tourist spot of new zealand

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

10 of the best things to do in New Zealand

Oct 4, 2023 • 8 min read

These are New Zealand's unmissable activities © Nicram Sabod / Shutterstock

Spectacular and diverse, New Zealand (also known as Aotearoa) is one of the world's most memorable destinations.

From its inspirational Indigenous Māori cultural experiences to its epic and otherworldly national parks , it can be hard to narrow down what to do. You can spend your days soaking in the urban energy of Auckland and Wellington, challenging yourself on outdoor adventures around Queenstown, cycling through Central Otago’s historic towns and big-sky landscapes or trying to spot the country’s iconic kiwi bird on Stewart Island/Rakiura.

Craft your own southern hemisphere adventure from this list of the best things to do in New Zealand.

1. Experience vibrant Māori culture

There are countless ways to engage with New Zealand’s Indigenous Māori culture while exploring the country. You can expect to hear greetings in te reo Māori (the Māori language) frequently, but for a deeper dive, the Auckland Museum and Waikato Museum both have displays of centuries-old Māori taonga (treasures). Around Rotorua , families from the local Te Arawa iwi (tribe) entertain and energize visitors with cultural performances and experiences, including the opportunity to take part in a haka (a ceremonial war dance made famous by the country’s All Blacks rugby team) or experience a hāngī (a Māori feast cooked in the ground). 

Detour: From Rotorua, travel 61km (38 miles) southeast to the isolated logging town of Murupara. Stays at the family-owned Kohutapu Lodge include excursions to catch tuna (endemic longfin eels), visits to historic Māori rock art sites and hiking through the Whirinaki Te Pua-a-Tāne Conservation Park, a spiritually significant site said to be one of the world’s last prehistoric forests.

2. Be immersed in Auckland’s diversity

Framed by two harbors and built on the sprawling remnants of more than 50 long-inactive volcanoes, Auckland is New Zealand's most diverse and cosmopolitan city. Visit the weekly Otara and Avondale markets to taste Pacific and Asian cuisine from communities drawn to Tāmaki Makaurau (the Māori name for Auckland). Or time your visit to experience popular cultural events including Pasifika , Diwali and the Lantern Festival. Good beaches, nearby wine regions, and a dynamic dining scene are other reasons why Auckland is consistently rated one of the world's most liveable cities.

Planning tip: Join Auckland’s most passionate fans while taking in a match featuring the New Zealand Warriors (a rugby league team) or the Auckland Blues (a rugby union team).

3. Hike one of New Zealand’s Great Walks

Hiking (known as “tramping”) is one of New Zealand’s most popular pastimes, with well-established wilderness tracks, shelters (called “huts”) and campsites throughout the country. Highlights include the meandering forest trails of the Rakiura Track on compact Stewart Island/Rakiura and the beach-fringed Abel Tasman Coast Track in the Nelson/Tasman region. Anchoring the rugged geothermal heart of the North Island, Tongariro National Park's most popular trail is the Tongariro Alpine Crossing , a single-day wilderness experience skirting two volcanoes and taking in views of craters, iridescent lakes and the sprawling Central Plateau.

Planning tip: All of New Zealand's  10 (soon to be 11) Great Walks are very popular, and New Zealand's Department of Conservation (DOC) caps visitor numbers at a safe and sustainable level. To secure your spot, you’ll need to book in advance when the Great Walks booking system opens , usually from around May. The Great Walks season runs from late October to April, and the most popular experiences like the Milford and Routeburn Tracks often sell out in minutes. If you miss out; don’t worry. There are hundreds of other trails throughout the country to explore. 

4. Negotiate a two-wheeled adventure in Central Otago

New Zealand's first – and arguably best – multi-day cycling experience is the Otago Central Rail Trail . An undulating ride through sunbaked southern landscapes and the heritage streetscapes of former gold-mining towns, it takes four to six days to complete. Along the way, you can feast on locally grown summer stonefruit, visit contemporary vineyards known for world-class pinot noir, and toast the end of each day with a well-earned beer at historic pubs. E-bikes are a convenient option to maximize your enjoyment of this classic South Island experience, with operators throughout the region offering rentals and guided tours.

Detour: Linking the towns of Cromwell and Clyde, the 55km (34-mile)  Lake Dunstan Cycle Trail traverses the spectacular Cromwell Gorge via an 85m-long (279ft) suspension bridge and a spectacular cantilevered wooden biking track.

5. Seek out kiwis on Stewart Island/Rakiura

At the southern tip of the South Island, Stewart Island/Rakiura is New Zealand's third-largest island, home to a rugged community of around 400 hardy souls, where 85% of the land is protected by Rakiura National Park . Birdlife around Stewart Island/Raikura and the adjacent islet of Ulva Island includes rare hoiho (yellow-eyed penguins), raucous kākā (a type of parrot) and mellifluous bellbirds. However, the undoubted avian highlight is viewing tokoeka (Southern brown kiwi) in the wild. Join a twilight expedition with local operators including Beaks & Feathers and Ruggedy Range Wilderness Experiences to see Aotearoa's beloved national bird snuffling about on beaches and in the forest. Visit from March to September to also potentially glimpse the aurora australis (southern lights), the inspiration for Stewart Island's Māori name: Rakiura, which means “glowing skies.”

Planning tip: Ferries take one hour to cross the Foveaux Strait from Bluff on the mainland to Stewart Island/Rakiura. The crossing can sometimes be rough, so an alternative is a 20-minute flight from Invercargill.

6. Commune with marine mammals around Kaikōura 

Attracted by the nutrient-rich waters of the Kaikōura Canyon – a submarine valley just 800m (2624ft) off the east coast of New Zealand’s South Island – the coastal town of Kaikōura is visited by various whale species throughout the year. Join a boat trip with Whale Watch Kaikōura , owned and operated by the local Ngāti Kuri iwi (Māori tribe), to see visiting humpback, orca, southern right and pilot whales. Resident marine mammals include sperm whales, dolphins and kekeno (New Zealand fur seals). The pelagic birdwatching here is also some of the best on the planet.

Planning tip: Kaikōura translates from te reo Māori as "eat crayfish". The spiny crustacean is a popular item on pub menus and roadside food caravans around the region. Try one at Nin’s Bin or Kaikōura Seafood BBQ .

7. Have a capital time in Wellington

Compact and walkable, New Zealand’s harbor capital of Wellington is the ideal urban destination to balance and complement adventures in Aotearoa’s great outdoors. Explore the city’s pioneering craft beer heritage at local breweries including Garage Project, Heyday and Parrotdog, before learning about the movie-making magic of The Hobbit and Lord of the Rings franchises at Wētā Workshop . The nation’s capital also boasts a vibrant arts and live music scene, with free events hosted throughout the year.

Planning tip: Visit (and book accommodation well ahead) for the Beervana craft beer festival in August. Also popular is Wellington on a Plate (WOAP), an annual celebration of the city’s dynamic culinary scene.

8. Explore architectural history in Hawke’s Bay

Rocked by an earthquake in 1931, the Hawke’s Bay cities of Napier and Hastings were rebuilt in the popular architectural styles of the day, and now the region boasts some of the world’s best-preserved art deco and Spanish Mission architectural precincts. From Napier’s Norfolk pine-trimmed Marine Parade, join a walking tour of the city’s cavalcade of art deco buildings, some also decorated with the cross-cultural influence of traditional Māori design motifs.

Detour: New Zealand winemaking began in Hawke’s Bay in the 1850s, and the region’s well-established vineyards and excellent winery restaurants are best explored on two wheels. See On Yer Bike online for details of bike hire and recommended wine trails.

9. Get active around Queenstown

Nowhere else in New Zealand reinforces the country’s reputation for adrenaline-fuelled adventure activities like Queenstown . Amid beautiful lake and sub-alpine scenery, definitely sign up for a bungy jump . (It’s almost mandatory – the breathtaking leap of faith was invented in New Zealand, after all.) You can also consider other thrill rides like  Oxbow Adventures ’ exciting combo of jet sprint boats (which can reach up to 100km/h, or 62mph, in just 2.5 seconds) and extreme 4WD offroading. After all the action, adjourn to Altitude Brewing ’s ​lakeside location for great beers and tasty visits from local food trucks.

Detour: Reached via a scenic road over the Crown Range, Wānaka is Queenstown’s less manic Southern Lakes sibling. Catch a boat on Lake Wānaka to explore the island bird sanctuary of Mou Waho .

10. Kayak in pristine Fiordland

Cruising through Milford Sound /Piopiotahi on a day trip is popular, but a better strategy for experiencing the scale, spectacle and stillness of Fiordland ’s most famous sheltered anchorage is to explore it by kayak. Hook up with Roscoe’s Milford Kayaks for the ultimate on-the-water views of the fiord’s cascading quicksilver waterfalls and massive forest-covered cliffs. Sunriser classic tours loop for 10km (6 miles) around Milford Sound and depart well before the inevitable arrival of daytrippers visiting from Te Anau or Queenstown.

Detour: Fiordland’s Doubtful Sound/Patea (meaning "place of silence" in te reo Māori ) is even quieter and less visited than Milford Sound/Piopiotahi. Join a guided kayak tour with Te Anau-based Doubtful Sound Kayak or stay overnight on the MV Fiordland Jewel with Fiordland Discovery .

This article was first published Apr 22, 2021 and updated Oct 4, 2023.

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Touropia Travel

Discover the World

27 Top Tourist Attractions in New Zealand

By Spencer Leasca · Last updated on May 4, 2024

A small island nation of just over 5 million people in the southwestern Pacific Ocean, this incredible destination boasts breathtaking landscapes, amazing natural wonders and a vibrant Maori culture.

The country comprises two distinct islands, the North and South, and is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers. As you embark on a journey through New Zealand, you will be mesmerized by its diverse terrain. Ranging from beautiful golden beaches to stunning fjords and the snow-capped peaks of the Southern Alps.

The Kiwi spirit, reflected in the warm and welcoming locals, adds an inviting charm to every corner of the country. At the same time, you can immerse yourself in the rich Maori heritage through traditional performances, art and the welcoming ‘hongi’ greeting.

Whether exploring the bustling cities, hiking through gorgeous landscapes, trying world-class wines, or engaging in high-adrenaline extreme sports, there is an unparalleled range of thing to do in New Zealand as well as plenty of amazing tourist attractions.

27. Roys Peak Track, Wanaka

New Zealand has many outstanding destinations where you can inhale the freshest air, take in incredible scenery and stretch your legs. One of the most notable of them is Roys Peak Track in Wanaka.

This moderately challenging hiking trail takes you to the summit of Roys Peak, which offers a stunning panorama of Lake Wanaka, the surrounding mountains and the Southern Alps. The trail winds through golden tussock grasslands, which create a stunning contrast against the pristine blue waters below.

Overall, the hike covers about a 16-kilometer round trip and requires good stamina, but the experience is unforgettable. As you ascend, the landscape changes, offering differing perspectives of the lake and its surroundings. Once at the summit, the breathtaking 360-degree views will give you goosebumps.

26. Doubtful Sound

Patea, or Doubtful Sound as it is commonly known, is a mesmerizing fjord residing within Fiordland’s pristine wilderness.

Accessible by boat from the quaint town of Manapouri, the journey to Doubtful Sound is a serene experience as it unfolds through calm waters and dense rainforest-clad hills. Unlike its more famous counterpart, Milford Sound, Doubtful Sound is less touristy, offering a profound sense of isolation and tranquillity.

The fjord is a photographer’s dream, featuring dramatic cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and reflections of the surrounding mountains mirrored in the dark, tannin-stained waters. It is also an untouched paradise that is a thriving home to wildlife, with seals, dolphins and native birds often gracing the scenery. To best appreciate the landscape’s sheer grandeur, take a cruise into the middle of it.

25. Larnach Castle, Dunedin

Perched atop the stunning Otago Peninsula in Dunedin, Larnach Castle embodies the country’s rich history.

This imposing structure was completed in 1871 and is New Zealand’s only castle. It showcases a unique blend of Victorian opulence and Gothic Revival architecture. Originally built by William Larnach – a prominent entrepreneur and politician – the castle boasts splendid panoramic views of the Otago Harbour and the surrounding landscape.

The edifice boasts a captivating history, which includes tales of scandal and tragedy within the Larnach family. Today, Larnach Castle operates as a heritage attraction. Visitors can explore the meticulously restored interior, adorned with intricate craftsmanship, antique furnishings and beautiful gardens. They can also enjoy the beautiful floral displays in its enchanting gardens that complement this historic landmark.

24. Moeraki Boulders

Nestled along the shimmering waters of Koekohe Beach near Hampden, the Moeraki Boulders are a geological marvel that has captivated visitors for centuries.

These mysterious and massive spherical boulders, scattered across the sandy shoreline, originated from ancient sea sediment formations over 60 million years ago. The boulders range from small in size to colossal (some reaching three meters in diameter), embodying nature’s fascinating sculptural abilities.

As well as their mesmerizing looks, the rocks are steeped in Maori legend – which suggests they are petrified remains of eel baskets and gourds.

However you believe they formed, the spherical shapes create a surreal and enchanting landscape you’ll want to spend plenty of time photographing and exploring.

23. Nevis Bungy Jump

If your idea of a good time involves jumping off a bridge and hurtling towards a river at breakneck speed, you’ll want to visit Nevis Bungy Jump in Queenstown . Bunny jumping was invited here and it’s one of the most exciting things to do in New Zealand.

Situated amidst the spectacular Nevis Valley, this adrenaline-pumping leap into the abyss is operated by AJ Hackett, who pride themselves on being pioneers in commercial bungy jumping. Suspending you 134 meters above the Nevis River, they offer one of the world’s highest and most thrilling jumps.

For those brave enough to try it, the Nevis Bungy promises an exhilarating mix of fear and euphoria. Getting to the jump-off point is an adventure in itself – involving a scenic cable car ride high above the valley. Upon reaching the purpose-built jump pod, the brave souls embark on a heart-stopping plunge – freefalling at speeds of up to 130 kilometers per hour for around 8.5 seconds.

22. Nelson Lakes

Situated within the northern part of New Zealand’s South Island, Nelson Lakes is a stunning alpine region known for its pristine lakes, lush beech forests and towering mountain peaks.

The park encompasses two main lakes – Rotoiti and Rotoroa – surrounded by snow-capped mountains and offering clear, reflective waters. It offers diverse recreational activities, including hiking, fishing, kayaking, and bird watching.

For those wanting to traverse substantial parts of the park, the well-known Travers-Sabine Circuit offers a multi-day trek showcasing the area’s natural beauty.

Visitors can also explore native beech forests, marvel at the alpine flora, and encounter unique birdlife. With its tranquil ambience and captivating landscapes, Nelson Lakes is perfect for those seeking serenity and adventure.

