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
- Marlborough Sounds
- Blenheim
- Nelson
- Abel Tasman National Park
- Kaikoura
- Nelson Lakes National Park
- Hanmer Springs
- Lewis Pass
- Punakaiki
- Hokitika
- Franz Josef
- Haast Pass
- Arthur's Pass National Park
- Christchurch
- Akaroa
- Lake Tekapo
- Lake Pukaki
- Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park
- Twizel
- Omarama
- Wanaka
- Cromwell
- Arrowtown
- Queenstown
- Glenorchy
- St Bathans
- Oamaru
- Dunedin
- The Catlins
- Te Anau
- Milford Sound
- Stewart Island
- South Island New Zealand travel tips
- New Zealand travel essentials
- South Island New Zealand FAQ
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
- Tripod: To get great pictures when traveling solo
- Bug spray: Because sand flies are no joke!
- New Zealand guide book
- Portable charger: To stay connected
- Portable espresso maker: Works with Nespresso pods and is great for camping
- Polarized sunglasses
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.
You’ll also love:
- Best Waterfalls in the Catlins: A Full Guide to 8 New Zealand Hidden Gems
- Queenstown Luxury Spa Getaway: Onsen Hot Pools & Kamana Lakehouse
- Hiking the Red Tarns Track: Steep Stairs & A Glacial Lake
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
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
Hi Gralion, thanks for the nice words! I’m using the Neve WordPress theme but have edited it a bunch myself.