Top South Island Car Tours

See the glowworm caves of Te Anau on an underground adventure sure to charm visitors of all ages. An informative guide joins you on the tour, which starts with a cruise across Lake Te Anau. Then marvel at the shimmering illumination of thousands of glowworms as you glide through the quiet darkness of this magical underground world.

See the Franz Josef Glacier from the air on a helicopter flight above ice falls, snowfields, and crevasses. Touch down on a snowfield to see the icy landscape up close, and take in sweeping views across the maritime glacier. This helicopter tour departs from a helipad in Franz Josef township.

Located on the eastern shores of New Zealand’s South Island, Kaikoura is famous for the spectacular array of marine wildlife living off its shores—but to see the best of it, you have to take to the waves. On this tour, cruise into Kaikoura’s deep waters by speedy catamaran with running commentary throughout from your guide, and spot dolphins, seals, and sperm whales in their natural habitat.

Explore Queenstown on a private 4-hour discovery tour combining iconic sights and hidden gems. Begin at Queenstown Gardens, a serene lakeside oasis, then head to Skyline Queenstown Lookout for dramatic panoramic views. Visit Arrowtown, a charming gold-mining village with cobblestone streets and local shops. Continue to Kawarau Bridge Lookout, the birthplace of bungee jumping, offering thrilling views of turquoise waters and rugged cliffs. End at Lake Hayes, where mirrored reflections of surrounding peaks create a picture-perfect finale. Fully customizable, this private tour blends alpine scenery, history, and local life, providing a relaxed and unforgettable half-day journey through Queenstown’s most scenic and memorable spots.

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.

Skip the rush of buses and shuttles and enjoy a fully private, scenic transfer from Queenstown to Lake Tekapo, designed to turn your travel day into part of the adventure. With alpine lakes, heritage towns, and flexible photo stops along the way, you’ll experience the South Island at a relaxed, personal pace — not just pass through it. - Private one-way journey with no strangers or shared transport - Scenic stops at Lake Pukaki, Lindis Pass, and Cromwell’s historic precinct - Flexible timing for photos, short walks, and comfort breaks - Travel in modern, clean, and comfortable vehicles - Friendly local driver-guides sharing stories and regional insights - A stress-free alternative to long direct transfers or taxis - Door-to-door drop-off in Lake Tekapo Beautiful landscapes, fresh alpine air, and total comfort — this is the most enjoyable way to travel between Queenstown and Lake Tekapo.

*Lord of the Rings* fans will feel like they're on Middle Earth during this air tour. Fly above beautiful Queenstown, and see the spots filmed for the fictional places of Isengard, Amon Hen, Lothlorien; then land on a glacier alongside the Misty Mountains and get a sense of what it might be like to cross The Redhorn Pass.

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.

Fiordland is one of New Zealand’s most beautiful destinations, but self-driving through the landscape of snow-capped mountains, towering waterfalls, and emerald greenery can be challenging—and distracting. Eliminate the hassle when you travel with a small group by coach from Queenstown. Pass Lake Te Anau, the South Island’s largest lake, and enter the hand-carved Homer Tunnel on your way to Milford Sound, where you relax on a scenic nature cruise.

Ideal for thrill seekers, this experience lets you take a jet boat ride on the Shotover River. Experience adrenaline-fueled fun as the jet boat skims the water’s surface at high speed and fishtails into 360-degree spins. Hold on tight as the captain maneuvers the jet boat over rapids and through narrow canyons during one heart-pounding adventure you won’t soon forget.

On your scenic drive to Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park you will pass the famous cool aid looking Lake Pukaki and enjoy the view on New Zealands most beautiful road. Then the fun begins, trekking along the Hooker Valley Track at the base of Mount Cook, surrounded by mountains, glaciers, swing bridges and the flowing Hooker River. Hopefully you spot the native Kea bird too! Relax and enjoy the sights on your way back to Timaru, stopping at Lake Tekapo for the last look at the Southern Alps. Finish your day with a legendary Fairlie Bakehouse pie, fueling you up for a day in the mountains.

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.

Discover the charm of Akaroa, a beautiful seaside town known for its French heritage and stunning natural landscapes. Enjoy dolphin watching experiences featuring the rare Hector's Dolphins while soaking in breathtaking views of Lyttelton Harbour. Experience the local café culture in Little River and delight in culinary adventures tailored to all dietary preferences. This intimate tour provides you with comfortable private transport and expert guidance, ensuring a memorable journey through the scenic Canterbury region. - Dolphin watching experience featuring rare Hector's Dolphins - Explore Lyttelton Harbour and Little River's charming cafés - Private transport with a professional driver for a personalized experience - Tour duration: Full day, starting from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM

Take in the vast scale of Milford Sound from the air and water with a half-day trip that includes round-trip flights and a catamaran cruise. You’ll board a small plane that accommodates up to 13 passengers, lift off above the ridges and lakes of Fiordland National Park, then cruise Milford Sound all the way to the Tasman Sea. Watch for fur seals and penguins, and pass through the mists of Stirling Falls before meeting the pilot for the return trip to Queenstown.

