Top 10 Places to Visit in New Zealand

New Zealand—or Aotearoa in the Māori (which translates to the “land of the long white cloud”)—is a place that adventure-lovers dream about. With snow-capped mountains, enchanting fiords, spectacular waterfalls, dense forests and thriving towns, New Zealand is an outdoor haven. 

On a thrill-seeking trip to New Zealand you can hike up volcanoes, paddle past fjords, visit Lord-of-the-Rings-inspired landscapes, peruse local farmer’s markets, learn the Māori way of life, view the oddest flightless birds on the planet, and sip world-class sauvignon blanc.

Below, check out the 10 spots you won’t want to miss and join the adventure here.

Overview

1. Fiordland National Park
2. Wānaka
3. Rotorua
4. Auckland
5. Wellington
6. Tongariro National Park
7. Abel Tasman National Park
8. Marlborough Wine Region
9. Waiheke Island
10. Whirinaki Forest

Top 10 Places to Visit in New Zealand

1. Fiordland National Park

Fiordland is a top destination in New Zealand

No amount of Instagram posts will prepare you for what lies beyond the lake-laden land of Queenstown: Fiordland. Located on the South Island, Fiordland National Park is the largest of the 13 National Parks in New Zealand. It is also one of the most dramatic. It’s a place where towering peaks, labyrinthine waterways, gushing waterfalls, and ancient forests merge.

What exactly is a fiord?: A fiord (or fjord) is a long, deep, narrow glacially-carved body of water. There are only a few places in the world where these ever-evolving geological wonders exist including: Alaska, Chile, Norway, Iceland, Greenland and New Zealand.

Key Attractions: Milford Sound, Routeburn Track, Kepler Track, Te Anau

Things to do in Fiordland National Park:

The UNESCO World Heritage-listed park is a nature-lover’s paradise. It is home to 14 fiords as well as 3 out of New Zealand’s 10 Great Walks: The Milford, The Kepler and (my personal favorite), The Routeburn. There are tons of options for exploring the park at your own speed and challenge level.

• Take a Boat Cruise on Milford Sound: Whether you want to spend hours or days exploring Fiordland, we recommend a visit to Milford Sound. Milford Sound is the only fiord in the park connected by the road system, granting visitors unparalleled access to a rugged and unspoiled paradise. The drive alone is worth the trip (you’ll want to pull over every 5 minutes for pictures), but the real treat is getting out on the water. The remote, glacially-carved fiord travels 16km from land out to the Tasman Sea. Hop on a boat cruise to snap shots of cascading waterfalls, and steep cliffs. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife including seals, dolphins, and (if you’re lucky) crested penguins.
• Hike Key Summit on the Routeburn Track: Spend as much time as possible on the Routeburn Track. This epic alpine adventure winds through the Southern Alps, offering a wild and remote journey. While the full 33km trek takes approximately three days to complete, Key Summit offers a bite-sized dose of alpine adrenaline and is not to be missed.
• Day Hike the Kepler Track: Venture down Fiordland’s newest great walk, for a more mellow and immersive forest experience. Traverse mossy red fern and beech forests and listen for alpine parrots before taking a dip in the emerald waters at Brod Bay. The first stretch of this walk provides an excellent half-day trip. Those who want to continue the four day trek can also do so.

Hot Tip: While many people take day trips to Fiordland from Queenstown, we recommend staying locally in Te Anau. In addition to incredible views, you’ll get a more down-to-earth experience. Start your day with a cup of coffee alongside Te Anau locals at the cozy Sandfly Cafe, grab a meal at the crowd-pleasing Fat Duck, or cheers your friends with a pint of Fiordland lager at the local-favorite, Black Dog Bar.

Fiordland offers an endless array of adventures. Join us in Fiordland on our South Island New Zealand Trip today.

2. Wānaka

Wānaka is a top destination in New Zealand

Nestled near Mount Aspiring National Park, Wānaka is the perfect hub for exploring the Southern Alps. Small towns dominate New Zealand, but this quiet escape has recently gained traction as a less-crowded alternative to Queenstown. Adventure-seekers can skydive, set off on a beautiful lakeside hike, or kayak the serene lakes and river systems.

