New Zealand Tours & Holidays
People love to throw around the phrase ‘natural beauty’. Then they go to New Zealand.
The ‘Land of the Long White Cloud’ – it’s a classic Kiwi understatement if there ever was one. Most travellers are drawn to New Zealand for those epic experiences out in nature – the open spaces, the dusted peaks, the lakes that pop with blue and make a mockery of Instagram filters – that stuff is just the tip of the glacier. From the feather-clad harbingers of Maoritanga to the happening backstreets of Wellington and Dunedin to the natural beauty of Milford Sound, this country jumps with vitality in more ways than merely geological. Come for the epic trails and bubbling geysers, and stay for the friendliest folk in the southern hemisphere.
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New Zealand at a glance
CAPITAL CITY
Wellington (population 212,700)
POPULATION
5.13 million
CURRENCY
NZD
LANGUAGE
English, Maori
TIME ZONE
(GMT+12:00) Auckland, Wellington
CALLING CODE
+64
ELECTRICITY
Type I (Australian/New Zealand & Chinese/Argentine 2/3-pin)
Learn more about New Zealand
Best time to visit New Zealand
The most pleasant time for travelling throughout New Zealand is summer (December to February); however, this is also the busiest period, especially during school holidays (late December to late January).
Winter can get very cold with frequent snowfall - but this is the perfect time to travel if you’re looking to ski or snowboard, particularly in the South Island.
Culture and customs
Modern New Zealand is home to a diverse blend of people from far and wide. Maori, Pacific Islander, European and Asian influences blend peacefully to create a vibrant culture. Known for being friendly, down-to-earth, laidback and open, most visitors will find New Zealanders from all ethnicities to be helpful, approachable, generous and up for a laugh.
Maori culture has its origins in Polynesia so some aspects of Maori language, customs and traditions are quite similar to those of neighbouring islands. With strong traditional values based on respect for the family, ancestors and the land, Maori culture is hierarchical and steeped in centuries of tradition. Maori families typically come together for special occasions, celebrations and ceremonies filled with sacred dance, spiritual song and traditional food.
Visitors will see traditional Maori art and carving almost everywhere they go in New Zealand, from elaborate tattooing to carved necklaces. Although Maori culture experienced a decline after the arrival of European settlers, it experienced a renaissance of sorts in the 1960s, which continues to grow today.
Eating and drinking
With award-winning wineries, quality craft-beer bars, a world-class restaurant scene and a multitude of farmers' markets, eating in New Zealand is a real treat. Its Pacific location gives it an interesting mix of flavours, as European influences mesh with Asian and Polynesian.
When it comes to food – or kai, in the Maori language – there’s nothing quite like tucking into a traditional hangi dinner. It’s a hearty repast, fit for a warrior, cooked underground on heated rocks. Today’s hangi feast most often comprises slow-roasted meats, potatoes and stuffing, though there are many variations.
At the other end of the spectrum, there’s the seafood. The locals are spoilt for choice on this front – being an island nation definitely has its advantages. Fresh prawns, lobster, mussels and oysters are in abundance all year round, but fish and chips on the beach can be just as satisfying, especially for those on a budget.
Must-try food and drink in New Zealand
1. Wine & craft beer
Producing a huge variety of top quality wines (many more than just the famous Sauvignon Blancs), New Zealand is full of vineyards and cellar doors to visit. Microbreweries are well represented too; the Kiwis more than pull their weight in the global small-batch craft beer movement, especially in Wellington.
2. Crayfish
There are plenty of places to try crayfish, but Kaikoura, near the top of the South Island, is the best. This sperm-whale-watching capital of the world was in fact named after the crayfish (Kaikoura translates to ‘eat crayfish’ in Maori), and there’s a slew of places along the beach to sample the day’s fresh catch.
3. Lamb
With sheep playing a huge part in New Zealand’s agricultural economy, it’s no wonder succulent lamb can be found in most restaurants. If you’re a meat lover, don’t leave New Zealand without tasting the lamb (if you’re indulging in a hangi feast, chances are you will).
4. Kiwis, Feijoas & Tamarillos
Though none of them actually originated in New Zealand (Kiwis came from China; Feijoas and Tamarillos came from South America), these fruits have become synonymous with New Zealand and are all fairly major exports. While kiwi fruit is well known to most of us, it’s the feijoas and tamarillos you should take advantage of while in New Zealand. Abundant, versatile and an acquired taste, they pop up everywhere from roadside stalls to front-garden giveaways to gourmet cafe dishes.
