New Zealand Travel Guide
New Zealand is one of our favorite countries in the world. Why? Because New Zealand has the perfect mix of breathtaking landscapes, adventure activities, beautiful cities, wine regions, stunning beaches, amazing drives, and gourmet food. This is the land of fiords, hiking trails, bungy jumping, sheep, glowworms, and glaciers. Lord of the Rings and Hobbit fans journey here to tour Middle Earth. For those in search of epic adventures and scenery that is so gorgeous it is hard to believe it is real, come to New Zealand. This is a country that will live up to your expectations…it did for us!
Things To Do in New Zealand
New Zealand Bucket List: 50 Epic Things to Do in New Zealand
New Zealand is the perfect mix of awe-inspiring landscapes, thrilling adventures, beautiful cities, world-renowned wine regions, stunning beaches, scenic drives, and gourmet cuisine. Here are 50 things to see and do in New Zealand.
New Zealand Itineraries
On this New Zealand itinerary, you can road trip through one of the most beautiful countries in the world. Along the way, go hiking, test your wits and go bungy jumping, go wine tasting, and much, much more.
One of the best ways to tour New Zealand is from behind the wheel of a car (or a campervan). This itinerary is designed as a 3 week road trip, starting in Auckland on the North Island and ending at Queenstown on the South Island.
New Zealand Itinerary: 3 Week North & South Island Road Trip
If you have one week on the South Island of New Zealand, there are several different ways to plan your time. Whether you want to go hiking in Wanaka, visit the Milford Sound, see Aoraki/Mount Cook from the land and the sky, or spend your days engaging in all of the heart-pounding activities Queenstown has to offer, we have four great suggestions for you.
One Week on the South Island of New Zealand: 4 Ways to Plan Your Trip
With 10 days on the South Island of New Zealand, you have just enough time to visit several top spots. Queenstown, Wanaka, the Milford Sound, and seeing Aoraki / Mount Cook (New Zealand’s tallest mountain) all top the list, but you also have the option to add on the Southern Scenic Route, Akaroa, Abel Tasman, and the Marlborough wine region.
10 Day South Island New Zealand Itinerary: 4 Different Ways
Here are 3 different ways to plan a 2 week South Island road trip itinerary, visiting the highlights and a few hidden gems. Travel point-to-point between Queenstown and the Cook Strait (perfect for those who also have plans to visit the North Island) or make a loop, driving the Southern Scenic Route.
Two Week South Island New Zealand Itinerary: 3 Road Trip Routes
Cruise the Milford Sound, hike Roy’s Peak in Wanaka, go kayaking in Abel Tasman, spend a few days in Queenstown, drive the Southern Scenic Route, go wine tasting in Marlborough and Central Otago, soar over the glaciers from Franz Josef, and go on one of best road trips in the world. On this 3-week New Zealand South Island itinerary, visit the highlights of the South Island, plus a few hidden gems.
The Ultimate 3 Week New Zealand South Island Itinerary
Here are 5 different ways to plan a trip to the North Island, ranging from 5 days to 2 weeks. Visit popular spots such as Auckland, Wellington, and Hobbiton, or venture off the beaten path to Northland, New Zealand. Many of these can be easily combined with our South Island itineraries to create an epic road trip through New Zealand.
New Zealand North Island Itinerary: Options for 5 Days to 2 Weeks
North Island of New Zealand
There are plenty of places to go to keep you busy on the North Island. Spend some time in Auckland and Wellington, explore the fairytale world of Hobbiton, visit the hot springs and forests around Rotorua, and if you like hiking, don’t miss the Tongariro Alpine Crossing…it is one of the best day hikes in the world.
30 Amazing Things to Do on the North Island of New Zealand
Cruise the Bay of Islands, go blackwater rafting, spend a day on beautiful Waiheke Island, go sandboarding, hike the spectacular Tongariro Alpine Crossing, see glowworms and kiwi birds, visit Hobbiton, and explore the geothermal areas around Rotorua and Taupo…these are all things to do on the North Island of New Zealand.
Ten Fun Things To Do with Kids on the North Island of New Zealand
Here are 10 fun things to do on the North Island with kids…perfect for families planning a memorable trip to New Zealand.
