South Island Tour

[ Google Review ] Fantastic place to visit on the other side of Lake Tekapo town, especially as the weather is getting closer and after a day of hiking. The pools are well maintained and managed. With beautiful landscaping. Worth the visit! They have 3 pools starting from 37 degrees and the hottest pool at 39/40 is only for adults. You can pay extra to use the sauna. The toilets are spacious and come with hot showers and a swimsuit spinner so you don’t have to go back in the cold with wet stuff. They also do ice skating in the winter season, mini golf and a star gazing package. There is also a cafe but I didn’t try the food.

[ Google Review ] There is no ticket when I came at 08.30 am. However, since it is iconic spot at Lake Tekapo, so there are many people, crowded place. Parking is easy, just near the church. You can take bookmark at the church as the souvenir and it is free

[ Google Review ] A nice hike in Lake Tekapo area. Fun to have a cafe and observatory at the top. Not really scenic until you near the top, and not much variety of terrain

[ Google Review ] Can take the boat moving around this lake, tour guides give interesting introduction, see a beautiful view and understand the glacier more.

[ Google Review ] A great but wet and windy experience…and grateful to have had the opportunity to learn more about the mighty Tasman glacier and see it up close from the lake. Initially our trip was postponed due to poor weather conditions. Fortunately we had some flexibility with our travel plans and were able to go 2 days later. The tour began with a 10 min bus ride to the Tasman lake during which a guide gave a briefing session and some of the highlights of the national park. This was followed by a short 20 min walk to the lake which may prove to be challenging for the very young, elderly or mobility challenged participants. Once we arrived at the shoreline we were provided with safety instructions and then divided into smaller groups of 8. Our guide and boat driver Kate provided great insight about the shrinking Tasman glacier as she skilfully navigated the boat around the lake in what was very windy conditions. Even though we brought our wet weather gear we still got wet/ for those considering going on the glacier boat ride do pack in full wet weather gear if you don’t want to get cold and wet. Due to the time of the year the lake was a chalky white from all the churning rock flour. I hoped we might see the ice calving but sadly it was not to be. But we did see a few icebergs of various sizes scattered across the lake. Overall it was a good experience.

[ Google Review ] Challenging or easy walks/hikes from the visitor centre. A must visit if you enjoy hiking and fantastic scenery

[ Google Review ] Lovely walk, not too strenuous. Take your time. There's a toilet just under half way to the final stop. Lots of beautiful views along the way. Can get very sunny with limited shaded areas so if you're bringing kids / older people prepare for that with adequate gear.

[ Google Review ] Challenging or easy walks/hikes from the visitor centre. A must visit if you enjoy hiking and fantastic scenery

[ Google Review ] The location is spectacular and the accommodations are excellent. But the real treasure at this place was the amazing team led by Julia. She was extremely helpful and we could not have been more impressed with her care.

[ Google Review ] Amazing lake! With a stunning mountain view. Super nice spot for camping and hiking around. We highly recommend 🌈✨🫶

[ Google Review ] Amazing lavender field located on the road to Mt. Cook. This place is so good to have a small rest and relax. You can enter this place by paying a small fee of $5. There are a lot of lavender products available to purchase at the office. Also, there is a ice cream truck which sells a many flavoured ice cream including lavender. Inside the field you can sit and relax on the chairs placed between the plants. Also, there are a few bikes you can ride between the lavenders. The place has a great view too.

[ Google Review ] Mind-blowing view of both lake pukaki and Mt cook from this viewpoint. A must visit spot. There is a viewpoint area from where you can see the summit of Mt cook straight from that place along with the still blue water. Blue water here is like you have never seen before. There is also a nice salmon shop, just in case.

[ Google Review ] A very popular salmon shop near Twizel. You will probably get all the the info on their website or other reviewers. However, in my opinion the salmon sashimi is nicer here than at the Mt Cook Alpine Salmon and the cafe variety is extensive. Highly recommended for a stop over for a meal but you can also stock up for eating and cooking later on as they provide ice packs to keep the food fresh.

[ Google Review ] Very scenic lookout from up the top, the road that crosses the dam. Stopped for a couple of photos and the gorgeous view.

[ Google Review ] We were on a long road trip back to Christchurch and it was such a nice stop for snacks, coffee, toilet break and a gift shop run! Highly recommended stop. We had the cheese bread roll which looked so simple but tasted so perfect.

