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Home » The Best Places to Visit on New Zealand’s South Island: A Definitive List

The Best Places to Visit on New Zealand’s South Island: A Definitive List

The South Island of New Zealand may be one of the most beautiful places on Earth. Filled with lush hot springs, incredible mountains, and quirky towns, there’s a little bit of something for everyone. Whether you’re planning a weeks-long road trip or a weekend getaway, here is an ultimate list of the 33 best places to visit on the South Island!

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Best places to visit on the South Island

Picton

Region: Marlborough

Situated just across the Cook Strait from Wellington, Picton will be your first destination if you’re coming on a ferry from the North Island. This quaint little town is the gateway to the Marlborough Sounds and offers a lot in the way of boating, hiking, and outdoor activities. There are also tons of scenic spots for those that appreciate a good view!

Where to stay in Picton: Picton Beachcomber Inn for an inexpensive option on Picton Harbour or Sennen House Boutique Bed & Breakfast for a unique colonial villa

Must-do activities: Hike the 6.5 km (4 mi) Tirohanga Track, take a boat cruise around the bay, and check out EcoWorld Aquarium for native fish and reptiles

best places to visit south island: picton harbor from an airplane

Marlborough Sounds

Region: Marlborough

The Marlborough Sounds are an extensive collection of sea-drowned valleys and inlets on the northern coast of the South Island. Known as a relaxing getaway destination, the Sounds are a great place to visit if you’re after some one-on-one time with nature.

Where to stay in the Sounds: Furneaux Lodge for a chic water-front resort or Lochmara Lodge for a casual stay with an underwater observatory

Must-do activities: Go fishing, paddle a kayak around the inlets, and hike part of the Queen Charlotte Track

best places to visit south island: marlborough sounds

Blenheim

Region: Marlborough

This small town in the middle of New Zealand’s wine country is amazing for winos and foodies alike. With sunny weather that’s reminiscent of California’s Napa Valley, Blenheim is the perfect place to stroll through fancy vineyards and take in the scenery.

Where to stay in Blenheim: Marlborough Wine Barrel Cabins for a super-cute (and unique!) stay or 14th Lane Urban Hotel for a trendy retreat in the CBD

Must-do activities: Take a wine tour! There are both guided bus tour options and self-guided biking options — both are a blast.

Nelson

Region: Nelson

Nelson is a charming city on Tasman Bay that’s known for its local art scene and close proximity to caving sites, wineries, and Abel Tasman National Park. It’s a good city to base yourself in if you want to explore the nearby regions as everything is relatively close by.

Where to stay in Nelson: Joya Garden & Villa Studios for self-contained B&Bs or Maitai Whare Iti for secluded cabins in the bush

Must-do activities: Take a day trip to Cable Bay, sample peanut butter at Pic’s Peanut Butter World, and relax on Tahunanui Beach

best places to visit south island: nelson, new zealand
best places to visit south island: cable bay, nelson, new zealand
Cable Bay

Abel Tasman National Park

Region: Tasman

Abel Tasman National Park is the most tropical feeling place in New Zealand’s South Island. Everywhere you look, you’ll be surrounded by yellow sand beaches, turquoise water, and super lush green forests. The park itself can be experienced as either a day trip or as a multi-day trip.

Where to stay in Abel Tasman: Abel Tasman Lodge for a romantic getaway or The Barn for rustic cabins and camping

Must-do activities: Hike the Abel Tasman Coastal Track (one of New Zealand’s 10 Great Walks), search for wildlife on Tonga Island, and take a scenic boat trip around the golden beaches

Kaikoura

Region: Canterbury

Located right on the shores of the South Island’s east coast, Kaikoura is a cool town that’s famous for its plethora of whales, dolphins, and sea lions. Between the misty sea, towering mountains, and ample wildlife colonies, you’re bound to have a good time in Kaikoura if you’re a nature lover.

Where to stay in Kaikoura: The Fairways for luxury accommodation with a hot tub or Manakau PurePods for a glass eco-cabin

Must-do activities: Take a whale watching tour, spot sea lions on the coast at Kaikoura Seal Colony, and eat crayfish from Nin’s Bin seafood stall

best places to visit south island: kaikoura, new zealand

Nelson Lakes National Park

Regions: Tasman

Nelson Lakes National Park is made up of 16 picturesque lakes in the top center of New Zealand’s South Island. Despite being relatively unknown compared to other National Parks, Nelson Lakes has tons to offer. Some of the best things to do include hiking, boating, fishing, and mountain biking.

