South Island of New Zealand
The South Island of New Zealand promises breathtaking scenery and unforgettable experiences.
The South Island of New Zealand is known by Maori as Te Wai Pounamu – Water of Greenstone. Much of the Pounamu (Greenstone or Jade) used in Maori jewellery was sourced from the rivers of the South Island, but the name also invokes the gem-like hues of many South Island lakes and rivers – from the deep jade of the Waimakariri River to the turquoise coloured Lake Tekapo.
South Island Destinations
Nelson
A thriving art and craft community, tantalising fresh food and produce, beautiful beaches and lakes, and world-renowned national parks make the Nelson Region a unique and inspirational South Island location.
The West Coast
Rugged, wild, isolated, untamed. The West Coast offers some of the South Island and New Zealand’s most ruggedly beautiful scenery – from dense primeval forests and scarred mining settlements, to glaciers and pounding surf beaches.
Marlborough
New Zealand’s largest and most renowned wine growing region, Marlborough is a place of astounding beauty – from the stunning coves and inlets of the Marlborough Sounds to the wineries of Blenheim, and the unbridled sheep stations of the Awatere Valley.
Kaikoura
From snow-capped mountains to rolling green sea, the small town of Kaikoura is a wonderland of jaw-dropping scenic beauty and special New Zealand wildlife experiences.
Hanmer Springs
Sprinkled with cute cafes and boutique shops, plentiful accommodation options and a fantastic range of outdoor and family activities, Hanmer Springs Alpine Village makes for a great holiday destination. From skiing and hot pools, to forest walks and white water rafting, Hanmer Springs is a diverse destination in any season.
North Canterbury
From the ocean to the alps, North Canterbury is home to farms, wineries, beaches, ski resorts and intriguing historic sites.
Canterbury
Stretching from the Pacific Ocean on the east, through the patchwork fields of the Canterbury Plains to the rugged alpine reaches of the Southern Alps, Canterbury is a region of diverse backdrops, attractions and activities.
Christchurch
More English than England, this charming southern city is guaranteed to impress. Wide tree-lined avenues, ambling inner-city rivers and restored heritage buildings make Christchurch a picture-perfect city.
Chatham Islands
The Chatham Islands are just about as far away from civilisation as you can get. In a country already known for its unspoiled landscapes, unique wildlife and strong indigenous culture, the Chathams have to be the crown jewels. Be enthralled by the isolation, hospitality and rugged beauty that the Islands have to offer.
Arthur's Pass
Arthur's Pass is a real get-away destination in any season. Close to a selection of top ski areas, tiny Arthur's Pass Village is also the base for a range of walks in the Arthur's Pass National Park, and offers spectacular alpine isolation for anyone wanting to really get away from it all!
Akaroa & Banks Peninsula
An explosive volcanic history and rich wildlife population make charming Akaroa and sprawling Banks Peninsula a spectacular year-round destination.
Discover Akaroa & Banks Peninsula
Ashburton District
Bustling city to remote back-country vistas; thrilling high-speed adventures to serene rivers and top notch skiing – it’s no wonder Ashburton District is dubbed the ‘Land of Surprising Contrasts’.
Central South Island
Sprawling between the South Island's east coast, the Southern Alps to the west and the Waitaki region to the south, Central South Island is a lively hotchpotch of home-grown New Zealand at its best.
Mt Cook & Mackenzie
Whether you come to explore, energise, or invigorate, the spectacular alpine scenery, crystal clear horizons, turquoise coloured lakes and golden valleys of Mt Cook & Mackenzie promise to captivate and excite. View New Zealand's highest peak Aoraki Mt Cook - simply stunning. Or check out the beautiful Lake Tekapo.
Queenstown
Compact in size, you’ll soon find that Queenstown is big on thrills. Adrenaline activities define this town – if it’s airborne, gravity-defying, exhilarating or just plain scary, Queenstown’s bound to have it!
Otago
Natural, unassuming and secluded – take a break from the frantic fast pace of the holiday hotspots, and head for hills or coast of the beautiful Otago region. Explore the Central Otago area and discover a beautiful New Zealand region with towns such as Lake Wanaka and Clyde.
