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New Zealand Vacations: Discover the Land of “The Lord of the Rings”
The stunning and diverse landscape of the two main islands in the South Pacific is a must-see for The Lord of the Rings fans. But even if you’re not a fan of the movie series, you shouldn’t miss out on the country’s natural highlights and make a trip to New Zealand a must on your bucket list. Spectacular volcanoes and glaciers shape the image of this top travel destination.
More Info on New Zealand Tours
Practical Information for Your New Zealand Vacation
New Zealand is fascinating. With snow-capped mountains, summery beaches, impressive glaciers and dense rainforests – all of this is located in New Zealand within close proximity. In just one day, you can experience all four seasons and the most diverse vegetation. How about swimming in the morning and hiking in the afternoon? A vacation in New Zealand makes this possible. This island nation in the South Pacific is geographically part of Oceania and is located between Australia, New Caledonia, and the South Sea islands of Tonga and Fiji. To the south, New Zealand borders Antarctica. The North and South Islands together make up a land area of around 104,000 square miles.
And the rumor that there are more sheep than people in New Zealand? It might be true: About 4.7 million people call New Zealand home. In the capital, Wellington, the clocks are ten hours ahead of ours. The currency is the New Zealand dollar.
New Zealand is a travel paradise for good reason, sparking wanderlust. Friendly people who value and preserve their stunning natural surroundings, a diverse landscape where you can find everything from icy glaciers to pristine beaches, and vibrant cities with charm – all of this awaits you on your New Zealand vacation.
Overview of New Zealand
New Zealand consists of two islands: the North Island and the South Island. On a world map, New Zealand is located at the bottom right, and it quickly becomes clear that here, the clock runs differently. While it’s daytime here, New Zealanders are asleep, and vice versa. The New Zealand summer falls when we’re shoveling snow, so the Kiwis can celebrate Christmas with a barbecue on the beach.
Tourists from all over the world primarily flock to New Zealand because of its breathtaking natural beauty, and the variety is hard to beat. From dream beaches to mountains and volcanoes to hot springs and geysers, everything is represented. Pack your bags and experience the adventure of a lifetime!
Getting There & Entry Requirements for New Zealand
How to Get to New Zealand
A trip around the world: New Zealand is more than 7,000 miles from the United States. Consequently, flights are long, with an average flight time of about 13 hours, including one or two layovers. Flights to New Zealand depart from major cities, including flights to New Zealand from Los Angeles, flights to New Zealand from Dallas and flights to New Zealand from San Francisco. The key airports in New Zealand are:
Christchurch (CHC)
Wellington (WLG)
Entry Requirements for New Zealand
If you plan to stay in New Zealand for less than 90 days, you won’t need a visa. All you need is a valid passport. The passport must remain valid for at least one month beyond your planned stay. Temporary passports are also accepted. Additionally, you must show a return or onward ticket and proof of sufficient funds, which can be in the form of cash, checks, or credit cards. For other purposes, such as working or staying longer, you will need a visa.
US Working Holiday Visa for New Zealand
With a Working Holiday Visa, you can live, work and study in New Zealand for up to a year. This visa is the only way you’re allowed to work, allowing you to finance your travels. To apply, you must have at least NZ $4,200 for your stay. For more information, you can visit the website of New Zealand’s immigration office.
Weather and Climate in New Zealand
New Zealand has nearly opposite climatic conditions compared to most other places. Even the New Zealand winter, due to the country ’s proximity to the coast and the strong sun, is very different from what we’re used to. Snow is common in the mountains during winter, and there are numerous ski resorts on both islands. The North Island is generally milder and more tropical than the South Island. However, it is often said that in New Zealand, you can experience all four seasons in a single day. In general, the further south you go, the cooler it gets.
Best Time to Visit New Zealand
January, February, and March are considered the warmest months and the best time to visit New Zealand, with high season and many travelers on the move. July is the coldest month, and it also rains more frequently in winter. Either way, you’ll enjoy plenty of sunshine during your stay, as most parts of New Zealand receive over 2,000 hours of sunshine annually. Don’t forget your sunscreen, as the UV rays are strong due to low air pollution, and sunburns can happen very quickly. Sunscreens with SPF 50 or even 70 are common in New Zealand supermarkets.
