What is New Zealand Famous For?
If you’re wondering, “What is New Zealand famous for,” you’ve come to the right place. This captivating country nestled in the southwestern Pacific Ocean is renowned for a variety of things, from enchanting landscapes to adrenaline-pumping adventures. However, New Zealand is famous for many things, and in this story, we expose 40 things New Zealand is known for! So, let’s dive in and find out what makes this remarkable nation truly special as we answer your question, “What is New Zealand known for and famous for.”
Table of Contents
What is New Zealand Famous For?
Awe-Inspiring Landscapes
One thing that everyone around the world knows about New Zealand is the awe-inspiring landscapes are nothing short of breathtaking.
The country is well-known for its diverse and picturesque scenery, with each region boasting its own unique charm. From the rolling green hills of the North Island to the majestic Southern Alps of the South Island, there’s no shortage of natural wonders to explore.
Thrilling Adventures
New Zealand is an adventure lover’s paradise, offering a plethora of thrilling activities that get your adrenaline pumping.
New Zealand is famous for its bungee jumping experiences, and daredevils flock to Queenstown to take the plunge from the historic Kawarau Bridge or the exhilarating Nevis Bungy, one of the highest in the world.
Besides that, there is jetboating, heli-hiking, skydiving, paragliding, ziplining, skiing, canyoning, off-road driving, and so much more.
The Haka
The haka is a powerful Maori ceremonial dance that holds a significant place in New Zealand’s cultural heritage. Originally performed by Maori warriors as a war dance, it combines rhythmic movements, chanting, and fierce expressions to convey emotions of pride, strength, and unity.
The haka is often performed by the national rugby team, the All Blacks, before matches. It symbolizes Maori identity, showcasing the rich traditions and warrior spirit deeply rooted in New Zealand’s culture.
Maori Culture and Traditions
New Zealand is also known for its rich Maori culture and traditions. The indigenous Maori people have a vibrant heritage that is deeply intertwined with the country’s identity.
From traditional Maori greetings like the hongi (pressing noses) to the captivating haka, their customs and rituals add a unique dimension to New Zealand’s cultural landscape.
You can also explore wood and jade carvings, beautiful woven garments, and other Maori art and crafts, which showcase the Maori people’s exceptional craftsmanship.
Guided tours are available around the country that teach you about Maori culture and traditions. You can even experience a traditional hangi feast, where food is cooked in an underground oven.
Queenstown
Ask a backpacker, “What is New Zealand famous for?” and they will no doubt tell you Queenstown.
Queenstown, New Zealand, best known for being the “Adventure Capital of New Zealand,” is an exhilarating destination combining stunning natural beauty & adrenaline-fueled experiences.
Nestled on the shores of Lake Wakatipu and surrounded by majestic mountains, Queenstown NZ is famous for offering a perfect playground for thrill-seekers with its plethora of heart-pumping activities, including bungee jumping, skydiving, jet boating, and skiing.
But Queenstown is not just for adrenaline junkies; it also exudes a charming atmosphere with its picturesque streets adorned with inviting cafes, restaurants, and boutique shops.
Sheep
New Zealand’s sheep population is legendary worldwide because there are more sheep in New Zealand than people. It has resulted in many jokes about people interacting with New Zealand’s sheep.
Sheep farming has played a significant role in New Zealand’s history and economy, and encountering these woolly icons in the country’s pastoral landscapes is a charming part of the rural experience.
Exquisite Wines
When you ask What is New Zealand Famous For, we can’t go past mentioning the well-deserved reputation New Zealand has earned for its world-class wines, particularly Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Noir.
The country’s unique climate and fertile soils create the perfect conditions for producing exceptional wine varieties that are recognized globally.
You can take wine tours and indulge your senses savouring the aromatic flavours of internationally acclaimed wines with gorgeous vineyard views.
In particular, South Island’s Marlborough region has vineyards set in stunning locations.
