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New Zealand Vacations, Tours, Trips & Travel Packages

  • Escape the city life of Queenstown by relaxing on the shores of Lake Wakatipu and admiring The Remarkable mountain range
  • Explore the vibrant arts and entertainment offered in the city of Wellington
  • Get cameras ready to capture as the Pohutu Geyser in Rotorua puts on a show
  • You will be impressed with Auckland's skyline, including Sky Tower, when booking one of our New Zealand vacation packages that includes Auckland.
  • Journey through Christchurch to discover just why it's known as the Garden City
  • Float through Milford Sound, a deep fjord known for its surrounding mountains, waterfalls, and wildlife

New Zealand Vacations and Tours

What would be the major reasons for booking a New Zealand vacation? This makes for a long list. One has to say that one reason is nature at her best offering breathtaking landscapes of stunning and diverse natural beauty which include majestic and dramatic fjords, spectacular glaciers, rugged mountains, vast plains and farmland, long coastlines, wonderful sandy beaches and active geothermal regions plus so much more. The country also has history, culture and, not least, Winelands producing excellent wines. 

New Zealand Travel Highlights

The size of New Zealand is comparable to that of Great Britain or Japan. The coastline in its entirety measures 1500 kilometres/900 miles in length, strangely enough, the same distance that separates New Zealand from Australia across the Tasman Sea. 20% of the country is covered in national parks, forests and reserves. An interesting fact is that 80% of the flora here is native. 

New Zealand is a country made up of two major islands, simply called the North and South Islands which are separated by the Cook Strait which is 22 kilometres/14 miles in width at its narrowest point. They contrast in not only terrain and physical features but also in character and attractions.

The North Island is volcanic and thermal. The South Island is two-thirds mountains and one-third plains. The North Island offers lush sub-tropical vegetation, exotic flora and fauna, beaches and attractive small friendly towns. Approximately 75% of Maori culture exists on the North Island although only 15% of the total New Zealand population is Maori. The Polynesians from whom the Maoris are descended, settled here many centuries ago. 

The South Island has spectacular scenery consisting of sweeping plains, snow-covered mountains and rugged coasts and abounds in natural breath-taking landscapes all to be experienced on New Zealand tours. The Southern Alps mountain chain which runs through the centre divides the South Island. It is also the location of New Zealand’s highest peak, Mount Cook at 3750 metres/12,315 feet and highly visible from a long distance away. 

Best Things to do on a New Zealand Trip

For enthusiasts of outdoor pursuits and activities on a New Zealand vacation, one can find in abundance any of the following – hiking, swimming, snorkeling, rafting, jet boating, skydiving, paragliding and hang gliding, parasailing, sailing, bungee jumping, climbing, hunting, fishing, caving, skiing and hot air ballooning. 

The North Island of New Zealand

What to do in Auckland?

As mentioned, the two major islands are very different and have unique features. Starting with the North Island, the largest city is Auckland known as the “City of Sails” due to having around 135,000 registered sailboats bobbing in its harbour. The city sits on a volcanic field and the nearby Rangitoto Island is an unpopulated land mass formed by volcanic activity. Auckland is fortunate to have a beautiful harbour which provides some attractive beaches with some located in the suburbs of Kohimarama, Devonport and Mission Bay to name a few. The harbour is also home to the Auckland Bridge which connects the centre of the city with its northern suburbs and is the gateway to the far north of the island. A landmark is the Sky Tower, the tallest freestanding structure in the Southern Hemisphere which provides excellent panoramic views of Auckland and is just one of the many photo opportunities available while on your New Zealand vacation.Auckland's Westhaven Marina

The harbour area teems with life both in the daytime and the evening with its many cafes, restaurants and bars and other entertainments. A popular pastime is to take a harbour cruise for a different visual perspective of Auckland. The city has several green areas and parks. The best known is the Auckland Domain, the oldest and one of the largest here with its remains of a volcanic crater. Other major parks are Mount Eden and One Tree Hill which both afford great views. Culturally, one can choose from a number of venues such as the Auckland Art Gallery with its 15,000 works of art, and the War Memorial Museum which not only depicts life during World Wars and others but also has an excellent exhibition of Maori and Polynesian people’s arts and crafts. A very popular attraction is Kelly Tarlton’s Underwater World where one comes close up to a diverse collection of aquatic life which includes penguins, stingrays, sharks and jellyfish. 

What to do in Wellington?

