Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Welcome to the
South Island
Welcome to possibly the world's most scenically diverse island;
with lakes, mountains and beaches, often incorporating
quintessentially Kiwi ways to get active and adventurous.
Walk on the Wild Side
With just a million people scattered across 151,215 sq km, the South Island has a popula-
tion density smaller than Tasmania, Australia. Filling in the gaps are the sublime forests,
mountains, lakes, beaches and fiords that have made New Zealand's 'Mainland' one of the
best hiking (locals call it tramping) destinations on the planet. Tackle one of the six epic
'Great Walks' or just spend a few dreamy hours wandering through some easily accessible
wilderness.
Action Aplenty
The easygoing heritage charms of Arrowtown, Dunedin and Oamaru are undoubted, but the
South Island's most iconic experiences are best enjoyed with a healthy sense of adventure.
Kayak in the meandering coves of the Marlborough Sounds or amid Fiordland's remote
isolation, scare yourself silly with Queenstown's gravity-defying menu of bungy options,
or take to two wheels through stunning scenery on the Otago Central Rail Trail. During
winter, squeeze in a short ski-field break around Wanaka, Queenstown or Mt Hutt, before
adjourning to cosy bars and cafes to watch NZ's rugby legends take on the best of Australia
and South Africa.
Food, Wine & Beer
After all this exercise, visitors can ease into the local eating and drinking scene. NZ food
was once a bland facsimile of a British Sunday dinner, but these days Kiwi chefs dip into
new-world culinary oceans for inspiration. Expect a tasty focus on local and seasonal pro-
duce, especially around the stone-fruit orchards of Otago and the salty marine larder sur-
rounding Kaikoura.