8 things to do when visiting New Zealand

New Zealand is a country of outstanding natural beauty, with a diverse range of landscapes that range from lush rainforests to rugged mountains and glaciers. This makes it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, who come to explore the great outdoors and experience all that this beautiful country has to offer.

 In this article, we will take a look at some of the 8 most popular tours and attractions that New Zealand has to offer.

1. Milford Sound

This is one of New Zealand’s most iconic and popular tourist destinations. It is a fjord located in the southwest of the South Island, and it is known for its stunning scenery and wildlife. Visitors can take a cruise on the sound to see the towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and playful dolphins.

2. Tongariro Alpine Crossing

This is one of the most popular hiking trails in New Zealand, and it is considered to be one of the best one-day hikes in the world. The trail passes through volcanic landscapes, alpine meadows, and offers stunning views of Mt. Tongariro, Mt. Ngauruhoe, and Mt. Ruapehu.

3. Hobbiton Movie Set

This is a must-see attraction for fans of the Lord of the Rings and Hobbit movies. The Hobbiton Movie Set is located in Matamata, and it is where the films were shot. Visitors can take a tour of the set, and see the hobbit holes, the Green Dragon Inn, and the Party Tree.

4. Rotorua

This is a popular destination for tourists interested in geothermal activity. Rotorua is known for its geysers, hot springs, and bubbling mud pools. Visitors can take a tour of the Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland, which is a geothermal park that features a variety of geysers and hot springs.

5. Bay of Islands

This is a group of 144 islands located in the far north of New Zealand. It is known for its beautiful beaches, clear waters, and marine life. Visitors can take a cruise around the islands, and see the Hole in the Rock, a natural rock formation that the boat can pass through.

6. Sky Tower

This is an iconic landmark in Auckland, and it is the tallest freestanding structure in the Southern Hemisphere. Visitors can take a lift to the observation deck, which offers stunning views of the city and the surrounding area.

7. Queenstown

This is a popular destination for adventure sports, and it is known as the adventure capital of New Zealand. Visitors can go bungee jumping, skydiving, or take a ride on the Shotover Jet, which is a high-speed boat ride through the Shotover Canyon.

8. Franz Josef Glacier

This is a 12 km long glacier located in Westland Tai Poutini National Park, on the West Coast of the South Island. Visitors can take a guided walk on the glacier, or take a helicopter tour to see the glacier from above.