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Top South Island activities

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Mount John Observatory Stargazing Experience, Tekapo

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.

Mount John Observatory Stargazing Experience, Tekapo

1 hour 45 minutesFree Cancellation

Te Anau Glow Worm Caves Tour

Te Anau Glow Worm Caves Tour

2 hours 15 minutesFree Cancellation

Heli Hike Fox Glacier

The Fox Glacier is widely considered among New Zealand’s most impressive natural attractions—but it’s impossible to appreciate its beauty from ground level. On this tour, take to the skies by helicopter for panoramic views over the glacier, and trek deep into the icy wilderness with your guide—where the forces of nature work their magic. With safety kit and crampons included, see the best of the Fox Glacier up-close.

Heli Hike Fox Glacier

4 hoursFree Cancellation

Jet boating on the Shotover River | Queenstown

KJet Queenstown Jet Boat Ride on the Kawarau and Shotover Rivers

1 hourFree Cancellation

Likely to Sell Out

Stargazing Experience at Cowan's Private Observatory

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.

Stargazing Experience at Cowan's Private Observatory

1 hour 30 minutesFree Cancellation

Skip the Line: Franz Josef Wildlife Center Ticket with Optional Backstage Pass

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.

Skip the Line: Franz Josef Wildlife Center Ticket with Optional Backstage Pass

Premium Milford Sound Tour, Cruise & Lunch from Te Anau

A Milford Sound cruise is a must-do activity in southern New Zealand, but getting there independently can be stressful because of the rugged mountain roads. This full-day tour from Te Anau includes a hotel pickup and picnic lunch, so you don’t need to pack your own. Watch the views rather than the road by going with a guide and driver. See many spectacular sights along the way, including Mirror Lakes.

Premium Milford Sound Tour, Cruise & Lunch from Te Anau

7 hoursFree Cancellation

Special Offer

Premium Milford Sound Small Group Tour & Cruise from Queenstown

Travel from Queenstown to the UNESCO World Heritage–listed Milford Sound on an easy day trip. Enjoy live commentary along the way, and many scenic photo stops. At Milford Sound, don’t worry about waiting in lines as tickets are included. Admire views of waterfalls and Mitre Peak from your cruise. Refuel with a tasty picnic lunch in a scenic location. The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off from listed locations for added convenience.

Premium Milford Sound Small Group Tour & Cruise from Queenstown

13 hoursFree Cancellation

Remarkable Shotover Canyons

Shotover River Extreme Jet Boat Ride in Queenstown

25 minutesFree Cancellation

Special Offer

Cruise the Milford Sound fiord on a two hour nature boat cruise.

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.

Milford Sound Premium Small Group Tour & Cruise from Queenstown

13 hoursFree Cancellation

Top Attractions in South Island

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Reflection of the mountains in Milford Sound, New Zealand

Attractions

Milford Sound

Fiordland National Park

Attractions

Fiordland National Park

Mirror Lakes

Attractions

Mirror Lakes

The Mitre Peak iconic landmark in Fiordland National Park, New Zealand.

Attractions

Mitre Peak

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