12 Amazing Hidden Gems in New Zealand Only Locals Know About

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New Zealand utterly destroyed my expectations in the best possible way. While tourists flock to Queenstown and Milford Sound, I found myself slack-jawed at landscapes that felt almost otherworldly—secret beaches where dolphins swim right up to shore, geothermal pools hidden in native bush, and mountain valleys so pristine they look Photoshopped.

The artsy vibe and perfect beaches of Golden Bay had me calculating how to extend my visa, while the volcanic wonderland around Taupō showed me why Kiwis are so fiercely protective of their natural treasures. I discovered some of the best places in New Zealand by simply following hand-drawn maps from locals who lit up when sharing their favorite spots. Here are 12 incredible locations that made me understand why New Zealanders sometimes seem reluctant to tell outsiders about their country’s most magical corners.

Must-Visit Travel Destinations in New Zealand

Looking to uncover New Zealand’s hidden gems? Beyond the popular spots, the country offers plenty of lesser-known treasures waiting to be explored. Wander through the Catlins, where rugged coastlines and waterfalls await. Marvel at the Moeraki Boulders, mysterious spherical stones along the beach. 

Stroll the serene paths of Abel Tasman National Park, offering stunning coastal views. Whether you’re into nature, adventure, or tranquility, here are 12 of New Zealand’s most underrated destinations!

1. Wharariki Beach

• 📍 Location: Golden Bay, South Island
• 🏆 Best For: 🏖️ Remote beach lovers, 🦭 wildlife watchers, 📸 sunset photographers
• 📸 Top Experiences: Spotting seal pups, exploring sea caves at low tide, hiking the farm trail to the beach
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: December to February for sunny weather and evening light 🌅🏨
• Where to Stay: The Station House Motel – Cozy, family-run stay just 15 minutes from the trailhead

Wharariki Beach feels otherworldly in the best way. Just beyond the northwestern edge of South Island, this windswept beach delivers massive dunes, sea caves, and the towering Archway Islands that glow orange during sunset. The 20-minute trail from the car park crosses rolling farmland, adding to the adventure before your feet even touch sand.

Seal pups are often seen splashing in tidal pools between March and October. At low tide, you can walk right up to sea caves carved into the cliffs, but make sure to check tide times before you go. Strong winds and shifting sands create an ever-changing landscape that looks different every time.

Despite its cinematic beauty, Wharariki stays mostly off the radar due to its remote setting. Those who make the journey often find themselves alone with the waves and the wind, feeling like they’ve discovered a place few others know exists.

2. Castlepoint Lighthouse

• 📍 Location: Wairarapa Coast, North Island
• 🏆 Best For: 🌊 Coastal hikers, 🌄 sunrise seekers, 🏞️ geology fans
• 📸 Top Experiences: Walking the lighthouse track, watching sunrise, swimming in Castlepoint Lagoon
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: March to May for fewer crowds and golden morning skies 🌅
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Castlepoint Motel – Relaxed, beachside accommodation with views of the reef and lighthouse

Castlepoint Lighthouse offers one of the most iconic and dramatic coastal views in the country. Positioned on a limestone reef that juts into the Pacific Ocean, this classic white lighthouse rises above crashing waves and twisted rock formations. It’s just a 10-minute walk from the car park to the top, with rewarding views the entire way.

Mornings are especially stunning when the sun hits the cliffs and the lighthouse glows against the pastel sky. Along the way, you’ll pass fossil-rich rock and the curved shoreline of Castlepoint Lagoon, which is ideal for swimming or paddleboarding on calmer days.

The surrounding area feels untouched by heavy tourism. Pack a picnic and climb Castle Rock afterward for a sweeping 360-degree view. Few coastal destinations combine accessibility with this much natural drama. It’s a favorite among local photographers and makes for an unforgettable sunrise spot.

