New Zealand

If you want to be far away from the crowds with amazing scenery then New Zealand can’t be beaten!

The best parts of New Zealand are the views and the friendly locals. Comprised of two main islands a short flight from Australia, New Zealand is a country of many beautiful landscapes. If you’re an ocean lover you’ll find a variety of sandy, golden beaches and endless seascapes along the coastline. If hiking and forests are calling your name, take some time to walk in the country’s pristine forests while exploring the fauna, like the Kea Parrot known as one of the world’s most intelligent birds, or The Weka, a flightless bird with a love for shiny objects.

Before You Go: Need-to-know info

Entry requirements: Valid passport
Language: English
Currency: New Zealand dollars (NZ$)
Flight time:  5 hours from Sydney and 9 hours from Perth

When To Go

Best weather: The warmest months for New Zealand are December, January and February. The coldest are June, July and August. The best times to visit are in the warmer months between September and April.

What To Do

Take a ride: Arrange for a helicopter tour (try GlacierSouthernLakes.co.nz) through New Zealand’s snowcapped Southern Alps, making your way to Milford Sound, one of the most stunning fjords in the world. You’ll get a dramatic up close view of the remote waterside canyons and on your way back to Queenstown you’ll stop off on a remote glacier, the perfect spot for a romantic champagne toast for two.

Island hop: Take a ferry to one of New Zealand’s many smaller offshore islands. Go from Auckland to Waiheke Island, which is known for its vineyards and olive groves, to sample the wine or jet over to Great Barrier Island a much more rugged, adventurous escape known for its rare wildlife sightings and secluded hot springs.

See the maritime life: One of New Zealand’s most famous marine reserves is on Poor Knights Island, where you’ll find amazing natural caves and archways and a wide range of sea life in all colours of the rainbow.  Poor Knights Island has even been called one of the world’s top diving sites.