South Island

The South Island is the larger of the two major islands of New Zealand, the other being the more populous North Island. The Māori name for the South Island, Te Wai Pounamu, meaning "The Water/s of Greenstone" (greenstone being jade), possibly evolved from Te Wāhi Pounamu which means "The Place Of Greenstone". The island is also known as Te Waka a Māui which means "Māui's Canoe".The South Island is often called the Mainland (somewhat humorously) because it existed first according to Māori legend, and is larger than the North Island. About a quarter of New Zealand's inhabitants live on the South Island.

The West Coast of the Southern Alps is an adventure and outdoor paradise. With a large range of accommodation options to choose from, there is plenty of time to explore this spectacular region. There are beach & forest walks to suit all ages and abilities, tourism experiences, caving, rafting, canoeing & kayaking, surfing, jetboating, jet skiing, glacier walks, scenic flights, mountain biking, horse treks, fishing, gold panning, to name but a few. Isolated from the rest of New Zealand by the Southern Alps, Coasters have developed a distinctive culture of their own, where the pioneering values of self-reliance and hospitality are as strong now as they were a century ago. The Central South Island is an area of picture postcard beauty together with a past steeped in history. A place where people can enjoy a diverse range of activities all year round, whether your passion is for the outdoors, culture, or simply relaxation, the Central South Island is the destination you are looking for. South Island at a Glance This South Island travel and tourism guide, featuring accommodations, tours, attractions, events, shopping and more, will help you plan a successful visit to the South Island of New Zealand.

Canterbury is the South Island’s most populated region, with most of the population in the city of Christchurch. The second largest city on the South Island is Dunedin, home to the University of Otago—New Zealand’s oldest University. But, in Otago, Dunedin is overshadowed by Queenstown, touted as the Adventure Capital of the World and home to jet boating, bungee jumping, tramping (hiking), mountaineering and many more activities.