Where to stay in Nelson Lakes: Nelson Lakes Motels for large group cottages or Alpine Lodge for dorm rooms and apartments

Must-do activities: Visit the jetty at Lake Rotoiti, hike to Angelus Hut, or go skiing at Rainbow Ski Area

Hanmer Springs

Region: Canterbury

Hanmer Springs in the Hurunui District is another great spot for a relaxing staycation. Known for its mineral-fed hot springs and surrounding mountains, it makes a good place to visit in both the summer and winter months.

Where to stay in Hanmer Springs: Amuri Estate Luxury Lodge for 5-star accommodation or 8 on Oregon for a boutique lodge

Must-do activities: Soak in the Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools & Spa, walk up Conical Hill, and go jet boating down the Waiau River

Lewis Pass

Regions: Canterbury & West Coast

The Lewis Pass is the northernmost connecting road between Canterbury and the West Coast. You’ll find a few fun walks and things to do along your scenic drive.

Where to stay in Lewis Pass: Maruia Hot Springs for a rustic thermal springs resort or Lewis Pass Motels for clean and spacious rooms

Must-do activities: Hike to Lake Daniell, camp at Marble Hill, and take in the views at Lewis Pass Scenic Tarn

Punakaiki

Region: West Coast

Making our way over to the West Coast of the South Island, Punakaiki is a little town with some really cool rock formations. It’s also the gateway to nearby Paparoa National Park, a coastal forest that is straight out of Jurassic Park.

Where to stay in Punakaiki: Punakaiki Beach Hostel for a cheap and cheerful option or Te Nikau Retreat for self-contained cottages

Must-do activities: Visit the Pancake Rocks and Blowholes, walk the Truman Track, and explore the depths of the Punakaiki Cavern

West Coast Road Trip Day 2: Buller Gorge & Punakaiki

best places to visit south island: punakaiki pancake rocks, west coast, new zealand

Hokitika

Region: West Coast

For being such a small town, Hokitika sure packs a punch when it comes to things to do. With both epic scenery and cultural experiences, Hokitika is definitely one of the best places to visit on the South Island. There are also tons of short walks around the area to enjoy.

Where to stay in Hokitika: Hurunui Jacks for canopy glamping or Awatuna Sunset Lodge for a luxurious adults-only retreat

Must-do activities: Spot glow worms at the Glow Worm Dell, take a stroll above the treeline at West Coast Treetop Walk, walk the track around Hokitika Gorge, experience Maori culture by carving pounamu at Bonz’n’Stonz, and swim in Dorothy Falls and Lake Kaniere

West Coast Road Trip Day 3: Lake Kaniere & Hokitika

West Coast Road Trip Day 4: Treetop Walk & Hokitika Gorge

best places to visit south island: hokitika, west coast, new zealand

Franz Josef

Region: West Coast

Franz Josef, along with nearby Fox Glacier, are tourist and backpacking hubs on the West Coast. The main attraction is Franz Josef Glacier, a 12 km (7.5 mi) long glacier in Westland Tai Poutini National Park. The town also offers tons of adventure activities like skydiving, heli hiking, and bungee jumping.

Where to stay in Franz Josef: Rainforest Retreat for a sustainable and eco-friendly stay or Glow Worm Accommodation for a cosy room in the heart of town

Must-do activities: Hike (or heli hike!) to Franz Josef Glacier, do the Tatare Tunnels Walk through an abandoned mining tunnel, and soak in the Franz Josef Glacier Hot Pools

West Coast Road Trip Day 5: Tatare Tunnels & Franz Josef

best places to visit south island: franz josef, new zealand

Haast Pass

Regions: West Coast & Otago

Haast Pass is a mountain pass between the West Coast of the South Island and Otago. It’s home to Mount Aspiring National Park, where you’ll find heaps of tall mountains, glaciers, river valleys, and alpine lakes.

Where to stay in Haast Pass: Wonderland Makarora Lodge for a cute A-frame cabin or Haast River Motels & Holiday Park for those in campervans

Must-do activities: Go chasing waterfalls (Roaring Billy Falls, Thunder Creek Falls, and Fantail Falls) and take a frigid dip in the Blue Pools

West Coast Road Trip Day 7: Haast Waterfalls & Blue Pools

Arthur’s Pass National Park

Regions: West Coast & Canterbury

Driving through Arthur’s Pass, the middle road connecting Canterbury and the West Coast, is one of the best things to do on a South Island road trip. The scenic drive includes many beautiful overlooks, hiking tracks, and natural wonders.

