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15 Stunning Instagrammable Places in New Zealand

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Are you looking for the best Instagrammable places in New Zealand? We’ve got you covered!

From mountain peaks to turquoise glacier-fed rivers, sublime coastal views and the cutest hobbit hills, there’s nowhere quite like New Zealand when it comes to gram-worthy places.

New Zealand is a photographer’s dream, whether you’re just starting out or a seasoned pro, you’ll be spoiled for choice when it comes to visual experiences in Aotearoa. This scenic wonderland is right up there when it comes to the sheer number of images featured on Instagram.

So where exactly are these incredible spots?

Keep reading for a guide to the best Instagrammable places in New Zealand, including tips for getting the best photos.

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Table of Contents

Instagrammable Places in New Zealand

From the North Island to the South Island, here are the best Instagrammable places in New Zealand you won’t want to miss. 

A visit to Piha Beach is not only one of the  best things to do in Auckland , but it’s also one of the best Instagram spots in New Zealand!

Located on the west coast, about a 50-minute drive from Auckland’s city center, this iconic black sand wilderness beach is a popular spot for surfers and fiery sunsets.

The rugged cliffs, sparkling black sand and rough waves provide for a unique and stunning coastal landscape. Lion Rock sits in the middle of the beach, named for this lion-like shape.

Sunset is the ideal time for photos in the right conditions, just check the weather beforehand. Climb part way up Lion Rock for a good vantage point over the beach. Just be sure to climb down before dark.

Mount Maunganui

Mount Maunganui is a laid-back suburb on the North Island of New Zealand named after the extinct volcano that resides there.

Not only is it one of the best beaches in New Zealand for surfing and relaxing on the white sands, but the walking tracks to the top of the volcano provide 360-degree views that span the entire length of the peninsula.

You’ll find Mount Manganui in the Bay of Plenty region, about a 15-minute drive from Tauranga and 3 hours from Auckland. The best place to park is by Mount Manganui Beach and you can walk to the Mount from there.

The Waikorire track is the quickest and easiest track to the summit. It only takes around 30 minutes but don’t let that fool you. It is steep with a fair number of stairs so be prepared to get sweaty. However, the views at the top are worth the effort.

We recommend going for sunrise for the best light and fewer people. A wide-angle lens is useful if you want a selfie overlooking the landscape from the top and a zoom lens for bringing the landscape closer.

Hobbiton Movie Set

Located in the lush pastures of the Matamata district is where you’ll find Hobbiton (aka The Shire), and famous movie set of Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit.

You can visit Hobbiton on a tour that takes you through the hobbit village, past hobbit holes and across to the Green Dragon Inn.

Although only a 2-hour drive from Auckland, Hobbiton will make you feel like you’ve been transported to a whole other place and time. The attention to detail is impressive and easy to appreciate whether a LOTR fan or not.

The standard 2-hour group tours depart daily throughout the day and the most economical option. The Evening Banquet Tour will get you a guided tour at dusk as well as a banquet feast at the Green Dragon Inn.

Or if the budget allows, there are private tours available for a more intimate experience and plenty of time for photos.

Whichever option you choose, the photo opportunities are plentiful as you make your way through Middle Earth.

Tongariro National Park

Tongariro is New Zealand’s first national park encompassing three volcanoes and is one of New Zealand’s most iconic geographic attractions.

You can choose from a variety of walks to experience emerald lakes, steaming volcanic crates and ancient lava flows.

Located just over an hours’ drive from Taupo, the Tongariro Alpine Crossing is regarded as one of the best hikes in the world and the most popular hike in the North Island.

At 19.4 kilometers long, it’s not for the faint-hearted but arguably one of the most rewarding experiences. It will take a bit of planning and preparation though.

The walk takes about 7-9 hours in total and can only be walked as a one-way track. This means you’ll have to arrange for return transportation.

Alternatively, take the Taranaki Falls Walk to the Tama Lakes Walk for a shorter option. This 17.6-kilometer (6-hour return) walk takes you past Taranaki Falls, and through tussock fields until you reach the emerald waters of the Tama Lakes, one of the of most popular Instagram spots in New Zealand.

Whichever you choose, it will be a full day of adventure filled with unique landscapes to photograph.

Mount Taranaki

Mount Taranaki is up there when it comes to the most popular photography spots in New Zealand and it’s easy to see why. This dormant stratovolcano is a perfectly symmetrical cone with a snow-covered peak during the cooler months.

Add to that the surrounding landscape of golden tarns and still lakes with Mount Taranaki reflecting on its surface and you have a dream location for any landscape photographer.

Mount Taranaki is located on the western coast of the North Island. The nearest towns are New Plymouth, Inglewood and Stratford.

We recommend staying here for at least a couple of nights as the weather can be a little hit and miss at times due to the mountain climate.

One of the easiest locations to view Mount Taranaki is Lake Mangamahoe. It’s also the best spot for getting a shot of the mountain reflection in the lake. There is a parking lot and a 6km track that goes around the lake offering different vantage points.

Sunrise and sunset are the best times for photos. Just be aware there are gates that shut in the evening, from 8.30 pm in Summer (October to March) and from 6 pm in Winter (April to September).

Alternatively, the Pouakai Tarns is a scenic day hike with incredible views of Mount Taranaki.

The track is 11km return and takes around 4-5 hours to complete or you can stay overnight in the Pouakai Hut. You’ll need to book a reservation in the hut prior and is worth considering if you want to make the most of shooting at sunrise and sunset.

Lake Tekapo

Lake Tekapo is a small town and an absolute gem located in the South Island of New Zealand.

The quaint and rustic Church of the Good Shephard located on the shores of its turquoise blue lake surrounded by snow-capped mountain peaks is one of the most photographed landmarks in New Zealand any time of the year.

But it’s during lupin season which peaks in late November and continues through the summer months of December and January that visitors from all over the world flock to Lake Tekapo to photograph these colorful blooms.

It’s worth noting that as beautiful as they are, lupins are quite controversial in New Zealand. You see they are an invasive plant, not native to New Zealand, and have a detrimental impact

on native flora and fauna. The future of lupins in New Zealand may be unknown but for now, the best places to see and photograph them are around the shores of Lake Tekapo, on the road to Mt Cook and just across the road from Peppers Bluewater Resort.

Seasonal variations can affect how and where the lupins grow from year to year so if they are looking thin in some spots just drive around and you’re bound to find an Instagram-worthy shot.

Lake Tekapo is a good 3-hour drive from Christchurch and worth spending a night or two in this picturesque lakeside town.

Road to Mount Cook

The road between Lake Tekapo and Mount Cook National Park is one of the most scenic roads in New Zealand with plenty of photo opportunities you won’t want to miss.

After leaving Lake Tekapo, the first stop you’ll come to is the Instagram-famous road shot at Peters Lookout. It’ll be on your right-hand side and is well-signposted with a large parking lot to pull into.

Many people will walk onto the road so they can be in the shot but honestly, this isn’t a good idea. It’s a winding road with cars traveling at high speed. People hanging around the side and on the road is disruptive and dangerous.

Besides, you’ll have opportunities for road shots in Mount Cook, where the roads are less busy and straight, so you can easily watch for cars.

In my opinion, the perspectives from the top of the parking lot are better anyway. Walk around the edge of the grassy banks and get creative. Bring a zoom lens if you have one.

As you continue to Mount Cook, you’ll see several lookout points to pull over and get shots of Lake Pukakai and its insanely blue water.

Mount Cook National Park

Mount Cook National Park is just over an hour’s drive from Lake Tekapo and one of the best Instagram spots in New Zealand thanks to epic scenery and the country’s highest mountain peak standing sentry over the village.

It’s worth spending a couple of days in Mount Cook to explore the best day walks and make the most of sunrise and sunset photo opportunities. Plus, being in a dark sky region Mount Cook is an ideal place to practice astrophotography.

The Lake Tasman viewpoint is incredible for sunrise. It’s located just outside Mount Cook Village at the end of Tasman Valley Road. Be sure to follow the signs for the Tasman River trail (not the lake).

This brings you to where the river meets the lake and is the magic spot for sunrise photos. There are a few rocks to scramble down to get to the lake’s edge so be sure to bring a head torch!

For sunset, head to Hooker Lake. Located at the end of the Hooker Valley track, this popular walking track will take through some of the most spectacular scenery, lookouts and over swing bridges for plenty of incredible photo opportunities.

At the end of the track is where you’ll find Hooker Lake, complete with icebergs floating in the glacial waters and Mt Cook as the backdrop.

It takes around 1.5 to 2 hours to get there depending on how many photo stops you make (3-4 hours return), but it’s an easy track with little elevation gain offering a huge effort-to-reward ratio.

The Blue Pools Track is a short and easy walk through native forest and over swing bridges to view the pristine glacial blue waters of the Makarora River, known as the Blue Pools.

It’s a one-hour drive from Wanaka to the Blue Pools in the South Island. The road to get there snakes along the shores of Lake Hawea, with lookout points along the way to stop for photos.

It’s best to go early in the morning on a clear day. Heavy rain stirs up the sediment and turns the pools into a murky color.

The best photos are from the second bridge. You can turn left just before the bridge and follow the path down to the beach area for views from the shoreline. Before heading down, head onto the suspension bridge for incredible views of the bluest water you’ll possibly see.

Be sure to bring a towel if you plan on taking a swim (its glacier fed and freezing but oh so refreshing!) and bug spray. The Blue Pools is a hotspot for sandflies.

If you’re on Instagram chances are you’ve seen plenty of images taken from Roy’s Peak, New Zealand’s most photographed viewpoint.

Located a short 15-minute drive from the outdoorsy town of Wanaka, and a little over an hour from Queenstown, it’s a tough climb but the reward is so worth it!

It takes around 3 hours to reach the famous lookout point and is an uphill slog the entire way. It’s also very popular, especially in the peak summer months. We recommend hiking Roy’s Peak for sunrise.

Not only for the best light for photos but also to avoid the crowds, snag a parking spot and beat the heat.

It probably goes without saying that the best photos are from the famous lookout point. You can’t miss it. Bring a wide-angle and zoom lenses for all the possibilities.

If there are other people there taking photos, form the line at the top of the track. This way you can get photos with the leading line of the path to the lookout without other people in your shot.

Note: The Roy’s Peak track is closed for lambing season every year from 1st October to 10th November.

That Wanaka Tree

This lonely willow tree located at the southern end of the lake is so Instagram famous it has its own hashtag (#thatwanakatree).

Not only is it positioned with a stunning backdrop but the tree itself is truly unique, having started as a fencepost over 80 years ago.

One of the posts of a fence that was built around the shore of the lake was fashioned from a branch of a willow tree. The fencepost took root in the sandy lake soil despite unfavorable conditions and became the willow tree you see today.

Sadly, the lower branch was cut off in an act of vandalism in 2020 but what remains is still beautiful and an Instagram-worthy destination. It’s an easy stroll to the lake if you are staying in Wanaka or about an hour’s drive from Queenstown.

It’s a beautiful location to photograph in any season, especially in fall with golden surrounds and winter with snowcapped mountain peaks. A zoom lens and filters for long exposure photography will get you the best shots.

Onsen Hot Pools

New Zealand knows how to do hot pools and the Onsen Hot Pools are a must-do experience  when visiting Queenstown . The private cedar-lined hot tubs are housed in private rooms with panoramic views overlooking the mountains and Shotover River.

A standard soak lasts for 60 minutes and there are plenty of sessions throughout the day starting from 9 am. The hot tubs are beautiful to photograph at any time. Although the lighting at the end of the day tends to have a soft, warm glow.

Sunset bookings include Japanese lanterns around the hot pool creating a golden glow once the sun has set and an opportunity to photograph the hot pools with the night sky, weather permitting.

The Onsen Hot Pools are located on Arthurs Point Road, a 10-minute drive from Queenstown or you can take their free shuttle bus to and from central Queenstown.

Just be sure to request transportation when making you’re booking if you plan on taking the shuttle bus.

Glenorchy Shed

Head to the Glenorchy Wharf to photograph the iconic little red shed on the beautiful lakefront.

The Glenorchy red shed was originally built in the 1860s for the New Zealand Railways and used to store goods. Today, it is a well-known landmark and popular photo stop.

Take a walk to the end of the jetty for sweeping views of Lake Wakatipu and the Humboldt Mountains.

Glenorchy is a 45-minute drive from Queenstown along one of the most scenic roads in the South Island. Be sure to leave extra time to stop for photos along the way.

We recommend visiting the red shed early in the morning to avoid the crowds and tour buses.

Milford Sound

Milford Sound tops the list of must-see places in New Zealand. With its towering peaks, hundreds of waterfalls, lush rainforests, and majestic fjords it’s one of the most spectacular Instagram spots in New Zealand.

A boat cruise through the fjord is one of the most popular  things to do in Milford Sound  for good reason. The boats will get you up close to waterfalls, among the cliff faces and if you’re lucky you may even see the dusky dolphins.

You’ll want all the lenses for this trip and a microfiber cloth to wipe away any water sprays.

