|
|
|
|
for North Island car hire
|
|
| |
Despite its remote location, New Zealand is a very popular destination for those who love the outdoors. Blessed with abundant natural scenery, the country also includes cosmopolitan cities and is renown for its laid back, friendly people.
Auckland is the country's largest city and is spread over two vast bays, effectively facing both east and west coasts. It's a vibrant modern city punctuated by curious volcanic mounds. The best views are from the Skytower, while the bustling America's Cup yacht basin on the waterfront is lively and a good place for delving into the country's important maritime history as well as for going sailing in the lovely Hauraki Gulf.
North of Auckland is the beautiful Bay of Islands, including the historic locations of Waitangi and Russell. Also rewarding is the Coromandel Coast, east of Auckland, covered in verdant forest and blessed with fantastic private beaches.
The geysers and bizarre volcanic landscapes of Rotorua attract the crowds, and this is the best place to experience the country's unique Maori culture. Further south, Lake Taupo is a legendary trout fishing lake situated in a massive extinct caldera. People also come here to tackle the spectacular Tongariro crossing - New Zealand's finest one-day hike (into a collapsed volcanic crater).
Wellington, the nation's capital, also enjoys a stunning location tucked away in Wellington harbour. It's a quaint and friendly 'town' with plenty of activity around Cuba Street Mall. There are good views from the elevated Botanical Gardens and Mount Victoria. Oriental Bay is good for accommodation.
New Zealand is pretty remote and most flights arrive in Auckland or Christchurch via Australia or Fiji/Hawaii. The country is, however, well serviced by airlines from Europe, Asia and North America.
More details on New Zealand's South Island.
www.tourism.net.nz/attractions/
|
| |
 |
| for North Island car hire
|
| |
| |
