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.
New Zealand is renowned for its breathtaking nature, unique flora and fauna, Maori culture and friendly locals. However, did you know that it also features vibrant cities? New Zealand's largest cities are Auckland and Wellington on the North Island, and Christchurch on the South Island. Discover Auckland's relaxed coastal living vibe, Wellington's award-winning restaurants and Christchurch's beautiful parks and gardens.
Which New Zealand cities should you visit?


Auckland
Auckland is New Zealand’s largest city and a vibrant, multicultural hotspot. The ‘City of Sails’ is surrounded by the Hauraki Gulf, Waitemata and Manukau Harbours and has over 40 extinct volcanoes in the region. The highest volcano is Mount Eden which offers 360-degree views over Auckland City and the Hauraki Gulf.
From the rugged coastline, easily accessible islands, diverse food and culture scene and rugby matches at Eden Park, there is much to see and do.


Wellington
Wellington is a vibrant and compact city, bursting with an array of things to see and do. It is located at the bottom of the North Island, overlooking Cook Strait, and the spectacular hills and valleys of the South Island. Despite its size, Wellington has the highest ratio of cafes per person in the world. Pop by Wellington’s bohemian Cuba Street for a superb range of cafes, vintage shopping and a local weekly market (Friday nights).
Visit Te Papa, New Zealand’s national museum and gallery, and soak up Maori culture, art heritage and fascinating history. Or take the cable car to the botanical gardens for a cosy picnic. Take a stroll along Wellington’s waterfront and Oriental Bay. Climb Mount Victoria for views over the city, or check out the parliament building - The Beehive.


Christchurch
Christchurch is one of the world’s most unique destinations. It has found a balance between mixing modern innovation with history and heritage. Discover street art, a diverse culinary scene and lush green spaces.
Christchurch is the ideal base for South Island exploration, with the Banks Peninsula within reach, as well as the stunning Southern Alps and Canterbury Plains. The Canterbury region offers a journey into quaint towns, luxurious retreats and thrill-seeking adventures. Pamper yourself with a thermal soak at Hanmer Springs, or head to Kaikoura to spot whales and indulge in the freshest seafood.

Dunedin
Welcome to the best small city in Aotearoa (New Zealand), which has everything a big city has to offer, including culture, museums, bars, pavement cafes and restaurants, and shopping. Yet it also has the character of a small town where people are friendly and it is easy to navigate and park in order to explore. Enjoy a coffee or an award winning Emerson’s craft beer in the Octagon in the city centre while you plan your day.
A short distance from here are many attractions worth a visit: The world-class Botanical
Gardens and nearby Baldwin Street, the steepest street in the world, watch the surfers at
St Clair or take a long walk to Tunnel Beach.


Where to stay?
Make your trip extra special by experiencing a unique stay from our large collection of hand-selected accommodations located in New Zealand. Your travel specialist will match you with accommodation that suits your wants and needs. A journey where your accommodation is an experience in itself.


Discover more about New Zealand
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Regions of New Zealand
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3 weeks of the South Island
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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
Why book with us?
- A well-designed holiday, just for you
- Small-scale accommodations run by friendly local hosts
- Carefully recommended activities based on your interests
- A travel tempo and driving distances that match your needs
- Ingrained sustainability in all facets of your holiday
- 30 years of experience in travel to New Zealand
Let's design your holiday together
We'll take the time to get to know you to match your fully bespoke holiday with your pace, your interests, and anything you desire. Combined with first-hand, local knowledge, you'll receive a mapped-out itinerary from us - but the process isn't done until you are 100% satisfied. We take care of every detail, so you can focus on relaxing, rejuvenating and reconnecting with yourself and the world around you. Get in touch to get started now.
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
We would love to discuss your dream journey