What are the things to do in New Zealand?

New Zealand is a remote island country situated off the southwest coast of Australia. Home to pristine landscapes, lush greenery, adventurous roads, and magical clouds, New Zealand feels like a majestic painting coming to life straight from a canvas. From the hot springs to mud pools to exploring the rare flora and fauna to intricately detailed monuments, New Zealand is a perfect vacation place, regardless of whether you are traveling solo, with your friends, or with your family. Each and every part of New Zealand must be experienced by a person, or else the words described about its beauty will not do justice at all. However, just to give you a glimpse of what it actually feels like to be in New Zealand, along with the 10 best things that you can do while being in New Zealand, you can have a look at the information that is mentioned on this page. Let's kick off. 

Itemize the 10 popular adventurous things for your next trip to New Zealand  

A trip to New Zealand brings plenty of opportunities for you, and most of the time, you might get confused about what you should do on your trip. If you are also facing a similar situation, then we have handpicked the ten best things that you can do in New Zealand: 

Explore the Nelson Lakes National Park 

Mesmerizing alpine trees, dramatic green backdrops, jaw-dropping mountain ranges, and the dreamy glacial lakes make the Nelson Lakes National Park a must when you are on the journey to explore New Zealand. It is located in the north of New Zealand's South Island. It spans 102,000 hectares and was established in 1956. Known for several glacial lakes, but two of them are quite famous, called Rotorua and Rotoiti. The beauty of these lakes increases manifoldly, as they are situated around serene mountains and forests, offering an amazing view to visitors. After visiting Nelson Lake National Park, you can also move ahead to the adjacent village of St. Arnaud to get acquainted with village life. 

• Best time to visit: From January to April is considered the optimal time to explore Nelson Lakes National Park. 
• Things to do: Do canyoning, hop on a water taxi, go trekking & hiking, take a stroll to the shore, and gaze at the native birds. 
• How to reach: The best way to get here is by public bus, private car, or campervan. 

Jump from the New Zealand's highest Bungy Jump in Queenstown 

If jumping from a great height gives you an adrenaline rush, you are going to fall in love with New Zealand. As this place has some amazing places from where you can jump, Nevis Bungy is one of them. The total height from which you'll jump is around 134 m, and it is located in the Nevis River valley near Queenstown on New Zealand's South Island. The charges for this activity may be around USD 395. This includes the photo, video, return transport, and an 8.5-second bungy jump. If you are thinking of traveling here with a child, the child's minimum age must be 13, and they must be accompanied by an adult. The minimum weight of a person must be 45 kg, and the maximum allowed weight should be 127 kg. 

• Best time to visit: December through February is considered the best time to jump from the Nevis Bungy. 
• Things to do: Admire the breathtaking surroundings, record the bungee jumping, and click pictures. 
• How to reach: It is located on private land in Queenstown; hence, hopping on a bungy bus is recommended to reach Nevis Bungy. 

Wine tasting on Waiheke 

The trip to New Zealand is not complete until you take a sip of the wine in Waiheke. This includes a visit to three exceptional vineyards on Waiheke Island. With the awe-inspiring views, you are going to indulge in the amazing aroma of the wine, a feast for your taste buds. The views of the vineyards will leave you speechless and will leave a long-lasting impression on your mind.  The price for the wine tasting trip will be around USD 165 per person. A traveler aged 18 or older is encouraged to attend the wine tasting. Apart from tasting the wine, you can also indulge in New Zealand's delectable delicacies, though this might cost a fee. 

• Best time to visit: To taste the wine, go in summer and autumn (from November to April) for the best wine. 
• Things to do: Enjoy the amazing ambiance, explore the vineyards, understand the story behind the wine-making process, and finally taste the authentic premium quality wines. 
• How to reach: You can reach Waiheke's Island by taking a ferry ride from downtown Auckland, which takes around 40 minutes. 

Catch a glimpse of the waterfalls in Catlins 

Every step you take in New Zealand is enough to discover nature's hidden marvels. Moreover, for the nature lover, Catlins is a haven. It is filled with waterfalls that captivate travelers' eyes. Some of the waterfalls that are the prime spots for these are the twin Matai & Horseshoe, Purakaunui Falls, McLean Falls, and more. The Purakaunui Falls are 20 meters high and have three levels, offering a peaceful sight as if you were watching a magic show. Near this fall, Matai Falls and Horseshoe Falls can also be spotted. The forest feels like you have traveled back in time, leaving the urban chaos behind. 

• Best time to visit: November to April. 
• Things to do: Take a walk to the spectacular falls, admire the rainforests, and capture the amazing sights in your camera. 
• How to reach: No public transport is accessible for this route. So, it is advised to take a car. You need to drive along State Highway 92, which connects you to Balclutha and Invercargill. 

Spot the glow worms in the Waitomo caves 

Another activity that must be on your to-do list is visiting the Waitomo Caves. This one trip will blow your mind when you see the worms illuminated in the dark. This phenomenon takes place because of a native species called Arachnocampa luminosa. It will give the illusion that you are watching the stars in the sky. With a 45-minute guide, the boat will take you on a ride through a natural area with a history of around 130 years in New Zealand. There are specific prices for adults, children, and families. 

• Best time to visit: From September to November and March to May. 
• Things to do: Enjoy the glowing caves, ride on the boat, and cherish the history of these native species. 
• How to reach: You can reach here by car; it is located at 39 Waitomo Village Road, around 2.5 hours from Auckland and 1 hour from Hamilton. 

Stay in the Muller Hut for one night 

Seeking something distinctive from what other places offer, then from the time that you are spending in the hotel room, you should spend one night in the Muller Hut. This is one of the surreal experiences you will witness once in a lifetime. It might not be beginner-friendly, as you need to hike to reach the Müller Hut. It is a beautiful hut mainly found in Mount Cook National Park. Situated at 1,800 m, the Muller Hut offers a different travel experience depending on when you visit. 

• Best time to visit: From December to April, when the days are pleasant and the nights are clear. 
• Things to do: Camp, enjoy the stars with the naked eye, and hike to the Muller Hut. 
• How to reach: You need to reach Mt Cook National Park first, then hike around 5 km of the terrain. 

Induge into the Sea Life in Kaikoura 

Kaikoura is home to marine animals such as whales, dolphins, seals, and more. Situated in a coastal town in New Zealand, welcomes several tourists from different parts of the world. To get the best view of these marine animals, booking a boat will be ideal. Based on the time when you are visiting there, you might be able to see the sea birds that are famous among bird lovers. The delightful sights and the cool breeze will immediately bring a smile to your face. For the children, this place is a must-see. 

• Best time to visit: From November to March, favorable for spotting marine animals. 
• Things to do: Hop on the boat, see the dolphins, seals, and whales, and enjoy the seafood. 
• How to reach: Around 2.5 hours drive from Christchurch, or reach by train. 

Savor the Hell's Gate Geothermal Reserve and Mud Spa 

Recently, a renewed appreciation for mud spas has emerged, especially among travelers to New Zealand. As you are well aware, the mud has significant healing properties. People come here to relax and rejuvenate after completing their exploration. In this, your body will be covered in a nutrient-rich mixture of mud and water. They even add a power rooted in New Zealand that has endured for more than 800 years, providing amazing results to its people. The active geothermal reserves enhance healing and ease any inflammation in your body. 

• Best time to visit: From June to August, when the weather is a bit cooler. 
• Things to do: Relax and take a mud bath; enjoy the moment while walking through the steamy vents. 
• How to reach: It is 5 minutes from the Rotorua Airport, 15-20 minutes by bus from the bus station, and around 15-20 minutes' drive from the center of Rotorua. 

Go to the Sky Tower  

The Sky Tower in Auckland, New Zealand, is a fantastic place from where you can see the whole city. It is around 328 meters above street level; hence, you get a panoramic view of around 80 km in all directions, which is one of its kind. From the Sky Tower, several important landmarks can be spotted with utmost ease. The tower has Orbit 360 degrees, a revolving dining area that keeps rotating, offering a unique and memorable experience for you. Also, The Lookout and SkyBar are two other observation decks where you can enjoy a variety of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. 

• Best time to visit: From December to March and September to November to see the sunset; you must arrive an hour before the sun goes down. 
• Things to do: Dine in the restaurant, take a stroll on the skywalk, and capture the sunset on your mobile.  
• How to reach: Arrive at the Sky Tower by City Link bus or by car. 

Spend time in the Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa 

The national museum of New Zealand is Te Papa Tongarewa, which is located at 55 Cable Street, Te Aro, Wellington, New Zealand. The museum consists of more than two million objects from various fields, including natural history, matauranga Māori, and the arts. The exhibition at the museum keeps changing, showcasing the diversity in the artwork. For a closer view of these artworks, the guided tours are necessary. Apart from these, you can also explore sculptures and moving objects.

• Best time to visit: The museum is open every day from 10 AM to 6 PM, except on Christmas Day, so you can choose a time that suits you. 
• Things to do: Understand the country's history and culture. 
• How to reach: It is around a 20-minute walk from the Wellington Railway Station, by bus to Courtenay Place and Willis Street, or by car.​​​​

Conclusion 

New Zealand is a charming country that is loved by true wanderers. From the coastal views to the breathtaking cave experiences to biking excursions, New Zealand is nestled in nature's lap and is ideal for an amazing trip you will cherish forever. The geothermal springs, mud spa, staying in the Muller Hut, or watching the marine animals, you can do a lot of things based on your preferences in New Zealand. Take notes on the lines above and plan your itinerary. 

Frequently Asked Questions  

Q1. Can I spot marine animals in Kaikoura? 

Ans: Whether you spot a marine animal in Kaikoura depends on when you plan to travel. 

Q2. Can I take pictures of the glowworms in the Waitomo Caves? 

Ans: You might be able to take pictures of the glowworms in the Waitomo Caves, depending on the tour you have booked. Moreover, flash photography is not allowed as it might disturb the glowworms. 

Q3. What is the appropriate time to go to the Sky Tower to see the sunset? 

Ans: It is recommended to arrive at least one hour before sunset so you can find a place to watch it, as the area gets crowded quickly. 

Q4. Can a 12-year-old child jump from New Zealand's highest Bungy Jump in Queenstown? 

Ans: No, a 12-year-old child is not allowed to jump from New Zealand's highest Bungy Jump in Queenstown. For this, the minimum age must be 13. 

Q5. What is the optimal age for tasting wine on Waiheke? 

Ans: The optimal age to taste wine on Waiheke is 18.