Backpacking New Zealand

Things to do in New Zealand

Activities available in New Zealand, including Hiking, Kayaking, Skiing and Danger Sports, ideal for Backpackers

It is no surprise that New Zealanders are fanatics when it comes to outdoor sports and exploits, they do live in one of the most beautiful and pristine country’s in the world which just happens to have a wealth of adventurous activities on offer. The Backpacking community love these activities too.

Everyone knows that New Zealand is the home to the audacious ‘Bungee jumping’ craze that burst on the scene in the nineties, but there is plenty more to tantalise your adrenaline.

Queenstown is known throughout the world as the ‘adrenaline’ capital of the world with most activities on offer. It is also a magnet for Backpackers.

Bungee Jumping is the most popular activity with many companies offering visitors the chance to fall from a great height and then bounce around. Costs vary according to company and location but the average is NZ$100. Bungee jumping is available through out the country, but most people take part whilst in Queenstown though it is also on offer in Taupo and Christchurch.

Backpacking around the pristine landscapes of New Zealand is another popular activity for locals and visitors alike, with many trails ranging from easy day hikes to week long treks across difficult terrain.

Opportunities to go Tramping, as it is known locally, are everywhere with some of the most famous paths going through the Bay of Islands, Abel Tasman National Park and Fiordland National Park.

The smaller trails can be tackled quite easily with just a map, though the longer treks and the hikes of a more difficult nature should not be attempted alone. Even experienced walkers will find some of the most difficult paths in the world here and will need to hire a local guide.

Skiing and Snowboarding is another favourite with travellers, with commercial ski slopes all over the country. It may not be a budget activity, but if you are travelling all this way, it would be a waste to not take part just so you could say you saved a few cents. Resorts include Whaka Papa, Turoa, Tukino and Maganui Ski area in the North Island and Coronet peak, The Remarkables, Treble cove and Cardona in the South Island.

Heli-skiing is also available in some places on the South Island, but maybe that would be a bit beyond the budget of a backpacker!

Rafting is a good chance to get wet and wild on New Zealand’s rivers with the Rangitata River near Canterbury and the Kawarau River near Queenstown some of the favourite spots. Trips cost between NZ$85 and NZ$150 for a few hours, though some companies have half day excursions as well.

Sea Kayaking around the Bay of Islands is also very popular with the views from the kayak absolutely amazing. There are a few other places to get into Sea Kayaking, but the Bay of Islands is the traveller’s favourite. Excursions range from NZ$70 to NZ$100 in price.

Skydiving is one of the biggest adrenaline rushes you could get and although at NZ$250 for the privilege it is quite expensive, the thrill is worth every cent! Skydiving is becoming more and more accessible with firms in Taupo, Rotoroa, Christchurch and Queenstown offering Tandem skydives.

Surfing is a favourite pastime all over the world and although it is not on the level of nearby Australia, it is still very popular. The best places for surfers are Matakana Island and Muriwai near Auckland on the North Island and Dunedin, Kaikoura and Greymouth on the South Island.

A great way to explore the great outdoors of New Zealand is on a Horse riding tour. These can range from a half day to a multi day tour and can take in some of the wonderful pristine countryside. Some of the major centres for horse riding tours include Kaikoura, Queenstown and Taupo.

You can have a really great adventure holiday in New Zealand, giving you a World Travel experience of a lifetime.

More.....

Before you leave for New Zealand

Things to do in New Zealand

Places not to miss in New Zealand

How to budget and costs whilst in New Zealand

Accommodation in New Zealand

Getting around New Zealand

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