South Island has some of the best scenery New Zealand has to offer, from rolling vineyards and sweeping beaches to sparkling lakes and snow-topped peaks.
It’s known for its spectacular scenery, but there’s more to New Zealand’s South Island than just mountains and waterways. The cities of Christchurch and Queenstown are popular year-round and both must-sees for an authentic taste of Kiwi life. Enjoy world-class wine, superb walking trails and an incredibly diverse range of wildlife all in one place.
- Cruise or sea kayak in stunning and dramatic Milford Sound, dominated by the imposing Mitre Peak and home to diverse wildlife - it's on everyone's New Zealand must-do list for good reason
- Hike through or kayak along Abel Tasman National Park for some glorious scenery
- Head to Queenstown for the Shotover Jet, bungee jumping, luging and other adventure sports
- Let an experienced guide take you on a heli-hike on Franz Josef Glaicer which includes a 10 minute helicopter flight
- And you can't go to the South Island without taking in the incredible scenery as seen in The Lord of the Rings films
Popular Areas in South Island
Good to know
Time difference:
GMT +12 hours (GMT +13 hours from the last week in March to the first week in October)
Capital:
New Zealand's capital is Wellington, in the North Island
Currency:
New Zealand Dollar (NZ$) comprising of 100 cents.
Flying time to destination:
Auckland: 23 hours, Christchurch: 24½ hours.
When to visit South Island
| Jan |
Highly RecommendedPerfect time to escape |
| Feb |
Highly RecommendedPerfect time to escape |
| Mar |
RecommendedGood time to escape |
| Apr |
RecommendedGood time to escape |
| May |
RecommendedGood time to escape |
| Jun |
Could be Recommendedmight be time to escape |
| Jul |
Could be Recommendedmight be time to escape |
| Aug |
Could be Recommendedmight be time to escape |
| Sep |
RecommendedGood time to escape |
| Oct |
RecommendedGood time to escape |
| Nov |
Highly RecommendedPerfect time to escape |
| Dec |
Highly RecommendedPerfect time to escape |
Recommended South Island Hotels
Suggested South Island Tours
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Australia, New Zealand & South Pacific 2019
North Island
