Beyond the Bach: 15 Must-Do Activities for Kiwis this Summer According to Viator Travelers

Kiwis from the South Island tend to think of Auckland as just about as far north as you can go. But don’t forget about the Northland peninsula, which extends about another 250 miles (400 kilometers) north of Auckland. It really is worth going the extra few miles beyond Paihia and the Bay of Islands to Cape Reinga, the northernmost tip of the North Island.

Cape Reinga is a long drive from the nearest towns, but guided tours eliminate the hassle of self-driving—this one stops for some sandboarding at the Te Paki Dunes on Ninety Mile Beach. Family holidays in New Zealand don’t get much more fun than this.

What one reviewer said: “It is quite a long day, but the driver (George) was extremely knowledgeable and kept us entertained the entire way with stories and Maori songs. I especially enjoyed the sand surfing and a hot cup of soup was a welcome surprise on our lunch stop.” Carl_M, October 2025

If you’re traveling around Northland in early February, it’s worth heading to Waitangi in the Bay of Islands for the Waitangi Day commemorations on February 6. (If the timing doesn’t align, Waitangi is always worth visiting regardless—this day pass gives access to the Treaty Grounds).

This is where the Treaty of Waitangi was signed in 1840 by representatives of the British Crown and a selection of Māori chiefs. All Kiwis should visit Waitangi at least once in their lives—and foreign visitors should, too. Learn more about New Zealand history through informative exhibits, and admire sweeping views across the Bay of Islands.

What one reviewer said: “It is important for everyone to learn from this experience—the history of NZ is relevant to the rest of the world too. Fascinating guide who was very knowledgeable and ready to share with us his experience.” Teresa_F, November 2025

Auckland is nicknamed the City of Sails, and it’s easy to see why if you spend any time around the CBD’s waterfront. New Zealand has a proud sailing tradition, and Kiwi sailors have shone in international competitions, including the prestigious America’s Cup.

Take in the city and harbor views and feel the wind in your hair from the helm of an America’s Cup yacht on Waitemata Harbour. You don’t need any sailing experience to enjoy this afternoon of sailing—sit back and let the pros do the work, or try your hand at steering the vessel. It’s certainly a unique summer getaway activity.

What one reviewer said: “Great staff who had us participate as true teammates! The staff was personable and made sure that you were able [to] participate at your own level of comfort. We had an amazing sail and experience! Would definitely recommend as the perfect Auckland adventure!” James_K, November 2025

Cathedral Cove on the Coromandel Peninsula is one of New Zealand’s most recognizable places, and a top destination in summer. In recent years, the walking track down to the beach has been damaged by storms and periodically closed, so check that it’s open before your visit.

However, to avoid disappointment (and the crowded beach on a busy summer’s day), plan to visit Cathedral Cove a different way—from the water on a kayaking tour. Paddle through the Te Whanganui-a-Hei Marine Reserve and look out for stingrays, dolphins, and other fish.

What one reviewer said: “Fantastic experience and amazing staff from the get-go. From start to finish we loved the friendliness, professionalism, and entire experience. Honestly, wouldn’t change a thing. I am so glad we did this tour, and got to explore Cathedral [Cove] from a kayak.” Scott_E, December 2025

Most of New Zealand’s top attractions are wholly natural—beaches, hiking trails, mountains, lakes, and rivers. A major exception is the Hobbiton™ Movie Set in rural Waikato. Originally built on farmland as a set for The Lord of the Rings movies, Hobbiton is a must-visit for Tolkien fans, although anyone with a passing interest in film and fantasy will enjoy roaming the manicured gardens and cute hobbit holes.

Full-day trips operate from Auckland and other cities, but this handy tour starts from the Shire’s Rest itself—the starting point of tours—making it a great idea for a New Zealand road trip.

