New Zealand Done Right

New Zealand is one of the most beautiful countries in the world.

The island nation is covered in lush green rolling hills dotted with sheep and tropical flora and fauna. It’s home to incredible peaks, blue penguins, golden-colored mountains and adventure galore, so it’s not surprising that the country comes in at number three on the Rough Guides list.

For the free spirits who head down under, there are a few key experiences travelers should incorporate into their itineraries;

Fly to Milford Sound from Queenstown

One of the must-dos is to head to Milford Sound for a cruise. It’s known as one of the wonders of the world for good reason. Draped in waterfalls, shrouded in fog and teeming with wildlife, a visit is definitely remembered for a lifetime. Travelers can take a coach, fly or charter a helicopter to the sound where they join one of several cruises.

Flying or helicopter-ing into the area is the fastest and most scenic way to go—nothing beats a bird's-eye view.

Coaches take visitors to the sound, though it’s around a five-hour journey each way from Queenstown, making for a full day excursion.

Sailing in the Bay of Islands

The Bay of Islands is a slice of paradise. Small islands dot this massive bay in the northern part of the country. It’s one of the first places colonial settlers landed when they discovered New Zealand and is home to the nation’s first capital, Russell.

Visitors can head out by boat to explore the secret coves and hidden beaches that await around every corner of the bay. There is really nothing like snorkeling from a boat anchored on your own crescent of private waterfront.

Penguins in Dunedin

New Zealand’s southern outpost of Dunedin offers up a dramatic coastline that stands alone as an impressive attraction but is enhanced with colonies of sea lions, nesting albatross and a homestead for rare yellow-eyed and blue penguins.

A visit to the Penguin Centre and a cruise with Monarch Cruises can give visitors the chance to interact and get up close with these creatures. The cruise also gives a bird’s-eye view of the local albatross.

READ MORE: An Epic New Zealand Road Trip Itinerary

Antarctica Center in Christchurch

Christchurch has many exciting things to do such as hop-on, hop-off bus tours, exploring museums and enjoying the seaside. But one thing that travelers shouldn’t miss is its unique glimpse into the Antarctic world.

The International Antarctic Centre, located near the airport, offers hours of entertainment. Have you ever wondered what it would be like to endure an Antarctic storm? Do you know how long you can dip your hand in Arctic ice water? Have you ever traveled around in an Antarctic vehicle like the Hagglund?

Wonder no more as all these experiences are available to guests who stop in at the center.

Tour Weta in Wellington

After creating four Lord of the Rings movies and the subsequent Hobbit films, Weta is probably one of the most well-known studios in the world. Film enthusiasts who are in Wellington can book a tour of the famous site with everything from backstage private tours that top $1,700 to tours that average around $150 per person.

READ MORE: Tourism New Zealand Digs Deep With New Campaign

Where to Stay

While you’re visiting, you might want to check into some of the country's unique accommodation options. No need for a traditional room when travelers can stay in a jailhouse in Christchurch, glass pods in the countryside and a treehouse in Kaikoura.

How to Get There

Ready to head down under and have an adventure in New Zealand? Seek out the experts at BlueSky Tours. Arrange hotels, tours, transfers and more for your custom-designed journey.