A relaxing trip to New Zealand is just what many of us need. With the borders finally opening up between the two Tasman neighbours, it has many of us finally booking that long-overdue international flight. But, what do you do when you get to New Zealand? What is there to do, see, and discover while you’re there? 

New Zealand is easily one of the most beautiful countries in the world. The rugged landscape is famous for many, not least because it features in many blockbuster movies. It’s likely that while you’re here, you’ll want to see as much of this incredible landscape as you can, including all of the absolute best bits. While we might argue that every street corner is just as stunning as the last in New Zealand, as with any country, there are some absolute standouts. So, before you board that exciting international flight, let’s plan ahead and see what the best of New Zealand truly is. 

Fiordland National Park

Let’s start with one of the best of the best. Home to what Rudyard Kipling has described as ‘the eighth wonder of the world’, Fiordland National Park is definitely one of those sights that you’ll not get out of your head for many years after you’ve visited. It’s where J. R. R. Tolkien got his inspiration for the mirror lakes and misty mountains, and you will have your jaw dropped the entire drive through. Make sure to take it slow and steady as these roads are not for the faint-hearted, but nothing will compare to the moment you get out of the Homer Tunnel and cast your eyes onto one of the best landscapes you’ll ever see. Travel through and snap your camera as many times as possible, before hopping on to a boat cruise that’ll take you through Milford Sound. 

Mount Cook

Mount Cook is where you go when you need a breath of fresh, alpine air, incredible views, and a couple of days of just pure mountain bliss. It’s the tallest mountain in New Zealand, and it’ll make your jaw drop from the moment you cast eyes on it along State Highway 80. Mount Cook is certainly a standout piece of landscape for all that visit, and it is so different from anything you’ll see in Australia. With skyscraper peaks, glacier lakes, and snow all year round, you can visit this remarkable corner of the country all year round and still have that same incredible beauty. Mount Cook National Park (where the formidable Mount Cook lives) also features 23 peaks over 3,000 metres high, as well as 27 kilometres of glacial beauty, known as the Tasman Glacier. There are plenty of walks in and around the national park, and we definitely recommend adding this place as a stop if you’re doing a road trip - you won’t regret it. 

Lake Tekapo

This is the perfect calm stopping point in between the mighty Queenstown and the cool vibrancy of Christchurch. Lake Tekapo is a glacial lake, so from the get go, you know that the beauty here is seriously impressive. The bright blue lake is the centre point of the area, which you can view in all its glory standing at the top of Mount John. Venture up here to watch the sunset, before wandering down to watch some of the best stargazing you’ll ever see - irivals the Australian Outback in terms of incredible places to see the stars above. So once you’ve finished looking down at the beautiful blue, look up - the starry night sky is bound to impress you. 

Bay of Islands

Located in the northland of New Zealand, the Bay of Islands is the slice of paradise you didn’t know you needed. With incredible beaches, aqua blue oceans, and of course, a myriad of different islands all beautiful to look at and explore, you could spend a few blissful days here with no trouble at all. The Bay of Islands is located in the Northland region of New Zealand, where subtropical weather graces the area every day. Some notable highlights to visit while in the area include Paihia, Whangarei, Cape Reinga, and the Poor Knight Islands. 

Tongariro National Park

Step straight into the depths of Mordor itself with a visit to the mighty Tongariro National Park. Ngauruhoe takes centre stage in this epic landscape; Tongariro National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one that is well worth the visit. Perhaps make a whole day out of it and participate in the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, an incredible hike where the phenomenal volcanic scenery will be the firm highlight. The three volcanoes that are located inside the national park, Ngauruhoe, Ruapehu and Tongariro, actually make up the southern limits of the Taupo Volcanic Zone, a key feature of the Pacific Rim of Fire. Venture in and enjoy the natural wonderland, but make sure to check the park website for any volcanic activity updates prior. 

Queenstown

The world capital of adventure, Queenstown is a must-visit spot for any person visiting New Zealand. What better way to mark the end of a travel-free two years than coming to this town of fun and frivolity, and relaxing with the beautiful Southern Alps and Lake Wakatipu as your backdrop! Whether you want to test your limits on some adrenaline-fuelled activities or simply relax, hike, and enjoy a Fergburger or two, there are so many ways to spend your time here. 

At Thrifty, we are so excited that the borders are open again. Family can be reunited, friends can finally take that long-awaited trip, and new countries can finally be explored. Whether this is your first trip across the Tasman or your third, this holiday will surely be just that extra bit special. Make the most of your time here, check the COVID requirements prior to flying, and stay safe. But, most of all - have a great time.