The Kiwi Fruit
Kiwi fruit is delicious and nutritious and is popular worldwide. Its name is inspired by New Zealand’s national bird, the kiwi.
Interestingly, the fruit’s origins are in China. However, New Zealand is renowned for producing high-quality kiwi fruit, particularly the green variety with its distinctive fuzzy brown skin and vibrant green flesh.
The Food
New Zealand is also acclaimed for Manuka honey and the freshest seafood caught from the pristine waters surrounding the islands.
Actually, the delicious seafood is one of the things we love the most about New Zealand. You will often find us travelling around the countryside in pursuit of discovering the tastiest seafood offerings available.
Additionally, the country’s culinary offerings are sure to tantalize your taste buds with food you have never eaten before.
Experience the flavours of a traditional Maori hangi feast, and treat yourself to iconic Kiwi delicacies like pavlova, pies, and whitebait fritters.
Earthquakes and Volcanoes
New Zealand’s location on the tectonic plate boundaries means it experiences geological activity, including earthquakes and volcanoes.
While New Zealand is famous for this geological activity, many people don’t know that New Zealand experiences over 20,000 earthquakes every year! But don’t worry, only 100-150 are significant enough to be felt.
Geothermal Activity and Hot Springs
New Zealand is a land of geothermal wonders, thanks to its position on the Pacific Ring of Fire.
On the North Island, Rotorua is famous for its geothermal activity, where you can witness bubbling mud pools, erupting geysers and thermal pools.
But the South Island also boasts its share of hot springs and geothermal areas, providing a unique opportunity to relax and rejuvenate in nature’s warm embrace.
Read Next: 10 Best South Island Weekend Getaways from Christchurch.
Hobbiton and Lord of the Rings
New Zealand is renowned worldwide as the ultimate destination for fans of J.R.R. Tolkien’s “Lord of the Rings” and “The Hobbit.”
When you ask anyone, What is New Zealand famous for? They will most likely say Hobbiton and the Lord of the Rings.
In the heart of the country’s North Island lies Hobbiton, a captivating real-life film set that transports visitors into the magical realm of Middle-earth.
In addition to Hobbiton, the South Island of New Zealand is home to breathtaking filming locations from the “Lord of the Rings” and “The Hobbit” movies. These stunning landscapes have become popular tourist hotspots, drawing fans and travellers alike.
You can travel to places like the ethereal landscapes of Queenstown, the enchanting forests of Fiordland National Park, and Mount Sunday and immerse yourself in the epic world of Middle-earth while experiencing the awe-inspiring natural beauty of the South Island.
New Zealand is Best Known for Rugby
New Zealanders have a strong sporting culture, and the country has made a name for itself in various sports on the international stage.
Rugby holds a special place in the hearts of New Zealanders, and the national rugby team, the All Blacks, is revered worldwide.
Their haka performance before each match is an awe-inspiring display of Maori tradition and warrior spirit and an outstanding cultural thing New Zealand is famous for.
Cricket
Cricket holds a special place in the hearts of New Zealanders and is a popular sport in the country.
The national cricket team, the Black Caps, has achieved significant success on the international stage.
Sailing
New Zealand is known for its sailing achievements. The country has a proud history in the America’s Cup, with multiple victories to its name.
The picturesque harbours and coastal landscapes provide the perfect backdrop for sailing enthusiasts to take to the waters and enjoy the thrill of this beloved sport.
Olympic Success
One thing that many sports enthusiasts may know when you ask “What is New Zealand famous for?” is that New Zealand has a proud history of success at the Olympic Games.
New Zealand athletes have clinched gold medals in multiple disciplines, showcasing their talent and dedication on the global stage.
Notable sports in which New Zealand has won gold medals at the Olympics include rowing, canoeing, sailing, and athletics, which showcase the nation’s talent and dedication on the global stage.
