Hi traveler’s, Explore the best things to do in New Zealand. Summer weather in New Zealand is warm, sunny, and great for travel. It consists of two main islands, North Island and South Island, and several smaller islands. I went to different places like mountains, lakes, rivers, etc. Wherever I went, nature cooled my mind, standing on the top of the mountain and observing the beautiful scenery, I felt my insignificance and the greatness of nature. Besides natural beauty, I also visited windy places like beaches and meadows.

I saw endless green with herds of cows and sheep in the meadows. This trip was truly extraordinary, reminding me to see nature up close and feel the power and nurture and protect the environment. I hope everyone gets a chance to see the beauty and wonder of New Zealand. Let’s take a look at the top tourist places in New Zealand.                                                  

Top 20 Things to Do in New Zealand

Here are the best things to do in New Zealand:

1. Bay Of Islands

#Top things to do in New Zealand

One of the best places things to do in New Zealand tourist attractions is the Bay of Islands. This was a very exciting place to visit Pearls of 144 islands adorn the necklace of the Bay of Islands. Kayak along the coast, hike island trails, enjoy secluded coves, and explore pristine forests. Fishing is popular here because of the abundance of marine life, which includes penguins, large marlin, dolphins, and whales. All of these together make the spot an ideal tourist destination in New Zealand. It is worth the visit because so many islands in this area are spectacular and give so many opportunities for adventure and touring!

Best Places in The Bay Of Islands

Here are some beautiful places in The Bay Of Islands:

Best places in The Bay Of Islands	Russell
	Paihia
	Kerikeri
	Haruru Falls
	Opua Forest
	Hokianga Harbour

Best Activities in The Bay Of Islands

Here are some activities in the Bay Of Islands:

How to travel The Bay Of Islands:

• By Air: From Auckland, you can take a domestic flight to Kerikeri Airport (KKE), which is about a 25-minute drive from Paihia, the main hub of the Bay of Islands.

• By Road: The Bay of Islands is about a 3-hour drive (230 km) from Auckland. Several companies, like InterCity and Northliner, offer daily services from Auckland to Paihia

Location: North Island of New Zealand.

2. Rotorua

#Best things to do in New Zealand

Rotorua is a geothermal area located on the North Island of New Zealand. It is a great place to visit. This place is very famous for its geothermal activity and Maori culture. You can see many bubbling mud pools and the 30 m-tall Pohutu Geyser, a volcanic crater. In the area, you can see Kiwi birds and see the art school of Maori artists and you have a lot to see in the surrounding area. I recommend the place for a trip no matter where you live. All these activities make it the best places to visit in New Zealand.

Best Places in Rotorua

Here are some beautiful places in Rotorua:

Best Activities in Rotorua

Here are some best activities in Rotorua:

How to travel Rotorua:

• By Air: From Auckland, you can take a domestic flight to Rotorua Airport, which is about a 45-minute from Rotorua. Rotorua can be reached by flights from major cities such as Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch.

• By Road: Rotorua is about a 3-hour drive (230 km) from Auckland. Several companies, like InterCity and Northliner, offer daily services from Auckland to Rotorua.

Location: North Island of New Zealand.

3. Auckland

#Kid-Friendly things to do in New Zealand

The biggest city in New Zealand has a beautiful blend of scenic beauty. There are lush rainforest parks and breathtaking beaches perfect for surfing and horseback riding up an ancient volcano, or the thrill of ziplining if you dare to try the base jump from the iconic Sky Tower. I think Auckland is a wine lover’s paradise and famous for dining. Hikers can immerse themselves in the beauty of cascading streams and pools, and don’t miss the park’s native bush adorned with giant tree ferns and giant tree ferns. Besides, you can do many other activities in Auckland.

Best Places in Auckland

Here are some beautiful places in Auckland:

Best Activities in Auckland

Here are some activities in Auckland:

How to travel Auckland:

• By Air: This is the primary gateway to Auckland and offers flights from numerous international destinations.

Location: North Island of New Zealand.

