12 PRETTIEST Places in New Zealand to Visit in 2025

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I still can’t get over New Zealand. After road-tripping both islands and hiking through landscapes that looked like someone painted them into existence, I’ve never been more blown away by a country. Every time I thought I’d seen the most incredible view, New Zealand served up something even more spectacular. I’m talking turquoise glacial lakes, snow capped peaks, and geothermal pools in colors I didn’t know existed in nature.

These are the most beautiful places to visit in New Zealand that made my jaw hit the floor. Look, I’m not usually someone who throws around words like “magical,” but these 12 spots? They’ll make you understand why this country keeps showing up in fantasy films. Trust me on this one.

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#1 tip to save money on your trip to New Zealand

Let’s first cover some quick tips that will save you time and money on your Kiwi adventure.

• FLYING: If you haven’t already, I HIGHLY recommend signing up for Scott’s Cheap Flights (now called Going). Last summer, I flew to Auckland for just $500 roundtrip thanks to their email alerts. The premium and elite version are even better!
• Food: Save by buying meals or ingredients from supermarkets like Pak’nSave, Countdown, and New World. Local markets offer great value for fresh produce and specialty items. Many cafes offer cabinet food at half price near closing time, and fish and chip shops provide hearty meals for NZ$10-15.
• Transport: I recommend getting an AT HOP card in Auckland or Snapper in Wellington for public transport savings. To explore between cities, book intercity buses in advance. I’ve found fares as low as NZ$1 on their special deals. If you’re planning to do lots of activities, check BookMe.co.nz for discounted tickets.

New Zealand may have a reputation for being one of the most expensive countries in the Pacific. With these money-saving strategies, you can explore this stunning country at a much better value. Now, without further ado, let’s jump into the best places to visit in New Zealand:

1. Fiordland National Park

• 📍 Location: South Island, New Zealand
• 🏆 Best For: 🏞️ Epic landscapes, 🚤 scenic cruises, 🥾 multi-day treks
• 📸 Top Experiences: Cruising through Milford Sound, hiking the Routeburn Track, spotting glowworms in Te Anau caves
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: November to April for mild weather and clear views 🌤️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Distinction Te Anau Hotel & Villas – Lakeside hotel with garden rooms near the Fiordland gateway

Fiordland National Park is nature turned up to eleven. Towering granite peaks rise from glacier-carved fjords, waterfalls tumble down sheer cliffs, and clouds drift through valleys like smoke. It’s one of the most dramatic landscapes in the Southern Hemisphere, and easily one of New Zealand’s crown jewels.

The most famous spot here is Milford Sound, a deep fjord best seen by boat. Cruises glide past Mitre Peak and dramatic waterfalls, especially after rain. Nearby, Doubtful Sound offers a quieter alternative with even more remote vibes. Both are reachable from the base town of Te Anau.

For hikers, the Routeburn, Kepler, and Milford Tracks offer multi-day treks through alpine meadows and beech forests. You don’t need to be a hardcore adventurer to enjoy the park, many short trails and lookout points already offer views that feel like you’ve stepped into a fantasy movie.

2. Bay of Islands

• 📍 Location: North Island, New Zealand
• 🏆 Best For: ⛵ Sailing fans, 🐬 marine wildlife lovers, 🌞 beach seekers
• 📸 Top Experiences: Dolphin watching cruises, visiting the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, relaxing in Paihia
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: December to March for sunny beach weather and calm seas 🌞
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Paihia Beach Resort & Spa – Stylish beachfront hotel with ocean views and outdoor pools

The Bay of Islands feels like a postcard come to life. This subtropical region is made up of more than 140 islands, each surrounded by turquoise waters and white sand coves. It’s the kind of place where you can spend the day cruising between islands, snorkeling in quiet bays, or watching dolphins swim alongside the boat.

