Holidaying In New Zealand? Here Are The Top Places To Visit

Aotearoa New Zealand is an archipelago of dramatic landscapes, ancient forests, geothermal marvels and deeply rooted Māori culture. Whether you are chasing mountains, beaches, vineyards or cosmopolitan cities, this island nation offers an extraordinary variety of experiences. This guide aims to be the ultimate resource for planning a holiday in New Zealand. It explores the top places to visit across both the North and South Islands, highlighting unique attractions, cultural stories, outdoor adventures and practical travel tips. Each section showcases why these destinations matter, from the natural wonders of Milford Sound and the Abel Tasman coast to urban gems like Auckland and Wellington. You will also find insights into Māori legends and customs, ecological protection, food and wine culture, and advice on transportation and weather. By the end of this book you will be prepared to craft your own unforgettable journey through one of the most beautiful countries on earth.

Understanding New Zealand’s Geography and Culture

Islands & Regions

New Zealand consists of two major islands: the North Island (Te Ika‑a‑Māui) and the South Island (Te Wai‑pounamu). The North Island is more populous, home to the country’s largest city, Auckland, and the capital, Wellington. It boasts geothermal activity, subtropical beaches and rich Māori heritage. The South Island is known for towering alpine peaks, fiords carved by glaciers, wide open plains and some of the world’s darkest skies. Stewart Island/Rakiura, the third largest island, lies south of the mainland and retains much of its original wilderness.

New Zealand is divided into regions such as Northland, Auckland, Waikato, Bay of Plenty, Hawke’s Bay, Taranaki, Wellington, Tasman, Marlborough, Canterbury, West Coast, Otago, and Southland. Each region has its own climate, culture and attractions.

Māori Culture and Language

Māori are the indigenous Polynesian people of New Zealand. Their language and culture permeate daily life. Many place names reflect Māori stories and connections to the land, such as Aotearoa (commonly translated as “land of the long white cloud”). Māori tourism experiences allow visitors to learn about traditional protocols (tikanga), carving and weaving, haka (war dance) and kai (food). When visiting sacred sites, respect local customs; some areas may require the removal of shoes or silence.

Sustainability & Responsible Travel

New Zealand prides itself on protecting its natural heritage. National parks and marine reserves safeguard unique flora and fauna, while initiatives such as Predator Free 2050 aim to eradicate invasive species. As a visitor, follow the Tiaki Promise, a tourism initiative encouraging travellers to care for people, place and culture. Leave no trace, stick to marked trails, dispose of waste properly and avoid disturbing wildlife. Many attractions have capacity limits or require advance bookings; plan ahead and consider visiting in shoulder seasons to reduce pressure on fragile environments.

North Island Highlights

Bay of Islands & Northland

The Bay of Islands comprises 144 islands on the subtropical Northland coast. It is world‑renowned for big‑game fishing and sailing; author Zane Grey publicised it in the 1930s, putting it on the international map. Today you can charter a yacht, take a dolphin‑watching cruise or learn to paddle a waka (Māori canoe). The bay’s historic settlements—Paihia, Russell and Waitangi—offer insight into early Māori–European interactions.

Waitangi Treaty Grounds

Waitangi, just north of Paihia, is one of New Zealand’s most significant historic sites. It is where the Declaration of Independence was signed in 1835 and where Māori chiefs and the British Crown first signed the Treaty of Waitangi on 6 February 1840. The Treaty House (home of British Resident James Busby) was restored and the grounds were opened to the public in 1934. A carved meeting house, Te Whare Rūnanga, was built for the centennial in 1940, and modern museums opened in 2015 and 2020 to interpret the treaty story. The government invested NZ$10.2 million in upgrades in 2024. Visiting the grounds offers a powerful education on the founding document and bicultural partnership.

