So, you’re planning a trip to the land of breathtaking landscapes, vibrant culture, and the occasional sheep sighting? Awesome! But before you start packing your bags and dreaming of those epic South Island views, here are the essential questions every traveller should ask before embarking on the adventure of a lifetime in New Zealand.
1. When is the Best Time to Visit New Zealand?
The best time to visit New Zealand? Drumroll, please… 🥁 Anytime! Seriously, this place is a year-round wonderland. But let’s be real—there are some times you might want to avoid if you’re not keen on sharing your vacation with every Kiwi and their dog.
Peak Times: Our holiday season runs from Christmas Day to the last week of January, and trust us, Kiwis love to hit the road during this time. It’s like a nationwide family reunion! If you’re okay with crowds, go for it! But if you prefer to enjoy the stunning scenery without elbowing your way through tourists, maybe steer clear.
Chinese New Year: Another time to keep an eye on is Chinese New Year. While it may not be a big deal for many of us Kiwi, travellers from Asia flood our shores to soak up the summer sun. The date changes every year and lasts for about 14 days, so keep an eye on the calendar. You don’t want to find yourself competing for space on a crowded beach!
So, if you want to dodge the crowds and snag some better deals, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons—spring (September to November) and autumn (March to May). You’ll get all the beauty without the hustle! Just keep in mind that if you do come during peak times, expect to pay top dollar for accommodations and activities.
2. Where Do I Start? Can I See Both Islands, and How Long Should I Spend in Each?
Ah, the age-old question: where to start in this beautiful country? Should you see both islands when visiting New Zealand? Absolutely! But let’s break it down so you don’t end up in a travel frenzy.
North Island Highlights: If you’re after lively cities, stunning beaches, and geothermal wonders, the North Island is your jam. Check out Auckland (our biggest city), the creative hub of Wellington, and the geysers of Rotorua. Most spend about 5-7 days in the North Island soaking in the local vibes and indulging in some fish and chips—it’s basically a national treasure.
South Island Highlights: Now, if you’re a nature lover, the South Island is calling your name with its jaw-dropping mountains and fjords. Think Queenstown for adrenaline junkies, the iconic Milford Sound, and the breathtaking Franz Josef Glacier. Give this island at least 7-10 days—you’ll want to stop for selfies every five minutes.
And here’s the fun part: with our customisable 3-night packages, you can mix and match to create your ideal trip, whether it’s a long weekend or a multi-week adventure! We’ll help you craft an itinerary that reflects your interests and travel style.
3. Unrealistic Ideas About Distances Between Places
One of the biggest misconceptions about New Zealand is that we’re all about quick hops. Spoiler alert: we’re not! While our country looks small on a map, it can be a deceptive little bugger.
Driving Time: Our roads can be winding and hilly, which means you may find yourself questioning your life choices as the GPS says it’s only 200 kilometres away but still feels like a mini-road trip. For example, the drive from Queenstown to Milford Sound takes about 4 hours—and that’s without stopping for every “oh-my-gosh-look-at-that-view” moment.
Plan for Stops: Allow extra time for those spontaneous stops along the way. With scenic views, charming towns, and maybe a few sheep crossing, you’ll find it hard to resist pulling over.
As a rule of thumb, aim for about 60-80 kilometers (37-50 miles) per hour when driving. This way, you won’t end up frantically calculating how to fit all your must-see spots into one day.
