The name New Zealand inspires pictures of mountains, glaciers, forests, pristine lands, and lots and lots of sheep. The country is the adventure capital of the world. Hiking, skydiving, caving, bungy jumping, skiing — everything here is geared towards getting you outside and doing something incredible.
Overview of New Zealand
Introduction
Backpacking New Zealand is one of the most popular activities in the world, with thousands of people making their way there on their round the world trip (backpackers sweep up those working holiday visas!).
Whether you’re a backpacker or just a budget traveller, New Zealand won’t let you down.
Head for the snowy mountains, make a beeline for golden coastlines, or soak up cafe culture in a friendly town. Diverse scenery and unique culture mean there is a wide range of distinct places to visit in New Zealand
Between the tips of Cape Reinga in Northland to the wild southern coast of Fiordland, New Zealand manages to pack in a vast array of attractions. Stay in one region to explore off the beaten track destinations or hop between the North and South Islands to see what different regions have to offer.
No matter how long you’re travelling for, one thing is for certain; you’ll never run out of places to see in New Zealand.
A Deep Dive Into Their Culture
New Zealanders are friendly and down-to-earth people who embrace the spirit of manaakitanga, or hospitality. With a patchwork history of Māori, European, Pacific Island and Asian influences, New Zealand’s population of five million people is a melting-pot of cultures.
Today, the population of New Zealand is made up of people from a range of backgrounds; 70% are of European descent, 16.5% are indigenous Māori, 15.1% Asian and 8.1% non-Māori Pacific Islanders.
Geographically, over three-quarters of the population live in the North Island, with one-third of the total population living in Auckland. The other main cities of Wellington, Christchurch and Hamilton are where the majority of the remaining Kiwis dwell. The name ‘kiwi’ comes from the curious little flightless bird that is unique to New Zealand.
In the early 1900s, cartoonists started to use images of the kiwi bird to represent New Zealand as a country. During the First World War, New Zealand soldiers were referred to as ‘kiwis’ and the nickname stuck. Eventually, the term Kiwi was attributed to all New Zealanders, who proudly embraced the moniker. Just like the bird, New Zealanders are unique, adaptable and a little quirky.
Festivals Around the Corner
In the South West of Pacific Ocean is this stunningly beautiful country called New Zealand. You must have heard of the happening festivals in New Zealand organized in different parts of its two mainlands – North and South Islands. New Zealand is a treat to the eyes with diverse scenic beauty having mountains, wide green pastures, lakes, rivers, beaches and even volcanic zones.
Just like its name, indicating a “new zeal” or new excitement, the country’s spirit is reflected in its hundreds of festivals celebrated throughout the year. These festivals are usually a celebration of New Zealand’s culture and its openness to other cultures. An amalgamation of great music, crazy food & beverage, vivid forms of performing arts and activities setup amidst breathtaking scenic beauty. Experience New Zealand’s native culture and thriving arts scene or enjoy an outdoor music festival set against a beautiful backdrop.
Plan your trip during one of the Cultural Events and Festivals in New Zealand. Experience one of a kind festivals, cultural performances and art exhibitions on offer throughout the year. There are a lot of fantastic events to attend each year but make sure that you see at least The Pasifika Cultural Festival, The Auckland Lantern Festival or The Parihaka Peace festival to get a taste of the diverse cultures in Aoteroa.
Locals
How can you embrace the spirit of Kiwi people?
Strike up conversations along your journey – a casual chat at a bar or restaurant or at a local market – it’s the best way to get insider knowledge on the area you’re visiting and you may even pick up the local Kiwi lingo and make new life-long friends!
Try out some words of Te Reo Māori – start with kia ora.
Take the Tiaki Promise to care for the land and respect the culture of the people. By sharing in the values of caring and supporting each other, showing hospitality, and protecting nature, you’ll soon blend in with New Zealanders!
Language
English is the predominant language and a de facto official language of New Zealand. Almost the entire population speak it either as native speakers or proficiently as a second language. The New Zealand English dialect is most similar to Australian English in pronunciation, with some key differences. The Māori language of the indigenous Māori people was made the first de jure official language in 1987. New Zealand Sign Language (NZSL) has been an official language since 2006. Many other languages are used by New Zealand’s minority ethnic communities.
