Top Destinations on the
South Island
Discover the best places on New Zealand’s South Island—from glacier-carved mountains to stunning lakes, wild coastlines, charming alpine towns, and everything in between!
Unsure of where to go?
Check out our blog about the 25 best places to visit on the South Island for a guide to our favorite spots.
Explore the most popular destinations on New Zealand’s South Island
Whether you’re planning your first New Zealand adventure or your tenth, these top South Island spots deliver jaw-dropping scenery and endless adventure. Dive in and discover which ones to add to your itinerary!
Plan Your South Island Trip
Plan your trip easily with these essential guides about traveling the South Island!
Not sure when to visit the South Island? This guide breaks down what each season has to offer—think snowcapped mountains in winter, colorful lupins in spring, and long sunny days in summer.
I cover the weather, crowds, pricing, and my personal tips to help you figure out the best time to plan your trip based on your travel style. Whether you’re chasing adventure or just great weather, this post will point you in the right direction!
If you’re planning a 10-day South Island adventure, this guide is your go-to companion. I’ve mapped out five epic itineraries based on different routes, interests, and must-see spots.
These are all trips I’ve done myself, and I’ve included the scenic stops, top activities, where to stay, practical tips, and real-world timing to help make your planning easy. These itineraries take the guesswork out of it all—just pick your favorite and get ready to hit the road like a pro!
Flying into Queenstown and need some wheels? This guide walks you through everything you need to rent a car with confidence—from rental requirements and choosing the right vehicle to insurance tips and savvy ways to score the best rate.
Whether you’re traveling solo, with family, or with friends, I’ve been through the process myself and am here to share the tips I wish I knew before heading off. With this guide in your back pocket, you’ll be set to hit the road and start your South Island adventure worry-free!
Christchurch has the largest airport on the South Island, making it the perfect starting point for a New Zealand adventure—and a great place to rent a campervan.
This guide covers everything you need to know before booking, including my go-to rental companies, pick-up/drop-off logistics, van types, pricing, and what to watch out for (like relocation fees). I’ve even included some insider tips (like how to score a 5% discount!) to help you hit the road with confidence and style.
This guide highlights 50+ of my favorite South Island experiences—from record-breaking bungy jumps and glacier hikes to natural hot springs, scenic drives, and unforgettable wildlife cruises. Whether you’re here for the thrills, the views, or a bit of both, this list is packed with handpicked adventures to suit every travel style.
So dive in, get inspired, and start planning your ultimate New Zealand itinerary—trust me, you’re going to want to do it all!
If you love chasing waterfalls, the South Island of New Zealand delivers in a big way—and this guide rounds up the absolute best! From famous stunners like Thunder Creek and Devil’s Punchbowl to lesser-known hidden gems, I cover everything you need to know to find them.
Whether you’re after a quick roadside stop or a scenic hike through the forest, there’s a waterfall here for you. Lace up your boots and let’s go exploring!
If you’re planning to cross from the North to the South Island, this guide is a must-read. I break down everything you need to know about catching the ferry between Wellington and Picton—including booking tips, departure times, and what to expect during the 3.5‑hour scenic cruise through the breathtaking Marlborough Sounds.
Whether you’re traveling with a vehicle or on foot, this guide will help you plan a smooth, scenic, and totally stress-free crossing!
New Zealand is a hiker’s paradise, and the South Island is where the trails really shine! From iconic climbs like Roy’s Peak and Ben Lomond to quiet forest walks and alpine routes you’ve probably never heard of, this guide highlights the best hikes across the island.
For each trail, I share the difficulty, trailhead info, and what makes it truly special. Whether you’re after a quick photo op or a multi-day challenge, there’s something here for every level and adventure style!
Top Attractions and Things to Do
From jaw-dropping hikes to helicopter rides, whale-watching, and fiord cruises—here are my absolute favorite things to do on New Zealand’s South Island!
