Rotorua (which comes from the Maori “Te Rotorua-nui-a-Kahumatamomoe”) is one of the most popular tourist destinations on the North Island. Located in the Bay of Plenty region, tourists have been visiting here since the 19th century, flocking to the region to bathe in the geothermal hot springs. The dynamic geothermal landscape makes for exciting nature […]
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Waitomo Travel Guide
More than 30 million years after Waitomo first rose from the ocean floor, its unique underground limestone formations stand out as one of New Zealand’s most beautiful and popular natural wonders. Travelers come here to explore the region’s underground caves, abseil in them, and see the famous glowworms (which are one of the coolest things […]
Auckland Travel Guide
Auckland is the largest and most populous city in New Zealand (though contrary to popular belief, it is not the capital). Pretty much anyone coming to New Zealand is going to visit Auckland. As the country’s main airport, all long-haul international flights are going to land here. As a tourist destination, I don’t think this […]
Bay of Islands Travel Guide
The Bay of Islands is one of the most popular destinations in all of New Zealand. Mile after mile of beach and rocky coastline surround the bay, which is dotted with 144 islands. It’s a hugely popular summer getaway destination for those around Auckland. The beauty of the Bay of Islands — and its countless […]
Franz Josef Travel Guide
Franz Josef is a tiny town that’s a popular jumping-off point for seeing the glaciers in the area. Together, the Franz Josef Glacier and the Fox Glacier are part of the World Heritage Site Te Wahipounamu. The Franz Josef glacier itself is a 2-kilometer-long (7.5-mile) glacier located about 5 kilometers (3 miles) from town. Sadly, […]
Queenstown Travel Guide
Queenstown is a small, picturesque town surrounded by The Remarkables mountain range. Home to some under 20,000 people, Queenstown overlooks Lake Wakatipu and is filled with narrow pedestrian streets, wonderful food, and a crazy nightlife scene. It’s also the “adventure capital” of New Zealand and the launching pad for every sort of adventure or adrenaline […]
Nelson Travel Guide
Nelson may be a small town but it’s a really cool small town. It’s the second-oldest town in the entire country (established in 1841), so there’s a lot of history here. Your visit will be filled with excellent cafes and restaurants, wonderful mountains and beaches, and, obviously, one (or all) of the three nearby national […]
Wanaka Travel Guide
Wanaka is a resort town on New Zealand’s South Island, set on Wanaka Lake and framed by snowcapped mountains. From here you can explore the Southern Alps’ Mount Aspiring National Park, hike Rob Roy Glacier, go skiing, boat or kayak on the lake, hike one of the many trails around town, or just chill out. […]
Christchurch Travel Guide
Christchurch is New Zealand’s oldest and second-largest city (Auckland is the largest). Though severely damaged by a series of earthquakes in 2010-2012, Christchurch has made a comeback. It’s a brand new city filled with funky bars, markets, new restaurants, shops, and art exhibits. The locals have worked hard to rebuild and there is a community […]
The 6 Best Hotels in Christchurch
Posted: 2/10/2024 | February 10th, 2024 The largest city on New Zealand’s South Island, Christchurch is a popular stop for pretty much anyone traveling around the country. The city was severely damaged by massive earthquakes between 2010 and 2012, which killed hundreds and injured thousands, but has since been revitalized and reborn. Home to just […]
The 5 Best Hostels in Auckland
Posted: 1/5/23 | January 5th, 2023 Auckland is the biggest city in New Zealand. Nestled within an hour’s drive of over a hundred beaches, Auckland makes for a great base for day trips. While I wouldn’t spend a long time here (a couple of days should suffice), there’s plenty to keep you busy during your […]
The 6 Best Hotels in Auckland
Posted: 12/19/23 | December 19th, 2023 Nicknamed “The City of Sails” for its waterfront location and seafaring history, Auckland boasts scenic seaside views and ample water activities. New Zealand’s largest city (though contrary to popular belief, it’s not the capital), Auckland is home to almost 35% of the country’s population. The largest airport is also […]