Key Attractions: Mt. Aspiring National Park, Diamond Lake, Wānaka Lavender Farm, Wānaka Via Ferrata, Treble Cone Resort, Snow Con Carm, Cardrona Ski Resort

Things to do in Wānaka:

• Hike Diamond Lake to Rocky Mountain Summit: If you’re in the mood for a half day (4.5 mile/1,599ft gain) hike, try this one! The trail is steep, but the summit offers rewarding views of Lake Wānaka below.
• Hike in Mt. Aspiring National Park: Less than an hour’s drive from Wānaka is Mt. Aspiring National Park, home to the stunning Southern Alps. Travel to the park to hike the 1-hour Blue Pools Trek or perhaps tackle a longer half-day Rob Roy Glacier Track.
• Sample Lavender Ice Cream at the Wānaka Lavender Farm: Open from Sep – May, Wānaka’s Lavender Farm is easy on the senses. Purple hues and colorful gardens dot the landscape. Visit to meet farm animals, sample local lake’s honey and indulge in a scoop of lavender ice-cream.
• Snap a Picture of the Most Photographed Tree in New Zealand: Head to the waterfront and walk towards Roy’s Bay. There, you’ll find ‘That Wānaka Tree,” an old willow rooted in the lake. Although it’s a bit overhyped, this tree is the most-photographed tree in the country.
• Play in Some Powder (Winter Only): There are wonderful ski resorts near Wānaka. If you happen to be visiting in the winter, head to nearby Treble Cone, Snow Farm, or Cardrona Ski Resorts toshred that deep pow.

Hot Tip: Wānaka’s bustling cafe scene is not to be missed. For coffee and a good hang try Scroggin. For a treat-your-self meal, head to Kika, or perhaps head to Hook Wānaka (where you can catch a salmon from the river and have them cook it up for dinner). The nearby Otago region is also known for its wine (Pinot Noir), if you fancy a glass.

Enjoy wilderness trails around Lake Wanaka in our South Island trip itinerary!

3. Rotorua

Rotorua is a top destination in New Zealand

When planning your itinerary, don’t miss Rotorua, the volcanic heart of the North Island. Rotorua offers access to colorful geothermal wonders, adrenaline-packed adventures, immersive ways to learn about Maori culture, and amazing spas. The town has a distinct sulfuric geothermal scent (a scent that many Kiwis associate with home).

Key Attractions: Tarawera Trail, Wai-O-Tapu Geothermal Area, Waimangu Volcanic Valley, Hobbiton, The Kaituna River

Things to do in Rotorua:

• Hike the Tarawera Trail: The Tarawera trail is located just 20 minutes outside of Rotorua. Trail runners will recognize the name Tarawera. It’s the site of a major international ultra-running race. It also makes the perfect day hike from Rotorua. The track winds through native bush and offers gorgeous views of Lake Tarawera. Don’t forget to bring your swimsuit (or as the locals say, togs) to cap the day off with a dip in the natural hot water beach and hot spring.
• Visit a Geothermal Park: Rotorua is located within the Pacific Rim of Fire and abounds in opportunities to visit wildly colorful geothermal wonders. Take your pick from a number of geothermal parks. My favorites are Wai-O-Tapu Geothermal Area (head here to see brilliant bubbling orange colors) and the Waimangu Volcanic Valley (for electric greens and yellows). Both remind me of an upgraded Yellowstoe paint-pot experience.
• Roll Down a Hill in a Zorb Ball: If you’re up for a wild and wacky ride, try out Zorbing (invented in Rotorua by Kiwis). Climb inside an inflatable ball and roll down Mt. Ngongotaha at a thrilling speed. Check it out here.
• Take a Day Trip to Hobbiton: Take a day trip to Hobbiton, the film set for the Lord of the Rings. There, you’ll learn fun facts about the film production, have a chance to explore the exquisite flower and vegetable gardens and even sip an Old English beer at the Dragon’s Inn.
• Immerse in Māori Culture: Māori culture is integral to New Zealand’s past, present, and future. For over a thousand years Māori have called New Zealand home, and we have a lot to learn from their traditions and way of life. Take the opportunity to discover their story and perhaps participate in a powhiri welcome ceremony, visit a marae, or share in a hāngī feast. Skip the uber-touristy experience, and join us for a more authentic engagement.
• Unwind with a Spa Experience: Rotorua is home to many geothermal springs and spas. Take a moment to soothe sore muscles or to schedule a massage at The Polynesian Spa.
• Raft Class V Rapids: Get your fix of adrenaline and head out on Class V white water rapid adventure on the Kaituna.

