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HomeSingapore Travel12D New Zealand South Island Itinerary Below S$2.8k

12D New Zealand South Island Itinerary Below S$2.8k


Our first journey to NZ since its borders closed resulting from Covid. Right here’s an epic South Island itinerary masking every little thing we’ve missed about New Zealand!

Regardless of masking many epic sights on our final journey to New Zealand, there was nonetheless a protracted unfulfilled bucket record of experiences on the South Island.

So when New Zealand introduced its borders would open from 1 Might 2022, we received all the way down to planning the South Island journey we’d been eagerly ready for.

Queenstown Lake Wakatipu Person Sitting on Rock - New Zealand South Island Guide

And whether or not you’re a fan of the South Island or the North, you received’t wanna miss out on these bucket-list-worthy experiences in New Zealand — from mountain climbing at Roy’s Peak and kayaking with seals in Kaikoura to canyon swinging at Queenstown!

Learn extra: New Zealand Itinerary Half 2 — 5-Day North Island Highway Journey in a Campervan Below S$600

Pre-trip Necessities

Passport at Changi Airport

Pre-departure paperwork

NZeTA: Apply a minimum of 72hrs earlier than departure — NZ$9 (~S$8) through app or NZ$12 (~S$10.60) through web site
– Worldwide Customer Conservation and Tourism Levy: Paid along with NZeTA at NZ$35 (~S$31)
Vaccination Certification
Journey Declaration

Journey necessities

SIM card: 10GB for 60 days (~S$42) — acquire at Christchurch Worldwide Airport upon arrival
Journey Insurance coverage (~S$6.30/day)
Automobile Rental: we received a five-seater SUV Nissan Xtrail (S$75/day)

All over the place in New Zealand accepts card funds so money isn’t vital. We used multi-currency playing cards like Revolut for funds as an alternative.

New Zealand South Island Itinerary Overview

We flew direct from Singapore to Christchurch, picked up our rental automotive, and dropped it off in Queenstown earlier than catching a flight out through Sydney.

*Professional-tip: Wildlife experiences are extremely weather-dependent so it’s really useful to plan them at the beginning of the journey so you may shift issues round in case of dangerous climate.

Click on to leap to every city: Christchurch |  Akaroa | Kaikoura | Arthur’s Move | TekapoWanaka Te AnauMilford Sound Queenstown

Day 1 (Arrival): Christchurch

Christchurch Tram - New Zealand South Island

Arriving at Christchurch Airport, we headed to the town to take a look at some iconic actions just like the Christchurch Gondola, Punting on the Avon, and the Christchurch Tram.

*Professional-tip: Buy the Christchurch Move (~S$76) which incorporates entry for all three! Plus, there’s a ~S$24 low cost on the actions.

Punt Trip on the Avon

Friends on a christchurch punt ride - New Zealand South Island Itinerary

After a protracted flight, this stress-free 30-minute river tour is a stunning option to decompress from the tiring journey alongside scenic views of the Christchurch Botanic Gardens.

We received actually near the river’s wildlife akin to their resident swan, Natalie, and discovered enjoyable info in regards to the backyard and its historical past. To not point out, our punter’s witty storytelling made the journey additional enjoyable!

*Professional-tip: Name to ebook a timeslot earlier than heading down for the tour

Opening hours: 10AM – 4PM (Apr – Oct), 9AM – 4:30PM (Nov – Mar)
Assembly level: Antigua Boat Sheds, 2 Cambridge Terrace, Christchurch Central Metropolis, Christchurch 8013, New Zealand

Christchurch Gondola

Christchurch Gondola - New Zealand South Island Itinerary

A brief 17-minute drive from the town, the Christchurch Gondola introduced us up 445m above sea degree to the summit of Port Hill. From the highest, we loved beautiful aerial views of Lyttleton Harbour and Christchurch metropolis.

Opening hours: 10AM – 5PM 
Handle: 10 Bridle Path Highway, Heathcote Valley, Christchurch 8022, New Zealand

The place to remain in Christchurch (2 nights): Aotea Motel (Christchurch) — two-bedroom condominium (S$166/evening). It’s situated close to many eateries and solely an 8min drive to the punt journey.

The place to eat in Christchurch: The Little Fiddle affords nice bar meals with categorical lunch units (NZ$16 mains with each beverage bought, ~S$14).

