The gateway to South Island, this is a region of sunshine, wine, arts and crafts and stunning nature encompassing an area of superlative natural beauty. Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts or just those wanting a relaxing escape, this is a region not to be missed.
As the inter-island ferry terminus for the South Island, Picton is a busy, if rather small, port. It is beautifully situated at the head of Queen Charlotte Sound and for most visitors is their first impression of the South Island. Forming part of the Marlborough region, Picton is in every other respect a sleepy, little town, most visitors passing through en route to the larger town of Blenheim nearby, but there is good range of accommodation available along with cafés and several fine craft galleries.
With its above average sunshine record, beautiful sandy beaches and reputation for fine foods and arts and crafts, Nelson is a popular choice for New Zealanders and overseas visitors alike. One of the oldest settlements in the country, it is bustling and friendly.
I understand that one size doesn’t fit all, and that’s why you have the freedom to design your experience, your way.
Trip ideas
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Hike and Drive New Zealand
New Zealand Self DriveExplore with your own 4x4 and hike some of New Zealand's best backcountry trails.
From £4619
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Discover Aotearoa
New Zealand Self DriveThe ultimate self drive covering a lot of ground but with plenty of time to relax too.
From £4199
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Spectacular North and South
New Zealand Self DriveExplore New Zealand in depth on this well-paced self-drive allowing you to immerse yourself in the country's plentiful wonders.
From £4666
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South Island Explorer
New Zealand Self DriveExplore New Zealand's South Island in-depth brimming with magnificent scenery and unique wildlife.
From £2321 Excluding Flights
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Essential New Zealand
New Zealand Self DriveThis 14-day itinerary is designed for the budget-conscious traveller wanting to experience the best of New Zealand at an affordable cost.
From £1858
Trip experiences
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Seals 'n' Beach, Abel Tasman
New ZealandQualmark endorsed visitor activity Beginning in Kaiteriteri (with optional transfer from Nelson), this is a full-day catamaran journey aboard the Abel Tasman Voyager that heads along the golden expanse of Onetahuti Beach, and goes out in search of the highlights of Abel Tasman's unique wildlife and history.
Price on request
Accommodation ideas
Other New Zealand regions
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Auckland
The most cosmopolitan of New Zealand’s cities, one fifth of Auckland’s one million inhabitants are of Polynesian descent.
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Christchurch and Canterbury
From the lofty Southern Alps to the broad Canterbury Plains, the peaceful spa resort of Hanmer Springs to the bustle of the country’s most English of cities, Christchurch, this stunning region is one of contrast and diversity with experiences to match.
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Dunedin and Southland
With an abundance of natural wonders that includes some of the best wildlife viewing in the country, the South Island’s southern tip can also lay claim to the most interesting architecture in the elegant and stately city of Dunedin.
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Northland
Stretching 350km north from Auckland, Northland is New Zealand’s only sub-tropical region and with its above average sunshine record and glorious beaches, it is popular with locals as well as visitors.
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Pacific Coast
The Pacific coast region includes both the most travelled and least visited parts of New Zealand incorporating the Coromandel, the Bay of Plenty, Eastland and Hawke’s Bay.
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Rotorua and Central Plateau
In the geographic heart of New Zealand’s North Island, the immensely varied landscapes of this acclaimed region take in fertile farmlands, snow-capped volcanoes, steaming geothermal fields and crystal-clear trout-filled lakes.
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Southern Lakes
This picturesque southern corner of New Zealand has achieved almost legendary status for its superb scenery and range of adrenaline-charged activities, including skiing.
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Wellington and Wairarapa
Wellington is New Zealand’s vibrant capital city and is renowned for its arts and culture, proximity to nature and varied culinary experiences, perfectly complemented by the world class wines of the Wairarapa vineyards.
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West Coast
The West Coast of New Zealand's South Island is wild and rugged, yet immensely beautiful and a popular location for visitors.
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Western North Island
Taranaki is the North Island’s 'nose', a peninsula that juts out into the wild Tasman Sea. From its broad, flat plain, used mostly for dairy farming, the majestic volcanic cone of Mt. Taranaki rises to over 2500m.
