A reader from the EarthSurfer community recently reached out and requested a list of places to visit (and some things to do in each one) for South Island, New Zealand. I was happy to oblige.

My Top 15 Places To Visit In South Island, New Zealand

If you’re looking for a walking adventure, breathtaking scenery or a once-in-a-lifetime cultural experience, South Island, New Zealand, should be at the top of your list. I was genuinely awestruck by its snow-capped peaks, serene lakes and otherworldly natural landscapes.

From the glaciers of Aoraki/Mount Cook to the lush rainforests of Fiordland National Park, South Island is a playground for adventurers. Discover its unique beauty by hiking through stunning coastlines or taking in the alpine scenery during a luxury train ride.

Dive deeper into traditional Maori culture by visiting one of their marae, where powerful ceremonies and stories are passed down through generations.

South Island New Zealand offers a lifetime of unforgettable experiences, with top must-see attractions including Mount Cook, Queenstown, and Abel Tasman National Park.

Whether you want to explore the natural wonders of the world or learn more about ancient traditions, South Island New Zealand is a destination I highly recommend for anyone looking for a wonderful, memorable experience. 

Picton

Start your South Island adventure in charming Picton! Situated in Marlborough, it offers access to over 1,500km of the gorgeous Marlborough Sounds coastline, where you might spot fur seals, Rowi kiwi birds, and weka.

Check out the Cob Cottage, a local museum that’s an amazing example of how dwellings used to be constructed in a region without timber. The Cobb House was built int 1860s and restored in the early 1960s, Fascinating stuff! 

Hike or bike Queen Charlotte Track for breathtaking views and incredible photo opportunities. Slow it down with vineyard tours and wine tastings, or sample local beers like Moa Craft Brewery.

Culture lovers should explore the Omaka Aviation Heritage Center and Edwin Fox Museum, preserved from the 19th century with rich convict history. 

Blenheim

Located in the heart of Marlborough wine country, Blenheim offers winery tours and tastings. It’s one of the sunniest places in New Zealand, with an easy-going vibe.

Because of its warm climate, it’s the perfect location for outdoor activities, such as hiking, biking, and swimming. As the largest wine region in the country, Marlborough is world-renowned for its Sauvignon Blanc.

Don’t miss out on the opportunity to explore this stunning area and immerse yourself in its laid-back atmosphere!

Hokitika

Experience a laid-back living, rich Maori carving traditions, and fascinating stories of gold miners and pounamu hunters in Hokitika. Despite its small population of 3100, it is a tourist hotspot for good reason.

If you’re traveling to Queenstown, set aside a night in this charming seaside town. You’ll find yourself surrounded by natural wonders and unforgettable beauty.

Nelson

If it’s your first time visiting New Zealand’s South Island, Nelson is a must-see destination for your list. There are plenty of accommodations and attractions to make you feel at home.

Known as the craft brewing capital of New Zealand and the Top Cider City in the world (according to National Geographic), don’t forget to check out Nelson’s Classic Car Collection Museum, housing some truly stunning antique cars.

Be sure to pick up some of the fantastic local art; glass blowers are particularly popular here! A short trip from Nelson, Cape Farewell, New Zealand’s most northerly point, awaits.

Visit the famous lighthouse, spot some seals basking in the sun, and explore Golden Bay (Te Waikoropupu Springs), home to the largest cold water springs in the southern hemisphere.

Abel Tasman National Park

Abel Tasman National Park is a popular attraction featuring the Instagram-famous Split Apple Rock, accessible by kayak or water taxi. Bad weather may affect visits to the rock, so plan accordingly.

The Park is also great for adrenaline seekers with skydiving and mountain biking at Kaiteriteri, Codger, and Wairoa Gorge. For a leisurely ride, try Tasman’s Great Taste Trail with its vineyards, breweries, orchards, art galleries, and local shops.

