New Zealand Must-Do's

Discover the magical marine environment of the Poor Knights

It’s a pretty big accolade to have a renowned marine expert rate a dive site as one of the top ten in the world. But Jacques Cousteau picked the Poor Knights. Read the story . . .

Te Paki sand dunes: seriously steep, seriously fun

As if the breathtaking glory of Ninety Mile Beach wasn’t enough, right at the northern end, near the Te Paki Stream, are some seriously steep and seriously fun sand dunes. Read the story . . .

Bay of Islands: history, scenery and marine life

Marvel at pods of wild dolphins, migratory orca, seals and blue penguins in the pristine big blue yonder. Read the story . . .

Climb Whangārei Heads' steep and seriously scenic Mount Manaia

Mount Manaia towers over Whangārei Harbour in a cluster of majestic craggy peaks, irresistible to anyone who appreciates a dramatic view. Read the story . . .

Waitangi Treaty Grounds and the Museum of Waitangi

Waitangi has a perfect mix of experiences – you can drown yourself in the historical aspects, and you can wow yourself with the amazing view. Read the story . . .

Take a walk and a dip at Whangārei Falls

Just ten minutes from Whangārei City, Otuihau Whangārei Falls is both easily accessible and classically beautiful. Read the story . . .

Book accommodation for your holiday

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Get on the road with GO rentals

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Kororipo Heritage Park: embrace nineteenth-century Aotearoa

Embrace nineteenth-century New Zealand and discover the place where Māori and Europeans first lived side by side. Read the story . . .

Tāne Mahuta: lord of the forest

Northland's famous kauri, Tāne Mahuta may be up to 2500 years old which is really getting on, even in tree years. Read the story . . .

Cape Rēinga: where two oceans meet

Witness the majestic power of nature as the mighty Pacific Ocean and Tasman Sea collide. Read the story . . .

Hokianga Harbour: the most laid-back harbour hub imaginable

Relax and rejuvenate in the most laid-back harbour hub imaginable. Read the story . . .

Auckland Region

Indulge in food and fun at Auckland’s markets

Whether you’re in the heart of the city or exploring the outskirts for a weekend, the Auckland region has a selection of excellent markets to visit. Read the story . . .

Bike around Auckland City’s curvaceous coastline

Cycling Auckland’s waterfront makes for a flat, entertaining and family-friendly ride. Read the story . . .

Kayak to Rangitoto Island at sunset

Paddling your own sea kayak across the Waitemata Harbour is a magical experience at any time of day, but how about upping the ante and doing it on dusk. Read the story . . .

Visit the islands of the Hauraki Gulf

In the Hauraki Gulf there are an abundance of intriguing, easily accessible islands to explore, right on Auckland City’s doorstep. Read the story . . .

Matakana Coast: markets, beaches and vineyards

Immerse yourself in a heady mix of arts, artisanal markets, boutique vineyards, olive groves, beautiful beaches and endless rolling hills. Read the story . . .

Walking

Tackle the Te Henga Walkway

It has the signature surf, the scorching iron sand, but some of the main highlights at Te Henga are the vantage points to be had from the clifftop walkway. Read the story . . .

Indulgence

Waiheke Island: a self-contained bubble of pure pleasure

Feel a world away, retreat into lazy days and drift from vineyards to olive groves to beaches on Waiheke. Read the story . . .

Climb Rangitoto: Auckland's most iconic volcano

Summit the city's youngest, largest and most iconic volcano. Read the story . . .

Coromandel Region

Discover the hidden lagoon on sacred Donut Island

Visit Whenuakura Wildlife Sanctuary or Donut Island – a sacred spot with a hidden lagoon just off the coast of Whangamatā. Read the story . . .

Ride the Hauraki Rail Trail through the stunning Karangahake Gorge

One of the easiest Great Rides, the Hauraki Rail Trail, is a gentle cycle through New Zealand’s gold mining history. Read the story . . .

Family fun

The Waterworks: wet and wonderful

A whole lot of Kiwi ‘number 8 wire’ thinking has gone into creating The Waterworks in Coromandel. Read the story . . .

New Chum Beach: idyllic sandy seclusion

Walk through native nīkau and pōhutukawa forest to idyllic, sandy seclusion on the Coromandel Coast. Read the story . . .

Driving Creek Railway: a unique railway experience

Zig zag through lush native bush on New Zealand's only narrow-gauge railway. Read the story . . .

