Top 10 Things To See & Do
in New Zealand
- 1 Whale-watching in Kaikoura
Kaikoura is a unique and magnificent location, topping so many must-see lists. Whale-watching is a fun and exhilarating activity that you’ll reminisce about long after your holiday is over – see these fascinating creatures up close is an incredible experience and Kaikoura virtually guarantees sightings. What’s more, the town is pretty and offers beautiful coastal scenery. - 2 Swim with dolphins off the Bay of Islands
One of the most exhilarating excursions you can do in New Zealand, this is truly remarkable. The Bay of Islands is one of New Zealand’s most scenic locations and journeying along the coast at the same level as a pod of dolphins is an unforgettable experience. This part of the country is often overlooked but the myriad islands, warm waters and balmy climate is just like paradise. - 3 Ride the TranzAlpine Train
The TranzAlpine train journeys from Christchurch to Greymouth on the South Island and is renowned for being one of the most scenic train journeys in the world. Passing breath-taking vistas and naturally striking landscapes along the way, it’s easy to see why this makes its way onto so many New Zealand itineraries. - 4 Book a self-drive holiday
Making your way through New Zealand at your own pace is an experience everyone should enjoy at least once – it’s awe-inspiring and the vast landscapes are some of the best in the world to travel by road. Whether you choose a car, motorhome or motorbike, the long empty roads and stunning scenery are perfect for self-drive adventures. - 5 Drive the Pacific Coast Highway
The Pacific Coast Highway is one of the greatest touring routes in the world, winding along the east coast of the North Island. Connecting the Coromandel Peninsula, Bay of Plenty and Whakatane, and Eastland with Auckland in the North and Hawke’s Bay in the South, it’s a terrific route. - 6 Walk the Routeburn trek
While it may be one of the more energetic additions to this list, it’s by far one of the most worthwhile – the scenery along this route is unbelievable. Passing fast-paced waters, rickety bridges and over towering viewpoints, this two to three-day trek is worth every moment. - 7 Visit a genuine Maori Marae
The Maori culture is a key aspect of New Zealand’s heritage and history, so learning more about it is a true honour for any visitor. Experience a truly warm Maori welcome and lose yourself in the fascinating history of this amazing destination. - 8 Do a bungee jump
This is the ultimate adrenalin rush! Surrounded by breath-taking scenery, plummet into the cavernous space beneath you before making your way back to your starting point – if you’re looking for something memorable, this is certainly the answer to your search. - 9 Sail around Auckland Harbour
Auckland is a beautiful city with an even more beautiful harbour, so make the most of its waterfront setting with a gentle sailing trip. A visit to this destination isn’t complete with making your way onto the waters and what better way than in the comfort of a yacht, lapped by the cool breeze as you enjoy the sunshine. - 10 Visit the geothermal attractions of Rotorua
Rotorua is a unique location with some of the most interesting scenery in the country. A natural playground of geothermal activity, creating bubbling mud pools, hot springs and shooting geysers, it’s a fun place to visit and a must if you’re venturing through the North Island.