place to visit new zealand

North Island vs. South Island

Cities to Visit

Getting Around New Zealand

Best Auckland Hotels

New Zealand's Airports

Driving in New Zealand

Visiting New Zealand With Kids

One Week in New Zealand

North Island Road Trip

South Island Road Trip

Top Things to Do

Best Beaches

Skiing in New Zealand

Top National Parks

Museums & Art Galleries

Hot Springs

Wildlife Reserves

Must-Try Food in New Zealand

New Zealand's Wine Regions

Best Restaurants

Nightlife in New Zealand

Best Time to Visit

Weather & Climate

Top Places to Visit

The 15 Best Places to Visit in New Zealand

New Zealand is only 1,000 miles long, 280 miles across at its widest, and home to just under five million people, but this long, narrow country contains many things to see and do. Travelers can ski on snow-capped mountains and bask on subtropical beaches, learn about Maori culture and discover its British heritage, sip on some of the world’s finest wines and hike through the uninhabited wilderness. Whatever travel experiences you enjoy, you can probably find them in New Zealand .

The country comprises two main islands—imaginatively named the North and South Islands in English, and Te Ika a Maui and Te Wai Pounamu, respectively, in Maori. Although the South Island is larger, more than three-quarters of New Zealand’s population lives in the North. Ideally, visitors should spend time on both islands, although picking one isn’t a bad approach. Here are the 15 best places to visit in New Zealand.

On the central North Island, Rotorua is famous for its geothermal features and Maori culture. Travelers short on time can visit on a day trip from Auckland, but it’s a convenient stop when traveling through the North Island. Hell’s Gate, Wai-O-Tapu, or Orakei Korako (on the way to Taupo) are good options for bubbling mud pools, boiling geysers, colorful rock formations, and many resorts and holiday parks in the area have hot spring bathing facilities. You can also learn more about Maori culture at tourist villages like Mitai, Whakarewarewa, and Tamaki with their cultural shows of traditional music and dancing and a hangi meal cooked in an underground pit.

Time commitment: One full day in Rotorua is ideal.

Waitangi is one of the most significant places in New Zealand's modern history. In 1840, Maori chiefs signed a treaty with representatives of the British Crown, the Treaty of Waitangi, a founding document that gave the sovereignty of New Zealand to British rule. Visit for a crash course in the country's history in this beautiful coastal location. The Waitangi Treaty Grounds include an indoor museum, the Treaty House, an ornately carved marae (Maori meeting house), and a ceremonial waka (canoe) spread over a large area. There are beautiful views of the Bay of Islands.

Time commitment: The Waitangi Treaty grounds deserve at least half a day.

Hokianga Harbour

The Hokianga Harbour is an alternative to the Bay of Islands, often overlooked by travelers and perfect for camping or RV adventures. The area is sparsely populated and predominantly Maori. Dune boarding, hiking, horse trekking, and dolphin watching are popular activities in the Hokianga. Base yourself in one of the nearby villages of Omapere, Opononi, and Rawene. To expand your exploration, the Waipoua Forest, just south of the Hokianga, is home to two of the largest living native kauri trees.

Time commitment: Aim to spend two days to a week in the Hokianga area.

Coromandel Peninsula

The Coromandel Peninsula reaches 50 miles into the Hauraki Gulf, across the Firth of Thames from Auckland. It’s a microcosm of all that’s good in northern New Zealand—stunning beaches, hiking trails, and arty, laid-back towns. During low tide at Hot Water Beach, dig a few inches beneath the sand to create your own natural hot spring bath, spend the day at Cathedral Cove, one of New Zealand’s most beautiful beaches (which is saying something), and hike the Pinnacles Walk or Coromandel Coastal Walkway.

Time commitment: To explore the whole Coromandel Peninsula, you’d need at least a week, but it’s possible to make a quick overnight trip from Auckland or Tauranga.

Tongariro National Park

TripSavvy / Taylor McIntyre

On the high central plateau of central North Island, Tongariro National Park is a dual UNESCO World Heritage Site, listed both for its natural and cultural significance. Most sights and activities revolve around three volcanic peaks: Mounts Tongariro, Ruapehu, and Ngauruhoe. The Tongariro Alpine Crossing is a moderately challenging day hike that is spectacular. In winter, ski at the Whakapapa or Turoa ski fields. 

Time commitment: You need a day to hike the famous Tongariro Alpine Crossing (where you can spot the gorgeous emerald lake). With other hikes, biking trails, and skiing options in the winter, it’d be possible to spend several days in and around the park.

Hawke's Bay

Hawke’s Bay is one of New Zealand’s premier wine-producing regions and the oldest—there are more than 200 vineyards. The area is popular for its sunny climate, Art Deco allure, and the world’s largest gannet colony. The city of Napier, in particular, is famous for its Art Deco architecture because, after a massive earthquake in 1931, much of the town was rebuilt in this style. Keen bird watchers should visit the gannet colony at the Cape Kidnappers Reserve.

Time commitment: Hawke’s Bay is quite a long drive from other North Island centers (or a short flight to Hawke’s Bay Airport), so spend at least a couple of days here to make it worth the trip.

At the bottom of the North Island, Wellington is New Zealand’s capital. Equal parts bureaucratic formality and bohemian arts hub, Wellington is a perfect small city to explore. The New Zealand Parliament building, known as the ‘Beehive’ (you’ll understand why when you see it), and the Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa (known simply as Te Papa) shouldn’t be missed. The Weta Workshop is a film special effects company founded by Peter Jackson, director of "The Lord of the Rings" and "The Hobbit," so fans of the film should consider a tour.

Time commitment: Budget at least two days for the central city and another few to visit outlying areas like the Kapiti Coast or Cape Palliser.

Abel Tasman National Park

TripSavvy / Alisha McDarris

Many travelers take the Interislander Ferry from Wellington to Picton, at the top of the South Island, and drive west to the Abel Tasman National Park, New Zealand’s smallest national park. Abel Tasman is all about the golden beaches, turquoise seas, and forested hiking trails. For longer hikes, enter the park from the tiny town of Marahau. You can also enter the park by kayaking from Kaiteriteri.

Time commitment: If staying in nearby Nelson or Motueka, it’s easy to visit the park on a day trip. To complete the popular Coast Track walk, you’ll need three to five days.

TripSavvy / Lauren Breedlove

On the eastern coast of the upper South Island, Kaikoura is famous for its whale and dolphin watching. It’s a marine-life hotspot because of the unique currents and deep trench just offshore. Whale-watching cruises operate all year, and while sperm whale sightings are never guaranteed, there’s a very high chance you’ll see them and dolphins, seals, and albatross.

Time commitment: Many travelers pass through Kaikoura while traveling between Picton and Christchurch. You only need a day for a whale-watching cruise, but extra days in Kaikoura can be spent hiking or enjoying the beaches.

Akaroa and the Banks Peninsula

Jutting southeast from Christchurch, the Banks Peninsula is a volcanic landmass comprising several volcanos. There are many harbors and bays, wildlife-spotting opportunities, and the French settlement of Akaroa, the oldest town in the Canterbury province. There are many 19th-century buildings there and cute French cafes. The Hector’s dolphin—the world’s smallest and rarest—live in the waters off the Banks Peninsula. (Sea kayaking is an excellent way to see them.) There are also many biking and hiking trails on the peninsula.

Time commitment: Akaroa and the Banks Peninsula are an easy day trip from Christchurch, but staying a couple of days will allow you to drive to more remote spots.

Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve

The Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve is one of the largest dark sky reserves in the world. In the central South Island, far from any major settlements, it’s almost entirely free of light pollution, making it an incredible destination for stargazing. Stargazing tours are informative, or you can find a quiet, dark spot on your own. You might also see the Aurora Australis (the Southern Lights, similar to the Northern Lights) if you're lucky. Mount Cook, New Zealand’s highest mountain (12,220 feet), is also in this area.

Time commitment: The tiny towns within the reserve—Lake Tekapo Village, Twizel, and Mount Cook Village—are a long way from anywhere, so these are not a quick getaway. Cloud-free skies are essential for stargazing, so you may need to spend a few days here.

Queenstown is not a typical Kiwi town—its real estate is among the most expensive in the country, and the style is more designer than farmer. But there’s no denying that Queenstown is blessed with beautiful geography as it's set on Lake Wakatipu with views of the Remarkables mountain range. Take the cable car to the top of the hill behind the city for spectacular views. Popular activities in the area include mountain biking, bungee jumping, speedboat rides, whitewater rafting, kayaking, canyoning, skiing in winter, or hiking the many trails.

Time commitment: Queenstown city only needs a day to look around, but it’s an ideal base for exploring the Central Otago wineries, trying adventure sports, and making day trips to Glenorchy, Wanaka, Arrowtown, or Fiordland.

Dunedin and the Otago Peninsula

Dunedin is a university town on the South Island’s east coast. Dunedin is the Scots Gaelic name for Edinburgh, and the Scottish influence is strong. The neo-gothic architecture of the University of Otago, the Dunedin Railway Station, and some churches lend an Old World aesthetic to Dunedin. The world’s second steepest street (as of August 2019), Baldwin Street, is also a quirky sight. (The first is in Harlech, Wales.)

A short drive from Dunedin is the hilly, windswept Otago Peninsula, one of New Zealand’s finest eco-tourism and bird-watching destinations. Drive (or take a tour) out to see the penguin, albatross, and seal colonies of the Otago Peninsula, stopping at Larnach’s Castle en route. 

Time commitment: Two or three days are needed here, divided between the city and the peninsula.

Fiordland National Park

In the southwest of the South Island, the Fiordland National Park is New Zealand’s largest, and it’s part of the Te Wahipounamu UNESCO-listed World Heritage Site. A vast area of forests, mountains, and glacial fiords, visitors can be as active or relaxed as they like here, on sightseeing cruises, scenic flights, or multi-day treks. The small town of Te Anau is a good base and has caves with glow worms. 

Milford Sound is perhaps the most famous sight, with pointy Mitre Peak rising from the water, offering perfect reflections on a clear day. Lake Te Anau and Lake Manapouri are beautiful places to cruise or kayak.

Time commitment: Some travelers visit the Fiordland National Park on a quick day trip from Queenstown or Wanaka, while others stay for longer to explore. The famous Milford Track trek between Te Anau and Milford Sound takes four days.

Stewart Island /Rakiura

Off the southern coast of the South Island, Stewart Island/Rakiura is New Zealand’s third-largest island. Around 85 percent of the island is a national park reserved for penguins, kiwis, and seals. While the temperatures are generally quite cold this far south, the beaches are empty and worth the trip across the Foveaux Strait from Bluff.

Birdwatching and hiking are popular activities, especially within the park's boundaries. The Rakiura Track is a 20-mile (32-kilometer) hiking trail that circles the Rakiura National Park, and it takes two to four days to hike the entire length. The small capital, Oban, is a welcoming town that serves up seriously fresh seafood.

Time commitment: As it’s necessary to get a ferry to Stewart Island/Rakiura (or take a short flight from Invercargill to Oban), it’s worth spending a few days here. Camping is a good option.

The Top 20 Things to Do in New Zealand

Where to See Penguins in New Zealand

How to Spend One Week in New Zealand

The Top 10 Cities in New Zealand

The Top 15 Things to Do on New Zealand's South Island

New Zealand’s Top 6 National Parks

Top 15 Things to Do in New Zealand's North Island

The Complete Guide to New Zealand's Great Walks

Your Trip to New Zealand: The Complete Guide

Take a Road Trip on New Zealand's North Island

The 15 Best Small Towns in New Zealand

How to Go Backpacking in New Zealand

The 10 Most Beautiful Lakes in New Zealand

The 10 Most Important Historic Sites in New Zealand

Fiordland National Park: The Complete Guide

Traveling to New Zealand With Kids: Everything to Know

Get Daily Travel Tips & Deals!

By proceeding, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use .

10 Best Places to Go in New Zealand

Caroline Morse Teel

Caroline Morse Teel is the Managing Editor for SmarterTravel Media. Follow her on Instagram @TravelWithCaroline .

Caroline joined Boston-based SmarterTravel in 2011 after living in Ireland, London, and Manhattan. She's traveled to all seven continents, jumped out of planes, and bungeed off bridges in the pursuit of a good story. She loves exploring off-the-beaten path destinations, anything outdoorsy, and all things adventure.

Her stories have also appeared online at USA Today, Business Insider, Huffington Post, Yahoo, Boston.com, TripAdvisor, Buzzfeed, Jetsetter, Oyster, Airfarewatchdog, and others.

The Handy Item I Always Pack : "Earplugs. A good pair has saved my sleep and sanity many times!"

Ultimate Bucket List Experience : Hiking Mount Kilimanjaro.

Travel Motto : "Don't be boring."

Aisle, Window, or Middle Seat : "Aisle (when the first class private suite isn't available)."

E-mail her at [email protected] .

Travel Smarter! Sign up for our free newsletter.

For many travelers, New Zealand is both a dream destination and a once-in-a-lifetime place to visit. If you’re planning your first trip to New Zealand, or if you’re planning a return trip to see more of this beautiful and wild country, you may want to know which places in New Zealand are at the top of the must-see list. Here are our picks for the 10 best places to go in New Zealand.

Bay of Islands

The Bay of Islands is one of the best places to go in New Zealand for fishing, sailing, and other watersports. The Bay of Islands is about three hours by car from Auckland. This gorgeous region is made up of 144 islands between Cape Brett and the Purerua Peninsula.

What’s there to do in the Bay of Islands? Get on or in the water! Try scuba diving with Paihia Dive ‘s intro-to-diving course. You will be ferried far out into the bay to explore a whole new underwater world.

Or get up close and personal with the marine life in the Bay of Islands on a Fullers GreatSights Hole in the Rock Dolphin Cruise . On a good day, you’ll see both whales and dolphins on this cruise.

The cruise will take you to one of the Bay of Islands’ most famous sights, the Hole in the Rock. You can sail through this unique opening in a rock formation when the tide is right.

Where to stay : Spend a night at the historic Duke of Marlborough Hotel , which has the distinction of holding the oldest pub license in New Zealand and is located on a peninsula that sticks straight out into the middle of the bay.

The 15 Best Hotel Booking Sites

Milford Sound, New Zealand

Rudyard Kipling called Milford Sound the “eighth wonder of the world,” and if you visit this region of New Zealand, you’ll see why. Formed by glaciers during the Ice Age, the landscape around Milford Sound still bears evidence of its creation in the form of epic scenery: Cliffs rise from fjords crowned by mountains and waterfalls.

The best way to see Milford Sound is via boat . Take a sightseeing cruise on the fjord to see waterfalls and wildlife such as dolphins and penguins. Or navigate the waters under your own steam on a kayaking tour.

Once you’ve experienced the water from the surface, go underneath with a visit to the Milford Discovery Centre and Underwater Observatory . This is the only floating, underwater observatory in New Zealand, and visitors can go more than 30 feet deep (while staying dry) and get 360 degrees of the underwater environment.

Where to stay : There are not a lot of places to stay close to the Sound, but if you’d rather not drive the three and a half hours from Queenstown, consider The Milford Sound Lodge . The lodge offers several packages for hiking and boat tours, and there really is no beating this spot in terms of access to the Sound.

Auckland, New Zealand

As both the largest city in New Zealand and its international air travel hub, Auckland is one of the best places to go in New Zealand. Many international flights arrive in New Zealand through Auckland Airport , which makes it an ideal city from which to start your exploration of New Zealand.

Spend at least a day or two in Auckland to get over your long flight and explore the vibrant metropolis before venturing farther afield in New Zealand. Here are our suggestions for what to see and do in Auckland:

• Get some culture by visiting one of the many museums in Auckland, such as the Auckland Art Gallery . This is the largest art institution in New Zealand, featuring more than 15,000 works of historic, modern, and contemporary art.
• If the weather is nice, take a stroll through the 185-acre Auckland Domain park. If you’re visiting on a Saturday, include a stop at the nearby Parnell Farmers’ Market , which sells fresh produce in the morning.
• Auckland is also home to a host of multicultural bars and restaurants serving up all types of cuisine, so be sure to dine in downtown Auckland (and go out for a cocktail or two to check out the nightlife).
• If you’re looking for adventure activities in Auckland, consider the Auckland Bridge Climb . And if you’re really brave, try the Auckland Bridge bungee jump .
• If you’re looking for guided trips in Auckland, book an Auckland City Tour or an America’s Cup sailing experience on Waitemata Harbour.

Where to stay: Just a 10 minute drive from many of the city’s main attractions, Poenamo Hotel is a great option for travelers who value their peace and quiet but still want to stay in a central location.

The 8 Best Websites for Booking Day Tours and Travel Activities

Waiheke Island, New Zealand

Just a little more than 30 minutes by boat from downtown Auckland is Waiheke Island , one of the best places to go in New Zealand for wine lovers. For a small island in the middle of Hauraki Gulf, Waiheke Island sure is home to a lot of vineyards. To sample as many of them as you can on your visit to Waiheke Island, you’ll want to find someone else to drive. Our pick is Waiheke Island Wine Tours , whose expert local guides will shuttle you around to three vineyards to sample several different wines.

All that wine from the vineyards of Waiheke Island will make you hungry. When it’s time to eat, book your lunch or dinner at the Mudbrick Vineyard Restaurant , a gorgeous eatery with sprawling views of the vineyard and the sea. For a really special meal, book the Mudbrick Vineyard Restaurant’s tasting menu, a seven-course event with wine pairings.

Of course, there’s more to do on Waiheke Island than just drink wine! Waiheke Island is also famous for its vibrant art community, beaches, forests, and olive groves. We recommend booking a culture tour, scenic flight, or hiking trip while you’re there to really see why Waiheke Island is one of the best places to go in New Zealand.

Where to stay : It’s definitely worth staying overnight on Waiheke Island, too. Choose the Delamore Lodge , one of the best-reviewed Waiheke Island hotels on Tripadvisor. The hotel also offers some great packages featuring everything from wine and food to spa treatments for couples.

Christchurch, New Zealand

Despite being rocked by four large earthquakes between September 2010 and December 2011, Christchurch has made a true comeback. Visitors to Christchurch will see evidence of the city’s rebirth everywhere, including new buildings made out of old shipping containers and other unique materials like the Cardboard Cathedral .

Of course, many of Christchurch’s original attractions are still standing. One of the best places to visit is the Christchurch Botanic Gardens , a sprawling network of conservatories, walking tracks, and horticultural displays. The gardens also feature some of the largest, tallest, and oldest trees in New Zealand.

Take in the new and the old of Christchurch from above with a journey on the Christchurch Gondola . This cable car lifts you on a scenic ride to the top of Mt. Cavendish.

Where to stay: Peppers Clearwater Resort Christchurch overlooks Lake Kaikainui, offering a glimpse of the beautiful nature the rest of the region has to offer. Located under 10 minutes from Christchurch Airport, resort amenities include an 18-hole golf course, on-site bar and restaurant, and conference rooms available for large events.

The Ultimate Packing List for a Family Road Trip

Queenstown, New Zealand

Located on the southwest side of the South Island, Queenstown has a well-deserved reputation as the adventure capital of New Zealand. During the winter and spring months (June to October), Queenstown is known for world-class skiing. Of course, there’s plenty to do in Queenstown year-round. Adventure activities such as bungee jumping, skydiving, jet boating, and river rafting will let you experience the region from dizzying heights and at breathtaking speeds.

Queenstown is also home to the world’s highest cliff jump, the Shotover Canyon Swing , where you can hurl yourself off a cliff in a number of different ways—including backward or tied to a chair.

If you haven’t lost your appetite (or your lunch) on these adrenaline-pumping activities, enjoy the dining scene in Queenstown—it’s one of the best in New Zealand. As locals and tour guides alike will tell you, one of the best places to eat in Queenstown is Fergburger , which CNN says “may be the best burger joint on the planet.”

Where to stay : Queenstown Park Boutique Hotel is located on the edge of town, giving easy access to the restaurants and other shops but also letting you sleep in relative peace away from the hub of activity.

Te Whakarewarewa Geothermal Valley, New Zealand

No list of the best places to go in New Zealand would be complete without mentioning Te Puia , the New Zealand Maori Arts and Crafts Institute located in Rotorua’s Te Whakarewarewa Geothermal Valley. At this Maori heritage center, you can learn about the nature and rich cultural history of the valley with a Te Rā Guided Experience during the day and experience a Maori welcome ceremony and traditional song and dance performance in the evening.

The Te Whakarewarewa Geothermal Valley is also home to a number of active geysers, including Pohutu, the largest active geyser in the southern hemisphere. Mud pools are another natural attraction in the geothermal valley: These boiling pools reach temperatures of more than 200 degrees Fahrenheit.

Where to stay: Located close to the city center and near the Whakarewarewa Forest, the Distinction Hotel Rotorua is a great jumping off point for your Rotorua vacation. Amenities include free WiFi, a heated swimming pool, on-site spa, four dining options, and a hotel bar.

The 7 Best Hotels with Sleep Amenities

Waitomo Glowworm Caves, New Zealand

The Waitomo Glowworm Caves, naturally illuminated by thousands of glowworms, are among the most unique places to go in New Zealand—and a visit to the caves is one experience you’ll be hard-pressed to duplicate anywhere else. You can take a boat ride through the caves to learn about the history and science behind the phenomenon.

Or, if you really want a unique adventure, try black-water rafting with The Legendary Black Water Rafting Company , which will float you on an inner tube down a subterranean stream. It will be pitch-dark (except for the glowworms), and you’ll get to do everything from jumping off waterfalls to rappelling down cave walls. Choose your own adventure when you book the tour.

There are other (non-glowworm) caves in Waitomo, too. Aranui Cave features ancient cave decorations; Ruakuri Cave has an awesome spiral entrance and unique limestone formations—and, okay, more glowworms, but in this cave, you can do a walking tour rather than a water-based excursion.

Where to stay : The Waitomo Caves Guest Lodge is minutes from the famous glowworm caves. It’s a husband and wife run bed and breakfast.

Franz Josef Glacier, New Zealand

You can hike an actual glacier in New Zealand. The Franz Josef Glacier plays host to both guided walks and jaw-dropping helicopter tours. Tours offer everything from ice climbing to a more relaxed hike on the 6.8-mile-long glacier.

Won’t you be freezing on top of a giant glacier? Nope! The Franz Josef Glacier receives a lot of sunlight, and temperatures on the ice are usually only a few degrees colder than in the nearby town.

Cap off a day touring the Franz Josef Glacier with a soak in the Glacier Hot Pools . The pools are fed by the waters from the Franz Josef Glacier, and you can use one of the three warm pools or get a private pool.

Where to stay : Franz Josef is a small enough town that the precise location won’t make too much of a difference (you’ll be close to everything no matter where you are). Consider the Aspen Court Franz Josef , which has received some of the best ratings in the area.

The Most Stunning Hotels in America

Aoraki Mount Cook National Park

See New Zealand’s highest mountains and longest glacier in Aoraki Mount Cook National Park . There are plenty of opportunities for hiking here, no matter what your skill level. For experienced climbers, there are 23 peaks over 9,800 feet. For those looking for something a little more low-key, there are lots of walks along paved trails or boardwalks that still offer spectacular views.

Make sure you stay past sunset for a visit to the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve, where light pollution is strictly controlled for amazing stargazing opportunities.

Where to stay : Located inside the national park, The Hermitage Hotel will put you close to everything you want to see and do. Splurge on a room with a view of Aoraki/Mt. Cook—it’s worth it.

All of the products featured in this story were hand-selected by our travel editors. Some of the links featured in this story are affiliate links, and SmarterTravel may collect a commission (at no cost to you) if you shop through them.

Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2014. It has been updated to reflect the most current information.

You Might Also Like:

We hand-pick everything we recommend and select items through testing and reviews. Some products are sent to us free of charge with no incentive to offer a favorable review. We offer our unbiased opinions and do not accept compensation to review products. All items are in stock and prices are accurate at the time of publication. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission.

Top Fares From

Don't see a fare you like? View all flight deals from your city.

Today's top travel deals.

Brought to you by ShermansTravel

Southern Italy: 8-Night Tour, Incl. Naples,...

Luxe, 12-Night Spain, France, Monaco &...

Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Ohio: Daily Car Rentals from Cincinnati

Trending on SmarterTravel

Touropia Travel

Discover the World

14 Best Places to Visit in New Zealand

By Becky Griswold · Last updated on May 5, 2024

Comprised of two main islands, North Island and South Island, New Zealand is an incredible destination to discover. Packed with unforgettable landscapes, breathtaking scenery, and an unparalleled combination of lakes, mountains, and lush greenery, the island nation has to be seen to be truly understood.