Wellington is the national capital and is a very attractive city renowned for its natural beauty and also for its arts and culture. It is ringed by mountains and rolling hills and has a rugged coastline. A vibrant city, it offers trendy cafes, restaurants, boutiques and several art galleries. To discover the city, take the cable car to Mount Victoria or Mount Kaukau to enjoy a panoramic view of Wellington and its surroundings. 

What to do in Rotorua?

Rotorua is the centre of most of the geothermal activity in New Zealand. It is known as a thermal wonderland due to its many gushing hot springs and geysers and because of these natural phenomena, Rotorua is usually included in a New Zealand vacation. There is a distinct smell of sulphur in the air here but don’t let that put you off discovering these natural phenomena. Also in Rotorua are other attractions such as the Rainbow Springs National Park, beautifully landscaped gardens featuring fish and birds including the flightless Kiwi bird and the Agrodome with its exhibition of rural New Zealand life including sheep shearing demonstrations. Nearby are the Waitomo Glow Worm Caves with their interesting limestone formations. 

 The subtropical Bay of Islands is a very pretty region made up of around 150 islands and a wonderful destination to both relax and explore on New Zealand tours – a good place to see dolphins, whales and penguins. The main centre is Pahia with its superb beaches and the site of the Waitangi Treaty signed in 1840 to unite the country. Russell is a short ferry ride from Pahia and is a charming township with an interesting history.Russell in the Bay Of Islands North Island New Zealand

Hawkes Bay is one of the major centres of New Zealand’s wine-producing regions. It is also home to the cities of Napier and Hastings which offer unusual architecture. An earthquake destroyed many of the unique Art Deco buildings here in 1931 but they have now been restored to their original structures. 

The South Island of New Zealand

What to do in Christchurch?

The South Island boasts many choices to confirm the overwhelming natural beauty that makes up this region. Starting with the largest city, Christchurch, one finds a very “English” metropolis with its buildings, gardens and Avon River which flows through the heart of the city. Stroll along the banks of the tree-lined Avon River and observe the neo-gothic architecture. Largely rebuilt after the devastating recent earthquake, the city has not lost its charm. Take in Christchurch Cathedral, the Botanical Gardens and the Christchurch Art Gallery as well as simply stroll its streets and parks. One can take a cable car up to the Port Hills for a panoramic view of both Christchurch and the port of Lyttelton on the coast. 

What to do in Queenstown?

Probably the most visited destination on a New Zealand vacation is the city of Queenstown in the South Island, a charming and scenic resort town located on Lake Wakatipu surrounded by mountains called the Remarkables. Apart from its natural beauty, it is also a centre for many sporting activities. It also has lively nightlife. One iconic excursion is to take a cruise on a restored steamship on Lake Wakatipu. Also one can take the gondola to Bob’s Peak for great views of the region.    Aerial view of Queenstown New Zealand

National Parks 

Not too far from Queenstown is the Fjordland National Park with its sheer rock walls rising straight out of the sea. The best-known natural attraction is Milford Sound, an amazingly dramatic and striking fjord and a must-inclusion on all New Zealand tours. One can take a cruise on the Sound watching seals, dolphins and penguins while sailing past flowing and cascading waterfalls. Te Anau is a small town which is the gateway to the Fjordland National Park nestled on the edge of a lake and the perfect location for setting off on hikes or walks or simply relaxing and taking in the surrounding beauty. The famous Milford Track running from Te Anau to Milford Sound offers 500 kilometres/ 300 miles of walking trails to satisfy the most energetic. 

Dunedin

The city of Dunedin in the south of the island is known as the Edinburgh of the South due to its Scottish heritage. Stately architecture and steep streets give the city its character. It is also home to the largest and oldest university in New Zealand. 

The Marlborough Region on the north coast is the gateway to the South Island and is where the ferries arrive from the North Island. It is an important wine-producing region and is known for its wine festivals. It is also a great place to watch dolphins and go sailing. Picton is an attractive seafront town with a number of arts and crafts centres. Blenheim has one of the sunniest climates in the country and has a rugged coastline suitable for interesting walks. Nelson is surrounded by snow-capped mountains, lush green forests, rolling vineyards and golden beaches. The sea here is a beautiful turquoise colour. 

To sum up, New Zealand is truly a paradise and a country in which to invest a good deal of time to discover its magical and unique charms on New Zealand tours. 

"Globetrotting with Goway" blog articles

For some additional reading, the following articles are from our blog “Globetrotting with Goway”….. a great source of information for those people who are, or who want to be, world travellers!

Unveiling Lonely Planet’s Top Attractions of the World

Enjoy Cruising in Australia and the South Pacific

Unique Wildlife in Australia and New Zealand

World's Best Family Destinations

Waltzing Downunder on a Holiday of a Lifetime!

