Best places to visit for autumn colors in New Zealand 1. Mackenzie Country. The area running from Tekapo to Lake Pukaki and further on to Twizel and Omarama is a good region to visit for leaf peeping in New Zealand. In Tekapo there are several lakes that are dotted with yellow trees during autumn. …Photo credits: Waiheke Island – flickr, Hobbiton – flickr, Waitmo Cave – CaveWorld Waitomo, Rotorua – flickr, Goat Island Marine Reserve – flickr. Discover eight amazing places to visit near Auckland; Piha Beach, Muriwai Beach, Rangitoto Island, Waiheke Island, Rotorua, Waitomo Caves, Hobbiton, Matakana Village Farmer's Market.Have you ever found yourself browsing through online shoe stores, only to be stumped by the different sizing options? If you’re from New Zealand or planning to buy shoes from a New...The best time to see the penguins in Oamaru is between September and February, when you may see up to 200 birds. Oamaru is a convenient place to stop when driving between Christchurch and Dunedin. It's about 3.5 hours south of Christchurch by car and 1.5 hours north of Dunedin. 07 of 07.Milford Sound. Photo: Niklas Ohlrogge | Unsplash. Finally, Milford Sound is one of the best places to visit in New Zealand in 2023. Located in Fiordland National Park, Milford Sound is a fjord created by a glacier. There are many ways to experience Milford Sound, but cruising through it on a tour boat is the most common.5. Spend the day at the Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa. Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa, Wellington. By Jeff McEwan, Te Papa. No trip to Wellington is complete without a visit to the incredible Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa. Discover great treasures and stories of this country, its unique …Jan 20, 2021 · 23. Stewart Island. Stewart Island isn’t technically on the South Island, however, the only way to get there is via the South Island – most commonly to take a ferry from Bluff just outside the city of Invercargill. This small predator-free island is one of the best places in New Zealand to spot a wild kiwi. 3. Nelson, South Island. Nelson, a coastal city on the northeastern tip of the South Island, is famous for its laid-back vibe, beautiful sunshine, and long golden beaches. It is one of the best towns to visit in New Zealand if you are looking for a nice, relaxing time away from all the other tourist hotspots.Which are the best places to visit in Queenstown? · 1. Lake Wakatipu: · 2. Skyline Gondola: · 3. Skippers Canyon: · 4. Queenstown Gardens: · 5. K...Dec 11, 2023 · Paris. #1 in World's Best Places to Visit for 2023-2024. France's magnetic City of Light is a perennial tourist destination, drawing visitors with its iconic attractions, like the Eiffel Tower and ... Jan 20, 2021 · 23. Stewart Island. Stewart Island isn’t technically on the South Island, however, the only way to get there is via the South Island – most commonly to take a ferry from Bluff just outside the city of Invercargill. This small predator-free island is one of the best places in New Zealand to spot a wild kiwi. Visit the South Island. The South Island is exquisite all year long, but there is a special sparkle along its alpine ranges in the winter. Queenstown comes to life in the colder seasons, as does the neighbouring lakeside town of Wanaka. Many Lord of the Rings film locations, such as Glenorchy and Aoraki/Mount Cook, will …15 reasons why the East Coast of the South Island NZ is worth visiting. Map of NZ South Island: East Coast highlights. 15 Must-do highlights on the East Coast of the South Island, New Zealand. Picton. Queen Charlotte Track. Blenheim. Ohau Point seal colony. Kaikoura. Cathedral Cliffs, Gore Bay.19-Mar-2022 ... We absolutely adore the South Island of New Zealand. There is such an abundance of natural beauty and jaw droppingly gorgeous locations so ...1. Auckland. When it comes to New Zealand cities, Auckland packs a punch, with two large harbours, an impressive skyline, and the Sky Tower offering high-rise …Best places in New Zealand to visit during Xmas and New Year: Auckland, Wellington, Gisborne, and Christchurch. Ideal Trip Duration And Package Cost For A New Zealand Vacation. The ideal duration of stay in New Zealand is 10 nights and 11 days. This will allow you a visit to the top tourist destinations of New Zealand, and get …3. Hobbiton. If you’re a Lord of the Rings fan, it’s likely you’ve come to New Zealand specifically to visit the Hobbiton Movie Set. Located in the rural town of Matamata, getting to Hobbiton from Auckland is a 2.5-hour drive. Hobbiton is, without a doubt, one of the best things to do on the North Island of New Zealand.New Zealand is a country known for its stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and vibrant culture. Whether