New Zealand pretty much needs to be on your list if you’re at all an adventure sports enthusiast – or even if you’re just interested in trying them out. Bungee jumping, mountaineering, skydiving, paragliding, mountain biking, kayaking, canyoning, parachuting, caving, zip lining… Let’s just say that the list is endless when it comes to what outdoor activities you can get up to in this far-flung destination.

Map of New Zealand

You can get to grips with adventure sports in Queenstown, surrounded by mountain and lake scenery. Then there’s the dramatic Fiordland – part of the landscape that made up Peter Jackson’s movie interpretation of Middle Earth for Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit (you can even visit The Shire!). Get to know Maori culture at Rotorua, and if you’re missing city life, head to sunny Auckland – the largest city in New Zealand. Here’s a look a the best places to visit in New Zealand:

14. Aoraki Mount Cook National Park

Home to New Zealand’s highest peak, Aoraki Mount Cook National Park offers alpine adventures and picturesque vistas straight from a storybook. With awe-inspiring scenery in every direction and trails catering to various skill levels, it’s a must-visit on any South Island itinerary.

The family-friendly Hooker Valley Route spans 10km with partly paved paths, scenic suspension bridges and little elevation gain. Leading to the stunning Hooker Lake, littered with floating icebergs, the sight is undeniably worth the journey. It typically takes 3 to 4 hours for a round trip. Yet allow extra time to take in the lake and surrounding white-capped peaks.

For the daring, the Mueller Hut Hike begins with the Sealy Tarns Track, featuring endless stairs and breathtaking panoramas. You will continue on a rocky steep journey to Mueller Hut to unparalleled valley views. This 5.2km trek ascends 1050m over 3 to 4 hours one way. It comes with a day trip option or a book a night in the hut for once in a lifetime sunset view over Aoraki.

13. Stewart Island

Stewart Island is the third-largest island of New Zealand, and it is found even further south than South Island. Most of the island is forested and undeveloped with over 80 per cent of the island is set aside as the Rakiura National Park, giving you the chance to explore the wild side of New Zealand.

Most of the pastimes on Stewart Island have to do with the outdoors, including hiking, camping and birdwatching. One of the most popular treks on Stewart Island is the Northwest Circuit, which can take several days to complete for even the fittest hikers. However, the trek offer spectacular views and access to amazing wildlife.

At the top of the South Island is Nelson , a spot known for having the greatest number of sunshine hours per year in all of New Zealand. This great climate and the fact that the city is surrounded by three national parks makes Nelson a fantastic spot for outdoor recreation.

There is also an emphasis on local agriculture and the area’s wineries. Founder’s Park is an amazing spot in the city where you can dine on local farm-to-table cuisine, and soak up the sunshine right in the heart of an urban area.

You can even do a day-trip to Abel Tasman National Park from Nelson using an early bus, which give you just enough time to enjoy the park.

11. Coromandel Peninsula

With its golden coastline, rocky cliffs, and lush greenery, the Coromandel Peninsula has long been a favorite holiday spot for Kiwis. Cathedral Cove stands out as a top attraction. It’s known for its towering cliffs and a massive arched cavern connecting two secluded coves.

The scene is straight from your top New Zealand travel inspiration. Travelers can spend the day swimming in the crisp water or seeking refuge from the sun beneath the shady pohutukawa trees. Unfortunately, storm damage has temporarily closed the trek to the sandy shore. But access via boat or kayak remains available.

For a truly unique experience, visit Hot Water Beach. You will want to time your trip to arrive within two hours of low tide and bring along a shovel. Why a shovel? Beneath the beach’s surface, geothermal activity allows visitors to create their own natural hot springs right on the sand. Settle in for an unforgettable beachside soak!

10. Kaikoura

The picturesque coastal town of Kaikoura offers an ideal setting for marine life encounters and scenic coastal walks. Not to mention savoring a plate of fresh fish and chips.

Positioned along a prominent whale migration route, Kaikoura is famous for its whale-watching tours. Fortunate visitors will be treated to sightings of orcas, humpback, and sperm whales, as they breach high above the sea.

To top that off, sunrise dolphin swims provide a thrilling, surreal and memorable experience. Participants that embark on the early morning tour are suited up in wetsuits and get to dive into the midst of playful dolphin pods.

In addition, we recommend a midday stroll along one of Kaikoura’s many coastal walks. Those looking to encounter even more wildlife should checkout the Point Kean Seal Colony Walk. As the sun sets, venture into the quaint downtown area for a taste of the freshest seafood New Zealand has to offer.

9. Abel Tasman National Park

Nestled at the top of New Zealand’s South Island, Abel Tasman National Park is a coastal paradise waiting to be discovered. Renowned for its beautiful beaches, sculptured granite cliffs, and its world-famous coastal track, it is a place where New Zealand’s natural beauty is on full display.

Abel Tasman may be New Zealand’s smallest national park, but what it lacks in size, it more than makes up for in its breathtaking beauty and the diversity of experiences it offers. Named after the Dutch explorer Abel Janszoon Tasman, who first sighted New Zealand in 1642, the park was founded in 1942, exactly 300 years after Tasman’s visit.

The park’s crowning jewel is the Abel Tasman Coast Track, one of New Zealand’s “Great Walks.” This 60-kilometer trail weaves through lush native forest, over gentle hills, and along the edges of pristine beaches. Kayaking is another way to explore the park’s intricate coastline, with its clear turquoise waters offering a window into an underwater world teeming with marine life.

8. Glacier Country

Glacier Country is found on the Western Coast of South Island, and its jewel is the Westland National Park. In the park, you’ll have the chance to see the country’s two most spectacular glaciers: Franz Josef Glacier and Fox Glacier.

Franz Josef Glacier is one of the most accessible glaciers on the planet, meaning that you can actually walk up to the glacier and even through the glacier valley itself. Guided tours give you a closer look at the expanding glaciers, and you can relax after a day of hiking by soaking in the incredible glacier hot pools.

The seaside resort of Napier on North Island is known as the Art Deco Capital of New Zealand, thanks to a large amount of 1930s architecture built when the city suffered a large fire more than 80 years ago.

Travelers should begin their exploration at the Art Deco Trust. Here you will find a collection of era inspired buildings and exhibits detailing Napier’s history. This includes how a devastating earthquake in 1931 shaped what you see today. To top it off, every February Napier holds the Art déco Festival, attracting around 40,000 participants from around the world who don their finest attire.

Beyond its intriguing architecture, the charming town entices locals and tourists alike with its mild climate, stunning beaches, and plethora of wineries. Hawke’s Bay is globally acclaimed for its exquisite chardonnay and cabernet merlot vinos. With over 70 wineries and 30 cellar doors, the region is a haven for wine enthusiasts.

Join a guided tour with a knowledgeable sommelier or, weather permitting, rent a bicycle to meander through the scores of vineyards. This provides an excellent opportunity to explore the countryside while indulging in the nectar of some of the finest grapes.

Known as the thermal wonderland of New Zealand, Rotorua is home to some of the world’s most impressive natural phenomena. The most notable is Pohutu Geyser. With eruptions happening up to twenty times per day at heights reaching 30 meters, it’s the largest active geyser in the Southern Hemisphere. To see the best of it, visit the vibrant hot springs such as the Champagne Pool and the bubbling mud pots of Hell’s Gate.

Beyond its natural wonders, Rotorua serves as a hub for Maori culture, providing several hubs where visitors can delve into Maori history, traditions, and art. Te Pā Tū stands out as a must-visit. After all, it is “New Zealand’s Most Awarded Tourism Attraction”.

Te Pā Tū will blow you away with captivating cultural performances, including the famous Haka war dance. This is capped off with a traditional Hangi meal, cooked using hot stones in the ground, for an authentic taste of Maori culinary tradition.

If you’re interested in exploring the Bay of Islands, then Paihia is a great place to visit in New Zealand. Paihia is all about the small-town feel, but it boasts an array of great hotels and recreational opportunities to appeal to travelers.

If you’re feeling adventurous and active, you can swim with dolphins or even go scuba diving to see the underwater shipwreck called the Rainbow Warrior. Back on dry land, make your way to Marsden Road for exceptional restaurants serving up an array of freshly caught seafood.

4. Auckland

A vibrant and multicultural hub on the North Island, Auckland is New Zealand’s largest city. Auckland hosts several museums and galleries, including the expansive Auckland War Memorial Museum, which showcases the nation’s history and culture. Also worth visiting is the Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki, which houses over 15,000 pieces of artwork.

A key part of the city’s skyline is the SkyTower. Here you can get sweeping city views from its observation platform. For the adventurous, take the heart-stopping opportunity to walk 192 meters above ground level along the tower’s pergola while strapped to a harness.

But many of its treasures lay beyond the CBD. Auckland’s most iconic island, Rangitoto, is a dormant volcanic cone which offers a gentle yet rewarding climb. Plan your trip to reach the summit by sunset and be rewarded with colorful vistas of the metropolis. Visitors can access the island via a short ferry ride from downtown.

3. Queenstown

On New Zealand’s South Island is Queenstown , a destination known as the dream spot for those in search of adrenaline and adventure. Surrounded by the towering peaks of the Southern Alps, and right on the banks of deep-blue Lake Wakatipu, Queenstown is also an incredibly beautiful spot.

One of the best ways to experience the scenery is on Lake Wakatipu itself. You can cycle around the lake’s perimeter or set off on a cruise of the lake’s magnificent waters. There is also a vibrant nightlife with the town’s small central area packed with bars and restaurants.

2. Tongariro National Park

Encompassing three volcanoes: Tongariro, Ngauruhoe, and Ruapehu, Tongariro National Park highlights New Zealand’s most breathtaking landscapes. It was established as the nation’s inaugural national park in 1887.

This 80,000-hectare expanse showcases nature’s magnificence with emerald lakes, steaming craters, ancient lava flows, and colorful silica terraces. What really sets it apart is its distinction as the world’s first dual UNESCO World Heritage Site. With UNESCO acknowledging both its importance in Maori culture and its exceptional volcanic features.

The famous Tongariro Alpine Crossing, often regarded as New Zealand’s greatest day walk, offers a challenging journey across a remarkably changing terrain. Open from November to May, hikers can expect to spend 7-9 hours completing the nearly 20km trek.

Hiking outside of season is only recommended for experienced climbers equipped with a guide. Despite its challenges, those who embark on this adventure find it immensely rewarding, capturing the quintessential beauty of New Zealand with every step. Lord of the Ring fans may say they conquered Mount Doom!

1. Fiordland

A cherished natural treasure of New Zealand is Fiordland National Park. Home to glaciers, dramatic alpine ranges, unique flora and fauna dating back to the supercontinent Gondwanaland era, it truly is a sight to be seen!

A must-do in Fiordland is a cruise along Milford Sound . Sit on the balcony of one of the many boats, coffee in hand, and marvel at cascading waterfalls as you sail along the iconic Mitre Peak. With plenty of day tours available, consider an overnight journey to catch a glimpse of the starry skies over the sound.

The park offers several day hikes suitable for various ages and abilities. For adventurous souls, the renowned Milford Track awaits. It’s a 33-mile, four-day journey through waterfalls, mountain vistas, and the dramatic Pompolona Icefield. You can bring along a tent or book ahead to sleep in one of the many huts. Plan your trek between October and April to experience the best of this stunning landscape.

New Zealand Travel Video

Share this post:.

12 Best Cities to Visit in New Zealand

27 Top Tourist Attractions in New Zealand

16 Most Beautiful Regions in New Zealand

10 Most Beautiful National Parks in New Zealand

8 Most Amazing Volcanoes in New Zealand

14 Most Charming Small Towns in New Zealand

12 Most Beautiful Lakes in New Zealand

Where to Stay in Auckland: Best Neighborhoods & Hotels

12 Best Things to Do in New Plymouth, New Zealand

12 Top Tourist Attractions in Auckland

Reader interactions.

February 26, 2020 at 4:47 am

Arrowtown and Wanamaker should have been included in your list.

October 26, 2019 at 12:55 pm

Napier was destroyed in a big earthquake, not a fire, although parts of the city caught fire afterwards.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

The 25 BEST Places to Visit in New Zealand (2024 Edition)

• Last Updated: February 5, 2024

If you’re planning a trip to stunning Aotearoa, then our list of the best places to visit in New Zealand will help you with all your travel plans!

Telling anyone that you are planning a trip to New Zealand is likely to result in sheer envy or nostalgic memories from a trip they themselves took. 

Quite rightly New Zealand is regarded as one of the most spectacular countries in the world.

Whether you want to hike through the Fiordland National Park, eat the freshest seafood in Kaikoura, try some adventure sports or throw yourself out of a plane, New Zealand has very much got you covered.

To truly enjoy everything New Zealand has to offer you are best off renting your own set of wheels and hitting the open road.

It really is a place where it’s not about the destination. It’s about the journey. 

We’ll dive into some of the best places to visit on New Zealand’s South Island and North Island, as both have plenty of different things to offer.

READ MORE: Plan your trip to New Zealand with our New Zealand Travel Guide.

Table of Contents

Bay of Islands

Tutukaka coast , cape reinga, tongariro national park , mount maunganui, mount taranaki and the forgotten world highway , abel tasman national park, marlborough wine region, kaikoura , the west coast , milford sound and doubtful sound , catlins national park, otago peninsula , mount cook national park (aoraki) , arthurs pass national park, banks peninsula , christchurch , the best places to visit on the north island.

I’m going to start this article about the best places to visit in New Zealand by focusing on the North Island first!

Chances are this will be either your point of entry, exit, or both. The city’s numerous volcanoes have left their mark and its location as the point where the Tasman Sea and Pacific Oceans meet belies its status as New Zealand’s largest city. 

Auckland is surprisingly full of beaches and hiking trails that are just waiting to be explored, not bad for a city of 1.5 million?

It’s also the perfect gateway to visiting Waiheke Island, a gem of the North Island. Waiheke Island has beautiful vineyards and olive groves as well as beaches and trails.

Whether you want to take on the rugged west coast surf beaches, relax and sip wine on Waiheke Island or head to one out to hike in the rainforests of the Waitakere Ranges, you can do it all in Auckland.

LEARN MORE about all the great things to do in Auckland .

Head north out of Auckland and you will eventually come across the Bay of Islands.

This gorgeous collection of islands on the eastern side of the North Island is home to secluded bays, coastal walks, and plenty of history, putting it firmly on our best of New Zealand list.

Head to Waitangi Treaty Grounds to get a deeper understanding of New Zealand’s history at the place where the Treaty of Waitangi was signed. This treaty formed New Zealand as a British Colony. 

Head over to the lovely little town of Russell , once known as ‘the hell-hole of the pacific,’ it is decidedly less debaucherous these days. 

If you are on a budget then stay in the small nondescript town of Paihia . It’s an excellent gateway to the Bay of Islands and far cheaper than other places in the area.

SPECIAL DEAL: Book a tour of the Bay of Islands here !

This rarely visited region south of the Bay of Islands is a hidden gem on New Zealand’s North Island.

The area is home to some truly spectacular coastal scenery, deserted beaches, and lovely walking trails. 

Two particularly lovely spots are Whale Bay and Matapouri Bay .

The former is a secluded bay home to a lovely walking trail and 99% of the time, no one else.

If you’re wondering what to see in New Zealand, Matapouri Bay is a gorgeous beach that is the perfect place to stretch out with a book, but it’s definitely not a surf beach.

At the end of the ninety-mile beach lies New Zealand’s most northerly point; Cape Reinga. Brace yourself for some of the most spectacular coastal scenery in New Zealand. 

Getting up to Cape Reigna truly is part of the experience. In this case, the journey is just as important as the destination itself. 

One of the most notorious places to visit in New Zealand, thanks to the almost constant smell of sulphur, Rotarua is the heart of geothermal New Zealand.

With geysers blowing their tops, bubbling mud pools, and steaming hot springs, there is plenty to keep you busy. 

Head out to the thermal reserve and check out Te Whakarewarewa to experience the town’s volcanic activity up close and personal. 

The city’s outskirts are home to outdoor activities galore, with mountain biking, tramping (hiking) and various water sports all on the agenda. 

READ MORE: Include these things to do in Rotorua in your itinerary.

If you are in any way claustrophobic then this is not the place for you.

Waitomo is home to some of the largest and most spectacular caves in New Zealand.

Best of all you can experience them firsthand with some incredible caving expeditions. 

Try your hand a black water rafting, which involves an inner tube, lots of water and plenty of glow worms.

Waitomo’s true gem is the lost world cave. The 100-meter free abseil into the cave itself feels like a descent to the centre of the earth.

From here it’s a mixture of climbing, walking, wading, and swimming to return to the surface. 

Book a rafting experience in the Waitomo Caves on Get Your Guide .

Welcome to one of the country’s most spectacular national parks. Any New Zealand destination trip should definitely include a visit to this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The stunning expanse of land is home to the famous Tongariro Crossing , considered by some to be the best 1-day hike in the world. 

However, there is more to the Tongariro National Park than the crossing.

The Ridge Walk from the hamlet of Whakapa offers spectacular views of both Mount Ngauruhoe and Mount Ruapehu.

Longer trails such as the Silica Rapids and Taranaki Falls trails also offer spectacular views of both mountains.

Grab the opportunity to take on these trails at sunrise to enjoy some epic views all to yourself.  

Lake Taupo in the heart of the North Island is the centre of extreme adventure sports for the region.

Here you can throw yourself off a bungee ledge or out of a plane to your heart’s content.

In fact, with more than 30,000 leaping from planes every year, Taupo is the skydiving capital of the world. 

The lake itself is home to numerous water sport options ranging from relaxing cruises to hiring a speed boat yourself. 

A short drive from Taupo is the breathtaking Hukka Falls which is certainly worthy of a visit. 

Lake Taupo itself is littered with secluded bays where you can park up, take a dip and soak up the scenery, perfect for a lazy day. 

There are also mountain biking and hiking trails aplenty if a lazy day is very much out of the question!

Put it on your list of places to see in New Zealand!

Welcome to New Zealand’s premier beach resort. This quaint little town that sits just to the east of the Coromandel Peninsula is home to a fantastic beach. 

The town’s namesake comes from the hill (mountain certainly is a bit of a stretch).

There is a lovely short walk up to the top which offers some spectacular views.

This hill is also the literal jumping-off point for the area’s paragliders.  

Mount Taranaki is very much the highlight in this part of New Zealand.

Rising majestically from the earth’s surface, Mount Taranaki’s almost perfect cone dominates the landscape. 

Due to its accessibility, Mount Taranaki ranks as the most climbed mountain in New Zealand.

There are three main start points from which to hike to the summit: North Egmont, Dawson Falls, or East Egmont .

Sprouting out to the east of Taranaki is the Forgotten World Highway , truly this is a New Zealand road trip like no other.

The Forgotten World Highway winds through abandoned mines, fortified Maori villages, and small towns whose glory days are very much in the rearview mirror.

The road hugs the natural contours of the land giving the feeling your a riding one very long roller coaster. 

The town of Whangamomona is a particularly quirky highlight.

The town declared itself a republic in 1989 and celebrates this every odd-numbered year to this day. 

The Forgotten World Highway can be comfortably driven in a day. Although do be aware that there are some sections of unsealed roads. 

Cosmopolitan Wellington is a hip counterpoint to Auckland’s slicker reputation. New Zealand’s constitutional capital is in many ways its cultural capital.

It’s here that possibly the best museum in New Zealand can be found. The epic Te Papa Museum is home to exhibits focusing on New Zealand’s history, its nature and its future. 

Head up to Mount Victoria for some lovely views over the city. Hopefully, Wellington’s notorious weather won’t put a dent in your plans. 

For a night out, head to Cuba Street if you fancy something more on the hipster side or down to the waterfront if you fancy a more sophisticated evening. 

READ MORE: Looking for other fun things to do in Wellington ? Check out our guide!

The Best Places to Visit on the South Island, New Zealand

There’s always a bit of debate about which island is the best in New Zealand.

You’ve read about the North Island, so now I want to share with you all the top places to visit on the South Island.

This stunning National Park is one of the top places to go on the South Island of New Zealand.

It’s home to the most accessible of New Zealand’s great walks, the Abel Tasman Coast Track .

Taking between 3 and 5 days depending on your fitness you will be rewarded with a pristine coastal view and the joyful isolation the long-distance hikes can bring. 

You do not need to take on the entire Coast Track to experience this stunning National Park.

There are plenty of options where you can take on smaller sections. A welcome relief if your time here is limited. 

These shorter day tours begin in Kaiteriteri , although it is possible to do a much longer day trip from Nelson .

Alternatively, you can kayak Abel Tasman if you would like to explore it from the water.

Be prepared to be spoilt for choice as you explore the largest wine region in New Zealand.

Accounting for 85% of New Zealand’s wine exports, Marlborough is home to around 35 wineries that are open to the public. 

They provide cellar door experiences and tastings, with many wineries offering food options as well. 

There are numerous ways to experience the wineries. You can drive yourself around, take a guided tour or take on one of the many cycling routes to burn those calories. 

This quaint little city finds itself sandwiched between the Abel Tasman National Park and the Marlborough Wine Region on the South Island.

This combined with beautiful surroundings, a funky art and restaurant scene topped off with lashings of sunshine make it one of the most liveable cities in New Zealand. 

Nelson is chock full of galleries and great restaurants, plus plenty of breweries.

Plenty of opportunities to gorge yourself before heading out into the wilderness of the Abel Tasman National Park.

For those interested in wildlife this is surely one of the best places to visit in New Zealand.

After a devastating earthquake in 2016 transport in and out of Kaikoura was a challenging and time-consuming affair whilst the coastal highway was rebuilt. 

With snow-capped peaks as its backdrop, Kaikoura is blessed both on land and sea.

The town is famous for its incredible wildlife. With seals, albatross, dolphins, and whales all living in the waters surrounding the town. 

There are numerous tours available to view these spectacular creatures up close with money made from such tours going back to support local wildlife conservation projects in many cases.

The west coast of the South Island is home to gorgeous beaches, deserted lakes, and a couple of glaciers thrown in for good measure. 

Check out quaint little Hokitika and it’s a rather impressive gorge.

If you fancy something a bit more secluded head over to Lake Kaniere for a cheeky dip. 

Heading further south will bring you to Franz Josef Glacier and Fox Glacier . Whilst they are fast receding, both Fox and Franz Josef Glacier are still spectacular. 

If you’re looking for adventure activities you may head all the way down to the windswept beaches of Jackson Bay . 

An awesome part of New Zealand to stop off where you please.

Read next: The Best Things To Do In Franz Josef

Of all the places to visit in New Zealand, Wanaka has to be near the top of your list.

Perched on the shores of Lake Wanaka, this tiny town can certainly stake a claim to being one of the most beautiful places in New Zealand’s South Island. 

The area is home to numerous hikes including the infamous Roys Peak .

Whilst not being the most interesting trail, a 1300m ascent of solid switchbacks, 8km up and 8km back down, the views from the summit are nothing short of breathtaking. 

If you fancy something a bit more extreme then Wanaka is one of the best places in New Zealand to try your hand at canyoning.

You work your way down a canyon by abseiling, rappelling, swimming, and some seriously high jumps.  

READ MORE about the incredible things to do in Wanaka !

Welcome to the adrenaline capital of the world and the adventure capital of New Zealand. It all began in 1988 when AJ Hackett opened the world’s first Bungy, at the Kawarau Bridge.

From that point on Queenstown became the place to throw yourself off of or out of something just for the sheer thrill of it.

The original Bungy site is still in operation. However, if you’re brave enough you can head up the completely terrifying Nevis Bungy which is stomach-churning 134 meters high. 

If you don’t fancy a bunny then try out the epic canyon swings, flying foxes, paragliding, mountain bike trails, and jet boating. Queenstown is known for adventure sports!

If you’re here in the winter months then you can head up to the snow capped mountains of the Remarkables for some skiing and snowboarding. 

Of course, no mention of Queenstown would be complete with a mention of the institution that is Fergburger .

Starting out in 2001 it developed from a hole-in-the-wall burger joint to New Zealand’s most famous restaurant, where the cue is always long.   

Be sure to add these epic things to do in Queenstown to your New Zealand itinerary!

Nestled in the southwest corner of the island, Milford Sound and Doubtful Sound are in the heart of the Fiordland National Park and a popular spot on any New Zealand bucket list. 

Being the more well-known (and affordable) of the two, Milford Sound receives far more visitors than Doubtful Sound.

Milford Sound can be done as a day trip from Queenstown, with this becoming the preferred option for many.

However an overnight option is a great option, plus there will be far fewer people.

