Luxury South Island
Tours made for you
Majestic mountains
Explore the dramatic landscapes of the Fiordland
Hiking trails
Lace up and discover a variety of hiking routes
Adventure sports
Try white-water rafting and other adrenalin activities
Distinctive wines
Visit the beautiful Marlborough wine region
Experience dramatic landscapes and snow-capped mountains
In contrast to the more populous North Island, the South Island of New Zealand is less inhabited, untamed and wild: perfect for adventure seekers. From the lush nature of Abel Tasman National Park to the majestic mountain ranges of the Fiordland: this is nature at its most dramatic and awe-inspiring.
For those looking to experience New Zealand’s unique nature, there are iconic hiking trails to explore, turquoise lakes to kayak across and glacier-carved fiords to cruise down.
Adrenalin junkies are naturally drawn to the South Island too, especially Queenstown, for skydiving, white-water rafting and a chance to visit the birthplace of the modern bungee jump.
In the north east of the island, the Marlborough wine region produces two-thirds of the nation’s wine. The region’s distinctive sauvignon blanc, with its tropical, mineral finish, has helped put New Zealand’s award-winning wine on the map.
Marvel at star-filled skies in remote luxury lodges, embark on an adventure to the Southern Alps or just explore the boundless nature, alive with native birdsong. The South Island is a rugged wilderness just waiting to be explored, an experience certain to create unforgettable memories.
Highlights
There are few better ways to discover this beautiful part of New Zealand than navigating the tranquil waterways of the Marlborough Sounds on a private vessel
Take a private helicopter flight to Awaroa and explore the unique rock formations in Kahurangi National Park before cruising through Abel Tasman National Park
Spend an afternoon cycling along the scenic Queenstown Trail towards the Kelvin Peninsula, stopping at cafes along the way for coffee and refreshments
The South Island provides such a stunning contrast of landscapes, unique wildlife and great food and wine. Swim with dolphins in Marlborough Sounds or watch yellow penguins arrive on the beaches around Dunedin. Drink Sauvignon Blanc in the north and Pinot Noir in the south, kayak the bays of Abel Tasman or soar above Milford Sound in a helicopter to land on a icy glacier. The South Island is made for those who want to be awed every moment of the day.
Ellie Khoury
Travel Designer
Luxury accommodation in South Island
Why book with Jacada?
Personalised design
We’ll plan your trip around your specific interests, tastes and preferences, providing helpful tips and honest advice based on first-hand knowledge of the destination.
Authentic experiences
Our expert guides and brilliant travel concierges are hand-picked to provide a genuine experience, bringing your destination to life with care and passion.
Responsible travel
Our luxury trips are designed with responsible travel principles that prioritise travel experiences that are both good for you and good for the planet.
Trip Inspiration
Where to go
Christchurch
Curious travellers will relish all the new eclectic hubs to discover in a city and region that is full of surprises, friendly locals and an inspirational community spirit.
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Dunedin and Coastal Otago
Dunedin is a university town and there is a good selection of lively restaurants and bars. It is also a great base from which to explore the Otago Peninsula with its rugged landscape, beautiful beaches and wildlife.
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Kaikoura
With the swelling Pacific Ocean on one side and the snowcapped Kaikoura Range on the other – Kaikoura is a quaint peninsula village that is a base for discovering some of New Zealand’s best wildlife.
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Lake Tekapo and Aoraki Mount Cook
New Zealand’s highest peak, Aroaki Mount Cook, is an arresting sight dominating the skyline of the national park which surrounds it.
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Milford Sound and Fiordland National Park
With the snowy-peaked Southern Alps sloping down into deep blue waters and lushly forested shores bursting with wildlife, the spectacular Fiordland National Park area in the south-western corner of the South Island is known for its stunning vistas.
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Nelson and Abel Tasman
New Zealand’s sunniest region has a diverse geography ripe for exploring from golden sand beaches to dense forests, the clearest fresh water lake in the world and secluded, enticing rivers.
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Queenstown and Wanaka
Queenstown is one of New Zealand’s most picturesque towns, sitting on the tip of the crystal clear Lake Wakatipu. It’s a bustling hub of international and local visitors come to seek out one of the endless thrills on offer here from skiing, white water rafting, canyon swinging, jet boating, mountain biking and bungy jumping.
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West Coast and the Glaciers
The narrow strip of coastline squeezed between the Southern Alps and Tasman Sea plays host to some of New Zealand’s most dramatic landscape, which is quite some claim.
Discover moreMeet your Australasia team
When to visit
New Zealand is a year-round destination. In summer visit the beaches and explore the country’s National Parks. Spring is a mild time of year to travel and the countryside comes to life. In winter the South Island is a playground for outdoor adventures and epic scenery. Autumn sees cold, crisp days in the South Island and more mild rainy days in the North Island.
Wine Tasting
March–April
Skiing and Snowboarding
June–September
Whale and Dolphin Spotting
Year Round
New Zealand Travel Guides
Plan your trip to South Island
Whatever you want from your adventure in South Island, our team of expert travel designers are ready to help.
Plan with peace of mind
When you book a trip in today’s world there’s a lot to think about. But with the right advice and expert planning, you can do it with confidence.
If you book to travel with us but your plans are impacted by circumstances you can’t control, we’ll change your reservation or cancel your booking for a full credit towards future travel.