5. Pavlova
Even though the creator of this desert is hotly contested by their trans-Tasman cousins, the pavlova – a dessert with a meringue-like base and topped with whipped cream and fresh fruit - was the invention of a Wellington chef to honour Russian ballet dancer Anna Pavlova's tour of Australia and New Zealand in the 1920s. It’s a must-try for the sweet tooths.
Top 10 wine regions of New Zealand
1. Marlborough
New Zealand’s wine capital produces top quality chardonnay, pinot noir and pinot gris but it’s the sauvignon blanc that has achieved cult status around the world. Also producing first-class seafood and olive oil, Marlborough is a fave with foodies and wine lovers.
2. Canterbury
With the ideal climate for grape growing, Canterbury produces many internationally acclaimed wine varieties, including pinot noir, pinot gris, chardonnay and Riesling. Pegasus Bay Winery is one of the most popular in this area, and with a restaurant attached to the winery visitors can indulge in the complete culinary experience.
3. Bay of Plenty
This picturesque area may be well known for its pristine beaches, but it’s also got a few small wineries well worth visiting. Surrounding berry farms, orchards and lavender fields add to the charm.
4. Auckland
There are many boutique wineries creating note-worthy drops in and around Auckland. Kumeu, Henderson and Waiheke Island are hotspots for wine tourism – with awarded wines coming from many small, up-and-coming estates.
5. Central Otago
Spectacular mountain ranges, azure lakes and rolling rivers combine to create one of the world's most scenic wine regions. The vineyards of Central Otago produce a wide range of grapes, but the pinot noir is considered the best.
6. Northland
Way up north, the vineyards populating the historic Northland area produce a wide range of reds and whites. From iconic chardonnay to the more complex chambourcin and exotic syrah, there are loads of cellar doors waiting to welcome you.
7. Hawke’s Bay
New Zealand’s oldest wine growing region also produces most of New Zealand’s most sustainable wines. This commitment to sustainability in the industry has garnered worldwide attention, as has its bold, full-bodied reds. The Art Deco town of Napier is well worth a visit too.
8. Gisborne
If you like your wines a little fruity then the Gisborne region will impress. Merlot, gewurztraminer, syrah and chardonnay are among the best on offer in this region, which is on the same parallel as Malaga and Melbourne.
9. Nelson
Winemaking is considered an art form in cultured Nelson. With many unique producers in the region, it won’t be hard to find some smooth wines to savour. Local delis, cafes, providores and galleries add to the artistic, gastronomic mix.
10. Wairarapa
This relatively small winemaking region is made up of three sub-regions: Martinborough, Masterton and Gladstone. Although only a small amount of New Zealand's wine is produced here, the quality is superb with a great track record in pumping out world-class pinot noir.
Top experiences in New Zealand
1. Conquer the Tongariro Crossing
Tongariro National Park is full of beautiful trails, but the epic Tongariro Crossing is unrivalled in New Zealand.
2. Marvel at majestic Mt Cook
New Zealand’s tallest mountain also happens to be one of the most spectacular peaks in the southern hemisphere.
3. Discover next-level hiking at Franz Josef Glacier
Welcome to the South Island’s otherworldly side – a World Heritage-listed slice of perfection begging to be explored on foot.
4. Live it up in Wellington
Move over Melbourne – Wellington has the liveable, laidback charm that other cities down under only dream of.
5. Dive into action-packed Queenstown
New Zealand’s stunning adventure capital has something for everyone, from high-octane thrills to top-notch food and wine.
6. Soak up the stark beauty of Wanaka
Lakes and mountains of another calibre unfold in this soothing South Island spot – a just short trip from action-packed Queenstown.
7. Come alive to Maoritanga in Rotorua
Geysers erupt on the hour in this hotbed of Maori culture, and the locals are only too eager to share their culture and traditional lands.
Learn more about Maori cultureShopping
With a nice little mix of malls, boutiques, galleries, fresh produce markets, cellar doors and providores, New Zealand has enough variety to keep most keen shoppers happy. Look beyond the tourist shops selling stuffed toys and flags and dig a little deeper to find unique art, locally-made crafts and gourmet goods.
It’s a good idea to check with your local customs officials to ensure that you are able to bring certain items back into your home country. Australia and New Zealand generally have strict quarantine laws.
Things to buy in New Zealand
1. Tasty treats
New Zealand is home to many producers of fine food. Home grown wine, olive oil, honey, jam and avocado oil are among the best picks.
2. Wool
With a huge sheep population, the quality and variety of wool is superb in New Zealand. As well as the classic Merino option, consider buying some gloves or socks made from possum wool – it’s durable, warm and a good environmental choice (the possum population poses a major threat to the endangered Kiwi bird).
