Top South Island Eco Tours - page 2

In other parts of the world, it may take several days to trek to places as beautiful as the Rob Roy Glacier, but we offer this experience in a World Heritage Area, in just one day! Our experienced local guides are with you from pick-up to drop-off, offering their knowledge of the area, it's history, flaura & fauna. The day begins with a scenic drive around Lake Wanaka into the Matukituki Valley. After driving through several fords, we arrive at Raspberry Hut. From here, this guided hike begins along the banks of the Matukituki River. We enter Mt Aspiring National Park via a swing bridge, crossing the river. The walk steadily climbs through New Zealand Beech Rainforest with a wide variety of flaura & fauna. After walking for 2.5 hours, the forest drops away and we enter open ground. Here the beauty of Rob Roy Glacier unfolds. Take time to relax and enjoy one of the best views Mother Nature offers, whilst enjoying a gourmet packed lunch!

Get the cameras ready for one of the best glacier experiences in New Zealand. Climb up the Franz Josef Glacier, crossing the main divide at Centennial Hut to land on New Zealand’s longest glacier, the Tasman Glacier. Take in breath-taking views of Mount Tasman and Aoraki Mount Cook, rich with uninterrupted scenery you have to see to believe. Then hop back onboard, cross back over Climber Col Pass and enjoy the spectacular views of Franz Josef Glacier before arriving back at Franz Josef Heliport.

During this half-day nature cruise in the Marlborough Sounds, enthusiastic marine biologists point out wildlife including New Zealand fur seals and several species of dolphins: Hector's, bottlenose, and dusky. Spot rare seabirds and learn about the history between Cook and the Māori people of Aotearoa while you’re treated to refreshments on board. Board in Picton and travel up Queen Charlotte Sound to difficult-to-reach Motuara Island and Ship Cove.

Experience Wānaka from another angle with a cruise across Lake Wānaka to remote Mou Waho Island Nature Reserve. Make an eco-friendly impact by planting a native tree before you leave. Opt to take a guided bush walk to reveal Mou Waho’s hidden secret: another lake, nestled atop the island, with panoramic views of Wānaka and the Southern Alps. Enjoy hot drinks and snacks surrounded by spectacular alpine scenery.

The deep waters, soaring cliffs, and thundering waterfalls of Milford Sound are spectacular from all angles, and this half-day tour by air and boat takes in all the highlights. Enjoy thrilling aerial views of the Fiordland National Park on a round-trip flight from Queenstown, and marvel at Mitre Peak, Bowen Falls, and Mount Pembroke on a scenic Milford Sound cruise. Hotel pickup and drop-off, and lunch are included for a truly seamless experience.

Situated on the picturesque shores of Lake Whakatipu, Walter Peak High Country Farm is the perfect place to spend a relaxing few hours. Immerse yourself in nature and learn about conservation throughout New Zealand. Begin your trip with a 45 minute cruise aboard the Vintage TSS Earnslaw, an integral part of Queenstown’s pioneering history and to this day a Queenstown icon. You will be greeted by our rural host, who will give you a tour of the stunning Restaurant Garden and showcase the beautiful native plants. Sample fresh produce straight from the veggie beds and orchard! Next savour a delicious garden platters made with with ingredients just harvested during your visit. This is the perfect adventure for those who want to give back to the environment while immersing themselves in New Zealand’s native scenery. You will then have the opportunity to have a hands on role in Walter Peaks land restoration project by planting a native tree or shrub from our nursery.

Experience the best of Dunedin and the Otago Peninsula without trailing around after a large group when you take an easy small-group shore excursion from Port Chalmers. See city highlights—such as the University of Otago, the Dunedin Railway Station, and Olveston House on a guided tour featuring all original furnishings—as well as Larnach Castle gardens on the peninsula. Note that entrance to the castle interior is not included.