Russell (Kororāreka)

The nearby town of Russell, formerly Kororāreka, was New Zealand’s first European settlement. In 1840 Governor William Hobson read proclamations at Christ Church here, but he refused to make it the capital because of its reputation as a lawless whaling port. Instead the capital was briefly established at Okiato (renamed Russell) before moving to Auckland. Kororāreka continued as a resupply port for whaling and sealing ships. Today Russell charms visitors with heritage buildings, waterfront cafés and sunset cruises across the bay.

Cape Reinga & Ninety Mile Beach

At the northern tip of the North Island, Cape Reinga is a windswept headland where the Tasman Sea meets the Pacific Ocean. According to Māori mythology, it is the leaping‑off place where spirits depart to their homeland. The cape lies more than 100 kilometres from the nearest town, yet attracts over 500,000 visitors annually; the sealed road now extends all the way to the lighthouse. Look for the ancient pohutukawa tree clinging to the cliff—its roots form the spirit path. South of the cape, Ninety Mile Beach is actually 88 kilometres long; it doubles as a highway and features enormous sand dunes at Te Paki where you can sandboard.

Auckland and Surrounds

Auckland City

Auckland is New Zealand’s largest metropolis. Spread across a narrow isthmus between the Tasman Sea’s Manukau Harbour and the Pacific Ocean’s Waitematā Harbour, it is one of the few cities with harbours on two major bodies of water. The region sits on the Auckland Volcanic Field, containing 53 vents; many have formed distinctive cones and craters. Major attractions include the Auckland War Memorial Museum, the Museum of Transport and Technology, the Auckland Art Gallery and the Sky Tower—an observation and communications tower with panoramic views.

Auckland is consistently ranked among the world’s most liveable cities. It is vibrant and multicultural, with neighbourhoods like Ponsonby, Parnell and Newmarket offering cafés, boutiques and nightlife. Getting around is easiest by car because suburbs are sprawling; locals are known for being friendly and the city has a relatively low crime rate. Day‑trips from Auckland include wine tasting on Waiheke Island, hiking in the Waitākere Ranges, and exploring the volcanic landscapes of Rangitoto and Motutapu islands.

Coromandel Peninsula and Cathedral Cove

Just east of Auckland, the Coromandel Peninsula is prized for its golden beaches, lush forests and laid‑back towns. Once a centre for gold mining and kauri logging, its economy now focuses on tourism. Visitors flock to Hot Water Beach, where you can dig your own thermal spa in the sand at low tide, and to Cathedral Cove, an iconic limestone arch over a secluded beach. The Te Whanganui‑o‑Hei (Cathedral Cove) Marine Reserve covers 840 hectares and attracts about 150,000 visitors per year. The track from Hahei Beach was closed due to cyclone damage in 2023, but the Mautohe Track reopened in December 2024, allowing access from a viewpoint. Recovering dolphin and whale populations are increasingly spotted off the Coromandel coast.

Waikato: Waitomo Caves and Hobbiton

Waitomo Glowworm Caves

Under rolling farmland south of Hamilton lies a network of limestone caves lit by thousands of glowworms. Access to the Waitomo Glowworm Cave is by guided tour; visitors descend through multiple levels and end with a boat ride in the Glowworm Grotto where the only light comes from bioluminescent larvae. The caves draw around half a million tourists each year and visitor numbers have returned to pre‑pandemic levels. Combine your trip with nearby adventure caving (black‑water rafting) or stroll through the Ruakuri Scenic Reserve.

Hobbiton Movie Set (Matamata)

The Hobbiton Movie Set near Matamata brings Tolkien’s Shire to life. Guided tours of the 5.5‑hectare site began in 2002 and last around two hours. You’ll wander past 44 hobbit holes (some fully furnished), Bagshot Row, the Party Tree and Bilbo’s Bag End; new hobbit holes opened in December 2023. The tour concludes at the Green Dragon Inn for a drink, and there’s a café and gift shop at the Shire’s Rest. Tours often sell out, so book in advance.