3. Art and handicrafts
From ceramic bowls to metal sculptures, woodcarvings to greenstone jewellery, you'll find traditional Maori techniques and influences in many of New Zealand’s art and crafts. Try to find authentic, locally made items rather than imported (and inferior!) goods.
Geography and environment
Sitting in the South Pacific Ocean, this island nation is split in two – comprising two major landmasses surrounded by several smaller islands. And while there are many natural similarities between the two islands, they each have their own geographical and environmental character.
The mountainous South Island is larger, and its scenery unfolds on a grand scale. One of its crown jewels is Mt Cook, which is both the highest peak in the country and one of the most stunning sights. Fiords, glaciers, rugged bush and rocky coast are also major features of the South Island, and the differences between the likes of Franz Josef Glacier and the rugged Catlins Coast show the island’s great diversity.
The North Island, on the other hand, is more volcanic, though it has three times the population of the south. Typical features include bubbling lakes and mud pools, and geysers that erupt regularly (and spectacularly). The North Island is great for a hike or zip-line through untouched virgin native forest, with large national parks and reserves preserving the nation’s heritage bushland and the iconic Kiwi bird.
History and government
Early history
Maori tribes, descended from Polynesia, lived in New Zealand for centuries before the arrival of Europeans in the 18th century. Relying on fishing, hunting and foraging, these people were able to live off the land and develop a deep connection with the earth as a result of this.
European settlers caused wide-scale disruption and land loss for the Maoris, which resulted in conflict and displacement in the early days of colonisation. The 1840 Treaty of Waitangi officially recognised Maori land ownership, of which the British and Maoris were signatories. This historic agreement is viewed as a pivotal moment in New Zealand’s history and the first important step towards reconciliation between the original inhabitants and settlers.
Recent history
In 1852, New Zealand was granted the right to self-govern and in 1907, independence was granted (although the British monarchy remain as head of state). More recently, New Zealand voted in its first female prime minister in 1997. Jenny Shipley held office for two years, before handing over to another female leader - Helen Clarke, who continued to lead until 2008.
In the last ten years, New Zealand has enjoyed a surge in tourism, partly due to the wealth of wineries, ski fields and nature reserves. The film industry has also been a great champion of New Zealand, with filmmakers enjoying the rugged terrain and relatively cheap costs associated with filming in New Zealand. The Lord of the Rings franchise is probably the most well-known film to be shot in New Zealand and has been largely responsible for putting New Zealand in the international spotlight.
A devastating earthquake hit Christchurch in 2011, resulting in widespread loss of life and infrastructure. Although Christchurch is still rebuilding, visitors are encouraged to visit this spirited city.
Festivals and events
With such an interesting cultural landscape – a fiery combo of Maori culture, Pacific rhythms and the European traditions – New Zealand is a place to celebrate. It’s a country that not only excels at celebrating its indigenous cultures, but embraces the contemporary with a playful zest.
New Zealand Festival
Running each February and March, this is the premier Kiwi art and culture event. From theatre to opera, sculpture to painting, cinema to dance, it’s the best overall window to New Zealand’s broad creative palette. And a strong sense of its roots as a nation, with Maori and Pacific cultures well represented.
International Hobbit Day
Whether you’re a die-hard fan is almost beside the point – this up-and-coming festival is worth it for the backdrop alone. Sample local cheese and wine in the rolling hills of Waikato, which takes on an especially magical atmosphere in the lamplight. A tour of The Hobbit movie set will impress the most cynical of disbelievers.
Queenstown Winter Festival
Bringing in each powdery winter since 1975, the Queenstown Winter Festival usually takes place over a weekend in June. With comedy, food, music and – would you believe it in Queenstown? – adventure sports aplenty, it’s well worth planning your South Island visit around this one. The Monteith’s Dog Derby and Dog Barking Competition is something of an institution.
Public holidays that may impact travel include:
Waitangi Day
ANZAC Day
King's Birthday
Matariki
Labour Day
Please note dates of New Zealand's public holidays may vary.
Further reading
Title | Author |
---|---|
The Bone People | Keri Hulme |
Whale Rider | Witi Ihimaera |
Once Were Warriors | Alan Duff |
Going West | Maurice Gee |
The Luminaries | Eleanor Catton |
New Zealand travel FAQs
If you are from a visa waiver country or territory and are coming to New Zealand for less than 3 months (or 6 months if you are a British citizen), you do not need a visa. Instead, if you are eligible, you will need a New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA). This does not apply if you are an Australian citizen travelling with an Australian passport.
