From the riches of Europe to the remote island nations of Polynesia, the list aims to shift the world’s focus on North American cinema back to the many other equally rich, yet underappreciated film industries around the world. This world cinema list is a true and authentic celebration of foreign cinema. Sparkling with diversity, we offer you 102 of the best foreign films ever made, one film per country.
To write this article, we spent years watching and re-watching every film mentioned in this article; exceptions being those films considered “lost”. Still, our article features merely the top of the iceberg of all the foreign cinema output we watched to compose this list. To make sure each country on this list is represented by an authentic, locally produced film of the highest quality, we’ve watched over 3,000 non-U.S. films in the past two decades.
While in the past there have been some attempts to create lists with the best foreign films of all time, each one of those lists made our film scholar souls cringe. They either listed a film like Dracula (1992) as an entry for Romania or featured the Outback-drama A Town Like Alice (1956) as an Australian film, failing to recognize that these films were produced and directed by foreigners, starred foreigners, and said very little about the country they attempted to display. You’ll find no such entries on our list!
Travel the World Through Cinema
Over the course of this list, we will travel across the continents to explore the world’s splendorous cinematic landscape. We will highlight hidden gems produced within each geographical region, one film per country. From the famed film industries of France and Italy to the virtually non-existent industries of Myanmar and Saudi Arabia and the now-defunct countries of West-Germany and Yugoslavia; you’ll find them all in the list.
During our cinematic journey across the globe, we will offer you a historical outline of each country’s local film industry. Additionally, we reflect on the socio-political factors that shaped the countries’ cinematic landscape, which resulted in the production of the films we recommend.
The wildlife of Australia is what first drew me to the land Down Under. The country’s Outback offers so many backpacking adventures, I could return to it over and over again. Just me and my camel, tracking the Red Waste in search of excitement. In this blog, I’ll tell you about some of the “bite-sized” adventures I’ve had while traveling in Australia.
Victoria
Upon touchdown in Melbourne, I reunited with my Aussie travel mates Jamie and Jarrah! Australians are a strange type of humans: they have a tendency to end words with “ie” for no apparent reason. In the morning they eat “breakie”, they prepare food on the “barbie”, people who sailboats are “boaties”, the “postie” brings the mail and parents are “oldies”. And who hasn’t heard of the “selfie”?!
Going urban in downtown Melbourne!
Driving the Great Ocean Road along Australia’s south coast is one of the best things to do in Australia. Along the Great Ocean Road, you can find the Twelve Apostles. The Twelve Apostles are eight impressive rock formations rising up from the sea, indicating that once upon a time, there was land where there now is sea… And yes, I said “eight”. In 2005, a storm took down a 50 meter high “apostle”, leaving only eight out of the then nine pillars. As far as anyone knows, however, there have never been more than nine apostles. So either the humans who came up with the name couldn’t count, or they just wanted to sound fancy! Do you think “The Twelve Apostles” sounds better than “The Eight Apostles”?
Together with my friends Jamie and Jarrah, as well as my humans, I went on a “roadie” on the Great Ocean Road, visiting the Twelve Apostles. I met Jamie and Jarrah in Vietnam and it’s been great exploring both Hanoi as well as Southern Australia with them.
Time to get in touch with my inner wildcat! I was so excited when my humans told me we were going into the Outback! Not sure what’s that big pancake in the middle of the desert, but it makes for an interesting sight… Now, where are the zebras?!
OK, so apparently there are no zebras in Australia and the pancake thingy is named Uluru, a rock sacred to the Aboriginal, and one of Aussie’s most important symbols. Don’t expect a simple plushie backpacker to know everything! Thankfully, I ran into a giant bouncing mouse who could tell me all about this region.
From afar, Uluru looks flat and round, but when walking around its base you can see the rock is far from straight. Uluru’s spectacular caves, crevices and colors look remarkable today. The green vegetation, the red sand, the sharp blue sky… The Australian outback is truly beautiful!
Walking around Uluru, my whiskers started tingling. My journeys across the world – touching upon both modern and ancient cultures – sometimes remind me a bit of the Australian Aboriginal concept of “walkabout”. Walkabout is a rite of passage during which boys live in the wilderness for several months, to make the spiritual transition into manhood. I can think of no better place for such a ritual than the Australian Outback, which covers 75% of the continent.
Kata Tjuta, also known as “The Olgas”, lies a 45-minute ride away from the sacred Uluru. Geologically, Kata Tjuta was formed in much the same way as Uluru millions of years ago. Countless years of rain and wind have carved Kata Tjuta into its current shape: something which is most likely to happen to Uluru as well over the next million years. Not sure if I’ll be around by then, though… Both rocks own their reddish color to the oxidation of the iron-bearing minerals within the rock. I really love the color palette of the Outback!
New South Wales
The Australian Outback is such an immense contrast to the urban buzz of Sydney! Here, the ancient cultures and traditions of the continent have vanished and have been replaced by modern Aussie society. I was surprised by the look of Aussie’s famous Opera House: on film, the distinctive structure always looks as if it’s one big, white building. Up close, however, it looks much more like a honeycomb, made with glazed ceramic tiles – and you can see the complex is composed of several buildings!
Surf’s up at Bondi Beach! Bondi is one of Australia’s most famous surfing beaches. If you’re lucky, you can even spot a dolphin or two here. I’m thinking about taking surfing lessons!
800 kilometers straight into the Outback from Brisbane, you’ll find the quirky town of Lightning Ridge. Following the Green Door Route on our first evening in the desert, I visited the First Shaft Lookout, where I met Tinnie the Tinman. Tinnie protects the Shaft, which is said to be the site of the first opal mine in the region. The Australian Outback is rich with minerals, such as opal and gold.
At Lightning Ridge’s First Shaft Lookout, a tiny house was built out of tin cans and bottles. To celebrate my arrival in the Outback, I bought a bottle of wine to share with my humans and our sweet friend Kelly, who lives out here in the wilderness.
Deeper and deeper into the Red Waste we go! Another 80 kilometers deeper into the Outback, we hit Grawin, where Kelly introduced us to a handful of crazy humans, who go by even crazier nicknames. Today we visited the camp of “Roo Sue” and “Pohmmie John” in the Red Heart of Australia, where we met some of the kangaroos living in the bush. Whereas most farmers shoot the ‘roos who eat their crop, Roo Sue feeds them and welcomes them as her friends… It’s amazing being able to get so close to these sweet, wild creatures!
Exploring more of the Outback, my love for the “Red Waste” continues to grow! From Kelly’s camp in the remote village of Lightning Ridge, we moved to her camp in the even more remote Grawin. Currently, the camp consists of a trailer, a small water tower containing rainwater, and a Long Drop bush toilet. There’s no heating, no running water and no road to speak of! Yet there are kangaroos, wacky bush-burned neighbors and at night all the stars in the universe reveal itself…
In the Outback, everyone has a nickname. There’s Roo Sue, Pohmmie Jon, Kiwi Al, and our friend, Camel Kelly, who earned her nickname by traveling from Steep Point (the easternmost point of Australia) to Cape Byron (the westernmost point) by camel, over the course of 18 months. Over the years, many of Kelly’s friends gifted her little camels. I wonder what my Outback name would be!
Inspired by my friend Camel Kelly’s 18-month long camel trek from Steep Point to Cape Byron, I have decided to go on my own track across the Red Centre. Wish me safe travels!
Celebrating my many years functioning as a Discordian Pope – inaugurated by Michal and Pim in Bratislava, 2010 – I visited the camp of Shirley Pope in the heart of Australia on Parramatta Road – a dusty sand road filled with potholes, humorously named after Australia’s busiest road. I never knew the Pope had a camp in the Outback! Maybe she’ll forgive me for my sins of chasing after bouncing mice. Although, is that really a sin? It’s so much fun!
The opal miners’ town Lightning Ridge is full of humans who’s brains have been deep-fried by the sun. Underneath the town, a man named Ron Canlin is carving an extensive network of tunnels out of an old opal mine, nicknamed “The Chamber of the Black Hand”. While carving the tunnels, Canlin decorates the walls with artworks sculpted out of solid rock. I’m very honored that he included a sculpture of me!
Down the rabbit hole we go! Lightning Ridge is one of the most creative places I’ve been to in my life. The locals, who proclaim they all have “a few kangaroos loose in the top paddock”, erected a slur of creative artworks. This is one of my favorites: the Green Door Route! By following the Green Doors, you can find your way through the wilderness…
Queensland
Travelling is fantastic, but too much time on the open road has had a nasty side effect: my leopard spots have almost completely faded away! Sometimes, people call me a lion… others call me a bear… I’m going into crisis mode here! My humans tried to help me by putting me in a support group for emotionally disturbed animals. Am I truly a leopard? Or am I just a lion? Or am I a bouncy mouse? A koala, maybe..? Please, help..!
Cairns’ Esplanade runs along the shore of the Coral Sea and features a beach filled with pelicans. It looks like the perfect place for a swim, but somehow, nobody is in the water… The signs along the beach will tell you why, though: the shores of Cairns are haunted by monstrous saltwater crocodiles! So much for my beach day…
To accommodate the humans living in Cairns, as well as the travelers stopping by for a visit, a swimming pool was constructed on the elevated esplanade along the beach. Though it seemed odd and pointless at first to have a pool next to the beach, knowing the beach is crocodile territory the pool suddenly sounds incredibly attractive!
The sunny shores of Cairns lead straight into the world’s most diverse coral reef: the Great Barrier Reef! The Reef is the most complex natural systems on Earth. Today, I’m visiting Normanby Island, which is part of the uninhabited Frankland Islands. As soon as our little boat docked, I started foraging to secure our survival. Just look at this piece of fruit I found! I hope it’s edible!
Just across the water from Normanby lies High Island. If its shape seems somewhat familiar to you, then you might have grown up in the ’90s! High Island was the filming location for many of the scenes from the Aussie TV series Ocean Girl (1994-1997), which ran for four years and starred the lovely Marzena Godecki as Neri. In the series, the odd-yet-enchanting Neri lived as much on the island as in the water.
Meet my two favorite pets in the world: my humans, Pim and Beki! Humans are an odd, but wonderful species… and I’m glad I found a few of them to keep me company!
Sweet. Adventurous. Silly… Though my humans are a bit naughty sometimes, it has been very nice to have them accompany me on my many trips. Whether we travel for a few days or for months in a row, it’s nice to know you always have someone to count on to get you food, carry your bags, and take your pictures!
Dear humans, I have decided to stay on the Frankland Islands. The beach, the reef, the humpback whales… I’m in love! Please take your boat and leave the cookies behind. I’ll be alright. I’ve seen a lot of episodes of Survivor, and I’ve seen Finding Nemo (2003) adozen times, so don’t worry. I’ll be fine. G’day mates!
Explore the very best movies from Oceania and the Pacific, based on a selection of over 9,100 films.
Join us in shifting the world’s focus on American cinema back to the many other equally rich, yet underappreciated film industries around the world. In this article series, we highlight several hidden gems produced within a certain geographical region, one film per country, from the riches of Europe to the remote island nations of Polynesia.
As a bonus, we will make a donation to the welfare of wild cats, and the preservation of their habitats, for every film purchased through this site.
Over the course of the 19th century, the many islands in Oceania were under constant threats from British, Spanish, French, Dutch, German, and American ships. With most of Oceania being under colonial control to some extent in the early 20th century, cinema on the Pacific Islands, as well as in Australia and New Zealand, was heavily influenced by Europe. In spite of most nations being granted independence by the mid-20th century, many film productions taking place in Oceania were still produced by foreign industries.
Up until the 1950s, for example, many films shot in Australia were produced by either the United Kingdom or the United States, even when they were adaptations of Australian novels, set in the Australian Outback. Still, Australia was the only country in the region that managed to compete with the flood of imported films coming from Western Europe and North America and establish a film industry of its own.
(Credit: Mad Max, Australia)
The Lord of the Rings-films, released in the early 2000s, presented the lush and beautiful landscapes of New Zealand to the world in a way no-one had ever done before. The films sparked interest in the country as a location for shooting films, and several New Zealand directors have gathered attention at the worldwide box office since.
While production still remained virtually non-existent in the Pacific’s many island nations, recent local incentives have stimulated the interest of locals in film. Samoa and the Cook Islands now boast a handful of aspiring filmmakers, who aim to share the traditions and cultures of their people through short films…
The Best Films from Oceania and the Pacific
Get lost in the vast Outback of Australia, and scale the snow-capped mountains of NewZealand, before sailing a mōkihi to the remote island nations of Samoa and the Cook Islands.
Australia: The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert
Directed by: Stephan Elliott, 1994.
(Credit: The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert)
The production of The Story of the Kelly Gang (1906) marked the beginnings of the Australian film industry. Throughout the history of Australian cinema, the story of Ned Kelly has been a popular subject of film: there are over 10 films based on the life of the infamous bushranger and outlaw. Australia soon became one of the most prolific film-producing countries in the world.
During and after World War II, Australia produced several successful historical war dramas, such as 40,000 Horsemen (1940) and The Overlanders (1946). In the decade that followed, many popular Australian books and plays were adapted to film through co-productions with the United Kingdom and the United States, such as A Town Like Alice (1956) and Robbery Under Arms (1957). Producing films for the English-language market, Australia had a relatively secure market to operate in.
Over the years, many Australian actors were welcomed to Hollywood: George Lazenby replaced Sean Connery to play James Bond in On Her Majesty’s Secret Service (1969), Nicole Kidman made her Hollywood debut with Days of Thunder (1990), and when Mad Max (1979) became an international hit, it turned Irish-Australian actor Mel Gibson into an international star. Additionally, British actor Hugo Weaving who resided in Australia hit all the right spots as drag-queen ‘Tick’ in The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert (1994). The film mixed the cinematographic landscape of the Outback with contemporary urban sub-culture and set Weaving on his path to star in The Matrix (1999), The Lord of the Rings (2001), and V for Vendetta (2005).
Nowadays, the 1970s and ‘80s are regarded as the “Golden Age of Australian cinema”. This period saw the release of the Outback dramas Walkabout (1971), Picnic at Hanging Rock (1975) and A Cry in the Dark (1988), as well as the dark science fiction film Mad Max and the more light-hearted Babe (1995), war epics ‘Breaker’ Morant (1980) and Gallipoli (1981), and the popular romantic comedies Crocodile Dundee (1986) and Muriel’s Wedding (1994).
Though the 2000s were less successful for Australia, films such as Moulin Rouge! (2001) and Happy Feet (2006) still proved to be international hits. Another notable example of Australian cinema was Daniel Nettheim’s eco-thriller The Hunter (2011), set on the remote island of Tasmania. The Hunter combines its unique, atmospheric setting, with a terrific layered performance by Willem Dafoe as the titular hunter.
Riding Priscilla, a lavender-colored bus, two drag-queen performers, and a transgender woman travel across the Australian desert to perform their show at a resort in Alice Springs.
Find The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert on Amazon.com.
After debuting its first feature film in 1914 following a period of exploration with film as a medium for documentary, a small-scale film industry developed in New Zealand. Unlike in its neighboring country, Australia, very few films were produced. It wasn’t until the establishment of the New Zealand Film Commission in 1978 that local cinema really found its footing in New Zealand. The island nation became an international player with the musical drama The Piano (1993) and the biographical film Heavenly Creatures (1994).
Though local Kiwi directors Peter Jackson and Taika Waititi undoubtedly put New Zealand on the map as a country of splendor with modern blockbuster films such as The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring (2001) and indie gems like Boy (2010) and What We Do in the Shadows (2014), the country also has a rich history of art films. Though American and British movies often take preference at award ceremonies based on English-language films, it would be a shame to overlook the gems sprung from New Zealand’s artistic wells.
Over the past few decades, the New Zealand government has taken a stand for the country’s Māori minorities, by allowing tribes to claim compensation for the historic injustices done to them and by supporting the preservation of their cultural heritage. Though laudable, these offers are a far stretch from improving the individual lives of those still living in poverty. In 1994, director Lee Tamahori kick-started his career with Once Were Warriors (1994), a film assessing the struggles of a lower class Māori family.
