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Introducing New Zealand

Few destinations ignite the imagination the way New Zealand does. The diminutive two-island nation is filled with scenery best described as epic (think craggy peaks, vast beaches, dense forest, and crystalline fjords). And with the diversity of landscape come plentiful ways to take advantage of the great outdoors—hiking and biking are just the tip of the iceberg here. In one trip, you can immerse yourself in Māori culture in Rotorua, taste wine in the vineyards of Martinborough, and take a whale-watching tour off the coast of Christchurch. 

Where should I go in New Zealand?
New Zealand is split between the North Island and the South Island, each offering something different. While the North Island is more densely populated and famed for authentic immersion into Māori culture near Rotorua, it is also known for the bustling city of Auckland, stunning beaches of the Coromandel Peninsula, and famous landmarks from the Lord of the Rings movies such as Hobbiton. In contrast, the South Island is better known for the “adventure capital of the world,” Queenstown, and the surrounding natural beauty found among must-visit sites such as Mount Cook, the Mackenzie Dark Sky Reserve, and the fjords of Milford Sound.

When is the best time to visit? 
New Zealand’s rugged landscapes, natural beauty, and adventure-filled activities make it a spectacular destination to visit year-round. Between the months of December and March, you can expect bright and sunny days with temperatures ranging between 60°F and 75°F—the perfect weather to enjoy beaches, hiking, and other outdoor activities. New Zealand also makes for an exciting getaway between June and September, when snow arrives to beckon skiers and other winter adventurers to the South Island and the mountains of the North Island. Learn more

Things to do in New Zealand
Travelers are spoiled for choice when it comes to adventure in New Zealand. Cruise the iconic fjords of Milford Sound, Bungy jump off a bridge in Queenstown, immerse yourself in local Māori culture, or hike the skyscraping peaks of Aoraki Mount Cook National Park. Take a guided tour of the Franz Josef glacier, catch a glimpse of seal pups playing in the waters of Abel Tasman National Park, whale-watch in Kaikōura, or see the stars like never before at the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve—the largest gold-standard Dark Sky Reserve in the world. 

How many days do I need in New Zealand?
Whether your travels take you to New Zealand for one week, two weeks, a month, or more (and there's plenty to fill that time), you'll have lots of options for getting around. Tackle one of the country's famous "Great Walks," multi-day treks through dramatic landscapes immortalized by Lord of the Rings. Get up close with the Waimakariri River gorge and the snowy Southern Alps on a relaxing South Island train journey. Or rent some wheels and road trip from Auckland to Milford Sound, utilizing an inter-island ferry. The country may be small, but the possibilities are endless. Learn more

Getting around New Zealand
Most international travelers arrive by flying into either Auckland or Christchurch. Domestic flights serve every large and medium-sized city in the country, while self-driving allows access to more remote areas such as national parks and mountainous regions. To travel between the North and South Islands, you'll need to fly or take the car-friendly ferry between Wellington and Picton. Learn more

Ready to start planning your trip to New Zealand? 
Get started by telling us a bit about your ideal trip, and we will connect you to a local specialist to work out all the details.

Explore trips by duration: 5 days · 6 days · 7 days · 8 days · 9 days · 10 days · 11 days · 12 days · 13 days · 14 days · 15 days · 16 days · 21 days

New Zealand Tours & Itineraries

Get inspired by trips other travelers have loved
Fiordland National Park
Map of Highlights of New Zealand - 10 Days
Highlights of New Zealand - 10 Days

This action-packed itinerary dives into New Zealand's South and North Islands for a wide variety of landscapes and attractions. Kicking off in the adrenaline capital of the world, you'll kayak through the Milford Sound, explore the scenic capital (Wellington), take part in Rotorua's geothermal treatments, tour Hobbiton, and finish the adventure in the cosmopolitan city of Auckland.

Lake Tekapo, New Zealand
Map of Best of New Zealand’s South Island - 10 Days
Best of New Zealand’s South Island - 10 Days

This 10-day road trip in the South Island combines the best New Zealand has to offer. Discover jaw-dropping scenery here, including Lake Tekapo and its turquoise waters, Mt. Cook and the surrounding glaciers, the peaks of Mt. Aspiring National Park and the magnificent fjords. You will also enjoy more intimate and off-the-beaten-path experiences, including the exploration of the Banks Peninsula, with its active wildlife setting, as well as immersing yourself in the historical gold rush of the small town of Clyde.

