New Zealand is an island country in the southwestern Pacific Ocean.The country geographically comprises two main landmasses – that of the North Island, or Te Ika-a-Māui, and the South Island, or Te Waipounamu – and numerous smaller islands. New Zealand is situated east of Australia across the Tasman Sea and south of the Pacific island areas of New Caledonia, Fiji, and Tonga. Because of its remoteness, it was one of the last lands to be settled by humans. During its long isolation, New Zealand developed a distinctive biodiversity of animal, fungal and plant life. The country’s varied topography and its sharp mountain peaks, such as the Southern Alps, owe much to the tectonic uplift of land and volcanic eruptions. New Zealand’s capital city is Wellington, while its most populous city is Auckland.
Popular Things To Do:
The great Kiwi road trip! Self-drive holidays are one of the best ways to experience New Zealand, giving you the freedom to stop frequently and discover the beautiful landscapes and stunning geographical features at your own pace.
New Zealand is a mecca for the adventure traveler. You might enjoy some of the many adventures offered such as bungee jumping, sea kayaking, mountain biking, zorbing, jet boating, skiing, tramping, fly fishing & so much more.
The Hobbit Trilogy was filmed entirely in New Zealand and there are several itineraries to satisfy the film buffs out there.
Some of the best wines in the world come from New Zealand. Why not cycle through some of the regions, stopping off to enjoy some wine-tasting along the way?
Perhaps you are interested in nature & wildlife…whale watching, swimming with dolphins or catching a glimpse of the flightless national symbol of New Zealand, the Kiwi, are wonderful additions to any itinerary.
Featured Destinations:
North Island
Hawke’s Bay – The warm climate makes this one of New Zealand’s finest wine growing regions. With over 100 vineyards and 80 wineries, you can drive the Classic New Zealand Wine Trail sampling along the way. How about taking a tractor out to see the largest mainland gannet colony in the world? For architecture lovers, wander along Emerson & Tennyson Streets to see the numerous art deco buildings.
Rotorua – A place of fascinating Māori culture, hot springs and boiling mud pools. Taste a hangi (traditional meal cooked under the ground) in a Maori village. Pamper yourself in a health spa or relax & soak all day in the many hot springs and mud pools.
Auckland – With a picturesque harbourside, gorgeous beaches nearby and a vibrant, multicultural city, Auckland encompasses everything that’s great about New Zealand. Shop ‘til you drop, dine in some of the many award-winning restaurants or enjoy an espresso in a lively little café. Or take a short ferry ride to explore one of the surrounding islands in the Hauraki Gulf.
South Island
Queenstown – With the reputation of being the adventure capital, Queenstown continues to push the boundaries with an array of offerings for the intrepid traveler. Bungy jumping, canyon swinging, luging – you can easily overload on the adrenaline here. Whether it be mountain activities, water activities in lakes and rivers, golfing, or shopping and dining, this is a must do on anyone’s itinerary.
Fiordland – One of the most dramatic and beautiful parts of New Zealand. The breathtaking natural surroundings can be enjoyed from the air, water or by hiking one of the many famous trails of this region. Take in the waterfalls & forests of Milford or Doubtful Sounds. How about touring through the incredible glow worm caves?
Kaikoura – Home to a unique ocean environment with an astonishing variety of marine life including whales, dolphins, seals and albatross, Kaikoura provides an unforgettable location to experience eco-tourism at its best. Year round whale watching, swimming in the open ocean with dolphins in their natural habitat, deep sea fishing in abundant waters, or just relax with an ocean sunrise and a snow-capped mountain sunset.
