With pristine waters, Waikoropupu Springs, near Nelson at the top of the South Island, are reputedly the clearest fresh water springs in the world, with an outflow of approximately 2160 million litres of water every 24 hours.

Frying Pan Lake at Waimangu is one of the world’s largest hot pools: 38,000 square metres in area, and fed by numerous acid springs. The lake fills part of a crater formed by the 1886 Tarawera eruption. It has a flat floor, mainly about 6 metres deep, although some vents are up to 20 metres deep. Lake temperature is generally between 45 and 55°C.

The Catlins area sits at the bottom of the South Island on the east coast, running from Kaka Point in the north to Fortrose in the south. This area is part of the Southern Scenic Route which runs from Dunedin, down through the Catlins to Invercargill and north-west to Te Anau. The main service area of the Catlins is the tiny town of Owaka (population 450) which is located 115km south of Dunedin and 130 km north of Invercargill .

Sand, surf, sea life. One of the most

popular West Coast beaches in the Auckland area is Muriwai, a surf beach of around 60km. The Muriwai Regional Park is an area of protected native bush, sand dunes and walking tracks. It features unique formations of pillow lava in the cliffs behind Maori Bay in the south, revealing the violent geological history of the area.

The seaside settlement of Kaikoura, situated midway between Christchurch and Picton on the rugged east coast of New Zealand's South Island, is overlooked by majestic mountains which are snow-capped

for many months of the year.

Aoraki/Mount Cook (70,696 hectares) is New Zealand's great alpine park. It contains the highest mountains and the largest glaciers. Aoraki/Mount Cook Village and visitors to the park are dwarfed by the immensity of the landscape that surrounds them.

Ninety Mile Beach is on the western coast of the North Auckland Peninsula. It is terminated by rocky volcanic headlands, Scott Point to the north and Reef Point to the south. Between the two points is a beautiful arching beach of white sand facing the Tasman Sea. The origin of the name is uncertain, for the beach measures only 55

miles.

Water TransportInterislander & Lynx

The Interislander’s two passenger/ vehicle ships, Arahura and Aratere, offer a convenient and regular daily service across the 19 kilometre stretch of water separating the North and South islands. Cruising time is 3 hours.

By comparison, the lynx – a high speed car/passenger catamaran, reduces this to 135 minutes.

Rivers

Tourist Destinations

National Parks

Mountains

Accommodation

Restaurant/ bar service

Laundry Service

Bed & Breakfast

Room Service

Foreign Exchange service

NorthlandNorthland is made up of farmland and some of New Zealand’s Most BeautifulBeaches. Much of New Zealand’s earliest history is in Northland so there are a Lot of attractions relating to the Treaty of Waitangi and early settlers

Some of the world’s finest big game fishing can be enjoyed in Northland, and thereare lots of safe swimming and surf beaches. In fact, hundreds of miles of coastlineremain unspoilt.

Kaitaia.

• Kaitaia is the main centre for Northland. From here you can take bus trips to Cape Reinga which is located at the very top of New Zealand where the Tasman Sea and Pacific Ocean meet. In stormy weather the waves can be 10m high. Further on is the famous Ninety Mile Beach.

• Cape Reinga/ Ninety Mile Beach - A number of operators offer daily tours from Kaitaia to the above. Tours generally include: Cape Reinga, Ninety Mile Beach, Te Paki sand dunes (toboggans on coach), Ancient Kauri Kingdom, Aupouri forest, Wagener Park and some include a picnic lunch.

• Private tours to Cape Reinga/ Ninety Mile Beach - You decide exactly where you want to go. Travel in luxury 4x4 vehicles. Gourmet lunches included.

• Visit Cape Reinga from Paihia - If you do not mind a really long day you can also visit these two attractions as a day trip by bus from Paihia (Bay of Islands).

• Wagener Park & Museum - This attraction is located north of Kaitaia and often included on day trips to Cape Reinga. It has museum, beach front café, golf course and camping ground.

Bay of Islands The Bay of Islands is located 240 Kilometres north of Auckland, and is part

of the Northern region. It takes about 4 hours 15 minutes to get there by car from Auckland. You can fly from Auckland to the Bay of Islands on Air New Zealand. The main town centre for the Bay of Islands is Paihia, and many tourists will base themselves here and visit surrounding attractions.

PaihiaPaihia is right on the waterfront and tourists can take many different trips on thewater or they can catch a ferry across to the quaint township of Russell (NZ’s FirstCapital). They could travel ten minutes north to Waitangi, or 15 minutes to Kerikeri,where there are orchards, crafts and a famous landmark – the stone store. It is evenpossible to do a day trip from Paihia to Cape Reinga – the top of the North Island

The Bay of Islands is known as a centre for big game fishing and many fishing charters leave from Paihia. You can have a boat to yourself or share the cost with others who also want to fish.

Waitangi Waitangi is a place of national heritage and is a 10 minute walk from Paihia.

It was here that the treaty of Waitangi was signed on the 6th February 1840. You can visit the Treaty house, which is now a national museum and visitor centre. The treaty house is set in the park-like grounds and there is also a Maori meeting house and war canoe – the largest in the world. Come back in the evening for an excellent Maori cultural performance.

