PlanGo Travel to New Zealand

08/01/2025

🌍 Can I Visit Filming Locations from 'The Lord of the Rings' and 'The Hobbit'? 🎥✨

You absolutely can! New Zealand’s dramatic landscapes became the cinematic Middle-earth for Peter Jackson’s The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit trilogies, captivating audiences worldwide. These iconic locations span the length and breadth of New Zealand, allowing fans to experience the magic of Middle-earth and visit filming locations from 'The Lord of the Rings' and 'The Hobbit'.

Let's explore key filming sites up and down New Zealand, the specific scenes they represent, and the tours available for a closer look!

Explore the breathtaking filming locations from The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit in New Zealand, from Hobbiton’s iconic Shire in Matamata to the majestic landscapes of Queenstown and Glenorchy. Discover iconic scenes like Mount Doom in Tongariro National Park, Edoras in Mount Sunday, and the m...

31/12/2024

To our friends and travel whanau, we wish you an incredible 2025 filled with love, kindness and epic adventures!

I listened to my daughter say, 2024 was the plot and 2025 is the year to thrive! So with that in mind, we designed a new AI Travel Assist tool and offering FREE Travel Advice for the month of January as our gift to help you have the best experiences travelling New Zealand this year.
Travelling is a way to discover more about other cultures, sights, sounds, tastes and a way to meet new people.

Mostly, travel helps you grow as a person, there are times when it is challenging, rewarding and awe-inspiring - and moments where you say to yourself, "why didn't I do this sooner?".

Whatever you experience, you come back with a different view of the world around and a new step in becoming the best version of YOU - now is the time!

Ngā mihi o te tau hou - Happy New Year

🫶 LET'S THRIVE IN '25 🫶

22/12/2024

🎄🐚🌴 Meri Kirihimete from our Whānau to Yours 🩴🌊🌞
Ah, Christmas in New Zealand – where Santa trades his sleigh for a surfboard and the festive feast happens alfresco. With summer in full swing, the Kiwi Christmas is all about BBQs, good vibes, and that magical phrase, “bring a plate.” (No, we’re not asking you to bring your finest china – it’s Kiwi code for “rock up with some delicious food!”).

🍗 What’s Cookin’? 🍰
From glazed ham to potato salad and Grandma’s legendary bean salad (seriously, who’s got that recipe this year?), the table’s always a smorgasbord of delights. Salads of every description, perfectly sautéed asparagus, and yes, even the ill-fated gourmet orange carrots we’d all rather forget (retired to the “recipes we don’t talk about” list). And of course, the pièce de résistance: THE NEW ZEALAND pavlova. Is it dessert, or is it art? It is both but not Australian 😁

🎁 Christmas Day Playbook 🎄
For most Kiwis, the day kicks off with kids ripping into presents before sunrise, followed by a whirlwind of family visits, laughter, and food comas. Some brave souls start with a big brunch and then hit the beach, dive into afternoon cricket, or snooze under the Pōhutukawa trees. Dinner? Leftovers, naturally, because what’s better than cold ham and potato salad on a warm summer night?

Pro Tip: If you’re visiting friends with kids, batteries are the MVP gift. Forget fancy wrapping – show up with a stash of AAs or AAAs, and you’ll be the hero who saves the day (and the parents’ sanity). No one wants to witness Uncle Dave performing DIY surgery on a toy car for lack of batteries.

🌟 The Festive Feels 🌟
Christmas is prime time for catching up on family gossip (Who’s engaged? Who’s “finding themselves”? Who still hasn’t returned your Tupperware?). It’s also about bonding over stories of the “good old days” while Grandpa snoozes, and the kids mischievously tickle his nose with wrapping paper.
Sometimes the guitars come out for a sing-along after a few smart vinos followed by home karaoke and a year of apologising to the neighbours.

✈️ Flying Solo This Christmas? 🌍
To those spending Christmas alone, we’re sending you the warmest virtual hug – you’re an integral part of our community, and we’re so lucky to have you here. This is your sign to hit the beach, join a friendly café crowd, or stroll through a local park. You’re never far from a Kiwi smile and a cheerful “Merry Christmas!”

