As I mentioned in our recent Armchair Travelling post through the North Island, New Zealand (North and South Island) has been on our ‘dream to-visit list’ for many years. Campervanning with the (now teenage) kids, and visiting all the attractions ticks all my travel wish boxes. We’re hoping that 2022 will bring us the opportunity to book long haul trips, and I think after the last year we all deserve it.
So, this week we are armchair travelling through South Island, New Zealand. I’ve asked my travel blogging friends to suggest a single ‘must do’ experience there. They’ve already helped build itineraries for Hawaii, Hong Kong, Cape Town, Bali, Sri Lanka, Vancouver, Iceland, Tokyo, Paris, Great Ocean Road in Australia and New York!
Fox Glacier
When visiting New Zealand’s South Island, one place to add to your itinerary is Fox Glacier, one of the world’s most accessible glaciers. Fox Glacier flows down to almost reach sea level when many glaciers around the world are retreating. It is more than 13 km long and receives plenty of snowfall yearly, around 30 metres of snow, which compacts at the top of the glacier. Fox Glacier is a frozen world of ice and one of the most stunning natural landmarks in New Zealand.
One of the reasons Fox Glacier is unique is that it moves up to four metres daily. In comparison, the Tasman Glacier, which is on the eastern side, only moves around 650 millimetres each day. It is incredible to listen to the crushing and grinding noises at the foot of each glacier. You could easily imagine that the glacier is talking to you.
Activities on Fox Glacier are perfect for adventure travellers, and the most popular way to experience the glacier is to go on a guided walk from the glacier floor. Heli-hiking is a bucket list item suitable for most fitness levels. A helicopter flight allows you to see the glacier’s breathtaking beauty from the sky, and you don’t need to hike uphill to discover features like arches and ice caves. Another fantastic experience is to try heli ice climbing. If glacier walking is not something you’d like to do, make sure you visit Lake Matheson nearby and stop at the vantage point on Cook Flat Road for a view of Fox Glacier.
Submitted by Christina, Travel2next.com
Lake Tekapo
Located in the Mackenzie District of the South Island, Lake Tekapo is an absolute must-see on your South Island adventures. The small but super cute town is surrounded by a stunning lake that’s a brilliant turquoise colour, and surrounded by the majestic Southern Alps mountain chain. It’s one of the most beautiful spots in New Zealand and on a clear day, you can see right across the lake to Aoraki Mt Cook, New Zealand’s tallest mountain.
Apart from the lake, Tekapo is home to a natural hot spring that’s fun all year round. In the winter it’s great to soak in the various hot pools, but you can also check out the adjacent ice-skating rink and snow tube park which is hours of fun. There’s also a spa on-site if you want some pampering. In the summer months, a giant inflatable obstacle course is erected on-site, including the epic Aqua Drop waterslide.
Lake Tekapo also has some of the clearest night skies in the world and is a designated Dark Sky Reserve, one of only 11 in the world. Various tour operators in the town will show you the various stars, planets and galaxies, intertwined with storytelling, myths and legends. If you take the option of the tour that Lake Tekapo Springs offers, you can combine your stargazing with lying back in the hot pools – a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Submitted by Kylie, Visiting Dordogne
Dunedin
If you’re going to spend time in one New Zealand city, it should be Dunedin. This small city (around 130,000 people) is home to dozens of beaches and coastal viewpoints and is the perfect place to explore over a few days. You’ll likely see wildlife (penguins, sea lions, albatross), beautiful sweeping views and some unique rock formations including the Arches and the Organ Pipes. There are also some great hikes in Dunedin, from short coastal strolls to the full-day (or two-day) Silver Peaks Track, as well as waterfalls, a bird sanctuary (Orokonui) and a train ride which takes you out to the stunning Taieri Gorge.
So, you now know that Dunedin is New Zealand’s most scenic city, but what else does it have to offer? Quite a lot as it turns out. Dunedin is home to some of the county’s most iconic architecture, including the railway station, university and two castles (Larnach Castle and the ruined Cargills Castle). Walking the streets of downtown Dunedin will reveal heaps of other quaint buildings and street scenes – it’s not quite like strolling the streets of an iconic European city, but it’s as close as you’ll get in New Zealand.
The Octagon is Dunedin’s “city centre” and it’s a great place to be on a sunny day. It’s lined with bars and restaurants, as are the nearby streets. Dunedin is perfect for an urban city break or a scenic sightseeing trip – the only problem is choosing where to go if you have limited time!
