Choose from 89 Fun Things to Do in South Island
ShowingFilter 61-80 of 89 listings.
Shotover River
In the late 1800s, the Shotover River was a storied outpost of gold, prospectors, and wilderness. Dust-covered panhandlers would camp in canyons in the foothills of the Southern Alps, and scour the raging, turquoise waters with the hope of striking it rich. Today, adrenaline and adventure have replaced sluicing and straining as the most popular pursuits on the river, as the Shotover has become the aquatic playground of visitors traveling to Queenstown.
Bounce down frothing, blue and white rapids while paddling a whitewater raft, or try not to smile as your cheeks flap wildly on a high-speed jetboat up the river. The Shotover drains into the Kawarau River beneath the famous Kawarau Bridge, and you can dip your hands in the cool waters after bungy-jumping from the historic trestle. Even the drive towards the Shotover River is an outdoor adventure in itself, as the road leading into Skipper’s Canyon is a winding, mountainous time portal.
Practical Info
The Shotover River is located north of Queenstown, and most rafting companies will drive for 40 minutes before putting on the river. When rafting, the Shotover River has larger rapids than the neighboring Kawarau River, and also passes through the 560ft. Oxenbridge Tunnel. It’s considered more advanced than the Kawarau River and all rafters must be able to swim.
Address: New Zealand
From $ 77
The Chasm
When visiting New Zealand’s Milford Sound, you’d be forgiven for driving straight through from Te Anau and simply just wanting to get there. After all—Milford Sound is one of the world’s most stunningly scenic areas, and it’s hard to bottle the excitable urge to get there as fast as you can. As it turns out, however, the journey to famous Milford Sound is all a part of the experience, and the Milford Road is lined with hikes, viewpoints, and scenic adventures. One of these stops is known as “The Chasm,” where wooden boardwalks weave through the rain forest amidst a canopy of ferns. After only a couple of minutes on the trail, the sound of waterfalls thundering in the distance gradually begins to get louder, until the Cleddau River is powerfully splashing beneath your feet. From the bridge overlooking The Chasm, you’ll notice a series of massive rocks that are riddled with oversized potholes, which have been naturally formed by water swirling in circles within the canyon. Over the course of thousands of years, the swirling water has created these smooth depressions and holes in the rocks, which only add to the impressive nature of this short, but worthwhile hike.
Practical Info
The Chasm is located halfway between the Homer Tunnel and the waters of Milford Sound. It’s about 1 hour and 35 minutes from Te Anau, and only 15 minutes from the end of the road that finishes in Milford Sound. In total, expect to spend about 20 minutes on the short, 400‐yard hike, and be on the lookout for mischievous kea (alpine parrots) that will happily steal your loose items.
Address: Milford Sound, New Zealand
From $ 115
Waimakariri River
Traveling from the Southern Alps to the Pacific Ocean, Waimakariri is a Maori term meaning “cold water.” Known for its scenery, the Waimakariri River is also the hub for a number of popular water activities.
Jet boating offers a fun and fast way to explore the Waimakariri River's lower braided river system. Fishing is also a popular way for visitors to get their feet wet in the area. Walking, horseback riding and cycling along the river is a good choice for those who want more of a guarantee to stay dry. Full day high country explorer style tours offer a fun escape from Christchurch.
Practical Info
The Waimakariri district is a 20-minute drive north of Christchurch and the International Airport. If you don’t have a car, there are numerous transportation options from Christchurch including bus, rail and tours.
Address: Christchurch, New Zealand
From $ 103
Air Force Museum
For such an isolated country, New Zealand has a lengthier military history than you would expect from the island nation. After all, with its ties to England and the British Commonwealth, the Boer War and both World Wars played large roles in the nation's history. Though the Auckland War Memorial in downtown Auckland offers a comprehensive look at New Zealand's battle history, it's the Air Force Museum in downtown Christchurch that provides the best insight into New Zealand's flying force.
Home to 28 aircrafts and a realistic flight simulator which flies mock missions over Europe, the Air Force Museum is a must-stop in Christchurch for history buffs and aviation enthusiasts. The detailed history of the Royal New Zealand Air Force which is found inside of the museum offers intriguing parallels between the history of aviation and the military history of a nation. Every part of an aircraft"”from the engine components to communication radios to the suit worn by the pilot"”is on display for visitors to enjoy in this free and informative museum. You'll also find parts which have been pilfered from enemies and medals which were won by war heroes. The Air Force Museum is only 15 minutes from the international airport in Christchurch, and is similarly located about 15 minutes from the main Christchurch city center.
