New Zealand’s location and climate makes it an ideal place for wine production. The country’s reputation in the viticulture industry draws visitors from across the globe. There are many wine tasting tours and vineyards worth exploring. Some of the most popular stopovers include Matakana, Waiheke Island, Hawke’s Bay, Martinborough, and the Otago region.
This is the place which cemented bungy jumping’s place as New Zealand’s adrenaline-inducing rite of passage. In 1988, A.J. Hackett and Henry van Asch launched the world’s first commercial bungy jumping experience at the iconic Kawarau Bridge. These days, the 43-metre (141-foot) drop continues to be a favourite among the most adventurous Queenstown visitors.
Aoraki/Mount Cook attracts ski bunnies from the world over, and it’s also a fantastic spot to do a bit of star-gazing. Light pollution is minimal around the Mackenzie Region, making it an ideal location for those who truly want to relish New Zealand’s dark skies. If you haven’t seen the Southern Cross constellation before, this is the place to do it.
Middle Earth exists beyond Tolkien fans’ imaginations. The Hobbiton movie set resides less than an hour’s drive from Auckland. With tours operating on a daily basis, this is the perfect day trip destination. Cool places you’ll get to see on your visit include the Green Dragon Inn, various Hobbit Holes, the Mill, and the paths to The Shire.
The Waitomo Caves are popular with abseilers, hikers and those who are fascinated by its remarkable rock formations. Regular boat tours will introduce you to its limestone walls which, in the darkest places, are beautifully illuminated by glow worms.
You may already know that New Zealand is the very first place to see the sunrise. Well, Gisborne gets the glory of being the place to catch that first glimpse of sun coming up. The East Cape Lighthouse, which is a couple of hours’ drive from Gisborne, is New Zealand’s easternmost point, and where you’ll get a front-seat view of the rising sun. Truth be told, the early-bird trip and its ensuing hike will be worth it for this once in a lifetime experience.
