Whatever you may have read, whichever of the Lord of the Rings trilogy you may have seen, nothing can prepare you for your first sight of New Zealand in the flesh. It will take your breath away. New Zealand is one of the most beautiful countries in the world. It has the cleanest air on the planet. More than a third is protected as either a national park or nature reserve. From the voluptuous, volcanic topography of New Zealand’s North Island to the Alpine majesty and deep fiords of the South, it’s one long visual indulgence.
We guarantee that you will never forget the wonderful experiences that await you on your holiday to New Zealand. New Zealand’s landscapes, however, cry out for your engagement as well as inspection. Anyone who likes to explore the great outdoors on foot will find world famous treks. Water sports enthusiasts can enjoy sailing, even within the boundaries of the country’s largest cities, kayaking through amazing marine parks and rafting down the frothiest of rivers as well as fishing for trophy-size trout. And adrenalin junkies can indulge in all manner of exciting pursuits.
One thing you won’t experience on your New Zealand holiday is boredom. Another is crowds; although the country is some 10% larger than Britain, its population is less than 10% of the size of ours. Visitors looking for gentler diversions will find superb accommodation, from boutique B&Bs to luxury New Zealand lodges, not only in the towns and well known destinations, but also in the most spectacular and remote locations, sometimes accessible only by boat or helicopter.
Wherever you choose to travel, in cities or along the coast, in national parks or to offshore islands, you’ll discover the delights of New Zealand’s legendary food and wine. We do not have the slightest doubt that you will love everything about New Zealand, including the easy going, friendly Kiwis themselves. The only question will be whether you can bear to come back home again.
Highlights of New Zealand North Island
The
North Island is the smallest of the two main islands of
New Zealand, and as its name indicates, is the northern-most of the two islands. Its northern location means it enjoys a warmer, more temperate climate than much of the
South Island, and is more populated.
Northland and Bay of Islands at the very northern tip enjoys a sub-tropical climate making it perfect for sailing or cruising around the many islands in the bay.
Just a short drive from
Auckland the Coromandel Peninsula is home to rugged volcanic hills cloaked in native rainforest, and more than 400 kms of spectacular coastline. The centre of the island including
Rotorua, Taupo and Tongariro, is primarily a volcanic landscape with vast forests, volcanic peaks, and picturesque lakes.
Hawke’s Bay on the eastern side of the island is covered with vineyards.
The North Island is also home to the largest city in New Zealand—Auckland, also known as the 'City of Sails', and the Capital City of New Zealand—Wellington.
Highlights of New Zealand South Island
The South Island is the larger of the two main islands of New Zealand, and as its name indicates, is the southern-most of the two islands.
The West Coast is paralled by the Southern Alps mountain ranges with Aoraki/Mount Cook being the highest point at 3,754 metres (12,316 feet). It's a wild place known for mountain peaks, massive glaciers, bizarre limestone landscapes, mysterious lakes and raging rivers and lush rainforest.
The largest city in the South Island is Christchurch, known as the 'Garden City' because of its many stunningly beautiful gardens, and its tree-lined streets. Queenstown and Wanaka in the south west are both surrounded by magnificent mountainous scenery making them both hubs for a wide range of activities. They are also the gateway to Fiordland which is one of the most dramatic and beautiful parts of New Zealand.
The North of the South Island is home to the wine producing regions of
Nelson and
Marlborough as well as the spectacular coastlines of the
Abel Tasman National Park and
Marlborough Sounds.
Kaikoura, situated about halfway between
Christchurch and Picton on the east coast of the
South Island, offers a unique combination of ocean and mountains. The stunning coastal alpine scenery includes a host of eco-tourism activities including whale watching, dolphin swimming and seal snorkelling.
