What to do in New Zealand

Whether you are immigrating to New Zealand or simply taking a holiday, you will want something to do when you get there! This section has been put together to let you know about some of the attractions and activities that will be available to you and it covers both the North Island and the South Island. New Zealand is the home of outdoor sports of almost every variety so if you’re looking for an action-packed time, you’re going to the right place! It also has some spectacular scenery to offer for those who wish to take it a little easier! It is worth noting as well that a lot of the attractions in New Zealand offer free entry!

There are plenty of companies that offer Lord of the Rings tours. Try http://www.tourism.net.nz/tours/lord-of-the-rings-tours/ or http://www.jasons.co.nz/lordoftherings/

If you’re in Auckland, why not try ‘New Zealand’s premier Theme Park’…..

Go to www.rainbowsend.co.nz for more information.

In a beautiful little town called Tirau (North Island) there is a place called ‘The Castle Pamela’, which is home to one of New Zealand’s largest toy collections. Guaranteed to bring back a few childhood memories! Go to www.thecastle.co.nz for more information.

Rotorua (North Island) has many attractions, not least its stunning active thermal areas. There are 4 major areas of thermal activity – Whakarewarewa, Waimangu, Waiotapu and Hell’s Gate. See active geysers, hot mud pools and more. Go to http://www.ki-wi.co.nz/rotorua.htm for more information.

Craters of the Moon on State Highway 1 (North Island) looks exactly like it sounds, but actually incorporates a 30 minute walk around bubbling craters, mud pools and steam vents. Go to http://www.tourism.net.nz/new-zealand/about-new-zealand/attractions/natural-phenomena/craters-of%20the-moon.html for more information.

Huka Falls (North Island) is a spectacular waterfall from the Waikato River. You can simply enjoy the view or if you are feeling a bit more adventurous, then try a Huka Jet jetboat ride! Go to www.hukajet.co.nz for more information.

Swimming with dolphins is well worth a try. For the South Island, try http://www.dolphin.co.nz/kaikoura/ or http://www.blackcat.co.nz/dolphins.asp . For the North Island, try http://www.swimwithdolphins.co.nz/ or http://www.dolphinswim.co.nz/ .

There are sporting activities available all over New Zealand, unfortunately too many to put links to on here! There’s zorbing (where you are strapped inside an enormous clear, air-cushioned ball, and rolled down a hill – not for the faint-hearted!), surfing, skydiving, motorcycling, horse riding, canoeing, kayaking, 4WD and rallying, rafting, mountaineering and much more….. If you can think of it, you can bet the Kiwis will already be doing it!

There are hundreds of vineyards all over New Zealand, so if you fancy a slower pace, try wine-tasting, or simply visit a vineyard.