Travelling through New Zealand’s South Island is an experience like no other. With its snowcapped Southern Alps, pristine lakes, rugged coastlines and wild rainforests, the raw beauty of the South Island knows no bounds. Here, I’ve shared the absolute best places to visit on the South Island of New Zealand.
New Zealand’s South Island has something for everyone. It’s the perfect destination for adventure seekers, nature lovers and culture enthusiasts. I spent six months in New Zealand. Four of those months were spent in the South Island and it still didn’t feel like enough time to see everything it had to offer.
Planning a trip to New Zealand can feel like a mammoth task. It’s not the largest of countries, but it’s full of incredible sights and unique things to do. Narrowing down the best places to visit isn’t a quick job by any means.
While I do believe the North Island is sometimes overlooked, the South Island has such a diversity of landscapes and activities. A trip to the South Island of New Zealand is an absolute must on any visit to the country.
Whether you’re planning to do a road trip through the South Island or take the bus, there are destinations on this list to suit all itineraries.
I hope this post sharing the best places to visit on the South Island helps you to plan your dream trip to New Zealand.
Read next: Considering a solo trip to New Zealand? Here’s all you need to know
Milford Sound
Starting with an obvious one here, but is any trip to New Zealand complete without seeing the wonderous Milford Sound?
Part of the magnificent Fiordland National Park, Milford Sound is known to be the ‘Eighth Wonder of the World’. Milford Sound truly captivates visitors with its raw and breathtaking beauty. With towering waterfalls, giant mountain peaks and crystal clear waters, Milford Sound is one-of-a-kind in New Zealand.
There are several ways to explore this majestic area. Most tourists decide to take a scenic cruise in Milford Sound, with Southern Discoveries offering a stop at the unique underwater observatory. For those who want to see the fiord from a different perspective, there is the option to kayak in Milford Sound with Rosco’s kayaks.
There is also the chance to get a bird’s eye view of Milford Sound by opting to sign up for a scenic flight. I never got to do this while in New Zealand, and really wish I had. I’ve only heard good things.
For those who enjoy hiking, the Milford area is home to one of New Zealand’s Great Walks, the Milford Track. You’ll need to plan your hike in advance, and it doesn’t come cheap, but it’s known to be one of the greatest hikes on the planet.
The journey to Milford Sound is an entire adventure in itself. The drive from Queenstown to Milford Sound is one of the most stunning drives on the South Island of New Zealand.
Whatever you plan to do on the South Island, make sure a visit to Milford Sound is included in your itinerary.
Doubtful Sound
Doubtful Sound is another beautiful fiord ready to explore in Fiordland National Park. Many visitors opt to visit the popular Milford Sound, but a trip to Doubtful Sound shouldn’t be disregarded.
Being so far off the beaten tourist path, Doubtful Sound truly boasts untouched wilderness. It may be a little less accessible than Milford, but it’s no less impressive. Doubtful Sound is impressive in its own way. In fact, it’s much bigger than Milford, and a scenic cruise there feels like venturing into one of the most remote parts of the world.
As the fiord is in a very isolated region, the only way to visit Doubtful Sound is by joining a tour. You can opt for a day visit from the nearby Queenstown, or do an overnight tour.
Doubtful Sound remains one of my favourite sights in New Zealand. It’s magnificent on a scale beyond belief. I visited on a rainy day, and there were waterfalls in all directions. It was hard to know where to look.
If you only have time to visit one fiord, I’ve written all about Milford Sound or Doubtful Sound to help you decide which. Spoiler alert: if you can do both, do both.
Mount Cook National Park
This national park lies in the heart of New Zealand’s South Island. Home to Aoraki Mount Cook, New Zealand’s highest mountain, the park boasts a landscape of snow-capped peaks, glaciers and incredible turquoise lakes.
Mount Cook National Park is also home to one of the most popular day hikes in New Zealand – the Hooker Valley track.
The Hooker Valley track is a popular 10km hike which takes you through the stunning valley to Hooker Lake. If you go on a clear day, you’ll be rewarded with incredible views of Mount Cook. The Hooker Valley track is relatively flat, so it’s a very accessible track. There are not many hikes in the world where you are rewarded with views like these with such little effort.
