A selection of the best photos of New Zealand.
Photos about: South island.
Looking for inspiration?
Don't hesitate to contact a Frogger Guide to ask your questions.
Watch the photos
×
- 100 photos
What is the nickname of the city?
- Queenstown
Queenstown is nicknamed the World capital of adventure. A nickname that is due to the countless extreme sports activities that are practiced there throughout the year.
Enlarge picture
Are new rocks being formed?
- Moeraki Boulders
The longer the cliff crumbles, the more boulders emerge.
Enlarge picture
What is caused by precipitation?
- Purakaunui falls
In regions where more than seven meters of rain fall each year, rivers produce spectacular waterfalls such as the Purakaunui falls.
Enlarge picture
Why is the color of the sand so original?
- Abel Tasman
The orange sand draws its color from iron oxide minerals. It is a unique hue in the country and it explains in part the success of the park.
Enlarge picture
Should we come in case of bad weather?
- Kaikoura Peninsula
The morning mist adds a fantastic note to the ragged coast of Kaikoura.
Enlarge picture
Should we be wary of time?
- Queenstown
The fine weather can turn into a storm very quickly. Fortunately, the reverse is equally true.
Enlarge picture
What souvenir to bring back from Kaikoura?
- Kaikoura Peninsula
Given the incredible variety of landscapes on the South Island of New Zealand, it is not uncommon to forget Kaikoura. Even if you are afraid of sea sickness, the peninsula offers stunning walks and a few surprises like the nursery of baby fur seals.
Enlarge picture
Are landscapes worth a visit?
- Pancake Rocks
The West Coast offers splendid panoramas.
Enlarge picture
How about the great walks?
- Mount Cook
Some hikes in the park are for mountaineers. Quality shelters can be booked through the Department of Conservation (DOC).
Enlarge picture
How to visit Wharariki Beach in New Zealand?
- Wharariki beach
Farewell Spit is a long sandy tongue at the northern tip of the South Island. A 2-hour hike takes you to Wharariki Beach.
Enlarge picture
What landscapes should not be missed?
- Wharariki beach
Wharariki beach is one of the most beautiful beaches in the country. In the early morning, the reflection of the rocks on the damp sand is remarkable.
Enlarge picture
What is the value of traveling in the spring or winter?
- Milford Sound
During the low season, the fjord regain its original calm, finally rid of the tourists hordes. The perfect opportunity to meet the sea lions with a kayak tour.
Enlarge picture
How is a hike in the Abel Tasman National Park?
- Abel Tasman
The Abel Tasman Coast Track runs along the coast. You can rest and bathe in lagoons with turquoise water.
Enlarge picture
Can we visit New Zealand without trying kayak?
- Abel Tasman
No one forces you to practice kayaking in New Zealand and no one will blame you afterwards. But if you want to approach animal species on reserves (such as Tonga Island), you may consider kayaking.
Enlarge picture
When can we enjoy a clear weather?
- Lake Matheson
The chances of enjoying clear weather are greater in the early morning. But do not expect a miracle if the forecast is bad.
Enlarge picture
Does the suspended bridge give vertigo?
- Mount Cook
Rest assured, this suspension bridge is safe. But nothing prevents you from taking yourself for Indiana Jones, or for Short Round ...
Enlarge picture
In what country was the bungee jump invented?
- Queenstown
It is a national pride: the bungee jumping was invented in New Zealand by A.J. Hackett.
Enlarge picture
Can one approach the penguins?
- Dunedin
The penguin is a fearful animal that must be observed at a distance. Discrete observations points were installed to allow you to watched penguins when they go to the beach.
Enlarge picture
What is special about the Kaikoura Peninsula?
- Kaikoura Peninsula
The originality of the Kaikoura peninsula lies in the proximity between the sea and the mountain. It is rare to be able to combine these two landscapes on the same photograph. With the presence of whales offshore, one understands why this small village welcomes one million visitors each year.
Enlarge picture
Can we visit Lake Manapouri power plant?
- Lake Manapouri
The tour to the Doubtful Sound includes a visit of the power station. The most interesting moment is the descent into the heart of the mountain.
Enlarge picture
Why do people come to this area?
- Pancake Rocks
There are so many good reasons to visit the West Coast, starting with the famous Pancake Rocks.