Way of Dressing
New Zealand does not have a specific national dress. Customary Māori clothing is the only form of dress that is distinctive to New Zealand. Kahu (cloaks) give significant mana and honour to official occasions, such as royal tours and state funerals.
In Europe, national dress evolved from peasant or folk styles and was linked with nationalist movements. Many of these forms of dress, most notably the Scottish kilt, were brought to New Zealand by migrants.
Subtle details mark out Pākehā New Zealanders travelling overseas. In the 19th century these included a piece of pounamu (greenstone) on a man’s watch-chain. The 21st-century equivalent was a pounamu pendant.
Dance
The haka is a traditional dance of the Maori people of New Zealand, or as the Maori call it, “Land of the Long White Cloud.”
While the haka has been popularized for its association with the All Blacks, New Zealand’s national rugby team, there are actually many forms of the dance. The most widely known version, and the one used by the All Blacks, is the “Ka Mate.” Despite the seemingly fierce, warlike gestures on display, this is a celebratory dance and is accredited to Te Rauparaha, a leader of the Ngati Toa tribe during the early 19th century.
There are many of versions of the haka and historically the form was used for many different purposes ranging from greeting friendly tribes (powhiri) to preparing for battle (peruperu). There was also a divinatory haka (tutungarahu), as well as a funeral lament performed by women (maemae).
Music
The music of New Zealand has been influenced by blues, jazz, country, rock and roll and hip hop, with many of these genres given a unique New Zealand interpretation. A number of popular artists have gone on to achieve international success including Lorde, Split Enz, Crowded House, OMC, Bic Runga, Benee, Kimbra, Ladyhawke, The Naked and Famous, Fat Freddy’s Drop, Savage, Gin Wigmore, Keith Urban, Flight of the Conchords, and Brooke Fraser.
Pre-colonial Māori music consisted mainly of a form of microtonal chanting and performances on instruments called taonga pūoro: a variety of blown, struck and twirled instruments made out of hollowed-out wood, stone, whale ivory, albatross bone, and human bone. In the nineteenth century, European settlers brought musical forms to New Zealand including brass bands and choral music, and musicians began touring New Zealand in the 1860s. Pipe bands became widespread during the early 20th century.
Safety
New Zealand is a safe place to backpack and travel – even if you’re traveling solo, and even as a solo female traveler. There is a relatively low crime rate and the healthcare system is excellent. Take normal precautions like you would at home, like carrying a cellphone and being aware of your personal belongings at all times. Make copies of your important documents, like your passport. Forward your itinerary along to loved ones so they’ll know where you are.
The emergency number is 111.
Overall, you’re unlikely to encounter anything problematic here.
Always trust your gut instinct. If a taxi driver seems shady, stop the cab and get out. If your hotel is seedier than you thought, get out of there. If that driver picking you up seems weird, don’t get in the car!
If you don’t do it at home, don’t do it when you’re in New Zealand. Follow that rule and you’ll be fine.
The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong.
The Tiaki Promise
In New Zealand, we feel a special connection with the land we come from and a duty of care is instilled in us from a young age. The Tiaki Promise is a commitment to care for New Zealand, right now and for generations to come. We welcome all who come here to follow our Tiaki Promise to care for our future by helping to protect our land, our sea and our culture.
New Zealand’s Trip Planning
New Zealand is in the Southern Hemisphere, meaning when most North Americans are dealing with snow and freezing temperatures, Kiwis are enjoying their beaches. The climate is temperate. Summer is from December-February, and it’s the most popular time to visit the country. (Kiwis also take their holidays during this time, so things get busy!) Days are long and sunny, nights are mild. The average daytime temperature is 68-77°F (20-25°C).
Fall is from March-May, and it’s one of the best times to visit. The crowds have dispersed, prices are lower, and the weather is pleasant. Some areas still have very warm temperatures, like Auckland.
Winter is from June-August, and it’s a great time to visit if you’re into snow sports. Queenstown and the Central Plateau are winter playgrounds during this time, but especially in June and July! Temperatures on the South Island can drop as low as 50°F (-10°C). Spring (September-November) is also a nice time to visit, especially on the South Island. There’s really no bad time to visit, depending on the sort of things you’d like to do. Since New Zealand is so expensive, shoulder season is one of the best times to visit.
