New Zealand offers an incredible mix of attractions and activities that showcase its natural beauty, vibrant culture, and dramatic landscapes. From glowworm-lit caves to charming cities, it has something to offer every kind of traveller. Here are just some of the top attractions and activities you can experience in New Zealand.
Travel on the TranzAlpine train
For sheer scenic beauty, few experiences can match the TranzAlpine train. This iconic route takes you across the South Island’s jaw-dropping landscapes. Highlights include the soaring peaks of Arthur’s Pass National Park, lush valleys, and winding rivers; all seen in comfort through panoramic viewing windows.
Discover Queenstown and its surroundings,
Surrounded by dramatic alpine peaks and nestled beside Lake Wakatipu, Queenstown is one of New Zealand’s most iconic destinations. With its striking natural backdrop and vibrant atmosphere, it offers a perfect balance of relaxation and discovery.
Top highlights of Queenstown include:
Arrowtown - This charming former gold rush village is full of character, with heritage buildings, tree-lined streets, and boutique shops to explore. The drive there is a treat in itself, passing the tranquil Lake Hayes and the dramatic Shotover River.
Central Otago Wine Region - A visit to this renowned wine region is a must for wine lovers. Sample award-winning pinot noir and crisp whites at a local vineyard while soaking up views of rolling hills and vine-covered landscapes.
Bob’s Peak and The Remarkables - Take a scenic gondola ride up to Bob’s Peak for incredible panoramic views over Queenstown, Lake Wakatipu and the Remarkables mountain range — a dramatic backdrop that fans of The Lord of the Rings might recognise.
Lake Wakatipu - A cruise across Lake Wakatipu is a calm and scenic way to take in the beauty of the area and soak up the peaceful, rural atmosphere.
Soak up the beauty of Lake Tekapo
Lake Tekapo is one of the most striking examples of New Zealand’s natural beauty. Its vivid turquoise waters, framed by soaring alpine peaks, make it one of the most photographed spots in the country. Adding to its charm is the picturesque Church of the Good Shepherd, quietly nestled on the lake’s edge.
Experience the geothermal activity of Rotorua
Rotorua is one of the most remarkable places to experience geothermal activity up close. Steam rises from the ground, mud pools bubble away, and geysers occasionally erupt, creating a landscape that feels both unusual and quietly captivating. Among these natural wonders, the Pohutu Geyser is particularly impressive, shooting up to 30 metres into the air and erupting as often as 20 times each day in a truly spectacular display.
Learn more about Māori culture in Rotorua
Rotorua is one of the best places in New Zealand to connect with Māori culture. A visit to the New Zealand Māori Arts and Crafts Institute at Te Puia adds even more depth, it’s a centre dedicated to preserving and teaching traditional skills like wood carving, weaving, and tattooing. It’s a meaningful way to understand the living heritage of Aotearoa.
Explore the gardens of Hamilton
The Hamilton Gardens is unlike any garden you’ve ever visited. Rather than focusing solely on plants, each garden is designed as a cultural experience, telling stories through landscape and design. You might find yourself moving from the calm of a Japanese zen garden to the vibrant patterns of a Mughal-style Char Bagh. This award-winning attraction has a surprising history, having been developed on the site of a former rubbish dump. Today, it reflects a strong commitment to sustainability, thoughtfully transforming the space into a place of cultural and horticultural significance.
Visit the Ruakuri Caves in Waitomo
The Ruakuri Caves in Waitomo offer a truly magical experience. Famous for glowworms that illuminate the ceilings with a soft, otherworldly light, the caves also feature winding walkways, striking limestone formations, and hidden waterfalls. Among the highlights are the impressive stalactites and stalagmites — delicate mineral formations that have taken thousands of years to develop, adding to the cave’s awe-inspiring atmosphere. It’s one of New Zealand’s most unique and memorable natural attractions.
See the top sights in Auckland
Known as the 'City of Sails', Auckland offers a great mix of things to see and do, from exploring its busy harbour and dining along the waterfront to enjoying panoramic views from Bastion Point. Highlights around the city include the Sky Tower, where you can take in sweeping views of the skyline and harbour, and Auckland War Memorial Museum, which offers a deep dive into New Zealand’s history and Māori heritage. For a dose of nature, stroll through the Auckland Domain or relax in one of the city's many green spaces.
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