25 Unmissable New Zealand Tourist Attractions

New Zealand is a land filled with vineyards, massive mountain ranges and pristine beaches. The country offers breathtaking landscapes and top rated tourist attractions, many of which are nature-made. It’s what makes New Zealand the perfect place to unplug, get outside, refuel your mind and leave the stress behind.  

From the majestic fjords of Milford Sound to the rich cultural experiences of Rotorua, the country offers a diverse array of experiences that showcase its stunning natural beauty and unique Māori culture. 

There’s plenty to do around this gorgeous country, so strap in and get ready for an adventure-filled trip full of stunning natural landscapes, rich cultural experiences and unique attractions you won’t find anywhere else.

This guide to the top New Zealand tourist attractions, along with our guide on the best places to visit in New Zealand and these charming small towns, will help you plan your next New Zealand itinerary. 

Read on to discover the best sights and top attractions in New Zealand that make this island nation a must-visit destination on any travel bucket list!

» Looking for more inspiration along the route? Check out our guides to Auckland, Milford Sound and Queenstown. Find the best foods to try, tips for renting a car in New Zealand and the best time to visit. 

» Check out these top tips for visiting New Zealand

Top 10 New Zealand Tourist Attractions

1. Milford Sound Cruise

Often referred to as one of the most beautiful places in the world, Milford Sound is a must-see place for any visitor to the country. It features dramatic fjords, towering cliffs, and cascading waterfalls.

Visitors can explore the area by boat, kayak, or hiking the nearby trails.

It’s the only fjord in New Zealand that is accessible by road and the drive to Milford Sound is one of the most scenic roads in the country. Given the lack of accommodation options in Milford Sound, most visitors stay in Te Anau or Queenstown and visit Milford Sound for the day. 

A Milford Sound cruise is the best way to experience the whole length of fjord as you glide past thundering waterfalls and jagged cliff faces. If you’re lucky you might even see wildlife such as seals, dolphins and sea birds. 

» Try this tour: Queenstown: Milford Sound Coach & Cruise Full-Day Trip

2. Glowworm Caves

Glowworms are fascinating creatures known for their bioluminescent properties, which they use to attract prey in dark environments, such as caves and forests. They are not actually worms like their name suggests, but the larval stage of certain species of insect, most notably the Arachnocampa genus (a fungus gnat) found in New Zealand and Australia. 

The light produced by glowworms is a result of a chemical reaction within their bodies. This soft, blue-green light emitted by the glowworms creates a magical ambiance in the locations where they reside.

The Waitomo Caves in the Waikato region of New Zealand is one of the most famous locations to see them. Visitors can take guided tours through these caves to witness the stunning sight of thousands of glowworms illuminating the dark cave, creating a truly enchanting experience.

The 12,000 year old caves in Te Anau is another top place to see glowworms in New Zealand. Te Anau is the nearest town to Milford Sound and a great opportunity to combine two of New Zealand’s top attractions.

» Try this tour: Hobbiton Movie Set and Waitomo Glowworm Caves Guided Day Trip from Auckland

3. Hobbiton Movie Set

Hobbiton is a movie set located in the Matamata region of New Zealand, famous for its depiction of the Shire, the idyllic homeland of the Hobbits in J.R.R. Tolkien’s “The Lord of the Rings” and “The Hobbit” film trilogies. It has become one of New Zealand’s top tourist attractions, drawing fans of Tolkien’s work from around the world.

Even non-fans can appreciate the meticulously designed set featuring charming hobbit holes, lush gardens, and the iconic Green Dragon Inn, all nestled in a picturesque landscape of rolling hills and farmland.

Visitors to Hobbiton can take guided tours of the set, where you can explore the intricately detailed hobbit holes, learn about the filmmaking process, and immerse yourself in the captivating world of Middle-earth. The tours typically include stops at key locations, such as Bag End (the home of Bilbo and Frodo Baggins), the party tree, various other Hobbit homes and finishes with a drink at the Green Dragon Inn.

» Try this tour: Hobbiton Movie Set Small Group Tour from Auckland

4. Wine Tasting 

New Zealand is renowned for its exceptional wines and picturesque vineyards, making it a fantastic destination for wine tasting. Here are some of the best areas to explore for wine enthusiasts:

Marlborough: This region is the largest wine-producing area in New Zealand, famous for its Sauvignon Blanc. The scenic vineyards, such as Cloudy Bay and Wither Hills, offer tastings and tours, often paired with stunning views of the surrounding mountains and waterways. 

