Why New Zealand Should Be on Your Itinerary When Visiting Australia

Considering a holiday to Australia? Your travel itinerary should undoubtedly include a detour to its breathtaking neighbor, New Zealand. Often overlooked, the ‘Land of the Long White Cloud’ packs an impressive punch for those who choose to step ashore.

Amidst New Zealand’s irresistible charm, lies a fascinating mix of vibrant culture, towering mountain ranges and unique wildlife. Their untouched landscapes, alongside the warmth of its people, are guaranteed to leave you spellbound.

To make the most of your journey, consider joining a group tour. Immerse yourself in both countries’ rich experiences without missing any memorable moments. Australia is just the beginning; make room for New Zealand on your itinerary!

Proximity to Australia

Even though New Zealand and Australia are separated by the Tasman Sea, they are relatively close neighbors—only about 2,500 km (1,553 miles) apart. 

Your flight from Australia will take approximately 4.56 hours, which is convenient for those eager to explore a new culture and country.

New Zealand, known as the “Land of the Long White Cloud,” is packed with incredible natural sights and cultural experiences that make it a perfect complement to your Australian travels.

• Auckland: Journey to Maungakiekie, a famed M?ori p? or fortified village. Discover more at Lonely Planet.
• Taupo: Witness the intense power and beauty of the Huka Falls, a must-see scenic destination.
• Fiordland & Southland: Explore unspoiled nature at the southernmost point of the country.
• Queenstown: Experience serene Lake Wakatipu, New Zealand’s third-largest lake.

No matter your interest—arts, food, history—or your age, there’s something for everyone. Its proximity and diversity make New Zealand an excellent choice when traveling from Australia.

Diverse Landscapes

New Zealand’s varied landscapes effortlessly amaze visitors. From the South Island’s alps, lakes, rivers, and ocean to the lush native bush, the country’s scenery is breathtakingly diverse.

Central North Island

Discover Lake Taupo and the UNESCO World Heritage site Tongariro National Park with its stunning volcanic features.

Northland Loop

The Northland loop introduces you to remote and stunning landscapes. Witness the meeting point of the Tasman Sea and Pacific Ocean at Cape Reinga.

Coromandel Peninsula

Experience coastal and bush landscapes on the Coromandel Peninsula, offering opportunities for various outdoor activities and enchanting drives.

Wellington to Rotorua

The journey from Wellington to Rotorua takes you through diverse landscapes, including the geothermal hotspot of Rotorua teeming with M?ori culture and outdoor activities.

Southern Alps

The Southern Alps—a majestic landscape epitomizing the South Island’s diversity—offer breathtaking views and hiking opportunities amid glaciers.

Adventurous Activities

New Zealand offers countless thrilling activities catering to all tastes. As the birthplace of commercial bungy jumping, it provides a unique chance to experience new heights.

Popular adventures include bungee jumping from sites like the Kawarau Bridge and Nevis Bungy, heli-skiing in remote alpine regions, canyoning through gorges and waterfalls, and jet boating in Queenstown or Whanganui. 

Other must-have experiences include ziplining through stunning landscapes, skydiving for adrenaline junkies, and the unique thrill of zorbing at OGO Rotorua.

Unique Wildlife

New Zealand’s diverse wildlife, much of it found nowhere else on Earth, offers unique experiences. Home to the kakapo, the world’s only flightless parrot, and the ancient tuatara reptile, the country provides opportunities to encounter rare species.

Embark on guided tours to spot elusive kiwis, visit penguin colonies like Otago Peninsula for yellow-eyed penguins, witness dolphins and whales in Kaikoura, or marvel at glowworms in the Waitomo Caves. 

For bird lovers, encounters with gannets at Cape Kidnappers and kea at Arthur’s Pass offer spectacular sightings.

Scenic Road Trips

Experience New Zealand through scenic road trips filled with breathtaking vistas. Start with the Milford Road to Milford Sound, drive the Great Coast Road for Tasman Sea views, explore Mount Cook Road for alpine scenery, or traverse Arthur’s Pass for limestone formations. Each route offers unique landscapes waiting to be discovered.

Road	Highlights	End Destination
The Great Coast Road	Tasman Sea views, Punakaiki Pancake Rocks	Greymouth
Mount Cook Road	Lake Pukaki, Tasman Valley views	Mount Cook Village
Arthur’s Pass	Otira Viaduct Lookout, Castle Hill’s limestone formations	West Coast
Glenorchy-Queenstown Road	Lake Wakatipu views, The Remarkables mountain range	Glenorchy/Paradise
New Zealand Scenic Roads Information*

Wine and Culinary Delights

New Zealand offers a diverse range of critically acclaimed wines, producing varieties from Chardonnay to Syrah in cool-climate regions. Journey through wine-growing areas across the North and South Islands, with Marlborough as the crowning jewel.

1. Marlborough: Home of iconic Sauvignon Blanc and celebrated for Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.
2. Central Otago: Specializes in Pinot Noir with touches of Chardonnay and Riesling.
3. Hawke’s Bay: Offers varieties such as Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Chardonnay.
4. Martinborough: Appreciated for refined Pinot Noir flavors.
5. Nelson: Renowned for Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, and Pinot Noir.

Other regions like Auckland, Waikato, Bay of Plenty, Gisborne, and Canterbury each offer unique wine varieties. 

Boutique production standards and an extended grape-growing season give New Zealand’s wines their unique flavors. Visit to taste these delights taking the global wine stage by storm.

Film and Literature Landmarks

Walk in the magical realm of Middle-earth at Hobbiton in Matamata, touring hobbit holes and iconic locations from the films. 

Explore cinematic landscapes like Milford Sound and Lake Pukaki, featured in The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit. Visit Taranaki, the backdrop for The Last Samurai, and relive cinematic moments amid stunning scenery.

Year-Round Travel Appeal

New Zealand offers a plethora of activities year-round. The high season brings buzzing ski spots like Queenstown and Wanaka, while shoulder seasons offer quieter yet wonderful experiences. Autumn provides warm days and beautiful foliage. 

Climate varies from subtropical in the North Island to cooler temperatures in the South Island’s alpine areas. Frequent showers contribute to lush landscapes, so pack a raincoat!

Flexible Itinerary Options

Traveling to New Zealand lets you design your trip your way. Begin in Auckland, travel to Rotorua for volcanic scenery and cultural experiences, and stop at Napier and Hawke’s Bay wineries en route to Wellington. After exploring Wellington’s sights, ferry to the South Island for mountain views. 

Discover Queen Charlotte Sound, enjoy Nelson’s laid-back vibe, and explore Abel Tasman and Golden Bay for sea kayaking and birdwatching.

Make It Happen!

Don’t just visit Australia, go the extra mile. New Zealand awaits with its stunning landscapes, thrilling activities and exquisite cuisine. Immerse yourself in its rich culture, dive into adventures, and create lasting memories. Make your journey truly unforgettable by adding New Zealand to your itinerary.