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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
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.

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, Mount Cook and the surrounding glaciers, the peaks of Mount Aspiring National Park, and the magnificent fjords. you'll 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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
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
Auckland
M Social
4.8
(33)
· 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)
Queenstown Park Boutique Hotel
5.0
(10)
· Luxury
Enjoy the best of both worlds at Queenstown Park Boutique Hotel, a modern property offering both proximity to the center and seclusion. Bordered by nature, the hotel's location offers extra privacy. The hotel is right by Queenstown Recreational Reserve and a 7-minute walk to Skyline Queenstown,...
Auckland
The Hotel Britomart
4.9
(13)
· 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
4.9
(13)
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
4.8
(18)
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
4.6
(11)
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...

Our Latest New Zealand Content

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.

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.

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
10 Days in New Zealand - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
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7 Days in New Zealand - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
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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
active 17 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...
active 3 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...

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active 20 hours ago

Monika Vinsova

"Travel is an investment in yourself" is the quote that inspires me for many years now and I love to share my knowledge with others as I believe travelling truly is one of the best ways...

read more...
active 6 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...

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Trip Reviews for New Zealand

The latest reviews by travelers who booked their trip on kimkim

pre tour travel
New Zealand | Feb 5 - Feb 24, 2026

C
cathy l.
San Jose, CA | Reviewed on Apr 16, 2026
Michelle provided a great itinerary for us which ultimately reflected our desires perfectly. I was unclear about what we really wanted and she was wonderful with information and recommendations that were a significant improvement over my ‘ google’ knowledge. Communication before and during the trip was seamless. We had some problems with a rental car which required a hastily changed itinerary; she was available and very helpful. This was my first experience with a travel planner- very... Read more

Michelle provided a great itinerary for us which ultimately reflected our desires perfectly. I was unclear about what we really wanted and she was wonderful with information and recommendations that were a significant improvement over my ‘ google’ knowledge. Communication before and during the trip was seamless. We had some problems with a rental car which required a hastily changed itinerary; she was available and very helpful. This was my first experience with a travel planner- very positive overall!

Hotel Reviews
Fiordland Jewel
Milford Sound

A very special experience- first class and a unique way to see the fjord. Our Captain has an intimate history and experience in the sound and his presentation was truly superb

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Queenstown Park Boutique Hotel
Queenstown
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Review
Milford Sound overnight Cruise - Fiordland Jewel
Milford Sound

This was the perfect way to see the Sound

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Michelle Srzich
Michelle Srzich
Local specialist in Auckland, New Zealand | Replied on Apr 17, 2026

Thanks for your feedback Cathy. I am so glad when people mention they see the value of using a real travel specialist instead of AI to plan their trip, not just for a better itinerary but we are there to help if anything doesn't go quite as planned. Happy future travels with Kimkim!

Greatest Itinerary to New Zealand
New Zealand | Mar 15 - Apr 6, 2026

Mary K.
Philadelphia, PA | Reviewed on Apr 15, 2026
This wonderful trip was one of much research and planning. This was all made easy and uncomplicated working on with the local, fun, helpful Kimkim specialist, Monika. She took us on a journey before we even took our first flight. Monika was available to us throughout our 23 day trip, by phone or email and kept us up to date on any changes. We had a day by day itinerary created by Kimkim that was on an app on our phone, which was invaluable. There are so many highlights to this trip, including... Read more

This wonderful trip was one of much research and planning. This was all made easy and uncomplicated working on with the local, fun, helpful Kimkim specialist, Monika. She took us on a journey before we even took our first flight. Monika was available to us throughout our 23 day trip, by phone or email and kept us up to date on any changes. We had a day by day itinerary created by Kimkim that was on an app on our phone, which was invaluable. There are so many highlights to this trip, including the Milford Sound lead by the lovely Olivia, the Dart River excursion, cycling the Dunstan Trail, oh and how can I forget taking a water taxi to Tasman National Park. Each day was full of adventures, loved staying in Oliver's Lodge in Clyde (originally a horse stable) there was so much to see and do each day.. our last night in Auckland was super fun, our dinner at Ahi restaurant was a true experience immersed in food from land and sea of New Zealand. This trip was very special to my husband and I, one with many fond memories of a beautiful country and its people. Kimkim is a perfect choice to help you put this wonderful trip together. Super great job Monika!!