Address: 45 Harvard Ave, Christchurch 8140, New Zealand
Hours: Daily 10am-5pm
From $ 117
Wanaka
This small, but lively resort town serves as the gateway to World Heritage Area, Mt Aspiring National Park and New Zealand's fourth-largest lake. Whether you’re looking for peace and quiet or adventures, a long list of options is waiting, and most come with lake and mountain views.
With four distinct seasons, comes changing scenery and changing activities to enjoy in the area. In the summer water activities like boating, kayaking, fishing and swimming take center stage. Fall offers perfect conditions for hiking and biking, while skiers and snowboarders count the days to winter. Spring offers a great combination of spring skiing, biking and exploring trails.
Movie fans visiting for the first time may experience a strong sense of déjà vu. The area around Lake Wanaka and Mt Aspiring National Park is also home to a number of film locations for The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings.
Practical Info
Getting to Wanaka is easy. Buses run regularly from Queenstown Airport. About an hour away, it’s the closest airport. Dunedin Airport is a three-hour drive. Christchurch Airport is five hours away.
Address: Wanaka, South Island, New Zealand, New Zealand
From $ 134
Royal Albatross Centre
The Royal Albatross Centre, within Dunedin city limits on the Otago Peninsula, is an ideal spot for nature viewing. The center is home to the only mainland breeding colony of these large birds in the world. Add a tour of the center to a day trip out to the peninsula—a must-do activity while in Dunedin.
The Basics
The center began in 1938 with just one albatross chick. Now, there are around 140 birds. Albatrosses have an enormous wingspan of around 10 feet (3 meters). The center holds a wealth of information about the birds, so visitors can learn while having fun. Inside the observatory, you may be able to see albatross chicks and, if it’s a windy day, you might even see the adult birds flying. Renowned ecologists have called this the finest example of ecotourism in the world, which is high praise and motivation to visit.
Visitors tend to visit the Royal Albatross Centre on day trips of the Otago Peninsula from Dunedin. These include a number of other wildlife-oriented activities, such as sea lion and penguin watching, as the area is a haven for sea birds and animals.
Things to Know Before You Go
- It can get very cold and windy on the Otago Peninsula at any time of year, so take warm clothes with you.
- Albatrosses are wild animals and their behavior or location cannot be guaranteed on any given day.
- Guided tours of varying durations are available to suit your needs.
- There are also around 20 other bird species on the Otago Peninsula, so stay alert to spot them.
How to Get There
Many people visit the center on a guided tour from Dunedin. If traveling independently from Dunedin, follow the road along the Otago Peninsula to Taiaroa Head, at the end.
When to Get There
The Royal Albatross Centre is open daily (except Christmas Day) from 10:15am till dusk, with tours from 11am in summer and 10:30am in winter. The center is a good place to visit year-round. The Otago Peninsula experiences cool but sunny summers and cold winters.
Fort Taiaroa
Amid the scenic beauty of the Otago Peninsula is an old military fort. Fort Taiaroa was built in the 1880s because of fear of a Russian invasion. Visitors can see the Armstrong Disappearing Gun, which is the only one of its kind in the world in working order. A trip here can be added to a visit to the Royal Albatross Centre.
Address: Taiaroa Head, Otago Peninsula, Dunedin, New Zealand
From $ 84
Toitu Otago Settlers Museum
Recently refurbished, the Toitu Otago Settlers Musuem is a fascinating look at the life and times of Dunedin’s early settlers. Because of its sheltered, deep water port and fertile coastal plain, Dunedin was one of the South Island’s earliest places where Europeans settled. Arriving by boat in 1848, European settlers—predominantly Scottish—slowly began to build a community in the coastal Otago frontier, which exploded into hyper-growth when gold was found in the hills. From the time of the gold rush in 1861, Dunedin continued to serve as the center of life in Otago and the Southland, all of which is on display in this massive downtown museum. Aside from exhibits on European settlers, visitors will also find info relating to native South Island Maori, as well as a look at how Dunedin was New Zealand’s “First Great City.” At the Smith Gallery, look in the eyes of early settlers through the stunning collections of portraits, all of which feature early settlers from pre-1864. You’ll also find newer, more modern exhibits on Dunedin in the digital age, and this one of the city’s best activities on a cold or rainy day.
