When you visit a new country for the first time, it can be daunting. There are so many things to remember, from visa requirements to cultural differences, to knowing what to pack for the weather! New Zealand is no exception. Thankfully, as seasoned New Zealand travellers, we're here to pass on our knowledge of getting to, and around, this beautiful country. So, here are 5 mistakes we often see first-timers make, and how you can avoid them on your trip.
1. Forgetting to Obtain your Visa
We'll start with a big one. It's mandatory for British passport holders to obtain an NZeTA (New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority) visa when travelling to New Zealand. To apply for one, you will need your passport, a credit card, a photo of your face and an email address (you can only apply for one person at a time). An NZeTA request costs NZD $17 on the free app, or NZD $23 if completed online.
You must also pay an IVL, which funds tourism infrastructure and helps protect New Zealand’s natural environment. You pay the IVL at the same time as you request your NZeTA. The IVL costs NZD $35 when you apply online.
Taking a Photo for Your NZeTA
You need to provide a photo of your face that meets the NZeTA requirements. You can either upload a recent photo or use your device's camera to take a photo.
The photo you submit with an online application must be:
between 500 KB and 3 MB
between 900 x 1,200 pixels and 2,250 x 3,000 pixels
a JPG or JPEG file
Most of our travellers find the photo requirements the most difficult part of the application and it's true that they can be fiddly. The easiest way to do it seems to be with a camera attached to your computer. If your photo is rejected, have patience and try again. If you really get stuck, give us a call!
Photo Requirements for a New Zealand Visa
To meet the requirements, photos must...
Be in portrait, not landscape
Be of you, not a photo of a photo or your travel document
Be in colour, showing natural skin tones
Be in focus, not blurry
Not be a selfie
Be taken 1.5 metres from the face
Be taken against a plain, light-coloured — but not white — background with no patterns or objects
The Immigration Department actually suggest you use a professional photographer, but we don’t think you have to go to that length or expense as long as you follow some basic rules:
Face the camera and keep your head straight
Keep your eyes open and mouth closed
Do not smile or frown
Show your face clearly and ensure that long hair is tucked behind your ears
Position yourself in the middle of the photo
What Happens If You Don't Have a Visa?
Fortunately, none of our Silver Fern travellers have been in this position (probably because of our constant nagging to ensure they have one!), but you will not be allowed to board your flight from your departure airport to New Zealand until a visa is obtained.
2. Failing to Declare "Risk" Items
On your arrival declaration, you must declare all risk items in your hand luggage and checked-in bags.
Risk items include:
food
fruit, vegetables, meat, fish, poultry, honey, ingredients used in cooking, and all dairy products
alive or dead plants and seeds
wooden items
live or dead animals
live or dead animal products
traditional/herbal medicines
any shoes, sports or outdoor equipment you’ve used.
If you’re unsure, declare your items when you arrive or put them in the marked amnesty bins. You may be fined or prosecuted if you haven’t declared a risk item.
Once MPI officers have inspected your items, they may return them to you. Some items will not be permitted to enter New Zealand. In other cases, MPI officers will need to treat your items first – you will have to pay for this service.
In recent times, a customs officer has been stationed near the entry point for declaration, and it is worth double-checking with them – this can save you time and effort.
Yes, if you have an apple in your case, you will get fined if you don’t declare it, but it's unlikely you will be stopped for having apple lozenges. Similarly, as long as your walking boots or shoes are clean, there will be no issue; if they are caked in mud, there will be!
We always suggest placing medicines in a plastic pouch with the prescription for customs to view – ideally, they should be in your hand luggage for easy access.
As always, our advice is to pack light – even if you’ve come business class with a baggage allowance of 30 kg upwards, bear in mind you have to carry this!
And for those of you travelling with us on a Silver Fern Small group journey be aware that our maximum case weight is 23kg. If you are travelling on the Coastal Pacific or Tranzalpine trains, your limit is also 23 kg.
In fact, you should be fine with no more than 20 kg.
Life in New Zealand is relaxed, and you’ll find even in the smartest restaurants, few people wear ties, and you certainly won't need a different outfit for every evening! So, we say leave the top hat and tiara behind and dress in layers.
One of our travellers gives the following advice to women travelling to New Zealand,
”I’m very much into blouses and shorts or lightweight pants in New Zealand, a fleece or sweater, and some good rain gear. For going out, I’ve a couple of lightweight summer dresses, which I augment (I think that’s the word!) with a variety of necklaces and brooches.
“Roll up your clothing, don’t fold – it ensures clothes aren’t creased when you take them out of the case.
“Don’t bother buying expensive midge bite lotions – New Zealand has no nasties, other than sand flies, for which the Kiwis have far more effective ointments (I can highly recommend the Te Anau Pharmacy)”.
4. Not Stopping Over En Route
Unless you are lucky enough to travel Business Class or are very restricted by time, we do suggest you include a stopover, at least on your way out to New Zealand.
It’s a long way!
A stopover gives you a chance to explore another place or region and, more importantly, allows you time to get your “walking legs” back. It helps to reduce the jet lag you will experience when you arrive in New Zealand.
Our top stopover is Singapore. In the last decade, Singapore has had something of a makeover - no longer the boring, grey city of old but now a vibrant new destination with a whole range of attractions and activities to delight the visitor, which can be seen in a relatively short space of time (we recommend a ride on the Hop on Hop off Bus to get your bearings)
Marina Bay, Gardens at the Bay and a revamped Chinatown are some of the areas you should visit, along with old favourites such as the Raffles Hotel and Clarke Quay.
We recommend you stay on Clarke Quay since it is very central. It is near all the restaurants that line the quay, the MITI underground service, and the terminus point for the Hop on Hop Off bus.
If you're thinking of spending a couple of days exploring Singapore, here are some hotels to consider:
These hotels range from approximately £550 to £350 for a room for two nights bed and breakfast. Please note these are approximate prices because like the airlines they operate fluid pricing policies.
Alternatively, consider flying west to east and stopping in Los Angeles or San Francisco for a few days.
For more detail on the best way to get to NewZealand, take a look at these options on our website
It’s easy to forget that New Zealand is the same size as the UK, and to see everything in a couple of weeks (often tacked onto a longer tour of Australia) is just not possible.
It’s about being selective and having at least a couple of nights at most locations so you are not constantly packing and unpacking or forever on the move. If you are restricted by time, consider an internal flight or train ride to break up the drive.
With 30 years’ experience planning our travellers’ holidays, there's not a lot we don't know about travelling to New Zealand. We specialise in preparing itineraries that make the most of your time there and ensure you see all the things you want to see. So why not book your New Zealand holiday today?
Or, if you're planning a trip and need some advice, give us a call - we'll be happy to pass on our knowledge!
Of course, eating out is very much a part of a New Zealand Holiday and following extensive research by the Silver Fern team (an arduous task!) we’ve come up with our “Top Ten New Zealand Restaurants with a View”.
Naturally, those venues located near the sea or water have the advantage in this regard (not to mention that delicious New Zealand seafood), so you’ll find the Bay of Islands has bagged two spots on our elite list. However, we’ve also included one winery and a city restaurant where you can eat some classic dishes whilst gazing at the wonderful landscape before you.
Some of these choices are also recommendations from Silver Fern Travellers. So, if you’re planning a trip to New Zealand, take a look at each of the restaurant websites and decide if they are for you.
We would recommend booking via their websites, or when you are at the location, particularly if your stay is on a Friday or Saturday night. Bon Appetit!
Auckland
Soul Bar & Bistro
A favourite with Aucklanders, situated in the vibrant Viaduct Harbour with a wide terrace overlooking the harbour – fresh seafood is a feature.
Located on corner of Hobson Street and Customs Street West, Auckland www.soulbar.co.nz
Bay of Islands
Seaside Cafe & Restaurant
Russell’s favourite waterfront restaurant. Its prime location makes it a perfect spot to drop in for a main meal and a drink while enjoying the views and soundtrack of the ocean. Delightfully intimate and relaxed, soak in the atmosphere at your own pace, take in the stunning views whenever the mood takes you and savour this magical moment in time. Whatever your tastes, you’re sure to find something delicious to treat your taste buds to at Seaside.
Established in 2015, bringing a fresh approach to dining in the Bay of Islands - with the best location and a killer view right at the end of the wharf in Paihia. Charlotte’s Kitchen features a range of exciting dinner and lunch menu options - from larger sharing plates to smaller plates if you are not so hungry. Plus, they have a pizza selection hand-crafted with love.
A waterfront restaurant offering a unique style of charcoal oven cooking - chargrilled meats, seafood and vegetables - with a charred finish and smoky aroma.
Mission Estate is an iconic Hawke’s Bay landmark and one of the region’s premier restaurants. Nestled into the side of the Taradale Hills, Mission Estate is situated only 10 minutes from the city centre but is surrounded by green hills, farmland and vineyards. Offering modern New Zealand food from fresh seasonal produce, Mission Estate also has a longstanding reputation for producing quality award-winning wines as New Zealand’s oldest winery.
We first came across Hooked on Marahau in 2004, more out of necessity than choice; all the eating places in Kaiteriteri, where we were staying, were closed and so we ventured down the coast to Marahau.