This tour is a unique option if you are looking to make the most of your time while visisting Port Chalmers by cruise ship. It offers a combination of scenic ferry transport to Otago Peninsula, The popular OPERA Eco Sanctuary and Yellow Eyed Penguin rehabilitation centre, Glenfalloch Woodland Gardens and Dunedin City sights and drop off. Its a tour that covers it all and saves on travel time by combining ferry and coach.

Hike around Lake Matheson while learning more about the area’s ecology on a private nature walk. With a guide in the lead, you can focus on the scenery and on learning about the area's flora, fauna, and unique ecosystem. Admire the reflections of Mt. Tasman and Mt. Cook in the glassy surface of the lake. Evening departures give the best chance of calm conditions for the best reflections.

Admire the natural wonder that is Milford Sound on a nature cruise that lets you soak up the scenery from the water. Glide past granite walls, glacier-fed waterfalls, and stunning Mitre Peak on a spacious catamaran to avoid the crowds. Enjoy great photo ops of this famous South Island attraction situated within Fiordland National Park, and be on the lookout for Fiordland crested penguins and bottlenose dolphins.

Swap the cruise port for the Otago countryside on a half-day shore excursion that covers Dunedin and the Otago Peninsula. Your sightseeing tour covers city-center highlights, such as the Dunedin Railway Station, then travels to the wildlife-filled peninsula, stopping en route at scenic lookouts and for a beachside view of basking sea lions. Enjoy personalized attention from your guide on this small-group shore excursion with port transfers.

Leave bustling Queenstown behind for the scenic beauty of Skippers Canyon on a small-group half-day 4WD tour of the gorge. An experienced guide traverses the rugged roads through the canyon, which you might feel nervous navigating alone. Stop for outstanding views over the Wakatipu Basin and Shotover River. Stop at Skippers School for morning or tea with homemade cheese and refreshments.

Experience a seasonal one-hour guided tour of the lavender fields from late November to mid-February. The story of our lavender farm is shared as you walk amongst 5,000 plus lavender plants. The opportunity to purchase lavender products is available, as is the chance to try our famous Lavenade. At the end of the tour, you are free to wander through the lavender fields and on a short track to a picnic area amongst the forest. Facilities include an outdoor composting toilet. The income from our farm tours goes directly back into our conservation and regeneration programme. Booking is essential, no walk-ins. Contact us for a group tour bookings or for tours outside advertised hours.

Don’t miss out on the opportunity to take a Milford Sound cruise while visiting UNESCO-listed Fiordland National Park. Departing from Milford Wharf, this spacious boat cruises past Mitre Peak and gets close to numerous waterfalls cascading down steep-walled mountains rising out of the water. See Bowen Falls, Stirling Falls, and Seal Point while searching the deep fiord for marine life, including bottlenose dolphins and New Zealand fur seals.

New Zealand's only guided DAILY tour of the Sun! Discover the Sun like never before. Located just a 90-minute scenic drive from Christchurch, this unique daytime experience offers a safe, fascinating look at our nearest star, perfect for all ages and Akaroa day trips. You will observe sunspots, solar flares, and intricate surface activity in stunning detail through our specialized solar telescope. Our expert astronomer will guide you, sharing captivating facts and making this a hands-on, exciting introduction to astronomy. We use our cutting-edge ZWO Seestar S50 smart telescope to capture high-resolution images of the Sun live. These incredible digital photos are then shared with you instantly! Plus, easily snap your own stunning visuals directly through the telescope with our smartphone adapter. Leave with unique, Insta-worthy visuals you won't find anywhere else. This short, educational, and high-tech tour is ideal for all ages. Book your spot now for an unforgettable experience!

This Akaroa shore excursion takes you sightseeing in Christchurch via a scenic drive through the Banks Peninsula. See the Christchurch Botanic Gardens, Cathedral Square, and other city highlights before visiting the International Antarctic Centre, where you can learn more about the frozen continent. See penguins, feel the chill of Antarctic winds, and finish with a thrilling ride on an amphibious Hagglund vehicle.

