Get amongst hiking, surfing and cycling to exploring the quirky, creative corners of Taranaki towns. The region’s extensive sparkling coastline and iconic cone-shaped volcano offer a multitude of activities to get out there and adenture. Check out our top ten list and start planning your trip to this underrated holiday destination.

Snap a postcard-worthy photo of Mount Taranaki on the Pouakai Crossing

One of New Zealand’s best one-day walks and part of the larger Pouakai Circuit, this eight-hour crossing showcases some of the most breathtaking scenery of the region, from native forest to lava cliffs and a stunningly picturesque mountain lake – you’ll definitely want to grab a photo of Mount Taranaki reflected serenely in the water.

Visit the Govett-Brewster Art Gallery and Len Lye Centre

The Len Lye Centre in New Plymouth is hard to miss – with its mirrored columns and changeable reflections, you’ll be having fun before you even get inside. Next door to The Govett-Brewster Art Gallery, the Len Lye Centre is the only public gallery in New Zealand dedicated to a single artist, and features changing exhibitions of works by the renowned kinetic sculptor and film artist.

Catch waves along Surf Highway 45

Taranaki’s coastline is a surfer’s paradise, with 180 degrees of ocean swells to explore along Surf Highway 45 between New Plymouth and Hāwera. Top surf beaches include Fitzroy Beach, Oakura Beach, Kaupokanui Beach and Ohawe Beach. The highway is worth a drive even if you’re not a surfer – you’ll get a load of spectacular scenery along the route, and discover small towns full of art galleries and studios, historical sites, and unique personality.

Hit the skis (or snowboard) on Mt Taranaki

The only ski field on Mount Taranaki, Manganui has outstanding steep runs and off-piste skiing as well as a small beginner-intermediate area accessible by T-bar or rope tow. Snowboarders will love the two natural half-pipes. Snow can be sporadic throughout the season, so keep an eye on the reports before planning your day.

Photograph the iconic Cape Egmont Lighthouse

The historic lighthouse on the westernmost point of Taranaki was built in 1881 and still flashes its light every eight seconds today. It makes a striking sight across green fields with Mt Taranaki as its backdrop. Unfortunately you can’t go inside or get up close to the lighthouse.

Drink in the landscape on the Whitecliffs Walkway

This stunningly scenic five-to-eight-hour walk takes you over farmland and along the sheer cliffs and bluffs of northern Taranaki, including the Three Sisters rock formations and of course the famous Parininihi white cliffs. You’ll also walk through the 130-year-old Te Horo stock tunnel, hand-hewn through the cliffs and emerging out on private farmland. The walkway is closed during lambing season, 1 July to 30 September.

Check out some true Kiwiana at Fun Ho! National Toy Museum

This is a destination to delight anyone’s inner child, with over 3000 locally made toys on display dating back to 1935. See the slot car track, sand pit, theatrette and other interactive displays, and if the toy maker is in, you might even be lucky enough to see him make the toy of the day.

Visit Wendy at King Edward Park

The bronze statue of Wendy in King Edward Park is the companion to the Peter Pan statue in London’s Kensington Gardens, and it’s the only Wendy Darling statue in the world! It was created as part of a Royal Academy of Sculpture competition and unveiled in 1951.

Head to the top of Hāwera Water Tower

A little local secret: head to the Hāwera iSite and borrow the key to the water tower next door for some of the best views in town, looking over the Tasman Sea and back towards Mount Taranaki. This local icon was built in 1914 after a series of fires badly affected the town. It’s a fair few steep, narrow stairs to the top – 215 to be exact – and the views are well worth the effort.

Go boating in 1840 at Tawhiti Museum

Considered by many to be one of the best private museums in the country, the Tawhiti Museum is an interactive and engaging experience created by artist Nigel Ogle. Learn all about Taranaki’s history, including the Land Wars, through a series of intricate scale models, check out the collection of vintage farm machinery, and take a ride into a bygone era in the Traders and Whalers section, where you’ll be ferried on an actual boat through a recreation of the Taranaki coast, giving you a glimpse at what life was like there between 1820 and 1840.

Mountains! Seas! Castles, glaciers and rainforest! It’s hard to pick the top things to see in Te Waipounamu, the South Island, but we’ve got your unmissable list.

Punakaiki pancake rocks and blowholes

If you time the tide right, you’ll be treated to blowholes blasting seawater far into the sky among these curiously stacked natural rock formations. Take a 20-minute loop walk around the pancake rocks at Punakaiki on the West Coast – it’s a gentle, wheelchair accessible track that delivers spectacular return on effort.

Banks Peninsula

The sparkling blue waters and craggy hills of Banks Peninsula are a postcard-perfect sight from almost anywhere, but one of the best places to drink it in is next to the Hilltop Tavern on the drive over from Christchurch, where you get panoramic views of Akaroa Harbour and its picturesque surrounds. Most of the big bays around the peninsula are seal-spotting photo opportunities, and there are scenic walks all over the show.

Church of the Good Shepherd

A true Aotearoa icon, this stone church is backdropped by the turquoise-blue Lake Tekapo and the towering Southern Alps. In winter, the snow-capped mountains only add to the magic.

Aoraki Mount Cook

It’s the highest mountain in New Zealand, and there are a few prime spots to see it in all its glory, especially in the winter months when it’s cloaked in snow and looking like a picture. Peters Lookout is a great spot to grab a photo on the road to Aoraki Mount Cook Village, and the Hooker Valley Track offers some of the best views around.

Moeraki Boulders

The huge, uniquely spherical collection of boulders scattered along a stretch of sandy Otago beach like so many giant marbles might have you scratching your head over the mystery of it all, but not before you’ve taken a good few photos!

Larnach Castle

Our only castle sits proudly on a hilltop on the Otago Peninsula, a majestic sight you won’t want to miss. Thoroughly explore the gardens and discover all the best angles of this historic landmark before heading inside to check out the stories, Victorian antiques, and tower views.

Fox Glacier and Franz Josef Glacier

Glaciers you can walk right up to: these two and their blue-white ice rivers are uniquely accessible. They’re close to the coast and just about touching the temperate West Coast rainforest – unlike anything else in the world.

Mitre Peak

A greenery-draped mountain looming photogenically out of the dark, reflective waters of Milford Sound. Fiordland as a whole is a South Island must-see with its untamed, out-of-this-world natural beauty, and Mitre Peak is one of the absolute highlights.

Abel Tasman National Park

The golden sands, crystal water and emerald forests of Abel Tasman National Park are a feast for the senses, and whether you’re taking it in on an Abel Tasman hike, kayaking around the coastline, or taking a cruise to see the iconic Tokangawhā Split Apple Rock, this is definitely one to keep high on your list.

That Wānaka Tree

Is there a tree more widely photographed than the iconic Wānaka tree? Growing determinedly and stunningly out of the water (at certain tides) with a pristine mountain backdrop, this tree has attracted photographers from all around the world. Get to it from the Waterfall Creek Track carpark at sunrise for the best colours and least amount of people.

Gold and black beaches, pristine diving and snorkelling, mind-blowing views, world-class museums and some of the best craft breweries on the planet. That’s right, you’re in Te Ika-a-Māui – the North Island – and this is your shopping list of must-do activities and sights.

Visit where it all began at the Waitangi Treaty Grounds

This activity and history hub is the place where the Crown and Iwi signed the document that made Aotearoa New Zealand a country. A must-visit for any Kiwi, the Waitangi Treaty Grounds are a beautiful spot for a history lesson, with a couple of excellent museums, Māori Carving Studio complete with carving demonstrations, and cultural performances in a historic meeting house. Allow time to explore the extensive gardens and bush tracks, and stop to appreciate the views.

See the world from mountain tops in Tongariro National Park

The breathtaking natural beauty and cultural significance of this park mean it’s got not one, but two World Heritage Site listings. Your question: “Does it deserve this double status?” The answer: “Hell yes.” It’s packing three volcanoes (including Mount Ngāuruhoe AKA Mount Doom), Emerald Lakes, and arguably Aotearoa’s best one-day hike: the Tongariro Crossing.

Walk on the beach and grab a new profile pic at Cathedral Cove

It’s in The Chronicles of Narnia movies, it’s an official Windows startup background, and soon it’s going to be in your personal photo reel. Kayak or boat from Hahei on the Coromandel Peninsula or stretch your legs on a scenic 1.5-hour return walk. Once you’re there, snorkel in the clear, warm waters or just relax on the sand and enjoy your surroundings.

Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa

Te Papa is six storeys of cutting-edge contemporary and interactive exhibitions. It’s widely considered one of the best museums in the world, and it’s in the heart of Wellington. Te Papa Tongarewa means ‘container of treasures’, and the treasures you’ll find include nature, Māori culture, art, war and human invention.

Hit the water at Lake Taupō

Taupō Moana is the central North Island destination for fishing, parasailing, skydiving, jet boating and hot water soaking. Taupō is a small town with plenty to do, luxury and budget accommodation, awesome food and stunning mountainous scenery. Hit the other lakeside towns of Tūrangi and Kinloch for summer and winter holiday destinations.

Go on an adventure at Hobbiton

Time for second breakfast! The Hobbiton film set is just outside the town of Matamata and it’s open for visitors of all sizes. The guided tour shows off the best of the Shire, Hobbit holes, and heads into the Green Dragon Inn for a drink, or perhaps one of your six daily meals.

Walk the Auckland Harbour Bridge

This massive piece of civil infrastructure is one of the best places in Auckland to get mind-blowing 360-degree views of the city, Rangitoto Island and the Hauraki Gulf. Harness up and prepare for an adrenaline hit walking along the top arch, and if you want to take things up (or down) a notch, you can combine your bridge walk with a bungy jump.

Spelunk the Waitomo Caves

These deep caves are lit up like the night sky thanks to thousands of glow-worms. Explore the caves on foot with a Waitomo Glowworm Caves tour, descend into the dark with the Lost World Abseil, or get your adventure on with The Legendary Black Water Rafting Co., an exhilarating ride on an underground river you’ll never forget.

Get your Taranaki views on the Pouakai Crossing

An eight-hour walking track in Egmont National Park, taking you past some of the most breathtaking scenery of the region, from native forest to lava cliffs and a stunning mountain lake showing off a picture-perfect reflection of Mount Taranaki.

Sip and sail at Waiheke Island

Go on, treat yourself. Hop a ferry from Auckland and spend a day or several exploring the beaches, walks and wineries of Waiheke Island, a destination that feels like a whole world away. Waiheke is well-known for its wine, and spending a day tasting the best Syrahs, Merlots, Malbecs and Cabernet Sauvignons on the island could be just the ticket.

Touch the tippity-top at Cape Reinga

The last stop on New Zealand’s northern road is a stunning outlook, what with the picturesque lighthouse, seemingly endless ocean, and an 800-year old pōhutukawa tree. This spot, and the tree in particular, is sacred to Māori, said to be the place from which deceased Māori spirits leap into the sea to return to their ancestral homeland.

