46 Fun Things to do on the South Island of New Zealand & Map!

When planning a trip across the country, finding fun and exciting things to do on the South Island of New Zealand are often at the top of every traveller’s search list. The South Island promises experiences that feel truly unforgettable, but knowing where to start can be overwhelming.

Many first-time visitors struggle with the sheer scale and variety of options. Should you focus on adrenaline activities, or slow it down with scenic drives, wildlife encounters, and lakeside towns? Add limited time, long driving distances, and seasonal weather into the mix, and planning the “perfect” South Island itinerary can quickly feel confusing.

After travelling extensively across the South Island myself, I’ve pulled together this guide to help you find experiences that genuinely stand out (with a Map). In the end, breaking down the best things to do on the South Island of New Zealand, so you can spend less time planning and more time making memories.

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Best Things to do on the South Island of New Zealand & Map

(Please click here for my specially pinned map to open or apply directions from your location)

1. Christchurch

We start today in the city of Christchurch, which has a population of 381 thousand people. It’s a brilliant base to start your exploration, houses a major international Airport and I would suggest staying here a couple of nights before moving on.

Most of all, it’s known for its English heritage, is really pretty in Cherry Blossom Season and is located on the east coast of the South Island. 

➡ Find Christchurch Tours HERE on GYG, or HERE with Viator

To find out what’s happening in Christchurch, make a morning visit to the tourist information cart currently set up in Cathedral Square. However, I really loved the Antarctic Centre, which is always fascinating and lots of fun. Surprisingly, It’s where you can experience a snowstorm, see some penguins or ride a Haglund (snow Vehicle).

2. “Lord of the Rings” Tours

If Middle-Earth is calling your name, a Lord of the Rings tour should be your first stop. After all, this is where it was mostly filmed, and you can see many sights around the island. Some of these sites include:

• Mount Earnslaw is featured in The Two Towers’ opening sequence.
• Walk the Arrow River (Ford of Bruinen), where Liv Tyler rode a horse while trying to save Frodo.
• Crown Range Road has your overall view of Middle Earth in the Cardrona Valley.
• Waiau River (near Te Anau) represented the River Anduin as the Fellowship paddled south from Lothlórien.
• Drive along Takaro Road near Te Anau, and this was filmed as Fangorn Forest.

➡  Find “LOTR” Tours HERE with GYG, or HERE with Viator.

While driving to these locations is primarily free, finding them and imagining the effects of computer generation is another story. Therefore, guided tours can be an ideal option where photos are supplied from the movies.

3. Franz Josef

I based myself for a couple of nights in Franz Joseph, as they had plenty of activities to offer. They are also located along the west coast of the island, with its own Glacier tours, Kiwi Bird enclosure, and fantastic hot springs.

➡  Find Franz Josef Tours HERE with GYG, or HERE with Viator.

I also managed to do a kayaking trip on Lake Mapourika, which was just beautiful in the morning. I found the lake very still and mirror-like, it was peaceful and meditating, and the tour was great for novice Kayakers.

4. See a Kiwi Bird

Since Kiwis are nocturnal birds, it means you’ll have only a slim chance by wandering around at night to see them in the wild. So, while this isn’t the best option for everyone, know that there are a couple of opportunities to see them in a wildlife park or a hatching facility. These include:

• Willowbank Wildlife Reserve in Christchurch
• The West Coast Wildlife Centre in Franz Josef (this is the one I did)
• Kiwi Park wildlife sanctuary in Queenstown

You can see some baby kiwis from June to March in their breeding Season). But, for the rest of the year, it’s possible to see adult Kiwis and learn about their life cycle, size, mating habits, and everything else about them.

Note: Baby Kiwi Bird is under red light to limit disruption

5. Stargazing or Aurora

Stargazing, or the Aurora around the South Island, has to be one of the country’s greatest gifts. With its especially low light pollution and dark skies, glancing up at the sky here is simply stunning. Not only that, the water reflections add an extra touch to a magical sky, whether from a beach or by the lakeside.

As far as viewing events go, no quest should be without taking in the magnificent Milky Way or a Southern Lights occurrence, which will captivate anybody’s heart! However, while the Aurora is less common, the Milky Way will be there every night (unless it’s cloudy).

Tip: For Aurora, Head out on a clear sky and look south!

6. Fox Glacier

Further along the west coast is Fox Glacier, and obviously from its name, another Glacier is located here. The town is small and only limited in accommodation choices, but doesn’t detract from the amazing things to do.