Dunedin
Rich in culture and heritage Dunedin is an exciting student city with a unique and vibrant identity.
Fiordland
This exquisite World Heritage Area is one of New Zealand’s most breathtaking escapes. Deep fiords, towering peaks, and unyielding native rainforest define the dramatic region of Fiordland, captivating visitors from all over the world. Choose from stunning locations such as Milford Sound and Doutbful Sound.
Southland & Stewart Island
Literally the last frontier, Southland is a region of contrasting scenery and diverse faces. From craggy coastlines to heavily forested nature parks, Southland’s diverse landscape is sure to impress.
Find New Zealand Accommodation
No matter what your budget, style or destination, you'll find the ideal New Zealand accommodation for your holiday.
Find New Zealand Activities
Skiing, bungy jumping, hiking, jet boating... New Zealand is the ultimate destination for fun and adventure!
Search through the range of current accommodation specials to grab yourself a bargain.
The New Zealand Backpackers category includes budget "shared" accommodation in a hostel, lodge, or "hotel". Most offer a mixture of dormitories, double, twin and single rooms. Some rooms may include linen, or offer linen hire.
Bed and Breakfasts (B&Bs) provide "home-like" or "character" accommodation; think a garden cottage, converted villa or a 'homestay' arrangement. Bed & Breakfast accommodation will always include breakfast.
At the top end of the price scale, Exclusive accommodation includes intimate, luxurious and highly individual establishments offering the finest locations, food and wine, facilities, activities and service.
Stay with a New Zealand family, in their home, with Farmstay and Homestay accommodation. Homestays are commonly located in urban areas, whereas farmstays let you experience real Kiwi life on a New Zealand farm!
Freedom camping in New Zealand means pitching a tent or parking a motorhome on public land, without paying. Visitors need to be careful where this is done, as many regions will fine campers staying in undesignated areas.
NZ Holiday Homes are rentable time-share and 'summer house' type accommodation. Typically self contained and un-serviced, holiday homes vary hugely in size and are often located near beaches, lakes and mountains.
The New Zealand Holiday Parks category includes camping grounds and motor camps. All properties provide communal kitchens, toilets, showers and laundries and a variety of additional features.
A New Zealand Hotel is 'a property with at least one licensed bar and restaurant on the premises or adjacent, with charge-back facilities.' All rooms have tea and coffee-making facilities and on-site management at all times.
The New Zealand Motel category includes a wide range of accommodation - from budget to top end. New Zealand motels typically offer a 'unit' or room with a private bathroom and at least tea and coffee-making facilities.
The Self Contained Units category includes studio units and self contained holiday cottages. 'Self Contained' implies full kitchen and bathroom facilities and can comprise a studio or multi-bedroom layout.
Serviced Apartments range from exclusive luxury suites to affordable family-size accommodation. Serviced daily, apartment accommodation should include a full ensuite bathroom and full kitchen facilities.
Search through the range of current transport specials to grab yourself a bargain.
New Zealand is well serviced with a strong network of domestic flights to all the main centres.
Exploring New Zealand by bus is easy and affordable. Several companies offer commercial, as well as scenic transport for visitor, covering the length and width of the country.
Travel to your own agenda with a New Zealand rental car. The choice and variety are broad to fit your style & budget.
Take a cruise on a New Zealand ferry or water taxi. Journey between NZ's islands, or cruise Gulf Harbour.
Travel in luxurious style with a New Zealand limousine rental!
Explore New Zealand's back roads and highways on a motor cycle.
Motorhomes, campervans, RVs... whatever you call them, they're an excellent and popular way of discovering NZ.
Make your way around NZ on a multi-day overland package tour!
Sit back, relax and enjoy a train ride through stunning New Zealand.
Whether to the airport, across town or to another city, shuttles are a convenient and affordable transport option.
Taxis are available in all major towns & cities in New Zealand.
Catch up on travel news related to New Zealand and find out about local happenings without having to leave your house!
A selection of travel writers offer insights into some of New Zealand’s most scenic and often, quirky attractions. These stories are sure to amuse and inform you.