Dive the Poor Knights Island Marine Reserve

Described by renowned marine conservationist and explorer Jacques Cousteau as one of the top ten dive sites in the world, the crystal-clear waters and unique geological features of this gorgeous marine reserve make for some truly superb marine observation. Don your snorkel and check out the plethora of marine life here, or scuba dive to explore way down into the depths.

Golf around the gannet colony at Cape Kidnappers

The golf course at Cape Kidnappers is not only one of the best in the country, but one of the modern marvels of golf. Designed by legendary golf architect Tom Doak, it’s an opportunity not to be missed for golfers of any level. The towering Cape Kidnappers clifftop is also home to one of the largest gannet colonies in the world.

Tap into the Wellington craft beer scene

Wellington’s craft beer culture is absolutely hopping (we’re sorry), so if you’re a fan of the golden stuff, treat yourself to a tour of some of the capital’s best breweries, bars and pubs. The Craft Beer Capital Trail gives you an excellent place to start, offering a downloadable map of 29 bars and 15 breweries around Wellington.

Hike the pristine Lake Waikaremoana Track

Lose yourself (preferably not literally) in nature on this backcountry hike, a Great Walk that takes you through the largest native forest in the North Island. The ancestral home of Ngai Tūhoe, this special place has been protected from farming and deforestation, offering spectacular views, ethereal valleys of mist, and a chorus of birdsong.

Explore Auckland’s black sand beaches

You’ll definitely want to keep your jandals on for this. You can feel like you’re in the heart of the wilderness at any of Auckland’s famously wild, rugged west coast beaches. Careful of the iron-rich black sand on a hot summer’s day – it’s a guaranteed scorcher. Explore some of the excellent walking trails, check out the Muriwai gannet colony between August and March, go surfing at Piha, or stand on the same beach where The Piano was shot at Karekare.

See the world’s first sunrise on the East Cape

Part of Aotearoa’s privilege is being the first to see the sun rise on a new day, and of the whole of New Zealand, Gisborne is the spot that gets to glimpse it first, which is a pretty cool thing to experience. Pro tip: a magical place to watch the sunrise is Maunga Hikurangi, a sacred mountain to Ngāti Porou and the highest non-volcanic peak in the North Island.

Check out the Art Deco capital of the world

Time warp back to the days of flapper dresses, cloche hats, and dancing the Charleston in Napier, one of the most complete Art Deco cities in the world. Take a guided walking tour to see and learn about all the beautiful and historic architecture, built after a devastating 1931 earthquake, and if you time your visit for around late February, you can grab tickets to the annual Art Deco Festival.

Take a wine tour in Hawke’s Bay

If you’re not joining a wine tour, or making one of your own, you’re doing Hawke’s Bay wrong. It is the oldest wine region in the country and especially famous for its reds, with the vast majority of our Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah produced right here.

Go surfing

Regions famous for waves that draw surfers from all over the country and the world include Raglan, Gisborne, Auckland’s Piha Beach, and the Bay of Islands. Surf Highway 45 from New Plymouth to Hawera is a surfer’s dream, hitting all the best surf beaches along this line of coast.

Paddle the Whanganui Journey

A journey so epic that it somehow made its way onto the list of New Zealand’s Great Walks despite being, well, not a walk, this kayaking or canoeing adventure takes between three to five days and will see you paddling through a glorious wilderness of lush green valleys, remote hills and past maraes on the mighty Whanganui River.

Go digging at Hot Water Beach

This is an absolute classic – at any given low tide, grab a spade and make your way down to Hot Water Beach. Get digging until you hit hot water, keep digging until you’ve got a big enough hole, then sit down and enjoy your totally natural hot spring. Mmm, bliss.

Go see a game at Eden Park

This is New Zealand’s national stadium, so jump at the chance to see a game of rugby or cricket here while you’re in Auckland. The All Blacks haven’t lost here since 1994, and the atmosphere of an international test match is absolutely unbeatable. The park has also seen some incredible games of international cricket, and is the home of cricket in Auckland.

Ski or snowboard an active volcano

Mount Ruapehu boasts some of the North Island’s best ski fields, including New Zealand’s largest, Whakapapa. You’ll find Tukino, a smaller club field, on the mountain’s eastern slopes, offering great off-piste action away from the crowds, while Whakapapa and its sister field Tūroa are great for both beginners and experts, providing ski schools and easy beginner slopes plus black runs aplenty for the seasoned rippers.

Relax at Doubtless Bay

A magnificent beach of caramel sand and sparkling water surrounded by Northland’s subtropical greenery. It’s practically begging you to get out in the water for a swim, snorkel, sail or fish, and it’s a great point for exploring the nearby attractions such as Ninety Mile Beach and Cape Reinga.

Connect with nature on Kapiti Island

A beautiful island nature reserve within striking distance of Wellington. Be surrounded by nature and immersed in history, with access only available through approved operators. Explore to your heart’s content on the walking tracks, and keep your eyes out for the many native birds that live in this predator-free sanctuary.

Admire the views from Cape Palliser

Forget step class – get that heart pumping on the 250-step climb to the top of the lighthouse at Cape Palliser. The views along the dramatically scenic coast are well worth it! Palliser Bay, the southernmost point of the North Island, was a site for more than 20 shipwrecks in the 19^th Century, and the lighthouse offers a great vantage point of these treacherous waters. On the more adorable side of things, the cape is also home to New Zealand’s largest fur seal colony.

Get up in the branches on the Redwoods Treewalk

Sitting 20 metres above the forest floor, this experience is a soul-feeding mix of exhilarating and peaceful. Traverse a series of 28 suspension bridges to get the birds’ eye view of the ancient Whakarewarewa Forest on the outskirts of Rotorua.

Walk or drive along Ninety Mile Beach

Ah yes, the 54 miles of Ninety Mile Beach… Misnomer aside, this beautiful stretch of sand is known for awesome surf and some incredible sunsets. You’ll also want to grab a video boogie boarding down some massive sand dunes. It’s officially a highway, an alternative to State Highway 1, although only four wheel drive vehicles can drive on it, and only at low tide.

Visit the Govett-Brewster Art Gallery and Len Lye Centre

With its mirrored columns and changeable reflections, you’ll be having fun before you even get inside the Len Lye Centre in New Plymouth. The Govett-Brewster Art Gallery is renowned for its collection of contemporary works, and the Len Lye Centre is the only gallery in New Zealand dedicated to a single artist.

Feel the heat at Hell’s Gate

With a name like Hell’s Gate, you just know the sulphuric action is going to be popping off at this Rotorua attraction. Check out the steaming, bubbling pools on a geothermal walk, then rejuvenate your skin with a mineral mud bath followed by a sulphur soak.

Feel the power at Huka Falls

One of the most impressive waterfalls in the North Island is just off the side of the road at Taupō. Huka Falls send more than 220,000 litres of water per second thundering over the 11-metre waterfall. Get right up to the base of the falls with Huka Falls Jet, which will take you on a sightseeing tour of the nearby attractions with 360-degree spins thrown in to keep you on your toes.

Ascend the SkyTower

An icon of Auckland’s city skyline, the spacey looking SkyTower is the number one spot in the central city for the best views from all sides. Pick your adventure once you’ve made it to the top: hold your breath as you stand on the glass floor panel looking all the way down to the street, treat yourself to dinner and the best view in town at the Orbit 360˚restaurant, or venture outside for a nail-biting SkyWalk or stomach-swooping SkyJump.

See nature thrive at ZEALANDIA Te Māra a Tāne

Imagine yourself in a land before time at this huge ecosanctuary in the middle of Wellington. ZEALANDIA provides an immersive encounter with New Zealand’s native wildlife and plants. Over 40 species of birds live wild in the 225 hectares of regenerating native bush. Keen eyes will also spot the rare tuatara. Jump on a night tour for your best chance at spotting a kiwi.

Tell all your friends about the Hamilton Gardens

The Hamilton Gardens come out of seemingly nowhere to blow you away, and before you know it, you’re insisting that absolutely everyone you know go and check it out. With more than 20 themed gardens designed to tell the story of gardens around the world and throughout history, it’s certainly easy to lose an entire day here, exploring everything from the Japanese Garden of Contemplation to the mind-bending Surrealist Garden.

Take a tour at special effects studio Weta Workshop

Your inner movie nerd will think they’ve died and gone to heaven at Wellington’s Weta Workshop. This is where the magic happens, like The Lord of The Rings, The Hobbit, Avatar, District 9 and Thunderbirds Are Go kind of magic. You can see the artists at work, as well as some of the costumes and creatures used in various films on a Weta Cave Workshop Tour.

See the taonga at Auckland Museum

Brush up on your history and discover some seriously cool Māori and Pacific treasures at this museum, which holds a happy reputation as one of the best museums in the Southern Hemisphere. The historic, columned building is a pretty cool sight in itself, and it sits squarely within Auckland Domain, which is definitely worth taking a bit of extra time to explore (pro tip: don’t miss the Winter Gardens).

Drive the Desert Road and visit the National Army Museum

The Desert Road is a plateau of burnished gold, with incredible views of Mount Ruapehu and Mount Ngauruhoe in the distance, a sort of desolate beauty unlike anything else. Along this stretch of road is a stop well worth your time: the National Army Museum, home to unique collections of army memorabilia, military exhibits and stories of New Zealand soldiers.

Kick back in Mount Maunganui

The Mount is a laidback holiday destination, home to the Best Beach in New Zealand by popular vote, as well as beautiful orchards, relaxing hot pools and excellent surf. Take your pick of the awesome activities on offer here, from blokarting (think windsurfing, but on wheels) to big game fishing and the somewhat infamous hike up Mauao Mount Maunganui itself.

Sample Martinborough’s wine

The Pinot Noir produced here is exceptional, and with boutique accommodation and small-town charm, this is a great little spot for a truly relaxing escape. Put this one on your list of New Zealand wine regions to visit – Martinborough is home to more than 20 cellar doors, among them some of the country’s most highly regarded wineries.

Catch some kai moana

You’ll find excellent salt water fishing action in the North Island; in fact, according to Māori folklore, the island itself was fished up after an epic struggle by Maui. Snapper are in good supply in shallow water, and heading deeper will find sport fish such as tuna and marlin. In places like The Coromandel, Hauraki Gulf, Bay of Islands and Raglan you’ll come across friendly locals happy to share some favourite fishing spots.

Speed down the tracks on the Rotorua Luge

Enjoy the views on your Gondola ride up, then shoot down the hillside on a contraption that’s part go-kart, part toboggan. The famous Skyline Rotorua Luge is one of the foremost reasons why this unassuming town became an adventure capital of Aotearoa.

Visit ‘the hell hole of the Pacific’

You have to admire any place that fully embraces a bad review, and the (actually super charming) little town of Russell has claimed this one from the 1800s as an ironic part of its identity. Nowadays, it’s the ideal base for exploring the Bay of Islands, home to the country’s first licensed hotel, its oldest surviving Roman Catholic building, and a plethora of beautiful walks and water-based activities.

