Way down on the far corner of the globe, nestled between the Pacific Islands, Australia and Antarctica is one of the world’s best-rated countries to live in — New Zealand. Despite its rather unassuming presence on the map, New Zealand is probably one of the highest-ranking countries to visit in the world, too.
If you’re planning a trip to explore the Land of the Long White Cloud, keep on reading for some of the best things to do in New Zealand.
Plan Your Travels: 6 of the Best Things to do in New Zealand
New Zealand is known as the land of extremes — with its volcanic geography, glaciers, tropical beaches, geothermal attractions, mountain passes, and numerous national parks. This island nation truly has something to offer for everyone who visits.
Here are some must-see attractions while exploring Aotearoa:
1. Feed Your Adrenaline in Queenstown
Queenstown is the epicenter for all things adventure and adrenaline in New Zealand. It’s also a spectacular city surrounded by water and undulating mountain passes and packed with quaint cafes, bars, art galleries and so much more. From jet, ski boat rides to skiing, snowboarding, hiking, bungy jumping, and biking, take your pick in Queenstown.
Another one of New Zealand’s most popular cities is Queenstown, also located on the South Island of New Zealand. Make sure to add this city to your itinerary while you’re exploring the South Island and check out these venues for hire and to explore while you’re there.
2. Get a Dose of Māori Culture
Hit up the town of Rotorua, located on the North Island, for a true taste of New Zealand culture and hospitality. Rotorua is the cultural heart of New Zealand and offers tours of traditional Māori villages and cultural shows. Here you can even enjoy an authentic ‘hāngī’ feast.
While in Rotorua, make sure to explore the country’s famous geothermal pools. Rotorua is home to numerous geysers, boiling mud pools and massive volcanic craters as the city sit at the center of the Pacific Ring of Fire.
3. Sample Local Wines on Waiheke Island
Waiheke Island is located just 30-40 minutes ferry ride from mainland New Zealand and is host to its very own network of vineyards.
Discover the island on a wine tour and explore olive groves, art studious, gorgeous cafes, and the vineyards, of course. Get a taste of New Zealand’s finest wines all while taking in the 360-degree sea views.
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4. Explore a New Zealand National Park
If New Zealand is known for one thing alone, it has to be the majestic beauty of its many national parks. From wild rivers, huge glaciers, and untouched beaches, nature-lovers are in for a treat. Visit the region of Canterbury and hike around Mt. Cook village for stunning views and the best dose of nature New Zealand has to offer.
Otherwise, head to the Bay of Islands in New Zealand’s Northland. This spectacle offers 144 different islands to discover as well as deserted beaches, and incredible whale and dolphin-watching experiences.
5. Marvel at Milford Sound
Like something out of a Disney storybook, Milford Sound is one of New Zealand’s most spectacular natural sites and is regarded as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Depart from Queenstown on a cruise around the Milford Sound fiords and take in cascading waterfalls, snow-capped mountains, and whale sightings, all in one experience!
6. Feed Your LOTR Fantasies
Of course, no visit to New Zealand would be completed without a visit to Hobbiton for all Lord of the Rings (LOTR) fans! Even if you aren’t a fan, a tour of the Middle-Earth Shire is still extremely impressive. Set in Matamata, just outside Auckland, The Shire offers daily guided tours for your LOTR fix.
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We hope this blog on the best things to do in New Zealand have you booking your flights to this beautiful island nation!
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