KerikeriLocated 15 minutes from Paihia and close to where the airport for the Bay of Islands, Kerikeri has some wonderful arts and crafts shops, with a particularEmphasis on pottery. There is an art and craft trail laid out so you can ensure you miss none of the main points of interest.

• Makana confectionsIf you love chocolate than you will love the Makana Confections. There is a visitorviewing area where you can see hand dipped chocolates being made.• The Orange CentreEnjoy a tour around the citrus and kiwifruit orchard on the orange mobile. The caféHas pure orange juice, an Art/Craft shop and playground.• The Stone StoreThis building was first used by missionaries to store their supplies and then later leasedto shopkeepers until the Historical Places Trust took it over. It is the oldest stone buildingin New Zealand (1832).

Here are some of Kerikeri attractions:

RussellRussell has a colourful history and was central in the Northern Wars in the early 19th century. Bullet holes from an early battle can still be seen in the local church. It was once known as “the hell hole of the Pacific”, as it was a shore leave destination for sailors, whalers and traders – hence the scene of many drunken brawls.

After the signing of the Treaty of Waitangi, Russell became the country’s first capital.

Located three hours drive north of Auckland;

Whangarei is situated on a harbour and is close to some of New Zealand’s

most spectacular beaches.Waterfront

well laid out area has lots of gift shops, art and craft

galleries, cafes, restaurants and is where Clapham’s clock Museum is located.

Beaches

Most beautiful beaches can be

found on the east coast of

Whangarei.

Auckland is a major gateway to New Zealand and 75% of international visitors arrive into New

Zealand through Auckland. It was the official capital of

New Zealand from 1840-1865 and boasts nearly a

third of New Zealand’s Population.

Attractions

Kelly Tarlton's

Pacifica Festival

Starlight Symphony

Held each year in February it attracts huge crowds. Bring your own picnic and

wine.

Ellerslie Flower show

The largest, most innovative

and exciting flower and

garden.

Around the Bays

Heineken Open

Has a rich Agricultural

base dominated

by dairy farming, but

also featuring sheep and

beef, thoroughbre

d horse studs, deer farming and

fruit

This City is now Bigger

than Dunedin and is New Zealand’s

third largest city. It has the Waikato

River running through it with

walkways along the river bank and a pretty lake in its centre- Hamilton

Lake.

Waikato River

The Waikato river begins at port Waikato and finishes in lake Taupo

Walking

The paved walkways and wooden ramps make the walk one of the best

river side walks in NZ.

Cruising

You can take a paddle

steamer cruise

along the Waikato

river

Facilities that support the activities on

the river range from

accommodation to shops and

restaurants

Located 15 minutes south of Hamilton, Cambridge is well

known for it’s beautiful tree-lined streets and horse breeding in its

surrounding farmland.

Located 20 minutes north of Hamilton en route to Auckland. The Huntly power station dominates the skyline and is situated on the banks of the Waikato River. Tours are available by appointment

A small rural town about 50 minutes east of Hamilton.

Otorohanga is an hours drive from Hamilton. It is the closest town to thetWaitomo caves and

is home to the to the Kiwi House and Native Bird park. .

hanga is home

World famous in New

Zealand….

for L&P.

Located on the edge of the Hauraki plains and is

a farming centre for the

area

Attractions not to be missed

Huka Jet- Jet boating

Taupo Bungy

De Brett’s Hot Pools

Huka Falls

Wairakei Resort – International Golf course

A C Baths

Prawn Farm

River Rafting Safaris

The Bay of Plenty

Rotorua

Whakatane

Tauranga

Te Puke

Mt Maunganui

To travel from Auckland to Tauranga it will take you 3 hours and 20 mins.

To travel from Hamilton to Tauranga it will take you 1 hour and 55 mins.

To travel from Gisborne to Tauranga it will take you 5 hours.

This is one of the main centres of the Bay of Plenty region and is one of New Zealand's largest ports.

It is known for its many historical attractions, great beaches and is also seen as the gateway to nearby Mount Maunganui which is a popular holiday spot.

Mt Maunganui

township is

located at the

foot of Mt

Maunganui.

Which is 232 meters high and set on the end of a narrow peninsula.

This is one of New Zealand's favourite summer holiday spots, with fantastic beaches and great conditions for a variety of water sports.

The kiwifruit capital of the world!!!!!

This is what Te Puke is most well known for… “kiwifruit”! But there are also some great bush walks, beautiful rivers and excellent beaches.

Visitors come to Te Puke for these 3 things……*Kiwifruit country*Te Puke vintage auto barn.*Longridge jets

Whakatane is located at the mouth of the Whakatane river and right by the sea, with excellent beaches nearby.

An awesome active Volcano situated in the Bay of Plenty – approximately 50km from the shore. Accessible on scenic flights from Rotorua, Taupo, Tauranga and Whakatane.

This is New Zealand’s most active volcano and is always rumbling smoking or puffing out steam.

This is North Island’s most famous destination for overseas visitors.

Here the absolute power of nature’s forces will amaze you…

These are some of the activities you can do in Rotorua…

*Lakeland Queen cruises

*Agrodome

*Skyline Skyrides

*Rotorua museum

*Wai-o-tapu

*Zorb

*Polynesian spa.

