The Ultimate New Zealand Bucket List (2026)

Last Updated on 26th February 2026

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If you’re looking for the best New Zealand bucket list ideas for an amazing trip to NZ, you’ve come to the right place! Below, you’ll find 70+ NZ bucket list ideas!

When you’re planning a trip to my favourite country in the world, I truly believe that this ultimate New Zealand bucket list, created based on the almost-12 months in total that I spent living in the beautiful country, will help you create the most epic itinerary for your time in NZ.

The topic of New Zealand is one that you’ll probably find the most posts about on my blog. Having lived there for eight months when I was 13 years old, and then returning again with Matt for 3 months at the start of our world trip in April 2019, it’s a country that I’ve fallen head over heels in love with on many occasions.

Coincidentally, it’s also one of my absolute favourite things to write/talk about, so even though I have a plethora of New Zealand guides on my blog, I realised that I’d never actually written a fully comprehensive bucket list guide to New Zealand. Which is exactly what today’s post is all about.

If you’re planning an awesome New Zealand holiday, I’ve got you covered with this huge New Zealand bucket list guide so you can start creating your dream itinerary now and thinking about your trip in the future. If there’s one country I recommend everyone to visit at least once in their lives, it’s New Zealand, so hopefully this mammoth New Zealand bucket list will inspire you even more!

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1. Hire a campervan and road trip the whole country

Our campervan road trip around South Island New Zealand was undoubtedly one of the most incredible experiences of my life. While we did travel around many parts of the North Island as well, actually hiring a campervan (or two – we did two separate legs of our trip) to explore the South Island was out of this world amazing and an experience you have to do in New Zealand.

2. Drive the Milford Sound Road – ultimate New Zealand bucket list

This is literally one travel experience that I practically never stop going on about and that’s simply because it was one of the best days of my entire life.

Driving the Milford Sound Road is an experience not to be missed in New Zealand; there’s so much to see along the way!

3. Go on a Milford Sound Cruise

Following on from driving along the Milford Sound Road, you simply have to take a Milford Sound Cruise when you’re in the South Island.

This is without a doubt one of the most incredible feats of nature I’ve ever witnessed and it really does live up to the hype.

4. Bungee jump at Velocity Valley

New Zealand is renowned for being an adrenaline junkie’s dream, so there are dozens of places across the country where you can take part in adventure-fuelled activities.

Personally, I’d recommend bungee jumping at Velocity Valley. They have a whole adventure VIP package that you can enjoy which includes a bungee jump and four epic rides. It’s pretty expensive but well worth it and it’s definitely something you should have on your New Zealand itinerary.

5. Visit the Waitomo Glowworm Caves

New Zealand is home to tonnes of natural phenomena and arguably one of the country’s best natural attractions is the Waitomo Glowworm Caves.

You’ll take a boat ride through the caves and look up to see thousands of twinkling “lights” in the form of glowworms; it’s such a breathtaking sight to see.

6. Drive through Arthur’s Pass – NZ bucket list

Arthur’s Pass is one of the most popular but arguably difficult road trip routes in South Island New Zealand. We were very lucky when we drove it as the road conditions were pretty excellent but it’s often known to close due to extreme weather.

If you get the chance to drive through it, definitely make the most of the opportunity as it’s home to some phenomenal scenery, nature and epic vista views.

Read more: What Is New Zealand Famous For? 40 Things That Make New Zealand Special

7. Go skydiving over Mount Maunganui/Tauranga

I’ve been lucky enough to live just half an hour away from Tauranga and the Mount when I’ve lived in the North Island, both when I was 13 and then again in 2019 when we started our world trip there and so it holds such a special place in my heart.

There are plenty of activities to take part in, in and around Mount Maunganui but undoubtedly one of the best is to go skydiving over the Mount and Tauranga. The views are unbelievably epic and the adrenaline rush will be unlike anything you’ve ever experienced before!

