Traveling to New Zealand is an experience that transforms the way we see the world. When we decided to embark on this journey, we already knew we’d find breathtaking landscapes. But what we didn’t expect was how deeply we’d connect—with nature, with the local culture, and, most importantly, with ourselves.
In this complete guide, we’ve gathered everything you need to know to plan an unforgettable trip to New Zealand—whether it’s your first big adventure or just one more on your travel resume. We’re sharing everything we experienced, learned, and recommend. Ready to travel with us?
Where is New Zealand and what makes it so special?
New Zealand is located in the South Pacific and is made up of two main islands—the North Island and the South Island—along with hundreds of smaller islands. The country is famous for its biodiversity, Maori culture, and for being the filming location of The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit.
More than just beautiful, New Zealand offers excellent tourist infrastructure, outstanding safety, and a welcoming population that greets us with a smile and genuine pride in their land.
Best time to visit New Zealand
Weather plays a key role in trip planning, so here’s what to expect by season:
- Summer (December to February): Ideal for beaches, hikes, water sports, and festivals.
- Autumn (March to May): Fewer crowds, mild weather, and golden landscapes.
- Winter (June to August): Perfect for snow lovers and winter sports.
- Spring (September to November): Blooming flowers, warmer temperatures, and active wildlife.
Each season has its charm. We chose to travel in late spring and enjoyed long days, comfortable temperatures, and flourishing nature.
How to get there and how to get around
Most international flights arrive in Auckland (North Island) or Christchurch (South Island). From Brazil and many other countries, it’s common to have layovers in Santiago, Doha, or Dubai.
To explore the country, you have several great options:
- Car or campervan: This was our choice. The freedom to stop wherever and whenever we wanted made a huge difference.
- Domestic flights: Fast and efficient between major cities.
- Tourist buses and scenic trains: Comfortable, though less flexible.
Itinerary through the main regions and attractions
Auckland – The Gateway City
We started in Auckland, the country’s largest city. A dynamic blend of urban culture and natural beauty. We strolled along the Viaduct Harbour, went up the Sky Tower, and visited nearby islands like Waiheke, famous for its vineyards and beaches.
Rotorua – Maori Culture and Geothermal Wonders
This was unlike anything we’d seen before. Bubbling mud pools, geysers, and a strong Maori presence make Rotorua unforgettable. Participating in a cultural evening, complete with traditional haka dance and hangi dinner, was deeply moving.
Taupo and Tongariro – Adventure and Epic Trails
Located by New Zealand’s largest lake, Taupo was our base for one of the most iconic hikes in the country: the Tongariro Alpine Crossing. With volcanic terrain and surreal-colored lakes, this hike is a must for nature lovers.
Wellington – The Charming Capital
Wellington offered a mix of creativity, history, and gastronomy. The Te Papa Museum is a standout, and the vibrant Cuba Street captured our hearts with its bohemian flair.
Queenstown – The Adventure Capital
On the South Island, Queenstown is the ultimate destination for adrenaline. We did bungee jumping, jet boating, and also enjoyed peaceful moments by Lake Wakatipu, surrounded by snow-capped peaks and crisp mountain air.
Milford Sound and Fiordland – Nature at Its Most Majestic
Cruising through Milford Sound was one of the highlights of our trip. Towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and dolphins swimming alongside us created a sense of awe we’ll never forget.
Christchurch and Kaikoura – Creativity and Marine Life
Christchurch showed us the power of reinvention after natural disasters. In Kaikoura, we had a magical encounter with sperm whales and playful dolphins. Few moments in our travels have compared.
Maori Culture: More Than Just a Tourist Experience
Throughout our journey, we learned how deeply the Maori culture shapes New Zealand’s identity. Respect for the land, nature, and ancestors is present everywhere.
Attending ceremonies, learning phrases in Te Reo Maori, trying traditional foods, and understanding the values of the Maori people gave us a profound appreciation for the soul of this country.
New Zealand’s Cuisine
New Zealand’s cuisine pleasantly surprised us. It’s simple yet rich in flavor and always fresh:
- Fish and chips: A seaside staple.
- Roast lamb: Widely consumed and delicious.
- South Island salmon and Bluff oysters: Unforgettable freshness.
- Wines: Especially Sauvignon Blanc from the Marlborough region.
Local bakeries and cafes also won our hearts with their quality and warmth.
Practical travel tips
- Language: English is the official language, though Maori is also widely used.
- Currency: New Zealand Dollar (NZD). Credit cards are widely accepted.
- Internet: Fast and reliable. Buying a local SIM card saved us money.
- Visa: Travelers from Brazil and many countries need only an NZeTA, an easy online travel authorization.
- Safety: One of the safest countries in the world. We felt comfortable everywhere.
- Sustainability: Kiwis take environmental care seriously. Stick to marked trails, avoid littering, and reduce plastic use.
Is New Zealand worth visiting?
Absolutely—without hesitation. New Zealand isn’t just beautiful; it’s profound. This country showed us that it’s possible to live in harmony with nature, to preserve culture with pride, and to welcome travelers with open arms.
For those seeking a destination where landscapes dazzle, people inspire, and every corner feels like a new discovery, New Zealand is the place.
We hope this guide helps you plan your adventure with more excitement and confidence. And who knows—maybe we’ll cross paths there someday, hiking across ridges, sailing through fjords, or simply gazing up at a star-filled sky.
