New Zealand is a paradise for varied nature, with 13 national parks in the North and South Island. This means there are more than 30,000 square kilometres of diverse wildlife, flora, and fauna to be discovered. The locals are proud of the unique nature found in their country and are always happy to show you around. You can explore these stunning parts of New Zealand on foot, by helicopter, car, or boat!
Fiordland National Park, New Zealand
The Fiordland National Park is 1.2 million hectares of unparalleled natural paradise and is listed on the UNESCO World Heritage List thanks to its incredible geology, unique flora and fauna and immense forest.
Abel Tasman, New Zealand
Abel Tasman National Park is one of New Zealand's most popular national parks and an outdoor adventurer’s dream, it is known for its golden beaches, granite cliffs, and world-famous coast track.
Central Plateau & Tongariro, New Zealand
Home to three active volcanic mountains, and iconic and majestic landscapes, Tongariro National Park is the oldest national park in New Zealand.
Mount Aspiring National Park, New Zealand
Due to its location on the South Island, Mount Aspiring National Park is one of the least developed national parks in New Zealand. It, therefore, has a large area of untouched wilderness, which is attractive to the more adventurous spirits.
Mount Cook, New Zealand
Explore Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, New Zealand's most dramatic natural beauty. It has the highest mountains, longest glaciers, permanent snow, crystal-clear lakes and star-studded skies.
Would you like to discover more about New Zealand? Let Kieran inspire you on a virtual journey through the country and answer all of your questions.
Join Kieran at an online presentationThere are of course a few other national parks that we recommend you visit. They are listed below.
Climbing 924 metres through the heart of Arthur's Pass National Park is one of the highest settlements in New Zealand. A stretch of mountainous road connecting Christchurch with the wild West Coast is one of the most spectacular scenic drives in the South Island.
The landscape varies immensely from east to west. The drier east consists of mountainous beech forests and wide riverbeds. While the west has high rainfall, consisting of deeper rivers and rainforests. Arthur’s Pass Village is the starting point for many walks through the national park, including Bealey Spur Track, Avalanche Peak and the Devil’s Punchbowl Waterfall.
Bird-watching enthusiasts are in for a treat! A cheeky olive-green New Zealand parrot – the Kea can often be spotted. It is the only alpine parrot in the world and is well-known for its intelligence.
Venture into a true outdoor Kiwi experience at Whanganui National Park. In the central North Island, this national park is brimming with hiking trails, rivers, valleys, mountains, native forest and birds. Learn about the rich history of the region, and take a walk to The Bridge to Nowhere, built-in 1935. Following the footsteps of pioneers who settled here after WWI.
Whanganui River runs the length of the national park and is New Zealand’s third-longest river. A popular river for canoeing, kayaking and jet boating. The Whanganui River is sacred to local Maori and after 150 years of negotiations, the river was granted the same legal rights as humans in 2017.
At TravelEssence, we specialise in crafting custom-made holidays that take you off the beaten path and create memories to last a lifetime. We believe in connecting with the heart and soul of a place, introducing you to the locals who call it home. Engage in conversations with fascinating individuals who will share their stories, traditions, and way of life, leaving an indelible mark on your journey.
Questions? Speak to one of our specialists by phone Mon - Sat 0900 until 2100. You can discuss your travel plans in detail where and when it suits you, also in the evenings and on weekends on a no obligation basis.
020 36 95 95 69