Day 2: Akaroa

Christchurch to Akaroa: 81km (~1hr)

Girl looking at scenery in Akaroa - New Zealand South Island Itinerary

Akaroa is a homely city that sits on the Banks Peninsula — an extinct volcano complicated space composed of the stays of two drowned volcanic craters on the South Island.

Pohatu Penguin Watching

Pohatu penguin nestling in box in Akaroa - New Zealand South Island Itinerary

Down at Flea Bay, the Pohatu penguins are the largest Australasian Little Penguin colony.

Annually, wild penguins hop on land looking for nesting areas for the breeding season. These tiny picket containers had been thus constructed by workers members for that function.

Man looking at penguin nestling boxes in Akaroa - New Zealand South Island Itinerary

For the penguins, looking for nesting properties is very like in search of BTOs. Those that arrive early earlier than the breeding season get to “reserve” their containers, whereas late-comers should combat for a spot or just journey additional inland.

Homes by the waters are excessive in demand, and occupied by the strongest — robust penguins who win fights! ⚔️

Pohatu Penguin Akaroa - New Zealand South Island Itinerary

As Pohatu Penguins is a family-run enterprise, the excursions assist fund conservation efforts together with their analysis on penguin monitoring. So rise up shut to those penguins as you accompany workers members on their every day monitoring routine!

Put on correct mountain climbing sneakers as there’s some off-road trekking concerned.

*Professional-tip: The most effective time to catch the penguins is through the breeding season from September to mid-February. Verify your probabilities of viewing the Pohatu penguins earlier than reserving because the chance varies relying on the season.

Value: ~S$157 for a 2.5hr tour
Tour timings: Varies relying on season
Assembly level: Wildside Reserving Workplace 2/8 Rue Balguerie, Akaroa 7520, New Zealand

Day 3 – 4: Kaikoura

Akaroa to Kaikoura: 264km (~3.5hr)

Kaikoura Scenery and Seal - New Zealand South Island Itinerary

Positioned near the Hikurangi Trench (a deep-water canyon system), Kaikoura is a hotspot for marine wildlife together with whales, seals, and dolphins all year-round.

It’s a slight detour up north, however definitely worth the journey because it affords the very best likelihood of catching New Zealand’s wildlife of their pure habitat.

Swimming with Dolphins

Swimmers swimming with dolphins in Kaikoura - New Zealand South Island Itinerary

Throw in your wetsuit and go for a swim with wild dusky dolphins. Playful and pleasant, these mild creatures come up actual near you in teams of 4 or 5 at a time.

We had been taught a number of distinctive strategies to carry their consideration — with one involving inexplicable screeching underwater. It felt actually foolish, however having wild dolphins circle curiously round us made it utterly value it 💯

Kaikoura Swimming with Dusky Dolphins in Wetsuits - New Zealand South Island Guide

The overall swimming time is restricted to half-hour per tour group to minimise our affect on the pure setting. It could not sound lengthy, however we had been totally drained by the tip of our session.

For non-swimmers, the dolphin-watching tour additionally affords a very good view from the boat because the dolphins playfully carry out tips and spins out of the water — all of their very own will!

*Be aware: Floats can be found for much less skilled swimmers.

Value: ~S$94 for watching, ~S$183 for swimming
Tour timings:
10AM (Might – Sep), 8:30AM and 12:30PM (Oct – Apr)
Assembly level:
96 Esplanade, Kaikōura 7300, New Zealand

Kayaking with Seals

Kayak with Seals Kaikoura - New Zealand South Island Itinerary

Catch seals basking underneath the solar on this stress-free two-and-a-half-hour kayak tour. Kayakers might catch some swimming proper by their kayaks and even get slapped on the face with an octopus! Who is aware of, you might be the subsequent fortunate one 😉

Kaikoura Wildlife Kayaking Tour - New Zealand South Island Guide

The tour is appropriate for newbies as fundamentals are taught earlier than heading out. Whereas night excursions are nice to catch the sundown, morning excursions are higher for brand spanking new kayakers with calmer waters.

Value: ~S$104/grownup for a 2.5hr tour
Tour timings: 8:30AM, 12:30PM, 3:30PM
Assembly level: 18 Seaside Highway, Kaikoura 7300, New Zealand

Kaikoura Peninsula Walkway

Kaikoura Scenery and Seal - New Zealand South Island Itinerary

Kaikoura Peninsula Walkway is a well-liked clifftop stroll that takes round three hours to finish, although you may select to cowl brief sections of it.

