Queenstown is the place to go to dabble in some of New Zealand’s most famous heart-pumping adventures. No trip is complete without a visit to the Nevis Bungy, which sends you soaring more than 400 yards above Queenstown. Another can’t-miss bungee jump is the iconic Kawarau Bridge Bungy. Founded in 1988, this thrilling adventure sends you flying over the picturesque Kawarau River and alongside the Crown Range Road.
Dubbed New Zealand’s “Wine Island,” Waiheke boasts more than 20 vineyards and wineries along the 35-square foot islet. Just a quick 35-minute ferry ride from the bustling city of Auckland, a trip to Waiheke is the perfect holiday escape. To sip as many varietals as you can, opt for a wine tour, which will take you to multiple vineyards around the island, including favorites like Peacock Sky, Mudbrick and Cable Bay.
You haven't seen anything like the Waitomo Caves, however, there's a chance you've at least seen a photo of its mossy backdrop. Often called the "glowworm caves," inside, thousands of dazzling luminescent creatures sparkle through the dark waters as you raft or hike through. Lucky for you, there are plenty of ways to see them, from black water rafting, rappelling off the craggy mountain cliff or leisurely kayaking below them as they twinkle against the dark cave walls.
Arguably one of New Zealand's most prized natural attractions, the Milford Sound on the South Island is home to the Milford Track, which is known as the “finest walk in the world.” Along the way, this 33.5-mile hike features jaw-dropping views, from lush rainforests and gushing river gorges to snowy, carved glacial peaks. Three times the length and 10 times the area of the Milford, Doubtful Sound in Fiordland National Park offers unparalleled views of waterfalls propelling off mossy green cliffs and jagged fjords sloping around glacial bays. And due to its relatively isolated location and lack of noise – it's often called "the Sound of Silence."
You can’t miss the sulfur-rich aromas that permeate from Rotorua, New Zealand’s most dynamic thermal area. Home to spluttering geysers, puttering mud pots, spurting hot springs and exploding pools, the sounds, sights and smells are truly out of this world. The crown jewel of the area is the Wai-o-tapu (sacred waters) area, which features a collection of brightly colored springs, waterfalls and mud pools such as the Central Pools of Wai-o-tapu, Lake Ngakoro Waterfall and the Artist’s Palette (aptly named for its multi-colored waters).