New Zealand: discover the southern island

One of New Zealand’s most scenic and well-known destinations and conveniently situated on the route between Christchurch and Queenstown, Lake Tekapo is a must for those visiting the country. The turquoise lake is surrounded by snow-capped mountains, and being far from any light pollution means that the area is one of the best to experience a clear and star-studded sky - even being declared an International Dark Sky Reserve. Take a hike through one of the surrounding trails and be sure to stay the night.

The second largest city of the country’s South Island and with a recognisable Scottish heritage, Dunedin is a cultural hub. Known as The Edinburgh of the South, Dunedin prides itself on its history and friendly locals. Being a student city and home to New Zealand’s oldest University of Otago means that there is a lively atmosphere and vibrant arts scene within the heart of its compact city centre. Surrounded by a harbour and hills, remnants of an extinct volcano, as well as suburbs boasting sandy beaches, Dunedin is sure to charm its visitors.

Invercargill, the most southerly city in New Zealand, was built in the late 19th and early 20th century, and its wide streets and century old buildings give the visitor a unique feeling of stepping back in time to when business was conducted in a more sedate and considered manner and the streets were (figuratively) paved with Central Otago gold. Invercargill is the main centre of the Southland region, and the service city for the farms of the fertile Southland plains. It is also the most westerly city in New Zealand, due to the South Island's south-west and north-east axis.

The gateway to New Zealand’s Fiordland and with a picturesque location on the shores of its second largest lake, the township of Te Anau is a destination in its own right. Surrounded by rugged snow-peaked mountains and remote forests, home to the rare Takahe bird, it also offers a decent range of restaurants and bars. The main stop en-route to Milford Sound, Te Anau is an ideal base for those travelling one of the most-visited and scenic areas of New Zealand.

Widely known as the ‘adventure capital of the world’ and for good reason, Queenstown is a haven for adrenaline junkies. The birthplace of the bungee-jump, the city draws in visitors year-round to experience its exciting attractions. In spite of this, Queenstown offers something for everyone, boasting spectacular views from its harbour or from the top of Bob’s Peak which can be reached with the Skyline Gondola. By night, the compact centre offers excellent dining options as well as lively nightlife.

Long known as Queenstown’s smaller and less interesting sibling, Wanaka has now become a popular destination in its own right. With similar lake and mountain scenery but a calmer and more laid-back atmosphere, days in Wanaka can be spent exploring the outdoors and pursuing its many adventure activities while at night time visitors can enjoy new restaurants and quirky bars. The surrounding Mount Aspiring National Park offers walking trails and in Winter the town is also a popular ski destination.

The livelier neighbour of the quieter Fox Glacier, the village of Franz Josef is situated at the base of a spectacular World Heritage Area and is overlooked by Mount Cook. Due to the thinning ice the Glacier has retreated and now sits further inland, although it’s still accessible by a helicopter ride in order to experience the spectacular views. In addition to the glacier itself, the area offers impressive walking trails, hot pools and adventure sports as well as being surrounded by a number of lakes, rivers and waterfalls.

The largest town on New Zealand’s West Coast and set on the aptly named Grey River, Greymouth is best known for its gold-mining and jade industries. The nearby adventure activities such as rafting and caving are worth joining, and the surrounding nature trails offer excellent walks. Sample beer from the famed local brewery, Monteith’s, and learn about the town’s industrial roots in the local museum.

Set in a stunning area of New Zealand’s South Island, Nelson is a vibrant city situated in close proximity to the region’s many national parks and beaches. It is home to a thriving creative scene, with an annual Arts Festival taking place every October, as well as many galleries featuring the work of local artists and craftspeople. One of New Zealand’s oldest, sunniest and most liveable cities, Nelson offers a diverse range of attractions for those looking to explore the surrounding nature or enjoy the culture.

Boasting the title of one of the sunniest towns in New Zealand, Blenheim is an agricultural town now famed for its growing wine industry. A sleepy and quiet yet redeveloped town set within the beautiful Wairau Plains, Blenheim is worth visiting for those looking to enjoy the temperate climate and visit one of the many vineyards of the region.

A coastal town situated on the South Island, Kaikoura is set on a picturesque landscape backed by snow-capped mountains and clear blue waters which lead into the Pacific Ocean. Known for its abundant population of sperm whales as well as other marine life, the area is also part of a sustainable development approach which aims to protect its diverse wildlife. The town itself is small and relaxed yet bustling with life, with a small selection of restaurants where visitors can sample the town’s speciality of Crayfish.

Christchurch is a unique city that blends its rapid redevelopment and innovation with a vibrant culture and rich heritage. The largest city on New Zealand’s South Island, Christchurch’s flourishing and pedestrianised city centre is filled with lush botanic gardens and trees, and is a gateway to explore the nearby epic nature. Just a short drive away are the hidden bays and beaches of the Banks Peninsula, as well as Arthur’s Pass and Lake Tekapo.