Driving along a narrow track towards the sea, things did not look promising – but we turned a corner and there it was, set back from the road and serving the best fish and chips we had enjoyed for a long time.
It’s very much a family affair, run by the Alborn family who like to keep their customers happy with typical Kiwi banter and good humour.
The views across the Tasman Bay from either of the two-beach house style dining rooms are simply stunning and the interiors house an impressive collection of seashells, driftwood, crayfish pots and other vintage nautical objects.
Located at the Scenic Hotel Punakaiki, the Ocean View Restaurant & Bar offers visitors a luxury dining experience in one of New Zealand’s most beautiful locations. Watch the sunset over the Tasman Sea and enjoy the epic views of the Punakaiki Beach and Coastline from your table whilst dining on delicious dishes made from premium New Zealand produce
Kai Whakapai literally translates to good food - and that’s what they’re here for. With exceptional views of Lake Wanaka, and great food to satiate your appetite, they are the locals’ choice for brews, classic Kiwi cuisine, music and general good times.
King of Snake offers the best of Euro-Asian cuisine in a stunning 5-star contemporary setting. Enjoy the panoramic view over Cashel Mall, the Bridge of Remembrance, and the willow-lined banks of the Avon River. Whether you want a full à la carte dining experience, cocktails and nibbles at the bar, or simply a refreshing drink on the deck, King of Snake is sure to delight.
Esplanade Restaurant serves some of the best wood-fired pizzas in Dunedin, the second-largest city on South Island (after Christchurch). Grab a seat by the window for great views of the ocean.
We hope you’ve enjoyed our list of our favourite scenic restaurants in New Zealand! If you’re planning a New Zealand holiday in 2024 or 2025 and you’d like to know more about any of the locations we’ve listed, just give us a call and we’ll be happy to help!
We’ve recently been asked by the Daily Telegraph to choose our favourite activities in New Zealand, and we thought… If you’re planning a New Zealand holiday, why give the Telegraph our insider info when many of our travellers should be able to see our recommendations on our website?
So here you are – our top 25 activities and sights in order of location, travelling north to south through New Zealand.
Auckland
Rangitoto Island
Home to the largest Pohutukawa forest and a vast array of unique plant life, Rangitoto Island is the youngest volcano in the Auckland Volcanic reserve. Emerging from the sea some 600 years ago, it offers a great selection of hiking trails, such as the Rangitoto Island Summit which leads up to a peak where you can enjoy spectacular 360 degree views, taking in the Waitakere Ranges in the west and Hunua Ranges in the east.
With sandy coves, rugged landscapes and plenty of native bush to explore, the Island is a favourite with hikers and nature lovers. Even if you’re not a walker, it’s still a great day trip out of Auckland, and an opportunity to take in some fantastic views back across to the city.
A regular daily ferry service from Auckland Harbour makes it quick and easy to get there in half an hour.
Sky Tower
Head up the Sky Tower for incredible 360-degree views of the city and out towards the Hauraki Maritime Gulf.
You can also book a meal in the restaurant and enjoy the views from your dining table or if you’re an adrenaline junky, take a SkyJump off the tower.
Bay of Islands
Waitangi
The Waitangi Treaty House Grounds is New Zealand’s premier historic site, where in 1840 New Zealand’s most significant document was signed by the British Crown and Maori chiefs - The Treaty of Waitangi.
The Treaty grounds feature the historic treaty house, the magnificently carved meeting house and the world’s largest ceremonial war canoe.
We suggest you take the guided tour of all the major treasures – the guides really bring the treaty to life and introduce you to some of the personalities and events that have shaped New Zealand.
There are also cultural performances scheduled throughout the day and an evening Hangi and Concert.
Hole in the Rock Cruise
Cruise out through the Bay’s pristine islands and along the Cape Brett Peninsula. See the historic Cape Brett lighthouse and majestic Motukōkako - the Hole in the Rock.
There is a good chance of spotting dolphins during this cruise,too. Stop off at Otehei Bay on Urupukapuka Island where you have time to relax, take a walk or have a swim.
Bay of Plenty
Glow Worm Kayaking
A glow worm kayaking tour is a special and unique experience. It’s true that there are other places in New Zealand that you can see glow worms, and plenty of places where you can take to the water and try kayaking, but this we believe, is the only place where you can do both!
Coromandel
Hot Water Beach
Pretty much a must do for anyone visiting the Coromandel, is a trip to Hot Water Beach to find hot water bubbling through the golden sands.
The beach is best visited two hours either side of low-tide. If you arrive at high tide the hot springs will be underwater. Spades can be hired at the local shop and you can join the rest of the “diggers” to create your very own spa pool.
Please note the water can be extremely hot, so you need to be careful where you stand.
En Route to Rotorua
Hobbiton
Lord of the Rings fans will undoubtedly be making a beeline for this picturesque farmland near Matamata during their time in New Zealand, but we think it’s well worth a visit for non-movie buffs too.
Set on a working sheep and beef farm, the 1,250 acres of stunning countryside has been transformed into ‘The Shire’.
Tours take you around the set, exploring Hobbit Holes, hanging out at the Party Tree and the Mill and taking in the scenery, as a guide keeps you entertained with stories and anecdotes about the set and how Hobbiton came to be, as well as sharing local knowledge about the area and the farm itself.
At the end of the tour, and one of the best bits in our opinion, is the visit to the Green Dragon Pub to enjoy a drink in Bilbo Baggins local. Although the pub was burnt to the ground at the end of the third film, it was rebuilt in 2012 along with the 44 other hobbit holes to recreate The Shire.
A place to drink, to meet and to rest your hairy feet!!
Te Puia
Five minutes from central Rotorua, Te Puia is a 60-hectare site that celebrates not only the geothermal wonderland that the area is famous for, but also the incredibly rich heritage and culture that has made Rotorua one of the leading cultural centres in New Zealand.
Here, you’ll also be able to visit The New Zealand Maori Arts & Crafts Institute, which is home to the National School for Wood Carving, Weaving and Stone Carving, and visit a Marae to watch a cultural performance.
Waimangu Thermal Valley
The Waimangu Thermal Valley, located 14 kms south of Rotorua, was created by the eruption of Mt Tarewa on 10 June 1886 which ripped a hole through the landscape, destroyed the Pink and White Terraces (one of the wonders of the world at that time) and buried the village of Te Wairoa with the loss of 150 lives.
Today, you can enjoy an easy walking tour through the valley from the Visitor Centre and café. Stop en route to see the geothermal features which have such evocative names as Echo Crater, Frying Pan Lake and Cathedral Rocks. At the end of this downhill walk you can take a boat cruise on Lake Rotomahana viewing the geothermal sights that can only be seen by boat.
There are a number of different excursions to thermal areas near Rotorua, but we think a visit to Waimangu Thermal Valley is one of the best – guided or self-guided, it’s a walk amidst native bush and a unique ecosystem which you will thoroughly enjoy.
Napier and Hawkes Bay
Art Deco Guide Walk Around Napier
In 1931 a 7.8 on the Richter scale earthquake hit 15km north of Napier. The Earthquake lasted two and a half minutes and destroyed most of the town.
Taking inspiration from the architectural fashion of the time, Napier was reconstructed in a style that reflected the Art Deco, Spanish Mission and Stripped Classical fashion of the 1930’s.
As a result, Napier is now probably the best-preserved Art Deco town in the world, the colourful buildings, bold arches and geometric design bringing the streets to life.
We think the best way to see the town is on a walking tour organised by the Napier Art Deco Trust and guided by volunteers. The tours leave the I-Site at 10am and 2pm from the Art Deco Centre and take around an hour as you meander down Marine Parade, under the iconic Norfolk pine trees and through the streets of the town, taking a look inside some of the buildings as well as admiring them from the outside.
Grape Escape Wine Tour
With over 100 vineyards and 80 wineries, Hawkes Bay is the first stop on the classic New Zealand Wine Trail, and a perfect opportunity to sample some of the country’s finest wines.
The last thing you’ll probably want to be doing is driving when you’re visiting the wineries, so we really recommend a wine tour of the local vineyards to make the most of the region’s wonderful wines.
Tongariro National Park
Tongariro Crossing
Considered to be “the finest one day walk in New Zealand'', this is without doubt a stunning traverse of the volcanic terrain of Mt Tongariro. Among its highlights are steaming vents and hot springs, old lava flows, beautiful water filled explosion craters and stunning views. On clear days you can see Mt Taranaki in the west, Mt Ngauruhoe, Lake Taupo and beyond.
Your first point of call for this walk should be to the excellent visitor centre located just across the road from the Tongariro Chateau. Here you’ll find exhibits of the topography of the park and the history of Maori and European settlement. Most importantly you should consult the Ranger guides regarding the weather conditions for the walk and book your transport.
This is a trek over steep volcanic terrain and a reasonable level of fitness is required.
Wellington
Te Papa
You could spend a whole day exploring all six floors of Te Papa and still not have time to see it all!
Opened in 1998, and with over 1.3 million visitors passing through the doors each year, the museum is New Zealand’s National Museum and a must see while visiting Wellington.
Abel Tasman National Park
Explore Abel Tasman National Park
“I can’t believe Nelsonian’s get to wake up to this amazing paradise every morning” - Sir Ian McKellen (Gandalf)
Abel Tasman National Park is New Zealand’s only coastal national park – and its golden sandy beaches and turquoise waters make it one of the best in the world.