Surf at Ngarunui beach in Raglan
Map of Highlights of New Zealand: From North to South - 15 Days
Highlights of New Zealand: From North to South - 15 Days

Traverse New Zealand on this two-week adventure-packed trip, covering the highlights of North and South Island. Discover diverse landscapes, from world-class surfing beaches, volcanic islands, and fern forests to geothermal waters, glacial fiords, and imposing mountains. Along the way, you'll visit historic mining towns, go wine tasting, hike, paddle, and fly your way across the country.

Check out the thermal lakes in Rotorua
Map of New Zealand's North Island Adventure - 7 Days
New Zealand's North Island Adventure - 7 Days

This self-drive itinerary hits the highlights of New Zealand's North Island with a wide array of activities and landscapes. Along the way, you'll explore Auckland's best neighborhoods, sip pours from local wineries, go swimming and kayaking, and take part in Rotorua's geothermal treatments and Maori culture—all within the span of a week.

Finish the trip in Queenstown for a slew of activities
Map of New Zealand's Ultimate Tour - 13 Days
New Zealand's Ultimate Tour - 13 Days

Perfect for first-timers, this 13-day itinerary covers an epic variety of landscapes and activities that only New Zealand could offer. Starting in Auckland, you'll head south, passing through glowworm caves, natural mud baths, and famous film sets. Stay a few nights in Wellington before continuing to the South Island for the country's highest peaks, incredible natural wonders (like Milford Sound), and—if you so choose—a range of adrenaline sports to amp up this Kiwi adventure.

Viticulture in Marlborough, New Zealand
Map of South Island Highlights & New Zealand Wines - 12 Days
South Island Highlights & New Zealand Wines - 12 Days

Travel through New Zealand's beautiful South Island, getting to know its cultural hotspots, famous landscapes and public gardens, and sprawling vineyards along the way. Over 12 days, you'll enjoy the cafes and fine art of Nelson, spend two days sipping wine in Marlborough, hike near beautiful Lake Wanaka and the famous Milford Sound, and more.

Make the Most of Your Time in New Zealand

Have a fixed number of days? Maximize the things to see and do during your visit
Aoraki / Mount Cook
How Many Days to Spend in New Zealand

Ten days is a great amount of time for a New Zealand trip: you'll easily experience the top highlights of both islands—North and South—plus outdoor activities and themed...

New Zealand Travel Advice

Read our detailed insights to make sure you have the best trip

New Zealand Hotel Advice

Unique places to stay, curated by kimkim specialists
Rotorua
Regent of Rotorua
4.8
(6)
· Luxury
Regent of Rotorua is a boutique hotel offering a modern stay near the city's main attractions. Rotorua Lakefront Broadwalk is an 8-minute walk from the hotel, and Kuirau Park is just a 12-minute walk away. When you're not out exploring the city, you can enjoy the hotel's eclectic mix of stylish...
Photo courtesy of M Social Auckland
Auckland
M Social
4.7
(7)
· Luxury
M Social Auckland is a modern and chic hotel overlooking the lively Princes Wharf and surrounded by an array of dining, entertainment, and shopping experiences. Here, you'll be ideally situated in downtown Auckland and near some of the city's top attractions, such as the Halsey Street Wharf, an...
Photo courtesy of Eliza's Manor
Christchurch
Eliza's Manor
5.0
(3)
· Luxury
Enjoy a comfortable stay at Eliza's Manor, a charming, eco-friendly heritage hotel in Central Christchurch. Located in a suburban area, this certified green hotel is also a historic building that maintains its heritage, making it a standout choice for travelers seeking a blend of old-world charm...

Best Experiences in New Zealand

Unique things to do, curated by kimkim specialists
Queenstown (NZ)
Skyline Gondola Ride
4.8
(8)
15 minutes
·
Ride in the Southern Hemisphere's highest cable car on the Skyline Gondola. Located at the edge of Queenstown, this gondola will take you up 1,476 feet (450 m) to the viewpoint at Bob's Peak, where you can soak in panoramic views extending to Coronet Peak and Walter Peak across Lake Wakatipu. For...
Queenstown (NZ)
Soak in the Onsen Natural Outdoor Hot Tubs
5.0
(3)
1 hour
·
Small group
Relax in style at the Onsen Hot Pools, a peaceful cliffside retreat overlooking the Shotover River Canyon. These cedar-lined tubs are filled with pure mountain water heated up to offer a soothing space where you can decompress with the best views in Queenstown. This self-guided visit includes...
Queenstown (NZ)
Historic Steamship Cruise to Walter Peak Farm + BBQ Dinner
5.0
(2)
4 hours
·
Small group
Travel back in time on this excursion to the historic Walter Peak High Country Farm, an 1850s sheep farm nestled in the foothills of Walter Peak. The journey begins aboard the TSS Earnslaw Steamship, a vintage steamer from 1912, which takes you from Queenstown to Walter Peak High Country Farm. A...