Visit Cathedral Cove, The Coromandel's star attraction

A beach that you can only get to by foot or by sea is a little bit special. Cathedral Cove is one of those beaches. Read the story . . .

Hot Water Beach: BYO spade

Just beneath the surface of the sand is a delicious, natural underground river that brings hot water to the beach almost on tap, so to speak. Read the story . . .

Soak it up at The Lost Spring

A geothermal oasis in the heart of Whitianga, The Lost Spring is an ideal setting for indulgence. Read the story . . .

Bay of Plenty Region

Visit New Zealand’s most-loved beach, Ōhope Beach

It's a pretty big achievement to be rated the best bit of 14,000km of coastline, but Ōhope managed to take the crown. Read the story . . .

Mauao Mount Maunganui: the view worth the climb

Savour the view from the summit or revel in the glorious beaches around the base track of this sacred maunga. Read the story . . .

Waikato Region

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Get outdoors > Walking > Free things to do > Summer Must-Do's

Admire the magnificent Blue Spring at Te Waihou Walkway

Set in the heart of South Waikato, the Blue Spring is a source of water so clear and pure it supplies around 60% of New Zealand’s bottled water. Read the story . . .

Food and drink > Summer Must-Do's

Find zen at Zealong Tea Estate

Slow down and enjoy the ancient rituals of a tea ceremony at Zealong Tea Estate in Waikato. Read the story . . .

Activities > Get outdoors > Must-Do's

Surfing in Raglan: surfing mecca

Catch gentle waves at Ngārunui Beach or ride the long, glassy left-hand breaks that make this spot the surfing mecca it is. Read the story . . .

Waitomo Glowworm Caves: a cave aglow with lights

Glide along the Waitomo River under a magical, breathtaking canopy of thousands of glowworms. Read the story . . .

Hamilton Gardens: beautifully curated spaces inspired by the world

Stroll through native woodland and gardens of the world within the beautifully curated spaces inspired by Europe, India and Asia at Hamilton Gardens. Read the story . . .

Book your campervan holiday

AA Members can get 10% off the best daily price on maui, Britz and Mighty campervans. More . . .

Hit the road with Hertz

AA Members can get an 15% off the best base rate on New Zealand rentals. More . . .

Rotorua Region

Indulgence

Spas and relaxation: natural hot springs in Rotorua

Soak in naturally heated mineral pools while you look out over the lake, take a twilight mud bath, or bathe under a waterfall in a natural hot spring. Read the story . . .

Climb Mount Tarawera

Despite its destructive history, Mount Tarawera today is a sleeping giant. Read the story . . .

Experience the world's youngest geothermal system at Waimangu Volcanic Valley

Take a walk through Rotorua’s Waimangu Volcanic Valley and learn about how the world began. Read the story . . .

Get a whole new perspective of ancient forest in Rotorua

Whether you’re clipped to a zipline, bouncing across a swing bridge or strolling along a 50-metre-high walkway, you’ll get a whole new perspective on native bush in Rotorua. Read the story . . .

Pōhutu Geyser: the largest geyser in the southern hemisphere

Feel the raw energy and explosive power of the largest geyser in the southern hemisphere at Te Whakarewarewa, a living thermal Māori village. Read the story . . .

Take to the mountain bike trails in Whakarewarewa Forest

The Whakarewarewa Forest, aka ‘The Redwoods,’ is 5500 hectares of magnificent native and exotic trees on the outskirts of Rotorua City. Read the story . . .

The Redwoods: 5,500 hectares of glorious trees

Breathe in the fresh woody air of Whakarewarewa Forest as you explore the biking, walking or horse-riding trails or traverse the canopy of these mighty Californian coastal redwood trees. Read the story . . .

Wai-O-Tapu: thermal wonderland

Experience a remarkably diverse geothermal amphitheatre thousands of years in the making. Read the story . . .

Central North Island

Skydive over Taupō: the skydiving capital of the world

See the largest commercial drop zone in the world from the angle you're really meant to... Read the story . . .

Huka Falls: New Zealand’s most visited – and photographed – natural attraction

Witness thousands of litres of water squeezing and surging through a 15-metre rocky gorge into heart-stirring rapids and a waterfall you'll be hard-pressed not to photograph. Read the story . . .

Go fishing at Huka Prawn Park

On the banks of the Waikato River, just north of Lake Taupō, you’ll find the unique attraction of Huka Prawn Park. Read the story . . .

