The most beautiful national parks in New Zealand
When we think of New Zealand, the first thing that comes to mind is breathtaking natural spectacles .
The country, which could not be further away from Germany , offers countless beautiful national parks. And because we are so fascinated by them, we will introduce you to our top 3 national parks at the beginning .
Fiordland National Park
In the southwest of the South Island
Here you experience a pure nature experience on an area of 12,500 km². Fiordland National Park is a paradise for hiking and wildlife viewing .
The fjord Milford Sound is particularly well-known and a very popular travel destination , which you can also explore by boat – and you absolutely should!
Tongariro National Park
New Zealand’s first national park
According to GROWTHEOLOGY.COM, Tongariro is located on the North Island of New Zealand and was declared a national park in 1887.
The national park is an impressive volcanic massif from which three volcanoes rise: Tongariro, Ngauruhoe and Ruapehu. Very close by you will find crystal clear lakes and impressive craters.
Danger! The volcanoes are still very active – be sure to find out about the current situation before your visit.
Abel Tasman
Smallest national park
In contrast to the other national parks, Abel Tasman is more comfortable and relaxed. You can really relax here.
We were particularly impressed by the beautiful beaches with the flat, clear blue sea .
Camping is great in Abel Tasman, as there are numerous campsites here.
The most beautiful beaches in New Zealand
Since the country is such a natural paradise, there is of course no shortage of beaches. We show you here which ones you shouldn’t miss on your New Zealand trip.
Ninety Mile Beach
It’s not 90 miles long
We don’t know why the Ninety Mile Beach is called what it is called. Because it is “only” 55 miles , i.e. 88 kilometers long.
Nevertheless, the beach is a real highlight, because here you can walk on the sand for ages, swim in the sea or even camp between the dunes .
By the way, Ninety Mile Beach is an official street . This means that you can also drive here by car – but be careful not to get stuck in the sand, otherwise it will be very uncomfortable.
Wharariki Beach
This picture speaks for itself
It is a real jewel among the beaches because the rock formations on the beach are unique.
Wharariki Beach is located in the very north of the South Island and you can reach it via several small hiking trails.
With a bit of luck you can even see some really cute seals here.
Moeraki Boulders Beach
Unusual rocks right on the beach
On the east coast of the South Island you will see something on the beach that you have never seen before. The so-called Moeraki Boulders.
These are spherical rocks that are just scattered all over the beach and are actually larger than the photos suggest.
We think they look a bit like turtles – but everyone has their own opinion on that.
Arrival information
It’s a whopping 18,300 kilometers from Germany to New Zealand – okay, joking aside.
A trip to New Zealand is literally halfway around the world and costs a lot of time and money. You should be aware of this and accordingly it is worth staying longer in New Zealand .
There are no direct flights from Germany , you have to change at least once.
You have good departure options from Munich , Düsseldorf and Frankfurt and arrival is usually in Auckland.
Popular stopovers include Singapore or Hong Kong .
We recommend that you take a break there for at least a day. Because while you’re there, it’s worth taking a look at these cities .
For flight comparison and booking , we recommend the Skyscanner portal.
The most beautiful cities in New Zealand
Auckland
This is New Zealand’s busiest airport
The first port of call in New Zealand is usually Auckland on the North Island. With more than 1.5 million inhabitants , around a third of the entire population of New Zealand lives in the big city.
Before continuing your journey inland, it’s worth staying in Auckland for a few days and enjoying the skyline views.
The highlight is the Sky Tower , which is a proud 328 meters high.
Christchurch
Largest city on the South Island
Christchurch is not even half the size of Auckland and is still the second largest city in New Zealand.
Christchurch is particularly known for the historic trams that run through the city and the cathedral on Cathedral Square.
Christchurch is also a great starting point for many great nature trips .
Queenstown
Small town on the South Island
Queenstown is not big. But for us it is one of the most beautiful cities in New Zealand.
Queenstown is located directly on idyllic Lake Wakapitu and on the edge of the Southern Alps.
The highlight is the breathtaking view of the Remarkables mountain range , which is also one of New Zealand’s most popular ski areas.
Wellington
In the very south of the North Island
Many claim Auckland is the capital of New Zealand – but no, it is not. The capital is Wellington.
And there’s plenty to do in Wellington. A nice destination is the botanical garden or the observatory right next to it.
A ride on New Zealand’s only funicular is also very cool .
