Whether it is your first time visiting or you’re a Kiwi looking to explore your own (amazing!) country, there are endless things to do in New Zealand. We’ve rounded up the top adrenaline rushes, foods to try, epic hikes and cultural experiences, so you can create your very own New Zealand bucket list.
New Zealand is a country packed with so much adventure and so many things to do that you’ll never be able to “do it all” in just one visit. But if you’re anything like us, you’ll want to pack in as much as you can!
From must-try New Zealand foods, to heart-thumping adventures, to wildlife encounters, there is something for everyone in this country.
We’ve put together a list of the best things to do in New Zealand on your first visit so you can start creating a bucket list for your very own Kiwi adventure.
New Zealand is truly one of our favorite countries in the world, and we’re so excited for you because you’re about to embark on one of the biggest adventures of your life!
New Zealand Travel Guide
For more tips and advice for planning your trip to New Zealand, jump to the following sections (or just keep scrolling to see it all!).
- How many days do you need
- New Zealand itinerary
- Best time to visit New Zealand
- Tips for visiting
- What to pack
- Round up of things to do in New Zealand
Top Things to do in New Zealand
If you’re looking for a quick & easy list, these are our very top recommendations for things to do in New Zealand on your first visit.
- Explore Milford Sound
- Go bungy jumping in Queenstown
- Swim with dolphins in Kaikoura
- Hike the Tongariro Alpine Crossing
- Learn about Maori Culture
- Go wine tasting on Waiheke Island
- See sunrise at Cathedral Cove
- Soak in a hot spring
Keep scrolling for all the details on how to do each of these experiences yourself (+ insider tips and what to expect!).
REAL TALK: When writing this article, we didn’t just research “top things to do in New Zealand” and write a little blurb on each, as you often find online. Instead, this article is completely from our personal experience, and it’s chock-full of our own stories, honest advice, prices and photos, so you know exactly what to expect along the way.
We’re even letting you in on some of the “top attractions” that just didn’t live up to the hype. We hope this resource is helpful to you as you plan your trip to New Zealand.
1. Swim with wild dolphins
If you grew up obsessed with “Flipper” and all things dolphin-related (like I did!), this experience will be a dream come true.
Just off the coast of the small South Island town of Kaikoura is home to the Dusky Dolphin. This species is known for being small (maximum of 2 meters long) and very playful. They are quite the acrobats, and can often be seen doing flips out of the water!
And guess what? You can have the opportunity to SWIM WITH THEM! If you are as excited about this as I was, read about our Kaikoura dolphin swim experience where we go over our honest opinion and insider tips.
Responsible Travel Note: We are very selective with any animal encounters we take part in while traveling. And since “swimming with dolphins” typically involves jumping into a pool at SeaWorld, we were particularly wary. But after a ton of research on this topic, we booked a spot on this tour. We were very impressed, and can recommend this as an ethical way to see dolphins up close.
Looking for a way to fit all of these experiences in one trip?
We traveled in NZ for about 5 weeks and were able to visit most of the highlights of the country, including both the North and the South Island. We did almost all of the experiences on this list!
We took our 5-week travels and condensed it down to 30 days because so many people wanted a 1-month route. We’ll send you our complete 1-month itinerary, filled with tips and advice. Just click below to get your 30-day New Zealand road trip itinerary today!
2. Eat a Fergburger
Prior to our trip to New Zealand, we talked to a few people who had just returned from similar trips, and each of them led with this:
“OH MY GOD, YOU NEED TO EAT AT FERGBURGER!”
Apparently this is one of the absolute-must-cannot-miss things to do in Queenstown!
For something so hyped, we were actually pleasantly surprised.
We ate there on two occasions (one might have been a hangover cure…), and both times the burgers were absolutely fantastic.
Everything you could want in a burger: Perfectly cooked meat. Lots of creative toppings. Flavorful sauces. Huge portions.
We have no complaints. Even the line, which looked like it might take forever, went by surprisingly quickly, and we had our burgers in hand a cool 20 minutes after stepping in the queue.
But if you are truly allergic to waiting in a line, you can call in your order and pick it up. I hope they don’t hate us for giving out their phone number, but here it is: +64 3-441 1232
Our Recommendations: We loved the Mr. Bigstuff, and seriously wanted to try the Sweet Bambi (but it was sold out both times we went). For more drool-worthy burger descriptions, check out their whole menu.
Vegetarian friends: There are 2 non-meat options you can try; a tempura tofu burger with spicy satay, coconut & coriander sauce (Holier Than Thou) and a falafel burger with lemon yogurt and avocado (Ferg-lafel).
No matter what time of day your burger craving strikes, Fergburger will be able to satisfy, as they are open from 8 a.m. (breakky burgers, anyone?!) to 5 a.m. for all those youths walking home from the bars.
Insider Tip: If you’re a big fan of burgers, try rival Devil Burger (also in Queenstown) and Red Star in Wanaka, which we’ve heard both serve amazing burgers as well. We like burgers, but in moderation. So the two Fergburgers we had meant we’re good on meat patties for a few months…
3. Go bungy jumping where it was invented
“Do one thing every day that scares you.” We’ve all heard this famous quote from Eleanor Roosevelt.
This wise First Lady is basically telling you to go bungy jumping! Or something like that…?
New Zealand is the perfect place to make your first jump for a few reasons:
- New Zealand is the place this crazy adrenaline sport was invented. (First bungy ever was near Queenstown on the Kawarau Bridge, and the first person was a man named AJ Hackett (he now has a very successful company in his namesake.)
- There are tons of different bungee jumps all around the country, suited for everyone’s taste. Whether you dive headfirst into the scenic river gorge off Kawarau Bridge like we did (the original!) or do the highest jump in the country at Nevis, there are lots of different jumps to choose from.
- The bungy jump operators in New Zealand are top notch quality. Remember, these companies do this all day, every day. They are very good at what they do, and your safety is of the utmost importance.
Although the experience in itself is super short and pretty damn expensive (around $205 New Zealand Dollars, NZD), it’s empowering to know you faced a fear, and you might just get some epic photos to prove it!
Good to know: They will take photos of you on your jump, but they cost extra ($45 NZD for photos only and $80 NZD for photos and video). They also allow you to carry a GoPro if you’d like. Ben did this and was able to take much better footage than what the photographers captured (but make sure it is attached well on your wrist!).
If bungy jumping is on your New Zealand Bucket List, make sure you book the experience at least a few days in advance if you’re traveling during peak season. This is an ultra-popular activity, and the best spots book up fully. Book your AJ Hackett jump.
Real Talk: So how scary is it, really? That all depends on you, but our advice is to get out onto the ledge, take a breath and jump as soon as the staff member counts you down. The longer you stand out there, the scarier it gets. Make up your mind to jump without hesitation. You’ll thank us.
Psst! Queenstown is undoubtedly one of the coolest cities in New Zealand. We have a whole Queenstown travel guide here!
4. Learn about Māori Culture
Maori are the indigenous people of New Zealand, and they are known around the world for their stunning tattoo designs and a dance called the Haka, in which warriors stick out their tongues to intimidate enemies.
Today it is known around the world because the All Blacks Rugby team do a Haka before each game. If you’re unfamiliar with this war dance, check out this video of a Maori dance group performing the Haka.
While “see a Haka” might already be on your list, I’d push you to expand that to also learning about Maori culture more in depth.
Fun Fact: The ancestors of the Maori people came from French Polynesia and settled in New Zealand just 700 years ago, making this country one of the last places settled by humans.
Today, Maori people make up roughly 15% of New Zealand’s population, and the majority of them live in the area around Rotorua, making this town a popular place to have a Maori cultural experience.
Bonus: While in Rotorua, try a Hangi meal (available at most Maori cultural sites). Hangi is a way of cooking which involves digging a pit and putting heated rocks inside. This can be used to cook just about anything, but the Hangi meals you’ll find are generally a mix of vegetables (potatoes and carrots) as well as meat.
In Rotorua, there are many different ways to learn about Maori culture. We did two different Maori cultural experiences to be able to compare them. While they were both interesting in their own way, we don’t think it would be necessary to do both as they overlap quite a bit. Choose the experience that sounds best for your budget and travel style.
Whakarewarewa Living Māori Village
QUICK GIST: Less formal, affordable, takes less time, opportunity to see geothermal sites, see where people are still living today.
Take a tour through a village where a small population of Maori people live today. You’ll learn about their history as well as their lives today and you can ask questions to your Maori guide. Your tour concludes with a cultural performance, which includes a Haka.
