Starting to dream about a North Island itinerary? While the South Island often gets the glory for its rugged peaks, the North Island (Te Ika-a-Māui) is the cultural heart of the country, packed with geothermal activity, world-class beaches, and vibrant cities. It is a great place to start!
Whether you have a quick five days or a full two weeks, this guide provides the best routes for a flexible North Island itinerary that can be enjoyed year-round. In the summer, it’s all about the white sand beaches and hiking; in the winter, the hiking boots get swapped for skis on the slopes of Mt. Ruapehu. The North Island is ideal for all of these!
But if you have longer, you are in luck too. These itineraries are point-to-point. So you can spend all your time in New Zealand on the North Island or combine one of these itineraries with a visit to the South Island.
Ready? Grab your keys, stock up on snacks, and let’s hit the road.
- The Essentials
Getting Around
Best Time of Year? - North Island Itinerary Options
5-Day North Island Itinerary
7-Day North Island Itinerary
10-Day North Island Itinerary
14-Day North Island Itinerary - Seasonal Considerations
- Accommodation
- Final Pro-Tips for Your Journey
- More About Travel in New Zealand
PART I: The Essentials
These are our recommended North Island itinerary options – from a family of proud New Zealanders(!) – filled with all our favourite places to see, tips for transport, culture, FOOD to try plus what we think are the top things to do in Northland, Auckland, Rotorua, Taupō and Wellington, New Zealand.
Getting Around in New Zealand
To truly see the North Island, you need to rent a car or a campervan. Public transport between regions (like InterCity buses) exists but won’t get you to the remote trailheads, the hidden waterfalls, or the best roadside fish-and-chip spots.
This gives you the freedom to travel at your own pace and allows you to get to some more remote locations.
- Campervan vs. Car: A campervan offers the ultimate flexibility—waking up to a sunrise at a DOC (Department of Conservation) campsite is a quintessential Kiwi experience. However, if you prefer a hot shower and a real bed every night, a car and hotel/motel combo works perfectly too.
- Driving Tips: Remember, we drive on the left side of the road. New Zealand roads are often narrow, winding, and can be hilly. Allow more time for travel than Google Maps suggests!
Best Time of Year?
These itineraries can be done all year. In the winter months, you can go skiing instead of hiking. But do pack clothes for different temperatures at all times of the year. New Zealand is famously known for its ‘four seasons in one day’!
Food: The Kiwi Staples
You haven’t truly been to New Zealand until you’ve tried:
- Fish and Chips: The gold standard of Kiwi takeaway. Best eaten on the beach, out of newspaper, with a side of “L&P” (Lemon & Paeroa—a world-famous-in-NZ soda).
- The Humble Meat Pie: Found in every local bakery. Look for “Mince and Cheese” or “Steak and Mushroom.” A “gourmet” pie from a small-town bakery is often the highlight of a road trip. (Try ‘The Baker’ in Tirau!).
- Hāngī: Food cooked in an earth oven—a traditional Māori method. The steam and heat from the earth result in incredibly tender meat and smoky, earthy root vegetables (kūmara).
- Pavlova: A meringue-based dessert topped with cream and fresh fruit (kiwifruit is the classic choice). Just don’t tell an Australian—we still claim it as ours!
Māori Culture: Manaakitanga and Te Ao Māori
Experiencing Māori culture in New Zealand offers a deep connection to the nation’s indigenous heritage, revealing a holistic worldview, rich traditions (like the powerful haka and storytelling), and a profound link to the land. It is an important part of any trip to New Zealand and the great news is that on this North Island itinerary, Northland and Rotorua are two of the best places in the country to learn about Māori culture.
- Te Tiriti o Waitangi: The Treaty of Waitangi is New Zealand’s founding document. Understanding the relationship between Māori and the Crown is essential to understanding the country.
- Language: Take the time to learn a few words of Te Reo Māori. Kia Ora (Hello), Kai (Food), and Aotearoa (Land of the Long White Cloud) are great places to start.
- Visit Waitangi in the Bay of Islands: For an authentic Māori experience, watch a cultural performance and visit the Waitangi Treaty Grounds from Paihia.
- Try Hāngī: If you get the chance, take part in the hāngī, a traditional Māori meal. The hāngī is traditionally cooked Māori food. Chicken, meat and kumara are cooked in an earth oven and then served in a buffet.
- Māori Heritage: The North Island is the best place to experience Māori culture. In Rotorua and Northland, you will find Marae (meeting houses) and can learn about Tikanga (customs).
