New Zealand is a beautiful island country with many amazing landscapes for tourists. There are a lot of activities for tourist to enjoy here, too. Let’s explore this country and discover best places to visit in New Zealand.
1. Bay of Islands
The beautiful Bay of Islands is one of the most popular vacation destinations in the country. It takes about 3 hours drive to North Auckland. It will be a heaven for sailing and yatching. Penguins, dolphins, whales, and marlin live in these fertile waters, and the region is a popular sport fishing spot. Visitors can sea kayak along the coast, hike the many island trails, bask in secluded coves and explore sub-tropical forests where Kauri trees grow.
2. Auckland
No matter where you stay in Auckland you will be close to something interesting. Try the accommodations at CityLife Auckland, which is within walking distance of several Auckland highlights like the harbor, both North and Princes Wharf, and the SkyTower.
3. Waiheke Island
Waiheke Island is the most populated and second-largest island in the Hauraki Gulf of New Zealand. Waiheke is a haven of beautiful vineyards, olive groves and beaches, all just a 40-minute ferry ride from downtown Auckland. The white sandy beaches at Oneroa, Palm Beach and Onetangi slope gently down into the Hauraki Gulf and are perfect for swimming, kayaking, or having a picnic.
4. Christchurch
Christchurch is the largest city in the South Island of New Zealand and the seat of the Canterbury Region. This is is one of the world’s most unique destinations, combining urban regeneration and innovation with heritage, culture and exhilarating activity.
5. White Island
White Island (Whakaari) is the perfect example of an active volcano. It breathes, it roars and it hisses from steaming vents releasing 800°C toxic gases. From Whakatane, Rotorua and Tauranga you can arrange a walking tour of the island, which leads right into the huge main crater. Hard hats and gas masks are provided for the tour – it’s an extraordinary experience.
7. Te Whakarewarewa Geothermal Valley
Mountain bike, run or hike on purpose-built trails in a spectacular forest only five minutes south of downtown Rotorua. Whakarewarewa Forest is a playground for mountain bikers, walkers, hikers and horse riders set amongst magnificent stands of towering Californian Redwoords, lush native forest and exotic trees.
8. Waitomo Glowworm Caves
The Waitomo Glowworm Caves, naturally illuminated by thousands of glowworms, are among the most unique places to go in New Zealand. World renowned and a magnet for both local and overseas visitors, the Waitomo Glowworm Caves occupy a high placing in the New Zealand vacation wish-list.
9. Franz Josef Glacier
The hospitable town of Franz Josef serves the glacier of the same name. Stay here while you explore this spectacular World Heritage Area. If you want to actually make contact with the glacier, take a guided ice walk or a heli-hike. Aerial sightseeing is another option.
There’s a range of natural attractions in close proximity to Franz Josef Glacier Village. Lose yourself in the rainforests, waterfalls, and lakes.
10. Tongariro National Park
Tongariro is New Zealand’s oldest national park and a dual World Heritage area. This is home to some of New Zealand’s most dramatic landscapes.It is a spectacular showcase of volcanic wonders including emerald lakes, old lava flows, steaming craters, colourful silica terraces and peculiar alpine gardens. It is an environment of staggering beauty and diversity.