Thermal springs, glacial valleys, wildlife, wilderness and wineries, every stop on a South Island road trip has something different to offer.
New Zealand’s South Island is full of unique experiences, hosting the purest natural landscapes you’ll ever experience. From wildlife to wineries, glacial valleys to star-filled skies, nature’s best flourishes against a palette of dramatic scenes.
With a New Zealand South Island Campaign currently live in market, it will be the destination that’s top of mind with your customers! Make sure you are aware of those hidden gems, and keep an eye out for more articles to come, as we give you some jaw-dropping experiences and itineraries to package together for the South Island.
From whale watching, wine tasting to national parks our first journey of the South Island will give you inspiration for every customer, keep reading to discover the top highlights of our Top of the South Journey…
Discover Whales at Kaikoura
The South Island town of Kaikoura, is inextricably linked to whales. Particularly the giant sperm whale that legend says guided the Maori ancestor Paikea to New Zealand riding on the whale’s back.
Kaikoura is a small seaside town overlooked by towering mountain peaks, a unique spot with incredible marine life and a great eco-tourist industry.
Dive with dolphins, head out on a whale-watching cruise and finish the day with fresh local seafood.
Marlborough Wine Tasting
Hundreds of wineries have made this special wine region their home, and they have made the New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc one of the most iconic wine styles in the world.
Take a cellar door tour in Marlborough to taste some of the undiscovered Sauvignon Blanc wine, and see the other styles that thrive in this vibrant wine region and discover the food culture that accompanies the wine.
Hike the coast at Abel Tasman National Park
Abel Tasman National Park is situated near the top of the South Island, and is accessible by walking, cruising or kayak. The Abel Tasman Coast Track follows the coastline through native bush, beside limestone cliffs and along golden beaches.
Take a walk across the 5-metre high suspension bridge at Falls River or slide down the natural, moss-covered slide into pristine waters of Cleopatra’s pool.
Make sure you keep an eye out for seals and dolphins who regularly play in these coastal waters!
Heat it up at Hanmer Springs
Best known for its natural hot pools, and stunning landscapes, Hanmer Springs is a picturesque alpine village 90 minutes’ drive from Christchurch. Surrounded by dramatic mountains and a main street filled with boutique shops, cafes and eateries, a visit is not complete without a dip in the naturally warm waters of Hanmer Springs.
Explore the city of Christchurch
Foodies will love a visit to Christchurch that has one of the most vibrant café scenes in New Zealand. You can grab the perfect espresso at places like Lyttleton Coffee Company or Caffeine Laboratory, or get your hands on the city’s finest burgers at Smash Palace.
Not to mention stroll to some of the backstreet bars and al fresco beer gardens that make the Garden City ideal for a gastronomic break.
Test your knowledge to WIN!
Think you are an expert on the South Island Journeys?
Head on over to Tourism New Zealand’s trade website to test your knowledge of New Zealand’s South Island and go in the draw to win one of five $250 vouchers.
Keep an eye out to discover the next hot spots of each journey coming soon…
What do you love about the South Island?
- READ: Discover creativity around every corner in New Zealand: to reasons to visit Wellington & Marlborough!
- READ: GOING, GOING, GONE!: New Zealand joins Australia in dumping departure cards
Written by Paul Chai, KARRYON contributor
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