Nature and Outdoors

Wellington's dramatic landscape offers unparalleled outdoor adventures. Sitting between rolling hills and a stunning harbour, the city boasts a network of picture-perfect trails for hiking and biking. Find breathtaking views at every turn, including one of New Zealand's Great Rides — the Remutaka Cycle Trail. From the iconic red rocks along the rugged coastline to the lush greenery of Zealandia, a world-class eco-sanctuary, nature is never far or visit Wellington Zoo. If you're after a leisurely stroll or an adrenaline-pumping adventure, Wellington's natural beauty provides the perfect backdrop for unforgettable experiences.

Wairarapa's a bit wild, from its rugged coastline to the bush-clad Tararua ranges. Our diverse nature experiences are close together and can be epic or bite-sized.  We’re an official Dark Sky Reserve meaning our night sky is among the best in the world to view the star filled skies. Wairarapa's proximity to Wellington is a point of difference  – our Reserve isn’t off the beaten track and arguably, is the world’s most accessible of the world’s 21 Dark Sky Reserves. Our tourism businesses help you experience our skies, with fascinating guided tours.

This marine playground offers some of the world’s best boating and diving, fishing, eco-tours, scenic native bush walks and lodges.

Experience wildlife up close and immerse yourself in its natural habitat by paddling in a kayak, cruising on a boat or hitting the many walking or cycling trails. Marlborough has a number of predator free, island sanctuaries to explore and plenty of bird & marine life spotting to do along the way.

Hawke's Bay's sweeping 360km of coastline offer ample opportunity to surf, swim, fish or simply explore. The 200km-long Hawke’s Bay Trails is a network of easy-riding cycle trails linking tasty stops with stunning coastal and rural landscapes, and is one of New Zealand's official Great Rides.

Venture a little further to discover stunning walks, incredible golf courses, and scenic icons including Lake Waikaremoana, Te Mata Peak and Cape Kidnappers - home of the world’s largest accessible Gannet colony.  

From mountain peaks to black sand beaches – Taranaki is a mecca for outdoor enthusiasts. Taranaki Maunga stands at the heart of the region, surrounded by over 200km of epic tracks and trails. Wander the magical Goblin Forest, cross the breath-taking Manganui Gorge Bridge, or capture the iconic mirror-like reflection at Pouākai Tarn. Chase waterfalls, explore world-class gardens, hunt waves along Surf Highway 45, set off with Chaddy’s Charters for wildlife encounters around the Sugar Loaf Islands, or journey the legendary Forgotten World Highway for an adventure like no other.

Abel Tasman National Park is the jewel-in-the-crown with golden sandy beaches and turquoise blue waters. Enjoy easy walking year-round, plus the comfort of central heated lodges. Meanwhile, take a short trip to the alpine vistas of Nelson Lakes or the untracked wilderness of Kahurangi.

With IMBA Gold-rated status - one of only six in the world, Nelson Tasman offers 400km of trails and several mountain bike parks close to Nelson City. Take on the Coppermine Trail, the iconic Heaphy Track (open 1 May – 30 Nov), or the world-renowned backcountry of the Old Ghost Road.

Savour a relaxed journey along Tasman's Great Taste Trail, and enjoy easy biking on a scenic loop along a gleaming coastline and through charming countryside.

Whanganui’s outdoors are refreshingly accessible — a place where river, beach, and bush adventures are all just moments away. The iconic Whanganui River, known as Te Awa Tupua, was granted legal personhood in 2017 — a world-first that reflects its deep cultural significance to Whanganui iwi. Whether you’re exploring the river by canoe, walking coastal black sand beaches, or unwinding in a remote retreat, Whanganui offers a rich blend of nature, culture, and adventure all within easy reach.

With five and six-star gardens of national and international significance covering the region, along with cycling, mountain biking and walks through lush native bush filled with native birdsong, the outdoors in Manawatū is your playground. With dramatic landscapes sweeping from mountains to sea, Manawatū is a nature lover's paradise.

Explore the rugged west coast beaches, discover the magnificent geographical marvel of Te Āpiti - Manawatū Gorge, or head to the tussock-topped Ruahine ranges with jaw dropping views along the way and a spectacular sunset or sunrise rewarding you at the top.