Embark on an unforgettable journey along Kaikoura's stunning coastline. This small-group kayaking tour offers a unique opportunity to explore the region's natural beauty and encounter playful seals in their natural habitat. Paddle through crystal-clear waters, surrounded by majestic cliffs and towering mountains. Discover hidden coves and sea caves as you navigate the coastline. Keep your eyes peeled for dolphins and penguins, adding an extra touch of magic to your adventure. No kayaking experience is necessary. Our expert guides provide instruction and ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all. After your kayaking adventure, savor a delicious lunch at a charming cafe, where you can relax and soak in the stunning coastal atmosphere.

Embark on an expedition across New Zealand's South Island, commencing from the historic Christchurch Railway Station. Prepare for an unforgettable day of exploration aboard the renowned TranzAlpine Railway, renowned as one of the world's most scenic train journeys. Highlights: Panoramic Train Journey: Departing from Christchurch, indulge in sweeping vistas of Canterbury's plains and distant peaks. Otira Viaduct Lookout: Witness the Otira Viaduct, an engineering marvel spanning the rugged Otira Gorge, offering breathtaking views of the Southern Alps. Devil's Punchbowl Waterfall: Guided hike to witness the majestic Devil's Punchbowl waterfall, where crystal-clear waters cascade down sheer rock faces. Visitor Centre Exploration: Dive into the fascinating history and natural wonders of Arthur's Pass at the visitor center, uncovering insights into the region's flora, fauna, and Maori legends. Kea Encounter: Keep a lookout for the playful kea, the world's sole alpine parrot.

Totally Personalized Private Experience! Waipara Springs, founding winery and restaurant of the Waipara Region, was established in 1989 and remains an entirely owned and operated Family Estate located in the heart of the Waipara Valley, approximately 60 kilometers north of Christchurch, New Zealand. It stands as one of the founding wineries in the region and is now managed by the third generation of the family. We respect the importance of our customers and ensure that the service we provide is in keeping with their expectations. Waipara Springs is available and the perfect venue for all occasions including casual dining, group lunch bookings, corporate functions, weddings and wine tastings.

Explore the picturesque Marlborough wine region in a unique way with a horse-drawn carriage tour. This half-day experience takes you through the charming town of Renwick, where you will visit two family-owned wineries, tasting authentic Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc and more. Enjoy a delectable platter for lunch as you soak in the tranquil surroundings and rich wine heritage. Led by Emma and her Clydesdale, Duchess, this leisurely pace allows you to savor every moment and connection with the land. - Unique horse-drawn carriage tour through Marlborough vineyards - Visit 2 wineries with intimate cellar door experiences - Enjoy a delicious lunch platter during the tour - Perfect for wine lovers seeking a leisurely and authentic experience

Discover one of New Zealand’s most breathtaking natural wonders on this full-day adventure from Queenstown to Milford Sound and back. Relax in comfort as we journey through the stunning Fiordland landscapes, stopping for fresh coffee in Te Anau before entering the spectacular wilderness. Capture incredible photos at Eglinton Valley, where golden tussock plains meet towering mountains, and watch as the scenery transforms with every turn of the road. Enjoy a stop at the Mirror Lakes for that perfect reflection shot, and experience the thrill of driving through the historic Homer Tunnel into the heart of Fiordland. Once at Milford Sound, you will join a scenic cruise (additional cost) to get up close to towering waterfalls, Mitre Peak, and playful seals, making memories that will last a lifetime. This tour is perfect for travellers who want to experience the iconic Milford Sound in one comfortable, well-paced day, with opportunities to relax & explore.

Make the most of your limited time on land with a handy shore excursion from Akaroa Harbour through the Banks Peninsula and to Christchurch. Drive past city landmarks, including the Christ Church Cathedral that is being rebuilt after devastating earthquakes, and stroll through the Christchurch Botanic Gardens with a guide to tell you about the city’s history and culture. This is an easy way to discover Christchurch’s highlights without self-driving.