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

Opuke Thermal Pools & Spa

35 Mount Hutt Station Road, Methven 7782 Hot Pools & Health Spas

Half day

Price:Included In Your Tour Package

Discover Serenity: A Guide to Opuke Thermal Pools in Methven Tucked away in the heart of the Canterbury Plains, just a scenic one-hour drive from Christchurch, lies a wellness destination that is redefining sustainable relaxation. Opuke Thermal Pools offers a world-class spa experience that harmonizes luxury with the rugged beauty of the Southern Alps. Because

Waipara Wine Trail with Lunch

Pickup and drop off from central Christchurch accommodation Food & Wine

5 hours

Price:Included In Your Tour Package

Discover the Flavors of the Waipara Wine Trail If you are looking for a sophisticated escape from the city, the Waipara Wine Trail is an essential experience. Located just a 45-minute drive north of Christchurch, this region has quickly become a “hidden gem” for international wine lovers. Because the Waipara Valley enjoys a unique microclimate—protected

Hanmer Springs Day Tour from Christchurch

Hanmer Springs Active & Adventure

9 hours

Price:Included In Your Tour Package

Experience the Magic of Hanmer Springs New Zealand A day trip to Hanmer Springs New Zealand is the perfect way to combine high-octane adventure with total relaxation. Your journey begins with a scenic drive from Christchurch, heading north into the rugged heart of Hurunui. As you travel, you will pass through the breathtaking Waiau River

Mt Cook & Tekapo Tour from Christchurch

Church of the Good Shepherd, Lake Tekapo Nature Family & Kids

12 hours

Price:Included In Your Tour Package

Experience the Majesty of the Southern Alps: Your Ultimate Mt Cook Tour If you want to witness the true heart of New Zealand’s South Island, you must book a comprehensive Mt Cook Tour. This fully-guided day trip from Christchurch takes you through some of the most spectacular landscapes on Earth. To begin with, you will

Lord of the Rings Edoras Tour Christchurch

Mount Sunday Track Family & Kids Home of Middle‑earth™ Off-road Driving Active & Adventure

8,5 hours

Price:Included In Your Tour Package

4WD Adventure Tour & Guided Walk   Join an exciting Lord of the Rings Edoras Tour led by an informative and entertaining guide. You’ll cross several small streams and take a short guided walk to reach the summit of Mt Sunday. Lord of the Rings During the Lord of the Rings Edoras Tour, you’ll see

Waka Paddle Avon River Christchurch

Avon River in central Christchurch Boat Cruises & Water Activities

45 minutes

Price:Included In Your Tour Package

Explore New Zealand Heritage with a Waka Paddle Christchurch Experience Are you looking for a unique way to explore the “Garden City”? If so, you should discover the river from a completely different perspective. The Waka Paddle Christchurch experience offers a meaningful connection to New Zealand’s past. While many visitors simply walk the city streets,

New Zealand Hot Air Balloon Flight

pickup/drop off from Christchurch accommodation Active & Adventure

1 hour flight

Price:Included In Your Tour Package

  New Zealand Hot Air Balloon Flight: Escape to a world of peace and tranquility with hot air ballooning, a magical experience that is both romantic and exciting. Canterbury Plains Hot Air Ballooning   Float effortlessly over the ever-changing landscape of Canterbury Plains, enjoying breathtaking views from the Southern Alps to the Pacific Ocean. After

Christchurch Tramway Restaurant

Christchurch City Food & Wine

-

Price:Included in your tour package

Savor the City: A Guide to the Christchurch Tramway Restaurant Are you looking for a dining experience that stands out from the rest? If so, you should consider a seat aboard the most unique eatery in New Zealand. The Christchurch Tramway Restaurant offers a perfect blend of history, elegance, and world-class service. While many people

Willowbank Wildlife Reserve, Christchurch

Harewood - 12 minutes from Christchurch Airport Wildlife & Beaches

45 minutes

Price:Included in your tour package

Experience the Best of New Zealand: A Guide to Willowbank Wildlife Reserve If you want an authentic encounter with New Zealand’s unique natural heritage, you must visit Willowbank Wildlife Reserve. Located in Harewood, the reserve is incredibly accessible for travelers. It sits just 12 minutes from Christchurch Airport and roughly 25 minutes from the Christchurch

Dark Sky Experience Tekapo

Tekapo Heritage & Art Family & Kids

45 minutes

Price:Included In Your Tour Package

Explore the Universe: The Ultimate Dark Sky Experience Tekapo Are you ready to embark on a journey 13.8 billion years in the making? If so, you must visit the heart of the Mackenzie Basin for a world-class encounter with the cosmos. The Dark Sky Experience Tekapo offers a treat for the senses by bringing science