Mount Cook National Park is home to several other hiking tracks including the Mueller Hut hike, Sealy Tarns and the Tasman Glacier walk. For another easy hike, I’d recommend the walk to the Tasman Glacier. If you’re lucky, you’ll get to see icebergs floating in the lake in front of the glacier.
Another popular activity in Mount Cook National Park is to take a scenic flight over New Zealand’s tallest mountain and the surrounding area. This will give you a birds eye view of the Southern Alps and the breathtaking landscape.
For those who like to keep their feet on the ground, consider a visit to Mount Cook Village where you’ll find the interactive visitor centre and the famous Hermitage Hotel.
If you’re planning to visit Mount Cook, I’ve written all about how to spend one day in Mount Cook National Park.
Lake Pukaki
Lake Pukaki is one of the most striking lakes in New Zealand. Picture a giant bright turquoise lake with Mount Cook in the background. This is Lake Pukaki.
Lake Pukaki can be visited as part of a trip to Mount Cook National Park. You’ll drive alongside it for a while and there are several photo stops along the way. If you’re skipping Mount Cook, there are still a couple of viewpoints along the main road.
In fact, one of my favourite freedom camping sites in New Zealand is one of the Lake Pukaki car parks. Watching the sunset and sunrise over Mount Cook with the lake while sipping tea in the back of my campervan… it doesn’t get much better than this.
Lake Tekapo
One of my favourite places in New Zealand is Tekapo. This tiny town sits on the shores of Lake Tekapo and is surrounded by the Southern Alps.
Tekapo is known for its gorgeous lake, hot pools and of course, the famous stargazing. Tekapo is part of the Mackenzie Dark Sky Reserve and is one of the best places in New Zealand to stargaze. You can join a tour to do this, or grab a blanket and head away from the light to do yourself.
To see the famous stargazing equipment without joining a tour, hike up to the top of Mount John, a fantastic day hike in New Zealand. While you won’t be able to access the equipment without joining a stargazing tour, you can still see it from afar. The hike only takes around an hour to get up, and also offers immense views of the surrounding area.
Tekapo is also famous for its lupins, a wildflower that blooms in the spring and summer. While they can be found all over the South Island, Tekapo is one of the best places to see the lupins.
Here are all the things to do in Tekapo.
Malborough Sounds
The picturesque Malborough Sounds area is a network of valleys carved out by ancient rivers. These sounds are known for their tranquil and mesmerising beauty. The waters are also home to an array of marine life including dolphins, seals and whales.
To explore the area more, consider hiking the Queen Charlotte Track, swimming with dolphins or embarking on a scenic road trip through the network of roads and stunning vistas.
If you’re starting your road trip in Picton, a visit to Malborough Sounds is the perfect start to your South Island adventure.
Abel Tasman National Park
Abel Tasman is a unique National Park in the north of the South Island. This coastal haven boasts golden sand beaches, crystal clear waters and is a nature lover’s dream. There is nowhere else like it on the South Island. If you’re after a beach getaway with a tropical feel, Abel Tasman is the answer.
Despite its remote location, Abel Tasman is full of exciting things to do. From kayaking, snorkelling and scenic boat trips, Abel Tasman offers an array of interactive activities to get you closer to New Zealand’s amazing nature.
The park is also home to the famous Abel Tasman Coastal Track, one of New Zealand’s famous Great Walks. The hike winds through lush rainforests and offers stunning views as far as the eye can see. It will take you 3 or 4 days to complete the track. It’s arguably one of the greatest ways to explore this wonder of nature.
Glacier Country (Franz Josef Glacier and Fox Glacier)
New Zealand’s South Island is home to two of the world’s most famous glaciers – the Franz Josef Glacier and the Fox Glacier. These giant rivers of ice flow down through the Southern Alps and give visitors a bucketlist opportunity to see them.
Glacier Country is situated on the West Coast of the South Island. While the area is relatively remote, it’s still well-connected and is by far one of the best places to visit on the South Island.
At the top of many people’s dream activity list in New Zealand is to embark on a “heli hike”. A helicopter will take you up onto the glacier, land and you’ll get the chance to hike around the glacier. There are really not many places in the world where you can do this. You can also choose to take a scenic flight over the area.
