Jon Algie 
The glaciers (Fox / Franz Josef) get most of the attention in Glacier Country, a small area of the West Coast famous for…glaciers. As you’d expect I guess! There are a couple of beach areas to explore though, with Ōkārito being the one with the most to do. You can walk around the tiny village, … Read more
Bluff, nestled right at the bottom of the South Island, sits at the end of State Highway 1 (the main road through New Zealand). It’s a tiny port town with the main draw being its proximity to Stewart Island. There are a few fun things to do in Bluff though, including awesome views from Bluff … Read more
You don’t need to climb to the tops of mountains to see amazing views in New Zealand — a hill will often do! Our top 12 hills in the South Island include big hills you can drive over, small ones with incredible views and one very special suburban hill in Dunedin. Also check out our … Read more
If you’re a fan of this blog you might have already seen our Top 12 Cities / Top 12 Towns in the South Island posts. Those contain towns and cities that have multiple places to eat, drink and sleep — places you’re likely to spend a night or two. This post is a little different. … Read more
The southern coastline between Invercargill and Tuatapere is an underrated part of the South Island. Riverton is our favourite spot along that scenic section of road, with its beaches, viewpoints and small-town atmosphere making it a great place to explore. Looking for the best things to do in Riverton? You’re in luck! Riverton Rocks Beach … Read more
The Southern Alps, with its snowy peaks and glistening lakes and rivers, is the star attraction for nature loving visitors to the South Island. Full of hiking trails below, over and around mountains of all shapes and sizes, the Southern Alps has 11 entries on our top 12 mountains in the South Island list, the … Read more
The South Island is better known for its above-ground natural wonders, but head into its shadowy depths and you’ll find plenty of interesting caves to explore. Our top 12 caves in the South Island include sea caves, glow worm caves and heaps more! Wharariki Beach Caves There are a few small caves at Wharariki Beach, … Read more
New Zealand’s South Island is a paradise for people who love getting up close to nature — mountains, rivers, beaches, lakes and waterfalls (and so much more). We’ve been exploring this island for over six years now and have finally whittled down our favourite waterfalls to a top 12. Our list of the top waterfalls … Read more
Opened in 1999, the Otira Viaduct is one of the more interesting pieces of road engineering in the South Island. The Otira Viaduct Lookout takes full advantage of its location with amazing views over the viaduct and the rugged scenery surrounding it. Don’t miss it when driving through Arthur’s Pass! Otira Viaduct Lookout The Otira … Read more
In 2021 a storm destroyed the road out to the further reaches of the Queen Charlotte Track. There are now several lodges along that stretch that can only be reached by boat (or foot), and Lochmara Lodge is one of them. We stayed there for two nights, hoping for a relaxing time amidst the beauty … Read more