Enlarge picture
What extent does the glacier cover?
- Fox Glacier
The ice monster descends for 13 kilometers by crushing the rock in its path.
Enlarge picture
Can we swim near the deserted beaches?
- Dunedin
The deserted beaches are very attractive for tourists. However, it is not advisable to bathe in the absence of swimmers.
Enlarge picture
Which tips for cycling in New Zealand?
- Queenstown
The mountain bike is perhaps great for racing, but nobody forces you to break records. Pedal at your own pace and take time to enjoy the scenery.
Enlarge picture
What is the nickname of the rock on the beach?
- Kaikoura Peninsula
The Sugar loaf is a rock formation that you can admire during the Kaikoura Peninsula Walkway. It is recommended not to try to climb it, because the ground is not safe because of the erosion. This does not prevent many travelers from doing it, alas!
Enlarge picture
Where is the boarding deck?
- Milford Sound
Many companies offer cruises. Even if the itineraries are very similar, make sure to check the schedule and the boarding deck so as not to be deceived.
Enlarge picture
What curiosity can be seen at Tinline Bay?
- Abel Tasman
The solitary tree of Tinline Bay grows on a rock isolated offshore. Difficult to find a more photogenic subject.
Enlarge picture
What is the largest university city in New Zealand?
- Dunedin
Founded by Scottish settlers, Dunedin was founded in 1848 as a tribute to the city of Edinburgh. Its name means "Odin on the hill" in the Gaelic language.
Enlarge picture
Should we equip ourselves for hiking at Lake Hook?
- Mount Cook
If the Hook Lake hike is accessible to beginners, you must have good walking shoes , and enough supplies to eat and to hydrate yourself because there are no shade areas all along the way.
Enlarge picture
Can we have lunch near Rippon Vineyard?
- Wanaka
There are picnic tables at Rippon Vineyard and you can order cheese platters with a good bottle on site.
Enlarge picture
What is the distance between New Zealand and the South Pole?
- Catlins
If you descend to the southern tip of New Zealand, you will be only 4803 km from the South Pole. An even smaller distance if you set course on Stewart Island which also belongs to New Zealand.
Enlarge picture
What is the most beautiful landscape on the South Island of New Zealand?
- Milford Sound
For many travelers, the Milford Sound offers the most remarkable panorama of the country.
Enlarge picture
What is the average length of a great hike?
- Routeburn Track
Hiking is not a race against time and you are not here to establish records. Take breaks, admire the landscape and give way to people walking faster than you on the trail.
Enlarge picture
What type of terrain will I be walking on?
- Abel Tasman
The Abel Tasman Coast Track trail alternates between forest paths and sandy beaches of fine sand. The whole route covers 55 km on 3 to 5 days of hiking!
Enlarge picture
Have you ever taken a cruise on a fjord?
- Milford Sound
The cruise lasts between two and three hours depending on the company. The route consists of going up the fjord to the Tasman Sea. Colonies of sea lions, dolphins and numerous waterfalls and cascades are opportunities to take unforgettable photos.
Enlarge picture
Is this tip used in the cinema?
- Wanaka
This method of optical illusion is far from being a simple trick to entertain children. The technique was used by Peter Jackson in the Lord of the Rings. Actors who play Hobbits are actually adults.
Enlarge picture
How does a jetboat outing with Wanaka River Journey take place?
- Wanaka
Wanaka River Journey's jetboat trips also showcase some of the landscapes that have served as shooting location for the Lord of the Rings.
Enlarge picture
What is the difference between kayaking and hiking?
- Abel Tasman
One could summarize the difference between kayaking and hiking to the fact that one of these activities tires the arms while the other tires the legs, but these are mainly experiments where the view on nature is totally different.
Enlarge picture
What is the largest glacier in New Zealand?
- Mount Cook
If it is less famous than the Fox or the Franz Joseph, the Tasman glacier is however the largest in the whole country.
Enlarge picture
Where does the cruise on the fiord end?
- Doubtful Sound
The ship ascends the fiord to the Tasman Sea where it turns back to its starting point.
Enlarge picture
Is the glacier tour free?
- Fox Glacier
You can reach the front of the glacier and enjoy the view without spending a penny. But the visit of the glacier requires to book a mountain guide.
