New Zealand is a land of stunning natural beauty and diverse landscapes, from snow-capped mountains to lush rainforests and sparkling beaches. Whether you're an adventure seeker or a nature lover, there's something for everyone in this incredible country. From the world-famous Milford Sound to the picturesque Bay of Islands, here are just a few of the top things to do in New Zealand that you won't want to miss. Explore the volcanic landscapes of Tongariro National Park, take a tour of the Hobbiton Movie Set, or ski in the beautiful alpine setting of Queenstown. Go on a Lord of the Rings tour, or visit the Waitomo Caves to witness the mesmerizing glowworms. No matter what your interests are, you're sure to find something to love in this breathtaking country.
1. Explore Milford Sound
Milford Sound is a fiord located in the southwest of New Zealand's South Island. It is known for its stunning natural beauty, including towering peaks and cascading waterfalls. Visitors can take a boat tour to fully experience the fiord's beauty.
2. Visit the Tongariro National Park
Tongariro National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site located on the North Island. It is known for its volcanic landscape, including the active volcano Mount Tongariro and the famous Tongariro Alpine Crossing hiking trail.
3. Visit the Hobbiton Movie Set
The Hobbiton Movie Set is a popular tourist destination located in the Waikato region of the North Island. It was used as a filming location for the Lord of the Rings and Hobbit movies and offers tours of the set and a chance to see the hobbit holes.
4. Take a Ski Trip to Queenstown
Queenstown is a popular destination for skiing and snowboarding in the winter months. It offers a variety of ski fields and is known for its beautiful alpine scenery.
5. Visit the Bay of Islands
The Bay of Islands is a popular tourist destination located on the North Island. It is known for its beautiful beaches, clear waters, and marine life, including dolphins and whales. Visitors can take boat tours to explore the bay.
6. Visit the Waitomo Caves
The Waitomo Caves are a series of limestone caves located on the North Island. They are known for their glowworm populations and offer guided tours, including underground boat rides.
7. Visit the Abel Tasman National Park
Abel Tasman National Park is located on the top of the South Island. It is known for its beautiful beaches, clear waters and the Abel Tasman Coast Track, a popular hiking trail.
8. Take a Lord of the Rings Tour
Lord of the Rings tours, offer visitors a chance to see the filming locations of the famous movie trilogy in various places all over New Zealand.
9. Visit the Cathedral Cove
Cathedral Cove is a natural archway and beach located on the Coromandel Peninsula on the North Island. It is known for its beautiful scenery and is a popular spot for swimming and snorkeling.
10. Visit the Sky Tower
The Sky Tower is a telecommunications and observation tower located in Auckland, the largest city of New Zealand. It offers views of the city and the surrounding area, and also features a SkyWalk, where visitors can walk around the perimeter of the tower's main observation deck.