Things to do & places to visit in South Island, New Zealand

South Island #2 destination in New Zealand 2023. The average rating score is 4.55 based on 157.9k traveler reviews, of 207 attractions. Timezone: Pacific/Auckland, current date and time: Monday, May 06, 2024, 4:48.

Top things to do (30)

Top places to visit (30 attractions) view more »

5.0 Doubtful Sound (2.340 reviews)
- Amazing 2 Night Cruise of Doubtful Sound with Real Journeys
Bodies of Water • Nature & Wildlife Areas

My family of 5 had the absolute please of doing the 2night Doubtful Sound Cruise with Real Journeys this month. It was worth the 2 hours scenic drive from Queenstown to Manapouri, 1hour boat trip across the Manapouri Lake and 45minute bus trip (as it snowed!) to Deep Cove where we boarded the cruise. We loved the food, staff, our cabins and meeting lots of other fun people on the boat. Courtney was a wealth of knowledge and was constantly keeping us updated about our magnificent surroundings. We saw seals, lots of dolphins, waterfalls, magnificent rainbows and beautiful scenery. We got to Kayak one morning and my crazy son alongside a few others jumped into the water for a swim! Apart from the first afternoon when it drizzled we had constant blue skies. I wouldn’t have minded a little more rain as it added to the ambience! It was an amazing experience and couldn’t recommended it more highly! See more..
5.0 Lake Wanaka (2.312 reviews)
- Great in summer or winter
Spent More than 3 hours Bodies of Water

I came by during winter to go snowboarding in Treble Cone and Cardona. The town isn't very big but does have quite a few food options and is located across the road from the lake. The lake itself has multiple large parking lots around it, one around the town and another around that Wanaka Tree. Both areas also have playgrounds and lakefront access. You are able to swim in the lake but as it was winter I just walked around and enjoyed the sights around it. The snow-capped mountains surrounding the lake were beautiful. The lake had pebble surrounding it instead of sand and there are fish living in it, which you can spot from the jetty. There is a path that goes along the lake and it looks like they are extending it along the entire lakefront. The path is currently being made to connect the tree end of the lake to the town end. Definitely worth a stop just to enjoy the scenery. It might be busier in the hotter months when people come by to swim so it could feel more crowded. See more..
5.0 Toitū Otago Settlers Museum (2.083 reviews)
- Modern, informative with everything there
Monday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Speciality Museums

Toitū Otago Settlers Museum is a museum of social history dedicated to telling the story of the people of Dunedin and the surrounding area, whose character, culture, technology, art, fashion and transport shaped New Zealand’s first great city. Its fourteen themed galleries feature interactive displays and powerful narratives tracing the human history of the area, from the earliest settlers to the most recent arrivals.Captivating exhibitions are complemented by an on site shop and café. A well-equipped research centre and archive is available for those interested in genealogy and other aspects of local history. See more..
5.0 Glenorchy-Queenstown Road (1.929 reviews)
- Breathtaking Scenery on the drive down to Glenorchy
Monday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent More than 3 hours Scenic Drives

The 40 something kilometres of the trip down the right hand side of the lake is one of nature’s best. The views of the lake and surrounding snow capped hills and mountains are beautiful. It’s hard to believe people farm this rugged beautiful countryside. Arriving at Glenorchy don’t forget to visit the historic 1885 hotel. See more..
5.0 Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre (1.588 reviews) from $12.95
- Marlborough Trip
Monday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Speciality Museums

The Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre was established to provide a world-class destination for the appreciation of historic aircraft. Some of New Zealand's most respected cinematic and special effects craftsmen have created a dramatic aviation theatre in which original and full-scale replica WW1 and WW2 aircraft, both static and flyable, are presented in all their glory. The museum is home to two exhibitions, "Knights of the Sky" and "Dangerous Skies". The former is on long-term loan from film director Sir Peter Jackson and comprises one of the world's largest collections of World War One aircraft and rare memorabilia. Thanks to Sir Peter's generosity the aircraft have been brought to life in a series of dioramas created by Wingnut Films and enhanced with lifelike mannequins by Weta Workshop. "Dangerous Skies" utilised local talent and features stories from World War Two and takes visitors on a geographical as well as an historical journey. See more..
5.0 Otago Central Rail Trail (1.221 reviews)
- Well worth effort!! Bike ride for all
Monday: 6:00 AM - 11:59 PM Spent More than 3 hours Biking Trails • Hiking Trails