Drive the Forgotten World Highway

Mysterious, historic and remote, this themed highway is a chance to explore off the beaten trail – you’re going to want to make sure your tank is full before you set off. With supplies in the back and breadcrumb trail left, set out to discover abandoned settlements, tiny historic towns, four mountain saddles and curious single-lane tunnels. You’ll even have to apply for a passport to enter the Republic of Whangamōmona – it declared its independence from New Zealand in 1988!

Experience the Caluzzi Drag Cabaret on K Road

Life is a cabaret, old chum, especially at this institution of Auckland’s LGBTQ hub, Karangahape Road. The original Drag Queen dinner theatre, an evening at Caluzzi will have you clutching your aching ribs and wiping tears of laughter from your eyes as the fabulous Queens entertain you through dinner and into dessert.

Go golfing

Many world-class golf courses in the North Island were designed by total legends of the game, and they’re all set in breathtaking natural surrounds. You’ve no doubt already made note of Cape Kidnappers from higher on this list, and now you can add a few more: Kauri Cliffs in the Bay of Islands and Kinloch Golf Club in Taupō are both international attractions. For a unique golfing experience, the Wairakei Golf + Sanctuary is a haven for golfers and animals alike as a genuine predator-free wildlife sanctuary.

Drive the East Cape

Crack your knuckles and wrap them around the steering wheel for a classic Kiwi road trip adventure. This beautiful scenic route around New Zealand’s easternmost point has natural beauty, historic sights, and beaches galore. Worthwhile stops on the way include the ornate Māori church in Tikitiki, Te Puia Springs hot pools, the 660-metre wharf in Tolaga Bay, and the iconic East Cape Lighthouse.

See the sails and sip the cocktails on the Auckland Viaduct

You are in the City of Sails, so it only makes sense to check out the humming waterfront that gave Auckland its nickname. Viaduct Harbour is a nightlife and foodie destination, and taking a wander around the water’s edge doubles as a chance to admire boats and superyachts as you try to decide where to stop for a bite. Wynyard Quarter is home to some sweet food markets and events in Silo Park, and you can even help crew an authentic America’s Cup yacht out in the harbour with Explore Group.

Tell a fishy freshwater tale

Impress your friends and neighbours with an incredible catch they’ll be talking about for years – the North Island lakes and rivers offer world-class fishing and big, plentiful trout. Lake Taupō, the Tongariro River and Kaimanawa Forest Park are some of the world’s premier freshwater fishing destinations, and Tūrangi is known as the trout fishing capital of the world, with more than 30 rivers in the area providing plenty of chances to catch the fish of a lifetime.

Go bush

With screeds of subtropical rainforests full or natural beauty around every corner, any nature lover should take the opportunity to get into the bush, whether it be the geographical entity that is Te Urewera, the mountainous terrain of Kaimanawa Forest Park, the enormous Whanganui National Park, or something a little closer to the cities like Tararua Forest Park and Coromandel Forest Park.

The South Island’s walks span mountains, fiords, forests, rivers and glaciers. Locals will tell you Te Waipounamu has the best hikes in Aotearoa and it’s easy to see why in country like this. Check out our pick of the best multi-day hikes and scenic strolls.

Milford Track

Maybe the most famous of the Great Walks, this hike through Fiordland National Park is a stunning five-day spectacular of glacial valleys, temperate rainforest and sub-alpine landscapes.

Routeburn Track

Linking the Mount Aspiring and Fiordland national parks, this world-renowned Great Walk takes in majestic mountain views, glassy blue lakes and cascading waterfalls over two to four days.

Tuatapere Hump Ridge Track

Walk through ancient terraced forests, see and hear native wildlife, and be blown away by the fabulous alpine and coastal views. This three-day loop walk was almost in the running to be added to the Great Walks list, and is acclaimed for its unique blend of nature and heritage.

The Queen Charlotte Track

One of the two definitive coastal hikes in Aotearoa. Stunning sea views abound on this coastal trail in Marlborough, running almost the entire length of the Queen Charlotte Sound. You’ll wind your way through subtropical rainforest, past historic bays and along gasp-inducing ridges, and there’s even the option to skip some of the harder sections or transfer your belongings by water taxi.

Abel Tasman Coast Track

The other definitive coastal hike, the Abel Tasman Coast track showcases the glorious golden sand beaches, turquoise water and fascinating rock formations of Abel Tasman National Park. Water taxis can deliver you (or your gear) to different sections, or you can walk the whole thing over three to five days.

Glacier walk

Franz Josef and Fox Glacier are two of only three glaciers in the world that you can take a guided walk on as an average citizen, as opposed to a qualified mountaineer. Experience the incredible majesty of these blue-white ice rivers and explore the ever-changing valleys, crevasses and caves with Franz Josef Glacier Guides.

Summit Road Walkway

Take in magnificent views of the Canterbury Plains, Lyttelton Harbour, Akaroa Harbour and the Port Hills on this two-to-three-day walk, meandering along a high ridgeline around Banks Peninsula from Gebbes Pass to the Akaroa crater.

Roys Peak Track

This three-hour hike gets pretty steep in parts, but the superb views of Lake Wānaka, Mount Aspiring and the Southern Alps are well worth it. Your climb will lead you through alpine meadows and tussock grasslands on the way to the summit.

Botanic Gardens and Hagley Park

Take a genteel stroll through the Christchurch Botanic Gardens and Hagley Park to enjoy riverside tranquillity, the sounds of families playing, and the colourful blooms of this garden city. If you want to push the boat out, venture onto Te Ara Ōtākaro Avon River Trail, connecting the centre city to New Brighton Beach.

Aoraki Mount Cook National Park

A guided walk or self-directed wander in the Aoraki Mount Cook National Park is the ideal way to soak in the incredible scenery of this area, from stunning alpine meadows to lakeside tracks with views of New Zealand’s highest mountain. Some top tracks in the area include Red Tarns Track, Hooker Valley Track and the Muller Hut Route.

Banks Track

One of New Zealand’s original private walking trails, this two-to-three-day experience wends its way through farmland and forest to stunning coastline and dramatic cliffs, ending up in the pretty French-settled town of Akaroa. The track is open from October to April.

Get your thrills high in the sky or deep underground, race at high speeds over water or on two wheels. Te Ika-a-Māui, the North Island, has adventure around every corner.

Rotorua

The North Island’s adventure capital, with spades of activities to get your heart pounding. Skyline Rotorua is the home of the Rotorua luge, which sends you careening down a hill on a contraption that’s part go-kart, part toboggan. Zipline tours are another popular activity in Rotorua, while the ZORB – a giant, inflatable ball that you climb into and roll down a slope like a human marble – is one of this town’s most iconic activities.

Black-water rafting

When white-water rafting just isn’t cutting it, take it underground. Head into the dark subterranean world and bounce along underground rapids in a rubber tube, lit from above by the famous Waitomo glow-worms. With the Legendary Black Water Rafting Co., you can combine black-water rafting with abseiling, ziplining and waterfall climbs for the ultimate caving adventure.

Jet boating

It’s a boat, with a jet engine. Blast up and down rivers, bumping, splashing and spinning along the way while you get a unique look at the local scenery. One of the best jet boat experiences in the North Island is the Huka Falls Jet in Taupō, the only operator to take you right to the base of the mighty Huka Falls. You’ll zoom past the incredible cliffs and bush and experience the exhilaration of the Huka Jet’s trademark 360 spin. There’s also great jet boating in the Bay of Islands and Rotorua.

Skydiving

Skydiving is one of New Zealand’s most iconic adrenaline activities. At Taupo Tandem Skydiving, you’ll get stunning views from coast to coast on your flight up to your chosen height, then float blissfully into the blue after an exhilarating freefall of up to 75 seconds. Other awesome skydiving spots include Tauranga, the Bay of Islands and Masterton.

Bungy jumping

Jumping off a high place attached to a bit of string is a definite must-do for adrenaline junkies in New Zealand. In Auckland you can either jump off the top of the Auckland Harbour Bridge, or scare pedestrians below with an inner-city SkyJump off the SkyTower. Taupō offers New Zealand’s only cliff-top bungy, and Rotorua Bungy will have you leaping off a purpose-built tower.

White-water rafting

The rivers, gorges and waterfalls of the North Island offer rapids up to grade five for some of the most exciting thrills and spills around. Operators around Rotorua, Taupō, Tongariro and Tauranga will provide you with the dinghy, the lifejackets and the tour guides just crazy enough to guarantee you a shrieking good time. Some of the best white-water action can be found with Kaituna Cascades in Rotorua, where you’ll experience grade five rapids and the world’s highest commercially raftable waterfall.

Mountain biking

Rotorua’s Whakarewarewa Forest has an international reputation for its awesome network of mountain biking trails, leading you through redwood forest, over creeks, around ponds, and up some steep inclines for wicked views. You’ll also find great trails in Taupō and around Tongariro National Park, such as the Great Lake Trail and the 42 Traverse.

Ski an active volcano

Mount Ruapehu boasts some of the best slopes in the North Island, including New Zealand’s largest ski field, Whakapapa. You’ll find Tukino on the mountain’s eastern slopes, a smaller club field offering great off-piste action away from the crowds, while Whakapapa and its sister field Tūroa have all the amenities including ski schools, gear hire and cafés, with plenty of black runs to keep the experts happy.

Get a load of this subtropical treasure trove of lush native bush, pristine beaches, volcanic monoliths and geothermal wonders that is Te Ika-a-Māui, the North Island.

Cathedral Cove

Film scouts saw the potential in this massive white stone arch, and so should you. Famously used as a location in The Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian, Cathedral Cove on The Coromandel Peninsula is one of the North Island’s iconic sights. No cars allowed – make the 2.5 kilometre walk in, or appreciate the beauty of the whole Te Whanganui-A-Hei Marine Reserve on a kayak tour.

Waitomo Caves

Deep underground, you’ll find brightly-lit constellations of glow-worms. Explore these otherwordly caves on foot with a local tour company, or get wet on an underground tubing adventure with The Legendary Black Water Rafting Co.

Lake Taupō

The biggest lake in Australasia and a stunning scenic spot with myriad attractions, Lake Taupō is a destination for on-water sightseeing, and a hub for off-water adventures. The lake shore is ripe with bush-clad mountains, crystal clear water and rushing waterfalls. Be sure to join a kayak tour or board a cruise to see the awe-inspiring 10-metre Māori rock carving at Mine Bay before you leave.

Wai-O-Tapu

Feeling hot, hot, hot! Sitting in the heart of the Pacific Ring of Fire, Rotorua is a literal hot spot of geothermal activity. Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland is a colourful landscape sculpted by geothermal activity, boasting bubbling mud pools, geysers, steaming ground, and the famous orange-rimmed Champagne Pool.

Tāne Mahuta

Feel very small but somehow peaceful as you stand in the shadow of Tāne Mahuta, a giant kauri tree known as the God of the Forest. This magnificent tree is estimated to be between 1250 and 2500 years old, is about 13 metres around and over 51m tall – the largest living kauri in the country. Tāne Mahuta is steeped in Māori mythology, and all living creatures in Waipoua Forest are regarded as Tāne’s children.

