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Best places to visit in New Zealand

New Zealand, the country of rugby where there are more sheep than people! This faraway land is home to some incredible fauna and flora and some breath-taking landscapes To help you organise your itinerary in the home of the 'Kiwis', our experienced travellers give you their opinion on the places to visit. Do not hesitate to click!

The North Island, where you will find Auckland, the country's largest city, will draw you in with its volcanoes and Maori culture. Tempted by the volcanoes? You will be delighted by the Tongariro National Park, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, as well as the inhabited White Island and the Rotorua geothermal park, known as the cradle of Maori civilisation. Immerse yourself in this culture at the Te Papa museum in Wellington, the country's cool, windswept and small capital. Are you a fan of the Lord of the Rings? You will find the recording studios here. In Tongariro you will find the kingdom of Mordor, while the Hobbits' village is in Matamata.

If you find wild nature and mountains bewitching, then you should head towards the South Island! When you're there, do not miss the superb Mount Cook, the highest peak in the country, or the dazzling turquoise waters of Lake Tekapo. Take an unforgettable trip to the Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers. Spot penguins on a boat trip among the unmissable Milford Sound fjords, unless you prefer the dolphins and whales off the coast of the charming village of Kaikoura! Don't forget the lush forest and the magnificent beaches of the Abel Taman National Park.

Thrill seekers should head to Queenstown, the city of extreme sports. Do a parachute jump, or hurtle down the ski slopes in the Remarkables or at Treble Cone, which can rival their beauty, in the peaceful region of Wanaka.

North Island? South Island? Or both? It's up to you!

Lisa Gaillard
Definitely the most beautiful park in my opinion, with lush greenery up to the edge of turquoise water. It's paradise for hikers and those who love sunbathing and swimming.
In the heart of the New Zealand Alps, the Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park is a must for hiking fans. 
If holidaying in New Zealand, the superb Bay of Islands region is located to the north of Auckland. People head there to enjoy the beautiful beaches and walk through the forests of kauri trees, which are New Zealand's national tree.
At the extreme northern end of North Island, you'll find some spectacular scenery and the starting point for an amazingly beautiful hike.
Green and richly diverse, The Catlins is full of unforgettable surprises.
For me, central Otago is one the most beautiful parts of South Island . You don't feel smothered by hoards of tourists and it's the home of Cromwell, a town that provides the perfect base for exploring the region!
A sophisticated town and ideal departure point, if you're planning to tour the stunning Otago region.
Green valleys which head towards the sea, magnificent scenic routes and unmissable landscapes during your stay in New Zealand!
A stunning fjord, not to be missed during holidays in New Zealand. Hiking fans can give the famous Milford Track a go.
The Otago Peninsula is New Zealand's leading eco-tourism destination and is bursting with natural sites to explore.
Punakaiki is mainly known for the Pancake Rocks, a spectacular site that you simply must see during your stay in New Zealand.
It's the oldest park in New Zealand and is home to several volcanoes. The Tongarino Alpine Crossing is probably the best known hike. One day and 20km of volcanic terrain to cover - a must for any nature lover.
With the white, sandy beaches around Lake Taupo on the Coromandel Peninsula, Waikato is a region not to be missed during a trip to New Zealand.  
Wanaka is a small and pleasant town located on the shores of Lake Wanaka. It is less bustling than Queenstown but, despite its more peaceful nature, there's plenty to do for anyone who might be worried about getting bored!
A popular tourist destination, mainly known for beautiful beaches, Cathedral Cove and hot pools at Hot Water Beach. A relaxing place to stay during a vacation in New Zealand.  
The most famous glacier in New Zealand, only 19 km from the sea. A popular tourist attraction during a stay in New Zealand.
A town where life is good, close to Abel Tasman and Nelson Lakes National Parks. 
An amazing geological phenomenon on the West Coast and a must see during a trip to New Zealand.
The largest lake in the country, with the Tongariro National Park mountains as its backdrop. The perfect setting for a few relaxing days during a trip to New Zealand.
The administrative and political capital, Wellington has held onto provincial charm and cultural wealth.
Nestled at the heart of a former volcano, Akaroa is an old colonial city with French and English influences.
Situated in the north of New Zealand, Bay of Islands is a mini-paradise, perfect for sun lovers and vacationers looking to unwind.
Running from Takaka to Farewell Spit, Golden Bay is a diverse landscape that will appeal toboth beach and nature lovers.
A little thermal town about 1hr 30min from Christchurch and a place where New Zealanders come to enjoy its hot springs. 
Kaikoura is a coastal town that is known for the diverse selection of marine mammals that can be seen there.
Located not far from Mount Cook, the amazing Lake Tekapo is a must see on the way to Christchurch.
Mangawhai is a charming village that sits by the coast, surrounded by green hills.
Not far from Wellington, Martinborough is a city dedicated to wine. 
Located on the west coast of the North Island, the city of New Plymouth has strong and attractive potential and its geographic location is not along the main tourist spots.
Situated on the east coast of South Island, New Zealand, Oamaru is a charming little town that has managed to preserve its historical center and is home to small businesses that have embraced its colonial theme. 

Best time to visit New Zealand

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