Top famous tourist destinations in New Zealand

Oceania has long been famous for its pristine, majestic landscapes that attract travel enthusiasts from all over the world. In addition to Australia, New Zealand is also a noteworthy destination. With its breathtaking nature, unique Maori culture, and world-renowned landmarks, New Zealand is the perfect choice for a dream exploration journey.

In this article, let’s explore the top famous tourist destinations in New Zealand, along with handy tips and experiences for a smooth and memorable self-guided trip!

1. New Zealand – The “Land of the Kiwi” with countless spectacular landscapes

New Zealand is an island nation located in the southeastern Pacific Ocean, east of Australia. It comprises two main islands—the North Island and the South Island—as well as many smaller islands, covering an area of approximately 268,021 km² and home to around 5 million people.

On the world map, New Zealand is not only known as the “Land of the Kiwi,” but also as a dream destination for explorers, thanks to its diverse natural scenery: towering mountains, magnificent glaciers, crystal-clear lakes, and long, romantic coastlines.

With its breathtaking natural beauty, New Zealand is the perfect choice for adventurous souls.

2. Detailed Guide on How to Get to New Zealand

2.1 Booking Flights to New Zealand

Flying is the fastest and most convenient way to travel from Vietnam to New Zealand. While direct flights from Vietnam to New Zealand are not as common as flights to Australia, several airlines still operate both direct and connecting routes to major cities in New Zealand.

Notably, starting from September 13, 2025, Vietjet will officially launch the Ho Chi Minh City – Auckland route, making travel to New Zealand more affordable and convenient than ever for Vietnamese tourists. The flights are expected to operate with a frequency of 4 round trips per week, using a modern fleet that offers many amenities for passengers. Don’t miss the chance to hunt for Vietjet tickets to New Zealand at attractive promotional prices.

Vietjet launches the Ho Chi Minh City – Auckland route, opening up a more affordable and convenient way to explore New Zealand.

2.2 Transportation Guide in New Zealand

The most common form of public transport in New Zealand is the bus. The country has a well-developed network of city and intercity buses, making it easy for travelers to get around and enjoy the scenery. At bus stops, electronic boards typically display the stop number, estimated arrival time (DUE), bus number (Route), destination, and delay status—very convenient for tourists.

In addition, trains are also a popular means of public transportation, especially for longer journeys, although they are available only in certain major cities. In Auckland, ferries connect the city with North Shore, while Wellington is known for its smaller ferries and its iconic cable car—a must-try experience you shouldn’t miss.

However, if you want to fully explore New Zealand’s tourist attractions with greater flexibility, renting a car is a great option for traveling between major cities. New Zealand has many rental companies like Jucy Rentals and Thrifty, offering vehicles starting from around 22 NZD (approximately 340,000 VND per day).

3. Top Famous Tourist Attractions in New Zealand

When planning a trip to New Zealand, one of the top concerns for travelers is discovering the must-visit destinations. Below are some iconic spots you shouldn’t miss on your journey to explore the “Land of the Kiwi”:

3.1 Tongariro National Park – A UNESCO World Heritage Site

Established in 1887, Tongariro is the first national park in New Zealand. Its central location on the North Island makes it a convenient destination for travelers.

Tongariro National Park covers an area of 786 km² and encompasses three active volcanoes: Tongariro (at the center), Ruapehu, and Ngauruhoe. The stunning combination of majestic natural landscapes and rich indigenous cultural values earned it UNESCO World Heritage status in 1990. A visit here promises unforgettable experiences:

Mount Ruapehu: One of the world’s most active volcanoes and a key filming location for The Lord of the Rings. Its breathtaking scenery leaves a lasting impression. In winter, you can also enjoy skiing down its slopes.
Ngauruhoe Crater Lake: Technically the crater of Mount Tongariro, this lake is famous for its water color, which shifts with the weather—creating a magical landscape.
Tongariro Alpine Crossing: Often cited as one of the world’s best one-day treks, this trail is perfect for adventurous hikers. Be sure to prepare your fitness to conquer it!
Spotting the short-tailed bat: A rare and endangered species, the short-tailed bat is found almost exclusively in New Zealand—an exciting wildlife sighting for nature lovers.

Location: Central North Island, New Zealand.

Ngauruhoe Crater Lake ranks among the top tourist destinations in New Zealand, renowned for its water color that shifts with the weather.

3.2 Rotorua – The City of Hot Springs and Maori Culture

No list of New Zealand’s top travel destinations would be complete without Rotorua—known as the city of hot springs and Maori heritage. Located on the Pacific Ring of Fire, Rotorua is blessed with a network of hot springs, geysers, and bubbling mud pools. Here are some must-try experiences waiting for visitors:

Soaking in natural hot springs: Enjoy deeply relaxing moments in geothermal hot water pools, perfect for relieving stress. The sulfur content in the water is also beneficial for skin conditions.
Lake Rotorua: This is the second-largest freshwater lake on New Zealand’s North Island. Its warm waters, influenced by geothermal activity, tend to become cloudy during windy weather due to its shallow depth. It’s a great spot for fishing and sightseeing.
Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland: The star attraction here is the Champagne Pool. The vivid red, orange, and yellow mineral deposits around the pool create a surreal, artistic landscape.
Immersive Maori cultural experience: The Maori people—New Zealand’s first indigenous settlers—have long called Rotorua home. Visitors can learn about the history and development of this ancient culture, and also witness the dramatic haka war dance performed by the Wahiao tribe of Te Whakarewarewatanga Oteo Petaua Wahiao, a tradition dating back 225 years.

