New Zealand South Island Tours & Trips
4.5 stars on(7,523 reviews)- Choose from 200+ New Zealand South Island tours
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Table of contents
- The best New Zealand South Island tour packages
- What people love about New Zealand South Island Tours
- Travel New Zealand South Island your way
- Top operators in New Zealand South Island
- Discover New Zealand South Island tours for every budget
- New Zealand South Island tours for every group
- Top New Zealand South Island travel itineraries to fit your plans
- Demographics
- Best time to visit New Zealand South Island
- Contact our New Zealand South Island travel experts
The best New Zealand South Island tour packages
Compiled by
MelissaNew Zealand South Island travel expert at TourRadar
New Zealand: South Island Encompassed
26 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“Great trip, highly recommend as a fun way to see the South Island.”
Julie, traveled in February 2019
Mega Sale
The South Island unfolds from glaciers to fjords, featuring Franz Josef, Milford Sound cruising, and Queenstown's adventures. Unique accommodations include wilderness lodges and Christchurch's converted jail during this 16-day journey with most meals included.
Duration 16 days Destinations Wellington, Abel Tasman National Park, Westport, Paparoa National Park, Franz Josef, Queenstown, Milford Sound, Te Anau, Christchurch, KaikouraSee all destinations Age Range 18 to 39 year olds Operated in English Operator G Adventures From $2,799
10% Off- US$2,519You save $279
NZ Adventure 17 Day
20 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“NZ is the most beautiful country I have ever visited. We went in their winter, so whilst it was cold I think it made everything look so much more incredible.”
Mike, traveled in July 2023
Mega Sale
The South Island reveals its beauty from Christchurch to Queenstown. Mount Cook's Hooker Valley track beckons hikers, while Lake Wanaka offers kayaking adventures and Milford Sound showcases majestic fjords. Jet boating thrills and Southern Alps views complement included accommodation and internal flights.
Duration 17 days Destinations Auckland, Rotorua, Taupo, Wellington, Christchurch, Lake Tekapo, Wanaka, Milford Sound, Queenstown Age Range 18 to 45 year olds Operated in English Operator INTRO Travel From $2,849
10% Off- US$2,564You save $284
Southern Voyager
108 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“Absolutely amazing! The group were amazing and this trip will be one of the biggest highlights of my year living in New Zealand!”
Molly, traveled in November 2023
Seven days of South Island wonders stretch from Lake Tekapo's starlit skies to Milford Sound's dramatic fiords. Queenstown's adventure hub, Franz Josef's glaciers, and Mount Cook's alpine terrain await, with centrally located hostels rated 4+ out of 5.
Duration 7 days Destinations Christchurch, Lake Tekapo, Queenstown, Milford Sound, Franz Josef Age Range 18 to 39 year olds Operated in English Operator Wild Kiwi From
10% Off- US$1,023+$153 upfront costs
New Zealand – South Island Multisport
1 Review by TourRadar travelers“The itinerary, guide's knowledge and organization were very good. Our interests during these activities were also not that of the other travelers.”
Chantal, traveled in November 2019
Mega Sale
South Island's natural treasures range from Abel Tasman's coastal trails to Milford Sound's fjords. The Routeburn Track welcomes trekkers, while Mount Cook region offers cycling adventures and Franz Josef Glacier beckons explorers. Mixed hotels and hostels accommodate guests, with 12 included breakfasts.
Duration 15 days Destinations Christchurch, Kaikoura, Abel Tasman National Park, Nelson, Marahau, Franz Josef, Wanaka, Queenstown, Twizel Age Range up to 90 year olds Operated in English Operator G Adventures From $4,399
20% Off- US$3,519You save $879
Quest Hotel Queenstown and Punga View Franz Josef serve as bases for South Island adventures. The Milford Mariner cruise glides through Milford Sound, while Franz Josef Glacier spans 12km. Arthur's Pass unfolds via TranzAlpine train, complemented by Crown Range drives and Lake Wakatipu shores.
