New Zealand

Known as the ‘Land of the Long White Cloud’ in native Maori language, New Zealand stretches gloriously out for almost one thousand miles across two main islands…both filled with characterful and quirky places to stay.

Discover active volcanoes, island havens and rich Maori heritage on the North island, while the South specialises in shimmering glaciers, fjords and majestic mountains. Whichever you decide to head to first, you’re guaranteed to be in for an exceptional visual treat…of the kind that brought the Lord of the Rings so memorably to life.

Wellington, the country’s vibrant capital city, is as good a place as any to start your journey. Home to Te Papa Tongarewa, the country’s famous national museum, you’ll also find plenty of buzzing cafés, bars and restaurants.  While you’re in the area, why not head to the wine-drenched region of Wairarapa for a well-deserved tipple?

Marlborough, the famed hub of New Zealand’s wine industry, can be found at the sunshine-soaked top of the South Island, while back on the North, Hawke’s Bay is perfect for foodies and lovers of art deco architecture alike.

Auckland is New Zealand’s largest city, filled with greenery, spread across ancient volcanoes, and featuring two harbours – an ideal spot for hiking, swimming, and taking in some fabulous scenery. Meanwhile, the ever-popular Pacific Coast Highway touring route takes in the stunning Bay of Plenty. You’ll find the country’s best-loved beach here – Whangamata, which features a unique combination of beach and rainforest.

Rotorua is the setting for hot, bubbling geysers, while the country’s largest lake, Taupo, is a heavenly haven for water babies! Taupo is also an ideal base for visiting Tongariro National Park, whose magnificent volcanoes took a starring role in the Lord of the Rings.

You’ll find Canterbury’s Mount Cook – also known as the ‘cloud piercer’ mountain – on the South Island, with a National Park that’s home to 19 awe-inspiring peaks and a designated Dark Sky Reserve (so bring your stargazing binoculars!)

Neighbouring Kaikoura is a sanctuary for marine life, and you’ll find some of the world’s rarest wildlife on the Otago Peninsula, including the yellow-eyed penguin. Oh – and a boat trip to Stewart Island gives you a fantastic opportunity to observe native kiwi in the wild.

Finally, head to the West Coast for a peek at some of the country’s finest glaciers, along with the gorgeous blue Hokitika Gorge.

One of the very best things about a trip to New Zealand? Its conveniently compact geography means you can see and do a whole lot in a very short time.

So with all that said, we’ve got just one question: when are you booking your visit?