Majestic mountains, landscapes, fjords and glaciers are what make New Zealand’s South Island –Te Waipounamu – a dream destination for most travelers. Its picture-perfect landscapes that far exceed postcard depictions beckon travelers who may be more familiar with attractions of the North Island – and there are many – to head south and experience New Zealand anew.
MANILA, Philippines — More than a place for appreciating nature’s beauty, however, the South Island is also where a unique form of history and culture can be experienced. Age-old landmarks and a literary ambience are what await tourists who opt to take a detour from the popular Queenstown.
Christchurch, currently in the news because of a tragic mosque attack but even more so for the response of its residents in embracing neighbors of all faiths in the name of peace, is an Instagrammer’s dream. Despite a devastating earthquake years ago, the city has risen in a manner that proves the indomitable spirit of the city and, indeed, the country.
The South Island hosts the purest natural landscapes you’ll ever see.
The city is filled with artsy corners – murals, unconventionally designed landmarks and cafés. Visitors can immerse in what is touted as the 3C’s of Christchurch – cathedral, culture and coffee. This largest city of the South Island also has an English feel, with double-decker buses and vintage bicycles meandering along the city streets.
A trip to the second largest city of the South Island, Dunedin, transports you to the Victorian and Edwardian eras, with its well-preserved Gothic-style landmarks. Dubbed as the Edinburgh of the South, Dunedin is home to New Zealand’s only castle – the Larnach Castle which traces its origins back to the 19th century and a representation of the city’s Scottish influence. Visitors can not only bask in the castle’s grandeur when making a trip to the city but also should not miss the chance to see the most lavish Gingerbread House, the Dunedin Railway Station. An eye-popping wonder, the Gothic-style edifice exudes a dramatic vibe with its intricate details, making it the perfect backdrop for that Instagram photo.
Dig into the famous Bluff oysters, as fresh as they come.
Dunedin is a city that has hosted and celebrated writers and artists since the 19th century, culminating in its being awarded the UNESCO City of Literature status in 2014.
Year-round literary events await discerning artists and writers, but notable among these are the NZ music month in May and the New Zealand Poetry Day in August.
The city’s rich literary environment makes it particularly conducive for students, and comes as no surprise that it’s also known as a university city.
The Dunedin Railway Station is the perfect backdrop for photos.
Unique to New Zealand is its abundance of mouthwatering oysters, due to its coastal geographic location. This aquatic delicacy can be found in almost every corner of the country, but after historic Dunedin, take a trip further down south and you’ll taste the freshest of the fresh in the town of Bluff.
What sets the Bluff oysters apart from the widely-available Pacific oysters are their perfect combination of brininess and creaminess, best enjoyed with a dash of lemon, paired with your favorite sauvignon blanc.
Christchurch is filled with corners of quaint shops and cafés.
Demand for the shellfish is extremely high, with locals finding themselves flocking to this southernmost city from March to August, when they are in season. The Bluff Oyster and Food Festival, which takes place annually in May, is the highlight of this season as guests are treated to live music, eating competitions and street stalls.
New Zealand is packed with destinations suited for every type of traveler, be it the nature explorer, culture indulger or the urban adventurer. As with the North Island, the South Island has inviting charms that should be part of your itinerary when you visit the Land of the Long White Cloud.