Looking for the most beautiful places on New Zealand south island? You found it! I will also be recommending some fun and interesting things to do in each of these locations. And guys, these places I am mentioning are not only very Instagrammable but also naturally stunning! So, I suggest including them in your new Zealand south island itinerary.
Now without further ado, let’s begin,
14 Must-See Most Beautiful Places In New Zealand South Island
1. Lake Tekapo
Lake Tekapo is a small town located at the southern end of the lake of the same name in the inland South Island of New Zealand. There is also a Church of Shepard at the lake. The church keeper said back in the day people came over here to build the dam (which is behind the lake) and later on decided to live here because of its beautiful landscape. No wonder it is one of the most beautiful places on south island New Zealand.
If you want to do hitchhiking or/and carpooling, NZ is one of the safest countries to experience it as well. But In case something goes wrong, before you get in the car I suggest you take the photo of the car plate and send it to your family/friends and do your FB/google investigation beforehand. Just in case!
If you are not time-poor and a fan of beautiful Lakes, also recommend checking out Lake Wakatipu and Lake Pukaki. Both lakes are quite similar as far as their turquoise-blue waters and surrounding scenery go but they’re also different in their own ways.
Interesting things to do at Lake Tekapo are:
Lake Tekapo: Single Day Pass for Hot Pools
2-Hour Stargazing Tour at Mt John Observatory in Lake Tekapo
Lake Tekapo: Glaciers, Mountains, and Landscapes Scenic Tour
Hot Tubs Omarama: Admission Ticket for 1.5-Hour Session
Tekapo: Immersive Indoor Stargazing and Astronomy Experience
2. Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park
Mount Cook had been on my must-see list of places for a long time. It worked out great because it was only an hour’s drive from Lake Tekapo. On the way there, my rideshare and road trip was all about sharing stories and listening to A LOT of music. I can definitely say I know most songs by Ed Sheeran now!
Aoraki / Mount Cook national park is New Zealand’s highest peak and possibly the most Instagrammed part of the country. You can also experience the beauty of Mt cook on foot wandering the easy Hooker Valley Track, enjoying a birds-eye view, or taking to the surrounding turquoise waters by boat or stargazing at night. I would say Mt Cook is a must-do if you are on South Island New Zealand travel. Also, hooker valley around the area may be worth a visit.
Fun things to do in Mount Cook are:
50-Minute Mount Cook and Beyond Scenic Flight
Mount Cook Full-Day Tour: (From Queenstown to Christchurch)
From Queenstown: Mount Cook Small Group Adventure
3. Queenstown aka adventure capital of the world
Today I was ready to head towards Queenstown also known as the adventure capital of the world. This stunning lakeside resort reminded me of Banff in Canada which is equally beautiful and serene. In Queenstown, you can find all kinds of thrills for adrenalin seekers. From the iconic bungy jumping and jet boating to quad biking, white water rafting, river surfing, skydiving, and canyon swings. There is something for everyone!
I always thought I would love to experience Bungy Jump in New Zealand because of its beautiful landscape. I had it even on my bucket list. Luckily the day I went, it was Aj Hackett’s Birthday anniversary! So Bungy Jump was half-priced at $100! I was nervous but took the discount as a green light to do it! It is fair to say it is one of the fun things to do on south island New Zealand.
Queenstown is one of the best places in New Zealand. Though a bit touristic, there are places you can find all to yourself!
Recommendations for Queenstown
43-Meter Kawarau Bridge Bungy Jump I did
The world’s third-highest Bungy Jump
What about the Bungy Jump from Skyline Queenstown?
12,000-Foot Tandem Skydive Above Southern Lakes
Queenstown Skyline Gondola and Luge Rides
Wild Horse Riding Through Dart Valley
Queenstown Cruise & Walter Peak Gourmet BBQ
Skyline Gondola ticket for that amazing viewpoint
4. Fiordland National Park
Another new Zealand south island attractions include Fiordland National Park. Travelers will never get tired of the breathtaking scenery – new vistas around every corner – and the natural beauty of this glacially scarred landscape. I had been told it was one of the world’s best landscapes and it certainly lived up to it.
