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Best Food In New Zealand - Delicious Traditional Food In New Zealand By Traditional Dishes

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Merino sheep are prized for their wool.

OFFICIAL NAME: New Zealand/Aotearoa (Maori)

FORM OF GOVERNMENT: Parliamentary democracy

CAPITAL: Wellington

POPULATION: 4,545,627

OFFICIAL LANGUAGES: English/Maori

MONEY: New Zealand dollar

AREA: 103,883 square miles (269,055 square kilometers)

MAJOR MOUNTAIN RANGES: Southern Alps, Kaikoura Ranges

MAJOR RIVERS: Waikato, Clurtha, Rangitaiki, Wanganui, Manawatu, Buller, Rakaia, Waitaki, Waiau

New Zealand's two main islands, North and South Islands, are separated by the Cook Strait. Australia, its nearest neighbor, is 1,000 miles (1,600 kilometers) away.

The islands were created just 23 million years ago when land was thrust out of the ocean by volcanic forces. New Zealand has more than 50 volcanoes, some of which are still active today. Sharp snowy peaks, rocky shores, and pastures create a majestic landscape.

The South Island is home to the highest mountain peak in New Zealand, Mount Cook, which rises to 12,316 feet (3,754 meters) and is called "Cloud Piercer" by the Maori people.
Map created by National Geographic Maps

PEOPLE & CULTURE

New Zealanders, or "Kiwis" as they are called, have been shaped by their isolation. Today, most Kiwis are no longer farmers, with 86 percent of the population living in cities. More people live in the city of Auckland on North Island, than the whole population of South Island.

The Maori named the country, Aotearoa, "The Land of the Long White Cloud." The Maori culture is widely respected by New Zealanders and many parcels of land under dispute were returned to the Maori in 1998.

Rugby is the favorite sport and nearly everyone cheers on the national team, the All Blacks. Many Kiwis also enjoy cricket.

Because of its remote location, New Zealand is rich in unusual wildlife not seen anywhere else in the world. Nearly all the land animals are birds and many of these species have lost the ability to fly. The Maori people and European settlers introduced animals to the islands and the flightless birds had no defense against them.

In the last 1,000 years, half of all animals on the islands have become extinct. Deforestation and draining of swamp land is also threatening many remaining species, including the kiwi bird. Fewer than 75,000 wild kiwis remain. Several species are recovering, including the kakapo, kokako, kiwi, and tuatara.

Bats are the only land mammals to have made the ocean crossing. Birds and insects, such as the weta, evolved to fill the gap of mammals on the islands. The giant weta, at 2.5 ounces (70 grams), weighs three times more than a mouse. It is a relative of crickets and is considered one of the world's heaviest insects.

Pilot and humpback whales visit the islands on their way to breed, and orcas come to feed on dolphins.

GOVERNMENT & ECONOMY

New Zealand's government is based on the parliamentary democracy based on the system used in Britain. There are 122 seats in the House of Representatives and each is elected for a three-year term. Seven seats are reserved for the Maori and they are chosen by Maori voters.

There are two main parties, National and Labour. The party with the most elected representatives forms the government. The leader of the party is the Prime Minister.

Tourism is the main industry in New Zealand with over two million visitors a year. The main exports are lamb, butter, kiwifruit, and wine.

The Maori people arrived by canoe from islands in Polynesia near Tahiti around 1,000 A.D. In the 1600s, the Dutch explorer Abel Tasman visited the islands, but his party left after being attacked. New Zealand was named Nieuw Zeeland after a region in the Netherlands.

In 1769, Captain James Cook came to the islands. The British established settlements and signed a treaty with the Maori in 1840. The Maori protested the treaty after their lands were seized, and in the 1860s, they began a 12-year war against the British for control of North Island. Peace was restored to the islands in the 1870s.

In 1893, New Zealand became the first country to give women the right to vote. The country became a dominion of Britain in 1907 and gained its independence from Britain in 1947.

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New Zealand is a remote, mountainous group of islands located off the southeast coast of Australia.

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Auckland's most scenic attractions include Hunua Falls in the Hunua Ranges | © Nazar Abbas Photography / Getty Images

Whilst Auckland might be New Zealand’s largest city, it is surrounded by an embarrassment of natural beauty. Pack a bag, hop in the car or hire your very own mobile home and venture beyond the bustling urban centre to find a collection of picture-perfect landscapes and coastlines. To immerse yourself in Auckland’s natural wonders, check out these 18 must-visit spots.