3. The Blue Springs

• 📍 Location: Putaruru, Waikato Region
• 🏆 Best For: 💧 Scenic walkers, 🐟 freshwater fans, 🌿 nature lovers
• 📸 Top Experiences: Hiking Te Waihou Walkway, seeing crystal-clear water, spotting trout in the stream
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: November to April for warmer weather and peak water clarity 🌤️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Putaruru Hotel – Historic art deco hotel with easy access to the walkway

The Blue Springs feel like something out of a dream. Just outside the town of Putaruru, a 4.7 km trail runs alongside the Waihou River, where spring-fed water flows so clear and blue it looks digitally enhanced. The source is so pure it supplies most of the country’s bottled water.

As you walk the trail, you’ll pass mossy riverbanks, gentle boardwalks, and submerged aquatic plants waving in slow motion beneath the surface. Large brown trout are often visible beneath your feet, drifting silently through the current.

The water stays around chilly 11°C year-round, making it more of a dipping spot than a swim zone, but it’s incredibly refreshing on a hot day. Arrive early in the morning for the clearest reflections and soft light. This is one of the most peaceful, photogenic stops you’ll find between Rotorua and Hamilton.

4. The Catlins

• 📍 Location: Southeastern South Island
• 🏆 Best For: 🌊 Coastal explorers, 🐧 wildlife spotters, 🌳 forest hikers
• 📸 Top Experiences: Visiting Nugget Point Lighthouse, walking to Cathedral Caves, watching penguins at Curio Bay
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: November to February for longer days and penguin sightings 🐧
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Catlins Mohua Park – Eco-friendly cottages in native bush near key scenic stops

The Catlins feel like a completely different world from the rest of South Island. Along this wild southeastern coastline, ancient forests meet rugged cliffs, and traffic often gives way to sheep or sea lions. You’ll find cascading waterfalls, windswept beaches, and some of the best wildlife viewing in the country.

You can start at Nugget Point, where the lighthouse overlooks jagged islets surrounded by crashing surf. From there, head to Purakaunui Falls or the Cathedral Caves, which are only accessible at low tide. You might spot yellow-eyed penguins nesting near Curio Bay or dolphins playing offshore.

Driving through the Catlins is half the fun. The roads curve through native bush, farmland, and hidden bays that most travelers never make time for. It’s best to stay at least two nights so you can explore at a relaxed pace and catch sights that shift with the tide and weather.

• Read next: New Zealand Travel Guide

5. Tongariro Alpine Crossing

• 📍 Location: Tongariro National Park, central North Island
• 🏆 Best For: 🥾 Adventure hikers, 🧪 volcano lovers, 🎥 Lord of the Rings fans
• 📸 Top Experiences: Hiking past Emerald Lakes, reaching Red Crater, exploring volcanic terrain
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: December to March for stable alpine weather and open tracks 🏞️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Skotel Alpine Resort – Comfortable lodge near the trailhead with mountain views

The Tongariro Alpine Crossing is a one-day hike that feels like an expedition across another planet. Covering nearly 20 kilometers, this trail leads through steaming vents, active craters, and the glowing Emerald Lakes that shimmer in shades of green and turquoise.

You’ll start from Mangatepopo Valley and ascend steadily toward Red Crater, the highest point on the trail. From there, the path descends past mineral lakes and through rocky alpine terrain. The landscape is constantly changing, offering surreal views at nearly every turn.

This hike is not just a physical challenge but a visual overload. Weather can shift quickly, so pack layers and prepare for wind, sun, and even snow in some cases. Booking transport in advance is essential since it’s a point-to-point hike. If you only have time for one outdoor challenge in New Zealand, this should be it.

6. Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland

• 📍 Location: Rotorua District, central North Island
• 🏆 Best For: 🌋 Geology buffs, 🎨 color chasers, 📷 surreal photographers
• 📸 Top Experiences: Seeing the Champagne Pool, watching Lady Knox Geyser erupt, walking past Devil’s Bath
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: March to May for mild weather and softer lighting ☁️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Rotorua Thermal Holiday Park – Affordable stay with thermal pools and private cabins

Wai-O-Tapu feels like a natural science experiment gone wild. The geothermal landscape is alive with steaming vents, bubbling mud pools, and mineral springs that shine in orange, green, and neon yellow. It’s one of the most visually striking places in all of New Zealand.

