The North Island’s balmy and bountiful wine country is all rolling hills and dramatic cliffs, with stunning Art Deco architecture you won’t find anywhere else. We’ve rounded up the best things to do in Hawke’s Bay, starting with the wine and the natural beauty.

Sip and indulge on a wine tour

The bay is world-famous for its wine, particularly its full-bodied reds and superb Chardonnays. Jump on a wine tour – there are several different options available – and hit all the highlights of New Zealand’s oldest and second-largest wine region. Or tour local wineries by bike: On Yer Bike Winery Tours provide all the gear you need for a self-guided tour and can help you map out your route.

Get amongst some massive rainforest scenery on Lake Waikaremoana Track

One of New Zealand’s Great Walks, the Lake Waikaremoana track takes you around the lake’s shores, through lush rainforest and past magnificent waterfalls, mighty rivers and ethereal valleys of mist. The region is the ancestral home of the Ngai Tūhoe tribe and is also the largest area of native forest in the North Island. The walk takes three to four days and you will need to book accommodation in the huts or campsites along the way.

Soak in the views from Te Mata Peak

Leg it up this beautiful and culturally significant peak for some of the best views of the Hawke’s Bay region. From the top you can gaze out over Napier, Māhia Peninsula, the rolling hills to the south and east, and the Ruahine, Kaweka and Maungaharuru ranges. On a clear day you can see Mount Ruapehu in the distance. Explore the wider park for walking and biking tracks, orienteering, and natural marvels such as the hundred-year-old redwoods, limestone caves and marine fossils embedded in the rocky cliffs.

Hit the cycle trails

Rent some wheels and hit the many trails winding through scenic landscapes past wineries and along the coastline. Mountain bikers will find downhill action to get their pulses racing on Te Mata Peak or at Pan Pac Mountain Bike Park, while those looking for a relaxing ride on flatter ground should try Napier’s Puketapu Loop or the Tukituki Trail.

Take in the Art Deco Capital on a walking tour

Back in 1931, a massive earthquake basically razed the town of Napier, and the resulting rebuild in the architectural style of the time led to Napier’s now-iconic status as one of the most complete Art Deco cities in the world. Explore the fascinating and beautiful architecture of this unique city on a guided Art Deco walking tour of Napier’s highlights, or take a self-guided walk with the Art Deco Trust’s brochure or app.

Whisk yourself off to Cape Kidnappers

Towering cliffs, rugged rock formations, sweeping views, and the world’s largest mainland gannet colony. Head to the cape between November and February for your best opportunity to see these thousands of birds at full noise. And if you’re a golfer, Cape Kidnappers will likely already be on your list – the course here is one of the top golf courses in the world, designed by legendary golf architect Tom Doak and famous for its stunning clifftop location.

Visit the penguins at the National Aquarium of New Zealand

Stretching along Napier’s Marine Parade is an exciting world above and below the water. The aquarium showcases a wide range of saltwater, freshwater and land animals including sharks, stingrays, water dragons, and a replica of Napier’s local Pania Reef. Don’t miss the aquarium’s famous Penguin Cove, and check out who’s been named the good and naughty penguin of the month!

Make a splash on the slides

The only water theme park in New Zealand, Splash Planet, is right here in Hastings, boasting all the water slides, inflatable obstacle courses, hot pools and theme park rides off and on the water you could possibly want. You can bring your own picnic or hire a BBQ and make a full day of it – the kids will love you for it! The park is open during the warmer months, from November to March.

Get adventurous with Mohaka Rafting

Take your adventure on the water, white-water rafting through the stunning Mohaka River gorge. You can choose from scenic half-day expeditions on grade 2 rapids, a grade 3 rafting adventure including opportunities to go swimming and cliff jumping, or a thrilling full day trip including grade 4 and 5 rapids. Mohaka Rafting also offers multi-day trips for a rugged experience of the beautiful wilderness.

Bust out the wide-angle lens for the longest place name

Attempt to get yourself and the ten-metre-long sign all in one photo if you can – Taumatawhakatangi­hangakoauauotamatea­turipukakapikimaunga­horonukupokaiwhen­uakitanatahu is the longest place name in the world! It translates to ‘The place where Tamatea, the man with the big knees, who slid, climbed and swallowed mountains, known as “landeater”, played his flute to his loved one.’ The hill itself makes for a lovely scenic backdrop.

Whales, dolphins, seals, crayfish, sea birds – it’s all about the marine wildlife at Kaikōura. This small town punches way above its weight when it comes to sightseeing and nature experiences, including spotting all these amazing animals from a boat, plane, or even with a snorkel and mask.

Get on a whale watching tour

This is what most people are here for: Kaikōura’s famous whale watching. Regular visitors to Kaikōura’s waters include sperm whales, humpbacks and blue whales. Whale Watch Kaikōura is the real deal, with modern catamarans specially designed for viewing these behemoths of the sea. The boats have warm enclosed passenger cabins and large decks perfect for spotting and snapping the magnificent creatures. Whales are so common here that Whale Watch Kaikōura promises a 95% chance of seeing a whale on your journey, and you’ll get an 80% refund if you don’t.

Go seal spotting along the Kaikōura Peninsula Walkway

It’s a beautiful three-hour stroll around Kaikōura’s scenic peninsula, with views of the Kaikōura Ranges and the ocean stretching out to the horizon as well as historic pā and whaling sites. The cherry on top is the local fur seal colony you’ll find lazing on rocks, rolling in the water, and waving their flippers in the air at the end of the peninsula. These ocean doggos might look cuddly, but don’t be tempted to go in for a closer look – these are wild animals and can be territorial on land, so be sure to keep your distance.

Catch yourself the freshest of dinners

These waters are teeming with fish, and Kaikōura literally means ‘crayfish meal’. Get on a fishing charter and start swinging a rod out into the deep for your chance to catch blue and red cod, terakihi and sea perch as well as big game fish further out to sea. Kaikōura Fishing & Scenic Charters will take you out for a full day or half day of fishing, including a stop at some crayfish pots. The experienced team will teach you everything you need to know if you’re new to fishing, and fillet your catch for you ready to take home.

Swim with the dolphins

Get up close with everyone’s favourite ocean mammal on Kaikōura’s Dolphin Encounter, where you can choose to watch curious and often acrobatic dusky dolphins from the boat or get in the water and swim among them! Dolphin Encounter Kaikōura is dedicated to protecting the environment these beautiful creatures live in, and donates a portion of every fare to its Encounter Foundation.

See the Southern Hemisphere’s largest sea bird

Fizz up, twitchers – this is one of the best places in the world to see the magnificent royal albatross and a whole lot of other sea birds. Get on an excursion with Albatross Encounter Kaikōura and take a short boat ride out from the beautiful Kaikōura coast. You’ll soon be surrounded by birds, including several breeds of albatross, terns, shags, petrels, shearwaters, and sometimes even skua and blue penguins. The knowledgeable crew and on-board identification guides will help you learn about the birds you see on your trip.

Step back in time at Fyffe House

This charming pink seaside cottage is Kaikōura’s oldest building, the last remaining part of an 1842 whaling station. It’s now a tribute to the life people led here in the days of Kaikōura’s early settlement, with artefacts, dioramas and character furniture true to the time on display. You can also see the whale bones that form the building’s unusual foundations from the garden, which is also a great place to take in the fabulous ocean and mountain views.

Eat fresh-caught crayfish at Nins Bin

You’d be remiss not to partake in some of the beautiful kai moana on offer in Kaikōura, and one of the best places to do so is an unassuming caravan parked up right beside the ocean. Nins Bin is a favourite with locals and visitors, serving mouthwatering crayfish caught fresh and sustainably every day. In season you can also order the local delicacies of mussels and whitebait fritters, and the classic fish and chips is always a good option.

Peace among the purple

Tranquillity at its finest is on offer at Lavendyl Lavender Farm, where you can walk through waist-high fields of sweet-smelling lavender, stroll the scenic gardens with views from Mt Fyffe to the Kaikōura peninsula, and enjoy high tea or a hot drink in the tearoom. Between January and February, you can also watch the distilling process for extracting the lavender oil.

Eat local at Kaikōura farmers market

Get the true community feel at this weekend market, running fortnightly on Sunday mornings from November to April. Browse the stalls for fresh local food, produce and artisan creations, fish, ceramics and more while rubbing shoulders with friendly locals there to do their shopping.

Take the scenic train along the coast

Ride to Kaikōura in style on one of New Zealand’s beautiful long-distance train journeys – the Coastal Pacific train from either Christchurch or Picton. Enjoy the spectacular mountain, ocean and forest landscape from the scenic carriages or open-air viewing while you indulge in some local food and wine – no stopping for gas or back seat driving required!

