Comprised of two main islands, North Island
and South Island, New Zealand is an incredible destination to discover. Packed with unforgettable landscapes, breathtaking
scenery, and an unparalleled combination of lakes, mountains, and lush greenery, the island
nation has to be seen to be truly understood. While touring New Zealand, be sure to give
equal time to its lively cities and its more stunning natural landmarks. Here’s a look at the best places to visit
in New Zealand. Number 10. Coromandel Peninsula. This north-eastern peninsula is famous for
its white and golden sand beaches that frame magnificent coastal scenery, forests perfect
for days of exploration and other natural wonders. Start your visit in Thames, a small but picturesque
city with a rich history of gold mining. Don’t miss a stop at Hot Water Beach, where
visitors can dig their own hot pool from the springs under the sands. Number 9. Kaikoura. A picture-perfect coastal town situated a
few hours north of Christchurch, Kaikoura is famous among visitors for its marine mammals,
eco-friendly lifestyle, and its landscape that brings the country’s stunning coastline
shoulder to shoulder with its jagged mountains. Renowned for its fishing opportunities, the
town is filled with activities to keep you occupied. Spot dolphins, whales, and other exotic marine
species on a cruise or join them with a wetsuit and scuba dive amidst some of the best reefs
in New Zealand. Number 8. Glacier Country. Glacier Country is found on the Western Coast
of South Island, and its jewel is the Westland National Park. Here, you’ll have the chance to see the
country’s two most spectacular glaciers: Franz Josef Glacier and Fox Glacier. Franz Josef Glacier is one of the most accessible
glaciers on the planet, meaning that you can actually walk up to the glacier and even through
the glacier valley itself. Guided tours give you a closer look at the
expanding glaciers, and you can relax after a day of hiking by soaking in the incredible
glacier hot pools. Number 7. Napier. Feeling somewhat like a wealthy seaside town
in England, Napier is a charming place to kick back and relax, with a romantic air about
it. With lovely 1930’s facades and some delightful
streets to explore, its fantastic collection of art-deco buildings is interspersed with
some brilliant restaurants and atmospheric cafes. Napier has several gorgeous beaches nearby,
as well as a fantastic aquarium to check out. The marvelous wineries just outside of the
city are also well worth exploring. Number 6. Rotorua. Lying on the shores of the lake after which
it is named, Rotorua is renowned for its fabulous hot springs and geysers that are absolutely
everywhere. Situated at the heart of a Volcanic Zone,
the city is the North Island’s most popular tourist destination. Steam and spray constantly cloud its streets
and the scent of sulfur hangs heavy in the air. While its parks and nature reserves are home
to vents, fissures and lakes, a sizeable Maori population invigorates the town with their
art, culture and history. Number 5. Bay of Islands. The Bay of Islands is one of the most popular
holiday destinations in New Zealand. The picturesque area contains 144 islands,
many secluded bays and some great sandy beaches. This beautiful bay has an abundance of marine
life including whales, penguins, dolphins and the big marlin. Not surprisingly, it is a popular tourist
spot for sailing yachts on world cruises and international sport fishermen. Number 4. Auckland. Known as the City of Sails, Auckland is the
largest and most populated city in New Zealand. It is located on the North Island, and it
is known for its vibrant culture and foodie landscape. For amazing views of this beautiful metropolis,
climb the Auckland Harbor Bridge. If you’re interested in learning more about
the history and heritage of New Zealand, then be sure to check out the Auckland Domain,
which is the city’s oldest part. Here you’ll find great exhibits of Maori
and Pacific Island artifacts at the iconic Auckland Museum. Number 3. Queenstown. On New Zealand’s South Island is Queenstown,
a destination known as the dream spot for those in search of adrenaline and adventure. Surrounded by the towering peaks of the Southern
Alps, and right on the banks of deep-blue Lake Wakatipu, Queenstown is also an incredibly
beautiful spot. One of the best ways to experience the scenery
is on Lake Wakatipu itself. You can cycle around the lake’s perimeter
or set off on a cruise of the lake’s magnificent waters. There is also a vibrant nightlife with the
town’s small central area packed with bars and restaurants. Number 2. Tongariro National Park. The first national park of New Zealand, Tongariro
is known for its surprises and extremes. The park’s diverse range of ecosystems includes
tranquil lakes, active volcanoes, herb fields, untamed forests and desert-like plateaus. Start your trek at the Visitor Center, just
a three hour hike from the stunning Taranaki Falls. The short hike will take you through scrubland
and forest and across the lava line of volcanic eruptions from hundreds of years ago. Number 1. Fiordland. One of the most scenic spots in New Zealand
is the Fiordland National Park. Here, you can set off on incredible hikes,
fish for trout or cruise on the spectacular fjords in the south-western corner of the
South Island. Milford Sound is the biggest attraction in
Fiordland, and it is a true fjord created by a glacier. On a cruise through Milford Sound, you can
spot waterfalls, admire the sheer rock faces towering over the water and even see wildlife
like dolphins and penguins.
