New Zealand boasts a remarkable variety of stunning tourist spots. Dubbed “God’s Own Country,” New Zealand draws both adventure seekers and seniors looking for relaxation.
Starting in Auckland on a small-group tour to explore the Bay of Islands or Wellington to experience alpine areas with Doubtful Sound cruise, take off on an adventure!
1. Explore the Bay of Islands
Bay of Islands tours should not miss this must-see destination for seniors visiting New Zealand. Experience marine wildlife as you sail around its scenic islands, coves, and beaches on an ocean cruise around its bays. Don’t forget the Waitangi Treaty Grounds as this was where Maori chiefs signed an accord with British forces which led to New Zealand being founded as a nation!
Ecocruz offers an engaging 3-day sailing expedition to discover the Bay’s Maritime Park, complete with visits to iconic features like Hole in the Rock (a natural passageway between rocks only wide enough for cruise boats to pass). Or take an eco-cruise and discover dolphins and seals amongst an emerald island sea! Or try an exhilarating jet boat ride through Tutukau Gorge –a natural wonder where knee deep waters plunge deep beneath knee-high rocks before flowing into stunning native bush surroundings!
2. Cruise Milford Sound
Milford Sound, an idyllic fiord in New Zealand’s Fiordland National Park, features the dramatic Mitre Peak and cascading waterfalls of Mitre Peak National Park, plus alpine parrots, wildlife from seals to penguins, cheeky alpine parrots and cheeky alpine parrots that come here for the spring re-visits are sure to delight photographers looking for photographic moments aplenty! Visit here during spring months when low-lying fog rolls over forests-clad mountains surrounded by forest-clad mountains covered mountains awash in vibrant hues that beg to be photographed while baby animals eagerly wait patiently waiting their turn to be photographed.
Rainwater runs off from mountain slopes into a Fjord, carrying sediment with it. A cruise offers the ideal way to experience this spectacle, with guides available to point out wildlife and give information about its surroundings.
If driving the four hour journey from Queenstown to Milford Sound is too much of a burden for you, consider taking an organised coach tour that includes cruise. Gray Line, AwesomeNZ and GreatSights all provide affordable packages perfect for budget travellers; seniors may prefer this alternative form of transport in such remote regions.
3. Explore the Coromandel
New Zealand may be known for attracting adrenaline junkies and young backpackers, but it can also make for an incredible travel destination for senior travellers. With its small size, wide array of accessibility, friendly culture and easygoing atmosphere, New Zealand makes for an incredible senior travel experience.
Odyssey offers tours tailored specifically for mature travellers and led by like-minded guides, with small group tours set out every month in New Zealand to explore its breathtaking natural landscape, World Heritage sites and most celebrated cities with ease! Join one of these small group tours today to uncover its magic!
On this tour of Coromandel, you’ll visit some of its most notable attractions like Hot Water Beach – with its iconic hot springs at low tide! Cathedral Cove (filmed for Chronicles of Narnia Prince Caspian scene) as well as scenic coastal walks will also be visited during this tour. In Kaikoura Whale Watching Cruise you will witness up-close whale encounters and other marine life along its magnificent coastline! Afterward, your vehicle will return you back to Christchurch.
4. Visit the Waitomo Glowworm Caves
Glowworm Caves in Waitomo have quickly become one of the must-visit attractions on many travelers’ New Zealand itineraries. Home to Arachnocampa luminosa glowworm species, these caves feature multiple tours available and make for a memorable trip through time.
Tours offer visitors the chance to explore world-famous cave systems like this one and glide silently along glowworm-lit waterways on board a boat, exploring their remarkable features and legends with your guide. Some guides are descendants of Maori chief who originally explored these caverns; their insightful storytelling will bring your experience alive with stories that will enthrall and surprise.
This tour is perfect for anyone who’s eager to experience the splendor and charm of New Zealand. Filled with unforgettable spots and experiences that you won’t soon forget, New Zealand boasts stunning natural features that leave no stone unturned – from iconic spots and experiences like Mt. Cook to its relaxed culture, making it an ideal travel destination for seniors. Book your adventure trip now – our experienced team is on hand to make your adventure come to fruition!
5. Visit Rotorua
Rotorua, situated on New Zealand’s North Island and known as Lake Rotorua, is renowned for its geothermal activity. Visit Te Puia’s Whakarewarewa Valley and watch Pohutu Geyser erupt several times each day before relaxing your feet in one of Polynesian Spa’s steaming thermal pools that offer breathtaking views over native forest landscape and Lake Rotorua.
If you prefer more leisurely ways of exploring, hop aboard a Lakeland Queen boat for a leisurely cruise on Lake Superior and its shores. Enjoy breakfast, lunch, or dinner cruises while admiring its beauty while gazing upon its surroundings. Alternatively, trek along Tarawera Trail(opens in new window) before ending your trek at natural hot springs along the route.
New Zealand offers stunning landscapes and vibrant Maori culture to make it an irresistibly inviting travel destination. Take advantage of age-appropriate escorted tours for the trip of your lifetime!