If you’d prefer to keep your feet on the ground or simply don’t have the budget to splurge on a scenic flight, fear not… there are several hikes in the area which give you glimpses of the glacier.
One of the most famous hikes is the Alex Knob track. This is by far one of the most unique and best day hikes in New Zealand. It takes approximately eight hours to complete but gives you incredible views of the Franz Josef Glacier. It’s a tough hike and isn’t for everyone, but the reward makes it worthwhile.
For a shorter hike, consider the Fox Glacier Walk. It only takes about an hour and doesn’t have much incline, making it a suitable hike for most. You’ll get to see the Fox Glacier in the distance once you reach the viewpoint.
One of my favourite hikes in the area is the Lake Matheson hike. It’s one of the most popular walks and it doesn’t take long to realise why. If you go on a day with the perfect weather, the lake reflects the surrounding mountains creating a breathtaking sight.
A visit to the Franz Josef Glacier and the Fox Glacier is a must on any trip to New Zealand.
Klook.comGreymouth
If you’re planning to drive the west coast of the South Island, Greymouth is a great start/end destination. While there’s not a huge amount to do in the town itself, it’s the start/end point for both the West Coast drive and the famous TranzAlpine train.
About 30 minutes north of Greymouth are the Punakaiki Pancake Rocks. This is a stunning area of natural beauty. The unique limestone rocks have formed an incredible site of blowholes, rock pools and strange formations. It’s a must visit on any epic South Island road trip.
If you have a campervan, consider staying in the Cobden car park. It allows overnight freedom camping for self-contained vehicles. It’s right on the coast and has some incredible sunsets.
Hokitika
The West Coast is without a doubt one of the most beautiful drives on the South Island of New Zealand. The area is filled with untamed landscapes including mountains, rainforests and wild coastal areas.
One of the best places to visit along the West Coast is Hokitika, an old goldmining town. Here, you’ll find the Hokitika Gorge, a magnificent scenic reserve with suspension bridges and turquoise pools. You only have to see the colour of the water to realise why this area is so popular.
Haast Pass
The Haast Pass is another scenic drive on the South Island of New Zealand. It’s the perfect stretch of road to build into your dream New Zealand road trip.
Connecting Wanaka with the West Coast, the Haast Pass has an almost Jurassic feel to it. With powerful waterfalls, mountain passes and stunning green scenery, it’s a beautiful area of the country.
Some of the top things to see while driving the Haast Pass include Thunder Creek Falls, Fantail Falls and the famous Blue Pools.
The Blue Pools are known for their striking turquoise blue colour. You can access the pools via a short walk. (Note: as of November 2023, the Blue Pools Track is closed and you cannot view the pools.)
Queenstown
No trip to New Zealand’s South Island would be complete with a trip to Queenstown. Known as the adventure capital of New Zealand and the world, it’s one of the best places in the country to fuel your adrenaline side.
From bungy jumping and skydiving to jet boating and giant swings, Queenstown has something for everyone. It’s also a popular ski area, with four famous ski resorts to choose from including Coronet Peak, The Remarkables, Cardrona and Treble Cone.
Even if you’re not planning to do anything adventurous, Queenstown is still one of the best places to visit in New Zealand’s South Island. It’s home to the Onsen Hot Pools, a luxurious spa offering incredible views of the valley and Shotover river.
With its picturesque setting on the jaw-dropping Lake Wakatipu and its convenient location close to other famous places such as Milford Sound, a trip to Queenstown is an absolute must.
Here’s all the best things to do in Queenstown.
Glenorchy
The charming town of Glenorchy sits on the Northern tip of the giant Lake Wakatipu. The picturesque town is surrounded by mountains and has an almost ‘Scottish Highlands’ feel to it.
The drive from Queenstown to Glenorchy is one of the most beautiful drives in New Zealand, if not the planet. I’m always surprised more people aren’t talking about it. It’s genuinely one of the most breathtaking road trips I have ever done.
Glenorchy is famous for its hiking. There are several short walks in the area, but it’s also the gateway for the famous Routeburn Track. This 3-day hike is one of New Zealand’s Great Walks. I was gutted I didn’t get the chance to do it, but it’s at the top of my list for when I return.
The area is another hot spot for Lord of the Rings Locations. It’s where the famous “Isengard” scene was filmed and you can even visit the exact spot yourself.
