10 things everyone should do in New Zealand
Travel writer Krysti Jaims runs us through 10 things everyone should do in New Zealand and why it’s one of the most incredible destinations to visit.
New Zealand is such an incredible country with countless unique experiences to be had.
It has gorgeous warm weather and white sandy beaches up north, fresh weather and beautiful snowy alps down south, and lush native rainforests, geothermal activity, glaciers, crystal-blue lakes and volcanoes in between.
It really is every travellers paradise and it took leaving New Zealand for a couple of years and exploring the rest of the world for me to realise just how amazing the country is.
I decided to write a list of 10 top experiences that are absolute must-do's in New Zealand. These are what tourists come to do in our country – because they are unique and amazing.
1. Go bungy jumping
Commercial bungy jumping first started by New Zealander A J Hackett in 1986 and it is the ultimate Kiwi adventure activity.
It may seem terrifying – and it is. But it is also incredibly exhilarating and trust me, once you jump the first time you will just want to do it again and again – it's so much fun.
2. Go adventuring in Queenstown
Speaking of adventure activities – Queenstown is the perfect destination to do all of the fun things our country has to offer in one place – it's our adventure capital.
As well as bungy jumping you can find the world's highest canyon swing, go luging, skydiving, extreme jet boating, white water rafting, paragliding, helicoptering – you name it!
Queenstown is my favourite place in New Zealand, being surrounded by the Southern Alps it is incredibly picturesque – that alone is reason enough to go there even without all of the fun things to do there!
3. Discover the Waitomo Caves
The Waitomo Glowworm Caves in Waikato is a natural highlight of New Zealand and a must-see for any New Zealander and traveller alike.
The glow worm is unique to our country and thousands of these tiny creatures radiate their luminescent light over the roof of the caves as you sail silently below on the world-famous boat ride. Learn all about them from the guides and the fascinating geology of the ancient caves. It's a mystical experience and one worth ticking off the list!
4. Go on a Lord of the Rings tour
If you are a fan then don't miss out on the many Lord of the Rings tours and places to visit dotted all over the country. My number one recommendation would be to visit Hobbiton in Matamata. It's an incredible tour for all ages and even my husband (who isn't a fan) enjoyed himself when I dragged him along.
The farm is immaculately kept, you learn a lot of interesting information about the filming and even finish up at the Green Dragon pub for a hobbity ale or cider.
Wellington - home to Sir Peter Jackson and where the movies were filmed offers many iconic movie location spots, tours and the Weta Cave to visit.
5. Trek the Tongariro Crossing
One of the most popular day hikes in the country – the Tongariro Alpine Crossing is a spectacular 19.4-kilometre day trek that crosses stark and remarkable volcanic terrain.
It is New Zealand's oldest national park and a dual World Heritage Site.
As well as seeing the awe-inspiring dramatic natural scenery and unique landforms - be rewarded at the top by the stunning emerald crater lakes.
Lord of the Rings fans would know this area to be 'Mount Doom'.
6. Cruise through Milford Sound
Milford Sound is an absolute gem of the South Island in Fiordland National Park (another World Heritage Site). The remarkable natural environment features dramatic fiords, spectacular waterfalls and snow-capped peaks of stunning mountainous terrain.
Not far from Queenstown or Te Anau, enjoy an afternoon cruise or even sleep under the stars for an unforgettable boat ride.
7. Go wine tasting
If you are a fellow wine-lover then you'll know that we are so very fortunate to live in a country where our wines have an excellent reputation. New Zealand's climate is perfect for wine-growing and we produce very delicious and internationally acclaimed wines including Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc.
While living overseas and among foreign friends, it is very interesting just how many (all of them) will choose a New Zealand wine if it's on the menu, as they already know it's going to be good.
With many stunning wineries and vineyards all throughout the country why not work your way through all of them? (Over time!) Some of our top places to visit to sample the delights include Waiheke Island, Hawkes Bay, Martinborough, Blenheim and Marlborough.
8. Explore geothermal phenomena
Geysers, hot springs, boiling mud pools and huge volcanic craters are the backdrop in Rotorua and Taupo, where nature's forces escape by bubbling, steaming and hissing from the inner earth.
Indulge in a thermal pool spa therapy or take a walking tour to discover the sights and wonders of this mysterious place that sits squarely on the Pacific Ring of Fire.
With more than 1200 geothermal phenomena in the region, the volcanic zone has drawn visitors since the 1800's and became the birthplace of New Zealand tourism.
9. Enjoy the world class snow
New Zealand is blessed to have not only beautiful sandy beaches, but also world-class snowy mountains. Take your pick from the two ski fields on Mount Ruapehu in the North Island, or from numerous options in the South Island with Canterbury, Mount Cook and Queenstown all on offer.
Whichever you choose, each place offers picture-perfect views at every turn, alpine peaks and resort towns packed with Kiwi hospitality.
10. Whale-watch in Kaikoura
The picturesque coastal town of Kaikoura is a two-hour drive north of Christchurch and one of the only places in the world where you can see magnificent sperm whales.
Meet these creatures up close and personal on a boat tour where you'll also be surrounded by friendly dolphins and fur seals, with the beautiful backdrop of mountains that meet the sea.
Written by Krysti Jaims. First appeared on Stuff.co.nz.
Have you arranged your travel insurance yet? Tailor your cover to your needs and save money by not paying for things you don’t need. To arrange a quote, click here. For more information about Over60 Travel Insurance, call 1800 622 966.