Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools & Spa has been confirmed as New Zealand’s favourite ‘Must-Do’ according to AA Tourism’s iconic survey.
The six week voting campaign clocked up a staggering 283,000 votes split over 1600 attractions from the Far North to the deep South and everywhere in between.
The top 10 winners were evenly split between the North and South Islands, whereas the top 25 ranks were dominated by North Island attractions.
Voters showed a preference towards South Island scenic cruises, healing thermal waters and spectacular scenic ranges nationwide.
Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools & Spa in Canterbury was voted #1, followed by Rotorua’s Polynesian Spa, Akaroa’s Harbour Nature Cruises and Heliview Taranaki. Ranking fifth is The Otago Rail Trail.
GM Marketing for AA Tourism, Rebecca Cherry, cites the new list as a reflection of our evolving tourism industry.
“Many firm favourites were knocked off their perches by some surprising newcomers, however, the overriding winner is New Zealand tourism and that’s what this campaign has been all about so we’re hailing it as a huge success.”
“Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools & Spa has cemented its position as one of our favourite iconic tourism experiences. Our congratulations go out to their team and to all of the attractions that have made it onto the top 101.
“The new list is a nod towards the increasing popularity of family- friendly soft adventures rather than adrenalin- pumping activities often associated with New Zealand, like bungy jumping. It’s great to see so many new activities voted onto the list,” adds Ms Cherry.
WOMAD has taken centre stage at #17 as the most highly voted for event. Closely following at #20 is Coromandel’s Waterworks which has entered the list with a big splash.
As a quirky twist to the rankings, two iconic Kiwi sweet treats made their debut - Pineapple Lumps (#60) and Pavlova (#98).
As further inspiration to explore New Zealand, AA Tourism are launching voucher books crammed full of unique offers for both the South and North Island attractions in conjunction with their 101 Must-Do’s list. These will be distributed via AA Centres, Caltex Service Stations and selected rental car and campervan operators.
To see both the original and the new list of AA Tourism’s 101 Must-Do’s for Kiwis visit www.aatravel.co.nz/101
