Create new memories on the other side of the world

Discover the hidden secrets of New Zealand together

Close your eyes and picture yourself with your partner on your dream journey in New Zealand. Are you swimming in the clear blue sea? Wandering through ancient rainforests? Immersing yourselves in the culture of the Maori people? Kayaking through the fjords in Fiordland National Park? Spotting the elusive Kiwi bird? Exploring Auckland, Queenstown or Christchurch? Walking hand in hand through quaint villages? Doing anything your hearts desire? The possibilities are limitless.

Experience the renowned Kiwi hospitality

Kia ora! Experience what this truly means when welcomed by Kiwi friendliness. Travel at a relaxed pace in one of the world's safest and most friendly countries. Be astounded by the natural beauty and rich culture of New Zealand. Enjoy great adventures, stay with local hosts at unique locations and create new stories together.

A journey as unique as you are

Your journey to New Zealand should represent you as a couple and only you. Because we are specialists in the art of travel, you'll experience a bespoke holiday that is significantly yours. Are you ready to travel through New Zealand in a uniquely local way? Let’s put your dreams on paper.

A man and woman hugging on a mountain peak overlooking a huge lake
Create memories that will last a lifetime, from the North Island to the South Island

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 your partner and the world around you. Get in touch to get started.

What do you get from us?

"At TravelEssence, we don’t just plan your romantic getaway to New Zealand. We are with you every step of the way, from the moment you leave your front door to the moment you arrive home a changed person. We take care of every detail so you can focus on having the journey of a lifetime.”

Andrew Morten, Founder and New Zealander

Where can we stay?

At TravelEssence we focus on small-scale accommodation and personally know the local hosts renowned for their Kiwi hospitality. Picture a cosy log cabin nestled deep into the forests of one of New Zealand’s many national parks, where you unwind with your loved one in a hot tub under the Milky Way. Or relive your childhood as you make your way up the steps to an adventurous stay in the treetops.

A unique spot to experience the hidden gems of New Zealand and meet the locals

Wake up to sea views in Kaikoura, or simply enjoy a glass of wine with a barbecue on the veranda overlooking Auckland. Stay in unique accommodations that are an experience in themselves.

Spend a few nights in the remote Te Urewera Rainforest
Spend a few nights in the remote Te Urewera Rainforest
© TravelEssence
Be treated to pure luxury in our small-scale accommodations
Be treated to pure luxury in our small-scale accommodations

What can we see and do?

With the diversity of New Zealand, you can see and do just about anything your heart desires. Immerse yourself in the Maori culture with Indigenous guides. Spot the rare yellow-eyed penguin on a hike to the Caitlin Coast of South Island. Cycle along an old railway line, through tunnels and over bridges between Dunedin and Central Otago. Sail the waters as you spot whales, dolphins and albatrosses.

Authentic once-in-a-lifetime experiences with the locals

Don't fall for the tourist traps! Let your travel specialist know your interests and they will advise what is best for you as a couple. There are small-group activities available, ranging from easy-going to adventurous, or private tours for a more intimate experience. We can take care of every detail, so you just have to show up and enjoy an experience to look back on together for years to come.

Find the best views in Wanaka with a local guide
Find the best views in Wanaka with a local guide on the South Island

When is the best travel time?

New Zealand is a beautifully diverse country that is great for travel at any time of the year. During the shoulder seasons, spring and autumn, the temperatures are ideal for enjoying the outdoors. There are plenty of opportunities to take in the wonder of nature and immerse yourself in the culture.

Nature's open-air playground is waiting to be explored

Would you like to explore Auckland? Discover Mount Cook? Fly in a helicopter over the Franz Josef glacier? Hike one of New Zealand's great walks? Based on your specific interests, your travel specialist can advise you on the best time to travel and the best regions to discover.

Enjoy a picnic together next to New Zealand's many rivers
Enjoy a picnic together next to New Zealand's many rivers
© Hans Wijker

How long do we need in New Zealand?

You could spend months travelling the ever-changing landscape of New Zealand and not see the same place twice. For your holiday, the question becomes: "How long do we have?".