8. Take a tour of Hobbiton

Despite only watching the Lord of the Rings and the Hobbit film franchises just a few weeks before we flew out to NZ, I fell absolutely head over heels in love with Hobbiton and always cite it as one of the best things to do in North Island New Zealand.

It’s a magical experience even if you haven’t watched the films, but it definitely feels a bit more special once you can spot things out from the movies.

9. Visit Hot Water Beach – ultimate New Zealand bucket list

Hot Water Beach is another natural phenomenon that can’t be missed while in NZ.

Ensure that you’re equipped with buckets and spaces (or just hire some from the local gift shop) and dig your very own hot water geothermal pool! I’d heard great things about Hot Water Beach before we visited but I didn’t realise just how cool it would actually be until we saw it ourselves!

10. See the beautiful Cathedral Cove

Less than a 15-minute drive from Hot Water Beach is the magnificent Cathedral Cove; a truly idyllic beach spot on the Coromandel Peninsula.

A lovely walk from the hilltop will take you down to the Cove, where you can then enjoy marvellous views out to sea and of course, the impressive rock formations that punctuate the beach.

11. Walk around McLaren Falls Park

McLaren Falls Park is a lovely place to visit in the North Island all year round but is arguably best enjoyed in the autumn when the hundreds of trees are coated in the most remarkable autumnal foliage.

It’s a great place to bring a picnic in the summer, or just to enjoy a leisurely stroll around the vast grounds and best of all, it’s free to visit! Make sure to spend time at the impressive waterfall as well.

12. Visit Te Puna Quarry Park

Te Puna Quarry Park is another place that’s not too far from Tauranga so it can easily be incorporated into a day trip there.

It’s another free attraction which is always a bonus in a very expensive country like New Zealand and the former quarry is gradually being developed into an awesome park, complete with cool attractions, greenery and even a butterfly sanctuary.

13. Hike Mount Maunganui – NZ bucket list

Hiking Mount Maunganui is a must-do if you’re in the area. It’s considered to be a relatively easy hike to the top, but it is pretty steep in places. The hike to the top should take anywhere between 45-minutes and an hour and a half, depending on your pace, fitness levels and how often you want to stop and enjoy the view.

In my opinion, it’s best to head up there for sunrise as the views of the sun peeking out on the horizon over the sea is such a magical sight. You also very well may see numerous locals passing you multiple times as you ascend and descend; some locals run up the Mount five or six times a day!

14. See Burke’s Pass

Burke’s Pass has a very Route 66 feel to it and as someone who’s yet to road trip across America, it made me very excited to see this quirky little stop in the Mackenzie Country on our South Island road trip.

15. Go to the top of the Sky Tower – Auckland bucket list

Surprisingly, I wasn’t all that fond of Auckland as I didn’t really feel like there was an awful lot going on, but one thing I’d definitely recommend doing while you’re in the city is taking a trip up the Sky Tower.

The views of the city are so awesome and there’s even a revolving 360° restaurant at the top, so you can enjoy panoramic views while you eat (the food is also pretty divine as well!).

16. Stargaze in Tekapo – ultimate New Zealand bucket list

As there’s very little light pollution across the vast majority of NZ, it’s a great place to enjoy a spot of stargazing, with arguably the best place to see the stars being in Tekapo.

We were fortunate enough to see the most magnificent night sky I’ve ever seen, complete with the Milky Way, when we were parked up near the Ahuriri River, but if you want a pretty much guaranteed sighting of the stars, Tekapo is the best choice.

17. Climb the hill at Victoria Domain

Located near the very top of the South Island in Picton, you’ll find an area called the Victoria Domain, which offers multiple hiking tracks to the top of a hill, boasting marvellous views out to the harbour below.

18. Take a road trip to Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park

Mount Cook is one of the most famous mountains in New Zealand and is certainly one of the most incredible ones I’ve ever seen.

