Choose from 212 Fun Things to Do in New Zealand
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Milford Sound
With its soaring cliffs, dramatic glacial valleys, and thundering waterfalls, it’s easy to see why Milford Sound is one of New Zealand’s most visited sights. This natural wonder is the star attraction of Fiordland National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and wildlife haven for dolphins, seals, and penguins.
The Basics
Whether you cruise around the fjord, fly overhead in a helicopter, or explore Fiordland National Park by coach, Milford Sound is unforgettable from all angles. Most tours of the fjord run from Queenstown or Te Anau, and also visit highlights such as Mitre Peak, Bowen Falls, and Mount Pembroke.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The weather in Milford Sound can be unpredictable, so prepare for wind and rain even in summer.
- If hiking, wear comfortable shoes and bring plenty of water, as places to purchase supplies are limited.
- Cell phone coverage is limited, but free Wi-Fi is available at the Milford Sound Information Center.
- Most Milford Sound cruises are wheelchair accessible, but not all activities within Fiordland National Park are accessible to those with limited mobility, so it’s best to check in advance.
How to Get There
Milford Sound is located on the southwest coast of New Zealand’s South Island, about 178 miles (287 kilometers) or 3.5 hours by road from Queenstown, and two hours by road from Te Anau. The quickest way to get to Milford Sound is by taking a plane tour from Queenstown, where the nearest international airport is located.
When to Get There
Summer (December through February) is the most popular time to visit Milford Sound, so if you want to avoid crowds, opt for spring or autumn. Winter visitors will be at the weather’s mercy, but tours and accommodation can be cheaper during this time and the area’s snow-covered peaks are a sight to see.
Natural Wonders of Fiordland National Park
The journey to Milford Sound is just as impressive as the fjord itself, and photo opportunities abound along the Milford Road. Stop at Pop’s Lookout, Mirror Lakes, and Eglinton Valley; marvel at the views as you pass the Chasm and Homer Tunnel; and look out over Lake Wakatipu, Lake Te Anau, and the Remarkables mountain range.
Address: Fiordland National Park, New Zealand
Admission: Free
From $ 32
Milford Track
Lush, rugged and impossibly scenic, the Milford Track is the gold standard of all of New Zealand’s hiking trails. In a country already known for its hiking, this famous track through the heart of Fiordland has been known to trump all others. Tramp your way through alpine scenery where mountains thrust upwards from the lakeshore, and walk beneath the famous Sutherland Falls that spill 1,900 feet down the mountainside. Delve through forests that are brilliantly painted in nearly every shade of green, and then finally emerge at the placid waters of famous Milford Sound.
Practical Info
As one of New Zealand’s famous “Great Walks,” the trail on the Milford Track is well defined and accessible to most levels of hikers. The trail is 31 miles long, takes four days to complete and has shelter provided in pre-booked huts along the way. The trail begins at Glade Wharf along the shores of Lake Te Anau and reaches a dramatic terminus when it finishes at Milford Sound. It can only be walked in one direction (it’s easy to arrange transport back to Te Anau), and the hiking season is only open from late October until late April. Reservations are essential for hiking, and space can regularly be fully booked up to six months in advance.
Address: Fiordland National Park, Southland, Fiordland, New Zealand
From $ 298
Matamata
Before there was Frodo and the Eye of Sauron, and before there was Mordor and the city of Edoras, there was the affable Hobbit, Bilbo Baggins, and his utopian home in the Shire. From these rolling green hills which are peppered with hobbit holes, and simple dwellings where Gandalf must crouch, Frodo would set out on his epic adventure which was chronicled in the Lord of the Rings.
Now, with the release of The Hobbit movie series, the area around Hobbiton has skyrocketed in fame as the Shire becomes central to the tale. More than just hobbits and wizards and horsemen, you, too, have the chance to visit the Shire on a trip to the town of Matamata.