Marvel at the wondrous geothermal features of Rotorua on our North Island trip itinerary!

4. Auckland

Auckland is a top destination in New Zealand

Auckland is New Zealand’s most populous city. Over 1.6 million people call it home. Despite its large size, it’s one of the cleanest and most laid-back cities I’ve ever traveled to. The people are fit and healthy, and the city itself is packed with rolling hills and running paths that end at the sea. Over 50 volcanoes dot the landscape and islands and seascapes abound. Its vibrant art and culinary scene wows even the most well-traveled visitors. See why the New York Times rated it as a top destination for 2023.

Key Attractions: Mt. Eden, Auckland War Memorial Museum, Sky Tower, Coast to Coast Rack, Waitakere Range, Waiheke Island, Piha, Poor Knights

Things to do in Auckland:

• Learn about Māori History: Head to the Auckland War Memorial Museum for an in-depth account of Māori culture as a part of New Zealand’s past, present, and future.
• Visit Maungawhau/Mt. Eden: Maungawhau, also called Mt. Eden is Auckland’s most prominent volcano. It was also once an enormous Māori citadel, home to thousands of Maori. Climb up to the grassy crater for sweeping views of the city or simply enjoy the view from the boardwalk at the base. The award-winning visitor center, Tupuna Muanga, offers a great opportunity to learn how colonialism impacted New Zealand’s Māori. A Māori-owned cafe attached to the center serves up delicious eats.
• Head to the Top of the Sky Tower for a Cocktail or Yoga Class: The Sky Tower is Auckland’s tallest building, and the top floor offers sweeping 360-degree views of the city. You can enjoy a cocktail at the bar or take a yoga class.
• Walk, Bike or Run the Coast to Coast Track: Walk the width of this country on this 10.2 mile trail. It’s popular with walkers, joggers, and bikers and is a good way to experience city life while also getting some exercise.
  • Head to the Waitākere Range, Auckland’s Largest Regional Park: Located just 19 miles outside of the city center is the Arataki Centre. There, you can enjoy stunning views of the Tasman Sea & Pacific Ocean, hike through 250km of fern forest tracks to see NZ’s famous kauri trees, and admire traditional Māori carvings.
  • Day Trips from Auckland: You’re never far from adventure in Auckland. For day trips, we recommend heading to Waiheke Island (SEE BELOW), out for a dive trip in Poor Knights, or off to the black sand beaches of Piha and KareKare for a day of surfing.

Hot tip: #VisitAuckland’s Instagram page is a great place to go for local events and inspiration.

Enjoy a waterfront restaurant in Auckland on Day 1 of our North Island trip itinerary!

5. Wellington

Wellington is a top destination in New Zealand

Located at the tip of the South Island, New Zealand’s small but mighty capital city is full of opportunities to explore. Bordered by mountains and the sparkling sea, this hilly city is considered the craft beer, coffee and cultural epi-center of the country (as well as the gateway to the South Island via the Cook Strait ferries).

