new zealand tour south island

New Zealand South Island Tours - Self Drive, Bus & Coach

Explore iconic South Island New Zealand with these New Zealand South Island tours. From Nelson and Abel Tasman National Park to Franz & Fox Glacier. Wanaka, Queenstown, Milford & Doubtful Sounds, Dunedin, Stewart Island, Mt Cook National Park, Christchurch, Akaroa and Kaikoura we have a South Island New Zealand tour that suits you. Our range of New Zealand South Island Tours can be customised to suit you perfectly. With hundreds of accommodation and activity options we can tailor-make the perfect South Island itinerary.

Train, Fiord and Glacier

Duration: 6 days Christchurch to Christchurch

• Hotel 3 star
• Independent tour (bus & coach)

Spoil yourself with a New Zealand tour to a beautiful fiord, stunning glacier and finish with one of the best scenic rail routes of New Zealand's South Island. This vacation really is fantastic if you want to see some unique highlights in a short time frame. Contact us if you wish to alter this plan - we can design your holiday specifically for your needs!

• Viewed 546 times in the last 7 days

price pp from

twin share/double

Highlights of the Deep South

Duration: 4 days Christchurch to Christchurch

• Hotel 4 star

Enjoy a 4 day adventure which starts and finishes in Christchurch. Staying in 4 star accommodation you can be assured after your days of sight seeing you can come back and relax in luxury! Highlights include: The world famous Tranz Alpine Scenic Train, The wild West Coast, Visit Franz Josef Glacier, Lakes Wanaka and Hawea, the Gibbston Valley, Queenstown, Milford Sound and Mt Cook National Park.

• Viewed 702 times in the last 7 days

Southern Highlights with Milford Sound

Duration: 5 days Christchurch to Christchurch

Enjoy 5 days exploring New Zealand's South Island with this excellent independent touring itinerary. Journey from Christchurch in a loop around the South Island. Cruise through Milford Sound, visit Mt. Cook National Park, explore the West Coast glaciers, and travel on the TranzAlpine scenic train.

• Viewed 1265 times in the last 7 days

6 day South Island Encounter

Duration: 6 days Queenstown to Queenstown

A 6 day introduction to the South Island including Mt Cook National Park, Christchurch, Milford Sound and the West Coast Glaciers.  Highlights are the renowned TranzAlpine Scenic Train journey and the Milford Sound Nature Cruise.

• Viewed 877 times in the last 7 days

West Coast Getaway with TranzAlpine

Duration: 2 days Christchurch to Queenstown

Highlights of this tour include, the TranzAlpine Train, Queenstown and Franz Josef.

• Viewed 867 times in the last 7 days

10 Day Southern Icons Adventure

Duration: 10 days Christchurch to Christchurch

This 10 day is one of our most popular, taking in the best of the South Island. With a great balance of included activities and free time, plus of course the must see locations you get to experience.

• Viewed 667 times in the last 7 days

6 day Queenstown, Milford Sound and Glacier Highlights

Starting and finishing Christchurch this tour visits Mt Cook National Park, Queenstown, Fiordland, Milford Sound and the West Coast Glaciers before taking the TranzAlpine Scenic Train journey across the Southern Alps.

• Viewed 950 times in the last 7 days

4 day Glaciers, Queenstown and Milford Sound Highlights

The South Island of New Zealand is home to some of the world's most breathtaking scenery! This 4 day tour starting and finishing in Christchurch is from the comfort a coach, so you can sit back and take it all in.

• Viewed 565 times in the last 7 days

Was NZD$3,000

10 day Glaciers and Overnight Fiordland

Starting in Christchurch cross the Southern Alps on board the Tranz Alpine train. Explore the West Coast Glaciers before heading south to Queenstown. Venture into Milford Sound for an incredible overnight experience. The World Heritage area of Mt Cook National Park is also a highlight.

• Viewed 441 times in the last 7 days

Southern Scenic Wonders

This classic 9 day tour introduces you to Mt Cook National Park, Queenstown. Fiordland, Milford Sound and the West Coast Glaciers and includes the Tranz Alpine Scenic Train journey.

• Viewed 552 times in the last 7 days

Was NZD$4,000

West Coast Escape with TranzAlpine

Highlights include: The world famous Tranz Alpine Scenic Train • The wild West Coast • Visit Franz Josef Glacier •  Lakes Wanaka and Hawea • the Gibbston Valley • Queenstown

• Viewed 424 times in the last 7 days

Nearly all our guests customise our tour ideas. That's what we do! Our expert team of New Zealand specialists can design a holiday itinerary to suit you perfectly. A tailor made package can be created for you in no time and doesn't cost you any more than one of our 'off the shelf' ideas. So get in touch with the team today to start your plans.

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New Zealand South Island Tours & Trips

Fuel your inner adrenaline-junkie in Queenstown , cruise on the tranquil waters of Milford Sound, or trek up the icy slopes of the mighty Franz Josef Glacier , spark your sense of adventure with a New Zealand South Island tour. From peaceful walks on the Routeburn Track to the exquisite crushed grapes of Marlborough , you'll soon discover why NZ is called the Adventure Capital of the World.

190 New Zealand South Island tour packages with 1,988 reviews

• Christmas & New Year

New Zealand: South Island Encompassed

Worth the price, great itinerary. Summer made sure we have alternative options and activities.

• Sightseeing

Southern Voyager

The attractions were amazing! Good experiences!

New Zealand South Island Express

Our guide James took great care of us..Seen great sights!

• Hiking & Trekking

Queenstown Southern Loop

The van had a broken seat belt attachment with a sharp edge which ruined a down jacket I had bought for the trip.

• In-depth Cultural

Premium New Zealand South Island

Premium New Zealand Encompassed (32 destinations)

Awesome tour of the south. The southern part of the tour was epic every single day.

New Zealand Journey National Geographic Journeys

The trip fulfilled my expectations; a good introduction to New Zealand, including both North and South islands.

NZ Adventure South

Great value overall, might recommend only spending one night in Tekapo as there is very little night life.

New Zealand: Sweet As South (Westbound, 9 Days)

Great experience for this tour.. would rate this as 5stars.. made new friends along the way

• €100 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

NZ Adventure 17 Day

The tour was amazing! It was organised so well, while still enabling us to have our own time and do our own activities.

South Island Lick Tour

We visited the most scenic parts of South Island. It was a well organized tour and the Tour is unforgettable.

• €75 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

New Zealand – South Island Multisport

The itinerary, guide's knowledge and organization were very good. Our interests during these activities were also not that of the other travelers.

• Mountain Hikes

Classic South Island Adventure

The activities were fun and extremely well-planned, the scenery was stunning, and the whole thing was just wonderful.

• Wine tasting

Ultimate South Island Adventure

Well organized trip with great guides that hit many of the highlights of the South Island.

What people love about New Zealand South Island Tours

Excellent tour. Definitely recommend

One of the best experiences of my life, made possible by the incredibly talented and charismatic Daisy! This was well organized with all of the logistics taken care of for you while having the freedom to pick what activities interest you most. The group setting was fun and a nice bonding expensive of people from around the world. Some of the hostel stays were great, some were just ok, but all were clean and had the essentials.

Great tour! We got to see so many places in such a short amount of time, and I had a great time. Made some friends during the whole time! Will be heading to see the North Island next year! I’m already looking forward to exploring! ??

Top operators

"Excellent tour. Definitely recommend

G Adventures is an expert in:

"Tom and Robbie both were amazing tour guides. The big south was 10 out of 10 experience. Weather definitely will play a big role in your activities. The flexibility of the guides makes the trip free more like a family and friends on holiday. It was so an illuminating experience with everyone that came. 20 April - 3 May best weather!! First week we had 18 people and the next week, 7.

Wild Kiwi is an expert in:

"Although Rod, the driver was very nice I felt that Intrepid had not organised the tour as well as previous Intrepid tours I have done. It was very overpriced for what was provided. The van had a broken seat belt attachment with a sharp edge which ruined a down jacket I had bought for the trip. I have asked Intrepid about it but received no reply.

Intrepid Travel is an expert in:

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New Zealand South Island Tours - over 60 great tour ideas

Experience dramatic scenery, landscapes and wonderful hospitality on a South Island New Zealand tour. We have over 120 great itineraries exploring the South Island by coach from escorted and guided tours to highly flexible Thrifty Tours which depart every single day. New Zealand's South Island has it all, from the beaches of Abel Tasman National Park to the thrill of a jet Boat ride in Queenstown or a heli hike on the West Coast glaciers. All our South Island New Zealand tours visit iconic locations of the south including Mt. Cook National Park, Milford Sound, Wanaka, Fiordland National Park, Dunedin, Franz Josef and Fox Glacier plus much more. Get in touch with us today to get the best advice on the best South Island tour for you.

Southern Highlights with Milford Sound

5 days, from christchurch to christchurch.

• New Zealand Independent Tour
• Pre and post tour options? Yes
• Viewed 729 times in the last 7 days

Enjoy 5 days exploring New Zealand's South Island with this excellent independent touring itinerary....

Enjoy 5 days exploring New Zealand's South Island with this excellent independent touring itinerary. Journey from Christchurch in a loop around the South Island. Cruise through Milford Sound, visit Mt. Cook National Park, explore the West Coast glaciers, and travel on the TranzAlpine scenic train.

Christchurch to Milford Sound and Queenstown

3 days, from christchurch to christchurch.

• Hotel 4 star
• Viewed 1141 times in the last 7 days

Enjoy the scenery of Canterbury, the Mackenzie country and Mt Cook National Park before arriving int...

Enjoy the scenery of Canterbury, the Mackenzie country and Mt Cook National Park before arriving into Queenstown. Take a fully escorted day tour to Milford Sound with Real Journeys.

Glaciers Overnight

2 days, from queenstown to christchurch.

• Viewed 754 times in the last 7 days

Short and sweet, this tour to the glaciers is a New Zealand bucket list experience.

8 day South Island Scenic Explorer

8 days, from christchurch to christchurch.

• Hotel 3 star
• Viewed 553 times in the last 7 days

A great 8 day tour which introduces you to Mt Cook National Park, Queenstown. Fiordland, Milford Sou...

