Given the distance from the UK and the incredible variety across both the North and South Islands, most visitors find that spending at least two weeks in New Zealand allows them to experience the country at a comfortable pace. A holiday of fourteen nights or more provides enough time to combine New Zealand’s major highlights, such as Rotorua, Queenstown and the glaciers of the West Coast, without rushing between destinations. Travellers with three weeks or more can enjoy a deeper exploration of both islands, including quieter regions like Northland, the Coromandel Peninsula, Abel Tasman National Park and the Otago Peninsula.

New Zealand is an excellent year-round destination, but the ideal time to travel depends on the holiday experience you want. The summer months from December to March offer warm weather, long days and perfect conditions for outdoor adventures, making this the most popular season for UK families and couples. Autumn, between March and May, brings clear skies and beautiful colours across the South Island, while winter from June to August is a favourite for travellers drawn to skiing, snowboarding and alpine scenery. Spring, between September and November, offers mild temperatures and blooming landscapes, creating a peaceful environment for those seeking a quieter holiday.

Flights from London to New Zealand generally take between twenty-four and twenty-six hours with at least one stop, usually in Asia or the Middle East. Although the journey is long, modern aircraft, well-planned connections and the opportunity for an optional stopover make the experience surprisingly manageable. Most travellers adjust to the time difference within a couple of days, particularly when they ease into their itinerary with a gentle start in Auckland or Christchurch.

Yes, UK travellers need to obtain a New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) before they arrive. The process is straightforward, completed online or via an official app, and approval is typically quick. Once granted, the NZeTA is valid for multiple visits over a two-year period. When you book through The Holiday People, we ensure you have clear guidance on how and when to apply so everything is completed smoothly ahead of your journey.

New Zealand consistently ranks among the safest and most peaceful countries in the world. Visitors enjoy clean, welcoming cities, friendly communities and a strong emphasis on outdoor living. Roads are well maintained, hiking trails are clearly marked and guided experiences are professional and well regulated. Families appreciate the relaxed atmosphere, the abundance of wildlife encounters and the wide range of nature-based activities suitable for children, while couples find reassurance in the country’s calm, easy-going lifestyle.

Costs can vary depending on the season, accommodation style and the regions included, but travellers often find New Zealand comparable to the UK in terms of dining and general expenses. Booking a tailor-made holiday means that many elements such as flights, transport, guided activities and accommodation can be organised and paid for in advance, giving you clarity over your full trip cost. Families particularly appreciate the number of free or low-cost experiences, including lakeside walks, geothermal parks, national reserves and beaches.

New Zealand does not typically require vaccinations for UK visitors, and it is known for having a very high standard of healthcare. Tap water is safe to drink in almost all regions and food standards are excellent. The main health consideration for many travellers is the strong sun, especially in the South Island, where UV levels can be higher than in the UK. Sunscreen, hydration and sensible protection during peak daylight hours are usually all that’s required for a healthy and comfortable trip.

New Zealand is famously easy to explore, with domestic flights linking major regions, well-maintained roads and scenic routes that make self-drive holidays particularly rewarding. Many travellers choose to hire a car and enjoy the freedom to explore at their own pace, stopping at lakes, vineyards and viewpoints along the way. For those who prefer not to drive, The Holiday People can arrange private transfers, rail journeys, ferry crossings between the islands and a wide range of guided tours, creating a seamless holiday that fits your preferences.

New Zealand’s magic lies in its dramatic landscapes and the sense of calm and connection they inspire. Travellers can journey from geothermal valleys and Māori cultural sites on the North Island to the towering fjords, glaciers and mountain ranges of the South Island in a single holiday. Wildlife encounters, artisan food and wine trails, world-class hiking routes and the warmth of local hospitality create a holiday experience that feels both exhilarating and restorative. For many visitors, a holiday in New Zealand becomes one of the most memorable journeys of their lives, filled with the kind of scenery and moments that inspire you long after returning home.