Home of New Zealand's Adventure Capital
New Zealand's South Island is dramatic, from the peak of Aoraki to the depths of Milford Sound fjord, adventure awaits you here.
The South Island is the larger of New Zealand’s two main islands, known for its rugged mountains, dramatic fiords and expansive coastlines. Shaped by both Māori and European settlement, the island’s history is tied to exploration, agriculture and gold mining, while today it is celebrated for its world-class wines, outdoor adventures and thriving cities. From the Southern Alps that slice through its spine to the sweeping bays at its edge, the South Island’s landscapes feel vast and elemental, offering a true sense of wilderness.
Below are some of our favourite destinations on New Zealand's South Island:
Fiordland
Fiordland is one of New Zealand’s most awe-inspiring regions, carved by glaciers and cloaked in rainforest. Te Anau is the perfect base for exploring this remote wilderness, with access to famous walking tracks such as the Kepler and Routeburn. Milford Sound, often called the “eighth wonder of the world”, offers dramatic scenery of sheer cliffs and cascading waterfalls, best experienced by boat or scenic flight.
Queenstown
Nestled on the shores of Lake Wakatipu, Queenstown is the South Island’s adrenaline hub and New Zealand's adventure capital. Here, you can bungee jump, jet boat or ski in winter, while also enjoying stunning hiking routes. Despite its adventurous spirit, the Queenstown region balances thrill-seeking with sophistication, offering luxury lodges like Blanket Bay, just along the coast from Queenstown in Glenorchy.
Christchurch
Christchurch blends English heritage with modern resilience. After significant rebuilding following the earthquakes of 2010 and 2011, the city has re-emerged with striking architecture, innovative public spaces and a vibrant food scene. Known as the Garden City, it’s a place of tree-lined avenues and expansive parks, with the nearby Banks Peninsula offering coastal hikes and wildlife encounters, such as the dolphins of Akaroa.
The Marlborough wine region
At the top of the South Island, Marlborough is New Zealand’s largest and most famous wine region, renowned worldwide for its Sauvignon Blanc. Vineyards stretch across sunny valleys, many offering cellar-door tastings and vineyard restaurants. Beyond the wines, the Marlborough Sounds provide a network of sheltered bays and islands, perfect for kayaking, boating and relaxed walking holidays.
South Island Trip Inspiration
Best places to stay in South Island
Top places to visit in New Zealand
Types of New Zealand holidays
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Alistair
New Zealand Expert