Don’t miss Murchison for world-class fly fishing, and bird enthusiasts will appreciate the 35km sanctuary of Farewell Spit. Book a scenic cruise around Abel Tasman National Park for a memorable experience.

Franz Josef Glacier

If you’re planning your first trip to New Zealand, Franz Josef should be on your bucket list! This one-of-a-kind area is home to a glacier within a rainforest, making it an awe-inspiring sight.

There are plenty of activities to choose from in Franz Josef, starting with heli-hikes or skydives over the glaciers. However, with the weather conditions being unpredictable, make sure to keep track of possible cancellations.

For those who prefer low-key adventures that don’t involve glaciers, there are plenty of things to do in town, like clay pigeon shooting, bird watching, greenstone carving and soaking in hot spas.

Before you say goodbye to Franz Josef, don’t forget to drop by the famous Mirror Lake (also known as Lake Matheson). It provides an ideal photo opportunity with the stunning mirror reflection of Mount Cook and the Southern Alps on sunny days.

West Coast

Take in stunning geological formations such as limestone towers dating back 30 million years and refreshing turquoise waters set amidst a rimu forest. 

Water enthusiasts can enjoy Lake Brunner’s range of activities, from jet boating, swimming to trout fishing.

Cyclists can explore the historic Old Ghost Road trail or the West Coast Wilderness Trail. For a cultural experience, take a guided tour with Arahura Greenstone Tours. 

No trip to the West Coast of New Zealand would be complete without a visit to Monteith’s Brewery, a must-see for beer lovers. Touristy? Yes. Memorable? Absolutely.

Canterbury

Looking for things to do in Canterbury? 

Ice is nice at Tasman Glacier – take a scenic boat or bike ride up. Akaroa is a charming historic French settlement and great place to spot Hector dolphins.

Don’t miss Wairapa Valley’s 60 wineries, olive groves, and lavender fields. Or, treat yourself to a luxurious experience at Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools and Spa. And for the adventure seeker, check out the Christchurch Adventure Park – the southern hemisphere’s largest mountain bike park, complete with New Zealand’s longest chairlift! 

Kaikoura

Discover Kaikoura, an enchanting coastal town on the South Island of New Zealand. Here, you can immerse yourself in nature, admire aquatic wildlife, and indulge in delicious seafood while enjoying the beautiful landscape.

Some of the top things to do in Kaikoura include swimming with wild dolphins, watching magnificent whales, walking along the Kaikoura Peninsula, and visiting the iconic Fyffe House, New Zealand’s oldest surviving timber cottage.

Don’t forget to try the delicious crayfish, a must-have delicacy when in Kaikoura!

Christchurch

Christchurch, New Zealand’s third-largest city, was hit by a powerful earthquake in 2011 that caused devastating damage, leaving buildings destroyed, storefronts condemned, and empty lots filled with rubble that are still visible today.

However, there is much more to this vibrant city than ruins and earthquake memorials. 

Take a bus tour to explore the red zone and witness first-hand the areas most affected by the earthquake. The earthquake memorial, spanning a marble wall engraved with names of those who perished, is a touching tribute that visitors often fill with flowers and candles. 

The city’s botanical gardens, Canterbury Museum, and Street Art Trail are also free to visit and offer stunning beauty, historical clothing, Asian art, and recreations of old streets that bring New Zealand’s past to life. 

Don’t miss the Cardboard Cathedral, one of Christchurch’s most iconic landmarks. This fascinating structure was erected as a temporary solution after the earthquake but is now an architectural marvel. 

Aoraki Mount Cook

Aoraki Mount Cook is a must-see destination for New Zealand first-time visitors because of its historical significance and breathtaking views. The highest peak of the country, Mount Cook, served as a training ground for Sir Edmond Hillary before he scaled Mount Everest. 

The area offers ample opportunities for adventure and sightseeing. 

Two popular hikes are the Arthur’s Pass and Hooker Valley Track, each offering magnificent regional views and taking between one and four hours respectively. 

