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South Island Tour Routes and Trave Itineraries
Soak your cares away at Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools & Spa

South Island Itineraries

Experience remarkable contrasts in New Zealand’s South Island, where alpine and coastal scenery sets the scene for relaxing indulgence, adrenaline-pumping adventures and unforgettable wildlife encounters.

South Island Touring Routes

Try these official South Island tourism itineraries for a regional theme.

The Treasured Pathway

Winding through the Marlborough and Nelson regions in the northern South Island, The Treasured Pathway covers over 260 km from Picton through the coves of the Marlborough Sounds, the cultural community of Nelson and the beaches of Golden Bay, to Farewell Spit. A guidebook is available to help you get the most out of this picturesque region.

Alpine Pacific Triangle

Blending eco-adventure and indulgence, this touring route links some of the South Island’s most popular visitor destinations – the wildlife of Kaikoura, the wineries of the Waipara Valley and the thermal resort of Hanmer Springs. Find out more at www.hurunui.com.

The Southern Scenic Route

If you’re interested in exploring New Zealand’s spectacular wilderness, this touring route is perfect for you. Beginning in Dunedin, where wildlife such as penguins, fur seals and Royal Albatross are easily accessible, the route winds through the magnificent coastal forests of the Catlins on the way to the southern city of Invercargill. The route heads north again before it concludes at the lakeside settlement of Te Anau, gateway to Fiordland National Park and the spectacular Milford Sound. Find out more at www.SouthernScenicRoute.co.nz.

Did you know?

The South Island’s ten National Parks each vie for the title of most remarkable. See the world’s largest daisies at Aoraki/Mt Cook, the unique alpine parrot at Arthur’s Pass or sea kayak around Abel Tasman – and that’s just a start!

Highlights

Abel Tasman National Park

Explore sheltered coves and forest-fringed beaches.

Marlborough

Blenheim is the epicentre of a wine-growing region producing world-famous Sauvignon Blanc.

Whale watching

Join a cruise at Kaikoura and catch a glimpse of these deep-sea giants.

Aoraki/Mt Cook

New Zealand’s highest peak presides over an alpine region of exquisite beauty.

Adrenaline rush

Bungy jumping, skiing, jet boating, white water rafting … adventure awaits in Queenstown.

Fiordland

A spellbinding region of pristine forest and fiords.

Heritage

From Dunedin’s Scottish roots to oh-so-English Christchurch, juxtaposed against the down-and-dirty history of the Gold Rush era, it’s paradise for history buffs.

Coast to Coast

Take a trip from Christchurch to Greymouth and acquaint yourself with the diversity of the South Island landscape. From sandy eastern beaches, you’ll cross sun-bleached plains, wide snow-fed rivers, climb through green rolling hills and pass rugged mountains (perhaps frosted with snow), dropping back down through dense rainforest to the pounding surf of a wild West Coast beach – and that’s all in one day!

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