Practical Info
The Toitu Otago Settlers Museum is the oldest historical museum of its kind located anywhere in New Zealand. Founded in 1898, the museum is a must for any traveler with an interest in New Zealand history.
Address: 31 Queens Gardens, Dunedin 9016, New Zealand
Hours: Open daily 10am-5pm
From $ 20
Skyline Queenstown
Hang on tight! Skyline Queenstown affords the city’s best views, but the gondola ride isn’t for the faint of heart. Zipping up 1,475 feet (450 meters) to the top of Bob’s Peak takes about 10 minutes aboard the steepest gondola in the southern hemisphere. En route, enjoy 220-degree vistas of Queenstown, the Remarkables, Coronet Peak, and Lake Wakatipu. At the top, dine at the mountaintop Stratosfare Restaurant and Bar amid panoramic views while the Skyline Luge track—with two steepness options, one easy enough for kids—sends adventurous riders screaming on their return trip to the mountain’s base.
The Basics
The Skyline Queenstown complex offers single round-trip gondola tickets as well as combo tickets pairing the gondola and the luge and the gondola and a buffet-style lunch or dinner experience at the Stratosfare Restaurant and Bar. After the thrilling ride and stunning views, evening visitors can opt to experience a traditional Maori haka at the top of Bob’s Peak; tickets are bundled with the gondola return ride. Other Skyline activities include mountain biking and after-dark stargazing.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Alternate routes down the mountain include walking tracks in the Ben Lomond Reserve and mountain biking trails in the Queenstown Bike Park (in season)
- Family bundles—with return fare for two adults and a maximum of three kids—offer good cost savings
- Skyline stargazing tours must be booked at least 24 hours in advance
- Maximize your Queenstown experience with a discounted combo ticket for a gondola ride plus other local adventures, like skydiving, bungee jumping, a helicopter ride, a jet boat tour, or canyon swinging
- Kids under 3 feet 6 inches tall (110 centimeters) must ride in tandem with an adult
How to Get There
The Skyline Gondola is a few blocks northwest of downtown Queenstown on Lake Wakatipu. Follow Rees or Camp Streets west to Man Street, then at Brecon Street head up to base camp. The Skyline Gondola cars streaming up the peak are easy to spot from points around town.
When to Get There
The gondola operates 365 days a year, heading up the mountain from 9am to 8:45pm. It can be busy around midday and on weekends; to avoid crowds, make the trip in the late afternoon and before dinner. Because ride tickets aren’t timed, if you’re planning for lunch or dinner at the top, plan to depart 30 to 45 minutes prior to your reservation to make sure you arrive with plenty of photo-taking time to spare. Lunch reservations are available from noon to 1:45pm, while dinner runs between 5:30 and 8:45pm. The luge is open daily from 10am to 7pm.
The Kiwi Haka at the Top
The short (30- to 45-minute) but informative Kiwi Haka cultural performances are a nighttime highlight for many Skyline visitors. A half dozen Maori share their traditional culture through song, dance, and question-and-answer session in an intimate theater seating only 75 people. Audience participation is encouraged, and there are four nightly shows (at 5:15, 6, 7:15, and 8pm). For the best deal, book your tickets before your gondola ride up—the cost of the performance includes your round-trip transportation.
Address: Brecon St, Queenstown, South Island 9300, New Zealand
Hours: Daily from 9am
Admission: Varies
From $ 43
Underwater Observatory
One thing you won’t see when visiting Queenstown are snorkelers in Lake Wakatipu. Not only because the water is alarmingly cold (the average temperature is 48°F), but because the Underwater Observatory allows you to look beneath the lake without even getting your hair wet.
Located along Queenstown’s Main Town Pier, this KJet observatory boasts six large windows where trout, ducks, and 35-pound eels go swimming right past your face. Families with young children will love feeding the ducks and watching them dive for their food, or feeding the writhing schools of trout and watching the chaotic splashes.
