Walk beneath New Zealand’s highest mountain, climb to towering waterfalls and take a thrilling jet boat ride through narrow river canyons(opens in new window). An Alpine Lakes Journey in the South Island is packed with adventures you won’t find anywhere else.
CANTERBURY
Blue lakes, highest peak & night sky wonder
Today, set off for Lake Tekapo, where you can hike or bike alongside brilliant turquoise waters before discovering the world's largest Dark Sky Reserve(opens in new window), one of the best places in New Zealand to view the Southern Lights.
On the lake shores you'll see the beautiful Church of the Good Shepherd, where the altar window frames a perfect view of the Southern Alps beyond the lake.
CANTERBURY
Home of the highest mountains & longest glaciers
From Lake Tekapo head to Aoraki / Mount Cook, New Zealand's highest peak. Explore the area on an easy day walk, longer climb or guided ascent. View the spectacular Southern Alps from above on a scenic flight(opens in new window), or get up close to the ever-changing ice environment of the Tasman Glacier(opens in new window).
If you have some extra time, take a day to explore the Alps 2 Ocean cycle trail, a fun way to soak up the stunning mountain scenery. Stretching more than 300km, it's New Zealand's longest cycle trail. But with multiple access points, there's shorter rides for all abilities.
WANAKA
Lakeside town surrounded by epic outdoor adventures
Travel past turquoise lakes and rivers to the lakeside resort town of Wanaka. Set alongside the renown Mt Aspiring National Park, Wanaka is the ultimate outdoor utopia.
Hiking(opens in new window), biking both on and off road(opens in new window), water activities, airborne adventures(opens in new window); there's something for all, no matter your flavour of fun.
QUEENSTOWN
The adventure capital of New Zealand
From Wanaka head across to Queenstown, the adventure capital of New Zealand. Thrill yourself with a huge choice of adrenaline activities including jetboating, bungy jumping(opens in new window), white water rafting(opens in new window) and skydiving(opens in new window) – all guaranteed to get your blood pumping!
Getting around New Zealand is easy with familiar road signs and a great range of transport options available.
There are plenty of accommodation options for every budget and travel style.
Visit in spring or autumn to enjoy warm weather, lower prices and short queues.