Rotorua to Matamata Fun Ride..

Held at lake Rotorua, in January. Boats from across N.Z will bring the shores of lake Rotorua to life with the thrill and speed that only powerboats can bring. The race headquarters will be at Hannah’s bay reserve, lake Rotorua.

Millennium Rotorua chamber music festival

Located at Rotorua convention centre. Features a variety of eight concerts in seven days. Held in January.

“Gisborne”

• Gisborne is the first city in New Zealand, and the world, to see the sun each day.

• A lot of people come to Gisborne to celebrate the New Year as it is one of the first places in the world to see sun rise on the first day on January.

Activities at Gisborne……

Wainui Beach

Te Poho-o-rawiri Marae. Morere hot springs.

A semi-coastal native ,hilly ,forest area with great beaches, surfing, fishing, horse trekking, camping and bush tracks too.

*Fish/scuba/shark-dolphin

Try trout fishing in the outlying rivers or excellent deep sea fishing charters available. Surfcasting, fishing and scuba dive at prolific offshore reefs in the area. Eyeball a shark in specially designed cages underneath water or get friendly with dolphins – view from vessel. All gear supplied as necessary.

Contains the largest area of virgin forest in the North Island and has steep ranges and deep gorges. One of the main features of the park is Lake Waikaremoana, and the walks through the park are popular.

Hunting is on the popular activity list in the national park- but you must obtain a permit from the visitor centre first!

AND…..only pigs and deer..

The Hawkes Bay has two main cities, Napier and Hastings. If you were flying to Hawkes Bay you would be flying into Napier.

Napier and Hastings are often referred to as the twin cities and are less than 20 minutes apart.

Hawkes Bay has a Mediterranean climate, varied landscape and is one of three farmed winemaking regions in NZ.

This area is known as the fruit bowl of New Zealand and is the largest producer of apples, peaches and pears in New Zealand.

Splash Planet…

This is a 6.5 hectare leisure park that has a castle, pirate ship and 15 rides for children including bumper boats, dodgems, flying fox, and a train, etc…

Frimley Rose Garden…

This Rose garden has more than 5,500 roses and rare species of trees.

The Tongariro National Park has the volcano peaks of Mt Ruapehu, Mt Tongariro and Mt Ngaruruhoe.

It is one of 100 sites in the world with dual world Heritage Status for its natural & cultural values.

It also offers great hiking tracks for the adventurous.

..Activities..

Hiking

Tramping

Skiing

Getting Your Bearings

Let’s start our exciting tour of New Zealand’s South Island with some geography so you can find your way around. Did you know the South Island is one third bigger than the North Island – but has one third of the population.

Main Areas

• Often when South Islanders describe a place, they talk with reference to four main areas – the Southern Alps, the West Coast, the East Coast and the South Coast.

Mountains and Glaciers

• The Southern Alps are a huge mountain range along an earthquake fault running from Southland right up to Nelson/Marlborough. They are very important South Island landmark, with the mountain tops covered in snow for much of the year. They can be seen from every South Island region.

Major Cities and Towns

National Parks

• Many of the National Parks in New Zealand are found in the South Island. Here is one of these National Parks - the Abel Tasman.

Mountain, Rivers & Lakes

• There are several mountains, rivers and lakes of importance in the South Island.

Roads & Highways

• One of the best things about the South Island for the independent traveller is that there aren’t too many main roads! State Highway 6 runs all the way from Picton to Invercargill via the West Coast, and State Highway 1 runs all the way from Picton to Invercargill via East Coast.

• Other important roads usually cross the Southern Alps or other high mountain ranges.

• These include:• Arthur’s Pass – you cross this

to travel between Greymouth and Christchurch. SH73 – an

alpine crossing • Haast Pass – this links Otago

to Westland. Part of SH6 from Haast to Wanaka.

• Lewis Pass – you could use this to travel between Nelson and Christchurch via the Inland Road. From Christchurch travel north to Waipara where the Lewis Pass SH7 branches inland.

Marlborough

• Marlborough is a diverse region – the gateway to the South Island. From the native bush and beautiful inlets of the Marlborough Sounds, to the fertile Wairau Plains, to the wild and rocky East Coast, Marlborough has something for everyone.

• Picton –the South Island port of the Lynx/Interislander ferries.

• Marlborough Sounds – the Marlborough sounds are breathtaking and cover a large portion of the top of the South Island.

• Queen Charlotte Track – This walk winds its way around Queen Charlotte Sound. You can take day walks on the tracks or do the entire tramp in about 5 days.

Havelock

• A quaint town located an the inner end of Pelorus Sound on State Highway 6, half way between Blenheim and Nelson. Havelock is the Greenshell Mussel Capital of the world – you can even buy mussel pies here! Many people also choose Havelock as the starting point of a Marlborough Sounds boat cruise or sea kayaking trip.

• Sea Kayaking – many companies offer both guided trips and freedom rentals (unguided) in the Marlborough Sounds. Guide trips can be anything from one to five days and usually include all meals and snacks.