A great 8 day tour which introduces you to Mt Cook National Park, Queenstown. Fiordland, Milford Sound and the West Coast Glaciers and includes the Tranz Alpine Scenic Train journey.

5 day Dunedin, Queenstown, Milford Sound and Mt. Cook

• Viewed 1253 times in the last 7 days

This 5 day highlights tour includes Dunedin, Milford Sound including a cruise plus time in wonderful...

This 5 day highlights tour includes Dunedin, Milford Sound including a cruise plus time in wonderful Queenstown before returning to Christchurch via Mt Cook National Park.

West Coast Escape with TranzAlpine

2 days, from christchurch to queenstown.

• Viewed 665 times in the last 7 days

Highlights include: The world famous Tranz Alpine Scenic Train • The wild West Coast • Vis...

Highlights include: The world famous Tranz Alpine Scenic Train • The wild West Coast • Visit Franz Josef Glacier •  Lakes Wanaka and Hawea • the Gibbston Valley • Queenstown

3 day TranzAlpine Glaciers and Queenstown

3 days, from christchurch to queenstown.

• Viewed 457 times in the last 7 days

A classic 3 day itinerary this tour gets you from Christchurch to Queenstown in comfort on reliable ...

A classic 3 day itinerary this tour gets you from Christchurch to Queenstown in comfort on reliable small group tours. Witness the West Coast and southern lakes whilst enjoying the TranzAlpine Scenic Train and a stay in Queenstown.

5 Day Southern Highlights

• Viewed 422 times in the last 7 days

An introduction to the South Island including Mt Cook National Park, Queenstown, Fiordland, Milford ...

An introduction to the South Island including Mt Cook National Park, Queenstown, Fiordland, Milford Sound, the West Coast Glaciers and the TranzAlpine Scenic Train journey. An ideal tour to customise to your own schedule!

7 day Fiordland Explorer 4 star tour

7 days, from christchurch to christchurch.

• Viewed 558 times in the last 7 days

This 7 day Fiordland Explorer tour visits Milford Sound, Doubtful Sound, Lake Te Anau's Glow Worm Ca...

This 7 day Fiordland Explorer tour visits Milford Sound, Doubtful Sound, Lake Te Anau's Glow Worm Caves and leaves you with time to experience the Adventure Capital of Queenstown.

• Viewed 546 times in the last 7 days

Enjoy the scenery of Canterbury, the Mackenzie Country and the Southern Alps on your way to Queensto...

Enjoy the scenery of Canterbury, the Mackenzie Country and the Southern Alps on your way to Queenstown. Then take the time to enjoy a fully escorted day tour to Milford Sound with Real NZ.

Even with hundreds of New Zealand coach touring ideas we know that sometimes you need something special. That's why the team at NZCT are experts at designing New Zealand holidays to suit everyone. We can combine our Guided Coach Tours with a tailor-made independent tour in another part of New Zealand and then design a self drive holiday to finish off your itinerary. Whatever you can think of we can create so you get the New Zealand touring experience you deserve.

Our sister company, New Zealand Self drive Tours , specialises in just that - Self Drive Holidays across New Zealand. With over 200 great itinerary ideas to help inspire you there is something for everyone. Our team of NZ Specialists tailor-make each itinerary to suit you. With hundreds of accommodation options, activity ideas, a great rental car range and our expertise to pull it altogether you are guaranteed a great NZ Self Drive holiday.

New Zealand Fine Touring is the parent company of New Zealand Coach Tours. Started in 2004 New Zealand Fine Touring grew from a small home business to New Zealand's leading touring holiday planner. We operate many different channels such as New Zealand Coach Tours, New Zealand Self Drive Tours, Fine Tours New Zealand, Discover New Zealand, Thrifty Tours, Ski New Zealand, NZ Road Trip, Pure Journeys and our travel agent only business nzsidekick. Each channel specialises in a particulur style of touring holiday but we can also use our experience across all these channels to create a bespoke itinerary to suit anyone from anywhere. Check out New Zealand Fine Touring here .

South Island Tours & Holidays

New Zealand's South Island has alpine delights and natural wonders.

From hiking on glaciers to kayaking with dolphins, you can enjoy a range of active experiences while you’re surrounded by some of the most beautiful places in New Zealand’s South Island. If you’re looking for the perfect South Island itinerary, you’ve come to the right place. A New Zealand South Island tour promises breathtaking scenery, heart-pumping adrenaline activities, fascinating cultural experiences, and some of the best food and wine on the planet. If you're having trouble figuring out whether you should explore the South Island or the North Island of New Zealand, you simply have to look at all the fun experiences to be had, from overnight scenic cruises to cultural exchanges and exciting adventure tours. From sampling the region’s famous wine near Queenstown  to sleeping on Milford Sound and observing the famous kiwi bird in Christchurch , there are plenty of great things to do in New Zealand’s South Island.

Our South Island trips

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South Island highlights

South island tour reviews.

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South island travel faqs, do i need a covid-19 vaccine to join an intrepid trip.

Trips from 1 January 2023 onwards

From 1 January 2023, Intrepid will no longer require travellers to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19 (excluding all Polar trips and select adventure cruises).

However, we continue to strongly recommend that all Intrepid travellers and leaders get vaccinated to protect themselves and others.

Specific proof of testing or vaccination may still be required by your destination or airline. Please ensure you check travel and entry requirements carefully.

How do I get to the South Island?

The two major airports on New Zealand's South Island are Christchurch and Queenstown.

Flying into Christchurch is generally cheaper than flying into Queenstown, especially during ski season.

Vehicle ferry services, which also take foot passengers, travel between Wellington in the North Island and Picton at the tip of the South Island daily and take around three-and-a-half hours. 

Getting around the South Island

Most people hire a car or a motorhome or book a New Zealand tour to travel around the South Island of New Zealand.

InterCity buses are also available for long distance travel to the major towns in the South Island. 

When is the best time to visit the South Island?

If you would like to go skiing, the best time to visit the South Island is from late June to early September.

Visiting outside the school holidays is the best option if you aren't travelling with school-age children as New Zealand's South Island is popular for family holidays and gets busy during these times.

Summer is pleasantly warm with low humidity and days that are generally clear and sunny.

Winter sees snow on the mountains and in the middle of the South Island. Some inland roads can be closed due to snow, so plan your journey accordingly.

Spring sees fewer crowds and is ideal for hiking and outdoor pursuits. 

What should I pack for the South Island?

The weather in the South Island can be changeable so pack clothes you can layer plus a jumper or jacket, wet weather gear, a hat and a beanie.

Even if you are visiting in winter, a pair of shorts and a t-shirt is a good idea if you are planning on going hiking as it can be get surprisingly warm in the middle of the day during the cooler months. 

What should I wear in the South Island?

The South Island of New Zealand is a fairly casual place although locals do tend to dress up if they are 'hitting the town' at night in major towns like Queenstown or Christchurch.

Smart casual is the norm at most restaurants, aside from the signature 'date night' ones where people tend to dress up more. 

What is the internet access like in the South Island?

There is good WiFi coverage in major towns and tourist centres in the South Island of New Zealand but it is not uncommon to lose coverage in some situations such as when you are driving through mountains or hiking in remote areas. 

Can I use my mobile/cell phone in the South Island?

There is good mobile coverage in major towns and tourist centres in the South Island of New Zealand but it is not uncommon to lose coverage in some situations such as when you are driving through mountains or hiking in remote areas. 

Are Intrepid trips accessible for travellers with disabilities?

We are committed to making travel widely  accessible , regardless of ability or disability. We do our best to help you see the world, regardless of physical or mental limitations. 

We are always happy to talk to travellers with disabilities and see if we can help guide them toward the most suitable itinerary for their needs and, where possible, make reasonable adjustments to our itineraries.

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The 7 Best 10-12-Day Tours of the South Island ⛰️ [2024]

Nz pocket guide is 10 years old. thank you for trusting us with your trip for over a decade, how to tour the south island in 10 to 12 days.

10 to 12 days is a good amount of time to explore about half of the South Island , but you might want to consider using a tour company to save time on finding your way and planning your trip. For the traveller who wants it easy, the South Island has a spectacular range of escorted tours to suit a variety of travel types. Whether you seek luxury or are on a budget, travelling with kids or travelling solo, want to travel slow or see as much as possible, there’s a tour for you on the South Island of New Zealand . Check out some of our favourites in this guide to the best 10-12-day tours of the South Island.

While you’re here, you might also be interested in The Best 10-12-Day Tours of the North Island . Plus, find out more about exploring by bus in Travel by Bus in New Zealand: The Ultimate Guide .

6 Tips for Planning a 10-Day or 12-Day Trip to the South Island

• Allow an extra day or two for your trip to the South Island, so that you can include your travel time to and from your tour’s starting point, as well as allow yourself to get over the jet lag
• Pack light : don’t be the one with extra suitcases that everyone has to make room for! See our New Zealand Packing List  for more packing tips.
• Use websites like TourRadar to compare tour companies and find the perfect fit for you. Another advantage to these websites is that they have standard cancellation policies should your plans change
• Decide on a few optional activities before your trip so you are able to budget correctly
• On a similar note, allow room in your budget for meals , if your tour does not include every meal – see How Much Does a Trip to New Zealand Cost?  for the typical cost of food in New Zealand.
• Ask if your chosen tour company has a Facebook Group ! That way, you can connect with other travellers who will be on the same tour.

For more New Zealand tour advice, see the 15 Tips to Make the Most of Your Bus Trip .

Backyard Roadies – South Island Explorer

One of the best-value fully guided small-group tours in New Zealand, Backyard Roadies ‘  10-Day South Island Explorer gets you to see the major highlights, as well as a few surprises in between. Travel with a small group of like-minded travellers and enjoy a generous list of included activities, such as a Milford Sound cruise, a greenstone carving workshop in Franz Josef and not to mention day trips to Mt Cook and Arrowtown ! With small groups and a mix of male and female guides, Backyard Roadies offers fun, safe and great-value tours for all.

About Backyard Roadies’ Tours

Age Range : 18-40+-year-olds Maximum Group Size : 16 Accommodation : Lodges and boutique hostels Meals : All breakfasts and one dinner

Destinations on the 10-Day Tour

• Christchurch
• Lake Tekapo (with Mt Cook day trip)
• Lake Te Anau (with Milford Sound day trip)
• Queenstown (with Arrowtown day trip)
• Franz Josef
• Arthur’s Pass (day trip)

Find out more about this tour company on backyardroadies.com . Plus, check out more tours for 10 days in The 10 Best 10-12-Day Tours of New Zealand .