The sheltered bays are popular for cruising, sailing and sea kayaking and on land, the Abel Tasman coastal path follows the coastline through lush native bush, over limestone cliffs and across wide sandy beaches.
You can head out to the park on a day trip (we suggest you leave your vehicle at your accommodation and take the coach out to Kaiteriteri, the small resort from which the boats depart to cruise up the coast). You can get off at different stopping points and enjoy a walk to the next bay, have a picnic or a swim and wait for the boat to pick you up on its return along the coast.
There is also the possibility of kayak trips along the coast, or if you’d prefer, three or five-day guided walks or you can walk independently carrying your own gear into the lodges, which have to be pre-booked with the Department of Conservation.
Kaikoura
Whale Watching
Kaikoura is the best destination in New Zealand if you’ve always dreamt of going whale watching, and with an 95% chance of spotting one of the these majestic mammals on a Whalewatch tour, it’s well worth booking a trip out onto the water during your time here.
As well as whales, a typical Whalewatch tour may encounter fur seals, pods of Dusky dolphins and the endangered wandering Albatross. You might also see migrating humpback whales, blue whales and Hector dolphins – much depends on the time of year you visit and of course, there is an element of luck as to how many sightings there are on your trip.
Just a word of advice – we do advise taking motion sickness tablets prior to this trip if you suffer from sea sickness, it can be a bit choppy!
Christchurch
A Walking Tour of the City
The Otautahi Highlights walk departing from the Clock Tower at the Arts Centre is both a great historical walk, but also a very contemporary informative guide to the devastation and rebuilding of the city following the earthquake of February 2011.
The TranzAlpine Train
The TranzAlpine Train is well regarded as one of the world’s most famous train journeys and travels a magnificent route across the South Island between Christchurch and Greymouth - taking in some of the country’s best scenery en route.
The train leaves Christchurch at 08.15am, heading west over the Canterbury plains before ascending through the breath-taking river valleys and gorges of the Waimakariri River towards the Southern Alps and on to Arthurs Pass. There’s a short stop off before you reboard and continue on through the Otira gorge and the lush alpine rainforests to Greymouth, arriving at 1.05pm.
The journey is a great inclusion as part of a New Zealand tour, especially if you’re on a self-drive holiday as it gives you a chance to take a break from driving and make the most of the scenery. We usually recommend it as part of a South Island itinerary (from Greymouth, you can pick up a rental vehicle and continue down the West Coast and on to the glaciers). However, it’s also possible to take a day trip on the train from Christchurch to either Arthurs Pass or Greymouth, and return to Christchurch in the afternoon.
All the carriages have central heating and air conditioning, and provide exceptional views from panoramic and side windows. Each saloon carriage includes a GPS triggered commentary at your seat via headphones plus information displays and videos about the history and features of each area you travel through. We thoroughly recommend this trip!
Fox and Franz Josef Glaciers
One of the most iconic West Coast features, the Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers are unique in that they provide some of the most accessible Glaciers in the world.– there aren’t very many glaciers that you are able to walk to from the local town!
Many travellers choose to take a guided tour to really experience the glacier environment in all its glory and either walk, take a scenic helicopter flight, or elect to take a Heli-hike and combine the two.
Heli-hikes are a spectacular way to get right up on the glaciers and explore the areas that you can’t access on foot, though it’s worth bearing in mind that flights can be cancelled if the weather doesn’t cooperate.
Wanaka and Mount Aspiring National Park
Wanaka is one of our favourite New Zealand towns, located in the beautiful scenic area of Mount Aspiring National Park with a wide variety of walks for all abilities beside the lake and into the mountains
Rocky Mountain Diamond Lake Trail Walk
Described as the best half day walk in New Zealand (and we wouldn’t argue with the title) this is a relatively easy walk to a viewing platform above Diamond Lake. From the Diamond Lake viewing platform you can take the upper-level circuit that winds its way to the top of Rocky Mountain, and you have the option of the east or west track routes up. To make the most of the stunning views of Lake Wanaka below you, we suggest taking the west track up and returning on the east track.
Queenstown
Adrenaline Activities
Queenstown is the home of the original Bungy Jump and you can book a trip out to the Bungy Jumping centre at the Kawarau Bridge. Here, you can indulge in a whole number of different experiences including tandem bungy Jumps and zip line rides. Night-time bungy jumping and ledge swings can also be “enjoyed” from the ledge site near the top of the Skyline Gondola.
Other activities on offer include parapenting, zip lining and white-water rafting.
TSS Earnslaw
If such thrills and spills are not really your thing, then take a cruise across Lake Wakatipu on the 110 year old steamship, the TSS Earnslaw. This is a wonderful way to see the scenic beauty of the area at a slower pace. The cruise takes ninety minutes and departs at 10am in the morning and 2pm in the afternoon.
You can visit the engine room and see its giant steam engines at work, view the collection of historical photos in the mini museum, check out the bridge or even join a sing-along with the pianist. Or if you’d prefer, kick back and enjoy a wine or beer or some café-style food at the on-board Promenade Café and Bar.
You can choose to do a cruise, combined with a visit to Walter Peak High Country Farm for a guided farm tour, horse trek, barbecue lunch or evening dining. The farm tour includes morning or afternoon tea and time with the farmer rounding up sheep from the hill paddocks and watching a sheep shearing demonstration. This trip lasts 3 and half hours, departing at the same time from Queenstown as the standard cruises.
Milford Sound
An absolute must-see for most travellers – one of the world’s greatest Sounds.
Our suggestion would be to take the Nature Cruise which, at two and a half hours, is about an hour longer than the scenic cruise. This has the added advantage of having a specialist nature guide on board to point out all the natural features - from waterfalls to sheer rock faces and help with wildlife spotting of dolphins, seals and, when in season, the rare Fiordland crested penguins.
There are several different ways of getting to Milford Sound – you can either take the coach from Queenstown or Te Anau, or at considerable extra cost, you can combine the coach journey with a flight or fly in both ways.
If you are travelling from Queenstown, we don’t advise a return coach journey since it makes for a very long day; better to overnight in Te Anau or to enjoy an overnight cruise.
Neither do we advocate driving to Milford – the drive can be arduous at times and you’ll miss some of the stunning scenery you can view through the panoramic coach windows.
Doubtful Sound
A truly memorable experience of your time in New Zealand would be an overnight cruise on the magnificent Doubtful Sound.
Cruise the fiord, weaving through hidden coves and mystical waterways. Then, as evening draws near, the anchor is dropped at a sheltered mooring enabling you to explore the shoreline by kayak or small boat with one of the on-board nature guides. Afterwards you can enjoy an excellent three course meal – we’re always amazed by the quality – before you bed down for the night in your twin-bedded cabin with en suite facilities.
The next day, the skipper will stop the motors and you’ll enjoy the sounds of silence, only broken by the birdsong and rushing waters of waterfalls in this truly primeval landscape.
Mount Cook
Hooker Valley Day Walk
You only have to walk a hundred yards or so along the Hooker Valley trail that leads directly from the Hermitage hotel, before you leave most of the crowds behind to enjoy the magnificent scenery ahead of you.
Take water and a day pack with sunscreen and snacks with you and follow the well graded path that winds through the bush to the campsite. Cross open tussock that leads to the memorial for climbers and guides lost on Mount Cook – you’ve then three sturdy swing bridges to cross as you make your way to the glacial lake for a close view of the mighty mountain.
The full walk takes four hours (you can reduce time and mileage by starting from the campsite car park rather than the village) but don’t feel you have to walk all the way to the lake – the views on a clear day are stunning in themselves – you can just turn back and retrace your steps when you’re ready and take refreshments in the Hermitage café.
Hanmer Springs
After all that activity as you travel across New Zealand, you probably need a touch of rest and relaxation, we recommend taking a day trip from Christchurch to Hanmer Springs.
Here you can indulge in a huge array of spa treatments, or simply relax and soak up the scenery in one of the outdoor natural thermal pools. It’s a great place to unwind and take some time out!
We hope you’ve enjoyed exploring our top 25 bucket list New Zealand destinations! If you’re planning a New Zealand holiday in 2024 or 2025 and you’d like to know more about any of the activities or sights we’ve listed, just give us a call and we’ll be happy to help!
Take the stress out of planning – we do it all for you!
Instead of spending hours scouring the internet for the best accommodation, transportation, and must-see attractions, you can sit back, relax, and leave the intricate details of planning your New Zealand Holiday to the experts.
From arranging comfortable accommodation to organising seamless transportation between destinations, we take the guesswork out of your travel planning, allowing you to focus on immersing yourself in New Zealand’s awe-inspiring landscapes and captivating experiences.
If you’d like to stay the night before your tour commences, we are able to arrange accommodation in your tour hotel to save you changing rooms and we can organise your transfer from the airport, too.
At the end of your holiday extra nights can also be added to your tour itinerary. More extensive additional arrangements are also possible. Flights too!
As an ATOL bonded tour operator, we can book your flights with any of the major airlines.
Just let us know which travel route you would like to fly, whether you want to include a stopover destination and in which class - Business, Premium Economy or Economy - and we’ll provide you with a quote. Be aware flight prices change daily (usually upwards!)