Go whale watching in the sky

Take whale watching to new heights with a Wings Over Whales flight, offering a chance to appreciate the full scope of Kaikōura’s beauty and marine wildlife from above. Whale watching flights take from 30 to 45 minutes and provide the unforgettable opportunity to see giant sperm whales from tip to tail, as well as humpback whales, blue whales, dolphins, orca and seals. Also available are scenic flights showcasing unobstructed views of the Kaikōura Ranges and peninsula out to the Pacific Ocean.

Kayak among the seals

See New Zealand fur seals at their most graceful as they play in their natural habitat. Both Kaikōura Kayaks and Seal Kayak Kaikōura offer a 100% guarantee of seal sightings on your kayaking tour, so you can enjoy getting up close with photo opportunities abound as the seals weave and dive around your kayak!

Take yourself for a ride

An excellent way to make the most of the majestic Kaikōura landscape is by mountain bike. Explore from rugged coast to mountain range on a variety of tracks that cater to everyone from the family group to the adventure seeker. Information on cycle trails can be found from the Kaikōura i-Site, or on the Kaikōura cycling club website.

Test your skills at Emporium mini golf and escape rooms

For some quality dry-land entertainment, rock up to Emporium Brewery to try excellent local beers and brush up on your putting at the 18-hole mini golf course. Try your hand at one of Emporium’s escape rooms, where you’re challenged to find clues and solve puzzles to complete your assigned mission.

Walk the Kaikōura Coast Track

This is a walk of luxury – a two-day private hike where you can have your gear transported to your accommodation, and eat catered meals. It’s an uncrowded and exclusive exploration of lesser-known areas of Kaikōura’s stunning coastline, through farmland and gullies of native bush.

Get some local history on board at the Kaikōura Museum

The distinctive ‘Craypot’ building at the west end of Kaikōura houses impressive collections and exhibitions delving into the fascinating history of the region, from its fishing and whaling origins, early Māori and European settlement to its natural history and diverse wildlife. Check out some of the region’s unique stories here, such as the ghost of the two-roomed jail and Kaikōura’s own UFO sighting.

Go walking with llamas

Yep, your next walking buddy can be a llama who carries your supplies while you explore Kaikōura. Team up with Kaikoura Llama Trekking and take a tour of the area’s highlights including Fyffe House and the Kaikōura peninsula seal colony. Your guides will take time to introduce and familiarise you with the llamas, so you might just find you’ve made a woolly friend by the end of it.

Swim with the seals

A unique and totally unforgettable experience, Seal Swim Kaikōura gives you the chance to marvel at these playful and curious animals in their own environment. Listed as one of the world’s top marine encounters by Lonely Planet, the tours are licensed by New Zealand’s Department of Conservation and do not disturb the natural behaviour of the seals, rather offering you the opportunity to observe them up close on this intimate and enchanting snorkelling adventure.

The South Island is bursting with adventure activities to give you that heart-pounding rush of excitement. It’s the birthplace of jet boating and commercial bungy jumping; a 15 million-hectare adventure playground with more outdoor action than any adrenaline junkie could cram in one lifetime.

From the air

The South Island does a great line in jaw-dropping scenery on the grandest of scales, and there’s no better way to appreciate the full scope of it than free-falling from the sky. Head out on an unforgettable flight-seeing adventure in epic locations such as Queenstown, Fiordland or the West Coast, and for the ultimate adrenaline rush, combine your scenic flight with a rip-roaring skydiving experience.

Jet boating

You can’t take on a fast-flowing, shallow braided river in a conventional boat. Introducing: jet boats. Pretty much what it says on the box: a boat with jet propulsion, perfect for farmers and explorers navigating our rivers. As a bonus, they’re also wildly fun. Take a quick commercial ride for some wicked spins and thrills, or embark on a jet boat safari to explore parts of the back country virtually inaccessible any other way.

White-water rafting

Test your mettle in the raging rapids of some of our most famous rivers with a rubber dinghy and a team of fellow adventure seekers. You’ll find some of the best white water in Queenstown’s Shotover River and in the Buller Gorge on the West Coast.

Bungy jumping

Take a dive with a big rubber band around your ankles. Queenstown’s Kawarau Bridge is where it all started in 1988, and you can still jump there to this day. There are more jumps to try around Queenstown, as well as a bridge bungy at Hanmer Springs.

Mountain biking

Bring your bike on any South Island trip and you’re guaranteed to get a chance to use it. You’ll find awesome trails everywhere you go, from urban adventure parks and easy coastal rides to wind-whistling downhill action in the mountains. If you didn’t bring your own wheels, you can easily find rentals in most towns.

Off-roading

Explore the backcountry under engine power on a guided 4WD expedition, with both quad bike and 4WD truck tours available in Wānaka, Mount Cook National Park, Canterbury, the West Coast and more. It’s a great way to get off the beaten track for scenery you’d never snap from the roadside.

Sea kayaking

Venture out on the water to explore the South Island’s diverse coastal landscape, and you’ll very likely encounter wildlife such as seals, penguins and dolphins along the way. Top kayaking spots include Abel Tasman National Park, Kaikōura, Banks Peninsula and Fiordland.

Heli-skiing

The phenomenal mountainous spine of the South Island attracts thousands of skiers and snowboarders every season, and for the advanced ripper looking for some serious off-piste action, a heli-skiing experience provides the opportunity to tap some of the best untracked powder and backcountry terrain the mountains have to offer.

Te Waipounamu’s thriving arts communities, Māori cultural experiences and colonial architecture form a rich tapestry. Dip your toe in some local heritage wherever you are, or dive into a cultural road trip and explore all the parts that make Aotearoa truly unique.

Architecture

Christchurch, Dunedin and Oamaru each have their own distinct, beautiful ,and historically significant architecture. Oamaru’s Victorian precinct is the most complete streetscape of Victorian heritage buildings in the country, many of them made from the distinctive Oamaru stone. Dunedin is known as the Edinburg of the South, with Edwardian, Victorian and gothic architecture combining to make it one of the most significant architectural cities in the Southern Hemisphere. Christchurch’s historic buildings tell the story of early European settlers, and a newer story of survival and recovery since massive earthquakes rocked the city in 2010 and 2011.

Historic homes

Dunedin’s Larnach Castle and Olveston Historic Home have both been beautifully and sympathetically restored and are open to the public for a fee. Put on your best lordly gait to walk the halls of New Zealand’s only castle, or tour Olveston House and picture the life of the Theomin family who lived in it from 1906 to 1966. In Kaikōura, you can visit the picturesque pink Fyffe House, the oldest surviving building in the area, once part of a pioneer whaling station.

Māori heritage

All pounamu – New Zealand jade or greenstone – comes from the South Island, hence the island’s te reo Māori name Te Waipounamu which means ‘the waters of greenstone’. The West Coast is the richest source of pounamu, a taonga or sacred treasure in Māori culture. There are several places on the West Coast to see a master carver at work creating beautiful pounamu, and you can even take workshops to carve one yourself. Those looking for a cultural experience in Christchurch can float down the Ōtākaro Avon River on a traditional waka (canoe) with Waka on Avon, or visit Ko Tāne for performance, history and kai (food) all wrapped in one visit.

Pioneering past

Delve into the history of New Zealand’s pioneering era on the West Coast, starting with Shantytown in Greymouth, a replica village that gives visitors an in-depth glimpse into life as an early European pioneer. You can also pan for gold and try to strike it lucky at Goldfields Mining Centre in Otago, a historic reserve where gold was mined for over 100 years.

Street art

Christchurch underwent an incredible street art renaissance after the earthquakes, and the movement is still flourishing, putting Ōtautahi on the map as one of the world’s great street art destinations. Take a walking tour to discover some of the most significant works and learn the stories behind them, or just see how many you can spot while you’re out and about in the central city. Dunedin is also billed as a street art centre, featuring modern works by local talent and world-famous artists hidden in between historic buildings.

Museums

You’ll find truly world-class museum collections up and down the South Island, in the main cities and also in smaller towns. Canterbury Museum houses internationally significant displays on Antarctica, natural history and Māori and European settlement, and Otago Museum’s Tūhura Science Centre and Perpetual Guardian Planetarium will delight the kids. The South Canterbury Museum in Timaru has a great collection of Edwardian fashion and a replica of Richard Pearse’s first aircraft. And if it’s aircraft you’re interested in, the Croydon Aviation Heritage Centre in Southland has the largest collection of de Havilland aircraft in the Southern Hemisphere.

