Fiordland National Park

Just a few hours from Queenstown, Fiordland is one of the most amazing collections of natural attractions in the world. Rain forests, mountains and ocean fiords all compete for your attention. The locals have devised a dozen ways to view them. Fiordland is also famous for its tracks or hiking trails. The best known of these is the Milford, but there are other, less travelled routes that are often preferred by those in the know. Examples are the Hollyford Valley and Routeburn tracks.

Dunedin

A five-hour drive south from Christchurch (or three from Queenstown), this town houses the southernmost university in the world and calls itself the wildlife capital of New Zealand, with penguins, seals, sea lions, royal albatrosses and sharks. Incredible viewing, great beaches and not at all touristy.

The North Island

We highly suggest that you check out some of the sites of the North Island. Our first suggestion is to get out of the cities and into the countryside. If you’re interested in the Maori culture, you will find more opportunities to examine it on the North Island, as their culture was not as pervasive on the South Island. Listed here are a few better-known destinations.

Rotorua and Taupo

In the middle of the North Island, Rotorua is perhaps New Zealand’s best-known attraction. There is no shortage of tourists or tourist facilities here, and the big attractions are the naturally occurring thermal pools and geysers (and attendant smell of rotten eggs). This is the best place to learn about Maori history and culture.

Coromandel Peninsula

Steeped in Maori history, this area offers a beautiful landscape with dozens of beaches and even hot steam beneath the sand in some cases. The interior is very hilly with beautiful old tree growths, making it a terrific area for walking.

Bay of Islands

The Bay is located on the northernmost peninsula of the North Island and is the birthplace of modern New Zealand. Sub-tropical in climate with fern trees, the area is great for deep sea fishing and diving.

Waipoua Forest

The Waipoua Forest is a must-visit for those with a botanical bent. This beautiful region is home to the largest remaining stand of Kauri trees. Once nearly extinct, these huge specimens are now strictly protected.

Hawke’s Bay

This region is one of the premier chardonnay and sauvignon blanc wine-producing areas of New Zealand. Its regional capital, Napier, comes right out of an Art Deco film set and has a distinct Mediterranean feel to it.