21. Christchurch Botanic Gardens

Christchurch is known as the Garden City of New Zealand, and at the center of it lies it’s Botanic Gardens.

One of the most iconic attractions in New Zealand, these gardens were established in 1863. They are meticulously landscaped and showcase an impressive collection of vibrant native and exotic plant species.

Meandering through the heart of the gardens is the Avon River, which adds to its beautiful aesthetic and tranquil atmosphere. Visitors can explore themed gardens, like the Rose Garden, Herb Garden and Rock Garden, each offering a unique botanical experience.

Additionally, the captivating Canterbury Museum, within the gardens, provides a fascinating insight into the region’s natural and cultural history. At the same time, the Victorian-era Curator’s House adds a touch of historical charm.

20. Waimangu Volcanic Valley

Located near Rotorua on New Zealand’s North Island, Waimangu Volcanic Valley is a geological wonderland shaped by the eruption of Mount Tarawera in 1886.

Established as a result of this cataclysmic event, Waimangu is the world’s youngest geothermal system. The valley is adorned with hot springs, steaming fumaroles and vibrant silica terraces, creating a surreal and otherworldly landscape.

Visitors to Waimangu can explore the diverse ecosystems – from Inferno Crater Lake to Frying Pan Lake, the world’s largest hot spring. Guided walks offer insights into the fascinating geological formations and the regrowth of native flora and fauna in the wake of destruction.

If you have the time, be sure to take the valley’s Waimangu Volcanic Rift Valley Cruise. It provides a unique, close-up perspective of the geothermal features of the tranquil waters of Lake Rotomahana.

19. 90 Mile Beach

Stretching along the western coast of the far north of New Zealand’s North Island, 90 Mile Beach is one of nature’s more remarkable expanses of sand.

Despite its name, this stunning coastal stretch is closer to 55 miles long. But it is renowned for its beauty, golden color and uniqueness. The beach is a designated highway, allowing vehicles to drive along its firm, compacted sands at low tide. Its expansive dunes and rugged coastal landscape provide a picturesque backdrop for activities such as sandboarding, fishing and exploring the Te Paki Coastal Track.

In addition to its natural allure, the beach holds cultural significance for the local Maori, with historical sites and legends adding to its mystique.

18. Te Papa Museum, Wellington

If you want to learn more about the Maori culture, one of the best places in New Zealand to do this is at Te Papa Tongarewa.

Colloquially referred to as Te Papa, the institution is located in the capital city of Wellington and is the country’s national museum. Its name translates to ‘Our Place’ in the Maori language.

Opened in 1998, the museum’s striking architecture and waterfront location draw visitors into a fascinating world of immersive exhibits and interactive displays. Collectively, they showcase the nation’s rich cultural, natural, and historical heritage.

Te Papa’s diverse collections encompass Maori and Pacific artifacts, natural history specimens, contemporary art, and interactive technology installations. Notable exhibits include the colossal squid, Maori taonga (treasures), and the engaging Awesome Forces display on New Zealand’s geological forces.

17. Hamilton Gardens

Over on the North Island, Hamilton Gardens is another supreme set of themed gardens to pencil in a visit to.

Running along the banks of the Waikato River, the gardens transport visitors through different civilizations, cultures and historical periods. Established in 1960, they have evolved into an award-winning, internationally acclaimed attraction, showcasing a range of garden styles, from the serene Japanese Garden to the intricate Renaissance Italian Garden.

Highlights include the Paradise Collection, which features gardens inspired by India, China and the United States, The Tudor Garden and the New Zealand Cultivar Garden.

As well as its enclosed gardens and open lawns, the gardens comprise a lake, a nursery, a convention center and the Hamilton East Cemetery.

16. Huka Falls

Huka Falls is an awe-inspiring natural wonder on the Waikato River near Taupo on New Zealand’s North Island.

It features a narrow chasm where the Waikato River, the longest river in New Zealand, is compressed to a mere 15-meter-wide gorge. This causes a roaring rush of water to plummet 11 meters into the pool below.

The falls are known for their intense turquoise-colored water and the sheer volume of water that surges through the gorge – creating a dramatic display of power and beauty. The region’s geothermal activity contributes to the water’s striking coloration, making the cascade even more impressive.

Besides being a visual marvel, Huka Falls offers thrilling, high-adrenaline experiences such as jet boat rides and walking trails. They allow visitors to explore and appreciate this outstanding natural wonder from different perspectives.

15. Punakaiki Pancake Rocks and Blowholes

Nestled on the rugged west coast of New Zealand’s South Island, Punakaiki is home to the spectacular Pancake Rocks and Blowholes.

The Pancake Rocks, named for their stacked, layered appearance resembling stacks of pancakes, are limestone formations created over millions of years by the erosive forces of the Tasman Sea. The best way to see them is on elevated viewing platforms that offer panoramic vistas of these unique geological structures.

What makes Punakaiki truly mesmerizing are the Blowholes. As the sea surges into caverns beneath the Pancake Rocks, powerful water jets erupt through vertical shafts, creating impressive geysers. The natural spectacle is particularly captivating during high tide and stormy weather. Visitors can explore the Punakaiki Cavern and Truman Track to witness these remarkable coastal features from a different perspective.

14. Waitomo Caves

Waitomo Caves, nestled in the lush landscapes of the Waikato region on the North Island, are a subterranean wonder renowned for their enchanting glowworm displays and unique limestone formations.

The caves, formed over millions of years, offer a mesmerizing underground adventure. Visitors can embark on boat tours through the dark caverns, where thousands of luminescent glowworms create a captivating celestial-like glow on the cave ceilings.

The most famous cave, the Ruakuri Cave, features stunning stalactites and stalagmites, showcasing the intricate beauty of nature’s geological artistry. For the adventurous, the Waitomo Caves also offer abseiling and blackwater rafting opportunities, providing a thrilling and immersive experience in this underground world.

Overall, for those interested in discovering the natural wonders concealed beneath New Zealand’s picturesque landscapes, the Waitomo Caves are a must-visit destination.

13. Lake Wakatipu

Lake Wakatipu, located on the South Island of New Zealand, is a breathtaking in-land glacial lake known for its stunning alpine scenery and unique shape.

Surrounded by the dramatic Southern Alps, the lake is the third-largest lake in New Zealand. What sets Lake Wakatipu apart from others in Aotearoa is its unique ‘S’ shape – believed by Maori legend to be the heartbeat of a slumbering giant named Matau.

The town of Queenstown, nestled on the lake’s shores, serves as a gateway to the region’s outdoor adventures. Tourists can enjoy cruises on a restored steamship on pristine waters framed by mountainous backdrops. Alternatively, they can explore the lakeside area via a network of walking and biking trails.

12. Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park

Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, situated on New Zealand’s South Island, is a rugged and majestic alpine expanse dominated by the country’s highest peak, Aoraki (Mount Cook). It is named after the Maori word for ‘Cloud Piercer’ and towers imperiously over a pristine wilderness of glaciers, snowfields and turquoise-hued lakes.

This UNESCO World Heritage Site attracts outdoor enthusiasts and mountaineers with its challenging peaks, including the iconic Mount Tasman. For those who want to explore it on foot, the Hooker Valley Track offers a popular hike that provides stunning views of Aoraki and the Hooker Glacier.

At night, the park is a stargazer’s paradise. Designated as an International Dark Sky Reserve, it offers unparalleled views of the Southern Hemisphere’s glittering night sky.

11. Sky Tower, Auckland

Dominating the city skyline, The Sky Tower is an iconic landmark in Auckland . It is notable for being the Southern Hemisphere’s tallest freestanding structure and offers panoramic views of Auckland’s stunning landscapes – including the harbors, cityscape, and surrounding islands. Completed in 1997, the Sky Tower serves multiple purposes, housing a range of attractions within its sleek design.

Thrill-seekers and those with a head for heights can experience the SkyJump, a controlled base jump from the tower. At the same time, the SkyWalk offers a daring stroll around an outdoor platform. Its observation decks provide breathtaking 360-degree views and complement a rotating restaurant that offers a unique dining experience and superb food.

It’s also worth visiting the tower at night when its illuminations will take your breath away.

10. Bay of Islands

Located on the northeastern coast of New Zealand’s North Island, the Bay of Islands is a stunning maritime region that is both historically significant and visually captivating.

With 144 islands, secluded bays and turquoise waters, this region is a paradise for water activities, sailing and exploring pristine beaches. One of the most notable places to visit is the historic town of Russell, which was New Zealand’s first capital. Additionally, it is worth popping into Waitangi, where the Treaty of Waitangi was signed in 1840.

One thing you will notice about the Bay of Islands is the abundant marine life. Tourists are likely to encounter a variety of dolphins, whales and bird species. The Hole in the Rock, a natural sea arch, is another notable landmark you should see.

9. Cathedral Cove

Over on the Coromandel Peninsula of New Zealand’s North Island, you’ll find the extraordinary Cathedral Cove.

This natural masterpiece is renowned for its breathtaking beauty. It is accessible by foot through the native bush or boat, which showcases stunning coastal vistas. The iconic archway, resembling a cathedral window, frames the pristine white sand beach and turquoise waters, creating a scene of serene perfection. However, as it is a popular spot for photographers and nature lovers, sometimes that serenity gets tested!.

Cathedral Cove is surrounded by marine-rich waters and is also part of the Te Whanganui-A-Hei Marine Reserve. If you arrive early, you can explore the sea caves, snorkel amidst colourful marine life, or relax with fewer people around.

8. Abel Tasman National Park

At the very northern tip of New Zealand’s South Island resides Abel Tasman National Park. A stunning coastal haven, it is renowned for its golden beaches, crystal-clear waters and lush native forests.

Established in 1942, it is the country’s smallest national park . Still, it packs a knockout punch with its stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife. The Abel Tasman Coast Track, one of New Zealand’s Great Walks, meanders along the coastline, offering breathtaking views of secluded coves and granite cliffs.

The park also houses several islands, including the Adele and Fisherman Islands, which provide plenty of kayaking, snorkeling, and wildlife observation opportunities. If you visit them, you will also see fur seals, dolphins, and several bird species in their natural habitat.

7. Napier Art Deco Architecture

For all its natural beauty, New Zealand also has some eye-catching architecture. Some of the best examples can be found at Napier , on the North Island.

It boasts a unique and well-preserved collection of Art Deco architecture, resulting from the city’s rebuilding after a devastating earthquake in 1931. This architectural style, characterized by geometric shapes, bold colors, and intricate details, imparts a distinctive charm to Napier’s cityscape.

Prominent examples include the National Tobacco Company Building, featuring zigzag motifs and decorative reliefs, and the Daily Telegraph Building, known for its symmetrical design and ornate detailing.

Elsewhere, the Municipal Theatre showcases iconic stepped patterns and intricate façade ornamentation. At the same time, The Criterion Hotel and the ASB Bank are also notable for their streamlined forms and geometric embellishments. Take a walk around the city to appreciate them from different angles.

6. Whale Watching in Kaikoura

There are several excellent spots for whale-watching in New Zealand. However, Kaikoura on the South Island is one of the more renowned destinations in which to observe these fabulous creatures.

Set against the backdrop of the majestic Kaikoura Ranges, this deep ocean trench located just offshore creates an ideal habitat for various marine life species. Subsequently, it is one of the best places in the world to witness these creatures frolicking in their natural habitat.

Tourists have the opportunity to witness the mighty sperm whales, the largest toothed whales on the planet and other species like humpback whales, orcas, and dusky dolphins. Boat tours and scenic flights provide excellent yet markedly different ways to see these marine giants at various times of the day.

5. Fox or Franz Josef Glaciers

New Zealand has its fair share of awe-inspiring natural wonders. But few can compare with the Fox and Franz Josef Glaciers.

Nestled within the Westland Tai Poutini National Park on New Zealand’s South Island, these natural wonders descend from the Southern Alps to near sea level. They offer a striking contrast of ice against lush rainforests, which creates a captivating landscape to paint, draw or photograph.

As the glaciers are among the most accessible in the world, those who want to explore them can embark on guided hikes or ice-climbing expeditions. Alternatively, scenic helicopter flights provide stunning views of the icy crevasses and blue-hued ice formations from above.

You’ll need to wrap up warm when exploring the glaciers, even in summer. But the chance to get up close to them should not be missed.

4. Wai-o-tapu

Wai-O-Tapu is a geothermal wonderland about 27 km to the south of Rotorua on the North Island of New Zealand. Its name means ‘Sacred Waters’ in the Maori language, reflecting the area’s cultural significance.

The park boasts diverse geothermal features. They include the famous Champagne Pool with its colourful mineral deposits, the Lady Knox Geyser that erupts daily, and the Devil’s Bath with its striking green hues.

You’ll be able to see them close up via well-maintained walking trails that wind through bubbling mud pools, steaming fumaroles and unique geothermal formations.

Overall, the area’s dynamic geothermal activity creates an incredible sensory experience. The distinct smell of sulfur and the mesmerizing visual spectacle of the thermal features will surely captivate you.

3. Hobbiton Movie Set

If you are a fan of the epic high-fantasy genre of films, you’ll want to visit The Hobbiton Movie Set. Situated near Matamata on New Zealand’s North Island, this captivating tourist attraction brings the enchanting world of J.R.R. Tolkien’s Middle-earth to life.

Constructed specifically for filming the ‘The Lord of the Rings’ and ‘The Hobbit’ film trilogies, this meticulously crafted set sits amid rolling green hills and lush farmland.

Guided tours lead you through the quirky Hobbit holes, the Green Dragon Inn, and other iconic structures that make up the Shire. As you explore the set, you will notice the extraordinary attention to detail, with vibrant gardens, rustic fences and meandering pathways that create an immersive experience.

Overall, it is a must-visit experience for those who love either movie franchise.

2. Tongariro Alpine Crossing

The Tongariro Alpine Crossing, located in the center of the North Island, is heralded as one of the world’s most spectacular day hikes.

This iconic trail traverses the otherworldly volcanic landscapes of Tongariro National Park. It encompasses diverse terrains, including emerald lakes, steaming vents, ancient lava flows and the panoramic vistas of Mount Ngauruhoe. You might recognize the latter as Mount Doom from ‘The Lord of the Rings’ trilogy.

The challenging yet rewarding trek leads hikers through the South Crater and the Red Crater, showcasing the park’s geothermal activity. During the descent, you’ll see the serene Ketetahi Hot Springs, which ends near Lake Rotoaira.

Just be aware the weather is ever-changing here, and it is not uncommon to experience four seasons in a day. So it is advisable to wear layers and bring a rucksack with you.

1. Milford Sound

Arguably, New Zealand’s premier attraction is the magnificent Milford Sound .

This breathtaking fjord, famous for its stunning natural beauty, resides on the South Island. It was formed by ancient glaciers and is characterized by towering granite peaks, cascading waterfalls and crystal-clear azure waters. One of the most iconic landmarks, Mitre Peak, rises dramatically from the water’s edge, creating a spectacular sight to behold.

The best way to experience the sheer majesty of the Milford Sound is to take scenic boat cruises along the fjord. Doing so will provide close-up views of the majestic cliffs and wildlife – including seals, dolphins and penguins.

The Sound is notable for its ethereal ambience, enhanced by the sheer scale of the surrounding mountains, often covered in mist and rain.

Map of Tourist Attractions in New Zealand

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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.

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The 22 best things to do in New Zealand

Heading to the land of the long white cloud? Lucky you! Check out our list of the very best things to do in New Zealand.

The best things to do in New Zealand are incredibly diverse; the country is often associated with the All Blacks, lamb and Hobbits, but there’s so much more to this South Pacific paradise. Aotearoa (as it’s known in the Māori language) offers strong Māori and Pacific Island culture, glorious natural beauty and endless ways to take your adrenaline levels from 0 to 100 in under 30 seconds. Mother Nature really shows her swagger here with multicoloured geothermal terrain, majestic mountain ranges, gobsmacking glaciers, breathtaking beaches and picturesque lakes of every hue. But don’t think that means a lack of urban fun; despite being the last populated country before Antarctica, New Zealand is no cultural backwater; it has a culinary, art, theatre, wine and craft beer scene to rival much bigger countries.

Done something on this list and loved it? Share it with the hashtag #TimeOutDoList and tag @TimeOutEverywhere.

Find out more about  how Time Out selects the very best things to do all over the world .

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Best things to do in New Zealand

1.  Be mesmerised by blue and emerald lakes from the top of a volcano

If you don’t have time for one of New Zealand’s famous multi-day walks, the Tongariro Crossing (a UNESCO dual World Heritage area) offers an incredible range of New Zealand’s finest scenery in just eight hours. You’ll experience everything from red craters, active volcanoes, mountain springs, lava flows frozen in time, to stunning blue and emerald lakes. Lord of the Rings fans will geek out at the sight of Mount Doom of Mordor up close.

2.  Get on, and under, one of the world’s most beautiful fjords

With its dramatic peaks, tumbling waterfalls and sheer rock faces that seemingly grow directly out of its dark blue waters, Milford Sound is one of the key reasons people visit New Zealand. Take a boat to the floating underwater observatory and descend 10 metres below sea level to check out the marine life without getting even slightly wet.

3.  Soak in hot pools after glacier-gazing

The Franz Josef Glacier is 11 kilometres of magnificent blue-tinged sparkling ice, and if you can’t afford the helicopter ride to get up close and personal with its crevasses and icefalls, take the Valley Walk to view the face of this slow moving frozen giant. Some guided walks include a relaxing soak in the Glacier Hot pools afterwards.

4.  Do a craft beer and satay bar hop in Wellington

Cuba Street in Wellington has always been the capital of cool, but now previously-out-of-favour Ghuznee Street is making noises too with the latest craft beer breweries and bars bringing the fun. What makes this even more delicious is Wellington’s proliferation of good Malaysian joints in the same area. Great local IPAs, stouts, sours and lagers interspersed with satay and roti canai – does it get any better?

5.  Drink like a hobbit in Matamata

The Lord of the Rings trilogy propelled New Zealand’s natural beauty onto the world stage – and a trip to Matamata allows you to get to the heart of Hobbiton. Peter Jackson’s film set of The Shire has been preserved for tourists, so if you’re a fan you won’t want to miss the opportunity to get some selfies next to Bag End, then sink an amber or English ale, Sackville Cider or Frogmorton Ginger Beer at the Green Dragon Inn.

6.  Explore Dunedin’s outdoor works of art

Dunedin’s edgy, arty feel is especially evident in its street art project. In unexpected places, amidst heritage buildings, offices and sneaky side alleys, 30 modern works of art (some three or four storeys high) by well-known international artists have popped up. Make like a kid and download the map from the official website for an outdoor art treasure hunt. Pop in to Southern Johnnie’s Kitchen, Good Good Burgers, Precinct Food or Vogel Street Kitchen for sustenance on the way.

7.  Sail a tall ship around the Bay of Islands

The Bay of Islands area is known for clear deep waters, postcard perfect beaches and abundant marine life, and the region’s gorgeous weather and cute dolphins make it a very popular spot. But don’t just see it by road or ferry – go all-out with a trip on a working tall ship, the R Tucker Thompson. A lunchtime swim, island stopover, barbecue lunch and chances to take the helm or climb the rigging are all part of the fun.

8.  Drink wine on an island located 35 minutes from Auckland’s city centre

Waiheke Island is a short ferry trip from downtown Auckland, and its unique microclimate means there are more than 30 excellent vineyards to explore. One minute you’re in the heart of the country’s largest commercial centre and the next you’re lying on a white sand beach swimming in clear waters working out whether it will be a pinot or chardonnay at the next winery stop. Magic.

9.  Encounter some of the best scenery in the South Island without breaking a sweat

Let someone else do the driving so you can sit in a comfortable train carriage, drink coffee, look out the window and sigh and gasp at the almost-too-pretty-to-be-real scenery. The TranzAlpine goes from Christchurch to Greymouth past vast plains with braided rivers, dramatic gorges, forests and snow-capped mountain ranges. The outdoor platforms are ideal for snapping photos of what has been named one of the best train journeys in the world.

10.  Take a crash course in Kiwi culture at New Zealand’s most vibrant museum

Everything you need to know about New Zealand is in Te Papa, in Wellington. Forget the dusty dry museums of your youth; Te Papa has everything from giant acrylic elephants suspended from the ceiling to fascinating exhibitions on Māori culture, wildlife, geology, immigration and pop culture. If you only do one indoor activity in New Zealand, this should be it; a terrific summary of what has shaped the country and people you see today.

11.  Get into hot water in the Coromandel

The Coromandel Peninsula is known for its stunning beaches, especially Cathedral Cove: an iconic stretch of golden sand famous for its rock arch and sentinel. Nearby Hot Water Beach provides a unique experience where natural hot springs bubble through the sand two hours each side of high tide. Dig yourself a hole and soak in your self-made jacuzzi.

12.  Cycle for your sav in Blenheim

Rather than being driven from vineyard to vineyard, get on yer bike! A guided cycling tour is a truly charming way to experience the varied vines and cellar doors of the Marlborough wine region. The best bit? Another guide will come and pick you all up at the end so you don’t have to try and swerve your way back to base.

13.  See the largest carnivores on the planet in their natural habitat

Pretty Kaikoura is the place to spot enormous sperm whales, dolphins and albatrosses all with the majestic scenery of the Southern Alps as a backdrop. You may also see orcas if you’re there from December to March, and humpback whales in June and July.  After your boat, plane or helicopter ride, seek out a crayfish meal at a local restaurant; this classy crustacean is Kaikoura’s pride and joy.

14.  Sip a cocktail in a bygone era in Napier

A cocktail at Emporium Lounge in Napier is the perfect way to celebrate being in New Zealand’s art deco capital. After a huge earthquake and subsequent fires destroyed most of the commercial centre in 1931, the city was rebuilt in the style of the time and is now full of elegant buildings with stylish art deco façades. A great way to pretend you’re far classier than you are, even just for an hour.

15.  Brave the highest waterfall climb in the world

Wanaka is ideal for those seeking the breathtaking beauty of Queenstown but on a slightly smaller and less crowded scale. Hikes, skiing and dining out are favoured activities but now you can sidle up alongside waterfalls too, ascending easily on rungs. For families with kids over 12 (and the less experienced), Wild Wire has an easy one hour climb but the highest goes all the way to the top of Twin Falls for serious thrills and a helicopter descent.

16.  See the Southern Hemisphere’s largest active geyser

Te Puia in Rotorua is the home of Pohutu, New Zealand’s largest geyser – but that’s not the only impressive sight in Te Whakarewarewa. There are mud pools and a raft of other bubbling, boiling, steaming thermal activities too. Don’t miss the traditional Maori village and the New Zealand Māori Arts and Crafts Institute for flax weaving and bone carving. You can even book in for a traditional tattoo at the new studio.

17.  Get your powder and pinot fix in Queenstown

If you’re going skiing in New Zealand, Queenstown  is one of the best places with the choice of four fields. When your weary muscles can ski or board no more, there’s plenty of superb bars like Yonder, 1789 Jazz Lounge, The Bunker and Barmuda for some après ski action. Queenstown is definitely New Zealand’s adventure capital, so if bungy jumping, jet boating, skydiving or any other mad adrenaline activities are on your list, tick those babies off here.

18.  Eat like a local in Auckland

Many Auckland hotels are centrally located but some local favourite foodie spots are just outside the CBD. Ponsonby and K Road have some terrific joints like Ponsonby Central , Gemmayze Street , Apero , Azabu , Coco’s Cantina , Orphan’s Kitchen , Satya Chai Lounge and Sidart . And just slightly further out, Dominion Road and Sandringham are outstanding for real-deal Asian food. If you do need to stay central, the Federal Street and Britomart areas are fantastic (don’t miss the city’s best ice cream at Giapo ).

19.  Have a bacon sandwich and coffee at one of New Zealand's favourite Farmers Markets

Hawke’s Bay is known for its excellent food, and even more excellent wine, so what better way explore that magnificent produce than at the fabulous weekly farmers market in Hastings? If the night before has involved a few too many local vintages, a good strong cup of Hawthorne’s locally roasted coffee, a bacon sarnie from Holly’s Bacon and some take-home deli delights will make everything wonderful.

20.  Check out your reflection in one of New Zealand’s most mind bending buildings

The Len Lye Centre in the Govett-Brewster Art Gallery in New Plymouth is a magnificent feat of reflective architecture, the likes of which you won’t find elsewhere. Inside, enter the mind of one of the twentieth century's most original artists and spill out into one of the locals’ favourite eateries in the West End Precinct afterwards. On a beautiful day, stroll the coastal walkway, past Lye’s outdoor Wind Wand sculpture. Further on, views of Mt Taranaki will leave you breathless.

21.  Get a glow on in the Bay of Plenty

The Bay of Plenty is famous for many things: surfing, gorgeous beaches, hot pools. But not everyone knows there’s a crew who’ll take you kayaking on a lake to enjoy the starry night sky followed by a truly magical paddle in a passage where the walls are lined with tens of thousands of twinkly glowworms. There’s even wine and snacks as part of the deal – perfect evening, really.

22.  Take a tram ride in Christchurch

Tourist trams are usually the domain of the excited-three-year-old brigade, but in Christchurch it’s a great way to orientate yourself in a city that’s partway through a post-quake rebuild. Some stops, like the former Cathedral and the beautiful new Earthquake Memorial, are sad reminders of the 185 lives lost in February 2011; others like New Regent Street, The Terraces or Little High Eatery show the new vibrant face of this city filled with art, shopping, cafés, bars and riverside restaurants.

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The Top 20 Things to Do in New Zealand

With beaches, mountains, rivers, forests, Indigenous and colonial culture and history, and diverse wildlife and birds, New Zealand offers a range of experiences to suit all interests. But despite its deceptively small size, it can be difficult for travelers to know where to focus their attention first. The North and the South Islands are very different, and seeing the whole country on one trip is just not possible. To help you plan your dream trip to Aotearoa, we're recommending the best of the best: Here are the top 20 things to put at the top of your New Zealand bucket list.

Complete a "Great Walk"

TripSavvy / Taylor McIntyre

Hiking (or tramping, as New Zealanders call it) is a must-do activity while traveling in the country, and there are short and long trails to suit (almost) every fitness level and interest. Travelers who want a multi-day adventure in the wild, with decent hut accommodation and well-maintained trails, should consider one of the Department of Conservation's 10 Great Walks .

These hikes take you through some of the most beautiful landscapes in New Zealand, from beaches to snow-capped mountains, and have well-formed tracks that are easy to follow. The Great Walks are very popular with locals and tourists, so it's essential to book a spot in the huts—where you'll rest along the way—in advance. The 10 Great Walks are:

• Lake Waikaremoana , East Coast, North Island, 3–4 days
• Tongariro Northern Circuit , Central North Island, 3–4 days
• Whanganui Journey , Whanganui/Manawatu, North Island, 3–5 days (note that this is not actually a walk but a journey by kayak or canoe)
• Abel Tasman Coast Track, Abel Tasman National Park , South Island, 3–5 days
• Heaphy Track, Kahurangi National Park , South Island, 4–6 days
• Paparoa Track and Pike 29 Memorial Track , Paparoa National Park, South Island, 3 days one-way
• Routeburn Track , Fiordland, South Island, 2–4 days
• Kepler Track , Fiordland, 3–4 days
• Milford Track , Fiordland, 4 days
• Rakiura Track, Rakiura Stewart Island , 3 days

Bathe in a Thermal Pool

Antonius Leeggangers / Getty Images

New Zealand is a geothermally active country, which means that natural hot springs can be found all over the place. Wherever you travel, you won't be too far from a hot spring, but the greatest concentration can be found around Rotorua and Taupo , in central North Island, as well as Hanmer Springs in Canterbury, South Island. Some are very basic and are simply hot water emerging from the ground, whereas others offer spa and fun pool experiences.

Taste Sauvignon Blanc in Marlborough

Jenny Sourris / EyeEm / Getty Images

In the wine world, New Zealand is best known for its sauvignon blanc, a grape variety grown largely in the country's largest wine-producing region: Marlborough, located at the top of South Island. However, Marlborough isn't the only destination for wine enthusiasts in New Zealand, as various microclimates across the country allow different regions to specialize in different wines. Hawke's Bay, Otago, Auckland (especially Waiheke Island ), and Wairarapa are also well-known for their delicious wines, and travelers can drop into many of these areas' wineries for a tasting or even a meal.

Learn About New Zealand History at Waitangi

Holger Leue / Getty Images

Waitangi is a small place in the Bay of Islands with enormous significance. It is where, in 1840, representatives of the British Crown signed an agreement with Maori chiefs, ceding sovereignty of what is now New Zealand. The agreement, the Treaty of Waitangi (Te Tiriti o Waitangi), is seen as the founding document of modern New Zealand. At the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, visitors can see a replica of the Treaty, visit the house where it was signed, step inside the elaborately decorated marae (Maori meeting house), and enjoy views over the water to Paihia and Russell.

See the Meeting of Oceans at Cape Reinga

chrisp0 / Getty Images

Cape Reinga (Te Rerenga Wairua) is the northernmost point of the North Island. From the (decommissioned) lighthouse at the end, you'll get to see the Tasman Sea and Pacific Ocean meet. It's a spiritually important place to local Maori, too, who believe that the spirits of the recently dead depart New Zealand through an 800-year-old pohutukawa tree here.

