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

Ziplining – Zip & Drop: A Thrilling Adventure

Queenstown Ziplining Nature

Flexible

Price:Included In Your Tour Package

Embark on an adrenaline-packed journey with the Ziplining – Zip & Drop experience. Fly through the treetops and finish with an exhilarating vertical drop, all while surrounded by breathtaking natural scenery. Key Facts Duration Flexible Departure Location Adventure Base, New Zealand Highlights Glide through multiple ziplines, each offering unique views and challenges. Experience the ultimate

Skyline Gondola Ride + 3 Luge: A Must-Do Adventure

Queenstown Active & Adventure Nature

Flexible

Price:Included In Your Tour Package

Discover unparalleled views and a thrilling experience with the Skyline Gondola Ride + 3 Luge package. Ascend to breathtaking heights and enjoy panoramic vistas of Queenstown, Lake Wakatipu, and the Remarkables mountain range, followed by the excitement of three luge rides. Key Facts Duration Flexible Departure Location Skyline Gondola Base Station, Queenstown, New Zealand Highlights

Skyline Gondola Ride: A Must-Do Adventure

Skyline Gondola Base Station, Queenstown Active & Adventure

Flexible

Price:Included In Your Tour Package

Discover unparalleled views and a thrilling experience with the Skyline Gondola Ride. Ascend to breathtaking heights and enjoy panoramic vistas of Queenstown, Lake Wakatipu, and the Remarkables mountain range. Key Facts Duration Flexible Departure Location Skyline Gondola Base Station, Queenstown, New Zealand Highlights Spectacular views from one of the steepest cable car rides in the

Orchard Tour: A Taste of Wanaka & Central Otago

Central Otago Food & Wine

45 minutes

Price:Included In Your Tour Package

Discover the flavors of Wanaka and Central Otago with the Orchard Tour, a delightful journey through one of New Zealand’s premier fruit-growing regions. Explore lush orchards, learn about sustainable farming practices, and savor the region’s freshest produce. Tour Overview Location: Wanaka & Central Otago Duration: 45 minutes Activity Level: Easy – suitable for all ages

Highlands Motorsport Museum: A Celebration of Speed and History

Highlands Motorsport Park, Cromwell, Central Otago Museums Motorsport

Flexible

Price:Included In Your Tour Package

Discover the exhilarating world of motorsport at the Highlands Motorsport Museum, a must-visit destination for car enthusiasts and history buffs alike. Located in Cromwell, Central Otago, this museum offers an interactive journey through the evolution of motorsport, featuring iconic vehicles, engaging exhibits, and cutting-edge technology. Experience Overview Location: Highlands Motorsport Park, Cromwell, Central Otago Duration:

Goldfields Jet: 40-Minute Thrill Ride

Kawarau Gorge, Central Otago Active & Adventure Boat Cruises & Water Activities

40-minute

Price:Included In Your Tour Package

Experience the ultimate rush with the Goldfields Jet 40-Minute Experience. This adrenaline-pumping journey takes you through the spectacular Kawarau Gorge on a high-speed jet boat ride. Feel the excitement as you navigate the stunning landscapes of Central Otago, paired with thrilling spins and expert maneuvers. Tour Overview Location: Kawarau Gorge, Central Otago Duration: 40 minutes

Goldfields Experience: Relive New Zealand’s Gold Rush Heritage

Goldfields Mining Centre, Kawarau Gorge, Central Otago Heritage & Art City Tours Family & Kids

1 hour

Price:Included In Your Tour Package

Step back in time with the Goldfields Experience, an interactive tour that delves into the fascinating history of New Zealand’s gold rush era. Located in the heart of the scenic Kawarau Gorge, this tour offers hands-on activities and historical exploration, making it an unforgettable adventure for all ages. Tour Overview Location: Goldfields Mining Centre, Kawarau

Wanaka Nature Encounter: Discover the Beauty of Wanaka’s Wilderness

Wanaka lakeside Off-road Driving Active & Adventure

8 hours

Price:Included In Your Tour Package

Immerse yourself in the breathtaking landscapes and serene beauty of Wanaka with the Wanaka Nature Encounter. This guided experience combines exploration, education, and tranquility, offering an unforgettable journey through one of New Zealand’s most stunning natural regions. Tour Overview Duration: 8 hours Location: Lake Wanaka and surrounding wilderness Activity Level: Easy to moderate (suitable for

Wild Hills Safari: Explore Untamed Beauty in New Zealand’s Backcountry

West Wanaka Off-road Driving Wildlife & Beaches Nature

4 hours

Price:Included In Your Tour Package

Embark on the Wild Hills Safari and discover the rugged beauty of New Zealand’s rolling hills, untouched landscapes, and thriving wildlife. This immersive tour combines thrilling off-road adventure with serene moments in nature, making it an unforgettable experience for all types of explorers. Tour Overview Duration: 4 hours Location: Remote hill country regions Activity Level:

U-FLY Lake Wanaka Scenic Trial Flight: Soar Over Stunning Landscapes

Wanaka Airport, Lake Wanaka region Scenic Flights Active & Adventure

20 minutes

Price:Included In Your Tour Package

Take to the skies with the U-FLY Lake Wanaka Scenic Trial Flight and experience the thrill of flying a plane under expert guidance. This 20-minute introductory flight combines stunning aerial views of Lake Wanaka and its surrounding landscapes with the unforgettable experience of taking the controls of a light aircraft. Tour Overview Duration: 20 minutes