New Zealand

FJORDLAND NATIONAL PARK

  • Milford Sound: The most epic of all of the sounds, and the most accessible one – must see from the water or the air

ROTORUA

  • Whakarewarewa – The Living Maori Village: The best way to experience and learn more about the Maori people group, and walk the geothermal trails
  • Redwoods Treewalk: Walk alongside giant redwood trees
  • The National Kiwi Hatchery: A great chance to see Kiwis up close and personal
  • Government Gardens: See native plant and bird life, and some cool local architecture

CHRISTCHURCH

  • Willobank Wildlife Reserve: See more native birds, a great place to also see Kiwis
  • New Regent Street: A great place for food in the city
  • International Antarctic Centre: Immersive experiences about the Antarctic and real penguins
  • Arthur’s Pass Village: A day trip from Christchurch, take the train or drive to get to the start of the south island mountains

NAPIER

  • Gannet Safari: The world’s largest and most accessible Gannet colony
  • Art Deco: Walk and shop through the historic downtown

WELLINGTON

  • Wellington Cable Car: Ride the cable car to the top of the hill
  • Zealandia: An urban ecosanctuary where you can see a wide variety of native birds
  • Waterfront: Walk the harbor and waterfront
  • Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa: New Zealand’s national museum

DUNEDIN

  • The OPERA – Otago Peninsula Eco Restoration Alliance: The best possibility of viewing the world’s rarest penguin, the hoiho (yellow-eyed penguin), in their native habitat
  • Royal Albatross Centre: Visit the world’s only mainland Albatross colony
  • Larnach Castle: Tour New Zealand’s only castle
  • Downtown: Lots of food and shopping in The Octagon, also check out the nearby train station

AUCKLAND

  • City center: Shop and eat throughout the downtown area
  • Devonport: Take the ferry towards Devonport, this offers great views of the city and a fun afternoon exploring a new neighborhood

PRO TIPS:

  1. We saw all of these sights on a cruise, it took alot of planning and a few rental cars, but it was a great way to see so much of the country.
  2. Seeing a Kiwi can be difficult if you don’t plan ahead. If your goal is to see one, make plans in advance!
  3. Do not miss the cultural performance at the Maori village!