OUTLOOK RECOMMENDS
Do:
FOR A WORLD-FAMOUS SCENIC TRAIN JOURNEY…
Offering travellers a unique journey guaranteed to move you in more ways than one, Great Journeys New Zealand is a world-class railway experience that takes you through the country in beautiful, scenic style.
With expansive travel packages that highlight local gems, sit back and relax on an unforgettable adventure across the nation. From city breaks to a rural oasis, book your destination and let Great Journeys New Zealand take care of the rest.
Don’t miss this opportunity to experience a picture-perfect trip where you ride in luxurious comfort as sleeping volcanoes, cascading waterfalls, illuminated cities, quaint farmland, golden beaches, and snow-capped mountains pass you by.
Great Journeys New Zealand is here to bring breathtaking scenery directly to you, with the choice to build a dream itinerary or choose from a carefully curated selection of packages and tours.
The company offers three routes, including the Northern Explorer which winds through rolling meadows to the volcanic hinterlands of the north, the Coastal Pacific that voyages along the pristine Pacific coastline beneath white-peaked mountains, and the TranzAlpine where you traverse the magnificent Southern Alps.
Travel in style on the VIP WOW Train for a magical journey to 2025’s WOW Show and enjoy exclusive perks such as a goodie bag, gourmet meals, and the opportunity to see wearable art up close. Elevate your experience with Scenic Plus, a full-sensory exploration of the lands you travel through, which includes regional delicacies freshly prepared to fully immerse you in New Zealand cuisine and culture.
FOR AN OPPORTUNITY TO MEET THE WORLD’S SMALLEST PENGUINS…
Established in 1992, the Oamaru Blue Penguin Colony is a one-of-a-kind destination where visitors can meet the world’s smallest penguins whilst contributing to their long-term conservation and research programmes that allow the organisation to care for and learn about them.
With both day tours and evening viewings available, Oamaru Blue Penguin Colony provides guests with the opportunity to view the penguins, also called fairy penguins, in their natural environment.
The blue penguin, or the kororā, as it is referred to in the Māori language, is only approximately 30 centimetres tall, weighing around one kilogramme as a fully-grown adult. Whilst their lifespan is typically between eight and 10 years, some at Oamaru Blue Penguin Colony are as old as 21.
The destination is a tourism operation that has a strong research and conservation focus, with the core of its operation being a long-term sustainability programme that ensures the penguins are protected and the population achieves long-term viability.
For interested visitors, there are different viewing options available. The first is Day Entry, where you can view the penguins inside specially-designed nesting boxes and learn more about the organisation’s research.
Secondly, there is Evening Viewing General Entry, where you can watch the penguins arrive home from their day fishing at sea from the general viewing grandstand.
Finally, there is Evening Viewing Premium Entry, where you can sit only metres away from where the penguins arrive and cross into the colony.
No matter which option you choose, be ready to be captivated by nature and fall in love with the little blue penguins as they waddle about.
FOR A BLAST TO A GOLD MINING PAST…
Situated on the site of preeminent gold rush and sawmilling history, Shantytown Heritage Park is a replica town first opened over 50 years ago, consisting of 30 re-created historic buildings as seen in an authentic 19th-century gold-mining town.
One of the South Island’s most popular tourist attractions, Shantytown Heritage Park was started by those passionate about preserving history for all to see and continues to run on that same dedication.
With opportunities to view thousands of artefacts from the Victorian era, such as furniture, clothing, photographs, and more, alongside the option to embark upon a re-created narrow-gauge bush tram line, the park is perfect for guests of all ages.
FOR AN ELEVATED TRAVEL EXPERIENCE…
If you’re looking to cross the Cook Strait whilst enjoying sumptuous commodities such as delicious, made-to-order food, free movies, dog-friendly cabins, an outdoor exercise deck, stunning views, and activities crafted for kids, then Bluebridge Cook Strait Ferries is for you.