The cape can be visited on a day trip from the Bay of Islands or Kaitaia, but there are also many walking trails, isolated white sand beaches, and campsites that make it worth staying a bit longer.

Immerse Yourself in Movie-Making History

TripSavvy / Alisha McDarris

To Tolkien fans around the world, New Zealand is best known as the place where the "Lord of the Rings" and "Hobbit" trilogies were filmed. While many landscapes were made with CGI, and sets have long been dismantled, there are a number of filming locations you can still visit , either on your own or with a guided tour. In the North Island, the movie set of Hobbiton (i.e. The Shire, at Matamata near Hamilton ), Tongariro National Park (the backdrop to Modor), and Weta Studios in Wellington are the easiest options. In the South Island, there are numerous natural landscapes used in the films, from Pelorus Bridge in the Marlborough Sounds to the Mararoa River in Southland.

Go Dolphin Watching

Up to 13 dolphin species have been sighted in the waters of New Zealand, including rare ones that only live here. These playful creatures can quite often be seen from New Zealand's beaches, and boat tours—even if they don't sell themselves as dolphin-watching tours—will often encounter a pod. Great places to spot dolphins in New Zealand include the Bay of Islands, Tauranga , the Marlborough Sounds, Kaikoura , Banks Peninsula, the Otago Peninsula, and Rakiura Stewart Island.

Enjoy the Views While Paragliding

With a variety of beautiful landscapes, it makes sense to enjoy views of New Zealand from the air. Paragliding is a fun (and relatively safe) activity in which you soar through the skies, suspended by an inflatable wing (similar to a parachute) and kept aloft by warm currents of air (called thermals). Beginners to the sport do tandem flights with a guide. Lots of places around New Zealand offer paragliding flights; we recommend Queenstown for impressive views of the Southern Alps mountains, and the Nelson /Motueka area to see the gorgeous coastline of the Abel Tasman National Park from a different angle.

Hike the Fox and Franz Josef Glaciers

Angelina Pilarnos / TripSavvy

At the bottom of the West Coast region of the South Island are the Fox and  Franz Josef Glaciers . These rivers of ice start high in the Southern Alps and reach down to almost sea level. While summer temperatures near the glaciers may be warm, and the vegetation nearby is temperate and coastal, Fox and Franz Josef themselves remain frozen. You can see them from a distance or get up-close on guided hikes and scenic heli-tours, some of which land high up on the glaciers. Aim to stay in the small village of Franz Josef, near the glacier of the same name, as there is a range of accommodation available and a thermal hot pool.

Climb the World's Steepest Street in Dunedin

Dunedin is the second largest city on the South Island and an attractive place for many reasons. One of the quirkiest things you can do here is visit Baldwin Street, which the Guinness World Records has officially named the steepest street in the world. Located in the North East Valley, it would just be a regular residential street except for the fact that it's really, really steep.

Why is it so steep? That's because of Dunedin's unique colonial history. Much of the city was planned on paper from London, with cartographers and town planners drawing the lines of streets onto a map of the land, without factoring in just how hilly of a city Dunedin is.

If you visit Baldwin Street, don't bother taking your car up it. There's a dead end at the top, and in the winter the streets of Dunedin can be treacherously slippery with ice.

Soak Up the Sun on a White Sand Beach

TripSavvy / Maria Ligaya

Clean and often quiet, New Zealand's beaches are among the best in the world. Beaches on the western coast of both islands are commonly comprised of black sand and have strong currents, while the eastern coasts have white or golden sand and are generally safer for swimming. Popular beach destinations include the Bay of Islands, Bream Bay, Piha and West Auckland, Coromandel Peninsula , and the Abel Tasman National Park. But if you don't mind a cold dip, or are just wanting a walk, the beaches of Otago, Southland (especially the Catlins ), and Rakiura Stewart Island are lovely, too.

Kayak in the Marlborough Sounds

Mi-chi Huang / Getty Images

The Marlborough Sounds are a large area of drowned river valleys at the top of the South Island. Although the sounds have around 1,100 miles of coastline, very few people live here, making it a peaceful and remote place to explore. The 44-mile Queen Charlotte Track is one of the most popular long-distance hikes in the country, but it can get quite crowded during peak tourist season. A great alternative is to explore the Marlborough Sounds by kayak. The waters are calm and there are an almost endless number of sheltered bays around the four sounds: Queen Charlotte, Pelorus, Mahau, and Kenepuru.

Cruise in the Fiordland National Park

Fiordland National Park is the largest national park in New Zealand, and contains some of the country's best-loved experiences and attractions, including three Great Walks and Milford Sound. The waterways of Fiordland are ideally explored by kayak or guided cruise, but as the park is notoriously rainy, be prepared to get wet. On Milford Sound, the sight of Mitre Peak rising directly out of the water is impressive, while cruises on Doubtful Sound are less busy but just as attractive.

Take a Road Trip to Aoraki Mount Cook

At 12,316 feet, Aoraki Mount Cook is New Zealand's highest mountain. Though its height isn't anywhere near that of, say, Mount Everest (29,032 feet), what is especially impressive about Aoraki is that its base is at a much lower elevation than many other enormously high mountains. When looking up at it from near the bottom, it feels as though it could be the highest mountain in the world.

Located in Aoraki Mount Cook National Park in central South Island, the mountain takes a bit of effort to get to—but the road trip from Christchurch (as many people approach it) offers some seriously impressive views. The roads here are generally well maintained, and travel along the western side of Lake Pukaki on the way to tiny Mount Cook Village .

Stargaze in the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve

Kathryn Diehm / Getty Images

New Zealand, particularly the South Island, is sparsely populated, so in many places there's very little light pollution spoiling the views of the stars in the night sky. Quite a lot can be seen on a clear night from the average New Zealand small town , but for a spectacular stargazing experience , spend a few days at the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve in central South Island, near Aoraki Mount Cook. It's the largest Dark Sky Reserve in the world, so there are many good places to stargaze here, including the villages of Mount Cook, Twizel, and Tekapo. Mt. John's Observatory and Cowan's Observatory in Tekapo offer guided tour experiences, while at Tekapo Springs , you can combine two must-dos from this list: hot spring bathing and stargazing!

Ride a Train (Almost) the Whole Length of the North Island

Jochen Schlenker / robertharding / Getty Images

As New Zealand's public transportation system is not very extensive, driving is a popular way of getting around the country—but if you need to travel the length of the North Island in a relatively short time, taking the Northern Explorer train is a great way to go. Leaving from Wellington early in the morning, it arrives in Auckland about 11 hours later (or vice versa). It travels the 423 miles along the Kapiti Coast, past Tongariro National Park, and through dramatic King Country before reaching the pasture land of the Waikato region.

Birdwatch in an Eco-Sanctuary

New Zealand doesn't have very many native mammals (just one, in fact: a flightless bat), but it makes up for that in its variety of bird life. Many native New Zealand birds are flightless (or unable to fly very far) because they evolved when there were no natural predators in the country. Unfortunately, when humans arrived here (first from the Pacific Islands and then from Europe), they introduced predators like rats, stoats, and cats.

Nowadays, many endemic New Zealand birds are severely endangered or vulnerable, but great efforts are being made around the country to revive populations. Birds such as pukeko, kea, and penguins can be spotted in the wild (with a bit of planning), while others, like kiwi or takahe, are better seen in one of New Zealand's dedicated nature reserves . These are different from national parks in that they can be found throughout the country, and are sometimes surprisingly close to urban centers (such as Zealandia in Wellington or the Brook Waimarama Sanctuary in Nelson).

Join a Cruise to the Remote Subantarctic Islands

Not your average New Zealand travel adventure, a trip to the Subantarctic Islands is not for the weak of stomach (seasickness is almost guaranteed), but bird and nature lovers are in for a treat. One of New Zealand's three UNESCO World Heritage Sites , the Subantarctic Islands are five island groups in the Southern Ocean southeast of New Zealand, between the South Island and Antarctica. As the name suggests, a journey here is rather cold, and can only be made in summer, but the variety of bird life and wildflowers on and around the islands makes up for any discomfort.

It's not easy to get to the Subantarctic Islands and they're highly protected, but a small number of scientific expeditions and small-group cruises make the trip down to these remote islands every year.

Get an Adrenaline Rush While Whitewater Rafting

Matthew Micah Wright / Getty Images

New Zealand is often considered one of the greatest whitewater rafting destinations in the world because of its clean rivers with fun rapids and a variety of beautiful landscapes to enjoy—especially those that cannot easily be accessed any other way, such as remote canyons and jungle-enshrouded gorges. Rafting can be enjoyed on both islands, particularly around Rotorua/Taupo, Murchison, and Queenstown; you can find trips suitable for both beginners and experts, ranging from a couple of hours to several days.

Tour Hawke's Bay for Some of the Finest Examples of Art Deco Architecture

Jim Henderson (Different Perspective) / Getty Images

Although New Zealand is better known for its natural attractions than its manufactured ones, the architecture in the towns of Napier , Hastings, and Havelock North in the Hawke's Bay region are an exception. In 1931, a magnitude 7.9 earthquake devastated towns in Hawke's Bay, flattening many of the existing buildings. In the years that followed, buildings were reconstructed in the architectural style fashionable at the time: Art Deco. Today, Napier considers itself to be the Art Deco Capital of the World, rivaling much bigger cities like Miami, New York, and Mumbai with its architectural treasures. Art and design enthusiasts can sign up for a guided tour with the Art Deco Trust , or plan a visit around the annual Napier Art Deco Festival .

The 15 Best Places to Visit in New Zealand

The Complete Guide to New Zealand's Great Walks

Learn about New Zealand's UNESCO World Heritage Sites

New Zealand’s Top 6 National Parks

Top 10 Places to Go Hiking in New Zealand

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

How to Go Backpacking in New Zealand

The 10 Most Important Historic Sites in New Zealand

South Island Highlights in New Zealand

New Zealand Is Once Again Open to Visitors—Here's What It's Like to Visit Now

The 12 Best Places to Go Camping in New Zealand

Your Trip to New Zealand: The Complete Guide

The 10 Best Road Trips in New Zealand

The Best 15 Beaches in New Zealand

The Top 10 Cities in New Zealand

The 15 Best Small Towns in New Zealand

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The Five Foot Traveler

Reaching new heights, 47 awe-inspiring places to visit in new zealand.

by Sarah Gallo | Jul 30, 2019 | New Zealand , North Island , South Island | 4 comments

Kia Ora! Did you know that only 5 % of New Zealand is actually populated by people? That the first man to reach the summit of Mt. Everest was a Kiwi? That the term Kiwi originates from the kiwi bird, an important cultural symbol for the indigenous Maori people? Or perhaps you’re a big Lord of the Rings fan and conjure up images of The Shire, Mordor, and Mt. Doom? Let me just say this: whatever you’ve pictured about New Zealand, it is everything and more. While it may only be small in size, there are many unique and picturesque places to visit in New Zealand. 

There’s no denying the fact that New Zealand is my favorite country in the world. It has everything from mountain peaks to volcanoes, beaches, wineries, adventure activities, and SO MUCH MORE! 

How To Get There

New Zealand’s main international airport is in Auckland (on the North Island). There are no direct flights from the United Kingdom, but many nonstop flights from the United States, Australia, Middle East, and East Asia. Air New Zealand is the most popular carrier, as you might imagine. Should you fly Air New Zealand, I definitely recommend binge-watching The Lord of the Rings trilogy using their in-flight entertainment system. If you’re interested in reading about our experience flying Air New Zealand, you can do so here. One thing I can say is that the time flies by when you know so many incredible places to visit in New Zealand are awaiting your arrival!  

There are a few things you should know before your arrival:

• You can clear customs and  immigration via electronic scan if you’re from New Zealand, Australia, USA, or Canada. It is a similar process to that of JFK or other major international airports. 
• New Zealand will ask you many questions in regards to declaration, and if you don’t declare your items, there’s an on-the-spot $400 NZD charge. So what may you have to declare? Medicines, any outside food, nuts or plant-based materials, diving equipment, hiking boots, tents, etc. That’s what we had to declare. First, we had to get cleared at one desk to allow our medications to enter the country, and then we had to go to a different area to get our bags scanned and our tent checked by the biodiversity lab. 5 FT Tip: They will also check your hiking boots, so be sure the soles have been recently cleaned! 
• You can get a SIM card in the airport. Spark and Vodafone are located right next to each other and offer the same deals. My brother used Spark on our first trip and I used Vodafone on my most recent trip and both carriers were equally reliable. 
• Be sure to leave yourselves with far more time than you’d think when arriving in Auckland. It took us two hours from when we landed to when we left the airport, excluding the whole rental car process. 

This page contains affiliate links, meaning that The Five Foot Traveler may receive a small commission when you purchase any flights or accommodations using the links in this article at no extra cost to you. I appreciate your continued support!

How To Get Around 

I can’t stress this enough: rent a car or camper van. You will be doing yourself a serious disservice if you do not. They do drive on the “wrong” side of the road, but it’s actually a great spot to learn because there isn’t much traffic. 

There really is no other way to experience the country in full without having the freedom to explore on your own route and schedule. I tend to use RentalCars when booking car rentals, and recently used JUCY for a 4-person camper van rental . Whether you rent a car or a camper van is up to you and your style of travel. I can honestly say that you will have an incredible time with whichever mode you choose!

As for the length of time for your visit – stay as long as you can! My first trip was a month-long and covered both Islands, while my second trip was 12-days long and was focused just on the South Island. Both times I had wished I’d planned to stay longer!

Have a look at the following 47 awe-inspiring places to visit in New Zealand, and decide for yourself what you’d like to see as you plan your epic journey….

North Island

1. auckland.

Did you know that more people live in Auckland than in the rest of the country combined? In a country as beautiful as New Zealand, make your way to One Tree Hill while in Auckland, and then go immerse yourself in nature. One Tree Hill is an important memorial place for both the Maori and other Kiwis. The tree itself was attacked with a chainsaw by a Maori activist in 1994, and again in 1999. Sadly, it eventually had to be cut down, and now just a memorial to John Logan Campbell, one of Auckland's founding fathers, sits alone atop the hill. That said, I definitely recommend driving up there, taking in the views, and listening to U2's song One Tree Hill while up there (because, yes, I totally did that myself). 

Where to Sleep? Search all accommodations in Auckland here or get $55 off your AirBnB using my code here . 

2. Tuateawa

Forget overcoming jet lag in Auckland, make your way to Waikawau where you can stay in your very own luxury tree house thanks to Canopy Camping Escapes. There are some beautiful, empty beaches and viewpoints to check out in the area. Be sure not to miss Little Bay or Waikawau Bay. 