Set in the hills to the east of Cambridge about two hours outside of Auckland, Matamata was the filming location for the joyous home of the hobbits. When filming was finished for the Lord of the Rings, the hobbit holes remained in the pasture they were set in since they blended so seamlessly with the landscape. There is even a sign that says “Welcome to Hobbiton!” that sits at the entrance to the hills. You can walk inside of the Green Dragon Inn, see the famous party tree, and learn about how the movies were filmed which took place in this very same spot.
More than just a look at the Shire, a trip to Matamata is also a glimpse of life in rural New Zealand. Farming and ranching are still a way of life in these rolling, grass-covered hills, and it’s a journey to the heart of where it all began for the world’s most captivating films.
Address: Matamata, New Zealand
From $ 246
Maori Arts and Crafts Institute (Te Puia)
Te Puia, the Maori Arts and Crafts Institute was established by the New Zealand Parliament to guard and preserve Maori culture, housing the national schools of carving and weaving. Visitors interact with master craftsmen as they turn native hardwood and plant fibers into beautiful pieces of traditional art, spinning stories as they work.
Touring the facilities is interesting, informative and not to be missed, but the highlight is Te Po, Te Puia's authentic evening experience. As evening falls, you'll assemble in a carved meeting space and go on to participate in Maori rituals of friendship and greetting. As the night progresses, you'll feast on traditional cuisine as your guides will share Maori heritage, song and weaponry.
Te Puia is also the staging area for tours of the Te Whakarewarewa Thermal Valley, where there are numerous geysers and 3 regularly erupt - Kereru, Tohu and the world famous Pohutu geyser, which erupts around 20 times a day reaching heights of up to 30m (100ft).
In addition to preserving to the Maori culture through performances and demonstrations, Te Puia also preserves New Zealand national culture with the Kiwi House. As its name implies, the Kiwi House is dedicated to helping the little flightless birds in their fight against extinction.
Address: Hemo Road, Rotorua, Rotorua, New Zealand
Hours: Open daily. Summer: 8am – 6pm (until 5pm in Winter)
Admission: Adults: NZ$40 - NZ$130, Children (5-15yrs): NZ$20 - NZ$65
From $ 40
Marlborough
When it comes to wine, the hills of Marlborough are alive with the sweet aroma of Sauvignon Blanc. This area on the northern tip of the South Island is renowned for its award-winning wine, and with over 160 different wineries, the area is New Zealand’s leading region for growing and exporting wine. Even with all of its accolades, however, there’s more to Marlborough than clinking glasses in sunny, grape-filled fields. Grab some boots and hike the length of the 42-mile Queen Charlotte Track—a serpentine route through the myriad curves of coastal Marlborough Sound. Explore the back roads of Marlborough’s coast and camp in its hidden bays, where Maori, whalers, and shipwrecked sailors have all left historical marks. Picton is the port of call for the ferry that crosses the strait to Wellington, but is also a town with salty charm and authentic maritime heritage. Hire a bike and explore the trails that weave through Marlborough Sound, or enjoy a glass of Sauvignon in one of Blenheim’s café. Or, to mix adventure with Marlborough’s vineyards, pedal your way between tasting rooms by hiring a bike in Blenheim, and drink in the rolling, Marlborough scenery in one of New Zealand’s sunniest spots.
Practical Info
The Marlborough region is located four hours from Christchurch via the coastal road through Kaikoura. By ferry, the town of Picton is approximately three hours from the capital city of Wellington, or it’s also possible to fly into regional airports in Blenheim as well as Nelson.
Address: Marlborough, New Zealand, New Zealand
From $ 46
Mount Eden
Auckland is covered in pretty volcanic mounds, and Mount Eden is one of the most famous. You can drive or hike to the summit for sweeping views right out into the harbor. The mount also lends its name to the upmarket suburb below, a lively neighborhood with hip coffee shops and bars.
The Basics
Mount Eden is 3 miles (4.8 kilometers) from central Auckland. At 643 feet (196 meters), it’s the city’s highest natural lookout point—a good place for city views and to get a feel for the area’s broad geography. The spacious Eden Garden, at the foot of the mound, is home to many native bird and plant species.
