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New Zealand Musts: Do, Eat, See & Pack
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items Plan your New Zealand adventure with curated tips on where to go, stay, eat, and shop — perfect for travellers exploring Aotearoa for the first time.
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Auckland Musts: Do, Eat & See
Books on New Zealand
Souvenirs to Buy in New Zealand
Maps of New Zealand
Wellington Musts: Do, Eat & See
Discount Websites for New Zealand
Auckland Musts: Do, Eat & See
Explore Auckland’s best places to eat, visit, and experience — from hidden gems to famous attractions. Perfect for travellers planning what to do in Auckland, New Zealand.
Waiheke Island - famous for wineries and beautiful beaches. A ferry ride from Auckland City
Your guide to Waiheke Island | Waiheke.co.nz
Sky Tower offers grand views across Auckland
Sky Tower
LoTR fans would love this experience from Weta - right next door to Sky Tower!
Wētā Workshop Unleashed | Auckland
Great Views over Auckland at Sunset or Sunrise
Maungawhau / Mount Eden - maunga in Auckland
Interncontinental Auckland - 5 star hotel in the central City and across the road from the ferry terminal. Great location!
Hotel in Auckland City | InterContinental Auckland
Auckland Zoo is a great spot that you can easily get too via an uber from Auckland Central and you can see New Zealand birds including the Kiwi!
Auckland Zoo
A short ferry ride across the Auckland Waitemata harbour; is this tiny little village. Fabulous views back to the city and you can walk through the war tunnels
Devonport Village
One of my favourite musuems ; the building is stunning and has great displays and a gift shop. Make sure you walk to the nearby Winter Gardens which are a true Auckland hidden gem
Tickets - Visit - Auckland War Memorial ...
A true hidden gem in Auckland, the Auckland Domain Winter Gardens; fabulous on a sunny or rainy days in Auckland city
Auckland Domain Wintergardens
Tiritiri Matangi Island is one of the most special places in Auckland. It is a Department of Conservation Island where you can see NZ birds flitting between trees. It was once a farming island but it has been turned into a pest free island. Make sure you take all your own food and clean your shoes before taking the ferry. Highly recommend the walks. Last time I visited, we were able to go swimming with wild dolphins in the bay.
Tiritiri Matangi
My favourite Auckland beach
Cheltenham Beach
Must do for transport loving kiddos and adults
MOTAT Museum of Transport and Technology
Great spot to learn about our nautical history
New Zealand Maritime Museum
Books on New Zealand
A curated collection of the best New Zealand books — travel, culture, and fiction picks that bring Aotearoa’s stories to life.
Grab yourself a Lonely Planet Guide for lots of tips and advice
Lonely Planet Experience New Zealand
The Wonky Donkey is a kiwi and international best seller - great for kids of all ages
The Wonky Donkey by Craig Smith, Katz Cowley, Paperback
Learn about Maori legends which this great books
Maui and Other Maori Legends: 8 Classic Tales of Aotearoa
Aotearoa, the New Zealand story. Learn about the history with your kids before travelling to NZ.
Aotearoa: The New Zealand Story : Bishop, Gavin
Travel for Kids through New Zealand
Travel for kids: The fun way to discover New Zealand by Dinobibi Publishing ...
Explore Aotearoa - another books for the kids when travelling to NZ
Explore Aotearoa: North Island Colouring
The Best Day Hikes in New Zealand from the Lonely Planet Guide
Lonely Planet Best Day Hikes New Zealand|Paperback
North Island, New Zealand - if you are only travelling one island, then this Lonely Planet guide will be a good source of information for your travels
Lonely Planet New Zealand's North Island|Paperback
South Island, New Zealand travel guide book from Lonely Planet - great if you are only travelling around the South Island.
Lonely Planet New Zealand's South Island|Paperback
Need some help, working out your road trip around the South Island of New Zealand then this Lonely Planet guide gives you some guidance with timings. We have very difficult roads which take a lot of time to drive.
Lonely Planet New Zealand's South Island Road Trips|eBook
This latest edition of Lonely Planet's Experience New Zealand travel guide reveals exciting new ways to explore this iconic country with all the tools you need to create your own unique trip.
Lonely Planet Experience New Zealand|Paperback
Fodor's Essential New Zealand - great guide.
Fodor's Essential New Zealand|Paperback
Whether you're seeking your next adrenaline-fix, the best place to taste traditional Maori cuisine, or the perfect geothermal pool to unwind in, your DK Eyewitness travel guide makes sure you experience all that New Zealand has to offer.
