Commonly pitted against one another - New Zealand and Australia have a mostly friendly rivalry. Their proximity to each other means they share many similarities, but perhaps more surprising is their differences that make them stand out as equally unique Oceania destinations.
Does Size Matter?
When you look at Australia next to New Zealand on a map, Australia’s massive size does much to dwarf the tiny 3 islands of New Zealand. However despite her size, much of Australia’s interior is largely uninhabitable - the coasts attracting most travelers unless you’re visiting Uluru.
Despite being nearly 29 times smaller than Australia, New Zealand packs a major punch with a wide variety of unique landscapes, and a reputation for being an adventure capital of the world.
Landscape
Although they both occupy the same region of the world, the landscape features of Australia and New Zealand are strikingly dissimilar.
Australia, while enormous, is very dry and flat. The huge outback is largely uninhabited, though a few settlements exist, especially around Uluru. The majority of the Australian population lives along the coasts.
In the Northeastern Queensland area, you'll find rainforests such as Daintree, and much greener areas to explore. This is also where the impressive Great Barrier Reef exists.
In southern Australia - New South Wales is more temperate climate-wise. The landscape is beachier and you'll even encounter some mountains outside of Sydney. This is also where the major cities of Australia are, Melbourne, Sydney, and Canberra further inland. It’s also where the wineries are so the soil and climate are good for the vineyards.
New Zealand on the other hand is smaller and greener, with a lot more variation.
New Zealand is quite mountainous, with volcanic formations, fjords, geothermal hot springs, fields upon fields of lupins in the summer, and lush brightly colored lakes.
The weather is quite a bit cooler in New Zealand overall than Australia, which can get scorching hot in the summer months.
Culture
The modern culture in Australia and New Zealand isn’t really that different. Both countries have a well deserved reputation for being friendly to visitors, easy going and laid back.
They also enjoy a beer or two and have an adventurous streak (New Zealand pulls slightly ahead on the hard core adventure - but then again Australians swim in billabongs with crocodiles, so you know what, we’ll just call this one a draw). Adventure travelers these destinations are for you!
Both Australia and New Zealand were British colonies at one point, and each country's native population suffered as a result. Their livelihood today is heavily dependent on tourism.
In Australia, the aboriginal culture is less prevalent outside of the outback and Northern Territories. Visitors to Uluru have a many opportunities to learn about the Aborignal culture, but beyond that there isn’t much true Aboriginal integration into modern society.
Of course visitors will see lots of Aboriginal art for sale around Australia, and the sound of didgeridoos can be heard in heavily touristed areas.
New Zealand’s native Maori culture is far more visible throughout the country. Locals often use Maori phrases such as “Kia ora '' to greet visitors, and numerous cities and towns throughout the country are Maori words.
The Haka is frequently demonstrated for tourists, and is famously a part of the New Zealand rugby teams intimidation tactics.
Weather
In general, New Zealand has a cooler climate than Australia year round. The average summer temperature in Australia is 86 degrees F while New Zealand reaches between 68 and 77 degrees F in summertime.
Australia vs New Zealand: Highlights
Both Australia and New Zealand offer unique sights and activities for travelers to enjoy.
Australia
Australia’s massive size means that you’ll likely not get to see everything the country has to offer, unless you a) have a very long time or b) spend very little time in each destination and more time traveling between them.
We highly recommend spending more time enjoying these incredible sites rather than trying to rush around. Here are just some of the ones not to miss!
Great Barrier Reef
A major highlight for travelers to Australia is the Great Barrier Reef. With hundreds of thousands of colorful fish and coral it’s easy to spend hours snorkeling in this idyllic location.
The reef is a destination threatened by climate change, so traveling with a reputable tour company is important for preserving this natural wonder.
Uluru (Ayers Rock)
Located in Central Australia, Uluru is a location of great cultural significance to the aboriginals. It is recommended to visit with a local guide who can help illuminate its importance.
You can no longer climb to the top of Uluru, for safety reasons, but visitors are able to walk around the base of the mighty monolith. Have your camera ready for beautiful outback shots!
Sydney Harbor
The stunning Sydney Harbor bridge and Sydney Opera House are the fixtures of Sydney Harbor, the subjects of countless postcards, and for good reason. The harbor is a hub of activity, and while Circular Quay is touristy, it is a fun experience nonetheless.
Taking a cruise through the harbor is a great activity to see Sydney from the water and the Harbor Bridge Walk is the perfect thrill if you’re not afraid of heights!
New Zealand
You will have more opportunities to hit more top sights in New Zealand in one trip due to it’s more compact size. Road trips are popular in New Zealand, and a great way to cover ground while taking in spectacular scenery.
Queenstown
Far and away, one place everyone should visit in New Zealand is the hopping city of Queenstown. Full of the adventurous spirit many travel to New Zealand for, Queenstown is also a great hub for delicious food, cafes, and nightlife. It’s the perfect home base for day trips.
Milford Sound
One of those day trips from Queenstown is the incredible Milford Sound. Take a ferry ride through this beautiful fjord straight out to the Tasman Sea before turning back inland. Floating by hidden waterfalls and mountainous formations rising up out of the water.
Mount Cook National Park
With hikes galore, glaciers, and pristine lakes and rivers Mount Cook is a perfect stop for all manner of outdoorsy types. Whether you enjoy the thrill of mountain climbing or a leisurely walk is more your speed, Mount Cook offers it all. You can camp or stay in luxury before continuing on your South Island adventure.
Which one is for you?
- Australia: Beaches, wine, wildlife, culture
- New Zealand: Adventure, film locations, landscapes, culture
Wondering what to pick between Australia and New Zealand? Here’s a few things to keep in mind:
Australia is the beachier destination. New Zealand has some beautiful beaches, absolutely, but if you’re after a trip to enjoy beach-going culture then stopping in Sydney for Bondi, or heading up to visit Brisbane or Noosa in Queensland is what you’re looking for.
On the other hand, while both countries have a lot of adventure travelers, New Zealand definitely has the edge. Get ready to hop into a speeding jet boat skimming over the water and turning so fast you think you might fly out, or to jump from a bridge with a bungee cord in the original place where the sport was invented.
New Zealand is also a hot spot for film buffs. The epic Lord of the Rings movies were filmed here, directed by native New Zealander, Peter Jackson.
Both Australia and New Zealand are excellent destinations for food and wine. Australia’s Yarra Valley is the prime wine tasting region with excellent Cabernet Sauvignon and Shiraz (among other wonderful varieties). In New Zealand, head to the Marlborough region for crisp and clean Sauvignon Blanc.
Ready to explore Oceania?
