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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 wandering through rainforests?
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. We understand that you each have individual needs, and we will plan your trip accordingly.
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. We have carefully selected small-scale accommodations and activities in extraordinary locations.
"We are an independent, owner-operated travel specialist, focused on ensuring that every group of friends has their best possible journey to New Zealand".
Andrew Morten, Founder
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
When 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 of you and your friends.
September to November - Spring is the perfect time to explore the outdoors. There is still a chance of rain but the days are getting warmer. Flowers are blooming and newborn animals are at their cutest. Average daytime temperature: 18 °C.
December to February - Locals and visitors are making the most of the sunny days during summer. This is the busiest season and we recommend travelling at a different time. Average daytime temperature: 23 °C.
March to May - Autumn is our favourite season to travel New Zealand. Be welcomed with stable temperatures, fewer crowds and better deals. Average daytime temperature: 19 °C.
June to August - Do you love to spend time up the mountain? Winter is the perfect time for skiers and snowboarders. You will find the best mountains in the South Island. Average daytime temperature: 14 °C.
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. Are you travelling for two to three weeks? It is possible to visit one island or take a domestic flight to see a few regions per island.
In three to five weeks, you can travel both islands but you will need to make the choice of which regions to visit. If you have more than five weeks, you have the flexibility to see all corners of the country. Be inspired by some of our favourite travel routes for friends.
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 to adventurous.
Where can I stay?
The natural beauty and hospitality of New Zealand is 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!
An exclusive lodge at the edge of Aoraki Mount Cook National Park. A beachside villa. A wilderness lodge, situated on a 4000-acre sheep farm and nature reserve. A quirky bed and breakfast. Take a look at a selection of our favourite 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. Whether you prefer a fuel-efficient compact SUV, a spacious large SUV or maybe there are days you need two cars? We can arrange it.
Flying to New Zealand
You may have many questions about flying to the other side of the world. We will ensure that you travel to Australia in the most pleasurable way possible. With A-brand airlines that offer the highest comfort, service and the best flying schedules.
Would you like to explore Hong Kong, Singapore or Bali? Arrive in New Zealand refreshed after a relaxing stopover. A comfortable flying experience for you and your friends.
Suggested journeys
Whilst your holiday will be designed just for you, here you can find a number of ideas and suggestions to give you some ideas of what’s possible. There are various themes with suggested itineraries ranging from 3 weeks. You can change accommodation comfort levels, add activities and flights or change your car to get an idea of prices whether you chose our comfortable holidays to our luxury holidays with all inclusions.
Do you have further questions?
As Australia and New Zealand travel specialists, we pride ourselves on providing you with personalised information and local knowledge. We can answer all of your questions in-depth when we sit down with you either in person or online.
But, in our 15 years of experience, we are often asked a few general questions from friends travelling together in New Zealand. If you have any further questions, feel free to contact us.
Blog
Should you visit the North Island or South Island?
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Is New Zealand your holiday destination this year? What a great idea! Do you already have an idea of which island… read more
Travel experiences
Inga and Friends in New Zealand
Dear A Journey Down Under, We have now been back in Germany for just over a week and we have been trying our best… read more
Tourism can be great for the environment, and, with us, you make a positive difference
It's about accentuating the positive and compensating the negative
Our sustainability actionsUseful facts
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.
All the things you love
and none of the things you don't
We offer carefully selected special accommodations, one-of-a-kind nature and culture experiences, a comfortable travel tempo, and all together in a well organised journey. We believe in service, quality advice and a personal approach.
