New Zealand travel guide, including map of New Zealand, top New Zealand travel experiences, tips for travel in New Zealand, plus the best New Zealand driving ro
Remote, rugged and absolutely remarkable, New Zealand is top of many travellers’ wishlists. If it wowed you on the big screen in Lord of the Rings, New Zealand will knock you with the force of an All Blacks prop forward when you actually visit.
The two main islands – North and South – have different characters. North Island is warmer, with more rolling hills, beautiful beaches and some seriously sulphurous volcanic goings-on: visit Rotorua for the best thermal bath or Tongariro National Park to see still-active craters in an otherworldly landscape.
Dramatic South Island has the highest peaks, and glacier-carved fiords – a trip to Fiordland will show Mother Nature at her most artistic. Southerly Stewart Island (the best place to spot kiwis) and a few other outlaying atolls make up this nation – so best make your New Zealand visit a lengthy one…
You must not bring food into the country and any pre-used camping equipment/hiking boots etc must be declared at customs and, if necessary, cleaned before you’re permitted to enter.
Roads in New Zealand are quiet and generally good – it is easy to speed without realising it; obey the limit and watch out for sharp bends.
There are no poisonous critters in New Zealand so bushwalks are safe – just be sure to tell someone where you’re going if tramping alone.
Southern hemisphere summer (Dec-Mar) is the warmest and driest time to visit New Zealand – and the most popular: hotels get booked up and prices are higher. Winter (Jun-Sep) is the wettest and coldest time in New Zealand, but great for skiing; some hikes, for example the Milford Track, are closed due to snow.
The shoulder seasons of spring (Oct-Nov) and autumn (Apr-May) are lovely – the weather is still reasonable, popular sites are less busy and airfares are lower.
Auckland International (AKL) 25km from Auckland; Wellington International (WLG) 7km from Wellington; Christchurch International (CHC) 12km from Christchurch.
Getting around New Zealand is pretty easy. Domestic airlines serve small airports across the New Zealand – if you’re short on time, consider an airpass.
Bus travel is comfortable and efficient in New Zealand but can be time consuming; there are several backpacker-style hop-on, hop-off services you can use to access the main highlights. Train travel in New Zealand is a sightseeing option, rather than a practical one – routes are slow but generally stunning.
The best way to get around is by hiring a car or campervan – roads are quiet, rates are reasonable and you have maximum flexibility.
Cool campsites, hip hostels, boutique lodges, wilderness retreats, city hotels – all types of accommodation are available in New Zealand, catering for all budgets and tastes. Maori homestays are also a possibility, as are farmstays, where you get to help out with the animals.
Touring New Zealand by campervan is a popular option – there are many campsites to stop at. Much accommodation gets busy December-February – book in advance.
New Zealand cuisine is generally fresh, natural and tasty. Dairy, meat and fish products are world-renowned: try New Zealand lamb, grass-fed venison, Bluff oysters, local scallops, crayfish and hokey pokey ice cream (vanilla with crunchy toffee pieces). Manuka honey is another local specialty – great for toast and your immune system. For a traditional taster of New Zealand, try a Maori hangi, a meal of meat, spices and vegetables cooked in an underground, hot-rock oven.
Vegetarians will be fine in New Zealand (if jealous of the succulent meat and fish on offer). The local fruit and veg is good – don’t miss the kumara (sweet potato) and the kiwis. Most restaurants in New Zealand will be able to cater to vegetarians.
The drinks scene in New Zealand is equally good – don’t miss a tour of a local vineyard to sample some of New Zealand’s excellent vintages (for starters, try the sauvignons in the Marlborough region and pinot noirs in Otago), then sober up for a brewery visit: good New Zealand beers include Speights and Monteiths, plus there’s a wealth of microbreweries fermenting excellent ales.
No specific vaccinations are required for New Zealand. The UK NHS has a reciprocal agreement with the NZ health service but it is advisable to take out good health insurance: see www.wanderlustinsurance.co.uk.
The weather in general, and especially in the mountains, is highly unpredictable – it’s essential to be well prepared and properly equipped with warm, waterproof gear. The sun is exceptionally strong – make sure you apply high-factor sunscreen regularly. Sandflies can be a nuisance in summer.
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Wanderlust subscribers now receive a free £50 voucher valid on trips from a great selection of top tour operators
And the best bit is, this isn't a one-off offer, you get one every time you renew as well!
The £50 discount can be redeemed against one trip booking with one of our tour operator partners, by the expiry date printed on the voucher. The £50 can even be redeemed on top of any discounts our partners are already offering, ensuring Wanderlust subscribers get the best deal possible.
Simply quote your unique voucher code when booking to claim the discount. This offer is only available to Wanderlust subscribers.
UK subscribers automatically receive the voucher each year. Overseas subscribers receive it upon request.
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This fully inclusive 15 night escorted tour of New Zealand covers the highlights of this fantastic destination in comfort and style
Wexas Travel
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Between stunning volcanic landscapes, sub-tropical beaches and world-class wineries, this fly-drive holiday showcases the best of New Zealand's North Island.
