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

Franz Josef Nature Tour Guided Walk: New Zealand’s Rainforest and Glaciers

Franz Josef, West Coast Nature Walking & Hiking

3 hours

Price:Included In Your Tour Package

The Franz Josef Nature Tour Guided Walk offers an immersive experience through the lush rainforest and dramatic landscapes of Franz Josef Glacier Valley. This guided tour is perfect for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts who want to learn about the unique geology, wildlife, and cultural history of this iconic region. With expert guides leading the

Lake Mapourika Kayaking & Walk Tour

Lake Mapourika, West Coast Boat Cruises & Water Activities Family & Kids

4 hours

Price:Included In Your Tour Package

Lake Mapourika Kayaking The Kayak & Walk Tour offers the perfect blend of water-based exploration and on-foot discovery in New Zealand’s stunning natural environment. Paddle across serene waterways, surrounded by lush forests and dramatic landscapes, then embark on a guided walk through native bush, discovering hidden gems along the way. Perfect for nature lovers, adventure

Franz Josef Glacier Heli-Hike: New Zealand’s Iconic Glacier

Franz Josef Glacier Nature Walking & Hiking

4 hours

Price:Included In Your Tour Package

The Franz Josef Glacier Heli-Hike combines the thrill of a scenic helicopter ride with an unforgettable guided hike on the breathtaking Franz Josef Glacier. Explore the glacier’s stunning ice formations, deep crevasses, and blue ice caves as you walk across this incredible natural wonder. Perfect for adventurers and nature enthusiasts, this tour provides an up-close

Scenic Cruise: New Zealand’s Stunning Waterways and Coastal Beauty

Lake Mapourika Boat Cruises & Water Activities

2 hours

Price:Included In Your Tour Package

The Scenic Cruise offers a relaxing and picturesque journey through some of New Zealand’s most breathtaking waterways and coastlines. Perfect for families, couples, and nature enthusiasts, this tour lets you unwind while taking in panoramic views of rugged cliffs, tranquil bays, and pristine waters. Whether cruising a lake, river, or along the coastline, this experience

Fox Glacier Valley E-Bike and Hike

Fox Glacier Valley Cycling & Mountain Biking Walking & Hiking

Bike 1 hour / Walk 2.5–3 hours

Price:Included In Your Tour Package

The Fox Glacier Valley E-Bike and Hike tour combines the thrill of riding an electric bike with the wonder of hiking through one of New Zealand’s most stunning glacier valleys. This guided adventure takes you along quiet trails, through lush rainforests, and right to the edge of the mighty Fox Glacier. Perfect for adventure seekers,

Flying Fox: Helihike – A Thrilling Adventure Across New Zealand’s Wild Landscapes

Fox Glacier Active & Adventure Nature Walking & Hiking

3 to 4 hours

Price:Included In Your Tour Package

Fox Glacier Heli Hike – The Ultimate New Zealand Glacier Adventure The Fox Glacier heli hike—also known as The Flying Fox: Helihike—is one of New Zealand’s most unforgettable alpine experiences. This unique adventure combines a breathtaking scenic helicopter flight with a guided hike across the dramatic ice formations of Fox Glacier. Perfect for adventure seekers,

Village and Bays Tour: Discover the Stewart Island ‘s Coastal Charm

Oban Visitor Centre Red Shed, Stewart Island Wildlife & Beaches Nature

90 minutes

Price:Included In Your Tour Package

The Village and Bays Tour is a scenic journey that takes you through picturesque villages, stunning coastal bays, and vibrant local communities. Immerse yourself in New Zealand’s unique blend of natural beauty and cultural charm as you explore hidden gems, enjoy panoramic views, and learn about the history and lifestyle of the area. This tour

Ulva Island Bird Sanctuary Half-Day Guided Walk

Ulva Island Bird Sanctuary, Southland Active & Adventure

3.5-4 hours

Price:Included In Your Tour Package

The Ulva Island Bird Sanctuary Half-Day Guided Walk is an unforgettable experience that immerses you in one of New Zealand’s most pristine and predator-free sanctuaries. Located off the coast of Stewart Island, Ulva Island is a haven for rare and endangered bird species, native plants, and unique wildlife. This guided walk provides fascinating insights into

Evening Kiwi Spotting Tour: New Zealand’s Iconic Nighttime Birdlife

Oban township, Stewart Island Wildlife & Beaches

2-3 hours

Price:Included In Your Tour Package

The Evening Kiwi Spotting Tour offers a unique and exciting opportunity to see New Zealand’s iconic kiwi bird in its natural habitat. This guided night tour takes you through lush native forests and conservation areas, giving you the chance to spot these elusive nocturnal creatures in the wild. Perfect for wildlife enthusiasts, photographers, and anyone

Dig This – Mini Dig 30 Minutes: Thrill of Operating Heavy Machinery

Southland & Stewart Island Motorsport

30 Minutes

Price:Included In Your Tour Package

The Dig This – Mini Dig 30 Minutes experience offers an exciting hands-on opportunity to operate real heavy machinery, including a mini excavator or bulldozer, in a safe and controlled environment. Located in Southland, this unique adventure is perfect for thrill-seekers, machinery enthusiasts, or anyone looking to try something new and exhilarating. Whether you’re digging,