Best Places to Visit in South Island | Travel Guide (2024) | Things to Do, See & Eat
South Island Travel Guide
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Welcome to the stunning South Island of New Zealand, a destination that promises breathtaking landscapes, thrilling adventures, and a rich cultural experience. Known for its majestic mountains, pristine lakes, and diverse wildlife, the South Island offers a plethora of outdoor activities for nature enthusiasts. From exploring the iconic Milford Sound, a fjord renowned for its dramatic cliffs and cascading waterfalls, to hiking the famous Routeburn Track, a scenic trail that winds through the Southern Alps, there is no shortage of natural wonders to discover. Additionally, the South Island is home to vibrant cities such as Christchurch and Queenstown, where you can immerse yourself in the local culture, indulge in delicious cuisine, and experience adrenaline-pumping activities like bungee jumping and jet boating. Whether you're seeking tranquility in nature or seeking adventure in the city, the South Island of New Zealand is a destination that will leave you awe-inspired and craving for more.
South Island Travel Videos
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Best Places To Visit in South Island
1. Queenstown: Nestled on the shores of Lake Wakatipu, Queenstown is renowned as the adventure capital of New Zealand. With its stunning alpine scenery, this vibrant town offers a plethora of thrilling activities such as bungee jumping, skydiving, and jet boating. Additionally, Queenstown is a gateway to the breathtaking Fiordland National Park, making it an ideal base for exploring the region's natural wonders.
2. Christchurch: Known as the "Garden City," Christchurch is a charming urban center with a unique blend of history and modernity. After the devastating earthquakes in 2010 and 2011, the city has undergone a remarkable transformation, showcasing innovative architecture and vibrant street art. Visitors can explore the tranquil Botanic Gardens, visit the bustling Riverside Market, or take a punt along the Avon River, immersing themselves in the city's rejuvenated spirit.
3. Dunedin: Situated on the southeastern coast, Dunedin is a city rich in Scottish heritage and Victorian architecture. Home to the prestigious University of Otago, Dunedin exudes a youthful energy and offers a range of cultural attractions. Visitors can explore the iconic Dunedin Railway Station, take a tour of the historic Larnach Castle, or witness the captivating wildlife at the Otago Peninsula, where colonies of penguins and seals can be observed.
4. Nelson: Located at the top of the South Island, Nelson is renowned for its sunny climate, stunning beaches, and thriving arts scene. The city is surrounded by picturesque vineyards and orchards, making it a haven for food and wine enthusiasts. Visitors can explore the vibrant Saturday market, visit the World of WearableArt and Classic Cars Museum, or embark on a scenic hike in the nearby Abel Tasman National Park.
5. Kaikoura: Situated on the east coast, Kaikoura is a coastal town famous for its abundant marine life. Visitors can partake in whale watching tours, where they have the opportunity to spot majestic sperm whales, dolphins, and seals. Additionally, Kaikoura is renowned for its delectable seafood, particularly crayfish, which can be savored at the local restaurants. The town's stunning coastal scenery and relaxed atmosphere make it a must-visit destination.
6. Wanaka: Nestled on the shores of Lake Wanaka, this picturesque town offers a tranquil escape from the bustling tourist hubs. Wanaka is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with activities such as hiking, mountain biking, and skiing available year-round. The town also boasts a vibrant arts and culture scene, with numerous galleries and exhibitions showcasing local talent. Visitors can take a scenic flight over the Southern Alps or simply relax by the crystal-clear waters of the lake.
7. Te Anau: Situated on the edge of Fiordland National Park, Te Anau is the gateway to the world-famous Milford Sound. This charming town offers a range of outdoor activities, including hiking the Kepler Track, exploring the glowworm caves, or cruising along the serene Lake Te Anau. With its proximity to the stunning fiords and majestic mountains, Te Anau is a paradise for nature lovers.
8. Arrowtown: Located just a short drive from Queenstown, Arrowtown is a quaint historic village that takes visitors back in time to the gold rush era. The town's well-preserved heritage buildings and tree-lined streets create a charming atmosphere. Visitors can explore the Chinese Settlement, visit the Lakes District Museum, or simply wander through the picturesque streets, soaking in the rich history and natural beauty of the area.
9. Hanmer Springs: Nestled in the foothills of the Southern Alps, Hanmer Springs is a popular destination for relaxation and rejuvenation. The town is famous for its natural hot springs, where visitors can unwind in the soothing mineral waters. In addition to the thermal pools, Hanmer Springs offers a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, mountain biking, and horse trekking, making it an ideal destination for both adventure seekers and those seeking tranquility.
10. Bluff: Situated at the southernmost point of the South Island, Bluff is a small coastal town known for its iconic Bluff oysters and stunning views. Visitors can indulge in the local delicacy at one of the town's seafood restaurants or take a scenic walk to the Bluff Hill Lookout, which offers panoramic vistas of the surrounding coastline. Bluff is also the gateway to Stewart Island, a haven for nature lovers and birdwatchers.