You also have the opportunity to order a hangi pie (similar to a meat pie) and corn cooked in a geyser from their onsite cafe (not necessary to order in advance). After your tour is finished, you can walk on their trails over geothermal pools.
Cost: Adults ~$45 NZD, Children ~$20 NZD.
Tamaki Māori Village: Te Pa Tu Maori Cultural Experience with Dinner
QUICK GIST: More refined and comprehensive, feels like more of a “performance”, Hangi buffet dinner included, more immersive and beautifully put together, more expensive.
This is a pretty full on experience which starts with a bus journey outside of Rotorua. This is much more of a performance than what you’ll experience at the Living Village.
You’ll circulate through different stations where Maori people dressed in traditional clothing explain different aspects of their culture and history — from their tattoos to societal roles to their creation story.
You will then watch a cultural show (quite similar to that of the Living Village) and finish the experience with a massive Hangi buffet.
Cost: Adults ~$130 NZD, Children ~10-15 years $75 NZD, Children 5-9 years ~$35 NZD.
Important to know: The word “Māori” itself can be difficult to pronounce. We’re right there with ya! This video tutorial will help you pronounce it correctly.
Wondering when to plan your trip? We’ve got all your questions answered in our guide to the best time to visit New Zealand. (Plus, we’re sharing when to avoid!)
5. Visit Milford Sound
Touted as New Zealand’s “Most Popular Tourist Destination” and even called the “8th Wonder of the World”, visiting Milford Sound is a must on your first trip to New Zealand.
Located in Fiordland National Park, the 15 kilometer stretch that makes up Milford Sound boasts sheer rock faces, mountain peaks, and two permanent waterfalls: Lady Bowen Falls and Stirling Falls.
Milford Sound is known to get heavy rainfalls, creating temporary waterfalls from the sides of just about every rock face in the fjord. So don’t worry if rain is predicted for the day of your cruise: It’s said that rainy days are the best time to experience Milford Sound. (Though we thought our clear, sunny day was pretty spectacular too!)
Alternative: Doubtful Sound is a less-visited option, however, it is only accessible by boat, so it requires a bit more time to get there.
Below are the best ways to experience Milford Sound:
Milford Sound Boat Cruise
The cheapest and most popular option, taking a boat cruise is a wonderful introduction to Milford Sound. Cruises range in price but are pretty affordable, and they run in rain or shine.
This is the option we chose and we were happy with it. If we had more time, we would have also loved to do a kayaking excursion.
We have a whole guide that lists all the best Milford Sound cruises, but here are 2 good options:
Milford Sound Kayak Tour
If you want a more intimate experience, kayaking in Milford Sound might be a great option for you.
There are all sorts of tour options, suited to a variety of experience levels. One thing to consider though, is you won’t go as far into the fjord on a kayak as you would on a cruise.
That’s why we’d recommend booking a tour that offers the opportunity to kayak and cruise, aka the best of both worlds!
Scenic flight from Queenstown + a boat cruise
Take in the views above Milford Sound for a totally different perspective on this day trip which
If you’re celebrating something special like your honeymoon, this luxury Milford Sound flight plus boat tour definitely checks the box of “bucket list experience”!
Do you need transportation to and from Queenstown included? This day trip is a long one (12.5 hours total!), but it includes a bus ride to and from Milford Sound as well as a 2-hour boat cruise and a picnic lunch. Book your all-day tour here!
Or, if you’re driving yourself (which we highly recommend!), we have a whole guide to planning the perfect Queenstown to Milford Sound road trip.
6. Spend a night in a mountain hut
Calling all true adventure seekers! This one’s for you…
There is a vast network of mountain huts all around New Zealand that make it possible to do multi-day treks. Spending the night in one of the 1,000+ huts across the country is worthy of a spot on any adventure seeker’s bucket list. (It was near the top of our must dos!)
The huts vary from super remote and basic to easily accessible and comfortable.
Do your research because they also vary in price and popularity. Some book out weeks in advance, while others are hardly ever full.
Fun Fact: If you are planning to spend the night at a hut, you are not “hiking”. Instead, Kiwis call this “tramping”, which could be compared to what North Americans call “backpacking”.
We’ve created a list of a few mountain huts to consider for your first trip to New Zealand.
They all only require one day to reach, so they can be a good addition to your trip even if you have limited time in New Zealand.
Brewster Hut
We spent a night in this 12-bunk hut in Mount Aspiring National Park and were awestruck by some of the best views we saw in the entire country.
This hut is the least-visited on this list, and requires a grueling 3-hour climb, but it’s all worth it for getting to a place few visitors see.
We describe our trek and our time spend at Brewster Hut in our West Coast article.
Mueller Hut
This iconic red hut is set on a ridge in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park and has 28 bunks.
Bookings are required at this popular hut and the DOC estimates this hike to take 4 hours one-way on exposed ridges. Be sure to check with the local DOC for up to date weather conditions before attempting the trek yourself, as ice axes and crampons may be required.
We had reservations at Mueller Hut, but the conditions were too bad on the day of our trek that we decided to cancel.
Pinnacles Hut
We spent one night at this hut and loved every minute! Touted as the “most luxurious hut in New Zealand”, this is a perfect choice for less experienced hikers.
The hike to the hut takes 2.5 – 3 hours and is moderate in difficulty. The Pinnacles viewpoint lies just 45 minutes past the hut and is known for spectacular sunset and sunrise views.
The Pinnacles Hut has 80 bunks and a kitchen full of cookware and gas stoves, which is not common for mountain huts.
7. Live the #vanlife
If the #vanlife hashtag has your interest piqued, New Zealand is the perfect place to rev your engine. With campgrounds that range from free and basic to damn near luxurious (with a price tag to match!), this country is well-suited to campervan pros and newbies alike.
There is something indescribable about living in a home on wheels, if even for a couple weeks. It shows you how simple life can be if you let it, and gives you the freedom to wake up next to mountains one day and the ocean the next.
Thinking about making your trip to New Zealand a campervan adventure?
Well, you’re in luck because we’ve created a massive guide with everything you need to know about planning a campervan trip in New Zealand!
We even have an article dedicated to the best New Zealand campsites to make it easy to plan the perfect route.
If you’re convinced and ready for your van life adventure (yay!), Motorhome Republic is a great place to start to compare the prices of campervans for your travel dates.
8. Log as many hikes as possible
New Zealand is a hiker’s paradise. There are thousands of trails around the country in varying levels of difficulty and lengths.
From the famed Te Araroa Trail, which runs the length of both the North and South Islands clocking in at 3,000 kilometers (1,864 miles) and taking roughly 4 months to complete, to a plethora of day hikes suitable to even inexperienced hikers, you’ll have no shortage of hikes to fill your trip.
It can be easy to get overly ambitious and come up with a huge list of tracks; but unless you plan to do nothing but hike on your first trip to New Zealand, you’ll have to pick and choose. We’ve put together a list of some of the best hikes in New Zealand with the help of our local Kiwi friend to help you narrow down your focus.
Here are some of our favorite day hikes in New Zealand
In the effort of helping your narrow down an overwhelming list of epic trails, we’re sharing our favorite hikes in New Zealand for your first trip. In some cases, we’re giving you a choice between 2 because they are similar in location or views.
Pinnacles Hike
- 2.5 – 3 hours to the hut, then 45 minutes to the Pinnacles
- allot at least 6 hours if you do this as a day trip
- Difficulty: moderate
Located in the Coromandel Peninsula, this can be done as either a day hike or an overnight excursion. It’s not that difficult of a trek until the climb to the Pinnacles, which involves some ropes and metal bars
The best views are at sunset and sunrise, so we’d definitely recommend spending the night at the Pinnacles Hut.
Key Summit or Marian Lake
These hikes are located within a few kilometers of each other amongst the Southern Alps. They both make a great stop on your drive from Queenstown to Milford Sound.
They are quite different, so read each description and choose the one that will suit you better.
- Key Summit is the more popular of the two and has 360-degree views of surrounding peaks on a clear day. | Key Summit: 2.5 – 3 hours return, easy hike.
- Marian Lake starts with a hike past beautiful waterfalls (it takes only 15 minutes to get here, so even if you don’t do the whole hike, you can at least get to this point). The hike culminates at an alpine lake in a hanging valley. | Marian Lake: 3 hours return, steep hike.