Enlarge picture
What is the highest peak in New Zealand?
- Mount Cook
Mt Aoraki / Cook is the highest peak in New Zealand. It is located on the South Island and culminates at 3754 meters.
Enlarge picture
Are there boulders anywhere else on Earth?
- Moeraki Boulders
The blueberry rocks that were photographed on the planet Mars are strangely similar to the Moeraki Boulders.
Enlarge picture
Can snowboarding be practiced in New Zealand?
- Wanaka
Surfers are welcome in the mountain resorts of New Zealand, and special trails are provided to accommodate them.
Enlarge picture
How to explain the formation of the Pancake Rocks?
- Pancake Rocks
The formation of the Pancake Rocks is linked to the history of the Earth. Each layer marks an era with its variations of climate.
Enlarge picture
What beach to organize a kayak trip?
- Abel Tasman
It is not the sandy beaches that are lacking in New Zealand, and you can practice many beach activities, starting with kayaking.
Enlarge picture
Where were the films of Peter Jackson?
- Wanaka
Because the panoramas stretch as far as the eye can see without the slightest trace of modernity, many footage of Peter Jackson's trilogies has been filmed in the area.
Enlarge picture
When can I learn kayaking in New Zealand?
- Abel Tasman
Most vacationers perform their kayak initiation in the Abel Tasman National Park with an experienced guide who teaches them the basic maneuvers.
Enlarge picture
What is the ideal moment to admire the reflection?
- Lake Matheson
The best way to observe the reflection is to come to Reflection Island just before sunrise.
Enlarge picture
How to visit the top of the glacier?
- Fox Glacier
It is possible to be dropped by helicopter at the top. The overflight of the area is impressive and allows to start the visit at an altitude where the ice is not soiled by the debris of the forest.
Enlarge picture
Where can I find restaurants in town?
- Queenstown
The Mall is Queenstown's shopping district, but the most interesting restaurants are located at the old docks.
Enlarge picture
Can we visit the country all year round?
- Queenstown
Winter coincides with the opening of mountain resorts. Queenstown is not only close to the slopes but has enough activities and restaurants to satisfy all your desires.
Enlarge picture
Does the jetboat wet the passengers?
- Queenstown
You should expect to get a little water in the face during a jet boat ride, but that's part of the fun somehow.
Enlarge picture
Can we save when we rent a motorhome?
- Abel Tasman
The motorhome only help to save money if you prepare your trip in advance. Otherwise, you will have to pay for parking in the paying campsites all the time. Add the price of transport from one island to the other by Ferry, and you can quickly find yourself spending more money than expected.
Enlarge picture
Cruise or kayak at the Milford Sound?
- Milford Sound
Cruise ships allow to admire the beauty of the fiord, but they are loud and impersonal. For a more authentic experience, it is best to book a guided kayak tour.
Enlarge picture
How were the rocks of Punakaiki formed?
- Pancake Rocks
Wind and rain have sculpted the rock for millions of years, giving it the appearance of a pile of pancakes.
Enlarge picture
Which team plays its matches at the Westpac Stadium?
- Wellington
The Westpac Stadium is home to Wellington's Hurricanes, one of the top teams in Super Rugby. The stadium also receives major international encounters when the Eden Park of Auckland is not available.
Enlarge picture
Can we visit the national park without a guide?
- Pancake Rocks
The Paparoa National Park can be visited without a guide. However, recent maps must be requested from the iSite, as the paths are often modified according to the weather.
Enlarge picture
Which navigator discovered the Doubtful Sound?
- Doubtful Sound
Captain Cook was the first Westerner to have discovered Doubtful Sound in 1770. He would not dare venture inside, however, and would only map the access to the Tasman Sea.
Enlarge picture
Is the observation platform accessible to everyone?
- Pancake Rocks
A small staircase sculpted in the rock makes it possible to reach the observation deck. Unfortunately, this is the only part of the route that is not accessible to people with disabilities.
Enlarge picture
Why is New Zealand wine so famous?
- Marlborough
New Zealand's vineyards take advantage of the richness of the volcanic soil. Some vines give an excellent white sauvignon.
Enlarge picture
From where does the diamond lake bear its name?