Savour Quality Wines on a New Zealand Tour

Fiordland National Park – A New Zealand Vacation Wonderland

Feel the Heat in New Zealand’s Rotorua!

Bay of Islands – A Tropical Paradise to Discover on Your New Zealand Vacation

Unique Places for Wildlife Spotting on Your New Zealand Vacation

Ecotourism Destinations: New Zealand

How To Get the Most Out of Your New Zealand Vacation

Scenic Self-Drives Are a Great Way to Explore New Zealand

Queenstown – New Zealand’s Most Popular Destination

Explore the Artistic Beauty of Napier, in New Zealand

New Zealand Travel Information

At Goway we believe that a well-informed traveller is a safer traveller. With this in mind, we have compiled an easy-to-navigate travel information section dedicated to a New Zealand vacation. 

Learn about the history and culture of New Zealand, the must-try food and drink, and what to pack in your suitcase. Read about New Zealand's nature and wildlife, weather and geography, along with 'Country Quickfacts' compiled by our travel experts. Our globetrotting tips, as well as our visa and health information, will help ensure you're appropriately prepared for a safe and enjoyable trip. The only way you could possibly learn more is by embarking on your journey and discovering New Zealand for yourself. Start exploring...book one of our New Zealand vacations today!

Extend Your Stay

Consider an additional stopover to your New Zealand vacation at one of Goway's South Pacific destinations. You can choose from our selection of Australian vacations, Tahiti vacation packages or stay at one of our Fiji resorts or perhaps take a Cook Island vacation. This can be done stopping over en route to or from New Zealand.

 

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FEATURED TRIP
  • Travel through the South Island's Southern Alps
  • With 1.7 million citizens, Auckland is New Zealand's largest city
  • The Champagne Pool is part of Rotorua's Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland
  • Kaikoura is renown for its abundant wildlife and sperm whale population
  • Milford Sound is Fiordland’s crown jewel
FEATURED TRIP

New Zealand Odyssey: Auckland, Napier, Wellington, Queenstown & More

FIRST-CLASS | SMALL GROUP: Explore the natural wonders and cultural highlights of New Zealand on this exclusive small group journey with Goway. Go behind the scenes of famous landmarks and delve deeper into the welcoming culture of New Zealand in Auckland, Rotorua, Wellington, Christchurch, and the breathtaking fjord of Milford Sound.

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New Zealand

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  • North Island Self Drive

    FIRST-CLASS | SELF-DRIVE: Drive from Auckland to Wellington discovering the many highlights that the North Island has to offer. Stop in Coromandel Peninsula and Rotorua then visit Lake Taupo and Napier along the way.
    Duration:
    9 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 1,709
    Trip Type:
    Self-Drives, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    New Zealand See Trip Details

  • South Island Self Drive

    FIRST-CLASS | SELF-DRIVE: Drive full circle from Christchurch and back again seeing the many highlights available on the South Island including the famous Pancake Rocks and Franz Josef, Milford Sound and Dunedin.
    Duration:
    10 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 1,799
    Trip Type:
    Self-Drives, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    New Zealand See Trip Details

  • Kia Ora Family Getaway

    MODERATE | TAILOR-MADE: This family escape to New Zealand includes all the dramatic highlights, with plenty to keep the kids amused as well. Start in Auckland, one of the world’s most live-able cities. Then visit Rotorua before ending your trip in Queenstown.
    Duration:
    9 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 2,889
    Trip Type:
    Classics (Bestsellers), Family Vacations, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    New Zealand See Trip Details

  • North and South Island Self Drive

    FIRST-CLASS | SELF-DRIVE: On this multi-week program, discover the top highlights of both islands at your own pace as you drive along winding roads and past postcard-perfect vistas. One of the most visually impressive countries on Earth, you're invited discover New Zealand in-depth.
    Duration:
    18 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 2,099
    Trip Type:
    Self-Drives, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    New Zealand See Trip Details

  • Bay of Plenty New Zealand Long Stay

    MODERATE | LONG-STAY: The Bay of Plenty, one of New Zealand’s most popular holiday destinations and a thriving port city, the Bay continues to offer its bounty of beaches, restaurants, cafes and boutique shopping to visitors from near and far.
    Duration:
    29 Days
    Prices:
    On request
    Trip Type:
    Snowbird Long Stays
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  • Auckland: New Zealand Highlighter: Premier Escorted Luxury Vacation

