Top 5: Ecotourism Destinations in New Zealand

Paihia Dives

Don’t leave New Zealand without learning how to scuba dive. Located in the Bay of Islands, you’ll see the a region of the East Australian Current which brings tropical fish like the Lord Howe Coralfish and Gold Ribbon Grouper swimming by your nose.

Rainbow Springs, New Zealand © Jaweljawel | Dreamstime

Rainbow Springs

New Zealand’s largest and most successful kiwi conservation center is definitely worth a visit. While the kiwi is their main attraction, the 22-acre park is home to a variety of New Zealand’s native animals like tuatara, kea and wild trout. You can also experience The Big Splash, one of their many free-flight aviaries.

Waimangu Volcanic Valley

A walk through this geothermal park is an eco-experience you won’t want to miss. It’s a protected scenic reserve and wildlife refuge, set in the pristine New Zealand bush and home to rare botany and geothermal crater lakes.

Mt. John Observatory near Lake Tekapo © Zcello | Dreamstime

Earth & Sky Observatory

One of New Zealand’s most famous observatories is located near Lake Tekapo in the heart of the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve. You can take a tour at twilight or after the sun goes down, and observe the night sky like you’ve never seen it before.

Waitomo Glowworm Caves © Donnie Ray Jones | Flickr

Waitomo Glowworm Caves

The glow worm is unique to New Zealand. Thousands of these little creatures gather in underground caverns in a radiant display, and Waitomo brings you on a boat ride to see them at their Glowworm Grotto.

© 2il org | Flickr