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Wide angle shot of grand snowy mountain peaks, with a clear lake at the forefront, reflecting the surrounding lush trees, New Zealand

New Zealand's South Island Holidays


new zealand & the pacific
New Zealand's spectacular South Island holidays offer a heady mix of vibrant cities, world-renowned wine regions, unforgettable wildlife encounters, adrenaline-fuelled adventures, and breathtaking scenery.

Admire the snow-capped peak of Mount Cook, cruise the dramatic fiords of Milford Sound, or relax on the golden sands of Abel Tasman National Park. Savour gourmet wine pairings in picturesque Marlborough, New Zealand’s largest wine-growing region, or head to the scenic coastal town of Kaikoura, famed for its abundant marine life.

Whether you’re planning an in-depth exploration of the South Island’s diverse landscapes or combining your journey with the highlights of the North Island, this remarkable region promises unforgettable experiences and some of the country’s most awe-inspiring scenery.

Trailfinders is the UK's No.1 Leisure Tour Operator for New Zealand holidays*

and our expert travel consultants are mine of information about what to do in the South Island, often with first-hand travel experience. Whether you want to explore New Zealand on a fly drive holiday, a sociable guided group tour, or are looking for advice on how to combine New Zealand with Australia or the Pacific – they are the perfect people to ask.

*by volume of clients to New Zealand as confirmed by the national tourist board, Tourism New Zealand, in August 2026.
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OUR HOLIDAYS TO NEW ZEALAND'S SOUTH ISLAND

Nobody offers more ways to explore New Zealand than Trailfinders.

Here's a snapshot of some of our most popular South Island holidays. If you don’t see what you’re looking for, click on the link below them to see our complete range of holidays and tours in the destination.
South Island Uncovered including Sydney Stopover
Multi Centre Holiday
18 days / 17 nights

Combine a stay in vibrant Sydney with the natural wonders of New Zealand’s South Island.

Guide Price: €5,449 pp

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South Island Discovery
Motorhome
18 days / 17 nights

Exploring New Zealand in a Maui or Britz motorhome is the perfect way to travel, offering complete comfort and superb facilities for all your needs.

Guide Price: €2,799 pp

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New Zealand by Rail
Rail
21 days / 20 nights

New Zealand’s well-connected rail network combines comfort and convenience with stellar natural beauty.

Guide Price: €6,449 pp

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Absolute Luxury New Zealand
Fly Drive Holiday
20 days / 19 nights

This exceptional holiday brings together a collection of New Zealand’s finest lodges and hotels.

Guide Price: €10,879 pp

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Great Walks of New Zealand
Multi Centre Holiday
24 days / 23 nights

Explore the magical outdoors of New Zealand while experiencing the sublime beauty of the landscape on some of the country’s most scenic tracks.

Guide Price: €9,399 pp

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Best of New Zealand
Fly Drive Holiday
24 days / 23 nights

Covering both North and South Island highlights, this journey showcases the best of what this magnificent country has to offer.

Guide Price: €5,179 pp

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WHERE TO GO IN THE SOUTH ISLAND

Each region of New Zealand’s South Island boasts its own attractions and each merits a visit in its own right. Marvel at the infamous ice formations of Franz Josef Glacier, cruise the waters of the infamous Sounds and soak up the views from the top of Queenstown’s gondola.

Click on the tiles below the South Island map for more details on each region. Alternatively, if you are looking for some inspiration, give us a call and speak to one of our expert travel consultants.
Marlborough, Abel Tasman & Kaikoura
Marlborough, Kaikōura and Abel Tasman each boast their own attractions and merit a visit in their own right. Visit the famous wine producing region of Marlborough for scenic vineyards, journey to the coastal town of Kaikōura for its incredible wildlife encounters and head to stunning Abel Tasman for some of the country's most impressive coastal scenery.
Central South Island
Traversed by the iconic TranzAlpine train, this part of South Island boasts an incredibly diverse landscape, from the spectacular shimmering ice formations of the Franz Josef Glacier to the towering gorges of Arthur’s Pass National Park. Christchurch, the largest city in the region boasts extensive botanical gardens and the quaint town of Akaroa is not to be missed.
Queenstown & the Lakes
Encompassing some of New Zealand’s most famous destinations, the beautiful scenic roads, pristine glacial lakes and lush vineyards need to be seen to be believed. Vibrant Queenstown has its fair share of spectacular scenery, especially from the Skyline Gondola, and don’t miss the much photographed Wānaka tree.
Fiordland National Park & Glenorchy
There are few places more emblematic of New Zealand’s impressive scenery and panoramic mountain views than Fiordland National Park. Cruising Milford or Doubtful Sound can be high on the bucket list but hidden gems like Glenorchy could also be the perfect way to visit this area of epic wilderness.
Stewart Island & The South East Coast
The idyllic and lesser traversed Stewart Island and the south east coast boast an abundance of wildlife experiences and beautiful scenery. Explore the harbour city of Dunedin, spot penguins on the Otago Peninsula, see kiwis roam free on Stewart Island and get off the beaten track in Catlins Forest Park.

