Discover New Zealand’s natural splendor on both of its islands by traveling across both North and South Islands. Enjoy bubbling geothermal pools, majestic peaks, dense forests and deep fjords as you make your journey across these magical landmasses.
Enjoy fresh, local cuisine–from sheep farms to vineyards–while learning about Maori culture and traditions from welcoming residents firsthand. Discover New Zealand highlights on this small group tour!
Wanaka
Wanaka, New Zealand’s gateway to the southern Alps, is an adventure haven. Hike to Roy’s Peak or mountain bike along its legendary trail or take a jet boat ride along Matukituki River for spectacular waterfalls and glacier-fed streams – there is truly something here for every traveller to enjoy!
Visit a high-country farm to witness how the region’s famous sheep herding industry operates, or stay at one of Wanaka Springs glamping tents for an immersive wilderness experience while cottages offer more comfortable yet rustic accommodation options.
Experience this region’s incredible vineyards first-hand during a full-day wine tasting tour with round-trip transport included for maximum pleasure – not to mention an amazing cheese platter provided!
Aoraki Mount Cook
At 12218 feet, Aoraki Mount Cook (known as “the cloud piercer”) stands as New Zealand’s tallest peak. Boasting 18 other mountains over 3,000 meters and ideal conditions for climbing and hiking adventures alike.
Climbers often choose the area as a basecamp for alpine pursuits, while non-climbers can enjoy its stunning scenery on short walks. A scenic helicopter tour that includes landing at Tasman Glacier is perhaps the best way to witness its majestic splendour.
Glentanner Park Centre in Mount Cook Village provides holiday park accommodations, outdoor adventure activities and the Hermitage Hotel which boasts breathtaking views of Aoraki Mount Cook from its barstool seating. In addition to staying at this renowned establishment, you may choose from among two campsites nearby – White Horse Hill Campground or Twizel Campground operated by DOC – depending on your preference and camping availability.
Village is the gateway to Aoraki Mount Cook National Park, New Zealand’s only International Dark Sky Reserve. Home to both Australasia’s highest mountain and glaciers; stunning Governors Bush Track is a one-hour loop through silver beech forest opening to breathtaking mountain views as well as playful Kea (bird species).
The Catlins
The Catlins region on New Zealand’s south coast is an idyllic naturalist’s dream, featuring lush rainforest and unspoiled beaches with abundant wildlife like Tui and Korimako birds, three-tier waterfalls, and incredible three-tier waterfalls.
Hikers also flock here en masse; its rugged coastline boasts some of the finest hiking and tramping terrain in New Zealand; you can experience this gorgeous region through guided tours. Peaks adorned with tall native rakau trees boast red flowering rata trees while picturesque coastal beaches can be found along its shoreline.
An adventurous solo traveler seeking to experience New Zealand’s natural wonders should consider visiting The Catlins. You can get there easily by renting a car from Dunedin or Invercargill or joining an organized tour, usually stopping at McLean Falls as well as iconic Nugget Point lighthouse and Curio Bay wildlife viewing area for seals, sea lions, penguins and sealions among many other things! Other highlights of The Catlins include Cathedral Caves, Jack’s Blowhole and Purakaunui Falls among many others!
Dunedin
New Zealand is an extremely safe country for solo travelers; however, you should still take some precautions when travelling alone here. These include:
At all times, make sure that when driving or participating in adventure sports it is safe and take every precaution necessary, such as packing your passport, health insurance policy details, travel documents and valuables. Road accidents are the leading cause of injuries and deaths in New Zealand; hiking and adventure sports activities pose additional risk; be sure to understand your abilities, prepare ahead and inform someone of your plans.
Dunedin is an excellent destination for solo travelers to experience beautiful Edwardian architecture and spot rare wildlife. The Royal Albatross Center offers visitors their only mainland spot to spot northern royal albatrosses while penguins and fur seals can often be seen swimming near its shoreline.
Visit the Otago Museum ($$) to explore its rich history, from Maori tribal culture and European explorers and settlers, as well as an impressive portrait collection from its aristocracy. If wine and food is your thing, add Hawkes Bay Wineries Trail ($$) to your itinerary as an enjoyable way to sample local wines while discovering historic wineries.
Christchurch
City of Tekapo in New Zealand’s second-largest city is an ideal travel destination for solo travelers, offering plenty of amenities and activities such as visiting Lake Tekapo’s Church of the Good Shepherd or stargazing at night, stargazing or strolling through its Icon Garden.
Are You Learning a Language in Christchurch? Join the Christchurch Polyglots and Language Learners Group’s events as an engaging way of meeting like-minded language enthusiasts while making new friends!
Other activities include visiting museums such as the International Antarctic Centre and Quake City (which explains what life was like following the 2011 earthquake), as well as The Remarkables where you can ski or snowboard for an adrenaline rush; Franz Josef and Fox glaciers located in Glacier Region can also be visited; taking a day trip out to Arthur’s Pass will reveal its dramatic landscape with waterfalls and forests.