10 reasons to visit New Zealand in 2016

From winter to summer, spring to autumn, there’s always plenty going on in New Zealand. Whether you want to pedal or peruse, cheer or clap, there’s sure to be an activity, event or location in New Zealand for you.

1. Get a kick out of watching rugby

Witness the winners of the Rugby World Cup – the New Zealand national men's rugby team, popularly known as the All Blacks, up against Wales in Auckland in June, and against South Africa in Christchurch and The Pumas (Argentina) in Hamilton in September. 

Not forgetting, the Bledisloe Cup in Wellington in September.

2. Have a taste of Christchurch’s burgeoning hospitality scene

Christchurch has a host of new restaurants, led by the likes of the fine diner Roots in Lyttelton, craft brewer Dux Central in the CBD, cafes such as C1-Espresso in a 1930s bank building, and Supreme Supreme in an artfully reworked former Chinese restaurant. 

3. Stay at a remarkable new luxury lodge

Helena Bay, one of the most beautiful bays along a coastline full of breath-taking, sheltered sandy coves, will see the opening of three exclusive villas right on the water. 

 The new luxury lodge complex includes a Turkish hammam, a gym and a swimming pool that blends seamlessly with the scenic surrounds. 

4.  Get close to local wildlife at Wellington Zoo

Wellington Zoo has undergone a $6 million expansion and the new “Meet the Locals” celebrates New Zealand’s diverse flora and fauna.

Designed around four areas, Penguin Point is a mini wild-west south coast where endangered korora (little blue penguins) can be seen while Pohutukawa Farm is home to cute kunekune pigs, sheep, rabbits, guinea pigs and chickens. A third section features native bush and precious ecosystems while the fourth section is Conservation Connection. 

5. Run a marathon in a natural wonderland

The inaugural Hawke’s Bay International Marathon on 14 May 2016 will include a full marathon, half marathon, 10km run and a kids’ course. Follow roads and bike trails before making your way through private vineyards and olive groves with the finish line for all events at the gorgeous Sileni Estates Winery.

6. Taste some of New Zealand’s craft beers

Breweries are opening the length of the country, many of them with cellar doors and taprooms. In Wellington, check out cult brewer Garage Project’s new bar across the road from the brewery, GP 91 Aro; in Christchurch, drop by Three Boys Brewery. The legendary Emerson’s, meanwhile, opens its new brewery in Dunedin this year.

7. Visit Peter Jackson’s Great Trench Experience

Lord of the Rings director Sir Peter Jackson has created a world class World War One experience at Wellington’s Dominion Museum. Journey through the conflict, year by year, meeting the challenges faced by the soldiers. The museum exhibition opened in 2015 but the Great Trench Experience, due to open this year, promises an even more chilling multi-sensory experience. 

8. Challenge yourself at Lake Taupo

Take on the 40th anniversary Lake Taupo Challenge in November (with 8000 other cyclists) or just take on a small section of the 160km circumference, to experience some of New Zealand’s most beautiful cycling.

This year-round cycle heaven has facilities for cycle hire and sherpa services.

9. Wine and dine on Waiheke Island

Waiheke Island has steep hills and craggy cliffs running down to white sand beaches, all of which produces some superb wine and fabulous food.

The wineries are currently pouring 2013 syrahs, a vintage considered among the island’s best. Head to Casita Miro for a rustic, Spanish-inspired lunch followed by a swim at Onetangi, and Cable Bay for an upscale dinner – the view back to Auckland is mesmerising. 

10. Go stargazing in the world’s clearest skies

Behold star-studded skies at the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve, a 4300 sq km area around Tekapo in the Canterbury district of the South Island. Visit Mt John Observatory for an unforgettable night sky tour.

If you are lucky, you may witness the Southern Lights (Aurora Australis) without light pollution. Be sure to dress warmly as it can get very nippy, especially in winter.

Share this post