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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.

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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.

A hobbit hole in Matamata's Hobbiton on New Zealand's North Island
Map of New Zealand's North Island - 6 Days
New Zealand's North Island - 6 Days

From Auckland to Taupo, this six-day itinerary presents the highlights of the North Island's diverse and dramatic landscapes. You'll trek amid emerald lakes and ancient volcanoes, explore The Shire from "Lord of the Rings," and discover the sacred thermal waters of Wai-O-Tapu.

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
Photo courtesy of M Social Auckland
Auckland
M Social
4.8
(19)
· 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...
Queenstown (NZ)
The Rees Hotel
4.7
(11)
· Luxury
Enjoy a luxurious stay at The Rees Hotel Queenstown, located on the shores of Lake Wakatipu on New Zealand's South Island. This lakeside retreat is a 6-minute drive from the city center, and the hotel offers a courtesy shuttle to take you to the center whenever you like. At the hotel, you'll be...
Photo courtesy of The Hotel Britomart
Auckland
The Hotel Britomart
4.8
(6)
· Luxury
The Hotel Britomart, with its hand-made brick exterior and timber-lined interior, is a luxury property in downtown Auckland. This hotel provides an urban retreat on the city's waterfront, blending modern comforts with an authentic historical feel. Its central location places you within proximity...

Best Experiences in New Zealand

Unique things to do, curated by kimkim specialists
Queenstown (NZ)
Historic Steamship Cruise to Walter Peak Farm + BBQ Dinner
5.0
(6)
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...
Queenstown (NZ)
Skyline Gondola Ride
4.7
(14)
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)
Explore the Dart River on a Jetboat + Ancient Forest Walk
5.0
(3)
4 hours
·
Small group
Explore the wilderness surrounding Queenstown with this exhilarating jetboating excursion through the Dart River braided river system. Your guide will take you through the ever-changing shallow channels of the Dart River, and you'll stop along the way to disembark and walk through ancient beech...

Our Latest New Zealand Content

Drive at your own pace around the scenic Coromandel Peninsula
Map of New Zealand North Island Highlights - 14 Days
New Zealand North Island Highlights - 14 Days

Explore the best of New Zealand's North Island with this two-week trip combining remote scenery, Maori culture, and famous film locations. Start in Auckland, where you'll sail across the picturesque harbors and explore the Waitakere Ranges. Then, pick up your rental car and begin an exciting road trip to the Coromandel Peninsula, Hobbiton, Rotorua, and Lake Taupo. Continue onto Napier, where the wineries of Hawke's Bay await, and finish with two days in the walkable capital, Wellington.

Jet boat down the Shotover River and explore the nearby gold rush town of Arrowtown on this 11-day New Zealand road trip
Map of New Zealand Explorer: Road Trip Across the North & South Islands - 11 Days
New Zealand Explorer: Road Trip Across the North & South Islands - 11 Days

This scenic self-drive adventure through New Zealand gives you a glimpse of both the North and South islands over 11 days. Starting in Christchurch, explore the city then start your road trip south to Aoraki / Mount Cook, the country's highest mountain. Take a scenic flight over ice falls and glaciers, and continue to Wanaka and Queenstown. Cruise across Milford Sound / Piopiotahi and get your thrills with a jet boat ride, then fly to the North Island for a quick taste of Auckland and Rotorua.

The drive toward Hawkes Bay takes you to a landscape of world-class wineries and independent farms
Map of Sustainable New Zealand Road Trip: An Eco-Friendly Journey from Auckland to Queenstown - 13 Days
Sustainable New Zealand Road Trip: An Eco-Friendly Journey from Auckland to Queenstown - 13 Days

New Zealand is a fabulous country for a road trip, with scenery that makes the journey truly the destination. This 13-day itinerary is geared up for electric vehicles to make your trip more sustainable. As you wind your way south from Auckland to Queenstown, you'll enjoy meals from ingredients harvested on-site, wine purchased from the source, and increasingly eco-friendly and carbon-neutral activities on a trip that seeks to both showcase and preserve New Zealand's powerful natural heritage.

