In a nutshell
- New Zealand is world-famous for its stunning nature — but it also has some seriously cool cities! Here we share what we think are the 10 most beautiful places in New Zealand, from the South Island all the way to the North.
- For each destination, we tell you what’s worth seeing, what you can do there, and give you a well-located hotel recommendation with great value for money.
- Want the full picture? Check out our guide to the best attractions in New Zealand for even more inspiration.
The Most Beautiful Cities in New Zealand on a Map
For better orientation, we’ve marked all the cities on a map. We’ll start with the highlights on the South Island, then move on to the North Island.
The Most Beautiful Places on New Zealand's South Island
The South Island of New Zealand has hardly any large cities — instead, it’s home to mostly charming little towns. That doesn’t make them any less worth visiting, though. Here are our four favorites.
Also read our tips and itinerary for New Zealand’s South Island
Queenstown
What you need to know: Queenstown is tucked into the mountains in the south of New Zealand and is famous for incredible outdoor adventures. In winter you can ski, in summer you can hike and try extreme sports like bungee jumping. It’s honestly one of our favorite spots in the entire country.
Top highlights: Right in Queenstown, the hikes up Ben Lomond and Queenstown Hill are seriously rewarding. For a day trip, we highly recommend the boat tour at Milford Sound.
Personal tip: Queenstown is a real tourist hotspot, so it’s always busy. A quieter alternative is Wanaka, which is often called “little Queenstown” — same stunning scenery, far fewer crowds.
Our hotel recommendation: Driftaway Queenstown
Read all our tips for Queenstown
Christchurch
What you need to know: Christchurch is the largest city on the South Island and a great starting or ending point for a road trip around New Zealand. The surrounding area is packed with beautiful beaches and mountains with stunning vantage points. The city itself is still being rebuilt after a devastating earthquake in 2011 — but that gives it a fascinating, resilient energy.
Top highlights: Ride the Christchurch Tram and gondola, stroll through the Botanic Gardens, and visit the Canterbury Museum.
Our hotel recommendation for Christchurch: The Observatory Hotel
Read all our tips for Christchurch
Dunedin
What you need to know: Dunedin is a lively university town at the far south of the east coast, with a cool, creative energy. Here, beautiful beaches meet rare wildlife and some seriously impressive architecture.
Top highlights: Head to the coast for Tunnel Beach and the famous Moeraki Boulders. In the town center, don’t miss the Railway Station and the surprisingly steep Baldwin Street.
Our hotel recommendation for Dunedin: Hotel St. Clair
Read all our tips for Dunedin
Nelson
What you need to know: Nelson is a city that really surprised us — in the best way. The vibe is totally laid-back, mountains rise up in the background, and the surrounding area is dotted with wineries. On top of that, the city sits right by the sea, and at high tide the beach is perfect for a swim.
Top highlights: In Nelson itself, the Centre of New Zealand Monument and the Queen’s Gardens are worth your time. In the surrounding area, definitely make the trip to Abel Tasman National Park and Nelson Lakes.
Our hotel recommendation for Nelson: Joya Garden
The Most Beautiful Places on New Zealand's North Island
The North Island is more densely populated and has more larger cities than the South Island. Here are our picks for the six prettiest places on New Zealand’s North Island.
Also read our tips and itinerary for New Zealand’s North Island
Auckland
What you need to know: Auckland, with around 1.5 million residents, is by far the biggest city in New Zealand. The downtown is full of tall, modern buildings — but since Auckland sits right on the water, escaping the urban buzz and getting into nature is super easy.
Top highlights: The Sky Tower, the War Memorial Museum, and a day trip to the Waiheke Islands are all must-sees.
Our hotel recommendation for Auckland: M Social Auckland
Read all our tips for Auckland:
Wellington
What you need to know: Wellington is the capital of New Zealand and the political heart of the country — but there’s a lot more to it than politics. The city has cool up-and-coming neighborhoods and some genuinely beautiful beaches. You can also take the ferry from Wellington to New Zealand’s South Island, which is an experience in itself.
Top highlights: Stroll down Cuba Street, ride the cable car up to the lookout, and hike up Mount Victoria for a sweeping panorama over the city.
Our hotel recommendation for Wellington: The Cobbler Hotel
Read all our tips for Wellington:
Taupo
What you need to know: Taupo is a small resort town sitting almost exactly in the center of the North Island, right on the shores of the lake that shares its name. On a clear day, you can see all the way to the Tongariro volcano — which is a pretty special sight.
Top highlights: Visit the Craters of the Moon geothermal area and the Huka Falls rapids, and take a boat tour on Lake Taupo to the Maori rock carvings.
Our hotel recommendation for Taupo: Ashbrook Motel Taupo
Rotorua
What you need to know: Rotorua is not far from Taupo and is known for its geothermal parks, geysers, and deeply rooted Maori culture. The city sits right on the shores of a lake, which adds to its charm.
Top highlights: A trip to the Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland, the Whakarewarewa Maori Village, and a soak at the Kerosene Creek Hot Pool — all absolutely worth your time.
Our hotel recommendation for Rotorua: Capri on Fenton
Read all our tips for Rotorua
Napier
What you need to know: Napier is a real under-the-radar pick among the most beautiful places in New Zealand. The city sits in the middle of a wine region, making it a standout destination for any wine lover. But you can also kick back on the long Napier Beach or head into the surrounding mountains.
Top highlights: Do a wine tasting, enjoy the view from Te Mata Peak, and visit the National Aquarium.
Our hotel recommendation for Napier: The County Hotel
Tauranga
What you need to know: Tauranga is on the north coast, and the city is dotted with so many bays that you’re pretty much always near the water. It’s especially known for Mount Maunganui, which rewards hikers with a breathtaking vista over the city and sea.
Top highlights: Hike up Mount Maunganui, have fun at the Waimarino Adventure Park, and go swimming with dolphins.
Our hotel recommendation for Tauranga: The Tauranga on the Waterfront