Where to Sleep? Check out Canopy Camping Escapes!

3. Lonely Bay

A true gem in the Coromandel Peninsula of which few tourists know. Enjoy the secluded, pristine, and utterly untouched beach. 

Where to Sleep? Search all accommodations near Lonely Bay here or get $55 off your AirBnB using my code here . 

4. Purangi Winery

Perfectly situated between Lonely Bay and Cathedral Cove , this is a must-lunch spot. Not only are the grounds immaculate, but the pizza is some of the best I’ve ever had and you’ll even get free tastings of incredibly tasty liquors. I highly recommend the local mussel pizza and passionfruit liquor… yum! 

Where to Sleep? Search all accommodations near Purangi Winery here or get $55 off your AirBnB using my code here . 

5. Cathedral Cove

Known for the filming location of Narnia, Cathedral Cove is a hot spot on the Coromandel Peninsula. When planning your day, it’s important to note that it’s, at minimum, a 45 minute walk each way from the parking lot so be sure to factor in that time. Cathedral Cove is obviously a popular swimming beach and a great place to spend a few hours – just be sure to bring plenty of food and drink! 

Where to Sleep? Search all accommodations near Cathedral Cove here or get $55 off your AirBnB using my code here . 

6. Hot Water Beach

This beach got its name due to the thermal springs beneath the sand. Most people on the beach had a shovel in hand and were trying to dig holes deep enough to reach the thermal springs! It was quite amusing, and many seemed to have success, so see if you can rent a shovel from your accommodation. 

Where to Sleep? Search all accommodations near Hot Water Beach here or get $55 off your AirBnB using my code here . 

Hot Water Beach – Places to Visit in New Zealand

Thames is quite the historical town! In fact, it has some of the oldest history in New Zealand. Thames has the longest single shopping strip in New Zealand, at over a mile long! Thames has the last pre-1900 factory facade in the southern hemisphere. Thames lost 249 men in World War I. Most of New Zealand lost 1/3-1/2 of their working-aged men in World War I, causing the women to step up. Thames is home to the first stock exchange, located on Script Corner. Thames is only 500 meters from bush clad mountains and the ocean, making it a long, narrow town. Most people use Thames as a base for hiking the Pinnacles in the Kauaeranga Valley. 

Where to Sleep? Search all accommodations in Thames here or get $55 off your AirBnB using my code here . 

8. Hobbiton

As I’m sure you know, The Lord of the Rings Trilogy was filmed in New Zealand. Peter Jackson decided that the lush green pastures of this particular farm – which became Hobbiton – matched Tolkien’s description of The Shire perfectly. At first I wasn’t sure that I wanted to visit, as I’m not a die-hard Lord of the Rings fan, but honestly… the place is stunning. It is well worth the visit whether you’re a hardcore fan or have never even seen the movies. There are 44 Hobbit Holes and 300 Hobbits on set. The Shire itself seems 100% real, and yet it’s all a manifestation of Tolkien’s untouchable imagination. 

Where to Sleep? Search all accommodations near Hobbiton here or get $55 off your AirBnB using my code here . 

Base yourself in this smelly sulfuric town to explore various lakes, mountains, volcanoes, and forests. It is best known for its geothermal activity, geysers, and hot mud pools. On the way from Hobbiton, it’s worth checking out the Redwood Forest. The first five minutes of the hike are the coolest, so you can decide if you want to do the hour long trail or not. 

Where to Sleep? Search all accommodations in Rotorua here or get $55 off your AirBnB using my code here . 

10. Mt. Tarawera

Four minor eruptions and one big eruption, left New Zealand under 30 meters of ash in 1886. Mt. Tarawera and the surrounding lakes are tribal land, so you must go with a tour company. Be prepared for all kinds of temperature changes, even if it’s nice in town. Definitely being a hat and windbreaker!

Where to Sleep? Search all accommodations near Mt. Tarawera here or get $55 off your AirBnB using my code here . 

11. Kaituna River

If you’ve ever wanted to raft the highest commercial waterfall, you’ll have the opportunity to do so on the Kaituna River! The river is owned by the Maori and home to the largest freshwater eels in the world. To put it briefly and simply, the Kaituna River is considered a sacred place to the Maori people because a long time ago there were wars over land; the Warriors that died in battle were laid to rest in the river. The eels would eat the flesh of the bodies, and then the people would collect their bones, wrap them up, and put them in caves surrounding the Kaituna River. This is certainly an experience for the adrenaline-seekers reading this!

Where to Sleep? Search all accommodations near the Kaituna River here or get $55 off your AirBnB using my code here . 

12. Waimangu Volcanic Valley

Waimangu is the only hydrothermal system in the world that can be pinned down to an exact date, June 10, 1886, when a violent volcanic eruption pierced the country. While the views are quite nice, there are two impressive sights to see in the Valley: Frying Pan Lake and the Inferno Crater. Read more about them here.  

Where to Sleep? Search all accommodations near the Waimangu Volcanic Valley here or get $55 off your AirBnB using my code here . 

Taupo is located on the banks of Lake Taupo, New Zealand’s largest lake. Like Rotorua, it’s known for its geothermal activities and hot springs, but lacks the strong sulfur smell. If you’re looking for some adventure, I highly recommend the extreme swing and bungy at Taupo Bungy. It’s important to note that you must be 45 kgs (99 lbs) in order to jump!

Where to Sleep? Search all accommodations in Taupo here or get $55 off your AirBnB using my code here . 

14. Waitomo

If you’ve ever wanted to do a 100 m abseil into a dark abyss to see glow worms, then look no further than Waitomo. In Waitomo it’s worth joining a tour to Mangapu Caves, also known as “The Lost World.” There are harnesses, carabiners, and a bit of hiking involved before you reach the entrance to the cave. Read about our epic experience here.  

Where to Sleep? Search all accommodations in Waitomo here or get $55 off your AirBnB using my code here . 

15. The Three Sisters

This would be just a quick pitstop, but if you’re looking to check out a black sand beach in New Zealand, this would be it!

Where to Sleep? Search all accommodations near the Three Sisters here or get $55 off your AirBnB using my code here . 

16. Wai-iti Beach

Wai-iti Beach is located thirty minutes north of New Plymouth. There were very few people when we visited and apparently, if you’re lucky, you can spot penguins (we didn’t). 

Where to Sleep? Search all accommodations near Wai-iti Beach here or get $55 off your AirBnB using my code here . 

17. Mt. Taranaki

The Taranaki Region is a stunner and climbing Mt. Taranaki is must. Rather than spending our entire day hiking the Pouakai Crossing as we had originally planned, we decided to do a shorter hike to the Pouakai Hut via the Mangorei Track for the famed view of Mt. Taranaki. While there are many, many stairs involved, it was an enjoyable trek that offers great views if the mountain isn’t covered in clouds. If you’re not up for hiking, check out Te Rewa Rewa Bridge for a unique view of Mt. Taranaki, and go to the Dawson Falls Visitor Center to more amazing views of the mountain. 

Where to Sleep? Search all accommodations near Mt. Taranaki here or get $55 off your AirBnB using my code here . 

18. Tongariro National Park

The Tongariro Alpine Crossing, within the National Park, is arguably one of the most popular treks in the world. It also known for the filming location for Mordor and Mt. Doom in The Lord of the Rings . The weather is very unpredictable in this region, so I’d recommend factoring in a few days nearby. Unfortunately, we didn’t know this and hiked with very little visibility. Even without the usually epic views, the Tongariro Alpine Crossing was incredibly fun and well worth it! If you’d like to see us reenact the scene where Sam carries Frodo up Mt. Doom, you can view it here . 

Where to Sleep? Search all accommodations near Tongariro National Park here or get $55 off your AirBnB using my code here . 

19. Meads Wall

Beginning from the Whakapapa Ski Field, you will find the start of a fifteen minute walk to Mead’s Wall. Tread carefully up and over the wall for incredible views of Mt. Doom. When you’re done, head back to the ski field and grab a snack at New Zealand’s highest café!

Where to Sleep? Search all accommodations near Meads Wall here or get $55 off your AirBnB using my code here . 

20. Wellington

Wellington is the southernmost capital in the world. It is the perfect blend of past, present, and future. With beaches that span the surrounding bay and free museums that could entertain every traveler, there is always something to do in the capital no matter the weather. Wellington is a booming city by New Zealand standards, and slightly overwhelming if you’re not keen on city driving. Most importantly, it’s the city where you catch the ferry to the South Island! 

Where to Sleep? Search all accommodations in Wellington here or get $55 off your AirBnB using my code here . 

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South Island

21. kissing gate.

Did you know that kissing gates were once found on the pathways between villages to prevent cows and sheep from wandering? You’ll have to read the story here. If you’re looking for a unique place to relax in nature, with incredible stars overhead, give yourself a day or two to chill out at the Kissing Gate. It’s worth checking out the Mapua Wharf nearby too – an old port that has been renovated into a chic pedestrian area with delicious cafés!

Where to Sleep? Check out Canopy Camping Escapes !

22. Abel Tasman National Park

Abel Tasman National Park has some of the bluest water in New Zealand. I recommend driving to Kaiteriteri and taking the sea shuttle to Medlands Beach. From there, it’s worth going on the four hour hike to Anchorage Beach if you have time. There are some truly stunning views!

Where to Sleep? Search all accommodations near Abel Tasman National Park here or get $55 off your AirBnB using my code here . 

23. Nelson Lakes National Park

Nelson Lakes National Park is not only well known for its lakes, but also for it’s beech forest, mountains, viewpoints, and clear streams. We first stopped at Kerr Bay to look onto the lake from the rocky shores before driving up Mt. Robert Road in St. Arnaud for a lovely overview of the entire lake area below. There are also longer and more strenuous hikes in the area for those who want to get their hearts pumping a bit more. 

Where to Sleep? Search all accommodations near Nelson Lakes National Park here or get $55 off your AirBnB using my code here . 

24. Teorumata Cave

This sea cave was one occupied by travelers from the earliest of days in Paparoa National Park. Hippies used to gather and throw huge parties in this cave. Could you imagine?! The views from the cave, and of the cave itself, are truly beautiful.

Where to Sleep? Search all accommodations near Teorumata Cave here or get $55 off your AirBnB using my code here . 

25. Pancake Rocks & Punakaiki Blowholes

The Pancake Rocks and Punakaiki Blowholes are a key tourist spot on the West Coast. These stacked limestone formations, resembling pancakes, are beautifully juxtaposed against the sea. Amongst these formations you will also find blowholes and surge pools too. You only need to devote a solid thirty minutes to explore the Pancake Rocks area.  

Where to Sleep? Check out The Hexagon at Canopy Camping Escapes!

26. Hokitika Gorge

The Hokitika Gorge is one of those places that really surprised us. It’s a short, easy walk, and the color of the water is just out of this world! If you’re looking for a longer hike in the area, check out Mt. Tuhua, Mt. Brown or Cedar Flats.

Where to Sleep? Search all accommodations in Hokitika here or get $55 off your AirBnB using my code here . 

27. Franz Josef Glacier

Franz Josef Glacier is quite a special stop along the West Coast, as you can go onto the glacier itself with a guided tour, so get those crampons ready! Believe it or not, the Franz Josef Glacier moves about 50 cm per day!

Where to Sleep? Search all accommodations in Franz Josef here or get $55 off your AirBnB using my code here . 

28. Haast Pass

The Haast Pass is the best way to get from the west coast to Wanaka. There are many easy pull-offs and trails that are well worth it. I definitely recommend devoting a day to this drive, and to check out Thunder Creek Falls, Pleasant Flat. Fantail Falls, and Hawea Lake. 

Where to Sleep? Search all accommodations near Haast here or get $55 off your AirBnB using my code here . 

From That Wanaka Tree to Patagonia Ice Cream and Lake Wanaka, I’ve always felt drawn to this town. Both times I’ve visited, it’s been a highlight and I would truly love to spend a week just chilling in Wanaka itself. It’s much quieter than Queenstown, but equally as beautiful. There are numerous trails if you feel like being active, the lakeside if you feel like relaxing, and plenty of delicious little eateries if you feel like indulging. You can even learn how to fly a plane in Wanaka!

Where to Sleep? Search all accommodations in Wanaka here or get $55 off your AirBnB using my code here . 

30. Roy’s Peak

Roy’s Peak is one of my favorite hikes in the world. It’s a steep uphill climb with switchbacks, but it’s clearly marked. I’ve hiked it both mid-day and before sunrise and I highly recommend beginning your hike at 4am to catch sunrise (which was at 7:30am when we climbed). Give yourself about three hours to get up the mountain if you’re in pretty good shape and make sure to bring many layers, even if it feels warm when you leave your hotel. Whether you’re an active hiker or not, I would certainly recommend hiking poles are the decent is rough on the knees. Difficulty aside, the views from Roy’s Peak are simply spectacular and not to be missed! 

Where to Sleep? Search all accommodations near Roy’s Peak here or get $55 off your AirBnB using my code here . 

31. Omarama Clay Cliffs

The Omarama Clay Cliffs are a great stop to break up the drive between Wanaka and Mt. Cook . The Clay Cliffs are tall, orange pinnacles in deep ravines, formed over a million years ago by ancient glaciers. Please note that these are on private land, so you will find a donation box at the gate where you can get out and stroll around the area. 

Where to Sleep? Search all accommodations in Omarama here or get $55 off your AirBnB using my code here . 

32. Lake Pukaki

In order to get to Mt. Cook Village, you have to drive around Lake Pukaki, the largest of the three glacial lakes in the region. The source of Lake Pukaki comes mostly from the Tasman and Hooker Glaciers, giving it an absolutely stunning blue color. Aside from the color, the best part of Lake Pukaki is that it provides you with your first view of Mt. Cook in the distance! It’s also a spectacular spot to watch the sunrise. 

Where to Sleep? Search all accommodations near Lake Pukaki here or get $55 off your AirBnB using my code here . 

33. Tasman Terminal Lake

Just before reaching Mt. Cook Village, you’ll find a right turn off to the Tasman Terminal Lake. It is definitely worth the small detour, no matter what time of day. I’ve now been twice – once mid-day and once at sunset. The lake has been created due to the Tasman Glacier receding, and it’s unique in that the lake is actually full of icebergs! There are two different trail options – one that is pretty flat (the trail to the right) and leaves you at the base of the lake, and one that has a bunch of stairs (the trail to the left), but gives you a great lookout over the lake. I’ve done both trails – and recommend both trails – but if you can only do one, I’d recommend the trail to the left, if you’re physically capable. 

Where to Sleep? Search all accommodations near Tasman Lake here or get $55 off your AirBnB using my code here . 