Rotorua & Bay of Plenty

Rotorua sits in a volcanic caldera and is famous for its geothermal features and Māori cultural experiences. Attractions include Kuirau Park, Government Gardens and Sulphur Point, where you can see boiling mud pools and steaming lakes; Te Puia, home of the Pōhutu Geyser; Tikitere (Hell’s Gate), with a mud spa; the Buried Village archaeological site; Lake Rotomahana; the Waimangu Volcanic Valley; and Waikite Valley Thermal Pools. Rotorua is also a centre for Māori tourism, offering marae visits, haka performances and traditional hangi feasts. The city’s sulphurous smell comes from natural gas deposits at Sulphur Point.

On the Bay of Plenty coast, Mount Maunganui (Mauao) is a 232‑metre volcanic dome considered sacred by local iwi. It’s a popular spot for scenic walks, jogging, parasailing and hang gliding. The adjoining resort town of Tauranga offers harbour cruises, surf beaches and a relaxed café culture.

Central Plateau: Taupō and Tongariro

Lake Taupō

Lake Taupō, New Zealand’s largest lake, fills a caldera created by a super‑eruption 26,500 years ago. Tourism is central to the local economy and peaks in summer; the region enjoys a temperate climate with average maximum temperatures of 23 °C in January and 13 °C in July. Popular activities include fishing for trout, kayaking to the 10‑metre high Māori rock carvings at Mine Bay, mountain biking, sailing and skydiving. Taupō hosts the annual Lake Taupō Cycle Challenge and Ironman New Zealand triathlon. The local Ngāti Tūwharetoa iwi own the lake bed but allow public access.

Tongariro National Park

Established in 1887 and recognised as a dual UNESCO World Heritage Site for both natural and cultural values, Tongariro National Park was nominated for its chain of volcanoes and unique natural phenomena. The park covers 786 square kilometres and contains three active volcanoes—Ruapehu, Ngauruhoe and Tongariro. Ecosystems range from rainforest at lower elevations to alpine herbfields near the summits. The Tongariro Alpine Crossing is often described as one of the world’s best single‑day hikes; it traverses volcanic craters, emerald lakes and steam vents. Always check weather and volcanic activity alerts before setting out, and be prepared with proper footwear and layers.

Hawke’s Bay and East Coast

Napier Art Deco City

In 1931 a devastating earthquake levelled Napier. The city rebuilt during the Art Deco and Spanish Mission era, resulting in striking architecture that is now one of its major tourist draws. Landmarks include the MTG Hawke’s Bay museum, the National Aquarium, historic Napier Prison and the Pania of the Reef statue. The annual Art Deco Festival celebrates the architecture with vintage cars, jazz and period costumes, attracting tens of thousands of visitors. Napier serves as a gateway to Hawke’s Bay’s vineyards and to the Cape Kidnappers gannet colony. Stroll along Marine Parade, a tree‑lined boulevard featuring fountains, gardens and spas.

Wellington and Wairarapa

Wellington, situated at the southern tip of the North Island between Cook Strait and the Remutaka Range, is New Zealand’s capital city. It is the world’s southernmost capital and has a temperate maritime climate. Wellington is renowned for its wind; it is the windiest city in the world by average speede. Since 1865 it has housed the nation’s government and parliament, and its service‑based economy emphasises finance, government and film. The city is also known as New Zealand’s cultural capital, with creative precincts like Cuba Street and Newtown. Visitors enjoy Te Papa museum, Zealandia eco‑sanctuary, the historic cable car, craft breweries and a thriving coffee scene. Across Cook Strait lies the Wairarapa wine region, accessible via train through the Rimutaka Tunnel.

South Island Highlights

Nelson and Tasman

The top of the South Island is bathed in sunshine and surrounded by national parks. Nelson is nicknamed “Sunny Nelson” because it records over 2,400 hours of sunshine annually. The city has a vibrant arts scene; locals and visitors browse the weekly Nelson Saturday Market and specialty shops like Jens Hansen Goldsmiths where the One Ring from The Lord of the Rings was crafted. The region acts as a gateway to Abel Tasman, Kahurangi and Nelson Lakes National Parks, making it a hub for ecotourism and adventure tourism. Nearby cave systems on Takaka Hill and in the Arthur Range attract caving enthusiasts.

