New Zealand, Australasia
Lying in the south-west Pacific, New Zealand consists of two main islands – the North and the South. Wherever you travel in this vast land of picture-perfect scenery, we guarantee you will fall in love with the place. With its varied and beautiful landscapes, you’ll find it all – stunning fjords, spectacular glaciers, volcanic plateau, rugged mountains, rolling hills and countryside, subtropical forest and miles and miles of outstanding coastline with fantastic beaches.
The innovative New Zealand cuisine makes the most of the abundant seafood on offer, and of course its world-famous wineries produce the most sublime cool climate vintages. Majestic natural surroundings are complemented by the incredibly friendly locals, who are immensely proud of their countries rich and fascinating history, which reflects a unique mix of Maori and European culture. With its vibrant and culturally diverse cities and astounding beauty, you’ll soon understand why this uncrowded and truly captivating country tops the travel wish list of many.
When to go
With so much to see and do in this breathtakingly beautiful country, there really isn’t a bad time to travel to New Zealand. Summer (December – February) brings with it long balmy evenings and sunny days, so a great time to make the most of all the fantastic outdoor activities on offer and enjoy the amazing beaches. Spring (September – November) and Autumn (March-May) bring milder weather, but are still very pleasant times to visit, and the autumnal colours are spectacular. If you are keen to go skiing, then Winter (June-August) is the best time to go as there should be snow in the South Island, and the mountainous regions of the southern tip of the North Island.
travel essentials
Flights: Air New Zealand operate from London via Los Angeles, whilst partnerships with other airlines also enable you to take a stop over in Asia, in fact why not make it an around the world trip! We also love the concept of the Sky couch for a little more room in Economy.
Time Zone: GMT+12 hours
Health: https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/new-zealand/health
FCO travel advice: https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/new-zealand
where to go in New Zealand
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South Island
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North Island
New Zealand suggested itineraries
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New Zealand North & South
New Zealand is a land of contrasts, best enjoyed October to April to make the most of the diverse out-door experiences on offer. With a backdrop of dramatic mountains, lush forests and deserted beaches. Active couples can enjoy a plethora of adrenalin-inducing activities such as jetboating, swimming with dolphins, kayaking and bungee jumping. For something altogether more relaxing there are some wonderful hiking trails, or perhaps you might to go on one of the whale watching tours. Of course, no visit to New Zealand would be complete without a visit to the wineries for lunch and wine-tasting.
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Round The World Family Sabbatical
This epic family-friendly sabbatical, taking in SE Asia, Australasia and the States, offers up plenty of wildlife encounters, culture, fun activities and the chance to learn new skills interspersed with beach time to re-charge those batteries and top up on Vitamin D!.