Practical Info
The Underwater Observatory is in the center of Queenstown as is open daily from 8:30am until dusk. There is an admission fee of $5 for adults, $3 for children, or free admission to KJet passengers. Food for the ducks can be purchased on site for $1.
Address: Main Town Pier, Marine Parade, Queenstown, New Zealand
Hours: Open daily from 8:30 am until dusk.
Admission: Adults: $5; Children $3
From $ 77
Skippers Canyon
What was once gold-miners territory is now one of New Zealand’s most scenic tour destinations--with breathtaking mountain views and the always beautiful Shotover River, Skipper’s Canyon presents a great opportunity to splurge in fantastic sites of one of the most beautiful countries in the world.
Hop into a 4WD off-road vehicle available via one of the many guided tours and shoot photos to your hearts delight, while you are navigated through Skipper’s Road, being recited the canyons plentiful and rural history.
For a more romantic experience, Skipper’s wine tours are also a popular and fulfilling way to spend your time here. What could be better than enjoying Queenstown’s mouth-watering venison over a glass of locally made wine in the breadth of New Zealand? Feel free to explore the happening local art-scene on your way to gorgeous Gibbston Valley, take a scenic walk along the mountain road, or just spend your time relaxing at the wineries.
Since many visitors who come to Skipper’s Canyon are here for relaxation and the wonderful landscape, amenities for those who are physically limited are well off, with many services offering air-conditioned and quite comfortable minibus tours throughout the area, including picking you up from your accommodation.
Hop into a 4WD off-road vehicle available via one of the many guided tours and shoot photos to your hearts delight, while you are navigated through Skipper’s Road, being recited the canyons plentiful and rural history.
For a more romantic experience, Skipper’s wine tours are also a popular and fulfilling way to spend your time here. What could be better than enjoying Queenstown’s mouth-watering venison over a glass of locally made wine in the breadth of New Zealand? Feel free to explore the happening local art-scene on your way to gorgeous Gibbston Valley, take a scenic walk along the mountain road, or just spend your time relaxing at the wineries.
Since many visitors who come to Skipper’s Canyon are here for relaxation and the wonderful landscape, amenities for those who are physically limited are well off, with many services offering air-conditioned and quite comfortable minibus tours throughout the area, including picking you up from your accommodation.
Address: Skippers Rd, Queenstown 9300, New Zealand
From $ 95
St Paul's Anglican Cathedral
Set smack in the middle of Dunedin’s Octagon—and thereby the center of town—St. Paul’s Anglican Cathedral is unlike any other in New Zealand. First constructed in 1862, the cathedral endured an entire century of half-completed jobs, often because the building party eventually ran out of funds. Though the stone structure is still impressive, the multi-period styles of architecture created a noticeably curious look. The architectural oddities aside, the cathedral today isn’t known for looks, but rather, for its sound. Numerous professional musicians and singers have gotten their start in this choir, and the enormous organ with its 3,500 pipes is the Southern Hemisphere’s largest. On occasion, the cathedral will open around 1pm for a 20-minute concert, and the general public is welcome to attend and experience the holy acoustics. When the light is right, it falls through the stained glass of the large Dunedin Window, and Maori, Christian, and historical themes can be found in the colorful panes.
Practical Info
Services at the church are held on Sundays at 8 am, 10 am and 12:10 pm. For weekday concerts (most often on Tuesdays), there is a suggested donation of $5, but all visitors are free to enjoy without an official charge.
Address: The Octagon, Dunedin, New Zealand
Hours: Services are held on Sundays at 8 am, 10 am and 12:10 pm.
From $ 20
Willowbank Wildlife Reserve
Have a memorable hands-on meeting with New Zealand's unique animals at the Willowbank Wildlife Reserve. Mixing lighthearted entertainment with more serious conservation issues, there are Maori cultural performances in the evening and dinner packages combining a Taste NZ menu and guided tour.
Conservation is key at Willowbank, revealing the negative impact of settlement on New Zealand's wildlife and ecosystems, the lessons learned and the plans for the future.
Visitors meet endangered indigenous species, and learn about the conservation work that's ensuring their survival. Animals encountered include ostrich, emu, capuchin monkeys, turtles, lemurs and gibbons.