Abel Tasman National Park

On the Tasman Bay coast, Abel Tasman National Park is New Zealand’s smallest national park but one of its most popular. Described as a summer paradise, it features golden beaches, turquoise bays and lush native bush. The Abel Tasman Coast Track is one of New Zealand’s ten Great Walks; you can hike sections or explore by kayak or water taxi. Notable beaches include Anchorage, Bark Bay and Awaroa, perfect for swimming and picnics. Seals, dolphins and native birds are frequently spotted, and the mild climate makes it ideal for year‑round visits.

Marlborough and Kaikōura

Marlborough Wine Region

Blenheim, the largest town in Marlborough, sits in one of New Zealand’s sunniest regions. The surrounding vineyards produce more than 70 percent of the country’s wine, with Sauvignon Blanc as the star. Hundreds of thousands of visitors tour cellar doors, cycle between vineyards and attend the Marlborough Wine & Food Festival. Events like the Classic Fighters airshow and a thriving gourmet food scene add to the appeal. The warm, dry summers and cool winters produce crisp wines and attract retirees and holidaymakers.

Kaikōura

On the east coast north of Christchurch, Kaikōura sits where an undersea canyon creates upwelling currents that support abundant marine life. In 1985 local Māori mortgaged their homes to start a whale‑watching business; 3,000 tourists took tours in the first year. By the early 21st century more than 100,000 people per year were joining whale‑watching trips and swimming with dolphins. Humpback, sperm and blue whales feed in the deep waters, while fur seals laze on the rocks. Kaikōura still has a crayfish industry and offers scenic walks such as the Mount Fyffe track.

Christchurch and Canterbury

Christchurch, the South Island’s largest city, has reinvented itself after the 2010–2011 earthquakes. Gardens, heritage buildings, street art and earthquake memorials sit side by side. Christchurch is a gateway for international tourists exploring the South Island’s attractions—including Aoraki/Mount Cook, Queenstown, the West Coast and Kaikōura. Tourism contributes 3.7 percent to the city’s GDP (up from 2.1 percent in 2000). The International Antarctic Centre in Christchurch functions as a logistics hub and museum for Antarctic programmes. Ride a punt along the Avon River, wander the Botanic Gardens, or take the gondola up the Port Hills for panoramic views.

West Coast: Glacier Country and Pancake Rocks

Pancake Rocks and Blowholes (Punakaiki)

On the coast of Paparoa National Park, the Pancake Rocks are stacks of limestone sculpted into layers resembling pancakes. Sea swells surge through blowholes, sending water spouts high into the air. State Highway 6 is the only through‑road on the West Coast, and around 450,000 visitors stop at Punakaiki each year to walk the short track and view the rocks. The formations may be New Zealand’s most photographed rocks. Walkways wind through the karst landscape; some sections are wheelchair‑accessible, while others climb up and down stairs. Nearby you can explore the Pororari River Track, Truman Track and Paparoa Track, one of the Great Walks.

Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers

Two of the world’s most accessible glaciers descend from the Southern Alps towards lush rainforest in Westland Tai Poutini National Park. Fox and Franz Josef glaciers have attracted tourists for over a century. National Geographic famously described Franz Josef Glacier as plunging from a snowfield more than 8,000 feet above sea level down to subtropical bush just 700 feet above sea level. Visitor numbers grew from 250,000 in 2008 to 700,000 in 2017; after a 2012 collapse at the terminal face, access is now mainly by helicopter, and valley walks end at viewing platforms. Guides provide crampons and ice axes for heli‑hikes. Fox Glacier has a similar history: early tourism began in the 1920s, the first hotel opened in 1928, and guiding and roads improved over time. Heavy rain in 2019 caused a landslide that closed the valley road; access is now by helicopter. The government invested NZ$3.9 million to extend cycleways and reopen walking tracks in the area.

