New Zealand
Middle-earth Magic, Māori Culture & Epic Natural Beauty
Aotearoa Awaits – The Land of the Long White Cloud
New Zealand is one of those rare places where reality looks better than the postcards. You’ll hike past volcanoes, cruise through fjords, soak in hot springs, and meet locals so friendly they’ll leave a lasting impression. Whether you're chasing adrenaline in Queenstown, exploring Māori culture in Rotorua, or road-tripping across rolling green hills dotted with sheep, New Zealand invites you to slow down and truly connect - with nature, people, and yourself.
Made up of two main islands, the North and South Islands, each has its own magic. The North Island offers geothermal wonders and rich indigenous heritage, while the South Island is a symphony of alpine peaks, glaciers, and coastal beauty. Wherever you go, you’ll find a sense of peace, and a whole lot of awe.
Visa Requirements
UK passport holders must apply online for a New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) before travelling. It allows visits of up to 6 months, and is usually approved within 1–2 days. A small tourism levy is also required as part of the application.
Key Airports
- Auckland International Airport (AKL) – Main hub for international arrivals on the North Island.
- Christchurch International Airport (CHC) – Gateway to the South Island and its alpine adventures.
- Wellington Airport (WLG) – Perfect for exploring the capital and the central North Island.
Spoken Languages
English is the primary language, with Te Reo Māori also widely respected and used. You’ll often hear Māori greetings and cultural references, especially in museums, signage, and tourism.
Try these:
- Kia ora – Hello / Thank you / Cheers
- Haere mai – Welcome
- Aroha – Love
- Sweet as! – Awesome / Great
- No worries! – It's all good
- Chur – Thanks / Cool (Kiwi slang)
Kiwis (New Zealanders) are laid-back, helpful, and love a good yarn (chat).
Holidays to New Zealand
During the Summer
From December to February, summer is warm and pleasant with temperatures ranging from 20–30°C. It’s ideal for road trips, hiking, beach days, and outdoor adventures - plus long daylight hours!
During the Winter
From June to August, the South Island becomes a snowy paradise, especially around Queenstown and Wanaka, perfect for skiing and snowboarding. The North Island stays milder (10–15°C), great for hot springs and cultural exploration.
Top New Zealand Hot Spots
Cruise through the majestic Milford Sound, often called the "eighth wonder of the world." Visit Rotorua for bubbling mud pools, geysers, and a deep dive into Māori culture. And channel your inner hobbit at the Hobbiton Movie Set, where The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit were brought to life.
Queenstown – Adventure Capital of the World
Bungee jump, paraglide, jet boat, or just relax by Lake Wakatipu surrounded by the Southern Alps. Queenstown is pure adrenaline with postcard views.
Rotorua – Culture & Geothermal Wonders
Known for its steaming landscapes, Māori villages, and healing hot springs. Watch a traditional haka and taste a hangi meal cooked in the earth.
Fiordland National Park – Wild, Wet, and Wonderful
Home to Milford and Doubtful Sounds, where towering cliffs, waterfalls and rainforests collide. A boat cruise here is otherworldly.
Bay of Islands – Sun, Sand & Sailing
A subtropical paradise in the far north. Discover historic towns, go dolphin-watching, or sail between islands at your own pace.
Top Tips for Getting the Most Out of Your Holiday
- Hit the Open Road - New Zealand is made for road trips. Hire a car or campervan and explore scenic highways, charming small towns, and secret beaches. The journey is part of the adventure.
- Respect the Land & the Culture - Kiwis care deeply about their environment and heritage. Follow Leave No Trace principles, support local Māori-owned businesses, and always show respect at sacred sites (wāhi tapu).
- Don’t Skip the South Island’s Hidden Gems - Places like Aoraki / Mount Cook, the Catlins, or Abel Tasman National Park offer stunning experiences without the crowds. Go off the beaten path, you won’t regret it.
- Prepare for All Weather - New Zealand’s weather can change quickly - pack layers, waterproof gear, and don’t be fooled by a sunny morning!
Why You Should Go (And Go with Marhaban Travel)
New Zealand is a journey into nature, culture, and storybook scenery. It’s ideal for solo adventurers, couples, families, and anyone craving wide-open spaces and real connection. With activities from extreme sports to serene stargazing, it offers balance, beauty, and brilliance.
With Marhaban Travel, we’ll help you uncover the best of Aotearoa - from customised road trips and exclusive Māori cultural experiences to glacier hikes, luxury lodges, and hidden scenic gems. We make your New Zealand journey seamless, soulful, and full of unforgettable moments.
Aroha, adventure and unforgettable skies, New Zealand is calling.