Auckland’s Hauraki Gulf offers a trove of scenic islands to visit. Catch the ferry from downtown Auckland to start exploring these destinations.

Waiheke Island

Natural Feature

D9G0GX Sailing boats on Waiheke Island, Auckland, North Island, New Zealand | © robertharding / Alamy

An island renowned for its vineyards, beaches, forested plains and compelling walking trails, Waiheke isn’t known as Waiheke Island Paradise for nothing. There aren’t many places in the world where you can be swim in crystal-clear waters all morning and then head out to tour world-class vineyards in the afternoon. Plus, it’s just a 45-minute ferry ride from Auckland – aren’t those supercity dwellers lucky?

Great Barrier Island

Natural Feature

© paul kennedy / Alamy Stock Photo

Untapped beauty at its finest and only a short ferry trip away, Great Barrier Island feels delightfully off-grid. The island is truly a slice of paradise that has remained untouched by the modern world for the most part. The free-range lifestyle here is part of the appeal: accommodations are low-key, the beaches are idyllic and the use of technology is actively discouraged.

Rotoroa Island

Natural Feature

© Ian Dagnall / Alamy Stock Photo

An underrated but beautiful heritage site, Rotoroa Island is a must-visit for all passing tourists. Once as an alcohol and drug rehabilitation facility run by the Salvation Army, the island has since been turned into a conservation park, acting as a haven for native plants and animals. Now owned by the city of Auckland, the island can be easily accessed by ferry.

The Auckland region is not short of well-preserved parks and reserves. Whether you are keen to discover native plant life or want to spend the day perusing Auckland’s best hiking trails, all of these natural wonders are worth visiting. You can stay overnight if you manage to find accommodation – or pick the perfect spot and bed down in your own hired RV.

Auckland Domain

Park

Auckland Domain Wintergardens in New Zealand | © Pavel Dudek / Alamy

This remarkable inner-city park offers plenty of picturesque landscapes and cultural attractions. The Auckland Museum sits at one end and there are a number of other natural attractions within its limits, including the blooming cherry trees in spring. It’s just a short stroll from downtown Auckland, so you can be immersed in this verdant wonderland in no time.

Auckland Botanic Gardens

Botanical Garden

DPHG4W The African Garden at Auckland Botanic Gardens, New Zealand. | © travellinglight / Alamy

Discover a magnificent variety of plants and flowers from New Zealand and abroad at these 64ha (158 acres) of botanic gardens. Found in Manurewa in South Auckland, this sprawling green space is home to more than 10,000 plants spread across themed sections. Wander through a palm garden, admire vibrant flowers in the African Plants Garden, or stroll through a shady native forest at this tranquil retreat from the city.

Wenderholm Regional Park

Park

© John Kershaw / Alamy Stock Photo

A blend of beaches and forested plains make Wenderholm Regional Park a captivating sight. Tidal estuaries snake through a series of densely planted outcrops, giving this spot an otherworldly feel. It’s just a 45-minute drive from central Auckland, making it the perfect day trip whether you’re in the mood for a beach day or a beautiful walk.

Waitakere Ranges

Natural Feature

© Travelscape Images / Alamy Stock Photo

With 16,000ha (40,000 acres) of native bush and coastlines, it’s no wonder the Waitakere Ranges are considered a local treasure. Popular with ardent hikers, they are home to awe-inspiring waterfalls and lakes, and the views from the top are spectacular. Plus, the Department of Conservation cabins dotted around make overnight hikes a breeze.

Hunua Ranges

Natural Feature

© Lubos Paukeje / Alamy Stock Photo

Waterfalls, hiking trails and breathtaking scenery draw people to this idyllic destination. The Wairoa river runs through the heart of the ranges, well known for their eponymous waterfall, and the area is home to some of the major water reservoirs for Auckland. It’s the largest forest in the Auckland region, with a cornucopia of options for adventures.

Shakespear Regional Park

Park

© Doug Houghton / Alamy Stock Photo

Beaches, farmland and picture-perfect landscapes make this area a popular spot for locals and tourists. Drawn by the jaw-dropping views over the Hauraki Gulf to Rangitoto Island, visitors flock to the area to explore its trails and swim at the beaches. The park’s infamous picture frame offers up ample Instagram opportunities too.

Auckland’s 48 dormant volcanoes provide plenty in the way of natural beauty, particularly the three main summits that overlook the region. To get to the top, you’ll need to put your best foot first – but there are numerous beauty spots lower down that vehicles – whether your own or a hired RV – can reach.