You’ll want to take your time walking the well-marked paths that loop past the famous Champagne Pool and otherworldly formations like Artist’s Palette and Devil’s Bath. These features formed over thousands of years, and you can smell the sulfur in the air before you even reach the gate.

Plan your visit for early morning to catch the Lady Knox Geyser erupting at 10:15 a.m. and to avoid the midday crowds. Bring water, sunscreen, and your camera—the photos here will look so unreal, people might ask if you used a filter. This spot is unforgettable for nature lovers and science geeks alike.

7. Cathedral Cove

• 📍 Location: Coromandel Peninsula, North Island
• 🏆 Best For: 🛶 Kayakers, 🏖️ beach lovers, 📸 coastal photographers
• 📸 Top Experiences: Hiking the trail to the cove, swimming under the arch, kayaking to nearby sea caves
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: January to March for clear water and calm sea conditions 🌊
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Tatahi Lodge – Laid-back boutique stay just minutes from the trailhead

Cathedral Cove feels like it was designed for a movie set, and in a way, it was because parts of The Chronicles of Narnia were filmed here. The natural limestone archway opens onto a beach with turquoise waves and white sand that rivals any tropical destination.

To reach it, you’ll take a scenic 2.5 km walk that weaves through native forest and offers plenty of lookout points along the way. The hike itself is half the experience, with coastal views and glimpses of the arch as you approach. Arrive early if you want photos without crowds.

You can also access the cove by kayak or boat from Hahei Beach, which offers a unique perspective of the cliffs and nearby sea caves. Swimming is calm and safe in the bay, making this one of the most magical beach spots on the North Island.

8. Kai Iwi Lakes

• 📍 Location: Northland Region, near Dargaville
• 🏆 Best For: 🏕️ Campers, 🏖️ beach swimmers, 🌌 stargazers
• 📸 Top Experiences: Swimming in Lake Taharoa, lakeside camping, night sky photography
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: December to February for summer water activities ☀️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Kai Iwi Lakes Resort – Quiet cabins and powered sites right near the shoreline

Kai Iwi Lakes is the kind of place locals hesitate to tell outsiders about. Just north of Dargaville, these three crystal-clear dune lakes offer that rare mix of white sand beaches and fresh water that feels almost tropical. The shallow shorelines are perfect for a lazy swim or paddleboarding.

Lake Taharoa, the largest, is the go-to for family picnics and safe swimming. But it’s the isolation that makes this place shine. With no rivers flowing in or out, the lakes stay clean and calm year-round. You’ll find scenic walking tracks, native birdlife, and hidden corners to explore.

At night, stargazing is unreal thanks to minimal light pollution. Pine Beach Campground is the best place to pitch a tent, but if you prefer a roof, there are comfortable cabins nearby. Bring food and supplies with you as once you settle in, you won’t want to leave.

9. The Forgotten World Highway

• 📍 Location: Between Taumarunui and Stratford, central North Island
• 🏆 Best For: 🚗 Roadtrippers, 🗺️ history nerds, 🏞️ off-grid explorers
• 📸 Top Experiences: Driving through Moki Tunnel, visiting Whangamomona, panoramic views at Nevin’s Lookout
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: November to April for dry, safe driving conditions 🚗
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Whangamomona Hotel – Quirky and historic stay in New Zealand’s most unusual “republic”

The Forgotten World Highway is a time capsule of rugged landscapes and Kiwi history. Between Taumarunui and Stratford, this road trip feels like a journey into another era. It’s New Zealand’s oldest heritage trail, but most tourists have never heard of it.