North Island trips
Your North Island itinerary can take in volcanoes, bubbling mud pools and shooting geysers, lazing on idyllic islands and exploring exciting metropolises.
South Island trips
Home to 10 of New Zealand’s 14 national parks, the South Island is known for its jaw-dropping alpine scenery, icy glaciers and fun wildlife experiences.
Important Documents To Carry
To ensure you have a memorable experience, it’s a good idea to make sure you’ve done your homework and have everything sorted before you leave.
Prior to your arrival, you’ll need to ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended departure date, and if required, have a valid New Zealand visa.
You will need to complete a Passenger Arrival Card before passing through Customs Passport Control. A passenger arrival card will be given to you during your flight. If not, cards are available in the arrival area.
When you check in you must show that you:
- have a valid passport or travel document, and
- hold the right visa or an NZeTA (New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority).
Australian and New Zealand citizens do not need a visa or an NZeTA.
For How Many Days
Normally, tourists from any country can holiday in New Zealand for up to nine months on a visitor visa. The fastest and easiest way to apply for a visitor visa is online. If you hold a passport from the UK, or another country under the visa-waiver agreement, you do not need a visa to holiday in New Zealand.
Main Airport Where You Land
Book a flight to New Zealand online or via your local travel agent. You’ll be enjoying stunning landscapes and meeting friendly locals in no time.
- Air New Zealand (national carrier)
- Cathay Pacific
- China Southern
- Emirates
- Thai Airways
- Malaysia Airlines
- Qantas
- Singapore Airlines
Most international flights arrive into Auckland Airport, located in the northern part of the North Island. Christchurch, Wellington, Rotorua, Queenstown and Dunedin airports also receive a small number of international flights.
Rough Estimate (Budget)
- On a budget, prepare to spend $80-105 NZD ($55-75 USD) per day. That will get you a hostel dorm room, bus transportation, happy hour drinks, plenty of free nature (but one or two expensive activities like bungee jumping or a scenic flight), and mostly self-cooked meals (around 70-80% of your meals). If you eat more or plan to do more activities, expect to spend more.
- For a more mid-range budget, expect to spend between $290-330 NZD ($195-220 USD) a day. This will let you travel carefree and basically do anything you want (within reason). Fly take scenic trains, tours, get private hotel/hostel rooms, and enjoy nice meals with wine. As long as you aren’t getting the most luxury of activities, you’ll be fine.
- A luxury budget of around $670+ NZD ($450+ USD) a day will get you four star hotels, any activities you want, wine tours, private guides, five star meals, and the best the country has to offer. You can also fly between cities on this budget or take a scenic train journey.
Travel Essentials During The Trip To New Zealand
Travel Packing List For Men
Clothes
- 1 pair of jeans (heavy and not easily dried, but I like them; a good alternative is khaki pants)
- 1 pair of shorts
- 1 bathing suit
- 6 T-shirts
- 1 long-sleeved T-shirt
- 1 pair of flip-flops
- 1 pair of sneakers
- 8 pairs of socks (I always end up losing half)
- 5 pairs of boxer shorts (I’m not a briefs guy!)
- 1 toothbrush
- 1 tube of toothpaste
- 1 razor
- 1 package of dental floss
- 1 small bottle of shampoo
- 1 small bottle of shower gel
- 1 towel
- Deodorant
Travel Packing List For Women
Clothes
- 1 swimsuit
- 1 sarong
- 1 pair of stretchy jeans (they wash and dry easily)
- 1 pair of leggings (if it’s cold, they can go under your jeans, otherwise with a dress or shirt)
- 2-3 long-sleeve tops
- 2-3 T-shirts
- 3-4 spaghetti tops
- 1 light cardigan
Toiletries
We have sorted out the best travel toiletries for you
- 1 dry shampoo spray & talc powder (keeps long hair grease-free in between washes)
- 1 hairbrush
- Makeup you use
- Hair bands & hair clips
- Feminine hygiene products (you can opt to buy there too, but I prefer not to count on it, and most people have their preferred products)
If you are searching for the perfect size toiletries containers, do read our article on Stylish Travel Size Toiletries Containers. This article contains every minute details that travelers should keep in mind before purchasing toiletries containers. Do check out!!! It’s Worthy!!!
