South Island Tours and Vacation Packages

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New Zealand is made up of two major islands. Simply called North and South Islands, they contrast not only the country’s terrain and physical features but also its character and attractions. The South Island has spectacular scenery consisting of lush valleys, snow-covered mountains, and rugged coasts. Its breathtaking natural landscapes are a highlight of any New Zealand vacation.

Also, visit the North Island

South Island Vacation Highlights

Marlborough Sounds

The Marlborough Sounds, made up of sheltered waterways, meanders for more than 600 miles (966 km) around secluded coves and pristine beaches, with many spots accessible only by boat. The area offers those on New Zealand tour opportunities for cruising, sailing, diving and fishing. The Queen Charlotte Walkway, one of New Zealand's walking tracks, contains both bush and coastal scenery. Marlborough's long, hot summers and frosty, clear winters make it ideal for grape growing and its 30 wineries produce some of the world's finest white and sparkling wines. These can be sampled on wine tours around Blenheim, a busy provincial town of pleasant parks and gardens, which enjoys more sunshine than anywhere else in the country.

Learn more about Malborough Sounds Tours here

Kaikoura 

Kaikoura, two hours south of Blenheim was once famous for its rock lobsters but is today better known as one of the few places in the world where it is possible to view, at close range, huge sperm whales, along with dolphins, seals and great marine birds. A whale-watching tour from Kaikoura is one of New Zealand’s most exciting and reliable wildlife encounters.

Nelson 

With a mild climate, Nelson is a large fruit-growing region in New Zealand and supplies the nation's tobacco and hops. Small boutique wineries, often with cafes, flourish in the Moutere's protected, sun-drenched valleys where you will also come across local breweries and roadside produce stands. Quality art studios and craft shops abound in the city and surrounding district, making it a worthwhile addition to many New Zealand tours.

The National Parks of the Northern South Island

Kahurangi National Park, a wilderness of lush rainforest and awesome limestone formations, is the site of the Heaphy and Wangapeka tracks. Nelson Lakes National Park’s high peaks and beech forests, along with the jewel-like lakes of Rotoiti and Rotoroa can be seen from fabulous walks and hikes.

Abel Tasman National Park is primarily a coastal park. Its subtropical native forests stretch down to golden-sand beaches, estuaries and secluded bays. Marahau Beach, at the southern end of the park, near Motueka, offers kayaking, horseback riding, boat rentals and water taxis to various points in the park. The drive to Golden Bay, around the inland side of the Abel Tasman National Park, climbs over Takaka Hill, and the views down into Takaka Valley and out over Kahurangi National Park are spectacular. 

At Golden Bay, you can enjoy the uncrowded golden beaches, or visit the mesmerizing, crystal-clear Waikoropupu Springs. Along Farewell Spit is a 15-mile sand spit extending into the bay, where you can take a 4WD safari to see a migratory bird sanctuary of international significance.

West Coast

The West Coast is a narrow strip of land hemmed in between the South Island's formidable Southern Alps and the Tasman Sea. With most of its natural environment still intact and preserved in six national parks and a World Heritage Site, the Coast is an unspoiled, scenic gem. This wild, sparsely populated region of mountains, glaciers, tranquil lakes, lively rivers, lush rainforests and a magnificent 360-mile (600 km) coastline overwhelms New Zealand vacation-goers with its grandeur and beauty.

The northern West Coast is often called Buller after its main river. The major town is Westport, a port with a coal-mining history. Nearby, Cape Foulwind is the site of the country's most accessible fur seal colony. To the north is Karamea, with its unusual limestone topography, an area of caves, sinkholes, and disappearing rivers. Here the towering Oparara Arch is the result of thousands of years of erosion by the Oparara River.

Between Westport and Greymouth, the coastline features the unique Punakaiki Pancake Rocks and blowholes. In south Westland, Whataroa, near Okarito, is the site of the only breeding station in New Zealand for the majestic white heron, a bird revered by the Maori. South Westland also has some of the most dramatic views in New Zealand the soaring Southern Alps, forest-fringed lakes, lush rain forests and the spectacular Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers.

Canterbury 

Canterbury, a flat, broad plain, borders the Southern Alps. Its capital, Christchurch, is the South Island's largest city with a population of over 330,000. Christchurch is New Zealand's "Garden City” full of many beautiful parks and reserves. Punting along the Avon River, through the inner city is a popular way to experience the distinctively English character of the city on New Zealand tours.

North of Christchurch, Hanmer Springs is a serene alpine thermal resort set in a natural wonderland, where you can relax in the hot mineral waters or walk the trails through plantation forests planted early in the century. Other activities include bungee jumping, mountain biking, jet boating, rafting, horseback riding, golf, and skiing.