The Otago Central Rail Trail - New Zealand's Original Great Ride. Open all year round this cycleway takes you through 152kms of remarkable Central Otago landscape away from roads and vehicles, yet never far from the next town. Whether you start from Clyde or Middlemarch, the wide easy gradient is suitable for riders, walkers and cyclists of all ages. You may choose to go solo, or share the experience with friends, either way it's a trail of discovery best enjoyed at a leisurely pace. Discover historic villages, enjoy local food and drink and the famous southern hospitality. As you travel through this untamed natural environment there is plenty to explore on and off the trail. Don't miss this 'must do' experience. See more..
5.0 Kaikoura Peninsula Walkway (1.163 reviews)
- Awe-inspiring magnificence
Spent More than 3 hours Hiking Trails

Always check the website for changes that might affect your trip. See more..
5.0 Lake Wakatipu (1.098 reviews)
- Picruresque
Spent More than 3 hours Bodies of Water

Lake Wakatipu was formed by ancient glaciers carving a valley. With a length of 80 kilometres it is New Zealand's longest lake. We had great views of the lake at our elevated accomodation St Morritz. At The Queenstown Steamer Wharf you will often see the historicand restored steamship TSS Earnslaw parked before departing on is several trips per day. We did the trip as it cruised the lake and we could really appreciate the size and beauty. At the Queenstown Mall end of the lake there is a sandy beach which is popular amoungst visitors. Also lots or recreational activities are available. See more..
5.0 Margaret Mahy Family Playground (1.064 reviews)
- Good playground
Spent < 1 hour Playgrounds

definitely a good spend by Christchurch City Council. Met another Dunedin parent there - we agreed that Dunedin City Council should invest in as good a playground like this one. we visited when weather conditions were not the best, however it was still a good outdoor experience. After we already parked at paid parking, we found out that free parking is available nearby - which is clearly a bonus! See more..
5.0 Hooker Valley Track (1.064 reviews)
- An absolute must do!
Spent 2-3 hours Hiking Trails

Always check the website for changes that might affect your trip. See more..
4.5 Skyline Queenstown (13.1k reviews)
- If you visit Queenstown, don’t miss it out!
Spent More than 3 hours Game & Entertainment Centers

Take a ride in Queenstown’s iconic Gondola and immerse yourself in spectacular panoramic views of Queenstown and the surrounding mountains. But there’s more! When you get to the top, discover a host of family-friendly activities on offer. Get your fix of downhill fun with the Skyline Luge, settle in for a relaxing evening with the best of New Zealand and international cuisine at Stratosfare Restaurant & Bar, or journey into the hidden world of the night sky with Skyline’s guided Stargazing experience. Located an easy five minute walk from the centre of town, a visit to Skyline Queenstown is a must do! See more..
4.5 Christchurch Botanic Gardens (6.757 reviews)
- A nice place to spend a an hour or two relaxing
Spent 2-3 hours Parks • Gardens

At the heart of Christchurch's reputation as the Garden City, the Gardens are a place of ever-changing beauty. Showcasing flora and fauna of New Zealand and other parts of the world, the Gardens feature one of the finest collections of exotic and local plants in New Zealand. With more than 1.1 Million visitors each year the Botanic Gardens are one of the Christchurch's most popular and well-loved attractions. See more..
4.5 Milford Sound (5.765 reviews)
- MILFORD SOUND FIORDLAND EXTRAORDINAIRE
Spent More than 3 hours Bodies of Water

The tour business in te Anau is quiet at present, so checking availability will help visitors. We chose this tour because of the chance to see more sights and the tour company owner. Les, spent some time arranging this tour for us even though numbers were low. The tour guide, Jamie, was fantastic and well versed in the local scenery and history. We had a leisurely drive over a usually hard road with bends and hill and often large numbers of vehicles, mainly busses. We had many stops along the way arriving in Milford with time to spare for the afternoon boat. A good lunch was available at a cost. The boat trip was really good and the crew, Hamish, the skipper and Julia the hostess, made the two hour trip most interesting with their individual comments along the Sound. A well worth the cost tour, saving us doing the two hour and near 120km drive. The weather is not always perfect in this part of the country, but every day can produce different scenic effects. See more..
4.5 Franz Josef Glacier (3.607 reviews)
- Awesome experience, not to be missed!
Monday: 12:00 AM - 11:59 PM Spent 2-3 hours Points of Interest & Landmarks • Hiking Trails • Geologic Formations

