Visiting New Zealand? 4 Experiences to Add to Your Bucket List

New Zealand is one of the most beautiful countries in the world. Along with a myriad of mesmerizing sights, there is also no shortage of memorable experiences in which to partake. Here is a list of four of the most worthwhile to add to your bucket list ahead of your trip.

Lord of the Rings film location tours

The Lord of the Rings film location tours have been attracting die-hard LOTR fans and tourists from far and wide for many years now – and for a good reason. They take you behind the scenes of the world’s most famous movie franchise. Think about the lands of Middle Earth, Hobbiton, and more. There are also countless types of LOTR film location tours to choose from depending on what you’d most like to see, as well as on your budget. Some of the most popular include:

• The Lord of the Rings half-day tour from Wellington
• The Lord of the Rings half-day 4WD safari from Queenstown
• The Hobbiton full-day movie set tour from Auckland
• The Lord of the Rings Vale of Wizards tour

Delve into the Maori culture

Paying a visit to Rotorua in New Zealand is an excellent way in which to delve deeper into the rich Maori culture that the country is so famous for. Here, you will have the opportunity to spend time in the local villages, including the Living Maori Village, located on a geothermal plateau and home to two Maori sub-tribes. You will be welcomed by the local Maori people themselves and introduced to their various traditions; this will often include the chance to savor a delicious Maori Hangi feast, roasted lovingly in underground ovens.

The feast is usually cooked for a few hours, resulting in tender delicacies and a host of colorful, healthy vegetables that will tantalize the taste buds, all the while providing you with maximum nourishment and energy to continue your exploration.

Hike the Tongariro Crossing

Those who love adventure and keeping fit will enjoy every second of their hike through the Tongariro Crossing in the Tongariro National Park. Keep in mind that this experience is reserved for those who have the athletic ability to endure a full day alpine trek. Prepare to sweat as the trek is estimated at just over 12 miles in length. The good news is that it will be well worth the effort when you take in the incredible rugged, mountainous vistas of the park as you move. The views are so stunning that you’re sure to forget you’re exercising in the first place!

View the Southern Lights

Catch a glimpse of the Aurora Australis and gaze in awe at the multi-colored marvel that draws in tourists from far and wide. The best place to view the Southern Lights in all of the glory is the Otago region, just outside of Dunedin, where clear, darkened skies act as the perfect backdrop.

Make the most of all of these experiences as soon as possible – book your New Zealand vacation today!