Here’s how to see New Zealand like a Kiwi.

There’s a lot to love in New Zealand, and after years of being locked in (and locked out) over the pandemic, locals have been embracing domestic tourism like never before.

“Kiwis spent an extra $1.1 billion NZD on domestic travel compared to pre-COVID levels,” Sarah Handley, general manager of Tourism New Zealand in the Americas and Europe, said of the nation’s 2021 statistics. “More than half have experienced a new tourism activity or visited a new place over the past year.”

Whether it’s road-tripping to pristine beaches, exploring the celestial alpine ranges in the Southern Alps, or enjoying the low-key luxury the far-flung country is renowned for, the love of the land by locals has never been more apparent.

Ahead are some of the stunning New Zealand destinations that continue to attract locals. Check them on your next adventure, too.

Matakana

Consider this the Napa Valley of New Zealand, but with beaches in the immediate vicinity. It’s only 45 minutes north of Auckland by car and is anchored by a charming village with local boutiques and an artisan farmers market that’s renowned for its quintessentially Kiwi food (think whitebait fritters, Manuka honey, Angus steak, and molten Mallow Puffs).

Beyond the village, one of the most interesting places for lunch and a wine tasting is Brick Bay, which boasts an impressive sculpture trail with 60 large-scale creations from New Zealand artists. A similar destination is Sculptureum, which has almost a mile of sculpture gardens and six themed galleries showcasing contemporary works from around the world.

There are also many traditional wineries throughout the region, where you can dine alfresco amid lush country landscapes and sample wines produced on-site. For a day spent by the sea, some of the most picturesque white-sand beaches sit within 10 minutes of the village, including Omaha Beach, Snells Beach, Pakiri Beach, and Tawharanui Regional Park. Also in the area is New Zealand’s oldest protected marine reserve, Goat Island, which is a wonderful place for children to snorkel and marvel at the colorful variety of sea life.

Queenstown

One of the most beautiful places in the world, Queenstown is defined by the majestic mountains known as The Remarkables that cascade into the sapphire waters of Lake Wakatipu. It’s known as the nation’s adventure capital, offering endless activities for adrenaline junkies: jet boating through the Shotover River, bungee jumping off Kawarau Bridge, paragliding around Coronet Peak, or skydiving from 15,000 feet into dramatic alpine scenery.

Home to New Zealand’s best ski slopes, it attracts lots of visitors during the winter. And if you think the après-ski offerings in Aspen are great, wait until you see Queenstown; the cosmopolitan city has a thriving gastronomy scene, luxurious hotels (most notably, Eichardt’s), elegant cocktail bars, high-end spas, and 75 wineries within a 20-minute driving distance. There are also contemporary art galleries, designer boutiques, and some of the most exclusive golf clubs in the country.

Kiwis generally drive when traveling domestically, so venturing to surrounding areas is common, with a particularly popular day trip being Arrowtown, a historic gold mining settlement lined with boutiques and cafes. Glenorchy, accessible by lake or land, also offers fantastic hikes and horse treks. Notable photogenic locations include Amisfield for a leisurely wine-drenched lunch and Onsen Hot Pools, which overlook dramatic snowcapped mountains.

Waiheke Island

Only a 40-minute boat ride from downtown Auckland, Waiheke Island is a popular day trip for those looking for a quick escape. The island is filled with verdant rolling hills, golden-sand beaches, and some of the region’s most revered wineries, which serve as sought-after venues for weddings and events.

Tantalus Estate, Mudbrick, Cable Bay, and Man O’War are among the most picturesque wineries, each offering excellent restaurants, including The Shed at Te Motu and Poderi Crisci, known for their legendary long lunches. Some rustic vineyards even host Coachella-inspired music festivals, while Casita Miro features a vibrant live jazz scene.

Another highlight that draws visitors is the beautiful, uncrowded beaches, ideal for families, including Palm Beach, Onetangi, and Oneroa, which are close to the main township. This beautiful island is New Zealand’s answer to the Hamptons—high-end yet low-key, perfect for a day of relaxation and indulgence.

Bay of Islands

New Zealanders with a penchant for maritime activities will feel right at home in the Bay of Islands. The name is quite literal—there are 144 islands in the sparkling subtropical region between Cape Brett and the Purerua Peninsula, all of which are best explored by boat.

This area is perfect for fishing, jet boating between islands, and sailing alongside dolphins, whales, and an abundance of wildlife. It’s a three-hour drive north of Auckland (or a 35-minute flight) and has long been a favorite summer destination for New Zealanders living on the North Island. The area comprises the towns of Paihia, Kerikeri, and Russell, which was the nation’s first capital, close to the historic site where the Treaty of Waitangi was signed in 1840. Here, New Zealand’s spirited pub culture began with the country’s first pub, Duke of Marlborough, established in Russell in 1827 and still a favorite today.

Much like many European seaside towns, the coast is dotted with yachts during the summer, and locals tend to visit for extended periods over the holiday season. The region also hosts two internationally acclaimed hotels: Eagles Nest and The Lodge at Kauri Cliffs, one of only seven Relais & Chateaux properties in New Zealand.

Raglan

Surfers flock to Raglan year-round for its consistent waves and laid-back lifestyle. This serene seaside town has embraced surf culture, evident from the moment you arrive. Expect surfboards lining the sidewalks, bohemian boutiques, organic cafes, and lively gastropubs playing reggae music. For Kiwis, Raglan represents the ultimate place to embrace van life and experience the outdoors on a budget, with various campgrounds and holiday parks.

Glamping retreats have emerged; Nikau Sanctuary and The Round Tent are popular getaways featuring luxury yurts, outdoor bathtubs, and fire pits. Experienced surfers head to Manu Bay, while beginners typically go to Ngarunui Beach. Several local operators offer surfing lessons, but for a more relaxed experience, paddleboards and kayaks are available for rent, or simply lounge on the beach to admire the black-sand coastline and ancient limestone formations. Don’t forget to visit Raglan Fish for classic fish and chips—a beloved Kiwi snack.

Taupo

Located in the heart of the North Island, Taupo is home to New Zealand’s largest lake, roughly the size of Singapore. It also boasts the country’s most-visited natural attraction, Huka Falls, where water thunders through a narrow chasm at 220,000 liters per second, creating a spectacular whirlpool. Along the same river (the Waikato) is the luxurious Huka Lodge, a beloved escape for many New Zealanders and high-profile guests.

Moreover, the Tongariro Alpine Crossing is a dual UNESCO World Heritage Site, renowned for its emerald lakes and red craters—a life-changing experience for hikers. But on a more regular basis, people head to Taupo for its proximity to New Zealand’s largest commercial ski slopes at Mount Ruapehu. The adjacent town of Kinloch, situated on the northern edge of Lake Taupo, bustles with Kiwis who own holiday homes. A speedboat for trout fishing and waterskiing on the lake is considered the ultimate accessory in this part of the country.

Hawke’s Bay

Hawke’s Bay serves as a haven for lovers of fine experiences, boasting exceptional wineries, luxury lodges, beautiful beaches, golf courses, and fabulous art deco architecture. It’s the first stop on the classic New Zealand Wine Trail and features a flourishing hospitality scene, led by The Farm at Cape Kidnappers. “For Kiwis, Hawke’s Bay is known for its stunning wines and produce,” says James Cavanagh of Robertson Lodges. “It’s also known as the first place on earth to see the sun each day. The ocean sunrises through sea mists are worth setting an alarm for.”

Hawke’s Bay is an idyllic retreat popular for long weekend escapes. More adventurous visitors often embark on the Lake Waikaremoana Track, one of New Zealand’s Great Walks.