Custom Travel Itineraries to New Zealand since 1990
Flying to New Zealand from the USA is surprisingly convenient. Several airlines offer non-stop flights, particularly from West Coast cities like Los Angeles and San Francisco.
At The Best of New Zealand, we design tailored, luxury travel experiences to New Zealand. Learn what you need to know before you go, including flights, seasons, packing tips, safety, and local etiquette, so you can explore New Zealand with confidence.
New Zealand’s opposite seasons offer something exceptional year-round:
A vast majority of flights from the USA and Canada will land into Auckland International Airport. Our team has worked closely with Air New Zealand for many years and we will handle airline ticketing for a majority of our clients. In fact, other travel agencies will book ticketing using our services in order to take advantage of the service Air New Zealand provides to their clients.
Air New Zealand is our preferred carrier for a few reasons:
Direct flights are more accessible than you might think. Here are a few nonstop options from major U.S. cities:
Connecting flights are available from most cities via the West Coast.
Jet-lag tip: Book an overnight flight and spend your first day outdoors upon arrival to adjust quickly.
Except for multi-generational family groups and multiple couples who will frequently travel together, most of our trips are self-drive. We provide rental vehicle as part of our booking services for you and will align vehicles to be ready in more remote locations as you hop around the country on domestic flights.
In certain areas of New Zealand we will also use car services either in combination or as a replacement to a rental vehicle. Where it makes the most sense we will often combine a Meet & Greet services in airports and then touring prior to check-in.
Additionally, we will often arrange for guides and tours to meet you at your accommodations. Our goal is to reduce the amount of time you experience New Zealand passing by you from inside of a car window.
Getting around is seamless and scenic:
Drive on the left with a valid U.S. license (up to 12 months).
Domestic flights link all major cities.
Cook Strait ferries offer breathtaking views.
Luxury travel options include private drivers and helicopters.
Connectivity:
eSIMs & SIM cards at airports and local shops
Reliable providers: Spark, Vodafone, 2degrees
Wi-Fi widely available in hotels and cafes
NZeTA required for U.S. travelers (apply online).
Conservation levy (IVL) must be paid.
No vaccinations required.
World-class healthcare is available, even in remote areas.
Travel insurance is highly recommended, especially for adventure seekers.
New Zealand’s climate can be unpredictable:
North Island: Mild and subtropical
South Island: Crisp summers, snowy winters
Essentials to pack:
Merino or fleece layers
Quality walking shoes
Sunscreen and hat
Type I power adaptor (230V)
“Four seasons in one day” is a common Kiwi saying. Layers are key.
NZD$
Currency: New Zealand Dollar (NZD)
Cards accepted nearly everywhere
Tipping not expected but appreciated for exceptional service
Luxury perks:
Boutique hotels, exclusive lodges, and 5-star resorts
Private culinary tours and guided experiences
Helicopter rides, yacht charters, and wellness retreats
Cultural tips:
Kiwis are welcoming and friendly
Use basic Māori phrases like “Kia ora” (hello/thank you)
Declare all food and outdoor gear at customs—biosecurity is taken seriously
Top 5 Safest Countries (Global Peace Index)
Low crime rate; standard precautions advised
Emergency number: 111
Travelers consistently report feeling safe and welcomed throughout the country.
Feeling overwhelmed by the details? You’re not alone. Planning a New Zealand getaway, especially one tailored to your preferences, can be complex. That’s where we come in. Whether you’re looking for luxurious stays, scenic drives, or unforgettable excursions, our team of experts is here to handle the logistics so you can focus on the experience. Contact us today!
Hawke’s Bay sits on the eastern coast of New Zealand’s North Island, and most visitors pass through without stopping long enough to see what the region offers. That is a mistake worth correcting. From ancient geological formations to one of the world’s most accessible wildlife colonies, Hawke’s Bay rewards travelers who take the time to go beyond the obvious.
These 5 experiences are worth building your itinerary around!
Read more through link in bio.
#hawkesbay #newzealandguide #napiernz #luxurytravel #bestofnztravel
At 399 meters, Te Mata Peak gives you views across farmland, coastline, and the ranges beyond. Drive, walk, or cycle to the top. Either way, the view is worth it. This is the one stop in Hawke’s Bay that puts the whole region in perspective.
#tematapeaknz #newzealandwalks
At 399 meters, Te Mata Peak gives you views across farmland, coastline, and the ranges beyond. Drive, walk, or cycle to the top. Either way, the view is worth it. This is the one stop in Hawke’s Bay that puts the whole region in perspective.
#tematapeaknz #newzealandwalks
Napier is one of the most complete Art Deco cities in the world. Once a year, the whole city commits to it. Music, vintage cars, exhibitions, and architecture that stops you mid-stride. If you time your visit right, this is an experience unlike anything else in New Zealand.
