New Zealand is a promising country situated in the south western part of the Pacific Ocean and nearly 2000 kilometers southeast of Australia. The earliest people who settled in this land were Polynesians and Maoris. Today, New Zealand is a constitutional monarchy headed by Queen Elizabeth II.
Travelers who would like to visit New Zealand are in for a great adventure. There are several impressive landscapes and natural wonders such as rivers and mountains to be explored. Many movie productions, most notably the Lord of the Rings trilogy, have made New Zealand as the background for their films.
Anytime of the year is a good time to visit New Zealand. If you prefer visiting during the warmer season try going during December to February. If you prefer the winter season then try going during June to August. Temperatures vary during the summer months from 15 to 32 degrees (Celsius) and 5 to 18 degrees in winter. If you are coming from a country with visa agreements with New Zealand then you do not need to apply for a visitor’s visa if you intend to stay less than 3 months.
Most of the time, visitors would make the city of Auckland, New Zealand’s largest city, as their entry point to New Zealand. This city, also known as the City of Sails, is a melting pot of various cultures such European, Asian, Maori and South Pacific. A must see attraction in Auckland is the Kelly Tarlton Underwater World. Visitors are treated to a long tunnel in which huge tanks of various fishes and marine life can be viewed.
For those who would like to enjoy water activities, then head out to the Bay of Islands. The Bay of Islands is a group of 144 islands located in the northern region of New Zealand. If you are into fishing and sailing then this is the place to go since it is famous internationally for its big-game fishing. If you are the type of person who would just like to relax on the sand then worry not. There are a lot of beaches in the area where you could just stroll or lie down while enjoying the sun.
To experience all of the best that New Zealand has to offer, head out to the city of Rotorua. This city located on the southern shore of New Zealand’s Northern Island is well known for its geothermal activity. There are several geysers and hot mud pools within the city. Aside from this, there are also 6 lakes which you could visit, mountain bike trails, trout fishing and forest walking trails. It is also in this city where you would experience the real Maori culture.
The food in New Zealand is influenced by European, Polynesian and Asian cultures. These influences have created a distinct New Zealand cuisine based mostly on seafood such as salmon, lobsters, oysters, mussels and meat such as lamb and pork. Don’t miss out on the Maori Hangi. It is often prepared during special occasions. This feast is prepared by digging a deep hole on the ground, usually done by men. The women then prepare the food that go in it which comprises of chicken, lamb or pork which is layered with vegetables.
When it’s time to leave New Zealand and go back home, you would come to miss this place. So the next time you plan a vacation, try out New Zealand.
