Top South Island Sightseeing Tours - page 6

There are so many Lord of the Rings-related sights to take in across the area surrounding Queenstown that it’s tough to know where to start when adventuring solo. Enjoy an in-depth journey exploring filming locations across the region on this full-day small-group tour, including Lake Hayes, Paradise Valley, and Gibbston. Includes the chance to snap photos with replica props from the movies.

New Zealand’s fantasy landscapes have long enchanted photographers and filmmakers, and now’s your chance to capture your very own postcard-worthy shots. Accompanied by a professional photographer, this private full-day tour from Queenstown offers spectacular views of natural wonders like Skippers Canyon, Lake Wakatipu, and the Remarkables Range, as well as "The Lord of the Rings" filming locations, historic gold mines, and heritage sites.

Get aerial views of Franz Josef Glacier on this seriously scenic helicopter flight, including a 2-minute snow landing. Take fantastic photos of the pinnacles and sheer crevasses as you pass parts of the glacier and mountains you couldn’t access any other way. Multiple departure times throughout the day make for a flexible outing, and you'll learn more about the national park and its mountains as you fly above them.

Ride through the Gibbston Valley on a self-guided bike or e-bike tour from Queenstown that includes everything you need for a day of exploring. With a van to take you to the start and meet you at the finish, you can choose the distance you ride. Stop at the many wineries and other boutique food producers along the route, and admire the beautiful views as you pedal.

Explore the magic of Milford Sound on our, unforgettable Milford Sound Day Tour! Discover New Zealand’s pristine beauty as you journey through Fiordland's rugged landscapes, awe-inspiring peaks, and glistening waters. Our carefully curated tour combines the thrill of adventure with moments of serene relaxation, showcasing the unparalleled wonders of this World Heritage site. You’ll be transported in comfort with breathtaking scenic stops along the way, guided by passionate locals who share insights into the area’s geology, history, and wildlife. Capture sweeping views of waterfalls cascading down towering cliffs and glistening fiords that define Milford Sound’s untamed allure. You also have a chance at encountering New Zealand’s iconic seals, playful dolphins, and diverse bird species. Join us for a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and let the magic of Milford Sound create lasting memories on this extraordinary day tour. Perfect for nature lovers, families, and adventurers alike!

Discover Dunedin City and the Otago Peninsula on this small-group tour of the area's highlights. Walk up the world’s steepest street, explore the picturesque botanic gardens, and admire grand city architecture. Enjoy a scenic drive around the Otago Peninsula, followed by a guided tour at the Royal Albatross Centre, including a short documentary, talk, and a walk to the viewing platform to observe albatrosses up close.

Experience the charm, culture, and beauty of Christchurch on a guided day tour through New Zealand's Garden City. Enjoy panoramic views stretching from the coastline across Christchurch and the Canterbury Plains to the Southern Alps, offering a unique perspective of the region's stunning natural beauty. Along the way, discover the stories and heritage that have shaped the city, with fascinating local commentary and excellent photo opportunities. The tour also includes a visit to the Greenstone Shop, where you can learn about New Zealand pounamu (greenstone) and browse authentic local products. A perfect introduction to Christchurch, combining the city's highlights, culture, and spectacular scenery in one memorable experience. Join your local and knowledgable guide and feel good supporting a small local family owned business.

Get ready for a mountain biking adventure. Climb to Grants Peak on your speedy e-bike. From the peak, enjoy 360 degree views of Queenstown’s natural landscape, including the Remarkables and Coronet Peak. You’ll learn all about High Country farming, and the Māori myths and legends that make up Queenstown’s heritage, before zipping back down to Frankton.

Explore the landscapes that featured in “The Lord of the Rings” movies on this small-group full-day tour. Traveling in a 4-wheel drive enables access to remote locations in the Queenstown area. Get out into the wilderness in the morning, with the chance to dress up in movie costumes and pose with props. Return to town for lunch, then spend the afternoon checking out more sites around Queenstown.

The Kepler Track is one of New Zealand’s Great Walks, running from the shores of Lake Te Anau to Lake Manapouri and back via majestic alpine vistas. Start your trek off with this private water taxi across Lake Te Anau to Brod Bay. From there, stroll back to Te Anau along the lake’s limestone bluffs or, for more of a challenge, hike up Mount Luxmore, a summit with impressive views of Te Anau basin.

Enjoy an easy introduction to Dunedin, whose compact city center is best toured on foot. Even visitors short on time can fit in this one-hour private tour. Admire the Victorian architecture and urban planning of the Octagon, learn more about Dunedin history at the impressive St. Paul’s Cathedral, and take plenty of photos of the beautiful Dunedin Railway Station.