Isthmus Peak or Roys Peak
Both hikes have epic lake views and take roughly the same amount of time. The most notable difference is that Roys Peak is ultra popular and often has lines formed to get a photograph at the Insta-famous viewpoint, whereas Isthmus Peak is far less crowded (but maybe not for long!).
- Roys Peak: 5-6 hours return, easy track, closed Oct 1 to Nov 10 for lambing season
- Isthmus Peak: 5-6 hours return, medium track, closed Nov 20 to Dec 20 for fawning
Hooker Valley Track
- 3 hours return
- Difficulty: Easy
This is more of a walk than a hike, but it still makes the list because it is an absolute must do when in New Zealand’s South Island.
This 3-hour return walk is suitable to all levels and offers some of the most spectacular views you’ll see of Aoraki / Mount Cook. We both agree this hike was the best thing we did in Mount Cook National Park given our limited time.
Tongariro Alpine Crossing
- 7-8 hours
- Difficulty: Hard
This is one of our favorite hikes in New Zealand, and we’d highly recommend adding it to your itinerary. See #13 on this list for more information.
On a related note… If reading this article has convinced you to pack your bags and immediately uproot your life to relocate to New Zealand, we have good news for you… You can! With New Zealand’s Working Holiday Visa program, foreigners can live and work in NZ for up to 2 years.
9. Eat a Golden Kiwi
These delicious golden fruits are sweeter and juicier than their green counterparts, and you should absolutely try one (or 10!) while traveling in Kiwi country.
Tip: Golden kiwis have a much thinner (and less hairy skin) than the green fruits, so go ahead and bite in, like how you’d eat an apple. The skin packs in a healthy dose of fiber and Vitamin C, so don’t even think about wasting this nutrient-rich layer!
10. Take a jet boat ride
Invented in the 1950’s by a Kiwi farmer, the jetboat is propelled by shooting water out the back.
Being that it doesn’t have propellors like a traditional water vessel, jetboats are able to navigate shallow rivers that would otherwise be impassable.
Taking a jet boat ride is a classic New Zealand adventure, and you’ll find rides being offered all around the country. They’re known to go fast and whip around turns, making for an adventurous boat ride.
We didn’t go on a proper jet boat tour, but rode on one during a visit to a bird sanctuary. We were actually surprised by how fun it was!
The Jet Boat Tours that look most exciting to us are:
Huka Falls near Lake Taupo
The jet boat will bring you up close to this beautiful and powerful turquoise body of water in an exhilarating ride!
Shotover Jetboat
This is one of the more popular things to do in Queenstown. You’ll skim over the Shotover River, while coming close to the gorge walls while doing 360’s in the canyon.
11. Wine tasting at a vineyard
New Zealand is known for producing some fabulous whites and reds, and if you consider yourself a wino, you’ll definitely want to make space on your itinerary for a stop at one (or 5!) vineyards to sample the local flavors.
New Zealand’s diverse climate means each region specializes in different varieties.
If you’re like us and aren’t picky, just choose the place that’s most convenient for you to add on your New Zealand road trip.
But if you’re are a real wine snob (no judgement here!), the descriptions below will help you choose a region based on the type of vino they’re known for.
Marlborough
The most famous wine-producing region in New Zealand, Marlborough is known for its spectacular Sauvignon Blanc and its Pinot Noir.
- Recommendation: We visited the Saint Clair Family Estate Vineyard and had a great experience.
Looking for a fun way to see the wineries? Rent a bike! There are 15 wineries within 3 km of the starting point, so you’re in for a fun-filled day!
Central Otago
This region encompasses both Queenstown and Wanaka, and is known best for its Pinot Noirs.
- Recommendation: We’ve heard good things about Rippon near Wanaka and Chard Farm near Queenstown.
Waiheke Island
Just a 40-minute ferry journey from Auckland, this picturesque island is speckled with vineyards. The hot, dry climate is ideal for Syrahs and Pinot Gris.
- Recommendation: Obsidian has really nice wines. Our friend who lives on Waiheke Island said this is her favorite!
Hawke’s Bay
This is New Zealand’s second-largest wine-producing region and is known for reds: Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah; as well as Chardonnays.
- Recommendation: Mission Estate Winery was established in 1851, making it the oldest existing winery in New Zealand. Alternatively, Crab Farm Winery is beautifully designed and has some great food offerings while Linden Estate Winery has some of the best views in the area.
12. Go whale watching in Kaikoura
Kaikoura is a small town on the South Island’s east coast, and offers visitors the chance to see sperm whales in their natural habitat all year round. And it’s hard to beat the picturesque combination of seeing a whale slapping its tail against a backdrop of snowy peaks.
Whale Watch Kaikoura boasts a 95% success rate, and will refund 80% of your tour price if your boat doesn’t see a whale. So you don’t have much to lose!
Personal experience: We were stoked about the opportunity to see whales, but on the day we had our reservation, none of the whale watching tours went out because the “seas were too choppy”. Sadly, we didn’t have any wiggle room in our dates, as we had ferry tickets for the following morning. So we had to forgo this experience. (Obviously, we didn’t have to pay anything.)
A friend we were traveling with was able to go the next day, and she saw whales! So learn from us and make sure you have a “buffer day” to maximize your chances of seeing whales.
13. Hike the Tongariro Alpine Crossing
Tongariro Alpine Crossing stats:
- Distance: 12 miles (19.4 km)
- Type of hike: Point-to-point
- Elevation Gain: 2,759 feet (841 meters)
- Difficulty rating: Hard
- Time: average of 7-8 hours (can range from 6 -11 hours, depending on your pace)
- Location: North Island New Zealand, within Tongariro National Park
This hike takes the better part of one day and gets incredibly crowded, but it is popular for good reason. The views on this trek are nothing short of epic, and the landscapes otherworldly.
If you do one lengthier day hike on your trip to New Zealand, make it this one.
Situated in Tongariro National Park, this trek takes you through moonscapes and past Mount Mount Ngauruhoe (aka “Mount Doom” in the Lord of the Rings). It also brings you past shockingly green lakes and volcanic craters.
Important to know: You will need to book a shuttle ticket in advance, as the start and end points are different.
We have an entire guide to hiking the Tongariro Alpine Crossing route with everything you need to know about the shuttles, what to pack, and tips for along the way.
14. Take one of New Zealand’s most scenic drives
With rugged mountain peaks, glacial lakes, mossy rainforests and blissfully deserted beaches, New Zealand has no shortage of jaw-dropping scenery.
One of the best parts of traveling in New Zealand is simply the stunning drives you’ll take (especially in the South Island).
Give yourself more time than the GPS says because you’ll definitely want to stop frequently for photo ops and little roadside attractions, like waterfalls, rivers and short walks.
Psst! We’ve got all sorts of tips for driving and renting a car in New Zealand that you won’t want to miss!
Lake Pukakai to Mount Cook Village
- 40 minutes one way
This is one of the most epic stretches of road in all of New Zealand, and offers spectacular views of the brilliantly turquoise Lake Pukaki flanked by the snowcapped peak of Mount Cook.
- Peter’s Lookout is a great place to stop for photos (pictured above).
Queenstown to Glenorchy
- 50 minutes one way (you will have to return as well)
This drive hugs the shore of Lake Wakatipu and brings you from the tourism hotspot of Queenstown to the much smaller village of Glenorchy. Making this scenic drive is one of the best things to do in the area.
- Stop off at Bob’s Cove to explore
- Bennett’s Bluff for a scenic viewpoint
- Wander the small town of Glenorchy and stop at Mrs. Woolly’s General Store for snacks and coffee
Queenstown and Wanaka
- 1 hour 10 minutes
This road is incredibly winding and steep at times, but the views over the Central Otago region are spectacular.
- Make a stop in the historic mining settlement, Arrowtown, to get an ice cream cone and walk the Main Street.
- For an epic view, take a detour and drive to the top of one of the 3 ski resorts in the region – The Remarkables, Coronet Peak or Cardrona.
Te Anau to Milford Sound
- 2.5 hours without making any stops
If you plan to visit Milford Sound while in New Zealand (spoiler alert: you should!), this is a portion of the route you will take. There are tons of places to stop off along the way, so give yourself plenty of time.
- Mirror Lakes: super short stop at a lake that is incredibly glossy and reflective.
- Key Summit: 3-hour return hike that grants epic views of the area.
- Lake Marian: 3-hour return hike to the lake, or a 20-minute return hike to a beautiful waterfall.
- The Chasm: 20-minute stop at a powerful waterfall.
Insider Tip: Be sure to fill up your gas tank in Te Anau, as there are no petrol stations past this town.