🦭 To Our Tourism Whānau 🐋
A massive shout-out to the incredible operators and their teams who keep the magic alive for travellers at this time of year. Your mahi doesn’t go unnoticed, and we’re endlessly grateful for the experiences you create. From our whānau to yours, we wish you a magical Christmas filled with sunshine, smiles, and success. Here’s to crushing it together in 2025!

This is our first Christmas with you! Thank you for being part of our travel whānau and cheers to a Kiwi Christmas filled with love, laughter, and a side of sunscreen. 🏖️🎅

✨ Kia pai tō wā whakatā ✨

21/12/2024

✈️ Melbourne to New Zealand - THE Christmas Holiday
Before you press play on The Holiday, why not plan your own?! 🎥
Trade the couch for an epic getaway! Think stunning sights, vibrant sounds, mouthwatering flavours, and a splash of Kiwi culture. 🌊🍴🌿

🎆 Bonus: Be part of the ultimate New Year’s party in New Zealand! 🎉🎶

📍Check out this itinerary and treat yourself to a holiday you’ll never forget. 🌟 Start packing—adventure awaits! 🧳✨

Let's Go!!!!!

24th December - Fly to New Zealand
Air New Zealand still has flights from $645 NZD - check your departing city!

Stay at - Auckland City Hotel
Rooms available from $200 a night - including New Year’s Eve!

Food and Entertainment
Adulting in Auckland - Eat, Drink & Unwind for tips on where to dine and great restaurants and cocktail bars
https://www.plangonewzealand.com/post/adulting-in-auckland-eat-drink-unwind

Christmas in the Heart of Auckland City
All the awesome events taking place in the city over the Festive Season;
https://heartofthecity.co.nz/christmas?gad_source=1&gclid=EAIaIQobChMIlKDJlr-3igMV-qRmAh3XFByhEAAYAiAAEgIJZPD_BwE

29th - 30th December - Bay of Islands
Bay of Island Small Group Tour & Cruise from Auckland (2-day) - ONLY 5 SLOTS AVAILABLE
This is an incredible tour from award-winning tour operators at Cheeky Kiwi
https://plangonewzealand.rezdy.com/654413/bay-of-islands-small-group-tour-cruise-from-auckland-2-day-excluding-accommodation

Overnight Accommodation in Paihia > Russell
Most of our recommended hotels are booked out at this time of year, but it is such an epic spot we have found some available
Pukeko Nest (Book this one!) or Titore Lodge on Russell

Read more about The Bay of Islands and Russell in this blog;
https://www.plangonewzealand.com/post/the-bay-of-islands-new-zealand-s-historic-paradise
You will LOVE it, we have been many times and still blown away at the beauty.
Book dinner at The Duke - best atmosphere! Everyone gets into the Festive season and people are really friendly.
https://www.theduke.co.nz/eat-and-drink/reservations

30th December - in Auckland
Enjoy the arts, culture and local history;
https://www.plangonewzealand.com/arts-culture
Definitely check out the All Blacks Experience!

31st December - Auckland Cruise & Waiheke Vineyard - with Explore
9:30am Tikapa Moana Whales Dolphins & Islands Cruise - Man O' War Stopover
More information on Man O’War
https://secure.exploregroup.co.nz/BookingCat/Availability/?Category=TMWD&agent=PLANGO
More info on Man O’ War
https://www.manowar.co.nz/?srsltid=AfmBOop0Qo3pFP8hnjBnkZZgl8XEvH2NpzcDQHy67isBFRwlpgkKEntG

New Year’s Eve - Auckland City
Fireworks are set to light up the SkyTower at midnight. It is one of my favourite places, next to Queenstown. Here is a map of all of the places to go and safety for travellers;
https://ourauckland.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz/news/2024/12/new-year-s-eve-celebrations-in-tamaki-makaurau/

1st December - Fly back to Melbourne
www.airnz.co.nz still has flights around $498NZD

18/12/2024

🎄Panic to Perfect Gift in 3 Clicks - Let's Go! 🎁
Make it a Christmas to remember – book a family adventure in New Zealand and ring in the New Year with award-winning Kiwi tours!

