Top South Island Adventure Tours - page 8

Totally Personalized Private Experience! Enjoying the scenic views between Christchurch and Queenstown with a fully guided, adventure-filled journey through the breathtaking Southern Alps. Embark on a scenic tour stops at Lake Tekapo, Lake Pukaki, Aoraki/MT.Cook, Tasman Glacier, High Country Salmon, Lindis Pass and Resort town and finally arriving in Queenstown. On your journey explore region’s dramatic landscapes, capture memorable photographs, and learn about the area's natural and cultural significance. The tour concludes in Queenstown, offering a truly enriching and immersive travel experience.

Escape to peace and tranquillity with a hot air balloon flight over the Canterbury Plains. Your day starts early. Ballooning is best at sunrise, when the air is calmest and light finest. You'll be contacted the evening before to confirm time and place. Meet the team at the Hororata base, just 30 minutes from Christchurch Airport, then transfer to the best launch site for the day, chosen for the best views based on the weather. Family-run since 2012. Chief Pilot Michael Oakley has flown since 1997, A New Zealand Champion who has represented New Zealand at the World Hot Air Balloon Championships. Son Nicholas has flown since age 4 and now flies commercially alongside him. Flight time is about an hour over the Canterbury Plains, with views to the Southern Alps to the Pacific Ocean. It can be hands-on: help the crew inflate the balloon and pack it away after landing. Back on the ground, celebrate with chilled bubbly or juice, fresh muffins and seasonal fruit.

Take in the stunning vistas of Lake Wānaka and its surroundings from the sky. Beginning at Wānaka Airport, enjoy a thrilling helicopter ride that soars above the shimmering waters and rugged ridgelines of Roy Peak, culminating in an alpine landing at an impressive 1,200 meters on Mt Alpha. Here, you can step out and soak in 360-degree views that encompass the majestic Southern Alps and the expansive lake below. This scenic flight, available year-round, offers breathtaking perspectives, whether under summer's golden light or winter's crisp snow. A perfect choice for families and travellers looking to experience the beauty of New Zealand's South Island in a short time.

Our Christchurch city tour is designed to give visitors more than just sightseeing—we offer a personal, immersive experience that truly connects you with the heart and culture of the city. Unlike standard tours, we focus on authentic local insights, flexible pacing, and thoughtful storytelling that brings Christchurch’s history, regeneration, and natural beauty to life. Guests enjoy carefully chosen viewpoints, hidden gems, and meaningful stops that many tours overlook. With small groups, friendly commentary, and plenty of opportunities for photos and exploration, our tour feels less like a bus ride and more like discovering the city with a knowledgeable local friend.

Totally Personalized Private Experience! Let’s explore New Zealand's Tallest Peak, Aoraki/Mount Cook’s Māori Significance, Tasman Glacier – New Zealand's Largest Glacier, Unique Flora and Fauna, Mountaineering History, Icebergs and Ice Caves, Panoramic Helicopter Flights, Photographer’s Paradise, beautiful lakes (Lake Tekapo & Lake Pukaki) and Lavender farm. We invite you to consider Kiwi Adventures Tour & Travel as an integral part of your next adventure. Our private tour offers something for everyone.

Embark on an adrenaline-filled scenic off-road buggy adventure through a 650-acre private property in Queenstown. Ride in a high-powered 1000cc 6-seater buggy as expert guides lead you across rugged terrain, past panoramic viewpoints, and through the area’s gold mining history. Designed for all ages, from four years old above, this experience blends thrilling exploration with unbeatable scenery in New Zealand’s adventure capital.

A great way to experience the best of Kaikoura's sealife! This two-day tour takes you north from Christchurch to the coastal town of Kaikoura; a bustling township with many cafes, restaurants and shops as well as incredible wildlife. Kaikoura is one of the only places in the world where whales and dolphins can be encountered every day! When you arrive, head out on a magical swimming encounter with Dusky Dolphins. On day 2, experience the world-famous Kaikoura Whale Watch tour before heading down the scenic coast back to Christchurch. This is an Independent coach tour, where you travel on a combination of touring coaches and sightseeing services with commentary and/or point to point coaches which may not have commentary. You will be with different people on each part of the tour and different drivers. You have free time to explore on your own and are free to choose where and when to eat, meals are not included unless specified.

Milford Sound’s breathtaking landscapes await in this exclusive Heli‑Cruise‑Heli Ultimate experience. Begin your journey with a scenic flight from Queenstown, soaring over Fiordland National Park’s dramatic peaks and lush valleys. After a boutique cruise showcasing Milford Sound’s towering cliffs and pristine waters, enjoy a gourmet two‑course lunch on board. The adventure continues with alpine landings at spectacular locations, including the awe‑inspiring Earnslaw Burn, where cascading waterfalls and panoramic mountain views create a truly unforgettable atmosphere. This luxurious journey offers an intimate exploration of New Zealand’s natural wonders, combining air, sea, and alpine experiences into one seamless adventure—ideal for luxury travelers and nature enthusiasts alike.

