South Island

Perfect for those who wish to experience an adrenalin rush on the longest jet boat ride in the Queenstown region. This journey offers you three hours of classic jet boat action as your expert driver negotiates the shifting shallow braided channels of the magnificent glacier-fed Dart River, and adds to the excitement with thrilling jet spins. You’ll discover the spectacular beauty that makes up the unforgettable Dart River scenery.

The best way to experience New Zealand is on the back of a thundering Harley Davidson as a passenger. Don a jacket, helmet and gloves and cruise the quiet roads. Ride through the rugged West Coast, along the banks of Lake Dunstan and amidst the Mount Aspiring National Park. Encounter some of the most breathtaking scenery and learn about the nature and traditions of New Zealand from your guide.

Franz Josef Glacier, found in the stunning Westland National Park, is one of the most spectacular glaciers in this region. Combine an awesome scenic helicopter flight over the glacier with a unique guided walk among the ice caves and pinnacles of this pristine, alpine environment. You’ll see the extraordinary colours of the iceflow from above and then up close, on an unforgettable guided walk.

This is a magical day visiting recognisable locations from the Lord of the Rings trilogy around Queenstown and into the valleys beyond. This Safari of the Scenes stops at breathtaking viewpoints along the way, past Glenorchy, following the Dart River to Isengard, with stunning views of Mt Earnslaw. Drive to Paradise for the Forest of Lothlorien and 12 Mile Delta to explore Ithilien Camp. X-Men Origins: Wolverine and Prince Caspian were filmed around here too.

Did the mythical god Tu Te Raki Whanoa create this immense fiord landscape with a magical tool? Cruising Milford Sound, with its mountains rising straight out of the sea, luxuriant rainforest clinging to sheer rock faces and waterfalls cascading hundreds of feet to the sea below, you might think so. As you cruise the entire length of this dramatic fiord, keep a lookout for wildlife – a seal basking on a rock gives scale to your photographs.

By bus and by boat, this full day brings you virtually everything this exquisite area has to offer. The volcanic Otago Peninsula has walkways leading to breathtaking views like The Chasm and Lovers’ Leap. Your cruise through the harbour takes you to view wildlife, such as seals, sea lions and penguins. Highlights are the guided tours of the Royal Albatross Colony, the Yellow Eyed Penguin Reserve and a visit to the habitat of wading birds.

Kaikoura is a special place of lush pastures and towering, snow covered peaks that fall to the sea. This rare magic continues just offshore where a deep undersea canyon combines with unusual sea currents to attract an extraordinary abundance of marine life. Every Whale Watch tour is a unique experience and the sightings vary. Giant sperm whales are the stars of the show and year-round residents. You may encounter fur seals and pods of dusky dolphins. Depending on the season you may also see migrating humpback whales, pilot whales, blue whales and maybe even an orca!