All South Island Tours &amp; Excursions in 2026 - page 54

Queenstown Private Heli Wine Tour - Heli & 3 Premium Wineries

5 hoursFree Cancellation

Discover the charm of Dunedin on this half-day tour led by local guides. Begin with a convenient ship pickup and delve into the city's rich history and vibrant culture. Stroll down the world's steepest street, take in panoramic views from Signal Hill Lookout, and explore the serene Botanic Gardens, the oldest in New Zealand. Capture a photo of the stunning Dunedin Railway Station and experience the lively atmosphere of the oldest university in the country. Enjoy free time in town to relax and explore on your own before returning to your ship. - Half-day tour showcasing Dunedin's iconic landmarks - Visit the world's steepest street and Signal Hill Lookout - Explore the historic Botanic Gardens with ample time for a stroll - Experience local student life at Dunedin's oldest university and free time in the city at your leisure.

Dunedin Half Day Tour Explore Iconic Sights and Local Culture

6 hoursFree Cancellation

An amazing high-country hiking experience for guests who would like the opportunity to explore the wild high-country landscape. Hike off the beaten path with stunning views over Marlborough. Our guides are a wealth of knowledge about high-country farming, animals and nature, they are able to tailor the hike to suit your individual or group. The day is beautifully catered, and we can cater for any dietary requirements.

from $118

Bespoke Guided High Country Hiking

5 hoursFree Cancellation

from $298

Lord of the Rings Mt Owen, Exit from the Mines of Moria

1 hour 30 minutesFree Cancellation

The pōwhiri, or welcome, is an important ritual in New Zealand’s Māori culture, inviting visitors as they arrive on their whenua (land). Experience a full pōwhiri, including the challenge and mihi whakatau (welcome speech), first-hand in Wānaka. Connect with Māori traditions in a way that you simply can’t through guidebooks and museums; learn more about the local iwi (tribe) and their responsibilities as custodians of the land.

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from $2,890

Per group

40 minutes to 1 hourFree Cancellation

Māori Whakatau Welcome

4.9

(79)

from $60

Golden Hour Scenic Flight Over Queenstown's Ski Fields

Witness the stunning beauty of Queenstown’s ski fields as the sun sets in a golden glow during this 40-minute scenic flight. Glide above the iconic peaks of Coronet Peak, Cardrona, and The Remarkables, with expert commentary from seasoned pilots who share local stories. This unforgettable experience offers breath-taking aerial views of snow-covered landscapes and alpine lakes, perfect for photography enthusiasts and winter sports lovers alike. Enjoy complimentary transport to and from your accommodation, making this tour an easy addition to your winter itinerary. - 40minute scenic flight showcasing Queenstown’s ski fields and alpine lakes - Ideal for capturing stunning sunset photos and planning your ski adventures - Complimentary transport provided from most local accommodations

Golden Hour Scenic Flight Over Queenstown's Ski Fields

1 hourFree Cancellation

Discover the beauty of Lake Te Anau on a 2 hour discovery cruise with Cruise Te Anau. Explore the spectacular entrance of the stunning South Fiord with an intimate group of up to 6 passengers, experiencing the dramatic gateway to this pristine wilderness. You’ll enjoy spectacular mountain views in Fiordland National Park and take a gentle 15-minute guided nature walk through the rainforest to the beautiful Hidden Lakes – a tranquil area perfect for those wanting to experience Fiordland’s natural beauty without the longer commitment. Relax while surrounded by breathtaking, unspoiled scenery as you cruise back through this section of the fiord, taking in waterfalls and dramatic landscapes at a leisurely pace. This accessible adventure offers the perfect introduction to Fiordland’s magic, right from Te Anau’s doorstep.

