South Island, New Zealand Travel: Itinerary & Costs

If you dream of a trip to a land of snow-capped mountains, crystal-clear lakes, and majestic fjords, then South Island, New Zealand is the perfect destination for you.

Bring along your heart eager to explore and the self-guided South Island New Zealand travel guide below, and you're sure to have an unforgettable journey. Let's explore the detailed itinerary, check-in spots, food, transportation tips, and estimated costs in this article with Vietjet!

1. Overview of South Island, New Zealand

1.1 Where is South Island of New Zealand?

New Zealand is actually a combination of more than 600 islands located near each other. Among these, there are two main islands: the North Island and the South Island. South Island lies to the south of New Zealand, separated from the North Island by the Cook Strait. South Island is larger than the North Island, covering about 58% of the country's total area. The terrain here is quite diverse with mountains, glaciers, lakes, fjords, and plains... Traveling to South Island New Zealand is an ideal choice for those passionate about exploration, with breathtaking landscapes, pristine nature, and a cool climate.

Compared to the North Island, South Island of New Zealand is more pristine but hidden with many exciting destinations.

1.2 The Best Time to Visit South Island, New Zealand

The peak tourist season for South Island, New Zealand usually falls between December and February. The special thing is that while the Northern Hemisphere is experiencing snowfall, the weather on South Island during this period is warm, dry, and perfect for outdoor activities like trekking and kayaking.

You can still visit South Island New Zealand at any time of the year. Each season on South Island offers its own beauty:

Autumn (March - May): If you want to enjoy golden sunshine and avoid crowds, autumn is a great time to visit New Zealand. Early autumn is still quite warm (beaches remain lively until April in some areas), with cool evenings and vibrant autumn colors spread across the countryside. Walking in the forests and hiking are ideal during this time since the weather is not too hot.
Winter (June - August): This is the best time for winter sports enthusiasts, such as skiing and snowboarding. Many ski resorts open in June, with the heaviest snowfall typically occurring in July and August.
Spring (September - November): The weather begins to warm up, though rain showers may still occur. This is an ideal time for hiking, spring flower photography, and watching the lambs frolicking in the fields. Some ski resorts remain open in spring. Days are typically warm, and evenings are cool, perfect for exploring nature.

If you visit South Island New Zealand in spring and summer, you can watch the lambs frolicking on the green pastures.

2. How to Get to South Island, New Zealand

2.1 Traveling from Vietnam to South Island, New Zealand

Christchurch International Airport (CHC) is the main gateway to South Island, New Zealand. However, there are currently no direct flights from Vietnam to Christchurch. Typically, you can buy a flight to Auckland (North Island) and then continue to South Island.

Good news for Vietnamese travelers: Starting from September 13, 2025, Vietjet will officially operate the Ho Chi Minh City - Auckland route, opening up an opportunity for convenient and affordable travel to New Zealand. The flights are expected to run four round-trip flights per week, offering a variety of flight times. You can follow Vietjet's fanpage and website for the latest flight schedules and ticket booking information.

After arriving in Auckland, travelers can continue their journey to South Island, New Zealand using the following transportation options:

Domestic flights: From Auckland, you can fly to cities on South Island, such as Christchurch, Queenstown, or Dunedin.
Ferry: You can also take a ferry from Wellington (North Island) to Picton (South Island) through the Cook Strait.
Car rental: For a road trip experience, travelers can rent a car and drive from Auckland to South Island, combining it with a ferry ride through the Cook Strait.

Additionally, you can fly to major cities in Australia and then take a flight to South Island cities such as Christchurch, Queenstown, or Dunedin. You can refer to flight schedules and ticket prices to Australia at Vietjet's website here.

For those traveling to South Island, New Zealand on a self-guided tour and looking to save costs, don't miss Vietjet's 0 VND ticket promotion. This offer applies to passengers who purchase domestic and international tickets between 12 PM and 2 PM daily. Check out the details of the promotion here!

Travelers can purchase flights from Ho Chi Minh City (TPHCM) to Auckland and continue to South Island, New Zealand.

2.2 Getting Around South Island, New Zealand

For a trip exploring South Island, New Zealand, you should consider renting a car to fully experience the beauty of this magical land. Although public transport can be used in some main routes, most of the famous destinations are spread out across the island and are quite far apart. Moreover, the beautiful landscapes hidden along the untouched roads can only be conquered by a self-driving car.

For a trip exploring South Island, New Zealand, you should choose to rent a car for your entire journey.

3. Where to Go in South Island, New Zealand?

3.1 Christchurch - The Largest City on South Island

Christchurch is known as the "Garden City" with large parks and architecture heavily influenced by the British. Visitors can check in at many famous tourist spots such as the Christchurch Botanic Gardens, Cathedral Square, New Brighton Beach...

Additionally, you can experience a boat ride on the Avon River and enjoy the picturesque views. If you are an art lover, the Christchurch Art Centre or the Canterbury Museum are must-visit attractions.

3.2 Queenstown - The "Paradise" for Thrill Seekers

Queenstown is not only a beautiful city beside Lake Wakatipu but also a "paradise" for thrill-seekers who want to challenge themselves. In this city, you can experience heart-pounding activities such as bungee jumping from the Kawarau Bridge, jet boating on the Shotover River, ziplining through pristine forests, and the extreme Ledge Swing...

Moreover, Queenstown offers countless other exciting activities like hiking, kayaking, rock climbing, mountain biking, and snowboarding down snow-covered slopes... You will never get bored in this city!

Queenstown is not only famous for its stunning landscapes but also attracts visitors with thrilling adventure sports.