• Sail/Cruise/Kayak – a number of operators offer cruises, sailing charters or kayaks. The ideal way to see the Sounds in the water - there are guided kayaking tours or half day, full day or overnight sailing/cruise boat charters.

Blenheim

• Blenheim is Marlborough’s main centre and is situated next to the large Wairau River on the Wairau Plains. It is one of New Zealand’s principal wine-growing regions and is well known for producing excellent Sauvignon Blanc’s and Chardonnay.

• Event – every year in February the BMW Wine Marlborough a wine and gourmet food festival takes place in Blenheim. Over 200 wines are showcased from over 40 wineries. You can sample the wines and gourmet food and meet Marlborough’s leading wine makers and top NZ chefs. People attend from all over the country and relax to soothing classical jazz bands.

Wairau River

• This is a large river that runs north through the Wairau Plains and into Cloudy Bay. It is known for good trout fishing.

• Deluxe Coachlines – this company offers a range of wine trails or you can design your own. They will also combine full day wine trails or include boutique vineyards in the nearby Nelson region. General sightseeing tours can be booked.

• Brayshaw Museum Park – Here you can see the reconstructed village of Beaverton – this was the original name or Blenheim. They also specialise in vintage farm equipment and have a miniature railway

Nelson

• This is the marketing slogan for the Nelson region and really does sum up the types of experiences you can have there. It is a large region covering the north western corner of the South Island, with three national parks – Kahurangi National Park, Abel Tasman and Nelson Lakes. Nelson offers diverse scenery, culture and attractions. It prides itself on four main themes – sunshine, adventure, arts/craft and wine. Nelson is one of those rare places where you can ski in the morning, tramp around noon, have a BBQ on a secluded beach in the evening and then head to funky bars and cafes. The city of Nelson is the region’s main centre and is situated in the bottom corner of Tasman Bay. The town is focused around the Cathedral and the Church Steps at the end of the main street. There are eating places offering outdoor dining and fine menus. Nelson was one of the first European settlements. Much of this history has been preserved, and you can see many old colonial buildings.

Events

• Hooked on Seafood – happens every March and is an outdoor festival celebrating wine and seafood.

• Happy Valley Adventures – see thousands of acres of beautiful remote bush, awesome sea views and the world’s largest Matai trees, on your 4 wheel drive bike!

• Boutique Vineyards – there are many located along the horticultural plains between Nelson and Motueka.. The region is well known for its excellent medal winning Sauvignon Blancs.

• Hoglund Art Glass – you can watch them glass blowing, browse through their shop, dine in the café or take a glass workshop.

• Nelson Helicopters – an award winning company that offers scenic flights on demand – 20 mins or longer. See golden beaches, snow-capped peaks and much more.

• Hang Gliding Adventures – for the ultimate buzz – go hang gliding on a tandem flight.

Abel Tasman National Park

• Named after the a Dutch Explorer who ‘discovered’ New Zealand in 1642 – it is the smallest and most popular of New Zealand’s national parks.

• Walking and Tramping – the Abel Tasman Coastal Track is said to be one of the most stunning tramps in the world - native bush, golden beaches and more. It takes 3-5 days to tramp.

• Kayaking – this offers a variety of guided trips and freedom rentals (unguided) are available. Anybody can go sea kayaking, even if you can’t swim! A popular trip is the one day guided which departs daily from Marahau. This trip included gourmet lunch, morning and afternoon tea on secluded beaches that only kayakers can get to.

Facilities

• Doc Office – Department of Conservation • The Department of Conservation office is located in nearby Motueka

and can assist tourists with information on tides, book DOC huts that are located in the National Park, and assist with maps and transportation.

• Water Taxis – there are numerous water taxis available that offer casual walkers or those who just want to do a day walk the opportunity to be taken in to the National Park and dropped off and then later picked up at one of the beaches. Some of the water taxis can take kayaks giving greater flexibility.

Golden Bay• Golden Bay is a colourful

melting pot of dairy farming families, alternative lifestyles and European immigrants. It is separated from the rest of Nelson by the magnificent Mount Arthur ranges to the east and Kahurangi National Park to the south. Its is well known for its awesome sandy beaches and great climate, making it a favourite holiday spot for New Zealanders. It is 35km long and is a sanctuary for many birds that fly all the way from places like Russia, just to spend summer with us.

• Farewell Spit Tour – a world class wildlife bird sanctuary and southern nesting spot for seabirds from the Arctic. The spit is protected land and the public not allowed on to it. The lighthouse tour is and absolute must and takes 5 hours – you will see ancient shell and marine life fossils.

• Harwoods Hole – the longest vertical shaft (176m deep) in the Southern Hemisphere, located on Takaka Hill. You can see amazing karst (limestone) landscape. This area used to be quarried for marble and has some amazing cave systems that can be accessed on a variety of guided trips. You can see Harwoods Hole by a scenic helicopter.

Kahurangi National Park

• Kahurangi means ‘treasured possession’, and it is the treasured home to over 100 bird species – including rare Kiwis, 50% of New Zealand’s plant species and 80% of our Alpine plant species. It covers 400,000 hectares of wilderness making it New Zealand’s second largest National Park. The Heaphy Track is the most popular track in the Park, taking 4–6 days and links Golden Bay to Karamea on the West Coast. Kahurangi formed the backdrop to many scenes in the movie Lord of the Rings especially the barren slopes of Mt Owen.

