Things to Do in South Island

Choose from 89 Fun Things to Do in South Island

Dunedin Railway Station

Made of bluestone with marble floors and stained glass windows, the Dunedin Railway Station is one of Dunedin’s most impressive buildings and purportedly the most photographed in New Zealand. Far more than a railway station, here you can also grab something to eat, visit a sports museum, or photograph the attractive building.

The Basics

Opened in 1906, the once-busy Dunedin Railway Station still services the Taieri Gorge Railway, a scenic journey that extends into the Central Otago countryside. Today the golden age of rail is long over, and now there’s a restaurant on the ground floor, while the upper floor houses the New Zealand Sports Hall of Fame and the Otago Art Society. The striking venue is also used for special events.

Many sightseeing tours of Dunedin include a stop at the station, and it’s also an easy place to visit independently. Railway lovers can take the return day trip on the Taieri Gorge Railway, which offers spectacular views and marvelous feats of engineering.

Things to Know Before You Go

A local farmers market is held in front of the station every Saturday morning. It’s a great place to go if you’re self-catering in Dunedin.
To learn more about the history of Dunedin and the gold rush that led to the building of the station, visit the nearby Toitū Otago Settlers Museum.
Sports fans shouldn’t skip a visit to the New Zealand Sports Hall of Fame, housed in the station building.

How to Get There

The Railway Station is easy to find in central Dunedin, just southeast of the Octagon. Many hotels are located within walking distance of the station. Several bus routes pass through the Octagon, and taxis all know where to go.

When to Get There

The station can be visited year-round, as the building is attractive in all weather, and Taieri Gorge Railway trips run throughout the year. Opening hours are 8am to 5pm Monday to Friday, and 9am to 2:30pm Saturday and Sunday.

Visit Larnach Castle

Lovers of colonial architecture—or just travelers interested in history and New Zealand culture—should also pay a visit to Larnach Castle, located on the Otago Peninsula, a short drive from the Dunedin Railway Station and central city. The beautiful 19th-century house and gardens can be toured, and there’s an upmarket lodge on the premises.

Dunedin, New Zealand

From $ 20

Avon River

To the native Maori, the Avon River was an area of swampland which was used as a seasonal fishing spot. The area around the rivermouth was mostly uninhabited, and fresh water which trickled from springs was used for sacred healing purposes.

Today the Avon is a meandering river which weaves its way through Christchurch, its mellow waters bringing a calming presence to the urban bustle of the city. The river bisects the western suburbs such as Riccarton and Fendalhead, and then passes directly through the center of Christchurch and sprawling Hagley Park. To the east of the city, the Avon finally spills into the Pacific not far from the beach town of Sumner.

In downtown Christchurch, punting on the Avon River from Hagley Park is a popular visitor activity. Sit back and relax as expert steersmen push the flat-bottom craft along the river, and watch as peaceful scenes of Christchurch drift along on the banks. The Avon River flows directly through the business district which was hardest hit by the earthquakes, and rebuilding plans are modeled around the river being a centerpiece of town.

Christchurch, New Zealand

From $ 14

Banks Peninsula

The Banks Peninsula is a side of Christchurch that too many visitors miss out on. This mostly-undeveloped, circular peninsula juts out from Christchurch like a swollen thumb, yet despite its obvious prominence on a map, a large majority of Christchurch visitors make the mistake of never exploring the area.

The lone exception is the town of Akaroa which is one of the most popular day trips from Christchurch. This charming outpost of French heritage is located a 90-minute drive from Christchurch, and the boutique shops and rose-lined cottages gaze out towards a protected harbor. The harbor itself is the flooded caldera of the volcano which formed the peninsula, and the calm waters are a popular place for boating and swimming with dolphins. Along the drive to Akaroa you weave through pastures and farmlands, and a handful of wineries and gourmet food stops are sprinkled along the highway.

While the road to Akaroa is fairly well-trodden, the myriad hiking trails of the Banks Peninsula are often second-fiddle to the island’s Great Walks. Unlike the popular hiking tracks, however, it’s still possible to have the Banks Peninsula walking trails completely all to yourself. Walk along trails that gaze out over the harbor and look down towards Akaroa, or strap up the laces for a multi-day trek that explores the isolated shoreline. Rugged, remote, and refreshingly rural, the Banks Peninsula combines adventure with emptiness and invites you to take life slowly.