Inspiring Journeys – Southern Drift

Convenient, laid-back and just plain fun, the Southern Drift tour with Inspiring Journeys is an excellent way to explore the South Island. The 12-day South Island tour starts and ends in Christchurch, taking a range of passengers, from young teens to seniors, to the South Island’s main bucket list destinations. We’re talking about Franz Josef , Milford Sound and Queenstown , as well as a few surprises along the way. Hotel accommodation is included. Meanwhile, Inspiring Journeys is just about the only escorted tour actually staying in Milford Sound. Some activities are also included, as well as most meals.

For more tours starting in Christchurch, check out The Best New Zealand Tours Starting in Christchurch .

About Inspiring Journey’s Tours

Age Range : 12-99-year-olds Maximum Group Size : 20 Accommodation : Hotels and lodges Meals : 11 breakfasts, one lunch and 11 dinners

Destinations on the 12-Day Tour

• Milford Sound

Find out more about this tour, including price, by comparing Inspiring Journeys on Tourradar .

Intrepid Travel – New Zealand South Island Adventure

A more active tour taking you to more destinations on the South Island, the New Zealand South Island Adventure tour with Intrepid Travel is well worth considering. The small-group tour lasts 12 days starting in Christchurch and ending in Queenstown . While there are plenty of highlights on the itinerary, including a Milford Sound cruise, it’s the off-the-beaten-track locations that are sure to stick with you, such as the historic mining towns of Reefton and Westport , the less-visited but no less impressive Fox Glacier and even the sub-antarctic Stewart Island !

For more small-group adventures, head to The Best Small-Group Tours in New Zealand .

About Intrepid Travel’s Tours

Age Range : 15-99-year-olds Maximum Group Size : 12 Accommodation : Hotels, motels and cabins Meals : 11 breakfasts

• Kumara and Hokitika
• Fox Glacier
• The Catlins
• Stewart Island

Find out more about this tour, including prices, by comparing Intrepid Travel on Tourradar .

Haka Tours (Haka Plus) – Southern Pioneer

Say you’ve spent some time on the North Island and you’re ready to hit the South; Haka Tours provides just the 10-day tour for 30 to 70-year-olds. The Southern Pioneer tour starts in Christchurch , taking you off the tourist trail to the gorgeous Lake Ohau . You won’t miss the highlights when checking out Queenstown , Wanaka and Franz Josef . The tour ends conveniently back where it began, in the South Island’s largest city, Christchurch .

About Haka Tours’ Tours

Age Range : 30-70-year-olds Maximum Group Size : 16 Accommodation : Hotels, motels and lodges Meals : All breakfasts and two dinners

Find out more about this tour, including prices, by comparing Haka Tours on Tourradar .

Trafalgar – Southern Spectacular

Enjoy an in-depth tour of the South Island across 10 days with this Southern Spectacular tour with Trafalgar . The tour loops from Christchurch to Christchurch incorporating the TranzAlpine train journey and a Milford Sound cruise. Stay in upmarket hotels and enjoy a substantial number of meals on this tour that gives you more bang for your buck while having fewer logistics to organise. You also have two full days to experience Queenstown your way.

About Trafalgar’s Tours

Age Range : 5-99-year-olds Maximum Group Size : 50 Accommodation: Hotels Meals : 9 breakfasts, one lunch and eight dinners

Find out more about this tour, including the price, by comparing Trafalgar on Tourradar .

Luxury Gold – The Southern Drift

Stay in five-star accommodation and enjoy world-class dining on this upmarket tour around the South Island with Luxury Gold . Start and end your journey in Christchurch , where you’ll get to experience the TranzAlpine train, meet a local greenstone carver in Franz Josef , kayak in Milford Sound , tour Larnach Castle in Dunedin and more. Most meals are included in the trip with dinners including wine. You’ll also get ample leisure time on this tour, which isn’t too fast-paced.

For more tours suited to the older crowd, head to  The Best New Zealand Tours for Seniors .

About Luxury Gold’s Tours

Age Range : 5-99-year-olds Maximum Group Size : 40 Accommodation: Hotels Meals : 11 breakfasts, one lunch and seven dinners

Find out more about this tour by comparing Luxury Gold on Tourradar .

Thrifty Tours – Southern National Parks

Hit some of the most breathtaking national parks on the South Island on the Southern National Parks tour with Thrifty Tours . This 10-day New Zealand prearranged self-guided tour is for the budget-conscious traveller by swapping a fully guided experience for a prearranged coach + accommodation + airport transfers package. Start and end in Christchurch , staying in a twin-share room in motel accommodation. The experience includes one of the most scenic train journeys in the world, the TranzAlpine , as well as a Milford Sound cruise and airport transfers. The tour also gives you ample time in most destinations to relax and explore on your own.

About Thrifty Tours’ Tours

Age Range : 1-100-year-olds Maximum Group Size : 50 Accommodation: Motels Meals : One lunch

Find out more about this tour by comparing Thrifty Tours on Tourradar .

More About 10 to 12-Day Bus Tours of the South Island

That’s it for our list of the best 10-12-day South Island tours! If these tours didn’t quite speak to you, how about these?

• The Best National Bus Tours in New Zealand
• The Best National Coach Tours in New Zealand
• The Best Backpacker Bus Tours in New Zealand

Finally, compare all of your bus travel options in our complete guide, How to Travel by Bus in New Zealand .

The information in this guide has been compiled from our extensive research, travel and experiences across New Zealand and the South Pacific, accumulated over more than a decade of numerous visits to each destination. Additional sources for this guide include the following:

• Tourism New Zealand (General travel advice - Updated [2024])
• Immigration New Zealand (Visa and immigration advice - Updated [2024])
• New Zealand Customs Service (Customs and Biosecurity - Updated [2024])
• New Zealand Traveller Declaration (NZTD online platform - Updated [2024])
• Tiaki Promise (Care for people place and culture - Updated [2024])
• Safe Travel (NZ travel advisories - Updated [2024])
• Stats NZ (Statistics and travel data - Updated [2024])
• Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency (Road and transport tips - Updated [2024])
• DriveSafe (Road safety - Updated [2024])
• Council websites and freedom camping maps (Local travel advice region by region - Updated [2024])
• AdventureSmart (Know before you go - Update [2024])

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Kia Ora, welcome to Wildsouth Discovery.

Explore New Zealand’s stunning South Island with our Tailor-Made Personally Guided Tours

We are passionate locals who love sharing our magical world with our guests. It’s a place of dramatic scenic beauty that will electrify your senses and capture your heart: golden beaches, ancient forests, crystal-clear lakes, glaciers and majestic alpine landscapes.

As locals with over 27 years’ of experience in the New Zealand tourism industry, we know this island intimately, and we can guarantee our discerning guests will experience a magnificent journey, and take away memories they will treasure for a lifetime.

Give us a call today on 03 332 3665 (within NZ), +64 3 332 3665 (Outside NZ) or email us using our contact form, outlining where you’d like to go, and some of the things you’d like to see and do, then let us do the rest. We can tailor the perfect trip to suit you and your fellow travellers, in style and comfort.

Wildsouth Discovery Guided Experiences

Private Tours and Luxpeditions

At Wildsouth Discovery, we do  offer some “off-the shelf” tours but mostly, we design “Tailored Journeys.”

Join us on a journey of exploration ,  discovery  and  inspiration  through the South Island of New Zealand. The custom tours that we offer are private, completely personalized and created for the discerning traveller who expects a high level of luxury, service and attention to detail.

We are passionate about creating and personally guiding exclusive, tailor made tours. Our emphasis is always on quality for visitors wanting that “extra something”, and a memorable and wonderful stay.

Read more about our Tailor-Made Tours

Customised Tours in South Island

Akaroa day tour, arthur's pass day tour, kaikoura heli-day tour.

Journeys, expeditions and safaris

• Would you like to experience a special kind of vacation with a boutique tour operator?

• Would you enjoy travelling on an exclusive private tour?

• Do you enjoy doing gentle guided walks?

• Do comfort, fun, exploring, discovering and learning appeal to you while travelling?

• Do you find first-class service, superb food and exquisite accommodations very desirable?

• Are you interested in history, geology, wildlife, ancient pristine landscapes or perhaps just magnificent scenery?

• Do you enjoy getting ‘off the beaten track’?

If you can answer yes to one or more of these questions, then perhaps you should join one of our Companion Luxpeditions!

It’s an unforgettable moment when you round a corner to a remote and beautiful location, and stop for a delicious picnic morning tea, a picnic lunch or a picnic stop for a glass (or two) of NZ wine and cheese.

Whether it is a bush morning tea with a stunning view, a relaxed picnic stop in a secluded spot or a private celebratory lunch looking out at a mountain, there’s just something special about eating al fresco.

Going the extra mile and offering guests the special delight of a picnic experience in our varied outdoors is one of the hallmarks of what Wildsouth Discovery prides itself on… definitely something to consider before you book your next trip.

We strive to create unique, lifelong memories for each and every guest that travels with us.

By tapping into our broad experience and our deep knowledge of the South Island’s unparalleled beauty, heritage and culture, we ensure everyone gets the most from every moment of their tailor-made and personally-guided journey.

Creating lifelong memories through unique travelling experiences

Sharing our experience and knowledge with guests to explore and discover South Island’s beauty, heritage, and culture

Providing exclusive companion luxpeditions through our customised, personally guided tours

In 2009, Brian was nominated as one of 3 finalists for the 2009 ITOC (Inbound Tour Operator’s Council) – Operator of the Year Award. The award recognises New Zealand tourism operators who offer outstanding tourism experiences for inbound travellers, and are selected by leading inbound operators based on feedback they receive directly from international clients.

