Top Active Leisure & Sport Spots in Southland

Definitely pack snacks! I brought a few energy bars, but I wish I'd had more. The views are so stunning you'll want to stop often, and having some food handy will save you time and money instead of buying at the cafes.

I suggest starting the trek early, like around 7 AM. The morning light hitting the mountains is gorgeous, and you'll avoid the crowds that show up later in the day. Plus, you can enjoy the trails at your own pace.

Don’t forget about the weather. It changes fast. I thought I’d be fine with a light jacket, but ended up drenched. Bringing a good waterproof coat is key to staying comfy and happy during your hike.

I found the info center super helpful for tips on what to do. I wasted some time wandering around cluelessly, but they gave me a map and suggestions that really enriched my visit.

Check the weather forecast closely before you go. It can change rapidly, and I found myself caught in the rain with no waterproof gear. Better safe than sorry!

Pack your own food and snacks instead of relying on huts. You'll save money and have better fuel for your trek! I regret underestimating how hungry I’d be out there.

take a dip at the heaphy river! it's refreshing after a long hike. don’t forget your swimsuit; i made that mistake, and it looked too inviting to resist!

If you’re into photography, I suggest starting around 7 am. The light is just perfect then and you might catch some stunning morning mist in the valleys!

I recommend checking the weather beforehand. We got caught in unexpected rain and it made the trails slippery. I wished I’d brought a raincoat instead of my light jacket.

Make sure you pack plenty of snackz. I ran out of energy bars halfway through and really regretted it. Those extra bites really make a difference especially on the tougher sections

I think it's worth taking the water taxi back instead of hiking both ways. It’ll give you a different perspective of the coastline and save you some time.

My advice is to wear sturdy hiking shoes. I wore some old sneakers, and my feet were killing me by the end – the trails can get rocky!

I suggest starting your hike early, like around 7 AM, to beat the crowds and soak in the sunrise views. You'll thank me later when it's quieter!

if you're looking to save some cash, consider bringing your own lunch instead of buying it at the cafés; the views are way better with a packed picnic.

My advice is to pack a light jacket, even if it seems warm. The helicopter gets chilly at altitude, and trust me, you'll want to stay comfy during the ride!

I suggest booking your flight in the early morning, around 9 AM. We had stunning views with less cloud cover, and the lighting was just perfect for photos.

I recommend keeping an eye out for discounts or combo deals. We found a package that included the flight and a bus ride back which saved us a lot of money and hassle.