As spectacular as Milford Sound is, and it is truly breathtaking (don’t believe me? Check out this awesome day tour cruise ), it cannot compare to Doubtful Sound.

At 10 times the size of Milford Sound, it is truly something that needs to be seen to be believed.

Its sheer remoteness and size means that very often it feels like the only boat in the sound is yours. 

Getting out to Doubtful Sound requires a boat trip across Lake Manapouri, followed by an hour’s drive along the most expensive road in New Zealand before you arrive.

If you have the time and budget, an overnight stay is a highlight for those that do.

This is the wettest region in New Zealand’s South Island and when the heavens open, waterfalls cascade down the surrounding mountains and Milford Sound and Doubtful Sound come alive. 

Check out our incredible experience kayaking Doubtful Sound .

This gorgeous National Park in the southeastern corner of the South Island is a glorious combination of desolate windswept beaches and rugged coastal hiking trails. 

More often than not it’s overlooked by travellers as the criss-cross between Otago and Fiordland.

A crying shame in truth, but a wonderful opportunity to escape the crowds. 

Curio Bay is an amazing place to spot yellow-eyed penguins and the rare Hectors dolphin.

If you’re lucky seals, sea lions and even the occasional whale may be spotted. 

Head down to the most southerly point of mainland New Zealand at Slope Point , explore hidden beaches and take on the numerous hiking trails. 

READ MORE: Check out our ultimate guide for hiking in New Zealand !

A short drive from the centre of Dunedin is the Otago Peninsula which is full of wildlife and deserted beaches. 

The big draw here is the Albatross Centre where you can observe these stunning creatures and understand more about the threats to their habitat and environment.

It’s also possible to visit the Albatross Centre in the evening to observe the little blue penguins, the world’s smallest species returning to their nests at night.

Usually between 100 and 200 will return on any given night. However, sometimes this number can be as high as 300! 

For more adventures with the local wildlife head out on a sea kayaking tour to observe the area’s seal and sea lion communities.

These guided tours will take you around to sheltered bays that would be impossible to visit without a kayak, giving you the opportunity to observe these stunning creatures in their natural environment. 

Read more about our epic hikes throughout the Otago area.

Mount Cook National Park is one of the most spectacular places to visit in New Zealand. If you are lucky enough to be here on a day with clear blue skies then prepare to be amazed. 

The SH80 that runs parallel to Lake Pukaki gives you the first glimpse of the highlight of the Southern Alps.

There are a couple of spots that offer incredible views of Mount Cook .

If you are in a camper van, try to get here early to make sure you have a spot in the DOC camping site in Mount Cook National Park. 

From this DOC camping site, the Hooker Valley walk starts. This is the starting point for the Hooker Valley Track , although you can also join the Sealy Tarns and Kea Point Tracks from here.

The Hooker Valley Track is probably the best of these three-day walks on the South Island.

The views of Mount Cook after the second swing bridge are breathtaking.

At the end of the trail, you will find yourself on the edges of Hooker Lake where icebergs from the Hooker Glacier are likely to be floating. 

Mount Cook National Park has those dramatic alpine views that you expect to see in New Zealand!

This small national park is in the heart of the Canterbury Region and is home to numerous hiking trails including the Devils Punchbowl, Temple Basin, Bealey Spur, and Avalanche Peak .

Head down to Jackson’s Retreat to check out their glow worm tours as well. 

The West Coast Road, SH73 that runs through the Arthurs Pass National Park from east to west is home to a number of gorgeous lakes and mountain vistas en route.   

Sticking out from the South Island’s east coast is the Banks Peninsula. This little piece of paradise is one of New Zealand’s prettiest spots.

The main town of Akaroa is the perfect place to base yourself for exploring the peninsula. 

It’s home to numerous hiking trails taking you into the surrounding hills.

It’s also an awesome place to take dolphin tours to spot the tiny Hectors Dolphin which is only found in New Zealand. 

Take a day to explore some of the many hidden beaches tucked away in various corners of the peninsula, with Okains Bay being particularly lovely.

The drive from Akaroa is absolutely spectacular. 

It is possible to do this as a day trip from Christchurch. However, I would very much recommend taking at least two nights to explore the stunning area of New Zealand. 

For many, this is their point of entry or exit. A charming place to spend a night or two, there is plenty to keep you busy.

The city’s botanical gardens are well worth checking out and are particularly beautiful in spring. 

Over the course of 2010 and 2011, Christchurch was hit by a number of earthquakes, changing the city forever.

The impacts of these earthquakes can still be seen today where Christchurch Cathedral is still undergoing repairs.

Visit Quake City to learn more about the complex relationship Christchurch has with earthquakes. 

If you’re in the mood for some scenery head up to the Gondola for amazing views of Christchurch, Lyttelton, and Banks Peninsula from the top of Mount Cavendish.

READ MORE: Be sure to add these amazing things to do in Christchurch !

DISCLAIMER: Some of the links in this article are affiliate links, which means if you book accommodation, tours or buy a product, we will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions help us keep creating more free travel content to help people plan their holidays and adventures. We only recommend the best accommodations, tours and products that ourselves or our fantastic editorial team have personally experienced, and regularly review these. Thanks for your support, kind friend!

Richard Barnes

Hi, We’re Alesha and Jarryd!

We’ve been traveling the world together since 2008, searching for the planet’s best destinations and adventures.

Love Travel?

Sign up for our free weekly newsletter for the best travel tips, ideas and deals!

We respect your privacy. Unsubscribe at any time.

READ MORE...

Whanganui Journey in New Zealand – The Ultimate Guide [2024]

The Ultimate Guide to New Zealand’s South Island in Winter

5 Best Adventure Activities In Taranaki, New Zealand

Related Posts

The ultimate guide to hiking in new zealand (2024), wanaka homestead review – a home away from home, 21 epic things to do in queenstown, nz [2024 guide], 8 amazing things to do in rotorua, new zealand, leave a comment cancel reply.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

16 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in New Zealand

Written by Lana Law and Michael Law Updated Jan 19, 2024 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

New Zealand is easily one of the most beautiful countries in the world. From the snow-capped peaks and coastal glaciers to the rain forests, fjords, beaches, and farmland, this country appeals to a wide range of travelers.

On various trips, we have traveled across New Zealand with our tent, camping in parks and doing treks, and stayed in accommodations that have ranged from off-the-grid stays to luxury resorts. Each of these brought different but equally appealing experiences.

The South Island is full of outdoor adventure, adrenaline sports, and endless sightseeing possibilities with its dramatic landscapes, vine-draped fields, and small towns and cities. Hotspots in the central and south portions of the island include Queenstown, Wanaka, Milford Sound, Aoraki/Mount Cook, Christchurch , and the West Coast . In the north end of the South Island, are the beautiful communities of Kaikoura, Blenheim, Nelson, and also Abel Tasman National Park.

The North Island is home to volcanoes, rolling green fields, beautiful stretches of beach, coves and offshore islands, and giant kauri trees. It also has some of the country's big cities and cultural hotspots, like Auckland and Wellington .

Getting around New Zealand can be half the fun. Many people drive themselves, either renting campervans or staying in small hotels along the way. The North and South Islands are connected by ferry service , and flights service the major towns. If you want to drive yourself and see both islands, consider flying into Auckland and out of Christchurch or vice versa. You can rent a car in either location and drop it at the end of your trip, just be sure to book a ferry well in advance so you don't get stuck.

For more ideas on things to do, read our list of the top attractions in New Zealand.

1. Queenstown, South Island

2. aoraki/mount cook national park, south island, 3. milford sound, south island, 4. bay of islands, north island, 5. franz josef glacier and fox glacier, south island, 6. lake taupo and tongariro national park, north island, 7. rotorua, north island, 8. abel tasman national park & the abel tasman coast track, south island, 9. auckland, north island, 10. coromandel peninsula, north island, 11. kaikoura, south island, 12. giant kauri trees, north island, 13. napier, hawke's bay, north island, 14. arthur's pass, 15. kura tawhiti conservation area (castle hill), south island, 16. ninety mile beach and cape reinga.

Set between the shores of Lake Wakatipu and the snowy peaks of the Remarkables, Queenstown is New Zealand's adventure capital and one of the country's top destinations for international visitors.

Activities and things to do here include jet boating, a steamship cruise, white water rafting, bungee jumping, paragliding, mountain biking, hiking, rock climbing, and downhill skiing in winter, to name just a few. You can also take the recently expanded and updated Queenstown Gondola, now seating ten people, up to the top of Bob's Peak. The views out over Lake Wakatipu and the Remarkables are truly spectacular.

The waterfront is a beehive of activity , particularly in the summer, with every type of boat tour you can imagine leaving right from the docks. You only need to stroll down the main street to find information and sign up for tours.

Queenstown has a lot to offer besides adventure sports. You can enjoy the creature comforts here with top-notch hotels, spas, restaurants, galleries, and shops. The downtown area has seen significant improvements recently with the addition of a variety of new shops in a pedestrian-only zone.

It's also a great base for sightseeing trips to the Central Otago region, where visitors can explore gold-mining towns like Arrowtown and the Middle Earth scenery from the popular Lord of the Rings movies.

Queenstown is a very tourist-focused destination, particularly when compared to other destinations around the country. This is especially true in summer. It's a fun place to spend a few days, but it doesn't have an authentic New Zealand feel by any stretch.

• Top-Rated Things to Do in Queenstown
• From Queenstown to Wanaka: Best Ways to Get There

Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park is home to some of New Zealand's most fantastic mountain scenery, and for hikers, this is an absolute must-visit destination on the South Island. As hikers ourselves, this is our favorite destination in New Zealand.

In the heart of the Southern Alps, the park is home to Aoraki/Mount Cook , New Zealand's highest peak, and more than 40 percent of the park is covered in glaciers.

The region boasts one of the most popular hikes in New Zealand, the Hooker Valley Track . The 10-kilometer trail is an easy hike on a gentle path at the base of mountains and stunning hanging glaciers that tower above. You'll walk beside a fast-moving river much of the way until you reach a beautiful alpine lake that offers incredible views of the Hooker Glacier terminus.

The Tasman Glacier also lies within its borders, making this a top destination for mountaineering. Sir Edmund Hillary trained here for his legendary Mount Everest ascent.

The best way to visit the park is to drive to Aoraki/Mount Cook Village , which is a long drive from anywhere, so it's best to spend at least a night, but two or more if you want to do multiple hikes or other activities. However, the Hooker Valley hike here leaves right from the village and can be easily done in a morning or an afternoon.

Mount Cook Village is very small but does have some accommodation options. From here you can organize activities such as scenic flights, ski touring, heli-skiing, and hiking. Since this is a dark sky reserve, it's also a wonderful place for stargazing. If your budget allows, spend a night at the Hermitage Hotel and stay in one of the rooms on the uppermost floors for jaw-dropping views.

Author's Tip : Be sure to book in advance to secure a room in Aoraki/Mount Cook Village including the campground. Don't just show up. Weather makes all the difference here, so have a look at the forecast a few days out and consider your options if it's raining. The sunnier the better. Depending on where you are starting from, if it looks like rain, you may want to head to Milford Sound instead.

This hike is often very crowded. If you want to avoid the masses, start early. But that said, if it's sunny, it's better to wait until at least mid-day for the best light on the mountains.

A World Heritage Site, Fiordland National Park protects some of the incredible coastal scenery. Most visitors come here for only a brief visit and do a half-day boat tour through Milford Sound . This is one of the most popular tours in the country. The main highlights are the fjords of Milford Sound , Doubtful Sound, and Dusky Sound.

If you get a calm day you can see the mountains reflecting in the water. If it's raining, which it often is in this part of the country, you will be able to see gushing waterfalls. But the entire area offers a variety of experiences with its offshore islands, virgin rain forests, vast lakes, and craggy mountain peaks. Sea kayaking is also a popular way to explore the fjords, and visitors can also enjoy a scenic flight over the park for a bird's-eye view of its staggering beauty.

The park is also a haven for hikers with some of the country's best hiking, including the famous Milford Track . The major treks are seasonal and require permits in advance.

Milford Sound is a long way from anywhere. There is some limited and pricy accommodation here, but many people do this as a long day trip from Queenstown, or a shorter day trip from Te Anou or Manapouri . You can arrange a tour to get here or do it yourself if you have a car. If you are doing this yourself be sure to book your boat tour in advance and leave yourself lots of time for the drive . The drive is more challenging and time-consuming than it looks on a map.

• Read More: Fiordland National Park: Top Hikes & Things to Do

A three-hour drive north of Auckland, the beautiful Bay of Islands is one of the most popular vacation destinations in the country. More than 144 islands dot the glittering bay, making it a haven for sailing and yachting.

Penguins, dolphins, whales, and marlin live in these fertile waters, and the region is a popular sport-fishing spot. Visitors can sea kayak along the coast, hike the many island trails, bask in secluded coves, tour Cape Brett and the famous rock formation called Hole in the Rock , and explore subtropical forests where Kauri trees grow. The quaint towns in the area such as Russell , Opua , Paihia, and Kerikeri are great bases for exploring this scenic bay.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in the Bay of Islands

Franz Josef Glacier and Fox Glacier are known for being among the most accessible glaciers in the world, and they are two of the main tourist attractions on the West Coast . Both of these glaciers flow from some of the highest peaks in the Southern Alps right down to near sea level. And this is where you can see them from hiking trails or various scenic driving locations.

In years past, short hikes led to the foot of the glaciers, but these trails now stop several kilometers back due to the glacier's retreat. Although the views are good, they leave you with a feeling of sadness as the effects of global warming are starkly evident. But they also give you a look at the landscape in which these glaciers exist. You walk through the flora of temperate rainforest to see a glacier, which is startling, to say the least.

To truly get close to the glaciers nowadays, you'll need to take a small plane or helicopter and fly to the top of these vast tongues of ice where the pilots will land and let you wander around on the frozen landscape. You can arrange tours in the small towns of either Franz Glacier (the most options) or Fox Glacier .

For one of the best views of the Fox Glacier drive out the Cook Flat Road toward Lake Matheson. You have views back along this road of the glacier and there is an excellent viewpoint out here with a large piece of Maori art. It's worth also doing the spectacular Lake Matheson hike for views of the Southern Alps. The mountains reflect in the calm waters of Lake Matheson at viewpoints along this hike.

In the center of the North Island and just a few kilometers from glittering Lake Taupo, New Zealand's largest lake , lies Tongariro National Park. The big draw for tourists and backpackers is the epic Tongariro Alpine Crossing hike that runs through the park. This is a long and strenuous hike and is certainly not for everyone.

The park is a dual World Heritage Site due to its volcanic features and its importance to the Maori culture . The volcanic peaks of Tongariro, Ngauruhoe, and part of Ruapehu were gifted by Maori chief Te Heuheu Tukino IV in 1887 to the people of New Zealand to preserve this sacred land.

Tongariro is a land of dramatic beauty, with rugged volcanoes, turquoise lakes, arid plateaus, alpine meadows, and hot springs. If you want to do the Tongariro Alpine Crossing , the NZ Mountain Safety Council has a great video that shows what you can expect on this hike.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Taupo

On the tumultuous Pacific Ring of Fire, Rotorua is one of the most active geothermal regions in the world and here it's very easy for visitors to access these wonders.

Boiling mud pools, hissing geysers, volcanic craters, and steaming thermal springs reveal the forces that birthed much of New Zealand's dramatic topography.

You walk through these geothermal wonders and soak in steaming mineral springs while visiting a variety of interesting attractions. It's also an area where you can learn about the region's Maori history and culture.

If you're looking for adventure here, you can go sky-diving, luging, or mountain biking. Trout fishing is also popular, and Rotorua is the gateway to the ski fields of Mt. Ruapehu .

Nearby Wai-O-Tapu is also a popular tourist attraction with colorful hot springs and the famous Champagne Pool and Lady Knox Geyser .

While Rotorua should definitely be on your itinerary, it doesn't necessarily require a lot of time. If you are on a tight schedule, this is one place you can cover in a day or two.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Rotorua

The Abel Tasman Coast Track in Abel Tasman National Park is one of New Zealand's Great Walks . Winding along sparkling Tasman Bay , from Marahau to Separation Point, this scenic 51-kilometer hike lies in one of the sunniest regions of the South Island. But, you don't have to hike this epic trail in its entirety to enjoy the park.

In the past, the primary way to see the best parts of the trail was to hike the entire trail. Now, tour boats run frequently and go to all the highlights .

Base yourself in the tiny village of Kaiterriteri . This little place has some fantastic beaches and stunning scenery, and it's a good place to book a tour and hop on a boat.

Many options are available that allow visitors to snorkel or kayak in secluded coves; enjoy tours that offer the chance to spot fur seals, dolphins, penguins, and a diverse range of birds; hike through cool forests; and enjoy panoramic views from the rugged coastal cliffs.

Photographers will also enjoy the many weathered rock formations, especially Split Apple Rock , a giant granite boulder sliced in two.

If you still want to still get out into nature the old-fashioned way, the hike takes around three days, and accommodation ranges from campgrounds to rustic huts, and plush private lodges.

Author's Tip: If you plan on doing the beautiful Torrent Bay to Medlands section of the hike , which is one of the most popular sections, wear shorts, be prepared for mud, and bring water shoes for stream crossings, even at low tide. Otherwise, the hike is considerably longer because you will have to take a trail through the forest rather than cross the coast flats. Also, although the water looks clear and inviting on the spectacular beaches, it is bone-numbingly cold.

Blessed with two sparkling harbors, Auckland, the "City of Sails," is New Zealand's largest and most dynamic city. It has a population of about 1.5 million people but still feels like a small, easy-to-manage city.

Popular activities for tourists to enjoy in Auckland include taking a leisurely walk around the Viaduct waterfront area full of interesting boutiques and restaurants, checking out museums, and shopping along the pedestrian-friendly Queen Street .

To get a breathtaking view of Auckland and its surroundings, take a ride up the Sky Tower , which stands at an impressive height of 328 meters.

For something different (and cheap!) hop on one of the ferries to visit Devonport , a charming town located by the water with lovely parks, beaches, and a pier.

Auckland is surrounded by natural wonders that include beaches with both blond and black sand, lush rainforest hiking trails, charming coves, islands, and magnificent volcanoes. This makes it an ideal location for embarking on day trips and wilderness adventures.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Auckland

Just across the Hauraki Gulf from Auckland, the rugged Coromandel Peninsula seems a world away from the city's hustle and bustle. Craggy mountains cloaked in native forest form a spine along the peninsula, offering excellent opportunities for hiking and birding.

Other fun things to do for tourists include relaxing on the golden beaches, sea kayaking around the offshore islands, sky diving, and visiting the many galleries and art studios. At Hot Water Beach , a dip in the bubbling hot pools is a great way to end a busy day of sightseeing.

Kaikoura is one of the most beautiful small towns in New Zealand. Mountains, green fields, and the sparkling ocean surround this lovely little community. And birders, wildlife enthusiasts, and seafood aficionados will love this charming coastal village. Tucked between the Seaward Kaikoura Range and the Pacific Ocean, Kaikoura has a rich marine environment and is home to dolphins, seals, whales, and a variety of seabirds.

One of the most popular things to do in Kaikoura is to swim with the dolphins . You'll see this advertised frequently. Tour boats take you out to these curious creatures who love to interact with swimmers by swimming up and around the participants.

But, other less intense experiences are also well worth looking into. This includes whale watching, albatross boat trips, and an easy hike to a seal colony .

The unique offshore ocean structure from Kaikoura provides ample food sources that attract whales from around the world. Sperm whales can be seen year-round and Orcas visit from December to March. In the depths of the New Zealand winter (June and July), humpback whales are numerous.

The ample oceanic food also attracts an incredible number of seabirds year-round, including the world's largest – the great albatross. You can reach the albatross with just a 15 to 20-minute boat ride , and you're very likely to see dolphins on this trip as well.

Unlike places like Queenstown or Wanaka which can sometimes feel like they are just there to cater to tourists, Kaikoura has retained a small town, local vibe.

New Zealand has a weird and wonderful assortment of flora and fauna and one of the most extreme examples of this are the giant Kauri trees of the North Island. These towering behemoths are magnificent and awe-inspiring. Massive trunks ascend to the forest canopy and you can't help but feel somewhat insignificant in their presence. And the giant among giants is Tāne Mahuta, translated as Lord of the Forest .

The tree stands at an impressive 177 feet high, but it's the girth of the trunk that truly inspires - 53 feet in circumference. This tree is easily reached by a flat and level 500-foot-long trail located right off Highway 12.

In the sunny region of Hawke's Bay, Napier is famous for its gourmet food and Art Deco architecture. After a powerful earthquake destroyed the town in 1931, it was rebuilt in the Spanish Mission style and Art Deco design for which Miami Beach is also famous.

Today, fun things for visitors to do include taking a self-guided tour to view these buildings, some of which are embellished with Maori motifs, or spending time at Napier Beach.

Along the Marine Parade seafront promenade lies the town's famous statue from Maori mythology, called Pania of the Reef . Napier is also a haven for foodies. Gourmet restaurants here specialize in using fresh produce from the region, and the town plays host to popular farmers' markets. Nearby attractions include hiking trails and the gannet colony at Cape Kidnappers .

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Napier

Most people make the drive from the east side of the South Island to the west as part of their explorations. If you are making the journey from Christchurch, a must-see highlight along the way is the alpine wonderland known as Arthur's Pass.

Home to rushing rivers, towering mountains, and thundering waterfalls this natural area is well worth exploring. A few of New Zealand's best hiking trails have trailheads here and range from short (but steep) treks to the Devils Punchbowl waterfall to multi-day backpacking adventures staying in alpine huts like Barker and Carrington.

A popular lookout in the park is a view over the Otira Viaduct , with fantastic views down the valley. Sometimes you can also see kea birds at this stop, but recently, there has been less than in previous years.

It's not all about nature, the area is also especially historic. It was across this rugged and inhospitable pass that the gold miners had to make their way to the rich fields on the West Coast starting with a road in 1886 and a railway by 1923.

Arthur's Pass is a great place to stop even if you aren't heading out on an adventure. Be sure to stop in at the Crafty Moa restaurant at the Bealey Hotel for a bite to eat on their expansive outdoor patio while soaking up the scenery.

The Kura Tawhiti Conservation Area, also known as Castle Hill, is a must-see highway attraction on the highway heading to Arthur's Pass from Christchurch . Bizarre limestone rocks jut out of the rolling pastureland, and the impulse to walk up to see them is almost irresistible.

Fans of the Chronicles of Narnia movie may find the spot familiar as several scenes were shot here.

Fortunately, an easy-to-follow, wide walkway leads to the base of the rocks and ascends through the forest of giant boulders. Count on a 1.4-kilometer walk , which takes about 20 minutes, but it can be longer if you take one of the secondary trails and walk to the top of one of the rocks for impressive views across the valley.

This is a good stop if you are heading from Christchurch to the West Coast. Drive time from Christchurch is about one hour and twenty minutes . It's also a fun place for photos. A large parking area with picnic tables and restrooms also makes this a perfect stopping point for a picnic.

Official Site: https://www.doc.govt.nz/parks-and-recreation/places-to-go/canterbury/places/kura-tawhiti-conservation-area/?tab-id=50578

Beach lovers around the world fantasize about endless golden beaches and may wonder if such a thing exists. Well, in New Zealand it does. This wild, windswept beach has no luxury resorts, no jet skis bombing around, no lounge chairs at the water's edge, but what it does have is wide-open spaces, abundant birdlife, and a rich marine environment.

Pick your access point and drive along Ninety Mile Beach (the beach is actually an official highway!) and find a place all to yourself. But, before venturing forth, check the tides, and 4WD vehicles are recommended. No car? No problem, tour companies take giant specially equipped buses out onto the beach. Tours depart from Paihia and Kerikeri.

If you are really fortunate and low tide is in the evening, be sure to be on the beach for sunset. Many people consider the ones up here to be New Zealand's best.

A short jaunt north of 90 Mile Beach is Cape Reinga . The historic lighthouse reached via a short walkway marks the point where two oceans collide. The weather up here is notoriously changeable, be prepared for everything - wind, rain, and sun - all in the span of a few minutes.

More on New Zealand

• facebook-official
• youtube-play
• pinterest-circled

Month-by-Month Guide to the Best Places to Visit in New Zealand

Nz pocket guide is 10 years old. thank you for trusting us with your trip for over a decade, where to visit in new zealand and when.

Let’s be honest, New Zealand can be enjoyed year-round. However, if we have to be picky, there are a few destinations that are just that little bit better during some months than others. So when you’re planning your New Zealand travel itinerary, keep these destinations in mind with our month-by-month guide to the best places to visit in New Zealand!