Where to stay in Arthur’s Pass: Wilderness Lodge Arthur’s Pass for great views or Mountain House YHA for affordable digs

Must-do activities: Stroll through Castle Hill (an area with massive boulders), do some spelunking at Cave Stream Scenic Reserve, and hike the Bealey Spur Track

15 Unreal Things to Do in Arthur’s Pass, New Zealand

Christchurch

Region: Canterbury

Christchurch is the largest city on the South Island and a major transport hub to connect to other cities. If you’re flying in to the South Island, this is most likely where you’ll begin your journey.

The city itself has experienced a ton of growth after the tragic 2011 earthquakes and is now a super-cool destination with lots of great restaurants and bars. Also known as the garden city, Christchurch is one of the best places to visit on the South Island if you’re into the outdoors.

Where to stay in Christchurch: The George for luxury overlooking Hagley Park, Orari for a centrally-located bed and breakfast, or The Tack Rooms for stylish yet understated rooms

Must-do activities: Stroll through Hagley Park and the Christchurch Botanic Gardens, go op shopping at Paper Bag Princess, and take a picture with the Bridge of Remembrance

Best places to eat & drink: Amazonita, Barefoot Eatery, C1 Espresso, gin gin, Miro, Mr. Brightside Rooftop Bar, and any stalls at Riverside Market

18 Free (& Cheap) Things to Do in Christchurch

best places to visit south island: christchurch, canterbury, new zealand

Akaroa

Region: Canterbury

Located on the Banks Peninsula, Akaroa is a former French settlement with tons of culture and wildlife viewing opportunities. This quaint seaside town is perfect for a day trip or a weekend getaway from Christchurch.

Where to stay in Akaroa: SiloStay to experience a unique converted grain silo or Okains Bay campground for self-contained campervans

Must-do activities: Eat authentic French food at Ma Maison, hang out with the farm animals at Shamarra Alpacas, and take in views of the bay at Akaroa Lookout point

Lake Tekapo

Region: Canterbury

Lake Tekapo is a small town surrounded by unreal natural beauty. You’ll find a large, blue lake, tons of rolling hills, fields of flowers, and golden plains. The night sky is so clear that the entire town is considered an International Dark Sky Reserve!

Stargazing, cycling, and hiking are just a few of the activities that you can enjoy in Tekapo.

Where to stay in Tekapo: Galaxy Boutique Hotel Lake Tekapo for lake view suites or Peppers Bluewater Resort for secluded apartments

Must-do activities: Hike up to the Mount John Observatory, take pictures with fields of lupins, check out Church of the Good Shepherd, go stargazing and soak in the hot tubs at Tekapo Springs

Tekapo Travel Guide: 14 Can’t-Miss Things To Do Around Lake Tekapo

best places to visit south island: lupins in tekapo, new zealand

Lake Pukaki

Region: Canterbury

Just a half hour’s drive southwest from Tekapo, you’ll find an even more stunning lake (can you believe it?). Lake Pukaki is a crystal clear, powder blue glacial lake that often provides a mirrored reflection of the Southern Alps. Take a dip in the frigid water to perk yourself up, especially if you’re road tripping from Christchurch to Queenstown!

Where to stay in Pukaki: Lakestone Lodge for unparalleled food and views of the lake or The Pines for amazing freedom camping

Must-do activities: Cycle a part of the Alps2Ocean trail, walk the Pukaki Kettle Hole track, and eat some fresh sashimi at Mt Cook Alpine Salmon

reflection of aoraki/mt cook on lake pukaki, new zealand

Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park

Region: Canterbury

Surrounded in all directions by the Southern Alps, Aoraki / Mt Cook National Park is also home to New Zealand’s tallest mountain of the same name. The highest peak stands at a staggering 3,724 m (12,218 ft) tall! The spectacular views make this one of my personal favorite places to visit in all of New Zealand.

Where to stay in Aoraki/Mt Cook: The Hermitage Hotel, an iconic hotel within the park

Must-do activities: Take a scenic flight or go hiking on one of the many trails. My favorites include Mueller Hut, Hooker Valley Track, Red Tarns, and Tasman Glacier!

