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The best places in Australia and New Zealand for free tourist attractions

Kristine Tarbert
Kristine Tarbert

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You might be thinking of planning a quick getaway with the family, but worried about the costs adding up once you start looking at things to do.

That's where free tourist attractions can really help you save some bank. But you might be worried if they're actually worth a visit.

Turns out there are plenty of places in Australia and New Zealand that boast a lot to do, without needing to spend a cent, with travellers confirming they're not a dud.

After looking at what's on offer at popular tourist destinations, CashNetUSA has analysed traveller reviews and availability to compile a list of the top ten best places for quality free attractions.

And there are two Aussie states that really stand out.

Attribution: Getty
8. Adelaide
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8. Adelaide

Not only has Adelaide been ranked among the most liveable cities in the world, it's also a great place for free attractions. And around 72 per cent of free attractions have an average rating of 4.5 stars or more.

Attribution: Getty Images/iStockphoto
7. Auckland, New Zealand
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7. Auckland, New Zealand

Another spot in New Zealand that doesn't need to rack up the bills is Auckland. Close to 75 per cent of free attractions have an average rating of 4.5 stars or more.

Between a visit to Mount Eden, Viaduct Harbour and the Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki, you'll have plenty to do.

Attribution: Getty
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6. Brisbane
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6. Brisbane

Also offering 75 per cent of free attractions with an average rating of 4.5 stars or more is Queensland's capital Brisbane. You can visit the Botanic Gardens, a host of museums or simply enjoy a stroll along the river.

Attribution: Getty Images/iStockphoto
5. Dunedin, New Zealand
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5. Dunedin, New Zealand

Dunedin comes top in New Zealand (80 per cent of free attractions are highly rated), where tourists can pay a free visit to cathedrals, beaches and an incredibly steep street.

For adventurous souls, the "wild and windy" Sandfly Bay Track is a top-rated hiking trail on the Otago Peninsula.

Attribution: Getty Images/iStockphoto
4. Sunshine Coast
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4. Sunshine Coast

Again in Queensland, the Sunshine Coast and its host of seaside getaway options come in fourth place with 80 per cent of free attractions rating an average of 4.5 stars or more.

Attribution: Getty Images/iStockphoto
3. Gold Coast
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3. Gold Coast

Of course if the Sunshine Coast makes the list then the Gold Coast isn't far behind, claiming third spot with nearly 82 per cent of free attractions rating high with tourists. Of all the things to do in the holiday hot spot, four per cent are free.

Attribution: Getty
1. Hobart
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1. Hobart

Hobart in Australia leads overall: here, 86.36 per cent of free attractions have an average rating of 4.5 stars or more.

Free attractions on offer include art galleries (like the "wonderful" Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery), botanical gardens, museums and markets.

Attribution: Getty

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