Getting to and from the national park is known to be quite a feat, especially in the winter when harsh weather conditions result in road closures, and so I felt incredibly lucky when we tried to get there for the second time and we finally managed to.

There’s so much to see and do in and around the national park, including plenty of mountainous and glacial hikes, spending time in the cosy village and even taking a helicopter ride over the summits!

19. Go whale watching in Kaikoura

Kaikoura is known for being home to many different kinds of incredible wildlife, most notably whales, so a whale-watching excursion should definitely be on the cards when visiting Kaikoura.

20. Visit the Weta Workshop in Wellington

If you’re a movie buff, then you’re sure to love a visit to Weta Workshop in NZ. The workshop is the creator of thousands of movie props and sets, including for top franchises such as Lord of the Rings, Men in Black and Ghostbusters.

You can take a tour of the workshop and see some of the most remarkable props from some of the most famous films in the world.

21. Drive along 90-Mile Beach – ultimate New Zealand bucket list

Unfortunately, this beach isn’t actually 90 miles long (it’s actually only 55), but it’s still a cool place to explore on the west coast of the very top of the North Island.

Home to beautiful, sandy beaches and excellent shores, 90-mile beach is a fabulous place to visit and even drive on (providing that you have a 4-wheel drive or book one of the tours!).

22. Take a trip to the Bay of Islands

The Bay of Islands comprises more than 140 islands, just three hours north of Auckland. Here you’ll find endless stretches of stunning beaches, ample diving and snorkelling opportunities, plus plenty of places where you can learn about the enigmatic history of the native Māori people.

23. See the lupins at Lake Tekapo – ultimate New Zealand bucket list

If you’ve ever looked at the #NewZealand tag on Instagram anytime between September and February, you’ll have likely seen thousands of pictures of the beautiful lupin flowers.

There are lots of places to see these stunning flora in NZ, but one of the best and most popular places is around Lake Tekapo.

24. Explore Karangahake Gorge

Visiting Karangahake Gorge is one of my favourite memories from when I lived in New Zealand as a teenager, so I couldn’t wait to return there with Matt when we headed to NZ in 2019.

The North Island’s State Highway 2 passes alongside the river on which the gorge resides. This is an awesome sight to see in itself, but if you get the opportunity, I’d recommend parking up and exploring one of the many hiking trails around the gorge, as well as the numerous bridges, abandoned railway tracks and even the occasional glowworm cave!

25. Ride the Wellington Cable Car

The quirky funicular railway in the country’s capital city is a relatively small and insignificant excursion to undertake, but it’s still one that’s pretty cool nonetheless.

The cable car takes you from the city’s Lambton Quay area, 120m into the hills that overlook the city. It’s only a short 5-minute ride each way, but there are numerous activities, attractions and walks to enjoy at the top and of course, awesome views as well.

26. Go glamping – ultimate New Zealand bucket list

New Zealand is a glamping fanatic’s dream as there are so many places to enjoy a state-of-the-art glamping experience throughout the country.

We stayed in a luxury yurt when we were in the South Island, not too far from Kaikoura, but there are literally hundreds of awesome glamping sites all over.

27. See the incredible Redwoods in Rotorua

Rotorua is home to an abundance of amazing things to see and do (more of which I’ve featured below), but potentially one of the best things to see while you’re in the area is the Redwoods and Whakarewarewa Forest.

You can book tickets to go on the Redwoods Treewalk which takes you through wooden platforms high up in the trees, or you can simply walk around for free underneath the trees and admire the impressive feats of nature from below.

28. Go skydiving or canyon swinging – Queenstown bucket list

If New Zealand is the home to the best adrenaline-fuelled activities in the world, then Queenstown is definitely its capital.

There are ample fun-filled, action-packed activities to enjoy in Queenstown, most notably skydiving and canyon swinging.

