5 of the Most Unique Experiences in New Zealand

But for some, new and exciting isn’t enough. When you’re looking for things that are truly out of the ordinary, here are a few you can only find in New Zealand:

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Waitomo Glowworm Caves

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We’ve talked about the Waitomo Glowworms Caves in our posts before, but they’re so unique and interesting that we feel like they’re worth a second mention. The Waitomo Glowworms caves stand out as one of the top attractions in New Zealand - and for good reason. There are few places on earth that you can see the caves light up around you as you can here. 

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As you take a peaceful boat ride through the caves, you may think that you’re looking up at the night sky. But what you’re actually seeing are the bioluminescent glow worms that make the Waitomo Caves their home. 

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Uniqueness, beauty, wonder - it’s all to be found here in the Waitomo Caves. Book your tour early though - this one fills up fast!

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Hydro Experience - Queenstown

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Ever wonder what it feels like to be a shark swimming through the Ocean? Well, now you can experience it for yourself! Okay, well it’s not the ocean, but the Hydro Attack Experience takes you on a deep dive down into the waters of Lake Wakatipu on the Seabreacher X watercraft. Reaching speeds of up to 80km/hr, this thrilling watercraft takes you on long dives, high jumps, and 360 degree spins throughout the waters.

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If you’re looking for a thrill - this is an experience for you!

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Shweeb Racer - Rotorua

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What on earth is a Shweeb? It’s a once in a lifetime experience that you can only find in New Zealand! Located in the Velocity Valley Adventure Park in Rotorua, the Shweeb Racer is a human powered monorail track.

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We know, we know, we’ve all seen a monorail before and there’s nothing too exciting about that. But what about an upside down monorail pedal powered racing pod? Now that’s something different! Reaching up to 45 kms/hr, this self-pedalled monorail takes you along a 200 metre scenic track and allows you to race your friends while doing it! 

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Who’s the better Shweeber? Only New Zealand has the answer!

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Woodlyn Park - Waitomo

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Planes, trains, and - Hobbit Holes? Yes! New Zealand is home to many famous filming locations from the oh so popular Lord of the Rings Series. In fact, many Lord of the Rings fans travel to New Zealand particularly to see different filming locations for the movie. One of the most popular locations, of course, is the Hobbiton Movie set located in the heart of the Waikato Region. 

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But if you don’t want your stay to end after the set tour, you can stay in your very own Hobbit House at Woodlyn Park. Of course, due to the popularity of the movie, these holes are frequently pre-booked far in advance. But if you’re a last minute Lou, don’t worry! The hotel also has other unique stays too. Sleep in a plane. Sleep on a train. Or sleep in a boat!

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Visit Taumata whakatangi hangakoauau o tamatea turi pukakapiki maunga horo nuku pokai whenua kitanatahu

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Yes. You read that properly, but our guess is that you probably didn’t try to pronounce it - and we don’t blame you. “Taumata whakatangi hangakoauau o tamatea turi pukakapiki maunga horo nuku pokai whenua kitanatahu” is the place with the longest name in the world. And surprisingly, it’s not even a town or city, it’s just a hill. It can be translated to, “the place where Tamatea, the man with the big knees, who slid, climbed and swallowed mountains, known as 'landeater’, played his flute to his loved one”, but it's referred to by the locals as Taumata Hill.

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To be honest, there’s not a ton to see here. But it is a great pit stop and Instagram worthy attraction!

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