   Amazing custom tour!!!  - My husband and I had an amazing 9 days with Brian touring us around the South Island! We had worked with him to develop our custom tour and it ... read more turned out perfect! He understood our desire to go more off-the-beaten path and to have extra opportunities to walk/hike. Brian knows the island very well, including hidden gems and the best places for great views and food, he guided us superbly. We also enjoyed special treats contributed by Paula, often at gorgeous stops for tea or coffee. I appreicated the extra resources in the van including maps and binder of cultural information. We really felt like we learned and saw alot of NZ! We highly recommend Wildsouth Discovery!

   Wonderful!  - This was our first visit to New Zealand. We did not have the luxury of taking the recommended minimum of a month to travel the country--we had only a week ... read more for the South Island and opted to go with professionals to help us maximize our time there. We didn’t attempt to “do it all” but we did have some requirements. As we made inquiries Brian was keen to call so we could better discuss what we wanted to do. Brian made suggestions and designed an itinerary that incorporated our priorities and South Island highlights: hikes, scenic views, night sky, wildlife, bird watching and wine drinking. I was concerned about spending too much time driving rather than hiking but to get around the large distances one must drive. However, the vehicle is very comfortable, the scenery is spectacular and journeys were broken up with hikes, picnic lunches, afternoon teas or wine and cheese. In fact, because of the bespoke itinerary we struck a perfect balance between seeing different places and walking and being active. Our travels included lodging in superb accommodations: Arrowtown Boutique Hotel and Wilderness Lodge Lake Moeraki, which added more value to our Wildsouth Discovery experience. Brian and Paula are delightful hosts who work hard to make your trip easy in a relaxed and easy-going way. They shared their love for New Zealand and knowledge of geography, natural history and “secret” places and provided us with views of dolphins, birds, glaciers, breathtaking scenery and more all in one short week.

   Outstanding private guides of the South Island  - Our travel agent had recommended Wildsouth Discovery tours to us for our week in Christchurch. Brian Lucas and his partner Paula Sinclair were everything we could have expected and more. ... read more Brian met us at the airport at midnight and got us to our B & B, he and Paula picked us up after our breakfast and began with an orientation of the city itself and its attractions, gradually expanding in term of geography to the coastal peninsula where we saw fur seals and dolphins, on a whale watch out in the Pacific, and up on the TransAlpine train to Arthur's Pass in the Southern Alps. They provided a portable tea for us wherever we went, including Paula's home made chocolate cookies, and they took us to their vacation home in Akarora for wine and more chocolates. They were the essence of kindness and consideration. We consider them to be close friends. We had a wonderful time because of them.

   Amazing  - Brian and his wife Paula gave us the best tour we’ve ever had. Not only did they know facts about the area they took us places a regimented tour ... read more wouldn’t. They even took us to a Harley dealer before the end of our day! A picnic in the hills with cheese, wine and homemade treats topped it all off. Recommend them 100000000%.

   'Wildsouth discovery' West Coast South Island NZ trip  - The many bush walks were my favorite part of my South Island adventure. Wildsouth discovery is an excellent way to explore many locations in the South Island of New ... read more Zealand. Brian and Paula planned a small group tour for us that was flexible accommodating the groups interests and abilities. Their knowledge of history, flora and fauna brought the itinerary alive. As hosts and guides they are outstanding. I thoroughly enjoyed my 8 day West Coast adventure and recommend them highly.

   Wonderful day with fantastic hosts  - We were lucky enough to get to go on this fantastic tour on a gorgeous summer day in New Zealand while there recently for our wedding. Brian and Paula were ... read more our hosts and picked us up in their super comfy touring van from our accommodation. We were greeted with smiles and hospitality from Brian and Paula who quickly got us settled into the van and on the way to middle earth! The trip out to Mount Sunday was so comfortable and we felt very cared for and looked after- little extras such as a comfort stop along the way for tea and biscuits made it feel like going on a day out with friends which was lovely. The van has very comfortable seats with furry cushions which really makes the trip so much more pleasant- you could tell that Brian and Paula had put a lot of thought into making each detail unique and comfortable and had gone above and beyond to change things to make them even better for us. Brian and Paula were wonderful hosts- Paula in the back providing a solid and calm presence and Brian up front chatting knowledgeably about the locations and places we were going. It was clear that they both have a love for the land and love sharing this with others. Mount Sunday was absolutely beautiful and Brian and Paula gave us the freedom to climb the hill at our own pace, exploring the beauty and sites. At the top of Mount Sunday Brian even produced a sword which we excitedly waved around and took photos posing as our favourite lord of the rings characters. It was a fantastic touch which really added to the experience of being up in such a great place (and made taking photos that more fun!). On the way back from Edoras we were happily surprised to stop off by Lake Clearwater and we paddled around in the water a bit, skipping stones and enjoying the beauty of the lake. While we did this Brian and Paula were setting up a wonderful lunch for us on the shore with a picnic table, wine, homemade chutneys, cheese and more! It was truly wonderful and such a kind and personal experience- we hadn't expected this and we were a bit overcome with how thoughtful this was and this was a highlight of the trip for us. Sitting by the lake, eating Paula's homemade chutney and looking at the beauty around us was magical. On the way back we had another comfort stop which was planned and obviously well thought out by Brian and Paula- wherever we stopped it was clear they had scouted it out and chosen the spot because of it's beauty and unique experience. We had tea and chocolate by some lovely waterfalls and then Brian and Paula returned us to our accommodation around 630ish. I would highly recommend Wildsouth Discovery to any travellers in NZ- I felt very looked after and comfortable that Brian and Paula would have done whatever they could to help make our trip memorable. If you are looking for a more personal touch with lovely people and fantastic views don't go past these guys! Thanks Brian and Paula, your tour was a highlight of our trip to NZ!

   Amazing tour, excellent hosts  - Brian and Paula are among the best guides that South Island has to offer, and I feel truly lucky to have had them along for my journey. They know their ... read more way around the island, how to avoid the tourist traps and get off the beaten track, and (most importantly) how to plan one hell of a trip. The accommodations and vehicles we used were extremely comfortable, the food was nothing short of amazing, and the locations (both large and small) were beautiful. Would recommend to anyone planning a trip to South Island, even returning visitors!

   Unforgettable Journey through New Zealand's South Island with Wildsouth: A Review  - My family and I had an incredible 10-day exploration of the stunning South Island of New Zealand in the company and under the guidance of Brian and Paula. Their itinerary ... read more perfectly aligned with our desire for a relaxing and adventurous vacation, infused with some luxurious touches. Brian and Paula's extensive knowledge and enthusiasm for explaining and showcasing the natural beauty of New Zealand, Maori culture, and the history of New Zealand were truly impressive. They were so kind and sweet, and especially my children loved them. I must say that without them, this amazing trip would not have been possible. Among the numerous highlights were Brian's skill in revealing hidden gems and scenic spots not featured in typical travel brochures, as well as Paula's delightful homemade treats for morning and afternoon teas, along with wine, cheese, and caracaras. Brian and Paula consistently went above and beyond to ensure our holiday was unforgettable, and we wholeheartedly recommend Wildsouth. When the opportunity arises to revisit the South Island, we will undoubtedly choose to travel with them again. I highly recommend this tour, as you could not find a better one than this.

   Discovering our own back yard.  - We enjoyed 8 action-packed days, visiting places on the South Island's West Coast that we'd previously either driven past, or simply not realised, were available to explore. ... read more Because of Brian & Paula's knowledge of the area, no highlights were missed. With their explanations of the history, Maori legends, and botanical information, we were able to fully understand and appreciate what we were experiencing. Their choices for accommodation and meals was top notch, without costing a fortune, and really showed how much effort they put into exploring all the aspects, prior to our trip. All of these features, together with not having to drive, mean we can highly recommend traveling with Wildsouth Discovery. Wonderful Hosts & Guides.

   We sent the most amazing 4 days with Brian & Paula. They met us at the airport and gave us a great city tour of Christchurch, then delivered us to ... read more our hotel. An amazing day in North Canterbury at a sheep/beef farm watching the sheep dogs work the animals, the shearing of the sheep and hand feeding alpacas, including an incredible jet boat trip. A day at Akoroa Harbor for a harbor cruise to see Hector Dolphins, lunch at a delightful restaurant, and walkabout of a charming town. A train trip to Arthur's Pass National Park and Otira Gorge. Brian & Paula met us at the pass and we drove for many incredible views, tea and treats along the way, as well as a stop at a very good restaurant for lunch in the middle of no where. Another stop at a Merino sheep ranch - amazing day! Final day we were picked up at our hotel and personally dropped at the charter bus that took us to the cruise ship dock. All of this plus restaurant recommendations and many conversations and laughs along the way. Not only were Brian & Paula great guides, but we felt like we spent 4 days with "good friends". Certainly our favorite part of visiting New Zealand.

   Wonderfully Tailored Experience  - We spent an amazing 10 days touring the beautiful South Island of New Zealand with Brian and Paula. They put together an itinery that exactly matched our requirements for a ... read more stress free and not too adventurous holiday with some luxury thrown in. Brian and Paula's knowledge and passion of the flora, fauna and Maori culture was amazing and by the end of the trip we were well educated in all three. Just a couple of highlights were Brian's ability to show us some out of the way places and scenery that you won't find in the travel brochures and Paula's amazing home cooked treats for morning and afternoon teas (and wine). Nothing was too much trouble and Brian and Paula went out of their way to ensure we had a memorable holiday. We have no hesitation in recomending Wildsouth and will travel with them again when we have the opportunity to revisit the South Island.

   South Island High Country - Lord of the Rings, Canterbury  - The best tour we have experienced - and we have been on many, many tours. Pickup in Christchurch was exactly on time, the vehicle was very comfortable with great seats ... read more and all were positioned so that everyone had a good view. Morning tea was a very welcome surprise - lovely. Our destination was Mt Sunday in the High Country (Edoras in the Lord of the Rings) - what a place- stunning. Lunch was provided and unexpected, wine, fresh bread, dips etc on the banks of Lake Clearwater. Could you find a more peaceful and picturesque spot? Brian and Paula our hosts were just fantastic, extremely knowledgeable, helpful, friendly and very very passionate about New Zealand.