29. Visit Slope Point – ultimate New Zealand bucket list

While Stewart Island is technically the most southern point of the country as it’s an island more southerly than the rest of the country, Slope Point is the country’s mainland most southerly point and, while it might not sound all that interesting, I can assure you that it’s worth a visit.

The views out to sea are impeccable and the surrounding landscape feels so otherworldly; you can also see how far away you are from both the equator and the South Pole which feels so crazy!

30. Take a wine tour in Marlborough

The Marlborough region of the South Island is famed for its world-class wine, so if you’re partial to a tipple or two, it’s the perfect place to spend some time and explore the many wineries and vineyards in the region.

31. Spend the day at Orokawa Bay

Orokawa Bay is another one of my favourite places in the North Island that I first discovered when I lived there as a teenager.

It sits just north of Waihi Beach (another awesome beach in the North Island) and the hike to get there takes approximately 1 hour and you’ll get to enjoy the most amazing views out to sea from the clifftop. The beach itself once you get to the bay is so divine and pristine and I’ve been lucky that every time I’ve been there, it’s been practically empty.

32. Visit The Cider Factorie in Te Puna

Just a 10-minute drive from Te Puna Quarry Park resides The Cider Factorie and restaurant; a great place to sample locally-made cider and indulge in something delicious to eat.

You can order pints of cider if you want to drink just one, or you can order a sampling board where you’ll get to try numerous different ones (I’d definitely recommend the sample board; there are some absolutely delicious ones to try!).

33. Hike Mount Taranaki – ultimate New Zealand bucket list

If you’re an avid climber/hiker, then you absolutely need to add a visit to Mount Taranaki to your New Zealand bucket list.

This pretty-difficult hike will take you approximately 5-6 hours to reach the summit and another 3-4 hours to descend again, so it’s certainly not for the faint-hearted. It’s a remarkable experience though and one that you’re sure not to regret (providing that your fitness levels are up to scratch when you attempt it!).

34. See the penguin colony in Oamaru

We stumbled across the blue penguin colony in Oamaru completely by chance on our South Island road trip, but it was one of the best “accidents” we could have had.

Park up on the side of the road and see the hundreds of tiny penguins lined up on the boardwalk; it’s certainly a sight to behold!

35. Eat at Fergburger in Queenstown

I’d heard numerous things about the famous Fergburger restaurant before we visited and I was convinced that a burger surely couldn’t be as good as everyone was making it out to be, but just one bite of my burger and I was in heaven.

It’s without a doubt one of the best burgers I’ve ever had (I went for the Chief Wiggum) and while the huge queues out of the door can be a little frustrating, I promise you that it’s worth the wait! I honestly think about Fergburger at least once a week!

36. Take a trip to Larnach Castle

Known as New Zealand’s only castle, Larnach Castle resides just outside of Dunedin.

If you’ve seen any castles in the UK or Europe, then Larnach Castle won’t be quite as spectacular as the likes of Edinburgh Castle or Neuschwanstein Castle, for example, but it’s still worth a quick visit around the grounds.

37. Explore Fox Glacier – bucket list ideas NZ

Fox Glacier is just one of the most famous glaciers in the South Island and at 13 kilometres long, it’s slowly receding each year due to climate change and global warming, so it’s a good idea to try and see it as soon as you can!

38. Spend time at Tekapo Springs

There are many hot springs located across both islands in New Zealand, with Tekapo’s offering boasting one of the very best.

Here, you can spend some time relaxing in the thermal hot pools, saunas and steam rooms. It’s the perfect place to unwind after a busy NZ road trip!

39. Take a helicopter tour around Franz Josef Glacier

Almost adjacent to Fox Glacier sits Franz Josef Glacier. A kilometre shorter than Fox Glacier, it too is receding each year due to the damages of global warming.

If you get the chance (and can stretch your budget), take a helicopter tour around and above the glacier; it’s a great thing to see from the ground but it’s even more magical from above!