Highlights & Vacation Regions in New Zealand
Must-See Destinations
New Zealand offers plenty of must-do experiences. Here are some things you should definitely add to your itinerary:
A visit to the Shire: The original filming location of “The Lord of the Rings” in Matamata
Whale Watching in Kaikoura: Track the sperm whales
The remote sandy beaches: Located in Abel Tasman National Park
The Franz Josef Glacier: Where glaciers meet rainforests
Highlights on New Zealand’s South Island
Majestic fjords, pristine landscapes, and Mount Cook make the South Island a favorite destination for nature lovers. Here are the most beautiful spots:
Christchurch
Fiordland National Park
Mount Cook
Christchurch – The Charming Metropolis of New Zealand
Action, nightlife, adventure: In Christchurch, you can stroll through the city’s entertainment districts, wander through markets and shopping streets, and enjoy the serene nature in the Botanic Gardens. In the surrounding area, you can marvel at the world’s smallest dolphins. In Akaroa Harbour, the chances are excellent to observe Hector’s dolphins jumping.
Our Insider Tip: Just outside of Christchurch, you can get up close to New Zealand’s shy national bird, the kiwi, at the Willowbank Wildlife Reserve.
In the Land of Fjords in New Zealand
Covering almost 5,000 square miles, Fiordland National Park is the largest national park in New Zealand — and it offers unparalleled natural experiences. Waterfalls crashing into mighty fjords, hundreds of miles of hiking trails guiding you through impressive mountain and glacier landscapes, sparkling mountain lakes, and wild plains, all alongside fascinating wildlife, including penguins, thousands of exotic birds, and sea lions — this is the unique charm of this New Zealand highlight.
At the Highest Mountain in New Zealand
Prepare for a real challenge by climbing New Zealand’s highest peak. Aoraki, which means “Piercer of the Clouds” in Māori, stands at over 12,00 feet. The ascent is only for experienced climbers. However, Mount Cook National Park is well worth the trip on its own. The mighty 9,500-foot peak dominates the alpine landscape, home to the iconic New Zealand Kea bird.
The Most Beautiful Highlights of the North Island for Your New Zealand Vacation
“Let’s go to perfect places” – This line from a song by New Zealand singer Lorde perfectly captures the essence of the country, which undeniably belongs in the “Perfect Places” category. New Zealand has a magnetic appeal that is hard to describe in words. Not to mention, the country was named among Lonely Planet’s trending destinations in past years! Here are some must-see spots on the North Island that should definitely make it onto your travel agenda:
Auckland
Wellington
Rotorua
Coromandel Peninsula
Taupo
Waitomo Caves
Tongariro National Park
Tauranga
Mount Taranaki
Hobbiton
Northland, Bay of Islands, and Cape Reinga
Auckland, New Zealand’s Largest City
Most travelers arrive in Auckland, as it’s not only the country’s largest international airport but also its largest city, with a population of about 1.7 million people (in 2021). The city offers a real urban experience. Take your time to wander around and get settled in. If you’re a wine enthusiast, we recommend a trip to Waiheke Island, located just off the coast of the city, where you’ll find numerous vineyards. Cheers!
Auckland is also home to several inactive volcanoes that you can hike. The ascent of Mount Eden is particularly worthwhile as it provides an amazing panoramic view of the entire city.
If you’re looking to dive into the nightlife, you can’t miss K’ Road (short for Karangahape Road), Auckland’s version of the famous Reeperbahn. This mile-long stretch is lined with restaurants, bars, clubs, trendy boutiques, second-hand shops, and sex shops. Basically, it’s got everything. Just around the corner is the more upscale Ponsonby Road, which leads you into the eponymous neighborhood. It’s a bit more relaxed here, and you’ll notice the people seem to have a bit more money. You’ll find some great restaurants and bars, including Burger Burger, where you can indulge in the “Kiwi Classic Burger.” This New Zealand specialty includes a fried egg and pickled beetroot alongside the usual cheeseburger ingredients — definitely a must-try!
A dream beach not far from Auckland is Piha Beach, and it’s worth spending the day there. Another spot we recommend is Muriwai Beach, located a bit north of Piha Beach. Here, you can visit the famous Muriwai Gannet Colony. Gannets are seabirds that build their nests and hatch their chicks here between August and March, creating a spectacular sight that’s fascinating to watch. Don’t miss it!
