The South Pacific island nation of New Zealand is blessed with spectacular natural scenery and a friendly, laid-back way of life. Visitors who want to explore the country independently in comfort and privacy will appreciate the great range of New Zealand vacation rentals available in rural and urban settings.
Kiwi fun for kids: Sledding and a sojourn in Middle Earth
During the winter months, young visitors to New Zealand's ski resorts will find plenty to do. The family-friendly Turoa ski area on the North Island has a special kids' ski school, as well as scenic chairlift rides and sledding. Other snow resorts that are great for children include Mount Hutt, Cardrona, and Round Hill.
Young fans of the Lord of the Rings trilogy will also enjoy visiting some of the movie's iconic locations. A visit to Hobbiton on the North Island or the Weta Gallery in Wellington will fascinate the entire family.
Aotearoa's best attractions: Maori heritage and pristine nature
With its towering mountains and dramatic fjords, Queenstown, New Zealand's adventure capital, is a good base for exploring nearby mountain trails. It also offers a great assortment of extreme sports, including whitewater rafting, canyoning, and ziplining.
Travellers wanting to learn about New Zealand's Maori heritage will also enjoy visiting Rotorua on the North Island. Also, the traditional Maori village of Whakarewarewa offers visitors guided tours, cultural performances, and cooking demonstrations at the nearby geothermal springs.
Regular events in New Zealand: Quirky festivals and markets
Taking place each winter, the Matariki Festival is a celebration of New Zealand's Maori culture, specifically the Maori New Year. Held throughout the country, the festival features cultural performances, parades, markets, and children's activities.
Other popular annual festivals include the World Buskers Festival in Christchurch, Dunedin Fringe Festival, Pacifika Festival, and Taste of Auckland. Two of New Zealand's many popular weekly markets are the Queenstown Arts and Crafts Market and Wellington Harbourside Market.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the typical availability of vacation rentals in New Zealand?
At the moment, there are 75,806 vacation homes from 16 different providers in New Zealand.
What are the most popular vacation home amenities in New Zealand?
The most popular amenities for rentals in New Zealand include vacation homes with Internet, Pool, or Kitchen.
Are there pet-friendly vacation rentals in New Zealand?
If you're travelling with a dog, over 12% of vacation rentals in New Zealand are pet-friendly.
What's the best month to book a vacation rental in New Zealand?
The warmest time of year in New Zealand is January and February, with the nightly price of a vacation home starting at $60.