This list is a source of inspiration for a visit to New Zealand. I hope you enjoy these tips as much as I enjoyed collecting them. This list will be further expanded.
Map
Sections
3
Places of interest
Accommodation
Books and maps
Places of interest
What to visit when in New Zealand
Auckland offers specific landmarks and attractions that promise unique experiences. From the iconic Sky Tower to Waiheke Island's wineries and the Auckland War Memorial Museum, there are countless opportunities for unforgettable moments.
Auckland
In this half day tour you will see the highlights of Auckland. This tour is a great way of getting to know Auckland.
Half-day Discover Auckland City Sightseeing Tour
You can learn about the history and significance of the mighty kauri tree in this museum.
The Kauri Museum - Matakohe
The gallery celebrates artist Friedensreich Hundertwasser’s vision of architectural creativity in harmony with nature.
Hundertwasser Art Centre
The centre takes in all injured birds, both native and non-native, and where possible nurses the birds back to health for release into the wild. More than 60% of the birds that are brought into the centre are successfully released again.
Whangarei Native Bird Recovery Centre
The ancient limestone caves are home to millions of twinkling glowworms including the famous Milky Way cavern.
Kawiti Glowworm Caves
Often called the 'Birthplace of the Nation', Waitangi weaves together the strands and stories of many people, events and places to reveal the rich cultural history of Aotearoa New Zealand, offering an inspiring and meaningful experience for every vis...
Waitangi Treaty Grounds
Russell is New Zealand’s oldest European settlement, and has a sleepy tranquillity that belies its tumultuous past. A picture-perfect seaside town, Russell is situated on a peninsula across the harbour from Paihia.
Russell
Walking the Karangahake Gorge Historic Walkway is an excellent activity. The track mirrors the bends of the Ohinemuri River with lots of signs of the old railway times.
Karangahake Gorge
Te Puke is the kiwifruit capital of the world.
Te Puke
Rotorua is known for its geothermal activity and Māori cultural tourism, and features geysers – the Pōhutu Geyser at Whakarewarewa – and hot mud pools.
Rotorua
This is a really beautiful day tour from Christchurch. Not te be misses when you have some days in Christchurch.
Akaroa Full Day Sightseeing Tour from Christchurch
Accommodation
Where te stay when in New Zealand
Located in the heart of Auckland, this hotel has an excellent location.
Nesuto Stadium, Auckland, New Zealand
Great location and excellent breakfast choices.
M Social Auckland, New Zealand
The location is stunning and the breakfast is good.
Copthorne Hotel & Resort Bay Of Islands, Paihia, New Zealand
Very comfortable place to stay with an excellent breakfast.
Scenic Hotel Bay of Islands, Paihia, New Zealand
Centrally located on the shores of Lake Rotorua, Novotel Rotorua Lakeside features a restaurant, a fitness centre, a geothermal spa and hot pools.
Novotel Rotorua Lakeside, Rotorua, New Zealand
Books and maps
Interesting reading material
This guide comes with an ebook and provides interesting facts about New Zealand’s people, history and culture and detailed coverage of the best places to see. This New Zealand travel book has the style of an illustrated magazine to inspire you and gi...
Insight Guides New Zealand Travel Guide with Ebook | Insight Guides
This classic guidebook provides you with the most comprehensive level of information for planning multi-week trips to New Zealand.
Lonely Planet New Zealand
National Geographic’s New Zealand Adventure Map offers a meticulously researched guide for thrill-seekers and explorers. Packed with precise details, it highlights hundreds of recreational, cultural, ecological, and historic spots—many of them hidden...
New Zealand Map
Complete Guide with Detailed Maps to Scenic Routes, Campgrounds, National Parks & Hidden Gems - Perfect for RVers, Vanlifers, Road Trippers & Adventure Seekers.
New Zealand Road Atlas 2025–2026
Includes pictures, online resources and a bibliography for further reading.
The Maori: The History and Legacy of New Zealand’s Indigenous People