These 9 best views in New Zealand will leave you speechless
New Zealand is a country full of breathtaking views. Or let´s rather just put it that way: wherever you lay your eyes on in that country, you will most likely see a beautiful view. From stunning beaches with clear blue water to impressive mountain views – the list could go on endlessly. And yet, there are few places that seem to stand out. But what are the best views in New Zealand that you need to know about? Which views should you absolutely not miss when travelling around the country?
Number 1 of the best views in New Zealand: The beautiful mountain scenery from the summit of Ben Lomond, Queenstown
Of course, one of the absolute highlights when it comes to beautiful views is the area of Queenstown. Queenstown is located on the South Island and known for the stunning mountain scenery. If you want to get an impressive overview over the area and get lost in the alpine side of New Zealand, you should hike the summit of Ben Lomond.
Ben Lomond is a hike you can easily do from Queenstown. Well, easy might not be the right word to use here. The whole journey takes you about 8 hours, but before you already cancel it in your mind: it is more than worth it. From the top, you can overlook the whole Otago area around Queenstown, the lake Wakatipu and the other summits. For hiking and outdoor lovers, Ben Lomond might even be the best view to get in all of New Zealand.
And you know what´s even better? Compared to the famous hike to Roy´s Peak, Ben Lomond is more or less a remote hike which is not busy at all. This means, you will be able to enjoy the beautiful landscape and the view (almost) all by yourself. The rock formation at the summit really is impressive and you will not get enough. And that for sure is a promise!
The most scenic road in all of New Zealand – the road to Mount Cook National Park
This place is well known on the list of the best views in New Zealand. The Mount Cook National Park itself is incredible to see but the real highlight awaits you before even entering the National Park. It is the road to Mount Cook which leaves most travellers speechless. For some, this might even be among the most scenic routes worldwide. But what makes the road so special?
First, you got the view of Mount Cook and its impressive summit while driving. And second, you are driving along the beautiful blue Lake Pukaki. The road leads along the shore all the time. Yes, you might need to pinch yourself while driving through the landscape.
The combination of both the mountains, the lake and the feeling of endless freedom make this place one of the best views in New Zealand. And for sure, you cannot miss it while road tripping through the country.
The breathtaking view over Lake Wanaka from the top of Roy´ s Peak
Welcome to one of the most popular views in all of New Zealand. Yes, this is not only among the most popular but as well among the best views in New Zealand. The hike to the summit of Roy´s Peak might be the number 1 hike to do when travelling the country. It is well known all over social media and for the (not so) unique picture, you even need to queue on the mountain.
But do not worry. You can still enjoy the beautiful view without standing in a queue. Roy´s Peak is located directly at the Lake Wanaka on the South Island of New Zealand. The hike up and down the mountain takes approximately 5-6 hours, depending on your speed and fitness. Yes, this really is a tough hike and even sporty travellers will come to their limits. Sounds like an overestimation to you? Well, you will see for yourself.
But no matter how hard the climb is, the view is absolutely worth it. Make sure to hike up to the very top and not stop at the main photo spot. Overlooking the Lake Wanaka and the other mountains is absolutely breathtaking. Get ready for one of the best views in New Zealand.
A misty atmosphere in the Milford Sound
And next on the list of the best views in New Zealand is the Milford Sound. The Milford Sound is located on the South Island, close to Queenstown and can be done on a day trip. In the middle of the beautiful Fiordland National Park, the Milford Sound is a highlight on the South Island.
Especially on a rainy and foggy day, you will get some of the best views of the fiord. The waterfalls and the mountains framing the fiord make it even more special. It is most popular to explore the Milford Sound on a boat. You can either book a tour or rent some kayaks to enjoy the stunning view. Another option is to fly in to Milford Sound from Queenstown or Wanaka and witness the spectacle of New Zealand´s nature from above. Whatever experience you might choose, make sure to put in on your list and do not miss in while travelling the country.
The picturesque Marlborough Sound with the best views of the hidden bays and valleys
Let´s continue with the sounds in New Zealand. The Marlborough Sound is located on the very top of the South Island and can already be experienced on the ferry from the North to the South Island. If you want to get even better views and get closer to the sound, you should visit the area after arriving on the South Island.
The Marlborough Sound is famous for many of the best views of New Zealand. From hidden bays and beaches with the clearest water you´ve seen to deep river valleys and countless islands. The Marlborough Sound could not be more diverse and beautiful. Of course, it needs to be on the list of the best views in New Zealand you need to see.
Again, you can explore the area by boat or kayak. For beach and adventure lovers, these views are really outstanding. Plus, the Marlborough area has some of the best wines of the South Island – pretty convincing, isn´t it?
The paradise island Urupukapuka in the Bay of Islands, Northland
Are you ready for the prettiest island in all of New Zealand? If you have been failing to find paradise on your travels, this might be it. The Urupukapuka island is located in the middle of the beautiful Bay of Islands, in the North of the country. While there are quite a few stunning islands, the Urupukapuka island is best to explore and get the best views in New Zealand. But how do you reach the island?
The Urupukapuka Island can only be reached by boat. There are no hotels or cars on the island, only nature wherever you look. From Paihia, the main village in the Bay of Islands, you can book a boat ticket plus return for the day. This allows you to spend the whole day on the island and walk around.
No matter, if you love to hike and wander around or simply relax by the beach, the Urupukapuka Island has it all. The best views can be found on the hills overlooking the ocean or in some of the small and remote bays. You can as well spend the day and follow the few treks leading you around the island.
But be prepared to fall endlessly in love with New Zealand and the Bay of Islands. If you are looking for some of the best views in New Zealand, this is the place to be.
The top of Mount Maunganui, Tauranga – one of the best views in New Zealand for sunrise
Ready for a beautiful sunrise? Of course, a sunrise always offers great views. But one of the most beautiful spots to watch the first hours of the day in New Zealand is the Mount Maunganui in Tauranga on the East Coast.
The hike takes about 30-45 minutes, which is fairly easy to do in the early morning. Seeing the sunrise and the morning atmosphere over Tauranga is a special moment for your own New Zealand bucketlist.
The country roads between the mountains of Arthur ´s Pass
Some of the best views in New Zealand can be found on the road. That´s one of the many reasons why a road trip is basically the best thing to do in the country. One of the most scenic routes is the Arthur´s Pass, the highest pass in the Southern Alps. Most travellers start the pass from Christchurch.
What makes the route so special are the mountain views and the beautiful scenery you are driving through. You can hike to a waterfall or stop by the side of the road to really enjoy the views – yes, they are among the best views in New Zealand.
If you need more reasons to be convinced about going on a road trip in New Zealand, click here.
The incredible night sky over New Zealand – the best views during the night
And last but not least, one of the best views of New Zealand can be seen during the night. The night sky really is outstanding in the country. Due to the low population and the many country areas, you will get to see an incredibly clear night sky. Especially if you spend a night away from a city, the sky will leave you speechless.
In places, such as the Lake Tekapo, there are special star gazing events where you can learn more about New Zealand´s night sky. This might really top any view of the night sky you´ve seen. So do not forget to take a look outside before going to sleep!