[ Google Review ] Such a beautiful spot to take kids for a walk and a play. I loved the gift shop! Kids loved the awesome playground and we met the beautiful owner for so that was pretty special too

[ Google Review ] It was an absolute highlight. The food tasted exceptionally good. The vegetables came straight from their own garden. The children's menus were fantastic. Everything was prepared in a healthy way. Gratulations to the chef 👍

[ Google Review ] We enjoyed our visit to the HQ, very interesting, there are lots to see, some are interactive. We spent over 2 hours there so we got our money's worth. Hubby spotted an old metal working machine from Otley Yorkshire 😁

[ Google Review ] Crowded, but free and pretty interesting to see. The spherical rocks seem to be lower in the sand than some older pictures. You can see one coming out of the hillside. It's a short walk and the beach sand is firm to walk on.

[ Google Review ] We had the most amazing time on our Monarch Wildlife Cruise. Captain Nigel with the assistance of his crew pointed out so many different birds and other animals, sharing information and providing excellent commentary - it was like cruising with David Attenborough! We saw multiple species of albatross, giant petrel, terns, gulls, sea lions, and even some dolphins. Binoculars were provided for excellent sighting opportunities. Just a wonderful hour on the water.

[ Google Review ] Awesome wild beauty.

[ Google Review ] While at Port Chalmers, we opted for a shuttle to venture into Dunedin. Along the way, the Dunedin Railways Station immediately captured our attention, standing out as we passed by en route to the Octagon. Despite its modest size, the architectural splendor of this building is truly remarkable. The exterior is adorned with a vibrant garden that harmoniously complements its design, creating a picturesque setting. Upon entering, we were further impressed by the grandeur of the main interior. The wheelchair-accessible main entrance facilitated our initial exploration, yet we encountered a limitation at the double-leaf back door, which was only partially opened toward the railway. This restriction hindered our ability to fully circumnavigate the station and appreciate the view of the railway from the rear. We managed to find our way to see the railway by passing through the side entrance.

[ Google Review ] A best place to get refreshed with natural air, chirping of birds. It's near a new world, so you can plan a walk along with groceries too. A variety of parrots are chirping there and provide an amazing colorful view of different parrots. Roses are at their best. You can plant to have a date with your loved one at this place too, having the smell of natural roses. Overall, this place is also good for reading novels, or other books by sitting in the lap of nature. I am sure, you will love it.

[ Google Review ] Love the catlins river walk peaceful a one or two day walk rained while walking through there sturdy boots a must

[ Google Review ] An amazingly busy cafe right in the middle of nowhere. Whilst the food is not the greatest you’ll have it was still tasty. It has a small but very good wine list but could do with more beer options. But its best feature is its location. An idyllic wee cafe nestled in farmland off the beaten track.

[ Google Review ] Flew over to Stewart Island which gave us a good view. Lovely bush walks and a relaxed atmosphere. Good cafes and nice meals at the pub. Did the RealNZ tour and one to Ulva Island which were both good.

[ Google Review ] Nicely positioned in the middle facing town. A good walk around. A nice place for sunset and a good option to take a break if you’re heading to Milford sound. Which I am sure you are if you’re reading this! Enjoy 💙🖤

[ Google Review ] Glow worms were interesting though enjoyed the journey through the cave and the fantastic scenery around the location so much more

[ Google Review ] A great stopover on the way to Milford. We passed this place early in the morning and managed to catch a glimpse of sunrise and the beautiful sky.

[ Google Review ] A beautiful place to visit. If you can come to it on your own or outside the times that “all the tour busses arrive”, you are more likely to have the peace and quiet to take in the scenery.

[ Google Review ] Alpine Fiordland National Park at its most intense

[ Google Review ] I loved this was a smaller boat. Knowledgeable driver and just an amazing experience. They pulled right up and pointed out the sea lions and penguins as well as getting right under the waterfall. Plenty of seats inside and enough outside. Tea and coffee provided.

[ Google Review ] Beautiful scenery but is very windy. Drive to site on coach bus also has beautiful scenery but is very long and leaves very early in the morning

[ Google Review ] I loved this was a smaller boat. Knowledgeable driver and just an amazing experience. They pulled right up and pointed out the sea lions and penguins as well as getting right under the waterfall. Plenty of seats inside and enough outside. Tea and coffee provided.

[ Google Review ] Lots of shops for eating, clothes, art, supermarket, furniture etc. very close to many accommodations and only minutes from the airport. Views are just amazing from just about anywhere here, and we met the resident cat mentioned in a few other reviews. Worthwhile place to check out.

[ Google Review ] Definitely recommend the beef burger from here, the taste was slightly charred with juicy smoky flavour. Was not a fan of their chicken burger, did not have enough flavour to make it amazing. The onion rings are 10/10, would definite recommend getting it, it comes with a full tub of sauce too! We got here around 8pm and had to wait around for 30mins to order and 15-20mins wait for the food, food definitely tasted better when you are hungry.

