Explore beyond the tourist trail
Discover New Zealand’s hidden corners, where few visitors venture and natural wonders feel truly untouched.
New Zealand rewards curious travellers. Beyond the well-known highlights lie remarkable places that remain largely undiscovered. Whether it’s diving among underwater caves, exploring little-visited landscapes, or spotting rare wildlife, there’s always something new to uncover. With quiet roads and a culture that embraces independent exploration, it’s a country made for straying from the well-trodden path.
Poor Knights Islands
Located off Northland’s Coast, the Poor Knights Islands are a marine reserve and one of the world’s top dive sites. The volcanic origins of the islands have created dramatic arches, tunnels, and caves, home to an incredible variety of marine life. Divers and snorkelers might see stingrays, moray eels, and colourful nudibranchs, while warmer currents occasionally bring tropical species rarely found elsewhere in New Zealand.
The Ōmarama Clay Cliffs
Set just outside the township of Ōmarama, in South Canterbury, the Ōmarama Clay Cliffs are towering pinnacles of siltstone and gravel that feel worlds away from the surrounding farmland. These striking formations are an excellent stop for those self-driving through the South Island. The short walk into the cliffs brings you right among their cathedral-like walls, making it a memorable detour on any road trip.
Stewart Island
South of the South Island lies Stewart Island, New Zealand's third island, and also a place that sees very few visitors but offers some of the most authentic wilderness in the country. Over 85% of the island is protected as Rakiura National Park, allowing endemic creatures to thrive and creating a great stop on a New Zealand wildlife holiday. The island is one of the best places to spot the rare and nocturnal brown kiwi in the wild, alongside native parrots like the kaka.
Self-drive trips to New Zealand
One of the joys of travelling in New Zealand is how easy it is to get off the beaten track, particularly on a self-driving holiday. The road network is straightforward, traffic is light, and some of the country’s most interesting discoveries are found by simply taking an unplanned detour.
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New Zealand Trip Inspiration
Our New Zealand specialist, Alistair, says:
"New Zealand makes it wonderfully easy to step away from the crowds. Beyond the well-known highlights, there’s so much waiting to be discovered if you know where to look — and that’s where our expertise comes in. With excellent roads and open landscapes, it’s perfectly suited to self-drive holidays. Often just a short diversion will lead you to hidden bays, quiet mountain valleys, or welcoming local towns that many visitors miss entirely."
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Alistair
New Zealand Expert
FAQs About Your Off The Beaten Track New Zealand Holiday
Planning a holiday to Off The Beaten Track New Zealand? Our experts share advice on everything from what to pack, when to go, to tips for families, covering the questions we get asked the most.
Is it worth going off the beaten track in New Zealand?
Absolutely. Some of New Zealand’s most rewarding experiences are found away from the busiest tourist spots. Remote coastlines, quiet alpine valleys, and hidden hot springs often feel like they’re yours alone, making them well worth the extra effort.
How easy is it to get off the beaten track in New Zealand?
Surprisingly easy. New Zealand is made for self-drives, and often just a short diversion from the main route takes you into quiet, untouched landscapes. You don’t need to travel far to feel completely off-grid.
Is it dangerous to go off the beaten track?
Not usually. Many of New Zealand’s lesser-known places are very safe, but weather conditions can change quickly, and roads may be unsealed. With a bit of planning and the right guidance, it’s perfectly manageable.
Can I explore off the beaten track with a rental car?
Yes. Most rental cars are fine on sealed and many gravel roads, though some remote tracks may need a 4WD. We’ll advise you on the best routes that match your plans.
Will I miss out on the main highlights if I go off the beaten track?
Not at all. You can combine iconic highlights like Milford Sound or Rotorua with lesser-known areas nearby. This way, you enjoy the best of both worlds.
Do I need a guide to go off the beaten track?
Not always. New Zealand is easy to explore independently, but having a local guide in certain areas can really deepen the experience. For example, Māori-led tours or guided hikes add incredible insight.
How long should I spend in New Zealand?
There is so much to see across both the North and South islands, that although you could cover some highlights in 10 days or so, we certainly recommend spending longer, if you have the time, to really see all that New Zealand has to offer.
Is New Zealand a good destination for a self-drive holiday?
Yes, New Zealand is one of the world’s best self-drive destinations. Roads are generally quiet, scenery changes dramatically over short distances, and there are countless places to stop along the way. Driving allows you to set your own pace, linger where you like, and reach more remote spots that tours often miss.
What are the best hiking regions in New Zealand?
Some of the top areas include Abel Tasman National Park, Queenstown, Westland National Park (for glacier hikes), and Waiheke Island.
Is it easy to drive in New Zealand?
Yes, New Zealand roads are generally quiet, well-signposted, and easy to navigate. Driving is on the left, and most routes between main destinations are straightforward.