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…

Experience 360° Views on the Christchurch Gondola

Ride the Christchurch Gondola to the Port Hills summit. Enjoy 360° views of the Alps, Lyttelton Harbour & Plains. Includes café, shop & Time Tunnel ride.

Cathedral Cove Scenic & Adventure Boat Tours from Whitianga

Cathedral Cove small group boat tour from Whitianga. Cruise sea caves, swim in the marine reserve and explore Mercury Bay’s volcanic coastline.

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.

Hydro Attack Queenstown semi-submersible shark on Lake Wakatipu jumping out of water

Hydro Attack Queenstown – Semi-Submersible Shark Ride

Experience Hydro Attack Queenstown’s famous shark ride on Lake Wakatipu. Dive, leap and roll at 80kph in this thrilling 15-minute Seabreacher adventure. Ages 6+

South Island Campervan Road Trip Christchurch to Marlborough

8 Day Road Trip South Island in a Maui Campervan Christchurch To Marlborough. Some Of The Best Things To Do & Places to See. Maui Campervan 8 Day Road Trip – Christhurch to Marlborough So that we could get a head start on our ‘South Island

Two hikers stand on a grassy hill overlooking a blue lake and snow-capped mountains in the distance.

Wanaka to Queenstown: Two Ways to Drive Crown Range or Cromwell

Compare the Wanaka to Queenstown drive via Crown Range or Cromwell. Discover Arrowtown, Cardrona, scenic stops, travel times and the best route.

Rakiura Adventure – Stewart Island Ulva Island Ferry & Water Taxi

Discover Ulva Island Ferry & Stewart Island water taxis with Rakiura Adventures. Enjoy daily trips, wildlife encounters, and scenic hikes. Book your trip now!

Auckland Whale & Dolphin Watching Tours

We guarantee you will see whales or dolphins in their natural habitat and if you don’t, your next trip is absolutely free!

Guided Kayak & Glowworm Tours in Tauranga

Experience guided kayak and glowworm tours in Tauranga. Paddle Lake McLaren, explore magical glowworm canyons and enjoy unforgettable day and night adventures.

Shot over jet speeding in the shot over river canyon

Shotover Jet Queenstown – Ride, Duration & What to Expect

How long is the Shotover Jet ride? Find out duration, what to wear and what to expect on this iconic Queenstown jet boat adventure before you book.

International Antarctic Centre Christchurch

At the International Antarctic Centre, our visitor experiences have been carefully developed to offer adrenalin and inspiration.

Mitai Maori Village Cultural Evening Experience, Rotorua

Immerse yourself in the rich traditions of Mitai Maori Village’s authentic cultural evenings in Rotorua. Experience the haka, poi dance, and indulge in a traditional hangi feast.

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.