New Zealand trip | Car trip New Zealand nature & culture

Located on New Zealand's South Island, Abel Tasman National Park is the country's smallest park. This coastal paradise is known for its beautiful white-sand beaches fringed by crystal-clear turquoise waters. Its incredibly beautiful, unspoilt landscapes make the park a popular destination with locals and tourists alike. It is home to an array of wildlife, including: a variety of birds, bottlenose dolphins, seals and the Little Blue Penguin, the smallest of the species. Visitors can take a scenic boat trip, enjoy fantastic hikes or camp under the stars. Other popular activities include swimming, snorkelling and kayaking, said to be the best way to discover the park's spectacular natural treasures. Don't miss the chance to hike along one of New Zealand's 'Great Walks', the Abel Tasman Coastal Track, through rugged headlands, lush forests and pristine beaches.

Mount Somers is a small village at the foot of the Southern Alps in the Canterbury region on New Zealand’s South Island. Thanks to its stunning natural surroundings, it is a popular destination for nature lovers and active travellers. Activities in the area include horse riding, mountain biking, trout and salmon fishing, windsurfing on Lake Heron and birdwatching.
However, Mount Somers is best known for its extensive network of walking and hiking trails through the rugged hinterland. There are routes for half-day, full-day or multi-day treks, including popular walks such as the Woolshed Creek Hut Trail, the Miners Track and the Rhyolite Ridge Track. For more information on what the region has to offer, please visit the Department of Conservation information centre in the village.

Set against a lush backdrop of verdant greenery, Waiatarua – a small settlement perched over 300 metres above sea level in the heart of the Waitākere Ranges in West Auckland – is a convenient starting point for exploring its unspoilt landscape. Scenic walking trails within the Waitākere Ranges Regional Park reveal the area’s rich biodiversity, providing an immersive experience. The town is ideally situated for visitors to explore the area, with the Arataki Visitor Centre being a must-visit – serving as the gateway to the magnificent Waitākere Ranges Regional Park and an informative hub connecting visitors with the park’s ecological treasures across its more than 16,000 hectares of native rainforest and coastline. Highlights include the Cascade Kauri Wildlife Sanctuary, which offers an enriching journey through ancient forests and along streams, whilst the stunning Upper Nihotupu Reservoir Walk ensures delightful views of the reservoir and the surrounding hills.

Set on a peninsula on New Zealand’s ‘Hibiscus Coast’, Whangaparoa means ‘Bay of Whales’ in Māori and is well known for sightings of orcas and dolphins, as well as excellent jet-skiing and windsurfing. If you’re a keen golfer, be sure to play a round at the Gulf Harbour Golf Course, situated at the tip of the Whangaparaoa Peninsula, which offers incredible views of the Hauraki Gulf. If you prefer nature, head to the wildlife sanctuary at Shakespeare Regional Park or to the exquisite Tiritiri Matangi Island, a reserve that is home to a wide variety of endangered birds and wildlife species.

Rotorua is a city full of geothermal wonders and Maori traditions. Upon arrival, the smell of sulphur greets, while Lake Rotorua enchants with serene beauty. The Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland reveals vibrant colours and steaming geysers. Te Puia offers cultural immersion with Maori songs and haka dancing. Adventure beckons in Whakarewarewa forest with ziplining and luging. At night, the town comes alive with Maori fires and twinkling stars. Mitai Maori Village offers an insight into traditional customs and hangi meals. Rotorua is the unique fusion of nature and culture. The special blend between natural geysers and Maori heritage will stay with you for a long time.

The Bay of Plenty or Te Moana-a-Toi is a region in the North Island of New Zealand that covers 9,500 km² of coastal marine area and 12,200 km² of land. Here the earth is alive with geothermal activity so expect steaming hot springs, salt water pools, geysers and active volcanoes. The area attracts local and international visitors looking for a relaxed seaside holiday combined with adventure activities. It's no wonder that Lord of the Rings director Peter Jackson chose this area to as the film's location. The region is one of the fastest growing areas in New Zealand, with the city of Tauranga its largest commercial centre.

It's not only the clear blue water, fresh air, surrounding volcanoes and green mountains that make Lake Taupo such a favourite among locals and foreigners; friendly, bustling towns, excellent trout fishing and a number of great outdoor adventure activities ensure visitors flock to the area, especially in high summer. For high flyers there's skydiving and bungy jumping, water lovers can take a cruise to view giant Maori carvings, hire a jetboat or sightsee via a floatplane, and avid cyclist have plenty of trail options. Visit Tongariro National Park, marvel at Huka Falls, or simply relax near the lake, drinking in the perfect sights and sounds.