Location: Bay of Plenty region, North Island, New Zealand.

3.3 Hobbiton – The Fairytale Village from “The Lord of the Rings”

If you're a movie lover, you definitely can’t miss Hobbiton—the iconic film set from the blockbuster The Lord of the Rings trilogy. Here, visitors can marvel at the charming little Hobbit houses, stroll through enchanting village paths, and immerse themselves in the magical scenery once only seen on screen.

Location: Alexander Farm in Matamata, Waikato, North Island, New Zealand.

What are the must-visit destinations in New Zealand? One you can't miss is Hobbiton – the fairytale village from The Lord of the Rings.

3.4 Mount Cook (Aoraki) – The Highest Peak in New Zealand

Mount Cook (Aoraki) is the highest mountain in New Zealand, standing at 3,724 meters. It is located within the Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park. This destination is a favorite for mountaineering, trekking, and nature photography enthusiasts. With towering peaks, vibrant blue glaciers, and crystal-clear skies, Mount Cook offers an experience that is both physically demanding and visually breathtaking.

Location: Near Twizel town, South Island, New Zealand.

Among the top tourist spots in New Zealand, Mount Cook (Aoraki) – the highest peak in the “Land of the Kiwi” – is an absolute must-visit.

3.5 Hauraki Gulf Marine Park – Whale and Seal Watching

Hauraki Gulf Marine Park is the largest marine reserve in New Zealand, home to rare birds and marine species. This famous destination offers unforgettable experiences such as whale, dolphin, and seal watching tours, or kayaking and paddleboarding on emerald waters. You can also explore some of New Zealand’s iconic islands like Ponui Island, Waiheke Island, Tiritiri Matangi, or admire the volcanic dome of Rangitoto Island.

Location: Upper North Island, New Zealand

3.6 Waitomo Glowworm Caves – A Magical Underground Starry Sky

The Waitomo Glowworm Caves, located in the town of Waitomo, are part of a cave system that includes Waitomo, Ruakuri, and Aranui caves, first discovered in 1887. Situated over 40 meters underground, the caves are famous for their spectacular limestone formations and especially the thousands of Arachnocampa Luminosa glowworms found only in New Zealand. These glowworms emit a mysterious green-blue light, hanging from the cave ceiling like stars, creating a dreamlike “underground sky” that draws visitors from around the world.

Location: Waitomo, North Island, New Zealand.

Waitomo Glowworm Caves is one of New Zealand’s most iconic and popular travel destinations.

4. Essential Tips for Self-Guided Travel in New Zealand

Book accommodations and attraction tickets in advance: New Zealand is a favorite destination for travelers from all over the world, especially during summer (December to February). To avoid sold-out hotels and tickets—and to enjoy better deals—you should book at least 1–2 months in advance.
Hunt for cheap airfares with Vietjet: Just like with hotels, it's best to plan early and book your flight tickets to New Zealand as soon as possible. Vietjet is one of the few Vietnamese carriers operating direct routes to New Zealand at highly affordable rates, helping reduce international travel costs. Don’t forget to regularly check Vietjet’s website for promotional campaigns—especially the 12 PM to 2 PM “Zero VND” fare window that lets you fly for next to nothing. See more details here!
Bring warm clothing—even in summer: New Zealand’s weather can be unpredictable, especially in mountainous areas. Even during summer, you’ll need jackets, scarves, gloves, and beanies to stay warm and comfortable throughout your trip.
Be physically prepared: New Zealand is a paradise for trekking enthusiasts. If you’re planning to explore famous spots like the Tongariro Alpine Crossing or trails in Fiordland, make sure you’re in good physical condition.
Carry both credit cards and cash: While credit cards and digital payments are widely accepted, some rural areas in New Zealand may not support card payments. It’s wise to carry some cash for essential purchases.
Important notes for self-driving: Renting a car is a great way to explore New Zealand with flexibility. However, remember that driving in New Zealand is on the left side of the road. Familiarize yourself with local traffic laws and drive cautiously to ensure your safety and that of others.

Book your flight to New Zealand with Vietjet today and enjoy attractive promotional offers!

New Zealand is truly an ideal destination for nature lovers, cultural explorers, and outdoor adventure seekers. With the top tourist spots suggested in this article, we hope you can create a well-rounded and detailed itinerary for your journey.

With careful planning and a reasonable budget, your adventure through the beautiful Land of the Kiwi will be filled with unforgettable memories.

Visit Vietjet’s official information channels via the links below to stay updated on the latest flight schedules and airfare to New Zealand.