South Island scenery, New Zealand

Discover New Zealand

South Island Activities

For families & non-hunters

New Zealand is more than just a great hunting destination — there are many exciting activities for the non-hunter to enjoy the vacation too.

Sightseeing & Non-Hunting Adventures

World-class scenery, a family-friendly locale and welcoming English-speaking people all make New Zealand one of the most sought-after destinations on anyone’s bucket list. From desert country to beautiful beaches, the mystique of the Southern Alps to the remarkable West Coast rainforest, New Zealand is a study of contrasting environments, each with its own unique activities to indulge in.

In close proximity to them all, our exclusive travel agent can help you tailor your hunting experience to include fun activities for family and non-hunters that will be truly memorable. They’ll help you arrange all your travel and build your itinerary, allowing you to go at your own pace and see the sights relevant to you. The South Island roads are easy to navigate and safe to drive, and the local folk are exceptionally hospitable to international guests.

A Few Popular Activities

Tekapo Hot Pools & Day Spa

Overlooking Lake Tekapo — pools, a cafe and day spa, with an ice rink in winter. About 20 minutes from the lodge.

Hiking & Horse Treks

Great trails from 1 to 6 hours, and horse rides for all levels around lakes, mountains and river valleys. Within 15 minutes of the lodge.

‘Middle Earth’ by Air

A scenic airplane tour soaring over Mount Cook and the longest glaciers, featured in The Lord of the Rings. 20 minutes from the lodge.

Mount John Dark Sky Observatory

One of the world’s top night-sky reserves, with the clearest, darkest and most spectacular skies in New Zealand.

Church of the Good Shepherd

The iconic little church on the shore of Lake Tekapo, framed by the Southern Alps — one of the most scenic views in the world.

Mount Cook & Hillary Centre

A tribute to Sir Edmund Hillary with a cafe and hiking trails to the glaciers, beneath New Zealand’s highest peak.

World-Famous Trout Fishing

Some of the best fly fishing and guides in the world — day trips have you sight-and-cast fishing within an hour.

Winery Tours

Central Otago pinot noir, Marlborough sauvignon blanc and delicate Waipara whites — a vino-lover’s paradise, 1–3 hours’ drive.

Jet Boating

Invented in the South Island for shallow braided rivers — an action-packed trip with scenery to match, including Queenstown’s Shotover Jet.

Skiing & Snowboarding

From late May, ski three local fields, or heli-ski into the mountains for fresh untracked snow. 20 minutes to an hour away.

Oamaru Blue Penguins

See the world’s smallest penguin in its natural coastal habitat, with guided and night tours. 1.5 hours’ drive.

Queenstown & the Glaciers

New Zealand’s favourite visitor destination, plus the Fox and Franz Josef glaciers on the West Coast — adventure, exploration or relaxation.