I dare say that it is quite difficult to know where to start when people ask about the highlights of New Zealand. This amazing country is truly teeming with various forms of natural wealth in a rather small territory. This world is like a place where, after several hours’ drive, you can wake up on a beach and the next day skiing in the snow. This is specifically an excellent place for road trips as there is much to explore and do for hikers and adventurers who love their rush in parachuting or bungee jumping amidst beautiful sceneries.
In this article, well document some of the highlights of the dream road trip that spans six to seven weeks of backpacking across New Zealand and the planning, so that you can follow the same to plan you own adventure!
One Simple Traveler’s Tip
Before diving into the adventures, here’s a handy tip: If you want to hire a car to drive around New Zealand here are some of the websites that can assist you for instance, Sunnycars. nl and Discovercars. com. Although there are some rentals that are cheaper like Sunny Cars, fully insured car rentals with excellent service are provided by them, and with that there might be some increase in price but it is a worthy investment for a pleasant and worry-free trip. But on the other hand Discover Cars quite often offers very good rates that is worth considering.
New Zealand Highlights: North Island for short is the one that lies to the north of the equatorial line in the South Pacific.
1. Tongariro Crossing
Undoubtedly one of the top things to do in New Zealand is the Tongariro Crossing. It is a one-day hike which stretches 17 kilometers though the typical time to spend on the hiking is between six to eight hours. The experience is good for the souls, the eyes, ears, and the hearts; with sites of the active volcanoes, the red craters that light up the entire environment, or the clear blue-green lakes. It is a difficult trek that the hikers are paid back with great views and the feeling of a great accomplishment. Irrespective of whether you are an experienced trekker or simply a lover of the nature this will be one of the most memorable experiences of your life.
2. Rotorua
Rotorua is a town that given its name of New Zealand’s theme for volcanos. Here, there is a natural hot spring and geysers and therefore it will be a perfect location. The smell of the air is a pungent one, more specifically one that has hints of sulfur as they resembled the smell of raw eggs – but do not be put off. Still, the geothermal wonders add the picturesque aspect to the environment, and if your nose disapproves the stinking bottoms of your shoes, then you don’t believe in the attractiveness of beauty and nature. On one side it is a spectacular place to marvel at the forces of the earth and on the other side – to enjoy hot pools, so it is a rather impressive switch of experience.
3. Whanganui-A-Hei Marine Reserve
This marine reserve also known as Cathedral Cove is well renowned for the sandy beaches and majestic cliffs. These natural sculptures are ideal to climb on, sit on or even play adventure on. There are three methods you can use to get to Cathedral Cove; a one-hour walk, canoe, or by boat. The trekking itself is excitement, one gets to view beautiful sceneries and can also get close to nature as they relax. It is a great place for a sunbathing day and happening in beautiful scenery.
4. Hot Water Beach
The beautiful Hot Water Beach is something unconventional that cannot be overlooked here, at Hot Water Beach you can literally dig into the sand and make a hot water pool that is derived from the underground hot springs. It is rather like having the beach shower with water of your own, prepared especially for the relaxing bath! However, beware of areas that can become extremely hot, sizzling even, to the extent that when you touch it with your feet, you get a burn. This activity enhances the fun part of your day at the beach, thus making it a memorable one.
5. Auckland
Auckland is a very lively city which has somewhat of a ‘no worries’ atmosphere and is surrounded by beautiful nature. From here, there are boat trips for ashort distance where you can go toRangitoto or Tiritiri Matangi Island, where you learn more about the New Zealand and Maoris. Another valuable source is the Auckland Museum that will also provide the guests with the information about the history of New Zealand. For the adventurers there is not only a view in the Sky Tower, but there is also bungee jumping and the flight on the Skywalk. For history lovers, the museums of Auckland will impress You, for lovers of different cultures You should pay attention to Maori culture and for fans of adventures – the nature of this land is fascinating.
6. Learning The Haka
The Haka is a form of dance that belongs to Maori people of New Zealand, a dance characterized by deep moves and voiced chants. Originating from male performers it is mainly a war dance but can also be used in other important occasions such as funerals as well as weddings. :This is as a result of the numerous cultural centers in New Zealand where more about this cultural aspect can be learnt from. Getting a Haka yourself is also a good experience, though you might feel a little ridiculous at the first instance. This is one way of coming face to face with the Maori people and their culture and history.
7. Waitomo Caving
Waitomo provides tourist a thrilling and more than contional caving tour. Rather than extending your trek simply to having a stroll in a cave, you will be rappelling down waterfalls, crawling through narrow crevices as well as coming out all drenched. The best part of the tour is when the body of the caves is lit with the warm and speckled appearance similar to stars in the night sky, through the glowworms. What a ride, it is an unique and eye popping experience that makes your New Zealand tour a bit adventurous.
