20 Epic Things to Do in New Zealand for Nature Lovers  

New Zealand is nature’s masterpiece – a place where glaciers tumble into tropical beaches, towering volcanoes sit alongside primeval forests, and where you can find adventure around every corner and down every valley. If you’re a nature buff thinking of visiting for the first time, let this guide tell you about 20 mind-blowing experiences of Aotearoa’s wild, raw beauty. Are you ready to lace up your hiking boots or just grab your camera? Let’s explore the most epic nature experiences New Zealand has to offer.  

1. Trek the Tongariro Alpine Crossing  

Frequently referred to as the best one-day walk in New Zealand, the Tongariro Alpine Crossing is an adventurous 19.4 km trek over stunning volcanic terrain, active craters, steaming vents, and emerald green lakes. Nestled in Tongariro National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, this hike offers great views of the surrounding area and is a real adventure. It’s a hard hike and requires some decent fitness, but the incredible natural wonders you come across on the way make it worth the pain.  

2. Cruise through Milford Sound 

Milford Sound is a splendid fjord in Fiordland National Park known for its sheer cliffs, gushing waterfalls, and serene waters. Cruising here is the best way to fully appreciate the scale of the scenery when the chances are you’ll be joined by playful dolphins, seals basking on rocks, and the dramatic spectacle of Mitre Peak, which towers 5,556 feet directly out of the sea. Come rain or shine, Milford Sound has a haunting beauty that will leave an impression as one of New Zealand’s most iconic and memorable nature experiences.  

3. Explore Franz Josef Glacier  

The Franz Josef Glacier presents a rare opportunity to experience a glacier near sea level, in a temperate environment, swaddled in the moist warmth of a temperate rainforest, which shrouds the deep valley. Tourists can take the form of guided walks or helicopter-access heli-hiking tours, which land on the ice and show off otherworldly blue crevasses and ice caves. This is an active glacier, and one of the most swiftly moving in the world; Westland Tai Poutini National Park surrounding it will have you gaping at dramatic alpine landscapes and listening to bird calls.  

4. Walk the Abel Tasman Coast Track  

The Abel Tasman Coast Track is a scenic 60km tramp following pristine golden sand beaches, stunning native bush, and past crystal clear, tidal waterways. Perfect for walking, kayaking, or a mix of both, the Great Walk is an easily accessible coastal adventure. Sleep in beachfront huts or camp under the stars, and encounter native birds, seals, and astounding ocean views every day. It’s a sun-soaked nature escape that works for both new hikers and vets.  

5. Visit Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland  

Wai-O-Tapu, near Rotorua, is the most colorful and active geothermal area in New Zealand. Tourists can stroll among bubbling mud pools, steaming ground, and bright hot springs such as the Champagne Pool, which takes its name from its bizarre orange, green, and turquoise colors. This valley of hot springs and colored pools receives hundreds of thousands of visitors each year who are awed by the otherworldly beauty and the demonstration of the power of nature.  

6. Stargaze at Lake Tekapo  

Lake Tekapo is known for its astonishing turquoise water and clear night skies. As part of the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve, it offers some of the best stargazing in the southern hemisphere. Join a night tour at Mt John Observatory to gaze at constellations, planets, and the Milky Way, all unobstructed by light pollution. By day, the Church of the Good Shepherd and blooming lupins add even more magic to the scenery.  

7. Soak in Hot Springs at Hanmer Springs  

Nestled in the mountains of Canterbury, Hanmer Springs is a charming alpine village famous for its natural hot pools and relaxing spa experiences. Surrounded by forest and snow-capped peaks, the thermal pools range from soothing rock pools to energizing sulphur springs. It’s the prominent spot to relax after exploring New Zealand’s wilderness. Families, couples, and solo travelers will all find peace and rejuvenation in this scenic getaway that blends comfort with the surrounding natural beauty.  

8. Visit the Glowworm Caves in Waitomo  

Waitomo’s glowworm caves offer a magical subterranean experience unlike any other. These limestone caves are illuminated by thousands of glowworms that create a celestial ambiance on the cave ceilings. Take a serene boat ride through the glowworm grotto or choose a more adventurous black water rafting tour that includes tubing and cave climbing. Either way, the bioluminescent spectacle, coupled with ancient rock formations, offers an unforgettable glimpse into the natural wonders hidden beneath New Zealand’s lush landscapes.  

9. Climb Roy’s Peak  

Roy’s Peak, just outside Wanaka, is one of New Zealand’s most famous day hikes and a favorite among photographers. The 16 km round-trip trail ascends through high-country farmland and tussock grasslands to panoramic views of Lake Wanaka, the Southern Alps, and Mt Aspiring. Though the climb is steep and physically demanding, the view from the top is worth every step. Hikers are rewarded with one of the most iconic photo opportunities in the country, especially at sunrise or sunset.  

10. Discover the Blue Pools of Haast Pass  

Tucked away in Mount Aspiring National Park, the Blue Pools are a striking natural attraction fed by glacial waters that are vividly clear and blue. An easy 1.5 km walk through beech forest and across swing bridges leads you to this pristine oasis. Dip your toes in the icy waters, take in the tranquil setting, or marvel at the fish swimming below. The Blue Pools are a refreshing stop on the scenic Haast Pass drive, ideal for nature photography and peaceful reflection. 