- Wanaka
The Diamond Lake is located halfway up the hike to the top of Rocky Mountain.
Enlarge picture
Is it possible to get soaked by the waves?
- Pancake Rocks
The risk of being wet if not completely soaked is high. It is imperative to dress with waterproof clothing or to keep your distance.
Enlarge picture
What are the cafés frequented by students?
- Dunedin
Some buildings have a nice retro charm. New Zealanders' passion for old cars gives them the opportunity to take sensational pictures.
Enlarge picture
Can we get to the beach?
- Pancake Rocks
The beach is accessible at low tide. It is an opportunity to admire the rocks from another angle.
Enlarge picture
Why should you visit Paparoa National Park?
- Pancake Rocks
Go up the Porari river by canoe to reach a spectacular canyon.
Enlarge picture
Does Paparoa National Park justify the visit
- Pancake Rocks
The Paparoa National Park offers much more interest than the Pancake Rocks, but it is still unknown to the majority of travelers. Its landscape evokes immediately the film Jurrasic Park.
Enlarge picture
Which route can be used in kayaking?
- Abel Tasman
Water taxis drop you off and get you back where you want, and you are free to define your own itinerary, even if there are a few time constraints if you do not camp in the park and you have to reach your hotel by late afternoon.
Enlarge picture
What is the point of visiting the beaches of the region?
- Abel Tasman
The beaches have very photogenic rocks.
Enlarge picture
What Christchurch looked like before the earthquake.
- Christchurch
Before the 2011 earthquake disrupted the lives of its people, Christchurch was the most beautiful city on the South Island.
Enlarge picture
Why paragliding in New Zealand?
- Queenstown
Of all the landscapes that can be seen in New Zealand, it is undoubtedly the mountain reliefs that are the most spectacular.
Enlarge picture
Is the reflection of the mountains on the surface of the lake perfect?
- Lake Matheson
When the reflection of the lake is perfect, it is difficult to distinguish whether the picture is upside down or not.
Enlarge picture
What spectacular phenomenon happens on the side of the cliffs?
- Milford Sound
The trees grow practically vertically on the cliffs. Avalanches of trees are not uncommon and you may have the opportunity to witness this impressive phenomenon.
Enlarge picture
Reviews of Routeburn Track
- Routeburn Track
The Routeburn Track allows you to reach Milford Sound by crossing the mountains. But keep in mind that this 2-3 day hike is not a loop!
Enlarge picture
Is there a scientific explanation?
- Moeraki Boulders
The most probable scientific hypothesis presupposes that they are deposits of calcite solidified around fossilized mud nuclei.
Enlarge picture
What is the ideal season to visit Mount Cook?
- Mount Cook
The ideal season to walk on the slopes of Mount Cook is the spring. The vegetation is back and the valley is covered with flowers.
Enlarge picture
What did the region look like thousands of years ago?
- Doubtful Sound
The area was once covered with glaciers. Unlike its name, the Doubtful is not a Sound but a Fjord.
Enlarge picture
What is the origin of the lake and the mountains?
- Wanaka
The whole area was once covered with glaciers. Over the millennia, they sculpted the mountains and gave birth to the lake.
Enlarge picture
What is the origin of Lake Wakatipu in the Maori legend?
- Queenstown
In Maori legend, Lake Wakatipu was formed by the body of a giant burned during his sleep. The oscillation of the level of the lake would be due to the beating of the heart of the giant still alive!
Enlarge picture
Which itinerary for this walk?
- Lake Matheson
The hiking map is at the beginning of the excursion. Impossible to get lost, just stay on the trail to go around the lake.
Enlarge picture
How long is the Pancake Rocks Drive?
- Pancake Rocks
It takes just 15 minutes to walk to the Pancake Rocks. The path is very well maintained, but you will have to follow the safety instructions when approaching the shore.
Enlarge picture
What are the dangers of hiking in the mountains?
- Nelson
As New Zealand's weather is subject to sudden changes, the entire landscape may be plunged into the fog. The traveler who is not equipped and who has not monitored the weather the day before is exposed to the risk of making a bad fall.
Enlarge picture
Where does the ride of Tunnel Beach Walkway take you?
