Things to do over the New Year's Day long weekend in South Island (Updated 2026)

See the city of Christchurch from above by taking a trip aboard the Christchurch Gondola. The cable car takes you on a scenic journey to...

Visit New Zealand’s only Castle, situated on the dramatic Otago Peninsula and only a 20-minute drive from central Dunedin. Learn about the colonial history and...

See the beautiful countryside surrounding Dunedin when your cruise ship is in port, on a small-group tour of the Otago Peninsula. This scenic tour takes...

Be struck by the beautiful silence of Doubtful Sound as you cruise the crystal waters and take in the breathtaking scenery. Journey across Lake Manapouri,...

If you’re a movie fan or lover of beautiful landscapes, take the opportunity to see film locations from ‘The Lord of the Rings’ films on...

Queenstown is now the home of New Zealand's scariest Haunted House! Fear Factory Queenstown offers you a real life horror experience. Challenge yourself and your...

Get closer to Milford Sound's natural wonders aboard our spacious, purpose-built catamarans. Enjoy more room to move around, with incredible views from our outdoor viewing...

Hop aboard our sturdy vessel for a one-hour Wildlife Cruise, departing from Wellers Rock Wharf on the Otago Peninsula. You'll cruise out of the Otago...

A visit to the Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools & Spa is an absolute must do! Book tickets here and let the powers of thermal heat...

Small groups (max 15) mean personalized experiences with passionate local guides who share hidden stories about Christchurch, Lake Tekapo, and Aoraki Mount Cook National Park...

Experience one of New Zealand’s most iconic alpine journeys combining scenic rail travel with a guided exploration of Arthur’s Pass National Park. Travel from Christchurch...

Embark on a half-day sightseeing tour of Christchurch while your ship is at port in Lyttelton. This tour highlights both the damage to the city...

For over 60 years, Interislander has been sharing the stunning scenery of Wellington Harbour and the breathtaking Marlborough Sounds with over 800,000 passengers every year....

Discover one of New Zealand’s most unforgettable wildlife experiences at the West Coast Wildlife Centre — voted one of Lonely Planet’s 12 must-see attractions. Located...

Experience the South Island’s striking natural landscape by taking a train one way between Greymouth and Christchurch. Along this journey you’ll see epic vistas, travel...

Experience the natural treasures of New Zealand on a whale-watching cruise from the picturesque town of Kaikoura. Look for the mighty Sperm Whales that live...

Queenstown to Christchurch via Mt Cook, this small group, fully-guided tour combines two of the most stunning locations in the South Island with the time...

Depart Picton at 9:00am and cruise through the Queen Charlotte Sound to historic Ship Cove. Along the way enjoy the sights and scenery and keep...

The best experience in Marlborough. This tour offers an amazing, fully-guided experience wildlife. A small-group tour to view some of New Zealand’s spectacular scenery and...

Be mesmerized by the World Heritage listed Fiordland National Park and Milford Sound on this full-day tour from Te Anau....

Discover the breathtaking Southern Alps on this Arthur's Pass day tour from Christchurch. Travel in premium comfort through Canterbury's alpine region, then return on the...