Northland
This is the northernmost region in New Zealand. It’s called the Winterless North because of its mild climate all year. Whangārei is this region’s largest city.
In Northland, you will find the Bay of Islands, Paihia, Kerikeri, Russell, Cape Reinga, and Ninety Mile Beach. Northland is also home to New Zealand’s largest tree, Tāne Mahuta.
Northland, New Zealand: Cape Reinga & the Twin Coast Discovery Highway
Journey to the top of New Zealand and explore Northland, one of the least inhabited areas of this country. Climb giant sand dunes, cruise through the Bay of Islands, see the largest trees in the country, learn about the Treaty of Waitangi, and drive on the longest beach in New Zealand…these are all things to […]
Best Things to Do in Paihia, New Zealand: Gateway to the Bay of Islands
The small town of Paihia is known as the gateway to the Bay of Islands. One of the best things to do in Paihia is to take a boat tour of the Bay of Islands, but you can also visit the historic Waitangi Treaty Grounds, go wine tasting, go skydiving, spend some time in the […]
How to Visit the Bay of Islands | Things to Do & Best Tours
The Bay of Islands is a popular stop when exploring New Zealand’s North Island. Located near Paihia, and consisting of 144 islands, the Bay of Islands is known for its beautiful blue water, dramatic shorelines, and picturesque coves. The best way to experience the Bay of Islands is via a boat or helicopter tour. There […]
Auckland
The Auckland region is the most populated region in New Zealand. It gets its name for the city of Auckland but also includes the Waitākere Ranges (a series of stunning beaches on the west coast) and the Hauraki Gulf.
Auckland Itinerary: Best Way to Spend 1, 2 & 3 Days in Auckland
Stroll through Viaduct Harbour, enjoy the view from the Sky Tower, day trip to Waiheke or Rangitoto Islands, go whale watching, and day trip to the Waitakere Ranges…these are just some of the things you can do in Auckland. If you are planning your Auckland itinerary, the biggest factor in planning your visit here is […]
Auckland Bucket List: 20 Best Things to Do in Auckland, New Zealand
Auckland is the largest city in New Zealand and one of the largest cities in Oceania. With its beautiful setting on the Hauraki Gulf, its parks and walking trails, vibrant food and wine scene, and endless day trip options, the list of things to do in Auckland is relatively long. In this guide, we list […]
Waiheke Island Day Trip: Things to Do & One Day Itinerary
Taking a day trip to Waiheke Island is one of the best things to do in Auckland, New Zealand. This small island is home to long stretches of beautiful beaches and coastlines, olive oil and gin distilleries, hiking trails, and restaurants. But for many people, the biggest draw are the wineries. Waiheke Island is covered […]
Waikato & The Bay of Plenty
Waikato sits to the south of Auckland and is bordered by two more regions, the Bay of Plenty and Manawatu-Whanganui. Within these three regions are Hamilton, Matamata, Hobbiton, the Waitomo Caves, the Coromandel Peninsula, Rotorua, Taupō, and the amazing Tongariro Alpine Crossing (which also runs through the Manawatu-Whanganui region).
