With its fascinating history, stunning natural scenery and lively cities, New Zealand offers travellers a little bit of everything. Here are five must-visit destinations to tick off the list.
The North Island
Live Like a Hobbit
Visit Hobbiton in Matamata and enjoy a guided tour of the beautifully crafted set of The Shire, which featured in The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit trilogies. Stroll through the hills, see the hobbits’ homes up close, and finish your trip with a relaxing drink at The Green Dragon Inn.
(Photo by Lucas Gruwez on Unsplash)
Visit Tamaki Maori Village
Learn all about the Maori way of life at this authentic village in Rotorua. You’ll be greeted at an ancient welcome ceremony before being able to try your hand at warrior training, the poi dance, and even the famous haka. Watch displays of weaving, wood carving and facial tattooing, and enjoy a traditional buffet called a hangi, where the food is cooked between hot stones.
Explore the Capital
Wellington’s Te Papa museum will teach you about New Zealand’s history, while the vast array of cafés, bars, and restaurants will ensure you never go hungry. Why not take a post-dinner walk to Mount Victoria Lookout and enjoy the panoramic views of the city and harbour as the sun goes down?
(Photo by Joseph Barrientos on Unsplash)
The South Island
Try The World’s First Bungee Jump
Thrill-seekers will be spoilt for choice in Queenstown, where you’ll be able to enjoy river rafting, hang gliding, paragliding, zip lining, skiing (during the winter season) and, of course, the world’s first bungee jump off Kawerau Bridge. To really get your adrenaline going, try the Nevis Bungee Jump, which is 134 metres high.
Take in the Scenery at Milford Sound
Fjords, mountains, and thundering waterfalls all lend to the atmosphere at the picturesque Milford Sound, which was once described as ‘the eighth wonder of the world’ by Rudyard Kipling. Take one of the organised boat trips to see the waterfalls and rock faces up close — you may even spot seals and dolphins swimming around.