3.3 Lake Tekapo - "Paradise" of Turquoise Waters

Lake Tekapo stands out with its unique turquoise water color, like a giant gem nestled between the mountains. Besides the surreal beauty, the area also features many hot springs where you can relax after your travel journey.

Additionally, there is the famous Good Shepherd Church, one of the most photogenic spots in New Zealand. At night, Tekapo is one of the best places in the world to stargaze, as it is located within the Aoraki Mackenzie Dark Sky Reserve. You can join professional tours to admire the Milky Way and the sparkling constellations.

Tekapo is one of the best stargazing spots in the world.

3.4 Wanaka - The Legendary "Lone Tree"

Lake Wanaka is the perfect destination for those who want to experience the feeling of rowing a boat along the river, enjoying the beautiful scenery on both shores. Nature lovers can also visit the Mou Waho Island Reserve, home to the rare Buff Weka bird. Additionally, don’t miss the legendary "Lone Tree" in the middle of the lake and the famous Roys Peak trekking trail.

Those who enjoy physical activities can also hike the Roy’s Peak Track.

3.5 Milford Sound - "The Most Beautiful Fjord" in the World

Located in Fiordland National Park, Milford Sound is often referred to as the "8th wonder of the world," famous for its towering cliffs, stunning waterfalls, and mystical fog. You can explore it by cruise ship, kayak, or take in the views from a helicopter.

When visiting Milford Sound, you can join a sightseeing cruise or take a kayak to explore the fjord more closely.

3.6 Franz Josef Glacier - "Majestic Glacier"

Franz Josef is the most famous and accessible glacier on South Island, New Zealand. Visitors can join a glacier trekking tour, take a scenic flight over the glacier, or relax in the local hot springs.

Franz Josef is the most famous and easily accessible glacier on South Island, New Zealand.

4. What to Eat in South Island, New Zealand

A complete South Island New Zealand travel experience wouldn't be complete without tasting its local dishes. Here are some food suggestions you can’t miss when traveling to South Island:

Roast Lamb: A famous specialty, tender and rich in flavor, usually marinated with herbs and slow-cooked, served with mint sauce.
Fresh Seafood: Green mussels, lobster, fresh local salmon, often steamed, grilled, or served as sashimi.
Pavlova: An iconic dessert with a crispy shell, soft and creamy inside, topped with fresh cream and fruits.
New Zealand Wine: Known for Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Noir, with fruity flavors that pair perfectly with seafood or lamb.

Pinot Noir wine from New Zealand is very famous on the global wine map.

5. Suggested Itinerary and Costs for South Island, New Zealand (Reference)

	Schedule	Expense
Day 1	Buy plane tickets to Auckland	About 30 - 50 million VND/round trip ticket
Moving to Christchurch	About 1,500,000 VND
Rest in Christchurch Can explore the city at night	About 1,000,000 - 2,000,000 VND/night
Day 2	Stroll in Christchurch Botanic Gardens, Cathedral Square	Free of charge
Boat ride on the Avon River	About 42 NZD (650,000 VND)
Visit Canterbury Museum	About 20 - 30 NZD (200,000 - 340,000 VND)
Day 3	Lake Tekapo (travel time about 3 hours)	Car rental costs from 70 - 200 NZD/day depending on car type (equivalent to about 1,000,000 - more than 3,000,000 VND/day)
Join the night stargazing tour	about 150 - 200 NZD (VND 2,323,000 - VND 3,000,000)
Day 4	Travel to Queen Towns (travel time is about 3 hours)	Car rental costs from 70 - 200 NZD/day depending on car type (equivalent to about 1,000,000 - more than 3,000,000 VND/day)
Take the cable car up to Bob's Peak for a view	About 45 NZD (About 700,000 VND)
Participate in adventure activities (bungee jumping, jet boating...)	Price from 200 NZD (About 3,000,000 VND)
Day 5	Wanaka (travel time about 1 hour)	Car rental costs from 70 - 200 NZD/day depending on car type (equivalent to about 1,000,000 - more than 3,000,000 VND/day)
Explore Lake Wanaka and check-in at the lonely tree Wanaka	Free of charge
Hike Roy's Peak Track (if in good physical condition).	Free of charge
Day 6	Travel to Milford Sound (travel time approximately 4+ hours)	Car rental costs from 70 - 200 NZD/day depending on car type (equivalent to about 1,000,000 - more than 3,000,000 VND/day)
Join a fjord cruise	About 100-200 NZD (About 1,500,000 - 3,000,000 VND)
Travel to Franz Josef Glacier (travel time about more than 8 hours)
Day 7	Tham gia tour Franz Josef Glacier	About 400-500 NZD (6,000,000 - 7,700,000 VND)
Travel to Christchurch or Auckland and catch your flight home.	About 30-50 million VND/round trip ticket

For a 7-day South Island New Zealand trip, your estimated budget would be around 50 million VND. The total costs include the following:

Flight: 30 - 50 million VND per person.
Visa: About 3 million VND per person.
Food: Around 500,000 - 1,000,000 VND per day.
Accommodation: 1,000,000 - 3,000,000 VND per night.
Transport & sightseeing: Depending on the destination

Additionally, it's recommended to prepare a contingency budget of 10,000,000 - 20,000,000 VND for unexpected expenses or souvenirs.

South Island, New Zealand, with its breathtaking natural wonders, will surely give you unforgettable memories. So why wait? Start planning your trip today!

Book your flight to New Zealand at Vietjet today and enjoy exciting offers.

For a budget-friendly trip, keep an eye on Vietjet's offers so you don’t miss out. New Zealand, with its beautiful nature, unique cuisine, and many memorable experiences, is waiting for you.

For the latest information on flights and schedules to New Zealand, check out Vietjet's official channels below: