The Must-Save Hidden Haunts To Discover Across New Zealand In 2026

New Zealand's otherworldly landscapes, celebrated wine regions, snowfields and outdoor adventures inspire more than 45 million domestic trips each year. Yet beyond the bucket-list attractions lies a wealth of hidden gems waiting to be discovered.

With a thriving restaurant culture, incredible nature experiences and local arts scene, there's always something new to explore across the North and South Islands. Stay at one of several Oaks Hotels, Resorts & Suites properties in Queenstown, Wellington or Auckland for the perfect base while you travel. 

Below, the Urban List team has rounded up the best hidden gems and insider secrets worth planning a New Zealand adventure around. From hidden cocktail bars to scenic walking trails, these are the kinds of discoveries worth sharing, and they could even inspire your entry into the Oaks Hotels, Resorts & Suites Hidden Gem competition. Read on for more info. 

Jump ahead:

• The North Island 
•  The South Island

The North Island

Kemuri Hi-Fi

Commercial Bay, Auckland CBD

Auckland's Commercial Bay Shopping Precinct has become one of Auckland’s best places to eat, drink and explore. It's packed with hidden laneway-style bars, local designers, and a buzzing dining scene just steps from the waterfront. But what you might not know is that it's also home to Kemuri Hi-Fi, an underground whisky and cocktail bar inspired by Japanese jazz cafes. Enjoy some of the best curated vinyl music in the city in this sultry and secret spot. 

Parnell Village

Parnell, Auckland

Image credit: Rhu | Instagram

A leafy local neighbourhood just outside the CBD, Parnell is filled with boutique stores, galleries, cafes and hidden dining spots. Spend a few hours exploring its charming streets before relaxing in one of its many restaurants and wine bars.

Insider's Tip: For an all-day eatery, head to Rhu, where haute cuisine is served in a relaxed setting. Our rec? You've got to try the fried chicken sandwiches and grilled cheese with mushroom pate. 

Maungawhau / Mount Eden 

Mount Eden, Auckland

One of Auckland’s most rewarding viewpoints is hiding in plain sight. Climb the dormant volcanic cone of Maungawhau for panoramic city views and a glimpse at the deep crater known as Te Ipu-a-Mataoho, named after the god of earthquakes and volcanoes. Then explore the surrounding village’s cafes, bakeries and independent shops to make a full day of it. 

Wellington Night Market

Te Aro, Wellington 

Held each week on Friday and Saturday night, this vibrant street food market showcases local vendors slinging everything from handmade dumplings and satay skewers to sweet treats and international flavours, while local musicians provide the soundtrack. This is one of Wellington's best after-dark secrets. 

Mount Victoria Lookout

Mount Victoria, Wellington

For one of the most impressive views of Wellington, locals head to Mount Victoria Lookout. This insider's favourite delivers sweeping 360-degree views across the harbour, city skyline and surrounding hills. Drive up for an easy golden hour picnic, or take one of the winding bush tracks through native forest for a more adventurous way to reach the summit.

Where To Stay

Whether you're planning a city break in Auckland or a long weekend in Wellington, Oaks Auckland Hotel, Suites & Residences and Oaks Wellington Hotel put you within easy reach of the city's best local discoveries. From tucked-away cocktail bars and neighbourhood villages to bustling night markets and scenic lookouts, you'll be perfectly placed to explore like a local—and perhaps uncover a hidden haunt of your own.

The South Island 

Moke Lake Loop Track

Moke Lake, Queenstown

Just a short drive from Queenstown, Moke Lake feels worlds away from the town’s adventure crowds. Surrounded by dramatic mountains, this peaceful alpine spot is perfect for a picnic, photography sesh, or an easy 6-kilometre loop walk around the horseshoe-shaped alpine lake. If you're visiting in summer, pack your swimmers for a refreshing post-walk dip.

Insider’s Tip: For killer photography, visit at sunrise or golden hour when the reflections on the lake are at their most spectacular.

Arrowtown Chinese Settlement

Arrowtown

Image credit: Arrowtown | Instagram

If you're staying in Queenstown, set aside time for a day trip to Arrowtown. A 20-minute drive from the city, this historic riverside settlement offers a glimpse into the region’s gold-rush past. Wander the restored cottages, charming sweet shops, quiet pathways and leafy surroundings for a slower-paced alternative to Queenstown’s adventure scene. Bonus points if you're visiting in August, when the landscape comes alive. 

Insider's Tip: You might be surprised to discover Arrowtown is home to a collection of stylish boutiques and local designer stores, so bring your shopping spirit (and leave a little room in your suitcase).

Gibbston Valley Winery

Gibbston, Queenstown 

While Central Otago’s wineries are famous, Gibbston is a sub-region known locally as the valley of the vines for its premium pinot noir. Our insider's pick of the bunch? Gibbston Valley Winery, the region's oldest founding vineyard, is also home to a renowned cheesery, deli and wine caves. While you're there, you can rent a bike and cycle along some of the top tracks in Queenstown, surrounded by rugged alpine scenery. 

Little Blackwood Cocktail Bar

Queenstown CBD

Image credit: Little Blackwood Cocktail Bar | Instagram

Tucked away on Steamer Wharf, this cosy cocktail bar is a local favourite for sundowners right on the waterfront. With a roaring fireplace, prime lake views and a drinks list focused on handcrafted cocktails, it’s the perfect spot for an apres-adventure Aperol Spritz, kiwi craft beer or a Gibbston Valley wine away from Queenstown’s busier nightlife scene.

Lake Hayes Walk

Wakatipu Basin, Queenstown

Often overshadowed by Queenstown’s bigger attractions, Lake Hayes is one of the region’s most beautiful hidden gems. About 20 minutes from the city, this scenic two-hour loop track winds around the glassy lake with panoramic views of the Remarkables, making it ideal for a peaceful morning walk or a relaxed afternoon wander. 

Where To Stay

Oaks Queenstown Shores Resort offer the ideal base for exploring everything from alpine lakes and world-class wineries to historic gold-rush towns and waterfront cocktail bars. Whether you're chasing adventure or slowing down to soak up the scenery, you'll be close to many of Queenstown's best-kept secrets.

There's always more to uncover across Aotearoa, and Oaks Hotels, Resorts & Suites makes it easy to stay close to the experiences that turn a good getaway into a memorable one. Whether you're sipping cocktails in an underground bar, wandering a lakeside trail or discovering a neighbourhood you've never explored before, your next favourite hidden haunt could be just around the corner.

Found a hidden gem of your own? Share it in the Oaks Hidden Gems competition for your chance to win a $5,000 Oaks Escape, and inspire someone else's next New Zealand adventure.

The Details:
The Prize: $5,000 Oaks voucher  
Dates: 13 July–31 August 2026
How to enter: Submit your hidden haunt from across Australia and New Zealand here for your chance to win. One winner will be drawn on 1 September 2026.

Editor’s note: This article is sponsored by Oaks Hotels, Resorts & Suites and proudly endorsed by The Urban List. To find out more about who we work with and why read our editorial policy here.

Image credit: Oaks Hotel | Supplied