New Zealand’s Safe Wildlife
In the realm of creature encounters, New Zealand prides itself on being the land where nature won’t bite back! With no venomous snakes, poisonous spiders, or grizzly bears to worry about, you can explore this island paradise with carefree abandon.
Mind you, while New Zealand boasts a lack of dangerous creatures, it does have one pesky culprit to watch out for – the sandfly. These tiny winged flies love to bite, though it is avoided by wearing repellent.
Notable animals in New Zealand include playful seals, curious dolphins and a delightful mix of cheeky birds, all ready to steal your heart without any venomous tricks up their sleeves.
The Birds of New Zealand
New Zealand is famous for being a haven for bird enthusiasts, offering a rich diversity of avian species, including some rare and unique birds found nowhere else in the world.
The iconic kiwi, captures the imagination, while the curious weka and the endangered kakapo add to the country’s avian wonders.
While the kiwi is challenging to see in the wild, the weka, a flightless bird with an inquisitive and cheeky nature, delights visitors with its curious antics. We often hear many tourists exclaiming, “oh, look a kiwi!” They do look similar!
Additionally, New Zealand is home to the rare and endangered kakapo, the world’s heaviest parrot. With its vibrant green plumage and distinctive owl-like face, the kakapo is a true treasure of New Zealand’s wildlife.
Other unique bird species in New Zealand include the melodious tui, the mischievous kea, the graceful royal albatross and the elegant white heron.
The Kiwi
No article about what is NZ famous for would be complete without mentioning the Kiwi. One of the most celebrated animals in New Zealand, this flightless bird is an iconic symbol of the country’s unique wildlife.
While spotting a kiwi in the wild can be challenging, the South Island offers opportunities to observe these enchanting creatures.
One such place is the West Coast Wildlife Centre in Franz Josef, where you can see kiwis up close in their nocturnal enclosures and learn about ongoing conservation efforts.
For a more immersive experience, you can venture to Stewart Island/Rakiura, a remote island off the southern coast of the South Island. It is a sanctuary for Kiwis, and guided night tours are available where you can see (or hear) them in their natural habitat.
The Kea Bird
New Zealand is home to a unique and charismatic bird, the kea.
This playful and intelligent parrot is native to the South Island and is renowned for its mischievous and curious nature.
With its vibrant green plumage and distinctive orange-red underwing feathers, the kea stands out as one of the world’s most fascinating avian species.
The kea loves exploring and interacting with objects, and encountering a kea in the wild is a memorable experience.
Our own encounters with keas are alluring and endearing. In Milford Sound, we had a cute kea interacting with our vehicle.
Fjords
New Zealand’s South Island is renowned for its pristine fjords that cut through the dramatic coastal landscapes.
One of the most iconic natural landmarks in New Zealand is Fiordland National Park, home to the world-renowned Milford Sound.
With its towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and pristine waters, it’s no wonder this place has captured the hearts of many.
In addition to Milford Sound, you can also cruise the breathtaking Doubtful Sound and Dusky Sound, where towering cliffs plunge into deep, glassy waters.
The Lakes
New Zealand’s South Island is adorned with stunning lakes that showcase the country’s natural splendour.
These spectacular lakes, such as Lake Matheson, adorn travel brochures and Instagram and are one of the most recognised things New Zealand is famous for.
From the tranquil beauty of Lake Tekapo, with its turquoise waters and the iconic Church of the Good Shepherd, to the mirror-like reflections of Lake Wanaka, surrounded by snow-capped mountains, the lakes offer a peaceful retreat and picture-perfect moments.
The Down to Earth People!
What is New Zealand Best Known for? Kiwis, ofcourse!
New Zealanders, nicknamed Kiwis, are recognized for their warm and welcoming nature.
They are often described as friendly, down-to-earth, and approachable, making visitors feel right at home.
The people of New Zealand embrace the spirit of manaakitanga, a Maori word that encompasses hospitality, respect and generosity in care for others.
