TALK. Top 10 places to visit in New Zealand

Friday, 17 March 2017

We may not be the only ones around the globe to say it, but we do know the truth- our country is the most beautiful in the world! Not only do we have here in New Zealand every kind of landscape you could dream of - mountains, beaches, meadows, coves, lakes - but our culture and Maori inheritance give a special identity to our country.

Every tourist that stops by here will confess it; this land of adventure and wild beauty fascinates and bewitches them!

And for those of you who still didn't get a glimpse of New Zealand's beauty, or if your eyes are simply too accustomed to its magnificence, here is a list of the top 10 places to visit in our country.

1. Mount Maungani

A beach leading to a magnificent volcano, offering a unique landscape of and from the beach, the turquoise sea, the palm trees… No wonder why Mount Maunganui attracts so many people! Your eyes will never have enough of this incredible landscape, and your belly will be sure to be full at all times with the multiple restaurants that the beach has to offer.  

2.Waiheke Island

If you have always wanted to get a taste of Hawaii, you like wine or if you simply love beautiful beaches, Waiheke Island is definitely a must-go for you! Only 40 minutes away from Auckland by ferry, the island is perfect to spend a relaxed day or to have a wine tour. It is the best place to escape the hustle and bustle of Auckland!

3. Hobbiton

Is it possible to talk about New Zealand without mentioning Hobbiton? Well at least, not for us! This small town which comes right from the Lord of the Rings saga will transport you to another world - literally, since you will end up in the Shire - and you will even be able to go to the local bar to taste the Hobbit's beer! 

4. Cathedral Cove

Revealed by an arch carved out of the most impressive rock you could imagine lies this unique beach. The "secret" feeling that the beach offers, as well as its beauty, explains its popularity, and notably the fact that it was chosen to be in The Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian. So if you want to feel apart from the world or if you want to go to Narnia, just cross the rock arch!   

5. Lake Taupo

If you want to be in awe of the grandness and beauty of nature, then Lake Taupo is what you are looking for! The lake, which is the largest lake of New Zealand (616 square kilometers), has so many beautiful landscapes to offer, as well as adventures such as swimming, kayaking or scenic cruises. It is also located near the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, ranked as one of the top 10 crossings in the world. It offers a unique adventure in New Zealand's raw nature, where you can trek amid the volcanic craters and emerald-hued lakes of Tongariro National Park. We're cheating a little bit here, but a picture of Tongariro never hurts:

6. Bay of Islands

Do you want to live a maritime adventure with an abundance of wildlife including penguins, dolphins, marlin, whales, gannets and more? You just found the perfect place to do so! In the Bay of Islands, you will also be able to see Piercy Island and its "Hole in the Rock", as well as beautiful rivers and seaside walking tracks, or encounter the mighty Kauri Tree in pristine subtropical rainforest.

7. Stewart Island

Also called Rakiura in Māori, meaning "the land of glowing skies", the island will allow you to fulfil the pleasure of the eyes with the Aurora Australis than can be seen in the southern skies. You will also be able to go hiking or birdwatching, as 85% of the island is a National Park. If you get lucky, you will even spot Kiwis during the day, as well as blue or yellow-eyed penguins.

 8. Lake Pukaki

The picture alone should convince you about the beauty of New Zealand, and make you want to go there. This shimmering blue jewel set into a grand alpine playground (Mount Cook) is a unique scenery which will make you fall in love with New Zealand (if it is not the case already, that is).

 9. Milford Sound

This magnificent Fiordland located in the South Island will be sure to take your breath away with its jagged cliffs, cascading waterfalls and pure air. Sail on the still waters past sunbathing seals and let your mind drift with the wind throughout the waters and mountains. This place will heal all your pains and sweep your worries away, we can assure you that. 

 10. Abel Tasman

Golden beaches, green vegetation, crystal clear water… Welcome to one of the most beautiful places in the country! Go kayaking around the various coves and discover the shore accompanied by dolphins and seals, or simply go hiking along the costal tracks. Whatever option you choose, the scenery will mesmerise you and leave a mark on your mind that you will never be able to erase.