New Zealand

Live the Adventure in Middle-Earth

Prepare for a journey that defies expectation: New Zealand, known in Māori as Aotearoa, "the land of the long white cloud". Dramatic geological forces, a rich and living Māori culture, and an inherent adventurous spirit profoundly shape this extraordinary country. From majestic fiords to bubbling geothermal wonders, New Zealand promises an adventure that awakens every sense.

Imagine cruising Milford Sound's mirror-like waters, surrounded by towering peaks that plunge into the depths, feeling like you've stepped into a painting. Explore Rotorua's otherworldly mud pools and geysers, experiencing Earth's raw power and the heart of Māori culture. Be enchanted by a golden sunset over Abel Tasman National Park's pristine beaches. For a truly unique view, hike the striking volcanic landscapes of the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, with its emerald lakes and panoramic vistas. These are just a few epic moments waiting to fill your travel album.

Did You Know? There are more sheep in New Zealand than people. Like, a lot more! At one point, there were as many as 22 sheep for every person, and even today, it's still somewhere around 4 or 5 sheep for every human. So, if you ever visit, expect to see a lot of fluffy, four-legged residents!

Ethos Travel Advice: Embrace New Zealand's incredible outdoor culture! Pack layers and waterproof gear as weather changes fast, especially in the mountains. Always follow "Leave No Trace" principles, dispose of waste properly, and respect the pristine environment. Pay attention to local signage, as many tracks have guidelines to protect fragile ecosystems.

Travel to New Zealand with Ethos Escapes

New Zealand boasts incredible natural beauty and a rich Māori culture. We can help you plan this grand adventure by taking care of all the details to suit your preferences. Here are three itinerary ideas to spark your imagination.

International Stopovers

As there are no direct flights from the UK to New Zealand, a stopover is essential. Given the distance, flying westward via the USA (via San Francisco or LA) is as viable as flying eastward. Why not transform this necessary break into an exciting opportunity to explore another country for a few days?

For seamless connections and vibrant appeal, we highly recommend exhilarating Singapore. Other excellent choices include Hong Kong, blending skyscrapers with serene temples, or Dubai, featuring ultra-modern architecture and traditional souks.

Ready to plan your Kiwi adventure? Get in touch today!

Kia Ora New Zealand

Ideal For

First-time travellers wanting a concentrated taste of New Zealand's most famous natural wonders, cultural highlights, and adventure hubs, including breathtaking Lord of the Rings locations.

Itinerary Breakdown

Day 1: The Great Flight — Your journey begins with a long-haul flight from the UK to Auckland, lasting between 24 to 30 hours, including at least one stop.

Days 2-3: Auckland & Hobbiton (North Island) — Arrive in Auckland, the "City of Sails," and immerse yourself in its vibrant harbour and the iconic Sky Tower. Visit the magical Matamata for a Hobbiton Movie Set tour, then onwards to Rotorua.

Day 4: Rotorua & Geothermal Wonders (North Island) — Explore Rotorua, the heart of Māori culture and geothermal activity. Witness dramatic geysers and bubbling mud pools, concluding your day with a traditional Hāngi dinner and cultural performance.

Day 5: Tongariro's Volcanic Grandeur (North Island) — Venture into Tongariro National Park, a land shaped by fire and famously depicted as Mordor. Enjoy scenic drives and walks, with stunning views of Mount Ngauruhoe (Mount Doom).

Days 6-7: Wellington, Scenic Ferry & Marlborough Wines (North/South Island) — Drive to Wellington, New Zealand's capital. Explore Te Papa museum and the Cable Car. Then, take the beautiful Interislander Ferry to Picton, before driving through the renowned Marlborough wine region.

Days 8-10: Christchurch (South Island) — Travel to Christchurch, the South Island's largest city, to discover its arts scene and botanical gardens. A short flight then takes you to Queenstown, the adventure capital, nestled amidst the Southern Alps.

Days 11-13: Queenstown's Adventures & Fiordland's Majesty (South Island) — Experience adrenaline-pumping activities in Queenstown, explore charming nearby towns, or visit Lake Wanaka. Dedicate a day to cruising the iconic Milford Sound, marvelling at its cliffs and waterfalls.

Days 14-15: Mount Cook & Scenic Drive East (South Island) — Enjoy a final walk in Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park, then begin your scenic drive towards Lake Tekapo for an overnight stop. Day 15 continues your picturesque journey to Christchurch for your final night.

Day 16: Departure — Enjoy your last moments in Christchurch before departing for the UK.

Practical Information

Pace: Moderate to Fast.
Where: Covers key highlights of both the North and the South Island.
Transport: A crucial domestic flight from Christchurch to Queenstown to save driving time, the Interislander Ferry for the scenic North-South crossing, and extensive self-driving.
Accommodation: A comfortable mix of city hotels and lodges.
Guides: Recommended for Māori cultural experiences, any desired hikes in Tongariro, and Fiordland cruises for enhanced understanding and safety.

Enquiry Call Back

Best Time to Visit

Dec-Feb (peak season):
warmest, ideal for outdoors activities
Mar-May: milder, beautiful colours
Jun-Aug: cooler, good for whale watching
Sep-Nov: changeable, blooming landscapes

Time Difference

+11h (UK summer/BST)
+13h (UK winter/GMT)
New Zealand observes Daylight Saving

Flight Time

Very long haul
London to Auckland: 23-26 hours
(typically with 1 stop but often 2)

Visas & Health

Obtain a New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) online
Passport valid 3+ months
Check vaccinations with your GP
High standards of health and hygiene

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