Why New Zealand should be on your 2026 bucket list

Big variety in a small country

New Zealand is easy to travel around and offers more variety in a short space than almost anywhere else. Within hours, you can go from alpine peaks to rolling vineyards and on to the coastline. The South Island’s West Coast, for example, takes you past glaciers, rainforest, and beaches all in a single drive, while the North Island puts geothermal pools, volcanic landscapes, and modern cities within close reach of each other. The country’s compact size means you don’t lose days moving between regions, so you can mix and match activities without feeling rushed. One day might be spent hiking or kayaking, followed by a vineyard lunch, while the next could be slower paced, enjoying coastal views and fresh seafood.

Stargazing like you’ve never seen before

Far from the glow of major cities, New Zealand is one of the best places in the world for stargazing. The country is home to several recognised dark sky reserves and sanctuaries, including Aoraki Mackenzie, where you can see the Milky Way stretching above you with the naked eye. Stewart Island and parts of the South Island also offer the chance to spot the Southern Lights, which are rare for UK travellers to experience. Visiting in winter means longer nights and more hours under the stars. This is also when Matariki, the Māori New Year, takes place, marked by the reappearance of the Pleiades star cluster.

A Food and Wine Lover’s Paradise

New Zealand’s reputation for food and wine is well earned, and tasting your way through the country is part of the experience. The wine regions are internationally recognised, with Marlborough famous for Sauvignon Blanc and Central Otago producing some of the best Pinot Noir in the world. Many vineyards also offer restaurants where seasonal produce is paired perfectly with the local wines. Seafood is another highlight, with Marlborough’s green-lipped mussels, Kaikōura’s crayfish, and Bluff’s oysters each worth travelling for in their own right. Beyond fine dining, a strong farm-to-table culture ensures everyday meals feel fresh and locally inspired, whether it’s a lamb burger from a roadside café or a scoop of hokey pokey ice cream on a sunny afternoon.