Our Latest New Zealand Content

Drive to some of the most scenic areas of the South Island on this adventure
Map of New Zealand Outdoor Adventure: Fiords, Glaciers & Mountains - 13 Days
New Zealand Outdoor Adventure: Fiords, Glaciers & Mountains - 13 Days

This 13-day New Zealand itinerary covers both islands using a variety of transportation methods, including a rental car. Start in Auckland, where you'll see otherwordly Rotorua and the Waitomo Caves. Then fly to Christchurch and take the TranzAlpine Scenic Train to Greymouth to pick up your car. After choosing between scenic tours at Franz Josef Glacier, head to Queenstown for horseback riding before cruising along Milford Sound to spot wildlife and get drenched under waterfalls.

Hiking with a view in Mount Cook area
Map of Active Highlights of New Zealand's South Island - 14 Days
Active Highlights of New Zealand's South Island - 14 Days

Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers, this two-week New Zealand trip embraces the wild beauty of the South Island. Start in the adventure capital of Christchurch and catch a ride on the TranzAlpine Train across the island. Then, it's time for a road trip, as you collect a rental car to reach Franz Josef Glacier, Queenstown, Te Anau, Milford Sound / Piopiotahi, and Aoraki / Mount Cook. Along the way, you'll kayak, jet boat, hike, cruise, and helicopter your way through ever-shifting landscapes.

Spot sheep in the snow-covered farmland of New Zealand's South Island
Map of New Zealand Winter Discovery - 14 Days
New Zealand Winter Discovery - 14 Days

If you plan to visit New Zealand in June, July, or August, this two-week winter trip includes the best of the North and South islands, with seasonal adventures like skiing and whale watching adding a layer of richness. Your self-drive journey begins in Queenstown with a snow day and a Milford Sound / Piopiotahi tour. Journey north to Picton via Aoraki / Mount Cook, Christchurch, and Kaikoura, then cross between the islands by ferry to see the best of temperate Wellington, Rotorua, and Auckland.

New Zealand Travel Maps

Get the lay of land, and understand distances between the places you want to visit
Map 10 Days in New Zealand - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
10 Days in New Zealand - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
View article
Map 7 Days in New Zealand - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
7 Days in New Zealand - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
View article
Map 2 Weeks in New Zealand - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
2 Weeks in New Zealand - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
View article

Meet our Local Travel Specialists

Experienced travel agents with a passion for New Zealand
Travel specialist Liz Neal
active 1 min ago

Liz Neal

I have been involved in the travel industry since my first job out of college, working for hotels, travel companies and for the last 8 years in Springboard Vacations. I approach my customer's...

read more...
Travel specialist Franck Lemaitre
active 7 hours ago

Franck Lemaitre

My name is Franck I am the founder of Once Upon a Trip and I am originally French. We had our honeymoon in NZ back to 2003, we felt in love with the country, then we decided to come back in 2009...

read more...
Travel specialist Connie Campos
active 2 hours ago

Connie Campos

I have travel to Australia and New Zealand every year, and I've been to all the places you are looking to visit so I can speak to you from experience and first-hand knowledge.

read more...
Travel specialist Ruth Grau
active 9 hours ago

Ruth Grau

I grew up in small outback towns in South Australia before starting in the travel industry in Adelaide. After working many years in Sales & Marketing with tour companies, wholesalers and airlines,...

read more...

Related Destinations

Travelers who visit New Zealand also visit these destinations

Why travelers love kimkim

Custom trips for independent travelers who are too busy to plan

Customize your trip with the help of a local travel specialist

Kimkim has handpicked the world’s top local travel specialists so you will have peace of mind and an unforgettable trip that meets your exact requirements.

Authentic travel experiences

Kimkim’s local specialists ensure that you will have the best experience based on up-to-date local insights. On top of that, the vast majority of your money will go straight to support and grow local economies.

Secure & easy booking

Once you are happy with the trip, you can easily book via kimkim’s secure payment platform.

Local support during your trip

You can always reach your local specialist with a quick message or call in case you hit a snag during your trip, or simply want some great local recommendations.