Tongariro Alpine Crossing, A Step-By-Step Guide to New Zealand’s Best Day Hike
The Tongariro Alpine Crossing is often labeled as the world’s greatest single day hike. Located on the North Island of New Zealand, the volcanic terrain of Tongariro National Park breaks up the lush, green scenery that is so prevalent in this country. Here is your chance to hike in the shadow of Mt. Doom (Mount […]
Photo Tour of the Hobbiton Movie Set
What is the cutest little spot in New Zealand? The answer is Hobbiton, the movie set for The Shire in both The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit trilogies. What is Hobbiton? Hobbiton was constructed in 1999 for the filming of the Lord of the Rings trilogy. It was used for just several weeks […]
Waitomo Caves: Glowworms, Blackwater Rafting & the Best Tours
The Waitomo caves are an underground fantasyland on the North Island of New Zealand. Ooh and aah at the stalactites and stalagmites that have been slowly growing over millennia. Go on an adventure and raft through these dark caves. And of course, the main reason for visiting the Waitomo caves, gaze up at the glowworms, […]
20 Amazing Things to Do in Taupō (+ Map, Photos & Tips)
Sitting on the shores of the largest freshwater lake in New Zealand is the small town of Taupō. Cruising the lake, mountain biking, hiking, skydiving, and jet boat riding top the list of things to do in Taupō. There are also geothermal areas to explore, thermal pools and spas to visit, and waterfalls to photograph. […]
Cathedral Cove Boat Tour | Coromandel Peninsula, New Zealand
Cathedral Cove is one of the top attractions on the North Island of New Zealand. To get here, you have several options. You can get here by boat, by kayak, or on your own two feet. We took a cruise with Hahei Explorer to see Cathedral Cove. During our visit, which was in April 2023, […]
20 Wonderful Things to Do in Rotorua, New Zealand
Relax in a natural hot spring, walk amongst towering redwoods, experience a traditional hāngī dinner, see geysers and bubbling mud pots, and roll downhill in an inflatable ball…these are all things to do in Rotorua, New Zealand. Rotorua is well known for its geothermal activity. Geysers, hot springs, and mud pools are located in and […]
Wellington
Wellington is the southernmost portion of the North Island. This region gets its name for the city of Wellington and here you can also visit the Martinborough wine region and the Kapiti Coast. From Wellington, cross the Cook Strait by ferry to reach the South Island.
Top 10 Things to Do in Wellington, New Zealand
Wellington is a beautiful city on the North Island of New Zealand. It is packed with fabulous bars, restaurants, coffee shops, and breweries. Walking the waterfront is a must-do, as is visiting Te Papa and riding the historic cable car. In this guide, we list 10 of the best things to do in Wellington plus where to eat and where to stay.
South Island of New Zealand
The South Island of New Zealand is home to some of the most beautiful landscapes in the world. Visiting Queenstown is a must, but you can also visit Wanaka, Aoraki / Mt. Cook National Park, Christchurch, Abel Tasman National Park, the Marlborough Wine Region, and the Milford Sound.
40 EPIC Things to Do on the South Island of New Zealand
Whether you prefer to go on scenic drives and explore the South Island’s long list of charming towns or prefer to add more adventure to your trip with multi-day treks, bungy jumpint, and scenic helicopter flights, there is plenty to keep you busy on the South Island.
In this guide, we list 40 of the best things to do on the South Island…have fun picking out your favorites!
Southern Scenic Route of New Zealand: Things to Do, Map, Itinerary
The Southern Scenic Route is a 600+ kilometer driving route that connects Dunedin, Invercargill, Te Anau, and Queenstown, New Zealand. It is a gorgeous drive, and along the way you are treated to some of the most spectacular scenery in the country.
Marlborough
The Marlborough region of New Zealand is located on the northern part of the South Island. If you cross the Cook Strait by ferry from Wellington, you will cruise through the Queen Charlotte Sound to Picton. From here, it is a short drive to Blenheim and New Zealand’s largest wine region, the Marlborough wine region.
Wine Tasting in Marlborough, New Zealand: Best Vineyards & Tours
The Marlborough wine region is the largest wine region in New Zealand. This region produces some of the best Sauvignon Blanc in the world, along with Riesling, Gewürtztraminer, Chardonnay, and Pinot Gris. For wine aficionados, spending a day or two wine tasting in Marlborough is one of New Zealand’s best experiences.
Tasman
The Tasman region also sits on the northern end of the South Island. Tasman Bay and the nearby national park gets its name for Abel Tasman, a Dutch explorer and merchant. This small region is home to three national parks: Abel Tasman, Nelson Lakes, and Kahurangi.
One Day in Abel Tasman National Park
Abel Tasman National Park is New Zealand’s smallest park. Located on the northern coastline of the South Island, Abel Tasman is home to one of New Zealand’s multi-day walking tracks, aptly named the Abel Tasman Coast Track. This is also a great place for kayaking, exploring the wide, empty beaches, and walking on trails amidst a rainforest-type landscape.
Canterbury
Canterbury is the largest region in New Zealand. It covers a long portion of the South Island’s east coast and stretches inland to the Southern Alps.
Christchurch is the largest city in this region and the South Island. In Canterbury, you can also visit Akaroa and the Banks Peninsula, Kaikoura (a great place to take a cruise to see dolphins), Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park, and beautiful Lake Tekapo.
