Joanna James
New Zealand is one of the most geographically stunning countries in the world. The real-life 'Middle Earth' has spectacular scenery, except mind-blowing volcanoes, alpine lakes, limestone caves, geothermal springs, snowy mountains, fjords, forests, and beaches.
Among the most famous and beautiful of Auckland's black-sand beaches is Piha. The site became famous after being featured in the motion picture The Piano. Piha's naturally remote location makes it an alluring escape from the city when you want some quiet downtime. This region is enveloped by lush rainforests, two surf-friendly beaches, a private lagoon, and a waterfall. While the Lion Rock divides Piha's northern and southern ends, giving a dramatic effect to the landscape.
Tongariro National Park, this UNESCO World Heritage Site, has some of the most impressive natural wonders in New Zealand. From active volcanic craters, volcanoes, glacial lakes and spectacular alpine views, the park is a hiker's dream come true. Among the most popular treks in New Zealand is the Tongariro Northern Circuit within this park, making it an ideal location for adventurers. For ideas on luxury travel destinations, check out websites like The Luxury Travel Channel for more travel tips.
The Waitomo Caves are a must-visit destination for anyone who enjoys natural beauty. The village of Waitomo lies on the North Island and is popular for its elaborate subterranean cave systems. In the Glow Worm Caves, high numbers of glow worms called the Arachnocampa Luminosa light up to bring a sparkly unearthly glow to the gloomy caves. The extensive Ruakuri Cave has several stunning waterfalls and limestone rock formations. Even if you're not an adrenaline junkie, you'll love the adventure of navigating through these mysterious and beautiful underground caves.
This park has the two highest and most beautiful mountains in New Zealand: Mount Cook and Mount Tasman. Also, you can encounter the Hooker and Tasman glaciers, with hiking trails suitable for hikers of varying levels of experience. Mount Cook is also the tallest mountain in New Zealand, with a height of 3,724 metres. It lies on the Southern Alps, the mountain ridge running across the extent of the South Island. This popular tourist site also happens to be a favourite climb for professional mountaineers as well.
Rotorua's famous geothermal springs at Wai-O-Tapu are among one of the most awe-inspiring locations in New Zealand. This natural wonder is encircled by spraying geysers and natural rock pools, displaying the astonishing consequences of nature's work over thousands of years. They can viewed on foot, or via a curated experience, although the entire geothermal region covers around 18 sq km. Before Europeans descended to this land, it was the land of the Ngati Whaoa, a Maori tribe. This site is also a famous destination with tourists and designated as a scenic reserve since 1931, and a section of the reserve is run by the company "Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland". The local Maori tribal business, Te Arawa Group Holdings, bought the business in 2012, which runs its operations to this day.
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