Personalized trips to New Zealand
for independent travelers

How it works
Chat with specialist icon Step 1
Tell us what kind of trip you want
Complete our quick travel quiz
Chat icons Step 2
Chat with a local travel specialist
Work out the details together
Credit card icon Step 3
Securely book your trip
100% satisfaction guaranteed

Travelers love kimkim

- ., traveled to in

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.

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
4.8
(12)
· 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
4.9
(7)
· 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
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 2 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 4 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 2 hours 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 3 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

Travelers who visit New Zealand also visit these destinations

Trip Reviews for New Zealand

The latest reviews by travelers who booked their trip on kimkim

Our trip planned with Ruth was perfect! Queen...
New Zealand | Jun 29 - Jul 3, 2025

K
Karen T.
Richardson, TX | Reviewed on Jul 04, 2025
Our trip planned with Ruth was perfect! Queenstown was a beautiful city and the excursions that we went on were just right! The gondola and luge tickets were just right for the day we arrived. The Milford Sound day tour was amazing- it is a long day but so worth it!! It was a bright sunny day and our tour guide was informative and fun! The Walters Peak Farm and BBQ lunch was a great way to spend our last afternoon- leaving room for some last minute shopping in town and enjoying the beautiful... Read more

Our trip planned with Ruth was perfect! Queenstown was a beautiful city and the excursions that we went on were just right! The gondola and luge tickets were just right for the day we arrived. The Milford Sound day tour was amazing- it is a long day but so worth it!! It was a bright sunny day and our tour guide was informative and fun! The Walters Peak Farm and BBQ lunch was a great way to spend our last afternoon- leaving room for some last minute shopping in town and enjoying the beautiful weather!

Hotel Review
Millennium Hotel Queenstown
queesntown
Authenticity & Character
Location
It is up on a steep hill so easy to walk down to town (~10minutes), but a tougher walk home up the hill.
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Queenstown Private Transfer Hotel to Airport
Queenstown Private Transfer Hotel to Airport
New Zealand
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Queenstown Private Transfer Airport to Hotel
Queenstown Private Transfer Airport to Hotel
New Zealand
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Walter Peak Farm and Gourmet Barbecue Lunch
Walter Peak Farm and Gourmet Barbecue Lunch
New Zealand

BBQ Lunch was great- so many options and loved some of the unique offerings. The farm setting is just quaint and beautiful!

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Full Day Milford Sound Glass Roof Van/CruiseVan
Full Day Milford Sound Glass Roof Van/CruiseVan
Queenstown (NZ)

Breathtaking!

Quality of Experience
Our driver, Tommy! He was awesome! And we really lucked out with beautiful weather.
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Van was perfect size- loved the small group verses a large bus group.
Local specialist: Ruth Grau

A lifelong dream come true
New Zealand | Apr 11 - Apr 24, 2025

Hailey
Hailey K.
Ashburn, VA | Reviewed on Jul 01, 2025
My husband and I finally fulfilled our dream of visiting New Zealand/Aotearoa to celebrate our 15th anniversary, and we could not have done it without our KimKim agent, Uma. We had a general idea of what we wanted to do, and she helped design a travel plan that captured everything we wanted and more.
During the trip, she and her colleagues remained in touch for any questions or support we needed. There were a couple of instances where we had to adjust our plans due to the weather, and Uma...
Read more

My husband and I finally fulfilled our dream of visiting New Zealand/Aotearoa to celebrate our 15th anniversary, and we could not have done it without our KimKim agent, Uma. We had a general idea of what we wanted to do, and she helped design a travel plan that captured everything we wanted and more.
During the trip, she and her colleagues remained in touch for any questions or support we needed. There were a couple of instances where we had to adjust our plans due to the weather, and Uma and her team were ready with alternate suggestions that were equally as amazing as the original plan.
Everything was perfect--from our hotel accommodations, restaurant suggestions, rental car and ferry arrangements, and activities. We literally could not have planned this trip ourselves.
I highly highly recommend using Uma and her vast knowledge to plan your trip to Aotearoa and anywhere else in the world!

Local specialist: Uma Natarajan
Uma
Uma Natarajan
Local specialist in New Zealand | Replied on Jul 02, 2025

Dear Hailey & Andy,

Thank you so much for your kind words and the review. I absolutely enjoyed assisting you during your New Zealand Holiday.

Thank you for the lovely gift from Kentucky. It is indeed a symbol of good luck and our business is flourishing.

Please keep in touch. I would be delighted to see you again with Riley in our beautiful country .

Warm regards,
Uma

Uma planned an amazing trip to the south isla...
New Zealand | May 31 - Jun 13, 2025

T
Tracy W.
Hilo, HI | Reviewed on Jun 14, 2025
Uma planned an amazing trip to the south island of New Zealand for us. Her suggestion of visiting Stewart Island was great. It was one of our favorite places on our trip. She was also very responsive and made requested changes quickly. She checked in on us during the trip to make sure everything was running smoothly. Uma did a great job! Read more

Uma planned an amazing trip to the south island of New Zealand for us. Her suggestion of visiting Stewart Island was great. It was one of our favorite places on our trip. She was also very responsive and made requested changes quickly. She checked in on us during the trip to make sure everything was running smoothly. Uma did a great job!

Hotel Reviews
The Rees Hotel
Queenstown

Spectacular view!

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
The Bay Motel
Oban

Convenient location. Great view. Friendly staff.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Distinction Te Anau Hotel And Villas
Te Anau

Beautiful room and view. Amazingly warm and helpful staff. Dexter, the cat, was a special added bonus.

Authenticity & Character
Room was beautiful.
Location
Great view! Short walk to town.
Staff
Very friendly and helpful.
Cleanliness & Comfort
The Langlands Hotel
Invercargill

Had construction going on. Very loud in morning.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Scenic Hotel Dunedin City
Dunedin

Convenient location.

Authenticity & Character
Not much character. Standard hotel.
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Room was clean and okay. Nothing special.
Distinction Christchurch Hotel & Conference Centre
Christchurch

Convenient location.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
SkyCity Hotel
Auckland

Was in a central location which made it convenient, but had a casino.

Authenticity & Character
Had a casino
Location
Staff
Activity Reviews
Wilderness Cruise at the Remote Doubtful Sound (Self Drive)
Wilderness Cruise at the Remote Doubtful Sound (Self Drive)
New Zealand

Amazing trip. Two boat rides and one bus through amazing scenery. Guides were very knowledgeable and entertaining.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Bus driver and Doubtful Sound guide were very knowledgeable and entertaining.
Transport
Wildlife & Penguin Tour
Wildlife & Penguin Tour
Dunedin

Great experience. Saw hoiho, blue penguins, fur seals. Guide very knowledgeable and friendly.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Uma Natarajan
Uma
Uma Natarajan
Local specialist in New Zealand | Replied on Jun 15, 2025

Dear Tracy & Josh,

Thank you so much for your kind words and the review. I absolutely enjoyed assisting you during your New Zealand Holiday. Stewart Island is a very special place and my personal favorite. I am glad you loved it.

Please keep in touch. I would be delighted to see you again with your son in our beautiful country .

Warm regards,
Uma

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.