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New Zealand Information
New Zealand’s surreal landscape, unique wildlife, luxuriant forests and friendly climate make it an incredible destination to visit year round. With such rich resources, New Zealand is a haven for adventure activities, combined with welcoming people and a diverse culture for a traveler’s paradise. Activity options abound from mild to wild, and the first-class food and wine will impress you with its diversity in both the North and South Islands of New Zealand. With so many opportunities, you will discover why New Zealand is an unforgettable destination that you will never forget.
Join Adventures Around the World as we take you from the coast to the mountains for new, exciting and meaningful experiences.
New Zealand Adventure Regions
New Zealand Activities
New Zealand When to Go
New Zealand Adventure Regions
New Zealand Activities
New Zealand When to Go
Traveling to New Zealand is as easy as ever with the help of Adventures Around the World. We handle the details so you can enjoy your vacation to the fullest.
NORTH ISLAND
NORTHLAND AND THE BAY OF ISLAND
This remote and breathtaking area is considered to be a “winterless paradise” with National Parks and beautiful beaches. The islands and coves here have perfect surf breaks, world-class dive sites and towering sand dunes. With so much variety, the possibilities for adventures are endless.
CENTRAL
There is endless opportunity for adventure activities in the Central Region of the North Island. Travelers can choose between underwater caving and above ground rock-climbing at Wharepapa South. Great ski resorts provide excellent winter opportunities, and during the summer months tramping is a popular activity in this region. The main cities of Hamilton, Auckland and Rotorua have great cultural attractions and shopping. There are many National Parks and scenic areas that can be explored by boat, horseback and by foot. Whether you are exploring the beautiful bays on both coasts or dipping into one of the many thermal hot springs, you will truly enjoy your time in this region. AAW can arrange many different activities and explorations while on an adventure vacation here.
WELLINGTON
The capital city of New Zealand, Wellington is a low-key city that offers big city opportunities. Wellington is the gateway city for travel between the North and South Islands. The areas around Wellington have beautiful beaches, scenic hiking, and many activity options within a short drive. This is where you can have a cultural city experience before heading out into rural New Zealand.
SOUTH ISLAND
MARLBOROUGH AND NELSON
With a slightly different culture, this entrance to the South Island has less Maori influence but still offers many exciting activities. Similar to Wellington on the North Island, most travelers use Marlborough and Nelson as a quick rest stop before heading out to the ski areas or more rural parts of New Zealand. Near Marlborough are mountain biking trails, renowned wineries and wildlife-rich waters. The Nelson region offers some of the best tramping and sea kayaking in New Zealand. Nearby are picture perfect beaches and great local culture.
CENTRAL
In the central part of the South Island, travelers enjoy picturesque rugged coastline, towering mountains and great activities. The coastline sports towering glaciers, such as the Franz Josef Glacier and the Fox Glacier, great climbing and powerful surf spots. Beaten by the weather much of the year, the central area is between the high mountains. Christchurch is a metropolitan center surrounded by volcanic mountains, steep ski slopes and peaceful farmland. Between the glaciers, rainforests, mountains and plains, travelers have many options to choose from while in the central region.
QUEENSTOWN
Queenstown is an adventure capital. Situated in the mountains of the South Island, adventure activities abound in the summer and winter months. The local mountain range, the Remarkables, is an amazing area for tramping, heli-skiing, jet boating and rafting opportunities. With numerous bungee jumps surrounding the town and an electrifying vibe, this is one of the best bases for adventure in New Zealand. Around Queenstown are quaint towns and more mellow adventure opportunities. Adventures Around the World tailors trips to challenge travelers to enjoy this area to the fullest.
THE SOUTHERN REGION
Unique opportunities abound on the far southern region of the South Island. Some of the best scenery on both islands is here with incredible wildlife viewing and outdoor activities. Travelers enjoy multi-day biking trips down the Otago Central Rail Trail or a visit to the Otago Peninsula where penguins and seals are easily spotted. Fiordland National Park is another great place to see dolphins, whales and penguins while enjoying the stunning solitude and beauty of the sea. Paddling and tramping are incredible in this area and just a quick drive from Queenstown. This is a great add-on for any trip to New Zealand with Adventures Around the World.
New Zealand Activities
SURFING
The North and South Islands of New Zealand are pummeled with perfect swells year-round in almost every location. Providing great experiences for beginners and experts alike, there are many popular beaches, and with a little extra effort you can visit more remote breaks for un-crowded waves. Most of the premier beaches have first-class surf schools and opportunities to get your feet wet in the Kiwi surf.
BUNGEE JUMPING
Adrenaline seekers will be happy to know that there are numerous opportunities in New Zealand to find a thrill. Some enjoy hurling themselves off a small platform with only a rubber band attached to their body. The level of thrill is up to you. Safety is of utmost importance on these adventures, and many locations, heights and levels are available throughout the country.
