2024 South Island Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in December)

#自车游 #100 ways to travel New Zealand, a vast country, should be the best place for self-driving travel. Although it is a right-hand drive, there are few cars, few traffic lights, and few forked roads. The destination scenic spots usually have one road to the end, and you can enjoy the beautiful scenery along the way, such as It’s really comfortable to travel by car. You can even rent a campervan to drive. It saves money to stay in a campervan and you can experience nature up close. This self-driving tour of the South Island of New Zealand is to rent a car from Christchurch and go all the way south to Queenstown. A four-seater car can be rented and returned without looking back. Encountered many beautiful towns and attractions along the way: Lake Tekapo, Mount John Observatory, Wanaka Tree, Te Anau Glowworm, Milforth Sound, Fox Glacier, Arrowtown, Glenorchy, Vineyards, wineries, gold mining towns, etc. The biggest advantage of traveling by car in New Zealand is that you can enjoy the beautiful scenery when you see it, and there are usually parking lots at the scenic spots. No matter how much shopping luggage you have, you don’t have to worry about carrying it yourself. It is very convenient to just leave it in the car. New Zealand is really a paradise for camping and self-driving tours! #New ZealandSouth IslandSelf-Driving #New ZealandTravel #Self-Driving Travel #100 Ways to Travel

During our road trip across New Zealand's South Island, we noticed numerous grasslands along the way. The grasslands in New Zealand's South Island can be categorized into several distinct types, each defined by the local climate, altitude, and land use. 🌟 Tussock Grasslands are dominated by native tussock grasses, which are hardy, tufted grasses well-adapted to the region’s dry and cool conditions. 🌟 Alpine Grasslands are found at high altitudes, usually above 1,200 meters. 🌟 Lowland Grasslands are located in lower altitude areas and primarily used for agriculture, including dairy farming and sheep grazing. 🌟 Semi-Arid Grasslands occur in areas with low rainfall and are characterized by sparse vegetation, including drought-resistant tussocks and shrubs. #grassland #100WaysOfTravel #newzealand #roadtrip #nature #tripblazers #grasslands

I recently had the opportunity to visit the South Island in all its glory. I can honestly say, there is certainly enough to keep you busy, and the variety of the South Island is out of this world. I headed to the South Island in Feb, which is springtime in New Zealand. It’s a brilliant time to visit, as the weather is warming up and the season is only just getting started, which also means fewer tourists.

1 week self drive campervan, one way from Christchurch to Queenstown. Stopover in Lake Tekapo to see magnificent Lupin flower that bloom during summer. Stay for 2 nights in Mount Cook to hike Hooker Valley Track and Mueller Hut Track. After that proceed to Wanaka for 2 nights to visit Lavender field with many day trip available. Subsequently 2 nights in Queenstown with town with mountain backdrop and manuka flower in sight. After return the rented campervan, We also joined a day trip to Milford sound to a short cruise around Fjord1 week self drive campervan, one way from Christchurch to Queenstown. Stopover in Lake Tekapo to see magnificent Lupin flower that bloom during summer. Stay for 2 nights in Mount Cook to hike Hooker Valley Track and Mueller Hut Track. After that proceed to Wanaka for 2 nights to visit Lavender field with many day trip available. Subsequently 2 nights in Queenstown with town with mountain backdrop and manuka flower in sight. After return the rented campervan, We also joined a day trip to Milford sound to a short cruise around Fjord. #queenstown #mountcook #newzealandtrip

