The Ultimate Summer Travel Guide

Summer in New Zealand is a time for sun, adventure, and exploring the breathtaking natural beauty the country has to offer. Whether you’re looking for beach days, scenic hikes, or cultural experiences, New Zealand has it all. Here’s your ultimate guide to the best summer destinations and activities in New Zealand, guaranteed to make this summer unforgettable.

1. Waiheke Island: Beaches and Vineyards
Just a short 40-minute ferry ride from Auckland, Waiheke Island is the perfect destination for a summer escape. Known for its golden beaches and award-winning vineyards, it’s a haven for both relaxation and indulgence.

Start your day with a swim at Onetangi Beach, one of the island’s most popular spots with its long stretch of sand and calm waters. For something more secluded, Palm Beach offers a quieter vibe. Once you’ve had your fill of sun and sea, head to one of Waiheke’s many vineyards for a wine-tasting experience like no other. Mudbrick Vineyard and Cable Bay Vineyards are just two of the top choices, offering stunning views, world-class wines, and delicious food.

For the adventurous, Waiheke also offers activities like zip-lining, coastal walks, and paddleboarding, making it the ideal island getaway for all types of travellers.

2. Bay of Islands: Marine Paradise
The Bay of Islands is a summer playground for those who love being on the water. With 144 islands scattered across crystal-clear waters, it’s the perfect destination for boat cruises, dolphin-watching, and kayaking. One of the highlights is a boat trip to the famous Hole in the Rock, a stunning natural formation you can sail through when the tide is right.

If you’re looking for a more cultural experience, visit Russell, New Zealand’s first capital, where you can explore historic sites or enjoy a meal at The Duke of Marlborough, New Zealand’s oldest pub. The Waitangi Treaty Grounds are another must-see, offering insight into the country’s founding document and its significance to Māori culture.

3. Abel Tasman National Park: Hiking and Kayaking
For nature lovers, Abel Tasman National Park on the northern tip of the South Island is a summer dream. Famous for its golden beaches, turquoise waters, and lush native forests, it’s a paradise for both hikers and kayakers.

The Abel Tasman Coast Track is one of New Zealand’s Great Walks and can be done in sections or as a multi-day hike. The trail offers breathtaking views of the coastline, with the chance to spot seals, dolphins, and a variety of birdlife along the way.

If you’d rather be on the water, kayaking along the park’s stunning shoreline is a must. Paddle through quiet bays, explore hidden coves, and enjoy the serenity of one of New Zealand’s most beautiful national parks.

4. Queenstown: The Adventure Capital                                                                                                    While Queenstown is a favourite in winter, summer transforms it into an outdoor paradise. Surrounded by towering mountains and the stunning Lake Wakatipu, this vibrant town is perfect for thrill-seekers and those who love the outdoors.

From bungee jumping and skydiving to jet boating on the Shotover River, Queenstown offers an adrenaline rush like no other. If you’re after something a little less intense, hop on the Skyline Gondola to Bob’s Peak, where you’ll find breathtaking panoramic views of the town and surrounding mountains. Once at the top, you can try the Luge, a fun and family-friendly way to race downhill on a track.

Queenstown is also home to some of New Zealand’s best wineries. A short drive from town takes you to the Gibbston Valley, famous for its Pinot Noir, where you can enjoy a relaxing wine-tasting experience among the vineyards.

5. Milford Sound: New Zealand’s Eighth Wonder
Milford Sound, located in the heart of Fiordland National Park, is often described as the "eighth wonder of the world" for its dramatic landscapes and stunning natural beauty. While you can visit year-round, summer is an especially great time to explore this majestic fjord.

The drive to Milford Sound is as spectacular as the destination itself. Wind your way through dense rainforests, past waterfalls, and towering mountains. Once there, take a boat cruise to fully appreciate the towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and wildlife that call Milford Sound home. Keep an eye out for dolphins, seals, and penguins as you sail through the still waters of the fjord.

For a closer experience, kayaking in the sound allows you to get up close to the natural wonders that make this one of New Zealand’s most famous spots.

6. Rotorua: Geothermal Wonders and Māori Culture
Famous for its geothermal activity, Rotorua offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural experiences. Summer in Rotorua means exploring bubbling mud pools, steaming geysers, and relaxing in natural hot springs.

A visit to Te Puia is a must, where you can see the impressive Pōhutu Geyser in action and explore Māori culture through traditional performances and a look at ancient arts like carving and weaving.
For a more relaxing experience, head to the Polynesian Spa for a soak in the mineral-rich hot pools, surrounded by stunning views of Lake Rotorua. Rotorua also offers a wide range of adventure activities, from zip-lining through the forest to mountain biking through the famous Redwoods Forest.

7. Coromandel Peninsula: Coastal Escapes
For a true coastal escape, head to the Coromandel Peninsula. With its rugged coastlines, golden beaches, and hidden coves, it’s the ultimate summer destination for beach lovers and nature enthusiasts alike.

One of the highlights of the Coromandel is Hot Water Beach, where you can dig your own hot pool in the sand and relax in naturally heated water as the waves lap at the shore. A short drive away is Cathedral Cove, famous for its stunning rock formations and crystal-clear waters. The walking track to the cove takes about 45 minutes and offers spectacular coastal views along the way.

For a more laid-back experience, explore the quaint town of Coromandel itself, known for its local arts, charming cafes, and peaceful vibe.

8. Mount Maunganui: Sun, Surf, and Views
Mount Maunganui, affectionately known as "The Mount," is a summer hotspot on the North Island’s east coast. Known for its beautiful surf beach and relaxed vibe, it’s a great spot for a summer holiday.

Start your day with a hike up Mauao, the iconic dormant volcano that overlooks the town. The summit offers unbeatable views of the coastline, the town below, and the surrounding countryside. After your hike, cool off with a swim at Main Beach, regularly voted one of New Zealand’s best beaches.

The town itself has plenty to offer, from trendy cafes and restaurants to boutique shopping, making it a popular spot for both relaxation and fun.

9. Nelson: Art and Wine
With its sunny weather and vibrant arts scene, Nelson is a great destination for those looking to combine culture and nature. The city is surrounded by stunning beaches, wineries, and the Abel Tasman National Park, offering a bit of everything for summer travellers.

Spend your days cycling through vineyards on a wine-tasting tour, visit local art galleries showcasing the region’s talent, or simply relax on the beaches that line the coast. Nelson also serves as the gateway to the Abel Tasman National Park, so it’s the perfect base for those wanting to explore the park by foot or kayak.

10. Tongariro National Park: The Tongariro Alpine Crossing
No summer in New Zealand is complete without tackling the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, often described as one of the world’s best day hikes. This 19.4 km trek takes you through otherworldly volcanic landscapes, passing by the famous Emerald Lakes, steaming craters, and ancient lava flows.

The crossing is particularly stunning in summer, with clear skies and more accessible trails, while the lingering snow on the peaks adds an extra element of beauty. Be sure to start early, as it’s a challenging hike that can take up to 8 hours, but the views along the way make it all worthwhile.