The TranzAlpine Train offers a four-hour journey from Greymouth to Mt Cook National Park or Iceland Village, providing one of the world’s most stunning train rides. 

Greymouth is known for its rich mining history and access to pristine forests, rivers, and beaches. 

For cycling enthusiasts, there’s the Alps 2 Ocean Cycle Trail, a 300km journey from Mt Cook National Park to Oamaru, which takes 4-8 days depending on the preferred trail’s length.

Other notable landmarks include Lake Tekapo, part of the UNESCO Dark Sky Reserve, along with the Mount John observatory. Church of Good Shepard near Lake Tekapo, Arrowtown’s historic gold mining town, and Lake Wakatipu also offer stunning sights for anyone traveling the area. 

Lake Tekapo

Lake Tekapo is one of the most breathtaking spots in New Zealand, offering endless photographic opportunities with its stunning lake as a backdrop and vibrant lupins in bloom.

Swim in the chilly waters, hike, or relax at Tekapo Springs hot pools by day. At night, Lake Tekapo is truly a spectacle as the world’s largest Dark Sky Reserve, offering a clear and unforgettable view of over 10,000 stars and planets in our galaxy. 

Make a trip to the popular Church of the Good Shepherd, one of the most photogenic buildings in New Zealand, for a perfect shot against its stone backdrop and scenic views of Mount John and Lake Tekapo. 

Book a guided observatory tour with Dark Sky Project to get a closer view of shooting stars and distant galaxies through powerful telescopes. 

Waitaki Region

The Waitaki region is home to two penguin species: rare yellow-eyed penguins and fairy-like blue penguins. Yellow-eyed penguins, with their rare yellow eyes and distinctive yellow band across their head, are one of the most impressive and rarest penguins in the world.

Not to be outdone by their lemon-hued neighbors, blue penguins are notable for being one of the smallest creatures in existence. 

The region offers more than just penguin sightings. For example, visitors can explore the awe-inspiring landscapes, such as the mysterious Moeraki Boulders that have formed over millions of years and the Clay Cliffs that boast over 1 million years of history. 

For a more luxurious experience, visit the Omarama Hot Tubs, which offer hot sauna and massage therapies along with incredible mountain views. Alternatively, gliding tours across Mackenzie Basin offer adventure-seekers a chance to fly like a bird. Several schools even offer glider certification. 

Oamaru’s steampunk attractions are not to be missed. These include the steampunk HQ, which is full of sculptures and old technology. You can also rent steampunk bicycles for a truly unique tour experience. 

Central Otago

If you’re looking for a place on the South Island with a rich cultural history, artisanal wines, and adventurous motorsports, you need to check out Central Otago!

This region is surrounded by stunning mountain ranges and is home to over 80 wineries, roadside stalls featuring local produce and summer fruits, as well as heritage towns. 

Explore Ophir, Bannockburn, Clyde, or Naseby for a great photo opportunity. And don’t forget to check out the Central Otago Arts Trail, where you can see photography, carvings, music, film, writing, sculpture, painting, jewelry, and more. 

If you’re feeling adventurous, visit the Highlands Motorsport Park and take a spin in a Ferrari with a professional race car driver. With a top speed of 100km/hr in just 3 seconds, it’s an experience you don’t want to miss.

Wanaka

Located in Otago, this stunningly beautiful town sits on Lake Wanaka, surrounded by mountains and hills.

Start your adventure with a snap at The Wanaka Tree – an iconic photo spot on the shores of Lake Wanaka. Once you’ve got your shot, take some time to read the history of the area on the boardwalk.

For an even more breathtaking view of Wanaka and Lake Wakatipu, hike up 545 meters to the top of Roy’s Peak. Although challenging, it’s worth the effort. Go early in the morning or late afternoon for the best views.