On the way, there were plentiful postcard-perfect snow-capped mountains, jaw-dropping beautiful valleys, cascading waterfalls flowing down from massive heights over sheer rock-faced mountains, dense forest, and stunning lakes and rivers. No doubt this national park is one of the best places in New Zealand.
Of course, Milford Sound is the ultimate destination but there are plenty of other sights to see including the Mirror Lakes, the Chasm, and many waterfalls. Watch for the inquisitive Kiwi birds as well. Tours will start at 5 am on the same day return from Queen towns or a self-organized drive around with a group of people is cheaper and flexible.
Best way to experience Fiordland National Park?
Milford Sound Coach Tour & Lunch Cruise from Queenstown
Milford Sound: Boutique Small-Boat Cruise
Fiordland National Park: Doubtful Sound Wilderness Cruise
Discovering the fiord on an intimate small boat cruise.
Milford Sound Scenic Helicopter Flight with Glacier Landing
5. Stewart Island/ Rakiura National Park
Not many people know or skip Stewart Island but I reckon it is worth a visit. Stewart Island/Rakiura is the third-largest island of New Zealand. It lies 30 km south of the South Island which makes it the most southern of the three main populated New Zealand islands.
Despite being as close to Antarctica as you can get, its clear turquoise sea and white sand beaches make Stewart Island look more like a tropical paradise. You can have some pretty unique experiences on the island. For example: spotting some penguins on Oban Wharf on evenings, a kiwi bird in the wild, walk to a wide selection of white-sand bays such as Dead Man Bay and Horseshoe Bay, Great White shark cage diving (only available in summer) or seeing the Southern Lights- unforgettable south island scenery.
The main (and only) town of Oban offers all the essentials like backpacker accommodation and a convenience store (which isn’t horrifically expensive). The most common and cheapest way to get here is by ferry from Bluff. The journey takes approximately one hour. It departs from both Stewart Island and Bluff three times a day.
Keep in mind, that departure times change depending on the season. You could also rent a scooter, mountain bike or car to see as much of the island as possible during short visits or take a quick boat ride over to Ulva Island.
How to see the best of the Stewart Islands?
Stewart Island: Village and Bays Tour
2.5-Hour Cruise and Ulva Island Guided Walk
Ferry Service Between Bluff & Stewart Island
6. Mount Aspiring National Park
Do you like epic walking and hiking tracks or a beautiful lake with (that Wanaka) tree? You can find it all at Mount Aspiring National Park. It is the highest outside of the Aoraki Mt Cook region. Now we know why the mountain is “aspiring” to be the highest mountain!
There are many experiences to be had here like seeing the glacier features like Rob Roy Glacier and the Blue Pools, winding jetboat ride into the National Park, canyoning in the Routeburn valley, or taking a scenic flight to see Mt Aspiring from above or skydiving.
I cannot decide which is my favorite National Park in New Zealand, but it might be this one. Mount Aspiring is situated at the southern end of the alps. The snow-capped mountains change in appearance with changes in the light and the sunshine. You could spend your day just watching the changing vista and not be bored.
If you don’t want to hike I recommend the drive and you can still see the glacier from the parking lot. Mount Aspiring is just so wild and there is so much to explore! You could spend a lifetime and so much would remain untouched. Rugged beauty to the max making it one of the most beautiful places in New Zealand.
Recommendation for Mount Aspiring NP
Wanaka: Jet Boat & Wilderness Walk
Mt Aspiring Full-Day Canyoning Adventure from Queenstown
The Devil’s Punchbowl Trail is so beautiful and has a great sight, but there are about 300 steps up and down! You are surrounded by beautiful native flora & stunning views over Arthurs Pass. Well worth doing. However, keep in mind it’s not a loop track, you have to return to the same route. It also connects to other tracks. The views are awesome and definitely Instagram-worthy.
