Absolute Most Thrilling Things to Do in New Zealand

New Zealand is known around the world for its friendly people and beautiful nature, which served as the background for “The Lord of the Rings” and “The Hobbit” trilogies. But beyond hobbits and smiles, most people come to this island nation for extreme sports. 

An indisputable center for adrenaline-filled experiences, Aotearoa (as the country is known in the Maori language), offers travelers skydiving, rappelling, heli-hiking and other thrilling activities. 

Ready for a rush? These are the most incredible adventures you can have in New Zealand.

Guiding you from north to south, this map includes everything from sea kayaking in Auckland to bungee jumping in Queenstown.

Beginning with the northernmost point on the map, let’s focus on Auckland. Often confused for the capital (which is, in fact, Wellington), New Zealand’s largest city is an urban dream. The comforts of modernity coexist with nature, as the city has plenty of hiking and mountain biking trails. 

For a unique activity, kayak to the scenic surrounding islands. You can watch the sun set over the city skyline from the water before making your way back.

Not far from Auckland, you’ll find Waikato District, a land marked by intricate cave systems. There are plenty of ways of seeing the caves, but by far the most thrilling is the Lost World tour. You’ll abseil 328 feet down a deep cave, whose upper walls are covered in greenery. 

Wade through the unique landscape in search of flora and fauna, including the famous glow worms. These organisms live on the cave walls and glow in the dark.

As the group turns off their headlights and looks up at the ceiling, you’ll have the disorienting but inspiring impression of looking up at the night sky.

Dining is not usually considered an adventurous experience, but leave it to New Zealand to make it so. In Taupo, you can participate in a Kai Waho experience.

Meaning “outdoor cuisine” in Mori, you’ll be foraging for food, then preparing it in a traditional Mori feast. Besides a delicious meal, this exciting activity connects you to the island’s culture. 

Taupo is also close to Rotorua, a famed destination where you’ll find large geothermal fields and the Whakarewarewa Thermal Village, one of the best places to see the Haka dance.