Discover our Kiwi Gems!
Coromandel. © Pete May
Discover our Kiwi Gems and make your next road trip more interesting!
We've picked 185 Kiwi Gems from Northland to the bottom of the South Island that you probably haven't discovered yet! Plus, keep scrolling down to find 101 more Kiwi Gems from all around Aotearoa.
Northland Kiwi Gems
While the Northland Region may be famous for its beautiful beaches, there is plenty more to discover here, too – from mind-boggling geology to art, gardens and the longest footbridge in the Southern Hemisphere. Check out these 11 great Kiwi Gems. Read the story . . .
Auckland Kiwi Gems
Did you know that you can visit a reptile park in Auckland? Or an incredible Buddhist temple? How about stargazing at an International Dark Sky Sanctuary or getting up close with friendly donkeys? We've picked 13 Kiwi Gems around Auckland that you won't have discovered yet. Read the story . . .
Bay of Plenty and Coromandel Kiwi Gems
Secret beaches, offshore islands, hidden lakes, swimming holes, waterfalls and a gorgeous water garden – these are just some of 14 Kiwi Gems that you've probably never heard of in the Bay of Plenty and Coromandel regions. Read the story . . .
Waikato Kiwi Gems
Did you know that the Waikato Region has a hot water beach and pancake rocks? There is also an incredible wildlife sanctuary, ancient Māori heritage, a hidden sculpture garden and a church made from trees. Check out these 10 Waikato Kiwi Gems. Read the story . . .
Rotorua Kiwi Gems
Fantastic family-friendly playgrounds, secret hot pools, free geothermal activity, walkways, waterfalls, adrenaline-fuelled adventures and more – find 11 Kiwi Gems to discover in Rotorua. Read the story . . .
Central North Island Kiwi Gems
Stretching from the coast at Whanganui to the mountains of Tongariro National Park and the waters of Lake Taupō, there is so much to discover in the Central North Island. Check out these 17 fantastic Kiwi Gems that you probably didn't know existed. Read the story . . .
Taranaki Kiwi Gems
A hidden waterfall, a breathtaking rock climb, a serene lake, a nomadic lighthouse and a luge – just some of these 10 Kiwi Gems you'll find in Taranaki. Read the story . . .
Hawke's Bay and Eastland Kiwi Gems
There's much more to the East Coast than just the famous vineyards and beaches. Find great cycle trails, hidden hot springs, Māori history and New Zealand's largest pōhutukawa tree amongst these 10 Kiwi Gems in Hawke's Bay and Eastland. Read the story . . .
Wellington and Wairarapa Kiwi Gems
From an artesian water spring to a literary walk, a historic lighthouse, an intriguing museum, river adventures and fossils, we've got 11 more Kiwi Gems for you to discover in Wellington and Wairarapa. Read the story . . .
Marlborough Kiwi Gems
Immerse yourself in the unique landscapes of Marlborough with these 10 Kiwi Gems – from isolated islands in the Marlborough Sounds to a gorgeous garden, a movie star lighthouse, a wildlife sanctuary and some incredible pink lakes. Read the story . . .
Nelson Kiwi Gems
Take a deep dive into the unique and curious attractions in the Nelson Tasman region. From perpetually burning flames in the middle of the forest, to a ballroom-sized cave, beautiful Japanese gardens, magical fresh water springs and more – check out these nine great Kiwi Gems. Read the story . . .
Canterbury Kiwi Gems
The Canterbury region is vast. From the volcanic Banks Peninsula and wild Kaikōura Coast to the heart of the Mackenzie District and further afield to Hurunui or South Canterbury there is so much to discover. We've got 16 Kiwi Gems to kickstart your travel plans. Read the story . . .
Otago Kiwi Gems
From the beautiful white sand beaches around Dunedin to intriguing gold-mining heritage in Central Otago, incredible geology, Māori history and New Zealand's only historic car ferry punt, check out these 12 Kiwi Gems in the Otago Region. Read the story . . .
Southern Lakes Kiwi Gems
Find the best activities and attractions around Queenstown and Wānaka that you've never heard of. Think alpine walks, heritage sites, a sprawling toy museum and a tour of Lake Wakatipu inside a shark. Discover these 10 Kiwi Gems in the Southern Lakes Region. Read the story . . .
West Coast Kiwi Gems
Visit the West Coast of the South Island to immerse yourself in wild natural landscapes and delve into the region's rich gold-mining heritage. We've picked nine Kiwi Gems to get you started. Read the story . . .
