Lonely Planet New Zealand's South Island

Lonely Planet's local travel experts reveal all you need to know to plan the trip of a lifetime in this latest edition of our guide to New Zealand's South Island.

Discover New Zealand's South Island's most popular experiences and best kept secrets from taking a trip on Akaroa Harbour to spot fur seals and endangered Hector's Dolphins; to wandering through native beech forest in Mount Aspiring National Park; and combining stargazing with a relaxing after-dark hot-pools experience at Tekapo Springs.

Build a trip to remember with Lonely Planet's New Zealand's South Island travel guide:

• Our classic guidebook format contains the most comprehensive level of information for planning multi-week trips
• All-new structure and design that's easy to use so you can navigate New Zealand's South Island effortlessly
• Exciting itineraries help you create your perfect adventure with suggestions for extended journeys, day trips, walking tours and activity-led excursions
• Expert local recommendations on eating, drinking, nightlife, shopping, accommodation, festivals, when to go and more
• Vibrant photography and maps including a pull-out map of New Zealand's South Island
• Get fresh takes on must-visit sights from Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park to Marlborough Sounds and Piopiotahi/Milford Sound 
• Essential information toolkit containing tips on arriving, transport, local etiquette, using money, LGBTIQ+ travel advice, useful words and phrases, accessibility and responsible travel
• Connect with South Island culture through stories that delve deep into local life, history and traditions
• Covers: Christchurch & Canterbury; Marlborough & Nelson; The West Coast; Queenstown, Wānaka & Central Otago; Dunedin, Waitaki & the Catlins; Fiordland & Southland

Create a trip that's uniquely yours and get to the heart of this extraordinary part of the world with Lonely Planet's New Zealand's South Island.