New Zealand Things to See (Attractions & Sightseeing)
To find accommodation, tours or transport in any of the areas mentioned above, simply click on Accommodation, Tours or Transport.
- Akaroa – First settled by French colonists, this delightful harbour town, 90-minutes south of Christchurch, retains touches of gallic charm and is popular with local and visiting artisans. » Akaroa Travel Directory
- Chatham Islands – You could be the first to see the dawn of a new day. First settled 1,000 years ago by the now almost-extinct Moriori tribe, the Chatham Islands lie 850km due east of Christchurch. Fishing, scuba and waling are popular activities. » Chatham Island Travel Directory
- Coromandel Peninsula – Perfect for weekends away from Auckland - take a soak at Hot Water Beach, explore subtropical rainforests and relax on quiet beaches on the Coromandel coastline. » Coromandel Travel Directory
- Moeraki Boulders – 30km south of Oamaru on the South Island's south-east coast, the Moeraki Boulders make a popular stop-off for photographers. These spherical mudstone boulders are written into Māori legend. » Moeraki Travel Directory
- Napier – Following an earthquake in 1931, much of Napier was rebuilt in the Art Deco style of that era. Considered to be one of the most significant groups of Art Deco buildings in the world. A celebratory Art Deco weekend is held annually in the 3rd week of February. » Napier Travel Directory
- Oamaru – View the colonies of little blue (or fairy) and yellow-eyed penguins as they waddle home at dusk. This quiet little town comes to live during mid-November with Heritage Celebrations including penny farthing races. » Oamaru Travel Directory
- Purakaunui Falls – Head down south and enjoy some beautiful river walking and birdspotting in the Catlins and visit the magnificent Purakaunui Falls and Jack's Blowhole. » More information about the Puakaunui Falls
- Taranaki Region – Drive to Mount Taranaki via the State Highway 43 across 160 kilometres of remote wilderness including 4 mountain saddles and along gorges. Keep your camera handy! » Taranaki Travel Directory
- The hill with a long name! – At 85 letters long, 'The summit where Tamatea, the man with the big knees, the climber of mountains, the land-swallower who travelled about, played his nose flute to his loved one', Taumatawhakatangihangakoauauotamateaturipukakapikimaungahoronukupokaiwhenuakitanatahu or Taumata, as it is known locally, has one of the world's longest place names.
The Best New Zealand Highlights
View our top ten pick of New Zealand's sights and highlights.
More New Zealand Highlights – By Region
View things to do on New Zealand's North Island or more suggestions for South Island sights & highlights.
More Things To See (Activities & Tours)
Whether it's walking or wine-tasting, cycling or sailing, jumping into a kayak, out of plane or off a bridge, New Zealand has a breath-taking array of activities for you to enjoy. View our suggestions of things to do in New Zealand for adrenalin junkies and the take-it-easy brigade!