New Zealand welcomed 528,219 tourists in December 2019 alone. A remote island located southeast of Australia, New Zealand is home to a unique culture and fun activities you can find anywhere else. 

Are you thinking of traveling to New Zealand this year? If so, keep these activities in mind! With this list of the 10 best things to do on vacation in New Zealand, you can make the most of your time.

Get ready for an adventure!

1. Bike a Bit

Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie or love a slow cycle, New Zealand is a great place for a soothing bike ride. You can even combine bike riding with a wine tasting during your vacation in New Zealand. 

There’s also the Nga Haerenga, a cycle trail that combined 19 major trails to create a 2,300 km circuit. Try it out!

2. Experience the Culture

Vacations with family can always benefit from a little local culture. Learn more about the Maoris and their traditions of tribal singing, dancing, warrior training, and fire poi during your visit. 

3. Paddle Around

If you’re not much of a biker, try spending your vacation in New Zealand paddling instead. You can take in the jaw-dropping scenery from your kayak as you enjoy the calm waters. 

4. Explore the Aquarium

The largest city in New Zealand is Auckland with 1,241,800 people. There, you’ll find Kelly Tarlton’s Antarctic Encounter and Underwater World. The marine experience is home to sub-Antarctic penguins and an amazing curved aquarium tunnel you won’t want to miss.

These Kelly Tarltons deals can help you save money on traveling and still experience the wildlife in New Zealand.

5. Tramp a Bit

Instead of trekking, New Zealanders go tramping.

Explore the landscape, snow-capped peaks, lakes, and craters on foot. Plan a day to explore the rugged mountain peaks during a day trip, too!

6. Visit Middle Earth

New Zealand is home to 44 Hobbit holes, which you might recognize from the Lord of the Rings films. You can explore JRR Tolkien’s Middle Earth yourself in the rolling hills of Matamata.

7. Drive Along the Mountainside

Thinking about renting a campervan? Take a look out your window to take in the peaks, fiords, glaciers, and more! 

Try driving the Te Anau to Milford Sound Drive rout straight for the Fiordland National Park.

8. Visit Milford Sound

Step into the wilderness! Milford Sound is full of dramatic fiords, waterfalls, and snow-capped peaks. It’s also a great spot for a cruise or kayak. Enjoy the water and this natural wonder during your vacation in New Zealand.

9. Climb to the Top

Sir Edmund Hilary cut his teeth when trying to conquer Mount Everest. You can visit that same spot on Mount Cook Aoraki, or “cloud piercer” yourself, too!

10. Take a Sip

For a less wild adventure, visit New Zealand’s wine-growing areas. Sit back with a glass of Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc or walk the Wine Trail during your trip.

A Trip to Remember: 10 Ideas for Your Vacation in New Zealand

Pack your vacation in New Zealand with plenty of family fun. These 10 ideas will ensure you make the most of your trip. 

Searching for more vacation ideas? Explore the Destinations section today!