10 Best Things to Do in New Zealand

Boasting towering peaks, deep blue waters and gushing waterfalls, Milford Sound is New Zealand’s crown jewel on the west coast of the South Island. The awe-inspiring landscapes and untamed beauty of this fiord are certainly an impressive sight to behold, rightfully earning it the title ‘8th Wonder of the World’.

There are several ways to experience these dramatic vistas. Boat cruises are a popular option, particularly after the rain, when countless waterfalls cascade from the cliffs. For the more adventurous, a kayak tour provides an up-close encounter with marine life. Don’t miss the Milford Track, a trail winding through lush rainforests and across suspension bridges into the heart of this wild paradise.

10 km southwest of Matamata, Hobbiton Movie Set stands as the most famous filming site for The Lord of the Rings trilogy. A must-visit for Tolkien fans, this enchanting village takes you on a magical journey through Middle-Earth, bringing the iconic film trilogy to life. Explore the Shire’s idyllic streets and enjoy a hearty feast at The Green Dragon Inn. And if you’re due for a second breakfast, head out to The Millhouse.

As you journey through the village, you’ll learn about the intricate details that went into crafting this enchanting set and the most famous locations. Hobbiton Movie Set is open daily but be sure to book your tours in advance as they are known to sell out.

Learn about the identity, history and culture of New Zealand at Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa, located on Wellington’s stunning waterfront. As the country’s national museum, it’s a treasure chest of stories, art and artefacts in full sense of the word, as its Maori name poetically translates to ‘the container of treasures’.

Renowned for using the latest technology and interactive exhibits, the museum is an immersive and fun experience for all ages, with lots of hands-on exploration opportunities. Traverse a variety of captivating displays, from the powerful Maori exhibits to the colossal squid display. Wander through Bush city, a living outdoor exhibition, or experience the thrill of a simulated aftershock in the ‘Earthquake House’.

Soar to new heights at the 328-metre-high Sky Tower in Auckland, an iconic landmark that dominates the cityscape. Ride a glass-fronted lift to one of the viewing platforms to feast your eyes on the 360-degree views of the city and its top landmarks.

Beyond the visual thrills, Sky Tower brims with adrenaline-fuelled activities. Test your nerve with a SkyWalk along the open-air walkway surrounding the tower at 192 metres or SkyJump off the tower. If these seem too daring, you can get your heart pumping at the virtual reality slide down the glass tubes winding around the tower. Complement the mesmerising views with a unique culinary experience at a revolving restaurant or sip a cocktail at the SkyBar.

Nestled in the stunning Coromandel Peninsula, the Hot Water Beach lures visitors with the hope of digging their own natural spa pool in the sand. Thanks to the underground volcanic hot water springs that keep the water heated, digging into the sand creates nature’s own hot tubs. Temperatures can reach 64°C, so be sure to test the water before taking the plunge.

Soaking in the thermally heated spring water, with the Pacific Ocean just a few metres away, offers a truly unforgettable experience. Make sure to visit this natural wonder within 2 hours either side of low tide, when the area is accessible and remember to bring a spade or rent one from the local shops or cafes nearby.

Rising majestically from the heart of Auckland’s Hauraki Gulf, Rangitoto Island is a stunning testament to New Zealand’s volcanic history. The island with its iconic symmetrical cone dominates the city skyline, and its proximity to the coast makes it a captivating day trip destination for hikers.

Embark on a gentle 1-hour climb through lava fields to reach the island’s 260-metre-high summit, where you’ll be rewarded with awe-inspiring views. Pack a torch with you and explore the intriguing black lava caves on your way to the top. Make sure to come prepared with your own food and water, as there are no cafes or shops on this raw and untamed island.

Just a short ferry ride from Auckland, Waiheke Island is a wine lover’s dream, with around 30 wineries, many of them offering cellar tours and tasting rooms. Blessed with warm summers, mild winters and rich volcanic soil, this island has an ideal environment for growing grapes. Its vineyards are known for their high-quality red wines based on Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot grape varieties, among others.

Explore the vineyards, nestled amid charming hills and stunning ocean views, and have a glass of the good stuff with a gourmet meal at one of the many vineyard restaurants. Note that some vineyards may only be open from Thursday or Friday through to Sunday, so be sure to check the opening times.

With The Remarkables mountain range as the backdrop and the crystal-clear waters of Lake Wakatipu in the foreground, Queenstown's rugged beauty is simply staggering. Its scenery, made famous by the Lord of the Rings trilogy, is where the picturesque postcards come to life.

Known as the adventure capital of the world, there’s no shortage of activities in Queenstown for adrenaline junkies and nature lovers. From bungee jumping off the Kawarau Bridge and tackling the white-water rapids of the Shotover River to hitting the slopes of The Remarkables or Coronet Peak, there's never a dull moment. For a more serene experience, book a leisurely cruise across Lake Wakatipu or a wine-tasting session at a local winery as a peaceful alternative.

For thrill-seekers visiting New Zealand, an exhilarating escapade awaits as you white-water raft down the mighty Kaituna River. Located near Rotorua, this river carves a path through green forests and deep canyons, its wild waters promising an adventure of a lifetime. The intense rapid sequences and captivating waterfall drops, including the famous 7-metre Tutea Falls, offer an unforgettable experience.

Kaituna River is not just about the adrenaline rush. It’s also a chance to immerse yourself in the stunning natural beauty of New Zealand’s North Island. During the calmer stretches of the river, make sure to catch your breath and absorb the stunning scenery. With experienced guides ensuring your safety, this adventure in the awe-inspiring wilderness will leave your heart pounding.

A captivating off-the-beaten-path region that begs to be explored, the Catlins, is in the southeastern corner of New Zealand’s South Island. This harmonious blend of rugged coastlines and dense rainforests beckons explorers with its stunning waterfalls, raw charm and array of wildlife.

Immerse yourself in the magic of Nugget Point, where an iconic lighthouse stands guard over awe-inspiring ocean panoramas. Witness the captivating spectacle of the region’s wildlife, including the chance to see the rare, yellow-eyed penguins. Venture to the Cathedral Caves, a natural spectacle of towering sea caves reaching up to 30 metres and renowned for their cathedral-like structure. With its unspoiled scenery and rich wildlife, the Catlins is a testament to New Zealand’s captivating beauty.