Top 10 South Island

We've put together our own list of the 'Top 10 Things To Do' in New Zealand's South Island. Dramatic landscapes are waiting to be discovered.

1. Milford Sound

Experience the out of this world beauty of Milford Sound in the iconic Fiordland National Park. Boat cruises take visitors past dramatic waterfalls, sculptured cliffs rising out of the water and marine wildlife create an unforgettable atmosphere. Most will take a return coach trip or flight from Queenstown.

2. The Glaciers

Explore the dramatic Fox and Franz Josef glaciers on the South Island's West Coast region with the help of an insightful guide. Your options include glacier hike, ice climbing and helicopter flights landing on the snowfields above.

3. Bungy Jumping

This iconic activity began in Queenstown, New Zealand's capital of adventure. There are a number of different jumps, ledge swings and canyon swings available to thrill seekers. Many choose to head to the original commercial jump site at Kawarau Bridge or, the biggest of them all, Nevis Bungy.

4. Skiing in Queenstown

Queenstown's awesome Remarkables and Coronet Peak ski resorts offer views at every turn. In June, over 45,000 flock to the Annual Winter Festival, a 10-day celebration of winter with plenty of apres-ski action. A little further out, Treble Cone in Wanaka is another popular option.
5. Whale Watching

Marine activities are the backbone of Kaikoura, a seaside town just a few hours north of Christchurch on the east coast. Thereâs a variety of ways to go whale watching including boat, plane and helicopter flights. Whale Watch Kaikoura has a 95% success rate in finding whales on every trip.
6. Abel Tasman National Park

A visit to Nelson should include kayaking the shoreline or hiking along the Coast Track. Both provide a great way to see the stunning golden beaches of Abel Tasman National Park. The alternative, and more relaxing way, is to simply hop on and off the water taxis (with guided commentary) that transport you to the unspoilt islands.
7. Wine Tasting in Marlborough

New Zealand produces some world-beating wines, especially Sauvignon Blanc from the Marlborough region. Enjoy touring the cellar doors of award-winining wineries.
8. Otago Central Rail Trail

Taking three leisurely days on a bike is the best way to tackle the 150km Otago Central Rail Trail, which follows the route of a former rail line through some ruggedly barren country.
9. Moeraki Boulders

The Oamaru area on the South Island offers a beach with a difference. Large, perfectly round, natural spheres with a honeycomb centre, just lie on the sand.
10. Mt Cook & The Lakes

Visit Mt Cook National Park and 700 square kilometres of awesome glaciers and snow-capped mountains, including 19 of the country's highest 20. Aoraki/Mount Cook is the crowning jewel, a must-see for any true nature lover. Stay in Mt Cook Village and enjoy a number of outdoor pursuits including hiking, 4WD and Glacier Explorer boat tours. Close by are the must visit lakes of Tekapo and Pukaki that will have you reaching for your camera.