The 6 Best Things to Do in New Zealand’s South Island
Te Waipounamu is the place to marvel at stunning lakes, nature landscapes, and mountain vistas. From taking in stunning aerial views with Mt. Cook helicopter tours to visiting one of the country's only castles, here are some thrilling activities to do in New Zealand's South Island.
1. Feel Like Royalty at One of New Zealand's Few Castles
The Larnach Castle in Dunedin is one of the few castles you can find in the entire country. Built by William Larnarch in 1871, the castle provides a captivating peek into the history of Dunedin.
Here you can find a 3000-square-foot ballroom, a tower overlooking the Otago Peninsula, and gorgeous Victorian-style gardens. If you're in the area, you can't miss out on visiting Larnarch Castle. Revel in the regal aura with High Tea that happens in the castle at 3 pm daily.
2. Take a Scenic Flight Overlooking Mt. Cook
Mt. Cook/Aoraki is the highest mountain in New Zealand, standing tall at 3,724 metres. You can either visit Mt. Cook on foot or take a scenic flight. If you prefer the latter, the best way to capture captivating aerial views is by taking a scenic flight with Nelson helicopters. You can view the majestic Mt. Cook via helicopters or planes you can book online. Pictures won't be able to give justice to the stunning panoramic views you'll encounter.
3. Explore Milford and Doubtful Sounds
At the UNESCO World Heritage site, Fiordland National Park features the natural attractions Milford and Doubtful Sounds. You can explore these majestic sights by boat, air, or foot. Don't forget to bring your favourite camera to capture the magnificent views that only nature holds. You can visit the park through the charming town of Te Anau.
4. Taste the Finest Wines in Central Otago
Schedule a wine-tasting session by visiting the well-known wineries around Central Otago. You can learn about the winemaking process, take in the rows of barrels and vats, and delight in the finest wines.
If you don't know where to start, look into Rippon Winery, Peregrine, Amisfield Winery, and Gibbston Valley Cheesery. These establishments offer some of the best quality wines in the country.
5. Relish the Great Outdoors at Mt. Aspiring National Park
Mt. Aspiring National Park is every nature lover's dream. This park is brimming with waterfalls, blue lakes, glaciers, and a lush forest. There is a magnificent sight for every person who wanders this landmark. Just an hour away from Wanaka, you can enjoy various outdoor activities. If you want to marvel at the sights and unwind, you can book a scenic flight overlooking the park with Nelson helicopters.
6. Go Bungee Jumping in Queenstown
If you're fond of adrenaline-filled activities, you can't miss out on bungee jumping in one of the best launching pads in Queenstown. You can find the most exciting swings and bungee jumps in Queenstown. Whether you always love a jump or want to push yourself out of your comfort zone, you'll enjoy the many options available in this South Island city.
You can't miss out on these epic adventures to do when in South Island. Whether sightseeing at Mt. Cook on helicopters or capturing scenic views, there's always something to experience in Te Waipounamu.
