A Fresh Perspective on Travel Every Day
Wellington, while smaller than cities like London or New York, offers a plethora of experiences that are distinctly Kiwi. Its charm is evident through the numerous attractions and activities that make it a worthwhile destination.
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New Zealand is the land ofLord of the Rings, home of the All Blacks, and, according to the writer Rudyard Kipling, the eighth Wonder of the World (Milford Sound). If you’ve always dreamt of visiting and are looking for a unique way to travel – or find yourself daunted by the high prices – then you might want to consider WWOOFing.
There are so many new and exciting things to see in Auckland now that travelers can once again visit New Zealand. Commercial Bay is a relatively new addition to the city, revolutionizing the CBD’s retail and hospitality scene. There’s also the reinvigorated Viaduct Harbor, which features several new luxury hotel offerings, and the Britomart precinct – an exquisite industrial transformation that has been two decades in the making.
Here’s how to see New Zealand like a Kiwi.
Visit some of New Zealand’s best beaches, including jaw-dropping options on the North Island and South Island.
If you ever needed a reason to visit New Zealand, then now is the time! You see, it’s totally stunning. This is especially true with all the best places in New Zealand that are dotted all across the islands themselves.
Rotorua and Taupo are two of the major tourist highlights of New Zealand’s North Island. The drive from Auckland, which encompasses both towns, is an easy four-hour journey (excluding stops) with numerous points of interest along the way.
One of the first decisions you’re likely to face when planning a vacation in New Zealand is which island—North or South—you are going to spend most of your time visiting. It’s actually not an easy question to answer as each has so much to offer. Still, unless you have a lot of time, it’s best to focus your time on one or the other. Here are some things to consider to help you decide.
As the last month of spring, the weather in New Zealand becomes notably warmer (usually more settled) during November. Although there can be cold snaps (particularly in the South Island), most Kiwis look forward to November as the start of the warmer weather.
July is a great time to visit New Zealand for winter activities. As the country is in the southern hemisphere, July marks the middle of winter in New Zealand. If you enjoy skiing, you may also want to experience one of the South Island’s mountain resorts near Queenstown, although they can get crowded with locals on weekends. Moreover, keep in mind that some seasonal restaurants and attractions may be closed, so it’s wise to plan accordingly. During this time, the kiwi country is in its quieter off-season, allowing for more affordable hotel stays.
One of the most beautiful driving tours in New Zealand – and perhaps in the world – is around the East Cape of the North Island. This follows State Highway 35, commonly known as the Pacific Coast Highway. The route takes in the easternmost point in New Zealand and starts at the Bay of Plenty town of Opotiki, ultimately leading to Gisborne City in Poverty Bay. This article describes the first leg of the trip, from Opotiki to Whangaparaoa Bay, covering a distance of approximately 120km.
Nelson, situated at the forefront of New Zealand’s South Island, often claims the title of the country’s sunniest city. Sunseekers, outdoor enthusiasts, food lovers, and culture aficionados flock to Nelson for its harmonious blend of accessible mountains and beaches. This charming city boasts a relaxed atmosphere alongside innovative dining and shopping options. Moreover, the proximity of three of New Zealand’s 13 national parks makes it an ideal base for adventures in the “top of the south.” Nelson attracts both international and domestic travelers year-round, although it sees a significant rise in visitors during the summer months from December to February. Nevertheless, its well-known sunny weather and access to ski fields also render it an attractive winter destination. Here are some of the best experiences to enjoy in and around Nelson throughout the year.
Australia may be a continent, but it is also an island, making it an excellent cruise destination for those seeking longer and more exotic trips. Moreover, if you are planning to visit Australia, don’t miss the opportunity to explore New Zealand. This smaller island nation, also located in the South Pacific, showcases stunning natural beauty and some of the friendliest people on earth. Consequently, many cruises often visit both Australia and New Zealand, but it is important to remember that both countries certainly deserve more time than just a few days!
New Zealand is well known for its wines, and there are a wide number of grape varieties planted throughout the country. While the major French varieties dominate, there has been increasing experimentation and success with other styles of wine. Here are the main grape varieties planted in New Zealand and a description of the types of wine they produce.
New Zealand’s North Island offers a multitude of activities and attractions that rival its southern counterpart, including stunning beaches, local wines, vibrant cities, and rich Maori culture. Explore the best things to do on the North Island for an unforgettable experience.
The kiwi, New Zealand’s national bird, can be hard to find in the wild. Deforestation and various predators have drastically reduced populations of this small nocturnal bird. However, you can still make spotting one a goal during your trip. Special “houses” around the country simulate the dark, damp conditions of their natural habitat, allowing visitors to glimpse this fascinating flightless bird. Most kiwi houses and sanctuaries operate active breeding and hatching programs while offering tours and valuable information about this enigmatic creature.
Aoraki Mount Cook is New Zealand’s highest mountain peak, soaring to a height of 3,754 meters. It serves as the focal point forAoraki Mount Cook National Park, located in the southern region of theUNESCO Heritage-listed area of South Island. This alpine wonderland is an exceptional destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers, featuring 20 mountain peaks exceeding 3,050 meters and an abundance of glaciers, including the renowned Franz Josef, Fox, and Tasman glaciers.
