Canterbury is the South Island’s most populated region, with most of the population in the city of Christchurch. The second largest city on the South Island is Dunedin, home to the University of Otago—New Zealand’s oldest University. But, in Otago, Dunedin is overshadowed by Queenstown, touted as the Adventure Capital of the World and home to jet boating, bungee jumping, tramping (hiking), mountaineering and many more activities.

Outdoor, adventure tourism introduces visitors to Te Wahipounamu-South West New Zealand World Heritage Area, which covers four national parks and straddles the borders of the Southland, Otago, Canterbury, and the West Coast. Nelson-Marlborough offers similar retreats from city life.