New Zealand is home to some of the most exciting city tourist destinations around the world. Its cities combine modern infrastructure with a natural landscape and a clean environment. Tourists can find abundant attractions of all sorts: lush parks, high-adrenaline adventures, cultural and historic sites, plenty of excellent dining options, and many more.
In addition, New Zealand cities offer fantastic accommodation opportunities for every pocket, from Couchsurfing to luxury hotels. Transportation options are very convenient, and you can reach most locations within a city in no time.
So, without further ado, let us take a look at the best cities to visit in New Zealand.
Auckland
Auckland is New Zealand’s largest city. It offers a unique combination of modern-day architecture, leafy rainforest, amazing sandy beaches, and two sparkling harbors. This vibrant city is so full of interesting things to do that we have dedicated an entirely separate article to it. However, let us list below a few major Auckland attractions.
Visit the Sky Tower
Auckland’s Sky Tower is 328 m high, thus being the country’s tallest building. It offers various attractions, such as a full-fledged casino complex, a revolving panoramic restaurant and plenty of additional dining facilities, and a viewing deck at the top. The more courageous can try the thrill of sky jumping here.
Join a Wine Tour
New Zealand is famous for its wines, and Auckland is one of its top wine destinations. If you are a fan of the precious liquid, you must surely join a wine tour. A typical wine tour will include visiting the most prominent local vineyards, a trip to Waiheke Island, wine tasting, and shopping around for boutique wines.
Paddle in the Waters of Goat Island
Goat Island is a charming escape for all kayaking lovers. Located just an hour away from Auckland, it is easily accessible by car. You can rent a kayak and paddle around, enjoying the island’s beautiful sceneries.
Wellington
Wellington is the political center and capital of New Zealand. Its population of 400,000+ makes it the second-largest city. You will be charmed by its sandy beaches, dazzling harbor, and vibrant timber houses. The surrounding nature is also amazing, allowing you to relish plenty of breathtaking views. Wellington also offers excellent dining opportunities as well as a busy club scene.
Visit Te Papa
Te Papa hosts New Zealand’s national museum, where you can learn all kinds of stories about the country. It is an extremely intriguing place due to its innovative approach to exhibitions.
Ride the Cable Car
The Wellington Cable Car is famous throughout entire New Zealand. Not only is the ride itself a lot of fun, but it will also take you to several intriguing places, such as the Cable Car Museum, Space Place at Carter Observatory, and the Botanical Garden.
Stroll Down Cuba Street
Yes, there is indeed a street named Cuba in New Zealand, and what a street it is! This is Wellington’s artistic center for street performers of all sorts. It is also full of cafes, bars, and cozy little shops. You will find here the famous Bucket Fountain – a desired photoshoot destination for tourists from around the world.
Hamilton
With a population of 170,000 people, Hamilton is New Zealand’s fourth-largest city. It is located along the Waikato River and has been growing steadily as one of the country’s most desired tourist destinations. There are plenty of things to do in Hamilton, so let us quickly go over the most famous attractions.
Visit the Hamilton Zoo
The Hamilton Zoo is home to more than 600 animals. You will see here plenty of the native species, along with New Zealand’s largest free-flight aviary.
Tour the Hamilton Gardens
Hamilton boasts an award-winning unique botanical garden, where you can see five garden collections spread over 58 hectares. There is also the country’s first traditional Maori Garden, allowing you to observe various native practices and ceremonies. Make sure to check the working times and pre-book a tour if you are a group.
Taste the Hamilton Night Market
The Hamilton Night Market is a feast for all senses. You can try the endless selections of food delicacies each Saturday evening. The food varies from local dishes to authentic international specialties, and there is plenty of choice for every taste.
Tauranga
Tauranga is New Zealand’s fifth-largest city and home to 140,000+ local inhabitants. It is known for its relaxed style, beautiful nature, and pearly harbor. In fact, the name Tauranga means “a place of rest or anchorage.” Whenever you happen to be in this peaceful city, do not forget to visit The Strand – a focal point for all bar and dining lovers, the local Art Gallery, and the Tauranga Port.
Christchurch City
Christchurch City is one of the most popular New Zealand destinations. It boasts a unique mixture of rich history, beautiful sceneries, modern city life, and loads of thrilling adventure opportunities.
There are plenty of things to do in Christchurch City: stroll along the many gardens, visit the open-range zoo, book a Lord of the Rings tour, go hiking or sky diving, and more.
Other Popular New Zealand Cities
If you feel like traveling around, we have a few more options for you below:
- New Plymouth
- Whangarei
- Napier
- Nelson
- Dunedin
- Rotorua
- Queenstown