The 15 Best Tours & Experiences In South Island

South Island of New Zealand is known for its dramatic landscapes, pristine waters, and rugged mountains—perfect settings for memorable tours and experiences. Whether you’re into high-adrenaline adventures like helicopter glacier flights or prefer relaxing wine tastings, South Island offers something uniquely suited to every traveler. We especially love the Waiatoto River Safari for its family-friendly adventure through rainforests and remote rivers, and the Gibbston Valley Wines cave tour for a taste of New Zealand’s renowned Pinot Noir. With so many options, this guide will help you navigate the best experiences, ensuring you get the most out of your trip.

Quick Overview

Our list covers a variety of tours and experiences including river safaris, electric bike rentals, scenic flights, heli-glacier tours, ATV adventures, and wine tastings. For a quick taste, check out the Waiatoto River Safari for family fun, or explore the Arrowtown Electric Bike Hire to explore at your own pace. Want a more adrenaline-pumping experience? The Hokitika Fly SIX Glaciers Heli Tour offers breathtaking views of glaciers, while the Full-Day Alpine Heliski Adventure is perfect for serious skiers.

1. Waiatoto River Safari

At number 1, the Waiatoto River Safari combines wildlife, rainforests, and remote river scenery into a 2-hour adventure that’s suitable for most ages. This tour takes you aboard a jet boat into the UNESCO South Westland World Heritage Area, reaching places inaccessible by foot or car. Life jackets, warm clothing, and boots are provided, which makes it easy to focus on the thrill and beauty. Coffee, tea, and snacks are included to keep you energized after a splash through rapids and calm waters.

This tour shines because it offers family-friendly fun with a mix of adventure and education. People rave about the knowledgeable guide Ruth, who shares her love for the region’s plant life, history, and wildlife. The feeling of cruising past untouched rainforests and the Tasman Sea’s mouth creates a sense of connection to the raw New Zealand wilderness. Priced at $173.14 per person, it’s a worthwhile splurge for an authentic, small-group experience.

Bottom Line: An exhilarating, accessible tour that combines scenery, wildlife, and storytelling—perfect for families or anyone wanting to see the West Coast’s hidden corners.

2. Arrowtown Electric Bike Hire

Number 2 on our list is the Arrowtown Electric Bike Hire. For $83.78, you get a high-quality e-bike, helmet, and trail map to explore this historic gold rush town and surrounding countryside. Whether you want a quick spin around the town or want to tackle longer trails, the e-bikes make hill climbs effortless. Riders of all fitness levels will find this option approachable, especially with local tips from staff.

Guests consistently praise the friendly, helpful staff and the ease of following the well-marked trails, like the Arrow River Bridges Trail. The bikes are perfect for a leisure ride or a longer exploration, taking in sights like old mining sites and lush river valleys. The tour’s flexibility makes it ideal for families, couples, or solo travelers wanting to set their own pace.

Bottom Line: A practical, fun way to see Arrowtown and its beautiful surroundings with minimal effort, offering excellent value and local insight.

3. Half-Day Self-Guided Ride and Wine Bike Tour from Arrowtown

This self-guided bike and wine tour offers an easy way to combine physical activity with local flavors. For just $25, you get equipment, a route map, and a plan to explore the region at your own pace. The ride covers scenic stops including rivers, suspension bridges, and mountains, ending at a renowned winery for tastings.

Guests mention how relaxing and scenic the ride is, with some stopping at picturesque spots for photos. The included wine tasting makes this a leisurely, enjoyable experience perfect for independent travelers or couples. The flexibility to customize your itinerary and take your time is a major plus, especially since the route allows for multiple stops and cultural insights.

Bottom Line: A relaxed half-day trip combining cycling and wine, great for those who want to set their own pace and enjoy local vintages.

4. Hokitika Fly SIX Glaciers Heli Tour

Number 4 is the Hokitika Fly SIX Glaciers Heli Tour, a 45-minute to 1-hour flight that whisks you over six glaciers in New Zealand’s Southern Alps. Departing from Hokitika, this tour offers the advantage of avoiding busy Franz Josef or Fox Glacier departures. The flight includes snow landings on top of Mt. Beaumont and views of Wilkinson, Ramsay, Dainty, Lonty, and Leeb Glaciers.