Trout fishing: some of the best fly fishing in the world

Experience fishing at its very best in the wide, swift-flowing Tongariro River. Read the story . . .

Enjoy an easy alpine walk on the Waitonga Falls Track

At 39 metres, Waitonga Falls is Tongariro National Park’s highest waterfall. Read the story . . .

Ōrakei Kōrako: the painted place

The name Ōrakei Kōrako means something along the lines of ‘painted place’ in Māori and it’s easy to see why. Read the story . . .

Bridge to Nowhere: stunning walking in the Whanganui National Park

Reach the enigmatic Bridge to Nowhere via the Kaiwhakauka Track or navigating the Whanganui River to the Mangapūrua Landing. Read the story . . .

Tongariro Alpine Crossing: one of the best one-day hikes in the world

Walk through this World Heritage Area of volcanic giants, sheer beauty and alpine lakes to make memories you will treasure forever. Read the story . . .

Ride through history on the Ohakune Old Coach Road

Take an easy ride along a historic road that winds through native forest in Ruapehu. Read the story . . .

Things to do

Timber Trail: cycle in the footsteps of early loggers

Ride through ancient podocarp forest, over some of New Zealand's longest and highest suspension bridges and along an old bush tramway following the hard-fought footsteps of early loggers. Read the story . . .

Explore hidden glowworm caves in Manawatū

Venture off the beaten track in northern Manawatū to discover the soaring caves at Limestone Creek Reserve. Read the story . . .

Get active in Te Āpiti – Manawatū Gorge

While now closed to vehicles, the Manawatū Gorge is busy with birdlife, bikers and people enjoying the native bush. Read the story . . .

Paloma Gardens: landscapes like no other

Take a botanical trip around the world at Paloma Gardens in Whanganui. Read the story . . .

Take a journey on the Whanganui River

The river – Te Awa o Whanganui – forms the heart and history of Whanganui. Read the story . . .

Taranaki Region

Must-Do's

Len Lye Centre: a remarkable building for a remarkable artist

Celebrate Modernist filmmaker, sculptor, painter and poet Len Lye in this striking single-artist gallery in New Plymouth's art and cultural precinct. Read the story . . .

Catch a break on Taranaki's Surf Highway 45

Generations of adventurous surfers have made the pilgrimage along Taranaki’s coastline in search of the perfect wave. Take their lead this summer on Surf Highway 45. Read the story . . .

Explore fairytale forests, waterfalls and mountains in Taranaki

Egmont National Park with its iconic cone of Mount Taranaki is home to hundreds of kilometres of walking and tramping tracks, from gentle day walks to more challenging tramps. Read the story . . .

Take a trip back in time on the Forgotten World Highway

It’s rugged, rural and remote, but despite its name, you’ll definitely remember the Forgotten World Highway. Read the story . . .

New Plymouth's Coastal Walkway

The Coastal Walkway is a 12km journey to add to your own journey, a promenade par excellence that hugs the sea and grabs your senses all way along the New Plymouth coastline. Read the story . . .

The Goblin Forest: lush and fantastical forest

In the Goblin Forest, twisted kāmahi trunks lead the way through one of New Zealand's most epic, lush and fantastical natural spaces. Read the story . . .

Hawke's Bay Region

Get spooked at Napier Prison, New Zealand's oldest penitentiary

Set on suburban Bluff Hill, Napier Prison housed dangerous and violent criminals for more than 150 years. Read the story . . .

Imbibe your way around the Hawke’s Bay wine trails

The oldest wine region in New Zealand, Hawke’s Bay is rightly renowned for its tantalising tipples. Read the story . . .

Take in the views from Te Mata Peak

On a clear day you can see the whole of Hawke’s Bay from the top of Te Mata Peak. That alone is worth the climb. Read the story . . .

Cape Kidnappers’ Gannet Colony: the exhilarating sight of 20,000 gannets

Traverse beautiful coastline, riverbeds, rolling pastures and native bush before taking in panoramic views and experiencing the exhilarating sight and sound of 20,000 gannets. Read the story . . .

Eastland Region

Be the first to see the sunrise at East Cape Lighthouse

There’s something a bit special about watching the sunrise. It’s even more special if you’re one of the first people in the world to see it. Read the story . . .

