New Zealand South Island Tours for Solo Travelers
How about cooking a kiwi meal with new friends, hiking to Mt Eden summit for Auckland views, and learning Maori culture and enjoying a Hangi lunch? Explore glow worm caves in Waitomo, and cruise through Fiordland National Park. New Zealand’s South Island delivers adventure and culture perfectly for singles traveling together, allowing you to make new friends effortlessly.
10 best New Zealand South Island solo travel packages
Compiled by
MelissaNew Zealand South Island travel expert at TourRadar
- Solo-ish New Zealand
- New Zealand South Island Express
- Journeys: Discover New Zealand National Geographic
- Southern Crossing - Small Group Tour
- Rhythm & Alps Festival (4 Days)
- Premium - South Island Escape
- New Zealand Southern Pioneer
- Southern Secrets - Small Group Tour
- 【New Zealand】13 Days New Zealand Grand North and South Island Tour Package
- New Zealand Panorama (Southbound)
The South Island beckons with shared experiences at Kaikoura's seal colonies and Franz Josef Glacier walks. Travelers forge bonds during Hokitika Gorge hikes and Fiordland cruises, while enjoying personal space in comfortable hotels throughout the southern region.
Duration 14 days Destinations Auckland, Rotorua, Waitomo, Kaikoura, Christchurch, Hokitika, Greymouth, Franz Josef, Queenstown, Fiordland National Park Age Range Ages 12+ Group Size Max Group Size 16 Group Type Group Room Type Singles, Shared Operator G Adventures From $5,089
25% Off- US$3,817You save $1,272
New Zealand South Island Express
9 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“Loved the whole trip. Our guide Duli was amazing he read our wishes from our lips and made them happen.”
Maximilian, traveled in August
A vibrant community awaits, with 85% solo travelers exploring South Island's beauty. Shared hostel dorms host stargazing at Lake Tekapo, Queenstown adventures, and Franz Josef glacier discoveries.
Duration 9 days Destinations Christchurch, Lake Tekapo, Queenstown, Kawarau Gorge, Milford Sound, Arrowtown, Wanaka, Lake Wanaka, Franz Josef, Lake HaweaSee all destinations Age Range Ages 18+ Group Size Max Group Size 16 Group Type Group Room Type Singles, Shared Operator Intrepid Travel From
25% Off- US$1,510
Journeys: Discover New Zealand National Geographic
9 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“The beauty of the the country and the tour organization made it fantastic.”
MONICA, traveled in November
The South Island route welcomes solo travelers (44% booking rate) with shared experiences like TranzAlpine train journey and Fiordland National Park cruise. Single rooms available in Queenstown and Franz Josef, with group activities fostering connections.
Duration 12 days Destinations Auckland, Waiheke Island, Waitomo, Rotorua, Christchurch, Arthur's Pass National Park, Lake Tekapo, Mount Cook, Wanaka, ArrowtownSee all destinations Age Range Ages 12+ Group Size Max Group Size 16 Group Type Group Room Type Singles, Shared Operator National Geographic Expeditions with G Adventures From $6,419
25% Off- US$4,814You save $1,605
Southern Crossing - Small Group Tour
1 Review by TourRadar travelers“Excellent south islamf tour going to the main spots!”
Nicolas, traveled in November
Duration 8 days Destinations Christchurch, Arthur's Pass National Park, Castle Hill Peak, Franz Josef, Lake Hawea, Wanaka, Queenstown, Te Anau, Milford Sound, Lake Tekapo Age Range Ages 18-49 Group Size Max Group Size 18 Group Type Group Room Type Shared Operator Kiwi Experience From
25% Off- US$1,152
The vibrant path from Queenstown to Wanaka calls to independent spirits. Fellow travelers unite over VIP festival access at Rhythm & Alps in Cardrona Valley, luxury glamping, and the thrill of optional bungy jumping at the historic Kawarau Bridge.
Duration 4 days Destinations Queenstown, Wanaka, Cardrona, Kawarau Gorge Age Range Ages 18-35 Group Size Max Group Size 52 Group Type Group Room Type Shared Operator Contiki From
25% Off- US$305+$255 upfront costs
Premium - South Island Escape
2 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“Everything is set safe in mind before my trip starts. This was my best experience with Tour Radar!”
YAJUAN, traveled in November
This small group tour for solo travelers (max 14 guests) takes you through Franz Josef Glacier, Milford Sound, and Lake Tekapo's Dark Sky Reserve. You'll stay in 3-4 star hotels with shared room options, including lakeside spots in Te Anau and rainforest retreats near Franz Josef.
Duration 7 days Destinations Christchurch, Lake Tekapo, Te Anau, Milford Sound, Queenstown, Franz Josef Age Range Ages 18+ Group Size Max Group Size 14 Group Type Group Room Type Shared Operator Wild Kiwi From
25% Off- US$2,391+$359 upfront costs
The South Island beckons solo travelers (67% of guests) with shared discoveries. Twin rooms complement visits to Lake Tekapo's lupins, Wanaka's #thatwanakatree, and Franz Josef's glacier. Activities include Mou Waho Island cruise and TranzAlpine train journey.
