Kia Ora Aotearoa - Welcome to New Zealand
The ultimate roadtrip: From eternal ice to endless beaches. You can have it all in New Zealand
Would you like to see some volcanoes, go skiing on a glacier, take a walk through lush rainforest and relax on a sandy beach all in one week or maybe even in one day? It is possible – in New Zealand. The concentration of natural wonders will leave you flabbergasted. A well-planned round trip is the best way to explore the many faces of Kiwiland.
Most international travelers arrive in Auckland on the North Island of New Zealand. The highly recommended Kauri Cliffs Lodge is nestled on a hill near Matauri Bay, Northland, offering spectacular views of the Pacific Oceans. The luxurious guest cottages are immaculately and offer any comfort you might need after a long day exploring the area. Kauri Cliffs bask in an area of eternal summer and are perfect for many outdoor activities such as mountain biking, hiking, or simply sunbathing on a secluded beach. The temperatures are mild all year round, and the climate leans towards subtropical. Excellent conditions for the ancient kauri forests, you will find near Kauri Cliffs lodge. If you are a golfer, you might enjoy the Par 72 championship golf course. Fifteen holes view the Pacific Ocean, six of which are played alongside cliffs that plunge to the sea.
Hawke’s Bay lies in the heart of the North Island and boasts being one of the top wine regions of New Zealand. The area welcomes you with rolling green hills, mild temperatures, and a soft sea breeze. The Farm at Cape Kidnappers is the perfect accommodation to explore typical landmarks of New Zealand: wineries, sheep stations, and Kiwis. The spacious cottages overlook the Pacific coast. Onsite amenities of the property include an outdoor heated pool, a par 71 championship golf course, and a full-service luxury spa. You have the chance to go on a wine tour, observe thousands of white gannets and even meet one of the most extraordinary birds on our planet, New Zealand's heraldic animal – the kiwi.
Adrenaline junkies and mountain lovers won’t get enough of the South Island. Where else can you go skiing in the morning and jet skiing in the afternoon? Queenstown has become famous as the adventure capital of the world. Well deserved! The charming mountain town in the southwest of New Zealand's South Island is surrounded by raging rivers, crystal-clear lakes, and snow-covered mountains. But before you go bungee-jumping or on a scenic helicopter tour, you should find yourself a home base. The heavenly Matakauri lodge on the edge of Lake Wakatipu pampers its guests with award-winning cuisine, panoramic views, luxurious spa facilities, and superb comfort. It is the ideal retreat to reenergize after a day of adventure. The possibilities in Queenstown are sheer endless: There is heli-skiing, kayaking, hiking, mountain biking, and rafting but also the option to explore the alpine area on a horseback-riding excursion, golf, wine tours, or fly-fishing.
Talk to one of our travel curators and we'll plan an unforgettable trip to New Zealand. You might even spot a hobbit.
Bianca Klement
Like any journalist, Bianca's interest is piqued by pretty much everything, but what she likes best is writing long articles about nature, the sea, and exciting personalities. Whether trekking in Finland or kayaking with orcas, she's usually outdoors, and always on the lookout for her next adventure. As a passionate diver, her heart beats strongly for the underwater world and its protection.
Copyright Images: Jacob Sjoman (1), Robertson Lodges Kauri Cliffs (1-6), Farm at Cape Kidnappers (7-10), Matakauri Lodge (11-14)