Surrounded by gorgeous ocean views and sweeping landscapes, the top places to visit in New Zealand have something for everyone.
Whether it’s driving to pristine beaches, enjoying a range of activities like mountain biking, exploring food, art, and culture or even enjoying the low-key lakes and alpine ranges, you’re spoilt for choice.
There’s a lot to love in this country and if you have your heart set on making this your next travel destination, then there are a host of things you need to do and visit.
Below are some stunning cities that locals like to head to. You can check out these top places to visit in New Zealand on your next couple’s adventure.
The Best Places to Visit In New Zealand That Locals Love
When it comes to the best places to visit in New Zealand, there are certain haunts that the locals love to go to time and again.
From deep fjords to towering snow-covered mountains, unique culture, and secluded stretches of golden sands, New Zealand has it all. This country is so diverse that it’s rare for people to leave without falling in love with its cities.
Our professionals at Anubhav Vacations offer you a journey into the most offbeat and hidden local places that will pique your wanderlust and offer you a vacation unlike anything else.
Read on to learn how to explore this magnificent country like a kiwi.
Fantastic New Zealand Itinerary: Explore Like a Kiwi
Arriving in New Zealand feels like a whole different planet. Here, you can see the rush of rivulets everywhere, lush landscape trails, birdsongs, and epic walks like the Milford Track.
Booking your vacation ahead of time with highly-rated New Zealand tour packages for 12 days can ensure that you will get to see the best this country has to offer. March is a good time to visit this region, and guests can expect cool but pleasant weather perfectly suited to outdoor exploration.
Let’s make the most of this magical destination and discover the best places to visit in New Zealand, according to a local.
1. Auckland, New Zealand
Filled with boutique wineries, cafes, and beautiful beaches, Auckland is especially popular in the summer months. Here, you can enjoy a view of the Harbor Bridge, America’s Cup Viaduct, and the Sky Tower.
2. Waitomo, New Zealand
A short drive away from Auckland is Waitomo. This is where you can explore the beautiful glow worm caves.
3. Rotorua, New Zealand
You can enjoy a half-day city tour of the thermal capital, an Agrodome tour, and the Te Puia Geothermal Reserve to view the boiling mud pools, cascading Pohutu geyser, and local Māori carvers in action.
4. Wellington, New Zealand
Wellington prides itself on being New Zealand’s cultural, coffee, and craft beer capital. You can stop at the largest freshwater lake in the country, Lake Taupo, and enjoy a short city tour as a part of your New Zealand tour packages.
Tip: Visit Hannahs Laneway in Wellington for street food vendors, cool cafes, desserts, and contemporary art.
5. Picton, New Zealand
Here, you can transfer to Wellington Ferry Terminal and head to Picton. You can explore the towns of Blenheim and Kaikoura along with the ‘Garden City’ of Christchurch.
6. Christchurch, New Zealand
The best time to visit New Zealand, Christchurch is March when the thriving art scene and many galleries come to life. You can drive to the scenic Lake Tekapo, visit the small pretty church of Good Shepard, explore the Antarctic field camp, gallery area, and the International Antarctic Centre, and enjoy “The Snow & Ice Experience.”
7. Twizel, New Zealand
You can drive from Lake Tekapo to Lake Pukaki through the Mackenzie Basin, the Lindis Pass, and Lake Wakatipu.
8. Queenstown, New Zealand
Enjoy taking the Gondola up Queenstown Hill for stunning views. Guests can also enjoy a thrilling jet boat experience through the Dart River or relax by the Wakatipu Lake.
Tip: Featured in The Lord of the Rings Trilogy and X-Men Origins: Wolverine, you can try the Funyaks Experience at Dart River.
9. Milford Sound, New Zealand
After a scenic drive to the Fjordland region of South Island, you can embark on an unforgettable journey on the Milford Sound. You can explore the waterfalls cascading by the cliffs and the rich wildlife.
10. Dunedin, New Zealand
Guests can enjoy The South Catlin coast and stop to spot the wildlife such as seals and walruses. You can also visit Larnach Castle.
Top Things to Do In New Zealand
Not sure where to start? Here are some fun activities to do around New Zealand.
White water rafting on Rangitikei
The adventure capital of the world, the Rangitikei River is one of the best places to enjoy Grade 5 rapids which are the most intense in the world. You can even choose Grade 2 rapids for a more relaxing time.
The Waitomo glow-worm caves
Located a short drive from Auckland, the famous Waitomo glow-worm caves are a must-see. Here you can silently glide into caves on a guided boat tour and view thousands of glow-worms emitting luminescent lights for a truly magical experience.
Tamaki Māori Village
Here you can learn about the 800-year-old Māori culture. You can experience feasts, performances, and cultural rites which only add to the experience. The attention to detail, stories, hand-carved arches, and interactive activities are some of the most profound to date, making you feel like the only person in the audience.
Plan the Perfect Trip to New Zealand With the Professionals
Looking for what is new and exciting in 2025? Our travel professionals at Anubhav Vacations got you covered if you are looking for places to visit in New Zealand. We custom-curate our tours to suit your partner, family, kids, or friends. Whether you’re headed to New Zealand on a honeymoon, an anniversary, a much-needed family trip, or celebrating your friend’s birthday, we will make sure that you enjoy everything this stunning country has to offer. Let Anubhav Vacations create an itinerary of the best places to visit in New Zealand to help you have an unforgettable holiday.