Small Medical Kit For Both (safety is important!!!)
- Band-Aids
- Hydrocortisone cream
- Antibacterial cream
- Earplugs
- Doctor-prescribed antibiotics
- Tylenol
- Hand sanitizer (germs = sick = bad holiday)
Miscellaneous For Both
- A key or combination lock (safety first)
- Zip-lock bags (keeps things from leaking or exploding)
- Canvas bag/stuff sack (great for laundry)
- Universal charger/adaptor (this applies to everyone)
- LifeStraw (a water bottle with a purifier)
- Travel mug
Here are some links that may be helpful for you:
Multi-purpose Travel Mugs and Tumblers
Best Places To Roam Around
From glaciers to beaches, whale-watching to wine-tasting, New Zealand has so much to offer. Not sure where to begin? Get started with these places.
Try wine-tasting on Waiheke
Waiheke Island, Auckland
Home to a magical blend of vineyards, olive groves, beaches, art studios and funky cafes, Waiheke Island is an enchanting oasis. Sip New Zealand’s finest wines at one of the many vineyards while enjoying sea views.
Explore adventure in Queenstown
The Remarkables, Queenstown
Queenstown is the perfect place for an adventure. Experience jet boat rides, skiing, river rafting, hiking and biking, or go bungy jumping where it all began. Not for you? Try wine-tasting, spa treatments or alfresco dining for a relaxing alternative.
Say ‘kia ora’ to culture
Te Puia, Rotorua
Soak up Māori culture and hospitality in Rotorua, the cultural heart of New Zealand. Visit an authentic pre-European Māori village for a cultural show. After a delicious ‘hāngī’ feast, the thermal hot pools will be calling.
Bask in Milford Sound’s scale
Milford Sound, Fiordland
Depart from Queenstown or Te Anau and enjoy an afternoon cruise around Milford Sound’s dramatic fiords, spectacular waterfalls and snow-capped peaks. You can also see the “Eighth Wonder of the World” by flightseeing, kayaking or taking an overnight boat ride.
Explore geothermal phenomena
Te Puia, Rotorua
Geysers, boiling mud pools & huge volcanic craters are in Rotorua, where nature’s forces escape by bubbling, steaming & hissing from the inner earth. Discover the sights and wonders of this city sitting squarely on the Pacific Ring of Fire.
Recommended
Home of Middle‑earth™
When the first Lord of the Rings™ movie was released in 2001 New Zealand became known as the ‘Home of Middle‑earth™’.
New Zealand’s dramatic scenery, consisting of golden plains, towering mountains and enchanting valleys, plays a part in creating the mythical world of Middle‑earth™™ as seen in The Lord of the Rings™ and The Hobbit Trilogy™. When you visit Middle‑earth™™ you can explore the many film locations and join tours and activities for the chance to see the film locations for yourself and step inside the imaginative mind of Tolkien.
Explore adventure in Queenstown
The Remarkables, Queenstown
Queenstown is the perfect place for an adventure. Experience jet boat rides, skiing, river rafting, hiking and biking, or go bungy jumping where it all began. Not for you? Try wine-tasting, spa treatments or alfresco dining for a relaxing alternative.
Best Places for Honeymoon
New Zealand provides the perfect honeymoon destination or setting for a relaxing couple’s escape. Choose from romantic activities such as hot air balloon flights or hot pools, relax in boutique accommodations and enjoy exquisite food and wine. New Zealand’s remote regions are the perfect escape for newlyweds. Embrace the tranquility of sub-tropical beaches in Northland, where you can take plenty of sunrise beach walks.
Plan a honeymoon that includes a dash of adventure when you stay in Queenstown or opt to stay in vineyard for a luxurious and gourmet honeymoon in New Zealand.
1. Coromandel Peninsula: Pristine Beaches
Native forests, pristine beaches, warm hospitality, and the relaxed vibes of the Coromandel Peninsula make this place ideal New Zealand honeymoon locations.
Tourist Attractions: Kayaking and hiking at Hahei Beach, romantic walk from Hahei Beach to Cathedral Cove amidst the naturally formed cathedral-like arches, and digging and relaxing in your own spa pool at the Hot Water Beach.
