New Zealand: What to Expect / Highlights

Landscapes

Vary from lush, fertile pastures to magnificent mountain ranges that seem to emerge from the sea and remain snow capped even through the height of summer. Relax on golden sandy beaches or hike to the top of a volcano.

Flora & Fauna

Because it has been separated from mainland for 80 million years, there are many plants and animals that are found nowhere else on earth, from flightless birds, primitive frogs and plants as old as dinosaurs. Wildlife colonies abound, from Bottlenose and Hector's dolphins to the yellow-eyed penguin, the world's rarest species.

Maori Culture & Art

A complex people from Pacific Island descent, the Maoris excel in wood, bone and stone carving. They pass on ancestral knowledge by oratory, chant, song and dance.

Wine Country

New Zealand has developed an incredible reputation since the 1980s for its white wines. Visitors can stop in at vineyards and taste the variety of wines produced on both the north and south islands. The focus of this industry is primarily in Nelson and Marlborough on the South Island.

The South Island

This part of New Zealand is renowned for unparalleled beauty from mountain ranges, lakes, rivers and fiords, to golden sandy beaches and vineyards. Mount Cook National Park is impressive with its extremely high peak surrounded by lush, tropical flora. Abel Tasman National Park is a favorite place to kayak the clear, turquoise waters or hike the trails above the sandy beaches. The "Sounds", Milford and Doubtful being the most popular are some of the best examples of untouched rain forest. You can trek or take a boat around these regions.

The North Island

The beautiful Bay of Islands in the northern part of the island are surrounded by warm, clear water and little coves, making it a great place for deep-sea fishing and diving. The boiling mud, hot springs and geysers of Rotorua are a great place to relax. If you prefer to be more active, visit during June-September to ski Mount Ruapehu. More of the Maori culture is found on the North Island than the South Island.

TIME TO GO:

There are things to see and do all year round. The warmer months (November to April) are busiest, especially during the school holidays from December 20 to the end of January. Ski resort towns are obviously busier during the winter months. If you're traveling during peak periods (especially the Christmas season) it's best to book ahead, as much accommodation and transport fills up. It's probably more pleasant to visit either before or after this hectic period, when the weather is still warm and there aren't as many other travelers around.