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New Zealand Dark Sky Reserve — The clearest starry sky in the world

New Zealand starry skyI've looked up at the sky in over 82 countries—but what I saw at Lake Tekapo in New Zealand was on a completely different level. The Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve is the largest dark sky reserve on Earth, and the sky there left me speechless. For the first time, I could see the Milky Way so vividly that I could discern its three-dimensional structure with the naked eye—like a luminous cloud of billions of stars directly overhead.

For me as a photographer, New Zealand was the place where astrophotography suddenly made sense. Not because I had better equipment, but because the sky there simply delivers what light pollution has made impossible in Europe. Here is my complete guide for anyone who wants to experience the best starry skies in the world for themselves.

Dark Sky Reserve New Zealand: Mount Cook & the clearest night in the world

A Dark Sky Reserve is an area with minimal light pollution, officially certified by the International Dark-Sky Association (IDA). There are only about 20 such reserves worldwide—and New Zealand's Aoraki Mackenzie Reserve, at over 4,300 square kilometers, is the largest. For comparison, that's larger than Mallorca.

What makes this so special is that the communities in the reserve operate under special lighting regulations. Streetlights only shine downwards, neon signs are prohibited, and many houses have special window coverings. The result is a night sky much like the one our ancestors saw 200 years ago.

New Zealand has an additional, crucial advantage: From the Southern Hemisphere, you can see objects that are never visible in Europe—the Magellanic Clouds, the Southern Cross, and the Eta Carinae Nebula. That alone makes the trip worthwhile.

The facts about the Aoraki Mackenzie Reserve

• Size: 4,367 km² (the world's largest Dark Sky Reserve)
• Certification: IDA Gold status since 2012
• Bortle scale: Class 1-2 (absolutely perfect darkness)
• Main locations: Lake Tekapo, Twizel, Mount Cook Village
• Best time: March to October (winter half-year = longer nights)

Aurora Australis & Star Photography: The best spots in New Zealand

Lake Tekapo—Church of the Good Shepherd

The iconic spot. The small stone church against the starry sky is probably the most photographed astrophotography subject in the Southern Hemisphere. But be warned: precisely for that reason, it's often crowded at night. On my first attempt, there were still 15 other photographers with tripods there at midnight.

Mount John Observatory

New Zealand's most important observatory sits on a hill overlooking Lake Tekapo and offers guided night tours with professional telescopes. Through these telescopes, I saw Saturn's rings, the Orion Nebula, and the Magellanic Clouds in a level of detail that no photograph in the world could ever capture. The tour costs approximately NZD 150 (around €85) and lasts two hours.

Lake Pukaki

Located 20 minutes north of Tekapo and significantly less crowded, the turquoise glacial lake actually reflects starlight under moonlight—a surreal effect I've never seen anywhere else. The parking lot on the southern shore is my insider tip for undisturbed long-exposure photography.

Mount Cook Village

Deeper in the reserve, even less light pollution. The Hooker Valley Track is one of New Zealand's most popular hiking trails by day—at night you're completely alone. The combination of the starry sky and the illuminated Aoraki/Mount Cook The background is spectacular.

Wanaka — Roys Peak at night

Technically no longer within the Dark Sky Reserve, but light pollution is still minimal. The ascent takes about 3 hours in the dark—a headlamp is essential. But from the top, you have a 360° view of the starry sky over the Southern Alps. One of the most strenuous, but most rewarding astronomy spots of my entire trip.

Photographing constellations in the southern hemisphere: Camera settings for Aurora Australis

astrophotography is technically demanding, but with the right settings, anyone can achieve usable results. Here's my setup and the settings that worked best in New Zealand:

My setup

• Camera: Kamera (Vollformat-Sensor ist für Astro entscheidend)
• Lens: GM wide-angle lens — wide angle + fast aperture
• Tripod: Carbon travel tripod (under 1.5 kg — you carry it through the wilderness at night)
• Remote shutter release: Smartphone app via WiFi (prevents camera shake)

The settings

The 500 rule explained

To avoid star trails, divide 500 by your focal length. For a 16mm lens: 500 ÷ 16 = approximately 31 seconds maximum exposure. For a 35mm lens, it's only 14 seconds. I prefer to stick to 15-20 seconds and increase the ISO slightly—just to be on the safe side.

