My Top Ten ‘Must Visit’ Tourist Attractions of New Zealand

Home to mountains, beaches, native forests, glaciers, fiords and thermal regions, New Zealand boasts of the origin of the traditional Maori culture—that rubs shoulders with a contemporary cosmopolitan society.

Take a look at some of the ‘must visit”’ top attractions of New Zealand that can be enjoyed with the services of cheap car rentals. 

1.            Coromandel Peninsula

This lovely north-eastern peninsula is noted for its golden stretches of sand, magnificent coastal scenery and forests abundant with exotic species of flora and fauna. The underground thermal springs of Hot Water Beach transform this location into a popular haunt among tourists and locals alike. 

2.            Abel Tasman National Park

A hiker’s dream, this South Island’s National Park can be enjoyed on foot, by boat or a small plane. A haven for wekas, oyster catchers, blue penguins, wood pigeons and other exquisite varieties of birds, the Abel Tasman National Park is worth a visit. 

 Image Source: http://flic.kr/p/6m3aSm

3.            Sky Tower

A telecommunications and observation tower located in Auckland’s skyline, ‘The Sky Tower’ stands stoic at a height of 328 meters and is arguably the tallest free-standing monument in the region south of the Equator.  

4.            Napier Art Deco

Napier, located on North Island’s eastern coast, is popular for its art deco architecture. The highlight of its tourism calendar is the Art Deco Weekend held in February, every year.  

5.            Kaikoura

A perfect destination for seafood lovers and wilderness walkers, Kaikoura is known for its spotting of dolphins, sperm whales, fur seals and albatrosses. Here, you can feast on mussels, blue cod, fresh crayfish, and more.

Img Source: http://flic.kr/p/87CXuY

6.            Franz Josef Glacier

The Westland National Park is home to this world’s most accessible glacier that serves as an important remnant of the Ice  Age. The Franz Josef Glacier and Fox Glacier are South Westland’s major draw cards. Don’t miss them!

7.            Rotorua

Oft referred to as the thermal wonderland of NZ, Rotorua is visited for its hot springs and geysers- - most of which are located in reserves and parks. Wai-O-Tapu, located in the vicinity of Rotorua is known for the Lady Knox Geyser and other colourful hot springs. 

8.            Tongariro National Park

Active volcanoes, untamed forests, herb fields, tranquil lakes and desert-like plateaus—the Tongariro National Park has them all. Here you also come close to several ancient volcanic eruptions and amazing land formations.

9.            Bay of Islands

These 144 islands, several secluded bays and some amazing sandy beaches that are the feeding grounds of penguins, dolphins, whales, and the big marlin. This is a popular destination for international sport fishermen and those wanting to enjoy the beauty of colourful yachts cruising along on the blue seas. 

10.          Milford Sound

Located in Fiordland National Park, Milford Sound boasts of some of the finest views in the world. Dramatic peaks, staggering coastal scenery, cascading waterfalls and stunning geographical formations transform it into one of the most attractive tourist spots in New Zealand. 

Are you ready to indulge your senses?