you’re planning a trip to the North Island or the South Island, understan...39. Hike Mount Maunganui. Mount Maunganui is a beautiful place to visit. The Main Beach has been crowned the ‘Best Beach in New Zealand” and hiking the mountain, Mauao is a gorgeous hike that takes about 45 minutes. It’s one of the country’s most popular walks making it one of the top things to do in New Zealand.The Bay of Islands on the North Island is one of the best places to visit in New Zealand, as you can watch for dolphins, with the mild climate keeping them here all year round. You’ll most likely see bottlenose and common dolphins, along with the occasional orca whale. There are many tours that will take you out for close encounters, …Jun 26, 2018 · “New Zealand is a brilliant place for stargazing, because you actually see the aurora quite a lot in this part of the world,” Dr. Ian Griffin, an award-winning British astronomer and director ... Best places to visit for autumn colors in New Zealand 1. Mackenzie Country. The area running from Tekapo to Lake Pukaki and further on to Twizel and Omarama is a good region to visit for leaf peeping in New Zealand. In Tekapo there are several lakes that are dotted with yellow trees during autumn. …Mackenzie Country. Lake Tekapo is the most famous location for finding lupins in New Zealand. Find them in most areas of the lakefront in front of the Lake Tekapo township, such as at the Church of the Good Shepherd and near the hot pools and holiday park. There are also random stands alongside State Highway 8 between Twizel and Fairlie ... 6. Christchurch Botanic Gardens. 6,794. Parks. At the heart of Christchurch's reputation as the Garden City, the Gardens are a place of ever-changing beauty. Showcasing flora and fauna of New Zealand and other parts of the world, the Gardens feature one of the finest collections of exotic and local plants in New Zealand. 1. Te Anau Glowworm Caves. At only 12,000 years old, Te Anau Glowworm Caves are one of the youngest in New Zealand. Cruising through the Te Anau Glowworm Caves (check out on Viator, Tripadvisor or Klook) is a calm and peaceful visit, so take your mum to those glow worm caves for a smooth experience. Location: Te Anau, Southland, South Island ... 3. Enjoy a locally-brewed beer. After a day of sightseeing, one of the best things to do in Dunedin is to get cosy in one of the city's many pubs and enjoy a local beer. To go one step further, indulge in a tour and tasting at Emerson's craft brewery or the historic Speights Brewery. 4.The Tongariro Alpine Crossing is often described as New Zealand's best day walk. The 19km hike traverses ancient volcanic terrain, winding its way past emerald lakes, old lava flows and even an active crater. Views of Lake Taupo and the Ruapehu region are magnificent, and make the hike well worth the effort! 12.These top-10 places are ordered by location from the north to the south of New Zealand. Bay of Islands. The subtropical climate of Northland’s Bay of Islands, as well as the many sheltered coves, bays and inlets, make this place perfect to explore by paddleboard.Located towards the northern tip of the North Island and 3 hours' …Queenstown. Best Places to Stay. Located in the southern region of the South Island at the edge of Lake Wakatipu, Queenstown is renowned as New Zealand’s adventure capital, popular for world-class …En route to Queenstown. Break up the drive between Franz Josef and Queenstown with a stop in Wanaka. Located on the southern tip of Lake Wanaka, the lakeside town is a must-visit New Zealand South Island destination. On a time-crunched itinerary, you won’t have much time to explore outdoor-adventure-obsessed Wanaka.Early risers should head to New Brighton Beach to catch a magnificent glimpse of the sunrise on the first morning. New Zealand is the first country in the world to see the light of day. On the eastern coast of New Zealand there are some awesome spots to watch the sunrise on the first day of the New Year. Check them out.MID RANGE – Arrowtown Motel. MID RANGE – New Orleans Hotel. LUXURY – Millbrook Resort. CAMPERVAN SITE – Arrowtown Holiday Park. 14. Glenorchy. Glenorchy is a true slice of New Zealand paradise and one of the best places to visit in the South Island if you are looking for Lord of the Rings filming locations. There are many …Are you on the hunt for comfortable and stylish footwear? Look no further than Archies Footwear. Known for their innovative design and exceptional quality, Archies Footwear has bec...In this guide, we share the best ways to fly to New Zealand with points and miles. This is a comprehensive guide for North America. We may be compensated when you click on product ...Although certainly not uncontroversial, this is the modern country of New Zealand's founding document. There's lots to see here so dedicate at least half a day to exploring Te Whare Runanga, the Treaty House, the ceremonial waka, the artisan workshops and the forest and lawns at Waitangi. Continue to 3 of 15 below.Cathedral Cove, Coromandel. There are still off the beaten path places in Coromandel, though. If you love a 360° view from the top of a mountain, do like we did on New Year’s Day 2018 and climb to the summit of the Pinnacles Coromandel. The ascent is steep and rocky over old stairs. The view is well worth is, though.Caravanning is a popular way to explore the beautiful landscapes of New Zealand. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or just starting out, having the right caravan parts is essentia...Milford Sound. Photo: Niklas Ohlrogge | Unsplash. Finally, Milford Sound is one of the best places to visit in New Zealand in 2023. Located in Fiordland National Park, Milford Sound is a fjord created by a glacier. There are many ways to experience Milford Sound, but cruising through it on a tour boat is the most common.New Zealand is known for its stunning landscapes and vibrant culture, but it is also home to some of the most mouthwatering seafood dishes. One such dish that captures the essence ...Getting around New Zealand. Whether you want to self-drive, fly, join a tour, or hop on a bus or train, there are plenty of options for getting around New Zealand. Find out what’s best for you with our practical advice on travel and transport in New Zealand. Find more transport options >.This road trip can also be done from Queenstown to Christchurch by reversing it. Day 1 Christchurch to Lake Tekapo: Visit Rakaia Gorge and explore Lake Tekapo. Day 2 Lake Tekapo to Mount Cook: Visit Lake Pukaki, go on a short hike in Mt Cook. Day 3 Mount Cook: Explore Mount Cook National Park.Top 10 wildlife experiences in New Zealand. From swimming with dolphins and whale watching to encounters with kiwi birds and penguins, here are the best ways to see New Zealand wildlife up close. 1. Swim with dolphins. Swim with dolphins in Kaikōura, Christchurch - Canterbury. By Miles Holden. Kaikōura is undoubtedly the marine capital …Day or night, from up close to views across the water, this mountain takes on of our top spots for South Island experiences. 2. Visit New Zealand's only castle. Lanarch Castle, Dunedin. By Enterprise Dunedin. Built by William Larnach in 1871, the Larnach castle is the only one of its kind in New Zealand. The castle and its creator offer a ...Take a day trip Matamata, home to the famous Hobbiton™ Movie Set. Head down south on the freeway towards the Waikato region which is approximately 2 hours away from Auckland. On your way, make a stop at Hamilton Gardens to see beautifully landscaped gardens representing different civilisations and garden …3. Enjoy a locally-brewed beer. After a day of sightseeing, one of the best things to do in Dunedin is to get cosy in one of the city's many pubs and enjoy a local beer. To go one step further, indulge in a tour and tasting at Emerson's craft brewery or the historic Speights Brewery. 4.The highly active Rotorua and Taupo areas form a Volcanic Zone in the central North Island, offering an unforgettable experience. This large volcanic plateau ...The Arrowtown Autumn Festival, typically held in April, is a must-visit event where the town comes alive with parades, markets, and a vibrant atmosphere. 3. Wanaka. Wanaka, located in the South Island’s Otago region, is another fantastic destination to experience autumn in New Zealand. The town is situated on the shores of Lake Wanaka and ... With all of that out of the way, let’s get into the best places to see whales in New Zealand. 1. Kaikoura. Kaikoura is the only place on earth where you can see giant sperm whales on a tour. Plus, you can see them all year round. Not only can you view the whales by boat with Whale Watch Kaikoura (available to book on Viator, Tripadvisor and ... May 18, 2019 · The Mueller Hut is an alpine hut situated near the Mueller glacier high above the valley floor. The hut sits at an elevation of 1,800m and the hike there takes 5 hours one way. The hut has 36 beds for hikers and is one of the best places to spend the night in New Zealand. Mount Cook Trip Planning: Read on to learn about the best places in New Zealand for expats. Auckland: The Largest City in New Zealand. Expatriates love Auckland. Auckland is New Zealand’s biggest city, with 1.5 million people spread out over an area the size of Los Angeles. It’s New Zealand’s most diverse city and is considered the largest Polynesian city …New Zealand is known for its stunning landscapes and vibrant culture, but it is also home to some of the most mouthwatering seafood dishes. One such dish that captures the essence ...New Zealand climate and weather. New Zealand's