This signature 6-day tour offers a perfect blend of travel per day covering the majority of top attractions in New Zealand's South Island, optional handpicked activities and accommodations. Experience the best of the South Island without the hassle of planning which attractions to visit, where to stay, what to do, all without driving long distances on your own. The itinerary ensures a relaxed experience. Enjoy the luxury of a private tour for your group. Benefit from a knowledgeable guide-driver and a vehicle exclusively for your group throughout the tour. Enjoy the flexibility to choose your own desired activities or opt for a range of exciting 9-10 optional activities, like a helicopter ride, TranzAlpine train ride, stargazing, jet boating, a Gondola ride, Kiwi park or Hot Pool Soak, Milford or Doubtful Sound cruise, a tour of Te Anau Glowworm caves, and Guided Kayaking or a Whale Cruise, or a Nature Cruise & an Alpaca farm visit. Choose to finish at Queenstown or Christchurch.

Embark on a scenic tour exploring Dunedin highlights, including the iconic Railway Station, and historic Octagon with photo ops at Signal Hill Lookout and Baldwin Street, the world's steepest street. Make your way out to Taiaroa head where you will stop in at the Royal Albatross Centre before starting the ultimate peninsula wildlife experience at The Opera. Explore the reserve and rehabilitation center which is home to the endangered yellow-eyed penguins, fur seals, sea lions, and several species of sea and forest birds. This tour offers a blend of history, stunning views, and wildlife encounters, summing up all of the goodness Dunedin has to offer.

Board the vintage TSS Earnslaw steamship or the modern Spirit of Queenstown for an evening cruise on Lake Wakatipu. Sail to Walter Peak High Country Farm for a buffet dinner featuring local meats, salads, vegetables, and desserts, then watch farm demonstrations or relax in the bar. The cruise returns to the same central Queenstown location. The TSS Earnslaw undergoes winter maintenance, when the Spirit of Queenstown is available instead.

Discover Christchurch in a Day – A Private Coastal & City Escape Experience the best of Christchurch in one unforgettable day. Begin your journey with a warm welcome at Lyttelton Port and a taste of She Universe artisan chocolate. Enjoy a relaxed breakfast at Beach Café in Sumner, overlooking the sparkling sea. Explore the boutique charm of The Tannery, then immerse yourself in the city’s vibrant heart – from the bustling Riverside Market to lush Botanical Gardens. Those seeking more can ride the historic tram or try the serene punting on the Avon River. Savor a delicious lunch of your choice, then take in breathtaking 360° views from the Christchurch Gondola before returning to port. Perfect for travelers who want a rich mix of coastal beauty, culture, and unforgettable moments – all in one day.

Experience the diverse geographical landscapes of the Milford Sound fjord by both land and water on this full-day, private tour from Te Anau. Start your journey by hopping aboard a cruise vessel and exploring the deep-blue waters around the fjord before joining your driver-guide to explore Fiordland National Park (Te Wahipounamu). A great way to explore without having to navigate yourself.

Escape the crowds with a fully private, customizable 6-hour day trip from Queenstown to Wanaka — including scenic stops in Arrowtown, Cardrona, and Cromwell. Discover historic gold towns, alpine roads, peaceful lakesides, and hidden local gems. Whether it’s spring blooms, summer sunshine, autumn colours, or snowy winter scenes, this journey offers something special year-round — all tailored to you. - A 7-hour private tour shaped around your interests and pace - Visit charming Arrowtown, the Crown Range, Wanaka town, and Lake Dunstan - Stop for optional walks, famous photo spots, or local food & wine - Travel in comfort with modern, clean vehicles - Hosted by friendly local guides who share real stories and insider tips - Flexible itinerary — skip or add stops anytime along the way - Ideal for couples, families, small groups, or solo explorers Breathtaking views, rich history, and total flexibility — this is how Wanaka and its surrounds are best experienced.

Take off on your scenic cruise down the Southern New Zealand coast to explore all the Catlins Forest Park has to offer. Starting at the Tunnel Beach, you will discover dramatic cliffs and a hand carved tunnel inviting you to the sandy shores. Next, go for a guided walk on the Awakiki Bush Track, a 2.7 km loop that showcases the diverse flora and fauna of Otago, with chances to spot native wildlife. Stop at Kaka Point for a kiwi classic of takeaways at the beach while keeping your eyes peeled for seals along the beach and dolphins in the water. Cap off your journey with a visit to the Nugget Point Lighthouse, where you can take in stunning panoramic views of the coastline and famous rock formations before enjoying the scenic drive back to Dunedin.

Experience Queenstown after dark on a private evening tour showcasing alpine scenery and romantic night views. Begin at Lake Wakatipu Waterfront, where sunset colors reflect across calm waters. Continue to the Skyline Queenstown Lookout for panoramic views of the town glowing beneath the night sky. Visit the tranquil Kelvin Heights Peninsula Lookout, a favorite spot for quiet moments and night photography across the lake. If time allows, enjoy a short detour to Arrowtown, where lantern-lit streets and historic charm create a storybook atmosphere. Fully customizable and unhurried, this private ride offers a peaceful, scenic way to experience Queenstown’s magic after sunset.

Explore the stunning sights of Christchurch in a convenient 4-hour private tour. Discover picturesque locations such as the Cashmere Hills Lookout, Sumner Beach, the Sign of the Kiwi, and the serene Christchurch Botanic Gardens. A knowledgeable local guide shares captivating stories about the city’s rich history and vibrant culture. This tour includes hassle-free hotel pickup and drop-off, making it an excellent choice for first-time visitors, families, or anyone looking to experience the essence of Christchurch in a short time. - Visit iconic scenic spots like Cashmere Hills Lookout and Sumner Beach - Enjoy engaging insights from a local guide about the city’s transformation - Comfortable transport with hotel pickup and drop-off included - Perfect for first-time visitors, families, and those with limited time