Peter SchimkeWhile New Zealand’s grand scenery is world-renowned, its smaller towns hold a unique magic that often steals the hearts of visitors. To truly appreciate the country’s beauty, step away from the bustle of Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch and delve into its gentle wilderness and enchanting villages.
So, it’s time to get on the road and embark on a road trip and uncover the most captivating little towns New Zealand has tucked away!
Also read: 8 Lakes in New Zealand that Will Take Your Breath Away
Little towns in New Zealand you have to visit
1. Wanaka, Otago
Image credit: Kathrin & Stefan Marks
This hidden gem near Queenstown is truly worth a stopover. Wanaka is a scenic lakeside town, and it is a wonder why tourists have not yet flocked here to take in its wonders – not that I’m complaining. This town is perfect for lazing by the lake, or taking on scenic hiking trails. Travellers should drop by Paradiso Cinema, a classic and cozy theatre, for a movie in the evening.
2. Napier, Hawke’s Bay
Image credit: John Ted Daganato
Located on the eastern coast of the North Island, Napier is by far my favourite place in all of New Zealand. I lived here for a little under a year, and this small town had everything that you need for a life in Aotearoa (the native Maori word for New Zealand).
After a devastating earthquake in 1931, which flattened most of the town, Napier was rebuilt in the then-popular Art Deco style. It is right by the beach, and if the 10-kilometre stretch of beautiful promenade isn’t enough already, you can also explore at least ten other beaches that are reachable within 15 minutes. Did I mention that Napier is famous for its many vineyards?
3. Raglan, Waikato
Image credit: Florian Bugiel
Raglan, population 3000, is situated on the west coast of North Island and surrounded by a truly charming bay. The small community offers plenty of cafes to chill out and many beaches, which have become a hotspot for surfers. Like many other towns on this list, Raglan is a place to take refuge from the world. Never-ending beaches and unbelievably beautiful nature make it the spot where summer never ends.
4. Whakatane, Bay of Plenty
Image credit: Chris Thompson
The name says it all. The Bay of Plenty is one of the most scenic regions on the North Island. One reason to visit is the motto of Whakatane itself – it claims to be the ‘sunshine capital of New Zealand’. But if you ask me, they could call it ‘sunset capital’. Sitting at the mouth of the Whakatane River, one can see the most magical sunsets ever. I am not even exaggerating.
5. Russell, Bay of Islands
Image credit: Chris Gin
Small in size, like many other towns in New Zealand, but big in gorgeous landscapes. Russell is surrounded by the Bay of Islands and offers many small and hidden beaches just about wherever you go. As summertime is extremely idyllic, it is not hard to understand why Russell was the very first permanent settlement in New Zealand.
6. Bluff, Southland
Image credit: Chris Hartman
Located on the southern shores of the island, Bluff is the very last town on the mainland. Being here, you won’t help but feel far away from everything – and this feeling is quite justified since this charming little port town is at the world’s end… well, sort of. While the town itself faces the Awarua Bay, the Motupohue Scenic Reserve on the south-west of Bluff offers the most amazing views onto the ocean and Stewart Island in the distance.
7. Queenstown, Otago
Image credit: Hey Explorer
Queenstown is hands down one of the most picturesque towns in New Zealand, and there is no doubt about that. Also known as New Zealand’s adventure capital, Queenstown offers opportunities for bungy jumping, jetboating, white-water rafting, skydiving… the list goes on. Set against Lake Wakatipu and flanked by snow-capped mountains, Queenstown is a place you’ll remember for life.
8. Akaroa, Canterbury
Image credit: Andrew Schaffer
Hidden in the hills and situated by the bay of the same name, Akaroa is about a two-hour drive from Christchurch. The small township is also known as Long Harbour, due to the shape of the bay. The green hills and mountaintops in the surrounding area create a striking contrast with the clear blue waters of the bay. The natural beauty not only attracts visitors from all over New Zealand, but also dolphins that can frequently be spotted in the bay.
9. Aramoana, Dunedin
Image credit: Bruce McKinlay
Sometimes the stopovers can be just as rewarding as the destination itself. Aramoana is about 30 kilometres outside of Dunedin on the South Island of New Zealand, and the drive up to the town will take you along one of the most scenic routes in the area. The winding road between the Otago Harbour and the surrounding hills leads up to Aramoana’s beautiful sand beaches facing nothing but the wide ocean.
10. Tauranga, Bay of Plenty
Image credit: Philip Morton
One of the bigger towns on the list, Tauranga distinguishes itself from any other with the fascinating Mount Maunganui (also known as “The Mount”) towering in the city. The Mount is literally a huge hill surrounded by flat land. Besides enjoying the kilometre-long white sand beaches and a thriving café culture in the town, you can also walk to Moturiki Island when the tide is low. Tauranga is an easy choice if you want to hang out for a week.
Also Read: A Guide to Trekking Mount Amos in Tasmania
Any other little towns in New Zealand that deserve to be on this list? While we’ve highlighted some truly enchanting smaller towns across Aotearoa, the beauty of New Zealand lies in its myriad hidden gems.