15 Amazing Things to Do in Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park
Aoraki / Mount Cook is the tallest mountain in New Zealand. Getting a glimpse of this mighty mountain is one of the best things to do on the South Island. Top things to do at Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park include hiking to viewpoints of Mount Cook and iceberg filled alpine lakes, taking a […]
16 Amazing Things to Do in Christchurch, New Zealand
Christchurch is the largest city on the South Island of New Zealand. A series of devastating earthquakes rattled the city in 2010 and 2011, and these events have left their mark on the city. Learning about these earthquakes is one of most popular things to do in Christchurch, but you can also visit a wildlife […]
Best Things to Do in Akaroa & Banks Peninsula, New Zealand
Go for a scenic drive, take a hike, feed an alpaca, take a wildlife cruise to see the smallest dolphins in the world, and dine on fresh seafood…these are all things to do in Akaroa and Banks Peninsula. Banks Peninsula is a small, volcanic peninsula located on the east coast of the South Island of […]
Hooker Valley Track Hiking Guide: Stats, Map & Photos
The Hooker Valley Track is a hiking trail in Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park that takes you through stunning alpine mountain scenery within New Zealand’s Southern Alps. You will hike past views of snowcapped mountain peaks and glaciers, across three swing bridges, and past two glacial lakes (Mueller Lake and Hooker Lake). The track […]
Tasman Glacier View, Blue Lakes, and Tasman Lake Hiking Guide
This Tasman Valley Hiking Guide covers the various walking tracks in the Tasman Valley section of Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park. These trails lead to Tasman Glacier View, Blue Lakes, Tasman Lake, and the Tasman River. You could easily spend several hours walking all of these tracks, but are all of the tracks worth […]
West Coast
This long, skinny region runs along the west coast of the South Island, wedged between the Tasman Sea and the Southern Alps. This rugged strip of land is one of the most remote in New Zealand and one of the most beautiful. Lush, green rainforests line the coast, sitting in the shadow of tall, glacier capped mountains.
On the west coast, spend some time in Franz Josef or Fox Glacier, hiking into the mountains and taking a helicopter flight over the Southern Alps, visiting the Punakaiki Pancake Rocks, and swimming in Hoktika Gorge.
Best Things to Do in Franz Josef | Glacier Country, New Zealand
Hike to viewpoints of glaciers, see the rarest Kiwi, soar over Fox Glacier and Franz Josef Glacier in a helicopter, capture Mount Tasman’s reflection in Lake Matheson, go heli-hiking or ice climbing, and relax in a hot tub…these are all things you can do in and around Franz Josef, New Zealand. Glacier Country is an […]
Fox Glacier & Franz Josef Helicopter Tours: Photos, Tips & What to Expect
A helicopter flight over the Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers is a thrilling experience. To see this land of glacier-capped mountains, rainforests, and rugged coastlines is one of the best experiences to have in Glacier Country, if not all of New Zealand. On a helicopter tour from Franz Josef or Fox Glacier, you will fly […]
Otago
Otago is home to Queenstown and Wanaka, making this one of New Zealand’s top destinations for tourists. This gorgeous region is home to stunning landscapes, wineries, quaint towns, picturesque hiking trails, and some of New Zealand’s most thrilling activities such as bungy jumping and jet boat riding.
This region also has a stretch of coastline along the east coast, home to Dunedin, the Otago Peninsula, and the start (or end, depending on the direction you travel) of the Southern Scenic Route, a multi-day road trip along the south coast of the South Island.
