TOP OF THE SOUTH
Located at the Top of the South Island there is the pretty seaside town of Picton which is also the gateway to the greater Marlborough Sounds. A short drive from Picton, leads to Blenheim one of the sunniest towns in New Zealand, situated in the heart of wine-growing Marlborough region.
From Blenheim, it is a two hour drive to Nelson, renowned for golden beaches, quality seafood and wine, and a significant artistic community. The Abel Tasman National Park is a popular destination for fans of the great outdoors. On the East Coast of the South Island, between Picton and Christchurch is Kaikoura, famous for it’s year round whale watching tours.
The following activities are highly recommended.
 |  |
| Whale Watching Kaikoura | Wine Tasting – Blenheim |
| Giant Sperm Whales are the stars of the show and year-round residents. A typical Whale Watch tour may encounter New Zealand Fur Seals, pods of Dusky dolphins and the endangered Wandering Albatross. Depending on the season you may also see other species migrating. Orcas and Hector's dolphins are also common sightings. | A typical day tour would involve visiting a selection of wineries ranging from the established Wither Hills winery to the smaller family owned wineries of Bladen or Gibson Bridge. Take time to enjoy lunch at one of the winery restaurants where you can relax and soak up the atmosphere of the Marlborough Vineyards. |
MOUNT COOK REGION
Mount Cook / Aorangi is New Zealand’s highest peak and the location where Sir Edmund Hilary trained before conquering Mt Everest. Tekapo has become internationally famous for viewing the night sky. In June 2012 the region, Aoraki Mackenzie was named the World’s Largest International Dark Sky Reserve.
The following activities are highly recommended.
 |  |  |
| Sir Edmund Hilary Alpine Centre | Earth and Sky Mt John Observatory | Glacier Explorers |
| A tribute to Sir Edmund Hillary, humanitarian, ambassador and one of the world's greatest explorers. A museum showcases the history of the region through transport, climbing and Sir Ed himself. Be inspired by Mt Cook Magic 3D, or experience the night sky in the world's only theatre that combines 2D/3D and a world-class digital dome Planetarium. | Visit Earth & Sky for a safe and unique Stargazing and Observatory experience at Lake Tekapo, the heart of the Aoraki-Mackenzie International Dark Sky reserve, the largest of the eight reserves in the World. With professional astronomy guides and equipment view and learn about the wonders of our universe. | Glacier explorers is the only tour of its kind in New Zealand. Very few glaciers terminate into lakes and even fewer of these are accessible to the average person. By using a boat get close to towering ice cliffs and huge floating icebergs. Being able to view, and touch 500 year old ice is a new experience for most. |
CHRISTCHURCH & CANTERBURY
Christchurch is New Zealand’s second largest city and the gateway to the South Island. Bordered by hills and the Pacific Ocean, it is situated on the edge of the Canterbury Plains that stretch to the majestic Southern Alps.
The following activities are highly recommended.
 |  |  |  |
| Punting On The Avon | Christchurch Gondola | TranzAlpine | Willowbank and Ko Tane |
| Punting is a unique Christchurch experience transporting you back to an elegant English era when the pace of life was more peaceful and dignified. It is the most relaxing way to absorb the sights and charms of Christchurch while drifting downstream in and out of the dappled shadows of the willow trees. | Situated on the Port Hills of Christchurch City, the Summit Station of the Gondola provides spectacular panoramic views from its elevation. Perfect for those wanting an outdoors experience with amazing photographic opportunities. | From Christchurch, cross the patchwork farmland of the Canterbury plains, follow the Waimakariri river, climbing into alpine scenery on a series of spectacular viaducts. Then, after stopping at Arthur's Pass, emerge from the long Otira Tunnel and descend through sub tropical rain forest past beautiful Lake Brunner and on to Greymouth. | Willowbank Wildlife reserve is one of the top New Zealand visitor attractions where you will experience New Zealand wildlife first hand. Your trip to New Zealand would not be complete without seeing the New Zealand kiwi bird - at Willowbank, kiwis are housed in an open and natural enclosure allowing you incredible viewing. Also the location of Ko Tane and Maori Cultural Show. |
WEST COAST
On the West Coast of the South Island are the small towns of Franz Josef and Fox Glacier. Both framed by the dramatic backdrop of the Southern Alps. A highlight of any visit to the West Coast is the time spent admiring the Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers. Further north along the west coast will include the townships of Hokitika, Greymouth and Punakaiki. The famous Pancake Rocks and Blowholes are just a 20 minute lops walk from where you park your vehicle on the main highway at Punakaiki. Looking like giant pancakes the curious limestone formations are especially spectacular at high tide in a westerly sea.
The following activities are highly recommended.
 |  |  |
| FRANZ JOSEF GLACIER GUIDES | GLACIER HOT POOLS | THE HELICOPTER LINE |
| Unique experiences amongst one of the most spectacular and challenging glacier environments in the world. Franz Josef Glacier is the focal point for the Westland National Park and the South West New Zealand World Heritage Area. It is an unusually steep and heavily crevassed glacier and is the world's steepest and fastest flowing commercially guided glacier. | Nestled in lush rainforest, the Glacier Hot Pools is a haven of natural tranquility and the perfect way for visitors to unwind and experience a blissful state of pure relaxation The pools are conveniently located in the heart of Franz Josef township and can be enjoyed all year round. | Your tour combines an awesome scenic helicopter flight (approx 10 mins) over the glacier with a unique guided walk (approx 2 hrs) amongst the ice caves, pinnacles and seracs of this pristine, alpine environment. You'll see the extraordinary colours of the ice-flow from above and then up close, on an unforgettable guided walk. A range of scenic Helicopter flights are available from Franz Josef you will be spoilt for choice. |
TE ANAU, DOUBTFUL & MILFORD SOUNDS
The serene deep waters of Lake Te Anau make up the largest lake in the South Island and the second largest in NZ. The attractive town of Te Anau lies nestled on the edge of this beautiful lake, surrounded by spectacular backdrops. Te Anau provides access to Milford Sound, Doubtful Sound and the outstanding Te Anau Glow worm caves.
