New Zealand's attractions are as diverse as its unique and stunning natural landscape. Its rich cultural and historical heritage presents a diverse range of attractions to the visitors. Whether you are looking for excitement, historical interest, cultural enrichment or just plain fun you will find it in copious here.

New Zealand offers the most amazing range of travel experiences to be found anywhere in the world. New Zealand is accessible, spread over three relatively small islands with modern and efficient transport, quiet roads, plenty of flights and two stunningly scenic rail journeys. Other pluses are friendly, English-speaking people, virtually no crime, and a trio of rich cultural influences - adventurous Polynesian navigators (Maori), pioneering European settlers who followed a thousand years later, and modern Pacific Rim immigrants.

Enjoy the chance to explore two of the richest New-World wine regions on the planet, taste wonderful cuisine, stroll on moody beaches, tramp through the national parks or over alpine passes. Try bungee jumping, caving or whitewater rafting: you can ski or snowboard on eerily quiet world-class slopes, scuba dive in unique color-filled marine reserves, sail on exciting waters or meander tournament-class golf courses.

Geography of New Zealand
New Zealand consists of two large islands, North Island and South Island, plus several smaller ones of which Stewart Island is the largest and often referred to as 'our third island'. North and South Islands are separated by the Cook Strait which is 32km wide. To the north and east lies the Pacific Ocean. The total land area of New Zealand is 270,535 sq. Km which is about the size of Italy, the United Kingdom or the US state of Colorado.

Waikato is the longest river on the North Island where as the largest inland stretch of water is Lake Taupo also on the same island. Land use is broken down to approximately: forested 30% - meadows and pastures 50% - agricultural and under permanent cultivation 15% . Sheep and cattle graze on the rich farmland around Hamilton and New Plymouth in North Island and around Dunedin and Invercargill on South Island.

North Island is volcanically active with a central plateau. South Island has the high snow covered mountain peaks and glaciers of the Southern Alps, a range running almost 500Km along the Island.

Locations of New Zealand
New Zealand is in the Southern Hemisphere, lying between 34 and 46 degrees of South latitude in the Pacific Ocean. This puts New Zealand at about the same distance from the equator as Spain or California. Australia being the nearest neighboring country which is 1500 Km to the west and the frozen desert continent of Antarctica lies 2200 Km South, of the Southern Ocean.

Climate of New Zealand
New Zealand's seasons are opposite those in the Northern Hemisphere. The North Island is warmer than the South Island by at least 10 degrees F/5 C year round. Auckland always has fairly mild temperatures. Our favorite months are mid September through October, when the flowers and the apple trees and dogwoods are in bloom. There's skiing July-September on the South Island; the weather on top of the mountains can be very cold, so bring winter coats and rain gear if you'll be spending much time there. Take a sweater year round.

Culture of New Zealand
New Zealand's culture is a perfect mosaic of culture. They have a fine blend of rich and diverse Polynesian and European cultures. The influence of Maori, Pacific Island, European and Asian cultures makes New Zealand a colorful and vibrant place with many different customs and food to enjoy. The people of this small island nation are sports lovers and are famous all over the world for things like bungy jumping, rugby, kiwifruit, sheep and our beautiful scenery.

Glance Of New Zealand History
There are several theories relating to the original settlement of New Zealand, however the most them agreed that New Zealand was first settled at least 1000 years ago by the Polynesian Maoris, a well-ordered tribal society led by hereditary chiefs and a powerful priesthood.

The first European arrival was the Dutchman Abel Tasman in 1642, but it was not until the voyages of Captain James Cook in 1769 and 1779 that the islands were charted and explored by Europeans. The vessel Captain Cook first arrived on was "Endeavour" British settlers began to emigrate after British sovereignty was established in 1840, and Wellington was founded soon afterwards.

New Zealand as granted internal self-government in 1852, and the later years of the century saw a rapid growth in investment, communications and agricultural production. In 1893, New Zealand became the first country in the world to give adult franchise to women and in 1907 New Zealand became a Dominion.

Auckland
Nestled amongst the bush clad hills, nice beaches and some idyllic holiday homes is the Auckland city, located on a spectacular harbor which contains many islands. It has a population of over 1.2 million. The island is accessible from downtown Auckland by a 20 minute ferry ride, which transports you from the busy city, to an island that is continually in holiday mode. Other islands in the harbor or further out in the Hauraki Gulf include Great Barrier Island, Little Barrier Island and Rangitoto Island. Rangitoto is a famous Auckland landmark, and can be seen from many vantage points in the city.

Auckland Known as the City of Sails host worlds oldest and the most elite yachting competition in the world. The people of Auckland are known for their sailing prowess. Auckland has more boats per person than anywhere in the world, which could explain why they currently hold the Americas Cup.

The Auckland Region is also volcanic in nature. There are 100's of extinct volcanoes that dominate the landscape, and provide some great views of this region. Fortunately the last volcanic eruption was over 600 years ago.

Waimate, Centre of the South
Waimate, Centre of the South, is popular for its Edwardian buildings lining the main street of this charming peaceful country town. Waimate is a Centre for farming, forestry and berry fruits. A major attraction to the area is the red necked or brush wallaby. They can be seen in parks around Waimate and in prolific numbers in the native bush and forestry hills behind the town. Many outdoor enthusiasts are lured to the Waimate district to enjoy the excellent hunting and fishing. Hundreds of fishermen migrate to the Waitaki River every summer for the thrill of catching a trophy salmon. The lakes area is also popular for trout fishing.