7. Arthur’s Pass National Park
What better way to start the trip than going through the scenic Arthur’s Pass National Park via Castle Hill. It was established in 1929, becoming the first national park in the South Island and the third in New Zealand. In Arthur’s Pass, there are several different walking trails to choose, some are longer and some are shorter. You can get information and maps from Arthur’s pass visitor Centre before you go.
Suggestions for Arthur’s Pass
Arthur’s Pass with TranzAlpine Train
From Christchurch: Day Trip to Arthur’s Pass
8. Punakaiki Pancake Rocks
This would be an easy stop on the side of the road and worth it. Easy track walk, very short and good to see the sights and things. The large part is wheelchair friendly as well. The track has a number of lookout points showcasing all the features.
The only slight disappointment was blowholes not blowing due to calm seas. If you are passing by Punakaiki, Paparoa National Park, it is a good idea to stop and see the Pancake Rocks and Blowholes. There is a toilet across the street and 30 minutes of free wifi!
Best way to see Pancake Rocks?
From Greymouth: Punakaiki Blowholes & Pancake Rocks Tour
Full-Day Tour: View the incredible Pancake Rocks and Blow Holes formations
9. Omarama Clay Cliffs
This hidden gem is definitely worthy of the 15-minute gravel drive although there is $5 per car for entry and is located 10km from the main road. Once you are at the carpark, it’s a short walk heads up to the cliffs. Sharp jagged clay veins with a pale, peachy palette. Make sure you take hiking boots, the terrain is very loose and rocky in places. Truly one of a kind and definitely had to include in this most beautiful places in New Zealand south island post.
10. Marlborough Sounds
Marlborough Sounds are one of the stunning places to visit in New Zealand south island. It is the nature-lover’s paradise! You can enjoy many activities here. Such as Sailing, hiking, dolphin watching, fishing, camping, or just relaxing. There is something for everyone!
It is hard to describe the peace, beauty, and tranquillity of the Marlborough Sounds. Whether you are in a small boat, cruising at your own pace and whim, or on an Interislander or Bluebridge ferry, you cannot fail to be amazed and enthralled at the variety of constantly-changing scenery which surrounds you on all sides, and the limitless possibility of visits which can be made from your boat, time permitting.
Don’t forget the beautiful Queen Charlotte walkway that runs along its length. As the Interislander ferry comes into the sounds the views are amazing. The sounds offer such a striking landscape that is so picturesque. It really is serene and easy to see why it is one of the new Zealand south islands must-sees.
There are many accommodation and boating options to make sure you can get the most out of your visit. It is so beautiful, everywhere you look captivates the senses and provides you with a true appreciation of nature.
Recommendations for Marlborough Sounds
Marlborough Sounds and Ship Cove Cruise from Picton
Picton Dolphin Watching & Island Wildlife Sanctuary Cruise
Marlborough Sounds: Full-Day Guided Kayak Tour with Lunch
11. Roys Peak
May is one of the best months of the year to go hiking in Wanaka – the Goldilocks Zone, not too hot and not too cold.
The temperatures are moderate compared to summer. The wind is almost still (almost completely windless) and you just have a nice gentle cool breeze. New Zealand is famous for windy weather and NZ mountains are notorious for their ferocious winds. The affluent jet set like to take their holidays in Wanaka in May.
If you are a blogger/Instagrammer/photographer, the most colorful time of year, Autumn (fall) runs between March and May. Autumn is magical in places like Queenstown, Wanaka, and Arrowtown – with trees in various hues of gold, orange, and red, and beautiful blue-sky days. While Autumn is known for being a little cooler, locals also know it often means very settled weather.
One of the most photographed iconic mountain walks in New Zealand is Roy’s Peak. The mountain is steep, ascending 1200 meters over eight kilometers, with unbroken views over Lake Wanaka from the slopes, and summit views to Tititea/Mt Aspiring. Only 10 minutes by vehicle from Wanaka on a sealed road, this makes it relatively easy to get to.
The track zigzags up the side of Mount Roy. It is a 6-hour return walk or 16 km in distance.
