10 Reasons New Zealand Should Be on Your Travel Bucket List
From its stunning lifestyle, exotic wildlife to its culture there is an ideal place for every travelers dream.
From adrenaline junkies to nature lovers to culture enthusiasts, New Zealand truly has something for everyone.
It is the reason the island country deserves high marks on your travel bucket list.
1. Otherworldly, Stunning Landscapes
New Zealand is known for its jaw-dropping natural beauty. The landscape, from the snow-capped tops of the Southern Alps to the azure-blue waters of Lake Tekapo, is surreal.
Milford Sound is part of Fiordland National Park, known for its impressive cliffs and flowing waterfalls that will take your breath away.
Don’t miss: Mount Cook, Tongariro National Park and Cathedral Cove.
2. Exciting Adventure Activities
Adventurists will love New Zealand, nicknamed the adventure capital of the world.
Bungee jumping in Queenstown? White-water rafting in Rotorua? Skydiving over Lake Wanaka? There are thrills here like nowhere else on earth.
Must do: Zorbing in Rotorua; jet boating in Shotover River; glacier hiking on Franz Josef Glacier.
3. Rich Maori Culture and History
New Zealand’s identity is intrinsically linked to the country’s indigenous Maori culture. Visitors can experience traditional Maori customs, art, and performances.
Places such as Rotorua also allow visitors to participate in a hangi feast, which uses a traditional Maori cooking method.
These can include: Cultural experiences: such as attending a Maori cultural performance or visiting the Waitangi Treaty Grounds.
4. Diverse Wildlife
New Zealand is known for its unique wildlife. The country is known for its kiwi bird, playful dolphins, fur seals and even penguins.
And you might see whales on a marine safari, if you’re lucky.
Wildlife hotspots: Kaikoura for whale watching; Otago Peninsula for albatross colonies; Stewart Island for kiwi spotting
5. The Lord of the Rings and Hobbiton
Fans of The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit can enter Middle-earth by visiting movie sets and filming locations.
But thankfully if there’s any spot on the North Island that truly puts you into different worlds, Hobbiton in Matamata does magic.
Where it was filmed: Tongariro National Park as Mordor, Fiordland as Fangorn Forest and Hobbiton Movie Set.
6. World-Class Hiking Trails
New Zealand just has some of the best hiking in the world! The Great Walks include the Milford Track and Abel Tasman Coast Track, and feature breathtaking views and varied landscapes.
Beginners: Hooker Valley Track and Lake Waikaremoana Track.
For experienced trekkers: Routeburn Track and Tongariro Alpine Crossing.
7. Lively Cities with a Relaxed Vibe
The cities in New Zealand are the perfect blend of urban sophistication and laid-back living. Auckland, the “City of Sails,” has harborside dining and adventure.
Wellington, the capital city, has an artsy and fun nightlife.
Don’t miss: Christchurch’s avant-garde architecture and Queenstown’s buzzing activity hubs.
8. Delicious Food and Wine
New Zealand’s fresh, farm-to-table fare will appeal to foodies. The country is equally well-known for its fine wines including the world-famous Sauvignon Blanc from the Marlborough region.
Local specialties include green-lipped mussels, hokey pokey ice cream and traditional Maori hangi meals.
Great wine regions: Hawke’s Bay, Marlborough and Central Otago.
9. Warm and Welcoming Locals
New Zealanders, also known as “Kiwis,” are among the friendliest people you will ever meet. They are friendly and accommodating, and traveling in New Zealand is easy.
There are multiple situations where a traveler is given a bed in a home like a family member.
Make friends with the locals, find out the best places to eat, things to do and visit.
10. Reliable Access and Travel Safety
New Zealand is the safest place for solo travelers, couple, and even family.
The roads, public transport and signage are immaculate so getting around the country is easy and hassle free.
How to get around: Hire a campervan to take a road trip, so you can stop at scenic spots along the way.
Conclusion
New Zealand is not only a destination; it is an experience.
The country has an endless amount of reasons to visit — from dramatic landscapes and adventure activities to rich culture and warm locals.
Whether you’re hoping to hike through majestic mountains, dive into Maori traditions, or wander through colorful cities, you can’t go wrong with a visit to New Zealand.
They say the best things in life are free, but pack your bags because New Zealand is just waiting to be crossed off your bucket list for a trip of a lifetime!