Views of snowcapped alpines and the ocean left us starstruck, however what actually shocked us was this wild seal that hobbled up actually near us. Seal sightings are apparently actually widespread within the space, however do attempt to keep out of their path!

Kaikoura Waterfronts Apartment - New Zealand South Island Itinerary

The place to remain in Kaikoura (2 nights): Kaikoura Waterfront Residences — two-bedroom condominium with a kitchen and lounge (~S$152/evening). The condominium was clear and cosy, and situated only a brief five-minute stroll from Dolphin Encounter Kaikoura.

The place to eat in Kaikoura:

Crayfish at Strawberry Tree Restaurant Kaikoura - New Zealand South Island Itinerary

Strawberry Tree Restaurant serves contemporary seafood — we particularly loved the Crayfish and Inexperienced Lipped Mussels (NZ$22, ~S$19). In the meantime, Seaside Home Cafe had the perfect creamy Seafood Chowder (NZ$19, ~S$17) I’ve ever had, filled with scallops, mussels, shrimp, and extra!

Enjoyable reality: Kaikoura stands for “Eat Crayfish” in Maori, so you recognize what to order 🙂

Day 5: Arthur’s Move and Fortress Hill

Kaikoura to Arthur’s Move: 213km (~3hrs)

Devil's Punchbowl - New Zealand Arthur's Pass

Arthur’s Move is the very best mountain cross over the Southern Alps at an elevation of 920m. The drive round Arthur’s Move guarantees superb alpine surroundings and makes for probably the most lovely highway journeys round New Zealand’s South Island!

Satan’s Punchbowl Waterfall

Devils Punchbowl Waterfall - New Zealand South Island Itinerary

Standing at 131m tall, the Satan’s Punchbowl Waterfall plunges dramatically into surrounding rock cabinets forming a “punchbowl”, giving it its title.

The path is a comparatively manageable one, albeit a big variety of steps. However if you happen to’re like us, the mini stops we took gawking at beautiful mountain views offers you ample breaks alongside the best way.

Entrance charge: Free
Distance: 2km (~45mins)
Issue ranking: 1.5/5
Start line: Satan’s Punchbowl Carpark, Arthur’s Move Village 7875, New Zealand

Kura Tawhiti Fortress Hill Conservation Space

Girl walking along limestone rock s in Kura Tawhiti Arthur's Pass - New Zealand South Island Itinerary

Despite the fact that we visited Kura Tawhiti on our earlier journey, we determined to move down as soon as once more throughout sundown this time, to catch these large limestone boulders in a brand new mild.

Girl at Castle Hill Kura Tawhiti - New Zealand South Island Itinerary

The boulders was hidden underneath an inland sea that subsequently retracted. As such, water erosion gave rise to their distinctive shapes!

In the present day, the 1.4km monitor is nice for an informal scenic stroll and is common amongst climbers.

Drive to Castle Hill from Arthur's Pass - New Zealand South Island Itinerary

It’s a 40-minute drive all the way down to Kura Tawhiti from Satan’s Punchbowl however the views alongside the best way are phenomenal ✨

Entrance charge: Free
Distance: 1.4km (~20mins)
Issue ranking: 1/5
Start line: Kura Tawhiti Carpark, Fortress Hill 7580, New Zealand

Arthur's Pass Alpine Motel - New Zealand South Island Itinerary

The place to remain in Arthur’s Move: Arthur’s Move Alpine Motel — Consolation Household Chalet (~S$161/evening). A brief drive from most mountain climbing trails akin to Satan’s Punchbowl monitor or Avalanche Peak.

The place to eat in Arthur’s Move: Arthur’s Move solely has two cafes — Wobbly Kea and Problem Arthur’s Move Cafe — which shut early, so it’s finest to refill on groceries in Christchurch!

Day 6: Tekapo

Arthur’s Move to Tekapo: 311km (~4hrs)

Lake Tekapo Sunset  - New Zealand South Island Itinerary

Tekapo is a sparsely-populated city dwelling to Lake Tekapo. Well-known for its darkish evening skies, Tekapo attracts vacationers trying to catch a glimpse of the elusive Southern Lights.

