Five ideas for guided tours in New Zealand

• Milford Sound fjord

  Imagine yourself sailing through the dizzying cliffs that rise majestically above you, creating a maze of rock and water. Milford Sound fjord, with its deep blue waters, is a breathtaking visual spectacle. Each bend reveals a new panoramic view, with dizzying waterfalls cascading from the heights into the sparkling waters.
  As you explore, don’t miss the majestic Mitre Peak, an iconic mountain that stands proudly at the entrance to the fjord. Its distinctive shape and imposing presence make it one of New Zealand’s most photographed attractions.
  Venturing further afield, you’ll be amazed by the diversity of wildlife that inhabits this region. Fur seals bask on the rocks, dolphins play in the waves and blue penguins dive gracefully into the depths. Every moment spent in Milford Sound is an opportunity to get closer to nature and its untamed beauty.

• Abel Tasman’s Coastal Paradise

  Whether you’re into hiking, kayaking or lounging, you’ll find what you’re looking for in Abel Tasman. Here are a few places not to be missed during your stay.
  – The Abel Tasman Coastal Path: this 60 km trail runs along the coast, offering views of the sea and islands. The trail is divided into several sections, which you can do in one day or over several days. There are campsites and shelters along the way.
  – Anchorage Bay: one of the most beautiful beaches in the park, with fine sand and crystal-clear water. Anchorage Bay is also the starting point for several hikes, such as the one to Cleopatra Waterfall or the one across the suspension bridge over the Falls River.
  – Tonga Island Marine Park: this is a sanctuary for marine wildlife, where you can observe fur seals, dolphins, penguins and rare birds. You can explore the marine park by kayak or boat, and admire the coral reefs and colorful fish. If you’re lucky, you might even get to swim with the dolphins!

• Kaikoura

  As soon as you arrive in Kaikoura, you’ll be immediately captivated by the majesty of its mountains as they meet the azure waters of the Pacific Ocean. Explore the rugged coastline as you stroll along golden beaches, admire towering cliffs and listen to the soothing sound of waves breaking against rocks.
  Kaikoura is renowned for its abundant marine life, making this destination a paradise for nature lovers. Don’t miss the opportunity to take a boat trip to see the majestic humpback whales migrating along the coast.
  For hiking enthusiasts, Kaikoura Peninsula Park offers picturesque trails leading to panoramic viewpoints. Don’t miss the chance to hike the Kaikoura Peninsula Walkway, which rewards you with breathtaking views of the ocean and surrounding mountains.

• Tongariro National Park

  Tongariro National Park, located in the center of the North Island, is home to three majestic volcanoes: Ruapehu, Ngauruhoe and Tongariro. These volcanoes are sacred to the Maori, who regard them as ancestors and guardians of the land. They are also famous as the setting for the film “The Lord of the Rings”.
  The park offers a multitude of activities to suit all tastes and abilities. You can ski the slopes of Ruapehu, the park’s highest peak at 2,797 metres. You can admire the fumaroles, lakes and craters of Tongariro, which rises to 1,978 metres. You can also take up the challenge of climbing Ngauruhoe, the park’s most beautiful volcanic cone at 2,291 metres. But Tongariro National Park’s star attraction is undoubtedly the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, a 19.4-kilometer hike through breathtaking scenery. This hike is considered one of the most beautiful in the world, but also one of the most difficult. It takes between 6 and 8 hours to complete, depending on your pace and weather conditions.

• Rotorua

  From the moment you arrive in Rotorua, located in the Bay of Plenty region of the North Island, you’ll be captivated by the enchanting smell of sulfur in the air, a testament to the intense geothermal activity here.
  Here are the main attractions we recommend you visit in Rotorua:
  – Mitai Maori Village: this is a Maori village where you can attend a welcoming ceremony, watch a performance of the haka dance, and enjoy a typical meal called hangi, cooked in an earthen oven. You can also take an evening stroll through the forest to admire the glow worms and sacred springs.
  – Te Puia Springs: this geothermal park is home to the famous Pohutu geyser, New Zealand’s largest and most active. You can observe this impressive natural phenomenon, which shoots boiling water 30 metres into the air every hour or so.
  – Whakarewarewa – The Living Maori Village: this Maori village has existed for over 200 years, using geothermal resources for heating, cooking and bathing. You can take a guided tour of the village with a local who will explain the history and traditions of his people.
  – Mountain Biking in Whakarewarewa Forest Park: this is a sporty and fun activity that lets you discover the beauty of the Whakarewarewa Forest, nicknamed the Red Forest because of its exotic trees.