- Learn about Manaakitanga: This is the Māori word for hospitality and care. You will find Kiwis to be incredibly welcoming and eager to share their ‘backyard’ with you.
PART II: New Zealand North Island Itinerary Suggestions
Alright, let’s get into it. Here are the links to four different North Island itinerary options. They are each detailed below with different routes, highlights, tips and suggestions for accommodation in each location.
- 5-Day North Island: Auckland, Bay of Islands
- 7-Day North Island: Auckland, Bay of Islands, Cape Reinga, West Coast
- 10-Day North Island: Auckland, Tauranga & Mt Maunganui, Rotorua, Taupō
- 14-Day North Island: Auckland, Paihia, Cape Reinga, Rotorua, Taupō, Tongariro, Wellington
#1. The 5-Day North Island Itinerary – Auckland & Bay of Islands
Best For: Travelers on a tight schedule, weekend warriors, or those who want a ‘taster’ of New Zealand’s biggest city and its historic northern cradle.
I’m somewhat bias – but this is an awesome option for 5-days in the North Island. Northland is where I am from! I grew up in Paihia and the Bay of Islands so can recommend this slightly more off-the-beaten-track route for a short but brilliant North Island itinerary 🙂
- Highlights: The Auckland skyline, the Hundertwasser architecture, and the birthplace of the nation.
- Route: Auckland → Kawakawa → Paihia/Waitangi → Russell → Auckland.
5-Day North Island Itinerary
- Day 1-2: Auckland
- Day 3: Kawakawa & Paihia
- Day 4: Waitangi & Russell
- Day 5: Return to Auckland
Day 1-2: Auckland
The “City of Sails” is situated on an isthmus between two harbours and built atop 53 dormant volcanic cones. It is a great starting place (and obviously where our biggest international airport is). Wander Queen Street and get a tour up the Sky Tower for epic views of the city and harbour.
- Mount Eden (Maungawhau): Hike to the summit of this dormant volcano for 360-degree views of the city and its emerald-green craters.
- Sky Tower: Take a tour up our tallest building!
- Waiheke Island: Take a 40-minute ferry ride for a day of vineyard hopping. The island is world-renowned for its Syrah and stunning coastal walks.
- Viaduct Harbour: Explore the waterfront, enjoy a meal at one of the upscale restaurants, and see why Auckland is the yachting capital of the world.
Day 3: Kawakawa & Paihia
Head north (approx. 3.5 hours) to the ‘Winterless North’. On the way, stop at Kawakawa to see the famous Hundertwasser Toilets—the most artistic place you’ll ever take a break.
This is where I am from in New Zealand and I can’t help but share the highlights to make sure you get the most out of your time up here!
- Hundertwasser Toilets (Kawakawa): It’s the only public toilet in the world that is a certified tourist attraction. Designed by Austrian artist Friedensreich Hundertwasser, it’s a mosaic masterpiece.
- Hole in the Rock Cruise: From Paihia, head out into the Bay of Islands to see dolphins and, if conditions allow, steer right through the iconic rock archway.
- Paihia Beach: Relax on the golden sands or grab a kayak to explore the nearby mangrove forests.
- Paihia Wharf: Enjoy dinner overlooking the bay as the sun sets over the 144 islands.
- Fish & Chips: Get takeaway fresh Fish & Chips and sit on the beach. It’s a must!
Day 4: Waitangi & Russell
Waitangi is where the founding document of New Zealand was signed. This is a great introduction to Māori culture in New Zealand. Take a guided tour to understand the complex history between the British Crown and Māori chiefs.
Next, one of our favourite things to do in Paihia when we go up to visit my Mum is to take the ferry across to Russell. It is beautiful to wander during the day. But it really is particularly stunning in the late afternoon with the sun setting over the beach and town on the waterfront.
- Waitangi Treaty Grounds: This is New Zealand’s most important historic site. See the Te Toki-a-Tapiri (the great war canoe) and stand on the spot where the Treaty was signed in 1840.
- Russell (Passenger Ferry): Take the short ferry from Paihia to Russell. Once the “Hell Hole of the Pacific,” it’s now a quaint, romantic village. Visit Christ Church, the oldest existing church in NZ.
- Flagstaff Hill: Walk up for a panoramic view of the 144 islands that make up the bay.
Day 5: Return to Auckland
Drive back south, perhaps stopping at Whangārei Falls for a quick dip or a photo op. Use this evening to relax and enjoy the Auckland food scene.