Just over the hills from Christchurch, on one of the many harbors that indent the Banks Peninsula, is the port of Lyttelton, where Canterbury's first settlers landed. Also on the Banks Peninsula, Akaroa, once a French settlement, still has French street signs and a charming Gaelic ambiance, along with quaint cottages, an excellent folk museum, French restaurants and a marvellous cheese factory.

Mount Hutt, 56 miles/90 km southwest of Christchurch, is one of the most popular ski fields in New Zealand. International competitions are staged here each year. The ski season at Mount Hutt is open from May to October. At the base of Mount Hutt lies the small country town of Methven, which in winter becomes a lively resort for one of New Zealand's top ski fields.

The alpine village of Arthur's Pass is a two-hour drive from Christchurch. Nestled in the foothills of the Southern Alps, it is surrounded by the spectacular Arthur's Pass National Park, popular for climbing, hiking, short walks, hunting and fishing. A great way to see this area is by taking the TranzAlpine.

Mount Cook

The road from Christchurch to Mount Cook passes through a land of lakes, vast open spaces and golden, tussock-covered hills that roll toward the Southern Alps. On the way, you pass by the milky-blue, glacial lakes of Pukaki and Tekapo. Located on the shores of Lake Tekapo, the lonely little stone Church of the Good Shepherd has a spectacular view of Mount Cook, framed by the altar window. Mount Cook (12,349 ft), towers above the massive, snow-clad peaks that make up Mount Cook National Park. On one side of Mount Cook are the mighty Tasman Glacier, a 19-mile giant and one of the longest outside of the Himalayas. Spectacular ski plane flights open up this majestic world to everyone. All sorts of ski options are available, including heli-skiing and ski touring. Glorious mountain walks and climbing expeditions are geared to suit every degree of fitness, and guides are available. A range of accommodations is available including a hotel, chalets, a youth hostel and a campground.

Queenstown

Queenstown lies beside Lake Wakatipu at the foot of The Remarkables mountain range. It is the South Island's most popular resort and the base for excursions into the surrounding mountains and nearby fiords, including Milford Sound. In winter, Queenstown is New Zealand's main skiing destination, and in summer even larger numbers of visitors come to take part in outdoor activities ranging from trout fishing to paragliding, and white-water rafting to bungee jumping on a New Zealand vacation. The town is compact enough to get around on foot, with courtesy vehicles, buses or taxis available to take you to outlying attractions. Queenstown has more than 100 restaurants, plenty of entertainment, accommodations to suit all tastes, and great shopping.

Discover more information about Queenstown Tours here

Wanaka

Wanaka, surrounded by majestic mountains lies on the shores of the glacial-formed Lake Wanaka. The township is in some respects a quieter, more relaxed version of Queenstown, with a range of accommodations, from a top-class resort to motor lodges and campgrounds. The town also has a superb selection of restaurants and cafes. Rising beyond the lake, magnificent Mount Aspiring, the focal point of Mount Aspiring National Park is a favourite with hikers. Wanaka township sits at the base of the Treble Cone ski area, a favourite with snowboarders. Cardrona ski area is situated on the Crown Range between Wanaka and Queenstown and is an ideal ski field for families.

Fiordland

Covering nearly three million acres, wet, wild, rugged and remote, Fiordland is one of the largest national parks in the world. A World Heritage Site, this is nature on a grand scale. Protected by its isolation, some of New Zealand's rarest birds are found here, as well as some of the country's best-known hiking tracks on New Zealand tours.

Te Anau, an attractive resort on the shores of Lake Te Anau, is the starting point for the Fiordland National Park and its many outdoor activities. Sometimes referred to as the "walking capital of the world" Te Anau acquired this reputation from the Milford, Kepler, Routeburn, Greenstone, Hollyford and Dusky Tracks. Its accommodations range from four-star hotels and motels to backpacker hostels, campgrounds and farm stay. It also has fine restaurants serving the specialties of the region: lobster, venison and fresh fish.

Milford Sound is the most accessible and best known of the glacier-cut fiords. Lined with mountain peaks that rise sharply to heights of 7,000 feet, the most famous of which is Mitre Peak. Lush rainforest and majestic waterfalls abound. Wildlife includes the Fiordland Crested Penguin, fur seals and dolphins.