The highlight is Whangamomona, a self-declared republic where you can get your passport stamped and grab lunch at a historic pub. Moki Tunnel, known as the Hobbit’s Hole, cuts straight through rock and adds to the highway’s offbeat charm. You’ll also cross four saddles and gravel roads.

Along the way, lookout points like Nevin’s offer views that stretch for miles across farmland and native bush. Pack snacks, fuel up in advance, and take your time. This isn’t about the destination, it’s about every quirky, scenic, and unexpected stop in between.

10. Lake Waikaremoana

• 📍 Location: Te Urewera, northeast North Island
• 🏆 Best For: 🥾 Trekkers, 🌿 nature lovers, 🚫 off-grid travelers
• 📸 Top Experiences: Hiking the Great Walk, Lou’s Lookout trail, boating on the lake
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: January to March for warm hikes and clear views ☀️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Waikaremoana Holiday Park – Simple lakeside cabins and camping near trailheads

Lake Waikaremoana offers a true off-the-grid experience for those craving quiet and connection with nature. Surrounded by dense rainforest and managed by local iwi, this hidden lake sits inside the former Te Urewera National Park, where native birds and lush forest dominate the soundscape.

The multi-day Great Walk here winds through ridgelines and forest with constant views of the vast, blue-green water below. If you’re short on time, there are shorter trails too, like the one to Lou’s Lookout, which rewards you with a sweeping view in just an hour.

Because the area is remote, it’s smart to pack everything you need before arriving as there are few shops and no cell service. Whether you’re camping lakeside or just hiking for the day, the stillness and beauty of Waikaremoana leave a lasting impression.

11. The Chatham Islands

• 📍 Location: 800 km east of South Island
• 🏆 Best For: 🧭 Remote explorers, 🐦 wildlife watchers, 📷 landscape photographers
• 📸 Top Experiences: Seeing the Basalt Columns, visiting Pitt Island, fishing for blue cod
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: November to March for milder weather and clear skies 🌤️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Hotel Chatham – Remote island base with rustic comforts in Waitangi

The Chatham Islands are like stepping into a parallel version of New Zealand where time slows down and nature runs the show. You’ll need to fly in from Christchurch or Wellington, but the effort is worth it once you feel the island’s peaceful remoteness.

Waitangi is the main hub and a good launching point for trips to Pitt Island or the eerie Basalt Columns that resemble a natural fortress. Locals are warm and fiercely proud of their unique environment and culture, which feels even more distinct than the mainland.

Expect wild weather, dramatic coastlines, and zero crowds. Keep your schedule flexible because flights only operate when conditions allow, and it’s part of the charm. From birdwatching to exploring black sand beaches, this is as close as it gets to true isolation in New Zealand.

12. The Blue Pools of Haast Pass

• 📍 Location: Haast Pass
• 🏆 Best For: 💧 Cold plungers, 🥾 casual hikers, 📸 photographers
• 📸 Top Experiences: Walking the swing bridge, photographing the blue pools, spotting brown trout
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: December to February for warmer weather and easier trail access 🌞
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Wonderland Makarora Lodge – Cozy cabins close to Haast Pass with mountain views

Just off the Haast Pass Highway, the Blue Pools offer one of the easiest and most rewarding hikes on the South Island. A walk through native forest leads you to a suspension bridge and some of the clearest water you’ve ever seen.

The intense blue color comes from glacial rock flour suspended in the water. On sunny days, it looks like a tropical pool, even though the water rarely climbs above ice-cold. Brave swimmers can take a quick dip, but most just enjoy the view and snap photos.

Brown trout often swim lazily through the pools, and native birds provide a soundtrack along the track. It’s best to come early or late in the day to avoid bus crowds. Though just minutes from the highway, this spot feels wild and untouched.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about the Hidden Gems in New Zealand

Are you looking for more information about where to go in New Zealand? Here are some common questions (and answers) I get asked a lot about New Zealand’s most underrated places.