Key Attractions: Cuba Street, Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa, Wellington Cable Car, Wellington Writers Walk, Craft Capitol Beer Trail

Things to do in Wellington:

• Visit the Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa: Located along the waterfront, this free-to-enter museum provides immersive and world-class exhibits on the Māori and Pacific History as well as the works of talented local artists. It’s a must-visit!
• Shop Cuba Street: Stroll New Zealand’s cutest vintage shops, record stores, and bohemian boutiques on Cuba Street.
• Ride the Wellington Cable Car: Hop in a bright red cable car and head 5-minutes up the hill for sweeping views of the coastline and city. See local homes perched on the hillside and perhaps continue the journey with a visit to the Botanic Gardens or an ice cream cone at the top (hot tip: hokey pokey ice-cream is the NZ favorite).
• Walk the Wellington Writers Walk: The Wellington Writers Walk celebrates New Zealand’s famous authors with sculptural quotations from their works. It’s a great place to take a morning walk (or run) and learn a little Kiwi history along the way.
• Take the Lord of the Rings Tour: If you have half-day to spare and are a fan of Tolkien’s tales, opt for a half-day WETA tour, which includes the chance to see film locations from Rivendell, Minas Tirith, Helms Deep and more.
• Brewery Hop Your Way Through Town: Check out the Craft Capitol Beer Trail, or simply start with a pint on Cuba Street at Heyday.

Hot Tip: If you’re looking to explore Wellington’s vibrant cafe scene, grab a flat white and a cheese scone at Coffee Supreme.

Journey to the North Wellington coast on Day 8 in our North Island adventure!

6. Tongariro National Park

Tongariro National Park is a top destination in New Zealand

Boasting steaming craters, emerald lakes, and natural volcanic beauty like none other, it’s no wonder that Tongariro National Park was named New Zealand’s first national park. Today, the park also holds a UNESCO designation and you may recognize one of the park’s most prominent volcanoes (Mt. Ngauruhoe) from the Lord of the Rings series, where it masquerades as Mount Doom. The park’s three volcanoes (Mt. Ngauruhoe, Mt. Tongariro, and Mt. Ruapehu) offer important insight into the Māori history of the region. 

Key Attractions: Tongariro Crossing, Tongariro National Park, Mt Ngauruhoe, Mt. Tongariro, Taranaki Falls

Things to do in Tongariro National Park:

• Day Hike the Tongariro Alpine Crossing: The Tongariro Alpine Crossing is considered the best day hike in New Zealand. The 12.3-mile/2,750ft gain, point-to-point trek crosses lunar-looking valleys and ascends along steaming vents and misty slopes near Mt. Ngauruhoe and Mt. Tongariro. The hike takes most trekkers approximately 8 hours to complete. Because the trek ends in a different location than it starts, you’ll want your trusty guide team with you to shuttle you home at the end of the day as well as to provide naturalist and historical interpretation along the way. Get inspired with this video from the New Zealand Mountain Safety Council!
• Visit the Taranaki Falls: For those looking for a mellower adventure, Taranaki Falls offers a great alternative. Explore a 2-hour loop track through beech forest and search for native birds en route to the falls.
• Tackle the 3-4 Day Tongariro Alpine Circuit: If you want to spice it up a notch, opt for the Alpine Circuit, one of New Zealand’s 10 Great Walks.

Join your fellow travelers on a world-renowned trek on the Tongariro Alpine Circuit!

7. Abel Tasman National Park

Abel Tasman National Park is a top destination in New Zealand

Although it’s New Zealand’s smallest national park, Abel Tasman National Park features miles of sandy golden coastline, lush forest canopies, and unforgettable turquoise ocean-views. Located just an hour’s drive from the artsy-hub of Nelson, the park boasts 200+ days of sunshine each year (holding the title for New Zealand’s sunniest destination) and can be explored by land, sea or air.

Oh, and there are little blue penguins.

Key Attractions: Nelson, Abel Tasman Coast Track, Canyoning, Kayaking, Bark Bay

Things to do in Abel Tasman National Park:

