Things to Do in New Zealand for the Best Experience

Experience the magic of Middle-earth with a visit to Hobbiton, the iconic film set from "The Lord of the Rings" and "The Hobbit" trilogies. Located in Matamata, this picturesque site offers guided tours where you can explore the lush pastures, hobbit holes, and the famous Green Dragon Inn. The attention to detail is incredible, making it a must-visit for fans and anyone enchanted by this fantastical world. Visiting Hobbiton is one of the top things to do and see in New Zealand.

The Waitomo Caves are tucked away beneath the lush hills of Waitomo along the north-western section of the North Island of New Zealand. The caves are also famous for the glow worms that inhabit them. Thousands of glow worms in the caves that rivers run through glow bright blue and eerily through the velvet darkness of the cave, creating a magical experience described by many as New Zealand’s best natural attraction. Take a guided tour through these limestone caves, marvel at the impressive formations, and enjoy a boat ride under the glowworm-studded ceiling.

Best Time: November to February

Kaikoura, which lies on the east coast of the South Island of New Zealand, is the perfect place for a weekend getaway from the cities of Picton or Christchurch. It is a prime location for whale watching, thanks to its unique marine environment. You can see various kinds of whales, including sperm, orcas, humpback, and even the mighty blue whales! You could also book a tour to swim in the ocean with these gentle, harmless giants. There are multiple whale and dolphin spotting tours that operate here, both on boats and on choppers!

Best Time: December to March

Known For : Te Puia Polynesian Spa Waimangu Volcanic Valley

Situated near the centre of North Island, Taupo is perched on the banks of Lake Taupo, which sits on the caldera of the Taupo volcano. The lake sits inside a crater created by a massive volcanic eruption that was so large that the amount of ash released into the air caused the skies in Europe and China to darken and lowered the global temperatures.

Best Time: March to May

46 Rotorua Attractions

The Southern Lights, or Aurora Australis, is a mesmerizing natural light display visible from southern parts of New Zealand, particularly Stewart Island and the Otago Peninsula. The best time to see this phenomenon is during the winter months when the nights are the longest, and the skies are the darkest. Chasing the Southern Lights is an unforgettable thing to do in New Zealand.

Situated in the southwest of the South Island of New Zealand, Milford Sound is a fiord belonging to the Fiordland National Park. It is often described as the "eighth wonder of the world." Take a cruise through this stunning fiord to see towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and diverse wildlife, including seals and penguins. The dramatic scenery is unforgettable, making it a top thing to do and see in New Zealand. 

New Zealand is the home of bungy jumping, and there are several iconic spots to take the plunge. The Kawarau Bridge in Queenstown is the world’s first commercial bungy site, offering a 43-meter jump over the stunning Kawarau River. For a more intense experience, try the Nevis Bungy, with a thrilling 134-meter drop. 

The lone willow tree emerging from the waters of Lake Wanaka has become one of New Zealand’s most photographed spots. Known as the Wanaka Tree, it’s a symbol of beauty and resilience. Visit at sunrise or sunset for the best light and most stunning photos. Capturing the Wanaka Tree is a picturesque thing to do in New Zealand.

Best Time: June to August

New Zealand's clear skies and low light pollution make it a premier destination for stargazing. The Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve is one of the best spots, offering breathtaking views of the Milky Way, Southern Cross, and Magellanic Clouds. You can join a guided stargazing tour to see planets and distant galaxies and learn about the southern night sky.

Waiheke is a fabulous island just a short ferry ride from Auckland. Famous for its rows and rows of vineyards and olive farms, Waiheke Island is home to some of New Zealand's most celebrated wineries. Spend a day exploring the island’s wineries, tasting world-class wines, and enjoying gourmet food. The island’s relaxed atmosphere and beautiful beaches make it a perfect day trip and a delightful thing to do in New Zealand.

New Zealand’s Great Walks are renowned for their breathtaking scenery and well-maintained trails. Popular routes include the Milford Track, Routeburn Track, and Tongariro Northern Circuit. These multi-day hikes offer an immersive way to experience New Zealand’s diverse landscapes, from alpine vistas to lush forests. 

No trip to Queenstown is complete without trying a Fergburger. This legendary burger joint has gained a cult following for its delicious and generously sized burgers. Expect long queues, but the wait is worth it for a taste of one of New Zealand’s best burgers. 

Located on the Coromandel Peninsula, Hot Water Beach is a unique destination where you can dig your own hot pool in the sand. Natural hot springs filter up through the sand, creating a perfect spot to relax and unwind. Carry your own spade and shovel,  or you can rent one from the cafes on the beach. It is also great for surfing. Visiting Hot Water Beach is one of the must-do things to do in New Zealand.

Cathedral Cove, on the Coromandel Peninsula, is one of New Zealand's most picturesque spots. Visit early in the morning to catch the sunrise illuminating the natural rock arch and golden sands. The walk to the cove takes about 45 minutes and is worth every step for the stunning views. This is a top thing to do and see in New Zealand.

Best Time: December to March

Immerse yourself in Maori culture with a visit to Rotorua, a hub of cultural experiences. Attend a traditional hangi feast, enjoy a cultural performance, and visit Te Puia to see the geothermal wonders and the Maori Arts and Crafts Institute. Learning about Maori culture is a rich and rewarding thing to do in New Zealand.

The Poor Knights Islands Marine Reserve offers one of the best scuba diving in the world. The warm currents and clear waters create a vibrant underwater ecosystem teeming with marine life. Explore sea caves, archways, and diverse marine species, making it a diver's paradise. Diving at the Poor Knights Islands is one of the exciting things to do in New Zealand.

