Tailor-made tours in New Zealand: cultural sites to visit
Made up of two main islands, New Zealand is one of the most popular destinations for nature lovers and budding adventurers. If civilization is mainly present on the North Island, the South Island is home to most of the wild landscapes. However, volcanoes and glaciers can be observed both in the north and in the south. As a result, New Zealand is well suited for road trips and is also considered the land of the Maori people. Therefore, if you want to discover the landscapes as well as the culture of this country, here are 3 cultural sites to visit during your stay.
Wellington
Located on the edge of the Cook Strait, Wellington is the southernmost city of the North Island in addition to being the capital of New Zealand. It is also nicknamed “Windy Wellington” because of the violent winds in the Cook Strait. Although it is quite discreet and less populated than Auckland, it has nothing to envy of the big city. Indeed, Wellington is a city on a human scale that is full of charm. It often ranks among the best cities in the world for its quality of life.
You can easily explore the center of the capital on foot and you will discover bars and restaurants that are often busy and lively in the evening. Also take the time to walk around the port or walk along Oriental Bay where there are pretty little beaches just a stone’s throw from the city center. Regarding cultural visits, know that Wellington has a good number of museums and galleries. Besides, don’t miss a visit to the Te Papa Museum which is one of the largest and most important museums in New Zealand. This is an interactive museum that also showcases Maori culture.
Rotorua in New Zealand
Nicknamed “Sulphur City”, Rotorua is a New Zealand city in the North Island which is characterized by its particular geographical location. Indeed, it is located in one of the most geothermal areas of the country and its main interest remains its volcanic activity. Moreover, several geothermal parks such as Waimangu Volcanic Valley and Wai-O-Tapu are worth the detour. There you will discover hot springs, geysers, boiling mud pools and fumaroles. Although these paid parks are very popular, there are nevertheless free sites such as Kuirau Park in the city center, Raibow Mountain and Kerosene Creek.
Aside from its geothermal activity and thermal springs, the Rotorua region is a mecca for Maori culture. Since it is home to a large Māori community, you can experience its traditions over dinner with a hangi performance or by visiting authentic villages like Ohinemutu and Whakarewarewa. If you use a specialized agency, don’t forget to find out about the cultural sites to visit during a New Zealand tour with Prestige Voyages.
Tongariro National Park
Known as the first park in the world to be listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1993, Tongariro National Park is one of the country’s most iconic landscapes. While it is known for its absolutely extraordinary volcanic landscapes, it is also a place of strong cultural and spiritual significance for the Maori. Located in the center of the North Island, this volcanic region is home to three volcanoes which are Ruapehu, Ngauruhoe and Tongariro.
You should know that Ruapehu is the highest volcano, measuring 2,797 meters, but also the most active. You will have the opportunity to ski on its slopes in winter. Moreover, this park became famous throughout the world following the success of the “Lord of the Rings” trilogy given that Mount Ngauruhoe served as the setting for the film. Then there is Mount Tongariro, peaking at 1,967 meters, which is known for its essential hike: the Tongariro Alping Crossing.