   Arthur’s Pass  - This is our first NZ trip. We had a private Arthur’s Pass tour with Brian and Paula. They were timely, knowledgeable, funny and gracious and our experience was ... read more fantastic. When you are in the Christchurch area this is the place to go for a memorable private tour. We absolutely loved it

   A Day to Remember: Arthur's Pass and the Otira Gorge with Expert Guiding  - First, Brian and Paula rescued our day. With the train fire, our plan was in Jeopardy. No worries, they scooped us up from our hotel in Christchurch, and ... read more we drove in style and comfort. We stopped countless times on the way for scenic vistas--a photographer's dream--and their knowledge about the history, personalities, plants and trees, and the places (Castle Hill Rocks, Southern Alpes, Waimakariri River) was staggering. Not sure we managed to ask a question that was a stumper. Four well-traveled adults agreed these guides were terrific. Very full day, and returned to hotel at 6:30pm.

   Adventures in the South Island!  - If you are looking to avoid masses of tourists & find the real essence of the South Island, then you can do no better than touring with the lovely duo ... read more of Brian & Paula. They are fantastic hosts who love and enjoy showing us their beautiful country. We went on a 5-day trip and learnt a lot, had masses of fun and I can't recommend them highly enough. They tailored our trip to our exacting specifications and tight time scale. Great vehicle, which was very comfortable with large seats and nothing was too much trouble for them with picnics and yummy home-made chocolates to boot!

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Join us on an epic tour of the South Island of New Zealand and discover hidden gems, beautiful places and historic, off the beaten track destinations. Talk to us about a personalised itinerary which can be created for you to icons of the South Island.

“Just to say thank you to you both for a really great holiday! For all the necessary background work and admin required for a tour like this you do a wonderful job Lee so much appreciation! Geoff, you were an excellent tour guide, really well informed and great company, all the details which help to make a very special experience. To add to it all, your baking was delicious Lee and also much appreciated! Thank you again”

Eileen E., Stewart Island and Catlins Tour

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“This tour was simply amazing!! Two occasions in particular, the scenic flight over the McKenzie Country, the lakes where breath-taking & the star gazing was out this world! So many other interesting places visited + wonderful accommodation, meals & company !!-It’s lovely meeting so many interesting companions on all the trips. I just loved it all!!”

Barbara McGregor, Winter Night Sky Tour

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All of our New Zealand Self Drive South Island Packages and fly drive New Zealand South Island holidays and itineraries are flexible, so you can add or drop nights in each stop to suit your timetable. Contact us for advice and a new cost by clicking on the Book Now icon for each South Island self drive New Zealand tour.

For a personalised New Zealand South Island itinerary gives us details of your ideas, interests, how long you need, places or activities you want to include, and we will work out a special quote for you.

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The 15 Day Best of the South Island

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Day by Day Itinerary

Explore New Zealand's South Island on this classic 15 Day southern New Zealand circuit, an awe-inspiring self-drive sightseeing tour. Highlights include a guided walk experience in Mount Cook National Park, wildlife experience on a remote island in Lake Wanaka, a helicopter flight over both Fox and Franz Josef Glaciers, a spectacular cruise on Milford Sound with a Scenic flight over Fiordland and much much more...

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Reviews of this tour....

We had a few bumps and Katarina quickly responded and was able to give us good advice.

We had a fantastic experience traveling with First Light Travel! The primary reason we chose to travel with them was their excellent consultant, Katarina, who provided prompt and relevant responses throughout the booking process. We found the itinerary to be well-suited to our interests, and the information provided was both accurate and helpful. Our holiday experience exceeded our expectations, with activities that were mostly enjoyable and perfectly aligned with our interests. We particularly loved the accommodations in Queenstown, Christchurch, and Napier, which were outstanding. However, the Te Anau bed and breakfast fell short of our expectations, feeling outdated and out of the way. Despite this, we still felt that the overall holiday experience represented excellent value for money. Katarina's assistance was invaluable, especially when we encountered a few bumps along the way. We greatly appreciate her quick responses and helpful advice. Thank you, First Light Travel, for a memorable holiday!

Other Tours You Might Like....

12 Day Classic Best of Both

Experience the North Islands Geothermal Wonderland, Rotorua, and Fall in love with the South Island's magnificent mountains, giant glaciers, untouched wilderness, and delectable cuisine. With romantic hideaways, jaw-dropping views, and welcoming locals, this unique honeymoon destination is guaranteed to win your heart.

Classic Two Week North and South Island Self Drive Tour

This Classic New Zealand North and South Island Tour is designed for those who prefer exploring the dramatic landscapes of New Zealand, from geothermal marvels, to mountain tops and the soaring vistas of the Milford Sound. We've added plenty of luxurious touches with wine tasting and scenic flights.  The pace is relaxed with time to relax in Rotorua, Wellington, Mt Cook and Queenstown.

Classic 10 Day North & South Island Highlights

Want to maximise your time in New Zealand and cover the best of both islands in 10 days? Then look no further than our most popular 10 Day Highlights...

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The price is based on current exchange rates but is only an approximation. Please contact us for a final price

Kate Abroad

Ultimate 10 Day South Island New Zealand Road Trip Itinerary [2024]

The South Island is truly the most beautiful part of New Zealand , as a kiwi it’s where I tell all visitors to go! This 10 day South Island itinerary hits all the highlights from mountains to beaches to glaciers.

The itinerary is designed as a loop so you could start from Nelson if you are continuing from the North Island or alternatively if you are coming from overseas, the cheapest way to do it would be to fly into Christchurch, either direct (it’s an international airport) or via a domestic connection from Auckland.

This itinerary works perfectly with my 10 day North Island itinerary to make a 3 week New Zealand holiday.

If you’re combining the two, either take the ferry from Wellington to Picton and drive to Nelson or fly direct from Wellington to Nelson. The ferry/flight should be booked at least 3 months in advance as the ferry fills up and flight prices ramp up.

How to get around the South Island on this itinerary

To be honest, this really only works well as a South Island road trip itinerary. 

If you don’t have your own vehicle, you could travel by bus (see my full  guide to New Zealand by bus ) but you will need to allow a few more days as there are limited intercity bus services each day.

You can check out rental car prices and book on  RentalCars.com

Where to stay on your 10 day South Island road trip

This itinerary works equally well for campervanning or driving and booking nightly accommodation. I have included both campground and hotel/motel accommodation options for each location. 

It’s worth noting that big hotels are only really available in Christchurch and Queenstown. Outside of there, it’s mostly small motels. If you usually use points to book chain hotels, you won’t have any luck.

10 Day South Island Itinerary

Days 1-2: nelson/abel tasman.

Nelson is the sunniest beachiest part of the South Island and a great place to start your South Island road trip, especially if it’s summer. 

It’s the gateway to the Abel Tasman National Park and one of the best adventure tourism destinations in New Zealand .

I’d recommend checking out the Abel Tasman Track which is one of New Zealand’s Great Walks on Day 1, assuming you arrive early in the day. You can hike sections of the track in a day by taking the water taxis into one of the bays or hike the whole thing as a long weekend (3-5 days depending on fitness).

Alternatively, leave the hiking boots at home and  hire some kayaks  to explore the Abel Tasman National Park from the water. You can pull up the kayaks at any of the golden sand beaches and have a picnic or swim.

If you’ve worked up a sweat on Day 1 then spend Day 2 either relaxing at the beach or hitting up some wineries. 

Tahunanui is the main beach right in Nelson, if you want a less crowded and more remote beach, make the drive out to Kaiteriteri.

The Marlborough region near Nelson is famous for its white wines. I love Neudorf wines where you can put together your own platters from their local produce store. Blackenbrook Vineyard is also very good. There are plenty of wine tour options if you need someone to drive.

• Pics Peanut Butter World  – I’m obsessed with peanut butter and my second favourite brand has a whole factory in Nelson, go try it
• Melrose Café  – high tea or coffee and cake on the porch of a historic mansion
• Jester House  – quirky Alice in Wonderland-esque venue with good food
• YHA Nelson  – for a cheap and cheerful hostel option where you can dorm together
• Trailways Hotel  – one of the bigger hotels in town with river views

Day 3: Kaikoura

It’s time to hit the road and head south down the east coast of the South Island. As there’s the southern alps in the middle of the island, this trip has you going don one coast and up the other. 

The first stop on your way is Kaikoura, the whale watching capital of New Zealand. So, book yourself onto a cruise and head out onto the water in search for some fins and flippers (there’s seals and dolphins too).

Make sure to get some seafood from Nin’s Bin when you get back, you can eat it on the beach and watch out for more wildlife.

• The White Morph – beachfront units with views for days
• The Pier Hotel – pretty basic but one of the more affordable options in town

Days 4-5: Christchurch via Hanmer Springs and Akaroa

Drive time: 2 hours 30 minutes Distance: 180km

After a few days chilling on the coast, it’s time to head to the South Island’s biggest city and New Zealand’s third largest. Christchurch is awesome because there’s always a new café opening or market or artwork.

On your way, stop off for a soak at Hanmer Springs. This place does an awesome job of having something for everyone whether that’s hydroslides for the kids or romantic rock pools to enjoy with a special someone. Entry isn’t cheap at $35 for adults but you get great value.

While Christchurch was devastated by earthquakes over 10 years ago, it has well and truly bounced back. There is still a lot of empty space in the central city but the walls have been covered in murals and shipping containers turned into bars and cafes.

Make sure to visit the Quake City Museum, it’ll help you understand what happened here and how far the city has come. The Antartic Centre is great too, especially for kids. Other than that, a stroll in Hagley Park and through the Botanic Gardens is a must, it’s beautiful and peaceful.

On your second day in Christchurch, consider a day trip out to Akaroa. It’s a bit over an hour’s drive and pretty windy but with gorgeous scenery.

Akaroa is where the French landed when they first came to New Zealand and it still retains some of that heritage, so if you’re looking for a croissant in New Zealand this is the place! 

• Little High Street – it’s like an indoor street food alley with options for everyone
• Riverside Market – somewhere between a market and a food hall, great for trying local artisan producers
• Rollickin Gelato – awesome dessert, gelato and mug cakes and more
• Sudima Christchurch – a brand new luxury hotel just north of the CBD
• Breakfree – one of the cheapest hotels in the city but actually decent and in a great location (slightly funky mood lighting under the beds though)

Day 6: Mt Cook via Lake Tekapo

Drive time: 4 hours + stops Distance: 330kms

The road into Mount Cook is one of the most beautiful drives in the world, its definitely one of the most Instagram-able places in New Zealand so make sure to take it slow and get your camera out.