The Secret Swing is another popular Instagram spot in Milford Sound. Although not so secret anymore since it’s now featured on Google Maps! It’s still worth a visit through. This rustic wooden swing has the best views of Mitre Peak from the shores of Milford Sound.

The closest town to Milford Sound is Te Anau (a 2-hour drive) and we recommend staying here for a couple of nights.

This will give you the chance to explore the many scenic stops, lookout points and hiking trails along the road to Milford Sound plus time for photos once you arrive.

Lake Marian

Lake Marian is a stunning alpine lake in a hanging valley that was formed by glacial movement many years ago. It’s one of the most picturesque landscapes in Fiordland.

If you’re an avid hiker, you won’t want to miss this stunning location deep in the rainforests of Fiordland.

The Lake Marian Track is located just off the main road to Milford Sound. This 3-hour return hike takes you past the Lake Marian waterfalls and through the rainforest to reach the lake. The track is considered a challenging route.

Although not a massive elevation gain, the track climbs steadily over rocky and uneven terrain that can be slippery. There are also a couple of sections where you will need to climb up tree roots.

Although a good level of fitness is required, the track is manageable if you take it slow, watch your footing and are prepared for the conditions. Once you reach the lake, you are rewarded with stunning views that are well worth the effort.

Although Lake Marian is accessible all year round, low hanging cloud or fog may obstruct the views, so best to check the weather before heading out.

You’ll also need to be mindful of avalanche risk during winter and spring. A clear day in summer or fall is an ideal time to visit.

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Final Thoughts: Best Instagram Spots in New Zealand

So there you have it! The best Instagrammable places in New Zealand. As a country known for its beautiful landscapes and untamed wilderness, there are plenty of awesome spots to take incredible photos for Instagram. Just don’t forget the spare camera batteries!

Want to check out other Instagrammable places around the world?

• 13 Impressive Rio de Janeiro Instagram Spots
• München Instagram Spots: 16 Most Instagrammable Places in Munich, Germany
• 19 Most Instagrammable Spots in London

Heather Marston is a New Zealand-based travel blogger who shares her adventures, travel tips and guides on her blog, New Zealand Wanderer. She can usually be found exploring hidden gems in the North Island, road-tripping around the South Island, or hiking New Zealand’s vast network of trails.

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Kate Abroad

20 Most Instagrammable Photo Spots in New Zealand in 2024

New Zealand is a country known for its spectacular scenery so it’s no surprise there are some phenomenal photo spots in New Zealand where you can take awesome pictures for Instagram. This post is your definitive guide to the most Instagrammable places in New Zealand as chosen by professional travel content creators.

To keep it fair, about half of these spots are in the North Island and just over half in the South Island and they’re roughly ordered north to south.

So wherever you’re planning to focus your New Zealand travels, there are plenty of incredible New Zealand photo spots to add to your itinerary.

Hole in the Rock, Bay of Islands

“The Hole in the Rock” is a memorable New Zealand Instagrammable destination located in the Bay of Islands at the top of the North Island . The island is called Motukokako or Piercy Island. It can be reached by boat from Paihia or Russell.

It is often part of a larger boat tour that also visits other islands in the Bay of Islands. A typical tour will last about three hours. 

Hole in the Rock features, as the name suggests, a hole in the face of a massive rock jutting out of the sea. Small boats can venture through the hole, which makes for an even more dramatic picture or video of the experience. 

The high vertical walls of the rock and the cave-like opening of the hole within it combine to create an effortlessly photogenic moment. Dolphin encounters are also common and an added bonus when travelling to the site.  

The summer months of December to February are generally the best time of year to visit Hole in the Rock because of the warm, sunny weather. 

By Merry Allison of Virginia Vacation Guide

Hamilton Gardens

The Hamilton Gardens make such a popular photo location that on weekends you’ll often find couples taking their wedding photos in the gardens.

There are dozens of gardens in the complex which are all themed based on a part of the world, period of history or type of plant life.

The best gardens for photos are the Italian Renaissance Garden (photo below), Indian Char Bagh Garden and New Ancient Egyptian Garden. If you want something a bit quirkier, try the Surrealist Garden which looks straight out of Alice and Wonderland.

Entry to the gardens is free although it’s best to check the Gardens website ahead of time as occasionally some gardens are closed for private events. They also have some tips for which gardens look best at each time of year so you can plan your trip (and outfits).

Hamilton Gardens is one of the most unique photo locations in New Zealand and a must-do on any day or weekend trip to Hamilton .

Hobbiton Movie Set, Matamata 

One of the most photogenic and Instagrammable places on the North Island would have to be the movie set of  Hobbiton  (also known as the Shire) from the popular ‘Lord of the Rings’ film series.

It’s a lot of fun to tour the village and take pictures of the homes. In the movies, this village was the home of the friendly protagonists, and the Hobbiton movie set today has 44 hobbit homes, farms, and gardens, and covers 5 hectares (12 acres)!

Any time of year is okay for a visit, and you don’t have to do any hiking to see the movie set, it’s just an easy walk. However, you do need to pay for tickets.

You can drive there yourself (it’s located 2 hours from Auckland), include it as a stop on a Waikato road trip , or there are also day tours by bus from Auckland . All in all, the Hobbiton movie set is one of the best places in New Zealand for photos!

By David & Intan of The World Travel Guy

The Blue Spring, Putaruru

Make sure your phone is fully charged for this one as you’ll be frantically clicking trying to decide which is most beautiful – the pool of the Blue Spring itself, or the bright turquoise streams, complete with cute floating birds, that flow from it. 

The Blue Spring is an underground freshwater spring that bubbles up into a picturesque pool. When sunlight hits the water a certain way it turns it the bright blue that gives it its name.

The Blue Spring is located a short drive from the towns of Tirau and Putaruru and easily accessed as a day trip from Auckland or a stop on the way to or from Rotorua or Hobbiton. 

Two walks along a path known as the Te Waihou Walkway lead to the main pool – the 5km route which actually takes about three hours round trip, or, the easy option – the 15-20 minute (each way) walk from the car park on Leslie Road.

Both walk you past gorgeous hills and clear bright blue water until you reach The Blue Spring itself. 

By Helen from  Japlanease

New Chums Beach, Coromandel

The  New Chums Beach  lookout is one of the best photo locations in the North Island. It’s located in the Coromandel Peninsula and is only accessible by foot. The walk itself takes no more than half an hour each way and is relatively easy. 

Starting at Whangapoua Beach, you’ll walk to the beach’s northern end until you cross a stream. This stream is best crossed two hours on either side of low tide so bear that in mind when planning your trip. 

Next, you’ll walk across the rocky shoreline until you reach the dirt track so best you have a pair of sturdy shoes with you. 

The lookout itself is located on your right before you reach the beach. The 72-metre-high summit is steep but doable and the view is so worth it! 

It’s best to visit New Chums Beach in the summer so you can make the most of the gorgeous beach.

The North Island is blessed with rather long, hot summers so you’ll have plenty of time. Just try to avoid the school holidays to beat the crowds, this place is more serene with minimal people around. 

By Sammy of My Blonde Bucket List

Redwoods / Whakarewarewa Forest, Rotorua

Originally planted in 1901, the Redwood (Whakarewarewa) Forest is made up of 6 hectares of California Redwood trees. This is one of the rare places in the world to experience these gigantic trees. 

The Redwoods are located only a 5-minute drive away from Rotorua, which makes it a great activity to do if you are staying in the area.

With many biking and walking trails ranging from 30 minutes to several hours, there is plenty to do here to spend a half-day exploring the forest.

One of the best experiences to do in the Redwoods is the  Tree Walk  where you walk through the forest on a suspended walkway high above the ground. This gives you an incredible vantage point to enjoy the 75-meter tall Redwood trees. The cost per adult is $37. 

By Jenoa from One Year Around the World

Lake Waikaremoana

Lake Waikaremoana is located in the northeast of New Zealand’s North Island, and is one of the country’s largest lakes. 

It’s an incredibly picturesque part of the world, offering up dense rainforest, spectacular viewpoints, gushing waterfalls, and some of the clearest water around. 

Even better: due to its isolated location, few tourists ever bother to make the trek out to the lake. Often, you’ll have some of the country’s best viewpoints all to yourself. 

In other words, it’s perfect for sharing on Instagram. 

Getting to Lake Waikaremoana can be challenging if you’re not comfortable with tackling gravel roads. There are just two ways to get to the lake: via State Highway 38, either approaching from the north or the south.

Whichever direction you choose, you’ll be traversing part of New Zealand’s infamous 90 km gravel road. 

The reward is well-worth the effort, however, as once you arrive at the lake, you’ll find yourself with a wealth of hiking trails to beautiful viewpoints.

The most scenic of these is found along the Lake Waikaremoana Great Walk . While the entire trail takes four days to complete, the most Instagrammable view can be reached via a day hike. 

SImply head to the car park at Onepoto Bay and then follow the signs up to Panekiri Hut. The ascent will take you up to 600 metres above the lake, where you’ll be greeted by panoramic views of the deepest lake in the country. 

By Lauren of Never Ending Footsteps

The Emerald Lakes, Tongariro National Park

There are several iconic faces of Tongariro National Park where people come to be astonished by what nature has provided. However, the stunning and wondrous views of the Emerald Lakes in the area, are always a highlight for visitors to the region.

The Emerald Lakes go by the Maori name I Ngarotopounamu , which translates to greenstone-hued lakes. It’s the magical mix of volcanic minerals and sunshine that gives the Emerald Lakes their intense green colour.

The Emerald Lakes are on the Tongariro Alpine Crossing hiking trail and are seen just after you’ve reached the highest point of 1886 m.

The trek to reach the peak is a challenging but picturesque trail, that takes you through active volcanos and, at times, steep climbs. The total duration is 6 hours, starting from Mangatepopo point and finishing at Ketetahi point.

The Emerald Lakes are reached approximately halfway through, after 3 hours of walking. 

The hike can be completed during the whole year, but since the weather in the area is notoriously shifty you need a guide during winter and the lakes might be covered in snow.

By Josephine Remo

Mount Taranaki via Pouakai Hike

You’ve very likely seen that mega instagrammable spot in New Zealand with a mountain and perfectly placed tarn that mirrors the mountain. It’s a famous location and definitely a must-see when visiting New Zealand, but how do you get there!?

We’re sorry to report that this spot is not going to be an easy one, you’ll have to work for it!

That epic image is Mount Taranaki and the tarn that’s before it requires a hike to get to it. The best way to get here is to do the  Pouakai Circut hike  and to even spend the night at the Pouakai hut.

Here are the stats of this hike, spoiler alert, it’s a workout!

• Length:  25 km (15.5 miles)
• Difficulty:  Hard
• Time:  About 14 hours total (over two days if you stay at the hut/camp)

Now you could do this in one gruelling day, no doubt! But if you want the best images, you’ll likely want to be here for sunset or sunrise (or both!) which is only possible by staying the night at the hut or camping nearby.

The hut itself is about a 20-minute hike from the tarn. There’s a beautiful boardwalk all around the tarn to prance around and get your shots.

Just be sure you’re not wandering off the boardwalks and trails as the terrain here is delicate.

By Nina of Where in the World is Nina?

Split Apple Rock, Nelson-Tasman 

Split Apple Rock is an unusual rock formation located in the shallow waters of Tasman Bay on New Zealand’s South Island. Nestled between Kaiteriteri and Marahau, two gateway towns to Abel Tasman National Park, it’s a popular natural attraction among tourists. 

The rock is made entirely of granite and gets its name from its round shape that looks like it’s been cleaved in half – like an apple cut down the middle.

Maori legend has it that the formation was caused by two feuding gods breaking the rock apart. 

Some scientists believe it resulted from a natural phenomenon known as ‘ice-wedging’ during an ice age 120 million years ago. This occurs when the water in the rock’s cracks freezes causing it to expand and split open.

Water erosion from the sea could have also forced the already-cracking granite open over time. 

You can reach Split Apple Rock by following a 15-minute walking track via Towers Bay and wading out to it at low tide.

Alternatively, you can see it as part of a scenic nature cruise or kayaking tour from Kaiteriteri Beach. These are the best options as you’re less likely to disturb the birds on the rock. 

By Francesca of Little Lost Travel

Church of the Good Shepherd, Lake Tekapo

New Zealand might not have the same kind of spectacular cathedrals you see in Europe but it does have one famously beautiful church.

The Church of the Good Shepherd is found on the shores of Lake Tekapo, in the South Island, and the small chapel is the perfect counterpoint to the majestic mountains and vivid blue lake.

The colours of Lake Tekapo have to be seen to be believed, even the photo below looks edited but it really is that blue. If you visit in season, you’ll also get rows of purple lupin lining the lake to make things even prettier.

Lake Tekapo is just under 3 hours drive from Christchurch and is a must-do on any Christchurch-Queenstown road trip .

There are also daily buses from Christchurch if you’re travelling New Zealand without a car .

Highway 80, Mount Cook National Park

One of the most famous and Instagrammable views in New Zealand can be found on Highway 80 to Mount Cook along the shores of Lake Pukaki. You will follow this highway for about 35 miles along the lake on your way to Mount Cook Village.