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 For Families
Hobbiton & Waitomo Caves Tour (Auckland)
Step into the magical world of Middle-Earth and drift beneath a canopy of glowworms — a storybook adventure for kids (and kids at heart).

🧭 For the Adventurous Couple
Milford Sound Cruise & Picnic (Queenstown)
Sail beneath towering waterfalls and breathe in the quiet of the fjords — a romantic escape that feels like stepping into another world.

👵 For Parents or Grandparents
Mt Cook & Lake Tekapo Tour (Christchurch)
Give them time to reconnect — snowy peaks, serene lakes, and the peace of New Zealand’s most beautiful landscapes.

👫 For Your Best Friend
Franz Josef to Queenstown via Wanaka
Road trip vibes, glacier wonders, and that epic “we did this!” feeling they’ll never forget.

🌊 For the Sea-Loving Soul
Bay of Islands Small Group Tour (Auckland)
Crystal-clear waters, island-hopping cruises, and a chance to escape to paradise — because the best gifts are ones that bring joy and calm.

🎁 Give Experiences, Not Stuff. 🎁
Your last-minute gift could be the start of a lifetime of stories.

🎟️ Book now or ENTER TO WIN A FREE TOUR!
👉 Find the perfect tour: PlanGoNZ.com

⏰ Time’s ticking — make this Christmas unforgettable! 🎄

15/12/2024

🥞🌊 Punakaiki Pancake Rocks 🌊🥞
Flip the script on ordinary adventures and explore the legendary Pancake Rocks on New Zealand’s wild West Coast! These ancient limestone “pancakes” come with a side of epic blowholes spraying ocean mist 🌬️✨ and fascinating Māori legends of
"Te Ana o Matuku-takotako." 💫🇳🇿

🚗 Getting There is Half the Fun!
✈️ From Christchurch: Hop on the iconic TranzAlpine Train to Greymouth, then head north to Punakaiki—or break up the trip with a stay in Franz Josef!
🏔️ From Queenstown: Book the Franz Josef via Wānaka Small Group Tour, explore Franz Josef.
🚙 From Franz Josef: Rent a car or self-drive to Punakaiki—or let West Coast Transfers take the wheel!

🛏️ Stay & Play in Franz Josef

🌳 Families & Budget Travellers: The Franz Josef Top 10 Holiday Park is perfect for everyone!

💑 Couples: Romantic vibes await at the Scenic Hotel Franz Josef Glacier.

🐦 Must-Do Activities: Spot Kiwis at the Wildlife Centre, soar over glaciers on scenic flights, or trek the family-friendly Callery Gorge Walk.

🍴 Dinner Goals: Snake Bite Brewery and Blue Ice Restaurant serve up tasty delights!

✨ 🌟 Ready to stack up memories? Book your epic West Coast journey now at www.plangonz.com and make sure you enter to WIN a FREE Tour from our awesome friends 🗺️🌿

13/12/2024

🌍✨ Mirror Magic at Lake Matheson! ✨🌍

📍 Lake Matheson, New Zealand – Nestled near Fox Glacier on the stunning West Coast, this serene lake is renowned for its breathtaking reflections of Aoraki/Mount Cook and Mount Tasman. A dream spot for nature lovers and photographers alike! 📸🌄

📜 A bit of history: Carved by ancient glaciers around 14,000 years ago, Lake Matheson holds deep cultural importance for Ngāi Tahu, the local Māori iwi. 🌿✨

🥾 Explore the trail: The 4.3-km loop walk is a breeze for most visitors and takes roughly 1 hour and 12 minutes to complete. Wander through lush native bush, cross charming bridges, and discover unbeatable photo ops along the way. 👟🗺️

🥐☕ After your walk, indulge at the Lake Matheson Café, famous for its delightful coffee, scrumptious local dishes, and unforgettable views. 🍰☕

🚗 Getting there: Just a 6km drive (about 5 minutes) from Fox Glacier township to the car park. This easy route is perfect for a relaxing day out! 🌟

Tag your best reflection shots—we’d love to see them! 📷✨

WIN a FREE Tour - thanks to our friends Cheeky Kiwi Travel - make sure you have entered > www.plangonz.com

Join our Wander New Zealand Group! https://www.facebook.com/groups/wandernewzealand - VIP deals, more competitions, travelling guides, tips, itineraries and photo albums so you can easily connect with others, share your experiences and tips - our photo albums give you a glimpse of the awesome destinations waiting for you to explore!