The country’s small population contributes to a strong sense of community and a laid-back lifestyle cherished by locals and visitors alike.
Famous New Zealanders
For numerous people, the question of What is New Zealand famous for, makes them think about celebrities. New Zealand has produced several internationally renowned individuals who’ve made an impact in various fields.
One of the most well-known New Zealanders is Sir Edmund Hillary, a mountaineer and explorer who became the first person to reach the summit of Mount Everest.
In addition to Sir Edmund Hillary, New Zealand has produced several other notable individuals who have achieved international recognition, such as Grammy-winning singer-songwriter Lorde, celebrated filmmaker Peter Jackson, legendary rugby player Richie McCaw and Academy Award-winning actor Russell Crowe.
First Votes for Women
New Zealand holds a significant place in history as the first self-governing country to grant women the right to vote.
In 1893, after years of dedicated advocacy, New Zealand passed the Electoral Act, allowing women to exercise their political voice.
This groundbreaking achievement marked a major milestone in the global suffrage movement and paved the way for gender equality.
The South Island
When it comes to the fame of New Zealand, the South Island plays a significant role in capturing the world’s attention.
Renowned for its majestic landscapes and awe-inspiring natural wonders, the South Island offers an unforgettable experience that truly defines what New Zealand is famous for.
The South Island is home to some of the most iconic and breathtaking landscapes in the world. From the majestic Southern Alps to its glorious coastline panoramas, glaciers and awe-inspiring natural wonders, this region boasts a multitude of natural wonders that leave visitors in awe.
Don’t just read about it!
Welcome to New Zealand South Island!
Start planning your travel bucket list now:
New Zealand South Island Bucket List – South Island Must Do
Primeval and Jurassic Wilderness
Of all the things New Zealand is known for, its primeval landscapes are among the most talked about.
When travelling overseas, we often meet people who are in awe of the landscapes!
New Zealand’s landscapes are often compared to scenes from the Jurassic era, with their lush ferns (including the iconic silver fern), majestic Nikau palms, and ancient old-growth rainforests.
Within the old-growth rainforests, you’ll discover a world of dense vegetation, ancient trees, moss-covered rocks, and glistening streams, adding a sense of exoticism and timelessness.
Beyond the rainforests, New Zealand’s landscapes boast majestic mountains that rise dramatically from the earth. These rugged peaks, some covered in snow year-round, provide a breathtaking backdrop to the already picturesque surroundings, adding a sense of grandeur and awe.
Exploring New Zealand’s Jurassic landscapes is like stepping into a prehistoric paradise.
Stargazing and Dark Sky Reserves
New Zealand’s pristine skies and limited light pollution make it a prime destination for stargazing.
The South Island, in particular, is known for its remarkable stargazing experiences.
The wonders of the night sky are one of the things we love the most about the South Island. We have travelled to one of New Zealand’s incredible Dark Sky Reserves, the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve, and the night sky is brilliant.
Additionally, there is a chance to see the southern lights, the Aurora Australis, dancing across the heavens. Though so far, this has eluded us. But stay tuned, as this miraculous event is on our travel bucket list.
Read Next – Romantic Getaways South Island New Zealand.
Skiing and Snowboarding
New Zealand’s South Island is a paradise for skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts. These ski fields attract snow sports enthusiasts from around the world, providing unforgettable experiences on the pristine snow-covered mountains of New Zealand amidst stunning alpine landscapes.
The South Island offers a range of world-class ski fields, including Coronet Peak, The Remarkables, Cardrona, and Treble Cone.
National Parks and Hiking
With its remarkable landscapes, New Zealand is home to numerous national parks that provide endless opportunities for hiking and outdoor adventures.
New Zealand’s national parks offer breathtaking trails through pristine forests, across rugged mountain ranges, and along spectacular coastal paths.
The South Island is particularly famous for its national parks, including Abel Tasman, Arthur’s Pass, and Mount Aspiring.