Paihia is the main hub and a great launch point for boat tours and cultural sites. A visit to the Waitangi Treaty Grounds gives insight into New Zealand’s founding history, while nearby Russell offers quaint streets and a peaceful harbor vibe. The entire area is easy to explore by ferry or day trip.

You’ll find a good mix of luxury stays, cozy B&Bs, and seafood spots overlooking the water. For travelers wanting sun, sea, and a slower pace, this region offers a slice of coastal paradise just hours from Auckland.

3. Rotorua

• 📍 Location: North Island, New Zealand
• 🏆 Best For: 🌋 Geothermal fans, 💧 spa lovers, 🪵 Māori culture explorers
• 📸 Top Experiences: Soaking in Polynesian Spa, exploring Wai-O-Tapu, watching cultural performances at Te Puia
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: March to May for fewer crowds and crisp autumn weather 🍂
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Regent of Rotorua – Modern boutique hotel with heated pool and central location

Rotorua is one of New Zealand’s most unique destinations, where bubbling mud pools and steaming geysers sit right next to elegant spas and cultural sites. The smell of sulfur might hit first, but it’s all part of what makes this geothermal wonderland a pretty unforgettable experience.

Visitors can relax in natural hot springs, take guided walks through otherworldly thermal parks like Wai-O-Tapu, or witness the famous Pohutu Geyser erupt. The city is also one of the best places to experience Māori culture through storytelling, performances, and hangi feasts.

It’s not just about what’s underground. Rotorua has mountain biking trails, redwood forests, and lakes perfect for kayaking or paddleboarding. The energy here feels active and alive, offering something for both wellness travelers and thrill seekers looking for a base with character.

4. Queenstown

• 📍 Location: South Island, New Zealand
• 🏆 Best For: 🧗 Adventure junkies, 🛶 lake lovers, ⛷️ winter sports fans
• 📸 Top Experiences: Riding the Skyline Gondola, jet boating on Shotover River, day trip to Glenorchy
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: December to February for summer hikes and lake activities ☀️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Kamana Lakehouse – Stylish hillside hotel with panoramic views over Lake Wakatipu

Queenstown is often called the adventure capital of New Zealand, and it earns that title with ease. From skydiving to bungee jumping to jet boating through canyons, there’s no shortage of adrenaline-fueled activities. But the beauty of this lakeside town goes beyond just thrills.

Set on the shores of Lake Wakatipu and surrounded by the Remarkables mountain range, Queenstown also delivers peaceful nature and postcard views. You can ride the gondola up for panoramic views, sip wine at nearby Gibbston Valley vineyards, or take scenic drives to places like Arrowtown or Glenorchy.

In winter, the area transforms into a hub for skiing and snowboarding with several slopes nearby. The town itself has a fun, youthful vibe with restaurants, pubs, and lakeside walks that stay lively year-round. It’s a place where you can push your limits one day and relax with a view the next.

5. Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park

• 📍 Location: South Island, New Zealand
• 🏆 Best For: 🏔️ Alpine views, 🌌 stargazers, 🥾 hiking enthusiasts
• 📸 Top Experiences: Hiking the Hooker Valley Track, stargazing in the Dark Sky Reserve, helicopter tours over glaciers
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: November to March for clear skies and scenic hiking trails 🌤️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Aoraki Court Motel – Comfortable mountain-view suites near park trailheads

Aoraki / Mount Cook is the tallest mountain in New Zealand, and the national park surrounding it is just as impressive. Sharp peaks, blue glacier lakes, and winding alpine trails dominate the landscape, making this one of the most awe-inspiring places in the country.

The Hooker Valley Track is one of the best day hikes in New Zealand, leading you across swing bridges and up to a glacier-fed lake with Mount Cook in the background. The Tasman Glacier viewpoint and Kea Point Track also offer rewarding views with minimal effort required.

At night, the area becomes part of the Aoraki Mackenzie Dark Sky Reserve, where you can see constellations, planets, and the Milky Way with perfect clarity. It’s a dream for photographers and stargazers alike. The whole region feels remote in the best way, where nature is the main focus and silence comes with the scenery.

