New Zealand, made up of two islands, is the breathtaking site of Peter Jackson’s Lord of the Rings film series. It is easy to get around and travel on both islands – and travel options range from sites and activities related to Maori culture to adventure and world-class culinary experiences.
Must See
Milford Sound
This fiord (long, narrow inlet with steep sides or cliffs, and created by a glacier) is known for its towering Mitre Peak, rainforests and falls. This fiord is also home to fur seal colonies, penguins and dolphins. Boat tours are a popular way to explore the area.
Rotorua
Located on the North Island, this town is renowned for its geothermal activity and Maori culture. Check out the bubbling mud pools and a massive geyser in Te Puia’s Whakarewarewa valley. This town is also home to a living Maori village and the New Zealand Maori Arts and Crafts Institute.
Auckland
Make sure to visit Auckland in the north, which features the iconic Sky Tower; Auckland Domain, the city’s oldest park; and the seaside promenade of Mission Bay Beach.
Must Do
Jump In
New Zealand is famous for extreme adventures. There are various options available for every kind of adventurer, including: skydiving in Wanaka or the Bay of Plenty; bungy jumping at the top of Nevis; jetboating near the thundering Huka falls; rafting in the Rotorua; caving in the Waitomo Caves; zip lining on Waiheke Island; or off-roading through the back roads and tracks.
Sip and Savour
There are several options for wine tasting in New Zealand. Marlborough is the largest wine-producing region and is famous for its Sauvignon Blanc. There is also Hawke’s Bay’s Chardonnay, Auckland’s Bordeaux variety, Waiheke Island’s specialty reds, and Wairarapa or Central Otago’s Pinot Noir. Take advantage of the wine offerings in the various regions and cities, and also experience the sites as each of the wine regions in New Zealand is known for its breathtaking geography.
Middle Earth
Take a tour through New Zealand for an alternative adventure to visit all the sites and locations that were the settings of Lord of the Rings. Check out the various towns, take a scenic flight over the ominous Mt. Doom, or visit Hobbiton and crawl into your own hobbit hole in the lush farmland of the Waitomo region.
When To Go
It’s generally a good time to visit New Zealand any time of the year.
