Top 5 Tourist Attractions in New Zealand - Best 5 Visitors Highlights in New Zealand

Also known as the Auckland Museum and Institute the Auckland War Memorial Museum is a must-visit highlight for all visitors touring the country. Located in Auckland the illustrious museum enjoys a scenic location atop of Auckland Domain with panoramic views of the Waitemata Harbour and Auckland city. Housed within a neoclassical structure built in 1929 the venue serves as a fitting tribute to Kiwi soldiers that lost their lives in World War I. Expanded in the 1960's the museum was first set up in 1852. Points of interest within the museum include the War Memorial Hall and the ornate Maori Court which contains an iconic Maori canoe on which ancient warriors travelled to Manukau Harbour. Auckland's natural and cultural history is also explored at this venue which houses extensive collections of ceramics, coins, ancient furnishings, flora and fauna specimens.

As an area of the country that was almost entirely altered geographically due to the volcanic eruption of Mount Tarawera Waimangu serves as one of New Zealand's most intriguing historic sites to date. Changed forever after the fateful eruption in 1886 the Waimangu Valley and its iconic sinter terraces are visible through photographic evidence as the terraces were obliterated from existence. Other landscapes that were destroyed overnight included the Maori community villages of Te Ahiri, Moura and Te Wairoa. A tour of the valley takes visitors across the haunting confines along Lake Rotomahana and the now inactive Waimangu Geyser. Other pit stops include the 4ha hot water lake known as Waimangu Cauldron and the Warbrick Terrace. The Cathedral Rock is also part of the trail which also explores the buried confines of Te Wairoa village.

Formerly known as Market Place and Market Square, Victoria Square in Christchurch is an iconic city square that should not be missed on a tour of New Zealand. As the main economic and financial epicentre of Christchurch since time immemorial and contained many state institutions including the local post office and the police station within its confines. Now serving as a popular city park and a lush, green hub in the heart of the city top highlights within the park include its many memorials and monuments. The statue of Captain James Cook is one such landmark while a bronze monument of Queen Victoria and The H. L. Bowker Fountain is also part of the landscape. The fame Flower Clock is also worth a visit while Victoria Square Poupou by Riki Manuel celebrating the signing of the Treaty of Waitangi is also an intriguing hotspot in the square.

Ideally suited for activity buffs and adrenalin junkies touring New Zealand Skyline Rotorua is located atop of Mount Ngongotaha within minutes of the heart of Rotorua. Littered with engaging attractions such as gondola rides, geo thermal hotspots and lakes the venue is also home to the Luge, a Sky Swing, Zoom Zipline adventures and the Volcanic Hills winery. The Jelly Belly gallery and the Food Market Kitchen are equally popular with diners as is the Stratosfare Restaurant & Bar,

As a relaxing punting expedition laid along the course of the Avon River this famed Christchurch activity is a must-experience tour for all first time visitors. Dressed in Edwardian garbs Punting on the Avon is a favourite eco friendly activity in the Garden City. Visitors based in Country Comfort or similar reputable hotels in Australia and New Zealand will find easy access to nearby attractions.