As you drive this road the mountain will look like it’s right in your face, even though it’s dozens of miles away.

The view is stunning year-round, but for the best chance of good weather, the summer is your best bet for visiting Mount Cook.

There’s one scenic turnout you can stop at, but the best views are right from the road. With the sun shining on the mountain, it can look purely stunning. 

The road is usually not busy at all, and you can take photos of yourself in the middle of the road, the mountain right behind you.

For the best perspective get the camera right down on the asphalt. You’ll be the envy of your friends with the amazing pictures from the road to Mount Cook! 

By Chris of Around The World With Me

Milford Sound  

Milford Sound is one of the most iconic natural landmarks on the South Island and the most visited among travellers in Queenstown .

There are  different ways to get to Milford Sound : A scenic flight takes about 30 minutes that include a dramatic bird’s-eye view of the surrounding region and Mitre Peak. A bus ride takes about 4 hours, and it is also possible to take a hike on one of the many trekking trails starting from Te Anau. 

One of the best ways to experience the otherworldly beauty of Milford Sound is by hopping on a scenic cruise and taking a closer look at the plunging cliffs, raging waterfalls, and wildlife.

The cruise takes off at the Milford Sound pier – and since it is located at the deep end of the Sound, it is wonderful to capture the entire Sound. 

There are several companies that offer boat tours , from half-day to overnight which you can book through Klook or in person from one of the many agencies in Queenstown. 

By Kenny of Knycx Journeying  

Wanaka Lavender Farm

The Wanaka Lavender Farm is the perfect setting for taking Instagram photos in New Zealand. A lavender field is already a beautiful place, but the family behind the farm know how to make it even more photogenic.

There are 20 acres of fields to wander through, some with mountain backdrops, and props like a door to nowhere, and a purple tractor.

You can also meet the farm animals and shop for lavender and honey products, or enjoy herbal tea and lavender ice cream. 

Located just 5 minutes drive from the town centre, visiting Wanaka Lavender Farm  is easy and while you do need to pay to enter it’s a small fee for the experience and the chance to take some stunning photographs.

The plants will begin to bloom in October and last through to March, but it’s best to visit at the height of the summer to see them all in full bloom. We recommend going early to beat any crowds. 

By Sonja of Migrating Miss

Roys Peak, Wanaka

Perhaps  the  most Instagrammable place in New Zealand, Roys Peak is on the South Island, in a popular alpine village called Wānaka.

To get to the iconic lookout, you’ll need to walk a steep in-and-out track which is 16km return.  Over the course of the walk, you’ll gain approximately 1,500m in elevation. 

The track itself isn’t much to get excited about but the views certainly are. Towards the end of the trail, the vista is absolutely spectacular, taking in Lake Wānaka and the Southern Alps, including Mount Aspiring.

Though the track is challenging due to its persistent elevation gain, it is achievable for most people – it’s just a matter of taking a little longer as required. 

The track is exposed to the elements, however, so it is important to be well prepared with sun protection, clothing to suit the conditions and plenty of snacks.

As one of the  best Wānaka walks , and with its mind-blowing views, Roys Peak is a must-do on any New Zealand itinerary.

By Sarah of New Zealand Travel Tips

That Wanaka Tree

This lone tree in Wanaka is one of the most visited in New Zealand. It is located in Mount Aspiring National Park where there are many outdoor activities to do. 

This area is best for hiking and biking as there are many trails around like the Roys Peak Track, a medium-hard hiking trail (16 km long).

If you want to see lagoons, you can hike the Blue Pools Track, another Instagrammable place in New Zealand.

To get to #ThatWanakaTree (yes, it’s a popular hashtag), you can rent a car and drive to Lake Wanaka. The best parking space is the Wanaka Watersports Facility.

Once you are there, you can either walk or rent a bike. There is a bicycle trail along Lake Wanaka which is a highly recommended way to see the Wanaka Tree.

The best time to  visit Wanaka  is from December to mid-March when Wanaka experiences great weather and sunny skies.

This is also the summer season in New Zealand (opposite weather to North America) so you can escape the harsh winters in Europe and the US during these months. 

By Trisha of PS I’m On My Way

Twelve Mile Delta, Queenstown Lakes

New Zealand’s South Island is peppered with filming locations from Hollywood Blockbusters, especially  Lord of the Rings .

A cluster of these can be found in the region of Queenstown, and a road trip around the shores of stunning Lake Wakatipu to Glenorchy offers even more. 

Twelve kilometres from Queenstown is Twelve Mile Delta, a location which is the setting for Ithilien in The Two Towers.

From the main road you are directed down to a large camping area from which you can walk to the locations where Sam and Frodo watch the oliphaunts.

The campground is the setting for the battle, vantage points not far off the main road offer a shot of the battleground and snow-capped mountains beyond Lake Wakatipu.   

By Holly from Globeblogging

Hokitika Gorge, West Coast

Seeing the turquoise waters of Hokitika Gorge is easily one of the best  things to do in Hokitika .

Just half an hour’s drive from Hokitika township, the gorge is surrounded by thick native bush and an easy 2 km loop takes visitors through the trees and down to the blue river.

Take photos on the swing bridges with stunning views across the gorge and make a short detour through a small gate, and walk to the rocks and a small beach at the river below.

Take note of the warning signs, as swimming in the river can be dangerous.

The track is quietest early in the day or late in the afternoon, although the colour of the water tends to be more intense around midday. Avoid visiting after heavy rain as the water looks grey rather than deep blue.  

By Roxane of Faraway Worlds

Omarama Clay Cliffs

Omarama Cliffs is one of the best off-the-beaten-track locations in New Zealand for amazing Instagram photos. It’s a secluded location that’s easy to explore while on a road trip on the South Island .

The clay cliffs were naturally formed millions of years ago, with spectacular shapes, and amazing viewpoints from both inside and outside the clay cliffs.

Just make sure to be careful when venturing into the clay cliffs, the path is often slippery with loose rocks.

It’s a 20 minutes drive from Omarama, turn to Quailburn Road off State Highway 8, then keep going until you see Henburn Road for turnoff! The entry is $5 to the donation box. Remember to bring cash for the entry fee!

By Angel of Angel the Wanderlust

Doubtful Sound

There are many stunning natural landscapes in New Zealand but one of the most beautiful is Doubtful Sound. The deepest of the fjords on the South Island, Doubtful Sound is an untouched wilderness with snow-capped mountains, still waters and soaring cliffs. 

On an overnight cruise, you’ll visit the most photogenic places, take a kayak out on the misty waters and watch out for bottlenose dolphins, penguins and fur seals.

The photo opportunities are infinite but perhaps the most beautiful part of the Sound is the Hall Arm where waterfalls cascade down the tall cliffs into the still water below.

Sunbeams and rainbows in the mist appear from time to time and the early morning sun creates a golden glow that highlights the serenity of pristine Doubtful Sound. 

A scenic bus trip across Wilmot Pass will take you from Manapouri to Doubtful Sound to meet your cruise boat or kayak tour.

By Linda of Muy Linda Travels

New Zealand Travel Resources

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• Sort your New Zealand dollars with a Wise currency card

Kate is the founder of Kate Abroad. She has travelled to nearly 40 countries from Austria to Vanuatu, and lived in 3. She's on a mission to empower other Gen Zs and Millenials travel affordably by sharing helpful travel guides, stories and tips to over 200,000 readers.

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The 21 Best Instagram Accounts to Inspire Your Move To New Zealand

Posted by Liam Witham | Wednesday, 24th November 2021 | New Zealand

If you’re thinking of moving or migrating to New Zealand, follow these Instagrammers and you’ll never be short of inspiration!

New Zealand is one of the most beautiful places on the planet. People from all over the world holiday here and many want to stay. If you are passionate about New Zealand and want to move to this incredible natural country, we’ve searched high and low to bring you the best Instagram accounts that will inspire your move to New Zealand.

Although New Zealand has been isolated during the coronavirus pandemic, the recent announcement of the relaxing of travel restrictions mean that moving and travelling to NZ is back within sight. These amazing photos should whet your appetite!

We not only have the best in travel and photography, but also the best in New Zealand food, design and turning your house into a home.

We’re willing to bet that if you’re interested in living in New Zealand now, by the time you’ve visited just a few of these inspirational accounts, you’ll be booking your flight to this amazing country!

21 Instagram Accounts to Inspire Your Move To New Zealand

1) @purenewzealand.

@purenewzealand is the official Tourism New Zealand Instagram page and, as you might it expect, it shares the very best inspiring images of this magical land. Simply breathtaking.

View this post on Instagram Sunset over the Sounds. #NZMustDo [📍Marlborough Sounds, South Island. 📷: @tom_hackett] #Travel #NewZealand #NZ #Nature A post shared by New Zealand (@purenewzealand) on Dec 7, 2017 at 10:30pm PST

2) @youngadventuress

American travel blogger, Liz Carlson, lives and works in Wanaka, New Zealand and shares her travel adventures on her Instagram page and in her Young Adventuress blog .

View this post on Instagram Don’t mind me, just hanging out here for hours living my best life ❤️ when I found out that my favorite people at @canopycampingescapes built a getaway on the West Coast, I knew I had to go ASAP! Woodpecker Hut is just north of Punakaiki and one of my all time favorite corners of New Zealand. Surrounded by lush native canopy, wild beaches and warm weather in winter, I can’t stay away. And did I mention the wood fire hot tub? Sigh, can I go back now please? #westcoastbestcoast . . . . #woodpeckerhut #canopycamping #glamping #nzmustdo #punakaiki #westcoast #newzealand A post shared by Liz Carlson☀️Young Adventuress (@youngadventuress) on Jul 30, 2018 at 1:46pm PDT

3) @shaun_jeffers

Featuring many images of Shaun’s native New Zealand, this page alone could make you want to move to New Zealand today!

View this post on Instagram Stars and that ✨ #newzealand #akl #nz #nzmustdo #auckland A post shared by Shaun Jeffers (@shaun_jeffers) on Aug 4, 2018 at 12:38am PDT

4) @backpackingmatt

The official Instagram page of American photographer and explorer, Matt Kyhnn. Here, you will find many beautiful images of New Zealand.

View this post on Instagram All packed for our first family camping adventure. Bring on swims, hikes, beers, BBQ and sun! 🏞🏕☀️ @goproanz A post shared by Matt Kyhnn (@backpackingmatt) on Dec 22, 2017 at 12:18am PST

5) @wingsofafeather

While not a New Zealand-specific page, Mindy Lamoureux has travelled the world and shares many of her New Zealand adventures on her page.

View this post on Instagram What is one of the scariest thing you've ever done? Jumping off the Nevis with @ajhackettbungynz is definitely up there for me! A post shared by ⇟Mindy Lamoureux⇟ (@itsmtntime) on May 2, 2017 at 1:03pm PDT

6) @chelebanks

Kiwi through and through, Michele Banks is a photographer based in Wellington and posts many local images of her home town.

View this post on Instagram Which way did the dog go, I wonder? 🤔😉 A post shared by chelebanks (@chelebanks) on Jan 28, 2018 at 8:52pm PST

7) @brentpurcell.nz

Based in Hamilton, Waikato, Brent Purcell shares some incredible long exposure landscape shots that show off the beauty of New Zealand.

View this post on Instagram Definitely in my Top 10 of Sunrises Good times with @debc_nz @shaun_jeffers @liamandrewmitchell 🍻🍻 ———————————————— NZ South Island Spring Lupin 7 day tour 28 Nov-4 Dec 2018 with @adingattamimi and myself Come join us here 🎉 only 2 spots left Link in bio _______________________________ ▪️Nikon D810 ▪️Nikon 14-24 mm F2.8 Lens ▪️F/8 ▪️ISO 560 ▪️30 second exposure ▪️️Edited LR/Insta ▪️Exploring NZ with @drivenewzealand _______________________________ A post shared by Brent (@brentpurcell.nz) on Aug 25, 2018 at 10:44pm PDT

8) @samdeuchrass

This travel and landscape photography Instagram page is run by Sam Deuchrass and he shares some inspirational and breathtaking photos of the New Zealand landscape.

View this post on Instagram Aurora Australis shining high over Dunedin. A post shared by Sam Deuchrass (@samdeuchrass) on Aug 27, 2017 at 2:01am PDT

9) @thehadlowgirls

The Hadlow Girls are five Kiwi sisters from Auckland who love to live it up. Follow them to see the fun side of NZ and get some great tips on where to eat and hang out. They have their own food blog  and love to get around but you’ll usually find at least one somewhere in New Zealand.

View this post on Instagram Perfect fix to get over your hump day 🍳 R x #HadlowGirlsAuckland A post shared by Hadlow Girls (@hadlowgirls) on Aug 14, 2018 at 4:36pm PDT

10) @forkingyum

Another food Instagrammer, Emily of Forking Yum offers up some of the best food in New Zealand and shares some secret spots that only the locals know about. She knows the best places to eat in Wellington and Auckland. Follow her to see what gastronomic delights NZ has in store for you.

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Emily (@forkingyum) on Feb 13, 2019 at 8:33pm PST

11) @barekiwi

If you’re moving to New Zealand for adventure look no further for inspiration than barekiwi. He has a GoPro camera and as you can see he puts it to good use!