Wellington is New Zealand's constitutional and cultural capital and has been called 'the coolest little capital in the world'. With its diverse architecture, world-class museums, cultural attractions and award-winning restaurants, Wellington is a popular destination for both local and international travellers. Because of its location in the 'Roaring Forties', the city experiences its fair share of wind, which is why sailing is a popular activity here - with charters offering visitors the experience of a relaxing cruise with stunning views of the city and surrounding bays.

Located at the northeastern tip of New Zealand's South Island, Marlborough is New Zealand's largest wine-growing region with more than 4,000 hectares of vineyards. Lovers of the finer things in life will thoroughly enjoy the many world-class wineries, cafes and restaurants. With an average of 2,400 hours of sunshine per year, Marlborough's climate is the perfect setting to explore the local wildlife and landscape. Highlights include swimming with dolphins, hiking or mountain biking along breathtaking coastal trails, whale watching, kayaking and boat trips. The beautiful Marlborough Sounds, a vast area of valleys drowned by the sea, offer the chance to see fur seals, little blue penguins, dolphins and rare birds. Heritage and aircraft enthusiasts will enjoy the Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre, where historic aircraft are displayed in theatrical performances.

Spanning just under ten thousand square kilometres, the Tasman District is a vast and magical area situated at the northern end of New Zealand’s South Island. Boasting a diverse landscape of mountainous terrain, lush valleys and exquisite white sandy beaches, the Tasman District is home to the world-renowned Abel Tasman National Park, Nelson Lakes National Park, Kahurangi National Park and the magnificent Maruia Falls. With its extensive network of remarkable limestone caves waiting to be explored and a wealth of wildlife and birdlife to thrill even the most avid wildlife enthusiast, it is no surprise that this unspoilt wilderness has become a popular destination for travellers seeking a unique, off-the-beaten-track outdoor adventure.

New Zealand is known for its breathtaking natural beauty, with vast landscapes and unique wildlife. The Southern Alps form a spectacular mountain range on the South Island, with peaks covered in snow and glistening glaciers. Fiordland National Park is home to majestic fjords, including the famous Milford Sound. The northern Bay of Islands offers beautiful islands, turquoise waters and opportunities for sailing and snorkelling. Rotorua on the North Island is famous for its geothermal activity, with bubbling mud pools and spouting geysers. Tongariro National Park is home to the active volcanoes Mount Tongariro, Mount Ngauruhoe and Mount Ruapehu, and offers epic hiking trails such as the Tongariro Alpine Crossing. New Zealand is home to unique native animals, including the iconic kiwi bird and the pukeko. Abel Tasman National Park presents golden beaches, crystal clear waters and one of the country's Great Walks. Queenstown is known as the adventure capital, with bungee jumping, skydiving and other exciting activities. The Te Papa Tongarewa Museum in Wellington offers insight into New Zealand's history and culture. Throughout the country, you will find warm hospitality and a deep-rooted Maori culture that contributes to New Zealand's unique charm.

Nelson, the oldest town on New Zealand’s South Island, lies on the eastern shore of Tasman Bay. With over 2,500 hours of sunshine a year, it is also considered the sunniest city in the country and is the perfect setting to enjoy a range of adventure activities and leisure pursuits – cycling, horse riding, rock climbing, wine tasting at local estates, or simply enjoying the golden beaches and stunning views of Tasman Bay. The city is also renowned for its vibrant arts scene and is a popular hub for creative types; a thriving culinary scene completes the picture. Must-see highlights include Founders Heritage Park, a stunning museum with historical exhibitions; and the World of Wearable Art and Classic Cars Museum, with an iconic collection of classic cars.

Auckland is the largest city in New Zealand, with almost a third of the country's population. With a rich Polynesian heritage, spectacular beaches and vibrant nightlife, Auckland is a world-class destination that has much to offer its visitors. The city stretches from its two lively harbours dotted with superyachts and more than 70000 watercraft. Adrenaline junkies love Auckland for all the recreational activities on offer, including sky jumps, canyoning, kayaking and more. Art galleries, first-class restaurants, shopping centres and markets add to extensive sightseeing in and around the city. Don't miss the chance to visit the iconic Sky Tower and enjoy the stunning views of the city.