OUR RECOMMENDED HOTELS IN THE SOUTH ISLAND

We feature a great range of accommodation in New Zealand’s South Island, with something to suit all budgets. From idyllic cottages to eco lodges and luxury treehouses, we have a host of fabulous options.

What you won’t find here are thousands of hotels in the South Island to wade through. We have done the hard work for you and selected the best places to stay and our travel consultants are on hand to help, often with first-hand experience.
The George
5 star

Central South Island

With a reputation for modern and artistic individuality, warm hospitality and award-winning cuisine, this beautiful boutique-style property offers intimate luxury in the heart of Christchurch.
Hapuku Lodge + Tree Houses
5 star

Marlborough, Abel Tasman & Kaikoura

Set at the base of the Kaikōura Seaward Mountain Range, overlooking a deer farm, this luxurious and relaxing country retreat showcases unique, contemporary accommodation created from wholly natural products and boasts true Kiwi hospitality.
Awaroa Lodge
4 star

Marlborough, Abel Tasman & Kaikoura

Tucked away amid wetlands in the heart of the Abel Tasman National Park, this intimate property, only accessible by boat or on foot, lets you immerse yourself in the national park and provides the perfect base for exploring this captivating area.
Pen-y-bryn Lodge
4 plus star

Stewart Island & The South East Coast

Experience warm hospitality in this elegant Victorian heritage property dating back to 1889.
Blanket Bay
5 plus star

Fiordland National Park & Glenorchy

Set amongst green pastures which give way to native beech forest and snow-capped peaks, this luxurious timber and stone clad lodge stands proudly amongst beautiful grounds.
voco Queenstown
4 star

Queenstown & The Lakes

Located just a short stroll from the lakefront and Queenstown’s lively town centre, this property is the ideal base for exploring the town and surrounding area.

WHAT TO DO IN THE SOUTH ISLAND

As well as some awe-inspiring sights, New Zealand’s South Island is also home to unforgettable experiences. These provide a way to experience the area’s natural splendour that sightseeing alone simply can’t replace.

One day you might be sipping wine in the world-renowned Marlborough region, the next swimming with dolphins in Kaikoura or embarking on a thrilling heli hike on Franz Josef Glacier. Our collection of unmissable experiences will really help bring your New Zealand holiday to life.
Kaikoura Whale Watch Cruise
3.5 hours
Departs: Kaikoura

Visit this picturesque town with a back drop of rolling hills, heading out to sea to catch a ...

Franz Josef Glacier Heli Hike
4 hours (2.5 on the glacier)
Departs: Franz Josef

A truly thrilling experience, your expert guide will make this amazing but inhospitable environment ...

Christchurch Tramway Restaurant
2.5 hours
Departs: Christchurch

Be treated to the finest service, cuisine and beverages New Zealand has to offer on a colonial ...

TranzAlpine - Christchurch to Greymouth Scenic Plus
5 hours
Departs: Christchurch

Journey from Christchurch to Greymouth via the Arthur’s Pass National Park aboard the spectacular ...

Skyline Queenstown Gondola
Attraction Ticket
Departs: Queenstown

Hop aboard the Skyline Gondola, the steepest cable car in the Southern Hemisphere, to revel in the ...

1 Night Doubtful Sound Cruise
2 days / 1 night
Departs: Queenstown

Doubtful Sound is a truly incredible place; the second largest fiord in Fiordland National Park and ...

South Island Top Tips From Our Travel Experts

Lauren -  expert
Lauren

A scenic and charming hidden gem in New Zealand, Stewart Island offers a simpler way of living. With only 380 people living here it really is an escape from the modern world. The main island (and surround islands) are teeming with bird life, the coves and bays are so peaceful and the tiny town of Oban is full of charm and local history.

Peter -  expert
Peter

Akaroa is a perfect destination to start or finish your trip. So peaceful and scenic, this lazy seaside town will allow you to unwind before setting off on your trip, or give you time to reflect on a great trip just had. 100% recommend.

Pete -  expert
Pete

New Zealand's South Island is absolutely beautiful, especially the west coast from Punakaiki down to Queenstown. The hiking opportunities in Franz Josef are fantastic. Pack an anorak, pull on your walking boots and hit the trails!


Tales from the Trail

Top tips and travel inspiration from the Trailfinders team

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