As the famed setting for the fabulous Lord of the Rings sequel, New Zealand is the perfect picture of ‘heavenly Middle Earth beauty.’ The destination’s deep fjords, hot water springs, cascading waterfalls, untamed wilds, dazzling glaciers, and clear beaches are just the beginning of the country’s beautiful story.
Besides the scenery, you are in for a treat if you are into gambling adventures. For instance, you could relish your favorite games at the famed SkyCity Auckland Casino or go for online action via top-notch Kiwi-facing iGaming platforms such as Mr Bet NZ. The best thing about playing online is that you can participate in the games on the go without being restricted to any location. For example, after a day of experiencing the beauty of the wondrous nation, you could wind down with a few rounds of play in your hotel room.
Back to sightseeing, you’ll find plenty of magnificent spots to visit in NZ that you can face difficulty deciding what to include in your bucket list and what to delete. But don’t worry; we have your back. This quick read attempts to sort this challenge with a comprehensive list of the country’s popular activities and must-see destinations.
Things to Do in New Zealand
Here are the most popular activities that you can delve into for an unforgettable NZ holiday.
View Hawke’s Bay’s Architecture
A massive earthquake hit Hastings and Napier in 1931. Residents later rebuilt the region in the popular architectural designs of the day. Today, the two Hawke’s Bay cities are home to some of the world’s best-preserved Spanish Mission architectural precincts and art deco. Some of these buildings are decorated with traditional Māori motifs. So, join a walking tour of the procession of Art Deco buildings for a glimpse of the rich history.
Experience the Lava Flow Hiking
New Zealanders and visitors enjoy hiking in equal measure. It gets even better if you do it in an unconventional setting like the 19-kilometer Tongariro Alpine Crossing. You’ll hike through old lava flows, emerald lakes, and even an active crater. Revel in breathtaking views of the Ruapehu region and Lake Taupo for an enriching experience!
Observe Kiwis on Stewart Island (Rakiura)
Stewart Island is also worth a visit. Rakiura National Park safeguards 85% of this diverse birdlife haven. You’ll find melodious bellbirds, lively kākā (parrots), and rare hoiho (yellow-eyed penguins). But the highlight of your visit is spotting tokoeka (Southern brown kiwi) in their natural habitat. Choose a twilight expedition with local operators to witness these iconic birds.
Kayak in the Bay of Islands
Only 3.5 hours from Auckland lies Paihia, an ideal hub to discover a marine haven of 144 stunning islands. The best way to explore the picturesque location is by kayaking through crystal waters or cruising to view dolphins. Alternatively, you can unwind on golden shores and visit the historic Waitangi Treaty Grounds.
Commune With KaikōUra’s Marine Mammals
Various whale species visit Kaikōura to feed in the nutrient-rich Kaikōura Canyon waters. This submarine valley is only 2,624 feet off the South Island’s east coast. You can dive into the adventure by joining a boat trip operated by the Ngāti Kuri iwi, a local Māori tribe. You’ll encounter visiting Southern Right, orca, humpback whales, and resident marine mammals like dolphins, whales, and fur seals or kekeno. Moreover, the region’s pelagic birdwatching is among the world’s best.
Have Fun in Wellington
Wellington City is pedestrian-friendly and compact. The city is touted as New Zealand’s harbor capital. Here, you can immerse yourself in the local craft beer culture at renowned breweries like:
- Heyday;
- Garage Project;
- Parrotdog.
Afterward, you can visit Wētā Workshop to explore the cinematic enchantment of The Hobbit and Lord of the Rings. Wellington also thrives with a dynamic arts and live music scene. The city hosts entertaining free events year-round to guarantee a well-rounded urban experience.
Relax
Very few places can match New Zealand’s easy-going allure. Take a leaf from the inhabitants’ book and delve into the rejuvenating activities and laid-back vibe. The region offers vast opportunities to enjoy downtime. For instance, you can enjoy the perfect beach retreat at The Coromandel’s Cathedral Cove. This spot provides hot pool indulgence, sun-soaked relaxation, and quirky souvenir shopping. You can also pack a picnic and revel in the beauty of Cathedral Cove along the coastal trail.
Plan Well for the Best Experience
The Land of Kiwis offers a broad spectrum of fun activities for your bucket list. However, you must prepare well to enjoy the experience to the fullest. So, plan well in advance and consider the seasons during planning. In addition, be sure to identify suitable accommodation and book in advance.