[ Google Review ] Very popular trip across the lake. A great experience and a lovely day out. So cool to watch the stoker load coal into boilers. We did the farm visit which was really enjoyable. Five stars for great service commentary and views. Local tip sit on the starboard side near the boiler room for heated seats. Great day out.

[ Google Review ] Fantastic afternoon and loved the boat ride across Lake on the old steam boat. Coffee, drinks and snacks available on board. We did the bbq lunch and wow what an amazing spread of food. All delicious. Desserts yummy. We opted to walk around gardens after lunch and take in the beauty of the surrounding lake and mountains rather than do farm tour. Wouks definitely do this again.

[ Google Review ] Undefeated the number 1 in the world

[ Google Review ] Still to cold to swim but seeing a few jet skis and boats out and about. Quite a few fishers trying their luck

[ Google Review ] A highlight of the town and a nice place for walking around. I appreciated that there were so many nice public toilets, especially in the part that touches the town. It just means that anyone can really spend a long time at the lake and chill there.

[ Google Review ] I’m glad we made the one hour + drive from Wanaka to here, the trekking is easy and suitable for all ages. But to actually reach the Blue Pools spot you have to cross a river due to the bridge is already closed down. The water we crossed was around 1 to 2 feet at max. Personally I think it’s worth it. I even jumped off the bridge into the Blue Pool. Great experience!

[ Google Review ] Great service by Nevada and her team Good food with flexibility of options A buzzing atmosphere All of this would explain why The Hard Antler was fully packed on the 2 evenings we visited. We asked if we could have only the jalapeño poppers not the fries. It wasn’t a problem! The poppers were served hot and were delicious! The vegetarian pasta was delicious too and had plenty of veggies. The vegetarian burger was nice and sumptuous. We shared the dessert - cheesecake - which was a good finish to a satisfying meal. The place stands out for its friendly service. I would certainly eat here when in Haast next.

[ Google Review ] Title: Majestic Natural Wonder - A Must-Visit! There are few places on Earth that can truly leave you speechless with their raw beauty, and Franz Josef Glacier is unquestionably one of these rarities. As a nature enthusiast, I've trekked across numerous landscapes, but the experience here was otherworldly. From the very beginning, the facilities at the site were outstanding. Clear signage, well-maintained paths, and knowledgeable staff set the tone for an unforgettable journey. The guided glacier walk is a must - it might seem a splurge, but it's worth every penny. The guides were seasoned experts who not only ensured our safety but also immersed us in the glacial history and geology with fascinating tales and facts that made the ice come alive. Despite some challenging paths, the trek was accessible for a variety of fitness levels, which was impressive and inclusive. And oh, the views — nothing short of spectacular! Towering ice formations, deep crevasses, and the dynamic shades of blue are a testament to nature's artistry. The sheer magnitude of the glacier puts into perspective how small we are in the universe's grand scale. What's remarkable is how the experience can fluctuate with the weather. Drizzles of rain made the ice glisten, while pockets of sunlight cast dramatic shadows and illuminated the glacier's ethereal glow. It's this dynamic environment that makes every visit unique. Make sure to carry layers and waterproof gear, as the weather here is as changeable as it is dramatic. The commitment to preserving the environment was evident at every turn, and it's heartening to see conservation efforts in action. The delicate balance between tourism and environmental impact is well-managed here, and it’s something other attractions could emulate. It's not just about the glacier - the nearby towns of Franz Josef and Fox Glacier provide cozy accommodations, delightful eateries, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. After a day of adventure, nothing beats the local hospitality and a hearty meal to reflect on the day's journey. I often find myself lost in thought, reminiscing about the serene and humbling beauty of Franz Josef Glacier. To those wondering whether to add this destination to their bucket list — do it. The memories will cling to you as steadfastly as the ancient ice that clings to the mountainsides. In summary, Franz Josef Glacier is a testament to nature's grandeur, offering an adventure that's as educative as it is thrilling. I left with a profound respect for our planet and a treasure trove of memories. For those seeking the sublime in nature, this place is a pilgrimage.

[ Google Review ] The walk around this lake is the perfect place to clear your mind. It's a straightforward walk without any difficulties and a well maintained walkway. The lake is beautifully situated overlooking Fox Glacier and has some of the best views on its surroundings. At the entrance of the walk you're able to sit and enjoy a coffee.

[ Google Review ] What a great day! There was so much to see and read and learn about the human stories behind so much of the early days in the area. It was fascinating. Steam train was great and the 'conductor' on board had 2 young lads attention captured with what he told them about the train. The most fascinating place for us was the rock and mineral building. Awesome fossil displays and amazing rocks. We spent ages in there. What a lot of hard work and time has gone into it. Thoroughly recommend a visit to it but allow yourselves time to read at least some of the boards of information as it certainly adds to the experience.