Sky Tower, New Zealand
Start your Auckland experience at the top of the Sky Tower. At 328 meters, it's the tallest building in the Southern Hemisphere. Apart from a stunning view, the Sky Tower now offers you Sky Jump - the world's highest tower-based jump. It's a leap beyond description.

Vertigo, New Zealand
For those bravado who don't find their adrenaline in action while jumping from the Sky tower can try Vertigo, which is 100 mtrs further up that will scare the life out you. Vertigo' involves climbing up a ladder inside the radio antenna attached to the top of the tower and emerging on a tiny platform way up in the sky. Vertigo offers a fantastic view of Auckland.

Kelly Tarlton"s Underwater world and Antartic Encounter
For different view of Southern Hemisphere life, make a point of visiting Antarctica while you're in Auckland. At Kelly Tarlton's Antarctic Encounter and Underwater World you can meet King and Gentoo Penguins in a world of real snow and ice. You'll also walk through enormous perspex tubes while sharks, fish and stingrays of every description swim around you. Auckland Zoo's Sealion and Penguin Shores gives you a similar close encounter, except this time it's sealions whistling past your nose.

Experience fresh unique feeling each and every day ... welcome to Christchurch a place like nowhere else in the world. Excitement - relaxation - sunshine and snow - world class sporting and cultural events - wining, dining and accommodation - unique attractions and activities - and all within Christchurch. You'll be glad you came ... and sad to leave.

The city of Christchurch is situated on the plains and is the biggest city in the region and South Island, and comes in as the third biggest city in New Zealand. Christchurch is reputably the most English looking city outside of England and the city certainly deserves this title.

Christchurch has many fine examples of old English buildings including the Cathedral in the main square. The main river that winds its way through the city and suburbs, just happens to be called the Avon. The climate is similar to England too, with four pronounced seasons and the vegetation includes trees that were brought over from England including Weeping Willows, Oak and Chestnut trees. The close proximity of the Southern Alps to the west means that there is a gala time awaiting all those skiing enthusiast.

Botanic Gardens
Christchurch's reputation as the Garden City is truly reflected in the Botanic Gardens. Undoubtedly the finest collection of exotic and indigenous plants found anywhere in New Zealand, the Gardens provide spectacular displays all year round. You can't help but be impressed with the large majestic trees and sweeping lawns providing a wonderful backdrop to feature gardens including rock, water, rose and herb gardens.

Robert McDougall Art Gallery
It is located in the Botanic Gardens, the Robert McDougall is Christchurch's public art museum which is the current home of Christchurch's public art collection, including international and New Zealand historical and contemporary pieces.

Canterbury Museum
Canterbury Museum is renowned for having some of the finest cultural and natural collections in New Zealand, as well as for its creative and imaginative displays. Housed in one of Christchurch's finest historic buildings, Canterbury Museum has world class displays of geology, zoology, Maori, Asian and European collections. Enjoy a rest in the delightful Museum Cafe overlooking the Botanic Gardens, or browse around the Museum Store. Include a visit to the nearby Botanic Gardens and the Arts Centre.

Wellington city is the worlds most southerly capital which is built on the shores of a spectacular harbor and the suburbs sit on the surrounding hills. Wellington is also called the windy city, and even though that title is well deserved, it must be noted that the windy seasons are Winter and Spring, but Summer and Autumn have many fine still days. The highest wind gust this year for example was recorded at 169 Km/h. The city offers all the facilities and advantages of a vibrant city, yet it is very easy to escape to some remote areas of coastline, bush and mountain terrain. Wellington city is lively and has great shopping, restaurants, theatre and bustling nightlife. It is also known as the art capital of New Zealand as there are many fine Art Galleries. Many festivals are held each year, including the Wine and Food Festival and the Dragon Boating Festival.

Wellington Botanic Gardens
Over 26 hectares of specialist gardens, native bush and lawn areas. Located in the garden are: the Education and Environment Centre in the aptly named Treehouse; the Lady Norwood Rose Garden, with over 106 formal beds; the Begonia House; the Bolton Street Memorial Park, where many of the city's pioneers are buried; the Carter Observatory, New Zealand's national astronomy centre; the Sundial of Human Involvement and a great adventure playground. Garden tours are available by prior booking or prior request.

Martinborough
Martinborough is a typical small town just an hour drive from Wellington. It's the first wine Centre with 20 pinot noirs to sample. And its you will be testing the wine after which you will be provided with a handy comment cards to write your thoughts on the wine you have tasted. You're free to walk some of the 26 wine trails in the area or take the more traditional mode of transport, a horse and cart.

Te Papa Museum
It's a very pleasant space, and is free to get in. It's not only an interactive guide to New Zealand tradition, but also gives you a taster of some of the places you may visit on the road.

Bay of Islands
Bay of Islands is where Captain Cook and the first British immigrants settled. Visitors to Maori sacred grounds can still observe the traditional welcome that would have greeted Captain Cook and his men and not only that you too will be welcome in the same fashion.