In most cases you will not have to pay for your flights until your balance is due, but some airline fares do require payment up front.
Tours are Simple to Budget for in Advance
One of the most common concerns when planning travel is managing a budget.
When you join a small group tour with Pure Discoveries, you gain the advantage of transparent and upfront pricing. Our tour packages are designed to include essential elements such as accommodation, transportation, activities, and some meals, providing you with a comprehensive understanding of the costs involved right from the start. An all inclusive experience for want of a better term.
Unlike planning a trip on your own, where unexpected expenses can easily rise, a small group tour allows you to have a clear picture of your expenses in advance. This means you can plan your budget more effectively, allocate funds for additional experiences or personal indulgences, and have peace of mind knowing that the major expenses are taken care of.
Enjoy a Personalised Service
Small tour sizes allow Pure Discoveries to provide a personalised experience, from the moment you first get in touch, to the moment you arrive home afterwards. With fewer travellers to attend to, our team can devote more time and attention to everyone, ensuring that your questions are answered, your needs are met and your expectations are always exceeded.
We take pride in our ability to create a warm and welcoming atmosphere where you feel like a valued member of the group, forging connections and friendships that can last a lifetime.
Great Leaders, Expert Guides
New Zealanders are rightly proud of their country and aware that visitors have travelled a long way. Kiwis are passionate about showing visitors the best of New Zealand, so not only are our hand-picked leaders’ safe drivers in all conditions, but they are also happy personalities, full of knowledge and enthusiasm, insights and practical advice.
At some points we meet up with a local guide to add his or her expertise to enhance your experience. These include Kiwis who are wildlife, eco, geothermal or Maori specialists with whom you can engage on a personal level.
Reducing the Environmental Impact of Your Travel
In an era where sustainable and responsible travel is increasingly important, choosing a small group tour around New Zealand can significantly reduce the environmental impact of your journey. We are committed to promoting eco-conscious travel practices and minimising our carbon footprint.
By joining a small group tour, you contribute to the preservation and conservation of New Zealand’s natural beauty.
Here’s how:
Reduced Carbon Emissions: Travelling in groups means fewer vehicles on the road, resulting in reduced carbon emissions.
Support for Local Communities: Small group tours provide opportunities for meaningful interactions with local communities and businesses. We strive to connect you with authentic experiences that directly benefit the local economy and foster cultural exchange, helping to preserve the rich heritage of New Zealand.
Conservation and Preservation: As a Department of Conservation approved tour company, our tours often include visits to protected areas, national parks and conservation projects. Through these experiences, we aim to raise awareness about environmental issues and contribute to the preservation of New Zealand’s diverse ecosystems for future generations to enjoy.
By choosing a small group tour with Pure Discoveries, you can embark on a journey that is not only immersive and unforgettable but also environmentally responsible.
Immersion in Local Life, Including Restaurants and Activities That Can’t Cater to Large Groups
When you’re exploring a new country, one of the most rewarding experiences is immersing yourself in the local culture and lifestyle. Small group tours around New Zealand offer a unique advantage in this regard, allowing you to delve deep into the heart of the destination through authentic experiences that larger groups simply can’t access.
Our small group tours allow you to engage with the people, landscapes and flavours that make New Zealand truly special.
One aspect where the advantages of a small group tour truly shine is dining. New Zealand is renowned for its culinary delights, from fresh seafood and farm-to-table cuisine to award-winning wines.
By travelling in a small group, you can visit local eateries and stay at boutique accommodation that may not be able to accommodate larger groups. This means you can experience the full warmth of Kiwi hospitality, and discover hidden gems known only to the locals.
Small group tours grant you access to unique activities and attractions that are off the beaten path.
See More on Your Travels, With Less Waiting Around
When you embark on a journey to New Zealand, you want to make the most of your time there and see as much as possible. One significant advantage of choosing a small group tour is the ability to see more and spend less time waiting around for large groups to catch up.
Our Pure Discoveries itineraries optimise your time, ensuring you cover a wide range of destinations and attractions without feeling rushed.
With fewer people in the group, you’ll have better chances of capturing stunning photographs without unwanted distractions or long waits. Whether it’s capturing the grandeur of Milford Sound, the majesty of Mount Cook, or the vibrant colours of the Hobbiton Movie Set, you can snap those perfect shots and create lasting memories of your New Zealand adventure.
Faster Check-In and Check-Out Times: Small groups mean faster check-in and check-out times, so you spend less time waiting in a hotel lobby, and more time exploring each new destination.
Access to Off-the-Beaten-Path Gems: Small group tours have the advantage of accessing hidden gems and lesser-known attractions that are often inaccessible to larger groups or individual travellers.
Explore Off the Beaten Track
With no more than 16 travellers, we can go places and see things that are simply not practical for large tour groups. So while we include all the “must-see sights” in our itineraries we also add smaller-scale adventures that only a small group can experience.
Good Company is Easy to Find
Travelling with a small group means experiencing the wonders of New Zealand alongside fellow adventurers who are just as excited and enthusiastic about the journey as you are.
From marvelling at breath-taking landscapes to immersing in local culture, every moment becomes more meaningful when shared with others who appreciate the same wonders.
In a Small Group it is easy to find common ground with fellow travellers and enjoy a variety of dinner table conversations. We dispense with “coach tour” admin, like asking you to wear a name badge and we think good manners and good humour are more important than strict timekeeping. Discovering New Zealand in this way offers potential for serendipitous surprises and a lot of fun.
The connections forged during our small group tours sometimes extend far beyond the duration of the trip, give you the chance to connect with like-minded individuals and expand your network of global friends.
Guaranteed Departures
All our tour dates are guaranteed departures, whether we have half a dozen travellers or a full complement of passengers, so you can make your international travel plans accordingly, without concerns as to whether your holiday will go ahead.
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Planning your 2024/2025 New Zealand holiday and keen to learn more about our small group journeys or have a question about one of our itineraries? Just give us a call and one of our New Zealand experts will be happy to help.
As we turn our attention to summer holidays in the Northern Hemisphere, where many of you have either been or are about to go on that well-earned break, we thought you’d be interested to know where our Southern Hemisphere cousins choose to holiday during the Pacific summer.
The Pacific summer takes place during the months of January and February, corresponding to our months of July and August. Although as in Europe, many New Zealanders typically opt to take their summer holiday earlier in December or later in March.
Unlike many British or European seaside destinations, Kiwi resorts tend not to be too commercialised, with few shops or attractions in beach areas. So you won’t find donkey rides, “kiss me quick” hats or amusement arcades – the staple features of many British holiday locations.
You’re more likely to find just a surf shop and a small “dairy” selling general items from fruit, drinks and food basics. All other supplies you’ll need to bring with you to your holiday home – or “bach” as it is called in New Zealand.
In recent years, many New Zealanders have opted to enjoy the delights of their own country rather than travel abroad.
New Zealand was closed to international travel for longer than most countries during the pandemic, so for Kiwis domestic holidays were the only choice available and “staycations” have remained very popular.
Aerial view of Cathedral Cove in Coromandel Peninsula.
Just a forty-minute ferry ride away from the central city terminal in Auckland, Waiheke is the second largest island in what is known as the Hauraki Maritime gulf - an area that encompasses all the islands offshore from Auckland.
This easy accessibility coupled with the wonderful beaches to be found on the island shores, means that the population almost doubles during the summer season as Aucklanders make for their summer homes or apartments.
Waiheke has also recently become “The Island of Wine” with wineries and vineyards a key feature of the landscape, with wine tours and food & drink festivals becoming a part of an island holiday.
Waiheke Island Vineyard. Image credit: Julian Apse
The Bay of Islands
Whereas Northern Europeans head south for their vacations in the sun, the opposite is true of New Zealanders. Kiwi’s will typically head for the northern beaches and bays of Northland for their holidays. Many activities are centred around the small town of Paihia, where there are excursions to the Outer Islands and beaches.
The Tutukaka Coast along the western coastline offers great opportunities for diving, swimming, snorkelling and kayaking and for visitors heading to the far north, there is 90-mile beach (not exactly 90 miles, but a pretty long beach all the same!) where coach operators drive across the sands and sand boarding is a popular activity.
The Coromandel
This small peninsula, a two-hour drive from Auckland, is dotted with fine beaches, lagoons and small towns. Most Kiwi’s head to the popular locations of Tairau and Whitianga, where not only is there easy access to the beach but both places have fine restaurants, bars and cafes as well an array of shops and artists studios to delight visitors.
Most activities take place in or on the water - from jet boating, parasailing and windsurfing to yachting, surfing and snorkelling.
Further south, holiday makers are also well catered for in the Bay of Plenty region, with Mount Maunganui being the main destination.
Located on the southern tip of North Island, Wellington is a beautiful place to visit in itself during the summer months. But, residents of the capital have the envious choice of easily catching a flight to Auckland to delight in a holiday in those northern locations or taking a ferry across the Cook Strait to enjoy the attractions on South Island.
Bay of Islands.
South Islanders
Kiwi's living on the South Island (or the “Mainland”, as they like to call it) will often fly from Christchurch or Dunedin to the northern locations when looking for a more chilled holiday, or head south for a more high-octane getaway that usually involves a base in either Wanaka or Queenstown.
