Demographics

The South Island of Aotearoa / New Zealand (Te Waipounamu), despite the fact that it is the largest island in New Zealand and the 12th largest island in the world with a land mass of 150,437 square kilometres, is home to just 1.2 million people, that is 23% of New Zealand's 5.2 million inhabitants.  The Island is defined by a diverse and remarkable beauty made up of grand, snow capped mountains, pristine lakes and rivers that go on and on and on, deep green rolling grasslands, and stunning coast line.  It is renowned as an Island of outstanding natural beauty and warm hospitality.

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Unlike the North Island, the South Island is mostly home to people of

European descent with a massive 82.8% of South Islanders identified as

European (Pākehā), 11.3% as Māori, 3.4% as Pacific peoples, 10.5%

as Asian, 1.6% as Middle Eastern/Latin American/African, 1.4% as

other ethnicities.

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​​Economic

​The South Island contributes $86,112m to New Zealand's GDP,

this represents circa 22% of the national GDP.  The economy relies

on agriculture, fishing, tourism, general manufacturing and
services. 

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Infrastructure

​With seven ports, three international airports,  and multiple domestic airports across the South Island, it is well placed to connect to the rest of New Zealand and beyond.

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Each of the regions in the South Island have a unique offering, culture, infrastructure, industry, landscape and economy.  But all of the South Island boasts a backdrop of unmatched coastal and rural landscapes along with diverse wildlife.  The regions are supported by quality schools, universities and often enjoy a lower cost of living than that to be found in the larger cities.   

Explore the regions of the South Island below but before you go, watch the video above that reveals the timeless beauty of the South Island.