Tongariro National Park

With towering volcanoes, bright turquoise lakes and vast fields of golden tussocks, Tongariro National Park is a natural wonder of natural wonders. A dual World Heritage Site for its cultural and spiritual significance to Māori as well as its incredible scenery, this breathtaking national park is home to three volcanoes: Mount Ruapehu (with some of the best skiing in the North Island), Mount Tongariro, and Mount Ngāuruhoe, also known as Mount Doom. See the famous Emerald Lakes on the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, which many consider to be Aotearoa’s best one-day walk.

Whakarewarewa Forest

Get on a mountain bike or explore this magnificent stand of California redwoods on foot. The mountain bike trails weave through native bush under the canopy of towering redwoods, and meander upwards to a gorgeous outlook over Rotorua’s lakes and Mount Tawawera.

Hole in the Rock

With a whole Bay of Islands to explore in Northland, it’s hard to pick a top sight among the blue waters, rainforested isles and natural formations, but the Hole in the Rock is right up there. Get up close to this naturally-formed rock archway and even travel through it on a cruise or jet boat ride from Paihia or Russell, and spot marine wildlife along the way.

Piha

Just an hour’s drive from Auckland central in the heart of the Waitakere Ranges, Piha is one of the west coast’s famous black sand beaches and a perfect spot for a cruisy day out. Some of the best views can be had from a lookout point along the road in from Auckland, and the imposing Lion Rock offers a good climb with panoramic views down the beach.

This World Heritage Site contains some of Aotearoa New Zealand’s best untamed natural beauty. Fiordland is the perfect place to disconnect from busy modern life and soak in the soul-feeding wonders.

Get out on the water with a cruise, kayak or jet boating tour, or see it all from above on a scenic flight. Get up close to wildlife at a bird sanctuary, under the water, or even underground. And put on your hiking boots or cycling helmet to explore Fiordland on land – this is home to three of New Zealand’s Great Walks.

Get on the water and kayak the sounds

A kayaking journey allows you to explore the breathtaking beauty of Fiordland at a leisurely pace, with plenty of time for gazing around you in awe. Discover the quiet, undisturbed corners of Milford Sound and Doubtful Sound on trips ranging from one hour to a full day, or get the full wilderness experience with Go Orange Kayak’s Doubtful Overnighter, where you’ll make camp in a beautiful forest between two days of exploring the fiords.

Go beneath the surface at Milford Sound

Milford Sound is known as New Zealand’s coral capital, and you can see for yourself the truth of this title on a scuba diving expedition with Descend Scuba Diving. You’ll see incredible species that can usually only be found in the deep ocean, such as red coral and the legendary black coral trees. Keep an eye out for other inhabitants of this underwater kingdom such as dogfish sharks, crayfish, octopus, stingrays, sea dragons and seals.

See Fiordland on the big screen

Ata Whenua – Shadowland is a 32-minute film that puts Fiordland’s famous scenery front and centre, with helicopter footage showcasing the remote rivers, lakes, rainforests and mountains that can’t be accessed any other way. The film is always showing at Fiordland Cinema in Te Anau, and if you feel like catching a new release, the cinema has a good range of those playing as well.

Find underground magic at Te Anau glowworm caves

Cruise across Lake Te Anau and enter the network of incredible 12,000-year-old limestone caves, worn through by the force of the river that flows through them. On a Real Journeys guided tour, you’ll head through the fascinating sculpted passages, past whirlpools and an underground waterfall before you re-board a boat to get to the glowworm grotto – a magical underground night sky.

Hike a third of all New Zealand’s Great Walks

Smash a hole in your bucket list, rack up some massive bragging rights and see one of the best parts of the world. The fact that three of New Zealand’s nine Great Walks are in Fiordland attests to the majesty of this area’s landscapes. Tick the Milford, Routeburn and Kepler tracks off in one huge trip or in several successive visits to Fiordland. Each hike takes three to four days and can be walked independently or as part of a guided walk. Accommodation in DOC huts or campsites along the routes must be booked in advance.

Cycle the Lake2Lake trail

For a trail you can tick off in a single day under pedal power, check out the Lake2lake cycle trail, running alongside Lake Te Anau and down the Waiau River to Lake Manapouri. This scenic and easy-grade trail can be used in either direction, 32kms each way, or ridden as a loop. The Church in Manapouri is a great place to stop off and fuel up with lunch or a coffee.

Fly fish in world-class waters

The crystal-clear waters with abundant rainbow and brown trout are great for keen anglers and beginners alike – this is one of the world’s best regions for trout fishing. Hit up one of the knowledgeable local guides to tap the best spots and gear up to catch your own dinner.

Spin it up in a cinematic landscape on a jet boating adventure

See parts of Fiordland that you can’t get to by road with some exhilarating adventure into the bargain. Jet boating on the Waiau or Wairaurahiri Rivers and onto Lake Manapouri is a thrilling ride that will take you through stunning surrounds and teach you about the unique environment which made for the perfect setting for films such as The Lord of The Rings and Jurassic Park.

Get the horizon-to-horizon view from the air

For an experience that will leave you slack jawed and breathless, get yourself on a scenic flight to admire the unparalleled beauty of this World Heritage Site from the air. Southern Lakes Helicopters has several flights available, taking in highlights from the Hidden Lakes to remote alpine landings and the Dusky, Doubtful and Milford Sounds.

Explore the fiords in style on a lake cruise

Kick back and watch some of the world’s most magnificent scenery glide by while you enjoy commentary from your guides and a hot or cold beverage. You could try the yachts on Lake Te Anau or a multi-day cruise exploring all the more isolated fiords, with many operators providing options to swim, dive, kayak or fish on your journey.

Get your native birdwatching on at Punanga Manu o Te Anau bird sanctuary

Don’t miss your opportunity to see the rare kākā and takahē, as well as lots of other melodious natives like ruru koukou, korimako, kererū and tūī at this family-friendly bird sanctuary. Take a guided tour and see some of the birds being fed, or explore the sanctuary on your own. Don’t forget the camera – this is a perfect place to practise your wildlife photography skills. The conservation efforts at the sanctuary support the recovery of kākā and takahē in the wild.

Cruise to the underwater observatory

Discover an entire underwater world without even getting wet! New Zealand’s only floating underwater observatory is located in the Piopiotahi Marine Reserve. You can observe life 10 metres under the surface, where you might see all manner of creatures from starfish and snake stars to black coral – but remember, the fish here are free to come and go as they please, so there is an element of luck involved. The observatory is only accessible by boat on a Discover More cruise with Southern Discoveries.

Carry your boat into the bush

A unique experience that’s part kayaking journey, part backpacking trip, packrafting is a unique and adventurous way to experience Fiordland. The great thing about packrafts is their portability – this is a small inflatable boat you can squash down and carry with you, which makes exploring the wilderness a breeze. Packrafting New Zealand offers three packrafting expeditions in Fiordland, from the entry level to the advanced.

Befriend alpacas at Kepler Mountain View Alpaca Farm

Meet and mingle with these fuzzy, friendly locals on an alapaca farm tour. You’ll get to hand-feed the alpacas and learn about how they are farmed in New Zealand and check out how their wool is used. Stop in at the Wild Wool Gallery on your way out and pick up a soft wool blanket or clothing item to snuggle up in back home.

Up your photography game

No doubt you’ll be extraordinarily snap happy in this land of jaw-dropping scenery, so why not brush up on your technical skills and take your holiday snaps to the next level? William Patino Photography has tours suitable for the novice through to the professional, and can take you to the highlights of Fiordland or trek into the wilderness to find more remote, unique landscapes. Southern Photography Adventures offers plenty of tips while out on your tour, and specialises in astrophotography, with a variety of longer workshops also available.

If you like to stroll the green on award-winning courses surrounded by stunning scenery, Te Wiapounamu’s golf courses have plenty to offer. There’s something in our array of epic courses to suit all players and budgets, so find your nearest course or set your sights on a dream golfing destination.

Clearwater Resort

This 18-hole championship course was designed with input from renowned Kiwi golfer Sir Bob Charles, and is a destination for international professional golf. Its sparkling lakes and scenic surrounds make it the perfect tranquil oasis just on Christchurch’s doorstep.

Terrace Downs

Nestled in the foothills of the Southern Alps, Terrace Downs is a delight for all levels, with a spectacular alpine backdrop as the cherry on top. The high country setting and varied hole design of this 18-hole par 72 course make any round an exciting and strategic challenge.

Millbrook Resort

Also designed by Sir Bob Charles, Millbrook’s 27-hole championship course is one of the world’s finest alpine courses, where a camera is as essential a part of your kit as anything else. Home to the New Zealand Open, three fabulous nine-hole courses make extraordinary use of the natural terrain to provide a world-class golfing experience.

Russley Golf Club

The beautiful parkland of the Russley Golf Club is conveniently located close to Christchurch Airport and provides a premium golfing experience for members and newcomers alike. Winner of Club of the Year in the Golf NZ 2020 National Golf Awards, Russley is known for its warm, welcoming atmosphere and great conversation.

Pegasus Golf Club

Just a short drive north of Christchurch, this parklands-style course boasts beautiful water features, natural wetlands, impeccable fairways and views of the mountain ranges on the horizon, offering an enjoyable and memorable game for all abilities.

Otago Golf Club

This historic club was founded in 1871, the oldest golf club in the Southern Hemisphere! The hilly terrain and leafy surrounds make for a beautiful and exciting day on the links.

Methven Golf Club

Providing country golf at its finest, this 18-hole course is framed by beautiful views of Mount Hutt and the Southern Alps, featuring large greens and tree-lined fairways. The club is just an hour’s drive from Christchurch and is open all year round to members and casual golfers.

Arrowtown Golf Club

A historic short course in picturesque surrounds, the holes at Arrowtown Golf Club each boast their own attraction, including the ruins of stone cottages left over from Arrowtown’s pioneers.

Queenstown Golf Club

The 18-hole course occupies most of the end of the Kelvin Peninsula. It’s a major feature of Lake Wakatipu and can be spotted from any of the surrounding mountains. A course highlight is the majestic fifth hole, where skilled hitters playa game of chicken with the lake. The club also operates a nine-hole course at Frankton.

This sun-drenched corner of the South Island is the largest wine-growing region in New Zealand, and you should take full advantage by visiting a few wineries and sampling the famous Sauvignon Blanc.

There are plenty of opportunities to experience the magnificent Marlborough Sounds, whether it’s on a kayak tour, cruise, or hike. Absorb some of the region’s fascinating history at Picton Museum or the Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre, and sample the local fare at Blenheim’s farmers’ markets.

Tour world-class wineries

Let’s just say that if a winery tour is not top of your Marlborough to-do list, you’re doing something wrong. The region is overflowing with beautiful, world-class wineries where you can stop, sip, and soak in your surrounds at a leisurely pace. Hiring a bike or joining a winery cycle tour is a great way to get from vineyard to vineyard – many of them are within a 5-kilometre radius. The Golden Mile is a popular ride, encompassing nine wineries over 6km, and you can even win a prize by crossing at least five of the official stops off your list.

