The South Island

The South Island – Te Wai Pounamu

The South Island (in Maori called Te Wai Pounamu) is the larger of the two major islands of New Zealand (Aotearoa), the other being the more populous North Island. It is bordered to the north by Cook Strait, to the west by the Tasman Sea, to the south and east by thePacific Ocean. The territory of the South Island covers 151,215 square kilometres (58,384 sq mi) and is influenced by a temperate climate.

The South Island is sometimes called the “mainland”. While it has a 33% larger landmass than the North Island, only 24% of New Zealand’s population live in the South Island. In the early stages of European (Pakeha) settlement of the country, the South Island had the majority of the European population and wealth due to the 1860s gold rushes. The North Island population overtook the South in the early 20th century, with 56% of the population living in the North in 1911, and the drift north of people and businesses continued throughout the century.

Renowned for its natural beauty, the South Island is blessed with tranquil lakes, rugged mountains, wild rivers and lush forest. A massive mountain chain – the Southern Alps – runs down its spine, taking in the country’s highest peak, Aoraki/Mount Cook (3754 m). Fiordland is a key drawcard for visitors with its glacier-carved landscape of drowned river valleys and towering peaks.

The South Island boasts ten national parks – AbelTasman, Nelson Lakes, Kahurangi,Paparoa, Arthurs Pass, Westland, Mount Cook, Fiordland, Rakiura and Mount Aspiring. These majestic wilderness areas incorporate World Heritage Sites, fiords and glaciers, lakes, ski areas, rugged coastline, native forest, and world-class hiking tracks. The South Island’s largest city is Christchurch, known for its gracious parks and English character. Dunedin, with its Scottish heritage, is the second largest centre, and the country’s best-preserved Victorian city. The student population of Otago University adds to the lively atmosphere of the city.

When travelling the South Island we recommend the following places to stay:

Hokitika: The Shining Star

Hanmer Springs: Alpine Garden Motel

Kaikoura: Admiral Court Motel


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