Tuesday, September 11, 2012

Why Is New Zealand Travel So Popular

By Kerri Turner


A magical country at the edge of the world, New Zealand travel is actually very accessible, despite the nation's apparent remoteness. The 'Shaky isles', as the two main islands which make up the country are sometimes nicknamed, offer visitors and residents a massive amount of activities to enjoy and fascinating sights to see. Aotearoa, as the native Maori call it, is well worth a visit, however far away from it you are.

The country is especially well known for the natural attractions it can provide, its wildlife, landscape and coastline. The views are quite spectacular in New Zealand, as anyone who saw the film series based on the 'Lord of the Rings' will testify. Volcanic plateaux, native forests, glaciers, rich farmland and towering fjords can all be seen by the traveller in these islands.

The east coast has some picturesque white sand beaches, which are idyllic in their accessible beauty. In contrast, the sands of the beaches on the west coast of the country glisten with a black sand. The climate varies too, with the sub-tropical temperatures of the Bay of Islands in the north of the country contrasting with the chilly and often frosty temperatures of locations in the south such as Fjordland.

Many people enjoy outdoor activities in New Zealand, and visitors are often drawn to the nation to enjoy some of the best outdoor conditions in the world. Hikers, campers, skiers and cyclists can find plenty of places to practice their sports. Fisherman, sailors and water sports people of all kinds will revel in the conditions at the coast.

There are also some modern and vibrant cities to visit, complementing the range of rural attractions on offer. Auckland is an industrial city on the North Island, with its most famous building the Sky Tower, the Southern Hemisphere's tallest building currently. The Maori heritage in this city is strong too, and there are a number of Maori 'pas' or forts which can be visited in close proximity to the city.

Bay of Plenty also has much to offer to visitors as a region. The McLaren Falls Park offers some really breathtaking views, while in Te Puke is a theme park with a difference, celebrating the kiwi fruit. Bird lovers will love to spend time at Ohiwa Harbour, where many thousands of migratory birds congregate at different times of year.

The area surrounding Canterbury and Christchurch is one of the South Island's major attractions. Visitors of a scientific bent may well enjoy a trip to the International Antarctic Centre here, while others will want to explore the wine country around Waipara Valley. If you are feeling romantic, a hot air balloon ride across the Canterbury Plains is likely to thrill you.

New Zealand travel is bound to throw up many once in a lifetime experiences which cannot be replicated elsewhere. Whether on its North or South Island, Aotearoa is a small country which feels massive, and offers a massive range of things to see and do as well. Head to the Land of the Long White cloud and you might well never want to come home.




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