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New Zealand is one of the world's most spectacular countries, packing incredible diversity into two main islands. The South Island dazzles with the dramatic fjords of Milford Sound, the adventure capital of Queenstown, majestic glaciers, and the stunning Southern Alps. The North Island captivates with geothermal wonders at Rotorua, Māori cultural heritage, the glowworm caves of Waitomo, and the iconic film locations of Middle-earth.
From adrenaline-pumping activities like bungee jumping, skydiving, and jet boating to serene wine tasting in Marlborough, scenic train journeys, and wildlife encounters, New Zealand offers experiences for every type of traveler. With some of the world's most photogenic landscapes, friendly locals, and a strong commitment to environmental conservation, it's no wonder New Zealand consistently ranks among the world's top travel destinations.
The South Island is New Zealand's crown jewel, home to some of the planet's most dramatic landscapes. Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site, Fiordland National Park showcases nature at its most magnificent, while Queenstown pulses with adventure and alpine beauty.
Often called the "eighth wonder of the world," Milford Sound is a spectacular fjord carved by ancient glaciers over millions of years. Sheer rock faces rise 1,200 meters from dark waters, permanent waterfalls cascade hundreds of meters, and rainforests cling impossibly to granite cliffs.
Bottlenose dolphins, New Zealand fur seals, Fiordland crested penguins, and endemic birds including kea (alpine parrots) and rare takahe.
December-March (summer) for stable weather, though waterfalls are most spectacular after rain. October-November offers spring blooms with fewer crowds.
4-hour scenic drive from Queenstown through stunning mountain passes, or 25-minute scenic flight. Overnight tours available from Te Anau.
Nestled on the shores of Lake Wakatipu and surrounded by the Remarkables mountain range, Queenstown is where adrenaline meets alpine beauty. This compact lakeside town offers world-class adventure activities, award-winning restaurants, boutique vineyards, and stunning scenery.
Tandem jumps from 15,000ft over Remarkables
Kawarau Bridge (birthplace of commercial bungee)
Shotover River canyon thrills
Coronet Peak & Remarkables (June-Oct)
Skyline Queenstown with panoramic views
Gibbston Valley & Central Otago vineyards
New Zealand's highest peak (3,724m) dominates this alpine wonderland. Glacier walks, scenic flights over the Tasman Glacier, world-class stargazing at the Dark Sky Reserve, and challenging alpine hikes.
Walk to the glacier terminals or take helicopter hikes onto the ice. These accessible glaciers descend from the Southern Alps through temperate rainforest – a rare phenomenon found nowhere else.
The "Garden City" rebuilt with innovation and resilience. Visit the Cardboard Cathedral, Botanic Gardens, punt on the Avon River, and explore nearby Akaroa's French heritage and Hector's dolphins.
Rugged coastline, Pancake Rocks at Punakaiki, pristine rainforests, historic gold-mining towns, and the wild beaches of the Tasman Sea.
Intricate waterways, world-renowned Sauvignon Blanc vineyards, gourmet food trails, and the Queen Charlotte Track for hikers and mountain bikers.
The North Island pulses with geothermal energy, rich Māori heritage, and iconic film locations. From bubbling mud pools and shooting geysers to glowworm caves and Middle-earth magic, the North Island offers distinct experiences complementing the South Island's alpine grandeur.
Rotorua sits atop one of the world's most active geothermal regions, where the earth's raw power creates an otherworldly landscape of spouting geysers, bubbling mud, colorful mineral pools, and steaming vents. It's also the heart of Māori culture in New Zealand.
Over 500 geothermal features including the 30-meter high Pōhutu Geyser (erupting 10-25 times daily), silica terraces, and acidic crater lakes in spectacular colors.
Rotorua is the heartland of Te Arawa people. Learn about Māori traditions, tikanga (customs), traditional arts, and the significance of geothermal resources to iwi (tribes).
Year-round destination. Summer (Dec-Feb) offers warm weather for lake activities, while winter (Jun-Aug) makes hot pools especially inviting. The area is particularly atmospheric on misty mornings.
Visit the world's most famous film location from The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit trilogies. The Hobbiton Movie Set in Matamata has been transformed into a permanent attraction, complete with 44 hobbit holes, the Party Tree, the Green Dragon Inn, and meticulously maintained gardens.
Descend into an underground wonderland where thousands of glowworms create a starry ceiling in complete darkness. The Glowworm Grotto boat ride is one of New Zealand's most magical experiences.
New Zealand's largest city spans two harbors. Climb Sky Tower, explore volcanic cones, sail the Waitemata Harbour, visit wine regions on Waiheke Island, and enjoy multicultural dining and nightlife.
144 subtropical islands with turquoise waters. Swim with dolphins, big game fishing, visit historic Waitangi Treaty Grounds, cruise to the famous Hole in the Rock, and explore charming Russell.
New Zealand's oldest national park and dual UNESCO World Heritage site. The Tongariro Alpine Crossing (19.4km) is one of the world's best day hikes, crossing volcanic terrain with emerald lakes and active craters.
The vibrant capital city with Te Papa National Museum, craft beer scene, cable car, Zealandia ecosanctuary, Weta Workshop (special effects studio), and gateway to South Island via ferry.
Beaches, native forest, Cathedral Cove's stunning rock archway, Hot Water Beach where you can dig your own thermal spa, and the scenic coastal drive.
Experience the best of New Zealand with our carefully crafted multi-day tour packages. We handle all logistics, accommodation, transport, and activities so you can focus on enjoying your journey.