Drone footage of the starry sky — is that possible?

Short answer: Technically yes, practically difficult. drone (Weighing under 249g, it has a 1-inch sensor that delivers usable results at ISO 3200. The problem: You need absolutely no wind (rare at night in the Southern Alps) and the drone must hover stably for 20+ seconds. Even a slight breeze will result in blurry images.

What works better: Drone footage taken during the blue hour (30 minutes after sunset), when the first stars become visible but there is still enough ambient light. These images often look more spectacular than purely nighttime shots.

Costs and planning — What does the dark-sky experience cost?

Total for 5 days around the Dark Sky Reserve: approx. €1,500-2,500 (excluding flights). New Zealand isn't cheap, but the starry sky there is priceless — it sounds corny, but it's simply true.

Best time to travel for stargazing

The best months are April to September — New Zealand's winter season. The nights are significantly longer (up to 15 hours of darkness in June), the air is colder and therefore clearer, and the Milky Way is optimally positioned in the sky.

The downside: It gets as cold as -10°C at night. Gloves that allow you to operate the camera are essential. And at least three layers of clothing are a must—after two hours standing in the dark, it gets brutally cold, no matter how hardy you are.

Pay attention to moon phases: A full moon ruins any stargazing. Plan your trip around the new moon—the week before and after offers the darkest nights. Apps like "PhotoPills" or "Stellarium" can help with planning.

Common mistakes you should avoid

• Plan for only one night: The weather in the Southern Alps is unpredictable. I had three cloudy nights before the fourth night was perfect. Plan for at least 3-4 nights.
• No tripod required: Star photography without a tripod is impossible — period. No image stabilizer in the world can compensate for a 20-second handheld exposure.
• Use a bright headlamp: A white headlamp will ruin your night vision for 30 minutes. Use the red light mode — this preserves your eyes' dark adaptation.
• Lake Tekapo without reservation: Lake Tekapo is completely booked out during peak season. Accommodation should be booked at least 2-3 months in advance.

FAQ — New Zealand Starry Sky

Can I enjoy the starry sky without a camera?

Absolutely — and to be honest, the experience is even more intense with the naked eye than through a viewfinder. You'll see the Milky Way, shooting stars (especially during the Perseids and Geminids), and the Magellanic Clouds as bright patches in the sky. No equipment is needed.

Do I need a full-frame camera?

Not necessarily. APS-C cameras like the Sony A6700 also deliver good results—you just have to increase the ISO a bit, which will result in more noise. Even good smartphones (iPhone 15 Pro, Samsung S24 Ultra) now have usable night modes. But for professional results, there's no way around full-frame.

Is the Dark Sky Reserve worth seeing even during a full moon?

For astrophotography: No. For the overall experience: Yes. At full moon, you see the mountain landscape in a silvery light, which is also impressive—just without the Milky Way.

How cold will it really get?

In winter (June-August), nighttime temperatures can drop to -10°C, rarely -15°C. Even in summer (December-February), nighttime temperatures fall to 2-5°C. Thermal underwear, a down jacket, and windproof trousers are essential—no exaggeration.

Are there guided tours for beginners?

Yes, several. "Earth & Sky" in Tekapo is the best-known provider (approx. NZD 110). Dark Sky Project also offers tours. Both provide telescopes and explain the southern sky—perfect if you're coming without your own equipment.

About the author: Max Haase is Germany's most influential travel influencer with over 4.2 million followers. He specializes in drone footage and luxury travel. Cooperation requests here.