The larger of New Zealand's two main islands, the South Island encompasses incredible landscapes - from rainforests to snow-capped mountains, golden beaches and stunning glaciers. Many consider this the home of adventure tourism and adrenaline junkies will be spoilt for choice, with activities such as bungee jumping, kayaking and the six "Great Walks". Although much less populated than its northern counterpart, the South Island has a number of cities and towns worth putting on your itinerary: visit Christchurch for its beautiful parks and gardens; pass through Dunedin to encounter penguin, albatross and seal colonies; or stop by Kaikoura for some of the best whale watching in the world

On the North Island, every turn reveals a new world, from geothermal wonders to vibrant cityscapes, making it a destination where no two days feel the same. Wellington, the nation's capital, combines a dynamic arts and cultural scene with landmarks like Te Papa Museum and Zealandia eco-sanctuary. Auckland, known as the "City of Sails," blends urban sophistication with access to natural havens such as Rangitoto Island and Mt Eden. Adventure awaits in Rotorua, where geothermal marvels like Wai-O-Tapu and therapeutic spas complement immersive Māori cultural experiences. The Coromandel features golden beaches like Cathedral Cove and Hot Water Beach. Northland's Twin Coast Highway leads to Cape Reinga, steeped in spiritual significance. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore the Waitomo Caves, Pouakai Crossing, and Taupō's Huka Falls. For film buffs, the Hobbiton Movie Set brings Middle-earth™ to life. Beneath the waves, the Poor Knights Islands offer a world-class diving experience.

Canterbury is a region on New Zealand's South Island, known for its rugged coastline, diverse wildlife and beautiful turquoise lakes. Canterbury's largest city, Christchurch, is the gateway for tourism on the South Island. Travellers come here for winter sports adventures, countryside walks, mountain tours, bungee jumping, horse riding and whitewater rafting. Those looking for a touch of luxury can spend their time enjoying regional wines, excellent food and high-quality local produce in excellent restaurants. The Tekapo Springs hot springs, overlooking Lake Tekapo and the Two Thumb Mountains, are a must-see attraction.

On the rugged east coast of New Zealand's South Island lies the coastal town of Kaikoura, situated on a rocky peninsula jutting out into the sea, surrounded by farmland at the foot of mountains. This small coastal town has become a popular tourist destination, mainly because of its famous wildlife viewing opportunities. Now it is 'the mecca of nature lovers'. Few places have such a wide range of accessible wildlife. With whales, dolphins, fur seals, penguins and albatrosses often seen, this area is truly a nature lover's dream. Visitors can join the Art Trail to witness skilled local artisans at work in their own studios and galleries.

This remarkably sunny and rather sleepy town is usually used as a base for exploring the town's surrounding wine country, home to some of New Zealand's most prolific and revered vineyards. The area has more than 40 excellent wineries, many of which are conveniently located within 10 km of Blenheim. In and around Blenheim, you will find an impressive array of enticing cafes and restaurants, shops, eateries and some world-class golf courses. The nearby Marlborough Sounds provide an ideal setting for a variety of water sports. Popular attractions include the fascinating Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre, home to a well-restored collection of World War I aircraft, as well as the Marlborough Museum, which displays a variety of interesting local historical artefacts and also houses Beavertown, a replica streetscape based on features of Blenheim circa 1900.

As the closest town to Mt. Hutt, this winter wonderland is primarily known as a mecca for skiers and snowboarders who flock here for the fantastic winter sports facilities and the abundance of après-ski entertainment, with its slew of lively restaurants and boisterous bars. However, if you happen to find yourself here in summer, there will be plenty to keep you blissfully engaged. Popular summertime activities include: jet boating, horse trekking, white-water rafting, hot air ballooning, mountain biking, and fishing. Adventure junkies can do a tandem skydive or take a 4WD journey through some of Canterbury's most unique locations including the famous Mt Sunday. Nature enthusiasts will find some wonderful walking trails through the Mount Hutt Forest Park and at the nearby Pudding Hill Reserve. Whether you are looking for an adrenaline kick or merely a relaxing getaway in a spectacular natural environment, Methven is a great destination choice any time of year.

Located on the southern edge of the great Lake Taupo, the small town of Turangi attracts outdoor activity enthusiasts. Besides its waterfront location, the town also serves as a gateway to the beautiful landscapes of Tongariro National Park, Kaimanawa Forest Park and Kaweka Forest Park. Numerous nature-based activities can be enjoyed here, including hiking, cycling, canoeing, rafting, boating and especially world-class trout fishing. Just outside the town is the Tokaanu Thermal Pools complex with a wide range of communal and private baths fed by mineral-rich hot springs known for their therapeutic properties. Also, don't miss a visit to Opotaka, a historically fortified village where the Maori's famous Ka Mate Haka was created.