Take a virtual tour of NZ’s backyard
While we may not be able to physically tour our gorgeous backyard at the moment, we can still enjoy a change of scenery without having to even leave the couch! How? Many attractions and tourist destinations throughout New Zealand have opened up online. We reckon an ideal way to spend some of our extra time at the moment is virtually meandering along the shoreline of Lake Wakatipu, or watching the meerkats go about their day at Auckland Zoo.
Check out 6 of our favorite virtual tours in New Zealand…
1. Weta Cave at Weta Workshop
Discover how imaginary worlds are brought to life at the world famous Weta Workshop! A 360 degree VR virtual reality experience of Wellington city, inside the Weta Cave and Weta Workshop awaits.
2. Auckland Zoo
Auckland Zoo is taking you on a virtual journey to see their precious animals in their habitats on camera. Get up close and personal (from your home of course) with the Otter, Meerkat, Red Panda, African Savannah and Leopard Tortoise cams! You can also check out some live streams hosted on their Facebook page.
3. Auckland at large
Some epic adventures to be had in Auckland are all captured in a stunning 360 degree video. From bungy jumping off the Sky Tower, paddling about Acukland’s coastlines and zooming through native bush via zip-line on Waiheke – we can’t wait to get back out and explore all these amazing things to do! But for now, this is pretty good to get amongst.
4. Waitomo Glow Worm Caves
Without a doubt one of New Zealand’s must-do experiences – the Waitomo Glow Worm Caves will take your breath away. Deep below ground, glow worms twinkle like the night sky creating a stunning spectacle and truly unique experience. Why not embark on a virtual adventure in 360 degrees thanks to National Geographic!
5. Hobbiton

Go behind the scenes of New Zealand’s real Middle‑earth film set from the comfort of your own home. Wherever you may be, immerse yourself in the lush pastures of New Zealand’s Waikato region, with a 360-degree tour of the world renowned Hobbiton Movie Set.
Step into the enchanting world of Hobbiton, getting to explore the heart of The shire. Pop into the local bar – the green Dragon Inn, or check out Bag End – Frodo and Bilbo’s beloved hobbit-hole. There’s a map that you can interact with, taking you to all of the movie set’s hot spots in brilliant 360-degree still images. Let’s go!
6. Queenstown

This year-round favorite destination is sure to provide the change of scenery you’re yearning for. Soak into new or familiar surrounds by embarking on a 360 degree scenic virtual tour through Queenstown, Arrowtown and Wanaka. We’ll have to wait to enjoy a Fergbuger by the lake, but being immersed in the Southern serenity will certainly do for now!
Hanging out to enjoy these places physically? Us too! Book ahead and lock in some wonderful getaways and experiences to look forward to. We’ve got over 2,000 holiday homes throughout NZ that will provide the perfect base to explore from.