New Zealand is a fantastic holiday destination, especially for nature lovers and adventure seekers like hiking, bungee jumping, and skiing. The country is known for its stunning landscapes, from dramatic mountain ranges to serene beaches, vast farmlands, and dense forests. It's also the filming location for the "Lord of the Rings" trilogy, classic movies that add points to this magical country.
A few key facts to know: New Zealand is made up of two main islands, the North Island and South Island. English is the main language, and the currency is the New Zealand Dollar (NZD). The country enjoys a mild climate but can get chilly, especially in the southern regions.
If you’re a first timer, Auckland might suit you as New Zealand’s largest city, for urban experiences. Or Queenstown for adrenaline-pumping activities, Rotorua for Māori culture and geothermal wonders. Finally, Milford Sound for jaw-dropping fjords. The country’s diversity makes it ideal for various types of travellers, whether you want a relaxing beach holiday or an adventurous one.
As one of the most sought-after destinations in the world, New Zealand offers several public transportation options to help you get around the country comfortably. Here’s some recommendation:
Airports are available in all major cities in New Zealand as well as in many smaller towns, from Kaitaia in the Far North to Stewart Island in the south. Major airlines like Air New Zealand provide domestic flights, while smaller regional carriers such as Air Chathams, Barrier Air, and Sounds Air also operate. Domestic flights are usually preferable because it is easy to book, cover many areas of the country and save time.
As the largest long-distance bus network, InterCity Bus offers affordable travel between cities and towns across both the North and South Islands with plenty of scenic routes along the way. It also has flexible passes for hop-on, hop-off travel, making it convenient for exploring New Zealand at your own pace.
In New Zealand, there are three panoramic train rides that you can choose to get around this country comfortably. North Island, a day-long trip between Auckland and Wellington. South Island, from Picton to Christcurh. Finally, TranzAlpine crosses the Southern Alps on its journey between Christchurch and Greymouth.
You can take ferries to travel between North and South Island. It is also very much possible to take cars and campervans or motorhomes. The available ferries are great and usually have several scheduled sailings each day. So you don't need to worry about running out of tickets.
If you are a first timer, you might not want to miss visiting famous destinations in New Zealand to make it a fulfilling trip. Here is several recommendations you can consider:
Sky Tower is Auckland’s iconic landmark offering breathtaking 360-degree views of the city and surrounding areas. You can also try the SkyWalk or SkyJump for some adrenaline. While in Auckland, you should consider Waiheke Island, War Memorial Museum, Mount Eden, Viaduct Harbour and Auckland Zoo.
This is heaven for thrill seekers as Queenstown is the birthplace of commercial bungee jumping. You can try the iconic Kawarau Bridge jump or take a leap from the Nevis Bungy. Skydiving over Lake Wakatipu is also a heart-pounding experience with epic views. If not a thrill seeker, Queenstown also has wine tasting in Gibbston Valley. Visit vineyards for tastings or enjoy a scenic lunch in the beautiful wine country.
This classic cable car takes you from the city centre to the Botanic Gardens, offering fantastic views of the city and harbour along the way. When in Wellington, do not miss Te Papa Museum, Wellington Waterfront, Mount Victoria, Cuba Street and Weta Workshop Tour (a studio behind the special effects of Lord of the Rings and Avatar).
If you’re on a tight budget and want comfortable accommodation, here’s some best budget hotels in New Zealand to help make your dream holiday come true.
