'I went to New Zealand for two weeks. Here’s everything I wish I knew before I went.'

Thanks to our brand partner, 100% Pure New Zealand

For as long as I can remember, New Zealand had been my dream "someday" trip — the tiny towns, the fresh air and the kind of scenery that makes your phone camera weep.

So, when my best friend and I finally booked two weeks there, I wanted it to be more than just a holiday. I wanted the chance to disconnect, push myself and do the kind of trip that wasn't about lying by a pool, but about hiking, exploring and proving that changing the pace can actually lead to unexpected new friends — and still involve spontaneous fun. By the end of it, I felt 100 per cent fulfilled.

From the glaciers and alpine trails of Mount Cook National Park (Aoraki) to wandering glowworm caves in Waitomo, sweating our way up Roys Peak in Wānaka, sipping Pinot Noir in Central Otago — every day felt like a mix of "is this real life?" and "I never want to go home".

For every blister there was a laugh, for every brutal early start a sunrise that made us forget the pain and on the nights we stayed awake, a sky so full of stars that we felt like the main characters in our own movie.

We came back with aching legs, too many photos and a Notes app full of "next time" tips — so, you don't have to: here's everything I wish I'd known before I went.

1. The North Island and South Island both deserve your time.

You've probably heard people say the South Island is the "main event". I'm here to tell you — that's just not true. The North Island is absolutely packed with places that will blow your mind.

Rotorua's bubbling geothermal pools looked like something out of Stranger Things. The Waitomo Caves felt like stepping into a glowworm galaxy. And Auckland? A proper city — with food so good I'd honestly fly back tomorrow just for dinner.

Of course, the South Island has its own heavy hitters — Queenstown, Milford Sound (Piopiotahi), Mount Cook National Park (Aoraki) and Wānaka… the list goes on.

But together? The two islands tell a complete story. Do yourself a favour and see both — you won't regret it.

2. You don't have to have a car.

Everyone swore we'd need to drive to really see the country, but here's the truth: there's more than one way to do New Zealand. Don't get me wrong — cruising through Central Otago with vineyards and rolling hills on both sides is unforgettable.

Having done it both ways, I honestly enjoyed them equally. Driving means setting your own pace, but not having a car can be surprisingly convenient. No stressing about snow chains in winter, and joining tours or hopping on InterCity buses often led to unexpected little adventures.

We even managed to get from the South Island to the North Island without flying or driving.

Image: Supplied.

In Rotorua, local buses made it easy to get from the geothermal parks to the Whakarewarewa Forest (The Redwoods). And those long-haul buses? The views were so good I forgot to scroll TikTok for hours (a miracle in itself).

So no — you don't have to hire a car. With a bit of planning, you can absolutely see New Zealand without getting behind the wheel.

3. Take your time. Everywhere.

Wānaka was meant to be a one-night stop on our way from Queenstown. It simply wasn't enough. Hiking Roys Peak alone is a full-day activity — especially in winter when conditions are tougher — not to mention the cute cafés and restaurants that we were only barely able to scratch the surface of what Wānaka has to offer.

And at Mount Cook (Aoraki)? We thought three nights would do it. Wrong again. Waking up to snow-capped peaks bathed in pink sunrise light made us wish we'd booked an entire week there just to sit by the windows and soak it all in.

So take it from us: New Zealand isn't a "tick-it-off" kind of country. It's a place that deserves to be savoured and admired from every possible angle.

Image: Supplied.

4. Ask the locals about everything and anything.

Some of our favourite finds didn't come from guidebooks — they came from random chats. That Central Otago Pinot Noir we're still dreaming about? The turmeric latte near Wānaka? Our bus driver insisted we try it, and he wasn't wrong.

By the end, we had a rule: before we'd book anywhere to eat or drink, we'd ask a local. And without fail, it was worth it.

People in New Zealand aren't just friendly — they're caring. They want you to see their home through their eyes, and it makes every recommendation feel like a little secret you've been let in on.

5. Stock up on snacks just in case.

Mount Cook Village is possibly one of my favourite spots in New Zealand — and when I say it's a tiny town, I mean blink-and-you'll-miss-it tiny. That's part of the magic: no big supermarkets, no fast-food chains, just a peaceful little pocket that feels completely untouched. But here's the catch — don't roll in assuming you can stock up when you arrive.

We learned this the hard way. On the InterCity bus from Wānaka, our driver casually asked if we'd grabbed supplies. When we said no, we'd just pick something up in Mount Cook, he looked at us like we'd completely misread the assignment. Then, in true Kiwi fashion, he made a little detour so we could grab a few snacks on the way.

So yes, buy the snacks. Buy more than you think. No one has ever regretted an emergency stash of Sour Patch Kids or oat bars… especially when the alternative is hiking hangry.

6. Good gear and layers are essential. Trust me.

Wherever you're hiking — summer or winter — proper gear is worth the investment.

Take the Hooker Valley Track in Mount Cook National Park. On paper, it's a self-guided day hike with swing bridges, blue lakes and a glacier glistening in the distance. The weather can change quickly, so layering is key, a spare pair of socks comes in handy and sturdy boots will keep every step comfortable. With the right prep, it's an unforgettable day in some of New Zealand's most stunning scenery.

Image: Supplied.

7. New Zealand is for the girls.

New Zealand? Absolutely for the girls.

As two women travelling together, we felt safe the whole way through. Hikers stopped to check in, café staff treated us like regulars and bus drivers made sure we didn't miss our stops.

It honestly felt like we had guardian angels looking out for us — which is exactly the vibe you want on a girls' trip. Safe, supportive, without foregoing adventure.

So if you've been waiting for a sign to book your trip? This is it.

Find your 100% Pure New Zealand and start planning your next holiday.

Feature Image: Supplied.

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However you spend your time in Aotearoa New Zealand, you'll leave 100% fulfilled.