DK New Zealand|Paperback
If you like Frommers for your guide book, here is the one for New Zealand
Frommer's New Zealand|Paperback
If you want to travel around New Zealand on Bike then Lonely Planet has the guide for you! Lonely Planet's Best Bike Rides New Zealand is your passport to 38 day trips on two wheels. Use pedal power to see a destination through a new lens by picking a ride that works for you, from just a couple of hours to a full day, from easy to hard. Fr...
Lonely Planet Best Bike Rides New Zealand|Paperback
Travel to New Zealand to taste the islands' unique cuisine, discover Maori culture, and drive through "Middle Earth" landscapes—with National Geographic experts as your trusted guides.
National Geographic Traveler: New Zealand, 3rd Edition|Paperback
Lonely Planet Best Road Trips New Zealand: Detailed Itineraries Travel Like a Local Insider Tips Covers Marlborough, Bay of Islands, Milford Sound, Waiheke Island and more
Lonely Planet Best Road Trips New Zealand: Detailed Itineraries Travel Like a Local Insider Tips Covers Marlborough, Bay of Islands, Milford Sound, Waiheke Island and more|Paperback
For Foodies coming to New Zealand and Australia! Food lovers rejoice! Enjoy 40 of the best food and drink experiences across both Australia and New Zealand. Each ‘gourmet trail’ features food producers, farmers’ markets, restaurants, cafes, wineries, distilleries and breweries, all combining to cre...
Lonely Planet Gourmet Trails - Australia & New Zealand|Hardcover
Souvenirs to Buy in New Zealand
Looking for the perfect New Zealand souvenirs? Explore unique local finds, artisan gifts, and must-buy items to remember your trip by.
A NZ classic cook book
Best Cooking & Baking Recipes NZ | Edmonds Cooking
All Birds - a New Zealand brand that we all love. Buy in New Zealand and try on different styles at their Britomart shop in Auckland, New Zealand
Women's Wool Runner Go
If you're only in Auckland then the Auckland Museum gift shop is a good place to visit for gift ideas but there are cheaper alternatives around and you will find more in my listing here under souvenirs
Gifts of Pounamu – Auckland Museum Online Store
Whittakers is hands down the best chocolate in the world! You can not beat Whittakers chocolate. Make sure you buy your bars at the supermarket prior to leaving as the price in the airport is almost triple the price. Woolworths and New Worlds sells all the different flavours.
Whittaker's New Zealand
All Blacks Rugby Jumper if you are sports mad is a great souvenir to take home or a jumper for one of our regional teams (they are all so bright and colourful!)
New Zealand Rugby Apparel & Merchandise | The All Blacks And Black Ferns Shop AU
The Poi Room is one of my favourite shops as it showcases amazing New Zealand artists in so many different fields. Go in and check it out; there is definitely something for everyone
The Poi Room
Sterling Silver NZ made earrings - simple statement earrings
Rejuvenate Earrings - sterling silver by Timmy Smith
Maps of New Zealand
Explore beautiful maps of New Zealand, from vintage designs to modern travel maps. Perfect for travellers, collectors, and anyone who loves Aotearoa’s stunning landscapes.
Map of the South Island, New Zealand
Lonely Planet New Zealand's South Island Planning Map|Other Format
New Zealand adventure map for your travels
New Zealand (National Geographic Adventure Map, 3500)|Other Format
North Island of New Zealand planning map
Lonely Planet New Zealand's North Island Planning Map|Other Format
Tongariro Alpine Crossing & Tongariro Northern Circuit Detailed Topo Large Scale Trekking/Hiking/Walking Topographic Map Atlas New Zealand North Island 1: 25000: Great Trails & Walks Info for Hikers, Trekkers, Walkers
Tongariro Alpine Crossing & Tongariro Northern Circuit Detailed Topo Large Scale Trekking/Hiking/Walking Topographic Map Atlas New Zealand North Island 1: 25000: Great Trails & Walks Info for Hikers, Trekkers, Walkers|Paperback
Wellington Musts: Do, Eat & See
Explore Wellington’s best places to eat, visit, and experience — from hidden gems to famous attractions. Perfect for travellers planning what to do in Wellington, NZ
Wellington, New Zealand - the capital city of New Zealand
WellingtonNZ: Visit Wellington
One of the best things to do in Wellington, views for miles!
Wellington Cable Car
One of the best Museums in New Zealand is in Wellington, Te Papa
Te Papa
The Beehive, our house of parliament for the New Zealand government
Beehive
Mt Victoria, Wellington - incredible views over the city and you will get blown around. This is a great place to walk down as there are amazing long slides for kids and adults alike.
