Things to Do in New Zealand: An Essential Travel Guide for Exploring the Wonders

Xperience Team
05 Jan 2024 - 4 min read

Plan your trip to New Zealand! Here is your guide to must-visit attractions, from stunning landscapes to thrilling activities, for an unforgettable journey.

Welcome to the enchanting land of New Zealand! Renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty, this country is a dream destination for adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. With a diverse landscape that includes majestic mountains, captivating lakes, and exotic beaches, New Zealand offers an unforgettable holiday experience.

Beyond its mesmerizing scenery, New Zealand's cultural diversity and genuine warmth make every visit a unique adventure. In this travel guide, we will explore various must-do activities in New Zealand, guiding you through the wonders waiting to be discovered. Get ready to immerse yourself in the charm and marvels of an unforgettable New Zealand experience!

Must Things to Do in New Zealand

Now, let's discover more about what you can do in New Zealand, starting with the top tourist destinations.

1. Hobbiton

Have you ever experienced an epic adventure through The Hobbit film? If so, you must be familiar with the enchanting beauty of the hobbit houses. Located in The Shire, Matamata, North Island, New Zealand, Hobbiton features striking hobbit homes and showcases landscapes of hills and mountains that closely resemble those seen in the movie.

Accompanied by a movie expert guide, the two-hour adventure of the Hobbiton Movie Set Tour begins with a journey across a vast 1,250-acre sheep farm. The guide will share fascinating stories about the farm's transformation into a filming location while visiting Hobbit Holes, the Mill, the Double-Arched Bridge, and much more!

Hobbiton Movie Set Tour | New Zealand

AU$115

2. Pukaki Lake

Lake Pukaki can mesmerize any visitor with its crystal-clear blue waters. Surrounded by colorful lupine flowers, immerse yourself in an unforgettable experience, enjoying three wonders at once: the clear lake waters, flower-filled shores, and the captivating view of Mount Cook – all bundled together in an unforgettable camping moment.

The light blue hue of the lake creates its own charm, while the serene surroundings provide an opportunity to relax by the lakeside for an extended period. Appreciating the beauty of nature while experiencing tranquility, Lake Pukaki becomes an unforgettable destination in New Zealand.

3. Bay of Islands

Comprising 144 neatly arranged islands, the Bay of Islands offers a diverse array of captivating bays and beaches. The underwater beauty beneath the Bay of Islands also beckons adventurers, especially those who enjoy water sports like sailing, fishing, and other activities. Scuba diving is a popular choice, where you can interact directly with dolphins and whales.

For an unforgettable experience, you can join the Bay of Islands Waterfall Cruise and Kayaking Tour. Through this kayaking adventure, you will explore the mangrove forest, observe nesting seabird colonies on hanging trees, and reach astonishing destinations where a waterfall flows into the sea. It's the perfect blend of nature, adventure, and tranquility.

Bay of Islands Waterfall Cruise and Kayaking Tour

See Price

4. Queenstown

Often dubbed a year-round destination for everyone, Queenstown offers a variety of exciting activities, including trekking, hiking, white-water rafting, and exploring culinary delights.

Skydive Wanaka Experience | New Zealand

AU$278

However, when visiting Queenstown, don't miss the chance to experience the city's charm from above with the Skydive Wanaka Experience. Known as the steepest gondola in New Zealand, this ride takes visitors to admire the beauty of Queenstown from a height of up to 450 meters.

5. Franz Josef Glacier

Located on the South Island of New Zealand, within the Westland Tai Poutini National Park, Franz Josef Glacier is situated approximately 4.4 kilometers from Franz Josef and about 26.7 kilometers from Fox Glacier.

Heli Hike in Franz Josef Glacier

See Price

Visitors can partake in various thrilling activities, such as heli-hiking, to witness the glacier's beauty from the aerial perspective. The allure of this place is truly captivating, offering eye-pleasing vistas. Experience walking on the ice with an experienced guide or witness the glacier's beauty from a helicopter, landing atop the snowy peaks.

6. Waitomo Glowworm Caves

Waitomo Glowworm Caves in New Zealand is the ultimate destination for visitors seeking to witness a unique and beautiful spectacle. The cave provides a mesmerizing experience with thousands of glowing worms illuminating the cave ceiling. Travelers can explore the cave by a small boat through the Waitomo Glowworm Caves Guided Tour, navigating a river inside the 130-year-old caves.

Waitomo Glowworm Caves Guided Tour | New Zealand

See Price

During the trip, you'll witness the bioluminescent glow of the worms' bodies, creating an extraordinary sight. This tour not only offers the beauty of nature but also provides insights into the cave's phenomena, these creatures, and their significance in New Zealand's culture.

Tips to Visit New Zealand

After immersing yourself in the beauty of New Zealand, it's essential to know some tips to maximize your holiday experience in this amazing country.

Although New Zealand is known for being a safe country, remain vigilant by locking your luggage and avoiding late-night outings. Choose crowded and popular destinations, and keep emergency number 111 handy for urgent situations.
Take advantage of i-Site, the tourism center in every city in New Zealand. Get comprehensive information, maps, and brochures to ease your travels.
Plan your visits based on the seasons. Summer is ideal for exploring beaches and lush landmarks, while winter is perfect for a skiing experience. Fall offers a view of the leaves falling, and consider avoiding visits during the windy spring season.
Plan your travel destinations in New Zealand thoroughly, including the places you want to visit. Take note of their operating hours. Certain shops and banks are usually open every day, while supermarkets have more extensive operating hours.
Book hotels, flight tickets, and entrance tickets to attractions well in advance, especially during holiday season.

Before your adventure in New Zealand begins, make everything easier and time-efficient by booking hotel accommodations, flights, and even entrance tickets to amazing attractions through Traveloka!Find the best deals and enjoy the convenience of online booking. Don't miss the magical moments in this beautiful country. Visit Traveloka now to plan your unforgettable journ

Hotels
Flights
Things to Do
Always Know the Latest Info
Subscribe to our newsletter for more travel & lifestyle recommendations and exciting promos.
Subscribe