#2. The 7-Day North Island Itinerary – Auckland, Bay of Islands & Cape Reinga
Best For: Families, road-trip enthusiasts, and those who want to see the very tip of the country where the spirits depart.
- Highlights: Historic (for New Zealand) stone buildings, Waitangi Treaty Grounds, Māori culture, sandboarding, and the spiritual meeting of two oceans (the most northern tip of New Zealand!).
- Route: Auckland → Paihia → Kerikeri → Cape Reinga → West Coast → Waiheke Island & Auckland.
7-Day North Island Itinerary
- Day 1: Arrive in Auckland
- Day 2: Drive to the Bay of Islands (Paihia)
- Day 3: Russell & Opua
- Day 4: Day Trip to Cape Reinga
- Day 5: Return to Auckland
- Day 6: Waiheke Island
- Day 7: Auckland Farewell
Day 1: Auckland
As above, settle in and enjoy the first day in Auckland.
Day 2: Paihia
Drive north to Paihia and the Bay of Islands. Start early and visit Waitangi and the Treaty Grounds in the afternoon.
Day 3: Kerikeri
Just a short hop from Paihia, Kerikeri is rich in history and horticulture.
- The Stone Store & Kemp House: These are the oldest standing buildings in New Zealand. Explore the museum and the old-world shop inside.
- Rainbow Falls: A stunning 27-meter waterfall accessible via a short, easy walk through native bush.
- The Parrot Place: A great family stop to see and interact with exotic birds in a beautiful garden setting.
Day 4: Cape Reinga
This is a long day trip from Paihia, but it is the crown jewel of the North.
- The Lighthouse: Walk the path to the iconic lighthouse where you can literally see the Tasman Sea and the Pacific Ocean colliding in a turbulent, swirling white-water line.
- Te Paki Sand Dunes: Rent a sandboard and fly down these massive, desert-like dunes. It’s a workout to climb up, but the ride down is exhilarating.
- Mangonui Fish Shop: This is legendary. Built over the water, they serve the freshest fish in the country. Order the snapper and chips—you won’t regret it.
- Spiritual Significance: Learn about the Te Reinga Wairua—the leaping-off place for spirits on their journey back to the ancestral homeland of Hawaiki.
Day 5: Return to Auckland
Take a different route back, perhaps via the Hokianga Harbour to see Tāne Mahuta, the ‘Lord of the Forest’ — a giant Kauri tree that is over 2,000 years old.
- Exploring Ponsonby or Parnell: Back in Auckland, explore these trendy suburbs for great boutique shopping and world-class coffee.
- Sky Tower: Go up the Sky Tower in the afternoon if you haven’t yet!
Day 6: Waiheke Island
This is a unique experience in New Zealand and is a great option for foodies and wine lovers. Take the 40-minute passenger ferry from downtown Auckland. Waiheke is a paradise of vineyards, olive groves, and white sand beaches.
- Wine Tasting: Visit world-famous vineyards like Mudbrick or Cable Bay for lunch and a glass of local Syrah overlooking the ocean.
- Oneroa Beach: A beautiful spot for a swim or a walk along the cliffside trails.
- EcoZip Adventures: For a different perspective, zipline over the forest with views of the Hauraki Gulf.
Day 7: Auckland Farewell
Spend your final day soaking in the city’s culture before your flight.
- Auckland War Memorial Museum: Located in the beautiful Auckland Domain, this museum offers the best Māori cultural performances and a deep dive into NZ’s natural and military history.
- Westhaven Marina: Walk along the promenade for one last look at the ‘City of Sails’ before you head to the airport.
#3. The 10-Day North Island Itinerary – Waitomo, Thermal Highway, Rotorua, Taupō, Auckland
Best For: Adrenaline junkies, culture seekers, nature lovers – and fans of The Lord of the Rings.
- Highlights: Waitomo Caves, surfing at the Mount, geysers in Rotorua, and the massive Lake Taupō.
- Route: Auckland → Waitomo → Tauranga → Rotorua → Taupō → Auckland.
10-Day North Island Itinerary
- Day 1: Arrive in Auckland
- Day 2: Waitomo Glowworm Caves & Tauranga
- Day 3-4: Tauranga & Mt Maunganui
- Day 5-6: Rotorua
- Day 7-8: Taupō
- Day 9-10: Return to Auckland
Day 1: Auckland
As above, settle in and enjoy the first day in Auckland.