View this post on Instagram @ajhackettbungynz just launched… literally launched # their newest adrenaline fix. THE NEVIS CATAPULT! Who’s keen? #LiveMoreFearLess @purenewzealand #NZmustDo @goproanz squad @logandodds – @samevanslife – @edringwood -@sarahs_day – @kjtilse – @caiocastro #GoPro A post shared by Kyle Mulinder | New Zealand (@barekiwi) on Aug 7, 2018 at 3:46pm PDT

12) @studiohome

Julia Atkinson an interior designer and blogger from Christchurch, shares her adventures throughout New Zealand as she meets many interesting and inspiring people along the way. She also proves you can still be at the forefront of style and design living in New Zealand.

View this post on Instagram On Sunday I went on a romantical architectural date with my pal @helloalexfulton where, thanks to the organization of @coca.chch, we had the total pleasure of touring some of @christchurchnz’s residential, modernist gems. I’ve popped a big story up for you to trawl! My main takeaways were: 💙The feeling of space is more in design than square footage 💙 Pay as much attention to your ceilings as you would your floors 💙 Built in furniture, mezzanine spaces, sky lights, split levels and higher ceilings make for a delicious place to live!!! 💙💙 #christchurchnz #modernistarchitecture #modernistinteriors #interiordesign #nzhomes #newzealandhomes #realhomes A post shared by Studio Home ⦁ Ju Atkinson-Dunn (@studiohome) on Aug 13, 2018 at 3:51pm PDT

13) @newzealandvacations

One of the post popular NZ Instagram accounts with over 150,000 followers, New Zealand vacations showcases the best of Aotearoa. A great source of Kiwi Instgrammers as they compile and credit the very best photos which is no easy task! Follow this account and we’re sure you’ll want to be permanently on vacation in New Zealand!

View this post on Instagram Swimming with the sandflys at Milford Sound @jess.wandering A post shared by NEW ZEALAND (@newzealandvacations) on Apr 1, 2018 at 11:08pm PDT

14) @yourhomeandgarden

Showcasing New Zealand’s most beautiful homes, Your Home and Garden’s Instagram will give you some interior decorating ideas for your own home.

View this post on Instagram Rachael Risdon and Simon Beeton patiently restored their cottage after the 2011 Christchurch earthquakes left it on the verge of collapse, and the results are stunning. See more pics at the link in our bio. Photo @kateclaridgephotography #cottage #christchurch #restoration #reno A post shared by Your Home and Garden (@yourhomeandgarden) on Aug 5, 2018 at 2:01am PDT

15) @Auckland_Mag

This is the Instagram account of Auckland Magazine, whilst it’s mainly focused on Auckland and the surrounding area, we love it’s mix of inspirational photos, great places to eat and daily life in NZ (which does seem to focus on beautiful scenery and irresistible food!)

View this post on Instagram Morning Fog 🌇 #Auckand @stephen_c_123 #AucklandMag A post shared by Auckland Magazine (@auckland_mag) on Aug 27, 2018 at 4:16pm PDT

16)   @exploringnewzealand_

This is definitely one our favourite New Zealand Instagram accounts for truly stunning and inspirational views of the beauty of Aotearoa . It is another compilation account but it’s popularity means they get the best of the best photos and videos.

View this post on Instagram Today we’re bringing you @exploringnewzealand_’s four favourite places to watch the stars ✨ 1. Queenstown 2. Moke Lake 3. Wanaka Tree 4. Tasman Lake And don’t worry, they’re all quite close together! Could make a road trip out of it 😉 Which one are you going to lock in first? 🔒 📷 @south_of_home . . . #exploringnewzealand #exploringnz #exploringourglobe #explorenewzealand #nz #newzealand #kiwi #exploring #explorer #explore #newzealandfinds #newzealandguide #auckland #wellington #wanaka #christchurch #queenstown #southisland #travelphotgraphy #roadtrip #instatravel #travelgram #bruzzy #milkyway #lowlightphotography A post shared by Exploring New Zealand (@exploringnewzealand) on Feb 13, 2019 at 12:06am PST

17) @homestolovenz

If you want to move to New Zealand, you will want to find a home and Homes to Love NZ’s Instagram page is a good place to start.

View this post on Instagram Measuring just 40-square-metres in size, this foldaway holiday home in the Coromandel packs a powerful design punch. Follow our link in bio to see more. 📷Jackie Meiring. . . . . . #homestolovenz #tinyhouse #architecture #nzarchitecture #design A post shared by Homes to Love NZ (@homestolovenz) on Aug 3, 2018 at 10:00pm PDT

18)   @indiehomecollective

Once you move to New Zealand, you will need to furnish your new home and the Indie Home Collective in Newmarket, Auckland, carries a wide range of beautiful and unique home décor.

View this post on Instagram Beautiful calm lounge space we created with pieces from our latest shipment. Pop in to see us, we can help you recreate it in your own home. Cx A post shared by INDIE HOME COLLECTIVE (@indiehomecollective) on Jun 8, 2018 at 2:47pm PDT

19)  @airnz

Air New Zealand’s official Instagram page offers images of planes, inspirational travel quotes and more. Everything someone planning a move to New Zealand could want!

View this post on Instagram Thanks for sharing those stunning shots of our country, @reesewitherspoon! 🙌🏻 We're big fans of "Wild" and would love to show you some more Kiwi wilderness. 🌲⛰🐟⛺️ Please stay longer? 😊🙏🏻🌹 #wildmovie #nz #nzsummer #wilderness #nature #reesewitherspoon #airnzshareme #shareyournz #wheretonext #⛰ A post shared by Air New Zealand (@airnz) on Feb 17, 2017 at 8:31pm PST

20) @newzealandguide

This is one of the most popular New Zealand Instagram accounts and it’s very easy to see why. Spend a few minutes scrolling through their feed and there is no way you’ll want to live anywhere else!

View this post on Instagram The Milkyway over Queenstown on a winters night 🌌 Photo by @south_of_home A post shared by New Zealand (@newzealandguide) on Aug 21, 2018 at 11:31pm PDT

21) @newlifeoverseas

Last, but hopefully not least, is our own inspirational Instagram account with inspiring photos from the most popular destinations for UK citizens moving overseas. Of course New Zealand is one of our favourite countries!

View this post on Instagram Beautiful 😃 #NZ #NewZealand #NZMustDo #newzealandvacations #destinationnz #mthrworld #natgeovisual #earth_magic #lifeonglobe #special_shots #ig_masterpiece #visualsofearth #landscape_captures #earthlandscape #awesome_earthpix #natgeotravel #lonelyplanet #artofvisuals #wonderful_places #landscape #scenery #nature #mountains A post shared by New Life Overseas (@newlifeoverseas) on Aug 17, 2018 at 2:10am PDT

Inspiring your move to New Zealand

Follow these 21 of the best New Zealand Instagram pages and you’re guaranteed the daily dose of inspiration and motivation you need to keep your dream of moving to this beautiful land on track.

Are there any accounts we’ve missed that you think should be added to our list? Be sure to let us know.

Need help moving to New Zealand?

Over the years we have helped thousands of people start a new life in New Zealand. Contact our team for help and advice on shipping and removals.

We can also find someone to help you with all aspects of migrating to NZ – everything from visas, jobs and the best places to live. Just give our team a call on 020 8686 7733.

You can also visit our Removals to New Zealand or Shipping Boxes To New Zealand pages.

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Ten New Zealand Instagram accounts you need to follow right now

Discover more about our travel and tourism industry by following our favourite NZ Instagram accounts.

One of the best ways to learn more about New Zealand’s exciting airline, travel and tourism industry is through social media. Forget selfies and food snaps – scenic shots of NZ’s beautiful landscapes are where it’s at! Follow these ten beautiful accounts to stay up-to-date with the NZ tourism industry’s top players.

1. Air New Zealand

With 123,000 followers (and climbing!), our national airline’s Instagram game is strong. Follow @airnz for stunning pics of planes, inspirational travel quotes and more.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Air New Zealand (@airnz)

2. Tourism New Zealand

Warning: Wanderlust Ahead. The official Instagram for Tourism New Zealand will have you wanting to pack your bags and head away on a road trip around our beautiful country quick smart!

View this post on Instagram A post shared by New Zealand (@purenewzealand)

3. Wings of a Feather

Wings of a Feather is the Instagram profile of avid traveller Mindy Lamoureux. While not all her pics are from New Zealand (she’s always on-the-go, exploring all corners of the world), you can expect to see a healthy dose of NZ-based snaps.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by @itsmtntime

4. Visit Auckland

The official account of Auckland Tourism, this gorgeous feed proves once and for all that Auckland really is one of the most beautiful cities in the world.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Auckland, New Zealand (@visitauckland)

5. The Global Couple

Married couple Petra and Shaun are self-described ‘New Zealand travel experts’. They blog about their adventures over at www.theglobalcouple.com .

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Petra + Shaun 👫🌏 (@theglobalcouple)

6. Queenstown Holidays

Is there anywhere in New Zealand more beautiful than Queenstown? There’s a reason this stunning destination is one of the country’s most popular tourism hot spots. Follow Queenstown Holidays for a daily dose of South Island beauty.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by QUEENSTOWN HOLIDAYS (@queenstownholidays)

7. Backpacking Matt

Matt Kyhnn is an NZ-based traveler and adventurer. Many of his photos are from New Zealand, but he also shares plenty of breathtaking snaps from around the world.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Matt Kyhnn (@backpackingmatt)

8. Capture NZ

Photographer Sam Kennedy, the man behind Capture NZ, shares a range of gorgeous images from around our beautiful country.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by SAM KENNEDY – PHOTOGRAPHER (@capturenz)

9. Kiwi Photos

This wanderlust-inducing Instagram account simply exists to “showcase the beauty of this country”. We think it’s doing a pretty amazing job!

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Exploring New Zealand (@exploringnewzealand)

10. New Zealand Vacations

Last but definitely not least, New Zealand Vacations aims to share “the best photos and locations from around New Zealand”. Follow them now for a fix of stunning scenery.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by NEW ZEALAND (@newzealandvacations)

BONUS: The International Travel College of New Zealand

Did you know we have an Instagram account? Keep up-to-date with college news, events and other happenings by giving us a follow :)

View this post on Instagram A post shared by International Travel College (@itcnz)

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• The 15 Most Instagrammable Places...

The 15 Most Instagrammable Places in New Zealand

New Zealand, with its breathtaking natural sights and equally marvellous towns and cities, is a photographer’s dream true come. Whether you’re an avid Instagrammer or a shutter-happy traveller, you’ll be spoiled for choice when it comes to photo opportunities. In fact, here are 15 Insta-worthy destinations you should definitely add to your bucket list.

Postcard-worthy vistas are a strong part of Queenstown’s appeal. The popular resort and adventure hub is surrounded by lakes, snowy alps, canyons, rivers and gorges. To get the best panoramas in town, head to Bob’s Peak summit: you can either hike your way up or catch the gondola to the top.

Milford Sound

Fiordland National Park’s Milford Sound has been marvelling visitors for many centuries: legend has it that author Rudyard Kipling once named the area as being among the wonders of the world. Travellers from all over the globe head to the isolated fjord to cruise along its serene waters, marvel at its soaring mountain peaks, or hike the multi-day Milford Track .

Dunedin Railway Station

Dunedin Railway Station is one of the most photographed buildings in New Zealand. Some go as far as saying that this architectural gem is one of the second most snapped in the Southern Hemisphere, just behind the Sydney Opera House in Australia. When it opened in 1906, the Baroque-inspired station was New Zealand’s busiest; nowadays the station is no longer operating but the Otago Farmers’ Market is among the many fixtures that liven up the area.

Mount Victoria, Wellington

New Zealand’s hilly capital city offers a trove of panoramic photo ops. If you want to get a full 360-degree view of Wellington, though, Mount Victoria is the place to visit. Try and get there just before sunrise or sunset for the most stunning shots. A two-and-a-half hour, 4.7-kilometre (2.9-mile) loop track will lead you to the lookout point at the top of the summit.

Maungawhau/Mount Eden, Auckland

For a full sweeping view of New Zealand’s largest city, Maungawhau/Mount Eden is the ultimate go-to. This volcanic cone is quite handy to the city, and the walk up to its summit will take a reasonably fit person around five to 10 minutes at most. Panoramic vistas aside, the 50-metre (164-foot) crater contained within this epic volcano is a wonder in itself.

Napier is a picturesque city on the east coast of the North Island that has become globally renowned for its Art Deco architecture. Its iconic buildings emerged after the city, and the surrounding Hawke’s Bay region, was struck by a major earthquake in the 1930s. Napier’s Art Deco sights and attractions have become so revered that there’s even an annual festival dedicated to them.

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Christchurch Art Gallery

If there’s one place that symbolises Christchurch’s post-quake resilience, it’s the Christchurch Art Gallery . Its premises became the main Civil Defence headquarters after disaster struck; it then underwent its own earthquake strengthening before resuming its artistic operations. The modern building, known for its exquisite glass facade, is complemented by a series of sculptures and art installations fitted outside it.