Explore the enchanting landscapes of Middle Earth on this half-day adventure from Te Anau. Travel through the stunning Fiordland National Park, visiting iconic filming locations from the Lord of the Rings, including the Dead Marshes and Mavora Lakes. With expert guides passionate about the lore of the films, you'll gain insights into the making of the series while enjoying photo opportunities with authentic props. This tour is perfect for both dedicated fans and curious travelers seeking a unique adventure. - Duration: 5.5 hours, departing at 11:00am - Visit legendary LOTR locations like Fangorn Forest, Nen Hithoel and the Anduin River - Includes photos with the largest collection of licensed LOTR props - Medium fitness level required; suitable for adventurous spirits

Totally Personalized Private Experience! A scenic and adventurous day tour to Hanmer Springs serves blend of relaxation, adventure, and natural beauty that the area offers. Travelers can choose between relaxation at the hot springs or adventure activities like jet boating, hiking, access to private thermal pools or behind-the-scenes visits to local attractions, such as the Hanmer Springs Animal Park, hidden trails in the surrounding forest or enjoying a gourmet lunch at a local eatery. Our specialized guide provides you though information about the history of Hanmer Springs, local wildlife and the geology of the hot springs. We always welcome adventures on board with safe and comfortable trip with a customized itineraries based on travelers interest and time flexibility.

Totally Personalized Private Experience! Let’s explore New Zealand's Tallest Peak, Aoraki/Mount Cook’s Māori Significance, Tasman Glacier – New Zealand's Largest Glacier, Unique Flora and Fauna, Mountaineering History, Icebergs and Ice Caves, Panoramic Helicopter Flights, Photographer’s Paradise, beautiful lakes (Lake Tekapo & Lake Pukaki) and Lavender farm. We invite you to consider Kiwi Adventures Tour & Travel as an integral part of your next adventure. Our private tour offers something for everyone.

Totally Personalized Private Experience! Embark on an unforgettable journey to Kaikoura, renowned for its world-class whale-watching tours, particularly the unique opportunity to observe sperm whales. In addition to the whale-watching experience, you will have the chance to explore dolphins, seals, and various other wildlife. Furthermore, you may enjoy the scenic Kahutara River Walk, offering a brief yet picturesque stroll through the forested areas along the river.

Totally Personalized Private Experience! This tour offers a comprehensive exploration of the region, with a guide providing expert insights into the area's rich history and natural beauty. Key highlights of the tour are passing by Governor’s Bay, Banks Peninsula Views, Akaroa Village, Cheese Tasting, Catamaran Cruise for dolphins watching, Optional Lunch Upgrade. The guides are knowledgeable about local customs and history, ensuring an enriching experience throughout your day. Best Tour with reasonable guaranteed price.

"Explore Arthur’s Pass & Castle Hill like a local. We skip the crowds, hit secret spots like Lake Lyndon, and let you choose the pace—wild waterfall hikes, ancient limestone landscapes, or chill alpine lake views. Small group. Big views. Zero rush."

Kaikōura, whose name translates to ‘eat crayfish’ in English, is a small coastal town often overlooked by tourists. Caught between the Kaikōura Ranges - which in the winter are snowcapped and a sight to behold - and the turquoise waters of the Pacific Ocean (Te Moana-nui-a-Kiwa), this area is truly breathtaking. Known for the wildlife who love to inhabit this part of Aotearoa’s east coast, the town experienced significant damage and seabed uplift following a magnitude 7.8 earthquake in 2016. Almost 10 years on, Kaikōura has come a long way; even being named one of the most beautiful small towns in the world by luxury travel bible, Conde Nast Traveler, in 2023. You will be driven in comfort by our modern, comfortable Mercedes Sprinter (or similar) packed with the extras to make the trip that bit easier. Led by our fun, knowledgeable, and passionate tour guides, and including a Dolphin Encounter Tour (approximately 4 hours) this journey is one you will never forget.

See an enormous range of New Zealand highlights and have unforgettable experiences over 11 days on this tour. See both the North and South Islands, visit secluded natural spots and big cities, take in truly spectacular scenery, enjoy a thrilling range of adventure activities from jet boating to zip-lining, and much more. This is the perfect way to see the whole country in less than two-weeks, at an affordable price.

