We might only be a few weeks back into the working year, but the daydreaming about our next holiday has already begun. Leave calendars are being checked, grandparents and pet sitters are on standby and the group chat is firmly in holiday-planning mode.
According to Pinterest’s predictions, 2026 is all about ‘mystical outland’ destinations, and adrenaline-fuelled ‘darecations’, with a side of food and wine-centric travel. And when you combine otherworldly landscapes with heart-pumping adrenaline and top-notch wineries, one destination stands out: New Zealand.
Why travel to New Zealand in 2026?
New Zealand is the 2026 travel destination, with everything you could possibly want in one place. From beaches to hikes, adrenaline to nature and of course, a bustling food and wine scene.
Being home to some of the greatest wineries, New Zealand’s wine tourism category is booming. Driven by the demand for immersive experiences, New Zealand wineries are coming to the table, combining award-winning wines with local arts, culture and cuisine.
And the best way to see the incredible country is by driving. If organising a whole self-driven trip feels like a lot of planning, let Flight Centre take the stress out of it with a New Zealand tour. Where everything is pre-arranged, including your car.
Classic New Zealand Wine Trail
With the help of Flight Centre, you’ll be able to choose your own adventure. With four different and affordable wine-centric tours taking you across the regions of the Classic New Zealand Wine Trail. You’ll be able to experience New Zealand’s oldest wine region Hawke’s Bay and see the passion of small batch producers in Wairarapa. Wellington is where it all comes together, a place where art, cuisine, history and culture merge into one. While Marlborough sees rolling vineyards thriving as New Zealand’s largest growing region.
It’s through the Classic New Zealand Wine Trails that you’ll find yourself enjoying the journey just as much as the destinations.
Explore the North Island
New Zealand’s North Island rewards those who linger. With diverse varietals, ever-changing landscapes and rich Māori culture, there’s plenty to savour along this portion of the Classic New Zealand Wine Trail.
Flight Centre’s suggested 12-night itinerary lets you do it all at a relaxed pace. Take your time meandering up the trail from the vibrant capital city Wellington to Auckland, stopping of course to take in Martinborough’s renowned pinot noir. Along the way explore Hawke’s Bay’s art deco architecture and Rotorua’s geothermal activity.
The eight-day option is perfect if you’re short on time but still want to enjoy indulgent food and wines from some of the country’s oldest vineyards in Hawke’s Bay. Wine tours, decadent three course dinners and wild landscapes are guaranteed when you explore this trail.
See all of New Zealand
New Zealand’s two islands have distinct characteristics. The North Island is rich in Māori culture and lively urban centres, with warmer weather and geothermal activity. In contrast, the South Island is renowned for its adventure-based character and dramatic mountainous terrain. And while visiting just the North Island will give you a taste of the awe-inspiring landscapes, you can’t go past seeing both islands.
The iconic Interislander Ferry crosses Cook Strait, connecting you from the North to the South Island. From there, journey through the Marlborough region — world-famous for its zesty sauvignon blanc, fresh seafood and unforgettable coastlines — before continuing south to Kaikōura.
Enjoy a luxurious 12-day itinerary making your way north from Wellington before heading towards Christchurch, taking in magnificent views and cultural highlights along the way. Enjoying a Capital Bites food tour and a half day wine adventure with Marlborough Wine Tours. Or cover the country and head all the way from Auckland to Christchurch with a 14-day exploration of wine country which includes flavourful food stunning vistas, and stops including Rotorua’s Skyline Gondola and art deco-inspired gin and wine tastings.
A thriving global travel brand, Flight Centre is trusted by travellers every day to open up the world. From flights and stays to cruises, tours and everything in between, they create extraordinary travel experiences with deals for everyone.
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