New Zealand is a land of spectacular natural beauty, offering dramatic mountains, glaciers, volcanoes, lakes, rainforests and endless coastlines. Divided into the North Island and South Island, the country is ideal for round trips, self-drive holidays, motorhome adventures and active travel.
New Zealand was first settled by Polynesian navigators, whose descendants became the Māori, the indigenous people of the country. European exploration and settlement began centuries later and significantly shaped modern New Zealand.
Today, Māori heritage remains an important part of the country’s identity. Visitors can learn about traditional customs, art, music, language and the cultural significance of the land. Historic sites, museums and cultural centres provide fascinating insights into both Māori and European history.
New Zealand combines Māori traditions with a modern, multicultural lifestyle. Māori culture is visible throughout the country, from traditional haka performances and carvings to cultural experiences and celebrations.
New Zealanders are known for their relaxed lifestyle and strong connection with nature. Outdoor activities, sport, environmental awareness and adventure play an important role in everyday life.
Food and wine are also highlights of a journey through New Zealand. The country is known for excellent seafood, lamb, fresh local produce and internationally recognised wine regions.
New Zealand is relatively easy to explore independently. English is the main language, while te reo Māori is also an official language.
The country is known for its clean environment, excellent infrastructure and spectacular scenic routes. However, distances and driving times should not be underestimated, especially on the South Island, where mountain roads can be winding and weather conditions may change quickly.
The seasons are opposite to those in Europe:
Summer is popular for self-drive holidays, hiking and outdoor activities, while winter offers excellent skiing and snow sports.
New Zealand is reached by long-haul flights, usually with one or more stopovers. Popular transit hubs include Singapore, Dubai and other major international airports.
The main international gateways are Auckland, Christchurch and Wellington. Domestic flights provide convenient connections between major cities and regions.
Travellers from Europe should allow sufficient time for the long journey. A stopover in destinations such as Singapore can be an attractive way to break up the journey.
Visitors generally require a valid passport and must meet the applicable entry requirements for New Zealand. Depending on nationality and purpose of travel, an NZeTA and additional travel authorisation may be required.
New Zealand also has strict biosecurity regulations. Food, plants, animal products and outdoor equipment may need to be declared when entering the country. Travellers should check the current official entry and biosecurity requirements before departure.
The official currency is the New Zealand Dollar (NZD).
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, including in many hotels, restaurants, petrol stations and shops. Contactless payments are common, although carrying a small amount of cash can still be useful in remote areas.
A round trip is one of the best ways to discover the country’s extraordinary variety of landscapes.
Popular routes include:
Highlights can include geothermal landscapes in Rotorua, the volcanic scenery of Tongariro National Park, the Southern Alps, glaciers, fjords, Lake Wakatipu and the spectacular landscapes around Queenstown.
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New Zealand is one of the world’s best destinations for a motorhome holiday. A well-developed network of holiday parks, campsites and scenic driving routes makes it easy to explore both islands at your own pace.
A motorhome allows travellers to combine accommodation and transport while staying close to some of the country’s most spectacular natural landscapes.
Popular motorhome routes include:
Travellers should remember that driving is on the left-hand side of the road. Roads can be narrow and winding, particularly in mountain regions. Travel times are often longer than expected.
A rental car is an excellent option for travellers who prefer greater flexibility while staying in hotels, lodges or holiday homes.
Major international and local car rental companies operate at airports and in major cities. A self-drive itinerary allows visitors to explore remote beaches, national parks, vineyards and small towns at their own pace.
When renting a car, check the driving licence requirements, insurance conditions and whether an International Driving Permit is required for your licence.
New Zealand offers a wide range of accommodation, including:
Popular destinations for hotel stays include Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch, Queenstown, Rotorua and the regions surrounding the country’s national parks.
For a special experience, travellers can combine a city hotel with remote lodges, vineyard accommodation or luxury retreats surrounded by mountains and lakes.
Whether you are planning a motorhome adventure, self-drive holiday, guided round trip or luxury journey, New Zealand offers unforgettable experiences.
Explore geothermal landscapes and Māori culture on the North Island, then travel south to discover glaciers, mountains, fjords and spectacular lakes. From Auckland and Rotorua to Christchurch, Queenstown and Milford Sound, New Zealand is a destination made for discovering the open road and the beauty of nature.
