The South Island of New Zealand is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, rich culture, and welcoming people, making it one of the most captivating destinations. Exploring this magnificent island necessitates a rental car, as you’ll need to navigate the roads—keeping in mind the unique driving perspective, especially for those accustomed to driving on the opposite side.
This guide is designed to help you discover the best experiences the South Island has to offer.
Island Overview
The indigenous Māori culture flourishes here, inviting visitors to engage with their history through museums or conversations with the Māori people. The customs and traditions of the Māori are striking, and their renowned hospitality coupled with a profound respect for the land underscores the importance of cultural exchange. The collaboration between the Māori and the descendants of settlers is remarkable, as they work together towards solutions beneficial for all.
Wildlife Insights
New Zealand boasts a plethora of extraordinary bird species; however, many mammals encountered are non-native and invasive. The island has five species of introduced deer, as well as rabbits, wallabies, stoats, and more—species introduced by English settlers pursuing game to hunt. These introduced animals pose significant threats to local ecosystems, particularly wallabies and stoats, which can severely disrupt native species, already limited in number.
The largest native land mammal here is a bat, though the coastline is rich in marine life that includes three types of penguins, dolphins, whales, and various pelagic birds.
Optimal Visiting Period
The period just before winter emerges as an excellent time to visit. Crowds are significantly reduced, allowing for greater opportunities to secure last-minute tickets for unique experiences, such as observing blue penguins returning to shore at night, touring glowworm caves, or cruising through Fiordland National Park.
Conversely, the summer months (December to February) attract the highest number of tourists, which can be challenging for securing accommodations and activities. During my first visit in late April, the risk of rain was present; nonetheless, the experience was rewarding.
Travel Logistics
Most international flights arrive at Auckland on the North Island. From Auckland, a short flight to Christchurch, located on the South Island, is necessary. For those focusing on the southern regions of the South Island, Dunedin may be a more convenient arrival point.
Transportation Tips
Renting a car represents the most effective way to traverse the South Island. As the locals drive on the opposite side compared to countries like the United States and Canada, adjustments may be needed. Personally, I found it intuitive and had a smooth transition, aided by my rental agent who provided useful resources on local driving norms.
If driving presents discomfort, consider joining a bus tour. Although this option affords less flexibility due to adherence to schedules, it eliminates much of the logistical planning associated with self-guided travel. Personally, I enjoyed the freedom of driving through New Zealand.
Top Experiences on the South Island
To maximize your experience, I suggest planning a road loop around the South Island. This approach allows for overnight stops in charming towns, offering opportunities to absorb the local culture along the way. Traveling this way will enrich your experience as some attractions are situated considerable distances apart.
Commencing in Christchurch, you can choose to explore either the west or east coast first. My first stay was in Geraldine, a quaint town providing delightful dining options and comfortable accommodations—perfect for replenishing energy before diving into your adventure.
Oamaru
Once you’ve acclimatized from your journey, your first stop can be Oamaru. This endearing town offers a unique opportunity to see the smallest species of penguin, the little blue penguin, up close.
Oamaru Blue Penguin Colony
Address: 17 Waterfront Road, South Hill, Oamaru 9400, New Zealand
This longstanding conservation initiative channels proceeds into the protection of these unique creatures. Each night, after their day of foraging at sea, groups of penguins known as rafts return to the colony. The sound of their return is remarkable. Witnessing them come back is a special experience; the colony is adjacent to the entrance building, where, during the day, some pairs may linger behind to care for their young. However, the real excitement lies in the evening visit.
Two sets of bleacher seating are available for viewing the penguins as they arrive. Photography is strictly prohibited to avoid stressing the penguins, and silence is essential during this time to ensure they feel secure enough to return to their colony.
For more information about their initiatives, consider visiting the Oamaru Blue Penguin Colony website to view their live cameras and discover their conservation efforts.
Bushy Beach
Address: Otago Region 9400, New Zealand
Nearby lies Bushy Beach, another excellent location to observe yellow-eyed penguins as they return home at dusk. The staff at the Oamaru Blue Penguin Colony monitors their arrival times and can provide valuable information to visitors hoping to see them.
Viewing the penguins occurs from atop a bluff, so it’s wise to bring binoculars or a zoom camera for the best experience.
Scott’s Brewery
Address: 1 Wansbeck Street, South Hill, Oamaru 9400, New Zealand
After enjoying time with the penguins, head over to Scott’s Brewery for delightful pizza and craft beer, highly recommended by locals and sure to please your palate.
Dunedin
Continuing south along the eastern coast leads to Dunedin, a vibrant university town brimming with dining and lodging options, along with numerous nearby attractions, particularly for wildlife enthusiasts.
Orokonui Ecosanctuary
Address: 600 Blueskin Road, Dunedin 9081, New Zealand
Before reaching Dunedin, consider a diversion to the Orokonui Ecosanctuary. The sanctuary features several trails, offering impressive wildlife viewing opportunities. It is home to various species, including the Kākā, Takahē (once considered extinct but recovering through conservation efforts), and kiwi, alongside several reptiles and amphibians visible on warm days.
Sandfly Beach
This beach is regarded as one of the island’s most picturesque locations. Contrary to assumptions, the name derives from the sand that dances on the wind rather than the presence of pesky insects. Sandfly Beach also offers sightings of yellow-eyed penguins, additional bird species, and the New Zealand sea lion.
