If you're the type who sometimes likes to avoid human interaction for days, New Zealand could be your escape route.
This country has more sheep and cows than people, so it's definitely a delight for antisocial people and introverts. But then again, New Zealand has a lot more to offer than just vast farmlands and backyards.
There are so many different activities that you can try. From all levels of daredevil stunts to all kinds of chill, you can find them on this side of the planet.
I have listed just a few of the activities that you might want to try.
1. Bungy Jump (Queenstown)
Queenstown is where bungy jumping originated, so where else to try this activity than right in this town? It would be a shame to AJ Hackett, the one who invented the bungy jump, not to pay tribute to his brilliant idea.
There are a lot of platforms that you can go to for the ultimate experience, but we recommend the original Bridge Jump. But since it's the original one, it can get a bit crowded. So for other options, you can go to Ledge Bungy and the Nevis Bungy for a more thrilling swing above the beautiful New Zealand landscape.
2. Shotover Canyon Swing (Queenstown)
Regular park swings are cool, sure but when you're in Queenstown, the Shotover Canyon Swing is the deal!
While New Zealand may seem quiet and tame, well, it's obviously not, especially if you've tried the shotover canyon swing.
Shout your heart out at one of the most adrenaline-fuelled adventures in the city. Like any other heart-pumping activities, it's normal to feel like you want to back out once you're next in line, but please don't.
The canyon swing in Queenstown is one of the best in the world so it's a must!
3. Paragliding (Queenstown)
With such a picturesque view of Queenstown, who wouldn't want to fly over it? That's what paragliding is for.
For you to be able to experience that, you have to ride the Skyline Gondola to the top of the mountain to get you ready for a 15-minute paragliding flight.
Back in the day, we would always say, we want to be able to fly. This is your chance. I say you grab it!
4. Boogie Board Down Sand Dunes (90-Mile Beach)
Slide down the sand dunes of a 90-mile beach for an experience you would want to repeat over and over again.
The Boogie Board Down Sand Dunes will attract both the young and the young at heart. If you don't fancy bodyboarding it's almost as much fun to watch others hurtling down the sand dune. Get yourself on a trip from Paihia to Cape Reinga to enjoy this fantastic activity.
5. Whitewater Rafting (Rangitata River)
New Zealand is known for its beautiful spectacle of snow-capped mountains, but it's also equally blessed with rivers perfect for whitewater rafting.
If you think that most of their rivers are calm and inviting, the Rangitata River will surprise you with its crazy tendencies. Prepare to be swayed over angry rapids, tight passageways and rocky bottoms that will make you want to hold on for your dear life.
Just in case you still feel a little adventurous after the ride, you can still linger around and swim at the calmer parts of the river for some dipping and sliding.
It's an exciting adventure that you should try at least once in your life.
6. Spot Humpback Whales (Kaikoura)
It's not surprising at all to learn that a lot of the wild marine species lurk around the waters of New Zealand. Given its location and the abundance of almost untouched natural habitats in the area, it's really one of the best places to spot our favorite sea creatures.
Humpback whales, sperm whales and sometimes even orcas too, can be found in Kaikoura. This particular spot is usually their migratory route from Antarctica. If you happen to be in New Zealand during winter, expect to see humpback whales playing around the water. Orcas are often spotted during the summer so either way, you would still be able to catch a glimpse of these creatures.
Kaikoura is also one of the most popular dolphin spotting places in New Zealand.
7. Go Sailing (Auckland)
This country is gifted with amazing coastlines making it great for sailing. What would you do with more than 15,000 km of fine coast if you don't use it for recreational activities?
In fact, doing so can encourage tourists and locals alike to take a step back from their regular lives and catch some wind for a little while.
Since New Zealand also has a lot of large lakes, you can also try to sail in one of them. It's really become a highly-recommended activity during your stay here.
It's a good way to unwind and also a great workout as well, not to mention it's another eco-friendly way to relax.
And where do we say is the best place in New Zealand to try this? Nowhere else but the city of sails! In Auckland, there are a lot of sailing competitions that have happened here. It only means that the wind favors the sails on this side of town.
There are also luxury sailboats available around this area just in case you're wondering and you have the spending power to rent one then, by all means, go for it.
8. Walk the Milford Track (Fiordland National Park)
What's a trip to New Zealand without exploring its hiking trails?
Beware that to be able to fully get a good view of the stunning landscape, you need to do a lot of walking. It's the best way to see these things so you better bring your walking sticks to help you survive what could be hours and hours of walking around the Fiordland National Park where you can get a wonderful hiking experience.
If you're not satisfied with just a day hike, you can stay around for three more days to really cover the whole track. It's totally worth it especially knowing that you'll be greeted by the finest scenery in all of New Zealand during this walking trip.
9. Hike The Tongariro Crossing (Tongariro National Park)
Volcanic lakes and craters that seem out of this world, valleys and jaw-dropping mountain slopes are just some of the reasons why you should never skip Tongariro Crossing when you're visiting New Zealand.
It's considered to be one of the most beautiful day hikes in the entire world and we couldn't agree more. If it looks familiar to you, well then it's because it's a famous spot. The Lord of the Rings used this location as their Mount Doom.
Exploring Tongariro Crossing is almost exactly like exploring the middle earth and it's beyond awesome!
10. Take a Sip on New Zealand Wine (Marlborough)
Once you do your research about New Zealand, you will know that NZ is known for making some of the most delicious wines on earth. New Zealanders are very passionate about it so it's definitely not surprising that they produce excellent quality wines.
If you're done trying out all the activities that can set your adrenaline on fire, then, we advise you to go on some wine tasting in Marlborough to tame your nerves and to get a whiff of exotic and fruity notes from their winery. In fact, they even hold 60% of the wineries in the country.
New Zealand may look gentle and calm at first sight, but it sure can rock your boat in all ways depending on how you're willing to be rocked.
Author: Jean Deruiter is a brand consultant and an outdoor enthusiast from the US. He writes about high quality and innovative travel gears, as well as the dos and don’ts of outdoor travelling.