40. Hike the Tongariro Alpine Crossing

Another exhilarating hike to enjoy in New Zealand is the epic Tongariro Alpine Crossing.

There are several hiking options to choose from, including short 1-hour walks, to the full 6-8 hour trek along the crossing itself. Tongariro National Park is almost home to Mount Ngauruhoe, also known as Mount Doom in the LOTR trilogy.

41. Go on a day trip to Waiheke Island – Auckland bucket list NZ

Waiheke Island is yet another one of my favourite places in NZ and while Matt and I didn’t quite get the chance to visit it when we were there on our trip, it is one of my fondest memories from when I lived in New Zealand in 2011.

It’s the most stunning, pristine island with spectacular beaches, gorgeous seafront houses, endless wineries and beautiful scenery. It’s also just a short ferry ride from Auckland, so it’s pretty easily accessible.

42. Take the ferry to Stewart Island

Speaking of taking a ferry, ride another great island to visit in New Zealand is Stewart Island, located just 30km off the coast of the South Island. It’s known as one of the best places in the country to see some of the most exquisite wildlife in their natural habitats, including the highly elusive kiwi bird.

43. Spend time in Abel Tasman National Park

While Abel Tasman National Park might be the smallest national park in New Zealand, it still boasts a plethora of wonderful things to see and do.

There are plenty of kayaking excursions to take part in, as well as numerous cruises, hikes, and rafting experiences.

44. Visit Hokitika Gorge – ultimate New Zealand bucket list

The area around Hokitika and the gorge is known to be one of the best drives on the west coast of the South Island and the gorge itself is an absolute feat to behold.

There are many hiking tracks to enjoy, as well as waterfalls, parks and hill climbs. The swing bridge over Hokitika River is also famous in New Zealand, largely thanks to the mesmerising views over the crystal-clear aqua water below.

45. Take a tour of Doubtful Sound

Despite Doubtful Sound being larger and arguably just as beautiful as Milford Sound, it’s not quite as popular or as famous, but that doesn’t mean to say that it’s not well worth a visit.

Similarly to Milford Sound, you can take day tours as well as overnight excursions along Doubtful Sound, plus there are kayaking experiences and bountiful hikes to enjoy around the area too.

46. Go dolphin watching from Picton

New Zealand’s coastline is positively teeming with an abundance of fantastic wildlife, including dolphins and one of the best places to see them is via a dolphin watching tour from Picton.

If you’re lucky, you’ll get to see dozens of beautiful dolphins showing off in the waters; it’s an experience that you’ll certainly never forget.

47. Climb up Baldwin Street – NZ bucket list

There have been some debates over the years as to whether Baldwin Street really is the steepest street in the world and after losing its title briefly to a street in Wales, I believe it’s now been reinstated as the steepest street in the world.

From pictures alone, it’s hard to see just how steep the gradient is on Baldwin Street, but I can assure you that it’s mightily impressive in person, especially when you’re trying to walk up and down it!

48. Enjoy a wine tour in Napier

Another great place to enjoy a wine tour in New Zealand is in the Napier region in the North Island.

Hawke’s Bay is one of the most popular places to take a wine tour and wine connoisseurs are sure to enjoy a tipple or two!

49. Take a ride on the Christchurch Gondola

The Christchurch Gondola is located just outside of the city centre, but it offers sweeping views of the city and beyond nonetheless.

You can see out across Lyttelton Harbour and as it’s situated 445 metres above sea level at the very top, the 360º views are unparalleled.

50. Visit Waimangu Volcanic Valley – bucket list ideas NZ

Located just a 20-minute drive from Rotorua, Waimangu Volcanic Valley is one of the most amazing natural attractions in the North Island.

It’s known to be the world’s youngest geothermal system, complete with extraordinary volcanic craters, giant hot springs and sensational plant life. You can take tours of Waimangu, or simply just make your own way around the giant park. Either way, it’s something you need to have on your New Zealand bucket list.

