Things to do in South Island

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A red speedboat on a turquoise river surrounded by rocky banks and dense green trees.
A bungee jump bridge with a person mid-air, surrounded by rocky cliffs and greenery.
A viewpoint with a signpost indicating distances to various cities like New York, Los Angeles, and Vancouver.
A green field with cows, trees, and snow-capped mountains in the background.
A speedboat with 'SHOTOVER' written on it, navigating a narrow waterway between rocky cliffs.

South Island Attractions

Explore the sights of South Island with some popular tours & day trips, or check out our list of {2 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

Tours & day trips

See all 756 activities
Milford Sound Coach & Cruise Tour

Milford Sound Coach & Cruise Tour

Activity duration is 7 hours and 30 minutes
9.2 out of 10 with 107 reviews
Free cancellation available
Price is $138 per adult
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Private & custom tours

See all 211 activities
Queenstown: Hydro Attack Shark Ride

Queenstown: Hydro Attack Shark Ride

Activity duration is 15 minutes
10.0 out of 10 with 4 reviews
Free cancellation available
Price is $105 per adult
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Adventure & outdoor

See all 172 activities
TranzAlpine Train, Arthur's Pass and Castle Hill Day Trip

TranzAlpine Train, Arthur's Pass and Castle Hill Day Trip

Activity duration is 10 hours
9.8 out of 10 with 331 reviews
Free cancellation available
Price is $234 per adult
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Food, drink & nightlife

See all 140 activities
Milford Sound Full-Day Experience with Nature Cruise & Lunch ex Queenstown

Milford Sound Full-Day Experience with Nature Cruise & Lunch ex Queenstown

Activity duration is 12 hours and 30 minutes
9.4 out of 10 with 113 reviews
Free cancellation available
Price is $222 per adult
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Attractions

See all 17 activities
International Antarctic Centre General Admission Ticket

International Antarctic Centre General Admission Ticket

Activity duration is 3 hours
9.4 out of 10 with 62 reviews
Free cancellation available
Price is $43 per adult
International Antarctic Centre General Admission TicketOpens in new tab

Recommended things to do in South Island

Number of things to do
2
Cheapest thing to do on Expedia
Stewart Island Village & Bays Tour: $35
Top 5 things to do
Under $25
With kids

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!

 

 

Stay near popular South Island attractions

A mountain path with snow-capped peaks and green vegetation.

Aoraki / Mount Cook

9.6/10 (613 reviews)
Explore the great outdoors at Aoraki / Mount Cook and enjoy the stunning glacier views during your trip to Mount Cook. Wander the lakeside in this quaint area.
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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

A calm lake with mountains in the background and a sunset.

Blenheim

A cityscape with modern buildings, a construction site, and a distinctive blue sculpture.

Christchurch

A beach with two people walking, mountains in the background, and a sunset sky.

Hokitika

A coastal landscape with a sandy beach, a river flowing into the sea, and distant landforms.

Invercargill

A calm lake with driftwood and rocks, surrounded by mountains and a clear sky.

Milford Sound

A paved path leading through a grassy field towards snow-capped mountains.

Mount Cook

A mountainous landscape with rocky terrain and green valleys.

Motueka

A coastal town with a beach, boats, and a mountainous backdrop.

Nelson

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