Wanaka provides an endless list of outdoor activities, from kayaking and paddleboarding to heli-biking and jet boating. I suggest a visit to Kawarau Bridge, the world’s first commercial bungy site. Try the Siberia Experience for an unforgettable adventure.

Wanaka offers foodies plenty of fantastic restaurants featuring delicious cuisine, lavender fields perfect for high teas, and local wineries known for exceptional Pinot noir. And, for the whisky aficionado, you can not skip Cardrona Distillery – the home of NZ’s only single malt whisky. 

Queenstown

Queenstown is known for its stunning views of the Southern Alps, exciting nightlife, and endless outdoor adventure activities. Backpackers flock to Queenstown to party on the beach (since it’s legal to have liquor out after 5 pm) and join pub crawls. If you’re staying in hostels, remember to book ahead, as Queenstown fills up fast!

Want to get your adrenaline pumping? Try the world’s most famous swing, The Nevis Wing, zipline off a bridge or take a bungee off the ledge of a mountain. Prefer calmer activities? Take the Skyline Gondola up Bob’s Peak for panoramic views of the Southern Alps, luge or paraglide down, and indulge in delicious food.

Fergburger is not to be missed. I recommend going at off-peak hours, such as mid-afternoon or late at night, to avoid lengthy lineups.

For dessert, indulge in the ultimate cookie experience with hot cookies and cookie-inspired creations at Cookie Time’s Cookie Bar. It’s a bar. That serves cookies. Go.

Dunedin

Dunedin, situated in one of the most picturesque regions of New Zealand, is a captivating blend of Scottish heritage and natural beauty. For majestic panoramic views of Otago Harbor, Signal Hill is the ideal place to go, offering vistas of surrounding suburbs and famous attractions such as Aramoana and Long Beach. The renowned Baldwin Street, with its steep incline, is a unique wonder that has to be seen. The city also boasts pristine beaches, exotic wildlife, and fascinating history. For an insightful look into Maori and European history, visit the Toitu Otago Settlers Museum. Nature enthusiasts will love visiting the Orokonui Eco Sanctuary to observe indigenous species like lizards, skinks and the vibrant birdlife. The major highlight for me was the world-famous Taieri Gorge Railway ride that passes over the Wingatui Viaduct, the world’s largest wrought-iron structure. 

The beautifully constructed Larnach Castle is also a must-visit place for architecture lovers and history buffs alike. While exploring the area, don’t forget to drop by the Royal Albatross Centre to observe albatross – birds with the largest wingspan ever recorded. You have to see them to fully appreciate their magnificence. 

15 Places To Visit On South Island of New Zealand — FAQ

When Is The Best Time To Visit South Island

During summer (December to February), you can expect mostly sunny weather with temperatures that can go above 25C but may feel hotter due to the sun. Winter (June to August) temperatures can dip to 0C with several below-zero days. Mostly hovering around 5C, spring and autumn offer more reasonable temperatures with some rain. 

How many days do you need to see South Island, New Zealand?

Allow a minimum of 14 days to truly embrace all that New Zealand has to offer. With one week set aside for each island, there is enough time to enjoy the best of the country.

What is South Island New Zealand Known for?

New Zealand’s South Island is a destination renowned for its picturesque scenery, complete with serene lakes, glaciers and lush green mountains. The region is home to the Southern Alps and is abundant in national parks and reserves. 

Why do people go to South Island, New Zealand?

The South Island of New Zealand – larger and more beautiful than the North – is famous for its striking inland mountains and fjords, as well as its picturesque coastline. 

Conclusion: 15 Places To Visit On the South Island of New Zealand

From the majestic Southern Alps to the golden beaches of Abel Tasman, New Zealand’s South Island is truly a place like no other. With so many incredible places to explore, it’s no wonder why this island is one of the most popular destinations in the world. I can honestly say that visiting the South Island of New Zealand was a truly memorable experience and one I’d recommend to anyone looking for the trip of a lifetime.

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[Additional Image Credit: Sue, Eli Duke,

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