Cindery volcanoes shrouded in M膩ori mythology. Belching mud pools and simmering geysers. Glaciers riven with menthol-blue crevasses. New Zealand could easily have sprung from a fantasy realm — just ask Peter Jackson.
Our specialists can help you connect deeply with New Zealand in the most engaging ways possible. Using their first-hand knowledge, they’ll suggest places and experiences that many visitors rush past — like observing kiwis at night as they beak the undergrowth in Zealandia, a predator-free sanctuary in Wellington, or taking the time to complete a multi-day “tramp” along one of the country’s many scenic hiking tracks.
They can also help you appreciate the highlights at quieter times of year, when the country arguably shines even brighter. While whale-watching always offers spectacle, springtime ups the drama, dusting the Kaikoura ranges with snow. And, a crisp Marlborough sauvignon blanc somehow tastes even better in vineyards showing off their autumn palette of russet and gold.
Once you’ve made the journey to get there, exploring New Zealand is easy. Expect an efficient network of internal flights, quiet, well-maintained roads, and some of the most scenic drives — and rail journeys — on the planet.
You’re also treated like family: this is the kind of place where you’ll call in at a coffee shop and get chatting over a flat white, where your B&B hosts can feel like long-lost relatives, and where spending a day with your M膩ori guide in Auckland begins with a warm ceremonial greeting.
Wherever your interests lie, your specialist will capture the best ways for you to experience New Zealand so you can connect to it fully.
Our ideas for exploring New Zealand
Browse our trip ideas across both the North and South islands to see how yours could take shape. We鈥檝e woven in scenic train journeys, helicopter tours, and opportunities to get out on the water, from jetboating to cruising the Sounds.
Where to stay in New Zealand
We鈥檝e hand-picked stays that enhance your trip and showcase quintessential New Zealand hospitality, be it rooms with views of the ocean or mountains, or B&B hosts who鈥檒l welcome you with complimentary wine tastings.
-
![Aerial view of the Allegra House]()
Allegra House
Located high on the hill overlooking Paihia and the ocean, Allegra House is a wonderful place to stay in the heart of the Bay of Islands, with its friendly hosts and rooms that boast excellent views.
-
![The Rees Apartment Hotel, Queenstown]()
The Rees Hotel & Luxury Apartments
Enjoying a delightful lakefront location on the approach to Queenstown, the Rees is an excellent value hotel with spacious rooms and apartments.
-
![Cobden Garden Homestay, Napier]()
Cobden Garden Homestay
Just a ten-minute stroll from the centre of the city of Napier, the Cobden Garden Homestay's three guest rooms with spacious en suite facilities, offer a cosy night's rest.
Ways to experience New Zealand
Take in waterfalls and granite-walled fiords as you hike the Hollyford Track, or walk among sacred kauri trees at twilight to the soft chants of your M膩ori guide 鈥� just two standout experiences we鈥檝e hand-picked across New Zealand.
-
![Sperm whale, Kaikoura]()
Whale Watching in Kaikoura
Spot whales surfacing in Kaikoura, New Zealand. You鈥檒l head out to sea for three hours with a responsible local tour operator and guide, where you have exceptionally high chances of viewing sperm whales, dusky dolphins, fur seals, and royal albatrosses.
-
![River on the Hollyford Track, New Zealand]()
Walk the Hollyford Track
This easy-paced three day valley walk encompasses crystal clear rivers, mirror-like lakes, waterfalls, reefs, sand dunes and surf, against the backdrop of the soaring, snow-capped Darran Mountains.
-
![Kauri trees, Waipoua Forest]()
Waipoua Forest Twilight Encounter
The spiritual environment of the Waipoua Forest provides a natural stage for an unforgettable encounter with some of the largest remaining kauri trees in the world.
More inspiration for your New Zealand trip
Our specialists have lived or travelled extensively in New Zealand, and have shared their expert insights in these travel guides to help you explore your passions and venture beyond the obvious.
-
Experiencing New Zealand through M膩ori eyes ![Hone Mihaka, Maori guide, Northland]()
Experiencing New Zealand through M膩ori eyes
Experiencing New Zealand through M膩ori eyes
M膩ori culture is multi-layered and an indelible part of New Zealand鈥檚 fabric. Here, Audley鈥檚 country specialists share their recommendations for the best M膩ori experiences to include in your New Zealand tour, ranging from intimate family dinners to guided forest walks.
Read this guide -
Observing New Zealand鈥檚 wildlife by land, sea and starlight ![Dolphin pod, Kaikoura]()
Observing New Zealand鈥檚 wildlife by land, sea and starlight
Observing New Zealand鈥檚 wildlife by land, sea and starlight
Yes, you can increase your chances of seeing a wild kiwi, and no, you don鈥檛 necessarily need to get on a boat to go whale watching. Specialists Holly and Lucy share the how, why, what and where of New Zealand鈥檚 wildlife highlights.
Read this guide -
Hidden highlights of New Zealand ![Beach, Queen Charlotte Sound]()
Hidden highlights of New Zealand
Hidden highlights of New Zealand
Want an even richer, more meaningful trip to New Zealand? Consider exploring beyond the obvious places and activities, says New Zealand specialist Amy, and you鈥檒l discover more authentic M膩ori cultural experiences, even better wildlife viewing, and landscapes emptied of touring crowds.
Read this guide
New Zealand in pictures
