Milford Sound
Region: Fiordland National Park
Natural
Sheer cliffs and waterfalls create spectacular World Heritage scenery
Tourism in NZ
Explore notable sights and destinations in this country
Tourist attractions
Hobbiton Movie Set
Region: Matamata
Cultural Heritage
Recreation of 'Lord of the Rings' film location
Tongariro National Park
Region: Central North Island
Mixed Heritage
World Heritage combining active volcanoes and Māori sacred sites
Aoraki / Mount Cook
Region: Canterbury
Natural
3,724m highest peak in Southern Alps
Rotorua Geothermal Area
Region: Bay of Plenty
Natural
Tourist city where geysers and Māori culture coexist
Abel Tasman National Park
Region: Tasman
Natural
Sea kayaking paradise of golden beaches and native forest
Franz Josef Glacier
Region: West Coast
Natural
Rare valley glacier flowing to temperate rainforest
Waitomo Glowworm Caves
Region: Waikato
Natural
Limestone caves where glowworms shine like Milky Way
Queenstown
Region: Otago
Modern City
Adventure mecca for bungee and skiing
Lake Tekapo & Church of the Good Shepherd
Region: Mackenzie Basin
Natural
Photo spot also designated Dark Sky Reserve
Suggested itineraries
South Island Scenic Drive 10 Days
Duration (days): 10
Highlights: Christchurch, Mount Cook, Lake Tekapo, Wanaka, Milford Sound, Queenstown
Rental car tour of Southern Alps and fjords, enjoying wineries and hot springs.
North Island Culture & Volcano Route 7 Days
Duration (days): 7
Highlights: Auckland, Waitomo Caves, Rotorua, Lake Taupō, Tongariro Alpine Crossing, Wellington
Māori village visits and active volcano trekking for active travelers.
Queenstown Adrenaline Stay 3 Days
Duration (days): 3
Highlights: Bungee jumping, Jet boating, Winery tour
Weekend trip savoring thrills and fine dining.
Travel tips
- Power plug Type O, voltage 230V
- Strong UV; sunscreen and sunglasses essential
- Drive left; watch for livestock crossings
- Book national park huts via DOC website
- Food/plant imports require declaration; violations mean heavy fines
- Intercity buses vs domestic flights; flights often faster
- Public Wi-Fi common in major cities; rural areas SIM purchase convenient
- No tipping culture; prices as menu displayed
- Even summer mountain areas temperature drops; layered clothing safe
- GST (15%) generally included in display prices
- Free drinking water available across regions
- Year-end/New Year accommodations and domestic flights crowded; early booking essential