Australia and New Zealand are paradises for thrill-seekers and nature enthusiasts. From the sun-scorched Outback to the snow-capped peaks of the Southern Alps, these two countries offer an incredible array of adventures.
Let’s explore the 25 best cities in Australia and New Zealand for those who live life on the edge.
Queenstown, New Zealand
Known as the ‘Adventure Capital of the World,’ Queenstown is a thrill-seeker’s dream. You can bungee jump off the Kawarau Bridge, jet boat through narrow canyons, or ski at world-class resorts.
For a real adrenaline rush, try the Nevis Swing, the world’s biggest swing that’ll have you soaring through a massive arc 300 meters above the Nevis River.
Cairns, Australia
Gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, Cairns offers underwater adventures galore. Snorkel or dive among vibrant coral and tropical fish, or take a scenic flight over the reef for a bird’s-eye view.
If you prefer to stay on land, the nearby Daintree Rainforest offers zipline tours through the world’s oldest tropical rainforest.
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Rotorua, New Zealand
Rotorua is a geothermal wonderland and cultural hub. You can white water raft down the Kaituna River, featuring the world’s highest commercially rafted waterfall.
For a unique experience, try zorbing – rolling down a hill inside a giant inflatable ball. Don’t forget to visit a Maori village for an authentic hangi feast and cultural performance.
Gold Coast, Australia
Surf’s up on the Gold Coast, where you can catch waves at famous breaks like Surfers Paradise. If you prefer to stay dry, head to the theme parks for heart- pumping roller coasters.
For a natural thrill, explore the hiking trails and waterfalls of the nearby Lamington National Park.
Wellington, New Zealand
The ‘Windy City’ offers more than just blustery weather. Mountain bike through the Makara Peak Mountain Bike Park or kayak along the rugged coastline.
For a unique adventure, visit Weta Workshop and see how movie magic is made. Why not cap off your day with a craft beer from one of Wellington’s many microbreweries?
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Darwin, Australia
Darwin is your gateway to the rugged Northern Territory. Take a crocodile-spotting cruise in Kakadu National Park, or cool off under the waterfalls of Litchfield National Park.
For a real Aussie outback experience, join a 4WD tour into Arnhem Land, one of the largest Aboriginal reserves in Australia.
Taupo, New Zealand
Centered around New Zealand’s largest lake, Taupo is an adventure playground. Skydive over the stunning lake, or try your hand at fly fishing in the clear waters of the Tongariro River.
For a geothermal experience, soak in the natural hot springs at Spa Park.
Hobart, Australia
Tasmania’s capital is surrounded by wilderness adventures. Climb Mount Wellington for panoramic views, or kayak along the coastline to spot seals and dolphins.
For a spine-chilling experience, take a ghost tour of Port Arthur, one of Australia’s most notorious convict prisons.
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Nelson, New Zealand
Nelson is the perfect base for exploring Abel Tasman National Park. Kayak along the golden beaches, hike the coastal track, or try canyoning in the park’s pristine rivers.
For a bird’s-eye view, take a scenic flight over the stunning Marlborough Sounds.
Broome, Australia
This remote outpost in Western Australia offers unique adventures. Ride a camel along Cable Beach at sunset, or take a hovercraft tour to see dinosaur footprints at low tide.
For a real thrill, join a fishing charter and try to land a massive barramundi.
Wanaka, New Zealand
Nestled beside a beautiful lake, Wanaka offers year-round adventures. Ski or snowboard at Treble Cone in winter or hike the stunning Rob Roy Glacier Track in summer.
For a unique experience, try canyoning in the nearby streams and waterfalls.
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Byron Bay, Australia
This laid-back coastal town is a haven for surfers and nature lovers. Learn to surf at The Pass or kayak alongside dolphins in the bay.
For a birds-eye view, take a tandem hang-gliding flight from the nearby hills.
