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New Zealand has always been one of my dream destinations – so we finally took the long trip around the globe! And I’m speechless: the islands have an incredible abundance of nature, unique views and special activities to offer. In this article, I will not only tell you about the most beautiful places & sights in New Zealand, but also give you important tips for your own New Zealand round trip!

When is the best time to travel to New Zealand on a road trip?

Many travelers first think of New Zealand during the summer months, which is when New Zealand winters. But in reality, New Zealand is a fantastic year-round destination with incredibly beautiful sights that have their own charm at any time of year. In the north, the weather is subtropical, while in the alpine regions of the South Island it can cool down to -10°C in winter. However, as most of New Zealand is on the coast, temperatures are mild all year round.

We ourselves were in New Zealand in August, at the end of winter, just before the start of spring. The advantage of winter is that there are far fewer tourists, which means that New Zealand’s beautiful sights are often empty and hotel prices are more affordable. In the early morning it was often still chilly, while in the afternoon it quickly warmed up thanks to the intense sunshine, so that I often didn’t even need a jacket. The winter months are also ideal for winter sports enthusiasts, as the Southern Alps on the South Island are covered in fine snow and are perfect for skiing and snowboarding. In addition, the winter months on the South Island are considered drier and are characterized by fewer rainy days than in summer.

The mild spring is also a beautiful time to visit, when New Zealand begins to sprout and bloom. The colorful lupines are a particularly popular photo motif – even though they are actually an invasive species and are not welcomed by the locals.

the sunset behind the mountains at a lake, seen during a road trip in New Zealand
mountain views during a road trip in New Zealand

 How many days should you plan for your New Zealand road trip?

In order to visit both the North and South Island, I recommend planning at least 14 days for a round trip through New Zealand. Due to the long journey, it is also worth planning one to two days “buffer” for the first few days, as the 10-hour time difference (from Europe) is very noticeable at the beginning of the trip due to jet lag!

Is it worth having your own rental car for your trip to New Zealand?

In my opinion, having your own rental car is a MUST in most regions of the country in order to enjoy the best sights and activities in New Zealand. We traveled most of the time in our own car on both the North and South Island. There is left-hand traffic, which we had to get used to, but the roads are well developed and there are hardly any toll roads. An international driver’s license is officially required to rent a car, but we were never asked for it.

The road leading to Mount Cook National Park, next to the Tasman Lake with blue water

What to pack for your New Zealand road trip:

  • Rain, fleece and down jackets: The weather in New Zealand is unpredictable and can change within minutes. It is therefore advisable to carry several layers of clothing in both winter and summer so that you can take them off or add them as required. A waterproof rain jacket with a hood and hat are an absolute must!
  • Hiking boots: I’ve hardly worn my hiking boots as often on any other trip as I did in New Zealand. They should also be waterproof and have a good tread for stony paths.
  • A reusable water bottle: the tap water in New Zealand is safe to drink and of very good quality. This saves you waste and money on disposable bottles.
  • Offline maps: not everywhere in New Zealand has good reception. Especially away from cities, in the middle of the wilderness. So download offline maps of your planned hiking trails and the surrounding area in advance.
  • Sunscreen: even if you probably won’t be lying on the beach much, the UV radiation in the mountains is very intense.
  • Environmentally friendly insect repellent: the annoying little sand flies are unfortunately found in many places in New Zealand – especially during the warm season. They bite and leave itchy bites that resemble mosquito bites. But you can keep them at bay with mosquito spray 🙂
mountain views during a road trip in New Zealand
the mountain views seen from plane during a scenic flight in New Zealand

New Zealand Must See’s – The best places to visit & attractions during your road trip

The North and South Islands of New Zealand

New Zealand consists of two main islands, the North Island and the South Island. These are not only very different in terms of landscape, but also in terms of climate. We traveled to both islands during our New Zealand round trip, but we spent most of our time on the South Island and were therefore able to check off and test almost all of our must-dos. However, I will also give you tips for places that we were unfortunately unable to visit ourselves due to time constraints, but which should not be missing from your itinerary.

Traveling from the North Island to the South Island

You can travel from the North Island to the South Island by ferry or by plane. The ferry trip between Wellington and Picton is possible both on foot and by car. You can enjoy the view of the Marlborough Sound and, with a bit of luck, even see whales, dolphins or fur seals.

→ Book your ticket for the ferry crossing here!

