Have you ever found yourself scrolling through Instagram, staring at stunning photos of turquoise lakes and snowy peaks, and wondering, “Could this place really exist?” That’s how I felt before my first South Island tour in New Zealand. Spoiler: the scenery is just as magical in real life, and joining a tour is the perfect way to experience it without missing a single highlight.

I started my journey in Christchurch, a hub for many South Island tours. This vibrant city is the perfect place to ease into the Kiwi way of life. We explored the Botanic Gardens, stopped by the Restart Mall, and admired the clever architecture blending old and new after the earthquakes. Christchurch is also the gateway to the Southern Alps, which made it an easy starting point for our itinerary.

Our first major stop was Lake Tekapo. Honestly, the water here looks too blue to be real. It’s the kind of place where you take dozens of photos and still feel like they don’t do justice to the beauty. Make sure your tour includes a visit to the Church of the Good Shepherd for those picture-perfect views. And if your tour runs in winter, be ready for the clearest night skies you’ll ever see—it’s a stargazer’s paradise.

From there, we moved on to Wanaka, often considered Queenstown’s quieter cousin. Don’t let the smaller crowds fool you—there’s so much to do here. Our tour allowed free time to hike up Roy’s Peak (worth every aching muscle!) and visit the quirky Puzzling World. Of course, the famous Wanaka Tree also made an appearance, standing proudly in its shallow lake waters.

No South Island tour would be complete without a trip to the Fox and Franz Josef Glaciers. Standing atop these icy giants gave me a real appreciation for how diverse New Zealand’s landscapes are. I couldn’t help but marvel at the contrast of lush green valleys just a stone’s throw from frozen tundras. Helicopter tours are an optional add-on for many itineraries, and if you can stretch the budget, the views are once-in-a-lifetime.

South Island tours are often designed for flexibility, which makes them perfect for a range of travellers. Some of my group stuck to leisurely activities, while others like me opted for hikes and more active options. Tours also tend to include friendly guides who share fascinating stories and insider tips—I learned everything from Māori legends to the best local pies.

Planning a south island tour in nz can seem overwhelming at first because there’s so much to see, but choosing a package that takes care of transport, accommodation, and activities allows you to relax and enjoy. Whether you’re an adventurer, photographer, or someone who just loves breathtaking views, these tours offer something special.