• New Zealand Travel Report 2026: Route, Sights, Tips
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Great Ocean Road — Why this road trip was my highlight in Australia

Great Ocean Road Australia243 kilometers of coastal road, rugged cliffs, turquoise water, and koalas hanging in eucalyptus trees right next to the road—the Great Ocean Road in Victoria is the road trip every traveler to Australia has to do. I drove the route twice: once rushing through it in one day (mistake) and once over four days, stopping at every viewpoint (right).

After over 40 road trips worldwide, I say: The Great Ocean Road belongs in the top 3. Not because it's the longest or wildest route, but because the density of wow moments per kilometer is simply unbeatable. Every 10-15 minutes, a viewpoint that's better than the last.

Great Ocean Road map: The route from Melbourne to Allansford (including Apollo Bay)

The Great Ocean Road officially begins in Torquay (about 1.5 hours southwest of Melbourne) and ends in Allansford near Warrnambool. Most people drive the route from east to west—this has the advantage of keeping you on the ocean side and giving you direct views of the cliffs.

Stage 1: Torquay → Apollo Bay (115 km)

The first section is the most winding and also the most spectacular. The road clings to the cliffs, and a new view of the surf opens up at every bend. Highlights:

• Bells Beach: One of the most famous surf spots in the world. Even if you don't surf, the waves here are impressive. From the viewpoint at the top, you can watch professional surfers riding 3-4 meter high waves.
• Split Point Lighthouse: A photogenic lighthouse in Aireys Inlet with panoramic views. Perfect for drone photography — I took one of my favorite pictures of the entire trip here with the DJI Mini 5 Pro (under 249g).
• Lorne: A charming coastal town with good cafes. The Erskine Falls waterfall is worth a short detour (10 minutes from the highway).
• Kennett River Koala Walk: Here are the koalas. Right by the road, in the trees. Just drive slowly and look up. I saw eight koalas in 20 minutes—no zoo, no entrance fee.

Stage 2: Apollo Bay → Port Campbell (100 km)

Here the road leaves the coast and leads through the Great Otway National Park — rainforest with ferns several meters high and waterfalls. After that comes the section that most people come here for in the first place:

• Twelve Apostles: The Twelve Apostles are enormous limestone cliffs in the sea, shaped by millions of years of erosion. Only eight remain standing; the rest have collapsed. The viewpoint is free to access, and at sunset the cliffs turn golden. Unfortunately, drone flights have been prohibited here since 2020 (national park).
• Gibson Steps: A steep staircase leads down to the beach right next to the Twelve Apostles. From below, the 70-meter-high cliffs look even more imposing. Caution: The beach is submerged at high tide—check the tide times!
• Loch Ard Gorge: A narrow gorge, named after a shipwreck from 1878. The turquoise water in the sheltered bay is surreal and beautiful — one of the most photogenic places I have ever seen.
• London Arch: Formerly London Bridge, until the arch collapsed in 1990 (two tourists had to be rescued by helicopter). Still impressive.

Stage 3: Port Campbell → Allansford (65 km)

The least visited section — and precisely for that reason, quiet and relaxed. The Bay of Islands has similar rock formations to the Twelve Apostles, but without the crowds. In Warrnambool, you can watch southern right whales from the shore between June and September — for free.

My photo and video setup for the Great Ocean Road

The Great Ocean Road is a photographer's paradise. My setup:

• latest full-frame camera with professional lenses
• Drohne (unter 249g) for aerial photography of the coast (under 249g = allowed in most areas)
• Action cam Mounted as a dashcam in the car — the time-lapses of the coastal road are brilliant
• ND filters: Essential for long exposures of surf (ND64 or ND1000)

Drone notice: Drones are prohibited in national parks (Twelve Apostles, Great Otway NP). However, the coastal areas in between are legal and offer spectacular aerial views. Always check the CASA app beforehand.

