How To Select A Good Car Hire For Travel Around New Zealand

Author: timothy

Source: articledashboard.com



Touring around naturally beautiful New Zealand by car is an exciting experience. You can hire your car from Auckland when you are in North Island. When you are in South Island, Christchurch is the place to hire your car rental. Travelling around New Zealand by car needs a few important things to be borne in mind before you plan one. We have highlighted a few important points pertaining to New Zealand car hire.

Is your car hire reliable?
Make sure your car hire is reliable by checking to see if the car rental company includes 24 hour AA (Automobile Association) roadside assistance. AA is a not-for-profit organisation which takes care of vehicle breakdowns giving you complete peace of mind when you travel around New Zealand. Does your car rental meet your needs?
Ensure that the car rental you intend to book meets your needs. When you contact the supplier, be specific about the model of the car you are looking for and your budget. Your supplier will have a wide range of cars to hire at different budgets, luxury levels and number of travellers the car is suited for.

Are you under the age of 21?
If you are below 21 years of age, it is VITAL to ensure that the car rental company you are using will permit you to drive the car. Most car hire companies in New Zealand prescribe 21 years as the minimum age to hire a car. So, ensure that your car rental company allows you to rent a car and check if there are any associated surcharges.

What is included in the car rate that you pay per day?
You must carefully check what is included with the daily rate you pay for your car rental. Make sure you contact your car hire company to find out the inclusions and the exclusions in the daily rate.

Do you need special requirements like baby seat etc?
If you are travelling with your baby, ensure that a baby seat can be fitted in the car that you are hiring. In addition, most car rental companies hire out baby seats.

Do you know the size of the car you need?
Be very careful in choosing the size of the car you are looking to rent. Be very specific on what type of car you are looking to hire.

Do you need a ferry service to transport your car?
If your tour of New Zealand covers both the North Island and South Island, you must make sure of your car hire company's policy on the ferry crossing between the islands. Some car rental companies have depots on either island (Wellington on North Island and Picton on South Island). Some companies do not and this means you have to take your car on the ferry. From travel experience, it is easier to take your vehicle on the ferry to the other side instead of giving up your vehicle on one side, travel to the other side, transfer your luggage to the new vehicle and do up new contracts.
At Ezy, we ensure that you, our valued customer, comes first and gets the best out of our car hire service to have the most memorable trip around New zealand. The highlights of our car rental service are:

• Ezy is a registered member of AA. In addition, Ezy offers a 24 hour replacement vehicle policy. If the vehicle cannot be repaired within 24 hours, Ezy will deliver a new vehicle within 24 hours.

• Ezy are a prominent 2nd tier company in New Zealand car rental industry and their great rates reflect this. They also offer a range of car hire ranging from cheap car rentals to luxury cars and 1st tier cars to suit special needs of clients.

• Ezy Rentals hires cars to 18 years+. In this case, the hire rates remain unchanged. It is the insurance excess that is slightly higher.

• Ezy car hire rates are inclusive of standard insurance, Goods and Sevices tax or GST and free 24 hour roadside assistance from AA.

• Ezy rentals offer a wide range of vehicles with baby bolts fitted so that baby
seats can be attached securely and safely. Ezy also hires out 3 different sized
baby seats and boosters to ensure that your child fits into it perfectly.

• Ezy Rentals has a wide variety of cars on offer from small hatchbacks to large sedans, station wagons and people movers

• Ezy Rentals does not have offices on either side. Hence it is best to take the car on the ferry. This makes it easy for the client. Ezy offers discounted ferry rates for its clients.

Ezy Rentals is a market leader in the 2nd tier segment of the New Zealand car hire industry with branches in Auckland and Christchurch. We have earned our reputation as a clean and honest car hire company in the New Zealand tourism industry. We are sure that you will not be disappointed with our high level of service and our car hire prices.

Courtesy: Tim Alpe
CEO
Ezy Rentals
http://www.ezy.co.nz
Email: tim@ezy.co.nz
We make your New Zealand trip by car EZY

30 Commonly Used Kiwi Slangs in New Zealand - Come in Handy for Your Daily Chats

Author: Doris Chow

Source: ezinearticles.com



Every country has their commonly used slang, and New Zealand is no exception. The first time I heard 'Sweet as' was on my first day in New Zealand, I was amused and wondered what it meant. Another time, I read the term 'backyard barbie' in the newspaper, and guess what, the image of a life-sized barbie doll in a garden appeared in my head. There are heaps more, but I listed only 30 common ones which can be handy for your daily chats, at least in the first few days.

