Roaming New Zealand’s South Island

If you want to experience true wilderness, there may be no better destination than New Zealand’s South Island. Where mountains, forests and coastlines collide, you can get your first taste of exploration with a Roaming Guide.

Covering the entire Canterbury area on the east coast, you’re able to pretty much go anywhere, which is fortunate, as there’s so much to see. Insanely beautiful, Canterbury covers about a quarter of the South Island and invites you to take on alpine hiking, coastline touring and mountain climbing. Some of the most untouched places in the entire country, you may feel a million miles away from the commotion of the city, but this area of natural beauty is so close to Christchurch that it’s perfect for a day tour or overnight trip. Whether you’re looking to go for a walk and breathe in some fresh mountain air or embark on a four-day expedition into wilderness terrain, these tours are suited to anyone that can put one foot in front of the other.

Not only does the natural beauty of the region feel as if it has bloomed just for your visit, you’re also treated to a tour that’s tailor-made to suit you. Groups are not big – in fact you may find that you have your guide all to yourself – and so the trip is tailored to your own wants and needs. Want to learn about the history of where you’re treading? Or keen to spot native birds like the Kea, Tomtit and Tui? How about meeting the famous fur seals on the Kaikoura coastline?

Whatever your reason for exploration, Roaming Guides can make it happen. There’s also an incredible flexibility on where to start and finish your tour. The most common option is to begin and end in Christchurch, but you could also have transfers from the smaller towns of Ashburton or Rangiora, or take the Trans Alpine Train through to Arthurs Pass, a world-class train that takes you through the mountains. Upon arrival, you may be lucky enough to see the snow falling on the peaks around you – always awe-inspiring.

When your tour comes to an end and you’ve fallen head over heels in love with the South Island, you can continue your journey on the Trans Alpine Train to the west coast to see the rugged beauty where sub-tropical jungle meets bright white glaciers. It’s also recommended that you visit the stunning coastal French village of Akaroa, another location you can be dropped off in and spend the night. When you need to refuel, head into Christchurch for a good wholesome burger at Burgers And Beers on Cranford Street, or enjoy a sophisticated, fresh meal at Pomeroys on Kilmore, an old school pub with a large selection of wine and beer.

For a small tour with big features, enquire about exploring the South Island with www.roamingguides.com today.

Your Guide

While traversing the wilderness of the Canterbury region may be challenging at times, you know you’re in safe hands with your Roaming Guide, Anna Brooke. Not only does she know the area like the sole of her walking boots, she has been a lieutenant in the New Zealand Defence Force and a police officer in Alice Springs, Northern Territory, so she’s well suited to any adventure. With a high understanding of risk management, she can ensure that you have a great time while knowing the potential dangers of an environment like that of the South Island.