Sunday, October 25, 2009

Travel To New Zealand: Top Spots

By Dorcas Chras

The land down under and to the left a bit is the stunningly beautiful archipelago of New Zealand. The native Maori call it Aotearoa, or the land of the long white cloud: we know it as New Zealand. This small and sparsely populated nation packs quite a punch in the travel stakes: from adventure sports to culture and cuisine. If you are planning to travel to New Zealand, you need to know the must sees and must dos.

New Zealand's travel hub is Auckland, so you will more than likely begin your trip here. While in Auckland book cruise of the Auckland Hauraki Gulf to see whales and dolphins frollicking in the wild in one of the world's most biologically diverse marine areas. Feeling brave? Strap on a harness and scale the Auckland Harbor Bridge on a climbing tour. This is a truly unique way to see the city and acts as a warm up to some of the other exciting activities that New Zealand has in store for you.

Think of the bridge climb as an appetizer for the adrenaline rush that is Queenstown. If you are an adventure lover, then this is your Mecca. Queenstown is in the business of serious fun. Here you can try bungee jumping, skiing, snowboarding, jet boating and many other activities not for the weak of stomach.

Just outside of Queenstown are some of the country's most famous wineries and there are several tours that will take you to sample the best that the vineyards have to offer. This is the perfect way to unwind after the rush of Queenstown or to gather your energies for another round of fun.

Leaving Queenstown travel through the gorgeous Otago landscape to Mt. Cook. This is New Zealand's tallest peak and it is best experienced by taking a helicopter tour to observe the beautiful scenery.

Maoris are the indigenous New Zealanders and they have retained their rich culture and heritage in the face of colonization by the British. While in New Zealand do not miss the opportunity to get acquainted with its indigenous culture.

In Christchurch you can have a very special Maori experience at Ko Tane. Located inside the Willowbank Nature Reserve, Ko Tane is a living Maori village set up just the way life was before the Europeans arrived. At Ko Tane you will receive a traditional Maori greeting ceremony and learn all about the rich and fascinating Maori culture.

On the northern island, Rotorua is the place to go to see some fierce geothermic activity in action. At the Wai Ora natural hot springs in Rotorua you can soak in the mineral mud baths and enjoy the healing powers of the spa that have been used by Maori people for around one thousand years.

With all its splendid natural beauty and thrilling sights and activities on offer, New Zealand is a great place to visit. Travel to New Zealand is a cheap holiday destination and its small size makes it easy to travel through. The land of the long white cloud is waiting to wish you "kia ora": don't miss your chance.

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