Arrowtown
Arrowtown is a small mining town about a 20-minute drive from Queenstown. It almost feels like stepping into the wild west. I’m not sure there’s anywhere else in New Zealand quite like it. Back in the 1800s, locals discovered the Shotover river was full of gold which lead to a gold-rush in the area. You can still sometimes find gold in the river today.
Arrowtown is incredibly picturesque. There are lots of small boutique shops along the main street as well as cafes and traditional pubs.
While visiting Arrowtown, you can learn more about the town’s history at the museum. There’s also a short walk to the Chinese Settlement from the 1800s. And of course, don’t leave Arrowtown without having a go at gold panning.
Arrowtown is one of the best places in New Zealand to see the autumn foliage.
Cardrona
Cardrona is a small village just beyond the Crowne Range, between Queenstown and Wanaka. It’s famous for its ski slopes, but a stop here is worth it for other reasons.
Cardrona is home to the famous Cardrona pub. This pub was built in 1863. I don’t think pubs get more homely than this. It’s cosy, has a great atmosphere and serves up some delicious food.
Cardrona is also home to the famous “bra fence”. Every year, passers-by lay their bras on the fence to raise money for charity. It’s certainly a unique feature…
Te Anau
Te Anau is a small town on New Zealand’s South Island. It’s the gateway to Fiordland National Park. Most people skip straight through this delightful town and go straight to Milford Sound, but if you have time to spend a night here, I’d highly recommend it.
Te Anau has its own glowworm caves, and you can take a scenic boat trip to see them. There’s also a small bird sanctuary owned by the Department of Conservation. You can enter for free and see some of the native endangered birds in the area including the flightless takahe and kākā.
The Te Anau area is also home to many Lord of the Rings filming locations. If you’re an avid fan, consider your own self-guided tour or join an organised tour. The Mavora Lakes area in particular is home to some iconic filming locations. Even if you’re not a fan, this jaw-dropping scenery is impressive.
Christchurch
Christchurch is the South Island’s largest city and my personal favourite city in New Zealand. The city was destroyed by an earthquake in 2011 and is still being rebuilt today. It has a vibrant and modern feel to it and isn’t too crowded.
With a large international airport, Christchurch is a popular destination to start or end your trip in New Zealand’s South Island. Many visitors opt to explore the area before commencing a road trip from Christchurch to Queenstown to see more of this fabulous country.
If you have the time, plan to spend at least a day in Christchurch. There’s plenty of activities to keep you entertained including a visit to the earthquake museum or trying a bite to eat at the Riverside Market.
One of the best things to do in Christchurch is visit the International Antarctic Centre. The centre gives you an educational and interactive insight into Antarctica as well as the chance to experience what it’s like to be in the polar region. You’ll also have the chance to meet huskies.
Akaroa and the Banks Peninsula
Close to Christchurch is the Banks Peninsula, home to the town of Akaroa. It’s known to be one of New Zealand’s most unique and beautiful areas. With stunning countryside that’s steeped in history, there’s an array of activities and things to explore in the area.
Akaroa is the gateway to the Banks peninsula. This lovely little harbour town is known for its French heritage and tranquil atmosphere. Beyond Akaroa, visitors can explore the rolling ancient volcanic countryside through hiking and boat trips.
While in the Akaroa area, consider visiting Lyttleton. It’s a little harbour town just outside of Christchurch. It has numerous small boutiques and coffee shops. It’s well worth a wander round if you have the time.
Kaikoura
Kaikoura is a peaceful fishing town on the east coast. It’s one of the best places to visit in New Zealand’s South Island if you want to get up close and personal with marine life.
Due to the unique underwater landscape, Kaikoura’s coast is home to an array of marine life including several fascinating species of whales and dolphins. And in Kaikoura, it’s possible to go whale watching, take a scenic whale watching flight or even swim with the resident dolphins.
Swimming with wild dolphins in Kaikoura is one of the most unique and wonderful things to do in New Zealand. It’s a bucketlist worthy activity and certainly one to remember. I also loved the whale watching flight. There’s something so special about seeing these beautiful giants from above.
Kaikoura is also famous for seals, and it’s easy to see them in their thousands. Just a quick walk along Kaikoura’s peninsula takes you to their nesting grounds where hundreds of them call home.
