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
Kaikoura is an idyllic small seaside township on a rocky peninsula, with a superb beach and also a walkway encased with pairs of whale ribs, known as the ‘Garden of Memories’.
The Bella Vista Motel in Kaikoura offers good value accommodation in a great location just a five minute walk from the shops, restaurants and most importantly the whale and dolphin watching...
As a small town dwarfed by the mountains and sea, Kaikoura is a perfect place to sit back and consider the majesty of nature and our small part in it. The Lemon Tree Lodge, a...
The Anchor Inn has a great location with sea and mountain views, minutes walk from the whaleway station and the shops and restaurants of Kaikoura town. The self contained standard,...
Situated between the mountains and the Pacific Ocean, Hapuku Lodge enjoys a beautiful location on a deer stud and olive farm. Purpose built to maximise its position, the lodge houses just...
Perched high above the township, this is a truly special spot from which to appreciate the stunning beauty of Kaikoura. Take breakfast in the panoramic dining room or on your...
23 days from £4,160pp
25 days from £3,730pp
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