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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 Maōri 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 Maōri 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 cornerTravel with us and unlock the infinite possibilities thanks to our exclusive Triploves Highlights.

"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

Currency

New Zealand dollar

Winter avg temp

10°C

Summer avg temp

15°C

Time Zone

GMT +12

Capital City

Wellington

 

Language

English

Good Morning

Good morning

Good evening

Good evening

Image by Annie Spratt
Image by Tim Marshall
Image by Dan Freeman

Cruise the Milford Sound, explore Middle Earth, discover bubbling geysers and dazzling lakes, learn the traditions of the indigenous Maōri 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'.

Image by Rod Long
Image by Jan Kaluza

Our top 3 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.

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.

Learn about the traditions of the Maori

Maōri 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 Maōri people, and indulge in a traditional Hāngī meal cooked under the earth.

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 War Memorial Museum, Auckland

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.

Christchurch Art Gallery Te Puna O Waiwhetu, Christchurch

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.

The Great War Exhibition, Wellington

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.

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.

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.

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.

A camera and a memory card

Small portable charger

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.

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.

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.

Ample bag space

With woollen 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.

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.

What to pack for New Zealand

Image by Alice Donovan Rouse

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.

Road Trip Adventures

Slide into your seat, grip the wheel, start the engine, and hit the open road. From Norway to South Africa, the tundra to the rainforest, there is no limit to what you can reach with four wheels and an adventurous spirit. The road trip is no longer a means to get from point A to point B in your country; it crosses borders into new places, allowing for pure freedom in exciting destinations. Measure your next journey in viewpoints, road signs, and the people you'll meet along the way!

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