Chatham Islands
Chatham Islands Archipelago
Remote and pristine destination offering unique natural landscapes and indigenous Moriori culture.
Logistics: Accessible via a short flight from mainland New Zealand.
Updated: 2025-09
Highlights
New Zealand — Top 10 Highlights
Explore the essentials of New Zealand with precise pins and a quick-scan overview—clean, fast, no popups.
Why go — quick legend
- Milford Sound — Discover breathtaking landscapes and waterfalls in New Ze…
- Tongariro National Park — Experience stunning volcanic landscapes and rich Maori he…
- Bay of Islands — Indulge in world-class fishing and scenic maritime advent…
- Te Papa Tongarewa — Explore New Zealand's history through its bicultural appr…
- Hobbiton Movie Set — Step into the magical world of Tolkien on a guided movie …
- Waitomo Glowworm Caves — Experience an enchanting underground glowworm display via…
- Aoraki / Mount Cook — Marvel at New Zealand's tallest peak and challenge your m…
- Rotorua Geothermal Area — Explore extraordinary geothermal features and witness gey…
- Abel Tasman National Park — Enjoy coastal hiking and gorgeous beaches in New Zealand'…
- Franz Josef Glacier — Witness a unique temperate maritime glacier at close prox…
Tip: Open individual spots in Google Maps from the table below.
Legend
Why go — quick legend
- Milford Sound — Discover breathtaking landscapes and waterfalls in New Ze…
- Tongariro National Park — Experience stunning volcanic landscapes and rich Maori he…
- Bay of Islands — Indulge in world-class fishing and scenic maritime advent…
- Te Papa Tongarewa — Explore New Zealand's history through its bicultural appr…
- Hobbiton Movie Set — Step into the magical world of Tolkien on a guided movie …
- Waitomo Glowworm Caves — Experience an enchanting underground glowworm display via…
- Aoraki / Mount Cook — Marvel at New Zealand's tallest peak and challenge your m…
- Rotorua Geothermal Area — Explore extraordinary geothermal features and witness gey…
- Abel Tasman National Park — Enjoy coastal hiking and gorgeous beaches in New Zealand'…
- Franz Josef Glacier — Witness a unique temperate maritime glacier at close prox…
New Zealand — Top 10 Highlights (Overview)
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| # / Name | Why go | Significance | Since | Category |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Southland | Discover breathtaking landscapes and waterfalls in New Zealand's top travel destination. | Rudyard Kipling lauded it as the eighth Wonder of the World. | — (natural) | Outdoor |
Ruapehu District · Manawatū-Whanganui | Experience stunning volcanic landscapes and rich Maori heritage. | First national park in New Zealand and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. | 1887 | Cultural Heritage |
Bay of Islands-Whangaroa Community · Northland | Indulge in world-class fishing and scenic maritime adventures. | Renowned internationally since Zane Grey's 1930s big-game fishing tales. | — (natural) | Beach |
Wellington · Wellington | Explore New Zealand's history through its bicultural approach to storytelling. | One of the world's most-visited museums, representing cultural treasures. | 1998 | Museum |
Matamata Piako District · Waikato | Step into the magical world of Tolkien on a guided movie set tour. | Iconic filming location for The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit trilogies. | 2002 | Outdoor |
Waitomo District · Waikato | Experience an enchanting underground glowworm display via guided boat tours. | Home to Arachnocampa luminosa, the caves have the world's most visited glowworm display. | 1887 | Outdoor |
Mackenzie District · Canterbury | Marvel at New Zealand's tallest peak and challenge your mountaineering skills. | A significant landmark within the Southern Alps, important for both natural spectacle and mountaineering history. | — (natural) | Outdoor |
Ngongotahā · Bay of Plenty | Explore extraordinary geothermal features and witness geysers and hot mud pools. | Originally formed from volcanic activity, it's a vibrant cultural and geothermal hotspot. | — (natural) | Outdoor |
Tasman District · Tasman | Enjoy coastal hiking and gorgeous beaches in New Zealand's smallest national park. | Notable for its rich biodiversity and the renowned Abel Tasman Coast Track. | 1942 | Beach |
Westland District · West Coast | Witness a unique temperate maritime glacier at close proximity to sea level. | A prominent natural wonder descending from the Southern Alps, known for accessibility and stunning views. | — (natural) | Outdoor |
“Since” dates reflect earliest public access (opening/consecration/founding) or UNESCO/natural markers. Natural sites show “— (natural)”.
Explore by province
Click a city to open its highlights page. Provinces appear only when at least one city exists.
Hidden gems · Insider picks
Three lesser-known spots worth a detour—remote, scenic, or just special
Okarito
West Coast, South Island
Home to the rare white heron and one of New Zealand's largest unmodified wetlands, perfect for nature enthusiasts.
Logistics: Easily reached by car from Franz Josef Glacier, approximately a 30-minute drive.
Updated: 2025-09
Napier Art Deco
Hawke's Bay
Unrivaled concentration of Art Deco architecture, resulting from the rebuild after the 1931 earthquake.
Logistics: Regular flights and bus services are available from major New Zealand cities.
Updated: 2025-09
When to go
North IslandApr–Jun, Sep–Nov: Enjoy mild weather and fewer crowds, ideal for exploring cities and hiking.
South IslandDec–Feb: Peak summer with warm temperatures perfect for outdoor adventures and exploring the coast.
FiordlandMar–May: Crisp air and stunning autumn foliage without the summer tourist rush.
Southern AlpsJul–Sep: Best time for winter sports with fresh snow and vibrant ski resorts.
East CoastOct–Dec: Pleasant spring weather for coastal activities, with blooming landscapes and fewer visitors.
Weather varies by region—always check local forecasts.
Safety: practical snapshot
Overall call
New Zealand is generally safe, but stay vigilant.
- Watch for changing weather conditions.
- Beware of strong ocean currents.
- Take care on hiking trails.
- Secure belongings against petty theft.
- Drive cautiously on winding roads.
How to travel it safely
- Keep valuables out of sight in vehicles.
- Check weather forecasts before outdoor activities.
- Use seatbelts; drive on the left.
- Stay informed about local safety guidelines.
- Wear appropriate gear for outdoor adventures.
- Plan and notify someone about your hiking route.
- Be mindful of cultural sensitivities.
Emergency: In emergencies, call New Zealand's 111.
Guidance may change; verify current information.