New Zealand trip | Discover all the beauty of New Zealand

Auckland is the largest city in New Zealand, with almost a third of the country's population. With a rich Polynesian heritage, spectacular beaches and vibrant nightlife, Auckland is a world-class destination that has much to offer its visitors. The city stretches from its two lively harbours dotted with superyachts and more than 70000 watercraft. Adrenaline junkies love Auckland for all the recreational activities on offer, including sky jumps, canyoning, kayaking and more. Art galleries, first-class restaurants, shopping centres and markets add to extensive sightseeing in and around the city. Don't miss the chance to visit the iconic Sky Tower and enjoy the stunning views of the city.

Rising from the azure waters of the Pacific Ocean, the Marlborough Sounds form an undulating network of partially submerged valleys, islands and winding waterways at the northern end of the South Island, New Zealand. These sounds include Queen Charlotte Sound, Kenepuru Sound and Pelorus Sound and flaunt pristine forests, stunning beaches, bays, inlets and inlets that invite travellers. This area offers countless opportunities for boating, fishing, diving, hiking and wildlife spotting. Visitors can also enjoy the various cafes, restaurants, galleries and specialty shops in the charming harbour town of Picton. The iconic Queen Charlotte Track is a 70-kilometre trail that stretches between Queen Charlotte and Kenepuru Sound and offers stunning coastal views, lush scenery and historical sites.

Set against a lush backdrop of verdant greenery, Waiatarua – a small settlement perched over 300 metres above sea level in the heart of the Waitākere Ranges in West Auckland – is a convenient starting point for exploring its unspoilt landscape. Scenic walking trails within the Waitākere Ranges Regional Park reveal the area’s rich biodiversity, providing an immersive experience. The town is ideally situated for visitors to explore the area, with the Arataki Visitor Centre being a must-visit – serving as the gateway to the magnificent Waitākere Ranges Regional Park and an informative hub connecting visitors with the park’s ecological treasures across its more than 16,000 hectares of native rainforest and coastline. Highlights include the Cascade Kauri Wildlife Sanctuary, which offers an enriching journey through ancient forests and along streams, whilst the stunning Upper Nihotupu Reservoir Walk ensures delightful views of the reservoir and the surrounding hills.

New Zealand is known for its breathtaking natural beauty, with vast landscapes and unique wildlife. The Southern Alps form a spectacular mountain range on the South Island, with peaks covered in snow and glistening glaciers. Fiordland National Park is home to majestic fjords, including the famous Milford Sound. The northern Bay of Islands offers beautiful islands, turquoise waters and opportunities for sailing and snorkelling. Rotorua on the North Island is famous for its geothermal activity, with bubbling mud pools and spouting geysers. Tongariro National Park is home to the active volcanoes Mount Tongariro, Mount Ngauruhoe and Mount Ruapehu, and offers epic hiking trails such as the Tongariro Alpine Crossing. New Zealand is home to unique native animals, including the iconic kiwi bird and the pukeko. Abel Tasman National Park presents golden beaches, crystal clear waters and one of the country's Great Walks. Queenstown is known as the adventure capital, with bungee jumping, skydiving and other exciting activities. The Te Papa Tongarewa Museum in Wellington offers insight into New Zealand's history and culture. Throughout the country, you will find warm hospitality and a deep-rooted Maori culture that contributes to New Zealand's unique charm.

Located on the shores of Lake Wakatipu, Queenstown offers stunning views of the surrounding mountain peaks. Considered by many as one of the world's adventure capitals, it offers visitors a wide selection of adrenaline-stimulating activities to choose from, such as bungee jumping, whitewater rafting, zip-lining, skiing and skydiving. Queenstown also has a lively bar and restaurant scene, and for those who prefer the quieter things in life, there are vineyards, golf courses, spas and wellness centres.

It's not only the clear blue water, fresh air, surrounding volcanoes and green mountains that make Lake Taupo such a favourite among locals and foreigners; friendly, bustling towns, excellent trout fishing and a number of great outdoor adventure activities ensure visitors flock to the area, especially in high summer. For high flyers there's skydiving and bungy jumping, water lovers can take a cruise to view giant Maori carvings, hire a jetboat or sightsee via a floatplane, and avid cyclist have plenty of trail options. Visit Tongariro National Park, marvel at Huka Falls, or simply relax near the lake, drinking in the perfect sights and sounds.