You’ll notice that New Zealand has different seasons to what you experience in the Northern Hemisphere. In New Zealand, the seasons are summer (December, January and February), autumn (March, April and May), winter (June, July and August) and spring (September, October and November). Find out more about The New Zealand Seasons and Climate and  When is the Best Time to Visit New Zealand?

New Zealand Month-by-Month

Click on the month you are coming to New Zealand to see what there is to do, what the weather is like, and what prices to expect.

• New Zealand in January
• New Zealand in February
• New Zealand in March

New Zealand in April

New zealand in may, new zealand in june, new zealand in july.

• New Zealand in August
• New Zealand in September

New Zealand in October

• New Zealand in November

New Zealand in December

January – northland.

Northland is famous for having the warmest weather in the whole of New Zealand so take full advantage of this in summer! Explore the amazing Bay of Islands, packed with water activities, visit the northernmost point of New Zealand at the Cape Reinga Lighthouse, and enjoy an awesome road trip along the coast.

5 Places You Can’t Miss in Northland

• Paihia for its wealth of water activities and boat trips in the Bay of Islands
• Cape Reinga Lighthouse with awesome views from the northernmost point of New Zealand
• Nighty Mile Beach to do sandboarding on the sand dunes (more info on Viator and Tripadvisor )
• Rainbow Falls in Kerikeri are among some of the most majestic waterfalls in the country
• Poor Knights Islands are a top diving location (more info on Viator and Tripadvisor )!

For more Northland inspiration, see our Northland destination category .

February – Hawke’s Bay

Summer is by far the best time to visit the Hawke’s Bay region of the North Island. Not only does the region’s main city, Napier, host the unmissable Art Deco Festival on the streets of it’s Art Deco style buildings, but the whole coastline is also lined with amazing beaches best experienced when it’s “beach weather”.

5 Places You Can’t Miss in Hawke’s Bay

• The Art Deco Festival in Napier (usually around mid-February)
• Cape Kidnappers to see amazing coastal landscape and the world’s largest mainland gannet colony (more info on Viator and Tripadvisor )
• Waimarama Beach ( see more Hawke’s Bay beaches here )
• Lake Waikaremoana to do one of the New Zealand Great Walks
• Hawke’s Bay Wine Trail – visit all the wineries around Napier and Hastings

Find out more things to do in Hawke’s Bay in our 10 Hawke’s Bay Must-Dos .

March – Gisborne

As the days start to get a little cooler, a good place to still get some consistently good weather is in the Gisborne region of the North Island. It’s also the best time to see the Eastwoodhill Arboretum as the autumn colours start to emerge in the largest collection of Northern Hemisphere trees in the Southern Hemisphere! Gisborne is also a great New Zealand destination for road tripping by campervan!

5 Places You Can’t Miss in Gisborne

• Eastwoodhill Arboretum for their autumn colours!
• The Rere Rockslide and Rere Falls – slide down the world’s longest natural waterslide
• East Cape Lighthouse to watch the sunrise at the easternmost point of New Zealand
• Relax with a glass of wine at the Gisborne Wine Centre or one of the surrounding vineyards
• Walk the longest pier in New Zealand, Tolaga Bay Wharf

Find out more to do in Gisborne in our 10 Must-Dos in Gisborne

April – Milford Sound

April is considered the shoulder season in New Zealand meaning that you often feel like you have the whole country to yourself. Take advantage of this by visiting one of the most popular tourist attractions in New Zealand during it’s quietest time. What’s more, the unpredictable weather means you could see Milford Sound in the sun or dramatic waterfalls under the rain. It’s win-win!

5 Places You Can’t Miss in Milford Sound

• Take a kayak tour or boat cruise in the majestic fiord of Milford Sound
• Take on one of the many walks in the wild Fiordland forest
• Go scuba diving to see black coral
• Walk to one of the many stunning Fiordland lakes like Lake Gunn or Lake Marion
• Enjoy an epic road trip down the Milford Road.

For more things to do in Milford Sound, see Guide to Milford Sound and the Milford Road .

May – Wellington

The weather might be starting to turn to sh*t, but New Zealand’s cultural and political capital is the best place to spend this time between autumn and winter. Packed with lots of indoor activities, Wellington has the Weta Workshop for movie buffs, the Te Papa Museum to learn more about New Zealand, and not to mention all the eateries and bars to enjoy the Kiwi city lifestyle.

5 Places You Can’t Miss in Wellington

• Te Papa Museum is the national museum of New Zealand free entry!
• Take a tour around the Weta Workshop to see how The Lord of the Rings and other movies were made (more info on Viator and Tripadvisor )
• Try the local cuisine by following our guide in Cheap Eats in Wellington
• On a good day, walk around the huge Wellington Botanic Garden
• Check out the Wellington nightlife .

For more Wellington inspiration, see 10 Wellington Must-Dos .

June – Rotorua

As New Zealand starts to plunge into winter, nowhere looks better than the steaming geothermal wonderland of Rotorua. All the steaming lakes, bubbling mud pools, geysers and vibrant formations are much more emphasised in cooler weather.

5 Places in Rotorua You Can’t Miss

• Any of the many geothermal parks to see the earth in action!
• One of the many captivating Maori cultural performances
• The Skyline Gondola for the seriously fun Luge rides (more info on Viator and Tripadvisor )
• One of these 5 Free Natural Hot Pools in Rotorua
• Walk or mountain bike through the Redwoods forest

There’s so much to do in Rotorua, just see 20 Awesome Places to Visit in Rotorua .

July – Queenstown

In the thick of winter, be sure to check out the adventure capital, Queenstown! There are four ski fields within an hour’s drive of the town. Plus, most of its adventure activities can be done even at this time of year. You’ll find that Queenstown is definitely the most lively New Zealand town in winter.

5 Places You Can’t Miss in Queenstown

• The Remarkables ski field is one of the closest ski fields to Queenstown with the best mountain views
• The Kawarau Bungy is the first commercial bungy jumping location in the world (more info on Viator and Tripadvisor )!
• Glenorchy for an awesome road trip with great mountain scenery
• Take on the terrifying Canyon Swing (on Viator and Tripadvisor )
• Keep warm in the Onsen Hot Pools (on Viator and Tripadvisor )

For more Queenstown inspiration, see 10 Queenstown Must-Dos.

August – Methven

For more winter sports fun, don’t miss Methven in the Canterbury region of the South Island. This small town comes alive in winter with the opening of the Mt Hutt Ski Field. Plus, with lots of walking trails, you’ll find plenty more things to do if you don’t want to strap on a pair of skis.

5 Places You Can’t Miss in Methven

• Ski at the Mt Hutt Ski Field
• The Rakaia Gorge for stunning walks and jet boat rides
• Washpen Falls for waterfalls, views and a lagoon with a rowing boat
• The Mt Hutt Forest for a sheltered walk at the base of Mt Hutt
• Paradiso Cinema to cosy up with a movie on a cold winter’s night.

Check out more things to do in 5 Methven Must-Dos .

September – Hamilton

Spring is here and a great time to visit the most famous gardens in New Zealand, the Hamilton Gardens! The Hamilton Gardens is free-entry and packed with stunning themed gardens that will come into bloom during September. Hamilton also makes a great base for exploring the wider Waikato region, such as the surf town of Raglan or even the glowworm caves of Waitomo!

5 Places You Can’t Miss in Hamilton

• The Hamilton Gardens for their amazing blooming spring flowers
• Waitomo caves to do caving and see glowworms
• Raglan to catch some waves before the busy summer season
• Zealong Tea Estate to taste tea in New Zealand’s only tea plantation
• Hobbiton to see how The Lord of Rings was made (more info on Viator and Tripadvisor )

For more things to do in Hamilton, check out the 10 Hamilton Must-Dos .

October – Taupo & Tongariro

Just as the winter has passed and before the summer crowds make their way to New Zealand, Taupo and Tongariro are the best places to visit in October. Walk the most popular day hike in New Zealand, the Tongariro Crossing while there are still remains of snow on the volcano-tops among the volcanic vents and Emerald Lake. It’s also a great time to try out the adventure activities that Taupo has to offer.

5 Places You Can’t Miss in Taupo & Tongariro

• Hike the Tongariro Crossing for its amazing volcano views
• Kayak or take a boat trip to the Maori Rock Carvings on Lake Taupo
• Skydive over New Zealand’s largest lake (more info on Viator and Tripadvisor )
• See the impressive Huka Falls
• Bathe in the natural hot spring at Spa Park

For more Taupo inspiration, see 10 Taupo Must-Dos .

November – Aoraki Mt Cook

Marvel in the majestic mountain landscape in the Aoraki Mt Cook National Park in the South Island! During the last month of spring, the mountain village in the heart of Southern Alps comes alive again for sensation walks, glacier heli-hikes, scenic flights and so much more!

5 Places You Can’t Miss in Aoraki Mt Cook

• The Hooker Valley Walk or one of the other 5 Aoraki Mt Cook Must-Dos
• Take a scenic flight around New Zealand’s highest mountains and longest glaciers (more info on Viator and Tripadvisor )
• Do a glacier heli-hike on the Tasman Glacier (on Viator and Tripadvisor )
• Take a boat tour around the Tasman Glacier Lake among giant icebergs
• Stargaze in the middle of an International Dark Sky Reserve .

For more things to do in Mt Cook, see 5 Aoraki Mt Cook Must-Dos .

December – Bay of Plenty

While Christmastime means snow for much of the Northern Hemisphere, it means summer has just begun in the Southern Hemisphere. It’s a great time to explore the coast of the Bay of Plenty region in the North Island, especially at the pohutukawa trees (the New Zealand Christmas tree) starts to blossom red flowers.

5 Places You Can’t Miss in the Bay of Plenty

• Kayak in Whakatane to the wildlife sanctuary of Whale Island or along the pohutukawa-lined coast of Ohope
• Walk on New Zealand’s only active marine volcano at White Island [Update: White Island tours have been suspended until further notice.]
• Bike the Motu Trails at Opotiki
• Climb The Mount at Mt Maunganui in Tauranga
• Go on a dolphin swimming tour from Tauranga (more info on Viator and Tripadvisor )

For more Bay of Plenty inspiration, see the Bay of Plenty destination category .

More About Which Month to Visit New Zealand

• When is the Best Time to Go Backpacking in New Zealand?
• New Zealand in a Month: Road Trip Itinerary
• The Best Time to Visit New Zealand

Plus, have you planned your route around New Zealand yet? Check out the following itineraries for the best road trip routes!

• North Island in One Week: New Zealand Road Trip Itinerary
• South Island in One Week: New Zealand Road Trip Itinerary
• North Island in Two Weeks: New Zealand Road Trip Itinerary
• South Island in Two Weeks: New Zealand Road Trip Itinerary
• New Zealand in Three Weeks: Road Trip Itinerary

The information in this guide has been compiled from our extensive research, travel and experiences across New Zealand and the South Pacific, accumulated over more than a decade of numerous visits to each destination. Additional sources for this guide include the following:

• Tourism New Zealand (General travel advice - Updated [2024])
• Immigration New Zealand (Visa and immigration advice - Updated [2024])
• New Zealand Customs Service (Customs and Biosecurity - Updated [2024])
• New Zealand Traveller Declaration (NZTD online platform - Updated [2024])
• Tiaki Promise (Care for people place and culture - Updated [2024])
• Safe Travel (NZ travel advisories - Updated [2024])
• Stats NZ (Statistics and travel data - Updated [2024])
• Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency (Road and transport tips - Updated [2024])
• DriveSafe (Road safety - Updated [2024])
• Council websites and freedom camping maps (Local travel advice region by region - Updated [2024])
• AdventureSmart (Know before you go - Update [2024])

Our editorial standards : At NZ Pocket Guide, we uphold strict editorial standards to ensure accurate and quality content.

About The Author

This article has been reviewed and approved by Robin, who is the co-founder of NZ Pocket Guide. With more than 15 years of experience in the New Zealand tourism industry, Robin has co-founded three influential tourism businesses and five additional travel guides for South Pacific nations. He is an expert in New Zealand travel and has tested over 600 activities and 300+ accommodations across the country.

Was this article useful?

Related posts, recommended for you, sending mail overseas from new zealand ✉️ [2024], what are self-contained campervans in new zealand, what you need to know about flying drones in new zealand, destinations, travel tips, connect with us, accommodation.

Welcome/Kia Ora By using this website you agree to our Privacy Policy and terms of use within it which includes sponsored posts and affiliate links.

Connect with us

Welcome/Kia Ora! By using this website you agree to our Privacy Policy and the terms of use within it.

© 2024 NZ Pocket Guide. Contact – Disclaimer – About Us – Our Standards

20 Best Places in New Zealand you must visit

Planning an escape to the whimsical land of New Zealand? Perhaps you’ve been a longtime fan of Lord of the Rings or perhaps you’re just seeking adventure. New Zealand has just that and then some! We’ve compiled a list of the 20 best places in New Zealand you must visit. They’re our top picks for what not to miss!

1. Roy’s Peak, Wanaka

Roy’s Peak is one of the most iconic photographic locations in all of New Zealand. Just one look at this photo and it isn’t hard to see why tourists flock there! It is a 5-8 hour hike to the top, but if you’re well-equipped and reasonably fit, it should take you about six hours. Add another hour to stay at the summit, take photos and snack on some lunch and you probably have a seven-hour hike, round-trip.

Read more: Where to hike in New Zealand’s South Island during Winter

Dunedin is not a destination you will read on many “must see” places in New Zealand and to be honest, I still don’t know why. It is a beautiful city on the southeast coast on the South Island with a really great atmosphere. This city is known for its huge student population, so there’s a really great cafe scene and cheap eats can be found on every corner. From there, one of the most beautiful scenic drives is a little further south.

Read more: How to travel around New Zealand in a van

3. Hobbiton

It took me three visits to New Zealand to finally visit Hobbiton. The film set can be visited as a paying guest and isn’t too far from Auckland. You can very easily join a tour if you don’t have your own transport, or you can reach Hobbiton by car in a little over two hours. I would recommend an early morning or late afternoon tour so you can skip the crowds. Here’s everything you need to know to visit Hobbiton .

4. Queenstown

Queenstown is one of those cities that lives up to the hype. It is commonly regarded as the epicentre of tourism in New Zealand, but with so much going for it, we can see why! The town itself has a lot of great cafes, vegan eateries and small local boutiques. But the beauty of Queenstown is its position in the midst of gorgeous scenery, ski slopes and endless day hikes. This photo was taken from my suite at Matakauri Lodge , easily the most beautiful lodge in the area.

5. Mount Maunganui

Mount Maunganui is one of the most underrated gems in New Zealand’s North Island. Locals know of its existence and flock here for the summer, but international visitors not so much. It is the kind of beach town that has just the right amount of sleepiness, with just enough activities to keep you busy.

6. Paradise, Glenorchy

There truly is a place in New Zealand called paradise. Hard to believe, no? I guess not when you take one look at this photo. Paradise is not too far from Glenorchy, which is not too far from Queenstown. You will soon discover that the South Island is full of beautiful locations as pretty as a postcard and this is one of them. For the ultimate escape, I checked in to Aro Ha yoga retreat for a full week. It was an intensive yoga course complete with vegan meals, hiking in the local area, and daily yoga practice.

7. Marlborough

There are few places that are as made for food and wine consumption as Marlborough, New Zealand . This area has become famous the world over for being one of the best locations to grow and make sauvignon blanc. Indeed, I even stayed at a vineyard when I was visiting! But aside from the wine, there is also really great produce here as there is across New Zealand. I was especially fond of the goat’s cheese, honey and pine nuts that are grown or manufactured in the area.

Not many people who travel to New Zealand have Twizel on their roadmap. It is a small town in the middle of nowhere, but it is also the gateway to Mount Cook (Aoraki), New Zealand’s tallest mountain. During my time in Twizel, I stayed at High Country Cabin which I booked through AirBnB. I’d recommend staying here a few nights to slow down and soak up the atmosphere of the mountains.

9. Aoraki / Mount Cook

As the tallest mountain in New Zealand, Aoraki / Mount Cook is a sight for the eyes. The summit stands at an impressive 3,724 metres tall. A great way to experience the mountain (especially in the colder months) is to take a small sightseeing plane or helicopter to the Tasman glacier. Be sure to allow for a few days in between your plans, as I waited 3 full days of bad weather before being able to fly.

10. Kawarau Gorge

There are many beautiful locations in and around Queenstown, but Kawarau Gorge is one of my favourites. It is a short drive from the centre of town and a great pit stop on your way to nearby Arrowtown. Here you will find lots of great stores to meander through, as well as some beautiful eateries.

11. Lindis Pass

As you make your way around New Zealand you will quickly become accustomed to beautiful scenery. There’s no denying it! But there are some roads that are more spectacular than others, and Lindis Pass is one of them. The pass lies between Queenstown and Wanaka, so if you are driving around the South Island it will be impossible not to drive through it. The scenery is dramatic and changes daily, so be sure to stop at one of the rest stops if you wish to take pictures.

12. Rotorua Hot Springs

If you find yourself in the North Island of New Zealand, it is less about dramatic sceneries and more about hidden gems. The North island is full of different activities and endless coastal beach towns, while the South Island is where you will find adventure, mountains and ski slopes. One of my favourite day trips was from Mount Maunganui where we were staying, to nearby Rotorua Hot Springs. The springs are a great day excursion and have healing remedies.

13. Nugget point lighthouse

Back in the South Island, remember when I told you about Dunedin? Not many travellers visit this coastal city, and even fewer travel further down the southeast coast. But if you do, you will find the beautiful nugget point lighthouse which sits quietly in its own presence. I visited for sunrise and it was one of the most memorable mornings in the South Island.

14. Auckland

Of course no visit to New Zealand would be complete without visiting the cultural capital (but not the capital per se), Auckland. This city is brimming with pop up coffee shops, local designers and trendy eateries on every corner. This city is great to spend two nights exploring, alongside a day trip for good measure. You might choose Hobbiton or a visit to one of the beautiful beach towns only a short hour’s drive away.

15. South Island Road Trip

Sometimes the journey is the destination itself! My favourite memory of all my trips to New Zealand has been travelling around the South Island in a rental van. This was a great way to get from point to point, without ever worrying too much about making it to destinations. We would just pull up at a camping ground, park for the night, and be on our way again. The South Island is certainly better suited to this style of adventure and the scenery is unforgettable.

Read more: How to travel through New Zealand in a van

16. Cardrona Ski Slopes

If you are visiting New Zealand in winter, then you won’t want to miss an opportunity to hit the slopes! While Queenstown is the most popular ski location for visitors, nearby Cardrona is the choice for kiwis. It is closer in distance to Wanaka, which is also a cheaper option for accommodation. There are ski chalets for rent on the slopes themselves, however these book out at least a year in advance.

17. Cape Kidnappers

Cape Kidnappers is one of the lesser-known locations on this list, but it is still one of my favourites. I stayed at this hotel as part of visiting other Robertson Lodges (Matakauri in Queenstown and Kauri Cliffs in the Bay of Islands). If your budget allows, it is one of the most beautiful lodges in the entire country.

Read more: Checking in to Cape Kidnappers

18. The Milky Way

Sometimes the best places in New Zealand are all around you! The Milky Way is extremely easy to see in clear skies, especially if you are out in nature away from light pollution. We caught a glimpse of it one night in Twizel, surrounded by nothing but open space and a handful of sheep who live at High Country Cabin.

Jeff Finley via Unsplash

19. Milford Sound

Of all the best places in New Zealand, we all know this list would be incomplete without Milford Sound! The famous fjordlands of the South Island have long been one of the most popular spots for tourists visiting New Zealand. As impressive as they are, make sure you’re prepared to share the beauty with plenty more visitors. This is one of the most sought after locations in the entire country!

Peter Hammer via Unsplash

20. Lake Tekapo

Lake Tekapo is one of the best places in New Zealand for photographers, but only during a small window when the lupins are in bloom. The beautiful flowers are best in late November and have become a popular spot for photographers and the Instagram crowd.

Brooke Saward founded World of Wanderlust as a place to share inspiration from her travels and to inspire others to see our world. She now divides her time between adventures abroad and adventures in the kitchen, with a particular weakness for French pastries.

Find me on: Twitter | Instagram | Facebook

Los Angeles

Plan a trip

First trip solo

Packing guide

20 Best Places for Solo Female Travel

Travel after a break up

20 Places in your 20’s

WAYS TO TRAVEL

Solo travel

Adventure travel

Luxury travel

Learn a language

Become a blogger

The 16 Best Places to Visit in New Zealand

Posted on April 15, 2023 | Julie J. |

Last Updated on July 18, 2023

New Zealand is the perfect destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers . With a seemingly endless list of bucket-list-worthy things to see and do, deciding on where to go in New Zealand can be a challenge. To narrow things down, we’ve rounded up 16 of the most incredible places to visit in New Zealand . 

From dramatic mountain ranges and otherworldly glaciers to stunning beaches and crystal-clear lakes, New Zealand landscapes will take your breath away. The remote country is also home to quaint towns, sumptuous dining experiences, and unique wildlife.

Read on to discover the best New Zealand destinations and start planning your next trip!

HELPFUL WEBSITES TO HELP YOU PLAN YOUR TRIP

FLIGHT DEALS

HOTEL DEALS

TRAVEL INSURANCE

VACATION RENTALS

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links, which means that if you click on any links and make a purchase, we’ll get a small commission, at no cost to you.

Cape Reinga

Cape Reinga is the northernmost tip of the country and should definitely be added to your New Zealand’s North Island itinerary.

It is a stunning natural spot where the Tasman Sea and the Pacific Ocean collide. The focal point of Cape Reinga is a 1940s lighthouse that is still in operation today. Surrounded by rugged cliffs and rolling green hills , it is a majestic sight to behold.

Cape Reinga also has spiritual significance in the Māori culture. It is believed to be a place of leaping from where the spirits of the deceased depart for the afterlife. As Cape Reinga is considered a sacred place, please refrain from eating there when visiting.

On the way to Cape Reinga make sure to stop at the nearby Ninety Mile Beach . Although it is actually 88 kilometers long, the beach is a great place for adventure lovers. From surfing and bodyboarding down sand dunes to 4WD rides and quad-biking , there is plenty to keep you busy.

The Ninety Mile Beach is also a great place to watch the sunset to finish the perfect day of exploring a beautiful part of New Zealand.

A car is the best way to explore the Cape Reinga area as it offers the most flexibility. The drive from Kaitaia, the closest town, takes about 1,5 hours. Alternatively, you can join a guided tour . They depart from Kaitaia and Paihia, another popular base for exploring the top of the North Island. These tours normally stop at the Ninety Mile Beach too. 

Click Here to See Accommodation Options Near Cape Reinga

This bohemian island boasts award-winning vineyards, a beautiful coastline, numerous hiking trails, and a raft of quirky art galleries .

Located just a 40-minute ferry ride from central Auckland, Waiheke feels a world away from the hustle and bustle of New Zealand’s biggest city. You can visit the island on a day trip or stay longer to explore everything it has to offer.

If you’re into active pursuits such as kayaking, mountain biking, or surfing , Waiheke has got you covered. Don’t worry, for those who would rather take things slow, there are plenty of options too. While away an afternoon at a gorgeous beach or take your time to explore the Waiheke Art Trail . When you need to refuel, go for a wine tasting and a delicious lunch with a view.

Speaking of wine, the island is home to 30 vineyards . Waiheke is famous for its reds such as Merlot, Malbec, and Cabernet Sauvignon, but you can easily find white and rose varieties too. There are tour companies that organize tastings at multiple wineries , but you can do this independently too. Many wineries also have restaurants with incredible views and various activities for the whole family. 

You can explore Waiheke by bus or taxi . The former is an affordable way to get around, but the bus network doesn’t cover the whole island. You might struggle to get to some of the more remote wineries such as Passage Rock or Man’o’War. Taxis are more flexible but are also pricey. Renting a car offers the most flexibility. However, if you are planning to do wine tastings, make sure that you have a sober driver. 

Click Here to See Accommodation Options in Waiheke

The Coromandel

Located on the east coast of New Zealand’s North Island, the Coromandel is a popular holiday destination for locals and tourists alike. Just a two-hour drive away from Auckland , this region is a paradise for outdoor pursuits with a slower pace of life.

The Coromandel offers an incredible diversity of landscapes from dense forests and steep mountains to golden beaches and beautiful waterfalls . It is also home to quaint historic towns with a strong community feel. 

