Unleashing Your Inner Adventurer

The Ultimate South Island Road Trip Itinerary

The South Island of New Zealand is a haven for thrill-seekers, offering a wide array of adrenaline-pumping activities. Here’s a breakdown of some of the top adventures you can experience on a road trip:

Adrenaline-Fueled Activities:

• Bungee Jumping:
  • Queenstown is considered the birthplace of commercial bungee jumping, so it’s a must-do. The Kawarau Bridge Bungy is iconic, and the Nevis Bungy offers an extreme freefall.
• Canyoning:
  • Explore deep canyons by rappelling, jumping, and swimming through pristine waterways. This activity combines hiking, climbing, and water sports for an unforgettable experience.
• Heli-Hiking:
  • Take a helicopter ride to remote alpine areas and glaciers, where you can hike through breathtaking landscapes. This provides access to otherwise inaccessible areas, offering stunning views. Popular areas for this include Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, and Franz Josef and Fox glaciers.
• Jet Boating:
  • Experience high-speed thrills as jet boats navigate through narrow river gorges and perform 360-degree spins. The Shotover River in Queenstown is a popular spot.
• Skydiving:
  • Take the plunge and skydive over stunning landscapes, such as Lake Wakatipu in Queenstown or the Southern Alps.
• White Water Rafting:
  • Challenge yourself with white water rafting on the South Island’s powerful rivers. The rivers around Queenstown and the West Coast offer exciting rafting experiences.
• Heli Skiing:
  • For those who love to ski or snowboard, Heli Skiing is an amazing experience. Get dropped off on top of untouched snow covered mountains, and enjoy the ride down.

Other Notable Adventures:

• Hiking:
  • The South Island boasts numerous world-class hiking trails, from the famous Milford Track to the challenging Routeburn Track.
• Kayaking:
  • Explore the stunning fjords of Milford Sound or Doubtful Sound, or paddle through the tranquil waters of Abel Tasman National Park.
• Wildlife Encounters:
  • Go whale watching in Kaikoura, swim with dolphins, or observe seals and penguins in their natural habitats.
• Caving:
  • Explore the glow worm caves of Te Anau. This is a very magical experience.

Road Trip Considerations:

• When planning your road trip, factor in travel time between destinations, as distances can be significant.
• Book activities in advance, especially during peak season.
• Be prepared for varying weather conditions, as the South Island’s climate can change rapidly.