New Zealand is an amazing place to visit, full of incredible landscapes and awe-inspiring attractions. From the rugged mountains of the South Island to the golden beaches of the North Island, New Zealand has something for everyone. With so much to see and do, it can be hard to know where to start. Here are 23 popular tourist attractions in New Zealand you don’t want to miss!
Viaduct Lookout Auckland New Zealand

 

The iconic Auckland Sky Tower is a must-see for any visitor to New Zealand. At 328 metres, it’s the tallest free-standing structure in the Southern Hemisphere and provides stunning views of Auckland city and beyond.

Waiheke Island is a beautiful, relaxed island off the coast of Auckland. Head here to enjoy some of New Zealand’s best beaches, vineyards and restaurants.
The Auckland Museum is the perfect place to learn about New Zealand’s Maori culture, its colonial history and local wildlife. Don’t forget to take a look at the incredible Māori war canoe on display in the main hall.
Rotorua
Rotorua is a must-visit for any geothermal enthusiast. From the hot springs and mud pools to the spectacular geysers, Rotorua provides an unforgettable experience. Don’t forget to check out Hell’s Gate – a unique geothermal park with bubbling mud pools and steaming fumaroles.
W-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland is an incredible geothermal area located just south of Rotorua. With its vivid colours, bubbling mud pools and steaming geysers, it’s the perfect place to explore and marvel at New Zealand’s volcanic activity.
This stunning geothermal valley is located in the Whakarewarewa Thermal Reserve and is home to boiling mud pools, hot springs and active geysers. It’s also the perfect spot for a unique Maori cultural experience.
A must-see for any visitor to Zealand is a Maori cultural experience. From traditional song and dance performances to tours of sacred sites, there are plenty of opportunities to learn more about this ancient culture.
Bay of Islands
  • The Bay of Islands is an incredible part of the North Island, providing a wealth of activities from sailing and swimming to fishing and exploring. Don’t miss the towns of Russell or Paihia for some great restaurants, cafes and shops.

  • Take a boat trip around the Bay of Islands and explore the famous Hole in the Rock. This natural rock formation is an incredible sight and provides stunning views of the bay.

  • These two towns are located in the heart of the Bay of Islands and provide plenty of activities, restaurants and shops. Paihia is a great spot for swimming and snorkelling while Russell is known as the ‘jewel’ of the bay.

  • The Bay of Islands is home to a wide variety of marine life, including dolphins and whales. Take a boat trip out into the bay and experience these incredible animals up close.

Abel Tasman National Park
  • Abel Tasman National Park is a stunning coastal park located at the top of the South Island. With crystal clear waters and golden beaches, it’s the perfect spot for swimming, kayaking and exploring.

  • The Coast Track is one of the most popular walking tracks in New Zealand. It’s an easy 4-day walk along the gorgeous Abel Tasman coastline, taking in some of New Zealand’s best scenery.

  • Golden Bay is a stunning area of the South Island. With its crystal clear waters and golden beaches, it’s the perfect spot for swimming, kayaking and exploring. Don’t miss Te Waikoropupu Springs – a spectacular natural spring with some of the clearest water in the world!

  • New Zealand’s coastline is the perfect place for kayaking and beach activities. From exploring hidden coves to swimming with dolphins, there’s something for everyone!

Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park
  • Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park is a stunning alpine park located on the South Island. Explore some of New Zealand’s most spectacular scenery, with glaciers, towering peaks and incredible lakes.

  • Tasman Glacier is one of the largest glaciers in New Zealand and a must-see for any visitor. Take a scenic helicopter flight to get an up-close look at this stunning glacier.

  • New Zealand has some of the clearest night skies in the world, making it a great spot for stargazing and astronomy tours. Head to one of New Zealand’s dark sky sanctuaries, such as the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve, and marvel at the stars!

Wellington
  • Wellington is the capital of New Zealand and a great spot to explore. Take a stroll around the waterfront or sample some of the city’s delicious food and drinks. Don’t miss out on a visit to Weta Workshop for an inside look at how films are made!

  • Te Papa Tongarewa Museum is New Zealand’s national museum and a must-see for any visitor. It houses the world’s largest collection of Maori artefacts and provides an insight into New Zealand’s diverse culture and history.

  • Take a walk in the Zealandia Wildlife Sanctuary and explore New Zealand’s native wildlife. The sanctuary is home to some of the country’s rarest species, including tuatara, kiwi and takahe.

  • Take a ride on the historic Wellington Cable Car and admire the stunning views of the city. Make sure to stop by the Botanic Gardens for an insight into New Zealand’s native flora and fauna.

  • These are just some of the popular tourist attractions in New Zealand, with plenty more to explore!
Christchurch
  • Christchurch is the largest city in the South Island and a great place to visit. Explore its beautiful parks, gardens and public art displays before taking a trip out to the nearby Banks Peninsula for some stunning views of Lyttelton Harbour.

  • The Canterbury Museum is a great spot to explore the history of Christchurch and its surroundings. Don’t miss the art gallery which houses some incredible works from both local and international artists.

  • The Christchurch Botanic Gardens is a great spot to explore the city’s native flora and fauna. There are plenty of walking trails, as well as a unique glasshouse which houses some of the world’s most rare plants.

  • Take a leisurely punt to ride down the beautiful Avon River and admire the stunning views of Christchurch. The iconic punting boats are perfect for an afternoon of relaxation.

Fiordland National Park
  • Fiordland National Park is an incredible area located on the South Island of New Zealand. It’s known for its spectacular scenery, with towering peaks, lush forests and majestic fiords. Explore some of nature’s most stunning views by taking a boat trip through Milford Sound

  • Doubtful Sound is located within Fiordland National Park and is one of the most breathtaking sights in New Zealand. Take a boat trip and explore its stunning scenery, including waterfalls, towering peaks and lush forests.

  • The Kepler Track is a popular multi-day hike in Fiordland National Park. Explore some of the area’s most incredible scenery, with lush green forests and glacier-carved valleys

  • The Anau Glowworm Caves are located on the South Island of New Zealand and are a must-see. Take an underground boat tour to admire the thousands of glowworms that light up the caves!
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  • New Zealand is a country that has something to offer everyone, with plenty of incredible tourist attractions. From stargazing and astronomy tours to exploring the unique wildlife in national parks, there is no shortage of things to do in New Zealand! Make sure you take the time to explore as much as you can during your visit.
  • Before your next trip, make sure you and your family are protected with Allianz Travel Insurance. Our coverage options include accidents, illness, trip interruption, baggage loss, and more to keep you covered on your travels in New Zealand. Please note that terms and conditions apply.
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  • Go out and explore without worries because Allianz Travel is there to support you. Have a safe trip!