Must visit places in New Zealand
New Zealand is packed with incredible destinations that make for the ultimate road trip. From breathtaking coastlines to stunning mountain landscapes, this guide highlights the must-visit places to help you plan an unforgettable journey.
NORTH ISLAND
Bay of Islands
Near the northernmost tip of the North Island lies a region rich in history, Maori culture, and charming small towns. This area is an incredible destination to learn, explore, and relax.
A must-visit spot is the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, where New Zealand’s founding document was signed. On select days, you can join a local Maori tribe to paddle a waka (canoe), a truly immersive experience to learn about their fascinating traditions and history. The cultural performances and interactive exhibits at the treaty grounds provide a deeper understanding of New Zealand’s rich heritage.
Nearby is the small town of Paihia, the perfect jumping-off point to explore the region. From here, catch a short ferry ride to Russell, one of New Zealand’s oldest settlements. Russell exudes charm with its historic buildings, including the Duke of Marlborough Hotel—an iconic spot for an overnight stay or a meal with a view. Strolling along the beach, enjoying the tranquil atmosphere, and exploring the quaint shops and galleries make for a memorable visit.
Hobbiton
Hobbiton is an absolute must-visit for anyone with even a passing interest in The Lord of the Rings or The Hobbit movies. This tour exceeded all expectations, offering a truly magical experience. Set in the heart of a sprawling 1,250-acre sheep and cattle farm, Hobbiton feels like stepping into Middle-earth, surrounded by picturesque rolling hills and lush fields.
The adventure begins with a coach ride through the farm, immersing you in the rural New Zealand landscape. Once at the Hobbiton movie set, knowledgeable guides lead you through the enchanting village, pointing out all the iconic filming locations. From colorful hobbit holes to the Party Tree, every detail has been meticulously preserved.
One highlight of the tour is stepping inside a hobbit home, where the attention to detail brings the magic of the movies to life. The experience concludes at the Green Dragon Inn, where you can enjoy a cider or beer, making you feel like a true inhabitant of Middle-earth.
Travel Tip: Hobbiton is extremely popular, and tours often sell out weeks in advance during peak season. Be sure to book your spot early to avoid disappointment. Whether you’re a hardcore fan or just curious, this is a New Zealand experience you won’t want to miss!
Lake Taupo
Lake Taupo is a must-visit spot on New Zealand’s North Island, offering a variety of unique experiences that make it perfect for a night or two.
One of the more unique attractions is Aratiatia Rapids. At specific times each day—10 am, 12 pm, 2 pm, and 4 pm during summer—the dam opens, transforming the calm riverbed into a thundering torrent of rapids. The sheer volume and force of the water are awe-inspiring, and the spectacle is best viewed from the bridge on the far side of the car park.
For something truly out of this world, visit Craters of the Moon, a geothermal area with an otherworldly landscape. For less than £5, you can walk along boardwalks winding through steaming vents, bubbling mud pools, and hissing craters, making you feel like you’ve stepped onto another planet.
A visit to Huka Falls is another unmissable highlight. This breathtaking waterfall channels an enormous volume of water through a narrow gorge, creating a mesmerizing display of power and beauty. You can enjoy the falls from the Huka Falls Lookout, just a short stroll from the car park, or take the Huka Falls Walkway, a scenic 3km track along the river that offers fantastic views of the water’s turquoise hues.
Taupo town itself is a charming spot with a selection of restaurants, shops, and its own quirky claim to fame—the world’s coolest McDonald’s. This McDonald’s features a retired plane where you can enjoy your meal in one of the most unique dining settings you’ll ever find!
SOUTH ISLAND
ABEL TASMAN
Abel Tasman National Park is a true gem of New Zealand, known for its stunning coastal scenery, sandy beaches, and crystal-clear waters. On your way to the park, you’ll pass through Motueka, a charming small town with a few local shops, and Kaiteriteri, where you’ll find lovely beaches and the departure point for most boat trips into the national park. You have the option to explore the park by boat, enjoying the scenic coastline, or by foot, starting at the Abel Tasman DOC carpark—where parking is free. From there, you can trek the Abel Tasman Coast Track, which takes you along the coastline and through several beautiful beaches and bays.