Art galleries

Modern art, historical paintings and contemporary studios featuring droves of talent are all on display in the South Island’s art galleries. Christchurch is home to several, including the Christchurch Art Gallery, the Centre of Contemporary Art (CoCa), The Central, and Fiksate Studio & Gallery. Timaru’s Aigantighe Art Gallery is the third-largest in New Zealand, with a formidable collection of national and international art, and Nelson is known for its humming art scene, with The Suter Art Gallery and many local artist studios making this an essential stop on any art trail.

Pro theatre

Christchurch is home to New Zealand’s biggest producing theatre, The Court Theatre. All productions are created in-house start to finish, featuring internationally acclaimed actors alongside local rising talent. Pro theatre lovers should also check out Little Andromeda and Lyttelton Arts Factory in Christchurch, and Fortune Theatre in Dunedin. Not to mention the plethora of excellent community theatres all around the South Island!

This is the land of towering mountains, golden beaches, lush rainforest and vast, volcanic plateau – and you can walk it all! Explore the best of the North Island’s magnificent scenery on foot, with walks up and down Te Ika-a-Māui ranging from short day hikes to multi-day expeditions and Great Walks of New Zealand.

Kauaeranga Kauri Trail (Pinnacles Walk)

Wander groves of shady nikau palms and radiant rata trees to the Pinnacles at the heart of the Coromandel Peninsula. A popular walk you can complete in one day or with an overnight stop at Pinnacles Hut, the trail follows a historic packhorse route used by kauri bushmen in the 1920s. The climb up the Pinnacles rewards you with spectacular views over the ocean, the Bay of Islands and the Bay of Plenty.

The Tongariro Crossing/Northern Circuit

Widely considered to be one of Aotearoa’s (if not the world’s) best one-day walks, taking you past the famous emerald lakes and right up to Mount Ngāuruhoe, the real-life Mount Doom. If you’re hankering for more, book yourself some huts and complete the three-to-four-day Tongariro Northern Circuit, one of New Zealand’s Great Walks.

Te Mata Peak

A steep climb to 360-degree views of Hawke’s Bay, including Napier, Mahia Peninsula, the Maungaharuru ranges and even Mount Ruapehu when the weather’s on your side. Māori legend says that Te Mata peak depicts the fallen form of a chief who died attempting a series of tasks to win his rival’s daughter’s love.

Pouakai Crossing

A one-day power-hike across a varied landscape of alpine wetland, bush and the lower slopes of Mount Taranaki with up-close views of this iconically Aotearoa mountain. This is the shorter version of the popular two-to-three-day Pouakai Circuit.

Mount Karioi Track

This track is a steady three-hour climb through birdsong-filled bush up an ancient volcano, with massvie views of Raglan Harbour, Pureora, the Herangi Range, and on a clear day, Mount Taranaki. For a less steep option, the Wairake Track is a shorter route cutting across private farmland, although it doesn’t have the same views.

Lake Waikaremoana Track

One of the North Island’s two Great Walks, this tramp takes three to four days and is a true backcountry experience. Highlights include the staggering views from Panekire Bluff (try to keep your balance though!), the spectacular Korokoro Falls, and an ancient mountain range with cultural and spiritual significance to the Tūhoe people. Accommodation in huts or campsites must be booked in advance.

Urupukapuka Island Archeological Walk

Enjoy the tranquil coastal surrounds and take in beautiful views of the Bay of Islands while learning about the fascinating pre-European history of Urupukapuka Island on this five-hour loop walk. Access to the island is only available via ferry or water taxi.

Rangitoto Summit Track

Catch the ferry from downtown Auckland to visit the prominent cone of Rangitoto and embark on this popular two-hour walk. The track takes you through lava fields and the largest pōhutukawa forest in the world, and rewards you with incredible panoramic views of Auckland City and the Hauraki Gulf.

Coromandel Coastal Walkway

One of the best coastal walks in New Zealand, and it’s a pretty easy trek, traversing the remote northern end of the Coromandel Peninsula. Taking approximately three hours one way, the walk showcases Coromandel scenery at its best, from periwinkle bays to golden beaches and idyllic farmland.

Red Rocks Reserve

A short walk from Wellington’s Ōwhiro Bay takes you to the fur seal colony at Red Rocks (Pari-whero). Māori folklore says the distinctive red rocks were stained that way by the blood of a famous Polynesian explorer. Whether or not you believe that, this spot on Wellington’s rugged south coast is a cultural, geographical and ecological marvel.

Tora Coastal Walk

Hardcore hiking not your thing? Enjoy views of green Wairarapa farmland, native bush, river valleys and coastline on this glamping trip while someone else transports your gear. The three-day private walk is light as a feather, the breakfasts and dinners are provided, and you’ll be staying in delightful boutique accommodation.

Lush rainforests harbour a wide variety of native animals, and the warmer waters around the North Island’s coast are home to some of the world’s best sea life. Nature lovers need only walk off the side of the road in many places around Te Ika-a-Māui to find world-class natural experiences.

Poor Knights Island Marine Reserve

Dive, snorkel, or simply hold your breath to check out the many underwater marvels here, from huge sea caves to thick kelp forests and countless species of fish, sea sponges, shellfish, urchins and anenomes. World-renowned diver Jacques Cousteau considered this gloriously scenic marine reserve one of the top ten dive sites in the world, with its geological features and crystal-clear waters creating a rich and fascinating marine environment.

Swim with dolphins in the Bay of Plenty

The balmy waters of the Bay of Plenty are home to dolphins a-plenty. It’s one of the best places in the North Island to see and swim with dolphins, and Orca Wild Adventures can take you on a full day adventure where you have a 99% chance of seeing dolphins and an 80% chance of getting in the water with them, depending on the conditions. Your trip includes a stop to explore and snorkel around one of the bay’s beautiful isolated islands.

Gannet colonies at Cape Kidnappers and Muriwai Beach

Two of New Zealand’s three resident gannet colonies are in the North Island, one at Cape Kidnappers and one at Muriwai Beach just outside of Auckland. The colony at Cape Kidnappers is one of the largest in the world, and while the Muriwai colony is smaller, it’s easily accessible, meaning you can get close enough to hear the birds arguing, see them feeding their chicks, and watch them swooping and diving for fish.

Up-close bird encounters at ZEALANDIA ecosanctuary

This full-on nature experience is a forest smack in the middle of Wellington. ZELANDIA is a unique, fully fenced urban ecosanctuary, where you can encounter with New Zealand’s native wildlife up close. Living wild within 225 hectares of regenerating native bush are over 40 species of birds including kākā, takahē, karearea and kiwi, as well as other rare native animals such as tuatara. Take a night tour for your best chance at spotting a kiwi.

Titiri Matangi, island wildlife reserve

A walk on this island – just an hour’s ferry ride from downtown Auckland – can bring you in close proximity with kokako, tīeke, takahē, giant weta, tuatara, ruru, hihi, and kiwi. Titiri Matangi is a protected island sanctuary home to an incredible range of New Zealand’s wildlife that aren’t easily seen anywhere else in the Auckland region. Some of the species here arrived on their own, others relocated from places like Little Barrier Island.

Undersea encounters at Goat Island Marine Reserve

Bring your snorkel to enjoy a good long session of underwater wildlife spotting at this marine reserve, where the clear, warm water and rocky island shores provide an excellent observation spot. Goat Island, or Okakari Point Marine Reserve, was the first marine reserve in New Zealand and is teeming with all sorts of life, from crayfish and manta rays to sea sponges and many species of fish.

Glow-worms in a cave near you

These little wrigglers light up cave roofs and riverbanks like starry skies at night. You can spot them all over the show if you know where to look, but for a guaranteed spectacle you should take a tour with the pros. Waitomo Caves is the most famous glow-worm haunt, and some others well worth visiting include Lake McLaren in Tauranga, Kawiti Caves in Northland, Lake Karapiro in the Waikato, and for a cost-free and totally uncrowded encounter, try Northland’s Waipu Caves.

Te Waipounamu, New Zealand’s biggest island, is packed with dramatic landscapes, rugged wilderness, and adventure ranging from the sea to the mountains, caves to the skies. You’ll also find towns and cities rocking speciality foods and drinks unlike anything else, like world-famous Sauvignon Blanc and seafood.

See whales in their element at Kaikōura

Seeing a massive whale in the wild is living the dream, and Kaikōura is one of the best places in the world to do it. Whale Watch Kaikōura guarantees you’ll sight these behemoths on its tours. Make it a compulsory stop – seeing these incredible creatures spouting, fluking, or gliding along beneath the surface is an experience you’ll never forget.

