Discover New Zealand's South Island
The stunningly beautiful South Island is dominated by the Southern Alps, running the length of the island and home to a dramatic landscape of snow-capped peaks, blue-white glaciers, rushing rivers, glistening lakes and amazing fiords.
One of the world’s finest wine areas, Marlborough, and the amazing Abel Tasman National Park both lie to the north of the “Garden City” of Christchurch, whilst further south in Dunedin there’s a strong Scottish influence. Queenstown is activity paradise and yet relaxing too, whilst the Fiordland National Park offers incredible scenery and true serenity.
Nelson
Over 170 years old, Nelson is New Zealand’s oldest city and has recently made a name for itself as a flourishing cultural centre amidst awe-inspiring landscapes. The city is home to a large number of artists who are celebrated during an array of popular events. With more than 2500 hours of sunshine a year, Nelson is also considered the country’s sunniest city and is a perfect setting in which to enjoy an array of adventure and leisure activities – biking, horse trekking, rock climbing, wine-tasting at local estates, or simply taking in the superb views of the Tasman Bay.
Tasman District is a large area at the western corner of the north end of New Zealand’s South Island. Covering a 9,786 square kilometre piece of land, this district offers a diverse landscape ranging from extensive mountainous areas to lush valleys and exquisite white sandy beaches. This naturally spectacular area is home to three national parks: Abel Tasman National Park, Nelson Lakes National Park, and Kahurangi National Park as well as the magnificent The Maruia Falls. With its extensive network of remarkable limestone caves just waiting to be explored and enough animal and bird life to thrill even the most avid wildlife enthusiast.
Marlborough
Set at the northeastern tip of South Island, New Zealand, Marlborough is New Zealand’s largest wine-growing region, boasting over 4000 hectares of vineyards. Those with a taste for the finer things in life will find plenty to savour in the many world-class wine cellars, cafes and restaurants.
With an average of 2400 hours of annual sunshine, the Marlborough climate is the perfect setting in which to explore the local wildlife and scenery, and highlight activities include swimming with the dolphins, trekking or mountain biking along breath-taking coastal paths, whale watching, kayaking and boat tours.
The gorgeous Marlborough Sounds, a vast area of sea-drowned valleys, offer the chance to see fur seals, little blue penguins, dolphins, and rare birds.
Christchurch
Canterbury is a region in the South Island of New Zealand known for its rugged coastline, diverse wildlife and beautiful turquoise lakes. The regions of Christchurch and Canterbury are set against the majestic backdrops of both alps and the ocean
Canterbury's largest city, Christchurch, is the gateway for tourism on the South Island. Travellers flock here for snow sports adventures, countryside walks, mountainous quests, bungy jumping, horse trekking and white water rafting to mention just a few activities.
Spend time in the region enjoying regional wines, superb cuisine and fine local produce. The Tekapo Springs hot pools overlooking Lake Tekapo and the Two Thumb mountain range are a must-see attraction.
Milford Sound
Milford Sound, New Zealand’s most well-known tourist destination, is a fjord created by a succession of glaciers carved through the rocks as they gouged a track to the sea leaving in their wake the impressive rock formations visible today.
Home to some diverse and particularly unusual wildlife including fur seals and crested penguins, as well as bottlenose and dusky dolphins, this geographical gem is a must-see for nature lovers. With the striking Mitre Peak towering overhead, sheer rocky cliffs rise vertically out of the calm dark waters while nearby, the waters of the exquisite Bowen Falls plunge down a 520-foot drop before crashing dramatically into the fjord below.
With its remarkable geographical setting and its unbelievable abundance of wildlife, it is easy to see why writer Rudyard Kipling once called Milford Sound the “eighth natural wonder of the world.”
Queenstown
Queenstown is situated on the shores of Lake Wakatipu and has stunning views of the surrounding alpine peaks.
Considered by many as one of the world’s adventure capitals, it offers visitors a wide selection of adrenaline-boosting activities to choose from, such as bungee jumping, white water rafting, zip-lining, skiing and skydiving.
Queenstown also has a lively bar and restaurant scene, and for those who prefer the quieter things in life, there are vineyards, golf courses, spas and wellness centres.
Dunedin
Situated on tree-covered hills overlooking the spectacular Otago Harbour and Peninsula, Dunedin (Celtic for Edinburgh) is New Zealand’s largest city geographically. But there’s no urban sprawl here; instead, you’ll find impressive historic architecture, parks, and natural beauty in abundance.
You’ll want to visit Larnach Castle (high tea is served at 3 pm every day); Speight’s Brewery for tours, tastings and hearty meals; St Paul’s Cathedral; and the Ice Stadium to watch a game or two of curling.
Beyond the city limits, you’ll find some gems, too, including the Orokonui Ecosanctuary, and the seaside settlements of Karitane and Port Chalmers.
Central Otago
Central Otago, on New Zealand's South Island, is known for its wine, cycling and powerful landscapes. Taste your way around the sunny Central Otago's Pinot Noir vineyards, cycle the Otago Central Rail Trail or explore picturesque heritage towns.
Weather
The below weather charts are based on Christchurch (Canterbury)
Temperature (°C)
Rainfall (mm)
Flights to New Zealand from the UK are indirect, with one-stop when flying into Christchurch. The average flying time to Christchurch from the UK is 25 hours (plus stopover)
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