    FIRST-CLASS | ESCORTED COACH: See the highlights of New Zealand with a group by coach while maintaining a great deal of freedom to choose your own activities. Explore the cultural and scenic sides of this unique country.
    Duration:
    14 Days
    Prices From:
    AU$ On Request
    Trip Type:
    Escorted Coach Touring, Single Friendly
    New Zealand See Trip Details

  • South Island In-Depth by Coach

    FIRST-CLASS | TAILOR-MADE: Travel the South Island experiencing all it has to offer. Enjoy whale watching in Kaikoura, Abel Tasman National Park, the West Coast Glacier Region as well as Queenstown and Scottish influenced Dunedin.
    Duration:
    13 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 2,149
    Trip Type:
    Tailor-made Travel Ideas
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  • Classic South Pacific; Australia, New Zealand and Fiji

    FIRST-CLASS | TAILOR-MADE: Enjoy the Classic South Pacific by encountering Fijian, Maori and Aboriginal cultures. Travel from Fiji to New Zealand to Australia taking in fantastic sights and experiences enroute in Auckland, Rotorua, Sydney and the Great Barrier Reef.
    Duration:
    14 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 4,396
    Trip Type:
    Classics (Bestsellers), Multi Country Vacation Ideas, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
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  • Essential New Zealand

    FIRST-CLASS | TAILOR-MADE: Explore the ultimate New Zealand experience on this 8-day trip. Start off in Auckland by exploring the city and it's natural sites. From there, head off to Rotorua to tour volcanoes, geysers, hot springs, and more. Spend a few days admiring the heritage and beauty of the South Island at Queenstown before ending you adventure in Christchurch.
    Duration:
    9 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 3,395
    Trip Type:
    Classics (Bestsellers), Tailor-made Travel Ideas
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  • Auckland to Milford Sound Expedition Cruise

    Discover New Zealand’s stunning coastal landscape and bounty of sea life on a cruise from Auckland to Queenstown. Along the way, you’ll stop off at small seaside towns, go whale watching, cruise the fjords, and explore Milford Sound, the most beautiful spot in the country.
    Duration:
    13 Days
    Prices:
    On request
    Trip Type:
    Active & Adventurous, Cruises & Sailing
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  • Auckland: Best of New Zealand: Holiday of a Lifetime

    FIRST-CLASS | ESCORTED COACH TOUR: Take in the wonders of New Zealand on this Holiday of a Lifetime. Passing north to south, you’ll explore the cities of Auckland, Queenstown, and Christchurch, marvel at natural wonders in Rotorua and Milford Sound, and enjoy the incomparable hospitality and beauty of this South Pacific nation.
    Duration:
    8 Days
    Prices:
    On request
    Trip Type:
    Bucket List Travel Ideas, Escorted Coach Touring, Holidays of a Lifetime, Single Friendly
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  • Auckland: Great Northerner: Premier Escorted Vacation

    FIRST-CLASS | ESCORTED COACH TOURING: Take a New Zealand vacation that introduces you to the natural wonders and Maori culture of the North Island. Get acquainted with the country in picturesque Auckland before touring the ancient Maori sites of the Bay of Islands and Rotorua and closing out your trip in Windy Welly.
    Duration:
    9 Days
    Prices From:
    AU$ On Request
    Trip Type:
    Escorted Coach Touring, Single Friendly
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  • Auckland: New Zealand Discoverer: Value Plus Escorted Vacation

    MODERATE | ESCORTED COACH TOUR: A comprehensive New Zealand tour from top to bottom, this trip encompasses the Land of the Long White Cloud, including its most cosmopolitan cities, and its most impressive natural sights.
    Duration:
    12 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 4,195
    Trip Type:
    Escorted Coach Touring
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  • Auckland: New Zealand Wonderland: Premier Escorted Vacation

    FIRST-CLASS | ESCORTED COACH TOURING: By travelling around the North and South Islands of New Zealand onboard a comfortable coach, you’ll get to know the truly unique and stunning landscapes of this natural wonderland.
    Duration:
    17 Days
    Prices From:
    AU$ On Request
    Trip Type:
    Bucket List Travel Ideas, Escorted Coach Touring, Single Friendly
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  • Auckland: Northern Explorer: Value Plus Escorted Vacation

    MODERATE | ESCORETED COACH TOUR: Experience the best of New Zealand’s North Island including the Bay of Islands and Rotorua.
    Duration:
    8 Days
    Prices From:
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    Trip Type:
    Escorted Coach Touring, Single Friendly
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  • Auckland: Scenic Sights: Premier Escorted Vacation

