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 and the South Pacific
The most English of New Zealand’s cities, Christchurch is the provincial capital and also serves as the international gateway to the many scenic wonders of South Island.
Conveniently located 15-20 minutes walk into the centre of town, this motel is easily found if arriving from the airport or from the north of the city. Christchurch offers a huge range of...
Originally built in 1893 by the England brothers, renowned architects of the period, the Orari is a fabulous heritage building that has been restored and refurbished to offer comfortable bed and...
Dyers House is located in the pretty southern suburb of Cashmere, and is one of the area's oldest homes. It has been lovingly restored to provide luxurious guest accommodation in just three...
Set overlooking Christchurch’s Central Park, the George Hotel has 55 guest rooms and, as a member of the Small Luxury Hotels of the World, takes its cuisine seriously, with two of the best...
This secluded luxury lodge and historic homestead is set on a working 1,000 hectare deer, sheep and cattle station and is surrounded by the stunning unspoiled scenery of the Waipara...
Huntley Lodge is surrounded by manicured lawns and park-like gardens fringed by towering trees which belies its location just a short drive from Christchurch city centre. This...
This stunning lodge is just 20 minutes drive from Christchurch but feels a world away. It was built in 1895 for Sir Heaton Rhodes, one of the pioneers of early Canterbury, and was...
14 days from £2,830pp
19 days from £3,145pp
17 days from £12,795pp
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Christchurch & Canterbury, 111 miles away
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