South Island Splendor: A Week of Adventure and Adrenaline

Upon arrival in Queenstown, pick up your rental car and get ready for a captivating drive to Te Anau. But first, consider a quick detour to Jack's Point, just 20 minutes from Queenstown, for sweeping lake views and a glimpse of the Remarkables mountain range. Grab a coffee at the clubhouse and soak up the serene atmosphere.

As you continue towards Te Anau, keep your camera ready! The road meanders through picturesque landscapes, revealing glimpses of turquoise rivers and expansive farmland. Make a stop at the Devil's Staircase Lookout for panoramic vistas of Lake Wakatipu and the surrounding mountains. This winding route offers a thrilling driving experience and countless photo opportunities.

After the two to three hour drive, you'll arrive in Te Anau. Settle into your accommodation and take some time to appreciate the tranquility of Lake Te Anau. Rent a kayak or paddleboard and explore the lake's hidden corners, or simply unwind on the shore and soak in the views. In the evening, indulge in a delicious meal at Red Cliff Cafe, known for its cozy ambiance and local cuisine, or The Fat Duck, a highly rated gastropub.

Today, prepare to be awestruck by the majestic Milford Sound. Venture into Fiordland National Park, stopping at the serene Mirror Lakes for those iconic reflections. Take your time here and capture the perfect photo of the mountains mirrored in the placid waters.

Next, stretch your legs on the Lake Gunn Nature Walk, a short and easy walk through enchanting beech forest. Sunlight filters through the dense canopy of moss-covered trees, casting an ethereal glow on the forest floor. At the end of the trail, you'll be rewarded with captivating views of Lake Gunn.

Continue your journey towards Milford Sound, stopping at the panoramic Pop's View Lookout for awe-inspiring vistas of the Hollyford Valley and the surrounding mountains.

Hike to the cascading Humboldt Falls, a short walk through verdant rainforest. The falls plunge 275 meters down a rugged cliff face, creating a mesmerizing spectacle.

Drive through the Homer Tunnel, an engineering marvel carved through solid rock. The tunnel is over 1.2 kilometers long and offers glimpses of cascading waterfalls and dramatic rock formations.

After exiting the tunnel, there's still a bit of a drive before you reach Milford Sound. Take your time and savor the anticipation as you wind through the valley, enveloped by towering peaks and lush greenery.

Embark on a boat cruise and witness the full grandeur of Milford Sound. Imposing cliffs rise from the deep waters, cascading waterfalls plummet from great heights and playful seals bask on the rocks. Keep an eye out for dolphins, penguins and other marine life. Don't be discouraged if you encounter rain in Milford Sound! While sunny days offer clear views of Mitre Peak, rainy days bring a different kind of magic, with countless temporary waterfalls cascading down the cliffs, creating a truly awe-inspiring spectacle. With an average of 182 rainy days per year, Milford Sound is one of the wettest inhabited places on Earth, but its beauty is undeniable in any weather.

On your return journey, stop at The Chasm, a series of powerful waterfalls carving their way through a narrow gorge. Take the short walk to the viewing platform and marvel at the force of nature. Don't forget to stop at Christie Falls, another beautiful waterfall cascading down a rock face. You can also use this time to catch any of the stops you might have missed on the way down.

Leaving Te Anau behind, head back towards Queenstown where you will spend the next couple of days. But first, take the scenic route to Glenorchy, a captivating village nestled at the northern end of Lake Wakatipu.

As you journey towards Glenorchy, make a stop at Wilson's Bay. This secluded bay, just a short detour off the main road, offers stunning views of Lake Wakatipu and the surrounding mountains. It's the perfect place to stretch your legs, take in the scenery and capture some memorable photos.

Continue along Glenorchy-Queenstown Road, which offers breathtaking views of the lake and surrounding mountains. Be sure to stop at Bennett's Bluff Lookout for another photo opportunity that will take your breath away.

Once in Glenorchy, immerse yourself in its tranquility. Explore the historic buildings and art galleries, or take a leisurely stroll along the lakefront. Glenorchy is also a great starting point for hikes, with trails leading to the Glenorchy Lagoon and beyond.

No trip to Glenorchy is complete without experiencing the beauty of the Dart River. This pristine river flows through the heart of Mt Aspiring National Park, offering opportunities for kayaking, jet boating and scenic flights. Take a jet boat tour that will whisk you through narrow canyons and past towering waterfalls. Or, for a more tranquil experience, rent a kayak and paddle down the river at your own pace, soaking in the serenity of the surroundings.

For lunch, head to the charming Mrs Woolly's. This popular cafe is known for its delicious homemade food and friendly atmosphere. Enjoy a tasty lunch with stunning views of the lake, and be sure to try their famous pies or scones.

In the afternoon, head back to Queenstown and check in to your accommodation. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of this adventure hub and prepare for another exciting day tomorrow.

Today is all about embracing the thrills and excitement that Queenstown is famous for!