A great spot to stop after your hike is the Park Cafe, located near the park entrance by the carpark—just be sure to book ahead, as it fills up quickly!
For those seeking a more immersive experience, you can arrange a boat drop-off and pick-up within the park or even stay overnight at one of the campsites along the Coast Track. If you’re looking for a manageable walk, I recommend heading to Apple Tree Bay, a 10km return trip that offers beautiful views along the way. It’s the perfect way to soak in the natural beauty of this coastal paradise.
Recommended length of time – two nights with one day walking in the national park and the next on a boat trip.
WEST COAST
The West Coast of New Zealand offers some truly unforgettable stops, each with its own unique charm. One must-see is Cape Foulwind, home to a large seal colony where you can watch seals lounging on the rocks and young pups playing in the rock pools. A short drive from here takes you to Irimahuwhero Lookout, an incredible viewpoint that offers sweeping views of the rugged coastline—definitely worth a stop! Just a little further along the coast, you’ll find Pancake Rocks in Punakaiki, a stunning rock formation that will amaze any geology enthusiast. There’s a small café near the car park that serves delicious pancakes, making it a perfect place to relax after your visit.
Hokitika, a quaint town with a range of local restaurants, cafés, and shops. There’s a lovely walk along the beach that loops back into the town center, perfect for a peaceful stroll. From Hokitika, it’s just a 30-minute drive to the breathtaking Hokitika Gorge, known for its striking bright blue water created by glacier dust. Be sure to walk all the way to the end of the path to get an iconic photo standing on top of the rock, and don’t forget to keep an eye out for the vibrant, colorful mushrooms that dot the area.
FRANZ JOSEF
Franz Josef is a charming town on New Zealand’s West Coast, offering a variety of restaurants, shops, campsites, and hotels. It’s a great base for exploring the stunning Franz Josef Glacier and its surrounding natural beauty. One of the top attractions in town is the West Coast Wildlife Centre, where you can see a kiwi bird up close—a must for animal lovers. For a delicious meal, try Alice May or Monsoon, two local restaurants offering tasty dishes in a cozy atmosphere.
Franz Josef also has a helpful visitor center, providing maps and expert advice on local treks, including those around Franz Josef Glacier and Fox Glacier. If you’re up for a challenge, there are a few long walks in the area, such as the Alex Knob Track (8 hours return) and the Roberts Point Track (5 hours return), which is steeper but offers great views. If you want a shorter hike, the Alex Knob Track also has scenic stop-offs like Rata Lookout (3 hours return) and Christmas Lookout (5 hours return), both offering stunning glacier views.
You can start the Alex Knob Track from either the Alex Knob Car Park or the Franz Josef Glacier Car Park (just a 2-minute drive away). The track winds through trees, providing plenty of scenic spots to stop and take photos. For a more leisurely walk, try the Okarito Trig Walk or the Terrace Walk. The Terrace Walk is particularly magical at night when you can see glowworms lighting up the forest—don’t worry, the path is well-travelled by others.
For a truly unique experience, you can also book a heli-hike and take a helicopter ride to the top of Franz Josef Glacier. Though it’s a pricey option, it’s an unforgettable way to see the glacier up close, especially on a clear day.
FOX GLACIER
Just a 30-minute drive from Franz Josef, Fox Glacier is a small, quieter town with a few hotels and campsites, making it a perfect option if you prefer a more relaxed atmosphere. Though it’s smaller than Franz Josef, it offers access to stunning natural attractions, such as Lake Matheson, just a few minutes’ drive from the town. On a clear day, Lake Matheson offers one of the most spectacular views of the surrounding mountains reflecting perfectly on the water.
Matheson Café, located near the car park, is a lovely spot for breakfast or lunch, with beautiful indoor and outdoor seating areas offering fantastic views of the mountains.
The Lake Matheson Walk is a must-do—it’s an easy 1.5-hour loop around the lake, and along the way, you’ll encounter several viewpoints offering breathtaking views of the mountains. For the most magical experience, visit at sunrise or sunset when the lake is still and the reflections are at their best. I recommend getting up early, walking around the lake, and then enjoying a delicious breakfast at the café to kickstart your day. Be sure to make a stop at the Lake Matheson Jetty for the iconic mountain reflections view.