Get inverted at the world’s first bungy jump site in Queenstown

It’s the home of bungy jumping, and the very first commercial bungy site at Kawarau Bridge is still going strong. Dip your hands in the water before you spring back up again and know you’re leaping in the footsteps of many great adventurers before you.

Swim with dolphins at Akaroa

We’re claiming the cutest dolphin in the world: Hector’s dolphins are the world’s smallest and rarest, and they like to hang out in the waters in and around Akaroa Harbour, which shows they have good taste. This picturesque little Banks Peninsula town is famous for being New Zealand’s only French settlement, and you can see the dolphins up close on a Black Cat or Akaroa Dolphins Cruise, or even get in the water to join them.

Do a Great Walk

The South Island is home to six of New Zealand’s ten Great Walks, so tick one of these multi-day hiking experiences off your bucket list and treat your eyeballs to some of the most jaw-dropping scenery you’re ever likely to see. Lace up your tramping boots and prepare yourself for the experience of a lifetime on any of Te Waipounamu’s Great Walks: the Abel Tasman Coast Track, Paparoa Track, Heaphy Track, Routeburn Track, Kepler Track, and possibly the most well-known of them all, the Milford Track.

Go cruising in Fiordland

You know when a place is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site that it’s going to be pretty damn majestic, and Fiordland proves that theory ten times over. Kick back on deck and watch some of the world’s most magnificent scenery glide by on a scenic cruise, ranging from single-day outings to multi-day cruises exploring Doubtful Sound, Milford Sound, and all the more isolated fiords.

Go stargazing in Mackenzie Country

Mackenzie District is officially one of the best places on the planet for stargazing, protected from light pollution to preserve the night-time environment. Stare in wonder at the seemingly endless night sky from any dark spot in the International Dark Sky Reserve, or visit the University of Canterbury Mount John Observatory to get a closer look at the universe with a Dark Sky Project stargazing experience.

Go skiing

Satisfy your appetite for long, groomed runs, fresh powder, off-piste adventure and everything in between. Some of the best skiing in the country can be found right here, with more than 20 fields spanning from Nelson to Wānaka and Queenstown. Head to a club field for friendly vibes and uncrowded slopes, or take advantage of the amenities and user-friendly lifts at popular commercial fields like Mount Hutt, Cardrona, or Coronet Peak.

Visit Lake Tekapo and the Church of the Good Shepherd

The icy blue waters of Lake Tekapo (Takapō) and the stunning mountain backdrop are one of the South Island’s scenic must-sees, especially from one particular spot near the lake’s shore – the historic stone Church of the Good Shepherd and nearby border collie statue are crying out for you to flex your photographic muscles.

Find the iconic Wānaka tree

This beautiful and ethereal sight is one of the most famous in New Zealand, popular with budding and professional photographers alike. The bowed bough seems to grow right out of the waters of Lake Wānaka, and with the Southern Alps behind, it makes for an incredible vista. Get to it from the Waterfall Creek Track car park.

Walk on Franz Josef or Fox Glacier

There are only three places in the world where you can walk on an actual glacier without some sort of mountaineering experience, and two of them are right here on the West Coast. Take a guided heli hike to get a scenic flight over glaciers and rainforest before heading down to explore the fascinating landscape of blue-white ice.

Visit New Zealand’s only castle

Feel like a true lord or lady of the manor as you explore the grounds and walk the halls of Larnach Castle and Gardens, only 20 minutes from central Dunedin on the Otago Peninsula. The beautiful gardens are recognised as a Garden of International Significance, and you can immerse yourself in the full castle experience inside with an elegant high tea, guided tour, or even staying overnight.

See the sea get blown sky-high at Pancake Rocks

The unique limestone ridges creating the pancake-like stacks of Punakaiki’s Pancake Rocks were formed over 30 million years of erosion and water pressure. Take a 20-minute loop walk around the rocks to take in stunning views up and down the coast, and if the tide is right, you’ll get to see the surging sea explode up through rocky blowholes.

Go wine tasting in Marlborough

The home of New Zealand’s most famous wines, many of which have won awards and feature in top restaurants the world over. The largest wine-making region in New Zealand is simply overflowing with beautiful, world-class wineries. Hiring a bike or joining a winery cycle tour is a great way to get from vineyard to vineyard, most of which are conveniently close together. The Golden Mile is a trail that’s done the planning for you, encompassing nine wineries over six kilometres.

Kayak the Marlborough Sounds

From water level, you can see seals, penguins, stingrays and other local wildlife of the Sounds. Explore the secluded corners and hidden beaches at a leisurely paddling pace in a ‘yak. Take a guided tour to ensure you visit all the best spots, or go self-guided if you’re an independent kayak who don’t need no guide.

Hunt down street art in Christchurch

Creative energy and a lot of exposed walls to choose from turned Christchurch into a street art hotspot after the 2011 earthquakes, and the scene has only continued to grow since then. Explore the central city to see the mind-boggling murals that inspired Lonely Planet to name Christchurch as a global street art capital in 2017.

Feast on Bluff Oysters

Famous around the world, the unique Bluff Oyster is a local delicacy that people flock from all over to get their hands on. They’re arguably best eaten fresh and raw, but the Bluff locals know how to put a delicious spin on them no matter how they’re served, whether it’s battered, served Kilpatrick, or in a seafood chowder.

Go white-water rafting in Murchison

This unassuming Tasman town is known as the white-water capital of New Zealand, with incredible rafting action to be had down the mighty Buller Gorge. The fast-flowing rivers of this area make for some of the best rapids and biggest white water you’ll ever experience.

Rest and relax at Hanmer Springs

Ever sat in a hot tub while it snows? Treat yourself to some soul-rejuvenating bliss at this well-known thermal resort, whether it’s in the yummy mineral waters of pools ranging from 34 to 42 degrees, or at the day spa with a massage, facial or body treatment. There are also cold pools and hydroslides to splash about in during the summer months and give the younger ones hours of entertainment.

Walk or bike in the Port Hills

Christchurch’s Port Hills are home to phenomenal walking and biking tracks, as well as some of the best views in the city. Christchurch Adventure Park boasts an awesome network of mountain biking trails, with lessons and gear hire available so all you need is an adventurous spirit. The park is also home to zipline tours and an excellent café with a large heated deck to enjoy the forest views. Godley Head is a popular walking track with stunning ocean views, while the Bridle Path is a steep track climbing over the hill to Lyttelton.

Visit the Moeraki Boulders

These famous and curiously spherical giant boulders are scattered along a beach about 30 minutes’ drive from Oamaru. According to Māori legend, the boulders are gourds, washed ashore after a great voyaging canoe was wrecked upon landfall, while scientists say the boulders are calcite concretions formed 65 million years ago. Pick your favourite version of the story as you wander among the boulders, some of which are up to two metres high.

Check out the world’s steampunk capital in Oamaru

There you are, taking a genteel wander along the historic streets of Oamaru, when you suddenly come face to face with… is it a train? Is it a fire-spitting drill-slash-rocket-ship? Well, actually, it’s steampunk, and don’t stop there because you’re now at the entrance to Steampunk HQ. This crazy futuristic steam train contraption is just the beginning; once you’re done goggling (and trust us, goggles wouldn’t look out of place here), head inside the museum, which celebrates a Victorian genre of sci-fi in which the future is steam-powered. Oamaru has whole-heartedly embraced this sub-culture, and if playing an out-there tune on the Metagalactic Pipe Organ and checking out all manner of contraptions, skeletal sculptures, robotic creatures and transportation worthy of Ghost Rider doesn’t satisfy you, you’ll definitely want to be in Oamaru for the annual Steampunk Festival in June.

Go penguin spotting in Dunedin

How freaking cute are penguins? Very cute. The world’s smallest penguin, AKA, the cutest of all the penguins can be found right here on the Otago Peninsula. The Royal Albatross Centre’s Blue Penguin Viewing Tours are probably one of the best you’ll find anywhere, with a specially designed viewing platform ideally situated at Pilot’s Beach to see the little guys waddling home for the night. You’ve got knowledgeable guides to give you the lowdown on everything penguins, you’ve got an interactive walkway leading down to the viewing platform, and you’ve got a portion of your ticket price going back into the wildlife reserve. Overall, we call that a wing – we mean, win.