Strap in at the Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre

Blenheim’s Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre boasts an incredible collection of WWI and WWII aircraft, including Sir Peter Jackson’s personal collection of WWI planes, dioramas and rare memorabilia. Many of the planes are still flyable and take to the skies every second year at Easter for the famous Classic Fighters Airshow. For an absolute once-in-a-lifetime thrill, there’s also the option to take a Joy Flight in a vintage WWII plane from the Omaka Airfield.

Shop like a local at the weekend markets

The Marlborough Farmers’ Market is the place to go for top-quality, super fresh seasonal produce, artisan goods, baked treats and hot food and drinks, straight from farm to stall. The market is on every Sunday morning until 12 at Blenheim’s A&P Showgrounds. If you’re looking for gifts, or something nice to take home for yourself, the Marlborough Artisan Market sells 100% local crafts, including woodwork, pottery, and natural body products. Find it at the Wynen Street car park on Saturdays from 9am – 1pm.

Take a walk and a visual journey at Wairau Lagoon

Feel like you’re walking through a painting on this easy, flat walkway, where the golden grasses and blue water make for a stunningly picturesque scene. You can choose to do a section of the track, or the entire loop, taking approximately three hours. Keep an eye out for royal spoonbills and godwits.

Walk or bike the Queen Charlotte Track

This well-known coastal track winding 72km from Ship Cove to Anakiwa is a spectacular trail for either walking or biking. You’ll discover historic bays, lush forest and panoramic views over the three-to-five-day walk, and there is also the option to hop aboard a water taxi on any given day if you feel like a break from walking, and the taxis can also transport your gear to your accommodation. You can get to the start of the track at Ship Cove on a boat from Picton.

Step into the past at the Picton Heritage & Whaling Museum

See a diverse collection of Māori, maritime and whaling artefacts. Immerse yourself in what life as a whaler was like, discover historical collections dating back to the 1700s and gain a deeper understanding of the early settlers of this area.

Paddle among the penguins

Navigate the waves and see abundant wildlife and stunning vistas on a sea kayaking expedition through the Marlborough Sounds. Sea Kayaking Adventures has options for both self-guided and guided kayak tours, giving you the chance to choose the perfect tour to suit you. A half-day tour showcases the best Queen Charlotte Sound has to offer, from its natural beauty to its wild inhabitants, including stingrays, seals, penguins, dolphins, and maybe even orca. A full-day tour allows you time to explore more fully, taking you to secluded beaches and alongside native bush, with a homemade picnic lunch included. There are also multi-day excursions available.

Help deliver the mail on a Marlborough Sounds mail boat cruise

This may be the most scenic mail route you’ll ever get the chance to tag along for – The Beachcomber Cruises Mail Boat Cruise and The Pelorus Mail Boat are the only two official licensed NZ Post rural delivery services by water in the Marlborough Sounds. Joining the mail boat for a cruise as it delivers mail, groceries and other essentials to residents without road access is a unique glimpse into life here, as well as a chance to see parts of the sounds that are considered ‘off the beaten track’.

Swim with dolphins in the sounds

An experience you’ll never forget – sharing the water with wild dusky, bottlenose, and Hector’s dolphins in the calm, blue waters of the Marlborough Sounds. E-Ko Tours is the only operator in Picton offering the chance to swim with the dolphins, and you’ll likely see seals and a variety of sea birds on your way out as well. E-Ko Tours also has an exclusive no seasickness guarantee, so no worries about being too green to enjoy your journey!

Walk the boards of the Edwin Fox in Picton

See a unique piece of history in dry dock at Picton – The Edwin Fox is the last surviving ship that transported convicts to Australia, the oldest wooden vessel that brought immigrants to New Zealand, and the oldest merchant ship in the world. Visit the Edwin Fox Ship and Visitor Centre for the chance to walk the decks of this heritage ship and imagine what life might have been like on board.

Dive a shipwreck

Meet locals like dolphins, seals and stingrays in their natural habitat in the Marlborough Sounds, and join a guided expedition to dive the Mikhail Lermontov wreck, one of the world’s largest diveable wrecks.

Kayak locations from The Hobbit

Get yourself in a kayak and head down the Pelorus River to get a first-hand look at the location where the famous barrel scene in The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug was filmed. Pelorus Eco Adventures offers a fully guided tour of the location, complete with background info on the history of the area, and you’ll also get the chance to stand on the same rocks and pass the same waterfall as seen in the movie.

Dine in style on a Greenshell Mussel Cruise

Try the local delicacy of greenshell mussels in the stunning surrounds where they are grown. The half-day Greenshell Mussel Cruise cruise departs from Havelock and serves freshly steamed mussels perfectly paired with a glass of Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc while you drift through the magnificent Pelorus Sound on a comfortable catamaran.

Catch a water taxi to D’Urville Island

Head from the beautiful French Pass to D’Urville Island on a water taxi to enter a world of adventure. The 200-hectare bush island is home to excellent walking and mountain biking trails, glow-worm grottos and stunning bird life. For the anglers among us, the island is perfectly positioned next to some very productive fishing grounds, which are best taken advantage of on a D’Urville Island Wilderness Resort Fishing Charter.

It’s one of the North Island’s favourite holiday destinations – ringed by golden beaches, blanketed in green valleys and beautiful rainforests, and dotted with quirky, creative and historical towns, The Coromandel is a place perfect for leisure. Kick back in a hot spring (after digging it yourself!), glide through sea caves and marine reserves on a kayak tour, or admire the natural beauty all around on a hike, bike, or train.

Luxuriate in thermal mineral water

Treat yourself to a bit of quality R&R in beautiful surrounds at one of the excellent mineral spas in The Coromandel. The Lost Spring in Whitianga is set in native bush, and the mineral-rich waters range from 32 to 41 degrees. You can also indulge at the tree top day spa with a full menu of treatments to choose from. Athenree Hot Springs & Holiday Park is the perfect place to create memories, surrounded by mature puriri trees and a chorus of native birdsong. And then there’s the classic Coromandel DIY hot pool experience at Hot Water Beach – bring a spade, head down at low tide and dig a hole in the sand until you hit hot water! Bliss.

Visit our natural cathedral

One of The Coromandel’s most famous sights and the location of a well-known scene from The Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian, Cathedral Cove is an absolute must-see. A great way to take in the full majesty of this natural rock archway is on a kayak tour, where you’ll get to appreciate Te Whanganui-A-Hei Marine Reserve and admire the beauty of the beach and cove from the water. With Cathedral Cove Kayak Tours, you’ll enjoy coffee or hot chocolate and cookies at Cathedral Cove before heading back to the kayaks. You can also walk to Cathedral Cove from Hahei – be sure to take the detour to the viewing platform on the way.

Ride the Hauraki Rail Trail

A must-do for any cycling enthusiast and a great laid-back ride for all ages, this gentle trail is one of New Zealand’s Great Rides, taking you through historic towns, idyllic farmland and native forest. It’s broken up into five sections, making it easy to tackle as much or as little of the journey as you want, with plenty of options to explore The Coromandel further. It begins in Kaiaua, heading along the Shorebird Coast to Thames and then down to Paeroa (where you can detour off to Waihi) and Te Aroha before finishing in Matamata, home of Hobbiton.

All aboard the Driving Creek Railway

This one-hour journey on a cute-as-a-button red and green train runs through a lush mountain gorge. At the other end, you’ll enjoy the views from the aptly named Eyefull Tower viewing platform, as well as a wildlife sanctuary, art gallery and café. The journey is accompanied by commentary on the history of Driving Creek, and you might spot some artwork and pottery sculptures along the way.

Take an overnight hike at The Pinnacles

You’ll traverse streams and swing bridges and get spectacular 360-degree views over the entire Coromandel from the summit of the Kauaeranga Kauri Trail in Coromandel Forest Park. It’s a popular trail that follows an historic early 1900s packhorse route through a stunning kauri valley. The full hike is an overnight adventure with DOC hut accommodation that must be booked in advance, or there are options to walk shorter sections with the Webb Creek Track and Billygoat Track.

Hit the road and check out the local art

The Coromandel is well known for being a creative hub. In the region’s many small towns of this area, you’ll find a wealth of art galleries, studios and workshops showcasing the talents of this artistic community. Try The Little Gallery, with branches in Tairua and Whangamatā, where you’ll find jewellery, paintings, sculptures and more from established Coromandel artists. The Hauraki House Gallery in Coromandel town holds regular exhibitions in the historic school building, while Thames is home to Bounty Store, Carsons Gallery and ArohArt. And you’ll want to fill your entire kitchen with the treasures at Alan Rhodes Pottery in Whitianga and The Laughing Pottery in Waihi.

Fly above the trees on a zipline

Admire The Coromandel’s beauty from above and blow away some cobwebs while you’re about it on a zipline tour. Coromandel Zipline Tours shoots you through Driving Creek’s replanted kauri forest and over gullies and streams while giving you some background on the area’s transformation from kauri logging and goldmining to a hand-planted native forest.

Turn on The Waterworks

Just 7km from Coromandel town, quirky theme park The Waterworks features an array of water-powered inventions to play with, including water cannons, water-pumping bikes and a human-sized hamster wheel, most of which are made from recycled materials. With a large adventure playground, free BBQs and a swimming hole to enjoy in summer, this is the ideal place for a family picnic or day out.

Give a man a fish

A marine playground like The Coromandel is rife with excellent fishing, and there are lots of ways to explore the ocean bounty of this region. Surfcast from the shore, join a charter and scour the deep, or harvest a bounty from a mussel farm. Mussel Barge Snapper Safaris have full or half day charters available in and around the mussel farms of The Coromandel, while there are several other operators offering charters along the coast and outer islands.

Take in the massive views from Shakespeare Cliff

For an easy walk with maximum reward, head up to Shakespeare Cliff, where you can enjoy sweeping views across the bay, including Whitianga, Mercury Bay and Cooks Beach. The lookout is a great spot for a picnic, with a large grassy area to relax on, or if it’s warm you can take the steep path down to Lonely Bay Beach for a dip.

Unearth New Zealand’s goldmining history

As the first place in New Zealand to uncover gold, The Coromandel is rich (pun intended) with goldmining history. Some of the best places to learn about this fascinating part of New Zealand’s past are Coromandel town and Thames, which were the first goldfields in the area, and Waihi, which was home to the richest mine in the country. In the Broken Hills gorge you can still see old railway tracks and two mine tunnels, one of which is still being worked today.

Put the Paeroa in L&P

It’d be rude not to pay a visit to the little town of Paeroa, it’s ‘world famous in New Zealand’! This is the home of what many consider to be our national drink, L&P, AKA Lemon & Paeroa. Take a photo with the giant L&P bottle and grab a bottle of the good stuff while you browse the many antique stores, or cruise the river on a historic kauri paddleboat.

Feed your soul on the Coromandel Coastal Walkway

This seven-ish-hour walk covers some of the more remote parts of The Coromandel Peninsula between Stony Bay and Fletcher Bay. The varied landscape passes through farmland, native bush, along the coastline and beneath Mount Moehau, providing views to gape at the entire way.

