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
At the heart of New Zealand’s geothermal activity and a major focus for Maori culture, Rotorua is situated on the southern shore of Lake Rotorua.
Just minutes from town at Kawaha Point, this lake-edge haven offers seclusion and comfort. There are four beautifully appointed guest rooms, each with striking contemporary Maori...
Just a few minutes away from the busy town centre, but infinitely more laid-back in feel, lies the pretty suburb of Kawaha Point. At the heart of the community spread along the lake front,...
Built in 1998 but recreating an authentic 1930’s bungalow, this four room bed & breakfast in the heart of Rotorua exudes an individual charm and elegance. The guest wing is to...
Previously the Kawaha Point Lodge, this property was extensively refurbished during 2011 and is now known as The Black Swan Boutique Hotel. This luxury bed and breakfast combines...
Only half an hour from Rotorua city, but located in 1000 hectares of native bush, Treetops Lodge is the ultimate in privacy. The lodge is the dream creation of its owner, based on...
14 days from £2,830pp
19 days from £3,145pp
14 days from £3,220pp
The Thermal Plateau, 38 miles away
The Thermal Plateau, 82 miles away
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