From its breathtaking landscapes and stunning natural wonders to its vibrant culture and friendly locals, the South Island of New Zealand is a traveler’s paradise.
My journey started in Christchurch, where I was immediately struck by the city’s unique blend of modernity and heritage buildings. With an eclectic mix of art galleries, museums, cafes and bars nestled within post-quake rebuilds across central Christchurch including The Terrace hospitality precinct along Oxford Terace serving up local culinary delights; this city had something for everyone.
After exploring the city for a while I headed off on my road trip starting with Akaroa – A quaint little town located just 90 minutes’ drive from Christchurch offering up dolphin watching cruises and amazing boutique shops Lined with charming colonial architecture; this picturesque little gem looked straight out of a postcard.
It wasn’t long before I reached Arthur’s Pass National Park – one of my favourite stops during my travels throughout the region. Filled with snow-capped peaks that seemed so close you could almost touch them stretched out as far as my eyes would allow and numerous walking trails through pristine forests; Arthur’s Pass National Park offers incredible views every way you look.
There are endless activities here: you can go hiking or skiing at Porters Ski Area in Canterbury or rock climbing at Castle Hill – Known more famously from Narnia Chronicles movie series featuring C.S Lewis’ novel ‘The Lion The Witch & Wardrobe’.
What followed next was another unforgettable experience – Franz Josef Glacier!
I embarked on one of Franz Josef Glacier Guides helicopter tours overlooking staggering ice formations which made me feel like I was on top of the world! And if you’re feeling more adventurous than I did then try taking a guided tour onto Fox Glacier right next to Franz Josef.
The cherry on the top of my South Island trip was Queenstown – known as a hub for adventure with activities like bungee jumping, skydiving, canyon swing and popular ski fields such as Cardrona Alpine Resort, Coronet Peak or Remarkables Mountain Range. Being here felt like being in an action-adventure movie set!
Queenstown is also home to some amazing restaurants where one can indulge in local cuisine after a day full of adventure be it simple bacon and egg pie from Fergburger bakery or fresh seafood chowder paired with your favourite wine overlooking picturesque views from any side you turn at Botswana Butchery restaurant by the wharf – every bite will leave you wanting more.
To sum up my experience, discovering the Beauty of New Zealand’s South Island had been nothing short of magical. The region offers so much to see and experience that even if you stay for months it would still not be enough time! A place like this truly deserves its popularity amongst travellers worldwide – I can’t wait to explore this land again someday soon.