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from $292

Fiordland Adventures: 2-Hour Discovery Cruise in Te Anau

Fiordland Adventures: 2-Hour Discovery Cruise in Te Anau

2 hoursFree Cancellation

from $109

The first stop on this private half-day tour is at the Sign of Takahe (a Historic stone building), where you can enjoy scenic views and capture some memorable photos. Next, you'll head to the Sign of the Bellbird Scenic Reserve and take in breathtaking views of the Canterbury Plains and Lyttelton Harbour. Afterwards, you'll visit the Governors Bay Jetty, allowing you to explore the serene surroundings of the seaside settlement. Following the coastal road, the journey continues to Cass Bay, where there is time to relax over morning or afternoon tea In Lyttelton Township, you'll have some time to explore the quaint shops and appreciate the town's historic charm. The tour then takes you to the Evans Pass lookout, where you can learn about the operations of Lyttelton Port and its links to Antarctic exploration. The final stop is Sumner Beach, where you can wander through the charming village. The tour concludes with a drop-off at your accommodation or in the city centre.

1/2-day Christchurch Scenic Highlights (Private Tour)

4 to 5 hoursFree Cancellation

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from $256

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.

Likely to Sell Out

Kaikoura Kayaking Adventure Small Group Tour from Christchurch

Kaikoura Kayaking Adventure Small Group Tour from Christchurch

10 to 11 hoursFree Cancellation

Earnscleugh Castle is a Category 1 Heritage New Zealand-listed Jacobethan manor, its red-brick façade rising out of the Central Otago landscape just 5 minutes outside historic Clyde. Recently featured on Grand Designs New Zealand, and acclaimed for bringing the grand back into Grand Designs, it's a restoration story unlike any other. On this hour-long guided tour, owners Ryan and Marco lead you through the halls themselves, from gold rush ambition in the 1920s to decades of neglect, family feuds, and a four-year restoration that brought the castle back from ruin. You'll hear about the pioneers who built it, the decisions that shaped it, and the antique and modern touches that define it today. Set against the Fraser River and the Old Man Range, this is a chance to walk through a century of Central Otago history, told by the people who lived every bit of it. Guided tours - $50 per person Duration: 1 hour Minimum group size applies for private tours Hosted by the owners

from $528

Guided Tour of Earnscleugh Castle Heritage and History

Guided Tour of Earnscleugh Castle Heritage and History

1 hourFree Cancellation

from $30

Start your day at your Westport depot with a 9:00 am shuttle to Charleston, where you can grab a coffee or lunch for a picnic before beginning your 40 km ride back. This Grade 1–2 trail offers a mix of gentle sections and a few areas requiring care, winding through a stunning variety of landscapes. Cycle between the mountains and the coastline, taking in views of the majestic Paparoa Range, and explore the ever-changing scenery of kahikatea wetlands, pākihi, podocarp forest, and nīkau palms. With plenty of opportunities to pause and enjoy the surroundings, this ride combines scenic beauty, gentle challenge, and a true sense of the West Coast’s natural charm.

Kawatiri Coastal Day Ride

1 dayFree Cancellation

from $77

Likely to Sell Out

9 Day Kaka Christchurch to Christchurch Tour

9 days

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.

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from $2,529

Arthurs Pass Private VIP Alpine Vista Day tour

Arthurs Pass Private VIP Alpine Vista Day tour

9 hours 30 minutesFree Cancellation

from $965

Private Day Scenic Excursion to Akaroa/Christchurch ex Lyttelton

7 hoursFree Cancellation

This signature 6-day tour offers a perfect blend of travel per day covering the many of top attractions in New Zealand's North Island, optional activities and accommodations. Experience the best of the North Island without the hassle of planning which attractions to visit, where to stay, what to do, all without driving long distances on your own. Enjoy the luxury of a private tour for your group. Benefit from a knowledgeable guide-driver and a vehicle exclusively for your group. Enjoy the flexibility to choose your own desired activities or opt for a range of exciting 10–14 optional activities, including Auckland Museum or Waiheke Island hop-on hop-off exploration, scenic boating or guided kayaking, Hobbiton tour, Redwoods Treewalk, Agrodome & private soak or river rafting, geothermal valley & Māori cultural experience, jet boating, Waitomo Glowworm Caves, black water rafting or Aranui & Ruakuri Caves, and Hamilton Gardens. Start from Auckland or Queenstown and finish in Auckland.