Westland Tai Poutini National Park, renowned for its Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers and the beautiful walks from 5 minutes to 8 hours that you can do in this area to view these amazing ice features, native forest, wildlife and waterfalls. The track up the Glacier river bed is 5.4 km return via same track Suggested duration 1 hr 30 min •This track is sometimes closed due to ice collapse, flooding or landslides – check the latest track conditions and weather forecasts at the Westland Tai Poutini National Park Visitor Centre before starting your trip. •Always take warm and waterproof clothing as the weather can change rapidly. •Carry drinking water, insect repellent and sun protection. •No drones allowed. See more..
4.5 Dunedin Railway Station (3.404 reviews)
- Impressive railway station
Public Transportation Systems

Dunedin Railway Station is located in the city centre of Dunedin and virtually across the road from the Dunedin High and District Court. It is known by its nickname of The Gingerbread House. When you look at the building you will understand why. Construction began in 1903 as it was required as Dunedin was a commercial and industrial centre, close to gold and coalfields, with a hinterland that was dependent on livestock and forestry for its economy. Its of Renaissance Revival architectureand constructed of dark basalt with lighter Oamaru stone facings. One can see the 37-metre clocktower visible from much of central Dunedin. The building is impressive inside and out and doesnt look like it gets much use. When I visited it had a Taieri Gorge Train parked there. It was a train trip I wanted to try but no trips were available when I visited. See more..
4.5 Queenstown Gardens (3.393 reviews)
- disc golf!
Monday: 12:00 AM - 11:59 PM Spent 2-3 hours Gardens

The gardens are absolutely beautiful and a peaceful place for a sit down in nature. They are very well-kept, and there are plenty of benches and grass space. It's so nice to see groups of people having picnics or even work meetings in the park. My favourite part about the gardens is the disc golf - the course is very well coordinated with a mix of difficulty for a fun game. It seems to be very popular, so it's clear to see that it's enjoyed by many others as well as myself. I have spent hours and hours in these gardens watching the sunset, playing disc golf with friends, and taking a picnic lunch to sit in a little piece of paradise. See more..
4.5 Larnach Castle & Gardens (2.966 reviews) from $24.61
- A must stay in Dunedin
Monday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Historic Sites • Castles

Discover New Zealand’s only Castle, built 1871 by William Larnach, merchant baron and politician, for his beloved first wife Eliza. It took more than 200 workmen three years to build the Castle shell and master European craftsmen spent a further 12 years embellishing the interior. Larnach spared no expense on his dream home, which features the finest materials from around the world.The Castle is still privately owned and cared for by the Barker family who purchased it as their home in 1967. Decades have been spent on the Castle's restoration, with the family having restored empty buildings from ruin and assembled a large collection of original New Zealand period furniture and antiques. Open to the public throughout, this conservation project has been funded through admission fees. The family has always been committed to opening their home and sharing this significant period of Dunedin and New Zealand's history.Scandalous and tragic stories, spectacular tower views and a Garden of International Significance complete this enjoyable award-winning experience. Boutique Lodge accommodation is available in the Castle gardens. Weddings, Balls, Conferences and Celebrations are held in the beautiful 3000 square foot Ballroom. High Tea is also now served daily in the Ballroom at 3pm See more..
4.5 Kiwi Park (2.892 reviews) from $32.81
- Kiwi experience
Monday: 9:00 AM - 5:30 PM Spent 2-3 hours Nature & Wildlife Areas

Enjoy the sight and sounds of New Zealand's wildlife and bush in our 5 acre breeding sanctuary. See real kiwi and over twenty other native birds and reptiles, including the Tuatara. Experience conservation in action. Kiwi Encounters: 10am, 12pm, 2pm, 3pm & 6pm Live Bird and Conservation Show: 11am, 1.30pm, 4pm See more..
4.5 International Antarctic Centre (2.802 reviews)
- International Antarctic Centre, Christchurch NZ
Monday: 9:00 AM - 4:30 PM Spent 2-3 hours Speciality Museums