Here, they can participate in the many adventurous pursuits on offer or head further south to explore the beautiful World Heritage Park of Fiordland. Three or six-day hikes on the Milford track or Routeburn track are very popular, as are cruises on the Milford and Doubtful Sounds.
Vacations with an “eco” slant, such as those advertised on Stewart Island in the far south provide New Zealanders with the opportunity to view the bird of their National emblem, the Kiwi – which can be encountered during nocturnal tours of some of the island’s habitat’s.
Parachuting in Wanaka.
International Travel
Australia
For Kiwis who forsake domestic travel for the glamour and cultural influences of a foreign holiday, for most this means a trip to their nearest neighbour, Australia. With the Gold Coast, Brisbane and the reef and rainforest gateway towns of Cairns and Port Douglas being favourites.
It is only a three-hour flight across the Tasman to Brisbane and Kiwi travel operators offer attractive year-round packages to the city and its beach-side hotels.
Fiji
Another holiday destination, just three hours away is Fiji, which in recent years has also become a popular choice for weddings on the beach or honeymoons. Most Kiwi’s head for a stay on one of the Mamanuca Islands, which are only an hour's ferry ride from the main port of Denerau.
There is usually a wide range of entertainment as well as cultural shows provided by these island resorts, as well as the near certainty of fine weather for sunbathing, snorkelling and swimming.
The Cook Islands
The Cook Islands are a more laid-back, less commercial holiday choice for Kiwi’s who just want to relax in the sun and enjoy the island’s beautiful turquoise warm reef waters.
Here, it is most likely they’ll stay in one of the island’s small hotels and travel around by local bus. There are no large resorts on the Cook Islands, no brand names and plenty of excellent restaurants and cafes, so it’s the perfect place to truly get away from it all.
Couple snorkelling near coral in Fiji.
Of course, these holiday destinations are very much “the general”. As they live so far from other land masses, Kiwi’s have to be adventurous in their travels if they wish to visit other countries during their holidays.
Asia and European destinations are also on their list during the longer summer holidays, with backpackers and other Kiwi travellers planning these longer trips months in advance - in much the same way we would consider a long haul trip to New Zealand!
Fancy experiencing a Pacific summer for yourself? Just get in touch to see how we can help you plan a New Zealand holiday that any Kiwi would be proud of!
In fact, personal needs often play a big part in the direction people choose to travel through New Zealand.
Some travellers may ask for a starting point or wish to include a destination in their trip to meet friends or family there. Requests like these usually determine the direction of travel.
Some of our travellers meeting up with friends.
Why travel from South to North?
Weather
If there are no personal reasons to consider, the determining factor is often the weather conditions - particularly in the months approaching winter.
During these months (late May, June and early July) you can certainly feel the difference between the alpine South and the warmer climes of the North. For this reason, many travellers prefer to start in cooler weather and end their trip in higher temperatures.
Flights
Some international flights only depart from Auckland and not from the southern international airports of Christchurch and Queenstown. Depending on connection times, it’s often more convenient to conclude your holiday in Auckland.
Essentially, this means you will only need to move from one part of the building to the other, rather than hauling your luggage all the way to another airport.
Cost
It is true that some rental car companies scale their charges in favour of a journey starting in the South because they want their vehicles returned to an Auckland depot where there is more demand for rental cars.
However, our preferred car rental company, Budget/Avis, offers favourable rates so the difference is nominal, but this really shouldn’t be a factor in your decision-making.
A birds-eye view of Auckland, which is the main entry point for many airlines.
Why travel from North to South?
Auckland is the Main Air Entry Point into New Zealand
Most international airlines will have Auckland as their main point of entry. So if you wish to start your journey through New Zealand in another part of the country you will have to transfer to the domestic terminal then await your flight connection.
The transfer to the domestic terminal is an easy 10-minute walk but after a long 15 or 24-hour flight, the idea of a connecting flight is often too much hassle.
Understanding New Zealand
Most Silver Fern travellers will have done some background reading on the country and its origins, but if not, we think if you start in the north (in the Bay of Islands more specifically), you’re really starting at the beginnings of modern day New Zealand.
Here, you can visit Waitangi where the Treaty between representatives of the British Crown and Maori chiefs was signed in 1840. This document has guided the development of the country and is the basis for New Zealand’s constitution as we know it today.
The excellent visitor centre at Waitangi features presentations and displays that tell the country’s story and give visitors a background to the current issues debated today.
The visitor centre at Waitangi Treaty Grounds, which opened in 2016.
A Succession of Wow’s!
Think of your travels through New Zealand as a three act play. The climax comes towards the end of Act III, and the preface is Acts I and II.
Whilst the North Island has some outstanding natural features, the South contains no less than 10 National Parks, one of the best coastlines in the world, two glaciers (Franz Josef and Fox), and two magnificent sounds. It even has the highest mountain in New Zealand, the majestic Aoraki/Mount Cook.
It makes sense to see these sights in Act III of your trip to make sure you end on a stunning and dramatic climax.
An Easy Final Drive
You’ll be amazed by the sights you see and the experiences you enjoy as you travel around New Zealand, but you’ll probably be a little travel weary too. So what better way to conclude your journey with an easy drive across the Canterbury plains rather than plunging headlong into the Auckland traffic?
The incredible sights of the Canterbury Plains.
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Whichever route you choose to take on your New Zealand holiday, you can be sure our teams both in the UK and New Zealand will be there to support you all the way. If you have more questions about which direction to travel around New Zealand, just get in touch!
As we often say, Nelson is one of our favourite destinations on South Island. Not only because it’s the city with the highest average hours of sunshine (although that helps!), but also because of its location on the eastern shores of Tasman Bay.
It’s surrounded by mountains that lead into the three National Parks: Abel Tasman, Nelson Lakes and Kahurangi, which offer world-class trails through pristine ancient forests and around the golden bays of the Pacific.
It also includes Mt Owen, with rockscapes that are so fantastic it stands to reason they were featured in Peter Jackson’s Lord of the Rings.
Nelson also has a reputation as a creative arts centre, with galleries, workshops, festivals and many cultural events very much part of the local scene. It’s worth checking out the city’s events calendar to see if you’ll be in town when there’s a display, studio opening or music event that you’d like to take in.
As the oldest city on South Island and the second-oldest settled city in New Zealand, Nelson certainly has an interesting history, which very much shapes the town that places itself at “The Centre of New Zealand” in more ways than one.
What’s in a Name?
As Wellington had been named in honour of Britain's most famous soldier, the New Zealand Company felt it was fitting to call the settlement across the strait by the name of her most famous sailor - Vice-Admiral, Viscount Nelson.
The city has many names that are a nod to the mother country and to Nelson’s sea battles – including Albion Square and Britannia Heights. The main street in Nelson is Trafalgar Street, after the 1805 battle in which Nelson died.
A Brief History of Nelson
Early Settlement
The Maori people settled in the Nelson region approximately 700 years ago and developed the land around the Waimea Plains. From the 1600’s, the area was controlled by the Ngati Tumatakori tribe through until the early 1800’s when they were attacked by northern tribes and virtually wiped out.
The New Zealand Company
The company, based in London, planned a settlement of Nelson and intended to buy 200,000 acres from the Maori to divide it into lots and sell off to settlers. However, by September 1841 only about one third of the lots had sold. Despite this, the colony pushed ahead.
Three ships, the Arrow, Whitby, and Will Watch, sailed from London under the command of Captain Arthur Wakefield with settlers for the new colony. After some negotiation with the Crown’s governor, William Hobson, they were given permission to explore the North western area of South Island.
The company then purchased an ill- defined area of land from the Maori people to include Nelson, Motueka, Riwaka and Whakapuaka (which became a source of conflict later) and soon ships began arriving with settlers to set up home in wooden houses, tents and sheds.
The problem for the settlers was a shortage of arable land. Wakefield and his entourage tried to make out that the original land sale also included the Wairau valley, leading to the first serious clash of arms between the Maori and British settlers since the 1840 Treaty of Waitangi.
The settlers attempted to arrest the chiefs, Te Ruaparaha and Te Rangihaeata and when fighting broke out, a shot was fired which killed Te Rangihaeta’s wife and Te Ruaparaha’s daughter. In revenge the Maori killed 22 of the settlers, including Wakefield, in what has since been called the Wairau Affray.
The new governor of New Zealand, Robert Fitzroy, ruled that the land was legally that of the Maori people – a wise adjudication since the Maori outnumbered the settlers by 900 to one.
A later sale enabled the settlers to establish themselves on this land and Nelson was proclaimed a city under proclamation letters by Queen Victoria in 1858.
Trafalgar Street at dusk
Development
A Provincial government was in place by 1860 to oversee the development of the town, where establishment of a port was seen as key to the area’s future prosperity. A new wharf was completed in 1876 which remained in place until the 1950’s. The port was to dominate the economy. Steamers provided regular services to West Coast ports, Wellington and the small ports of Tasman and Golden Bays - Tarakohe, Takaka, Collingwood, Pakawau, Puponga and Motueka.
