Plan the Ultimate New Zealand Vacation

What to See & Do In This Breathtaking Country 

New Zealand, located in the southwestern Pacific Ocean, is an idyllic vacation destination. Whether you’re an adventurer or culture enthusiast, the "Land of the Long White Cloud," offers a wide array of unique experiences sure to delight all travelers.

With its snow-capped mountains, lush green valleys, vibrant cities, and rich cultural traditions, and booming wine/culinary scene, New Zealand has something for everyone! 

Here's why you should plan a dream vacation to New Zealand: 

• Stunning Natural Beauty: New Zealand is divided into two main islands, the North Island and the South Island, each with its own unique attractions and ecosystems. The North Island features geothermal wonders, sparkling beaches, and rolling hills, while the South Island is home to dramatic fjords, majestic mountains, and pristine lakes.

• Cultural Richness: Blending Māori heritage and European influences, New Zealand is a place of diverse culture and rich history. From art to cuisines, there are so many ways for visitors to experience its Kiwi traditions, art, and cuisine.

• A Delicious Culinary Scene: New Zealand cuisine is a vibrant blend of traditional Māori influences and modern culinary trends. Bursting with the country's abundant fresh produce, seafood, and lamb, you’ll be in food heaven with Māori dishes like hāngi, where food is slow-cooked in an earth oven. And, let’s not forget that world-renowned New Zealand wine from regions like Marlborough or Hawke’s Bay are the perfect accompaniment to any meal!

• Adventure Awaits: Whether you’re a thrill seeker or prefer something more serene, New Zealand is packed with unique experiences and adventure. Popular activities include cycling tours, jet safaris, and zipline tours in Queenstown and boating through the waters of  Abel Tasman National Park. 

When planning your New Zealand itinerary, these destinations cannot be missed!

Queenstown: New Zealand’s premier destination

Also known as the "Adventure Capital of the World," thrill-seekers will be at home in Queenstown, located in the South Island. From bungy jumping to jet boating, travelers will not only be treated to endless adventure, but a stunning backdrop of alpine scenery as well. There’s no greater place in the world for bungy jumping than New Zealand, as it boasts the Kawarau Bridge, where it all started and the Nevis Bungy site for the most daring and highest bungy jump in the world at 134m high.

Visitors can ride the Skyline Gondola for panoramic views, indulge in world-class dining, or explore nearby wineries. In addition to worldclass cuisine, Queensland is a haven for wine lovers. Don’t miss a trip out to nearby Gibbston Valley, home to some of the world’s best Pinot Noir. Additionally, the town’s vibrant nightlife and welcoming atmosphere make it a favorite among travelers year-round.  

Outside of Queenstown are the picturesque Milford Sound and Doubtful Sound. Board a ship for leisurely cruises that offer panoramic views of sheer mountains towering cliffs, rugged valleys, and native rainforest surrounded by teeming waterfalls and glacial lakes. You may even spot native wildlife, including seals, dolphins, and penguins when in season.

Other incredible Queensland tour options include Wilderness Jet Safaris, Central Otago Wine Tours, scenic helicopter flights, and for heritage-lovers, a cruise on Lake Wakatipu for a visit to the historic town of Arrowtown, a gold-rush village.

Franz Josef: New Zealand’s largest glacier

Located on New Zealand’s South Island, the Franz Josef Glacier is an iconic natural wonder that simply cannot be missed. Stretching approximately 12 kilometers from the Southern Alps to the temperate rainforest below, Franz Josef is one of the world's lowest-lying and most unusual glaciers. The glacier offers a rare combination of ice formations, cascading waterfalls, and lush greenery. While the glacier cannot be seen from the town, the glacier valley is located a short drive away and can be explored on foot. The ice, however, can be accessed by helicopter. 

One of the best ways to explore this majestic destination is through a Heli Hike, which combines an extraordinary scenic helicopter ride over the glacier with an informative guided walk through the alpine environment's ice caves, pinnacles, and seracs. 

