avg user
rating
Before you read any further, take a moment, close your eyes and imagine yourself in New Zealand. What does your dream journey look like? Are you wandering through rainforests? Stargazing? Sailing into the sunset? Or enjoying picnics on secluded beaches, just the two of you?
See New Zealand through the eyes of the locals.
Astounding locations, unique small-scale accommodations and genuine Kiwi hospitality. Stay with locals, listen to their passionate stories about New Zealand and go to places you would never find in any guidebook.
Our local knowledge makes the difference.
Sit down, have a chat and plan your dream holiday together with us. We design personalised holidays that suit your interests. Our travel specialists know the country like no other because they are native Kiwi or have lived, worked and travelled there. 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 guests
- 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?
Travel to New Zealand at any time of the year. During the shoulder seasons, spring and autumn, the temperatures are ideal for enjoying the outdoors. What kind of activities do you have on your bucket list? Which places have you always dreamed of visiting? We can advise you on the best travel time that matches your interests.
How long do I need in New Zealand?
New Zealand isn’t a big country, therefore you don’t have to travel far to see new and different things. We recommend you to travel at a relaxed pace, for at least three weeks. You can visit one of the islands in great detail or see a few places on both the North and the South Island. The more time you have, the more great things you can see and all at a relaxed pace, no need to rush from highlight to highlight.
What can I see and do?
Snow-capped mountains, deserted white sandy beaches to ancient rainforest, that you can’t find anywhere else in the world. New Zealand is a mecca of things to see and do and you don't need to travel far to experience them. Kayak through pure wilderness in a double kayak. Go horse trekking over golden beaches. Soak in hot springs. Climb a mountain. We have carefully selected environmentally-friendly and small-scale activities, from easy-going, to active, and on to adventurous.
Where can I stay?
Experience the real New Zealand in our carefully selected accommodations. Stay with locals and enjoy genuine, friendly hospitality. A quaint cottage nestled between the mountains. A villa overlooking a deserted beach. A lakeside eco-lodge. Glamping in the heart of nature with an outdoor hot tub. Take a look at a selection of our accommodation for couples, 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 is the ultimate road trip destination. A rental car gives you the flexibility to drive all corners of the country, at a relaxed pace. Travel to places that most tourists don't visit. With every turn of the road, New Zealand’s landscape changes. There is so much to see, you will frequently want to stop, take photos and enjoy the spectacular views.
Flying to New Zealand
You may have many questions about flying to the other side of the world. And, 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. With A-brand airlines that offer the highest comfort, service and the best flying schedules. 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.
Travel experiences
Odette and Dieter in New Zealand
What nature-lover doesn’t dream of a journey to the other side of the world? After a quick search online, ‘A… read more
10 of New Zealand’s best food & wine regions
New Zealand is renowned for being a nature wonderland, having hospitable locals and the Maori culture. However,… read more
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 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 for two people, 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