An extraordinary land, overflowing with unparalleled beauty and unprecedented adventure; New Zealand is home to an almost never-ending list of amazing things to do, worthy of a place on everyone’s bucket list. If you’re the type of explorer who only wants the best of the best; check out these seven incredible things to add onto your New Zealand bucket list.
Top 7 Things to Add to Your New Zealand Bucket List
1. Bungee jump
New Zealand is so famous for bungee jumping because it was the first country in the world to commercialise it. The Kawarau Suspension Bridge outside Queenstown was the starting point and provides you with the ultimate adrenaline rush as you plummet 134 metres to the ground.
2. See the Southern Lights
The Southern Lights (Aurora Australis) are every bit as spectacular as the Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis) and New Zealand is one of the few places in the world where you can see them. Your best bet to spot them is to go as far south as you can between March and September and hope for both a clear night and geomagnetic storm.
Aurora Australis, the Southern Lights
3. Cage dive with sharks
Put your bravery to the test by climbing inside a metal cage and being submerged in shark-infested waters! Off the coast of Stewart Island you can get the close up shot you’ve always dreamed of while frenzies of Great Whites swim just centimetres away from you.
4. Explore Milford Sound
Described as “The eighth wonder of the world” by Rudyard Kipling, Milford Sound in Fiordland National Park is a place so beautiful you’ll never believe it. From its immensely towering peaks and thundering waterfalls to fascinating wildlife and reflective waterbeds; this natural gem really is one of the most captivating places on the planet.
Milford Sound: Photo (c) albertpalenshoots
5. Visit Hobbiton
Hobbiton Movie Set Tour
Even if you’re not a big fan of The Hobbit or Lord of the Rings, you can’t help but be charmed by Hobbiton and add it to your New Zealand bucket list. The original movie set for the famous films, Hobbiton lets you forget reality for just a little while and immerse yourself in a real Middle-earth experience.
6. Go whale watching
Kaikoura is the best place to spot whales at any time of year in New Zealand. Well-known for its gorgeous location, with a pristine rugged coastline and snow-dusted mountain peaks; this wildlife hotspot provides the perfect backdrop for admiring schools of Giant Sperm Whales.
Humpback Whale, Kaikoura Coast
7. Visit Waitomo Caves
Set in the heart of North Island, the Waitomo Caves are an ancient underground world home to one of the most spectacular glow worm grottoes in the world. Here you can travel throughout the cave network by boat; with the only guiding light coming from the thousands of individual glow worms clinging to the ceiling.
Waitomo Glow Worm Caves, #NewZealand. Photo: 2il org /