It’s not a short drive from Christchurch but there are plenty of places to stop along the way from small towns to sapphire lakes.

I’d recommend timing your lunch break for Geraldine so you can check out the tastings and grab a sweet treat at Barkers of Geraldine. 

After that, head to Lake Tekapo to see the most insanely blue waters, every photo I have from here looks photoshopped! The tiny stone Church of the Good Shepherd creates the most romantic setting with the backdrop of the mountains.

If your visit is from November to January, you might also see masses of purple lupins booming around the lake and the roadside.

If you have time when you get to Mount Cook, it’s worth making the effort to hike the Hooker Valley Track. It’s only 10km (5km each way) and a fairly easy walk (we saw people doing it in jandals). At the end you’re rewarded with the beautiful glacier lake and views of the mountain.

• The Hermitage – one of New Zealand’s most well-know hotels, it’s luxurious and has the absolute best views form the dining room and some of the rooms too, quite touristy though with buses in peak season
• Aoraki Mount Cook Alpine Lodge – a good mid-range option in the village

Days 7-8: Queenstown via Wanaka

Drive time: 3 hours 15 minutes Distance: 260km

For many people Queenstown is the South Island and the South Island is Queenstown. The town is the adventure capital, and tourist capital, of New Zealand. Yet despite the throngs of visitors, it remains incredibly beautiful and peaceful.

The drive from Mount Cook Village to Queenstown is a beautiful one, through the alpine passes and over the Crown Ranges.

Make sure to stop at Wanaka for brunch and to visit the iconic Wanaka tree which somehow grows out of the lake at an impossible angle or the Wanaka Lavender Farm for photo ops and lavender ice-cream.

Then head for an after lunch drink at Cardrona Distillery where you can taste their incredible locally made spirits. It’s the only gin I could drink straight, and the elderflower liqueur is a must-try.

There’s also the Cardrona Hotel perched on top of the mountains if you’re more of a pint of beer kind of person.

Once in Queenstown you have SO many options for things to do. Get out on the lake with a steamship cruise or a jetboat ride , depending on your speed. For the real thrillseekers, there’s the world’s first bungee jump.

Take a hike or a gondola up Ben Lomond and then race down in a luge . Then top it off with a fancy dinner at Rata or some winery visits in the Gibbston Valley. After that, relax in one of the Onsen private pools .

Find more ideas in my summer in Queenstown guide.

• QT Queenstown – a luxe lakefront hotel with quirky décor and DIY negroni kits in the rooms
• Novotel Lakeside – semi-affordable hotel in a premium location
• Jucy Snooze – a cheap capsule hostel with a rooftop bar

Day 9: Fox Glacier

Drive time: 4 hours 15 minutes Distance: 330km

The glaciers are absolute must see on any South Island itinerary and one of the top natural attractions of New Zealand. 

There are lots of ways to see the glacier, you can climb, fly or hike. Hiking up to the base of the glacier is free, otherwise you can pay (a lot more) to be helicoptered onto the glacier and heli-hike there.

While you’re there visit the nearby glow worm caves. You can see them on the Minnehaha Loop walk which gets you up a lot closer than you would in the North Island glow worm caves.

• Bella Vista Motel – it’s mostly motel options out on the West Coast and this is one of the best ones

Day 10: Return to Nelson via Hokitika, Greymouth and Westport

Drive time: 6 hours 15 minutes Distance: 480km

The last day calls for a big drive to get back to Nelson, while it’s a lot of time in the car you’ll get to see most of the Wild West Coast along the way which has some absolutely spectacular scenery.

Try and stop at:

• Hokitika Gorge, the swing bridge over the river is not for the faint-hearted but awesome for photos
• The famous Hokitika stick sign on the beach
• The coal and gold mining towns of Westport and Reefton
• The Shantytown historic replica village

If you want to cut down the drive time you could take the train from Greymouth (2.5 hours from Fox Glacier) to Christchurch and fly back from there.

Alternative :  1 week South Island itinerary

While I absolutely don’t recommend trying to drive this same distance in a week. You could condense this to a 7 day South Island itinerary by staying only one day in Christchurch (skipping Akaroa) and finishing your trip in Queenstown. You would then need to fly out of Queenstown. If you’re coming from overseas, you might want to get a domestic connection via Auckland. 

Alternative: 2 weeks South Island itinerary

This extended itinerary fits even more in but is very action-packed. It works because many of these places are more about natural attractions than activities, so you don’t need as much time there.

For a more slow-paced option, you could take the 10 day itinerary and add extra days in Queenstown and Christchurch.

• Arrive Nelson, wineries, tasting
• Abel Tasman hike/kayak
• Drive Kaikoura
• Christchurch via Hanmer springs
• Christchurch/Akaroa
• Lake Tekapo
• Queenstown (Milford sound walk)
• Fox glacier
• Nelson via Greymouth and Westport

As a kiwi, it’s hard to narrow down my favourite parts of my home country to a short itinerary. There’s so much to see and do and there’s no wrong way to see New Zealand.

In Short: 10 Days in the South Island of New Zealand

The South Island is well known as the most beautiful island of New Zealand and there’s no better way to see it than on a road trip. You can take your time and explore all the landmarks and small towns off the bus and flight routes.

This 10 Day South Island Road Trip Itinerary is a great place to start with planning your trip but don’t let it limit you, stay as long as you want in the destinations that vibe with you and skip on ahead if you run out of things to do.

More South Island Travel Guides

If you’re planning a trip to the South Island of New Zealand, be sure to check out these other guides:

• Best Beaches in the South Island
• Most Instagrammable Photo Locations in New Zealand
• Top Weekend trips from Christchurch

Happy travelling!

New Zealand Travel Resources

• Find the best prices on hotels with flexible cancellation at Booking.com
• Pre-book your tickets to attractions on Klook
• Find awesome day tours on Viator
• Compare prices on cars and campervans for your NZ road trip at RentalCars.com
• Sort your New Zealand dollars with a Wise currency card

Kate is the founder of Kate Abroad. She has travelled to nearly 40 countries from Austria to Vanuatu, and lived in 3. She's on a mission to empower other Gen Zs and Millenials travel affordably by sharing helpful travel guides, stories and tips to over 200,000 readers.

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The Ultimate New Zealand Experience

Combine any of our tours across the North, South and Stewart Islands for the ultimate New Zealand adventure! 

From the pristine white sand beaches and bubbling geothermal landscape of the North Island, to the snow-capped alpine peaks of the South Island and the pristine forests of Stewart Island, New Zealand is a land of diverse scenery and unique experiences. 

Our guests typically join us on one of our 14-day South Island trips and then add on either a North Island or a Stewart Island trip. If you’ve got more time on your hands and you’re keen to delve deeper, then a 14-day South Island trip combined with our Stewart Island trip and one of our North Island trips is the ultimate New Zealand adventure.  

All of our trips can be combined together. You can read more about New Zealand’s three islands and explore our most popular trip combinations below. If you’re still not sure, you can give us a call and Jodi can help you plan your ultimate New Zealand adventure. 

South Island 

The South Island is an island of huge diversity that is famous for its turquoise glacial lakes, snow-capped mountains, towering fiords and tumbling waterfalls. Nine of our fourteen national parks are located on the South Island along with some of the best hiking trails in the world including the Milford, Routeburn and Abel Tasman tracks. Here you’ll find our most iconic landmarks including Milford Sound, the Southern Alps mountain range which is home to our highest peak Aoraki/Mt Cook, and the West Coast Glaciers.   

Explore the South Island on our Masterpiece , Grand Explorer , Kiwi Classic and Pure South trips 

North Island

The North Island is the cultural heart of New Zealand and home to a world of bubbling geothermal activity, lush subtropical rainforest and moonlike volcanic landscapes. It is the home of the best day walk in the world, The Tongariro Crossing, and is the best place to experience our indigenous Maori culture. 

Explore the North Island on our Sweet North and the New Zealand Great Walk Adventure – North trips.

Stewart Island 

Like stepping back to a simpler time, exploring Stewart Island is travel like it used to be. Located just 30km off the bottom of the South Island, Stewart Island is an untouched haven of native wildlife, lush forest and secluded beach coves, and it’s the best place to see Kiwi birds in the wild. With a permanent population of just over 400 inhabitants, Stewart Island is one of New Zealand’s great hidden gems and as it’s relatively unknown, it is truly off-the-beaten track. 

Explore Stewart Island on our New Zealand Great Walk Adventure – South trip.

See our most popular North, South & Stewart Island trip combinations below

Here are some of our most popular trip combinations to give you some ideas but the only real limit is your imagination. You can combine ANY of our itineraries to create your perfect New Zealand adventure. And if you'd like some friendly local advice, or some help putting it all together, chat with Jodi and Cass today. 

Chat with the team today!

Combine the Sweet North and World Heritage trips for the finest way to enjoy New Zealand top to toe. Blend comfort and culture for the complete New Zealand journey.

Combine the Sweet North and Masterpiece trips to explore both islands and find the heart of New Zealand. Marry experience and culture for an extraordinary New Zealand vacation. 

Combine The New Zealand Great Walk Adventure – North  with the Kiwi Classic for the ultimate New Zealand hiking trip. An all-encompassing hiking experience showcasing the very best of our landscape.

Looking for the ultimate two-week New Zealand itinerary? Combine our New Zealand Great Walk Adventure – North  with our Pure South for a highlight reel trip of both islands!

Combine the  Sweet North  and  The Grand Explorer  trip for 19 unforgettable days exploring the very best of New Zealand's national parks and Great Walks. 

Combine our two Great Walks trips of the North & South Islands for The Ultimate Great Walk Adventure. Experience 6 Great Walks, 5 National Parks and explore our North, South & Stewart Islands in comfort and style over 11 incredible days.

Jodi can make it easy to book two trips in one go, give her a call to find out more!!

On your Sweet North trip when you book any South Island trip. To make an easy booking today, or to discuss your options with a friendly Kiwi, give Jodi a call!

