South Island’s Top Five Must Visits
The South Island in New Zealand is known for its breathtaking landscapes, friendly people and wide range of activities. If you haven’t been, then you are truly missing out. To name a few, places like Queenstown is said to be the adventure capital of the world, Wanaka is a haven for nature lovers and Franz Josef is perfect for those who want to explore New Zealand’s glaciers. Christchurch is a major city hub within the South Island and is a multi-cultural city known for its diversity, world famous street art and there is no shortage when it comes to relaxing at cafes and bars or enjoying a romantic fine dining experience. It sets the scene as a basecamp for adventurers exploring the South Island, the Southern Alpine region to the south, the Banks Peninsula a short drive away, Kahurangi National Park to the north and the highest of mountains in the West Coast region.
There is something for everyone in New Zealand’s South Island and here are some of the must visits you don’t want to miss out on:
Queenstown Adventure
Queenstown is a must-do for thrill seekers and adrenaline junkies. It is an outdoor lover’s playground with a range of activities on offer such as bungee jumping, sky diving, canyon swinging, jet boating, white water rafting and so much more.
The Southern Alps
The Southern Alps is known as the mountain range extending along much of the length of New Zealand’s South Island, reaching its greatest elevations near the range’s western side. The tallest mountain soaring 3000 metres high is Aoraki Mount Cook and can be explored on foot with both beginner and immediate tracks starting from the Mount Cook village.
Visit Milford Sounds
Milford Sound is a fiord in the south west of New Zealand’s South Island. It is located within Fiordland National Park a heritage listed site, near the town of Te Anau. Milford Sound is one of New Zealand’s most famous tourist destinations, with hundreds of thousands of visitors each year. The magical beauty that Milford Sound offers is something that cannot be missed.
Wanaka
Wanaka is a small town located in the Otago region of New Zealand’s South Island. It is situated at the southern end of Lake Wanaka, next to the Clutha River. Wanaka is a popular destination for outdoor activities such as skiing, snowboarding and is a gateway to ski resorts such as Cardrona, Treble Cone and Coronet Peak.
Franz Josef
Franz Josef is a small town located on the west coast of New Zealand’s South Island. It is a popular tourist destination due to its close proximity to Franz Josef Glacier and Fox Glacier. The town offers a range of activities and tours such as glacier helicopter rides, Heli-Hikes on the glacier and a guided walk of the Glacier Valley.
Kayak in Abel Tasman
Abel Tasman National Park is located at the top of the South Island and is a must-do for those who love the outdoors. The park offers a range of activities such as sailing, hiking and camping. Come close to marine life and explore the Abel Tasman coastline by kayak, an experience you won’t forget.