NZ Travel Guides

Lake Hayes has one of the most scenic easy loop walks in the Queenstown area – reflections, autumn colour and a peaceful escape. Free and family-friendly.

Lake Hawea is a deep-blue, peaceful alpine lake just 15 minutes from Wanaka. Free viewpoints, swimming, walks and a calmer base for backpackers.

Wanaka offers the same alpine beauty as Queenstown with a more relaxed vibe. That tree, Roys Peak, free lakeside walks and honest camping rules for backpackers.

Arrowtown is a beautifully preserved gold-mining village near Queenstown. Free river gold panning, Chinese settlement history, autumn colours and walks.

Queenstown is famous for expensive thrills – but there’s a whole free side. The best no-cost walks, views, beaches and hikes for budget backpackers.

Abel Tasman National Park has NZ’s most beautiful coastline – golden sand, clear water, native bush. How backpackers can experience it on a budget.

Cape Farewell is the South Island’s northernmost point, next to epic Wharariki Beach with its sea arches and seal pups. Free walks and backpacker tips.

Collingwood is the last village before the wild far north of the South Island – gateway to Farewell Spit, Wharariki Beach and total remoteness. Backpacker guide.

Tākaka is Golden Bay’s funky main village – markets, music, swimming holes and a gateway to Abel Tasman and Te Waikoropupu Springs. Backpacker guide.

Golden Bay sits beyond a winding mountain pass at the top of the South Island. Te Waikoropupu Springs, wild beaches, hippie towns and backpacker camping tips.