There's plenty to keep you occupied when visiting our shores. We've rounded up some of the best activities to do while you're in Aotearoa, from the adrenaline-inducing to the peaceful and relaxing!
1. go zorbing
This one's for the adrenaline-junkies or those not afraid to try something different! If you're stopping by Rotorua during your travels, roll down the hill in a giant plastic ball. If you're thinking it's unique and a bit crazy, that's because it is! From rolling around corners, facing the drop track or taking the fast lane, you're almost guaranteed to come away laughing. Choose between a wet or a dry ride and then wind down and soak in the hot pools onsite after your spin down the hill. Zorb New Zealand have received Qualmark and outdoor safety certifications, so it's suitable for anyone to have a crack at!
2. DISCOVER OUR MAORI CULTURE
Our Maori culture is what sets us apart! Learn the Powhiri dance, how to perform the Haka (a traditional warrior dance) and enjoy a Maori Hangi in Rotorua at the Tamaki Village or Te Puia. If you're not heading down to Rotorua during your time in New Zealand, visit Auckland's War Memorial Museum or Bastion Point and read about the history of our people and land.
3. explore the Waitomo Caves
A dark wonderland that glows up, this little treasure is located in the 'Mighty Waikato.' The Waitomo Caves are like another world altogether. Around a 2.5 hour drive from Auckland, or 45 minute drive from The Tron (Hamilton), it's a great day-trippy. Gaze at the thousands of glowworms and learn about the history of the area and the labyrinth of caves. You can attempt blackwater rafting in the dark, go abseiling or zip-lining! Whatever you end up doing here, you'll be sure to agree that this is natures own playground.
4. Get into the great outdoors
Nature and the great outdoors is what we're all about in the land down under, so get out with mother nature and discover New Zealand's Great Walks! The Routeburn Track in Otago is renowned for it's snow-capped mountains and alpine views. The Tongariro Crossing is the most popular walking track in the North Island, with epic blue lakes and views across the central plateau and surrounding volcanoes. Lake Waikaremoana on the East Coast is another awesome track with incredible views of Panekire Bluff, native trees and spiritual history. Be sure to check out the Department of Conservation website for updated information on closures and tracks.
5. VISIT THE HOME OF THE BUNGY
We are indeed the home of the bungy! Queenstown of course is the hub of this activity, however there are many sites throughout the country where you can tick this one off the bucket list. Rotorua, Taupo, Hamner Springs and Mokai Gravity Canyon, located in the Manawatu Region are bungy's with their own thrills n' spills. This activity is by far the most adrenaline pumping New Zealand has to offer and each have their own epic views! AJ Hackett Bungy have also launched the Nevis Catapult - propelling you 150 metres across the Nevis Valley at almost 100kms an hour in 1.5 seconds! Not quite a bungy, but it's sure to have your blood pumping and it's not for the faint-hearted.
6. WATCH THE AGRODOME FARM SHOW
Agrodome's legendary farm show in Rotorua cannot be missed if you're an animal lover! Or, if you just want to witness and experience the farm life for yourself! With an onsite farmyard nursery, visit lambs and baby goats before the show starts in the barn! Witness a live sheep-shearing demonstration and learn about the 19 different breeds of sheep running around the stage. If you're brave enough in front of a crowd, volunteer and jump up on stage to hand-milk a cow or be part of the sheep auction, complete with farm dogs! For a country known for having more sheep than people, this is one activity that's sure to leave you with great memories and photos for the 'gram!
7. go paragliding
Paragliding is an activity that is not normally approached by travellers when staying on our shores, however this thrilling activity will have you feeling as free as a bird. You'll enjoy breath-taking scenery and feel like you're actually flying. When you're up hangin ' in the air, relax and take in the views! There are a few places where you can tick this activity off, Queenstown (of course), along with Nelson, Wellington, Hawke's Bay and Auckland.
8. wander the Sculptureum gardens
Only a day trippy from Auckland sits the Sculptureum Gardens in Matakana! If you're after a relaxing day outdoors or are an art-enthusiast, this one's for you. Discover the three sculpture gardens spanning 1.5km of flat paths, dotted with colourful sculptures, works of art and live animals that's sure to have you whipping your phone or camera out left, right and centre! The gardens opened in 2017 by a couple who are passionate about sharing local and international works of art on their property, including a giant hot pink snail installation! This is another one for the more relaxed traveller or those after a more laid back day in the sun.
9. TRY WHITE WATER RAFTING
This is one for the water babies and those who love the great outdoors! Race down through river rapids and navigate your way around the rocks in an inflatable boat and try not to drop your paddle! It's a great team building exercise for you and your travel buddies and is guaranteed to make you laugh. Go white water rafting in Auckland, the Central North Island, Canterbury, Queenstown, Tauranga or the Hawke's Bay. With several different 'grades' of rafting, it doesn't matter if you're a beginner or a pro! If you're not quite up to white water rafting in the great outdoors with mother nature, stop by Vector Wero White Water Rafting Park in Auckland, an outdoor water park with manmade rapids and rivers!
10. CHECK OUT THE MILFORD SOUND
An awesome activity for those of you who are interested in more relaxing ways to sightsee! Milford Sound is a fiord located in Otago in the South Island. The towering rainforests, waterfalls and peaks are incredible and the best way to discover the area is by boat! Milford Sound is home to fur seal colonies, penguins, dolphins and many varieties of sea birds, and the area is stunning during rain or shine, winter or summer! Check out JUCY Cruise as they offer package deals from Queenstown, with self-drive and return coach options.