from $950

Per group

Special Offer

6 Day Northern Loop New Zealand Private Tour

6 Day Northern Loop New Zealand Private Tour

6 daysFree Cancellation

Book your Private Transfer from Milford Sound Cruise Port to Queenstown Airport (ZQN). Don't go through all the hassle of waiting in a long taxi or shared shuttles queues and use our private, door to door airport/port transfer. Your driver will be waiting for you at a scheduled time and you will travel comfortably to your destination. • Meeting with a Nameplate • We track your Flight • Door-to-door Service • No Hidden Charges • Clean cars & Professional drivers

Private Transfer from Milford Port to Queenstown Airport (ZQN)

Private Transfer from Milford Port to Queenstown Airport (ZQN)

3 hours 40 minutesFree Cancellation

from $660

The Vineyards Nobody Else Can Show You The great wine regions of the world have two kinds of producers — those who sell to tourists and those who sell to collectors. We take you to the second kind. Every vineyard on this tour has been personally handpicked by Aaron. They produce between 800 and 50,000 bottles per year. They do not advertise. Buses cannot reach them. And they do not open their cellar doors to just anyone. Because you are with us, they will open them for you. Choose your own journey through 4 extraordinary venues between Cromwell and the Gibbston Valley. At each one, you will be welcomed not as a tourist but as a serious buyer — by the winemaker, the owner, or a trained sommelier who knows every vine in the vineyard. and because great wine deserves to be enjoyed at home as much as on tour, every single venue can arrange international delivery directly to your door. Arrive home to find the best of Central Otago waiting in your hallway.

Private Otago Wine Tour and Gourmet Lunch from Queenstown

Private Otago Wine Tour and Gourmet Lunch from Queenstown

7 hoursFree Cancellation

from $603

Enjoy a half-day guided walk on Banks Peninsula, a spectacular extinct volcano only 30 minutes from Christchurch. Experience world-class views and see some of New Zealand's most stunning coastlines with an experienced local guide. Godley Head is a beautiful coastal track with breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and also Lyttelton Harbour. It includes historic landmarks from WW2, an Antarctic cabin, and quaint little beaches to boot. The walk is 4 km and takes around 2 hours to walk, plus plenty of time to stop and enjoy the scenery. The track can be adapted by the guide on the day. With your own guide, you can set the pace. Both morning and afternoon walks are available, see the highlights and be back in Christchurch in time for lunch or dinner.

Private Half-Day Godley Head Coastal Hike from Christchurch

Private Half-Day Godley Head Coastal Hike from Christchurch

4 hoursFree Cancellation

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from $307

Spend six unforgettable hours fishing on Lake Wānaka, one of New Zealand’s most iconic alpine lakes. With expert guidance and top-quality gear, you’ll target trout and salmon using a variety of techniques, trolling, harling, spinning, jigging, and downrigging. This extended trip lets you explore more remote fishing spots, far from the usual locations, for a deeper and more rewarding experience. Our boat is equipped with a quiet, eco-friendly electric trolling motor, allowing you to glide peacefully across the lake and soak in views of Roys Peak, Mount Aspiring, and Treble Cone. With small group sizes (max 6 passengers), complimentary snacks and cold non-alcoholic drinks, and the option to keep your catch (cleaned and vacuum-packed for you), this is the ideal charter for anglers who want space, time, and scenery.

Shared 6-Hour Fishing Charter on Lake Wānaka

Shared 6-Hour Fishing Charter on Lake Wānaka

6 hoursFree Cancellation

With wind in your hair, roof down & breathtaking landscapes ahead, this picnic for 2 is your ultimate open - air trip in comfort & style. Guided by your experienced driver, this remarkable scenic ride with 4 stops & picnic included is the perfect way to escape the crowds & ride through the nature at its finest. Starting in Queenstown, you will be comfortably driven in a BMW convertible towards Lake Hayes where you can enjoy a variety of selected picnic foods, drinks, deserts, chocolates and fresh fruit. Prepared with love on a picturesque spot by the lake. Allow 30 minutes for the leisurely picnic until the next take off to Arrowtown where we can either stroll through by car or you can explore and sightseeing on your own. Time enough for some memorable pictures before we heading to Arthur’s Point to see some fantastic views from Edith Cavell Bridge where the Shotover Jets roaring past. Wakatipu Heights is our last stop - a photographer’s paradise and the perfect AOTEROA picture