34. Mount Cook / Aoraki National Park

Mount Cook is, hands down, one of my favorite places in the world. And I don’t say this lightly. Every turn and every angle left me speechless. It is also New Zealand’s highest mountain! I honestly could have spent weeks just exploring the Mount Cook area alone; that said, be sure you give yourself at least three days here to explore. I’d highly highly highly recommend a helicopter flight over Mount Cook , as it was one of my most memorable travel experiences. If you only have time for one hike, let it be the Hooker Valley Trail. The incredible thing about the Hooker Valley Trail is that it’s mostly flat, and a path that just about anyone can walk, and yet it offers some of the most spectacular views that this world has to offer. It takes about 3 hours round trip or so, but if you’re a photographer, definitely factor in longer. Mount Cook/Aoraki National Park are also part of the International Dark Sky Reserve, and if you’re lucky enough to have a clear night, you’ll be able to witness the most gorgeous night sky.  

Where to Sleep? Search all accommodations near Mount Cook here or get $55 off your AirBnB using my code here . 

35. Lake Tekapo

If you’re traveling from Christchurch to Mount Cook, you’ll pass Lake Tekapo about 3 hours in. It’s also only an hour and fifteen minutes from Mt. Cook, so if you’re looking for a beautiful day trip (from an already beautiful region), Lake Tekapo would be a great decision. Grab a book and read by the water, take a dip, enjoy the cute eateries, or just take in the views and you’re bound to have a great time. 

Where to Sleep? Search all accommodations near Lake Tekapo here or get $55 off your AirBnB using my code here . 

36. Arrowtown

Arrowtown is an old gold rush village just outside of Queenstown. They’ve got a super cute heritage main street and it’s perfect for any nature lover. I personally love that Arrowtown is home to the AJ Hackett Kawarau Bungy Bridge Jump and I definitely recommend checking it out when you’re there! 

Where to Sleep? Search all accommodations in Arrowtown here or get $55 off your AirBnB using my code here . 

37. Queenstown

Queenstown is the adventure capital of the world! Not only is it simply stunning, but it’s nestled on the lakeside and surrounded by incredible mountain peaks. This is a wonderful place to base yourself in either summer or winter, depending on if you want to hike or ski. You can do everything in Queenstown from skydiving to bungy jumping to jetboats , and you can even hop in a helicopter for some epic views while you’re at it! If you’re not an adrenaline-seeker like myself, but still want to take in some stunning views, there are plenty of hiking trails in the area as well. You can very easily spend a week in Queenstown and never run out of things to do. 

Where to Sleep? Search all accommodations in Queenstown here or get $55 off your AirBnB using my code here . 

38. Lake Alta

We decided to squeeze in a hike to Lake Alta after departing Queenstown, and it surely didn’t disappoint! Nestled high up in the mountains, drive yourself to the Remarkables Ski Field where you can begin your hike up. The drive to the parking lot, in and of itself, offers spectacular views; while we drove up in our campervan , I would perhaps recommend a 4×4 next time. Factor in about an hour to get to the alpine lake – the first bit is steep, but then it flattens out for the majority of the climb. The reflections on the lake are simply beautiful, and I could have spent hours relaxing and reading by this beautiful lake.

Where to Sleep? Search all accommodations near Lake Alta here or get $55 off your AirBnB using my code here .

39. Kingston

Kingston is a must if you’re in a campervan or free-camping. On Campermate, “Kingston Campsite” is definitely where you’ll want to spend the night, as long as you’re in a self-contained vehicle. Not only is it a free campsite, but it’s right on the water too. More than that, it is an absolutely spectacular sunset spot! We only spent one night in Kingston, but we could have spent days just relaxing off the grid, as it was just so peaceful. 

Where to Sleep? Only sleep in Kingston if you’re in a self-contained campervan. If not, spend the night in Queenstown !

40. Te Anau

There’s nothing super special about Te Anau, but it’s the gateway to Milford Sound and a great place to grab a hotel if you’re just doing a Milford Sound day trip. There’s a cute town center, and it’s situated right on the lake. Te Anau is also known to have some of the best savory pies in New Zealand! 

Where to Sleep? Search all accommodations in Te Anau here or get $55 off your AirBnB using my code here . 

41. Milford Road

Milford Road is the one and only road that takes you from Te Anau to Milford Sound. Along the way there are so many pretty stops you can make and you can easily make a day out of Milford Road alone. Whether you stop at the Mirror Lakes, Lake Gunn, Key Summit, Lake Marian, The Chasm or anywhere in between, you’re bound to be blown away by the beauty! Unfortunately it down-poured both times that I drove down Milford Road, so maybe I’ll be luckier the third time! 

Where to Sleep? Search all accommodations on Milford Road here or get $55 off your AirBnB using my code here . 

42. Milford Sound

Considered the “eighth wonder of the world,” Milford Sound is one of the most spectacular places in the world. The best way to explore Milford Sound is through a day cruise. Rain or shine, you’re bound to have a great time. Keep your eyes peeled for Bowen Falls, Mitre Peak, and Stirling Falls, as those were my favorites! 

Where to Sleep? Search all accommodations near Milford Sound here or get $55 off your AirBnB using my code here . 

43. Doubtful Sound

Unlike Milford Sound, the everyday tourist tends to skip over Doubtful Sound because it’s a bit harder to reach, but so very worth it! On the way, you’ll cross Lake Manapouri and the Wilmot Pass, before boarding your cruise on Doubtful Sound . It’s a longer excursion than Milford Sound, but a great alternative if you’re out to see New Zealand’s iconic karst formations. 

Where to Sleep? Search all accommodations near Doubtful Sound here or get $55 off your AirBnB using my code here . 

44. The Catlins

The rolling green hills that define the Catlins make for a beautiful road trip along New Zealand’s Southern Scenic Route . Whether you’re stopping to check out Lake Wilkie, Matai Falls, Purakaunui Falls, Nugget Point, Moeraki Boulders, or anything in between, you’re bound to enjoy the southernmost region of New Zealand. 

Where to Sleep? Search all accommodations on the Southern Scenic Route here or get $55 off your AirBnB using my code here . 

Oamaru is definitely worth a stop if you’re into wildlife, as it’s home to the Blue Penguin Colony! These are the smallest penguins in the world, and oh so adorable. There are a range of tours available, from self-guided tours to guided tours and premium evening tours. I definitely recommend the evening tours, as that’s when the blue penguins are most active (they’re typically out fishing all day). We personally saw 65 blue penguins with the premium package. 5 FT Tip: No photographs are allowed, as not to disturb the penguins, so I have borrowed the below image from the Oamaru Blue Penguin Colony website .  

Where to Sleep? Search all accommodations in Oamaru here or get $55 off your AirBnB using my code here . 

46. Banks Peninsula

Whether you’ve just flown into New Zealand, or you're getting ready to take off, give yourself a few days to relax in the tranquility of the Banks Peninsula. Canopy Camping Escapes has an awesome glamping site called Green Antler just an hour east of Christchurch. It’s peaceful, isolated, and oh-so-comfortable. Not only will you have your own luxury glamping tent and amenities with epic views, but you’ll even have your own private wood-burning hot tub. I personally hope to make Green Antler part of my trip every time I fly in or out of Christchurch from here on out. 

Where to Sleep? Stay at the Green Antler by Canopy Camping Escapes! 

47. Christchurch

Christchurch is a great starting or ending point for anyone journeying to New Zealand. The first time we visited, it was our end point (as we started on the North Island), but the second time we visited, we started and ended in Christchurch (as we just explored the South Island). Christchurch has been hit with some rough earthquakes over the years, but has definitely been recovering. While there’s not much to do in Christchurch itself, the Botanic Gardens are said to be lovely, as well as New Regent Street and the Cardboard Cathedral. 

Where to Sleep? Search all accommodations in Christchurch here or get $55 off your AirBnB using my code here . 

Where are these places located?

Here’s a map to show you the most incredible places to visit in New Zealand. There are so many routes you can take – be it you just explore the North Island, just explore the South Island, or decide to tackle both islands. No matter which route you choose, it’s certainly bound to be awe-inspiring. I have put on the map below each of my recommended places to visit in New Zealand. If you have any questions, feel free to send me a message or leave a comment below. 

Purangi Winery

Cathedral cove, hot water beach, mt. tarawera, kaituna river, waimangu volcanic valley, the three sisters, wai-iti beach, mt. taranaki, tongariro national park, kissing gate, abel tasman national park, nelson lakes national park, teorumata cave, pancake rocks, hokitika gorge, franz josef glacier, omarama clay cliffs, lake pukaki, tasman terminal lake, lake tekapo, milford road, milford sound, doubtful sound, the catlins, banks peninsula, christchurch, resources on the best places to visit in new zealand….

I highly recommend purchasing (and reading!) the Lonely Planet New Zealand series before journeying into this incredible country. You never know what hidden gems you might find that I missed, as I’m sure there are many! Have a look at…

• New Zealand Travel Guide by Lonely Planet
• New Zealand’s Best Trips by Lonely Planet
• New Zealand’s North Island by Lonely Planet
• New Zealand’s South Island by Lonely Planet

And, of course, since it’s such a long journey over, don’t forget to pack your travel essentials! 

Do You Have Travel Insurance?

I hope you don’t travel without travel insurance! If you do, you better think again. Travel insurance is arguably the most important thing to have on hand (after your passports and visas). I’ve had to use my travel insurance multiple times on the road, even though I’m healthy. You never know when something might happen; take comfort in knowing that whether your flight gets cancelled or you wind up sick and in the hospital, you will be covered. I recommend World Nomads Travel Insurance for each and every one of you travelers. You can get a free quote here.  

Pin “47 Awe-Inspiring Places to Visit in New Zealand” for Later!

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You have me wanting to go back to New Zealand so badly. I’ve only spent a week in and around Auckland, which was great, but I’m dying to see the southern portion of the country.

Yessss! The South Island is out of this world! I couldn’t recommend it more highly.

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Hi, I’m Sarah!

Hello World! I’m Sarah Gallo, The Five Foot Traveler, and I choose to dream out loud. After conquering a crippling fear of flying, I’ve developed an unquenchable passion for traveling. Since my newfound freedom, I have set foot on all seven continents, explored 114 countries, and continue to strive to live life to the fullest. Continue Reading…

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• 24 Famous New Zealand Tourist Attractions That One Should Visit In 2023

23 Mar 2023

Backdrop for the legendary “Lord of the Rings” movies, New Zealand is a place with heavenly middle Earth beauty. Cascading waterfalls, deep fjords, hot water spring, steaming geysers, untamed wilds, clear beaches and dazzling glaciers; it’s just the beginning of its beautiful story. There are so many wonderful places to visit in New Zealand that it’s hard for people to decide which one to keep on the bucket list and which one to miss. Here is an attempt to sort this out with our list of most beautiful and famous New Zealand tourist attractions .

Top 24 Places To Visit In New Zealand

New Zealand is a country that is filled with a number of beautiful places. The list is actually very long and if you have to cover it all, it will at least take you more than one visit. However, out of all the places, there are certain destinations that obviously have more significance than the others. These are the places that you simply cannot count out of your list. These places reflect the true beauty of the country. Make sure that you include all these places to visit in New Zealand while planning your next trip. Here is the list of the top New Zealand tourist attractions:

1. Bay Of Islands

Image Source

One of the most popular New Zealand tourist attractions, Bay of Islands is a haven for yachts and sailing boats . Pearls of 144 islands adorn the necklace of Bay of Islands. Kayak along the coast, hike the island trails, enjoy in secluded coves, and explore undisturbed forests. Abundant marine life including dolphins, whales, big marlin, and penguins make for a popular fishing spot. All of these together makes the spot an ideal tourist destination in New Zealand.

Ritz Factor: Yachting and sailing spot. Don’t Miss: Hole in the Rock, the famous rock formation.

How to reach:

• By air: Auckland Airport is well connected with major international cities. Air New Zealand flight operate in tandem from Auckland to Bay of Island Airport, which is also known as Kerikeri Airport.
• By road: Bay of Islands is well connected with Auckland by road. Intercity buses and taxis operate from Auckland to Bay of Islands. The 193 km distance takes 3 hours to cover by state highways.

Best time to visit: February – March Stay options near Bay of Islands: Paradise on the Strand, Sea Spray Suites, Veronica House, and Arcadia Lodge Location: Northland

Must Read: 15 Fun Things To Do In New Zealand

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2. Tongariro National Park

Towering volcanoes, untamed forests, arid plateaus, hot springs, herb fields, turquoise lakes and lush meadows pitch for a melodramatic scenery. One of the oldest national parks in the world and best places to visit in New Zealand, Tongariro is a land of stunning beauty and natural wonders. Add in a visit to the Lake Taupo, and you are set for a surprisingly delightful day.

Ritz Factor: Mineral rich turquoise water lakes and melodramatic sceneries Don’t Miss: Taranaki Falls and lava line of volcanic eruptions

• By air: Auckland (345 km) & Wellington (288 km) Airports are the closest you can get to Tongariro National Park by air from major cities across the world. Book a cab or take a transport bus from the airport to reach Whakapapa Village- the gateway to Tongariro National Park.
• By road: Regular buses operate from Auckland to Tongariro National Park daily. By road it takes almost 7 hours to reach the national park.

Best time to visit: December – February

Stay options: Adventure Lodge and Motel, Chateau Tongariro Hotel, Pipers Lodge, and National Park Tavern

Location: Manawatu-Wanganui 4691, New Zealand

Rotorua is one such geothermal region in the world which has a bit of dramatic topography. It is located in the Pacific Ring of Fire. Dramatic, isn’t it? Steaming geysers, boiling mud pools, hissing thermal springs and volcanic craters add to its already startling topography. Stroll around these geothermal wonders and soak in the minerals-rich water. Options like sky diving, luging, trekking, and mountain biking make it one of the top tourist attractions in the North Island of New Zealand for adventurous souls.

Ritz Factor: Geothermal wonders and red lava lines are dominant features of this tourist attraction in New Zealand. Don’t Miss: Lady Knox Geyser, Champagne Pool, and Trout Fishing.

• By air: Wellington Airport (450 km) is well connected with major cities across the world. Intercity bus services and cabs are available from airport to Rotorua.
• By road: Coaches, shuttles and taxis run in tandem from Auckland to Rotorua. The ride via road takes a good 2.5 hours to reach Rotorua.

Best time to visit: November – April

Stay options: Millenium Hotel, Arista of Rotorua, Rydges Hotel, and Quest Hotel

Location: North Island

Suggested Read: 20 Best Beaches In New Zealand

4. Napier In Hawke’s Bay

Gourmet food and Art Deco – These two things define the Napier region, one of the best places to visit in New Zealand to take a peek in the Maori World. Spanish Mission style architecture and Art Deco design buildings line this city. Some of them are even adorned with Maori motifs. Also, gourmet restaurants in this place are to die for. Unique procedures and equally unique recipes, make even the regular dishes worthwhile.

