Some of us are programmed to explore, others are programmed to dream. Regardless of which category you fall into, there is a whole world out there just waiting to be discovered. Her.ie’s new weekly travel guide brings you to some of the most inspiring places in the world and dares you to turn those dreams into an adventure of a lifetime. As the saying goes, ‘home is where your passport is’ – so where will your passport end up next? ___________________________________________ The home of the world-famous Haka and the land of adventure, New Zealand has something for everyone. From the top of the North Island to the lowest point of the South Island there are breath-taking sights, hidden gems and wonderful locals at every step. With so much to do, you will need to take your time travelling through New Zealand – here are just a few of our favourite spots. Franz Josef The Franz Josef or Fox Glacier is located on the South Island and is a must-visit on a trip to New Zealand. Stunning surroundings and breath-taking views, taking a guided tour over the glaciers is worth every penny. Handy hint: If you fancy doing a sky dive on your trip, do it here as the view will be absolutely amazing. Lake Taupo A beautiful spot for a picnic, Lake Taupo is also one of the other most popular places to do a skydive, bungy or white water rafting. Handy hint: Bring some lunch time snacks and take a leisurely stroll around. Queenstown Widely recognized as the party town of the South Island, Queenstown offers something for everyone. Aside from the brilliant nightlife though, you can go bungy jumping, river rafting, hiking and a number of other adventure sports. You can also get your drinks from cute little teapots in the World Bar. Handy hint: Ferg burger is the best burger in New Zealand, bar none. Meet the locals Doing a culture tour is a definite must in New Zealand. Up in Rotorua on the North Island there are some fantastic tours available where you can soak up the Maori culture, visit an authentic Maori village and learn some of the crafts. Handy hint: Pay a visit to the thermal pools and mud baths – well worth a stop! Mmm… wine Stopping off in some of New Zealand’s famous vineyards is a definite for any wine lovers out there. New Zealand is famous the world over for Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc so make sure to take a trip down the coast to Marlborough and drop in on the local winegrowers. Handy hint: There is no handy hint for this one apart from sample as much as you can! Milford Sound If you still have time after all of that, then book a trip through Milford Sound from the South Island. It has dramatic scenery including snow-capped mountains, cascading waterfalls and breath-taking fiords. Handy hint: Often known as the ‘Eighth Wonder of the World’ you can also take a kayak out and get lost in the stunning scenery. Whale watching Head to Kaikoura two hours north of Christchurch where you can do a spot of whale watching or go snorkelling with seals. Handy hint: If you like seafood, make sure to have lunch or dinner here – the local cuisine is out of this world. Follow the Lord of the Rings Whether you are a fan of the movie or not, following the trail of the main spots where Lord of the Rings was filmed is great fun. You can take a tour from Wellington, or head to Mount Doom for a day-long hike with some amazing views. Handy hint: Bring good runners for New Zealand, you will be doing a lot of walking. Waitomo Caves If you fancy something a little bit different, explore Waitomo caves which combine abseiling and floating on a tube. Handy hint: You can take a boat trip to the caves and let the glow worms light your way. Do a Great Walk New Zealand, and the South Island in particular, is famous for its stunning walks. If you fancy a day of adventure, you could take the Abel Tasman Coastal track, Milford track, Routeburn track, Heaphy track, Kepler track and Rakiura track. Handy hint: Make a stop off in Abel Tasman National Park for more stunning scenery. Take the train The TranzAlpine train has been voted one of the best rail journeys in the world and it’s no surprise as it boasts breathtaking scenery at every turn. Handy hint: Savour every moment on this journey as it’s absolutely awe-inspiring. Hit the water You can’t leave New Zealand without doing some white-water rafting. There are a number of different places throughout to enjoy the thrills of the sport. Handy hint: Have a strong team with you – those rapids are pretty hectic! Wellington Hit the capital of New Zealand for some relaxation and a visit to New Zealand’s National Museum, Te Papa. Handy hint: Relax and unwind in Wellington, with good restaurants and nightlife. It is also famous for its coffee so be sure to grab a cup. Head for heights If you think you’ve the head for heights then why not try the Auckland Harbour Bridge climb which takes you up and over the world-famous bridge. You can also do a bungy off the bridge too. Handy hint: Leave eating your lunch until after the climb! Lake Wanaka Stunning is the only word to describe Lake Wanaka and it’s definitely worth a stop on your way through the South Island. Handy hint: Make a pit stop into Puzzling World – full of fun and quirky things.