Tourism is doing well in New Zealand. In fact, over 3.3 million people traveled to the country in 2023.
For many, a trip to New Zealand is all about visiting areas like Milford Sound, Hobbiton, and Queenstown. These are popular for good reason, but for those who prefer to avoid touristic hotspots and wish to head to the lesser-known spots, there are several places worth your time and travel budget.
Visit New Zealand Hidden Gems
Uncover the Quieter Side of New Zealand
If you’re looking to explore places that are an escape from the developed world, consider paying a visit to the following spots:
1. Ōpārara Basin, Kahurangi National Park
If you’re into places that make you feel like you’ve stepped into another era or a fantasy novel, the Ōpārara Basin might be your spot. Tucked into the upper corner of the South Island, it’s got massive limestone arches (like the epic Moria Gate), caves full of fossils, and enough mossy rainforest to make your inner explorer happy.
What to Do in the Ōpārara Basin
The walking tracks are short and easy enough for most people, and guided tours are available if you want the full cave deep-dive. It’s a great option if you like your adventures a little offbeat but still doable without full hiking gear.
When to Visit Ōpārara Basin
December to March is usually the driest and easiest time to get around, but the area is open year-round if you don’t mind a bit of mud.
Why the Ōpārara Basin is Special
It’s one of those places that still feels untouched. It’s quiet, a bit eerie (in a good way), and totally off the tourist radar. No crowds, just cave echoes and bird calls.
2. Stewart Island, Rakiura National Park
Situated south of the South Island, Stewart Island is a sanctuary for nature lovers. Approximately 85% of the island is designated as Rakiura National Park, providing a haven for native wildlife, including the elusive kiwi. It’s one of the rare places where you can observe kiwis in their natural habitat during daylight hours.
What to Do on Stewart Island
You can explore the numerous walking tracks ranging from short walks to multi-day hikes like the Rakiura Track. Birdwatching is exceptional here, with opportunities to see species rarely found elsewhere. Some of these include:
- Southern Brown Kiwi / Tokoeka. Stewart Island is one of the only places where you can see this nocturnal bird in the wild during the daytime. It’s one of the largest kiwi species and lives throughout the island.
- Yellow-eyed Penguin / Hoiho. One of the rarest penguin species in the world, known for its pale-yellow eyes and solitary behavior.
- New Zealand Kākā. A large forest parrot that’s playful, noisy, and curious. Stewart Island has a thriving population.
- Stewart Island Robin / Toutouwai. A curious little songbird that often hops right up to walkers on the trails.
- Fernbird / Mātātā. A shy and secretive bird often found in wetlands and scrub, with a distinctive, buzzy call.
When to Visit Stewart Island
Summer months (December to February) offer milder weather, but the island’s beauty is evident year-round.
Why Stewart Island Is Special
Stewart Island provides an off-the-grid experience, immersing visitors in pristine wilderness and offering a glimpse into New Zealand’s untouched natural heritage.
3. New Chums Beach, Coromandel Peninsula
Accessible only by foot or boat, New Chums Beach is a secluded paradise on the northeast coast of the Coromandel Peninsula. This unspoiled stretch of golden sand, framed by native forest, remains free from development, offering a tranquil retreat. New Chums Beach has been recognized among the world’s top beaches, celebrated for its untouched beauty.
What to Do on New Chums Beach
Enjoy a peaceful picnic, swim in the clear waters, or simply relax on the beach. The 30-minute walk to reach the beach adds to the sense of seclusion.
When to Visit New Chums Beach
Visit during low tide for easier access along the coastal track. Summer months provide ideal beach conditions.
Why New Chums Beach Is Special
The Coromandel’s official tourism website mentions that New Chum Beach is one of the world’s top 10 beaches. It’s best known for its untouched golden sands and native forest surroundings.
4. Ruakuri Cave, Waitomo
Most people, when they hear about Waitomo, immediately think of the renowned Waitomo Glowworm Caves. But not many know about nearby Ruakuri Cave. You can expect smaller crowds, but the experience is just as impressive. The caves offer underground rivers, limestone formations, and a brilliant collection of glowworms.
What to Do at Ruakuri Cave
Take a guided tour through the cave’s well-lit pathways, see the stalactites and stalagmites, and witness the glowworm displays.
When to Visit Ruakuri Cave
The cave is open year-round, providing a cool retreat during the warmer months.
Why Ruakuri Cave Is Special
Ruakuri Cave is naturally beautiful and a cultural experience, too. It offers insight into the history and legends of Māori associated with the cave.
5. Glenorchy, Otago Region
Glenorchy sits at the top of Lake Wakatipu and feels like the kind of place you stumble across in a movie, probably because a bunch of movies actually were filmed here. The area is small, relaxed, and surrounded by mountains that look almost too perfect to be real.
What to Do in Glenorchy
You’ve got options. Walk the Glenorchy Lagoon Walkway for those laid-back postcard views, jump on the Routeburn Track if you’re into proper hiking, or saddle up for horseback riding across open valleys and forest trails.
When to Visit Glenorchy
Autumn (September to November) and spring (March to May) are ideal. They’re not too hot, not too crowded, and the scenery is still top-notch.
Why Glenorchy Is Special
This place is peaceful, yet it won’t bore you. You’re surrounded by nature, the kind that makes you want to stay off your phone and just take it all in. And if you’re a film buff, you might recognize it from The Lord of the Rings and The Chronicles of Narnia. They didn’t pick this setting by accident.
Plan Your Trip to New Zealand Ahead of Time
When traveling to such remote places, it’s best to be fully prepared. Some tips for your trip include:
- Get an eSIM plan for New Zealand to keep you connected to your maps, and socials, and in touch with loved ones back home.
- Pack sufficient water if you’re hiking or exploring for hours, as shops and supplies are few and far between.
- Ensure that you pack sufficient water for the duration of your adventures and explorations.
- Let someone know where you’ll be exploring, just for the sake of safety.
Ready to visit New Zealand Hidden Gems?
If you’re willing to wander off the beaten track, you’ll find that New Zealand has a lot more to offer than the commercialized tourist spots. Each destination featured above provides the opportunity to experience something unique about New Zealand. Pick one or two to add to your itinerary, or be daring and visit them all!
About the Author
I’m Mirela Letailleur, a travel blogger based in the South of France who’s made a name for sniffing out hidden gems across Europe and now I’ve got my sights set on New Zealand. While I haven’t been (yet), I’ve spent months mapping out the places most travelers skip. Think of this as the shortlist I’d follow if I were booking a flight tomorrow. I write no-fluff travel guides to help slow travelers and culture lovers find the good stuff before it ends up in the brochures. You can also find me on Pinterest, on Rexby, and on my blog The Travel Bunny.
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