New Zealand Sky
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15 nights from £1,719pp including accommodation, car hire and inter-island ferry (International flights not included). Highlights: Rotorua, Franz Josef glacier, Mt Cook National Park
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A comprehensive 23-day self-drive itinerary exploring New Zealand’s spectacular South Island, in search of its unique wildlife.
KE Adventure Travel
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All the hiking highlights of New Zealand's North and South Island and some unforgettable 'off the beaten track' experiences
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Flexiblity is the essence of touring in New Zealand and the following itinerary is no exception.
G Adventures
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Surf world-famous waves, experience a historic Maori village with a local guide, get the adrenaline pumping in Rotorua, dance the night away in Wellington.
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Discover outback life, Aboriginal culture and history, and view native wildlife on this introductory non-exclusive group tour to Australia. Watch the sun set and rise over Uluru (Ayers Rock) an...
Flight Centre
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Covering some of New Zealand’s best loved attractions, this compact Journey is well-suited to those with less time to spare. Covering the mountains and adrenaline sports of Queenstown, the geologic...
New Zealand Sky
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9 nights from £2,079pp including accommodation, internal travel, tour guide, mixed board basis, sights & excursions (International flights not included). Highlights: Auckland, Rotorua, Milford Sound
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This self-drive adventure for certified technical divers includes Tutukaka, Bay of Islands and Marlborough Sounds.
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Discover the spectacular landscapes of New Zealand's north and south islands on this fly-drive holiday, which includes a journey across the Southern Alps aboard the iconic TranzAlpine Express.
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This 24-night self drive around New Zealand in your own 4x4 takes you off into NZ's back country as well as visiting well-known sights, national parks and renowned hiking trails.
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Visit the highlights of North Island at your own pace on this self-drive itinerary between Auckland and Wellington. The tour takes in the pristine Bay of Islands, the wine-producing regions of...
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From the skyscrapers and galleries of Auckland and the geothermal Maori heartland of the north to the awe-inspiring glaciers and adrenaline-inducing activities of the south, this self-drive holiday...
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Travel from Christchurch to Queenstown on this small group trip to discover New Zealand’s South Island and its wild West Coast, rich with scenic charm and unique wildlife.
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Check out Hot Water Beach, feast on a hangi in a Maori village, let loose in Queenstown, cruise around the fjords of Doubtful Sound
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Discover New Zealand your way with this fantastic campervan journey. From the entrancing sounds, rugged coastlines and glacial valleys of the south to the volcano-carved landscapes, sprawling farml...
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Discover the very best of New Zealand's must-see highlights on this 2-week self-drive.
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This extensive itinerary is an ideal introduction to New Zealand for first time visitors looking to explore the country at their own pace. Travel the length of New Zealand to visit the main si...
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Discover New Zealand's South Island, bringing all to life with an included glacier heli-hike, an overnight Doubtful Sound cruise and a journey on the iconic TranzAlpine train.
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New Zealand Sky
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20 nights from £3,459pp including accommodation, internal travel and tour guide, mixed board basis, sights and excursions (International flights not included). Highlights: Rotorua, Franz Josef glacier
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This New Zealand Getaway, Travelmarvel by APT escorted tour offers great value and is ideal for those looking to see all the highlights of New Zealand in the company of others, with expert guides a...
New Zealand Sky
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7 nights from £1,659pp including accommodation, internal travel, mixed board basis, tour guide, sights & excursions (International flights not included). Highlights: Auckland, Bay of Islands, Rotorua
Cox & Kings Travel
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This extensive itinerary is an ideal introduction to New Zealand for first time visitors looking to explore the country at their own pace. Travel the length of New Zealand to visit the main si...
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Get outdoors and get active on this journey into New Zealand’s pristine wilderness. Follow the ever-changing landscape, from volcanoes and lakes, to mountains and glaciers, and breathe in the fresh...
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Snorkel in the beautiful Bay of Islands, surf world famous waves, learn about the Maori culture during a village visit, dance the night away in Wellington.
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A spectacular escorted tour combining luxury coach and railway journeys, lake and fjord cruises, taking in everything from city slicking and quaint township sophistication to New Zealand’s stunning...
G Adventures
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See bubbling technicolour pools in a geothermal park, Cruise through fjords, Spot glow-worms in the Waitomo Caves, Experience a traditional Maori dinner
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These non-exclusive escorted group tours with MoaTrek venture off the beaten track. Travel in spacious, comfortable coaches with up to 18 people, accompanied by knowledgeable local guides who s...
Flight Centre
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Jet off to New Zealand’s stunning South Island and discover its varied wildlife and beautiful coastline. Look out for whales and dolphins in Kaikoura and albatross in Dunedin, cycle the pretty coun...
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This combination of scenic road trips and day hikes takes visitors deep into New Zealand’s glorious landscapes. From Abel Tasman to Te Urewera National Park, you'll hike and drive New Zealand's out...
Flight Centre
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New Zealand plays host to some of the most incredible natural wonders you’ll ever experience. From towering snow-capped mountains to rugged coastlines, hauntingly beautiful fiords and majestic glac...