Though, sadly, the director’s career plunged downhill at a disturbing pace with lackluster commercial projects such as Next (2007) and franchise-killers Die Another Day (2002) and XXX: State of the Union (2005), his Māori drama still stands tall. The layered drama manages to display the reality of alcohol abuse and domestic violence in a brutally honest way and is superbly acted out by Māori actors Rena Owen and Temuera Morrison.
Based on author Alan Duff’s bestselling 1990 novel of the same name, Once Were Warriors tells the story of an urban Māori family struggling with poverty, alcoholism and domestic violence.
Around 3,500 years ago, the Samoan Islands were first settled during the Austronesian expansion. Contact with Europeans was established in the 18th century when Dutch, English, and American ships began to arrive. Serving as a colony of Germany, and later New Zealand, Western Samoa was separated from the United States’ territory of American Samoa. Still, relations between the islands were good, and American director Robert J. Flaherty filmed the anthropology documentary Moana (1926) on Samoa, as a spiritual follow-up to his earlier film, Nanook of the North (1922).
Though the United States used American Samoa as a filming location for Return to Paradise (1953) and Pacific Destiny (1956), film production on Samoa remained virtually non-existent. Samoa gained its independence in 1962, and it would take several decades more before the country started to produce its own films. Foreign influences remained small, as the screening of films in Samoa’s only cinema was strictly censored, and many foreign films were banned.
In the early 2010s, the short films Sacred Spaces (2010) by Tusi Tamasese, and Malaga (2010) by Daniel Poleki and Robert Poleki made a splash at international short film festivals in New Zealand, Canada, and Hawaii. A year later, Tamasese directed the island nation’s first-ever feature film, The Orator (original title: O Le Tulafale, 2011). The film was shot entirely in Samoa and features a Samoan cast. Samoan chief Manu Asafo served as Tamases’s cultural advisor. The chief described the film as an attempt “to portray Samoan culture”, displaying the life and traditions of the people of Samoa.
Small in stature, the humble taro farmer Saili is forced to defend his land and family, following the ancient customs and traditions of his village to do so.
Throughout over 100 years of cinema, only two notable films were (partly) shot on the Cook Islands: Merry Christmas, Mr. Lawrence (1983), and The Other Side of Heaven (2001). Like Samoa, the Cook Islands were colonized in the late 19th century and later became a dependent territory of New Zealand. Though the island nation is still part of the Realm of New Zealand, the islands gained independence in 1965.
Even though there are two cinemas in Rarotonga, it took a long time before a local film was ever shown there. In the early 2010s, Stan Wolfgramm, one of the founders of the cultural Te Ara Museum on Rarotonga, sparked the first developments in the local film industry with the launch of the project Film Raro. The project was meant to put the Cook Islands on the map as a mecca for tropical island filming, and filmmakers from all over the world were invited to hand in scripts for potential short films.
Receiving just under 2,000 scripts, Wolfgramm selected six teams of enthusiastic film-makers, who were then flown to Rarotonga. The film crews turned the island into a film studio for two weeks, mentoring locals in the art of cinema, and shooting their films. In spite of the tropical torrential rain plaguing the island on the day of the premier, close to five thousand Cook Islanders attended the event – almost 50% of the island nation’s population. Film Raro was a great success, and in the years that followed several other Samoan shorts were produced.
The six short films shown at the 2013 festival were The Seed,Dog Save the Queen, Mou Piri, Little Girl WarCry, Islands, and The Offshore Pirate (all: 2013). For our list, we’ve picked Australian director Marcus Hamill’s Dog Save the Queen. With a cast that had never been in front of a camera before, a 10-year-old Samoan boy as the main star, and an untrained island dog as his companion, the film was a wild and wonderful experiment. In the film, a young boy’s world is upside down when the British Queen traces the Royal Corgi bloodline back to his dog Cyclone, who was the product of an encounter with one of the Queen’s corgis during her visit to the Cook Islands in 1972.
Life is about to change for islander Nuka and his loyal dog: with the Royal Corgi bloodline facing extinction, the British Queen’s search for a descendant of her dogs leads her to the island of Samoa, which she once visited with her corgis in 1972.
New Zealand is one of my favorite countries in the world! The splendor of the country’s national parks is astonishing, and the New Zealand wildlife is absolutely amazing! In this blog, I’ll tell you about some of the “bite-sized” adventures I’ve had on both North Island and South Island.
South Island
From the cold of the Netherlands into breezy New Zealand! Snow-capped mountains, autumn leaves… Queenstown is a sight to behold! It’s also a great location for winter sports!
From Queenstown onwards, I hitchhiked both South Island and North Island until I reached Auckland! Today I hitched a ride with Brit Paul and his local steel engineering colleague, Dan, to the stunning region of Milford Sound in the Fiordland National Park.
In Te Anau, I fell in love with a native Kiwi bird! Unfortunately, kiwi birds are vulnerable to non-native predators like weasels, ferrets, rats, cats and dogs; animals that came ashore in New Zealand with human immigrants. New Zealand used to be a safe haven for flightless birds, but this is no longer true. Still, the government aims to capture all predators, sending out “trappers” to catch them all! In the mountains of Te Anau, I hitched a ride with two rugged gentlemen who had just spent six months camping in the wilderness to catch non-native predators! I hope their work will continue to be successful, otherwise, my new friend might end up as a weasel’s dinner…
At the Te Anau Bird Sanctuary I met another native New Zealand flightless bird: the takah? bird! Much like the kiwi, the takah? often becomes the victim of non-native predators. Only 300 are left, most of them living on offshore islands and in Takah? Valley. The Takah? Recovery Programme tries to maintain the species… and this cute plushie will make sure the world knows!
From Queenstown, I hitchhiked along the South Island West Coast’s Haast Highway with wine farmer Lukas from Germany. On the way to the Franz Josef glacier, we pulled over to take in the views at Knight’s Point.
At the gorgeous Franz Josef Glacier , there’s always the chance of an avalanche! Can you believe that while I was being crushed by icy rocks at the glacier, my humans were taking pictures?!
In Christchurch I caught up with avid traveler Jochem, one of my human’s high school mates, who’s been living and working in New Zealand for quite some time after his travels through Southeast Asia.
Reading Tame Smilere’s The Whale Rider (1987) with my new best friend in the quiet and peaceful city of Christchurch.
Kaikōura is by far one of the most beautiful places to visit in New Zealand! In Kaikōura, I spent the day babysitting the Ohau Stream seal pups. At the Ohau Stream, seal parents leave their children in a safe environment while they go out to catch fish. The kids stay behind and play tirelessly in Ohau’s natural nursery! It was easy to fall in love with these pups… but I can’t recommend visiting them. The Ohau Stream has become too popular with backpackers for the seals to feel comfortable, so it is now recommended to just enjoy the thousands of other seals living along Kaikōura’s shoreline.
Yay! I managed to hitchhike all the way up to Picton to catch the Bluebridge ferry to Wellington on North Island!
North Island
Welcome to the North Island! Though there are fewer animals and national parks than on South Island, the north has a big plus in regards to cultural travel: meet Pouwhenua, the Māori land post situated on top of Mount Victoria, overlooking the city!
In Wellington, I visited Weta Digital, the creators of “The Lord of the Rings”, “The Hobbit”, “Tin Tin”, “District 9”, “Ghost in the Shell” and more! Doesn’t this guy look like fun? Mr. Bilbo Baggins told me Stone Trolls are not very playful, but I don’t mind a bit of chasing around! Check out our entry for New Zealand in our guide for the world’s best movies!
Here in Taupo, with Lake Taupo and Mount Ngauruhoe on the horizon, I played a game of high stakes golf with my human at Taupo’s “Hole in One challenge”. The goal: hit the ball into the hole on the floating platform!
Hopping the geothermal mud pools of the Rotorua (a.k.a. the “Sulphur City”) at the boiling Sulphur Flats. The Sulphur Flats is a zone of thermal activity where you can see the ground boil underneath your feet, as steam rises from the ground!
The green grass, the blue sky, the red roof, the palm trees… The Rotorua Museum Te Whare Taonga o Te Arawa – excuse my Māori – looks absolutely gorgeous! I could spend as much time looking at this museum as I could walking around in it!
Visiting the neighbors of Bag End, the former home of Bilbo Baggins and now the residence of Frodo Baggins. This little smial (also known as a “Hobbit-hole”) is situated at the end of Bagshot Row in Hobbiton. It’s so cool to be able to visit this little village!
“In a hole in the ground there lived a plushie. Frodo frowned upon the arrival of his new neighbor.” It was awesome to visit the Hobbiton Movieset. Peter Jackson and his crew did a fantastic job recreating the small village from J.R.R. Tolkien’s fantastic books on the Alexander farm in Matamata.
Inspecting Samwise Gamgee’s plum trees! Do you like plums as much as Hobbits do, or do you prefer a different type of fruit?
Meet Tiki, the first man who created in Māori mythology. His totem protects the geothermal M?ori village Te Whakarewarewatanga O Te Ope Taua A Wahiao – ‘Wakarewarewa’ for short. Translated to English, the village is named “The gathering place for the war parties of Wahiao”. That’s an impressively long name for a village!
This was so nice! In the geothermal Māori village Whakarewarewa, I was greeted in traditional Māori-style! The “hongi”-greeting is performed by two people pressing their noses together.
In Auckland, I was reunited with Thai student Mai and his new colleague Fay. I met Mai in Thailand, when my humans were teaching him English during our stay in the Land of Smiles. Mai is such a funny guy! Like many other international students, he’ll be studying in New Zealand for the next few months. We explored Auckland together, including its beautiful harbor. I hope we get to meet again soon!
During my stay in Auckland, I was CouchSurfing with Jon, a Kiwi CouchSurfer whose life was about to change: Jon decided to quit his job, cancel his apartment, and hit the open road! I know exactly how that feels… Would you dare to leave everything behind?
When thinking of Australia, kangaroos and koalas instantly come to mind. Many backpackers visit the continent to spot some of the country’s unique wildlife.
Australia is home to many amazing creatures, ranging from cuddly marsupials to deadly reptiles. Still, you can stay in Australia for weeks without seeing a single kangaroo. If your backpacking route mostly consists of traveling from city to city, you’re very likely to miss out on spotting the nation’s most famous animals. Though you’ll find many types of exotic birds perched in the city parks of urban Australia, most of the country’s true animal celebrities can only be spotted outside of the major hubs.
In this Australia Wildlife Spotters Guide, we’ll tell you about Australia’s cuddly and creepy critters, and where to spot them.
A joey hitches a ride in his mother’s pouch (Credit: The Bite-Sized Backpacker)
Kangaroos
Leaving Australia without encountering one of the country’s hopping national icons would be a terrible shame. Though you won’t find many of them in the cities, there are plenty of them to be found elsewhere: after all, there are two kangaroos for every person in Australia!
Spread across the country, there are four species of kangaroos: the red kangaroo, the eastern grey kangaroo, the western grey kangaroo, and the antilopine kangaroo. The large red kangaroos can be found throughout the Outback. Western grey kangaroos mostly live in south-west Western Australia, while eastern grey kangaroos live only in east Australia, with large colonies inhabiting the coast near Emerald Beach. Finally, the antilopine kangaroos can be found in the monsoonal tropical woodlands of northern Australia.
Wild kangaroos in Grawin, deep in the Australian Outback (Credit: The Bite-Sized Backpacker)
Kookaburras
Kookaburras are known for their loud distinctive call, which sounds as if the bird is laughing. The birds can mostly be found in eastern Australia, but are also spotted in Southwest Australia. Along with the kangaroo and the koala, the kookaburra is one of the nation’s most famous animal icons. Since the call of the kookaburra is often associated with the Australian bush or a tropical jungle, it has been used as a stock sound effect in many films, including Raiders of the Lost Ark (1981) and The Lost World: Jurassic Park (1997).
Koalas
Koalas live on a strict diet of eucalyptus tree leaves. The leaves are low in nutritive value, high in dietary fiber, and of high toxicity, which makes them a bit of a peculiar culinary choice. To get the most out of the leaves, koalas have a very slow metabolic rate. This makes them slow and requires them to sleep up to 18 hours a day. Koalas only live in the east and southeast of Australia and are relatively easy to spot if you know where to find them. There are several eucalyptus forests on the Great Ocean Road where you’ll find these little furry creatures sleeping in the trees, comfortably curled up into balls.
Koalas enjoying an eucalyptus tree dinner (Credit: The Bite-Sized Backpacker)
Platypuses
Meet Australia’s strangest animal: the platypus! Platypuses are small duck-billed mammals resembling an otter or beaver. As these odd creatures mostly live in or underwater, they can be hard to spot. In the past platypuses were frequently sighted in east Australia, but nowadays your best bet for taking a closer look at one will be at one of Australia’s wildlife sanctuaries, such as the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary in Brisbane.
Humpback Whales
Each year between April and November, humpback whales swim up from the rich waters of Antarctica, passing Australia’s eastern coastline. Up north, they’ll seek the comfort of sub-tropical waters to mate and give birth. Between September and November, they return. Humpback whales are known to majestically breach the surface when coming up for air. They are Australia’s most iconic whales, and one of them even played a major role in the 1990’s TV series OCEAN GIRL (1994-1997), which featured an unusual girl named Neri and her friend Charlie, a humpback whale with whom she could communicate.
Humpback whales swimming past the coast near Sydney (Credit: The Bite-Sized Backpacker)
Saltwater Crocodiles
Saltwater crocodiles can be found on Australia’s north and northeast coast. Visit Cairns, and you’ll find out just how dangerous this creature is. The Cairns Esplanade is elevated a couple of feet above the city’s ocean beach, as the beach is regarded as croc territory. The so-called “salties” make it impossible to enjoy the sand in Australia’s most popular diving destination, and as a solution, the Cairns Esplanade Lagoon was created: a large swimming pool on the edge of the beach.
Coral Reefs
One of Australia’s most popular tourist attractions is its extensive coral reef. The Great Barrier Reef stretches out over 2,300 kilometers along Australia’s northeastern shoreline, and can even be seen from outer space. The reef is the world’s biggest structure made by living organisms. The tiny organisms that inhabit the reef grand this enormous marine habitat reef its shape and color. Tours taking you to the Great Barrier Reef for snorkeling and diving are concentrated around Cairns.
Box Jellyfish
During the warm months, usually from October to April, the box jellyfish pays a visit to northern Australia. The box jellyfish is by far the deadliest creature in the country. A single brush from the jellyfish’s tentacles can induce cardiac arrest: it can kill a human within a few minutes. The jellyfish‘s sting is incredibly painful, and can instantly immobilize you. It’s safe to say this is one of Australia’s critters you do not want to encounter during your stay in the land Down Under!
Emus
Though related to the ostrich, the emu is endemic to Australia. Emus enjoy living on the coast, but many of them now live in the Outback. Farming activities have improved living conditions for them in the Red Centre, and emus can be seen trekking the desert year-round. The emu is the subject of many of ‘outback artist’ John Murray’s works. Like others living in the Outback, Murray knows just how ‘deeply stupid’ emus can be sometimes, and his works don’t shy on displaying them at their worst moments. Murray’s paintings can be found at the John Murray Art Gallery in Lightning Ridge, one of the best places to visit in Australia.
Emus inspired some of John Murray’s greatest works (Credit: The Bite-Sized Backpacker)
Echidnas
The echidnas is another one of Australia’s many odd creatures: this egg-laying mammal resembles both a platypus and a porcupine, yet follows the diet of an anteater. Unlike the endemic species of Australia, the echidna also made its way to New Guinea. The distribution of the echidna is similar to that of the kookaburra: they can mostly be found in eastern Australia, but can also be spotted in Southwest Australia.
Wombats
Wombats are fluffy, round animals, closely related to koalas. Their short legs and stubby tails give them a particularly cuddly look. Like koalas, they have an extraordinarily slow metabolism and move very slowly. Wombats live in the southeast of Australia, and can also be found in Tasmania. In Aboriginal Dreamtime stories, the wombat is depicted as an animal of little importance. Additionally, the species was classified as a vermin in the early 20th century, which led to the destruction of their habitat and greatly reduced their numbers. Luckily, wombats have since become a protected species.