My map with the best sights & most beautiful places in New Zealand:

The most beautiful sights on the North Island of New Zealand

1 Auckland

New Zealand’s largest and busiest international airport is in Auckland. This is why most holidaymakers start their trip to New Zealand from here. We also flew to Auckland via Doha and decided to spend a few days in the city and the surrounding area. Auckland has a futuristic yet cozy charm. The harbor city reminds me of a Scandinavian city with hip restaurants, a harbor promenade to stroll along and numerous shopping opportunities.

→ Book the best Hotels in Auckland here!

the skyline view with the sky tower in Auckland, New Zealand

As you stroll through the city, your gaze naturally falls on the city’s most famous landmark, the Sky Tower. It offers a fantastic 360-degree panoramic view of the whole of Auckland, the surrounding area and the Rangitoto volcano. A visit to the two viewing platforms is well worthwhile in good weather! The particularly brave can even try a SkyWalk at lofty heights!

Entrance fee: 38 NZD (around 21 EUR) → Here you can book your ticket online!

the skyline view over Auckland from the Skytower, one of the best sights in New Zealand
the skyline view with the sky tower in Auckland, New Zealand

Sailing tours, which start in the harbor, as well as dolphin and whale watching tours are also a very popular attraction in Auckland. Dolphins can be seen here all year round.

→ Find the best tours here:

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2. Hobbiton

This place is not just a must-see for fans of the Lord of the Rings films! Hobbiton is the film set “The Shire”, the home of the hobbits, which was used for both ‘The Lord of the Rings’ and ‘The Hobbit’. The drive from Auckland is truly dreamlike and feels like you’re traveling to a dream world: rolling green hills with countless sheep and lambs jumping across the meadows. You hardly meet any other people. It’s so idyllic …

A visit to Hobbiton is only possible with a guided tour, which starts in groups at fixed times. Not only do you have the chance to experience the hobbits’ cute houses up close, you can even go inside one of them. The house is fully equipped, with a fireplace, bathtub, kitchen and many other rooms. And exactly as they were used in the films. The houses and the entire village are so lovingly furnished with so many details that I had the feeling that a hobbit could walk out of one of the small front doors at any time.

one of the best attractions in New Zealand is Hobbiton, the lord of the rings movie set
walking next to the Hobbit houses in Hobbiton New Zealand

A visit to Hobbiton is a popular day trip from Auckland, which is why the time slots are quickly booked up.

→ Book your ticket for Hobbiton here in advance

Overlooking Hobbiton in New Zealand, one of the most famous attractions

3. Waitomo

Waitomo is not far from Hobbiton. The region is best known for its mystical and impressive glowworm caves, which are unique in the world. In the Waitomo Caves there are impressive stalactites hanging from the ceiling and millions of glowworms create a blue glowing natural spectacle. As the caves resemble a labyrinth and an underground river flows through them, access is only possible with a guided tour. Various providers offer adventurous tours with abseiling and climbing, rafting or simply relaxing in a boat – there is an adventure for everyone.

If you love exciting adventures, you can even abseil hundreds of meters into the caves in the Waitomo Caves.

The landscape around the caves is also beautiful and offers great trails through moss-covered rocks along streams to waterfalls. The Ruakuri Walk is a short and beautiful one-kilometer circular trail.

Waimoto cave is one of the best attractions to see during a road trip in New Zealand
rappelling in the Waitomo Cave in New Zealand, one of the most thrilling things to do in New Zealand
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4. Lake Taupō & Tongariro National Park

In the heart of New Zealand’s North Island lies Tongariro National Park with nearby Lake Taupō, the largest lake in New Zealand. From here, you have a great panoramic view of the three volcanoes of Tongariro National Park.

→ Book your hotel in the region here

love Taupo sign, lake Taupo New Zealand

´In Tongariro National Park, there are numerous hikes and footpaths to explore the unique landscape of volcanoes that are still active today:

  • The Tongariro Alpine Crossing is particularly well known. However, you should plan a full day for the 20-kilometre route and be experienced in hiking. You will be rewarded with views of blue crater lakes and steaming fields. The landscape seems to be from another planet. Due to the popularity of the trail, hikers must register before the tour via → dieses Buchungssystem registrieren.Are you not an experienced hiker but still want to experience the hike or are you traveling alone? → Then you can book a guided Tongariro Alpine Crossing tour here!
  • A shorter option is the Taranaki Falls Trail. You only need around two hours for the hiking trail and will also be able to marvel at great views and even a waterfall. The circular trail is also suitable for beginners.
Tongariro National Park is one of the best attractions to see during a road trip in New Zealand