- Dunedin
Tunnel Beach Walkway is 7 km south of the city. It is an easy hike that leads to a beach via a tunnel dug into the rock with dynamite!
Enlarge picture
Where to taste lobsters at a reduced price?
- Kaikoura Peninsula
If you like lobsters, you also know that it is an overwhelming delight. Kaikoura meaning "lobster meal" in Maori, you will not be surprised to find them at half price at the Kaikoura Seafood BBQ.
Enlarge picture
How is the guided tour completed?
- Fox Glacier
The excursion ends following the moraine that joins the valley up to the parking.
Enlarge picture
What is the advantage of Te Anau?
- Te Anau
Te Anau makes it possible to shorten travel time for excursions to Milford Sound and Doubtful Sound.
Enlarge picture
How to explain the temperature variations from one region to another?
- Wanaka
The mountains of Otago protect the valleys from the powerful West Coast wind. As a direct consequence, the temperatures of the cities of Queenstown or Wanaka are ideal in summer and even in autumn.
Enlarge picture
How does the Peninsula Walkway end?
- Kaikoura Peninsula
The Peninsula Walkway takes approximately 3 hours to complete and allows to admire the landscape and fur seals!
Enlarge picture
Why travel along the West Coast?
- Pancake Rocks
The West Coast of New Zealand is renowned for its sumptuous landscapes. The walk to the Pancake Rocks is a real delight.
Enlarge picture
What type of excursion can be made at Abel Tasman?
- Abel Tasman
The kayak allows to reach beaches that would certainly be accessible on foot, but after long walks. In other words, kayaking often allows you to see more during a brief stay.
Enlarge picture
Why is Fiordland so sparsely populated?
- Milford Sound
With a population density close to zero, the Fiordland is a wet region covered with impenetrable forests.
Enlarge picture
How many jaffas candies are poured during the chocolate festival?
- Dunedin
The Jaffa Race is an annual event held during the Chocolate Festival. To designate the winners of the raffle, 30,000 numbered jaffa candies are poured into Baldwin St. The first chocolates arrived designate the winners.
Enlarge picture
Can the kayak sink?
- Abel Tasman
Each kayak has waterproof compartments to store spare parts and valuable equipment such as cameras.
Enlarge picture
What is New Zealand's sunniest national park?
- Abel Tasman
Abel Tasman Park is New Zealand's sunniest national park, and its orange-colored sandy beaches attract vacationers from around the world.
Enlarge picture
Why do you have to climb Baldwin St?
- Dunedin
The summit of Baldwin Street offers a beautiful panorama. But it is above all the ascension that is rewarding. Enjoy the small fountain to refresh yourself.
Enlarge picture
What is the best time to visit Wanaka?
- Wanaka
Overall, the best time to visit Wanaka is in the fall.
Enlarge picture
Can we get closer to sea lions?
- Kaikoura Peninsula
If sea lion babies are curious and seem harmless, they can nevertheless bite. In addition, parents may not appreciate your visit ... Keep your distance!
Enlarge picture
Have all the caves been explored yet?
- Pancake Rocks
Marine caves are not always accessible at low tide. Some are still unexplored.
Enlarge picture
Why should we visit Wanaka in the Central Otago region?
- Wanaka
Wanaka has a mild climate and a breathtaking panorama. It is perhaps the most beautiful landscape in New Zealand.
Enlarge picture
What is the main tourist activity in the region?
- Kaikoura Peninsula
Whales are present throughout the year and 99% of the excursions allow to admire them. Prepare to photograph the giant tail when the whale plunges!
Enlarge picture
100 photos
Remember that these images are not copyright free. You may not reproduce images without permission by Frogger, even for non-commercial use.
- The whole country
- North Island
- South Island
- All locations
- Abel Tasman
- Akaroa
- Auckland
- Bay of Islands
- Cape Reinga
- Cathedral Cove
- Doubtful Sound
- Dunedin
- Fox Glacier
- Hobbiton
- Hot Water Beach
- Huka Falls
- Kaikoura Peninsula
- Lake Matheson
- Milford Sound
- Moeraki Boulders
- Mount Cook
- Pancake Rocks
- Queenstown
- Rotorua
- Tongariro Crossing
- Waitomo Caves
- Wanaka
- Wellington
- White Island