Ready to start your New Zealand road trip? Check out Motorhome Republic to compare prices of campervans.
15. Soak in hot springs
There aren’t many things better than resting sore muscles in a pool of hot water after a day of hiking. Or walking around town. Or heck, just driving in a campervan (pressing the gas pedal takes a toll on that calf muscle!).
I guess it’s no secret that we’ll take just about any excuse to seek out hot springs on our travels.
Due to heightened geothermal activity in New Zealand, it should come as no surprise that there are quite a few hot springs around the country, ranging from super accessible to pretty remote.
There are the 100% naturally-occurring (and totally free!) hot springs as well as those that are man-made (and charge an admission fee).
Here are a few hot springs to put on your New Zealand bucket list for your first visit:
Kerosene Creek
- naturally warm waterfall
These naturally hot waterfalls make a great stop during your time in Rotorua. They are set in a shaded forest down a gravel road. Though these used to be pretty unknown, they are getting more and more popular. (There was a group of school children on a field trip when we were there.) If you like natural hot springs though, we still think they are worth a stop!
However, beware that the water here is quite smelly, and will tarnish jewelry. (Don’t worry — it can be easily cleaned with toothpaste or baking soda.) Also, pay attention to the signs in the parking lot and make sure your valuables are out of sight. Sadly, we met a couple here who had their car broken into.
Cost: Free!
Lake Taupo Hot Springs
- Free Riverside Hangout
This natural hot spring is small, but well worth a soak. Situated on the banks of the Waikato River, the Spa Park Hot Pools are beautiful and there are clean toilets and changing room facilities. Plus, the water is not nearly as smelly as that in Kerosene Creek.
We saw many people with adult beverages to enjoy while soaking, though we aren’t sure if this is “technically legal”, there were a few signs saying it was banned.
Cost: Free!
Waiho Hot Tubs
- Individual man-made tubs
For a more “refined” hot pool experience, the Waiho Hot Tubs make for a peaceful place to soak. While this is not a natural hot spring, they are nicely designed, and are lovely after a day of exploring glaciers.
Waiho Hot Tubs offers a luxurious soak that’ll be well-earned after a day of adventuring around Franz Josef. You’ll need a reservation for your hour-long time slot. See their website for pricing and availability.
Cost: See their website for pricing and availability.
Onsen Hot Pools
- Insta-Famous Pampering
If it’s an Instagram-worthy view you’re after, the Onsen Hot Pools just outside of Queenstown will be just what you’re looking for.
Cost: for 2 adults during day $101 NZD and at night $125 for 60 minutes
Hanmer Springs
- large family-friendly resort
When it comes to large spa resorts for the whole family, Hanmer Springs is one of the best. Located not far from Christchurch, you can shoot down a waterslide and get a spa treatment all at the same place!
Cost: $38 NZD for adults, with optional add ons
16. Eat like a New Zealander
While New Zealand cuisine isn’t super easy to define, there tends to be a focus on seasonal ingredients that are produced locally.
Think fresh seafood on the coasts, lamb in the countryside, and veggies that are in season.
Kiwi cuisine draws influence from British dishes (like fish ‘n chips) as well as indigenous staples (like the famous Maori Hāngī ) and even cuisines from countries on the Pacific Rim.
Psst! We have an entire guide to food in New Zealand so you know exactly what to try!
17. Feel like a kid on the Queenstown Luge
If the thought of driving a real-life Mario Kart appeals to you in the slightest, you’ll love the Queenstown Luge. It was even more fun than it looks!
Channel your inner Princess Peach or Luigi and whip around curves as you race your travel companions (loser buys beers!). But don’t forget to take in the stunning views over Queenstown as you drive the course, but watch out for banana peels!
Good to know: On your first ride, you must drive on the “beginner loop” which is less steep, though we were still able to go decently fast! We wish we would have sprung for at least one more ride on the “advanced loop”.
To get to the top of this hill that over looks Queenstown from the northwest, you can either make the 45-minute Tiki Trail hike, or you can take the Skyline gondola, which costs $39 NZD ($55 with 2 luge rides).
Cost: $14 NZD for one track, $24 for 2. The more you ride the cheaper it gets.
Want more ideas of fun things to do in Queenstown? There’s tons to do! And we have a whole guide to Queenstown to make sure you have the best time!
18. Go chasing waterfalls
Throughout New Zealand, there are 249 named waterfalls (and many more than that after a hard rain!).
There are so many waterfalls throughout the country, that you’ll no doubt come across ones you weren’t even planning on visiting.
So ignore TLC’s advice and get out there and chase some waterfalls!
You’re gonna want to read this… We put together a list of all the essential things to know about NZ before you go! Don’t miss it.
19. Sunrise at Cathedral Cove
This iconic cave frequently graces Instagram, so there’s a good chance you’ve seen pictures of this spot. Even though Cathedral Cove has earned Insta Fame, you can still enjoy it without the crowds (if you get there early!).
Okay, you don’t really need to be there at sunrise, but do be sure to get your butt into gear as soon as you can!
An easy 45-minute walk brings you to a small beach. There, you’ll find a cave that opens up into another hidden beach that’s dotted beautifully with a picture-perfect sea stack.
Personal Experience: For us, this was a magical place. But part of that was due to the time of day we got there. We started on the walk at 7 a.m. and passed by professional photographers who had actually been in the cove for sunrise (giant tripods and all!). But when we got there: Crickets. That’s right, we had this enchanting cave entirely to ourselves for a good 20 minutes.
It was a good thing we got an early start, because on our walk back (around 9 a.m.), we passed by at least 20 different groups, including a school trip of 40+ middle schoolers. Yikes!
In order to get there early, we’d suggest spending the night nearby. If you’re camping, Hahei Holiday Resort is a lovely campground and is the starting point for the walk.
Tip: Pack some snacks and a towel, as the nearby beaches are lovely spots to spend a couple hours if you have the time.
20. Eat fish ‘n chips
We thought nobody did fish and chips like the UK, but that was before we visited New Zealand!
You’ll see this dish on the menu all throughout the country, as well as dedicated fish and chip shops. They typically serve a variety of fish at all price points (making it a pretty affordable meal), and have the option to add on chips.
Insider Tip: The best fish and chips we had in New Zealand was from Erik’s Fish and Chips in Queenstown. Also, a “Kiwi thing to do” is order your chips with sour cream and sweet chili sauce. Not a healthy upcharge, but a delicious one for sure!
21. Have a beach day
While New Zealand may not be the first place that comes to mind when you picture a “beach vacation”, we can assure you there are plenty sandy stretches to soak up some Vitamin D.
Even if you’re not a Sun Worshipper, taking a stroll along the ocean or enjoying a picnic lunch with a view should definitely be on your list of things to do in New Zealand.
Here are some of our favorite beaches for your first visit to New Zealand:
- New Chums Beach: Being that this beach requires a 30-minute walk to get to, it sees less crowds than most other beaches on the North Island.
- Tip: Be sure to hike the extra 10 (steep) minutes up to the viewpoint!
- Piha Beach: Just 45 minutes west of Auckland, this rugged black sand beach is known for surf and laidback vibes.
- Abel Tasman: This National Park is full of beautiful beaches to choose from.
- Waiheke Island: With white sandy beaches and azure waters, you’ll forget you’re just a 40-minute ferry ride from Auckland. Onetangi Beach is the largest (and most popular) on the island, but Palm Beach was our favorite.
22. Roll down a hill in an orb (aka go Zorbing!)
Does the thought of rolling down a hill in a giant inflatable ball filled with warm water sound like a grand ol’ time?! We sure thought so!
Zorbing is just that, and it comes as no surprise that, just like bungee jumping and jet boating, it too was invented in New Zealand.
While you can find Zorbing around the country (and the world!), the original site is located in Rotorua and is operated by a company called ZORB (a fitting name indeed!).
They have 3 tracks to choose from: the Fast Track (straight down), the Zig Zag, and the Drop, which they claim is the “world’s steepest drop and world’s fastest ride”.
You can choose to do just one ride or a package of three, and we’d definitely recommend the latter. Rolling down the hill once is fun but will leave you wanting more — trust us.
Tip: Zorbing is actually the perfect rainy day activity!
23. Spot rare birds
There are many bird species — like the Kiwi, for example — that you can only find in New Zealand. And while you’re visiting, you should make it a goal to spot at least one of New Zealand’s endemic birds.