🌊🏔️

03/12/2024

Grandma would always say, "It is the experiences and the time you spend with your kids that are remembered over toys they will play with and discard in 5 minutes." So true!

Our awesome friends are all about creating memorable experiences and have come to the party with a FREE Tour!

Have you wandered New Zealand and tried one of their epic tours?!

BE IN TO WIN A FREE TOUR > www.plangonz.com

Featuring;
THE WEST COAST
* Franz Josef to Queenstown via Wanaka Small Group Tour - One Way
* Queenstown to Franz Josef via Wānaka Small Group Tour - One Way
* Christchurch to Franz Josef Tour via Hokitika - One Way
* Christchurch to Franz Josef Tour via Hokitika with Train - One Way

CHRISTCHURCH
* Mt Cook to Christchurch via Lake Tekapo - One Way
* Mt Cook & Lake Tekapo from Christchurch - Small Group Tour
* Christchurch to Queenstown Via Mt Cook & Tekapo - One Way

FROM QUEENSTOWN
* Mt Cook & Lake Tekapo 2-Day Small Group Tour
* Milford Sound Cruise & Picnic Lunch - Small Group Tour
* Mt Cook from Queenstown - Small Group Tour
* Milford Sound Fly, Explore, Fly - Round Trip

FROM AUCKLAND
* Hobbiton & Waitomo Caves - Small Group Tour
* Hobbiton & Rotorua + Te Puia - Small Group Tour
* Rotorua Highlights + Wai-O-Tapu - Small Group Tour
* Bay of Islands - Small Group Tour & Cruise

30/11/2024

Let's welcome our new members:
Ali Imraz,
Peter Rigby,
Maria L. Rosales,
Я. С.,
Henni Habarek,
IanandShelley MacDougall,
Sarah Defaux

30/11/2024

🌟 VIP INVITE 🌟
We personally invite you to join our Wander New Zealand Group
where we can share insider tips, local secrets, and the best activities this incredible country has to offer along with monthly competitions and VIP deals from our amazing tourism community.

Join the journey. Share your stories. Explore New Zealand, one adventure at a time. 🚀!

https://www.facebook.com/groups/wandernewzealand

Make it a Christmas to remember – book a family adventure in New Zealand and ring in the New Year with award-winning Kiwi tours!
We are proudly bringing you a list of epic Cheeky Kiwi 'Must Do' Tours.

Go into the Draw to WIN a FREE tour!
Enter >> https://www.plangonewzealand.com/wander

23/11/2024

⛰️ Discover Yourself - Wander New Zealand! 🌊

From golden beaches to towering mountains, New Zealand is the perfect playground to reconnect with yourself and the world around you. ✨

🏖️ Lounge on the golden sands of Kaiteriteri or explore the magical Cathedral Cove.
🌋 Venture out to Ninety Mile Beach or Piha’s iconic black sands.
🏔️ Trek Fox Glacier or soak in the views from Mt Maunganui.

🌟 Your journey starts here—visit plangonz.com and plan your next epic New Zealand adventure today! 🌿✈️

https://www.plangonewzealand.com/

22/11/2024

🌟 Raglan Rock: Adventures You Can’t Miss! 🌟

Looking for epic thrills and unforgettable experiences? 🧗‍♂️✨ Raglan Rock offers glowworm canyoning, real rock climbing, and jaw-dropping adventures you won’t find anywhere else. Located in the rugged beauty of Raglan, it’s your ticket to adrenaline-pumping fun! Here’s what’s waiting for you:

🌌 Karioi Glowworm Canyoning
💧 Ages 8+ | ~5 Hours

Ready to dive into a canyoning adventure surrounded by the glow of native New Zealand glowworms? 🌟 Bundle up in thick wetsuits and jackets, and let the journey begin—rain or shine!

