10 Reasons to Visit New Zealand
One of Australia’s closest neighbours across the ditch (Tasman Sea), is the land of the Kiwi, New Zealand. Because it is so close and has very affordable air fares, I have visited New Zealand on many occasions, and not just to ski the slopes, but to marvel at its splendour. I can give you at least 10 reasons to visit New Zealand that will have you lusting for more.
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New Zealand
The country is actually comprised of two islands, aptly named the South Island and North Island. The South Island is renowned for its sharp mountain peaks and fiordlands, whilst the North Island is renowned for its volcanic activity, caldera lakes and beautiful beaches on the west coast.
New Zealand is also renowned for its superb wine growing regions and vast sheep farming. In fact there are 39 million sheep in New Zealand, which is just over eight times their population. That’s why there is a standing joke that refers to New Zealanders as “sheep shaggers”! For an ultimate New Zealand itinerary check out these suggestions:
Best Way to See New Zealand
Without a doubt the best way to see New Zealand is by hiring a car and self-driving your way around the country or rent your own home on wheels with a motorhome. Book your Motorhome rental HERE
1. New Zealand Skiing
The South Island has the best skiing on offer with a choice of ski resorts, such as The Remarkables and Coronet Peak (Queenstown); Cardrona and Treble Cone (Wanaka); Mt Hutt in the Canterbury region. Generally July and August is when New Zealand gets most of its snowfall.
2. New Zealand Fiordlands
Although difficult to access across the South Island’s mountain ranges on the west coast, Milford Sound and Doubtful Sound are the two most popular fiords in New Zealand. The beautiful lakeside towns of Te Anau and Manapouri are also located within Fiordland National Park, and the area is known as the sightseeing and walking capital of the world.
3. Queenstown
Nestled between mountain ranges and set on the shores of Lake Wakatipu, Queenstown is known as the “adventure capital” of New Zealand. Outdoor enthusiasts and adrenalin junkies flock to Queenstown for the kayaking, bungee jumping, jetboating, white-water rafting, mountain biking, hiking and skiing.
4. New Zealand Glaciers
Providing some of the best “ice architecture” in the world, Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers are located on the west coast of the South Island. There are a variety of guided glacier walks and climbing experiences, to suit all ages and abilities. Plus heli-hikes and scenic flights with or without snow landings are also available.
5. Aoraki/Mt Cook
The highest mountain in New Zealand, Mt Cook with its glacial surrounds, pristine blue lakes and towering alpine peaks is a hikers and photographer’s dream. You can stay at the bottom of the mountain at the village of Mount Cook and embark on hikes from here or take a scenic flight over Mt Cook.
6. New Zealand’s Geothermal Centre
Rotorua, on the North Island is renowned for its geothermal activity with hot springs, thermal parks and surging geysers. The city is located on the shores of Lake Rotorua and is also famed for its Maori culture with a living Maori village. Nearby is Lake Taupo, a caldera lake and the Waikato River and Haku Falls. Trout fishing is very popular in the river.
7. Bay of Islands
Located in the subtropical north, the Bay of Islands encompasses 144 islands between Cape Brett and the Purerua Peninsula and includes the boutique towns of Opua, Paihia, Russell and Kerikeri. The area is a boaties and yachtsman paradise with an abundance of fish and wildlife including penguins, dolphins, marlin, whales, gannets and more.
8. Coromandel Peninsula
The Coromandel Peninsula juts out from the east coast of the North Island, only 168 kms from Auckland. The densely vegetated and hilly peninsula has some lovely little coves and beaches and stunning views from the steep hill tops. What I loved about the peninsula was the fact that it is predominantly unspoilt and untouched.
9. Auckland
New Zealand’s largest city is geographically blessed with its location on two harbours and surrounding lush green countryside. A must do is to scale the iconic Sky Tower that has spectacular views of Viaduct Harbour, full of super yachts and lined with bars and cafes. Jump aboard a cruise on the stunning Waitemata Harbour and take in the unique Auckland landscape from the water.
10. West Coast Beaches
Think of the movie The Piano and the mesmerising beach scenery. It was filmed on location along the West Coast beaches of New Zealand. Less than an hour’s drive from Auckland on the west coast are some of the most striking surf beaches bordering the Tasman Sea. Whatipu, Karekare, Piha, Bethells and Muriwai beaches all feature volcanic black sand, rocky clifftops and good surfing waves. You can also walk all of these beaches as part of the multi-day Hillary Trail.
On each one of my trips to New Zealand it has revealed something different and rare. The scenery is breathtaking wherever you look and the best way to see it is to hire a car or campervan, design your own itinerary and get on the road and experience it for yourself. I could easily return here again and again and still lust for more.
If I was only ever allowed to travel to one country (heaven forbid the very idea) that country would be NZ. I’m not a huge fan of Auckland, but other than that? Just love the place. Queenstown is my fave, but Queen Charlotte Sounds, Fjordland, Mt Aspiring NP, Golden Bay….I could go on & on & on
I’ve actually enjoyed every place that I’ve travelled to in New Zealand. I feel as if there is more to explore here and would love to go back. My husband is interested in doing a bike ride and I’m very interested in doing a hike. For such a small country it certainly packs a punch. #TeamLovinLife
That looks so beautiful!