It is the perfect place to experience the laid-back Kiwi lifestyle . Take to the many hiking trails, have a beach picnic, explore the coastline by kayak, or enjoy an afternoon of wine tasting at a local vineyard. Many artists and craftspeople have made the Coromandel home. If you are looking for a unique souvenir from New Zealand, check out their studios scattered around the peninsula.

The Coromandel’s arguably most famous spot is Cathedral Cove . It features a picturesque naturally formed rock archway that connects two sandy coves. Cathedral Cove’s beauty even earned it a spot as a filming location for Narnia films. To get there, take the scenic coastal path from the nearby Hahei Beach, which is a gem in its own right.  

Another popular Coromandel spot that is worth adding to your itinerary is the Hot Water Beach . This is where you can dig your own hot pool just meters away from the Pacific Ocean. Make sure to do it when it’s two hours on either side of low tide. Otherwise, the sandy area with the hot water underneath will be underwater. 

Click Here to See Accommodation Options in Coromandel

The Hobbiton Movie Set is probably one of the most famous places to visit in New Zealand’s North Island. Located in a sleepy town called Matamata , just a two-hour drive away from Auckland, it is a real-life movie set that was used in the Peter Jackson’s Lord of the Rings and Hobbiton movie trilogies based on J. R. R. Tolkien’s novels. 

A visit to Hobbiton involves a guided tour of the set surrounded by picturesque rolling countryside. You will get to see the quaint hobbit holes, enjoy a pint of locally brewed beer or cider at the Green Dragon Inn and hear the stories from behind the scenes. The guides are friendly and are always happy to assist with taking photos. 

The standard guided tour is normally two hours long. The tickets are NZ $89.00 (US $55) per person. Extended tour options that include an evening or morning meal are also available. You can get to the Hobbiton Movie Set independently or join a guided tour . Coaches depart from Auckland, Hamilton, and Tauranga. 

If you are not a big fan of the movies, the movie set might seem overly touristy. However, if you do love them, the Hobbiton will give you a chance to experience a little Middle Earth magic again. 

Waitomo Caves

Experience the magic of natural bioluminescence at Waitomo Caves . This phenomenon is created by Arachnocampa luminosa , also known as a glowworm. This species is endemic to New Zealand and commonly found in caves, grottos, and sometimes even deep woodland. 

Although it is possible to see glowworms in many parts of New Zealand, Waitomo Caves offers one of the most spectacular bioluminescence displays in the country . These ancient limestone caves were formed millennia ago by the activity of underground water. They feature an intricate underground network of caverns, tunnels, grottos, and underground rivers.

You can visit Waitomo Caves on a guided tour with prices starting from NZ $61 (US $38) per person. The highlight is a boat ride through the Glowworm Grotto where you can see thousands of glowworms . There are so many of them there that you can easily forget that you are underground as the cave ceiling looks just like the sky on a starry night. The boat ride is done in silence to make sure that the glowworms are not disturbed. This just adds to the otherworldly experience of it all. 

If you are after something more adventurous, Waitomo Caves offer adrenaline-filled activities such as blackwater rafting , abseiling, and zip-lining through glowworm caves . Also, Waitomo is not the only cave that you can visit in the area. Additional guided tours will take you down the nearby Ruakuri and Aranui Caves . You might not see huge displays of glowworms there, but they have incredible rock formations that are worth a look.

Click Here to See Accommodation Options near the Waitomo Caves

Tongariro National Park

Located in the heart of New Zealand’s North Island, Tongariro National Park is the country’s oldest national park . It is also a dual UNESCO World Heritage Site , recognizing both its unique natural features and cultural significance to the Māori people.

Tongariro National Park is famous for its unique Martian-like landscapes and three active volcanic mountains . One of them, Mount Ngauruhoe, has even starred as Mount Doom in the Lord of the Rings movies. The park is a popular destination for hiking, mountain biking, and skiing in the winter months.

The most famous hike in the area is the Tongariro Alpine Crossing . Considered the best day walk in New Zealand, this track is just under 20 kilometers long and will take you around 7-8 hours to complete . It requires a good level of fitness as it crosses rugged terrain. However, you will be rewarded with incredible views along the way. 

The best time to do this hike is between November and May . From June to October the weather becomes unpredictable and there is a heightened risk of snow and avalanches. Unless you are an experienced mountaineer, don’t attempt this hike then.

The best places to stay for easy access to Tongariro National Park are the nearby villages of National Park, Whakapapa, and Ohakune. They offer a variety of accommodation options for every budget. You can normally organize a transfer to the park through your accommodation . Guided tours of the area are also available.

Click Here to See Accommodation Options near Tongariro National Park

New Zealand’s small but perfectly formed capital is the nation’s political and cultural heart. Nestled in a picturesque harbor at the bottom of the North Island, allow for a couple of days to experience the best activities and sites of Wellington .

Wellington has a compact and walkable city center with many museums, eateries, and bars on offer. Make sure to check out the amazing Te Papa Museum to learn about New Zealand’s history and culture. Visit the New Zealand Parliament Buildings on a free guided tour to get a glimpse into how the country’s democracy works.

The capital also offers plenty of opportunities to spend time outdoors . On a sunny day, nothing beats a walk or a bike ride along Wellington’s beautiful waterfront . To get away from the hustle of the city, visit the picturesque Wellington Botanic Gardens or Zealandia , an urban sanctuary that protects New Zealand’s unique flora and fauna. 

Fans of Peter Jackson’s films can visit the famous Weta Studios on a guided tour . This creative institution produced special effects, costumes, and props for the Lord of the Rings and the Hobbit movies, as well as other Hollywood blockbusters. 

Wellington is also a foodie destination with an ever-growing list of excellent cafes, restaurants, and breweries. Experience the best of New Zealand produce at Shepherd and Logan Brown , the capital’s fine dining institutions. For the best street food, check out the lively Wellington night markets where you can try foods from all over the world. 

If you are looking for a sweet treat, head to the Wellington Chocolate Factory which specializes in organic and ethically sourced chocolate. You can load up on delicious chocolate bars or enjoy a heart-warming hot chocolate in their store. Or you can even become a chocolatier for the day on one of their guided tours. 

Click Here to See Accommodation Options In Wellington

Abel Tasman National Park

Abel Tasman is New Zealand’s smallest and most accessible national park . Located on the northern end of the South Island , it is famous for its golden sand beaches, crystal clear waters, and beautiful coastline dotted with unique granite formations. 

The park is a popular spot for hiking, kayaking, and camping . The native forests and waters of Abel Tasman are teeming with wildlife, including several endangered species. As you walk through the woods you will be treated to bird songs by tuis and bellbirds. When out at sea, you can spot little blue penguins and fur seals lounging on the rocks along the coast.

The most famous hike in the park is the Abel Tasman Coast Track . At 60 kilometers long, it takes three to five days to complete. Along the way, you can enjoy stunning views, quiet bays, and beautiful beaches. If a multi-day track is not an option, you can still do a section of the track on a day trip . There are water taxis that can drop you off and pick you up at specific spots along the track.

The park is easily accessible from the city of Nelson or the nearby villages of Kaiteriteri, Motueka, and Marahau. You can explore Abel Tasman independently or join an organized tour ( check out this Cruise and Hiking Combo ). The latter is likely to offer a pickup service directly from your accommodation. 

Click Here to See Accommodation Options Near the Park

The sleepy town of Blenheim lies in the heart of the Marlborough region. Located in the northeast of the South Island, Marlborough is New Zealand’s largest wine-producing region . Some of the world’s best Sauvignon Blancs start their life there. If you’re more of a red wine aficionado, make sure to try the local Pinot Noir.

Blenheim itself is not the most exciting town, although there are a few small museums and historic sites that are worth a look. However, it’s a great base for exploring the nearby wineries and culinary scene . Most of the Marlborough vineyards are just a 30-minute drive away from Blenheim’s town center.

One of the best ways to explore the local vineyards is by e-bike . You can hire one for the day and visit multiple cellar doors. Small–group wine tours are also an option. These are great if cycling seems like too much work. Many wineries also have restaurants on-site, perfect for when you need to recharge.

Keep in mind that some vineyards get extremely busy on shore days. The nearby town of Picton is a popular cruise stop. A visit to the Marlborough region is a popular day trip for cruisers . As a result, many restaurants may be packed for lunch. It might be worth booking a table at your preferred vineyard eatery in advance to avoid disappointment.

Click Here to See Accommodation Options In Blenheim

Located on the east coast of New Zealand’s South Island, Kaikoura is a picturesque small town nestled between the mountains and the Pacific Ocean. Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty of ways to make the most of this town’s stunning natural surroundings . 

Enjoy the views of the coastline and mountains by hitting Kaikoura’s hiking trails. The 11-kilometer Kaikoura Peninsula Walkway is a great option for that. Kayaking is another great way to experience the beauty of the area. If you are after an adrenaline rush, the local mountain bike trails will keep your heart pumping.

Although Kaikoura has a raft of fun activities to keep you busy, this town’s claim to fame is its abundant marine life. The waters surrounding Kaikoura are home to sperm whales, humpback whales, and orcas . You can take a boat tour to see them in their natural habitat. Apart from whale-watching, visitors to Kaikoura can enjoy swimming with dolphins and fur seals . However, they are all wild, so sightings are not guaranteed. 

With its wealth of marine life, it is not surprising that Kaikoura is also a seafood destination. From humble fish and chips on the beach to high-end establishments, there is a raft of options for enjoying local produce. Kaikoura’s most famous specialty is crayfish, so make sure to add it to the list of things to try while you are there.

Click Here to See Accommodation Options In Kaikoura

Located on the Banks Peninsula southeast of Christchurch, the South Island’s biggest city, Akaroa is a quaint town with a strong French connection. It was founded by French settlers in the 19 th century . Their legacy is the French street names and charming historic buildings.

On your visit to Akaroa, make sure to take a stroll along its quiet streets, check out the historic houses such as the Giant’s House, and visit the Akaroa Museum.  

When it comes to dining, Akaroa is true to its French roots. The local bakery serves up delicious French pastries and crepes , while a few bistro-style restaurants are the perfect places to experience the local produce. There is even a vineyard where you can enjoy wine tasting and views over the Akaroa harbor. 

One of the most famous experiences in Akaroa is wildlife encounters with Hector’s Dolphins . These dolphins are the rarest and smallest dolphin species in the world . You can only see them in the waters around New Zealand’s South Island. The Banks Peninsula boasts the highest population of Hector’s Dolphins in the country. 

You can see Hector’s Dolphins in the wild by joining a small group swimming experience . These dolphins are sociable and curious by nature. They are likely to swim up close to you when you are in the water. However, as they are wild, they might not always appear on cue.   

Click Here to See Accommodation Options In Akaroa

Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park

Mount Cook is New Zealand’s tallest mountain with a height of 3,754 meters. Mount Cook is part of the Aoraki Mount Cook National Park , home to 23 peaks that are over 3,000 meters tall. This area of the South Island is famous for its dramatic alpine scenery, epic glaciers and incredible night sky uninterrupted by light pollution.

You can climb Mount Cook, but this is not a track for the faint-hearted. Unless you have some serious mountaineering skills, it’s better to simply enjoy it from a distance. Thankfully, the national park and the joy of mountains are easily accessible to all.

To visit the Aoraki Mount Cook National Park, head to the Aoraki/Mt Cook Village located on the shores of the picturesque Lake Pukaki. The village is a starting point for 10 fantastic day walks that showcase different sections of the park. The Hooker Valley Track is arguably the most popular one as you can enjoy breath-taking views of Mount Cook along the journey. It takes 3-4 hours to complete and is suitable for all levels of fitness.

Apart from hiking, the area is also great for stargazing, skiing, and glacier lake kayaking . If you’d like to take a bird’s eye view over the national park, you can take a scenic flight or helicopter ride . The latter also gives you the option to land in remote areas of the park that are not easily accessible otherwise. 

When you’re ready to take a break from all the activity, head to The Old Mountaineers Café or the Hermitage Hotel in Aoraki/Mount Cook Village to refuel and enjoy epic mountain views. 

This South Island gem of a town is easily one the most popular places to visit in New Zealand. Nestled between the stunning Lake Wakatipu and the Southern Alps, Queenstown is the country’s adventure capital . It offers a raft of fun activities for adrenaline seekers, vibrant nightlife, and a burgeoning dining scene. 

Queenstown is the place to be for those looking to experience bungee jumping, skydiving, and white-water rafting . The first-ever commercial bungee jump took place from the Kawarau Bridge, located near the town. This bungee jump spot is still in operation today.

If jumping off bridges and planes doesn’t sound like you, Queenstown offers other fun activities. There are plenty of hiking trails offering spectacular views over the surrounding area. Some of them, like the Bob’s Peak track , are accessible right from the town center. It’s steep, but you will be rewarded with amazing views at the top.

For a more relaxing experience, consider taking a cruise along Lake Wakatipu . Board the TSS Earnslaw vintage steamship to enjoy the beautiful alpine setting at a leisurely pace. You can also explore the lake by kayaking and paddleboarding . Careful about going into the water though, it’s incredibly cold.

Queenstown is also a great base for exploring other big-hitter attractions such as Milford Sound . Keep in mind though that the town can get extremely busy during the high season (the summer months). Book your accommodation and experiences in advance to avoid disappointment.

Click Here to See Accommodation Options In Queenstown

Milford Sound

When it comes to natural attractions, Milford Sound is the jewel in New Zealand’s crown. The sound, which is technically a fiord, is part of the Te Wahipounamu UNESCO World Heritage Site . It covers the southwestern section of the South Island and includes four national parks . Milford Sound is part of the Fiordland National Park .

Milford Sound is a spot of immense natural beauty. It brings together towering mountains, lush rainforests, cascading waterfalls, and crystal-clear Tasman Sea waters . The fiord is teeming with wildlife from fur seals and adorable penguins to dolphins and even whales.

One of the best ways to experience Milford Sound is by taking a scenic cruise . You can spend just a few hours on a boat or opt for a luxurious overnight option. If you’d like to get up close to the natural wonders of Milford Sound, take a kayak tour . The waters in the fiord are generally calm making it easy to enjoy the beautiful surroundings.

One of the reasons for Milford Sound’s popularity is its accessibility. There are other fiords in the area, but getting there requires a lot more effort. In contrast, Milford Sound is accessible by car . If you are driving from Queenstown, the drive takes about 4 hours .

It is a stunning route, so although long, you will be rewarded with incredible views along the way. If you would rather not drive, there is a huge selection of organized tours that will take you there.

Milford Sound is one of the most well-known New Zealand attractions, so be prepared to share the experience with many others. It is especially busy during the summer months when the weather conditions are the best.   

Click Here to See Accommodation Options In Milford Sound

Just an hour’s drive from Queenstown, Wanaka is another beautiful town sitting on the shores of a namesake alpine lake and surrounded by epic mountains. However, it has a more low-key and relaxed feel compared to its glitzy cousin.

Wanaka does not offer much in terms of nightlife, but o utdoor enthusiasts will be delighted by all the adventures this picturesque spot offers.

From relaxing lakeside strolls and paddleboarding the crystal-clear lake waters to rock climbing and skiing during the winter season, there is something for everyone in Wanaka. If you are up for a challenge, why not hike the Roy’s Peak Track ? This 16-kilometer trail involves a steep ascent, but your hard work will be rewarded with incredible views over Lake Wanaka and the surrounding mountains.

If you are looking for a fun activity for the whole family, check out Wanaka’s weird and wonderful Puzzling World . It brings together optical illusion rooms and a multi-level mega maze that is sure to delight and challenge.

For something more relaxing, head to Cinema Paradiso , Wanaka’s iconic movie-watching experience. It even features half-time intervals and delicious homemade treats.

Wanaka is also a great place for foodies. You can find several excellent restaurants serving international cuisines right in the heart of its lakeside village. From modern pan-Asian eats to classic Italian comfort eats, there is something for every taste.

To top this off, the town is home to a selection of boutique wineries. Make sure to book a tasting at Rippon Vineyard located right on the lakeshore.

Click Here to See Accommodation Options In Wanaka

The West Coast of New Zealand’s South Island is an area of rugged and wild beauty. Visit its lush rainforests and geological wonders, marvel at ancient glaciers and rugged mountains, and experience the pioneering New Zealand spirit of its historic towns. 

The best way to explore this New Zealand destination is by car. The West Coast’s towns and natural attractions are connected by State Highway 6 . The region’s main artery is narrow and winding, but it passes through some of the most incredible scenery in the country . You can travel this region by coach too , but it’s not always the most flexible option.

Make sure to visit the Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers where ice, rainforests, waterfalls, and towering mountains come together to create an unforgettable landscape. These glaciers are easily accessible by foot with multiple hiking trails available . If you’d like to spend more time in this part of the West Coast, there is a small namesake township near each glacier with different accommodation options.

Another must-see section of the region is Haast Pass , located within the Te Wahipounamu UNESCO World Heritage Site. Haast Pass is a hiker’s paradise with numerous short walks and multi-day hikes that will take you through spectacular alpine scenery. The Blue Pools is a popular short walk option. This relatively easy track showcases unforgettable turquoise-color lakes fed by alpine streams.

Learn about the history of the region at the small coastal town of Hokitika . Enjoy its historic buildings, hear the tales of shipwrecks and the gold rush, and explore artisan shops and art galleries. The town also boasts rugged beaches and a raft of walking trails . You can easily spend a few days in the area.

Things to Know Before Traveling to New Zealand

• Being remote comes at a price and you will find that the country is an expensive destination. If you’re on a budget, the best time to visit New Zealand is during the shoulder seasons between April and May and September and October, with better value and good weather . The high season is during New Zealand’s summer months between December and February. This is when accommodation and flight prices are the highest.
• To keep experience costs down, keep an eye on websites such as Bookme and Grab One for deals on activities and dining. Cooking your own meals will also help you cut food costs. 
• New Zealand weather is unpredictable even in the summer, so make sure to pack extra layers and waterproofs . Bring sturdy shoes for hiking . Do not attempt to go into the wilderness in flip-flops. 
• New Zealand is highly dependent on cars. Outside major urban centers, public transport is extremely limited . If driving is not an option, consider taking flights between major cities and using the coach network to get to smaller settlements (e.g., the ones on the West Coast).
• New Zealanders drive on the left-hand side of the road, so be extra careful if you are used to driving on the other side. The country has a higher-than-average rate of preventable road deaths compared to other developed countries. This is mainly due to bad driver behavior and poor road infrastructure. If you are not a confident driver, it might be best to take advantage of the local coach network.
• Always wear sunblock and protect yourself from the sun. New Zealand has high levels of UV radiation, and you can get sunburnt even on a cloudy day. New Zealand has one of the highest skin cancer rates in the world, so it’s best to be safe than sorry.
• Be realistic about your itinerary – although the country seems small, it still takes time to get from one major attraction to another. You also need to allow more time if you are tackling more remote areas with winding rural roads. Your GPS might not always provide the most accurate timing information. 

Article written by Ksenia Khor

Save it on Pinterest for later:

Related posts:

No related posts.

9 things only New Zealand locals know

Oct 12, 2023 • 8 min read

Peak UV levels can be 40% higher in New Zealand than similar North American latitudes, so sunscreen is a must-have © nazar_ab / Getty Images

While I was born and bred here in  New Zealand – or Aotearoa, the country's Māori-language name – I’ve spent enough years away to understand how it’s a destination that can feel comfortingly familiar and completely strange to visitors all at once. 

The butter is bright, beta-carotene yellow. Pies are filled with meat. You usually go up to the counter to pay for your meal. Never, ever sit on a table – it’s a taboo that has spread from Māori to the wider population.  

But this diverse country of boiling mud pools, soaring mountains, subtropical beaches, rainforests and friendly people will make you feel – well, "sweet-as." (Yes, that means good.) Here are some things to know before going to New Zealand. 

1. New Zealand’s weather may be relatively mild – but it also has the potential to be wild

An archipelago in the Pacific, New Zealand is a long, skinny country moored in tempestuous oceans heavily influenced by Antarctica. Its landmass stretches between 34 and 47 degrees south – the rough equivalent of northern Morocco to southern France – and the climate is often compared to Britain’s. 

What does this all mean? The weather can turn bad quickly. It pays to pack for all seasons, with a hat and sunscreen being must-haves. New Zealand’s peak UV levels can be 40% higher than those in similar North American latitudes, thanks in part to its clean air. For some, a blistering burn can happen in minutes and will ruin your holiday for a good week or more. In summer, perhaps plan shadier activities, such as museums, for the peak hours of the day.  

2. It’s okay to dress down

Casualness rules in New Zealand, even in urban areas. Depending on what region you’re in, even a wedding might see some Kiwis in jeans, their cleanest bush shirt (a tough woolen shirt) and gumboots (rubber boots) or jandals (flip flops). This is unremarkable.

Something particularly disconcerting to travelers is New Zealanders’ penchant for bare feet. When you’re out of the main cities you’ll see tough-soled Kiwis hot-stepping over bubbling tarmac and strolling through the supermarket unshod. Feel free to pack casual clothes. 

3. What do you mean, there’s no bus?

Unbelievably, New Zealand’s public transport  was arguably far better in the mid-20th century. But with many tram and railways ripped up for the sake of roads, the country has become very car-dependent. 

With a population of only 5.2 million living on a landmass the size of Italy, car culture is proving difficult to shake. While cycling and public transport are making strong incursions, outside of Auckland there is nowhere near the density, quality, affordability and regularity of public transport you may be used to at home. Many New Zealand towns do not even have Uber or other rideshare apps. 

With that being said, the country is reasonably well set up for visitors. For example, there are regular shuttle services to popular tourist destinations, such as Hobbiton and Waitomo Caves – but it pays to plan your transport well ahead.

4. Biculturalism is at the heart of Aotearoa’s culture

Unlike many colonized nations, in 1840 the British Crown signed a founding treaty, the  Treaty of Waitangi  with Indigenous Māori, who have lived in New Zealand since at least the 1300s. Although colonization’s effect on Māori continues to spark debate and protest, the result is that modern New Zealand is a strongly bicultural nation. Te ao Māori (the Māori worldview) is an integral part of even everyday interactions. This is evident to visitors, who have countless Indigenous-led tours, eateries and experiences to choose from. 

To show respect, ask about local iwi (tribe) customs. As an example, don’t stand on the summit of maunga (mountains) including Ngāuruhoe (Mt Doom in the Lord of the Rings films) or Taranaki, if you go for a hike. As the head of an ancestor, mountain tops are regarded as tapu (sacred). New Zealand’s most famous son, Sir Edmund Hillary, may have said “we knocked the bastard off” when he and Tenzing Norgay climbed Everest in 1953, but modern travelers don’t have to. 

Many place names and road signs are also in te reo Māori (the Māori language). When it comes to speaking it, Kiwis will appreciate you trying to pronounce the words as accurately as possible. ("Wh," for example, is generally pronounced "F.")  An online pronunciation guide or podcast can help you with some of the more unfamiliar sounds; try Everyday Māori .

5. If you want to make local friends, ask about our birds 

New Zealanders absolutely love talking about their native birds and will immediately consider you a "good sort" (a kind and likable person) if you show interest. 

But prepare to settle in. From tūī, kererū (wood pigeons),  pīwakawaka (fantails) or whio (blue ducks), everyone has their favorite. Conservation organization Forest and Bird even runs a hotly contested Bird of the Year competition.

We love our birds because we understand how precious they are. Many are endangered, some critically so. New Zealand was a paradise of birds before people arrived around the 1300s, bringing with them rats, pigs, dogs, stoats, mice, cats, rabbits, weasels and possums. These have wreaked havoc and sent biodiversity  plummeting ; in the last 1,000 years, 40 indigenous species have become extinct. (Thank goodness early settlers did not introduce the mongoose to control the rabbit population, as was suggested in the 19th century.) 

The country is currently in the first 10 years of its Predator Free 2050 strategy, which aims to wipe out as many introduced mammals as possible by 2050. It is hugely ambitious and has resulted in a massive groundswell of support as everyday Kiwis exercise their bloodlust, setting rat traps in the backyard.

As a traveler, you'll encounter many tourism operators doing the same. You can learn more about these efforts as you zipline across regenerating forests at Rotorua Canopy Tours or stay at Maruia River Retreat , which is in the process of converting to a fully electric resort powered by renewable sources. Projects are even popping up where tourists can help check traplines, such as Tongariro River Rafting's Blue Duck Experience .

Predator-free bird sanctuaries abound in many areas, including the  Zealandia  sanctuary in Wellington, a sprawling and peaceful city oasis where you may be lucky enough to see wild kiwi on a guided night tour. 