🏔️ Start at Mt Karioi: Your descent begins at the edge of this ancient volcanic wonder.
💦 Adrenaline Overload: Scramble, climb, and abseil through cascading waterfalls while immersed in crystal-clear water and stunning native bush.
🔦 Glowworm Magic: Witness an underground light show you’ll never forget!
Their qualified, friendly guides will ensure you stay safe, inspired, and full of energy - we couldn't wait to introduce you. Don’t just visit Raglan—experience it! 🚀

🪨 Real Rock Climbing Experience
💪 Ages 8+ | ~5 Hours

Channel your inner rock star and scale the ancient fossil limestone cliffs of Stone Valley! 🏞️

🌋 Scenic Vibes: Soak up epic views of Raglan’s countryside, boulder valleys, and the extinct volcanoes of Mt Pirongia and Mt Karioi.
🧗 Master the Basics: Learn top rope climbing, belaying, equipment selection, and rock identification from expert guides.

📸 Insta-Worthy Moments: Your guide will snap FREE shots of you conquering the cliffs—perfect for sharing your adventure!

📍 How to Get to Raglan Rock
Getting here is half the fun! Raglan is just a 2-hour drive from Auckland or 45 minutes from Hamilton. Once in town, we’ll take you on a scenic drive through Raglan’s charming streets to your adventure destination. 🚐

👉 Don’t miss out on Raglan Rock! Book your adventure now at plangonz.com and choose Raglan as your destination.

🌊🔥

20/11/2024

We are so excited to be collaborating with Hell's Gate to bring you these rejuvenating, sightseeing and cultural experiences. It is the perfect time to get out there and explore, learn more about our beautiful country and book a spa in advance to treat yourself for being awesome this year :)

Hell's Gate Geothermal Walk�
Take a guided or self-guided interactive tour of New Zealand’s most active geothermal reserve. See erupting waters, an active mud volcano, land coral and a hot waterfall. Experience getting your hands dirty, and try your hand at Māori carving. You’ll soon discover the legends and myths behind Hell’s Gate.

BOOK DIRECT
https://plangonewzealand.rezdy.com/596222/api-hell-s-gate-geothermal-walk

Hell's Gate Mud Bath & Spas�
A historic New Zealand experience. The healing properties of the geothermal mud and sulphur mineral water have been used by local Māori for over 800 years. Open and clean your skin by lathering it in our unique mud, before exfoliating and cleansing with a soak in the sulphur spa. Your body and soul will feel revitalised after this soothing experience.

BOOK DIRECT
https://plangonewzealand.rezdy.com/596220/api-hell-s-gate-mud-bath-spas

19/11/2024

🌟 Epic South Island Road Trip From Christchurch 🚗✨

Buckle up for the ultimate South Island loop! From Christchurch to Hanmer Springs, Nelson, Blenheim, and Kaikōura, this journey is packed with unforgettable adventures. 🏔️🌿

📍 Christchurch
Kick things off in the Garden City! 🌸 Explore Hagley Park, the Botanic Gardens, and the Riverside Market 🛍️. Don’t miss a ride on the historic tram or punting along the Avon River. 🚋
https://www.plangonewzealand.com/christchurch

📍 Hanmer Springs
Relaxation meets adventure here! Soak in the famous thermal pools ♨️, go jet boating 🚤, tackle mountain bike trails 🚴‍♂️, or unwind with a spa treatment.
https://www.plangonewzealand.com/hanmer-springs

📍 Nelson
Welcome to the sunshine capital! ☀️ Paddle through Abel Tasman National Park with a 3-day Freedom Kayak & Water Taxi 🚣‍♂️, skydive over both islands 🪂, explore the Suter Art Gallery 🎨, and enjoy laser tag or bumper boats with family.
https://www.plangonewzealand.com/nelson-abel-tasman

