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

Lakes Explorer Seaplane Flight

Te Anau Scenic Flights

Flexible

Price:Included In Your Tour Package

Take to the skies and experience the breathtaking beauty of Queenstown’s alpine lakes with the Lakes Explorer Seaplane Flight. This unforgettable adventure offers stunning aerial views of Lake Wakatipu, Lake Hawea, Lake Wanaka, and the surrounding Southern Alps. Perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers, this seaplane tour provides a unique way to explore Queenstown’s

Fiordland Great Walks 3-Day Package

Te Anau & Fiordland Active & Adventure

3 Days

Price:Included In Your Tour Package

The Fiordland Great Walks 3-Day Package offers an immersive hiking experience on three of New Zealand’s most renowned trails: the Milford Track, the Routeburn Track, and the Kepler Track. This guided multi-day adventure takes you through the breathtaking landscapes of Fiordland National Park, featuring lush rainforests, cascading waterfalls, alpine vistas, and serene lakes. This package

Te Anau Glowworm Caves Tour

Lake Te Anau Active & Adventure Nature

2 hours

Price:Included In Your Tour Package

Discover a Magical Underground World: The Te Anau Glowworm Caves Tour If you want to experience one of New Zealand’s most enchanting natural wonders, the Te Anau Glowworm Caves Tour is a must-do adventure. Located in the heart of Fiordland, this 2-hour journey transports you into a silent, shimmering underground cathedral. Specifically, you will travel

Dusky & Doubtful Sounds Heli Flight

Te Anau lakefront helicopter pad Scenic Flights

1hr, 45mins

Price:Included In Your Tour Package

Experience the Wild: The Ultimate Dusky & Doubtful Sounds Heli Flight If you want to witness the most remote corners of New Zealand, the Dusky & Doubtful Sounds Heli Flight offers an elite aerial journey into the heart of Fiordland National Park. This 1-hour and 45-minute exclusive tour provides a rare opportunity to see two

Doubtful Sound Overnight Cruise Ex-Te Anau

Te Anau Wildlife & Beaches

Flexible

Price:Included In Your Tour Package

The Doubtful Sound Overnight Cruise ex-Te Anau is the ultimate way to immerse yourself in the untouched beauty of Fiordland National Park. Departing from Te Anau, this serene overnight experience offers a blend of breathtaking scenery, wildlife encounters, and peaceful solitude on the pristine waters of Doubtful Sound. Stay aboard a comfortable vessel, explore the

Morning Tea Cruise: A Relaxing Start to Your Day on Lake Wakatipu

Lake Te Anau Walking & Hiking

3 hours

Price:Included In Your Tour Package

Start your day with a serene Morning Tea Cruise on the crystal-clear waters of Lake Wakatipu. Enjoy a leisurely cruise aboard a comfortable vessel, complemented by stunning alpine views and a selection of tea, coffee, and light refreshments. Perfect for travelers seeking a peaceful morning activity, this tour offers a blend of relaxation and scenic

Evening Champagne Cruise: A Luxurious Sunset Experience on Lake Wakatipu

Lake Te Anau Boat Cruises & Water Activities

1.5 hours

Price:Included In Your Tour Package

Indulge in an unforgettable evening on the tranquil waters of Lake Wakatipu with the Evening Champagne Cruise. This elegant experience combines breathtaking views of Queenstown’s iconic landscapes, a relaxing atmosphere, and a glass of champagne as the sun sets over the Southern Alps. Perfect for couples, groups, or special occasions, this tour offers a serene

Pure Wilderness Tour: Explore New Zealand’s Pristine Beauty

Central Te Anau Boat Cruises & Water Activities

2 hours.

Price:Included In Your Tour Package

Escape into the heart of New Zealand’s untouched landscapes with the Pure Wilderness Tour. This guided adventure takes you through serene forests, crystal-clear rivers, and breathtaking mountain views. Perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers, this tour offers a unique opportunity to connect with the natural world in one of New Zealand’s most beautiful regions.

Milford Sound Fly Back to Queenstown (One-Way)

Milford Sound terminal Scenic Flights

4 hours

Price:Included In Your Tour Package

Soar Above the Alps: The Milford Sound Fly Back to Queenstown Experience Skip the long drive and fly back to Queenstown with the Milford Sound Fly Back to Queenstown One-Way experience. This scenic flight offers breathtaking aerial views of Fiordland National Park’s dramatic landscapes, including snow-capped peaks, glacial valleys, and turquoise lakes. Perfect for saving

Doubtful Sound Overnight Cruise Ex-Queenstown

Lake Manapouri Boat Cruises & Water Activities

Flexible

Price:Included In Your Tour Package

The Doubtful Sound Overnight Cruise ex-Queenstown offers a unique, tranquil escape into the heart of Fiordland National Park. This overnight tour combines scenic coach travel, a peaceful cruise through the pristine waters of Doubtful Sound, and an unforgettable night on board a well-equipped boat. Surrounded by lush rainforests, towering mountains, and serene waters, this is