New Zealand is the kind of country that calls to the adventurer in me. Its amazing rugged landscape, immortalized in those Lord of the Rings movies, can bring inspiration to the thrill seekers, the explorers, and the casual travelers alike. I’ve come up with a list of essential New Zealand destinations for the man who loves wilderness trekking and adventure travel.
Queenstown is a popular holiday city among Kiwi locals and lately, foreign visitors. Set alongside a picturesque bay that was carved out by glaciers, Queenstown is a hub for extreme sports and adventure. Sign up with AJ Hackett, a company founded by a pioneer of commercial bungee jumping, to try the 43-meter leap off the Kawarau Gorge Suspension Bridge.
From Queenstown, journey out to the western coast, a mountainous region popular among hikers. There are a couple of glaciers good for trekking in this area: Fox Glacier and Franz Josef Glacier. Whichever glacier you explore, you’ll come across stunning scenery.
The Fox and Franz Josef Glaciers are part of the Westland Tai Poutini National Park. Rainforest and wetlands cover much of the park area. This is a good destination not only for hiking, but also for observing numerous wild avian species, including white herons. If you’re an avid birdwatcher, you can’t miss it.
In another part of the national park, you’ll find Lake Mapourika, a good spot for kayaking. You can also try kayaking at the Okarito Lagoon. When you’ve had enough exercise, relax with a dip in the Welcome Flat hot pools.
There’s a lot more to see and do. If you’re an avid hiker, you can’t pass up a visit to the Arthur’s Pass National Park in the Southern Alps region. You might also want to visit Abel Tasman National Park, where you’ll find one of New Zealand’s Great Walks. And the North Island’s Tongariro National Park, which is home to three active volcanoes.
When you’re ready to sit back for more leisurely recreation… personally, I like to spend time in casinos. Being new in New Zealand and hopping from one activity to another makes it hard to indulge in this activity. Thankfully, the power of the internet allows me to log on to casino websites like Slots Heaven whenever I’m taking the time to unwind. New Zealand offers great wifi services in the cities but may be sporadic in the countryside. You can avail of prepaid data services so you can enjoy being connected while on the road.
There are many ways to enjoy New Zealand, whether on the move with friends or enjoying time by yourself. Got more ideas, or tips? Let us know in the comments below!