Just two minutes past the lake, you’ll also find a Fox Glacier Viewpoint, providing another fantastic vantage point of the glacier and surrounding landscape. It’s a peaceful spot to take in the beauty of the area.
HAAST PAST
Where to stop on the Haast Past?
One of the first must-see spots is Thunder Creek Falls, a powerful waterfall nestled in a lush forest. Another highlight is Fantail Falls, where, during low water levels, you can walk along the riverbed for a closer view of the falls.
Continuing on, make sure to stop at Cameron Flat Campsite & Day Use Area, a perfect spot to take in some exceptional views and enjoy a peaceful break from driving. Just across from the day-use area, you’ll find the Blue Pools—a stunning spot with crystal-clear water.
As you approach Lake Wanaka, the views become even more spectacular, with several lookout points along the road where you can pull over and soak in the beauty of the lake and surrounding mountains.
WANAKA
Wanaka is a charming and vibrant town nestled on the shores of Lake Wanaka, offering visitors a perfect blend of natural beauty and modern amenities. The town is well-equipped with large supermarkets, a variety of shops, great restaurants, cafes, and local vineyards.
The lakefront is a serene spot to relax, swim, or simply take in the incredible views. A highlight of the area is the iconic Wanaka Tree, a lone willow that stands out against the stunning backdrop of the lake and mountains—while it’s just a tree, its beauty and uniqueness have made it a must-see spot.
For nature lovers, there are some incredible hiking opportunities around Wanaka. The Roy’s Peak trail is one of the most famous and challenging hikes in the region, taking around 5-6 hours to complete and offering panoramic views from the summit. If you’re looking for something a bit easier but equally scenic, the Diamond Lake Trek is a great option. Located just a 15-minute drive from Wanaka, this trail starts at the lake and winds its way up to a viewpoint where you can look out over the stunning Lake Wanaka, surrounded by majestic hills. From the viewpoint, you can either head back or continue on to one of the following options: Rocky Mountain Lake Wanaka viewpoint (shorter) or Rocky Peak summit.
QUEENSTOWN / ARROWTOWN / CARDRONA
Cardrona
On your drive to Queenstown, make sure to take a detour through the small and historic town of Cardrona. This charming little town offers a glimpse into New Zealand’s past with its old-fashioned atmosphere and limited but picturesque buildings. One of the most iconic spots in Cardrona is the Cardrona Hotel, a classic New Zealand pub with a cozy beer garden. Inside, the hotel exudes an old-world charm, making it a perfect spot to stop for a drink or a bite to eat.
Queenstown
Nestled on the shores of Lake Wakatipu and surrounded by dramatic mountains, Queenstown is one of the most stunning towns in the world. Known as the adventure capital, it offers thrilling activities like bungee jumps, canyon swings, and speedboat rides. In winter, the town transforms into a haven for skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts.
Beyond adrenaline, Queenstown boasts a vibrant food scene and plenty of lakeside bars with breathtaking views. A visit isn’t complete without a stop at Fergburger, home to some of the best burgers you’ll ever taste. Next door, Fergbaker serves delicious pastries, perfect for a breakfast before your adventures. For a happy hour in Queenstown, head to the Public Bar by the docks to enjoy drinks with a view (3pm-5pm).
Just a short walk from Queenstown’s town center, Skyline Queenstown offers a must-do experience. The cable car takes you to the top of the mountain, where you’ll be greeted with stunning panoramic views of the town, Lake Wakatipu, and the surrounding mountains. At the top, you’ll find a bar, restaurant, and a range of viewpoints. But the real thrill is the Luge, where you race down the hill in a small kart, fully in control of your speed—take it fast or leisurely while soaking in the scenery. I recommend having multiple goes as the track is quite short and allows you to have a few goes and build up some speed.
