Sky Tower (Auckland)

Located in Oceania in the southwestern Pacific, far from major continents, New Zealand is made up of two main islands, the North and South Islands, and around 700 smaller ones scattered across the ocean. While 77% of the population (4.5 million people) lives on the North Island, the South is home to just 1.2 million. The North Island offers a fascinating mix of gushing geysers, pristine beaches, volcanic landscapes, and deep-rooted Maori culture. Auckland, a bustling and multicultural metropolis, is a great place to experience the diversity of New Zealand society. In the city center, visitors can stroll along the waterfront and ascend the iconic Sky Tower. Soaring to 328 meters, it is the tallest structure in the Southern Hemisphere and offers breathtaking panoramic views.

Auckland War Memorial Museum (Auckland)

To understand the nation’s history and its indigenous Maori culture, a visit to the Auckland War Memorial Museum is essential. Established in 1929, it is one of the oldest museums in the country. The museum’s core exhibits focus on Maori traditions and the rich flora and fauna of both main islands. There is also a significant section dedicated to New Zealand's involvement in the world wars. The museum houses one of the most extensive Maori artifact collections, including war canoes (waka taua), ceremonial items, weapons, spears, and clubs.

Waipoua Forest (Cape Reinga)

South of Cape Reinga on the west coast of the North Island lies the ancient Waipoua Forest. This protected area is home to some of the oldest living trees on Earth, the mighty kauri. These evergreen giants are endemic to New Zealand and can grow up to 50 meters tall and 5 meters in diameter, with lifespans reaching 2,000 years or more. Kauri trees create their own microclimate, with their roots preventing soil erosion and helping retain moisture in the forest. Their dense canopies form a shaded shelter for an ecosystem of ferns, mosses, epiphytes, orchids, and rimu trees, evoking a prehistoric world. Nestled in their roots, you might spot flightless birds like the kakapo and kiwi.

Waitomo Caves (Hamilton)

Just south of Hamilton, about 17 minutes from Te Kuiti, lie the remarkable limestone Waitomo Caves, famous for their glowworms. These bioluminescent insects create a mesmerizing starry-sky effect on the cave ceilings. The most popular tour is a boat ride along an underground river beneath this glowing canopy. Formed about 30 million years ago by tectonic shifts, the caves are made of limestone that was once seabed sediment. Water dripping through the rock, enriched with calcium, has slowly formed stalactites and stalagmites, some joining to form towering columns. The caves' ancient formations and twinkling lights lend them a magical, almost otherworldly atmosphere.

Tongariro National Park (North Island)

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Tongariro National Park sits in the central North Island and is famed for its dramatic volcanic terrain and pristine blue lakes. It is home to the island’s highest peak, Mount Ruapehu (2,797 m), and a crater lake with vivid turquoise waters heated by volcanic activity. The park is a haven for trekkers, especially those drawn to the famous Tongariro Alpine Crossing, a 19 km route hailed as one of the world’s best one-day hikes. The trail begins in the Mangatepopo Valley and crosses otherworldly scenery, including Mount Ngauruhoe, vast volcanic plateaus, the emerald-toned Emerald Lakes, and the deep Blue Lake. Shuttle buses run between trailheads for easy access.

Lake Tekapo (South Island)

New Zealand’s South Island is known for its rugged beauty—towering mountain ranges, glaciers, and dramatic fjords. Among its highlights is the glacial Lake Tekapo, nestled at the foot of the Southern Alps. The lake’s striking turquoise color is due to “glacial flour,” fine rock particles suspended in the water by meltwater from nearby glaciers. When sunlight hits the surface, the lake shimmers in a surreal hue. In early summer, the shoreline bursts into bloom with thousands of lupines. Lake Tekapo is a sanctuary for anyone seeking peace and a deep connection with nature. Along its shore stands the quaint Church of the Good Shepherd, perfectly blending into the scenic landscape. Around the lake, hiking and cycling trails invite outdoor enthusiasts to explore this natural haven.