Hotels Map Of South Island
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Tours And Activities In South Island
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Food & Drinks To Try In South Island
1. Pavlova: A popular dessert in New Zealand, pavlova is a meringue-based cake topped with whipped cream and fresh fruits. It is a must-try sweet treat on the South Island.
2. Green-lipped mussels: The South Island is known for its delicious seafood, and green-lipped mussels are a specialty. These large, flavorful mussels are often served steamed or in a creamy white wine sauce.
3. Lamb: New Zealand is famous for its high-quality lamb, and the South Island is no exception. Whether it's a lamb roast, lamb chops, or lamb burgers, you can't go wrong with trying this tender and flavorful meat.
4. Whitebait fritters: Whitebait fritters are a unique delicacy in New Zealand. These small, translucent fish are mixed with eggs and lightly fried to create a crispy and flavorful fritter. They are often served with lemon wedges and a side of salad.
5. Hokey Pokey ice cream: This iconic New Zealand ice cream flavor is a must-try on the South Island. It consists of vanilla ice cream with small, crunchy pieces of honeycomb toffee mixed in. The combination of creamy and crunchy textures makes it a delightful treat.
6. Sauvignon Blanc: The South Island is renowned for its vineyards and wine production, particularly Sauvignon Blanc. This crisp and refreshing white wine is known for its vibrant flavors of tropical fruits and citrus. Wine enthusiasts should definitely sample some of the local Sauvignon Blanc during their visit.
7. Venison: The South Island is home to vast deer farms, making venison a popular meat choice. Whether it's a venison steak, burger, or stew, this lean and tender meat offers a unique and gamey flavor that is worth trying.
8. Feijoa: Feijoa is a fruit native to South America but widely grown in New Zealand. It has a unique flavor that is a combination of pineapple, guava, and mint. Feijoa can be eaten raw or used in various desserts, jams, and beverages.
9. Craft beer: The South Island has a thriving craft beer scene, with numerous breweries offering a wide range of unique and flavorful beers. From hoppy IPAs to rich stouts, beer enthusiasts will find plenty of options to satisfy their taste buds.
10. Manuka honey: Manuka honey is a special type of honey produced in New Zealand, known for its unique antibacterial properties. The South Island is home to vast areas of Manuka trees, making it an ideal place to sample and purchase this high-quality honey.
Overall, the South Island of New Zealand offers a diverse range of food and drink options that showcase the region's natural bounty and culinary expertise. From seafood and lamb to unique desserts and beverages, there is something to please every palate.
Best Time To Visit South Island
The best time to visit the South Island of New Zealand is during the summer months of December to February. This is when the weather is warmest and most pleasant, with average temperatures ranging from 20 to 30 degrees Celsius. It is also the peak tourist season, so you can expect crowds and higher prices for accommodations and activities. However, the stunning landscapes of the South Island are well worth it, with pristine beaches, majestic mountains, and breathtaking fjords to explore. If you prefer milder weather and fewer tourists, the shoulder seasons of spring (September to November) and autumn (March to May) are also great times to visit. During these times, you can still enjoy pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery, while avoiding the peak tourist crowds. However, it's important to note that the weather can be more unpredictable during these seasons, so it's advisable to pack appropriate clothing and be prepared for changing conditions. Overall, the South Island of New Zealand offers stunning natural beauty year-round, but the summer months are generally considered the best time to visit for optimal weather and outdoor activities.
Flight Calendar For South Island
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Transportation To South Island
There are several transportation options to get to the South Island of New Zealand:
1. By Air: The most convenient way to reach the South Island is by flying into one of the major airports such as Christchurch International Airport, Queenstown Airport, or Dunedin Airport. There are regular domestic flights from major cities in New Zealand as well as international flights from Australia and other countries.
2. By Ferry: If you are coming from the North Island, you can take a ferry from Wellington to Picton. The Interislander and Bluebridge ferry services operate multiple daily sailings and offer stunning views of the Marlborough Sounds during the journey. Once you reach Picton, you can continue your journey by road or take a connecting flight.
3. By Road: If you prefer a scenic road trip, you can drive to the South Island from various locations in New Zealand. The most common route is to take State Highway 1 from Wellington to Picton and then cross over to the South Island via the Interislander ferry. Alternatively, you can drive from Christchurch to Picton via State Highway 1 or take the inland route via State Highway 7.
4. By Bus: There are several bus companies that operate services between the North and South Islands, including InterCity, Naked Bus, and Atomic Shuttles. These buses usually travel via the ferry and offer an affordable option for transportation.
5. By Train: The TranzAlpine train service operates between Christchurch and Greymouth, offering a scenic journey through the Southern Alps. While this option doesn't directly take you to the South Island, it can be a great way to experience the stunning landscapes of the region.
Once you are on the South Island, there are various transportation options available including rental cars, buses, and domestic flights to explore different regions and attractions.