6. Abel Tasman National Park

• 📍 Location: South Island, New Zealand
• 🏆 Best For: 🥾 Coastal hikers, 🛶 kayakers, 🏖️ beach lovers
• 📸 Top Experiences: Walking the Abel Tasman Coast Track, kayaking through bays, swimming at Anchorage Beach
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: December to March for dry trails and warm beach days ☀️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: The Barn Cabins & Camping – Relaxed eco-stay near the park entrance with nature views

Abel Tasman is the kind of place that feels like a tropical escape tucked into New Zealand’s South Island. The park’s coastline is made up of golden beaches, turquoise waters, and forested walking tracks that wind right along the sea. It’s one of the country’s most accessible national parks and one of the most photogenic.

The Abel Tasman Coast Track is a multi-day Great Walk, but you can also do shorter sections or hop between bays by water taxi. Kayaking is huge here too, where you can glide past sea caves, spot fur seals on Tonga Island, and pull up on quiet beaches for a swim or picnic.

Most visitors base themselves in Marahau or Kaiteriteri, small towns at the park’s edge that offer easy access to trailheads and boat tours. Abel Tasman delivers a chill, outdoorsy vibe for travelers who want scenic beauty without too much elevation gain.

7. Tongariro National Park

• 📍 Location: North Island, New Zealand
• 🏆 Best For: 🌋 Volcano trekkers, 🎮 film fans, 🥾 serious hikers
• 📸 Top Experiences: Completing the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, seeing Mount Ngauruhoe, exploring Taranaki Falls
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: November to April for safe hiking conditions and clear views 🌄
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Skotel Alpine Resort – Mountain lodge inside the park with trail access and snowy views

Tongariro National Park is rugged, dramatic, and filled with volcanic terrain that feels otherworldly. It’s New Zealand’s oldest national park and a dual UNESCO World Heritage Site for both its natural and cultural significance. The landscape includes craters, emerald lakes, and active volcanoes that you can hike around in a single day.

The star attraction here is the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, often called one of the best one-day hikes in the world. The 12-mile route passes steaming vents, colorful lakes, and panoramic ridgelines with sweeping views. Mount Ngauruhoe, which doubled as Mount Doom in The Lord of the Rings, adds an epic cinematic layer.

While the hike is demanding, it’s also extremely rewarding. The area has shorter walks too, like Taranaki Falls or Silica Rapids, for those not ready for a full-day trek. It’s a must-visit for any traveler seeking New Zealand’s wilder side.

8. Kaikoura

• 📍 Location: South Island, New Zealand
• 🏆 Best For: 🐋 Wildlife lovers, 🏞️ coastal hikers, 🐟 seafood fans
• 📸 Top Experiences: Whale watching tours, walking the Kaikoura Peninsula Track, eating fresh crayfish at roadside stalls
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: June to August for peak whale sightings and crisp coastal air 🐳
• 🏨 Where to Stay: The White Morph – Beachfront hotel with sea-view rooms and easy access to marine tours

Kaikoura is a coastal gem where snow-capped mountains meet the sea and marine life is the main event. The town is best known for its whale watching tours, where you can spot sperm whales, dusky dolphins, and even orcas depending on the season. Tours leave daily, and the chances of a sighting are incredibly high.

The Kaikoura Peninsula Walkway offers sweeping views of the coastline and leads past seal colonies lounging on the rocks. It’s a peaceful place for a morning hike or sunset stroll. Inland, the Seaward Kaikoura Range adds dramatic elevation to the scenery, creating a backdrop that feels both rugged and serene.

After a day on the water or trail, grab fresh seafood from roadside shacks. Crayfish is the local favorite, and it definitely lives up to the hype. Kaikoura blends small-town charm with world-class nature experiences, making it one of the South Island’s most memorable stops.