Best places to stay: 970 Lonely Bay on Cooks Beach, Tairua Shores Motel, and Tatahi Lodge Beach Resort on Hahei Beach
Best time to visit: March-August for the Hot Water Beach; all year round for all other locations
2. Auckland: The Best City Life
A shopper’s paradise, Auckland has everything – from top-end designer wears to open-air street markets. A plethora of diverse cafes, exotic restaurants, and happening night pubs add to the experience of New Zealand honeymoon. You can also indulge in the exciting things to do in Auckland to explore the city in the best way!
Tourist Attractions: Dining at the 360-degree revolving restaurant – Orbit, skywalk around the Sky Tower pergola, sky jump off the Sky Tower, trekking up to the 260 m high summit on the Rangitoto Island.
Best places to stay: Hotel DeBrett, Sky City Grand, and Rendezvous Hotel
Best time to visit: October – March
Best Places For Family
A wide selection of activities for children, ranging from animal and wildlife experiences to nature-based activities and thrill-seeking adventures.
Discover some of New Zealand’s unique wildlife in one of the many animal parks and zoos. Meet the iconic white kiwi, see King Penguins at play on an Antarctic Encounter or swim with dolphins.
Budget-conscious travellers rest assured, family activities here do not mean you’ll always have your hand in your pocket. Walking and cycling tracks are endless, as are stretches of sandy beaches. Many museums and galleries are free or have a small nominal charge. You’ll have the opportunity to learn about the country’s rich Māori culture and history of the land.
Thrill-seekers won’t miss out; adventure is New Zealand’s middle name and many pursuits are suitable activities for kids. Zoom down a hill on a luge or in a Zorb, hit the slopes for skiing in winter, dart along a river in a jet-boat, or for the really brave at heart, bungy off a bridge or try a canyon swing.
Geothermal Delights
Underground volcanic and tectonic activities have been shaping our land for thousands of years. As a result, our natural hot pools – particularly around Rotorua – are popular with locals and visitors alike; a soak in the waters of Kerosene Creek or Waiotapu Stream is uniquely relaxing. Hell’s Gate has the only geothermal mud baths in New Zealand, while Polynesia Spa is world-famous for its lakefront mineral springs.
Best Zones For Adventurers
New Zealand is an extraordinary playground. Not only does it have every landscape you can think of crammed into an area the size of California (but with about 34 million fewer people), it also offers a dizzying array of activities, most of which can be easily accessed by a city (or even luxury) base. Here are 10 quintessential New Zealand adventures, with something for every level of derring-do and ability.
Try Bungy Jumping
Any adrenaline seeker worth their salt will do the 500ft Nevis Bungy Jump outside of Queenstown. If that’s too high, there are smaller ones in Auckland and Queenstown. The price of adventure isn’t cheap, however, with a single jump at Nevis costing $275 NZD ($190 USD).
Go Skydiving
Another popular adventure activity in New Zealand is skydiving. The best place for this is over Lake Taupo. It provides a stunning backdrop as you plunge to Earth from 15,000ft. A jump from 12,000ft will cost you around $ 300 NZD ($ 205 USD), while a jump from 15,000ft that includes video recordings, photos and T-shirts is $ 550 NZD ($ 380 USD).
Best Places To Hang Out With Your Friends
Farm parks, wildlife sanctuaries and underwater centres bring the natural wonders of New Zealand so close you can touch them. Feed, ride, watch and learn all about our farm animals and native wildlife.
Roller coasters, castles, water worlds and hair-raising rides offer hours of adrenalin-filled entertainment for the young and the young-at-heart. Adventure seekers will enjoy our downhill luges, car and motorbike races, jet boat sprints, and realistic simulator rides. Many of these experiences are found in Rotorua and are in close proximity to each other.
New Zealanders love water, which explains our great selection of water parks, with water slides ranging from fast straight runs to twisting and turning corkscrews in complete darkness. An abundance of geothermally heated water means that many aquatic parks are open year-round.
Those looking for a more sedate pace can enjoy scenic rides in gondolas and small forestry trains, as well as relaxing walks and wildlife spotting in beautiful garden parks. The fun-filled farming experience offered at Rotorua’s Agrodome has the best of both worlds – farm tours and sheep shows as well as jet boating and zorb rides.
