NEW ZEALAND - TRAVEL GUIDES

"As the planet heats up environmentally and politically, it’s good to know that New Zealand exists. This uncrowded, green, peaceful and accepting country is the ultimate escape."
- Lonely Planet's website

TRAVELING TO NEW ZEALAND

One of the best places in the world, hands down, for natural beauty is New Zealand.  Most come simply to hike and to soak up the beauty of the country’s mountains, forests and beaches.  There is a lot to see, and a guidebook will definitely help travelers find the experience that is best for them.  Here is a list of our top recommendations on travel books for New Zealand.

A5 RECOMMENDATIONS

National Geographic Traveler: New Zealand

We highly recommend the National Geographic travel guide for New Zealand.  This may not be the book you want to take on your trip, but the photography and well-written content makes the book a good pre-trip planning tool and a nice souvenir.  The book is a good source for information on where to go and what you can expect, with a number of very helpful maps for travelers.

Lonely Planet: New Zealand

Lonely Planet is one of the better guidebooks for those planning a visit to the lovely country of New Zealand.  The highlights of New Zealand are more oriented toward natural beauty, with amazing mountains, wildlife and beaches.  Lonely Planet provides broad coverage of the country, with local tips on what best to see and do.  We particularly like their recommended itineraries and practical tips on how to get around.  

New Zealand's Best Trips

Many travelers to New Zealand go on driving trips around the country.  Lonely Planet publishes a specific travel guidebook series with recommendations on 26 road trip itineraries, including recommendations on how to enjoy some of the best scenery, wineries, and whale watching.  There is nice photography, full-color route maps, and comprehensive travel information.

Squashed Possums, Off the Beaten Track in New Zealand

Squashed Possums: Off the Beaten Track in New Zealand is a unique travelogue told from the perspective of a camper van, recounting a full year of travel in the wilds of New Zealand, accompanied by author Jonathan Tindale.  The style is a little quirky, but the stories of their adventures do provide a good perspective on this wonderful country, the wildlife, and Maori culture.