A great holiday comes with enough time to reset and get into a new rhythm. Rejuvenate yourself with the fresh air and reawaken your senses in pristine nature. No need to rush from highlight to highlight.

Travel at a relaxed pace

To venture deep into the depths of New Zealand and unravel the authentic Kiwi lifestyle, we recommend travelling at a relaxed pace for a minimum of six weeks. If you have slightly less time, your travel specialist can help you choose the best regions that suit your wishes.

Spot a Kiwi | New Zealand wildlife
Travelling at a relaxed pace is the best way to see New Zealand
© TravelEssence
There are so many hidden gems to discover

How do we travel around?

With every turn of the road, New Zealand’s landscape changes. A dramatic array of scenery that you won’t find anywhere else in the world. From coastal roads to panoramic rainforest passes, and awe-inspiring mountainous landscapes - New Zealand is best explored by car. Self-driving means you're able to reach places that group trips and campervans cannot.

Take advantage of our special deals and travel comfortably, complete with:

  • A spacious SUV
  • A navigation system
  • Air-conditioning
  • Full insurance and low fuel costs
  • Hire cars that are less than six months old
  • Safe and secure roads
  • A route with only a couple of hours between each location

Drive less, see more

At TravelEssence we know that a relaxed travel pace is the greatest way to see New Zealand. Your travel specialist will map out a route with short drives of a couple of hours and with two or more nights at each location, allowing you to explore each local area and get a true sense of where you are.

If you are thinking of renting a campervan, talk to us now and discover why driving in a rental car is the best way to see New Zealand.

Travel at a relaxed pace and enjoy the views in the Canterbury High Country
Travel at a relaxed pace and enjoy the views in the Canterbury High Country
Watch out for penguins on the Otago Peninsula!
Watch out for penguins on the Otago Peninsula!

Great flights and stopovers to New Zealand

Flying is a fun experience on its own. Nothing else makes you truly feel like you are embarking on a once-in-a-lifetime journey than stepping onto the plane. A comfortable flight makes all the difference, no matter which class you fly.

Take advantage of our first-hand experience and airline connections:

  • The best flight schedule
  • The most spacious seats in each class
  • A private HD display
  • A good selection of food and drinks for the journey
  • The best price
  • Carbon neutral flights each time

Take a break and enjoy a stopover

On your way, you can choose a stopover in Asia to break up the journey and add a cultural experience to your holiday. From the tropical vibes in Bali and world-class shopping in Singapore to the friendly locals on the Cook Islands and the cultural mecca of Hong Kong. The possibilities are limitless.

Premium Economy offers you that extra bit of comfort
Premium Economy offers you that extra bit of comfort
© Cathay Pacific
Beach in Bali | Stopover Australia holiday
Complete relaxation on a romantic stopover in Bali

Sample itineraries

You're unique; your journey to New Zealand will be too. Take a look at some favourite past trips to get inspired for your own journey. With holidays ranging from three to seven weeks based on various themes, you can change comfort levels, and add activities, rental cars, and flights to sense the possibilities that await.

Start your dream journey here

Are you looking for an all-inclusive package? Several different destinations and national parks? Or even a New Zealand honeymoon? Bring your ideas to us, take advantage of our local knowledge, and together we will create your unique, personalised holiday that is yours and yours alone. Get in touch with us here.

Frequently asked questions

Specialist knowledge means the details that need specific attention are always taken care of - you don't have to worry about anything. But of course, you may have a lot of questions right now as you get an idea of the possibilities that await you. Find the answers to your questions here. Or contact us for more information.

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10 of New Zealand’s best food & wine regions

White flowers, green vegetation, rocks and snow-capped mountains | New Zealand holiday

Should you visit the North Island or South Island?

Useful facts

Fiordland 17

Tourism can be great for the environment. With us, you make a positive difference.

Let's accentuate the positive, reduce the negative, and offset what's left.

Sustainability in action

Why book with us?

When you book with us, your travel specialist has only one goal: to create your dream holiday through New Zealand and to do it properly. You want someone in touch with the locals, someone with experience, someone well-versed in New Zealand expertise and service. You want a travel nerd that believes small details lead to big differences. That's us! Get in touch to make your dream holiday become a reality.

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.