Submitted by Jon, See The South Island
Abel Tasman National Park
If you’re travelling through the South Island, be sure to take the opportunity to visit the stunning Abel Tasman National Park. Situated at the top of the South Island, the national park includes beautiful bush walks, white, sandy bays, and the famous Abel Tasman Coastal Track (a multi-day walk with gorgeous views). Cars aren’t allowed in the park and visitors often get there by the regular water taxis which leave from the lovely Kaiteriteri Beach (about an hour out of Nelson). You can choose to visit for a day or stay longer, with a range of accommodation options in the national park including campsites, luxury lodges and a floating backpackers, situated just off the coast of one of the bays.
The Abel Tasman National Park is a wonderful place for a coastal bush walk, followed by lunch (either a picnic or you can enjoy a gourmet lunch at one of the lodges) and a swim. Kayaking is another fun activity with calm, clear waters and a nearby seal colony which you can visit. Some of the most popular day trips include kayaking from Kaiteriteri Beach to the national park, past the intriguing Split Apple Rock. Then, once on dry land, stroll through the native bush and take a water taxi back to the beach when you’re ready to leave. If you have time for a longer stay, take the opportunity to hike the Abel Tasman Coastal Track or simply relax in the beautiful, tranquil surroundings.
Submitted by Roxanne, Faraway Worlds
Fiordland National Park
Anyone who has planned a trip to New Zealand’s South Island has heard of Milford Sound, one of the top attractions in Fiordland National Park. Whether dreaming of a perfect New Zealand cruise or planning a backpacking adventure, Fiordland National Park is not a spot you want to miss.
Getting to Fiordland National Park is pretty straightforward as there is only one road throughout the entire park, stretching from Te Anau to Milford Sound. Along the road, you can discover plenty of lookouts and quick stops offering some of New Zealand’s top hidden gems. Make sure to check out Eglinton Valley and the Mirror Lakes for the ultimate experience while at Fiordland.
If you prefer a longer hike, check out the 30 minute, easy hike along Milford Sound Foreshore. This very accessible walk offers spectacular views of Milford Sound and the surrounding bay.
Another unforgettable hike is the trek to Lake Marion. This hike follows the popular overnight Routeburn Track before it branches off towards Lake Marion. In total, you can expect to spend 3 hours on this more advanced 2.4-kilometer hike.
Before you head out to Fiordland National Park, make sure to pack appropriate clothing and footwear. The weather can fluctuate significantly within the park, so be prepared with adequate hiking shoes and sun protection. Also, try to plan your visit early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid the crowds at Fiordland National Park.
Submitted by Ellie, Ellie’s Travel Tips
Franz Josef
The small town of Franz Josef is located on the South Island’s rugged west coast, surrounded by lush rainforest and mountains. Franz Josef is famous for its large glacier which is one of the most accessible glaciers in the world, attracting many tourists who want to experience walking on it!
The glacier is receding rapidly, so the only way to access it is by helicopter on a 3 hour guided ‘heli-hike’ where you can walk on the ice and see the formations close up. The scenic helicopter flight takes 5 minutes from Franz Josef village and lands directly on the ice. A group of skilled guides then greet you and take you around the glacier tunnels, ice caves and rock crevasses, whilst explaining the history and geography along the way. The tours are a little expensive, but are definitely one of those once in a lifetime moments which are worth the money!
If you are a backpacker or on a budget then you can still enjoy epic views of the glacier from the ground. There is a flat and easy walk that takes you to the base of the glacier through valleys and past waterfalls.
Aside from the glacier, there are plenty of other fun things to do in Franz Josef, including relaxing in the thermal hot pools, cruising or kayaking on nearby Lake Mapourika, skydiving, quad biking and enjoying the lively drinking scene in Franz Josef village.
Submitted by Caroline, CK Travels
Milford Sound
Milford Sound is one of the top must-see places on the South Island, New Zealand. Milford Sound was formed over millions of years by glaciers. It is one of the wettest places on earth, with an average of 250 inches of rain a year. Milford Sound is one of the most gorgeous places on earth and an incredible experience.
Milford Sound is a bit of a drive. It takes about 4 hours from Queenstown, so I recommend staying in the adorable little town of Te Anau. The drive from Te Anau is about an hour and 40 minutes. Along the way, you will see some spectacular scenery. Make sure to stop at the Chasm, Knobs Flats, and the Mirror Lakes on your return drive.
The cheapest way to view Milford Sound is by a scenic cruise. There are many companies that offer cruises, it just depends on what experience you want. Some offer smaller groups or the option for an included meal. Most cruises last 90 minutes to 2 hours. Make sure to get a cruise that leaves before 11am, as many of the tour busses arrive after that time. If you have a larger budget, you could also opt to take a scenic flight or helicopter to view Milford Sound. No matter what, Milford Sound is an amazing spot to add to your New Zealand trip.
