kiwi kaleidoscope

There’s more to Auckland than you might think – the region offers access to world-class luxury accommodation, award winning wineries, vibrant culture and unique experiences making it a hot spot for kiwis. The City of Sails sprawls over volcanic hills and around twin harbours, offering an exhilarating mix of natural wonders and urban adventures.

It is the largest Polynesian city in the world, and with over 180 different ethnic groups, Auckland has blossomed into a multi-cultural hub of culture and art making it a bustling, cosmopolitan and vibrant city.

Step into a unique landscape of utter beauty; a region offering authentic Maori cultural encounters, thrilling adventure, and bubbling mud pools.

Rotorua is known for showcasing our fascinating Maori culture, mud pools, shooting geysers, and natural hot springs as the seething power of inner earth comes to the surface. Boasting 18 incredible lakes, three major rivers, and the mighty Mount Tarawera; these treasured natural assets are all part of Rotorua’s allure.

The region is host to some incredible fishing locations with trophy trout to be had year round on the lakes, rivers and streams. Adventure is right around the corner on the Kaituna River, with White Water Rafting on the world’s highest commercially rafted waterfall; or perhaps you are tempted by the soothing powers of the regions many natural hot springs. Whatever your inclination, you’ll be wishing you had more time!

The oldest city on New Zealand’s South Island, Nelson, lies on the eastern shore of Tasman Bay. With more than 2500 hours of sunshine a year, it is also considered the country’s sunniest city and is a perfect setting in which to enjoy an array of adventure and leisure activities – biking, horse trekking, rock climbing, wine-tasting at local estates, or simply enjoying the golden beaches and superb views of the Tasman Bay. 

Where mountains meet the sea and wildlife takes over civilisation, Kaikōura is best known for its vast coastline which hugs the Pacific Ocean. Kaikōura is a year-round destination featuring some of the most memorable experiences that New Zealand has to offer including Whale Watching and one of our all-time favourite activities in New Zealand, Swimming with the Dolphins.

Add in a visit to the local seal colonies, watching the incredibly graceful Royal Albatross, a walk around the Kaikōura Peninsular, a visit to the museum and simply taking in sun rising over the Pacific; there’s lots to do here.

Situated on the eastern coast of New Zealand’s South Island, the vibrant city of Christchurch is the largest city on the island. Dubbed the 'Garden City', it is known for its many lush green spaces and possesses a multicultural charm with an added dash of Victorian flair.

The city offers a fabulous array of activities, including punting down the Avon River, helicopter tours, hot air ballooning, whale and dolphin watching. Enjoy a stroll around the beautifully sculptured parks, visit the Christchurch Botanic Gardens and browse numerous art galleries. 

Surrounded by the dramatic alpine landscapes of Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park, this spectacular destination is home to New Zealand’s highest mountain and longest glacier. Part of a UNESCO World Heritage Area, the region offers extraordinary wilderness experiences, from scenic walks and alpine adventures to glacier lake cruises and breathtaking stargazing beneath some of the world’s darkest skies. Explore the magnificent Hooker Valley, discover the Tasman Glacier or visit the Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre to learn about New Zealand’s mountaineering heritage. With its towering peaks, glacial valleys and remarkable natural beauty, Aoraki / Mount Cook is one of the South Island’s most unforgettable destinations.

Creating one wall of the eroded valley that now forms Otago Harbour, the Otago Peninsula lies half an hour’s drive east of Dunedin City on the Otago Coast. The sliver of land is home to numerous interesting heritage sites, stunning wild walking trails, and impressive, accessible wildlife. The haven of rolling hills, tranquil bays and soft sandy beaches make idyllic landscapes to explore. A host of tours show visitors sites such as the impressive gothic revival Larnach Castle, the 1000-year-old matai trees in the Glenfalloch Woodland Garden, and the Ōtākou Marae Cultural Centre, which offers insight into Ngai Tahu life. Animals that make their home here include albatross, penguins, fur seals and sea lions. Don’t miss the opportunity to watch the port’s daily operations and learn about maritime pursuits at the Maritime Museum.

Nestled on the shores of Lake Te Anau, the South Island’s largest lake, this picturesque town is the gateway to the spectacular wilderness of Fiordland National Park and Milford Sound. Surrounded by towering mountains, ancient rainforests and pristine waterways, Te Anau offers a wonderful blend of natural beauty and outdoor adventure. Explore the renowned Milford, Kepler and Routeburn Great Walks, enjoy scenic lake cruises, kayaking and trout fishing, or discover the magical underground world of the Te Anau Glowworm Caves. Visit the Punanga Manu o Te Anau bird sanctuary to encounter some of New Zealand’s remarkable native birds, including the rare takahē. With its peaceful lakeside setting and extraordinary surrounding landscapes, Te Anau is an ideal base for exploring Fiordland.

The southwestern corner of New Zealand’s South Island presents a picture of incredible contrasts – the snow-capped Southern Alps towering over massive, deep lakes, and ocean flooded valleys, it’s breathtaking. Of the 14 fiords that dramatically carve into 215km of coastline, Milford Sound is the most accessible and popular, with the more remote Doubtful Sound offering a wealth of marine life.

Take a boat charter or cruise, helicopter flip, or one of the many walking trails in the area. Lake Te Anau offers the perfect base for your exploration of this acclaimed World Heritage Site, and if it’s a family holiday, the kids will love the Discovery Centre underwater observatory and glowworm caves.

Nestled in picture postcard fashion on the shores of the Lake Wakatipu, and with a reputation as the adrenalin capital of the Southern Hemisphere, Queenstown is a sophisticated resort destination like no other.

The gateway to the Fiordland National Park, the town is surrounded by mountains, glaciers, fiords, backcountry fly fishing rivers, Lord of the Rings film scenes, deserted gold mining settlements and a host of exciting tour options.