1. Dolphin Motel starts from RM 272.67
2. Riverside Lodge Paihia starts from RM 216.51
3. Whatuwhiwhi TOP 10 Holiday Park starts from RM 184.70
4. Russell - Orongo Bay Holiday Park starts from RM 184.05
5. Bavarian Motel starts from RM 273.38
6. Te Anau Lakeview Holiday Park & Motels starts from RM 130.25
7. North South Holiday Park starts from RM 212.43
8. Hotel Give - Hostel starts from RM 149.60
9. YHA Christchurch starts from RM 110.29
10. YHA Wellington City - Hostel starts from RM 111.83
New Zealand is a perfect destination for couples because with its low population density, there are many times it will make you feel like owning the world all by yourself. So, here’s some recommended best hotels in New Zealand for couples to consider:
1. Kamana Lakehouse starts from RM 1,020.23
2. Crowne Plaza Auckland, an IHG Hotel starts from RM 497.62
3. Marsden Viaduct Hotel starts from RM 511.82
4. Pullman Auckland Hotel & Apartments starts from RM 656.67
5. SkyCity Hotel starts from RM 450.80
6. Fable Christchurch starts from RM 669.17
7. Beachfront Hotel starts from RM 339.63
8. Copthorne Hotel Greymouth starts from RM 401.73
9. Sunset Motel starts from RM 299.93
10. Te Waonui Forest Retreat starts from RM 923,21
Taking your family to New Zealand to create the perfect and memorable memories together is such a great idea. Here’s some recommended best hotels in New Zealand for families to consider:
1. Carnmore Hotel Takapuna starts from RM 411.39
2. President Hotel starts from RM 451.48
3. The Grand by SkyCity starts from RM 649.44
4. Auckland City Hotel starts from RM 293.53
5. Holiday Inn Express And Suites Queenstown, an IHG Hotel starts from RM 770.28
6. Heritage Queenstown starts from RM 717.79
7. Swiss-Belresort Coronet Peak starts from RM 540.59
8. Hilton Queenstown Resort and Spa starts from RM 809.49
9. Riverside Hotel Marlborough starts from RM 469.08
10. Picton Yacht Club Hotel starts from RM 270.39
It is common for visitors want to stay in a scenic area when visiting New Zealand and here’s some recommendations to consider:
1. InterContinental Wellington, an IHG Hotel starts from RM 724.84
2. QT Queenstown starts from RM 1,331.28
3. Park Hyatt Auckland starts from RM 999.78
4. Cordis, Auckland by Langham Hospitality Group starts from RM 454.44
5. The Rees Hotel and Luxury Apartments starts from RM 1,124.75
Booking accommodation near an airport is common as it offers several conveniences including easy shuttle services, less travel stress, short stays and more. So, here’s some recommendations if you would like to be close to the airport:
1. Novotel Auckland Airport is 1 km from Auckland Domestic Airport
2. Sudima Christchurch Airport is 400 m from Christchurch International Airport
3. Auckland Airport Kiwi Hotel is 4.7 km from Auckland Airport
4. Copthorne Hotel & Apartments Queenstown Lakeview is 5.5 km from Queenstown Airport
5. Rydges Wellington Airport is 612 m from Wellington International Airport
If it’s your first time, here are top tips for finding the best hotel deals in New Zealand to ensure your plan is perfect and the trip goes smoothly.
When you book a hotel in advance, the price tends to be lower. Especially during peak seasons like holidays or festivals.
If you want to avoid crowds and increase in accommodation prices, consider booking off season. This peak season typically occurs during summer (December-February).
Check out newsletters for flash sales, special discounts or last minute deals on Traveloka from the app or subscribe with your email.
Some hotels partner with airlines or travel agencies to offer flight-hotel packages, which can save you money compared to booking separately.
The key to secure best hotel deals in New Zealand is also finding out affordables regions. They are Christchurch, Dunedin, Invercargill, Nelson, Tauranga and Palmerston North.
When it comes to securing the best travel deals, Traveloka simplifies the process like never before. Whether you’re searching for budget-friendly hotels in New Zealand or special flight packages, Traveloka offers unbeatable prices and flexible booking options.
New users can take advantage of the “JOMJALAN” coupon code for an extra discount of up to RM 250 on all travel products available through Traveloka.
Total Accommodation | 20 Properties |
Popular Region | Christchurch, Queenstown |
Popular Hotel | InterContinental Auckland by IHG, Rosewood Matakauri |