For those who enjoy walking, Queenstown Hill offers a challenging 2.5-3 hour hike with breathtaking views. If you prefer something shorter, head to Queenstown Gardens, where you can explore beautiful flowers and enjoy picturesque lake views. Don’t miss the 18-hole frisbee golf course in the gardens, available to play with frisbees that can be rented for $5 at Small Planet Sports in town.
Arrowtown
Just a 30-minute drive from Queenstown, the charming town of Arrowtown offers a step back in time. Known for its historic gold mining roots, the town features beautiful heritage buildings, quaint shops, excellent restaurants, bars, and museums, all found along Buckingham Street.
One of the best activities in Arrowtown is gold panning in the rivers, a nod to the town’s rich history where the first gold was discovered in 1861. It’s a fun, hands-on way to connect with the area’s past. Equipment can be rented from local shops by the river.
Beyond its history, Arrowtown is surrounded by stunning vineyards. Our top pick is Ayrburn winery, known for its exceptional wines and delicious food—perfect for a relaxing afternoon.
Recommended length of time – Three/four nights in Queenstown, visiting Arrowtown for a day trip
Te ANAU
Te Anau, the gateway town to Milford Sound, is much more than just a stopover on the way to one of New Zealand’s most iconic destinations. This charming town offers plenty of activities to make it worth a visit in its own right. One of the highlights is the Te Anau Glowworm Caves tour, which was one of our favorite experiences in New Zealand.
The adventure begins with a 30-minute boat ride across Lake Te Anau to reach the caves, offering stunning views from the top deck. Upon arrival, you’re met by a tour guide, and the group, usually no larger than 12, sets off to explore the cave system. The tour involves walking through impressive rock formations and past cascading waterfalls, with a few areas requiring you to duck to fit through. After about 20 minutes of exploration, the lights are turned off as you board small boats to glide through the cave’s glowworm-lit waters. The sight of thousands of glowworms sparkling above you, like a starry sky, is truly magical – and since no photos are allowed, it makes the experience feel even more special. Once the tour is complete, you’ll head back to the town and learn more about these fascinating creatures.
In addition to the glowworm caves, Te Anau also offers a free bird sanctuary where you can see the rare and prehistoric-looking takahe birds, native to New Zealand. It’s a short walk or drive along the lake to the sanctuary, and it’s a lovely way to spend some time in this peaceful town.
Recommended length of time: Two night – one on the way to Milford Sound and can stay a night after visiting Milford Sound if you just plan to go for the day.
MILFORD SOUND
There are two great options for visiting Milford Sound: one is to take your time and drive down the day before, stay overnight, and enjoy the sound the following morning; the other is to make the trip in a single day, returning to Te Anau that evening.
If you want to make the most of your experience, I recommend leaving Te Anau early in the morning to avoid the tour buses coming from Queenstown. Leave around 8 am, and while the drive itself is about 2 hours, you’ll want to take your time—this route is filled with breathtaking views, and you’ll want to stop at several key spots along the way. I’ve marked the best places on my interactive Google Maps, but don’t miss Eglinton Valley, Monkey Creek, and Mirror Lake. With these stops, expect the drive to take closer to 3.5 hours. As you go, the scenery dramatically changes, and it’s a photographer’s dream. The Homer Tunnel can be a bit nerve-wracking, but once you’re through, the views on the other side are incredible.
Once you arrive in Milford Sound, park at Deep Water Basin (free carpark), which is about a 15-minute walk from the boat terminal. There isn’t much at Milford Sound itself—just a few small walks, a café, and of course, the stunning scenery. I highly recommend doing the Milford Sound Lookout and Observation Deck walk, both short and easy walks that offer fantastic views of the fjord. Ask people at the visitor centre for details.
When booking your boat trip, try to schedule it before noon, as the afternoon boats tend to get crowded with day-trippers from Queenstown. The boats with observation decks are the best choice, so you can spend your entire 2-hour boat ride soaking in the spectacular views from above. Whether you take the trip in a day or spend the night, Milford Sound is truly one of New Zealand’s most stunning natural wonders!
There is one hotel and campsite right by Milford Sound and that’s Milford Sound Lodge. It has some incredible rooms and also has 20 powered camping spaces per night and is worth the £50.00 price tag.