What one reviewer said: “The most incredible time and an absolute bucket list item for any LOTR fan. Our tour guide was kind and knowledgeable and really encouraged us to take lots of pics and enjoy ourselves. Never felt rushed or like we didn’t matter (despite being one of many, many tourists). We learned so much about the set and the movie!” Dolores_C, December 2025

In the world of white-water adventures, New Zealand is a top destination because it offers everything from gentle floats to grade 5 adrenaline-fueled thrills. If you’re seeking the latter, head to Rotorua this summer to tackle the Kaituna River in a raft.

This river is in a different category as some of New Zealand’s other (albeit fantastic) white-water rivers because it contains the highest commercially rafted waterfall in the world, the 23-foot-high (7-meter-high) Tutea Falls. This white-water rafting tour isn’t one for newbies, but guides keep you safe and show you what to do.

What one reviewer said: “Don't be scared, the adrenaline rush is worth it. Gorgeous river; entertaining and safety conscious guides. The best day!” Leanne_C, December 2025

Although it’s white-water rafting’s lesser-known cousin, black-water rafting isn’t any less attractive. The Waitomo Caves are the only place in the world where this activity is offered commercially. Standard tours of the Waitomo Caves—with their millions of dazzling glowworms and dramatic stalactites and stalagmites—are great fun, but black-water rafting adds extra elements of adventure.

This tour gives you two options: to float along underground rivers and jump from waterfalls, or to zipline, abseil, and more thoroughly explore the underground world of the caves.

What one reviewer said: “This was excellent! I feared it would be a gimmick, and I’m so glad I was wrong. Our guides were funny, professional, and also made me feel safe. Highly recommend! Bring your own soap and shampoo for the hot shower afterwards.” Carolyn_G, December 2025

Practically every Kiwi has heard a Wellingtonian claim that “you can’t beat Wellington on a good day.” Far fewer Kiwis have actually experienced Wellington on that elusive good day. Perhaps this will be the summer when it finally happens and you’ll lounge on Oriental Parade in the sun without being blown into the sea by gale-force winds.

Alternatively, rent a bike to explore the hilly city, pedaling between Te Papa and the Zealandia Ecosanctuary, Weta Workshop, and the Wellington Botanic Garden. In the event of windy weather, this e-bike rental service makes it much easier to pedal an electric bike into a headwind.

What one reviewer said: “What a great experience. The store tech gave us a quick overview of the bikes and we were out the door. We rode the water line around the Wellington [Harbour] and it was AMAZING! I highly recommend this wonderful experience.” Dave_H, Apr 2025

Crossing over to the South Island now, Abel Tasman National Park is New Zealand’s smallest national park. The coastal park is fringed with golden-sand beaches, and its lower altitude—compared to the alpine national parks farther south—make outdoor adventures safe year-round.

The 3- to 5-day Abel Tasman Coast Track is one of New Zealand’s best long-distance hikes, but if you don’t have the time, relaxing cruises or kayaking expeditions along the coast make it easy to see many of the park’s highlights. This guided kayaking trip takes you to Split Apple Rock and out to the Tonga Island Marine Reserve, where you may see seals.

What one reviewer said: “We had a wonderful time exploring the beauty of Abel Tasman in the best way possible. We were lucky enough to see some dolphins and seals and enjoyed some memorable hiking and kayaking experiences. Many thanks to Tim and Fleur—our very generous and gracious guides!” Cassandra_W, December 2025

The South Island’s Marlborough district is sauvignon blanc central—New Zealand’s largest wine-producing region. Wine lovers and anyone who enjoys gourmet food should spend a day or two around Blenheim, sampling wine and eating at winery restaurants.

Standard bus tours are an easy way to hop between wineries as there’s no need for a designated sober driver. But for a more active alternative, rent a bicycle for a self-guided tour among the vineyards. The land around Blenheim is flat, making for an easy ride—even in Blenheim’s famously hot summers.

