Things To Do
in New Zealand
New Zealand, often hailed as Aotearoa by its indigenous Māori people, is a stunning island nation in the southwestern Pacific Ocean, celebrated for its majestic landscapes that range from verdant rainforests and rolling hills to dramatic mountains and breathtaking coastlines. It is renowned for its rich cultural heritage, blending Māori traditions with European influences, and is a hotbed for outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, and bungee jumping, thanks to its diverse and rugged terrain.
New Zealand also plays a pivotal role in global environmental conservation efforts, committed to preserving its unique biodiversity and advocating for sustainable living practices.
- "Kia ora" - Hello
- "Haere mai" - Welcome
- "Ka kite" - See you
- "Tēnā koe" - Thank you
- "Māori ora" - Be well
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $80 - $200
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $40
- ☕ Coffee: $4 - $6
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $5
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $70 - $150
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $40 - $100
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with an exhilarating hike at Tongariro National Park. Take in the breathtaking landscapes and unique volcanic features.
Head to Rotorua for some natural hot springs and experience Maori culture. Don't miss the chance to enjoy a traditional hangi lunch.
Relax with a scenic drive to Lake Taupo and enjoy a peaceful sunset. Consider an evening boat cruise on the lake for stunning views.
Kick off your day with a visit to the stunning Bay of Islands. Embark on a kayaking adventure or take a boat tour to explore the islands.
Relax on the pristine beaches or visit the charming town of Russell. Enjoy some locally caught seafood for lunch.
Wind down with a sunset sail around the bay. Take in the serene views of the surrounding islands as the sun sets.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural landscapes and biodiversity, including mountains, lakes, and beaches.
- High quality of life and a strong focus on environmental sustainability.
- Welcoming and friendly population, promoting a sense of community.
- Good healthcare system and education opportunities.
- Stable political environment and low levels of corruption.
- Geographical isolation which can make travel and import costs higher.
- Limited job opportunities in certain industries compared to larger countries.
- Higher cost of living in major cities like Auckland and Wellington.
- Natural hazards such as earthquakes and volcanic activity.
- Recent challenges with housing affordability and availability.
Best Activities in New Zealand
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the scenic trails and breathtaking landscapes of New Zealand through various hiking routes such as the Milford Track or Tongariro Alpine Crossing.
Experience the adrenaline rush by bungee jumping from iconic spots like the Kawarau Bridge or the Nevis Bungy.
Hit the slopes in popular ski resorts like Queenstown, Wanaka, or Mt Hutt during the winter season.
Paddle through the crystal-clear waters of New Zealand's lakes, rivers, and coastlines, such as the Abel Tasman National Park or the Milford Sound.
Explore the fascinating underground caves like Waitomo Caves, home to glowworms and limestone formations.
Tours
Uncover the best of New Zealand with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in New Zealand
Visit one of these nice places.
Breathtaking fjord with stunning waterfalls and dramatic cliffs that offers fantastic photo opportunities.
Known for its crystal-clear turquoise water and the iconic Church of the Good Shepherd, offering stunning views of the Southern Alps.
A popular trek with sweeping views of volcanic landscapes, emerald lakes, and rugged terrains, providing excellent photo opportunities.
Home to New Zealand's highest peak, Mount Cook, and offers exceptional views of snow-capped mountains, glaciers, and alpine landscapes.
Food in New Zealand
New Zealand Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Maori method of cooking that involves slow-cooking meat and vegetables in an underground oven. It's a must-try for experiencing Maori culture and can be found at Maori cultural centers or certain restaurants.
Must-Try!
A popular dessert consisting of a meringue base topped with cream and fresh fruit. Look for it in most pastry shops and traditional New Zealand cafes.
These large and flavorful mussels are a staple of New Zealand cuisine. They are commonly served steamed, in white wine sauce, or in seafood chowder and can be found in seafood restaurants and coastal areas.
Unique Experiences
Get to know New Zealand better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A vibrant market offering a wide range of international street food and local favorites. It's an excellent place to sample diverse cuisines in a lively atmosphere.
Known for its fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, and baked goods. It's perfect for exploring local ingredients and meeting passionate food producers.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In New Zealand, a traditional Maori greeting called the hongi involves pressing noses together. A handshake is also a common form of greeting in New Zealand, so it's important to wait for the other person to initiate the greeting to avoid any cultural misunderstanding.