It’s an incredibly beautiful country. I could return again and again. #TeamLovinLife
I’m drooling over your photos, Kathy! I don’t need 10 reasons to visit New Zealand because having visited several times I believe it is such a gorgeous country full of natural beauty. I loved cruising through Milford and Doubtful Sounds – spectacular but I also enjoyed the two road trips we did. It certainly has much to offer. Thanks for making my morning with beautiful photos.
New Zealand does have a lot to offer. I’m very interested in doing some hiking on one of the adventure trails. I’m not sure whether I’ll be able to do this next year but maybe in 2019. #TeamLovinLife
Your photos are breathtaking!
Thank you. New Zealand is a very picturesque country. #TeamLovinLife
Aoraki looks so stunning!!
Oh yes it is an amazing place in New Zealand. I would love to do a heli-hike here. #TeamLovinLife
I must confess I’ve not seen much of NZ and only been twice. I went in winter in the late 1990s with a friend and climbed a glacier, attempted skiing and saw snow. And then late last year I went to see my bestie in Christchurch in summer.
I’ve still only been to a small part of the south island though and probably should make more of an effort given it’s on our doorstep and everyone agrees it’s incredibly beautiful.
New Zealand is a must see holiday destination and so close and affordable to get to. I would be happy to return to see some more of the spectacular scenery that it has to offer. On my next visit I’d love to incorporate a challenging hike. #TeamLovinLife
I so so want to visit NZ – and am hoping that 2018 will be the year. But so much to see, and I’m sure I’ll want to stay forever – dangerous! Your photos have enticed me … now I’m wondering – how long should a maiden exploration be, and would a camper van trip be the best, or do you think B and B’s rather?
We’ve been to New Zealand on four occasions, the first two times was purely to ski on some of the ski resorts on the South Island. On a couple of occasions we’ve hired a car and toured around staying at hotels/B&Bs. I think a campervan would also be perfect, but it is very mountainous so it would depend on your confidence in driving a campervan up the steep slopes. During winter the South Island can be cloaked in snow so avoid that time of year. #TeamLovinLife
I love New Zealand, it is so picturesque. Hopefully I will get back there one day soon.
Isn’t it a pretty country? I’m hoping to travel back here soon. #TeamLovinLife
Love your pics of NZ Kathy. Its such a gorgeous place to visit 🙂 #teamlovinlife
Thanks Lyndall. NZ is indeed a picturesque country. I’ve enjoyed each time we’ve visited. #TeamLovinLife
Wow Kathy!!
You make me want to jump on a plane and come visit ASAP!!
XOOX
Jodie
http://www.jtouchofstyle.com
That’s the idea! I think you should come to Australia first however and then a side trip to New Zealand. :) #TeamLovinLife
Beautiful photo’s Kathy, they are a great reminder, as to why i’m so lucky to call this amazing country home. With the big move back into the city side of Auckland almost complete, I’m looking forward to spending lots of time wondering around our amazing harbour front.
Thanks Jenni. You would know first hand then how magnificent New Zealand is. I only spent a day in Auckland but I thought the harbour was very pretty. #TeamLovinLife
I went to New Zealand for my honeymoon and I love it, I think it’s time for me to go back!
I think you should definitely return. New Zealand has so much to offer. :) #TeamLovinLife
I would love to visit New Zealand- love the contrast in places. One day…
Yes New Zealand is a country of contrasts. I’m looking forward to seeing more of it in the future. #TeamLovinLife
New Zealand has been on my travel bucket list for the longest time, Kathy. Perhaps 2018 will be the year.
SSG xxx
It’s certainly an affordable travel destination for us Aussies. You can fly here from Australia in 3 hours and then get on a tour or do a self-drive holiday easily. #TeamLovinLife
Great photos. I’m sure they are making someone pack their bags right now. I’ve been to the South Island twice and I know I’ll be back,
Yes me too Jan. I’ve enjoyed every single visit to New Zealand and know that there is much more of it I would like to explore. #TeamLovinLife
I loved Queenstown. I went there for work once. I really would like to go back and do the north island.
PS How big is Lyndall’s smiley face!!!! LOL
We love Queenstown too and have been there at least three times. I’ve only visited the North Island once, but really enjoyed it. It’s a big contrast to the South Island. Lyndall does have a lovely big smiley face! I think being in the foreground made it look bigger than in real life! #TeamLovinLife
Fabulous post! Just back from NZ for the third time and reading this was so enjoyable – felt like I was still there :-)
Favourite place for me has always been Akaroa, but this was the first time I’d been to the Bay of Islands.
If my life and family weren’t so deeply rooted here in Queensland I could move over to NZ in a heartbeat.
If for no other reason but the wine – LOL.
Thank you Joycee. I adore New Zealand as well and there is so much more of this country that I would like to see. I think my favourite spot is Queenstown and yes the wine is pretty good!
We have always had New Zealand on our travel list but have never managed to get there. Now NZ is the only overseas destination on our travel list, so heres hoping in the next couple of years we will ge to see this beautiful country. Happy travels Cathy.
New Zealand is totally underrated as a travel destination. We’re hoping to travel here again in the not too distant future, once our international border opens up. From a photographer’s point of view you would love it. It’s an extremely picturesque country.