Banks Peninsula, Christchurch, New Zealand

From $ 49

Fiordland National Park

Sprawling along New Zealand’s southwest coast, Fiordland National Park represents the country at its most photogenic: jagged mountains, rugged glacial valleys, and glittering fjords. This UNESCO World Heritage Site harbors some of New Zealand’s most impressive natural wonders, including Milford Sound, Doubtful Sound, and Lake Te Anau, as well as rare Fiordland penguins, dolphins, seals, and sea lions.

The Basics

Whether you’re soaring over Milford Sound in a helicopter, taking a scenic cruise along Doubtful Sound, or hiking the famous Milford Track, there are ample opportunities for adventure in Fiordland National Park. Tours typically start out from Queenstown or Te Anau and visit must-see attractions such as Mitre Peak, the Te Anau Glowworm Caves, Dusky Sound, and Manapouri Lake.

Things to Know Before You Go

Weather in Fiordland National Park can be temperamental, especially around the fjords, so be prepared for wind and rain—even in summer.
If you’re hiking, remember to wear comfortable shoes and bring plenty of water and snacks, as there are limited places to purchase supplies.
There is no public transportation within the park, so you’ll need to join a tour if you don’t have your own transport.
Cell phone coverage is limited, but free Wi-Fi is available at the Fiordland National Park Visitor Center.
Some cruises and attractions are wheelchair accessible but not all activities within the park are accessible to those with limited mobility, so it’s best to check in advance.

How to Get There

Fiordland National Park stretches over 3.2 million acres (1.2 million hectares) along the southwest coast of New Zealand’s South Island. The nearest international airport is in Queenstown, roughly 107 miles (172 kilometers) by road from the park’s main entry points—the lakeside towns of Te Anau and Manapouri. Fiordland National Park can also be accessed from Milford Sound, which lies roughly 178 miles (287 kilometers) by road from Queenstown.

When to Get There

Summer (December through February) is the most popular time to visit Fiordland. Cooler spring and autumn temperatures make for great hiking, fewer crowds, and lower prices. Winter visitors will be at the weather’s mercy, but the park’s snow-covered peaks offer some spectacular scenery. Hikers should be aware that the Milford Track is only maintained from October through April, and lodges and facilities will be closed outside of this time.

Outdoor Activities in Fiordland National Park

Fiordland is one of the best destinations for hiking in New Zealand, with three of the country’s Great Walks running through the park—the Milford Track, the Kepler Track, and the Routeburn Track, as well as a huge variety of short walks. Other outdoor activities include kayaking around Doubtful Sound, jet boating or fishing along the Waiau River, cycling or horseback riding around the lakes, and skydiving in Glenorchy.

New Zealand

Free

From $ 32

Christchurch Botanic Gardens

Christchurch, coined the Garden City, is an Anglophile settlement of well-tended gardens and tree-lined streets. Its crowning jewel is the 52-acre (21-hectare) Christchurch Botanic Gardens, attractively set within Hagley Park alongside the winding Avon River. The gardens are planted with thousands of exotic and indigenous plants and trees including seasonal blooms such as magnolias, azaleas, and 250 varieties of roses.

The Basics

Many visitors opt for a narrated tour of the Christchurch Botanic Gardens by caterpillar—an electric-powered, open-top shuttle that makes frequent stops. Hop on and off at your leisure and meander through the extensive grounds. Combine your tour with a 30-minute punt ride on the Avon River: Relax in a flat-bottomed boat while a punter navigates the willow-lined banks with a long pole.

Things to Know Before You Go

The Botanic Gardens are a must-see for gardeners, arborists, architecture enthusiasts, or anyone wanting a relaxing oasis away from the bustle of the city.
This family-friendly destination features a children’s playground that’s been popular since the early 1900s.
Smoking is not allowed, nor are dogs permitted.
You’ll find a cafe at the Visitor Centre, a restaurant at the Tudor-style Curator’s House, crisscross trails for walking, and inviting lawns for a picnic.

How to Get There

Find the entrance to the Botanic Gardens on Rolleston Avenue, located on the western edge of central Christchurch, less than half a mile from the CBD. The destination is one of 17 hop-on hop-off stops on the Christchurch Tramway, which makes a 50-minute circuit around the Garden City.

