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Top 10 Iconic Experiences in New Zealand

Kia Ora! New Zealand is a dream destination packing a huge punch into a small space with magnificent mountain scenery, cosmopolitan cities, adrenaline-pumping adventures, and a jaw-dropping coastline. Another bonus is the fact that the population on the island is just four million people, which makes it uncrowded and perfect to explore. Here is our list of the Top 10 Iconic Kiwi Experiences:

  1. Immerse Yourself in Maori Culture

The Maori people are the indigenous people of New Zealand and have inhabited the island for more than 1,000 years. Discover the mystic Maori traditions in the cultural heart of New Zealand – Rotorua. Witness the legendary Haka war dance and hear more about the local art, tattoos, performances, legends and way of life.

  1. Taste New Zealand Wine

Sip the world famous Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc and Central Otago Pinot Noir wines. Wander New Zealand’s picturesque vineyards and witness some of the most spectacular landscapes you have ever seen.

  1. Dive Into the Magical World of Hobbits from The Lord Of The Ring Movies

Since the huge global success of The Lord of the Rings movie trilogy, New Zealand has become a synonym for magical Middle-Earth. Experience the green paradise of the iconic Shire where Frodo and Sam started their adventures at the authentic Hobbiton Movie Set in Matamata.

  1. Cruise in Milford Sound

Marvel at dramatic fjords, spectacular waterfalls and majestic mountains on board a traditional small boat cruise. Tours start from either Te Anau or Queenstown with overnight cruises also available on Milford or Doubtful Sound.

  1. Visit a Geothermal Phenomena

Discover the magnificent Pacific Ring of Fire and explore the Rotorua region’s abundant geological legacy of geysers, boiling mud pools, hot springs and stunning volcano craters.

  1. Go for a Hike in the Mountains

Experience New Zealand’s breathtaking natural landscapes on foot or by bike. Enjoy stunning panoramic views, majestic mountains and clear blue waters. Don’t miss the unspoiled wilderness of Mount Aspiring National Park, accessible from Wanaka. Another popular choice is iconic Mount Cook, also known as Aoraki, New Zealand’s highest mountain, which Sir Edmund Hillary climbed shortly before conquering majestic Mount Everest.

  1. Discover the Ice Age Wonderland

Explore the stunning West Coast of New Zealand and marvel at the region’s rainforests, wild rivers and spectacular glaciers. Top sights are the magnificent Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers, which are also some of the easiest to visit in the world.

  1. Kayak the Bay of Islands

Explore the amazing marine environment of Paihia and the legendary 144 beautiful islands of the Bay of Islands. Play with dolphins, go kayaking or simply enjoy a relaxing day on the golden beaches. Don’t forget the historical landmark of the Waitangi Treaty Grounds.

  1. Explore the Amazing Wildlife

Visit the whale-watching capital of New Zealand – Kaikoura – and witness these incredible ocean animals all year round. Humpbacks pass by in the winter, orcas in the summer, while sperm whales can be spotted throughout the year. Make sure you taste the local crayfish dish from one of the many traditional restaurants. Another not-to-miss experience is the magical Waitomo caves, where you can marvel at the thousands of bioluminescent glow-worms that live there. It’s truly unforgettable!

  1. Adrenaline Rush In Queenstown

Queenstown is well known for its adrenaline adventures such as fast jet boat rides, river rafting, skiing, biking and even bungee jumping. Apart from those activities, the region also offers something for lovers of the so-called ‘slow tourism’ – you can go wine-tasting, spend a day at the spa or enjoy alfresco dining.

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