The earth certainly took a great effort to create the South Island of New Zealand. Incredible expanses, turquoise water and colourful landscapes. Not to forget the many little sheep, of course! New Zealand has a lot to offer, but now we will focus exclusively on the South Island. If you are interested in the North Island, feel free to take a look at this article.
1. Roys Peak
Our highlight on the South Island? Roys Peak! The super long hike was really worth it with these views. The approximately 1.5-kilometre-high mountain was a challenge as we were on the trail all day and hiked about 16 kilometres. Not just walking, but hiking up and down the mountain. However, when we walked through the clouds and the plants were suddenly frozen at the top, the effort was worth it.
2. Kaikoura
What do we associate with Kaikoura? Whales, dolphins and seals! Having breakfast on the coast, we actually spotted an orca, and you can also see seals relaxing on the shore. The small (or relatively large) animals are really adorable, so we didn’t want to say goodbye to them. From Kaikoura, you can also book whale tours to watch the giants of the sea. Be aware of the different seasons though!
3. Nugget Point
Nugget Point, called Tokatā in the Māori language, is a cape located in the Catlins in the Clutha District of Otago. The short walk from the car park to the famous lighthouse has some beautiful views, but the view of the lighthouse at the end of the walk is the best. Whether during the day, at dusk or at night, Nugget Point is definitely a highlight.
4. Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park
The largest mountain on New Zealand’s South Island is Mt.Cook in Aoraki National Park. A short walk of about 3 kilometres takes you from the car park, over three suspension bridges to many different viewing platforms. At the end, the highlight is waiting for you: Hooker Lake surrounded by a beautiful mountain backdrop. In winter you can look forward to a wintry, snowy atmosphere, but even in summer there are often small icebergs on the lake. Cook im Aoraki National Park.
Ein kleiner Fußmarsch von circa 3 Kilometern bringt euch vom Parkplatz, über drei Hängebrücken, über Stock und Stein zu vielen verschiedenen Aussichtsplattformen.
Am Schluss wartet auch euch das Highlight: der Hooker Lake umringt von einer wunderschönen Bergkulisse.
Im Winter kann man sich auf eine winterliche, schneeverwehte Atmosphäre freuen, aber auch im Sommer befinden sich oftmals kleine Eisberge auf dem See.
5. Lake Tekapo & Lake Pukaki
Driving unsuspectingly through the middle of the country, you are greeted by two turquoise blue glacial lakes. It’s not just the colours of Lake Tekapo and Lake Pukaki that are stunning, but also their fantastic location in the beautiful Mackenzie District overlooking the New Zealand Alps.
6. Queenstown
The most beautiful town in the South Island? Definitely Queenstown! Finally a big city without skyscrapers. The atmosphere is much more pleasant and natural. Next to the city there is the beautiful Lake Wakatipu. Our photo highlights, however, were taken at a different location: Bob’s Peak. You can take a gondola up the mountain and you will be surprised by a beautiful view over the lake and the city.
7. The Wanaka Tree
Lake Wanaka is located in the west of the Otago region and is a popular tourist magnet. Visitors are offered a lot – from deep glacial lakes to snow-dusted mountain landscapes. It’s also home to THE Wanaka tree. The word “The” is very significant, as it’s the most famous tree in the area. Why? Well, it’ s sitting in the water. All by itself, making it a real eye-catcher and a popular photo location.
8. Christchurch
If you’ve paid any attention to the history of New Zealand or listened to the news, you’ll be familiar with the Christchurch earthquake on 22 February 2011. The entire city centre was in ruins, 185 people lost their lives and about 5,900 were injured. Today, when you walk through the city centre, there’s actually nothing reminiscent of this catastrophe. The city has been beautifully rebuilt and is literally glowing.
9. Moeraki Boulders
The Moeraki Boulders are really impressive. The boulders, which resemble dinosaur eggs, are located on Koekohe Beach between Moeraki and Hamden. They are definitely worth a visit; you feel transported back in time, where a giant dinosaur egg could hatch at any time.
10. Lake Matheson
Lake Matheson is known for its reflection in the water. When the water is calm, you can see a reflection of Mount Cook and Mount Tasman in the water. In fact, this mirroring looks so real that in some pictures you don’t even know what’s top or bottom.