The farmyard heritage section of the wildlife park includes Clydesdale horses, pigs, goats and llamas.
Practical Info
Willowbank Wildlife Reserve is a 15-minute drive north of central Christchurch. The Christchurch Best Attractions Black Bus connects Willowbank with the city center throughout the day.
Address: 60 Hussey Road, Christchurch 8051, New Zealand
Hours: Open daily 9:30am - 10pm
Admission: Adults: NZ$25, Children: NZ$10
From $ 23
The Octagon
Few city centers are as unique as Dunedin’s. Known by the locals as the Octagon, this eight-sided plaza is a hub for residents—particularly when it comes to public transit. Travelers exploring Dunedin by bus or taxi will likely stop in the Octagon, since nearly all routes pass through this central location. The Octagon is also ripe for wandering, with the Dunedin Public Art Gallery, muliplex cinema and the Regent Theatre all within walking distance. Most of the bars and restaurants in the northeast quadrant of the Octagon offer outdoor dining, too, making it the perfect spot to enjoy a cold beer after a warm summer walk or grab a bite to eat before heading to a show.
Practical Info
The Octagon is located in the central business district of Dunedin. George Street is to the northeast of it and Princes Street to the southwest.
Address: George & Princes Street, Dunedin, New Zealand
From $ 20
Walter Peak High Country Farm
Experience the tranquility of New Zealand’s South Island farm life with a visit to Walter Peak High Country Farm, a working sheep and cow station. The remote farm sits across Lake Wakatipu from Queenstown, along a section of lakeshore largely inaccessible by car. To get there, you’ll take a ride across the lake aboard the TSS Earnslaw, a beautifully restored Edwardian steamship. An open viewing area lets you watch the original steam engines as they power the ship across the lake.
Once you’ve reached the farm, a guided tour takes you among highland cattle, deer, goats and sheep. You’ll also watch skilled sheepdogs corralling the herds before meeting and feeding the sheep up close and learning how to shear and spin their wool. Take a stroll through the lush gardens along the lakeshore before stopping at the Colonel’s Homestead to sip tea and eat scones around a roaring fire.
Practical Info
Walter Peak High Country Farm is open daily. The TSS Earnslaw runs three four-hour roundtrip runs daily from Queenstown. Tea and snacks at the Colonel’s Homestead are included in the tour, as are tea and coffee aboard the ship.
Address: Walter Peak High Country Farm, Queenstown, South Island, New Zealand
Hours: Daily
From $ 53
Taieri Gorge Railway
Taieri Gorge Railway isn't just a way of getting from Dunedin to Pukerangi. It’s an experience in itself. The train travels through the Central Otago landscape of hills and gorges, pastureland and forests. It follows part of the route of the historic Otago Central Railway, constructed in the late 19th century during Otago’s Gold Rush.
The Basics
The Taieri Gorge Railway is a scenic way to travel to Pukerangi and Middlemarch in Central Otago, or return to Dunedin on the same day for a relaxing and interesting day out. Along the way, hear live commentary narrating the history of the area, including exciting stories from the Otago Gold Rush. The observation carriage allows for the best views—just keep your arms in as you pass through tunnels that were built by hand more than 100 years ago.
Visitors can enjoy a ride on the Taieri Gorge Railway on its own or as part of a day of sightseeing in and around Dunedin. Combined day trips often include a tour of Dunedin city or a trip to spot wildlife out on the Otago Peninsula.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The railway travels 72 miles (116 kilometers).
- Trains have a dining cart on board, and you can even order a packed picnic box (or bring your own).
- The railway links up with the Otago Rail Trail cycle route through Central Otago, and it’s possible to take your bike on the train for a small fee.
- A mixture of modern and “heritage” carriages are available on board. State your preference when booking.
How to Get There
The Taieri Gorge Railway leaves from the Dunedin Railway Station, in central Dunedin. It’s a short walk from the Octagon.
When to Get There
In the summer (October to April), there are two trains daily, at 9:30am and 2:30pm from Dunedin. They run every day of the year, except Christmas Day. In the winter (May to October), there is just one train per day, leaving Dunedin at 12:30pm from Monday to Saturday, and 9:30am on Sundays. In both seasons, trains terminate at Pukerangi from Monday to Saturday and continue to Middlemarch on Sundays.