Mount John Summit Circuit Monitor

Tekapo Mount John Summit Viewpoint - New Zealand South Island Guide

On the high of this 3km round-trip monitor is a panoramic overview of the Mackenzie Basin, Lake Tekapo, and surrounding mountains. Beginning off from Tekapo Sizzling Springs, it’s a gradual ascent by a forest earlier than persevering with alongside an open grassland to the summit.

*Be aware: When you’re brief on time, you may skip the hike and drive as much as the summit for an NZ$8 entrance charge (~S$7) per automotive.

Entrance charge: Free
Distance: 3km
Beneficial time: 1.5hrs
Start line: Tekapo Sizzling Springs, 6 Lakeside Drive, Lake Tekapo 7999, New Zealand

Church of the Good Shepherd

Church of the good Shepherd during sunset - New Zealand South Island Itinerary

Constructed as a memorial to early settlers of the Mackenzie area, the Church of the Good Shepherd is Tekapo’s most well-known landmark.

This charming centrepiece is framed fantastically by the lake’s blue waters and distant Southern Alps, making it a preferred spot for marriage ceremony shoots.

Stargaze at Lake Tekapo

Sunset at Lake Tekapo - New Zealand South Island

Lake Tekapo is an internationally-recognised “Darkish Sky Reserve“. These are locations with much less mild air pollution, making their darker skies distinctive for stargazing with excessive possibilities of catching the Southern Lights.

Whereas we weren’t fortunate sufficient for the Southern Lights, the large blanket of stars at evening was positively a sight to behold. Tell us within the feedback if you happen to’re one of many few to catch it!

*Professional-tip: Put together heat jackets to stay toasty given the chilly winds at evening 💨.

Lae Tekapo Cottages - New Zealand South Island Itinerary

The place to remain in Tekapo: Lake Tekapo Cottages — Three-Bed room Vacation Dwelling, 1 King Mattress & 1 Queen Mattress (~S$228/evening), with a separate kitchen and eating space. It’s spacious and conveniently situated only a four-minute stroll from the Church of the Good Shepherd.

Day 7: Wanaka

Tekapo to Wanaka: 194km (~2hrs)

that wanaka tree - New Zealand South Island Itinerary

A shot of this movie star tree will certainly earn you bragging rights 😎

Wanaka has many well-known sights, together with #thatwanakatree (sure, the tree has its personal hashtag) and common hikes like Roy’s Peak and the Isthmus Peak. Aside from unimaginable surroundings, Wanaka can also be dwelling to the most important ski space on the South Island.

Mount Cook dinner Alpine Salmon at Lake Pukaki

Mount Cook Alpine Salmon at Lake Pukaki - New Zealand South Island Itinerary

Earlier than reaching Wanaka, we stopped by Lake Pukaki with one purpose in thoughts: Mount Cook dinner Alpine Salmon!

The salmon right here was extremely plump and contemporary — we went straight for the final huge pack of salmon (NZ$40/500g, ~S$35) and a few smaller ones (NZ$12/100g, ~S$11).

Lake Pukaki Visitors Enjoying Mount Cook Alpine Salmon - New Zealand South Island Guide

Salmon apart, we had been accompanied by a beautiful view of Lake Pukaki and Mount Cook dinner by the lakefront, topping off our luxurious but inexpensive “breakfast with a view” 😋

Opening hours: 9AM – 5PM (relying on climate)
Handle: Lake Pukaki Info Centre, Pukaki 7999, New Zealand

Roy’s Peak Monitor

When you’ve been on a good variety of hikes and assume “I’m match and Roy’s Peak appears manageable”, right here’s a disclaimer: It’s actually not.

In comparison with all of the hikes we’ve been on in Singapore, Roy’s Peak is a complete new ball sport. The six-hour round-trip hike is a steep uphill climb to the perspective, with slopes inclined at almost 45° angles.

The perspective (pictured above) is the place you’d wanna hit for the well-known shot of Roy’s Peak as an alternative of the particular summit, and that’ll prevent 3km or one hour of mountain climbing.

Friends hiking up Roys Peak - New Zealand South Island

You may undergo an existential disaster on the best way up like us, however fortunately, the views on the high had been value it. In reality, the gruelling journey made the views of alpines and Lake Wanaka at sundown additional rewarding and bittersweet :’)

*Professional-tip: Pack lunch and convey headlamps (for these meaning to hike down after sundown) as there aren’t any path lights alongside the best way!

