Just in time for summer, AA Traveller has presented a freshly collated, vibrant collection of absolute Must-Do’s for Kiwi holidaymakers.

This year marks the 10th anniversary of the original 101 Must Do’s – a list compiled after a large public vote and published in what became a popular book.

This year, AA Traveller is presenting a new list of Must Do’s designed to excite Kiwis about exploring their country and becoming more engaged with is expansive natural heritage, history and adventures.

AA Traveller Marketing Manager Rhys James says the list this year was compiled by three editors who applied the original selection criteria requiring inspiring places, activities or events along with an additional filter.

“This year the emphasis on the new Must Do’s list is on encouraging people to get out there and start exploring right now,” Rhys says.

“We want people to be inspired to visit these places now, not some time in the future.”

Rhys says that in a country as diverse as New Zealand, keeping the list to just 101 places and activities is challenging.

“Being selective is extremely difficult and there are loads of extremely worthy places and activities not on this year’s list. We wanted a good balance between what people would expect to see on the list and some off the beaten track, right across the country.”

The Must Do’s list includes easy walks and days-long tramps, scenic drives with places to stop and specific destinations that cover a mix of family-oriented activities and some for the more adventurous.

“There’s a little of something from every region in the Must Do’s from the Te Paki sand dunes and Cape Reinga in the north through to Stewart Island and the Catlins in the south. Whether you prefer being active or just finding some place to chill out, we’ve got it covered with plenty of options.”

Summer activities also make the latest list. Held at Lake Taupo, Wanderlust is a four-day celebration of mindful living with music, meditation, yoga, hiking and workshops. It will be held from February 2-5 at the Wairakei Tourist Park.

The Marlborough Food and Wine Festival will take place on February 11 – New Zealand’s longest running festival and features wine tasting, great food and a range of entertainment.

For the complete list, visit the AA Traveller website.  

AA Traveller has helped Kiwis see the best of New Zealand for more than 100 years. It publishes and distributes more than three million guides and maps every year, and provides travellers with a wealth of information to inspire and assist them in planning travel and to make bookings at more than 1800 properties on the AA Traveller website or at any AA Centre.