Wellington, New Zealand’s Capital
After so much nature, are you craving a bit of city life? No problem! Your next stop is Wellington, New Zealand’s capital, located at the southern tip of the North Island. This location has earned it the nickname “Windy City,” as the weather here can often be, well, rather unpredictable. However, you might get lucky and enjoy plenty of sunshine as well. One absolute must-do in the city is a visit to Te Papa Tongarewa, New Zealand’s national museum. Even if you’re not typically a museum person, this one will surprise and delight you — promise!
Another popular attraction is the iconic Wellington Cable Car, a red funicular that offers stunning views of the city. If you’d rather save a few bucks and get some exercise, you can take the hike up instead. From the top, you’ll have an excellent view of the capital, and while you’re there, don’t miss the beautiful Botanic Garden, where you can learn about New Zealand’s flora. If you’re planning to travel to the South Island, Wellington also serves as the departure point for the ferry to the South Island.
Pirate tip: Fish and chips are a staple of New Zealand cuisine, and one of the best places to enjoy them is Mt Vic Chippery. The lunch specials are especially great for a bargain. If you’re indecisive about what to eat, head to the Capital Market’s international food court, where you can find a wide range of delicious options to please any foodie.
Rotorua in New Zealand
Things are heating up now, pirates, because Rotorua is a geothermic wonderland! From geysers and hot springs to bubbling mud pools, the ground here is constantly simmering, and the pungent scent of sulfur fills the air. Rotorua is built on a volcanic hotspot, so it’s no wonder many tourists flock here to witness the geothermal spectacle.
One of the most popular attractions is the Whakarewarewa Geothermal Field, which is also home to a Māori community. Here, you can marvel at several geysers, the Blue Pool, and many mud pools. There’s also a free park in the center of Rotorua where you can see hot springs and mud pools for yourself.
Pirate tip: Be sure to visit Whakarewarewa Forest, where you can not only admire the ferns but also see giant redwood trees — something you’d typically associate with California!
New Zealand’s Coromandel Peninsula
Time to escape the city, as the real charm of New Zealand lies outside its urban areas. Your next stop is the stunning Coromandel Peninsula. This peninsula offers dreamy beaches, rolling hills, and subtropical rainforests. If you’re lucky, you might even hear the call of the kiwi bird at night. One of the area’s most famous hot springs is located at Hot Water Beach. Here, visitors can often be seen digging small pools in the sand to enjoy the naturally hot water.
The most photographed spot on the peninsula is the magnificent Cathedral Cove. To reach this cove, you’ll need to hike for about 45 minutes, and it can get crowded, so it’s best to arrive early to avoid the crowds.
Pirate tip: In the small town of Kuaotunu in the northern part of the peninsula, there’s not much to see except a beautiful beach. But if you find yourself passing through, make sure to stop by Luke’s Kitchen & Cafe. You’ll get amazing coffee and some of the tastiest pizzas around!
Taupo, New Zealand
Further south lies the picturesque town of Taupo, nestled along the shores of the lake of the same name. If you still haven’t had enough of geysers and other geothermal wonders, you can make a quick stop at the Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland on your way, as it’s just along the route.
Lake Taupo is a crater lake and the largest in the country. Be sure to go for a swim if the weather permits — the water is incredibly clear. In the western bays of the lake, you can find the famous Māori rock carvings, some of which stand several meters high. A kayaking trip is a great way to explore these, or you can even swim to them from a nearby bay. The nearby Huka Falls, towering at about 11 meters, are also worth a visit — these waterfalls are simply stunning.
Waitomo Caves, New Zealand
Your next stop takes you underground to explore the famous Waitomo Caves. But these aren’t just any caves — they’re home to glowworms. These glowworms don’t fly. Instead, they hang from the cave ceilings, using sticky threads to catch prey. The caves are an absolutely mesmerizing experience, and the glowworms create an ethereal atmosphere — if you didn’t know better, you’d think you were under a starry sky. If you’re seeking more adventure, you can also join a Blackwater Rafting tour. It’s like rafting but through a network of caves, so don’t forget your headlamp!
Pirate tip: On your way to Hobbiton from the Waitomo Caves, you’ll pass through the small and unassuming town of Otorohanga. Here, you’ll find the Otorohanga Kiwi House and Native Bird Park, where you can see the iconic Kiwi birds. It’s a rare opportunity, as spotting them in the wild is nearly impossible — though you might hear them calling out at night. The best part? It’s not a zoo. The park actively breeds Kiwis and then releases them into safe, natural habitats.
