THE TOP NEW ZEALAND TRAVEL EXPERIENCES

Our trip to New Zealand was the most action-packed adventure we’ve experienced so far. With so many outdoor activities and adrenaline rushes, it’s hard to pick our favourites—but after six months exploring this beautiful country, a few experiences definitely stand out.

Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, nature lover, or just looking for iconic Kiwi experiences, here are our top New Zealand travel recommendations for your adventure.

1. EXPLORE THE NEW ZEALAND GREAT WALKS

New Zealand has a reputation for being an active country, which I credit to their amazing outdoor experiences such as the Great Walks. These well-maintained tracks are the perfect, inexpensive way to see the beautiful and diverse countryside offered here.

North Island

• Tongariro Northern Circuit: Hike volcanic and geothermal terrain, including the famous Mt. Ngauruhoe (Mt. Doom) from Lord of the Rings. The views from the summit on the Tongariro Alpine Crossing are simply unforgettable.

• Lake Waikaremoana Great Walk: A serene trek through lush forest and along pristine lakeshores.

Do the views get better than the top of Mt. Nguauruhoe (Mt. Doom!) on the Tongariro Alpine Crossing?

South Island

• Abel Tasman Coastal Track: Perfect for beach lovers, this trail offers clear waters, sandy beaches, and gorgeous campsite spots along its rugged coastline.

• Kepler Track: Misty alpine vistas and a mountain-top hut await after a gradual forest ascent.

• Other options include the Heaphy, Routeburn, and Milford Tracks, with Stewart Island’s Rakiura Track often overlooked.

Our favourites were the Abel Tasman Coastal Track, Tongariro Northern Circuit, and a day hike on the Kepler Track. If we went back, we’d definitely add the Milford Track.

Beyond hiking, New Zealand has a ton of iconic tourist experiences worth trying…

2. TAKE THE PLUNGE WITH NEW ZEALAND'S BUNGY JUMPS

New Zealand is the home of commercial bungy jumping, and it’s an experience not to be missed.

• Kawarau Bridge, Queenstown: The classic first jump for thrill-seekers.

• Nevis Bungy & Swing: Take it up a notch at 134 meters for the ultimate adrenaline rush.

Making our first bungy jump!

3. VISIT HOBBITON: A SLICE OF MIDDLE-EARTH

No New Zealand trip would be complete without visiting Hobbiton. Home to the Shire in the Lord of the Rings films, New Zealand has come to represent the trilogy, and having a beer at the Green Dragon is an item worthy of any bucket list.

Any LotR and Hobbit fan needs to visit Hobbiton!

4. ZORBING IN ROTORUA

Don't miss zorbing! I never expected to enjoy the experience of being thrown down a hill in the equivalent of a hamster wheel, but I had so much fun being tossed around in the watery ball I would definitely recommend this tourist attraction to anyone near Rotorua.

Bonus: go with a friend for double the laughter and thrill!

5. CRUISE MILFORD AND DOUBTFUL SOUNDS

Near Queenstown, take a cruise to see the Unesco World Heritage Site, Milford Sound. Jaw dropping in its beauty, you will cruise through fjordland, as beautiful in rain as it is in sunshine.

If you are looking to go a bit off the beaten path, look into taking an overnight cruise of Doubtful Sound. Like Milford's younger lesser known sibling, Doubtful Sound has overnight cruises that allow the brave to swim, or else kayak, the frigid waters.

There is a reason the Milford Sound fjordland is a Unesco World Heritage Site!

6. SWIM WITH SEALS IN KAIKOURA

Kaikoura offers one of the best marine encounters in New Zealand. Play with curious and playful seals in the water (who are much more agile underwater than on land!)

Listed as one of the best marine encounters by Lonely Planet, it is an incredible experience that should not be missed.

These adorable seals are so much less sluggish when you see what they can do under the water!

7. STARGAZE AT LAKE TEKAPO EARTH AND SKY OBSERVATORY

And for the relaxed traveller, try stargazing on a clear night at the Lake Tekapo Earth and Sky observatory.

If you're from the northern hemisphere, you'll appreciate an almost completely new set of constellations using amazing telescopes, including the famous Southern Cross. And, if you share the stars with the South, you'll still appreciate the unique darkness that is offered in this dark sky reserve.

This photo was taken in complete darkness at the Earth and Sky Observatory in Tekapo!

New Zealand is an extraordinary country, rich in adventure, nature, and iconic experiences. These seven highlights barely scratch the surface—but they represent the best of both adrenaline-filled and tranquil moments.

Agree or disagree with our picks? Share your favourite New Zealand experiences in the comments below!

For the full itinerary head to our post: New Zealand In 6 Weeks: The Ultimate Itinerary!