Top 8 Things to Do in New Zealand

Maori heritage is rich, with legends and language, traditions and gastronomy that highlight the diversity of the culture and reinforce the dynamic proportions of the landscape.

Across approximately 600 islands, the indigenous people have a deep connection with the land, sea, and natural environment. Art, history, dance, music, stories, and spiritual connection seep into the contemporary culture of New Zealand, with much to explore and appreciate.

Best Places for Maori Culture: Rotorua • Willowbank Wildlife Reserve • Bay of Islands • Abel Tasman National Park • Okains Bay

New Zealand’s food scene is a growing movement steeped in cultural tradition, local ingredients, and contemporary evolution, and you can sample it on food tours.

Maori heritage combines with European customs with a connection to homegrown produce and traditional elements. Native herbs, lush forests, fabulous gardens, and an endless selection of seafood play a role as culinary culture has shifted.

An emphasis on local ingredients has changed the gastronomic landscape to offer a new cultural zeitgeist.

Best Places for Food: Auckland • Whanganui • Nelson • Christchurch • Dunedin

New Zealand’s landscape is a breathtaking collection of fiords and glaciers, craggy mountain peaks and boiling mud pools that can be experienced in its national parks.

Protected by contemporary principles and Maori culture, the nation has 14 national parks that reach from the upper tip of the North Island to the bottom waterways of the South Island. Each has its own personality, specific story, and rich history.

The national parks across New Zealand promise something for every type of traveler, with mystic waterfalls and dazzling beaches to glassy lakes and exceptional panoramas.

Best National Parks to Visit: Rakiura • Fiordland National Park • Paparoa National Park • Mount Aspiring National Park • Abel Tasman National Park

New Zealand feels like one long stretch of fascinating landscape waiting to be explored and the Great Walks offer some fantastic hiking opportunities.

An excellent network of hiking trails strewn across diverse landscapes makes exploring the islands easy, engaging, and exciting.

Whether traveling through misted mountains or emerald fiords, along black- and white-sand beaches or ancient fern forests, the diversity of New Zealand’s scenery only enhances the breathtaking experience of a hike on any number of the country’s 585 moderate hiking trails.

Best Places for Hiking: Waitawa Walk • Taranaki Falls Trail • Tongariro Alpine Crossing • Abel Tasman Coast Track • Mount Victoria Trails

Learn more: New Zealand Hiking Tours

New Zealand is a spectacular destination for rewarding wildlife experiences and viewing, which could be among your top experiences.

Excursions into the isolated islands can give you a glimpse of rare and exciting animals that evolved far from the greater world. The most famous of these include the kiwi, yellow-eyed penguins, and whales.

Witnessing wildlife in its natural habitat is a thrilling experience and New Zealand offers the chance for encounters, versus just views, on land and sea.

Best Places for Wildlife Viewing: Oamaru • Dunedin • Kaikoura • Akaroa • Bay of Islands • Rotorua

The cities of New Zealand each have their own unique ambiance.

With a passion for art, music, comedy, coffee, local food, and regional customs, the diverse regions across the North and South islands combine contemporary culture and traditional heritage.

While nature may be the ultimate draw to New Zealand, the cities share a dynamic connection with the surrounding wilderness, from scenic coastlines to astounding mountain ranges, serene lakes to island borders, all connecting urban life with nature.

Best Cities to Visit: Auckland • Wellington • Nelson • Christchurch • Queenstown • Dunedin

Learn more: Best Places to Visit in New Zealand

New Zealand is a paradise for adventurers and thrill-seekers, and the outdoors offers an array of exciting adventures.

From kayaking to mountain biking, surfing to snowboarding, the diverse activities make the North and South islands fantastic destinations. You can sail between distant islands or ride a jet boat up a rushing river, swim with dolphins, or look for wildlife on a quad-bike safari.

The possibilities for an active adventure in New Zealand are endless, with each excursion giving you a truly authentic experience.

Best Places for Outdoor Activities: Queenstown • Auckland • Kaikoura • Bay of Islands • Fox Glacier National Park

New Zealand is a wonderland of wineries and vineyards crossing the North and South islands.

With roughly 11 main wine regions in the country divided into even greater sub-regions, you can find a stunning collection of flavors, textures, and aromas. Bright colors, expressive fruits, and an earthy grit translate the beauty of New Zealand into a glass that expresses spirit and layers of culture.

Best Places for Wine Tasting: Marlborough • Nelson • Central Otago • Hawke’s Bay • Waikato • Waiheke Island

Learn more: New Zealand Wine Tours

Whether looking for family adventure, romantic relaxation, or unique wildlife excursions, New Zealand’s diverse landscapes and activities make it the perfect place for all types of travelers.

Look deeper into the country’s wide array of adventures and beauty with our New Zealand travel guide, or explore our collection of featured New Zealand tours and vacations.