Top Reasons to Go

Top Reasons to Go

Bungy Jumping

Don't worry, New Zealanders aren't going to pressure you into jumping off a bridge with an elastic cord tied to your ankles. But if you have an overwhelming desire to bungy (the Kiwi spelling for "bungee"), this is the place to do it. The cost of the jump usually includes a "been there-done that" T-shirt and even a video of your daredevil act.

Fly-Fishing

The Southern Alps' lakes and rivers are some of the country's (and therefore, the world's) best fly-fishing spots -- and that's before you even consider the eye-popping scenery. The waters are so clear, half the challenge is hiding from your target. Plenty of lodges from Lake Wanaka to Queenstown offer guiding services and/or advice. Most guides follow the catch-and-release policy.

Hiking

South Island's southwestern wilderness areas are the stuff of legendary tramping. The Milford Track, the Kepler, the Routeburn, the Hollyford -- it doesn't get any better than these. The variety on these treks is astonishing; you'll see mountains, fjords, waterfalls, and rain forests. You'll need to plan ahead, though, as the DOC keeps a close eye on trail traffic. The upside is that, once on a track, you'll have the exhilarating sense of being alone in the wilderness.

Scenic Flights

With high mountain peaks, deep fiords, rambling glaciers, thick forest, and open tussock lands all in close proximity, a scenic flight in either a fixed-wing plane or helicopter is money well spent. If you think the Southern Alps are spectacular from the ground, wait until you see them from above!