Top 10 Self-guided Tours in South Island

Destination: Queenstown.
⭐Locally owned and operated – over 20 years of experience in local tourism. ⭐Friendliest team in Queenstown - we are always here to help! ⭐ We only do Trek™ anf Giant™ bikes as standard. ⭐Door-to-door options for direct booking only ⭐Ride arguably the best bike trails in New Zealand ⭐Perfect for the easy rider - Minimal hills, wide gravel trails, Easy Navigation. 4-hour ride option ⭐Knowledgable, friendly guides ⭐Bikes are serviced and checked daily.
Known For: Queenstown Rentals, Queenstown Self-guided Tours, Queenstown Zombie Slice, Queenstown Bike Rentals, Queenstown Transportation Rentals, Queenstown Zombie.

Destination: South Island.
Located at the heart of the Queenstown Trail Better By Bike has some amazing ride options beginning right outside our location - literally! Ride completely at your own pace as you make your way through some of the most stunning and photographed scenery in New Zealand with breath taking scenery around every corner! Kiwi owned and operated we’d love to show you our backyard and introduce you to the best trails around. Thee trails once known only to locals and enthusiasts are now accessible to you! - Every season we provide a fleet of new season bikes to choose from. We’ll make sure you’re completely kitted out before you leave with a great bike, easy to read maps and the best advice. -Our bikes brand is Specialized and we have both Hard Tail Mountain Bike and Cruiser options available. - Our expert staff will pair you with your perfect bike, match you to the best trail and get you out on the trail quick-smart!
Known For: South Island Rentals, South Island Bike Rentals, South Island Self-guided Tours, South Island Transportation Rentals, South Island Mountain Bike Tours.
Duration: Around 8 hours.

Destination: Wanaka.
Self-guided kayak trip with one-way transport—explore Lake Wānaka's shoreline on your own with gear, tips, and a custom route provided. Know what you’re doing and just need the gear? Explore Lake Wanaka on this self-guided kayaking activity! We’ll get you and the gear out to where you start and your Mission is to paddle it all back! Head off with your buddy, partner or group of friends and enjoy a morning of paddling on Lake Wanaka. We’ll arm you with a kayak, safety equipment and a map, get you out on the lake and your mission is to paddle back to Wanaka Township. Paddle the shoreline, explore islands, jump off jetties, or stop for a picnic - it’s your adventure, your way.
Known For: Wanaka Rentals, Wanaka Water Equipment Rentals, Wanaka Boat Rentals, Wanaka Self-guided Tours, Wanaka Small Group.
Duration: Around 3 hours.

Destination: Dunedin & The Otago Peninsula.
Locally owned and operated business, comfortable step-through bikes designed for our amazing city cycle network, explore our amazing peninsular powered by our electric! Collect bikes anytime between 7:30am and 7:30pm (great flexibility rock on up when you want) from our self-serving (kiosk) at city location (10 Harrow Street) which is central to the City CBD and also located at the start of Harbour Cycle Loop, positioned to go either way (down Portobello direction or Port Chalmers).
Known For: Dunedin & The Otago Peninsula Rentals, Dunedin & The Otago Peninsula Bike Rentals, Dunedin & The Otago Peninsula Self-guided Tours, Dunedin & The Otago Peninsula Transportation Rentals.
Duration: Around 1 day.

Destination: Queenstown.
This is the perfect introduction to Central Otago’s landscapes, history, and hospitality — all within a few relaxed hours. The Clyde River Trail Loop blends riverbank riding, iconic heritage trails, and easy access to local cafés, pubs, and vineyards. With seamless support, premium e-bikes, and real local insight, we take care of everything behind the scenes so you can simply enjoy the ride. Whether it’s a laid-back family adventure or a casual escape from Queenstown, this one-day loop is a local favourite for a reason.
Known For: Queenstown Rentals, Queenstown Self-guided Tours, Queenstown Transportation Rentals, Queenstown Zombie, Queenstown Bike Rentals.

Destination: South Island.
Explore the stunning Queenstown Trails with this convenient e-bike rental and shuttle service. Perfect for families and adventure seekers, ride approximately 38km from Kinross Winery to Arthurs Point, enjoying scenic views along the Gibbston and Arrow Rivers. The rental includes a safety briefing, helmet, and bike accessories, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience. Set your own pace and discover local gems along the way. - 4-hour bike rental with approximately 2.5 hours of riding time, plus an additional 30mins of shuttle time - Includes e-bike hire, helmet, lock, and a one-way shuttle - Family-friendly e-bike options available for children aged 8 and up - Start and finish at the scenic Kinross Winery
Known For: South Island Food & Drink, South Island New Product, South Island Self-guided Tours, South Island Rentals.
Duration: Around 5 hours.

Destination: Marahau.
Spend 2 blissful days on the water exploring the Astrolabe and Anchorage area. Experience what is truly magical about the Abel Tasman – spend a stunning night camping in one of the secluded beach-side campsites.
Known For: Marahau Boat Rentals, Marahau Self-guided Tours, Marahau Water Equipment Rentals, Marahau Rentals.
Duration: Around 2 days.

Destination: Queenstown.
A self-drive adventure awaits in Queenstown, where culinary exploration meets playful riddle-solving. Spend 4-5 hours discovering local flavors while gathering picnic delights from artisanal spots. Kick off your journey with a warm beverage and a gourmet picnic basket, then embark on a scavenger hunt through scenic lakeside views and charming boutiques. Conclude your day at a picturesque picnic spot, where surprise activities and tastings await, making this experience perfect for couples, friends, or families looking to savor the region’s hidden gems.
Known For: Queenstown Restaurants, Queenstown Dining Experiences, Queenstown Self-guided Tours, Queenstown Scavenger Hunts, Queenstown Food & Drink, Queenstown Hiking Tours, Queenstown Wine Tastings, Queenstown Fun & Games.
Duration: Around 4 hours and a half.

Destination: Marahau.
From Marahau to Totaranui and return – it’s an adventure! Spend three days in the stunning Abel Tasman. The first two days see you kayaking from Marahau through to Onetahuti and then the third walking from Onetahuti to Totaranui before returning back to Marahau on a water taxi.
Known For: Marahau Boat Rentals, Marahau Self-guided Tours, Marahau Rentals, Marahau Water Equipment Rentals.
Duration: Around 3 days.

Destination: Nelson.
Experience the thrill of Nelson’s renowned trails with a Half-Day Electric Mountain Bike Rental. Ideal for both beginners and advanced riders, this rental features premium Mondraker eMTBs equipped with full power Bosch motors and large batteries, allowing you to navigate diverse terrains comfortably. Enjoy 4 hours of riding at your own pace, exploring trails like Codgers or the Coppermine Trail while benefiting from custom bike fittings tailored to your preferences. - Choose between morning or afternoon sessions to fit your schedule - Includes a complimentary helmet, digital trail map, and personalized setup (including pedal choice and brake-side) - Suitable for individuals and groups, with expert trail advice available - Explore over 400 km of trails designed for all skill levels - Upgrade your experience by adding a qualified and experienced mountain bike Coach or Guide
Known For: Nelson Rentals, Nelson Bike Rentals, Nelson Extreme Sports, Nelson Self-guided Tours, Nelson Transportation Rentals, Nelson Mountain Bike Tours, Nelson New Product.
Duration: Around 4 hours.