During the goldrush of the 1870’s on the West Coast, Nelson was the main administration centre for the export of the gold. It also became the main region in New Zealand for the growing of fruit, vegetables and hops. Production continued well into the twentieth century and between the 1950s and the late 1970s, the volume of fruit exported through Nelson’s port rose from around 500,000 cases to more than two million cases.
What’s Nelson like today?
The city today is a vibrant hub of around 60,000 residents with an economy built around the 'big five' industries: seafood, horticulture, forestry, farming and tourism. Port Nelson is the biggest fishing port in Australasia. There are also a range of growing industries, including art and craft, aviation, engineering technology, and information technology.
5 Things We Recommend You Do in Nelson
Take an Easy Walk Along the Matai River
This is perfect for a morning or afternoon stroll. The path is clearly marked by tall laminated signs to the Hardy Street footbridge and the Botanical Reserve. This was the site of the first ever Rugby game in New Zealand!
After your walk (or before it!) head to the River Kitchen. Relax on the terrace in the sun or find a cosy chair inside. Enjoy delicious food, craft beers, wines from around New Zealand, and locally roasted coffee.
Enjoy the Views From the Top of the Centre of New Zealand Walkway
A slight detour off the Matai River walkway at the sign near the poplar trees, in the north eastern corner of the reserve, offers a track walk up Botanical Hill to the Centre of New Zealand. It’s not the exact centre, but surveyors in the 1870’s used it as a centre point.
At the summit, enjoy the stunning views over Nelson from seats around the viewing platform. Return to the base of the hill via the main track or opt to head along the hillside to Walters Bluff. A good option is to take swimwear, walk down the eastern side of the hill to Branford Park, and have a swim at Black Hole.
Enjoying the view from the summit of Centre of New Zealand Walk
Follow the Nelson Art Trail
You can follow the art trail using the online map, or it can be found on a leaflet published by the Nelson Tourist Board and is available from the Information site in town.
The trail takes you to galleries and workshops where local artists showcase their work - from ceramics and paintings to glass blowing, wood turning, jewellery and more. There are also two art galleries – the large Suter Art Gallery with its excellent café and the Red Art Gallery.
Gentle Pedal the Great Taste Trail
This popular cycle trail winds its way past vineyards, stunning scenery and a varied range of arts, crafts and culinary attractions.
The purpose-built cycle paths ensure that nearly the whole trip stays under Grade 2 (easy), making it perfectly suited for those looking for a leisurely ride they can enjoy, not endure. There’s a whole host of hire spots and access points, so day rides are an easily achievable option, but we highly recommend giving the whole 174km loop a go - taking in Nelson, Richmond and Wakefield.
This covers rural, urban and waterside terrain, getting a great taste of all that the region has to offer, from delicious food, to quirky guesthouses and quiet, natural grace.
Bikes can be rented from Kiwi Journeys or the Gentle Cycling Company.
One of the many arts and crafts fairs in Nelson
Explore Abel Tasman National Park
It would be a tragedy to visit Nelson and not check out at least one of the national parks. Abel Tasman National Park encompasses some of the most beautiful coastline to be found in the world and Nelson is the gateway to this spectacular area.
The drive to Kaiteriteri (the starting point) takes around an hour, but it may be better to take a coach because parking in the small settlement can sometimes be difficult.
On the sands are various booths of the boat operators who ply the coast, dropping off visitors for short walks, day walks or kayaking experiences. The Guided Track walk is operated by the Wilson family and walkers or kayakers stay at two excellent accommodations, Homestead House and Torrent Bay Lodge, with all meals included.
The three or five day walk is guided by professional guides who have a huge passion for the area, which definitely shows as they impart their knowledge with sensitivity and humour.
Also, near Nelson are two other national parks, Kahurangi and Nelson Lakes - both of which offer further opportunities for scenic walks of different lengths. The park visitor centres can provide maps of both areas.
Happy hikers embarking on a walk through Abel Tasman National Park
Accommodation in Nelson
The main hotels in Nelson are The Heritage Rutherford Hotel and the Trailways Inn, both are well situated for the town and offer 3-4-star facilities with restaurants. If you really want to embrace the outdoors and the beauty of the region, then the luxurious Kimi Ora Eco Spa Resort is the perfect place to relax and unwind after a long day exploring.
The Sails complex offers excellent, modern self-contained accommodation and there are numerous bed and breakfast establishments including Warwick House and Sussex House.
Where to Eat in Nelson
There’s a great range of places to choose from!
Of which our suggestions would be Arden Bar & Kitchen and Harry’s Hawker House as top choices, but if you want to really spice up your menu there is also Little India and The Indian Café.
If you’re keen to take in the sights and sounds of Nelson as part of your New Zealand holiday, it’s important to plan a few days for your visit so you can really make the most of it - we recommend two days as a minimum, to fully appreciate everything the city has to offer.
We’ve only covered a small handful of the key attractions here, but there are plenty more to be found both within the city and in the surrounding areas. If you’d like to learn more about Nelson and discuss what to do while you’re there, do get in touch.
To round off our coverage of the best hotels in New Zealand, this blog post looks at those hotels which, broadly speaking, sit to the south of the Tranz Alpine train line - from Greymouth to Christchurch through the Southern Alps.
As in our previous posts that cover the best hotels at the top of South Island and the best North Island hotels, our selection of hotels in lower South Island are not based on algorithms or the amount a hotel may pay to third party sites to be at the top of their lists.
We’ve selected hotels that we’ve personally stayed at and worked with over the past thirty years, all of which have scored consistently high with our travellers as they’ve made their journey through the country’s key sites and destinations.
The Best Hotels in Hokitika
Oftentimes, travellers are encouraged to go down the West Coast of South Island. If you do choose to do this, we think it’s more than worth stopping in Hokitika for a while. It’s a town that is a little more “local“ in feel than some of the more “touristy” hot spots on the South Island - giving you a real feel for what New Zealand life is really like.
There are several local artists based in the town and you can visit their studios and workshops to see glass blowing, wood carving, jade carving and sculpture designs.
Hokitika, 150 years ago was a very different place than the town you will find today since this was the main centre of the West Coast gold rush, which was depicted in the recent BBC adaptation, The Luminaries. It’s worth calling into the small museum to view the fascinating photographs of the men and their mine workings dotted across the hillsides as they panned for their precious metal.
There is really only one hotel to consider in Hokitika and that’s the Beachfront Hotel. As the name suggests, it is located right on the beach and the hotel’s Ocean Restaurant is elevated above the water, so you can enjoy a delicious fine dining experience while watching the waves break on the beach.
A sunset over the sea from the deck at Beachfront Hotel.
The Best Hotels in Franz Josef Glacier
Around a 40-minute drive down the coast from Hokitika, you’ll arrive at the first of the glacier townships. These small villages are primarily there to support the tourist industry that has evolved and there are a number of options available that enable visitors to walk to, walk on and fly around the glaciers and Mount Cook.
The Scenic Franz Josef Hotel is the largest hotel in the area and has two distinct wings,each having its own charm and atmosphere, and making the most of the superb views, tranquil location and surrounding native bush.
This is a 5-star rated hotel with four separate wings, all linked by a covered walkway. The guest rooms are luxurious and spacious with excellent amenities, including high speed internet access, plush wool and down duvets and even a personal pillow menu!
Breakfast, lunch and dinner can be enjoyed in ‘The Canopy’ restaurant, where an open fire, and subtle rainforest theming adds to the warmth and ambience of the space.
Next would be Westwood Lodge, OK this is more of a bed & breakfast than a hotel, but it would be a massive oversight for us to omit it, it certainly deserves to be considered the “best of” because it is such a stunning property in a fabulous location.
The lodge is located right in the forest of World Heritage Westland National Park, with spectacular views of Franz Josef Glacier. The accommodation includes guest rooms with beautiful garden views, a breakfast restaurant with a range of dining options and an expansive lounge to relax in after a busy day. Natural wood is a feature of the architecture throughout this accommodation.
Fully immerse yourself in nature at the Te Waonui Forest Retreat.
The Best Hotels in Fox Glacier
Like its counterpart, accommodation in Fox is primarily there to serve the tourist trade around the glaciers. And here we’d pick out Te Weheka Distinction Hotel.
The hotel is well located for Fox Glacier village and the beautiful Lake Matheson, which are just across the road and about a mile down the track. With fantastic views of the whole Mount Cook panorama reflected in the lake’s deep waters.
Each room is beautifully put together with a living area and balcony, so you can fully immerse yourself in your surroundings from the comfort of your room. If you’d prefer, you can also curl up with a good book and a glass of wine in front of an open fire in the cosy lounge area (which has its own library!), looking out over the Cook River Valley
The Best Hotels in Wanaka
Over the Haast Pass and you’re into the completely different environment of Mount Aspiring National Park, with its scenic range of lakes and mountains.
As Wanaka’s only hotel located directly on the shores of Lake Wanaka, Edgewater Resort is a special place to stay. Having recently undergone full refurbishment, the hotel offers fabulous accommodation and excellent facilities, making it a lovely place to base yourself to explore Wanaka and the surrounding area.
Its location ensures you can relax by the calming shores of the lake, but it takes just fifteen minutes to walk into Wanaka township, so the location is hard to beat.
The cosy lounge cafe that overlooks Lake Wanaka at Edgewater Resort.