The following activities are highly recommended.
 |  |  |
| REAL JOURNEYS | REAL JOURNEYS | REAL JOURNEYS |
| Milford Sound Cruise | Doubtful Sound Cruise | Te Anau Glow worm caves |
| Enjoy the Scenic Cruise on Milford Sound. Your vessel will stop at various points and offer excellent viewing of waterfalls, rain forest, mountains and wildlife. Your cruise is accompanied by comprehensive commentaries. Lunch options and complimentary tea and coffee are available on board all vessels. Overnight options are also available. | From Pearl Harbour cruise across Lake Manapouri to West Arm then travel by coach over the Wilmot Pass through dense rainforest. Once at Doubtful Sound board your catamaran for a 3 hour wilderness cruise of the Sound out to the Tasman Sea. Overnight options are also available | Cruise across Lake Te Anau to the western side of the lake. On arrival view the interesting displays at Cavern House before your guide accompanies you underground. Learn how the caves are still being carved out by the power of nature. Glide through silent darkness to the glow-worm grotto. The tiny glow- worms are a magical sight. |
QUEENSTOWN
Queenstown is New Zealand’s adventure playground, surrounded by mountains and nestled on the shores of crystal clear Lake Wakatipu. Queenstown’s stunning scenery is inspiring and revitalising.
The following activities are highly recommended.
 |  |  |  |
| SKYLINE GONDOLA | TSS EARNSLAW | SOUTHERN DISCOVERIES | DART RIVER JET BOAT SAFARIS |
| Just a 5 minute walk from central Queenstown, ride the Skyline Gondola to the top of the Skyline complex. The best views in the region are found here spread out in a spectacular 220 degree panorama, with breathtaking views of Coronet Peak, The Remarkables and across Lake Wakatipu. | Step aboard - watch the stokers fuelling the fireboxes and hear the hiss of the steam engines working as the TSS Earnslaw takes you on a nostalgic cruise of beautiful Lake Wakatipu. The TSS Earnslaw makes several daily trips to famous Walter Peak High Country Farm there is an evening option as well which includes a sumptuous buffet dinner. | Cruise around Queenstown's Lake Wakatipu to Mt. Nicholas High Country Station. The Spirit of Queenstown is luxurious, modern and environmentally friendly. enjoy stunning views of Mt. Earnslaw, Bob's Cove, Cecil Peak, Mt. Nicholas and the Remarkables. Take some time to join the Skipper in the open wheelhouse. An informative and entertaining commentary is provided. | Dart river Jet Safaris, takes you on a journey of rare and special beauty into the pristine wilderness of Mt Aspiring National Park, in the Southern Alps. Dart river experience has a magnificent backdrop. Snow capped mountains range over a glacial valley, blanketed by ancient forest, it's breathtaking. A journey that will touch your soul. |
 |  |  |  |
| NOMAD SAFARIS | ZIPTREK ENCOUNTERS | SHOTOVER JET | THE HELICOPTER LINE |
| Let Nomad Safaris take you on one of their tours to the NZ back-country. Their Safari of the Scenes tour will capture the heart of the most avid Lord of the rings fans. Nomad Safaris offers adventure trips to the old abandoned gold mining towns of Skippers Canyon and Macetown. Travel the rugged road and experience true off roading as you explore the pioneer trails. | Experience this fun and exciting must do zipline adventure in the forest canopy high above Queenstown. Glide from tree-house to tree-house on a series of ziplines, accompanied at all times by two guides who take care of everything technical so you can relax and enjoy the views. Operating all year round, Ziptrek offers an easily accessible fun adventure, for all ages. | Billed as "the world's most exciting ride" Shotover jet provides an adrenaline filled journey through the canyons this is a must do. From the moment the accelerator hits the floor, your adrenaline hits the roof as you speed in mere centimetres of water along the famous Shotover river and deep into the spectacular Shotover river Canyons. | Enjoy the stunning beauty of the Wakatipu basin from the mouth of the Shotover river to beyond Coronet Peak. See film locations from Lord of the rings. Land on The remarkables (1538 m) above Queenstown. In winter, stand in snow. A range of scenic Helicopter flights are available from Queenstown you will be spoilt for choice. |
WANAKA
Wanaka is the ideal holiday destination, sheltered behind the South Alps. There is something for everyone, whatever your age, ability or sense of adventure.
The following activities are highly recommended.
 |  |
| WANAKA PUZZLING WORLD | RIDGELINE ADVENTURES WANAKA |
| Puzzling World is a unique attraction offering “a world of weirdness”. Since 1973 this remarkable business has entertained and amazed visitors of all ages attracted to Wanaka. With the world’s first "3-D" Great Maze, incredible Illusion rooms a Puzzle Centre and much more Puzzling World is a must-see addition on any itinerary. | Treat yourself: Wanaka adventure tours and executive transport with experienced local guides at the wheel. Set beneath the stunning backdrop of the Southern Alps and on the shores of the lake that gives the resort its name, Wanaka is the perfect place for adventure, relaxation and rejuvenation |