Day 2: Waitomo Glowworm Caves
In the morning, make the drive to Waitomo (200km, 2.5 hours). This limestone labyrinth is world-famous for its luminous inhabitants and offers several ways to explore.
We did both the Ruakuri Cave Tour and Black Water Rafting at the Waitomo Glowworm Caves and highly recommend!
- Waitomo Glowworm Caves: This is the most popular choice for a quick visit. These tours run all day, lasting 45-60 minutes, and include a silent boat ride under a ‘galaxy’ of glowworms. Note that photography is not allowed here.
- Ruakuri Cave: Located just down the road, this 1.5-hour guided tour is spectacular. Photography is permitted here, though it’s a challenge in the near-darkness! We did this tour and highly recommend it for the incredible formations and spiral entrance.
- Black Water Rafting: For the ultimate adventure, try floating through the cave systems on an inner tube. Harry and Gavin did this and absolutely loved the thrill of navigating the underground rivers.
The Glowworm Caves are a totally unique experience and a cool addition to this North Island itinerary.
Or – alternatively you can add Matamata into this day of the 10-Day North Island Itinerary and visit Hobbiton if you are a Lord of the Rings fan! It is on your way south from Auckland towards Tauranga and/or Rotorua.
Drive onwards to Tauranga (150km, 2 hours). Sleep in Tauranga.
Day 3-4: Tauranga & Mt Maunganui
Tauranga and the iconic Mt Maunganui serve as the sun-drenched capital of the Bay of Plenty. Here there are white sand beaches alongside a vibrant urban lifestyle. This region is a favourite for both relaxation and adventure, offering a coastal vibe that is hard to beat anywhere else in Aotearoa.
- Mount Maunganui (Mauao): Hike the 45-minute summit track. It’s the most popular walk in the region for a reason—the views of the coastline are unparalleled.
- Main Beach Surf: Hire a board or take a lesson. The surf here is world-class but accessible for beginners.
- Mount Hot Pools: After your hike, soak in the saltwater hot pools at the base of the mountain.
Day 5-6: Rotorua
For travellers from around the world, Rotorua is most famous for its rich Māori culture as well as the chance to experience some of New Zealand’s famous adventure activities. Plus, Rotorua is famous for its incredible geothermal activity – and its ‘sulphur’ scent(!).
See our detailed guide of Things To Do In Rotorua and recommended places where to stay.
- Te Puia: Home to the Pōhutu Geyser, which erupts up to 20 times a day. You can also see Māori carvers and weavers at work and visit the Kiwi bird sanctuary.
- Redwoods Treewalk: Walk across suspension bridges high above the forest floor. It’s especially magical at night when the David Trubridge lanterns are lit.
- Wai-O-Tapu: Drive slightly south to see the “Champagne Pool” and the neon-green “Devil’s Bath.”
- Rotorua Canopy Tours: Get some of Rotorua’s famous adrenaline rush taking a treetop guided walk!
Day 7-8: Taupō
Spend two days in Taupō.
Lake Taupō is an inland playground that perfectly balances high-octane adventure with serene natural wonders. The incredible Huka Falls can be viewed from a platform. So whether you’re seeking the adrenaline of a freefall or the quiet mist of a geothermal spring, this massive crater lake has an experience for every pace.
- The Māori Rock Carvings: Only accessible by boat or kayak, these massive carvings at Mine Bay are a stunning modern tribute to Māori heritage. Taking a cruise across the lake is the best way to see them up close.
- Huka Falls & The Waikato River: Witness the raw power of Huka Falls, where 220,000 litres of water blast over an 11-meter drop every second. For a closer look, take a jet boat ride on the Waikato River to feel the spray and see the falls from the water.
- Relax & Rejuvenate: After a day of exploring, unwind in one of Taupō’s many natural hot water spas or thermal pools—a quintessential central plateau experience.
- Adrenaline & Action: Taupō is the skydiving capital of the world! If falling from a plane isn’t for you, there’s also bungy jumping, world-class mountain biking trails through the forests, and plenty of fishing on the lake.
#4. The 14-Day North Island Itinerary – Auckland, Northland, Rotorua, Taupō, Tongariro, Wellington
Best For: Slow travellers, retirees, or families who want to see it all—from the tropical north to the artistic southern capital.
- Highlights: All the above plus the “most beautiful one-day walk in the world” and the “coolest little capital.”
- Route: Auckland → Paihia → Cape Reinga → Rotorua → Taupō → Tongariro → Wellington.