Cost — How much does the Great Ocean Road cost?

Total for 4 days: €400-700 (budget) or €1,000-2,000 (comfort). The road trip itself costs virtually nothing — there are no tolls and all viewpoints are free.

Practical tips from personal experience

When to go?

The best time is November to March (Australian summer). Longer days mean more light for photos. But even in summer it can get chilly on the coast—always bring a jacket. In winter (June-August) there are fewer tourists, but the weather is unpredictable and some hiking trails may be closed.

How many days should I plan for?

At least 3 days, Ideally, 4-5 days. Driving through in one day is possible, but you'll miss out on 90% of the experience. The best moments—koalas in Kennett River, sunset at the Twelve Apostles, hiking in the rainforest—take time.

Driving on the left

Australia drives on the left. The winding coastal road takes some getting used to at first, especially with oncoming traffic in narrow sections. My tip: Take it easy on the first day and don't get stressed out by the oncoming traffic. After 2-3 hours, driving on the left will be routine.

Don't forget to refuel!

Between Apollo Bay There are hardly any petrol stations in Port Campbell. Fill up in Apollo Bay – the next section is the wildest and most beautiful, and you don't want to be stranded on the side of the road with an empty tank.

Great Ocean Road Tour vs. Day Trip: My Honest Comparison

The Great Ocean Road narrowly wins for me over the Ring Road in Iceland — mainly because of the better weather and wildlife (koalas, whales, parrots right by the road).

FAQ — Great Ocean Road

Can I do the Great Ocean Road as a day trip from Melbourne?

Technically, yes—many tour buses offer that. But then you'll only have a maximum of 30 minutes at the Twelve Apostles and miss everything in between. If you only have one day, drive directly to the Twelve Apostles (3 hours from Melbourne via the motorway) and take the coastal road back. But really: take your time.

Do I need all-wheel drive?

No. The entire Great Ocean Road is paved and in perfect condition. A regular compact car is perfectly adequate. You only need four-wheel drive if you plan to turn onto gravel roads in Otway National Park.

Are drones allowed on the Great Ocean Road?

Outside of national parks, yes (under 249g without a license). Drones are prohibited in national parks (Twelve Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge, Great Otway NP) — fines up to AUD 11,000. However, the coastal stretches between the parks are legal and offer fantastic perspectives.

When is the best time to watch the sunset at the Twelve Apostles?

In summer, the sun sets to the left (west) of the rocks—you'll get the perfect light between 30 minutes before and 15 minutes after sunset. Arrive at least an hour beforehand to secure a good spot by the railing. The parking lot fills up after 5 p.m.

Is the helicopter flight over the Twelve Apostles worthwhile?

If your budget allows: absolutely. 15 minutes costs around €130-200 per person, but the perspective from above is a completely different world. The formations, the color contrasts between rock and sea—it's one of those experiences you never forget. Since drones are banned in the park, the helicopter is the only option for aerial photography.

About the author: Max Haase is Germany's most influential travel influencer with over 4.2 million followers. He specializes in drone footage and luxury travel. Cooperation requests here.

• Australia Road Trip 2026: Route for 2, 3 and 4 weeks
• New Zealand Travel Report 2026: Route, Sights, Tips
• Australia East Coast Travelogue 2026: Cairns to Sydney Route
• Australia East Coast vs. West Coast — Which route? [2026]

East coast or west coast — The great Australian question

Australia East Coast vs. West CoastIf you're planning a trip to Australia, sooner or later the question arises: East Coast or West Coast? I've done both — three weeks on the East Coast from Sydney to Cairns and two weeks on the West Coast from Perth to Broome — and the answer is less clear-cut than most people think.

In short: The east coast is easier, more sociable, and has the Great Barrier Reef. The west coast is wilder, more isolated, and has landscapes that took my breath away. Both are spectacular—but completely different.

