Places To Visit In New Zealand For An Unforgettable Vacation

A country nestled in the Southwestern Pacific Ocean, New Zealand is a paradise that welcome travelers from all around the world. From giant glaciers and sweeping mountain ranges to amazing wildlife and hidden wonders, one can find numerous top places to visit in New Zealand while on a vacation.

In fact, as the popularity of New Zealand is growing amongst travelers with time, the country is set to receive a staggering 5.1 million International visitors by 2024. So, if you're a traveler planning your next potential vacation in New Zealand, we have compiled a detailed round-up of some top places that one can visit in this part of the world.

Top 8 Places To Visit In New Zealand

Have a look at the finest locations that you can visit on your grand escape to New Zealand.

1.Auckland

Recognized by travelers as one of the most gorgeous cities in the world, Auckland is nestled in a picturesque part of New Zealand and boasts of its numerous attractions like beaches, markets, art galleries, scenery and so much more. From magnificent rainforests, wineries and hot springs to the best of skyscrapers and as they say, "The Big City Life", Auckland has everything one can possibly dream of.

The best part? This is a city that has been voted as one of the best places in the world to live in and is the primary hub for air travel in the country, eventually making it one of the top tourist attractions in New Zealand.

Best Time to Visit: From March to May and September to November

How to Reach:

By Air - There are not many direct flights available to Auckland. However, visitors can book connecting flights without any hassle. Just about every airline today flies to Auckland.
By Road - Traveling to Auckland by road isn't a hassle as New Zealand has some of the finest road and local transport systems in the world. Carriers alike SkyBus, Northern Busway, InnerLink Bus, and Citylink offer regular buses to and from the city.
By Train - Auckland Transport runs an underground railway network which is one of the best ways to reach Auckland.

Ideal Duration of Stay: 3 days

Nearest Airport: The Auckland Airport is 32 Km from the main city.

Popular Attractions: Albert Park; Auckland Harbour Bridge; Auckland Zoo; Kelly Tarton's Sea Life Aquarium; Sky Tower Auckland

Top Things to Do: Kayak or hike to Rangitoto Island; Visit Waiheke Island; Explore Auckland Central; Explore Hauraki Gulf; Explore Farmers' Market in Matakana

Best Places to Stay: Delamore Lodge; Sofitel Auckland Viaduct Harbour; Hilton Auckland; Marino Ridge; Cordis Auckland

Best Shopping Markets: Sylvia Park; Britomart; Westfield St Lukes; Westfield Albany; LynnMall

2. Christchurch

A city nestled on the east coast of New Zealand's South Island, Christchurch has all the attributes to be one of the best places to go in New Zealand. This is a city that boasts of its heritage and urban marvels. One can either feel the essence of England in its various botanical gardens or head over to the various museums and galleries to catch a glimpse of the Maori history in detail.

What's more? Christchurch is even home to some creative ventures and is a perfect place for adventure lovers owing to its attractions like beaches, rivers and even a vast range of food and drink choices.

Best Time to Visit: December to March

How to Reach:

By Air - The Christchurch International Airport is a major transit gateway for travelers coming from many popular destinations. One can easily book a flight to Christchurch.
By Road - Visitors can arrive in Christchurch through the State Highway One that passes through the edge of the city.
By Train - Travelers can opt for the TranzAlpine rail network that runs between Greymouth and Christchurch.

Ideal Duration of Stay: 3 days

Nearest Airport: The Christchurch International Airport is located a mere 11 Km away from the main city.

Popular Attractions: Port Hills, Canterbury Museums; International Antarctic Center; Orana Wildlife Park; Christchurch Art Gallery

Top Things to Do: Riding the TranzAlpine; Experience Wildlife; Picnic at Jellie Park Recreation and Sports Centre; Caterpillar Bus Tour; Ride the Christchurch Gondola

Best Places to Stay: Sudima Christchurch City; The Establishment; The George; Heritage Christchurch; Rydges Latimer Christchurch

Best Shopping Markets: Christchurch Farmers' Market; Opawa Farmers' Market; Riverside Market; Riccarton House; Lyttelton Farmers' Market

3. Wellington

Widely recognized as the "Windy City" and the country's cultural capital, Wellington is one of the best places to visit in New Zealand today and offers a perfect holiday experience to the visitors. From the finest of restaurants that serve mouth-watering delicacies and drinks to the most scenic mountains and harbor that visitors can see, Wellington has a lot to be admired about.

The best part? This is a city that is home to some of the best museums and theatres that are a real delight for the travelers visiting on a holiday. In fact, the world-famous Te Papa Museum is located in Wellington.

Best Time to Visit: December to February

How to Reach:

By Air - The Wellington International Airport is located just 3 miles away from the center of the city and is well connected with all cities in the country as well as popular international destinations.
By Road - Traveling between Wellington and other cities of New Zealand isn't a big hassle. There are bus services available to the city while travelers can also drive themselves. However, driving in winters can be a little tricky due to the snow. Hence, travelers need to be vary of that.
By Train - There are regular trains between Palmerston North and Masterton to Wellington that travelers can opt for and travel without much hassle.

Ideal Duration of Stay: 2-3 days

Nearest Airport: The Wellington International Airport is just 3 miles away from the center of the city.

Popular Tourist Attractions: Parliament House; Mount Victoria; Carter Observatory; Wellington Cable Car; St James theatre

Top Things to Do: Ride Wellington Cable Car; Discover Stories at Te Papa; Wildlife Experience at Zealandia Ecosanctuary; Picnic at Mount Victoria; Explore Wellington's Waterfront

Best Places to Stay: Bolton Hotel; Ohtel; DoubleTree by Hilton Wellington; Sofitel Wellington; Intercontinental Wellington

Best Shopping Markets: Cuba Street; Harbourside Market; Weta Cave; Wellington Underground Market; Tinakori Road

4. Queenstown

Rooted in a picturesque setting in the country, Queenstown is one of the top tourist attractions in New Zealand for nature lovers and mountaineers. The city boasts of its eye-catching landscapes, gorgeous mountains, and so much more. As the natives and travelers themselves put it, Queenstown is, perhaps, the "Adventure Capital of New Zealand."

From the thrills of zip lining and bungee jumping to the finest of bars, wineries and restaurants for your delight, this is a city that has it all. What's more? One can even go skiing on the mountains or tee in for a soothing stroll around the shores of Lake Wakatipu, the holiday experience doesn't get any better in Queenstown.

Best Time to Visit: December to March

How to Reach:

By Air - The Queenstown International Airport is well connected with the cities of New Zealand and Australia alongside many others. One can catch a glimpse of the snow-capped mountains while traveling to or from the airport.
By Road - Queenstown is well connected with cities like Christchurch from where travelers can take a 6-hour drive to reach the city. Alternatively, there are many tourist bus companies to run bu services to and from Queenstown.
By Train - There is no railway connectivity in Queenstown and travelers have to rely on the road or air travel.

Ideal Duration of Stay: 3 days

Nearest Airport: The Queenstown International Airport is 8.1 Km from the heart of the city.

Popular Attractions: Lake Wakatipu; Kawarau Bridge; Arrowtown; Vineyards of Central Otago; Routeburn

Top Things to Do: Cycling along Lake Wakatipu; Heli Tour; Fishing at Lake Wakatipu; Wine Tasting at Central Otago Vineyards; Ziplining

Best Places to Stay: Azur Luxury Lodge; Sofitel Queenstown- Hotel & Spa; Hilton Queenstown Resort & Spa; The Rees Hotel; QT Queenstown

Best Shopping Markets: Remarkables Market; Raeward Fresh Queenstown; Wanaka Farmers Market; Cromwell Farmers’ and Craft Market; Wanaka Sunday Craft Market