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
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Map 2 Weeks in New Zealand - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
2 Weeks in New Zealand - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
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Meet our Local Travel Specialists

Experienced travel agents with a passion for New Zealand
Travel specialist Liz Neal
active 5 hours ago

Liz Neal

I have been involved in the travel industry since my first job out of college, working for hotels, airlines and travel companies which allow me to know the industry from all sides. I approach my...

read more...
Travel specialist Vicky Steinhardt
active 36 mins ago

Vicky Steinhardt

Hey there! I'm Vicky, and travel is my passion. I consider myself incredibly fortunate to have dedicated my entire career to the travel industry. Melbourne-born, my journey led me to live in the...

read more...
Travel specialist Paula Adams
active 1 min ago

Paula Adams

I grew up in a very small rural town called, Humpty Doo which is 30 minutes outside of the city of Darwin, in the Northern Territory. I lived the true outback life with wallabies jumping in my...

read more...
Travel specialist Franck Lemaitre
active 23 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...

Related Destinations

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Trip Reviews for New Zealand

The latest reviews by travelers who booked their trip on kimkim

Most memorable: Milford sound cruise,Hobbit...
New Zealand | Apr 7 - Apr 17, 2025

N
Nancy W.
Chicago, IL | Reviewed on Apr 27, 2025
Most memorable: Milford sound cruise,
Hobbiton, Mt. cook hikes, wine and food ferry tour
Read more

Most memorable: Milford sound cruise,
Hobbiton, Mt. cook hikes, wine and food ferry tour

Activity Reviews
The Gourmet Food & Wine Tour
The Gourmet Food & Wine Tour
Auckland
Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
The Te Pō  Indigenous Experience
The Te Pō Indigenous Experience
Rotorua
Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Milford Sound overnight cruise
Milford Sound overnight cruise
New Zealand

First class food and rooms

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
60 Minute Jet Boat
60 Minute Jet Boat
Queenstown (NZ)
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Mt Cook to Christchurch Small Group Tour Via Lake Tekapo (One Way)
Mt Cook to Christchurch Small Group Tour Via Lake Tekapo (One Way)
Aoraki / Mount Cook Village

The van’s A/C did not seem to be working so he put it on high which was deafening. We still suffered from heat

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
The van’s air conditioning
Hobbiton, Waitomo caves and Auckland
Hobbiton, Waitomo caves and Auckland
Rotorua
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Asko Merilainen
Asko
Asko Merilainen
Local specialist in Melbourne, Australia | Replied on Apr 28, 2025

Thank you for your feedback! I'm delighted to know you had a wonderful trip to New Zealand. It was a pleasure to help plan your journey.

A Trip of a Lifetime
New Zealand | Mar 17 - Apr 7, 2025

Edward
Edward S.
Happy Valley, OR | Reviewed on Apr 26, 2025
Monika was extremely helpful in ensuring we had a wide-ranging, fantastic experience on both the North and South Islands of New Zealand. Whether it was horseback riding, hiking, and overnight cruises through the Fiordland; movie studio tours, and winery excursions, and whale watching; and everything in between, we were always paired with tour providers and accommodations that were clearly high quality and dedicated to providing meaningful and memorable experiences. In the infrequent times... Read more

Monika was extremely helpful in ensuring we had a wide-ranging, fantastic experience on both the North and South Islands of New Zealand. Whether it was horseback riding, hiking, and overnight cruises through the Fiordland; movie studio tours, and winery excursions, and whale watching; and everything in between, we were always paired with tour providers and accommodations that were clearly high quality and dedicated to providing meaningful and memorable experiences. In the infrequent times where there were any logistical hiccups, Monika was immediately responsive to get us back on track. All told, our three weeks were absolutely memorable and magical.

Local specialist: Monika Vinsova
Monika
Monika Vinsova
Local specialist in Queenstown, New Zealand | Replied on Apr 28, 2025

Dear Edward and Jen,

Thank you so much for your kind words. I'm so glad to hear that your return to New Zealand, Edward, was everything you had hoped for, and that you were able to share those special experiences with Jen this time around. It was a real pleasure putting your trip together, and knowing that each moment created lasting memories makes it all the more rewarding.

Thank you again for trusting me with your adventure. I wish you many more incredible journeys ahead, and I’d be delighted to help whenever New Zealand calls your name again.

Warmest regards,
Monika

A fabulous three weeks in New Zealand!
New Zealand | Mar 28 - Apr 17, 2025

John
John L.
Boston, MA | Reviewed on Apr 24, 2025
We enjoyed a fabulous three weeks in New Zealand thanks to Monika's guidance and efforts to develop an itinerary that met all of our requests. It began in Queensland and a memorable flight and cruise to Milford Sound., definitely a "not-to-be-missed"! It continued through small towns - Clyde, Lake Tekapo, Kaikoura, Taupo, Raglan, Coromandel - and cities - Christchurch, Wellington, Auckland - and included a variety of activities - cycling, a cultural food tour, surfing, hiking, sailing. ... Read more

We enjoyed a fabulous three weeks in New Zealand thanks to Monika's guidance and efforts to develop an itinerary that met all of our requests.