Highlights: Queenstown, Milford Sound, Mt Cook, glaciers, Christchurch
Includes: Accommodation, transport, cruise, guided activities
From: $2,495 per person twin share
View ItineraryHighlights: Both islands - Queenstown, Milford, Rotorua, Hobbiton, Auckland
Includes: Accommodation, inter-island flights, all activities
From: $3,995 per person twin share
View ItineraryHighlights: Auckland, Rotorua, Hobbiton, Waitomo Caves, Bay of Islands
Includes: Accommodation, transport, cultural experiences
From: $1,795 per person twin share
View ItineraryHighlights: Comprehensive both islands with premium accommodation and exclusive experiences
Includes: Luxury lodges, private tours, scenic flights
From: $6,995 per person twin share
View ItineraryNew Zealand invented adventure tourism with the world's first commercial bungee jump in 1988. Today, it offers every imaginable thrill activity in stunning natural settings.
Tandem jumps over Queenstown, Lake Taupo, Bay of Islands, or glaciers
Kawarau Bridge (43m), Nevis (134m), Auckland Harbour Bridge
Shotover River, Rangitikei River, Kaituna (7m waterfall drop!)
360° spins through narrow canyons – Shotover, Dart River
Untouched powder fields in Southern Alps
Rappel waterfalls, jump into pools, slide down chutes
Fly through native forest canopy in Rotorua, Queenstown
Soar over Queenstown, Wanaka, or Nelson with instructors
New Zealand is a hiker's paradise with world-class "Great Walks" and countless day hikes through diverse landscapes.
Summer (Dec-Feb): Peak season, warm weather (20-30°C), long days, beaches
Autumn (Mar-May): Fewer crowds, autumn colours, stable weather, wine harvest
Winter (Jun-Aug): Skiing, snow-capped mountains, cozy attractions, northern warmth
Spring (Sep-Nov): Wildflowers, newborn lambs, shoulder season prices, blooming gardens
Our guided tours include all transport. For independent travelers: rental cars (drive on left!), scenic trains (TranzAlpine, Northern Explorer), domestic flights between cities, and intercity coaches.
Currency: New Zealand Dollar (NZD). Cards widely accepted. ATMs in all towns. Expect to spend $100-200 NZD per day for mid-range travel (excluding tours). Tipping not required but appreciated for exceptional service.
Australians don't need a visa. Most nationals can visit visa-free for up to 3 months with NZeTA (electronic travel authority). Check official Immigration NZ website for your country's requirements.
Minimum 7-10 days to see highlights of one island. 14 days ideal for both islands. Three weeks allows more depth. Our 7-day South Island and 5-day North Island tours are perfect for first-timers, while our 14-day Ultimate tour covers comprehensive highlights of both islands with comfortable pacing.
Both offer distinct experiences. South Island is famous for dramatic landscapes: fjords, glaciers, mountains, and Queenstown adventures. North Island features geothermal activity, Māori culture, Hobbiton, and subtropical beaches. If limited to one island, first-timers often prefer South Island for iconic scenery, but culture enthusiasts love the North. Our 10-14 day tours combine both islands for complete experience.
Options include coach tour from Queenstown (full day, most economical), fly-cruise-fly (combines aerial views with cruise), overnight cruise (intimate small-boat experience), or independent drive (4 hours each way on stunning scenic route). Coach tours include stops at Mirror Lakes and Homer Tunnel. Weather can affect flights, so coach is most reliable.
New Zealand is comparable to Australia for costs. Accommodation ranges $100-300 NZD/night. Activities $50-400 NZD. Meals $15-50 NZD. Our tour packages offer excellent value by bundling accommodation, transport, and major activities at discounted group rates. Book early for best deals, travel shoulder season (Mar-May, Sep-Nov) for lower prices.
Absolutely! We specialize in tailor-made itineraries. Want more adventure activities? Extra time in Queenstown? Luxury lodges? Photography focus? Slower pace? We'll adjust any tour or create something completely custom based on your interests, budget, fitness level, and time. Contact us for personalized planning.
Yes! New Zealand is excellent for families. Many activities suit children: Hobbiton (all ages love it), glowworm caves, wildlife encounters, easy walks, gondolas, farm visits, and beaches. Some adventure activities have minimum ages (typically 10-12 for rafting/zip-lining, 15+ for bungee). We offer family-specific tours with appropriate pacing and activities.
New Zealand has unique endemic species due to geographic isolation. Expect: kiwi birds (nocturnal, sanctuaries offer viewing), kea (mischievous alpine parrots), yellow-eyed penguins, fur seals, dolphins, whales (seasonal), tuatara (ancient reptile), and numerous forest birds. New Zealand has no snakes or dangerous animals! Marine reserves offer penguin colonies and seal encounters.
Not if you join our guided tours – we handle all transport. For independent travel, cars offer flexibility to explore at your own pace, though distances are significant (e.g., 4 hours Queenstown to Milford). Scenic trains, domestic flights, and coach services connect main centers. Many travelers combine guided tours in key regions with independent time in cities.
Highly recommended. New Zealand outdoor activities carry inherent risks, weather can cause disruptions, and medical costs are expensive for non-residents. Ensure your policy covers adventure activities you plan to do (skiing, bungee, skydiving require specific coverage). We can't proceed with some activities without proof of adequate insurance.
New Zealand leads the world in sustainable tourism through the Qualmark and Tiaki Promise initiatives. Cooee Tours is committed to minimizing environmental impact while maximizing benefits to local communities.
Tiaki Promise: All our travelers receive the Tiaki Promise guide, committing to care for New Zealand's land, sea, and nature, respect culture, and travel safely.
From Milford Sound's misty fjords to Rotorua's bubbling mud pools, Hobbiton's rolling hills to Queenstown's alpine adventures – New Zealand awaits. Let our expert team create your perfect Kiwi adventure.
View Tours & Book Your AdventureQuestions? Call us or request a custom itinerary quote