Top 10 spring activities

Known as the "eighth wonder of the world," Milford Sound is a must-see destination in Fiordland National Park. Go on an unforgettable cruise adventure with RealNZ(opens in new window) as you explore its breathtaking beauty. Cruise past towering waterfalls, lush rainforests, and sheer cliffs that rise dramatically from the water. Keep an eye out for playful dolphins, seals, and the occasional penguin along the way.

Southern Discoveries, a trusted operator since 1954, brings the beauty of Milford Sound to life in its experiences. A highlight is the Underwater Observatory, New Zealand's only floating structure of its kind, where visitors descend 10 meters beneath the surface to witness a hidden marine world teeming with rare black coral and a myriad of sea creatures.

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Located in Matakana, just an hour from Auckland, Sculptureum(opens in new window) is a unique destination blending art, nature, and fine dining. Explore three sculpture-filled gardens, visit indoor galleries with diverse artworks, dine at Rothko, the on-site restaurant, and enjoy wines produced from the property's own vineyard. 

Or experience the magic of Hamilton Gardens this spring, a must-visit in the Waikato. Unlike traditional botanical gardens, Hamilton Gardens features themed gardens that explore history and culture. Wander through the Italian Renaissance Garden with its classical sculptures and vibrant blooms, find peace in the serene Japanese Garden of Contemplation, admire the Indian Char Bagh Garden with its Mughal-inspired design, and enjoy the Elizabethan charm of the Tudor Gardence.

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Unwind at Secret Spot Hot Tubs in Rotorua. Nestled in a forest setting, these private hot tubs offer a relaxing escape with breathtaking views of the surrounding nature. Enjoy a soak in natural, cedar wood tubs while taking in the tranquil ambiance. The perfect way to relax after a day of exploring.

If forests aren’t your thing, try He Puna Taimoana, in Christchurch where you can enjoy luxurious thermal pools with gorgeous views of the Pacific Ocean.

Or if mountains are your thing, Maruia Hot Springs is a retreat nestled in the Southern Alps surrounded by nature. The eco-friendly resort features outdoor pools with breathtaking views of the mountains, along with spa services and wellness activities like yoga and sauna sessions.

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Experience the enchanting Natural Flames Guided Walk in Murchison. This unique guided tour takes you through lush native bush to a hidden natural wonder: an eternal flame burning amidst the forest.

Enjoy fascinating stories from knowledgeable guides, and enjoy a hot cup of tea brewed right on the flames. This magical adventure combines natural beauty and intriguing history, making it a must-do in the South Island.

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At Dive Tatapouri you can encounter an array of marine life, including stingrays and various fish species. This dive site offer a unique underwater experience with opportunities to feed and interact with the local marine inhabitants, that even have their own names. Whether you’re a seasoned diver or a beginner, Dive Tatapouri provides an exciting and educational underwater adventure.

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Nestled near the stunning Tongariro National Park, Owhango Adventures offers a variety of outdoor activities perfect for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. Enjoy guided canoe trips down the picturesque Whanganui River with knowledgeable māori guides, explore lush native forests on scenic hikes, or take a thrilling mountain biking journey through rugged terrains and visit the "Bridge to Nowhere"(opens in new window).

Or, if you are keen to paddle the awa (river) on your own steam, you can also stop for a night at the marae, nestled in the bush, and be prepared to be welcomed on to māori land in a Pōwhiri. It's one of NZ's great journeys.

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Discover the beauty of Hokianga Harbour(opens in new window), a historic and picturesque  harbour is renowned for its stunning natural landscapes and rich Māori heritage.

Kayaking enthusiasts can explore the calm waters of the harbour with Hokianga Harbour Kayak Tours. Fishing opportunities abound with Hokianga Fishing Charters(opens in new window).

The area is deeply connected to Māori heritage, with the Footsteps of Kupe tour(opens in new window) giving insights into the legendary Polynesian navigator Kupe’s arrival. Local iwi (tribes) share stories and traditions that have shaped the area, adding a rich cultural layer to your visit.

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Explore the Cardrona Distillery, set in the scenic Cardrona Valley, where craftsmanship and local ingredients come together to create exceptional spirits. Known for its award-winning whiskies, gins, and liqueurs, the distillery offers a glimpse into the art of spirit-making through guided tours.

Discover the meticulous process behind their premium products and enjoy a tasting experience that highlights the distinctive flavours and quality of Cardrona Distillery’s offerings, all set against a stunning backdrop. 

Or visit the Reefton Distillery(opens in new window), located in the historic town of Reefton on the West Coast. This boutique distillery is renowned for its high-quality craft spirits, including the popular Little Biddy Gin, made using traditional methods and locally sourced ingredients. Take a tour to see the distillation process up close and learn about the rich history and innovative techniques behind their unique products.

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For a thrilling zip-line adventure head to Canopy Tours Rotorua to get a unique perspective of Rotorua’s lush canopy. Glide above the forest floor, crossing scenic suspension bridges and encountering native wildlife along the way. This eco-friendly tour combines adrenaline-pumping excitement with a chance to learn about the region’s conservation efforts and the importance of protecting its natural heritage.

For another exhilarating zipline adventure, head to The Flying Fox(opens in new window) in Glenorchy, near Queenstown. This adventure offers a thrilling experience with ziplines that soar over the stunning Dart River and through the spectacular landscapes of the Southern Alps. Glide from platform to platform and take in breathtaking views of the surrounding wilderness.

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Spring is a great time to experience New Zealand’s birdlife. A short drive from Auckland, The Coromandel peninsula is an iconic birding destination with godwits (kuaka) arriving from as far afield as Siberia and Alaska to the Miranda Shorebird Centre(opens in new window).

It’s also hatching season for New Zealand's flightless icon, with the first kiwis emerging from mid-September. Book a tour at the National Kiwi Hatchery Aotearoa in Rotorua to marvel at how humans help hatch and raise these precious chicks.

There's plenty of other places you can see kiwi chicks, such as Pūkaha National Wildlife Centre at Mt Bruce, in the Wairarapa, Ngā Manu Nature(opens in new window) in Kāpiti and Willowbank in Christchurch. And don't forget the West Coast Wildlife Centre in Franz Josef, which is the largest kiwi hatching facility in the South Island.

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