Duration 14 days Destinations Queenstown, Milford Sound, Franz Josef, Greymouth, Christchurch, Wellington, Auckland Age Range 8 to 74 year olds Operated in English Operator Australia and New Zealand Travel Company From
20% Off- US$2,787
What people love about New Zealand South Island Tours
New Zealand is even more stunning than expected. Every day on this trip took us to entirely different landscapes, from stunning cliffs and rivers, to beaches and ocean views, to rainforests and open farmland, it has everything. It really does feel like you've stepped in Middle Earth. Our G Adventures guides (Auto and Lucy, normally just 1 guide on the tours though!) were brilliant and looked after absolutely everything for us. They knew all the best local spots for drinks and food, and helped each individual member arrange EXACTLY the activities they wanted to do (No easy feat, the list of options in Queenstown alone is crazy!). You can do just about anything you imagine here; I went white water rafting, flying a plane, swimming in the ocean with 200 wild dolphins, quad biking and more. If you want to jump out of a plane or off a bridge, that's obviously an option too, enjoy! ;) Couldn't recommend the tour higher!
New Zealand: South Island Encompassed
- New Zealand: South Island Encompassed
Great tour to experience 2 weeks of the highlights of the South island
- New Zealand: South Island Encompassed
Great trip, highly recommend as a fun way to see the South Island.
Travel New Zealand South Island your way
Explore a wide diversity of tours through New Zealand South Island. We have 22 adventures that vary from 4 days to 25 days. With the greatest number of departures in November, this is also the most popular time of the year.
See all Hiking & Trekking toursSearch for the ultimate Active tour in New Zealand South Island! From hiking excursions to water sports, there are 31 private, group and tailor-made adventures to choose from. With some of our much-loved tour operators offering all-inclusive activity packages, you’re sure to find your perfect New Zealand South Island adventure!
See all Active toursExplore a wide diversity of bicycle tours through New Zealand South Island. We have 16 adventures that vary from 4 days to 14 days. With the greatest number of departures in March, this is also the most popular time of the year.
See all Bicycle toursExplore a wide diversity of coach / bus tours through New Zealand South Island. We have 29 adventures that vary from 3 days to 23 days. With the greatest number of departures in March, this is also the most popular time of the year.
See all Coach / Bus tours
More travel styles:
Top operators in New Zealand South Island
- 5.0 (22,793 reviews)
"Excellent tour. Definitely recommend
- Tours
- 4 tours
- Age range
- 12 to 90 years old
- Adventure type
- Explorer
- Response time
- 2h
- Response rate
- 76%
- Average price
- $479
- 5.0 (15,752 reviews)
"Our leader Danny was so welcoming and really looked after us. I really enjoyed my time in New Zealand!
- Tours
- 4 tours
- Age range
- 18 to 55 years old
- Adventure type
- Active
- Response time
- 27h
- Response rate
- 92%
- Average price
- $388
- 4.5 (202 reviews)
"Amazing your. Super professional and well organized. Packs a lot into 7 days but it was perfect for people trying to pack a lot in and see a lot in a short amount of time. Tegan was the best!!! Knew so much and spoke so passionately about New Zealand and Māori culture. Was so nice to learn. And she is just the best
- Tours
- 5 tours
- Age range
- 18 to 100 years old
- Adventure type
- Active
- Response time
- 17h
- Response rate
- 88%
- Average price
- $470
Discover New Zealand South Island tours for every budget
Our most popular 17-day South Island tour makes your money work harder by including activities that usually cost extra - you'll explore Waitomo's glowworm caves, sail Lake Taupo and cruise through Milford Sound without reaching for your wallet. Travelers tell us they love how much they get to see while keeping costs in check. If you're watching your budget, several tours combine the TranzAlpine train with visits to Fox and Franz Josef glaciers. A well-rated 7-day option lets you experience Queenstown's energy at a good price - you'll jet boat through canyons and still have time to explore independently. For quick trips, our 3-4 day regional tours focusing on places like Aoraki/Mt Cook or Doubtful Sound pack in guided walks and cultural experiences without the premium price tag.
The details really shine on luxury South Island journeys. There's this excellent 9-day tour where you'll dine at Walter Peak High Country Farm after crossing Lake Wakatipu on a vintage steamship. Another upscale option pairs TranzAlpine train travel with premium hotels, giving you time to explore Christchurch's creative rebuilding and taste wines in the Waipara Valley. Our clients particularly love waking up on Milford Sound - you'll spend the night in private cabins on luxury vessels, surrounded by waterfalls at dawn. These tours come with expert naturalist guides and meals that showcase local ingredients really well.
New Zealand South Island budget tours
New Zealand South Island tours for every type of group
Who are you traveling with?
