Discover the stunning waterways of Deep South with Koru Scenic Tours, offering an eco-friendly, wildlife-rich experience. Perfect for a half-day adventure or nature-focused outing, their trips bring you face-to-face with the region’s aquatic ecosystems.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–4 hours
Fitness Level
All fitness levels, comfortable sitting and minimal movement needed
Wildlife
History
The region's waterways have been vital for local communities for centuries, supporting both commerce and sustenance.
Conservation
Koru Scenic Tours emphasizes minimal environmental impact, encouraging responsible wildlife viewing and habitat preservation.
Koru Scenic Tours
Discover the stunning waterways of Deep South with Koru Scenic Tours, offering an eco-friendly, wildlife-rich experience. Perfect for a half-day adventure or nature-focused outing, their trips bring you face-to-face with the region’s aquatic ecosystems.
Koru Scenic Tours is a New Zealand tour operator that offers scenic trips across the South Island.
The company runs curated routes to iconic locations including Aoraki / Mt Cook, Milford Sound, Kaikoura, Akaroa Harbour, Arthurs Pass, Fiordland and Nelson Lakes. Featured on The Adventure Collective, Koru Scenic Tours highlights coastal harbours, alpine passes, glacial lakes and rugged west coast scenery. Tours span a variety of itineraries listed under its name, such as Aoraki Mt Cook, Aoraki Mt Cook Plus, Milford Sound Special, Fiordland Fantasy, Kaikoura and Kaikoura Plus, Akaroa Harbour and Akaroa Harbour Plus, and the South Island Big Loop.
Koru Scenic Tours describes routes that connect harbours, high country, river gorges and mountain passes. Sample trips in the catalogue include Lakes and Gorges, MacKenzie Magic, Central Otago Gold, Lewis Pass - Hanmer Springs, Porters Pass and Lees Valley. The operator also lists shorter harbour-focused options like Lyttelton Harbour/Whakaraupo and Akaroa Harbour, alongside regional samplers including West Coast Sampler and Top of the South.
Information about departures, booking, group size and exact itineraries is available through the operator's published trip listings. Koru Scenic Tours presents clear trip names and route focuses that help travellers choose coastal, alpine or multi-region experiences. Being featured on The Adventure Collective provides an additional reference point for travellers researching reliable South Island scenic tours.
Tours Offered
24 routes
Named South Island itineraries
Featured Peaks
Aoraki / Mt Cook
Iconic alpine destination
Popular Destinations
Aoraki, Milford, Kaikoura
Iconic South Island highlights
Regional Focus
South Island
Coastal to alpine routes
Check itineraries like Aoraki Mt Cook, Milford Sound Special and Kaikoura Plus — view trip details and availability on the published listings.
Bring binoculars
A great way to spot distant wildlife like dolphins and herons during your tour.
Dress for weather
Wear layered clothing and sun protection, as outdoor conditions can change quickly on the water.
Arrive early
Getting there ahead of departure allows for a relaxed start and additional prep time.
Photography gear
Bring a waterproof camera or phone to capture the stunning scenery and wildlife.
Sun protection
Sunblock, hats, and sunglasses protect against strong sun while on the water.
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Waterproof clothing
Keeps you dry in case of spray or rain during the trip.
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Binoculars
Helps spot and appreciate wildlife from a distance.
Comfortable outdoor footwear
For walking around docks or boat boarding areas.