[ Google Review ] Super cool. Bring a torch to make it to the back parts of the cave. A little wet toward the back so hiking boots or something you don’t mind getting muddy. Glow works when it gets darker. Make sure you shine your light on your feet and not on the roof so as not to make the glow worms hide.

[ Google Review ] I can't speak highly enough about my experience at underworld adventures! They had an incredibly knowledgeable staff, just bursting with fun and interesting fact every kind about everything from the history of the area, to the geological features, the fauna, the Flora, as well as pop culture references like movies that have been filmed in the area and bands that have played nearby. I felt very safe for my whole tour, but not too boxed in by rules and regulations. We were able to explore at our own pace, and take as many photos as we like. The journey also involved two different trains and a short hike through a rainforest, all of which were a delight. The moving wood platform bridge was a bonus for me but might make the wrong person a little bit motion sick if they're moving too quickly. The small cafe back at the base was well served, with lots of tasty hot food to put the life back into your bones. Staff there was also extremely friendly and attentive, and I even had the opportunity to swap some fun photographs with a few of the employees and heard some very interesting stories that they were kind enough to share. One of the things that tickled me the most about this excursion was that everyone who worked here seemed to be legitimately excited about sharing these caves and all of the wonders inside of them. Nothing seemed like a boring script that was repeated ad nauseam, nobody seemed to be disengaged or bored with their position. High levels of excitement and professionalism really added to my experience, and they will add to yours! Give under World Adventures your money and your trust, they won't let you down!

[ Google Review ] Love this place its a nice walk along the old gold trail including the tunnels. Has a lot of the old mining equipment as well. Honestly for the $10 per adult it's better than Shanty town which was $90 + to get in.

[ Google Review ] Absolutely stunning scenery! And that's it! Is it too much to ask of your hosts to be hospitable? I travelled on the Northern Explorer on the 6th April and the staff were amazing ( friendly and responsive to the needs of passengers). We stopped for an overnight stay in Arthur's Pass which is naturally beautiful with so much potential but sadly the station itself and village were disappointing. Our hosts at Arthur's Pass Alpine Motel though, were very welcoming and helpful and the accommodation was more than comfortable. The walks were beautiful.

[ Google Review ] Food not as great as other reviewer comments. Smoky salmon is ok, you can tell it’s very fresh, but the smoky tastes not obvious. Salmon chowder is nice, but they changed the bread to very small pieces… normal toasty $12, but not too many filling choices. And you need pay extra $4 for smoked salmon which is ok, but only two slices salmon… it’s not worth going just for the food. If you drop by can have a try, but don’t expect too much.

[ Google Review ] Have been here 3x now and it never disappoints. The water was dark brown from the leaf tannins on our previous visits but today it was a very light orange. A lot of work has been done on the track which has opened up the view to the river and also takes you up higher to the arch which really gives you a better idea of how large it is. The Moira gate track is closer to the entrance to the carpark and it is just a beautiful experience, we actually found a side cave in there which added some new spots to photograph.

[ Google Review ] Amazing cave, you can explore quite away into the cave. There is a slightly tricky mound to navigate over. Wear good shoes and have good head torches. We saw about 5 cave spiders and a cave weta. Highly recommended even if you only go in a short distance. Not to far from carpark on an easy track. We did find some litter wedged into a crack which was disappointing but otherwise it’s untouched. I would recommend a guided tour to get the best experience

[ Google Review ] Awesome guided tour with very knowledgeable guide. Authorised access only due to sensitive nature and historical relevance of the caves. Amazing to consider we were looking at 10,000 yr old moa skeletons and bones..

[ Google Review ] Superb seal colony that stretches around the coast. There is an abundance of seals in the vast area. At some parts, you can watch them play in the pools or laze in the sun from afar. There are two places you can get very close to them, but be mindful mothers are very protective of their babies that wander. You need decent shoes to do this vast area. It also can get a little windy in places. Besides the abundance of seals and birds it is a beautiful walk along this coast.

[ Google Review ] Farewell Spit is rare and a natural feeding ground for a huge range of inhabitants and visitors. Learning about all of this with Farewell Spit Eco Tours was well worth the money. 6.5 hours being driven to places you cannot get to without them. Charles our driver was a wealth of information and entertaining to boot. He made the trip even more fun with his extra anecdotes and stories. NZ is an amazing country rich in natural beauty and wildlife. Being able to visit these places is truly a priviledge. Thanks Charles and the Team.