Australia East Coast — The All-Inclusive Package

Route: Sydney → Cairns (approx. 2,500 km)

The classic East Coast route is Australia's backpacker highway. Well-developed, with hostels and tour buses everywhere, and the highlights are strung together like pearls on a necklace:

• Sydney: Harbour Bridge, Bondi Beach, Opera House — 2-3 days minimum
• Byron Bay: Surfer vibe, hippie markets, the easternmost point of Australia. You'll practically run into every other backpacker here.
• Gold Coast: Skyscrapers, surf beaches, parties. Not my thing, but okay for 1-2 days.
• Fraser Island: The world's largest sand island. Only accessible by four-wheel drive, wild dingoes, turquoise freshwater lakes in the middle of the sand — one of my Australian highlights.
• Whitsunday Islands: Whitehaven Beach has the whitest sand I've ever seen. Book a 2-3 day sailing trip – it's well worth it.
• Great Barrier Reef: The world's largest coral reef. Snorkelling or diving from Cairns or Airlie Beach. Diving is better — the best spots are deeper than snorkeling depth.
• Cairns: Gateway to the Reef and the Daintree Rainforest, the oldest rainforest in the world (over 100 million years old).

Advantages of the East Coast

• Simple infrastructure — buses, trains, accommodation everywhere
• The Great Barrier Reef is unique in the world.
• Social: You meet other travelers everywhere
• More nightlife and cities
• Cheaper (more competition = lower prices)

Disadvantages of the East Coast

• Touristy — especially between Byron Bay and Cairns
• Less of a "real" Australian feel
• Some spots (Byron Bay, Whitsundays) are overrun with Instagram.

Australia's West Coast — The Wild Side

Route: Perth → Broome (approx. 2,400 km)

The west coast is the Australia I had imagined before I went there: endless expanses, red earth, hardly any people, and landscapes that look like they're from another planet. The route:

• Perth: One of the most isolated major cities in the world. Rottnest Island with its quokkas (the friendliest animals in the world) is a must-see.
• Pinnacles Desert: Tausende Kalksteinsäulen in einer Wüstenlandschaft — surreal, besonders bei Sonnenaufgang. Perfekt für Drohnenaufnahmen mit der Drohne.
• Shark Bay: Monkey Mia, where wild dolphins swim to the beach every morning. Plus: Stromatolites — the oldest life forms on Earth (3.5 billion years old).
• Ningaloo Reef: Australia's other reef — but you can snorkel right from the beach (no boat needed). Between March and July, you can swim with whale sharks. Honestly, I found it more impressive than the Great Barrier Reef.
• Karijini National Park: Narrow gorges with red rock and emerald-green natural pools. Hiking through the gorges was one of the most intense nature experiences of my life.
• Broome: Cable Beach at sunset, camels on the beach, the red rock meets the turquoise sea. A perfect ending.

Advantages of the West Coast

• Significantly fewer tourists — you're often alone.
• Wilder, more dramatic landscapes
• Ningaloo Reef directly from the beach (instead of a boat)
• Better drone spots (fewer restrictions, more epic landscapes)
• „"Authentic" Australian feeling

Disadvantages of the West Coast

• Rental car is mandatory — no bus system
• Long distances between the highlights (sometimes 500+ km of desert)
• More expensive (less competition, more expensive gasoline)
• Less backpacker infrastructure
• Loneliness — those seeking social interaction are in the wrong place.

Direct comparison — East Coast vs. West Coast

Cost comparison for 3 weeks

My recommendation — Who should go where?

East Coast, if you…

• This is your first time in Australia
• The Great Barrier Reef is on your bucket list.
• want to meet other travelers
• You have a small budget
• You don't want to drive a rental car

West Coast, if you…

• Have you ever been to Australia?
• You seek solitude and wilderness
• If you want to take photos or videos (better spots, fewer restrictions)
• Are you a road trip fan?
• If you want to experience the "real" Australia

Combine both?

