If you’ve been dreaming about visiting New Zealand, it’s time to make it happen. The country is a mecca for outdoor adventure and has some of the most breathtaking natural beauty you’ll find anywhere in the world. But if you’re new to travelling here, it can be hard to know where to start. This article provides six exciting things to do when visiting New Zealand for the first time.
Mountain biking in Southland
If you’re the adventurous type, then mountain biking is a great way to see the countryside. There are many trails to choose from and it’s relatively easy to find a mountain bike for hire in Southland. You can ride for miles through stunning scenery with no one else around you.
Play Golf
If you’re a golfing enthusiast, New Zealand is a great place to visit. The country has over 200 golf courses and they are open all year round. You can even play golf in the winter, so it’s perfect for those who want to experience all four seasons.
There are many famous courses in New Zealand: St Andrews, Royal Wellington and Te Parapara are just a few of them. If you’re looking for something more local, there are plenty of locally-owned private clubs where you can enjoy an authentic Kiwi experience while playing some good old-fashioned links-style golf on green fairways surrounded by stunning scenery.
Get a Fun Bus Excursion
If you’re the type of person who likes to travel with a group and enjoy the comfort of your seat, fun bus excursions are a great option for you. You can get on and off at different places and see the country from the comfort of your seat while having a tour guide tell you about the history of each place.
Watch Dolphin Swimming
You can see dolphins in many locations around New Zealand. Some places where you can spot them include Kaikoura, the Bay of Islands and Raglan. If you are interested in seeing dolphins while on vacation to New Zealand, consider booking a dolphin swimming tour. This is a great way to get up close and personal with these intelligent mammals. Dolphin swimming tours are available at several locations throughout the country, including Kaikoura, the Bay of Islands and Raglan.
Plan a Fishing Trip
New Zealand is famous for its fishing, so you should definitely plan a trip to do some of it during your visit. The best way to do this is with a guide who knows the best places to go and how to catch the most fish. You’ll be able to bring home some delicious seafood or even maybe make some friends that can teach you how they cook their catch.
You’ll want to make sure that you pack plenty of sunscreens because the sun can be really bright in New Zealand—you don’t want any burns on your face when you’re out on the water. Don’t forget your camera too; there are lots of great photo opportunities once you get there. And don’t forget your book—it’s important not only for keeping busy but also for helping pass time if things aren’t going well on the fishing trip (or if someone gets tired).
Visit Sky Tower and Go Sky Walking
Sky Tower is the tallest building in New Zealand and a great place to get a bird’s-eye view of Auckland. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even go skydiving from the observation deck. You can also enjoy a meal at one of its restaurants or even get married at the top of the tower.
If you’d prefer not to take your life into your hands (or just don’t have time), make sure you check out Auckland Museum instead—it houses artefacts from all over New Zealand history, including an ancient Māori canoe that was salvaged from under Auckland harbor’s mud in 1982 after being lost for several centuries.
Conclusion
Whether you’re planning a trip soon or just looking for things to do in New Zealand, these are some great ideas. From hiking, fishing and golfing to watching dolphins and skydiving – there’s something for everyone.
About the Author
Monica is a passionate writer and content creator. Her interests include outdoor activities, fitness, technology, entrepreneurship and everything in between. Say hi to Monica on Twitter @monical_lee.