5. Redwoods Whakarewarewa Forest

The largest trees in the world: Giant Sequoia Trees can also be found in New Zealand! Namely in the Redwoods Whakarewarewa Forest! However, the trees here are significantly younger than their relatives in Sequoia National Park in the USA (90 years compared to 2000+ years) and therefore even smaller. But even the “young” Sequoia trees are already a considerable size. In the Redwoods Forest, you will find a trail that leads through the canopy on suspension bridges and platforms at lofty heights. After sunset, lanterns glow in the treetops, creating a magical and romantic atmosphere.

a hanging bridge in the forest on the North Island of New Zealand
a hanging bridge in the forest on the North Island of New Zealand

6. Lake Tarawera

Lake Tarawera is a popular destination for locals. Both for swimming and boating in summer as well as for year-round hiking or to enjoy the view of the extinct volcano Mount Tarawera. On windless days, the lake resembles a mirror that reflects the mountains and the sky. Thanks to numerous jetties leading into the water, you can find fantastic photo opportunities at sunrise or sunset.

The Tarawera Falls are just a few minutes away from the lake. The Tarawera Falls Track offers fantastic views of the Tarawera River and is a short 20-minute walk (each way). To get to the parking lot, however, you must obtain an access permit. This costs 10 USD and can be obtained at the Visitor Center in Kawerau. I have marked the exact location on my New Zealand map.

Tarawera Waterfall is one of the best attractions to see during a road trip in New Zealand

Tarawera Falls

Lake Tarawera is one of the best attractions to see during a road trip in New Zealand

Tarawera Lake

7. Geothermal Parks

The North Island of New Zealand is tectonically very active, resulting in volcanic activity and geothermal fields that steam and bubble from every corner. There are several parks where you can walk on safe paths and walkways across the hot and fragile landscape:

  • Kuirua Park – the only geothermal park in New Zealand that is open to the public free of charge
  • Hell’s Gate – here you can bathe in healing mud and natural hot springs. Admission: 105 NZD (around 58 EUR)
  • Waiotapu Thermal Wonderland – The most famous geothermal park on the North Island! Here you can marvel at impressive sulphur lakes and geysers. Admission: 45 NZD (around 25 EUR
  • Craters of the Moon – We were here! You can walk on wooden walkways over bubbling mud and the steaming ground. There is a mystical atmosphere which makes for great pictures. You should plan around 1 – 1.5 hours for the circular walk. Entrance fee: 10 NZD (around 5.50 EUR)
walking through a geothermal park on the North Island is one of the best things to do in New Zealand
walking through a geothermal park on the North Island is one of the best things to do in New Zealand

→ Book the best geothermal activities here:

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The best places to visit on New Zealand’s South Island

1. Christchurch

Our trip to the South Island started in Christchurch in the north-east of the island. We traveled on by plane from Auckland and spent two nights in the small city. Christchurch was badly destroyed by an earthquake in 2010, but most of the buildings have since been rebuilt. As a result, the city looks very new and modern.

→ Book the best stays in Christchurch here!

a view over the city Christchurch in New Zealand

These are my personal highlights in Christchurch:

  • Riverside Market – There are various food stalls, a bar with New Zealand beer, great wines to taste and local products to store for. The market is open from midday to evening and is a great place to stroll around and enjoy whatever the weather.
  • He Puna Taimoana Springs – Enjoy the great view of the ocean while relaxing in one of the hot pools. There is also a steam room, a sauna with ocean views and a cold plunge pool. Perfect for relaxing after a hike.
  • A punt trip on the Avon River is a classic in Christchurch and especially beautiful in good weather! As the relaxed boat trip through the park is very popular, you should book your ticket in advance.
  • The historic Christchurch tram – it’s hard to imagine the cityscape without it and is also a classic in Christchurch. The hop-on hop-off ticket is the ideal way to explore the city. Evening dinner tours on the tram are also offered.
  • Christchurch Cable Car – Enjoy the view over the city and the surrounding area without having to hike? It’s possible with the Christchurch Cable Car!

→ This combination ticket includes the boat trip on the Avon River, a round trip on the historic tram and a ticket for the cable car at a reduced price.