➡  Find your Fox Glacier Tours HERE with GYG.

This includes popular sites like Lake Matheson, which can mirror the mountains behind from it’s stillness. Or even more exciting that you could try a free 20-minute walking track to see amazing Glow Worms. However, while I was lucky to see the glacier (for free) in the early days, due to snow events and land slips, this area is now closed and you need tours to see it up close.

Note: The glacier has a viewpoint over the river, but I felt it was a bit too far away for my liking.

7. Glow Worms

Seeing glow worms in New Zealand is an enchanting experience. You’ll wonder how something so small and delicate can put on such a dazzling display! 

Fox Glacier and Te Anau are two of the most popular spots to catch a glimpse. Fox Glacier’s Minnehaha Walk is a great place to access these luminescent beauties for free as you wander through mystical pathways speckled with soft glimmering lights. 

Te Anau has more than its fair share of glow worms too, with easily accessible boat tours operated at night that view these stunning creatures. Whatever your chosen venue for watching glow worms, no doubt you’ll leave feeling mesmerized by the magical spectacle.

8. Heli-Hike to a glacier

If you have the budget, I think the best way to see a Glacier would be to jump on a Heli-Hike Tour to land on top of it and walk around. All up, this will take a few hours, including check-in, a short helicopter flight, and the walk around.

➡  Find Heli-Hike tours HERE with Viator.

While in the glacier, you’re given crampons (spikes for your shoes) and guided around different sections. This includes moving in and around the ice, through blue ice caves and looking into canyons. Ultimately, I loved every minute of it, totally worth the money and one of my favourite parts of visiting the South Island of New Zealand. 

9. Scenic Flights

Scenic flights are a great way to get an aerial view of the stunning South Island landscape. Depending on your desires, you can experience the nature from a high-flying Helicopter or take to the skies with a fixed-wing plane, reaching heights that offer panoramic views like never before. 

➡  Find Snow Landing flights HERE with GYG or HERE with Viator.

In winter, I took a scenic flight with a snow landing to add extra excitement to my adventure in the clouds! So, if you’re going to tick off one bucketlist item here, the flights are worth the extra expense.

10. The Blue Pools

Be completely amazed or jump in for a swim exploring the Blue Pools and be stunned at this area of Mount Aspiring National Park. I have managed to visit this spot a few times on my journeys, and I would definitely stop again.

You will find the car park just off the main highway and in between Haast and Wanaka. It takes about an hour round trip to complete the walk, and it’s not that difficult to complete. Although, when you first look upon the impressive clear blue waters, you cannot believe that a place like this exists.

Tip: If you have some time, then jump in for a swim – but be warned that it’s incredibly freezing.

11. Thunder Creek Falls

Accessible on a sealed road, Thunder Creek Falls is about a 1 to 1.5 hours drive away from Wanaka on the Haast Highway. The area will be signed, and an easy-to-get-to car park will be available. 

It’s a painless 10-minute walk from the car park to the viewing platform, but longer if you like exploring and walking over the rock if the creek is low. It’s one of New Zealand’s must-see waterfalls at a total height of 96 metres and is extremely loud.

12. Hooker Valley Track

The Hooker Valley Glacier Track is a fantastic walk to complete and located in the Mount Cook National Park. In fact, ensure you get in early for this one, as I’ve accomplished it twice now ( March & October), and both times were really busy.

It’s a good half-day hike (3 -4 hours), but not much elevation and an excellent clean track to walk on. The Lake at the end can be filled with Icebergs, which are fantastic for photography. However, It looks even more pretty with a bit of snow and starts close by the accommodations of Mount Cook Village.

13. Tasman Lake Hiking trail

The Tasman Valley Lake Hike is a shorter hike in the Mount Cook National Park. But it has a couple of tracks and some stairs involved to get to the different sections.

It only takes about 1.5 hours to do them both and brings you past what’s called the Blue Lake (that looks green). I was thoroughly amazed at this hike and would recommend it to everyone. During the Summertime, the Glacier breaks off, and icebergs float in the water.

14. Peter’s Lookout

Peter’s lookout would have to be one of my favourite views of Mount Cook or Aoraki on a clear day. Otherwise, this is still one of the best locations to see Lake Pukaki and gets down to the edge of the water. 

