It's easy to take your own backyard for granted and dream about travelling abroad, but sometimes we forget just how beautiful our own country is. More picturesque than a postcard, the natural landscapes and awe-inspiring mountains, coves and springs leave no shortage of magical places to visit in New Zealand. We've put together our absolute favourite 7 places, and we'd love to hear of yours too.
Image via @johanlolos
1. Mt Ngauruhoe
If you've ever watched Lord of the Rings, you'll recognise this infamous (active!) stratovolcano as Mount Doom. It last erupted in 1974, and these days is now open for climbers to climb and explore. In winter, the snow-capped peak is unmissable, and provides one of the most perfect Insta-worthy snaps in NZ.
Image via @ladzinski
2. Lake Matheson
Known for its calm water, incredible reflection and view of snow-capped mountain peaks, this is a must visit for any NZ traveller. Right near Fox Glacier, the waters of Lake Matheson are dark brown (caused by the leeching of organic matter from the surrounding native forest floor), making the surface as clear as a mirror.
Image via @thekiwifrog
3. Hooker Valley, Mount Cook
Mount Cook National Park is easily one of the most magical places in the entire world. A rugged landscape with ice and rock, the majestic mountains and gleaming glaciers will have you taking photos everywhere you look.
Image via @shaun_jeffers
4. Waitomo Gloworm Caves
From floor to ceiling, this incredible set of caves are illuminated by the glowworm species, Arachnocampa luminosa, that are found only in New Zealand. They're the size of mosquitos, yet together they light up these caves like nothing you've ever seen before.
Image via @joethommas
5. Hobbiton, Matamata
We apologise for the cliche, but our office is filled with LOTR fans and we just had to include Hobbiton. For those unfamiliar, Hobbiton is where the Lord of the Rings trilogy was partially filmed, and offers a magical glimpse into the imagination of any fan.
Image via @hilvees
6. Lake Pukaki
This incredible glacial lake has become famous for its milky blue colour, and as the foreground to Mount Cook. The best part? It really is this blue in real life.
Image via @talman
7. Omanawa Falls
Also known as Secret Falls, this 35 metre plunge waterfall is just a 30 minute drive fromTauranga. It can be a difficult walk down to the falls, and we advise not taking the closed track.
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