Top 10 Tourist Attractions in New Zealand
Discover the must-visit attractions across New Zealand and how to get the best ticket deals.
1. Hobbiton Movie Set
Located in Matamata, the Hobbiton Movie Set is a must-visit for Lord of the Rings fans and anyone interested in movie magic. This perfectly preserved piece of Middle-earth offers:
- Guided tours of the 12-acre movie set
- 44 unique hobbit holes
- The Green Dragon Inn experience
- Evening dinner tours available
Best time to visit: Early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting and smaller crowds.
2. Waitomo Glowworm Caves
The magical Waitomo Caves offer a unique experience with thousands of bioluminescent glowworms illuminating ancient limestone caves. Visitors can choose from:
- Boat tours through the glowworm grotto
- Black water rafting adventures
- Abseiling and climbing experiences
- Combined tours with other local attractions
3. Milford Sound
Often called the "eighth wonder of the world," Milford Sound is a stunning fiord in Fiordland National Park. Activities include:
- Scenic cruises
- Kayaking tours
- Overnight cruises
- Scenic flights
4. Sky Tower Auckland
At 328 meters tall, the Sky Tower offers the best views of Auckland city. Attractions include:
- Observation decks
- Rotating restaurant
- SkyWalk and SkyJump experiences
- Night viewing sessions
5. Te Papa Museum
New Zealand's national museum in Wellington offers:
- Interactive exhibitions
- Māori cultural experiences
- Natural history displays
- Regular special exhibitions
6. Rotorua Thermal Parks
Experience New Zealand's geothermal wonders in Rotorua:
- Te Puia geothermal valley
- Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland
- Hell's Gate thermal park
- Māori cultural shows
7. Queenstown Adventure Activities
The adventure capital of New Zealand offers:
- Bungy jumping
- Skydiving
- Jet boating
- Skiing (winter season)
8. Franz Josef Glacier
One of the world's most accessible glaciers offers various experiences:
- Guided glacier walks
- Helicopter tours
- Ice climbing
- Hot pools
9. Bay of Islands
This subtropical paradise offers:
- Dolphin watching cruises
- Island hopping tours
- Historical sites
- Water sports activities
10. Tongariro Alpine Crossing
New Zealand's best one-day hike features:
- Volcanic landscapes
- Emerald lakes
- Guided tours available
- Stunning photo opportunities
Getting the Best Deals
Tips for saving money on attraction tickets:
- Book in advance through CheapTix for the best rates
- Look for combo tickets when visiting multiple attractions
- Consider shoulder season visits for better prices
- Check for student and family discounts
- Sign up for CheapTix alerts for special offers
Conclusion
New Zealand offers an incredible array of attractions that showcase its natural beauty, cultural heritage, and adventure opportunities. By planning ahead and using CheapTix, you can experience these world-class attractions while getting the best possible deals on tickets.