Nelson Lakes National Park

• This is the southern area of the Nelson region and borders the Westland, Canterbury and Marlborough regions. This park is described as having beach forest, valleys, isolated glacial lakes and craggy mountains. Nelson Lakes National Park is centred on two beautiful alpine lakes, Rotoiti and Rotorua. It is a great place for skiing, white water rafting, trout fishing, alpine tramping or walk lakeside tracks.

• Mountaineering – there are a number of good winter climbing routes suitable for experienced trampers and climbers.

• Snow Sports – a small club field is located on Mount Robert. Getting there involves a 1 1/2- 2 hours climb from the road end. The Nelson Ski club offer limited accommodation and instruction.

• Walking – there is a network of short tracks exploring the forest, lake shore and glacial features of both lakes. Longer walks and alpine tramping are available.

• Boating and Fishing – there is good fishing for trout in both lakes with one of the best spots being the headwaters for both lakes.

Facilities

• DOC office – Department of Conservation

This Department of Conservation Centre is located at St Arnaud which is at the northern end of the National Park. There are comprehensive displays and information on the park, accommodation and transport.

• Accommodation

There is very limited accommodation with mainly hostels, motels and camping grounds at St Arnaud and Lake Rotoiti although there is an exclusive fishing lodge at Lake Rotorua.

St Arnaud

• This alpine village is set on the shores of beautiful Lake Rotoiti, the starting point of the mighty Buller River. The Buller River is a paradise for white water rafters and trout fishers alike. St Arnaud is also the place to be based if you want to go skiing at Rainbow Ski Area which is located only 1 and a half hours drive from both Nelson and Blenheim.

Buller River

• Known as the ‘Mighty Buller’, as it is the largest West Coast river. It runs all the way from Lake Rotoiti, through the Buller Gorge to Westport, where it flows into the sea. It has awesome trout fishing, white baiting, fantastic scenery and is famous for thrilling white water rafting trips. Action packed jet boating trips are also on offer.

• White Water Rafting – exhilarating white water and rugged West Coast scenery make rafting the Buller Gorge an adventure not to miss.

• Walking across New Zealand’s longest swing bridge.The Buller Gorge Swing Bridge is the longest swing bridge in NZ at 110 metres and is an experience in itself. It is the best place to get photos of the mighty Buller River and the spectacular pink granite that lines the gorge. You can return by a high speed flying fox while strapped in a secure harness.

Facilities

• Swing Bridge Centre – on the Buller river offers a café on site and information on walks, the swing bridge and flying fox and you can try your hand at gold panning

• Westport offers a range of mainly motel and bed and breakfast style accommodation within easy access to the river. It also has one camping ground. Westport also has banks, shops and 5 café/restaurants.

Kaikoura

• Kaikoura is a small picturesque fishing town located half way between Picton and Christchurch. It is located on a rocky Peninsula and in the surrounding waters a complex marine system provides a rich habitat for whales, dolphins, seals and wild birds. It is renowned for its fishing grounds and colourful reef diving. It is set against the dramatic backdrop of the Kaikoura Ranges, (snow capped throughout winter), and has a wild, rugged coastline. Kaikoura is famous for crayfish, whale watching, seals and dolphins. There are also excellent tramping tracks nearby and great skiing at Mt Lyford.

Activities• Whale Watch Kaikoura – boat trips last about 2 hours and depart year

round with the first trip of the day departing at sunrise. The boats are specially built to give good viewing and photo opportunities. All trips are dependant on good sea conditions.

• Dolphins/ Albatross Encounter – watch or swim with the dusky dolphins, or get up close with the albatross – the bird with the largest wingspan in the world. These trips last about 2 hours, departs year round and are dependant on good sea conditions.

• Whale Watching by Air – a great way to see the whales is from the air – you can get very close for some excellent photo opportunities.

• Sharks – if your nerves are made of steel you may want to get up close to this predator – inside a steel shark cage. View sharks feeding.

• Mt Lyford Ski Area – a year round destination, this ski area has wide – open spaces and is magic for skiers and snowboarders. Terrific views of the pacific ocean and the terrain is suitable for all levels.

• Kaikoura Ranges – known to the locals as simply ‘The Kaikouras’, these majestic mountains form the backdrop for the town of Kaikoura, and can even be seen from parts of Wellington.

SOUTHLAND

OTAGO

CANTERBURY

WESTLAND

NELSON

MARLBOROUGH

MarlboroughSounds

Blenheim, Wairau River

Havelock

Picton

Marlborough

NELSON

GOLDEN BAYKAHURANGI NATIONAL

PARK

NELSON LAKES NATIONALPARKS

ST ARNAUD

BULLER RIVER

ABEL TASMANNATIONAL PARK

NELSON

KAIKOURA

KAIKOURA DOLPHINS

WESTLAND

Fox Glacier

Haast pass

South Westland

WestlandNational park

Franz JosefGlacier

Hokitika

Greymouth

PaparoaNational

Park

Punakaiki

Westport

WESTLAND

CANTERBURY

Arthurs Pass

Akaroa

WaimakaririRiver

Christchurch

Hanmer Springs

Mount Cook

Christchurch

OTAGO

Coronet Peak

Queenstown

Arrowtown

Cardrona

Wanaka

Moeraki

OtagoPeninsular

Dunedin

Lake Whakatipu

TheRemarkables

OTAGO

SOUTH ISLAND

MAJOR CITIES AND TOWNS

NELSONTIMARU

INVERCARGILL

DUNEDIN

CHRISTCHURCH

GREYMOUTHWESTPORT

BLENHEIM

KAIKOURAQUEENSTOWN

OAMARU

TE ANAU

MARLBOROUGH

•Marlborough is diverse gateway to south island

•Picton famous for being the south island port of the lynx/interislander ferries.