Fiordland and Southland Kiwi Gems
Did you know that Southland is home to New Zealand's longest wooden suspension bridge? Or that in Fiordland you can cruise on a boat once used by Winston Churchill? Find out more with these 12 Kiwi Gems in Fiordland and Southland. Read the story . . .
Northland Region
Te Paki Coastal Track: a taste of the Far North
Following the rugged coastline of Cape Rēinga, the Te Paki Coastal Track takes in some of the best beaches in the Far North Region. Read the story . . .
Get away from it all at Kai Iwi Lakes
Summer camping at Northland’s Kai Iwi Lakes is a quintessential Kiwi experience. Read the story . . .
Spend the day on Urupukapuka Island
Urupukapuka Island in the Bay of Islands is ringed by dreamy white sand beaches, warm, clear water for snorkelling, beachside campsites and walking tracks winding through long grass. Read the story . . .
Climb Mount Parihaka
Rising 241 metres above Whangārei, Mount Parihaka is a significant Māori pā site, with spectacular views across the city. Read the story . . .
Auckland Region
Immerse yourself in art at Sculptureum
Experience sprawling world-class sculpture gardens, multiple art galleries and a fine dining restaurant on the outskirts of Matakana. Read the story . . .
Climb the soaring sand dunes at Lake Wainamu
Hidden behind the towering black sand dunes near Auckland’s Te Henga / Bethells Beach is a freshwater lake, ideal for safe summer swimming. Read the story . . .
Raft the rapids in Manukau City
In Auckland’s Manukau City you can raft down the world’s highest artificial waterfall. Read the story . . .
Spend the day at one of Auckland's beautiful regional parks
From ancient lava flows to tidal estuaries and pōhutukawa-fringed coastlines, there are many landscapes to explore in the 27 regional parks around Auckland. Read the story . . .
Surround yourself with birdsong on Tiritiri Matangi Island
One of the world’s most successful conservation projects can be found just off the coast of Auckland’s Whangapāraoa Peninsula. Read the story . . .
Enchant your inner child at Whoa! Studios
Combine a live theatre experience, a film studio, an excellent restaurant and possibly the best playground in New Zealand and you’ve got a recipe for a great family day out. Read the story . . .
Bay of Plenty Region
Meet the exotic residents of Katikati Bird Gardens
On the edge of Tauranga Harbour you can wander through beautiful gardens with exotic birds for company. Read the story . . .
McLaren Falls Park: full of family fun
McLaren Falls Park is a 190-hectare swathe of lakeside parkland on the outskirts of Tauranga, that’s brimming with activities. Read the story . . .
Coromandel Region
Climb the Pinnacles in The Coromandel
Climb to the top of the Pinnacles in the heart of the Coromandel Forest Park for panoramic views of the peninsula. Read the story . . .
Travel through native bush via train or zipline in The Coromandel
At Driving Creek on The Coromandel Peninsula, you can choose between chugging through native forest on New Zealand’s only narrow-gauge mountain railway or zooming above it via zipline. Read the story . . .
Waikato Region
Discover New Zealand’s most beautiful waterfall in Waitomo
In the heart of the Waitomo District, you’ll find Marokopa Falls – one of the most beautiful waterfalls in New Zealand. Read the story . . .
Hit the race track at Hampton Downs
Unleash your inner racer on the go-kart track at Hampton Downs in Waikato Read the story . . .
Lake Taupō Region
Helm your own Doughboat on Lake Taupō
One of the latest and most striking additions to the Taupō waterfront are Doughboats – inflatable doughnut-shaped boats with room for up to six people to cruise the inner reaches of the Great Lake. Read the story . . .
Squeeze into an enchanted world in Taupō
Wriggle your way through a narrow rock crevice to find a naturally-heated waterfall, deep in the bush on the outskirts of Taupō. Read the story . . .
Ride around New Zealand’s largest lake in Taupō
An 83km, one- to three-day grade three ride, the Great Lake Trail forms part of the Ngā Haerenga New Zealand Cycle Trail. Read the story . . .
Soak in the free hot springs at Otumuheke Stream
Where the Waikato River meets Otumuheke Stream in Taupō you’ll find free outdoor hot pools. Read the story . . .
Rotorua Region
Te Ara Ahi: geothermal by bike
In Rotorua, you can have the unique experience of cycling through active geothermal fields. Read the story . . .
Get up close with native falcons in Rotorua
At Wingspan, New Zealand’s National Bird of Prey Centre, you can get up close to our native falcons, or kārearea. Read the story . . .
