Wander From Home: Dive Into New Zealand’s Untamed Wilderness and Maori Culture

PUBLISHED June 30th, 2020 06:00 am | UPDATED July 13th, 2020 01:03 am

Tucked away in a remote corner of the Earth, not many may know of New Zealand‘s understated charm – especially if you haven’t watched The Lord of the Rings. Ever so perfectly split into two landmasses, the South and the North Islands, New Zealand offers experiences so unique from exploring mountain coastlines to learning about their thriving indigenous culture. Join us as we take a virtual vacation through New Zealand and immerse in its natural wonders and rich heritage.

North Island

The North Island of New Zealand has the best of both worlds – bustling cities and serene natural wonders. Although smaller than its southern brother, this versatile location packs equally – if not more – enthralling adventures.

Explore the Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa

No trip to the capital city of New Zealand is complete without stopping by its national museum. Located on the waterfront of Wellington, Te Papa Tongarewa – which translates to Container of Treasures – houses amazing riches ranging from a sacred Maori mare (meeting place) to living outdoor exhibitions like Bush City and, history galleries. Through this virtual tour, explore all six magnificent floors of New Zealand’s greatest museum. For a more in-depth look at their valuable pieces, head over to Te Papa’s Youtube channel for their fascinating mini-docuseries dubbed Tales from Te Papa.

Immerse in Māori Culture at Mitai Māori Village

The best way to truly understand a country is by getting to know its locals. What better place to start than by learning about the country’s indigenous Polynesian population, the Māori? Playing a major role in New Zealand’s identity and culture, dive head-first into native Māori culture by entering the world of Mitai, a village in Rotorua. In this video, see warriors paddling an ancient waka (war canoe) and savour a traditional Hāngī (earth oven) feast cooked by the area’s natural geothermal properties in a pit oven. Cap off the night with a mesmerising performance of the ceremonial Haka dance.

Admire The Natural Beauty of The Bay of Islands

Made up of tranquil beaches, incredible marine life and a wealth of historical sites, The Bay of Islands is an island paradise that will leave you spoilt for choices when it comes to must-dos. Check out this breath-taking aerial video for a taste of what to expect.

Kick-off your island escape by diving right into the aquamarine water and swimming alongside cuddly dolphins here. Once you’ve had your fill of animal cuteness, we are headed on a kayak to the base of the cascading Haruru Falls where you will be doused with icy-cold water. Last but not least, a cruise to the Hole in The Rock awaits – this video takes you under Motukokako (aka Piercy Island) thorough a spectacular 16m-high tunnel in the cliff.

Marvel at The Glowworm Waitomo Caves

Under the lush green hills of Waitomo you’ll find labyrinthine caves and underground rivers. And they are no ordinary caves – the Waitomo Glowworm Caves are famously known for its population of Arachnocampa luminosa, a glowworm species found exclusively in New Zealand. Expect nothing short of a spellbinding fairytale experience as you marvel at the canopy of twinkling glow worms whilst gliding gently downstream through stunning limestone caves in the above 360-degree video.

For more of an adventure, the cave system also includes the Ruakari Cave and the Aranui Cave where you can go for a Black Water Rafting tour that lets you tube through epic rapids and scale ancient rock formations. Check it out here.

South Island

South Island is renowned for its gorgeous natural landscapes. From mist-cloaked fjords to towering mountains, look forward to rugged wilderness and thrilling adventures.

Scale Mt Cook

The impressive Southern Alps mountain range runs the length of the South Island with cloud-piercing peaks, pristine glaciers and everlasting snowfields. The crown jewel of the alpine is the colossal Mount Cook. Standing tall at 3724m,  it is the highest in New Zealand. Scale the mighty mountain in this video and experience what it’s like to be on the top of the world.

If heights get you giddy, there’s plenty to explore on ground level too. Walk down New Zealand’s longest glacier, Tasman Glacier, and stay back for a magical showcase of dazzling constellations and shooting stars against the night sky in this 360-degree video.

Get Your Adrenaline Pumping at Queenstown

Adrenaline junkies, hop aboard for New Zealand’s adventure capital, Queenstown. This resort town boasts around 220 adventure activities running the gamut from skiing and snowboarding to whitewater rafting and bungy jumping. In fact, the Kawarau Gorge Suspension Bridge which runs over the Kawarau River was the world’s first commercial bungy jumping site. If you are really up for a challenge take on the Nevis Bungy – New Zealand’s highest (world’s third-highest) bungy jump – that will have you plummeting 134m towards the Nevis River Valley in this video.

Sip on Vino at Marlborough

Marlborough has all the ingredients needed for uniquely vivid wines – varying micro-climates, low rainfall and fertile soil. It’s little wonder that this region is known for concocting some of the most exquisite Sauvignon Blanc, as well as other renowned varietals in New Zealand. Gear up and embark on a Marlborough wine tour of the best wineries in the region by bike through this video. For a truly immersive experience, pick up a bottle or two of Marlborough-origin wines online here.

Zen Out at Milford Sound

Located on the southwest of the South Island, Milford Sound is where majestic cliffs meet inky black waters. Carved out by erosion of ancient glacial ice, this spectacular location has even been described as “the eighth wonder of the world” by Rudyard Kipling. Milford Sound is also one of the rainiest places on Earth and as a result, has no shortage of incredible waterfalls cascading down its sheer rock faces. The best way to admire this scenic beauty is to sail out onto the fjords. Enjoy nature’s wonder in this soothing video.

Top Image: Tourism New Zealand