Autumn is probably the best time to do the Roys Peak Track. The temperatures are not as extreme, and the crowds have thinned out. The car park was barely 20 percent full.
12. Hokitika Gorge
It is a recently updated walk which is now a loop. Beautiful spot to visit and walk around. Even on a cloudy day, the water is so blue! Plenty of spaces to park. Recommend walking from the end of the track to the front to leave you with the main views and bridges at the end of your walk! The highlight of the walks is different suspension bridges and the water. You can actually take a dip in the gorge but just be careful as the currents are strong.
13. Twelve Mile Delta To Bob’s Cove
Twelve Mile Delta was a location for Lord of the Rings’ Ithilien Camp. It is popular with locals and is huge with many spots for tents and campervans alike and conveniently close to Queenstown. You can even swim but the water is cold! No sinks or treated water but there are taps with boil-only water. Good spot for stunning views, gold panning, and excellent fishing in the mornings.
14. Christchurch
After my North Island trip, it was time to solo travel again. However, before starting my South Island trip, I wanted a couple days to relax and rest in Christchurch. Though still recovering from the earthquake of 2011, Christchurch city was full of arts and optimism. I was impressed with the city art and soaked the creative vibe as I grabbed my Flat while and walked around.
It also gave me some time to plan my south island trip. You can fly from Christchurch to Queenstown but I decided to do a road trip. And for the accommodation, I did Airbnb.
Unique things to do in Christchurch
Christchurch Adventure Park Zipline Experience
Christchurch Hop-On Hop-Off Tour by Vintage Tram
Ko Tāne Maori Experience + Optional Hangi Dinner & Kiwi Tour
Christchurch Tramway Restaurant 4 Course Dinner Tour
Willowbank Wildlife Reserve Day Entry Ticket
From Christchurch: Full-Day Lord of the Rings Tour to Edoras
Mt Cook, Tasman Glacier & Alpine Centre Day Trip
Christchurch International Antarctic Center Entry Tickets
Note: I didn’t have enough time but the following places also come highly recommended. Franz Josef glacier fox glacier and Tasman national park. If you didn’t know New Zealand also has three Unesco World Heritage sites. Such as Te Wahipounamu, Tongariro National Park, and the Subantarctic Islands.
Let me know in the comments
If you know any other most beautiful places in New Zealand south island
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New Zealand looks gorgeous.
What stunning photos! Definitely a bucket list trip.
All the travel spots of New Zealand about which you have talked about is really amazing.. The pictures you have posted are giving prove about the picturesque beauty of those areas. ? Thanks for sharing.. People who are looking for spending their vacation in that Kiwi land is going to find this article much handy.
New Zealand is on our bucket list. Hope to visit and checkout these views in person some day soon.
I would love to get to New Zealand and explore its South Island. The scenery is so amazing and I love it that there are not many tourists around.
OMW what a beautiful unspoilt country. I would do my nut to do that bungee jump at Kawarau. I’ve done the Bloukrans Bridge in South Africa and it was awesome
this place looks like a dream! Loving all the purples! Im so envious of you right now!
I have always wanted to travel to New Zealand. I think your pictures are amazing and they really capture your experience. Christchurch looks/sounds like my cup of tea. Thanks for sharing.
New Zealand is such a heaven on this earth and a picture perfect place. Really enjoying your photos.
Bookmarked for a furture trip! Always wanted to go.
I would love to see the waterfall at Queenstown, but I’m not brave enough to bungee jump! You are one brave soul!
this looks as if taken from a movie! Definitely, a place to see but it is too far and expensive from Spain…
xx
lau
These pictures are stunning, it looks like a paradise. NZ is definitely on my bucket list
oh man New Zeland looks like one of the most beautiful places! Definitely has been on my bucket list for soooo long! Your photos are just exquisite! And that bungee jumping video, how awesome!!
I travelled the South Island back in the mid 1990’s. I can see that everything and nothing has changed.
I still fondly remember my adventures and the stunning vistas are forever painted in my memories.