If you’re visiting Kaikoura, be sure to read my guide on all the things to do there.
Tip: Between Christchurch and Kaikoura is Hanmer Springs, a small resort town known for its hot pools. If you’re driving yourself, you may enjoy a quick stop to relax in the pools.
Stewart Island
Stewart Island lies just off the south coast of New Zealand’s South Island. Due to its location and the time it takes to get there, many visitors skip Stewart Island. But I genuinely believe Stewart Island is one of the top places to visit in New Zealand.
It’s beautiful, remote and feels like going back in time. It only has a population of around 400 people so it’s a really interesting place to explore.
Here are the 20 best things to do on Stewart Island.
Stewart Island is home to an array of wildlife include the native bird, the kiwi. In fact, it’s one of the best places to see wild kiwis in New Zealand. You can join an organised tour, or go wild kiwi hunting yourself. I saw one when walking back through the woods after sunset. Remember to use a head torch with a red light. The bright lights from our phones can stun the kiwi bird and potentially blind them.
If you’re a keen bird watcher, consider a short trip to Ulva Island. This protected island houses many native birds which are endangered. You can spend an hour or two walking round the trails to see what birds you find. We also saw some seals and dolphins in the distance.
Another exciting activity in Stewart Island is Aurora hunting. As Stewart Island is so far south and in the Southern Hemisphere, the Southern Lights are a common appearance here, especially in the winter months. You can check the forecast for the Southern Lights before going out hunting.
Bluff
To get to Stewart Island you’ll need to go via Bluff, a small town right at the bottom of the South Island. Most people will simply pass straight through Bluff, but there’s one exciting activity you can do here – cage diving with great white sharks.
Honestly, cage diving with great white sharks is one of the most unique and wonderful things you can do in New Zealand. I had dreamed of doing this for so long, and it exceeded my expectations.
There’s only one operator who offers this activity – Shark Experience Bluff. Safety for both guests and the sharks is their number one priority. It’s clear how passionate they are about these incredible creatures.
The activity doesn’t come cheap, but there aren’t many places in the world where you can cage dive with sharks ethically and safely.
Dunedin
The city of Dunedin is a vibrant and unique spot in New Zealand’s South Island. Home to New Zealand’s oldest university, the University of Otago, the city has a lively atmosphere.
The Otago Peninsula surrounds Dunedin and offers unique wildlife encounters. This includes having the chance to see the Yellow-eyed penguin Colony. The area is also home to the Royal Albatross Centre.
No visit to Dunedin is complete without visiting the steepest street in the world, Baldwin Street. If you can face the pain, attempt to walk up to the top of the hill. Good luck!
If you’re driving from Dunedin to Christchurch, be sure to make a quick stop at the Moeraki Boulders. These famous boulders can be found on Koekohe beach on the east coast. These boulders are almost alien-like. They were formed by the hardening of Paleocene mudstone. They really are one of New Zealand’s most unique sights.
The Catlins
If you’re driving from Bluff to Christchurch, consider taking a slightly longer route through The Catlins. This rugged area is well-off the beaten tourist path and boasts plenty of unspoiled natural beauty. It’s a fantastic option to add into your New Zealand road trip.
Must visit spots in the Catlins include Purakaunui Falls, McLean Falls and Cathedral Caves.
Here’s a fantastic itinerary for the Catlins.
Nelson Lakes
Nelson Lakes is a real hidden gem in New Zealand. I had done lots of research prior to my road trip but didn’t see this spot come up much. I’m so glad I decided to go there. It is hands down one of my favourite places in New Zealand.
Nelson Lakes is about a ninety-minute drive from Picton. Its setting is truly magnificent. It’s the perfect place to go off grid and take in the jaw-dropping scenery.
There’s a brilliant campsite called Kerr Bay which sits right on the shores of Lake Rotoiti. Kerr Bay Campsite is one of the best campsites on the South Island. It’s unbelievably beautiful setting and off grid location makes it one of the most serene and dreamy campsites. I enjoyed it there so much that I ended up heading back there a second time.
You won’t need to spend more than a day or two in Nelson Lakes, but if you’re looking for somewhere to have an off grid camping experience then this could be your answer.