9. Lake Tekapo

• 📍 Location: South Island, New Zealand
• 🏆 Best For: 🌌 Stargazers, ⛪ photo lovers, 🌸 seasonal travelers
• 📸 Top Experiences: Stargazing at Mount John Observatory, photographing Church of the Good Shepherd, seeing lupins bloom by the lake
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: November to January for blooming lupins and clear night skies 🌸
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Peppers Bluewater Resort – Modern suites with lake and mountain views near Tekapo town center

Lake Tekapo is famous for its surreal turquoise water, created by glacial rock flour that reflects sunlight in bright pastel tones. The lake sits in the middle of the Mackenzie Basin, surrounded by rolling hills and snow-dusted peaks that make the whole place feel dreamlike.

One of the most iconic sights here is the Church of the Good Shepherd, a small stone chapel perched at the water’s edge. It’s a favorite spot for sunrise photos and stargazing after dark. This region is part of the Aoraki Mackenzie Dark Sky Reserve, so the views at night are just as stunning as those in the day.

In spring and early summer, lupins bloom along the lakeshore in shades of purple, pink, and blue. The combination of wildflowers, alpine skies, and peaceful lakefront paths gives Lake Tekapo a magical quality that’s hard to forget.

10. Napier

• 📍 Location: North Island, New Zealand
• 🏆 Best For: 🏛️ Architecture buffs, 🍷 wine lovers, 🎨 art fans
• 📸 Top Experiences: Touring Art Deco buildings, wine tasting in Hawke’s Bay, visiting the MTG Hawke’s Bay museum
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: February to April for harvest season and Art Deco events 🍇
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Art Deco Masonic Hotel – Historic hotel in the heart of Napier with vintage flair and ocean views

Napier stands out from every other New Zealand city thanks to its vibrant Art Deco style. After a devastating earthquake in 1931, the town was rebuilt in bold, geometric designs that still line the streets today. It feels like stepping back into the 1930s, complete with palm trees, vintage cars, and pastel buildings.

One of the best ways to explore is on foot. Guided or self-led Art Deco walks let you admire restored facades, retro signs, and ornate details around every corner. The city also has a strong arts scene, with galleries, museums, and murals tucked between cafés and boutique shops.

Napier is part of the Hawke’s Bay wine region, which means excellent vineyards and cellar doors are just a short drive away. Pair a day of sightseeing with a glass of Syrah or Chardonnay, and you’ll quickly see why this seaside town draws visitors year after year.

11. The Coromandel Peninsula

• 📍 Location: North Island, New Zealand
• 🏆 Best For: 🏖️ Beach lovers, 🪨 rock formation fans, 🥾 casual hikers
• 📸 Top Experiences: Digging your own spa at Hot Water Beach, walking to Cathedral Cove, hiking the Pinnacles Track
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: December to March for beach access and coastal hikes ☀️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Grand Mercure Puka Park Resort – Forest-view lodge with private chalets near Pauanui Beach

The Coromandel Peninsula is where dramatic cliffs, golden beaches, and lush forest trails come together in one relaxed coastal escape. It’s a favorite holiday destination for both locals and travelers who want a laid-back vibe with standout scenery.

At Hot Water Beach, you can dig into the sand during low tide and create your own natural hot pool. A short drive away, Cathedral Cove impresses with its arched limestone entrance and clear waters perfect for kayaking or snorkeling. Both spots are photogenic and popular, so visiting early in the day helps avoid the crowds.

Inland, the Pinnacles Track offers an overnight hiking option with panoramic views across the peninsula. The towns of Whitianga and Hahei are great home bases with easy access to beaches, cafés, and scenic drives. The Coromandel is ideal for those wanting a slower, nature-focused itinerary without going too far off the grid.

