Experience New Zealand's Finest
in South Island New Zealand

The South Island New Zealand is an adventurers’ paradise. From the imposing Southern Alps to the plains of Canterbury, every kind of natural beauty makes its appearance. If you want to observe penguins and whales, explore a glacier, ride one of the world’s great train lines, or bungee jump off a bridge, then the South Island of New Zealand is the place for you.

No South Island New Zealand vacation would be complete without seeing the amazing scenery. The coastline is varied, with Golden Bay’s sunny beaches in the north, to the rugged coast of the Catlins in the south. The enormity of the Southern Alps is best felt when driving through the Haast Pass, with its many waterfalls, or by taking the TranzAlpine train journey from Greymouth to Christchurch. The Franz Josef glacier and Abel Tasman Parks are also highlights of the South Island NZ.

While most would consider the highlights of the island to be its great and varied scenery, the cities are well worth a visit.

• Christchurch New Zealand has many historical buildings and museums.
• Dunedin has a great Scottish feel. And the Univerity of Dunedin is well worth a visit.
• The Penisula of Dunedin with its albatrose santuary and rugged beaches filled with yellow-eyed penguins and walruses are a sight to behold.
• Nelson has great gourmet food and a relaxed feel and houses many artisians where you can visit their workshops.
• Smaller towns like Queenstown New Zealand, on the west coast, offer the conveniences of a town, but with easy access to the surrounding countryside. Have fun going up and down the steep streets. The steepest street in the world is located in this fun town. While you are there visit the Kiwi santuary and ride the luge.

The South Island was the birthplace of New Zealand adventure travel. Jumping off bridges (while still securely fastened with a bungee cord), tackling a raging river with just a small inner tube or board, speeding up the Dart River towards Mount Aspiring in a jet boat are just a few of the things adrenaline fiends can find in this region.

While bus and ferry service can take you to most of the major destinations in the South Island New Zealand, it can be limiting, especially in the winter months when schedules are limited. To really see the island, a rental car in New Zealand is your best choice. With the freedom of a car, you can see the highlights as well as get off the beaten path to find an out of the way hotel or sightseeing spot. Or, if you are content to see a smaller portion of the island, why not bike New Zealand? With a bike tour, you can really slow down and appreciate one region, as well as burn off the calories from your gourmet dinners in Nelson!

The best part of the South Island New Zealand is that its many great features can be enjoyed on any budget. Whether you’re camping in the Nelson Lakes, or staying in luxury accommodation, your trip to the South Island New Zealand is one you’ll never forget.