100% satisfaction guarantee
Kimkim offers a 100% satisfaction guarantee. If you are not fully satisfied with us, we’ll work with you to make it right.
kimkim trips are 100% climate neutral
A portion of every kimkim trip goes toward the removal of carbon from the atmosphere. Learn more
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Kimkim is accredited by the Better Business Bureau with an A+ rating.

Seller of Travel Registration number: CST #2136279-40.
Registration as a seller of travel does not constitute approval by the State of California.

Trip Reviews for New Zealand

The latest reviews by travelers who booked their trip on kimkim

Our first road trip in many years was a success!
New Zealand | Feb 29 - Mar 17, 2024

A
Andrew S.
Encinitas, CA | Reviewed on Mar 18, 2024
Our first road trip in many years was an amazing 18 day journey through the north and south Islands of New Zealand. Our trip planner, Asko, spent several months working with us to plan an excellent itinerary that hit all of the things we wanted to experience in this amazing country, while giving us the flexibility to modify the activities and sights based on how much we felt like doing each day. We saw fjords with glaciers and snow capped mountains, waterfalls, hot springs and we hiked in... Read more

Our first road trip in many years was an amazing 18 day journey through the north and south Islands of New Zealand. Our trip planner, Asko, spent several months working with us to plan an excellent itinerary that hit all of the things we wanted to experience in this amazing country, while giving us the flexibility to modify the activities and sights based on how much we felt like doing each day. We saw fjords with glaciers and snow capped mountains, waterfalls, hot springs and we hiked in forests. We stopped in all kinds of small towns and big cities. At every location we were able to experience something new, and the hotels and food were the best available, and often 5 star quality. There is a wonderful spirit in this country and we were able to meet and interact with many locals and fellow travelers. Thanks to Asko we have great memories of a special country. Thanks!

Hotel Reviews
Pullman Rotorua
Rotorua

Another great high end hotel near all the things you can walk to see.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hilton Lake Taupo
Taupo

High end classy hotel with heated pool, sauna steam room and nice restaraunt.

Powderhorn Chateau
Ohakune

Nice older hotel made of pine logs. Unique country feel. Friendly staff. Indoor heated pool. Attached restaurant looks like a fun party place during ski Eason.

Sofitel Wellington
Wellington

Another nice hotel

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hotel Montreal
Christchurch

Nice hotel

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Fable Auckland
Auckland

Great hotel in the middle of downtown action. Close to shopping and the ferries. Parking is not close.

Authenticity & Character
Location
The only downside was a lack of parking, and it was a bit hard to park in front. We later learned that valet parking was an option, although it was not offered by the staff when we pulled up in our car.
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hermitage Hotel
Mount Cook Village

AMAZING HOTEL IN AN AMAZING PLACE!!!!

Authenticity & Character
WOW
Location
WOW
Staff
WOW
Cleanliness & Comfort
WOW
Fable Dunedin
Dunedin

An unusual hotel. Serious money was spent on quality materials and furnishings. However our room in the back. was very dark and difficult to get to because the elevator didn’t go there, so we had to carry our luggage up a flight of stairs. It looked as if two older buildings were combined to make the hotel.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Rooms in back are dark and hard to get to.
Distinction Luxmore Hotel
Te Anau

This hotel was the only disappointment. While the room was relatively big and clean and everything worked, the pink plastic walls and yellow plastic everywhere showed that it was cheaply furnished long ago and in serious need of updating to the standards we found everywhere else. At best, a place to sleep right next door to the bus tour pickup point for the spectacular Milford Sound. On the plus side, the attached buffet restaurant had a top quality buffet breakfast and dinner.

Authenticity & Character
Redecorate and update the quality of the rooms.
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Everything needs to be updated and redecorated.
Sofitel Queenstown
Queenstown

Every detail was of the highest international standard. A treasure!

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
The Gourmet Food & Wine Tour
The Gourmet Food & Wine Tour
Auckland

The ferry ride was nice. We enjoyed visiting the wineries and chatting with the people who work there. The scenery was beautiful.

Quality of Experience
Food
Mostly snack size bites were not really lunch….
Guides, Drivers and Staff
The Te Pō  Indigenous Experience
The Te Pō Indigenous Experience
Rotorua

So glad to support the preservation of Māori culture. That said, the presentation had 2 parts, the first was an excellent explanation of the culture prior to contact with western culture. The musical portion however, seemed to be a mix of western music and Luau style entertainment, which I thought was designed to present what might entertain rather than educate. The buffet was good, and the geyser was a natural wonder.

Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Meet Yellow Eyed Penguins
Meet Yellow Eyed Penguins
Dunedin

Didn’t see any wild penguins, but the ones in the rehab facility were cute. Glad to support

Amazing Milford Sound Day tour
Amazing Milford Sound Day tour
Te Anau

WOW! A must see for anyone visiting the area.

Local specialist: Asko Merilainen

Vickie put an enormously epic trip together f...
New Zealand | Feb 15 - Mar 14, 2024

L
Lea K.
Los Angeles, CA | Reviewed on Mar 15, 2024

Vickie put an enormously epic trip together for us with nary a flaw. From the first minute to the last everything was timed exactly right and the events and accommodations were perfect. She was available to us on a moment’s notice and always went the extra yard to provide yet another thoughtful gesture. You can hear the smile in her voice with every message. She showed us why NZ is a special country and she did magic to provide reasons (excuses) to return. She will go down in history with our memories of the holiday. Thank you!!

Local specialist: Vickie Parrack
Vickie
Vickie Parrack
Local specialist in Wanaka | Replied on Mar 16, 2024

Thank you so much for such a wonderful review and all the lovely messages you sent me whilst you were traveling. I am so happy that you loved New Zealand and all the wonderful experiences. If you ever need anything in the future please let me know :).

All the best to you and Charlie!

Vickie

Harriet's New Zealand
New Zealand | Feb 25 - Mar 10, 2024

Laura
Laura C.
New Canaan, CT | Reviewed on Mar 13, 2024
Harriet was completely on target with both her recommendations and her alerts. We enjoyed every destination enormously and only wish we had more time to have fully enjoyed some of them. Harriet pointed out that our itinerary was aggressive (by our request), and it was! We wouldn't have changed it. Overnight on the Milford Sound was the highlight of a trip full of highlights. TSS Earnslaw in Queenstown was an unexpected pleasure. The Glow Worm tour with Steven at Real Rotorua was a personal... Read more

Harriet was completely on target with both her recommendations and her alerts. We enjoyed every destination enormously and only wish we had more time to have fully enjoyed some of them. Harriet pointed out that our itinerary was aggressive (by our request), and it was! We wouldn't have changed it. Overnight on the Milford Sound was the highlight of a trip full of highlights. TSS Earnslaw in Queenstown was an unexpected pleasure. The Glow Worm tour with Steven at Real Rotorua was a personal favorite--informative and intimate in size. Napier, the Blenheim wineries, Aoraki Mt. Hood, Te Anau, Christchurch, Queenstown, Franz Josef...none disappointed! Car rental in Auckland was difficult, time-consuming, inefficient, frustrating. We were warned of long lines at that rental location, but it was not a well-run branch. All of our accommodations were exceptional or very good. We recommend Harriet and KimKim 100%.

Activity Reviews
TSS Earnslaw Farm Tour & Dinner
TSS Earnslaw Farm Tour & Dinner
Queenstown (NZ)

The sheep shearing, working dog exhibition, buffet dinner, gardens, transport by steamship were all unexpected and excellent.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Milford Mariner Overnight Cruise ex Milford
Milford Mariner Overnight Cruise ex Milford
Milford Sound

THE TRIP HIGHLIGHT!

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Historic Tram Dinner
Historic Tram Dinner
Christchurch

Good food and fun. Touristy in the very best way.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Kaikoura
Kaikoura
Kaikoura

Kaikoura was a pit-stop for us, but along the drive we saw a HUGE dolphin pod feeding. Dolphins were swirling, breaching--it was quite amazing.

Quality of Experience
Explore Napier & Hawke's Bay
Explore Napier & Hawke's Bay
Napier

Accommodation was mind-blowingly good. Napier locale is beautiful, art deco town rivals Miami Beach, Bluff Hill is beautiful--it would have been easy to spend more time here.

Quality of Experience
Real Rotorua - Nocturnal Adventure Glow-Worm Tour
Real Rotorua - Nocturnal Adventure Glow-Worm Tour
Rotorua

My personal trip highlight. I was looking forward to seeing Glow-Worms, but the experience far exceeded even my high expectations.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Hobbiton Tour
Hobbiton Tour
New Zealand

I had low expectations of this. I expected it to be kitschy and silly. Instead, the gardens were beautiful, the guide was entertaining, and I enjoyed far more than I thought I would.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Auckland Harbour Dinner Cruise
Auckland Harbour Dinner Cruise
Auckland

Crew was personable but the food was awful.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Crew was friendly.
Transport
Under-whelming sail and views.
Local specialist: Harriet McGregor