A rare jewel of a land, New Zealand boasts an incredible number of stunning destinations where you can get out and about and enjoy a wide array of outdoor activities and adventures. The varied landscapes create a natural playground, with something to suit all tastes and interests. There’s certainly no need to spend time indoors!
We were inspired by what we read over at Subaru’s 8 adrenaline pumping activities – So keep reading for some outdoor adventure inspiration in New Zealand and maybe add some of these fantastic activities to your wish list:
Climbing
New Zealand’s craggy mountains offer lots of excellent climbing routes. There are easier climbs that are great for people new to the activity, as well as those that are a lot more challenging and only recommended for experienced climbers. Free climbing and aid climbing are both available. As well as an exciting physical activity, climbing also allows you to experience some of the very best views!
The weather conditions can be very harsh up the mountains, so make sure that you don’t try and attempt something that is beyond your current capabilities – there are heaps of different climbs, so there really is no need to put yourself in danger! Make sure that you always have all safety equipment too.
Some of the best places for climbing on the North Island include Wharepapa, which is usually said to offer the ultimate climbs in the country, the area around Lake Taupo, and Mount Eden. On the South Island, check out Castle Hill, Port Hills, Wanaka, Queenstown, Takaka Hill, and Long Beach.
Mountain Biking
Feel the rush and enjoy a spirit of independence as you head out by bike to explore the gorgeous mountains, hills, and valleys. This really is an activity that is suitable for people of varying experience and fitness levels as there are numerous different cycling routes all around the country, each one offering different degrees of difficulty but all offering great views and a chance to enjoy the very best of outdoor New Zealand.
Off Road Adventures
Whether you join a group tour, go it alone, or head to one of the specially created experience centres, an off road adventure is a really thrilling time! There are many ways to get off-road, whether it is in a jeep or a kart, or on an ATV, quad-bike, or dirt bike. Whether you’re looking for a fast and furious ride or a slower, yet still demanding, experience, there are lots of places to get off road all around New Zealand.
Explore the Southern Alps near Christchurch and Canterbury, head into the various forests (where permitted), bump across enormous sand dunes at the spectacular Ninety Mile Beach, do the recommended Cape Reinga route, enjoy great views at Taupo – and more!
Diving
Those who want to escape dry land for a while will be made up with all the fab diving opportunities. Snorkelling is also possible in many places. See a wide range of colourful and interesting sea creatures and be in awe of this other underwater world. If you like wreck diving, check out The Rainbow Warrior. Other top spots include Milford Sound, Poor Knights Island, and the Great Barrier Island.
Other terrific outdoor activities in New Zealand include horse riding, caving, rafting, kayaking, fishing, swimming, hiking, sky diving, bungee jumping, skiing, snowboarding, and Nordic walking!
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