4.Tongariro National Park

#Amazing things to do in New Zealand

It is New Zealand’s oldest national park and is located halfway between the North Island. It is home to the active volcanic mountains Ruapehu, Ngauruhoe, and Tongariro. Tongariro National Park is a mixed UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its mix of culture and nature. You can visit several Maorian religious sites within the park. in the park, Volcanic activity has done wonders in the park’s 80,000 hectares.

As well as emerald lakes, smoking craters, lava flows, colorful silica terraces, and the views of the surrounding national park were absolutely breathtaking and left us awestruck by the beauty of nature. The beauty and diversity of the site are complemented by several spectacular waterfalls. This is why it is the best tings to do in New Zealand.

Best Place in Tongariro National Park

Here are some beautiful places in Rotorua:

Best Activities in Tongariro National Park

Here are some activities in Tongariro National Park:

How to travel Tongariro National Park:

• By Train: You can take a scenic train ride on the Northern Explorer from Auckland or Wellington to National Park Village, which is close to the park.

• By Road: Tongariro National Park is about a 4-5 hour drive (330 km) from Auckland and 190 kilometers from Wellington. National Park can be reached from major cities such as Auckland, Wellington, and Taupo.

Location: North Island of New Zealand

5. Fiordland National Park

#Natural things to do in New Zealand

Best national park I’ve seen and one of the best places in New Zealand. The landscapes and scenery are just magnificent. Nice mountains, fjords, forests, lakes, and a good spot to see the incredible Kea (and other birds). Fiordland National Park has been awarded as a World Heritage Area. Fiordland National Park in the South Island is the largest national park in the country. The views of the park are great. You can see the mirror lake and the shade of the overhanging trees is beautiful. The most impressive thing to me is the eye-catching colorful wings of the world’s only alpine parrot.

Best Places in Fiordland National Park

Here are some beautiful places in Fiordland National Park:

Best Activities in Fiordland National Park

Here are some activities in Fiordland National Park:

How to travel to Fiordland National Park:

• By Road: Fiordland National Park is about a 3-hour drive (156 km) from Queenstown. And Several companies, offer daily services from Queenstown to Fiordland National Park.

Location: South Island of New Zealand.

6. Abel Tasman National Park

#Top things to do in New Zealand

If you like hiking and beautiful beaches this is heaven for you. We think your best option is to visit the Abel Tasman National Park. Beautiful locations with golden sands and turquoise oceans can be found here. Kaiteriteri Beach, Awaroa Beach, and Torrent Bay really stand out this is why it is the best places in New Zealand. For those looking to hike, there are boats from Kaiteriteri that can drop you off at various points on the Abel Tasman, hike for the day reach another point, and board a boat to return. If you travel to this park, be sure to visit the Observation Beach Campsite.

Best Places in Abel Tasman National Park

Here are some beautiful places in Abel Tasman National Park:

Best Activities in Abel Tasman National Park

Here are some activities in Abel Tasman National Park:

How to travel Abel Tasman National Park:

• By Air: The nearest airport is Nelson Airport. From there, you can rent a car or bus. From Nelson to Abel Tasman National Park 60 km distance.

• By Road: Abel Tasman National Park is about a 2-hour drive from Nelson. And Several companies, offer daily services from Nelson to Marahau and Kaiteriteri.

Location: Northern coast of the South Island of New Zealand.

7. Aoraki / Mount Cook

#Best things to do in New Zealand

Mount Cook is amazing, one of the best places in the world. If you are a lover of heights then this destination is for you. Mount Hook is the highest mountain and the best places in New Zealand. To reach this peak you must visit Aoraki Mt Cook National Park. Close to these mountains, you can visit some beautiful lakes and the dramatic scenery with the snow-capped peaks reflected in the turquoise lake is breathtaking.

You will be truly mesmerized by the magnificent walks and stunning scenery. In winter and summer, the landscape changes a lot. Mount Cook has a long history of mountaineering and is a favorite destination for climbers. I consider Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park a must-see for any New Zealand visitor.