When to Get There

Wander among more than 100 beds of roses in bloom from pre-Christmas into January. Bordering the Rose Garden you’ll find a stunning array of dahlias between January and April. Begonias can be found in the Townend House conservatory from mid-January until the end of March. However, any time of year is worth a visit.

Plentiful Photo Opportunities

The Christchurch Botanic Gardens include a water garden, rock and heather gardens, New Zealand gardens, a herb garden, a daffodil woodland, and so much more. Six conservatories protect desert plants, tropical blooms, begonias, alpine plants, and orchids. Also of note are architectural landmarks like the Peacock Fountain, Cuningham Glasshouse, Band Rotunda, and Antigua Boat Shed.

Rolleston Avenue, Christchurch 8013, New Zealand

Free. Guided tour: NZ$5

From $ 14

Baldwin Street

When walking up Dunedin’s Baldwin Street, don’t be ashamed if you need to stop and catch your breath for a while. After all, this short, steep, concrete street is famously known as the steepest street in the world, and thousands of visitors annually make the leg-straining climb to the top. With grades that reach up to 35 percent, the street astoundingly climbs 232 vertical feet over the course of only 0.2 miles. In fact, the street is so remarkably steep, that when it was first constructed in the mid-19th century, concrete was used in lieu of asphalt so that the tar wouldn’t melt and roll towards the bottom on the hottest days of summer.

Thanks to its superlative steepness and fame, Baldwin Street hosts a number of events that take place throughout the year. Each July, thousands of revelers gather at the bottom during the popular Cadbury Chocolate Festival, and thousands of chocolate candies are rolled down the entire length of the hill. In summer, committed runners sprint up the street during the torturous “Baldwin Street Gutbuster,” where endurance is required to run up the street, and balance for running back down.

Practical Info

Baldwin Street is located in the North East Valley suburb about 2.2 miles from the city center. There is much needed drinking fountain at the top of the street, and once back at the bottom, a shop where you can buy a certificate of completion for conquering the famous street.

Baldwin Street, Dunedin, New Zealand

From $ 32

Coronet Peak

Coronet Peak is New Zealand’s oldest ski field and remains a popular choice for people heading to the slopes during the southern hemisphere’s ski season. Snow bunnies can take to one of the ski field’s many trails, while sightseers can enjoy the stunning views of the Wakatipu Basin and the Southern Alps from the summit of the peak.

The Basics

Located fewer than 10 miles (16 kilometers) north of Queenstown, Coronet Peak has a large number of trails designed for skiers and snowboarders of all experience levels, from beginner courses at the base of the mountain to black diamond slopes that branch out from the summit. Lessons are available for first-timers young and old.

Coronet Peak isn’t just a hot spot for snowsports, though. Sightseers can take a chairlift up to the top of the summit and relish the panoramic views of the Otago region and the rest of the Southern Alps. Experienced hikers and mountain bikers can start the picturesque Devils Creek Track on Coronet Peak Road. Visitors looking for a bit more adventure can try hang gliding or paragliding from the summit.

Things to Know Before You Go

Coronet Peak is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, and with daycare options and free passes for children under 5 years old, it’s a great ski field for families.
Temperatures on the mountain can dip below freezing, so make sure to wear boots, warm layers, and waterproof jackets and pants.
Ski and snowboarding gear, jackets, pants, and helmets are all available for rent from Coronet Peak’s rental shop.
If heading to the nearby Remarkables ski field the next day, you can have your rental gear transferred to the field.
Coronet Peak has two cafés and a restaurant that are open for most of the day. If you fancy a wine or beer while looking out over the Southern Alps, the Ice Bar is located just off the M1 trail.

How to Get There

Coronet Peak is a short drive from Queenstown, but you’ll need chains to make it the whole way there. Alternatively, catch the express bus from the Queenstown Snow Centre on Duke Street, which leaves every 20 minutes during the morning—or, for a small fee, you can get the bus to pick you up from your hotel.

When to Get There

Ski season typically runs from June or July to October, and snow cover is usually best in late July and August—the snow starts melting when spring hits. If you’re more interested in excitement and atmosphere than top conditions, plan to visit in early July, when the annual Queenstown Winter Festival takes over the mountain day and night.