It's the ultimate Antarctic adventure! Experience the dramatic seasonal lighting in the four seasons of Antarctica show where it 'snows' every 6 minutes. Venture out on to 'the ice' from Scott Base to play in 'Antarctica' the snow & ice experience and survive an Antarctic storm! How long can you hold your hand in the icy Antarctic water? Hang out with Little Blue Penguins, buckle up for the famously exciting Hagglund ride, take an awesome simulated 4D Antarctic cruise, watch Happy Feet 4D, then watch a stunning movie on a MASSIVE screen! It's the closest you'll get to Antarctica without mounting your own expedition! See more..
4.5 Canterbury Museum (2.793 reviews)
- Canterbury Museum
Monday: 9:00 AM - 5:30 PM Spent 1-2 hours History Museums

04/01/2023: The Museum is on the cusp of a much-needed building redevelopment and is closed until 28 January as we prepare for a blockbuster farewell exhibition, 'SHIFT: Urban Art Takeover'. The Museum will close for construction to start on 11 April. Free entry (donations appreciated) where you can experience New Zealand's rich cultural and natural history. See rare Maori artefacts and more than 1,000 paua shells adorning the walls of the famous Paua Shell House. Walk down the Christchurch Street and be transported back in time with the sights and sounds of the city's pioneering days. Discover one of the world's most significant collections from the heroic age of Antarctic exploration and discovery. Regular temporary exhibitions. See more..
4.5 Lake Tekapo (2.663 reviews) from $25.89
- Lake and Stars
Bodies of Water

Quite a beautiful lake both in summer and in winter. The bluey-green water is something nice to see particularly when walking over the footbridge. There is plenty of walking paths around so you are able to enjoy nature and the scenery around the lake. My most recent visit was in the winter and it was nice looking at the snow-capped mountains behind the large lake. The place has plenty of parking, one lot on either side of the township, as well as public toilets around. There is a four square for groceries if you didn't want to eat out in the restaurants of the area. there is also a playground in the grassy area between the township and the lake. It is always a nice place to take in some nature. If you have the time, this place is also really good for stargazing due to the low light pollution. You can do it simply by staring into the night sky but they have quite a few tours for it. See more..
4.5 Te Anau Glowworm Caves (2.532 reviews)
- Must do in Te Anau
Spent 2-3 hours Bodies of Water • Caverns & Caves

Visit the Te Anau Glowworm Caves - an underground network of limestone caves lit by hundreds of glowworms. In the darkness they produce a glittering display. Carved out by the force of the river, the underground world is surprisingly beautiful with whirlpools and roaring waterfalls. Begin with a scenic cruise across Lake Te Anau and then our nature guides will take you in groups through the caves and then in a small boat into the grotto. See more..
4.5 Pancake Rocks and Blowholes Walk (2.412 reviews)
- One of the most impressive sights of the South Island
Spent < 1 hour Hiking Trails • Geologic Formations

Always check the website for changes that might affect your trip. See more..
4.5 Cardboard Cathedral (2.264 reviews)
- Innovative design
Spent < 1 hour Points of Interest & Landmarks • Churches & Cathedrals

We would recommend a visit to this “temporary” cathedral but make sure that you have a tour with one of the volunteer guides. Without that you don’t realise what an innovative building it is and how quickly it was erected. It is also very moving to hear some the earthquake stories, especially the link with the town in Japan where quite a few of the students who died came from. See more..
4.5 Christchurch Gondola (2.229 reviews) from $22.09
- Great Views, Enjoyable Ride
Monday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Trams • Observation Decks & Towers

For a “top” experience in Christchurch (15 minute drive from central city), enjoy a relaxing ride to the summit of the Port Hills. Spectacular 360 degree views of the city, Lyttelton Harbour, the majestic Southern Alps and Canterbury Plains. Plenty to see and do - experience the Time Tunnel Ride, go shopping, relax and enjoy a snack or beverage at the Red Rock Cafe. See more..
4.5 The Royal Albatross Centre (2.138 reviews)
- Excellent visit duo tour
Monday: 10:15 AM - 4:30 PM Spent 2-3 hours Points of Interest & Landmarks • Nature & Wildlife Areas

