Why We Travel to New Zealand This Fall
The most beautiful end of the world is a dream destination for many travelers - no wonder, the island state simply has everything that makes the hearts of adventurers beat faster: glaciers, fjords, volcanoes, but also sandy beaches to relax on and ancient Maori history to discover.
24 October 2023
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At the latest, since the filming of The Lord of the Rings, New Zealand has been a dream destination for many: massive mountain worlds and gigantic glaciers stretch into the present as if from another time; fjords, volcanoes and geysers invite expeditions, and in between there's a landscape that is infinitely wide and varied. The path ahead is the goal, and it leads from deep green rainforests to dreamlike sandy beaches to icy glaciers. However, you should bring enough time with you - or choose one of the two islands. Nature is more spectacular on the South Island, while the North is more densely populated and also offers big city flair.
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In the south, you start in Christchurch; the towns are cute and manageable. A popular destination are the Pancake Rocks, limestone formations jutting out of the sea; the Franz Josef and Fox glaciers, in turn, are perfect hiking destinations. If you want to, you can also book a helicopter flight over the ice fields. The next highlight is Milford Sound: a fjord that author Rudyard Kipling once called the eighth wonder of the world. When clouds pass over the water, the landscape is particularly mystical - without a doubt, it's one of the most mysterious and wild corners of the South Island.
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In terms of weather, however, you should be prepared: It rains a lot. With an average of 200 days of precipitation per year, the fjord is one of the wettest places in the world. The east coast of the South Island is ideal for a few relaxing days at the beach, but Lake Pukaki and Lake Tekapo, with their surreal colors, are also perfect recreational areas that can be easily explored by canoe.
Living history
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On the North Island there's more sunshine and with Auckland you also have a metropolis with skyscrapers, which is located in a subtropical climate. And you have many opportunities to get to know the Maori culture: The most beautiful is a hike in the national park Te Urewera with a Maori ranger, who makes the ancient history come to life in this lush rainforest.
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Today, around 14 percent of the total population has Maori roots - young New Zealanders are increasingly rediscovering these. The Maori's great closeness to nature is an important inspiration for the young generation, which has a great awareness of the climate. The basic rule for New Zealand is: less is more. It's better not to simply check off destinations, but to consider beforehand where your own priorities are - this is the only way to get into the flow of this unique country.
Where to Stay
Huka Lodge
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Picturesquely located on the banks of the Waikato River, this property combines luxury and nature experience.
Huka Lodge
271 Huka Falls Road, Wairakei, Taupō 3384, New Zealand
Tel.: +64 7 378 5791
Web: hukalodge.com
Price: Doubles from € 1147
The Lindis
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A luxury hotel near Queenstown yet in the middle of the wilderness, overlooking a breathtaking mountain landscape.
The Lindis
1490 Birchwood Road, Ahuriri Valley 9412, New Zealand
Tel.: +64 3 976 1589
Web: thelindisgroup.com
Price: Doubles from € 1281
Hapuku Lodge + Tree Houses
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Private balcony with sea and mountain views - the lodge was designed by architecture-savvy owners and built of local wood.
Hapuku Lodge + Tree Houses
State Highway 1 at Station Road, RD 1, Kaikoura 7371, New Zealand
Tel: +64 (03) 319 6559
Web: hapukulodge.com
Price: Doubles from € 543
The Farm at Cape Kidnappers
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East of the Hawke's Bay wine region, this farm is nestled between rolling hills and the wild sea.
The Farm at Cape Kidnappers
446 Clifton Road, Te Awanga, Hawke's Bay 4180, New Zealand
Tel: +64 6 875 1900
Price:Doubles from € 1508
Web: robertsonlodges.com
Where to Eat
Ahi.
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If you are looking for authentic New Zealand cuisine, this is the place for you. Cooked with the best local ingredients; it's perfect for vegetarians and vegans.
Ahi.
Commercial Bay Level 2/7 Queen Street, Auckland CBD, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
Tel: +64 225 244 255
Web: ahirestaurant.co.nz
Mr. Morris
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Gourmet temple in Auckland: The inventive, Pacific-influenced cuisine at this charmingly minimalist eatery has won numerous awards.
Mr. Morris
Excelsior Building, Corner of Galway &, Commerce Street, Britomart, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
Tel. +64 9 869 5522
Web: mrmorris.nz.com
Arbour
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Since 2015, the focus here has been on a relaxed ambience with innovative cuisine. The wine list is also impressive - vineyards line the northern tip of the South Island.
Arbour
36 Godfrey Road, Fairhall 7272, New Zealand
Tel.: +64 3 572 7989
Web: arbour.co.nz
This article appeared in the Falstaff TRAVEL issue Fall 2023.