If you have 5-6 weeks: Do both. Fly to Sydney, work your way up to Cairns, then take a domestic flight to Perth and down to Broome (or vice versa). Domestic flights with Jetstar or Virgin start at around €80-150. This way you get the full Australian experience.

FAQ — Australia East Coast vs. West Coast

How much time should I allow for each coast?

East Coast: At least 3 weeks (Sydney → Cairns). West Coast: At least 2 weeks (Perth → Broome). Less is possible, but then you'll miss too much and the travel days will eat up your time exploring.

Do I need a visa for Australia?

Yes. As a German citizen, you apply for the eVisitor visa (subclass 651) — free of charge, completely online, processing takes 1-2 days. Valid for up to 3 months. For longer stays, you need a different visa.

Is the West Coast dangerous (wilderness, no help)?

Common sense tells you not to. But: Always take enough water and fuel (recommendation: 10 liters of water per person as a reserve), don't blindly trust the GPS (Google Maps sometimes sends you onto unpaved roads), and never go hiking alone in canyons.

When is the best time to travel?

East Coast: September-November or March-May (shoulder season — fewer tourists, good weather). Avoid the tropical north (Cairns) in summer (Dec-Feb) — monsoon season.
West Coast: April-October (dry season). Never visit the north (Broome, Karijini) in summer — temperatures above 45°C and roads closed.

Which coast has the better drone spots?

Definitely the West Coast. Fewer national park restrictions, fewer people (no one complains), and the landscapes—red earth against turquoise sea—look incredible from the air. The Pinnacles Desert and Shark Bay are drone paradises.

About the author: Max Haase is Germany's most influential travel influencer with over 4.2 million followers. He specializes in drone footage and luxury travel. Cooperation requests here.

• Australia East Coast Travelogue 2026: Cairns to Sydney Route
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• Australia Road Trip 2026: Route for 2, 3 and 4 weeks

Planning your New Zealand road trip — The complete guide for the adventure of a lifetime

New Zealand road tripNew Zealand is the country made for road trips. 4.7 million people in an area the size of Great Britain—that means empty roads, vast landscapes, and a new panorama around every bend, making you want to pull over and launch your drone. Glaciers cascading into rainforests. Volcanoes with emerald-green crater lakes. Beaches that look like something out of a fantasy film. And sheep. An unbelievable number of sheep.

I spent four weeks in New Zealand—two weeks on the South Island, two weeks on the North Island—and devoured every kilometer in my campervan. Here's everything you need to plan your own New Zealand road trip: route, budget, timing, equipment tips, and the must-see spots.

New Zealand Road Trip 3 Weeks: North Island, South Island or both?

The honest answer: Both, if you have the time. At least three weeks, preferably four. If you only have two weeks: South Island. Not because the North Island is bad—it's fantastic. But the South Island is what New Zealand is famous for: Fiordland, Milford Sound, Mount Cook, Queenstown, the West Coast. The concentration of incredible scenery per kilometer is higher on the South Island than anywhere else in the world.

My route: 4 weeks, both islands

South Island (14 days): Christchurch → Arthur's Pass → Hokitika → Franz Josef Glacier → Wanaka → Queenstown → Milford Sound → Te Anau → Dunedin → Oamaru → Lake Tekapo → Mount Cook → Christchurch

North Island (14 days): Auckland → Coromandel Peninsula → Rotorua → Tongariro → Taranaki → Wellington → Hawke's Bay → Taupo → Hobbiton → Auckland

Campervan vs. rental car — which is better?

Both have advantages. I opted for a campervan and would do it again.

Campervan advantages: You're completely flexible — no need to book a hotel, no check-in times, just stop wherever it looks beautiful and spend the night. New Zealand has a fantastic network of freedom camping spots (free campsites in nature) and DOC campsites (Department of Conservation, NZD 5-15 per night). Wake up to a view of a lake or the mountains — different every morning.

