"Abel Tasman Coastal Track New Zealand's smallest national park certainly packs a punch. Unlike so many of the great ragged mountains that dot the country, Abel Tasman curves along the north coast of the South Island, peppered with golden sand beaches and steep cliffs that fall away to crystal-blue water. There are many options for exploring the park—by water taxi and boat, kayak, walking, or a combination of all three. Normally taking 4 to 5 days to hike the whole coastal track, you can split up the journey at many of the campsites, cabins, or even boat hostels along the way. One of the most interesting features of Abel Tasman is the high and low tide extremes, which affect the paths you take on the hike. Sometimes at low tide you might be able to cross a long beach while at high tide you have to go the long way around, making exploring this national park much more exciting."

"Heli-Hiking Adventure on Franz Josef Glacier in New Zealand I was a glacier virgin. I had never seen one in person before, much less set foot on one. That all changed though as the helicopter lifted off and took off towards the incredible Franz Josef Glacier on New Zealand’s South Island. Almost as soon as the Glacier Helicopters flight lifted off, Mt. Cook popped into view, a looming presence throughout the area. We skirted over the lush rainforest and before I knew it, we were on top of the glacier. It’s amazing really; the glacier looks exactly like a glacier should look. It was a vast, frozen river leading from the tops of the mountains to the valley below. We landed at the top for a little exploration and impromptu snowball fights before taking off again to zoom past the massive crevices of the ice mountain. The ride back included even more impressive views of the glacier and the flat plains below leading to the Tasman Sea. It really is strange to see the glacier adjacent to the mild valley below. There’s something surreal about it all and that makes it one of the best adventure activities in New Zealand . For your own glacier adventure, visit the small mountain town of Franz Josef where you can find tour providers operating a variety of ice-based activities, including these extraordinary helicopter tours."

"Find Your Sense of Adventure in Queenstown If you visit one place in the South Island of New Zealand , let it be Queenstown. One of the most popular tourist destinations in New Zealand , and for good reason, Queenstown couldn't be in a better location. Surrounded by sweeping mountains alongside a gorgeous blue lake, Queenstown looks like a postcard from every angle. In addition to being picture perfect, Queenstown is also the adventure capital of New Zealand . If you want to try something daring in New Zealand , do it here. Whether you're jumping off bridges or falling out of planes or jet-boating through gorges, there's no shortage of adrenalin sports in Queenstown."

"Flying in a Vintage Tiger Moth over Lake Wanaka While there are many ways to experience the incredible landscapes of the South Island, perhaps none is so vast or as exciting as from the skies. With plenty of helicopter and scenic flight companies to chose from, it can be hard to decide which way to go. Being a history fan and a lover of experiential travel, I am always on the lookout for very unique experiences on the road. As soon as I found out that you could fly in a vintage WWII plane over Lake Wanaka, I was sold. After pulling on the classic jumpsuit, bomber jacket, goggles and hat, I strapped myself in the front seat of the plane for the ride of a lifetime. Soaring high over the blue lakes and snow-capped mountains, just as they did 70 years ago, was something I'll never forget."

"Hiking the Milford Track One of the greatest walks in New Zealand, the Milford track is just over 50 kilometers and leads into the famous Milford Sound. Considered one of the most beautiful places in New Zealand, the Milford Track is categorized as one of New Zealand's "Great Walks," prompting many people from near and far to come hike the 5 day circuit. Giant waterfalls crash down from vertical cliffs, and mist usually hangs about the tops of the peaks creating a mysterious, almost legendary feel to the place. Whether you are hiking the track or cruising in a boat around the fiords, or even kayaking the Milford Sound, definitely don't skip this remote part of New Zealand on a visit."

"Walk Along the Pancake Rocks in Punakaiki Along the wild west coast of New Zealand , you will find many curious rock formations and interesting coastlines. Near Punakaiki and a rainforest are the famous Pancake Rocks, a limestone formation that has formed lined pillar-like rocks along the sea. When the tide goes in and out, it can shoot water through the tunnels and holes, creating massive blowholes visible to tourists. Usually just a quick stop between the southwest and northwest coast, Punakaiki has many great walks and hikes among its forests, along with kayaking, surfing, and rugged beaches to explore—perfect for anyone looking to get off the beaten path in New Zealand."

"Sail Through the Marlborough Sounds Queen Charlotte Sound is the gateway to the South Island, an honor that it shares with the other Marlborough Sounds. One of the best and most traditional ways to make the journey from the North to South Islands is by ferry from Wellington into Picton. This beautiful boat ride will take you through some of the Marlborough Sounds along the north coast. Covering almost 4,000 km, there are plenty of beautiful spots to explore, camp in, and get to know better. In a great location near Nelson and Abel Tasman, going in and out of the South Island, you shouldn't miss a stop at Queen Charlotte Sound."

"Drinks at the Library My go-to spot for after-work drinks is the Library in Wellington, and no, not the public library. Right on Courteney Place, there is a nondescript sign reading "The Library" in front of a simple doorway with several staircases. If you know what to look for, you head up the stairs and at the top behind one of the doors you'll find the classy Library Bar. Decked out with books from floor to ceiling, cozy red chairs reminiscent of college libraries around the world, and a cocktail menu that will blow your mind, the Library is the hip spot in town for drinks."