Explore Christchurch from the river

The Ōtākaro Avon River presents many opportunities to explore Christchurch. It runs through the heart of Christchurch’s city centre, culturally and historically significant to Māori and long attracting people to its banks for relaxation, gathering, and play. There are several operators offering kayak tours, paddle board tours, punting, and even waka tours, and all provide a unique insight into the history and culture of Christchurch.

Take the TranzAlpine train journey

Settle in for a spectacular five-hour ride through some of the South Island’s most breathtaking scenery. The TranzAlpine train from Christchurch to Greymouth is widely known as one of the world’s greatest train journeys. Board at the Christchurch Railway Station in Addington and chug past such scenic winners as the Waimakariri River, Arthur’s Pass National Park, Lake Brunner, and the Southern Alps.

Explore the Catlins

The perfect place to really lose yourself in untamed, raw natural beauty. 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 200 metres. Whatever they might say down in Bluff, Slope Point is actually the southernmost point of the South Island, and it’s also the location of the iconic yellow sign showing the distance to the North and South Poles, which you know you want to snap a picture of. One of the most popular spots in the Catlins is the lighthouse at Nugget Point, and Curio Bay’s double-feature of a Jurassic-era fossilised forest and yellow-eyed penguins is a nature showcase you’ll definitely want to include on your programme. The Catlins hogs some of the prettiest waterfalls around, so if you’re into that sort of thing, get yourself and your camera to Koropuku Falls, Purakaunui Falls, and McLean Falls.

Go sea fishing

It’s hard to beat the fishing action in Kaikōura, famous for its abundant marine wildlife and literally named after the resident crayfish. Spend a rewarding half or full day out on a boat with Kaikōura Fishing & Scenic Charters and enjoy Kaikōura’s beautiful backdrop as you learn how to lift crayfish pots before casting out for species like blue and red cod, terakihi and sea perch. Close to Marlborough, D’Urville Island is perfectly positioned next to productive fishing grounds, and in Bluff, you can take advantage of the local expertise on a charter out to Foveaux Strait.

Drive from Wānaka to the West Coast

One of the country’s best scenic drives, this part of State Highway 6 was previously a traditional pathway for Māori travelling west to search for pounamu, and passes such gorgeous sights as Lake Hawea, Lake Wānaka, the Makarora Blue Pools, the gates of Haast, and Thunder Creek Falls.

See the Blue Pools

No filters needed– the colour of the water at this particular spot on the Makarora River has to be seen to be believed. Take an easy walk through native forest, cross the swing bridge and follow the boardwalk to a viewing platform where you can gaze down and photograph these astonishingly clear, vibrantly turquoise pools.

Jet boat the Dart River

Blow away every last cobweb with a thrilling ride up the beautiful Dart River into the heart of Mount Aspiring National Park. Dart River Adventures is the only operator to take you into the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Te Wāhipounamu, and you’ll get to explore the braided rivers and stunning scenery while getting to learn a bit about the history and Māori legends of the area. For the best of both worlds, combine your jet boat adventure with a Funyak tour, so you get to race upstream at wind-whistling speed and float leisurely downstream on inflatable Funyaks.

Swim with dolphins in Kaikōura

Move over Aquaman – you’re going to be the new dolphin whisperer. In Kaikōura, AKA the marine wildlife capital of New Zealand, you can get up close to everyone’s favourite ocean mammal with Dolphin Encounter Kaikōura. Enjoy a scenic boat ride out along the beautiful coastline and choose to watch curious and playful dusky dolphins from the boat, or get in the water and swim among them.

Take a Haast River Safari

The West Coast’s rainforest-draped cliffs, rushing rivers and lush valleys are those rare kind of landscapes that look incredible no matter the weather, so you shouldn’t let a rainy day dampen your enthusiasm for adventure (especially since the West Coast sees rather a lot of rainy days!). Haast River Safari’s jet boats are fully enclosed, so you stay warm and dry while zooming up the Haast Valley, a stunning sight whether shrouded in mist or under clear blue skies.

Feast your eyes on Abel Tasman National Park

Golden sands: check. Sparkling sky-blue water: check. Emerald forests: present and accounted for. Abel Tasman National Park is a visual treat from any angle, and with options to explore on foot or from the water, your options are unlimited. The Abel Tasman Coast Track has earned a spot on New Zealand’s list of Great Walks for its incredible scenery and diverse terrain, and you can choose to take in parts of the trail in bite-sized chunks if you’re not up for the full three- to five-day hike. Take a guided kayak tour or set out independently to discover some gorgeous secluded beaches, sculpted granite headlands and isolated islands.

Fish the South Island’s rivers

Don’t spare the rod – some of the top fishing rivers in the world are right here in the South Island. Gore is known as the Brown Trout Capital of the World, and the Mataura River boasts nearly 150km of accessible fly-fishing waters. In Otago you can challenge your skills on the fast-flowing Clutha River, while Canterbury’s Rakaia River is so well-known for its salmon fishing that the town welcomes visitors with a giant salmon statue.

Admire the Hokitika Gorge

Catch glimpses of bright turquoise water through the forest of rimu and podocarp in the Hokitika Scenic Reserve, and admire the full visual impact of the gorge from the viewing platform. Just a short walk from the car park, this is a hidden gem absolutely worth taking a little detour to see.

See the sights of Aoraki Mount Cook National Park

Ever wanted to ski on a glacier? In the heart of Aoraki Mount Cook National Park, the Tasman Glacier is here to make your dreams come true. This is home to the two longest ski runs in the country, and you can carve lines down them both with Ski The Tasman, or take a guided heli hike to enjoy a scenic flight before disembarking to explore on foot. On a Glacier Explorers Boat Trip, you’ll cruise through the terminal lake and even get to touch icebergs. Brush up on your knowledge of New Zealand’s great explorer at The Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre, where you can also watch some awesome helicopter footage of Mount Cook in the digital dome planetarium. As far as walks go, the Hooker Valley Track is a sure-fire hit: three hours of neat paths and stunning views leading you to Lake Tasman and its mighty mountain backdrop.

Go wildlife spotting on Otago Peninsula

Get to see the mighty albatross on land at Taiaroa Head, home to the world’s only mainland breeding colony of these awe-inspiring seafarers. The Otago Peninsula brings the goods when it comes to stunning coastal views and rare native wildlife; nearby Sandfly Bay is home to seals, sea lions and even yellow-eyed penguins – just be sure to keep a safe distance.

Explore Middle-earth

If you’ve been living under a rock, or possibly in a hobbit hole, there’s a chance you could have missed the memo that New Zealand is the real-life Middle-earth, but if you were aware of a couple of little trilogies called The Lord of The Rings and The Hobbit, you’ll be familiar with the magical locations that featured in the films. You can even see the place where the One Ring was really created at Jens Hansen in Nelson – thankfully a bit more accessible than the fires of Mount Doom – and you can even purchase your own replica of the famous ring. In Canterbury, the sheer-sided Mount Sunday near Ashburton was the set for Edoras, and from the Southern Lakes village of Glenorchy you can discover the Elven realm of Lothlorien. In the Cardrona Valley, take a drive up to the summit of the Crown Range to see spectacular views of Middle-earth itself, including the River Anduin (Waiau River), the Pillars of Argonath (Kawarau Gorge), and Dimrill Dale (Mount Owen and Mount Olympus). The forest on either side of Takaro Road near Te Anau was the location for Fangorn Forest, where cameras were strung from high wires to film the hobbits making their way through the trees. Marlborough’s Pelorus River was the location for the famous barrel scene in The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug.

Wet your whistle on the Tasman Great Taste Trail

In the words of Freddie Mercury, get on your bikes and ride to make the most of the Nelson Tasman region’s scenery, attractions, and gastronomic delights. The Tasman Great Taste Trail is an easy grade ride, taking in some spectacular coastal, river and mountain views and stopping off at some of Nelson’s best foodie destinations, from fruit stalls and cafés to craft beer pubs, restaurants, and wineries. The craft brewing scene here is generally considered to be one of the best in the country, so take to two wheels and try some of the local beer and cider for yourself.

See the famous mirror images in Lake Matheson

This is the very definition of picture-perfect: Lake Matheson’s jetty viewpoint is well-known for its superb reflections of Aoraki Mount Cook and Mount Tasman. The organic matter from the surrounding forest gives this glacial lake its dark brown colour, making it a photographer’s dream for those mirror images, especially at dawn and dusk. The walk is an easy, wheelchair-accessible 40-minute round trip, or you can choose to continue on around the Lake Circuit for an hour and a half’s scenic walk.

