Heading south? Here’s what to see and do! (Part 1)
Sep 8, 2022
With summer on the horizon, now’s a great time to get those summer roadies planned out. Here are some of our favourite spots in the South Island.
RoomMate Cabins top picks in Nelson and Marlborough
- It seems obvious but yes, Abel Tasman National Park is definitely worth the hype – accessible by walking, cruising or hiking, this is definitely something to check out. If you’re feeling super active, take a look at the Nelson Lakes National Park as well.
- Not feeling active? Cruise Marlborough Sounds and see incredible scenes and wildlife such as New Zealand’s very own little blue penguin.
- Experience the flavour of Marlborough with the taste of green-lipped muscles.
RoomMate Cabins top picks in the West Coast
- Punakaiki Pancake Rocks – the most visited attraction on the west coast and for good reason. These beautiful ancient limestone rocks are an important part of NZ history. For the best experience visit at high tide.
- Oparara Arches – take a trip through unspoiled native subtropical forest. With a cave system and unique limestone formations, there’s something for everyone.
- Hokitika Gorge – who doesn’t love turquoise waters? A short walk leads you to a lookout showcasing stunning views of the glacial river surrounded by beautiful Rimu tree forests.
RoomMate Cabins top picks in North Canterbury
- Kaikoura is great for marine life encounters, including dolphins, seals and whales. This makes this the perfect summer activity for all ages!
- Take a trip and discover Hanmer Springs, best known for its natural hot pools.
- Known for their pinot noir and Riesling, the Waipara wine valley is worth a visit if you consider yourself a wine lover or connoisseur.
RoomMate Cabins top picks in Christchurch, Canterbury
- Go star gazing in the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve – even in summer, this is still a once in a lifetime opportunity to see the stars like you’ve never seen them before, with more than 4,300 square kilometres of sky free from light pollution.
- Travel on the TranzAlpine Train through the Southern Alps – one of the most scenic train rides in the world. The trip is 4 hours one way or 9 hours return.
- Visit Akaroa and take a Black Cat Cruise to experience stunning and abundant marine wildlife. You can even swim with dolphins!
We hope these tips help guide you around our beautiful country. You might even find a few of our portable cabins along the way!
South Island Portable Cabins
We have RoomMate Cabins suppliers in all these regions, should you find yourself sticking around for a longer period. Our portable cabins, available for rent, are the perfect solution to adding some extra space at your place – whether it be for accommodation, a home office, a studio space – the options are endless!
Find some of our South Island portable cabin suppliers below, or click here to find your local supplier.