Tap to Read ➤

Amazing Things to do in South Island, New Zealand

Chaitrali Datar
The South Island also known as Te Waipounamu, is one of the most picturesque places in New Zealand.

Your browser doesn't support HTML5 video.
You can indulge in a variety of activities here right from kayaking, bungee jumping, cycling and many other.
Top Things to do in South Island, NZ.
Visit the Fiordland National Park
  • It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, well-known for its glacial sightseeing and large sea-inlets.
  • The surroundings are extremely breathtaking.
Lady Bowen Falls
As you explore this park, you will come across the most magnificent waterfalls, Lady Bowen Falls.
The Milford Sound Overnight Cruise is very well-known and is a must-experience!
Visit Lake Matheson (Mt Cook)
The stunning mirror reflections of Mt. Cook in Lake Matheson are sure to keep you captivated.
  • The best time to visit this Lake is at the crack of dawn.
  • It involves a small hike, where you gradually see the reflections of the mountains as you proceed further the lake.
Marlborough Sounds Island
Found at the start of the Southern End, this island is a collection of all things beautiful!
It includes rich marine reserves, islands, and various historic sites. It is perfect for a half-day exploration.
Are you ready for some adventure?
Sky Diving
Experience a free-fall from thousands of feet in the air, with a trained sky diving instructor!
  • The experience is surely surreal and simply out of this world!
  • You can do this activity in Queenstown or Wanaka.
Bungee Jumping
Do you know it was New Zealand who invented Bungee Jumping? It was commercialized in the year 1980.
Top places to go Bungee Jumping in NZ
  • Kawarau Bridge Bungy.
  • Nevis Bungy
  • The Ledge Bungy.
Hot Air Balloon Ride
  • Are you ready to explore something relaxing yet adventurous?
  • Take the Hot Air Balloon ride over Queenstown!
Witness the Southern Alps in its full-glory, as you have hot drinks and yummy bites in the balloon!!
Helicopter Tour
  • If you want to have a chilling and a thrilling experience, do take the Helicopter Tour Ride!
  • South Island has plenty of glacial expanses to experience atop a helicopter.
The rides are typically of 3 hours. Some of them have an option of getting down at spot for a short hike.

Your browser doesn't support HTML5 video.
Other Top activities to do:
  • Cycling
  • Kayaking
  • Swinging (similar to Bungee Jumping)
  • Fishing
  • Hiking
Get Close with Wildlife!
South Island is home to a rich and beautiful wildlife. The most note-worthy are exploring the bird population.
The Stewart Island is home to the the largest bird population in NZ, such as the kiwi, penguins, albatrosses, wekas, kakas.
Some More Activities:
  • Whale and Dolphin watching from an airplane.
  • Dolphin watching from a cruise.
  • Albatross watching from a boat!
Visit the Wineries in Central Otago
  • Breathtaking landscapes, quaint hills and a multitude of wineries.
  • You just cannot miss this one!
Taste the famous Pinot Noir wine, roam around the fields and experience the best of this region.
Hop on the Tranze Alpine train
An amazing experience as you explore the topography of the SOUTH ISLAND on this train!
Spa Treatments
All the running around requires relaxation for your body. And the South Island has some mesmerizing natural spas!
You can visit South Island almost any time of the year as every season has its different charm !
When are you visiting the land of the Kiwis?