In search of the ultimate adventure playground?
Whether you've got you're New Zealand bucket list carefully planned out or you're just looking to jump on the bus and let the good times roll, our ten best South Island activities will take your trip from brilliant to mind blowing.
Must Do’s
Franz Josef Ice Explorer
We'll take any opportunity we get to jump in a helicopter, let alone if it's above a glacier surrounded by snow capped mountains and native rainforest. The trip doesn't end there, land on Franz Josef Glacier and take a hike through snow bridges into an icy wonderland only accessible by air.
Jump off THE wharf, Lake Rotoiti
The famous Rotoiti Wharf, site of many a jumping-off-the-wharf shot and cold but exhilrated Kiwi Experience traveller. A classic Kiwi Experience stop since ages ago, we couldn't talk about South Island Must-Do's without mentioning this one!
Milford Explorer, Milford Sound
For jaw dropping views and a plethora of natural wonders packed into one day you can't go past Milford Sound. There's good reason why this stunning site ranks high on any New Zealand bucket-list, make sure you find out for yourself!
Thrill Seeker
AJ Hackett Queenstown Nevis Bungy
For the ultimate bungy jump there is no question that the AJ Hackett Nevis Bungy is where it's at. At 134m high and perched out way out over the Nevis Valley, just being out on the bungy platform will take your breath away. Once you've made the (massive) leap no other bungy will compare.
Shotover Jet Boat Ride, Queenstown
The “World’s Most Exciting Jet Boat Ride” is also the best way to truly get amongst the stunning Shotover River. The thrill of skimming over the shallow riverbeds and dodging rocky outcrops is matched only by the beauty of its canyons and translucent turquoise waters.
Rangitata Rafting
If you’re on the hunt for South Island’s best rapids, this is where you’ll find them. Be ready for some decent white water action, big drops and high speed rafting. The towering Southern Alps behind you make the journey even more epic.
Nature Lover
Bazil's Surf School, Westport
On the other end of the chill scale - surfing the ruggedly beautiful West Coast. A stunning and completely unique spot to learn to surf (or rip it up if you're already a pro) you'll be rewarded for dragging yourself out of bed early for this one.
Whale Watch Kaikoura
An experience like no other, it’s not often that you’ll find the magnificent Giant Sperm Whale this close to a coastline. A nature lover’s paradise, it's not only whales but pods of Dusky Dolphins and Fur Seals you're bound to come across as well.
Kahu Kayaks, Abel Tasman National Park
One of New Zealand’s most visited national parks, a kayak trip of gold-sand beaches, lush forest and crystal clear waters had got to be one of the best ways to check out this coastal haven.
Ben Lomond Track, Queenstown
We rate pretty much any hike in this part of the world as a top activity. If you’re in Queenstown looking for a hike with a great effort - reward ratio then you can’t go wrong with the Ben Lomond Track. Make to the top for the postcard-perfect view over Queenstown and its stunning surrounds.
