7 Must-Do Adventures on New Zealand's South Island: Our Epic Honeymoon Road Trip

Six months after our dream wedding, my husband and I were refreshed—physically and financially—and ready for the honeymoon we'd always envisioned.

We craved excitement, adventure, breathtaking nature, luxury, and world-class wine. New Zealand's remote allure, adventurous spirit, and burgeoning wine regions made it perfect for our 14-day indulgence. Scoring an Air New Zealand deal, we embarked on a 2,000-mile road trip around the South Island—roughly the size of California—in a vibrant green camper van, traversing the west and east coasts.

Here are the 7 essential adventures from our journey:

Kayak Milford Sound's Fiords at Sunset

After a scenic drive from Queenstown, we joined the Milford Mariner overnight cruise. At sunset in Milford Sound—glaciers-carved within Fiordland National Park, dubbed the 'eighth wonder of the world' by Rudyard Kipling—we kayaked from a sheltered cove.

Despite typical misty weather, clouds parted as we paddled beneath 4,000-foot cliffs, revealing a pink sunset over the peaks—a truly magical moment.

Hike Fox Glacier and Taste 7,000-Year-Old Ice

A highlight splurge: a helicopter to Fox Glacier for a guided hike through ice caves, tunnels, and crevasses. The ancient ice? Refreshingly cold, much like freezer cubes.

Savor New Zealand's World-Class Wines

Near Napa and Sonoma, we're wine enthusiasts, but New Zealand's regions exceeded expectations. Beyond sauvignon blanc and pinot noir, aromatic gems like gewürztraminer, riesling, and viognier shone. Rainy days led us to Central Otago—on the 45th parallel, akin to Bordeaux and Oregon's Willamette Valley.

We visited 15 wineries, favorites including Chard Farm, Brennan Wines, and Rippon in Central Otago; Cloudy Bay, Seresin, Hans Herzog, Giesen, and Rock Ferry in Marlborough (bike tours a must); and Pegasus Bay in Waipara Valley.

Marvel at Jaw-Dropping Scenery

Lord of the Rings fans know New Zealand's beauty, but driving Mt. Aspiring National Park, viewing massive waterfalls, or kayaking Abel Tasman's turquoise waters amid seal lions brings it alive.

Discover Charming Unexpected Towns

Wanaka surprised us with its iconic lone tree in a glassy lake, stunning wineries, and the grueling-yet-rewarding Roy's Peak hike. Kaikoura offered wildlife galore—100% whale sightings—and Nin's Bin for crayfish (lobster) and green-lipped mussels at breakfast.

Encounter Iconic Wildlife

Home to 1 million people and 30 million sheep—from farms to vineyards to peaks (yes, even on Roy's Peak). At Ohau Stream Waterfall near Kaikoura, seal pups played under falls. In Timaru, we waited hours for penguins; three waddled ashore, a heartwarming sight.

Embrace the Tourist Thrills

In Queenstown, the Skyline Gondola to Bob's Peak and luge descent delivered thrills and panoramic views—unmissable fun.

Travel Tip: We visited in New Zealand's fall (late April-early May), enjoying 40s-50s temps, fewer crowds at campsites, hikes, tastings, and B&Bs.

Next time: Yellow-eyed penguins in Dunedin, blue penguins in Oamaru; Queen Charlotte Track bike ride; Milford Track Great Walk.

Sample Itinerary (April 23-May 8, 2015):

• 2 nights Queenstown
• 1 night Milford Sound (overnight boat)
• 1 night Wanaka
• 1 night Fox Glacier
• 1 night Greymouth
• 1 night Abel Tasman
• 1 night Cable Bay
• 3 nights Blenheim B&B (Marlborough wines)
• 1 night Timaru
• 1 night Queenstown