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

Skydive Wanaka: Experience the Ultimate Adventure

Wanaka Active & Adventure

Flexible

Price:Included in your tour package

Soar above the breathtaking landscapes of New Zealand with Skydive Wanaka, the ultimate adventure for thrill-seekers and nature lovers alike. Feel the adrenaline rush as you free fall from the sky, taking in unparalleled views of Wanaka’s pristine lakes, snow-capped mountains, and lush valleys. Experience Overview Location: Wanaka, Central Otago, New Zealand Duration: Flexible Jump

Puzzling World: A Unique Experience in Wanaka

Wanaka-Luggate Family & Kids

Flexible

Price:Included In Your Tour Package

Located in the stunning Central Otago region, Puzzling World is a one-of-a-kind attraction that promises fun, laughter, and amazement for all ages. Whether you’re a puzzle enthusiast, an adventurer, or simply looking for something extraordinary, this destination has something for everyone. Step Into the World of Optical Illusions Prepare to have your perception challenged in

Around Arrowtown Tour

Arrowtown Nature City Tours Family & Kids

4 Hours

Price:Included In Your Tour Package

Embark on a captivating 4-hour small group tour that showcases the stunning landscapes and rich history of Queenstown and the surrounding Central Otago region, guided by a local expert who brings the area’s stories to life. Scenic Highlights Wakatipu Lookout Begin your journey with a breathtaking visit to the Wakatipu lookout, offering one of the

Franz Josef Nature Tour Guided Walk

Franz Josef Glacier Nature Walking & Hiking

4 hours

Cities: Westland

Price:Included In Your Tour Package

Walking Through Wonderland: The Franz Josef Guided Walk Experience If you are traveling along New Zealand’s rugged West Coast, a Franz Josef Guided Walk is an experience you simply cannot skip. This region is home to one of the world’s most unique natural wonders: a low-lying glacier that sits nestled deep within a temperate rainforest.

Lake Te Anau Cruise

Te Anau Boat Cruises & Water Activities Family & Kids Nature Walking & Hiking Wildlife & Beaches

3 hours

Price:Included In Your Tour Package

Experience Fiordland on a Luxury Lake Te Anau Cruise Discover the untouched beauty of the South Island from a unique perspective. A Lake Te Anau cruise offers a rare opportunity and a huge chance to sail across deep, glacial waters nestled between towering, untouched mountains. As you venture into the tranquil South Fiord, the serenity

Lake Mapourika Kayaking

Lake Mapourika Active & Adventure Boat Cruises & Water Activities

3 hours

Price:Included in your tour package

The Ultimate Guide to a Lake Mapourika Kayak Adventure A Lake Mapourika kayak tour is undoubtedly the best way to see New Zealand’s rugged West Coast. Located just seven minutes north of Franz Josef, this lake offers a serene escape into a prehistoric landscape. In fact, it is the largest lake in the region, yet

Lake Mapourika Scenic Cruise

Lake Mapourika Boat Cruises & Water Activities

2 hours

Price:Included in your tour package

Discover the Mirror Beauty of Lake Mapourika New Zealand Lake Mapourika New Zealand is the largest and most stunning mirror lake in the South Island’s southwest region. Located just seven minutes from the Franz Josef township, this kettle lake offers a peaceful escape into nature. Because the surrounding mountain peaks shield the water from the

Quad Biking – Franz Josef Glacier Village

Franz Josef Glacier Village, New Zealand Active & Adventure Family & Kids Off-road Driving

2 hours

Price:Included in your tour package

Adventure Awaits: The Ultimate Franz Josef Quad Bike Tour   If you want an adrenaline-packed way to explore the West Coast, a franz josef quad bike tour is the perfect choice. Located in the remote Franz Josef Glacier Village, this journey offers a beautiful backdrop of the majestic Southern Alps. Specifically, you will experience a

Franz Josef Glacier Helicopter Hike

The Franz Josef Glacier Active & Adventure Scenic Flights Walking & Hiking

4 hours

Price:Included in your tour package

The Ultimate Adventure: The Franz Josef Glacier Helicopter Hike Are you ready for a once-in-a-lifetime experience in the heart of New Zealand’s West Coast? The Franz Josef glacier helicopter hike stands out as one of the most thrilling ways to explore a world-class natural wonder. This journey combines a scenic flight with a guided trek

Mount Cook Ultimate Alpine Experience Combo – Heli & Ski Plane

Mt Cook Airport Active & Adventure Scenic Flights

45 minutes

Price:Included in your tour package

The Peak of Adventure: Mount Cook Ultimate Alpine Experience If you want the most comprehensive view of New Zealand’s highest peaks, the Mount Cook Ultimate Alpine Experience is the perfect choice. This unique adventure allows you to fly in both a helicopter and a ski plane. Specifically, you will depart from the Mt. Cook Airport,