New Zealand

Why Choose an Escorted Holiday to New Zealand?

New Zealand is one of those destinations that exceeds expectation even when expectation is already high. The landscapes are genuinely extraordinary: the fiords of Milford Sound, the geothermal plateau of Rotorua, the Southern Alps, the volcanic peaks of the North Island, and coastlines that range from surf beaches to sheltered harbours of remarkable calm. The country is also small enough in population - five million people across two islands - that the natural environment feels immediate and accessible in a way that larger countries cannot match.

The practical argument for a guided tour is straightforward: New Zealand is a long way from the UK, the internal distances are significant, and getting the most out of both islands in a single trip requires an efficient itinerary with well-chosen stopping points. Our escorted tours are built to show you the best of both islands without the effort of hiring campervans, booking ferries and planning routes from scratch. For British-Indian passengers, New Zealand's large and well-established Indian community - particularly in Auckland - means that Indian food, temples and cultural familiarity are readily available.

Indian-Friendly Features on Our New Zealand Tours

• Indian dinners included on most multi-day tours, with excellent Indian restaurant options in Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch
• Vegetarian options widely available throughout New Zealand, one of the world's most accommodating countries for plant-based dining
• No beef or pork compulsory in any included meals
• Indian community well established in Auckland, with Papatoetoe and Manukau hosting Indian restaurants, temples and grocery shops
• India departure add-on available on some itineraries - contact our India team on 1800 123 181 181

Best Time to Visit New Zealand

New Zealand's seasons are reversed from the UK.

December to February is the southern hemisphere summer: warm temperatures, long days and the best conditions for Milford Sound (relatively drier), the Queenstown adventure activities and beach destinations.

March to May is autumn: the beech forests turn gold, the main sites are less crowded than summer and the weather remains settled. A very good period for touring.

June to August is winter. The South Island's ski season (Queenstown, Wanaka) is a draw for winter sports enthusiasts; the North Island is mild. Milford Sound receives more rain in winter but is hauntingly beautiful.

September to November is spring: excellent conditions across both islands, lambs in the paddocks and the crowds of summer not yet arrived.

Popular Destinations Within New Zealand

Auckland - New Zealand's largest city, on an isthmus between two harbours. The Sky Tower, the waterfront and the day trip to Waiheke Island (vineyards, beaches). A good base for the Northland and Coromandel.

Rotorua - the geothermal heartland of the North Island. Boiling mud pools, geysers, Maori cultural performances and hangi feasts. The Maori culture here is presented authentically and with real depth.

Queenstown - the adventure capital of the Southern Hemisphere. Bungee jumping, jet boating and white-water rafting on one side; wine country in the Gibbston Valley and the Remarkables ski area on the other. Also the gateway to Milford Sound.

Milford Sound - the most visited of Fiordland's fiords. Sheer rock walls dropping into dark water, waterfalls cascading from every cliff face, and seals and dolphins in the water. A two-hour cruise is the standard visit; an overnight vessel gives a completely different experience.

Christchurch - the South Island's main city, still rebuilding after the 2011 earthquake with real ambition. The Botanic Gardens, the Canterbury Museum, the restored Cardboard Cathedral and the Avon River punting.

The West Coast and Franz Josef Glacier - the drive down the West Coast of the South Island, with the Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers descending from the Southern Alps almost to sea level. One of the great scenic drives in the world.

Practical Information

• Currency: New Zealand Dollar (NZD)
• Language: English and Te Reo Maori (both official); no language barrier for UK travellers
• Time zone: NZST (GMT+12) in winter, NZDT (GMT+13) in summer. 12-13 hours ahead of UK.
• Electricity: Type I plugs (230V). A Type I adapter is needed for UK devices.
• Tipping: Included in your Star Tours holiday price; tipping not customary in New Zealand
• India bookings: Call our India line free on 1800 123 181 181 (10am-7pm)
• ABTA & ATOL: All our New Zealand holidays are fully protected