Favourite winter places to visit in New Zealand

There are many wonderful places to visit in New Zealand during the cooler months. Here’s our top 5 picks to add to your next roadie!

1. Rotorua

Rotorua is situated in North Island and is renowned for its Maori cultural heritage and geothermal pools. These hot springs also feature mud pools and offer various spa treatments and therapies to really relax, unwind and escape the cold. A beautiful part of visiting Rotorua is the Waimangu Volcanic Valley, where you can check out the crater walkways and explore through the Steaming Cliffs. For those adventure travellers, you can’t miss the zipline through the prehistoric native forest. Not only will it be a great experience, but the images would be amazing! Another favourite is the mountain biking experience at the Whakarewarewa Forest.

2. Queenstown

For all the thrill seekers, take a trip to Queenstown. This is the adventure capital of the world and the ultimate destination to bring out your wild side, offering a multitude of fun activities such as skiing, skydiving and even jet-boating. Queenstown has a picturesque landscape and will be an amazing way to see more of New Zealand in one hit.

3. Mount Cook

There are so many incredible things to do in Mount Cook! The region features the Hooker Valley track as well as the Blue Lakes and Tasman Glacier View, both of which are iconic locations and an absolute must-see. There is also a walk called Kea Point Walk, which is another great way to get in your steps whilst connecting with the beauty of the land. Mount Cook needs to be on the top of every traveller’s bucket list.

4. Zealandia

Zealandia features an eco-sanctuary that is filled with exciting things to do both day and night. Zealandia is perfect for those who love history, nature, wildlife or just general sightseeing. There are bird sanctuaries, reptile and insect enclosures as well as night tours that let you see the nocturnal creatures come out to play. The wildlife surrounding this area is one of a kind and adds a unique touch to the experience. This is a place the kids will love too!

5. Tamaki Maori Village

The Maori Village is filled with ancient history, culture and tradition. It is an award-winning cultural attraction in New Zealand. There is a 5-minute walk to town and only a 12km drive South to Tamaki Maori Village. This is an immersive experience and will allow you to take a step back in time to learn more about Maori culture. Overall, this is a highly educational and breathtaking place to visit.