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Introduction
New Zealand is an island nation located in the remote Southwestern Pacific Ocean. This Geographically diverse country is made up of two main island. the North Island and the South Island while the North Island features active geothermal areas, rolling green hills, sandy beaches and vibrant cities.
The South Island boasts a towering mountain range, dramatic fjords, Glistering lakes and vast glacier. Beyond their distinct landscape, both of these islands share a deep connection to Maori culture and have gained recognition for their film location.
Explore 15 Famous Tourist Places In New Zealand that you must visit if you travel to this country
01) Lake Taupo :
Lake Taupo is the largest lake in New Zealand and can be found in the center of the North Island. The region’s dramatic volcanic landscape is a legacy of the super volcano that formed the lake.
The small town of Taupo sits on the edge of the shores and offers a wide range of coffee shops and beaches that are perfect for longing. You can also go puddle boarding r explore nearby. Geothermal wonders. A particular highlight for us was a nearby park called Orakei Korako, a hidden valley that showcase vibrant Silica terraces, Geysers and bubbling mud pool.
02) Franz Josef and Fox Glacier :
Situated on the western coast of the South Island, the small town of Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers which are accessible at relatively low altitudes as they descend from the Southern alps into lush rainforest.
Near the town of Fox Glacier you can see amazing reflection of the surrounding peaks from lake Matheson on clear days. On the other hand, Franz Josef is known for its helicopter tours and guided ice walks. The helicopter tour was an unforgettable experience as you can accessed the upper reaches of the Glacier.
03) Mount Aspiring National Park :
Located back on the South Island, Mount Aspiring National Park is a vast and dramatic wilderness characterized by towering peaks, rushing rivers, Cascading waterfalls and ancient beach forests. Spanning over 3500 sq km or 1352 sq miles.
This park has many accessible entry points for example you can get here from the town of Glennorchy as well as the heart pass highway along its Northern boundary.
The Park also offers a wide range of hiking trails from short and accessible walks to waterfalls view point. You can opt for more challenging treks at higher elevation, if you have multiple days in the areas, such as the famous Routeburn track.
04) Rotorua :
Situated in the central zone of the North Island Rotorua is defined by its remarkable geothermal activity. This is direct result of its setting within a vast crater surrounding lake Rotorua. You’ll find a wealth of geothermal park here Waimangu Volcanic valley, which is the world’s youngest geothermal system.
Beyond its geothermal wonders, Rotorua is a great place to experience Maori culture and get a better understanding of their tradition. There are also tons of thrilling outdoor adventure option, such as white water rafting on the Kaituna river.
05) Abel Taiman National Park :
Located at the top of the South Island, Abel Taiman National park is home to golden sand beaches, crystal clear water and lush native forest. The park’s unique roadless interior means access is primarily via water taxis or by walking in from either end.
It offers great opportunities for hiking and Kayaking along its sheltered coastline. The town of Kalteriteri and Marahan both serves as excellent bases to explore the park, each offering frequent water taxi service.
06) Queenstown :
Queenstown is tucked on the shores of the stunning lake wakatipu and is surrounded by the remarkable mountain range known as the ”adventure capital of the world”, it offers a wide range of adrenaline-pumping activities from mountain biking to paragliding and bungy jumping.
You can opt for an adventure on the water with some Jet boating beyond the adventure, Queenstown boasts a cute down town core with a vibrant nightlife. There is also a scenic gondola ride, ski hills in the winter and a world class hiking option in the summer.
07) Wellington :
Nestled at the Southern Trip of the North Island Wellington is New Zealand’s capital city. Characterized by its Lilly Terrain and Lively waterfront. Wellington boasts a compact city center that brimming with creativity. A must visit is Te Papa Tongarewa also known as the Museum of New Zealand.
This museum offers immersive insight into the nation geography history and culture. There is also oriental Bay With its golden sands and relaxed atmosphere. The Mount victoria lookout was another one of our favorite places to visit in the city boasting panoramic vistas of Harbor Island.
08) Taranaki/ Eqmont National Park :
Te Papa Kura-o-taranaki formerly known as Eqmount national park, dominates the western landscape of the north island. Standing at an elevation of 2518 meter or 8,261 feet, the dormant mount Taranaki is the centerpiece of the park.