Best Places For Solo Traveler
Solo travel in New Zealand is easy. The country is a perfect solo travel destination and is great for the first-timer. It is smaller than Australia, cheaper and really safe to travel around (plus you won’t encounter those strange souls in the outback). If you love the outdoors and adventure sports then this country is for you.
The country is popular for those on a working visa and as part of a round the world ticket combining Asia or the Americas on the way. People are down to earth and it’s so easy to travel New Zealand solo. You can even hitchhike if you get stuck (use your instinct if you do).
If you are travelling alone in New Zealand and want to make new friends on your trip, head to Queenstown, the country’s adventurous capital where you will find many other crazy backpackers like you.
There are choices of lodges, hotels, hostels or campsites and adventure tours to hop on hop off, or it’s just as safe to hire a rental car or a motorhome and just drive around the two islands. New Zealand is a wonderful country to explore independently but you may prefer to travel there on a group tour.
Recommended
Wineries in New Zealand
New Zealanders seem more refined than their neighbor and enjoy urban living, arts and culinary tastes. They also know their wine and Waiheke Island or ‘wine island’ (known for its countless vineyards) produces some great flavors and is less than a two hour ferry ride away from the city.
This place should definitely be on your list of things to do in New Zealand. You can also join food and wine tours from Auckland to sample some of the island’s best vineyards (and food).
Things To Do In New Zealand
New Zealand is jam-packed with things to do. The hardest part of planning your holiday will be deciding which to do first!
Exploring New Zealand’s magnificent landscapes and coastline tops the list for many. Fantastic cycling and walking trails dot the country from north to south or try kayaking, sailing or diving.
If you’re after New Zealand’s famous adventure activities and extreme sports, there’s a myriad to choose from. Bungy jumping a must-do; while rafting, jet boating, sky diving and zip lining offer a similar rush. Things to do in New Zealand are:
- Food & wine
- Film in NZ
- Golf
- Hot pools & health spas
- Maori culture
- Nature & wildlife
- Shopping
- Skiing & snowboarding
- Sports
- Tours
- Walking & hiking
Shopping
Go shopping in New Zealand and immerse yourself in bustling markets, artisan foods, designer labels and gifts infused with cultural uniqueness and beauty. If shopping is one of your favourite pastimes, it could easily occupy much of your trip. But then you’d risk missing out on all the other things there are to see and do in New Zealand.
New Zealand’s individuality is not only expressed through stunning landscapes and scenery. From gorgeous pounamu (jade) ornaments and jewellery, hand-crafted glass and local wood products, to beautiful merino or possum knitwear and sheepskins – you’ll easily find something special for even the hardest-to-please.
If you’re not limited to only buying gifts for others and want something for you, then indulge in a little retail therapy and seek out New Zealand’s world-class, home-grown designers. Karen Walker, Zambesi, Trelise Cooper, and Kate Sylvester are some of the well-known Kiwi labels on the international fashion circuit. And stores like Icebreaker, Untouched World and Macpac specialize in top-quality gears, perfect for exploring the outdoors.
Night Clubs
Things are meant to be prettier at night but when it’s the nights of New Zealand we’re talking about, things get an adventurous makeover! The island nation erupts with joy, music, and adventure with sparkling skyline setting things to perfection. New Zealand nightlife is a wonderful collage of moments spent partying with your buddies in happening discotheques, relishing a dinner at 328 m into the sky, walking a quiet bridge or bungee jumping into the void in Christchurch.
Cities like Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch have plenty of places that make the city a perfect den for party animals. If you are looking for an ultimate thrill, slip into the darkness of Waitomo Glowworm Caves or try to embrace the lights along firework, the night in New Zealand only gets better as the night progresses.
Recommended:
Dance the night away into the early hours on a superyacht
Superyacht ride is the perfect recipe for your night out in Auckland. A ride on the yacht means you would be venturing around the waters and soaking in the best of glittering nature around. To make things more interesting, there are bikini boats with bikini-clad girls at your service who make drinks for you and provide some exceptional hospitality.
Adventure
If you are an adrenaline junky like us and looking for the next kick, then pack your stuff and rush to New Zealand, the adventure island!
