Hot springs, fountain geysers, rich flora and fauna, glaring glaciers; are some New Zealand treasures. What are the best places to visit in New Zealand? There are so many great places to visit that I need days to list them. With all this in mind and to help you plan your travel to New Zealand, I have decided to compile a list of the 10 top tourist attractions in this nature-crafted country. So, let's start. But to check New Zealand visa requirements for your nationality, please check the "Services" page on our website.
10. Kaikoura
Located on the South Island between the Southern Alps and the Pacific Ocean, 180 kilometers north of Christchurch, Kaikoura is one of the must see places in New Zealand. If you dream of an exciting and unforgettable holiday, then you shall definitely visit this place. Thousands of people worldwide flock to Kaikoura every year to watch whales. You can take whale watching tours to spot whales and dolphins, and albatrosses and have a good time at the events held from November to March. Moreover, you may have an outstanding vacation by observing the local sea creatures living in the deep ocean waters of the southeastern part of the Kaikoura Peninsula by helicopter flights.
9. Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers
Among the most accessible glaciers in the world, Franz Josef and Fox glaciers are among the main tourist attractions in New Zealand. Pinnacles at the foot of the glaciers and the frozen landscape of mountain peaks will leave you open-mouthed. After visiting this place and seeing this fascinating, you will feel so lucky.
8. Abel Tasman National Park
Abel Tasman National Park is one of the top tourist attractions in New Zealand. Though it is the smallest national park in New Zealand, the memories it will leave in you will be outstanding and precious. Located on the northern tip of South Island, this national park is the dream of all travelers. Closed to vehicles, this amazing park can be visited by boat, small plane, or foot. Although it is hard to walk here, it is worth it. While crossing the mountainous terrain, blue penguins, wood pigeons, and rare birds will make your journey exciting and memorable.
7. Whakaari / White Island
If you want to make your trip even more exciting, then Whakaari is one of the best places to visit in New Zealand. The country's most active volcano is situated here, which makes this place an ideal spot for all adventure seekers. You can enjoy the breathtaking view of the volcano by traveling to Whakaari by helicopter. Gas masks and special clothing are required due to the active volcano. If you get lucky, you can also watch the volcanologists studying volcanoes. You can also take a boat tour of the island. There is also an opportunity for adventurous travelers to dive around White Island and explore the underwater cavities of volcanoes.
6. Sky Tower
It is an observation and telecommunications tower in Auckland, New Zealand. At the height of 328 meters, it is the tallest technological structure in the Southern Hemisphere and offers a view of up to 80 km away from all directions. If you want to add some excitement to your trip, you can have an unforgettable experience walking on the 192-meter-high Sky Walk.
5. Waitomo Caves
Waitomo Caves are one of the top tourist attractions in New Zealand, and it is located on the North Island of New Zealand. The two million-year-old cave system beneath a small village is home to rare species of Arachnocampa Luminosa worms, causing the glowing effect. The blue bioluminescence makes the cave really unique and magical. These caves are the only and unique place in New Zealand with such a fantastic view.
4. Mitai Maori village
It is believed that the villagers came from Hawaiki, Polynesia, 1000 years ago. You can get acquainted with the local Maori culture in Mitai Maori village. Moreover, you will have a great time watching the waka hourua full of warriors and tasting the traditionally cooked Hangi dish.
3. Kayaking in the Bay of Islands
Want to be closer to nature? If so, then this is the best place to visit in New Zealand. You can sea kayak, fish, watch dolphins and other sea creatures here.
2. Hobbiton
All aware of that, one of the most influential and prominent film series Lord of the Rings was filmed in the precious nature of New Zealand. Hobbiton was a place designed for the film. After the shooting, it was kept as a tourist attraction. Taking the tour to Hobbiton, you can step into the world of Hobbits and experience unforgettable moments by looking at the Bag End, where the adventures of Frodo and Bilbo begin, getting lost in the Hobbit holes, and visiting the Green Dragon Hotel. You will be amazed once again by listening to the magical tales about how the Hobbiton was established.
1. Wai-o-tapu Thermal Wonderland
Wai means water, and Tapu is sacred, i.e., the name of the park is "sacred waters." The last one in our tourist attractions in New Zealand list, Wai-o-tapu Thermal Wonderland, is one of the best tourist attractions in the world. Located on the North Island, this city park is located on a volcano. You will be amazed by the red rocks, yellow sulfur caves, bubbling orange and blue pools, and a bright, green lake as soon as you enter the Thermal Wonderland Park. While walking in the park, you will see mud pools, sulphuric kurgans, a bright blue oyster pool, and a lot of volcanic activity. In particular, you will want to revisit this place after seeing the Devil's Bath, the pool filled with neon green or yellow water, which you will not see anywhere else. It will take only a 75-minute walk to Lake Ngakoro, formed by a volcanic eruption 700 years ago, at the end of the park. The dark green color of the lake adds exceptional beauty to the park.
