South Island trip planner
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South Island
Māui's Canoe
The wilder of New Zealand's two main islands, South Island offers a feast of nature in all its glory. Extensive, untouched plains connect alpine landscapes with rugged shorelines, creating a home for an abundance of animals and vegetation, on land and in the rich surrounding waters. Renowned as a window to the natural world before man (something that scores of film directors have tapped into over the years), South Island folds its cities and townships into the surrounding landscape, their populations adding something singular to the mix. On your trip to South Island, you'll witness the awe-inspiring cultural heritage of the Maori, whose art and architecture complements the developments of the colonial legacy. The result is a land of characterful buildings, rolling vineyards, and free-spirited adventure. Use our New Zealand itinerary maker to plan your trip to South Island and other destinations in New Zealand.
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Top South Island tours
Places to visit in South Island
QueenstownTrip planner
BEST FOR: Entertainment Center, Water Sport, Spa
Te AnauTrip planner
BEST FOR: World heritage site, Water Body, Cave
Aoraki Mount Cook National Park (Te Wahipounamu)Trip planner
BEST FOR: World heritage site, Hiking Trail, Observatory
ChristchurchTrip planner
BEST FOR: Garden, Specialty Museum, History Museum
Fox GlacierTrip planner
BEST FOR: World heritage site, Hiking Trail, Scenic Walking Area
Popular things to do in South Island
Hidden gems in South Island
Trails in South Island
Nature in South Island
Wildlife in South Island
Museums in South Island
Featured attractions
Recently planned trips to South Island
1 day in Methven
BY A USER FROM NEW ZEALAND
Ashburton Aviation Museum
Methven Sports Massage
Aoraki Balloon Safaris
23 days in New Zealand
BY A USER FROM SAUDI ARABIA
Queenstown
Wellington
Tongariro National Park
30 days in South Pacific
BY A USER FROM SAUDI ARABIA
Sydney
Paihia
Rotorua
3 days in Stewart Island
BY A USER FROM NEW ZEALAND
Rakiura Museum
Beaks and Feathers
Ulva Island
17 days in New Zealand
BY A USER FROM NEW ZEALAND
Queenstown
Te Anau
Paihia
6 days in Christchurch & Queenstown
BY A USER FROM NEW ZEALAND
Christchurch
Queenstown