Totally Personalized Private Experience! Enjoy a tailored tour exclusively for private tour. Flexible itinerary that can adapt to your interests, pace, and preferences and Options to add one way scenic flights. Discover the breathtaking beauty of New Zealand’s Fiordland on a full-day journey from Queenstown to Milford Sound. Experience stunning alpine landscapes, serene lakes, cascading waterfalls, and a scenic cruise through the iconic fjord — all in one unforgettable adventure.

Experience the impressive Hochstetter Icefall on Aoraki / Mount Cook as it cascades down the mountainside. Explore the upper Tasman Glacier, with its neves and crevasses that have been formed over centuries. Make a spectacular glacier landing with breathtaking views of the 'Cloud Piercer' Aoraki / Mount Cook. Take in the expansive vistas of the Burnett Mountains and Mackenzie Basin.

As New Zealand's only fixed-wing Sunrise Flight Company we know just the path to take for the best sunbreak and views Watch the sun break from behind Mt. Aspiring, New Zealand’s highest mountain outside the Aoraki/Mt. Cook Region Take in the spectacular view of the Passchendaele Icefall, the Bonar Glacier, and the Olivine Ice Plateau Travel above places frozen in time that still look as they did 15,000 years ago Discover nature untouched as you fly over Mt. Aspiring National Park and see its hidden gems such as the Barrier Range and the head of the Arawhata River Experience the overwhelming sense of calm that comes with watching the start of a new day and walk away with memories that will last a lifetime

Experience the ultimate Kaikōura helicopter tour and witness New Zealand’s incredible marine life from above. Fly over the renowned Kaikōura Canyon to spot Sperm, Humpback, Southern Right, Orca, or even Blue whales, depending on the season. This extended scenic flight gives you more time to enjoy whale sightings and coastal views. Spot Dusky dolphins and New Zealand fur seals as you cruise along the shoreline. Land at a remote site only accessible by South Pacific Helicopters, where you'll take in breathtaking views of the mountains and ocean. This unforgettable whale watching and wildlife experience is perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

Epic Adventures to the Real Middle Earth and Back Again! Join our Lord of the Rings “Nerds” aka tour guides who have superior knowledge on all things “Rings”. We’ll take you to the original film locations and put YOU in the scene while narrating humorous and intriguing tales from the time of filming. Join us for your personalised journey through the real Middle Earth. Our scenic Half Day Tour includes visiting Skippers Canyon Lookout (weather permitting), Arrowtown, The Gibbston Valley and Lake Hayes. You will be able to enjoy Lord Of The Rings locations such as The Ford of Bruinen, The Gladden Fields, The Pillars of the Kings and More! This tour includes Morning or Afternoon Tea, Photos with Authentic Props as we have the largest selection of Authentic Licensed replica props! We also have copies of the original movie scripts and production call sheets, adding so much more depth to your Middle Earth experience!

Embark on an intimate small-group adventure from Queenstown to Milford Sound—one of Aotearoa’s most iconic natural wonders. This fully guided day trip is more than just a destination; it’s an experience crafted with care, comfort, and connection in mind. Travel in our premium Sprinter, designed for a relaxed pace and optimal viewing, with plenty of time to stop, explore, and soak up the landscape. From majestic alpine valleys to cascading waterfalls and native wildlife encounters, every moment of the journey is part of the magic. But the magic doesn’t end at the water’s edge. After cruising through the serene fjord, you will unforgettably return to Queenstown—via a scenic flight over Fiordland. Soar above towering peaks, ancient rainforests, and glittering lakes on a breathtaking aerial journey that offers a perspective few can witness. It’s the perfect finale to a day filled with wonder.

Approx 18 minute Twin Glacier Overflight! Sometimes the weather conditions (cloud, wind or rain) in Glacier Country don't allow us to get higher into the mountains to the snow landing sites, but we can still safely fly over the Franz Josef & Fox Glaciers. On these days, we often have less sun glare so get the beautiful blue colour in the glacial ice and some awesome photos! Flight times can vary depending on wind speed & direction on the day. Please note there is not a snow landing on this flight.

Witness the stunning blue ice and majestic landscapes on the Glacier Express Scenic Flight. This unforgettable alpine adventure begins in Glenorchy and takes you soaring over the shimmering Lake Whakatipu and near the heart of Mount Aspiring National Park. Touch down on fresh snow atop an ancient glacier and soak in panoramic views while capturing incredible images of New Zealand’s dramatic landscapes. Along the journey, expert pilots provide insights into the unique ecosystems and conservation efforts of the area. Ideal for adventure seekers and photography enthusiasts, this 40-minute experience offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to explore the untouched wilderness. - 40-minute scenic helicopter tour including a glacier landing - Discover the pristine beauty of Mount Aspiring National Park - Learn from experienced pilots - Complimentary return transport from Central Queenstown available