New Zealand
Lord of the Rings landscapes. Fjords, mountains, adventure sports, and Maori culture.
About New Zealand
New Zealand packs incredible diversity into two islands - from subtropical beaches to alpine peaks, geothermal wonderlands to pristine fjords. The birthplace of bungee jumping offers endless adventures, while Maori culture adds depth, and friendly Kiwis ensure warm welcomes. Whether you seek adrenaline or tranquility, Middle Earth delivers.
What to See & Do
Milford Sound - dramatic fjord with towering cliffs and waterfalls
Queenstown - adventure capital with skiing, bungee, and scenery
Rotorua - geothermal pools and Maori cultural experiences
Bay of Islands - subtropical beaches and sailing
Fox & Franz Josef Glaciers - accessible glacier walks
Hobbiton - Lord of the Rings filming location
Where to Stay
Matakauri Lodge
luxuryLuxury lodge near Queenstown with lake views, spa, and alpine dining.
The Farm at Cape Kidnappers
luxuryRemote coastal lodge on North Island with golf course and gannet colony.
Treetops Lodge
boutiqueWilderness retreat in Rotorua with fly fishing and Maori cultural activities.
Activities & Experiences
Milford Sound Cruise
Full-day scenic drive and fjord cruise with lunch
Queenstown Bungee Jump
Original Kawarau Bridge bungee or Nevis highwire
Glacier Hike
Guided walk on Franz Josef Glacier with ice climbing
Hobbiton Movie Set Tour
Visit Shire filming location with ale at Green Dragon
Where to Eat
Amisfield Bistro
Contemporary NZ
Winery restaurant near Queenstown with Central Otago wines
Depot Eatery
Casual Kiwi
Auckland chef Al Brown's oyster bar and grill
Rata
Modern NZ
Josh Emett's Queenstown restaurant with local ingredients
Sample Itineraries
New Zealand Adventure
Arrive Auckland
- International flight
- City orientation
- Harbour dinner
- Rest
Rotorua
- Drive to Rotorua (3 hours)
- Te Puia Maori cultural center
- Geothermal park
- Hangi dinner
Hobbiton & Waitomo
- Hobbiton movie set tour
- Waitomo Glowworm Caves
- Return to Rotorua
- Polynesian Spa
Fly to Queenstown
- Morning flight
- Check into Matakauri Lodge
- Explore town
- Skyline Gondola sunset
Milford Sound
- Early departure for Milford
- Scenic drive
- Fjord cruise
- Return to Queenstown
Adventure Day
- Morning bungee jump OR jet boat
- Afternoon wine tour
- Free evening
- Dinner at Rata
Drive to Wanaka
- Scenic drive to Wanaka
- That Wanaka Tree photo
- Lake activities
- Overnight Wanaka
Glaciers
- Drive to Franz Josef
- Glacier hike or helicopter tour
- Hot pools
- Overnight glacier region
Christchurch
- Drive to Christchurch (5 hours)
- City exploration
- Botanic Gardens
- Farewell dinner
Departure
- Morning at leisure
- Flight home
Quick Facts
Region
Pacific
Best Time to Visit
Dec-Feb (summer), Jun-Aug (skiing)
When to Go
December-February is summer with warmest weather and longest days. June-August for skiing. March-May has fewer crowds and autumn colors.
Avoid: No bad time to visit - each season offers different activities. Winter (June-August) sees some road closures in South Island.
Getting There
Auckland (AKL) and Christchurch (CHC) are main international gateways. From U.S., fly via Los Angeles, San Francisco, or Honolulu (13+ hours). Domestic flights connect both islands. Rental cars essential for exploring.
Local Tips
- Book popular activities (Milford Sound, Hobbiton) weeks in advance
- Drive on the left - roads are winding but well-maintained
- Sandflies are fierce near fjords and glaciers - bring repellent
- Tip only for exceptional service - not expected in New Zealand
Ready to Experience New Zealand?
Our concierge team will craft a bespoke itinerary tailored to your preferences, handling every detail from flights to hidden gems.