New Zealand’s South Island: Where every turn feels like a ‘Postcard’ and is pure magic!

A hidden gem that offering peaceful, undeveloped beauty away from the crowds.

it’s a conservation area where you might be lucky enough to see one of the world’s rarest penguins. The viewing platform overlooks the coastline, and during late afternoon or early evening, yellow-eyed penguins may be seen making their way ashore.

📍 How to get there: Located on the Otago Peninsula. access the viewing platform by taking the Bushy Beach (search on Google Maps).

💡 Tip: No beach access after 3pm to protect the yellow-eyed penguins, so plan your visit earlier in the day.

Ever wanted to walk on a glacier?

Fox Glacier is one of the few glaciers in the world that descends into lush temperate rainforest. But what makes it even more exciting? This magical place lets you walk on the glacier, explore dazzling blue ice caves, or even try ice climbing on towering glacial walls!!

📍 How to get there: Drive to Fox Glacier from Franz Josef (about 25 minutes) or Hokitika (about 2 hours). Guided glacier hikes depart from the Fox Glacier township ⬅️

💡 Tip: Weather can change quickly in this region, so always book your guided tours in advance and check for updates on the day.

Soak into the NZ’s autumn vibes.

This old gold mining town is seriously too pretty 🥹🍂 Autumn hits different here. Golden trees, cosy streets, and small town chill vibes. Grab a coffee, go for a wander, and just soak it all in ✨

📍 How to get there: Only a 20-minute drive from Queenstown.

💡 Tip: Visit in April for the spectacular autumn colours, this town looks like something out of a postcard!

It is one of the most unique roadside attractions in New Zealand.

Okay, this one is random but fun! A fence covered in bras! 🤣 It started as a joke but became a famous roadside attraction for a good cause (raising awareness for breast cancer).

📍 How to get there: Easily accessible by car. It’s a 1.5 hour drive from Wanaka or a 3 hour drive from Queenstown.

💡 Tip: Bring a bra if you wanna leave your mark! It’s a quirky tradition to hang one on the fence.

Hands down, one of the best hikes in New Zealand! This easy 3-hour return walk takes you past swing bridges, glaciers, and insane mountain views before ending at a stunning glacial lake with Mount Cook towering above.

Hooker Valley Track offers some of the best views of Aoraki / Mount Cook, New Zealand’s highest peak. Itis fairly easy for most hikers, with well-maintained paths, swing bridges, and riverside views.

📍 How to get there: Easily accessible by car. It’s a 1.5 hour drive from Wanaka or a 3 hour drive from Queenstown.

💡 Tip: A must-visit spot in New Zealand!! Don’t miss the famous swing bridge!

Famous for appearing in the live-action Mulan movie.

Tucked away near Omarama, the Clay Cliffs look like something straight out of a sci-fi movie! These jagged rock formations are super unique and make for epic photos.

It is a series of stunning pinnacles and ridges that create a dramatic, almost otherworldly landscape. A short drive from Omarama, it’s a must-stop for those who love epic views and unique geology!

📍 How to get there: Situated near Omarama, about a 1.5 hour drive from Queenstown or a 30 minute drive from Twizel.

💡 Tip: The road there is a bit bumpy, but totally worth it!

A home to one of New Zealand’s most famous glaciers. The town is surrounded by stunning rainforest and mountains, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty.

Franz Josef also another epic glacier town, with hiking trails, scenic flights, and natural hot pools to soak in after a long day of exploring. If you don’t do a heli-hike, you can still enjoy a short walk to the glacier viewpoint.

📍 How to get there: Drive from Hokitika (about 2 hours) or from Queenstown (around 4 hours). Scenic helicopter tours are also available.

💡 Tip: Must try the kayaking at the lake, it is such a SuperB experience!!

One of the world’s famous trains in the world!

If you love scenic journeys, the TranzAlpine train is a bucket-list experience. The train winds through mountains, rivers, and tunnels, giving you some of the best views in the country.

The stunning views of the Waimakariri River and the Canterbury Plains as the train journeys from Christchurch to Greymouth.

📍 How to get there: Take the TranzAlpine train departing from Christchurch, with stops in Greymouth (or either way).

💡 Tip: Make sure to book a window seat on the right side of the train for the best views of the Southern Alps!

The Eighth Wonder of the World 🤯

If you only have time for one place in the South Island, make it Milford Sound.As one of New Zealand’s most iconic and breathtaking locations, it’s a fiord surrounded by towering cliffs, waterfalls, and lush rainforest. The dramatic landscape and serene waters make it perfect for cruises, kayaking, or simply soaking in the natural beauty.

Go on a scenic boat cruise or, if you’re feeling adventurous, try kayaking to get up close to the waterfalls!

📍 How to get there: Drive from Te Anau (about 2 hours) or take a coach tour from Queenstown (4 hours).

💡 Tip: Drive from Te Anau for the ultimate road trip experience, you can easily spot cheeky kea birds 🦜 Early morning visits offer the best views with fewer tourists.

A lesser-known gem in Arthur’s Pass, offering alpine scenery and challenging hikes for experienced hikers.

This one’s for the mountain lovers! Temple Basin, near Arthur’s Pass, offers amazing hikes with panoramic views. It’s also a ski field in winter, so you can hike in summer & ski in winter.

The stunning panoramic views from the top of the Basin, a reward for your effort.

📍 How to get there: Located just outside Arthur’s Pass, it’s a 2.5 hour drive from Christchurch.

💡 Tip: Prepare for a bit challenging hike, but the views from the summit are well worth the effort.

A quieter, more peaceful alternative to Milford Sound.

Doubtful Sound for its towering cliffs, lush rainforest, and abundant wildlife, including dolphins, seals, and penguins.

If you want Milford Sound without the crowds, go to Doubtful Sound. It’s bigger, quieter, and feels even more untouched. You’ll need to take a boat & bus combo to get there, but it’s totally worth it.

📍 How to get there: Located just outside Arthur’s Pass, it’s a 2.5 hour drive from Christchurch.

💡 Tip: Prefer less touristy? You must go for this. Try their overnight cruise! It’s another level 😍