New Zealand's South Island is very different from it's brother to the north.  For starters, it is the larger of the two land masses, measuring 150,437 kilometers, and has far less of a population density, approximately 25% of New Zealand's residents.  It is home to the amazing southern alps, which flows down the entire isle.  The grandeur of the alps is something that must be experienced in person with the highest elevation being Mount Cook (12,218 feet).  Like North Island, the south has stunning beaches, rain forests, and glaciers that you can visit. 

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Crave some winter activities?   South Island is home to approximately 25 ski areas and resorts.  If you are not looking for down hill adventures, don't worry you can find a number of different activities that may better suit your fancy that include sightseeing, adventure tourism (glacier climbing and bungee jumping), hiking, kayaking and biking just to name a few.  If instead you would rather experience some national parks, South Island provides a number of different options that you can choose.  Some of the most popular include: Fieordland National Park, Abel Tasman National Park, Westland National Park, Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, and the Marlborough Sounds.

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Interested in more of an urban experience?  South Island has a few cities and towns you may be interested in seeing.  Christchurch is the largest city on the island with a population of 341,469 inhabitants.   Known as the "Garden City", the area has beautiful gardens, parks, and tree lined streets.   While you are there be sure to check out Hagley Park and the 75-acre Christchurch Botanic Gardens located in the central city.   Like to check out the park from the water, try punting down the Avon River.  Tours are available if your interested.....

 

Whether you are an outdoor extremist, nature junkie, or just looking for a low key site seeing or a great culinary experience, South Island has it all waiting for you.   Give us a call and let's see what we can do to plan the perfect adventure.

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Find out more ways below to complete your holiday down under or better yet give us a call today so we can help you with more ideas in planning your dream trip!  If you are interested in reviewing some things to do while you are there, go check out our affiliated partner's site (powered by Viator) by clicking here.