Places to visit in New Zealand: 10 stunning spots you need to visit this summer!

It’s easy to forget what’s in your own backyard, especially now that the summer holidays are done and everyone has halfheartedly gone back to their everyday routines! There’s too much summer sun left to give up just yet, so we’ve teamed up with Somersby Premium European Cider to bring you 10 places to visit in New Zealand. These incredible spots MUST be on everyone’s summer adventure list.

1. Castlepoint, Wairarapa

Castlepoint is a great place to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life for a day of swimming and surfing. An hour from Masterton, the reserve comes complete with a lagoon, reef, birds and marine mammals and an awesome lighthouse!

2. Abel Tasman National Park

If you’re feeling adventurous then hit up the Abel Tasman Coast track, it takes three to five days to explore in full but there’s some incredible scenery. If you’re not that adventurous then just head down for the day to do some kayaking or snorkeling.

3. Cathedral Cove, Coromandel

Accessible only by foot or water famous Cathedral Cove is one of the must visit sites on The Coromandel. If you’re up for an adventure, there are several scenic walking tracks on land adjacent to the reserve, including the 2hr return track, which gives access to Gemstone Bay, Mares Leg, and Cathedral Cove. If you’re after the ultimate summer beach pic, you can’t get much better than this.

4. Whale Bay, Northland

If you’re looking for a white sand paradise right in our backyard, then make your way up to Whale Bay and soak in the gorgeous views. The only way to reach this little paradise is by foot – a 30 minute round trip or 40 minutes from Matapouri Bay. This spot is perfect for snorkeling and picnics so pack a bag.

5. Piha Beach, Auckland

Only 45 minutes from Auckland City, the rugged west coast beaches come equipped with beautiful waterfalls, black sand, and stunning sunsets. Climb to the top of Lion Rock for a view of the whole beach and to the top of the Kitekite falls to stand on the edge of the Waitakere Ranges.

6. Crucible Lake, Mount Aspiring

If you’re an experienced tramper – and near or heading to Wanaka - you have to check out Crucible Lake. It’s about a three-day hike (to the top) but once you arrive, you’ll be blown away by the unbelievable scenery. And why not make the most of the adventures we have right here in NZ?

7. Matheson Lake, Franz Josef

Lake Matheson is just 6km west of Fox Glacier on the West Coast and is simply breathtaking. It’s New Zealand’s most photographed lake, and for good reason! On a good day, the lake creates a beautiful reflection of the surrounding mountains (Mount Aoraki and Tasman) on the surface of the water. You won’t want to look away from this gorgeous vista.

8. Hokitika Gorge

The Hokitika Gorge isn't too far from Hokitika, this hidden gem of the South Island looks too good to be true with turquoise waters and stunning native bush surrounding it but trust us, it looks even more incredible in person. It’s an easy excursion – just a short walk through a stunning forest to a viewing platform where the water has to be seen to be believed.

9. Tongariro National Park

The Tongariro Crossing is one of the best day walks in New Zealand, it takes less than a day and the views are simply phenomenal - once you get over the fact that you just climbed up the so-called ‘devil’s staircase’. Think lava flows, an active crater, and magnificent views.

10. Glow Worm Caves, Waitomo

We saved the best for last on this list with the Waitomo Caves. This is a truly magical place, only a few hours from Auckland, where you can relax, float down the river, and look up and some awesome glowworms lighting the way. It’s incredible that all of these gems are right here in our own country. So why not experience some of these for yourself? Grab some mates, book a bach and enjoy our great country!

This post was made possible thanks to Somersby Premium European Cider, the perfect drink to enjoy in the sun with your friends. We have an adventure starting $100 Prezzy Card to give away to one lucky person! To be in the draw, head over to the Remix Facebook page and tell us on the competition post which spot you’d most like to visit.  

Images: buzzfeed.com, travelphotoadventures.com, thousandwonders.net