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!

Chilli garlic, prawns, chips and a glass of Monteith's beer
West Coast | Things to do

The Best Greymouth Restaurants and Cafes

Are you looking for recommendations for the best places to eat in Greymouth? We’re here to help! We frequently visit the largest town on the West Coast and have personally dined at many restaurants and cafes. Therefore, we have written this post about our dining experiences to help you decide where to eat. Read on…

View of the motor of a jetboat on a glacial lake with mountains and Tasman Glacier's blue terminal face in the background.
Christchurch & Canterbury | Things to do

Glacier Explorers Mt Cook: Tasman Glacier Boat Trip

During a recent visit to Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, we went on the Glacier Explorers Tasman Glacier boat trip. The Lake Tasman tour is the only one of its kind in New Zealand. It gave us a close-up view of a glacier and the experience of seeing the only icebergs in New Zealand. Here are…

View of Mt Cook and Hooker Glacier and Lake
Christchurch & Canterbury | Things to do

Top 10 Things to Do in Mount Cook in One Day

Mount Cook National Park is one of New Zealand’s most iconic destinations and is a must-visit on any traveller’s list. Home to Aoraki/Mount Cook, the country’s highest peak, and surrounded by glaciers, lakes, and alpine terrain, it is a place that offers a truly unique and unforgettable adventure. If you have only one day to…

A man on a rock looking at Mount Cook towering in front of him.
Things to do | Christchurch & Canterbury

Hooker Valley Track Hike – All You Need to Know About the Best Mount Cook Walk

New Zealand’s South Island isn’t short of epic walks, but the Hooker Valley Track hike is a showstopper. This relatively easy walk in the Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park feels like stepping into a fantasy movie set. In fact, parts of The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit were filmed in the area. After years…

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…