Top 5 breathtaking locations to visit in New Zealand

A visit to New Zealand will expose you to some of the most beautiful – and geographically diverse – landscapes out there. From rocky alpine terrains to stunningly pristine beaches, here are 5 exquisite destinations you don’t want to miss.

1. Fiordland National Park and Milford Sound, South Island

A World Heritage Site, Fiordland National Park protects some of the most spectacular scenery in the country. Glaciers sculpted this dramatic landscape, carving the famous fjords of Milford, Dusky, and Doubtful Sounds. Visitors here can explore gushing cascades, offshore islands, virgin rain forests, vast lakes, and craggy mountain peaks.

Not surprisingly, the park is a haven for hikers with some of the country's best hiking, including the famous Milford Track. Sea kayaking is a popular way to explore the fjords, and visitors can also enjoy a scenic flight over the park for a bird's-eye view of its staggering beauty.

2. Piha Beach

Popular among surfers, landscape photographers and holidaying Aucklanders not wanting to delve too far out of the city, Piha Beach is definitely one of those places that has something for everyone. Black sands and a rugged appearance are a strong part of this beach’s appeal. The Lion Rock, a volcanic monolith with a war memorial and unique Māori carvings, is a favourite photo spot for visiting shutterbugs. 

3. Muriwai Beach, Auckland

In just a 40-minute drive from Auckland’s city centre you’ll find yourself on the west coast. Massive black sand dunes, amazing surf and killer sunsets make this one of the best places to visit in New Zealand’s biggest city. Visit on a stormy day and see why it’s earned its nickname of the Wild West Coast. Don’t forget to check out the gannet colony that overlooks two stunning bays and has hundreds of huge birds flying right over your head! Here you can hire blokarts and bikes and ride around the seaside paths, or even test out the waves at the local surf school. The Muriwai Beach Loop trail takes you right through the sand dunes, across the beach and through a walkway along the Coast Road (it takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes to complete).

4. Queenstown, South Island

Snuggled between the shores of shimmering Lake Wakatipu and the snowy peaks of the Remarkables, Queenstown is New Zealand's adventure capital and one of the country's top destinations for international visitors. Bungee jumping, jet boating, white water rafting, paragliding, rock climbing, mountain biking, and downhill skiing are just some of the adrenaline-fueled things to do here, and visitors can explore the stunning alpine scenery on the excellent network of hiking trails.

5. Lake Tekapo

During the day, Lake Tekapo dazzles with its bright blue glacial waters. At night, the area becomes a stargazing haven: the township, its stunning lake and the nearby Mt St John Observatory are all part of the South Island’s International Dark Sky Reserve. During spring, you’ve got another picturesque bonus: the lupins that colour the roadside in a carpet of purple and pink hues.

Sounds amazing, isn't it? Don't miss a chance to see it yourself. Apply now for an ETA to New Zealand at https://www.nzeta.my/