Skydiving, bungee jumping, convoying, rafting or bridge climbing – these activities will make your blood run cold and leave you with an unbelievably awesome feeling. If you’re more the relaxed type of person, you can also enjoy a horseback riding trip, go kayaking or dolphin watching. No matter what, New Zealand will blow you away with all its adventures!
Recommendation
Jump out of a plane over Queenstown!
If you were skydiving before, I don’t have to write much here because you know immediately how this feels, namely simply amazing!
In Queenstown, it will get a little cold due to gigantic mountains, but you will have a lovely view of ice-capped hills. The feeling is the same, every time. When they put you into the jumpsuit and the harness, you will feel your stomach prickle. They will give you a tandem master and then you go aboard. And the flight itself is amazing already! You get this incredible view on top of your jump. And in case you decide not to jump, there’s actually no way back as your tandem partner will jump for you.
Events/Shows
Although justly famous for action and adventure, New Zealand boasts a wide range of other activities and festivals to keep you entertained from dawn till dusk … and beyond!
New Zealanders love to celebrate, and you’ll find all manner of parties and festivals happening throughout the year. Wine, music, arts and crafts, sports, horse racing, dance and fashion, flowers, architecture, scallops and even huhu grubs take their turn – New Zealand loves to highlight its natural talents and bounty! So whether you are a fashionista, want to get a dose of Kiwi live music or sample colourful New Zealand cuisine, ensure you catch some of the country’s classic events.
Some iconic events are:
World Buskers Festival [Christchurch, Jan]: The 10-day frenzy of street theatre, clowns, acrobats and more. There are lots of Indoor and outdoor, day and night events held at that place.
Art Deco Festival [Napier, Feb]: Built in Art Deco style, Napier is the perfect place to celebrate the exciting razzmatazz style of Art Deco.
PASIFIKA [Auckland, Mar]: A kaleidoscope of events celebrating NZ’s Pacific roots. From Cultural performances and competitions to markets and Pacific-flavoured events, you will enjoy everything over there.
Historical Visits
New Zealand may be a young country, but the diverse wealth of Maori culture, performing arts, literature, museums and art galleries will leave even the most fervent arts and culture buffs completely satisfied.
If you want to understand what makes New Zealand tick, visit museums wherever you go. Finding out the why, where, how and who in any town or city adds an extra layer to your travel experience.
Each of our major museums has its own specialities. Auckland Museum is known for an impressive collection of Maori and Polynesian artefacts; Te Papa in Wellington offers a very modern, and often interactive, learning experience; Canterbury Museum has a strong focus on Antarctica;
Up and down the country there are places where time has stood still. Historic cottages and sprawling mansions, breweries and old hotels, Victorian cities and Art Deco towns – they’ve been preserved and protected to give you a glimpse of the past.
Recommended
Pounamu
It is considered a precious and powerful stone by Māori people. It is often carved into a pendant or necklace which carries special meaning for its wearer. Traditionally, pounamu, or greenstone, is regarded as a talisman. Māori designs and symbols carved in pounamu carry spiritual significance. More than just a beautiful art form, pounamu can represent ancestors, connection with the natural world, or attributes such as strength, prosperity, love, and harmony.
Cycle/Bike/Car Rides
With so many things to do and spectacular places to see, choosing how you travel around New Zealand is as important as choosing where you want to go.
If you want to travel between the islands of New Zealand, hop on a plane or ferry. Daily flights are available between domestic airports. Several passenger and vehicle ferries offer services between the North, South and other islands.
Getting around by road
Undoubtedly, one of the best ways to get around in New Zealand is via road and enjoying some of the most beautiful road trips in the world.
Self-drive a rental car or motorhome on one of our recommended trips, or take a bus or coach if you want to let someone else do the driving.
Getting around by public transport
An easier and budget friendly option to travel around in New Zealand is the public transport. Buses although are the main form of public transport in New Zealand, there are also trains and ferries. For travel between the islands, hop on a ferry. Several passenger and vehicle ferries offer services between the North, South and other islands.
Getting around by plane
One of the quickest ways to get around in New Zealand is by flying using domestic air services. Flights in New Zealand are easy to organize and makes air transport a popular choice for travel around the country.