The Best Hotels in Queenstown
The town’s moniker as the Adventure Capital of New Zealand means there’s plenty of accommodation available in Queenstown - catering for all the adventure junkies as well as those who just wish to enjoy the scenic delights of the area.
When looking for the best hotels in Queenstown, we recommend two smaller properties which are more homely and personal than the rather corporate offerings of the larger hotels.
First, Chalet Queenstown. This is a small boutique hotel just a ten minute walk through the Queenstown Gardens to the centre of town.
The property has 7 well-appointed guest rooms which have a balcony with either lake or mountain views and triple sheeted beds with feather duvets for maximum comfort. There’s a guest lounge and garden patio to relax in and put your feet up after the day’s activities and there’s a laundry service if you need it, too!
Next is Brown’s Boutique Hotel. Perfectly located in a quiet street in the heart of Queenstown, this is a charming, European-inspired boutique hotel. Each room has a balcony which offers stunning views to the lake and mountains. There is also a small patio garden area often used for barbecues in the summer months.
A room with a view at Brown's Boutique Hotel in Queenstown.
The Best Hotels in Te Anau
Travelling alongside Lake Wakatipu and under the shadow of the Remarkable mountains, a three hour drive will take you to the small town of Te Anau, the gateway to Fiordland World Heritage Park.
There are a range of self-contained apartments in the town, but really only two hotels, both under the Distinction brand. Our favourite, because it sits right on the lake, is The 4-star rated Distinction Te Anau hotel and villas. It has a pool, sauna and spa and is surrounded by gardens which look out to the Fiordland mountain ranges.
For those visitors contemplating one of the track walks, this is a good base because most of the operators begin their briefing at the hotel.
Across Southern Otago and you’re on the east coast and Dunedin, where we favour the recently refurbished Fable Dunedin.
Head north and you’re into the mountains of Aoraki/Mount Cook. There isn’t much choice when it comes to hotels here, and the only one that's in Mount Cook village itself is The Hermitage.
You won’t be disappointed though, the hotel offers superb views to the mountains and hosts the Sir Edmund Hilary Alpine Centre, with information and photographs of the great man’s mountaineering exploits, which are definitely worth a peruse.
Whilst you might stop in Tekapo en route to Christchurch, in our view the hotel accommodation is not as good as the Hermitage and it would mean back-tracking on the road to drive to the mountains.
Incredible views of the mountains from the Hermitage Hotel.
So, that concludes our “round-up” of the best hotels in New Zealand. Of course accommodations are always being updated, refurbished or newly built, so there may be others who become worthy contenders in the near future (check out Sudima Hotels who are on a buying spree at the moment!), but we hope the selection chosen in these blogs have given you some food for thought as you choose where to stay on your travels around New Zealand!
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If you still aren’t sure which hotels are right for you as you plan your New Zealand trip, just give us a call and one of our knowledgeable team will be on hand to help.
Following our previous blog post that covered the best hotels on North Island, here we’re going to look at our favourite accommodations located at the “top” of the South Island. With so much fabulous accommodation to choose from on South Island, we’re going to focus in on our favourite places to stay north of the line drawn loosely by the Christchurch to Greymouth train route through the Southern Alps.
As in our “Best of the North” post, our selection of hotels is not based on algorithms or the amount a hotel may pay to third party sites to be at the top of their lists, they’ve been tried and tested by us!
So, we’ve selected hotels we’ve worked with over the past thirty years that have consistently scored highly with our travellers as they make their journey through the country’s key sites and destinations.
The Best Hotels in Picton
Starting in Picton, your likely arrival or departure point on the ferry to and from Wellington and gateway to the Marlborough Sounds. If you’re going to be staying just the night, then probably the Picton Yacht Club or The Beachcomber Inn are your best bet.
They are both conveniently located on the waterfront and both have lovely restaurants.
However, if you’re likely to be around the area for a while, a better choice would be to consider a waterfront apartment. In recent years, there has been more emphasis in building self-catering properties than hotel accommodation.
Views from The Beachcomber Inn in Picton
The Best Hotels in Blenheim
The main road south will take you to Blenheim, with accommodation for those travellers who’d like to enjoy tours of the vineyards and a spot of “tasting” at the different boutique cellars.
Among our top choices are The Chateau Marlborough, it’s a bit of a grand name but it does proclaim to be the only 5-star accommodation in the northern region of the South Island. As you’d expect, it has all the luxury facilities including a spa, pool and gym and fabulously plush beds. It’s also handily located close to all the shops and restaurants.
If you’re looking to stay within touching distance of the vines, then you can do no better than a stay at Vintners Retreat, self-contained accommodation with views across the vineyards – check out their stunning website video.
Or if it’s a smaller place with a lovely garden and a quiet location that suits you, then The Jolly Poacher Retreat is a lovely old farm villa on a sprawling five acre property.
Chateau Marlborough by night. Image credit: Jim Tannock
The Best Hotels in Nelson
It’s a pleasant two hour drive from Blenheim to Nelson and the Abel Tasman region, lovingly known as the “sunshine capital” of New Zealand, you’ll find a wide range of attractive properties both within the centre of the town and on the road out towards Abel Tasman National Park.
The Trailways Inn is centrally located within a few minutes’ walk of Nelson’s central shopping precinct, theatres and restaurants and cafés, and it’s also close to the scenic waterfront. A dip in the heated swimming pool is a lovely way to start the day, and an evening in the onsite restaurant and bar with its wonderful food and views over the Maitai River, is a great way to end it!
Another great choice is the Shelbourne Villa, which is an 1820’s Arts & Crafts-style property with four comfortable and quiet suites – there is also a well-furnished guest lounge and dining room.
If you fancy something a little more modern, Sails offers an excellent range of contemporary studio apartments with fully equipped kitchenettes and spacious lounge areas, with floor to ceiling windows that open onto a private balcony or courtyard.
Although the apartments are self-catering, there is also an extensive (and delicious!) breakfast menu available to order which can be delivered directly to your room. So if you don’t fancy cooking, you can still enjoy a delicious home cooked or continental breakfast on your balcony.
Closer to the National Park in the small settlement of Kaiteriteri, here you’ll find Kimi Ora Eco Resort – don’t be put off by the name though, it’s hardly a “resort” in the traditional sense, but it does have a swimming pool and there are sun loungers if you fancy taking in the rays. The accommodation on offer comprises a range of attractive self-contained units all set back in the native bush and the beach is just a five minute drive away. The views from the breakfast room out towards the ocean are fantastic.
You might also want to consider Ocean View Chalets situated in Marahau, at the southern entrance to the Abel Tasman National Park, these natural timber chalets are nestled on the bush line, with stunning ocean views.
Graded as four-star, you can choose between studio, one bedroom or two-bedroom chalets, each with a balcony and views out to the sea.
Inside the Park itself, you’ll find the unassuming but wonderful Awaroa Lodge, which is actually located on the Abel Tasman coastal path and makes a fabulous base for walking on the path or kayaking along the coast.
The Shelbourne Villa in Nelson
The Best Hotels on the West Coast
Travelling down the west coast from Nelson, you should head towards Punakaiki and Pancake Rocks, which are much like the blowholes of the Devil’s Staircase in Northern Ireland. After you’ve walked to the Rocks (and no doubt been soaked by the sea-spray), we recommend returning to the entrance and continuing down the coast to the stunning Punakaiki Resort.
Another property that should remove the “resort“ tag from its name, since these are simply well-appointed chalets that stretch from the bush line to the beach, with a fabulous central hub that contains the reception area and restaurant.
The Best Hotels on the East Coast
On the east coast of the South Island, you’ll come to Kaikoura, popular as the main place in New Zealand for whale watching tours and dolphin encounters.
Two stand-out properties for us can be found on the main promenade and are highly recommended.
The White Morph is a self-catering accommodation which offers a 5-star luxury spa room with stunning full views of the ocean and mountains, a 4-star deluxe studio room with a partial view of the ocean and balcony to enjoy the ocean vista. You can also choose an en-suite Garden Studio, which has a patio so you can really make the most of the beautiful gardens which surround it.
Just up the road from the White Morph is the newly-built Sudima Hotel, which has had many rave reviews since its opening.
The view from The White Morph
The Best Hotels in Hanmer Springs
Inland from Kaikoura is the spa town of Hanmer Springs and our favourite hotels here are the Hanmer Springs Hotel and the Braemar Lodge & Spa. Both of which offer exceptional levels of customer service in fabulous settings, with tranquillity and relaxation at their heart.
The exterior of the Hanmer Springs Hotel
The Best Hotels in Christchurch
And so, to the capital of South Island, the garden city of Christchurch. Of course, much of the city’s hotel stock was destroyed in the earthquake which shook the city in February 2011. Some properties have been re-built, some were mercifully untouched and a number of new one’s have been built.
Our pick of those in the city are The Chateau on the Park, which is now owned by the Hilton group and as the name suggests, is across the road from Hagley Park and the stunning Botanic Gardens.
The George is widely recognised as one of Christchurch’s most luxurious boutique accommodations. Situated on the edge of the picturesque Hagley Park, the 5-star hotel offers contemporary décor with a nod to traditional sophistication.
The fine-dining restaurant is popular with locals and visitors alike in the evenings, with the alternative option to indulge in a spot of high tea before strolling to nearby restaurant-laden Papanui Road for an evening meal.