8. Surfing in Raglan
Raglan is a beautiful little town that attract tourists especially surfers because of its wonderful sea waves. The town is ideal for surfing whether you are a professional surfer or you have never been on a surfboard in your life. You can also take surf lessons if it is your first time be taking part in the game of surfing. The pace of the town is quite laid back meaning that going for a vacation to the town will be more enjoyable as you get to enjoy the beach. It is an ideal place to meet the wave-centered culture of New Zealand and possibly even gain a new hobby.
9. View of Mount Taranaki
The beautiful volcano of Mount Taranaki looks like a natural similar to the famous Fuji in Japan. The only way to truly appreciate it is to drive around the town of Stratford to have a clear and concise view of this great surge of mountain. The view of the Taranaki Mount cannot be explained in detail, as it is better to see it with your own eyes; especially when the day is clear and there is no fog, which often obscures the shape of the mountain. It is every photographer’s paradise and a tourist who enjoys nature’s beauty will find it rather soothing throughout his or her trips.
10. Te Papa Museum, Wellington
Te Papa Museum in Wellington is definitely worth a visit even if you are not the type of person to visit museums. In contrast to many museum which might be rather formal and at times even dull, Te Papa is highly immersion. They include free Entry and the Company boasts of having many types of exhibits some of which are natural history, Cultural artifacts. Of all the specimens, the largest one is the colossal squid and the numerous shells. It is a perfect educational place to learn more about New Zealand’s ethnic background as well as a biological evolution in an entertaining way.
11. Bay of Islands
Being a coastal area the Bay of Islands represents a true treasure of natural beauty. It boasts of clear water bodies, forests, and several trails a great place for tourists to take a walk. This is an ideal place for water activities such as kayaking and sailing because the area is surrounded by water and this offers an opportunity to rent sailboats or kayaks. This acts as a bonus for the area as there are waterfalls and forests, which increases on the exploration and relaxation aspect of the park. New Zealand’s Bay of Islands is splendid for those who like to embace the nature – it is perfect for both, hiking in the woods and boating.
12. Skydive Taupo
For the crazy ones, Taupo has the relatively cheapest options for skydiving in all of New Zealand. By far you can skydive in numerous places within the country, however; Taupo is even more cherished as it offers beautiful sceneries of the lake and charges reasonable fees. The moment one is freely falling with only an oxygen mask on and the varieties of serenity surrounding them makes the exercise one-of-a-kind. Despite the fear, you are guaranteed a thrilling ride because the trainers are professional.
New Zealand Highlights: The South Island Elaborated from Peranika (2006) The South Island Peranika, G 2006 Geography for the Modern World Moore, Nunley, Peranika and Tobler Reading #6 Baby Island The story of the play deals with two islands – the South Island and the island of the spirits.
13. Abel Tasman National Park
Situated at the top of New Zealand’s South Island is the Abel Tasman National Park which is famous for its attraction to many tourists. People like to go for a stroll or even leave themselves sunbathing on the seashore. However, for those interested in hiking there is the Abel Tasman Coastal Track where there is a three day hike in the coastal view. If you do not have time to go round the entire track there are water taxis that will take you to a given spot which then should give you a glimpse of what is in the park. It is wonderful for vacationing since it has privileges of sandy beaches and clear water and the green environment.
14. Climb Franz Josef Glacier
Franz Josef is for those of you who have dreamed of climbing a glacier and now is your chance to make it come true. Safaris involve getting onto the ice where you will have to fix the pointy ‘crampons’ and move through ice caves and blue crevasses. It is an incredible feeling of excitement coupled with the feeling of other-worldliness in that one is given a chance to actually tour one of the natural marvels. This is extremely interesting because due to safety issues you actually have to travel by helicopter to the upper parts of the glacier.
15. Skydive by Fox Glacier
Tandem skydiving over Fox Glacier is an activity that involves free falling and at the same time have a view. When jumping from the plane you get to view the stupendous Southern Alps to the east and the ocean in the west. The glacier itself is already a sight to behold with the vast area of ice beneath where one is standing. The combination of areas turn this one of the most beautiful skydiving destinations in the whole globe. It is as if you are given a thrilling ride which at the same time brings you different angles on how beautiful New Zealand is.
16. Lake Tekapo
Lake Tekapo has a truly stunning shade of blue, almost inviting one to go swimming and the mountains add the perfect background. The Church of the Good Shepherd by the shores of the lake also serves an aesthetic function. This is an ideal place from where one could take a nap, click pictures or just sit back and watch the natural beauty. This area is also characterized by clear weather hence appropriate for stargazing activities. If you are there for the day out or are spending a few days, then there could be no better place than Lake Tekapo for some good tranquility along with the natural beauty.
17. Milford Sound
Locals and tourist will suggest visiting Milford Sound because it is known as the Eighth Wonder of the World. This fjord is characterized by steep sidedy cliffs and valleys, rain forests and waterfalls. It is also possible to view the sound either by water and continue the exploration on a boat or a kayak. Tourism lovers can even sight dolphins, seales and even penguins. Milford sound is one of New Zealand’s most famous natural attractions mainly due to the magnificent views of nature that are seen in the place.