Southern Alps: Aoraki/Mount Cook and Lake Tekapo

Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park

Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park covers 722 square kilometres along the Southern Alps and contains nearly all of New Zealand’s peaks over 3,000 metres. Its highest mountain, Aoraki/Mount Cook, rises to 3,724 metres. Glaciers cover roughly 40 percent of the park; the Tasman Glacier—New Zealand’s longest—is a highlight, along with the Hooker, Murchison and Mueller glaciers. Glacier lakes such as Tasman Lake and Hooker Lake offer scenic boat tours where icebergs drift past. The climate is extreme: temperatures in Mount Cook Village range from –13 °C to 32 °C and rainfall can exceed 1,447 millimetres in a single month. Snow falls around 21 days per yeare. Climbing Aoraki is technical; guided alpine walks and scenic flights allow non‑climbers to appreciate the peaks.

Lake Tekapo (Takapō)

Lake Tekapo is famed for its turquoise water and dark skies. In 2012 the surrounding area was designated the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve, the largest in the southern hemisphere at 4,367 square kilometres. With almost no light pollution, it is a prime spot for stargazing and astrophotography. The Church of the Good Shepherd, built in 1935, sits on the lake shore and is one of New Zealand’s most photographed churches. In spring (November–December), lupins bloom along the lake edges in shades of purple, pink and yellow. The Roundhill Ski Area nearby caters to beginners and boasts the world’s longest and steepest rope tow for advanced skiers.

Central Otago: Wānaka and Queenstown

Lake Wānaka and Wānaka Town

Lake Wānaka is a glacial lake set among mountains and is a year‑round adventure playground. In summer visitors kayak, sail, fish and swim. The surrounding ranges offer alpine and cross‑country skiing, tramping, mountain biking, mountaineering, rock climbing and paragliding. The Lake Wanaka Preservation Act established the Guardians of Lake Wānaka to protect the lake’s unmodified shoreline and advise on conservation. The town itself has cafés, craft breweries and a weekly farmers’ market; iconic spots include the Wanaka Tree (a willow growing in the lake) and Rippon Vineyard.

Queenstown

Queenstown sits on Lake Wakatipu and is framed by the Remarkables Range. It is often described as the adventure capital of New Zealand. The official tourism website describes the town as nestled among spectacular alpine landscapes, with a vibrant community that welcomes visitors as temporary locals, and it offers year‑round adventure, world‑class food and wine. Adrenaline activities include bungy jumping, jet boating, skydiving, mountain biking and winter skiing at nearby Coronet Peak and The Remarkables. Foodies can sample Central Otago wines, dine at lakefront restaurants or ride the gondola to Skyline Queenstown for panoramic views and luge rides.

Fiordland: Milford Sound and Surrounds

Milford Sound/Piopiotahi is perhaps New Zealand’s most famous natural attraction. Rudyard Kipling dubbed it the Eighth Wonder of the World. The fiord stretches 15 kilometres inland from the Tasman Sea and is lined with sheer cliffs rising more than 1,200 metres. Peaks such as The Elephant and The Lion tower above the water. Milford Sound has two permanent waterfalls—Lady Bowen Falls and Stirling Falls—and experiences some of the highest rainfall in the country (over 6,000 millimetres annually), producing temporary cascades that tumble from the cliffs. Cruises, kayak tours and scenic flights reveal the dramatic scenery. The Milford Road from Te Anau passes through the Homer Tunnel and across avalanche‑prone terrain; allow extra time and check conditions.

Otago Peninsula and Dunedin

Dunedin, founded by Scottish settlers, boasts elegant Victorian and Edwardian architecture and is home to the University of Otago. Key sights include the Dunedin Railway Station, Larnach Castle, Cargill’s Castle ruins, Olveston historic home, Speight’s Brewery and the iconic clocktower at the University. The city’s museums, galleries and cafés radiate student energy. Nearby, the Otago Peninsula offers wildlife encounters: the world’s only mainland breeding colony of northern royal albatrosses at Taiaroa Head, plus little penguins, yellow‑eyed penguins and sea lions. Attractions on the peninsula include Larnach Castle, a restored Armstrong gun, and numerous scenic viewpoints.

