Destination Deep Dive: New Zealand

New Zealand, or Aotearoa, meaning “the land of the long white cloud” in the language of the Indigenous Māori people, is a country that truly lives up to its name.

Stretching roughly 1,200 miles from top to bottom, its unique geography offers a vast array of landscapes with only a slight shift in latitude. On the North Island, there are lush hills, golden beaches, an expansive volcanic plateau, and rolling vineyards. The South Island unfolds an even more dramatic landscape — clear, blue-water inlets, snow-capped peaks, and wild fjords that seem untouched by time. Here, every turn of the road presents a new discovery, a new connection to the land, its people, and the spirit of adventure that pulses throughout New Zealand.

And the best way to soak it all in? On foot or by bike (or kayak!). There’s a reason why New Zealand has been called one of the best hiking destinations on the planet. From hiking along ridgelines to cycling coastal paths, each step (or pedal) brings you closer to the essence of New Zealand. With VBT Bicycling Vacations and Country Walkers’ expertise from local guides, you’ll gain a true sense of this island paradise, with its mix of awe-inspiring nature and vibrant Māori culture.

New Zealand’s South Island is a land of contrasts — soaring mountains give way to quiet coves, and dense rainforests unfold into fertile plains. From west to east, the terrain shifts dramatically, with each landscape more captivating than the last.

This rugged, remote part of New Zealand is best explored with the help of expert local guides. VBT Bicycling Vacations offers a bike-explore-connect style itinerary that blends biking and hiking routes to the island’s most stunning spots, all while being fully supported.

The South Island entices you to step off the beaten track — pedal along forested paths and coastal trails, walk the glaciers to witness their majesty up close, and even learn a bit about glaciology along the way. This is wilderness in its purest form, explored on two feet, two wheels, and wide-open wonder.

Along the way, you’ll encounter…

…a land that shifts beneath your wheels and walking shoes — leafy boulevards in Christchurch, where you warm up your cycling legs on your e-bike, give way to the wild West Coast, where rainforest whispers and melodic bird call echoes through the misty canopy.

Breathe in the salty tang of the ocean, mingling with coastal scrub — a scent that clings to you as you pedal quiet trails by the sea. In the forests, the air turns damp and earthy, thick with the smell of rain on moss and the ancient hush of towering rimu trees.

At Hokitika Gorge, the water glows an impossible shade of turquoise beneath a canopy alive with birdsong courtesy of beautiful birds found only on this island paradise. High above, on Arthur’s Pass, snow crunches underfoot and kea wheel overhead, their raucous cries echoing across craggy peaks. Listen closely and you might hear the tūī, its song a surreal mix of bell tones and human-like phrases — a voice from the bush that makes you stop and smile.

Book a helicopter ride and walk to the face of Franz Josef Glacier, where the air is sharp with cold and the ice groans as it shifts. At Lake Matheson, the scent of damp earth rises as you circle still waters that reflect the towering silhouette of Aoraki/Mt. Cook.

Paddle across black water on underground rivers, walk beneath a living ceiling of green, or simply exhale at the wilderness lodge tucked deep among the trees. After dinner, a glowworm walk turns the forest into a bioluminescent starry night sky.

Cycle through golden high country, past fields of sheep and into the alpine town of Wānaka, where you’re welcomed with a home-cooked lunch at a working farm. And in Arrowtown, the trail winds through gold-rush history and riverside quiet, the scent of wild thyme in the breeze, the mountains standing sentinel as your journey ends — but never quite leaves you.

Kiwis are passionate about their food, and New Zealand’s culinary scene is as diverse and vibrant as its landscapes. With a focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients, the country’s food culture invites you to indulge in “pasture-to-plate” experiences that champion sustainability and flavor.

Kai moana—seafood—is a must-try when visiting the city of Christchurch, where seasonal fish and shellfish offer a true taste of the ocean. Local favourites include the subtly sweet snapper and the firm, nutty-flavored gurnard. For a more down-to-earth experience, nothing beats classic, paper-wrapped fish and chips from a charming small-town shop.

But the flavors don’t stop there. Colorful fruits such as tamarillos, feijoas, and passion fruits are just the beginning of New Zealand’s unique offerings. Refresh yourself with local juices, sodas, or an inventive ice cream, and be prepared to be amazed by the creative flair of Kiwi foodies.

New Zealand is mostly temperate—think northern California to the Rockies—but be prepared for some changeable weather and varied terrain when you head outdoors. Pack your favorite layers, hiking boots, and waterproof gear, or shop local brands once you arrive.

There’s an amazing amount to do, but the magic often happens when you slow down and follow the rhythm of the place. Ka kite ano! (See you again!)

Best of all, you don’t have to sweat the logistics

Tours of New Zealand with VBT Bicycling Vacations and Country Walkers, provide everything you need for a seamless journey — your custom-fit VBT bike and helmet, bilingual local guides, daily GPS routes, a support vehicle, and luggage transport. Cultural experiences are woven into the itinerary, and a welcome reception sets the tone. You’ll even have the option to wear VBT-branded gear during your adventure — no packing necessary. All you need to bring is your sense of adventure.

For more travel experiences available from Xanterra Travel Collection® and its affiliated properties, visit Xanterra.com/stories.

Written by Guy Wilson-Roberts