Perched on the edge of New Zealand’s second largest lake, the township of Te Anau is the main visitor base for Fiordland National Park. At the Department of Conservation Visitor Centre you can make plans to walk the Milford, Routeburn or Kepler Tracks. There are many places to stay, but you’d be wise to book ahead in the busy season. Restaurants are plentiful. Apart from hiking, popular local activities include lake cruising, kayaking and exploring the Te Ana-au Glowworm caves. The museum has a collection relevant to both the Maori and European history of the area. There’s also a wildlife park specialising in native birds.

The town of Twizel was purpose-built in the 1960s to provide a home for workers involved with the Upper Waitaki Power Scheme. Today it is a well-positioned base for mountain climbing, kayaking, mountain biking, skiing, horse trekking and hiking. The peaks and trails of Mount Cook National Park are just up the road. You can fish for salmon and trout in the local rivers, canals and lakes. If you don’t have any luck, call into the salmon farm and buy a fish - fresh or smoked. In summer Twizel’s population more than trebles, as holiday houses and camp grounds fill to capacity.

Milford Sound the settlement exists solely to look after travellers who come to see Milford Sound the fiord. Facilities and services are limited - you’ll find a café and a tavern. Most activity is centred around the wharf, because cruises on Milford Sound are hugely popular (food is available on board). Flightseeing and sea kayaking are two other ways to immerse yourself in the grandeur of huge peaks, waterfalls and sheer rock faces. At the underwater observatory, you can enjoy the unusual scenery than exists below the water. The Milford Track, which begins at the northern end of Lake Te Anau, finishes with a ferry trip from Sandfly Point to the Milford Sound wharf.

Christchurch presents colonial heritage. Grand architecture, historic homesteads and immaculate parks intermingle with the technology and style of modern life.

The South Island’s largest city, Christchurch is an entertaining mixture of refined lifestyle and cultural excitement. The tranquil Avon River meanders through the city, historic buildings house a lively arts community and restored trams make it easy for visitors to get around. The first four ships arrived from England to settle Christchurch in 1850, and their legacy lives on in the city’s grand heritage buildings and stately parks. Visit historic sites, museums and art galleries, and enjoy the highly developed restaurant scene. For an unforgettable scenic experience, travel up the Christchurch gondola or go punting on the Avon River.