6 Things to Do in New Zealand That Will Leave You Speechless

New Zealand is like Mother Nature decided to show off all her best tricks in one place. From snow-capped mountains and pristine beaches to geothermal wonders and movie-famous landscapes, this country offers experiences that'll have you pinching yourself to make sure you're not dreaming. Whether you're an adrenaline junkie or someone who prefers to take in the scenery with a cup of coffee, these six incredible things to do in New Zealand should definitely be on your bucket list.

Top 6 Things To Do in New Zealand 

Here we have compiled a list of 6 best things to do in New Zealand so that you can enjoy the beauty of this mother nature smoothly - 

1. Experience the Adventure Capital: Queenstown

When people ask about things to do in Queenstown New Zealand, the answer is simple – everything! This picturesque town, nestled beside Lake Wakatipu, is literally where adrenaline sports were invented. Queenstown is the birthplace of commercial bungy jumping and jet boating, so you know they're serious about their thrills here.

The most iconic adventure has to be bungy jumping at the Kawarau Bridge – the world's first commercial bungy site, where you can leap 43 meters above turquoise waters. If that's not enough to get your heart racing, try The Nevis bungy, which is New Zealand's highest at a whopping 134 meters.

For water lovers, jet boating through the Shotover Canyon is an absolute must. These boats zip through narrow rocky gorges, performing 360-degree spins that'll have you screaming with delight. And if you prefer your adventures in the sky, Queenstown offers some of the world's most spectacular skydiving experiences with the Southern Alps as your backdrop.

• Tickets: Most adventure activities in Queenstown range from $80-$400 NZD. 
• Our Tip: Book in advance during peak season (December-February and June-August). Many operators offer combo deals, so check for packages. 

2. Discover Auckland's Urban Treasures

Things to do in Auckland, New Zealand, start with your adventure at the iconic Sky Tower, the Southern Hemisphere's tallest freestanding structure at 328 meters. The views from the observation decks are absolutely incredible, and if you're feeling brave, you can even do a SkyWalk around the outside or a SkyJump.

Mount Eden offers one of the best free experiences in Auckland. This dormant volcano provides 360-degree views of the city, harbor, and beyond. It's particularly magical at sunset when the city lights start twinkling below. Another volcanic cone worth visiting is One Tree Hill, which offers stunning panoramas and a glimpse into Auckland's geological history. Take a stroll through the Auckland Botanic Gardens to see native and exotic plants. Kelly Tarlton's SEA LIFE Aquarium is perfect for families, featuring an incredible underwater tunnel where sharks and rays swim overhead.

• Tickets: Sky Tower admission costs around $32 NZD for adults. Ferry rides to islands start from $40 NZD return. Many of Auckland's best attractions, like Mount Eden and One Tree Hill, are free. 
• Our tip: Consider getting an Auckland Explorer Bus pass for easy transport between attractions. The city has excellent public transport, so you don't need a car to get around.

Before planning your adventure, check Book Air New Zealand Flights for affordable routes and flight options straight to Auckland or Christchurch

3. Soak in Rotorua's Geothermal Wonders

Rotorua is where the earth literally bubbles and steams before your eyes. This incredible geothermal wonderland sits within the Pacific Ring of Fire and offers some of the most unique things to do in New Zealand. The moment you arrive, you'll notice the distinctive sulfur smell – don't worry, you get used to it quickly!

Te Puia is probably the most famous geothermal park, home to the legendary Pōhutu Geyser that erupts up to 30 meters high up to 20 times a day. Sometimes it erupts continuously for days – it once went non-stop for over 250 days! Along with the geyser, you'll see bubbling mud pools, colorful hot springs, and learn about Māori culture from local guides.

You can float under the stars at various hot pools around the city, or try the free thermal foot pools at Kuirau Park. The city even has a thermally heated public swimming pool – imagine doing laps in naturally hot water!

• Tickets: Te Puia admission costs around $50-80 NZD for adults. 
• Our Tips: Many accommodation providers offer package deals with geothermal parks. Visit early morning or late afternoon for the best photography as steam is more visible in cooler air. Bring layers as the geothermal areas can be quite warm even on cool days.

