The rugged and wild wildernesses of New Zealand’s South Island are some of the most spectacular in the world.
With dramatic fjords, crystal clear lakes, wild mountains, exciting ski-fields and pristine hidden bays, the variety of scenery is one of the South Island’s biggest draw cards. But there is far more than just pretty scenery that draws visitors to its shores. New Zealand’s oldest settlement, Christchurch is home to interesting museums and numerous wildlife parks, where the country’s most iconic species – the flightless kiwi – can be seen.
Renowned for its world-class wines, many of the country’s best vineyards are on the North Island. The top of the South Island however does have a number of excellent boutique vineyards around the towns of Nelson and Blenheim. Outside of award-winning sauvignon blanc, the region also encompasses the tiny but exquisite Abel Tasman National Park and the beautiful drowned valleys of Marlborough Sound.
The small town of Franz Josef on the Waiho River is the gateway to two of the island’s iconic glaciers – Fox and Franz Josef glaciers. Both glaciers can be explored on foot or by helicopter whilst Westland Tai Poutini National Park is on the town’s doorstep. There are a number of walks suitable for everyone that pass through beautiful forests including Callery Gorge and Canavans Knob walk. Nearby Mount Cook, also known as ‘Aoraki’ is New Zealand’s highest peak (3,724m) and is flanked by Tasman, the country’s largest glacier.
To the south, Milford Sound is one of the country’s most visited destinations. This remote, steep-sided fjord runs 15km inland from the Tasman Sea. Most visitors cruise Milford Sound, but flight-seeing is also possible. Seals and dolphins are common whilst it is possible to see whales and the endangered Fiordland crested penguin.
Undoubtably the South Island’s major highlight, Queenstown has been dubbed the Adventure Capital of the World, boasting some 220 adventure travel activities from mountain biking and jet boating to bungy jumping and skydiving. Its picturesque setting on the shores of Lake Wakatipu with the splendid “Remarkables” mountain range as a back drop make it a popular holiday destination. With four ski fields in close proximity it offers sensational snow sport opportunities making the town a year-round attraction.
Best places to go in the South Island
Christchurch
South Island’s largest urban settlement – Christchurch – is also the country’s oldest. Rattled by major earthquakes in 2011, the city was rapidly rebuilt and is now greener and more accessible than ever. Christchurch is home to a major airport, interesting museums and numerous wildlife parks where you can view the emblematic flightless kiwi.
Dunedin
The principal city of Otago, historic Dunedin is packed with prominent heritage buildings including Speight’s Brewery, Larnarch Castle and the railway station. To the east lies the Otago Peninsula which shelters the world’s only mainland breeding colony of royal albatross, alongside rare species such as yellow-eyed penguins and seals.
Queenstown
The undisputed adrenalin capital of New Zealand, Queenstown boasts some 220 adventure travel activities from mountain biking and jet boating to bungy jumping and skydiving. Set on the shores of Lake Wakatipu this picturesque resort town is also a centre for snow sports in winter with four ski fields in close proximity.
Milford Sound
One of New Zealand’s most visited destinations, this remote, steep-sided fjord runs 15km inland from the Tasman Sea, with two permanent waterfalls and dozens of temporary cascades after heavy rain. Most visitors cruise Milford Sound, but flight-seeing is also possible. Seals and dolphins are common and it is possible to see whales and the endangered Fiordland crested penguin.
Franz Josef & Mount Cook
Named after an Austrian emperor, the township of Franz Josef is gateway to two of South Island’s most famous glaciers, whose ever-changing terrain can be explored on foot and by helicopter. Also known as ‘Aoraki’, Mount Cook is New Zealand’s loftiest summit (3,724m), and is flanked by Tasman, the country’s largest glacier.
Top Of The South
Best known for its stunning coastline, mild climate and world-famous white wines, this region encompasses the tiny but exquisite Abel Tasman National Park and the drowned valleys of Marlborough Sounds. Stow away to secluded Arthurs Bay or savour acclaimed sauvignon blanc with sustainably caught fresh seafood in historic Nelson, South Island’s oldest city
Luxury accommodation in the South Island
Rimu Lodge
Sometimes called “the land that time forgot” this is a region of snow-covered mountains, forest and gentle farmland where the Hokitika River runs down to the sea.
Te Waonui Forest Retreat
Discover the wonders of the South Island’s wild west coast at peaceful Te Waonui Forest Retreat
Milford Sound Lodge
Milford Sound Lodge sits within the breathtaking UNESCO World Heritage Listed Fiordland National Park in New Zealand’s South Island.
The Lindis
Located in the remote and starkly beautiful Ahuriri Valley, The Lindis is a hidden paradise far from civilisation.
The Rees Hotel
Located 2.5 kilometres outside of beautiful Queenstown, The Rees Hotel is perfectly positioned right on the shores of Lake Wakatipu.
Split Apple Retreat
Located at the very top of New Zealand’s South Island, Split Apple Retreat sits on the shores of beautiful Tasman Bay, one hours drive north of the fascinating town of Nelson.
The George
Located in the heart of Christchurch overlooking beautiful Hagley Park, The George offers superb accommodation and impeccable service
Matakauri Lodge
Matakauri Lodge echoes the perfect proportions of its crisp alpine surrounds with elements of warm, personable service and fiery interior accents.
South Island Itineraries
Lakes & Mountains of the South Island
Christchurch - Mt Cook - QueenstownExplore some the South Island's most inspiring landscapes staying at a range of beautiful lodges
New Zealand’s North Island
North IslandExplore New Zealand in style staying at two of the country’s most luxurious lodges
Luxury North Island
Cape Kidnappers - Kauri CliffsWith breathtaking mountain scenery, shimmering lakes, picturesque coastline and idyllic white-sand beaches, New Zealand is regarded as one of the world’s most beautiful destinations.
Luxury Lodges of the North and South
Cape Kidnappers - Kauri Cliffs - QueenstownExperience the very best New Zealand has to offer staying at three superb luxury lodges in three distinct regions across the north and south islands.