HAVELOCKHavelock well known for its kayaking/sea kayaking

Blenheim•Blenheim well known for their BMW wine event every year in February.

Nelson•Major event ‘Hooked on Seafood’, happens every year in March and is an outdoor food festival celebrating food and wine.

•Nelson is in the bottom corner of the Tasman bay.

Abel Tasman National Park

•Abel tasman coastal track is said to be one of the most stunning tramps in the world with native bush, golden beaches, turquoise waters and great views of the Tasman Bay.

•It takes 3-5 days to complete

•Sea kayaking is also available to do at the National Park

Golden Bay•Golden Bay is well known for their awesome sandy beaches and great weather. Making it a favourite holiday spot for New Zealanders

A scene from Golden Bay

Nelson Lakes National Park

Activities:

•Mountaineering

•Snow sports

•Walking

Buller River

Well Known for :

•White water rafting

•Ultimate descents

•Buller Gorge swing bridge

KaikouraKaikoura is a small picturesque fishing town located halfway

between Picton and Christchurch. Kaikoura provides a habitat for whales, dolphins, seals and wild birds.

•Tours for whale watching

• Dolphins/Albatross encounters

Westland

No where else in the world quite like the West Coast of the South Island. The scenery is breathtaking - wild, rugged and remote. It is seperated from the rest of the South Island by the magnificent snow capped Southern Alps and most towns are situated right on the wild coastline.

Westland is divided into 3main areas-Buller in the north, Central Westland and South Westland, which is a World

Heritage area. You can see all kinds of wildlife

Here - giant snails, Yellow-eyed penguins, Black

Petrels and seals.

However, Westland’s main asset would have to

be it’s hospitality - the people are hardy, genuine,

friendly and straight to the point!

Karamea

• The Honeycomb Caves

Spectacular limestone arch caves, complete with Moa bones, and are found in an ancient rain forest. You can explore maze-like system - 13km of passageways and 70 entrances with tour guide or take a Kayak trip through. In the caves you might be lucky enough to see a Gradunula- a cave dwelling spider with a leg span of 10cm.

• Karamea River

One of the scariest rivers to white water raft in the country. It is a Grade 5-6 river not for the faint hearted! Rafting trips here are truly an adventure. Look on you’re AA Map and find Karamea. You will see a blue line running east from Karamea into Kahurangi National Park. This is the Karamea River.

Westport• Coal town

A museum that has reconstructed life in a West Coast Coal-mining town. Informative, with audio-visual presentations and excellent photographic displays, along with many coal-mining artefacts.

• Dolphins West Coast

Meet the world’s largest collection of friendly Hector Dolphins. Trips are available through summer or by charter.

• Norwest Adventures

A company offering cave rafting trips- the West Coast version of the Waitomo Black Water Rafting trip. Involes a tramp through amazing primeval rainforest, caving, glow worm grottos and an underground river.

Punakaiki

• Pancake Rocks and Blowholes rocks that actually looks like huge stacks of pancakes. Huge caverns below

these limestone rocks, water surges in during high tide. It forces itself up through holes in the rocks, making spectacular blowholes.

• Horse Treks Through the valley rainforest and towering cliffs of Paparoa National Park

then along the beach towards the famous Pancake rocks with the Tasman surf crashing on the beach.

• Westland Black Petrel Colony This is the only nesting place of the Black Petrel, a very rare sea bird.

Greymouth• Shantytown You can ride a steam train, pan for gold and even take a horse and

cart ride. There are over 30 buildings on display plus a café and bar. Opens daily, except Christmas Day.

• Wild West Adventures Able to go Black Water Cave Tubing past glow worms, underground

waterfalls and down a 100ft hydro slide or try a Jungle Boat Rainforest cruise.

Hokitika

Well known for greenstone, Hokitika is famous for glass blowing, where you can visit factories to watch the glass-blower in action.

• Glow Worm Dell This is located a short walk from the town centre and a guide is not

needed.

• Mahinapua Hotel Remember the Mainland Cheese TV advert with the old man sitting

out the front of the pub? That ad made the Mahinapua Hotel famous, and now most tours stop there. You can also have your photo taken outside the pub next to a cardboard cut-out of the Mainland Cheese man!