Best Places in Aoraki / Mount Cook

Here are some beautiful places in Aoraki / Mount Cook:

Best Activities in Aoraki / Mount Cook

Here are some activities in Aoraki / Mount Cook:

How to travel Aoraki / Mount Cook:

• By Air: The nearest airports are in Christchurch and Queenstown. From there, you can rent a car or bus.

• By Road: Aoraki / Mount Cook is about a 4-hour drive (330 km) from Christchurch and Aoraki / Mount Cook is about a 3-hour drive (260 km) from Queenstown. Several companies offer daily services from Christchurch and Queenstown to Mount Cook Village.

Location: South Island of New Zealand.

8. Queenstown

#Best things to do in New Zealand

South Island is truly incomplete without visiting the famous destination of Queenstown, known as the adventure capital of the world. Queenstown has something for everyone of all ages and all seasons. With skydiving, paragliding, white water rafting, jet boating, and of course, bungee jumping, Queenstown is the birthplace of the modern-day bungee, with adrenaline junkies flocking to try their hand at the resort town.

Built on the shores of Lake Wakatipu and surrounded by stunning mountain ranges, there are plenty of relaxation options for those looking for a slower pace, visitors can enjoy leisurely cruises to the nearby hot pools and indulge in a variety of other sports. No wonder Queenstown is one of the best things to do in New Zealand.

Best Place in Queenstown

Here are some of the beautiful places in Queenstown:

Best Activities in Queenstown

Here are some activities in Queenstown:

How to travel Queenstown:

• By Air: Queenstown has an airport with both domestic and international flights. It’s well-connected to major cities in New Zealand like Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch.

• By Road: Queenstown is about a 6-hour drive from Christchurch and Queenstown is about a 3-hour drive from Dunedin. Several companies offer daily services from major cities to Queenstown.

Location: South Island of New Zealand

9. Christchurch

#Top things to do in New Zealand

Visitors to the Southern Alps and the famous Canterbury Plains will be charmed by the charming atmosphere of a guided tour of architectural wonders, museums, boutique galleries, and cozy cafes and bars and one of the best places in New Zealand. Take in the summit station where you’ll get a clear view from the top of Mt Cavendish and take in breathtaking panoramic views of Christchurch Littleton Harbor and beyond. Learn about historic expeditions to the Antarctic Center fascinating wildlife glaciers and the future of Antarctica witness life at Scott Base. New Zealand’s mountain bike enthusiasts will be thrilled with the park’s bike trails and world-class jump tracks.

Best Places in Christchurch

Here are some beautiful places in Christchurch:

Best Activities in Christchurch

Here are some activities in Christchurch:

How to travel Christchurch:

• By Air: Christchurch International Airport (CHC) is the main gateway. It’s well-connected with domestic and international flights.

• By Road: Several companies offer daily services from major cities to Christchurch.

Location: South Island of New Zealand

10. Wellington

#Fun things to do in New Zealand

Wellington is New Zealand’s vibrant capital city with its sprawling harbor and bay city a unique mix of world-class museums and galleries in quaint surroundings. Cycle along the harbor’s waterfront or sunbathe on the golden sand beach. Enter the Red Cable Card at the Botanic Gardens and experience breathtaking views across the bay. Learn about Maui art and culture and explore the nation’s pre-colonial history through impressive full-size exhibits. Wellington is a place that offers you many things to see and do.

Best Places in Wellington

Here are some beautiful places in Wellington:

Best Activities in Wellington

Here are some activities in Wellington:

How to travel Wellington:

• By Air: Wellington Airport is the main gateway. It’s well-connected with domestic and international flights.

• By Road: Several companies offer daily services from major cities to Wellington.

Location: North Island of New Zealand

11. Milford Sound

#For nature lover’s best things to do in New Zealand

A visit to New Zealand would not be complete without seeing Milford Sound. Author Rudyard Kipling described this place as the eighth wonder of the world! This is why it is the most popular tourist destination in all of New Zealand. Milford Sound is a fiord in Fiordland National Park, in the southwest of New Zealand’s South Island. Milford Sound is breathtaking in any weather. Cliffs rise from the dark waters and mountain peaks touch the sky.