As you’re driving along Mount Cook Road, there will be a sign pointing to a Lookout on the right-hand side. Even though you’re still about 50 kilometres away from Mt Cook village, it’s still a first-rate viewpoint over Lake Pukaki and Mt Cook. 

15. Lake Pukaki

Lake Pukaki is the largest of three alpine lakes running north to south and located in the Mackenzie Basin. The lake was formed when the terminal moraines of receding glaciers (Hooker and Tasman) blocked their respective valleys. The water is a bright turquoise colour and seems cloudy due to the glacial flour (fine rock particles).

You can see Lake Pukaki from the New Zealand state highway 8, and it has a convenient tourist information centre and car parking. Alternatively, you’ll be driving beside it for almost 100 kilometres into Mount Cook National Park.

16. Winery Tours

A trip to New Zealand is incomplete without partaking in a winery tour and sampling many of the country’s wide varieties and flavours of wine. Tours are brilliant since someone drives you around and very popular from places like Queenstown or Arrowtown.

Try some of the many Sauvignon Blancs or delicious Merlots. Or, for the adventurous palate, a visit to Central Otago for Pinot Noir will be well worth it. While touring, guests can also engage in tastings, tours of the vineyards, and many other educational activities to learn more about the local culture.

17. Salmon Farm

If you’re a seafood lover like me, then you just can’t get past some freshly caught salmon. The Twizel Salmon farm serves the most amazing fresh raw Salmon to eat or even try a few different restaurant meals. 

Head out the back and take a look at the Salmon farm itself, or get a packet of food and watch the feeding frenzy as you throw handfuls in. This is only a couple of kilometres south of Twizel, so easy enough to stop on your way in or out.

18. Twizel

This quiet little town of Twizel is the perfect place to stay when exploring the Mackenzie region. It is a great base to see several different areas, including Mount Cook National Park, Clay Cliffs, Lake Pukaki or even day trips to Lake Tekapo.

Due to Twizel being located in a dark zone, as a photographer, it also means I have a lot of opportunities to take Astro shots of the beautiful night sky. Or, if you’re really lucky, maybe even catch an Aurora or southern lights.

19. Clay Cliffs

The Clay Cliffs are slightly south of Twizel and Mount Cook National Park. It’s an interesting stop-off and won’t take too much time out of your journey.

They are unusual rock formations, which I never expected to see in New Zealand. In Fact, they make you feel like you’re in another world and reminded me of a Vin Diesel Movie, “Pitch Black” ( let me know if you think the same). 

20. Lake Tekapo

Lake Tekapo is located in the Mackenzie District’s heart and is surrounded by a vast basin of golden tussock grass. It’s also an alternative in alternative in accommodations for the Mount Cook National Park and protected from rough coastal weather by the Southern Alps in the west and the Two Thumb Range to the east.

As a result, it allows this highland location to enjoy some of New Zealand’s highest sunshine hours and lowest average wind speeds. However, summer or winter, snow-covered or golden-yellow, the surrounding mountains and turquoise glacier lake make a spectacular backdrop for the Church of the Good Shepherd.

➡ Southern Area (Queenstown, Fiordland, Moeraki)

21. Moeraki Boulders

The Moeraki Boulders are unusually large and spherical boulders lying along a stretch of Koekohe Beach between Moeraki and Hampden.

These boulders are grey-coloured, which have been exhumed from the mudstone enclosing them and concentrated on the beach by coastal erosion. 

It’s said that each boulder weighs several tonnes and can get up to two metres high. However, scientists explain them as calcite concretions, which were formed about 65 million years ago. But, to me, they looked like giant prehistoric eggs!

22. Wanaka

Wanaka is a resort town on the South Island set on the southern end of Lake Wanaka with views of snow-capped Mountains. It has the buzz of a genuine alpine village with plenty of accommodation and a hive for outdoor activities. 

➡  Find your Wanaka Tours HERE with GYG, or HERE with Viator.

If it’s an adventure your after, maybe skydiving, skiing, canyoning, climbing, or mountaineering is on the cards. Alternatively, there are hundreds of kilometres of tracks for hiking or biking. Alternatively, it has a reputation for great food and wine, with a wide variety of lakefront bars, cafes, and restaurants serving exceptional local cuisine.

Tip: Remember to check out the famous “The Wanaka Tree,” this single lone tree stands by the banks of Lake Wanaka.