SEA KAYAKING
With incredible coastline, stunning coves and islands, New Zealand is an unforgettable place to take a sea kayaking tour. Depending on your location, there are both canoeing and sea kayaking opportunities into the remote regions of New Zealand. Most hotels and resorts along the beaches have opportunities for day trip ventures on the water, but longer trips can be arranged ahead of time too.
FISHING
The lakes and rivers of the North Island are famous for trout fishing. The introduction of rainbow trout, brown trout, salmon, perch, char and many other species have populated most waterways with excellent fishing for visiting anglers. The ocean also offers an abundance of species such as Grey Mullet, Trevally, Mao Mao, and Porae and can be caught from ocean boats or by surf casting off the coast.
HORSEBACK RIDING
Mountainous terrain and remote trails make horseback riding a popular activity on both the North and South Islands. You can either take a short one-hour stroll or up to a weeklong catered adventure. This is an excellent way to get out into the countryside to explore the mountains, forests and beaches in New Zealand.
JETBOATING
A true Kiwi invention, jet boats are able to go into shallow water and up tight rivers at breakneck speeds. To add to the thrill, you’ll find yourself doing all kinds of improbable acrobatics, including 360-degree turns in tight river canyons. Many locations are available, and we like to add this to many of our New Zealand adventures.
CLIMBING AND MOUNTAINEERING
With such stunning mountains and steep canyons, you can expect to find great terrain for climbing and mountaineering. There are many popular climbing areas on both the North and South Islands, and lessons and outings can be easily arranged. The mountaineering options require slightly more experience and top physical condition. There are many nice areas to challenge your skills, and with so many options, those looking to gain experience are just as welcome as those who want a highly technical climb.
WHITEWATER RAFTING/KAYAKING
There are many world-class rivers throughout New Zealand. White-water rafting has quickly become a staple adventure sport in this beautiful country. Most rivers are technically difficult and require an adventurous spirit and some hard paddling. We also arrange kayak excursions that meet any paddler’s ability level on a variety of rivers in different locations throughout the country.
DIVING AND SNORKELING
Jacques Cousteau rated New Zealand’s dive locations as among the ten best in the world. There are many large wrecks that are dive-worthy, including the Greenpeace flagship, Rainbow Warrior, and the largest diveable cruise-ship wreck in the world, the Mikhail Lermontov. Both day and multi-day courses are available depending on your interests.
SKYDIVING
Jumping out of airplanes is a popular pastime in New Zealand with many professional operators running jump schools throughout both islands. The easy way to experience this thrill is on a tandem jump. For a solo jump, you’ll need to spend a whole day in a skydiving course.
SKIING AND SNOWBOARDING
New Zealand is one of the most popular ski destinations in the southern hemisphere. With so many options, it is difficult to choose which region and mountain to ski or snowboard. The local towns and cities are excellent après ski locales. We run winter ski trips as multi-mountain adventures with a few days at one resort followed by a few days at another. If you are looking for a more solitary experience, New Zealand offers many heli-skiing opportunities to test your skills on steeper and more isolated slopes.
TRAMPING (HIKING) AND CAMPING
With the exotic landscape and a physically active population, there are endless miles of hiking trails in New Zealand. With well-traveled routes and options for camping or staying in huts, every adventurer can enjoy the incredible hiking around the North and South Islands. The best season for hiking and camping is from October to April.
CULTURAL SIGHTS AND SOUNDS
New Zealand has a rich history of colonization and the historic Maori culture. The native population of the Maori tribe still exists throughout cities and villages. You can visit a traditional village or attend one of the many ceremonies that the Maori tribe puts on throughout the year. The western influence is fairly strong with a rich history and great sights and sounds to visit.
BIRD AND WILDLIFE WATCHING
New Zealand is home to many migratory and rare bird species. The flightless Kiwi is the most sought after sighting. The ocean also holds an abundance of amazing animals such as the Sperm Whale and dolphins. A popular activity for thrill seekers is to take a day and go swimming with the sharks. New Zealand’s remote nature makes wildlife viewing easy and fun for everyone. We always have a few pairs of binoculars and ID books with us on our trips, but some locations have built-in birding and wildlife activities.
OTHER EXCITING ACTIVITIES
Different regions of New Zealand offer exciting opportunities for the adventurous traveler. Activities such as windsurfing, sailing, paragliding/parapenting, underground caving, rafting, ATV excursions, mountain biking and many more await your arrival in New Zealand with Adventures Around the World.
New Zealand When to Go
New Zealand Activities
SURFING
The North and South Islands of New Zealand are pummeled with perfect swells year-round in almost every location. Providing great experiences for beginners and experts alike, there are many popular beaches, and with a little extra effort you can visit more remote breaks for un-crowded waves. Most of the premier beaches have first-class surf schools and opportunities to get your feet wet in the Kiwi surf.
BUNGEE JUMPING
Adrenaline seekers will be happy to know that there are numerous opportunities in New Zealand to find a thrill. Some enjoy hurling themselves off a small platform with only a rubber band attached to their body. The level of thrill is up to you. Safety is of utmost importance on these adventures, and many locations, heights and levels are available throughout the country.