Submitted by Francesca, Homeroom Travel
Routeburn Track in New Zealand
The Routeburn Track is one of New Zealand’s most famous hikes. It’s a 32-kilometer point-to-point hiking trail located in both Mt Aspiring National Park and Fiordland National Park. The beginning of one end of the trail is only about an hour from Queenstown.
From start to finish you’ll get to experience the Southern Alps in all their glory crossing rivers, mountain passes, valleys, and lakes. It’s no surprise that Routeburn Track is a part of 10 famous New Zealand’s Great Walks.
It usually takes 2-3 days to walk the whole trail. If you want to stay in huts in the main season, you need to book them well in advance at the DOC website.
In case you don’t have time to walk the whole track, you can walk at least a part of it. From the side of Te Anau, you can do 2-3 hour walk to the Key Summit and enjoy panoramic views over mountains and alpine lakes.
From the other side, you can walk to Routeburn falls or even to beautiful Lake Harris and back to the beginning of the trail at Routeburn Shelter, which is a whole day trip.
Important things to know:
- Before you head off for the trail, check-in at the DOC office.
- Most of the Routeburn Track has no cell phone reception.
- Parking at each trailhead is free.
You can find more practical tips in this Routeburn Track hiking guide.
Submitted by Adriana, Svatbeni.cz
Lake Wanaka
The South Island of New Zealand offers endless adventures, but you won’t want to miss the opportunity to explore Lake Wanaka. It’s a bit of a hidden gem nestled into the middle of the mountains an hour outside of Queenstown. Here you’ll find not just a picturesque lake, but also a charming small town that sits on its banks. Plan a few days in the area to enjoy the lake and the stunning scenery surrounding it.
One of the best things to do in the Lake Wanaka area is to hike in the surrounding mountains. If you’re looking for a short hike, try the Mount Iron Track. It’s just 4.7 km and will take only 1.5 hours. If you’re up for a much longer and more challenging day hike, check out Roys Peak Track. At 16.3 km long with over 1,200 meter of elevation gain, it’s one of the best hikes in the area, and you’ll be rewarded with stunning views over the lake and the surrounding area.
Other great things to do in the area include visiting family owned Rippon Winery, situated overlooking the lake. You’ll get to taste their wine which is made with organically grown grapes, and of course you won’t want to miss the cheese plate. Top off your time in Lake Wanaka by exploring the little shops, restaurants, and rooftop bars in town, taking a cruise on the lake, or stopping by the Wanaka Lavender Farm.
Submitted by Julia, The Cure for Curiosity
Akaroa
An easy day trip from Christchurch, the small township of Akaroa is situated on the east coast of the South Island. As Canterbury’s oldest town, it’s a place that’s rich in history and has an interesting heritage. It was first discovered by a French sailor, Jean François-Langlois. However, by the time he returned to the town, it had already been settled by the English after the Treaty of Waitangi. The French decided to stay on regardless, and today you can still see many relics of the town’s gallic past – mostly in the form of French street names and architecture.
Located in a geographically privileged spot at the base of the Akaroa Harbour, the town has a mountainous backdrop and is a nature lover’s haven. One of the only places in New Zealand to see the native Hector’s dolphins in the wild (and have the opportunity to go swimming with them), it’s also a popular place for water activities such as kayaking, diving, and sailing. Those travelling with kids will love the large playground, pedal boats, and magical Giant’s House. Or if you’re up for a more relaxed visit, you’ll enjoy the small smattering of boutiques, cafes and restaurants that centre around the harbour.
Submitted by Nadine, Le Long Weekend
Queenstown
A favourite amongst tourists, Queenstown is actually quite a small town with just under 20,000 inhabitants. It’s often considered one of the best places to come for adventure sports and outdoor activities. Come here for incredible hiking like the trail up Ben Lomond which is the highest point in the area and should be at the top of your itinerary if you’re up for the ultimate challenge. Of course there are easier ways to enjoy a good view like the Skyline Gondola which takes visitors 450 metres up the mountainside.
For a more relaxing experience spend a day at Lake Wakatipu and enjoy the many beaches while you admire the scenic backdrop of the mountains. You could also go sky-diving, off-roading or even sailing, the possibilities in Queenstown are endless. Luckily you don’t have to be an adrenaline junkie to enjoy Queenstown. Even just a drive around the local area to places like Moke Lake, Lake Hayes or the little town Glenorchy can be an incredible experience. You’ll love that despite its popularity you’ll always be able to find a quiet spot in Queenstown and will be able to relax and unwind in this beautiful little town.
