As New Zealand starts heading toward their winter months, no doubt you’ll be looking for some activities to heat you up! No matter where in the country you’re travelling to, YHA New Zealand have some suggestions to get your adrenaline pumping.
At the top of the country, Northland is considered the best place in the country to go diving; check out the Poor Knights Islands to chance an encounter with rays (both underwater and on land with the area’s enviable sunshine hours).
Waitomo takes you not only into the water but also underground with an excellent opportunity to try black water rafting amidst thousands of glow worms. Continue the water-based trend with canyoning in
Queenstown or jet-boating in
Hanmer Springs.
The many volcanoes that dot the country provide plenty of chances for excitement. Stay at
YHA Rotorua for a range of geothermal experiences, many in the free Kuirau Park next door, then take your chances on varying grades of white water rafting in the area. If you prefer your geothermal activity a little less warm, try skiing or boarding on a volcano at Mt Ruapehu.
If wheels are your thing, there are
mountain biking thrills to be had in
Picton, Rotorua, and
Nelson; alternatively, you can take to the air and experience skydiving, hang gliding, hot air ballooning, or all of the above.
We’ve picked a selection of our favourite locations to try these
heart-pumping activities, but there’s more than one spot in New Zealand that has these babies on offer. This means you never have to fear if New Zealand’s changeable weather threatens your plans. We’ve got suggestions that range from mild to wild to suit your taste so you can
get a thrill at any speed. Best of all, YHA members qualify for
discounts on a wide range of activities all through the country, which keeps it a little lighter on your wallet too. Stay with YHA throughout New Zealand for quality budget accommodation in epic destinations.