Ride the Queenstown Trail

Sublime scenery is the order of the day (or up to three days), on this mountain bike trail network linking popular South Island destinations Queenstown, Arrowtown and Gibbston. Professional tour operators offer outings that range from cruisy lakeside rides and winery tours to cross-country mountain biking adventures.

Walk the length of Wharariki Beach

This dramatic, expansive coastline is a stunning highlight of Golden Bay and also (please hold all applause to the end) of the Windows 10 screensaver. Two towering archway islands are the crowning feature of this sweeping, rugged beach, and the backdrop of sculpted cliffs and towering sand dunes is no slouch, either. It’s not safe to swim here, but you can walk the length of the beach (look for seals hanging out in the rock pools) or explore on horseback with Cape Farewell Horse Treks.

Take a scenic drive though Arthur’s Pass

This scenic road climbs to more than 900m and is punctuated with engineering marvels including viaducts, bridges, and waterfalls redirected into chutes. Besides the man-made wonders, the natural vistas on this route are nothing less than spectacular, and we suggest you take a driving buddy so you can take turns gazing open-mouthed at the rolling plains, sweeping valleys, plunging river gorges, lush rainforest and rugged mountains.

See Mars on Earth at the Omarama Clay Cliffs

It’s the freakiest show! These stark natural rock formations were formed by layers of silt and gravel deposited by rivers and lakes more than a million years ago. The tall, sharp pinnacles are separated by narrow ravines and look positively otherworldly, like the outside-the-space-station bit in The Martian. The cliffs are located on private land and there’s an honesty box at the gate to give a $5 donation per car.

Experience autumn in Arrowtown

This little village near Queenstown becomes the belle of the ball in autumn, when the whole town takes on the magical golden glow of an oil painting. The hills turn gold, the trees brighten from green to yellow, orange, and red, and everywhere you walk, leaves crunch underfoot. Plan your Arrowtown visit for between March and May to take in the full splendour of New Zealand’s most picturesque autumn, and maybe even get to attend the famous Arrowtown Autumn Festival, which takes place every April.

Ride the Alps 2 Ocean Cycle Trail

This world-famous cycle trail is a South Island best-of tour: an epic ride showcasing our highest mountains, great lakes and mighty rivers, right down to the stunning coastline. Starting either at the base of Aoraki Mount Cook or in Tekapo, the whole trail takes four to six days to complete, or you can choose to take in a small section in a single day.

Go native bird spotting on Rakiura Stewart Island

Stewart Island is considered one of the best spots in the country to spot kiwi in the wild. It’s home to an incredible variety of native birds, including our elusive national icon. Take a guided tour to maximise your chances, or try your luck at night on the beaches or forest paths. You’ll also be treated to the sounds and, if you’re keen-eyed, sights of tūī, kākā, kākāriki, kererū, korimako and more.

Visit the Orokonui Ecosanctuary

Get up close with some of Aotearoa’s rarest birds and take a guided tour through reclaimed forest. Headquarters for native flora and fauna, conservation and biodiversity, this 307-hectare wildlife sanctuary is a beautiful place for losing yourself in the peaceful surrounds of nature. Both guided tours and self-guided walks are available, and your guides will share stories of Orokonui’s history and conservation efforts as you explore the home of tuatara, Otago skinks, korimako, tūī, kākā, South Island robin, takahē, tītitipounamu and a great variety of native trees and other flora.

Experience Queen Charlotte Sound

A kayaking tour is the ideal way to explore native bush, secluded beaches, and spy wildlife such as stingrays, seals, penguins and dolphins. If you prefer to make your way on foot or by bike, the spectacular Queen Charlotte Track winds 72km into historic bays, through lush forest and alongside panoramic views, a popular trail for both walkers and mountain bikers. It takes between three and five days to hike, and there is also the option to hop aboard a water taxi if you feel like a break.

Bike the Otago Rail Trail

New Zealand’s original Great Ride, this multi-day adventure winds through incredible scenery, with a bit of history behind it. The trail is completely off-road, so your ride is traffic-free, passing through the ever-changing mountainous landscape and always accompanied by Otago’s expansive skies. It extends 150km along a former railway line, and its gentle gradient makes it suitable for riders of all levels.

Stare wide-eyed at Mt Aspiring National Park

This UNESCO World Heritage Area will knock you flat with views of its remote wilderness, high mountains and beautiful river valleys. Take in the majesty from the air with U-Fly Wanaka, where you can even have a go at flying the plane yourself, or tick off the once-in-a-lifetime experience of a glacier landing with Aspiring Helicopters. The park is also the home of the well-known Routeburn Track, a New Zealand Great Walk, and there are several other fantastic hikes to stretch your legs on as well.

Take your pick of ocean or lake views, native bush filled with birdsong or rolling green hills and buckets of sunshine, and enjoy a round on some of Aotearoa’s top-rated courses. This lush green land is perfect for golf, and these world-class, world-famous courses designed by legendary architects show off the best it has to offer.

Cape Kidnappers

Set on a clifftop and boasting staggering views in all directions, this Hawke’s Bay course is considered to be one of golf’s great modern marvels and will challenge players of all levels. The legendary and award-winning course was designed by renowned golf architect Tom Doak and regularly makes it onto lists of the world’s best golf courses.

Kauri Cliffs

Nestled into the hillside in the beautiful Bay of Islands, Kauri Cliffs’ 18 holes take players through marsh, forest, farmland, alongside cliffs and overlooking ocean. The course is ranked in the top 100 in the world, and the resort also offers luxury accommodation, private beaches and a day spa.

Carrington Golf Course

Carrington Estate’s course in Northland is a championship-standard 18-hole course with a variety of terrain designed to accommodate golfers of all abilities. Enjoy the unique vistas of wetlands, beach and ocean while navigating the waters and rolling vales of the course.

Kinloch Golf Club

A visual feast from beginning to end, this Taupō course designed by Jack Nicklaus enjoys stunning lake views and challenging strategic play. Kinloch Club plays homage to the great links of the British Isles and is one of New Zealand’s most respected and stimulating golf experiences.

Wairakei Golf + Sanctuary

This unique course doubles as a predator-free wildlife sanctuary, home to native birds such as kiwi and takahē as well as deer, pheasants and guinea fowl. Designed to take advantage of the natural landscape, the Wairakei Golf is truly world-class.

Ohope Beach Golf Links

A hidden gem on a narrow finger of land between the Pacific Ocean and Ohiwa Harbour, this beautiful seaside links course is rustic and natural, with undulating terrain and challenging fairways that have attracted golfers from all around the world.

Tara Iti

Another absolute beauty designed by Tom Doak, Tara Iti is an exclusive club just outside of Mangawhai, opened in 2015 and ranking at number six on Golf Digest’s list of the World’s 100 Greatest Golf Courses, the highest-ever debut on any of Golf Digest’s rankings. The course sits on the edge of Te Arai Beach and every hole offers gorgeous ocean views, and although membership is invite-only, it’s possible to play a round at Tara Iti as a non-member if you’re vouched for and stay on site overnight.

Paraparaumu Beach Golf Club

Commonly regarded as one of the greatest links courses in the Southern Hemisphere, this world-renowned course has hosted the New Zealand Open 12 times, more than any other course. With messy dunes and bumpy fairways, this course will challenge all elements of a golfer’s skill.

It’s happening, Aotearoa: Our drawbridge is coming down, and eagerly waiting on the other side are some incredible artists ready to make all our epic concert dreams come true. Flex your ticket-buying fingers and practise your dance moves because these gigs are going to be well worth the two years we’ve spent waiting for them.

Ed Sheeran just announced today he’s going to be treating us Kiwis to two huge shows next February, and we are beyond excited. Don’t lament the long wait too much, though – there are plenty of equally awesome concerts to let your hair down to between now and then.

In September, Grammy Award-winning punky pop princess Billie Eilish will rock out the stage at Auckland’s Spark Arena, with three incredible shows poised to show off her killer vocals and signature stage presence to maximum effect.

Next up is the pop phenomenon that is Dua Lipa, bringing her record-breaking, accolade-collecting dance sound to Spark Arena on November 2 and 3. You’ll need to keep your shizzle together though, because following right behind on November 4 and 5 is the lovable gangsta rap legend himself, Snoop Doggy Dogg. He’s hitting Christchurch’s Orangetheory Stadium first, then heading to Auckland’s Trusts Arena on November 5.

When talking of musical icons guaranteed to get an entire stadium singing along in unison, you’ll be coming out of your cage and doing just fine when The Killers make it to our shores in November – Monday 21 for Auckland, Friday 25 for Christchurch.

