Things to do over the New Year's Day long weekend in South Island (Updated 2026)

Akaroa Harbour Nature Cruise
Cruise through the stunning Akaroa Harbour and encounter some of New Zealand’s most unique marine wildlife, including the rare Hector’s dolphin, NZ fur seals, penguins,...
$75

Discover Milford Sound with the experts. For over 70 years, we've shared our passion for the natural wonders of Milford Sound. Our premium catamarans are...
$103

Beyond the Vines is a full-day Marlborough wine tour from Picton or Blenheim with The Original Marlborough Wine Tours. You visit five handpicked wineries over...
$143

Explore all that Lake Mapourika has to offer in this half day guided Kayak & Walk excursion - just minutes away from Franz Josef Glacier!...
$103

Experience an indulgent and diverse full day tour showcasing the very best sights and tastes from the Central Otago region. Let your experienced wine guide...
$194

The Ultimate Lake and Mountain Adventure Wanaka’s boat and 4×4 tour brings you the best of both worlds with views from the lake and land...
$189

Experience the thrill of whale watching from the sky with Wings Over Whales! This unique activity offers unparalleled views of the resident sperm whales, the...
$152

Mainland Peninsula Tour
Enjoy a full-day tour experiencing lovely Dunedin City and the Otago Peninsula. You will see all the city highlights before journeying along the Otago Peninsula,...
$167

Queenstown to Christchurch via Mt Cook, this small group, fully-guided tour combines two of the most stunning locations in the South Island with the time...
$195

Experience Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park in a small group with a knowledgeable local guide, combining spectacular alpine scenery with the flexibility to explore...
$148

This small group, fully-guided day trip combines all of the key highlights in the area with the famous Lake Tekapo, Mt Cook National Park and...
$206

Hot Air Balloon Flights from Methven
Our Pilots will take you up to 9500 ft above the patchwork Canterbury Plains with spectacular Panoramic views west to the Mountains and east to...
$218

Explore Dunedin highlights on a half-day, small-group tour that goes from the city's historic landmarks to the beaches of the Otago Peninsula. You'll see the...
$97

New Zealand's premium guided self-drive buggy experience – you drive, we guide. After a quick training session, follow your guide through steep climbs, creek crossings...
$398

Your Doubtful Sound adventure begins as you cruise the crystal clear waters of Lake Manapouri. Then it's over Wilmot Pass, stopping along the way to...
$220

Wanaka Wine Tours - Boutique Tour
Explore the remarkable vineyards and stunning scenery throughout Central Otago and Wanaka. You will taste gorgeous award winning wines from the little gems that are...
$171

Immerse yourself in the magic of the Lord of the Rings trilogy on this 9-hour adventure to Edoras (Mount Sunday) from Christchurch. Explore with your...
$192

Leave Queenstown behind and head into spectacular Queenstown Hill Station for an unforgettable off-road quad biking adventure. After a comprehensive safety briefing and training session,...
$206

Rediscover the magic of Tolkien’s Middle-earth on a small-group 4WD adventure through Queenstown’s spectacular landscapes. View The Remarkables from Queenstown Hill, featured as the Misty...
$185

Take in the sights, sounds, and smells of New Zealand's most beautiful city while experiencing the thrill and excitement of being on a V8 trike....
$46

