New Zealand offers the ultimate escape for adrenaline junkies and nature lovers alike. There is much to see, do and experience in NZ. There's craft beer and unusual local favourite delicacies (abalone and sea urchin), world-class surfing opportunities and the interesting Maori culture…and that's just for starters.
While New Zealand isn't the cheapest destination to travel to, it will certainly be worth it. And with online travel booking sites offering cheap flights to New Zealand with leading carriers, you now have the opportunity to explore this beautiful country, without breaking the bank.
New Zealand is not a densely populated country, in fact, you will find little over 4.6 million people left to have a whopping 268 021 square km all to themselves. The population is somewhat scattered and inbetween the cities and towns you will find expansive forests, mountain peaks, beaches, lakes and valleys which make the country an oasis for the avid hiker.
This landscape also sets the backdrop for a myriad of adrenaline sports and activities, enjoyed by both locals and tourists in the country.
What to Expect When You Book Flights to New Zealand
New Zealand is a country that's known for its beautiful scenery and wildlife. When you think of New Zealand, think of lush greenery, jagged peaks, volcanoes, deep gorges and a serene atmosphere that's ideal for that much-needed getaway. For the outdoor and extreme sports enthusiasts there's much to enjoy too. You won't want to miss out on the opportunity to skydive, bungee jump, paraglide, sky jump, cave tube, canyon swing, zip-line, hang glide, mountain bike, white water raft, hike or ski. You can even roll in a gravity orb, visit the Agroventures theme park or embark on an exhilarating cave adventure.
The country of New Zealand is located in the southwestern Pacific Ocean. It is made up of 2 main islands, North Island and South Island, and approximately 600 smaller islands. The North and South islands are a distance apart and so travel to see attractions and places of interest need to be well planned prior to travel.
Travelers to the country should set time aside to discover some of the top cities which include Wellington (the capital), Auckland, Christchurch, Dunedin, Hamilton and Queenstown.
The People You Will Meet in New Zealand & The Things You Will See
The locals in New Zealand are called “Kiwis” and Maori culture is predominant. You will undoubtedly find the locals warm, welcoming and eager to show you what Maori culture is all about – and it's about more than face tattoos and bloodcurdling war dances! Tourists are welcomed to see the main-street meeting houses called “marae” and join in the various Maori feasts called “hangi”. The local Maoris also put on cultural performances on occasion to show off their traditional dancing, singing and war cries (haka).
A Few Things You Will Want To Experience in New Zealand
Below are a few experiences that visitors to New Zealand love to participate in:
Tea Tasting
Tea plantations, which are aplenty, are a major draw card for the country. When you visit a tea plantation you can visit the tea house, taste various teas and enjoy the gorgeous views of the rolling estates. The most popular to visit is the Zealong Tea Estate in Hamilton (North Island).
Hot Springs
Natural hot springs are also a must-see for anyone visiting the country and many of them won't cost you a cent. Spend a day resting and repairing at the hot springs of your choice. Free hot springs to visit include those at Hot Water Beach (Coromandel Peninsula, North Island), Wai-O-Tapu (Rotorua, North Island), Spa Park (Taupo, North Island) and Welcome Flat Hot Pools (Fox Glacier, South Island).
Hiking Trails
Hiking is a definite must for anyone who wants to see the true natural beauty that New Zealand has to offer. Both islands offer trails that range in difficulty from easy to very challenging. The most popular hiking trails include the Whanganui Journey, Tongariro Northern Circuit and Lake Waikaremoana Track on the North Island and Abel Tasman Coast Track, Heaphy Track and Milford Track on the South Island.
Caving
New Zealands cave systems are of some of the most complex in the world. While they are complex, they are also spectacular. Caving experiences range from glow worm grotto viewing, black water rafting (floating through caves), abseiling, climbing and more. The best caving opportunities can be found at Waitomo Caves on the North Island while the South Island offers many options to choose from in the Fiordland, Nelson and West Coast areas.
Canyon Swinging & Bungee Jumping
As New Zealand is the adventure capital of the world, no must-see list would be complete without some canyon swinging and bungee jumping. These action activities are highly sought after in New Zealand and available on both the North and South islands. Nevis Swing in Queenstown is the biggest canyon swing in the world. Shotover is also a popular canyon swing in Queenstown which offers a 200m swing with 60m free fall. The best bungee jumping spots are found at Nevis Bungy (Queenstown), Auckland Harbour Bridge and Thrill Seekers Canyon Bungy in Hammer Springs (South Island).
Book Cheap Flights to New Zealand and See The Top Sights
Glaciers, mountains and lakes abound on the South Island. Here's a few of the top sights to see:
- Milford Sound
- Abel Tasman National Park
- Fiordland National Park
- Mount Cook National Park
- Fox Glacier
- Franz Josef Glacier
- Routeburn Track
- Lake Wanaka
- Mount Aspiring National Park
- Coronet Peak Skiing
- Southern Alps
Modern city life and volcanic activity is what the North Island is known for. Below is a brief list of the top sights:
- Tongariro National Park
- Waitomo Caves
- Sky Tower
- Lake Taupo
- Bay of Islands
- Haku Falls
- Waiotapu Geothermal Reserve
- Cathedral Cove Marine Reserve
- Hot Water Beach
- Hobbiton Movie Set
- Auckland Harbour Bridge
- Rainbows End Theme Park
Book Your Flight to New Zealand's Welling International Airport
When you book international flights to New Zealand, you will land at the Wellington International Airport (WLG) which is located in the capital city of Wellington. The airport is a short 10 minute drive from the city centre and serves many leading international carriers, including the likes of Emirates and Qantas. Flights can be booked from Johannesburg and Cape Town to Wellington and the flight duration is around 16 hours and 20 minutes.
When To Book Flights to New Zealand
New Zealand's climate and weather is somewhat unpredictable. If you are expecting to participate in the various outdoor activities in the country, try booking flights during the summer which runs from December to February. The days are typically sunny and warm during these months.
New Zealand is just as beautiful in the winter which is from June to August. If you love to indulge in a bit of snow skiing, the winter is the perfect time for you to visit. Autumn (April & May) offers typically a mild climate and is perfect for those who enjoy outdoor strolls and hikes with colourful scenery to match.
Book Cheap Flights to New Zealand & Start Planning Your Trip Today
If you are planning a trip to New Zealand, take the time to search and compare flights with leading international carriers / airlines online. Make your next holiday one to be remembered – travel to and explore New Zealand next!
Martin Wynn
