New Zealand South Island

The South Island of New Zealand is a spectacular showcase of natural beauty and refined adventure, where snow-capped mountains, turquoise lakes, dramatic fjords, and world-class wine regions create one of the most breathtaking destinations on earth.

Stay

From family-run inns to world-renowned luxury resorts, find a welcoming home away from home.

The Marlborough

The Marlborough Hotel is a charming luxury country retreat set in the heart of New Zealand’s Marlborough wine region, offering elegant accommodations, tranquil gardens, and easy access to some of the country’s best vineyards.

The Lodge at Blanket Bay

The Lodge at Blanket Bay is an ultra-luxury alpine retreat on the shores of Lake Wakatipu, offering dramatic mountain views, refined rustic elegance, and a secluded, five-star escape near Queenstown.

Eichardts Hotel

Eichardt’s Hotel is a legendary five-star lakeside property in Queenstown, known for its historic charm, elegant suites, and prime waterfront location overlooking Lake Wakatipu.

Matakauri Lodge

An intimate luxury retreat near Queenstown, offering breathtaking views of Lake Wakatipu and the Remarkables, with refined design and a serene, world-class hospitality experience.

Eat

Dining out is an essential part of any travel experience. Explore our favorite restaurants.

Botswana Butchery

A standout culinary experience, known for its premium steaks, elegant atmosphere, and prime waterfront setting in the heart of Queenstown.

Madam Woo

A vibrant, modern take on Southeast Asian street food, with bold flavors and a lively atmosphere right in the heart of Queenstown.

The Dining Room at Rosewood Matakauri

An elevated fine-dining experience, showcasing seasonal New Zealand ingredients paired with breathtaking lake and mountain views.

Drink

Explore our favorite wineries.

Cloudy Bay Vineyards

A world-famous Marlborough winery that helped put New Zealand wine on the global map with its celebrated Sauvignon Blanc and offers exceptional tastings and cellar-door experiences in a beautiful vineyard setting.

Rippon Vineyard

One of the most beautiful vineyards in the world, producing elite Pinot Noir with breathtaking lake and mountain views.

Mt Difficulty

A flagship Central Otago producer, known for world-class Pinot Noir and one of the best winery dining experiences in the country.

What to do

Immerse yourself in local activities — including world-class golf courses, beaches, spas, parks, and more.

Fly Fishing on Lake Wakatipu

Fly fishing or boating on Lake Wakatipu offers a serene way to experience Queenstown’s natural beauty, with crystal-clear waters, dramatic mountain backdrops, and world-class trout fishing.

Milford Sound

Visiting Milford Sound is a breathtaking journey into one of New Zealand’s most iconic natural wonders, where towering fjords, cascading waterfalls, and mist-covered peaks create an unforgettable, cinematic landscape.

Helicopter to Glacier

Helicoptering to a glacier in New Zealand’s South Island is an unforgettable adventure, offering soaring alpine views before landing on pristine ice fields for a once-in-a-lifetime, otherworldly experience.

Explore Queenstown

Immerse yourself in a breathtaking alpine playground of crystal-clear lakes, dramatic mountains, world-class adventure sports, luxury lodges, and vibrant dining and wine experiences.

Culture

Discover local art museums, theaters, landmarks, festivals, and more.

Canterbury Museum (Christchurch)

A major cultural institution with strong exhibits on Antarctic exploration, Māori heritage, and New Zealand’s natural history.

Christchurch Art Gallery Te Puna o Waiwhetū

A striking contemporary art museum with one of New Zealand’s best public art collections.

Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre (Blenheim)

One of the most spectacular aviation museums in the world, famous for its cinematic, immersive WWI and WWII aircraft displays curated by Sir Peter Jackson.