Franz Josef Glacier & Fox Glacier• Glacier guides

Range from half-day to full-day with all equipment included. Heli-hikes are also available and involve a helicopter flight that delivers you onto the glacier, guided walk and return flight

• Scenic Flights

Offers scenic glacier flights in both helicopters and planes. Ski planes will land you on a glacier and you will experience the awe, power and beauty of mother nature on the Southern Alps

Westland National Park• Whataroa Kotuku Sanctuary White Heron, and Whataroa is

home to their only NZ nesting place. Tours are taken to see the birds nesting.

• The Bushman’s Centre Great place to stop and learn

all about NZ bush-craft, including possum-trapping, and the best ways to fight off sand flies. Café serving bush tucker, and a great shop with some really unique West Coast souvenirs available.

Makarora

• Very, very tiny town that consists of roughly one

café/shop and motel-come backpackers. It is located about half way between Haast and Wanaka.

Mount Aspiring Flight- fly around Mount Aspiring and over the national park for high-up views of glaciers, peaks and snowfields.

Siberia Experience- the trip includes 30mins scenic flight, a 3 hour bush walk and a 45 minute jet boat ride. It takes you through some remote, beautiful mountain scenery and you may get a chance to see the rare Whio or Blue Duck (on the $10 note) and the South Island Kokako.

Canterbury

• Most known for sheep farming and its main centre, the city of Christchurch.

• Excellent beaches, great rivers for fishing, rafting and jet boating, awesome skiing and tramping.

• Most of the region is made up of the vast Canterbury Plains, where many huge sheep stations can be found, although much has been converted to dairying.

• Northern part of the region includes most of the lush native bush and mountains of the Lewis Pass.

Waimakariri River

• Fishing One of the most fished in the

South Island where salmon and brown trout are caught. It offers excellent sea-run salmon fishing between November and March. Best time to visit is during February when river’s flow tends to be stable.

• Jet boating One of the best jet boating rivers

in New Zealand. Magnificent scenery in the Waimakariri Gorge.

• Tramping To Carrington Hut - a very

popular tramping route in the area for climbers and many backpackers. Attracted by the dramatic scenery which flanks both sides of the river, and the relatively easy nature of the route.

Tekapo & Lake Tekapo

• Church of Good Shepard

Pretty little stone church located right on the edge of Lake Tekapo. Large window in front with panoramic views of the Lake and Mount Cook

• Sheepdog Statue

Outside the church is a bronze statue of a sheep dog. Tribute to their tireless work and loyalty to Mackenzie Country farmers who could not handle these large sheep stations without these amazing dogs

Mt Cook & Mt Cook National Park

At 3754 metres, Mount Cook/Aoraki is the highest mountain in NZ. 27 other peaks along this alpine backbone reach over 3050 metres. Close to the foot of the mountain is the tourist resort,Mount Cook village.

Sadly the mountain often can’t be seen due to mist or cloud, but a visit to the village is still worthwhile for the fascinating Visitors Centre, which has very interesting and informative displays about Mt Cook and the National Park

Otago

Otago is a huge region that has the South Island’s main attractions. Often when people think of Otago they only think of Dunedin, but in fact it also includes Queenstown, Wanaka and parts of the South Island’s East, South and West coasts. Also with around 180,000 residents you will notice a change in pace when you arrive here.

Located right by Mount Aspiring National Park and on the shores of Lake Wanaka, this tourist resort town is an excellent place for skiing,

tramping, mountaineering, fishing or just chilling out!

The beautiful lake and mountains make this place very picturesque, especially in winter when the snow is low on the mountains.

Wanaka

Cardrona / Treble cone

Located 34 km from Wanaka these are two of the best ski fields in New Zealand and are also great for snow boarding. Cardrona is a high mountain renowned for dry natural snow.

Three Magic Learner lifts and dedicated children’s facilities make Cardrona a great place to start. There is a famous historic pub at Cardrona. It has been voted Snowboard resort of the year - repeatedly.

ArrowtownThis is a tourist resort located 20

minutes north of Queenstown. Once a thriving place during the gold rush of the 1860s. The original part of the town has been preserved so that it looks like it did during the Gold Rush. There are several galleries, craft shops and the award-winning Lakes District Museum You can also see the largest gold nugget in New Zealand. A red double-decker bus offers half-day excursions to Arrowtown from Queenstown

Queenstown

Queenstown is one of New Zealand’s premier tourist resort towns and is famous for bungy jumping, skiing and its spectacular setting on the shores of Lake Wakatipu – between the majestic Remarkable Mountains and Coronet Peak. It is located 284 km west of Dunedin. Almost every international visitor to New Zealand visits Queenstown. It is only 45-minute flight from Christchurch. There are two major ski fields in the Queenstown area. Coronet Peak and The Remarkables.

Coronet Peak-ski field

Located close to Queenstown (30 minutes), it offers some of Australasia’s best skiing. Full ski hire is available and there is an International Ski School located here. Night skiing and snow boarding are also available. Cafes are also available offering hot meals, snacks and drinks.

Remarkable Mountains

The Remarkables are approximately one hour drive from Queenstown. Although you can see them easily from the town centre, the mountain is 1935m in height and the road is steep.

The activities you could do are:•Skiing•Mountaineering

Shotover River

This river winds its way through spectacular Skippers Canyon, and is certainly a wild and rocky river with lots of exciting rapids and steep gorges. It is popular for jet boating, white water rafting and gold panning.

