The best places to visit in New Zealand

Your guide to the best places to visit in New Zealand

Auckland

Auckland is New Zealand’s largest and most cosmopolitan city, with a vibrant waterfront area, world-class dining, and a hive of cultural landmarks. The diverse neighbourhoods give Auckland a cosier feel than you might imagine. With destinations like trendsetting Ponsonby, upmarket Parnell, and laid-back Takapuna, it’s easy to find areas that suit your interests. 

In Auckland’s CBD, the Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki is a must-do itinerary inclusion. For broad city views, head to Sky Tower’s three viewing platforms – you can even jump off the Sky Tower if you’re feeling bold!

If time permits, a day trip to Waiheke Island will not disappoint, thanks to its tropical vibes, laid-back locals, and fabulous vineyards. For outdoor lovers, head to the Waitakere Ranges to hike the many trails or enjoy the wild black-sand beaches.

Wellington

As capitals go, Wellington is especially beautiful. Nestled between the glistening harbour and rolling green hills, it’s the country’s capital both politically and culturally. It’s surprisingly compact, affording you more time to explore its top attractions and sample the city’s creative culinary treats.

The Māori artefacts at Te Papa Tongarewa are worthy of your time, along with the views from Mount Victoria Lookout, a wander along bohemian Cuba Street, and attending a show at the historic St James Theatre. For oenophiles, a gourmet Martinborough wine region tour will impress.

Christchurch

Charming, picturesque, and tranquil, Christchurch is a city reborn. Alongside its heritage buildings, the city thrums with creativity, from its bold murals and boutique stores to its excitingly diverse cuisine. 

For a culturally rewarding activity, paddle a Māori waka on the Avon River. To see how pretty Christchurch is, take a gondola ride to the summit of Port Hills or soak in the beachside hot pools at He Puna Taimoana. The Riverside Market offers an eclectic mix of locally sourced casual eats or for a more unusual dining experience, tour while you eat on the Tramway restaurant. 

Christchurch also makes for a great base to reach many of the South Island’s best wildlife-spotting opportunities. 

Queenstown

With its alpine backdrop, postcard-perfect central lake, quaint boutiques and restaurants, and reputation as the Adventure Capital of the World, a trip to Queenstown holds great appeal.

Thrillseekers love Queenstown’s adrenalin-fuelled activities, like bungy jumping, jet boating, and ziplining. Nature lovers can walk or bike the scenic trails, enjoy a relaxing Lake Wakatipu cruise or try world-class skiing from June to September. 

Nearby, gold-rush communities like Arrowtown and Cromwell make for a fascinating day out, as does exploring the fabulous Otago wineries. For travellers looking for a rejuvenating break, head to the splurge-worthy Onsen or a private Hot Tub on the Hillside soak.

Dining in Queenstown can be as casual or fancy as you desire. Ferg Burger is a local institution, Balls and Bangles hits many a sweet spot, and gourmet offerings include Rātā, the Jervois Steakhouse, and the Grille by Eichardt’s.

Wanaka

While Queenstown is the life of the party, Wanaka is its mellow neighbour with countless outdoor gems to enjoy. Wanaka’s scenic hikes and Lake Wanaka watersports are top-rated activities. There’s also a higher-than-average number of delectable eateries to check out.

An underrated attraction, a cruise on Lake Wanaka to Mau Waho affords a relaxed introduction to the town’s best scenery. It’s followed by an informative 60-minute hike across Mau Waho Island Nature Reserve to its glacial lake. 

Other Wanaka must-dos include hiking to Rob Roy Glacier, kayaking on Lake Wanaka, and skiing Treble Cone, famous for its off-piste thrills. Wanaka’s range of all-ages activities makes it one of our top three family-friendly South Island destinations.

Milford Sound

Rudyard Kipling called Milford Sound the ‘8th wonder of the world', but does it live up to the hype? One hundred per cent, yes! The culmination of jagged peaks, cascading falls, and the often-misty weather create an ethereal beauty. Enhanced by marine creatures such as dolphins, seals, and penguins, this is a day trip destination worth inclusion on every itinerary. 

Driving to Milford Sound takes around four hours and the route is windy, so many visitors opt to join a coach-cruise tour rather than self-drive. To see the fjords in all their glory, why not book a coach-cruise-fly package? Enjoy both the spectacular scenery en route to Milford Sound, and an awe-inspiring flight over the area on your return to Queenstown.

Bay of Islands

Three hours north of Auckland, the subtropical Bay of Islands has more than 140 islands, spectacular marine life, and a rich maritime history. Explore the region by boat, on hikes, and with watersports like kayaking, diving, and fishing. 

A dolphin cruise is an excellent way to soak in the scenic vistas and meet the Bay of Island’s most famous residents. Learn about one of Aotearoa New Zealand’s most significant historical sites at the Waitangi Treaty Grounds.

If you have time, head to New Zealand’s northernmost point at Cape Reinga. Sandboarding thrills make it one of our top family activities across the North Island.

Rotorua

Rotorua’s geothermal activities make it one of the country’s top wellness destinations. The bubbling mud pools, steaming geysers, and therapeutic hot springs soothe and heal. Try the rejuvenating Polynesian Spa or thermal cedar hot tubs at Secret Spot. 

For activities between pampering sessions, consider the town’s adventure and outdoor activities, including Zorbing, which originated in Rotorua, canopy ziplining and the Velocity Playground.

For a more cultural endeavour, witness Māori performances and try a hangī - traditional kai (food) - at the Mitai Cultural Experience.

Rotorua has exceptional nighttime experiences, including the fairytale-like Nightlights Treet Walk and a starlight glowworm tour.

Taupo

Gateway to the awe-inspiring Huka Falls, Mt Ruapehu ski fields, and New Zealand’s best one-day walk, the Tongariro Crossing, Taupō is a gorgeous town on the shores of the country’s largest lake, Lake Taupō. 

Getting out on the water sees you experience the best of Taupō's scenery, with fishing, kayaking, and boating readily available. Choose a scenic cruise if you’d like to see the 14m-high Ngātoroirangi Mine Bay Māori rock carvings. 

Five kilometres from central Taupō, the mighty Huka Falls impresses. See the power of 220,000 litres of water per second barrelling towards you on a fun-filled jet-boating experience.

^{The information provided is general advice only. Before making any decisions please consider your own circumstances and the Product Disclosure Statement and Target Market Determinations. For copies, visit racv.com.au. Royal Automobile Club of Victoria (RACV) Ltd AR 001243563 is an authorised representative of the issuer and receives commission for each policy sold or renewed. RACV Travel Insurance issued by Tokio Marine & Nichido Fire Insurance Co., Ltd ABN 80 000 438 291 AFSL 246 548. Terms & conditions apply, refer to the PDS.}