  • As an alternative in bad weather, we visited the International Antarctic Center, which we can only recommend. Christchurch is an important connection point for expedition flights to Antarctica, so the topic plays a major role here. At the Antarctic Center, you can learn all about the ice continent in an entertaining and interactive way. This also includes an arctic storm simulation, penguins and huskies!
  • Tussock Hill – Just outside Christchurch is the Tussock Hill winery and restaurant with a great view in good weather. But even when it rains, the restaurant is worth a visit thanks to the cozy ambience and the good food & wine!

→ Book the best Christchurch tours here:

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2. Akaroa

During our time in Christchurch, our day trip to Akaroa was a real highlight. The small French town has a European feel with cute houses and French street names. But what makes Akaroa so unique is above all its secluded location, surrounded by unique nature and spectacular views. There is also a colony of indigenous little penguins here. 

Here I can recommend the Pōhatu Penguins Tour! The family business has set itself the task of protecting the feathered dwarfs, as the number of animals unfortunately declined sharply ten years ago. Thanks to the protection measures, the number of animals is now increasing again. A large part of the colony lives on the private property, as well as seals and cuddly sheep. Sometimes dolphins can also be observed in the bay. There are also fantastic viewpoints over the landscape. We did the tour in the rain and still had a great time. The views are phenomenal, especially on a clear day.

→ Here you can book the same Wildlife Discovery Tour as we did!

The family business also offers longer tours, for example with hikes and kayak trips or evening penguin watching.

3. The TranzAlpine Train from Christchurch to Greymouth

Another highlight of our trip to New Zealand was the picturesque train journey from the east coast (Christchurch) to the west coast (Greymouth). The route leads through the middle of the country, past spectacular views such as canyons, mountain panoramas and endless expanses. We booked the 5-hour trip in the Scenic Plus category, with our own table at the huge panoramic window. The ticket for this category also includes two à la carte meals as well as non-alcoholic and alcoholic drinks. The Scenic Plus compartment is connected to the panoramic carriage outside, which is ideal for taking photos thanks to the unobstructed view. The TranzAlpine train ride is an incredible experience all year round and for me is one of the best things to do in New Zealand.

P.S. Of course, the trip is also offered in the other direction, from west to east.

→ Book your train ticket here!

breakfast in the transalpine lake in New Zealand, overlooking the mountains
enjoying the view from the Transalpine Lake in New Zealand

4. Franz Josef / Waiau

Franz Josef/Waiau is a small village with just under 500 inhabitants. However, it should definitely not be missing from your New Zealand bucket list! The sleepy town is known for the Franz Josef Glacier of the same name, which is located above the town.

→ Book the best accommodation in Franz Josef here!

These are the most beautiful sights & activities that you should not miss in Franz Josef / Waiau, New Zealand:

Helicopter Glacier Hike

I’m still speechless after this experience: flying by helicopter to the Franz Josef Glacier to hike on the eternal ice!

First of all, of course, you get the right equipment. This includes waterproof trousers, warm boots, a jacket, a hat, woolly socks, a helmet … just remember to bring your own sunglasses to protect your eyes. Afterwards, we take a helicopter in small groups from the village up to the glacier. There we hike with ice ramps through the unique ice landscape. The blue ice glows incredibly in the sun and the ice canyons are particularly impressive.

one of the best attractions in New Zealand Is a Heli Glacier in Franz Josef, New Zealand
one of the best attractions in New Zealand Is a Heli Glacier in Franz Josef, New Zealand

The helicopter tours only take place in good and clear weather so that the pilots can fly safely. It is therefore a good idea to book the flight for your first day in Franz Josef. That way, you can switch to an alternative date on the second day if necessary.

You should definitely not miss the Glacier tour! For me, it is one of the absolute highlights and the most beautiful places in New Zealand!

→  Here you can book the same Glacier Hike Tour!

