10 Breathtaking Nature Wonders in New Zealand For Your Bucket List 2023
Posted by Maris on 30th Oct 2023
If there is one thing that puts New Zealand on travelers' lips and at the top of their lists of places to visit, it is its natural beauty. Nothing else on the earth has a wide variety of landscapes, amazing geological features, or a sheer quantity of sights that will make you halt in your tracks. These are the locations that will astound you from top to bottom of the land of the long white cloud.
1. Milford Sound
Milford Sound continues to astound visitors despite being surrounded by spectacular, soul-stirring natural beauty. The sound, which is concealed in Fiordland National Park, astounds visitors with its black waves, pointy peaks, and forest-covered cliffs. The glaciers that carved out this landscape, which is regarded as New Zealand's most magnificent natural feature, are responsible for it. So, what's the best part? You can spend the evening traveling over Milford Sound, sleeping while listening to waterfalls.
2. Pancake rocks
What elements go into the perfect pancake stack? What about flour, milk, butter, and eggs? Take a look at the following: Earthquake activity, erosion, and remnants of plant and animal life dating back 35 million years. Punakaiki, on the west coast of the South Island, has a population of 100 people, as well as the intriguing Pancake Rocks. During high tide, these old limestone structures, which resemble layers of thin pancakes, put on a stunning show for visitors. What else compares to the wind pushing the waters below into tunnels before erupting from vertical blowholes?
3. Waiheke Island
Close by Waiheke Island has a laid-back ambiance that offsets Auckland's vibrant large-city vibe. A tranquil haven with exquisite wines and sandy beaches is only a short ferry journey away from the mainland. What a winning mix! Auckland's skyscrapers look on enviously as little white sailboats bob on sapphire blue waters, while vineyards and olive trees give the island a lovely green tinge. This little slice of heaven will make it impossible to believe you were just an hour ago in New Zealand's busiest metropolis, whether you enjoy hiking to discover the best photo possibilities or relaxing on the beach with a good book!
4. Waitomo Glow Worm Caves
Looking under the surface reveals an underground realm lighted by a magnificent canopy of bioluminescent species. The Waitomo tunnels are a bizarre tangle of stalactites, stalagmites, waterfalls, and limestone formations, but it's the hundreds of glow worms that illuminate the tunnels that steal the show. Because the acoustics in the caves are so good, concerts are frequently held there, so take advantage of the opportunity to play out your opera singer fantasies in front of a glow worm audience. Don't bother singing in the shower.
5. Rotorua
Rotorua's geothermal activity physically erupts. Geysers erupt, mud pools simmer, and geological abnormalities dot the landscape. If you have any doubts that you are in Rotorua, the unmistakable sulfur fragrance will serve as a reminder. If you want to view Rotorua's geothermal wonders at their most stunning, go to Te Puia. Pohutu, the Southern Hemisphere's largest active geyser, has arrived. You won't have to wait long to witness this incredible show, which occurs approximately 20 times per day. Prepare to be astonished!
6. Lake Wanaka
Lake Wanaka has long been known for its tranquil waters and magnificent peaks, but it also offers something special that sets it apart. An Instagram-famous willow tree stands out from the lake's mirror-like waters at the southern end. The "Wanaka Tree" is one of the most photographed trees in the world, and with good reason. A photo of the sloping willow with the lake and mountains in the background should be taken.
7. Tongariro National Park
Tongariro National Park is a nirvana that blends all of the unique natural characteristics that distinguish New Zealand. A day spent here will reward you with breathtaking views such as snow-capped peaks and ethereal green pools that will last a lifetime. This World Heritage Site is crucial to the Maori people on a spiritual level, with its three mountains, Tongariro, Ngauruhoe, and Ruapehu, signifying the enormous spiritual connection between the population and the environment.
8. Lake Taupo
Lake Taupo is enormous, extraordinarily blue, and breathtakingly beautiful. The lake is not only beautiful, but it also offers a variety of enjoyable activities. Swimming, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and water skiing are popular water sports, while sailing and cruise cruises allow you to relax and take in the scenery. The beautiful 14-meter-tall carving on the rocks surrounding the lake by Maori artist Matahi Brightwell is a must-see while visiting the area.
9. Franz Josef Glacier
The Franz Josef Glacier, a stunning expanse of caverns, tunnels, seracs, and crevasses that fall from the Southern Mountains, is one of New Zealand's most breathtaking panoramas. You may walk within walking distance of this glacial grandeur, but if you want to engage with the glacier, you must board a helicopter. You'll never forget the thrill of exploring the glacier's ever-changing panoramas while surrounded by stunning alpine surroundings.
10. Blue Pools
"The bluest water you'll ever see!" is a phrase we frequently hear. Yet when it comes to New Zealand's Blue Pools, I'll guarantee you this water is maybe the bluest you've ever seen. The pools are a branch of the Makarora River and are hidden away deep within Mt Aspiring National Park.
They are surrounded by dense beech and podocarp forests. To view how clean the glacial water is, cross one of the two bridges spanning the pools. You're going to want to have your camera ready for this one, so take a quick but worthwhile stroll through the neighborhood to appreciate the pools from every perspective.