Hotel Reviews
Olivers Lodge
Clyde

Charming Lodge, exquisite breakfast and lovely innkeepers

Authenticity & Character
It is within an old horse stable, can't get more authentic. Great Restaurant on site!
Location
Tiny town, this was smack in the middle, easy to walk around without using our car
Staff
Very caring innkeepers!
Cleanliness & Comfort
Dunluce Bed and Breakfast
Te Anau

Wonderful comfortable Inn

Authenticity & Character
Charming and Homey
Location
Beautiful views
Staff
Hannah the host, extremely helpful and friendly
Cleanliness & Comfort
Queenstown Park Boutique Hotel
Queenstown

Best breakfast in town! What a delightful place to stay, just a couple blocks from downtown . Easily walkable to all. Clean, well appointed, friendly place.

Authenticity & Character
Little touches throughout hotel, nice art work and photos
Location
Walkable
Staff
Lou at the front desk!
Cleanliness & Comfort
Great bed
Local specialist: Monika Vinsova
Monika Vinsova
Local specialist in Queenstown, New Zealand | Replied on Apr 15, 2026

Hi Mary and Mark,

Thank you so much for your beautiful message—it truly means a lot to me. I’m so happy to hear how much you enjoyed your time in New Zealand and that the trip created such special memories for you both. I also loved seeing your photos—you both looked so happy!

It was an absolute pleasure working with you, and I loved being part of your journey.

Wishing you many more wonderful travels ahead.

Warmest regards,
Monika

New Zealand was Wonderful
New Zealand | Mar 17 - Apr 8, 2026

D
Don P.
Overland Park, KS, USA | Reviewed on Apr 10, 2026
For us, this was a long trip but the folks at KimKim and their local specialist Monica at Once Upon a Trip took great care of us. Every day was filled with a new adventure. The weather was perfect for all but the last day of our trip making it even better. I will say that even though people say that New Zealand does not have mosquitos - they do! Along with sandflies. Bring some deet repellent and you should be ok. Read more

For us, this was a long trip but the folks at KimKim and their local specialist Monica at Once Upon a Trip took great care of us. Every day was filled with a new adventure. The weather was perfect for all but the last day of our trip making it even better. I will say that even though people say that New Zealand does not have mosquitos - they do! Along with sandflies. Bring some deet repellent and you should be ok.

Hotel Reviews
Pen-y-bryn Lodge Oamaru
Oamaru

What a place! The rooms were lovely, the hosts were wonderful and what a breakfast! They had a nice happy hour for us as well. The only drawback was that we had a 2nd floor room and there were no elevators. Also, the parking is a little tight but everything worked out just fine. The hosts really know the area very well and were quite friendly. The location is not downtown but that was actually very nice. It was only a 10 or 15 minute drive to the Little Blue Penguin Colony and Bushy Beach.

Rendezvous Heritage Hotel Auckland
Auckland

Very friendly staff and a great location. Other than that there was nothing that made this hotel stand out. They did not serve breakfast here. Fortunately, about a short walk away is an excellent choice for breakfast and lunch that we enjoyed - the Federal Square Cafe. The hotel is also a very close walk to both the Sky Tower and the Weta Workshop. We did not have a car here so I can not tell you about parking.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
We had to use the loading zone to empty our car before we dropped it back to the rental car company. One of the front staff helped us remove our luggage and take it inside.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Art Deco Masonic Hotel
Napier

The Art Deco Masonic Hotel was fantastic. We had the Anna Pavolova suite and it had a separate living room with a door separating the bedroom from the living room. The bedroom and living room each had a bathroom. The location was perfect. They have a second floor balcony that looks out over the ocean where you can see a beautiful sunrise. It was an easy walk to the downtown area. The only different thing about the hotel is that there is no parking there. You use the loading zone to unload your luggage and check in. Then you have to pay to park your car in a lot a couple of blocks away.

Naumi Hotel Wellington
6141

We really enjoyed our stay at Naumi Hotel Wellington. It is right off of Cuba street where we could walk to everything - including Te Papa, the National Museum (very good). There is a nice pickup spot for ride sharing on the other side. Breakfast was very good. If you did not like what was on the buffet you could order fried eggs or an omlet. We stayed there three nights and had dinner at three different restaurants less than a block from the hotel. I will say that the decor was very stripey (you will understand once you get there).

The Dairy Private Hotel by Naumi Hotels
Queenstown

This hotel's location was excellent. We were able to walk into Queenstown's downtown, gardens and docks very easily. It costs extra to park here and parking is limited so make sure you talk to them before you get into town. There is no elevator for your luggage but one of the staff happily took them up to the higher floor for us. The room was clean.

