Top South Island Attractions & Museums

One man’s passion started it all. Invercargill businessman Bill Richardson loved trucks: so much so, he made them both his life’s work and his hobby. Southern tourism hub Transport World began after Bill’s daughter, Joc O’Donnell, decided to open his private collection to the public in late 2015 as Bill Richardson Transport World. The largest private collection of its type in the world, Bill Richardson Transport World is home to more than 300 vehicles, a wearable arts collection, children’s play zones, The Grille cafe and themed bathrooms fast becoming as famous as our vehicles. There is something for everyone. Open 10am to 5pm daily (last entry 4pm, excluding Christmas Day and Boxing Day).

Kids and adults alike will enjoy learning more about beautiful alpacas at an alpaca farm. This ticket gives you admission to the farm, where you can meet the furry creatures, take some photos, and enjoy the beautiful natural surroundings of Akaroa. Find out about their care, their friendly nature, and how alpacas are different from llamas.

Observe more than 20 native bird species—including New Zealand’s famous kiwi—with admission to Kiwi Birdlife Park in central Queenstown. See wildlife shows, nature exhibits, and daily keeper presentations, and catch a rare sight of the flightless kiwi in a darkened enclosure that mimics a nocturnal environment. Your admission ticket is valid for the entire day so you can explore the park at your own pace.

Book advance tickets to Willowbank Wildlife Reserve for guaranteed kiwi sightings and up-close access to native New Zealand species. Booking Willowbank Wildlife Reserve tickets online combines the convenience of advance planning with the flexibility to arrive at any time of day, making it easy to fit this wildlife experience into a full day of travel or sightseeing.

Pre-book tickets to Shantytown Heritage Park to explore a replica village from New Zealand’s 19th-century gold rush, where you can ride a steam train, pan for gold, and check out the working sluice gun and sawmill. Booking Shantytown Heritage Park tickets online combines the convenience of advance planning with the flexibility to arrive at any time of day, without being limited to a fixed tour schedule.

Guarantee your entry to New Zealand’s only castle with admission to Larnach Castle and Gardens, where you find beautiful antiques, dramatic architecture, and gorgeous views across the Otago Peninsula. Learn the story of the castle’s founding family and pause to explore a collection of native New Zealand plants. Pre-booking your tickets ensures a smooth visit, with the flexibility to explore at your own pace.

Learn about Antarctic landscapes, wildlife, and explorers with tickets to the International Antarctic Centre in Christchurch. Brave a harsh Antarctic storm, hear about life on the remote Scott Base, and spend some quality time with adorable little blue penguins. Enjoy Hägglund rides and 4D shows, and enter the “cuddle zone,” where you can meet fluffy huskies that explorers historically used to pull their Antarctic dog sleds.

Learn about the New Zealand native bird, the kiwi, with admission to the Franz Josef Wildlife Center. Tour the largest kiwi hatching facility on the South Island and opt to include a Backstage Pass Tour, where you'll get 30 minutes of access behind the scenes. Your ticket also includes access to the West Coast storytelling areas and an interactive glacier exhibition. Buy your passes in advance to guarantee your admission to this popular attraction, great for all weather and all times of year.

Save time and skip the lines with this combo ticket to Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre’s cutting-edge “Knights of the Sky” and “Dangerous Skies” exhibits. Learn about New Zealand’s wartime pilots and see their stories brought to life in sets created by the award-winning WingNut Films and Weta Workshop. Enthusiasts should make a beeline to the Centre’s aviation relics: immaculately preserved bomber planes and fighter jets from both World Wars.

Embark on a journey through time and space with this ticket to the Dark Sky Experience at Lake Tekapo. No need to wait until after dark to admire the night sky at this indoor exhibition which draws on Māori astronomy and recent discoveries to tell the story of our skies. This kid-friendly attraction is ideal for families, with multimedia exhibits and hands-on activities offering something to do for everyone.

Try your hand at mind-bending games and puzzles at Puzzling World in Wanaka. This prepaid admission ticket lets you plan your vacation in advance and have guaranteed admission to this popular attraction. Try out the world's first 3D Great Maze, visit the illusion rooms, and test your problem-solving skills.

Our most popular astronomy experience at the world-renowned astronomical research centre. Prepare for an awe-inspiring evening of discovery. Immerse yourself in the stunning surrounds, pristine night skies and sophisticated viewing technologies as our expert guides share the science and stories of our Southern Skies. High atop Mount John’s 1,029 metre peak, you'll be at the heart of the Southern Hemisphere's largest International Dark Sky Reserve. Every night sky reveals something new. The incredible Milky Way. Far-off planets. Star clusters, solar systems, constellations. You might even glimpse a distant galaxy. Don't miss New Zealand's premier stargazing experience. Exclusive to Dark Sky Project, the Summit Experience at Mt John Observatory is in partnership with the University of Canterbury.