Entrance charge: NZ$2 (~S$1.70)
Distance: 16km
Beneficial time: 6hrs
Issue ranking: 4/5
Start line: Roy’s Peak Monitor Parking, Glendhu Bay 9382, New Zealand

Sunrise at Edgewater Hotel - New Zealand Wanaka

The place to remain in Wanaka: Edgewater Resort (Wanaka) — Lakeview Resort Room (~S$145/ evening for 2pax). It’s a brief stroll from the lake itself and contains widespread amenities like a spa and tennis courtroom.

The place to eat in Wanaka: Amigos‘ deliciously stuffed Burritos (~NZ$19, S$17) and tacos (~NZ$8/ taco, ~S$7) had been all we would have liked after our intense hike.

Day 8: Te Anau

Wanaka to Te Anau: 227km (~3hrs)

Milford Sound Drive Scenic Stop - New Zealand South Island Guide

Te Anau is the gateway to the favored Milford Sound, which is understood for its beautiful Fiordland. Nonetheless, this small city additionally has a lot to supply together with its enchanting glowworm caves and the well-known Kepler Monitor.

Te Anau Glowworm Cave Tour

Te Anau Glowworm Cave - New Zealand South Island Itinerary

Picture credit score: Klook

Glowworms are native to New Zealand and thrive in darkish caves, making a magical underworld lit by their bioluminescence. The Te Anau Glowworm Caves tour is nice to identify them up shut as guides share their data in regards to the glowworms and caves.

Surprisingly, glowworms aren’t really worms — we’ll go away you to search out out extra 😉

Value: ~S$88/grownup for a 2hr 15min tour
Tour timings: 10:15AM, 2PM
Assembly level: 85 Lakefront Drive, Te Anau 9640, New Zealand

Fiordland Jet Pure Wilderness Journey

Fiordland jet Tekapo - New Zealand South Island Itinerary

Velocity down the Waiau River on a jet boat journey earlier than reaching the beautiful Lake Manapouri. This lake is supposedly 99.98% contemporary and we received to confirm this reality by taking a sip of water straight out of it.

Drinking Lake Manapouri Water - New Zealand South Island Itinerary

As anticipated, the water tasted actually nice and as kiasu Singaporeans, we regretted not bringing our bottles alongside for a refill :’)

Te Anau Fiordland Jet Walking through Fiordland-New Zealand South Island Guide

We additionally received to stroll alongside a brief part of the well-known Kepler Monitor. For all of the LOTR followers, you’ll get to geek out on acquainted scenes from the film as you jet boat by the film’s Anduin River (AKA the Nice River)!

Value: ~S$151/grownup for a 2hr tour
Tour timings: 10AM, 2PM, 4PM, 5PM, 6PM
Assembly level: 84 Lakefront Drive, Lakefront, Te Anau 9600, New Zealand

The place to remain in Te Anau: Lakefront Lodge — House, 1 Bed room, Jetted Tub (~S$223/evening). A five-minute stroll from sights such because the Fiordland Jetboat and Lake Te Anau

The place to eat in Te Anau:

Bao Now Te Anau - New Zealand South Island Itinerary

Miles Higher Pies had superb stuffed pies whereas Bao Now is a meals truck that sells scrumptious and inexpensive fusion dishes. The distinctive creations of baos and sushi bowls (~NZ$13, ~S$11.50) had been overflowing with stuffings, and the loaded fries (NZ$9.50, ~S$8) had been crisp but generously sauced!

Day 9: Milford Sound

Te Anau to Milford Sound: 118km (~1.5hrs)

Milford Sound Landscapes - New Zealand South Island Guide

The drive all the way down to Milford Sound is unbelievably lovely, and scenic spots such because the Tutoko Bridge or Eglinton Valley compelled us out of the automotive a number of occasions.

Milford Sound Drive Tutoko Bridge - New Zealand South Island Guide

As such, we suggest including an hour or extra of drive time than advised on Google Maps as you’d in all probability wanna cease for photograph breaks like these!

When you’re in luck, you might even catch sight of some cheeky locals within the space — the Kea!

Kea Bird in Milford Sound - New Zealand South Island Itinerary

We had been cautioned by locals about these mischievous (but extraordinarily lovely) birds and their antics. They’ve received a status for nipping rubber seals off vehicles, so that you’d in all probability wish to hold away all unfastened gadgets.