12. Dunedin

• 📍 Location: South Island, New Zealand
• 🏆 Best For: 🏰 History fans, 🦭 wildlife watchers, 🎓 student town explorers
• 📸 Top Experiences: Touring Larnach Castle, spotting albatross at Taiaroa Head, walking the streets of the historic city center
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: October to April for wildlife sightings and comfortable weather 🐧
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Fable Dunedin – Elegant boutique hotel in a restored Victorian building near the city’s best sights

Dunedin is a South Island city with Scottish roots and a distinct character that sets it apart. The architecture alone is worth the visit, with Victorian and Edwardian buildings scattered throughout the compact center. Larnach Castle, the only castle in New Zealand, sits on a hilltop just outside the city and adds to the historic charm.

This coastal town is also a gateway to some of New Zealand’s rarest wildlife. The Otago Peninsula is one of the best places to see yellow-eyed penguins, royal albatross, and sea lions in their natural habitat. Wildlife cruises and eco-tours leave regularly from the harbor.

Back in town, Dunedin is lively thanks to its large student population and street art culture. Cafés, bookstores, and pubs fill the alleys, while scenic coastal drives stretch out just beyond the city. It’s a place where history and nature come together in a surprisingly cool way.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Visiting the Beautiful Places in New Zealand

Looking to broaden your knowledge about the most scenic spots in New Zealand? Here are some common questions I frequently answer about the best New Zealand attractions and activities.

What is the best time to visit New Zealand?

The best time to visit New Zealand depends on what you want to do. For warmer weather, visit during the summer months (December to February). However, if you want to enjoy winter sports like skiing or snowboarding, the best time to visit would be during winter (June to August).

Where should I go for my first time in New Zealand?

For a first-time visitor to New Zealand, experiencing a mix of the country’s stunning landscapes, vibrant cities, and unique Maori culture is essential. Here’s a suggested itinerary:

1. Auckland: Start in New Zealand’s largest city, Auckland, known for its beautiful harbor and modern architecture. Visit the Sky Tower for panoramic views and take a ferry to nearby Waiheke Island for wine tasting.
2. Rotorua: Dive into Maori culture in Rotorua, where you can visit a Maori village, experience traditional performances, and explore geothermal wonders like hot springs and bubbling mud pools.
3. Hobbiton: For “Lord of the Rings” fans, a tour of the Hobbiton Movie Set in Matamata is a must-do.
4. Wellington: Visit the capital city, known for its arts scene, trendy cafes, and the impressive Te Papa Museum.
5. Nelson and Abel Tasman National Park: Explore golden beaches, clear waters, and coastal hikes in this beautiful region at the northern tip of the South Island.
6. Queenstown: The adventure capital of the world offers thrilling activities like bungee jumping, jet boating, and skiing in winter. Explore nearby Fiordland National Park, home to the breathtaking Milford Sound.
7. Dunedin: Known for its Scottish heritage, wildlife, and unique landscapes, Dunedin offers a rich cultural experience.
8. Christchurch: Explore the South Island’s largest city, with its beautiful gardens and a blend of traditional English architecture and innovative rebuilding projects following the 2011 earthquake.
9. Glacier Country: Visit Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers, where you can take guided glacier walks or a scenic helicopter ride.
10. Mount Cook National Park: Home to New Zealand’s highest peak, this area offers incredible hiking and stargazing opportunities.

The country’s two main islands, the North and South Islands, each have distinct landscapes and attractions. Depending on your interests and the length of your trip, you can explore both or focus on one.

How many days are needed to explore New Zealand?

New Zealand has so much to offer that even a few weeks might not seem enough! However, a well-planned itinerary for 10 to 14 days can cover many of the country’s major attractions.

Is New Zealand good for a road trip?

Absolutely! With its stunning landscapes and well-maintained roads, New Zealand is perfect for road trips. Both the North and South Islands have plenty of scenic routes that take you through some of the country’s most beautiful areas.

Is New Zealand expensive to visit?

New Zealand can be more expensive than other countries due to its remote location. Costs for accommodation, food, and activities can add up. However, with careful planning and budgeting, it is possible to explore the country without breaking the bank.