Arvo - Short form for afternoon. E.g. meet you tomorrow arvo at 4(pm).

Ay/Eh - Used at the end of the sentence or a substitute of 'pardon' or 'what'. E.g. we should go Auckland this weekend ay.

Bach (pronounce as batch) - Holiday home. E.g. we stay at the bach at Whangaparaoa Peninsula during summer.

Barbie - Short form for barbeque. E.g. I am having a barbie at my backyard tomorrow, do you want to join us?

Brekkie - Short form for breakfast. E.g. shall we go for brekkie now?

Cheers/Cheerio - Thanks and/or goodbye. E.g. A: The train departure time is at 1pm. B: Cheers

Chips - Refer more commonly to French fries. E.g. Please help me to get some chips from the takeaway on your way back.

Dairy - 'Corner' store selling convenient food 7 days a week, a little like neighbourhood 7-11. E.g. I am going to the dairy to get some snacks, do you want anything?

Do - Sometimes refer to party or gathering. E.g. we are having our Christmas do on 20 December.

Dodgy - Describe something bad, unreliable, spoiled, strange, etc. E.g. that guy standing at the corner is dodgy. The food smells dodgy.

Dunny - Refer to the toilet, bathroom, lavatory. E.g. we have an outdoor dunny in our farm house.

Flash/Flashy - Describe something that looks very good and/or expensive. E.g. Flash car you've got there ay.

Gimme a yell - Means 'let me know', not yelling literally. E.g. If you have any questions about your assignment, just gimme a yell.

Gummies - Refer to gumboots, rubber boots, wellingtons, wellies. E.g. You need to wear your gummies if you are going to the paddock.

Jandals - Flip-flops or thongs. E.g. let me grab my jandals and we can go.

Jersey/Jumper - More frequently refer to sweater. E.g. let me get my jumper/jersey and we can head out now.

Lolly - Candy, sweets. E.g. I bought some lollies just now, want some?

Mate - Can mean buddy, friend or stanger. E.g. I am meeting my mates to go for dinner soon. Hey mate, where are you going?

Nana and Nandy - Grandmother and Grandfather. E.g. I am spending the weekend at my nana's place.

Paddock - Frequently refer to farmlands and fields. E.g. the cows are grazing at the paddock behind the hill.

Rellies - Family and relatives. E.g. My rellies are going to the bach for the weekend.

Scull - Drink beer rapidly. E.g. he is sculling down the beer.

Smoko - Break time, rest period. E.g. our afternoon smoko is at 3pm daily.

Sunnies - Short form for sunglasses. E.g. I can't drive properly without my sunnies.

Sweet as - Can mean cool or awesome. E.g. A: Shall we go to town tonight? B: Sure thing, mate. A: Sweet as. See you later.

Ta - Informal term for thanks. E.g. A: Here's the book. B: Ta. A: Sweet as.

Tea - Usually refer to evening meal or dinner. E.g. shall we meet at 7pm for tea at Nandos?

Toastie - Toasted sandwich or bread. E.g. I am making egg toastie for lunch, do you want one?

Togs - Swimsuit, bathing suit. E.g. remember to bring your togs and jandals for the weekend at the beach.

Wonky - Faulty, twisted, misaligned. E.g. That chair is wonky, you better get another one.

Copyright 2010 Doris Chow

About the Author: Doris Chow is an blogger on http://www.FunNewZealandTravel.com. The blog shares about Doris' experiences and lessons learnt in her 3-year stay in New Zealand.

Queenstown New Zealand - A Great Resort During Every Season

Author: Paul J Easton

Source: ezinearticles.com



Imagine a place which you can enjoy equally all year round. You probably find this hard to do, but not if you have been to Queenstown, New Zealand. It is one of the country's most renowned mountain resorts. Is situated on the shores of the gorgeous Lake Wanaka and is surrounded by high mountain peaks. Its natural characteristics make Queenstown the perfect vacation place during the winter, spring, summer and autumn.

Queenstown is one of the most popular ski and snowboarding destinations in New Zealand. The temperature during the winter season, from June to September, rarely rises above 46 degrees F (8 degrees C). This guarantees that you can enjoy the most amazing skiing experience on the mile long ski slopes all day long during the entire winter season. Queenstown is not only a paradise for skiers and snowboarders. If you are up to an even more exciting adventure, you can readily try ice-climbing or riding a snowmobile. Those who are not fans of the snow and ice can readily enjoy a day soaking in a hot spa pool and getting the most relaxing treatments.