The personal touch of a small-group flight and the pilot’s commentary enrich the experience. Reviews highlight the “unbelievable views” and the chance to see wild alpine animals like Himalayan Tahr. The tour is perfect for those wanting a personalized, scenic helicopter flight that captures the scale and beauty of glaciers without the crowds.

Bottom Line: An unforgettable way to see multiple glaciers from the air, suitable for special occasions or serious mountain lovers.

5. Private Self Drive Xtreme 30 and X Track Activity

If you’re after a pure adrenaline shot, the Private Self Drive Xtreme experience is where you want to be. This 30-minute ATV adventure at Kingston lets you drive powerful ATVs on rugged tracks, surrounded by stunning mountain scenery. The experience is private, making it ideal for families or groups seeking exclusivity. You’ll start from a central point and drive yourself, guided by safety instructions.

The tour is praised for its flexibility and beautiful landscapes, with riders loving the thrill of speed and the control over their own adventure. It’s a no-fuss, fun activity that appeals to thrill seekers with a taste for rugged terrain. For $173, you get a half-hour of pure fun, making it a good value for a high-octane experience.

Bottom Line: Perfect for those who want to drive their own ATV through scenic landscapes, with a focus on adrenaline and control.

6. Arrowtown Mountain Bike Hire

Number 6 offers the Arrowtown Mountain Bike Hire—a flexible rental service that lets you explore the area for 1 to 8 hours. For $52.75, you get a mountain bike, helmet, trail map, and friendly advice. This is a great way for families or solo travelers to see Arrowtown’s trails at their own pace.

Many reviewers love how easy and enjoyable it is to explore the Arrow River Bridges Trail, with the scenery offering a mix of historic sites and lush nature. The bikes are well-maintained, and staff are knowledgeable about the best routes. It’s an affordable, independent activity that allows you to customize your adventure.

Bottom Line: An excellent way to explore Arrowtown and its surroundings at your own pace, with the flexibility to tailor your ride.

7. Takaka: Farewell Spit/Abel Tasman Scenic Flight

Number 7 features a scenic flight from Takaka that covers the highlights of Golden Bay in just 50 minutes. The flight offers spectacular views of Wharariki Beach’s sea arches, Farewell Spit, and the golden sands of Abel Tasman National Park.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a quick, immersive overview of North West Nelson’s stunning coastline. The pilot’s commentary enhances the experience, pointing out key landmarks and ecosystems. It’s a fantastic way to appreciate the landscape from above without the hassle of a full day’s commitment.

Bottom Line: A short, scenic flight showcasing some of New Zealand’s most iconic coastal scenery—perfect for a quick highlight reel.

8. Gibbston Valley Wines – Cave Tour

Number 8 is the Gibbston Valley Wines Cave Tour, where for about 30 minutes you explore New Zealand’s largest wine cave. It includes tastings of three local wines and insights into the region’s Pinot Noir production. The tour takes you underground to see the historic cellar built in 1983 by pioneering winemakers.

Reviews praise the informative guides and the chance to taste different vintages in a cool, atmospheric setting. The cave’s consistent 14°C climate makes it ideal for wine storage and tasting, and the tour offers excellent value at just $17.38 per person.

Bottom Line: A must-do for wine lovers who want to see where some of New Zealand’s best Pinot Noir is made and taste local wines in an authentic setting.

9. E-Bike Hire with Return Shuttle from Queenstown Accommodation

This e-bike experience offers a top-of-the-line French-made bike paired with a shuttle that picks you up from your Queenstown accommodation. For $120.56, you can explore Otago’s scenery at your own pace for 1 to 8 hours, with expert staff helping you find the best trail.

Reviews highlight how convenient and enjoyable it is, especially with the shuttle service that saves time and effort. You can combine biking with wine tasting or just enjoy spectacular mountain views. It suits active travelers who want flexibility and quality gear.

Bottom Line: A seamless way to explore Otago’s scenery and vineyards using high-quality e-bikes with the convenience of a shuttle service.

10. Queenstown Sightseeing Tour: Highlights of Queenstown

Number 10 is the Queenstown Highlights Tour, a 3-hour tour taking in Arrowtown, Kawarau Bridge, and Gibbston Valley Winery. It includes personalized transfers and stops at iconic locations like the bungy jumping spot and historic Chinese settlement.

Reviewers appreciate the knowledgeable guides and small-group setting that allows for questions and relaxed exploration. The tour offers a well-rounded look at Queenstown’s scenery, history, and wine scene for $104.88 per person.

