The South Island

Explore the shops, galleries and theater of the Arts Center. Check out the Canterbury Museum for a great perspective on Maori and pioneer history, and the world's best collection of artifacts from early Antarctic exploration.

Climb the steep steps up to the bell tower balcony of Christchurch Cathedral for marvelous views of the city and distant mountains. Atop lovely Cashmere Hill sits "The Sign of the Takahe," an excellent place to have tea and soak up the city views. Learn to windsurf in the shallow waters of the estuary or rent a bicycle and see the sites as the locals do.

If you decide to travel to New Zealand in the winter, take advantage of great skiing at Mt. Hutt, about two hours from Christchurch.

The clear waters of the Sound may be explored on an informative cruise that explores the greenshell mussels farmed in this area, among other sites. Take in the natural beauty of this tranquil environment and learn about the history of Marlborough Sound and the pioneering families who settled here. While on ship, sample the fresh mussels for which this region is renown, perhaps complemented with a chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc.

Kaikoura is the best place in New Zealand for whale watching. Sightings of orca and huge sperm whales are common December to May. Other common sightings include dolphins, penguins and albatross. Feast on delicious fresh lobster-this area is famous for them. Kaikoura may be visited as a day trip from Christchurch or as a destination in its own right on your New Zealand tour.

The Maori and Colonial Museum is worth a look, as is the Akaroa Museum. Take a harbor cruise to spot pods of dolphins, or perhaps try getting up close in a sea kayak for an unforgettable New Zealand vacation experience.

If conditions allow, paddle out to the seal colony on Tonga Island. Stay at gorgeous lodges and homesteads along the way. Delicious cuisine and friendly locals round out this classic adventure, high on our list of great things to do in New Zealand.

Great hiking, biking (guided or on your own) and camping are easily accessed here, as well as world-class mountaineering. A number of fabulous mountain lodges dot the area, including the historic Hermitage, the most famous hotel in New Zealand. A scenic plane ride can take you on an up-close-and-personal tour of the mountain peaks-you'll understand first hand why the Maori call Mt. Cook, "Aeorangi"-the Cloud Piercer.

Or savor more relaxed pursuits such as nature walks, quaint strolls around Lake Wakatipu or window shopping and relaxing at cafés in the city center.

For a nostalgic outing, take a boat ride across Lake Wakatipu aboard the vintage steamer ship, Earnslaw, to the Mount Nicolas Sheep Station. An outing on the America's Cup can also be arranged. Or ride the Skyline Gondola for panoramic views of the entire area. Queenstown offers fabulous skiing, heliskiing and snowboarding at the surrounding Remarkables and Coronet Peak.

The lakeside town of Te Anau is the jumping-off point for boat excursions and hiking in the area. You can also take a punting (pole-driven) boat ride through the magical realm of Te Anau Caves, huge limestone caverns sparkling with glow worms. Note that this area of New Zealand sees a great deal of rainfall annually. Just bring a raincoat, some water-worthy boots and an umbrella and get into it-the myriad waterfalls that suddenly appear are part of the great spectacle. A great way to experience this area is with an overnight cruise on the sounds. See the New Zealand Activities page for our favorite ways to cruise the South Island.