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Close your eyes and let your imagination run wild. What does your dream journey look like? Are you conquering New Zealand’s 10 ‘Great Walks’? Floating above the snowy-peaks of the Southern Alps in a hot air balloon? Waking up on board a boat to pure silence within a majestic national park? Or learning about the Maori culture?
New Zealand is full of untamed wilderness and unique experiences.
We know that a trip to New Zealand requires a great deal of planning and you will have many questions along the way. Leave it to us. We know how to create a well-organised holiday to New Zealand. Because we have done it ourselves. Stay with locals in spectacular locations, away from mass tourism. And see places you never knew existed.
We take the time to sit down and get to know you.
Because everybody is different and so is every trip that we plan. Whether you need extra space, separate cars or activities, we will plan everything in detail to create your dream holiday together with your friends. Please get in touch to discuss your wishes. We have lots of things that we can recommend from our first-hand local experience.
"We are an independent, owner-operated New Zealand travel specialist. I would like you to experience my home as I love it. Welcome"
Andrew Morten, Founder, and New Zealander
What do you get from us?
- A well-arranged holiday, designed just for you
- A travel tempo and driving distances that match your needs
- Small properties with locals who look after you as their guest
- Carefully recommended activities and experiences
- Ingrained sustainability in all facets of your holiday
- The benefits of 30 years experience, a focus on quality, and the advantages of an owner-operated travel company
Tourism can be great for the environment, and, with us, you make a positive difference
Let's accentuate the positive, reduce the negative and offset what's left
Sustainability in actionWhen is the best travel time?
New Zealand can be explored at any time of the year. What activities are on your bucket list? Which regions have you always wanted to visit? The best time to travel New Zealand completely depends on the interests. Our travel specialists can help you select the best time of year for you and your friends.
How long do I need in New Zealand?
The great thing about New Zealand is that you don’t have to travel far to see a lot. Within a few hours, you’ll find a completely different landscape. We recommend travelling for at least three weeks. This allows you to travel at a relaxed pace. Do you have more time? The longer you have, the more great things we can recommend for you to see and do.
What can I see and do?
Be charmed by New Zealand. From the snowy-peaks of the Southern Alps, mystical rainforests in the Far North to golden sand beaches in the Coromandel. Soak in steaming glacial waters. Go surfing. Hike to a remote alpine lake. Wander the ancient Waipoua Kauri forest. Sample wine on Waiheke Island. Discover vast underground cave systems. We have carefully selected environmentally-friendly and small-scale activities, from easy-going, active to adventurous.
Where can I stay?
The natural beauty and hospitality of New Zealand are best experienced when you stay with the locals. They’ll show you the most beautiful places. And local gems. Don’t be surprised if you’re invited to join them for a barbecue or three! Take a look at a selection of our small-scale accommodation for friends, from comfortable to luxury.
Ask travel expert, Ben
Would you like more information about your journey DownUnder? Ben is happy to answer any questions that you may have.
Get in touch
How do I travel around?
New Zealand’s ever-changing landscape is best explored by car. A rental car gives you the flexibility to travel where you want, whenever you want. The ultimate road trip with your best friends. You won’t need to travel far to see an array of diverse landscapes. Travel at a relaxed pace and see the country through the eyes of a local.
Flying to New Zealand
Comfort is key, whether you choose for Premium Economy or something even more comfortable. So is service, safety and environmental performance. As we are specialised only in Down Under, we can advise you based on our own personal knowledge, about the best way to travel to New Zealand and for the best fare. All of your flights are carbon neutral.
How comfortable would you like to fly?
Sample itineraries
Your holiday will be designed just for you, but to give you ideas of what’s possible, here you can find many suggestions. There are various themes with holidays from 3 to 7 weeks. You can change comfort levels, add activities and flights, or change your car to get an idea of prices. To start creating your best ever holiday, we suggest you contact us.
Why book with us?
We are New Zealand travel nerds. We believe small details lead to big differences. As locals, our aim is simple - to create with you, for you, your best holiday through New Zealand. When you get in touch, you will experience our level of expertise and service. We take the time to do everything properly, which is why we don't need a complaints department. Experience the difference.
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Frequently asked questions
Safety and ease of travel
New Zealand is a safe and secure country. New Zealanders are generally friendly, open-minded and helpful. This allows you the freedom to explore the country peacefully. But of course, it is important to take as much care as you would in any other country and keep yourself and your possessions safe.
New Zealand isn’t the largest country, making it the perfect destination for a self-drive holiday. You won’t need to travel for long periods to see big changes in the landscape. Take your time and enjoy the views.
Visa and passports
When travelling outside of Europe, there is a list of countries that require a visa, and New Zealand is part of that list. But, not to worry this process is quick and easy.
The NZeTA (New Zealand Electronic Authority) can be applied for via the New Zealand Immigration website or via the NZeTA app.
Please allow up to 72 hours for processing time. You will both also be required to have a passport that is valid for 6 months or more, to travel to New Zealand.
Culinary
New Zealand burst into the culinary scene with a fusion of local produce, innovation and flair. A multicultural country that blends flavours from all over the world. New Zealand has some of the best oysters in the world - Bluff oysters, and don’t forget to indulge in fresh whitebait fritters.
Kiwi’s love to invite friends and family over for a barbecue. Don’t be surprised if you receive an invite too! To blend in as a local, enjoy fish and chips with a side of tomato sauce or a mince and cheese pie is a popular choice.
Experience a traditional Maori Hangi, a process of cooking in a steamed pit with heated stones. Or are you more interested in wine? The top 5 wine regions are Marlborough, Hawke’s Bay, Central Otago, Gisborne and Canterbury. Soak up the romance on a world-class vineyard.
Cost of living and currency
The cost of living in New Zealand is slightly higher than in the United Kingdom but this can vary depending on the region. Petrol prices are around NZ$2 per litre. A cappuccino costs around NZ$4.50 and you can expect to pay anywhere between NZ$150 to NZ$450, for one night of accommodation, depending on comfort level. Lunch at a cafe is approximately $20 per person.
The official currency is the New Zealand Dollar. It is possible to pay by cash or card almost everywhere. Mastercard, Visa and American Express are widely accepted. You will find many ATM’s in banks, and in shopping malls or shopping streets. Banks are generally open Monday to Friday from 9.30 am to 4:30 pm.
Travel Guide
No matter what your level of travel experience is - Even if you have never travelled outside of Europe, we will provide you with everything you need. All the information, resources and guidance to ensure you have a fantastic holiday to New Zealand and Australia. We will adapt to your needs and travel experience accordingly. That’s one less thing to worry about!
Ask the locals
New Zealanders are renowned for being very friendly. However, they are also very helpful. Whether you need directions or if you're having trouble deciding where to go. So, if you ever need help along the way, just ask a local Kiwi. They are more than happy to help. And of course, they love to share a story (or three) too!
Your hosts are local experts with an abundance of information about the area to share with you. Ask them, they know their home better than anyone else. And they love to share their local knowledge with you so you can make the most of your time DownUnder.
More frequently asked questions
Small details lead to big differences. And specialist knowledge means we know which details need specific attention. But of course, to help you make your choices, you will have lots of questions. Here you can find answers to many of them.
All the things you love
and none of the things you don't
Our local knowledge makes the difference for your bespoke holiday through New Zealand or Australia. Your Journey Down Under starts here.
Contact us
We would love to discuss your dream journey