Discover the breathtaking beauty of Earnslaw Burn, home to a stunning hanging glacier, vibrant blue ice, and cascading waterfalls. As the only company permitted to land at this hidden gem, Heliworks provides exclusive access to this remarkable destination. Experience panoramic views over historic Skippers Canyon and rugged schist slopes, making this helicopter tour a must for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike. Whether you visit in summer, when waterfalls flow abundantly, or in winter, when the glacier is capped in fresh snow, each visit promises an unforgettable spectacle of nature’s wonders. - Exclusive landing rights at the stunning Earnslaw Burn glacier - Scenic flight over Skippers Canyon and historic gold mining sites - Spectacular views of seasonal waterfalls and vibrant blue ice - Ideal for adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts alike

This 20-minute scenic helicopter flight takes you soaring above Franz Josef Glacier with a snow landing at the top — the perfect opportunity to get up close to a glacier in the South Island. You’ll be captivated as you lift off and fly up and over towering ice formations before a soft landing in a snowfield. Admire Mt Cook/Aoraki, New Zealand’s highest peak, from the glacial summit.

Soar above the clouds and majestic mountain peaks of Mt. Aspiring and Fiordland national parks for a truly bird’s-eye perspective of New Zealand’s celebrated alpine scenery. On this compact scenic flight from Queenstown, enjoy views of at least five major glaciers, each lesser-known than the heavily visited Fox and Franz Josef glaciers further north. This flight also showcases the deep, densely forested fiords of Milford Sound.

**For Guaranteed snow landings all year round, please book our Mt Cook: Ski Plane & Helicopter Glacier flight** Experience Mount Cook National Park from the sky. Enjoy a 25-minute scenic adventure that includes an alpine landing amongst the mountains. Have exceptional views of Aoraki (Mt Cook) and the surrounding snow-capped mountain ranges right from take off. Be captivated throughout the entire flight. Explore the valleys and peaks of the national park. Journey through the Tasman Valley and over a breathtaking blue glacier lake. Experience an alpine landing in the Southern Alps. Disembark the aircraft and enjoy the elevated alpine landscape before returning to the helicopter to fly back to Mount Cook Airport. Your expert pilot will offer informative and interesting commentary throughout the flight to ensure you receive the best possible experience. *Snow landings occur approx. 75% of the year, however due to seasonality, snow landings cannot be guaranteed all year round.

Discover Milford Sound on the original small-group glass-roof tour from Queenstown with Altitude Tours. Travel in a custom-built Mercedes Sprinter featuring an expansive glass roof, panoramic windows, leather seats, Wi-Fi and USB charging. With a maximum of just 15 guests, enjoy a relaxed, personalised experience away from the crowds. Your knowledgeable local guide will share fascinating commentary, local history and hidden gems as you journey through Fiordland National Park, stopping at iconic viewpoints and scenic locations along the spectacular Milford Road. A freshly prepared packed picnic lunch is included to enjoy during the day. In Milford Sound, board a small-group nature cruise and experience towering peaks, cascading waterfalls and native wildlife, including seals, dolphins and, if you're lucky, the rare Fiordland crested penguin. This is Milford Sound at its most personal and unforgettable.

Be introduced to one of New Zealand’s Great Walks without having to do the whole thing on a morning or afternoon guided hike on a portion of the Routeburn Track. After a pickup from central Queenstown, head into the mountains of Mt. Aspiring National Park. Follow your guide at a relaxed pace through lush forests and experience the tranquility of the Routeburn River and its waterfalls along the way.

Photograph spectacular locations around Queenstown, the Southern Lakes, and Central Otago on a half-day private photography tour. Your guide is a passionate landscape photographer, who provides creative advice and shows you how to get the most from your camera. Customize the morning or afternoon’s schedule to suit your interests and the conditions on the day.

Learn to take beautiful landscape photos in magical surroundings with this half-day photography tour. Start your tour in charming Queenstown, getting out and taking a range of shots before making your way to the dramatic Skippers Canyon. Here you will be able to take some sunset photos before returning to your Queenstown accommodation.

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.

There are so many filming locations attached to the Lord of the Rings movies to explore near Queenstown that it can be tough to know where to start. Discover far more than you could alone on this full-day small-group tour, while learning facts that you won’t find in guidebooks. Take in Mavora Lakes, Fraser’s Beach, Te Anau, and much more.

Perfect for photography lovers, enjoy a full-day private photography tour in Queenstown and the surrounding area. Start your day in charming Queenstown and then head further afield. The exact itinerary is up to you, but possible destinations include Arrowtown, Glenorchy, Wanaka, Skippers Canyon and more. Your guide is a local photographer, so will be able to give you lots of advice on how to get the best shots.

Spend a day experiencing the best of Dunedin and the Otago Peninsula without having to rent a car on a private guided tour. Enjoy a flexible itinerary with stops at Baldwin Street, Signal Hill, Otago University, Dunedin Railway Station, and the Royal Albatross Centre on the windswept Otago Peninsula. Hotel or port pickup transfers from Dunedin or Port Chalmers are included for your convenience.

Get to know the story of Christchurch and see its key landmarks in just a few short hours with this walking tour. Visit major sights, such as the Christchurch Cathedral, the expansive Botanic Gardens, the Cardboard Cathedral (the temporary replacement for the main cathedral after the earthquake) and much more. Your guide will explain the history of this region and share fascinating local stories.