The 5 Most Instagram Worthy Spots in New Zealand
1. Wanaka Tree, Wanaka The Wanaka Tree, also known as “the lone tree of Wanaka” is located at the south end of Lake Wanaka in Mount Aspiring National Park. The tree is considered to be a symbol of hope and solitary and it is one of the most photographed trees in all of New Zealand. The best time to visit the Wanaka Tree is when the sun is low on the horizon in order to avoid the view being bleached out by the midday sun.
2. Wai-O-Tapu, Rotorua Wai-O-Tapu is an active geothermal area at the southern end of the Okataina Volcanic Centre. The Waiotapu Thermal Wonderland hosts New Zealand’s most colourful and unique geothermal elements sculpted by thousands of years of geothermal activity. The Wonderland consists of a geothermal park, the lady knox geyser, and the largest mud pool in New Zealand.
3. Hobbiton, Matamata The Hobbiton Movie Set was a significant location used for The Lord of the Rings film trilogy and the The Hobbit film trilogy. You can take a two hour guied set tour departing from The Shire’s Rest for around $90. The village also offers a four hour evening banquet tour for $200, a five hour beer festival in November for $220, and a five hour Hobbit Day celebration on September 22nd for $220.
4. Tongariro Alpine Crossing The Tongariro Alpine Crossing in Tongariro National park is a World Heritage site acknowledged for its natural and cultural significance. The tramping track is among the most popular day hikes in the country providing views of unique landforms, including the volcanic peaks of Ngauruhoe, Tongariro and Ruapehu. The park is subject to unpredictable weather so prepare with essentials for your journey.
5. Punakaiki (Pancake Rocks), Punakaiki Punakaiki is a small community on the West coast of the South Island of New Zealand on the edge of the Paparoa National Park. The Pancake Rocks and Blowholes can be found at the Dolomite Point south of the main village and they are created out of heavily eroded limestone where the sea bursts through several vertical blowholes. The foundations of the rocks were formed 30 million years ago.