Wallabies
It’s easy to mistake a wallaby for a kangaroo. Still, they are classified as a different species. Wallabies are much smaller than kangaroos. Rather than living in vast, open areas like their larger siblings, wallabies live in forested areas. Another dissimilarity is the color of their fur. The wallabies’ coat has a more distinct color, compared to the muted reds and greys of kangaroos. The little animals can be found across Australia in many of the remote, heavily timbered areas of the country.
Two wallabies hanging out with kangaroos (Credit: The Bite-Sized Backpacker)
Thorny Devils
The thorny devil is one of Australia’s most famous desert creatures. Thorny devils are lizards that grow up to 21 cm in total length and are covered entirely in conical spines. Despite the thorny devil’s monstrous appearance, it’s not a venomous animal and encountering it in the Outback will not be a cause for alarm.
Snakes
Australia hosts approximately 170 snake species. About 100 of those species are venomous, and these include almost all of the top 25 most venomous snakes in the world. Due to their distribution in the enormous Outback, fatalities are luckily rare. Still, you’d want to avoid encounters with slithering deadly creatures such as the Eastern Brown Snake, the Western Brown Snake, the Tiger Snake, the Coastal Taipan, or the Inland Taipan. The Inland Taipan’s poison is so venomous, its bite contains enough venom to kill more than 100 men. The Inland Taipan lives in Queensland and South Australia, but is quite reclusive and unlikely to attack.
Dingoes
Dingoes are wild Australian dogs, mostly found in the desert. While male dingoes are often solitary and nomadic in nature, the animals usually form a settled pack when mating. On the night of 17 August 1980, a dingo dragged Azaria Chamberlain, a two-month-old baby, from a tent at a campsite near Uluru. The event led to one of the most publicized murder trials, as the child’s mother was wrongfully convicted of murder after investigators refused to believe a dingo would attack a human. The story is shown in the film EVIL ANGELS (1988), which is headlined by Meryl Streep and Sam Neill as the parents of Azaria Chamberlain.
Tasmanian Devils
Popularized immensely by the Looney Tunes-character of the same name, the Tasmanian devil is an iconic symbol of Tasmania. Tasmanian devils are the size of small dogs, but can be quite muscular. With their loud screech and their ferocious eating habits, it’s easy to see how they served as the inspiration for the animated Tasmanian Devil. Tasmanian devils can be found almost everywhere in Tasmania, but recent outbreaks of devil facial tumor disease has decreased the population.
The Tasmanian devil, the iconic symbol of Tasmania (Credit: The Bite-Sized Backpacker)
Goannas
The goanna is an Australian desert native. It is the second-largest living lizard, second only to the komodo dragon. The perentie goanna – one of 25 goanna species in Australia – can grow over 2,5 meters in length. With exception of the several shoreline regions, goannas can be found everywhere is Australia. The lizards aren’t dangerous and are unlikely to attack humans: they mostly feed on insects, smaller lizards and mammals, birds, and eggs.
New Zealand is a true paradise for those travelers hoping to spot some unique forms of wildlife. From the flightless kiwis to the New Zealand fur seal, the country hosts a suburb selection of native species.
Before colonization, New Zealand was home to a large host of flightless birds who lived a relatively safe and peaceful existence. When humans brought in rats, possums, and other invasive predators, things changed: the flightless birds formed an easy prey, and many of them were eaten. Up until today, the Kiwi government still tries to prevent these foreign pests from threatening their native species. At a very young age, children are taught possums ‘don’t belong’ by funny children’s books such as Donna Blaber’s Bruce Goes Home, in which a homesick Australian possum is happy to be catapulted back to Aussie by his bird friends.
In this New Zealand Wildlife Spotters Guide, we’ll tell you about New Zealand’s fabulous animals, and where to spot them.
New Zealand fur seals resting on a rock (Credit: The Bite-Sized Backpacker)
Kiwis
The kiwi is by far New Zealand’s most famous flightless bird. Kiwis are endemic to New Zealand, and they are recognized as a symbol of the country. The term ‘Kiwi’ is even used as the colloquial demonym for New Zealanders. The kiwi is a descendant of the large, flightless birds that lived in the past. Nowadays it is the smallest living ratite, looking up at its distant family members the ostriches, emus, and cassowaries.
Spotting a kiwi in the wild can be difficult, as the little bird only comes out at night. Still, when following the advice of the locals, and with a bit of luck, you might just spot one visiting the forested areas in the North Island, such as Fiordland and Stewart Island. If every attempt to spot a wild kiwi fails, you can always see them in Rainbow Springs, the wildlife park in Rotorua.
There’s definitely no shortage of kiwi plushies in New Zealand (Credit: The Bite-Sized Backpacker)
Kea
The New Zealand kea is the world’s only alpine parrot. The parrots are used to living in a harsh mountain environment, and can easily be spotted on your way to and inside the Fiordland National Park. Kea’s are intelligent and curious, but can also be aggressive. Be careful with carrying eatables when you are around them, as the birds might attack you in order to get to the food.
Takahē
The South Island takahē is another one of New Zealand’s endemic flightless birds. Its round body, blue feathers, and short beak make it instantly recognizable, though seeing one in the wild is rare. The New Zealand Department of Conservation set up programs to maintain the species in several locations on the South Island. The Murchison Mountains at Lake Te Anau serve as a sanctuary for the birds, and in the nearby Te Anau Bird Sanctuary you can still see a few birds as well. Takah? look similar to the equally blue pukeko’s, but are larger and more brightly colored.
Meet the flightless South Island takahē (Credit: The Bite-Sized Backpacker)
Tui
Moving away from the flightless birds, we get to the tui. The tui is also one of New Zealand’s endemic birds. Tui boast a complex variety of songs and calls. They are easily recognized by their song and can be found throughout New Zealand. Though tui looks black from a distance, they actually feature a multicolored iridescent sheen and have distinctive white throat tufts. In M?ori culture, the tui act as spiritual messengers to the gods.
Tomtits
This little bird is endemic to New Zealand and can be found on both North Island and South Island. There’s much to love about tomtits: with their large heads and small beaks they look irresistibly cute. The male tomtits on South Island boast a beautiful yellow chest. You’ll have a good chance of spotting one of these cuties while hiking the Routeburn Track in the Fiordland National Park.
A tomtit on Routeburn Track (Credit: The Bite-Sized Backpacker)
Sheep and Alpacas
Home to 3 million people and 60 million sheep, New Zealand features a large amount of livestock. Aside from sheep, alpacas have also made the island nation their home. The New Zealand climate is similar to that of the alpacas’ home in the Andes. Clothing, rugs and even alpaca plushies using authentic, soft alpaca wool can be found in every souvenir shop on South Island.
There are many livestock farms featuring sheep and alpacas in New Zealand, but you’ll find more sheep up in North Island, and more alpacas down south. This is because the popular Romney sheep are better suited for farming on the North Island, while the climate of South Island is more catered to the needs of alpacas.
Alpacas grazing in Queenstown (Credit: The Bite-Sized Backpacker)
Glow worms
For a starry night sky in the middle of the day, head for one of New Zealand’s stunning glow worm caves. The New Zealand glowworm is native to New Zealand and can be found on both North Island and South Island. Glow worms are insect larvae that glow through bioluminescence, lighting up the dark, water-filled caves they live in. Their light is meant to attract other insects, who get caught in the glowworms’ sticky web-like lines. To get to know these wonderful luminescent creatures, head to the Te Anau Glowworm Caves in South Island, or visit the caves around Lake McLaren or the Waitomo on North Island.
New Zealand fur seals
The most famous resident of the South Island coastal town Kaikōura is the New Zealand fur seal. Hiking the Kaikōura Peninsula Walkway will be the highlight of any trip to New Zealand. The walkway threads one of the most mesmerizing coastlines in the world. The peninsula’s shore itself is inhabited by thousands upon thousands of fur seals. It is a spectacle to observe how they interact, play in the water, and enjoy the comfort of their own private swimming pools that have formed on the shore’s rocks – water slides and rapids included!
A playful New Zealand fur seals hiding under a rock (Credit: The Bite-Sized Backpacker)
Dolphins
New Zealand counts several species of dolphins. Along the west coast of North Island, you can find Māui dolphins. Māuidolphins are quite rare and endemic to New Zealand. Unfortunately, the Māuidolphins are on the brink of extinction: there are less than seventy adults left in the island’s waters. Other dolphin species found around New Zealand are grey bottlenose dolphins, round-finned Hector’s Dolphins, and bluish-black-finned dusky dolphins.
Orcas
Orcas, also known as killer whales, are the largest members of the dolphin family. Their beautiful smooth black and white pattern makes them instantly recognizable. Orcas generally eat small fish, shrimp, and cuttlefish, but they also prey on larger species, such as seals and dolphins. Orcas can often be spotted along the Kaikōura coastline on South Island between November and March.
Sperm whales
The Kaikōura coastline is abundant with sea life. The South Island’s east coast is one of the few places in the world where sperm whales can be seen all year round. The whales gather near the Kaikōura Canyon, which runs up against the east coast and offers a rich food supply. Kaikōura only features male sperm whales, gathered in so-called ‘bachelor pods’. Female whales can only be found in warmer tropical waters.
Sperm whales surface approximately every 1-2 hours to fill their lungs with fresh air, and sometimes provide some spectacular breaches. If you are lucky you can spot them from the shore, but you can also get up close with these gentle giants through a whale watching tour.
A sperm whale diving near Kaikōura (Credit: The Bite-Sized Backpacker)
Humpback whales
The migrating humpback whales of Kaikōura are known to majestically breach the surface when coming up for air. They can dive for up to 30 minutes, but usually come up for air every 15 minutes or so. When they dive again, they show off their beautiful white tails. Humpback whales pass by the east coast during Kiwi winter, which is between June and August. The whales are often playful and each individual is easily recognized, as their dorsal fins are all similarly unique to the fingerprints on humans.
Penguins
Finally, New Zealand also has its own species of penguins: the little blue penguin and the yellow-eyed penguin. New Zealand’s penguins can be found all over the country, but on South Island, you’ll have the best chance to spot the little blue penguin. The little penguins live around the Otago Penisula and the Akaroa Peninsula. In the Catlins, a remote and untouched area near Invercargill, it is possible to spot the rare yellow-eyed penguin.
So, you’re thinking about traveling to Australia. Good on ya, mate! With its otherworldly landscapes, exotic wildlife, and bustling city hubs, there’s a lot to see and do in the land Down Under. Given the vastness of the country, you’ll have to make some choices. What would you like to see, do, and experience while visiting Australia? Is it your dream to stand face-to-face with a wild kangaroo, or do you prefer to experience Melbourne’s exquisite culinary life? And are you a surfer, or a hiker?
Based on how much time you have and what you’d like to see, you can establish the route that suits you best. Many of Australia’s highlights and touristic destinations are situated on the country’s east coast, between Melbourne and Cairns. Because of this, most travelers choose to either travel north to south or the other way around along the east coast. They hit the big cities, but also experience some of Australia’s natural wonders such as the Great Ocean Road, the Blue Mountains and the Great Barrier Reef.
Second-time visitors will often skip the east coast and travel directly into the Outback, or travel down the west coast from Broome to Perth, passing the beautiful Ningaloo Reef. In this blog, we’ve listed some of the best things to see and do in each of Australia’s largest states. This guide will lead from Melbourne to Cairns and Darwin, before taking you further inland towards the central states and Western Australia.
Hiking the Australian Outback near Kata Tjuṯa (Credit: The Bite-Sized Backpacker)
Victoria
Melbourne
Melbourne’s urban, artsy vibe draws in travelers from all over the world. While Sydney is Australia’s most busy port of call, Melbourne draws in most of the backpackers. The city has a lively bar culture with artsy café and coffee bars, plenty of live concerts, and a famous nightlife. It is the perfect place to meet up with both locals and fellow travelers. Melbourne is also famous for its street art. All across the city, you’ll find elaborate graffiti art, most famously concentrated in Hosier Lane in the downtown area.
If you’re not too keen on walking around all of Melbourne, the City Circle Tram will take you to the city’s most popular sightseeing attractions for free. In addition, the city’s harbor is the point of departure for people who want to visit the penguins on Phillip Island, or those who want to take the ferry to Tasmania.
The Great Ocean Road
The Great Ocean Road is a 243 kilometers long road along the south-eastern coast of Australia. Situated between the cities of Torquay (near Melbourne) and Allansford, the road is listed as a part of the Australian National Heritage. The road winds along the coast, moving past well-known landmarks such as the Twelve Apostles, a series of famous limestone stack formations. The Great Ocean also passes through a series of beautiful Karri forests, where the koalas live. Make a stop at the Kennet River Coastal Reserve or drive through the Karri forests towards the Cape Otway lighthouse to spot the wild koalas.
The Twelve Apostles on the Great Ocean Road (Credit: The Bite-Sized Backpacker)
New South Wales
Sydney
Sydney is known far and wide for its beautiful beaches and iconic architecture. The welcoming, open-minded nature of Sydney’s residents shines through in everything. Sydney is both vibrant and hectic, and dramatically contrasts life in Australia’s vast Outback. From the famous Bondi Beach to the classic Sydney Opera House, Sydney is a must-visit for every traveler. Even if you’re not too keen on big cities, exploring Australia’s main hub and all its wonders will definitely be worth your time. Also unique to Sydney is its exotic urban birdlife: a simple stroll through the city will bring you face-to-face with the Australian white ibis, plenty of rainbow lorikeets, a host of Sulphur-crested cockatoos, and perhaps even a laughing kookaburra!
The Sydney Harbor
The Sydney Harbor skyline is instantly recognizable: its most prominent features are the world-famous Sydney Opera House and the impressive Sydney Harbour Bridge. The Opera House is considered one of the most famous and distinctive buildings in the world. Its distinctive sail-shaped white roof was inspired by nature and meant to resemble clouds, shells, and other natural forms. The nearby Sydney Harbour Bridge is equally iconic, and a stroll through the inner-city suburb The Rocks near the bridge will complete your visit to one of the most famous harbors in the world.
On the Sydney Harbor’s more peculiar sights (Credit: The Bite-Sized Backpacker)
The Blue Mountains National Park
Situated 81 kilometers from Sydney, the Blue Mountains National Park features endless hiking trails, amazing waterfalls, and dramatic gorges. It is one of the most accessible locations to spot wild kangaroos and koalas for day-trippers, as the mountain range encompasses extensive eucalyptus forests. The most famous attraction in the park is the impressive rock formation known as the Three Sisters: three large sandstone pillars rising above the forest. Aside from hiking, the park also lends itself to other activities, such as abseiling, mountain biking, rock climbing, and horse riding.
Whale Watching
Sydney is the best place to spot humpback whales. Many eco-friendly tour companies arrange whale watching tours from the city’s Circular Quay. After spending the summer in Antarctic waters, humpback whales pass the Australian coast between April and November to mate in the warm northern waters. Humpback whales are often playful and are known to breach the surface when coming up for air. Sometimes whales come up to just 200 meters from the coast, allowing you to spot them without paying for a tour. Head to the Cape Solander Lookout or the Barrenjoey Headland Lighthouse for the best free whale-watching spots.
Surfing
Surfers are as inherent to Australia as the many kangaroos that hop through the Outback. Together, New South Wales and Queensland feature some of the best surfing beaches in the world. Don’t be surprised by the number of surfboards you’ll see at luggage collection when you land at Sydney Airport: many international surfers land in Sydney especially to catch the waves at Umina, Manly, or Bondi Beach. Of course, chances are that some of those boards will belong to Aussie surfers who’ve visited Bali to change their own surf for a bit. When visiting Australia’s popular surfing beaches, don’t be surprised to see a pod of dolphins every once in a while.
