Things to do in South Island

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Queenstown showing a river or creek and boating
Kawarau Suspension Bridge which includes a sporting event, a bridge and a gorge or canyon
Bob\'s Peak showing views, general coastal views and mountains
South Island which includes land animals and mountains
South Island featuring boating, a river or creek and a gorge or canyon

South Island Attractions

Explore the sights of South Island with some popular tours & day trips, or check out our list of {6 fun activities in South Island fun activities in South Island}. We have no booking fees and free cancellation, so you can rest easy and put your energy into planning the perfect vacation.


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Most popular activities in South Island

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What to do in South Island

Things to Do in South Island with Kids

There's fun for the entire family no matter where you go in South Island. Here are a few family friendly experiences you can do together that promise to make your trip unforgettable:


 

Looking for sports, concerts, or theater events in South Island? Search event tickets to see what's happening today, or to plan what to do this weekend!

 


 


Discover the most popular places to visit in South Island

Discover the most popular landmarks and neighborhoods in South Island

Queenstown Beach featuring a small town or village, a pebble beach and a lake or waterhole

Queenstown City Centre

Discover superb adventure sports, art, nightlife and shopping attractions in this compact district nestled between Lake Wakatipu and soaring mountains.

Queenstown City Centre
New Regent Street featuring railway items and outdoor eating as well as a small group of people

Christchurch City Centre

4.5/5(344 area reviews)

Explore the picturesque and vibrant heart of the city that is getting back to normal after a series of devastating earthquakes.

Christchurch City Centre
Dunedin featuring a park, heritage elements and a pond

Dunedin City Centre

4.5/5(89 area reviews)

Travelers come to Dunedin City Centre for its abundant dining options, and you can see top attractions like Grand Casino and The Octagon while you're in town.

Dunedin City Centre
International Antarctic Centre showing interior views

Christchurch Airport

If you're looking for some top things to see and do in Christchurch Airport and surrounding area, you can visit International Antarctic Centre and Harewood Golf Club.

Christchurch Airport
Frankton featuring a small town or village, forests and mountains

Frankton

4/5(42 area reviews)

Stay in this picturesque part of Queenstown where the airport is located to enjoy spectacular mountain views and relaxed lakeside walks.

Frankton
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Goldfield Heights

While there might not be top attractions in Goldfield Heights, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Queenstown Mall and Skycity Queenstown Casino.

Goldfield Heights

 

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

 


 

Popular day trips from South Island

Frequently asked questions

What to do in South Island on a sunny day?
What to do in South Island on a rainy day?
If it's raining cats and dogs outside, throw yourself into a Spirit of Queenstown Scenic Cruise or a Milford Sound Scenic Flyover.
What should I not miss in South Island?
Don't go home without crossing off the following fantastic sights:

  • Coronet Peak Ski Area
  • Mona Vale
  • New Brighton Beach
  • St. Clair Beach

Are there cheap things to do in South Island?
What can you do in South Island for free?
You could store your cash in the hotel safe for the day, because these cool attractions will cost you nothing at all:

  • Mona Vale
  • New Brighton Beach
  • St. Clair Beach
  • Lyttelton Harbour