Summer in New Zealand is the perfect time to venture out and explore. The warm weather and festive mood make summer the most blissful period to enjoy the quintessential experience this island nation has to offer. From breath taking scenery to beach trips and hiking, the scope for enjoyment is limitless. Read on to find out the best places to visit and activities to do in New Zealand during summer that you will remember for years to come.
New Zealand has been a top tourist destination for many years now for good reason. The country has numerous interesting places to visit, including:
Bay of Islands
The Bay of Islands is located in Auckland, which is north of New Zealand. This truly magical place has over 140 islands to explore with pristine beaches that are perfect for relaxing after a swim. As you cruise through the blue waters, you can feast your eyes on marine life and even swim with the dolphins.
Abel Tasman National Park
Few places in the country have an atmosphere like the Abel Tasman National Park. Here, you can spend the day lazing around the beach or exploring the waters in a kayak on a hot day. You can also visit one of New Zealand’s great walks, stretching for 51 km with stunning views of the island.
Queenstown
Queenstown is the ultimate destination for adrenaline junkies and people looking to cross some activities off their bucket list. There’s so much to do here in the summer – from bungee jumping to jet boarding, paragliding, and even skydiving. And if you exhaust activities in Queenstown, you can always explore nearby cities of Arrowtown, Wanaka, and Cromwell.
Rotorua
Rotorua is the capital of all adventure in the Northern part of this island nation with almost all attractions located here. You can explore the numerous trails available on foot or with a bicycle as you do some bird watching. You can also enjoy some rafting and zorbing after a tiring session on the trails. In Rotorua, everything goes.
Mount Maunganui
Although Mount Maunganui has an extinct volcano, that doesn’t mean there is a shortage of activities to do there. The mountain in itself is quite impressive, with a beach located at one end of it. Apart from that, views of this coastal city from the top of the mountain are extremely beautiful, especially during sunrise or sunset. You can also surf, sunbathe and eat or drink plenty of items available
The Best Events and Festivals to Attend during Summer
Rhythm and Vines
If you want to usher in the New Year in style, the Rhythm and Vines festival is one you mustn’t miss. Held in Gisborne – the first city to get into the New Year due to its location in the Far East, this event lasts three days straight with a host of music artists keeping you entertained through good live music.
Wellington on a Plate (WOAP)
Food lovers can get a taste of New Zealand’s best cuisines and dishes at the WOAP festival. This food festival isn’t a one-place event as it takes place in numerous venues, including, car parks and laneways, restaurants, and other venues. Items served include burgers, cocktails, and even wine.
The World Buskers Festival
If you want to take part in an exciting event, the World Buskers Festival is a must-attend. The festival is hosted to showcase the rich cultural history of the Kiwi people, with numerous local, national, and international acts set to headline the event. You can enjoy some good music, laugh your ribs out with some good stand-up comedy or enjoy great art on display.