(Click a region for more details) |
|
| The South Pacific island nation of New Zealand is often described as a world in itself. Its two main islands span over 1000 miles and take in all types of climate from the sub-tropical balmy north to the sub-arctic, alpine south. Among the extraordinarily varied landscapes you will find here are lofty snow-dusted mountain ranges, sparkling lakes and rivers, rolling farmlands, steaming geothermal fields and lunar-like volcanic deserts. Along the coast, rugged cliffs and rocky headlands give way to sweeping black beaches, sheltered bays and coves fringed with gold and white powder sand and a turquoise sea. |
| Just about everywhere you go in New Zealand, you will be surprised and delighted by what you find - and it’s not just about nature. The cities are a sensible size, yet are brimming with culture and excitement; the people are friendly and welcoming to visitors and the country is easy and safe to travel around, even if you are on your own.
When the Maori first set eyes on the islands, about 1000 years ago, they called them Aotearoa – ‘the land of the long white cloud’. Maori culture and legends are still revered and visitors can join in traditional events and listen to song and dance. With the arrival of European whalers, gold miners, farmers and fortune seekers in the nineteenth century and the signing of the 1840 Treaty of Waitangi, between the British and the Maori chiefs, a modern multi-racial nation was founded.
There is always a down side to every holiday destination – with New Zealand you may find that you just don’t want to leave the place! It also has to be said that even in this age of fast air travel, New Zealand is still a long way away. Which is all the more reason to stay longer if you need an excuse that is.
|
|
|
 |
| © Tourism New Zealand |
 Please contact our office on 01737 218 800 for a tailor-made quotation on any of our holidays... |
|
|
Northland