Hawke’s Bay: Although known for its rich, full-bodied reds, particularly Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon, Hawke’s Bay produces a wide variety of wines and is home to some of the oldest vineyards in the country. Enjoy this Hawkes Bay Wine Tour to sample some of the best wines in the region.

Central Otago: Renowned for its Pinot Noir, Central Otago boasts breathtaking landscapes and a unique climate that contributes to the quality of its wines. Wineries such as Felton Road and Mt. Difficulty offer tastings with stunning views of the vineyards and mountains.

Waiheke Island: Just a short ferry ride from Auckland, Waiheke Island is a paradise for wine lovers, known for its boutique wineries and stunning coastal scenery. Personal favorites include Mudbrick Vineyard and Cable Bay Vineyard which provide tastings and dining options with breathtaking views of the Hauraki Gulf.

Martinborough: Located in the Wairarapa region, Martinborough is celebrated for its Pinot Noir and boutique wineries. The compact nature of the region makes it easy to explore multiple wineries in one day.

5. Mount Cook National Park

Mount Cook National Park is one of the most-visited National Parks in New Zealand. It’s an absolute masterpiece of scenic landscapes, mountains, valleys, rivers and stunning glacial lakes. 

The park is home to New Zealand’s highest mountain peak, the mighty Aoraki/Mt Cook, which draws hikers and nature-lovers from all over the world. Mount Cook is also part of The Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve – a top destination for stargazing and astrophotography. 

Hiking the Hooker Valley Track is one of the best ways to experience Mount Cook National Park. This relatively easy 5 kilometer (3.1 mile) track takes you through the Hooker Valley, along the Hooker River, over swing bridges and ultimately to Hooker Lake, a stunning glacial lake with icebergs and, on a clear day, incredible views of Aoraki/Mount Cook. 

There’s a range of other trails and scenic viewpoints around the park, from easy to advanced, and ranging from 20 minutes to a full day. 

If you don’t have your own wheels, you can book this day trip from Queenstown to Mt Cook for the ultimate trip. 

6. Maori Cultural Experience 

A Māori cultural experience is a must-do offering visitors a unique opportunity to learn the rich traditions, customs, history and beliefs of the Māori people, the indigenous inhabitants of New Zealand. 

These experiences can vary but often include a Welcome Ceremony (Pōwhiri), performances that showcase traditional Māori songs (waiata), a cermonial war dance (haka), and storytelling, plus a traditional Māori hangi feast which involves cooking food in an underground oven using heated stones and traditional Māori arts and crafts, such as weaving (raranga), carving (whakairo). 

These cultural experiences can be found in various locations, particularly on the North Island, including Rotorua, Auckland, and the Bay of Islands.

Rotorua is one of the best places in New Zealand to participate in a cultural experience, with a variety of experiences to choose from. Mitai Māori Village and Te Pā Tū are both fantastic options offering an immersive evening in a beautiful setting. While the Whakarewarewa Living Māori Village offers guided tours through an authentic living Māori village set on a geothermal valley.

7. Wai-O-Tapu Geothermal Wonderland

Wai-O-Tapu Geothermal Wonderland is an exciting geothermal park located near Rotorua where visitors can explore the diverse geothermal attractions and unique landscapes shaped by volcanic activity.  

There is a series of well maintained walking trails leading to hot springs, bubbling mud pools and volcanic craters. The park is especially famous for its vibrant geothermal pools, such as the Champagne Pool, with its striking orange and blue colors and the Devil’s Bath, which features an eerie green hue.

Wai-O-Tapu is also home to the Lady Knox Geyser, which erupts daily at around 10:15 AM. This geyser can shoot water up to 20 meters (about 65 feet) into the air, providing an impressive display.

Be sure to stop in at the park’s visitor center where you can learn more about the geology and history of the area through informative displays and exhibits.

8. Tongariro National Park

This UNESCO World Heritage site is New Zealand’s oldest national park known for its volcanic landscapes, including the famous Tongariro Alpine Crossing, one of the best day hikes in the world. The park features stunning lakes, craters, and diverse ecosystems.

