The Independent Voice of Southern Methodist University Since 1915

The Daily Campus

The Daily Campus

The Independent Voice of Southern Methodist University Since 1915

The Daily Campus

The Independent Voice of Southern Methodist University Since 1915

The Daily Campus

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7 Awesome Places to Visit in New Zealand

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Study abroad experiences are on the wishlist of many college students, and they’re the perfect way to spend a summer away from home.

If you’ve been looking into study abroad experiences or simply planning a vacay with your friends, New Zealand is the perfect place to visit.

While New Zealand is well-known for being the site where the Lord of the Rings movies were filmed, there’s far more to this beautiful country.

To learn 7 of the best places to visit in New Zealand, check out our guide below!

1. Goat Island

Goat Island is a small island near the coast of New Zealand’s North Island. Goat Island is famous for its status as a marine reserve, and it is the perfect place to go scuba diving or take a boat tour to get a glimpse of New Zealand’s extraordinary marine life.

2. For Wine Aficionados: Marlborough

If you’re of age and a wine enthusiast, you should make a visit to Marlborough while in New Zealand. Located on the South Island, it’s the country’s largest wine region.

Marlborough is well-known for its Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Noir varieties, but you are sure to find a glass you like no matter your preference. If you want to take a bike ride or a quick hike before a vineyard tour, check out the Queen Charlotte Track!

3. Christchurch

Christchurch, located on the South Island, is the perfect place to enjoy some of New Zealand’s natural beauty along with a dose of local culture! Godley Head is the perfect place to start. The hiking trail gives you a great view of the coast, and it’s common to see wildlife, such as penguins and whales.

While in Christchurch, make sure to check out the Isaac Theatre Royal. This Edwardian-styled theatre is a feast for the eyes, and it’s featured as one of the venues on NZVenues.co.nz due to its charm and glamor. Theatre-goers will want to make a visit during their trip!

4. Rotorua

Rotorua is located on a volcanic plateau on New Zealand’s North Island. It’s famous for its geysers, a unique geothermal location bustling with tourist attractions. While there are plenty of ways to enjoy the crater-filled town, Waimangu Volcanic Valley is a great place to experience it up close and personal. There are trails and walkways that allow visitors to see the craters and geysers safely.

5. Iconic Places to Visit in New Zealand: Milford Sound

Milford Sound is one of the best places to visit in New Zealand for a boat tour of beautiful scenery. There’s plenty of wildlife to see in this area, from penguins to fur seals to dolphins. Waterfalls run abundant as well, and the larger than life Mitre Peak is definitely Instagram-worthy. If you want to get your kayak fix, take a pass on the boat tour and take to the water yourself!

6. Tunnel Beach

Tunnel Beach is located south of St. Clair, and it is famous for its beautiful cliff overlooks and, true to its name, tunnels. The caves and tunnels here were hand-carved by pioneers, and they give visitors a unique way to explore the coast.

7. For Art Lovers: Wellington

Wellington is New Zealand’s capital, and it has just about every activity you could wish for. The Wellington Botanic Garden will give you insight into the plants native to New Zealand. There are plenty of weekend markets in the city, and an abundance of art museums, of which many are free.

An Unforgettable Experience

No matter where you end up in New Zealand, you will find yourself in awe of the abundance of culture and beautiful scenery. These places to visit in New Zealand will give you a headstart when planning your itinerary for your next trip!

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