Bottom Line: An efficient, information-rich tour that covers Queenstown’s essential sights along with a chance to taste local wines.

11. Bike Hire with Return Transport from Accommodation

Number 11 combines bike rental and transportation, making it easy to explore Queenstown’s trails without logistical worries. For $114.81, you get a full day of biking on scenic trails, with pickup and drop-off included.

Travelers say this is a hassle-free way to see the region independently, with options to customize routes and durations. It’s ideal for active travelers who want to spend the day exploring at their own pace.

Bottom Line: An excellent, flexible way to discover Queenstown’s trails while avoiding transportation headaches.

12. Dunedin Private Tour: City Sights & Otago Peninsula

Number 12 is a private tour of Dunedin, including Baldwin Street, Signal Hill, and Otago Peninsula. With up to 9 people for $1,117.03, the tour is highly customizable and offers a personal experience. Highlights include the world’s steepest street, stunning city views, historic buildings, and wildlife encounters.

Reviewers note the knowledgeable guides and tailored itinerary that makes the most of your interests. It’s best suited for travelers seeking a comprehensive, private exploration of this charming city and its wildlife.

Bottom Line: An intimate, flexible way to see Dunedin, with personalized attention and tailored stops.

13. Full-Day Alpine Heliski Adventure

Serious skiers will love the Full-Day Alpine Heliski Adventure, which offers two scenic helicopter rides and access to pristine backcountry powder. For $966.92, you get a full day of guided skiing, gourmet mountain lunch, and stress-free hotel transfers.

Guests praise the “super-expensive views” and the chance to carve untracked snow in a controlled environment. The tour is best suited for experienced skiers looking for an elite, all-day backcountry experience.

Bottom Line: High-priced but unforgettable, ideal for powder hounds seeking remote terrain and expert guidance.

14. Kinross Winery: Premium Central Otago Wine Tasting Experience

At number 14, the Kinross Winery Premium Tasting offers a 45-minute deep dive into some of Central Otago’s finest wines, including Hawkshead and Valli. Priced at $45.93, it’s perfect for wine aficionados wanting expert insights into the region’s top vintages.

The guide shares stories behind legendary producers, making each tasting educational and memorable. It’s a fantastic way to spend an intimate half-hour immersed in Otago’s wine culture.

Bottom Line: An insider’s look at top Otago wines, ideal for serious wine lovers seeking a premium tasting.

15. Kinross Winery: Classic Central Otago Wine Tasting Experience

Lastly, the Kinross Classic Tasting offers a 45-minute experience sampling wines from their own lineup plus local partners. For just $15.51, it provides a relaxed, friendly introduction to the world of Central Otago wines.

Guests enjoy the personable staff and the chance to learn about wine pairing and regional specialties. This is a great option for those new to wine tasting or on a budget.

Bottom Line: A friendly, affordable intro to Central Otago wines, perfect for casual wine enthusiasts.

How to Choose the Right Tour

When deciding which experience to book, consider your interests, fitness level, and time constraints. If you want a family adventure, the Waiatoto River Safari offers a safe, scenic thrill. For those keen on cycling, Arrowtown’s electric bikes or mountain bikes provide flexibility and fun. Wine lovers shouldn’t miss the Gibbston Valley Wines cave tour, while adventure seekers with a need for speed might opt for the ATV or heli-glacier options. Budget-aware travelers will find excellent value in tours like the wine tastings, whereas those seeking exclusivity can opt for private guided experiences.

Booking early, especially for popular activities like heli-glacier flights and heliski adventures, ensures a spot and often better rates. Think about your travel style—active, relaxed, or luxurious—and pick experiences that match your energy and interests.

Final Thoughts

South Island offers a remarkable array of tours and experiences that showcase its stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and adventurous spirit. From the thrill of jet boat safaris to the serenity of wine tastings, there’s something for every traveler. For families, the Waiatoto River Safari and bike rentals are perfect. Adventure lovers will find excitement in heli-tours and ATV rides, while wine enthusiasts can indulge in local tastings. No matter your preference, booking early and choosing options aligned with your interests will ensure a memorable trip.

Don’t wait too long—these experiences are popular and fill up quickly during peak seasons. With so many excellent choices, you’re bound to find the perfect way to experience South Island’s natural beauty and lively culture.