1. Stewart Island / Rakiura
Often called New Zealand’s “third island,” Stewart Island is a tranquil haven for nature lovers. Over 85% of the island is protected as Rakiura National Park, offering untouched landscapes of native bush, sweeping beaches, and rugged coastlines. It’s also one of the best places in the world to spot the elusive kiwi bird in the wild. Visitors can explore coastal walking tracks, kayak through sheltered bays, or stargaze under some of the darkest skies on Earth. Stewart Island is where wilderness and serenity meet, delivering a truly off-the-beaten-path experience.
Rakiura National Park - 85% of the island is preserved
One of the best places to see wild kiwi
Dark Sky Sanctuary with world-class stargazing
Coastal walking tracks and scenic bays
Untouched forests and peaceful isolation
2. Kaikōura, South Island
Perched between mountains and ocean, Kaikōura is a destination where wildlife and dramatic landscapes collide. It’s world-renowned for marine encounters, from sperm whales and dusky dolphins to fur seals basking on rocky shores. Beyond its wildlife, Kaikōura offers stunning coastal walks, fresh crayfish (for which the town is named), and panoramic views of the Seaward Kaikōura Range. It’s a rare place where you can watch whales in the morning, hike alpine trails in the afternoon, and dine on freshly caught seafood at sunset.
Whale-watching capital of New Zealand
Dusky dolphins, fur seals, and albatross spotting
Kaikōura Peninsula Walkway with ocean views
Famous for local crayfish and seafood
Mountains-meet-sea scenery
3. Marlborough Sounds, South Island
A maze of sunken valleys and emerald-green waters, Marlborough Sounds is one of New Zealand’s most enchanting coastal regions. Its sheltered bays, secluded beaches, and rich marine life make it ideal for sailing, kayaking, and dolphin encounters. The Queen Charlotte Track provides hikers and bikers with sweeping views across the sounds, while visitors can also indulge in the region’s world-class Sauvignon Blanc wines. With its combination of water, wilderness, and wine, Marlborough Sounds is a true slice of paradise.
Scenic waterways and hidden bays
Queen Charlotte Track for hiking and biking
Dolphin and birdlife encounters
Sailing and kayaking opportunities
The famous Marlborough wine region is nearby
4. Franz Josef Glacier, South Island
One of the few glaciers in the world that descends into a temperate rainforest, Franz Josef Glacier is a breathtaking natural wonder. Visitors can join guided hikes onto the ice, explore blue crevasses, or take scenic helicopter flights for panoramic views of the Southern Alps. The nearby Franz Josef village offers hot pools, perfect for unwinding after an adventure. This rare blend of glacier, rainforest, and ocean nearby makes it one of New Zealand’s most extraordinary landscapes.
Guided glacier walks and heli-hikes
Scenic flights over icefields and peaks
Nearby Franz Josef Glacier Hot Pools
Rainforest, mountains, and coastline all in one region
Rare accessible glacier environment
5. Wellington, North Island
Often described as “the coolest little capital in the world,” Wellington is a city that blends culture, creativity, and natural beauty. Nestled between hills and harbour, it’s home to Te Papa Tongarewa, New Zealand’s national museum, along with a thriving film industry known as the hub of “Wellywood.” Its vibrant food and coffee scene rivals that of any major city, while the waterfront and surrounding hills offer scenic walks and lookout points. Compact and full of character, Wellington is a cultural highlight of any New Zealand journey.
Te Papa Tongarewa: national museum and cultural hub
Hub of New Zealand’s film industry (“Wellywood”)
World-class coffee and food culture
Scenic waterfront and hilltop viewpoints
Festivals, arts, and vibrant nightlife
6. Coromandel Peninsula, North Island
Famous for its golden beaches and laid-back vibe, the Coromandel Peninsula is a coastal paradise. Its crown jewel is Cathedral Cove, a stunning sea arch framed by white sand and turquoise waters, accessible by foot, boat, or kayak. Nearby, Hot Water Beach offers a unique experience, digging your thermal spa in the sand during low tide. Inland, the Coromandel ranges are covered with lush native forest, perfect for hiking and waterfall chasing. The Coromandel combines relaxation, adventure, and natural beauty in one unforgettable destination.
Cathedral Cove - iconic sea arch and beaches
Hot Water Beach - natural thermal pools in the sand
Coastal walks and lush native bush trails
Waterfalls and hidden swimming holes
Relaxed, beach-town atmosphere