Ski by Night at Coronet Peak

Coronet Peak is typically open only during the day, but the slopes remain open late during the height of the ski season. If you time it right, you can ride the slopes during an Otago sunset, then head to the restaurant or Ice Bar for food, drink, and a live DJ performing late into the night.

Coronet Peak, New Zealand

From $ 21

Canterbury Museum

Much like the fascinating Te Papa Museum in Wellington, the Canterbury Museum offers an in-depth look at the history and culture of Christchurch. Located in the Christchurch city center (and only sustaining minor damage in the 2011 earthquake), visitors can ogle over the Neo-Gothic architecture before even stepping foot in the door. Admission to the museum is technically free of charge (though donations are gladly accepted), and you can easily spend hours getting lost in the culture of Christchurch, Canterbury, and New Zealand.

Exhibits at the museum run the gamut of history, from the early days of Maori discovery to the modern street art of Christchurch. The museum itself was established in 1867 by the explorer Julius Haast (for whom such places as the town of Haast got their name), and the Canterbury Museum has been deemed a historical site that you can visit during a day trip to Christchurch. Learn about the voyages of Antarctic explorers and the days of European settlement, and immerse yourself in curious “Kiwiana” such as the house of paua (abalone) which is largely constructed from shells. There are entertaining exhibits for children of all ages, and the informative displays over multiple stories make this one of the best free activities in Christchurch. When finished with the museum, take some time to stroll nearby Hagley Park or visit the Botanical Gardens just a short walk away.

Rolleston Ave, Christchurch 8013, New Zealand

Apr-Sep 9am-5pm, Oct-Mar 9am-5:30pm

From $ 18

Bridge of Remembrance

Stretching across the Avon River, the Bridge of Remembrance was unveiled in 1924 to honor the servicemen and women who bravely fought in World War I. Hundreds of soldiers have since marched on its stones. Today, the bridge and monument arch are viewed by many as the center of downtown Christchurch.

The Basics

While it's possible to spot the Bridge of Remembrance independently, it’s best visited as part of a guided city sightseeing tour. Whether pointed out from a double-decker bus or explored while on a bicycle tour of downtown Christchurch, you’ll learn about the monument’s historical significance—a stoic reminder of the bravery of Canterbury’s troops—via in-depth commentary from local guides. For a patriotic and moving event, visit the bridge on Anzac Day to honor the soldiers who have fallen.

Things to Know Before You Go

The Bridge of Remembrance and its stone arch now function as a memorial site for those who also fought in conflicts after the Great War.
Visits to the historical landmark are a must-do for war veterans and history buffs.
The site is popular for family picnics overlooking the Avon River.

How to Get There

The Bridge of Remembrance crosses the Avon River at the end of Cashel Street and links the Oxford and Cambridge Terraces. With its central location, it’s easily accessible on foot or by car, coach, bicycle, or tram. The Christchurch Tramway includes 17 stops, allowing you to disembark at nearby attractions, which include the Cashel Street Mall and Punting on the Avon.

When to Get There

The bridge is open 24 hours daily. Due to its outdoor location, it’s best visited in dry weather. People typically spend 15–45 minutes exploring the site, which can be viewed during daylight hours or when illuminated at night.

Earthquake Recovery

The major earthquake that hit Canterbury in 2011 damaged both the Bridge of Remembrance and the accompanying Triumphal Arch. The bridge was closed to the public, with the two lion figures atop the arch among the most heavily damaged pieces. For three years engineers worked to strengthen the structure, bringing it back to its former glory.

Cashel Street, Christchurch, South Island 8011, New Zealand

From $ 49

Church of the Good Shepherd

Built in 1935 as a memorial to the pioneers of Mackenzie County, The Church of the Good Shepherd attracts visitors from around the world. The Church is set on the shores of Lake Tekapo. Framed by the lake and the mountains, you don’t have to be a photographer to appreciate its picturesque qualities.

When the Church was constructed, builders were given a very specific set of rules to follow. The site had to be undisturbed. No plantings or rocks could be removed. All stones used to build the church walls had to come from within five miles of the construction site and could not be chipped or altered.

