Flights from China to New Zealand

Discover New Zealand

Discover New Zealand

Why visit New Zealand?

New Zealand offers dramatic mountains, clear lakes, rugged coastlines, and laid-back cities in a compact setting. You can explore outdoor adventure, Maori heritage, and contemporary urban life in one trip.

What to expect

Expect friendly locals, easy-going towns, and world-class nature from Auckland and the Bay of Islands in the north to Queenstown and Fiordland in the south. Driving routes, hiking trails, and wine regions shape most journeys.

Plan your trip

Many travellers start in Auckland or Christchurch, then connect by air or road to regions such as Rotorua, Wellington, Queenstown, and Dunedin. New Zealand also serves as a relaxed gateway to explore the wider South Pacific.

Top experiences in New Zealand

Cruise Milford Sound or Doubtful Sound

Sail beneath towering cliffs and waterfalls in Fiordland National Park, often with seals and dolphins alongside your boat.

Explore Auckland and its harbours

Walk the waterfront, take a ferry to nearby islands, and enjoy panoramic views from volcanic cones around the city.

Soak in Rotorua and its geothermal landscape

See bubbling mud pools, colourful hot springs, and steaming geysers, then relax in a natural hot pool at day end.

Discover Queenstown adventure

Try jet boating, bungy jumping, lake cruises, or alpine hikes, all framed by Lake Wakatipu and the surrounding peaks.

Tour New Zealand wine regions

Sample cool-climate wines in regions such as Marlborough, Central Otago, and Hawke Bay, often at cellar doors with vineyard views.

Visit glow-worm caves

Take a guided boat or walking tour through limestone caves in places like Waitomo, lit by thousands of tiny glow-worms.

Drive scenic coastal and alpine routes

Follow winding roads along the Coromandel coast, through Arthur Pass, or down the West Coast for ever-changing views.

Experience New Zealand’s way of life

Getting around

Domestic flights link Auckland, Christchurch, Wellington, Queenstown, and regional hubs quickly, while self-drive is popular for flexibility on both islands. Long-distance buses and guided tours also connect key routes for those who prefer not to drive.

Local life & culture

You will find a relaxed daily rhythm, strong community ties, and a visible blend of Maori and European heritage in art, language, and public spaces. Smaller towns often centre life around local sports, weekend markets, and the outdoors.

Where to unwind

Unwind on beaches in Northland and the Coromandel, stroll lakeside promenades in Taupo and Queenstown, or hike short trails near most towns. Spa retreats and natural hot springs in Rotorua and Hanmer Springs offer a gentle end to active days.

A taste of New Zealand

National dishes & specialties

New Zealand is known for fresh lamb, green-lipped mussels, crayfish, and hoki or snapper prepared simply. Regions like Canterbury, Marlborough, and Hawke Bay showcase local produce, seafood, and fine wines.

Casual & modern dining hubs

In Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch, you will find relaxed cafes, bistros, and modern eateries serving influences from Europe, Asia, and the Pacific. Smaller towns often combine seasonal local ingredients with a friendly, informal style.

Signature & scenic dining

Across the country you can enjoy vineyard lunches, hilltop restaurants, and waterfront dining with harbour or lake views. Many lodges and resorts offer set menus that highlight local ingredients in intimate settings.

Retail therapy in New Zealand

Malls & lifestyle hubs

Major centres such as Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch, and Hamilton feature large malls with international brands, local fashion, and lifestyle stores. Many are combined with cinemas, dining, and family-friendly facilities.

Markets & local crafts

Weekend markets in Auckland, Wellington, and Nelson, as well as smaller towns, showcase artisan crafts, clothing, and design pieces. Look for jewellery, wool products, ceramics, and items inspired by local landscapes.

Evening retail scene

Central shopping streets in Auckland and Wellington stay active into the evening, alongside dining and entertainment. In tourist towns like Queenstown, boutique stores and galleries remain open later to match the night-time buzz.

Best time to visit New Zealand

Summer, from December to February, is peak season, with average temperatures around 20–25°C (68–77°F) in many regions and long daylight hours ideal for road trips, hiking, and coastal stays. Spring (September to November) and autumn (March to May) form the shoulder season, with averages of about 12–20°C (54–68°F), fewer crowds, and colourful landscapes. Winter, from June to August, is low season overall, though popular for skiing, with typical temperatures of 5–12°C (41–54°F) in many areas and colder conditions in alpine regions.

Frequently Asked Questions