5. Bay of Islands

One of the top places to visit in New Zealand, Bay of Islands is a bay of more than 140 subtropical islands that looks mesmerizing and offer a range of thrilling adventures to enjoy including yachts and sailing boats. Bay of Islands can be easily reached in around three hours from Auckland and the drive is itself a great experience as you will be rewarded with enthralling views. The bay is also rich in marine life like whales, dolphins, penguins and exotic variety of fishes which means you can enjoy several adventures here like fishing, snorkeling, diving and many more. Hiking can also be enjoyed to nearby island trails, kayaking along the coast and also bird watching.

Best Time to Visit: February to March

How to Reach: The best way to reach Bay of Islands is by taking a drive from Auckland along the east coast highway. It will take around 3 hours for you to reach Bay of Islands from Auckland.

Ideal Duration of Stay: 2 Days

Nearest Airport: Kerikeri Airport

Popular Attractions: Bay of Islands Maritime Park, Russell, Paihia, Glow Worms of the Kawiti Caves, Ninety Mile Beach, Kororipo Pa, Cape Reinga

Things to Do: Hiking, sailing, snorkeling, kayaking, fishing, diving

Places to Stay: The Clendon, Donkey Bay Inn, Scenic Hotel Bay of Islands, Paihia Beach House B and B, Russell Seaview Studios

Best Shopping Markets: Bay of Islands Farmer’s Market, Old Packhouse Market, Paihia Art & Craft Market

6. Coromandel Peninsula

Our list of best places in New Zealand will not be complete without the mention of Coromandel Peninsula which is a natural gem of nature away from city’s hustle and bustle. The beaches here are gorgeous and known for their natural beauty where myriad of adventures can be enjoyed. For all those who love peace and seclusion, we are sure you are going to love the natural charm of this place. Bask on the golden sandy beaches, hike the craggy mountains, or go for offshore island kayaking for a fun and an adventurous holiday experience in Coromandel peninsula. It is a great place for couples hence, can be added to the list of best honeymoon places in the world.

Best Time to Visit: September to November

How to Reach: Nearest airport to Coromandel Peninsula is Auckland Airport, local flight takes around 30 minutes. Alternatively, you can also take bus or hire a car to reach Coromandel Peninsula from Auckland which will take around 1.5 hours.

Ideal Duration of Stay: 3 Days

Nearest Airport: Auckland Airport

Popular Attractions: Cathedral Cove, Hauraki Rail Trail, the Pinnacles, Thermal Wonderland, New Chum beach, Shorebird Coast, Mt. Paku, Cooks Beach, Karangahake Gorge

Things to Do: Enjoy bird watching at Shorebird Coast, stroll through the art galleries, take a ferry ride, enjoy cycling along the Hauraki Rail Trail

Places to Stay: Tatahi Lodge Beach Resort, Beachfront Resort, Tatahi Lodge Beach Resort, Grand Mercure Puka Park Resort, Cotswold Cottage

Best Shopping Markets: The Coromandel Smoking Co., Heaven & Earth

7. Waiheke Island

For all the wine lovers, Waiheke Island is the place to as the island is brimmed with several vineyards, so going for a wine tasting session is one of the best things to do at Waiheke Island. The island has become a hot weekend getaway spot for locals and tourists alike as they come here to enjoy island’s tropical climate, vineyard tours, stroll through the gorgeous beaches and indulge in several adventure sports. You can take a guided tour to vineyards in Waiheke Island and relish the taste of 14 different types of wines. Not just this, the scenic beaches and the tropical forests make Waiheke Island one of the most amazing places to see in New Zealand.

Best Time to Visit: April

How to Reach: The best way to reach the island is by taking a ferry ride from Downtown Auckland. It takes around 35-minutes to reach the island from here. Alternatively, you can also take a seaplane to reach the island.

