A Minecraft-Inspired Itinerary You Didn’t Know You Needed

We've been dreaming of a New Zealand escape ever since...

Image Credit: Tourism New Zealand

From flipping through the glossy pages of travel magazines, daydreaming over sun-drenched backdrops of The White Lotus, or bookmarking dreamy vlogs from our favourite travel influencers, travel inspiration is never too far away. But with the rise of immersive tech, new research shows that Aussies are now turning to the virtual worlds of their favourite video games to inspire their next escape.

Enter: virtual voyaging.

Image Credit: Tourism New Zealand

What Is Virtual Voyaging?

Virtual voyaging—where virtual or augmented reality, and interactive simulations let you explore the world without leaving the comfort of your own home—has been making waves in the travel industry.

While it’s a win for those running low on annual leave (guilty), game and VR worlds have become key in shaping our wanderlust and travel goals.

Just as fans of Studio Ghibli flock to the whimsical locations that inspired the films, our sights have been set on New Zealand ever since A Minecraft Movie dropped earlier this year.

And, if you thought Auckland’s natural beauty was striking in the almost 2-D landscape of the blocky Minecraft aesthetic, wait until you experience the City of Sails in real life.

From bustling nightlife to majestic fjords, a Minecraft-inspired itinerary is your unexpected ticket to exploring the Land of the Long White Cloud.

Image Credit: Tourism New Zealand

A Minecraft-Inspired New Zealand Itinerary You Won’t Want to Miss

Not only are these curated itineraries inspired by the cult-favourite game and film, but they take care of all the essentials—from accommodation and flights to unmissable experiences—perfect for time-poor travellers in need of a well-earned escape (aren’t we all?).

And the best part? You can save up to $800 thanks to these exclusive Flight Centre travel deals.

Ready to level up your holiday plans? Rally the group chat and start packing—below, we’ve rounded up our favourite Minecraft-inspired destinations, thrilling itineraries, and unmissable deals.

New Zealand Minecraft-Inspired Travel Deals: North Island

Image Credit: Flight Centre

Discover Rotorua: From Mud Pools to Maori Culture, 3 Nights from $468 per person

Immerse yourself in the rich history of Maori culture and listen to the story of the migration of Tamatekapua of the Te Arawa canoe to Aotearoa in this immersive experience. Afterwards, unwind at Hell’s Gate—Rotorua’s most active geothermal reserve—where a therapeutic mud bath and mineral-rich spa await.

This itinerary includes:

  • 3 nights at Rydges Rotorua
  • Mitai Maori Culture experience and dinner
  • Hell’s Gate mud bath and spa experience
  • Return flights (optional)*
  • Save up to $235

Return flights are optional and are available to book with all flight and stay reservations at Flight Centre. T&C’s apply.

Book now

Image Credit: Flight Centre

Auckland & Waiheke Island Gourmet Getaway, 3 Nights from $725 per person

New Zealand’s largest and most cosmopolitan city, Auckland is a vibrant hub of culture, cuisine, and coastal charm. Check in to the design-forward QT Auckland, where a bonus room upgrade sets the tone for a luxurious escape. From there, enjoy a guided food and wine tour through Waiheke Island, sampling regional delicacies and world-class vintages.

What this itinerary includes:

  • 3 nights at QT Auckland
  • A Gourmet Food and Wine Tour at Waiheke Island (a short ferry ride away from the city)
  • Bonus room upgrade
  • Bonus breakfast daily
  • Return flights (optional)*
  • Save up to $615

Book now

Return flights are optional and are available to book with all flight and stay reservations at Flight Centre. T&C’s apply.

Image Credit: Flight Centre

Wellington & Weta Workshop Experience, 3 nights from $393

A dream for film lovers, this Wellington escape blends creativity with culture. Start your day exploring the city’s vibrant boutiques and charming cafés before stepping behind the scenes at the renowned Weta Workshop, where cinematic craftsmanship comes to life. And for those with a sweet tooth, a daily chocolate hour tasting experience is just the cherry on top.

This itinerary includes:

  • 3 nights stay at the Movenpick Hotel Wellington
  • Bonus 2-for-1 Weta Workshop experience
  • Daily Chocolate Hour tasting experience
  • Breakfast daily
  • Return flights (optional)*

Book now

Return flights are optional and are available to book with all flight and stay reservations at Flight Centre. T&C’s apply.

New Zealand Minecraft-Inspired Travel Deals: South Island

Image Credit: Flight Centre

Queenstown Adventure & Jetboat Thrills, 5 nights from $448 per person

Framed by rolling hills and snow-capped mountains, Queenstown’s breathtaking views make it a must-visit destination. From thrilling jet boat rides to sweeping lakeside views, there’s much to do and plenty to see. You’ve heard the hype about Queenstown, so why not head on over and experience it for yourself?

This itinerary includes:

  • 5 nights’ stay at BreakFree The Point, a 2-bedroom lakeview apartment
  • KJet 60-minute jet boat ride across Lake Wakatipu and down the world-famous Kawarau and Shotover Rivers
  • Return flights (optional)
  • Save up to $800

Book now

Return flights are optional and are available to book with all flight and stay reservations at Flight Centre. T&C’s apply.

Image Credit: Flight Centre

Queenstown & Milford Sound Cruise, 5 nights from $1,050 per person

No trip to Queenstown is complete without a Milford Sound cruise. With cascading waterfalls, sky-high mountains and lush rainforests, the sights at Milford Sound are unmatched. If conditions allow, your captain might even edge close enough to a waterfall for you to feel its spray on your skin.

This itinerary includes:

  • 5 nights at Crowne Plaza Hotel Queenstown by IHG
  • Milford Sound cruise and coach tour
  • Return airport transfers
  • Return flights (optional)*
  • Save up to $400

Book now

Return flights are optional and are available to book with all flight and stay reservations at Flight Centre. T&C’s apply.

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