Surf lesson on Bondi Beach (Credit: The Bite-Sized Backpacker)
Noodling in Lightning Ridge
Lightning Ridge is one of the many small outback towns in New South Wales. The town can be reached within 8 hours by car or bus from Brisbane. Lightning Ridge is known for its extensive opal mining fields. When heavy machinery is used to dig out opal mines, large heaps of dirt are collected in so-called mine dumps. This allows locals to engage in the popular pastime of “noodling”: carefully brushing through the mine dumps in search of specs of opal, nicknamed “noodles”. Lightning Ridge itself is as quirky and bizarre as the noodlers themselves: from the walking routes marked by painted car doors and the idiocrasy of the Astronomers Monument to the underground museums, the town is perhaps one of the greatest off-beat destinations in the world.
Noodling for opal in Lighting Ridge (Credit: The Bite-Sized Backpacker)
The Chambers of the Black Hand
Opal miner Ron Canlin “might not have found opal,” locals state, “but he did hit paydirt.” Canlin turned his opal mine in Lightning Ridge into an underground museum by carving hundreds of reliefs into it’s walls. The museum consists of an underground maze of corridors decorated with painted reliefs of different animals, pop culture icons, and celebrities. From kangaroos, kiwis and dinosaurs to Batman, Captain America, Buddha, and more, the mine is a true work of art. If you get lost in mine’s hallways, don’t be surprised to run into a man chipping away at the walls: that’ll be Canlin himself, endlessly expanding his maze to include more works, such as Michelangelo’s The Creation of Adam or a relief displaying the entire cast of Star Wars.
John Murray Art Gallery
In 2019, Lightning Ridge’s John Murray Art Gallery sadly burned down, destroying much of the work of one of the Outback’s most talented artists. Luckily, not all was lost, and John continued to create his iconic whimsical photo-realistic paintings. His work A Moment of Realization, in which an emu is flabbergasted by the confrontation with an approaching car, is one of his most popular works – and one of his many works displaying just how ‘deeply stupid’ emus can be according to the town’s locals. Another one of Murray’s emu-related artworks can be found along the Castlereagh Highway: Stanley the Emu, an 18-meter high emu sculpted out scrap metal, a Volkswagen Beetle, and several satellite dishes.
The John Murray Art Gallery (Credit: The Bite-Sized Backpacker)
Queensland
Gold Coast
Though surfing is immensely popular in Sydney, the city isn’t Australia’s main surfing destination. One of the most popular surfing hubs in Australia is Gold Coast, where surfers ride the impressive waves of Snapper Rocks, Surfers Paradise, and other beaches.
Emerald Beach
The town of Emerald Beach lies just north of Coffs Harbour, between Sydney and Brisbane. Though the town itself mostly plays host to families and surfers, wildlife enthusiasts will also love the small town’s beach. In the oddly-named Look At Me Now Headland, eastern grey kangaroos are abundant. The small kangaroos can be seen anywhere on and around the beach, as they lazily nibble on the helm grass, hop through the bushes and enjoy the ocean views.
Eastern grey kangaroos on the Look At Me Now Headland (Credit: The Bite-Sized Backpacker)
Brisbane
Though Brisbane is less bustling than cities such as Sydney and Melbourne, it has several unique selling points. The first is The Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, the oldest and largest koala sanctuary in the world. Another highlight is the South Bank, where a nice stroll will help you pass the time. The South Bank is a beautiful green area along the ocean, where the city fully comes alive in the evening. There are plenty of café’s and restaurants along the South Bank, as well as a lovely swimming facility and a beautiful pagoda. Throughout the year, several cultural markets pop up in the region’s Parklands.
The Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary
The Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary in Fig Tree Pocket is the highlight of Brisbane. The park opened in 1927 to take care of sick, injured, and orphaned koalas. The park offers visitors the unique opportunity to interact with koalas, kangaroos, and wallabies. Additionally, the park features wombats, Tasmanian devils, echidnas, and many more native species. In the sanctuary’s Platypus House you’ll find a special aquarium where you can observe Australia’s oddest creature, the platypus. Finally, in the park’s 5-acre kangaroo reserve, it is possible to feed and pet kangaroos.
Kookaburra at the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary (Credit: The Bite-Sized Backpacker)
Fraser Island
Fraser Island is the largest sand island in the world. The island is 123 kilometers long, and it is said that the island has more sand than the Sahara. The most popular activities on the island include 4×4 off-road driving and wildlife spotting. There are many animals present on the island, such as dingoes, swamp wallabies, gliders, a large number of birds and snakes, and other reptiles.
After taking the ferry from Hervey Bay on the mainland to Hook Point on the island, it is possible to rent a four-wheel drive, which allows you to drive across the desert island. Though the sea surrounding the island is considered unsafe for swimming due to the strong current and the presence of sharks, the island features many crystal clear inland lakes where you can go swimming, such as Lake Wabby and Lake McKenzie.
Cairns
Cairns is the launching pad for almost every scuba diving tour of the Great Barrier Reef. The city lies close to many popular diving sites such as Flynn Reef, Hastings Reef, and Milln Reef. The city itself has a typical summer vibe to it, as most people you’ll meet either just got out of the water, or are going back in. Cairns is home to several wonderful cultural attractions focusing on the country’s indigenous population, such as the Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park, several authentic didgeridoo shops, and art galleries.
The Great Barrier Reef
If you haven’t traveled to Australia to go wildlife spotting, you’ve probably come here to dive. The Great Barrier Reef is by far the most famous reef in the world. Even before Pixar’s FINDING NEMO (2003) magnificently animated the mesmerizing colors of the reef for the big screen, this popular diving location was already known throughout the world.
The Great Barrier Reef stretches out for over 2,300 kilometers along Australia’s east coast and features billions of tiny organisms known as coral polyps. Depending on which dive site you choose, you might want to opt for a snorkeling tour, rather than a diving tour. The reef isn’t very deep and the main difference with diving in the reef is mostly the overwhelming price difference. Despite the Great Barrier Reef’s immense reputations, actual reef diving will be more rewarding in more condensed coral reef areas, such as in Thailand’s Andaman Sea or in Sabah on Borneo.
Explore the vast coral reefs of the Great Barrier Reef (Credit: The Bite-Sized Backpacker)
Frankland Islands
A diving tour passing Machaelmas Cay and Hastings Reef will also take you to the breathtaking Frankland Islands. Situated in the South Pacific Ocean, the islands are uninhabited protected areas featuring pristine white coral beaches and lush rainforests. The islands became well known in the 1990s when the TV-show Ocean Girl (1994-1997) became one of the most popular shows on Australian television. In the series, High Island – one of the five Frankland Islands – served as the home of the beautiful alien/mermaid Neri, who often swims around the island with her best friend, a humpback whale named Charlie.
Esplanade Boardwalk
The Esplanade Boardwalk runs along the Cairns’ picturesque shore for 2.5 kilometers. The Esplanade highlights the ironic nature of Cairns as a water sports location: due to the constant threat of saltwater crocodiles, it is prohibited to visit the city’s beach. The Esplanade Boardwalk is elevated relatively high above the beach to prevent “salties” from climbing up, and visitors from climbing down. To provide tourists with the opportunity to take a dive anyway, the Esplanade features a 4,800 m2 saltwater Lagoon, that’s safe all-year-round. No need to risk swimming between the stingers and crocodiles!
Morning meditation in the Esplanade Boardwalk’s Lagoon (Credit: The Bite-Sized Backpacker)
Daintree Rainforest
Queensland’s Daintree Rainforest is the oldest tropical rainforest in the world. The forest lies north of Cairns and can be visited year-round. It is possible to hike in the forest, though you should always beware of the crocodiles who breed there during the summer months. The dense vegetation with its lush canopy is an extraordinary sight, and a series of aerial walkways will allow you to explore the different levels of the rainforest. The Daintree Rainforest is host to a large range of exotic birds, including the world’s most dangerous bird, the Southern Cassowary.
Northern Territory
Darwin
Darwin’s remote location in Australia’s northern tip makes it the perfect place to find a piece of mind. The laid-back city is a small coastal oasis, offering visitors passage into the Outback and into the Northern Territory’s national parks. Popular destinations near Darwin are Kakadu National Park and the Litchfield National Park. If you prefer some excitement within the city limits, allow yourself to be lowered into the habitat of the crocodiles living at the city’s Crocosaurus Cove in a Cage of Death.
The Outback
The Outback is the heart of Australia. It is also known as “the Red Centre”, “the Red Waste” and “the Never-Never”. The Outback is generally composed of Australia’s vast interior with its extensive red sanded plains and clear waterholes. It is a true paradise for those backpackers seeking a life of adventure. In the Outback, the indigenous Aboriginal cultures still thrive and the Dreamtime Stories are vivid and alive. The region features striking national parks, such as the Uluṟu-Kata Tjuṯa National Park, as well as the Kakadu and Litchfield National Parks.
The Australian Outback (Credit: The Bite-Sized Backpacker)
Kakadu National Park
The Kakadu National Park is home to one the oldest signs of human civilizations in the world: the park features Aboriginal rock art dating back 20,000 years. Kakadu National Park is home to some of the most beautiful waterfalls in Australia and offers fantastic hiking opportunities for backpackers hoping to stay active. Kakadu’s inner wetlands are the perfect place for spotting crocodiles, buffalos, sea eagles, and other wild animals. The park can be easily reached from Darwin.
Litchfield National Park
The Litchfield National Park features several mesmerizing natural sights. Parts of the park are inhabited by millions of termites, who’ve erected striking termite mounds – some reaching up to over two meters. In the park, you’ll also find the Lost City, a series of large sandstone pillars. The pillars closely resemble the remnants of an ancient civilization and remind visitors of the temples at the Angkor Archaeological Park in Cambodia.
Alice Springs
Alice Springs – Alice for short – is one of the largest towns in Australia’s expansive Outback. The town is a great base for further exploration into the Outback and visiting the Northern Territory’s many natural wonders. In Alice Springs, the stars are a little bit brighter and the wildlife is a bit wilder. Though in the town’s surrounding areas you can easily spot wild kangaroos, you can also visit them at the Kangaroo Sanctuary, which was opened in 2005 to provide a home for orphaned baby kangaroos. It has since then expanded to offer a home for adult kangaroos as well.
Uluṟu-Kata Tjuṯa National Park
The Uluṟu-Kata Tjuṯa National is home to two famous rock formations: Uluru (a.k.a. Ayers Rock) and Kata Tjuta (a.k.a. The Olgas). Both Uluru and Kata Tjuta formed over 500 million years ago. Uluru is considered the spiritual heart of Australia. Rising high above the country’s remote desert, Uluru is the Aboriginals’ most important sacred site. The Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park is Aboriginal land and is jointly managed by its traditional owners Anangu and Parks Australia.
The park’s desert landscape is home to dozens of bird and reptile species, as well as mammals. The red kangaroo finds its home in the deserts, as does the adorable spinifex hopping mouse and the curious dingo.
You can experience both Uluru and Kata Tjuta in all its glory at sunrise from the Kata Tjuta Dune Viewing viewpoint. As the sun illuminates the monoliths, it grants them their intense red coloring. Uluru is the Yin to the Yang of Sydney Opera House, as together they are the most recognizable landmarks in Australia – one a wonder of nature, the other one created by men.
The Uluṟu-Kata Tjuṯa National Park (Credit: The Bite-Sized Backpacker)
Uluṟu
The base walk at Uluru leads visitors along the ancient monolith’s base. This 10 kilometer walk will give you the opportunity to get to known the rock and learn about its role in the Aboriginals’ Dreamtime stories. The track allows you to walk the entire circumference of the monolith. After the walk you can visit the Maruku Arts & Crafts art gallery near Uluru’s base, which features Aboriginal paintings and woodcarvings.
Kata Tjuṯa
Located approximately 40 kilometers from Uluru lies Kata Tjuta. “Kata Tjuta” is Pitjantjatjara for “many heads”. Here, you can walk the track of the Valley of the Winds, which allows you to immerse yourself among the impressive red domes of Kata Tjuta.
South Australia
Adelaide
Adelaide lies in close proximity to Australia’s richest wine-producing regions. Adalaide has developed itself as a city where luxury and fine dining reign supreme. The city hosts several eclectic art galleries and restaurants and is home to a series of art and music festivals. Though the city’s main restaurants might be a bit too high-end for most backpackers, there are plenty of laneway bars and eateries where you can dine for a reasonable price. From Adelaide, you can make your way to Australia’s famous wine regions along the Margaret River.
Margaret River
Australia is one of the biggest wine-producing countries in the world. Though a large part of the country consists of desert lands, there are still plenty of valleys where wine can be produced. Many of these valleys can be found around the Margaret River in South Australia. Along the river, millions of liters of wine are produced every year in regions such as Barossa Valley, Eden Valley, and Claire Valley. The Margaret River Wine Region is a must-visit for those backpackers who prefer a good glass of wine to a cold beer.
Kangaroo Island
Kangaroo Island is a paradise for wildlife observers. The island can be reached by ferry from the mainland in approximately 45 minutes. The island features several national parks, including the Kelly Hill Conservation Park and Caves, where you can explore the island’s many caves; the Flinders Chase National Park, where little penguins roam; and the Seal Bay Conservation Park, the home of a large Australian sea lion colony. In addition, Paul’s Place Wildlife Sanctuary offers island visitors to interact with all sorts of unique Australian animals, and in Kingscote you can watch the pelicans feed on the wharf.
The National Parks of Western Australia are abundant with wildlife (Credit: The Bite-Sized Backpacker)
Western Australia
Karijini National Park and the Kimberley
The Australian Outback extends far beyond the Northern Territory. In Western Australia, it includes several national parks. One of them is the Purnululu National Park in the Kimberly region, which features the magnificent orange and black striped Bungle Bungle Range. Another natural wonder in Western Australia is the Karijini National Park, with its spring-fed pools, otherworldly gorges, and the beautiful Fortescue Falls. The national parks can be reached traveling up from Broome, a town made famous by its wealthy pearling industry.
Perth
Get off the beaten track and visit Perth, where the red sands of the Outback meet the blue depths of the ocean. The rugged city lies almost 4,000 kilometers west of Sydney and is not nearly as touristy as its sister cities on the east coast. Very few first-time visitors make it to Perth, but once you’ve decided to visit Australia a second time, Perth might be the perfect place for you to start exploring the west coast and the Outback. Like in Brisbane and on Kangaroo Island, you’ll also find a wonderful wildlife park here; the Caversham Wildlife Park.
Coral Bay and the Ningaloo Reef
A major advantage of visiting Australia’s west coast is that backpacking here becomes a more quiet, personal experience. There aren’t nearly as many tourists swarming the region as on the east coast, and you really get to enjoy your surroundings in a more holistic manner. Visiting Coral Bay illustrates this experience perfectly.
When visiting Coral Bay to explore the Ningaloo Reef, you’ll find you have plenty of opportunities here to explore the reef at your own pace. The Ningaloo Reef is a 260-kilometer long reef trailing the coast of Western Australia. You’ll need nothing more than a snorkel to explore the amazing reefs, where you can encounter sea turtles, tropical fish, manta rays, and gentle whale sharks. During migration seasons, you can even spot humpback whales breaching off-coast.
Dive into the Ningaloo Reef (Credit: The Bite-Sized Backpacker)
Tasmania
Hobart
Tasmania is a world of its own. There are two ways to visit the island: either you take the ferry from Melbourne to Devonport, or you fly directly to Hobart. Unlike in mainland Australia, sea food is very popular in Tasmania. For sea food lovers, Hobart is as good as it gets. Inland streams offer plenty of fishing opportunities, and the shoreline provides locals with rock lobsters, oysters, mussels and more. From Hobart it’s a short drive to Mount Wellington, where you can take in the beautiful scenery of the city and its surroundings.
Wineglass Bay
The Tasmanian coast features many beautiful bays and beaches, yet there’s something about Wineglass Bay’s beach that truly captivated its visitors. Right between the forested mountains, Wineglass Bay’s attractive crescent of sand curls the waters of the South Pacific into the mainland. The quiet, yet popular beach has stolen the hearts of most people who’ve visited it. The growing popularity of the bay has made it a frequently traveled location among visitors of Tasmania, which means that despite its beauty, you might want to consider visiting one of Tasmania’s many less-explored beaches if you’re looking for some peace of mind.