If you’re a keen hiker, consider the Mount Robert Circuit. This challenging but rewarding day hike offers panoramic views of the area. It was one of my favourite hikes I did in New Zealand. Another option for a day hike is the Saint Arnaud Range Track. This is a more challenging hike but well worth it.
There are also several shorter hikes which start in the Kerr Bay Campsite grounds.
Blenheim
Blenheim has been put on the map for one reason and one reason only – its vineyards. Blenheim is one of New Zealand’s top wine-growing regions. There are numerous vineyards and wine cellars in the area.
You can opt to join an organised tour, but I’d recommend hiring a bike and doing a self-guided tour. You can choose which vineyards to go to and how long to spend there. It’s a beautiful area and has a different landscape to other areas of New Zealand. Hiring a bike allows you to explore at your own pace, take in the scenery and try as much or as little wine as you like.
My favourite stop was at No.1 Family Estate. They specialise in sparkling wines, and it was one of the best I have ever tried.
Arthur’s Pass
This famous road connects the South Island’s east and west coast and weaves its way through the Southern Alps. It’s by far the easiest way to get from Christchurch to the famous West Coast.
Arthur’s Pass is so much more than a drive though. It’s filled with panoramic views, incredible hikes and remote campsites making it the perfect place to include on a road trip.
Wanaka
Wanaka sits in the scenic Mount Aspiring National Park. Nicknamed “Queenstown’s little sister”, Wanaka offers a variety of activities and is well worth a visit.
Like many towns in the South Island, Wanaka has been built on the shores of a beautiful lake in the shadow of giant mountains.
While in Wanaka, make the most of the lake and all it has to offer. There’s the opportunity to take a boat trip round the like, hire a kayak or explore your adventurous side and ride a jet boat.
One of the most famous sights in Wanaka is …. #thatwanakatree. A tree which lives in the lake and in the right conditions, creates a stunning photography opportunity. It’s said to be the most photographed tree in the entire world.
Wanaka is also known for its world class hikes. It’s home to Roys Peak which is one of the most famous hikes in New Zealand. The trail takes you up to an incredible viewpoint where you can get *that* photo. It’s not for the faint of heart, but it’s well worth it.
Due to its popularity, the Roys Peak track can get very crowded. If you’re looking for a quieter alternative, consider the Isthmus Peak trail. It’s about a 20-minute drive from Wanaka and boasts breathtaking views of both Lake Wanaka and Lake Hawea.
If you’re keen to hike but looking for something a little less challenging, the Mount Iron hike might be for you. The hike is only about 40 minutes to the top, and it offers gorgeous views of the town and surrounding mountains.
Timaru
Visitors head to Timaru for one reason and one reason only – its penguins. The beaches of Timaru are home to the world’s smallest penguin, the Little Blue penguin.
The penguins spend their days at sea and after sunset, come back to shores giving spectators the chance to see them.
To see the penguins, head to the Caroline Bay area at dusk. It’s pointed out on Google Maps so should be easy enough to find (clue: follow the crowds). The penguins are very small and can be quite discreet. You’re also more likely to hear them before you see them…
There is a self-contained freedom campsite right by the best place to see the Little Blue Penguins. It’s called Caroline Bay.
Timaru is also home to one of the best bakeries in New Zealand – U-bake. The choices of pies, pastries and cakes here was one of the best I saw and it all tasted incredible.
Omarama
Omarama is a peaceful town in the Southern Canterbury region of the South Island. You’ll likely pass through this town if driving between Christchurch and Queenstown.
Despite its small size, there’s plenty to do in this area and it’s absolutely worth visiting.
First up are the Omarama Clay Cliffs which are a few miles from the main town. These unique cliffs were formed during glacial erosion millions of years ago. There’s a short walk through the cliffs where you can see the formations up close. It’s almost reminiscent of Utah.
In the town itself you’ll find some relaxing hot tubs as well as the famous Wrinkly Rams café.
Gibbston Valley
If you love pinot noir then you’ll want to visit Gibbston Valley. This renowned wine growing spot lies in the heart of the Central Otago region. It’s one of the best places in New Zealand to sample red wine. There are a few stunning wineries to try including the Gibbston Valley Winery and Mt Rosa Wines.
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