Otago

The South Island's second-largest city and the commercial center of Otago are Dunedin, a gracious, distinctive city of grand 19th-century buildings and beautiful gardens. Dunedin is a city of culture and learning, distinguished by libraries, museums, parks, churches, and New Zealand's first university. Bearing the Gaelic form of the name Edinburgh, Dunedin was settled by Scots and made prosperous by the Otago gold rushes of the 1860s. Dunedin's Victorian character is preserved in its many fine stone buildings.

The Otago Peninsula, only 15 minutes from downtown, has an abundance of wildlife, from seabirds, fur seals and the rare and endangered yellow-eyed penguin (hoiho). At the end of the peninsula on Taiaroa Head, the mighty albatross glides effortlessly on the updrafts. Nowhere else in the world does this, the largest of the world's seabirds, breed within such easy viewing access.

In Northern Otago, the town of Oamaru was also built from the wealth that came out of the Otago goldfields. In addition to its grand, stone Victorian buildings and fine gardens, it is noted for the two species of penguins that inhabit its shores. Farther up the coast a unique geological phenomenon, Moeraki Boulders look as if giants have scattered enormous toy balls on the beach.

Central Otago was used during the gold rush days of the 1860s by thousands of miners. Along the Goldfields' Heritage Highway, the road runs through the quaint villages of Clyde, Lawrence, St. Bathans and Naseby. Alexandra is the main town on the mighty Clutha River. Clyde and Cromwell are also ideal to explore on a New Zealand vacation.

Southland

Southland is a region of lush green farmlands, rainforests, spectacular coastal scenery, small towns and the longest daylight hours in the country. Its rivers and streams and lakes are filled with sizable trout, and fishing here is a way of life. The largest urban center, Invercargill is New Zealand's southernmost city. East of Invercargill on the Southern Scenic Highway from Dunedin, the Catlins Forest Park offers some great walks and magnificent coastal scenery.

Unspoiled in its isolation, Stewart Island is like stepping back in time. Reached by catamaran, aeroplane or ferry across Foveaux Strait, this is the ultimate spot for anyone seeking peace and tranquillity. Here too are superb bush walks and great launch cruises in some of the most beautiful of New Zealand's coastal scenery. Bird watchers will find the island richly rewarding, and you might even spot a kiwi in its natural environment. Activities include saltwater fishing, sea kayaking, and hiking on trails provided with huts. There is comfortable accommodation at Halfmoon Bay on New Zealand tours.

Also visit the North Island

New Zealand Travel Information

At Goway we believe that a well-informed traveller is a safer traveller. With this in mind, we have compiled an easy-to-navigate travel information section dedicated to New Zealand.vacation 

Learn about the history and culture of New Zealand, the must-try food and drink, and what to pack in your suitcase. Read about New Zealand's nature and wildlife, weather and geography, along with 'Country Quickfacts' compiled by our travel experts. Our globetrotting tips and our visa and health information will help ensure you're properly prepared for a safe and enjoyable trip. The only way you could possibly learn more is by embarking on your journey and discovering New Zealand for yourself. Start exploring...book a New Zealand vacation today!

Extend Your Stay

Consider an additional stopover to your New Zealand vacation at one of Goway's South Pacific destinations. You can choose from our selection of Australian vacations, Tahiti vacation packages or stay at one of our Fiji resorts or perhaps take a Cook Island vacation. This can be done stopping over en route to or from New Zealand.

 

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South Island

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• Christchurch: Essence of New Zealand: Premier Escorted Vacation

  FIRST-CLASS | ESCORTED COACH TOURING: Discover the best of New Zealand from Christchurch to Auckland on this brisk, first class coach tour that includes the Fiordlands, adventure-loving Queenstown, glacier country, the Marlborough wine region, Rotorua, the Bay of Islands, and more.

  Duration:

  20 Days

  Prices From:

  AU$ 11,468

  Trip Type:

  Classics (Bestsellers), Escorted Coach Touring, Tailor-made Travel Ideas

  New Zealand See Trip Details

• Christchurch: Great New Zealand Rail & Cruise Experience: Premier Escorted Vacation

  This escorted experience is perfect for train buffs. Travel on coaches, cruises and enjoy iconic New Zealand rail journeys while staying in comfortable accommodation. The journey will take you from Auckland and geothermal centre of Rotorua, to the capital of Wellington before moving onto the South Island and exploring famous Milford Sound.

  Duration:

  19 Days

  Prices From:

  AU$ On Request

  Trip Type:

  Escorted Coach Touring, Rail Travel Ideas, Single Friendly

  New Zealand See Trip Details

• Christchurch: Incredible New Zealand: Value Plus Escorted Vacation

  MODERATE | ESCORTED COACH TOUR: Explore New Zealand’s North and South Islands on this 13-day adventure. Make your way from Christchurch to Auckland, stopping at New Zealand’s most beautiful lakes, mountain ranges, waterfalls, beaches, rainforests, glaciers, and even glow worm caves on this escorted coach tour.