What one reviewer said: “It was great—I had an amazing experience! The organizers picked me up from my Airbnb and even dropped me off at the airport after the tour. [...] The ride and the tour were incredible, and the wine tasting was just perfect. I loved every minute of it!” Dipti_N, June 2025

In many parts of the world, the dramatic landscape around Kaikoura—with mountains plunging almost directly into the sea—would be the main reason to visit. But people flock to the small town in North Canterbury for more than the pretty views: They come to spot whales.

Kaikoura is one of the best whale-watching destinations in the world, as the deep canyons make this a feeding ground for sperm and humpback whales in particular. This guided whale-watching tour takes you out onto the open ocean and tracks whales so you have a good chance of spotting them.

What one reviewer said: “Our trip with Whale Watch Kaikoura was genuinely one of the most incredible wildlife experiences we’ve ever had. From the very start, the crew were outstanding. [...] They were constantly communicating, tracking activity, and adjusting our route in real time based on what was happening out at sea.” Millie_H, November 2025

With public transportation routes few and far between in New Zealand, most people get around in their own vehicles. But if you’re tired of driving, take the scenic TranzAlpine train which traverses the Southern Alps via Arthur’s Pass National Park between Christchurch (on the east coast) and Greymouth (on the west).

Ride the train the whole way, possibly picking up a rental car in Greymouth to explore the West Coast, or take this day trip that starts and ends in Christchurch. You’ll hop aboard the train to Arthur’s Pass, where a driver meets you for some local sightseeing before returning you to Christchurch by road.

What one reviewer said: “A wonderful chance to see the breathtaking sights up to Arthur’s Pass. We thoroughly enjoyed the scenic train ride and are still laughing about the audible Oohs and Ahhs of the passengers as we went in and out of the tunnels.” Raymond_C, November 2025

Dunedin’s neo-Gothic architecture, Scottish heritage, and wildlife-filled Otago Peninsula make it a great place to visit year-round (as long as you’re prepared for the cold southern climate). But an advantage of visiting in summer is that the university city is largely empty of students.

Nothing against the students—the University of Otago, New Zealand’s oldest, fuels the local economy with its 20,000-strong student population. But not every visitor wants to get caught up in the couch-burning shenanigans. This small-group tour covers many Dunedin highlights—including the peninsula and Larnach Castle—in just a few hours.

What one reviewer said: “Really enjoyed this tour. Chris was very interesting to listen to and very knowledgeable. Having a smaller number in the tour made it easier to hear everything and gave a much nicer feel for all of us taking part.” Regan_J, November 2025

While staying in or around Queenstown or Wanaka, take some time to get out into the beautiful Mt. Aspiring National Park. The 3- to 4-day Routeburn Track, one of the Department of Conservation’s Great Walks, passes through the park. But if you didn’t manage to secure passes to the Routeburn’s huts or campsites this season, consider visiting the park via packraft instead.

This tour from Wanaka drives you deep into the mountains, where you’ll then hop into a packraft (a lightweight, inflatable boat) for an adventure along the Matukituki River. Admire views of mountains, glaciers, forests, and braided rivers you couldn’t access any other way.

What one reviewer said: “This was a really well-planned trip [with] interesting commentary from the tour guides, and [we] got to see some back country that would be difficult to see otherwise. We had Sue as our driver and Kayleigh as our river guide [and] both were excellent!” Lloyd_W, January 2025

Despite its location in remote Fiordland National Park, in the South Island’s south-western corner, Milford Sound is one of the country’s most popular tourist attractions. This is partly because it’s accessible by road. But to appreciate Fiordland’s rugged beauty without the crowds, visit Doubtful Sound instead.

Farther south than Milford Sound, Doubtful Sound is accessed from the village of Te Anau, but there’s no road access—you have to take a boat across Lake Manapouri, then a bus transfer over Wilmot Pass to reach the remote fjord. This wilderness cruise, departing from Te Anau, takes care of the logistics.

What one reviewer said: “We did the tour when the weather was not good, so we feared the worst. But much to our surprise the tour was actually very nice. The rain created a huge number of temporary waterfalls and the clouds added so much to the mystic atmosphere of the fjord.” Kris_D, November 2025