Kawarau River

The Shotover River leads into Kawarau River, which in turn flows into Lake Wakatipu. It actually winds its way down the beautiful Kawarau Gorge, which you drive through if approaching Queenstown from the north on SH 6.

Lake Wakatipu

Lake Wakatipu is New Zealand’s third largest lake. The lake water temperature ranges from 8 deg C in the winter to 15 deg in mid summer, so hypothermia can be a real danger. Queenstown is situated on the edge of this lake.

The activities you could do at the Lake are:•Cruising•Fishing

Glenorchy

This is a small, tranquil and very pretty town located about 40 minutes drive from Queenstown, at the head of Lake Wakatipu. Here you can do even more adventure activities such as jet boating, kayaking and horse trekking.

Dunedin

Dunedin is said to be the most Scottish city outside of Scotland, due to the fact that most of the European settlers to Dunedin were Scottish, and were attracted to the area as the

landscape and climate reminded them of home.

Dunedin is well known for many other things such as the University of Otago, the Cadbury Chocolate Factory, Olveston House Taieri Gorge Railway and the home of Speight’s Beer.

Otago Peninsula

The Otago Peninsula offers many attractions such as Larnach Castle, the Albatross Colony, the Yellow Eyed Penguin colony and Glenfalloch Gardens. You can enjoy a scenic drive from Dunedin out along the peninsula to visit all these attractions. At the very end of the peninsula is the Albatross Colony which is 55 minutes from Dunedin.

Moeraki

Located about half way between Dunedin and Oamaru, the beach at Moeraki is home to the famous Moeraki Boulders. They look like huge marbles or bowling balls that a giant has left on the beach. They feature in almost every calendar of New Zealand. A visitors centre and Café are also located nearby.

SouthlandThis region covers a large area of the lower south-west South Island. This scenery is varied, with large tussock plains, steep bush-covered mountains, lonely fiord, shimmering lakes, granite peaks and the wild South Coast. The main attraction of Southland would have to be the Fiordland area, which includes the tourist town of Te Anau, Milford Sound, Doubtful Sound and the world renowned Milford Track.

Te Anau

This is a small tourist resort town and seen as the gateway to Milford and Doubtful Sounds. It is set on the shores of the beautiful Lake Te Anau and many of its attractions are centred on the Lake.

Te Anau is renowned as the ‘Sightseeing and Walking Capital of the World’ due to its proximity to National Parks and several major walks. These include the Milford, Routeburn, Hollyford, Greenstone and Kepler Tracks.

Lake Te Anau

This is the South Islands largest lake (second largest in New Zealand). The fingers of the lake were once glaciers and extend far into the mountains.

The activities you could do on this Lake are:•Cruising•Kayaking

Te Anau Caves

• The visit to these caves takes 2 hours 30 minutes round trip, Your Te Anau glow-worm cave adventure begins with a scenic cruise across Lake Te Anau to the western side of the lake. Upon arrival there is time to view informative displays at Carvern house before our friendly guides invite you to accompany them underground in small groups.

• As you explore by path and small boat, your sense will be overwhelmed. Observe how the rushing water sculpts the rock formations, before gliding through silent darkness to the glow-worm grotto. The delicate incandescence of thousands of tiny glow-worms is a magical sight.

Fiordland National Park• This is the largest national park in New Zealand and one of the

largest in the world. It covers a large portion of the south-west corner of the South Island. The park is characterised by majestic bush-clad mountains leading down to calm inlets, breathtaking waterfalls and amazing rain forest filled with all kinds of native flora and fauna. It has been given world heritage status due to its diverse beauty.

Milford Sound

• The tiny tourist resort town of Milford sound is nestled in the corner of this amazing sound. The grandeur of the sound is best appreciated from the water – dolphins and seals are regular visitors to the sound.

• You can drive to Milford via the scenic Milford road and the Homer tunnel.

Lake Manapouri & Doubtful sound

• Doubtful sound is the sound of silence! It really is a truly spectacular place to visit. Three times longer than Milford sound and with a surface area 10 times larger, this is an unspoiled wilderness of many moods. It is actually 420 metres deep ( the deepest of all the fiords) and 40 km long.

• you cruise over lake Manapouri, drive through Wilmot Pass with remote wilderness and rainforest to reach Doubtful Sound.

Invercargill

• This is the main centre of Southland and New Zealand's southern most city. Nearby is Bluff with its legendary oysters. It is also the gateway to Stewart Island.

The Catlins

• This amazing wilderness area is located on the south coast between Dunedin and Invercargill. Many are unclear as to whether it should be included in the Otago or Southland region, in fact it spans both. It is a beautiful place with towering Totara, Rimu and Kahikatea trees, and abundance of wildlife such as fur seals, Hookers Sea Lions, elephant seals, yellow-eyed penguins, kaka, blue ducks and the very rare Mohua bird.

Stewart island

• With a population of about 400, Stewart island is unspoilt, beautiful and often overlooked. The Stewart Island kiwi, unlike its mainland cousin, is active during the day and night. The island has excellent tramping, boating, diving and fishing. Oban, situated in Half Moon Bay is the principal town on the island and can be easily reached from the mainland by sea or air.