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New Zealand’s South Island

Famous for its starring role as ‘Middle Earth’ in the Lord of the Rings film trilogy, New Zealand’s South Island beckons you to discover its Oscar-worthy landscapes for yourself with an unforgettable holiday experience.

Admire breath-taking snow frosted mountain landscapes as you cross the Southern Alps on the famed TranzAlpine railway and gaze across the extraordinary Fiordland National Park on a cruise through the tranquil waters of Milford Sound.

Take in the colonial treats of the quaint Christchurch and Dunedin towns, and get your pulse racing in the adventure-sports capital of Queenstown… a New Zealand South Island holiday makes ‘mythical’ silver screen splendour an incredible reality.

 

What you’ll love most about New Zealand’s South Island

  • Discover the breathtaking beauty of Fiordland National Park, home to iconic destinations such as Milford Sound and Doubtful Sound. Take a cruise to marvel at towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and abundant wildlife, or hike the famous Milford Track for an immersive nature experience
  • Experience the adventure capital of New Zealand in Queenstown, where you can indulge in adrenaline-pumping activities such as bungee jumping, skydiving, and jet boating. Enjoy the stunning scenery of Lake Wakatipu and the surrounding mountains, and explore the vibrant town centre filled with restaurants, bars, and shops
  • Explore the stunning glaciers of Westland Tai Poutini National Park, including Franz Josef Glacier and Fox Glacier. Take a guided glacier hike, go on a heli-hike for a unique aerial perspective, and soak in the scenic views of the Southern Alps and temperate rainforest
  • Visit Abel Tasman National Park, known for its golden beaches, turquoise waters, and lush coastal forest. Kayak along the coastline, hike the Abel Tasman Coast Track, and enjoy swimming, snorkelling, and relaxing on the pristine beaches
  • Discover the renowned Marlborough wine region, famous for its world-class Sauvignon Blanc. Take a wine tour to visit award-winning vineyards and cellar doors, enjoy gourmet dining experiences, and explore the picturesque landscapes of rolling vineyards and coastal views
  • Visit the historic city of Dunedin, known for its well-preserved Victorian and Edwardian architecture. Explore the Otago Peninsula to see unique wildlife such as albatross, sea lions, and the rare yellow-eyed penguins. Enjoy a tour of Larnach Castle, New Zealand’s only castle, and the beautiful surrounding gardens
  • Visit Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, home to New Zealand’s highest peak, Mount Cook. Enjoy scenic walks and hiking trails, such as the Hooker Valley Track, take a boat trip on the glacial lakes, and stargaze in the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve
  • Head to Kaikoura for unforgettable marine wildlife encounters. Go whale watching to see sperm whales, dolphins, and fur seals, and enjoy fresh seafood, especially the town’s famous crayfish. Explore the scenic coastal trails and enjoy stunning ocean and mountain views

Where to Book

  • Holidays to New Zealand

  • Riding Coronet Peak, Queenstown

  • Milford Sound view

  • Aoraki Mt Cook National Park, South Island, New Zealand

  • Fox Glacier, New Zealand

  • Lake Wanaka, South Island, New Zealand

  • Tunnel Beach, Dunedin

  • Treble Cone, Wanaka

  • Hiking Sealy Tarns Trail, Mount Cook

  • Road to Westhaven, Kahurangi - Nelson Tasman NZ

  • Aoraki Lake Pukaki, Canterbury - South Island Tourism/Rob Suisted

  • Dining with a view over Queenstown

  • Wharariki Beach scenery - Oliver Weber/Nelson Tasman NZ

  • Cardrona Distillery, Wanaka

Average temperature

Information below is based on average highest temperature for each month.

  • 23℃
  • 22℃
  • 20℃
  • 17℃
  • 14℃
  • 11℃
  • 11℃
  • 12℃
  • 15℃
  • 17℃
  • 19℃
  • 21℃
  • 12
  • 10
  • 10
  • 12
  • 11
  • 12
  • 12
  • 12
  • 10
  • 11
  • 10
  • 11

Information above is based on the average number of days which experience some form of rainfall for each month.

Rainfall

When to Visit

Below gives you information and a rating of the best time of year to visit.

January

February

March

April

May

June

July

August

September

October

November

December

Our Ratings

  • Most Recommended
  • Recommended
  • Highly Recommended
  • Not Recommended

Where to book


Explore is a global adventure travel company with 40 years’ experience in providing exciting and authentic travel experiences. With over 350 trips in around 100 countries, Explore’s expertly crafted itineraries combined with award-winning tour leaders, small group sizes and a commitment to responsible travel ensure unforgettable travel experiences in extraordinary destinations.

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At Freedom Destinations, we take the trouble out of travel. We offer everything you need in one place; a great range of hotels, tours and activities, coupled with first-class service from dedicated specialists who work with you to create your perfect itinerary. With FREEDOM you can….

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New Zealand Sky offers luxury tailor-made tours and holidays specialising in providing expert travel advice and exceptional unhurried customer service. With a wealth of experience we will find the perfect trip for you.

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With over 40 years of making travel simple. Travelbag are ATOL protected so you are covered. Book with confidence. Find great prices on tailor made luxury holidays, flights, hotels and tours worldwide! Secure payments. Expert advice. UK based shops. Worldwide destinations.

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“We’re not your ordinary travel agency. We’re a community of travellers.
WeRoad was born to connect people, cultures and stories through that magical activity that we call ‘travelling’. We group people together and send them to live incredible adventures around the globe.”

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Hotels

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