At TravelEssence, we specialise in crafting custom-made holidays that take you off the beaten path and create memories to last a lifetime. We believe in connecting with the heart and soul of a place, introducing you to the locals who call it home. Engage in conversations with fascinating individuals who will share their stories, traditions, and way of life, leaving an indelible mark on your journey.
Are you ready to roam beyond the ordinary? Start your dream journey here. Experience a fully bespoke holiday, created by us and enjoyed by you. Stay with local hosts who warmly welcome you to their homes, at unique and special locations. Take advantage of our local knowledge and visit the places, others didn't know existed.
We sit down with all of our clients to personally discuss your wants and needs. We plan and organise everything in detail to create your absolute dream holiday. Feel free to contact us to discuss your holiday plans. Or attend one of our live and informative presentations to learn more.
The South Island
Go on a uniquely local journey through New Zealand’s mesmerising South Island. The south is renowned for friendly laid-back locals, rich with nature and wildlife, award-winning wineries, mountains, and national parks. Discover the natural beauty of Canterbury, the spectacular Fiordland National Park, the picturesque Lake Wanaka, the mountain ranges of Central Otago, the iced-glacier, a water wonderland, Kaikoura, and much more.
Why should you visit the South Island? The southern part of New Zealand features sublime nature with 14 national parks, 10 of the highest mountains, and 5 of the largest glaciers in the country. Discover glistening lakes, fiords, ski fields, golden beaches, farms, and charming small towns. Immerse yourself in the remarkable Maori culture, slow-paced southern lifestyle, and unspoiled remoteness. The South Island is sure to capture your heart.
3 weeks of the South Island
Would you love to visit some of the South Island's highlights at a relaxed pace? During this journey, you will see… read more
4 weeks of the South Island
New Zealand is best known for its volcanic landscapes, snow-capped mountains, ancient forests and friendly locals.… read more
National Parks in New Zealand
New Zealand is a paradise for varied nature, with 13 national parks in the North and South Island. This means… read more
New Zealand
New Zealand is a country right out of the most amazing fairy tales - a land of great contrasts and diversity, it… read more
Stay at unique accommodation in special locations
Explore the wild side of Banks Peninsula, a place that is renowned for its charming French influences, picturesque… read more
Are you a wine and nature lover? Then don’t miss a visit to Marlborough. A region with high sunshine hours and an… read more
Set on a hilltop in the rugged Catlins is a stylish holiday house with four bedrooms. Your hosts, Tracey and… read more
An architecturally designed lodge set high up on a ridge. Surrounded by 150 acres of farmland with views of the… read more
Experience local activities with Kiwi guides
Start your adventure with a bus trip through deep valleys, past lakes and towering cliffs of granite rocks to… read more
The Kepler Track is one of New Zealand’s 10 Great Walks. From tussock-covered ridgelines, alpine vistas to crystal… read more
With its golden beaches, native bush, volcanic activity and adventurous hiking trails, the Coromandel Peninsula is… read more
Experience the raw beauty of the vast and remote Doubtful Sound as you travel into the heart of Fiordland National… read more
Capture a panoramic view of Queenstown and the Southern Alps in a hot air balloon. Setting off at dawn, when the… read more
Connect with nature and wilderness in the Doubtful Sound, during an overnight kayak adventure. Doubtful Sound is… read more
Deep in the South Island is the region of Central Otago. This region holds the driest climate in the South Island.… read more
Discover more about New Zealand
Extra information
Ready for the holiday of a lifetime?
Discover a world beyond ordinary
At TravelEssence, we specialise in crafting custom-made holidays that take you off the beaten path and create memories to last a lifetime. We believe in connecting with the heart and soul of a place, introducing you to the locals who call it home. Engage in conversations with fascinating individuals who will share their stories, traditions, and way of life, leaving an indelible mark on your journey.
Contact us
Questions? Speak to one of our specialists by phone Mon - Sat 0900 until 2100. You can discuss your travel plans in detail where and when it suits you, also in the evenings and on weekends on a no obligation basis.