Section
Weekend escapes, day trips and South Island travel ideas.
Mackenzie Pass and Hakataramea Pass were closed to all traffic on Tuesday as the severe South Island weather system spread travel disruption beyond the Kaikōura flooding emergency and into inland Canterbury routes.
Tue, 7 July 2026
Snow and flooding closed South Island routes through Otago, South Canterbury and the Mackenzie Basin before crews reopened most affected highways later in the day.
Mon, 6 July 2026
A new Ngai Tahu and DOC marine reserve network, Te Au Roa o Te Rakihouia, will protect more than 300 square kilometres of southeast coastal area when it comes into force on 1 July.
Tue, 23 June 2026
A bundled Akaroa winter weekend package valued at almost $1,200 shows how local accommodation, hospitality and wildlife operators are working together to keep Banks Peninsula visible outside peak summer.
Mon, 8 June 2026
Temperatures across the South Island have dropped sharply as June approaches, with the mountains accumulating their earliest snowfall in three years. For the tourism industry, it could not come soon enough.
Fri, 29 May 2026
Singapore Airlines and Air New Zealand are expanding their joint network, a move that could strengthen international connections for Kiwi travellers heading into Asia, Europe and beyond.
Wed, 27 May 2026
Air New Zealand has defended its new Christchurch-Perth route while regional communities continue to question flight reductions and rising travel costs.
Thu, 21 May 2026
The national carrier confirmed three new non-stop international routes from Christchurch Airport launching late 2026, using Boeing 787 Dreamliners — the largest expansion of the South Island's direct international connectivity in years.
Tue, 19 May 2026
A fatal crash involving Hong Kong tourists near Rakaia has renewed focus on visitor driving safety, South Island road conditions and how New Zealand communicates risk to international travellers.
Sun, 17 May 2026
Nelson's mayor has voiced disappointment over further Air New Zealand flight cuts, reflecting growing frustration in regional centres that depend on reliable air links for business, tourism and family travel.
Thu, 30 April 2026
A loose two-day plan combining food, gardens, the tram, the coast and a regional drive.
Mon, 26 January 2026
Three classic local escapes, each suited to a different kind of summer mood.
Sun, 11 January 2026
From Akaroa and Hanmer to Arthur's Pass, the region is built for short escapes.
Sun, 4 January 2026
From Hanmer Springs to Akaroa, the region is full of short-trip options.
Thu, 1 January 1970
The harbourside village continues to charm locals and visitors alike.
Tue, 30 December 1969
From Banks Peninsula loops to inland Mackenzie, here are some favourites.
Mon, 29 December 1969
Tourism providers say bookings are tracking well across the region.
Sat, 27 December 1969