The South Island’s untamed west coast stretches like a dramatic frontier, a place where rainforests meet glaciers and mountains plunge straight into the ocean.  Wind-swept beaches strewn with driftwood gaze across the Tasman Sea, and snow-capped peaks hide amongst the clouds.  At Franz Josef and Fox glaciers, deep ice spills down from alpine summits into lush rainforest, a wonderful collision of ecosystems, and at Punakaiki’s pancake rocks, the ocean roars up through the stacked limestone with the incoming tide.  Small coastal towns, such as Hokitika and Westport, offer a glimpse into New Zealand’s gold rush history and proud local culture. The West Coast is also home to rare wildlife, including the elusive great spotted kiwi and Hector’s dolphins.

Further south lies Fiordland, part of the Te Wahipounamu World Heritage Area, famed for its deep fjords, towering peaks and cascading waterfalls. Rain falls often here, adding to the magic as waterfalls multiply and native forests glisten.  Milford Sound and Doubtful Sound are the most visited fiords, offering breathtaking views and abundant marine life.  Milford Sound is accessible by road, boat and air, and home to iconic Mitre Peak, whilst Doubtful Sound is expansive and offers a deeper sense of remoteness and tranquillity. Fiordland is a haven for hikers, particularly those tackling the renowned Milford, Routeburn and Kepler Tracks.