The church interior features an altar window with views of Lake Tekapo and the mountains. The cupboard in the Vestry was made with wood from the Tekapo Bridge. The bridge was demolished in 1954.

Practical Info

The Church of the Good Shepherd is interdenominational and services are held regularly throughout the year. It’s also a popular spot for weddings. Be sure to have your camera charged and handy.

Lake Tekapo 7999, New Zealand

From $ 155

Christchurch Art Centre

The Arts Centre of Christchurch was long the creative hub of the city. Located in Gothic Revival buildings that were once home to the University of Canterbury, the center took a hit in 2011 when a major earthquake damaged 22 of the 23 buildings. The Arts Centre is currently closed to the public, but work is underway to reopen the Art Centre in stages.

The site’s origins date back to the late 1800s. Along with the University of Canterbury, the buildings housed a girls and boys high school. Both high schools moved off-site and by the mid-1950s a growing population forced the University to move to a larger campus. That’s when the Arts Centre was created.

Practical Info

The damage from the earthquake was extensive. A $290 million restoration is underway. It’s reportedly the largest heritage project being undertaken in the world. Estimated final completion is expected in 2019.

Worcester Boulevard, Christchurch 8013, New Zealand

From $ 20

Christchurch Gondola

Enjoy a bird’s-eye view from more than 1,640 feet (500 meters) above sea level on the Christchurch Gondola. Take in 360-degree views as the Christchurch cityscape competes for your attention with views of the Canterbury Plains, the Southern Alps and the Banks Peninsula. The trip takes 10 minutes each way.

The Gondola Base Station is located in Heathcote Valley. Parking is available if you’re coming by car, and the summit Station is at the top of Mt Cavendish. There’s a café and shop in case you need some souvenirs. There are also walking and biking tracks nearby, so come prepared to spend time outside.

Practical Info

The Christchurch Gondola is open from 10am to 5pm, 7 days a week all year long. It’s about a 15-minute car ride from central Christchurch to the Gondola. If you don’t have a car, you can catch a shuttle outside the Canterbury Museum. It leaves on the half hour and returns every hour. You can also jump on public bus number 28.

0 Bridle Path Road, Heathcote Valley, Christchurch 8022, New Zealand

$25 NZD

From $ 20

Doubtful Sound

While tour buses may flock to neighboring Milford Sound, the wild landscapes of Doubtful Sound are equally enchanting and much less crowded. Framed by looming cliffs and dotted with rocky islets and tumbling waterfalls, this natural fjord is three times longer and has 10 times more surface area than Milford Sound. It is also centrally located at the heart of Fiordland National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The Basics

Helicopter and small-plane flights offer spectacular aerial views of the fjord and the surrounding national park, while those interested in seeing the fjord from the water can embark on a catamaran cruise around Doubtful Sound, setting sail from Deep Cove. Tours run from Te Anau, Manapouri, and Queenstown, and often visit other natural wonders such as Manapouri Lake, the Te Anau Glowworm Cave, Dusky Sound, and the Wilmot Pass en-route to the fjord.

Things to Know Before You Go

The weather in Doubtful Sound can be unpredictable, so prepare for wind and rain even in summer.
If hiking, wear comfortable shoes and bring water and snacks—there are limited places to purchase supplies.
Cell phone coverage is limited, but free Wi-Fi is available at the Fjordland National Park Visitor Center.
Most Doubtful Sound cruises are wheelchair accessible, but not all activities within Fiordland National Park are accessible to those with limited mobility, so it’s best to check in advance.

How to Get There

Doubtful Sound is located on the southwest coast of New Zealand’s South Island. The fjord can be reached from Manapouri, a town roughly 100 miles (170 kilometers) by road from Queenstown, a drive of about 2.5 hours. The journey includes a ferry ride across Lake Manapouri, followed by a bus ride over the Wilmot Pass. It is also possible to arrive by helicopter. The nearest international airport is in Queenstown.

When to Get There

Summer (December through February) is the most popular time to visit Doubtful Sound, but the area is open year-round. Winter visitors will be at the weather’s mercy and there will be fewer departures to choose from, but tours are often cheaper and the snow-covered landscapes make for some stunning scenery.

Wildlife Spotting at Doubtful Sound

Here you can spot rare Fiordland crested penguins and New Zealand fur seals, especially on the fjord’s islands. Be on the lookout for southern right whales, orcas, and humpback whales as you cruise through the fjord, and look down to spot black coral beneath the water.

Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

Free

From $ 188

Cashel Street

The face of Cashel Street is ever-changing—from the heart of Christchurch’s once-bustling downtown to its post-earthquake Re:START mall. Today the city mall, also known as Cashel Street Mall, is rebounding as a thriving pedestrian thoroughfare offering shopping, a farmers market, and top-grade people watching.

The Basics

Following the destruction of the devastating 2011 earthquake, this hot spot remains a hub for city residents and visitors alike. Browse the high-end department stores or kick back with an afternoon tea and enjoy the spirit of downtown Christchurch as it literally emerges from the rubble. Ballantynes is still the stalwart on the Colombo Street corner, and the restored Bridge of Remembrance graces the western end of the shopping street at the river. You can find a few remnants of the Re:START mall, which temporarily erected colorful shipping containers in lieu of destroyed buildings from October 2011 to April 2017, between Colombo Street and Oxford Terrace.

Things to Know Before You Go

Cashel Street is a must-see for all first-time visitors to Christchurch.
The Riverside Market offers a boutique food shopping experience, including baked goods, produce, fish, and meats.
The nearby Quake City multimedia exhibit provides an in-depth appreciation of Christchurch’s fall and rebuild.

How to Get There

Cashel Street is centrally located in downtown Christchurch, within walking distance of the Christchurch Botanic Gardens and other attractions. Parking is available, and the closest bus stop is on Colombo Street (between Tuam and Lichfield Streets), which is less than a block away. The Christchurch Tramway stops nearby.

When to Get There

Cashel Street remains a top Christchurch destination throughout the week and on weekends. Riverside Market, which overlooks the Avon River, provides food shopping seven days a week. The Quake City exhibit at the Canterbury Museum is open from 10am to 5pm daily.

Christchurch: Past and Future

Unfortunately, many of the beautiful heritage buildings along Cashel Street were demolished after the 2011 quake. The Re:START Mall—which innovatively used more than 60 shipping containers—opened for business just eight months later. As temporary fixtures make way for more permanent structures like the Riverside Market complex, this downtown destination continues to grow into one of Christchurch’s most popular attractions.

Cashel Street, Christchurch 8011, New Zealand

From $ 18

Christchurch Tramway

The Christchurch Tramway combines leisurely transportation with narrated city sightseeing aboard a restored vintage tram. Visitors learn about historical landmarks in central Christchurch as well as the Garden City’s revival efforts following the earthquake damage of 2011. With 17 hop-on hop-off stops, it’s an easy and fun way to get oriented to New Zealand's third-largest city.

The Basics

The 50-minute route from Cathedral Junction takes you through downtown Christchurch, starting at Cathedral Square. Nearby attractions include the Bridge of Remembrance, Quake City, Christchurch Cathedral, Canterbury Museum, Hagley Park, Victoria Square, and New Regent Street. All trams have informative and entertaining on-board commentary.

Visitor typically combine the hop-on hop-off tour with a punt cruise on the Avon River, a ride on the Christchurch Gondola, a caterpillar shuttle tour through the Christchurch Botanic Gardens, or some combination of activities. Alternatively, take an evening ride on the Restaurant Tram with a 4-course dinner menu that features local lamb and seafood.

Things to Know Before You Go

The Christchurch Tramway departs daily, every 15–20 minutes.
Tickets are typically valid for one day.
Use your ticket to hop on and hop off at 17 stops and create your own sightseeing itinerary.
Some combo tours include convenient hotel pickup and drop-off.
Children up to age 15 travel free; however, the Tramway Restaurant is not suitable for children under 10 years old.

How to Get There

The Christchurch Tramway, including the Tramway Restaurant, departs from Cathedral Junction. The route crosses the Worcester Bridge over the Avon River, loops past the Christchurch Botanic Gardens, and travels past the shops of Armagh Street. You’ll find boutiques and restaurants in the glass-covered shopping arcade, which is easily accessed by metro bus, car, or on foot.

When to Get There

The Tramway runs 9am–6pm daily in summer (September–March) and 10am–5pm daily in winter (April–August). The Tramway Restaurant departs from Tram Stop 1 in Cathedral Junction at 7pm daily March–October and 7:30pm daily November–February (with the exception of public holidays).