The Tongariro Alpine Crossing is considered one of the best one-day hikes in the world. This 19.4 km trek takes you through dramatic volcanic landscapes, past steaming vents, colorful crater lakes, and ancient lava flows. The views are spectacular, with highlights including the Emerald Lakes and Red Crater. This hike is a top thing to do in New Zealand for adventure seekers.

Known For : Huka Falls Craters of the Moon Taupo Mine Bay Maori Rock Carvings

Situated near the centre of North Island, Taupo is perched on the banks of Lake Taupo, which sits on the caldera of the Taupo volcano. The lake sits inside a crater created by a massive volcanic eruption that was so large that the amount of ash released into the air caused the skies in Europe and China to darken and lowered the global temperatures.

Best Time: November to February

19 Taupo Attractions

Cape Reinga, at the northern tip of New Zealand, is a place of stunning natural beauty and cultural significance. The iconic lighthouse offers panoramic views where the Tasman Sea meets the Pacific Ocean. It’s a sacred site for the Maori, who believe it’s the departing point for spirits on their journey to the afterlife. Visiting Cape Reinga is a spiritual and scenic thing to do in New Zealand.

Best Time: December - February

New Zealand offers numerous scenic drives that showcase its diverse landscapes. The Pacific Coast Highway, running from Auckland to Napier, offers stunning coastal views. The Southern Scenic Route, from Dunedin to Invercargill, takes you through rugged coastlines and lush rainforests. Don’t miss the Crown Range Road, the highest main road in New Zealand, linking Queenstown and Wanaka with breathtaking mountain views. Scenic drives are a relaxing and beautiful thing to do and see in New Zealand.

Fiordland National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a must-visit destination in New Zealand, renowned for its dramatic landscapes and stunning fiords. The park's highlights include the majestic Milford Sound, often called the "eighth wonder of the world," and the tranquil Doubtful Sound, both offering breathtaking scenery and abundant wildlife. Fiordland's renowned hiking trails, such as the Milford, Kepler, and Routeburn Tracks, provide immersive ways to explore its diverse ecosystems. Scenic drives, like the Milford Road, offer spectacular views of mountains, valleys, and rivers. Wildlife enthusiasts can enjoy sightings of rare birds, dolphins, seals, and penguins. 

Enjoying fish ‘n chips by the beach is a quintessential New Zealand experience. Freshly caught fish, crispy golden chips, and a seaside setting make for a perfect meal. Try local favorites like blue cod or snapper, and savor this classic Kiwi dish. Eating fish ‘n chips is a delicious thing to do in New Zealand.

Encounter wild dolphins in their natural habitat in places like Kaikoura and the Bay of Islands. Join a guided tour for a chance to swim alongside these playful creatures. Interacting with dolphins in the wild is an exhilarating and humbling experience, making it a unique thing to do in New Zealand.

The West Coast of the South Island is often overlooked but offers some of New Zealand’s most rugged and dramatic landscapes. Visit Punakaiki to see the Pancake Rocks and Blowholes, explore the Franz Josef and Fox glaciers, and drive through the stunning Haast Pass. The West Coast’s wild beauty is truly captivating.

Kepler Track is a 60km tramping track opened in 1988. It is planned to showcase the best features of Fiordland, including moss-draped beech forest, prolific birdlife, tussock high country, huge mountain ranges, cascading waterfalls, vast glacier-carved valleys, luxuriant river flats, limestone formations, and more. The track is one of New Zealand's Great Walks and is administered by the New Zealand Department of Conservation (DOC).

Te Anau caves are outside the town of Te Anau in the southernmost region, the Southland. At only 12,000 years old, they are the youngest caves in New Zealand. You can visit the caves across the Te Anau lake. A boat ride inside the caves lets you witness the amazing sight of glow worms on the ceiling above your head in a calm and peaceful environment.

The Milford Track is a one way Great Walk extending for 53.5 km. You can enjoy walking and tramping over a span of 4 days. The Great Walk tracks are popular all over the world for the well-formed paths which can be easily followed. Depending on the terrain, the tracks are wide enough at some places to fit two people walking side by side. The surface is generally dirt, rock or gravel and may get slippery during the rains. There are hill climbs with steeper tracks and splendid views. As you walk to retrace the steps of early explorers, experience one of the finest walks in the world.

Lapped in between two other major cities, Rotorua and Tauranga, at an equidistance of 90 kilometres, Whakatane is an urban township of New Zealand that has become a major tourist attraction for people worldwide. At the Ohope Scenic Reserve, Mountain Biking along the Burma Road or the Whirinaki Forest Mountain Bike Track, Relax in the Awakeri Hot Springs, and Visit the White Goose Winery, which specializes in growing some rare breed fruits.

Queenstown has some of the best locations to experience thrilling whitewater rafting, which also happens to be the best way to explore Queenstown's rivers. Queenstown is an adventure hub that initiated rafting right from the start, i.e., since the 1970s, to be precise. Water rafting is the best option for those who seek some passionate adventure. Many operators provide tour packages along with breathtaking rafting rides.

New Zealand’s dramatic landscapes served as the backdrop for many scenes in "The Lord of the Rings" and "The Hobbit" trilogies. Visit iconic filming locations such as Mount Sunday (Edoras), Tongariro National Park (Mordor), and Fiordland National Park. Join a guided tour for insider knowledge and a deeper appreciation of these cinematic sites.