You’ll be spoilt for choice for things to do in the South Island of New Zealand. From the tip to the toe of the southern half of the Long White Cloud you’ll find magnificent mountains, winning wineries and adrenaline-pumping adventure. Many people compare parts of this eclectic island to England, Scotland or Norway, and everywhere you look there’s natural beauty and a pleasing mix of cultures. So head south to explore the compact cities of Christchurch and Dunedin and the memorable landscapes of Fiordland and Queenstown.
Things to do.....
Dunedin Attractions
Christened after the ancient name for Edinburgh, Dunedin retains a very Scottish feel. Combining natural beauty with a thriving cultural scene, it’s also home to the spectacular Otago Peninsula, and boasts some of the steepest streets in the world, where the locals stage a chocolate Jaffa race every year. Head for Signal Hill for the best views, Dunedin Railway Station or Larnach Castle for eye-catching architecture and Speight’s Brewery for the best beers.
Cultured Christchurch
Where Dunedin brings you a slice of Scotland, Christchurch delivers something quintessentially English. So English in fact that you can don a straw boater and go punting on the Avon River. Following the devastating earthquake of 2011, the city has been rebuilding, pop-up cafes and bars springing up on the streets. Take the Christchurch Gondola and you’ll gain sensational views of the Port Hills and picturesque harbour of Lyttleton with the Southern Alps visible on the horizon.
Fabulous Fiordland
On the South Island’s western shores, you can voyage into inlets guarded by awe-inspiring cliffs or hike up razor-sharp ridges. World Heritage Site Fiordland boasts fourteen stunning fiords teeming with wildlife, set against a spectacular snow-capped wilderness. The Milford and Doubtful Sounds are the most popular cruise destinations. but you can also soar over the mountains in a helicopter or small plane. The scenic town of Lake Te Anau provides the perfect base to make the most of one of New Zealand’s must-see attractions.
Now You’re Tolkein!
Master Frodo, is that a film set I see before me? Even if you’re not a fan of all things Hobbit, you should make the trip to the South Island’s most recognisable backdrops. Epic just doesn’t do it justice. From the Remarkables to Mount Aspiring and even Paradise, the place names evoke the dizzying array of snow-capped peaks, mirrored lakes and unforgettable fjords. So leave the Shire far behind you and voyage deep into Orc country.
Livin’ the High Life in Queenstown
Queenstown is without doubt the epicentre of New Zealand’s adventure and thrill seeking epicentre. Surrounded by spectacular scenery you’ll find a dizzying range of outdoor activities. You can choose between the exhilaration of wet and wild jet boating, canyoning and whitewater rafting. You can launch yourself along a zipline or swing across a gorge. You can leave terra firma for a scenic helicopter ride or let gravity and your instructor take control with a skydive. All are guaranteed to get the adrenaline pumping.
Bungee Jump from Kawarau Bridge
It’s time to fall for a true Kiwi institution. New Zealand is the undisputed capital of bungee jumping, and the Kawarau Gorge Suspension Bridge near Queenstown is where it all began. If you want to be tied up and thrown from a great height, this is the place on earth to do it. You can even share the experience with a friend and go tandem. But if this sounds too tame, head for the Nevis alternative, which is even higher and scarier!