51. Ride the Skyline Gondola and Skyline Luge in Rotorua

Another top attraction to experience in Rotorua is the Skyline Gondola and Skyline Luge.

The luge was one of the most fun activities we did in the North Island and while whizzing down the hillside at impeccable speeds in a tiny little cart can be terrifying at times, it was also such an adrenaline rush and something I’d always recommend doing if you’re in the area.

52. See the incredible Huka Falls – ultimate New Zealand bucket list

Forming part of the Waikato River, Huka Falls are a set of otherworldly waterfalls that drain from Lake Taupo.

At the falls, you’ll see some of the fastest-falling water in the most dazzling, bright blues, with more than 220,000 litres falling per second! If you’re feeling adventurous, you can take a jetboat ride over the falls; however, this isn’t something to be enjoyed lightly so make sure you’re feeling venturesome before you partake!

53. Stroll around the Hamilton Gardens

A slightly more serene activity to enjoy, but one that’s still thoroughly lovely nevertheless is a gentle stroll around the Hamilton Gardens.

Comprising a whopping 54-hectare area of land in the Hamilton District, these gardens boast beautiful landscapes, picnic areas, lakes and much more.

54. Visit the Te Papa New Zealand Museum

In the capital city of Wellington, you’ll find the astonishing Te Papa museum; New Zealand’s national museum boasting dozens of exhibitions, galleries, activities, events and more.

It’s a great place to learn about some of the captivating history of New Zealand, including tales from the Gallipoli from World War 1 and the Te Taiao nature exhibition.

55. Go to the Moeraki Boulders – bucket list ideas NZ

Just one glimpse at the Moeraki Boulders on the southeast coast of the South Island and you’ll be convinced that you’ve been transported back to Jurassic times.

These almost-perfectly spherical boulders are remarkably unique and pre-historic and weigh several tonnes each; it’s a natural occurrence like no other!

56. Take a trip to the Punakaiki Pancake Rocks and Blowholes

Another wondrous feat of nature in the South Island, this time on the west coast of the island are the Pancake Rocks and blowholes near Punakaiki.

These tremendous pancake-shaped rock formations are impossibly ethereal and when you actually see one of the blowholes go, it’s quite a sight to see!

57. Swim in the Haast Blue Pools

The Blue Pools near Haast Pass are somewhat similar to Hokitika Gorge as the water here is a beautiful shade of transparent blue; so clear and crisp that it’s hard not to want to jump in immediately!

There are also several walking tracks to explore around the area, including a swing bridge that is famous for daredevils jumping off in the summer months.

58. Explore Lake Wanaka (and the Wanaka Tree)

Wanaka is one of the most popular areas to visit in the South Island, particularly around the lake.

In recent years, thanks to Instagram influencers giving it fame, the Wanaka Tree has become one of the most popular spots in the region to visit. In reality, it really is just a tree in the lake and while it’s not tremendously exciting, the excellent positioning of a camera will provide you with a spectacular background of the lake and surrounding mountains.

Read more: North Island vs South Island New Zealand – Which Island Is Better?

59. Go kayaking in Lake Taupo

New Zealand’s largest lake by surface area, Lake Taupo, is a bustling hotspot for tourists as there are plenty of things to do in the area.

Kayaking on the lake is one of the most fun experiences you can have in Taupo, but you might also want to try your hand at jet-skiing or even bungy jumping.

60. Take a trip to Cape Reinga – ultimate New Zealand bucket list

If you’re making the effort to visit Slope Point in the southernmost tip of the South Island, it only seems fair that you make the trip up to Cape Reinga to see the northwesternmost tip of the North Island as well.

Cape Reinga is also a famous and beloved area within the Māori culture, so it’s a great place to visit to soak up some traditional NZ culture as well.

61. Watch an All Blacks rugby match

The New Zealand All Blacks are one of the best and most beloved rugby teams in the world and if you time your stay in New Zealand right, you might just get the chance to watch an All Blacks match.