SEA KAYAKING
With incredible coastline, stunning coves and islands, New Zealand is an unforgettable place to take a sea kayaking tour. Depending on your location, there are both canoeing and sea kayaking opportunities into the remote regions of New Zealand. Most hotels and resorts along the beaches have opportunities for day trip ventures on the water, but longer trips can be arranged ahead of time too.
FISHING
The lakes and rivers of the North Island are famous for trout fishing. The introduction of rainbow trout, brown trout, salmon, perch, char and many other species have populated most waterways with excellent fishing for visiting anglers. The ocean also offers an abundance of species such as Grey Mullet, Trevally, Mao Mao, and Porae and can be caught from ocean boats or by surf casting off the coast.
HORSEBACK RIDING
Mountainous terrain and remote trails make horseback riding a popular activity on both the North and South Islands. You can either take a short one-hour stroll or up to a weeklong catered adventure. This is an excellent way to get out into the countryside to explore the mountains, forests and beaches in New Zealand.
JETBOATING
A true Kiwi invention, jet boats are able to go into shallow water and up tight rivers at breakneck speeds. To add to the thrill, you’ll find yourself doing all kinds of improbable acrobatics, including 360-degree turns in tight river canyons. Many locations are available, and we like to add this to many of our New Zealand adventures.
CLIMBING AND MOUNTAINEERING
With such stunning mountains and steep canyons, you can expect to find great terrain for climbing and mountaineering. There are many popular climbing areas on both the North and South Islands, and lessons and outings can be easily arranged. The mountaineering options require slightly more experience and top physical condition. There are many nice areas to challenge your skills, and with so many options, those looking to gain experience are just as welcome as those who want a highly technical climb.
WHITEWATER RAFTING/KAYAKING
There are many world-class rivers throughout New Zealand. White-water rafting has quickly become a staple adventure sport in this beautiful country. Most rivers are technically difficult and require an adventurous spirit and some hard paddling. We also arrange kayak excursions that meet any paddler’s ability level on a variety of rivers in different locations throughout the country.
DIVING AND SNORKELING
Jacques Cousteau rated New Zealand’s dive locations as among the ten best in the world. There are many large wrecks that are dive-worthy, including the Greenpeace flagship, Rainbow Warrior, and the largest diveable cruise-ship wreck in the world, the Mikhail Lermontov. Both day and multi-day courses are available depending on your interests.
SKYDIVING
Jumping out of airplanes is a popular pastime in New Zealand with many professional operators running jump schools throughout both islands. The easy way to experience this thrill is on a tandem jump. For a solo jump, you’ll need to spend a whole day in a skydiving course.
SKIING AND SNOWBOARDING
New Zealand is one of the most popular ski destinations in the southern hemisphere. With so many options, it is difficult to choose which region and mountain to ski or snowboard. The local towns and cities are excellent après ski locales. We run winter ski trips as multi-mountain adventures with a few days at one resort followed by a few days at another. If you are looking for a more solitary experience, New Zealand offers many heli-skiing opportunities to test your skills on steeper and more isolated slopes.
TRAMPING (HIKING) AND CAMPING
With the exotic landscape and a physically active population, there are endless miles of hiking trails in New Zealand. With well-traveled routes and options for camping or staying in huts, every adventurer can enjoy the incredible hiking around the North and South Islands. The best season for hiking and camping is from October to April.
CULTURAL SIGHTS AND SOUNDS
New Zealand has a rich history of colonization and the historic Maori culture. The native population of the Maori tribe still exists throughout cities and villages. You can visit a traditional village or attend one of the many ceremonies that the Maori tribe puts on throughout the year. The western influence is fairly strong with a rich history and great sights and sounds to visit.
BIRD AND WILDLIFE WATCHING
New Zealand is home to many migratory and rare bird species. The flightless Kiwi is the most sought after sighting. The ocean also holds an abundance of amazing animals such as the Sperm Whale and dolphins. A popular activity for thrill seekers is to take a day and go swimming with the sharks. New Zealand’s remote nature makes wildlife viewing easy and fun for everyone. We always have a few pairs of binoculars and ID books with us on our trips, but some locations have built-in birding and wildlife activities.
OTHER EXCITING ACTIVITIES
Different regions of New Zealand offer exciting opportunities for the adventurous traveler. Activities such as windsurfing, sailing, paragliding/parapenting, underground caving, rafting, ATV excursions, mountain biking and many more await your arrival in New Zealand with Adventures Around the World.
New Zealand When to Go
New Zealand is located in the South Pacific Ocean below Australia. The most popular months to travel to New Zealand are from November to April. New Zealand is in the southern hemisphere, so the seasons are reversed from the United States. Kiwis enjoy December and February by holding many festivals, concerts and sporting events. Skiing and snowboarding is best from June to August.
AVERAGE NEW ZEALAND TEMPERATURES AND RAINFALL – North Island: Auckland
AVERAGE NEW ZEALAND TEMPERATURES AND RAINFALL – South Island: Queenstown
