Over the years, we’ve shared plenty of attractions, events and excursion ideas, but even now, we still discover something new among the many stunning destinations New Zealand has to offer. It is truly a country full of surprises.
If you’re looking to stray from the beaten track on your visit here’s our guide to 7 of our favourite New Zealand hidden gems.
1. Limestone Creek Glowworm Caves, Manawatū
One of the most striking experiences New Zealand has to offer is its famous glowworm caves in Waitomo, on North Island. But this tourist trail is often so busy with guided tours that the shine of the spectacle can dull.
If you want to feel more connected to the towering caves and their illuminating inhabitants, the Limestone Creek Reserve is the perfect alternative. Set out on the 600m circular walk and you’ll still get to see moss-studded stalactites and stalagmites as well as clouds of brilliant glow worms, but without worrying about tripping over all the other people there to appreciate the sight.
2. New Chums Beach, Wainuiototo Bay
Of course, New Zealand has plenty of secret beaches scattered about its shores, but New Chums Beach is one of the best.
While it is relatively well-known, it’s rarely visited as you can only reach it on foot. With soft white sand and a shimmering turquoise sea, it is easily one of the most beautiful locations on the North Island.
Visit during low tide (as high tide means wading through a waist-deep river!) and you can reach it within 30 minutes. You will need to traverse some rocks on your way, but the further you follow the trail on the northeast coast of the Coromandel Peninsula, the more secluded your coastline becomes.
Obviously, New Chums Beach isn’t the most accessible in the country, but if you can conquer the journey, you’ll be more than rewarded.
3. Gibbs Farm Sculpture Park, Auckland
Gibbs Farm Sculpture Park is nestled in the greenery an hour outside Auckland. If you’re looking for traditional artworks, this might not be for you but if you have any interest in the awesome potential of modern sculpture, this hidden gem is a must-see.
Inspired by the flow of the land, the rolling hills and the vast water of Kaipara Harbour, here you’ll find modern sculptures designed to challenge their audience and their creators. They manage to convey the awe of the landscape without ever being lost in it.
Just be aware that if you want to see the artwork at Gibbs Farm, you do need to make an appointment via their website first!
Photo – Gibbs Farm Sculpture Park website
4. Lake Gunn, Fiordland
Many visitors will dash to Milford Sound to enjoy the spectacular views, but if you’d rather see the stunning beauty of New Zealand without a crowd around you, stop off on the way and head to Lake Gunn instead.
This South Island haven offers an easy 45-minute nature walk through its beautiful forests and picnic area with a view out over the lake.
5. Elephant Rocks, Waitaki Valley
Find a connection to the ancient history of New Zealand by visiting the Elephant Rocks in North Otago.
Around 25 million years in the making, the massive limestone rocks in this boulder field vary from 1-10 meters in size. These imposing spectacles will dwarf you in both scale and historical significance.
The entire Duntroon area is actually known for prehistoric connections, so if the rocks catch your interest, a visit to Vanished World visitor centre will give you a more in-depth look into how the area has been shaped throughout history.
If you’re more focused on the present, the rocks still offer an awe-inspiring sight and are just off the Alps to Ocean Cycle Trail so they can easily be incorporated into a longer hike or cycle.
6. Castlepoint, Wairarapa
If nature is your thing, Castlepoint Scenic Reserve has plenty of options to get excited about. Take a stroll along one of their walking trails (the 30-minute Lighthouse Walk or 90-minute Deliverance Cove Track) and you could spot a whole range of nature highlights.
Plenty of native birds, including red-billed gulls, black shags and reef herons, nest on the reef and cliffs of the bay, while the water of Castlepoint’s beach is regularly visited by dolphins and fur seals. You may even spot a small whale!
The reef itself holds its own allure, but Castlepoint is also home to a unique botanical inhabitant. This limestone reef and Castle Rock are the only places in the entire world where you can find the Castlepoint daisy (brachyglottis compactus).
7. Oparara Basin, West Coast
Nestled on the West Coast of the South Island, the Oparara Caves offer a number of short walks studded with unusual sights. From a soaring limestone arch (the largest in Australasia) to smaller but no less picturesque arches and caves, the Oparara river system has spent 35 million years carving its mark into the landscape and it is worth witnessing.
And if this is not enough, you can branch out further through Kahurangi National Park to explore the lush, ancient rainforest for a breath of fresher, brighter air too.
Of course, these are just some of New Zealand’s secret spots. From beautiful bays to magnificent mountains to incredible national parks, New Zealand’s stunning scenery is constant and, really, almost every turn leads to another beauty spot. If you want a holiday set against endless beautiful backdrops, get in touch and book your New Zealand trip today!