Wai-O-Tapu Geothermal Wonderland

Wai-O-Tapu Geothermal Wonderland is home to an exquisite collection of geysers, mud pools and uniquely coloured geothermal springs. The park is located 27 kilometres (16.8 miles) south of Rotorua and is best enjoyed at a leisurely pace – allow approximately three hours to admire all its features, and make sure to get there before 10:15 am to see the Lady Knox Geyser’s daily spouting spectacle.

Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park

Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park is a place where forest, ice and rock come together in perfect cohesion. This accessible park is home to 19 mountain peaks including New Zealand’s tallest: Aoraki/Mt Cook. A series of hiking tracks will lead you to the famous namesake peak, among other scenic highlights like the Tasman Glacier and Hooker Valley.

Tongariro National Park

Tongario National Park is one of New Zealand’s UNESCO World Heritage areas. It is home to the North Island’s major ski fields, as well as being a popular spot for those who want to get their hiking and mountaineering fix. Lord of the Rings fans will also know the area for its film appearances – including Mt Ngauruhoe , which was used to bring Mt Doom to life.

Abel Tasman National Park

Located at the northern end of the South Island, Abel Tasman National Park is a true gem for all seasons. Here you’ll find various tracks that connect the lush rainforests and granite cliffs to a series of golden-sand beaches. If you have an affinity for wildlife, the neighbouring Tonga Island Marine Reserve is a good spot to see some little blue penguins, seals and bottlenose dolphins.

Cathedral Cove

The Coromandel’s Cathedral Cove is the definition of photogenic: the marine reserve earned international acclaim after starring in the Chronicles of Narnia films as Cair Paravel, the fictional castle where the Kings and Queens of Narnia rule. The area is most popular in summer and autumn and can only be reached by boat, kayak or on foot.

Lake Tekapo

Lake Tekapo is a South Island gem that should be on all photographers’ bucket lists. The lake’s turquoise waters are an all-season marvel, but are even more embellished in the spring months , when the lupins bloom alongside it. Lake Tekapo Village is also part of New Zealand’s UNESCO Dark Sky Reserve, making it the ultimate spot for some stargazing.

Punakaiki Pancake Rocks

Travellers are wont to venture into the South Island’s West Coast to bask in its rugged beauty. Punakaiki’s Pancake Rocks are among the most famous scenic highlights in the area. A 20-minute loop walk just off the main highway at Punakaiki village, right at the edge of Paparoa National Park, will get you up close and personal with a series of stacked limestone rock formations that have been carved out of several years of seismic action.

The Moeraki Boulders

The Moeraki Boulders will amaze you with their size. Some of these striking spheres are up to 2.2 metres (7.2 feet) in diameter. These boulders are located on the Otago coast, between the towns of Moeraki and Hampden, and are estimated to be around five million years old. Mud and coastal erosion are to thank for these curious concretiocns and their distinctive cracked surfaces.

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The 18 Best Instagrammable Spots on the North Island of New Zealand

It’s no secret that New Zealand is an amazingly beautiful country. With its snowy mountains, incredible coastlines, blue as lakes, countless numbers of waterfalls, and lush rainforests, New Zealand is a photographer’s dream. After traveling around the country for more than a year in total, we can say that it’s definitely the most instagrammable country in the whole world!

In this guide, we’ll cover all the best instagrammable spots on the north island of New Zealand. Including insider tips and the exact Google Maps location of each spot.

Looking for the best instagrammable spots on the south island? ↠ Also read: The 20 Best Instagrammable Spots on the South Island of New Zealand

Cape Reinga Lighthouse

Google Maps location: click here

Starting with the top of the north island, Cape Reinga is really situated at the end of the world. It’s home to a very cute lighthouse with the most beautiful views of the ocean. Or actually, two oceans. This is the place where the Tasman Sea meets the Pacific Ocean.  

When to go: come with sunrise or sunset to have the place to yourself and to have the most beautiful lighting.

Top tip: at some point on the path you can choose to follow the main path to the right or to go up a hill to the left. Follow the path to the left to get the best views over the lighthouse!

          View this post on Instagram                       A post shared by BRAM & MANON ✧ Travel Couple?? (@flipflopwanderers) on Jul 6, 2018 at 9:13am PDT

St Paul’s Rock – Whangaroa Harbour

This is a true hidden gem! It’s a short, but steep hike to the top of the volcanic rock but from there you have spectacular views of Whangaroa Harbour. The water is so incredibly blue from up there, it’s amazing! On your way there are also beautiful views already.

Top tip: wear good shoes to get to the top, because you’ll have to climb some rocks while holding yourself onto a chain.

          View this post on Instagram                       A post shared by BRAM & MANON ✧ Travel Couple?? (@flipflopwanderers) on May 17, 2018 at 7:35am PDT

Cathedral Cove – Coromandel

Cathedral Cove is the highlight of the Coromandel Peninsula and probably one of the most famous instagrammable spots on the north island. It’s home to a beautiful white-sand beach and unique rock formations. From the carpark, you’ll have to walk around 30 – 45minutes to get there, but it’s definitely worth it! Along the way you already have amazing ocean views.

When to go: go for sunrise! Yes, you will have to hike in the dark but sunrise is so incredibly beautiful here. Especially if you go stand behind the rock formation on the other side of the cave like we did at the below photo. Another benefit is that it will be much quieter than during the day!

Top tip: avoid weekends and public holidays as it gets super busy then. All the local kiwis celebrate their free time here!

          View this post on Instagram                       A post shared by BRAM & MANON ✧ Travel Couple?? (@flipflopwanderers) on Feb 24, 2018 at 2:26am PST

Pinnacles Walk – Coromandel

The Pinnacles Walk is one of the toughest hikes we did, but let us tell you: it’s definitely worth it! The Pinnacles are the highest point of the Coromandel Peninsula and reaching the summit is an indescribable feeling. From the top of the summit you’ll have incredible views over the Coromandel Peninsula and you will be taking photos everywhere!

When to go: as this is a day hike we recommend you to leave early in the morning. The best thing would be to stay in the DOC hut  at the base of the Pinnacles and then go for sunset and for sunrise to the top of the summit. Around these times the light is amazing!

Top tip: be very well prepared for this hike, as it’s a steep climb. Always wear sturdy shoes.

Want to know more about this day hike? ↠ Also read: The 10 Best Day Hikes in New Zealand

          View this post on Instagram                       A post shared by BRAM & MANON ✧ Travel Couple?? (@flipflopwanderers) on Jul 17, 2018 at 4:12am PDT

Bridal Veil Falls – Raglan

One of the most beautiful waterfalls we have seen in New Zealand! It’s a perfect single-drop waterfall located in the middle of a bush and is 55 meters high. The top of the waterfall is easily reached a few minutes from the carpark and for the base you have the climb down about 10 minutes. Both at the top and base of the waterfall are platforms. Unfortunately you can’t really go behind the fences or at least aren’t really allowed to, which isn’t the best for Instagram photos.

Top tip: there is however one spot where you can easily get over the fence to get the same shot as we have below, at the second gate a few steps below the top of the falls. It’s not really the safest spot, so be careful at the edge, but it makes for awesome shots.

Photography tip: use a slow shutter speed to capture the water movement and to make the waterfall look silky smooth. If it’s too light during the day, use a grey filter on your camera. When you’re using a slow shutter speed and you want to be in the shot yourself, you have to stand very still though! Or merge it together later in Photoshop ;)

          View this post on Instagram                       A post shared by BRAM & MANON ✧ Travel Couple?? (@flipflopwanderers) on Apr 23, 2018 at 2:26am PDT

Wai-o-Tapu – Rotorua

You can’t visit New Zealand without seeing some geothermal activity! In our opinion one of the best parks for this and the one with the best instagrammable spots is Wai-o-Tapu in Rotorua. It’s a truly unique landscape that is sculptured out of volcanic activity and is thousands of years in the making. You’ll find steaming vents, bubbling mud, huge volcanic craters, and hot bubbling pools.

When to go: the park is open from 8.30 am to 6.00 pm. We recommend to go there straight after opening time or later in the afternoon to avoid most tourists.

Top tip: we loved taking photos on the boardwalk next to the Champagne Pool the most!

          View this post on Instagram                       A post shared by BRAM & MANON ✧ Travel Couple?? (@flipflopwanderers) on Apr 19, 2018 at 3:26am PDT

Redwoods – Rotorua

While they are not as famous as the original Redwoods in California, the ones in Rotorua are still really impressive. The forest is pretty huge and there are several pathways in and amongst the trees, like the Treewalk. We just loved walking around and making use of the ample opportunities to take photos!

When to go: the forest is most beautiful during the golden hours, when the lights peaks between the trees.

          View this post on Instagram                       A post shared by BRAM & MANON ✧ Travel Couple?? (@flipflopwanderers) on Jun 6, 2018 at 4:05am PDT

Mount Maunganui

Mount Maunganui is a gorgeous place on the east coast of the north island with the ‘best beach of New Zealand’, as nominated by Tripadvisor. But that is not all: the ‘Mount’ is a 232-meter high mountain, whose summit is reached by a 45-minute hike. From up there you have the most stunning 360-degree views over the entire Bay of Plenty. There are definitely some good viewpoints, rocks or other elements around to make the perfect Instagram shot!

When to go: go with sunrise! This is the most beautiful time as the sun rises perfectly behind the beach and the city. Otherwise, sunset is also still pretty.

          View this post on Instagram                       A post shared by BRAM & MANON ✧ Travel Couple?? (@flipflopwanderers) on Jun 17, 2018 at 4:48am PDT

Tongariro Alpine Crossing

The Tongariro Alpine Crossing is New Zealand’s most famous and impressive day hike. The 20 km hike traverses an epic volcanic alpine landscape of dramatic contrasts: from lush rainforest and glacial valleys to crater lakes, volcanic lava fields, emerald lakes, and steaming vents. You’ll have endless photo opportunities along the way but our favorite must be the view over the Emerald Lakes!

When to go: as this is a demanding day hike, start very early in the morning, so you’ll have enough time to take those amazing Instagram shots!

Top tip: be very well prepared when you’re doing the crossing, as weather conditions can change quickly. Sturdy shoes with strong grip are absolutely necessary and always carry a waterproof/windproof jacket with you.

          View this post on Instagram                       A post shared by BRAM & MANON ✧ Travel Couple?? (@flipflopwanderers) on Sep 2, 2017 at 2:38am PDT

Kiwi Sign – Tongariro National Park

The Tongariro National Park has much more than only the Tongariro Crossing. The whole national park is stunning with views on Mount Tongariro, Ruapehu, and Ngauruhoe (also called Mount Doom in Lord of the Rings). One spot we particularly loved is the kiwi sign next to 47 Road. From here you have a perfect backdrop of Mount Doom. You can find the kiwi sign before the turn-off to Whakapapa if you’re coming from the side of National Park. This is definitely one of our favorite instagrammable spots on the north island!

When to go: this place is stunning any time of the day, but come around sunset and the colors are just incredible. Try to come on a clear day, otherwise Mount Doom might be covered in clouds.

Top tip: take photos on the road for that ultimate road trip shot, but be careful about passing cars!

          View this post on Instagram                       A post shared by BRAM & MANON ✧ Travel Couple?? (@flipflopwanderers) on Sep 21, 2018 at 4:49am PDT

Bruce Road – Tongariro National Park

Bruce Road is the road that leads from Whakapapa town all the way up to the Whakapapa ski field. Along this road you have incredible views over the valley below and on Mount Doom. On a clear day you can even see Mount Taranaki in the distance!

When to go: sunset is definitely the best time to take shots from here. The light is incredible!

Top tip: for the best Instagrammable spot, stop just before the bigger carpark along the way (not the carpark at the skifield!). From here, walk into the rocky landscape and look for a good angle to take shots of you in front of Mount Doom!

          View this post on Instagram                       A post shared by BRAM & MANON ✧ Travel Couple?? (@flipflopwanderers) on Jul 25, 2018 at 5:10am PDT

Kent Road – Mount Taranaki

An incredibly scenic road of which our photos went completely viral on Instagram! Everybody always wants to know where we took these shots, so here you have the location of the most instagrammable spot on the north island: it’s the Kent Road leading towards Mount Taranaki.  

When to go: definitely before and during sunset! It’s just magical when the sun hits the top of Mount Taranaki and colors it golden. Also, try to come on a clear day as Taranaki is often covered in clouds. You’ll have to be lucky for clear days though, but some clouds around the mountain are also really pretty.

The exact spot: it’s hard to explain the exact spot where we took our photos, but you’ll probably see it when you get there. We were standing on a sort of higher hill on the road with some small, even higher hills on both sides of the road. Just use our photo as a reference!

Top tip: we took our photos on the road with our tripod, but we want to warn you to be careful if you’re gonna do the same! While it’s super quiet on this road (only 3 cars passed us during rush hour), still be on the lookout for cars coming. Luckily you can hear and see them very early.