Dunedin, New Zealand
Known as the ‘Edinburgh of the South’, Dunedin offers both cultural and natural adventures. Mountain bike through the stunning Otago Peninsula, or take a wildlife cruise to spot albatross and penguins.
For a spooky thrill, join a ghost tour of Larnach Castle.
Airlie Beach, Australia
Gateway to the Whitsunday Islands, Airlie Beach is a paradise for water lovers. Sail through the islands, snorkel in crystal-clear waters, or skydive over Heart Reef.
For a unique perspective, try a seaplane flight over the Great Barrier Reef.
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Christchurch, New Zealand
Christchurch is reinventing itself as an adventure hub. Punt down the Avon River, mountain bike in the Port Hills, or try surfing at Sumner Beach.
For a unique experience, visit the International Antarctic Centre and ride in a Hagglund all-terrain vehicle.
Margaret River, Australia
This region in Western Australia is famous for its wine, but it also offers plenty of adventures. Surf at world-class breaks, explore limestone caves, or hike part of the Cape to Cape Track.
For a bird’s-eye view, try tandem paragliding over the stunning coastline.
Napier, New Zealand
Known for its Art Deco architecture, Napier also offers plenty of outdoor adventures. Cycle through the wineries of Hawke’s Bay, or try your hand at surf casting from the beach.
For a unique experience, join a gannet colony tour at Cape Kidnappers.
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Noosa, Australia
This upscale beach town on the Sunshine Coast is a paradise for nature lovers. Surf at Noosa Main Beach, hike through Noosa National Park, or kayak through the Noosa Everglades.
For a unique adventure, try stand-up paddleboarding at sunset on the Noosa River.
Kaikoura, New Zealand
Kaikoura is world-renowned for its marine life. Go whale watching, swim with dolphins, or dive with fur seals.
For a land-based adventure, hike the Kaikoura Peninsula Walkway for stunning coastal views and a chance to spot New Zealand fur seals.
Alice Springs, Australia
The heart of the Red Centre, Alice Springs, is your base for outback adventures. Hike through the MacDonnell Ranges, take a hot air balloon ride over the desert, or join a camel trek at sunset.
For a cultural experience, visit the Aboriginal art galleries and learn about Dreamtime stories.
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Paihia, New Zealand
Gateway to the Bay of Islands, Paihia offers water adventures galore. Sail through the islands, dive at the Rainbow Warrior wreck, or try parasailing for a bird’s-eye view. For a historical adventure, visit the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, birthplace of the nation.
Launceston, Australia
Tasmania’s second city is surrounded by natural wonders. Hike through Cataract Gorge, mountain bike at Hollybank Mountain Bike Park, or take a scenic flight over Cradle Mountain.
For a unique experience, visit Seahorse World and learn about these fascinating creatures.
Raglan, New Zealand
This laid-back surf town on the North Island is famous for its left-hand break. Learn to surf at Ngarunui Beach, or try stand-up paddleboarding in the harbor.
For a different perspective, take a sunset kayak tour to see glowworms in the nearby canyon.
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Exmouth, Australia
Gateway to the Ningaloo Reef, Exmouth offers world-class marine adventures. Swim with whale sharks (the world’s largest fish), snorkel with manta rays, or dive at Navy Pier.
For a land-based adventure, explore the rugged canyons of Cape Range National Park.
Akaroa, New Zealand
This charming French-influenced town on the Banks Peninsula offers unique adventures. Swim with the world’s smallest dolphins, kayak in the sheltered harbor, or hike the Banks Peninsula Track.
For a bird’s-eye view, try paragliding from the surrounding hills.
Get Ready for the Adventure of a Lifetime
From the adrenaline-pumping activities of Queenstown to the underwater wonders of the Great Barrier Reef, Australia and New Zealand offer endless opportunities for adventure. Whether you’re diving with sharks, hiking through ancient rainforests, or bungee jumping off bridges, these cities provide the perfect base for your next thrill seeking expedition.
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