23. Clock on a Hill

There is a Short walk uphill to the iconic “Clock on a Hill” in Alexandra (1 hour from Queenstown). It’s a unique illuminated timepiece that has served the town since 1968. You can either start the walk from Alexandra Township or from Graveyard Gully Road. 

The track climbs steeply up a rocky and uneven path to the foot of the 11-metre-wide clock. This short 10-minute walk is rewarded with panoramic views of Alexandra and the surrounding countryside. 

➡  Find Mount Cook Tours HERE with GYG or HERE with Viator.

24. Steepest Street in Dunedin

Baldwin Street, in Dunedin, was recognised as the steepest residential street in the world in 1987. It’s a simple, straight road and about 350 metres long. It rises 30 metres to 100m above sea level at the top, with an average slope of slightly more than 1:5 (19 Degree Angle or 35%).

It only took me about 5 to 10 minutes to get up to the top, and OMG, was my heart pumping strong after that. But easy to do with the surface made from asphalt, but the upper reaches of this cul-de-sac are far steeper and surfaced in concrete for ease of maintenance.

Fun Fact: Did you know a charity event is held each July, which involves rolling thousands of Jaffas down Baldwin Street?

25. Gondola Ride

The Skyline Gondola is one of the many attractions when you’re staying in Queenstown! This is where you can enjoy the views while riding the steepest cable car lift in the southern hemisphere.

You will be carried up 450 metres to the top of Bob’s Peak, where you can appreciate your surroundings with 220-degree panorama landscapes of The Remarkables, Coronets Peak, and the town itself. While you’re there, you can sit down for a meal or drinks in the restaurant, or take in a thrill on the luge ride or bungy jumping.

➡  Find Queenstown Tours HERE with Get Your Guide or HERE with Viator.

26. Luge Ride.

The Skyline Luge Ride has two thrilling tracks with internationally acclaimed alpine scenery as your backdrop. The tracks twists and turns, with a beginner and advanced track available. You can jump on your specialised Luge cart and take control within minutes and race your friends and get confident passing others.

There are a few different packages, but I would recommend purchasing at least 5 rides. Ultimately, the first couple are to get a feel for the ride, and the next few will be a lot more fun. But you can get a better visual with this video!

27. Minus 5 Ice Bar

You’ll spend about 20 to 30 minutes inside the Minus 5 Ice Bar, with over 18 tonnes of ice architecture and extreme temperatures (-5 to -10 degrees). The sessions are booked in 1 hour slots, and they will provide coats, shoes, and gloves so you can live like an Eskimo for this short period. 

Marvel at the handmade ice sculptures, listen to the music, and taste some delicious cocktails (or mocktails) while drinking from glasses made of ice. An experience available for the whole family (including the kids) and about to check out their Frozen Wonderland.

28. TSS Earnslaw Steamship

Venture aboard New Zealand’s 100-year-old iconic boat and one of Queenstown’s most historic destinations. Step aboard and tour the TSS Earnslaw Steamship and cruise across Lake Wakatipu to showcase 90 minutes of Queenstown’s alpine scenery. 

Inside the ship, you can check out the engine room and the giant steams at work. View the historical photos lined on the walls and relax as you enjoy a wine/beer or some food from the Café on board. It departs several times daily from the Steamer Wharf in the heart of town, on Beach Street.

29. The Ski fields

If you have never skied before, then I found the Remarkables and Coronets ski fields ideal and lots of fun. As a beginner, we purchased a three-day pass with a lesson, which allowed us to give skiing a go, or just play in the snow.

We always find it easier to hire our own car, but there are plenty of public transport options to get there. I have another blog post to help you decide if you need a car in Queenstown here.

If you need gear, then you can hire at Snow centres available on the mountain or in Queenstown itself. However, certain items like goggles or gloves must be purchased, or you can bring them with you. 

Note: Other ski fields on the South Island are Cardrona Alpine Resort, Treble Cone, Ōhau Snow Fields, Porters Alpine Resort, Mt Lyford, and Rainbow Ski Area

➡  Compare prices for Queenstown Accommodation HERE with Booking.com

30. Shotover Jet boat ride

The Shotover Jet Boat Ride is one of the more popular activities in Queenstown and exceeds the thrill of danger with the Canyon Walls. You’ll speed over water as shallow as 10 centimetres, and experience 360-degree spins.

It’s very easy to organise your tickets from the Station Information Centre in central Queenstown or purchase them online before the day. They will also provide free Bus transport to and from Arthur’s Point or the Shotover River.