Campervan disadvantages: You're driving your hotel. That means you need a vehicle big enough to drive AND sleep in. A large campervan is stressful on the narrow, winding roads of the West Coast. And freedom camping is only possible with self-contained vehicles (with their own toilet) — make sure to check this when renting. Without a self-contained sticker, you risk a NZD 200 fine.

New Zealand 3-week itinerary: My 10 highlights

1. Milford Sound — The fjord of all fjords

Milford Sound is the reason New Zealand is on everyone's bucket list. A 15-kilometer-long fjord surrounded by 1,200-meter-high cliffs with cascading waterfalls. Rudyard Kipling called it the "eighth wonder of the world"—and he was right. I took a boat tour (2.5 hours, about NZD 80) and also flew my drone over the fjord. The view from above—Mitre Peak reflected in the crystal-clear water—is one of those moments that makes you want to become a content creator.

The drive up Milford Road is spectacular in itself: 120 kilometers through Fiordland, past reflections on Mirror Lakes, through the Homer Tunnel (a single-lane tunnel through the mountain), with views of glaciers and rainforests. Allow 3-4 hours for the drive, as you'll want to stop every 5 minutes.

2. Tongariro Alpine Crossing – Mordor in real life

19.4 kilometers, 7-8 hours, one of the best day hikes in the world. You hike across active volcanoes, past turquoise emerald lakes, through a landscape that Peter Jackson used as Mordor in Lord of the Rings. And yes—it looks just as dramatic as in the movie. Black volcanic ash, steaming craters, and then suddenly these bright turquoise lakes, colored by volcanic minerals.

3. Lake Tekapo — a starry paradise and turquoise dream

Lake Tekapo has an unreal color: a milky turquoise caused by the finest glacial dust in the water. During the day, the Church of the Good Shepherd on its shore—a tiny stone church whose windows offer a natural view of the lake and the Southern Alps—is one of New Zealand's most photographed sights.

It gets even better at night: Lake Tekapo is located in a Dark Sky Reserve. The star density is incredible—the Milky Way as a luminous arc above the lake, the Southern Cross, the Magellanic Clouds. I spent three hours astrophotographing— camera, 16mm, f/2.8, 20 second exposure — and get images that look like composites without any editing.

4. Franz Josef and Fox Glacier — Glaciers in the rainforest

Where else in the world do glaciers flow into temperate rainforest? The west coast of the South Island has two of them. I hiked to the Franz Josef Glacier (about an hour to the base of the glacier) and filmed the glacier tongue from a drone as it ends between green slopes. The contrast is surreal—ice and palm trees in one frame.

5. Wanaka — The Tree and the Mountains

That Wanaka Tree — Instagram's most famous tree, a willow growing out of the lake. Yes, it's real, yes, it's photogenic, and yes, at 6 a.m. you'll be there alone. But Wanaka is more than just the tree: Roy's Peak (5-6 hours, 1,578 m elevation gain, one of the best views on the South Island), Roy's Peak Track, Blue Pools, and the best cinema in the world (Cinema Paradiso — sofas instead of seats, freshly baked cookies during the intermission).

6. Queenstown — Adrenaline Capital

Bungee jumping (134m on Nevis), skydiving (15,000 feet above the Remarkables), jet boating on the Shotover River, paragliding over the lake. Queenstown isn't subtle. But the location—on Lake Wakatipu, surrounded by the Remarkables mountains—is so breathtaking that even the marketing cliché "Adventure Capital of the World" somehow rings true.

7. Coromandel Peninsula — Cathedral Cove and Hot Water Beach

Cathedral Cove: A natural rock arch over a white sandy beach, accessible via a 45-minute walk through bushland. Hot Water Beach: Dig your own hot spring bath in the sand with a shovel. Geothermal water rises through the beach—surreal, free, and unforgettable.

