Top Things to do in South Island
Top 10 Lookouts in South Island, New Zealand
Discover the best top things to do in South Island, New Zealand including Onahau Point Lookout, Sir Leonard Wright Lookout, The Mole (Sea Wall), Coronet Peak, Signal Hill, Lindis Pass, Godley Head, Lewis Pass, Tweedies Gully Track, Cashmere Hill Lookout.
Restaurants in South Island
1. Onahau Point Lookout
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 4 reviews
Reviewed By AucklandWiz - Auckland, New Zealand
We were staying at Te Mahia and this lookout track is not very far from the resort. We spoke to a couple of people about the difficulty and there were a few different takes on it but most people said it was quite tough- and quite tough it was ! I am not a tramper but am reasonably fit and found the 'incessant straight up' track a challenge. There was nowhere for active recovery. We had a number of short rests along the way and admittedly my legs were somewhat jelly by the time we reached the top. But the rewards of the hour long ascent were amazing. The views of Kenepuru Sound as you ascend through the tress was magic- the colours- the turquoises, blues, greens etc. Wow! The weather was stunning. At the top we took in the 360 degree view of Kenepuru and Queen Charlotte Sounds. In the distance you can see the interislander coming and going. We were nearly put off by others and I am so glad we did it. Stunning!!!
2. Sir Leonard Wright Lookout
3. The Mole (Sea Wall)
4. Coronet Peak
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1,530 reviews
Opening for winter 19 June 2021! Coronet Peak is New Zealand's most accessible ski resort, an easy 20 minute drive from Queenstown via a scenic, sealed access road. Whether you're an expert seeking long rolling trails, or complete beginners looking for a learn to ski/board package, or just want to experience the snow with a gondola or toboggan ride, then the friendly team at Coronet Peak are ready to make your mountain experience a fun and easy one. Coronet Peak is also the home of Night Ski, a winter bucket list activity in Queenstown, New Zealand. You can hire all your rental equipment on the mountain and our retail shop stocks all your other essentials for a fun day on the snow. Need ski or snowboard lessons? Our coaches cater to all ages and abilities; book 7 days in advance and save 10%. We also offer a ski bus transport service from central Queenstown that is available to book through our website. We look forward to seeing you!
Reviewed By sillymuso - Howick, New Zealand
We went during the school holidays in July so it was fairly busy as is expected. Having said that, lots of fun on the snow. Great for everyone including those that are new to skiing or snowboarding. There is a dedicated area for those that are learning and if you only plan on staying there then you don't have to pay as much. Access by car was easy (just drive carefully and have snow chains just in case).
5. Signal Hill
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 388 reviews
Reviewed By JnVSydney - Greater Sydney, Australia
A nice drive up the hill, full of winding turns. Once there, there was plenty of parking, it was a beautiful sunny day which made the views even more stunning, so peaceful and tranquil, It really puts Dunedin, into perspective. The is also a section for mountain bikers, something for all levels apparently. Definitely worth a visit if you have the time.
6. Lindis Pass
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 13 reviews
Reviewed By WordChristchurch - Christchurch, New Zealand
This is a dramatic, and visually stunning part ofthe South Island in New Zealand. Lovely road. Enjoy it.
7. Godley Head
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 76 reviews
Reviewed By Emma542 - Auckland, New Zealand
We did a loop walk from Taylor’s Mistake car park around the coast up to the gun emplacements and continued around to circle back down to the beach. Amazing views up and down the coast and along to Lyttelton harbour around the other side of the heads. Looks more daunting than it is - gradual climb on well formed track, not too strenuous. Took us about 2.5hrs at average pace with a few photo and drink stops along the way. Definitely worth checking out.
8. Lewis Pass
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 25 reviews
Reviewed By 007_Richard_E - Thame, United Kingdom
We drove along Lewis pass after leaving Nelson after staying at Maruia Hot Springs, the drive was so enjoyable as we took in the breathtaking scenery
9. Tweedies Gully Track
10. Cashmere Hill Lookout
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 15 reviews
Reviewed By milliesmum2016 - Christchurch, New Zealand
There are heaps of lookout spots along the line of hills which ring Christchurch and look over the plains to the mountains. If you are stopping the car to check the view just be aware that the road can be narrow and curvy, with A LOT of cycle traffic, as well as vehicles. So just make sure that there is plenty of room to pull your car safely off the road as far as you can. The views on a clear, bright day are truly breathtaking and never fail to delight. A very good safe place to do your viewing would be from Victoria Park, along the many walkways there. There is plenty of free, safe, off road parking and you can bring your dog.
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