Essential South Island

Get your adrenaline pumping in thrill-seeking Queenstown. White knuckle adventures are the order of the day in this pretty lakeside town - choose from skydiving, jetboating, bungee jumping and skiing. If that’s not your bag you can take a relaxing walk along the lakeshore and try out the quirky cafés, or just sit back and admire the mountain views. While you’re here, spend a day among the cliffs, peaks and waterfalls of pretty Milford Sound, and look out for dolphins, seals and penguins.

Grab your hiking boots and set off on a relaxed hike along the Waiho River bed, following the path of the Franz Josef Glacier as it carves its way through the forest. Learn all about the glacier’s formation and the Maori legends surrounding its origins. As you get closer to the ice, you’ll have a great view of the twisted blue formations of the frozen terminal face. After your walk, you might like to relax your tired feet in the nearby natural hot pools.

Take the scenic route from Greymouth to Christchurch on the TranzAlpine train, crossing deep gorges, gushing rivers, snow-capped mountains and thick forest along the way. On arrival into pretty Christchurch, take some time to explore the city’s green spaces and gardens, and perhaps hire a bike or take a punting trip on the River Avon. For something a bit different, don your gloves and scarf and head to the International Antarctic Centre, where you can learn more about the harsh conditions on this icy continent.

Drive on to Kaikoura, whose nutrient rich waters attract a wide variety of marine wildlife. Look out for whales, dolphins, seals, albatross and shearwaters and if you’re lucky, a penguin or two. Later, set sail on the calm waters around the town and search for the inquisitive dusky dolphin. Once you’ve found the pod, choose to dive in and swim alongside these amazing creatures or just watch in awe from the boat.

Take in the pretty vineyards of Blenheim, the largest town in the famous Marlborough wine-growing region. Here you can taste your way around the many world-class wineries, sampling the excellent Sauvignon and Pinot Noir. It’s not just about the wine though, as there are museums and art galleries to amuse you too, as well as hiking trails in the pretty Wither Hills. Be sure to try one of the many gourmet restaurants while you’re here, with wines to match of course.