New Zealand

Home of Middle Earth

New Zealand may be small, but it packs in more drama than countries ten times its size. Split between two islands, it’s a land of extremes: ancient forests and bubbling geothermal valleys, towering peaks and rolling vineyards, wild surf and peaceful inlets. The landscapes feel almost surreal, glaciers that tumble into rainforest, fjords that mirror the sky, and volcanoes dusted with snow. It’s no wonder The Lord of the Rings was filmed here. This really is Middle Earth. Isolated for over 70 million years, New Zealand is home to species found nowhere else, including the beloved kiwi. Whether you're looking for adrenaline, sipping flinty Sauvignon Blancs, or stargazing beneath southern skies, there's something about New Zealand that stays with you.

Map of New ZealandHighlights

1. Wine Country

2. The West Coast

3. Queenstown, South Island

4. Milford & Doubtful Sounds

5. Abel Tasman National Park, South Island

6. Rotorua, North Island

7. Bay of Islands, North Island

  • 1. Wine Country

    In the north, Hawke’s Bay offers full bodied reds under sunny skies. Down south, Marlborough is king of Sauvignon Blanc, and Central Otago grows some of the world’s best Pinot Noir, surrounded by snowcapped peaks and glacial lakes. Wherever you go, the wine comes with a great view.

  • 2. The West Coast

    Wild and sparsely populated, the West Coast of the South Island is all about raw nature. See glaciers spill into rainforest, hike through limestone canyons, or fly into the blue ice fields. The Pancake Rocks at Punakaiki are worth a detour, weathered by sea spray into surreal formations.

  • 3. Queenstown, South Island

    Up in the Andrean cloud forest, everything feels a bit dreamlike, misty trails, hanging orchids, birds you’ve never seen before flitting through the canopy and at night, insects and geckos that glow with internal iridescence. From Mashpi Lodge, you can literally do aerial biking through the treetops, hike to waterfalls, or visit a working research station. Evenings are for frog spotting, and mornings begin with coffee, birdsong and counting hummingbird species, there are over 130 species!

  • 4. Milford & Doubtful Sounds

    Deep in Fiordland, these fjords are all moody skies, sheer cliffs, and mirror still waters. Milford is iconic, but Doubtful feels even more remote. Cruise or kayak through the mist, spot seals and dolphins, and listen to the silence. It’s unforgettable.

  • 5. Abel Tasman National Park, South Island

    Golden beaches, turquoise water, and coastal tracks, Abel Tasman is where you come to slow down. Hike the scenic coast trail, kayak into hidden bays, or just swim and unwind. The weather’s mild and the light is beautiful year round.

  • 6. Rotorua, North Island

    Rotorua feels like a geothermal wonderland, steam rising from the earth, bubbling mud pools, and geysers that burst from the ground. Pair that with rich Māori heritage and you have a place that’s both deeply cultural and wildly active. Don’t miss the forest trails or a soak in the hot springs after a day outside.

  • 7. Bay of Islands, North Island

    With over 140 islands, hidden coves, and great sailing, the Bay of Islands is a perfect intro to New Zealand’s coast. Swim with dolphins, fish offshore, or learn about Māori culture in Russell. It’s laid-back, beautiful, and easy to explore by boat.

A Few of Our Favorite Experiences

  • Rod, Reel, Relax

    The pristine waters are teeming with trophy-sized trout and snapper, set against a backdrop of breathtaking views.

  • Hike Your Heart Out

    Tackle the Tongariro Crossing or climb Roy’s Peak. Trails range from gentle walks to serious alpine climbs, and all come with spectacular payoffs.

  • Hover Like a Bird

    Helicopter in the best way to access pristine glaciers, secret beaches, or remote trails.

  • Swing Away

    There’s no shortage of world class golf courses to help you get outside and play.

  • Push Your Limits

    Skydive, canyon swing, bungee jump, zipline, and raft white water.

  • Visit Middle Earth

    Visit the real life Shire in Hobbiton or hike through epic filming locations scattered across both islands.

  • Raise Your Gaze

    Drift beneath a ceiling of glowworms in Waitomo … quite, eerie, and completely magical!

  • “We built an itinerary that matched my budget and hit the places I was interested in. Before departure, I received a very detailed booklet describing everything related to the trip—the most comprehensive tome I’ve ever seen for any trip I’ve taken in my life.”

    Dan F.

  • “EXPLORE thought of and arranged just about every detail. It went very smoothly.”

    Gail B.

Where We Stay

  • Huka Lodge, Taupo

  • Blanket Bay, Queenstown

  • Cape Kidnappers, Hawke's Bay

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