North Island is home to island sanctuaries, bustling cities, amazing beaches and thrilling walks with breathtaking views. Check out places to visit in the North Island.With fluctuating petrol prices being a topic of concern for many New Zealanders, it’s important to understand the factors that contribute to these changes. From global oil demand t...Best places in New Zealand to visit during Xmas and New Year: Auckland, Wellington, Gisborne, and Christchurch. Ideal Trip Duration And Package Cost For A New Zealand Vacation. The ideal duration of stay in New Zealand is 10 nights and 11 days. This will allow you a visit to the top tourist destinations of New Zealand, and get …1. Queenstown. The sunsets in summer as the best! Queenstown! I may be biased because I live here, but I think Queenstown is the most beautiful place in all of …Here's how to see New Zealand like a Kiwi. By. Amy Louise Bailey. Amy Louise Bailey. ... 15 Best Places to Visit in Virginia, According to Locals. 24 Most Beautiful Places in Mexico .Queenstown, New Zealand chemc/iStock. There are a number of places on New Zealand’s South Island that have proven again and again to be hotbeds for spotting southern lights, such as the city of ...The third island in New Zealand’s main chain, Stewart Island is remote, beautiful, and often overlooked by visitors. Stewart Island is home to one of New Zealand’s Great Walks the Rakiura Track and is one of the best places to view kiwi in the wild. It is also known for its spectacular night skies, having received International Dark Sky Sanctuary status by the …Have you ever received a call from an unknown number and wondered who it was? Or perhaps you need to find the contact details of a long-lost friend or relative? In today’s digital ...In New Zealand's largest city, Auckland, the zoo maintains a display called "The Night." This features several of New Zealand's lesser known nocturnal creatures as well as the North Island's endangered brown kiwi. The zoo was one of the first places in the country to see the bird in captivity, with the first put in place …15 reasons why the East Coast of the South Island NZ is worth visiting. Map of NZ South Island: East Coast highlights. 15 Must-do highlights on the East Coast of the South Island, New Zealand. Picton. Queen Charlotte Track. Blenheim. Ohau Point seal colony. Kaikoura. Cathedral Cliffs, Gore Bay.While travelling New Zealand, here are 10 places you can see these small nocturnal birds up close. 1. The National Kiwi Hatchery. The National Kiwi Hatchery at Rainbow Springs plays a hugely important role in kiwi conservation, incubating and hatching over 130 kiwi chicks each year. Their work is crucial to the survival of kiwi, as only 5% of ...Muriwai is a stunning black sand beach that looks incredibly dramatic in photos. Why it’s so awesome: If you like animals, then you need to make a trip to this area. Located on the west coast of New Zealand, just an hour from Auckland, this bird colony makes the ideal day trip from the city.3. Nelson, South Island. Nelson, a coastal city on the northeastern tip of the South Island, is famous for its laid-back vibe, beautiful sunshine, and long golden beaches. It is one of the best towns to visit in New Zealand if you are looking for a nice, relaxing time away from all the other tourist hotspots. Must-do experiences. See New Zealand's greatest attractions, from the tip of Cape Reinga to the starry skies of Stewart Island/Rakiura. Ultimate New Zealand bucket list. 11 must-do North Island experiences. 11 must do experiences in the South Island. Must-do Free Experiences in New Zealand. People in New Zealand wear a variety of clothing types, including traditional Maori clothing and casual Western wear. The style of clothing often depends on the season. New Zealand... State Highway 94 / Milford Road. Stop off at one of the car parking areas along the Milford Hwy and you have a relatively high chance of seeing Kea. Or look out the window while driving along (as a passenger only!). The Homer Tunnel Parking Area is a good spot. Stop at the Gertrude Valley Lookout and you could be rewarded with a Kea sighting. MID RANGE – Arrowtown Motel. MID RANGE – New Orleans Hotel. LUXURY – Millbrook Resort. CAMPERVAN SITE – Arrowtown Holiday Park. 14. Glenorchy. Glenorchy is a true slice of New Zealand paradise and one of the best places to visit in the South Island if you are looking for Lord of the Rings filming locations. There are many …Things to Do in New Zealand, South Pacific: See Tripadvisor's 3,435,103 traveller reviews and photos of New Zealand tourist attractions. Find what to do today, this weekend or in March. We have reviews of the best places to see in New Zealand. Visit top-rated & must-see attractions.Napier-Hastings. Loic Lagarde / Getty Images. The twin cities of Napier and Hastings (population 130,000) are located in the Hawke's Bay, on the eastern coast of the North Island. The Hawke's Bay is one of New Zealand's premier wine-producing regions, so there are plenty of opportunities for eating and drinking well.Caravanning is a popular way to explore the beautiful landscapes of New Zealand. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or just starting out, having the right caravan parts is essentia...If you’re planning to buy shoes in New Zealand but are unsure about the sizing, understanding the shoe size conversion chart is essential. In this article, we will guide you throug...Dark, clear skies, unique celestial features and otherworldly landscapes make stargazing in New Zealand a breathtakingly magical experience. Here, the heavens appear closer to Earth. Compared to many countries, New Zealand has relatively little light pollution. It is also home to some of the most accessible night-sky observatories in the world. 1. Te Anau Glowworm Caves. At only 12,000 years old, Te Anau Glowworm Caves are one of the youngest in New Zealand. Cruising through the Te Anau Glowworm Caves (check out on Viator, Tripadvisor or Klook) is a calm and peaceful visit, so take your mum to those glow worm caves for a smooth experience. Location: Te Anau, Southland, South Island ... 2. Rotorua. Rotorua is a geothermal wonderland and one of the must-see places to visit in New Zealand. Located roughly in the middle of the North Island, Rotorua sits within a volcanic caldera, with hot springs and geysers galore. Rotorua is also the cultural heart of New Zealand with a strong Māori influence.To get you started, here are the top 10 things to do when you visit. ... The Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa dominates the beautiful Wellington Waterfront ...If you’re planning to buy shoes in New Zealand but are unsure about the sizing, understanding the shoe size conversion chart is essential. In this article, we will guide you throug...Are you a job seeker in New Zealand? Are you feeling overwhelmed by the competitive job market? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. In this article, we will discuss some top strate...29. Go Off-Roading in Greymouth. Hit the off-roading trails of bush, bog and pastures on one of New Zealand’s off-roading experiences. On Yer Bike in Greymouth is an epic self-drive option with 4×4 buggies with passenger seats for kids, as well as Hagglund rides for the youngest members of the family.En route to Queenstown. Break up the drive between Franz Josef and Queenstown with a stop in Wanaka. Located on the southern tip of Lake Wanaka, the lakeside town is a must-visit New Zealand South Island destination. On a time-crunched itinerary, you won’t have much time to explore outdoor-adventure-obsessed Wanaka.1. Auckland. When it comes to New Zealand cities, Auckland packs a punch, with two large harbours, an impressive skyline, and the Sky Tower offering high-rise …
6. Christchurch Botanic Gardens. 6,801. Parks. At the heart of Christchurch's reputation as the Garden City, the Gardens are a place of ever-changing beauty. Showcasing flora and fauna of New Zealand and other parts of the world, the Gardens feature one of the finest collections of exotic and local plants in New Zealand.. Pod moving rates
6. Christchurch Botanic Gardens. 6,800. Parks. At the heart of Christchurch's reputation as the Garden City, the Gardens are a place of ever-changing beauty. Showcasing flora and fauna of New Zealand and other parts of the world, the Gardens feature one of the finest collections of exotic and local plants in New Zealand. Napier. Cape Palliser. #1. Bay of Islands, New Zealand. Place to Visit in Bay of Islands, New Zealand. Bay of Islands encompasses 144 islands. Embark on an excursion along the Twin Coast Discovery Highway to the symbolic Bay of Islands. It is a paradise for those in love with beaches and water activities. … With all of that out of the way, let’s get into the best places to see whales in New Zealand. 1. Kaikoura. Kaikoura is the only place on earth where you can see giant sperm whales on a tour. Plus, you can see them all year round. Not only can you view the whales by boat with Whale Watch Kaikoura (available to book on Viator, Tripadvisor and ... Southern Alps. The main feature of scenery in the South Island is mountains. The Southern Alps mountain range is the backbone of the island, stretching for roughly 500 kilometres from Wanaka to Arthur's Pass. The Alps have snowy tops all year round, feeding glaciers and crystal clear rivers. As well as diving the island visually, the Southern ...The Waitomo Caves, three hours’ drive from Auckland, offer one of the best glow worm experiences in the country. Take a boat ride underground to