Have not visited New Zealand yet? Don’t rush to buy the first tourist package you see on ad. Check what places worth a visit first and better build your own route and go as independent traveler.

1. The Coromandel Peninsula

A steep and hilly place with wonderful views. If you like places that are uninhabited and wild, the peninsula should be in your must visit list.

The population in the peninsula is spread over few small towns on the coasts. There is wonderful nature there and volcanic formations so don’t forget your camera.

Learn more about the peninsula here.

2. Queenstown

Queenstown is one of the most popular destinations in NZ especially for these who are interested in skiing and hiking. With its population of just about 10,000 you may see more tourists than locals. Still it’s a very calm place and far away from the stress in the big cities.

Here are some things to see there:

• Lake Wakatipu
• Ben Lomond mountain
• Southern Lakes district

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3. Westland Tai Poutini National Park

Looking for rainforest and scenic lakes? Add another pin on your travel map. Near the park you can find Franz Joseph Glacier and the Fox Glacier.

Learn more about the park here.

4. Cristchurch

Again, we are picking a place in the South island. This largest city there has most of the historic and heritage buildings. Regardless of it’s large (for New Zealand) population of 360,000 inhabitants Christchurch is extremely peaceful and traveler-friendly city.

With its temperate climate it’s good to visit at any time of the year. Christchurch is reachable by bus, train or airplane.

Learn more about what you can see and do there from Wikitravel’s guide.

5. Nelson

If you are more into arts and crafts plan a visit to this small city. It’s surrounded by beautiful mountains so nature lovers have something to see as well. The city holds many music festivals and the great Nelson Kite Festival.

Nelson is easy reachable by bus, boat, car or plane.

6. Punakaiki

Instead of explaining you why you should visit Punakaiki, have a look at this image gallery.

7. Aukland

Of course the visitor to New Zealand is most likely to land in Aukland. There is no need to rush through it – better ensure you have at least a couple of days to spend there.  Try to visit at least some of these locations:

• Auckland War Memorial Museum
• Antoinette Godkin Gallery
• Auckland Botanic Gardens
• Awaroa Walkway
• Cornwall Park
• Glenbrook Vintage Railway
• Kiwi Valley Farm Park
• Museum of Transport and Technology
• Sky Tower
• Zealandia Sculpture Garden

If you have already been to New Zealand and think there are better places to visit, share your opinion in the comments.