Ritz Factor: Gourmet dining scenes and Art Deco architecture. Don’t Miss: Yearly Art Deco weekend in February. Also, the Gannet colony at Cape Kidnappers is a must visit among the famous New Zealand tourist attractions.

• By air: Napier’s Hawkes Bay Airport is almost 450 km from Auckland Airport, the international airport well connected with major airports across the world. Napier’s Hawkes Bay can be reached by local flights from Air New Zealand. By road it’s 5-hour drive.
• By road: Overnight inter city buses operate from Auckland to Napier and take 6 to 8 hours usually.

Best time to visit: July – August

Stay options: The Country Hotel Napier, The Crown Hotel Napier, Art Deco Masonic Hotel, and Scenic Hotel Te Pania

Location: Hawke’s Bay

5. Auckland

Two shimmering harbors, the Manukau Harbor and the Waitemata Harbor, are the main jewels of the Auckland crown. Rainforests, wild hike trails, hidden coves, picturesque islands, and mysterious volcanoes make this city a perfect base for adventure lovers. Unusual black and gold beaches set the backdrop for amazing pictures and memories. It is quite popular among top New Zealand tourist places.

Ritz Factor: Black sand beaches, gold sand beaches, and two sparkling harbors. Don’t Miss: Sky Tower – the 328 meters high tower to zoom in on the stunning expanse. Also, don’t even think about missing the Orbit revolving restaurant.

• By air: One of the major cities in the North Island, Auckland is well connected with major international cities. Auckland is well-connected with most of the cities of New Zealand by road

Best time to visit: June – September

Stay options: Skycity Grand, Off Broadway Motel, Warkworth Lodge, and Parklane Motor Lodge

Location: Auckland

Suggested Read: New Zealand In December

6. Coromandel Peninsula

Coromandel Peninsula is one of the best places to visit in Northern New Zealand. A sublime world, away from the city’s hustle-bustle, Coromandel Peninsula is a paradise for complacent people who look for peace around them. The beaches here are famous for their golden sand. Indulge in hiking, kayaking, and skydiving at this New Zealand tourist attraction.

Ritz Factor: A surreal world away from the hustle. Don’t Miss: Thames – a small city famous for its gold mining history; and the Hot Water Beach – dig your own hot water pool here.

• By air: Auckland Airport is the closest you can get to Coromandel Peninsula by air. Local flights take 30 minutes to reach Whitianga (Coromandel Peninsula) from Auckland. The peninsula is 1.5 hour drive from Auckland by road.
• By road: The scenic drive from Auckland, Hamilton or Rotorua Airport is very well connected by intercity buses and cars. The drive from Auckland takes almost 1.5 hour.
• By ferry: Regular ferries operate from Auckland to Coromandel town. The 2-hour ride is one of the most exciting things to do in the North Island region.

Best time to visit: September – November

Stay options: Anchor Lodge Coromandel, Aotearoa Lodge, Beachfront Resort, and Beachside Resort Whitianga

Location: Kaimarama 3591, New Zealand

7. Queenstown

Wondering what to see in New Zealand in 5 days? Country’s adventure capital, Queenstown is one of the top tourist destinations of New Zealand. Bungee jumping, white-water rafting, jet boating, rock climbing, paragliding, hiking, downhill skiing, mountain biking; the list of adrenaline-fueled sports is endless at this top tourist attraction in New Zealand.

Ritz Factor: Loads and loads of adventure sports. Don’t Miss: Explore gold mining towns and landscapes of snow-clad peaks of Remarkables Range.

• By air: Queenstown International Airport on the South Island is well connected with other major cities across the globe.
• By road: Intercity buses from Christchurch (354 km) and Auckland (1028 km) commute to Queenstown at regular intervals. Drive down to the city to enjoy one of the most scenic drives in New Zealand.

Best time to visit: June – August

Stay options: The Rees Hotel & Luxury Apartments, Heritage Queenstown, Coronation Lodge, and Adventure Queenstown Hostel

Location: South Island, New Zealand

Suggested Read: Honeymoon In New Zealand

8. Fiordland National Park

Home to some of the best walking trails, Fiordland National Park boasts of spectacular beauty. Whispering waterfalls, offshore islands, stretched lakes, undisturbed forests, high mountain peaks and gushing cascades make sure that you don’t have a dull moment in here. The popular ways to explore the fjords are sea kayaking or flights for bird’s eye views to enjoy this must see place in New Zealand.

Ritz Factor: Home base to famous fjords and striking beauty. Don’t Miss: Famous fjords of Milford Sound, Dusky Sound, and Doubtful Sound.

• By air: Queenstown airport is the closest you can get to Fiordland National Park by air. Located at a distance of 235 km from Queenstown the national park can be reached by taking a bus or driving in to Te Anau – also known as the gateway to the park
• By road: State highway buses ply from Invercargill or Queenstown. The 156 km distance from Invercargill to Fiordland National Park takes around 3 hours by road.

Best time to visit: Throughout the year

Stay options: Fiordland National Park Lodge, Aden Motel, Distinction Luxmore Hotel Te Anau, and Mintaro Hut

Location: 116 Little Park Lane, Te Anau 9600, New Zealand

9. Fox And Franz Josef Glaciers

The Franz Josef and Fox glaciers are one the most accessible glacial rivers in the world, and thus make it to list of best tourist attractions in New Zealand. The frozen landscapes of ice caves and mountain peaks at the foot of the glacier are a norm here. Walk over or ride a helicopter, do whatever you want to do but do not miss these amazing natural wonders.

Ritz Factor: World’s most accessible glaciers and best frozen sceneries Don’t Miss: Guided hikes to these glaciers are an experience which you shouldn’t miss.

• By air: Christchurch (5.5 hour drive) and Queenstown (5 hour drive) are the nearest and most accessible international airport from Franz Josef Glacier.
• By road: Buses and cabs are available from Christchurch, Wanaka, and Queenstown to Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers. Drive down to the place to experience a surreal driving experience

Stay options: Aspen Court Franz Josef, YHA Franz Josef Glacier, Alpine Glacier Motel, and Franz Josef Oasis

Location: West Coast 7886, New Zealand

Suggested Read: The Best Of New Zealand Nightlife

10. Abel Tasman National Park

Among the places to visit in South Island of New Zealand, the vast expanse of Abel Tasman National Park is a hiker’s dream come true. Wilderness with weathered rock formations set the background of this national park. The Tasman Coast Trek is the icing on the cake. Clear beaches and sparkling water lure tourists to themselves. Snorkel, hike, trek, camp or relax; the options are numerous here. And the sightings of rare birds like blue penguins, wekas, wood pigeons, and oystercatchers can make a photographer’s day.

Ritz Factor: Exotic bird sightings and weathered rock formations. Don’t Miss: Split Apple Rock – a gigantic granite boulder spliced in two.

• By air: Nelson Airport is the nearest airstrip to Abel Tasman, which is pretty accessible from major cities across the world. The 60 km distance from Nelson to the national park can be covered in 1-hour via State Highway 60.
• By road: Regular buses and cabs ply from Marahau (5-minute), Motueka (30-minute), Nelson (1-hour drive) to Abel Tasman National Park.

Stay options: Kimi Ora Eco Resort, Kaiteri Lodge, Abel Tasman Lodge, and Riwaka Retreat

Location: South Island 7183, New Zealand

11. Mount Cook National Park

Well, Mount Cook National Park, also known as Aoraki National Park, is the base of tallest mountain peak – Mount Cook and longest glacier – Tasman Glacier. This is the place where the legendary Edmund Hillary trained to ascend the heights of ginormos Mount Everest. A top destination for mountaineers, its pristine glaciers and serene beauty will catch your breathe. Surely justified for being among the top rated best places to visit in New Zealand!

Ritz Factor: A top mountaineering destination. Don’t Miss: Mount Cook Village to satisfy you’re your inner adventurer with the offerings such as ski-touring, heli-skiing, hiking, stargazing and hunting.

• By air: Christchurch and Queenstown airports are 2.5 hour drive from Mackenzie region (Mount Cook National Park). The international airports in Christchurch and Queenstown are well connected with other major cities around the world. Chartered flights are also available from these international airports to Mount Cook Airport.
• By road: Intercity buses are available from Christchurch, Queenstown, and Wellington. Take a bus or book a cab to reach Mount Cook Village. The national park is a 15-minute drive from the village.

Best time to visit: July – September

Stay options: The Westhaven, The Hermitage Hotel, Bella Vista Motel Fox Glacier, and YHA Aoraki Mt Cook

Location: Canterbury 7999, New Zealand

Suggested Read: 15 Adventurous Spots For Camping In New Zealand

12. Kaikoura

Seafood connoisseur, wildlife fanatics, bird watchers and natural beauty devotees find this place hard to resist. The taste of fresh crawfish, blue cod and mussels will tantalize your taste buds. Spotting of humpbacks, sperm whales, fur seals, dolphins and albatross, among the extensive wildlife here, against the stunning landscapes of Kaikoura, one of the top places to visit in New Zealand, will lift your spirits to a whole new level.

Ritz Factor: Tropical wildlife and best seafood. Don’t Miss: At this New Zealand tourist attraction, whale watching tours and coastal hikes should not be missed.

• By air: Christchurch International Airport is the nearest airstrip to Kaikoura, which is well connected with other major cities around the world. At a distance of 180 km from Christchurch, it takes 2.5 hours to reach Kaikoura by road.
• By road: Intercity buses and cabs run in tandem from Christchurch to Kaikoura. Travel time is 2.5 hours.

Best time to visit: April, June, and October

Stay options: Alpine View Motel, Heritage Court Motor Lodge, Anchor Inn Motel, and Aspen Court Motel

Location: South Island

13. Milford Sound

Image Source Termed as the ‘eighth wonder of the world’, Milford Sound is one of those unmissable places to visit in New Zealand. Surrounded by glaciers, the landscapes of Milford Sound is amazingly beautiful. The best way to explore the place is by boat. Explore the waterfalls and wildlife around the area on a cruise. You can even go for kayaking tour if you want. If you are already pleased by exploring the surface of the water, then you can go underneath the surface with a visit to the Milford Discovery Centre and Underwater Observatory. This is the only underwater observatory in New Zealand. You can go 30 feet deep into the water and experience a 360 degrees underwater view.

Ritz Factor: Beautiful waterfalls and amazing wildlife. Don’t Miss: The underwater experience at the Milford Discovery Centre and Underwater Observatory. How To Reach:

• By air: It is only 40 minutes away from Queenstown if you are to take a flight.
• By road : It is a 2 hour 30-minute drive from Te Anau to Milford Sound. You can easily take a car ride to your destination while enjoying the scenic views on the road.

Best time to visit: November to March Stay options: Matakauri Lodge, Kamana Lakehouse, Mercure Resort, Reavers Lodge and Browns Boutique Hotel.

Location: N/A

Suggested Read: 10 Things To Do In Auckland In Winter

14. Waiheke Island

Image Source Located just half n’ hour away from Downtown Auckland, Waiheke Island can be reached by boat and is one of the most beautiful places to visit in New Zealand. This is the ideal place for all the wine lovers out there. The place is home to a number of vineyards. While visiting this place you simply cannot miss out on going to the wine tours. You can relish the samples of 14 different wines on the wine tours. Expert guides will guide you to the three vineyards where you can taste some of the finest quality wines. Well, there is other stuff as well that you can do at the Waiheke Island other than just enjoying wine. The island is also very popular for its beaches, the art community, olive groves, and forests. It is advised that you opt for a hiking trip or a culture tour while you are here.

Ritz Factor: The land for all wine lovers. Don’t Miss: The delicious wine tours. How To Reach:

• By air: You can reach the island by a Sea Plane.
• By road: It is a 35-minute ferry ride from Downtown Auckland. You can take your vehicle along with you on the car ferry. Once you reach the island, you can avail plenty of taxis and buses. You can also hire a motorcycle or bike or car to explore the place.

Best time to visit: April Stay options: The Boatshed, Enclosure Bay, Waiheke Island Resort and Tawa Lodge Waiheke Island.

Location: Auckland, New Zealand

15. Christchurch

Image Source Christchurch is one of the main tourist attractions in New Zealand. Despite the fact that four massive earthquakes between the period 2010 and 2011 had completely left the city in ruins, it has still managed to spring back to life. You can witness the rebirth of the city everywhere. Starting from new buildings to shopping malls everything has been reconstructed again. The main attractions of the city include the beautiful Botanic Gardens where you can enjoy the lovely walking tracks, conservatories, and horticulture displays. The garden is also home to some of the oldest, tallest, and largest trees in New Zealand. Explore both the new and old Christchurch on the gondola. You can enjoy a scenic ride of the Mt. Cavendish on the cable car.

Ritz Factor: The beautiful city that came back to life. Don’t Miss: The ride on the Christchurch Gondola over the top of the Mt. Cavendish. How To Reach:

• By air: The nearest airport is the Christchurch International Airport which is located 12 km away from the city center.
• By road: You can opt for the daily passenger service that connects Christchurch and Dunedin via the state highway 1.

Best time to visit: March to May Stay options: Accra Beach hotel and spa, Sunday hotel, Blue Orchids Beach Hotel, Blue horizon hotel, and Dover beach hotel.

Location: East Coast

Suggested Read: 10 Best Train Journeys In New Zealand

16. White Island

Image Source If you want to try something more thrilling on your trip, then White Island is one of the best places to visit in New Zealand. It is the most active volcano in the country. This place is ideal for all the adventurous travelers who would like to make their trip a memorable one. You can take a helicopter ride over the White Island while enjoying the stunning view of the volcanic landscape. Since this is an area of active volcanoes, you are required to wear gas masks and hard hats. If you are lucky enough, then you can even watch volcanologists monitoring the volcanoes. You can even take on the island by a boat. For the travelers who are fearless, they can even go for scuba diving around the White Island and explore the underwater vents of the volcanoes.

Ritz Factor: Scenic beauty of the active volcanoes. Don’t Miss: Scuba diving around the White Island. How To Reach:

• By air: You can take a flight from Tauranga Airport and reach White Island within 30 minutes. The nearest airport is Whakatane Airport from where you can get daily flights to White Islands as well.
• By road: You can take a car ride from any of the cities from the North Island like Auckland, Tauranga, and Hamilton. You can also avail bus services like the Intercity and Naked bus which runs to and from Rotorua.

Best time to visit: September to April Stay options: Medano island resort, Balai sa Baibai, Kurma eco beach lodge, and Paras beach resort.