Visible from much of Auckland, Mount Eden is hard to miss. Many guided tours stop at the mount for the views, or at some of the museums, galleries, parks, and other attractions around the neighborhood.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The broader Mount Eden suburb is home to the Auckland War Memorial Museum and the Auckland Domain park, both of which are highly worth visiting.
- Mount Eden Road is full of vintage stores, book shops, cafés and bars.
- Sports fans should check out Eden Park, a stadium that hosts some of New Zealand’s biggest rugby and cricket matches.
How to Get There
Mount Eden can be reached from central Auckland by local bus (LINK service) or train (on the Western line). It’s also easy to reach by car as it’s very close to central Auckland. Walking paths lead up Mount Eden from six directions, so whichever way you come from you are likely to find a trail. Note that tour buses can only drive halfway to the top of the mount, from which it’s a 10-minute walk to the summit.
When to Get There
Anytime is a good time to visit Mount Eden. During wet weather, retreat to a shop or gallery, and when it’s fine out, hike up the hill or relax in a park. Spend an evening exploring the neighborhood’s trendy bars and restaurants. The entrance to the road to the summit is open 7am to 8:30pm in summer and 7am to 7pm in winter.
Hike the Coast-to-Coast Walkway
For more than just a short hike to the summit, Mount Eden also connects to a 9.5-mile (15-kilometer) coastal walkway that runs from the Tasman coast at Manukau to Waitemata Harbour on the Pacific side. Although it leads through the big city of Auckland, the walk includes many parks, small forests, and wildlife habitats.
Address: Mt Eden, Auckland, New Zealand
From $ 25
Milford Sound Discovery Centre and Underwater Observatory
For as stunning as the Milford Sound scenery can be when viewed above the water, there’s an entire other, underwater world that visitors rarely see. Thankfully, the Milford Sound Discovery and Underwater Observatory allows visitors to journey beneath the waves without even getting their hair wet. After descending over 30 feet beneath the Milford Sound surface, see rare species of black coral and schools of colorful fish, all from the air-conditioned, protected enclosure of the underwater observatory. Aside from simply catching a glimpse of the underwater environment, travelers can also visit the discovery center that’s located above the surface, and hear the ancient Maori history of Milford, or Piopiotahi. There are even videos of terrifying avalanches crashing down on the Milford Road, and documentaries showing the struggles of building the Milford Tunnel.
Practical Info
The Milford Sound Discovery Center and Underwater Observatory are offered as add-ons to Southern Discoveries cruises within the Sound. It’s the only floating structure in the Sound, and accessing the bottom of the underwater observatory requires walking down 64 steps.
Address: Harrison’s Cove, Milford Sound 9600, New Zealand
Hours: Open daily 9am-4pm
Admission: Adults: $36; Children: $18
From $ 33
Mount Cook (Aoraki)
The highest peak in New Zealand, the magnificent Mt. Cook (Aoraki) stands 12,349 feet (3,764 meters) tall.
The Maori name Aoraki means "cloud piercer" and its striking beauty makes it one of the island's finest mountains. Of New Zealand’s 27 mountains over 8,400 feet (3,000 meters) 22 of them are in this mountain range offering a spectacular display of snow-capped peaks and lush rainforested slopes.
The mountains glacial lakes are popular with people wanting to fish and sail while the rest of the mountain offers horse riding, 4x4 safaris, scenic flights and excellent mountain climbing for experienced climbers. Sir Edmund Hillary reached the summit of Mt. Cook in 1948 before climbing Everest in 1953.
The Tasman Glacier falls down the east side of the mountain with the Hooker Glacier falls to the west. It is possible to take guided skiing trips on Tasman Glacier while Hooker Glacier offers some excellent walking tracks.
Practical Info
Mount Cook Village is also referred to as "The Hermitage" and is situated 7.5 miles (12 kilometers) from the summit. It’s a popular base with climbers and tourists. It is a 2.5 hour drive from both Christchurch and Queenstown.