The lobby of The George Hotel in Christchurch
Our next blog post heads further south to look at places to stay in the stunning Lakes region of Queenstown and Wanaka, as well as featuring some unique properties on the southern west coast and in Fiordland National Park, so do keep a lookout for that!
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You’ll also find more suggestions for places to stay in the northern regions of South Island as well as the rest of New Zealand in the accommodation section of our website. If you’re planning a New Zealand holiday in 2023 or 2024 and you’d like a bit of extra help figuring out where to stay, then don’t hesitate to get in touch with our friendly, knowledgeable team who’d be more than happy to discuss your requirements.
Unlike many “Best Of” lists that you’ll find on the internet, our selection of the best hotels in New Zealand is not based on algorithms or the amount a hotel may pay to third party sites to be at the top of their lists.
Instead, we’ve selected hotels that we’ve worked with over the past thirty years, all of which have consistently scored top marks with our travellers as they’ve made their way through the country’s key sites and destinations.
Our New Zealand Hotel Recommendations
Of course, there is always an element of personal choice in selecting the best hotels - what suits one person will not always suit another, and price will always be a factor.
We’ve taken a strong value for money approach in our selection, so they’re not always the most expensive or the most luxurious, but we feel they tick all the boxes when it comes to comfort, location, cost and service.
How do we go about choosing the best hotels?
As you’d expect, cleanliness, well presented rooms, comfortable beds and a good location are a given, but close to the top of the list comes customer service. We expect staff at all of our recommended hotels to go above and beyond for our travellers, and each property that makes our list is nothing short of what we consider outstanding.
There’s also something about these hotels - they may have a unique history, a top-rated chef or a particular architectural style that sets them apart from other accommodation in the area.
Those who have travelled with us before will know, we often suggest “mixing up” your accommodations so that you also have overnights in B&B’s, apartments and/or farm stays to really get a feel for what New Zealand hospitality is like - but we’ll get to those in another blog post.
So, let’s start by taking a look at some of the best hotels around North Island…
The Best Hotels in Auckland
Location is pretty important when visiting Auckland. You may see some top rated hotels that are in Auckland’s suburbs, but it’s a sprawling city and if you want to see the main sites and enjoy excursions in or out from the harbour, you really need to be down by the water.
Our first suggestion would be The Grand Millennium Hotel. Yes, a bit of a pretentious name but you’ll find the hotel has spacious rooms and open public areas with an excellent restaurant. It’s a short walk down to the harbour or to the Sky Tower, and we’re usually able to get rooms here at a very good price for a 4 star hotel.
Alternatively, Rydges Hotel is also well located on a pleasant side street which leads onto Queen Street and then just a short walk down to the harbour. Not quite as spacious as the Millennium but very comfortable with plush beds and coming in at a similar price.
More upmarket and the “new kid on the block” is The Fable. A 5-star rated hotel which is very tastefully furnished with luxurious décor that leads straight onto Queen Street and the hustle and bustle of the city.
And right on the harbourfront, you have The Pullman. Offering stylish accommodation with fantastic views of the city centre, harbour and surrounding parks. Guests also have access to a lovely day spa with a heated pool, sauna and steam room.
The Sofitel Hotel also boasts great views of Viaduct Harbour Basin. There’s a restaurant, French Press and a champagne bar on site. It also has very good sized rooms with balconies.
Finally, you might like to take a look at MSocial if you fancy something a little quirkier. Another weirdly corporate name, but again in a great location and full of fabulously fun interiors with great views across the harbour.
The view from the Club Lounge at The Grand Millennium Hotel
The Best Hotels in Paihia and Russell, Bay of Islands
In terms of size, these two settlements have hardly changed for over 150 years, so you’ll find very few high rises and corporations here. We actually favour some of the smaller Bed and Breakfasts in this area, but if you’re looking for an affordable hotel with great rooms and a great location, then you should definitely consider The Scenic Hotel, which is located just as you come into Paihia.
Or The Copthorne, which is in the next bay and closer to the Waitangi Park area. The Copthorne is more spacious and offers more in terms of facilities, but that all comes at a higher price.
The most characterful hotel in the area is The Duke of Marlborough on Russell – one of the oldest hotels in the area with wide decking around its frontage – sit on your rocking chair under the eaves and watch the world and the boats go by!
The fabulous outdoor pools at The Copthorne Hotel
The Best Hotels in Rotorua
The drive into Rotorua is down one long main street that leads to Lake Rotorua, and off the street are motels a plenty. It’s not until you get close to the lakeside that you’ll find the hotels we recommend, starting with Princes Gate which is a lovely historic hotel, originally built at the turn of the 19th century and features elegant rooms with traditional furnishings.
The Novotel Rotorua Lakeside, is a modern property with bright and airy rooms with fantastic views over the lake. The Millennium Hotel also offers spacious, comfortable rooms facing Lake Rotorua, and a really inviting heated indoor swimming pool.
A particular favourite with Silver Fern travellers has been the Regent of Rotorua, which always scores highly for its delicious restaurant dishes and its plush, spacious rooms.
The ornate exterior of the Prince's Gate Hotel in Rotoroa
The Best Hotels in Taupo
In most cases, our travellers will choose apartments or motels in Taupo, but if you want a hotel, the Hilton really is the best choice. It has spacious grounds, wonderful views over Lake Taupo and, unusually, very characterful colonial style architecture - it’s certainly not the sort you would typically associate with a Hilton Hotel!
The Best Hotels in Tongariro National Park
There’s only two hotels in the park, so it’s an easy choice; The Chateau Tongariro Hotel and the Skotel.
The Chateau Tongariro, as the name might suggest, is the more grandiose of the two. Offering large open spaces with an extensive range of facilities including a games room with billiards, sauna, indoor plunge pool and a fitness centre. The in-house cinema shows a range of films daily, too.
The accommodation is really a throwback “experience” of former glories, when visiting dignitaries and other notable travellers would drink champagne on the terrace and play golf on the 9-hole course. If you choose to stay here, then you have to view the accommodation in this light.
The Skotel Alpine Resort, which is almost hidden behind the Chateau, was primarily built for the ski season and has been crowned New Zealand’s highest hotel. But it’s more than just an upmarket ski chalet, with incredible views, pleasant interiors and a good kitchen in each room at a very good price during the summer season, it’s the perfect base for hiking and outdoor activities. Be sure to ask for a room with a view looking out across the park and not the car park!
The Chateau Tongariro and its impressive surroundings
The Best Hotels in Napier
If you’re looking for simple, clean and well located, The Scenic Hotel Te Pania is ideally positioned right on the waterfront, across from the open air pools and close to both the visitors centre and main street.
But, if it’s ostentatious charm you’re looking for, then head for the Masonic Art Deco Hotel. Featuring classic art deco architecture and décor throughout the hotel with super stylish rooms and interiors, it really is like stepping back into the 1930’s. The hotel is also located on the waterfront with panoramic views of the Pacific ocean and close to the Museum Theatre Gallery.
The exterior of The Masonic Art Deco Hotel plays host to a range of classic street cars
The Best Hotels in Wellington
As with Auckland, when visiting Wellington it’s all about location. Our recommendation is to be close to Lambton Quay so that you have easy access to the main shopping area, the restaurants along the quayside and to Te Papa, New Zealand’s National Museum.
With this in mind, we’d first recommend the James Cook Chancellor Hotel, with great views from the restaurant on the 7th floor, it’s probably in the best location. Turn left from the hotel and you’ve got the cable car up the Kelburn Heights. With great views of the harbour at the top and a lovely walk through the gardens back to the Quay, you’ll pass by the Beehive government buildings en route. If you turn right at the hotel instead, it’s an easy walk to Te Papa.
If it’s a museum experience you want, then take a look at the Museum Art Hotel. It was “moved” from the original site of the present Te Papa National Museum and is very much a cultural entity in itself.
Perhaps I should let the owners provide the description: “With abstract lines and playful patterns, we’re setting you up for eclectic dreams. Your Wellington hotel room is surrounded by urban hills and harbour views, landscapes of true visual indulgence. In a capital alive with expressive aesthetic, here you can let it soak in. This unusual accommodation in Wellington is your own creative hideaway.”
The Inter-Continental is very much the premier 5-star accommodation on the waterfront and if it’s a luxurious experience you want, then without doubt the Inter-Continental provides it from a location very close to the quayside too.
We should just mention a hotel, not on the waterside but nevertheless very much a Silver Fern favourite and that’s The Bolton Hotel. It has a range of accommodation options from elegant studios and suites to family style rooms, it’s very close to the shopping area and city sights, and has a good reputation for its customer service and ethos as a whole.
The stunning interior of the Hippo Restaurant at Museum Art Hotel
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So that’s our round-up of the best hotels on North Island – I hope I’ve given you some food for thought in selecting your accommodation. My next blog will be our list of the best hotels on South Island, so do keep a lookout for that one. In the meantime, if you’re planning a New Zealand holiday in the coming months and you’d like to know more about any of the hotels mentioned, just get in touch!
It’s about being selective and having at least a couple of nights at most locations so you are not constantly packing and unpacking or forever on the move. If you are restricted by time, consider an internal flight or train ride to break up the drive.