14-Day North Island Itinerary
- Day 1-3: Auckland & Waiheke Island
- Day 4-5: Waitomo Glowworm Caves
- Day 6-7: Rotorua
- Day 8-9: Taupō
- Day 10-11: Tongariro National Park
- Day 12-14: Wellington
Day 1-3: Auckland & Waiheke Island
As above, arrive and settle in. Enjoy the first day out exploring in Auckland. Walk up Mount Eden (Maungawhau), visit the Auckland Museum and go up the Sky Tower for epic views.
Take the ferry to Waiheke Island on Day 3 and make the most of beautiful beaches and famous vineyards.
Day 4-5: Waitomo Glowworm Caves
Make the drive to Waitomo (200km, 2.5 hours) as above on Day 2 of the 10-day itinerary. But after an incredible tour and Black Water Rafting, stay at the Waitomo Caves Homestead.
Make the journey south through the Waikato on Day 5 and stop off at the beautiful Putaruru Blue Springs on the way to Rotorua.
Day 6-7: Rotorua
Follow day 5-6 in the 10-Day North Island Itinerary above.
Day 8-9: Taupō
Follow day 7-8 in the 10-Day North Island Itinerary above.
Day 10-11: Tongariro National Park
The Tongariro National Park is New Zealand’s oldest national park and a dual World Heritage site. It is most famous for the Tongariro Alpine Crossing. This is New Zealand’s most renowned hike. It is often called the best day hike in New Zealand, and one of the best in the world.
- Tongariro Alpine Crossing (Summer): This is 19.4km day hike past emerald lakes, active craters, and ancient lava flows. It is physically demanding – but life-changing!
- Mount Ruapehu (Winter): Trade the hiking boots for skis or a snowboard. Turoa and Whakapapa are the largest ski fields in the country, situated on an active volcano!
- Taranaki Falls: A brilliant two-hour loop walk for those who want the mountain views without the 8-hour commitment of the Crossing.
Day 12-14: Wellington
The “Windy City” is famous for its coffee, craft beer, and creative soul. Enjoy the last two days of this North Island itinerary making the most of the capital of New Zealand.
- Te Papa Tongarewa: The National Museum of New Zealand. It’s interactive, free, and incredibly deep. Don’t miss the “Gallipoli” exhibit.
- Weta Workshop: Go behind the scenes of The Lord of the Rings and Avatar. See how the props, costumes, and creatures are made.
- Wellington Cable Car: Ride from Lambton Quay up to the Botanic Gardens for a classic view of the harbor.
Seasonal Considerations
- Summer (Dec–Feb): High season. Perfect for swimming and the Tongariro Crossing. Beaches will be busy, so book your campervan and campsites months in advance.
- Autumn (March–May): Settled weather and fewer crowds. The colours in the central North Island are stunning.
- Winter (June–August): Ski season! Rotorua and Taupō remain great due to the hot pools, and the Tongariro Alpine Crossing requires professional guides and alpine gear (crampons/ice axes).
- Spring (Sept–Nov): Waterfalls are at their peak flow. Be prepared for ‘four seasons in one day’ — the weather can be temperamental.
PART VI: Accommodation
These are the hotels, resorts and guesthouses that we recommend for your North Island itinerary.
Auckland Accommodation
In Auckland, for convenience, stay in Auckland CBD, Britomart, or Viaduct Harbour for city access, dining, and harbour views. For trendy vibes, try Ponsonby or Parnell. These areas are known for boutiques and cafes.
If you have more time, explore local life in Grey Lynn, or head to the beaches like Mission Bay (cityside) or Piha (west coast) for coastal experiences. Auckland has it all with options ranging from luxury hotels (Cordis, Sofitel) to budget stays and unique B&Bs.
- Luxury: Cordis, Sofitel Auckland Viaduct Harbour, The Grand by SkyCity, Park Hyatt.
- Mid-Range-Boutique: QT Auckland, M Social, Adina Apartment Hotel Britomart, Rydges.
- Budget–Convenient: Travelodge, Ibis Budget, Lylo.
Paihia Accommodation
These are the hotels and guesthouses in Paihia that we recommend.
- For Waterfront Convenience: Motels like Bounty Motel or Breakwater Motel offer great value and walkability to shops and ferries.
- For Resorts & Views: Paihia Beach Resort & Spa provides beachfront luxury, while Scenic Hotel Bay of Islands is a popular choice.
- For Budget & Families: Paihia TOP 10 Holiday Park and Bay of Islands Holiday Park offer cabins, powered sites, and communal facilities.
