At TravelEssence, we specialise in crafting custom-made holidays that take you off the beaten path and create memories to last a lifetime. We believe in connecting with the heart and soul of a place, introducing you to the locals who call it home. Engage in conversations with fascinating individuals who will share their stories, traditions, and way of life, leaving an indelible mark on your journey.
New Zealand is a paradise for solo travellers who would like to experience the great outdoors. With a focus on nature conservation and small-scale locally owned companies, we have personally found the best activities in New Zealand.
Hop aboard a traditional war canoe. Taste a traditional ‘hangi’. Spot the iconic Kiwi bird. Wander through ancient rainforests. Go Stargazing. Be mesmerized by flickering glowworms. At a relaxed pace, discover the local treasures.
Look inside our best easy-going activities for solo travellers
Fiordland National Park, New Zealand
Wake up to absolute calm and experience Doubtful Sound all to yourself
Otago Peninsula, New Zealand
Have a close encounter with New Zealand's rare wildlife
Waitomo, New Zealand
Go rafting and glow worm spotting
Coromandel, New Zealand
Enjoy a sky free of light pollution with the guidance of your host
Hokianga, New Zealand
Learn about Kauri trees and their connection to the Maori culture
Kaikoura, New Zealand
Have close encounters with cheeky and playful dusky dolphins
Stewart Island, New Zealand
The only place in the world to see kiwis during the day, in the wild
Bay of Islands, New Zealand
The perfect way to spend a day at the Bay of Islands
"One of my favourite regions has to be the Marlborough Sounds. It's a great alternative to the Abel Tasman region."
Kieran, Travel specialist
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Available for all your questions
Simply contact us for personal advice
No question is too crazy. Our experienced travel experts are available to assist you with your dream holiday to New Zealand.
Did you know?
New Zealand features in many scenes of the Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit films. You can visit Hobbiton in Matamata but there are also a lot of locations that can be visited free of charge. Many film locations can be found in the Otago region.
Best travel time
In New Zealand, the seasons are the opposite of Europe. We highly recommend travelling in shoulder seasons (spring and autumn), but this completely depends on your interests.Over the year the weather is temperate and the North Island is slightly warmer than the South Island. The West Coast is more rugged and often has more rain and wind compared to the more sheltered East Coast.
Travelling in spring offers plunging waterfalls, blooming flowers and newly born animals. With fewer crowds and mild temperatures. Do you love snow-sports? Winter would be a great time to travel to experience life up the mountain.
Autumn has stable temperatures, perfect for hiking and kayaking. Warm and inviting colours can be adored. The summer months are the busiest, with not only international visitors but also New Zealanders on their summer holidays. They love to spend time outdoors at lakes, beaches and in national parks. We recommend travelling outside of these months.
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Ready for the holiday of a lifetime?
Discover a world beyond ordinary
At TravelEssence, we specialise in crafting custom-made holidays that take you off the beaten path and create memories to last a lifetime. We believe in connecting with the heart and soul of a place, introducing you to the locals who call it home. Engage in conversations with fascinating individuals who will share their stories, traditions, and way of life, leaving an indelible mark on your journey.
Contact us
Questions? Speak to one of our specialists by phone Mon - Sat 0900 until 2100. You can discuss your travel plans in detail where and when it suits you, also in the evenings and on weekends on a no obligation basis.