Whether you are planning a trip to New Zealand or you are already there, it is important that you know what to do and see. New Zealand is a country that is spread out over 268,021 square kilometers. This makes it the sixth largest island country in the world. It is made up of more than 700 smaller islands. In addition to its islands, New Zealand has two main landmasses.
Queenstown
Located on the shores of New Zealand’s beautiful Lake Wakatipu, Queenstown is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. Known as the ‘adventure capital of the world’, the city offers a wide variety of activities and sports for the whole family.
The city is home to one of the world’s most famous hikes – The Queenstown Trail. This short trek offers stunning views of the Southern Alps. It is a moderate to challenging hike that takes around two hours to complete.
Queenstown is also home to a number of other adventure sports. Some of these include bungee jumping, alpine heliskiing, and zip lining.
Wellington
Located in the north island of New Zealand, Wellington is the capital city. It is also known as the ‘Windy City’. It is a city of great contrasts. It is home to a diverse population, with four main ethnic groups: Maori, Pacific Peoples, English and European.
Wellington is one of the best cities to visit in New Zealand. It is a centre of innovation and research, and is one of New Zealand’s main seaports. Its economy is mainly service based, with a focus on finance and information technology.
Waitangi Treaty Grounds
Located on the northern tip of the North Island of New Zealand, Waitangi Treaty Grounds are one of the most significant historical sites in the country. The site is where the British Crown signed the Treaty of Waitangi with the Maori people in 1840.
Waitangi Treaty Grounds are a large National Trust Reserve. They feature native bush, mangrove forests, and wildlife filled estuary. The site is also home to Ngatokimatawhaorua, New Zealand’s largest ceremonial war canoe.
The Waitangi Treaty Grounds are also home to the Waitangi Museum, which offers a fascinating look at the history of the Treaty signing. Visitors can take a guided tour of the grounds or visit the museum on their own. In the museum visitors can learn about the history of the treaty signing and the protest movement. The museum has a wide range of exhibits, including a large number of taonga.
Bay of Islands
Located on the North Island of New Zealand, the Bay of Islands is a popular destination for many visitors. It is home to some of the most stunning beaches in the country and has plenty of activities to keep you entertained.
Visitors can explore the area’s history by visiting the Treaty of Waitangi, a historic site that was signed in 1840 between the Maori and the British. This treaty shaped New Zealand’s history.
The Bay of Islands is home to many iwi (tribes), including Ngapuhi. This area is also home to a wealth of marine wildlife including dolphins and whales. The Bay of Islands is ideal for exploring by boat or kayak.
Milford Sound
Located in New Zealand’s South Island, Milford Sound is a stunning fjord. It is one of the country’s most popular destinations for tourism. Aside from its many waterfalls, it is also a great place for fishing, kayaking, and sailing.
Aside from the many waterfalls, Milford Sound is also home to a variety of wildlife. Visitors can see blue ducks, dusky dolphins, kakapo, and penguins. It is also a great place for diving. The fjord has the largest population of black coral trees in the world.
Milford Sound is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors can learn about the history of the area at the Milford Discovery Centre. The centre has panels about the history, geology, and culture of the area.
Abel Tasman National Park
Located in the north of the South Island, Abel Tasman National Park is a stunning wilderness reserve. It’s a great destination for nature lovers, with lush green bush and secluded coves.
The Abel Tasman Coast Track is a popular hiking trail, with multiple huts, a water taxi, and campsites along the track. It’s 53 km long and takes three to five days to complete. It’s a great way to see the park, with a number of side trips that provide even more adventure.
The Tonga Island Marine Reserve, which was established along part of the Abel Tasman coast, is home to little blue penguins and New Zealand fur seals. The park also features Split Apple Rock, an awe-inspiring landmark that’s a must-see. The rock, which is between the gateway towns of Kaiteriteri and Marahau, is a hidden gem. Scientists believe the rock was split by ice wedging, which causes the water to freeze in cracks and expand.
Hawke’s Bay
Located on the east coast of the North Island of New Zealand, Hawke’s Bay is one of the country’s top places to visit. The region is famous for its sunny climate, laid-back nature, beaches, wineries, and numerous outdoor activities. The region’s coastline is protected by cliffs and coastal plains, offering safe swimming and surfing.
Hawke’s Bay is one of the world’s top wine-producing regions. The region is home to more than 200 vineyards. The region is also famous for its artisan food producers. It is also home to a world-class concentration of Art Deco architecture.