Traveling in New Zealand
Dunedin Train Station, Dunedin, New Zealand
New Zealand offers some of the most dramatic and impressive landscape on Earth. The geography is very diverse and the natural beauty is breathtaking. You'll find jagged mountains, clear lakes, and steep fiords, all within a short distance of each other. Most visitors come to the area to explore this natural beauty, and the country continues to grow in popularity with tourists. Made more famous by the popular movie series, "Lord of the Rings", New Zealand's stunningly beautiful natural setting is matched by no other.
You'll also find countless opportunities to enjoy adventure sports, with an absolutely stunning vista as your backdrop. There are incredible treks where you can wander deep into the wilderness. You can raft or kayak through some of the most swift rivers, and you can go climbing on some of the most incredible rocks. If you're really looking for an adrenaline rush you can try your hand at bungy jumping, caving, or ice climbing. If you're an outdoor enthusiast, you'll rarely find a place that has more to offer than New Zealand.
Once you've had your fill of the adventure sports you can head to the cities and relax at a local pub. Auckland is a great place to spend a few days. Some of the more popular areas include the Viaduct Harbour and Mission Bay, but you'll also find plenty of museums, restaurants, and bars nearby. Christchurch is popular because of its English character, which you can see in the architecture and layout of the city.
The Maori culture offers a unique influence over the area. You may hear the language spoken in the far northern parts of the North Island. There is also a traditional cuisine that you should try if you have the opportunity. Food is typically prepared in a hangi, or earthen oven, during festivals or large gatherings. Meat, vegetables and puddings are slow cooked in a covered pit for several hours before they are served to guests. It's a great experience if you have the opportunity to participate in this traditional custom.
At A Glance
- The largest airports in New Zealand are in Auckland and Christchurch. Auckland is served by the most international flights with over twenty destinations reached by twelve different airlines. Christchurch has flights to Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Buenos Aires, Santiago de Chile and Tokyo. Flying to New Zealand can be expensive so it is best to research all of your options in advance before booking your tickets. You'll usually get the best rate if you make reservations well in advance.
- New Zealand has very strict biosecurity laws. Make sure you fully understand what you are and are not allowed to bring into the country, and make sure you declare all items that are required by customs officials. Food and agricultural products are strictly regulated, so if you have any souvenirs with you from other countries, make sure that you fully understand the entry requirements.
- There are several tourist oriented bus companies within New Zealand. They provide transportation to many areas throughout the country, but even so, you will find having access to your own vehicle more convenient and enjoyable. With a private car you can access the more remote and interesting parts of the country (car rental/hire prices here). The more popular tourist bus companies include Flying Kiwi Adventure, InterCity Coachlines, and Naked Bus, which is typically the cheapest option.
- There are ferries that connect the North and South Islands. If you're traveling with a car you can take the ferry that runs between Wellington and Picton. Don't be surprised if there are unexpected delays due to weather or scheduling challenges.
- You can't go to New Zealand without attempting at least one adventure sport. There are the more traditional options available, like bungie jumping, sky diving, or kite surfing, and then there are more creating activities like heli-hiking, shark cage diving, and fly by wire. Pick an activity and give it a go before you leave. These activities can be expensive and a little risky so do some research and make sure you go through a reputable company before you sign up.
Related
Looking for a party in Auckland or at one of the Base Hostels in New Zealand?Traveling alone or with a group?
Top Tourist Attractions
Waiotapu Thermal Wonderland: Located at the southern end of the Okataina Volcanic Centre, this is an attractive and impressive mix of mud pools, geysers, bubbling lakes, and steamy terraces. It has many hot springs and is most noted for its colorful appearance.
Tongariro National Park: This national park, on the country's North Island, is created by three volcanoes. Ruapehu, Ngauruhoe, and Tongariro are all located in the center of the park. It's the oldest national park in the country and is a great place to either ski or hike.
Fiordland: Located in the southwest corner of the South Island, this area's geography is spectacular in appearance. It looks like it jumped off the screen of "Lord of the Rings," and is an absolute must see in the region. The snow-capped Alps are dramatic and breathtaking and the deep lakes are strikingly blue in color.
New Zealand offers plenty more to see and do. If you've never been to the country, check out this terrific guide to New Zealand for first time visitors which covers everything from getting around to activities.
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