Which New Zealand island is better for tourists?

Both the North and South Islands of New Zealand offer incredible experiences for tourists, and the “better” island depends on what you’re looking for in your trip. Here’s a breakdown to help you decide:

North Island:

• Cultural Experiences: The North Island is known for its rich Maori culture. Places like Rotorua offer immersive experiences in Maori history, art, and traditions.
• Cities: If you’re interested in urban experiences, Auckland and Wellington offer vibrant city life, with great dining, shopping, and cultural attractions.
• Beaches: The North Island boasts beautiful beaches, such as those in the Bay of Islands, and excellent surfing spots like Raglan.
• Geothermal Wonders: Rotorua and Taupo are known for their unique geothermal activity, including hot springs and bubbling mud pools.
• Hobbiton: Fans of “The Lord of the Rings” will want to visit the Hobbiton Movie Set in Matamata.

South Island:

• Stunning Landscapes: The South Island is renowned for its breathtaking natural scenery, from the Southern Alps to the fjords of Fiordland.
• Outdoor Adventures: Queenstown, known as the adventure capital of the world, offers thrilling activities like bungee jumping, jet boating, and skiing in winter.
• Wildlife: Encounter marine wildlife such as dolphins, seals, and penguins on the Otago Peninsula.
• Glaciers: Visit Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers, unique opportunities to explore glacial landscapes.
• Wine Regions: Enjoy some of the world’s best Sauvignon Blanc in Marlborough, and explore other renowned wine regions.

Conclusion about the North vs. South Islands:

• If you’re interested in cultural experiences, bustling cities, and beautiful beaches, the North Island may be more appealing.
• If you’re drawn to stunning landscapes, outdoor adventures, and wildlife, the South Island might be your choice.

For the most comprehensive experience, a trip that includes both islands would be ideal, as each has unique and complementary attractions. Many travelers opt to divide their time between the two to experience all that New Zealand has to offer.

Can I see penguins in New Zealand?

Yes, New Zealand is home to several species of penguins. They can be spotted throughout the country, particularly in places like Dunedin, the Banks Peninsula, and Stewart Island.

Which part of New Zealand is the prettiest?

New Zealand’s beauty is incredibly diverse. This makes it hard to single out one area as the “prettiest”. However, many visitors are particularly taken with the dramatic landscapes of the South Island. This includes Fiordland National Park and the Queenstown region.

What is New Zealand’s most beautiful town?

New Zealand is full of charming towns, each with its unique attractions. Queenstown is often hailed as one of the most beautiful towns, given its stunning location on Lake Wakatipu and surrounded by towering mountains. However, places like Wanaka, Nelson, and the coastal town of Kaikoura also captivate visitors with their natural beauty and charm.

Final Thoughts on Visiting Beautiful Places in New Zealand

New Zealand, with its majestic landscapes, captivating wildlife, and rich Maori heritage, is undeniably one of the most beautiful countries on Earth. Its allure lies in its diverse offerings, from the fiery geysers of Rotorua to the serene beaches of The Coromandel Peninsula, the snow-capped peaks of Mount Cook to the Scottish heritage of Dunedin.

Choosing the best places to visit in New Zealand is a daunting task, as every region holds its unique charm and attractions. However, this guide has aimed to showcase the creme de la creme of New Zealand’s breathtaking scenery and cultural experiences, promising memorable journeys for every traveler.

So whether you’re an adrenaline junkie looking to take on Queenstown’s adventurous pursuits, a wildlife enthusiast hoping to meet the residents of Kaikoura, or a wine connoisseur seeking the flavors of Marlborough, New Zealand has it all.

No matter where you go in this spectacular country, you are bound to be greeted with awe-inspiring landscapes and experiences that are as unforgettable as they are diverse. As you embark on your journey of visiting New Zealand, may every sight inspire, every mountain invigorate, and every adventure deepen your appreciation for this stunning corner of the world.