New Zealand's beauty is beyond words. You have to see it to believe it. Once you do, you'll wonder how you ever lived without it! What to bring: ✅ Warm, breathable clothing ✅ Sunglasses (a must-have) - the ice reflects the sun and can be very bright. If you forget to bring them, you can buy them at the scenic area reception. ✅ Sunscreen (for UV protection) ✅ Camera or phone (you'll want to take photos!) ✅ Closed shoes (hiking boots are best, but sneakers are also fine. Make sure they're non-slip.) 🟢 [Popular North Island Destinations] ✔️ Waitomo Glowworm Caves ✔️ Hobbiton ✔️ Agrodome ✔️ Redwoods Treewalk ✔️ Hell's Gate . 🟢 [Popular South Island Destinations] ✔️ Milford Sound ✔️ Kaikoura Whale Watching ✔️ Queenstown ✔️ Tekapo (stargazing) ✔️ Wanaka's "Lone Tree" 3️⃣ Must-have list: 🪪: ID, passport, visa - make sure they're valid! 💰: NZD cash for emergencies, credit card 📷: Bring a camera! Wear bright colors for great photos! 💆‍♀️: Sunscreen!!! The UV rays are strong, so make sure you protect yourself! Bring face masks and lip balm to keep your skin hydrated - it's very dry! ⚠️ Don't forget a power adapter!!! This is a must-have! ⛰️ [Things to Note] 💎 Bring plenty of water, energy drinks, and high-calorie food 💎 Bring hiking boots, hiking poles, sunscreen, a sun hat, and other gear 💎 It's windy and cold at the top of the mountain, so bring a windproof, warm coat 💎 Collect your trash and don't pollute the environment

My amazing New Zealand trip (South island) 🇳🇿 7 days “Queenstown” and wonderful Road trip 🚗 Day1-3, Exploring Queenstown and Arrowtown (Skyline and Ludge activities and Zipline) Day 4-5: Wanaka tree lake and Lavender farm (Jet Ride boat) Day 6-7 : “Mount cook” with a stunning view of mountain and “Lake tekapo” with incredible and beautiful Lupins flowers 🪻🌷 It was one of most memorable trip and holiday 2024, definitely highly recommend to go check it out if you plan to go on a holiday and love beautiful nature and landscape New Zealand, Queenstown is a must visit 💖🇳🇿

Best camp ground near Lake Tekapo and best of all, it’s free! #newzeland

Mount Cook, also known as Aoraki/Mount Cook, is New Zealand’s highest mountain, standing at 3,724 meters (12,218 feet). Located in the Southern Alps of the South Island, it’s part of the Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, which is renowned for its dramatic alpine scenery, glaciers, and world-class hiking and mountaineering. Aoraki/Mount Cook is the tallest mountain in New Zealand and a symbol of the country’s rugged natural beauty. It’s a dream destination for climbers, hikers, and outdoor enthusiasts, offering challenging terrains as well as easier scenic walks.Aoraki is a sacred mountain to the Ngāi Tahu Māori tribe. According to Māori legend, Aoraki was the name of a boy who, along with his brothers, turned into stone, forming the mountain after their canoe became stranded on a reef and tilted skyward. The mountain holds deep spiritual significance, and the name Aoraki was officially added to Mount Cook in 1998 as part of a settlement between the New Zealand government and the Ngāi Tahu. Aoraki/Mount Cook is not only a paradise for outdoor adventurers but also a place of awe-inspiring beauty, cultural significance, and natural wonder. Whether you’re hiking, climbing, or simply taking in the views, it’s one of New Zealand’s most iconic and breathtaking destinations.

Wharariki Beach, located on the northern tip of New Zealand’s South Island near Cape Farewell, is one of the country’s most dramatic and stunning beaches. Famous for its wind-swept sand dunes, sea caves, and iconic rock formations, Wharariki Beach offers a wild and remote experience that feels otherworldly. Wharariki Beach is often described as wild and untamed. The beach is vast and exposed, with powerful winds constantly shaping the sand dunes. The windswept landscape, combined with the rugged coastline, creates a sense of isolation and raw natural beauty that is unique to this part of New Zealand. Due to the wild nature of the beach, the surf at Wharariki Beach is rough and dangerous, making it unsuitable for swimming. The powerful waves and strong currents mean visitors should enjoy the beauty of the beach from the shore. However, the beach is perfect for long walks, exploring sea caves, and discovering hidden rock formations. There are no facilities on Wharariki Beach itself, which helps maintain its remote and wild character. However, nearby Puponga and Collingwood offer accommodation options, including holiday parks, cottages, and lodges. The lack of development on the beach makes it a great spot for those seeking peace and natural beauty without the distractions of modern amenities. Wharariki Beach is a truly unique destination that offers an unforgettable experience for nature lovers, photographers, and those looking for an off-the-beaten-path adventure. Its wild landscapes, iconic rock formations, and abundant wildlife make it one of New Zealand's most spectacular coastal treasures.