In spring, which lasts from September to December, you can enjoy the vibrant colors of the natural landscape in the Queenstown area. You can go mountain biking or hiking to get a taste of the true beauty of this mountain and lake region. A boat ride on the lake is an excellent way to spend a relaxing day. You can go canoeing, kayaking or fishing or play golf. If you are more into adventure, you should not hesitate to go bungy jumping, whitewater rafting or enjoy an exclusive jet boating trip.

You can enjoy great sunbaths in Queenstown during the summer, from December to March. The temperatures are warm enough, but you will never get to suffer from a great heat. You can readily enjoy a relaxing day on the beach and take a swim in the crystal clear waters of the lake. The summer is a great time to do all the outdoor sports activities and explore the great natural surrounding Queenstown has to offer. It is definitely a good idea to go hiking and to camp in the mountains.

The relatively warm autumn, between March and June, is full of color in Queenstown. This is a great time to enjoy mountain biking and to take walks near the lake and in the mountain. If the weather outside is chilly, you can readily enjoy a day at the spa or send time wine tasting.

Short Rates.com provide Last Minute Cheap Auckland Hotels and Wellington Hotels Accommodation across New Zealand everywhere from the Bay of Islands, to Rotorua, Queenstown and the Deep South.

New Zealand Walking - Seeing Things As They Are

Author: Tony Maniscalco

Source: ezinearticles.com



Few would dispute that New Zealand offers a unique and beautiful countryside coupled with a fascinating history and culture. One of the ways to best see it is through a New Zealand walking holiday.

What's there to see?

New Zealand is often described in terms of its two main islands. Many areas of the North Island have a distinctive 'Pacific Island' feel with beautiful beaches, luscious flora and a volcanic appearance to much of the countryside. It is home to the bulk of New Zealand's population and is proud of its multi-cultural status, and has a strong Maori legacy and presence. Auckland and Wellington are two major cities well worth exploring, as is Napier. Rotorua is world-famous for its geysers, hot steam vents and bubbling mud pools. The Bay of Islands contains marvellous opportunities for exploring the multitude of islets and sandy coves. Not to be missed also is the Tongariro National Park which contains stunning scenery.

The South Island is different! Much more sparsely populated, the island contains a vast range of natural spectacles including mountains, glaciers and fjords. It is home to the Southern Alps and some of the world's most breathtaking views of mountains, lakes and coastlines. The largest town is Christchurch and other major attractions include Mount Cook with its alpine scenery; Te Anau with its fjords; Queenstown with its scenery and adventure leisure opportunities; and the Fox and Franz Joseph glaciers. It's also an ideal opportunity to see a wide variety of wildlife; including exotic birds such as the Albatross; and around the coastal areas, whales, dolphins and seals.

Both the North and South Islands received rave reviews for their stunning scenery when it was seen around the globe as the backdrop to the Lord of the Rings film trilogy. All these attractions are just a tiny sample of what a New Zealand walking holiday may be able to help you explore.

Why take a New Zealand walking holiday?

New Zealand is a beautiful country that has worked hard to keep its natural grandeur intact.

There are vast areas of nature that are relatively undeveloped and unspoilt by large-scale human encroachment. In some cases the only way to reach these magnificent sights is on foot. In other instances, you'll be more likely to appreciate the locations 'in context' if you've walked to them. New Zealand walking holidays in general are also becoming more popular for environmental reasons; and if you need yet more convincing, they may also be better for your general health!

How does the holiday work?

A New Zealand walking holiday is fully guided by a tour leader that is an expert in the route and the attractions as well as the local history and culture. They are constructed for those with only a moderate degree of fitness and walking ability. It is a carefully and expertly crafted holiday experience and not a forced route march - so no need to worry if you don't come into the 'superfit' category! Each guided walk is carefully planned to ensure that it is not overly demanding and that it concludes each day with the opportunity to relax and unwind in excellent accommodation. You can sample the excellent local cuisines while you reflect upon the sights you've seen during the day.

The holidays offer a variety of choices. So you may wish to be based in a single centre or to vary between different locations. You can decide to explore only one of the major islands or spend time or both. That is one of the major attractions of a New Zealand walking holiday - you can select an option that suits your interests and then with the help of your tour guide, follow it. It really can be a different and more satisfying sort of holiday.

Tony Maniscalco is the Sales and Marketing Manager for Ramblers Worldwide Holidays. Operating since 1946, they now offer over 250 guided group walking holidays in more than 90 different countries. While in New Zealand walking with Ramblers Worldwide Holidays, you can see the most scenic locations & landscapes at the best value prices.

