There’s a reason as to why tourism contributes 6.1 % to New Zealand’s GDP annually. It is because of its irresistible destinations with impressive sceneries and sports activities such as bungee jumping and whale watching. For those wishing to have a touch of culture, New Zealand is just the place to visit. You get a chance to experience a blend of cultures from amiable people not to mention its pleasant climate. The guide below will help you in narrowing down your choices.

1. Bay of Islands

For those of us that love water sports and beaches, Bay of Islands is the place to be. It is just a three-hour drive from Auckland or a 35-minute flight. It encompasses 144 islands between the famous Cape Brett and the Purerua Peninsula. It offers you a lifetime opportunity of swimming with dolphins as well as enjoy a whole new underwater marine life such as seals and whales. With its rich cultural history, it is home to many tribes such as Ngapuhi. It also offers you an opportunity to learn about the Maori culture. Whether adventures, relaxation, or fun, this is a destination to visit and make those precious memories.

2. Milford Sound

Milford Sound is a stunning natural attraction located deep within Fiordland National park. It has a magical fusion of mountain peaks, falls and rain forest.  Rudyard previously called it the eighth wonder of the world. It is the result of numerous glaciers ages ago. A great way to experience Milford Sound is by boat cruises. You may participate in sea kayaking, flightseeing, and diving. This breathtaking beauty at the Sound will leave you yearning for more and give you memories worth keeping.

3. Queenstown

Enjoy an iconic New Zealand experience by visiting New Zealand’s adventure city, Queenstown. If planning to visit New Zealand during the winter and spring, you have the chance to experience world-class skiing. Other activities you can participate in at any time of the year are bungee jumping, jet boating, sky diving, and river rafting for beautiful memories. It also prides in being home to the world’s highest cliff jump at Shotover canyon swing. What more is that this town has some of the best world-class restaurants and bars.

4. Rotorua

It is among the unique sites in the world. It sits on a volcanic plate, and its strong smell of Sulphur is a characteristic of the town. Rotorua, though a small town, is a hotbed for geothermal activity, vibrant Maori culture as well as wildlife and nature experiences. You also get the chance to walk around the lakes or the top of volcanoes. Wai-O-Tapu an active geothermal area, located 27 kilometres south of Rotorua, is a must-visit place once you get to Rotorua. It is complete with exploding geysers, hot springs, steaming craters, and brightly coloured lakes.

5. Waiheke Island

It is only a 45 minutes ferry trip from Auckland. Its beauty is quite outstanding with its palm trees and white sand beaches. Furthermore, for wine lovers, this is just the ideal destination for you. It is home to numerous vineyards; thus, a wine-tasting session is one of the incredible experiences you get to have. Lounging on those mesmerizing beaches while sipping on fine wine is sure to deliver unforgettable memories.

6. Auckland

It is the most populous Polynesian city and New Zealand’s largest city. Most international flights arrive through Auckland airport, thus making it an ideal city to start your exploration of the country. You may learn about numerous cultures of the people of New Zealand from museums such as the Auckland Art Gallery. Also, experience first-class services at the multicultural bars and restaurants which serve all types of cuisine. You may participate in adventurous activities such as the Auckland bridge climb and the bridge bungee jump.

7. Abel Tasman National park

This is a spectacular national park with its location between Golden Bay and Tasman Bay. Learn about its history, including its exploration history. Also, you get a chance to learn about various bird species such as penguins and gulls. This is definitely ideal for adventure and relaxation. It is famous for its golden beaches, coast track, and granite cliffs, all sights to behold.

8. White island

White island is the country’s most active cone volcano. The exposed part is only the peak of a large submarine mountain. With White Island, you won’t be able to have a leisure walk seeing that it is a very active volcano. However, you get to watch the beautiful scenery and learn about it while taking photos of the place.

9. Fox and Franz Josef Glaciers

These glaciers have a temperate climate owing to their low altitude. This makes them ideal for breathtaking hikes. The ice in these glaciers cascades form the highest peaks of Southern Alps to near sea level. This makes it easy for tourists to explore them on foot. Also, you may opt to take Heli-hike to sceneries that will leave you in total awe.

10. Lake Taupo and Tongariro

L. Taupo is the largest lake in New Zealand. There are plenty of activities to choose from at Lake Taupo such as sky diving, jet boating, wakeboarding, water skiing, and trout fishing. When you do not want to be at the lake, you can visit the Tongariro national park. It is a dual world heritage site with its magnificent volcanic features. Its cultural importance to the Maori people will keep you captivated. Also, it is among the oldest national parks in the world with undeniable beauty due to towering volcanoes, arid plateaus, hot springs, and turquoise lakes.

Conclusion

Be sure to enjoy your travel and time in New Zealand. Make memories that you will carry along long after you leave the country. What better way to create these memories and preserve them than by getting your carte du monde à gratter? It will allow you to trace the places you visit uniquely and splendidly.