😉 Winter has arrived in China, but we can't help but miss the vibrant spring 🥹. So, why not travel to New Zealand and embrace the spring season 💐. ✨ The South Island is dotted with lakes and majestic glaciers 💧; the North Island is home to hot springs and charming volcanoes. Both places exude irresistible charm and are super fun to visit!! —— 🙌🏻 North Island: ▫️ Hobbiton 🇳🇿 This is the filming location of the movies "The Hobbit" and "The Lord of the Rings" 📍. When you step into this land, it's like walking into a fairy tale world. The immersive feeling is simply indescribable 🍬. ▫️ Te Anau Glowworm Caves The Te Anau Glowworm Caves are truly magical! Here, you can fully appreciate the beauty of nature. You can also explore the complex limestone passages, whirlpools, and underground waterfalls in the cave 🧊. Imagine sailing into a cave with thousands of glowworms, the scene is simply dreamy ✨. —— 🙌🏻 South Island: ▫️ Fox Glacier Hiking Adventure The Fox Glacier is winding and long, a 12-kilometer-long maritime glacier 💧. There is a professional helicopter shuttle service. After flying over the dense tropical rainforest to reach the glacier, you can start an exciting glacier adventure 😆. It's really great! ▫️ Queenstown Skydiving Experience Wow, it feels so good to fulfill a wish! Skydiving has always been my little wish 🫧, and now it has finally come true in Queenstown. Jumping from the cabin door, the thrill brought by the speed is simply irresistible 🤣, it's so cool! ▫️ Milford Sound Day Experience Milford Sound is one of the most famous attractions in New Zealand 1️⃣! Take a bus and cruise to explore the fjord, the beautiful scenery is really breathtaking 🥰. You can see mountains, waterfalls, and rare animals 🦒. 💕 Dear friends, come to New Zealand to experience the unique beauty of the off-season! I believe you will fall in love with this place. 😘

#travelanywhere

New Zealand ■Which month is good to travel to? If you want to have better weather and lower costs when traveling in New Zealand, the off-season months with good value for money are November, December, March, April and May. About climate The South Island of New Zealand is close to the Antarctic. It has cold winters and warm summers and autumns, which are suitable for outdoor sports. The climate of the North Island is warmer and the changes in the four seasons are not obvious, but more people go to the South Island. 13-May: Autumn in New Zealand, a good season~ The trees turn red and yellow one after another, and you can see the colorful scenery of the forest. After May, autumn just begins! It’s a great photo tour. February 26-August: The winter world of ice and snow has officially arrived. Although the weather is cold, the sunshine is good. You can enjoy the snow-capped mountain scenery and there is a certain chance of seeing the Aurora. March 12-February: The peak season of the year, the temperature is very comfortable, and more people come than in other months. 4 September-November: Spring is the season when flowers are in full bloom, but there are strong winds from time to time, and the climate changes rapidly. A must-visit place in the South Island Christchurch, a French-style town of Akaroa and Shamarra Alpaca Farm Queenstown is a paradise for extreme sports, focusing on eating, drinking and having fun. 3 Arrowtown is suitable for citywalk, and it feels so good in autumn. Wanaka is a quiet and comfortable town, and there is also a "lonely tree". Lake Tekapo is surrounded by lupine flowers and fried chicken. Beautiful Lake Pukaki has a perfect location to see Mount Cook, and the Tiffany blue lake water South Island 8-day self-driving route arrangement Monte Cristo-Arthur Valley National Park-Greymouth Hokitika Jade Town - Ross Town - Joseph Town - Fox Town Wanaka and Queenstown in one stone Participated in the Steamboat Parade and Ten Farm Show, strolled around Queenstown and went to the Skyline Sky Cable Car Stay in Queenstown for a day, Dante City District and Mount Cook Glacier in Omaruk The best strategy~ You can start your comfortable trip to New Zealand immediately. There are many RV campsites by any lake in New Zealand. Park the car by the lake, with the window facing the snow-capped mountains Lying in the car and watching the snowy mountains and lakes is very beautiful and comfortable~