Justin Bieber fans may want to request their Christmas gifts early this year, because the Biebs will kick off our holiday season in style on December 7 at Auckland’s Mt Smart Stadium. Meanwhile, classic rock is going to be headbanging into Wellington on December 8, and Auckland’s Eden Park on December 10, by way of rock ‘n’ roll legends Guns N’ Roses. Don’t put away your moshing boots too soon – the Foo Fighters will close out the year with their unbeatable energy and catalogue of all-time rock hits in Wellington and Auckland on December 15 and 17.

The beginning of 2023 will be off to an amazing start with the long-awaited return of absolute icon Elton John, set to finish off his Farewell Yellow Brick Road tour with two Auckland shows on January 27 and 28. In February, Ed Sheeran - the redheaded crooner with a guitar you’d like to take home to meet your mother – is back in New Zealand for the first time in four years, and it’s guaranteed to be a bucket list event. Finally, one for the ‘90s kid in all of us – the ultimate boy band is bringing Backstreet back to Auckland on March 11.

Ripe: The Wānaka Wine & Food Festival is delivering good news to wine lovers everywhere – we can still take part in a celebration of Central Otago's wines, all without leaving the house.

Wānaka's much-anticipated wine and food festival did unfortunately fall victim to Covid restrictions, but the event creators were ready to think outside the box. Possibly the first virtual wine tasting event of its kind, the Ripe Virtual Tasting Session encourages people to hold their very own mini wine festivals at home, dedicated to sipping and savouring Central Otago's famous drops.

The virtual event will take place on Saturday March 19 from 2pm to 4.30pm, the same day of the original event, and will feature seven of Central Otago's finest wineries presenting two wines each. The winemakers will be joined by sommelier Candice Chow, who will help showcase each of the outstanding wines. The seven wineries taking part in the event are Akarua, Gibbston Valley, Mount Michael, Maori Point, Maude, Misha’s Vineyard and Quartz Reef Wines.

Ripe director Nathan White said, “We’re hoping everyone’s still got the original festival date in their diary and will embrace the idea of going virtual by hosting their very own watch party with friends. It’s a great way to spend an afternoon, sharing great Central Otago wine together.”

“If you can’t come to Ripe, we’ll bring Ripe to you,” he said.

The event is open to anyone who purchases one of the featured wines, available from Ripe's website. Once purchased, you will receive your unique code to access the Ripe Virtual Tasting.

ripewine.co.nz

Gig announcement! UK alt-rock band alt-J will headline a massive show at Spark Arena in September.

The welcome tour announcement comes ahead of the release of alt-J's new album The Dream (coming out tomorrow, February 11) which packs their latest single ‘The Actor’ and previously released tracks ‘Hard Drive Gold’, ‘U&ME’, and ‘Get Better’. The Dream will be the fourth studio album for alt-J.

Formed in Leeds, England, the band consists of Joe Newman (guitar/lead vocals), Thom Sonny Green (drums) and Gus Unger-Hamilton (keyboards/vocals). Together the trio produce an intoxicating sound that earned them the 2012 British Mercury Prize.

Expect an electrifying live show featuring bangers such as 'Breezeblocks', 'Left Hand Free' and 'Taro'.

alt-J The Dream tour
Spark Arena, Auckland
Saturday 17 September
ticketmaster.co.nz

New Zealand, your ultimate dining bible for 2022 is officially here: The results of the Cuisine Good Food Awards are in, and it's a serious wish list of mouthwatering dining experiences.

Comprising 135 restaurants located from Russell to Dunedin, the line-up showcases the incredible strength of Aotearoa's restaurant scene. Culinary hotspot Wellington particularly shines this year, with 23 placements on the list, as does Christchurch with six placements, and Dunedin with five.

Now in its 16th year, the Cuisine Good Food Awards is the only nationwide restaurant awards programme of its kind. It acknowledges the very best of New Zealand’s restaurants and chefs nationwide, and is viewed as the global authority on New Zealand's dining scene. This is the first time the awards have gone ahead since 2019, as it took a hiatus in 2020 due to Covid-19.

For more information on the Cuisine Top Restaurants and full list of awards, visit cuisine.co.nz.

Category winners for the 2021/2022 Cuisine Good Food Awards

1. American Express Restaurant of the Year

Amisfield / Queenstown

2. Cuisine Chef of the Year

Monique Fiso / Hiakai / Wellington

3. Best Metropolitan Restaurant

Ahi / Auckland

4. Best Regional Restaurant

Arbour / Blenheim

5. Antipodes Best Specialist Restaurant

Hiakai / Wellington

6. Best Casual Dining Restaurant

Floriditas / Wellington

7. Best Hotel Restaurant

Kingi / The Hotel Britomart / Auckland

8. De’Longhi Restaurant Personality of the Year

Pablo Arrasco Paz / Madame George / Auckland

9. Pastry Chef of the Year

Callum Liddicoat / Park Hyatt / Auckland

10. Ora King Innovation Award

Vaughan Mabee / Amisfield / Queenstown

11. Best Winery Restaurant

Craggy Range / Havelock North

12. Best Wine Experience

Scotch Wine Bar / Blenheim

13. Best Drinks List

Ahi / Auckland

14. Pead Food Legend / Long Term Player

Hopgood’s & Co. / Nelson

15. One to Watch (Rising Talent)

Georgia Van Prehn / Alta / Auckland

Andrea Marseglia / Teresa Cocktail Bar / Napier

Jackson Mehlhopt / Tussock Hill Cellar Door Restaurant / Christchurch

16. Champions For Change

Asher Boote / Hillside & Daisy’s / Wellington

Cuisine Good Food Awards 2021/2022 Top Restaurants

In alphabetical order

0
50-50 / Paraparaumu Beach

A
Ada / Auckland
Ahi / Auckland
Alma / Auckland
Alpino / Mount Maunganui
Alta / Auckland
Amayjen / Palmerston North
Amisfield / Queenstown
Amok / Wellington
Aosta / Arrowtown
Apéro / Auckland
Arbour / Blenheim
Atlas / Wellington

B
Baduzzi / Auckland
Bar Celeste / Auckland
Bar Magda / Auckland
Bar Yoku / Christchurch
Bellamys by Logan Brown / Wellington
Besos Latinos / Auckland
Bistronomy / Napier
Black Barn Bistro / Havelock North
Botswana Butchery / Auckland
Boulcott St Bistro / Wellington
Bracken / Dunedin

C
Candela / Auckland
Capitol / Wellington
Cassia / Auckland
Cazador / Auckland
Central Fire Station Bistro / Napier
Charley Noble / Wellington
Cibo / Auckland
Cinderella / Wellington
Clarence Bistro / Tauranga
Coco’s Cantina / Auckland
Cocoro / Auckland
Copia / Auckland
Cotto / Auckland
Craggy Range / Havelock North
Cucina / Oamaru
Culprit / Auckland

D
Depot / Auckland
Dragons / Wellington

E
Esther / Auckland

F
Federal Delicatessen / Auckland
Field & Green / Wellington
Fish / Auckland
Fleurs Place / Moeraki
Floriditas / Wellington
Forest / Auckland

G
Gatherings / Christchurch
Gin Gin / Christchurch
Gochu / Auckland
Gusto at the Grand / Auckland

H
Hali / Christchurch
Harbourside Ocean Bar Grill / Auckland
Harvest, The / Blenheim
Marlborough Hotel / Russell
Hawker House and Bar / Nelson
Hello Beasty / Auckland
Hiakai / Wellington
Highwater Eatery / Wellington
Hillside / Wellington
Hippopotamus / Wellington
Homeland / Auckland
Hopgood’s & Co. / Nelson
Huami / Auckland
Hugo’s Bistro / Auckland

I
Inati / Christchurch

J
Jano Bistro / Wellington

K
Kazuya / Auckland
Kika / Wanaka
Kingi / Auckland

L
La Marée / Auckland
Lilian / Auckland
Lillius / Auckland
Logan Brown / Wellington

M
Madame George / Auckland
Mapu / Lyttleton
Mary’s / Havelock North
Mason / Wellington
Masu by Nic Watt / Auckland
Meat & Liquor Steakhouse / New Plymouth
Mesita / Martinborough
Miro / Christchurch
Mister D / Napier
Moiety / Dunedin
Mr Hao / Auckland
Mr Morris / Auckland
Mr. Pickles Bar & Eatery / Hamilton

N
No 7 Balmac / Dunedin

O
Omni / Auckland
Onemata / Auckland
Onslow / Auckland
Ortega Fish Shack / Wellington

