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
Rivalling Queenstown with its picture-perfect setting, Wanaka sits on the southern willow-clad shore of Lake Wanaka and is the gateway to Mount Aspiring National Park.
This delightful family home makes a welcoming bed and breakfast on the edge of central Wanaka. Blair and Rosie are your hosts and will advise you on lots of things to do in the area. ...
For outdoor enthusiasts and keen walkers, Te Wanaka Lodge is ideal. Your hosts are passionate hikers, skiers, sailors and bikers, as well as being connoisseurs of good Kiwi cuisine and the...
The Moorings at Lake Wanaka are part of a new wave of self-contained apartment accommodation options that are so popular in New Zealand. You have a lounge and fully equipped kitchen area...
Comprised of 22 spacious and stylish apartments, Lakeside offers quality accommodation with uninterrupted vistas across the lake to the snow-capped mountains beyond. Each apartment...
This lovely boutique bed and breakfast is set a few minutes of town and has spectacular views towards the Aspiring, Crown and Criffel Mountain Ranges. The property is set in 10 acres of private...
River Run Lodge, just six minutes’ drive from Lake Wanaka and bordering the Clutha, New Zealand’s largest river, offers stylish accommodation with a real earthy charm. Purpose built using...
Wanaka Springs is an excellent example of true Kiwi hospitality and is one of our favourites. Hosted by fifth generation New Zealanders, Lyn and Murray, this eight bedroom property is...
Set in arguably the finest location in Wanaka, Whare Kea is a truly special place to stay. The main guest lounge is constructed almost entirely from glass and its design really utilises its...
25 days from £3,855pp
Southern Lakes, 23 miles away
Southern Lakes, 33 miles away
Southern Lakes, 39 miles away
Southern Lakes, 60 miles away
Southern Lakes, 85 miles away
Further reading:New ZealandRegions of New ZealandWhen to GoHighlightsItinerary IdeasPlaces to GoThings to DoAccommodationAbout New ZealandCountry Guides
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