Christchurch

#freehotelstay #roadtrip #newzealand #backtonature

Near Antarctica, the South Island of New Zealand is an excellent place to watch the aurora. Unlike the mainly green aurora in the north, the southern aurora adds gorgeous colors of orange, yellow, and pink. Before your eyes, the aurora changes in countless ways, bright and dark, beautiful and mysterious, making people can't help but exclaim: even the best painter cannot depict such a dazzling and unforgettable night!

The South Island of New Zealand is one of the two main islands that make up New Zealand. It is located in the south of New Zealand, separated from the North Island by the Cook Strait to the north, facing Stewart Island across the Foveaux Strait to the south. It is 1600 kilometers west of Australia and borders Tonga and Fiji to the east. The South Island coastline is 6,900 kilometers long and has many beautiful beaches. From Cape Farewell in the north to Bluff in the south, it is 840 kilometers apart, and the widest east-west distance is 336 kilometers. The total area of the island is 154,037 square kilometers, making it the largest island in New Zealand and the twelfth largest island in the world. The Southern Alps on the west coast of the South Island are the largest mountainous area in New Zealand, with Mount Cook being the highest peak at 3,754 meters above sea level. There are narrow plains along the eastern coast, with the Canterbury Plains being the most important. In Maori, the South Island is called "Te Wai Pounamu", which means "greenstone water" in Chinese. Thought.

New Zealand is one of the best starry sky photography destinations in the world. The air is transparent and one of the least polluted countries in the world. We went to a secret place in the South Island where few people set foot. Going to Lake Brenner, the stars are especially beautiful at night. The Southern Hemisphere's Big Small Magellanic Cloud is clearly visible The top is the Big Small Magellanic Cloud

After lunch, we will drive to Lake Tikapo! The car is driving along the pastures and mountains of the South Island. It is a bit like Qinghai, but it is still very eye-catching. Unlike Qinghai, there are many long trees on the grass, dotted with grasslands. The town that stops midway is very, very quiet, and there are no people on the street or in the shops. All the way to continue, slowly began to appear Lu Binghua on the roadside, I began to scream, friends said not to call now, I have to call you haha. The car drove a street sign with Tikapo, and suddenly there was a blue lake next to it! Lake Tikapo, surrounded by snow-capped mountains, is like a drop of blue tears, and the side of the ice is swaying, really like a fairyland! !

Where is the most beautiful autumn color? In New Zealand, God gave New Zealand the most beautiful autumn colors. New Zealand is in the southern hemisphere and is defined as the autumn months of March, April and May. New Zealand has a wide variety of plants. In the autumn, a variety of deciduous plants are replaced with light green, light yellow, golden, orange, peach, deep red and even purple autumn clothes. If you are a photography enthusiast, or just love nature People who love the beauty, New Zealand's colorful autumn colors will definitely make you feel worthwhile. Participation in outdoor activities in March will not be too cold, but the heyday of the deciduous plants is in April. Because the annual temperature changes are slightly different, the peak period of leaf color change will be slightly different, and more concentrated in the middle and late April.

Te anau in the South Island of New Zealand is a paradise for hikers, with three great walks gathering here. The towns late autumn is quiet and feminine. After completing the walk on the Milford Trail, I went back to the town for a little rest, and I was so idle for a long time at the lake. Because of the dry season, the lakeside yacht trestle in Te anua town has been quiet. Sitting on the trestle, the ear is not far away. Some people give the blind girl a low-pitched reading of the novel. Occasionally, people and dogs pass by. Until the time of the day, several young people are standing on the trestle and encouraging each other to jump into the lake. In the middle, there is no one to act. I picked up the camera and shouted at them in the backlight: "Jump, it will be perfect!" So, they jumped and shouted at me: "Water is cold, you can jump." I immediately shouted back: "Not today", we suddenly laughed, and the laughter broke the silence of the twilight, and the light disappeared between the words.