New Zealand Travel Guides & Information

New Zealand is a compact country with a rich variety of natural, cultural and historical attractions all within easy reach of each other. Whether it’s hiking in the 14 National Parks, trekking close to active volcanoes or skiing in dramatic mountain terrain, the eye-catching scenery is the perfect setting for outdoor activities. Divided into two main islands, New Zealand has a two-for-one structure, a fact that the super friendly kiwis love to share with visitors.

The North Island has the warmer climate, defined by a spine of mountain ranges running through the middle and gentle rolling farmland on either side. The central area is dominated by active volcanoes and geothermal activity most notable in Rotorua and Lake Taupo regions. The secluded beaches of the Bay of Islands lay in the north, while the iconic harbour cities of Auckland and Wellington provide a healthy supply of cultural, dining and leisure attractions.

The South Island is a contrasting landscape of incredible mountain scenery and deep blue lakes. The Marlborough region is a haven for wine lovers with a reputation for producing many of the world’s finest wines. The West Coast brings wild untamed coastline and the opportunity of a guided tour on the Fox and Franz Josef glaciers.  Over on the east coast, whale watching in kaikoura and the ‘Garden City’ of Christchurch await. Further south, Queenstown is the ‘adventure capital’ with an endless supply of high-octane activities while Fjordland National Park is the setting of the spectacular Milford and Doubtful Sounds.

Whatever the season, whatever your tastes, New Zealand’s endless possibilities and charm will keep you coming back for years to come.

• Once part of Australia, New Zealand gained independence in 1901.
• Unlike the kiwi fruit, New Zealand’s nickname comes from its flightless native bird.
• New Zealand is one of only three countries to have two national anthems; God Save the Queen and God Defend New Zealand.
• There are approximately nine sheep to every one person.
• New Zealand’s capital city, Wellington, is the southernmost capital in the world.
• The first man to reach the top of Everest, Sir Edmund Hillary, was a New Zealander.
• New Zealand, the land of plastic, invented bungee jumping, zorbing and black water rafting.