Interesting Fact: Did you know that New Zealand does not have any native mammals? (Well, with the exception of 2 species of bats.) Because there were virtually no predators, birds thrived here for much of history. Settlers brought mammals with them, however, so today many bird species are threatened. See more NZ facts!
You’ll have a good chance at spotting one of these birds while in New Zealand (or maybe even all four!):
- New Zealand Pigeon: Also called a wood pigeon or kereru (Maori name), this greenish-purple bird is known to eat rotting berries. Eating this fermented fruit leads them to become drunk (yes, seriously!), and they are famous for falling off branches and clumsily flying into trees. The Kereru was named New Zealand’s Bird of the Year in 2018 (again, I’m not joking!).
- Kea: The world’s only alpine parrot, these greenish birds are really cute and can be easily spotted on New Zealand’s South Island.
- Tui: These birds are can be identified by their iridescent feathers and a white tuft under their neck. But more often than not, you’ll hear a tui before you see it. They are known for their singing, as well as their ability to mimic sounds — from other birdcalls to car alarms. Tuis are also known as being aggressive and quite annoying, so it’s fitting that there is a longstanding brewery named after this bird.
- Weka: This flightless bird is about the size of a chicken, and it will no doubt remind you of one.
If you’d like to see the iconic Kiwi while in New Zealand, you’ll have to visit a hatching facility, like the West Coast Wildlife Center, because these nocturnal birds are extremely rare and hard to spot.
And if you’re really into birds, consider doing the White Heron Sanctuary tour, where you’ll go into a remote wildlife reserve that few people get to see. Learn more about our time on the West Coast.
24. Visit Waiheke Island
Just a 40-minute ferry ride from Auckland, spending a couple days on Waiheke Island is a perfect addition to your New Zealand itinerary.
This island is full of hilly viewpoints, hidden coves, white sand beaches, top-notch restaurants, small towns and many, many vineyards.
Here are some of our top things to do in Waiheke Island:
- Beach day at Onetangi or Palm Beach
- Wine tasting at Obsidian Vineyard
- Pack a picnic dinner and enjoy sunset from one of the many random picnic tables with a view around the island
- Try local oysters
- Sit on the hill at Casita Miro with sangria and a tapas platter
Good to know: It is worth noting that prices on Waiheke Island tend to be higher than on the mainland.
Insider Tip: Take the Fullers Ferry to Waiheke Island, which is 40 minutes, instead of the SeaLink 80-minute ferry. (We made that mistake!)
Read Next: When you’re back on the mainland, we have an entire article dedicated to Things to do in Auckland.
25. Stargaze in a Dark Sky Reserve at Lake Tekapo
There’s something magical about looking up at the night sky and seeing twinkling lights. But sadly, light pollution makes it hard many places around the world to stargaze.
Luckily, New Zealand isn’t one of those places. Apart from the major cities, you should be able to see stars on clear nights all around the country.
If you’re really serious about astronomy, there are some areas known as “Dark Sky Reserves”, which basically means they have restrictions on light pollution and make for some exceptional stargazing.
Lake Tekapo is the most famous place to go stargazing in New Zealand, and is one of the most easily accessible Dark Sky Reserves. The Church of the Good Shepherd is an iconic stone building at the lake’s edge, and it is a popular feature in many astro-photos of this area.
So pack some snacks and a blanket (and a tripod if you want to photograph the stars) and prepare to be enchanted. Oh, and wine helps too.
You can also book a
Another option for stargazing in New Zealand:
- Aoraki Mount Cook National Park
26. Go sea kayaking
There is something incredibly peaceful about getting out on the water — just you and a paddle. On a kayak, you have the opportunity to see this country from a perspective few get to see.
There are no shortage of places to go sea kayaking in New Zealand, but here are some of the best places to test out your sea legs:
Whenuakura (Donut Island)
You can kayak to the 2 small islands off the coast, one of which is a sacred Maori site and is shaped like a donut, allowing you to kayak “inside” the island for a breathtaking experience.
It is a bit difficult to paddle as the tide comes in and out, so we’d only recommend this if you have a bit of kayaking experience or are in the mood for an adventure! The neighboring island has a private little beach that is perfect for relaxing on.
Psst! If you’re a newbie, you’ll want to read this guide to kayaking for beginners.
Do it yourself: We rented a double kayak for $60 NZD from Pedal and Paddle (which is the cheapest option we’ve found), and we kayaked on our own to the island (we didn’t have a guide). It was nice because the rental price included transportation to the beach and they picked us up when we were finished. Alternatively, if you’d prefer to have a guide (and not go on your own), this tour gets great reviews.
Abel Tasman National Park
For an epic day tour, kayak out into the Tasman Bay for a few hours and then shore up, have lunch and hike back on the famous Abel Tasman Track.
Milford Sound
Explore the magic of Milford from the water. These tours go out in groups and explore unique parts of the sound and you might get to see some wildlife up close.
27. Explore the underrated West Coast
This region is sometimes left off of New Zealand itineraries, which is a shame as it is one of the most adventure-packed and diverse areas in the country.
With glaciers, rainforests, caves, beaches and epic drives, you’ll find lots of ways to occupy your time.
Here are some of our favorite things to do on the West Coast:
- Glimpse the iconic Pancake Rocks in Punakaiki (pictured above)
- See the Franz Joseph Glacier up close
- Take the UnderWorld Tubing Glowworm Tour (it was even better than we expected!)
- Relax in the Franz Joseph Glacial Hot Pools
We loved this under-explored region so much we spend 3 full days exploring.
Want more? We have a guide with tons of fun things to do in New Zealand’s West Coast plus all sorts of tips for your time in this region.
28. See geothermal wonders in Rotorua
Rotorua is known for its geothermal activity, which plays a huge role in Maori culture.
While visiting this region, you’ll definitely notice a smell… similar to that of rotten eggs. Mmmm…
Once you get over the sulfur stink, you’ll have the opportunity to visit a handful of different geothermal attractions, ranging from spas with mud baths to regularly erupting geysers to hot waterfalls. You’ll have no shortage of sulfur-powered fun in Rotorua!
29. Dig your own hot tub
Speaking of geothermal wonders…
Digging your own “hot tub” on Hot Water Beach is a token must-do on your first trip to New Zealand.
There is a unique beach on the Coromandel Peninsula known for having a geothermal spring beneath the sand. When you dig with a shovel, hot water will pour in as cold ocean waves lap the beach shore.
Experiencing this unique thermal beach is one of the most fun things to do on New Zealand’s North Island.
Know before you go: It doesn’t look like Instagram.
You might see pictures where it looks like you can dig a secluded hole and be by yourself (like the photo above).
But the truth is, the hot spring is in a relatively small area. So where you see the crowd of people (yes, there will be a crowd!) is where the hot water is.
We attempted to walk further down the beach and dig, but to no avail. We were left with small pool of very cold water. So we headed back into the crowd to dig yet another hole.
As long as you know to expect to share the area with others, we think you’ll still have a grand time!
Helpful tips for visiting Hot Water beach:
- It’s best to visit within 2 hours of low tide (2 hours before up until 2 hours after). This means there is a 4-hour window that you’ll be able to dig a hole. Be sure to check the tides before you go.
- You can rent a shovel for NZ $10 at the small shop at the beach entrance.
- There is an outdoor shower near the beach entrance, where you can rinse off. Yes, you will get sandy. There are bathrooms and changing rooms too.
30. Tour a glow worm cave
Technically not “worms”, these gnat larvae tend to live in caves or humid, sheltered forests, and are known for the alluring blueish glow they give off.
Nerdy Fact: To catch food, the larvae create a series of strings (think spider webs) that dangle downward, kind of like a “fishing line”. Then they deliberately glow (from a chemical reaction, not magic, sadly) to attract prey.
There are many ways to see glowworms in New Zealand. You can go on an organized cave tour or you can try your luck at spotting them on your own (for free!).
Waitomo or Te Anau Caves
These are the most popular glowworm caves in the country (Waitomo in the North Island and Te Anau in the South). They are very similar in price and tour options. Both use artificial lighting in places, and are the more “touristy” options for seeing glowworms.
Nikau Cave & Cafe
A great alternative to Waitomo Caves, this is a way to see glowworms in a place off-the-beaten-path in a much less crowded environment. We’ve also heard rave reviews about the onsite cafe.
UnderWorld Tubing Glowworm Tour
We had the most incredible glowworm experience on New Zealand’s West Coast with UnderWorld Adventures, and would highly recommend going cave rafting with them if you want to see glowworms in a natural, less-touristy experience!