Find archaeological relics at the Buried Village
Discover New Zealand’s most famous archaeological site at the Buried Village in Rotorua. Read the story . . .
Admire the vibrant hues of Hamurana Springs
Rotorua’s Hamurana Springs are the deepest natural freshwater springs in the North Island. Read the story . . .
Ruapehu Region
Manawatū and Rangitīkei Regions
Art, science and rugby in Palmerston North
In Palmerston North, you can visit the first-ever public museum devoted to rugby. Read the story . . .
Take on the Rangitīkei River at your own pace
While whitewater rafting is undoubtedly an adventurous activity, on the Rangitīkei River you can choose to raft at a much more leisurely pace. Read the story . . .
Walk or cycle the He Ara Kotahi pathway in Palmerston North
He Ara Kotahi means ‘the path that brings people together’ which is a fitting name for Palmerston North’s newest walkway. Read the story . . .
Get a glimpse of rural New Zealand at the Feilding Sale Yards
Bustling, noisy, smelly and fascinating, the Feilding Sale Yards provide a dynamic insight into the workings of New Zealand’s farming industry. Read the story . . .
Whanganui Region
Taranaki Region
Wander amongst the blooms at Pukeiti Gardens
Taranaki’s expansive Pukeiti Gardens have one of the largest and most varied collections of rhododendrons in the world. Read the story . . .
Tawhiti Museum: immersive history
One of New Zealand’s best and most innovative private museums, Tawhiti Museum in South Taranaki recreates the region’s history in vivid 4D detail. Read the story . . .
Pukekura Park: flora, fauna and festivals
Right in the heart of New Plymouth you’ll find the multi-faceted Pukekura Park. Read the story . . .
Visit one of New Zealand's fastest-changing beaches in Taranaki
Tongapōrutu Beach in northern Taranaki is one of New Zealand’s most rapidly evolving pieces of coastline. Read the story . . .
Eastland Region
Hawke's Bay Region
Explore the unique geology, wildlife and waterfalls of Boundary Stream
Find Hawke’s Bay’s highest waterfall, rare birdlife and intriguing geology at the ‘mainland island’ of Boundary Stream. Read the story . . .
Sample the best of food and wine in Hawke's Bay
It’s no secret that Hawke’s Bay is renowned for its fine wine and vineyard dining but there are plenty of other unique options for eating out around the region, too. Read the story . . .
Try cable wakeboarding in Hawke’s Bay
Backpaddock Lakes in Central Hawke's Bay is a purpose-built lake equipped with two cable and pulley systems that mean you can have a go at wakeboarding, boat-free Read the story . . .
Get wet at New Zealand’s only water theme park
A never-ending river, a water-fuelled pirate fortress and a tangle of twisting slides can all be found at New Zealand’s only water theme park in Hawke's Bay. Read the story . . .
Wairarapa Region
Wellington Region
Matiu / Somes Island: New Zealand’s Alcatraz
Visit the intriguing Matiu/Somes island in the middle of Wellington Harbour. Read the story . . .
Go behind the scenes at Wētā Workshop
Wētā Workshop is world-famous, but in Wellington, you can have your own hands-on experience of cinematic craft. Read the story . . .
Eat and drink your way around Wellington City
With a stellar collection of superb cafés and restaurants, most within easy walking distance, plus an abundance of boutique brew bars, you’ll be spoilt for choice in Wellington. Read the story . . .
Find Wellington’s largest fur seal colony at Turakirae Head
Wellington’s Turakirae Head at the southern end of the Remutaka Range is a unique habitat for native birds, reptiles and most notably kekeno, or New Zealand fur seals. Read the story . . .
Marlborough Region
Sip and cycle your way around Renwick
With its high sunshine hours, minimal rainfall and more than 20,000 hectares of vines, Marlborough is the biggest wine-producing region in New Zealand. Read the story . . .
Take a family-friendly walk around Wairau Lagoons
Following the shoreline of the Wairau Lagoons, take a flat, family-friendly walk to spot seabirds and a shipwreck. Read the story . . .
Nelson Region
Brook Waimārama Sanctuary: Nelson’s nature reserve
The Brook Waimārama Sanctuary on the outskirts of Nelson City is the largest fenced preserve for endangered wildlife in the South Island. Read the story . . .
Ride one of the world’s longest flying foxes in Nelson
The Skywire at Cable Bay Adventure Park is a thrilling 300-metre-high, 1.6km return trip that sees you shoot across the treetops at up to 100 km/h. Read the story . . .
