Things To Do In New Zealand

Shopping in New Zealand

Among the diverse stuffs to do in New Zealand, shopping is certainly one. The country has some very unique things to offer, which you can bring back home as souvenirs. Collecting Maori decorative items is a very common thing among tourists. Other than that, pounamu or jade stone ornaments, glass and wood items, merino wool and possum knitted winter-wear are some other things to buy here. All the cities in New Zealand have more than enough places to shop to the heart’s content, especially Auckland and Christchurch.

Adventure activities in New Zealand

Among the most-favoured New Zealand tourist activities is adventure. Any off the edge fun and exciting adventure activity that you can think of, New Zealand has got it. Skydiving, bungee jumping, jet boating, water rafting, cave hiking, zip lining, canyoning and the list goes on of the adventure activities that New Zealand has to offer.

Here are some of the other New Zealand activities to do.

1. Bungee jumping

Bungee jumping is one of the best things to do in New Zealand. Auckland Harbour Bridge is a very popular location for the sport, with a plunge of 40 metres into the ocean. Here is the world’s first commercial bungee jump as well, at Kawarau Bridge. But to take it up a notch, try the jump at Nevis Canyon which is the world’s third highest bungee jump from 134 metres height.

2. Explore Maori culture in New Zealand

A visit to New Zealand is incomplete without exploring the Maori culture thoroughly. Some of the best places to do so are Rotorua, Hokianga, Kaikoura, Waimarama, and the Bay of Islands in Waitangi where the Waitangi Treaty was signed between the Maori and European people.

3. Visit the Hobbiton

Among the things to not miss in New Zealand, Hobbiton is one, especially if you are a fan of the Lord of the Rings and the Hobbit movies. The green fields which are only a couple of hours drive from Auckland were used as a set for the location of Shire in the movie, where the hobbits Bilbo Baggins and his nephew Frodo lived in their house, Bag’s End. The place has been recreated for the fans to enjoy the Hobbit experience, with a couple of places like Green Dragon Pub and Shires Rest thrown in to add to the charm.

4. Swim with dolphins in Bay Island

Bay Islands are not only a destination to explore Maori culture, but also to have great underwater experience. Other than scuba diving, one can also enjoy swimming with the friendly pods of dolphins. Because the sea water around the North Island is comparatively warmer, you can enjoy swimming comfortably here without a wetsuit.

5. Hiking along the trails

Hiking is among the most beautiful yet underrated things to do in New Zealand. Some of the best trails to explore the country are Abel Tasman Coast Track, overnight hike at Mueller Hut Route, Buck Taylor Track Loop, Mount Victoria Trails, Abbey Caves, Franz Josef Glacier and the famous Tongariro Alpine Crossing, otherwise known as the land of Mount Doom to the LOTR fans.