New Zealand is home to some of the most picture-perfect landscapes in the world. From snow-capped mountains to blue beaches, you will be mesmerized by the scenic beauty of this country.
While you are here, you can also indulge in some gastronomic experiences that will surely make your trip to New Zealand even more memorable.
1. Akaroa
The town of Akaroa is a charming harbourside village on the Banks Peninsula, southeast of Christchurch. Akaroa is renowned for its historic French and British colonial architecture.
Akaroa is a wonderful place to visit and explore during your trip to New Zealand. With its charming atmosphere, quaint streets and restaurants, this seaside town is sure to delight your senses.
2. Bay of Islands
The Bay of Islands is a stunning holiday destination in subtropical Northland that's filled with idyllic islands, golden beaches, rolling green hills, and native forest rich in birds. It also boasts a large number of must-see tourist attractions that should not be missed by any traveler visiting New Zealand.
Paihia and Russell are the main tourist hubs of the area, offering a variety of boat cruises, sailing trips, passenger ferries and adventure activities. These towns are the perfect base from which to explore the rest of the Bay of Islands region.
3. Nelson
Nelson has a year-round temperate climate, making it the perfect place to spend your vacation. The city's vibrant cultural scene attracts travelers from around the world and is home to some of New Zealand's finest art galleries.
It's also known for its delicious blend of restaurants, wineries, and farmer's markets. You'll be spoilt for choice with a plethora of options for foodies, while the outdoorsy crowd can get their fix of kayaking and sandboarding.
4. Wanaka
Wanaka is one of New Zealand's top ski resort towns and is surrounded by snow-capped mountains. It's also the gateway to the magnificent Mount Aspiring National Park with glaciers, beech forests and alpine lakes.
During the winter, Wanaka is the hub for skiing and snowboarding at Cardrona, Treble Cone and Snow Farm ski fields. There are plenty of other winter activities like ice-climbing, cross-country skiing and heli-skiing.
5. Queenstown
Queenstown is a naturally stunning destination, home to some of New Zealand's most unique outdoor experiences. From skiing and kayaking on the lake to sky diving, bungy jumping, canyon swinging and more, this is a destination that caters to every kind of thrill seeker.
The town sits on the shore of Lake Wakatipu among dramatic alpine ranges. It's a place where winter is crisp and blue, spring blooms into longer, warmer days, summer offers sunshine and long twilights and autumn is a burst of brilliant red and gold.
6. Rotorua
Rotorua is home to some of the most active geothermal zones in the country and is surrounded by bubbling hot springs and steaming geysers. But it is also a place to learn about Maori culture, experience native wildlife and walk around stunning lakes.
Rotorua has a plethora of adrenaline-pumping activities, from white water rafting to jet boating and bungy jumping. But if you're looking to soak up the atmosphere, head to a geothermal park for a dip in mud pools and a view of colorful sulphur formations and geysers.
7. Waitomo Caves
The caves of Waitomo on New Zealand's North Island are one of the country's most fascinating natural wonders. Thousands of glowworms make their home here, creating a bluish-green luminescence that's hard to miss day or night.
The best way to explore this amazing site is by taking a guided tour. They'll take you through the main sections of the cave, which are linked by a large 16-meter vertical shaft called a tomo (pronounced 'tomo').
8. Waiheke Island
Waiheke Island is a popular summer destination for New Zealanders and visitors alike, offering pristine beaches, world-class wines, and a thriving arts scene. A short ferry journey from Auckland, the island offers a chance to escape the city and experience a slice of New Zealand paradise.
With a wide range of boutique wineries and vineyards, many with tasting rooms and swanky restaurants, Waiheke is a must-visit for foodies. With a strong tradition of local art, it also boasts quirky galleries and craft shops.
9. Oneroa Beach
If you're looking for a perfect beach to relax and soak up some sun, Oneroa Beach is the place to go. It's located in the center of Oneroa Village and offers beautiful white sands, safe all-tide swimming, and plenty of cafes and restaurants to visit.
The beach is a short walk from the centre of Oneroa and boasts breathtaking views over the ocean and towards Coromandel Peninsula in the distance. It's one of the most popular beaches on Waiheke Island and is a great spot for families to enjoy the outdoors.