The Terrace Walk to the Callery Gorge Bridge

Incidentally, the Franz Josef Glacier is one of only three glaciers in the world that are surrounded by rainforest! (The second is also in New Zealand and the third in Patagonia).  A great hike to explore the mystical rainforest is the Terrace Walk from Franz Josef / Waiau to the Callery Gorge bridge. You should plan around two hours for the outward and return journey and wear good shoes. The hike is also great in rainy weather, perhaps even more beautiful than in sunshine. The rain gives the forest a mystical atmosphere.

standing at a canyon in New Zealand with blue water in a forest, one of the most beautiful attractions in New Zealand
standing at a canyon in New Zealand with blue water in a forest, one of the most beautiful attractions in New Zealand

Roberts Point Track

If you have more time and the weather is nice, the Roberts Point Track is an exciting alternative. The 12.3-kilometre circular trail can be completed in around 5 hours and offers great views of the rainforest, a waterfall and even the glacier. As you have to cross a total of three suspension bridges, several steps and larger rocks on the trail, the hike is rated as moderate to strenuous.

West Coast Wildlife Center

At the West Coast Wildlife Center you have the unique opportunity to see a guaranteed kiwi! The cute birds are reared here and then released into the wild. Our guide first told us a lot about the special animals and the project before we were allowed to see two of the animals. And they are much bigger than I had always imagined! Unfortunately, we were not allowed to take photos of the animals.

Waiho Hot Tubs

To end an eventful day in a relaxed manner, I can warmly recommend the Waiho hot tubs – in the truest sense of the word. The wooden hot tubs are fired with firewood and can be booked for up to four people for a certain time slot. Surrounded by the rainforest and chirping birds, this is pure relaxation! You can also bring your own drinks to enjoy during your relaxation time.

a hot tub in the forest, one of the best attractions in New Zealand

Waiho Hot Tubs

Roberts Point Track in New Zealand, a hanging bridge over a canyon in the forest

Roberts Point Track

→ More activities in Franz Josef:

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5. Wānaka

→ Book the best hotels in Wānaka here

The drive from Franz Josef to Wānaka is very picturesque and offers numerous opportunities for photo stops along the way. A particular highlight is Thunder Creek Waterfall, which is just a few minutes’ walk from the road, or Bruce Bay View Point in Haast – great views guaranteed!

the sunrise at a beach on the South Island of New Zealand

Bruce Bay View Point

a waterfall along the road in New Zealand

Thunder Creek Falls

Lake Wānaka

Swimming in summer and skiing in winter! The huge Lake Wānaka is a beautiful sight in New Zealand all year round that you shouldn’t miss. Plan at least two days in Wānaka to see some of the most beautiful places in New Zealand:

Mou Waho Island

A boat trip on the lake to the idyllic Mou Waho Island is a wonderful activity! Once on the island, a short hike leads to the highest point of the island, where another small lake is hidden. A lake on an island, so to speak, in a lake on an island 😉 The summit offers a great panorama over the lake and the surrounding mountains!

→ Here you find the same boat tour

beautiful mountain views during a hike at lake Wanaka are the best views during a road trip in New Zealand
lake Tanaka is one of the best attractions to see during a road trip in New Zealand

Roys Peak

The most famous hike on Lake Wānaka and perhaps even in New Zealand? Roys Peak offers a fantastic view over the breathtaking landscape around Lake Wānaka. However, the hike is a tough one: 16 kilometers and 1,300 meters of ascent from the Roys Peak parking lot, for which you need to plan around 5-6 hours. Depending on the season, you may have to queue at the summit to take the popular photo with a view. However, there are countless other photo opportunities and views that you can enjoy and photograph on the way to the summit.
Unfortunately, we had to cancel the hike due to bad weather. We would have only seen clouds at the summit… Nevertheless, I don’t want to hide this great hike from you and hope that you can experience it on your own trip to New Zealand!

P.S. Unfortunately, the hike is closed during the lambing season from October 1 – November 10.

the Roys peak is one of the best attractions to see during a road trip in New Zealand

Scenic flight from Wānaka to Milford Sound

The absolute top experience of our trip and an unforgettable activity in New Zealand, is a scenic scenic flight from Wānaka to Milford Sound and back, in a small Cessna plane. During the two-hour flight, I was constantly looking out of the window and could hardly believe my eyes. The small plane has the ability to fly close along mountain ridges, snow-capped peaks, glacial lakes and the valleys of the Southern Alps. The flight into the Milford Sound fjord is spectacular: a completely different landscape with lush green rocks and waterfalls cascading down the cliffs! The scenic flight is incredibly spectacular and includes a short landing in Milford Sound before heading back over the mountains to Wānaka! I had goosebumps on our flight! An absolute must-do in New Zealand that should definitely be on your itinerary!

We booked our tour with a friendly family business. The family invests an incredible amount of passion and heart and soul to offer every guest an unforgettable experience!