Location: Bay of Plenty 3120, New Zealand

17. Whakarewarewa Geothermal Valley

Image Source The list of best places to visit in New Zealand is just incomplete without the mention of the Te Whakarewarewa Geothermal Valley. Here you can witness the Maori arts at the Maori arts and crafts institute which is located in Rotorua’s Te Whakarewarewa Geothermal Valley. At the Maori heritage center, you can enjoy the most popular ‘steam box’ meal which is prepared using ancient geothermal cooking techniques. Travelers can also experience a special Maori welcome ceremony that includes traditional songs and dance performances. One of the main attractions of the place is the largest active geyser, Pohutu which is located in the southern hemisphere. Other than that you can also enjoy the mud pools which is yet another highlight of the area.

Ritz Factor: The land of the Maori culture and heritage. Don’t Miss: Exploring the largest active geyser Pohutu. How To Reach:

• By air: The nearest airport is the Rotorua’s Regional airport. You can get flights to and from Wellington, Queenstown, and Auckland.
• By road: You can avail bus services in order to reach the geothermal valley. You can catch a bus from Auckland which will take you around 3 hours and 30 minutes.

Best time to visit: March to May Stay options: Novotel Rotorua Lakeside, ibis Rotorua, Milleniuk hotel Rotorua and Holiday Inn Rotorua.

Location: 3040 Hemo Road, Tihiotonga, Rotorua 3010, New Zealand

Suggested Read: 10 Incredible Mountains In New Zealand

18. Waitomo Glowworm Caves

Image Source If you wish to experience something really beautiful and unique then this could be the idle place for you. The cave is naturally illuminated by thousands of glowworms. This is a site which you have never seen in your life before. This is actually one of the most unique places to visit in New Zealand. To explore the caves, you can take a boat ride through it and learn about the science and history behind the entire phenomenon. By visiting this place you can have a completely different experience which is hard to duplicate anywhere else. Thousands of tourists are attracted to the caves because they want to witness this beautiful phenomenon with their own eyes.

Ritz Factor: The unique site of thousands of glowworms. Don’t Miss: The boat ride through the cave. How To Reach:

• By air: You can take a flight from Auckland in order to reach the Waitomo Caves.
• By road: By road, it is going to take you around 2 hours in order to reach Waitomo Caves from Auckland. There are a number of bus services that you can avail to reach your destination.

Best time to visit: November to April Stay options: Waitomo Caves hotel, Waitomo caves guest lodge, Hotel kiwi paka Waitomo and Abseil Inn.

Location: 39 Waitomo Village Road, Waitomo 3977, New Zealand

19. Franz Josef Glacier

Image Source If you are into hiking, then this could be the ideal destination for you. This place is suitable for an actual glacier hiking in New Zealand. Other than hiking tours, you can also opt for an aerial view from a chopper. Tours around here provide you with everything. From hiking to mountain climbing, you can enjoy it all around here. This place is ideal for all the adventure and sports lover as you can get plenty of activities to get involved. You can also enjoy soaking in the glacier hot pools and relax. These pools are fed from the Franz Josef Glacier. If you want a more luxurious enjoyment, then you can even opt for a private pool as well.

Ritz Factor: A best spot for hiking and mountain climbing. Don’t Miss: Soaking yourself in the glacier hot pools after a long day of exploration. How To Reach:

• By air: You can take a flight from the Christchurch International Airport in order to reach your destination.
• By road: You can take a car ride from Christchurch to Franz Josef Glacier. It is a five-hour long route. You can enjoy the scenic view of the road while traveling.

Best time to visit: November to February Stay options: Scenic Hotel Franz Josef Glacier, Aspen Court Motel Franz Josef, rainforest Retreat Franz Josef, The Terrace Motel Franz Josef, and Franz Josef Oasis.

Suggested Read: New Zealand In November

20. Muriwai Beach

Image Source Another great destination that is among the top tourist attractions in the North Island New Zealand, is the Muriwai beach. Located just 40 minutes away from the Auckland city, the beach offers you with great scenic views. The killer sunsets, the massive sand dunes, and amazing surf, all of these together contributes to the beauty of the place. It can be said that this is one of the best holiday spots in the whole of New Zealand. During your visit to this stunning beach, you simply cannot afford to miss visiting the Gannet Colony that overlooks two beautiful bays. This is where you will find thousands of birds flying just over your head. It is a beautiful site that you wouldn’t want to miss.

Ritz Factor: Stunning scenic beauty Don’t Miss: Visiting the Gannet Colony How To Reach:

• By air: You can take a flight from Auckland airport in order to reach your destination.
• By road: You can get plenty of bus services from Auckland to reach Muriwai Beach.

Best time to visit: August to April Stay options: Muriwai Beach B&B, 216 Luxury Accommodation Auckland, Bush Sand, and Sea and Coast Retreat Muriwai.

21. Milford Sound

New Zealand is a place full of adventures and another interesting place to visit here is Milford Sound. Situated towards the southwest of South Island, this is a fiord in New Zealand. It is famous with locals and foreigners for its beauty as it encompasses the magnificent Mitre Peak, lush rainforests and cascading waterfalls. The fiord also houses the gorgeous fur seals, dolphins and penguins. Take a boat tour on your visit to Milford Sound in New Zealand.

Ritz Factor: cascading Stirling and Bowen waterfalls Don’t Miss: Watching rare black coral at Underwater Observatory

• By air: Queenstown Airport offers flights to Milford Sound. There are air tours too that one can choose to enjoy from Queenstown.
• By road: One can get to Milford Sound via road. It is a 5 hours drive to this place from Queenstown and 2-and-a-half-hour drive from Te Anau. One can either hire a cab or take a bus.

Best time to visit: June to August Stay options nearMilford Sound: Milford Sound Lodge, Ultimate Hikes Location: Southland 9679, New Zealand

Suggested Read: 6 Water Parks In New Zealand

22. Matapouri

Located just 35 km north-east of Whangarei, Matapouri is one of the offbeat tourist destinations in New Zealand. It is a beautiful coastal destination with shimmering white sand. With quite a few holiday homes, it is a beautiful area in Northland to spend a day or two. Whale Bay is just 40 minutes away and the two are connected via a walkway.

Ritz Factor: Mermaid Pools Don’t Miss: Diving into the emerald Mermaid Pools

• By air: Whangarei Airport is the closest airport to Matapouri, at a distance of 42 km. One can further hire a car or self-drive.
• By road: Matapouri is connected to the nearby towns via roads, and one can self-drive. It is a mere half hour drive from Tutukaka.

Best time to visit: January to June Stay options near Matapouri: 36 Steps to the Beach, The Riverbank Homestay and B&B, Location: Northland

A serene seaside village to the west of Auckland, Piha is one of the best places to visit in the North Island of New Zealand. With a rugged rough coast, it is a breathtaking black sand surf beach. New Zealand is a beautiful country with so many unique experiences to offer through such places like Piha. if you are looking for adventure, then the hills surrounding Piha are amazing locations for nature walks.

Ritz Factor: Black sand Piha beach Don’t Miss: Surfing and abseiling to the gorgeous Piha Canyon

• By air: Auckland airport is the nearest airport to Piha at a distance of around 48 km.
• By road: Auckland is the nearest major city and shuttle buses are available to piha. One can even drive down from the city which is 40 km away.

Best time to visit: November and April Stay options near Piha: Hotel Romantic Piha, Karekare Beach Lodge Location: New Zealand’s North Island

Suggested Read: 11 Places To Go Skydiving In New Zealand

Offering breathtaking views of the snowcapped mountains, Wanaka is a resort town in New Zealand. It is famous for all the adventure activities that one can indulge in around Wanaka. The Snow Farm near Wanaka is one of the most beautiful places in New Zealand to enjoy cross country skiing. If one is game for hiking and trekking, then Roy’s Peak is an uphill hike that would take one around 3 hours. Head to this resort town and spend a good 2-3 days here.

Ritz Factor: Roy’s Peak and snowcapped mountains Don’t Miss: Adventure activities like skydiving, canyoning, and mountaineering

• By air: Queenstown airport is an hour away from Wanaka, and one can take a shuttle bus or rental cars here.
• By road: One can self-drive to Wanaka too, from any nearby city. Cars are easily available on rent.

Best time to visit: June Stay options near Wanaka: Bo’s Bach, The Moorings Wanaka Location: New Zealand’s South Island

Further Read: 10 Best Places To Visit In Auckland

So,  these are some of the best places to visit in New Zealand. Your trip to this amazing country remains incomplete without visiting these mentioned attractions. You can have a lovely experience and make your trip a memorable one by paying a visit to all these mentioned places. Now, we’ve given you enough fodder to start planning. Get the tickets done and set your itinerary now for your trip to New Zealand !

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Frequently Asked Questions About New Zealand Tourist Attractions

What is famous in New Zealand?

New Zealand is known for the Manuka honey, Sheep, wine, Lord of the Rings, kiwifruit and rugby.

What is the most beautiful place in New Zealand?

Tongariro National Park, Waitakere beaches, Golden Bay, Abel Tasman Coast track, The Waikato River are some of the best New Zealand attractions which one must visit.

What are the must do things in New Zealand?

When you’re in New Zealand, make sure to experience the Boogie Board Down Sand Dunes at the 90-Mile beach or go and sail in the Bay of Islands. Apart from that one can also go and Kayak around the Cathedral cove or walk inside the Glowworm caves in Waitomo.

What to see in New Zealand for 2 weeks?

When you’re traveling to New Zealand for 2 weeks make sure to visit Auckland, Waiheke Island, Waitomo caves, Rotorua, Taupo and Wellington.

Is New Zealand expensive?

While in New Zealand the major cities which one covers is Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch. And among this the most expensive city is Auckland.

Which New Zealand Island is the most scenic?

The North Island of New Zealand has traditional white-sand beaches which are ideal for swimming. While in the island’s south, there are volcanoes around Tongariro National Park.

Is New Zealand worth visiting?

New Zealand is a country which is known for natural reserves and marine reserves which must be visited at least once in a lifetime. And apart from that New Zealand is also the place which has adventure activities.

Which is the best island to visit in New Zealand?

The South Island is one of the best island to visit in New Zealand which is known for the Routeburn track, the Milford track and the Abel Tasman coast track which are unique in their own way.

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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

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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!

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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

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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

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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

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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.

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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.

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Vacationing at these destinations? You will pay tourist taxes, fees

There are a slew of places with tourist taxes or fees.

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Travelers may encounter a tourist tax or fee depending on their destination.

That additional travel cost could come up if a person visits one of the slew of places around the world that have such charges. Factors that spurred the taxes can vary, ranging from climate change to overtourism, according to reports.

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Five locales with tourist taxes or fees include:

Venice, Italy

Piazza San Marco square view from the Giudecca Canal, Venice, Veneto, Italy. (Photo by: Mauro Flamini/REDA&CO/Universal Images Group via Getty Images) (Mauro Flamini/REDA&CO/Universal Images Group via Getty Images / Getty Images)

The roughly $5.35 daily tourist access fee for Venice, home to the Rialto Bridge, Doge’s Palace and St. Mark’s Basilica, launched as a pilot on Thursday after it received the go-ahead from city officials in mid-September. It targets day-trippers coming into the city between 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. and is required on specific dates in April, May, June and July during the test period.

Mount Fuji and the Shinjuku skyline seen from an observation deck in Tokyo, Japan, on Tuesday, Dec. 26, 2023. Japan's industrial output in November is scheduled to be released by the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry on Dec. 28. Photographer: A (Akio Kon/Bloomberg via Getty Images / Getty Images)

International tourists can face an "International Tourist Tax" while exiting Japan, per the Japanese National Tax Agency . It amounts to about $6.30 per departure and must be paid by those taking planes or boats to do so.

Barcelona, Spain

BARCELONA, SPAIN - 2023/12/11: View of the Sagrada Familia, the largest unfinished Catholic church in the world which has been under construction for 144 years, and part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its completion is estimated to be in 2026. (Pho (Xavi Lopez/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images / Getty Images)

While the city’s nightly tax for travelers staying at tourist accommodations has existed for quite some time, it went up at the beginning of the month, becoming about $3.47. It is capped at seven nights. Catalonia, the region where Barcelona is located, also has a graduated tourist tax that’s size is determined by one’s accommodation, according to The Points Guy.

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This photograph taken on January 10, 2024, shows a a residential area (L) on the banks of the Wang Chuu River also known as Raidak River flowing through Bhutan's capital Thimphu. (Photo by Money SHARMA / AFP) (Photo by MONEY SHARMA/AFP via Getty Imag (MONEY SHARMA/AFP via Getty Images / Getty Images)

Bhutan, nestled in the Himalayas in Asia, asks most tourists to hand over nightly Sustainable Development Fees of $100 for adults and $50 for ages 6-12. It charges a differently-priced fee from those coming from India. The money goes toward "various projects that create long-term, sustainable opportunities for the Bhutanese people," the country’s department of tourism website said. 

New Zealand

Buildings in Auckland, New Zealand, on Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022. New Zealand is scheduled gross domestic product (GDP) figures on Sept. 15. Photographer: Fiona Goodall/Bloomberg via Getty Images (Fiona Goodall/Bloomberg via Getty Images / Getty Images)

New Zealand’s tourist tax, called the International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy, costs $35. Tourists encounter it during the visa application process. The country requires it for "most people entering New Zealand on a temporary basis" such as vacation and certain student and short-term work visas, according to the government. 

Tourism a boon for economy

Travel and tourism provides major benefits to local economies and the global economy alike.

Countries around the world will see travel and tourism produce $11.1 trillion in 2024, according to a report recently released by the World Travel & Tourism Council.

TRAVEL AND TOURISM TO BREAK RECORDS, BRING OVER $11 TRILLION IN 2024: REPORT

Part of that will include spending by international travelers. They will reportedly contribute $1.89 trillion, according to the WTTC.

New Zealand map

Planning a trip around Aotearoa New Zealand? Explore the country's highlights and hidden gems with interactive or downloadable maps.

Explore top things to see in New Zealand

Check out top places and attractions around the country on the interactive map. 

You'll never be short of things to do in New Zealand. Check out our top picks. 

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Explore New Zealand itineraries 

Not sure where to go? Explore itineraries around New Zealand on the map below. 

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New Zealand regions

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North Island

Each region in the North Island is unique. Explore vibrant cities, serene beaches, geothermal hotspots and Māori culture.

South Island

From sunny Nelson Tasman to the dense rainforests of Fiordlands. the South Island's regions are wonderfully diverse.

New Zealand touring map

Download and print the New Zealand Touring Map to see information on each of the regions in New Zealand and 16 themed highways.

New Zealand Touring Map (opens in new window) [PDF 3.6MB]

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