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Venture into the Australian bush, Stay overnight in an opal mine, See sunset over Uluru, Explore the Waitomo Caves, Enjoy a traditional Maori dinner
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This non-exclusive group tour offers a comprehensive tour of New Zealand, taking in highlights across the length and breadth of the country, from thermal pools and Maori culture in North Island...
G Adventures
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Cycle through stunning Karangahake Gorge, learn a traditional Maori greeting on the marae, hike the Tongariro Crossing — one of the world's greatest one-day hikes, kayak along the Whanganui River, ...
Flight Centre
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White-sand beaches, volcano-sculpted landscapes, the very vibrant Maori culture, unique architecture and award-winning wines - the experiences on offer in New Zealand’s North Island are as varied a...
Cox & Kings Travel
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Traverse New Zealand at your own pace on this self-drive itinerary, staying in some of the country’s finest accommodation, each with their own charm and plush features. These exclusive propert...
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With boutique hotel stays and car hire included throughout, this curated road trip perfectly showcases the unique cultures and natural wonders of New Zealand's North and South islands.
Flight Centre
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Get ready for a taste explosion on this gourmet Journey taking in the best of New Zealand’s flavour-filled towns and stunning countryside. Visit a traditional Maori village and take a food tour of ...
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This non-exclusive group tour takes in the enormous variety of scenery across New Zealand, from Auckland’s sparkling harbour to Rotorua’s geothermal activity, across to the rugged beauty of the wes...
Wexas Travel
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A self-drive tour through the stunning attractions of the South Island, with pre-booked stays in boutique hotels and exciting excursions including whale watching at Kaikoura, a TranzAlpine train jo...
G Adventures
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Kayak in the waters of Abel Tasman National Park, try exhilarating adventures in Queenstown, cruise through Milford Sound, cycle at the base of Mt Cook, hike the Routeburn Track.
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Enjoy a sunset cruise on a private yacht, take an interpretive walk with an aboriginal guide, get an exclusive tour of a research aquarium, witness thousands of glowworms lighting up the scenery
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Enjoy the independence and freedom of this motorhome holiday, discovering New Zealand’s spectacular scenic highlights and fascinating history at your own pace. Includes motorhome, pre-booked ca...
G Adventures
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Enjoy a sunset cruise on a private yacht, take an interpretive walk with an aboriginal guide, get an exclusive tour of a research aquarium, witness thousands of glowworms lighting up the scenery
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Tour New Zealand’s world-class wine regions, visit farmers’ markets selling a range of local produce, and discover artisan food producers and outstanding eateries. Work it all off on scenic cyc...
G Adventures
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Swim in the Great Barrier Reef, Go surfing in Byron Bay, Opt to visit Sydney's iconic Opera House, See glow-worms in the Waitomo Caves, Stargaze around Lake Tekapo
Cox & Kings Travel
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Combine the delights of New Zealand with the stunning natural beauty of the Cook Islands on this 18-day private tour. Begin by traversing New Zealand and taking in many of the highlights of the...
Cox & Kings Travel
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This non-exclusive escorted group tour with Moatrek ventures off the beaten track to offer a truly unique experience of New Zealand. Travel in spacious, comfortable coaches for 10-18 people acc...
G Adventures
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Cycle through stunning Karangahake Gorge, check out bubbling mud pools in a geothermal area, learn a traditional Maori greeting on the marae, hike the Tongariro Crossing — one of the world's greate...
Cox & Kings Travel
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The dramatic South Island offers a wealth of superb mountain scenery, glaciers, fiords and wildlife along its rugged coastline. This exciting private journey combines these natural highlights w...
G Adventures
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Cycle through stunning Karangahake Gorge, visit bubbling mud pools in a geothermal area, hike the Tongariro Crossing and Routeburn Track, kayak along the Whanganui River, try exhilarating adventure...
G Adventures
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Kayak in the waters of Abel Tasman National Park, try exhilarating adventures in Queenstown, cruise through Milford Sound, cycle along the remote rail trail in Central Otago, hike the Routeburn Track.
G Adventures
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Cycle through stunning Karangahake Gorge, check out bubbling mud pools in a geothermal area, learn a traditional Maori greeting on the marae, hike the Tongariro Crossing – one of the world's greate...
G Adventures
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Walk amongst giant kauri trees, spend the night anchored in a secluded bay, savour a traditional Kiwi barbecue in Paihia
G Adventures
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Learn about Maori culture, explore the Bay of Islands, trek the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, get an adrenaline rush in Queenstown, weave through the remote fjords of the Doubtful Sound by sea kayak.
G Adventures
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Sample wine with local experts on Waiheke Island, learn about Maori myths and traditions, experience the geothermal mysteries of Rotorua, glide along the TranzAlpine railway, relax at a rainforest ...
G Adventures
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Learn about Maori culture, surf some waves, get an adrenaline rush in Rotorua and Queenstown, discover Abel Tasman National Park by foot, cycle a historic rail trail
G Adventures
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Explore the trails of Abel Tasman National Park by foot, get an adrenaline rush in Queenstown, cruise through the remote fjords of Milford Sound, cycle the Otago Rail Trail
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