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TOP 10 PLACES ON THE SOUTH ISLAND OF NEW ZEALAND

13/04/2025

1. MILFORD SOUND

Milford Sound is one of the most iconic and breathtaking places in New Zealand. Located in Fiordland National Park in the southwest of the South Island, it is often referred to as the eighth wonder of the world. It is a fjord formed by a glacier during the Ice Age. Although it is called "Sound", meaning a river valley flooded by the sea, it is technically a fjord (glacial origin). It is surrounded by steep rock walls that rise up to 1 200 metres above the surface.

FJORD CRUISE

This is the most popular activity in Milford Sound. Boats sail along the fjord to the sea and back, with views of waterfalls, mountains and often seals, dolphins or penguins. I can recommend RealNZ from personal experience, but you can choose from several other companies that provide cruises along the fjord. Prices are around 150 NZD.

KAYAKING 

For the more adventurous souls there is the option of kayaking. Only one company offers this activity, Rosco's Milford Kayaks. Prices start at 199 NZD and you can book on the website https://www.roscosmilfordkayaks.com/

SCENIC FLIGHT

The following companies offer breathtaking views from a plane or helicopter.

2. MILFORD TRACK

The Milford Track is undoubtedly the most popular hiking trail in New Zealand, not only among tourists but also among locals. It is a one-way trail leading from Lake Te Anau to Milford Sound. It is over 53 km long and officially lasts 4 days / 3 nights.

The main season is from October to April (spring to autumn). The mountain huts (DOC huts) are open at this time and reservations are required in advance (often months in advance). The hike is also possible in low season but is very challenging - risk of snow, avalanches and closed sections.

For more information, please visit the website https://www.doc.govt.nz/parks-and-recreation/places-to-go/fiordland/places/fiordland-national-park/things-to-do/tracks/milford-track

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ACCOMMODATION ON THE TRAIL

The huts on the Milford Track are basic: bunk beds with mattresses, water, toilets, kitchen without equipment (only gas cookers). It is necessary to have your own sleeping bag, food and all equipment.

  1. Clinton Hut (after about 5 km, day 1) - https://www.doc.govt.nz/parks-and-recreation/places-to-go/fiordland/places/fiordland-national-park/things-to-do/huts/clinton-hut/
  2. Mintaro Hut (after about 16 km, day 2) - https://www.doc.govt.nz/parks-and-recreation/places-to-go/fiordland/places/fiordland-national-park/things-to-do/huts/mintaro-hut/
  3. Dumpling Hut (after about 14 km, day 3) - https://www.doc.govt.nz/parks-and-recreation/places-to-go/fiordland/places/fiordland-national-park/things-to-do/huts/dumpling-hut/
  4. Final stretch to Sandfly Point (18 km, day 4)

3. LAKE MARIAN TRACK

The Lake Marian Track is a beautiful gem hidden in Fiordland National Park, near Milford Sound.

This is a day hike that will reward you with an alpine lake with incredible views of the surrounding mountains. The lake lies at an altitude of about 700m, at the end of a glacial valley surrounded by steep mountain peaks. The 6 km (round trip) route starts at the Marian Swing Bridge, where there is a spacious free car park.

4. NATIONAL PARK AORAKI / MOUNT COOK

Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park is one of the most breathtaking places in New Zealand. It's where the highest mountains, glaciers, turquoise lakes and dark night skies meet, perfect for nature lovers, photographers and hikers alike.

The main peak is Aoraki / Mount Cook (3,724 m), the highest mountain in New Zealand. It is a sacred place for the Maori and its Maori name "Aoraki" means "punching cloud".

In Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park you will find one of the darkest night skies in the world.

Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park is home to one of the darkest night skies in the world. The National Park is located in the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve (one of the darkest night skies in the world), making it ideal for stargazing, the Milky Way, and even the Southern Lights (Aurora Australis). In Mount Cook Village you will find the Sir Edmund Hillary Observatory and Planetarium.

Sir Edmund Hillary, the first man to climb the world's highest mountain, Mount Everest, and for whom the local observatory is named, began his mountaineering expeditions here, in the Aoraki area.

HOOKER VALLEY TRACK 

  • Description: The most popular trek in Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park
  • Length: 10 km (round trip)
  • Difficulty: Easy

TASMAN GLACIER TRACK

  • Description: A short trail to the Tasman Glacier, New Zealand's main glacier
  • Length: 3 km (round trip)
  • Difficulty: Moderate

MUELLER HUT TRACK 

  • Description: Advanced hike with the possibility of staying overnight in a high mountain hut
  • Length: 11 km (round trip)
  • Difficulty: Challenging

5. ABEL TASMAN NATIONAL PARK

Abel Tasman National Park is the smallest national park in New Zealand, but it is definitely one of the most beautiful and welcoming. Imagine golden beaches, azure seas, hidden coves, coastal forests and the chance to spot seals and dolphins, all in the sunniest region of New Zealand.

The national park is located in the north of the South Island near the town of Motueka. It was established in 1942, on the 300th anniversary of the landing of the seafarer Abel Tasman.