• Trek the Abel Tasman Coastal Trail: The Abel Tasman Coastal Trail more than earns its place on the list of New Zealand’s 10 Great Walks. This 3-5 day, 37-mile trek is perfect for all backpacking abilities. The trail meanders through stretches of beach and fern forest and can also be broken down into smaller segments for those who only have time for a daytrip. For shorter visits, we recommend the Bark Bay to Anchorage route, an 8-mile highlight reel with a stop for a dip in Cleopatra’s Pool. Note: Be sure to check the tides and have a good handle on logistics for the day – as this day trip will require coordination with the tides and a pre-booked water taxi service to get back. Allow us to set up the perfect, worry-free adventure in the park for you.
• Go on a Canyoning Adventure in the Park: If you want a unique way to explore the park, consider a canyoning trip. Walk, swim, scramble, abseil, and zipline through waterfalls and narrow canyon streams on a guided adventure. 
• Kayak Abel Tasman: Getting out on the water is a great way to experience the magic of the park. Paddle through the pristine, crystal clear waters and keep your eyes peeled for seals, dolphins, and little blue penguins. Options for both guided and self-guided rentals are available.
• Take a Scenic Heli Tour: Gain a bird’s-eye view of the park on a scenic helicopter tour. Perhaps land for lunch at a local lodge!
• Explore the Nearby Town of Nelson: Nelson is a beautiful town, overflowing with vibrant culture and a one-of-a-kind arts scene. Whatever you do, don’t miss the Nelson Market. If you have extra time to explore, we recommend a stop at Höglund Art Glass shop for hand blown glassworks and Craig Potton Gallery.

Pro Tip: Bring your binos! The park also serves as a refuge for fur seals, dolphins, coastal birds, and even little blue penguins (the tiniest penguins on Earth – awww).

Explore Abel Tasman National Park on our 13-day South Island Hiking adventure!

8. Marlborough Wine Region

The Marlborough Wine Region is a top destination in New Zealand

Defined by its sunny days and crisp nights, the Marlborough Wine Region’s gently-sloped mountains and buttery green hills are perfectly situated for grape growing. Wines in this region are known for their vibrant profiles, zingy acidity, and flavors like grass, green pepper, grapefruit and lime. Although wine is a new(ish) venture in New Zealand (just 50 years old), Marlborough has quickly risen to the top as one of the world’s premier sauvignon blanc producers.

Marlborough is also home to some of the freshest seafood in the world and boasts a landscape that rivals the wine.

Key Attractions: Yealand Estate, Marlborough Wine Region, Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre, Witherhills Farm Park, Blenheim, Wairau Valley, and Kaikoura

Things to Do in the Marlborough Wine Region:

• Raise a Glass to Sustainable Viticulture: While there are many amazing wineries in the region, our favorite is Yealands Estate, renowned for its leadership in sustainable agriculture. Visit here to try award-winning wines and to tour the property with your dedicated guide. Head down the White Road to explore multiple microclimates whilst taking in magnificent views of the Cook Straight and surrounding wetlands. Keep your eyes peeled for the miniature babydoll sheep and Kunekune pigs that dot the farmscape.
• Cruise the Marlborough Sounds: Venture out into the Marlborough Sounds for untouched access to the wild sea and to search for the wildlife who grace its waters including seals, penguins, whales, and dolphins.
• Savor Green-Lipped Mussels: Sample the region’s finest seafood. Steamed and infused with white white and garlic, green-lipped mussels are farmed in the Marlborough Sounds. If you’re a mussel-lover, you can even take a green-lipped mussel cruise to dine on fresh-caught mussels.
• Visit the Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre: History buffs will enjoy the Aviation Heritage Center, showcasing rare World War II and II aircrafts. 
• Hike at Wither Hills Farm Park: Traverse working New Zealand farms for inspiring views of the Richmond Ranges, Wairau Valley, and Blenheim.
• Take a Whale Watching Tour in Kaikōura: Just an hour and a half south of Blenheim (central Marlborough) is the charming coastal town of Kaikōura. It’s an enchanting seaside town, with lavender farms and sweeping seascapes. Kaikōura is one of the few places in the world where sperm whales are found close to the shore year-round. Let us take you out on a whale watching tour for the opportunity to spot sperm whales. The best part about Kaikōura is its dedication to ecotourism. It’s also a great place to make a connection between the people and the coast – as these whales have important historic and cultural significance to the Māori.

Go wine tasting in Marlborough’s renowned vineyards on our South Island trip itinerary!

