Imagine exploring the stunning landscapes of New Zealand, paddling a traditional Māori waka, visiting the Waitomo glowworm caves, or stargazing in Tekapo, all from the pixelated world of Minecraft. Thanks to an exciting collaboration between Tourism New Zealand, Warner Bros. Pictures, and Mojang Studios, players worldwide can now experience New Zealand like never before with the Aotearoa New Zealand DLC, a world-first travel destination inside the best-selling video game of all time.
Launching just in time for the highly anticipated “A Minecraft Movie”, which was filmed in New Zealand and stars Jason Momoa and Jack Black, this unique DLC is more than just a game, it’s an invitation to turn pixels into plane tickets and experience Aotearoa for real.
What Awaits You in the Aotearoa New Zealand Minecraft DLC?
The New Zealand DLC brings six of the country’s most iconic destinations to life inside Minecraft, allowing players to embark on adventure-filled quests inspired by real-world experiences.
Explore These Stunning Locations:
- Waitomo Caves (Waikato): Marvel at the glow of thousands of tiny bioluminescent glowworms
- Rotorua (Bay of Plenty): Witness geothermal wonders and experience Māori culture
- Kapiti Island (Wellington): Discover rare wildlife on one of New Zealand’s most protected nature reserves
- Abel Tasman (Nelson/Tasman): Kayak through golden beaches and crystal-clear waters
- Tekapo (Mackenzie): Stargaze under some of the world’s clearest night skies
- Doubtful Sound (Fiordland): Explore breathtaking fjords and dramatic landscapes
What Can Players Do?
- Paddle a waka (Māori canoe) along the stunning coastline
- Discover Māori culture, customs, and taonga (treasures)
- Listen to taonga pūoro (traditional Māori instruments)
- Experience the native wildlife of New Zealand
- Take part in adventure activities inspired by real-life experiences
The DLC isn’t just about exploration, it’s about immersion, allowing players to truly feel the spirit of Aotearoa before making their own journey a reality.
A Minecraft Movie: From Pixels to the Big Screen
The DLC coincides with the upcoming release of “A Minecraft Movie”, a live-action adaptation of the beloved game, which was filmed entirely in New Zealand. With a global release set for April 3, 2025, the film promises to bring the blocky world of Minecraft to life in an epic cinematic adventure.
Torfi Frans Ólafsson, Senior Creative Director at Minecraft and Producer of “A Minecraft Movie,” shared his excitement about filming in New Zealand:
“Shooting in New Zealand was an incredible experience. The breathtaking landscapes and creative local talent perfectly reflect the values of Minecraft which is positivity, creativity, and curiosity.”
“Whenever we weren’t filming, we were out exploring. There is so much to experience in New Zealand that you can’t do anywhere else. Now, we’re excited to give Minecraft players a glimpse of it through the Aotearoa New Zealand DLC.”
From Virtual to Reality: The 100% Pure Minecraft Itinerary
For those inspired to turn their virtual adventures into a real-life journey, Tourism New Zealand is offering an official 100% Pure Minecraft itinerary. This exclusive travel plan lets gamers and adventure seekers follow their in-game journey in real life, visiting the same locations featured in the DLC.
Plan Your Own New Zealand Adventure:
- Book real-life experiences inspired by your Minecraft journey
- Explore Māori culture and history firsthand
- Embark on outdoor adventures just like in the game
René de Monchy, Chief Executive of Tourism New Zealand, hopes the initiative will encourage players to make the leap from gaming to globetrotting:
“This is our chance to invite the world to ‘play’ New Zealand and show just how much fun they can have here. We want people to get an immersive taste of what Aotearoa has to offer—first in Minecraft, and then in real life.”
Join the Adventure: Watch It Live on Twitch & TikTok!
Want a sneak peek? Local gaming and travel creator Denise Teo (@supercatkei) will be livestreaming the Aotearoa New Zealand DLC on Twitch and TikTok LIVE on 20 March at 8 PM MYT. Watch as she embarks on her Minecraft journey through New Zealand, showcasing the country’s most thrilling experiences in real-time.
How to Play the Aotearoa New Zealand DLC
Available for FREE on the Minecraft Marketplace
Release Date: 19 March 2025, 1 AM MYT
Platforms: Playable on all Minecraft: Bedrock Edition devices
Ready to Explore? Your New Zealand Adventure Starts Now!
Download the Aotearoa New Zealand DLC now and start your virtual adventure! Plan your real-life trip with the official 100% Pure Minecraft itinerary and don’t forget to watch “A Minecraft Movie” in cinemas from April 3, 2025
Learn more and book your New Zealand adventure:
