2 guesses as to why you’ve clicked on this article – you’re planning your New Zealand itinerary and looking for inspo, or just plain curious about what the country has to offer. Either way, you’ve come to the right place.
From whale-watching to a thrilling ski plane adventure, we’ve gathered the best activities to check out in New Zealand during the spring and winter season.
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Image adapted from: @izelsa_ & @julianexplores via Instagram
PSA to nature lovers: the Milford Sound Day Tour (S$161.65/pax) is not to be missed. This 1-day tour will take you to the famed fiord, where you can witness the beauty of the towering peaks and thundering waterfalls. Once you’ve ooh-ed and aah-ed, hop on the Whale Watching Cruise in Kaikoura (S$137.05/pax) – you’ll be able to see giant sperm whales up-close.
Image credit: @nikk_brooks_ via Instagram
You can also board the TSS Earnslaw Cruise to Walter Peak Station (S$68.45/pax). Remember to get your cameras ready as the steamship will sail across the calming waters of Lake Wakatipu, past The Remarkables, Cecil Peak, and Walter Peak.
Image credit: @adis.traveldiary via Instagram
There’s the option to take the TranzAlpine between Christchurch and Greymouth (S$156.95) too, if you’re more comfortable travelling on land. The journey from 1 destination to another will take 5 hours, and you’ll be blessed with views of the Waimakariri River, powdered mountains, and lush greenery.
Image adapted from: @samantharamos_ & @anytkabarochova via Instagram
Of course, LOTR fans will know that this country was also where the show was filmed. Join the Hobbiton and Waitomo Caves Tour (S$287.30/pax) to see the iconic hobbit holes and even Bilbo’s house. The tour also includes a 45-minute tour around the Waitomo Glowworm Caves.
A more affordable option would be the 2-hour Hobbiton Movie Set Guided Tour (S$76.15), which will cover various famous locations including The Green Dragon Inn and The Mill. Consider your Hobbit fantasies fulfilled.
Image credit: @jovitarusli84 via Instagram
If your eyes lit up at the mention of glowworm caves, consider joining the Te Anau Glowworm Cave Tour (S$84.69/pax) for a glowin’ good time. The guide will take you through the limestone passages and whirlpools, and you’ll get to see the homes of these unique critters.
Image credit: @igorhoogerwerf via Instagram
Another “glow-in-the-dark” activity would be the 2-hour Mt. John Observatory Tour (S$132.05/pax). Astronomy experts will guide you on using advanced telescopes to view the constellations and star clusters, so you can expect to walk away with newfound knowledge about the Milky Way and Orion Nebula.
Image credit: @rossinthesea via Instagram
If all that exploring has got you knackered, take a dip in the Onsen Hot Pools in Queenstown (S$72.65) to relieve your sore muscles. The pools are filled with water that contains natural minerals, which helps you achieve rejuvenated and baby smooth skin. You’ll also be overlooking the gorgeous Shotover River and Remarkables ski area – the perfect view to get your zen on.
Image credit: Nomad Safaris
Thrill seekers, we’ve got you covered too. Embark on an off-road experience with the Queenstown Quad Bike Adventure (S$244.95) where you’ll get to whizz across the hills of Queenstown for 2.5 hours. Waterbabies can also check out the Wildlife Kayaking Adventure in Kaikoura (S$116.25/pax) and row alongside marine animals like dolphins and fur seals.
Image adapted from: @couple.of.chiros via Instagram
Those travelling between June-September will experience a Kiwi winter. Take the opportunity to go on the Heli Hike in Franz Josef Glacier (S$500.35) – this includes a helicopter ride and guided hike up the frosty Franz Josef Glacier.
You can also visit Mt. Cook via the Ski Plane and Helicopter Experience (S$384.05) for stunning views of Hochstetter Icefall and icy glaciers. And if the snowy landscape is igniting your interest for some winter activities, you can sign up for Ski Lesson Packages at The Remarkables from S$219.25/pax – it includes 2 2-hour lessons and full equipment rental.
And there you have it – a tonne of activities for the adventure seekers, chill travellers, and even Lord of the Rings fans. To further ease your burden of planning, you can also get your SIM Card for New Zealand (S$21.79), travel insurance, and find affordable car rentals via Klook. This way, you’ll have 3 less things to worry about.
Chateau on the Park Christchurch (left), Haka Lodge Auckland (right).
Image adapted from: @bright_xo & @vanthevibe via Instagram
While we’re at it, you can also book your accommodation via Klook too. Those staying in Christchurch can go for Chateau on the Park (from S$104/night), set opposite Hagley Park. If you’re visiting the north of New Zealand, consider Haka Lodge Auckland (from S$71/night) – it’s a 10-minute drive to Mt. Eden and a 15-minute walk to Auckland Sky Tower.
And for a bao ga liao money-saving solution, get the New Zealand Klook Pass (S$149.45). This grants you entry to a slew of activities, including many of the aforementioned ones like the Hobbiton and Waitomo Caves Tour, Auckland Whale and Dolphin Watching Cruise, and TSS Earnslaw Cruise.
So whether it’s taking the scenic TranzAlpine train ride to Christchurch, testing your adrenaline limits and going quad biking, or simply chilling in the hot pools, know that you’ll be in for a good ol’ treat when you visit New Zealand in the spring or winter. Happy travels!
This post was brought to you by Klook.
Cover image adapted from: @rossinthesea, @adis.traveldiary & @couple.of.chiros via Instagram
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