New Zealand South Island

Endless outdoor activities.

New Zealand's South Island (Te Waipounamu) is a land of dramatic contrasts, defined by the towering Southern Alps, glacial-fed turquoise lakes, rugged West Coast, and world-renowned fjords like Milford Sound, offering unparalleled adventure from hiking glaciers (Franz Josef, Fox) and exploring national parks (Abel Tasman, Aoraki/Mount Cook) to adrenaline-pumping Queenstown, all connected by stunning scenic drives through diverse landscapes. It's a paradise for photographers and nature lovers, blending Maori culture with breathtaking wilderness, from golden beaches to snow-capped peaks, promising an unforgettable journey. On our first morning in New Zealand we awoke to this sight right outside our bedroom window at the Hermitage.