          View this post on Instagram                       A post shared by BRAM & MANON ✧ Travel Couple?? (@flipflopwanderers) on Oct 30, 2018 at 5:03am PDT

Pouakai Tarns – Mount Taranaki

Another one of our favorite instagrammable spots on the north island! To get to this spot you have to do something though, a hike of about 10km return! The hike itself is pretty tough and climbs up many steps, but the reward you get at the end is just amazing. The majestic Mount Taranaki with reflecting ponds in front of it is a sight you won’t forget easily.

Top tip: There is a hut on the top close to the tarns where you can stay the night. We definitely recommend doing this because then you can visit the tarns at the most beautiful times of the day!

When to go: if you stay the night in the hut, you can come to the tarns with sunset and sunrise. Those are definitely the best times as the lighting is gorgeous then! Also, after sunset stay a little longer as the night sky is incredible over there. We have never seen so many stars!

Photography tip: on every photo you see from this spot, the tarns look super big, while in reality it’s just a really small pond. So how do these people fool you with their shots? Take your shots from a low vantage point! This way the tarn looks much bigger and it’s easier to get that perfect reflection shot.

          View this post on Instagram                       A post shared by BRAM & MANON ✧ Travel Couple?? (@flipflopwanderers) on Sep 1, 2018 at 4:43am PDT

Te Rewa Rewa Bridge – New Plymouth

Te Rewa Rewa Bridge is a bridge that looks like a breaking wave or a whale skeleton, we’re not sure haha. It’s a beautiful bridge but the main spot is on the other side of the bridge looking back and then seeing Mount Taranaki perfectly lined up in the background.

When to go: come around sunset as, again, the light hits Mount Taranaki perfectly in the background.

Photography tip: use a telelens and put your camera far away from the bridge and then zoom! This way Mount Taranaki will appear much bigger on the photo.

          View this post on Instagram                       A post shared by BRAM & MANON ✧ Travel Couple?? (@flipflopwanderers) on Aug 17, 2018 at 4:50am PDT

Vineyards in Hawke’s Bay

Hawke’s Bay is famous for its many vineyards, from which some of them are very instagrammable. The two we loved the most and that are amazing for your Instagram shots are Black Barn Vineyards & Craggy Range Vineyards.  

When to go: Black Barn Vineyards is open from 10.00 am till 4.00 pm and Craggy Range Vineyard is open from 10.00 am till 6.00 pm. Come any time of the day to enjoy a wine with perfect views! For the best lighting at the Craggy Range Vineyards, come in the late afternoon as the sun sets perfectly behind Te Mata Peak.

          View this post on Instagram                       A post shared by BRAM & MANON ✧ Travel Couple?? (@flipflopwanderers) on Jul 26, 2018 at 4:26am PDT

Te Mata Peak – Hawke’s Bay

Definitely one of the best instagrammable spots on the north island! Te Mata Peak is a 400-meter high mountain and has incredible views of the whole of Hawke’s Bay, including Ruahine, Kaweka and Maungaharuru Ranges and Cape Kidnappers. On a clear day you can even see Mount Ruapehu in Tongariro!

When to go: sunrise or sunset is definitely best as the sky will be on fire, but really, any time of the day will do as the views are just stunning!

Top tip: you can drive all the way up with your car, but there are also many hiking trails leading up and around the mountain. These are definitely worth it too!

          View this post on Instagram                       A post shared by BRAM & MANON ✧ Travel Couple?? (@flipflopwanderers) on Jul 13, 2018 at 5:08am PDT

Castlepoint Lighthouse

This lighthouse, perched atop a cliff overlooking the wild sea below, is an Instagrammer’s dream! It has several vantage points that showcase its surroundings, but the most beautiful shots can be taken from the photogenic boardwalk. The rugged coastline around the lighthouse is also worth some shots!

When to go: the lighthouse is most beautiful during sunrise, when the sky has amazing colors.

          View this post on Instagram                       A post shared by BRAM & MANON ✧ Travel Couple?? (@flipflopwanderers) on Jul 14, 2018 at 5:19am PDT

Mount Victoria – Wellington

Get away from all the people and see Wellington from above! Mount Victoria provides, at 196 meters high, the most impressive views of the city and harbour. There are many beautiful vantage points to take your Instagram shots, from the side of the city to the other side where you have great views over the ocean.

When to go: the view is gorgeous at any time of the day, but the best time would be sunset. After that, wait around a little bit longer and see the whole city light up!

Photography tip: if you want to photograph the city at night, make sure to use a wide aperture (f4 or wider) to catch enough light. It’s nice to play around with a slow shutter speed to see moving cars below. If you also want to be in the shot, you might have to stand very still or use a higher ISO!

          View this post on Instagram                       A post shared by BRAM & MANON ✧ Travel Couple?? (@flipflopwanderers) on Sep 26, 2018 at 5:25am PDT

Where to Stay

Find all hotels on the north island of New Zealand here!

Read all our other blogs about New Zealand here!

Hopefully these best instagrammable spots of the north island will get you snapping like crazy in New Zealand! We can’t wait to see your shots, you can always tag us @flipflopwanderers in the post. Do you have any other instagrammable spots to add? Let us know in the comment below!

Check out all our other Instagrammable Spots here!

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Are you thinking of doing a trip to New Zealand, and want access to all our tips and secret photo locations? CLICK HERE!

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Five Instagram-worthy New Zealand scenes

Capture the country’s beauty from sunrise to sunset

Pink in the morning, white in the afternoon, burnt orange by sunset. As you move across New Zealand, the evolving light will be the first thing you notice when you wake and the last thing you gaze at before night falls.

Authors, photographers, and artists have long espoused the virtues of the light in this South Pacific nation. After a 1976 visit, American poet Robert Creeley described it as “intense, clear, particularizing, ruthless, unlike any I’ve previously known.” But it is the Māori story of how it came to be that best conveys its magic. Mother Earth (Papatūānuku) and Father Sky (Ranginui) were once entwined; alone and harmonious in the dark. It was only when they had children that they were forced apart—and that is when the light came in. Here are five spots in New Zealand to catch it:

Dawn in Kaikōura

Fishermen on the South Island’s Kaikōura coast rise early to a pink dawn, the first to catch the clear light that sparkles as it hits the water. Travelers who time it right can find the same beauty. Stop at a seaside diner like Nin’s Bin, where the fresh crayfish is served with garlic butter at picnic tables looking out over the water. Book a boat excursion to take in the snowcapped coastal mountains. You can also marvel at the new coastline—rock ledges, thrust upward from the water after the 2016 earthquake, provide fresh turf for seal colonies—and watch dolphin pods and sperm whales breach above the Kaikōura Canyon, a 37-mile-long underwater trench rich with marine life.

Kaikōura is a coastal town on the South Island of New Zealand. It’s known for its abundant wildlife and its sperm whale population.

Breakfast in Nelson

Celebrate the morning light on Saturdays with cups of chai and bites of warm pastry at the Nelson Market, one of dozens of local markets across the country. Sip and savor, but linger, too. Locals aren’t just selling artisan food and wares, they’re sharing their stories. The common refrain in Nelson, a town dedicated to craftsmanship, is a desire to make something better: a healthier peanut butter, a tastier muffin, a carving that captures a feeling. When the sun hits pottery thrown with care or glints off slippers hand-felted just days earlier, you feel the passion the light inspired.

Midday glory above Abel Tasman

Bask in the afternoon sun on the beaches of New Zealand’s smallest national park. When the sun is at its peak, the sand at Abel Tasman turns gold. Campers whose tents face the water get the best reward: views of the blue-green, jewel-colored waters lapping the shore. The Abel Tasman Coast Track—one of the country’s nine Great Walks—will take you across soft forest floors and past overgrown fiddlehead ferns and canopies of evergreen. As you climb higher, overlooks offer a bird’s-eye view of shimmering water. Speedboats glisten in the light, leaving white trails in their wake, while yellow and orange kayaks bob like buoys in the distance.

Whakatāne Toi's PA Kaputerangi Views from the site.

Walk the land in the Bay of Plenty

The steam rising from the geothermal vents across Rotorua creates filtered sunlight throughout the day. Earn an evening soak in one of the famous hot springs after picking from a number of day hikes. At nearby Ohope Beach, you can watch surfers take on the waves or brave the waters yourself. And no trip to the Bay of Plenty would be complete without an immersive Māori experience. The region’s population is about 40 percent Māori, and cultural experiences range from meal excursions to carving demonstrations. Spend a day at Te Puia, where boiling geysers put on a show and the on-site carving school offers a glimpse into the history and culture of the Māori people.

Sunset cheers in Auckland

Catch a ferry to Waiheke Island on a sunny afternoon to stroll olive groves and beaches, and gaze at the cityscape across the water as twilight comes. Can’t make it to Auckland? Wine is the centerpiece for early evening socializing in vineyards, bars, and restaurants across the country. Sip Chardonnay at Neudorf Vineyards near Nelson or Pinot Noir at Spy Valley in the Marlborough region. Wherever you raise your glass, chances are the setting sun will add a luminescent glow to your toast. Sleep well. New Zealand’s light will be waiting to welcome you again in the morning.

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New Zealand’s best Instagram accounts

New Zealand is a pure visual inspiration. Bloggers across the globe travel to remote destinations to capture nature’s wonders in the most breathtaking ways, while we’re lucky to live in a country with epic views, lush greens, glacier lakes, black sand beaches, volcanoes and colossal mountains within arm’s reach. Most often we don’t even have to leave our own backyard to create Instagram-worthy content.

Seeing people mastering the art of capturing New Zealand’s beauty on photos is probably my fav way to spend time. No matter, if it’s a free evening, quick lunch break or the first thing I do in the morning, I just can’t skip the routine of scrolling Instagram feed, that’s now full of the most amazing local photographers. And today I’m going to share the list of the best travel Instagram accounts in New Zealand with you.

But can you really enjoy the country at its fullest without exploring it like local? To make this article complete, you’ll find a few absolutely stunning New Zealand lifestyle Instagram accounts here as well. Foodies, stylish IT-girls and overall amazing human beings with inspiring feeds, you’ll never regret following.

These talents inspire me every day by sharing new destinations I’m dying to see, discovering mouthwatering food locations and just generally living in style. Please, keep in mind, that accounts are named in a random order, they are all equally wonderful:)

Best New Zealand travel Instagram accounts

@ thebuzzykiwi  – that’s what the life of a real adventurer should look like. Colourful, vibrant and positive. Though Stephen clearly knows how to find activities and angles to make everyone on Instagram question their boring lives, he’s never showing off. Perfect shots are combined with honest, meaningful captions, that give a glimpse into a real life of a millennial influencer. And apparently it’s not all yachts and mountains. He has his ups and lows, he might suffer from severe pains but he never forgets that living the life at its fullest is the best gift from the Universe and he truly appreciates that.

@ brandoyelavichexplorer  – incredible human being, who, I kid you not, WALKED around New Zealand (that is nearly 8,000km of the coastline). I’ve read his book ‘Wildboy’ about this epic adventure and have been following him on Instagram ever since. It’s great to see how this boy grew into a mature explorer now, always travelling with purpose and lots of fun. Oh, and of course, long captions are just so cool to read!

@ rachstewartnz  – one of the first local photographers I’ve started following, with an impressive 226K audience. It took me a while to realise we’re actually also living in the same town, by the way! Rach was a pioneer in long exposure photography in New Zealand, making this way of capturing nature really popular among local photographers, so don’t be surprised by the amount of the long exposure shots, you’ll find in New Zealand’s hashtags (and this TOP).

@ point.in.time.nz  – landscape and astrophotographer from the Bay. Trust me, you NEED that ‘Mount under the bright stars’ photos in your Instagram feed!

@ talman  – these are the types of shots you print on A0, get them framed and present to your best friend. Simply stunning!

@ danielmurray.nz  – just like with the person above: you simply can’t say a lot about such iconic shots. Eye candy, amde for watching, not discussing.

@ barekiwi  – though I’ve been following Kyle for quite a while, I have only really discovered how awesome he is after that horrible Kaikoura earthquake in 2016, when he helped the region to recover by creating epic content for Kaikoura Tourism board and turning their official Instagram account an informative and attractive source of news from Kaikoura.

@ nzsjoel  – ‘Nacho enthusiast’ from Auckland certainly doesn’t mind a person on his landscape photos every now and then. Nor do we! Let’s be honest, that brings everything to life.

@ sophiepiearcey  – Queenstown babe on a mission to show this gorgeous corner of the world to everyone. If you’re a sucker for mountains and snow, like I am, that’s the account to follow!

@ youngadventuress  – American girl, living in New Zealand and travelling the world. Captures cutest penguins, kea and other animals as well as breathtaking views,  obligatory for New Zealand Instagrammers.

@ thelittlebrave  – this gal is everything I love about travelling Instagram girls: she is positive, she is active, forever grateful for every experience and beautiful view she witnesses, never takes anything for granted and knows a few really outstanding angles and poses. Constantly twinning with Sophie Piearcey:)

@ carmenhuter  – amazing blogger and creative photographer, Carmen was born in Austria but lives in New Zealand now. She never fails to surprise with unusual angles and new perspectives. I always enjoy reading her mindful captions, that resonate with my aim to travel consciously and with respect to our planet.

