I spent a year on working holiday in Aotearoa New Zealand, and traveled for about three months in total. Here are my favorite places and hidden gems to get started on your journey!
One of the many jobs I had in NZ! I may be biased, but it truly is a wonderful tour. Tell them Lucy says hi!
Seal Kayak Kaikoura
OBVIOUSLY you must go to Hobbiton! Whether you’re a LOTR nerd or not, it is beyond worth a visit.
Hobbiton Movie Set
Hands down one of the coolest experiences of my life.
Black Water Rafting Experience Waitomo Caves Tour
Gorgeous place to go tide pooling!
Taputeranga Marine Reserve: Places to go in Wellington and Kapiti
If being IN the water isn’t your thing, see the glow worms on top of it!
Glow Worm Kayak Tour - Rotorua
Great way to learn about the landscape and history of Queenstown while having a blast!
Shotover River Jet Boat Ride in Queenstown
Another past job of mine! This is your best chance to see Kiwis and many other bird (and reptile) species that you may not see in the wild!
Kiwi Park Queenstown
Super fun for all ages!
Queenstown Skyline Gondola and Luge Adventure Combo
Make sure you visit the DOC site for recommendations, camping/hut reservations, and restrictions.
Department of Conservation
Find all these tours and more for better prices! Always try to book with companies directly, but I of all people know you gotta save a little money here and there…
GetYourGuide
If you’re a visitor somewhere, especially a place with this much rich history, I believe it is your duty to learn about it. That and this is the best museum I have ever been to.
Te Papa (Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa), Wellington
Truly some of the most beautiful botanic gardens in the world. And free!
Christchurch Botanic Gardens
Some great tours to see the art Christchurch has to offer!
THE BEST Christchurch Arts Centre Tickets & Tours
Lovely way to see the city, get some fresh air, and take in the botanic gardens!
Christchurch River Punting on the Avon
I was lucky enough to participate in this tour twice, and it is perfect from start to finish. The guides are wonderful and knowledgeable, the information is fascinating, and the views are out of this world.
Milford Sound Cruise - RealNZ 2026
Real NZ offers plenty of other trips around the Queenstown area and the country.