Ideal Duration of Stay: 1 to 2 Days

Nearest Airport: Auckland Airport

Popular Attractions: Waiheke Community Art Gallery, Rangihoua Mountain Bike Trails, Oneroa Bay, Palm Beach, Enclosure Bay, Hauraki Gulf, Rangihoua Estate, Sculpture Park

Things to Do: Go for wine tours, enjoy on the scenic beaches, explore art galleries, enjoy hiking tours

Places to Stay: Enclosure Bay - Luxury Small Hotel - B&B, Delamore Lodge, Waiheke Waterfront Lodge, Te Whau Lodge

Best Shopping Markets: Countdown Waiheke, Waiheke Ostend Market

8. White Island

Best place to visit in New Zealand for a sight of active volcanoes is definitely White Island which is a gem of nature. Since the sight is the most active volcano in the country, travelers need to wear hard hats and gas masks here for safety purposes. You can also take a helicopter ride over the White Island to witness gorgeous views of the volcanic landscape. It is one of the best places to visit for people who love dramatic landscapes and photography. Enjoy an array of adventures here like snorkeling to witness the vents of volcanoes under the water.

Best Time to Visit: September to April

How to Reach: If you want to travel via air, then you can take a flight from Tauranga Airport and reach the island in 30 minutes. Alternatively, you can also hire a car or take a bus from cities like Auckland to reach White Island.

Ideal Duration of Stay: 1 Day

Nearest Airport: Whakatāne Airport

Things to Do: Take a scenic helicopter tour, scuba diving to see underwater vents of volcanoes

Places to Stay Near White Island: Te Kaha Beach Resort, Tuscany Villas Whakatane, Whakatane Hotel, Airi Kainga - Seaside Escape

Best Shopping Markets: N/A

A country that boasts of its picturesque locations and numerous attractions for nature and adventure lovers, travelers can find numerous places to visit in New Zealand that not only surprise but also enlighten in a number of ways. From the magnificent rainforests and wineries of Auckland to the best of adventures in Queenstown, there is a lot to look forward to in this part of the world. So, if you're a traveler planning your next potential holiday in New Zealand, why not explore the country by beginning with the finest locations mentioned above?

FAQs

Q1. What is the best month to go to New Zealand?

The best time to travel to New Zealand is during the Spring Season (September to October) and Autumn Season (March to May) when the weather is favorable for exploring the country.

Q2. How many days do you need in New Zealand?

As believed by many travelers, 14 days should be the minimum time frame to spend a vacation in both the South and North Island of New Zealand.

Q3. What is the cheapest month to fly to New Zealand?

May is considered to be the cheapest month to fly to New Zealand for a vacation. This is a time when the flight fares lower than the rest of the year.

Q4. What can I buy in Auckland?

Travelers can find a wide range of souvenirs and other things in Auckland like Ceramic Pukekos, Swanndri, Wooden Buzzy Bees, Paua Shell Ashtrays, Sheepskin Rugs, Manuka Honey, and so much more.

Q5. What are the top attractions to visit in Auckland Central?

There are many tourist attractions in Auckland that travelers can explore on their holiday. Some of them include the SkyTower, Auckland Museum, Mount Eden, Rangitoto Island, Waiheke Island, and many more.

Q6. Is Wellington safe at night?

Yes, Wellington is safe for travelers at night. However, one should be vigilant while roaming around the streets.

Q7. Is Wellington worth visiting?

Yes, Wellington is one of the best cities to visit in New Zealand. In fact, one can find the finest craft beer in the city which attracts travelers from all around the world.

Q8. How much spending money do I need for Queenstown?

Although the expenditure may vary from traveler to traveler, a week-long holiday in Queenstown usually costs around NZ$950 for one person.

Q9. What is Queenstown best known for?

Queenstown is world-renowned for its adventure activities that travelers get to try here. In fact, it is even called the "Adventure Capital" of New Zealand.

Q10. What are the top sightseeing places in Christchurch?

Some of the best sightseeing places in Christchurch are -