Packrafting Queenstown – Guided Hike & Paddle Trips
Packrafting in Queenstown with guided hike and paddle trips. Trek to remote rivers, inflate your raft and explore pristine backcountry gorges.
Things to Do in the South Island of New Zealand – Activities, Tours & Attractions (2026 Guide)
Home / Things to Do in the South Island of New Zealand – Activities, Tours & Attractions (2026 Guide)
Things to Do in the South Island of New Zealand – Activities, Tours & Attractions (2026 Guide)
Discover the best things to do in the South Island of New Zealand, from dramatic alpine landscapes and world-famous fjords to wildlife encounters, scenic cruises and adventure-filled destinations. Whether you’re planning a short visit or a full South Island itinerary, explore top activities, attractions and unforgettable tours organised by region below.
Top South Island Destinations & Experiences by Region
Kia ora Welcome to New Zealand.
Experience the Best of New Zealand’s South Island
From the iconic fjords of Fiordland and the rugged West Coast to Queenstown’s adventure playground and Marlborough’s renowned wine regions, the South Island is packed with unforgettable experiences. Cruise Milford Sound’s dramatic landscapes, seek out wildlife encounters, explore alpine scenery, or enjoy world-class food and wine along the way.
Whether you’re drawn to outdoor adventure, natural beauty, or relaxed scenic travel, discover some of the best South Island tours, attractions and activities below.
Guided Heli Hike Adventure Tasman Glacier Mount Cook
Explore Mount Cook’s Tasman Glacier with the best heli-hiking operators. Enjoy scenic flights, guided glacier walks, and breathtaking ice formations.
Glenorchy Air Scenic Flights Queenstown to Milford
Scenic Flights Queenstown to Milford Sound & Mount Cook. Cruise Milford Sound to see waterfalls, dolphins, seals, and New Zealand’s stunning wildlife.
Guided Day Walks Milford Track, Kepler & Routeburn
Experience raw beauty first hand. Step out into the forest & mountains with a knowledgeable guide to share in this awe-inspiring world.
Discovery Jet – 45 Minute Jet Boat Ride in Rakaia Gorge
Blast through braided river channels at high speed with Discovery Jet. Hold on tight for 360° spins, epic scenery, and pure adrenaline in Rakaia Gorge!
Christchurch City Tour by Tram – Hop On & Hop Off
Explore Christchurch by heritage tram with a flexible hop-on hop-off pass. Visit 17 stops, hear live commentary, and discover the city at your own pace.
Skippers Canyon Jet Boat Tours – Queenstown
Queenstown jet boat through Skippers Canyon: ~30-minute Shotover River ride, gold-mining history, narrow canyons, 360° spins and Lord of the Rings locations.
Top 15 Free Things to do in Te Anau & Manapouri
Discover the best free things to do in Te Anau. Enjoy scenic walks, wildlife encounters, and outdoor activities in Fiordland’s stunning natural landscapes.
Parasailing Lake Wanaka Stunning Mountain Views
Parasailing on Lake Wanaka is a truly unique experience combining the thrill of free flight and the stunning views of Lake wanaka
Taieri Gorge Railway – Scenic Train Journey from Dunedin
Experience the Taieri Gorge Railway from Dunedin on a heritage train journey through Otago, crossing viaducts and tunnels with dramatic scenery along the route.
Mount Cook Ski Plane Flights With Snow & Glacier landing
Experience Mount Cook’s stunning glaciers with ski plane tours. Enjoy scenic flights, glacier landings, and breathtaking views of New Zealand’s highest peak.
Hanmer Springs Jet Boat Rides Amuri Jet
An exciting, thrilling and adrenaline pumping jet boat ride on the Waiau River, following the contours of the steep canyon walls & 360 degree spins
Frequently asked Questions for Travellers visiting The South Island of New Zealand
What are the main attractions and activities available on the South Island of New Zealand?
The South Island offers a wide range of experiences, including cruising Milford Sound, enjoying adventure activities in Queenstown, tasting wines in Marlborough, exploring glacier landscapes on the West Coast, and visiting alpine regions such as Mount Cook and Fiordland.
How can I find tours and experiences across different regions of the South Island?
Tours and experiences are best explored through destination-based guides that group activities by region, allowing travellers to compare options such as scenic cruises, wine tours, wildlife encounters and adventure activities.
What is the best way to plan an itinerary for exploring the South Island?
Start by selecting key regions such as Fiordland, Queenstown, Marlborough and Christchurch, then plan activities based on travel time, interests and seasonal conditions to create a well-balanced itinerary.
Are there recommended tours for adventure seekers on the South Island?
Yes, the South Island is known for adventure experiences including jet boating and bungee jumping in Queenstown, canyoning in Abel Tasman, quad biking near Franz Josef, and skydiving in Wanaka.
What guided experiences are available for nature and wildlife enthusiasts?
Nature and wildlife enthusiasts can enjoy guided experiences such as wildlife tours, birdwatching in the Marlborough Sounds, whale watching in Kaikoura, alpine walks, and scenic nature experiences led by knowledgeable local guides.
What is the best time of year to visit the South Island?
The South Island is a year-round destination. Summer (December–February) is ideal for hiking, boating and wine tours, while winter (June–August) offers snow sports and dramatic alpine scenery. Spring and autumn provide fewer crowds and colourful landscapes.
How much time should I spend exploring the South Island?
A 10–14 day itinerary allows time to experience the South Island’s major highlights. Shorter trips can still include iconic destinations such as Queenstown, Milford Sound and Franz Josef Glacier with efficient planning.
What transport options are available for getting around the South Island?
The best way to explore the South Island is by rental car or campervan, offering maximum flexibility. Intercity buses and scenic train routes also connect major destinations including Christchurch, Greymouth and Queenstown.