The 25 Most Instagramable Spots in New Zealand

New Zealand is high on many travel bucket lists, and it’s not difficult to see why. From ski resorts to coastal hikes, New Zealand is definitely an adventure waiting to happen. So what are some of the most visually stunning places in this majestic country?

1. The Remarkables

True to its name, this stunning mountain range and snow resort near Queenstown is favoured by snow bunnies, winter explorers and families alike.

2. The Forgotten World Highway

One of the most rugged and scenic drives in New Zealand, this route runs 148 km from Stratford in Taranaki to Taumarunui in the King Country.

3. Te Waikoropupu Springs

Also known as ‘Pupu Springs,’ these mystical springs in Golden Bay boast some of the clearest spring water in the whole world!

4. Abel Tasman National Park

Forest meets sea in this paradise, where you can enjoy hiking, kayaking, snorkelling and more.

5. Aoraki / Mount Cook

This alpine village sits at the foot of New Zealand’s highest mountain of the same name, which towers at 3,754 metres.

6. The Sky Tower in Auckland

This iconic Tower is one of the most photographed spots in New Zealand and is the tallest freestanding structure in the Southern Hemisphere.

7. Waitomo Caves

This incredible underground maze of caves, sinkholes, and subterranean rivers can be explored by foot or boat, or even black-water rafting and zip-lining for the daring.

8. Milford Sound

This stunning fiord on the South Island was once described by writer Rudyard Kipling as ‘the eighth wonder of the world.’

9. Lake Tekapo

This dazzling lake is a part of a UNESCO Dark Sky Reserve, which makes it an ideal hotspot for star-gazing. It’s also home to the famous Church of the Good Shepherd.

10. Franz Josef Glacier

This World Heritage Site offers an amazing landscape of ice, water, and mountains, which you can explore by guided walks or heli-hikes.

11. Huka Falls

The physical force of these icy-blue falls often approaches a powerful 220,000 litres per second.

12. Punakaiki Pancake Rocks

These unique geographic formations have been created over millions of years, giving the eccentric impression of stacked pancakes.

13. Tongarino Alpine Crossing

Tongarino is New Zealand’s oldest national park, and its world-renown Alpine Crossing trek offers amazing views of volcanic peaks and breath-taking lakes.

14. Tunnel Beach

Fossils can often be found along this jagged coast of sandstone cliffs, natural arches, and sea caves.

15. Queenstown

Nestled in between lakes and mountains, this unreal town is known for its adventure sports and is the perfect place to take a break from the highway.

16. Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland

Just a short drive from Rotorua, Wai-O-Tapu is home to bubbling hot springs, volcanic craters, and the world-famous Champagne Pool.

17. Mount Aspiring National Park

This magical wilderness has it all – glaciers, valleys, mountains and lakes – and was actually the filming location for Isengard in Lord of the Rings.

18. Dunedin Railway Station

This magnificent piece of historic architecture from the early 1900s is often called ‘Gingerbread George’ due to its quaint gingerbread-esque appearance.

19. Whakarewarewa Redwood Forest

Mountain bikers and hikers will enjoy the 5,600 hectares of this mighty forest, known for its towering Californian Coast Redwoods.

20. Mount Taranaki

This dormant volcano is favoured by mountaineers and experienced climbers, and its beautiful symmetry makes it an extremely photogenic mountain.

21. Lake Wanaka

The crystal clear waters of Lake Wanaka stretch over 193 square kilometres and are a hotspot for jet-boaters, kayakers and water-sports enthusiasts of all kinds.

22. Karangahake Gorge

The Karangahake Gorge Historic Walkway follows the remains of the old railway line and is one of the top cycling and mountain-biking destinations in New Zealand.

23. Cathedral Cove

This extremely photogenic coastal gem is accessible only by foot, boat or kayak so is perfect for those who like to get off the beaten track.

24. Haast Pass Blue Pools

The vivid blue glacial waters of these beautiful pools definitely stun, and they can be accessed by an easy walk through the peaceful forest.

25. Hobbiton Film Set

Lord of the Rings lovers frequently flock to this farm near Matamata, which was transformed into the fantastical Shire for Peter Jackson’s film trilogy.

These are just a few of the breath-taking spots in New Zealand waiting to be photographed, climbed, skied, sailed, cycled and more! So, secure your gear onto your vehicle, highlight your favourite locations and make some memories in the Land of the Long White Cloud.