    FIRST-CLASS | ESCORTED COACH TOURING: Beginning in Auckland in the North Island, travel south by coach exploring the best of New Zealand’s scenic sights including Waitomo Caves, Kaikoura, Franz Josef and Milford Sound.
    Duration:
    11 Days
    Prices From:
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    Trip Type:
    Escorted Coach Touring, Single Friendly, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
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  • Bay of Islands Self Drive

    Drive north from Auckland to beautiful Bay of Islands. Enjoy some leisure time and get to know the area before visiting the superb beaches of Cape Reinga, New Zealand’s northernmost point.
    Duration:
    4 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 549
    Trip Type:
    Self-Drives
    New Zealand See Trip Details

  • Beautiful Cities of New Zealand Self Drive

    FIRST-CLASS | SELF-DRIVE: Explore the beauty of New Zealand’s iconic cities and natural wonders at your own speed on this road trip. Connect from Auckland to Queenstown, visiting Rotorua and Christchurch as well as natural and cultural landmarks such as the Hobbiton Movie Set, Lake Taupo, and Milford Sound along the way.
    Duration:
    12 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 3,469
    Trip Type:
    Self-Drives
    New Zealand See Trip Details

  • Bush & Beach Walk 3 Day

    Spend three days walking through native forests, past headlands, through estuaries and onto sandy beaches. This is a great alternative for those with limited time to explore New Zealand.
    Duration:
    3 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 1,059
    Trip Type:
    Active & Adventurous, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
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  • Christchurch: Essence of New Zealand: Premier Escorted Vacation

    FIRST-CLASS | ESCORTED COACH TOURING: Discover the best of New Zealand from Christchurch to Auckland on this brisk, first class coach tour that includes the Fiordlands, adventure-loving Queenstown, glacier country, the Marlborough wine region, Rotorua, the Bay of Islands, and more.
    Duration:
    20 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 8,495
    Trip Type:
    Classics (Bestsellers), Escorted Coach Touring, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
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  • Christchurch: Great New Zealand Rail & Cruise Experience: Premier Escorted Vacation

    This escorted experience is perfect for train buffs. Travel on coaches, cruises and enjoy iconic New Zealand rail journeys while staying in comfortable accommodation. The journey will take you from Auckland and geothermal centre of Rotorua, to the capital of Wellington before moving onto the South Island and exploring famous Milford Sound.
    Duration:
    19 Days
    Prices From:
    AU$ On Request
    Trip Type:
    Escorted Coach Touring, Rail Travel Ideas, Single Friendly
    New Zealand See Trip Details

  • Christchurch: Incredible New Zealand: Value Plus Escorted Vacation

    MODERATE | ESCORTED COACH TOUR: Explore New Zealand’s North and South Islands on this 13-day adventure. Make your way from Christchurch to Auckland, stopping at New Zealand’s most beautiful lakes, mountain ranges, waterfalls, beaches, rainforests, glaciers, and even glow worm caves on this escorted coach tour.
    Prices From:
    US$ 4,195
    Trip Type:
    Escorted Coach Touring, Single Friendly
    New Zealand See Trip Details

  • Christchurch: Jewels of the South: Premier Escorted Vacation

    FIRST-CLASS | ESCORTED COACH TOUR: Explore the breathtaking landscape of the South Island and enjoy premier accommodations on this journey across New Zealand. Starting in Christchurch, you’ll explore the natural wonders of New Zealand’s South Island, including Aoraki/Mt. Cook, Milford Sound, and the lake country of Queenstown.
    Duration:
    14 Days
    Prices From:
    AU$ On Request
    Trip Type:
    Escorted Coach Touring, Single Friendly
    New Zealand See Trip Details

  • Christchurch: Southern Escape: Value Plus Escorted Vacation

    MODERATE | ESCORTED COACH TOUR: This South Island New Zealand tour shows you the Land of the Long White Cloud at its most dramatic, from powerful glaciers, to majestic Mount Cook, plus Rudyard Kipling’s ‘Eighth Wonder of the World,’ Milford Sound.
    Duration:
    8 Days
    Prices From:
    AU$ On Request
    Trip Type:
    Escorted Coach Touring, Single Friendly
    New Zealand See Trip Details

  • Christchurch: Southern Tourer: Premier Escorted Vacation

    MODERATE | ESCORTED COACH: You’ll begin and end in Christchurch experiencing the best of New Zealand’s South Island. Travel by coach to view famous sites like Franz Josef, Queenstown, Te Anau, Dunedin and Mount Cook.
    Duration:
    9 Days
    Prices From:
    AU$ On Request
    Trip Type:
    Escorted Coach Touring, Single Friendly
    New Zealand See Trip Details
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