New Zealand (South Island)

The South Island of New Zealand is my favourite Island. Nature is always the protagonist here. This Island is wilder than the north one. In this article you will find few links to the best activities I suggest you to do in the south island. Here's a list of what to see in New Zealand south island.

My journey began in Christchurch, a city that feels open, creative, and quietly resilient. Still shaped by its past, yet full of green spaces, cafés, and a strong sense of renewal, it’s the ideal gateway to the South Island. A gentle start before the landscapes begin to take over. You can't miss a dinner in the Church Pub, an old chirch transformed in a cool pub.

From there, the road led to Akaroa, nestled inside an ancient volcanic crater. With its French heritage, calm harbor, and pastel houses, Akaroa invites you to slow down instinctively. It’s the kind of place where time stretches perfect for walking by the water, enjoying fresh seafood, and simply being present. I enjoyed a wonderful cruise the fjord where I had the opportunity to see dolphins and other curios inhabitants of the sea.

You could also enjoy kayaking if the weather is cool!

One of the most memorable stops was Lake Tekapo. That unreal turquoise water, the vast sky, and the quiet all around you. Sitting by the lake eating pavlova, with the mountains in the background and the wind brushing past, felt like a moment suspended in time. Tekapo is minimal and powerful at once and at night, it transforms into one of the world’s best stargazing destinations, reminding you how small (and lucky) you are.

Further south, Queenstown marked a shift in energy. Framed by mountains and Lake Wakatipu, it’s vibrant, social, and surrounded by dramatic scenery. It’s also the perfect base for some of the most iconic experiences on the South Island.

For fans of The Lord of the Rings and honestly, even for those who simply love epic landscapes a half-day Lord of the Rings scenic tour from Queenstown is a must. The experience takes you to several filming locations in the Southern Alps, including exclusive access to private Arcadia Station and a visit to Mt. Aspiring National Park. Beyond reliving movie scenes, what truly stands out is the scale and beauty of the landscape. You can even don an LOTR costume and sword if you wish, making it playful without ever feeling kitsch. Morning or afternoon picnics are included, and transfers from central Queenstown make it effortless.

Another unforgettable moment was Milford Sound. Reaching it from Queenstown already feels cinematic, but arriving there is something else entirely. Towering cliffs, waterfalls cascading into deep waters, mist moving slowly through the fjord. The Milford Sound Coach & Cruise from Queenstown is one of the most scenic ways to experience it, combining panoramic road views with a cruise through the fjord itself.

Back on land, adrenaline lovers will appreciate Queenstown’s more dynamic side. The 30-minute high-speed jet boat adventure is pure energy: sharp turns, fast water, and wide smiles. It’s the perfect contrast to the stillness of fjords and glaciers — short, intense, and undeniably fun.

On the West Coast, Fox Glacier offered a completely different atmosphere. Here, ice meets rainforest in a way that feels almost unreal. One of the most powerful ways to experience this fragile landscape is a helicopter flight over Fox Glacier. Seeing the glacier from above, landing on the ice, and understanding its scale gives you a deeper awareness of how extraordinary and vulnerable this environment truly is. It was my first time on an elicopter, and I loved it!

The journey softened again in the Tasman region, where we stayed at The Pear Orchard Lodge. Surrounded by greenery and calm, it was one of those places that immediately makes you exhale. The Tasman area is gentle, warm, and relaxed a perfect balance after days of wild scenery. Golden beaches, soft light, and hospitality that feels genuine and unforced.