South Island of New Zealand

New Zealand’s South Island hosts the purest natural landscapes you’ll ever experience. From wildlife to wineries, glacial valleys to star-filled skies, the South Island offers adventure in all its forms. Choose to explore just one region, or road trip from Picton all the way down to Bluff. No matter which destinations you choose to explore on this long, mountainous island, you’ll be constantly open-mouthed before the incredible scenery.

The best places to visit in the South Island
Every region in the South Island has its own unique highlights. Some of the most popular places

Christchurch
The city of Christchurch is a vibrant urban centre with startling street art and a thriving foodie scene.

Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park
Get a glimpse of Mount Cook’s peak across the icy blue water of Lake Pukaki, before heading up to the national park to walk the Hooker Valley Track.

Lake Tekapo
With deep blue water and a fringe of purple lupins, Lake Tekapo is an idyllic sight.

Milford Sound
Cruise, kayak, or hike in Milford Sound, a dramatic fiord that will ignite your imagination.

Kaikōura
Spot whales, seals and dolphins in the seaside village of Kaikōura.

Fox and Franz Josef glaciers
On the West Coast of the South Island, you’ll find mighty glaciers descending through rainforest into the sea.