New Zealand Sightseeing

Sightseeing in New Zealand

New Zealand sits on the Pacific Ring of Fire and the landscape is one of contrasts – the South Island was formed largely by glaciers while the North Island is alive with volcanic activity. There are 14 national parks to choose from all the way from Tongariro in the North Island to Rakiura on Stewart Island, as well as many forest parks, scenic reserves, conservation areas and wildlife sanctuaries.

In contrast to the beautiful wilderness areas there are many cultivated environments, beautiful gardens and public parks in every New Zealand city, with a rich variety of classic blooms to enjoy.

New Zealand was settled by the Maori, a Polynesian people, over 100 years ago. Europeans arrived about 150 years ago and since then, New Zealand has become more multicultural with each passing year, with people from Asia, Southeast Asia, Europe and the Pacific making it their home.

This mix of cultures has created an interesting mix of the old and the new, with much to delight and interest the visitor.

If you’re feeling energetic and you’ve got the time, money and friends to go on an action trip with, you can organise to get yourself into a 4WD trip out in the countryside, connect with some aerial sightseeing or take up water adventures on the rivers.

There are also overland trekking and eco-tours, horse treks, scenic day trips of various sorts, sporting activities, walking and hiking and water sports in
beautiful places.

Golf is a bit more relaxed and there are the museums and heritage areas to explore. Cruising can be very enjoyable, relaxing and fun. Try an overnight cruise or a scenic or wildlife cruise.

Maybe a bit of time on a farm in a rural setting is more to your liking? Or a rail journey? Or is fishing your fancy? You can take a stroll through a public garden or parkland, explore Maori culture, visit a vineyard or go on a movie tour in the city.

There is a rich diversity of ways to enjoy yourself sightseeing on both the
North and the South Islands of New Zealand – it’s all there waiting for you to discover and enjoy and all it takes is the time, the energy and the opportunity.