Free trails on the West Coast
Along the South Island’s West Coast, you’ll find a handful of trails that boast glowworms at night. The display certainly isn’t as impressive as those you’ll find in the caves listed above, but they are free! There are trails in Franz Josef and Hokitika for starters.
Heads up: Unless you have special photography equipment, it is very difficult to capture how magical the glowworms look in a photograph.
31. Visit Hobbiton
If you’re a fan of the Lord of the Rings a visit to Hobbiton is likely already on your list.
But even if you’ve seen the movies years ago and may have fallen asleep *umm, this may or may not have happened to me*, it can still be fun to see the adorable Hobbit homes on this movie set.
This 2-hour tour is more or less a guided walk through “The Shire”, with stops for everyone in the tour group to take turns snapping pictures in front of Hobbit homes. #itsforthegram
Real Talk: We were personally a bit disappointed by Hobbiton. We had a good time overall, but it didn’t exceed our expectations like so many other things in New Zealand. One of the major reasons is we felt extremely rushed during the tour.
For example, when we got to the final stop, the Green Dragon Pub, we were happy to find out we’d get a complimentary beer and the chance to look around a bit. But then our guide told us we had just 15 minutes or we’d miss our bus. Major Buzzkill. They have to shuttle through as many as 5,000 guests per day, so I can understand why.
Oh, and just so you know ahead of time and aren’t disappointed… (Spoiler Alert!) Those Hobbit homes are just doors. Like, there is nothing behind them, which kind of ruined some of the magic for me.
Our advice: If you’re traveling around the North Island and have the time (and interest!), by all means go! But if you’re tight on time and are debating whether or not to visit, we don’t think you’d be missing too much if you can’t squeeze it in.
Insider tip: We have heard The Evening Banquet Tour is a fantastic experience (and is much less rushed). However, it is quite a bit more expensive than the normal tour, at NZ $195, so it’s not for everyone. Plus, it does book up well in advance.
32. Watch a rugby match
Hey there, Sports Fans!
If you’re lucky enough to be traveling to New Zealand during Rugby season (early June – early October), don’t miss the chance to get seats to a match.
The New Zealand All Blacks are one of the most well-known and highly-respected teams in the world, and seeing them play in person would surely be a highlight, even if you don’t know much about rugby. They play matches in Auckland, Wellington, Dunedin and Nelson.
Ben’s 3 siblings all played rugby at the collegiate level (he’s the only oddball American football player). So it’s safe to say his family is big into this sport.
He was a little (a LOT!) bummed that there were no matches going on during our trip (November – December). If you’re lucky enough to see a match, let Ben know so he can live vicariously through your experience!
33. See glaciers up close
New Zealand has more than 3,000 glaciers around the country, and if you plan on traveling around the South Island, you’ll have the opportunity to get quite close to several.
Franz Josef Glacier, Fox Glacier and Hooker Glacier are three of the most accessible glaciers in New Zealand, and the best part is you can view these natural wonders on your own, totally free.
That said, if you have the time and budget, there are some pretty exciting glacier tours you can book:
- Book a guided walk where a naturalist will explain the area and its unique landscape to you in much greater detail than you’ll ever get on your own. We did this and learned a ton!
- If you want to get up close and personal with the glaciers, you can book a glacier hike where you’ll strap on crampons and actually walk on top of the ice. (We did this on a glacier in Iceland and had a great experience!)
- Alternatively, you can take a helicopter ride and fly over these massive marvels. We did this and have more info in the next suggestion on this list. (The one we suggested in the link above includes a snow landing, so you can get out!)
34. Take a scenic helicopter ride
There are plenty of opportunities to see New Zealand from the sky!
Soar above Milford Sound, land on Fox Glacier, or see the turquoise waters of the Bay of Islands from above. This country truly has its fair share of opportunities to sightsee from a helicopter.
Our experience: It was our first time in a helicopter when we went up over Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers and it was nothing short of amazing. We had smiles on our faces the whole time as we cruised top of the glaciers. Our only complaint is that the experience is pretty short. If you have the budget for it, (starting at $270 NZD per adult) we highly recommend taking a flight.
Insider Tip: Try to schedule this experience earlier on in your trip and in a location where you’ll be spending a few days if possible. This will give you some wiggle room if bad weather means your flight needs to be postponed.
35. Explore New Zealand’s exciting big cities
I’m going to give it to you straight: Nobody travels to New Zealand only to explore the cities.
Truly, our favorite parts of this country are the epic nature and smaller cities (like Queenstown and Wanaka), and I suspect it will be similar for you, too. That’s what we’ve mostly focused on in this list.
That said, it’s likely that you’ll spend at least some time in larger cities while in New Zealand, and you may even be pleasantly surprised.
Auckland
You’ll likely be spending time in New Zealand’s most populated city at the beginning or end of your trip. And while there are other NZ cities we like better, there’s a lot to do here and it’s worth a couple days of exploring.
Things to do in Auckland:
- Wander Albert Park in the city center
- Spot the iconic Sky Tower in Auckland’s skyline (reminiscent of the Space Needle in Seattle)
- If you’re feeling adventurous, you can “sky jump” from here!
- Escape the city and walk the lush trails of Rangitoto Island
- Take a day trip to Waiheke Island for wine, oysters and beaches
- Sample cuisine from around the Pacific Rim
- Take a free walking tour and learn about New Zealand’s history
- Indulge in an ice cream cone from Giapo
- See sunset from the volcanic crater, Mount Eden
Want more ideas? We have a complete guide to Auckland
Christchurch
We didn’t spend much time in Christchurch at all – we wanted to spend as much time as possible in the countryside, so we pretty much picked up our campervan rental and split. But we’ve heard there are some cool things to do here, so if you have a day to kill here are some things to add to your list.
Things to do in Christchurch:
- Take a gander at the cardboard church, which was constructed quickly following the 2011 earthquake to give people a place to worship
- Experience a slice of the world’s 7th continent at the International Antarctic Centre
- Wander the trails and botanical gardens in Hagley Park
- Learn about New Zealand’s rich cultural and natural heritage at the Canterbury Museum
- Spot street art in Christchurch’s funky city center
Wellington
Wellington is New Zealand’s capital, and our favorite big city in the country. With a quirky, hipster vibe, lots of green space, and an excellent food and bar scene, Wellington is a city that shouldn’t be missed.
Things to do in Wellington:
- Visit Te Papa Museum, one of New Zealand’s most popular museums
- Hike to the Mount Victoria Lookout
- Explore the Wellington Botanical Garden
- Sample some local brews at one of the many local breweries
- Hit up the local hot spots and cafes on Cuba Street
Want more ideas? We have a complete guide to Wellington
Dunedin
This is a city we skipped on our New Zealand trip (we couldn’t see it all!). But if you find yourself in the area and looking for things to do, here are some suggestions.
Things to do in Dunedin:
- Spot the world’s smallest penguins at the Dunedin blue penguin colony
- Keep your eyes peeled for Dunedin’s famously quirky architecture
- Walk up Baldwin Street, the steepest street in the world
- Drive the Otago Peninsula
- Follow the famous Dunedin Street Art Trail
36. Go on one of NZ’s famed multi-day ‘Great Walks’
If you’re a true hiking enthusiast and are willing to spare a handful of days on your New Zealand itinerary, consider adding one of the famous “Great Walks” to your trip.
Ranging from 2-6 days, these multi-day treks require a good deal of planning, booking huts in advance and packing proper gear. But those who put in the effort will be rewarded with some of the most spectacular sights in the whole country.
Completing the 10 New Zealand Great Walks is on many a New Zealander’s bucket list!
37. Set foot on Cape Reinga
Cape Reinga is the point where the Pacific Ocean meets the Tasman Sea in a swirl of currents. Located at the tippy top of New Zealand’s North Island, this is the northernmost point you can go in the country.
Fun Fact: North Cape is a scientific reserve and located just slightly further north, but it is not open to the public.
At the edge of the cape, there is a tree believed to be more than 800 years old. According to Maori legend, this is the spot where spirits of people who have recently passed jump into the water and begin their journey to Hawaiki, their ancestral homeland.
We wanted to make it up to Cape Reinga, but due to limited time and having about a million other places we also wanted to see, we just didn’t make it here. We definitely want to try to get up to Cape Reinga on our next trip to New Zealand.
38. Photograph the iconic Wanaka Tree
You’ve likely seen photos of this famously lonely tree that stands by itself in the waters of Lake Wanaka.