What is unique in New Zealand?

New Zealand stands out for its indigenous Māori culture, diverse ecosystems, and rare wildlife. The country is the only place you’ll find the kiwi bird, the Hector’s dolphin, and the Kea parrot. Its geothermal wonders, such as the bubbling mud pools of Rotorua, are unparalleled. Additionally, the blend of Polynesian traditions with modern Kiwi life creates a distinct cultural experience.

Are there unexplored parts of New Zealand?

While New Zealand is a popular tourist destination, there are still pockets that remain relatively unexplored. Regions like the Chatham Islands, parts of the West Coast on the South Island, and remote areas of the Northland offer solitude and untouched beauty. These places provide a glimpse into New Zealand’s wilder side, away from the tourist hustle.

What can only be found in NZ?

New Zealand is home to several species and experiences that are unique to its shores. The kiwi bird, a national symbol, is native only to New Zealand. The country also boasts the Southern Hemisphere’s only alpine parrot, the Kea. In terms of experiences, the Māori cultural performances, traditional hāngi feasts, and certain geothermal phenomena like the bubbling mud pools of Rotorua are distinctively Kiwi.

What are 5 things New Zealand is well known for?

New Zealand, a land of contrasts and wonder, is globally recognized for:

1. Landscapes: From the majestic fjords of Milford Sound to the enchanting hills of the Shire in Hobbiton, its natural beauty is unmatched.
2. The All Blacks: Beyond being a world-class rugby team, their iconic haka performance embodies the spirit and culture of the nation.
3. Film Locations: The country served as the picturesque backdrop for epic film trilogies like “The Lord of the Rings” and “The Hobbit.”
4. Māori Heritage: Rich in legends and traditions, the Māori culture offers insights into the nation’s history and heart.
5. Adventure Hub: Queenstown, with its plethora of adrenaline-pumping activities, has rightfully earned its title as the ‘Adventure Capital of the World’.

Where are the best hidden gems in New Zealand?

New Zealand is brimming with hidden treasures waiting to be discovered. From the serene Blue Pools of Haast Pass to the historical remnants of Karangahake Gorge, there’s no shortage of off-the-beaten-path places in New Zealand. Exploring places like the Chatham Islands or the lesser-known trails of Mount Aspiring National Park can also lead to unforgettable experiences.

What underrated New Zealand destinations should I add to my bucket list?

While popular spots like Queenstown and Rotorua are must-visits, consider venturing to underrated destinations like the Kai Iwi Lakes or the Forgotten World Highway. These places offer a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural richness, providing a more intimate experience of New Zealand’s diverse landscapes.

What’s a must-visit spot that’s still under the radar in New Zealand?

If you’re on the hunt for the coolest places to go in New Zealand that aren’t swamped with tourists, then you’ve got to check out the Catlins. Located on the southeastern coast of the South Island, the Catlins is a blend of dense rainforests, cascading waterfalls, and rugged coastlines. It’s where you can spot rare yellow-eyed penguins at dusk or discover hidden gems like Jack’s Blowhole. A journey here feels like stepping into a wild, untouched paradise.

Final Thoughts on New Zealand’s Hidden Gems

New Zealand, often celebrated for its iconic landscapes and bustling tourist hubs, has so much more up its sleeve. It’s in the quiet whispers of the forests, the untouched corners of its islands, and the hidden nooks that you find the real magic. For those willing to venture New Zealand off the beaten path, a world of uncharted beauty awaits.

From the ethereal blue of the Haast Pass pools to the historical tales of Karangahake Gorge, this country is brimming with secrets. And while destinations like Queenstown and Rotorua are undeniably captivating, there’s an unmatched thrill in discovering places not many have tread.

So, as you plan your next Kiwi adventure, challenge the norm. Dive deep, explore those secret spots, and let New Zealand’s hidden gems leave an indelible mark on your traveler’s heart. Because here, every detour is a story, every hidden spot a memory in the making.