Are you looking for a destination with varied and breathtaking natural landscapes? Don’t hesitate anymore and go to New Zealand, the “Long White Cloud Country”!
For many, New Zealand is the nation of the world's best rugby team, the All Blacks But she's actually much more than that! Considered as the land of the Maori people, this country of Oceania, lost in the middle of the Pacific Ocean, has nearly 4.9 million inhabitants, and attracts more and more lovers of nature each year.
New Zealand, or Aotearoa Māori is divided into two main islands. North Island, the most populous, houses subtropical forests, green hills, volcanoes and the capital of the country, Wellington . While South Island, which is more wild, is characterized by its lost-view mountain ranges and large spaces.
Are you wondering what to do in New Zealand? We have selected for you the 25 most beautiful places to visit in the country of kiwis and sheep!
1. Northland
Photo credit: Unsplash – Steven Biak Ling
Natural treasures that are hidden in the most sunny region of the country, as its name suggests, are no longer counted. the extreme north New Zealand: Mermaids Pools , natural swimming pools of the coastal village of Matapouri, dense forest Waipoua and its giant kauris (New Zealand's endemic trees), the 88-kilometre long beach Ninety Mile Beach , the mythical Cap Reinga, at the tip of North Island, or the Bay of Islands.
2. Bay of Islands
Photo credit: Flickr – Mantas Volungevicius
It would be a shame to visit New Zealand, especially the Northland region, without passing through the beautifully named Bay of Islands . What to see and do in this paradise bay in the 144 islands? A turquoise water, fine sand coves and the possibility of swimming with dolphins.
3. Coromandel Peninsula
Photo credit: Flickr – Russianllstreet
Located less than two hours drive from Auckland, Coromandel Peninsula is a preferred destination for New Zealanders (named the kiwis), and rightly! The spectacular creek of Cathedral Cove , the natural hot baths of Hot Water Beach and, among other things, the landscapes of the Pinnacles in the Kauaeranga Valley are undoubtedly to be done in New Zealand!
4. Tongariro
Photo credit: Unsplash – Emily Woolerton
What to do in New Zealand? Visit the Tongariro National Park , a place of strong cultural and spiritual significance for Maori and classified as the UNESCO World Heritage! Walking through the 19.4 kilometers of Tongariro Alpine Crossing, the spectacular landscapes of the three volcanoes and their emerald lakes will defy before your eyes.
5. Wellington
Much less populated than Auckland, Wellington However, there is nothing to envy the big city. Located in the heart of a bay and adorned to hills, south of North Island, the capital with colourful houses is recognized for its artistic and cultural life, and its excellent quality of life.
This includes the National Museum of New Zealand, the famous Te Papa Tongarewa .
6. Rotorua
The city of Rotorua , built on a volcanic plateau, is renowned for its geothermal activity and thermal springs, its maori culture, as well as its fascinating Redwoods Forest, real playground for all lovers of sports outdoor .
It is also a starting point for Hobbiton , famous shooting place of the Lord of the Rings, and thus a mandatory passage for all fans of the trilogy.
7. Le Mont Taranaki
Photo credit: Flickr – Dave Young
What to do in New Zealand? Direction to the west coast, in the heart of Egmont National Park to admire or try the ascent of this majestic volcano which peaks at 2518 meters above sea level. Its perfectly conical shape is often compared to Mount Fuji, Japan.
8. The beachesAuckland
Photo credit: Flickr – Kathrin & Stefan Marks
Although very attractive, Auckland , the largest city in New Zealand, does not seduce all its visitors, on the other hand, the many beaches around it make unanimous! One will remember the wild beauty of the beaches Piha Muriwai, Karekare or Bethells.
9. Bay of Plenty
Photo credit: Flickr – Gérard
If you are lucky to visit New Zealand, take the time to stop in this region where fruits and vegetables, like kiwi and avocado, grow in abundance. You will be able to get high by going to Mount Maunganui, located a few kilometers from the city of Tauranga.
10. Waitomo Caves
Photo credit: Wikipedia – Donnie Ray Jones
What to do in New Zealand to experience atypical experience? We're visiting them. Waitomo Caves to attend an incredible and magical natural show, that of thousands of glow worms , or shining green, that shine in the black of these impressive caves.
11. Abel Tasman
Photo credit: Louise Voyage
Cape on South Island and Abel Tasman National Park , which bears the name of the Dutch explorer who discovered the country in 1642. The 60-kilometre hike along the beautiful coast of the park is one of the nine Great Walks in New Zealand.