Known sarcastically as That Wanaka Tree, it is definitely a sight you’ll want to take in with your own eyes because FOMO. (Here’s the exact location.)
It’s picturesque, yes, but unless you’re a professional photographer, it’s not worth more than a couple of minutes and a few snaps of your camera.
I’ll warn you that this popular photo spot gets crowded. And like most “photo spots”, people can be pretty disrespectful – like the guy who waded out into the water while we were there and stayed out there for a good 5 minutes so he was in everyone’s photo. When he finally left, he was met with applause from annoyed people waiting on the shore. Don’t be that guy.
This is certainly the most famous spot in Wanaka and worth checking out, but it’s far from the only thing to do here. After you’re done getting your shot, here are some more ideas…
More cool things to do in Wanaka:
- Wander the Wanaka Lavender Farm
- Hike Roy’s Peak or Isthmus Peak
- Enjoy a glass of wine at Rippon Winery
- Explore Mount Aspiring National Park
- Walk the Mount Iron Track to get a view over town
- Enjoy a movie at the cute Cinema Paradiso, which features sofas, freshly baked cookies and intermission
39. Carve your own jade necklace
For a unique souvenir and truly once-in-a-lifetime experience, carve your own jade necklace and learn about the beautiful process behind these famous pieces of jewelry.
You don’t need to spend much time in New Zealand to see jade necklaces dangling from the necks of about half the people you meet. And at every souvenir shop in the country, you’ll see these pieces for sale.*
*Insider Info: If you see jade necklaces at souvenir shops selling for really cheap, they are not real. They are ground up pieces of stone (or worse yet, plastic!) molded into a design.
Carving jade is an important part of Maori culture, and many of the designs you see around the country have a special meaning to New Zealand’s indigenous people.
You’ll start with a piece of greenstone (or jade), and you will use a variety of different tools and machines to carve it down to your own design.
Even if you’re not artistically inclined (umm, have you met Ben?!), this activity is really fun. And the instructors are great at helping you create the piece you have in mind.
Tip: We’d recommend clearing out your whole morning and early afternoon, as this activity can take quite a while. Some people are quick, while others (I’m raising my hand!) are slow. We had an activity scheduled in the early afternoon and felt rushed. We had to leave before we were truly happy with our finished piece.
Do it yourself: Located in the artisan town of Hokitika, Bonz N Stonz is a small shop that offers visitors the unique experience of carving their own jade necklace with the help of expert artists.
Cost: Jade carving starts at NZ $190 (you can carve other materials including bones and shells, both materials found on washed up on the beach)
40. Find Lord of the Rings filming locations
If you’re a LOTR fan, you’ll definitely want to hunt for the trilogy’s filming locations around the country. There are many, and truthfully, I think simply being in the country that inspired such a world is pretty spectacular.
But if you want a few ideas of actual filming locations, here are some to start with:
- The Shire movie set at Hobbiton
- Tongariro National Park was used as a backdrop of Mordor
- The woods surrounding Mount Victoria in Wellington appear in the trilogy as the Hobbiton woods
- Putangirua Pinnacles near Wellington were the Paths of the Dead
41. Relax in a surf town (or take a lesson!)
New Zealand has surprisingly good surf, and along with good surf comes cute and sleepy surf towns.
Soak up those funky hippie vibes from the shore or zip up your own wetsuit and hit the waves.
We loved the little surf town of Piha, which is just a short drive from Auckland (definitely worth a night or two!).
We’ve also heard great things about Raglan, which is situated on the North Island’s west coast (not far from Hamilton) and is known as the epicenter of surfing in New Zealand.
Want to learn how to surf? Book a lesson with a pro and you’ll be standing up on your board in no time!
42. Catch a salmon and eat it
Located just outside of Abel Tasman National Park, Anatoki Salmon Fishing & Cafe is one of the most unique dining experiences you can have in New Zealand.
At this salmon farm, you are given all the gear you need free of charge (pole, bait, cooler, etc.). Cast your line into the waters that are stocked with salmon (aka you have a pretty great advantage and a good chance of catching one!).
One you have a keeper on your hook, you’ll bring it to the cafe where you’ll pay $35 per kg to have it cooked to your liking.
You can order it hot smoked or sashimi style and you can choose seasonings, like lemon & pepper and ginger & coriander, as well as sides. You can’t get much fresher than that! Plus, it’s an all around fun experience.
We (erm… Ben) caught a salmon that weighed 1.2 kilos and it cost $42 NZD. We split it between us and a friend, and with a side of garlic bread, it was a perfect lunch.
Details:
- open 7 days a week
- 9am – 4:30pm (last entry is at 4:15pm)
- Google Maps location
43. Experience the majesty of Mount Taranaki
Located on the west coast of New Zealand’s North Island between the cities of Wellington and Hamilton, Mount Taranaki is the stuff photographers dream about.
This perfectly cone-shaped volcano is the epitome of symmetry. Add to that a small mirror-like reflection pool at its base, and you can understand why Mt. Taranaki is an Instagram favorite.
We weren’t able to make it here on our first trip to NZ, but it’s a the top of our list for next time!
Insider Tip: If you’re up for an adventure, hike in to Pouakai Hut to spend the night. You’ll be able to get some excellent shots since you can take advantage of the late night and early morning lighting.
44. Hunt for lupin fields
If you’re traveling around the South Island in the spring or summer months (mid-November through early January), you will no doubt see lupins lining portions of the road or hugging the shores of glacial lakes.
These stunning flowers bloom from early spring into the summer months, and their vibrant purple and pink hues are enough to make you pull over to the side of the road for an impromptu photo shoot (guilty as charged!).
So where can you see them? You’ll be able to find lupins in the Southern Alps, Lake Tekapo is the most famous spot to see them, but keep your eyes peeled as you drive and there’s a good chance you’ll spot a random field or two.
45. Get truly off the beaten path
If you’re looking to truly explore places few tourists see, add one of the least-visited places in the country to your New Zealand itinerary. (Or save these ideas for your second or third visit!)
Stewart Island
Located 30 kilometers south of New Zealand’s South Island, Steward Island is a perfect place to get away from civilization. This remote island is known for excellent bird spotting, hiking, stargazing, and the peace that comes with being on an island with just 400 permanent residents.
Great Barrier Island
For picture perfect beaches, untouched forests and secluded bays, Great Barrier Island is a place to get away from it all. This tropical-feeling island is completely off-grid and has a population of 1,000 people. Getting here requires a 4.5 ferry ride from Auckland or a 30-minute flight.
How many days do you need in New Zealand?
Now that we have shared all the fun things to do in New Zealand, you’re probably wondering how you’re to fit it all in? AmIright??
This is a tough one to answer because even a lifetime wouldn’t be enough. Seriously.
We spent 5 weeks traveling around New Zealand in a campervan, and we’ve been lucky enough to experience a lot of what this country has to offer. Even so, we still left with a loooong list of things to do “next time”.
That said, we do have some suggestions based on the amount of time you have to explore New Zealand:
1 Week New Zealand: If you have just one week, we recommend focusing on a specific area. Base yourself in a city like Queenstown or Auckland and plan for a couple of day trips.
2 Weeks New Zealand: Choose one island to explore. We have perfect 2-week itineraries ready-to-go for both the North Island and South Island. All the hard work is done for you!
1 Month New Zealand: We think a month is ideal for your first trip to New Zealand. You’ll have the time to experience a good chunk of the country’s must-sees and hidden gems (we have lots!).
Perfect 1 month New Zealand itinerary
Raise your hand if you don’t want to spend hours of time researching and you just want all the info right at your fingertips!
If your hand is up, keep reading…
If you like the research, all the power to you! Feel free to use our itinerary outlines as a starting point as well as our destination guides for ideas of things to do (we’ve got a bunch of them!):
- South Island New Zealand Itinerary: Epic 2-Week Road Trip
- North Island New Zealand: 2-Week Itinerary
- Planning a Campervan Trip in New Zealand: Ultimate Guide
- Exciting Things to Do in New Zealand on Your First Visit
- Things to Know Before Traveling in New Zealand
But if you want to save some hours of your life, we’ve already put in more than enough for you and us combined. Trust us.
And we’re happy to share everything we learned — from digging through reviews, Youtube and all sorts of Internet rabbit holes, as well as actually traveling in New Zealand by campervan for 5 weeks!
We’ve curated what we think is the perfect New Zealand road trip, and we want you to be able to copy our route!