Located in the central North Island, the park is home to several active volcanoes, including Mount Tongariro, Mount Ngauruhoe, and Mount Ruapehu. These majestic peaks offer dramatic scenery and are popular among hikers and climbers.

The Tongariro Alpine Crossing is one of New Zealand’s most famous day hikes. This challenging trek takes hikers through volcanic craters, emerald lakes, ancient lava flows and for LOTR fans – Mt Doom! The walk takes about 7-9 hours in total and is walked as a one-way track. Shuttles can be booked for return transportation. 

There’s a range of other hiking trails in the park that are shorter but with equally stunning scenery including the Tama Lakes Walk (6 hours), Taranaki Falls Walk (1 hour) and Tawhai Falls, aka Gollum’s Pool (5 minutes).

In addition to hiking, Tongariro National Park is a popular destination for skiing and snowboarding during the winter months, particularly at Mount Ruapehu, which features several ski resorts.

9. Dolphin & Whale Watching 

Dolphin and whale watching is a top attraction in New Zealand due to the country’s unique marine environment and diverse species. New Zealand’s waters are home to a variety of whale species, including sperm whales, humpback whales, orcas (killer whales), and southern right whales along with several dolphin species like the common dolphin, bottlenose dolphin and Hector’s dolphin (the world’s smallest and rarest).

Kaikoura, on the South Island, is particularly famous for seeing marine wildlife and offers some of the best whale watching experiences in the world. There’s also a beautiful coastal walk that leads to the Kaikoura seal colony. Other notable spots for dolphin and whale watching include the Bay of Islands and the Hauraki Gulf on the North Island.

The other great thing is that you can see dolphins and whales in New Zealand year-round, with different species of whales being more prominent during various seasons. For example, sperm whales and dusky dolphins can be seen throughout the year in Kaikoura, while humpback whales and orcas migrate through the region during certain months.

» Try this tour: Whale Watching in Kaikoura by Boat

10. Franz Josef Glacier 

Franz Josef Glacier is one of New Zealand’s most famous glaciers, located in Westland Tai Poutini National Park on the West Coast of the South Island. Franz Josef Glacier is notable for its close proximity to the town of Franz Josef, making it one of the most accessible glaciers in the world. Visitors can easily reach the glacier’s terminal face via short walking tracks.

The glacier is approximately 12 kilometers (7.5 miles) long and descends from the Southern Alps to a temperate rainforest. It features dramatic ice formations, crevasses, and seracs, creating an impressive landscape. 

There are various guided tours available including glacier hikes, ice climbing, and scenic helicopter tours. A heli-hike tour is the only way to walk on the glacier, while a scenic flight provides a unique perspective of Franz Josef Glacier, showing its full size and shape, along with the beautiful landscapes of the Southern Alps.

» Try this tour: Franz Josef Glacier Heli-Hike

More Fantastic Tourist Attractions in New Zealand

If this list of the top 10 New Zealand tourist attractions wasn’t enough for you, don’t worry there’s more! I mean, there are literally dozens of things to do in New Zealand, but I wanted to give you the very best first so if you’re short on time, you don’t have to make too many decisions. Just go and have fun. 

11. Queenstown

Although technically a destination, the beautiful resort town of Queenstown is known as the adventure capital of New Zealand and a top attraction in itself. The stunning alpine landscapes and adrenaline-pumping activities such as bungee jumping, skydiving, and skiing attract visitors and locals alike.

The town also offers beautiful lakeside views and a vibrant dining scene. It’s an ideal base for a weekend away or the starting point for a South Island road trip.

There’s also lots of tours that you can take as day trips from Queenstown to nearby attractions such as Milford Sound, Mount Cook National Park and Gibbston Valley wine region.

12. Roys Peak 

The Roys Peak track is one of the most popular hikes in New Zealand due to its breathtaking panoramic views of the Southern Alps and Lake Wanaka. This challenging hike spans approximately 16 kilometers (10 miles) rewarding hikers with stunning vistas from the famous lookout point and the summit. 

The start of the track is located just a short drive from the charming town of Wanaka. Although the well-maintained gravel trail is easy to follow, the real challenge comes from the continuous uphill climb.

With its combination of stunning scenery, a well-defined path, and the sense of accomplishment upon reaching the summit, the Roys Peak Hike is must-do activity for hikers visiting the South Island of New Zealand.