The Ultimate Guide to Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park

niki stands in aoraki/mt cook national park, new zealand

Twizel

Region: Canterbury

Twizel is hands-down one of the nicest holiday home towns in New Zealand. Sitting smack dab in the middle of four lakes (Lake Ruataniwha, Lake Ohau, Lake Benmore, and Lake Pukaki), it’s a great place for boating, swimming, fishing, and more.

Where to stay in Twizel: High Country Cabin for a chic, cozy vibe, SkyScape for amazing night sky views, or Highlands farmstay for a rural hut with friendly farm animals

Must-do activities: Go salmon fishing along the canals, spend the day on a boat at Lake Ruataniwha, hike the Greta Track

Welcome to Twizel: New Zealand’s Hidden Gem

Omarama

Region: Canterbury

Omarama is a tiny town at the intersection between the Lindis Pass and southern Canterbury. With unreal and easily accessible landscapes, hot tubs, and a few quality cafes, Omarama makes a great place to stop off on a longer road trip.

Where to stay in Omarama: Ahuriri Motels for clean and comfy rooms or BigSky Bed and Breakfast for heartfelt hospitality

Must-do activities: Walk among the otherworldly Clay Cliffs, take a soak at the Omarama Hot Tubs, and fuel up with snacks from Pink Glider Cafe

best places to visit south island: omarama clay cliffs, new zealand

Wanaka

Region: Otago

With beautiful lake views, snow-capped mountains, and a bevy of fantastic restaurants, Wanaka is a must-see spot on New Zealand’s South Island. Hiking, mountain biking, and river floating are some popular activities.

I personally like Wanaka a bit more than Queenstown and I definitely think that it deserves a day or two on any South Island itinerary!

Where to stay in Wanaka: Cross Hill Domes for luxury glamping or Wanaka Bakpaka Hostel for affordable rooms on the water

Must-do activities: Hike Roy’s Peak (especially cool at sunrise or sunset), have some fun at Puzzling World, climb a via ferrata behind a waterfall with Wildwire Wanaka

Best places to eat & drink: Scroggin, Francesca’s Italian Kitchen, Kai Whakapai, and Burrito Craft

best places to visit south island: roys peak, wanaka, new zealand

Cromwell

Region: Otago

When you think of Cromwell, you should think of two things: fruit and wine. This little Central Otago town has the perfect climate for both, making it the perfect spot for winos and foodies alike. Additionally, you can cycle down one of the many nearby trails or relax by the Clutha River.

Where to stay in Cromwell: Vines on Bannockburn for a boutique getaway or River Rock Estate for relaxation and hot pools

Must-do activities: Take a selfie with the Big Fruit, walk through the Heritage Precinct, and drink some wine at Wooing Tree Vineyard

best places to visit south island: cromwell, new zealand

Arrowtown

Region: Otago

Arrowtown is a historic Gold Rush site just outside of Queenstown. Although small, the charming town makes for a good half- or full-day trip if you want to step back in time. Try your luck panning for gold — you never know, you might strike it rich!

Where to stay in Arrowtown: The Arrow Hotel for luxurious apartments or The New Orleans Hotel for a historic building on the river

Must-do activities: Experience the history of gold panning at the Arrowtown Chinese Settlement, go swimming at Lake Hayes, and peruse the boutiques on Buckingham Street

arrowtown, new zealand

Queenstown

Region: Otago

If you had to choose just one place to visit on the South Island, Queenstown should be the place.

With tons of adventure activities, proximity to amazing natural wonders, an innovative restaurant scene, and a big backpacking community, Queenstown has something for everyone. It makes the perfect spot to base yourself while taking day trips nearby, as well!

Where to stay in Queenstown: Kamana Lakehouse for an architecturally stunning locale (with outdoor bathtub!) or Novotel Queenstown Lakeside for a contemporary hotel on the shores of Lake Wakatipu

Must-do activities: Take the gondola up the Tiki Trail, go jet boating down the Shotover River, hike to Bob’s Cove, and paragliding from Coronet Peak

Best places to eat & drink: Fergburger, Atlas Beer Cafe, Rata, and Nest

lake wakatipu, queenstown, new zealand

Glenorchy

Region: Otago

Just 45 minutes down the road from Queenstown, Glenorchy and its surrounds are straight out of a fairytale. This remote and peaceful town has lots to offer in terms of outdoor activities and Lord of the Rings filming locations. Hiking and cycling are musts — if you’re super adventurous, the famous Routeburn Track starts nearby!