Distinction Te Anau Hotel And Villas
Te Anau

Great hotel with a great location. We walked to everywhere. The breakfast was great for a hotel that serves a lot of tour groups. The room was very clean. We also were able to do our laundry right in the hotel (once we got change from the front desk). Everyone was ver friendly.

Mohua Park Catlins Eco Accommodation
Tawanui, RD 2, Owaka

One of our more unique stays on our trip. This one-room cabin is very isolated but once we got here it was wonderful. We stayed here two nights. Our tour guide got us a package where breakfast and dinner were provided. The unit had a stove, an outdoor grill and a refrigerator. We had steaks waiting to grill and the first night we had a pasta salad and the second night a broccoli salad. For breakfast there were eggs to cook up and yogurt or milk with some granola. Outside, was a sheep farm for as far as you could see. Needless to say, the stars were very bright. They also had a very nice hot tub large enought for two to fit comfortably (and look at the stars). Our host was very friendly and gave us ideas as to what to do.

Galaxy Boutique Hotel Tekapo
Lake Tekapo

The skylight in the room was interesting. We could walk to the lakeshore from the hotel but we typically drove as there was plenty of parking. The parking at the hotel was ok but kind of tight. While they gave you an option to eat breakfast in your room, we instead at at their breakfast area (which was small but very well orgainzed). The view outside of our window was gorgeous.

The Vicarage Geraldine
Geraldine

A very nice hotel. However, if you happen to be located on the 2nd floor be aware that there are no elevators. Breakfast is right next store which was fine. The town is small but it has a nice walkway behind the hotel. There was plenty of room to park your car but you will not need it in town as there are lots of shops and several restaurants within easy walking distance.

Fable Christchurch
Christchurch

An excellent hotel with an excellent location. It is just a few steps from the main Christchurch Trolley (which we took advantage of). It was also very close to lots of places to eat for dinner. The breakfast was also very good.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Millennium Hotel Rotorua
Rotorua

The Millennium Hotel Rotorua was okay, but not as charming as other accommodations on our trip. Staff seemed overworked, especially at the front desk. It was Easter weekend and they did seem very busy. The location was great, which was a redeeming factor. Just wasn't as personal or cozy as other spots.

Activity Reviews
Art Deco Vintage Car Tour
New Zealand

The Art Deco Vintage Car Tour in Napier was a delightful surprise. We toured in a 1930s car and learned a lot about the city's Art Deco history, including its recovery from a massive earthquake. It was surprisingly engaging and exceeded our expectations.

Queenstown Wine Sampler tour (half day)
Queenstown (NZ)

The Queenstown Wine Sampler tour itself was fun once it got started, but finding the meeting location was a nightmare. Instructions were unclear, and GPS misled us. It needs to specify cross streets and better signage for Altitude's Wine Tasting Tour. The tour itself made up for the initial stress.

Sunrise Tour at Mohua Park
Papatowai

The Sunrise Tour at Mohua Park was a bit disappointing due to timing. The guide was great, but the timing resulted in not being able to see the penguins as they were molting. It was still beautiful, but not seeing the wildlife as expected was a letdown.

Glowworm Kayak Tour
Rotorua

The Glowworm Kayak Tour was a fun adventure. We loved kayaking at night, and the weather was perfect. The tour provided coats, pants, and shoes, but it wasn't clear beforehand, so we brought unnecessary stuff. Better communication on equipment would improve the experience.

Wellington Lord of the Rings Tour - Full Day LOTR tour
Wellington

The Wellington Lord of the Rings Tour was incredible. Our guide did a great job, showing us not only Lord of the Rings locations but also giving us a fascinating tour of the city. He showed us unique spots, like a weaving mill, which was very interesting. We loved the personalized experience.

Hobbiton Movie Set Tour
New Zealand

The Hobbiton Movie Set Tour was absolutely amazing. It was the perfect day, and the gardens were phenomenal. Loved seeing the Shire and all the Hobbiton charm. It was a standout for sure!

Local specialist: Monika Vinsova
Monika Vinsova
Local specialist in Queenstown, New Zealand | Replied on Apr 14, 2026

Hi Don,

Thank you so much for your kind words — I’m really happy to hear you had such a great trip in New Zealand. It was a pleasure helping you plan it!

Wishing you many great travels ahead !

Warm regards, Monika

Why travelers love kimkim

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