Recently updated on April 30th, 2025 at 02:21 pm
From the dramatic fjords of the South Island to the cultural sights of the North Island, New Zealand is a dreamlike paradise just waiting to be explored. With Trafalgar, travel to the most spectacular corners of the country, enjoying unique experiences, stunning scenery and authentic cultural encounters. Here are 7 incredible experiences you can have on a New Zealand tour with Trafalgar.
Enjoy a traditional Māori feast at Tamaki Maori Village
Immerse yourself in local culture as you visit the Tamaki Māori Village in Rotorua. Enjoying an evening of history and traditional experiences, you’ll have the chance to stroll through the ancient forest village and learn about Māori art forms as you take in a concert featuring local performers. Afterwards, you’ll sample authentic cuisine as you enjoy a Māori Hangi Regional Dinner, with food such as chicken, kumara and potatoes being steamed underground. It’s the perfect way to experience Māori culture in New Zealand.
Explore the heritage-listed Fiordland National Park
Take a scenic drive through the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Fiordland National Park, one of New Zealand’s most remarkable destinations. You’ll be driving past native rainforests, beech forests, alluvial flats, rocky mountain ranges, meadows and more, stopping at the reflective Mirror Lakes, Cleddau Valley and, finally, the main attraction of Milford Sound. Cruise along the tranquil waters of this majestic landscape, seeing the Bowen, Stirling Falls and Mitre Peak. There’s a reason this enchanting park in the South Island is considered one of the best experiences to have in the world.
Stay at the eco-friendly Punakaiki Resort
Sit back and relax at one of Trafalgar’s special Stays with Stories on the South Island’s west coast. The eco-friendly Punakaiki Resort boasts beachfront views, sitting just a few hundred metres away from the iconic Blowholes of Punakaiki. Designed in harmony with the surrounding environment, the resort gives you unique insight to local ecology and nature. Because of this, the place also served as the perfect opportunity to wind down after days of sightseeing. Enjoying dinner with wine as you watch the waves roll in, you’ll be feeling the ultimate holiday vibes kick in.
Ride the Shotover Jet in Queenstown
Experience the exhilarating nature of New Zealand’s adventure capital, with a ride in the Shotover Jet in Queenstown. The only way to explore the picturesque scenery of the Shotover Canyons and River, the jet boat offers gorgeous views along with thrilling adrenaline rushes as you enjoy high speeds and 360 spins.
Sail around the Bay of Islands
Explore one of New Zealand’s most impressive coastal treasures, the Bay of Islands, with an idyllic cruise from Paihia. Take in the soul-stirring views of the region as you cruise through towards Cape Brett, passing through the ‘Hole In The Rock.’ You’ll be left in awe as you pass untouched beaches and bays, all while keeping your eyes peeled for dolphins, seals and penguins.
Take a helicopter ride above Franz Josef Glacier
See one of New Zealand’s natural treasures with a helicopter ride above Franz Josef Glacier (Kā Roimata o Hine Hukatere). This once-in-a-lifetime experience will see you fly above the icy peaks of the impressive 11km glacier, snapping photos you’ll treasure forever.
Explore the magical world of Hobbiton
Film buffs will love the opportunity to visit Hobbiton, the set from Peter Jackson’s Lord of the Rings trilogies. Explore the rolling green hills of The Shire, complete with colourful Hobbit Holes and movie memorabilia. Here, your guide reveals behind-the-scenes tales of how the films were made. Top off your tour with a trip to the infamous Green Dragon Inn and a Southfarthing beverage to wrap up your time in Middle Earth.