6. ACC is a wonder – but not a replacement for travel insurance

One of the most humane things about New Zealand is its no-fault accident compensation scheme, ACC . Fall and break your leg skiing? Get a bit banged-up on a big night out? It doesn’t matter whose fault it is and that you’re a tourist; if it’s an accident, your medical care is free. 

Of course, you’ll need to have your own travel insurance. There are a lot of things – such as travel delays or extra accommodation needs – that ACC won’t cover if you get injured. 

7. New Zealand is generally safe, but… 

 New Zealand is a safe and welcoming country, but crime happens. For travelers, avoiding downtown clubbing areas after midnight is a good way to avoid most problems. Tourist vans can be a goldmine for thieves, and targeted especially when parked at freedom camping sites. 

Many travelers have had an unfortunate souvenir of their time in New Zealand: a local newspaper article about how they lost everything in a break-in, ruining their dream Kiwi holiday. If you need urgent help, the emergency number is 111. 

8. Pies are savory, not sweet

Kiwis love international cuisine, and you should be able to find something vaguely familiar to eat, especially in the main centers. But try a few quintessentially New Zealand treats, too. Other than the fun you’ll have browsing the supermarket and trying every block of Whittaker’s chocolate on the market, roadside eateries (called "tearooms") and cafes offer a range of snacks. 

One of the most filling and affordable small meals is a savory pie, sold just about everywhere. They’re golden, crispy pastry cases with fillings like butter chicken, mince (beef) and cheese, and steak and mushroom. Hint: The best pies are made in the local bakery. To get a winner, choose pies sold in plain white paper bags (not branded plastic) and bite into it straight from the bag. 

If you’re down south and spot cheese rolls on the menu, try them, too. Known as "Southland sushi," a magical alchemy occurs when white bread is spread with a mix of grated cheese, evaporated milk, onion and other flavorings, like mustard or garlic, then rolled, brushed with butter and toasted into an oozy, golden delight. 

"Slices" are also popular and similar to what Americans call "bars." A cross between a tart and a cookie with a topping or two, they’re baked or refrigerated in a square tin and cut into squares or rectangles. Popular slices are peppermint, caramel (millionaire bar), tan square (caramel shortcake) and the unbeatable ginger crunch. 

Lolly cake is another favorite: a coconut-malt, no-bake cookie studded with colorful marshmallow-like fruit puffs.

9. Driving is very different in New Zealand

Unlike the wide, multi-lane expressways of other countries, many of our major roads are only dual carriageway or a two-way divided highway. They’re often winding and hilly, with the added obstacles of construction and "slips" (a Kiwi word for landslides).

Before you head off, check NZTA for potential road closures. Take care not to plan an overly ambitious road-trip itinerary , such as driving from Auckland to Cape Reinga in a day with stops for activities along the way. That might look like five-and-a-half hours on Google Maps, but it’ll probably be slow and exhausting. There’s no such thing as setting the cruise control and chilling out, letting drivers pass on the lanes around you.

You'll need your wits about you, particularly if it is your first experience driving on the left. When everyone’s driving in single file, people get frustrated. Kiwi drivers can follow too close for comfort, pass aggressively and have a particular disdain for camper vans. 

If you’re feeling nervous and notice a long line of cars behind you, you’ll be more relaxed if you regularly pull over where it’s safe and let the line of impatient locals pass. At least they’ll give a friendly toot of thanks.

Explore related stories

Destination Practicalities

Mar 30, 2024 • 4 min read

Who wouldn't jump at the chance to visit the Emerald Isle? Here’s how to check if you need a visa before setting off on your Irish adventure. 

Mar 15, 2024 • 18 min read

Jan 24, 2024 • 8 min read

Jan 17, 2024 • 8 min read

Jan 5, 2024 • 20 min read

Nov 27, 2023 • 7 min read

Nov 22, 2023 • 5 min read

Nov 17, 2023 • 10 min read

Oct 31, 2023 • 7 min read

Oct 22, 2023 • 7 min read

Places To Visit in New Zealand

Here are the top 54 tourist places in new zealand, 1. auckland.

1 out of 54 Places to visit in New Zealand 87 Tourist attractions

Auckland is one of New Zealand's oldest and most historic cities apart from it being the largest and most populous, making it one of the country's most important tourist hubs. Situated by two large harbours, Auckland combines natural beauty and city scapes, drawing in visitors for leisure ...

Best Time: Summer months from December to February

2 out of 54 Places to visit in New Zealand 46 Tourist attractions

Considered to be an epitome of the flourishing Maori culture, this charming town is set with the backdrops of volcanic landscapes and enveloped in stunning mountain peaks, meandering streams, dense woods, mesmerizing waterfalls and several freshwater lakes. Popular as a ‘geothermal wo...

Best Time: March to May

3. Invercargill

3 out of 54 Places to visit in New Zealand 15 Tourist attractions

Southernmost and Westernmost city of New Zealand, Invercargill is also one of the southernmost cities of the world. A commercial centre in the Southland region, Invercargill is rich farmland and is surrounded by conservation land and has a lot of marine reserves.

Best Time: November, March

4. Queenstown

4 out of 54 Places to visit in New Zealand 49 Tourist attractions

Queensland is a beautiful town on the Southern Island that is famous for being an adventurer's paradise! With a plethora of activities for the thrill seekers, coupled with some marvellous and picturesque attractions make Queenstown a memorable visit. It is home to some of the most popular ski r...

Best Time: December to February (summers) or June to July (winters)

New Zealand Travel Packages

Compare quotes from upto 3 travel agents for free

New Zealand Tour Package from India

Adventurous New Zealand Package

Cultural capitals of new-zealand - christchurch, dunedin, te anau and more, fantastic new zealand holiday tour with hobbiton, relaxing auckland, queenstown with singapore tour, treasures of north island - new zealand tour package, 5. wellington.

5 out of 54 Places to visit in New Zealand 40 Tourist attractions

Known for its vibrant creative culture intensified by the sumptuous cuisine, delicious wine, world-class craft beer and coffee, Wellington is the capital city and the most populous urban town in New Zealand. Guarded by majestic mountains and snuggled between cosy hills, the city also has a flat wate...

6. Christchurch

6 out of 54 Places to visit in New Zealand 53 Tourist attractions

Christchurch is New Zealand's third and South Island's third and largest city. It is a hub for English culture and heritage in New Zealand, combined with some of the best gardens in the world, earning it international acclaim as the 'Garden City'. The modern buildings blend with the remnants of...

Best Time: November to April

7. Gisborne

7 out of 54 Places to visit in New Zealand 16 Tourist attractions

Largest settlement in the Gisborne district

8 out of 54 Places to visit in New Zealand 15 Tourist attractions

A small peaceful town in the south island of New Zealand

9 out of 54 Places to visit in New Zealand 30 Tourist attractions

Cosily tucked up in the steep hills of the Otago region in the South Island area, Dunedin is the best-kept secret of New Zealand. Named so because of the Gaelic name for Edingburgh, Dun Eidann, the city is also popularly known as the “Edinburgh of New Zealand” and identifies strongly with its Scotti...

Best Time: December to February

10. Tauranga

10 out of 54 Places to visit in New Zealand 20 Tourist attractions

Situated in the north-western corner of the Bay of Plenty, Tauranga is the most populous city in the region and the fifth largest urban area in New Zealand. Circumscribed by Auckland, Rotorua and Hamilton, Tauranga is home to some of the world’s most stunning beaches, the majestic Mount Maunganui an...

11. Bastion Point

11 out of 54 Places to visit in New Zealand

Bastion Point is a scenic destination located in Orakei, Auckland, New Zealand. It is a vast expanse of coastal land that overlooks the Waitemata Harbour. Its charming surroundings draw a considerable number of visitors each year. Several tour buses often make a pitstop at the harbour for it provide...

12. Hunua Ranges

12 out of 54 Places to visit in New Zealand

Hunua Ranges are located in the North Island of New Zealand. The destination is situated to the southeast of Auckland City and is a block of hilly terrain that forms the suburb. This destination thus has a rich source of natural reservoirs and dense forests. The place is also sparsely populated whic...

Best Time: September to November

13 out of 54 Places to visit in New Zealand 19 Tourist attractions

Burrowed into Hawke’s Bay on New Zealand’s North Island, Napier is the country’s 6th largest urban area. A romantically evocative city replete with buildings that ooze old-world charm and aesthetic, this port-city hugging the North Island’s east coast, lies 300 km away from the capital Wellington. H...

Best Time: November to February

14. Waipara

14 out of 54 Places to visit in New Zealand

Located just 60 kilometres north of the city of Christchurch, the small valley town of Waipara boasts of having the most flavourful and well-made wines in this part of the country. With vineyards that stretch into the distance, surrounded by gentle hills, Waipara is great for a weekend trip, away fr...

15. Kaikoura

15 out of 54 Places to visit in New Zealand

Kaikoura, which lies on the east coast of the South Island of New Zealand, is the perfect place for a weekend getaway from the cities of Picton or Christchurch. It boasts of having the most successful whale and dolphin spotting tours, with an almost hundred per cent spotting rate. One can see variou...

Best Time: December to March

16. Glenorchy

16 out of 54 Places to visit in New Zealand

Located at a short, 45 minute drive from the city of Queensland, the quaint settlement of Glenorchy is the perfect place for a weekend getaway. It is an extremely green and picturesque little town, but has a lot of fun-filled activities that you can enjoy, ranging from kayaking, hiking, skiing, snow...

17. Arrowtown

17 out of 54 Places to visit in New Zealand 9 Tourist attractions

Located just a 20-minute drive from Central Queenstown, the quaint and picturesque Arrowtown is the perfect place for a quick weekend getaway from the city. It is an absolute delight for nature lovers as its nestled amidst beautiful green mountains and the beautiful Arrow River. It is a lo...

18. Whakatane

18 out of 54 Places to visit in New Zealand

Lapped in between two other major cities Rotorua and Taurnaga at an equidistance of 90 kilometers, Whakatane is an urban township of New Zealand that has become a major tourist attraction for people wide across. The city houses a resident population of around 19000. Whakatane is known to be the sunn...

Best Time: May to October

19. Karitane

19 out of 54 Places to visit in New Zealand

A small settlement in the premises of Dunedin in New Zealand, Karitane is located a few kilometres to the north of the city. Blessed with a beautiful coastline, Karitane is the centre of many water activities such as Kayaking, scuba diving and fishing charters. Often referred to as the epitome of Sm...

20 out of 54 Places to visit in New Zealand 9 Tourist attractions

Akaroa, a town on South Island, is one of the most historic and bi-cultural places to visit in New Zealand and it is only a short drive away from Christchurch. It is the only town in New Zealand that holds a touch of France as it was once a French settlement in the 1840s. It is one of Canterbury's o...

21. Hastings

21 out of 54 Places to visit in New Zealand 2 Tourist attractions

Lying in the plains of Heretaunga of the Hawke’s Bay region, Hastings is one of the most populous cities in New Zealand. Its twin city, Napiers, is located at a 9km distance; together, they form the bulk of a major population. The district of Hastings has good produce of apples and pears and is also...

22. Coromandel

22 out of 54 Places to visit in New Zealand 7 Tourist attractions

Tucked 170 km away from New Zealand’s capital Auckland, in the northern section of the North Island  amongst pristine beaches and turquoise waters, Coromandel is one of the holiday hotspots to spend your summer in New Zealand. Mile after mile of golden coastline and rich tradition have come to ...

23. Marlborough

23 out of 54 Places to visit in New Zealand

The Marlborough Region, or known more simply just as Marlborough is located just off the northern tip of New Zealand’s South Island, at a distance of nearly 800 km away from Queenstown. The Marlborough Region is known around the world for its famous sprawling vineyards that cultivate and harvest som...

24. Waitomo Caves

24 out of 54 Places to visit in New Zealand

Tucked away beneath the lush hills of Waitomo along the north-western section of the North Island of New Zealand are the Waitomo Caves. A long, serpentine, highly interconnected system of subterranean caves are waiting to be explored by eager tourists from around the world. You can abseil through th...

25 out of 54 Places to visit in New Zealand

One of the most prizely-held gems of New Zealand’s South Island is the charming little town of Wanaka, located around 70 km away from the adventure capital of the world, Queenstown. Known before also as Pembroke and built along the banks of the surrounding Lake Wanaka, this characterful lakeside tow...

Best Time: June to August

26 out of 54 Places to visit in New Zealand 19 Tourist attractions

Situated near the centre of North Island, Taupo is perched on the banks of Lake Taupo, which sits on the caldera of the Taupo volcano. The lake sits inside a crater created by a massive volcanic eruption that was so large that the amount of ash released into the air caused the skies in Europe a...

27. Lake Tekapo

27 out of 54 Places to visit in New Zealand

Situated just over 200 km south of Christchurch on New Zealand’s fabled South Island, Tekapo and its misty glacial lakes and clear skies makes for a popular tourist destination. The majestic Remarkables mountain range can be seen from across the foggy lake which depicts the start of the Southern Alp...

Best Time: November to March

28. Bay of Islands

28 out of 54 Places to visit in New Zealand 21 Tourist attractions

Located over 200 km north of Auckland on North Island lies the tropical haven of the Bay of Islands which, as the name suggests, is an archipelago of over 140 stunning islands. Skirting the edge of the northern tip of the island, the Bay of Islands is replete with stunning white-sand beaches, a...

29. Franz Josef Glacier

29 out of 54 Places to visit in New Zealand

A four and a half hour drive from Queenstown leads you to Franz Josef Glacier and to some of the most incredible landscapes on the planet, and in New Zealand, that’s saying quite something. Designated as a World Heritage Area by UNESCO, the town of Franz Josef and the surrounding areas are ripe for ...

30 out of 54 Places to visit in New Zealand 4 Tourist attractions

Nestling on the northwestern tip of New Zealand’s North Island is the vibrant  and charming coastal town of Nelson. A stunning landscape and spell-binding views of the ocean and idyllic viewpoints are only the beginning of the allure of Nelson. A thriving local community built on entrepreneursh...

31. Lake Taupo

31 out of 54 Places to visit in New Zealand

The crowning glory of the Waikato region is Lake Taupo. A sparkling gem set in the heart of the verdant North Island, Lake Taupo is the second largest inland freshwater lake in the geopolitical area. Lake Taupo, measuring around 700 sq. km,  came into existence following a volcanic explosion so...

32 out of 54 Places to visit in New Zealand

This charming town situated on the northern end of New Zealand’s South Island is known for its eclectic personality. The number of boutique cafes that serve up scrumptiously good coffee and food, art galleries, and great restaurants all combine to form a seaside town that has a distinctly unique vib...

Best Time: December to May

33. Hawke's Bay

33 out of 54 Places to visit in New Zealand

Hawke’s Bay is also hugely popular as the site for New Zealand’s Art Deco scene. A huge earthquake rocked Hawke’s Bay during the 1930s and brought the region to its knees. The city was levelled by the earthquake but rebuilding of the crumbled ruins quickly started. The prevailing architectural desig...

Best Time: December - February

34. Matamata

34 out of 54 Places to visit in New Zealand

Located less than 200 km south of Auckland on New Zealand’s North Island, lies the town of Matamata in the Waikato region. The town shot to fame primarily as the location for the set of Peter Jackson’s epic Lord of the Rings and Hobbit trilogies. The location for the set has since been turned into a...

35. Fox Glacier

35 out of 54 Places to visit in New Zealand

Squeezed in between the Franz Josef glacier and its younger, equally impressive Fox glacier is the small township of Fox Glacier. The town’s economy is almost entirely driven by the tourism industry that the glaciers bring. The piercing blue of the deep ice shelves that precede the glacier are views...

36. Abel Tasman National Park

36 out of 54 Places to visit in New Zealand

Located between the Golden and Tasman Bays towards South Island’s northern tip lies New Zealand’s smallest national park. Sprawling over a massive 22,530 hectares, what sets this park apart from the rest is the grand mix of all landscapes. The Abel Tasman National Park traverses a golden c...

37 out of 54 Places to visit in New Zealand

Known as the Gateway to the Bay of Islands, Paihia is located on the far northern tip of New Zealand’s North Island. Situated at a distance of 200 km north of Auckland, Paihia lies at the doorstep of a world of golden, sandy and pristine beaches. Considering the amount of boats and ferries that ply ...

38. Cape Reinga

38 out of 54 Places to visit in New Zealand

Tucked away at the northernmost tip of New Zealand’s North Island and a 200 km drive away from Auckland lies the quiet fishing town of Cape Reinga. Cape Reinga holds cultural significance to the Maori tribes. A distinctively curved pohutukawa tree is believed to be the acting medium for the spi...

39. Hokitika

39 out of 54 Places to visit in New Zealand

Known affectionately as New Zealand’s ‘Cool Little Town’, Hokitika is exactly that and so much more. Hugging the South Island’s west coast, little more than 250 km west of Christchurch is New Zealand’s subtle and understated answer to Los Angeles. Miles of golden, sandy beaches are a prominent featu...

40. Stewart Island

40 out of 54 Places to visit in New Zealand

Located just south of New Zealand’s South Island is the country’s third largest island, Stewart Island. Stewart Island can be accessed either via air or via the water. Ferries ply the route across the Foveaux Strait between Bluff, the closest port to Stewart Island, and Stewart Island daily. The jou...

41. Arthur's Pass

41 out of 54 Places to visit in New Zealand 12 Tourist attractions

New Zealand is blessed with an abundance of national parks and the township of Arthur’s Pass lies at the doorstep of one of its finest - Arthur’s Pass National Park. Arthur’s Pass itself is rife with spectacular scenery as it snakes 900m in elevation through the national park earning it th...

42. Bay of Plenty

42 out of 54 Places to visit in New Zealand 12 Tourist attractions

Nestled along the northern coast of New Zealand’s North Island lies what Captain James Cook described as the Bay of Plenty. The name stuck, and the Bay of Plenty today has come to embody its name as several cities and pristine beaches that line the 120 km stretch of sunshine and seaside bliss. Locat...

Best Time: October to March

Browse Package Collections

New zealand package collections.

New Zealand Honeymoon Tour Packages

New Zealand Family Tour Packages

Top Destinations for Packages

Invercargill

Christchurch

Nearby Countries for Packages

Philippines

South Korea

Top Listed Packages

Faqs on new zealand, what is the currency of new zealand, what is the history of new zealand, what is unique about culture of new zealand, how is new zealand divided into regions, top hotel collections.

Ski New Zealand

Nearby Countries

Related Posts

Beautiful Cities in New Zealand

Travel Tips

The 3 Different Languages In New Zealand that are Spoken

Art & Culture

Coolest Museums in Auckland for an Unforgettable Trip

Airports in New Zealand - The Complete Guide

Food & Drink

Food of New Zealand That You Should Definitely Try!

Things to Do in New Zealand: A Guide to New Zealand's Best Activities

Experiences

Most Fascinating Things to Do in New Zealand

Beaches & Islands

Stunning Beaches in New Zealand for a Refreshing Short Trip

Culture of New Zealand: A Dive into the Country's Rich Tradition

Nine Engrossing Facts about New Zealand to Pique Your Curiosity

Historical & Heritage

The History of New Zealand; A Complete Guide

Get the best offers on Travel Packages

Compare package quotes from top travel agents

Compare upto 3 quotes for free

• India (+91)

*Final prices will be shared by our partner agents based on your requirements.

Log in to your account

Welcome to holidify.

Forget Password?

Share this page

• Travel guides
• Budget travel
• Luxury travel
• Moving abroad
• Trip planning
• Inspiration
• Flight attendant
• Recent posts
• Bosnia & Herzegovina
• Netherlands
• Dominican Republic
• New Zealand
• Travel Resources

The Best Places to Visit on New Zealand’s South Island: A Definitive List

• 26 April 2022 23 May 2023

The South Island of New Zealand may be one of the most beautiful places on Earth. Filled with lush hot springs, incredible mountains, and quirky towns, there’s a little bit of something for everyone. Whether you’re planning a weeks-long road trip or a weekend getaway, here is an ultimate list of the 33 best places to visit on the South Island !

Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliate links. When you purchase through links on my site, I may make a small commission (at no extra cost to you!).

Stewart Island

Currency & budget, best places to visit on the south island.

Region : Marlborough

Situated just across the Cook Strait from Wellington, Picton will be your first destination if you’re coming on a ferry from the North Island. This quaint little town is the gateway to the Marlborough Sounds and offers a lot in the way of boating, hiking, and outdoor activities. There are also tons of scenic spots for those that appreciate a good view!

Where to stay in Picton : Picton Beachcomber Inn for an inexpensive option on Picton Harbour or Sennen House Boutique Bed & Breakfast for a unique colonial villa

Must-do activities : Hike the 6.5 km (4 mi) Tirohanga Track , take a boat cruise around the bay, and check out EcoWorld Aquarium for native fish and reptiles

Marlborough Sounds

The Marlborough Sounds are an extensive collection of sea-drowned valleys and inlets on the northern coast of the South Island. Known as a relaxing getaway destination, the Sounds are a great place to visit if you’re after some one-on-one time with nature.

Where to stay in the Sounds : Furneaux Lodge for a chic water-front resort or Lochmara Lodge for a casual stay with an underwater observatory

Must-do activities : Go fishing, paddle a kayak around the inlets, and hike part of the Queen Charlotte Track

This small town in the middle of New Zealand’s wine country is amazing for winos and foodies alike. With sunny weather that’s reminiscent of California’s Napa Valley , Blenheim is the perfect place to stroll through fancy vineyards and take in the scenery.

Where to stay in Blenheim : Marlborough Wine Barrel Cabins for a super-cute (and unique!) stay or  14th Lane Urban Hotel  for a trendy retreat in the CBD

Must-do activities : Take a wine tour! There are both guided bus tour options and self-guided biking options — both are a blast.

Region : Nelson

Nelson is a charming city on Tasman Bay that’s known for its local art scene and close proximity to caving sites, wineries, and Abel Tasman National Park. It’s a good city to base yourself in if you want to explore the nearby regions as everything is relatively close by.

Where to stay in Nelson : Joya Garden & Villa Studios for self-contained B&Bs or Maitai Whare Iti for secluded cabins in the bush

Must-do activities : Take a day trip to Cable Bay , sample peanut butter at Pic’s Peanut Butter World , and relax on Tahunanui Beach

Abel Tasman National Park

Region : Tasman

Abel Tasman National Park is the most tropical feeling place in New Zealand’s South Island. Everywhere you look, you’ll be surrounded by yellow sand beaches, turquoise water, and super lush green forests. The park itself can be experienced as either a day trip or as a multi-day trip.

Where to stay in Abel Tasman : Abel Tasman Lodge for a romantic getaway or The Barn for rustic cabins and camping

Must-do activities : Hike the Abel Tasman Coastal Track (one of New Zealand’s 10 Great Walks), search for wildlife on Tonga Island , and take a scenic boat trip around the golden beaches

Region : Canterbury

Located right on the shores of the South Island’s east coast, Kaikoura is a cool town that’s famous for its plethora of whales, dolphins, and sea lions. Between the misty sea, towering mountains, and ample wildlife colonies, you’re bound to have a good time in Kaikoura if you’re a nature lover.

Where to stay in Kaikoura : The Fairways for luxury accommodation with a hot tub or Manakau PurePods for a glass eco-cabin

Must-do activities : Take a whale watching tour, spot sea lions on the coast at Kaikoura Seal Colony , and eat crayfish from Nin’s Bin seafood stall

Nelson Lakes National Park

Regions : Tasman

Nelson Lakes National Park is made up of 16 picturesque lakes in the top center of New Zealand’s South Island. Despite being relatively unknown compared to other National Parks, Nelson Lakes has tons to offer. Some of the best things to do include hiking, boating, fishing, and mountain biking.

Where to stay in Nelson Lakes : Nelson Lakes Motels for large group cottages or Alpine Lodge for dorm rooms and apartments

Must-do activities : Visit the jetty at Lake Rotoiti , hike to Angelus Hut , or go skiing at Rainbow Ski Area

Hanmer Springs

Hanmer Springs in the Hurunui District is another great spot for a relaxing staycation. Known for its mineral-fed hot springs and surrounding mountains, it makes a good place to visit in both the summer and winter months.

Where to stay in Hanmer Springs : Amuri Estate Luxury Lodge for 5-star accommodation or 8 on Oregon for a boutique lodge

Must-do activities : Soak in the Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools & Spa , walk up Conical Hill , and go jet boating down the Waiau River

Regions : Canterbury & West Coast

The Lewis Pass is the northernmost connecting road between Canterbury and the West Coast. You’ll find a few fun walks and things to do along your scenic drive.

