Top 10 Backpacking Experiences in New Zealand

It’s not the cold air at these two world-heritage listed glaciers that will take your breath away – it’s the experience. Do not leave New Zealand without walking on the Fox or Franz Josef Glaciers on the West Coast.

Glaciers

Get ready to take a leap of faith. Queenstown is the birthplace of the bungy. If you want to push yourself to edge and beyond this is the perfect place to do it; take a deep breath and experience what so many before you have.

Queenstown Bungy

Queenstown is commonly regarded as the adventure capital of the Southern Hemisphere. It was here that both jet boating and bungee jumping were invented – and both are at the top of most thrill-seeking visitors’ to-do lists.

Jet Boating in Queenstown

A life changing moment can be had in Kaikōura, whose waters are teeming with whales and dolphins. All set against the stunning backdrop of the South Island’s spectacular Kaikoura Ranges. 

Kaikōura Nature & wildlife

With its beautiful secluded beaches, tranquil waters and rich marine life, Nelson Tasman offers some of the most awesome sea kayaking in the world. All trips are fully guided and no experience is necessary.

Kayaking in Nelson

Wellington’s wētā Workshop has produced some of the world’s biggest and best-loved films like The Hobbit, The Lord of The Rings, King Kong and others. While in Wellington, also make sure to check out Te Papa, New Zealand’s national museum and art gallery. Both are a must-do. 

Wētā Workshop Experiences – Tour

No New Zealand holiday is complete without a trip on one of our rivers. Have the rafting experience of a lifetime on the Kaituna river - whether its grade 4 or 5, we’ll leave up to you. Of course, you could always do both.

Rotorua

Rotorua is famous for its prolific geothermal activity, literally bursting with geysers (including the famous Pohutu Geyser at Te Puia, bubbling mud pools and hot springs. Meet the locals and experience the best of Maori culture from performances to the traditional food.

Rotorua Volcanic and geothermal

With its crystal-clear waters and inquisitive, friendly marine life, The Poor Knights Islands and Marine Reserve on the Tutukaka Coast are rated as one of the top dive areas in the world. 

Poor Knights Islands / Tawhiti Rahi