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

Dart River Funyak Adventure: Paddle Through Paradise

Glenorchy Active & Adventure Boat Cruises & Water Activities

9 hours

Price:Included In Your Tour Package

Experience the breathtaking beauty of the Dart River in Glenorchy with a unique and tranquil adventure. The Funyak tour combines an exhilarating jet boat ride with a serene paddle in inflatable kayaks (Funyaks) through untouched wilderness. Perfect for nature lovers and those seeking a mix of excitement and relaxation. Tour Highlights: Jet Boat Ride: Start

Kawarau River Jet to Raft (Grade 2-3): A Scenic and Thrilling Adventure

Central Queenstown Boat Cruises & Water Activities Active & Adventure Family & Kids

4.5 hours

Price:Included In Your Tour Package

Kawarau River Jet to Raft Combine the excitement of a jet boat ride with the adventure of white-water rafting on the stunning Kawarau River. This unique experience offers a mix of adrenaline-pumping action and scenic exploration, perfect for adventure enthusiasts of all levels. Kawarau River Tour Highlights: Jet Boat Ride: Start your journey with an

Shotover Jetboat Ride: The Ultimate Queenstown Thrill

Queenstown Active & Adventure Boat Cruises & Water Activities

25 minutes

Price:Included In Your Tour Package

Embark on the world-famous Shotover Jetboat ride, an exhilarating high-speed adventure through the dramatic Shotover River canyons. Known as the “World’s Most Exciting Jet Boat Ride,” this is a must-do experience for adrenaline seekers visiting Queenstown. Tour Highlights: High-Speed Thrills: Reach speeds of up to 90 km/h as you zoom through narrow canyons. 360° Spins:

Kawarau Bridge Bungy: The Original Bungy Jump Experience

Kawarau Bungy Centre Active & Adventure

Flexible

Price:Included In Your Tour Package

Take a leap of faith at the world’s first commercial bungy jumping site, the Kawarau Bridge. This iconic Queenstown activity is a must for adrenaline junkies and thrill-seekers, offering breathtaking views and an unforgettable rush of excitement. Tour Highlights: Historic Jump Location: Jump from the 43-meter Kawarau Bridge, the birthplace of commercial bungy jumping. Stunning

Essential Queenstown 4WD Tour + Shotover Jet Experience

Arrow River Boat Cruises & Water Activities

3 hours

Price:Included In Your Tour Package

Combine two iconic Queenstown adventures in one action-packed day! This tour offers the ultimate Queenstown experience, blending the thrills of a 4WD scenic tour with the excitement of the world-famous Shotover Jet boat ride. Perfect for those seeking both adventure and stunning landscapes. Tour Highlights: 4WD Scenic Tour: Ride through rugged off-road tracks in a

Walter Peak BBQ Lunch: Scenic Cruise & Gourmet Experience on TSS Earnslaw

Steamer Wharf Food & Wine Family & Kids

3.5 to 4 hours

Price:Included In Your Tour Package

Combine a scenic cruise aboard the historic TSS Earnslaw with a delicious BBQ lunch at Walter Peak High Country Farm. This experience perfectly combines relaxation, stunning scenery, and gourmet cuisine. Key Facts Duration 3.5 to 4 hours Departure Location Steamer Wharf, Queenstown, New Zealand. Highlights Enjoy a scenic journey across Lake Wakatipu aboard the vintage

Kawarau Bridge Bungy: The Ultimate Bungy Jumping Experience in New Zealand

Kawarau Bungy Centre Active & Adventure

Flexible

Price:Included In Your Tour Package

Experience the ultimate adrenaline rush at the world-famous Kawarau Bridge Bungy. As the birthplace of commercial bungy jumping, this iconic site offers a thrilling leap from a 43-meter bridge above the Kawarau River, making it a must-do adventure in New Zealand. Key Facts  Duration Flexible Departure Location Kawarau Bridge Bungy Centre, Gibbston Valley, New Zealand

Walter Peak Farm Excursion on TSS Earnslaw

Steamer Wharf Nature Family & Kids

3.5 hours

Price:Included In Your Tour Package

Walter Peak Farm Excursion Step back in time aboard the historic TSS Earnslaw for a delightful morning excursion to Walter Peak High Country Farm. Enjoy a scenic cruise across Lake Wakatipu and immerse yourself in authentic New Zealand farm life. Duration 3.5 hours Departure Location Steamer Wharf, Queenstown, New Zealand Highlights Scenic cruise aboard the

Skyline Gondola Ride, Buffet Dinner & Stargazing: A Perfect Evening Out

Queenstown Food & Wine City Tours

1 hour

Price:Included In Your Tour Package

Combine stunning views, a delightful dining experience, and the night sky wonder with the Skyline Gondola Ride, Buffet Dinner & Stargazing package. Ascend to breathtaking heights, indulge in a delicious evening meal at the top, and cap off your night by exploring the stars with expert guides. Duration 1 hour Departure Location Skyline Gondola Base

Skyline Gondola Ride & Buffet Dinner: A Perfect Evening Out

Skyline Gondola Base Station, Queenstown City Tours Food & Wine

Flexible

Price:Included In Your Tour Package

Combine stunning views and a delightful dining experience with the Skyline Gondola Ride & Buffet Dinner package. Ascend to breathtaking heights and indulge in a delicious evening meal at the top, overlooking Queenstown, Lake Wakatipu, and the Remarkables mountain range under a starlit sky. Departure Location Skyline Gondola Base Station, Queenstown, New Zealand Highlights Spectacular