Overrated destinations in New Zealand to avoid
What's the story
New Zealand is famous for its breathtaking landscapes and colorful culture, drawing travelers from across the world. But, not every destination is worth the hype. Some places, even though they are much-popular, may not provide the unique experiences that tourists seek. Here are five such places in New Zealand that might disappoint you and where to head to instead for a more authentic experience.
Tourist hub
Queenstown's crowded streets
Queenstown is often touted as New Zealand's adventure capital. Although it does have a lot to offer, its streets can get unbearably crowded during peak seasons. The flow of tourists can result in long queues and inflated prices at local attractions and eateries. If you want a similar scenic beauty without the crowd, the less congested Wanaka is just an hour away.
Geothermal City
Rotorua's sulfur smell
Rotorua is also famous for its geothermal activity and Maori culture. However, most visitors are put off by the pervasive sulfur smell. The odor can take away from the experience of fully enjoying the natural hot springs and geysers. Travelers who are interested in geothermal wonders would want to check out Taupo instead, which offers similar attractions without the strong scent.
Big city life
Auckland's urban sprawl
Auckland, being New Zealand's largest city, is a common entry point for international travelers. While the city is huge and modern, some believe it lacks the charm of smaller towns in New Zealand. The sprawling city can make it difficult and time-consuming to navigate through the traffic. If you want urban experiences with more character, try Wellington or Christchurch instead.
Rainy Fjordland
Milford Sound's weather woes
While Milford Sound is known for its stunning fjords, it is also infamous for unpredictable weather patterns, including frequent downpours—over 200 days a year on average—which may block views of the natural marvel. Those who wish to enjoy clearer skies may visit Doubtful Sound instead. It provides equally stunning views without the touristy crowd.
Film dusty tour
Hobbiton Movie Set's high prices
The iconic The Lord of the Rings series' Hobbiton movie set charges $89 per adult for a tour that mostly offers photo opportunities. For a free Tolkien-inspired adventure, you can head to Tongariro National Park (where parts of the series were filmed) for stunning landscapes without the high cost (other than park entry fees for certain activities).