North Island and South Island make up New Zealand, an amazing country to explore. The island nation is packed with stunning nature that must be seen to be believed, including amazing panoramas, gorgeous scenery, and a unique combination of lakes, mountains, and lush foliage.
Top 10 Places to Visit in New Zealand
If you consider yourself an adventure sports fan, or even if you’re just curious to give them a try, New Zealand should be on your bucket list. Exciting outdoor activities such as bungee jumping, climbing, paragliding, skydiving, mountain biking, kayaking, canyoning, parachuting, caving, and zip line are available.
Let’s just say there’s no limit to the variety of outdoor pursuits available in this remote location. At Queenstown, surrounded by mountains and lakes, you may learn to master extreme sports.
The dramatic Fiordland is also here; it was used as Middle Earth in Peter Jackson’s films for The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit (you can even go to The Shire!). Learn about Maori traditions in Rotorua, and if you’re pining for urban life, visit sunny Auckland, New Zealand’s largest city. Here is a rundown of some of New Zealand’s top attractions:
1. Stewart Island
South Island is the southernmost of New Zealand’s major islands, while Stewart Island lies even further south. Around 80% of the island is protected as part of the Rakiura National Park, allowing visitors to see the wild side of New Zealand.
Stewart Island is a great place to go hiking, camping, and birdwatching, among other outdoor activities. The Northwest Circuit is one of the most well-known hikes on Stewart Island, and it can take even experienced hikers multiple days to complete. Yet, the walk leads to some magnificent sights and the chance to encounter fascinating creatures.
2. Nelson
Nelson, at the very tip of the South Island, is well recognised as the location in New Zealand with the highest annual average of daylight hours. Nelson is a terrific place for outdoor leisure thanks to its pleasant climate and proximity to three national parks.
The region’s wines and farmland are also highlighted. In the middle of the city, at Founder’s Park, you may relax in the sun while enjoying delicious farm-to-table fare. Taking an early bus from Nelson will get you to Abel Tasman National Park in time for a day of exploration.
3. Glacier Country
Westland National Park, located on the western coast of South Island, is the crown jewel of Glacier Country. The park is home to two of the most impressive glaciers in the country: Franz Josef and Fox.
Franz Josef Glacier is one of the world’s most approachable since you can walk right up to it and even through the glacier valley. The magnificent glacier hot baths are a great way to unwind after a day of hiking, and guided tours will get you up close and personal with the developing glaciers.
4. Napier
After a devastating fire more than eight decades ago, the North Island seaside town of Napier rose from the ashes as the Art Deco Capital of New Zealand. The ideal way to appreciate Napier is to go to the National Aquarium of New Zealand after taking a walking tour of the city for a guided or self-guided architecture tour.
The new exhibits at this gigantic aquarium, which houses everything from turtles to crocodiles, are among the best in the world.
5. Rotorua
New Zealand’s thermal capital, Rotorua, is a must-see for anybody visiting the country. The area around the city is rich with geysers and thermal springs. Several of these can be found in protected natural areas.
Steam, boiling water, and dirt can occasionally erupt from the ground in unexpected places. Wai-O-Tapu, not far away, is also a popular destination thanks to its abundance of colourful hot springs and the nearby Lady Knox Geyser.
6. Paihia
Paihia is a fantastic base from which to explore the Bay of Islands and the rest of New Zealand. Despite its small-town vibe, Paihia is home to numerous high-quality hotels and exciting tourist attractions.
You can go scuba diving to the Rainbow Warrior shipwreck or go dolphin swimming if you’re in the mood for some physical activity. After returning to dry land, you can dine at one of the many excellent seafood restaurants on Marsden Road.
7. Auckland
Auckland, New Zealand’s largest and most populous city, is also its nickname, “City of Sails.” It can be found on the North Island and is renowned for its diverse cultural scene and delicious cuisine. Climbing the Auckland Harbor Bridge will reward you with breathtaking panoramas of this stunning city.
The oldest portion of Auckland, the Auckland Domain, is rich in New Zealand history and culture, so it’s a must-see if you want to understand more about the country. Great displays of Maori and Pacific Island items can be seen at the Auckland Museum in the Auckland Domain.
8. Queenstown
Queenstown, located on the South Island of New Zealand, is an internationally renowned mecca for thrill-seekers and explorers. Queenstown is an extraordinarily beautiful place since it is encircled by the towering peaks of the Southern Alps and sits on the banks of deep-blue Lake Wakatipu.
Taking a cruise on Lake Wakatipu is a great way to take in the sights. Cruise its lovely waterways or ride your bike around its circumference. The small downtown area is jammed with bars and restaurants, creating a lively evening scene.
9. Tongariro National Park
Tongariro was New Zealand’s first national park and is well-known for its dramatic landscapes and unexpected features. Lakes, volcanoes, herb fields, wild woods, and desert-like plateaus are just few of the ecosystems that may be found in this park.
The breathtaking Taranaki Falls are only a three-hour walk from the Whakapapa Visitor Center. The trail crosses a lava line from volcanic eruptions that occurred hundreds of years ago as it winds through scrubland and forest.
10. Fiordland
Fiordland National Park is widely regarded as one of New Zealand’s most beautiful natural attractions. Incredible treks, trout fishing, and cruises along the South Island’s beautiful fjords (called sounds) are all possible from this southwestern section.
The glacier-formed Milford Sound is Fiordland’s most popular tourist destination. While on a trip around Milford Sound, you may observe dolphins, penguins, and countless other species of animals.
