Siberia Experience Wanaka – Fly, Walk & Jet Boat Adventure
Siberia Experience Wanaka – scenic flight, 3hr walk & jet boat in Mt Aspiring National Park. One of NZ’s best wilderness adventures. Book your trip today.
Best Things to Do in New Zealand (2026 Travel Guide)
Updated: 20 th June 2026
Explore New Zealand's Top Destinations
From world-famous landscapes to hidden local gems, this guide showcases the best things to do in New Zealand — from iconic North Island highlights to unforgettable South Island adventures. Whether you’re planning a once-in-a-lifetime trip or building your NZ bucket list, discover top tours, natural wonders, wildlife encounters and free experiences across the country.
Top Attractions, Tours & Experiences Across New Zealand
Your Ultimate Guide to the North & South Islands
Why Travellers Use Must Do New Zealand
Must Do New Zealand is an independent travel guide dedicated exclusively to showcasing the best experiences across New Zealand. For more than 16 years, our team has worked with tourism operators throughout the country, creating travel content, photography and videos that help visitors confidently plan their New Zealand adventure.
Our destination guides, activity pages and travel resources are regularly updated with current tour information, pricing and local insights. From iconic attractions and family-friendly activities to hidden gems and off-the-beaten-track experiences, we help travellers discover the very best of both the North and South Islands.
Unlike large international booking platforms, Must Do New Zealand focuses solely on New Zealand experiences, connecting visitors directly with local tourism operators while providing independent travel inspiration and planning advice built on years of travel, photography and video production throughout New Zealand.
Plan your perfect New Zealand itinerary and let this guide lead you through unmissable experiences across both the North island and South Islands.
Things to Do in the North Island
Explore the North Island of New Zealand with Must Do New Zealand. Discover activities, attractions and unforgettable things to see and do across this diverse and vibrant island.
Things to Do in the South Island
Travel the majestic South Island of New Zealand and discover unforgettable experiences. Explore activities, attractions and incredible things to see and do across this spectacular island.
Some of New Zealands Recommended Must Do Experiences
Handpicked experiences showcasing the diversity of New Zealand — from wildlife encounters and scenic journeys to unique local adventures…
Waitomo Glowworm Cave Tubing – Small-Group Tour at Okohua Cave
Experience Okohua’s glowworm cave in Waitomo: small-group black-water tubing with pro guides. Gear included, cedar hot tub. 3 hours. From NZD $229.
South Island Backpacker Adventure Tours in New Zealand
10 Day South Island Snow Adventure New Zealand’s South Island is a place of breathtaking beauty. It’s home to Queenstown, the Milford Sound, Lake Tekapo and our incredible glacier country, and so much more. There is no better time to explore it when your borders open
Waitangi Treaty Grounds. Paihia, Bay of Islands
The Waitangi Treaty Grounds are an absolute must-do when you are in the Bay of Islands – rich in history and stories
Abel Tasman Kayaks Freedom Hire – Day to Multi Day Hire
Freedom kayaking Abel Tasman gives you the independence to see the wonders of the coastline at your own pace.
Waitomo Caves Zipline Adventure Park
Approximately 1.5 hours of Zipline fun flying through native trees, over limestone bluffs & high above the beautiful Waitomo Caves
Queenstown Photography Tours – Remarkable imagery
Deep glacial lakes, snow capped mountains, alpine wilderness, wild rivers & quaint villages. half day & full day guided photographic tours
Marlborough Wine Tasting Tours & Winery Visits
Book Marlborough wine tasting tours from Picton & Blenheim. Visit top wineries, enjoy cellar door tastings, and explore world-class Sauvignon Blanc vineyards.
Going Blue Queentown Electric Bike Self Guided Tours & Hire
Queentown Electric Bike Full or half day Self Guided Bike Tours & Hire options, you will be amazed at how much fun you can have here on two wheels!
Mount Cook Day Tours from Queenstown
Discover Mount Cook day tours from Queenstown including Hooker Valley hikes, Tasman Glacier viewpoints and premium heli hike experiences. Book online.
Top 6 Milford Sound Cruises & Tours (Day & Overnight)
Top 6 Milford Sound cruises & tours—day, overnight, coach & fly-cruise—from Queenstown & Te Anau. Compare durations, inclusions, and prices to book.
Napier Bike Hire & Self-Guided Bike Tours – 3 Cycling Adventures
Napier bike hire and self-guided rides through Hawke’s Bay wineries, rivers and coast. Includes e-bikes, maps, transport and return shuttle. Book today!
Travel Inspiration, Expert Guides & New Zealand Travel Ideas
Planning a trip to New Zealand? Explore our growing collection of travel guides, destination features and experience comparisons designed to help you discover the very best of both the North Island and South Island. Whether you’re searching for New Zealand’s top attractions, scenic flights, jet boat rides, wildlife encounters, family-friendly activities, hidden gems or unforgettable road trip destinations, our guides provide inspiration, local insights and practical travel information to help you plan with confidence.
From iconic experiences such as Milford Sound, Queenstown and the Bay of Islands to lesser-known locations that many visitors overlook, these expert guides highlight some of the best things to do in New Zealand. Compare experiences, discover new destinations, explore seasonal travel ideas and find inspiration for your next New Zealand adventure.
New Zealand’s Best-Kept Secrets: Remarkable Places & Experiences Worth the Detour
Discover 10 of New Zealand’s best-kept secrets, from remote wilderness lodges and forgotten gold towns to hidden geothermal beaches & ancient limestone arches.
New Zealand’s Top Destinations to Visit – Your Travel Guide
Explore New Zealand’s top 20 must-visit destinations. From Northland to Stewart Island, discover breathtaking landscapes, adventure, and local attractions!
Queenstown to Christchurch: Via Lake Tekapo & Mount Cook
Drive from Queenstown to Christchurch via Lindis Pass, Mount Cook and Lake Tekapo. Discover scenic stops, walks, viewpoints and unforgettable alpine landscapes.
Best Scenic Flights in New Zealand – See Aotearoa from Above
Discover New Zealand’s best scenic flights – from Bay of Islands to Fiordland. Helicopter, floatplane & fixed-wing adventures over mountains, lakes & coastlines
One Month in New Zealand – The Ultimate North & South Island Itinerary
Plan the ultimate One month New Zealand itinerary. Explore the North & South Islands with our curated route featuring glaciers, fiords, beaches & M?ori culture.
Best Places to Go Jet Boating in New Zealand – Top Jet Boat Rides
Discover the best jet boat rides in New Zealand’s North & South Islands. Experience thrilling 360° spins, fast canyon runs and breathtaking landscapes.