Travel New Zealand by Train
The Taieri Gorge Railway is one scenic train journey in New Zealand, but it’s far from the only one. You can travel quite extensively around New Zealand by train. The Coastal Pacific train travels from Picton to Christchurch, the TranzAlpine from Christchurch to Greymouth, and the Northern Explorer from Wellington to Auckland.
Address: 22 Anzac Avenue, Dunedin 9016, New Zealand
From $ 32
TranzAlpine Train
The TranzAlpine Train is New Zealand’s most spectacular train journey. It winds its way through the dramatic gorges and alpine forests of the Southern Alps, over staggering viaducts and dizzying mountain passes. From Christchurch on the East Coast to Greymouth on the West Coast, this almost 5-hour trip serves up endless photo opportunities as it runs through the heart of the South Island.
The Basics
It’s possible to complete the entire route from Christchurch to Greymouth on a full-day tour, while adventurous travelers can travel by train to Arthur's Pass National Park and then explore off-road on a 4WD safari or take a jet boat cruise along the Waimakariri River. For the best value, opt for a multi-day tour from Christchurch or Queenstown. This lets you combine a ride on the TranzAlpine with top New Zealand attractions such as Mount Cook, Milford Sound, the Fox Glacier, or the Franz Josef Glacier.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Large bags and suitcases must be checked into the baggage carriage, so pack a small day bag to take on board with you.
- Onboard facilities include restrooms, a café carriage, and an open-air viewing deck, as well as charging stations for laptops and phones.
- There’s time to get off and take in the views at some stations, so dress according to the weather and bring warm clothing as it can get chilly in the mountains.
- Wheelchair access is available at all stations.
How to Get There
You can ride the TranzAlpine Train in either direction, starting your journey at Christchurch or at Greymouth. Christchurch Railway Station is located in Addington, just west of downtown Christchurch or about six 6 miles (nine kilometers) southeast of Christchurch Airport.
When to Get There
The TranzAlpine runs daily with morning departures from Christchurch and afternoon departures from Greymouth. Trains run year-round, but it’s best to book ahead for the summer season as tickets can sell out.
Coast to Coast on the TranzAlpine Railway
Setting out from Christchurch, the TranzAlpine Train rolls through the Canterbury Plains and crosses the Waimakariri River Gorge toward Rolleston. After climbing into the Southern Alps, the railway crosses the famous “Staircase” viaduct, soars over Arthur’s Pass, and traverses the 5.3-mile (8.6-kilometer) Otira Tunnel. Finally, it chugs along the shores of Lake Brunner and through Moana to the final station in Greymouth.
Address: Christchurch Railway Station, Troup Drive, Addington, Christchurch 8024, New Zealand
Hours: Operates daily, 8:15am - 6:05pm
Admission: Varies
From $ 38
The Remarkables
New Zealand’s outdoor playground, the Remarkables, located high in mountainous country, possesses a great sense of excitement for any visitor looking to rip-up the alpines. With fabulous skiing, hiking, snowboarding and opportunities to just hangout, the entire family will get a kick from these majestic reserves.
Cool jumps, tunnels, trails, and even a bouncy castle at the crèche are available for children of all ages, while snow-sports schools are waiting for adults who have put off the slopes for too long.
You can also have a look at how the pros do it, with international competitions that take place. See boarders go sky-high off the half-pipes, or see renowned skier’s flow between slaloms at immense speeds.
Located just 26 miles south of Queenstown, the short 45-minute detour to the Remarkables is well worth your time. No car? No problem. Daily shuttle services are also available to and from Queenstown. You can also feel free to book one of the many available guided tours, which will take you though the nooks and crannies of the mountains’ valley’s and peaks.
Cool jumps, tunnels, trails, and even a bouncy castle at the crèche are available for children of all ages, while snow-sports schools are waiting for adults who have put off the slopes for too long.
You can also have a look at how the pros do it, with international competitions that take place. See boarders go sky-high off the half-pipes, or see renowned skier’s flow between slaloms at immense speeds.
Located just 26 miles south of Queenstown, the short 45-minute detour to the Remarkables is well worth your time. No car? No problem. Daily shuttle services are also available to and from Queenstown. You can also feel free to book one of the many available guided tours, which will take you though the nooks and crannies of the mountains’ valley’s and peaks.
