New Zealand is home to more than just beautiful landscapes and hobbits. A melting pot of different cultures, its blend of European, Pacific Islander, and indigenous Māori heritage give the island its unique charm. To get a real sense of the colonial, geographic, and indigenous forces that have shaped this city, be sure to check out the Auckland Museum, located in the heart of the city. Nature lovers might find themselves more drawn to the volcanoes, beaches, and caves nearby.

The Bay of Islands is a sweeping sub-region of northern New Zealand. The enormous inlet holds 144 islands and dozens of cities and towns, each more charming than the last. Breathtaking waterfalls, beautiful rainforests, and clear waters teeming with marine life await, and the region also has a fascinating history marked by clashes between the colonists and the region’s indigenous Māori people.

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New Plymouth is the major city of the Taranaki Region on the west coast of the North Island of New Zealand. Notable features are the botanic gardens, the 11 km Coastal Walkway alongside the Tasman Sea, the Len Lye-designed 45-metre-tall artwork known as the Wind Wand, Paritutu Rock, and views of Mount Taranaki/Egmont.

Nelson is a city of 60,000 on New Zealand's South Island and is named after Admiral Horatio Nelson. The area offers many parks, museums and historic buildings.

Picton is a large port town in the Marlborough region which is situated North East of the South Island of New Zealand. Tourism in Picton and the surrounding area is very much focused on wildlife and the local landscape. Picton is an idea base for exploring the Marlborough Sound. There are numerous day cruises to areas such as Lochmara, where guests can expect to find bushwalks, wildlife as well as traditional Kiwi culture Tourists are advised to visit the Whaling Museum and the restored ship 'Edwin Fox' which is located in the port of Pictons.

Named for the Maori word for “long harbor,” Akaroa is a charming harbor town located about an hour outside of Christchurch. The only French settlement in New Zealand, the town is a mishmash of French, English, and Maori culture. Stroll through the historic town center and take in the quaint European architecture, or explore the serene nature both on and offshore. The harbor is home to a resident population of Hector’s dolphins, the smallest and rarest dolphins in the world, and shorebirds and penguins abound.

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Dunedin is a quirky university town located on the south island of New Zealand. Its colorful downtown, full of cute cafes and elaborate street art, make it a popular destination for young people, while its windswept beaches and rolling hills delight nature lovers and solitude seekers of all ages. Its thriving art scene make it a great place for shopping, and the handmade jewelry, homeware, and local art make great souvenirs as well as gifts.