Explore the Orua Sea Cave

You can visit Orua, one of New Zealand’s largest sea caves, on a boat tour, snorkelling adventure or cruise. Sea Cave Adventures’ Orua Tour takes you to Cathedral Cove and through Te Whanganui-A-Hei Marine Reserve as well as Orua Sea Cave and the other caves and blowholes of the Orua coastline, while the local guides impart knowledge of the marine life and Māori history of the area.

Float inside an island at Whenuakura Wildlife Sanctuary

Whenuakura (Donut Island) is shaped like a donut, with a 12-metre-high cave giving access from the sea to the internal lagoon. As a protected wildlife sanctuary, the only way to appreciate the island is from the water, so kayak or SUP tours are the perfect way to explore it. Several operators out of Whangamatā offer guided tours and hire of both kayaks and stand-up paddle boards.

Walk a historic railway in Karangahake Gorge

This is another excellent place to discover more of The Coromandel’s goldmining history, with the old mine tunnels on the Windows Walk a major highlight – the windows in question were once used to tip tailings down into the gorge and now provide stunning views out over the valley. You’ll see plenty of concrete and steel mining relics in the gorge, including an old tram trolley and the remnants of a massive stamper battery processing plant, where 50 stampers crushed rocks all day long back in the 1890s.

See into another world on a glass bottom boat tour

Explore the jaw-dropping volcanic coastline and see the world that exists beneath the water on a tour with Glass Bottom Boat Whitianga. You’ll see iconic attractions like Cathedral Cove and Orua Sea Cave from a different perspective, and spot a huge variety of sea life including red snapper, blue mau mau, crayfish, octopus and stingrays. If you keep your eyes out, you might also see blue penguins, seals, dolphins and orca breaking the surface, while the team of marine scientists teach you about the animals you’re seeing and the precious eco system they are part of.

Visit one of the world’s top 10 beaches

If there’s one beach you visit while in The Coromandel, Wainuiototo New Chum should be it. With its picture-perfect stretch of golden sand fringed by pōhutukawa trees and native bush, turquoise water and complete lack of buildings, roads or populace, it’s easy to see why this was voted one of the top ten beaches in the world. You might even see dotterels trotting along the sand and orca or dolphins cruising in the water. There’s a bit of a walk over the headland to access the beach, which is why you’ll always find it free of the teeming Coromandel crowds.

Gaze into the galaxy on a B&B astronomy tour

Admire a sight you can only get when you leave the big cities with Stargazers Bed & Breakfast. The astronomy tour takes place on an elevated observation deck where you can admire the magic of a southern night sky under dark sky conditions, and your guides will teach you how to recognise certain constellations and discuss how early Māori and Polynesian voyagers used the stars to navigate by. You’ll get the chance to look through the telescope in the astronomy dome and even handle real meteorites.

View huge waterfalls and mine shafts in Wentworth Valley

One of The Coromandel’s most biggest waterfalls can be found on the Wentworth Falls walk, an easy track alongside the Wentworth River with two bridged crossings before you head uphill to get the best view of the falls. They’re in two drops of 20 metres each, and if you choose, you can then take the steeper track up to the basin at the top. The Mines Walk takes you through peaceful kauri forest past two mine shafts.

The Bay of Islands is a subtropical paradise with myriad ways to enjoy the sparkling blue waters. It’s also home to charming towns, natural wonders, a spot of adventure, and some seriously significant pieces of New Zealand history.

Cruise through the Hole in the Rock for a spectacular photo op

An iconic geological feature of the area, you’ll certainly recognise this hole from local postcards, and you’d be missing out not to get up close to it on either a relaxed cruise or thrilling jet boat ride. Fullers GreatSights cruises out of Paihia or Russell also offer the opportunity to go wildlife spotting while out on the water.

Treat yo’ self at Makana Confections

Visit this boutique chocolate factory where you can watch the confectioners making glorious small-batch chocolates by hand. Taste samples and take a treat or five home from the shop. Don’t go past the Champagne Truffles for a touch of luxury, and take a few Chocolate Dipped Macadamia Shortbreads home for treat emergencies.

Visit the birthplace of Aotearoa New Zealand at Waitangi Treaty Grounds

One of the most significant historical sites in the country, the Waitangi Treaty Grounds are a must-visit when you’re in the Bay of Islands. A Day Pass gets you access to a guided tour, a cultural performance in the stunning carved meeting house, entry to Te Kangahu Museum of Waitangi, carving demonstrations in the Māori Carving Studio, and plenty of time to explore the grounds yourself, with extensive gardens, bush tracks and wonderful views.

Spend the night on the water

Meet new people, try new things and experience the best of Bay of Islands adventure on The Rock Adventure Cruise, the bay’s only overnight cruise. You’ll get to try your hand at target shooting, go fishing at dusk and eat your catch fresh off the barbie, marvel at the glowing phosphorescence on a night kayaking trip, and explore fascinating and beautiful spots all around the islands.

Go dolphin spotting

The Bay of Islands is bursting with abundant wildlife, and heading out on the crystal blue waters to cruise alongside playful dolphins is sure to leave a smile on your face. You might also spot penguins, gannets, and even an orca or a whale on your journey, so keep an eye out! On a full day cruise with CArino Wildlife Cruises you’ll also get the chance to explore and snorkel around remote islands and enjoy a picnic lunch.

Explore the coast on horseback

A horse trek is a unique and natural way to explore the landscape and get incredible views across the bay. Horse Trek’n has a range of treks with experienced guides who teach you about local culture and wildlife as you go. In summer, the Ride the Waves trek gives you the chance to take your horse for a swim!

Dive the Rainbow Warrior, the ship sunk by French spies

After Greenpeace’s flagship the Rainbow Warrior was bombed and sunk in 1985, the wreck was refloated and scuttled in Matauri Bay, where it is now an artificial reef and world-renowned dive site. Several operators in the Bay of Islands run dive expeditions to the wreck, where you’ll get to see the literal rainbow of anemones now covering the Rainbow Warrior, as well as the huge variety of marine life that have made this their home.

Marvel at forest giants at Puketi Forest

The Puketi Nature Trail is an easy walk through an ancient kauri rainforest that is also wheelchair accessible. Treat your ears to some beautiful native birdsong while admiring the magnificent kauri grove. To go deeper into the forest, try a guided Puketi Forest tour and learn about the efforts of conservationists to protect this precious eco system.

Tee off in style at the Waitangi Golf Club

Enjoy fantastic views over the Bay of Islands and to Russell, bush and forest views inland, and river and estuary views over Waitangi on this 18-hole course that caters to golfers looking for a relaxing round or a bit of a challenge.

See living stars at Kawiti Caves

Step into a fairy tale in the awe-inspiring limestone formations of these historic caves. Thousands of tiny glow-worms light up the roof and walls, with tours still run by descendants of Māori chief Kawiti. Entertaining commentary and rich local knowledge from your guides make this an intimate and informative glow-worm experience.

Sail tall on the Bay of Islands

A journey on tall sailing ship the R. Tucker Thompson is a rare opportunity to learn the ropes of a working heritage vessel, from setting the sails to climbing the rigging. Choose from a day trip, 2.5-hour Sundowner trip, or an immersive 3-day experience, all of which are great ways to experience the beauty of the bay and make friends with your fellow sailors.

Cycle the Pou Herenga Tai - Twin Coast Cycle Trail

The spectacular scenery and rich history on this route from the Bay of Islands to Hokianga Harbour is a rewarding and relaxing ride, traversing tranquil coast, native forest, suspension bridges and rolling farmland.

Get the chopper’s-eye view of the Bay’s scenery

Take in the jaw-dropping scenery and get some seriously enviable photo ops on a Bay of Islands scenic flight with Salt Air. Departing from Paihia, these helicopter rides take you over the turquoise waters and white beaches to the famous Hole in The Rock, the Cape Brett lighthouse and the peninsula coastline, with an option to extend further along the eastern coast and over Waitangi.

Don’t spare the rod with a chartered fishing trip

The bay is an excellent fishing destination, especially for snapper. Book yourself a fishing charter with one of the many top-notch operators in the area, or head out and explore the local spots under your own steam – there are heaps of shops around Russell and Paihia that hire out equipment if you need it.

Float among the clouds on a parasailing flight

A fun and unique way to experience the Bay of Islands is gliding above it all on a brightly coloured parachute. Flying Kiwi offers single, tandem or triple parasailing flights, and you can choose to get dipped in the water or hang upside down if you want!

Surf’s up

Whether you’re an experienced surfer or want to stand up on a board for the first time, the Bay of Islands with its long coastline of pristine beaches is an excellent place to do it. NZ Surf Academy can teach you the skills you need to hang ten in these beautiful surrounds, and if you’re on the hunt for some of the best spots, try Tokerau Beach, Taupō Bay, Wainui Bay and Takou Bay.

Kick it old-skool at Pompallier Mission

In the historic town of Russell, the first capital of New Zealand, you’ll find Pompallier Mission and Printery, where church texts were translated from Latin into Māori in the 1840s. It is New Zealand’s oldest industrial building, and a guided heritage tour gives insight into the 19^th Century printing and bookbinding techniques, as well as the building’s unique French-style architectural features.

Ride the Bay of Islands vintage railway

Take a chug back in time on the Bay of Islands Vintage Railway, the only working railway in New Zealand to run right through the middle of a town. It was the first railway to be opened in the North Island and has been running for over 150 years. Enjoy a ride on this historic steam engine through the scenic countryside and over the longest curved bridge in the Southern Hemisphere.

Explore Urupukapuka Island

The largest island in the Bay of Islands, Urupukapuka Island boasts fabulous beaches and walking tracks ranging from one to five hours, including the Urupukapuka Island Archeological Walk. The Island Conservation Centre is a great place to learn about the island’s history and the conservation efforts being undertaken here.

Discover nature’s wonders at Hokianga Harbour

Located in beautiful and lush native bush, the Wairere boulders are a unique geological phenomenon that can be found nowhere else on earth. The basalt boulders were formed by the gentle erosion of rain, which becomes mildly acidic when it falls through kauri trees. Explore the network of walking trails, kayak through the rivers out to the Hokianga Harbour, or visit the Highland cows.

Get off the beaten track and experience untamed nature in the raw and rugged Catlins. You’ll find gorgeous waterfalls and quirky collections of curiosities, see rare wildlife and unique geological wonders, and discover plenty of ways to admire the wild, unrestrained beauty of this stunning landscape.

See the shipwreck of the Ino at Fortrose

Head along to Fortrose at low tide to see skeletal remains of the steamship Ino sticking up out of the sand. The ship was built in Hokitika and grounded here in 1886. While you’re here, go wetland wildlife spotting, and take a photo with the giant pukeko statue in the town. If you’re a golfer, Fortrose is also home to New Zealand’s southernmost nine-hole course at the Tokanui Golf Club.

Hear the roar at Jacks Blowhole

See seawater surge and explode up out of this blowhole over 200 metres inland. Water crashes noisily through this 55-metre-deep hole and creates a spectacular sight at Jacks Bay. It’s a beautiful walk to get to the blowhole, with incredible ocean views once you get there.

