Uh-oh, have you caught the travel bug? Scratch that wanderlust itch with a visit to these stunning places and attractions in New Zealand.
It’s official. Travel season is upon us, and it’s finally time to answer that call for adventure that has been growing louder with each passing day. Can’t decide if you should spend your days basking on golden beaches, unleashing your inner daredevil, or admiring nature’s best? Why not have them all at the diverse destination of New Zealand? Each region of this picturesque country offers a unique adventure for every traveller. Whether you’re a thrill junkie, nature lover or laid-back traveller, keep reading for all the best places to visit in New Zealand!
1. South Island: A must-visit for thrill seekers
The South of New Zealand is not short of majestic mountains, awe-inspiring wildlife and serene lakesides. But we’re putting the limelight on the thrills and spills awaiting at Queenstown. Synonymous with the adventure capital of the world, this destination is not for the faint of heart.
There’s a variety of activities that will get your heart pumping. Dive headfirst from the world-famous Kawarau Bridge; or embark on an adrenaline-pumping jet boat ride across Lake Wakatipu or Shotover River. Be sure to hold on tight as the ride will take you on 360-degree spins and insane speeds of up to 95km per hour.
The charming gold mining town of Arrowtown is another well-known spot. Embark on one of the walking, hiking or biking trails to get the best of adventure and pristine nature.
2. North Island: Food for your mind, body and soul
Is your idea of a perfect vacation all about slow mornings, lush escapes and switching off your busy mind? Let the rejuvenating experiences in the North of New Zealand fuel your mind, body and soul.
Set your sights on Rotorua, one of the best places to visit in New Zealand for crystal-clear streams, bubbling mud pools and natural hot springs. Make a trip to Whakarewarewa Valley to get up-close to this active geothermal landscape and marvel at the wonders of nature. Wrap up your visit with a natural hot stream soak at one of the bath houses, or take the wellness experience up a notch and spend the afternoon at a luxurious spa.
Post-rejuvenation, step into Tamaki Maori Village to immerse yourself into the vibrant Maori culture. You’ll get to try a traditional hangi feast cooked in an earth oven, watch a powerful and vibrant kapa haka performance, and pick up some Maori phrases along the way.
3. West Coast: The best of Mother Nature
Let’s be real; you can’t leave New Zealand without experiencing its unspoiled natural landscapes and abundant wildlife. Home to limestone cliffs, blowholes and glaciers, the West Coast of the country is a must-visit for nature seekers.
At the top of the unmissable attractions list are the Pancake Rocks and blowholes in Punakaiki that date back to some 30 million years ago. Tip: check the tide times at the Department of Conservation visitor centre before dropping by – we hear the blowhole action will be the most impressive at high tide!
Other fascinating spots include the spectacular Arthur’s Pass National Park which offers breathtaking views of the Southern Alps and stunning hiking trails; as well as the historic town of Hokitika that’s surrounded by ancient kahikatea forests and is home to the Hokitika Gorge. If you’re visiting in winter, add the Franz Josef Glacier to your itinerary for a helicopter ride that’ll take you across stunning ice formations and crevasses.
4. East Coast: For a finer taste of life
Here’s a hot take: not all vacations have to be packed with non-stop things to do, see and eat. Sometimes all you need is a chance to sit back, relax and indulge in the finer things in life. From wineries galore to pristine beaches, the East Coast of New Zealand is calling out to those who prefer to take things slow.
Hawke’s Bay, one of the country’s most renowned wine regions, ranks high on the list. Blessed with top-quality soils and a climate for wine growing, here’s where you can find New Zealand’s best red wines, alongside epic scenery and gourmet food. Join one of the vineyard and wine tasting tours and let the vinos do the talking. Another underrated region on the map is Gisborne, featuring secluded beaches, surfing spots and sprawling vineyards.
5. Roam the country on a self-driving trip: For the free-spirited
Love the idea of travelling at your own pace and taking time to explore the nooks and crannies? Perhaps a self-driving adventure around New Zealand will be up your alley. This destination is not short of gorgeous road trip routes but for first-timers, we’d recommend starting from the North.
Begin your journey in the bustling city of Auckland that’s home to pristine blue waters and emerald islands, before making your way to Waitomo for stunning glowworm caves and scenic waterfalls, and Hobbiton for rolling green hills and iconic movie sets in the Hobbit.
Next on the list is Rotorua to immerse in Maori culture and marvel at fascinating geothermal landscapes, along with a scenic drive past Great Lake Taupo while on the way to Napier. Here’s where you’ll take a walk down history and explore the city’s unique Art Deco-style architecture. End your self-drive adventure at Wellington, New Zealand’s vibrant capital with shopping, arts, culture, culinary hotspots and scenic nature all around.
New Zealand: A breathtaking destination for all
No matter what kind of vacation you’re coveting, New Zealand’s diverse places to visit and attractions to see will have you sorted. Make trip planning easy-breezy with the pros from EU Holidays. Offering a variety of tour packages (including self-drive trips!), it’s your ticket to seeing the best of New Zealand while barely lifting a finger. Book your getaway with EU Holidays and we’ll see you on the other side!
This post is in partnership with EU Holidays.
