South Island

Discover the Magic of South Island New Zealand

Welcome to the South Island—New Zealand’s crown jewel of natural beauty and adventure. From the snow-capped Southern Alps to the serene turquoise lakes, this region offers a breathtaking blend of landscapes that captivate every traveler. Whether you’re chasing adrenaline or seeking tranquility, the South Island delivers unforgettable experiences at every turn.

Why Choose the South Island?

The South Island is a dream destination for nature lovers, photographers, and explorers alike. It’s home to:
  • Towering mountain ranges like Aoraki/Mount Cook and the Remarkables
  • World-famous fiords, including Milford Sound and Doubtful Sound
  • Ancient glaciers such as Franz Josef and Fox Glacier
  • Golden beaches and lush forests in Abel Tasman and Kahurangi National Parks
  • Vibrant towns and cities like Queenstown, Dunedin, and Nelson
Each region offers its own unique charm, making the South Island ideal for both short getaways and extended road trips.

Flexible Day Tours & Custom Adventures 🚐

Whether you’re following one of our expertly crafted itineraries or building your own journey, the South Island is packed with optional day tours and activities to enrich your trip. Choose from:
  • Scenic train rides like the Coastal Pacific
  • Iconic hikes, including the Kepler Track and Pack Track
  • Glacier walks, cycle trails, and sunset beach cocktails
  • Wildlife encounters in Kaikoura and Stewart Island
  • Wine tasting in Marlborough and Central Otago
Our tours are designed to fit seamlessly into your schedule, with options for every pace and interest—from relaxed nature walks to high-energy excursions.  

South Island New Zealand: Things to Do

Abel Tasman National ParkAkaroaChristchurch – CanterburyCentral OtagoDoubtful SoundDunedinFiordlandFiordland National ParkGlacier CountryGolden BayKahurangi National ParkKaikouraMarlboroughMount Cook & MackenzieMt Aspiring National ParkNelson TasmanQueenstownSouthlandTe AnauWaitaki & OamaruWanakaWest CoastStewart IslandChatham Islands

BEST 26 South Island Tourist Attractions

BEST South Island Tourist Attractions

❤️ South Island Map & Trip Planner

To make planning effortless, we’ve integrated all major attractions into a smart Google Maps trip planner, organized geographically from north to south. This intuitive layout helps you visualize your route and optimize travel time, whether you’re driving solo or touring by coach or motorhome.

South Island tourist attractions in Google Maps

New Zealand South Island Map & Regions

South Island New Zealand Map

6 – 15 Day South Island Self Drive and Independent Coach Tour Packages

Find Your Perfect Activity

Mt Cook Day Tour

Queenstown Active & Adventure Walking & Hiking

12 hours

Price:Included In Your Tour Package

Join a small-group, fully guided day tour from Queenstown to the spectacular Aoraki / Mt Cook day tour at National Park, home to New Zealand’s highest peak. Travel through the dramatic Kawarau Gorge, passing striking blue glacial lakes and scenic valleys before reaching an awe-inspiring alpine landscape of ice, rock, and soaring mountains. Enjoy up

Milford Sound Coach & Cruise ex Queenstown

Queenstown Nature Boat Cruises & Water Activities Family & Kids

12 hours

Price:Included In Your Tour Package

Experience the Ultimate Milford Sound Cruise Tour from Queenstown First, are you ready to discover one of New Zealand’s most spectacular natural wonders? If so, embarking on a Milford Sound Cruise tour is an absolute must. Indeed, we invite you to leave the hassle behind and join us for a comprehensive journey where the travel

Skyline Gondola Ride with Buffet Dinner

Queenstown Active & Adventure

Flexible

Price:Included In Your Tour Package

Elevate Your Evening: The Ultimate Skyline Gondola Ride and Buffet Dinner First, are you looking for the absolute best evening activity to crown your New Zealand vacation? If so, you must experience the famous Skyline Gondola Ride. Indeed, this incredible adventure effortlessly elevates your trip to new heights. Consequently, you will capture stunning memories that

Queenstown Highlights Tour

Queenstown Active & Adventure

Flexible

Price:Included In Your Tour Package

Discover the Ultimate Morning Adventure: The Best Queenstown Highlights Tour First, are you searching for the perfect way to spend your morning in New Zealand? If so, our action-packed Queenstown Highlights tour offers the ultimate solution. Indeed, you can experience the absolute best of the region in one affordable, unforgettable trip. Consequently, you will maximize

Coastal Pacific Train New Zealand

Christchurch Rail Journeys Family & Kids

5 hours 20 minutes

Price:Included in your tour package

Coastal Pacific Train – A Scenic Masterpiece of New Zealand’s South Island If you’re dreaming of a journey where snow-capped mountains meet the sea, where vineyards roll into rugged coastlines, and where seals sunbathe beside your window, look no further than the Coastal Pacific Train. This iconic rail experience runs between Picton and Christchurch, tracing

Hiking the Pack Track

Pack Track, West Coast Active & Adventure Walking & Hiking

4-6 hours

Price:Included In Your Tour Package

Discover a Hidden Gem: The Legendary Pack Track New Zealand First, are you searching for an unforgettable hiking experience tucked away from the crowded tourist hotspots? If so, you must explore the lush rainforests and rugged coastline of the West Coast. Specifically, deep within Paparoa National Park lies a route steeped in rich history and

Franz Josef Glacier

West Coast of South Island Walking & Hiking

2-3 hours

Price:Included In Your Tour Package

Discover the Frozen Wonder: Your Guide to a Franz Josef Glacier Tour The Franz Josef Glacier is a magnificent natural wonder nestled within a lush temperate rainforest. As one of New Zealand’s most accessible glaciers, it offers visitors a truly unique opportunity to witness glacial activity up close. Whether you are an avid hiker or

Nelson Lakes (Backcountry Adventure)

Nelson Active & Adventure Walking & Hiking

4-6 hours

Price:Included In Your Tour Package

A Clear Guide to Hiking Nelson Lakes National Park If you are looking for an authentic alpine experience, stepping into the heart of Nelson Lakes National Park offers a serene mountain getaway. This guide breaks down exactly what you need to know about hiking to the beautiful Angelus Hut. It ensures you have a clear

Lake Rotoiti – Nelson Lakes

Nelson Lakes Nature Boat Cruises & Water Activities Walking & Hiking

4-6 hours

Price:Included In Your Tour Package

Discover the Ultimate Comfort and Tranquility at Lake Rotoiti First, are you ready to escape the stress of daily life and discover a truly serene getaway? If so, you must experience the absolute tranquility of Lake Rotoiti. Specifically, this gorgeous destination sits perfectly within the breathtaking Nelson Lakes National Park. As a result, it offers

Queenstown Cycle Trail

Queenstown Active & Adventure Cycling & Mountain Biking Walking & Hiking Family & Kids

1.5 hours

Price:Included In Your Tour Package

Rolling Through Paradise: A Guide to the Queenstown Cycle Trail If you are looking for the perfect way to explore the South Island’s stunning landscapes, the Queenstown Cycle Trail offers an unforgettable experience. This network of paths connects historic towns, turquoise lakes, and world-famous vineyards. Consequently, it has become a “must-do” for travelers who want