10 best places to go in New Zealand

10 best places to go in New Zealand

New Zealand is home to mountains, lakes, glaciers, and iconic scenes. There are many beautiful places to visit in New Zealand, filled with natural beauty and incredible views. Your dream destination awaits.

If you are planning your first trip to the land of the long white cloud, or if your next touchdown in the country is a return trip, you may be wondering which places in New Zealand are at the top of the must-do list. Buckle up; we have compiled the ten best places to go.

1. Milford Sound / Piopiotahi

Milford Sound / Piopiotahi is one of the country's famed destinations. Once named the 8th wonder of the world, Milford Sound is precisely that. The vast fiord spans out towards the Tasman Sea under the watchful eye of the towering mountains. Home to the finest natural landscape on the South Island, it is best discovered by boat, getting up close and personal with the cascading waterfalls and local wildlife. Check out the seals, dolphins, and sometimes penguins from a cruise on this mesmerising vista.

2. Cape Reinga / Te Rerenga Wairua

Discover the ultimate Northland experience and a location that deserves everyone's attention. This sacred site is home to the collision of two oceans. The Tasman and the Pacific oceans meet in a spectacular swirl of current, and although the Cape Reinga Lighthouse is the end of the road in Northland, it is worthy of a place on your itinerary. Visit the popular 90-mile beach and Paihia (Bay of Islands) on your trip back down the country.

3. Queenstown / Tāhuna

No visit to Te Waipounamu is complete without an adrenaline-fuelled visit to Queenstown. Bungy, skydive, luge, or slip-slide your way around this world-famous ski town. Fill your days with activity, get out in the beautiful natural surroundings on a hike, and don't forget to sample the craft beer and incredible food scene in downtown Queenstown. The queue for Fergburger is always worth it. Queenstown is an all-year-round destination and has something for everyone in your party.

4. Mount Cook National Park / Aoraki

Prepare for hiking, camping, incredible nature, and NZ's tallest mountain all in one national park. We must be talking about Aoraki / Mount Cook. Home to New Zealand's tallest peak and scenery that will blow your mind. Spend a weekend exploring the trails, check out the glacier and icebergs and top it off by sleeping under a blanket of stars at one of the most picturesque campgrounds in the country. Make sure you complete the easy 10km return Hooker Valley hike and grab a cup of coffee at the Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre in The Hermitage Hotel.

5. Kaikōura

World-renowned for its marine life, Kaikoura packs a punch for ocean activity. Whales, dolphins, fur seals, and deep-sea fish await in this coastal paradise. Swim, kayak, fish or cruise with the friendly finned locals and dine on delicious kai moana (seafood) on the shore. You can hike, bike, camp, walk, and relax around this town. Check out the peninsula walkway and catch the sunset at the Kaikoura lookout for an unforgettable view of the town, Kaikoura mountain ranges, and the ocean below.

6. Abel Tasman National Park

Paradise on earth? We found it. Abel Tasman National Park is a tropical hideaway northwest of the South Island. You will be hard-pressed to find somewhere as stunningly beautiful as this national park. Think pristine blue waters, lush green rainforest, and an endless amount of white sandy beaches. You can hire kayaks or jump on a guided tour with a knowledgeable local for the day. Strap on your boots for a memorable day out on the Abel Tasman coastal track to finish your trip.

7. Tongariro Alpine Crossing

Often referred to as New Zealand's best one-day hike, the World Heritage Site Tongariro National Park has to be seen to be believed. With vast, awe-inspiring scenes, emerald lakes, and mountains galore, it is no surprise that Peter Jackson chose this as his backdrop for Lord of The Rings. A 19.4km journey across true middle earth, covering rich cultural and dramatic scenery, will have you talking about this adventure for years to come.

8. Waiheke Island

If you are looking for an escape from the big smoke, check out Waiheke Island. A short 35-minute ferry ride from Auckland city will have you surrounded by beautiful vineyards and beaches at the ‘Island of Wine’. Home to a dedicated group of award-winning winemakers, sip your way around, sample the delicious eats on offer, and start your road trip with a little bit of luxe. Don't forget to grab a bottle or two to enjoy at one of your favourite campsites along the way.

9. The Coromandel / Hauraki

Find everything you want from a relaxing few days away in the van, surrounded by incredible vistas that will have you filling up your Instagram feed in a flash. Explore many sandy beaches flanked by steep rainforest in this laid-back, picturesque environment. Discover coves and hot water beaches, where if you bring a spade, you can dig a hot pool. Cathedral Cove, or Te Whanganui-A-Hei, should be high on your list and is an immensely popular photography spot. A visit at sunrise is magical.

10. Franz Josef / Waiau

The sleepy little town of Franz Josef is a tourist mecca and perfect for those looking to park up in their home on wheels for a few days of wilderness exploring. Jump in a helicopter for a walk on the famous Franz Josef Glacier, paddle on the picturesque Lake Mapourika, and be sure to book a soak in the geothermal hot pools after a full day out in the country. Hiking, biking, and incredible scenery await in glacier country.

Hire a van and explore New Zealand

There you have it, the 10 best places to go in New Zealand are ready and waiting for you to hit the road and start exploring. Explore motorhomes, campervans, and caravans for hire in New Zealand and book your next escape here.

Image credit Sophie Piearcey.