Hand-feed wild stingrays in Gisborne

At Tatapōuri, just 10 minutes north of Gisborne, you can get up close with the children of Tangaroa, the Māori god of the sea. Read the story . . .

Lake Waikaremoana: a Great Walk

Lake Waikaremoana is one of New Zealand’s Great Walks, set in the heart of Te Urewera, the largest area of untouched bush in the North Island. Read the story . . .

Pacific Coast Highway: the long way round

Lap up over 300 kilometres of pure road trip paradise from Ōpōtiki to Gisborne. Read the story . . .

Wairarapa Region

Cape Palliser: the wild southern tip of the North Island

Climb the steps of Cape Palliser lighthouse and immerse yourself in the rugged charm of the southernmost tip of the North Island. Read the story . . .

Discover the ‘badlands erosion’ of Putangirua Pinnacles

Ancient gravels and millions of years of erosion have created one of New Zealand’s most spectacular geological sites at the Putangirua Pinnacles. Read the story . . .

Castlepoint Scenic Reserve: the views, the views, the views

Castlepoint has long, languorous beaches, exquisite sunrises, sheltered lagoons and fossil-rich reefs... and of course the prettiest lighthouse. Read the story . . .

Cycle the vines in Martinborough

Flat country roads make the perfect terrain for easy cycling in between vineyards – no lycra required! Read the story . . .

Pūkaha Mount Bruce National Wildlife Centre: all that’s great and native in the avian category

Climb to the summit of Te Arapiki o Tawhaki for impressive views and experience New Zealand as it used to be on the way with wild kākā, kōkako, stichbird, takahē, kākāriki and ancient tuatara. Read the story . . .

Ride the remarkable Remutaka Cycle Trail

Beginning at Petone at the head of Wellington Harbour, the Remutaka Cycle Trail encompasses all the best bits of the Wellington and Wairarapa landscapes. Read the story . . .

Wellington Region

Walking

Complete the Wellington Craft Beer Capital Trail

With more malts, hops and mash than you can shake a stick at, Wellington is undeniably the capital city of craft beer. Read the story . . .

Explore wild and windy coastline on the Mākara Walkway

Take in vast views past wind turbines and up to Kāpiti and Mana Islands on this coastal walk just outside Wellington City. Read the story . . .

Kāpiti Island Nature Reserve: an accessible island sanctuary

Reckon on a kākā landing on your shoulder or a weka scurrying over your feet, all to the calls of kākāriki, bellbird, robin and saddleback. Read the story . . .

Te Papa Tongarewa: Museum of New Zealand

Explore this waharoa to our natural and cultural heritage, home to three rugby fields' worth of beautifully crafted space, untold treasures and fascinating stories. Read the story . . .

Zealandia: the world’s first fully-fenced urban ecosanctuary

Explore the world’s first fully-fenced urban ecosanctuary, with more than 30 kilometres of walking tracks and ample opportunities to spot tuatara, kiwi, hihi, saddleback and tūī. Read the story . . .

The Beehive and Parliament Buildings: the heart of Aotearoa's Government

Get to the nub of it at all and join a free guided tour into the heart of New Zealand’s Government at the Beehive in the parliamentary precinct. Read the story . . .

Book your journey aboard the Interislander

AA Members can save 10% off the best available fare on the Interislander. More . . .

See more of Aotearoa on a Great Journeys of NZ train

AA Members can save 10% on the best available fare on Great Journeys of New Zealand™ TranzAlpine train service. More . . .

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Activities > Get outdoors > Free things to do > Summer Must-Do's

Experience the sea as it’s meant to be at a marine reserve

New Zealand’s marine reserves and protected areas offer visitors a unique opportunity to see fish and marine life, thriving and abundant in their natural environment. Read the story . . .

Food and drink > Summer Must-Do's

Pick your own fruit

Make the most of the season’s bounty by picking your own selection of berries and summer fruits. Read the story . . .

Road trips > Activities > Get outdoors > Must-Do's

Campervanning: the spontaneous way to travel

If the idea of a guided tour brings you out in spots, you’ll be wanting to bring yourself to the spots you most want to see. Read the story . . .

Marlborough Region

Take in the spectacular beauty of the Cook Strait crossing

Enjoy the 70-kilometre rite of passage for any Kiwi through the Roaring Forties and one of the world’s most unpredictable stretches of water to the spectacular beauty of the Marlborough Sounds. Read the story . . .