4. Step into Middle-earth at Hobbiton

Even if you're not a Lord of the Rings fan, visiting the Hobbiton Movie Set is pure magic. Located on the Alexander family farm near Matamata, this is where Peter Jackson brought J.R.R. Tolkien's Shire to life. The rolling green hills dotted with hobbit holes look exactly like something from a fairy tale.

The guided tour takes you through this 12-acre wonderland, past 44 hobbit holes built into the hillsides. Each hole is uniquely designed with colorful doors, charming gardens, and rustic details that make them feel authentically lived-in. You'll see Bilbo and Frodo's famous Bag End, complete with its iconic green door, and walk the same paths where epic movie scenes were filmed.

• Tickets: Tickets cost $120-230 NZD for adults and must be booked well in advance, sometimes months ahead during peak season. Children under 10 are free but need tickets allocated. 
• Our Tip: Tours run daily year-round with different seasonal highlights. The site is about 2 hours from Auckland and 45 minutes from Rotorua. Photography is allowed throughout the tour, so bring your camera for those Instagram-worthy shots!

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5. Marvel at Wellington's Cultural Treasures

Things to do in Wellington, New Zealand showcase why it's called the "coolest little capital in the world". Start with the iconic Wellington Cable Car, a bright red funicular that's been climbing the Kelburn hillside since 1902. The five-minute ride saves you a steep hike and delivers you to the Wellington Botanic Garden with its 25 hectares of native and exotic plants. From the gardens, you can walk to Te Ahumairangi Hill Lookout for panoramic city and harbor views.

No visit to Wellington is complete without spending time at Te Papa Tongarewa – the Museum of New Zealand. This incredible museum tells the story of the country through interactive exhibits covering everything from Māori culture to natural history. The earthquake simulation exhibit is particularly memorable! For nature lovers, Zealandia is absolutely extraordinary. This fenced wildlife sanctuary gives you a glimpse of New Zealand as it was before humans arrived. 

• Tickets: Cable Car costs $6 NZD one way. Te Papa Museum is free, but special exhibitions may charge. Zealandia admission is around $20 NZD for adults, with a free shuttle from the Cable Car terminal. 
• Our tip: Wellington is very walkable, but the hills can be steep – comfortable shoes are essential. The weather can change quickly, so pack layers and a waterproof jacket.

6. Cruise Through Milford Sound's Majestic Fjords

Rudyard Kipling called Milford Sound the "eighth wonder of the world," and honestly, he wasn't exaggerating. This incredible fjord in Fiordland National Park showcases New Zealand's raw natural power like nowhere else. Carved by ancient glaciers, Milford Sound stretches 15 kilometers inland from the Tasman Sea, surrounded by towering peaks that rise straight from the dark waters.

The star of the show is definitely Mitre Peak, which soars 1,692 meters directly from the fjord's waters. But that's just the beginning, the area features countless waterfalls, including the mighty Stirling Falls, where boats can actually sail right underneath the cascading water. When it rains (which happens about 200 days a year), hundreds of temporary waterfalls appear on the cliff faces, creating an even more dramatic spectacle.

Taking a cruise is the best way to experience Milford Sound's majesty. You'll glide through waters that reach 400 meters deep in some places, spot seals basking on rocks, and maybe even see dolphins or penguins. The journey to Milford Sound along State Highway 94 is spectacular too, winding through ancient forests, past mirror lakes, and through the famous Homer Tunnel.

• Tickets: Day cruises start around $80-120 NZD for adults, with longer cruises costing more. Overnight cruises range from $400-800 NZD per person. 
• Our tip: The drive from Queenstown takes about 4.5 hours (including stops), or you can fly in about 45 minutes. Book accommodation in advance as options are limited. The weather can change rapidly, so pack waterproofs.

Conclusion

The best things to do in New Zealand aren't just about ticking boxes – they're about creating memories that'll last a lifetime. Whether you're bungee jumping over the Kawarau River, soaking in natural hot springs, walking through the Shire, or cruising through majestic fjords, each experience connects you with this land in a unique way. So, what are you waiting for? Book your flights to New Zealand now with ExperianAirfare.

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