Sublime mountains, rugged coastlines, world-class cuisine and welcoming people

New Zealand is my favourite country in the world. The North Island is full of history and culture, from the Waitangi treaty grounds in the Bay of Islands, to the thermal Maori villages in Rotorua and the art deco city of Napier. You will get a real sense of who ‘kiwis’ are and the history that has shaped this small but great country. In the South Island you will find yourself lost in the dramatic scenery that has been the backdrop for so many films, most notably of course is Lord of The Rings. In a country with three times more sheep than people, you can really absorb yourself in the beauty of such an unspoiled landscape.

Katie Holmes

Travel Designer

Escape to the other side of the world and discover this small country that packs a punch with rugged coastlines, pristine beaches, snow-capped mountain ranges and bubbling geysers. Add world-class cuisine and an endearing culture and it’s no surprise those who visit New Zealand are quick to fall in love with it.

The country’s two main islands are dramatically diverse, the less inhabited but larger south is home to striking lakes, epic alpine ranges, remarkable marine and birdlife and rugged coastlines. The north is rich in Maori and European culture and is home to miles of sandy beaches, surfing, verdant vineyards, thermal reserves and the country’s cosmopolitan cities of Auckland and Wellington.

A bucketlist country for any lover of the outdoors, New Zealand has some of the world’s best hiking and with a population of just 4.6 million it’s easy to get a piece of this spectacular scenery all to yourself. Discover one of its nine ‘Great Walks’ or simply head out into its easily accessible wilderness to kayak tranquil inlets, hike through native bush alive with birdsong or take your pick of the endless secluded beaches. Its diverse environment is a playground for adrenaline junkies who come here in pursuit of white water rafting, skiing, caving, canyoning, skydiving, paragliding and bungee jumping.

New Zealand retains a distinct and fascinating history and culture. Traditional Maori customs are laced with colonial European heritage and a strong Asian influence – all together creating a vibrant and contemporary urban life. The locals are easy going, welcoming and their trademark self-effacing humour is infectious.

The country’s food, which was once a poor spin-off of British fare, is now a fresh and inspiring blend of new world cuisines. It boasts some of the best coffee, an exploding craft beer scene, internationally renowned wines as well as an abundance of fresh seafood.

Best of all? Thanks to its remote location and small population you can discover this country’s treasure trove of wonders away from any crowds and get an authentic taste of the life that is lived and loved by its inhabitants.

Need to Know

2:51 is the local time

New Zealand Dollar is the local currency

Wellington is the capital city

Bacon and egg pie is New Zealand's national dish

Auckland is the country's largest city

When to go

New Zealand is a year-round destination. In summer visit the beaches and explore the country's National Parks. Spring is a mild time of year to travel and the countryside comes to life. In winter the South Island is a playground for outdoor adventures and epic scenery. Autumn sees cold, crisp days in the South Island and more mild rainy days in the North Island.

Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct

Nov

Dec