New Zealand Guide
The Central South Island
The Central South Island is one of the most varied and visually stunning areas in New Zealand, with extensive pasturelands, dense native forests and a history rich in tales of human endeavour. The region's defining feature is the icy, white sawtooth ridge of the Southern Alps that forms the South Island's central north– south spine and peaks at New Zealand's loftiest summit, 3754-metre Aoraki Mount Cook. A logistical nightmare for Maori and European settlers, the region is typical pioneer country, and the communities themselves are simple places, tinged with the toughness and idiosyncrasies of the early settlers.
Highlights
1 Hot springs Soak your bones at the resort of Hanmer Springs.
2 Arthur's Pass Hiking here provides a jaw-dropping insight into a uniquely beautiful landscape populated by indigenous plants and animals.
3 Skiing The Central South Island offers some of the country's best, most reasonably priced and least-crowded skiing. Mount Hutt is a great starting point.
4 Rafting the Rangitata Raft some of the best and bounciest white water in the country on rafting trips from Peel Forest, or as a day-trip from Christchurch.
5 Lake Tekapo These mountain-backed blue waters are best appreciated from the Church of the Good Shepherd.
6 Aoraki Mount Cook The short day-walks around Mount Cook repay the effort of some steep climbs, with views over alpine mountains, glaciers and lakes.
7 Gliding Experience the thrill of silent flying in this gliders' paradise.