South Island Aotearoa - New Zealand
Discover the South Island of Aotearoa – New Zealand
The South Island of Aotearoa – New Zealand is a land where nature speaks loudest — with soaring mountains, glacier-fed lakes, ancient rainforests and remote coastlines all waiting to be explored. Known as Te Waipounamu, this island offers travellers a deep connection to the wild beauty of the land, a slower pace and some of the most dramatic scenery in the Southern Hemisphere.
This is the home of Aoraki – Mount Cook, the tallest peak in the country and the icy splendour of Kā Roimata o Hine Hukatere – the Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers. You’ll find the serenity of turquoise lakes in Mackenzie Country, the sweeping golden sands of Abel Tasman National Park and the untouched wilderness of Fiordland, where waterfalls plunge into deep, ancient sounds.
Te Waipounamu is also rich in stories. From the southern tip of Motupōhue – Bluff, all the way north to Te Tai-o-Aorere – Golden Bay, you’ll encounter places with deep cultural significance. The name itself, Te Waipounamu, refers to the treasured greenstone found in the region, long sought after by Māori and still held in reverence today.
The South Island draws in those who seek vast open spaces, starlit skies and journeys through both time and terrain. Whether you’re sipping wine in Central Otago, hiking the Southern Alps, kayaking a hidden inlet or standing in awe beneath a glacial valley — Te Waipounamu leaves its mark on your soul.
Keen to discover the South Island? Tap on a destination below to dive into dramatic landscapes, hidden gems, and local highlights.
Wild, remote and untamed. The West Coast delivers glaciers, rugged coastline, rainforest walks and stories from a frontier past.
Remote, wild and welcoming. Rakiura offers birdlife, forest hikes, dark skies and a peaceful pace far from the mainland rush.
A maze of sunken valleys, calm waters and native bush. Perfect for boating, hiking and relaxing with a glass of wine.
A creative city rising with resilience. Christchurch offers parks, street art, food spots and a gateway to South Island adventures.
A stargazer’s dream nestled beside a brilliant turquoise lake. Visit the Church of the Good Shepherd, relax in hot pools or enjoy alpine hikes.
Where mountains meet the sea. Kaikōura is famous for whale watching, seafood, coastal walks and ocean-to-alps scenery.
From snowy peaks to wide plains, Canterbury blends adventure and agriculture with alpine towns, braided rivers and heritage villages.
Golden beaches, turquoise bays and coastal walks. Abel Tasman National Park is an accessible haven for kayaking, tramping and sunshine.
From heritage towns to alpine lakes, Otago blends natural beauty, gold rush history and vibrant culture across its varied landscapes.
Adventure capital of Aotearoa. Queenstown excites with epic views, thrilling activities, fine dining and mountain magic in every season.
A quirky southern city with Scottish roots. Dunedin charms with wildlife, steep streets, student energy and striking architecture.
Towering cliffs, waterfalls and still waters. Piopiotahi is a breathtaking fiord carved by time and nature’s power.
The southernmost town on the mainland. Bluff is your seafood gateway to Stewart Island — rugged, real and full of character.
Explore farmlands, forests and small towns. Southland is full of hearty kai, coastal beauty and authentic southern hospitality.
A laidback alpine town beside a mirror-like lake. Wānaka is ideal for hiking, skiing, relaxing or chasing Instagram-worthy views.
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