Respect for the indigenous Maori culture is important in New Zealand. It's customary to show respect for Maori customs and beliefs, such as removing hats and shoes when entering a marae (Maori meeting grounds).
Punctuality is valued in New Zealand, so it's important to be on time for meetings and appointments. Arriving a few minutes early is considered polite and respectful.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of New Zealand with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in New Zealand
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not a common practice in New Zealand. It is not expected or required, but if someone wishes to show appreciation for exceptional service, a small tip may be given.
Payment in New Zealand is commonly done through electronic methods such as credit or debit cards, or bank transfers. Cash is also widely accepted. Mobile payment apps and online banking are becoming increasingly popular for transactions.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into New Zealand.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking, swimming, and beach visits. Warm temperatures and longer daylight hours.
Beautiful fall foliage with crisp, clear days. Perfect for wine tasting and scenic drives.
Great for skiing, snowboarding, and mountain activities. Also a good time for whale watching in certain areas.
Lively with blooming flowers and plenty of newborn animals. Suitable for outdoor adventures and exploring gardens.
New Zealand at Night
Hiking in New Zealand
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
One of New Zealand's most famous hikes, the Milford Track takes you through stunning landscapes, including lush rainforests, waterfalls, and valleys, leading to the spectacular Milford Sound.
Renowned for its dramatic volcanic landscapes, the Tongariro Alpine Crossing offers incredible views, emerald lakes, and a range of geological features. It's a full-day hike popular among locals and tourists alike.
A coastal hiking track that meanders through sandy beaches and lush forest, the Abel Tasman Coast Track is perfect for those looking for scenic views and the chance to relax by the ocean.
The Routeburn Track is a multi-day hike that traverses some of New Zealand's most breathtaking mountain scenery, including dramatic peaks, alpine lakes, and beautiful valleys.
Located in the Marlborough Sounds, the Queen Charlotte Track offers stunning views of the waterways, native bush, and wildlife. It can be hiked in sections or as a multi-day trek.
Nestled in Waiotapu, the Rim Walk offers a unique perspective on geothermal features including steaming lakes and vibrant mineral deposits, all framed by lush native vegetation.
An easy yet stunning hike that provides views of the Southern Alps and Aoraki/Mount Cook. The track leads you across several swing bridges and offers views of glacial lakes.
This three to four-day hike takes you around the stunning Lake Waikaremoana, featuring dense rainforest, scenic views, and a glimpse into the rich Maori history of the area.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into New Zealand through these rare and unique activities.
Airports
How to reach New Zealand by plane.
The largest and busiest airport in New Zealand, located in Auckland.
The second largest airport in New Zealand, located in Christchurch.
The main airport serving Wellington, the capital city of New Zealand.
A key airport serving Queenstown and the surrounding tourist regions.
A regional airport serving Hamilton and the surrounding areas.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Caucasian population, predominantly of British descent.
Indigenous Polynesian people of New Zealand.
Includes various ethnic groups such as Chinese, Indian, Korean, and others.
Includes communities from the Pacific Islands such as Samoa, Tonga, and Fiji.
A diverse group representing various ethnicities and cultures from these regions.
Includes individuals not categorized in the above groups.
The Soul of New Zealand
Discover the essence of New Zealand through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Rugby Union is the most popular sport in New Zealand, known for its passionate fan base and strong national team, the All Blacks, who are one of the most successful teams in the history of the sport.
Cricket is widely followed in New Zealand, with a strong domestic competition and a competitive national team known for their impressive performances in international tournaments.
Netball is exceptionally popular among women in New Zealand, with the national team, the Silver Ferns, being one of the top teams in the world.
Football is growing in popularity in New Zealand, with many grassroots clubs and a national team, the All Whites, competing on the international stage.
Rugby League is also popular, particularly in certain regions, with teams competing in both local leagues and the National Rugby League in Australia.
Basketball has seen significant growth in popularity in New Zealand, with a strong domestic league and a national team, the Breakers, that competes in Australia’s NBL.
Cycling, both recreationally and competitively, is popular in New Zealand, with many scenic routes and a vibrant community of cyclists.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most restaurants and cafes in New Zealand offer vegetarian and vegan dishes, and dedicated vegetarian restaurants are also becoming more common, especially in urban areas like Wellington and Auckland.
Many eateries are knowledgeable about gluten-free requirements, and gluten-free options are generally available. It's advisable to inform the staff about any dietary restrictions when dining out.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of New Zealand with these cultural adventures.
Healthcare
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting New Zealand.