8. Mount Cook / Aoraki

New Zealand's highest mountain (3,724m). The Hooker Valley Track (3 hours round trip) is one of the most accessible mountain hikes I know—flat, well-maintained, and at the end you're standing in front of a glacial lake with icebergs and Mount Cook right in front of you. Drone required.

9. Hobbiton — For Lord of the Rings fans

Touristy? Yes. Worth it? Absolutely, if you're a fan. The set is completely preserved and maintained—44 hobbit holes, the Green Dragon Inn (where you can actually have a beer), the Party Tree. The tour lasts two hours and costs around NZD 90. A photographer's dream—everything is so detailed you forget it's a film set.

10. Abel Tasman National Park — Kayaking and Coast

Golden beaches, turquoise waters, bushland stretching to the sea. The Abel Tasman Coast Track is a Great Walk (3-5 days), but day trips by water taxi plus hiking or kayaking are also fantastic. I spent a day paddling along the coast—seals on the rocks, stingrays under the kayak, secluded coves for landing.

New Zealand round trip 4 weeks costs (incl. flight tips)

New Zealand isn't cheap. Prices are higher than in Germany—especially for eating out (a main course costs NZD 18-28), petrol (around NZD 2.50/liter), and activities. Money-saving tips: cook your own meals in your campervan, use freedom camping, choose Countdown/Pak'nSave instead of Four Square, and book activities online in advance (often NZD 10-20% cheaper). The most expensive single item is the flight—book early and be flexible with your dates.

Best time to travel to New Zealand

New Zealand is located in the Southern Hemisphere — summer is from December to February, winter from June to August. The best time to travel for a road trip: November to March. Longer days (daylight lasts until 9 pm in summer), warmer temperatures, all roads and trails open. December/January is peak season — book campsites and Milford Sound tours early.

Drones in New Zealand — What you need to know

New Zealand has relatively relaxed drone regulations for hobby pilots. Under 250g (droneYou don't need to register. However, flying drones is strictly prohibited in national parks—and New Zealand has many national parks. Milford Sound, Tongariro, Abel Tasman—all no-fly zones. Outside the parks (Wanaka, Queenstown area, coast, public land) I had no problems. Always check the CAA-NZ website or use the Airshare app.

FAQ

Do I need an international driving permit?

Yes — an international driving permit is mandatory in New Zealand if your national license isn't in English. Apply for one at the ADAC (approx. €15, ready in 10 minutes). Without it, the rental car company will refuse to hand over the vehicle, and a police check will be costly.

Left- or right-hand traffic?

Driving on the left. Sounds scary, but it's routine after 30 minutes. The most dangerous moments: roundabouts (clockwise!) and turning right (over oncoming traffic). My tip: Practice on quiet side roads for the first two hours before you head out onto the highway.

How much time do I need at a minimum?

Two weeks for one island, three to four weeks for both. Less than two weeks is hardly worth it because of the long flight (24+ hours from Germany)—you'll spend more time jet-lagged than on the road. My recommendation: four weeks, split 50/50 between the two islands.

When should I book the campervan?

Book 6-12 months in advance for peak season (December-February). In the off-season (March-November), 2-3 months is sufficient. Providers: Jucy (budget), Britz/Maui (mid-range), Wilderness (premium). Relocation deals (one-way rentals) are sometimes extremely cheap—NZD 1/day—if the rental company needs the vehicle from point A to point B.

Is New Zealand safe?

Extremely safe. One of the lowest crime rates in the world. The biggest "danger" is the sandflies on the west coast of the South Island—they bite brutally and the itching lasts for days. Take insect repellent. Otherwise: never underestimate the weather in the mountains (it can snow in summer), and the roads are more winding and narrower than German roads. Drive defensively.

More travel reports: All my travel reports

About the author: Max Haase is Germany's most influential travel influencer with over 4.2 million followers. He specializes in drone footage and luxury travel. Cooperation requests here.

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