Experience New Zealand's highest peak and explore the only castle in the country.
The South Island has some of the purest natural landscapes you’ll ever experience. Make sure you add these experiences to your trip around the South Island.
Experience the beauty of Aoraki/Mount Cook on foot. Wander the easy Hooker Valley Track, or choose from other formed and well-marked tracks which begin near Aoraki/Mount Cook Village. Enjoy a birds-eye view of the area from the air on a scenic flight or go on a boat trip with Glacier Explorers on the only accessible glacial lake with icebergs in the world. The Hooker Valley Track gives you stunning views of the first rays of the morning sun creeping over the Southern Alps and New Zealand's highest peak.
Stewart Island is home to New Zealand's largest and most diverse bird population. Here, you can go birdwatching and see kākā, albatross, penguins, weka and even kiwi. With over 240 kilometres of walking tracks, including one of New Zealand's Great Walks. You can explore the beaches and rainforests at your own pace or pick from one of the many tour companies and discover the island's hidden gems.
Located at the top of the South Island, Marlborough Sounds boasts 1,500 kilometres of New Zealand coastline. Home to secluded bays, historic sites, marine reserves and precious island sanctuaries which foster kiwi and other native species. Cruise or kayak your way through 'The Sounds', spotting the dolphins and birdlife along the way. Starting at Ship Cove, walk or cycle bush clad ridgelines to admire the view from the Queen Charlotte Track.
Soak up the creative vibe of Christchurch before you hit the road on an epic South Island journey. New Zealand's home of street art, and as you walk the streets of Christchurch and admire ever-evolving murals in the city you'll come to love this great city. With stunning art such as the Riverside Mural, Kaitaki in the YMCA Building and Organic Matters in Lichfield street, creativity meets you at every turn and corner.
The stunning lakeside resort of Queenstown is the adventure capital of the world. From iconic bungy jumping, jet boating, to quad biking, white water rafting, river surfing, sky diving and canyon swings...there is something for the adventurous at heart and those who want to challenge themselves to something new. Are you brave enough to try these adventure activities?
From soaring mountains to tranquil river flats, glaciers and turquoise lakes, exploring the Mount Aspiring National Park wilderness is an unforgettable experience. Just an hour's drive from Wānaka, it boasts plenty of activities for outdoor enthusiasts; from walking to jet boating and scenic flights. Choosing where to start is the hardest part!
Located 33 kilometres from Hokitika on the West Coast, The Hokitika Gorge is one of those places that look as good in photos as in real life. The vivid turquoise water surrounded by lush native bush looks too good to be true and is well worth a visit. Take a tour to access some unique and hidden locations with Hokitika Gorge Tours or Explore West Coast.
The sheltered bays of Abel Tasman National Park are perfect for sailing or kayaking, with ample opportunity to see seals and dolphins which regularly play in the crystal clear waters. If you prefer to explore by land, the park is a great place to walk. Hike one of the Great Walks, the Abel Tasman Coastal Track and follow the coastline through native bush, past limestone cliffs and along golden beaches.