experience the magic of thousands of these tiny creatures lighting up the cave roof above you like a star-studded sky. Glow worms can be found throughout the country, and are often spotted in damp ...December through March are the best months to see orcas (killer whales). Killer Whales Breaching the Water [Image Credit: Pixabay] 7. Hike on a Glacier in Franz Josef. Franz Josef is a small town built around its central attraction, the Franz Josef Glacier. This is one of the most accessible glaciers in the world.Best times to visit Essential information Essential ... Explore Aotearoa New Zealand's off-the-beaten-track destinations or hop between the North and South Islands to visit all the regions. You'll never run out of breathtaking places to see. Top places to visit. From mountains to sand dunes, turquoise seas to glacial lakes, New Zealand's ...One of the best places to visit in New Zealand in winter is the incredible city of Auckland. The city has a relatively mild winter, with temperatures ranging between 10 to 15 degrees Celsius (or 50-59 …3. The Catlins. The Catlins is at the very south of the South Island. A combination of a clear night and heading away from any other polluting light could well give you a spectacular view of the green and pink hue in the sky. Stargaze from one of the awesome camping grounds and freedom camping areas in the Catlins.6. Nevis Valley. Nevis Valley is one of the best Queenstown tourist places for adventure seekers. You can indulge in trail biking, bungee jumping, horse trekking, four-wheel driving, and explore Maori historical sites. There are many places to explore where you can unveil many hidden treasures of a different era.Muriwai is a stunning black sand beach that looks incredibly dramatic in photos. Why it’s so awesome: If you like animals, then you need to make a trip to this area. Located on the west coast of New Zealand, just an hour from Auckland, this bird colony makes the ideal day trip from the city.About New Zealand. Forever remembered for its "The Lord of the Rings" legacy, New Zealand’s landscapes are deserving of their big screen fame—think lush rolling hills, volcano-sculpted moonscapes, UNESCO-listed glaciers, and white-sand beaches. Cities like Auckland, Wellington, and Queenstown follow suit, with photo …Queenstown, New Zealand chemc/iStock. There are a number of places on New Zealand’s South Island that have proven again and again to be hotbeds for spotting southern lights, such as the city of ...Paihia. If you want to discover the coves and beaches of the Bay of Islands, Paihia is the perfect place to start. Cruises of all types leave from the wharf daily. From jaw-dropping mountains and crystal clear waters to Māori culture and geothermal valleys, these are the best places to visit the wonders that make New Zealand so popular. Read more.The Great Walks are very popular with locals and tourists, so it's essential to book a spot in the huts—where you'll rest along the way—in advance. The 10 Great Walks are: Lake Waikaremoana, East Coast, North Island, 3–4 days. Tongariro Northern Circuit, Central North Island, 3–4 days.Tongariro National Park is New Zealand's oldest national park and also a dual World Heritage site. Here you'll find three of the country's most famous volcanoes .....The best time to see the penguins in Oamaru is between September and February, when you may see up to 200 birds. Oamaru is a convenient place to stop when driving between Christchurch and Dunedin. It's about 3.5 hours south of Christchurch by car and 1.5 hours north of Dunedin. 07 of 07.Dark, clear skies, unique celestial features and otherworldly landscapes make stargazing in New Zealand a breathtakingly magical experience. Here, the heavens appear closer to Earth. Compared to many countries, New Zealand has relatively little light pollution. It is also home to some of the most accessible night-sky observatories in the world.Ohakune is the main town in the area with an apres-ski vibe, such as celebrating the start of the ski season with the Mardi Gras Festival. When the lifts close, head to The Junction part of town! 4. Arthur’s Pass. Drive or take the TranzAlpine through the winter wonderland of Arthur’s Pass.When they’re on land, these birds tend to be nocturnal, so they’ll be asleep during the day. 1. Timaru: Caroline Bay. Timaru is one of the best places in New Zealand to spot penguins. The city is situated along Caroline Bay which is home to a permanent population of little blue penguins.1. The Kaikoura Peninsula. Kaikoura is famous in New Zealand for attracting a wealth of wildlife from dolphins to whales. Part of that group is the New Zealand fur seals, which have numerous colonies around the Kaikoura Peninsula. A great way to see these colonies is along the Kaikoura Peninsula Walkway..