Tongariro National Park, New Zealand
Now it’s time for the mountains, pirates! Your next stop is the spectacular Tongariro National Park, located almost in the center of the North Island on the Central Volcanic Plateau. This park is home to three active volcanoes, with Mount Ngauruhoe being the most famous for its role as Mount Doom in the Lord of the Rings films.
The Tongariro Alpine Crossing is one of the world’s most popular day hikes, and it’s highly recommended. On this trek, you’ll get up close to the volcanoes and be treated to breathtaking views of pristine blue mountain lakes. The hike is 12 miles long, and you’ll need a shuttle to return to your starting point. If you’d prefer a shorter hike, you can turn back halfway at the mountain lakes and still see the most stunning parts of the trail. Since accommodations are scarce in and around the national park, we recommend staying in the nearby town of Turangi, which is just 20 minutes by car from the start of the hike.
Update: Since this year, a new regulation limits parking at the trailhead to just four hours during the summer months. If you plan to complete the full hike, you’ll need to arrange for a shuttle service or get a ride from a friend or acquaintance.
Tauranga, New Zealand
Tauranga is a small town located right on the coast in the Bay of Plenty. The region is home to the largest kiwi farming areas in New Zealand, as well as thriving avocado orchards. Hiking up Mount Maunganui is highly recommended, as you’ll be rewarded with an amazing panoramic view of Tauranga and the Bay of Plenty.
Taranaki Region, New Zealand
On the west coast of New Zealand’s North Island lies the Taranaki region, dominated by the towering Mount Taranaki (also known as Mount Egmont), which stands over 8,000 feet. According to legend, the volcano was originally part of the Tongariro National Park but moved to its current location after an argument with the other volcanoes there.
From December to March, it’s possible to summit the peak without professional equipment, but be sure to check the weather conditions at the visitor center and exercise caution before attempting the climb.
Hobbiton, for Lord of the Rings Fans
Now it’s time to make the hearts of movie fans race — because we’re heading to Hobbiton! Ever since the Lord of the Rings films, New Zealand has become synonymous with Middle-Earth, and you’ll constantly stumble upon filming locations. But Hobbiton is undoubtedly the epicenter. A visit to the original film set is an absolute must, and for many visitors, it’s one of the top highlights of a trip to New Zealand.
Northland, Bay of Islands, and Cape Reinga
If you have extra time on your hands, the area north of Auckland is highly recommended. The Northland region is considered the birthplace of New Zealand, both for the Māori indigenous people and the European settlers. The historic Treaty of Waitangi, which laid the foundation for New Zealand as a nation, was signed here.
Northland is rich in natural beauty and historical significance, with the iconic Cape Reinga, located at the northernmost tip of the country, offering spectacular views. You can also try sandboarding or sand-surfing on the surrounding dunes. Another must-see is Ninety Mile Beach, where you can drive along the extremely wide sand beach. However, driving here is recommended only with a 4WD vehicle — many car rental companies even discourage or prohibit driving on this beach.
In the Bay of Islands, the pace slows down, and you’ll find stunning beaches perfect for sailing or swimming.
New Zealand’s Culture
New Zealand is a multicultural country, shaped by both European and Māori influences, and this diversity is reflected in its people. Many places in New Zealand are named in the Māori language, and the central Māori ethos of “respect for the land and people” is woven into daily life. Much of the country is under conservation, and sustainability is a core part of New Zealand’s way of life.
New Zealand Cuisine
New Zealand’s cuisine is shaped by two central influences: Western food culture blends with the dishes, spices, and cooking methods of the Maori. The Maori traditionally cook their meals in an earth oven called a Hāngi, where vegetables, meat, and fish are gently cooked. If you come across a Hāngi in New Zealand, make sure to try it. Even fast food spots today offer Hāngi packs “to go.” New Zealand lamb is also world-renowned for being particularly tender and flavorful.
Finding Cheap Flights to New Zealand
When it comes to distance, you can’t get much farther than New Zealand. It’s literally on the opposite side of the world. However, flights to Auckland and occasionally even to Christchurch or Wellington are no longer as unaffordable as they once were. The cheapest flights are often found with Asian airlines. Flights to New Zealand with more popular carriers like United or American Airlines tend to be pricier. Simply compare the available options for your travel dates, considering factors like travel time and number of layovers.
