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Top Holidays

The most Instagrammable places in New Zealand

  • Published 18 April 2018

With a varied landscape and two islands of splendour to explore, New Zealand is a destination that just keeps on giving for the avid photographer. If you fancy spicing up your timeline these top picks will guarantee those double taps, and a new array of followers… just be sure to tag @winged_boots

Queenstown

Known as the adventure capital of the world, Queenstown on South Island is a true paradise in every sense of the word. If you’re an adrenaline junkie in the need of a fix, you’ll love the water and land sports on offer. Everything from kayaking and jet-skiing to bungee jumping and canyon swinging ensures you’ll be on the move from the get-go.
 
However, for times when you do want to chill out there are plenty of fine dining restaurants and bars should you fancy a feast for the appetite as well as the eyes. Boat cruises are also on hand if you’re in the mood for an unwind on the waves of Lake Wakatipu too.
 
Where to Stay: Eichardt’s Private Hotel


If you’re staying on North Island and fancy witnessing something magical the Waitomo Glowworm Caves are certain to satisfy. Most well-known for a species of glow worm called Arachnocampa Luminosa that are exclusive to New Zealand, the only thing brighter during this spectacle will be the smile on your face. Tours occur throughout the day, departing every 15-minutes from 9am – 5pm with bookings being essential due to tour numbers being restricted. The caves are 90-minutes away from Auckland by car so if you fancy a day-trip with a difference, this choice is fantastic.
 
Where to stay: Sofitel Queenstown Hotel and Spa

Waitomo Glowworm Caves

If you’re staying on North Island and fancy witnessing something magical the Waitomo Glowworm Caves are certain to satisfy. Most well-known for a species of glow worm called Arachnocampa Luminosa that are exclusive to New Zealand, the only thing brighter during this spectacle will be the smile on your face. Tours occur throughout the day, departing every 15-minutes from 9am – 5pm with bookings being essential due to tour numbers being restricted. The caves are 90-minutes away from Auckland by car so if you fancy a day-trip with a difference, this choice is fantastic.
 
Where to stay: Sofitel Queenstown Hotel and Spa

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Lone Tree, Lake Wanaka

One of the most photographed trees in New Zealand, the ‘lone tree of Lake Wanaka’ stands proud on South Island overlooking the Southern Alps. Many holiday makers stumble across the famed sight without even trying, due to there being no signs to guide travellers. Found near the Mount Aspiring National Park, regardless of which angle you decide to snap, a beautiful pic is guaranteed. Make sure to take advantage of the beach access found mere minutes from the tree so you can top up your tan while you're at it too. Why not a pack a picnic and make a real day of it?
 
Where to stay: Hilton Queenstown Resort & Spa
 


Ttaumatawhakatangihangakoauauotamateaturipukakapikimaungahor-onukupokaiwhenuakitanatahu. We aren’t going to type it again but this hill on North Island holds the record for being the longest place name in the world with 85 letters. Named after a Maori explorer who adventured through New Zealand, the title translates as, “the summit where Tamatea, the man with the big knees, the slider, climber of mountains, the land-swallower who travelled about, played his nose flute to his loved one.” While the idea of romance has changed quite a bit since then, it seems a similar sense of humour definitely hasn’t with many word lovers and tourists coming just for a snap of them in front of the sign.

Longest Place name in the world

Ttaumatawhakatangihangakoauauotamateaturipukakapikimaungahor-onukupokaiwhenuakitanatahu. We aren’t going to type it again but this hill on North Island holds the record for being the longest place name in the world with 85 letters. Named after a Maori explorer who adventured through New Zealand, the title translates as, “the summit where Tamatea, the man with the big knees, the slider, climber of mountains, the land-swallower who travelled about, played his nose flute to his loved one.” While the idea of romance has changed quite a bit since then, it seems a similar sense of humour definitely hasn’t with many word lovers and tourists coming just for a snap of them in front of the sign.

Hobbiton Movie Set

New Zealand is well known as the filming location of The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit trilogies, so it would almost be rude not to venture to the sets and locations where some of the scenes were shot, most notably Hobbiton. With houses, open plains, mountains and so much more to explore, you'll feel like you're in the film itself. It's up to you whether you want to dress up or not! Tours happen constantly, with various options available… so what are you waiting for? It’s time to find that ring!
 
Where to stay: Cordis Auckland
 


Calling all film buffs and adventurers… this one’s for you! From Avatar and King Kong to The Lord of the Rings and The Last Samurai, Cathedral Cove has been featured in countless films thanks to its rock formations, cliffs and picture-perfect beaches. Covering more than 840-hectares and a marine reserve in its own right, Cathedral Cove – also known as Te Whanganui-A-Hei Marine Reserve – can be found a short drive from Auckland. With snorkelling, diving, kayaking and various walking tours available to book yourself on, this is a place where no filter is needed.
 
Where to stay: SKYCITY Grand Hotel

Cathedral Cove

Calling all film buffs and adventurers… this one’s for you! From Avatar and King Kong to The Lord of the Rings and The Last Samurai, Cathedral Cove has been featured in countless films thanks to its rock formations, cliffs and picture-perfect beaches. Covering more than 840-hectares and a marine reserve in its own right, Cathedral Cove – also known as Te Whanganui-A-Hei Marine Reserve – can be found a short drive from Auckland. With snorkelling, diving, kayaking and various walking tours available to book yourself on, this is a place where no filter is needed.
 
Where to stay: SKYCITY Grand Hotel

Rotorua

Sitting atop a volcanic plate, Rotorua is a town that’s a playground for every adventurer. Lakes, hot springs and craters can all be found here, ensuring fantastic shots and panoramic views as far as the eye can see. Keen crafter? Wood sculpting and weaving schools are available to peruse and purchase goods as well as have a go at making some yourself. The Wai O Tapu Thermal Wonderland is a definite must-visit while you’re here too, complete with a champagne pool, a daily erupting geyser and various other delights. How’s that for some adrenaline? 


Milford South is an idyllic nirvana found on South Island in New Zealand. With fjords, lakes and glaciers found on the skyline, you can forget the skyscrapers and pollution of urban cities and get back to nature. The famed Milford Track can be found here if you’re a keen hiker, with kayaking a popular watersport so you can explore even further. A helicopter tour is a must though if you’re here for the day, with the best views in the house guaranteed.

Milford South

Milford South is an idyllic nirvana found on South Island in New Zealand. With fjords, lakes and glaciers found on the skyline, you can forget the skyscrapers and pollution of urban cities and get back to nature. The famed Milford Track can be found here if you’re a keen hiker, with kayaking a popular watersport so you can explore even further. A helicopter tour is a must though if you’re here for the day, with the best views in the house guaranteed.

Lupin Season

While it’s technically not a destination, lupin season is a time of the year that is nature lovers will enjoy. From September through to January you can relish the flora of South Island with purples, blues, pinks and green flowers sprouting up around the riverbeds. Legend has it that the wife of a local farmer spent years planting them naked on the back of a white stallion. We feel like it may have been embellished over time!
 
To book your picture-perfect stay in New Zealand temporarily close Instagram and call one of our personal travel managers now on 0203 816 0985 or alternatively enquire here
 

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