Group
177 tours in New Zealand South IslandExplore a wide diversity of group tours through New Zealand South Island. We have 179 adventures that vary from 2 days to 25 days. With the greatest number of departures in March, this is also the most popular time of the year.
Small Group
59 tours in New Zealand South IslandVisit New Zealand South Island with fewer travelers, ensuring more immersive activities.
Private / Personalized
35 tours in New Zealand South IslandEnjoy the exclusivity of our Private New Zealand South Island tours, tailored to your own group, preferences and pace with over 35 itineraries to choose from.
Top New Zealand South Island travel itineraries to fit your plans
Queenstown, Te Anau, Doubtful Sound
Christchurch, Punakaiki, Lewis Pass, Abel Tasman National Park, Nelson, Marlborough, Kaikoura
See all tours
Christchurch, Lake Tekapo, Mount Cook, Wanaka, Arrowtown, Te Anau, Milford Sound, Queenstown, Lake Hawea, Haast, Franz Josef, Hokitika, Punakaiki, Castle Hill Peak
See all toursDemographics
Solo travelers on our 17-day tours quickly find their groove with the group. You'll explore Waitomo's glowworm caves, check out Hobbiton's movie sets and spend time in Māori villages learning about local culture. Our TourRadar customers often mention how fast they make friends, especially during shared experiences like kayaking on Lake Wanaka or hiking Mount Iron. The 10-14 day Big South tours also hit the right notes - guides make sure everyone feels included, whether you're keen to try bungee jumping in Queenstown or prefer watching seals at Cape Foulwind. Having accommodation sorted and plenty of group meals makes things easier when you're traveling alone.
The boutique South Island journeys are particularly good for couples who want something special. The Southern Spectacular includes nights in historic buildings and romantic touches like dinner cruises on vintage steamships. Many pairs book our packages that combine the TranzAlpine train with Milford Sound overnight cruises - you get a private cabin with big windows looking right out over the fiord. Our travelers like having structured activities plus enough free time to do their own thing. It works really well for couples, from wine tasting in Marlborough to quiet evenings by Lake Wakatipu.
Active young adults tend to go for our 17-day South Island circuits. You'll stay in social hostels where it's natural to meet people and plan side trips together. The Queenstown portion is a real highlight - our guests can pick their own mix of skydiving, bungy jumping, mountain biking and jet boat rides. The Big South tours are popular too, mixing in scheduled activities like Franz Josef Glacier hikes with optional extras. The guides know how to create a fun group vibe while making sure everyone gets to tick off their must-do activities. Many tours include cultural elements like carving your own pounamu pendant or gathering fresh mussels in Abel Tasman.
Our rail and cruise combinations are ideal for senior travelers who want to see the South Island at a relaxed pace. These 10-14 day journeys include TranzAlpine train trips, Christchurch tram tours and guided walks through botanical gardens. You'll get out on Milford Sound and explore Queenstown with plenty of time to take in the views. Two-night hotel stays are standard and you'll enjoy special experiences like dining at Walter Peak High Country Farm. Our older guests often tell us they appreciate having organized activities balanced with free time to explore independently.
The South Island family tours really work well for different age groups traveling together. Our 4-day self-drive options give parents the freedom they need - you'll have your own car and pre-arranged activities like the Queenstown gondola and Mirror Lakes visits. The longer 10-day guided versions include nice touches like afternoon tea with local farming families and easy walks around Lake Tekapo. Many families tell us the TSS Earnslaw cruise to Walter Peak High Country Farm is their favorite part - the kids love watching sheep shearing demonstrations and everyone gets together for a proper barbecue dinner. It's a good mix of outdoor activities and local culture that keeps both adults and children interested.
- Solo Travelers133 tours All tours for Solo Travelers
- Couples61 tours
- Young Adults (18 - 39)27 tours
- Seniors (50+)55 tours All tours for Seniors
Best time to visit New Zealand South Island
- Spring 2025
- popular 119 tours
- 113 tours
- 78 tours
- Summer 2025
- 78 tours
- popular 79 tours
- 77 tours
- Fall / Autumn 2025
- popular 89 tours
- 84 tours
- 88 tours
- Winter 2025 / 2026
- 94 tours
- popular 105 tours
- 75 tours
Contact our New Zealand South Island travel experts
Laura
Expert in New Zealand South Island at TourRadar
Laura is one of our seasoned New Zealand South Island Travel Experts. Reach out to us to get all your questions about New Zealand South Island tours answered!
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