Christchurch, located on the east coast of New Zealand's South Island, is the island's largest city. Known as the 'Garden City', thanks to its many parks and gardens, the city combines a modern, multicultural atmosphere with historic Victorian influences. The city offers a fantastic range of activities, including punting along the River Avon, helicopter flights, ballooning and whale and dolphin spotting. Visitors can enjoy a walk through the beautifully sculpted parks, visit the Christchurch Botanic Gardens and browse various art galleries, followed by a visit to Pomeroy's for a craft beer and the neighbouring Victoria's Kitchen for a pub-style lunch.

Wellington is New Zealand's constitutional and cultural capital and has been called 'the coolest little capital in the world'. With its diverse architecture, world-class museums, cultural attractions and award-winning restaurants, Wellington is a popular destination for both local and international travellers. Because of its location in the 'Roaring Forties', the city experiences its fair share of wind, which is why sailing is a popular activity here - with charters offering visitors the experience of a relaxing cruise with stunning views of the city and surrounding bays.

Situated on the banks of New Zealand's longest river, the Waikato, Hamilton is a destination city that will enchant the whole family. It boasts 145 parks and gardens, plenty of sporting areas, a vibrant nightlife and fine dining, and a thriving cultural precinct. The kids will love WaterWorld, the Hamilton Zoo (which is home to 600 indigenous and exotic creatures) and the miniature train track at Tui Avenue. There are a number of galleries showcasing local art, a Classic Car Museum, and the ever-popular Hamilton Gardens with its themed garden displays. For an easy day trip, visit the Hobbiton Movie Set and the Waitomo Glowworm Caves.

Rotorua is a city full of geothermal wonders and Maori traditions. Upon arrival, the smell of sulphur greets, while Lake Rotorua enchants with serene beauty. The Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland reveals vibrant colours and steaming geysers. Te Puia offers cultural immersion with Maori songs and haka dancing. Adventure beckons in Whakarewarewa forest with ziplining and luging. At night, the town comes alive with Maori fires and twinkling stars. Mitai Maori Village offers an insight into traditional customs and hangi meals. Rotorua is the unique fusion of nature and culture. The special blend between natural geysers and Maori heritage will stay with you for a long time.

Wanaka, a town on the shores of Lake Wanaka on New Zealand's South Island, offers an abundance of natural beauty and adventure opportunities. With its shimmering turquoise waters surrounded by snow-capped mountains, the lake is a paradise for water sports enthusiasts and nature lovers. Wanaka is a popular destination for activities such as kayaking, paddleboarding, fishing and sailing. The nearby Mount Aspiring National Park offers numerous hiking trails, ranging from leisurely walks to challenging mountain treks. With its relaxed atmosphere, breathtaking landscapes and abundance of outdoor adventures, Wanaka is an unforgettable destination for travellers.

Quietly located at the northern end of Lake Taupo and surrounded by bush-covered mountains, Taupo is known for its location and excellent outdoor activities such as sailing, kayaking, fishing and skiing on Mount Ruapehu. The city is surrounded by a number of exceptional natural attractions, such as the d crystal blue waterfalls of Huka Falls, which can be reached via a number of popular hiking and cycling trails. Other highlights include beautiful geothermal pools and the Waipahihi botanical reserve. Those who want more of a cultural experience can visit the beautiful Lake Taupo Museum and Art Gallery with exhibitions on the Maori, volcanic and early European history of the area.

Lake Wanaka, called the world's first 'lifestyle reserve' by locals, has something of interest for every kind of visitor. The lake itself offers great fishing, boating and even gold prospecting opportunities, while the neighbouring Mt Aspiring National Park is home to glaciers, mountains and river valleys waiting to be explored. Wanaka, one of the fastest-growing towns in New Zealand, lies on the shores of the lake and attracts visitors with its relaxed atmosphere and activities such as horse riding, golfing, flying shows and air shows.