This information is for general information only and may be subject to change. It is your responsibility to obtain relevant visa and travel information required for entry, departure and travel to each country or region you visit on your trip. You should confirm these with the relevant embassies and/or consulates.
Last updated: 30 May 2023
Tipping isn’t mandatory in New Zealand, however rounding up the bill or leaving spare change is common practice. Restaurant staff, taxi drivers and other service workers welcome tips for good service.
Internet access is widely available in most parts of New Zealand, with internet cafes and Wi-Fi hot spots commonly found in urban areas. Access to Wi-Fi and mobile phone data may be limited or patchy when you're out on the hiking trails in more remote areas, but it should work whenever you reach a town or village.
Mobile phone coverage is excellent in most parts of New Zealand, especially in large cities and urban areas. Remote, rural and mountainous places may have limited to no coverage, so be aware of this before venturing away from the city. Ensure global roaming is activated before leaving your home country if you want to use your mobile.
You'll find western-style flushable toilet in most parts of New Zealand.
Drinking water from taps in New Zealand is considered safe, unless otherwise marked. For environmental reasons, try to use a refillable water bottle rather than buying bottled water.
Credit cards are widely accepted by shops, restaurants and cafes in New Zealand. Smaller establishments may only accept cash or require a minimum purchase for credit card use, so be sure to carry enough cash for smaller purchases.
ATMs are commonly found in large cities and regional towns in New Zealand. ATM access will be very limited in remote areas so be aware of this before heading out of the city.
Absolutely. All passengers travelling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.
For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance
The Maori people are the Indigenous people of New Zealand. Originally from eastern Polynesia, they settled in what is now known as New Zealand (or Aotearoa, the ‘Land of the Long White Cloud’) over 1000 years ago.
The Maori are a tribal people with many different facets to their culture, including a strong sense of kinship, warrior roots, sacred spaces (such as the marae, or meeting place), facial tattooing, and the concept of manaakitanga (showing respect).
The Maori language (Te Reo Maori) is unique to New Zealand, spoken only in this part of the Pacific. Though most Maori people today live a modern European-style life, a small number of Maori still live a traditional life.
New Zealand legalised same-sex marriage in 2013, and is by and large welcoming of gay and gender-fluid communities. While the big cities such as Auckland and Wellington are accommodating towards LGBTQIA+ travellers, caution should be used in rural areas where conservative views are more prevalent (as in any developed country). For more detailed and up-to-date information, visit Equaldex or Smartraveller before you travel.
Travelling with Intrepid is a little bit different. We endeavour to provide travellers with an authentic experience to remember, so we try to keep accommodation as unique and traditional as possible.
When travelling with us in New Zealand you may find yourself staying in a overnight boat.
One of the most relaxing ways to experience New Zealand’s natural world is aboard an overnight boat.
Spot wildlife and admire the scenery during the day, and drift off to sleep at night.
Intrepid takes the health and safety of its travellers seriously and takes every measure to ensure that trips are safe, fun and enjoyable for everyone. We recommend that all travellers check with their government or national travel advisory organisation for the latest information before departure:
From Australia?
Go to: Smart Traveller
From Canada?
Go to: Canada Travel Information
From the UK?
Go to: UK Foreign Travel Advice
From New Zealand?
Go to: Safe Travel
From the US?
Go to: US Department of State
The World Health Organisation also provides useful health information.
Whether you’re a seasoned traveller or you’re about to embark on your first trip, travelling can be as intimidating as it is exciting. That's the beauty of a small group tour. From handling the logistics and organising amazing cultural activities to local leaders who know each destination like the back of their hand (like which street has the best markets and where to get the most authentic food), travelling on a small group tour with Intrepid will give you unforgettable travel experiences without the hassle that comes with exploring a new place. Plus, you'll have ready-made friends to share the journey with. All you have to do is turn up with a healthy sense of adventure and we’ll take care of the rest.
Yes, all Intrepid trips support the Intrepid Foundation. In fact, we make a donation on behalf of every traveller. Trips to New Zealand directly support our foundation partner, Forest & Bird
Forest & Bird
Forest & Bird is a leading conservation organisation who are giving nature a voice - protecting wildlife and wild places in Aotearoa, New Zealand by advocating for conservation on the ground and at a government level. Donations help them conserve New Zealand's indigenous biodiversity by supporting their legal campaigns for change, land restoration and tree planting efforts.
Intrepid will double the impact by dollar-matching all post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation.