10 Best Natural Wonders in New Zealand (plus 3 bonus attractions)

New Zealand is basically Mother Nature showing off. Volcanoes, glaciers, glowworms, fiords, and beaches, it’s no wonder our little islands feature on so many travellers’ bucket lists. But here’s the thing: it’s not just about ticking off the “Instagram-famous” spots. The real magic lies in the little local tips, like where to stand for the best photo, when to visit to avoid the crowds, or which bakery to grab a pie from afterwards (a vital part of any Kiwi road trip).

The team at RaD Car Hire have branches from Queenstown to Auckland, Te Anau to Nelson, and we asked them for their insider wisdom. Here’s our guide to the 10 best natural wonders in New Zealand, with local insights to help you experience them like a pro.

1. Milford Sound – The Eighth Wonder of the World

Milford Sound, in the heart of Fiordland National Park, is the superstar of South Island scenery. Towering cliffs, waterfalls that tumble hundreds of metres, and wildlife like dolphins and seals make it unforgettable. Rudyard Kipling famously called it the “eighth wonder of the world.”

Local insight (Te Anau branch): “Most people do a day trip from Queenstown, but staying overnight in Te Anau makes the journey far more relaxed. Plus, you’ll be able to join early morning cruises before the big buses arrive.”

2. Tongariro National Park – Volcanic Majesty

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Tongariro National Park is home to three active volcanoes: Mount Ruapehu, Mount Ngauruhoe (aka Mount Doom from The Lord of the Rings), and Mount Tongariro. The Tongariro Alpine Crossing is often ranked among the world’s best day hikes.

💡 Local insight (Taupō branch): “Start as early as possible to beat the rush. If you’ve got a car, stay the night in National Park Village or Turangi so you’re closer to the trailhead.”

3. Waitomo Glowworm Caves – A Galaxy Underground

The Waitomo Glowworm Caves in Waitomo are a surreal experience. Thousands of glowworms light up the cave ceilings, resembling a starry sky underground.

Local insight (Hamilton branch): “Beyond the main tourist cave, try black-water rafting through Ruakuri or Tumu Tumu caves. It’s adventurous and far less crowded than the glowworm boat tours.”

4. Franz Josef & Fox Glaciers – Ice Meets Rainforest

On the wild West Coast, Franz Josef Glacier and Fox Glacier tumble down from the Southern Alps into lush temperate rainforest. It’s one of the only places in the world where glaciers descend into such a low altitude rainforest environment.

Local insight (Greymouth & Hokitika branch): “Helicopter hikes are incredible, but don’t skip the valley walks. At Fox, the Lake Matheson loop is a must - on a still day, you’ll see perfect reflections of Aoraki/Mount Cook in the water.”

5. Aoraki / Mount Cook – The Tallest Peak in New Zealand

Standing at 3,724 metres, Aoraki / Mount Cook is New Zealand’s highest mountain, located in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park. Surrounded by glaciers like the Tasman and Hooker, it’s paradise for hikers and climbers.

Local insight (Christchurch branch): “If you’re short on time, do the Hooker Valley Track - it’s a relatively easy 3-hour return walk with suspension bridges, glacier views, and a jaw-dropping lake at the base of Aoraki.”

6. Lake Tekapo & the Church of the Good Shepherd

Lake Tekapo glows a surreal turquoise thanks to glacial flour in the water. On its shores stands the Church of the Good Shepherd, one of New Zealand’s most photographed spots. At night, Tekapo becomes a stargazer’s dream as part of the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve.

Local insight (Christchurch branch): “Don’t just snap the church and leave. Drive up to Mount John Observatory for panoramic lake views and stick around after dark for world-class stargazing.”

7. Rotorua’s Geothermal Wonders

Rotoura is bubbling, hissing, and steaming with geothermal activity. From the Pōhutu Geyser in Whakarewarewa to the Waimangu Volcanic Rift Valley, it’s like walking on another planet.

Local insight (Rotorua branch): “Yes, the geysers are epic, but don’t miss Kuirau Park - it’s free, right in the city centre, and has foot baths where locals go to soak.”

8. Punakaiki Pancake Rocks

9. Abel Tasman National Park – Beaches & Coast Track

The golden sands, turquoise water, and native bush of Abel Tasman National Park make it a coastal paradise. The Abel Tasman Coast Track is one of New Zealand’s Great Walks, but shorter kayak and boat trips make it accessible to all.

Local insight (Nelson/Picton/Blenheim branch): “Locals love to kayak from Kaiteriteri or Marahau - it’s the best way to see hidden coves and seals up close.”

10. Cathedral Cove – Coromandel Magic

Part of the Whanganui A Hei (Cathedral Cove) Marine Reserve, Cathedral Cove is an iconic beach with a natural rock archway and crystal-clear water. It’s accessible by boat, kayak, or on foot (when the track is open).

Local insight (Auckland & Tauranga branches): “Arrive early in the morning for fewer crowds, and pack a snorkel - the marine reserve has some of the best coastal snorkelling in the North Island.”

Bonus Natural Wonders You Shouldn’t Miss

Because let’s be honest, 10 wonders just isn’t enough for a country as ridiculously good-looking as New Zealand. Here are three more gems locals rave about:

11. Kaikōura – Where the Mountains Meet the Sea

Kaikōura, on the east coast of the South Island, is one of the best places in the world to see whales, dolphins, and albatross. Snow-capped mountains rise straight out of the ocean, making the scenery just as impressive as the wildlife encounters.

Local insight (Christchurch branch): “Self-drive from Christchurch along State Highway 1 - it’s one of the most beautiful coastal drives in the country. Stop at Nin’s Bin for fresh crayfish straight from the pot.”

12. Mount Taranaki – The Perfect Volcano

Mount Taranaki is a near-symmetrical stratovolcano on the west coast of the North Island. Often compared to Japan’s Mount Fuji, it’s surrounded by lush rainforest and stunning alpine walks in Egmont National Park.

Local insight (New Plymouth and Stratford branches): “The Pouakai Tarns track is the spot for that famous reflection shot of the mountain - worth the hike, especially on a clear day.”

13. The Coromandel Hot Water Beach

On the Coromandel Peninsula, Hot Water Beach is a quirky natural wonder where you can dig your own spa pool in the sand. At low tide, hot mineral water bubbles up, creating the perfect seaside soak.

Local insight (Auckland & Tauranga branches): “Bring a spade (or hire one locally) and time your visit two hours either side of low tide. For a more peaceful soak, head to the far end of the beach - it’s usually less crowded.”

Suggested Road Trip Itineraries to See New Zealand’s Natural Wonders

We know what you’re thinking: “These places sound incredible, but how do I fit them all in?” Don’t worry, we’ve mapped out two sample itineraries (one North Island, one South Island) to help you link these wonders together.

North Island Loop – 7–10 Days

Start/End: Auckland (RaD Car Hire branches available)

Route Highlights:

Auckland → Coromandel Peninsula (Cathedral Cove & Hot Water Beach)
Drive east to the Coromandel Peninsula for beaches and natural hot springs. (3 hrs from Auckland).
Coromandel → Rotorua (Geothermal Wonders)
Steam, geysers, bubbling mud pools, and a chance to soak in natural hot pools. (3.5 hrs).
Rotorua → Taupō → Tongariro National Park
Stop at Taupō for lake views, then tackle the Tongariro Alpine Crossing. (1 hr to Taupō, another 1.5 hrs to National Park).
Tongariro → Waitomo Caves → Hamilton
Head north to explore glowworm caves, then rest in Hamilton before looping back. (2 hrs to Waitomo, 1 hr more to Hamilton).
Hamilton → Auckland
Easy return to Auckland to drop off your rental car. (2 hrs).

Local tip (Taupō branch): “Book shuttle transport for the Tongariro Alpine Crossing - it’s a one-way track, and parking at the trailhead is limited.”

South Island Explorer – 10–14 Days

Start: Christchurch (RaD Car Hire branch available)
End: Queenstown or Christchurch

Route Highlights:

Christchurch → Lake Tekapo (Dark Sky & Church of the Good Shepherd)
Stop at Tekapo’s turquoise lake and world-famous stargazing spots. (3 hrs).
Tekapo → Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park
Hike the Hooker Valley Track for glacier and mountain views. (1 hr).
Aoraki → West Coast (Franz Josef & Fox Glaciers)
Cross the Southern Alps via Haast Pass or Arthur’s Pass to reach glaciers. (5–6 hrs).
West Coast → Punakaiki (Pancake Rocks)
Drive up the coast to see the blowholes in action. (3.5 hrs).
Punakaiki → Abel Tasman National Park (Nelson/Picton/Blenheim branches)
Kayak and hike among golden beaches. (4–5 hrs).
Optional detour north: Take the ferry at Picton if you’re continuing to the North Island.
Abel Tasman → Kaikōura
Head down the coast for whale watching and fresh crayfish. (4.5 hrs).
Kaikōura → Christchurch (or Queenstown via Tekapo)
Finish back in Christchurch, or continue south through Tekapo to Queenstown (with Te Anau for Milford Sound).

Local tip (Te Anau branch): “Plan Milford Sound early in your trip. Fiordland weather is unpredictable, so having flexibility means you can wait for a clear day.”

How to Plan Your Own Itinerary

Choose a base branch: RaD Car Hire has you covered in Auckland, Rotorua, Taupō, Hamilton, Tauranga, Nelson, Christchurch, Greymouth/Hokitika, Queenstown, and Te Anau as well as other locations throughout the country, depending on your starting point.
Allow buffer days: Weather can change plans, especially for hikes or flights (looking at you, Milford Sound).
Mix famous with hidden gems: Sure, see Milford Sound, but also stop at places like Peel Forest or lesser-known thermal parks in Rotorua.

Final Word: Whether you do a North Island loop, a South Island epic, or both, the freedom of a rental car is the key to discovering New Zealand’s natural wonders at your own pace.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a rental car to see New Zealand’s natural wonders?

Yes. While tours exist, driving gives you flexibility and freedom to stop at lesser-known spots along the way. Many wonders are in remote areas best reached by car.

What’s the best season to visit New Zealand’s natural wonders?

Summer (Dec–Feb): Best for hiking, beaches, and kayaking.
Winter (Jun–Aug): Perfect for glaciers, skiing, and clear stargazing.
Spring & Autumn: Fewer crowds, stunning colours, and mild weather.

Are New Zealand’s natural wonders free to visit?

Many are free, like Lake Tekapo, Cathedral Cove, and Pancake Rocks. Others, like Waitomo Caves or geothermal parks in Rotorua, have entry fees.

Can I visit all 13 natural wonders in one trip?

It’s possible, but you’ll need at least a month and a well-planned itinerary. Most visitors focus on either North Island or South Island highlights in a single trip.

Final Tip from RaD Car Hire: Whether you’re picking up your car in Queenstown, Rotorua, Auckland, or Nelson, or one of our other 22 locations found throughout New Zealand, plan your journey with extra time. The real beauty of New Zealand isn’t just the famous sights, it’s the little discoveries along the way.