Must-Do's this Summer | AA New Zealand

101 Must-Do's this Summer

We want this summer to be your best yet, so we've put together a list of 101 Must-Do's to give you all the inspiration you need to get out and make the most of it. From the hottest events and activities to local favourites and hidden gems – it’s the 101 things every Kiwi should have on their list!

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Discover the geological wonder of the Ōpārara Arches

Experience limestone arches, caves, a whisky-coloured river and lush rainforest in the Kahurangi National Park on the West Coast. Read the story . . .

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 . . .

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 . . .

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 . . .

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 . . .

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 . . .

Take a journey on the Whanganui River

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

Whangamatā Beach Hop: a rock n’ roll revival

A celebration of all the style and sass of the1950s and 60s, Repco Beach Hop is about music, fashion and fun. But mostly it’s about the cars. 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 . . .

Take the plunge at the Taupō Across the Lake Swim

Lake swimming is a particularly refreshing experience. Go big at Taupō, New Zealand’s largest lake. 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 . . .

Drive a bulldozer in Invercargill

In Invercargill, you can try your hand at operating seriously heavy machinery, with no special licence required. Read the story . . .

Get your groove on in Takapuna

You don’t have to travel out of the city or even over the bridge to get to a festival this summer when the Takapuna Food, Wine & Music Festival returns to Smales Farm. Read the story . . .

Climb Whangārei’s 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 . . .

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 . . .

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 . . .

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 . . .

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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 . . .

Summer Must-Do's

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 . . .

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 . . .

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 . . .

Go wild at Splore

Get out the body paint and glitter for Splore – New Zealand’s biggest fancy dress party. 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 . . .

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 . . .

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 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 . . .

Ride through history on the Ōhakune Old Coach Road

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

Wildlife and wild lights on Stewart Island

South of the southernmost tip of the South Island you’ll find Rakiura Stewart Island. 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 . . .

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 . . .

Dress up for the Hamilton Sevens

The Sevens is a rugby tournament with just as much action off the pitch as there is on it. Read the story . . .

Ride the monster dunes in Ōpononi

In Ōpononi, on the shores of the Hokianga Harbour, there are dunes of epic proportions – more sand mountains than sandhills. 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 . . .

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 . . .

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 . . .

Get a taste of terroir at the Marlborough Food and Wine Festival

Sample the best of Marlborough wine in one easy location at the Marlborough Food and Wine Festival. 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 . . .

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 . . .

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Summer Must-Do's

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 . . .

Summer Must-Do's

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 . . .

Summer Must-Do's

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 . . .

Dial up the style at the Napier Art Deco Festival

Get your glad rags on and join the revellers at the Napier Art Deco Festival. Read the story . . .

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 . . .

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 . . .

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 . . .

Get up close with the native avian wonders of Kāpiti Island

Kāpiti Island is one of the few easily accessible offshore nature reserves in New Zealand. Read the story . . .

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 . . .

Cycle the vines in Martinborough

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

Marvel at the power of water on the Huka Falls to Aratiatia Rapids track

Experience the intense power and energy of water, as the Waikato River is squeezed through dams and rapids in Taupō. Read the story . . .

Visit Whakaari White Island, the most active volcano in New Zealand

Get up close to hissing fumaroles, sizzling sulphur and steaming craters on a visit to Whakaari White Island. Read the story . . .

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 . . .

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 . . .

Stroll through sculpture and scenery on Waiheke Island

Take a stroll through the dramatic works of eminent New Zealand artists on Waiheke Island. 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 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 . . .

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 . . .

Fish n' chips and L&P on the beach

From Ahipara to Ahuriri; Mangonui to the Mount; Paihia to Piha – New Zealand is spoilt for spots to enjoy fish and chips by the sea. 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 . . .

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 . . .

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Summer Must-Do's

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 . . .

Summer Must-Do's

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 . . .

Summer Must-Do's

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 . . .

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 . . .

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 . . .

Experience the natural highlights of the Catlins

The remote and rugged corner of the South Island’s south-eastern coast, known as the Catlins, is like a highlight reel of all the best bits nature has to offer. Read the story . . .

Drink in the view from the top of Mount Maunganui

Mount Maunganui is the iconic landmark of the Bay of Plenty region – standing sentry over white sand, turquoise surf and happy holidaymakers. Read the story . . .

Otago Central Rail Trail: the original Great Ride

The Otago Central Rail Trail is New Zealand’s original ‘Great Ride’ cycle trail. 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 . . .

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 . . .

Celebrate the 20th anniversary of Wings over Wairarapa

Wings over Wairarapa really does live up to its acronym. With stellar aircraft displays set against stunning scenery, you can’t help but say WOW. Read the story . . .

Push your limits at the Shotover Moonlight Mountain Marathon

Challenge your fitness and your endurance running off road at the Shotover Moonlight Mountain Marathon in Queenstown. 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 . . .

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 . . .

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 . . .

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 . . .

Explore the world of WOMAD

WOMAD, or World of Music, Arts and Dance, is a festival held at locations throughout the world. In New Zealand, the event has made its home in Taranaki. Read the story . . .

Cross the Buller river on one of New Zealand’s longest swing bridges

Walk the 110-metre wire swing bridge above the churning green water to experience the power of the river and get a whole new perspective on the Buller Gorge. Read the story . . .

Join the party at the Auckland Lantern Festival

Ring in Chinese New Year in Auckland at the bright, colourful, cultural extravaganza of the Lantern Festival. 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 . . .

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 . . .

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Summer Must-Do's

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 . . .

Summer Must-Do's

Gardens Magic: live and luminous in Wellington

There’s nothing quite like listening to live music under stars and fairy lights on a warm summer evening. Read the story . . .

Summer Must-Do's

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 . . .

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 . . .

Paloma Gardens: landscapes like no other

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

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 . . .

Bring your crew to the cricket

Summer afternoons filled with thrilling international sports – it must be cricket. Read the story . . .

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 . . .

Snap a selfie atop iconic Roys Peak

Possibly New Zealand’s biggest Instagram celebrity, Roys Peak in Wānaka is instantly recognisable for its spectacular views. Read the story . . .

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 . . .

Slide into summer at Soundsplash

A laid-back festival in chilled out Raglan is the epitome of a classic Kiwi summer, which is why Soundsplash is so popular. 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 . . .

Catapult yourself in Queenstown

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

Climb Mount Tarawera

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

Challenge your taste buds at the Hokitika Wildfoods Festival

In Hokitika, locals celebrate their remote and rugged surrounds in the form of questionable cuisine. 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 . . .

Meet the Legends of Bathurst

In January, Hampton Downs will celebrate all things Bathurst. Read the story . . .

Walk, ride or drive along Ōreti Beach

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

Dance to the rhythm of the New Year

Whether you prefer to ring in the New Year with music and festivities amongst mountains or vineyards, there is a festival to suit. 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 . . .

101 Must-Do's this Summer around New Zealand

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