20 Best Things to Do in Dunedin & the Otago Peninsula
Dunedin is the second largest city on the South Island of New Zealand. It sits on the east coast, next to the Otago Peninsula. This city has a rich Scottish, Māori, and Chinese heritage, with grand architecture, several world class museums, and historic homes. On a visit to Dunedin, it’s also worth spending some time […]
Queenstown Itinerary: 3 Unique Ideas for Your Perfect Vacation
If you are planning your Queenstown itinerary, there are a lot of things to consider. How long should you spend in Queenstown? Where should you stay? Should you rent a car? What are the best things to do in Queenstown? In this guide, we share with you the top experiences in Queenstown and then how […]
Diamond Lake & Rocky Mountain Track: Best Routes, Map & Trail Stats
A visit to New Zealand would be incomplete without witnessing the beauty of Lake Wanaka. For those that want incredible views without struggling up the difficult Roy’s Peak Track, the Diamond Lake & Rocky Mountain Track has you covered. This 7.3 km/4.5 mile trail offers incredible vistas over both Diamond Lake and Lake Wanaka, while […]
20 Epic Things to Do in Wanaka, New Zealand
Wanaka is one of our favorite places in New Zealand. Lake Wanaka is a gorgeous lake, surrounded by mountain peaks, waterfalls, lavender farms, vineyards, and forests. On a visit to Wanaka, take your pick from some of New Zealand’s most famous day hikes, go wine tasting, climb a via ferrata, and eat freshly baked chocolate […]
Queenstown Bucket List: 25 Epic Things to Do in Queenstown
Queenstown is one of the best places in New Zealand to engage in heart-racing, thrilling adventures. Paragliding, bungy jumping, jet boat riding, skydiving, hiking, skiing, and mountain biking all make the list of the best things to do in Queenstown. But you can also keep your feet firmly on the ground and go hiking, shopping, […]
Roys Peak Track: Stats, Photos, Hiking with Kids
Roys Peak Track is one of the best hikes to do on the South Island of New Zealand. Located in Wanaka, this trail takes you high into the mountains for breathtaking panoramic views over Wanaka and Lake Wanaka. The hike itself is not all that exciting, but the main reason for hiking Roys Peak Track […]
A Tale of Four Bungy Jumps
Prior to our trip around the world, we would never have gone bungy jumping. That’s just for crazy people, right?! But as we passed bungy jump locations around the world, the idea grew on us. Once in Queenstown, the birthplace of bungy jumping, the idea didn’t sound so crazy anymore. How could we circle this […]
Southland
This is as far south as you can go in New Zealand. The Catlins are a hilly country in the southeast portion of Southland and Invercargill is this region’s largest town. Fiordland National Park, New Zealand’s largest national park, makes up the western portion of Southland. Stewart Island sits just off the south coast of the South Island.
In Southland, you can also spend some time in Te Anau, visit the Milford Sound and Doubtful Sound, and hike the Routeburn Track, a long-distance hike that crosses over into Otago, ending near Glenorchy.
How to Plan a Milford Sound Day Trip (+ Key Summit Track)
The Milford Sound (also called Piopiotahi), one of New Zealand’s most popular sights, is located just a few hours away from Queenstown and Te Anau on the South Island. In 2008, the Milford Sound took the #1 spot on TripAdvisor’s Travelers’ Choice World Destinations. And nearby Queenstown took second place. That just goes to show […]
Southern Scenic Route of New Zealand: Things to Do, Map, Itinerary
The Southern Scenic Route is a 600+ kilometer driving route that connects Dunedin, Invercargill, Te Anau, and Queenstown, New Zealand. It is a gorgeous drive, and along the way you are treated to some of the most spectacular scenery in the country. On this drive, you will visit quaint coastal towns, deserted beaches, waterfalls, fiords, […]
Exactly How to Hike the Routeburn Track in One Day
The Routeburn Track is considered one of the best hikes in New Zealand, and for a good reason, as there are many picturesque elements to this hike. The Routeburn Track will take you through lush mossy forests, across rivers, streams, and swing bridges, past pristine alpine lakes, past more waterfalls than you can count, and […]
Doubtful Sound Day Trip: What to Expect, Photos & Map
Doubtful Sound is a fiord in southwest New Zealand. It’s a neighbor of the more popular Milford Sound. A visit to Doubtful Sound, with its more remote location and less touristy vibe, is a much different experience than a visit to the Milford Sound. A Doubtful Sound day trip takes one full day. To get […]
Top Experiences in New Zealand
Milford Sound. You cannot visit New Zealand without taking a cruise on the Milford Sound. You can tour the Milford Sound on a day trip from Queenstown, but if you have the time, stay overnight in Te Anau, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the scenery between Queenstown and the Milford Sound.
Queenstown. This is New Zealand’s adventure capital and the coolest city in the country. This is where you go to get your crazy on! Go jet boat riding, bungy jumping, parasailing, mountain biking, skiing, whitewater rafting, and so much more.
