New Zealand South Island - The Ultimate Experience of Pure Nature

New Zealand's South Island is world-famous for its magnificent natural scenery. From towering snow-capped mountains to azure blue lakes, from vast grasslands to mysterious fjords, every scene is fascinating. The following is an 8-day, 7-night tour guide for New Zealand's South Island, covering classic attractions such as Queenstown, Milford Sound, Lake Tekapo, and including hotels, restaurants, etc.

Tour Overview
Number of days: 8 days/7 nights
Budget: US $7999 (double)
Best travel time: November to May (summer, pleasant weather)
Transportation: Self-driving (recommended to rent a car to explore the beautiful scenery of South Island)

Inclusive Of

Hotels: 7 nights accommodation (double occupancy) in a lake view hotel and a mountain hotel.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner daily.
Transportation: Car rental fee (including insurance).
Activities: Milford Sound cruise, Mount Cook hike, stargazing, etc.

Itinerary
Day 1:

Arrive in Queenstown
Activities: Arrive in Queenstown, check in to hotel, and adjust to jet lag.
Luxury: Matakauri Lodge
Value for money: Hilton Queenstown Resort & Spa
Dining: Enjoy dinner at a central Queenstown restaurant and try New Zealand specialities such as grilled lamb chops or green-lipped mussels.
Night Tour: Stroll along the shores of Lake Wakatipu and enjoy the beautiful scenery.

Day 2:

Lake Wakatipu: Take a cruise on the TSS Earnslaw steamship to explore the lake.
Skyline Queenstown: Climb to the top to overlook the panoramic view of Queenstown and experience the Luge.
Kawarau Bridge Bungy: The world's first commercial bungee jumping site (optional).
Meals: Lunch will be served at the Sky Cable Car Restaurant and dinner will be served at the Lake View Restaurant.

Day 3:

Milford Sound: Take a boat tour of the sound to see waterfalls, cliffs and seals.
Scenic spots along the way: Drive through Mirror Lakes and Homer Tunnel.
Accommodation: Return to Queenstown and stay at the same hotel.
Meals: Enjoy lunch on the cruise ship and try Queenstown's specialties for dinner.

Day 4:

Lake Wanaka: Admire the "Wanaka Tree" in the lake.
Roys Peak Track: Hike to the top and enjoy a panoramic view of Lake Wanaka (6 hours round trip).
Accommodation: Edgewater Hotel.
Dining: Enjoy dinner at one of Wanaka's restaurants and try local seafood.

Day 5:

Mount Cook: New Zealand's highest peak, hike the Hooker Valley Track and admire the glacial lakes and snow-capped mountains.
Tasman Glacier: Take a glacier lake cruise and see icebergs up close.
Accommodation: The Hermitage Hotel.
Dining: Enjoy dinner at the hotel restaurant and try New Zealand specialities.

Day 6:

Lake Tekapo: Admire the turquoise hue of the water and visit the Church of the Good Shepherd.
Mount John Observatory: Stargazing at night, feel the shock of the southern hemisphere sky.
Accommodation: Peppers Bluewater Resort.
Dining: Enjoy dinner at the lake view restaurant and try local specialities.

Day 7:

Christchurch: Explore the 'Garden City' and visit the botanical gardens and the Avon River.
Shopping and Leisure: Buy souvenirs or enjoy afternoon tea in the city center.
Accommodation: The George.
Meals: Farewell dinner at a restaurant in Christchurch.

Day 8:

Activities: Depending on the flight time, you can move freely in the Christchurch city.
Airport transfer: Go to Christchurch Airport and end your trip to New Zealand's South Island.

Travel Tips

Note for self-driving: New Zealand drives on the left, so it is recommended that those with extensive driving experience rent a car.
Clothing advice: The climate in the South Island is changeable, so it is recommended to bring a windproof jacket, warm clothes and hiking shoes.
Book in advance: Popular attractions and activities require advance booking, especially Milford Sound cruises and stargazing.
Environmental protection note: New Zealand attaches great importance to environmental protection. Please do not discard garbage or destroy the natural landscape at will.
New Zealand's South Island is a place for the ultimate experience of pure nature. Whether it is snow-capped mountains and lakes, fjord grasslands, or the starry sky, you will feel the shock and beauty of nature. I hope this guide can help you plan an unforgettable trip to New Zealand’s South Island!