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Nine days in New Zealand's South Island

From Wikitravel

Understand
Prepare
Get in
Go touring

9 Days in New Zealand's South Island.

[edit] Understand

This is a typical example of a 9 day independent trip around the South Island of New Zealand. Cost for a trip of this length is approximately $NZ 1200 - $NZ 2000 depending on the quality of the accommodation and the types of activities you opt for.

[edit] Prepare

The South Island offers a full range of activities for both the very adventurous (and fit!) and those who are more easy-going. When touring the South Island it's best to bring the appropriate clothing for the time of year you are traveling. Weather on the South Island can be significantly colder than the North Island, so be prepared.

Kaikoura whale watch tours and glacier heli-hikes can fill up quickly, so it's best to make your reservations before you arrive in New Zealand.

[edit] Get in

Most international travellers will arrive via the international airport at Christchurch. International flights to Queenstown are also available.

The itinerary can be broken into sub-trips or extended at certain places to suit your specific needs. For example, the area around Queenstown is a good place to consider spending a few extra days, or you could choose to keep going north from Kaikoura and spend some time at the top of the South Island. You could also choose to spend an extra day or two in Christchurch to explore the arts scene and shopping.