- For Hostels: Haka Lodge Paihia is a great option for social travellers.
Rotorua Accommodation
There is a huge range of accommodation in Rotorua, from budget motels to luxury lodges, mostly concentrated around the lakefront and the main town area. Here are our top picks:
- Rydges Rotorua: We absolutely loved our stay here! The location is unbeatable, offering stunning views over the thermal valley. It’s a fantastic choice for families, featuring a great swimming pool, hot tubs, and a dedicated kids’ Play Zone. Their in-house restaurant also puts on a seriously delicious buffet for both breakfast and dinner.
- JetPark Hotel Rotorua: Another stellar family-friendly option. They often have amazing deals where kids stay and dine for free with a paying adult, which is a massive win for the travel budget.
- Kings on Peace: If you’re looking for quality, this is one of the top-reviewed properties on Booking.com for the area—super clean and modern.
- Gemini Lodge: Great for larger groups or families who want a bit more space, offering multi-bedroom chalets that are really well set up.
- Fairway Cottages: Perfect if you prefer to be slightly out of the main hustle; they have lovely 2-bedroom apartments that offer a bit of peace and quiet.
Taupo Accommodation
Taupo has a bunch of diverse stays from ultra-luxurious lodges and resorts, mid-range options and family motels and budget-friendly hostels.
- Luxury: Huka Lodge, Hilton Lake Taupo, Lake Taupo Lodge
- Mid-Range & Resorts: Taupo DeBretts Spa Resort, Gables Lakefront Resort, Millennium Resort Manuels
- Budget & Backpackers: Haka House, Silver Fern Lodge, Camellia Court Family Motel.
Wellington Accommodation
Wellington offers diverse stays, from luxury art-focused stays and grand options, to central mid-range hotels. Budget travellers can find cool hostels like Nomads Capital, The Cambridge, and Hotel Waterloo & Backpackers, plus budget hotels like ibis or Trinity Hotel, all providing great access to the city’s vibe.
- Luxury: InterContinental Wellington, QT Wellington, Sofitel Wellington Hotel.
- Mid-Range: Mövenpick Hotel Wellington, Atura Hotel, Copthorne Hotel, Distinction Wellington Century City Hotel.
- Budget: ibis Wellington, Trinity Hotel, WQ Hotel.
- Backpacker: Nomads Capital Backpackers, The Dwellington, The Cambridge Hotel & Backpackers.
Final Pro-Tips for Your Journey
- Freedom Camping: New Zealand has strict rules about where you can park overnight. Use apps like CamperMate or Rankers to find legal spots. Always leave no trace.
- Connectivity: Buy a local SIM card (Spark or One NZ). Mobile signal can be patchy in remote areas like Cape Reinga or the Tongariro National Park, so download your maps for offline use.
- Check the Weather: New Zealand weather is famously “four seasons in one day.” Even in summer, bring a rain jacket and a warm fleece.
- Sun Protection: The NZ sun is incredibly harsh due to a thin ozone layer. Wear a hat and high-SPF sunscreen even on cloudy days.
- Book Ahead: If traveling in the peak summer months (December–February), campsites and rental cars book out months in advance.
Choosing a North Island Itinerary
No matter which route you choose, the North Island will leave you with a camera roll full of memories and a deep appreciation for the unique spirit of Aotearoa. Enjoy the ride!
More About Travel in New Zealand
- Franz Josef Or Fox Glacier?
- Family Friendly Walks In Franz Josef.
- Putaruru Blue Springs South Waikato.
- Wairere Falls Walk Near Matamata.
- 5 Things To Do In Russell Bay Of Islands.
- Visiting Milford Sound In Winter.
- Hooker Valley Track Mt Cook.
- Hiking Roys Peak Track In Wanaka With Kids.
Travel Planning for New Zealand & Beyond
These are the companies we use and can recommend for planning and booking travel.
- Booking.com – The best all-around accommodation booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates.
- 12GoAsia – Book trains anywhere in Asia.
- Skyscanner– This is by far our favourite flight search engine. They are able to search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites often miss. We book all our flights through Skyscanner.
- GetYourGuide– Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions offered all around the world including everything from walking tours, adventure ticket, local tours and more!
- SafetyWing – A global travel insurance that covers people from all over the world while outside their home country. You can buy it short or longterm; and even if you are out of the country.
- World Nomads – Travel insurance tailored for longterm travel and nomads (including those who have already left home). Make sure you have insurance before travel anywhere in the world!