Bayscapes Charters – Bay of Islands Sailing & Island Adventure’s
Sail the Bay of Islands with Bayscapes Charters aboard Hibiscus Star. Island stops, swimming, snorkelling, paddleboarding, lunch. Day & private charters.
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…
Cruise Milford Sound from Te Anau & Queenstown
you’ll be travelling on smaller boats, which are less crowded & where the crew offer an informative & personal tour of Milford Sound,
Free Things to Do in Gisborne & Tairawhiti
Explore Gisborne for Free: Nature, Culture, & Fun. Discover hot springs, botanical gardens, scenic walks, and more without spending a cent!
Wine Tours on Waiheke Island
Join ENJOI Waiheke Island wine tours with small group vineyard tastings, stunning coastal views and visits to some of the island’s most celebrated wineries.
Christchurch Day Trips
Canterbury offers so much to see & experience & easily accessible in a day trip from Christchurch, so get out there and explore!
Free Things to Do in Franz Josef – Explore Glacier Country for Free
Discover the best free things to do in Franz Josef: glacier walks, rainforest trails, glowworms and wildlife. Explore Glacier Country without spending a dollar!
Private Power Boat Charter Bay of Islands – Tere Tere
Private power boat charter in the Bay of Islands for couples & small groups. Explore islands, secluded beaches and enjoy a flexible, personalised day on the water.
Tongariro Crossing – Ruapehu Summer & Winter Activities
Transport shuttle for the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, Mt Ruapehu ski & snowboard, mountain biking trails & transport in Ruapehu region.
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.
Hanmer Springs Adventure Centre – Activities for all ages
you’ll find plenty to do outdoors at Hanmer Advenure Centre, from soft adventure to adrenalin pumping action.
Arthur’s Pass Day Trips from Christchurch – Train & Coach Tours
Experience Arthur’s Pass on a guided day trip from Christchurch. Choose the TranzAlpine train or mini-coach. Includes hikes, Castle Hill & Otira Gorge.
Auckland Wine, Cocktails & Craft Beer Tours
Showcasing Auckland’s cultural diversity through fresh local food and NZ wine, NZ Craft Beer and handmade cocktails.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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!
