SOUTHERN CHARM

From stargazing to glacier hiking, New Zealand's South Island is a magical winter wonderland

WORDS & IMAGES COURTESY OF: TOURISM NEW ZEALAND

With some of the most spectacular landscapes in the world, it's no wonder the South Island reaches peak beauty during the cooler months, from jagged, snow-capped peaks to glacial lakes in brilliant blue hues. Here, the best things to do when the temperature drops.

Dark Sky Diner

1. ADMIRE THE WINTER NIGHT SKIES

New Zealand’s dark, clear skies make for magical stargazing experiences. Take a tour at Tekapo's Dark Sky Project or Tekapo Stargazing and bask in the starry night. Visit Aoraki/Mount Cook and gaze into the wonders above through powerful telescopes with Big Sky Stargazing. Longer winter nights can also mean that you might be lucky enough to catch the celestial wonder aurora australis (southern lights).

Winter is also a time to celebrate Matariki, the Māori new year. During the months of June and July, the Matariki star cluster reappears in the skies, ushering in a new year according to the Māori lunar calendar.

Fox Glacier

2. EXPLORE THOUSAND- YEAR-OLD GLACIERS

New Zealand is home to many stunning glaciers, with most of them located near the Main Divide in the Southern Alps. Glacier country lies on the west coast, where the two most accessible glaciers – Fox and Franz Josef – are found. Follow the walking tracks up to the terminus of either glacier for an up-close view, or hike through the bush to a viewing point. If you want to get really close, book a heli-hike guided tour and explore the ice caves and icefalls (frozen waterfalls).

Fox Glacier

3. WARM UP IN BEAUTIFULLY LOCATED HOT TUBS

You’ll find hot tubs and hot springs aplenty! Take in the stunning mountain views from New Zealand's highest altitude spa perched up at Mt Hutt. In the resort town of Hanmer Springs, soak in mineral-rich hot pools that are surrounded by native gardens with alpine vistas. Go off the beaten track and immerse yourself in the wilderness at Maruia Hot Springs. Bath under the clear, starry night at Hot Tubs Omarama or indulge in a luxurious evening onsen experience, lit only by Japanese lanterns from sunset.

Maruia Hot Springs

4. ADMIRE FIORDLAND'S WINTERY SCENES

Fiordland is one of the most dramatic and beautiful parts of New Zealand. Experience its magical treasures by water, air, or on foot. Speed across picturesque Lake Te Anau on a jet boat tour or change the pace and take a boat cruise in one of the majestic sounds. Book a scenic flight and view lush peaks, sparkling lakes, glaciers and spectacular fjords from above.

Fox Glacier

5. ALL ABOARD ONE OF THE GREATEST RAIL JOURNEYS

Embark on the unforgettable TranzAlpine rail journey. Travel from the East Coast through the patchwork Canterbury Plains up into Arthur’s Pass National Park. From here, journey down into the wild beech forests of the West Coast, finishing in Greymouth. The train stops at several remote stations along the way, so you have the option to explore more of the area. This is no ordinary train trip – you’ll venture past the snow-capped peaks of the Southern Alps, the ice-fed Waimakariri River and dramatic viaducts.

6. HAVE SOME FUN IN THE SNOW

For those who'd like to spend time in the snow, but skiing and snowboarding isn't their thing, there are plenty of other activities on offer. Feel the thrill of a sled dog team running through the trails of the Southern Alps with UnderDog Sled Dog Tours, or experience a backcountry snowmobiling adventure with Queenstown Snowmobiles. Meet the dog sledding team on the kennel tour experience with Real Dog Adventures in Central Otago. If you're up on the ski fields, go tobogganing down the slopes of Mt Hutt, Cardrona, Coronet Peak or The Remarkables.

Ride the gondola up Bob's Peak above Queenstown to enjoy panoramic views of the Southern Alps and Lake Wakatipu.

Queenstown Snowmobiles

7. SEE THE WHALE MIGRATION

New Zealand is renowned for amazing whale watching opportunities, complete with marvellous natural surroundings. You'll be spoilt for choice: during the winter months, humpback whales migrate from Antarctica and travel north to the warmer waters of New Zealand to breed. They stay in warm waters and migrate back south to feed as winter comes to an end, making winter the best time to see these majestic giants.

Kaikoura whales

8. BE ADVENTUROUS THIS WINTER

Feeling brave? Will you take on the challenge of bungy jumping in Queenstown, skydiving in Wānaka, or paragliding and ziplining across the South Island? Take in the breathtaking views with tandem paragliding or try hang gliding 5,400 feet above sea level. Feel the exhilaration of a jet boat ride and journey deep into the heart of Mount Aspiring National Park. For something truly unique, experience Wildwire in Wānaka – the world's highest waterfall cable climb.

Jetboating in Glenorchy, Queenstown

9. RIDE THE TASMAN’S GREAT TASTE TRAIL

This network of cycleways is threaded inland and along the coast, linking Nelson, Wakefield, Richmond, Motueka and Kaiteriteri. Looping through the region’s charming countryside and along its enviable coastline, postcardperfect views are only part of the story. This leisurely trail network is a terrific way to tour the region’s attractions, from art galleries and boutiques to fruit stalls, craft breweries and wineries. The full trail is 174 km-long and can also be tailored to day rides, allowing plenty of time for enjoying the sights.

10. GO WALKING AND HIKING

Whether you’re looking for easy scenic tracks or backcountry trails, you will find plenty of hiking trails around Queenstown and Wānaka with spectacular scenery around every corner. Take in the panoramic views from Queenstown Hill Time Walk or take on a challenge and climb up famous Roy's Peak track. If you're staying near Mt Hutt, check out the Rakaia Gorge Walkway and marvel at the blue-green waters of the Rakaia River.

Tackle the world's highest waterfall cable climb

MAIN IMAGE: Queenstown Skyline