Submitted by Victoria, Guide Your Travel
Mount Cook
Mount Cook National Park is well worth a visit during your time in New Zealand’s South Island. Known by New Zealand’s indigenous peoples as Aoraki, this is the tallest mountain in the entire country. Not only is it renowned for its height, but this mountain is quite the sight to behold, making it popular with novice and professional photographers alike.
If you’re traveling the country by campervan, one of New Zealand’s best campsites sits at the foot of the mountain. White Horse Hill Campground is run by the country’s DOC (Department of Conservation) and is relatively basic when it comes to amenities. But the real draw is the jaw-dropping mountain views and proximity to some of the best hiking trails in the area. Get started early in the morning to beat the hordes of day-trippers, or head out for a sunset hike after the crowds have left for the day.
Speaking of hiking, one of the most picturesque walks being the Hooker Valley Track. This easy day hike is suitable for all levels, as long as you’re up for walking 5 kilometers (3 miles) each way. This track winds through a stunning valley and offers spectacular views of Aoraki and other mountains in the national park.
Submitted by Katie, Two Wandering Soles
Christchurch
Christchurch is a strong and tough city with ongoing reconstruction from the devastating effects of the 2010 and 2011 earthquakes that killed 185 people and left the city in ruins. Despite the tragic circumstances, visitors should include a trip to Christchurch, the biggest city, on the South Island, on their New Zealand itinerary. The city has used the tragedy to become creative and is now home to world-famous street art, which creates an enjoyable walk around the lively city.
Also, you can visit the impressive transitional Christchurch Cathedral. The Cathedral highlights the disaster the city had to go through with a sign of hope for the future. Also, there are many free attractions to enjoy in the city. For example, you can stroll through the delightful Botanic Gardens and enjoy its beauty.
Many people use Christchurch, as a gateway to the distinct Canterbury and West Coast Regions, and it can be easy to overlook on a South Island itinerary. However, Christchurch is an unmissable destination because of the quirky cafe culture, great coffee and vibrant atmosphere. Not to mention how close the city is to exceptional nature and hiking trails. Therefore, there’s no disputing that Christchurch should be on everyone’s New Zealand itinerary!
Submitted by Rachel, Average Lives
Kaikoura
Kaikoura is one of the most charming and beautiful places on the South Island, especially for nature lovers. The best thing to do when you are staying in Kaikoura is take a walk along the stunning Kaikoura Peninsula Walkway. This path is a pleasant stroll for hikers at any level of expertise. As you walk, admire the impressive limestone and siltstone formations and the adorable colony of seals. Just don’t get too close to the seals because they can get aggressive. Kaikoura Peninsula is also a fabulous destination for birdwatchers, so bring your binoculars!
The town of Kaikoura itself is a lovely place to spend an afternoon. You can shop for locally made jewelry and crafts at places like Ocean Arts or drink a craft beer at one of the pubs around Kaikoura. And don’t leave town without feasting on some of the local shellfish. Finally, if the weather is good, book a place on one of the local whale watching boats, and hope you manage to get a glimpse of these majestic creatures. Keep in mind that the boats will not go out if the weather is bad, so if you’re dying to see a whale, spend a couple of days in Kaikoura and be flexible about your schedule.
Submitted by Stella Jane, Around the World in 24 Hours
The Blue Pools
Imagine crystal clear waters or take a swim if you can brave the cold. The Blue Pools on the South Island New Zealand is a highlight and something you absolutely don’t want to miss.
This unique spot will require your own transport to get to, as it’s located in between Haast and Wanaka. The main car park can get pretty full during busy times, so there are options to park elsewhere at Cameron’s Flats Campground. Parking here will add an extra 30 minutes of walking time onto the journey but just means you’re exploring more of the National Park.
The standard walk into the Blue Pools is only three kilometres return and will take roughly one hour. Enjoy, and be amazed roaming through large trees and a well-formed track through the Mount Aspiring National Park forest.
On arrival, you will witness these unbelievably, beautiful, blue-tinted pools and marvel in Mother Nature’s gifts. Stand upon the swing bridge, clear your mind, or be hypnotised by the running water.
Feeling a little brave, then make it down to the water’s edge and jump on into the almost freezing stream. In fact, it’s known to be very therapeutic for muscle tension and blood flow to immerse yourself in below temperature waters.
If not, you can always just put your feet in.
Submitted by Chris, The Aquarius Traveller
