Credit: Corin Walker Bain
1. Waitomo Cave glow worms
Said to be one of New Zealand’s best natural attractions, the Waitomo Cave houses a magical array of thousands of tiny, sparkling glow worms. Being split into two levels, you can experience the glow worm grotto both by foot and boat. The upper dry chamber is where you’ll explore by foot and find delicate cave formations. Take a boat ride through the lower chamber to uncover the serene atmosphere of a spectacular cave decorated in living lights. What is extra special about this experience, is many of the guides here are descendants of the first Māori chief who originally explored the cave. They are truly able to bring the experience to life as they explain the ancient history and legends of this cave and its glowing inhabitants.
Credit: Matt Crawford
2. Hobbiton™
No visit to New Zealand would be complete without a trip to Hobbiton™, the mythical town featured in The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit trilogies. Here you can explore the exquisitely decorated movie sets, where you’ll really feel like you’ve taken a step back into a mythological time. A guided tour will take you through the 12-acre set, visiting Hobbit Holes™, the Mill and into the world-famous Green Dragon™ Inn. A nighttime visit can be even more special, as you have the opportunity to enjoy a feast fit for a hobbit at the Green Dragon Inn, and stroll through the village when the chimneys are smoking and the glow of lanterns can be seen in the distance.
Credit: Dr Bob Hall
3. TranzAlpine Train
Not only is the TranzAlpine train a convenient way to travel across New Zealand, but it is also described as one of the greatest train journeys in the world due to its stunning scenery. Travelling between Christchurch and Greymouth, the TranzAlpine boasts views through the spectacular Southern Alps, as well as the edges of the ice-fed Waimakariri River and native beech forest. Taking just over 5 hours and traversing 223 kilometres, this is the train journey of a lifetime!
Credit: Fraser Clements
4. Lake Taupo
Located in the North Island of New Zealand, Lake Taupo was created thousands of years ago by a volcanic eruption so large the skies across the globe in Europe and China were darkened. There is still evidence of the geothermal activity here with the geysers at the nearby Craters of the Moon, as well as the warm water currents at some of the local beaches. Taking a boat out on Lake Taupo will help you experience the unique Māori rock carvings in Mine Bay. Hailed as one of New Zealand’s most remarkable contemporary art pieces, the Māori rock carvings were crafted by carver Matahi Brightwell from 1976 to 1980. The exceptional detail of these impressive carvings makes it easy to see why they have become one of the North Island’s most popular attractions and a must-see on your visit.
Credit: Rob Suisted
5. Milford Sound
Milford Sound is arguably New Zealand’s most incredible natural wonder. Running 15 kilometres inland from the Tasman Sea, this fiord was formed by the process of glaciation over millions of years. Today, it is characterised by towering mountain peaks, plunging spectacularly into deep, dark waters, and is also home to some of New Zealand’s rarest flora and fauna. More than three hours by road from Queenstown, a trip to Milford Sound really requires a full day trip at a minimum.