Address: New Zealand
Hours: Open daily
Admission: Free
From $ 212
Mirror Lakes
Though Milford Sound is inarguably one of New Zealand’s most popular attractions, the Road to Milford is as much of a sight as the actual Sound itself. Lined with waterfalls, vistas, and trails, the road to Milford is a weaving journey that’s best when traveled slowly—taking time to enjoy the sights and break up the lengthy drive. One of those sights is Mirror Lakes, where small lakes often bear the reflection of the snowcapped Earl Mountains. It’s only a short walk on a wooden boardwalk to reach the popular lakes, and aside from it being a nice place to stretch and shake out your legs from the sitting, there’s an alpine serenity and sense of calm that accompanies the lakeshore scene. Oftentimes, mornings will have the calmest conditions and the least amount of wind, which reduces the ripples and increases the chance of a classic mountain reflection. This is the perfect spot for landscape photographers to capture the beauty of Milford, and perhaps go home with a shot that captures a different side of the journey.
Practical Info
The Mirror Lakes walk is located about 34 miles north of Te Anau, and there is plenty of parking in the associated parking lot as well as along the roadside. Average hiking time is about 10 minutes, and the trail is only about ¼ mile long and is well maintained and signposted.
Address: Te Anau, New Zealand
From $ 120
Marlborough Sounds
Set at the top of New Zealand’s South Island, the Marlborough Sounds amazingly comprise one fifth of New Zealand’s coastline. Not because the region is large, however, but simply because the serpentine coast weaves in and out of so many bays it massively adds to the mileage. Here the coastline is so stunningly rugged that mail is still delivered by boat to towns that are cut off from roads, and visitors can actually ride along with the boat that’s delivering mail. It’s a rural time capsule that hearkens back to life in the 1800s, where sheep still roam the forested hills and fishermen ply the waters for mussels and live off the bounty of the sea.
For an authentic experience in Marlborough Sounds, hop aboard a seafood cruise to sample the clams, mussels, and salmon the Marlborough area is known for. Or, to scour the shore on your own two feet, hike the famous Queen Charlotte Track that weaves through Queen Charlotte Sound, or pedal your way up rolling green peaks by renting a mountain bike in town.
Practical Info
Nearly all tours of the Marlborough Sounds depart from the town of Picton. The most popular way of reaching Picton is aboard a ferry that crosses the Strait from neighboring Wellington on the North Island.
Did You Know? From 1888 until 1912, a dolphin by the name of Pelorus Jack would help mariners find safe passage through the treacherous, narrow French Pass.
Address: Picton, South Island, New Zealand
From $ 70
Mount Cook Hermitage Hotel
Don’t miss the chance to stay in New Zealand’s most famous hotel, the Hermitage.
In prime position with fabulous views of Mount Cook, there’s been a hotel on this site since 1884. Several incarnations later, the current building dates from the late 1950s, with a new multistory wing which was added in the past decade.
A visit is a must even if you’re not staying here. The hotel has a well-regarded restaurant, offering a la carte, buffet or informal cafe-style dining. And, of course, a drink with mountain views at the bar, beside a crackling fireside, is another essential Mount Cook experience.
Practical Info
The Hermitage hotel dominates the northern edge of Mount Cook village. The hotel’s chalets, motel rooms and lodge accommodation are in several locations around the village.
Address: Terrace Road, Mount Cook 7946, New Zealand
Hours: Open daily
Admission: Free
From $ 136
Motutapu Island
Located alongside the scenic island of Rangitoto, the emerald landscapes, striking coastline and thick forests of Motutapu Island attract visitors from across the globe. Sandy beaches and easy walking paths offer up plenty of opportunity for rest and relaxation, while the 300 Maori archeological sites that scatter the land showcase a rich history and detail ancient lives of early inhabitants.
Travelers can explore one of the Island’s popular walking tracks, like the Motutapu Walkway, which connects the causeway to Rangitoto and the Matutapu ferry dock. Several World War II military sites in the northern junction offer history buffs with a look at gun pits, shelters and other fortresses. Outdoor adventurers can overnight at one of the island’s popular campsites and those looking to give back can volunteer at the Motutapu Restoration Trust, where locals and out-of-towners work alongside each other to plant trees, clean up beaches and monitor wildlife.