You have captured it beautifully both with your words and images.
I look forward to returning to New Zealand one day with the Four Friends and I will be sure to have your top 10 list with us.
Keep travelling and posting, there is a big world full of adventure waiting for you.
These photos are stunning! I would love to visit to each place one day! 🙂
New Zealand Is really the perfect place to be. All my life I’ve been wanting to visit NZ. The views are stunning and you capture all your moments perfectly.
Our honeymoon was on the South Island and we visited many of these places!Such a beautiful island!
Looks like a wonderful trip. I would only skip the bungee jump 🙂
Wow, looks beyond amazing. I would love to be able to visit a place like this, some day. Until then, keep those photos coming!!
Another bucket list destination for me and my husband! I’m not sure which spot to visit first though.
Stewart island looks so beautiful and surreal..all the pictures are so gorgeous and are forcing me to plan my next travel soon!
You have shared really amazing pictures in this post. I will love to visit this place the coming month.
Queenstown’s falls is majestic! Good photography!
I would love to visit New Zealand someday and explore all of these beautiful places! They have so many areas that are untouched by civilization, which I absolutely love!
All of those places look absolutely stunning and would love to explore them sometime soon
The views is just amazing! I would like to see that waterfall in person!
I’ve always wanted to visit New Zealand but now even more so after seeing your amazing post, how gorgeous is each location and your pictures?! I don’t think there’s a single location I’d pass up here!
Okay, I knew New Zealand was a beautiful place, but I had no idea it was THIS gorgeous! WOW! And I LOVE your photographs – you totally capture the spirit of the countryside!
I’d love to visit New Zealand. It looks like such a naturally beautiful country.
It is one of my dreams to go to New Zealand. These photos look so gorgeous, makes me want to go even more.
this is so beautiful! I have always wanted to go to New Zealnad!
New Zealand is so beautiful, It is on my travel wish list, I didn’t know few of the places you mentioned here, they look and sound amazing. Lake Tepako is breathtakingly beautiful, with the view of mountains and water. Love all the pictures.
wow I always wondered what there was to do in new Zealand ever since I met a graduate student from new Zealand while I was an undergraduate at yale university. these places looks so beautiful, but I could never go bungee jumping lol it is way to scary for me.
I’ve wanted to go to NZ to visit Hobbiton, but I definitely need to add some of these places. They’re stunning!
Omg, all these places are simply fabulous! Norway is definitely on my must-see travel list!
(Your second picture in this post is amazing!)
Was about to write New Zealand, but was thinking of Norway, haha! Sorry!
Both on my travel list! I guess they have something in common, don’t they?
New Zealand looks lovely and your pictures are totally incredible and really have inspired me. I need to book some travel for next year x
I explored some parts of New Zealand and immensely enjoyed. Now explored other parts of this beautiful country through your post. Awesome pics.
I’d really love to visit New Zealand because of its beautiful and peaceful scenery of this place. I will definitely save this for my future references in case we travel here in New Zealand.
Wow, these are all beautiful pictures. I have New Zealand on my travel list, I hopefully will visit one or two of these beautiful places.
Each place in the list looks amazing. Never heard about few of them before. Want to visit New Zealand one day.
Beautiful places! I want to travel to New Zeland badly! And after your post even more. I wish flight was less expensive
These are some great place to visit this 2018. The beautiful scenery, views are so fulfilling and worth to visit. I will definitely add this on my bucket list.
Love New Zealand! I would love to travel there for holiday someday
Those photos are stunning! The scenery is so beautiful. I would love to visit here.
Like so many, New Zealand is on our list to visit. I just want to start booking now after reading your article and viewing your beautiful photos!
Everything looks so beautiful! New Zealand is on my list of places to visit before I die, and now you’ve inspired me to work harder and visit the place already!
I lived in NZ for 8 months and I did everything on this list! So you were spot on with this post! I love NZ so much I’m glad you enjoyed it too
Thanks for sharing this content, this content is valueable for me. Keep it up .