A small parking area accommodates approximately ten vehicles at the bluff’s summit, with a hike down to the beach granting access to stunning vistas and a favored penguin observation point at dusk. I wholeheartedly recommend making this stop during your journey.
Royal Albatross Center
Address: 1259 Harington Point Road, Harington Point 9077, New Zealand
Home to the mainland’s only Royal Albatross breeding colony, this center, classified as vulnerable by the IUCN, allows you to observe these magnificent birds. While viewing is possible only through glass for their safety, the experience is undeniably worthwhile.
For more details on visit options, please refer to the Royal Albatross Center’s website .
Tunnel Beach
Highly recommended by locals, Tunnel Beach is a must-visit. Be sure to check their website in advance, as it may be closed on various occasions. It’s also crucial to coordinate visits with the tide schedule, as low tide is optimal for exploring this stunning location.
For tunnel beach updates, visit the Department of Conservation’s page .
Catlins Forest Park
Heading further south takes you to Catlins Forest Park, a perfect location for hiking and waterfall exploration. Noteworthy highlights include Nugget Lighthouse, Pūrākaunui Falls, Cathedral Caves, and McLean Falls—options abound for both short day hikes and more extensive trekking experiences.
Plan your adventure by visiting the Catlins Forest official website .
Stewart Island
Situated at the southern tip of the South Island, Stewart Island is New Zealand’s third-largest island. Accessible via car ferry, the island offers a handful of accommodations and dining venues, making it ideal for immersing yourself in nature and birdwatching. On a lucky day, you might glimpse a kiwi. Don’t miss the opportunity to witness the Aurora Australis or Southern Lights while there.
Te Anau
After discovering the eastern coast, it’s time to venture towards the Southern Alps and the higher elevations along the West Coast of the South Island. Te Anau serves as an excellent base for several days of exploration.
Glowworm Cave Tour
This experience is a must. Partnering with Real NZ, I enjoyed two different tours with them. The central meeting location in Te Anau preceded a boat ride of approximately half an hour to the glowworm cave site. Motion sickness can be a concern, so preparation is key.
Your group will be briefed by your tour guide before entering the cave, where no photography is permitted, allowing everyone to fully engage with the experience. Inside, the cave presents breathtaking formations and fitted platforms facilitating access to deeper areas.
Eventually, you’ll boat through the darkness, gazing up at thousands of glowworms illuminating the cave’s ceiling. Maintaining silence and refraining from photography elevates the experience, allowing you to appreciate the magic of the moment.
Returning, you can spot additional glowworms not visible during the outbound journey. This is an extraordinary experience, and you can make reservations through Real NZ on their website or at their Te Anau desk.
Fiordland National Park Cruise
Fiordland National Park should not be missed, and cruising through its waters offers the best perspective. The park consists of numerous sounds, accessible primarily by boat. While hikers may navigate portions of the park, a full-day cruise through Doubtful Sound is ideal for capturing the essence of this natural wonder.
Experiencing Doubtful Sound feels akin to stepping into a fantasy tale, where the lush greenery evokes thoughts of mythical creatures. Rainfall is frequent, so don’t expect entirely clear views; however, summer offers the best chance for such weather, despite the region’s notoriety for rainy days, accompanied by spectacular temporary waterfalls.
Real NZ provides this cruise as well. The journey commences with a boat ride from Manapouri—an approximately 15-minute trip from Te Anau—across Lake Manapouri to Wilmot Pass. Afterward, passengers transition to buses for a portion of the journey to Doubtful Sound, with several scenic viewing stops along the way. The cruise itself lasts around three to three and a half hours, featuring a bar offering various beverages and snacks, with multiple decks promoting optimal viewing.
Queenstown
Queenstown is a bustling tourist hub and understandably so. Its stunning surroundings attract adventurers and leisure travelers alike.
Positioned beautifully, Queenstown features a variety of exceptional restaurants and bars, though prices here are notably higher. Additionally, the region is known for its wine country, providing opportunities for bike or bus tours centered around wine tasting, depending on your travel style.
Mount Cook National Park
Your ultimate stop on this road trip is Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park. The park features stunningly scenic drives with abundant spots for hiking, camping, and accommodations available in a small village at the base of Mount Aoraki. The museum located here pays tribute to Sir Edmund Hillary, the first person to summit Mount Everest alongside Tibetan mountaineer Tenzing Norgay, who began his climbing journey in New Zealand.
The Tasman Lake trail offers an easy route for scenic vista enjoyment. Prepare for possible crowds, as the parking area tends to fill quickly. This stop is ideal for those seeking a gentle yet rewarding experience.
The Sealy Tarns trail offers a more challenging hike, spanning approximately 3.3 miles out and back with over 2,200 steps leading up to a glacier lookout and views of Aoraki. Remember to carry water and snacks while pacing yourself; it’s a strenuous ascent that can leave legs feeling unsteady on the return journey.
Final Thoughts
The South Island captured my heart. New Zealand is a mesmerizing destination, filled with distinct areas worth experiencing. While the island may not showcase all the filming locations of “The Lord of the Rings,” it undeniably offers remarkable wildlife viewing, exceptional hiking, and unforgettable vistas unique to this region.
For those seeking more distinctive islands to explore, I encourage you to consider the island of Flores in the Azores.
