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Urban List Travel

Hotels, bars, eats, must-dos and travel diaries from folks who love holidaying as much as you do.

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The magnificent New Brighton Pier at sunrise.
Things To Do

What’s On In Christchurch In 2025

Whether you love getting amongst the arts, prefer to eat your way around town, or headbang into the night, Ōtautahi's got something for you. Here are the best events happening in Christchurch in 2025. 
Local Escapes

Your 2025 Guide To Akaroa

Quaint streets, sparkling harbour views, and a vibe so chill you'll toss up selling everything you own and never returning home: Here's your essential 2025 guide on where to eat, play, and stay in lovely old Akaroa.
The opulent drawing room at The Observatory Hotel In Christchurch, one of the best hotels in the city.
Where To Stay

The Best Hotels In Christchurch

As the gateway to the South Island, Ōtautahi Christchurch attracts visitors of all types, and it's not hard to see why. Alongside amazing food and drink, the Garden City is blessed with some of the country’s best hotels, and we've put together a list of our faves so you can have an A+ Christchurch getaway, whether you're travelling in luxury or you're on a budget.
Things To Do Tauranga
Things To Do

The Best Things To Do In Tauranga

The Bay of Plenty boasts some of the best sun, sea and sand that New Zealand has to offer. Tucked away along the coveted coastline is Tauranga, home to the iconic Mauao volcano and dreamy Mount Maunganui beach. Affectionately termed “the Mount” by locals, this seaside gem offers watersports for the adventurous, festivals for the free-spirited and mouth-watering eats for the foodies.
Two people wander about at Hamilton Gardens.
Things To Do

The Best Things To Do In Hamilton

Dubbed The Tron, Hamilton is a vibrant city with countless experiences to uncover. From adventurous activities and epic eats to natural wonders and zen retreats, there’s something for locals and visitors alike. Here are the very best Hamilton attractions.
Local Escapes

Where To Eat, Play And Stay In Northland

The birthplace of the nation, the winterless north, the spot every man and his dog escapes to during the summer—Northland goes by many names, all of them well deserved.  Here are the best places to eat, play and stay while you're there.
Two people soak in a hot tub amongst greenery.
Local Escapes

The Best Hot Pools In New Zealand For You To Bliss Out At

Given Aotearoa is perched on the Pacific Ring Of Fire, it's no wonder Kiwis have an affinity with hot water. How lucky we are then to have an almost endless supply of spots across the country to satisfy our need for a soak, be it a man-made hot pool or hot tub, or a natural hot spring.
Someone tucks into hearty fare at odd saint, one of the best cafes in Queenstown.
Cafes

The Best Cafes In Queenstown

Whether you’re after a healthy meal, a culinary cure after exploring Queenstown’s best bars, or fuel for a day of adventure, there’s something for every brunch or lunch occasion at Queenstown's best cafes. 
Jaw-dropping vistas await at the Crater Rim Walkway, one of the best walks in Christchurch.
Local Escapes

16 Of The Best Walks In Christchurch

Everyone who’s anyone knows New Zealand will deliver when it comes to walking tracks, and the heart of Canterbury is certainly no exception. From your 30-minute morning run before work to a Sunday spent adventuring in the outdoors, Christchurch has it all. With spectacular views and plenty to get the blood pumping, I'm here to share the best walking tracks and trails of our suitably titled Garden City.
Local Escapes

Where to Eat, Play and Stay in Marlborough

From a kaimoana-filled cruise through the picturesque Marlborough Sounds (complete with BBQ boat-side), to trekking through the famous Queen Charlotte Track—Marlborough is just a short flight from Tāmaki Makaurau and makes for one helluva way to escape the daily grind. 
A clear, starlight night's sky over Redwood Bivvy Airbnb.
Local Escapes

The Best Airbnbs In Rotorua Whatever Your Budget

Rotorua is one of the most popular destinations in Aotearoa and for good reason⁠—there’s a helluva lot of awesome things to do there whether you’re into history, hot mud, or adventures to send your adrenaline levels sky high. And there are loads of great places to stay too. 
Stunning seclusion from one of the best airbnbs in Taupo.
Local Escapes

20 Of The Best Airbnbs In Taupō

Sometimes you’ve just had your fill of hotels, motels and Holiday Inns, and you’re yearning for something with a little more… personality. When that mood strikes, it’s all about Airbnb. And if you’re bound for Taupo, you’ll be very pleased to know there are a bunch of great places on offer. 
Local Escapes

The Best Lavender Farms Around New Zealand

The warmer weather is here, and that means it’s the season for lavender to bloom. Here are the best farms across New Zealand where you can stroll amongst the fields, take a picture for the gram and pick your own lavender. Hot tip: pop a few flowers into your next glass of champagne.