Scenic view of Milford Sound

South Island Itineraries

New Zealand South Island Itineraries

Experience the South Island at its most unforgettable – a place where snow‑capped peaks rise sharply from deep fiords, turquoise lakes glow beneath wide open skies, and wild coastlines stretch far beyond the horizon. Shaped by glaciers, legends, and dramatic natural forces, this is a landscape that inspires awe at every turn.

Our luxury South Island itineraries are designed for travellers who crave space, adventure, and the kind of scenery that stays with you long after you’ve returned home. Whether you’re gliding through the still waters of Milford Sound, standing beneath the towering presence of Aoraki/Mt Cook, tasting world‑class wines in Central Otago, exploring the rugged beauty of the West Coast, or unwinding in the golden bays of Abel Tasman, each journey combines boutique lodges, private touring, and meaningful experiences that reveal the true essence of the South Island.

Explore our sample itineraries to spark ideas, then collaborate with our expert team to craft a personalised journey shaped around your interests, your pace, and your sense of adventure.

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The Lindis Black Diamond View map
14 Day South Island Adventure

Explore the very best of the South Island Adventure. Discover hidden gems, land on remote alpine vistas, immerse yourself in nature the and indulge at luxury lodges. Discover our world of sophisticated splendor and incredible scenery paired with unforgettable bespoke guided experiences.

Onsen Hot Pools map
12 Day Picture Perfect South Island

This trip has been designed for those who love to include soft adventure activities as a way of exploring new places and trying new experiences. Sample the best scenery that the South Island has to offer along with a few gentle challenges along the way. We can slow down the pace to add more time to relax between destinations or suggest alternative activities to match all levels of fitness. Sit back and enjoy the process of having your New Zealand adventure tailored to you, by us.

Fockhill Fly Fishing map
10 Day South Island Fly Fishing

A fully customisable luxury fly fishing adventure, combining world-class angling with exclusive lodge stays and scenic helicopter transfers. Begin at Stonefly Lodge, casting into pristine rivers near Nelson Lakes National Park with expert guides. Continue south to Fiordland Lodge for remote backcountry fly fishing amid dramatic alpine landscapes. Conclude at the iconic Blanket Bay on Lake Wakatipu, where heli-fishing grants access to untouched streams deep in the Southern Alps.

The Path to Your Perfect Escape

If you are new to Absolute, here is what you can expect: a personalised service, an expertly crafted itinerary and a seamless journey from inspiration to booking.

1
EXPLORE

Browse our handcrafted journeys for inspiration, each one shaped by genuine local insight and a passion for showcasing the best of New Zealand.

2
CONNECT

You will work directly with a New Zealand-based Travel Designer, no middlemen, just our personal service, expert knowledge and exceptional value.

3
PERFECT

Together, we will refine every detail, ensuring your trip is exactly as you imagined and more — with all the hard work expertly handled for you.

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