Kea Bird in Milford Sound - New Zealand Milford Sound

Shouting and stamping of ft to chase them away positively does NOT work — belief us, we’ve tried 😐

Enjoyable reality: The Kea is an endangered species of enormous parrot native to the forested and alpine vary in South Island New Zealand — recognized affectionately because the ‘Clown of the Alps’ to locals.

Milford Sound Cruise

Milford Sound Cruise Real Journeys Guest Looking Out - New Zealand South Island Guide

The Fiordland in Milford Sound is beautiful, and the easiest way to understand its magnificence is with this stress-free two-hour cruise journey.

On sunny days, solar rays peek by the mountains and mist to create a dreamy setting. In the meantime, on wet days, you’ll spot a lot of mini waterfalls cascading down the perimeters of those grand mountains.

Milford Sound Cruise Real Journeys Waterfall - New Zealand South Island Guide

The cruise additionally inches near bigger waterfalls, so step out onto the deck if you happen to’re up for a splash!

We suggest going for an early cruise so that you’d have time to discover the remainder of Milford Sound (together with the well-known Milford Sound Swing).

*Professional-tip: Park on the Milford Sound Public Carpark (NZ$10/hr, ~S$9) as there isn’t any parking at Milford Sound Customer Terminal. The carpark is a 10min stroll to the terminal and a 5min stroll to the swing.

Value: ~S$77/grownup for a 2hr cruise (Be aware: Drinks and snacks are bought on board however cost is by money solely)
Tour timings: 11AM, 1:15PM
Assembly level: Milford Sound Customer Terminal, Milford 9679, New Zealand

The place to eat in Milford Sound:

Friends having picnic in Milford Sound - New Zealand Milford Sound

There are three choices — Milford Sound Info Centre Cafe, Pio Pio or to pack a picnic lunch! We selected the third choice at an outside seating space for the views (although be warned, there have been a number of sandflies round 😩).

Heartland Hotel Queenstown - New Zealand Queenstown

The place to remain in Queenstown: Heartland Resort Queenstown — Household Room (~S$222/evening). A 3-minute drive to city, our spacious two-floored condominium had distinctive A-frame home windows, permitting us to catch the morning dawn from our beds.

Day 10 12: Queenstown

Milford Sound to Queenstown: 288km (~3.5hrs)

Friends sitting at Lake Wakatipu - New Zealand South Island Itinerary

Queenstown is a must-visit whereas highway tripping round New Zealand. Often known as the “Journey Capital of the World”, the infinite record of actions right here caters to folks of all thrill appetites. To not point out, the meals and purchasing choices are countless!

Queenstown Quad Bike Journey

Friends Quad Biking in Queenstown - New Zealand South Island Itinerary

Quad bike adventures have all the time been a fan favorite and for good purpose.

Nomad Safaris takes the thrilling expertise up a notch as you get pleasure from 360° views of Queenstown and the Remarkables mountain vary whereas biking up Queenstown Hill on a personal sheep farm!

Quad Bike on Queenstown Hill - Things to do in Queenstown New Zealand

The bikes listed below are large ones utilized by native farmers. The problem is available in controlling these huge boys alongside uneven trails as you strive to not flip over or run your self off the hill edge — you are able to do that later within the canyon swing 😉

However don’t fear, a obligatory coaching session will assist put together you for the journey up!

On the high, we loved a splendid overview of the Shotover Canyon with a stunning breakfast unfold of banana muffins and cookies ready by our pleasant guides.

Value: ~S$263/pax for a 3.5hr tour (Contributors have to be 16 years outdated and above)
Tour timings: 8:30AM
Assembly level: Resort pick-up is offered

Shotover Canyon Swing

Queenstown Shotover Canyon Swing Tandem Jump - New Zealand Queenstown

Embrace your fears as you swing throughout the Queenstown Shotover Canyon from a whopping top of 109m with 60m of freefall!

With over 30 leap types, everybody from self-proclaimed chickens to extremely thrill-seekers can get their fill of journey. Right here’s our concern issue rating for the varied leap types:

Degree 1: The Courageous Chickens — Tandem swing, Cutaway, Ahead

Friends Screaming on Tandem Swing - New Zealand Queenstown

Chickens can fly along with the tandem swing… bok bok!