Mount Victoria | Wellington, New Zealand
Zealandia, Wellington: an easy place to visit from the central city. An old waste site has now been turned into a haven for New Zealand's native birds
Zealandia Map | Explore Tracks & Visitor Facilities
Intercontinental Wellington Hotel is a great location, very close to the cable car and shopping. You can easily get around the city without a car. Swimming pool at the top for the kids.
InterContinental Wellington
Weta Workshops is a must see for any LoTR fan or just wanting to see how the magic is created in movies, this is for you!
Tours | Wētā Workshop
Discount Websites for New Zealand
Find the best discount websites in New Zealand for travel, fashion, beauty, and everyday savings. Perfect for Kiwi shoppers and visitors looking to save while exploring Aotearoa.
Book Me offers great last minute discounts for popular tourist hotspots
Bookme New Zealand - deals and discounts on attractions, tours and activities
First Table is a great discount website for 50% off food for early sittings around New Zealand.
50% off Early Bird Restaurant Deals with First Table
Christchurch Musts: Do, Eat & See
Explore Christchurch’s best places to eat, visit, and experience — from hidden gems to famous attractions. Perfect for travellers planning what to do in Christchurch, NZ
International Antarctic Centre is one of the most amazing things to do in Christchurch and right near the airport. You could do a day trip from Auckland. A must for adults and kids alike!
International Antarctic Centre
Orana Zoo, a staple in Christchurch and good for kids
Orana Wildlife Park
Don't do if you are scared of heights; the Christchurch Gondala
Christchurch Gondola
A little bit of France in Canterbury, near Christchurch
Akaroa - Things to see and do - South Island - New Zealand
Swimming with dolphins near Christchurch and just going to see them from a boat
Swimming with Dolphins | Hector's Dolphin
One of my favourite things to do in Christchurch; it is relaxing and the history on the river is incredible to learn about
Punting On The Avon (Antigua Boat Sheds)
Located in the heart of Ōtautahi Christchurch and a much-loved jewel of the city. The Christchurch Botanic Gardens feature one of the finest collections of exotic and native plants in New Zealand. With 500,000 recorded visitors each year, the Botanic...
Christchurch Botanic Gardens
The Curators House: there is a little cafe right by the entrance to the gardens and river
Curators House
Margaret Mahy is one of New Zealand's famous child authors; this is the best playground in the whole of New Zealand. Let your kids run wild for half the day.
Margaret Mahy Family Playground
There's nothing like an adventure to see island shipwrecks. Discover Quail Island's unique history; a former leper colony, a training ground for Antarctic explorers, a ship graveyard, and now a pest-free ecological reserve.
Ōtamahua/Quail Island Recreation Reserve: Places to visit in Canterbury
Lyttleton, a short drive from Christchurch offers beautiful views and is a great little port town
Things to see and do in Lyttelton, New Zealand
Hot Pools by the sea in Christchurch to soothe your aching bones
He Puna Taimoana Hot Pools
Riverside Market is a easy stop if you don't know what you want to eat. Lots of little places to try in Christchurch
Riverside Market, Christchurch
The Terrace is a great spot for finding a fabulous resturant or to meet up with friends for drink in Christchurch
The Terrace | Christchurch
Canterbury Museum is a great spot to learn more about the region which was home to some of the first settlers in New Zealand
Canterbury Museum
After the earthquakes that rocked Christchurch, this it the current home as Christchuch Cathedral is destroyed but will hopefully be rebuilt
Cardboard Cathedral
A firm favourite of people of all ages, the Christchuch Tram offers a great loop of the city where you can jump on and off visiting different areas of the city.
Things To Do In Christchurch: Christchurch Tram
Stunning park especially during spring and autumn as the leaves change colour and the spring flowers pop back out again. Hagley Park is beautiful and a great place to let your kids run around
Hagley Park North
Queenstown Musts: Do, Eat & See
Explore Queenstown’s best places to eat, visit, and experience — from hidden gems to famous attractions. Perfect for travellers planning what to do in Queenstown, NZ
Queenstown, a gem in New Zealand but it is not hidden so be wary of the crowds
Destination Queenstown
Ferg Burgers are famous in New Zealand; I didn't think they were that great, I much prefer his pies! Give them a go!
Fergburger
Shotever Jet - one of the most iconic things to do in Queenstown
Best Jet Boat Ride in Queenstown | Shotover Jet
Another iconic thing to do in Queenstown is the luge
Queenstown Skyline - Things To Do in Queenstown
Queenstown Gardens are so lovely to walk around, especially great for burning the energy out of children as they can run around
Queenstown Gardens Trail | Queenstown NZ
Coronet Peak is a ski field just outside of Queenstown.
Coronet Peak | Queenstown NZ
Onsen Hot Pools are super instagramable but very expensive. An experience that people enjoy for the gram!
