South Island

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The South Island of New Zealand offers a wide range of activities, from adrenaline-pumping adventures in Queenstown and Wanaka to exploring glaciers and national parks like Fiordland and Abel Tasman. Popular activities include kayaking and hiking in Abel Tasman, hiking the Hooker Valley Track, seeing glowworms in Te Anau, and taking a scenic cruise in Milford Sound. For adventure seekers, Queenstown is famous for bungy jumping, skydiving, and jet boating, while both Wanaka and Queenstown are great for winter sports.  

Adventure and adrenaline

Queenstown: Known as the adrenaline capital, it's the place for bungy jumping, skydiving, and jetboating. 
Glacier hiking: Take a helicopter to explore glaciers like Franz Josef or Fox Glacier. 
Wanaka: A hub for adventure, with activities like skydiving, mountain biking, and hiking. 
Queenstown Gardens: Enjoy a stroll through these beautiful gardens. 

Nature and wildlife

Abel Tasman National Park: Go sea kayaking, take a water taxi, or hike parts of the coastal track amidst golden beaches and native forest. 
Milford Sound: Take a cruise or a scenic flight to experience the stunning fiords. 
Fiordland National Park: Home to Milford Sound and the Kepler, Routeburn, and Milford Tracks. 
Kaikoura: Go whale watching or swim with dolphins and seals. 
Te Anau: Visit the glowworm caves.
Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park: Take in the incredible scenery, with options to see icebergs on the Tasman Glacier. 
Stewart Island: Go see the weka in its natural habitat.

Scenic and cultural experiences 

Lake Tekapo: Marvel at the stunning blue water, especially when the lupins are in bloom (late spring to mid-summer).
TranzAlpine train: Take this scenic train journey between Christchurch and Greymouth.
Marlborough wine region: Go wine tasting at the local vineyards. 
Māori culture: Learn about and experience the local Māori culture.