Helpful Travel Information
New Zealand - South Island

Gouged by glacier activity millions of years ago, the South Island's scenery is dramatic and spectacular. From the patchwork Canterbury Plains with the backdrop of the Southern Alps, to the goldmining history and wild beauty of the west coast you should keep your camera out and ready to snap!

You can flyover the fastest moving glacier in the world (the Franz Josef), journey through the breath-taking Arthurs and Haast passes or do one of the myriad of scenic walks in the stunning Milford Sound or Doubtful Sound regions. If you're feeling adventurous - you can't miss Queenstown - the action capital of New Zealand and birthplace of the bungy jump.

In the spectacular Abel Tasman National Park there's ocean kayaking, great walks and pristine beaches. You can whale-watch on the Kaikoura coastline or immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Marlborough Sound. You're even likely to find yourself blocked by herds of sheep crossing the road!

SAFARI PETE'S 'DON'T MISS' LIST

Take a dip in Milford Sound:

If you're game enough (it's a bit chilly) take a refreshing dip in the beautiful Milford Sound.

Go in search of a whale at Kaikoura:

Get a photo of a descending whale tale with the backdrop of the stunning Kaikoura Mountain Ranges. One to hang on the wall and boast about back home.

Jet Boat on the Dart River:

'Shiver Shake' your way up the magnificent wilderness area of the Dart River into the heart of the Aspiring National Park.

Try the local brew:

Hook into a can of Speights with a local and feel like a real Southlander.

Get a photo with a sheep:

Yes, is has to be done. Find a sheep, stand beside it and take a photo.

Enjoy a festival:

Grab a festival calendar and go to at least one of the many food and wine festivals on the South Island.

Go bungy jumping:

Throw yourself off the original bungy bridge at the world's first commercial bungy jump in Queenstown.

Kayak in the wilderness:

Milford Sound, Marlborough Sound, Abel Tasman National Park - there are too many beautiful places to list...

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