Discover Captain James Cook’s favourite New Zealand base, Ship Cove

Set on the outskirts of the Marlborough Sounds, Ship Cove Meretoto was a favourite anchorage of Captain James Cook and remains popular with boaties today. Read the story . . .

Family fun

Discover the history of combat aircraft at Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre

Originally established by a small group of passionate aviation enthusiasts, Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre in Blenheim has grown to become a site of national significance. Read the story . . .

Get a bird’s-eye view of Picton from the Tirohanga Track

While the Marlborough Sounds are spoilt for scenic spots and great views, one of the best and most accessible viewpoints is at the top of the Tirohanga Track in Picton. Read the story . . .

Pelorus Bridge Scenic Reserve: enchanting rocky gorge

Explore this enchanted, rocky gorge, an easy drive between Blenheim and Nelson, with its crystal clear river and towering, ancient forests. Read the story . . .

Queen Charlotte Track: camp, bike, walk... if you can tear your eyes away from the views

Walk or bike between Queen Charlotte and Keneperu sounds in this slice of paradise. Read the story . . .

Nelson Region

Anapai Bay: welcome to paradise

Anapai Bay is one of the loveliest spots in the Abel Tasman National Park – an area of New Zealand that’s already over-endowed with lovely spots. Read the story . . .

Cycle Tasman's Great Taste Trail

Enjoy easy cycling with enough dining and drinking options to satisfy the most fervent foodie on Tasman’s Great Taste Trail. Read the story . . .

Get your bearings at the geographical centre of New Zealand

While on a map it may look like it lies somewhere in the middle of the Cook Strait, the geographical centre of New Zealand is actually a hilltop just outside Nelson City. Read the story . . .

Camping in Golden Bay: a pristine paradise

Base yourself under canvas in a pristine paradise of golden beaches, alpine valleys, tranquil rivers and ocean as far as the eye can see. Read the story . . .

Awaroa Beach: the beach we all own

You may well not be aware of it, but we all own this beach. Well, kinda. Read the story . . .

Te Waikoropupū Springs Scenic Reserve: spectacular freshwater springs

There is near-optically pure water at the sacred ‘Place of the Dancing Sands', the largest freshwater springs in the southern hemisphere. Read the story . . .

The Nelson market: homemade with heart and skill

Visit this pure, heartfelt celebration of the creative endeavours of the people of the region and their fine local produce. Read the story . . .

Kayaking the Abel Tasman: sheltered coves, crystal streams and exquisite beaches

The sand is a colour you simply have never seen before. The water is so blue it doesn’t actually look real. Read the story . . .

Farewell Spit: the longest natural sandbar in the world

Travel along the longest natural sandbar in the world, a sanctuary to over 90 bird species, including bar-tailed godwits, knots, curlews, whimbrels and turnstones. Read the story . . .

Experience views of a lifetime skydiving at Abel Tasman

What better way to survey the best bits of New Zealand’s scenery than from a bird’s-eye view up to 16,500 feet above the ground? Read the story . . .

Canterbury Region

Family fun

Get up close with the animals at Orana Wildlife Park

In Christchurch, you can see some of the world’s most impressive wildlife, just 15 minutes’ drive from the airport. Read the story . . .

Horse trekking in Hanmer Springs

Imagine summiting a steep hill set in an idyllic mountain landscape, in fresh air and sunshine, all without breaking a sweat. Read the story . . .

Indulge in a feast of crayfish at Kaikōura

There are no prizes for picking the best spot in New Zealand to enjoy a seafood delicacy. The name of the place gives it away, really. Kai means ‘food’ in Māori. Kōura is crayfish. Read the story . . .

Marvel at the Milky Way in the Aoraki Mackenzie Dark Sky Reserve

There is no better place in New Zealand to see stars than in the heart of the Mackenzie district, where the clarity of the constellations will take your breath away. Read the story . . .

Spend the day at Christchurch's Sumner Beach

Kite-flying, dog-walking, swimming, or snoozing in the sunshine, Christchurch’s Sumner Beach offers everything you need for a summer’s day out. Read the story . . .

Ride the epic Alps 2 Ocean Cycle Trail

Linking the Southern Alps to the Pacific Ocean, the aptly named Alps 2 Ocean cycle trail also takes in some of the most picturesque landscapes of the South Island. Read the story . . .