Stewart Island/Rakiura

New Zealand’s third main island lies 30 kilometres south of the South Island across Foveaux Strait. Stewart Island/Rakiura retains a small permanent population of around 460 people; over 80 percent of the island forms Rakiura National Park The Māori name Rakiura means “glowing skies,” referencing the aurora australis. The park, established in 2002, covers close to 1,400 square kilometres (about 85 percent of the island). A chain sculpture at the park’s entrance symbolises the Māori myth that the South Island is the canoe of the demigod Māui and Rakiura is the anchor. The island offers one of the best opportunities to see kiwi in the wild due to the absence of stoats and ferrets; some 15,000 southern brown kiwi live here. The Rakiura Track, a three‑day Great Walk, passes through lush forest and along Paterson Inlet. Longer tramps like the Northwest Circuit (125 kilometres) and the Southern Circuit (70 kilometres) reward experienced hikers with remote beaches and hut‑to‑hut adventures.

Practical Tips for Planning Your Holiday

When to Visit

New Zealand’s seasons are opposite those of the northern hemisphere. Summer (December–February) brings warm weather ideal for beaches, water sports and high‑altitude hiking. Autumn (March–May) offers fewer crowds and harvest festivals in wine regions. Winter (June–August) is prime time for skiing in Queenstown, Wānaka, Mt Hutt and Ruapehu; the North Island is milder but wetter. Spring (September–November) features blossom and newborn lambs; alpine areas may still have snow. Shoulder seasons (spring and autumn) provide a balance of good weather and availability.

Getting Around

Distances in New Zealand can be deceiving due to winding roads and mountainous terrain. A rental car or campervan provides flexibility, especially in the South Island where public transport is limited. State Highway 1 runs the length of both islands; other highways branch to coastal towns and national parks. Scenic trains (such as the Northern Explorer, TranzAlpine and Coastal Pacific) and ferries across Cook Strait offer memorable journeys. Domestic flights link major cities and tourist hubs. In towns, cycling and walking are pleasant ways to explore.

Accommodation

You’ll find everything from luxury lodges and boutique hotels to backpacker hostels and DOC (Department of Conservation) huts. Book popular accommodations—especially in Queenstown, Wānaka, Milford Sound and Abel Tasman—well in advance during peak season. Freedom camping is permitted in many areas but subject to local regulations; always use designated dump stations.

Safety and Etiquette

• Weather awareness: Mountain conditions change rapidly. Check forecasts, carry extra clothing and equipment, and tell someone your plans.
• Tide and road conditions: Coastal walks may be impassable at high tide; West Coast roads can be closed by landslides. Snow and ice affect alpine passes in winter.
• Respect for culture: When visiting marae or culturally significant sites, follow guidance from local hosts. Remove shoes when asked and do not photograph restricted areas.
• Biosecurity: To protect fragile ecosystems, clean footwear before entering parks and boats before switching water bodies. Do not transport plants, soil or animals between regions.

Budgeting

New Zealand is not a low‑cost destination, but careful planning can stretch your budget. Use supermarket chains like Countdown or Pak’nSave for groceries; take advantage of free activities such as hiking and swimming. Purchase petrol at discount stations when possible. Many museums have free entry or donation‑based admission. Consider purchasing a DOC campground pass or multi‑day national park hut pass if you plan to tramp extensively.

