Top South Island Nature and Wildlife Tours - page 6

Be enchanted by Kaikoura’s marine life on this full-day dolphin-swimming tour from Christchurch without having to drive yourself there and back along winding coastal roads. In Kaikoura, a whale-watching paradise, board a sightseeing boat and jump into the Pacific Ocean with the provided wetsuit and snorkel. Swim alongside dusky dolphins in their natural habitat and enjoy the company of these graceful, curious sea mammals with help from your guides.

A visit to New Zealand is your best chance to see the yellow-eyed penguin, an endangered species native to the country. On this small-group tour, head to the Otago Peninsula to see yellow-eyed penguins, or hoiho penguins, in their natural habitat before exploring a nearby rehabilitation center to see some penguins up close while learning about local conservation efforts.

This guided stargazing tour combines the grandeur of Mt. Cook with a fascinating journey through the night sky. Using powerful telescopes, you’ll observe planets, star clusters, nebulae, and distant galaxies, all while learning from expert guides who will share the myths and science behind these cosmic phenomena. Your guides will take photos of you beneath the beauty of the Milky way galaxy- the perfect memento of your night under the stars. The Mt. Cook area provides an extraordinary setting, with the snow-capped peaks of the Southern Alps framing the sky, making this a stargazing experience unlike any other. A must-do in the Aoraki Mackenzie Dark Sky Reserve, a UNESCO-recognized site.

Explore the snow-capped mountains, lush forests, and waterfalls of Mt. Aspiring National Park on this thrilling half-day tour. Start with a scenic flight from Makarora over the Southern Alps, You’ll be dropped at a hiking trail beside the Siberia River. Hike at your own pace, for around 4–5 hours. Once you reach the Wilkin River, hop into a jet boat for an adrenaline-inducing ride back to the starting point.

See the sheer cliffs of Milford Sound from the air and water on this half-day tour from Queenstown by sightseeing plane and catamaran. Fly over Fiordland National Park, part of a UNESCO-listed landscape, then touch down at Milford Sound for a nature cruise. This tour is perfect for photography and wildlife watching, and hotel pickup and drop-off from centrally located Queenstown hotels is included.

Soak in the natural beauty of New Zealand with a full-day tour to Kaikoura from Christchurch. Start with transfer to the Coastal Pacific Train for the journey north to Kaikoura, then transfer to a sturdy boat for your whale-watching cruise. Have lunch afterward, then visit a New Zealand fur seal colony on the return drive to Christchurch.

This small-group tour makes it easy to visit the Punakaiki Blowholes and Pancake Rocks from Greymouth. Avoid the hassle of self-driving and enjoy the views along the incredibly scenic coast road. Learn more about the geological processes that formed the impressive natural attraction, and enjoy a gentle walk around the well-maintained track and boardwalks.

Cyclists who enjoy spending time in nature will love this easy shuttle and rental option. After a transfer from Queenstown to Arrowtown, get kitted out with a mountain bike or e-bike and helmet. With bike rental included, you won’t worry about whether your bike is suitable for the trails. A detailed map is included, so you won’t get lost, and you’ll have the freedom to cycle at your own pace.

Embark on an unforgettable journey through some of New Zealand’s most breathtaking landscapes with Cheeky Kiwi Travel. This two-day tour from Christchurch to Queenstown via Franz Josef offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore some of New Zealand’s most iconic landscapes and hidden gems. You’ll enjoy personalized service, small group sizes, and expert local guides who will ensure your journey is as informative as it is exhilarating. Book your adventure today and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Enjoy an informative short tour of the vineyards, winery, and wine cave at Gibbston Valley Wines. See how beloved Central Otago pinot noir wines are produced with behind-the-scenes access at the winemaking facility. Sample four premium wines and learn about the local varieties. This is a handy tour for travelers who are just passing through, or who don’t have much time in the region.

Visit "The Lord of the Rings" filming locations in and around Glenorchy, traveling by 4WD from Queenstown with a guide. This half-day tour includes stunning landscapes chosen by director Peter Jackson. See where famous scenes were filmed, the landscapes representing the Fortress of Isengard, Lothlórien, Ithilien Camp, and Forest of Amon Hen.

