Top Tourist Spots in New Zealand
One of the most picturesque places in the world is probably New Zealand. Whether you are a beach or mountain, hot or cold, indoor or outdoor type of traveler, New Zealand will have just the right place for you! So, if you are looking to cross out visiting New Zealand on your bucket list, here are some spots you should very much consider going in.
Bay of Islands, North Island
The Bay of Islands is the perfect tourist spot for travelers who enjoy a good mix of mountainous and water views. Adorned by more than 114 islands, the Bay of Islands is a famous area for yacht and boat sailing. While touring along the bay, travelers can spot different marine creatures such as penguins, dolphins, whales, and marlins. Other activities in this area include hiking, touring on secluded coves, exploring forests, and fishing.
Mount Cook National Park
Travelers who prefer the milder weather will also enjoy their stay in New Zealand. Situated in the Southern Alps, Mount Cook National Park boasts the highest peak and the longest glacier among entire New Zealand. Visitors can enjoy a whole day of mountaineering, ski-touring, heli-skiing, hunting, and sightseeing in this area.
Napier, Hawke’s Bay, North Island
Foodie travelers will have a field day visiting Napier, Hawke’s Bay. This popular tourist spot is famous for its gourmet restaurants specializing in fresh produce from the region. Travelers can also do a walking tour and adore the different Spanish Mission Style architecture and Art Deco design that graces this town.
Queenstown
New Zealand is also for people who chase thrills in life; after all, what is traveling without trying on a few adventures, right? Queenstown is perfect for those who want to try exhilarating experiences. Dubbed as the adventure capital of New Zealand, adrenaline-chasers can enjoy activities such as bungee jumping, paragliding, rock climbing, mountain biking, jet boating, and white water rafting.
Rotorua
New Zealand is truly a place where all forces of nature can be found. Situated in the Pacific Ring of Fire, Rotorua is one of the most active geothermal regions in the world. Tourists can visit various exciting attractions in this spot, such as mud pools, geysers, and volcanic craters. They can also enjoy activities such as soaking in minerals-rich springs or sky-diving, luging, and mountain biking.
Waitomo Glowworm Caves
Every time we travel, we yearn to bring back unique experiences from each trip. Waitomo Glowworm Caves is part of a stream comprising two other caves, namely Ruakuri Cave and Aranui Cave. These caves are impressive on their own, for it serves as homes for a massive population of glow worms that can only be seen in New Zealand. Visitors can book a boat ride to explore any or all of the caves and marvel at the fantastic phenomena and history the caves offer.
Whakarewarewa Geothermal Valley
Traveling is best enjoyed when you participate in the local culture. In Whakarewarewa Geothermal Valley, travelers can learn about the Maori culture by visiting the Maori Arts and Crafts institute. There, they can enjoy the popular steam box meal prepared using ancient geothermal cooking techniques. In addition, they can experience a Maori welcome ceremony complete with traditional song and dance performances.
New Zealand is a beautiful country that is indeed begging to be visited. And now is the perfect time to see such a place, considering that New Zealand has finally opened its borders to Filipino travelers. So get your passport ready, and embark on this journey of a lifetime.
Darlene, better known as Da, is currently a broadcasting student at the Polytechnic University of the Philippines - Manila. Her interests lie in K-pop, books, and coffee. With living an *extra* life in mind, she aspires to change the world for the better with the same grace and grandeur as Legally Blonde's Elle Woods.