Riding in Style

The refurbished 36-seater Christchurch Tramway Restaurant combines sightseeing with a fine-dining experience. Waitstaff serve customers a welcome drink along with coffee or tea to accompany the gourmet 4-course meal. Take a seat at an elegant windowside table and relax in style during the 2.5-hour round-trip journey, which is fully narrated.

7 Tramway Lane, Christchurch, South Island 8011, New Zealand

Varies

From $ 77

Dunedin Cruise Port

Dunedin Cruise Port

Known as the architectural heritage capital of New Zealand, Dunedin was once the largest and wealthiest city in the country. Sitting on the Otago Peninsula on New Zealand’s South Island, this lively university town with Scottish roots is increasingly popular among tourists.

How to Get to Dunedin

Cruise ships dock at Port Chalmers, a suburb of Dunedin located about 8 miles from the city. Shuttle buses are available to take you into the center of town, typically dropping you off at the Octagon in the heart of Dunedin. Public buses also run between Port Chalmers and Dunedin, picking passengers up from the corner of Harrington, Fox and Meridian Streets. Taxis are also available to make the 15 minute drive to Dunedin.

One Day in Dunedin

Whether you take a shuttle or a public bus, you will likely arrive in Dunedin at the Octagon – an eight-sided plaza in the center of town full of bars and cafes. Start with a visit to the Otago Museum to learn more about the region’s cultural and natural history. If you’re interested in contemporary art, stop at the Dunedin Public Art Gallery on the southwestern corner of the Octagon as well. Spend some time checking out the charming Victorian and Edwardian architecture of the city, including Otago University and the Railway Station. Then, head over to bustling George Street, just off of the Octagon, to peruse some of Dunedin’s best shops before taking a break for lunch at one of the many restaurants lining the street.
After lunch, it’s time for dessert! Make your way to Cadbury World on Cumberland Street, where you can sample Cadbury chocolate or even take a guided tour of the factory. Beer-lovers may want to follow that up with a tour of Speight’s Brewery, home of the South Island’s most popular beer. Or, pay a visit to the Royal Albatross Center at Taiaroa Head, home to the world’s only mainland breeding colony of northern royal albatross.

Time permitting, you might also head out to New Zealand’s only castle, Larnach Castle. Sitting on a hilltop a few miles outside of the city, the castle is another example of Victorian architecture and offers spectacular views of Dunedin Bay. Or, save some time to explore the galleries, boutiques and antique shops of Port Chalmers before returning to your ship.

Those wishing to see more of the region surrounding Dunedin might consider an excursion on the Taieri Gorge Railway, a four hour trip with morning and afternoon departures. The train typically departs from the Dunedin Railway Station, but if you book a tour, you will likely depart from, and return to, the port instead.

Port Information

The official language is English and the local currency is the New Zealand dollar. ATMs are readily available and credit cards are widely accepted. Temporary visitor information booths are set up at the port when cruise ships are in port.

New Zealand

From $ 57

Akaroa Harbour

Although it is located in a former British colony, Akaroa Harbour is decidedly French—down to the baguettes and street names—as this Christchurch enclave was originally founded by pioneering French settlers. Located on the rugged Banks Peninsula, 90 minutes by car from Christchurch, Akaroa drifts along at a pace that's more rural, laid-back—and French—than New Zealand’s third-largest city.

The Basics

Aside from the welcoming, francophone atmosphere and scenic views, Akaroa is an especially popular spot to observe wild dolphins. The harbour is located inside the caldera of a sunken volcano, making it ideal habitat for marine mammals and birdlife. A harbor cruise is a must-do activity, and usually includes commentary about landmarks such as Akaroa Lighthouse, Cathedral Cave, and Scenery Nook. Some wildlife-viewing operations even let you swim alongside Hector’s dolphins—the rarest and smallest in the world—if you keep a respectable distance.

Things to Know Before You Go

Akaroa Harbour is a marine mammal sanctuary where encounters with wildlife are regulated.
No touching or harassment of wildlife is allowed, and in events such as mother animals seen swimming with babies, or dolphins appearing to be feeding, guests can view the wildlife from the boat as opposed to getting in the water.
Boat crews brief passengers on how to safely observe the world’s smallest and rarest (and endangered) dolphins.
If getting on—or in—the water isn’t your preference, it’s easy to meander around the charming village, browsing shops, bistros, bakeries, and cafés.