  Prices From:

  US$ 4,195

  Trip Type:

  Escorted Coach Touring, Single Friendly

  New Zealand See Trip Details

• Christchurch: Jewels of the South: Premier Escorted Vacation

  FIRST-CLASS | ESCORTED COACH TOUR: Explore the breathtaking landscape of the South Island and enjoy premier accommodations on this journey across New Zealand. Starting in Christchurch, you’ll explore the natural wonders of New Zealand’s South Island, including Aoraki/Mt. Cook, Milford Sound, and the lake country of Queenstown.

  Duration:

  14 Days

  Prices From:

  AU$ On Request

  Trip Type:

  Escorted Coach Touring, Single Friendly

  New Zealand See Trip Details

• Christchurch: Southern Escape: Value Plus Escorted Vacation

  MODERATE | ESCORTED COACH TOUR: This South Island New Zealand tour shows you the Land of the Long White Cloud at its most dramatic, from powerful glaciers, to majestic Mount Cook, plus Rudyard Kipling’s ‘Eighth Wonder of the World,’ Milford Sound.

  Duration:

  8 Days

  Prices From:

  AU$ On Request

  Trip Type:

  Escorted Coach Touring, Single Friendly

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• Christchurch: Southern Tourer: Premier Escorted Vacation

  MODERATE | ESCORTED COACH: You’ll begin and end in Christchurch experiencing the best of New Zealand’s South Island. Travel by coach to view famous sites like Franz Josef, Queenstown, Te Anau, Dunedin and Mount Cook.

  Duration:

  9 Days

  Prices From:

  AU$ On Request

  Trip Type:

  Escorted Coach Touring, Single Friendly

  New Zealand See Trip Details

• Christchurch: The Long White Cloud Christchurch to Christchurch: Premier Escorted Luxury Vacation

  Delve into the scenic delights of New Zealand with a small group of fellow explorers. Combine natural beauty with creative comforts as you overnight in the rainforests of Franz Josef at the foothills of Mount Cook and journey into the far south to the wild and pristine landscapes of Stewart Island.

  Duration:

  12 Days

  Prices From:

  AU$ 8,904

  Trip Type:

  Escorted Coach Touring

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• Christchurch: The Long White Cloud: Premier Escorted Luxury Vacation

  Delve into the scenic delights of New Zealand with a small group of fellow explorers. Combine natural beauty with creative comforts as you explore Franz Josef Glacier, cruise along picturesque Milford Sound, and gaze upon the bubbling mud pools and geysers of Rotorua.

  Duration:

  19 Days

  Prices From:

  AU$ 13,369

  Trip Type:

  Escorted Coach Touring

  New Zealand See Trip Details

• South Island In-Depth: Self Drive

  Drive the South Island experiencing all it has to offer. Enjoy whale watching, Abel Tasman National Park and the Glacier Region as well as Queenstown and Scottish influenced Dunedin.

  Duration:

  12 Days

  Prices From:

  AU$ 2,859

  Trip Type:

  Self-Drives

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• South Kiwi Explorer

  FIRST-CLASS | SPECIALITY GROUP: Explore the beauty of New Zealand’s South Island on this group vacation. Enjoy a scenic sightseeing tour of Christchurch, visit the albatross and penguin colonies of Dunedin, explore Fiordland National Park, including a cruise on Milford Sound, and cap off the trip in the resort haven of Queenstown. Our Groups Only Specialist will be delighted to tailor your own private group vacation to New Zealand. Note: This is a sample itinerary, which is private and fully customizable for group travelers.

  Duration:

  8 Days

  Prices From:

  AU$ On Request

  Trip Type:

  Specialty Groups & Events

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• Walk & Kayak 3 Day

  Experience the best of both worlds with two days of kayaking and one day walking the Abel Tasman Coast Track plus enjoy a scenic cruise. No previous kayaking experience is necessary.

  Duration:

  3 Days

  Prices From:

  AU$ 1,739

  Trip Type:

  Active & Adventurous, Tailor-made Travel Ideas

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• Wines, Whales & Hot Springs

  Arriving in Wellington, explore the capital before enjoying Blenheim’s wine region. Next is Kaikoura, renowned for year-round whale and dolphin watching then relax in Hamner Springs.

  Duration:

  7 Days

  Prices From:

  AU$ 1,269

  Trip Type:

  Self-Drives

  New Zealand See Trip Details