Wanaka is located near Mount Aspiring National Park in the Southern Alps. Situated by Lake Wanaka, New Zealand’s fourth largest lake, Wanaka is surrounded by majestic mountains in ever direction. It boasts of being a great spot to enjoy the outdoors and offers several hiking trails.
Category: New Zealand
Queenstown
Queenstown is where nature meets thrilling adventure. It’s situated on the shore of Lake Wakatipu, the longest lake in New Zealand, with the Remarkables mountain range rising dramatically in the background. It’s known as the adventure capital of the world and boasts of offering a range of activities including hiking, skydiving, paragliding, bungee jumping, white water rafting, jet boating, mountain biking and more.
Southern Scenic Route
The Southern Scenic Route is a 600km drive along the southern coast of the South Island of New Zealand, connecting Dunedin and Queenstown. This area is also known as the Catlins and it’s not called a scenic route for nothing. With plenty of beaches, overlooks, hiking trails and other points of interest, it’s a great way to enjoy the scenery and sights along the southern coastline.
Dunedin
Dunedin is located in the southern part of the South Island of New Zealand. Its name comes from the Gaelic term for Edinburgh as it was founded by Scottish immigrants. Their history and legacy can still be seen throughout the city from street names and Victorian and Edwardian architecture. Dunedin is also known for its abundance of wildlife, including seals, penguins and albatross.
Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park
Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park is located in the Southern Alps and features many majestic mountains. The most notable of which is Mount Cook, also known as Aoraki, which translates to “Cloud Piercer” in Maori. Standing at 3,724 metres, it is the tallest peak in New Zealand. The park also contains numerous glaciers which have dramatically sculpted and shaped the landscape, leaving behind valleys, turquoise rivers and glacier lagoons.
Arthur’s Pass National Park
Arthur’s Pass National Park is nestled deep in the Southern Alps. It was established in 1929 and was the first national park in the South Island and the third altogether in New Zealand. Arthur’s Pass gained prominence when gold was discovered on the West Coast in 1864 and a road through the mountains was built shortly after. While visitors today still deal with unpredictable weather, the road is paved now, and there are plenty of hiking trails and viewpoints to enjoy the beautiful mountain scenery.
Christchurch
Christchurch is the largest city in the South Island of New Zealand. It’s situated near a number of active fault lines and has experienced several significant earthquakes, most recently in 2010 and 2011. But it’s also known as the Garden City from its abundance of parks and green spaces. It’s also a lively city with a vibrant art scene.
Akaroa
Akaroa is a charming small town located on the Banks Peninsula on the east coast of New Zealand’s South Island that was formed by two ancient shield volcanoes. It was once a French settlement in the 1840s but their influence can still be seen around town today. Akaroa contains historic houses, small shops and restaurants, a lighthouse and a walkable waterfront.
Northland Region
The Northland is the northernmost region of New Zealand. It’s referred to as the Winterless North on account of its mild subtropical climate year-round. The region is famous for its winding roads, golden sandy beaches, beautiful coastal views and ancient kauri forests.
Whangarei
Whangarei is considered the gateway to the Northland region in the North Island of New Zealand. It’s a large city, the northernmost city in New Zealand actually, and has a subtropical climate. It contains plenty of opportunities to enjoy the coastal views and volcanic mountains.