It began in Queensland and a memorable flight and cruise to Milford Sound., definitely a "not-to-be-missed"! It continued through small towns - Clyde, Lake Tekapo, Kaikoura, Taupo, Raglan, Coromandel - and cities - Christchurch, Wellington, Auckland - and included a variety of activities - cycling, a cultural food tour, surfing, hiking, sailing. Unfortunately, due to weather, our kayaking and stargazing were cancelled.

For us, the highlights were the Milford Sound flight and cruise, bike ride in Clyde, Hulbert House B&B in Queensland, Hapuku Lodge accomodations and dinners, surfing with Green Wave Raglan Surf School, and the Koru Lodge in Raglan.

Thank you Monika.

John & Wendy

Hotel Reviews
Hapuku Lodge & Tree Houses
Kaikoura

Luxurious, comfortable, lots of amenities and activities.

Authenticity & Character
The tree houses are very authentic
Location
Nice hiking, biking and beach opportunities nearby
Staff
Couldn't be more helpful and friendly
Cleanliness & Comfort
The Great Ponsonby ArtHotel
Auckland

Located in a wonderful neighborhood with good access (walking or bus) to the center city, great staff, and wonderful breakfasts.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Ranginui B&B
Lake Tekapo

The B&B host is warm and welcoming, and a great advisor for activities.

Authenticity & Character
Location
A nice quiet neighborhood not too far to walk to town
Staff
The host is very friendly and welcoming
Cleanliness & Comfort
Belle Vue Boutique Lodge
Taupo

Comfortable, great views of the lake, beautiful home.

Authenticity & Character
The owners have done a wonderful job restoring the lodge, and they take great pride in it.
Location
While outside the center city, the lodge is located in a attractive neighborhood with nearby amenities.
Staff
Friendly and very helpful
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hulbert House
Queenstown

Wonderful staff, very comfortable accommodations, great location. And delicious breakfasts!

Authenticity & Character
Location
An easy 5-minute walk to the center of town, though not as easy a walk back (uphill).
Staff
Very friendly and accomodating.
Cleanliness & Comfort
The George
Christchurch

Great location and a very comfortable and clean hotel.

Authenticity & Character
Location
An easy walk to town center and across the street from a wonderful park
Staff
Very helpful
Cleanliness & Comfort
Bolton Hotel
Wellington

In the center of the City within easy walks of key spots. Very comfortable and clean.

Authenticity & Character
We were not surprised with the authenticity and character when we learned that The George is a related property to Hulbert House.
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
The Lord Clyde

Very helpful and friendly staff, and a great location.

Authenticity & Character
An original building from the town's gold rush days
Location
Right in the center of Clyde within easy walk of restaurants, sites and activities.
Staff
Very helpful in guiding how to best enjoy Clyde.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Explore Raglan
Explore Raglan
Raglan

The highlight was the Green Wave Raglan Surf School which caters to all ages and ability levels. They had us surfing (for a bit) and made it very fun and enjoyable.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Bing Lyons, our instructor, continued to encourage and instruct. He was so positive I thought I was an expert surfer.
Fly Cruise Fly – Queenstown to Milford Sound by scenic flight
Fly Cruise Fly – Queenstown to Milford Sound by scenic flight
Queenstown (NZ)

Flying over snow-capped mountains and glaciers with mountain peaks as far as you can see, landing on the sound, dolphin-escorted boat cruise, sailing up to waterfalls

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Andy is a tremendous pilot
Transport
The flight gave us a great view of mountains, glaciers, the sound, and it was smooth. And the cruise was wonderful as well
Cultural Food Tour - Kai Bites
Cultural Food Tour - Kai Bites
Christchurch

Very informative of the Maori history and culture with a delicious lunch of local foods.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Local specialist: Monika Vinsova
Monika
Monika Vinsova
Local specialist in Queenstown, New Zealand | Replied on Apr 28, 2025

Dear John & Wendy,

Thank you so much for your lovely message — I’m absolutely thrilled to hear that you had such a fantastic three weeks in New Zealand! It was truly a pleasure helping you craft an itinerary that brought together such a wonderful mix of places, activities, and memorable experiences.

Thank you again for allowing me to be part of your journey. It was a real joy working with you both, and I’d be delighted to help again if New Zealand ever calls you back.

Warmest regards,
Monika

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