So, you’ve decided to visit New Zealand. Awesome! You’ve booked your ticket and you’re ready to go. Still, a few questions remain: what places will you visit while traveling New Zealand? And what sights would you like to see? For many travelers, visiting New Zealand is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, so it is important to prepare yourself and decide on some of the things you would like to see and do beforehand.
First of all, you’ll have to decide where to start. While most travelers land in Auckland and work their way south, this often means they miss out on New Zealand’s most important highlights when rushing through the South Island at the tail end of their trip. Sure, North Island is where you’ll find big cities such as Auckland and Wellington, but the heart and soul of this island nation lie in the wilderness down south. By starting your trip in Queenstown and working your way up, you’ll not only make sure you get the best of New Zealand, but you’ll also get to experience one of the most amazing alpine aircraft touchdowns ever!
Queenstown is a small town situated on the z-shaped Lake Wakatipu. The scenic town is surrounded by forests and snow-capped mountains, such as The Remarkables and Cecil Peak. The mountains offer plenty of snow sports opportunities for tourists during winter, and in summer the town offers a host of adrenaline-inspiring activities: Queenstown is home to the world’s first bungee jumping site, the Kawarau Bridge Bungy. Still, Queenstown is at its most beautiful in autumn when the leaves change color around the lake and the mountains slowly turn white.
Queenstown is one of the most beautiful towns in New Zealand (Credit: The Bite-Sized Backpacker)
Kawarau Bridge Bungy
The Kawarau Gorge Suspension Bridge features the world’s first permanent commercial bungee site. The site was set up by New Zealander A. J. Hackett, who made his own first jump in Auckland in 1983. The Kawarau Bridge Bungy offers a unique experience for thrill-seekers. The bridge itself runs over the Kawarau River and is part of the beautiful Queenstown Trail, which runs through the Otago region.
Te Anau
The town of Te Anau is the perfect base for exploring the national parks of the Southland region. The town is situated on Lake Te Anau, which provides plenty of water sports activities, such as kayaking, canoeing, and jet boat riding. Additionally, Te Anau’s direct surroundings offer plenty of hiking opportunities. While going for a stroll along the lake, make sure to visit the Te Anau Bird Sanctuary. One of the park’s highlights is the prehistoric-looking takahē, who’s blue feathers you’ll instantly recognize. The sanctuary is open to the public and there’s no admittance fee.
Another popular local attraction lies across Lake Te Anau: the Te Ana-au Caves. The cave system includes a glowworm grotto, which can be explored during daily guided tours.
Fiordland National Park
The Fiordland National Park is home to New Zealand’s most picturesque fjords, including the mesmerizing Milford Sound and Doubtful Sound. The national park features an extensive amount of hiking trails, including the scenic Milford Track and the popular Routeburn Track.
Routeburn Track, classified as a “New Zealand Great Walk”, leads trampers through Fiordland National Park and Mount Aspiring National Park. Keep your eyes peeled for the local wildlife, as many native species find their home in the park’s lush green environment. The park is also home to a handful of wildlife control trappers who spent their days living in the mountains hunting invasive predators.
The Fiordland National Park is full of natural wonders, great and small (Credit: The Bite-Sized Backpacker)
Mount Cook
Mount Cook is the highest mountain in New Zealand. Named Aoraki by the Māori, the mountain reaches 3,724 meters. The mountain’s Māori name roughly translates to “cloud piercer”. Though climbing Mount Cook requires expert mountaineering skills, you can view it up close from Hooker Lake in Hooker Valley just south of the mountain. The Hooker Valley Track leads past several glaciers in the Mount Cook National Park before bringing you face to face with Mount Cook.
Passing the Mount Cook National Park (Credit: The Bite-Sized Backpacker)
Franz Josef Glacier
Traveling from Queenstown past Wanaka along the Haast Highway and its many waterfalls, you eventually reach the town of Franz Josef. The town lies on the north side of the Southern Alps and can also be reached by turning west on the Kumara Junction coming from Nelson or Christchurch.
The famous Franz Josef Glacier lies a two-hour walk away from town, but you can easily hitchhike there. The Franz Josef Glacier is one of the only glaciers in the world situated in a rainforest. While visiting, you can take a guided tour up the glacier, trek through the region’s ice tunnels or – if you plan to do some overspending – take a helicopter tour above the magnificent mountain range.
International Dark Sky Reserve
Unless you’re circling the South Island and plan to travel both sides of the Southern Alps, you’ll have a difficult choice to make: visit the Franz Josef Glacier up north, or the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve down south.
Light pollution creeps up in almost every corner of the earth, but the Aoraki Mackenzie IDSR in the Mackenzie District was the first reserve to be awarded a ‘gold’ status, meaning there is no light pollution at all. The reserve is by far one of the best places in the Southern Hemisphere to go stargazing. A visit to the reserve promises to be a stunning and unforgettable experience.
Christchurch
Christchurch is the largest city on South Island. The Kiwi city suffered a series of earthquakes between September 2010 and January 2012, with the most destructive of them occurring in February 2011. Everyone remembers the earthquakes in a different way. When talking to the city’s residents, you’ll find responses that vary from “devastating” to “awesome”. While some residents lost their loved ones during the earthquake, others profited from a handsome insurance policy that allowed them to build entirely new homes for themselves. Compared to towns such as Queenstown and Kaikōura, Christchurch feels very much alive, especially when the pop-up food trucks arrive in Cathedral Square.
Kaikōura
The town of Kaikōura rests on the east coast of South Island and watches out over the Pacific Ocean. The Kaikōura Peninsula just south of the town center is arguably one of the most beautiful places in New Zealand. The scenic Kaikōura Peninsula Walkway offers you the opportunity to spot the best of New Zealand’s extensive wildlife: from the thousands of New Zealand fur seals inhabiting the peninsula to dolphins, whales, sheep, and more. Hiking the walkway will leave a lasting impression on you.
Thousands of New Zealand fur seals resting on the Kaikōura Peninsula (Credit: The Bite-Sized Backpacker)
Marlborough Sounds
The fjords of Marlborough Sounds are a collection of ancient river valleys near Picton on the Pacific Ocean. Marlborough Sounds is made up of four different fjords: Queen Charlotte, Kenepuru, Pelorus, and Mahau. One of the most stunning hikes leading through the region is the Queen Charlotte Track. This 70-kilometer-long track gives trampers the opportunity to really take in the scope of the breathtaking landscape. As a bonus, the track allows you to spot many native bird species, as well as dolphins, seals, and even the occasional migrating orca and whales.
Abel Tasman National Park
If you’ve had enough of New Zealand’s spectacular mountains and lush rain forests, the Abel Tasman National Park’s golden beaches will show you a completely different side of the country. The coastal area is situated near Nelson and is the perfect getaway for travelers hoping to do some kayaking or boating. On top of that, there are plenty of hiking opportunities as well. Walk the beautiful Abel Tasman Coast Track and explore the park’s sandy beaches for some well-earned relaxation.
The Pancake Rocks
The Punakaiki ‘Pancake’ Rocks are the most visited natural attraction on the South Island’s West Coast. Punakaiki Rocks is one of the many popular stops along the South Island’s State Highway 6. The road, known as the ‘west coast highway’ starts in Invercargill and hits the coast around Haast. From there it zigzags past the Franz Josef Glacier and stretches out all the way past the Kumara Junction to the Abel Tasman National Park and Nelson, ending in Blenheim. The Punakaiki ‘Pancake’ Rocks rest between Greymouth and Westport. The rocks feature several vertical blowholes, and really do resemble pancakes.
North Island
Wellington
After watching Whale Rider (2002) in the small cinema onboard the Cook Strait ferry from Picton to Wellington, you’ll arrive in New Zealand’s bustling capital city. That is, of course, if you’ve chosen to travel south to north. Either way, Wellington’s urban vibe stands in sharp contrast to the quiet life down on South Island. There’s always something to see or do in Wellington’s harbor on the Cook Strait. The city’s true highlight, however, is the Te Papa Tongarewa Museum of New Zealand. The museum is a must-visit for anyone willing to learn more about the Māori, as well as the history of New Zealand.
Exploring Wellington’s harbor (Credit: The Bite-Sized Backpacker)
Te Papa Tongarewa Museum of New Zealand
The Te Papa Tongarewa is a wonderful museum that features several exhibitions highlighting different aspects of New Zealand’s history. From the nation’s origin as part of the Gondwanaland supercontinent to its extensive mountain ranges which continue to grow up until this very day, the museum sheds light on all that is New Zealand. Admire the gigantic moa bird, walk the length of a real blue whale skeleton, and admire the pride of the museum, a colossal squid from the depths of the ocean.
Te Papa is also the best place to learn more about the Polynesians who first settled New Zealand, and later became known as the Māori.
The Weta Cave
Aside from the wonderful Te Papa Tongarewa, Wellington also features the Weta Cave. The Weta Cave is a shop and mini-museum featuring many artefacts from the world of film. The special effects and prop company Weta Workshop worked on many films, from The Lord of the Rings (2001-2003) and Black Sheep (2006) to Thor: Ragnarok (2017) and classics such as Xena: Warrior Princess (1995-2001). A guided tour through the workshop itself will bring you face to face with both the artists and their work.
Tongariro National Park
The Tongariro Alpine Crossing in the Tongariro National Park is one of New Zealand’s most popular tramping tracks. The sheer magnificence of the crossing convinces many hikers – both experienced and inexperienced – to take on the challenge of finishing the 20-kilometer track. It generally takes between 6 to 8 hours to finish the hike. One of the route’s most popular sights is Mount Ngauruhoe, the epic mountain which dubbed as Mount Doom in the LORD OF THE RINGS-trilogy.
Keep in mind that the Tongariro Crossing is often closed during winter due to dangerous weather conditions. If you don’t manage to fit the hike into your itinerary, there’s always the option to admire ‘Mount Doom’ from the Desert Road, or from the shores of Lake Taupo.
Rotorua
The area of Rotorua is known for its geothermal activity. Ask any New Zealander how they feel about Rotorua, and they’ll most likely jokingly answer “it stinks!”. Visit the city yourself and you’ll realize it’s not a joke – it’s the truth. A common nickname for Rotorua is the “Sulphur City”, due to geothermal hydrogen sulfide emissions which can be smelled throughout the city. Though it takes a while to get used to walking around in a city that permanently smells like rotten eggs, Rotorua features many wonderful sights, including the Sulphur Flats, luxury hot spas, mud pools, the Rainbow Springs wildlife park, and the authentic Māori village Whakarewarewa.
The Rotorua Museum (Credit: The Bite-Sized Backpacker)
The Sulphur Flats
The Sulphur Flats lie just beyond the Polynesian Spa and the Rotorua Museum on Rotorua’s tiny peninsula. Here you can walk right in between the bubbling and boiling mud pools and observe the steam rushing out of the many thermal vents. The peninsula is home to thousands of birds and offers unique ocean views. Alternatively, you can visit Kuirau Park, where fenced of natural geothermal pools give you a clear indication of what’s happening beneath the earth.
Whakarewarewa
Te Whakarewarewatanga O Te Ope Taua A Wahiao – Whakarewarewa for short – is a rural geothermal area in the Taupo Volcanic Zone. The volcanic zone includes an authentic Māori village where you can experience the culture and traditions of New Zealand’s aboriginals. Eat from the village’s natural make-shift geothermal ovens, the ‘hangi’, enjoy a live haka performance, visit a local tribal tattoos artist, or await the frequent eruption of the town’s Pohutu Geyser.
Gas bubbling up from the thermal pools of Whakarewarewa (Credit: The Bite-Sized Backpacker)
Rainbow Springs
Rainbow Springs, Rotorua’s wildlife and nature park, offers you the easiest opportunity to spot a real-life kiwi bird. The park is the world’s leading kiwi conservation center and offers viewers a look into the natural history of New Zealand’s rare wildlife. Aside from the famous kiwi, the park is home to many different types of birds, lizards, and fish, including the kea, New Zealand’s famous alpine parrot.
Waitomo Glowworm Caves
As an alternative to the glowworm caves in Te Anau, you can visit the popular Waitomo Glowworm Caves. The North Island hosts several glowworm caves, all featuring the New Zealand glowworm – a species native to New Zealand. The tiny worms light up the caves as stars in the sky, invoking a sense of magic. The glowworms are insect larvae that glow through bioluminescence, using their lights to lure their prey into their webs. While doing so, they create a truly amazing spectacle.
Hobbiton Movie Set
Though not one of New Zealand’s natural wonders, the village of Hobbiton is still one of the most beautiful and picturesque places on the North Island. It’s not necessary to be a fan of The Lord of the Rings (2001-2003) to enjoy the amazing details of the tiny fictional village created by Peter Jackson and his amazing creative team. After the filming of The Lord of the Rings, the village, which was built on privately owned land, was partially torn down and fell into decay. On the landowners’ request, it was rebuilt in a more permanent fashion for The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey (2012). The Hobbiton Movie Set is now open to visitors, and it is even possible to rest and have a drink at the village’s famous Green Dragon Inn.
Explore the mythology of The Lord of the Rings at the Hobbiton Movie Set (Credit: The Bite-Sized Backpacker)
Hot Water Beach
Between the high and low water tidal reaches, hot water bubbles up through the sands of the aptly named Hot Water Beach. Underground hot springs filter up through the sand, offering visitors the chance to create their own private spa by digging pools in the sand. Make sure to arrive early enough to dig your own pool and wait till it fills up with warm water from the river flowing below the beach. It’s the ultimate relaxing experience!
Auckland
Auckland is New Zealand’s largest city, serving as the nation’s main gateway for foreign visitors. The city’s role as a port of call is reflected in Auckland’s status as a multicultural melting pot. Workers and students from all over the world find their (often temporary) home in Auckland. The city’s metropolitan vibe can be felt in every corner of the city. Auckland highlights are the harbor walkway, the iconic Sky Tower, and Mount Eden, a lush green dormant volcanic cone rising high above the suburban districts.
Roam the harbor of bustling Auckland (Credit: The Bite-Sized Backpacker)
Cape Reinga
Finally reaching the northern tip of New Zealand, you can get off the beaten path and travel in the direction few other backpackers choose to go. From Auckland, head north past Matakana towards Cape Reinga on the Aupouri Peninsula. Cape Reinga is situated in the northernmost tip of New Zealand and features a beautiful little lighthouse. The relatively unexplored north of North Island is well worth a visit, as it features ancient forests, high waterfalls, gorgeous lakes and fjords, endless coastlines, and best of all: very few tourists.
Read everything you need to know about backpacking in Australia. What’s the best way to navigate one of the largest countries in the world? What is the Tim Tam Slam, and why should you try it? What should you bring to survive a trip to the Outback? And where can you go to spot Australia’s unique wildlife? Learn all about Australia in our complete guide to backpacking ‘the land Down Under’.
Australia is one of the most diverse countries in the world. From the blistering ochre sands of the outback to the wealth of the Great Barrier Reef and the urban hubs of Sydney and Melbourne, the country has something to offer for every type of traveler. Australia consists of the Australian mainland, the island of Tasmania, and numerous smaller islands. The country’s present-day culture is shaped by the nation’s colonial past, the Australian government’s encouragement of immigration from mainland Europe throughout the 20th century, and of course its Aboriginal citizens.
Many backpackers and other travelers visit Australia to explore the country’s extensive national parks and its unique wildlife. Together, the kangaroo and emu serve as the symbols of the nation on the Australian Coat of Arms. Equally famous are the adorable koalas and the otherworldly platypus. Still, locals jokingly state that “in Australia, everything can kill you”. Aside from the country’s more gentle, well-known animals, Australia is also home to many dangerous animals, such as saltwater crocodiles, box jellyfish, taipan snakes, brown snakes, tiger snakes, redback spiders, and more. Even a dive in the reef can kill you through coral poisoning, and an intimidated male kangaroo might pose a serious threat.
Despite the many deadly creatures living in Australia, it’s still one of the safest, most comfortable countries in the world to go backpacking in. “Aussie” – as the country is lovingly called by locals – is a great place for inexperienced backpackers to try their luck living on the open road.
Uluru, the Heart of Australia (Credit: The Bite-Sized Backpacker)
Quick Facts
Capital: The capital of Australia is Canberra.
