It's true: New Zealand can be an expensive place to visit. But there are definitely some free natural attractions to add to your itinerary. Here's 9 free things to do/sights to see that I can vouch for.
Northland
See Tāne Mahuta, our largest living kauri tree
It's just a short walk through the Waipoua Forest to Tāne Mahuta, aka, Lord of the Forest. Stick to the walking tracks; the environment is delicate.
It's free to visit; that said, the Footprints Waipoua tour is quite amazing, with Māori guides sharing songs, stories and insights.
Auckland
Climb a volcanic cone
You can absolutely take your pick, but Mt Eden is a popular one close to the CBD, complete with panoramic views and a neat crater at the summit.
Coromandel
Cathedral Cove
Magical is the only word to describe this beach. It's a bit of a hike to get to Cathedral Cove, but more than worth it.
And a little further down the Coromandel coastline lies Hot Water Beach. At low tide you can dig your own hot water spa pool in the sand. But get there early and stake out your patch. Maybe bring a gang.
Taupo
Huka Falls
The Huka Falls are our most-visited natural attraction. The roar and spectacle of the thundering waterfalls are just spectacular.
Wellington
Te Papa
Our national museum is an absolute must-see, and entry is free. DO IT.
Fiordland
Milford Rd/Milford Sound
The Milford Rd leading into Milford Sound is just bursting with amazing sights around every corner. Waterfalls, the Homer Tunnel, the Mirror Lakes, the Chasm ... the journey itself really is half the pleasure.
That said, you really need to take a cruise to see the best of Milford Sound (or a scenic flight, perhaps?), otherwise you're just chilling at the end of a really long dead end, picturesque as it is. More on that part of our South Island road trip.
West Coast
Punakaiki
At high tide, the ocean sprays up through blowholes at the 'Pancake Rocks'. There's a lovely cafe across the road, too. Then drive north along the Great Coast Road; the stretch between Westport and Greymouth has been voted one of the top 10 coastal drives in the world by Lonely Planet. More on that part of our South Island road trip.
Catlins
Nugget Point
Around Nugget Point you can spot yellow eyed penguins if you time it right. Plus, the coastline is magnificent. More on that part of our South Island trip.
Dunedin
Baldwin St
Said to be the world's steepest street, the sheer angle of Baldwin St is a bit mind-boggling.