Cities & regions

There’s much to explore in New Zealand’s 28 regions and 13 cities. From buzzing city life with its killer shopping and dining through to sleepy country towns, lush countryside and rugged landscapes, you’ll find it all here – conveniently packaged in the one country!

Around the North Island

Auckland New Zealand’s main international gateway; the colourful and cosmopolitan ‘City of Sails’.

Bay of Plenty Beaches bathed in sunshine, vibrant towns and outdoor adventures on land and sea.

The Coromandel A rustic and unspoilt landscape boasting rich heritage, rainforest and a long coastline.

Gisborne & Eastland An authentic taste of coastal New Zealand life in the first part of the world to see the sun.

Hawke’s Bay Art Deco architecture and fine wine are the perfect blend in this pretty coastal region.

Manawatu Thriving contemporary culture complemented by rural New Zealand charm.

Northland & Bay of Islands Birthplace of a nation, blessed with pristine beaches and forests in a subtropical climate.

Rotorua A fascinating blend of Māori and European cultures in a remarkable geothermal area.

Ruapehu A trio of volcanoes watches over this central North Island region that’s home to some outstanding skiing.

Taranaki Explore dramatic surf coastline and an iconic mountain in a region steeped in history.

Taupo Lake Taupo is the epicentre of a region bursting with adventure and natural attractions.

Waikato & Waitomo Tranquil rolling hills and lush gardens complement unforgettable caving adventures.

Wairarapa A quintessentially New Zealand blend of rustic charm, rugged scenery and wineries.

Wellington Sophisticated and stylish, offering cultural experiences in a beautiful harbour setting.

Whanganui Gateway to a rich cultural history and magnificent river scenery.

Around the South Island

Central Otago A starkly beautiful landscape rich with gold-mining history and remarkable scenery.

Christchurch & Canterbury Outdoor adventures in a rugged landscape and the rich heritage of the South Island’s largest city.

Dunedin & Coastal Otago Intriguing history in a quirky university city famous for creativity and amazing wildlife encounters.

Fiordland Astonishing scenery and unforgettable wilderness experiences in a remote and pristine region.

Kaikoura Unforgettable marine life where the mountains meet the sea.

Lake Wanaka Outdoor adventures amid spectacular alpine scenery on the doorstep of Mt Aspiring National Park.

Marlborough Sparkling inlets, pristine forest and renowned wineries bathed in abundant sunshine.

Mount Cook & Mackenzie Astonishing blue lakes and soaring peaks abound in a beautiful alpine and rural landscape dotted with tranquil country towns.

Nelson & Abel Tasman Three national parks, golden beaches and turquoise water make this a natural paradise.

Queenstown Sparkling resort in an outdoor adventure playground against a stunning backdrop of a sparkling lake and rugged mountains.

Southland & Stewart Island A remote and beautiful region of rolling hills, rugged coastline and sparkling rivers in the far south.

Waitaki Both fascinating geology and historic architecture are to be found in the Northern Otago region.

West Coast An untamed coastal paradise bursting with remarkable scenery and rare native wildlife.

Cities & regions

Auckland City | Photo: Chris McLennan, Tourism Auckland