UNESCO World Heritage Sites
Book Attractions in Advance
Skip the lines at New Zealand's top attractions by booking tickets in advance through Tiqets. Get instant confirmation and mobile tickets for museums, parks, and experiences across New Zealand.
Tongariro National Park
Hike the Tongariro Alpine Crossing through volcanic landscapes and emerald lakes.
A sacred Maori site with dramatic craters, perfect for multi-day treks and photography.
Te Wahipounamu - Fiordland
Discover Milford Sound's towering fjords and rainforests by boat or kayak.
Ancient glaciers and biodiversity make it a pristine wilderness for nature immersion.
Te Wahipounamu - Westland
Explore Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers with guided heli-hikes and temperate rainforests.
Unique glacial valleys offering adventure and stunning ice formations year-round.
New Zealand Subantarctic Islands - Auckland Islands
Visit remote islands teeming with seabirds and seals, accessible by expedition cruises.
A rugged paradise for wildlife enthusiasts with unique endemic species.
New Zealand Subantarctic Islands - Campbell Island
Observe albatross colonies and subantarctic flora on guided tours to this southern outpost.
Harsh beauty with peat bogs and megaherbs, ideal for eco-adventurers.
Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park (Te Wahipounamu)
Ascend trails to New Zealand's highest peak with views of turquoise lakes and glaciers.
Stargazing and mountaineering hub within the larger UNESCO area.
Natural Wonders & Outdoor Adventures
Rotorua Geothermal Areas
Witness boiling mud pools and geysers in Wai-O-Tapu, with Maori cultural ties.
Adventure hub for ziplining and thermal soaking in steaming landscapes.
Milford Sound
Cruise dramatic fjords surrounded by cliffs and waterfalls in Fiordland.
One of the world's most scenic drives, with kayaking and dolphin spotting.
Queenstown Adventure Parks
Bungee jump from historic bridges or skydive over Lake Wakatipu.
Adrenaline capital with jet boating and paragliding for thrill-seekers.
Bay of Islands
Sail to hidden coves and spot whales in this subtropical paradise.
Historical sites and beaches perfect for snorkeling and sailing adventures.
Tongariro Alpine Crossing
Trek volcanic terrains with views of Mount Ngauruhoe and blue lakes.
World-renowned day hike for fit adventurers in a dramatic setting.
Abel Tasman National Park
Kayak golden beaches and coastal tracks with clear waters and seals.
Coastal paradise for hiking, swimming, and eco-tours in native bush.
New Zealand by Region
🌆 Auckland & Northland (North)
- Best For: Urban vibes, beaches, and Maori history with vibrant cities and coastal escapes.
- Key Destinations: Auckland, Bay of Islands, and Waitangi for harbors, islands, and cultural sites.
- Activities: Sailing tours, winery visits, glowworm caves, and hiking volcanic trails.
- Best Time: Summer for beaches (Dec-Feb) and spring for mild weather (Sept-Nov), with 15-25°C temps.
- Getting There: Auckland Airport is the main hub - compare flights on Aviasales for best deals.
🌋 Central North Island
- Best For: Geothermal wonders and adventure sports as the heart of Maori culture.
- Key Destinations: Rotorua, Taupo, and Tongariro for hot springs, lakes, and volcanoes.
- Activities: Zorbing, thermal park visits, lake fishing, and alpine crossings.
- Best Time: Year-round, but autumn (Mar-May) for fewer crowds and colorful foliage.
- Getting There: Well-connected by train and bus from Auckland, with private transfers available via GetTransfer.
🏔️ South Island West Coast
- Best For: Dramatic fjords and glaciers, featuring untamed wilderness adventures.
- Key Destinations: Queenstown, Fiordland, and Franz Josef for sounds, peaks, and ice fields.
- Activities: Fjord cruises, heli-hiking, bungee jumping, and rainforest treks.
- Best Time: Summer for accessibility (Dec-Feb) and winter for snow sports (June-Aug), 5-20°C.
- Getting There: Rent a car for flexibility in exploring remote fjords and coastal roads.
🏞️ South Island East & Canterbury
- Best For: Wine regions and alpine passes with a mix of urban and rural charm.
- Key Destinations: Christchurch, Marlborough, and Aoraki/Mount Cook for gardens, vineyards, and mountains.
- Activities: Wine tastings, hot air ballooning, farm stays, and scenic drives.
- Best Time: Spring for blooms (Sept-Nov) and summer for outdoor pursuits (Dec-Feb), with 10-25°C.
- Getting There: Direct flights to Christchurch or Queenstown, with inter-island ferries connecting regions.
Sample New Zealand Itineraries
🚀 7-Day New Zealand Highlights
Arrive in Auckland, explore the harbor, visit Sky Tower for views, and take a ferry to Waiheke Island for wineries.
Drive to Rotorua for geothermal parks and Maori cultural shows, then relax at Lake Taupo with fishing or hikes.
Fly to Queenstown for adventure activities like bungee jumping, with a day trip to Milford Sound for fjord cruising.
Final day with optional North Island sights or shopping before departure, savoring local seafood.
🏞️ 10-Day Adventure Explorer
Auckland city tour including museums, markets, and volcanic hikes with local cuisine tastings.
Northland for island sailing and historical sites, then Rotorua for thermal wonders and cultural experiences.
Tongariro Alpine Crossing hike, followed by Wellington for museums and waterfront walks.
South Island arrival in Queenstown for jet boating, paragliding, and lakefront relaxation.
Milford Sound cruise and glacier visits before flying back to Auckland for departure.
🏙️ 14-Day Complete New Zealand
Comprehensive Auckland exploration including harbors, wineries, and day trips to Bay of Islands for sailing.
Rotorua geothermal sites and Maori villages, Taupo lake activities, and Tongariro hikes.
Queenstown thrills, Fiordland fjords, and West Coast glaciers with heli-tours.
Christchurch gardens and punting, Marlborough wine tours, and Abel Tasman kayaking.
Mount Cook stargazing and hikes, return flight to Auckland for final markets and departure.
Top Activities & Experiences
Fjord Cruises
Sail Milford Sound's cliffs and waterfalls for unparalleled scenic views.
Available year-round with options for overnight stays and wildlife encounters.
Bungee Jumping
Leap from Kawarau Bridge, the world's first commercial bungee site in Queenstown.
Adrenaline rush with tandem options and scenic canyon views below.
Hobbiton Movie Set Tours
Walk through the Shire from Lord of the Rings in Matamata with guided storytelling.
Immersive experience including hobbit-hole visits and ale at the Green Dragon Inn.
Great Rides Cycling
Pedal the Otago Rail Trail through vineyards and historic tunnels.
Family-friendly paths with e-bike rentals and scenic countryside routes.
Geothermal Spa Soaks
Relax in Polynesian Spa's thermal pools overlooking Lake Rotorua.
Therapeutic mud baths and private hot springs with volcanic minerals.
Maori Cultural Experiences
Join a hangi feast and haka performance at Tamaki Maori Village.
Authentic insights into traditions, weaving, and carving with interactive workshops.