Language: The official language in Australia is (Australian) English.
Currency: The official currency in Australia is the Australian dollar (AUD).
Power Plugs: Plug Type I , with the electricity supply running at 230 volts.
Drinking water: In Australia, the tap water is fine to drink pretty much everywhere. Do bring your own water when traveling long distances without rest stops along the way, and keep in mind that remote places in the Outback might not have running water.
Safety: While locals joke that everything in Australia can kill you, the large island nation is actually one of the safest countries in the world to travel. Australia is a safe and welcoming destination for inexperienced backpackers. Backpacking here will only be as difficult as you make it.
7 things to look forward to: kangaroos, the Tim Tam Slam, the Great Barrier Reef, red sand, graffiti art, Lightning Ridge, Uluru.
Video: On the Road: Australia
See what it’s like to travel Australia! (Credit: The Bite-Sized Backpacker)
Money saving tips: backpacking Australia on a budget
How much money do you need to travel Australia? Traveling on a budget will be a challenge in Australia. It’s no secret that many young adults come from abroad to work and travel in Australia for a bit of extra travel money. Wages are high, and by living in hostels they can keep their costs low enough to earn enough money to fund their further backpacking adventures. In order to make it through Australia without leaving empty-handed, you’ll have to carefully pick and choose your accommodation and transportation.
Australia is a land of many comforts, and these comforts you’ll have to pay for. Like in its neighboring country New Zealand, accommodation, transportation, and activities come at a relatively steep price. One of the best ways of saving money in Australia is by buying a used car or campervan or rent one from a local rental company.
Though there are many low-budget internal flights, the country is so expansive, adding up all the flights you’ll need to get around will take up most of your budget. Flying the triangle of Melbourne, Sydney, and Uluru, for example, will cost you about AUD$1.000,- (€615,- or US$725,-). Of course, navigating a country as large as Australia by wheeled transportation will take much, much longer than flying. Perhaps the best way to navigate Australia if time is not on your side is through a combination of cheap flights for long distances and taking busses or hitchhiking on the shorter stretches.
Hitchhiking in the Outback (Credit: The Bite-Sized Backpacker)
To compensate for the high cost of travel, choose your accommodation based on what you need most. Make sure that each place you book has a kitchen where you can prepare your own meals and don’t worry too much about having to share a room with strangers. Hostels are plentiful in Australia, and making use of them will save you quite a bit of money.
While backpacking the land Down Under, pick and choose which activities you’re willing to pay for and which ones you’ll probably be able to do in other countries for a better price. This goes for visiting clubs and bars as well: there’s no better way to burn a hole in your pocket in Aussie than spending an evening in a bar. Instead, have a drink in your hostel and get to know the many backpackers whose path lies parallel to yours.
Most other blogs might suggest a budget of AUD$3.500,- (€2.100,- or US$2.500,-) per month per person, flights included. You can get your spending down to a monthly budget of less than AUD$2.400,- per person (€1.450,- or US$1.750,-) though, if you don’t go overboard with your spending. Your costs for backpacking Australia will largely be determined by your need for comfort in terms of transportation, accommodation, and food and drinks.
Quick Tips
A few quick tips for saving money while backpacking Australia:
Buy or rent a car or a campervan.
Track ticket prices of budget flights through Skyscanner to get the best prices for national flights.
Hitchhike short distances.
Stay in hostels.
Do your own cooking.
Minimize drinking outside of your hostel.
Accommodation
Sleeping in Australia
Accommodation options are limitless in Australia. The town of Yulara hosts the perfect example of Australian accommodation standards. Situated in the Northern Territory near Uluru, the town was specially designed for tourists. Walking the town’s circular road, you’ll pass luxurious hotels, campgrounds, a backpackers lodge, a resort, and more. The government made sure every type of traveler could be accommodated when visiting the Uluṟu-Kata Tjuṯa National Park. The same goes for the rest of the country.
As a backpacker, you’ll most likely find yourself in a hostel. Unlike European hostels, however, Australian hostels are often more crowded and noisier, and dorms are larger: don’t be surprised to share your room with 20-30 people in major cities such as Melbourne and Sydney! Many young backpackers come to Australia on a work-and-travel program, and many of them choose to live in hostels. To enjoy your stay in Aussie’s hostels, be prepared for the presence of long-term residents. Bring earplugs and a sleep mask, and above all: dine early. Don’t hesitate too long to start your daily cooking, because you’ll risk having to wait several hours for the kitchen appliances and utensils to become available again once the long-term residents start cooking.
Here are some of our favorite hostels in Australia:
Brisbane at dusk (Credit: The Bite-Sized Backpacker)
Work and travel
The Australian government offers backpackers willing to work during their travels a Working Holiday visa for up to 12 months. The visa allows people from 18 to 30 years old to come to Australia for an extended working holiday. Once finished, travelers can apply for a second Working Holiday visa, with the requirement that they have completed three months of specified regional work in the country during their first Working Holiday visa.
Working in Australia is perhaps one of the world’s only true “get rich quick”-schemes. Wages are high, and if you keep your expenses low, you’ll easily be able to travel around the country on a comfortable budget. Depending on how long you work and how much you save, you might be able to earn enough money to not just backpack Australia, but nearby regions such as New Zealand, the Polynesian islands, and Southeast Asia as well.
Getting around in Australia
Renting a Campervan or Car
Car sharing is one of the most popular ways of navigation in Australia. By renting a car or a campervan at a local rental service and sharing the costs with your mates, you can easily navigate the vast country on a budget. If time is not on your side, this does mean you’ll have to decide whether you want to travel the east coast, the west coast, or the outback, as you’ll most likely won’t be able to visit all three.
It’s also possible to buy a used car or campervan from another traveler. You’ll find many backpackers trying to sell their vehicles on Gumtree, and there are several Facebook groups designed for backpackers seeking to buy or sell cars in Australia, such as Australia Backpackers or Backpacker Cars Australia.
Road conditions in Australia are excellent and traffic is well-regulated. Do keep in mind that Australians drive on the left side of the road and most vehicles will have the steering wheel on their right side. In the country’s vast Outback, you might find a few sand roads when visiting small towns. Additionally, beware of kangaroos crossing the road around dusk and dawn when driving in the desert. You’ll notice that most cars, busses, and “fieldies” navigating the Outback have a “roo bar” installed: a metal framework on the front of the vehicle to protect it during collisions with kangaroos, emus, or cattle.
Rent a “fieldie” to explore the Outback (Credit: The Bite-Sized Backpacker)
Hitchhiking
Hitchhiking is a nice way to get around Australia for free. As flights are expensive, hitchhiking offers a welcoming alternative. Australians are often quite friendly and will be happy to share their car with you. It’s a great way to get in touch with locals, and you get to explore places you’d otherwise miss out on. Keep in mind though that hitchhiking will not be as easy in Australia as it is in other countries. The country has a history of violent incidents involving hitchhikers, and not everyone will be keen to take you along. Follow your instincts, and always try to take a picture of the license plate of the vehicle you get in to send to family members and friends.
Hitchhiking will get you from city to city and might even help you find your way in the Outback. Outside of the major cities, it might take longer to hitch a ride, as many people are simply commuting between work and home, and will count on others to pick you up. Also keep in mind that cities often lie hundreds of kilometers apart, meaning you’ll have to hitch several rides to get to your destination.
Hitchhiking is considered illegal in Queensland and Victoria, so giving it a try on the Great Ocean Road is a no-go.
Busses
Bus transportation is an affordable option to get around Australia. Bus fares are lower on the east coast than on the west coast, as the routes in the east are more popular and well-traveled. There are several bus companies operating in Australia, among which Greyhound Australia and Premier. Busses will easily get you from city to city, and when booked in advance, can be relatively cheap. If you plan to go into the Outback or visit another less popular destination, schedule your trip in advance as there might only be one or two busses going there per week.
Trains
Australia’s long-distance and trans-continental trains are quite expensive. Though the Australian railways offer special backpacker prices, this might still be far beyond your budget. Traveling by train has its advantages, as you’ll get to see a lot of the country, but you’ll have limited access to certain off-beat destinations.
Domestic Flights
No form of transportation in Australia will make you forget the extensiveness of the continent. It can take a long time to get around the country through ground travel. Choosing air travel for long stretches might prove to be worth the cost of a flight ticket. One of the country’s most reliable budget airlines is Jetstar.
Boats
Taking a domestic flight is also your fastest option for getting to Tasmania. As an alternative, you can travel to the island by ferry. The Spirit of Tasmania sails from Melbourne to Tasmania and back six days a week. A one-way trip takes between 9-11 hours.
The Tasmanian devil, the iconic symbol of Tasmania (Credit: The Bite-Sized Backpacker)
When to visit Australia
Located in the Southern Hemisphere, summer runs from December through February in Australia, while winter runs from June through August. Given that Australia is quite a large country, weather conditions and temperatures can vary greatly throughout the nation.
The east coast, running from Melbourne up to Cairns, is the most-traveled section of Australia. The best time to travel there would be at the tail end of spring, when temperatures begin to drop. While beach life can still be comfortable around April and May, hiking and other outdoor activities will also become more pleasant to undertake during these months, as the scorching heat fades away. During late Spring and Summer, temperatures can be uncomfortably high, especially in the Outback. Traveling north in the late spring will allow you to stay ahead of the rains and bring you right into the arms of the nation’s eternal paradise: around Cairns and the Great Barrier Reef it tends to be pleasantly warm year-round. Backpacking the east coast southwards, it’s wise to leave a bit earlier. The cold weather tends to crawl upwards from Melbourne, and you’ll be traveling towards it.
In any case, try to avoid stinger season in Queensland between November and May, as the beaches become unsafe due to the yearly presence of the deadly box jellyfish.
What to pack for Australia
The essentials
I’m going to Australia, and I’m bringing…
A bottle of sunscreen.
A hat or sarong.
A light-weight scarf.
A light-weight umbrella.
Australia is generally known for its warm temperatures, especially during the high seasons. During summer, weather conditions can get beyond uncomfortable, and you’ll need a way to protect yourself from the scorching heat if you want to be able to get around. Therefore, one of the most essential things to bring on your trip is a bottle of sunscreen, and a hat or sarong to cover your head on hot days. Though you can purchase most backpacking essentials you need in the country itself, prices are quite high compared to most other nations.
As Australia features some of the most unique and exciting forms of wildlife, as well as exceptional art scenes based on the Aboriginal culture, make sure to keep a little room in your backpack for when you find one of those one-of-a-kind souvenirs you won’t encounter anywhere else. There’s a very big chance you’ll fly home with at least one or two tiny koala plushies to hand out at home.
Given the country’s size and the changeable weather, it’s important to pack for good weather, but also to be prepared for rain. Bring a scarf and a small foldable umbrella to keep yourself warm and dry when encountering bad weather. Light-weight umbrellas also perfectly lend themselves for protection during the country’s many hot days.
Australian souvenirs (Credit: The Bite-Sized Backpacker)
Visa Information
The most-used type of visa for Australia is the eVisitor visa. This visa is valid for tourism or business purposes for up to three months at a time, within a 12-month period. Most backpackers opt for this visa, as it is freely available online for a large number of countries. As an alternative, there’s the Electronic Travel Authority visa (ETA), which you can apply for through your local travel agent. The ETA visa also allows you to visit Australia for up to three months.
Australia additionally offers work-and-travel visas for travelers between 18 and 30 years old (or 35 in some cases). To be eligible for this visa, your country must participate in Australia’s Working Holiday Maker program. Instead of the regular three months, you’ll be allowed to stay in Australia for 12 months and you’ll be enabled to work while you are there.
Enjoy the local culture
The Old and the New
Up until its independence in 1901, Australia was a part of the United Kingdom. From the states of Queensland and Victoria to Mount Victoria in Tasmania, many of the nation’s cities’ and regions’ names still reflect its colonial past. As such, Australian culture shares a lot of common ground with the United Kingdom and the neighboring country New Zealand.
Australia has a predominantly Western culture, with some Indigenous influences. Though human habitation in Australia began over 65,000 years ago, very little is left of the country’s indigenous culture. Still, many spiritual beliefs and art forms of the Aboriginals have survived, and are being kept alive by those advocating the rights of the country’s original inhabitants.
Australians are generally very friendly and welcoming. They have a good sense of humor, love a good conversation, and won’t mind teaching you a thing or two about Australian slang – even if you’re a pommy (Englishman), a sheepshagger (New Zealander), a reffo (refugee), or even a shark biscuit (surfer) coming to explore the famous Australian beaches!
Australian slang
Australian English contains hundreds of hilarious words and sayings. Down Under (in Australia), Aussies (Australians) put on their trackies (tracksuit pants), or bathers (bathing suits) and thongs (flip-flops), to slap their snags (sausages) on the barbie (barbecue) when visiting the beach with their oldies (parents) for Chrissie (Christmas). Or they might just do so when they take a sickie (sick day from work)! The smoke of the barbie will also help to keep the mozzies (mosquitos) away. If the weather is down, a mob (a group of people) might go to Maccas (McDonald’s) for a bite, or stay in and watch some footie (football) with their mates (friends; used for men and women).
Though Aussie slang sounds like a dog’s breakfast (pretty messy), and the Aussies themselves seem to have a few kangaroos loose in the top paddock (to be crazy), it’s all actually pretty dardy (cool) once you get the hang of it. Be careful though: though it might seem as if ending any word in -ie, -y, or -o is the perfect way to get a hold of Aussie slang, you’ll be singled out as an imposter immediately. Not even a fair dinkum (true) Aussie could tell you why Brizzie (Brisbane) sounds perfectly alright, but using ‘Mellie’ to refer to Melbourne sounds ridiculous.
A “roo” relaxing (Credit: The Bite-Sized Backpacker)
Aboriginal culture
Recent cultural respect strategies have started to focus Australia’s attention on the preservation of the country’s indigenous culture. In many cities, you’ll find cultural markets, aboriginal-style artworks, cultural tours, and shops selling authentic Aboriginal craftworks, such as art pieces, boomerangs and digeridoos.
To really experience Aboriginal culture, a visit to Uluru is a must. Uluru – also known as Ayer’s Rock – is one of the aboriginals’ most important sacred sites. The world-famous rock formation plays an important role in many of the Aboriginal Dreamtime stories of the area, and visitors can join free walking tours to explore the rock with an Aboriginal guide. The area is also home to the Maruku Arts & Crafts art gallery, which features Aboriginal paintings and woodcarvings. The Aboriginal community of Mutitjulu still live inside the Uluṟu-Kata Tjuṯa National Park itself.
Another great way to explore Aboriginal culture is at the Aboriginal Heritage Office in Freshwater, which hosts a museum of Aboriginal artifacts.
Uluṟu and Kata Tjuṯa are sacred Aboriginal sites (Credit: The Bite-Sized Backpacker)
The Outback
Actor Johnny Depp once stated that since his character Jack Sparrow had spent the majority of his life on the high seas underneath the scorching sun, there was no way the heat wouldn’t have affected him mentally. This gave Depp the right hook to create the quirky pirate for Disney’s popular pirate franchise. The same effect can be observed throughout the Australian Outback.
Locals living in the Outback – often hundreds of kilometers removed from civilization, without running water, sewer systems, or paved roads – personally claim that anyone who chooses to live in the Outback must be a little nuts. The playful self-mockery of the residents of Australia’s Red Waste translates into some of the most amazing forms of art you’ll find on the continent, as is evident in places such as the old miners’ town Lightning Ridge in New South-Wales.
Things to eat and drink
Heavily inspired by British culture, but unique in its own right, Australian cuisine has a few excellent local specialties for you to try. Native meats such as kangaroo, crocodile, and emu will give you a taste of what indigenous cultures have been eating for thousands of years, while more modern culinary inventions come in the form of the Tim Tim Slam and the chip sanger.
Despite the country’s massive coastline, Australians haven’t developed a large sea food-culture outside of the traditional British fish and chips. Australia’s vast lands lend themselves well for farming livestock, which becomes evident through the popularity of chicken and beef.
