New Zealand is known for its stunning natural beauty and outdoor adventure opportunities. From hiking and kayaking to bungee jumping, there’s no shortage of thrilling outdoor activities to try here in this beautiful country. Here are some of the top picks for those looking for an exciting outdoor experience while visiting this picturesque nation.
Hiking
New Zealand boasts some of the world’s most stunning hiking trails. Popular hikes such as Milford Track, Tongariro Alpine Crossing and Abel Tasman Coastal Track offer breathtaking views of New Zealand’s natural splendor – from glaciers to waterfalls to rugged coastlines. These journeys will leave you with lasting memories.
Skiing and Snowboarding
New Zealand boasts an exciting winter sports scene, with ski resorts situated on both North and South Islands. The skiing season typically runs from June to October, offering a range of slopes suitable for skiers and snowboarders of all abilities.
Kayaking
Kayaking is a beloved outdoor activity in New Zealand, offering opportunities to paddle on lakes, rivers and even the ocean. Milford Sound, Abel Tasman National Park and Marlborough Sounds are just some of the popular kayaking destinations. Kayaking gives you an up close and personal view of New Zealand’s stunning waterways while getting up close with its unique wildlife.
Bungee Jumping
New Zealand is the birthplace of bungee jumping, offering plenty of chances to experience this thrilling activity. Kawarau Bridge Bungy near Queenstown is one popular location for bungee jumping with its 43-meter jump over Kawarau River.
Ziplining
Ziplining is an exhilarating way to explore New Zealand’s stunning natural landscape. Waitomo Caves on the North Island offer ziplining tours that take you through caves and over underground rivers. Queenstown on the South Island also has several zipline tours that provide stunning views of surrounding mountains and forests.
Skydiving
Skydiving is a popular activity in New Zealand, with several companies offering tandem skydiving experiences. From above, visitors are treated to stunning views of mountains, lakes and coastlines from above.
Surfing
New Zealand boasts some of the finest surf breaks in the world. The West Coast of South Island and North Island’s East Coast are popular surfing hotspots; Raglan, Piha, and Mount Maunganui being just a few popular surfing locations.
Rafting
Rafting is an exhilarating way to explore New Zealand’s rivers and canyons. Popular rafting destinations include Kaituna River near Rotorua and Shotover River near Queenstown. Rafting allows you to savor the rush of whitewater rapids while taking in breathtaking natural landscapes.
Conclusion
New Zealand offers an incredible variety of outdoor activities for adventurers. From hiking and skiing to bungee jumping, there’s no limit to the thrilling activities you can try in this stunning country. But remember always prioritize safety first and be aware of your limits; then you’ll be well on your way to an unforgettable outdoor experience in New Zealand!