Things to do in Tasman

Mapua Wharf

No. 3 of Best Things to Do in New Zealand

Whale Watch Kaikoura

Whale Watch Kaikoura is an iconic marine experience in Kaikoura on New Zealand's South Island. What makes the Kaikoura waters unique is a submarine canyon approx. two kilometers deep that runs close to the coast, creating a rich marine food chain that keeps sperm whales in nearshore waters year-round—making it one of the few places in the world where wild sperm whales can be viewed up close throughout the year. After setting out to sea by boat, a common sight is a massive male sperm whale surfacing to blow a spout, then raising its tail flukes high and diving deep into the sea, with a single dive typically lasting several tens of minutes. Along the way, there is also a chance to encounter pods of dusky dolphins, known for their acrobatic flips and leaps, with a single pod numbering up to several hundred; Hector's dolphins are a small dolphin species endemic to New Zealand, appearing in small groups near the coast and are quite rare; New Zealand fur seals also often rest on the rocks along the route. Migratory cetaceans such as humpback whales and killer whales occasionally appear, mostly in the winter months. The landscape of Kaikoura, backed by snow-capped mountains and facing the sea, is itself an impressive sight during the voyage. Weather at sea is changeable, and trips may be canceled when the wind and waves are strong, so checking the day's sailing conditions before you set out can save you an unnecessary trip.

Janie Seddon Shipwreck

Motueka Top 10 Holiday Park

Skydive Abel Tasman

Abel Tasman skydiving We are one of New Zealand's longest-established and most experienced tandem skydiving and training centers. Over the past 25 years, we have shared unforgettable experiences with nearly 100,000 visitors jumping over Abel Tasman National Park, making it a skydiving skydiving . If it's your first time skydiving, you might feel a little nervous, but don't worry. Our professional instructors have extensive skydiving experience; they are not only highly skilled but also adept at putting you at ease, accompanying you on this special journey in a relaxed and humorous way. This is an aerial adventure unlike any other, unlike skydiving. You'll take off from near Motuika and, as the plane ascends, enjoy breathtaking views of the coastline of Abel Tasman National Park. From above, golden beaches, azure waters, scattered islands, lush forests, and expansive seas intertwine to create a stunning coastal panorama. As your parachute opens, you can slow down and leisurely appreciate this natural beauty from the air. Compared to the spectacular snow-capped mountain views, the skydiving experience here is more expansive and light. Descent freely between the coast and forests, overlooking Abel Tasman National Park from the sky, adding an unforgettable adventure to your New Zealand trip.

Motueka Saltwater Baths

Mapua Leisure Park

Tasman Motor Camp

No. 1 of Best Things to Do in Christchurch

International Antarctic Centre

The International Antarctic Centre is located in Christchurch on New Zealand's South Island. Christchurch is one of only five "Antarctic gateway cities" in the world, providing long-term logistical support for multinational Antarctic research expeditions, and this centre is a reflection of that unique status. The building's exterior was designed by Warren & Mahoney Architects, shaped like an ice wedge squeezed out from the Antarctic continent, echoing the geological features of the Antarctic ice sheet. Inside, there are multiple interactive experience zones. The Antarctic storm experience is one of the most popular attractions, with real snow laid indoors and low temperatures and fans simulating the onset of a blizzard, with perceived temperatures dropping to minus ten degrees or more. Before entering, visitors need to change into cold-weather jackets and shoe covers provided by the centre, and during breaks in the storm they can take photos in the ice cave area. The penguin rescue area houses little blue penguins rescued from the wild — the smallest species in the penguin family, with adults standing about 40 cm tall, each with its own name and story. Keepers hold scheduled feeding demonstrations, explaining each penguin's personality and rescue story while feeding them. Visitors who want a deeper understanding can also join the penguin behind-the-scenes tour, stepping into the keeper area to observe the penguins' daily care and feeding arrangements up close. The outdoor area offers the Hägglund all-terrain vehicle experience — riding this amphibious off-road vehicle developed by the Swedish military along a specially designed route that simulates Antarctic research teams crossing ice fields, climbing hills, and fording rivers, providing a bumpy and thrilling ride. The centre also features a 4D cinema showing immersive short films on Antarctic themes; the Antarctic science exhibition hall introduces Antarctica's geology, climate, ecology, and the research history of various countries through interactive exhibits; and visitors can learn about the real lives of New Zealand's Scott Base personnel in Antarctica. In addition, the centre keeps several husky dogs, and visitors can get up close and learn about the role of sled dogs in early Antarctic exploration.

Moturoa / Rabbit Island