In addition to developing their own local cuisine, Australians also developed their own culinary jargon: they have breakie (breakfast) in the morning, prepare a quick spagbol (spaghetti bolognese) when there’s no time for a barbie (Australian barbecue) and in addition, they offer plenty of dining opportunities for veggos (vegetarians).
Australian Barbecue
Barbecuing is an inherent part of Australian food culture. The country’s indigenous people have always cooked their food outside, and modern-day Australians happily continue to do so. From prawns and sausages to lamb chops and kangaroo steaks, pretty much anything can be ‘slapped onto the barbie’. Having a good time with your mates is central to the Australian barbecue experience, so more often than not, beer and wine flow richly during an Aussie BBQ party.
The Tim Tam Slam
The Tim Tam Slam is a wildly popular Australian ritual in which a chocolate-covered biscuit is used as a drinking straw for a hot liquid – most often a hot coffee. The Tim Tam is a delicious chocolate biscuit native to Australia.
To perform the Tim Tam Slam, unwrap a Tim Tam cookie, and nibble off the two diagonally opposite corners of the cookie, exposing the biscuit that lies within. Dunk one end of the Tim Tam into your beverage and begin to suck up your drink through the opposite side of the cookie. You should be able to draw the liquid through the biscuit until it becomes saturated with coffee. Time your slam (the eating of the saturated cookie) well, as it will fall apart if you wait too long!
The infamous Tim Tam Slam (Credit: The Bite-Sized Backpacker)
Kangaroo meat
Yes, kangaroos are unique, wonderful, and cute critters – especially for those who don’t live in Australia. In the country itself, however, they’re simply part of everyday life. There are two kangaroos for every person in Australia. In the Outback the ‘roos are even described as pests, as they often destroy crops and cause car accidents. Kangaroo meat has been eaten by Australians for thousands of years. The meat is eaten in the form of steaks, burgers, and sausages, but is also used to prepare pasta dishes, pizzas, and meat pies. Kangaroo meat is extremely lean and low in fat.
Crocodile and emu meat
Other native Australian species that could make it onto your plate are the saltwater crocodile and the emu. Crocodile meat tastes a bit like chicken. Since it’s quite chewy, it’s best diced and mixed into a salad. Emu meat on the other hand is very lean and has a beef-like taste.
Barramundi
Also known as the Asian sea bass, the barramundi is an exotic fish widely distributed in Northern Australia. The word ‘ barramundi’ comes from the Aboriginal language, meaning “large-scaled river fish”. The barramundi is the most popular fish in the country. Since Australian fishing regulations are quite strict and demand is high, large quantities of barramundi are actually imported from South and Southeast Asia.
Bush tucker
Bush tucker, also known as bush food, includes any native Australian foods eaten by the Aboriginal in the country’s vast desert. Animal native foods include the previously mentioned kangaroos, crocodiles, and emus, but also the witchetty grub. The witchetty grub is a large, white, wood-eating moth larvae. The larvae feed on the witchetty bush found in the Northern Territory and have been part of the bush diet themselves ever since the first natives moved out into the Outback.
Other types of bush tucker include fruits, such as the green bush plum, kutjera (the ‘Australian desert raisin’), quandong (the ‘wild peach’), and vegetables, such as various native figs and yams.
Chip sanger
This working-class calorie bomb will help you hike up and down any mountain. A chip sanger, also known as the “chip butty”, is a white bread sandwich made with French fries and condiments, such as ketchup, mayonnaise, or brown sauce. Like fish and chips, the “butty” finds its true origin in the United Kingdom: “butty” is Welsh for “friend”. The chip sanger is considered a cheap late-night snack.
Preparing a chip sanger (Credit: The Bite-Sized Backpacker)
The Lot Burger
The Australian Burger “with the Lot” is a jam-packed burger with more ingredients than anyone can handle without creating a dog’s breakfast. Australians try very hard to make their hamburgers healthy, so you’ll find most Lot Burgers contain pickled or cooked beetroot, shredded iceberg lettuce, avocado, tomatoes, pineapple rings, and more next to the regular meat patty.
Meat Pies
Through meat pies, Australians, New Zealanders, Britons, and the Irish still find a common language. A particular good Australian meat pie combination consists of chunky pieces of meat with beans and onion. Of course, there are many other varieties of meat pies, and there’s no “classic” Australian meat pie recipe to be found. You can buy meat pies almost anywhere: they are most often consumed as late-night snacks, or as bakery treats.
Vegemite
Foreigners find little love for Australia’s favorite food spread. Vegemite is a thick, dark brown liquid made from leftover brewers’ yeast extract. The spread is spiced up with various vegetables and other condiments. Though considered very healthy, the spread’s strong, bitter flavor has kept it from becoming an overseas hit. Still, when in Rome…!
Get off the Beaten track
Australia’s big cities offer comfort, a wealth of restaurants, plenty of shopping opportunities, and many exciting activities. Still, if you’ve just flown in from a similar Western country and came to Australia to gather new experiences, you might want to consider skipping Aussie’s cities altogether. If you really wish to explore Australia and find out what makes this country so unique, don’t spend any more time than necessary in places such as Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane. Though the cities have their charms, they are similar metropolises to the ones you’ll find in any other Western nation.
To bring your Australian experience back to its core, head straight into the cinematic wonderland of the vast Outback. Visit the farms and the miner towns, stand face to face with a mob of kangaroos, drive around in a fieldie (a truck used to drive in the outback), and feel the warm red sand of the desert slip through your fingers. Hike through the country’s infamous Red Waste, threading carefully to avoid stepping on a snake or a thorny devil. Pay your respects to Uluru, the sacred rock, and pass between the heads of Kata Tju?a.
A ‘bus stop’ in Lightning Ridge (Credit: The Bite-Sized Backpacker)
Most people living in the Outback have a pleasantly unique outlook on life, one you won’t find in the big cities. The locals are very much aware of the strenuous conditions they’ve chosen to live in, but they embrace their choice with open arms. Though – according to themselves – this makes every Aussie living in the Red Waste a little bit crazy, their supposed madness translates in endless creative expressional art forms, which you’ll find throughout the Outback’s tiny desert towns.
Evil Angels (a.k.a. A Cry in the Dark) Directed by: Fred Schepisi, 1988. A mother whose child was killed in a dingo attack in the Australian Outback fights to prove her innocence when she is accused of murder.
The Rescuers Down Under Directed by: Hendel Butoy & Mike Gabriel, 1990. Up until recently, very few of Disney’s animated films focused on subcultures. Yet in 1990, Disney kicked off the Disney Renaissance with the return of R.A.S. agents Bianca and Bernard, as they raced to Australia to save a little boy and a rare golden eagle from a murderous poacher.
The Hunter Directed by: Daniel Nettheim, 2011. Martin, a mercenary, is sent from Europe by a mysterious biotech company to the Tasmanian wilderness on a hunt for the last Tasmanian tiger.
The Year My Voice Broke Directed by: John Duigan¸1987. In rural 1960s Australia, a boy watches helplessly as his best friend falls in love with a small-time criminal, setting off a violent chain of events.
The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert Directed by: Stephan Elliott, 1994. Two drag performers and a transgender woman travel across the Australian desert to perform their unique style of cabaret.
Picnic at Hanging Rock Directed by: Peter Weir, 1975. During a rural summer picnic, a few students and a teacher from an Australian girls’ school vanish without a trace. Their absence frustrates and haunts the people left behind.
Opal Dream Directed by: Peter Cattaneo, 2006. A young girl’s relationship with her imaginary friends resonates throughout her town in the Australian Outback.
Crocodile Dundee Directed by: Peter Faiman, 1986. An American reporter goes to the Australian outback to meet an eccentric crocodile poacher and invites him to New York City.
Rabbit-Proof Fence Directed by: Phillip Noyce, 2002. In 1931, three half-white, half-Aboriginal girls escape after being plucked from their houses to be trained as domestic staff, and set off on a journey across the Outback.
Mad Max Directed by: George Miller, 1979. In a self-destructing world, a vengeful Australian policeman sets out to stop a violent motorcycle gang.
Gallipoli Directed by: Peter Weir, 1981. Two Australian sprinters face the brutal realities of war when they are sent to fight in the Gallipoli campaign in Turkey during World War I.
Chopper Directed by: Andrew Dominik, 2000. Chopper tells the intense story of Mark “Chopper” Read, a legendary Australian criminal who wrote his autobiography while serving a jail sentence in prison.
Pre-read: the best books from Australia
To get you even more excited about your trip, we’ve selected some of the best books about Australia as well. Pick up one of these gems to get into the spirit of the land Down Under!
Tracks: A Woman’s Solo Trek Across 1700 Miles of Australian Outback Author: Robyn Davidson, 1980. Robyn Davidson opens the memoir of her perilous journey across 1,700 miles of hostile Australian desert to the sea with only four camels and a dog for company with the following words: “I experienced that sinking feeling you get when you know you have conned yourself into doing something difficult and there’s no going back.”
Picnic at Hanging Rock Author: Joan Lindsay, 1967. On a cloudless summer day in the year nineteen hundred, everyone at Appleyard College for Young Ladies agreed it was just right for a picnic at Hanging Rock. After lunch, a group of three of the girls climbed into the blaze of the afternoon sun, till at last, they disappeared.
Rabbit-Proof Fence: The True Story of One of the Greatest Escapes of All Time Author: Doris Pilkington & Nugi Garimara, 1996. The remarkable true story of three young Aboriginal girls who cross the harsh Australian desert on foot to return to their home, after being gathered up by whites and taken to settlements to be assimilated.
The Thorn Birds Author: Colleen McCullough, 1977. The Thorn Birds is a robust, romantic saga of a singular family, telling the story of several generations of the Clearys. The saga begins in the early part of the 1900s, when Paddy Cleary moves his wife, Fiona, and their seven children to Drogheda, the vast Australian sheep station owned by his autocratic and childless older sister.
Down Under: Travels in a Sunburned Country Author: Bill Bryson, 2000. Australia has more things that can kill you in a very nasty way than anywhere else. Ignoring such dangers – and yet curiously obsessed by them – Bill Bryson journeys to Australia to explore the driest, flattest, hottest, most desiccated, infertile, and climatically aggressive of all the inhabited continents.
Travel Equipment
Browse our selection of travel equipment in the section below, or visit our store featuring all travel equipment, including backpacks, travel gadgets and guidebooks.
Find out everything you need to know about backpacking in New Zealand. What travel essentials should you add to your backpack? How can you stay on a budget in one of the world’s most prosperous nations? And where can you go if you want to get off the beaten track? Learn all about New Zealand and its unique culture in our complete first-hand experience New Zealand Travel Guide for backpacking ‘Aotearoa’.
There’s no place in the world quite like New Zealand. Situated south of Australia in the Southern Hemisphere, the country is also known as Aotearoa in Māori. Aotearoa means ‘the land of the long white cloud’. Watching the clouds linger around the mountains in North Island’s Tongariro National Park, it becomes obvious why. New Zealand’s landscape is littered with epic mountain ranges reaching for the clouds, and spectacular glaciers pierce out of the country’s lush temperate rainforests. The country is home to a variety of unique wild animals, and with over 15,000 kilometers of shoreline, the nation’s marine wildlife is equally impressive.
Aotearoa, ‘the land of the long white cloud’ (Credit: The Bite-Sized Backpacker)
New Zealand consists of two islands bordering the Tasman Sea and the Pacific Ocean: the bustling North Island, and the otherworldly South Island. Up on North Island you can explore urban Wellington and experience the international vibe of Auckland, or hike the Tongariro Alpine Crossing featured in The Lord of the Rings (2001-2003). Down on South Island, you’ll find winter sports haven Queenstown, as well as Kaikōura, a small coastal town dominated by a multitude of mesmerizing forms of wildlife.
The remote geographic position of New Zealand helped preserve the country’s unique and peaceful existence. Aotearoa’s untouched landscapes have been explored by a handful of local movie directors, such as Peter Jackson, who shot both King Kong (2005) and The Lord of the Rings-series on the islands. His fellow countryman Taika Waititi in turn filmed Hunt for the Wilderpeople (2016) in west Auckland’s Waitakere Ranges. Though the films painted a beautiful portrait of the country’s stunning scenery, New Zealand’s isolated nature luckily prevents it from ever getting too busy.
Quick Facts
Capital: The capital of New Zealand is Wellington.
Language: The official languages in New Zealand are English, Māori, and NZ Sign Language.
Currency: The currency in New Zealand is the New Zealand dollar (NZD), informally known as the “Kiwi dollar”.
Power Plugs: Plug Type I, with the electricity supply running at 230/240 volts.
Drinking water: In New Zealand, the tap water is fine to drink. The country’s mountains provide an excellent source of clear water.
Safety: While locals in Australia humorously claim “everything can kill you” Down Under, New Zealanders reinvented the statement by jokingly stating that “in New Zealand, nothing can kill you”. New Zealand is one of the safest countries in the world, offering backpackers an easy and comfortable traveling experience.
7 things to look forward to: hitchhiking, kiwis, Fergburgers, glaciers, fur seals, mountain ranges, Hobbits.
Video: On the Road: New Zealand
See what it’s like to travel New Zealand! (Credit: The Bite-Sized Backpacker)
Money saving tips: backpacking New Zealand on a budget
How much money do you need to travel around New Zealand? Backpacking the country will set you back quite a bit more than visiting other popular backpacker destinations such as Thailand or Argentina. New Zealand boasts a strong economy dependent on agriculture and international trade. Dairy, milk, wool, and wine are some of the nation’s most popular products. In comparison to most countries in the world, New Zealand is a rather expensive country to go backpacking. Unlike the ‘nearby’ Southeast Asian countries, it’s not just the flight ticket that will set you back financially. Transportation, accommodation, and activities all come at a relatively high price.
Despite the country’s strong financial positions, New Zealand offers plenty of opportunities to cut back on your spending while backpacking. Rather than traveling by public transportation, it is possible to rent a car or campervan, or even hitchhike. Additionally, every city you’ll visit on your trip is likely to have at least one or two relatively cheap hostels. The best way to save money while backpacking New Zealand, however, is by doing your own cooking. New Zealand is a very popular work-and-travel destination, and you’ll often run into backpackers who are semi-permanently living in the hostels you stay at. Because of this, most hostels feature a fully equipped kitchen, making it possible for visitors and temporary residents to cook their own meals.
Hitchhiking South Island (Credit: The Bite-Sized Backpacker)
Aside from travel and accommodation, your travel budget will largely be determined by the activities you intend to do. New Zealand, for example, is the birthplace of bungy jumping. A single jump will cost you a steep amount of money. If you intend to travel onwards after New Zealand to places where bungy jumping comes at a quarter of the price in a similarly beautiful location, what will you do? It’s these choices that will affect your budget in a big way.
While most blogs might pinpoint you on a budget of NZ$3,750,- per month per person (€2,100,- or US$2,500,-), you can easily make it on a monthly budget of less than NZ$1,500,- (€850,- or US$1,000,-) if you make all the right choices. More than in any other place, your expenditure here will depend on your need for comfort, your sense of adventure, and the choices you make along the road.
Quick Tips
A few quick tips for saving money while backpacking New Zealand:
Hitchhike.
Don’t fly; travel the roads.
Go CouchSurfing, or stay in hostels.
Cook your own meals.
Seek your own adventures: hike, raft, and enjoy the country’s mesmerizing landscapes, but avoid spending hundreds of dollars on activities you can do for peanuts on your next trip to Southeast Asia.
Accommodation
Sleeping in New Zealand
In terms of accommodation, New Zealand has something for everyone. As a backpacker though, you’ll most likely want to look into the nation’s many hostels. When choosing your accommodation in New Zealand there are two important things to look out for:
is there a kitchen available for cooking your own meals, and
how did previous visitors experience the WiFi connection – if there is one at all?
Kiwi WiFi is notoriously bad, and you’ll need to make sure you can at least use the hostel’s connection for travel essentials, such as making bookings and checking reservations. Of course, there’s a certain charm in not being able to spend your days on your smartphone. You’ll find that in an enchanting town like Kaikōura, it’s easy to forget about your daily browsing habits.
