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 Park ○ Akaroa ○ Christchurch – Canterbury ○ Central Otago ○ Doubtful Sound ○ Dunedin ○ Fiordland ○ Fiordland National Park ○ Glacier Country ○ Golden Bay ○ Kahurangi National Park ○ Kaikoura ○ Marlborough ○ Mount Cook & Mackenzie ○ Mt Aspiring National Park ○ Nelson Tasman ○ Queenstown ○ Southland ○ Te Anau ○ Waitaki & Oamaru ○ Wanaka ○ West Coast ○ Stewart Island ○ Chatham 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

Milford Sound tour from Queenstown – Coach, Cruise, Fly Tour

Queenstown Boat Cruises & Water Activities Family & Kids Nature Scenic Flights

Flexible

Price:Included In Your Tour Package

Milford Sound tour from Queenstown Embark on the ultimate Milford Sound adventure with the Coach, Cruise, and Fly Tour. This full-day experience combines a scenic coach journey through Fiordland National Park, a relaxing cruise on the iconic Milford Sound, and a breathtaking flight back to Queenstown. Perfect for travelers seeking the best views by land,

Glacier Express Heli Flight: A Majestic Alpine Experience

Central Queenstown Scenic Flights

50 minutes

Price:Included In Your Tour Package

The Ultimate Alpine Escape: Your Glacier Express Heli Flight Guide If you want to experience the true majesty of the Southern Alps, the Glacier Express Heli Flight offers an elite 50-minute aerial journey that you will never forget. Specifically, this tour whisks you away from Queenstown to soar over iconic landmarks like The Remarkables, Lake

Scenic Helicopter Flight: An Unforgettable Aerial Adventure

Queenstown Scenic Flights

20 minutes

Price:Included In Your Tour Package

Soar Above the Alps: Your Essential Scenic Helicopter Flight Guide If you want to appreciate the grandeur of New Zealand truly, a Scenic Helicopter Flight offers the most breathtaking perspective of Queenstown’s dramatic landscapes. Specifically, this 20-minute aerial adventure whisks you away from the crowds to marvel at towering mountain ranges and crystal-clear lakes. While

Skippers Canyon Scenic Jet Boat Tour: A Thrilling Blend of Adventure and History

Central Queenstown Active & Adventure Boat Cruises & Water Activities

3 hours

Price:Included In Your Tour Package

Explore the stunning landscapes and gold-mining history of Skippers Canyon with the Scenic Jet Boat Tour. This tour combines a guided journey through one of New Zealand’s most breathtaking canyons with a high-speed jet boat ride on the Shotover River, offering a unique mix of adventure, history, and natural beauty. Tour Highlights: Guided Drive Through

Heli-Snowmobiling Trip: An Ultimate Alpine Adventure

Central Queenstown Active & Adventure Off-road Driving

2.5 hours

Price:Included In Your Tour Package

Experience the Ultimate Winter Thrill: Your Heli-Snowmobiling Trip Guide If you crave a high-adrenaline escape, the Heli-Snowmobiling Trip offers an elite combination of scenic flight and off-road excitement. This exclusive 2.5-hour journey whisks you away from Queenstown into the pristine alpine wilderness of New Zealand’s Southern Alps. Specifically, you will reach remote, untouched snowfields that

Bike the Bridges Arrow River Trail – Supported Tour: A Scenic Cycling Adventure

Queenstown Cycling & Mountain Biking

Flexible

Price:Included In Your Tour Package

Pedal through the stunning landscapes of the Arrow River Trail on the Bike the Bridges Supported Tour. This self-guided cycling experience combines breathtaking scenery, historic landmarks, and expert support, making it ideal for riders of all levels. Cross iconic suspension bridges, ride along riverside trails, and explore the charming Arrowtown area at your own pace.

Queenstown Highlights Tour: Discover the Best of the Adventure Capital

Arrowtown City Tours

Flexible

Price:Included In Your Tour Package

Experience the charm and beauty of Queenstown with the Queenstown Highlights Tour. This guided journey showcases the town’s top attractions, scenic viewpoints, and hidden gems, making it perfect for first-time visitors or those with limited time to explore. Tour Highlights:  Panoramic Views: Visit breathtaking lookouts, including Bob’s Peak and Lake Wakatipu. Historic Sites: Explore Arrowtown,

Best of Queenstown Tour with Cruise: A Perfect Day of Scenic Beauty and Adventure

Arrowtown Boat Cruises & Water Activities Nature

4.5 hours

Price:Included In Your Tour Package

Discover the highlights of Queenstown in one incredible day with the Best of Queenstown Tour with Cruise. This comprehensive experience combines a guided exploration of Queenstown’s top attractions with a relaxing cruise on Lake Wakatipu. Ideal for first-time visitors and those looking to experience the best the region has to offer in a single day.

Around Arrowtown Tour: Explore History and Scenic Charm

Arrowtown Heritage & Art City Tours

4 hours

Price:Included In Your Tour Package

Step back in time and discover the historic charm of Arrowtown on the Around Arrowtown Tour. This guided experience takes you through the quaint streets of this former gold-mining settlement, offering insights into its rich history, vibrant culture, and picturesque landscapes. Perfect for history buffs, photographers, and anyone looking to experience the beauty of this

Family Adventures Raft Trip: A Fun-Filled Water Adventure for All Ages

Central Queenstown Active & Adventure Boat Cruises & Water Activities

5 hours

Price:Included In Your Tour Package

Make Memories on the Water: The Ultimate Family Adventures Raft Trip If you want the perfect way to introduce your children to the great outdoors, you must book the Family Adventures Raft Trip on the scenic Kawarau River. Specifically, our team tailors this tour for families with children as young as three and first-time rafters