17 Natural Wonders in New Zealand That Will Take Your Breath Away

The Waitomo Caves are located in the Waikato Region, approximately 200 kilometres from Auckland. An underground boat tour of this popular destination will expose you to a fluorescent blanket of glow-worms.

The Haast Pass is a fantastic travelling route, and its Blue Pools are an added bonus for nature-loving drivers.

The Tongariro National Park is a world heritage site as well as being New Zealand’s oldest national park. Its 19.4-kilometre Alpine Crossing is a popular hiking destination and is lined with some of the most remarkable landscapes.

New Zealand’s largest freshwater springs will douse you in crystal-clear colours and native greenery. Its full name is actually Te Waikoropupū, and the spring’s place in local culture and history means its waters are strictly off-limits.

Ever wanted to hike up a glacier? Then consider making an expedition to the fascinating Franz Josef. Guided tours of this frosted beauty usually take approximately 2-3 hours to complete, rewarding you with plenty of fabulous vistas.

Amazing remote wilderness, remarkable river valleys, and high mountain peaks line this interesting national park. Tolkien fans will also recognize Mount Aspiring as the location for Isengard in the Lord of the Rings trilogy.

While you’re in a cool, alpine mood, don’t forget to check out the majestic Fox Glacier too, as its grandness is guaranteed to leave a lasting impression. And in case you’re wondering, the Fox Glacier is slightly larger than its neighbouring Franz Josef.

The Farewell Spit is New Zealand’s longest sand spit, and is particularly renowned for its rich bird life and engulfing dunes.

This compelling hot water pool, 27 kilometres south of Rotorua, is quite memorable for its unique champagne hues.

Admire this 55 metre waterfall adorning the Northwestern Waikato district. You’ll find this aptly-named Bridal Veil Falls within a 10-minute walking distance from the beachside town of Raglan.

Another famed hiking destination greatly embellished by picture-perfect, mountainous scenery. Hidden within the Milford Sound you will also find the exquisite, and underrated, Lake Quill.

The sheer size of the trees in this Rotorua forest is enough to leave everyone astonished.

Exquisite rock formations make for an interesting sight, and the handsome Pancake Rocks on the South Island’s West Coast region are very much proof of this.

See The Catlins in its best possible light. Literally. Nugget Point is a lighthouse that has been greatly embellished by its wildlife and surrounding Otago landscapes.

Snowy mountains are a Kiwi speciality. Mount Taranaki on the North Island’s west coast is among the best renowned, mostly for its beauty, but partly because of a special cameo in the 2003 film The Last Samurai.

This iconic beach actually has a misleading name, as it’s less than 60 miles long. Still, those gorgeous coastlines won’t disappoint with their continuous stream of oceanic views.

New Zealand’s third largest lake adds a special sparkle to Queenstown and the surrounding Otago Region.

From the towering peaks of Fiordland to the undulating vineyards of Waiheke Island, New Zealand is home to many stunning landscapes. Take a cruise through the enchanted fjords of Milford Sound, trek the breathtaking Tongariro trails, or see the geothermal wonders of Rotorua. There is something for everyone, regardless of your interests—adventure, leisure, or culture. See the best of New Zealand by taking one of our trips!