Here are some of our favorite hostels in New Zealand:
Lose yourself in the wilderness of New Zealand’s South Island (Credit: The Bite-Sized Backpacker)
Work and travel
Throughout New Zealand you’ll see that backpackers aren’t the only foreigners staying in the country’s many hostels. Many young adults between the ages of 18 and 30 come to New Zealand on a work and travel visa. The idea is simple, yet effective: they fly to New Zealand, where a few month’s work can earn them a rather sizeable amount of money. Living in hostels comes cheap, especially when making a deal with the hostel owner regarding a long term stay. In this way, it is possible to save enough money within half a year or so to travel the whole country, Australia, and perhaps a bit of Southeast Asia or Polynesia as well.
If you’d like to try out New Zealand’s work-and-travel program, and you opt for a long-term stay in a hostel, do keep in mind that the people you share your room with are on a vacation. They’ll arrive tired and will often have to get up early in the morning to catch their next ride. Don’t act like you own the room just because you’ve stayed there so long. Long term residents are considered the greatest nuisance in any of New Zealand’s hostels, so it’ll be up to you to improve their reputation!
Getting around in New Zealand
Renting a Campervan or Car
For backpackers, the most popular way to explore New Zealand is by hiring – or buying – a vehicle. During your time in ‘the land of the long white cloud’, you’ll come across many campervans driven by vacationing flashpackers. Hiring a campervan (or car) means opting for the freedom to explore the country at your own pace: you can go anywhere you like, and sleep anywhere you like.
You’ll be surprised how easy it is to purchase a second-hand car in New Zealand. Backpackers often travel North to South, or vice versa, which means that in “final” destinations such as Queenstown, Wellington, or Auckland, you won’t have much trouble purchasing a car from travelers who just finished their trip. Again, this is where it pays off to stay in hostels, as hostels are the perfect place to find backpackers willing to sell their car. Additionally, you can find a car through the Facebook groups Backpacker Cars New Zealand and Backpackers Cars Buy&Sell New Zealand.
New Zealand roads are spacious and allow for safe driving, though locals might not always agree with that statement. Though some Kiwis feel their roads are not up to standard, you’ll only find yourself chuckling at their complaints when comparing their roads to any other road you ever drove on. It is safe to say Kiwi roads are most often in pitch-perfect condition, despite being called “dodgy” by the locals every once in a while.
Rent a car or campervan to navigate New Zealand (Credit: The Bite-Sized Backpacker)
Hitchhiking
The true budget-friendly option for getting around New Zealand is hitchhiking. Down in South Island, your thumb will get you anywhere you like within no time. Unless you are truly unfortunate, you’ll be picked up within 30 minutes or less from most spots. You’ll find Kiwis to be quite friendly and considered. Especially on South Island, where there’s not much traffic, people will be generally inclined to give you a ride.
You’ll have a bit more trouble hitchhiking the North Island – especially around Wellington, where the “big city vibe” leads to many chauffeurs shrugging off your presence – but even there you’re likely to be picked up within the hour.
Keep in mind that legally, campervans and trucks aren’t allowed to pick you up, as there is a set limit to the number of people allowed inside their vehicles, and no one is allowed to sit in the back while driving.
Busses and Trains
When choosing comfort over freedom, New Zealand also offers the option to travel by bus. Services are good, and many of the busses are tailored especially for backpackers and other travelers. Kiwi busses will get you in and out of major towns and tourist hotspots, but it might prove difficult to visit the country’s off-track destinations.
There are many options for traveling around New Zealand. To get the best out of your holiday, we would definitely recommend against flying, though. The country isn’t all that big, and only ground travel will allow you to truly experience the nation’s breathtaking landscapes. Plus, you’ll keep your trip eco-friendly, and save some money at the same time!
When to visit New Zealand
New Zealand’s landscapes define its climate. Temperatures vary heavily around the country due to the many environmental differences. On average, the temperatures on the South Island are a bit below those on the North Island. So pack wisely, and be prepared for anything!
Summer is often the most popular time to visit New Zealand. In December, January, and February, the temperature rises, as does the number of tourists. This means hotels, touristic destinations and even roads can get a little busy.
The best time to travel to New Zealand, however, is during the spring, or during autumn. In September, October, and November, little lambs and tiny alpacas take a hold of the country’s boundless green countryside, flowers start blooming, and the snowy mountain caps slowly melt away. A few months later in March, April, and May, the leaves turn color and the crowds move out as the country prepares for the winter season.
Queenstown in the autumn (Credit: The Bite-Sized Backpacker)
Of course, if you are into winter sports, winter will be your season. The Kiwi winter starts in June and lasts throughout July and August. New Zealand’s impressive mountains offer great opportunities to engage in snow sports, such as skiing and snowboarding.
What to pack for New Zealand
The Essentials
I’m going to New Zealand, and I’m bringing…
A light-weight scarf.
One sweater or coat; or be prepared to layer-up when cold weather hits.
(Fingerless) gloves.
New Zealand features all the comforts of home, and you’ll lack nothing. Still, if you’ve just flown in from Indonesia, you might regret not buying some warm clothes before leaving the equator. Buying clothes is quite expensive in New Zealand. The day you arrive you’ll notice it to be a common mistake for backpackers from Southeast Asia not to bring warm clothes. In Queenstown, it’s especially easy to spot Asian travelers who failed to recognize the changeable Kiwi weather in advance: they all walk around wearing scarves, sweaters, and gloves bought at the local tourist shop. Consider it a warning: unless you want to spend your first days’ budget on buying warm clothes, come prepared.
Unlike traveling in ‘nearby’ Australia, you best pack your coat, your umbrella, and a lightweight scarf, even when you’re visiting New Zealand during summer. Prepare for any kind of weather, but don’t over-pack: make sure you have enough clothes to combine them into layers. Only bring your thick coat when you’re traveling in winter; during other seasons, combine a lighter coat with shirts or a sweater. Since most hostels accept long term residents, it’s often possible to do your laundry along the way.
New Zealand’s snow-capped mountain ranges (Credit: The Bite-Sized Backpacker)
Visa Information
To enter New Zealand you must have a valid passport and approved New Zealand visa. Most visitors can obtain a New Zealand Electronic Travel Authorisation-visa (NZeTA), which is valid for 90 days or less. Though this is known as a ‘visa on arrival’, you must apply for it before take-off. Make sure to have valid onward travel arrangements when entering the country, as you are required to prove you don’t intend to stay permanently.
Aside from a regular visa, working holiday visas are also relatively easily obtained – but only after you’ve secured a job. You can obtain one of these temporary working visas if you are aged between 18-30 years (18-35 for some countries), and have enough money in your bank account to afford an outbound ticket from New Zealand.
Enjoy the local culture
The Old and the New
Compared to most nations, New Zealand is a relatively young country. The islands of New Zealand were first settled by seafaring Polynesians approximately 700 years ago and were later discovered by the Dutch in 1642. The Polynesians’ descendants became known as the M?ori, who formed their own distinct culture. Colonization and large-scale European settlement led to many changes, eventually giving rise to the country we know today.
New Zealand’s culture is defined by a mix of the old and the new. The country’s architecture is predominantly European, but local Polynesian influences can be detected in most areas. A visit to the country wouldn’t be complete without immersing yourself in the rich culture of the indigenous M?ori tribes.
The Māori
Two of the best places to explore Māori culture are the Te Papa Tongarewa Museum of New Zealand, and the old Māori village of Te Whakarewarewatanga O Te Ope Taua A Wahiao, situated just south of Rotorua in the Taupo Volcanic Zone. It is possible to visit the Māori village – Whakarewarewa for short – using a local guide who will introduce you to the spiritual stories and traditions of the Māori. Traditionally, the Māori prepared their meals over the volcanic zone’s thermal vents. These natural make-shift ovens named ‘hangi’ can be found everywhere in Whakarewarewa. Your guide will also teach you the traditional Māori greeting, the hongi, which is performed by two people pressing their noses together and sometimes includes the touching of foreheads.
Performing the traditional Māori greeting, the hongi (Credit: The Bite-Sized Backpacker)
A Healthy Nation
Perhaps due to their isolated nature, New Zealanders are often welcoming to foreign travelers. They have a strong sense of social responsibility and healthy living, as is evident in several cities where smoking inside the city center is forbidden. If you manage to catch a local TV broadcast, you’ll notice there are many commercials targeting mental health problems such as depression and isolation, rather than ads trying to sell cars and other trinkets. Kiwi TV is a clear indicator that New Zealand has evolved into a considered and caring nation.
Things to eat and drink
New Zealand cuisine constitutes of a mix of Australian, European, and local specialties. Being an agricultural country featuring many sheep farms, you can expect mutton to be a large part of your diet during your stay. Additionally, the country’s extensive coastline bordering the Tasman Sea and the Pacific Ocean serves as an important source of food as well. Aside from mutton and seafood, New Zealand features a few other distinct food options you must try while visiting.
The Fergburger
The Queenstown Fergburger is one of the country’s most famous specialties. Prepared locally in the Fernburger hamburger restaurant in Queenstown, the burgers are prepared with lamb, cod, falafel, a swine-and-chicken mix, or venison.
The Fergburger, a Queenstown specialty (Credit: The Bite-Sized Backpacker)
New Zealand Wine
New Zealand’s unique soil and climatic conditions express themselves perfectly in the wine produced in the South Island. Otago is one of the country’s richest wine regions, which is mirrored by Hawke’s Bay on the North Island.
Hokey Pokey
Around 1980, the Kiwis invented a new combination of ice cream flavors: vanilla ice cream with small, solid lumps of honeycomb toffee. You can find this typical Kiwi ice cream in many dairy shops, or in local supermarkets.
Hangi
The Māori traditionally prepare their food using natural resources, such as thermal vents. It is a truly amazing experience to dine on a tender and delicious piece of chicken or mutton – or going vegetarian, potatoes – prepared over many hours in the Māori’s traditional thermal ovens. The volcanic gasses add an earthy, smoky flavor to the food.
A ‘hangi’, a tradtional Māori thermal oven (Credit: The Bite-Sized Backpacker)
Seafood
One of New Zealand’s local specialties on South Island is crayfish or rock lobster. Though seafood can be quite expensive, it’s definitely worth the money. Given the nation’s island status, the seafood is invariably fresh. From British-style fish and chips to green-lipped mussels, other shellfish, and scallops, New Zealand offers the best from the deep seas.
Kiwi Fruit
When in New Zealand, don’t ever call a kiwifruit a “kiwi”! Doing so is considered insulting, as the word “Kiwi” is used as the official nickname for New Zealanders. Though the distinction is only made in Australia and New Zealand, it’s an important one to remember. Also note that the kiwifruit is of Chinese origin, which wasn’t grown in New Zealand until the early 20th century. The name “kiwifruit” was conceived for export marketing in the early ’60s.
Whittakers
The New Zealand Whittaker family has been producing chocolate since 1896. Whittaker is the largest chocolate brand in New Zealand, and in recent years its popularity overseas has grown as well. Though Whittaker’s chocolate was sold using horse and van in the past, it can now be found everywhere in the country. A classic Whittaker’s slab is the Roasted Almond milk chocolate bar.
Meat Pies
Popular in both Australia and New Zealand, hand-sized meat pies are a treat in-between treats. The pies contain diced or minced meat and gravy, sometimes combined with onion, mushrooms, or cheese. The meat pies are often consumed as a takeaway food snack. Though the nutritional value of meat pies is a hot topic in New Zealand, it remains a popular treat.
Milford Sound, one of South Island’s most magnificent fjords (Credit: The Bite-Sized Backpacker)
Get off the Beaten Track
Most backpackers heading for New Zealand start off at Auckland on North Island, and travel downwards until they reach Queenstown or Te Anau on South Island. For what is likely to be a once-in-a-lifetime-experience, this might not be the best solution for you.
The urban feel of North Island might be attractive to some, but the Kiwi cities situated on North Island aren’t exactly unique. They are modern, urban hubs similar to big Australian and American cities. In the Kiwi cities, you’ll find all the same brands, foods, and stores you’re already familiar with, combined with a few local ones.
The real splendor and uniqueness of New Zealand lies in the South Island. Quiet and untouched, the South Island’s landscapes and wildlife will stay with you forever. There, you can hike through national parks such as Milford Sound and Doubtful Sound, visit the International Dark Sky Reserve on the south side of the Southern Alps, or travel northwards of the Alps along the Franz Josef glacier.
If you are looking for a unique adventure – one you can only have in New Zealand, and nowhere else – but you don’t have the time to visit both islands, then the South Island will be your destination of choice. Not exploring New Zealand’s national parks is similar to visiting Australia without seeing a single kangaroo.
Hunt for the Wilderpeople Directed by: Taika Waititi, 2016. A national manhunt is ordered for a rebellious kid and his foster uncle who go missing in the wild New Zealand bush.
Once Were Warriors Directed by: Lee Tamahori, 1994. A family descended from Maori warriors is bedeviled by a violent father and the societal problems of being treated as outcasts.
Whale Rider Directed by: Niki Caro, 2002. A contemporary story of love, rejection, and triumph as a young Maori girl fights to fulfill a destiny her grandfather refuses to recognize.
Black Sheep Directed by: Jonathan King, 2006. An experiment in genetic engineering turns harmless sheep into bloodthirsty killers that terrorize a sprawling New Zealand farm.
The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring Directed by: Peter Jackson, 2001. A meek Hobbit from the Shire and eight companions set out on a journey to destroy the powerful One Ring and save Middle-earth from the Dark Lord Sauron.
What We Do in the Shadows Directed by: Jemaine Clement & Taika Waititi, 2014. Viago, Deacon, and Vladislav are vampires who are finding that modern life in Wellington has them struggling with the mundane – like paying rent, keeping up with the chore wheel, trying to get into nightclubs, and overcoming flatmate conflicts.
The Piano Directed by: Jane Campion, 1993. In the mid-19th century, a mute woman is sent to New Zealand along with her young daughter and prized piano for an arranged marriage to a wealthy landowner, but is soon lusted after by a local worker on the plantation.
Boy Directed by: Taika Waititi, 2010. Set on the east coast of New Zealand in 1984, Boy, an 11-year-old child and devout Michael Jackson fan, gets a chance to know his absentee criminal father, who has returned to find a bag of money he buried years ago.
Pre-read: the best books from New Zealand
To get you even more excited about your trip, we’ve selected some of the best books about New Zealand as well. Pick up one of these gems to get into the spirit of the Land of the Long White Cloud!
A Land of Two Halves Author: Joe Bennett, 2004. After 10 years in New Zealand, Joe Bennett asked himself what on earth he was doing there. Hitching around both the intriguingly named North and South Islands, with an eye for oddity and a taste for conversation, Bennett began to remind himself of the reasons New Zealand is quietly seducing the rest of the world.
The Luminaries Author: Eleanor Catton, 2013. In 1866, young Walter Moody comes to South Island to make his fortune upon the New Zealand goldfields. Instead, he stumbles into a tense meeting between twelve local men and is drawn into a complex mystery involving a series of unsolved crimes.
Plumb Author: Maurice Gee, 1978. Long regarded as one of the finest novels ever written by a New Zealander, Maurice Gee’s Plumb introduces the intolerant, irascible clergyman George Plumb: half saint, half monster, superhuman in his spiritual strength and destructive in his utter self-absorption.
Once Were Warriors Author: Alan Duff, 1990. Alan Duff’s harrowing vision of his country’s indigenous people tells the story of Beth Heke, a Maori woman struggling to keep her family from falling apart, despite the squalor and violence of the housing projects in which they live. Conveying both the rich textures of Maori tradition and the wounds left by its absence, Once Were Warriors is a masterpiece of unblinking realism, irresistible energy, and great sorrow.
Come on Shore and We Will Kill and Eat You All: A New Zealand Story Author: Christina Thompson, 2008. Thompson’s book details the story of the cultural collision between Westerners and the Maoris of New Zealand. The story is told partly as a history of the complex and bloody period of contact between Europeans and the Maoris in the late eighteenth and early nineteenth centuries, and partly as the story of Thompson’s marriage to a Maori man.
Travel Equipment
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