Wildlife lovers and outdoor enthusiasts will love the chance to swim with rare Hector’s dolphins so close to Christchurch on this full-day Akaroa tour. Admire views of scenic spots such as Lake Ellesmere on the drive out to Banks Peninsula. Enjoy free time in Akaroa and a cheese tasting at Barry's Bay before hopping onto your cruise boat. Wetsuits and snorkeling gear are provided for a comfortable swim with dolphins.

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.

On this full-day small-group shore excursion, tour Larnach Castle and look out for local birds and wildlife on a cruise. After a pickup from your cruise ship in Port Chalmers, admire the views on the drive around to the Otago Peninsula. Warm jackets and binoculars are available for your use while spotting royal albatross and New Zealand fur seals on the cruise. Learn more from your guide’s live commentary.

Embark on an exhilarating adventure as you explore the majestic peaks and awe-inspiring valleys surrounding Aoraki / Mount Cook. Fly over the lower Tasman Glacier and soar above the Liebig mountain range, taking in the towering peaks of the Southern Alps. Make an alpine landing to take in the breathtaking panoramic views.

Explore New Zealand’s only castle—Larnach Castle—on this half-day small-group tour around Dunedin. Hop aboard an air-conditioned minivan and discover some of the city’s most popular sights, from the steepest street in the world to New Zealand’s most photographed building, before enjoying coastal views of the Pacific Ocean from the scenic Highcliff Road.

Take in views of Mt. Cook (Aoraki) and the Southern Alps from a vantage point that most travelers miss on this small-group helicopter tour. Fly above the snow-capped peaks, taking in Fox Glacier, the Franz Josef Glacier, and much more before landing for a quick opportunity to explore the pristine wilderness on foot.

Follow gold rush trails, explore historic towns, and journey through breathtaking landscapes. This isn’t just a transfer, it’s an odyssey through the heart of Central Otago. Your day begins with a pickup in Queenstown, the adventure capital of New Zealand. From there, travel in comfort and style aboard our luxurious Mercedes-Benz vehicles as you leave the alpine landscapes behind and venture into a region shaped by pioneers, gold fever, and timeless beauty. Wind through dramatic gorges, past crystal lakes, and into historic settlements frozen in time. Along the way, discover hidden gems like charming, historic Clyde, and the hauntingly beautiful Blue Lake of St Bathans. In the highlands of Pukerangi, step aboard the legendary Taieri Gorge Train for a spectacular rail journey. As the train snakes through deep ravines, crosses towering viaducts, and dives into hand-carved tunnels, you’ll be immersed in one of New Zealand’s most iconic experiences, before arriving in Dunedin

The waters off the coast of Kaikoura play host to some of nature’s most majestic giants: sperm whales. Take in a stunning seascape while keeping an eye out for sperm, blue, and humpback whales; dolphins; orcas; and several other varieties of aquatic mammals on this small-group whale-watching flight over the shimmering waters.

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.

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.

Channel your inner Hobbit and enjoy outdoor adventure in the heart of New Zealand on this Hobbit barrel run rafting tour on the Pelorus River. Pull on your wetsuit and hop aboard your raft, then drift onto the Pelorus River — made famous in the 2013 movie "The Desolation of Smaug." Stop off at filming locations used in the making of the movie to hear behind-the-scenes stories.

With waterfalls cascading down mighty cliffs and some of New Zealand’s most impressive natural scenery, Milford Sound is one the South Island’s must-see destinations—but its remote location makes it hard to reach alone. On this tour, spin through the New Zealand countryside in comfort from central Queenstown with your guide. Admire panoramic views from your glass-roof, low-emissions coach, and cruise the calm waters with a picnic lunch included.

The rarest dolphins in the world live in Akaroa's waters, and you can get close on this eco-friendly sailing tour. Step back in time aboard the Fox II, a vintage wooden sailboat that’s over 100 years old and one of New Zealand's oldest working ketch boats. Glide quietly through the waters, looking out for dolphins, penguins, seals, and albatross but leaving them undisturbed for a memorable wildlife experience.