How to Get There

Akaroa is located 46 miles (75 kilometers) southeast of Christchurch, from which shuttles run daily. If driving from the city, allow roughly 1.5 hours and follow a scenic route along Highway 75 around the Banks Peninsula to Akaroa. Alternatively, full-day tours are run from Christchurch, and shore excursions are available for cruise ship passengers at Akaroa Harbour.

When to Get There

Summer sun and generally higher temperatures around December–February make the hidden coves and beaches of Akaroa more pleasant. However, the cooler temps of winter keep the crowds away and off-season prices lower. Wildlife cruises operate year-round.

Wildlife Viewing Abounds in Akaroa

For some added adventure in the area, tour the scenic coastline by kayak and scour the waters for wildlife. In addition to pods of Hector's dolphins, you may see little blue penguins as well as colonies of New Zealand fur seals and diving cormorants (aka shags) that frequent the rocks around Akaroa Harbour.

Main Wharf, Akaroa 7520, New Zealand

Free

From $ 60

Aoraki Mount Cook National Park (Te Wahipounamu)

A fabulous UNESCO World Heritage site measuring 434 square miles (700 square kilometers), Aoraki Mount Cook National Park stretches from Westland to Fiordland on New Zealand's South Island. A mecca for climbers, hikers, skiers, and lovers of natural beauty, the park's attractions include the Tasman Glacier and the warm and welcoming Heritage, New Zealand’s most famous hotel.

Twenty-two of the country's highest mountains also stand proudly in the park, including the mighty 12,316-foot (3,755-meter) Mount Cook itself, the tallest of them all. Perhaps the best way to take in the mountains’ grandeur is from the air on a helicopter tour.

Practical Info

Mount Cook Village is the park's main base, 7.5 miles (12 km) from Mount Cook's snowy summit. Buses run here from Christchurch, Queenstown and Dunedin.and elsewhere on the South Island.

Highway 80, Mount Cook 8770, New Zealand

Daily 8:30am–6pm (until 5pm from May to Sept)

Free

From $ 118

Burkes Pass

Burkes Pass is a small town and a mountain pass in South Canterbury. In earlier times a pioneer township, it’s now a heritage site easy to visit when headed to destinations such as the Mackenzie basin, Mt Cook and Queenstown.

The town grew around a hotel that was opened for weary Mackenzie pioneers. At the town’s height, in the late 1800s and early 1900s, it had a population of 143 and a school with three teachers. St Patrick’s Church, built in 1871, is one of New Zealand’s oldest union churches and serves as a landmark in Burkes Pass.

Practical Info

The Burkes Pass Heritage Walk guides visitors through the history of the area while providing a tour of the sites. You can pick up a copy of the walking tour at St Patrick’s Church or The Musterer’s Hut.

Burkes Pass, New Zealand

From $ 155

Cadbury World

Eating a creamy Cadbury egg is a decadent chocolate experience, and everything is amplified when doing so inside Cadbury World in Dunedin. Set in the heart of the city’s downtown, Cadbury World takes visitors inside the art of crafting their chocolates, and offers the chance to see each step, from cacao through the finished product. On a self-guided tour of the visitor center, read the placards that detail the history of the famous Cadbury chocolate company, and see some of the quirky ads that have been displayed through the years. To really get a feel for the chocolate, however, as well as a succulent taste, join in the hour long, guided tour that includes a trip through the sensory lab to experience each step in the process. There’s even the chance to create your own chocolate and have a hand in the experience, as well as a gift shop and Cadbury Café that can tackle the toughest sweet tooth.

Practical Info

On weekends and public holidays there can be shortened tours that don’t visit the factory. Inquire ahead for the current schedule and offering of different tours. Tours are $22 for adults, $16 for 15 and younger, and $6 for preschool aged children. Family passes are $55 for 2 adults and 2 children younger than 15. Self-guided tours are $5 or $2 for preschool aged children.

280 Cumberland Street, Dunedin 9016, New Zealand

8am–4:30pm daily

Guided tours: $20; Self-guided tours: $5

From $ 46