→ Here you can book the same scenic flight!

the mountain views seen from plane during a scenic flight in New Zealand
landing with a Cessna at Milford Sound, during a scenic flight in New Zealand

6. Aoraki / Mount Cook

At 3,754 meters, Aoraki / Mount Cook is the highest mountain in New Zealand and one of the most popular sights in New Zealand. The drive to Mount Cook National Park alone is a highlight, as the picturesque road leads along the blue waters of the glacial lake Pukaki and the Tasman River. We would have loved to stop every few minutes to take photos of the unique view!

The road leading to Mount Cook National Park, next to the Tasman Lake with blue water
The road leading to Mount Cook National Park, next to the Tasman Lake with blue water

Once you arrive at the small village, there are various circular trails and hikes through the national park to explore the unique landscape. Unfortunately, the weather conditions on site are often worse than in the surrounding area, as the clouds are stuck in the mountains and thus hide the view of Mount Cook. But it’s still well worth a visit – and with a little luck and patience, you’ll see a spectacular view of Mount Cook.

Hooker Valley Track

You shouldn’t miss the Hooker Valley Track. This leads from the parking lot from the valley over suspension bridges, along the Hooker River to a blue glacial lake. On a clear day, you will be rewarded with a majestic view!

the hooker valley track is one of the best attractions to see during a road trip in New Zealand

7. Milford Sound

Probably the most famous sight in New Zealand is Milford Sound. On the southern west coast, the fjord impresses with cliffs thousands of meters high and rugged mountain formations with cascading waterfalls. You should allow more time for the journey by car through Fiordland National Park than Google Maps calculates, as the views are beautiful and there are various viewpoints to stop at.

The atmosphere is particularly magical on a rainy day, when the water flows down the rock faces, and in spring, when the snow melts in the mountains and creates strong streams of water.

A visit to Milford Sound would not be complete without a boat trip through the fjord to its connection to the sea. You will see numerous waterfalls rushing into the fjord, sleeping seals and huge rock faces. The scenery is reminiscent of a landscape from a fairytale movie!

A boat tour in Milford Sound is one of the best things to do in New Zealand
a waterfall in Milford Sound, New Zealand

Be sure to book your ticket for the boat trip in advance, as the boats only depart at fixed times and are very busy – the last departures leave as early as late midday.

→ I linked the best tours here for you:

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By the way, you can also go kayaking and diving in Milford Sound!

→ Insider tip: The lesser-known but also incredibly beautiful Doubtful Sound fjord is also worth a visit!

8. Queenstown

→ Find your perfect stay in Queenstown

The most beautiful and best-known city on the South Island is Queenstown. It is picturesquely situated on Lake Wakatipu and offers an ideal base for many of the most beautiful sights and activities in New Zealand. You should definitely not miss these sights in Queenstown:

the best attractions in Queenstown New Zealand

Skyline Queenstown

The Skyline is a new attraction in Queenstown. The gondola takes you up to 784m to the top of Ben Lomond mountain. From here you have a great view over the town and Lake Wakatipu and can either hike down, ride a mountain bike or even take a summer toboggan run – of course you can also simply take the gondola back down to the valley. We took the trip ourselves in the late evening to take part in one of the stargazing tours, as the summit is a popular place to admire the clear starry sky. On the tour, we were able to marvel at various stars, planets and the craters of the moon thanks to professional telescopes.

Tip: To see both the view and the starry sky, we recommend going up just before sunset. After you have marveled at the sunset and the sun has disappeared, you can enjoy dinner or a drink with a view in the Skyline Restaurant until the Stargazing Tour begins. 🙂

→ Here you find all tours & activities of Skyline Queenstown

Skippers Road & Arrow River Tour

The best experience for me in Queenstown was our tour with Nomad Safaris on Skippers Road and to the Arrow River. Following in the footsteps of the gold miners who flocked to New Zealand in the 19th century during the “gold rush”. Skippers Road once led to a small gold mining town. Today this is long forgotten and the road is considered one of the most spectacular and exciting in the whole of New Zealand. As it can only be driven in an off-road vehicle and in many places runs close to the edge of the precipice, it is worth booking a guided tour. Especially in autumn and winter, when there is snow on the road, it can otherwise quickly become dangerous. Our guide also told us exciting stories from the old days and showed us the best viewpoints.