Practical Info
The island is located in the Hauraki Gulf, just northeast of the city of Auckland. It is easily accessible by local ferry from the city and the ride is approximately 30 minutes. The ferry only operates on weekends and public holidays.
Address: Auckland 1010, New Zealand
From $ 159
MJ Savage Memorial Park
Michael Joseph Savage is often regarded as the most popular Prime Minister of New Zealand. Not only did Savage lead the nation into the depths of World War II, but he was the founder of many of the social programs which still exist to this day.
Although he passed away in 1940 at the age of 68, his memory lives on near the Auckland waterfront at the park which bears his name. At MJ Savage Memorial Park, not only can you pay your respects to one of New Zealand’s most loved politicians, but you can enjoy the ornately-landscape surroundings and drink in the stunning view.
Located a five minute drive from downtown Auckland, the park sits along a stretch of waterfront which lies just east of the city. The view from the park gazes out over the water towards symmetrical Rangitoto Island, and the famous skyline of Waitemata Harbor occupies the view to the west. From this vantage point, it’s easy to see why it’s considered one of the best views of Auckland you’ll get from along the waterfront.
Once you’ve walked the grounds, toured the mausoleum, and snapped photos in front of the reflection pool, you can walk down the hill to Mission Bay and enjoy the popular eateries and cafés. While tour buses occasionally make stops at the MJ Savage Memorial Park, this is somewhat of a removed attraction you’ll be more than happy you stumbled upon.
Although he passed away in 1940 at the age of 68, his memory lives on near the Auckland waterfront at the park which bears his name. At MJ Savage Memorial Park, not only can you pay your respects to one of New Zealand’s most loved politicians, but you can enjoy the ornately-landscape surroundings and drink in the stunning view.
Located a five minute drive from downtown Auckland, the park sits along a stretch of waterfront which lies just east of the city. The view from the park gazes out over the water towards symmetrical Rangitoto Island, and the famous skyline of Waitemata Harbor occupies the view to the west. From this vantage point, it’s easy to see why it’s considered one of the best views of Auckland you’ll get from along the waterfront.
Once you’ve walked the grounds, toured the mausoleum, and snapped photos in front of the reflection pool, you can walk down the hill to Mission Bay and enjoy the popular eateries and cafés. While tour buses occasionally make stops at the MJ Savage Memorial Park, this is somewhat of a removed attraction you’ll be more than happy you stumbled upon.
Address: MJ Savage Memorial Park, Auckland, New Zealand
From $ 37
Manukau Heads Lighthouse
When it comes to the waters surrounding Auckland, popular Waitemata Harbor tends to get all the attention. This is probably because it fronts the city and is lined with sailboats and yachts, but many visitors aren’t even aware that Auckland has a second harbor. Forming the city’s southern boundary, Manukau Harbor is the industrial cousin to flashy Waitemata.
While the cargo ships don’t have the same charm as ferries to wine covered islands, there are still places in Manukau Harbor with beauty its neighbor can’t match. One such spot is the Manukau Heads Lighthouse, a lonely outpost at the harbor entrance facing the Tasman Sea.
Originally constructed in 1874, the lighthouse is one of a handful in New Zealand where it’s still possible to scale the steps and stand in the lightkeeper’s den. Unfortunately, the lighthouse was erected a few years too late, as 11 years prior, in 1863, the HMS Orpheus ran aground on a nearby Manukau reef. In the end, 189 sailors drowned in the waters just off the lighthouse, and the event remains New Zealand’s largest maritime disaster.
Today, Manukau Heads looks much the same as it did in the 1800s, with rolling fields and pastureland abutting the mostly-calm waters. If you’re lucky, it’s sometimes possible to spot whales and dolphins swimming near the mouth of the harbor—with one species, the Maui Dolphin, being the rarest dolphin in the world. On clear days, the summit of snowcapped Mt. Taranaki can often be seen to the south, and the shiny, steel Auckland skyline floats on the northern horizon.