12. Le Mont Cook
Photo credit: Flickr – Narni’s ahar
How to visit New Zealand without going to contemplate Mont Cook , or Aōraki Māori, its highest point (3,724 meters)? The weather seems to stop when the clouds reveal the snowy peaks of the rock and ice giants of this national park that is part of the UNESCO heritage.
13. Lake Wanaka
Photo credit: Flickr – junaidrao
How to resist this immense lake , and its famous tree, with the sumptuous mountains of Mount Aspiring National Park as a backdrop? The surroundings of the lake offer beautiful hikes like Roys Peak, whose exceptional view on arrival will make you forget the difficult climb!
14. The Fiordland
Photo credit: Flickr – Andrew Price
Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Fiordland National Park is by far one of the most spectacular places to visit in New Zealand. Would it be the mist that stagnates in its wet forest, its innumerable waterfalls, or the fjord of Milford Sound carved by glaciers that make the magic of this remote place? We let you judge for yourself...
15. Lake Tekapo and Lake Pukaki
Photo credit: Flickr – Mattia Fabris
What do you do in New Zealand to look at it? Contemplating the so special blue of lakes Pukaki and Tekapo , before finishing the day at Mount John University Observatory to enjoy a breathtaking panoramic view, and admire one of the most beautiful starry skyscrapers in the world. Just bluffing!
16. Banks Peninsula
Photo credit: Flickr – Bernard Spragg. NZ
Banks peninsula , not far from Christchurch, is the result of the eruption of two volcanoes now off. By taking the winding roads of this peninsula, covered by green hills occupied by sheep, you will find yourself in the pretty French village of Akaroa.
17. Kaikoura Peninsula
Photo credit: Unsplash – Jessica Snoek
Kaikoura , or the paradise of marine animals, is a unique place where the mountain joins the sea, not to be missed if you plan to visit New Zealand. We go there to observe the country’s marine fauna and excite in front of its incredible scenery.
18. Pancakes Rocks
Photo credit: Flickr – StarCitizen
Are you planning to visit New Zealand on a road trip? Provide a stop Punakaiki , in Paparoa National Park, to contemplate the Pancake Rocks! But what is it? The Rock Pancakes are stacked rocky layers, such as pancakes, which overlook the sea. Another beautiful creation of nature!
19. Queenstown
Photo credit: Flickr – Peter Kurdulija
Queenstown , on the shores of Lake Wakatipu, at the foot of the Remarkables mountain range, is a must-see for all adventurers, lovers of strong sensations and winter sports. If you are wondering what to do in New Zealand, you can add this destination to your list.
Take advantage of your visit to this region to stop in the old village of Arrowtown gold researchers, before taking the enchanting road to Glenorchy!
20. Arthur’s Pass
Photo credit: Flickr – Small
En route to Arthur’s Pass , this 100 000-hectare national park located in the New Zealand South Alps! If you want to visit New Zealand to explore its large spaces and take a large bowl of fresh air, you are definitely in the right place.
On your way, don't miss Castle Hill , where huge limestone blocks are erected through the hills.
21. Nelson Lakes
Change of scenery in the Nelson Lakes National Park , renowned for its two great and beautiful glacial lakes, Rotoiti and Rotoroa. This is a destination of choice when looking for what to do in New Zealand.
22. Fox and Franz Josef Glaciers
Photo credit: Flickr – Flying Kiwi Tours
Glaciers Fox and Franz Josef are also two beautiful places to visit in New Zealand. Nestled in the heart of Westland National Park, these spectacular glaciers and their blue ice caves offer a striking show.
23. The Catlins
Photo credit: Flickr – Toni Almodóvar Escuder
The region of Catlins , at the end of the world, occupies the extreme south of New Zealand, and seduces with its landscapes, its forest and its beaches, from which it is possible to observe many marine species, such as penguins.
24. Les Moeraki Boulders
Photo credit: Flickr – Bernard Spragg. NZ
Visiting New Zealand is discovering nature in all its splendor! These spherical rocks, as failed on the beach, can measure up to three meters and weigh several tons. ♪ Moeraki Boulders continue to fascinate visitors who venture into this part of the country!
25. The Marlborough Sounds
Photo credit: Instagram – tobias_werner_photography
Located in the largest wine region of the country, Marlborough Sounds are a set of hilly islands and isolated, deserted and breathtaking coves. It is accessed from Picton, which is the connecting port between the two islands of New Zealand on South Island. It is in this sumptuous setting that you can take the Queen Charlotte hike.
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