Check out the local wildlife

The Catlins is a veritable coastal safari, with an abundance of wildlife including seals, sea lions, penguins, and dolphins. Surat Bay is a great place to watch the sea lion colony going about its business – just be sure to keep a safe distance. For yellow-eyed penguins, head to Roaring Bay, where you can view the little waddlers coming in from the ocean for the evening from a hide on the hill. The best time is between 3pm and dusk.

Chase a few waterfalls

There are several gorgeous waterfalls in the Catlins, all accessible via short, gentle walking tracks. One of the prettiest and most popular is Purakaunui Falls, which cascade beautifully over rocks into the river, made extra stunning after a bit of rain. The easy track is wheelchair accessible to the viewing platform at the top of the falls. McLean Falls is the highest in the Catlins, reached via a 30-minute loop track and featuring highly photogenic terraces. A peaceful two-and-a-half-hour walk through native coastal forest leads you to Waipohatu Falls, and a 30-minute track in the Table Hill Scenic Reserve rewards you with two waterfalls – Matai Falls and Horseshoe Falls. We even have our own Niagara Falls here in New Zealand, although be aware that these falls were named in the same ironic spirit that spawned Rotorua’s ‘Rotovegas’ nickname.

Visit a natural cathedral

One of those natural wonders that makes your jaw drop, the giant Cathedral Caves are bound to make you feel tiny. Each sea-worn passage is approximately 30 metres high and they reach a combined length of 200m. Access the caves at low tide via a one-hour walk through coastal forest and along Waipati beach. There is a small car parking charge, which helps maintain the track and caves. While you’re here, take a detour to the stunning reflective Lake Wilkie, just a few minutes away from the caves.

Grab a photo at New Zealand’s southernmost point

Despite common misconception, the southernmost point of the South Island is not actually Bluff, but here in the Catlins at Slope Point. Visit to collect your bragging rights, and take a photo with the iconic yellow sign showing the distance to the North and South Poles.

See a thousand teapots

An entirely unique sight that has to be seen to be believed, the garden at Owaka dubbed ‘Teapotland’ is absolutely overflowing with teapots of every size, shape and colour, over a thousand of them in total. The collection started with one teapot unearthed in the garden and popped out on the fence for display and has now grown to become a full-on attraction. Try and spot the largest teapot in the collection – and the smallest!

Take a walk to the Nugget Point lighthouse

With dramatic rugged cliffs, panoramic ocean views and resident wildlife, the lighthouse at Nugget Point is one of the most popular attractions in the Catlins. The endlessly photogenic lighthouse is one of the country’s oldest. Peer down at the nugget-like rocks below to see if you can spot fur seals, yellow-eyed penguins, and maybe even sea lions, elephant seals or Hector’s dolphins if you’re lucky. Sunrise is one of the best times to visit, for the least amount of foot traffic and maximum natural beauty.

Inspect the gadgets at The Lost Gypsy Gallery

Art meets endless amusement as you explore this garden filled with water-powered and wind-up contraptions, toys, and curiosities such as a bicycle-powered television and a retro hairdryer that sounds like a kakapo. The one-of-a-kind collection of automata, gadgets and gizmos is created mostly from junk, odds and ends salvaged and given new life by artist Blair Somerville.

See a Jurassic-era forest at Curio Bay

This forest is a remnant from over 170 million years ago when Aotearoa was part of the supercontinent Gondwanaland – you can see the forest’s fossilised remains on the seashore at low tide at Curio Bay. Get a unique comparison of the petrified forest with its living counterpart on the Living Forest walkway, where you can imagine how the fossil trees might have looked millions of years ago. Curio Bay is also home to yellow-eyed penguins, and you may even spot Hector’s dolphins playing in the surf at neighbouring Porpoise Bay during the warmer months. Aspiring surfers can also get some lessons here with the Catlins Surf School.

Sometimes overlooked on the great southern road trip, Oamaru is a destination with wildlife, wine, history and future up its sleeve. Get your fill of penguins, art, natural rock formations and steampunk fantasies.

Go penguin spotting

The most adorable residents of Oamaru are on its coastline, often spotted returning from a hard day’s fishing at sea to tuck into their burrows in the evening. Two of the best spotting spots are Bushy Beach and the Oamaru Blue Penguin Colony. At Bushy Beach, you can see yellow eyed penguins, the world’s rarest penguin, from a purpose-built viewing hide for free. An Oamaru Blue Penguin Colony tour buys you a seat in the grandstand with a perfect vantage point of the world’s smallest penguins heading for their nests.

Check out local art at Forrester Gallery

This grand historic limestone building will blow you away – complete with Corinthian columns, it looks like it was dropped in place from the other side of the world. Originally built for the Bank of New South Wales in 1884, the building now houses a growing collection of art by local and regional artists. It also regularly hosts visiting exhibitions from around the country, educational experiences and talks.

Say cheese at Whitestone Cheese Factory

Wine and cheese are on the menu at this gourmet factory tour. Take a look behind the scenes of Oamaru’s most delicious local success story, the Whitestone Cheese Factory. The guided tour of the factory includes an informative talk and look at the cheesemaking process through special viewing galleries, a cheese tasting, and a goodie bag to take home. The wine matching option includes three glasses of boutique wine to pair perfectly with your cheese samples.

Visit the historic Victorian Precinct

Tap into the heart of Oamaru’s unique charm with a visit to the Victorian Precinct. It’s the most complete collection of Victorian-era buildings in the country, and a walk down the main Harbour Street demonstrates architectural marvels made from historic Oamaru stone. While you’re here, stop in at Grainstore Gallery, an eclectic shop selling antiques, books, furniture and the distinctive artwork of local artist Donna Demente. In November, the Victorian Precinct is the hub for Victorian Heritage Celebrations events, including penny farthing races, a barn dance, and the Victorian fête.

Discover a steam-powered future at Steampunk HQ

Get your goggles on and steam whistles at the ready – Oamaru is officially the steampunk capital of New Zealand (and maybe the world). Steampunk is a Victorian-influenced sci-fi future fantasy, celebrated in Oamaru with an annual festival over Queen’s Birthday weekend. Steampunk HQ is part museum, part gallery, part something entirely its own, with interactive displays and installations – this is a definite Oamaru must-do.

Be transported at Whitestone City

Dive right into the Victorian experience at this fully interactive heritage hub. Learn about Oamaru’s past through a detailed series of façades, imaginative displays, and unique attractions like the penny farthing carousel. You’ll get to dress up in Victorian costume, play traditional games, get a history lesson in the school room and explore of-the-time general stores, barbers, and dispensaries.

Leaving on a steam train

Take a ride on a real vintage steam train for an old-school sightseeing tour of the Victorian Precinct, clay cliffs and harbour. The ride is around half an hour return, stopping at the historic Red Sheds, built in the 1800s and now home to a variety of crafts and sometimes even a penguin or two. The train runs every Sunday from the Harbourside Railway Station, and more regularly during special events.

Take a walk or ride to Lookout Point

One of the best spots in Oamaru to get above it all and soak up views of the harbour and town, with the Southern Alps off to the west. There are good walking and biking tracks in this area too, such as the South Hill Walkway, Harbourside Walkway, or Cape Wanbrow track.

Go see some really cool rocks at Moeraki

We’re actually not having a laugh – these rock formations are so unusual they’ve become popular tourist attractions. The striking and mysteriously spherical shape of these boulders makes for one hell of a photo opportunity. And a little over 30 minutes to the west you’ll find a smattering of large, unusually-shaped limestone rocks (whether they truly resemble elephants or not is open to interpretation) that was also the location for Aslan’s camp in The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe.

Find your inner romantic at the Oamaru Public Gardens

Established in 1876, the Oamaru Public Gardens hold as much historic charm as the rest of the town, with the Italian marble fountain, aviary and Wonderland Garden being a few of the attractions worth seeking out. The Japanese Red Bridge is ridiculously picturesque, and legend has it the century-old Elderslie Summer House is a popular spot for marriage proposals.

Take a drive up the Waitaki Valley

Get in a car and head inland for a beautiful drive with plenty of stopping points along the way. The various dams and bridges along the way are great photo spots, and the lakes formed by the hydrodams make for perfect swimming spots in summer (or waterskiing if you’ve got access to a boat). The town of Kurow is one of the best kept secrets in New Zealand winemaking, and Omarama at the top of the valley is one of the top locations in the country to fly gliders.

Experience the healing properties of slipping into a mineral hot spring, get your pulse racing with one of Rotorua’s famous adventure activities, and learn more about New Zealand’s history through a Māori cultural experience.

Go mountain biking in Whakarewarewa Forest

This majestic redwood forest is rocking 130km of MTB trails, with varying landscape and fantastic scenery leaving no question why this is a premier riding destination.

Walk among the redwoods in Whakarewarewa Forest

Yep, it’s not just for wheels. Feel the tranquillity wash over you as you venture into the cool, calm, quiet atmosphere created by these mighty trees, either on foot or horseback. The Redwoods Treewalk is a must-do, sitting 20 metres above the forest floor and traversing a series of 28 suspension bridges to get the birds’ eye view of this ancient forest.

Warm body and soul in natural hot springs

Famous for its incredible geothermal activity, Rotorua is awash with delicious rejuvenating mineral spas on offer. Take in some beautiful scenery while your troubles melt away at the lakeside Polynesian Spa; say goodbye to aches and hello to silky skin after a session at Waikite Valley Thermal Pools; or partake in the ancient practice of a geothermal mud bath followed by a sulphur soak at Hell’s Gate.

Immerse yourself in Māori culture at Tamaki Māori Village

This award-winning attraction is a fully recreated traditional village dedicated to changing the way people experience cultural storytelling. This immersive experience will teach you about tangata (people), whenua (land) and atua (spirit) from a Māori perspective. Choose from a daytime, evening or overnight experience and partake in different customs and traditions.

Zip-a-dee doo-dah

Zoom through trees and sky on a zipline tour that will leave you with a smile on your face. Rotorua Canopy Tours will take you on an adventure through a 119-year-old forest as you explore the network of ziplines, swing bridges, tree-top platforms and cliff walks, while Skyline Rotorua gives you the thrill of flying over the redwoods in a gondola with Lake Rotorua as your backdrop.

Watch the cauldron bubble at Kuiaru Park

The absolute best place in Rotorua to see the effects of geothermal activity for free, a walk around Kuiaru Park will have you hanging mesmerised over thickly bubbling mud pools and walking through the steam of a boiling hot crater lake. You may get the urge to cackle loudly and randomly recite some potion ingredients – don’t fight it.

Go luge or go home

The famous Rotorua Luge is one of the foremost reasons why this unassuming town became one of New Zealand’s adventure capitals. On this part go-kart, part toboggan, you’ll quickly discover how addictive shooting down hillsides on Skyline Rotorua’s Scenic and Intermediate tracks can be.

Be a human marble

One of the most bizarrely iconic sights of Rotorua seeing people bouncing down a grassy slope inside a giant inflatable ball. Tick this unique experience off your bucket list at ZORB Rotorua and have a go at all four tracks – the Straight Track, the Sidewinder, the Big Air, or the Mega Track, the steepest downhill ball rolling track in the world!