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New Zealand’s Most Beautiful Natural Wonders To Add To Your Bucket List

Posted: January 16, 2024 | Last updated: January 16, 2024

New Zealand nature

From the seismic, steaming landscapes of North Island to the uplifting vistas of the South Island, magical places abound in New Zealand. Its spellbinding scenery has starred in many a movie, famously doubling for Middle Earth in The Lord of the Rings. The forces of nature are perhaps more apparent in the Land of the Long White Cloud than anywhere else on Earth, creating technicolored geothermal lakes, smoking volcanoes, mighty glaciers and jaw-dropping fiords.

Click through the gallery for our round-up of the top 30 natural wonders in New Zealand...

Milford Sound, Fiordland National Park

The awe-inspiring proportions of Milford Sound are difficult to grasp. Its sheer mountainsides, ravines and precipitous waterfalls dwarf the cruise liners that come to visit this watery wonderland at the edge of the Southern Alps. Novelist Rudyard Kipling was so struck by the fiords, he described them as the eighth wonder of the world, and no trip to New Zealand’s South Island would be complete without taking a tour here. The fiord is best seen by boat, or scenic flights offer a bird's-eye view.

Franz Josef Glacier, West Coast

Flowing thousands of feet down from mountain peaks all the way to the ocean, the sheer scale of Franz Josef Glacier isn’t fully apparent until you come face-to-face with its base. The temperate New Zealand climate, low altitude, and proximity to the town of the same name make this frozen landscape of compacted blue ice easily accessible too – you can hike around its base and come within 2,460 feet of its terminal face, opt for a guided ice walk or sign up for some aerial sightseeing with a helicopter tour. 

Abel Tasman National Park, Golden Bay

Abel Tasman National Park is a lush coastal paradise near the top of South Island, indented with platinum bays and turquoise waters, with quirky geologic features like Split Apple Rock – which scientists believe was split by a natural phenomenon known as ‘ice wedging’ during an ice age more than 120 million years ago – sited just offshore. The park's bounty of unspoiled beaches include Torrent Bay and Kaiteriteri Beach, voted one of the top five in the world. Kayaking tours are a popular way to appreciate the area’s immense scenic beauty, or to explore on foot, you can follow the Abel Tasman track along the coast.

Blue Pools, Mount Aspiring National Park

The stunning aquamarine Blue Pools in Unesco-listed Mount Aspiring National Park are one of South Island’s scenic masterpieces. Sited at the point where the glacial Makarora River flows into Lake Wanaka, you can follow the beautiful forest trail of Blue Pools Track at Haast Pass to a suspension bridge crossing the pools, where the clear, cool water tempts swimmers, especially on sunny days. 

Orakei Korako, Waikato

To admire the seismic energy of Mother Nature without the crowds, take the ferry across Lake Ohakuri to the hidden valley of Orakei Korako Geothermal Park. Just as spectacular as Rotorua’s fizzing landscapes, the park’s gigantic, technicolor hot springs, geysers, and mud pools are a bubbling hot soup of geothermal activity. Close to Lake Taupo, the area makes a great addition to an itinerary exploring the region’s other highlights, including Waitomo Caves and Huka Falls.

Lake Tekapo, Canterbury

Lake Tekapo is a sight to behold. This turquoise lake in the Southern Alps, fringed by bright pink and purple lupins between November and February each year and surrounded by snow-capped peaks, is truly picturesque. The lake gets its intense color from glacier-grounded minerals suspended in the water. Part of a Unesco Dark Sky Reserve, turn your eyes skywards as night falls for some of the best views of space from Earth.

Elephant Rocks, North Otago

Part of a Unesco-listed geopark, New Zealand’s coast around North Otago is strewn with weird and wonderful geologic marvels that are well worth a stop at for a photo opp. Aptly-named for their smooth, gray humps and curves, Elephant Rocks appear like a herd of fossilized elephants grazing on the green hillsides, close to the Island Cliff-Duntroon road. The strange, weathered stones even formed the backdrop for scenes in the first The Chronicles of Narnia film.

Fox Glacier, West Coast

Another of New Zealand’s most spectacular and accessible icy wonders, the 13km-long Fox Glacier slopes down from 8,530 feet high in the Southern Alps into the ocean, close to the Franz Josef Glacier on the country’s west coast. At Fox Glacier Village, join guided tours and stay in accommodation that provides easy access to an Ice Age wilderness of frozen valleys, tunnels, and caves surrounded by forest. Ambitious explorers can even arrange a heli-hike to the peak of the glacier, or take in the magnificent view from the ground at Cook Flat Road, en route to Lake Matheson.

Huka Falls, Waikato

Natural hydro-power at its most impressive, Huka Falls funnels New Zealand’s longest river, the Waikato, into a steep and narrow ravine with more than 4,840 gallons of icy-blue water per second roaring over the edge. Right at the top of the falls, a footbridge above the spray offers magnificent views, while walking tracks lead to great vantage points along the river. To feel the sheer force of the falls from the water, board a cruise or take a jet boat tour.

Lake Taupo, Waikato

This sparkling freshwater-filled crater is New Zealand’s largest lake, measuring half the size of London and rimmed by epic scenery including stratovolcano Mount Ruapehu and Tongariro National Park. While there are boundless outdoor activities available at Taupo, kayaking to see the Maori rock carvings at Mine Bay is an absolute must. The spectacular Orakei Korako geothermal park and thundering Huka Falls are both close by too.

Kaitoke Regional Park, Greater Wellington

The bewitching beauty of Kaitoke Regional Park’s crystalline rivers and rainforests won it a part in the Lord of the Rings films, doubling as the elvish realm of Rivendell. Its untouched verdant valleys rushing with water are a natural haven that’s easy to explore on foot via the well-worn walking tracks that snake between ancient native trees. The forest canopy is home to a number of rare birds, including endemic kaka parrots and New Zealand falcons.

Moeraki boulders, Otago coast

These huge, bulbous anomalies scattering the sand of Koekohe Beach, between the towns of Moeraki and Hampden, add a different dimension to South Island’s scenic North Otago coast. Appearing like giant cannonballs up to 6.5 feet high, the geologic wonders look as though they were carved by human hands, but in fact they are made of calcified rock concreted together 65 million years ago and slowly released from the soft seabed by coastal erosion. Similar Koutu Boulders can be found around Hokianga Harbour on North Island.

Mount Cook, Christchurch-Canterbury

No list of New Zealand’s natural wonders would be complete without mentioning the country’s tallest mountain, Mount Cook, also commonly called Aoraki. A pure alpine wilderness of snowfields, glaciers, and vanishing peaks more than 9,840 feet high make up Mount Cook, which is surprisingly accessible to visitors. Walking trails fan out from the village, including a one-hour hike to view the spectacular Tasman Glacier. You may even encounter cheeky kea (mountain parrots) along the way.

Ninety Mile Beach, Northland

The iconic Ninety Mile Beach at the far northern tip of North Island is a wide band of seemingly endless golden sand, which, contrary to its name, is in fact 55 miles long. The beach is used as an official road at low tide, with buses offering tours along the beach. Boasting one of the best left-hand surf breaks in the world, the beach is a haven for surfers, while beach activities also include bodyboarding down the sand dunes. The beach is also renowned for its stunning sunsets.

New Zealand Christmas Trees, Northland

The native Pohutukawa tree, also known as New Zealand’s Christmas Tree, is a unique natural feature common in the north of North Island but found all across the country. The wide-canopied trees burst into a profusion of scarlet blossoms every December around Christmas time, and have become synonymous with the festive period. The hardy evergreen is notable for growing in inhospitable spots too, clinging to cliffsides or transforming barren lava fields into a garden of life.

Pancake Rocks, West Coast

This stunning natural attraction at Dolomite Point near the village of Punakaiki on the South Island’s West Coast offers elemental entertainment at its best. Part of Paparoa National Park, named for its flat-packed layers of rock that look like stacks of giant pancakes teetering over the frothing ocean, the geology itself is awe-inspiring. But the power of its air and water vents, exploding suddenly into the sky, offers all the thrill of a fireworks display.

Pohutu Geyser, Rotorua

The Rotorua area is jam-packed with geologic marvels, but Pohutu Geyser towers above the rest – suddenly erupting boiling water 98 feet into the air at least once every hour to the delight of onlookers. The largest active geyser in the southern hemisphere, Pohutu is part of Te Puia’s Te Whakarewarewa Geothermal Valley, full of bubbling pools and coursing elemental energy. Look out for the nearby Prince of Wales Feathers geyser, which always shoots water just before its bigger neighbor erupts.

Lake Matheson, West Coast

In Lake Matheson, nature has created a perfect mirror of South Island’s immense ancient forests and towering Southern Alps that form the island’s backbone. Also known as Reflection Lake, its serene, dark waters are a looking glass for two of New Zealand’s mightiest peaks – Mount Cook (Aoraki) and Mount Tasman – positioned just to the east. The lake was made when nearby Fox Glacier retreated and makes for an ideal stop on an itinerary mapping southern New Zealand’s natural wonders.

Sinbad Gully, Fiordland National Park

A lost world flanked by mountains and carved out by glaciers in Fiordland National Park, Sinbad Gully’s rivers and forests lay hidden for centuries. Hemmed in by the famous Mitre Peak on one side and Llawrenny Peaks on the other, the gully opens out into the jaw-dropping fiords of Milford Sound. Cut off from the world, nature has gone her own way here, creating strange species found nowhere else. The gully was the last mainland stronghold for the critically endangered Kakapo (pictured), a huge, cuddly, flightless parrot now only found on Codfish Island.

Aurora Australis, Queenstown

The South’s answer to the Northern Lights, the Aurora Australis is less well-known but its lime green and rosy light show is just as spectacular. One of the top places to view the curtain of electro-charged lights is around Queenstown on New Zealand’s South Island, but the closer you can get to the South Pole, the better. Most Southern Lights shows occur during the Southern Hemisphere’s autumn and winter months, from March to September.

Sutherland Falls, Fiordland National Park

Fiordland National Park is one of the world’s largest protected areas, covering more than 5,000 square miles of pristine wilderness and harboring more than just a few spectacular sights. They include Sutherland Falls – the country’s highest waterfall – overflowing down steep cliffs from a lake more than half a kilometer above the valley floor. There are two ways to see the falls up close – hiking the renowned Milford Track or taking a scenic flight from nearby hubs such as Milford and Te Anau.

