Itching to race down dunes, climb mountains, take on a glacier hike or slice through snow some-place far, far away?
From the tip of Cape Reinga down to the wildlife-rich Stewart Island, New Zealand’s got you covered – and so do we.
There are options all year round, especially during summer and winter. All you’ve got to do is pick your season of choice and hold on to your helmet!
Winter
If the idea of a winter adventure in New Zealand appeals to you these are some things you shouldn’t miss.
Hitting Slopes in Queenstown
Break in your new ski boots in Queenstown, the adrenalin capital of the world and the South Island’s go-to destination for an active mountain break.
Alternatives in the area include ice skating, escapades by snowmobile and even bungee jumping (a bit of a stretch (literally) from typical seasonal sports, but great for embracing the fresh winter breeze).
Glacial Adventures in Franz Josef
Because you’ll get to dodge the rainy season, winter time is best for visiting the phenomenon that is the Franz Josef Glacier. It’s set in Te Wahipounamu, a UNESCO World Heritage site on the South Island’s West Coast, and can be discovered through historical valley walks, climbs, hikes and even heli-skiing. 100% coolness guaranteed.
Snow Tubing Near Lake Tekapo
Unleash your inner snow tuber at Tekapo Springs, a winter park near Lake Tekapo with hot pools and an ice skating rink. For something a bit tamer, exercise your legs and eyes with a walk around the lake where trails offer picturesque views of Mount Cook, the country’s highest mountain.
Caves and Pancakes in Punakaiki
Winter isn’t just about the white stuff. For shelter from the snow, set out to Punakaiki’s 30 million-year-old Pancake Rocks. These limestone formations will have you craving a caving adventure (or pancakes), which you can take at the formidably dark Punakaiki cavern in Paparoa National Park. Mind your step!
To Unwind… See Geothermal Springs in Rotorua
No sweat-inducing sports trip is complete without a bit of cooling off… but it’s winter so hotting up is probably more appropriate. Put down that ice cream and test the waters at one of Rotorua’s hot springs. Not up for a dip? Be blown away by Whakarewarewa geyser, instead.
Summer
These are some of the best things to do in New Zealand during summer.
Bungee
New Zealand is the bungee jumping capital of the world and this is the perfect adventure for anyone brave enough. You can jump off almost anything in New Zealand, from skyscrapers, to bridges to cliffs in places like Queenstown, Taupō and Auckland.
If you have nerves of steel check out the highest bungee in New Zealand, the Nevis Bungy at 134m height! Expect 8.5 seconds of pure fear and the biggest adrenaline rush of your life.
Walking Trails Along The Coromandel
The Coromandel Peninsula is home to Hot Water Beach, unparalleled for lounging on sizzling sands – although that’s obviously not what you’ll be in the area for. Slip into your hiking boots and try one or more of its stunning walkways and hidden trails, from the scenic Poley Bay to the dense Waiomu Kauri Grove.
Dune Riding On Cape Reinga
Ready to feel like a kid again? Rediscover your inner child, climbing and tumbling up and down sand dunes at Cape Reinga whilst taking in views of both the Tasman Sea and Pacific Ocean. You know you want to.
Catching Waves In Westport
Calling all surf buffs! For the best kinds of sand, sea and salty air, cross over to Westport and experience Tauranga Bay and the more advanced Nine Mile Beach. Together, these form a surfer’s paradise on the South Island’s West Coast. If it swells, ride it.
Black Water Rafting In Waitomo
What’s another name for the Best Rafting Experience You’ll Likely Ever Find? Black Water Rafting, offers refreshing underground fun when the summer heat hits.
Lots of tours are available to book where you’l get a guide who will take you through the Waitomo Caves: dotted with glow-worms, these are majestic must-visits for water babies-come-vampires seeking out their subterranean heaven.
To Unwind… Take A Dip With Dolphins in The Bay Of Islands
Head down (or up) to the penguin-populated Bay of Islands where, if you’re lucky, you’ll get to spot dolphins, penguins and whales, as well as upping your adrenalin level with an abundance of water sports. (And penguins. Did we mention there’d be penguins?)
This isn’t the only place in the country for making friends with local wildlife: if you’re on the South Island, visit Akaroa to find the world’s rarest and smallest dolphin species.
Plan an Epic Trip to New Zealand
Whether you are after a backpacking adventure or a gap year in New Zealand hopefully our guide has highlighted some of the most thrilling activities you can book. There are options all year round and if you are unsure where to go check out this article will help you to decide whether to travel the north or South island of New Zealand.