The local food culture of New Zealand is incredibly diverse and influenced by the country's indigenous Māori heritage, European settlers, and a range of international culinary influences. Here are some key aspects of New Zealand food you should know about.
The Māori make up 14 percent of the total population in New Zealand, and their traditions are a crucial part of the authentic “Kiwi” culture and history. In order to truly immerse yourself in New Zealand, first, learn some facts about Māori culture.
This 10-day immersive adventure explore the best locations on the North and South Islands of New Zealand. This itinerary is carefully planned to provide visitors with a glimpse of what the country is really like, beyond the tourist hot spots. Follow this route for absolutely awe-inspiring destinations, iconic landscapes, off-the-beaten-path locations, hidden gems, and unimaginable landscapes, with unique cultural experiences scattered throughout.
Known for its cultural diversity, music, food, and arts scene, Auckland is a beautiful coastal city located over volcanic lands in the country of New Zealand. The Hauraki Gulf is filled with activities for everyone, from the amazing vineyards and olive groves in Waiheke Island to kayaking, sailing, surfing, or fishing in the sparkly-blue waters. Learn more about one of the most popular activities in the Auckland area: Whale watching.
New Zealand is renowned for its bio-diverse wilderness and hiker-friendly infrastructure. With 13 national parks and thousands of protected areas and reserves that together make up over 30% of the nation’s land area, there are countless nature trails covering coastlines, river valleys, forests, farmlands, mountain ranges, and glaciers. The options are practically never ending! Here are some of the best trails and regions for hiking the South Island of New Zealand:
In addition to its abundance of natural beauty New Zealand also boasts a unique culture with a fascinating history. Before embarking on your bucket-list journey to these remote Pacific Islands, be sure to make the most of your time there by getting in to the kiwi mindset ahead of time! Here are 5 books to read on New Zealand.
After calling Aotearoa (the Māori name for New Zealand) home for almost two years, I've experienced my fair share of nature's great wonders. Here, I list my 10 must-see spots for nature lovers in New Zealand from a locals’ perspective. No doubt after reading through the following you’ll understand New Zealand’s status as the most naturally beautiful country in the world!
As an introverted and typically solo or couple traveler, I was a bit nervous to sign up for a small group trip for the first time. When I joined up to travel with Traverse Journeys on their trip to New Zealand all my worries were squashed and I am now a firm believer that small group travel is ideal for anyone and a great way to travel, and travel responsibly.
With its 9400 miles of coastline, New Zealand is no stranger to sealife landing on its shores. We interviewed our community partner Project Jonah to learn more about how they care for the coastlines, particularly in response to stranded dolphins and whales that land in a critical situation once out of their marine environment. Here’s what they shared with us:
