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New Zealand Destination guide

As the world leader in travel experiences since 1947, we connect you to the real New Zealand in a way like no other. Known for mountains, Manuka honey and Middle Earth, New Zealand is one of the most unique countries in the world and visiting it is an experience like no other. The indigenous Māori people call New Zealand Aotearoa, meaning land of the long white cloud, and the New Zealand people, fondly referred to as Kiwis, are proud of Aotearoa's local culture and history. Starting from the sea and heading to the mountains, we'll explore everything that New Zealand has to offer. We'll begin by taking an Auckland city tour, a cruise on the famous Milford Sound and bite into a mince and cheese pie. We'll sip New Zealand's Lemon & Paeroa drink while we learn about the traditions of the Māori people and visit Wellington's popular Great War Exhibition. Adventure in New Zealand is easy to find with the unique and the unexpected lurking around every corner. Travel with us and unlock the infinite possibilities thanks to our exclusive Trafalgar Highlights.

If you’re travelling again soon, you can check what travel restrictions are in place in New Zealand.

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5 million happy guests and counting

Overall Rating

4.6

Out of 5

Based on 96,679 independent reviews
"New Zealand is undoubtedly one of the world's most stunning countries, from Milford Sound and Middle Earth to the golden islands of Marlborough Sounds"
Travel Director
New Zealand at a glance
Cruise the Milford Sound, explore Middle Earth, discover bubbling geysers and dazzling lakes, learn the traditions of the indigenous Māori people, and taste some of the world's finest wines. Join your local expert Trafalgar Travel Director and get under the surface of the 'land of the long white cloud'.
Currency
New Zealand dollar
Winter avg
10°C
Summer avg
15°C
Time Zone
GMT+12
Capital City
Wellington
Language
English
Good morning
Good morning
Good evening
Good evening
New Zealand Cuisine

Our top 5 things to do in New Zealand

From the tip of the North Island to the tail of the South Island, there is no shortage of things to do in New Zealand to keep you occupied. These are just a few of the remarkable moments we'll share with you during our time in NZ.

View the Southern Alps from the TranzAlpine train

Take the journey of a lifetime on the TranzAlpine train, where you'll see the most unforgettable views of the alps. You can expect spectacular views and world-class service onboard, as well as a viewing deck for taking all-important holiday snaps.
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Learn about the traditions of the Māori

Māori traditions are a vital part of New Zealand's culture and heritage. Pay a visit to Tongariro National Park, which holds a significant spiritual value for the Māori people, and indulge in a traditional Hāngī meal cooked under the earth.
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Cruise on Milford Sound

Surrounded by waterfalls and rainforests, the Milford Sound fjord is New Zealand's most picturesque attraction, often described as the "eighth wonder of the world". Sit back, relax and absorb the magnificent scenery aboard one of the many boats that operate daily.
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Visit the Tamaki Māori Village in Rotorua

Set it the ancient Tawa forest, the unique experience at Tamaki recreates a traditional working Māori village. It offers Māori dance and music shows, as well as cultural crafts like carving and weaving and. With all activities, there's ample opportunity to get involved and learn about the Māori culture first-hand.
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Take the Auckland city tour

Discover Auckland's golden beaches, picturesque parks and historical buildings on our comprehensive city tour. You'll not only learn about the history of the city, but you'll also discover the best places to eat, drink and relax in Auckland. Complete with a visit to Mount Eden, which has views right across the city.
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Best museums in New Zealand

By exploring New Zealand's museums and art galleries, you can get a unique perspective on the origins of this dynamic, proud country. These are just of the museums we'll share with you to peel back layers of the country.
Auckland

Auckland War Memorial Museum

The iconic exterior only hints at the unique and extensive collection within. The museum houses a large selection of historical artefacts that showcase the rich and brutal history of New Zealand and the Pacific, as well as over 1.5 million natural history specimens.
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Wellington

The Great War Exhibition

Constructed as a passion project by director Sir Peter Jackson, the Great War Exhibition tells the story of New Zealanders who fought and lived through the First World War. Although the exhibition includes many original artefacts, the life-sized sets and colourised black and white photos are standouts.
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Christchurch

Christchurch Art Gallery Te Puna O Waiwhetu

Housing a substantial art collection, The Christchurch Art Gallery Te Puna o Waiwhetū also runs a rotating programme of local and international exhibitions. Don't miss their late-night tours, which are not only free but one of the best ways to visit the gallery.
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Best food in New Zealand

New Zealand easily tempts the tastebuds with its fresh, local and tasty cuisine. From savoury treats to sparkling citrusy drinks, our New Zealand trips will ensure you leave with a full and satisfied stomach.

Mince and cheese pie

Gaining popularity in the 1970s, this unique pie has layers of melted cheese just under the crispy outer crust that take the typical pastry to new heights. Find these hand-sized pastries at cafés, bakeries, and supermarkets, and local bakeries where they're baked fresh every day.
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Kiwi burger

Dreamt up in 1976, the Kiwi burger contains all the usual fixings; a fresh beef patty, lettuce, tomato, cheese, onions and tomato sauce with some unique extras like beetroot, crispy egg and mustard. Although tasty burgers are available at most burger chains in New Zealand, there are cult stores that plate them up to five-star standards.
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Lemon & Paeroa (L&P)

With carbonated water from Paeroa and fresh local lemon juice, New Zealand's L&P drink is a refreshing and popular way to cool down and energise. For an extra kick, the infamous Lemon & Paeroa drink is a popular cocktail base in many parts of New Zealand.
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What to pack for New Zealand

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A camera and a memory card

With so many unforgettable views, make sure you pack a camera (and a spare memory card) to ensure you get the best shots. New Zealand's endlessly photographic surrounds are worth printing and framing.

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Ample bag space

With woolen jumpers and fresh Manuka honey on offer, spare bag space is a must when you travel New Zealand. Just make sure you check your local customs restrictions before you go.

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Comfortable walking shoes

With everything New Zealand offers to explore, make sure you take care of your feet by packing comfortable shoes. That way, you avoid missing a day of activity due to blisters and aches.

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Seasonal essentials

Whether you're heading to New Zealand's mountains to ski or the beaches for a swim, you may need seasonal essentials. Consider warm clothes and swimwear to make the most of your New Zealand trips.

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Small portable charger

With so much to see and do in New Zealand, your devices are likely to wear down quite quickly. Keep a portable charger on hand to make sure your devices are ready when you are.

Other things to know before you go

Depending on your nationality, you'll need a valid passport and may also need visas to enter. Please check this well in advance of your trip departure date here. Some countries also require passports to have 3-6 months left on them before the given expiry date, so be sure to double check this before booking your travels.

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Our Australia & New Zealand destinations

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