There are so many things to do in New Zealand that planning a trip can be overwhelming. We’ve compiled a list of the best adrenaline rushes, delicacies to taste, epic treks, and cultural experiences in New Zealand so you can make your own Kiwi bucket list.
There are limitless things to do in New Zealand, whether you’re a first-time visitor or a Kiwi seeking to explore.
New Zealand has so much adventure and so many things to do that you’ll never be able to ‘do it all’ in a single visit. However, if you’re anything like us, you’ll want to pack in as much as possible.
Here are some of the top things to do in New Zealand on your first visit, so you can start making your own Kiwi bucket list.
Stay in a Mountain Hut for the Night
Multi-day treks are possible because of New Zealand's extensive network of mountain huts. Spending the night in one of the country’s 1,000+ huts should be on the bucket list of any adventurer.
The huts range from extremely remote and primitive to fairly accessible and luxurious. Do your homework because they differ in price and popularity. Some are booked weeks in advance, while others are rarely full.
One of the best mountain huts is Mueller Hut
This famous red hut has 28 bunks and is located on a ridge in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park. Bookings are necessary, and the DOC estimates that this trek on exposed ridges will take 4 hours one way. Before making the hike, check with the local DOC for current weather conditions, since ice axes and crampons may be necessary at times.
Online Casinos
Online casinos provide a wide range of games that could keep you busy on a long road trip. We’re talking about 2000+ slots inspired by novels, films, sports, ancient Egypt and music.
Then there are table games like poker, blackjack and roulette. These games could really help making a long, boring trip more enjoyable. Many casino sites offer free versions of their games, so you don’t have to play for real money if you don’t wish to. For some of the top online casinos in New Zealand, check the sites recommended here.
Discover Maori Culture
The Maori are New Zealand’s indigenous people, famous for their spectacular tattoo patterns and a dance called the Haka, in which warriors stick out their tongues to terrify enemies.
It is now well-known around the world that the All-Blacks rugby team performs a haka before each game. While ‘see a Haka’ may already be on your bucket list, we’d encourage you to broaden it to include learning more about Maori culture.
Try a hangi meal when visiting Rotorua, a Maori settlement. A hangi is a method of cooking in which a pit is dug and hot rocks are placed within. This may be used to prepare almost anything, but the Hangi dishes you’ll see are typically a combination of veggies (potatoes and carrots) and meat.
Dolphin Swimming
This experience will be a dream come true if you grew up enamored with ‘Flipper’ and all things dolphin-related.
The Dusky Dolphin lives just off the shore of the little South Island town of Kaikoura. This species is notable for being tiny (up to 2 meters in length) and lively. They are skilled acrobats that frequently do flips out of the water!
What’s more, guess what? You can swim alongside them.
Boogie Board Down the Sand Dunes
Ninety Mile Beach is ripe for exploration for both the young and the young at heart. At the northern point of New Zealand’s north island, miles of immaculate white sand awaits.
Surfing the left-hand breakers and bodyboarding down the massive dunes are popular pastimes. Either way, they’ll have your heart racing and your soul singing. Just a word of caution: keep an eye out for unexpected traffic on the sand…this beach serves as an official roadway.
While it may be tempting to drive oneself along the gorgeous road, it is better to leave the driving to professional guides.
Climb a Volcanic Island
Rangitoto Island is New Zealand's youngest volcano, having erupted about 600 years ago from the sea. The island is a picturesque reserve that is deserted except for the natural birds that thrive here.
A daily boat service will take you to the island, where you can spend the day enjoying the several treks available, including the most popular summit trail. This short, steep trail will reward you with stunning 360-degree views of Auckland and its surrounding islands.
The nighttime guided kayak tour is one of the most unique ways to experience Rangitoto Island. From the peak, you can watch the sunset before kayaking back across the Waitemata harbor under the stars.
Chow Down on New Zealand’s Favorite Exhibit
Did you know New Zealand has the world’s only enormous squid display? The 470kg specimen was collected in the Antarctic seas in 2007 and is housed in Wellington’s Te Papa Museum.
It’s a well-known New Zealand icon, and now another, Giapo, has transformed the squid into a delicious piece of art. Giapo has long been known for making the most wonderful ice cream in the world, and the Colossal Squid is no exception.
A visit to Giapo’s Auckland store is usually an adventure in and of itself, so come downtown to enjoy a great choice of flavors (many of which are vegan) and cross this New Zealand must-do off your bucket list.
See the Southern Lights
Everyone has heard of the Northern Lights, but did you realize there is another natural phenomenon taking place further south? The aurora australis illuminates the sky in pink and green as it dances through the atmosphere, leaving observers in awe at the amazing sight unfolding before them.
The greatest area to see the southern lights is in the far south, away from big cities and light pollution. But even then, you’ll need a good fortune. Winter is your best option, especially in distant regions like Stewart Island, the Catlins, and near Lake Tekapo.
Without a doubt, New Zealand is a captivating place that will fascinate you.
Whether you’re seeking leisure and relaxation or an adrenaline-fueled adventure, you’ll find it all at this wonderful spot at the end of the earth.
Without uncertainty, we hope this selection of the best things to do in New Zealand has inspired your next visit.