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Family fun > Summer Must-Do's > Art and culture

The Giant’s House: a whimsical wonderland

At the top of a hill in Akaroa, you’ll find a striking candy-coloured house with the kind of garden that dreams are made of. Read the story . . .

Activities > Indulgence > Must-Do's

Hanmer Springs: soothe the soul at New Zealand's alpine sanctuary

Soothe the soul in world-class thermal pools nestled in a high-country spa village flanked by towering mountains. Read the story . . .

Activities > Get outdoors > Family fun > Summer Must-Do's

Cross the South Island on the TranzAlpine, one of the world's most scenic train journeys

As far as window seats go, they don’t get much better than on the TranzAlpine, where the term ‘picture window’ takes on a whole new meaning. Read the story . . .

Whale watching: close encounters on the water

The Hikurangi Trench off the coast of Kaikōura is home to a wealth of deep-sea marine life, including orca, blue and humpback whales. Read the story . . .

The Hermitage: a haven for the adventurous

Not much has changed in the view from the Hermitage from the day it was opened in 1884. Jagged, snowy peaks in every direction and the fast-flowing Hooker River outside the front door. Read the story . . .

Aoraki Mount Cook National Park: the iconic peak that is the snapshot of the south

Explore snowy mountainscapes, turquoise glacier-fed lakes and the snow tussock grassland of alpine valleys in the Aoraki Mount Cook National Park. Read the story . . .

Southern stars: see the rare but spectacular Aurora Australis

See the rare but spectacular Aurora Australis from the 4300-square-kilometre UNESCO Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve. Read the story . . .

The Church of the Good Shepherd: the most photographed church with the best views

Visit this iconic church set above the shoreline and stunning views of Lake Tekapō. Read the story . . .

Christchurch’s street art: an expression of solidarity

This isn’t a couple of cute billboard-type pieces put up in obvious places. This is a thing. Read the story . . .

The Grand Traverse: a spectacular flight of fancy

The Grand Traverse is a stunning scenic flight that explores the Aoraki Mt Cook and Westland Tai Poutini national park, covering about 200km of unforgettable scenery. Read the story . . .

Akaroa: French heritage charm and the finest of foods

This is the place where sheltered harbour, French heritage, colonial architecture and a passion for fine food fuse perfectly together. Read the story . . .

Otago Region

Discover the scandalous stories of Larnach Castle

With a combination of lavish Victorian architecture and the tragic stories of its founders, Larnach Castle is rich in history. Read the story . . .

Explore the extraordinary geology of the Waitaki Whitestone Geopark

The Waitaki Whitestone Geopark is a story 35 million years in the making. Read the story . . .

Spot penguins, seals and one of New Zealand’s oldest lighthouses at Nugget Point

A historic lighthouse on a rocky peninsula surrounded by the wild Pacific Ocean: it doesn’t get much more iconic than Nugget Point. Read the story . . .

Olveston House: how the other half lived

Designed by a London architect and built in 1904 – Dunedin's Olveston House is really something special. Read the story . . .

Ōamaru’s Victorian Precinct: the capital of all things steampunk

Slightly eccentric, Ōamaru is one of those not-as-it-first-seems places. The surprises are all good ones, though! Read the story . . .

Moeraki Boulders: clamber over them for the ultimate selfie

Make the most of the photo op with these huge, marble-like boulders strewn along windswept Koekohe Beach. Read the story . . .

Otago Central Rail Trail: journey into an ever-changing heartland

The Otago Central Rail Trail is 150km from Middlemarch to Clyde and takes in just about everything that’s stunning about Central Otago. Read the story . . .

The wondrous wildlife of Otago Peninsula

‘The most accessible wildlife in the South Island’ is the catch-cry here. Well, there are wheeling seabirds, honking sea lions and all manner of other natural noises, but you get the point. Read the story . . .

Southern Lakes Region

Catapult yourself in Queenstown

The home of adventure sport in New Zealand, Queenstown is also the international birthplace of bungy jumping. Read the story . . .

Complete the world’s highest waterfall climb via ferrata in Wānaka

Scale a 450 metre-high waterfall and stay dry in Wanaka. Read the story . . .

Explore the walking trails of Glenorchy

At the northern head of Queenstown’s Lake Wakatipu, Glenorchy is the launchpad for some of New Zealand’s best multi-day tramps and Great Walks. Read the story . . .

Get lakeside in Wānaka

There’s something about spending time next to a lake that’s good for your soul. In Wānaka, the lake is so picturesque you may never want to leave. Read the story . . .