The Dreamery is a must see experience, unique only to Queenstown. Every room is custom build to amaze and be interacted with. Plus will leave you with amazing dynamic videos and photos.

Explore the forest canopy from high above the ground with tickets to the West Coast Treetop Walk, where a steel platform stretches more than 1,475 feet (450 meters) through towering rimu and kamahi trees. Booking tickets in advance ensures you won’t miss out on visiting this spectacular site, where clear days mean views of the snowy Southern Alps and the Tasman Sea from the panoramic observation tower.

Board your choice of the TSS Earnslaw, a vintage steamship, or the modern Spirit of Queenstown for an evening cruise on scenic Lake Wakatipu. Arriving at Walter Peak High Country Farm, you’re treated to a sumptuous buffet dinner at the Colonel’s Homestead. Enjoy local meats, salads, vegetables, and desserts—nobody will go hungry. After dinner, see farm demonstrations or purchase a drink and simply relax in the bar.

The Monteith’s Brewing Company is one of New Zealand’s oldest beer-makers and a West Coast icon. Go behind the scenes at the company’s Greymouth brewery on this exclusive tour and learn about the history behind West Coast brewing. See how Monteith’s make their beer and cider and sample some of it for yourself during a hands-on beer-tasting lesson with tasting notes to help you out.

Putt‘N’Glow offers an indoor mini-golf adventure like no other in Queenstown. Navigate through 9 uniquely designed holes, each illuminated in vibrant neon colors, and enjoy 8 interactive mini-games, including a Frisbee Golf Hole and a Pool Table. Unlimited play means you can perfect your putt without any time constraints. With digital scorecards tracking your progress, you can easily keep the competition going among friends and family. Ideal for families, dates, or group outings, this glow-in-the-dark experience promises a fun-filled time indoors, perfect for any occasion.

Make the most of the pristine night skies over the Mackenzie Basin with this observatory experience tailored for first-time stargazers. Watch the night sky through one of Cowan’s Observatory’s telescopes, finding stars, constellations and other hidden secrets with the help of one of the observatory’s knowledgeable astronomy guides. With discounted tickets for visitors aged 17 and under, this is a great way to introduce children to the wonders of the Milky Way.

Travel along the spectacular Milford Road on a full-day Milford Sound tour from Te Anau. See native wildlife such as the endangered kea (an alpine parrot), seals, dolphins, and Fiordland crested penguins. Enjoy short walks to beautiful sights including the Chasm and Marian Cascade, and take a sightseeing cruise on Milford Sound. Includes entrance fees, boat cruise, morning tea, and hotel transfers.

Treat your senses to a fun challenge at the Odyssey Sensory Maze in Queenstown. Your admission ticket gives you access to the maze, which generally takes 20-30 minutes to complete, although you can spend as much time as you like. Find your way through dark spaces and physical obstacles created by lighting, sound, and room design. An ideal activity for older kids and adults of all ages.

Get ready for an adventure or a relaxing day in the mountains! Explore Mt Cook on a fully guided, small-group tour from Queenstown, with free time to hike, fly, or simply unwind. Highlights: • Mt Cook & Aoraki National Park • Lake Pukaki • Kawarau Gorge, Lindis Pass, the Southern Alps • High Country Salmon (time dependent) • Free time for activities & walks Enjoy approximately three hours of free time at Mt Cook to make your day as adventurous or relaxed as you choose: hike alpine trails, soar above glaciers on a scenic flight, or unwind at the Hermitage Hotel with a hot chocolate, soaking in the views. Make memories that last a lifetime. ***PLEASE NOTE: The Hooker Valley Track is currently closed beyond Müller Lookout (located between the first and second swing bridges) while the Department of Conservation replaces one of the bridges. This scenic section still offers stunning views and a rewarding hiking experience. The full track is expected to reopen in Autumn 2026.***

Cruise from Queenstown to Walter Peak High Country Farm and venture out on horseback with an expert guide. You'll board a Queenstown Lake Cruise for a round-trip ride across Lake Wakatipu then have morning or afternoon tea at the Colonel’s Homestead. Numbers are limited for a small-group experience on the horse trek, with views of the Remarkables mountain range.

Discover Christchurch's true spirit with The Nature's Trail! Our immersive city tour offers more than just sightseeing. Knowledgeable local guides share deep insights into Ōtautahi's rich history, unique culture, and its inspiring journey of recovery and innovation following the 2011 earthquake. We take you to key sites: experience panoramic views from the Christchurch Gondola, explore the wonders of the International Antarctic Centre, delve into aviation history at the Air Force Museum, and soak up the vibrant atmosphere at the Avon River Food Market (Riverside Market). Witness firsthand the city's incredible transformation, its creative urban design, and its resilient heart. The Nature's Trail offers a unique and engaging journey through a city reborn, connecting you to its powerful story. Join us to explore the highlights and understand the soul of Christchurch. NOTE : Tickets For Any activites are not included .