Practical Info
The Manukau Heads Lighthouse is open from 9am-5pm daily. It’s located approximately 63 miles from downtown Auckland, or 1 hour and 45 minutes by car. Be sure to pack food, water, and snacks, as there aren’t any shops or supplies, although there’s a small restroom by the parking lot at the base of the lighthouse steps.
Address: Manukau Heads, New Zealand
Hours: Open from 9am-5pm daily
From $ 209
Mitai Maori Village
Travelers don’t need to venture all the way to the bush for a taste of traditional New Zealand life thanks to the conveniently located Mitai Maori Village. This authentic cultural destination showcases the famed warriors in traditional attire and grants visitors unlimited access to their unique ways of life.
From hand-carved canoe rides to an evening hike through a glowworm forest, to a stop at a sacred freshwater spring a Mitai Maori Village trip features all the highlights in a single evening of fun. Travelers can sample a hangi meal cooked in the earth and enjoy a night of entertainment that includes poi dancing, hand-to-hand combat performances and traditional ta moko tattooing.
Practical Info
The village is located on Fairy Springs Road in Ngongotaha. Shows usually start at 6:30 p.m. and last for three hours.
Address: 196 Fairy Springs Road, Rotorua, New Zealand
Hours: Open every evening except for Christmas Day
Admission: Adults: $116 NZD; Child (10-15) $57.50 NZD; Child (5-9) $22.50 NZD
From $ 83
Mission Estate Winery
New Zealand produces some of the world’s most renowned, award-winning wines, and Mission Estate Winery on the outskirts of Napier is where it all began. Founded in 1851, Mission Estate was started by missionaries who journeyed from France with little more than a dream and a couple of vines. Now, nearly two centuries later, Mission Estate continues to operate as one of New Zealand’s best wineries, and is a staple on any shore excursion or wine tasting tour of Napier.
Head down the tree lined driveway toward the old fashioned estate and its fountain, and you'll immediately fall for the history and regal charm of the area. Step outside on the hilltop veranda for a view of the vineyard landscapes leading back to Napier’s downtown or to sip in the sun protected by the shade of one of the winery's big, white outdoor umbrellas.
Practical Info
Mission Estate Winery is located around 5 miles (8 km) from the heart of downtown Napier, and is about a 10-minute drive. You can access the winery by car, bike, and organized tour—a great option for anyone looking to enjoy their wine without drawing straws for designated driver.
The winery is open daily from 9am to 5pm Monday through Saturday, and from 10:30am to 4:30pm on Sunday.
Did You Know? Along the Mission Estate driveway, there is still one row of Muscat grapes that have been grafted from the original vines that were brought by the French missionaries.
Address: 198 Church Road, Napier, Hawkes Bay, New Zealand
Hours: Mon–Sat: 9am–5pm; Sun: 10:30am–4:30pm
From $ 39
Maori Rock Carvings at Mine Bay
The unique art and handicrafts produced by New Zealand’s Maori population are among the country’s most vibrant and celebrated art works. There are few better examples of the Maori Rock carvings at Mine Bay. One of the most striking attractions of Lake Taupo, the immense carvings adorn the cliff faces of the bay, towering over 10 meters high.
Although the designs appear like the remains of an ancient Maori settlement, they were in fact carved by artist Matahi Whakataka-Brightwell in the 1970s, taking three summers to complete. The dramatic works are some of the largest rock art of their kind in the world, depicting Ngatoroirangi – the Maori visionary who guided the Tuwharetoa and Te Arawa tribes to Lake Taupo over a thousand years before. Flanking Ngatoroirangi are two smaller carvings depicting the south wind and a mermaid, and utilizing traditional Maori stone-carving techniques.
Only viewable from the water, visiting the Maori Rock Carvings is a popular boat excursion from Taupo, but it’s also possible to get there by kayak, offering an incredible up close view of the figures as you float beneath the cliffs.