The larger of New Zealand's two main islands, the South Island encompasses incredible landscapes - from rainforests to snow-capped mountains, golden beaches and stunning glaciers. Many consider this the home of adventure tourism and adrenaline junkies will be spoilt for choice, with activities such as bungee jumping, kayaking and the six "Great Walks". Although much less populated than its northern counterpart, the South Island has a number of cities and towns worth putting on your itinerary: visit Christchurch for its beautiful parks and gardens; pass through Dunedin to encounter penguin, albatross and seal colonies; or stop by Kaikoura for some of the best whale watching in the world

On the North Island, every turn reveals a new world, from geothermal wonders to vibrant cityscapes, making it a destination where no two days feel the same. Wellington, the nation's capital, combines a dynamic arts and cultural scene with landmarks like Te Papa Museum and Zealandia eco-sanctuary. Auckland, known as the "City of Sails," blends urban sophistication with access to natural havens such as Rangitoto Island and Mt Eden. Adventure awaits in Rotorua, where geothermal marvels like Wai-O-Tapu and therapeutic spas complement immersive Māori cultural experiences. The Coromandel features golden beaches like Cathedral Cove and Hot Water Beach. Northland's Twin Coast Highway leads to Cape Reinga, steeped in spiritual significance. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore the Waitomo Caves, Pouakai Crossing, and Taupō's Huka Falls. For film buffs, the Hobbiton Movie Set brings Middle-earth™ to life. Beneath the waves, the Poor Knights Islands offer a world-class diving experience.

Canterbury is a region on New Zealand's South Island, known for its rugged coastline, diverse wildlife and beautiful turquoise lakes. Canterbury's largest city, Christchurch, is the gateway for tourism on the South Island. Travellers come here for winter sports adventures, countryside walks, mountain tours, bungee jumping, horse riding and whitewater rafting. Those looking for a touch of luxury can spend their time enjoying regional wines, excellent food and high-quality local produce in excellent restaurants. The Tekapo Springs hot springs, overlooking Lake Tekapo and the Two Thumb Mountains, are a must-see attraction.

Located at the northeastern tip of New Zealand's South Island, Marlborough is New Zealand's largest wine-growing region with more than 4,000 hectares of vineyards. Lovers of the finer things in life will thoroughly enjoy the many world-class wineries, cafes and restaurants. With an average of 2,400 hours of sunshine per year, Marlborough's climate is the perfect setting to explore the local wildlife and landscape. Highlights include swimming with dolphins, hiking or mountain biking along breathtaking coastal trails, whale watching, kayaking and boat trips. The beautiful Marlborough Sounds, a vast area of valleys drowned by the sea, offer the chance to see fur seals, little blue penguins, dolphins and rare birds. Heritage and aircraft enthusiasts will enjoy the Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre, where historic aircraft are displayed in theatrical performances.

They say Hawke's Bay can be summed up in two words ... wine country. But on reflection, there is much more to enjoy here than an excellent Syrah or Savignon Blanc (although that may be enough for some). The warm, dry climate is also conducive to a number of outdoor activities, such as cycling, hiking on the forest trails of the Ruahine and Kaweka Forest Parks, getting up close and personal with the world's largest gannet colony on the picturesque sandstone headland of Cape Kidnappers , or heading up to Te Mata Peak for panoramic views of the whole area. Unwind at the Chocolate History Museum or stroll the streets of Napier - the city has phenomenal Art Deco architecture.

The Bay of Plenty or Te Moana-a-Toi is a region in the North Island of New Zealand that covers 9,500 km² of coastal marine area and 12,200 km² of land. Here the earth is alive with geothermal activity so expect steaming hot springs, salt water pools, geysers and active volcanoes. The area attracts local and international visitors looking for a relaxed seaside holiday combined with adventure activities. It's no wonder that Lord of the Rings director Peter Jackson chose this area to as the film's location. The region is one of the fastest growing areas in New Zealand, with the city of Tauranga its largest commercial centre.

The popular tourist town of Napier on the east coast of New Zealand's North Island is one of the country's most congenial regional centres. Downtown streets lined with palm trees and the beautifully sculpted Marine Parade, as the name suggests, line the town along the coast. Marine Parade is dotted with numerous parks, landscaped gardens and large memorials that give the waterfront its unique character. Arriving in Napier gives one the feeling of stepping back in time. This is mainly due to the unique concentration of remarkably well-preserved Art Deco buildings from the 1930s, built after much of the city was destroyed in a massive earthquake in 1931. The city is also known for its gannet colony at Cape Kidnappers and the abundance of world -class wineries on the surrounding plains. With the Mediterranean climate; the excellent variety of restaurants and cafes; and the atmosphere of a prosperous English seaside resort, Napier is truly a wonderful holiday destination.