9. Waiheke Island

Waiheke Island is a top destination in New Zealand

Just a 40-minute boat ride away from Auckland lies Waiheke, a picturesque island flanked by sandy beaches, vineyards, olive groves and emerald waves. It’s the ultimate low-key city escape and has been dubbed ‘the Hamptons of New Zealand’ by A-List celebrities including Justin Timberlake, Madonna, Beyonce, and Bill Gates.

From world-class ecotours to epic wine tastings, you can’t go wrong.

Key Attractions: Waiheke Island, Hauraki Gulf, Auckland, Palm Beach, Onetangi Beach, Oneroa beach, and Church Bay

Things to do on Waiheke Island:

• Visit the Island’s Pristine Beaches: Plant your beach chair on Palm Beach, Onetangi Beach, or Oneroa Beach for an uncrowded and peaceful day in the sun. Then cool off under the island’s idyllic pohutukawa trees. 
• Sip and Savor Waiheke’s Best Wines: Choose from a handful of exceptional and well-established wineries including Tantalus, Man o War, Mudbrick, or Cable Bay and Casita Miro. Or let us do the choosing for you on our New Zealand North Island Hiking Tour. 
• Do an Olive Oil Tasting: Need a break from drinking wine?  Waiheke is home to stunning olive groves, where you can sample various award-winning sun ripened-oils.
• Hike the Church Bay Circuit: If sitting on the beach makes you antsy, hit the trails for stunning coastline views. This moderate 5.2 mile hike is a crowd-pleaser and takes approximately 3 hours to complete.

Sip wine on Waiheke Island while admiring its gorgeous coastal headlands on Day 2 of our North Island trip itinerary!

10. Whirinaki Forest

The Whirinaki Forest is a top destination in New Zealand

Tucked deep in the heart of the North Island is one of New Zealand’s best kept secrets: the Whirinaki Forest. This majestic ecosystem is one of the world’s last remaining prehistoric podocarp (cone-bearing) rainforests. Featuring towering totara, kahikatea, matai, rimu and miro trees that are over 1000 years old, it’s a sight to behold. The Whirinaki Te Pua-a-Tāne Conservation Park also boasts nearly 100 miles of walking trails to get lost on. Escape to enjoy a primeval landscape full of moss, ferns, towering trees, and native birds.

Key Attractions: Whirinaki Forest, Bay of Plenty, Whirinaki Te Pua-a-Tāne Conservation Park

Things to Do in the Whirinaki Forest:

• Hike the Riverside Loop Track: Hike through a sea of wild ferns and prehistoric giants on the riverside loop track. This mellow, but scenic hike is the best way to get a feel for the park. Along the way, discover the impact logging had on the local Ngāti Whare, who live in close association with the forest.
• Get Your Binos Out for a Birding Tour of Whirinaki: Whirinaki is home to rare and endangered birdlife. Join your guide to listen closely for the North Island Kākā, the Whio (blue duck), the endangered kārearea falcon, and (at night) the evasive Kiwi. You can hear samples of their calls here, and (hopefully) even catch a glimpse of one in the park.
• Head out at Dusk on a Whirinaki NightLife Walk: The rainforest comes alive at night. Head out just after dark to listen to animals such as the ruru, weta, kiwi, and to search for glow-worms.

Hike in the majestic Whirinaki Rainforest with us on our North Island adventure!

What are you waiting for?

Grab your best pair of hiking books and join us for the adventure of a lifetime. New Zealand is the ultimate destination for adventurers, freedom seekers, and cheeky travelers of all ages. Whether you want to travel to the North Island or the South Island (or both!), you’ll come home with a lifetime’s worth of stories to tell at parties and be able to add an adventurous new stamp in your passport.

Chat with a New Zealand specialist today or snag a copy of our adventure travel magazine.

Further reads…

• Best Adventure Travel Gadgets to Buy
• Best Dark Sky Parks to Go Star Gazing in the US
• Top 10 Most Beautiful Villages in the Alps
• MT Sobek Staff Picks: Best Adventures for 2024
• Photo Gallery: The Beauty of US National Parks