New Zealand attracts tourists from all over the world with its incredible scenery and untouched nature. It is here that you can see and visit numerous attractions that are carefully protected. Find out more about what travelers should visit, useful travel tips and visa application

New Zealand is an island country and a real tourist magnet. It is here that every corner has something to fascinate a traveler. The country occupies two islands and is divided into 16 regions, each of which has its own flavor.

Where should tourists go in New Zealand?

The north island includes the following regions: 

Northland. These are deserted beaches, boat trips, and exploration of Maori culture. Here you can find the first European settlement in New Zealand, the city of Russell (Kororareka), the ethnic village of Waitangi, Te Oneroa-a-Tohe beach, historical sites and beaches of the Bay of Islands. 

Auckland. Those who like urban recreation should take a walk in the city center, see the Sky Tower and other modern buildings. Visit Rainbow End Park, the Kelly Tarlton Underwater World Museum and Aquarium. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the local beaches where surfing, yachting and kayaking are practiced. Boat trips allow you to see the Hauraki Gulf and Manukau Bay.

Waikato. A region of amazingly beautiful nature, against which Peter Jackson filmed The Lord of the Rings. It is here that you can see Mount Orodruin - the old volcano Ngauruhoe, which is part of the Tongariro volcanic complex. This region is also known for the crater lake Taupo and the Huku terraced waterfalls, Waitomo firefly caves, panoramas of the Heranji Ranges and Ruapehu volcano.

Bay of Plenty. The region attracts tourists with beach vacations, recreation at geothermal springs, and the opportunity to watch whales and dolphins. 

The hallmark of this part of the country is the white island of Vhakaari, one of several active volcanoes in the world open to tourist groups.  This region is a great place for lovers of active river recreation. 

Gibsbourne. A fairly remote region of the country with Vharekahika Bay (also known as Hicks Bay), Waiapu Valley and Te Urewera Nature Park.

Hawke's Bay. The region on the eastern tip of the North Island is known for its hunting, fishing and outdoor activities. The Mojaca River canyons, Kaweka Forest Park, and Cape Te Kauwa'a Maui are a great setting for hiking, rafting, and just relaxing in nature. 

Taranaki. The richest region of New Zealand, named after the Great Volcano (also known as Mount Egmont), is an ideal place for surfing.

Manawatu-Wanganui. The pearls of this part of the northern island are the Manawatu and Wanganui river valleys. Hiking trails and canoeing allow you to see them and admire the beauty of nature.

Wellington. The metropolitan region attracts tourists not only with the cradle of the New Zealand film industry, but also with numerous natural attractions. Eight regional parks, the Southern Alps, Lake Wairarapa, the Kapiti Coast, and the Marlborough Sounds canals are a paradise for tourists.

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Are you planning a trip to New Zealand? In order to navigate the country and know all the necessary rules for entering and staying on its territory, order a detailed checklist

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The regions of the South Island are:

Tasman. The northernmost tip of the New Zealand south beckons with a variety of landscapes. In addition to lakes, there are snow-capped mountain peaks and glacial valleys.  

Nelson. The city of the same name, which is the center of the region, attracts tourists with its colonial architecture, the Miller Art Center and the workshop where the One Ring for The Lord of the Rings was forged.

Marlborough. This part of the country is known worldwide for its wines. It is also known for the opportunities for active and extreme recreation offered by the Kaikoura Ranges, the Tapua'e-o-Uenuku mountain region and the Wairau River.

West Coast. Here you can access the 5 highest points outside the Cook Islands. In addition, the Westland Tai Poutini National Park and the Coal Creek Waterfalls are worth seeing in this part of the country. The pearl of the region is the world-famous Pancake Rocks, which are part of the Paparoa National Park.

Canterbury. This forested mountainous region enchants with its landscapes. The best way to see them is to travel to Mount Cook Park. In addition, there is a beach near the town of Timaru where you can see the world's smallest penguins in the evening. And 50 km from Tekapo is the blue Pukaki Lake and the town of Wanaka. It is there that you can see the famous golden tree growing in the middle of a glacial reservoir. 

Otago. Rich in interesting small towns with a unique architectural heritage. The pearl of the region is the Kawerau Canyon and the famous Moeraki Boulders. Here is the Kawarau Bridge, the first place in the world to jump from a bungee, and the only place where you can do it together. 

Southland. The pearl of New Zealand's southernmost region is the largest and most beautiful Fiordland National Park. Tourists also come here to admire Milford Bay, the mirror lakes, Te Anau, the strange rocks near Pottereteri, and to see Sutherland, the highest waterfall in Oceania.

Please note that almost all places in New Zealand are equipped for eco-tourism. In all regions, there are "iwi" - Maori habitats, their ethnic settlements and holy places. Therefore, the main condition for tourism in New Zealand is respect for local culture and openness to new experiences.

Useful tips for tourists coming to New Zealand

The country is considered one of the safest for traveling. With an almost zero crime rate, there are no predators, poisonous snakes, insects, or even leeches. 

Here are a few things tourists should know:  

- When visiting Maori ethnic settlements or sacred sites, travelers should remember that they are entering "someone else's home, sacred place and living history" and behave accordingly;

- All visitors to the country should be fully vaccinated against SARS-CoV-2;

- Due to the cosmopolitan nature of the population (Europeans, Maori, Asians, etc.), you can take part in many cultural events, ranging from local holidays to the Iranian New Year;

- You should not go out without Sanskrit, especially during the high season;

- The official language is English. 

- Locals love to talk to tourists. Even in the bank, a stranger may greet you, ask about news from the Old World, and tell you about themselves, their family affairs, and the adventures of their neighbors.

Do I need a visa to travel to New Zealand?

The country's authorities have introduced a convenient website that provides complete information on how travelers from all over the world can visit New Zealand and find everything they need to know about traveling.

If you find it difficult to understand, you can use the help of an agent.