#napierartdeco #visitnapiernz #napiernz #nztouring
Napier is one of the most complete Art Deco cities in the world. Once a year, the whole city commits to it. Music, vintage cars, exhibitions, and architecture that stops you mid-stride. If you time your visit right, this is an experience unlike anything else in New Zealand.
#napierartdeco #visitnapiernz #napiernz #nztouring
Nearly two meters of wingspan, up close, with no fence between you and them. The gannet colony at Cape Kidnappers is the largest accessible mainland colony in the world. Tours run September through April, so the timing of your trip matters. Worth planning around.
#gannetcolonynz #birdtour
Green hills, open coastline, and enough space to feel like you have the beach to yourself. Waimarama is about 40 minutes south of Napier and one of the most scenic stretche
Top 10 Honeymoon Experiences in New Zealand
New Zealand is one of the world`s great honeymoon destinations, and not because anyone designed it that way. It just is. The scale of it gets you first. Those sudden views at the top of a ridge, a fiord opening up around a bend, a sky so full of stars it feels impossible.
From glowworm caves to glacier overnights, here are the top 10 experiences worth travelling for. Link in bio to read more!
#honeymoonexperiences #newzealandtravel #luxurytravelnz #newzealanditinerary #thebestofnz
https://thebestofnewzealand.com/activities/wine-cuisine/new-zealand-honeymoon-10-most-romantic-experiences/
Air New Zealand to Launch Sleep Pods in Economy Cabins
If you have ever dreamed of lying flat on a long-haul flight without paying for a business class ticket, Air New Zealand is about to make that dream a reality. The airline is set to launch the world`s first economy sleep pods, called the Economy Skynest, on select ultra long-haul flights from November 2026.
Read more through our link in bio.
📸 Air New Zealand
#airnewzealand #travelnewzealand #visitnewzealand #explorenewzealand #bestofnztravel
https://thebestofnewzealand.com/activities/wine-cuisine/air-new-zealand-to-launch-sleep-pods-in-economy-cabins/
Craggy Range Signature Gourmet Escape: Hawke`s Bay Luxury
If you`ve been dreaming of a New Zealand escape that goes far beyond a standard hotel stay, Craggy Range in Hawke`s Bay has crafted something truly special. Their Signature Gourmet Escape is a fully all-inclusive, multi-day experience that wraps world-class dining, wine, and luxury lodge living into one seamless package.
Read more through link in bio.
📸 Craggy Range
https://thebestofnewzealand.com/activities/wine-cuisine/craggy-range-signature-gourmet-escape-hawkes-bay-luxury/
Lake Tekapo, New Zealand: What to Do, See, & Experience
Lake Tekapo is one of those rare destinations that genuinely exceeds expectations. Tucked into the heart of New Zealand’s South Island, the lake stuns visitors with its impossibly turquoise waters while the jagged peaks of the Southern Alps rise dramatically behind them. But beyond its picture-perfect looks, Tekapo rewards you at every hour of the day.
Read more through our link in bio.
📸 GoTekapo
#laketekapo #luxurytravelnz #newzealandvacations #nzactivites #bestofnztravel
https://thebestofnewzealand.com/travel-tips/lake-tekapo-new-zealand-what-to-do-see-experience/
Tucked at the foot of Mount Aspiring National Park on New Zealand’s South Island, Wānaka packs paragliding, canyoning, jet boating, skydiving, mountain biking, and so much more into one jaw-droppingly beautiful corner of the world. Whether you’re a first-timer looking to push your limits or a seasoned adrenaline junkie, Wānaka delivers the goods every single time.
Link in bio to read more.
📸 Wanaka Paragliding
#luxurytravelnz #newzealandadventures #wanakaadventures #visitwanaka #bestofnztravel
Some places in New Zealand are simply better by boat 🛥️
From cruising through Doubtful Sound to island hopping in the Bay of Islands, exploring by water gives you access to hidden coastlines, wildlife encounters, and unforgettable views.
Ready to see New Zealand from a new perspective? Read more through link in our bio.
📸 Miles Holden
#newealandtravel #luxurytravel #discovernewzealand #adventuretravel #bestofnztravel
The Ultimate Glenorchy Adventure with Heli Glenorchy
At the northern edge of Lake Wakatipu lies Glenorchy, a small town surrounded by dramatic peaks and crystal-clear rivers. The landscape is so stunning that it inspired scenes from Middle Earth. If you want to experience this part of New Zealand at its best, look beyond the walking tracks. The most exciting way to see it is from both the sky and the water....
📸 Heli Glenorchy