The best and most beautiful are the waterfalls up to 1000 meters. If it rains, the cascades multiply, and the beauty multiplies as well. You can explore the area by boat, go kayaking, dive, or take a helicopter flight. All in all, Milford Sound is without a doubt first on my list of the best places things to do in New Zealand. A must if you’re traveling to the South Island.

Best Places in Milford Sound

Here are some beautiful places in Milford Sound:

Best Activities in Milford Sound

Here are some activities in Milford Sound:

How to travel Milford Sound:

• By Air: From Queenstown, you can take a domestic flight to Milford Sound Airport which is about a 30-minute.

• By Road: The Milford Sound is about a 4-hour drive (290 km) from Queenstown. Several companies offer daily services from Queenstown to Milford Sound.

Location: Southwestern part of New Zealand in South Island.

12. Waiheke Island

#Things to do in New Zealand

Waiheke Island is a very beautiful island in New Zealand. 40 minutes by ferry from Auckland City or Devonport. There is plenty to see; Walk the coastal track to admire stunning views and deep blue waters, stop at Oneroa Beach to see dolphins, and catch a bus through the island to its many destinations including vineyards, archery, clay shooting, and historical museums. There are plenty of places and plenty of things to find something to eat throughout the day. Enjoy spending time with family with friends in this beautiful part of Auckland.

Best Places in Waiheke Island

Here are some beautiful places in Waiheke Island:

Best Activities in Waiheke Island

Here are some activities in Waiheke Island:

How to travel Waiheke Island:

• By Air: From Auckland, you can take a domestic flight to Waiheke Island, which is about a 20-minute journey.
• By Ferry: The most popular way is to take a ferry from Auckland. Ferries depart from the Auckland Ferry Terminal, and the journey takes about 35-40 minutes.

Location: North Island of New Zealand

13. Mount Aspiring National Park

#For hike lover’s best things to do in New Zealand

Mount Aspiring National Park in the Southern Alps of the South Island of New Zealand, north of Fiordland National Park, and between Otago and South Westland, is unbelievably beautiful! Mount Aspiring National Park its amazing sites make this Alpine region Stunning and huge national park spanning enough area to include mountain ranges, snow areas, lakes, glaciers, and hiking trails and one of the best place. Probably the most beautiful national park in the south island.

Everywhere you turn is another mountain and stunning scenery. There are many hiking trails to explore. Bring your camera because you won’t be able to resist taking photos everywhere you turn. I definitely recommend Mount Aspiring National Park for a nice, long vacation. You will want to stay for a week or two so you can take the time to search and explore every inch of this place!

Best Places in Mount Aspiring National Park

Here are some beautiful places in Mount Aspiring National Park:

Best Activities in Mount Aspiring National Park

Here are some activities in Mount Aspiring National Park:

How to travel Mount Aspiring National Park:

• By Air: Queenstown Airport closest major airport to Mount Aspiring National Park. From Queenstown, you can drive or take a bus to the park.

• By Road: Mount Aspiring National Park is about a 2-hour drive from Queenstown. Several companies offer daily services from Queenstown to Mount Aspiring National Park.

Location: South Island of New Zealand.

14. Napier

#Fun things to do in New Zealand

Feeling a bit like an affluent seaside town in England, Napier is a charming place to kick back and relax, with a romantic air about it, and one of the best place in New Zealand. With lovely 1930s facades and some delightful streets to explore, its gorgeous collection of art-deco buildings is interspersed with some gorgeous restaurants and atmospheric cafes. Napier has several gorgeous beaches nearby, as well as a great aquarium to check out. Outside the city, there are many things to do for travelers with amazing views and a variety of activities.