Degree 2: The Adventurous — Trike, Chair, Indian Rope

Tricycle Canyon Swing - New Zealand Queenstown

I’m not too certain why anybody would take into consideration using a tricycle off a cliff…

Degree 3: The Not-in-the-right-minds — Sparta, Pin Drop, Gimp Boy

Man Sparta Kicked down Canyon - New Zealand Queenstown

The leap grasp’s kick actually despatched Chao flying out into the open :O

Value: ~S$177/pax, NZ$30 (~S$27) for a second leap — pay on-site
Tour timings: 9:30AM, 10:30AM, 12PM, 1PM, 2:30PM, 3:30PM
Assembly level: 34 Shotover Road, Queenstown 9300, New Zealand

Zipline Expertise

Girl Ziplining in Queenstown - New Zealand South Island

From the highest of Bob’s Peak, absorb Queenstown’s scenic views by zipping by the forest with Ziptrek Ecotours.

We booked the Moa 4-line Zipline, however a six-zipline choice can also be accessible with the sixth zipline being a 30-storey descent to the underside of Bob’s Peak mountain at a pace of 112km/hr!

Ziplining upside down at bob peak - Things to do in New Zealand

If that isn’t sufficient pleasure for you, thrill-seekers may also check out completely different types of ziplining — going the wrong way up or doing a belief fall.

*Be aware: The Gondola journey required to get to the assembly level shouldn’t be included and must be bought individually.

Value: ~S$133/grownup for the Moa 4-Zipline tour, ~S$173/grownup for the Kea 6-Zipline tour
Tour timings: 4PM
Assembly level: Ziptrek Treehouse, 45 Camp Road, Queenstown 9300, New Zealand (situated on the high of the Skyline Gondola)

Onsen Sizzling Swimming pools

Friends Soaking in Onsen Hot Pools - New Zealand Queenstown

Positioned down South, Queenstown is chilly ❄️ — even in the summertime! And that’s what makes a heat soak down on the Onsen Sizzling Swimming pools a lot extra rejuvenating.

Every pool is heated to ~38.5°C and adjusted twice every day with pure water from the encompassing mountains.

What’s extra, you’re accompanied by an incredible view of the Remarkables and the Shotover River, with complimentary snacks and drinks supplied. That is really the easiest way to heat up for an thrilling day of actions forward.

Our solely criticism — one hour is approach too brief! :<

Value: From ~S$47/grownup for 1hr
Opening hours: 9AM – 10PM
Handle: 162 Arthurs Level Highway, Arthurs Level, Queenstown 9371, New Zealand

Saturday Queenstown Arts & Crafts Market

When you’re in Queenstown on a Saturday, cease by the Arts & Crafts Market for a vibrant show of artworks from native creators.

It’s conveniently situated by the lakefront, and gadgets bought embrace pottery, jewelry, earrings, scented aroma stones, and rather more! Every paintings carried the sincerity and onerous work of its artist, who passionately shared their inventive journey with us.

Girl looking at arts at Arts Market - New Zealand Queenstown

This can be a good spot to choose up souvenirs, though we certain had a tough time selecting!

Value: Free
Opening hours: 9AM – 4:30PM (Sat, Summer time), 9:30AM – 3:30PM (Sat, Winter)
Handle: Marine Parade, Queenstown 9300, New Zealand

Lake Wakatipu

Girl walking along Lake Wakatipu lakefront - New Zealand Queenstown

A stroll alongside the lakefront simply reveals how lovely Lake Wakatipu is. Because of its uncommon lightning bolt form, the waters transfer up and down forming mild “tides” (or a standing wave).

Queenstown Lake Wakatipu Viewpoint - New Zealand South Island Guide

To catch the lake in all of its magnificence, head to a better vantage level at Lake Wakatipu Viewpoint (76/92 Hensman Highway). It was really useful by our quad bike information for having the perfect views of Lake Wakatipu!

Native Delicacies in Queenstown

Cafe food from Yonder - New Zealand Queenstown

After all, we will’t miss out on an important factor on each Singaporean’s thoughts: Meals! Queenstown affords merely an excessive amount of good meals that I needed to squeeze into this New Zealand South Island itinerary.

Fergburger, Fergbaker, Mrs Ferg

Fergburger Double Beef and Cheese - New Zealand Best Things to Do

Nicknamed the “finest burger joint on the planet“, Fergburger is a must-try in Queenstown. You’ll be able to’t go flawed with the traditional Fergburger (NZ$13.40, ~S$11.70), though unique creations like Candy Bambi (NZ$15.40, ~S$13.50) with deer meat are additionally value a strive.