Where to stay in Glenorchy: Ecoscapes for a cool glass-walled cabin or Camp Glenorchy Eco Retreat for a sustainable getaway in town

Must-do activities: Drive the Road to Paradise, walk the Lake Sylvan Track, stroll around the Glenorchy Lagoon Walkway, and check out the red shed at the Glenorchy Wharf

12 Awesome Things to Do in Glenorchy & Paradise

glenorchy pier, new zealand
Glenorchy Wharf, one of the best places to visit on the South Island

St Bathans

Region: Otago

Although kind of in the middle of nowhere, the town of St Bathans is worth a visit a detour if you’re driving from Queenstown to Dunedin. The main (and really, only) attraction is the loop track around Blue Lake, a man-made lake from when the town was a booming Gold Rush site. The white-washed cliffs and sandy shores make St Bathans look more like somewhere out of the Mediterranean than a town in Central Otago.

Where to stay in St Bathans: The Vulcan Hotel, a historic (and supposedly haunted) building

Must-do activities: Walk the track around the Blue Lake

Oamaru

Region: Otago

The town of Oamaru is at once quaint and unbelievably eccentric. With Victorian England-style streets and an indescribable fascination with steampunk, Oamaru is an interesting place to visit for a day or two. Make sure to go down to the coast for some epic views.

Where to stay in Oamaru: Pen-y-bryn Lodge for charming period-style rooms and free breakfast or The Old Confectionery, a remodeled candy factory

Must-do activities: Tour the Steampunk HQ building, look out for penguins at the Oamaru Blue Penguin Colony, and take a beach walk alongside the Moeraki Boulders (make sure to go at low tide)

16 Quirky & Fun Things to Do in Oamaru, New Zealand’s Victorian City

oamaru, new zealand

Dunedin

Region: Otago

Dunedin is a bustling university town with tons of cultural and historical sites. Boasting a strong Scottish heritage and plenty of marine life on its beaches, Dunedin is one of the best spots for a coastal getaway on the South Island.

Where to stay in Dunedin: The Stables Dunedin for historical boutique studios or The Hydro Esplanade Apartments for beach-front accommodation

Must-do activities: Wander through Larnach Castle, walk down to the ocean at Tunnel Beach, stand on Baldwin Street (the “steepest street in the world”), and jump over sand dunes at Sand Fly Bay

Dunedin Travel Guide: The Best Things to Eat, See, and Do

best places to visit south island: dunedin, new zealand

The Catlins

Regions: Otago & Southland

The Catlins is an area on the southeastern coast of the South Island from Balclutha to Invercargill. Despite having some of the best views and things to do, the whole area remains criminally underrated.

There are tons of opportunities to see wildlife, take short walks through the forest, and breathe in the ocean breeze. The Catlins are one of the best places to visit on the South Island if you love nature!

Where to stay in The Catlins: Seascape Kaka Point for a cozy seaside motel or Curio Bay Salthouse Motel and Apartment for self-catering suites

Must-do activities: Walk the trail to Nugget Point Lighthouse, search for sea lions at Curio Bay, and see the southernmost point of the South island at Slope Point

Catlins Road Trip Itinerary: 4 Days in New Zealand’s Most Underrated Region

best places to visit south island: nugget point lighthouse, the catlins, new zealand
best places to visit south island: the catlins, new zealand

Te Anau

Region: Southland

Te Anau is the gateway to Milford Sound, Doubtful Sound, and Fiordland National Park. It makes a great base to start adventuring the nearby region. It also has enough to do to keep you busy for a few days. Te Anau is especially wonderful if you’re big on hiking!

Where to stay in Te Anau: Fiordland Lodge Te Anau for lakeside luxury or Radfords on the Lake for plush rooms with a view

Must-do activities: Check out the Te Anau Glow Worm Caves, hike the Kepler Track, and drive the scenic road to Milford Sound

16 Exciting Things to Do in Te Anau, New Zealand

Milford Sound

Region: Southland

Milford Sound’s stunning landscapes make it one of the absolute best places to visit on the South Island. It’s a bucket list destination that every visitor to New Zealand should check out at least once.

The best way to see Milford Sound is by boat, so make sure to book a scenic cruise around the fjords if you’re keen on visiting.