Finally

New Zealand rewards curious travellers with its rich tapestry of landscapes and cultures. From the volcanic terraces of the North Island to the glaciers and fiords of the south, the country offers endless opportunities for exploration, adventure, relaxation and connection. This guide has covered the top places to visit, from iconic destinations like Milford Sound, Queenstown, Rotorua and Abel Tasman to less‑visited gems like Stewart Island, Napier and the Coromandel. You’ve also learned practical tips for planning, cultural etiquette, and the importance of sustainable travel. Whether you’re planning a once‑in‑a‑lifetime trip or dreaming of future journeys, Aotearoa will inspire you with its beauty and leave you with memories to cherish. Kia ora and safe travels!

References

1. Bay of Islands tourism: Zane Grey’s big‑game fishing publicityen.wikipedia.org.
2. Waitangi Treaty Grounds facts—location, Treaty House, museums and government upgradesen.wikipedia.org.
3. Russell/Kororāreka history and capital relocationen.wikipedia.org.
4. Cape Reinga visitor numbers and the meeting of the Tasman and Pacificen.wikipedia.org.
5. Ninety Mile Beach description and Te Paki dunesen.wikipedia.org.
6. Auckland’s volcanic field, harbours and liveabilityen.wikipedia.org.
7. Auckland travel tips—sprawling suburbs, friendly locals, low crimetravelandleisure.com.
8. Coromandel Peninsula tourism and Hot Water Beach, Cathedral Cove and wildlifeen.wikipedia.org.
9. Cathedral Cove visitor numbers and track closuresen.wikipedia.org.
10. Waitomo Glowworm Cave guided tours and visitor numbersen.wikipedia.org.
11. Hobbiton Movie Set tours and featuresen.wikipedia.org.
12. Rotorua geothermal and cultural attractionsen.wikipedia.orgen.wikipedia.org.
13. Mount Maunganui activities and sacred statusen.wikipedia.org.
14. Lake Taupō tourism, climate and Māori carvingsen.wikipedia.org.
15. Tongariro National Park’s UNESCO status, volcanoes and the Alpine Crossingen.wikipedia.orgen.wikipedia.orgen.wikipedia.org.
16. Napier’s Art Deco architecture and attractionsen.wikipedia.orgen.wikipedia.org.
17. Wellington geography, climate and cultural capital statusen.wikipedia.org.
18. Abel Tasman National Park beaches, Coast Track and wildlifetrip.com.
19. Marlborough climate and wine tourism significanceen.wikipedia.orgen.wikipedia.org.
20. Kaikōura whale‑watching history and popularityen.wikipedia.org.
21. Christchurch tourism contribution and Antarctic connectionen.wikipedia.orgen.wikipedia.org.
22. Franz Josef Glacier accessibility, tourism history and heli‑accessen.wikipedia.org.
23. Fox Glacier history, road closure and government investmenten.wikipedia.org.
24. Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park peaks, glaciers and climate extremesen.wikipedia.orgen.wikipedia.org.
25. Aoraki Dark Sky Reserve, Church of the Good Shepherd and lupinsen.wikipedia.org.
26. Lake Wanaka tourism and conservation measuresen.wikipedia.org.
27. Queenstown tourism description from official websitequeenstownnz.co.nz.
28. Milford Sound facts—length, cliffs, waterfalls and rainfallen.wikipedia.org.
29. Dunedin sights listen.wikipedia.org.
30. Otago Peninsula wildlife, albatross colony and attractionsen.wikipedia.orgen.wikipedia.org.
31. Stewart Island population, national park coverage and meaning of Rakiuraen.wikipedia.orgen.wikipedia.orgen.wikipedia.org.
32. Rakiura National Park area, chain sculpture and Māori mythen.wikipedia.org.
33. Rakiura wildlife (kiwi) and tramping tracksen.wikipedia.orgen.wikipedia.org.
34. Nelson nicknames, sunshine hours and gateway to national parksen.wikipedia.org.
35. Nelson arts scene, markets and popularity as a visitor destinationen.wikipedia.org.
36. Nelson national parks and ecotourism/caving reputationen.wikipedia.org.
37. Pancake Rocks visitor numbers and popularityen.wikipedia.org.
38. Punakaiki walkways accessibilityen.wikipedia.org.