Hotels in New Zealand
Whether you’re a backpacker or seeking luxury, hotels in New Zealand offer something for every type of traveler. If you’re traveling independently, you’ll find a range of well-maintained campsites, from beachfront spots to remote locations in national parks. As an alternative to camping, there are Bachs — small vacation homes that originated after World War II in picturesque spots like lakes, coves, forests, and valleys. These charming cabins are now a popular choice for travelers and are often equipped with modern amenities. In the cities, you’ll find a wide range of accommodations, from budget motels and hostels to stylish New Zealand boutique hotels and luxury resorts.
Car Rentals in New Zealand
Exploring New Zealand by car is undoubtedly the best way to experience all it has to offer. One important thing to remember: drive on the left! The flexibility of having a rental car is invaluable, as there’s so much to see and plenty of opportunities to stop for photos. Many travelers planning longer stays buy a used car and sell it at the end of their trip, but this is only recommended if you’re staying for several months.
For shorter trips, renting a car in New Zealand or even a campervan is a great option. Campervans are especially popular in New Zealand because self-contained vehicles allow you to camp almost anywhere. These vehicles are equipped with a bathroom and a sink with a freshwater supply. Wild camping (freedom camping) has become a problem in some areas, with locals opposing it. If you’re driving a non-self-contained vehicle, you might run into issues and even face fines, especially if you’re woken up early in the morning.
Pirate tip: The “CamperMate” app is an excellent travel companion. It provides up-to-date information on campgrounds and shows you nearby attractions, gas stations, and Wi-Fi hotspots. You can even download maps and all the information, which is perfect for your road trip.
We also recommend carrying an international driver’s permit if you plan to drive in New Zealand. Another relevant tip is that while diesel is significantly cheaper than gasoline, New Zealand imposes a diesel tax known as the Road User Charge (RUC). This is displayed on a sticker on the windshield, showing how far the RUC has been paid. The charge is calculated per 1,000 kilometers (620 miles), and the rate depends on the vehicle type. We found that driving a diesel car worked out to be more cost-effective for us.
One last tip: drive carefully! In New Zealand, things move at a slower pace, and the roads often don’t permit high speeds. Depending on where you are, you might even encounter a penguin or a kiwi on the road, which is something you definitely want to avoid. Possums, considered a pest in New Zealand, also frequently cross the streets.
Browse the best prices on car rentals to find deals on compact cars, SUVs and trucks. Whatever you choose, make sure to look for the “full coverage with no deductible” insurance option and the “full/full” fuel policy
Additional Tips
We’ve gathered more tips to make your New Zealand trip easier. As mentioned earlier, the “CamperMate” app will be essential for your road trip. If you want to stay connected during your journey, we recommend getting a prepaid SIM card. These are available from several providers and are very easy to obtain. We had great experiences with Vodafone and Spark. Spark also gives you free access to Wi-Fi hotspots across the country, even in small towns where there’s barely any mobile reception.
New Zealand is known for being quite expensive. You’ll find that certain everyday items, especially dining out, can cost more than in the US. Fast food is reasonably priced, but who wants to eat that every day? Make sure to remember PAK’nSAVE for the best value in groceries. Countdown is also a good option, and New World tends to be the most expensive.
You can save money on activities and attractions in New Zealand too. Websites like Bookme and GrabOne offer discounted tours and restaurant vouchers, similar to Groupon, so it’s worth checking them out for potential vacation deals.
Camper Van Rental Deals
Do you want to experience New Zealand from the road, cruising along the coast and chasing the sun? We love this type of travel for its flexibility. You can stop wherever you want and truly go with the flow.
For many car rental companies, returning vehicles, especially campers and motorhomes, can be expensive. To save money, they offer “one-way” rentals at a low cost. You take the vehicle on a one-way trip, pay as little as $1 per night, and potentially have the road trip of a lifetime.
Often, you’ll only pay for fuel. Some companies even include essentials like kitchenware at no extra charge, but be sure to check. And don’t forget about insurance — some providers include it, while others don’t, so clarify that before booking.
Visit sites like www.apollorv.com for deals across New Zealand. Sometimes, you only pay $1 per night and even get up to $250 for fuel! Check out Thrifty, Jucy, and Imoova for similar offers on campers and motorhomes in New Zealand.
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