New Zealand is a top pick with travellers all around the world. The country has paradisiacal beauty, friendly people and offers a wide array of adventurous outdoor activities. To top it all, there are accommodation options for different types of travellers – from backpackers on a shoe-string budget to top-end vacationers. The amazing beauty of the country has earned it the name of ‘God’s Zone’ and coupled with the adventurous pursuits here, the destination seems to have something for everyone. Here is our pick of the 12 best ways to experience the country.
Adventure Sports
This one tops the list! Everything seems to be designed to get you outdoors. Take your pick from different activities such as bungee jumping, zip lining, sky diving, rafting, jet boating, kayaking, sailing, diving, trekking or just cycling. The country offers it all to its guests.
Gondola Ride
Travellers visiting Christchurch should definitely ride the gondola at least once. The gondola ride begins from the Heathcote Valley floor and goes up the side of Mt Vaendish.
Bay of Islands
Travel to the Bay of Islands for a fishing experience – get a chartered fishing trip, or just laze around and surf the waves.
Wellington Botanic Gardens
The Wellington Botanic Gardens is a popular tourist spot. The garden consists of a large expanse of native forests, a rose garden and an international plant collection. There is also a landscaped area with duck pond, playground, sculptures and a café restaurant.
Rotorua
Rotorua is a must-visit attraction for its natural geothermal waters, hot geysers and sulphur mud pools. The area is also popular for cycling, zorbing, fishing and walking.
Snow Fun
The southern part of the country, particularly the region around Queensland, witnesses snow covered mountains during winters. This offers excellent opportunities for skiing.
Punakaiki National Park
Travel to the Punakaiki National Park to explore its splendid limestone rock formations and blowholes on its rugged surface.
Spot Dolphins and Whales
Many regions of the country, such as Bay of Islands, Auckland, Tauranga and Kaikoura are on the migratory route of dolphins and whales. So, these regions offer some great spots for watching these denizens of the sea in their natural habitat.
Otago Rail Trail
The rail tracks of old steam trains in the golden region of Otago can be followed to enjoy a peaceful cycling or walking trip.
Waitomo Glowworm Caves
Another must-see attraction, visit the Waitomo Glowworm caves to experience the light or ‘glow’ from glow-worms, which seems to guide your way in and out of the caves.
Wine and Dine
New Zealand dishes out some of the world’s best seafood and is home to some of the best and award-wining wineries of the world. Travellers should definitely savour the sumptuous food and wines of New Zealand.
Maori Cultural Show
Attend the Maori Cultural Show to have an understanding of the life and heritage of the native population of the country. Maori Cultural Show offers an insight into the life, history and culture of the Maori people.