P
Pacifica / Napier
Palate / Hamilton
Paris Butter / Auckland
Pasta & Cuore / Auckland
Pasture / Auckland
Phil’s Kitchen / Auckland
Ponsonby Road Bistro / Auckland
Prego / Auckland
Prohibition Smokehouse / Dunedin

R
Rita / Wellington
Riverstone Kitchen / Oamaru
Rothko at Sculptureum / Matakana

S
Sage at Paroa Bay / Russell
Salty Pidgin Bar & Bistro / Wellington
Scotch Wine Bar / Blenheim
Shed 5 / Wellington
Shepherd / Wellington
Sherwood / Queenstown
Sid at the French Cafe / Auckland
Sidart / Auckland
Social Kitchen / New Plymouth
Somerset Cottage / Tauranga
Soul Bar & Bistro / Auckland
State Bistro / New Plymouth
Sugo / Tauranga

T
Tantalus Estate / Waiheke Island
The Bistro / Taupō The Chef’s Table at Blue Duck Station / Ōwhango
The Engine Room / Auckland
The Grove / Auckland
The Lodge Bar / Auckland
The Oyster Inn / Waiheke Island
The Sawmill Brewery and Smoko Room / Leigh
The Shed at Te Motu / Waiheke Island
The Sugar Club / Auckland
Three Seven Two / Waiheke Island
Tītī / Dunedin

U
Urban Eatery Restaurant & Bar / Nelson

W
Wallingford Restaurant / Wallingford
WBC / Wellington
White + Wong’s / Auckland

cuisine.co.nz

Te Waipounamu, the South Island, is home to incredible untouched wilderness, nature reserves and some of the rarest wildlife in the world. Connect to the wonders of the natural world we live in by catching a glimpse of these Aotearoa locals in their own environment.

Whales

Seeing these magnificent ocean mammals gliding along below the surface, spraying water from their blowholes or showing off their tails is one of those once-in-a-lifetime experiences you’ll never forget. Kaikōura is one of the best places in the world to go whale watching, with unique currents and geographical features creating the perfect environment to keep the whales close to shore all year round. Hop aboard a tour with Whale Watch Kaikōura and be taken out to the feeding grounds, where your odds of seeing a whale are so good they guarantee it.

Dolphins

These friendly, playful and intelligent creatures are almost universally beloved and are commonly found in the waters of the South Island. Sociable and delightful dusky dolphins make the waters of Kaikōura their playground, and you can get up close to them with Dolphin Encounter Kaikōura, either from the boat or by joining them in the water. Akaroa is Hector’s dolphin HQ, and you can take a tour with Black Cat Cruises to see or swim with these little guys, the smallest and rarest dolphin in the world. Other dolphin hotspots include the Marlborough Sounds, Fiordland, and the Catlins.

Seals

Sometimes called the doggos of the sea, there are a few key places to see seals in the South Island, and even kayak among them. Kaikōura is a guaranteed seal-spotting stop, with a large population to be found lounging on the rocks alongside the Peninsula Walkway. This is also your chance to share the water with seals on a kayaking expedition with Seal Kayak Kaikōura. Ōhau Point Lookout just north of Kaikōura is home to a well-known seal colony, complete with viewing platform and parking spaces so you can make the most of the seal entertainment. You’ve got an excellent chance of seeing seals in Milford Sound, Dunedin’s Sandfly Bay, Golden Bay, Nugget Point in the Catlins, Tauranga Bay and Cape Foulwind on the West Coast, Banks Peninsula near Christchurch, and in Abel Tasman National Park.

Penguins

How cute are penguins? Comical waddlers on land and streamlined torpedos in the water, penguins are popular with people of all ages. The Oamaru Blue Penguin Colony and Caroline Bay in Timaru are top spots for seeing the world’s smallest penguin going about its business, and in Akaroa you can take a kayak safari to see the Pohatu Marine Reserve’s resident penguins. You'll have a good shot at spying yellow-eyed penguins in the Catlins – Curio Bay is a popular spot – and in the dunes and on the beaches in Dunedin and on the Otago Peninsula. Take a tour of the working conservation reserve at Dunedin’s Penguin Place, where you’ll learn about how the reserve works to support the survival of yellow-eyed penguins, and all proceeds go back into the conservation programme. You’ll find both blue and yellow-eyed penguins getting their waddle on among the rocks of Stewart Island, and Monro Beach on the West Coast is one of the few places you might get to see a Fiordland crested penguin, the second rarest in the world.

Albatross and gannets

The Otago Peninsula is home to the world’s only mainland colony of northern royal albatross at Tairoa Head, a truly unique opportunity to see these majestic birds up close. Albatross Encounter Kaikōura is another great way to see some of the largest sea birds in the world, this time out at sea. The gannet colony at Farewell Spit is unusual in that it’s almost at sea level, making it ideal for observing the gannet families.

Kiwi

The national icon of New Zealand is not only rare and nocturnal but also notoriously shy, making them very difficult to find in the wild. Possibly the best place to do so is on Rakiura Stewart Island or the neighbouring wildlife sanctuary of Ulva Island. If a ferry trip isn’t in your plans, however, you can still see our feathered friends at Willowbank Wildlife Reserve or Orana Park in Christchurch. West Coast Wildlife Centre is the place to see the rarest of all kiwi, the rowi, and Queenstown’s Kiwi Birdlife Park is a five-acre wildlife sanctuary offering conservation shows, self-guided tours and an educational kiwi encounter.

Warm up your applauding hands and prepare to be amazed, because Bread & Circus – World Buskers Festival is back on Christchurch's event calendar for 2022.

Christchurch's famous World Buskers Festival may have been knocked from its usual January slot thanks to the shenanigans of old mate Covid, but everyone's favourite laugh-out-loud performing arts and street theatre event will be back to entertain us during the Easter school holidays, from 22 April to 1 May.

This year's festival playground will be Victoria Square and The Commons, with two main stages, roving performers, food stalls and activities for the whole whānau. Both Fridays and Saturdays during the festival will feature a late night programme aimed at a more adult audience. The Bread & Circus site will be free to enter, and you will need to show your Vaccine Pass on entry.

“In a troubled world, we all need more time to relax and time to play," says Festival Director Scott Maidment. "At Bread & Circus, we have created a playground for the young, the old and the young at heart. We’re excited to present this unique festival experience and the perfect antidote to our troubled times.”

As always, the programme will feature some absolutely unmissable international and local acts, such as award-winning comedian and magician Jared Fell; the Mystical Jinx duo, with their specialised form of illusion dating back to 16th Century Italy; and Kozo Kaos, who combines juggling, magic and comedy with danger and the macabre.

ChristchurchNZ General Manager of Destination and Attraction Loren Heaphy says, “Bread & Circus has become one of our city’s favourite events, an annual celebration of talent, vibrancy and diversity. It will bring life to the central city and confirm Ōtautahi Christchurch as a centre for arts and culture."

There are many more artists to be announced and more precincts too, so keep an eye on the Bread & Circus website and socials for the latest info.

breadandcircus.co.nz

These four preliminary design images give an exciting glimpse at what Christchurch's new stadium, the Canterbury Multi-Use Arena, will look like.

The designs are by Christchurch-based architects Warren & Mahoney and international stadium design experts Populous, showing some views of the outside of the arena and a look at what the seating and field will look like from the top of the stands.

CMUA (Canterbury Multi-Use Arena) Project Delivery Ltd Board Chair Barry Bragg says the preliminary designs, developed by the Kōtui consortium, provide the most accurate picture yet of what the facility will look like once completed. “These designs crystallise our vision for the CMUA to be the most modern, fit-for-purpose arena in the country – a facility that leads the way from an innovation and sustainability perspective.’’

The CMUA will occupy much of the central Christchurch site bordered by Hereford, Barbadoes, Tuam and Madras streets. At 232 metres long, 195 metres wide and 36 metres high at its tallest point, the arena will seat up to 30,000 people for sporting events and up to 37,800 in concert mode.

"We know people are really excited about the prospect of having a covered arena in the heart of the city and we hope these preliminary designs will capture people’s imaginations and give them a glimpse of what is to come," Bragg says. "We are well on the way towards delivering Christchurch a world-class covered arena with high-quality acoustics that is capable of hosting top international music concerts as well as major international sporting fixtures."

The current design has a dome-shaped 'oculus'-style roof, an independent structure that is 175 by 210 metres.

Christchurch City Councillors will meet to approve the complete preliminary design package in January, with the developed design scheduled to be completed by April. The CMUA Board plans to deliver the world-class arena by 30 June, 2025.

ccc.govt.nz