📍 Blenheim
Wine lovers, this is your haven! 🍷 Tour world-class vineyards and indulge in Marlborough’s famous sauvignon blanc. Explore Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre ✈️ and the Wither Hills for a scenic hike. 🌄
https://www.plangonewzealand.com/marlborough

📍 Kaikōura
Marine magic awaits! 🐋 Go whale watching or swim with dolphins 🐬, feast on fresh crayfish 🦞, and hike the Kaikōura Peninsula Walkway for stunning coastal views. 🌊
https://www.plangonewzealand.com/kaikōura

📍 Back to Christchurch
Finish your loop with one last café stop or souvenir hunt before heading home. 🛍️

🚗 The Highlights:
Kayaking, skydiving, canyoning, wine tasting, whale watching, and soaking in thermal pools. Each stop brings something new to discover! 🌟

Ready to hit the road? Tag your travel buddies and start planning this unforgettable journey!

🚙✨

14/11/2024

💙 This iconic spot on New Zealand’s South Island isn’t just breathtaking; it’s steeped in Māori legend, where it’s said the god Rakinui filled this lake with sacred waters, giving it that otherworldly blue. 🌊✨

Whether you’re looking for a peaceful escape or a thrill, Lake Tekapo has it all!

Start with a tour from Queenstown to Tekapo via Mt Cook, stay overnight, and savor a fine dining experience 🍷. Get your adrenaline pumping with skydiving ✈️ or a back-country 4WD adventure 🚙, or cast a line for some fishing 🎣.

Explore the Mt John Walkway for stunning views 🌄 or take a gentler stroll along the sculpture trail by the waterfront.

For the night owls, stargazing with the Dark Sky Project is unmissable 🌌, and you’ll find unique gifts and the best bookstore in town 📚. Finish your adventure with a soak in the Tekapo Hot Springs—relaxation at its finest! ♨️

🌿🚌 Make it a trip to remember!

https://www.plangonewzealand.com/mt-cook-tekapo

09/11/2024

🌌 Legends of Ice & Time ❄️
Nestled in New Zealand’s West Coast are the Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers, known to the Māori as Kā Roimata o Hine Hukatere – “The Tears of Hine Hukatere.” Legend tells of Hine Hukatere, a heartbroken woman whose tears flowed down the mountains, freezing to create these majestic glaciers. 💧❄️

These glaciers are rare in their warm rainforest setting, moving nearly 10 times faster than typical glaciers!

🌲🏔️ Take a heli-hike for a jaw-dropping view or a guided walk to hear the ancient tales and feel the power of nature underfoot.

🌄 Ready for an experience steeped in myth and wonder?
www.plangonz.com

07/11/2024

🌿 Experience the best of Fiordland’s day walks! 🌿
We are so excited to collaborate with Fiordland Outdoors!

They provide seamless access to the Milford and Kepler Tracks 🚶‍♂️🚶‍♀️, helping you explore more of Milford Sound and Te Anau 🏞️.

Whether you’re after a gentle stroll 🌼 or a challenging hike 🥾, their day walks offer stunning scenery 🌅 and unforgettable adventures 🌌.

Use the discount code PLAN10 on your next booking - thanks Fiordland Outdoors.

06/11/2024

🌿 Discover Ulva Island Bird Sanctuary: A Hidden Paradise on Stewart Island! 🐦🌱

Experience the wild beauty of Ulva Island, where native birds soar and nature’s song fills the air. Just a quick trip from Stewart Island, this predator-free haven lets you witness rare birds like the Stewart Island kiwi, yellow-eyed penguins, and playful kākā in their natural habitat. 🌳🐧

Explore lush forests, join a guided tour to uncover secrets of the island’s conservation, and immerse yourself in the harmony of bellbirds and tūī! 🎶 Ulva Island is a rare glimpse into New Zealand's pristine wilderness and a testament to dedicated conservation. 🌏✨

Read more on our blog along with amazing activities for your incredible trip to this fantastic island!
https://www.plangonewzealand.com/post/ulva-island-bird-sanctuary-stewart-island

Ready to experience nature untouched? 💼👣 Plan your trip now—let the adventure begin!