On the rugged east coast of New Zealand's South Island lies the coastal town of Kaikoura, situated on a rocky peninsula jutting out into the sea, surrounded by farmland at the foot of mountains. This small coastal town has become a popular tourist destination, mainly because of its famous wildlife viewing opportunities. Now it is 'the mecca of nature lovers'. Few places have such a wide range of accessible wildlife. With whales, dolphins, fur seals, penguins and albatrosses often seen, this area is truly a nature lover's dream. Visitors can join the Art Trail to witness skilled local artisans at work in their own studios and galleries.

This remarkably sunny and rather sleepy town is usually used as a base for exploring the town's surrounding wine country, home to some of New Zealand's most prolific and revered vineyards. The area has more than 40 excellent wineries, many of which are conveniently located within 10 km of Blenheim. In and around Blenheim, you will find an impressive array of enticing cafes and restaurants, shops, eateries and some world-class golf courses. The nearby Marlborough Sounds provide an ideal setting for a variety of water sports. Popular attractions include the fascinating Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre, home to a well-restored collection of World War I aircraft, as well as the Marlborough Museum, which displays a variety of interesting local historical artefacts and also houses Beavertown, a replica streetscape based on features of Blenheim circa 1900.

Cambridge is a town in the Waikato region of New Zealand's North Island. Affectionately known as 'The Town of Trees and Champions' because of its green parks and tree-lined avenues, the town exudes a decidedly English elegance. Cambridge is known for its large number of excellent antique shops and its horse industry, with local stud farms producing some of the world's finest thoroughbreds. In terms of activities and attractions, visitors to Cambridge are spoilt for choice. Travellers can enjoy the local cuisine, ride horses through the beautiful countryside, explore the beautiful parks and gardens, and visit the fascinating Cambridge Museum. The scenic Waikato River and Lake Karapiro waterways are within minutes from the city centre perfect for swimming, rowing, kayaking, jet skiing, skiing and fishing.

Waiheke Island offers beautiful vineyards, stunning olive groves and spectacular beaches, all just a 35-minute ferry ride from central Auckland, in New Zealand's Hauraki Gulf. This once tranquil destination is now a popular holiday destination for New Zealand's wealthy upper class. Waiheke has an impressive array of beautiful galleries, quirky craft shops and tempting cafes. It is also the proud host of 19 high-end, boutique wineries, many of which have excellent on-site restaurants with breathtaking views and serve a variety of culinary delights. Be sure to try New Zealand's fresh Pacific Rim cuisine, famous for its fresh, subtle or spicy dishes. Visitors can enjoy kayaking, ziplining, clay pigeon shooting, exploring lush nature reserves and discovering sheltered bays with small waves.

Set on a peninsula on New Zealand’s ‘Hibiscus Coast’, Whangaparoa means ‘Bay of Whales’ in Māori and is well known for sightings of orcas and dolphins, as well as excellent jet-skiing and windsurfing. If you’re a keen golfer, be sure to play a round at the Gulf Harbour Golf Course, situated at the tip of the Whangaparaoa Peninsula, which offers incredible views of the Hauraki Gulf. If you prefer nature, head to the wildlife sanctuary at Shakespeare Regional Park or to the exquisite Tiritiri Matangi Island, a reserve that is home to a wide variety of endangered birds and wildlife species.

Tekapo, commonly known as Lake Tekapo, is a small town near the geographical centre of New Zealand's South Island. As its name suggests, the town is known primarily as a lakeside resort and offers excellent outdoor activities in a remote and tranquil setting. Besides numerous hiking trails, mountain biking routes, horseback riding and a full range of water sports (including salmon fishing), Lake Tekapo is most famous for its stargazing opportunities. GBo visit the Mount John Observatory and discover more about the region's unique geography and exceptionally clear, cloudless night sky. Thanks to local regulations against light pollution, the area is a leading candidate for World Heritage status to protect natural starlight. Lake Tekapo also has the photogenic Church of the Good Shepherd and plenty of dining and accommodation options.

The Kapiti Coast stretches along the beautiful coastline on the southwest side of New Zealand's North Island and is best known for its internationally renowned bird and wildlife sanctuary. Kapiti Island, is located just 5 km from the coast at Paraparaumu. The area boasts the mountainous Tararua Forest Park and some lovely spacious and quiet beaches, popular with holidaymakers and fishing enthusiasts from the nearby capital Wellington. Formerly known as The Golden Coast, the coastline is home to the charming little towns of Te Horo, Waikanae, Paraparaumu, Raumati Beach and Raumati South. The Kapiti Coast is an ideal destination for travellers looking for a peaceful escape in spectacularly beautiful surroundings, away from the hustle and bustle of city life.