Best attractions/activities in New Zealand South Island?

Christchurch, even after the devastating earthquakes is still a lovely city. If you travel round the port hills you can see for miles. You can drive from there to the hot springs at Hanmer, the West Coast is only a few hours drive away with Arthur's Pass kinda in the middle of the journey and the scenery through there is stunning although I would have to say you cant beat Christchurch in Spring. September is beautiful with all the flowers out so you will miss that but it should still be pretty. It can get fairly hot Jan to March (I was there in Jan 05 it got over 40 degrees) The top of the South Island north of Kaikoura has its own attractions, Nelson is very laid back almost hippy like (but in a good way) I could go on for hours about the South Island but you get the joy of experiencing it for yourself. Enjoy your trip.