Recommended length of time: One night
MOUNT COOK
The drive to Mount Cook Village is hands down the best drive in New Zealand! The road leads you straight toward the majestic Mount Cook, which is visible for most of the journey, offering stunning views the whole way. On a clear day, it’s simply breathtaking. Alongside the road, you’ll pass the incredibly blue Lake Pukaki, which makes for some perfect photo opportunities. If you’re driving in the summer, make sure to stop by the NZ Alpine Lavender farm at the start of the drive—when in full bloom, it’s a beautiful sight!
Where to get the best picture of Mount Cook?
There are several spots along the drive to capture Mount Cook at its best, but for the most iconic shots, stop at Glentanner Lookout and Mount Cook & Tasman River Lookout (both marked on the interactive Google maps). These offer breathtaking panoramic views of the mountain.
Best walks in Mount Cook?
There are several walking trails around Mount Cook, but the best one is undoubtedly the Hooker Valley Track. Starting from the White Horse Hill campground, which can get quite busy but offers ample parking and basic facilities like a toilet, this 10km walk takes around 2-3 hours to complete. The path is well-marked, and along the way, you’ll cross three suspension bridges, offering numerous opportunities to snap some incredible pictures of the surrounding mountains. The track ends at Hooker Lake, where you’ll have an unrestricted view of Mount Cook—truly a spectacular sight! Whether you’re an avid hiker or just looking for an easy, scenic walk, the Hooker Valley track is a must-do.
Recommended length of time: One night
LAKE TEKAPO
Between November and February, the lupins around Lake Tekapo are in full bloom, offering a vibrant and spectacular view of the landscape. Lake Tekapo itself is a charming small town, nestled by the lake and surrounded by stunning mountains. Despite its size, the town has everything you need, including supermarkets, restaurants, cafes, bars, and shops. For a cozy break, head to the Greedy Cow Café, where you can enjoy a hot drink and take a stroll down to the lake. The town also boasts a few lovely shops with unique souvenirs.
If you’re there on a Wednesday, don’t miss the delightful night market, which runs from 4-8pm and features a variety of homemade food stalls—great for sampling local delicacies.
One of the must-see spots in Lake Tekapo is the Church of the Good Shepherd. This beautiful stone church, set right on the lake’s edge, is one of the most photographed landmarks in New Zealand, offering a picturesque setting. For a relaxing experience, head to Tekapo Springs, a hot springs swimming pool with stunning views over the lake—perfect for unwinding after a day of walking and exploring the area.
Recommended length of time: One night
OAMARU
Oamaru, located on the east coast of New Zealand, is famous for its penguin sightings and stunning Victorian architecture. The town has a blend of old and new, with a more modern area and the charming Victorian Precinct, where you feel like you’ve stepped back in time. This historic district is home to Harbour Street, lined with quirky shops, cafes, restaurants, and bars. It’s a delightful place to wander, grab a drink, and soak in the atmosphere. A unique stop here is Steampunk HQ, a sci-fi museum that offers an imaginative and altered universe experience. For a peaceful break, Oamaru’s public garden is a lovely spot to explore.
Where to See Penguins in Oamaru, New Zealand?
Oamaru is renowned for its penguin populations, including the rare yellow-eyed penguin. The best place to spot these unique birds is along the Bushy Beach Track, a short drive from the town center. The track offers a fantastic vantage point from the cliffs, where you can watch the penguins return after a day of fishing, usually in the early morning or late afternoon. The track to the beach closes in the late afternoon to protect the penguins. At the end of the track, there is a small hut where you can wait for the penguins, sheltered from the wind. During your wait, you may also spot seals coming and going from the beach.
For a closer look at penguins, head to the Oamaru Blue Penguin Colony. Here, you can pay a fee to watch the world’s smallest penguins, the blue penguins, waddle up the beach after a day at sea. It’s a memorable experience, as the penguins are often just a few feet away, offering a magical wildlife encounter.
New Zealand Google Maps
We’ve created Google Maps for every place we visited across New Zealand’s North and South Islands, making it easier to plan your trip and discover incredible destinations along the way.
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