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
The Hawke’s Bay region, where warm sunny summers and crisp winter frosts create an arena perfect for horticulture, is known as the ‘fruit bowl’ of New Zealand, particularly renowned for its apples and kiwi fruit.
The Bella Vista Motel in Napier can be found in a prime location on Hastings Street, just a few steps away from the beachfront, and ten minutes to the city centre, Marine Parade, and the...
Cobden Garden Homestay is perched above the town centre in the heart of a delightful residential suburb of historical houses. Two guestrooms, one with a large spa bath and the other...
The Crown Hotel Port Ahuriri overlooks the waterfront in the village of Ahuriri, Napier, offering premier accommodation in this luxurious seaside setting. The hotel has 27 stylish and...
This colonial villa was built circa 1900 and is one of the oldest buildings in the region. Fairhall now provides boutique accommodation in just three individual recently refurbished guest...
Breckenridge Lodge is nestled in the picturesque valley of Omarunui, offering ever-changing views across the vineyards and surrounding orchard below. The setting is perfect, and the...
At this unique property, both a working vineyard and luxurious homestay, you can try being a ‘vintner’ for a while. Guests here are invited to learn about every aspect of the wine...
Built in the 1890s as a family summer residence, McHardy Lodge has been lovingly restored to its former glory and now offers gracious and luxurious accommodation. The interior is...
If visiting Napier for its famous art deco buildings, The Master’s Lodge is an unmissable treat. The hosts have painstakingly created a beautiful, luxurious property that remains true to the...
Perched on a private 6,000 acre farm and surrounded by rolling pasturelands, the Lodge at Cape Kidnappers enjoys incredible views out across the mighty Hawkes Bay. The lodge itself...
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Further reading:New ZealandRegions of New ZealandWhen to GoHighlightsItinerary IdeasPlaces to GoThings to DoAccommodationAbout New ZealandCountry Guides
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