(1)

from $467

Convertible Picnic Tour Queenstown

1 hour 40 minutesFree Cancellation

from $114

Luxury Christchurch Airport/Port Arrivals and Departure Transfers

Experience a seamless arrival at Christchurch Airport in New Zealand with our exclusive Arrival Transfer service. Glide off the plane and into luxury with a BMW sedan or SUV awaiting your arrival. Our professional chauffeurs ensure a stress-free transition, assisting with luggage and providing a warm welcome to Christchurch. Relax in the plush leather seats as you're chauffeured to your destination, enjoying the scenic views along the way. With top-of-the-line BMW vehicles, you'll enjoy unmatched comfort, safety, and style throughout your journey. Say goodbye to the hassle of public transportation or taxi queues – our service ensures you start your Christchurch adventure promptly and in elegance. Whether you're in town for business or leisure, our Arrival Transfer service sets the tone for a memorable stay. Elevate your travel experience and book your Christchurch Airport Arrival Transfer today.

Luxury Christchurch Airport/Port Arrivals and Departure Transfers

1 minute to 3 hoursFree Cancellation

from $126

Per group

10 Days and 9 Nights New Zealand South Island Tour

10 daysFree Cancellation

from $3,919

2 Day Kaikoura Whale and Dolphin Tour from Christchurch

A great way to experience the best of Kaikoura's sealife! This two-day tour takes you north from Christchurch to the coastal town of Kaikoura; a bustling township with many cafes, restaurants and shops as well as incredible wildlife. Kaikoura is one of the only places in the world where whales and dolphins can be encountered every day! When you arrive, head out on a magical swimming encounter with Dusky Dolphins. On day 2, experience the world-famous Kaikoura Whale Watch tour before heading down the scenic coast back to Christchurch. This is an Independent coach tour, where you travel on a combination of touring coaches and sightseeing services with commentary and/or point to point coaches which may not have commentary. You will be with different people on each part of the tour and different drivers. You have free time to explore on your own and are free to choose where and when to eat, meals are not included unless specified.

2 Day Kaikoura Whale and Dolphin Tour from Christchurch

2 daysFree Cancellation

from $627

Explore the stunning Kaikōura coast on this full-day small-group tour from Christchurch. We'll pick you up from your hotel or a central meeting point, then set off along State Highway 1, where dramatic cliffs, sweeping ocean views, and rolling farmland create the perfect backdrop for a day of adventure. Stop along the way for morning tea before arriving in Kaikōura for lunch. Then stroll the scenic Kaikōura Peninsula Walkway, visit seal colonies, or explore the charming township at your own pace. For wildlife enthusiasts and thrill-seekers, upgrade to include a whale-watching cruise, dolphin or albatross encounter, scenic flight, or an eco-zipline adventure. *Please note: Independent third-party providers operate these activities, and availability is not guaranteed, particularly for last-minute bookings. Our standard tour cancellation policy applies. After your Kaikōura adventure, relax on the scenic drive back to Christchurch, where you'll be dropped at your hotel or in the city.

Likely to Sell Out

Visit Kaikōura from Christchurch (small group Tour)

11 hoursFree Cancellation

Premium Milford Sound Tour, Cruise & Lunch from Te Anau

from $409

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Top Attractions in South Island

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Attractions

What are people saying about South Island

Sue_A, Aug 2026

Sue and Sarah Milford Sound

Well organised, interesting and engaging tour of the road journey from Te Anua to Milford Sound and back, plus the small boat cruise. Jason was an excellent tour guide. He was very informative and easy to listen to and understand. He was also a good, safe driver. He did his best to make the day enjoyable for our small group.

Premium Milford Sound Small Group Tour & Cruise from Queenstown

Yuan_H, Aug 2026

The entire experience was...

