New Zealand is a country of pristine lakes and rivers, grandiose mountains, pastoral valleys and expansive sky. The South Island has drawn wide praise as being one of the most beautiful places in the world, and we're not surprised - though it's a small country, the diversity of New Zealand's landscape is second to none.
With all that the South Island has to offer nature lovers, it's difficult to know where to begin on your adventure through the Land of the Long White Cloud. Here are a few of the activities you simply can't miss while touring New Zealand.
Though New Zealand's daytime delights are certainly breathtaking, don't overlook the country's nighttime view. Located in the central South Island, Lake Tekapo is home to what's been called the world's largest dark sky reserve. Take in the southern sky free from light pollution feel closer to the heavens than you've ever been before.
If you're a real astronomical aficionado, you may want to invest in a tour of the Mount John or Cowan's observatories. Both of these facilities can be accessed with the help of friendly guide through a local tour provider. If you know your stars, though, it may be a good deal - you'll be able to utilise the equipment researchers and astronomers use to take inventory of the South Island's night sky.
While you're here, consider staying at Mantra Lake Tekapo. This accommodation offers you expansive views of the lake and sky, making it an ideal place for wannabe stargazers to call home away from home. With a private courtyard, outdoor barbecue, swimming pool and hot tub, the resort has all the amenities you could ask for and then some.
Anyone who's ever visited Queenstown will be familiar with the image of paragliders cascading down from the tops of the city's beautiful cliffs, overlooking the town that lies between the hills
The Milford Sound is located in New Zealand's Fiordland, an area complete with heart-stopping cliffs, a gorgeous climate and fresh mountain air. The Milford Sound is known to experience its share of rainfall, but that doesn't mean it isn't worth a trip - it's one of New Zealand's most iconic landscapes.
One of the best ways to experience the sound is to explore it by kayak. Paddle through the water nestled between the grandiose peaks for which the area is known. A number of companies offer kayaking tours throughout the area - and if you're a bit less adventurous, you can also experience the sound via a boat tour or day cruise.
Queenstown is known worldwide for its majestic scenery. Mountains surround the small city, which has become a haven for backpackers, skiers, snowboarders and adventurers from all walks of life. Anyone who's ever visited Queenstown will be familiar with the image of paragliders cascading down from the tops of the city's beautiful cliffs, overlooking the town that lies between the hills.
You can paraglide down the mountain with a partner in a tandem arrangement, or can go it yourself - with the help of a guide, of course. A gondola ride up the mountain means that you don't even have to physically exert yourself in order to enjoy the views. You just have to hold your breath, jump and enjoy!
While you're staying in Queenstown, you'll need a place to call home. Mantra Marina is an ideal choice, located on the banks of Wakatipu. Whether you're here to paraglide or you'd prefer to ski, hike, swim or kayak, you can do it all from your home base holiday accommodation. The resort features on-site dining and a number of different room options, so families of all shapes and sizes can stay here while enjoying Queenstown.