New Zealand has long been one of the most popular bucket list places in the world. Is it the wonder that lies within the country? Perhaps it’s people looking to learn about life on the other side of the world? Whatever the case, there are certain things every traveler has to see on a trip to New Zealand.
Thermal pools
Being a geothermally active country means that New Zealand is filled with plenty of natural hot springs. These thermal pools are a must-experience for travelers heading to the nation as they are a once-in-a-lifetime experience for most. Although they are found across most of the land, the best thermal pools are located in Canterbury, Taupo, and Rotorua, ranging from basic springs to those with spa facilities.

Cape Reinga
Cape Reinga is the northernmost part of the North Island that comes with a quaint lighthouse at the end – perfect for all those social media photos. It’s a highly spiritual place to the local Maori who believes that the recently passed leave the land through the 800-year-old pohutukawa tree. There are plenty of ways to enjoy Cape Reinga, including day trips or hikes to the area.
Watch dolphins
Believe it or not, but 13 different species of dolphin can be found across New Zealand, including some that are only found around the nation. Of course, heading on a boat tour is one of the best ways to see wild dolphins, but if you’re lucky, you might even spot some from the shore.

Take a paragliding trip
Paragliding trips are a great way to up the adrenaline on any trip and are a great way to see New Zealand from an entirely new angle. There are so many beautiful landscapes found across New Zealand, meaning there are always plenty of incredible things to see once you take to the skies.
Fiordland National Park
The largest national park in the country comes in the form of Fiordland National Park and has some of the best experiences across New Zealand. Cruises and kayaking trips give visitors an incredible way to see the area from the water, while the three Great Walks on offer mean visitors can get up and active on their trip. Just be sure to bring a jacket as the park is also famous for its rainy weather.

White water rafting
Of course, it wouldn’t be a trip to New Zealand without trying white water rafting, right? It’s often labeled as the best place to enjoy the sport in the world due to the clean rivers and host of rapids that fill the land. There are also several companies that take everyone from beginners to experts along the best river rides across New Zealand. In fact, those wanting to push things even further can even head on white water rafting trips that last several days.
The things every traveler has to see on a trip to New Zealand don’t just provide experiences that are out of this world; they also ensure that everyone gets to enjoy everything the nation has to offer.