The entire experience was great from start to end. Communication, pickup was very easy. The tour was great fun, Danny was a great tour guide and had a great soundtrack to accompany the entire experience. The cruise out onto Milford Sound was stunning. Worth it!

Walter Peak Gourmet BBQ Lunch & Queenstown Lake Cruise

Kendall_W, Jul 2026

This was a great activity...

This was a great activity for the price. We arrived at Walter Peak via the steam boat. The boat ride itself was great. Drinks and food on boat. Can go into the engine room and watch. Had a buffet and farm show on walter peak. Good was good and the farm show was very interesting. Great experience and will definitely do it again if I were to come back to queenstown.

Milford Sound Fly-Cruise-Fly Tour from Queenstown

Rebecca_V, Jul 2026

Stunning views

Absolutely amazing bucket list stuff! The girls in the office with helped to change our date due to poor weather conditions. The day was well organised and our pilot Michael was awesome and explained what we were looking at and let us know if there was going to be a few bumps. The boat tour at Milford Sound was stunning and also well organised! AMAZING!

Milford Sound Coach and Cruise tour from Queenstown

Hiteshkumar_P, Jul 2026

Milford sound/ Heaven

It's unforgottable, feels like it's heaven as it was named originally. Can't explain in words, can't be captured in photoes or videos. Further to this the coach service was outstanding and road trip was fully filled with stunning views. Our Pure Milford coach driver "NAOKI" was excellent in providing live commentary through the way.

Franz Josef Glacier Heli-Hike

Brenna_D, Jun 2026

High quality and attention to safety

We were thoroughly impressed by our guide, the quality of service, and the attention to safety. The guides actively chip out your trail as you go and the facility provides high quality gear so you don't need to pack it from home. We lucked out and had a super clear day but even in clouds it would have been a fun experience.

Te Anau Glow Worm Caves Tour

bcripps1, May 2026

A Wonderful Experience

Very popular trip. Lovely ride across the lake to the caves. Very well organised with knowledgeable guides giving a full presentation prior to entering the caves themselves. Magical boat ride around the caves in silence so you can really appreciate what you're experiencing. A 'must do' trip. Don't miss it

Milford Sound Cruise

Guy_S, Apr 2026

Excellent - particularly capital and crew

Pure Milford - great way to see the sound. The capital and crew were BY FAR the friendliest, most accommodating, and knowledgeable people I've encountered on a short cruise like this. Heck, they will even take your picture without any bother. Boat was clean, free coffee drinks (cappuccino, mocha, etc).

Shotover River Extreme Jet Boat Ride in Queenstown

Valerie_H, Apr 2026

5/5 stars. No notes.

A must do while in Queenstown! My husband and I had the best time on this experience! A quick 10 min drive out of Queenstown, plenty of parking, and really easy to find. There is a lovely brewery/restaurant next to the river to grab a beer/bite before or after the jet boat ride. We didn't eat, but the beers were good! (The food did look good though.) Shotover was running about 10 min behind for the day, so we didn't get on the river at our schedule time, but it was within 10 min. The weather was a perfect fall day, and the sun was out, but it was still a bit chilly on the river. You will get wet, so dress for the experience. Josh, our boat captain, was awesome! He was fun, knowledgeable, and a very skilled driver. He constantly checked-in to make sure everyone was okay and having a good time. You can tell he loves what he does for a living. The views down the river and through the canyons are stunning. The only downfall of the experience is that you can't take photos or videos while the boat is moving. You really have to take it all in and be present in the moment to get the full experience, which is good. The boat gets so close to the rocks and you feel the cold, fresh water on your face -- it is awesome. I would recommend this experience to anyone who visits Queenstown and I would do it again myself.

2-Hour Milford Sound Scenic Cruise

Andrzej_B, Mar 2026

Wow!,,

Top notch trip! We were lucky that it rained overnight so, while it was cloudy and not too warm, the waterfalls were spectacular. A wonderful activity, one not to be missed. A couple of criticisms, however. We were warned that parking could be a problem and that was so true. However, the information about a shuttle operating every 15 mins was not true… there wasn’t one at all. Also, apparently there are several overflow parking lots which staff are supposed to manage.… but we did not see that happen.