New Zealand South Island Travel Insider Guide

Discover the Best Things To Do in
South Island, New Zealand

Are you ready to embark on an unforgettable journey through the stunning landscapes and hidden gems of the South Island?

Our insider guide is your ultimate resource for unlocking the secrets of this epic island we call home.

We’ve travelled to 50+ countries and extensively explored New Zealand for over 20 years; we can truly say there is no place quite like the South Island of New Zealand.

As true insiders, we’re passionate about sharing our firsthand knowledge and insider tips to help you discover the best things to do, see, and experience.

Whether you’re an international or domestic traveller or a local South Islander, let us inspire you to discover the South Island.

Your New Zealand South Island Travel Insider Guide features travel tips, destination guides, hidden gems, & the best things to do in South Island, New Zealand.

Why South Island, New Zealand?

Because it has it all: majestic mountains, scenic hiking trails, epic road trips, diverse national parks, charming towns, vibrant cities, stunning beaches, serene lakes, delicious food & fine wine! Plus, you can experience the rich culture and Maori history, the friendly locals, the exhilarating adventures & the captivating wildlife. There’s no place like the South Island!

Entry to historic Victorian building of Steampunk HQ

Charming Towns

The Blue waters of the Marlborough Sounds

Stunning Scenery

Wainui Falls waterfall and pool

Pristine Nature

Photo of Oli-Editor.

Friendly Locals

Places To Visit

Your ultimate New Zealand South Island guide includes all the South Island regions, cities, national parks, & do-not-miss places in the South Island.

Things To Do

Find out all the best things to see and do in the South Island including South Island adventures, tours, activities, attractions, and experiences.

Plan Your Trip

Whether this is your first trip to New Zealand or you’re a local, find all the travel info, resources & insider travel tips to make your trip planning easy.

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NEW ZEALAND SOUTH ISLAND blog

Can’t wait to discover the South Island? Here’s the latest from the blog!

Golden sands and clear water of Kaiteriteri Beach.
Things to do | Christchurch & Canterbury | Nelson Tasman

The 9 Best South Island Beaches for Summer Fun

New Zealand South Island beaches are some of the most breathtaking beaches in the world. Whether you want to swim, surf, or simply admire the gorgeous scenery, these beaches offer the perfect summer escape. From golden sands to dramatic coastlines, here are nine of the best beaches in New Zealand, South Island. Kaiteriteri Beach Highlights:…

Man with wide brimmed hat taking photo of water and mountains in Akaroa, NZ
Things to do | Christchurch & Canterbury

10 Best South Island Weekend Getaways from Christchurch

The South Island of New Zealand is perfect for a weekend getaway, offering jaw-dropping landscapes, rich wildlife, and activities to suit every traveller. While a 2-3 week trip is ideal to explore many of the best things to do and see, not everyone has that luxury. So, we have compiled a selection of 2-4 day…

Woman standing on a rock overlooking the rugged ocean at Cape Foulwind Walkway
Things to do | West Coast

Cape Foulwind Walkway: Seal Spotting, Lighthouse & Epic Ocean Views

Cape Foulwind Walkway is a must-see attraction in the West Coast region of the South Island. This short walk offers views of a historic lighthouse, expansive ocean panoramas, farmland, mountains, a colony of fur seals, striking coastal formations and cliff views. Here is the information you need to visit this extraordinary coastal walkway. Make sure…

Gravel track through ancient rainforest in Fox Glacier, New Zealand.
Things to do | West Coast

The Best West Coast Walks You Don’t Want To Miss – New Zealand South Island

Prepare to be filled with awe as you explore the outstanding natural wonders of the West Coast. You’ll find the most incredible hikes in New Zealand in the South Island’s West Coast region, where you can experience these breathtaking sights up close on scenic walks. You can find yourself walking along ocean clifftop trails one…

Views of cliffs and ocean from the Truman Track walk
West Coast | Things to do

The Best Punakaiki Walks – Short NZ South Island Walks

Punakaiki is an ideal destination for those who want to marvel at natural wonders. At the western edge of the Paparoa National Park, the area offers some of the finest hikes in New Zealand’s South Island. This list of the best Punakaiki walks includes short and easy hikes, making them doable for most visitors. Punakaiki…

View of riverbed and Franz Josef Glacier surrounded by snow covered moutains.
West Coast | Things to do

Your Complete Guide to the Franz Josef Glacier Walk

The town of Franz Josef, famous for its glacier, offers many excellent and rewarding walks. One of the most popular tracks is the Franz Josef Glacier Walk. This short and easy walk is the highlight of a visit to the town and is the main reason people visit. Here is all the information you need…