Duration 10 days Destinations Christchurch, Lake Tekapo, Lake Ohau, Twizel, Kawarau Gorge, Queenstown, Arrowtown, Wanaka, Lake Hawea, Lake WanakaSee all destinations Age Range Ages 15+ Group Size Max Group Size 16 Group Type Group Room Type Singles, Shared Operator Intrepid Travel From $3,920
10% Off- US$3,528You save $392
Southern Secrets - Small Group Tour
1 Review by TourRadar travelers“amazing it was! cool acitivities, good advices what to do/where to go and of course, many amazing people to meet!”
Ariana, traveled in February
Duration 8 days Destinations Christchurch, Kaikoura, Abel Tasman National Park, Hanmer Springs Age Range Ages 18-49 Group Size Max Group Size 18 Group Type Group Room Type Shared Operator Kiwi Experience From
10% Off- US$1,023
【New Zealand】13 Days New Zealand Grand North and South Island Tour Package
1 Review by TourRadar travelers“Was great and delightful tours organised very well.”
Madireddy, traveled in May
Duration 13 days Destinations Auckland, Waikato, Hobbiton Movie Set, Rotorua, Cathedral Cove, Hot Water Beach, Queenstown, The Remarkables, Te Anau, Fiordland National ParkSee all destinations Age Range All Ages Welcome Group Size Max Group Size 50 Group Type Group Room Type Singles, Shared Operator Delightful Travel From
10% Off- US$4,539
New Zealand Panorama (Southbound)
13 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“The accomodation was simple but really nice and the included breakfasts were great.”
Khayla, traveled in September
Adventure seekers connect on South Island excursions, from Kaikōura's marine encounters to Franz Josef's glacier hikes. Fellow explorers (average age 29) share experiences while staying at iconic locations like Mount Cook and Queenstown's adventure hub.
Duration 16 days Destinations Auckland, Waikato, Rotorua, Taupo, Wellington, Kaikoura, Picton, Christchurch, Arthur's Pass National Park, HokitikaSee all destinations Age Range Ages 18-35 Group Size Max Group Size 45 Group Type Group Room Type Singles, Shared Operator Contiki From $3,295
22% Off- US$2,565You save $730
What people love about touring New Zealand South Island solo
Callum was a fantastic tour guide he made our trip memorable beside the hickups he had to fix.
New Zealand South Island Express
- Journeys: Discover New Zealand National Geographic
great trip and tour of NZ
Best trip I'd ever been on! Susie was the best tour guide anyone could ask for!
New Zealand Panorama (Southbound)
What our customers ask about New Zealand South Island Tours for Solo Travelers
What's the typical single supplement cost for solo travelers on New Zealand South Island tours?
Solo travelers should expect to pay an additional USD 200-600 for single room supplements on South Island tours. The cost varies based on tour length and room quality. Higher-end properties like Heritage Queenstown set supplements around USD 300 while budget accommodations cost less. Budget-conscious travelers might want to look for tours using hostels and backpacker lodges which often have lower single supplements or roommate matching options.
Which South Island destinations are most popular with solo travelers?
Three destinations stand out among solo travelers. Queenstown draws visitors with its mix of daytime activities and evening social scene along Lake Wakatipu. At Franz Josef Glacier travelers join guided hikes and unwind in communal hot pools. Milford Sound's group boat tours create natural opportunities to connect with others while taking in the fjord landscapes. The Scenic Hotel Franz Josef serves as a social hub where travelers often gather to share stories from their day's adventures.
What's the best time of year for solo travelers to visit New Zealand's South Island?
Summer months from December through February see the highest number of solo travelers with nearly one-third of annual bookings. The warm weather and increased tour options create more chances to meet people. October-November and March-April offer good alternatives with mild temperatures and smaller crowds. Winter brings fewer visitors but creates perfect conditions for ski enthusiasts to connect on the slopes.
What transportation options work best for solo travelers on the South Island?
Guided tours typically use modern coaches equipped with WiFi and commentary systems particularly on routes to Milford Sound. The TranzAlpine railway between Greymouth and Christchurch gives travelers a chance to move around and chat with others while crossing the Southern Alps. Many solo travelers find these group transport options lead to natural conversations and shared experiences.
What are the most popular activities for solo travelers in New Zealand's South Island?
Group activities create natural ways to meet others while exploring. The Hooker Valley Track at Mount Cook draws hikers while Milford Sound cruises bring people together on deck. Wine tours through Central Otago vineyards and soaks in Lake Tekapo Springs' thermal pools give solo travelers easy ways to connect. Adventure activities in Queenstown from bungee jumping to jet boating often include group transportation making it easy to meet others with similar interests.
How safe is it for solo travelers on guided tours in the South Island?
The South Island's guided tours provide strong safety networks for solo travelers. Companies like Contiki and G Adventures use established accommodations such as the Hokitika Beachfront Hotel and maintain clear safety protocols. Guides create buddy systems for activities while offering 24-hour support. The combination of professional oversight structured itineraries and well-vetted accommodations helps solo travelers focus on enjoying their experience.
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