7 top spots in New Zealand

The Champagne Lake

New Zealand is famous for its hot springs. While some have been developed into resorts, others remain untouched. The Champagne Lake at Wai-O-Tapu, Rotorua, on the northern island derives its name from the size of its bubbles. The colours, ranging from turquoise to orange, are due to the mineral salts in the water, which include gold, silver and arsenic.

Milford Sound

Dubbed the eighth wonder of the world by Rudyard Kipling, Milford Sound is a stunning fiord on the southern island. Thanks to heavy rainfall (it averages 182 days of rain a year, and a mean annual rainfall of almost 7 metres), it boasts magical waterfalls of over 1200m and rain-forest adorned cliff faces. The sea below is inhabited by penguins, seals, dolphins, and occasionally whales. You can explore by kayak, cruise ship or hiking.

Queenstown

Queenstown is a hot spot for adventure sports including skiing, snowboarding, paragliding and bungy jumping. Its picturesque slopes overlooking Lake Wakatipu attract tourists from all over the world, especially during winter. If you’re not a skier, Queenstown also has a reputation for great nightlife and provided the breathtaking scenery for Lord of the Rings.

Maori culture and the Tamaki Maori Village

The Maori culture is very much alive, from the traditional place names and greeting of ‘kia ora’, to the haka and various other Maori art forms. Tamaki Maori Village in Roturua forest offers visitors the chance to experience an authentic Maori village. You can also learn a lot about New Zealand’s Maori heritage from its museums and art galleries.

Waiheke Island

Just 35 minutes from Auckland by ferry, Waiheke Island is a peaceful escape, featuring beaches, forests, farmland, vineyards and olive groves. With such beautiful surroundings, there’s a wealth of things to do – nature walks, winery tours, kayaking... take your pick!

Wairarapa 

An hour’s drive from Wellington, the Wairarapa region is one of New Zealand’s best destinations for wining and dining. The central boutique town of Martinborough has more than 36 wineries, which are best explored by bike or on foot.

Christchurch

The devastating earthquake that shook Christchurch in February 2011 was one of the most intense the world has seen. Although the city is still feeling the aftershocks – both physical and social – Christchurch still has a lot to offer tourists. Known as the ‘Garden City’ for its numerous parks and gardens, Christchurch is one of New Zealand’s prettiest cities. Its English origins are evident in the historic trams and Gothic architecture.