Auckland: New Zealand’s Largest City

Auckland, also called the “City of Sails” is a vibrant city known for its stunning harbors and rich maritime culture, treating visitors to New Zealand breathtaking views, golden beaches, and lush green parks. Though Auckland is technically a city, it’s a unique destination which offers a cosmopolitan experience surrounded by a unique aquatic environment and over 50 islands.

Consider taking the 35-minute ferry to Waiheke Island, also known as “The Island of wine” for lively and delicious wine tastings and tours, as well as olive oil tastings, shopping, and taking in the Island’s numerous gorgeous beaches.

While in Auckland, enjoy comfortable climates, urban sophistication, natural beauty, and sights such as the 55 volcanoes and the marine village of Devonport, sailing on Waitemata Harbour, and tour of its famous West Coast, where you’ll be treated to spectacular views of both the Pacific Ocean and the Tasman Sea.  

From the food to the festivals, Auckland is waiting for exploration!

Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park: New Zealand’s Tallest Peak

Located in New Zealand's South Island, Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park is known for breathtaking landscapes, outdoor adventures, shimmering glaciers, and pristine lakes. A UNESCO World Heritage-listed destination, get ready for the famous Roaring Meg Lookout,  Lake Pukaki, one of the bluest lakes you’ll ever experience, and of course, the 3,724m/12,218ft high mountain Aoraki/Mount Cook.

A paradise for hikers and nature lovers, the park offers unique opportunities to connect with nature and experience New Zealand's stunning wilderness. The Hooker Valley Hike in Mount Cook offers stunning landscapes of the Southern Alps and is a can’t-miss experience for hikers. Plan for this winding hike to take 3-4 hours as it  follows the Hooker Valley floor to Hooker Lake. This experience is a must for any New Zealand vacation.

Rotorua: New Zealand’s Natural Geothermal Parks

The Earth’s natural beauty is on full display in Rotorua, New Zealand. Located in the heart of the North Island, visit Rotorua's most natural and popular geothermal parks, Wai O Tapu and Waimangu Volcanic Valley. Here you’ll experience volcanoes, steaming geysers, New Zealand's largest boiling mud pool, and relaxing hot springs surrounded by gorgeous landscapes and exotic forests. 

Travelers can also enjoy geothermal marvels on the tranquil shores of Lake Rotorua at Polynesian Spa, which feature 27 mineral pools fed from the park’s natural springs. The pools are filled with soothing alkaline mineral water, which will leave your skin and spirit refreshed and relaxed! 

Other popular attractions include Eco Thermal Park Tours, an Evening Maori cultural Experience featuring Te Puia's world-famous 3-hour Hangi buffet dinner and cultural performance, Hobbiton, the ten-acre site where the Lord of the Rings was filmed, and strolling through the Rotorua Redwoods Treewalk.

Christchurch: New Zealand’s “Garden City”

Located on the east coast of the South Island, Christchurch is the second largest city in New Zealand, blends historic charm with modern innovation. Showcasing its resilience following the 2010-2011 earthquakes, visitors will marvel at the vast parks, including the iconic Hagley Park and the Christchurch Botanic Gardens, dynamic arts scene, world-class dining, diverse accommodations, state-of-the-art architecture, and rich Māori and European heritage.

With its picturesque Avon River and nearby beaches, Christchurch offers a perfect mix of urban life and natural beauty. Travelers will also enjoy riverside markets, riding the Christchurch Tram, and an authentic Punt ride along the Avon River. 

Start Planning Your Dream Vacation to New Zealand

A vacation in New Zealand is more than just a getaway, it’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to connect with nature, culture, and your adventurous spirit.

Here at Aspire Down Under, our expert team has traveled extensively throughout New Zealand and can offer you the most authentic, unique, and yes, affordable visitor experiences. Let us help you plan the ultimate trip to New Zealand! Contact us today and we can create a customized itinerary tailored to your interests, time and budget. 

Are you ready to embrace the Kiwi spirit and visit New Zealand? 

We can help!