Note: If the cost of the Shotover Jet is a little excessive for your budget. Then there are more options including Lake Wakatipu, Dart River, Taupo, Lake Hauroko, Huka Falls, Kawarau River, and Fiordland.

31. Bungy Jumping

The Kawarau Bridge is located just outside Queenstown on State Highway 6 and listed as the FIRST AJ Hackett Bungy Jumping centre in the world.

It has impressive views, overlooking a cliff face above the rushing water of the gorge and allows you to Bungy (at 43 metres) or Zipline.

Whether you’re jumping or not, you can still get up close and watch others experience the Bungy phenomenon. I can still remember my heart racing and the adrenalin pumping through my system. That first dive off the platform was scary, but extremely proud that a managed to do it.

Note: Check out others like the famous Nevis Bungy Jump at 134 metres.

➡  Find Queenstown Tours HERE with Get Your Guide or HERE with Viator.

32. Hydro Attack boat ride

What do you get when you cross a fighter jet and a torpedo? Well, it’s the Hydro Attack ride, and it’s located in central Queenstown. This unique enclosed boat is painted like a Shark and is completely enclosed for river diving.

It can skim across Queenstown’s Lake Wakatipu at 80 Kilometres per hour, take a running jump and quickly dive under. The next minute you’re pointing straight up, blasting out of the water and airborne, only to smash back onto the water. 

33. Queenstown Botanic Gardens

Only a few minutes walk from central Queenstown and banks on Lake Wakatipu, the Gardens offer a beautiful and tranquil setting away from the touristy town. This way you can enjoy a picnic and relax with friends overlooking Lake Wakatipu or the Remarkables.

It has plenty of places to sit, admire the magnificent-looking trees and watch the ducks swim around. The landscape gardens include, water features, a wide variety of trees & plants, rose garden and a few significant memorials. 

34. Milford Sound

Milford Sound lies in the Fiordland National Park, but despite the name, it’s actually a Fiord, and lucky that it can be accessed by road. This means you can drive yourself from Queenstown/Te Anau or take one of the organised tours.

Almost everyone comes from the cruises, but kayaking and even scuba diving are available too. Rainy season are brilliant for the gushing waterfalls, but it continues to captivate even the most experienced traveller with its beautiful surroundings, ink-dark waters, and captivating views.

➡  Find Milford Sound Tours HERE with GYG or HERE with Viator.

35. Te Anua

Te Anau has the largest lake on the South Island (second to Lake Taupo) and tourism/farming are the predominant economic activities. It borders on the Fiordland National Park and many tourists visit as a base to stay when seeing, Milford and Doubtful Sound.

➡  See Te Anau tours HERE with Viator.

It’s also used as a base for those undertaking one or multi day hikes on the Milford and Kepler Track and what I hope to go back for one day. Visitors can also partake in activities such as kayaking, cycling, jet boat riding, fishing, seaplane/helicopter sightseeing, and the famous Glow Worm Caves.

36. Onsen Hot Pools

The Onsen Hot Pools are perfect for romantic couples or friends looking to enjoy a special experience. Enjoy the warm, therapeutic waters from the natural thermal spring while overlooking the beautiful Shotover River. 

The romance will make any couple’s outing feel like you’re ripped right out of a painting. We choose to visit in the evening and although we couldn’t see anything, it was still really special. However, I will definitely choose a day visit next time! But, please remember to book well in advance to avoid it being booked out.

37. Taste the local brew

No trip to Dunedin is complete without sampling a pint of Speight’s beer. Founded in 1876, Speight’s has become a New Zealand brewing legend, with its historic brewery located in the heart of Dunedin.

Visitors can embark on a guided tour of the Speight’s Brewery to learn about the brewing process, the history of the brand, and of course, to taste a range of their signature beers. The Speight’s Ale House offers a cosy spot to enjoy a hearty meal paired with your favorite Speight’s brew.

➡ Northern Area (Kaikoura, Nelson, Marlborough)

38. Train Across the Island

One of the most scenic and memorable train journeys is the TranzAlpine, which runs between Christchurch and Greymouth, passing through the stunning Arthur’s Pass. This iconic train ride takes you from the sprawling landscapes of Canterbury Plains before ascending into the awe-inspiring Southern Alps.

As the train winds through Arthur’s Pass National Park, passengers are treated to snowy mountain views, deep gorges, and subtropical rainforests. Along with comfortable seating, informative commentary provided along the way and I loved the windowless carriage for photo’s.

39. Hokitika Gorge

Finding my way to Hokitika Gorge was not on my original list when researching New Zealand. In fact, I didn’t even know it was there! But, I was fortunate that it popped up on a Hotel Television tourist guide in my Greymouth accommodation.

I found this place “unbelievable”, to say the least, with only a short walk and a gorgeous suspension bridge to cross. Although, remember to bring your insect repellent if you’re heading down to the water’s edge(I was eaten alive)! 

40. Tree Top Walk

Probably not for those afraid of heights, but this is an exhilarating treetop adventure among some of the rainforest giants. Conveniently, there is a Café available at the visitor centre for a quick coffee or snack, and a gift shop for those souvenirs.

Otherwise, you can meander through the Rimu and Kamahi tree canopy while experiencing life with the wildlife. 

There is easy access for all to enjoy along a steel platform 20 metres high and 450m long. As well as a spiral tower 45 metres high for those 360 degrees views. I even walked along the Springboard as it gently swayed in harmony with the forest, within view of Lake Mahinupua.

41. Greymouth

Greymouth is the largest town in the West Coast region and where you could base yourself for a night or two. It’s located at the mouth of the Grey River, on a narrow coastal plain close to the foot of the Southern Alps. 

In clear weather, Aoraki or Mount Cook can be clearly seen to the south from near the town. The area has a history of gold mining, which can be appreciated at the local museum and nearby Shantytown. Local brewery “Monteith’s” is something of a New Zealand legend, and it runs tours that include a tasting session.

42. Pancake Rocks

Punakaiki is a small community on the West Coast of the South Island, just north of Greymouth and on the edge of the Paparoa National Park. The popular tourist destination, “The Pancake Rocks,” is located at Dolomite Point, south of the main village.

These formations are heavily eroded and created with sea-bursts and vertical blowholes during high tides, producing the incredible “pancake” layering of the limestone. In the end, they can be explored by several walkways and stairs, winding through the rock formations.

43. Dolphin or Whale Watching

Dolphins and whales frequent the beautiful beaches of New Zealand, making it an ideal spot for those wanting to experience them up close. Tours are popular from Kaikoura, and also Picton, and Akaroa have some other options. 

You can marvel at these remarkable creatures as they swim through their natural habitat. However, it’s important to note that much of the dolphin and whale watching is seasonal, meaning certain times of year may offer better odds than others. Therefore, plan your trip accordingly. 

44. Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools

I had a very positive experience at Hanmer Springs Hot Pools & Spa, which is about 90 mins north of Christchurch in the Canterbury region.

Ultimately, it’s a great little town for a couple of nights accommodation. So, if you’re looking for some downtime to relax while trying to keep the kids entertained, then this might be the place to go. 

➡  Purchase tickets to Hanmer Thermal Pools HERE with Viator

They have many different types of naturally heated pools ranging from 38 to 42 degrees Celsius, as well as massage therapies, saunas, and slides for the kids. Ticket prices start at $40NZ for a single adult but ask about the discounts and packages available. 

45. Abel Tasman National Park

Abel Tasman National Park is the smallest of New Zealand’s 13 National Parks and certainly packs a punch for its small size. Featuring miles of golden beaches, granite cliffs, and secluded coves – it’s a destination that offers both adventure and relaxation.

Surrounded by lapping turquoise seas with rocky outcrops reaching from the shoreline. This utopian paradise is ideal for budding and experienced kayakers. As well as hikers looking to immerse themselves in the beauty of it all. 

46. Watching for Seals

Kaikoura is one of the best places in New Zealand to spot seals in their natural habitats. For those who prefer a self-guided experience, visit the Kaikoura Peninsula Walkway where seals are commonly spotted lounging on the rocks.

However, It’s essential to keep a respectful distance of at least 20 meters to avoid disturbing these wild animals.

Remember to bring your camera/Binoculars for some fantastic photo opportunities, but always prioritize the welfare of the seals by not using flash photography or making loud noises. Otherwise, consider taking a guided tour that include knowledgeable guides who can provide insight about the seals’ behaviours and habitats.

Wrap up!

Well there a wrap up to my list of the Best things to do on the South Island of New Zealand. I hope you can agree with the limited time you have in the area – It’s really hard to round down the choices with all the fantastic options.

However, If you still need help with inspiration and planning, please see my other New Zealand articles for research!