Best Places in Napier

Here are some beautiful places in Napier:

Best Activities in Napier

Here are some activities in Napier:

How to travel Napier:

• By Air: Napier has an airport with both domestic and international flights. It’s well-connected to major cities in New Zealand like Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch.

• By Road: Several companies offer daily services from major cities to Napier.

Location: North Island of New Zealand.

15. Dunedin

#Fun things to do in New Zealand

Dunedin is a scenic city and one of the best place in New Zealand, located at the head of Otago Harbor on the southeast coast of the South Island. Edwardian and Victorian-era structures are abundant. Strolling through the city center you can get up close and personal with this architecture. The Royal Albatross Center in Dunedin is home to the world’s only mainland-breeding albatross. colony, as well as sea lions, fur seals, and rare penguins. All of these animals can be found on the Otago Peninsula, which is why Dunedin is known as the wildlife capital of New Zealand. Hiking and cycling trails offer scenic views of the surrounding Otago Peninsula.

Best Places in Dunedin

Here are some beautiful places in Dunedin:

Best Activities in Dunedin

Here are some best Activities in Rotorua:

How to travel Dunedin:

• By Air: Dunedin International Airport has regular flights from major New Zealand cities such as Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch.

• By Road: Dunedin is about a 4-hour drive from Christchurch. Several companies offer daily services from Christchurch to Dunedin.

Location: South Island of New Zealand

16 Whakaari / White Island

#Nice things to do in New Zealand

White Island, also known as Walkari, is an active volcano off the coast of the North Island as well as one of the amazing place in New Zealand. It is truly an adventurous and dangerous destination, as it is one of the most active volcanoes in the world. White Island is an island about 50 kilometers from the coastal town of Whakatāne. The pilot was also our guide and took us along a precisely predetermined route to the side of the crater, where we all got to stay for a short time.

Sulfur vapor was only tolerable for a short time, even with a mask. On our way through the lunar landscape, we passed steaming chimneys, vibrant, colored (mostly yellow) sulfur formations, active steam nozzles, hot streams and finally arrived at the sulfur mining site, where we saw various ruins of the mine as well as machines and equipment that had been left behind. Standing on top of an active volcano is a special experience and its mesmerizing landscape will never be forgotten.

Best Places in Whakaari / White Island

Here are some beautiful places in Whakaari / White Island:

Best Activities in Whakaari / White Island

Here are some activities in Whakaari / White Island:

How to travel Whakaari / White Island:

• By Boat: Several tour companies offer boat trips to Whakaari / White Island from Whakatāne, which is the closest mainland town to the island.

• By Helicopter: Helicopter tours depart from various locations including Rotorua, Tauranga, and Whakatane, a quicker and more scenic way to reach Whakaari / White Island.

Location: North Island of New Zealand.

17. Waitomo Glowworm Caves

#Unique things to do in New Zealand

The Waitomo Glowworm Caves are a really neat place to stop. This cave is 1500 million years old. The first portion of the journey takes you through the breathtaking limestone caves; as photography is not permitted, you have to see them for yourself. There are a few spots where you get to see the glowworms, very cool. The caves were amazing but not at all what we expected! They were huge, with massive caverns that had ceilings that glowed like the stars!

We took the tour that included the boat ride through the cave. And it’s just a short walk to a large gift shop with a huge selection of beautiful handcrafted crafts from all over New Zealand. The best things to do in New Zealand. For so long, standing in a dark cave and feeling the stillness of the world was truly a wonderful experience. Of course you should confirm your ticket first.

Best Places in Waitomo Glowworm Caves

Here are some beautiful places in Waitomo Glowworm Caves:

Best Activities in Waitomo Glowworm Caves

Here are some activities in Waitomo Glowworm Caves:

How to travel Waitomo Glowworm Caves:

• By Road: Waitomo Glowworm Caves is about a 1-hour drive (80 km) from Hamilton. Several companies offer daily services from major cities and Waitomo.

Location: North Island of New Zealand.