"Annandale Four private villas, including a historic homestead, are spread across a 4,000-acre coastal farm. The landscape undulates between bays and the Southern Alps an hour and a half from Christchurch on New Zealand ’s majestic South Island. Each property showcases unique design elements: Scrubby Bay’s living room is outfitted in Missoni Home, while the 12-person Homestead has a bathroom decked out in Boffi. Other furniture pieces, crockery, and works of art were made by New Zealand craftspeople. Most rugs were spun from the property’s own sheep wool. On top of the comforts and thoughtful aesthetic, the best part about Annandale is its remoteness. Guests are immersed in a farm experience that puts them in touch with the seasons, whether sheep and cows are lambing and calving in spring, or the surrounding mountains are glistening with winter snow. Accommodations come with ample verandas so guests can take in the scenery and slow down to appreciate the surprises hidden around every corner. The original stables have been converted into a beautiful loft, and a secret stairway in the Homestead travels between one of the bedrooms and the butler’s pantry."

"A retreat fringed by swaying tussock grass on the edge of Lake Te Anau, Fiordland Lodge is the luxury choice for travelers visiting Fiordland National Park on the South Island. The lodge was designed to magnify the inspiring local environment; that means 36-foot tree trunks for beams in the main lodge, a floor-to-ceiling fireplace laid with river stones, and glass walls that frame Lake Te Anau and the oft snow-capped peaks of Mount Murchison and Kepler Track. The palette is neutral and understated, always putting the emphasis on the exceptional natural beauty of the area. Themain lodge and two private cabins feel like a world unto themselves—a beautiful, comfortable, and relaxing world that is at the gateway to the Milford and Doubtful sounds and all the other Fiordland National Park wonders."

"A farm-style experience about an hour from Christchurch, Okuti Garden caters to travelers who love to create and play. An art box encourages crafting; “tree circles” are great for yoga and meditation; and a small lake features a boat popular among readers and small children. Bohemian accommodations include yurts, a tepee, a caravan, and a cabin. Each is homespun and handmade, decorated with drawings, wind chimes, and dream catchers left by former guests. The property is completely off grid, relying on composting toilets, a solar shower, and a gray-water system that recycles wastewater to irrigate the wetlands. One area of the wetlands grows willow rods, which are woven into arches, domes, and tunnels—turning waste into wonders."

"A short drive north of the South Island town of Oamaru, Riverstone Kitchen is often lauded as one of New Zealand's best regional restaurants. The stylish dining room is anchored by a robust fireplace crafted from local river stones, and much of the seasonal menu is crafted from the restaurant's own organic orchards and gardens. A more relaxed café ambience for daily breakfast and lunches segues to a more formal mood at dinner from Thursdays to Saturdays, and the savvy drink list includes wines from the nearby Waitaki Valley as well as small-batch beers from around New Zealand. Ask if any of the excellent Belgian-style farmhouse ales from Oamaru's Craftwork Brewery are available."

"Welcome to one of Queenstown's most versatile venues. Formerly a 1980s motel—check out the quirky Tudor-style exterior—Sherwood's now been reborn as a stylish destination in a hilltop location around twomilesfrom the center of town. There are still well-priced accommodations on offer, but the tastier focus here is the hip bistro and bar. The seasonal menu spotlights local meats including salmon, lamb, and venison, and a well-curated drink list includes just maybe New Zealand's most eclectic assembly of wines as well as craft beer from Queenstown's Altitude Brewing. Check out Sherwood's Facebook page for its occasional live-music and comedy nights, or sign up for daily yoga and well-being sessions to provide balance between virtue and vice."

"Combining fine-dining flair with the relaxed ambience of a mountain resort town, Rata in Queenstown is one of the New Zealand eateries operated by well-known Kiwi chef Josh Emett. With a CV that includes cooking stints in the United States and London, Emett has crafted a menu that deftly marriesa range of international influences to proudly local produce. Sharing plates include New Zealand octopus with saffron aioli or Marlborough salmon with horseradish and green apple, while local venison and merino lamb are standout main courses. The colors and feel of the forest inform the stylish decor—the eponymous rata is a tree native to New Zealand. Two- and three-course lunch menus are both a good value."

"Venture to the slightly rough harbor town of Lyttelton near Christchurch for some of the country's most innovative and inspirational degustation menus. The intensely seasonal options constantly evolve—often on a daily basis—and tasting adventures from five to 12 courses are available. Ingredients are harvested from small local farms and producers as well as from the restaurant's own extensive gardens; foraging in the hills and valleys of the nearby Banks Peninsula is also an integral part of the culture at Roots. Visit with an open mind and an appetite for culinary surprises to experience one of New Zealand's most memorable dining occasions. Well-curated wine matches are also available."

"Here's where to fulfill your fantasy of a glass of fine Central Otago pinot noir amid semi-alpine views of New Zealand 's South Island. In cooler weather, seated near a cozy fire in Amisfield's dining room is the place to be; during summer, the action moves to include views of nearby Lake Hayes and a shaded location under the market umbrellas on the spacious patio. Either way, choose one of the Trust the Chef menu options, then sit back and enjoy tasting menus from three to seven courses. Much of what's on hand,including venison, salmon and lamb, is regionally sourced, and optional matched wine flights are also available."

"Across New Zealand you'll find weekend farmers' markets packed with vendors of artisanal products and organic fruit and vegetables, as well as innovative food trucks providing tasty options for breakfast or lunch. Held in the leafy surrounds of Christchurch's historic Riccarton House, this Saturday-morning institution attracts gourmands from across the city. For travelers, it's a great place to try cheese and salmon from around the South Island, sample craft beer from local breweries, and stock up on baked goods for on-the-road picnics. Must-visit stalls include Sausage Sisters (for hearty pork-and-apple-sausage rolls) and Utopia Hot (for freshly baked waffles with seasonal fruit)."