Address: Otago 9793, New Zealand
From $ 21
Tasman Glacier
The Tasman Glacier is a geology lesson in action. The largest glacier in the Southern Alps, the massive sheet of ice is slowly flowing south along the eastern edge of Aoraki/Mount Cook.
The top of the glacier is covered in ice and snow, but its long lower stretch extending for kilometers is a jumbled mass of rocks and debris swept down from the melting peak.
It’s estimated that the Tasman Glacier is retreating between 477 to 822 meters (1,564 to 2,696 feet) each year; at that rate its days are numbered. Since the 1970s, the melting waters have collected in Lake Tasman at the foot of the glacier.
Practical Info
The Tasman Glacier spills into the north shore of Lake Tasman, 7 km (4.5 mi) north-east of Mount Cook Village. The glacier measures 29 km (18 mi) long, 4 km (2.5 mi) wide.
The best way to see the glacier is from a boat excursion on Lake Tasman.
Address: Old Ball Hut Road, Mount Cook 7946, New Zealand
Admission: Free
From $ 212
Sumner Beach
Even though a scant eight miles separate Sumner from the city center of Christchurch, this coastal suburb set right on the beach may as well be its own island. Sumner Beach is the de facto “beach town” that is associated with sprawling Christchurch, where bikini-clad sunbathers and wetsuit-clad surfers mingle on the golden shores. Sleepy in winter but pulsing in summer, Sumner is a hangout of sun-seekers and sportsmen who flock to the beach and the hills. Joggers and walkers stroll on the boardwalk which parallels the popular shore, and paragliders and mountain bikers play on the hills which rise just behind town.
A relaxing, slow-paced, agreeable outpost, when the large earthquake of 2011 triggered landslides in the surrounding hills, Sumner Beach and its associated community were almost completely cut off from the city. Though the road has been fixed and Sumner is accessible again, evidence of the earthquake is still evident in the massive rock piles by the coast.
Even though the town is known for its beach and its waves, there is more to Sumner than the sand, the boardwalk, and the throngs who play in the surf. Sumner is also home to a lively downtown where hip coffee shops and trendy clothing boutiques line the town’s main thoroughfare, and on a warm summer day you can dine outdoors and smell the salt on the breeze. It’s the welcoming simplicity of a small-town atmosphere amidst the urban bustle of the city, and given its infectious, coastal charm, Sumner Beach can definitely be considered as one of the top day trips from Christchurch.
Address: Sumner, New Zealand
From $ 91
Routeburn Track
The Routeburn Track, with its hidden lakes, neck‐craning waterfalls and rugged alpine scenery, has been heralded as one of the world's best hikes in one of the world's best settings. While such lofty titles are hard to live up to, from the moment you leave your first muddy bootprint on this 19.5‐mile (32‐km) route, it's apparent this trail across the Southern Alps is truly something special. Fittingly, the three-day Routeburn Track is listed as one of New Zealand’s famous 'Great Walks,' which have better facilities and higher fees than other backcountry hikes.
While there are campground facilities in addition to huts, most hikers elect to sleep at the huts, which offer cooking facilities, beds and the chance to unwind. At its northern trailhead, the Routeburn track begins by Glenorchy and Mt Aspiring National Park before snaking over the spine of the mountains toward Fiordland National Park. Though the trail only ascends to 4,100 feet, the surrounding mountains tower 9,000 feet and are often beautifully snowcapped—which only adds to a landscape dotted by waterfalls and alpine lakes. Due to heavy snowfall in winter, the season for hiking the Routeburn Track is from the end of October to April, with reservations absolutely necessary at least a month in advance.
Practical Info
The Routeburn Track begins at the Routeburn Shelter, about 30 minutes north of Glenorchy. On the southern end it finishes at The Divide, which is about 90 minutes from Te Anau. Since the Routeburn Trail is a point‐to‐point track you’ll need to arrange transport before starting the trail, since the road distance between start and finish is approximately 200 miles. Hut reservations are $54/adult per night, and camping sites are $18/adult per night—with both options free to ages 17 and under.
Address: New Zealand
Admission: $54/night for huts; $18/night for camping
From $ 124