@ meghanmaloneyphotography  – love how uninhabited and tranquil does our country look on her shots! Even the busy, always crowded Mount Maunganui seems quiet at dawn. Isn’t it the mood we all are looking for when travelling in New Zealand?

@ debc_nz  – if you’ve ever imagined yourself he only person left on Earth, your life most probably looked like Deb’s photos – stunning landscapes and a tiny little girl in a distance. So romantic!

@ lola.photography  – Lola’s photos are all flares, details and new angles. Every time I see a new picture, I feel like interrupting an intimate, very personal moment, so lively they always are!

@ laurie_winter  – love her vibrant, bright colours. Making the whole New Zealand look like Hobbiton? Yes, please! I’m a fan.

@ rachealtrail.nz  – there can’t be too many long exposure photos of New Zealand’s nature, right? Racheal also has a second account, devoted to waterfalls, and I love having a little sneaky peek of her waterfall art every now and then.

@ south_of_home  – landscape photography couple from Queenstown. You’ll never wanna scroll further if you’re an avid sky lover.

@ craigjcampbell  – seriously, Queenstown people, are you served photography skills for breakfast there or what? As you might have understood already, Craig is yet another talent based in the adventure capital of New Zealand (spoiler alert: and not the last on this list!)

@ brentpurcell.nz  – had enough of just watching and keen to start your own epic Instagram account now? Brent is the guy you need, as he organises phototours around New Zealand, often visited by some the talents mentioned above. Imagine hanging out in Milford sound or Mount Cook area with these guys!

@ travelphotoskiwi  – while many New Zealand photographers tend to be too focused on nature, Hamish Boyt enjoys life in all its forms, which makes his account really versatile and interesting for everyone.

@ willpatino_photography  – wow! That’s New Zealand like never before: mighty, powerful, moody and totally insane.

Best New Zealand lifestyle Instagram accounts

@ thestylejungle  – honestly, feels a bit weird to mention myself but the fact that lots of our friends say they always check out my Instagram account when making plans for a weekend getaway or searching for a perfect surprise for their special someone’s Birthday, makes me believe it’s really useful and interesting. I used to be 100% travel-focused but since moving to New Zealand tend to fall more into a ‘lifestyle’ category, adding a bit of beauty/fashion/food pics every now and then.

@ alexspodyneiko  – I mean, there would’ve been no @thestylejungle without the guy behind the camera of all my shots:) Alex is known for top-notch travel and lifestyle photos and writing super-long, detailed and informative captions under his photos, so make sure you save his suggestions and tips for future travels and unique experiences!

@ herlifeofadventure  – stylish Ozzie gal now living in Queenstown. Seriously, nothing can beat New Zealand’s nature but who knew a bit of a lifestyle from a beautiful positive girl for a change can be so refreshing and empowering! Really makes me wanna experience Queenstown’s lifestyle one day.

@ robbiehunteeer  – a good friend of ours, Robbie is passionate about portrait photography, which makes his shots really authentic and different from anything else you see on Instagram.

@ ashowens_  – beauty blogger with a great style and picture-perfect travels. I’m honestly a bit obsessed with her Stories, where she shares latest beauty collections and skincare routine you can totally trust (just look at this glowing skin!) on a daily basis.

@ tastefullytash  – Tauranga’s main foodie:) Tash demonstrates exceptional food photography skills and the healthiest lifestyle out there. Seriously, I wonder if she ever eats anything except for green smoothies and raw balls. Also my go-to account for the trendiest Tauranga eateries.

@ christinamacpherson  – that’s what I call ‘a real Instagram model’! Christina is a gorgeous person both on the outside (seriously, my girl crush) and on the inside (check out her kind and lovely captions).

@ tompaterson_nz  – Christina’s fiance and season one ‘Survivor NZ’ participant. Love how these two complement each other in real life and online. Has a creative approach to his feed and photos, which is always exciting to see.

@r ach_swiftandclick  – the girl behind some of Christina’s photo (don’t you just love how I’ve simply included everyone involved in her life here?) and Mount Maunganui photographer. Her photos are light, airy, bright and so emotional. She doesn’t just capture people but rather their souls and characters.

@ thesleekavenue  – I wouldn’t be surprised to find this Instagram account while browsing for ‘best Italian bloggers’ or ‘best French bloggers’ but I honestly couldn’t expect these luxurious, haute couture vibes from a local girl. Don’t we all know New Zealand is all about being relaxed in what you wear, haha? Follow Aki for a whole new level of fashion inspiration.

@ katecraigbrown  – couples’ photographer. And though she has a different account for this type of shots, I really prefer personal one, where she frequently shares a shot or two of herself, her friends or the wonderful surrounding there’re exploring at the moment. I’m also a huge fan of the funny ‘behind-the-scenes of the photoshoots’ stories in captions.

@ furtographynz  – seriously, the name alone says it all:) How can one NOT follow someone called ‘FURtography’? Cutest photos of dogs, made with the highest level of professionalism.

Liked this post? Please, share it on your social media! Thank you.

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News | World

Tourism NZ says ditch influencer photoshoots and social media trends to try something new

New Zealand’ s tourism agency is asking travellers to ditch influencer-inspired photoshoots at tourism hotspots with a tongue-in-cheek campaign.

In the video comedian Thomas Sainsbury stars as a lone ranger in the “social observation squad."

He is seen scolding tourists for peddling in tropes such as a woman wearing a hat in lavender field, a man quietly thinking on a rock, and “a classic one in these parts: the summit spreadeagle”.

“We’ve seen all this before. We all have,” Sainsbury tells a couple caught posing with their arms and legs splayed out atop a mountain.

Tourism NZ’s call to skip the typical social media shots and “share something new” follows the launch in May 2020 of its Do Something New campaign, aimed at boosting domestic tourism while borders remained closed to international visitors.

Travellers were encouraged to share their creative travel shots with the hashtag #DoSomethingNewNZ for a chance to win a $500 domestic travel voucher.

“We noticed that the same pictures or poses kept coming up, time and time again, no matter the location,” Bjoern Spreitzer, Tourism NZ domestic manager , told Stuff. 

“There are so many incredible things to do in New Zealand, beyond the social trends.”

Social media platforms such as Instagram have driven the popularity of a few spots in New Zealand, including the tree in Lake Wanaka and the day hike to Roy’s Peak nearby.

In 2018 a photograph of the “social media queue” on the track went viral for showing the behind-the-scenes of the “summit spreadeagle” shot.

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Tourism New Zealand social media influencer spend for 2023 released

TNZ said it typically uses influencers to target the independent professional segment aged 25-54 years. Photo / 123rf

Tourism New Zealand spent almost a quarter of a million dollars on social media influencers in 2023, an Official Information Request has revealed.

The final cost of $248,837 covered travel costs (air and ground), production costs, agency fees, events, other inmarket costs and influencer fees, stated the organisation, which is responsible for promoting travel to New Zealand.

Most influencers had their travel costs covered but were not paid to visit and produce content apart from one group of three Singaporean influencers.

These three social media personalities were paid an additional amount to create and post content about New Zealand to their social media followers.

This group, who were taken around the South Island between September and October, included Munah Bagharib, Aiken Chia and Nicole Liel, who appeared to be taken around Christchurch and Kaikoura together.

Munah Bagharib (AKA the ‘wizard’)

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Munah Bagharib (@munahbagharib)

A former YouTube star, Munah Bagharib currently works as an actress, social media influencer and (according to her Instagram bio) Wizard. Disappointingly, it appears the latter title is more of a joke rather than a sign she’s in the running to be Christchurch’s next Wizard.

Nonetheless, she does appear to have a magical ability to gain an audience, with more than 100,000 followers on Instagram and TikTok.

While TNZ would not disclose the influencers’ content obligations, Bagharib shared several posts about New Zealand, including a video of the 9-hour bus ride from Christchurch to Queenstown and her trek with a llama in Kaikoura as well as a carousel post of her posing at a farm. Bagharib also included a “highlights” reel from her New Zealand trip.

“The land of never ending experiences! If there’s one trip you need to make, it’s this one!” she wrote in the caption, before listing four favourite experiences including He Puna Teimoana Hot Pools, Greytown Honey and Star Safari.

In terms of production value, Bagharib’s content isn’t that different to the videos or posts a traveller would make for fun. However, her value lies largely in her audience, with her New Zealand videos gaining between 11,500 and 138,000 views on Instagram.

Aiken Chia, however, is a highly talented video producer, who created several high-quality reels of his activities in New Zealand to his 145,000 followers.

Promising “top-tier recommendations from all around the world” in his Instagram bio, the 34-year-old regularly posts videos of places to visit, eat or stay in countries around the world.

A series of saved stories showed Aiken, with Bagharib in Christchurch where they went on an Amiki Cultural Food Tour, visited the hotpools at He Puna Taimoana, and rode a charter helicopter to Waipara Springs.

In Wellington, Aiken stayed at Naumi Hotels, rode the Wellington cable car and visited Zealandia Te Māra a Tāne.

A reel, posted after the trip, also reviewed the group’s activities in Kaikoura, such as trekking with llamas, riding a private helicopter and landing on Mt Fyffe and dining at Hapuku Kitchen.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by AIKEN CHIA (@aikenchia)

Chia also posted two videos reviewing his stay at a PurePod, which he had arranged independently.

Nicole Liel

The third member, Nicole Liel, is in her mid-20s but already has 192,000 TikTok followers and 1.6M “likes” on the platform, where she regularly posts life updates.

During one TikTok video, Liel shows viewers what she did during her first day in New Zealand.

“We went over to this place where they spent 10 million dollars to rebuild the agriculture and everything,” she said, showing footage of the Avon River.

After this, they went to a bar where the food was “mega slay” and after that, they went to Kmart because Liel realised “we were going to the mountain” and she didn’t have any winter clothes.

@lielnicole #travel #singapore #travelsg #newzealand ♬ original sound - nicole liel 🤪🤪 - nicole liel 🤩

Why did Tourism NZ use influencers?

The short answer is that, well, it works.

“In some markets, where there is low knowledge of New Zealand, they can be used to help gain wider reach and top of mind awareness with a large number of people,” said Tourism New Zealand in a statement.

“In more mature markets, they can be used as a credible source of information to support authentic storytelling.”

According to TNZ, the organisation worked with an agency to research top-performing influencers. They then selected those best positioned to influence key target markets provided they were genuinely willing to partner with TNZ.

Did the influencer activity work?

TNZ stated there was “strong evidence” to suggest influencers were an effective advertising channel, something it has seen in post-campaign analysis.

“Following the use of social media advocates Tourism New Zealand contracts independent research to conduct PR evaluation research to help measure the success of the partnership,” it stated.

The evaluation measures campaign recognition, and the content’s ability to build positive perceptions of New Zealand and generate interest to visit.

In 2023, TNZ spent $248,837 on influencer activity. The Equivalent Advertising Value (EAV), which represents the cost of buying media coverage with a similar impact was $42,673,581, TNZ stated.

The organisation also expects to see further results from the activity in the coming months.

As for the paid influencers, TNZ invested $28,096 and the content produced had an EAV of $1.5m. TNZ would not disclose how much each influencer was paid or what they were contracted to create on the grounds it was commercially sensitive.

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37 Best New Zealand Quotes to Inspire Your Trip 2024

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Known for its stunning landscapes and abundant sheep, the picturesque country of New Zealand is one of the most beautiful places in the world!

So if you’re looking to learn more then you’re in the right place. Below I’ve curated a bumper list of New Zealand quotes that are guaranteed to have you booking your next trip! 

Not only can you use these quotes about New Zealand to inspire your vacation, but they are also perfect for those looking for New Zealand Captions for Instagram!

New Zealand Nicknames

God’s own country

Paradise of the Pacific

Short Quotes on New Zealand

 Kiwi time!

Sweet as Kiwi

Kia ora – be well

We’re in the wop-wops (middle of nowhere)

Got my jandals, togs, and stubbies; I’m ready for the beach.