Where to stay in Milford Sound: Milford Sound Lodge to be right near the action

Must-do activities: Take a scenic cruise around Milford Sound

14 Best Things to Do in Milford Sound: First Timer’s Guide

best places to visit south island: te anau/milford sound, new zealand

Stewart Island

Region: Southland

Stewart Island is a remote and unspoiled area about 30 km (18.6 mi) south of the South Island. Known for its birdlife and pristine walking tracks, Stewart Island is a gem. It also makes a great addition to any South Island itinerary, especially one that’s off the beaten path.

Where to stay on Stewart Island: Stewart Island Backpackers for affordable rooms or Kaka Retreat for lush surroundings amongst native bush

Must-do activities: Take a guided walk around Ulva Island, watch for kiwis, and walk the Rakiura Track

South Island New Zealand travel tips

Getting to the South Island

If you’re coming from abroad, you’ll most likely fly into Christchurch International Airport (CHC). From elsewhere in New Zealand, you could also fly into Dunedin (DUD) and Queenstown (ZQN).

If you’re coming by ferry from the North Island, you’ll arrive in Picton. The ferry operates several times a day between Picton and Wellington. Tickets cost around $60 per person one way (more if you’re bringing a car or a bike).

How to get around the South Island

The absolute best way to travel the South Island is by campervan. Public transportation is unreliable and guided tours can be incredibly expensive. Self-driving allows you to see what you want, when you want. It also ends up saving money, especially if your campervan is self-contained!

Everything You Need to Know About New Zealand Freedom Camping

Best time to visit the South Island

The South Island can make a great destination throughout the year. Summer is the most popular choice because the weather is the best, but hotels and activities can be more expensive. Traveling the South Island during winter is also a great option if you’re planning on participating in winter sports. Keep in mind that it’s much colder than the North Island, though!

Currency & budget

New Zealand is an expensive place to visit, and the South Island in particular is no exception. Prices for accommodation, food, and transportation can set you back big time. Here are a few money-saving tips for traveling the South Island!

How to Travel New Zealand on a Budget (21 Money-Saving Tips)

Accommodation: While not as flash, hostels are much cheaper than hotels or Airbnbs. You can usually find private rooms in a hostel for less than a room at a mid-range hotel.

Food: Cooking your own food will definitely save you a ton of money. If you do eat out, try to stick to brunch or lunch because you’re more likely to get a deal.

Activities: Many of the most popular activities on the South Island are actually free! Hiking, cycling, and swimming are all free of charge and are definitely things you should add to your list.

Transportation: Try to fuel up before heading to smaller or more remote towns. Fuel prices are often much more expensive in more touristy spots as well!

New Zealand travel essentials

best places to visit south island: moeraki boulders outside of dunedin, new zealand
Moeraki Boulders

South Island New Zealand FAQ

Should I visit the North Island or the South Island?

The two islands are very different in terms of scenery and general vibe.

The North Island is more culturally and linguistically diverse than the South Island. Maori culture is more prevalent as well. You’ll find amazing beaches, warmer weather, and lots of geothermal activity.

The South Island is renowned for being the more naturally beautiful of the two. You get super diverse landscapes that range from snowy mountains to lush forests and craggy ocean cliffs. There is so much to see and do so you’ll never get bored.

Overall, I’d recommend visiting the South Island if you had to pick between the two.

What are the best places to visit on the South Island?

In my opinion, the absolute best places to visit on the South Island include Queenstown, Milford Sound, and Mount Cook. Depending on what kind of trip you enjoy, your top places could be different!

Other best places to visit for the:

  • Nature lover: Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park, Milford Sound, Punakaiki
  • Wine lover: Blenheim, Picton, Wanaka
  • Foodie: Christchurch, Kaikoura, Queenstown
  • Off-the-beaten-path explorer: The Catlins, St Bathans, Oamaru

Should I rent a car or a campervan?

This comes down to personal preference as well.

Do you want to stay in hotels, Airbnbs, or unique glamping spots? Is your budget a little bit higher? Then renting a car could be a good option.

If you’re on a budget and are okay with staying at campsites, then a campervan is the way to go. There are so many beautiful (and often completely free!) spots you can park up. Renting a campervan is the move if you want to be more in touch with nature during your visit.

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Thanks for reading this list of best places to visit on New Zealand’s South Island! Do you have a favorite spot that I’ve missed? Leave it in the comments below!

xoxo Niki

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  1. I really like your blog.. very nice colors & theme. Did you create this website yourself or did you hire someone to do it for you? Plz answer back as I’m looking to design my own blog and would like to find out where u got this from. many thanks

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