ABEL TASMAN COAST TRACK

Coastal hike along the sea with a total length of 60 km (from Marahau to Wainui Bay / Totaranui). It usually takes 3-5 days, but you can combine it with kayaking or boating.

6. WHARARIKI BEACH

Wharariki Beach is one of the most photogenic and wildest beaches in New Zealand - yet it remains a relatively "hidden gem". It lies in the very north-west of the South Island, just off Cape Farewell - the island's northernmost point.

Wharariki Beach is a vast, windswept beach with iconic rock arches and sandstone formations (Archway Islands). You'll often see few people there, but plenty of sea lions! There are also some spectacular sunsets, perfect for more than just photographers.

The beach can be reached in 20 minutes from the main car park. The road leads through grassland and low dunes, but is well signposted.

7. CHRISTCHURCH

Christchurch is the largest city on New Zealand's South Island and the gateway to adventure in the entire Canterbury region - whether you're heading south to the lakes or the mountains, you're likely to pass through. But it's definitely worth a stop here to soak up its unique atmosphere.

Located on the east coast of the South Island, in the Canterbury region, the city is nicknamed the Garden City - thanks to its many parks and green spaces. The city is still rebuilding after the devastating earthquakes of 2010-2011, giving it a modern and creative feel.

BOTANIC GARDENS AND HAGLEY PARK

A huge park complex in the city centre, ideal for a stroll or a picnic. You'll find greenhouses with tropical plants, a rose garden and you'll also see swans on the River Avon. For more information, visit the website https://www.ccc.govt.nz/parks-and-gardens/christchurch-botanic-gardens

THE MUSEUM OF ART

The museum offers exhibitions on Maori culture, geology and the town's history. Admission is free. For more information, visit the website https://christchurchartgallery.org.nz/

RIVERSIDE MARKET

Great place to eat and shop - street food, local produce, coffee, beer.

8. QUEENSTOWN 

Queenstown is without a doubt the adrenaline and tourist capital of New Zealand - but it's not just about bungee jumping and skydiving. It also offers stunning scenery, a postcard-perfect lake, fantastic food and a starting point for plenty of tours around the area. It's a kind of New Zealand 'Swiss city in the mountains' with a stylish twist.

Queenstown is home to the world's first commercial bungee.

The town lies on the shores of Lake Wakatipu, surrounded by the mountains of The Remarkables. It is also a popular starting point for trips to Fiordland, Glenorchy, Arrowtown or Wanaka.

BUNGEE JUMPING

Queenstown is home to the world's first commercial bungee: Kawarau Bridge Bungy (43 m). Others are the Nevis Bungy (134 m) or the Canyon Swing.

BOB´S PEAK

A cable car above town leads to Bob's Peak with views of the lake, mountains and sunsets. From here you can ride down the mountain sledding run or try paragliding. For more information, including other activities, visit the website at https://www.queenstownnz.co.nz/things-to-do/adventure-activities/bungy-swing-and-zip/

SKYDIVING

Skydiving is one of the popular activities in Queenstown. If you want to experience a 200 km/h free fall for 60 seconds, this activity is for you. For more information, visit the website https://www.nzoneskydive.co.nz/

9. EDORAS / MOUNT SUNDAY

Edoras, the capital of Rohan from the Lord of the Rings trilogy, actually exists - and it's called Mount Sunday. It's a lonely hill in a valley with breathtaking views of the surrounding New Zealand Alps. Although nothing of the original scenery remains, the place retains its magic and atmosphere.

The drive to the top takes about 30 minutes from the main car park. The place is very windy and the weather is changeable.

MOUNT POTTS EASEMENT TRACK 

The Mount Potts Easement Track is a lesser known but very interesting hike in close proximity to the famous summit of Mount Sunday (Edoras). If you enjoy deserted mountain trails with views of the alpine plains, this is the hike for you.

  • Length: 8-10 km (round trip)
  • Duration: 3-5 hours (depending on the pace and extent of the hike)
  • Altitude: approximately 400-600 m

10. TE ANAU

Te Anau is the gateway to Fiordland - a breathtaking part of New Zealand's South Island, famous for its fjords, mountains, waterfalls and rainforests. Whether you want to explore Milford Sound, walk the Kepler Track or just enjoy the tranquil lake, Te Anau is the perfect base.

GLOW WORM CAVES

Cruise on Lake Te Anau followed by a tour of the caves with glow worms. To make a reservation, visit the website https://www.realnz.com/en/experiences/glowworm-caves/te-anau-glowworm-caves/

KEPLER TRACK

Another of New Zealand's favourite treks. This 60km circuit offers breathtaking views of the lake, mountain ranges, forests and valleys. You can do the whole thing (3-4 days) or just part of it - a popular hike is to Luxmore Hut and back (1 day).

For a shorter route you can use Kepler Water Taxi. A one-way ticket starts at 60 NZD. To book, visit the website https://www.fiordlandoutdoors.co.nz/

TOP 10 PLACES ON THE NORTH ISLAND OF NEW ZEALAND
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