Afterwards, as part of the tour, we drove to the Arrow River, from which gold collectors used to mine several kilograms of gold every day. Gold can still be found in the riverbed today! We also tried our luck and even found a tiny crumb of gold thanks to our guide’s instruction in gold digging. But the trip along and through the river was an unforgettable adventure.

→ We booked our tour here! Highly recommend 🙂

Skippers Road is one of the most scenic rides during a road trip in New Zealand
Skippers Road is one of the most scenic rides during a road trip in New Zealand

Arrowtown

During the tour, we made a short stop in Arrowtown and I fell in love with the little town straight away. It takes its visitors back to the old “gold rush” days, with picturesque houses, cute stores and cafés as well as historical sites. In the fall, a big festival takes place here when the trees glow in intense yellow, orange and red. So be sure to plan some time in Arrowtown to explore and enjoy!

colorful trees foliage in Arrowtown is one of the best attractions in New Zealand

Shotover Jet – Shotover Canyon

Probably the most famous and exciting attraction from Queenstown is a jet boat ride through the Shotover Canyon! New Zealanders love the fast jet boats and they are the only way to see the Shotover Canyon near Queenstown. The boat speeds along the cliffs and fast turns provide adrenaline rushes and water splashes – a rain jacket with a hood is therefore highly recommended!

Even though I usually prefer to enjoy nature in peace and quiet, we didn’t want to miss out on this famous activity and had a lot of fun!

Note: There are numerous providers of jet boat tours, but only one of them goes through Shotover Canyon!

→ I linked the correct tour here for you!

A Jet Boat Tour through the Shotover Canyon is one of the most famous attractions in Queenstown, New Zealand
A Jet Boat Tour through the Shotover Canyon is one of the most famous attractions in Queenstown, New Zealand

Queenstown Promenade

Queenstown is a town that’s great for strolling and walking. No matter where you are, there is always something to discover: a great view, a tasty treat or a boutique to browse. A walk along the lakeside promenade to Queenstown Beach and through the Queenstown Garden is a real insider tip. It’s a great place to relax and enjoy the view of the lake, the mountain panorama and the town.

walking along the lake in Queenstown is one of the best attractions in New Zealand during a road trip
walking along the lake in Queenstown is one of the best attractions in New Zealand during a road trip

Deer Park Heights

An insider tip in Queenstown! Deer Park Heights is a picturesque drive, 550 meters above Queenstown with numerous free-roaming animals such as deer, buffalo and donkeys which can be fed or simply observed. The park also offers great views over the town and is still relatively unknown to tourists. The daily number of visitors is strictly limited, which is why a code must be purchased in advance to open the entrance barrier. To get a place, you should do this online at least one or two days before your planned visit. Entry costs NZD 55 (approx. EUR 30) per car and you can register → here.

→ More activity tips in Queenstown:

Here are some of my restaurant tips in Queenstown:

  • The Bathhouse on Queenstown Beach – great for breakfast and lunch in the historic bathhouse with a view of the lake
  • Fergburger is the most famous burger joint in Queenstown. The queue to order is always quite long, but the service is fast and the burgers are great!
  • Fergbaker – right next door is the bakery of the same owner, which, according to the locals, bakes the best meat pies – the favorite dish of New Zealanders.
  • Saigon Kingdom – we love Vietnamese cuisine! This restaurant was both authentic and very reasonably priced.
  • Gibbston Valley – a little out of the way, but very worthwhile: great wine, with a possible tour and a classy restaurant with local dishes in a cozy atmosphere. Gibbston Valley is not only a winery with a restaurant, but also a beautiful hotel outside the hustle and bustle of Queenstown

Hotel Tip in Queenstown: The Rees

The most beautiful hotel in Queenstown with great views over the lake, cozy interior, great food and a private beach is “The Rees” named after the founder of Queenstown William Gilbert Rees.

→ Book your stay at The Rees here!

sunrise view over the lake in Queenstown, New Zealand with the mountains in the background

I hope this article with the most beautiful sights and activities will help you to plan an unforgettable road trip through New Zealand. The journey to the other side of the globe is very worthwhile and unforgettable at any time of the year. Adventure and nature lovers in particular will have the time of their lives in New Zealand!

Do you have any questions about traveling to New Zealand? Then leave me a comment or send me a message on → Instagram 🙂

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the best places to see in New Zealand with map
the best places to see in New Zealand with map

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