11. Wildlife Watching on the Otago Peninsula  

The Otago Peninsula is one of New Zealand’s premier wildlife destinations, offering close encounters with some of the country’s rarest species. Home to yellow-eyed penguins, royal albatrosses, sea lions, and fur seals, this region combines rugged coastal beauty with unique ecological value. Join a guided eco-tour or visit the Royal Albatross Centre to learn more about these fascinating creatures. With its rolling hills, windswept beaches, and thriving marine life, the peninsula is a must-visit for wildlife enthusiasts and bird watchers.  

12. Visit Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park  

Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park is a paradise for hikers, climbers, and stargazers. Dominated by New Zealand’s highest peak, the park offers dramatic alpine scenery with glaciers, snowfields, and turquoise glacial lakes. The popular Hooker Valley Track is a relatively easy walk that provides stunning views of Mt Cook and its surrounding peaks. The region is also part of the Dark Sky Reserve, making it ideal for night photography. This park encapsulates the wild majesty of New Zealand’s South Island.  

13. Wander Through the Redwoods in Rotorua  

The Whakarewarewa Redwoods Forest in Rotorua is a tranquil escape filled with towering Californian redwoods and lush undergrowth. The forest features multiple walking and mountain biking trails suitable for all ages and abilities. One of the highlights is the Redwoods Treewalk, an elevated walkway that winds through the forest canopy. At night, the tree walk transforms into a magical light installation. Whether you’re seeking peace or adventure, the Redwoods offer a unique and immersive natural experience in the heart of Rotorua.  

14. Take a Jet Boat Safari on the Dart River  

Experience New Zealand’s wilderness in a thrilling new way with a jet boat safari on the Dart River near Glenorchy. This high-speed adventure zooms through braided river systems framed by the soaring peaks and dense forests of Mount Aspiring National Park. In between adrenaline-pumping moments, your guide will share insights about the area’s geology, history, and native flora and fauna. It’s an exciting and educational way to explore one of the country’s most remote and beautiful natural areas.  

15. Cycle the Otago Central Rail Trail  

The Otago Central Rail Trail is a 152 km cycling route that winds through historic gold-mining towns, expansive farmlands, and rugged gorges. Following a former railway line, it’s a leisurely ride with gentle gradients and well-maintained paths, perfect for first-time bike tourers. Along the way, you can stop at charming cafes, country pubs, and boutique accommodations. The trail offers an immersive look at New Zealand’s rural landscapes, heritage, and hospitality, all at a relaxed and enjoyable pace.  

16. Explore Cape Reinga and the Giant Sand Dunes  

Cape Reinga, located at the northern tip of the North Island, is a place of spiritual and geographical significance. It marks the meeting point of the Pacific Ocean and the Tasman Sea, a dramatic convergence often visible in the water. Nearby, the Te Paki Sand Dunes offer the chance to sandboard down massive golden slopes. Cape Reinga is also a sacred site in Māori culture, believed to be the departure point of spirits. It’s a powerful and beautiful place to visit.  

17. Kayak in Marlborough Sounds  

Marlborough Sounds is a labyrinth of sunken river valleys filled with calm, sheltered waters and lush, forested hillsides. Kayaking here offers a peaceful way to explore hidden coves, remote beaches, and marine life such as dolphins, rays, and seabirds. Whether on a guided tour or a self-planned trip, paddling through the Sounds lets you connect intimately with the natural environment. With minimal waves and stunning scenery at every turn, it’s an unforgettable coastal adventure for nature enthusiasts.  

18. Visit the Moeraki Boulders  

The Moeraki Boulders are enormous, spherical stones scattered along Koekohe Beach on the Otago coast. Formed over millions of years, these geological marvels are a fascinating natural phenomenon. The boulders are best visited at low tide when they’re most visible, and sunrise provides the perfect lighting for photography. Local legends describe the boulders as remnants of a voyaging canoe, adding cultural intrigue. Their mysterious shapes and coastal setting make them a must-see for anyone exploring New Zealand’s unique natural heritage.  

19. Go Whale Watching in Kaikōura  

Kaikōura is a world-renowned destination for marine life encounters, especially whale watching. Located where a deep ocean trench lies close to shore, it’s one of the few places on Earth where these different kinds of whales can be seen year-round. Tours also frequently spot humpback whales, orcas, dusky dolphins, and albatrosses. With the snow-capped Kaikōura ranges in the background, this coastal town offers an incredible setting for wildlife lovers and photographers alike. Learn from knowledgeable guides while witnessing nature at its most majestic.  

20. Trek Through Rakiura / Stewart Island  

Rakiura/Stewart Island is New Zealand’s third-largest island and one of its best-kept secrets. More than 85% of the island is preserved within Rakiura National Park, home to untouched forests, hidden beaches, and top-notch hiking routes such as the Rakiura Track. It’s also one of the best places in New Zealand to spot wild kiwi birds roaming freely in their native environment. Far from the mainland crowds, Stewart Island provides a serene and immersive wilderness experience that captures the essence of New Zealand’s natural soul.