January 28, 2016 TnH Global 0

Most Shared Spots in New Zealand on Instagram in 2015

Right from cruising through the magical fiords of Milford Sound to drinking award-winning wines amidst the stunning vineyards, this incredible country offers a diverse variety of unforgettable experiences. In this feature, we have listed the most geo-tagged and shared spots in New Zealand on famous social media platform “Instagram” for year 2015. TnH would like to suggest some of the instagrammed places where you must visit while on trip to New Zealand…

New Zealand is an island country in the southwestern Pacific Ocean. The country geographically comprises two major landmasses – the North Island (or Te Ika-a- Mui) and the South Island (or Te Waipounamu) and various smaller islands. This beautiful country is blessed with a large number of charming places which are just perfect for an Instagram photo that is much in trend amongst all kind of social media users.

Waiheke Island

Waiheke Island receives the largest numbers of local and international visitors in New Zealand. It is just 35 minute scenic ferry ride from downtown Auckland in North Island. Waiheke is home to a delightful blend of vineyards and olive groves, native forest, shining beaches, funky cafés and art studios. It is the best place to spend a relaxing afternoon sipping and swirling country’s finest wines and indulging in stunning beach views. It is best place to snap a shot at different locations. The most interesting fact about this place is that it is recently been named in Lonely Planet’s world’s top 10 regions to visit in the upcoming year 2016. Thus, Waiheke Island might certainly be a popular destination to visit next year.

Mount Maunganui

Around three hours south of Auckland, Mount Maunganui is the next in the list of famous places tagged in Instagram. The beautiful seaside town forms a picture perfect spot from the top of ‘the Mount’ and the ideal vantage point. It is also a good place for popular walk of tourists and locals as well. At the entrance to Mauao / Mount Maunganui, Tauranga Harbour – with its internationally recognized surf breaks, warm ocean waters and scenic white sand beaches. It has also long been a favorite Kiwi beach holiday destination for holidaymakers from around the world.

The Hobbiton Movie Set

The next place is the famous Hobbiton Movie Set, which is a Mecca for film fans who travel from far and wide. It is a 12- acre location that sits within gentle rolling hills on a calm country road close to the farming town of Matamata. It takes easy three-hour drive from Auckland to reach here. Moreover, it offers close ac- cess to other famous tourist destinations including Rotorua, Tauranga, Waitomo and the city of Hamilton. Hobbit holes lavishly, the Green Dragon Inn and the Party Tree make Hobbiton a must visit destination and to click stunning pictures.

Sky Tower, Auckland City

Soaring to the height of 328 metres in the heart of Auckland city, the mighty Sky Tower comes next on the list of famous Instagram spots. This impressive tower offers an amazing 360-degree view of Auckland city right from the twin Waitemata and Manukau harbors and across to the Waitakere Ranges in the west. Therefore, taking a photo here is must when you are at Auckland City.

Takapuna Beach

Another famous instagrammed location in New Zealand is the charming Takapuna Beach, which is just 15-minute drive from downtown Auckland. This beach is a perfect place to cool off and bath under the summer sun. Apart from clicking pictures of this beautiful beach, one can go for shopping at the Takapuna shops or just take stroll along the beach with having an ice cream.

Piha Black Sand Beach

Another popular beach on back to the North Island on Auckland’s famed west coast is the dramatic Piha black sand beach. This striking beach is about 45- minute drive from downtown Auckland. Grand Lion Rock stands guard over the wild coastline and its popular surf break, which is certainly a photo opportunity for photographers.

Lake Tekapo

The first entry from the South Island, the Lake Tekapo is a picture perfect location in New Zealand. This beautiful turquoise lake is surrounded by snowcapped mountain peaks including Mt John, which is the home of the Mt John Observatory. One of the interesting facts to know is that the Church of the Good Shepherd, which is amongst the most scenic little church buildings on the earth is located on the shores of this lake.

Lake Wanaka

Another one is the Lake Wanaka, which is located toward the Southern Alps that will make you awe. The striking glass like lake and lofty mountains is a photographer’s dream. There is also a renowned tree known as ‘That Wanaka Tree’ which has been shared on social media so many times that now it has its own hashtag (#ThatWanakaTree). One must click a photo here and share it with the famous hashtag.

Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa

The Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa takes place in list of most shared pictures on Instagram. In fact, this museum is a must visit place any tourist in Wellington. The museum represents a bicultural experience across five areas – Art, Mori, Pacific, History, and Natural Environment. In short, Te Papa Tongarewa is a special place that delivers a memorable experience for visitor of all ages.

To some up, the most popular photographs or locations that were top in the list of social media Instagram for the year 2015 were Waiheke Island, Mount Maunganui, The Hobbiton Movie Set, Sky Tower (Auckland City), Takapuna Beach, Piha Black Sand Beach, Lake Tekapo, Lake Wanaka and Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa. It is suggested that as a traveler, one must visit and explore the beauty of these places themselves.