In fact, the volcano is so prominent that its often visible from many other location across the North Island. The unique National park is home to a diverse network of hiking trails that wind through lush rainforests, alpine meadows and breathtaking viewpoint overlooking the iconic volcano.
09) Coromandel Peninsula :
Locate on The North island’s east coast, the coromandel peninsula features white sand beaches, a rugged coastline, volcanic hills and lush native forest. This region is famous for its unique natural attraction and cute coastline town.
Hahie is a nice town to base yourself when visiting the Peninsula from the town you can take a short walk through lush forest which is situated for all fitness levels.
This will bring you to the main attraction of the area Catherdral cave. This natural arch is one of the most picturesque spots in the country. Other attraction includes the mount Paku Summit and the geothermal waters at the Hot water beach, where you can dig your own little hot tub, make sure to rent your shovel before you head down to hot water beach, we rented them from the campsite for hike NZ $5. You can also find them at the general store.
10) Lake Tekapo :
Nestled in the heart of the South Island, lake Tekapo is known for its beautiful turquoise waters. This unique hue is caused by fine rock flow suspended in the glacier lake.
The quaint town of lake Tekapo serves as the area’s main hub, where you an enjoy scenic walks and bike rides. This area is also one of the best spots in the world for stargazing. Thanks to its clear skies. And if you visit between mid November to late December you’ll likely witness the Vibrant Lupin flower flanking on the lake.
11) Bay Of Island :
The Bay of Island is a stunning area encompassing over 140 different islands, scattered across sparkling turquoise water. This zone is a gem of the North island region and is known for its Maori History, subtropical climate, sheltered bays and sandy beaches.
One of the can’t miss activities is taking a boat tour through the picturesque archipelago. This tour will take you to Idyllic natural locations such as Otehes bay or Urupakapuka Island. Paihia serves as the most accessible base for exploring the Bay of island and offers great tourist facilities, ferry connection and a relaxed atmosphere.
12) Aoraki/ Mount cook national Park :
It lies in the heart of the South Island and is made up to show-capped peaks, expensive glacier and turquoise lakes. The Majestic Aoraki/ mount cook form it centerpiece and is New Zealand’s highest mountain.
It stands tall at an impressive 3724 meter or 12, 218 Feet. You can experience some of New Zealand’s best hike in the park. The accessible hooker valley track offers view of the Iconic mountain as well as hooker lake while the steeper sealy Tarne track rewards with Panoramic vistas of the Hooker Valley from above lean about the specific hiking stats and things to know before you go.
13) Wanaka :
The Cute town of Wanaka is centered around a crystal clear lake on the south island. It sits just to the North of Queenstown but offers a more relaxed atmosphere than its busting neighbor.
Its known for being surrounded by Breathtaking nature and having an array of outdoor activities, including the iconic hike to Roy’s peak. You’ll find some of the best Panoramic views in all of New Zealand from the top of this trek. But beyond hiking, Wanaka is also a hub for water sports, via Ferrata routes and biking trails.
We loved all of the varied scenery along the ride from nearby lake Hawea. The well -maintained trails meanders alongside lakes and river and passed through the quaint Albert Town.
14) Fiordland National Park :
Located in the Southwest corner of the south island, Fiordland is a remote national park that’s renowned for its untouched natural beauty. This giant park boasts lush rainforests, immense lakes and lots of wildlife. You’ll also find towering Fjords that have been carved by ancient glacier.
This is actually New Zealand’s largest national park with a total area of 12,607 sq km or 4868 sq miles. A highlight is definitely experiencing the majestic of its Fjords on a boat tour through the remote doubtful sound or the famous milford sound.
If you are looking to be more active, the park also offers a wealth of hiking trails. It included the lake Marian track, the keys summit hike and the gertrude saddle track. Keep in mind that the one of gertrude saddle should only be attempted if its good weather and you must have a decent level of alpine hiking experience. There are also a variety of multi day hiking option which takes you deeper into the mountain.
15) Tonqariro Nationa Park :
Situated in the center of the North island, Tongariro national park is a dramatic volcanic landscape dominated by three active volcanoes. This unique dual world heritage site showcase volcanic plateaus, emerald lakes and diverse vegetation.
The Tonqariro alpine crossing is by far the most popular hike in the park. This challenging yet rewarding trek offers unparalleled views of active volcanic craters. Its considered one of the best day hikes in the world. Be sure to check the weather forecast and book a shuttle before hand as this is a one way hike.
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