New Zealand, a country crafted by nature with surreal beauty, is a treasure trove of staggering natural wonders. From snow-capped peaks, sparkling coves, coastal glaciers, rain forests, fjords, to fish-filled rivers, it offers a plethora of breathtaking sights to explore. This article will take you on a journey through the top 20 places to visit in New Zealand, delving into their history, unique features, and the special food or drinks they offer.
Fiordland National Park and Milford Sound, South Island
A World Heritage Site, Fiordland National Park protects some of the most spectacular scenery in the country. Glaciers sculpted this dramatic landscape, carving the famous fjords of Milford, Dusky, and Doubtful Sounds. The park is a haven for hikers and sea kayaking is a popular way to explore the fjords.
Bay of Islands, North Island
Embarking on a journey to the top 20 places in New Zealand, one cannot miss the Bay of Islands. A mere three-hour drive from Auckland transports you to this stunning vacation hotspot. The bay is a sparkling jewel, adorned with over 144 islands, making it a paradise for sailing and yachting enthusiasts. The charming towns of Russell, Opua, Paihia, and Kerikeri serve as perfect bases for exploring the bay. Each town has its own unique charm and offers a different perspective of the bay’s beauty. So, whether you’re a seasoned sailor or a land-lover, the Bay of Islands is a must-visit on your New Zealand itinerary.
Queenstown, South Island
Queenstown, nestled between the radiant Lake Wakatipu and the snow-capped Remarkables, holds the title of New Zealand’s adventure hub. It’s a key destination on our list of ‘Top 20 places in New Zealand’. The city offers a plethora of adrenaline-pumping activities. You can dive into bungee jumping, jet boating, or white water rafting. If you’re a fan of heights, try paragliding or rock climbing. For the land lovers, mountain biking and downhill skiing are available. Each activity offers a unique way to experience Queenstown’s stunning alpine scenery.
Lake Taupo and Tongariro National Park, North Island
In the center of the North Island lies Tongariro National Park, a dual World Heritage Site due to its spectacular volcanic features and its importance to the Maori culture. The park is a land of dramatic beauty, with towering volcanoes, turquoise lakes, arid plateaus, alpine meadows, and hot springs.
Rotorua, North Island
On the tumultuous Pacific Ring of Fire, Rotorua is one of the most active geothermal regions in the world. This is a land where the earth speaks. Boiling mud pools, hissing geysers, volcanic craters, and steaming thermal springs betray the forces that birthed much of New Zealand’s dramatic topography.
Fox and Franz Josef Glaciers, South Island
Franz Josef and Fox glaciers, nestled in the stunning Westland Tai Poutini National Park, are among the world’s most accessible glaciers. These icy rivers flow from the towering peaks of the Southern Alps, descending to nearly sea level. This unique geographical feature sets them apart, making them a must-visit in New Zealand.
Abel Tasman National Park & the Abel Tasman Coast Track, South Island
The Abel Tasman Coast Track in Abel Tasman National Park is one of New Zealand’s Great Walks. Winding along sparkling Tasman Bay, this scenic 51-kilometer hike lies in one of the sunniest regions of the South Island.
Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, South Island
Situated in the heart of the Southern Alps, Aoraki National Park, also known as Mount Cook National Park, is home to New Zealand’s highest peaks. This park is unique, with over 40 percent of its area covered in glaciers. Aoraki/Mount Cook, the country’s tallest mountain, and the Tasman Glacier, the longest glacier, are both located within the park’s boundaries.
Napier, Hawke’s Bay, North Island
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.
Auckland, North Island
Blessed with two sparkling harbors, Auckland, the “City of Sails,” is New Zealand’s largest city and the most populous Polynesian city in the world. Blond- and black-sand beaches, rain forest hiking trails, picturesque coves, islands, and volcanoes surround the city, making it a perfect base for day trips and wilderness adventures.
Coromandel Peninsula, North Island
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.
Kaikoura, South Island
Birders, wildlife enthusiasts, and seafood aficionados will love the charming coastal village of Kaikoura. Tucked between the Seaward Kaikoura Range and the Pacific Ocean, Kaikoura offers excellent coastal hikes and popular whale watching tours.
Wellington, North Island
The capital city of New Zealand, Wellington, is nestled around a harbour and surrounded by hills. The city is known for its art, culture, and native beauty. Don’t miss the Te Papa Tongarewa Museum, a highly interactive and visual museum that showcases New Zealand’s significant collections.
Waiheke Island, Auckland
Just a 35-minute ferry ride from downtown Auckland, Waiheke Island is a tranquil, beautiful oasis with a micro-climate that produces excellent wines. The island is also home to many artists and craftspeople, who have opened their studios to visitors.
Waitomo Caves, North Island
The Waitomo Caves are one of New Zealand’s top tourist attractions, located just outside the main Waitomo township. It’s here that you can see the famous glowworms of New Zealand, which light up the caves and create a magical environment.
Hobbiton, Matamata, North Island
For fans of the Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit trilogies, Hobbiton is a must-visit. The movie set still stands and has been turned into a tourist attraction, with guided tours available.
Te Anau, South Island
Te Anau is the gateway to the Fiordland National Park and is the closest town to Milford Sound. It’s also home to the beautiful Lake Te Anau, the largest lake in the South Island and the second-largest in New Zealand.
Dunedin, South Island
Known as the Edinburgh of New Zealand, Dunedin wears its Scottish heritage with pride. The city contains some of the best-preserved Victorian and Edwardian architecture in the Southern Hemisphere.
Whakarewarewa, North Island
This living Maori village located in Rotorua is home to the Tuhourangi/Ngati Wahiao people, who continue to live in harmony with the geothermal landscape as their ancestors did. Here you can experience a traditional Maori hangi meal, cooked in the steaming ground, and see the famous Pohutu geyser.
Nelson, South Island
Known for its stunning natural landscapes, Nelson is home to three national parks, beautiful beaches, and a thriving local arts scene. It’s also a popular base for those who want to explore the nearby wine regions, art galleries, and craft studios.
New Zealand, a land of diverse landscapes and cultures, offers a wealth of experiences for travellers. From the stunning natural beauty of Fiordland National Park and Abel Tasman National Park to the cultural experiences of Rotorua and Whakarewarewa, there is something for everyone. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or a foodie, these top 20 places in New Zealand offer a unique insight into the country’s rich heritage and gastronomy. So, pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable Kiwi adventure!