Go Tramping. Tramping is a New Zealand term for walking or hiking over rough terrain. New Zealand is home to some of the best long distance hiking trails in the world, such as the Milford Track and the Routeburn Track. Some say that tramping is the best way to properly see this country.
Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park. Located in the Southern Alps, Mt Cook is New Zealand’s highest peak. The Hooker Valley Track is one of the best half day walks in New Zealand and gives visitors some of the best views of Mt. Cook. It is an easy walk suitable for people of all ages and fitness levels.
Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers. Here is your chance to walk on a glacier. For those wanting a more unforgettable experience, charter a helicopter for awesome views of New Zealand.
Roys Peak Track. If you want to keep your feet on the ground but still see some amazing views, this is one of New Zealand’s most scenic hikes. Climb up to Roys Peak for a breathtaking view out over the lakes and hills of the South Island.
Wanaka. This is one of our favorite towns in New Zealand. This is where you would stay if you were to hike Roy’s Peak Track. After your hike, relax at the Cinema Paradiso, the coolest movie theater ever!
Bungy Jumping. Do you dare? Go for it! New Zealand is where this crazy sport began. Where better to leap off of a bridge than at the Kawarau Bridge, the site of the first commercial bungy jump. There are more options around Queenstown and Taupo as well. Even bigger kids can get in on the action, doing the bungy swing all while overlooking beautiful Queenstown. This is the place to check bungy jumping off of your bucket list!
Waitomo Glowworm Caves. For a super cool, unique experience, journey to Waitomo on the North Island. Glide on an underground grotto and gaze up at the tiny living lights carpeting the walls and ceiling over your head. If you want to add more adventure to the visit, go blackwater rafting.
Hobbiton. You do not have to be a Lord of the Rings or a Hobbit fan to enjoy this visit. This tour of the filming site of “The Shire” is pure fun. Feel like a giant as you wander past these small, hobbit houses. At the end of your tour, drink a glass of ale at the Green Dragon Inn. Again, fun for the entire family.
Tongariro Alpine Crossing. Labeled as New Zealand’s single best day hike, we agree! You need an entire day to complete this hike but it is worth every step that you will take. Hike past Mt Doom and Mordor (yes, this was another filming site for Lord of the Rings), gaze over the emerald green lakes and smell the unpleasant sulfur odor bubbling up from the ground, and walk past active volcanoes. If you are an avid hiker, put Tongariro at the top of your list!
Auckland. Auckland is the largest city in New Zealand. Most likely you will fly into here when entering New Zealand. There is a lot to do in and around the city and it is worth visiting for at least a few days if you have the time.
Bay of Islands. Located near the northernmost tip of New Zealand, this is one of the North Island’s most popular destinations. Tour the Bay of Islands by boat or by airplane, go snorkeling, or go fishing.
Wellington. Wellington is the capital city of New Zealand. This city has an awesome dining and nightlife scene. It is also the home of Weta Cave, the special effects company that brought the Lord of the Rings, The Hobbit, Avatar, and many more movies to life.
Marlborough Wine Region. New Zealand produces some of the world’s best sauvignon blanc. Tour the wine regions by bicycle, car, or private tour, and sample some of New Zealand’s best wine.
How Many Days Do You Need in New Zealand?
At minimum, plan on spending 7 days in New Zealand. This gives you just enough time to visit one region of New Zealand. For example, you can visit a portion of the North Island or visit Queenstown, Wanaka, and Mt. Cook on the South Island.
For the best experience, plan on spending two weeks or longer in New Zealand. This gives you enough time to road trip through the South Island. With an additional week, you can add on the North Island.
If you only have a few days in New Zealand, we recommend choosing one city and doing day trips from here.
Best Time to Visit New Zealand
Summer (December, January, and February) is peak season. The days are long and warm. The weather is great but expect large crowds of people and more expensive prices for activities and lodging.
The fall season (March, April, and May) has cooler weather and less tourists. The trees are ablaze in yellows and reds and for those who like hiking, this is one of the best times to be in New Zealand.
Come to New Zealand in the winter (June, July, and August) for winter sports on the South Island.
Spring (September, October, and November) is another beautiful time to visit New Zealand. November sees a lot of flowers but not many tourists.