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

Time Tripper Underwater Cinematic Experience

Lake Wakatipu Boat Cruises & Water Activities Family & Kids

30 minutes

Price:Included In Your Tour Package

Journey Through Time: The Time Tripper Underwater Cinematic Experience If you want to discover the secrets hidden beneath the surface of Lake Wakatipu, the Time Tripper Underwater Cinematic Experience is a must-see. This unique attraction sits five meters below the lake level at Queenstown’s Main Town Pier. Specifically, it combines a state-of-the-art animated show with

Classic Wine Tour: Taste the Best of Central Otago

Central Otago Food & Wine

3.5 hours

Price:Included In Your Tour Package

Savor the world-renowned flavors of Central Otago’s wine region on the Classic Wine Tour. This guided experience takes you to some of the finest wineries in the area, offering tastings of premium wines, stunning vineyard views, and an in-depth look at the winemaking process. Perfect for wine enthusiasts and those seeking a relaxing day out,

Segway Queenstown Tour: Explore the City with Fun and Ease

Segway, Queenstown City Tours

2 hours

Price:Included In Your Tour Package

Discover the charm of Queenstown on a fun and eco-friendly Segway tour. Glide along the stunning shores of Lake Wakatipu, explore scenic trails, and uncover local landmarks with the guidance of a knowledgeable instructor. This activity offers a unique way to experience the beauty and history of Queenstown while enjoying a leisurely ride. Tour Highlights:

Kiwi Park Admission: Discover New Zealand’s Unique Wildlife

Queenstown Town Centre Nature Family & Kids

1.5 to 2 hours

Price:Included In Your Tour Package

Discover Native Treasures: Your Guide to Kiwi Park Admission If you want to meet New Zealand’s most famous residents without leaving the city, then a visit to Kiwi Park in Queenstown is a must. This family-friendly sanctuary sits nestled in the heart of the bustling town center. Specifically, it offers an up-close encounter with the

KJet 60-Minute Jet Boat Ride: Queenstown’s Ultimate Adventure

Kawarau River Boat Cruises & Water Activities

60 minutes

Price:Included In Your Tour Package

Experience the thrill of New Zealand’s most iconic jet boat ride with KJet. This 60-minute adventure takes you across three waterways, offering high-speed excitement, 360° spins, and stunning views of Queenstown’s natural beauty. Perfect for adrenaline junkies and families alike, this tour is a must-do for any visitor to the adventure capital of the world.

Original Onsen Exclusive Indoor Pool: Relax in Luxurious Privacy

Queenstown Hot Pools & Health Spas Family & Kids

Flexible

Price:Included In Your Tour Package

Onsen Hot Pools – Exclusive Indoor Onsen Experience in Queenstown Indulge in pure relaxation with the Original Onsen Exclusive Indoor Pool, one of Queenstown’s most iconic wellness experiences. Nestled among dramatic alpine scenery, this private retreat offers the perfect blend of tranquility, luxury, and breathtaking views. Whether you’re visiting as a couple, a family, or

Glenorchy Lord of the Rings 4WD Safari: Explore Middle-earth

Glenorchy Nature Off-road Driving

4.25 hours

Price:Included In Your Tour Package

Journey into Middle-earth: The Glenorchy Lord of the Rings 4WD Safari If you want to step inside the magic of the movies, the Glenorchy Lord of the Rings 4WD Safari offers the ultimate adventure. This immersive journey departs from Queenstown and follows one of New Zealand’s most scenic lakefront drives. Specifically, our guides take you

Routeburn Guided Walk Full Day: Explore New Zealand’s Majestic Wilderness

Routeburn track Walking & Hiking

10 hours with 7 hours walking

Price:Included In Your Tour Package

Immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of New Zealand’s Southern Alps with the Routeburn Guided Walk Full Day tour. This guided adventure takes you through one of the country’s most iconic Great Walks, offering stunning vistas, diverse flora and fauna, and unforgettable outdoor experiences. Perfect for hiking enthusiasts and nature lovers seeking a memorable day

Skydive Queenstown: The Ultimate Adrenaline Rush

Queenstown Active & Adventure

Flexible

Price:Included In Your Tour Package

Experience the thrill of freefall and the breathtaking beauty of Queenstown’s landscapes with a tandem skydive. Known as the adventure capital of the world, Queenstown offers skydivers unparalleled views of its majestic mountains, turquoise lakes, and rolling valleys. Tour Highlights: Freefall Thrill: Jump from heights of 9,000, 12,000, or 15,000 feet, reaching speeds of up

Dart River Wilderness Jet: A Scenic and Thrilling Journey

Glenorchy Boat Cruises & Water Activities

4.5 hours

Price:Included In Your Tour Package

Discover the natural beauty of the Dart River Valley with the Wilderness Jet, a breathtaking jet boat experience through the heart of New Zealand’s UNESCO World Heritage Area. This thrilling adventure combines speed, scenery, and storytelling, making it an unmissable Queenstown experience. Tour Highlights: High-Speed Jet Boat Ride: Glide across the crystal-clear waters of the