Discover the wonders of Aotearoa with our top things to do this season! 

Aotearoa, New Zealand is one of the most beautiful countries in the world. We are beyond lucky to be living in this small slice of paradise, so why not make the most of it this summer! 

Here’s our list of the best activities to do while the sun is shining and the days are long. 

Explore brand new places

Why not make this summer the one where you explore a new part of the country?

There’s so much to see and do in Aotearoa, with options to suit every taste. 

If you want to get truly immersed in nature, then head out on one of the Great Walks. These walks are scattered around the country and offer breathtaking views of Aotearoa’s diverse landscape. 

If you’re not up for such an intense walk, then have a look at some options for easier walks in your area. Auckland’s original shoreline heritage walk and Te Whanganui-a-Tara Mount Victoria Lookout Walkway are two prime examples of great easier walks you can explore! 

Alternatively, pack up the car and go for a roadie! Discover stunning coastal areas, vibrant towns and rugged hills and mountains that make up this country. 

Hit the beach 

What’s the best feeling on a hot day? Diving into the ocean! There’s nothing like that refreshing feeling as the water cools you off. 

Make sure to capture that feeling and more this summer by heading to the beach! As an island nation, we are spoiled with a vast range of beaches. So pop down to your local or jet off to somewhere new. 

Just remember to be safe in the water! Also, don’t forget to slip, slop, slap and wrap! 

Seek your thrill of choice!

Are you looking for an exhilarating adventure? Well, Aotearoa is the perfect place for you!

All across the motu, there are activities that will get your adrenaline pumping. Bungy jumping, caving, jet boating, ziplining and sky-diving are just some of the incredible adventures on offer. You can find a thrilling activity in almost every corner of the country, so jump online and see what’s available in your region. 

There’s thrilling activities for all levels from family-friendly options to extreme risk-taking options! 

Markets! Markets! Markets!

Discover fresh produce, hand-crafted goods and scrumptious food at one of the many markets dotted around Aotearoa. 

If you’re in Auckland, you have to check out the famous Matakana Village Farmers Market. Head to Matakana on Saturday morning and you’ll be rewarded with stalls offering you fresh vegetables, bread, savoury treats and colourful flowers. 

In Wellington, head down to the Harbourside Market on a Sunday. Grab some fantastic deals on produce and enjoy a tasty snack from one of the food trucks. Since it’s located on Wellington Waterfront, you’ll be able to take in the beautiful views afterwards. 

For those in Christchurch, pop down to Riverside Market. This indoor market is a bustling culinary hub with delicious coffee, fresh fish, artisan cheeses and much more. How cool! Plus, it’s open every day of the week.

Other great markets across the country include Nelson Farmers' Market (Nelson), Arts and Craft Market (Queenstown) and Kerikeri and Paihia Farmers Markets (Bay of Islands). 

Festivals galore! 

Festivals are back in full swing this summer! 

There’s heaps of options to choose from like music festivals with big name acts to smaller festivals offering a unique themed experience. 

Here are our top picks for upcoming festivals you need to head along to: 

• Kiwiburn Festival, Hunterville (25-30 January)
• That Weekend, Tirau (28-29 January)
• Laneway Festival, Western Springs (30 January)
• Shipwrecked, Te Arai (10-12 February)
• Splore Festival, Tāpapakanga Regional Park (24-26 February)
• Electric Avenue Festival, Christchurch (25 February)
• Homegrown Festival, Wellington (18 March)

Picnic in the park

If you just want to chill out in the sun, then a picnic is the perfect thing for you! 

Head to your nearest park and lay out on a picnic blanket with your favourite foods packed from home. This is a great way to save money, eat exactly what you want, and enjoy a warm day.  

Picnics are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a big family gathering or a first date!

Want to save money on what goes into your picnic basket? Easy, use FoodMe! 

Discover how FoodMe will help you save heaps on your grocery shopping, here.

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Compare all your bills 

If you’d rather stay at home this summer, then that’s a great option too. If you want to feel productive AND save hundreds of dollars, then compare your bills! 

Quickly jumping online to compare your broadband, power, mobile and financial plans will save you heaps of money. Plus, you’ll likely find a new plan that suits your needs better! 

It’s important to compare now before the cold weather sets in and you’re faced with bill shock! 

You may be wondering… how do I compare?

Easy, use NZ Compare! 

Jump on NZ Compare!

NZ Compare is the home of multiple comparison websites where you can compare all your important household plans quickly and easily for FREE!!

Best of all, it’s easy to use. Just follow these simple steps:

• Jump onto our website.
• Choose a service to compare.
• Hit enter!
• Browse all the different plans available to you & compare them side-by-side.
• Find one you like and switch!

Alternatively, if you’d rather talk to a friendly human, then give our customer support team a free call on 0508 22 66 72. They’ll help you out! 

From all the team at NZ Compare, we hope you have an enjoyable and safe summer!

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