Although the designs appear like the remains of an ancient Maori settlement, they were in fact carved by artist Matahi Whakataka-Brightwell in the 1970s, taking three summers to complete. The dramatic works are some of the largest rock art of their kind in the world, depicting Ngatoroirangi – the Maori visionary who guided the Tuwharetoa and Te Arawa tribes to Lake Taupo over a thousand years before. Flanking Ngatoroirangi are two smaller carvings depicting the south wind and a mermaid, and utilizing traditional Maori stone-carving techniques.
Only viewable from the water, visiting the Maori Rock Carvings is a popular boat excursion from Taupo, but it’s also possible to get there by kayak, offering an incredible up close view of the figures as you float beneath the cliffs.
Address: New Zealand
From $ 20
Mitre Peak
Set smack in the middle of Milford Sound, Mitre Peak is the undisputed star in an already impressive show. Craggy, lonely and often shrouded in mist, this iconic spire thrusts a mile upwards from the placid waters of the Sound. When you arrive in Milford Sound after the serpentine road through the mountains, Mitre Peak rises before you like a sentinel to congratulate you on making the journey. This is easily one of the most oft-photographed sites in New Zealand—and when you stare at its stoic profile against the water you can immediately
understand why.
To get a closer view of Mitre Peak, crane your neck upwards at the 5,500-foot summit during a cruise of Milford Sound. Or, paddle beneath its alpine shadow as you kayak in search of marine life.
Practical Info
Mitre Peak is located in Milford Sound about 73 miles from Te Anau. You can view the peak as part of a guided tour from either Te Anau or Queenstown, or drive yourself on the winding road that weaves its way toward the Sound. The summer months of December through March are the most popular time to visit, and while this can also be the wettest time of the year, it makes for dozens of wispy waterfalls that seem to cascade from the sky.
Address: Fiordland National Park, Milford Sound, Fiordland, New Zealand
From $ 33
Mona Vale
Mona Vale is a sanctuary of calm in the midst of bustling Christchurch. Gardens lined with rhododendrons and camellia sit next to a brilliant fernery, and a colorful rose garden provides the perfect moment for stopping to smell the flowers. The 13-acre gardens border the Avon River, and surround a homestead of Victorian architecture that is listed on the historic registry. Dating back to 1897, the elegant property has seen numerous owners make their own improvements to the grounds, and the exceptional gardens are a favorite location for wedding ceremonies in summer.
Unfortunately, the devastating earthquake of 2011 damaged many of the historic buildings, although the gardens remain open for strolling the grounds and drooling over the architecture from afar. In 2014, however, the city council approved the funds for the renovation of Mona Vale, and the famous buildings such as the Bath House and Homestead will be once again be open for visitors. Though nowhere as large as Hagley Park that dominates the center of Christchurch, the boutique nature of this Fendalton estate makes it one of Christchurch’s most peaceful outings.
Address: Riccarton, Christchurch 8011, New Zealand
From $ 25
Mackenzie Basin
Most places in New Zealand are known for the attractions that make the area famous. In the case of the Mackenzie Basin, however, it’s what isn’t here—rather than what is—that make it such a legendary spot. Located between the cities of Queenstown and Christchurch, the Mackenzie Basin is a vast swath of dry, undulating grasslands, where the snow-capped peaks of the Southern Alps dramatically rise above the plains. Of the five villages inside of the basin, Twizel is the largest with about 1,000 people, whereas Tekapo, Omarama, Fairlie, and Mt Cook Village all have fewer than 800.
With the dry, clear skies and lack of development, the stars at night shine brighter here than anywhere else in New Zealand, which has led to the establishment of the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve. By day, the famously turquoise Lake Tekapo is a favorite of South Island photographers—not only for the stunning Church of the Good Shepard that silently sits near the shore, but also for the epic alpine backdrop that’s formed by the Southern Alps.
Practical Info
The town of Tekapo, at the center of the Mackenzie Basin, is 2 hours and 45 minutes from Christchurch and 3 hours from Queenstown. The drive on Route 8 connecting the two towns is one of the best in New Zealand, and you can break up the drive by staying in Twizel—enjoying the stargazing at night.
Address: Twizel, New Zealand
From $ 110