You’ll get to see the infamous ceremonial haka dance before the match begins, plus some of the best rugby players in the world in action.

62. See the stunning Lake Pukaki – ultimate New Zealand bucket list

I think it’s clear to see by now that New Zealand isn’t exactly short of breathtaking lakes and you can add yet another one to your list in the form of Lake Pukaki.

This lake, situated just north of Twizel, not too far from Mount Cook National Park, is a striking turquoise colour as a result of glacial erosion which makes it one of the most vivid-coloured lakes in the country.

63. Take a bath at Onsen Hot Pools – Queenstown bucket list

Known to be an Instagrammer’s dream in Queenstown, the Onsen Hot Pools form part of a boutique, luxury day spa.

The hot tubs look out over the Shotover River canyon, so not only are you relaxing in the most tranquil way possible, you’re also doing it while being surrounded by the most wonderful views.

64. Go sandboarding/surfing in the Te Paki sand dunes

The Te Paki Giant Sand Dunes are located almost next door to Cape Reinga and the ever-changing sand dunes provide visitors with an exhilarating opportunity to enjoy sandboarding/surfing.

Some parts of the dunes are incredibly steep, so you’ve got to have your wits about you, but it makes for a great experience while you’re in the area.

65. Hike Roys Peak in Wanaka – ultimate New Zealand bucket list

The majestic mountain of Roys Peak is one of the most popular mountain peaks to climb in the South Island, boasting imposing views across Lake Wanaka and the surrounding mountain peaks.

It’s a good few hours’ walk to the top and back down again, so make sure you give yourself plenty of time to endure the hike and enjoy the sensational views while you’re up there.

66. Visit the Waitangi Treaty Grounds

The Waitangi Treaty Grounds are a protected site located with the Bay of Islands region and they’re particularly important as it was the site where the first accord between the British Crown and the Māori people was signed.

There are multiple museums to discover and explore at Waitangi, where you’ll get to learn all about the history of the indigenous people and how New Zealand was founded.

67. Scuba dive at the Poor Knights Islands

While New Zealand isn’t always particularly synonymous with diving, the Poor Knights Islands offer the chance to scuba dive in one of the most prestigious diving locations in the world.

An ethereal experience for sure, diving at the Poor Knights Islands will take you through underwater kelp forests, deep, dark caves and myriad fish and stingrays. Avid divers can’t miss the opportunity to (quite literally) dive in here!

68. See Lake Hawea – bucket list ideas NZ

What’s this? Yet another lake to explore in New Zealand?! While you might think you’ve seen the best of the bunch so far on this list, I’ve actually saved my personal favourite ’til last; Lake Hawea.

We actually stayed at a campsite right on the edge of Lake Hawea and walking up to the view of the lake on a morning really was something else. It’s an absolutely breathtaking lake, whether you’re driving around it, swimming in it or just looking out across the water.

So, there you have it! My absolute mammoth New Zealand bucket list post! Of course, this list could contain hundreds of things to do in the most beautiful country in the world, but if you’re looking for a place to start, I reckon this is as good as any 😉

Bonus best things to do in NZ – ultimate bucket list

• Take a scenic flight over White Island
• Attempt to see the Southern Lights
• Take an epic Lord of the Rings tour
• Climb the Auckland Harbour Bridge
• Go ZORBING in Rotorua

Related posts:

• 11 Reasons Why New Zealand Should Be At The Top Of Your Bucket List
• How Much Money We Spent On A 3 Month Trip Around New Zealand
• Top Things To See and Do in South Island New Zealand
• Our 5 Week South Island New Zealand Road Trip Itinerary
• The Ultimate List Of The Best Things To Do In North Island New Zealand

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Do you have anything else to add to this ultimate New Zealand bucket list? Let me know in the comments or on Instagram at @imjustagirl_16.