Fergburder by Lake Wakatipu - New Zealand Queenstown

Given its recognition, Fergburger is nearly all the time crowded with restricted seats for eating. We opted for takeaway and walked to the Lake Wakatipu lakefront two minutes away to get pleasure from our burger with a view!

Friends eating Fergbaker - New Zealand Queenstown

Proper beside Fergburger, you’ll discover Fergbaker and Mrs Ferg — a bakery store and a gelato store from the identical franchise. We had been too full for ice cream, however the contemporary bakes and stuffed pies from Fergbaker had been merely pleasant ✨

Fergburger
Opening hours: 8AM – 2AM (Mon – Fri), 8AM – 4:30AM (Sat – Solar)
Handle: 42 Shotover Road, Queenstown 9300, New Zealand

Fergbaker
Opening hours: 6AM – 10PM (Mon – Fri), 6AM – 12AM (Sat – Solar)
Handle: 40 Shotover Road, Queenstown 9300, New Zealand

Mrs Ferg Gelateria
Opening hours: 6AM – 9PM
Handle: 40 Shotover Road, Queenstown 9300, New Zealand

Vudu cafe eggs benedict - New Zealand Queenstown

For lunch, Yonder and Vudu Cafe affords scrumptious cafe meals at inexpensive costs.

Friends Drinking coffee at Mackenzie Coffee - New Zealand Queenstown

Snack breaks are additionally lots. We had nice espresso at Mackenzie Espresso Co. and teatime desserts at Patagonia Goodies.

Captains Dinner - New Zealand South Island Itinerary

Lastly, Captains affords nice positive eating seafood if you happen to’re trying to splurge.

Funds Breakdown of New Zealand South Island Itinerary

Friends posing at Lake Pukaki - New Zealand Wanaka

Lodging: S$551.55
Transport: S$335.67
Actions: S$1,457.50
Miscellaneous: S$418.60 (incl. meals and Covid-related bills)
Whole: S$2,763.33 (Excl. Flights)

(detailed breakdown for one pax right here)

Flights aren’t included within the price range for this New Zealand South Island itinerary, since costs range all yr spherical.

New Zealand might not be the most affordable nation to journey to, however we managed to get probably the most bang for our buck by reserving our actions through Klook. The method was clean and a few actions even had prompt affirmation — we simply needed to point out our title to redeem our reserving. Plus, the number of actions supplied made itinerary planning actually handy.

Listed here are the excursions and actions we booked:
The Christchurch Move (~S$76)
Kaikoura Dolphin Encounter: Swimming with Dolphins (~S$183)
Seal Kayaking Journey in Kaikoura (~S$104)
Pohatu Bay Penguin Watching Tour (~S$157)
Te Anau Glowworm Cave Tour (~S$89)
Fiordland Jet Pure Wilderness Journey (~S$151)
Milford Sound Cruise by Actual Journeys (~S$77)
Queenstown Quad Bike Journey (~S$263)
Shotover Canyon Swing (~S$177)
Moa 4-Zipline Expertise in Queenstown (~S$133)
Onsen Sizzling Swimming pools Queenstown (~S$47)

Paid actions apart, we additionally stored a very good steadiness of free hikes to take advantage of out of the scenic pure landscapes right here.

Moreover, eating out in New Zealand’s South Island is dear so we opted to grocery store and cook dinner on most nights to avoid wasting on meals bills.

Girl posing in open grassland - New Zealand South Island Itinerary

It’s simple to see why New Zealand is a dream vacation spot for a lot of — with breathtaking alpines, pristine mountain lakes, and an intensive range of wildlife creating an nearly ethereal fairytale surroundings 🏔

And regardless of this being our second journey to the South Island, we had been equally dazzled by the scenic nature landscapes, even alongside random roadside stops on our drive — there’s simply a lot of New Zealand left to discover!

Girl sitting at Lake Wanaka lakefront - New Zealand South Island Itinerary

As journey recovers and we head abroad to fulfil our wanderlust, we shouldn’t neglect to practise accountable and sustainable tourism — respecting the native tradition and pure landscapes as we go to!

Which experiences from this New Zealand South Island Itinerary are you most excited to strive? Tell us within the feedback under!


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