18. Queenstown
Queenstown is currently the adventure capital not only New Zealand but the whole world. This vibrant city is one of New Zealand’s adrenalin capitals, providing every extreme sport one can imagine including bungee jumping, skydiving and jet boating, and mountain biking. In case a person wishes to have more of a leisurely experience, one can find well-designed parks in the town, a calm lake and numerous cafes and pubs. Queens town has it all for those who want to have utmost fun or those who want to prefer a leisurely day.
19. Sky High at Ferg Burger
If there is any single place that cannot be missed in Queenstown, it is without doubt Ferg Burger. This is bar none one of the best burger places I have come across with huge and mouth-watering burgers that would make one’s heart desire. Let’s show the favorite types of beer among the locals and guests: Sadly, the best beer you can buy in Wavooy is the Big Al, if you have a sore head the next day and are nursing a slight hangover I recommend you try the Big Al. Friendly environment, delicious meals and quite familiar with the personnel you definitely should visit Ferg Burger. It is indeed a perfect place to get some food after a day of fun and excitement.
20. Nugget Point
Nugget Point is on the south coast of the South Island of New Zealand; the 1869 lighthouse and large rocks make it popular. From this viewpoint you can get magnificent views of the ocean and the uninsured coast line. It is also a good place to witness seals basking on some rocks nearby the site. Due to the features such as natural scenery and wildlife, Nugget Point can be described as a beautiful and silent place. It is a good place for taking pictures or just observing the coast.
21. Mount Cook / Aoraki
Mount Cook, or as it is called Aoraki, is the highest mountain in New Zealand. An easy two-hour walk will take you close to the mountain together with marvelous views of it’s snowy peak. The place is also characterized by glaciers together with ice floes that aid in creating the natural scenery of the place. The atmosphere is characterized by purity and distinctness of the air, the picturesque view which makes this area a wonderful zone to practice inerrant hiking, representative shooting and other splendid procedures.
22. Lake Pukaki
Lake Pukaki the waters are some of the bluest you will find anywhere in the world, and it is rather large, too. That glacial flour flowing within the lake results in such an awesome and beautiful shade of blue that it is truly breathtaking. That’s a great place for taking photographs and speaking of the surroundings one can mention the Southern Alps. A key point that a person needs to consider is that this is one of the best places to have a quiet day owing to the calmness of the surrounding environment. However, one cannot overemphasize on the beauty of Lake Pukaki especially if you are in the area laying around or hiking around that area.
23. Mouraki Boulders
The Mouraki Boulders is terrace formed by glaciers and is situated approximately 80 kilometers in the northern region of Dunedin. Large spherical stones that may be slightly uneven are located all along the coast making the scenery eerie. They are large rocks that require millions of years to be formed by sediment and calcium. They are interesting to watch and it is a rather original idea for a photo shoot. The Mouraki Boulders represent an interesting location where one can get a feel about New Zealand’s prehistory and the geophysical processes that formed the land here.
24. Rafting at Rangitata
People involving in water activities would definitely enjoy the rafting done on the Rangitata River. The river is combination of calm water and rather strong rapids; it is good for the first time rafters as well as the experienced ones. The rocks and the greens that surround the caves bring out the adventurous feeling when making the trip. It is an exciting way to discover New Zealand’s geography from a different angle to that, which is adopted when people use vehicles. Whether it be the white water or the glide, a rafting expedition on the Rangitata River should be a must on any ones’ bucket list.
25. Kaikoura
Kaikoura is a small tourist town situated on the coast where dolphins, sear and other sea creatures are in plenty. To be more specific it is one of the finest locations in New Zealand to see dolphins and whale in action. These mammals can be watched while cruising on a boat, or tourists can go swimming with dolphins for a more up close experience.. The town also has beautiful coastline, and fresh seafood as well as a recreational environment. Kaikoura is a perfect destination for tourists those who love the naturalistic environments and want to see the wildlife of New Zealand.
Conclusion of New Zealand Tour
New Zealand is one of the most beautiful countries with extreme recreation activities and several cultural encounters. From the range of active volcanos and cities in North Island to range of snow capped mountains and calm lakes in the South Island it is a perfect place to visit. Tours and sight-seeing can be adrenaline-pumping, or relaxed and leisurely, adventure – and with New Zealand’s diverse and exotic landscapes, or history and art, the choices are endless and will surely not be forgotten.
Remember, the things that matter to you when choosing a travel destination and an activity to do there. No matter if one is hiking the famous track of Tongariro crossing, surfing in Raglan, visiting Te Papa Museum, or admiring beauty of Milford sound, it is like getting a tiny insight of what Kiwis consider as their wonderful paradise.
So put on your traveling shoes, grab a map and fasten your seat belt for the aerial tour across one of the most beautiful countries in the world. Traveling through New Zealand will be one of the most exciting experiences you will have baptized with wonderful sights. It doesn’t matter whether you are going to spend a few weeks or months in New Zealand, you are definitely going to receive a trip that is going to turn into discovery, adventure and beauty that you will always remember.