Snares Islands, Southern Ocean

Penguins are the chief inhabitants of the wild and untamed sub-Antarctic Snares, part of a protected World Heritage area that’s the last frontier between South Island and Antarctica. Here, yellow-eyed penguins run tracks through pristine forests and line the steep seaside cliffs alongside seals and seabirds. The remote, uninhabited islands are reachable by expedition cruises that take in the other islands and wildlife.

Waipoua Forest, Bay of Islands

This primordial world of towering ancient trees on the northern tip of New Zealand is the largest remaining tract of native forest in Northland. It's home to Tane Mahuta – the Lord of the Forest – a 2,000-year-old sacred kauri tree that measures 14 feet around its trunk and almost 59 feet up to its first branch. That's young compared to another giant kauri tree found here: Te Matua Ngahere, meaning Father of the Forest, is estimated to be between 2,500 and 3,000 years old.

Te Waikoropupu Springs, Nelson Tasman

Te Waikoropupu Springs contain some of the clearest water ever measured and they are the largest cold freshwater springs in the southern hemisphere, releasing a staggering 3,000 gallons of water per second. Close to the town of Tanaka, a 1km-loop trail threads through the forest and across streams to a platform suspended above the still, crystalline water, where you gaze down into a blue-tinged underwater forest. Please note that swimming is forbidden here due to the springs’ spiritual significance to the Maori people.

Tongariro National Park, Manawatu-Whanganui

The epicenter of New Zealand’s volcanic wonders, Tongariro was the country’s first national park and won Unesco World Heritage status several decades ago. Crowned by three mighty volcanoes – Ruapehu, Ngauruhoe, and Tongariro, which are part of the Pacific Ocean's Ring of Fire – the park encompasses a phenomenal landscape of craters, old lava flows, strange emerald lakes, and steaming vents. New Zealand’s best day hike – the Tongariro Alpine Crossing – takes travelers to the highlights.

Tree Church, Waikato

Hidden among bucolic country gardens in the little hamlet of Ohaupo on New Zealand's North Island is a natural chapel formed from entwined trees guided by human hands. This living, breathing church is a monument to nature surrounded by mature oak and maple trees. It is open to visitors and can even host weddings of up to 100 people. The surrounding gardens include a hedge labyrinth and Monet-inspired pond.

Waitomo Caves, Waikato

A network of subterranean caves and rivers snakes beneath Waitomo’s verdant hills in New Zealand’s north-east, harbouring magical, glowing caverns. Tours by boat and on foot take visitors deep underground to witness the phenomena, with thousands of glow worms lighting the cave ceiling like a sea of white-blue stars. Above ground, the area has more not-to-be-missed natural marvels, including the beautiful Marokopa Falls and limestone Mangapohue Natural Bridge.

White Island, Bay of Plenty

New Zealand’s most active cone volcano, the imposing White Island (also known as Whakaari) forms part of the Pacific Ring of Fire and sits 30 miles offshore from North Island’s east coast. A sudden, explosive eruption in 2019 effectively ended guided tours to the island, but scenic flights over its steaming crater, sulfurous vents, and acid lakes are still available, taking off from nearby Whakatane, Rotorua, or Tauranga.

Bridal Veil Falls, Waikato

Picture-perfect Bridal Veil Falls is ensconced in a region of the North Island known for its natural attractions, including the must-see Waitomo Caves. A classic beauty dropping 180 feet over a hard volcanic lip into a deep pool framed by lush greenery, the falls are the perfect place to immerse in nature, with walkways leading through the forest and along the Pakoka River to viewing points at its top and base.

Waiotapu, Rotorua

This geothermal wonderland powered by Earth’s core was dubbed ‘Hellsgate’ by famous playwright George Bernard Shaw, due to its steaming landscape of colorful sulfurous springs. The highlight – Champagne Pool – appears like a giant artist’s palette of electric blue, orange and yellow. Surrounded by bubbling mud cauldrons, neon-green ponds, and spraying pools, visitors can lose themselves in the surreal scene by following the secure tracks around the site. Arrive before 10:15am to catch Lady Knox Geyser’s dramatic daily eruption.

Now check out more natural wonders around the world...

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Appreciate all your thoughts!

10 replies to this topic

Earnslaw Burn is the ultimate - if you can afford it!

What sort of glacier experience would you like? And what ages are the kids?

Note - the Southern Lakes Heli flight has JUST a fly-by of Earnslaw Glacier/ Burn. It seems that they have several other glaciers to choose from for landing - depending on the weather/ snow/ ice conditions.

Several of us volunteers will highly recommend the HeliWorks Earnslaw Burn experiences. Theyrethe only heli company with permission to land at Earnslaw Burn - below the glacier. It is an absolutely fantastic experience.

I was lucky enough to do the 'whole hog' ... a yhour day with heli flight to Milford Sound , Cruise , back past Earnslaw Glacier - landed briefly on snow nearby - then down into the valley for lunch by a waterfall - stunning... plus another snow landing on the way back to Queenstown . Worth every single penny!

i ve done them all. a heli hike on fox glacier and walking on the glacier ice (not a snow landing) is the best. to actually see, hear, taste, feel the glacier is incredible. look up the flying fox with fox guiding.

the earnslaw burn and landing in the earnslaw burn valley with sheer cliffs and waterfalls around you and the glaciers above is a great trip - but actually being on a glacier is much much much more.

Hello - thanks for the replies! My children are well above the age limit. We are not looking for a snow experience as we live an area of plenty of snow. Rather we want a true glacier experience - blue ice! thanks for the guidance!!!

I've posted a link to the tour suggested by my travel agent. Really hard to tell is the experience is just snow or if it has ice caves, blue ice, etc. I don't want to be disappointed as it's so expensive for 3 ppl!

https://www.glaciersouthernlakes.co.nz/scenic-helicopter-flights/queenstown-helicopter-tours/earnslaw-burn-glacier-landing/

Post #5 - yeah, I read the glacier landing as just that - a landing, with ability to explore immediate area...

Whereas the HeliHikes up Fox Glacier are full on, fully kitted up/ roped, crossing crevasses etc (Poppy will confirm).

... I feel that you might be looking for more of the adventure of a the Fox Heli Hike...

ski plan on Tasman Glacier sounds fabulous - can you suggest a vendor? I found the one vendor for the Fox heli-hike. thank you!

If you want blue ice and ice cave features, I wouldn't recommend Tasman Glacier - it's relatively flat.

Does your trip include the West Coast? If so, then do the helihike by Fox Glacier Guiding: https://www.foxguides.co.nz/heli-hiking/ The 4--hour Flying Fox tour does not include climbing or ropes, but they do provide crampons.

It is the Extreme Fox All Day Helihike where you are in a harness and actually climb using an ice ax and abseil from the glacier. They provide all equipment.

I was thinking you were asking about the Heliworks tour of Earnslaw Burn. They all land there. It's beautiful, many waterfalls. I don't know if they filmed any of the LOTR movies there, but it's very ethereal. I don't know anything of the associated glacier Southern Lakes lands on.

ETA - Here's the link to the Mount Cook / Tasman Glacier ski planes, if you are still interested: https://www.mtcookskiplanes.com

there are two on the fox glacier - the flying fox which is crampons and guided walking on the ice. a great trip. but we took our two kids on the extreme fox. what a trip of the lifetime and a step up in adventure. no experience needed. our kids were about 6 and 18 when we did it. it was magical. absailing pinnacles, climbing in crevasses, arches, caves. https://www.foxguides.co.nz/experiences/extreme-fox-all-day-heli-hike/

i totally recommend fox guiding and actually exploring and walking on a glacier ice and caves and arches. most other glaciers are just snow landings on the glaciers)

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You Can Find Incredible Gemstones at This Remote New Zealand Beach — Including Garnet, Jasper, and Quartz

The South Island of New Zealand is hiding this hidden gem — err, gems.

Evie Carrick is a writer and editor who’s lived in five countries and visited well over 50. She now splits her time between Colorado and Paris, ensuring she doesn't have to live without skiing or L'As du Fallafel.

Keesha Popham/Getty Images

Tucked along the southernmost shore of New Zealand’s South Island is a hidden gem — lots of them. When the tide drops at the aptly named Gemstone Beach it reveals a mass of stones rounded by the waves, including the occasional semi-precious gemstone, including garnet, quartz, jasper, nephrite, or even sapphire. As the water rinses the stones, their true colors appear — turquoise, sea green, and rust red.

Tripadvisor reviewer Greg T. , who visited Gemstone Beach in 2023 noted that “if you are into unique stones generally smoothed by the wave action, large and small then this is for you! [The] best time is as the tide is going out as the stones are still wet and you can see all the differences in the stone … everyone looks around the main entrance but [the] best ones are over the stream.”

Other than the occasional rock hunter, Gemstone Beach tends to be quiet. It is located on the remote Te Waewae Bay near the small country township of Orepuki.

The coastline here is wild and rugged — and the waves are rough. The waves ensure the beach is in a constant state of change, with the surface shifting from sand to stones and back again as storms arrive, waves roll in, and tides shift. This movement is constantly revealing new stones and, occasionally, semi-precious gems.

Patrick Gijsbers/Getty Images

That movement also delivers some of the best surf in New Zealand . Surfers clad in thick winter wetsuits brave the cold and rough waters — and are rewarded with some of the country’s best surfing. Gemstone Beach is also suited for surfcasting, a type of fishing where you cast into the breaking waves on a beach. 

This hidden gem of a beach — literally — is often overlooked. It is set along the southernmost shore and is a whopping eight hours from the South Island’s main city of Christchurch and almost three hours from Queenstown.

One of the best ways to see it is via the Southern Scenic Route , a beautiful drive that links Queenstown, Fiordland, and Te Anau, and connects to the iconic Milford Road to Dunedin which passes through Orepuki, Riverton, and The Catlins . In addition to the gem-rich beach, the drive passes by the South Island’s glacier-formed lakes and sites like Fiordland National Park , and provides glimpses of the world’s smallest penguin, the at-risk little penguins (aka, blue penguins or kororā).

Orepuki, the gateway to Gemstone Beach, is located 20 minutes from Riverton and 50 minutes from Invercargill. For the best chance of spotting stones, go at low tide. Just remember to leave what you find.

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