Discover the wild and windswept Wharariki Beach
You may have seen photos of the iconic archway rocks at Nelson’s Wharariki Beach, but actually experiencing this wild and windswept stretch of coastline is something quite remarkable. Read the story . . .
Go canyoning in Abel Tasman
Imagine climbing, scrambling, sliding and swimming your way through some of New Zealand’s loveliest landscapes. Read the story . . .
Canterbury Region
Marvel at the magnificent lakes of the Mackenzie District
Canterbury’s Mackenzie District is home to some of New Zealand’s most famous and photogenic lakes. Read the story . . .
Hit the trails at Christchurch Adventure Park
Not only a mecca for mountain bike enthusiasts, Christchurch Adventure Park, on the outskirts of the city is home to New Zealand’s longest zipline. Read the story . . .
Swim with seals in Kaikōura
Off the coast of Kaikōura you can frolic in the sea with friendly fur seals. Read the story . . .
Paddle around Akaroa Harbour at night
Imagine floating around the tranquil Akaroa Harbour atop a stand-up paddleboard, in the dark. Read the story . . .
Discover another side of Christchurch City on the Avon Loop
Wind your way around the new pedestrian and cycle-friendly sections of the Avon Loop through Central Christchurch. Read the story . . .
Discover rocky outcrops and rare plants at Kura Tāwhiti Conservation Area
Not only home to striking geological features, Kura Tāwhiti Conservation area or Castle Hill in Canterbury’s Waimakariri Basin also has some of the rarest plants in New Zealand. Read the story . . .
Take a trip back in time at Burkes Pass
Burkes Pass is a tiny heritage village in Canterbury’s Mackenzie Region, with a whole heap of character. Read the story . . .
Soak and slide at Hanmer Springs
With soaking pools, rock pools, mineral pools, sulphur pools and serious waterslides, the range of thermal swimming options at Hanmer Springs is designed to cater to every mood and aquatic preference. Read the story . . .
Otago Region
Scale the ancient pyramids of Okia Reserve
Did you know that we have our very own pyramids in New Zealand? Read the story . . .
Go back in time in Ōamaru's Victorian Precinct
The most remarkable aspect of Ōamaru is the whitestone heritage architecture, forged from local limestone in the Victorian era and still standing today. Read the story . . .
Southern Lakes Region
Float above Queenstown in a hot air balloon
With Sunrise Balloons, you can experience hot air ballooning while drinking in bird’s eye views over some of New Zealand’s most dramatic landscapes. Read the story . . .
Loop around Queenstown's Moke Lake
On the outskirts of Queenstown you’ll find Moke Lake – a serene and scenic spot surrounded by mountains. Read the story . . .
Visit a lake on an island in a lake in Wānaka
On Wānaka’s Mou Waho Island, you can have the surreal experience of swimming in a lake on an island on a lake. Read the story . . .
Arrowtown Chinese Settlement: multi-cultural heritage
Arrowtown is so rich in multi-cultural history, it has been named Tohu Whenua – a site that is of special significance to New Zealand because of its links to the past and the unique stories that can be discovered here. Read the story . . .
West Coast Region
Walk to Cape Foulwind
Cape Foulwind does not live up to its name. Read the story . . .
Head into the wilderness of Haast on a jet-boat safari
Take a cruise up the Waiatoto River in Haast to discover some of the region’s most remote and pristine landscapes. Read the story . . .
Relax in the soothing natural pools at Maruia Hot Springs
Whether you’re visiting Maruia Hot Springs for the day or staying overnight, you can immerse yourself in the mineral-rich water amongst the mountains, or be pampered with a day spa experience. Read the story . . .
Walk above the treetops in Hokitika
Climb the Hokitika Tower – one of the tallest human-made structures on the South Island’s West Coast. Read the story . . .
Fiordland Region
Go underground with glowworms in Te Anau
Take a scenic cruise on Fiordland’s Lake Te Anau to discover an underground wonderland. Read the story . . .
Get lakeside at Manapōuri
At 444 metres, Fiordland’s Lake Manapōuri is the second deepest lake in New Zealand. Read the story . . .
Southland Region
The Lost Gypsy: amazing automata
A caravan serving coffee, art and automata are all part of the curious collection at Southland’s Lost Gypsy. Read the story . . .
Head offshore to Ulva Island
Ulva Island, a 266-hectare island sanctuary is set in Paterson Inlet, just off the north-eastern coast of Stewart Island. Read the story . . .