In this 1-month itinerary, you’ll find:
- Can’t miss sights and experiences
- Where to eat
- Where to stay (whether you’re camping or doing hotels)
- Insider Tips
- Suggestions for extending this trip
We’ve spent hours of research putting this all together, just for you!
In full transparency, this is a paid itinerary since it has taken an incredible amount of time for us to create.
However, we keep all of our paid itineraries affordable – just $15 for an entire 1-month itinerary. We think this is an incredible value considering almost all your planning will be done for you!
Best time to visit New Zealand
The best time to visit New Zealand largely depends on your preferences and the activities you have in mind.
Spring (December – February) is ideal if you’re a photography enthusiast. Marked by warming temperatures and longer days, spring also coincides with the stunning lupin season that captivates photographers.
Summer (January – March) is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, offering long, sunny days for hiking and leisurely beach activities.
Fall (March – May) is a sweet spot, allowing you to avoid high-season crowds and prices while still enjoying comfortable temperatures and ample daylight for various outdoor adventures.
Winter (June – August) is excellent for winter sports, such as skiing and snowboarding, with the added advantage of discounted rates and fewer crowds.
Our personal pick would be to plan your New Zealand itinerary during the shoulder season between spring and summer (November/December).
For an in-depth guide on the regional seasons, weather patterns, and other factors, check out our complete guide to the best time to visit New Zealand.
How to get around New Zealand
Though public transportation in New Zealand is pretty good, having your own set of wheels is hands-down the best way to explore the country for a few reasons:
- You can see hidden gems and get off the beaten path.
- You’ll be able to travel on your own schedule, and getting from point A to point B is faster.
- Driving in New Zealand is easy and parking is plentiful.
Now that we’ve established you’re renting a vehicle, you might be wondering, car or campervan?
We have a whole section in our New Zealand itinerary planning guide about which vehicle rental option is best for your travel style.
If you already know which type of vehicle you prefer, check out our guides below for more planning help:
- Best Campervan Rental in New Zealand: Ultimate Guide
- Car Rental in New Zealand: Essential Guide + Tips
Cook Strait Ferry
The Cook Strait Ferry operates between the North and South Islands in New Zealand, connecting the cities of Wellington and Picton. The ferry service provides both passenger and vehicle transportation, making it a vital link for travelers exploring both islands.
Not only is it an efficient way to get from one island to the other (especially if you are traveling by campervan or car), the ferry is an iconic journey across the Cook Strait with incredible views. Many people believe it’s the most scenic ferry crossing in the world!
Tips for visiting New Zealand
After spending more than a month traveling around New Zealand in a campervan, I will say there were a lot of things that surprised us about the country.
For example, we had no clue just how awful the Internet in New Zealand would be. And we weren’t quite prepared for all the Kiwi slang… What are they even saying?!
So we put together a complete guide on things to know before traveling to New Zealand on your first trip. Be sure to give it a read before you arrive as there are some great tips in there about preparing for your travels.
What to pack for a trip to New Zealand
We know it can be overwhelming packing for a trip to a new destination. That’s why we spent hours creating this super helpful PDF just for you.
In this FREE New Zealand packing list PDF download, we’ve provided packing checklists for everything from clothing and toiletries (for both women and men!) to what shoes to pack and extra medicines you may want to have on-hand just in case.
Plus, we’re sharing tons of packing hacks and tips for traveling in New Zealand that you won’t find anywhere else!
Round up of the best things to do in New Zealand
Here’s a recap of all the best things to do in New Zealand so you can see everything in one place.
- Swimming with wild dolphins
- Fergburger
- Bungy jumping
- Māori Culture
- Milford Sound
- Mountain huts
- #Vanlife
- Hiking
- Golden kiwis
- Jet boat ride
- Wine tasting
- Whale watching
- Tongariro Alpine Crossing
- Scenic drives
- Hot springs
- New Zealand foods
- Queenstown luge
- Waterfalls
- Cathedral Cove
- Fish n’ chips
- Beaches
- Zorbing
- Bird watching
- Waiheke Island
- Star gazing
- Sea kayaking
- West Coast
- Rotorua
- Hot Water Beach
- Glow worm caves
- Hobbiton
- Rugby
- Glaciers
- Helicopter ride
- Cities
- Great Walks
- Cape Reinga
- Wanaka
- Jade necklace carving
- Lord of the Rings filming locations
- Surfing
- Salmon fishing
- Mount Taranaki
- Lupin fields
- Stewart & Great Barrier Islands
Are you planning a trip to New Zealand?
We have TONS of resources on travel in New Zealand and destinations throughout the country. Check out our Ultimate New Zealand Travel Guide for all the answers to your most burning questions, or read some of our favorite articles below.
- Adventurous Things to Do in Queenstown
- Incredible New Zealand Hikes + Local Tips!
- Money-Saving Tips for New Zealand
- Ultimate New Zealand Packing List
Be sure to check out our ultimate one month New Zealand itinerary to save time and energy and have your trip planned for you!
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We want to hear from you!
Which of these things to do in New Zealand is at the top of your bucket list? Do you have any other questions about planning a trip? Comment below and we’ll do our best to get you the information you need!
Thank you for taking the time to create such a useful resource.
“Thank you for this exceptional website! The content here is incredibly insightful and has helped me immensely. I appreciate the dedication and hard work that went into making it.”
Very informative article buddy
Very interesting and helpful post with amazing photos. Thanks for the share.
You did not mention which island(north or south) you were on the excursions. Which one would you recommend?
Hi Guys, we’re hoping to travel to NZ in december this year! Looks like it’s going to happen! So thanks for sharing was really great info!
i love your story
As a Kiwi – this is a really great list of all the wonderful things to do in our country. Obviously there are so many more and New Zealand has enormous depth which could keep you busy for a lifetime, but for anyone looking for a great introduction – this is it. I hope that more people from overseas spend time going through what you’ve suggested (rather than some of the more bland tourist operator websites).
Maybe the only thing that doesn’t come through from reading this (which I would suspect is something you’d support), is that potential visitors looking to do more scenic and outdoorsy stuff should focus on the South Island and spend more time there (and the urbanites should focus on the North). Great work, thanks for sharing!
Looks fun!
a better hot water beach option – walk 15km into Hot Water Beach at Lake Tarawera (you can take something to cook in the very hot pool!) and have a water taxi pick you up from there OR just water taxi there and back if you don’t want the hike. OR take a float plane from Lake Rotorua to Lake Rotoiti to enjoy no road access hot pools (you can also arrange for a water taxi from Okere Falls).
This is so amazing. I appreciate your honest opinions on places and pictures. We really don’t wan’t to see ‘tourist traps’ as much as the real country, nature, experiences, and people. This helps, although it will be hard to make cuts for about 3 weeks early Nov 2021. We (4) really don’t want to be driving every day. Need time to relax and enjoy. Do you have a copy of your ‘schedule’? We are currently working with a ‘planner’? who would set up reservations but we choose what we want to do (twerking her proposal). Not sure if it is a savings or not.
Thanks Billie for your nice comment! We have a 30-day itinerary all mapped out in a nice and neat PDF. If you enter your email here, we’ll send you the downloadable itinerary right away: https://landing.mailerlite.com/webforms/landing/j0o7b1
Let us know if we can help out with anything else! Cheers!
Thanks so much! We are planning a visit to New Zealand as a bucket list/now-we’re-empty-nesters trip. This was a great article. I appreciate it!
Brilliant page and really informative. Thanks!
Thanks so much, glad it was helpful!
What An Incredible Trip …Thank You for sharing…My Husband and I definitely have the bug to go Now!
Thanks a lot! We already want to go back haha!
Did you do these things on one trip? How did you get around and how long would this all take?
Hi Sara, besides watching a rugby match (unfortunately it was not the season) and whale watching (our tour was canceled because of rough seas), we did all these activities in the span of 5 weeks. It was a busy but wonderful trip! We traveled in a campervan, which we highly recommend, and have tons of info on how to do it on our site!
Great post, very exciting and super-helpful! (1) Did you do these activities in different seasons, or mostly one season? (Asking because of down jackets but also bathing suits!) (2) Did you have any problems with sand flies?–if yes, where and how much of an issue? Thank you!
Hi Diane, we traveled to New Zealand for about 5 weeks from mid-November to mid-December (New Zealand’s spring/early summer). It definitely got cool in some parts of the south island, but it also got warm in the north.
We only had a few bouts with sandflies, but not many. The worst was down by the river at the Hokitika Gorge. We could only be there long enough to take a picture and run away, haha!