18. Wanaka

#For sunrise lover’s best things to do in New Zealand

Wanaka is a beautiful little town on the South Island. In fact this is probably my favorite city that we visited during the whole trip and it is so beautiful it is right next to a lake and of course the famous Wan tree, a cool tree. The natural beauty of the snow-covered mountains and the lake is perfect for outdoor adventures and a relaxing and quiet environment. A short sunset walk from the parking lot in Wanaka’s downtown area is the most popular and one of the best things to do in New Zealand.

Best Places in Wanaka

Here are some beautiful places in Wanaka:

Best Activities in Wanaka

Here are some activities in Wanaka:

How to travel Wanaka:

• By Air: The nearest airport is Queenstown Airport, about an hour’s drive away. From there, you can rent a car or Bus.

• By Road: Wanaka is about a 1-hour drive from Queenstown. Several companies offer daily services from major cities to Wanaka.

Location: South Island of New Zealand.

19. Fox And Franz Josef Glaciers

#Famous things to do in New Zealand

You can’t miss this wonder of nature, the region is famous for visiting the most accessible glaciers in the entire world. The Fox Glacier descends through the Southern Alps in a temperate river forest, only 300 meters above sea level. Don’t settle for a close-up view of this glacier. Join an ice hiking adventure and explore the whole place. Close to Fox Glacier is Lake Matheson, one of the best hiking places in New Zealand.

Situated on the west coast of South Island in Westland National Park, the 12-kilometer-long Franz Josef Glacier. This great river of ice also descends from the heights of the forest. You can take a guided hike to the Franz Josef Glacier. However, if you don’t fancy a hike, you can take a helicopter tour. The area around the two glaciers is listed as a World Heritage Site.

Best Places in Fox And Franz Josef Glaciers

Here are some beautiful places in Fox And Franz Josef Glaciers:

Best Activities in Fox And Franz Josef Glaciers

Here are some activities in Fox And Franz Josef Glaciers:

How to travel Fox And Franz Josef Glaciers:

• By Helicopter: Helicopter tours depart from various locations including Queenstown, Christchurch, and major cities, a quicker and more scenic way to reach Fox And Franz Josef Glaciers.

• By Road: Fox And Franz Josef Glaciers is about a 4-5 hour drive (330 km) from Queenstown. Several companies offer daily services from major cities to Fox And Franz Josef Glaciers.

Location: West Coast, North Island of New Zealand.

20. Cathedral Cove Beach

#Hiden things to do in New Zealand

Cathedral Cove is one of the fun places in New Zealand. It’s located on the Coromandel Peninsula. To get to Cathedral Cove, you can either hike or take a water taxi. The hiking path was closed when we were there, so we took the water taxi, which is located on Hahei Beach. The water taxi was this carbo hybrid that could go up to the beach. The boat was beautiful, and in the cove, there were these unique white rock cliffs.

We went around the Booted Te Hoho Rock, which is the crowning feature of the area and possibly the most iconic rock in New Zealand. The water taxi then drops you off on the beach, and you can explore it for about an hour before they return. The area is amazing; there’s an archway that gives you the famous view of Te Hoho Rock. We had a great time just enjoying the beach and the area, and I understand why it’s one of the most famous spots. If you love the beach then this should be the best destination for you.

Best Places in Cathedral Cove Beach

Here are some beautiful places in Cathedral Cove Beach:

Best Activities in Cathedral Cove Beach

Here are some activities in Cathedral Cove Beach:

How to travel Cathedral Cove Beach:

• By Road: Cathedral Cove Beach is about a 3-hour drive from Auckland. Several companies offer daily services from Auckland to Cathedral Cove Beach.

Location: North Island of New Zealand.

After all, I know you loves to travel. So whether you are traveling to New Zealand or thinking of traveling in the future, then my Complete Travel Guide to the best things to do in New Zealand Travel Experiences will give you some of your New Zealand travel ideas. Also, stay tuned to ‘Tale of Journey’ for more travel tips like this or a complete travel guide. Be sure to let me know how your trip to New Zealand went. Have a nice trip.

Happy Travel!