Waitomo Caves and Glowworm Caves
Venture on a guided tour into the underground wonders of the Waitomo Caves on the North Island.
Besides New Zealand’s world-renowned caves, there are many places in New Zealand’s South Island where you can witness glowworms illuminating dark caverns like a starry night sky.
These magical creatures create a captivating spectacle that will leave you in awe of nature’s extraordinary creations.
Zorbing
New Zealand is also known for introducing a unique and exhilarating adventure activity called zorbing.
Originating in Rotorua, this thrilling experience involves rolling downhill inside a giant, transparent inflatable ball.
Adrenaline junkies can choose from different types of zorbing, including wet or dry options.
Small Population and Lots of Space
One of the unique aspects of New Zealand is its small population and vast open spaces.
Whether you’re hiking in pristine national parks, venturing on a road trip along winding coastal roads, or seeking solace in the untouched wilderness or South Island’s best beaches, it’s not uncommon to find yourself as the only one there.
Road Trips
New Zealand is famous for its road trips. Travelling around New Zealand on a road trip is a quintessential New Zealand experience.
With well-maintained roads and breathtaking vistas around every corner, hitting the open road allows you to fully appreciate the country’s beauty at your own pace and discover hidden gems, picturesque towns, and stunning viewpoints.
Campervan and Freedom Camping
If you ask any traveller what is New Zealand famous for, they will most likely mention freedom camping and travel in a campervan.
New Zealand is renowned for its freedom camping options, which offer the ultimate in freedom and flexibility. These options allow you to park in designated areas and immerse yourself in nature.
Besides that, New Zealand has many campground options offering campervan-friendly infrastructure and facilities.
Dolphins and Whales
New Zealand is known for its dolphin and whale-watching experiences. The coastal waters are teeming with marine life, offering incredible opportunities for dolphin and whale encounters.
You can take a boat tour to view whales or join a dolphin-swimming excursion in places like Kaikoura. Witnessing these majestic creatures in their natural habitat is an unforgettable experience.
Train Trips
New Zealand’s train trips have been named the best in the world.
The TranzAlpine train, departing from Christchurch, traverses the Southern Alps to Greymouth. It offers breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks, deep gorges, and lush forests.
Additionally, The Coastal Pacific meanders along the East Coast offering an unforgettable train journey with stunning seaviews.
What is New Zealand Known For? New Zealand’s Iconic Ferry Trip
The breathtaking ferry trip between North and South Island is one of the standout experiences in New Zealand. It’s not just a means of transportation but a captivating voyage.
Crossing the Cook Strait, this scenic journey not only treats you to awe-inspiring coastal landscapes but also evokes a sense of anticipation as you transition between the two distinct regions of New Zealand.
Kiwi Travellers
What is New Zealand famous for? New Zealand is well-known for producing a breed of intrepid travellers with a serious case of wanderlust.
Kiwis love adventure and are often spotted gallivanting across the globe during their gap years, exploring every nook and cranny and embracing the art of slow travel.
These Kiwi globetrotters are masters of stretching their journeys into endless escapades, and you’ll likely find a Kiwi adventurer nearby, ready to share tales of their epic journeys.
Spacious Land, Serene Living
One of New Zealand’s unique attributes is its small population and abundance of open space, particularly on the South Island.
With its low population density, vast stretches of untouched landscapes, and remote areas, New Zealand offers a serene living environment and a sense of tranquillity that is rare in many parts of the world.
In some areas, especially in the South Island, the absence of traffic and the opportunity to immerse oneself in the natural beauty without the hustle and bustle of crowds provides a true escape.
Whether you’re exploring pristine national parks, embarking on a road trip along winding coastal roads, or seeking solace in the untouched wilderness or beaches, it’s not uncommon to find you have the whole place to yourself.
Thanks for reading “What’s New Zealand famous for?” What is NZ known for to you?
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