The Bread & Circus World Buskers Festival returns to Christchurch stages and street pitches from 19 – 28 January. What’s Hot New Zealand has done a deep dive into the jam-packed programme and come up with some acts that are sure to have you going O-M-G. Wander in a labyrinth of light and colour, through […]
December 2025
Best places to get a culture fix in the South Island, New Zealand
Te Waipounamu’s thriving arts communities, Māori cultural experiences and colonial architecture form a rich tapestry. Dip your toe in some local heritage wherever you are, or dive into a cultural road trip and explore all the parts that make Aotearoa truly unique. Christchurch, Dunedin and Oamaru each have their own distinct, beautiful ,and historically significant […]
Where to see wildlife in the North Island, New Zealand
Lush rainforests harbour a wide variety of native animals, and the warmer waters around the North Island’s coast are home to some of the world’s best sea life. Nature lovers need only walk off the side of the road in many places around Te Ika-a-Māui to find world-class natural experiences. Dive, snorkel, or simply hold […]
Where to find all of the iconic giant statues and landmarks in New Zealand
What’s up with New Zealand’s small towns and giant statues? Compensating for something? You’ve probably spotted at least a few big things in your area or road tripping around the country – maybe the world famous in New Zealand L&P bottle in Paeroa or the carrot in Ohakune that went from orange to black and […]
Mini Guides – What's Hot New Zealand
Travel information for locals exploring New Zealand or overseas visitors travelling to the country – this is the ultimate guide for discovering Kiwi activities, accommodation, culture, style, wellbeing, dining out, shopping and entertainment in New Zealand. What’s Hot New Zealand wraps up a whole host of the hidden gems that await the adventurous traveller. It’s […]
Making connections – Q&A: Ebony Lamb
As a portrait photographer, Ebony Lamb has an eye for the defining detail. As a songwriter, she shows that same clear insight. We talk timing, connections and the power of 3 ahead of her national tour. This album’s been a slow burn for you – why was that? Good things really do take time. Finding the […]
Top talent for NZ Opera’s 2024 programme
NZ Opera has assembled a top-tier lineup of local and international talent for its 2024 programme, a trio of productions that traverse nearly two centuries of musical history, from classic bel canto to contemporary brilliance. First up, in April, is the New Zealand premiere of Mansfield Park, based on the Jane Austen novel and set to […]
The best luxury experiences in the North Island, New Zealand
Thermal springs, lush forest, massage and pamper – we’ve found some of the most luxurious spots to relax and unwind in the North Island, ranging from exclusive high-end spas to open wilderness hot springs. The geothermal capital of Aotearoa is awash with natural hot springs to melt all your troubles away. At Hell’s Gate you […]