Having set sail across the strait for over 20 years, Bluebridge Cook Strait Ferries works tirelessly to ensure each guest has a unique onboard experience.
The company takes great pride in its hosting responsibilities, with each crew member being accommodating, kind, and helpful so visitors from all over the globe can fall in love with the process of getting there and back.
FOR A DESTINATION THAT WILL CHANGE YOU…
Meet Te Puia, one of New Zealand’s most magnificent geothermal wonderlands, where dramatic geysers, bubbling mud, and breathtaking native bush can all be experienced through personalised tours.
Promising sights that will forever change how visitors view things out there, Te Puia has invited guests from across the globe to explore the hidden magic of Te Whakarewarewa Thermal Valley for generations.
Offering a plethora of opportunities just waiting to be discovered, two of the most prominent are the New Zealand Māori Arts and Crafts Institute and the state-of-the-art Kiwi Conservation Centre, where you can get up close and personal with the country’s national treasure – the native kiwi bird.
FOR A WORLD-CLASS AQUATIC ADVENTURE…
An action-packed adventure that offers an unforgettable experience for everyone, Wellington Rafting is the supreme destination for a splashing time.
Experience the hidden gems of rivers in Wellington and Wairarapa, where you can paddle down white-water rapids whilst taking in the stunning and untouched New Zealand landscape.
With a plethora of different rafting options catering to all skill levels, Wellington Rafting is an epic way to bond with family and friends as you battle the rapids.
Throughout your journey, experienced river guides will be by your side to ensure there is as much safety as there is fun during your trip.
FOR A RELIABLE AND AUTHENTIC TRIP…
Offering premium buses, scenic ferries, and expansive tours, Fullers 360 allows visitors to experience world-renowned vineyards, distilleries, dining, nature walks, beaches, historic sites, and more through its reliable and adventurous travel offerings. Born out of a love for the beautiful Hauraki Gulf, the company is ready to unite travellers with a genuine, responsible trip.
FOR A TASTE OF A NEW SPIRITS HORIZON…
Blending innovation and tradition, No8 Distillery is based in Dunedin, New Zealand, and crafts award-winning gin made with foraged botanicals, locally sourced organic ingredients, and the purest spring water. Each sip seamlessly fuses time-honoured recipes with a modern distilling experience, making it a must-visit for drink lovers and appreciators alike.
FOR A MAGICAL SUBTERRANEAN ADVENTURE…
With three caves that make up the expansive underground network, Discover Waitomo offers a truly one-of-a-kind experience for visitors to bask in the brilliance of glow-worms up close, view ancient rock formations, and see the most spectacular brown, pink, and white stalactites and stalagmites in the region. Explore the caves for an enchanted and intimate travel experience.
FOR SCENIC MEMORIES…
Southern Alps Air
FOR A LIMITLESS ADVENTURE…
Christchurch Adventure Park
FOR A UNIQUELY ADORABLE EXPERIENCE…
Sleep:
FOR A ROMANTIC STAY IN ALPINE SCENERY…
Overlooking the stunning views of Lake Tekapo, Peppers Bluewater Resort offers a tranquil and secluded escape for those looking to indulge in the natural scenery and atmosphere of New Zealand’s Mackenzie Country. With endless options, the resort is ideal for those looking for luxurious memories that last a lifetime.
FOR GENUINE KIWI HOSPITALITY…
An intimate, family-run business since the 1980s, Lake Ōhau Lodge is discreetly cradled between the Ōhau Range and the Ben Ōhau Range, offering a genuinely high-country experience. With unbeatable views of the glistening lake and expansive mountains, the lodge is ideal for those looking to escape the hectic nature of everyday life and relax in natural bliss.
FOR A STAY WHERE RUGGED MEETS REFINED…
FOR ACCESS TO THE COUNTRY’S BEST ACTIVITIES AND HOSTELS…
FOR A PREMIER CAMPGROUND EXPERIENCE…