13. Whakarewarewa Redwoods Forest

The Whakarewarewa Redwoods Forest, located near Rotorua, is home to many towering Californian redwood trees, some of them standing over 60 meters (197 feet) tall and covering over 55,000ha. This premier spot offers a range of walking and mountain biking trails that meander through the towering trees. 

I especially like the Redwoods Treewalk, where you can walk along the forest canopy on a series of suspended walkways. At night, lanterns and art installations light up the forest for an enchanting experience.

Whether you want to head there for a hike, to marvel at the massive redwoods, or just find some serenity, this park offers it all.

14. Geothermal Hot Pools 

Geothermal hot pools are natural hot springs that are heated by the Earth’s geothermal activity. The mineral-rich waters provide a relaxing and therapeutic experience. These hot pools can be found in various locations across the country, particularly in regions like Rotorua and Taupo, where volcanic activity is prevalent. 

Many geothermal pools are part of larger geothermal parks. In Rotorua, Hells Gate and the Polynesian Spa are two popular spots to enjoy a soak in geothermal waters.

Hell’s gate is a geothermal reserve that you can walk around before hopping in their outdoor thermal mud bath and sulphur spa. Whereas the Polynesian Spa is a large complex offering a variety of bathing pools, including mineral hot pools overlooking Lake Rotorua.

15. Hot Water Beach

Hot Water Beach is one of New Zealand’s most famous beaches, where you can dig your own hot pool during low tide due to geothermal activity below the sand. The best time to visit is two hours either side of low tide. You can hire a small shovel (spade) from the local shop or bring your own. 

Just be prepared for crowds. This unique natural attraction located on the Coromandel Peninsula has people from all over flocking to the beach during low tide. 

16. Cathedral Cove

An iconic landmark also located on the Coromandel Peninsula, this little piece of paradise features a picturesque archway that connects two beautiful beaches, Cathedral Cove and Mare’s Leg Cove, framed by towering cliffs and lush native vegetation.

Its serene beauty and tranquil atmosphere have made it a favorite among both locals and tourists, as well as a filming location for various movies, including “The Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian.”

Although usually accessible by a scenic walking track or by boat, the walking track is currently closed due to storm damage. There is a water taxi that runs from nearby Hahei Beach, no booking required. Both Hahei Beach and Cathedral Cove are fantastic spots for swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, and photography. 

17. Auckland Sky Tower

The 328 meter high (1076 feet) Auckland Sky Tower is the best place to go if you feel like getting stellar panoramic views of Auckland and the Hauraki Gulf.

This prominent landmark in the city’s skyline and top Auckland attraction features three viewing platforms at the top of the tower, plus a cafe and a couple of restaurants where you can dine with a view.

If you’re a thrill seeker, the SkyJump and SkyWalk provide an opportunity to bungy jump from New Zealand’s highest building or walk around a platform on the outside of the tower from 192 meters up! 

18. Piha Beach

Piha Beach is a stunning black sand beach located on the west coast of Auckland, renowned for its dramatic scenery, powerful surf, and rugged coastal landscape. The strong waves make it a favorite spot for experienced surfers, while the iconic Lion Rock, a prominent volcanic formation, offers breathtaking views of the coastline from its summit. 

The surrounding lush native forest of the Waitakere Ranges is home to scenic walking trails and cascading waterfalls, where you can enjoy activities like hiking and exploring the natural beauty of the area. 

It’s a 45-minute drive from Auckland city center or you can take this Afternoon Piha Beach and Rainforest Tour from Auckland.

19. Rangitoto Island 

Rangitoto Island is a volcanic island located just off the coast of Auckland, with a distinctive symmetrical cone shape and rugged lava fields. Formed approximately 600 years ago, it is the youngest and largest volcano in the Auckland volcanic field, offering outdoor enthusiasts a chance to explore its unique landscape. 

A ferry from downtown Auckland gets you access to the island, and a well-known track leads to the volcano’s summit where panoramic views of the Hauraki Gulf and Auckland skyline will reward you for your effort. Rangitoto is also home to diverse flora and fauna, including unique species of pōhutukawa trees, making it a significant ecological area. 

For the ultimate adventure try this Sunset Kayak Tour to Rangitoto Island. 

20. Bay of Islands

Located on the north-eastern coast of the North Island, the Bay of Islands is an absolute gem featuring over 140 islands, hidden coves, beautiful sandy beaches and the iconic hole in the rock. It’s also a top spot in New Zealand to see marine life such as dolphins and whales.

The best way for visitors to experience this marine paradise is by going on a boat cruise. There are a variety of tour operators to choose from and most will take you around the isles and past or through (weather permitting) the hole in the rock. We like this Hole in the Rock Bay of Island Cruise which includes a stop at one of the remote islands. 

21. Te Papa Museum

Te Papa is the national museum of New Zealand, located in Wellington. The museum features a diverse range of exhibits that encompass Māori culture, New Zealand’s colonial past, and the country’s unique biodiversity. There’s plenty of interactive displays and immersive experiences, including an earthquake simulation.

With its stunning architecture, extensive collections, and regular events and exhibitions, Te Papa plays a crucial role in preserving and promoting New Zealand’s cultural identity and heritage, making it a must-visit destination for both locals and tourists. 

Admission to Te Papa is free, although charges may apply for some short-term exhibitions and special events.

22. Abel Tasman National Park

Abel Tasman National Park, located at the northern end of New Zealand’s South Island, is made up of pristine golden beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush coastal landscapes. It’s a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.

One of the park’s main attractions is the Abel Tasman Coast Track, a New Zealand Great Walk that winds its way along the coastline, offering stunning views of the ocean, secluded coves, and native bush. Most people walk the full 60 km track in 3-5 days. Huts and campsites need to be booked in advance. 

If you’re not up for a multi-day walk you can enjoy parts of the track as a day walk and access some of the finest golden sand beaches in the country by kayak or water taxi from the towns of Marahau and Kaiteriteri. 

23. Marlborough Sounds

The Marlborough Sounds are a stunning network of sea-drowned valleys located at the northern tip of New Zealand’s South Island, characterized by its 1500 km of intricate coastline, lush green hills, and sheltered bays. It’s one of the most beautiful parts of the South Island.

This picturesque region includes several sounds, such as Queen Charlotte Sound, Kenepuru Sound, and Pelorus Sound, with breathtaking views and a diverse range of marine life, including five species of dolphins, fur seals, and various bird species. Going on a cruise or guided kayak tour starting from Picton is the best way to explore the elaborate network of bays and inlets.

There are plenty of other recreational activities on offer, including boating, fishing, and hiking, with the Queen Charlotte Track being a popular walking trail that showcases the area’s natural beauty. 

24. Lake Tekapo

Lake Tekapo is a small, visually stunning town in the South Island. It’s also the name of the glacial lake on which the town sits that has the most vibrant and stunning turquoise-blue water. With snow-capped mountains as the backdrop and a quaint stone church perched on its shores, it feels as though you’ve stepped inside a postcard. 

Although the town and lake on their own make this a must-visit destination year round, it’s the lupins that draw a crowd. From late November through December, tourists flock from all over the world to see and photograph their colorful blooms along the lake’s foreshore and in various fields around town.

Sadly, as beautiful as they are, lupins are invasive to New Zealand and damaging to the local ecosystem. Although there are efforts being made to control them in vulnerable habitats, there’s still plenty around.

25. Milford Track

Perhaps the most famous of New Zealand’s Great Walks, the Milford Track is a 53.5 km (33.2 mile) multi-day walk that takes you through glacier-carved valleys, lush rainforests and past towering waterfalls deep within Fiordland National Park. It’s been described as ‘the finest walk in the world’ by the travel industry.

The track is walked in one direction, generally over 3 nights and 4 days from late October to April. Bookings are required for huts and transport which sell out very fast as visitors and locals vie for a coveted spot on the track. 

Alternatively, you can get a taste of the Milford Track as a day walk. You’ll need to book a water taxi to the start of the track which you can do here. 

Final Thoughts on the Top Attractions in New Zealand

It’s impossible to capture everything that makes New Zealand so special, and even more difficult to choose just a few highlights. No matter what you want to do or hope to experience during your trip to New Zealand, it’s bound to be a memorable experience. 

Everything from culture, wine, nature and adventure, these must-visit New Zealand tourist attractions are only a taste of what you can expect. Get ready for an adventure of a lifetime in Aotearoa New Zealand. 

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