Where to stay in Lewis Pass : Maruia Hot Springs for a rustic thermal springs resort or Lewis Pass Motels for clean and spacious rooms

Must-do activities : Hike to Lake Daniell , camp at Marble Hill , and take in the views at Lewis Pass Scenic Tarn

Region : West Coast

Making our way over to the West Coast of the South Island, Punakaiki is a little town with some really cool rock formations. It’s also the gateway to nearby Paparoa National Park, a coastal forest that is straight out of Jurassic Park.

Where to stay in Punakaiki : Punakaiki Beach Hostel for a cheap and cheerful option or Te Nikau Retreat for self-contained cottages

Must-do activities : Visit the Pancake Rocks and Blowholes , walk the Truman Track , and explore the depths of the Punakaiki Cavern

⇉ West Coast Road Trip Day 2: Buller Gorge & Punakaiki

For being such a small town, Hokitika sure packs a punch when it comes to things to do. With both epic scenery and cultural experiences, Hokitika is definitely one of the best places to visit on the South Island. There are also tons of short walks around the area to enjoy.

Where to stay in Hokitika : Hurunui Jacks for canopy glamping or Awatuna Sunset Lodge for a luxurious adults-only retreat

Must-do activities : Spot glow worms at the Glow Worm Dell , take a stroll above the treeline at West Coast Treetop Walk , walk the track around Hokitika Gorge , experience Maori culture by carving pounamu at Bonz’n’Stonz , and swim in Dorothy Falls and Lake Kaniere

⇉ West Coast Road Trip Day 3: Lake Kaniere & Hokitika

⇉ West Coast Road Trip Day 4: Treetop Walk & Hokitika Gorge

Franz Josef

Franz Josef, along with nearby Fox Glacier, are tourist and backpacking hubs on the West Coast. The main attraction is Franz Josef Glacier, a 12 km (7.5 mi) long glacier in Westland Tai Poutini National Park. The town also offers tons of adventure activities like skydiving, heli hiking, and bungee jumping.

Where to stay in Franz Josef : Rainforest Retreat for a sustainable and eco-friendly stay or Glow Worm Accommodation for a cosy room in the heart of town

Must-do activities : Hike (or heli hike!) to Franz Josef Glacier , do the Tatare Tunnels Walk through an abandoned mining tunnel, and soak in the Franz Josef Glacier Hot Pools

⇉ West Coast Road Trip Day 5: Tatare Tunnels & Franz Josef

Regions : West Coast & Otago

Haast Pass is a mountain pass between the West Coast of the South Island and Otago. It’s home to Mount Aspiring National Park, where you’ll find heaps of tall mountains, glaciers, river valleys, and alpine lakes.

Where to stay in Haast Pass : Wonderland Makarora Lodge for a cute A-frame cabin or Haast River Motels & Holiday Park for those in campervans

Must-do activities : Go chasing waterfalls ( Roaring Billy Falls , Thunder Creek Falls , and Fantail Falls ) and take a frigid dip in the Blue Pools

⇉ West Coast Road Trip Day 7: Haast Waterfalls & Blue Pools

Arthur’s Pass National Park

Regions : West Coast & Canterbury

Driving through Arthur’s Pass, the middle road connecting Canterbury and the West Coast, is one of the best things to do on a South Island road trip. The scenic drive includes many beautiful overlooks, hiking tracks, and natural wonders.

Where to stay in Arthur’s Pass : Wilderness Lodge Arthur’s Pass for great views or Mountain House YHA for affordable digs

Must-do activities : Stroll through Castle Hill (an area with massive boulders), do some spelunking at Cave Stream Scenic Reserve , and hike the Bealey Spur Track

⇉ 15 Unreal Things to Do in Arthur’s Pass, New Zealand

Christchurch

Christchurch is the largest city on the South Island and a major transport hub to connect to other cities. If you’re flying in to the South Island, this is most likely where you’ll begin your journey.

The city itself has experienced a ton of growth after the tragic 2011 earthquakes and is now a super-cool destination with lots of great restaurants and bars. Also known as the garden city, Christchurch is one of the best places to visit on the South Island if you’re into the outdoors.

Where to stay in Christchurch : The George for luxury overlooking Hagley Park, Orari for a centrally-located bed and breakfast, or The Tack Rooms for stylish yet understated rooms

Must-do activities : Stroll through Hagley Park and the Christchurch Botanic Gardens , go op shopping at Paper Bag Princess , and take a picture with the Bridge of Remembrance

Best places to eat & drink: Amazonita , Barefoot Eatery , C1 Espresso , gin gin , Miro , Mr. Brightside Rooftop Bar , and any stalls at Riverside Market

⇉ 18 Free (& Cheap) Things to Do in Christchurch

Located on the Banks Peninsula, Akaroa is a former French settlement with tons of culture and wildlife viewing opportunities. This quaint seaside town is perfect for a day trip or a weekend getaway from Christchurch.

Where to stay in Akaroa : SiloStay to experience a unique converted grain silo or Okains Bay campground for self-contained campervans

Must-do activities : Eat authentic French food at Ma Maison , hang out with the farm animals at Shamarra Alpacas , and take in views of the bay at Akaroa Lookout point

Lake Tekapo

Lake Tekapo is a small town surrounded by unreal natural beauty. You’ll find a large, blue lake, tons of rolling hills, fields of flowers, and golden plains. The night sky is so clear that the entire town is considered an International Dark Sky Reserve !

Stargazing, cycling, and hiking are just a few of the activities that you can enjoy in Tekapo.

Where to stay in Tekapo : Galaxy Boutique Hotel Lake Tekapo for lake view suites or Peppers Bluewater Resort for secluded apartments

Must-do activities : Hike up to the Mount John Observatory , take pictures with fields of lupins , check out Church of the Good Shepherd , go stargazing and soak in the hot tubs at Tekapo Springs

⇉ Tekapo Travel Guide: 14 Can’t-Miss Things To Do Around Lake Tekapo

Lake Pukaki

Just a half hour’s drive southwest from Tekapo, you’ll find an even more stunning lake (can you believe it?). Lake Pukaki is a crystal clear, powder blue glacial lake that often provides a mirrored reflection of the Southern Alps. Take a dip in the frigid water to perk yourself up, especially if you’re road tripping from Christchurch to Queenstown !

Where to stay in Pukaki : Lakestone Lodge for unparalleled food and views of the lake or The Pines for amazing freedom camping

Must-do activities : Cycle a part of the Alps2Ocean trail , walk the Pukaki Kettle Hole track , and eat some fresh sashimi at Mt Cook Alpine Salmon

Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park

Surrounded in all directions by the Southern Alps, Aoraki / Mt Cook National Park is also home to New Zealand’s tallest mountain of the same name. The highest peak stands at a staggering 3,724 m (12,218 ft) tall! The spectacular views make this one of my personal favorite places to visit in all of New Zealand.

Where to stay in Aoraki/Mt Cook : The Hermitage Hotel , an iconic hotel within the park

Must-do activities : Take a scenic flight or go hiking on one of the many trails. My favorites include Mueller Hut , Hooker Valley Track, Red Tarns , and Tasman Glacier !

⇉ The Ultimate Guide to Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park

Twizel is hands-down one of the nicest holiday home towns in New Zealand. Sitting smack dab in the middle of four lakes (Lake Ruataniwha, Lake Ohau, Lake Benmore, and Lake Pukaki), it’s a great place for boating, swimming, fishing, and more.

Where to stay in Twizel : High Country Cabin for a chic, cozy vibe, SkyScape for amazing night sky views, or Highlands farmstay for a rural hut with friendly farm animals

Must-do activities : Go salmon fishing along the canals , spend the day on a boat at Lake Ruataniwha , hike the Greta Track

⇉ Welcome to Twizel: New Zealand’s Hidden Gem

Omarama is a tiny town at the intersection between the Lindis Pass and southern Canterbury. With unreal and easily accessible landscapes, hot tubs, and a few quality cafes, Omarama makes a great place to stop off on a longer road trip.

Where to stay in Omarama : Ahuriri Motels for clean and comfy rooms or BigSky Bed and Breakfast for heartfelt hospitality

Must-do activities : Walk among the otherworldly Clay Cliffs , take a soak at the Omarama Hot Tubs , and fuel up with snacks from Pink Glider Cafe

Region : Otago

With beautiful lake views, snow-capped mountains, and a bevy of fantastic restaurants, Wanaka is a must-see spot on New Zealand’s South Island. Hiking, mountain biking, and river floating are some popular activities.

I personally like Wanaka a bit more than Queenstown and I definitely think that it deserves a day or two on any South Island itinerary!

Where to stay in Wanaka : Cross Hill Domes for luxury glamping or Wanaka Bakpaka Hostel for affordable rooms on the water

Must-do activities : Hike Roy’s Peak (especially cool at sunrise or sunset), have some fun at Puzzling World , climb a via ferrata behind a waterfall with Wildwire Wanaka

Best places to eat & drink : Scroggin , Francesca’s Italian Kitchen , Kai Whakapai , and Burrito Craft

When you think of Cromwell, you should think of two things: fruit and wine. This little Central Otago town has the perfect climate for both, making it the perfect spot for winos and foodies alike. Additionally, you can cycle down one of the many nearby trails or relax by the Clutha River.

Where to stay in Cromwell : Vines on Bannockburn for a boutique getaway or River Rock Estate for relaxation and hot pools

Must-do activities : Take a selfie with the Big Fruit , walk through the Heritage Precinct , and drink some wine at Wooing Tree Vineyard

Arrowtown is a historic Gold Rush site just outside of Queenstown. Although small, the charming town makes for a good half- or full-day trip if you want to step back in time. Try your luck panning for gold — you never know, you might strike it rich!

Where to stay in Arrowtown : The Arrow Hotel for luxurious apartments or The New Orleans Hotel for a historic building on the river

Must-do activities : Experience the history of gold panning at the Arrowtown Chinese Settlement , go swimming at Lake Hayes , and peruse the boutiques on Buckingham Street

If you had to choose just one place to visit on the South Island, Queenstown should be the place.

With tons of adventure activities, proximity to amazing natural wonders, an innovative restaurant scene, and a big backpacking community, Queenstown has something for everyone. It makes the perfect spot to base yourself while taking day trips nearby, as well!

Where to stay in Queenstown : Kamana Lakehouse for an architecturally stunning locale (with outdoor bathtub!) or Novotel Queenstown Lakeside for a contemporary hotel on the shores of Lake Wakatipu

Must-do activities : Take the gondola up the Tiki Trail , go jet boating down the Shotover River, hike to Bob’s Cove , and paragliding from Coronet Peak

Best places to eat & drink : Fergburger , Atlas Beer Cafe , Rata , and Nest

Just 45 minutes down the road from Queenstown, Glenorchy and its surrounds are straight out of a fairytale. This remote and peaceful town has lots to offer in terms of outdoor activities and Lord of the Rings filming locations. Hiking and cycling are musts — if you’re super adventurous, the famous Routeburn Track starts nearby!

Where to stay in Glenorchy : Ecoscapes for a cool glass-walled cabin or Camp Glenorchy Eco Retreat for a sustainable getaway in town

Must-do activities : Drive the Road to Paradise , walk the Lake Sylvan Track , stroll around the Glenorchy Lagoon Walkway , and check out the red shed at the Glenorchy Wharf

⇉ 12 Awesome Things to Do in Glenorchy & Paradise

Although kind of in the middle of nowhere, the town of St Bathans is worth a visit a detour if you’re driving from Queenstown to Dunedin. The main (and really, only) attraction is the loop track around Blue Lake, a man-made lake from when the town was a booming Gold Rush site. The white-washed cliffs and sandy shores make St Bathans look more like somewhere out of the Mediterranean than a town in Central Otago.

Where to stay in St Bathans : The Vulcan Hotel , a historic (and supposedly haunted) building

Must-do activities : Walk the track around the Blue Lake

The town of Oamaru is at once quaint and unbelievably eccentric. With Victorian England-style streets and an indescribable fascination with steampunk, Oamaru is an interesting place to visit for a day or two. Make sure to go down to the coast for some epic views.

Where to stay in Oamaru : Pen-y-bryn Lodge for charming period-style rooms and free breakfast or The Old Confectionery , a remodeled candy factory

Must-do activities : Tour the Steampunk HQ building, look out for penguins at the Oamaru Blue Penguin Colony , and take a beach walk alongside the Moeraki Boulders (make sure to go at low tide)

⇉ 16 Quirky & Fun Things to Do in Oamaru, New Zealand’s Victorian City

Dunedin is a bustling university town with tons of cultural and historical sites. Boasting a strong Scottish heritage and plenty of marine life on its beaches, Dunedin is one of the best spots for a coastal getaway on the South Island.

Where to stay in Dunedin : The Stables Dunedin for historical boutique studios or The Hydro Esplanade Apartments for beach-front accommodation

Must-do activities : Wander through Larnach Castle , walk down to the ocean at Tunnel Beach , stand on Baldwin Street (the “steepest street in the world”), and jump over sand dunes at Sand Fly Bay

⇉ Dunedin Travel Guide: The Best Things to Eat, See, and Do

The Catlins

Regions : Otago & Southland

The Catlins is an area on the southeastern coast of the South Island from Balclutha to Invercargill. Despite having some of the best views and things to do, the whole area remains criminally underrated.

There are tons of opportunities to see wildlife, take short walks through the forest, and breathe in the ocean breeze. The Catlins are one of the best places to visit on the South Island if you love nature!

Where to stay in The Catlins : Seascape Kaka Point for a cozy seaside motel or Curio Bay Salthouse Motel and Apartment for self-catering suites

Must-do activities : Walk the trail to Nugget Point Lighthouse , search for sea lions at Curio Bay , and see the southernmost point of the South island at Slope Point

⇉ Catlins Road Trip Itinerary: 4 Days in New Zealand’s Most Underrated Region

Region : Southland

Te Anau is the gateway to Milford Sound, Doubtful Sound , and Fiordland National Park. It makes a great base to start adventuring the nearby region. It also has enough to do to keep you busy for a few days. Te Anau is especially wonderful if you’re big on hiking!

Where to stay in Te Anau : Fiordland Lodge Te Anau for lakeside luxury or Radfords on the Lake for plush rooms with a view

Must-do activities : Check out the Te Anau Glow Worm Caves , hike the Kepler Track , and drive the scenic road to Milford Sound

⇉ 16 Exciting Things to Do in Te Anau, New Zealand

Milford Sound

Milford Sound’s stunning landscapes make it one of the absolute best places to visit on the South Island. It’s a bucket list destination that every visitor to New Zealand should check out at least once.

The best way to see Milford Sound is by boat, so make sure to book a scenic cruise around the fjords if you’re keen on visiting.

Where to stay in Milford Sound : Milford Sound Lodge to be right near the action

Must-do activities : Take a scenic cruise around Milford Sound

⇉ 14 Best Things to Do in Milford Sound: First Timer’s Guide

Stewart Island is a remote and unspoiled area about 30 km (18.6 mi) south of the South Island. Known for its birdlife and pristine walking tracks, Stewart Island is a gem. It also makes a great addition to any South Island itinerary, especially one that’s off the beaten path.

Where to stay on Stewart Island : Stewart Island Backpackers for affordable rooms or Kaka Retreat for lush surroundings amongst native bush

Must-do activities : Take a guided walk around Ulva Island , watch for kiwis , and walk the Rakiura Track

South Island New Zealand travel tips

Getting to the south island.

If you’re coming from abroad, you’ll most likely fly into Christchurch International Airport (CHC). From elsewhere in New Zealand, you could also fly into Dunedin (DUD) and Queenstown (ZQN).

If you’re coming by ferry from the North Island, you’ll arrive in Picton. The ferry operates several times a day between Picton and Wellington. Tickets cost around $60 per person one way (more if you’re bringing a car or a bike).

How to get around the South Island

The absolute best way to travel the South Island is by campervan. Public transportation is unreliable and guided tours can be incredibly expensive. Self-driving allows you to see what you want, when you want. It also ends up saving money, especially if your campervan is self-contained!

⇉ Everything You Need to Know About New Zealand Freedom Camping

Best time to visit the South Island

The South Island can make a great destination throughout the year. Summer is the most popular choice because the weather is the best, but hotels and activities can be more expensive. Traveling the South Island during winter is also a great option if you’re planning on participating in winter sports. Keep in mind that it’s much colder than the North Island, though!

New Zealand is an expensive place to visit, and the South Island in particular is no exception. Prices for accommodation, food, and transportation can set you back big time. Here are a few money-saving tips for traveling the South Island!

⇉ How to Travel New Zealand on a Budget (21 Money-Saving Tips)

Accommodation : While not as flash, hostels are much cheaper than hotels or Airbnbs. You can usually find private rooms in a hostel for less than a room at a mid-range hotel.

Food : Cooking your own food will definitely save you a ton of money. If you do eat out, try to stick to brunch or lunch because you’re more likely to get a deal.

Activities : Many of the most popular activities on the South Island are actually free! Hiking, cycling, and swimming are all free of charge and are definitely things you should add to your list.

Transportation : Try to fuel up before heading to smaller or more remote towns. Fuel prices are often much more expensive in more touristy spots as well!

New Zealand travel essentials

• Tripod : To get great pictures when traveling solo
• Bug spray : Because sand flies are no joke!
• New Zealand guide book
• Portable charger : To stay connected
• Portable espresso maker : Works with Nespresso pods and is great for camping
• Polarized sunglasses

South Island New Zealand FAQ

Should i visit the north island or the south island.

The two islands are very different in terms of scenery and general vibe.

The North Island is more culturally and linguistically diverse than the South Island. Maori culture is more prevalent as well. You’ll find amazing beaches, warmer weather, and lots of geothermal activity.

The South Island is renowned for being the more naturally beautiful of the two. You get super diverse landscapes that range from snowy mountains to lush forests and craggy ocean cliffs. There is so much to see and do so you’ll never get bored.

Overall, I’d recommend visiting the South Island if you had to pick between the two.

What are the best places to visit on the South Island?

In my opinion, the absolute best places to visit on the South Island include Queenstown, Milford Sound, and Mount Cook. Depending on what kind of trip you enjoy, your top places could be different!

Other best places to visit for the:

• Nature lover : Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park, Milford Sound, Punakaiki
• Wine lover : Blenheim, Picton, Wanaka
• Foodie : Christchurch, Kaikoura, Queenstown
• Off-the-beaten-path explorer : The Catlins, St Bathans, Oamaru

Should I rent a car or a campervan?

This comes down to personal preference as well.

Do you want to stay in hotels, Airbnbs, or unique glamping spots? Is your budget a little bit higher? Then renting a car could be a good option.

If you’re on a budget and are okay with staying at campsites, then a campervan is the way to go. There are so many beautiful (and often completely free!) spots you can park up. Renting a campervan is the move if you want to be more in touch with nature during your visit.

You’ll also love:

• Best Waterfalls in the Catlins: A Full Guide to 8 New Zealand Hidden Gems
• Queenstown Luxury Spa Getaway: Onsen Hot Pools & Kamana Lakehouse
• Hiking the Red Tarns Track: Steep Stairs & A Glacial Lake

Thanks for reading this list of best places to visit on New Zealand’s South Island! Do you have a favorite spot that I’ve missed? Leave it in the comments below!

Related posts

Join the conversation

I really like your blog.. very nice colors & theme. Did you create this website yourself or did you hire someone to do it for you? Plz answer back as I’m looking to design my own blog and would like to find out where u got this from. many thanks

Hi Gralion, thanks for the nice words! I’m using the Neve WordPress theme but have edited it a bunch myself.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Love Exploring

50 Reasons Everyone Should Visit New Zealand

Posted: October 10, 2023 | Last updated: October 10, 2023

Kiwi experiences you've been missing

Sailing Auckland's harbor

Charter a sailboat or join a cruise to experience Auckland’s Waitematā Harbour from the water. The City of Sails, as it's also known, has a rich maritime heritage and when you’ve learned all you can about Polynesian and European history in its museums, nothing beats seeing Auckland’s skyline with the wind in your hair. There's even an option to book an ex-America's Cup sailing yacht.

Hiking the Tongariro Alpine Crossing

The central North Island region features the one-day Tongariro Alpine Crossing. Famed for its views of magnificent lava fields, smoking craters, volcanic lakes and Mount Ngauruhoe (known as Mount Doom in  The Lord of the Rings ), it's lauded as one of the world's best one-day hikes. In winter, the track is covered in snow and ice. The hike takes six to eight hours to complete and covers around 12 miles (19.4km). Note that it's a point-to-point hike, so travelers are advised to arrange pick-up at the end of the trail.

Sandboarding Giant Sand Dunes

Braving a skydive

Queenstown in the South Island is the adventure capital of New Zealand. Braving a skydive from 15,000 feet (4,572m) is the ultimate high-octane experience and after an exhilarating (and terrifying) 60-second freefall you can enjoy a scenic parachute ride over beautiful and dramatic scenery – drop zones include the base of the Remarkables mountain range.

Love this? See our Facebook page for more travel inspiration

Visiting Hobbiton Movie Set

Kiwi film director Sir Peter Jackson shot much of The Lord of the Rings trilogy on location in the epic landscapes of New Zealand. Hobbiton, however, was built from scratch (and rebuilt for The Hobbit ) on farmland just outside the small Waikato town of Matamata. The movie set is now one of the country’s most visited tourist attractions and offers guided tours, dinner feasts, special weekend breakfast experiences and more.

Riding the New Zealand Cycle Trail

The New Zealand Cycle Trail is a series of 22 mostly off-road cycle routes that take anything from a couple of hours to several days. Alps 2 Ocean (pictured) is an epic route that follows glacier-carved valleys from the foot of the Southern Alps to the Pacific Ocean on the South Island and takes four to six days to complete. It's mostly pretty easy but can be lumpy with steep drop offs in places.

Touring world-class wineries

A flight over an active volcano

In northern New Zealand’s Bay of Plenty, White Island – or Whakaari in Māori – is an active marine volcano that last erupted in December 2019. There were 47 people on the island at the time and 22 tragically lost their lives when rock and ash was exploded into the air. Visitors can no longer set foot on White Island, but you can take a scenic flight from Whakatane, Rotorua, Tauranga or Taupo to see the often-smoking crater up close.

More active volcanoes you can visit

Visiting a marae

Driving Ninety Mile Beach

The far north’s Ninety Mile Beach is officially a highway – but one that's only suitable for 4WD vehicles. Beefed-up minibuses regularly run tours up and down the sands from Kaitaia to Scott Point, while more adventurous travelers tackle the sands in their own vehicles (though rental motors don't allow you to drive on the beach). A seemingly never-ending stretch of sand, Ninety Mile Beach, which is actually 55 miles (88.5km) long, is famed for spectacular sunsets and one of the best left-hand surf breaks in the world.

Exploring Farewell Spit

There are plenty of spots other than Ninety Mile Beach where you can take a drive on the sands, though. At the far north of the South Island in Golden Bay, narrow Farewell Spit is a protected nature reserve and bird sanctuary with bar-tailed godwits, knots, curlews, whimbrels, turnstones and breeding blue penguins. Just one tour company has permission to operate here, allowing visitors to explore the 21-mile (34km) stretch of windswept sands backed by ever-moving dunes on a 4WD minibus.

Jet-boating on the Shotover River

The unbelievably blue waters of the fast-flowing Shotover River are a mesmerizing spot for jet-boating on the Shotover Jet. Your heart is in your mouth as you race through the rocky and narrow canyon, skimming rocks and spinning through sharp turns. The jet is owned by the Ngāi Tahu, the Māori people of this land, and is the only company allowed to operate in this area of the river.

Bungy jumping in Queenstown

Queenstown is the home of the bungy and seems to bring out the adventurous side to every visitor. There are plenty of opportunities for bungy jumping from lofty bridges and ledges in and around town – be like the pros and throw in a flip or twist as you hurtle off. Pictured is the 154-foot (134m) Nevis Bungy – the highest in New Zealand, offering an incredible 8.5-second free fall.

Bathing on Hot Water Beach

Join the throngs of people as the tide rolls out on Hot Water Beach on the east of the North Island. Grab a spade (you can hire one from a nearby café) and head to the southern end of the beach where you can dig your very own hot pool and immerse yourself in naturally heated water. It's one beach experience that's even better on a rainy day. 

See more of the world's most stunning beaches

Discovering Wai-O-Tapu thermal wonderland

The Wai-O-Tapu thermal wonderland is close to Rotorua, a place revered by Māori (Wai-O-Tapu means sacred waters). The geothermal playground has mud pools, geysers and sulfur pools. Although there's a distinct rotten egg whiff in the air, the views are nothing short of stunning.