Start your day with a heart-stopping bungy jump off the Nevis, the highest in New Zealand. Freefall for 8.5 seconds before bouncing back up, surrounded by stunning mountain scenery. This is an unforgettable experience, but not for the faint of heart! If the Nevis seems a bit daunting, consider the Nevis Swing or opt for a shorter jump at the Kawarau Bridge.

After lunch, ascend Bob's Peak via the gondola. Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of Queenstown, Lake Wakatipu and the surrounding mountains. At the top, experience the thrill of the luge, a gravity-fueled ride with twists, turns and tunnels. Choose from different tracks to suit your skill level, and race your friends and family to the bottom.

In the evening, savor a delectable dinner at Stratosfare Restaurant and Bar, revolving high above Queenstown. Enjoy views of the city and surrounding mountains while indulging in a delicious buffet meal.

Check out of Queenstown and head towards the charming town of Wanaka. The drive itself is a scenic delight, with winding roads, turquoise lakes and snow-capped mountains.

If you have time, make a quick stop at #thatwanakatree, a solitary willow tree rising from the lake. This iconic tree has become a popular photo spot, so be sure to capture your own Instagram-worthy shot.

Wanaka is a hiker's paradise! Challenge yourself with the iconic Roy's Peak Track, a five to six hour hike with breathtaking panoramic views of Lake Wanaka and the surrounding mountains. Alternatively, try the Isthmus Peak Track, a more challenging eight to ten hour hike with equally stunning views. Be sure to check the track conditions and weather forecast before you go, and pack plenty of water and snacks.

For a shorter and more accessible hike with rewarding views, consider the Mount Iron Track. This one and a half to two hour loop track climbs to the summit of Mount Iron, offering 360-degree panoramas of Wanaka, the lake and the surrounding mountains.

For a unique experience, try the Wildwire Wanaka via Ferrata, a thrilling climb with ladders and cables that takes you high above the Wanaka region. This is a guided activity, so you'll be safely harnessed and led by experienced instructors.

Explore the town of Wanaka, with its vibrant cafes, restaurants and shops. Relax by the lake, rent a kayak or paddleboard or visit Puzzling World, a quirky attraction with illusion rooms and a giant maze.

Continue your journey to Twizel, a small town nestled in the Mackenzie Basin. This is a great base for exploring Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park and is located within the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve, one of the best places in the world for stargazing. With minimal light pollution, the night sky here is truly spectacular.

For an unforgettable experience, book a stay at Skyscape Twize. These one-of-a-kind accommodations offer glass roofs, allowing you to fall asleep under a blanket of stars.

Prepare for a day of alpine splendor as you journey to Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park. The drive itself is breathtaking, with the turquoise waters of Lake Pukaki accompanying you for much of the way. Stop at Peter's Lookout for expansive views of the lake and the Southern Alps.

Embark on the Hooker Valley Track, a relatively easy three-hour hike that leads to the Hooker Glacier terminal lake, with stunning views of Aoraki/Mount Cook. The track is well-maintained and suitable for most fitness levels. Along the way, you'll cross swing bridges, admire glacial moraines and enjoy breathtaking mountain scenery.

For a more challenging adventure, tackle the Sealy Tarns Track, a steep climb with 2,200 steps that rewards you with panoramic views of the Hooker Valley and Aoraki/Mount Cook. If you're feeling truly ambitious, continue on to Mueller Hut, an extension of the Sealy Tarns Track, to a historic mountain hut with incredible views.

Another highlight of the park is the Tasman Glacier viewpoint. Take a short walk to the lookout and marvel at the vast expanse of the glacier, the longest in New Zealand. You can also take a boat tour on the Tasman Glacier terminal lake, getting up close to icebergs and experiencing the scale of this natural wonder.

Enjoy a well-deserved dinner at The Hermitage Hotel, a historic hotel with stunning views of Aoraki/Mount Cook. Indulge in a delicious meal and reflect on your day of alpine adventures.

Today marks your final day on the South Island. Begin your journey towards Christchurch, stopping at the picturesque Lake Tekapo. This turquoise lake is surrounded by snow-capped mountains and is a popular spot for photography and relaxation.

Consider a hike to Mount John Observatory for panoramic views of the lake and surrounding mountains. Alternatively, take a scenic walk along the Lake Tekapo foreshore or enjoy a coffee at one of the lakeside cafes.

For a delicious lunch, stop at the famous Fairlie Bakehouse. This bakery is renowned for its pies, with a wide variety of fillings to choose from. Be sure to try the classic mince and cheese or the venison pie.

For a scenic detour, take the road towards the Rakia Gorge. This dramatic gorge is carved by the Rakia River and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. There are several trails in the area, ranging from short strolls to longer hikes.

Check into your Christchurch accommodation and, if time allows, visit the International Antarctic Centre for an interactive experience. Learn about Antarctica's unique environment, meet the huskies and experience an Antarctic storm simulation. Alternatively, explore the revitalized downtown area of Christchurch, with its vibrant street art, innovative architecture and bustling cafes and restaurants.

From Christchurch, you can easily fly to Auckland to catch your international flight home or continue your New Zealand adventure with a trip to the North Island, starting with the geothermal wonders in Rotorua.