See the granddaddy of geysers at Te Puia

Get a load of Pōhutu Geyser, the largest active geyser in the Southern Hemisphere. This geothermal valley is also a cultural experience, taking you deeper into the history, mythology and traditions of the Māori people. Te Puia also houses six kiwi in its Kiwi Conservation Centre, and you can see master weavers and carvers creating traditional masterpieces at the New Zealand Māori Arts and Crafts Institute. On the Te Puia Light Trail you can experience the sensory adventure of the valley under the night skies.

Your free hot spring in the bush

A favourite spot with Rotorua locals, Kerosene Creek is a beautiful spot to enjoy natural hot springs for free. A short walk through lush native bush will lead you to the stream, waterfall, and small hot pools created by swimmers piling rocks up to separate the pools from the stream. Even the stream itself offers little hot pockets if you’re lucky enough to locate them!

Have an aMAZE-ing day out with the family

Bring the family for some good old-fashioned carnival-style fun at aMAZEme. Find your way through the dead ends and trick pathways of the hedge maze, check out the animals at McGregor’s Garden, and foster some friendly competition with activities like tug o’ war, sack races and giant board games.

Experience a day in the life of a living Māori village

You’ll get to embrace the culture, history and geography of Rotorua at Whakarewarewa: The Living Māori Village, the home and legacy of the Tūhourangi Ngāti Wāhiao people. The tribe have lived here for over 200 years and are still welcoming visitors to share their stories and way of life. You’ll also get the chance to get up close to Rotorua’s famous geothermal activity, and learn about the myths and legends relating to Whakarewarewa’s bubbling mud pools, geysers and hot springs.

Get your adventure on at Skyline Rotorua

Offering some of the best opportunities to experience Rotorua’s adventurous spirit and appreciate its landscape, Skyline Rotorua is your headquarters for must-do activities. Start with a scenic gondola ride up to the main complex, where you can then take your pick of pulse-racing adventures; will it be the luge, zipline, Skyswing, or mountain biking? Finish off your day with a meal and a stunning view at Stratosphere Restaurant & Bar.

See baby kiwi at Rainbow Springs

Meet and learn about a New Zealand icon at this nature park, where you can take a tour of the National Kiwi Hatchery and see conservation in action. If you’re lucky with the timing of your visit, you may even get the chance to see kiwi chicks being weighed or fed.

Meet furry friends at Paradise Valley Springs

Native New Zealand birds, cuddly farm animals and even a pride of lions – this animal park has it all. Check out the lion feeding show at 2.30pm, pat and feed alpacas, horses, sheep and more, drink from a pure freshwater spring, and get up close to nature on the elevated treetops walkway, which takes you up to six metres off the ground among the canopy of large native Tawa trees.

Appreciate a rich culture at Mitai Māori Village

This Maori and island fusion experience tells the story of Tamatekapua’s journey to Aotearoa on the Te Arawa canoe, and brings history to life through traditional songs, dances and games performed by Māori and Pacific Islanders. You’ll also see warriors in traditional dress paddle a waka down the Wai-o-whiro stream and dine on a traditional hāngī.

Visit history at the Buried Village of Te Wairoa

One of the most-visited historical sites in New Zealand, Te Wairoa was once the location of the Pink and White Terraces, the eighth wonder of the world, until Mount Tarawera erupted in 1886, burying the village of Te Wairoa and completely destroying the terraces. Today, you can explore the Museum of Te Wairoa, explore the archeological site and walk the scenic pathways connecting the buried village with the surrounding native bush.

Take a guided tour of Mount Tarawera

Revered by local Māori, the only way to explore this volcano is on a guided tour through Kaitiaki Adventures. You’ll get to soak in the incredible vistas from the mountainside and, if you’re up for it, take an optional run into the heart of the volcanic crater.

Make the most of the scenery at Lake Rotoiti

Whether its on a luxury catamaran cruise, or under your own steam in a kayak or canoe, Lake Rotoiti is a beautiful experience. Be sure to stop in at Manupirua Springs, a stunning hot pool complex only accessible by water or air. If you’re staying on shore, try one of the beautiful walking tracks that take you on a route to appreciate the view: Okere Falls Tracks or Hinehopu/Hongi’s Track.

Plunge over the world’s highest raftable waterfall

Yes, Rotorua is home to the world’s highest commercially raftable waterfall, the seven-metre Tutea Falls on the Kaituna River. Kaituna Cascades will teach you everything you need to know before taking you on an action-packed journey through grade 4 and 5 rapids, including that thrilling drop.

Stunning landscapes to satisfy any appetite for nature, whether you’re setting out on a relaxing lakeside walk, a multi-day hike or bike ride, or simply finding a quiet place to enjoy the view.

Hit the slopes of Aoraki Mount Cook, New Zealand’s highest mountain, or ski the Tasman Glacier, New Zealand’s longest. Get out on Lake Tekapo, or relax in the soothing alpine waters of Tekapo’s hot springs. And don’t miss your opportunity to get in some serious stargazing in this International Dark Sky Reserve.

Experience Lake Tekapo (Takapō)

With its turquoise waters and stunning mountain backdrop, Lake Tekapo is a sight to behold at any time of the year. Enjoy the majesty of this scenic hard-hitter by getting out on the water. Kayaks and paddleboards can be hired from the lake’s shores, or take the jet boat or jet ski out for a side order of adrenaline-pumping action to go along with your scenery. There’s also some excellent trout and salmon fishing in this area if you’re handy with a rod – try your skills from the lake shore or from a boat.

Gaze up at millions of stars

They call it dark, but the sky is alight with stars brighter than you’ve ever seen. The Mackenzie region was officially declared an International Dark Sky Reserve in 2012, which means it’s one of the best places in the world for stargazing due to the lack of light pollution. Stare in wonder at the seemingly endless night sky from any dark spot in the area, or visit the Mt John University Observatory to get a closer look at the universe with a Dark Sky Project stargazing experience.

Ski the Southern Alps

Get on the slopes at any of the Mackenzie district’s four main ski fields to enjoy spectacular scenery and exhilarating snowsport action. Fox Peak Ski Field is your local club field with some great long runs high on the Two Thumb Range, while Mount Dobson and Roundhill both have fantastic facilities for beginners. Ohau Snow Fields offer uncrowded slopes and plenty for skiers and boarders of all levels. If you’re searching for some thrilling off-piste action, check out a heli-skiing experience, where experienced guides take you via helicopter to the purest wilderness skiing you’ll find anywhere.

Take a photo at The Church of the Good Shepherd

This is  one of the most photographed spots in New Zealand, and it’s easy to see why. A picturesque little church with a jaw-dropping backdrop of the shimmering Lake Tekapo and Southern Alps behind, this spot is a postcard come to life. Time it early in the morning or at dusk to catch this historical stone church away from the crowds.

Go a-walking for some wicked views

Walks in the Mackenzie District range from peaceful river tracks to stunning lakeside paths and hardcore mountain climbing. The Hooker Valley Track is a popular three-hour walk, traversing swing bridges and ending at a glacier lake with views of Aoraki Mount Cook and the Southern Alps. The Mueller Hut Route and Mt John Summit Circuit Track are steeper climbs that reward you with panoramic views at the top. For shorter, gentler walks, the Governors Bush Walk, Lake Tekapo Walkway, and Peninsula Walkway are all manageable one-to-two-hour tracks taking in a range of native bush, lake and mountain vistas.

Visit the Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre

Get inspired to knock the bastard off! This tribute to New Zealand’s great explorer (the first in the world to climb Mount Everest) also showcases the history of the Mount Cook region through transport, climbing, and its people. One of the highlights is the custom designed theatre, the only theatre in the world with 2D, 3D and a digital dome planetarium. Recline in your seat and watch the cinematic marvel of Mount Cook Magic, the next best thing to climbing the mountain yourself.

Catch and eat at High Country Salmon

Fresh as a mountain daisy, these salmon come straight out of the glacial water and onto your plate. High Country Salmon is a boutique, family owned salmon farm, and it’s the place to go for mountain salmon raised in a hydro canal system for a clean, delicate flavour. Try it for yourself at the café, which serves a range of mouthwatering glacier-to-plate salmon dishes as well as vegetarian and chicken options. You can also stock up your freezer from the shop, feed the salmon, or catch your own.

Get up close to the Tasman Glacier

In the heart of Aoraki Mount Cook National Park, the Tasman Glacier is the longest in New Zealand, over 600m deep and stretching for 27km. Get up close by air, on foot, by water, or even on skis. Walk from the Blue Lakes Shelter to get a good view of the glacier, or take a guided heli hike to explore on the ice – there are several operators running tours from Mount Cook Airport, and you get a stunning scenic flight into the bargain. On a Glacier Explorers Boat Trip, you’ll cruise through the terminal lake, touch icebergs and learn the history of the glacier and the surrounding national park. And with Ski The Tasman, you’ll travel by helicopter to New Zealand’s two longest ski runs, green-to-blue grade ideal for intermediate skiers.

Find your bliss at Tekapo Springs

Steam all your cares away at this alpine day spa and hot pools complex. The soft alpine water will leave you feeling revitalised and refreshed, and you can level up your self-care with a massage or facial at the spa. In summer, the inflatable obstacle course and 150-metre water slide provide hours of entertainment, and in winter, enjoy some snow action off the mountain with a 150-metre downhill snow tube, and get your skates on at the scenic outdoor ice skating rink.

Wheely good cycling trails

The Mackenzie region is positively crawling with beautiful mountain biking and cycling tracks. The Alps 2 Ocean Cycle Trail is an epic ride showcasing the best of the South Island’s scenery – the whole trail takes four to six days to complete, or you can choose to take in a small section in a single day. The Richmond Trail is for those of you with a bit of mountain biking experience, presenting sweeping views of Lake Tekapo and the Alps on a clear day. Cowans Hill runs alongside the Tekapo River from the township, into native bush, grassland and wetland, and rewards your efforts with stunning views of the lake and mountains.

Have a famous pie at the Fairlie Bakehouse

This bakery is the stuff of legend – a regular appearance on top pie lists and a favourite stop for locals and passers-through. You’ll find all the traditional flavours like beef steak and creamy chicken here, but you’d do well to try a signature flavour, like Pork Belly with Apple Sauce and Crackling, or Bacon and Salmon. For dessert, we recommend the cream buns – a soft, pillowy doughnut filled with the freshest whipped cream – yum.

Walk or drive up to Mt John Observatory and Astro Café

It’s a bit of a thigh-burn to walk from the lake to the top of Mount John – well worth it for the views. And if you’re not into that exercise scene you can drive up the back way. At night the incredible dark sky makes you feel like you’re looking directly into the universe, and the daytime views of Mackenzie Basin, Aoraki Mount Cook and Lake Tekapo are just as breathtaking. Plus, the daytime hours are when you can treat yourself to a Saturn-themed cappuccino and a piece of the famous carrot cake at Astro Café.