Discover more of the world's incredible natural wonders

Feasting at a Māori hāngi

Māori traditionally used the natural geothermal heat of Rotorua as a subterranean oven. At the Te Puia Māori cultural center you can enjoy a hāngi buffet lunch that includes chicken and lamb dishes cooked in a pit dug in the earth. As New Zealand reopens, hāngi experiences are also expected to return at Whakarewarewa and Tamaki Māori Village.

Being dazzled by Cathedral Cove

Exploring Waitomo Glowworm Caves

The Waitomo region on the North Island has plenty of limestone caves to explore and a boat ride through the dimly lit Waitomo Glowworm Caves is unmissable. Gliding along in silence with the cavern lit by what looks like thousands of stars is a magical experience.

The world's most beautiful caverns and caves  

White-water rafting on Kaituna River

New Zealand has some of the best white-water rafting in the world and Kaituna River near Rotorua is no exception. The river – one of the warmest in New Zealand – can be rafted year-round, but spring (September, October and November), is when the waterfalls are particularly epic. Kaituna Cascades offer 50-minute Grade 5 rafting tours tackling 14 rapids along the river.

Riding the TranzAlpine Express

The stupendous scenery of the TranzAlpine rail route between Christchurch and Greymouth takes in the Canterbury Plains, Southern Alps (jump off to explore Arthur's Pass), lush lake valleys and native beech forests. The train goes through short tunnels and crosses dramatic viaducts on its five-hour journey. Currently, face masks are required, even in the open-air viewing carriage.

These are the world's most luxurious train journeys

Cruising Cook Strait

Crossing the Cook Strait on the Interislander ferry between Wellington on the North Island and Picton on the South Island is a scenic ride. On the laid-back three-and-a-half-hour crossing, you’ll have unparalleled views of the Marlborough Sounds (pictured) and might spot seals, penguins, whales and dolphins.

Stargazing in the Southern Hemisphere

For an invigorated sense of wonder at the galaxy, enjoy a night-time visit to the Aoraki-Mackenzie Dark-Sky Reserve, which includes Canterbury University’s Mount John Observatory (pictured) above Lake Tekapo, or travel to the southernmost Dark Sky Sanctuary in the world on Stewart Island/Rakiura. It's a truly magical experience.

Skiing the Southern Alps

Kayaking in Abel Tasman National Park

The outstanding coastline of Abel Tasman National Park is the main reason to visit and paddling the picturesque islets and islands is an unmissable experience. From a kayak, you’re able to access secluded golden sand beaches that can’t be reached on foot. This might be the country's smallest national park, but it's perfectly formed for fabulous adventures that are not too strenuous. 

Tramping in Westland Tai Poutini National Park

Viewing the world’s clearest freshwater springs

Golden Bay’s Te Waikoropupu Springs (which translates as 'place of the dancing sands') is a serene spot to visit. While you can’t swim (the springs are a taonga, or treasure, to Māori), the stroll through the forest follows the stream and emerges at a viewing platform over the crystal-clear waters, some of the clearest in the world.

Immersing in art at Auckland Art Gallery

Auckland Art Gallery (Toi o Tāmaki) impresses from the outset. The building has a strong connection to Albert Park, which was once the site of a Māori pā (village site or hill fort). Māori commissions form part of the fabric of the building and exhibitions are world-class.

The world's most beautiful museums

Discovering giant kauri trees

Kauri trees can grow to more than 164 feet (50m) tall and once dominated the forests of the North Island. However, logging wiped out huge swathes of land and only a few kauri still stand. Waipoua Forest is one of the best places to have a close encounter with a kauri tree, several of which are more than 2,000 years old. Footprints Waipoua offer tours to visit these ancient giants from Opononi in Northland.

Whale watching off the Kaikoura Peninsula

Surfing Raglan, Waikato

The 1966 surf classic Endless Summer was filmed in Raglan and it’s a popular spot with surfers. The long peeling left-hand break at world-famous Manu Bay (five miles, or 8km, from Raglan) can get a little crowded, so Ngarunui (Ocean) Beach might be a better choice for beginners.

Ice climbing on the Southern Alps

Getting up close to penguins

The world’s rarest species of penguin, the yellow-eyed penguin (Megadyptes antipodes), or hoiho, can be spotted at Curio Bay in The Catlins. The southeast corner of the South Island is home to these protected birds and it’s estimated there are only around 6,000 to 7,000 of them left in the wild in New Zealand.

Paddleboarding Poor Knights Island

Cruising Milford Sound

South Island’s Fiordland National Park is one of the most pristine and spectacular places on the planet. The vast fiord known as Milford Sound, or Piopiotahi in the Māori language, has sheer rock walls rising 5,522 feet (1,683m) and a daytime or overnight cruise gives a unique perspective.

Searching for a kiwi

Paddling a waka

More than 800 years ago Māori arrived in New Zealand on waka (canoes) from eastern Polynesia. Learning about Māori heritage while paddling as a team along the beautiful Abel Tasman coast in single or double-hulled outrigger canoes is a special experience. Visitors learn the etiquette (tikanga) associated with waka before beginning the journey along the coast to Split Apple Rock. All trips also begin and end with a blessing (karakia) for protection.

Soaking in hot springs

There are plenty of hot springs in New Zealand, but Kerosene Creek (around a 30-minute drive from Rotorua) is totally free. Here, the tumbling waterfall and naturally heated hot pool is at the end of a short track and surrounded by native forest. For a more commercial experience, visit Ngawha in Northland, where 16 geothermal pools have recently been redeveloped and reopened in 2021. The Parahirahi Ngawha Waiariki Trust owns and operates Ngawha and upholds the cultural and spiritual values of the springs.

Visiting Cape Reinga

Standing at the lighthouse at the far north of New Zealand looking out at the Tasman Sea and the Pacific Ocean colliding, you can feel why it’s such a special place for Māori. This sacred site at the end of the road marks the point from which Māori wairua (spirit) return to their traditional homeland. While it's not the most northern point of the country (North Cape is, but it's not open to public), this is as far as you can get by road. There are guided coach tours departing from Kaitaia and Paihia daily too.

Walking the Pancake Rocks track

Fishing in the Tongariro River

The Tongariro River is the most important spawning habitat in the Great Lake Taupo region. The river runs through Turangi, which makes a great base for anyone keen on fly fishing for world-renowned rainbow trout. Tongariro Lodge has been offering guided experiences to over 40 rivers and three lakes since 1982 in the Lake Taupo region, including in the Tongariro River.

Cruising through the Hole in the Rock

The Bay of Islands is a watery wonderland with more than 100 offshore subtropical islands to explore. The talisman of the region is the Hole in the Rock (Piercy Island) – a spectacular rock formation that is possible to cruise right through on a calm day. Half-day tours leave from Paihia.

Touring “Wellywood”

Wellington is the capital of the New Zealand film industry and Miramar peninsula, 20-minutes from downtown, is where all the action happens. You can tour the digital workshop to get insight into the special effects that turn fantasy movies like The Lord of the Rings  and District 9 into reality and visit Wētā Cave (pictured) to buy props and merchandise made by the artists who work on the movies.

Stocking up at a farmers' market

On weekend mornings locals in every part of the country flock to their local farmers’ market to pick up fresh local produce. Buzzing markets include La Cigale French Market (in Auckland), Harbourside Market (in Wellington), Nelson Farmers Market, Christchurch Farmers' Market and Matakana Village Farmers' Market, pictured, which is zero waste.

Taking in an All Blacks haka

The haka is a complex dance and traditional Māori challenge that tribes built their reputation on. The intensity and ferocity of the All Blacks performing either Ka Mate or their own haka Kapa O Pango before a game is not easily forgotten. Catch a game at one of the international stadiums across New Zealand, from Auckland to Dunedin.

Hot air ballooning over the Canterbury Plains

Floating over the panoramic Canterbury Plains landscape is a never-to-be-forgotten experience. Hot air ballooning here is at its most magical and peaceful at sunrise. Ballooning Canterbury offers hour-long flights and balloon fiestas where you have the opportunity to float among other balloons.

The world's most incredible hot-air balloon rides

Carving pounamu (New Zealand greenstone)

Wood, stone and bone carving are prestigious art forms practiced by master carvers. Spending a day or more learning traditional Māori skills is a wonderful opportunity to learn more about all aspects of Māori culture (and you take home something you made with your own hands). You'll find many places that offer carving experiences all across the country.

Riding the streetcars in Christchurch

 A devastating earthquake in 2011 changed the skyline of Christchurch, on the South Island, forever. Luckily, the city's quaint heritage streetcars remain. They operate a hop-on-hop-off tour of the inner city, taking in all the major tourist sites (17 of them). Cathedral Square, where Christchurch Cathedral is being rebuilt to look much like the 1904 original, sits along the route as does the new Riverside Market on the banks of the Avon River. It has sprung up as part of the regeneration of the city.

Embracing freedom camping

Sure, there are restrictions on where you can camp, but New Zealand has many beautiful untouched spots where it’s possible to pitch or park up for free. Nothing beats the freedom of driving off the beaten track to set up a remote camp under the stars. Travel New Zealand has lots of valuable information when it comes to freedom camping. "While it is free of charge, it is not free of responsibility," they say, so read up before planning a trip.

Check out these brilliant camping and RV hacks

Hiking New Zealand's newest Great Walk

A new edition to the famous Great Walks of New Zealand, the Tuatapere Hump Ridge Track is set to open at the end of 2022. This three-day, 38-mile (61km) loop through Fiordland gives access to sensational southern coastline, native forests, limestone tors and historic viaducts. Trampers must book the two backcountry lodges in advance – Okaka at 3,281 feet (1,000m) and Port Craig at sea level.

High-altitude heliskiing

New Zealand has some stunning high-altitude destinations for heliskiing. Take a chopper from Queenstown or Wanaka to the Southern Alps or to Aoraki Mount Cook, where you'll land in the best dry powder snow and can take a number of runs. You need to be a strong skier, but there's a wide range of terrain so it's possible to be dropped somewhere a little less advanced. Powder skis or all-mountain skis are recommended. Tourism New Zealand offers a handy guide to companies offering heliskiing experiences.

These are the most dangerous tourist attractions in Australia

More for You

Viral video shows confrontation between Black student and counterprotesters at Ole Miss

18 ‘Normal’ Things From the ’80s and ’90s That Are Considered Luxuries Now

James Webb Space Telescope's View Of 5000 Galaxies In 4K 3D Visualization

10 used cars with the best engines you can buy

Archaeologists Find Rare Item Worth More to Romans Than Its Weight in Gold

Politico mocked for being surprised on who is funding anti-Israel protests: 'Surprising to who?'

Rock Queens: Recognizing 25 Women Who Shaped the Music Industry

Map reveals best places to live in the US if nuclear war breaks out

Kansas City Chiefs release former second-round pick at WR

This Is How Much Gas You Should Be Keeping in Your Tank

Liam Neeson thriller proves to be huge hit on Netflix despite critics' reviews

70 retro photos that will take '70s kids back in time

I drove the Tesla Cybertruck. These 7 design flaws surprised me.

Scientists discover 'missing' continent that had been seen for 375 years

Top RNC lawyer resigns after less than 2 months

Here's What It Means If Someone Gives You Yellow Roses

8 foods you need to avoid before bed for better sleep

Can Any Jet Beat The F-22 Raptor?

I visited Walmart and saw more than 25 premium items you might not expect to find there

Smashing! The Very Best From Tim Curry

Popular places

Wānaka, Otago, New Zealand

By Miles Holden

Waimangu Volcanic Valley, Rotorua, New Zealand

Explore Abel Tasman National Park, New Zealand

By Nelson Tasman

Discover more of Aotearoa in some of New Zealand's best destinations. With awe-inspiring landscapes, exciting activities, and friendly people, it's little wonder everyone loves these prime spots.

From jaw-dropping  mountains  and crystal clear waters  to Māori culture and geothermal valleys , these are the best places to visit the wonders that make New Zealand so popular. 

Milford Sound

Famously described by Rudyard Kipling as the 'eighth wonder of the world', Milford Sound is where plunging cliffs and raging waterfalls meet cold dark waters. Breathtaking in any weather, you can see why it is one of the best places in New Zealand.  Explore

Milford Sound on a coach and cruise tour, go kayaking, or lace up your walking shoes and tackle some of the area's stunning tracks.

Best known for its geothermal wonders and powerful Māori culture, Rotorua has welcomed visitors for decades.  With attractions and experiences for everyone from adventure-seekers to those just looking to relax and unwind.  Crystal-clear streams, magical forests, epic biking trails and thermal mud pools, Rotorua has it all. 

Waiheke Island

Just a 40-minute ferry ride from Auckland CBD, you'll find Waiheke Island, a haven of beautiful vineyards and beaches. Known for its food and wine-tasting, flying-fox zipline, and walking trails, Waiheke is the best weekend to spot to indulge. 

An hour drive from Rotorua is the stunning town of Taupō. Best known for its giant lake, ski fields, alpine deserts, geothermal valleys, and the thundering Huka Falls, Taupō is perfect for both thrill-seeking adventurers and active relaxers. 

Abel Tasman

Abel Tasman National Park is New Zealand's smallest yet one of the most beautiful national parks.  You can choose to explore the park from land, on the water, or in the air, with tour operators aplenty offering cruises, water taxi services, kayaking options, heli-tours and sailing catamarans.

Mount Maunganui

Known for its pristine mountain top view, white-sand beaches, hot saltwater pools and many beachfront cafes, Mount Maunganui is a coastal paradise.  The main beach was crowned by TripAdvisor as the best beach in New Zealand  and is ranked among the top 25 best beaches in the world.

Located in the South Island Alps, visitors from around the world are drawn to Wanaka by its beauty. With stunning mountains, a prime lakeside setting and proximity to Mt Aspiring National Park, it's no wonder Wanaka is one of the best places to visit year-round.

Three hours north of Auckland, you'll find Paihia, the perfect place to start exploring the Bay of Islands. In Paihia, y ou'll be spoiled for choice with water-based activities that include fast boats to the Hole in the Rock, fishing, sea kayaks, sailing, scuba diving, and paddleboarding. 

#PopularPlacesNZ

• Share on Facebook
• Share by email

8 Places On Earth In 2024 That Look Out Of This World

Take a trip to another planet with these otherworldly destinations across the globe.

• Wulingyuan Scenic Area in China boasts sandstone pillars resembling the Hallelujah Mountains from Avatar when fog rolls in.
• Pamukkale in Turkey offers terrace-like rock formations, cascading pools, and ruins of ancient thermal spas worth visiting.
• Lençóis Maranhenses National Park in Brazil features massive sand dunes with blue and green lagoons from rainfall, a unique landscape.

The world is full of many highly visited natural wonders , from the Great Barrier Reef to the Grand Canyon. However, some of the Earth's most striking landscapes and landmarks seem almost otherworldly, whether vast caves lit by thousands of glowworms or expansive salt flats that mirror the blue sky.

From China to Namibia and more, here are several unreal and incredible places on Earth that look out of this world (literally).

10 Coolest Pyramids In The World, That Aren't In Egypt

8 wulingyuan scenic area, china, the sandstone pillars and foggy peaks of wulingyuan are like a scene out of avatar.

Spanning more than 100 square miles, the Wulingyuan Scenic Area is situated in China's Hunan Province and characterized by thousands of sandstone pillars, some as high as 656 feet.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the area's unique, contrasting landscape of ravines, peaks, waterfalls, and caves draws millions of visitors per year.

Particularly when the fog rolls in, the Wulingyuan Scenic Area feels like another planet — you may even recognize its similarity to the Hallelujah Mountains of Pandora in Avatar .

• Top Attractions: Golden Whip to Avatar Mountain
• Best Time To Visit: April-October
• Cost of Entry: Varies by season

7 Pamukkale, Turkey

The otherworldly rock formations of pamukkale are rich in minerals and history.

Also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Pamukkale is best known for its terrace-like rock formations formed over hundreds of years of flowing mineral-rich thermal waters.

The Turkish landmark was used as a thermal spa in Ancient Greece, and you can still see ruins of baths and temples when visiting Pamukkale today. These cascading pools of water are a rare, natural wonder worth visiting.

• Top Attractions: Pamukkale Thermal Pools and Pamukkale Tiyatrosu
• Best Time To Visit: Spring and fall
• Cost of Entry: $11

Those Are The 10 Coolest Passport Stamps Anyone Can Have

6 lençois maranhenses national park, brazil, walk on massive sand dunes filled with freshwater lagoons.

The 598 square mile Lençois Maranhenses National Park in northeastern Brazil boasts the largest field of sand dunes on the continent of South America.

This otherworldly landscape is marked with blue and green freshwater lagoons created by rainfall in the region. This unique meeting of sand and water may one day warrant the park becoming a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

• Top Attractions: Lagoa das Sete Mulheres and Lagoa do Junco
• Best Time To Visit: May-October
• Cost of Entry: Free

5 Waitomo Glowworm Caves, New Zealand

These dark, otherworldly caves in new zealand are lit by glowworms.

One of New Zealand's top attractions, visitors have been touring the Waitomo Glowworm Caves for more than 130 years.

By foot and by boat, visitors can explore the Waitomo Glowworm Caves , lit by the celestial-looking Arachnocampa luminosa larvae, also called glowworms.

• Top Attractions: The Cathedral and glow worm grotto
• Best Time To Visit: October-April
• Cost of Entry: $45

4 Danakil Depression, Ethiopia

The hottest place on earth is home to an alien-like landscape of volcanoes, acid springs, and more.

If you're seeking not just the landscape but the climate of another planet — like one closer to the sun — book a tour to visit the Danakil Depression , also known as the Gateway to Hell.

As the hottest destination on Earth, this 124-mile by 31-mile stretch of land in northern Ethiopia sits at 410 feet below sea level and is marked by volcanoes, salt lakes, lava lakes, and brightly-colored acid springs.

• Top Attractions: Erta Ale and Lake Afrera
• Best Time To Visit: November-February
• Cost of Entry: Varies by tour

10 Truly Fascinating Underwater Phenomena (& How To See Them)

3 the skeleton coast, namibia, from rusting shipwrecks to raging currents, this stark coastline is like another planet.

The Skeleton Coast is named for the centuries-old shipwrecks and whale skeletons that litter its shoreline where sand dunes meet the Atlantic Ocean in Namibia.

The area is now a 6,504-square-mile national park known for its treacherous waters and jutting sand dunes.

This otherworldly landscape was also used as one of the many filming locations for the Fallout TV show that you can visit , resembling a barren, apocalyptic wasteland.

• Top Attractions: Kolmanskop and The Ugab River
• Best Time To Visit: July-August
• Cost of Entry: $20

2 Salar de Uyuni, Bolivia

The sky blends with the land on this massive salt flat.

As the largest salt flat in the world, Salar de Uyuni was formed when prehistoric lakes evaporated, leaving behind the salt deposits we see today.

• Top Attractions: Isla Incahuasi
• Best Time To Visit: March-April

Kolmanskop Is Arguably Africa's Most Famous Ghost Town

1 antelope canyon, usa, walk through 'waves' of sandstone in the iconic antelope canyon of arizona.

While not a US national park, Antelope Canyon is part of the Navajo Nation Parks and one of the most photographed spots in the American Southwest.

One of the most famous slot canyons, Antelope's smooth, orange-hued sandstone walls form a wave-like structure, often appearing purple and red around midday.

The trails to the canyon, such as the Upper and Lower Canyon trails, are among the planet's most otherworldly hiking trails , resembling a Mars-like landscape.

• Top Attractions: Upper and lower canyon hiking trails
• Best Time To Visit: March-October
• Cost of Entry: $8

• MyAucklandUni
• Student Services Online
• Class search
• Student email
• Change my password
• MyCDES+ (job board)
• Course outlines
• Learning essentials
• Libraries and Learning Services
• Forms, policies and guidelines
• New students
• Enrol in courses
• Campus card
• Postgraduate students
• Summer school
• AskAuckland
• Student Hubs
• Student IT Hub
• Student Health and Counselling
• Harassment, bullying, sexual assault and other violence
• Complaints and incidents
• Career Development and Employability Services (CDES)
• Ratonga Hauātanga Tauira | Student Disability Services (SDS)
• Rainbow support
• Covid-19 information for our community
• Emergency information
• Report concerns, incidents and hazards
• Health and safety topics
• Staff email
• Staff intranet
• ResearchHub
• PeopleSoft HR
• Forms register
• Careers at the University
• Education Office
• Early childhood centres
• University Calendar
• Opportunities
• Update your details
• Make a donation
• Publications
• Photo galleries
• Video and audio
• Career services
• Virtual Book Club
• Library services
• Alumni benefits
• Office contact details
• Alumni and friends on social media
• No events scheduled for today You have no more events scheduled for today
• Next event:
• Show {0} earlier events Show {0} earlier event
• Event_Time Event_Name Event_Description
• My Library Account
• Change Password
• Edit Profile
• My GPA Grade Point Average About your GPA GPA not available Why can't I see my GPA?
• My Progress
• Points Required Completed points My Progress Progress not available All done!
• Student hubs
• Health and counselling
• All support
• Health, safety and well-being

Breadcrumbs List.

• News and opinion

German foreign minister describes Space Institute as a special place

University news , Science and technology , Faculty of Engineering , Faculty of Science

On her first visit to New Zealand, Germany’s Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock was the guest at a showcase on research and innovation in the space sector.

Germany’s Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock described the University of Auckland’s Space Institute, Te Pūnaha Ātea, as "a special place, combining campus life with cutting-edge research".

Minister Baerbock was hosted by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Research Professor Frank Bloomfield, on her first visit to New Zealand on Saturday (4 May).

Following a mihi delivered by Michael Steedman, kaiarataki from the office of the Pro Vice-Chancellor, Māori, Professor Bloomfield welcomed Minister Baerbock and her delegation of members of the Bundestag, the German Ambassador to New Zealand Nicole Menzenbach and German media.

Professor Bloomfield outlined the range of research partnerships the University has with German and European research programmes.

“We believe New Zealand is an innovative and dynamic partner in research. We are interested in leveraging the respective strengths of New Zealand and Germany to grow current and build future research partnerships.”

The focus of Minister Baerbock’s visit was the University’s space research, supporting one of the country’s fastest growing and transformative sectors.

At the Space Institute, the Minister was briefed on a range of research programmes, including the role of the Institute’s Mission Operations Control Centre which will assume control of the country’s first space mission MethaneSAT later this year.

Minister Baerbock said, “This satellite technology will help to hold companies accountable and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. What happens in space affects our security on Earth in many ways and it can also help to meet the global challenges of our planet.”

Researchers participate in several significant projects with the German Aerospace Centre, Deutshes Zentrum für Luft-und Raumfahrt (DLR) and the European Space Agency.

• Free Space Optical Communications : Associate Professor Nicholas Rattenbury is working with the DLR on technology to enable Free Space Optical Communications (FSOC). The goal is to use an optical beam to transmit data in space. The radio frequency spectrum has become crowded and optical beams offer greater security of communications. The work is jointly funded by an MBIE Catalyst grant and the DLR.
• Carbon-Reinforced Polymers: Professor Mark Battley is leading work on how to use carbon-reinforced polymers in the construction of rockets. The use of polymers potentially offers significant weight reduction and better opportunities for reuse to improve sustainability.
• LISA Mission : Professor Richard Easther is a collaborator on the European Space Agency led Laser Interferometer Space Antenna (LISA). Its primary goal is to observe low-frequency gravitational waves (ripples in the fabric of spacetime) from various cosmic sources such as colliding black holes. The mission involves three spacecraft flying in a triangular formation, trailing Earth in its orbit around the Sun. The LISA mission was adopted in January 2024, with construction set to begin in January 2025 for launch in the mid-2030s.

The Minister was also briefed on:

• Space Debris and Space Situational Awareness: Professor Guglielmo Aglietti, Director of the Space Institute, and Professor Roberto Armellin specialise in space mission design: how space missions navigate, are controlled and tracked. Their work is particularly relevant to the growing space debris problem.
• Sustainable Space: Dr Priyanka Dhopade is researching space activity from a ‘life-cycle perspective,’ considering the environmental, social, cultural, and economic impacts of space technology with the goal to reduce the sector’s carbon footprint.
• Frond Space Systems: Alumni Dr Ben Taylor uses Space Institute facilities to develop a deployable dragsail that would enable the speedier destruction of spacecraft at the end of their life to reduce space debris.

• View all 10 photos

This dialog can be closed by pressing the Escape Key or using the Close button.

Media contact: Gilbert Wong, 021 917942, gilbert.wong@auckland.ac.nz

Humboldt winners

• One plus one equals remarkable: double Humboldt win
• University to operate methane tracking satellite