Waikikamukau

The land of the long white cloud

Funny New Zealand Sayings and New Zealand Puns

New Zealand is a country of thirty thousand million sheep, three million of whom think they are human –  Barry Humphries

Now, they say that New Zealand is beautiful and I do not know — because after 22 hours on a plane any landmass would be beautiful. – Lewis Black

New Zealand was colonised initially by those Australians who had the initiative to escape. – Robert Muldoon

People in New Zealand go out of their way to not be impressed by things. – Melanie Lynskey

If the people of New Zealand want to be a part of our world, I believe they should hop off their islands, and push ’em closer.- Lewis Black

Famous New Zealand Quotes and Sayings

New Zealand is not a small country but a large village –  Peter Jackson

There’s a real purity in New Zealand that doesn’t exist in the states. It’s actually not an easy thing to find in our world anymore. It’s a unique place because it is so far away from the rest of the world. There is a sense of isolation and also being protected. – Elijah Wood

The New Zealand sense of humor is tough and realistic. Jokes are not surreal; they are about life and demise and tough decisions – Anthony McCarten

New Zealand has incredible global recognition for grass-fed livestock. – Joel Salatin

“Whenever I get stressed I just want to hop on a plane to Queenstown.” – John Travolta

Unlike New Zealand, which has nothing especially predatory, Australia is full of spiders and crocodiles and all kinds of animals that will eat you and sting you.- Brian Cox

Quotes about New Zealand Beauty

Everywhere you turn in New Zealand, there’s something exciting to do. It’s the gem of the world. It’s so far away from the madness, and so you get that element. It was just stunning. – Wes Bentley

Nature defines who and what we are, and no more so for any nation than New Zealand, Aotearoa, the land of the long cloud. – Al Morrison

I’m from Canada, and New Zealand feels like you took all the best bits of Canada and squished them onto a tiny island like Hawaii. I was absolutely blown away by the beauty of the South Island.- Evangeline Lilly

New Zealand was one of the most beautiful countries to drive through for the scenery and the vast scale of the place. – Louise Nurding

New Zealand is a place where you can get well. – James Nesbitt

New Zealand Phrases

“There is only one word for New Zealand… EPIC” – Bear Grylls

New Zealand looks like the future to me –  Paula Scher

“If you want to buy a slice of Heaven, you need to make New Zealand your home.” – Rod Donald

In New Zealand I think we often take ourselves too seriously, and being able to laugh at yourself is necessary in life without being too precious. – Murray Mexted

One of the best things about growing up in New Zealand is that if you are prepared to work hard and have faith in yourself, truly anything is possible. – Peter Jackson

New Zealand needs to balance its environmental responsibilities with its economic opportunities, because the risk is that if you don’t do that – and you want to lead the world – then you might end up getting unintended consequences. – John Key

New Zealand Captions for Instagram

New Zealand as a whole needs to save more, spend less and reduce our reliance on foreign debt. – John Key

Living in New Zealand, it’s like a different world – it is a different world. It’s very, very cool. – Luke Evans

New Zealand is such a down-to-earth place. – Emilia Wickstead

An interesting thing about New Zealand, you know, literature is that it really didn’t begin in any real sense until the 20th century. – Eleanor Catton

New Zealand – it’s very tight-knit, and everyone knows each other. – Julian Dennison

I have heard that in the New Zealand native tradition, the soul, when it dies, becomes a star –  Eleanor Catton

That’s the Best NZ Sayings

That’s the end of my bumper list, so I hope you’ve managed to find the  perfect New Zealand quote . 

I’d love to know which one is your favorite, and if I’ve missed any awesome quotes for New Zealand then please let me know in the comments below.

Looking for Instagram Captions?

If you want to read more, check out some of my  most popular quotes posts :

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• If you prefer visuals check out my  Pinterest board  dedicated to Quotes and Captions.

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My Ultimate Road Trip Itinerary for New Zealand’s South Island

The South Island of New Zealand is the country’s larger (but less-populated) island…but it’s also the most visually stunning. With just 23% of the country’s 5.2 million inhabitants, it’s a dramatic and beautiful island, home to wineries, wildlife, high-octane adventure sports, and pristine beaches. This is the island that people end up spending more time in and, while everyone sticks to just a few locations, there’s a lot of hidden areas here worth exploring.

At a minimum, you’ll want to spend two weeks exploring. Anything less than that and you’ll feel rushed. As I said, there’s a lot to see here. That way you can see the big draws, get off the beaten path, do some good hiking, and not rush (travel between places can take longer than you think)!

With two weeks to traverse New Zealand’s South Island, what route should you take? Where should you start, and where should you finish?

Below is my suggested itinerary to help you plan your South Island road trip to will ensure that you see the highlights, make the most of your time, and get off the beaten path.

Table of Contents

New Zealand Highlights: South Island

Choosing the right vehicle, new zealand road trip itinerary: a two-week south island route, things to remember when road-tripping new zealand.

Just looking for a few pointers to start your planning? These are things I think every visitor should experience:

• Hike and marvel at the Franz Josef Glacier
• Go skydiving in Queenstown
• Ride the gondola in Christchurch
• Chill out on a boat cruise in Wanaka
• Explore the fjords of Fiordland National Park

Looking to see the other island? Check out my detailed road trip itinerary for the North Island!  

Before you plan your route, you need a way to get around. Road-tripping New Zealand by campervan is very popular, especially among budget-conscious travelers, as the vehicle serves as both accommodation and transportation. If you want a campervan, there are five main rental agencies:

• Travellers Autobarn
• Wicked Campers

Prices vary a lot. Your daily rate will change depending on where you pick up the vehicle, if you are dropping it off at a different place, how long you are renting it for, how far in advance you book, and when during the year you book (in the high season, prices seem to double!).

If living out of a van for a few weeks doesn’t sound like your idea of a fun time, simply rent a normal car and book accommodation along the way. Discover Cars is my go-to rental site, as they search rental agencies big and small to find the best deals.

Start your trip in Queenstown. Even if your international flight lands in Auckland on the North Island, you can easily get a cheap flight to Queenstown, which also has direct flights to many major cities in Australia if your trip to New Zealand is part of a larger adventure.

Queenstown is also known as “the adventure capital of New Zealand.” It’s the launching pad for every sort of adventure activity you can think of, including zip-lining, bungee jumping, canyon swinging, rafting, and even skydiving . You can also try more unique activities like river surfing, jet-boating , go-karting, paddle-boarding, and paragliding.

For something more laid-back, take a wine tour in and around Queenstown. I always do this when I visit (the grape of choice here is the light-red Pinot Noir). If wine isn’t your thing, enjoy a relaxing cruise on Lake Wakatipu for some stunning views!

For a list of more things to do in Queenstown, check out my detailed guide .

I loved the area here. There’s a lot of good hiking and beautiful views. There are many fjords and sounds to explore in Fiordland National Park, but I particularly love Milford Sound. This amazing fjord is best known for the towering Mitre Peak and its surrounding rainforest. You can stroll the wooded shoreline trail for perfect views of the peak, or take the Chasm Walk on the Cleddau River to get close to powerful waterfalls.

The fjord itself is home to seal and penguin colonies. You can often see pods of dolphins frolicking in the waters too. Explore by boat and check out the Milford Discovery Centre and Underwater Observatory to see rare black coral and other underwater life. Southern Discoveries is the only company doing cruises that include the Underwater Observatory, starting from 165 NZD .

While less well known than Milford, Doubtful Sound is the deepest and second-largest fjord in the country. You can only get to Doubtful via boat. A wilderness cruise of Doubtful Sound costs 299 NZD.

If you like hiking, one of the most popular walks in the national park is the Kepler Track, passing under snow-covered mountain peaks and lush verdant forests. It’s very close to the Te Anau basecamp, and the easy access and scenic views along the way make it a great choice. The whole loop is 37 miles (60 kilometers). It takes three or four days to complete.

Note: There’s limited bus service in the area so having a car here would be very helpful.

Where to Stay: Milford Sound Lodge – This is the only place to stay nearby. It’s not cheap, but the views are unmatched, the complimentary breakfast is delicious, and the contemporary rooms are cozy yet modern. If you don’t mind driving a bit more, you can stay in the closest town, Te Anau.  

Wanaka has become something of a smaller version of Queenstown, so you can expect plenty of adventure sports opportunities. I’m not an adrenaline junkie (and I don’t like heights). But if it’s your cup of tea, you can go skydiving, canyoning, rock-climbing, paragliding, jet-boating, or mountaineering, along with scores of other activities that will get your heart pounding.

You can take a happy hour boat cruise , go fishing or hiking, or do another wine tour (there’s no such thing as too many wine tours!).

The food scene here is really great too.

For a list of more things to do in Wanaka, check out my detailed guide .

Hiking the glaciers is an unforgettable experience. Sadly, because they have receded and are melting quickly due to climate change, the caves and trails have been shut down. Now, the only way to trek on them is via heli-hike ( an epic half-day or full-day helicopter/hiking experience ). These are expensive (500 NZD), but the helicopter ride, trekking, and experience as a whole are worth the price in my opinion. It’s one of those once-in-a-lifetime experiences you won’t regret.

Conversely, you can just hike to the glacier face and take photos from a distance. There are tons of viewing points (where you’ll also see sobering photos of just how far the glaciers have receded over the years).

There are also a lot of activities to do nearby. You can go trekking through a rainforest (yes, there is a rainforest nearby), admire towering waterfalls, and swim (or go kayaking ) in pristine lakes. There are also some natural thermal pools that you can take a soak in to soothe your post-hike muscles.

The best way to see the park is by kayak. That way, you can explore all the little coves and beaches that really make the area special. Full-day rentals start at around 110 NZD, or you can join a guided kayaking tour starting at 190 NZD. You can also take a scenic cruise around the park for 95 NZD.

If you’re aching for some serious surf, sand, and sun time, head to Te Puketea Bay. This pristine, crescent-shaped beach hugs up against turquoise waters, and lounging here is worth the journey to Abel Tasman alone. You can also walk up to the centuries-old Maori fort, called Pa, for excellent views of the surrounding nature.

Where to Stay: Marahau Beach Camp – This accommodation offers dormitories and small private cottages, a communal kitchen, and a seasonal restaurant. There are also tent and campervan sites if you want to save money. It’s a chill, no-frills spot.

From here, pick your last stop: either drive onward to Christchurch and end there, or take the ferry over to Wellington (an adventure in and of itself!) and end there. Either way, you’ll be able to catch a cheap and quick flight back to Auckland for your international flight home.

While there’s not a lot “to do” per se, the vibe is really relaxed, and it’s worth taking your time if you can. Be sure to ride the gondola , visit the Canterbury Museum, and tour Quake City (a unique and interactive museum that recounts personal stories from the 2010 and 2011 earthquakes).

For a list of more things to do in Christchurch, check out my city guide .

Where to Stay: Urbanz – This is an awesome hostel downtown, with friendly staff and a huge kitchen. There’s also a bar, a pool table, fast Wi-Fi, laundry, movies, and comfy couches, as well as a parking lot.  

• Traffic flows on the left here (not the right, like in the US or Canada).
• You must always park your car in the direction that traffic is going (or risk a fine).
• There are plenty of pull-off points for taking photos — use them instead of stopping at a random spot along the side of the road, which can be quite dangerous given how tight the roads are here.
• Roads here are winding, so remember that it might take longer than you expect to cover a particular distance.
• As long as your current and valid driver’s license is in English, you don’t need an International Driver’s Permit.
• If you’re traveling by campervan, use the CamperMate app to find nearby campsites, gas stations, and dump stations.

New Zealand’s South Island is an unforgettable destination, where I always have a blast. It’s a region loaded with epic landscapes, friendly Kiwis, and a rich culture. After visiting a bunch over the past decade and a half, I’ve learned firsthand how awesome a road trip there can be. Just follow the route above and you’ll be guaranteed to have an epic visit to this picturesque isle!

Book Your Trip to New Zealand: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight Use Skyscanner to find a cheap flight. They are my favorite search engine because they search websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is left unturned!

Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld as they have the biggest inventory and best deals. If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as they consistently return the cheapest rates for guesthouses and cheap hotels.

If you’re looking for specific places to stay, here is a complete list of my favorite hostels in New Zealand .

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

• Safety Wing (best for everyone)
• InsureMyTrip (for those over 70)
• Medjet (for additional evacuation coverage)

Looking for the Best Companies to Save Money With? Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel. I list all the ones I use to save money when I’m on the road. They will save you money when you travel too.

Want More Information on New Zealand? Be sure to visit our robust destination guide on New Zealand for even more planning tips!

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Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I recommend only products and companies I use and the income goes to keeping the site community supported and ad free.

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Helpful tips

Here's a few useful links to help with planning your trip to Aotearoa New Zealand.

• Best things to do in the North Island
• Best things to do in the South Island
• Other Islands
• Best ways to travel around
• Calculate travel times and distances

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The Dramatic highlights of Auckland, including the Harbour Bridge and Bastion Point.

Guests enjoy an enchanting private visit to the famed Hobbiton movie location.

Cruising majestic Milford Sound and taking in the soaring mountain scenery.

Rotorua's geothermal wonders are seen on a guided walk past geysers, mud holes and more.

Wonders of New Zealand 2025

1411 Opus Place , Downers Grove , United States of America .

The extraordinary majesty of New Zealand is evident in the magical landscapes, indigenous Maori culture, and local cuisine and wine. Private and exclusive activities take center stage, thanks to A&K.

Visit the All Blacks Experience attraction in Auckland. A charming private tour of Hobbiton, immersing yourself in the breathtaking world of J.R.R. Tolkien’s Middle‑Earth™ on an enchanting visit to the beloved movie set. A private visit to discover the culture and traditions of the Maori people and lunch at a local home. Tastings of local wines and food specialties during visits to Waiheke Island and the Marlborough wine region. A hands-on culinary adventure using seasonal ingredients, a personalised experience exclusively for A&K guests. A cruise around Milford Sound amid soaring, glacier carved mountain peaks and privately visit a working farm to witness a sheepdog muster a flock of sheep.

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This website helps visitors connect with providers of great New Zealand tourism experiences. It is not intended to give any assurance that any particular provider meets certain quality standards or legal obligations. Please contact this business for more information. See also: newzealand.com terms of use (opens in new window) .