New Zealand is packed with incredible natural beauty, adventure activities, and rich Maori culture. Here’s a guide to the top things to see and do in both the North and South Islands:

North Island Highlights

Auckland
Sky Tower: Panoramic views, dining, and the SkyJump. Waiheke Island: Short ferry ride, known for beaches, wineries, and art.

Rotorua
Geothermal Wonders: Explore geysers, hot springs, and mud pools (Wai-O-Tapu, Te Puia). Maori Culture: Visit a Maori village for a traditional hangi meal and cultural performance.

Waitomo Caves
Glowworm Caves: Take a boat ride under thousands of glowing worms. Adventure Caving: Black water rafting, abseiling, and tubing.

Hobbiton (Matamata)
Visit the actual movie set from The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit.

Taupō
Huka Falls: Powerful waterfalls and jet boating. Lake Taupō: Great for fishing, boating, and hiking.

Tongariro National Park
Tongariro Alpine Crossing: Often called the best one-day hike in NZ.

Wellington
Te Papa Museum: National museum with free entry and interactive exhibits. Cable Car and Botanic Gardens: Great views and a relaxing walk.

South Island Highlights

Queenstown
Adventure Capital: Bungee jumping, skydiving, jet boating, and skiing. Scenic Cruises: Take a boat across Lake Wakatipu.

Milford Sound / Doubtful Sound
Fiordland National Park: Take a cruise or kayak tour through dramatic fjords. Helicopter Flights: Unforgettable aerial views.

Franz Josef & Fox Glaciers
Glacier Hikes: Walk or heli-hike onto the ice. Hot Pools: Relax in thermal pools after your hike.

Mount Cook / Aoraki
Hiking: Hooker Valley Track offers amazing alpine views. Stargazing: Part of a dark sky reserve — stunning night skies.

Wanaka
That Wanaka Tree: Instagram-famous lake tree. Roy’s Peak: Challenging but epic hike.

Christchurch
Re:START Mall: Trendy shops in shipping containers. Botanic Gardens & Avon River: Beautiful and peaceful city centre.

Kaikōura
Whale Watching: See sperm whales, dolphins, and seals. Seafood: Try crayfish (koura) from a roadside caravan.

Marlborough Sounds & Nelson
Wine Tasting: Especially known for Sauvignon Blanc. Queen Charlotte Track: Multi-day hike or cycle through stunning coastal scenery.

Unique Experiences

TranzAlpine Train: Scenic rail journey across the South Island.

Maori Cultural Experiences: Attend a powhiri (welcome ceremony), learn haka and history.

Thermal Spas: Try Polynesian Spa (Rotorua) or Hanmer Springs.