Mount Eden

Natural Feature

© superjoseph / Getty Images

Along with a full view of Auckland, Mount Eden’s crater is guaranteed to humble you with its greatness. Found in the heart of Auckland city in the eponymous suburb, the volcano makes for both a great climb and incredible views. Conquer it in the morning and then reward yourself with breakfast at one of the neighbourhood’s best cafes – we recommend Whau, a cafe that incorporates traditional Māori produce into its menu.

One Tree Hill

Natural Feature

EJPHME One Tree Hill (Maungakiekie), Auckland, New Zealand | © MJ Photography / Alamy

Farmland and a well-preserved park surround this historic location in Central Auckland. The mountain is distinguished by the obelisk at its summit that acts as a memorial for Māori. After taking in the views from the top, head to Cornwall Park cafe for a coffee refuel.

Rangitoto Island

Natural Feature

© Hemis / Alamy Stock Photo

Head to the island’s namesake summit, trek to the top and reward yourself with a collection of remarkable vistas. Arguably the most iconic image in Auckland, Rangitoto is visible from almost every coastal vantage point, memorialised in countless pictures and videos of the city. It would be remiss not to ascend its bushy heights, even if just to tick it off your list, and you won’t be disappointed by the view from the top, offering a perspective on the city that you won’t find elsewhere.

So many coastal treasures, so little time. Take a quick dip at some of the best beaches and bays in the vicinity – and if you want to prolong your hiatus from the city then why not do it in a state-of-the-art mobile home? Take your pick from the top RVs to hire in and around Auckland.

Devonport

Natural Feature

© Natalia Lashmanova / Alamy Stock Photo

Just a short drive over the Auckland Harbour Bridge, or a 10-minute ferry from downtown, Devonport can sometimes feel like its own little corner of the world. Enormous green hills lead down to the sea, where on any given day you can find a number of local kids doing bombs off the end of the piers. Devonport might just be a hop, a skip and a jump from the city, but the vibe is that of an island: a laid-back spot with a tight-knit local community.

The North Shore

Natural Feature

© Jon Sparks / Alamy Stock Photo

Takapuna, Long Bay, Torbay, Cheltenham Beach – the North Shore has more than its fair share of incredible coastal treasures. Along with long swaithes of sand and surfing spots, the North Shore is also home to some of the city’s best cafes and restaurants, such as Takapuna Beach Cafe (don’t leave without trying their gelato) and Devon on the Wharf.

The West Coast

Natural Feature

HYMJB1 Piha Beach, on Auckland's West Coast, and Lion Rock. | © travellinglight / Alamy

Sandy beaches, rugged plains and nippy waters compel visitors to explore Auckland’s West Coast. Home to black-sand beaches, this bracing coastline exemplifies mother nature in all her destructive power, and the dramatic landscape has been immortalised in films both locally and internationally. It’s also home to some of the city’s best surf, but be sure to check the lifeguard flags before you pop in for a dip – this is some of New Zealand’s wildest ocean.

Goat Island

Natural Feature

© David Wall / Alamy Stock Photo

Goat Island is a marine reserve just north of Auckland that snorkelling and scuba-diving enthusiasts will relish. It’s home to innumerable fish, making it a great spot for fishing and you should bring your goggles so you can swim with your finned friends. Those keener on staying dry can head out on a glass-bottom boat or kayak to spy on the fish from the safety of their vessel.

Matakana

Architectural Landmark

© Ramunas Bruzas / Alamy Stock Photo

Beautiful coastlines, a lovely surrounding village and wineries aplenty – there’s a bit of everything in Matakana. Located inland from the white sand and turquoise water of Omaha Beach, this spot gives you access to not just the ocean, but also vineyards and orchards to explore. The village itself has a number of great restaurants, a new craft brewery spot with plenty of beers on tap, and a Saturday-morning farmers’ market, which is one of the best in the country.

The Awhitu Peninsula

Park

© Mark Meredith / Getty Images

Magnificent wetlands and wildlife surround this peaceful peninsula on the Manukau Harbour. Sitting on the Waikato border, this is about as far from downtown Auckland as you can get on the mainland while still being in the confines of the city, and the pace of life shows it. Be sure to head to Manukau Heads Lighthouse while you’re there – it’s one of only a handful open to the public.

This is an updated version of an article originally written by Thalita Alves

These recommendations were updated on May 25, 2021 to keep your travel plans fresh.

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The Most Beautiful Places to See in Auckland, New Zealand

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From rugged cliffs and sandy beaches to islands, waterfalls and reserves, discover some of Auckland, New Zealand's most scenic attractions.