New Zealand is a land of enchanted landscapes. Dozens of breathtaking beaches, incredible glaciers and the most beautiful fiordlands in the world grace her islands, making this a land where everything seems possible.
For the nature enthusiast and outdoor adventurer this is a paradise destination, though there are many things to do for a variety of different travel styles. Those traveling for food can taste typical kiwi dishes, such as lamb or mutton bird, or you can take part in a typical beer and wine taste.
Cultural buffs can immerse themselves in the rich history and unique culture of the Māori community. Sports fans can watch the All Blacks smash Australia in rugby, or gamers can access the best NZ online casino sites once they land in the country.
There’s a lot to choose from in New Zealand depending on what you feel like doing. Though the following 6 are activities that no-one should miss!
Activities in New Zealand You Don’t Want to Miss
Kayaking in Abel Tasman National Park
One of New Zealand’s best-known parks is located at the top of the South Island, and its popularity is due to the trek that allows you to cross the entire reserve (it’s the country’s smallest National Park at 22,530 hectares).
Abel Tasman National Park is renowned for its golden beaches, sculptured granite cliffs (with a scattering of limestone and marble), and its world-famous coast track, though kayaking tours can be a great way to experience the park from the water.
Sailing, boating and sea kayaking allows you to access some of the sheltered coves that the coastal track bypasses, so is a great way to experience more remote parts of the park that hikers typically don’t get to see. Tours and rentals can be arranged locally.
This is a great destination for combining relaxation and adventure; shoulder seasons are the best time to visit if you’re hoping for quieter beaches.
Bungee Jumping in Queenstown
Queenstown is the adventure capital of the world, and if you’ve ever thought of pushing your limits with an adrenaline activity, the city has plenty of ways for you to find out!
Bungee jumping however is a signature experience in Queenstown, largely because this was the first ever commercial bungee jump to open anywhere in the world.
The Kawarau Bungy Centre is a ‘must- visit’ destination for any thrill seeker; this is the ‘World Home of Bungy’, where the whole concept of the commercial bungee jump started, and one of the top 10 bungee jumps in the world.
The jump itself will see you fall 43 meters into a stunning gorge, with the option to dip your head into the water below. You’ll then be pulled back up to solid ground on the historic suspension bridge from which you just fell.
Bird Watching at Otago Peninsula
Located to the east of Dunedin, the Otago Peninsula is the kingdom of the largest birds on earth. New Zealand isn’t known for having an abundance of wildlife experiences, though this is one of the best places to spot an albatross.
The northern part of the peninsula is home to the Royal Albatross Centre where you can see first hand the only place in the world where Royal Albatross nest and breed on a mainland.
Pukekura/Taiaroa Head is home to over 20 species of wildlife including a colony of Little Blue Penguins at Pilots Beach.
Trekking the Tongariro Crossing
This one-day trek takes place in New Zealand’s oldest park, the Tongariro. Recommended for those who are expert in mountain excursions, this trek allows you to cross volcanic craters on the slopes of the peak that gives the name to the entire park.
“The Tongariro National Park is rich in both cultural identity and dramatic, awe-inspiring natural scenery. Unique landforms, including the volcanic peaks of Ngauruhoe, Tongariro and Ruapehu ensure the Tongariro Alpine Crossing is considered a world-renowned trek.
Many who complete the 19.4-kilometer journey will tell you the climbs can be steep and the weather unpredictable, though worth it in every aspect.” As the volcanoes are active, you should check recent volcanic activity before taking the trek.
Image credit: Jeff P (CC BY 2.0) via Flickr
Cycle Down an Old Railway
The Otago Railway was once considered to be one of the greatest train trips in the world. Connecting the coastal town of Dunedin to the mining area of the hinterland, it closed down in 1990 and has since become one of New Zealand’s most popular cycling paths.
Today, starting from Dunedin, you can take the train and enjoy a scenic trip until you reach Middlemarch. The route winds through the countryside and allows you to discover historic gold-mining villages, country pubs, and rugged scenery, with some great off-trail adventures.
The route is open all year round, and is all off-road with no other traffic.
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Megan is an Australian Journalist and award-winning travel writer who has been blogging since 2007. Her husband Mike is the American naturalist and wildlife photographer behind Waking Up Wild; an online magazine dedicated to opening your eyes to the wonders of the wild & natural world.
Having visited 50+ countries across all seven continents, Megan’s travels focus on cultural immersion, authentic discovery and incredible journeys. She has a strong passion for ecotourism, and aims to promote responsible travel experiences.