Onsen Hot Pools & Day Spa | Onsen Hot Pools and Day Spa | Queenstown NZ
Arrowtown is a great half day trip on the outskirts of Queenstown. Beautiful during the autumn months when the leaves change colour in New Zealand.
Arrowtown New Zealand, Things to Do, See, and Experience
Glenorchy is another great half day trip from Queenstown. The road to Glenorchy is stunning with lots of photo opportunities.
Glenorchy - Things to see and do - Queenstown - New Zealand
What to Pack for New Zealand Travels
What to Pack for New Zealand Travel; always remember a rain coat as when it rain, it pours even during summer.
Bowlees Waterproof Jacket
This short puffer jacket from North Face is a wonderful colour while practical. Cold weather shouldn’t mean less time outdoors. That’s why we built the Women’s Hydrenalite™ Down Hoodie. Born to thrive where others hesitate, this bomber-inspired puffer redefines the boundaries between form and function. With 600-fill recycled do...
Women’s Hydrenalite™ Down Hoodie—Print | The North Face | The North Face
Love this sleeveless puffer jacket. Even during the summer months, it can get cold in the lower South Island.
Women’s Hydrenalite™ Down A-Line Vest | The North Face | The North Face
The perfect winter jacket to wear to the South Island during winter when it can be very cold. Pure winter heaven due to the gorgeous colour; very elegant
Women’s Hydrenalite™ City Long Down Hooded Parka | The North Face
Another great piece from North Face; great for winter, spring and autumn. We know puffy jackets. We basically invented them. The Women’s THERMOBALL™ Hooded Jacket is a modern update full of innovations that keep you warm from city to summit. An updated quilting pattern minimizes cold spots while all fabrics and fill are no...
Women’s THERMOBALL™ Hooded Jacket | The North Face
A raincoat is a necessity for all seasons, 4 seasons in one day! When the weather turns, we turn to the Antora. With practical design elements inspired by our iconic Mountain Jacket, this highly versatile rain shell sets the new standard for everyday reliability. Engineered for an easy transition from rainy sidewa...
Women’s Antora Rain Jacket—Print | The North Face
A longer raincoat is stunning, a necessity for New Zealand travels. Trekking to work or hitting the trail, the Women’s Daybreak Mid Rain Parka is up for the challenge. 100% recycled, waterproof DRYVENT™ fabric meets an adjustable waist and longer silhouette, so you never have to compromise between form and function.
Women’s Daybreak Mid Rain Parka | The North Face
Remember to take a fleece to keep you warm as the mornings and evenings can get cold even in summer in New Zealand!
Women’s Osito Lux Jacket | The North Face
Love this stunning bright green cropped fleece top for travels to New Zealand. Super stylish and practical for drinks and dinner out or doing short hikes in New Zealand. A fleece is a must for travel in NZ all year round
Women’s Extreme Pile 2 Pullover | The North Face
Make sure you grab yourself some great shoes or boots for hiking or short walks while in NZ. You don't want to hurt your ankles while travelling
Women’s Offtrail Hike LT Mid GORE-TEX® Boots | The North Face
You can't beat a beautiful pom pom beanie any day. This is perfect for the winter season in NZ for travelling
Women’s Oh Mega Fur Pom Beanie | The North Face
Good quality hiking socks are a must and you want to ensure that you can tuck your trousers into your socks due to sandflies and mosquitos in the South Island.
Hiking Quarter Socks | The North Face
Love this vintage inspired green cap. Make sure you bring a cap as the sun is so strong due to the lack of ozone layer. You even need a cap in the winter months to protect yourself.
Norm 5-Panel Hat | The North Face
Love this cap, another vintage inspired cap which is required for travel around NZ. In NZ, school children are not allowed outside to play without a hat on as the sun is so strong.
Norm SE Hat | The North Face
New Zealand Walks & Hiking Information
The Department of Conversation provide great information on the famous Great New Zealand Walks and other hikes around New Zealand; a great tool to use to plan hiking in New Zealand for your NZ travels
Great Walks of New Zealand
Another great website detailing special walking hiking trials in NZ. This is the NZ tourism website.
Great Walks of New Zealand | 100% Pure New Zealand
Aotearoa New Zealand is a taonga (treasure). Whether you live in this land or are visiting, we ask you to make a promise to look after it for future generations.
Care for New Zealand | 100% Pure New Zealand
Taking responsibility for your litter is an important part of caring for New Zealand. Leave no trace. Reduce your Waste.
Keep New Zealand clean | 100% Pure New Zealand
Booking beds in huts and cabins on the great walks and other walking tracks in New Zealand
Huts, campsites, Great Walks, cabins and lodges terms and conditions