Snap a selfie atop iconic Roys Peak

Roys Peak in Wānaka is instantly recognisable for its spectacular views. Read the story . . .

Cruise Lake Wakatipu on the TSS Earnslaw

Cruise Lake Wakatipu in Queenstown aboard the elegant ‘Lady of the Lake’, the last remaining coal-fired steamship operating in the southern hemisphere. Read the story . . .

Bungy jump in Queenstown: test your limits

Pay homage at the home of contemporary, commercial bungy by strapping on a bungy cord and throwing yourself into the ether. Read the story . . .

Walking

The Routeburn Track: the ultimate alpine adventure

It's one of the country’s most famous walks so, let’s get the house- (or hut-) keeping out of the way first: you’ll need to book in the heavy season. Read the story . . .

Rob Roy Glacier Track: glaciers, waterfalls and thieving parrots

The drive to the start of the Roby Roy Glacier Track is almost as energy-sapping as the walk to the top of the glacier. But it's worth it to experience one of the region’s most stunning walks. Read the story . . .

Queenstown Hill Time Walk: a rocky delight

Queenstown Hill, just out of town, is more than worth a peek, and you can make its peak in an hour if you get a wriggle on. Read the story . . .

Arrowtown: a picture-perfect living museum

Autumn. That’s the time to visit. Much of this part of the South Island takes on a splendid glow at that time of year. None more so than Arrowtown which is, frankly, already right off the cutesy scale as it is. Read the story . . .

Queenstown to Glenorchy Road: a drive to Paradise

Enjoy forty-five minutes of emerald lake water and bush-clad hills, against a backdrop of snow-touched mountains as you drive from bustling Queenstown to picturesque Glenorchy – via Paradise. Read the story . . .

West Coast Region

Pancake rocks and blowholes: 30 million years in the making

At Punakāiki, walk into an ancient world of pancake-shaped rock formations 30 million years in the making, along with mighty blowholes and a terrific surge pool. Read the story . . .

Heavenly Haast: a UNESCO World Heritage Area

The southern corner of the South Island’s West Coast is home to landscapes so wild and spectacular, it has been recognised by UNESCO as an area of international significance. Read the story . . .

Ōkārito Lagoon: wonderful wetland wilderness

Explore the lagoon and river channels by kayak and journey through this divine wetland wilderness into the heart of the rainforest. Read the story . . .

Ōpārara Basin: limestone caves with cathedral-like passages and magnificent arches

Discover pristine rainforest, limestone caves with cathedral-like passages and magnificent, magical arches at the Ōpārara Basin in Kahurangi National Park. Read the story . . .

Buller Gorge: swing into action in the deep, meandering canyon

Visit the deep, meandering canyon where you can zipline, raft whitewater rapids, jump on a jet boat or experience our longest swingbridge spanning the mighty Buller River. Read the story . . .

Denniston: a real ghost-town experience

Take a detour back in time to Denniston, a near-deserted mining town on a bleak, windswept 600-metre plateau, home to the infamous 45-degree Denniston Incline. Read the story . . .

Get outdoors > Summer Must-Do's

Get a real sense of scale at Fox and Franz Josef Glaciers

Even visiting the vast swathes of ice that make up Franz and Fox Glaciers in peak summer, you’ll need your puffer jacket. Read the story . . .

Get outdoors > Free things to do > Must-Do's

The Lake Matheson walk: a photographer's dream

Lake Matheson is a photographer’s dream, where the waters reflect a near-perfect image of snow-capped Aoraki Mount Cook. Read the story . . .

Road trips > Must-Do's

Great Coast Road: roadtripping at its best

Drive the length of the South Island, skirting the West Coast and traversing through the Southern Alps, and experience bountiful roadtripping at its very best. Read the story . . .

Fiordland Region

Paddle a kayak in Milford Sound

Milford Sound is the best-known and most accessible of all the fiords in Fiordland National Park. Read the story . . .

Te Anau to Milford Sound Piopiotahi Highway: the journey into the heart of Fiordland

If you want to take in Fiordland’s wilderness, vastness and beauty without being drenched in that seemingly perpetual rain, take the Piopiotahi Highway. Read the story . . .

Southland Region

Walk, ride or drive along Ōreti Beach

Ōreti Beach runs for 26 kilometres along the southern coast of the South Island. Read the story . . .