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New Zealand is the perfect getaway no matter what type of traveller you are. From stunning wineries to active adventures, you can really have it all. In this guide, we'll take you through a few must-see Kiwi gems and give our top packing tips so you can travel in style!
1. Stay Where You Wine
If you're looking for a romantic getaway with your significant other, we can think of nothing better than a winery stay at Hans Herzog Estate in the Marlborough region.
A luxurious private cottage to waltz into after having a few glasses of Spirit of Marlborough Merlot-Cabernet, a gourmet food experience to seduce your senses in the evening and a king bed to fall into at the end of the day. Oh and let’s not forget the scrumptious breakfast basket delivered to your door in the morning - it almost sounds too good to be true.
2. Fall into a Food Coma & Support Local
Ponsonby Central in Auckland is a little hidden gem; whether you want to get your sip on or try a new cuisine, you're sure to find something that will suit your fancy at one of the more than 20 bars and eateries.
And we usually wouldn’t encourage you to shop elsewhere but we’ll give you a free pass to support local and shop till you drop in one of Ponsonby’s quaint little boutiques; just make sure to let them know that they should pay Blue Bungalow a visit when they’re in Brisbane.
3. Visit a Hobbit village
Yes, you’ve read that right! If you’re a fan of The Lord of the Rings or The Hobbit movie series, you will definitely want to explore the Hobbiton Movie Set on North Island.
Take a few hours to wander around and take in the enchanting scenery; we can guarantee that you’ll feel far, far away from home.
4. Experience an Adrenaline Rush
I don’t know about you but we feel like we’ve had a pretty uneventful year - we need some excitement in our lives!
Whether you prefer shooting down ski fields, conquering hiking trails or jumping off a bridge with a bungee cord (hey, it’s cheaper than therapy), if you’re looking to get your thrills on, Queenstown is the place for you.
After a long activity-filled day, treat yourself to a few hours at the Onsen Hot Pools and make a booking at Botswana Butchery for a cozy dinner experience complete with lake views and roaring fireplaces.
5. Cruise Through Waterfalls
The road to get to Milford Sound is as magical as the destination! Make sure that you plan a stopover at Mirror Lakes for a scenic walk with breathtaking views of the Earl Mountains reflected in the crystal clear waters (or a selfie - we won’t judge). Then stop at Monkey Creek for a taste of its magical water - spoiler alert, it won’t give you superpowers but it’s icy cold and straight from a glacier.
Once you get to Milford Sound, treat yourself to a boat cruise through the waterfalls and remarkable rugged mountain landscape - and make sure to pack a rain jacket as we hear it’s even more beautiful when it pours!
6. Sink Into a Mud Bath
If you can look past the smell, Rotorua is famous for its geothermal activity and home to hundreds of geysers, mud pools, volcanic lakes and hot springs.
Whether you prefer slathering yourself in mud followed by a dip in a sulphur pool at Hell’s Gate (how’s that for organic natural skincare) or booking a private alkaline mineral hot pool with a lakeview at the luxurious Polynesian Spa, we dare you to feel stressed!
And if a spa day is not your thing, go for a walk in the treetops over suspended bridges and platforms at Redwoods Treewalk - not your typical walk around the block.
Milford Sound, New Zealand. Photo by Lindsey Costa on Unsplash
Milford Sound, New Zealand. Photo by Lindsey Costa on Unsplash
7. Put Your Fitness To The Test
If you need to feel alive, look no further than the Queen Charlotte Track on South Island. You’ll need a good pair of hiking boots and a lot of stamina to complete this 72 kilometre, 3 to 5-day walking journey - but my, oh my, are the coastal views worth it!
But don’t forget that you’ll be in the Marlborough region, which means delicious food and amazing wine to celebrate your achievements (or drown your sorrows). And the best part? You can indulge at the end of every day as there’s accommodation located directly on the trail.
Blue Bungalow's New Zealand Style Capsule
Now that you've got your itinerary sorted, time to curate the perfect winter travel wardrobe! If you're wondering what to wear to New Zealand in winter, our advice is to master the art of layering and you'll stay comfortable no matter what the weather throws at you. Start with a good base layer, such as a modal long sleeve top and a pair of leggings, and build your outfit from there.
Here’s what we’d pack in our suitcase for an autumn or winter trip to New Zealand:
For more winter holiday outfits, be sure to check out our Winter Holiday Edit here!
If New Zealand is not on your travel bucket list yet you’re doing it wrong! Let us know in the comments below if you’d add anything to the list.
BB xx