The only chance to see... the world's only mainland Royal Albatross Breeding Colony. A unique experience to access the nature reserve to see giant albatross court, mate, raise their chicks and show off their three metre wingspans. Taiaroa Head/Pukekura is alive with wildlife species, many of them scarce nesting seabirds. Our jewel in the crown is the Northern Royal Albatross. Experience it for yourself by taking a guided tour through the Nature Reserve into the viewing Observatory. The 2012 latest Lonely Planet publication "1000 Ultimate Sights" features the Royal Albatross Centre alongside the Taj Mahal and Grand Canyon. They say of us: Here at one of New Zealand's hottest attractions the draw card is the bird life. Taiaroa Head is the site of the world's only mainland royal albatross breeding ground, where you can observe the spectacle of the albatrosses with wingspans of up to 3m coming in to land like a succession of 747s. The Royal Albatross Centre is located on the tip of the Otago Peninsula, about a 45 minute drive from Dunedin. We are operated by the Otago Peninsula Trust, a charitable trust formed in 1967 for the protection of the local natural environment. The Nature Reserve on Taiaroa Head is managed by the Department of Conservation. Taiaroa Head is also famous in New Zealand history. From a small Maori camp in the 1300s to a fortified pa where the Treaty of Waitangi was signed in 1840; from a wooden flagstaff to 1864 lighthouse to radar entrance for Otago Harbour; from an 1880s underground fortress to a large defence base in WWII. Taiaroa Head is today a Nature Reserve and an iconic wildlife attraction. See more..
4.5 The Church of the Good Shepherd (2.107 reviews)
- An Awesome Place to Worship the God of your own understanding.
Spent < 1 hour Churches & Cathedrals

The Church of the Good Shepherd is situated on the shores of Lake Tekapo amongst the natural beauty of the lake and the mountains. The Church of the Good Shepherd was built to the glory of God as a memorial to the pioneers of the Mackenzie Country. "Somehow the setting and the church combine to speak of God to those who enter and pause in the midst of their busy lives." - Peter Hurricks NO PHOTOS INSIDE Please do not use cameras, cellphones or tablets inside the church so that others may enjoy as is a place of prayer and reflection. PLEASE REMOVE YOUR WASTE There are no toilet or rubbish collection facilities in the area around the church so we kindly ask that visitors remove their waste and respect the natural environment around the church. See more..
4.5 Otago Peninsula (2.073 reviews)
- Stunning peninsula
Monday: 12:00 AM - 11:59 PM Spent More than 3 hours Nature & Wildlife Areas • Geologic Formations

The Otago Peninsula is a long, hilly indented finger of land that forms the easternmost part of Dunedin, New Zealand. Volcanic in origin, it forms one wall of the eroded valley that now forms Otago Harbour. The peninsula lies south-east of Otago Harbour and runs parallel to the mainland for 20 km, with a maximum width of 9 km. It is joined to the mainland at the south-west end by a narrow isthmus about 1.5 km wide. See more..
4.5 185 Empty White Chairs - Earthquake Memorial (1.841 reviews)
- Simple and moving
Points of Interest & Landmarks

It can sometimes be difficult for people to relate to tragedies affecting large numbers of people. Somehow it’s easier to feel for two or three deaths rather than 100, however, the creators of 185 Empty White Chairs were able to transcend this issue and deliver a meaningful and moving memorial to the 185 people who died in the 2011 earthquake. The chairs are different in style/design, which brings home the uniqueness and individuality of each of the victims, while the consistent ghostly white colour reminds us that they all suffered the same fate. There was a single fresh flower attached to each of the chairs, and this final element made the installment perfect. See more..
4.5 Quake City (1.734 reviews)
- Definitely worth doing if you want to fully understand what happened in the quakes of 2010 & 2011.
Monday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Speciality Museums

Quake City tells stories of heroism, hope and loss from the Canterbury earthquakes. This special exhibition from Canterbury Museum explains the science and the phenomenon of liquefaction – when the shaking liquefied the ground and it bubbled up burying street and sinking buildings. Quake City charts the aftermaths of the September 2010 and 22 February 2011 earthquakes and the extraordinary response of the emergency services, international rescue teams, the thousands of volunteers who pitched in to help – construction workers, the Student Volunteer Army, the Farmy Army – and the incredible resilience of Canterbury’s communities. Exhibition includes some of the objects which have defined the Canterbury earthquakes including the spire of Christ Church Cathedral and the clocks from the former railway station. See more..