Reasons To Visit New Zealand
This small nation has established a name for fabulous wineries, many internationally acclaimed. Whilst most will point connoisseurs to the Marlborough region for the finest vintages, Hawkes Bay and Martinborough should not be ignored. A trip here would not be complete without trying the local 'fush 'n' chups' or traditional Maori fare either.
For a small country, New Zealand incorporates landscapes as diverse as they come. Mountains, volcanoes, beaches, lakes, fiords, valleys and caves - to the everyday traveller these remarkable sights are other-worldly. Both the North and South islands share many common features, but are also wonderfully contrasting.
It's not necessary to throw yourself off a suspended platform in order to fully experience New Zealand. Alternative options include air safaris over White Island, heli-hiking the Fox and Franz Josef glaciers and wilderness cruises in Milford and Doubful Sounds.
New Zealanders are proud of their Maori roots. Maori song, dance and mythology are prevalent, towns are adorned with carvings and rooms are dressed in flax weavings. Most physical locations also have Maori names with literal translations such as Waimakariri River (Cold water river).
The 'outdoors' perception of New Zealanders is not something consciously cultivated; with such a plentitude of mountains, beaches, fiords lakes and forests on their doorstep it is simply a way of life.
New Zealand has wonderful roads - scenic, safe and, especially on the South Island, largely empty. They even drive on the left and some of the most scenic routes are waymarked. There are car hire stations at all of New Zealand's airports.
There are so many excellent hikes - or 'tramps' as the locals call them - in New Zealand that it is sometimes difficult to know which one to select. We feature several of the country's 'great walks' which can easily be incorportated into any itinerary.
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New Zealand & the South Pacific
Happily located in the heart of the world-renowned Marlborough wine region, Blenheim is the place to pick up a delectable bottle of sauvignon blanc, perhaps from one of the most famous vineyards of all: Cloudy Bay.
Brydan on Rose is the perfect base to explore the famous vineyards of the Marlborough region and is only a few minutes from the centre of Blenheim.All units are clean and comfortable...
The Marlborough Vintners Hotel and Vintners Room restaurant are located in the heart of the Blenheim winelands, and provide contemporary, self-contained accommodation right amongst the...
Formerly the Public Trust Bank of Blenheim now converted into a delightful boutique hotel, this offers just 12 fabulously and uniquely decorated guest bedrooms, high ceilinged and elegant in...
A truly magnificent example of Victorian craftsmanship has been painstakingly returned to her former glory of 100 years ago, with just five guest suites beautifully crafted in native...
Radfield House is a historical home in Blenheim, originally built in 1925 by Henry Hibbert Harris, a successful Pohenui Station sheep farmer who needed a town house when visiting from his...
The Bell Tower is a purpose built boutique lodge situated amid stunning scenery overlooking Marlborough's vineyards. The main building features three adjoining living rooms and a separate...
Like spicy soldiers, a row of pepper trees line the road that leads into this enchanting Edwardian villa. Surrounded by farmland and olive groves The Peppertree lives in the heart of...
The Vintner's Retreat is a relatively new addition to the small list of high quality, character accommodation to be found in Marlborough. With fourteen two and three bedroom villas spread...
Lake Timara Lodge sits within 25 acres of beautifully landscaped gardens, making it a great place to experience the space and freedom of New Zealand first hand.
14 days from £2,910pp
19 days from £3,145pp
17 days from £12,795pp
Nelson & Marlborough, 15 miles away
Nelson & Marlborough, 26 miles away
Nelson & Marlborough, 38 miles away
Nelson & Marlborough, 65 miles away
Nelson & Marlborough, 86 miles away
Further reading:New ZealandRegions of New ZealandWhen to GoHighlightsItinerary IdeasPlaces to GoThings to DoAccommodationAbout New ZealandCountry Guides
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