How to Take a Driving Trip Through New Zealand

Author: Max Cowen

Source: ezinearticles.com



If you are planning a holiday to New Zealand then there are number of travel companies that will offer you some great New Zealand travel packages. You can back pack through the country, or hire a car or even undertake a motor home rental. Don t forget to pack your sense of adventure as that is the true way to see New Zealand. We think one of the best ways to see New Zealand is to drive yourself around. Be your own boss and follow your own itenary, now who wouldnt want to do that? While driving you can visit Rotorua on the North Island or visit one of the many vineyards, you could stop to go whale watching or dig into some yummy sea food at Kaiokoura on the South Island. These are just a few things you can include into yourself drive holiday but before you do so there is some planning to be done.

1. First you need to understand the way the Kiwis drive. They drive on the left hand side of the road in right hand drive vehicles. It can be a bit disconcerting initially, but you will soon get used to it. To hire a car you need to have a valid New Zealand, Australian or an International Driver s license in English and you need to be of 21 years minimum. Wearing a seatbelt is compulsory and no drinking and driving!

2. Insurance is a must. Make sure that you confirm all the insurance details and check if they are valid in New Zealand. Most car rental companies quote a basic coverage amount, but it is better to have an additional personal coverage so that you are taken care of in case of a mishap.

3. It is advisable that you plan for a lot of time in between the destinations as even though New Zealand has well maintained roads they are sometimes narrow and winding. Also if it is raining it can be slick and risky. Try and drive only mostly in the daytime to be on the safer side. Make sure that your car tyres are equipped with chains during winter on the South Island Roads.

4. A trip to the Information Center is advisable. You will get a wealth of information about what to do, where to go, what to see and how to get there. There are special maps formulated for people who want to hire a car in New Zealand for their holidays. Many centers also have internet facilities and bathroom facilities, which I am sure you will require.

5. You will need to book the ferry much in advance of your trip if you are going to travel from North Island to South Island. You can also take your car on board the ferry for an additional fee. You could also return your car and rent another one as soon as you reach your destination. If you are looking to hire a car in New Zealand then head to New Zealand Travels. For more information please visit them at http://www.newzealandtravel.com.au.

Max Cowen has been an avid traveller ever since his teenage. These days he likes to visit various ski resorts around the world and write about them for others to read. Please Visit http://www.newzealandtravel.com.au.

New Zealand Walking Holidays - North Versus South

Author: Tony Maniscalco

Source: ezinearticles.com



If you are looking for a place that offers some of the most diverse and exciting countryside in the world, you need look no further than New Zealand. From high mountains to icy glaciers, lush forests to breathtaking fjords, a New Zealand walking holiday will give you plenty of great landscapes to enjoy. The countryside was spectacularly showcased in the 'Lord of the Rings' trilogy, where it provided many of the locations for the films, and it is now taking its place as one of the world's most beautiful places to go walking.

Of course, New Zealand is actually two islands, the North and South, and each one has its own unique attractions. Here are a few of the possible destinations you'll want to consider on each of the islands...

Walking on the North Island

The North Island is also home to the major cities of New Zealand including Auckland, Napier, Hamilton and the capital Wellington. So if you want to combine your time in the countryside with a break in the city on a New Zealand walking holiday, the North Island is the place to be.

While the attractions of the South Island are perhaps more famous, the North Island still has plenty of natural beauty to offer its visitors. The most famous landscape on the North Island is Rotorua. The city of Rotorua itself is one of the oldest Maori settlements, and it is built on a highly geothermally active area - the city itself is built into an enormous volcanic caldera. The surrounding area is filled with geysers, mud pools, thermal springs, and spectacular lakes that are a joy to explore on foot.

The other major attraction of the North Island is Tongariro National Park. New Zealand's oldest national park (established in 1887) is significant, both for its striking landscapes and for its spiritual significance to the Maori people. The park is placed in the very centre of the North Island, and its mountains, volcanos, lava fields, scrublands and forests can all be explored on a variety of walking routes.

Walking on the South Island

The South Island is a paradise for those who love the great outdoors. Not only is it larger than the North Island, it also has only a quarter of New Zealand's population, making for large stretches of deserted landscape for you to get away from the crowds.

It is also home to perhaps the most dramatic landscapes in New Zealand. The colossal Fox Glacier is located on the west coast. Not only is it a stunning sight in its own right, this ice sheet has carved out some great walking country in the surrounding area. In particular, don't miss out on Lake Matheson, a crystal clear lake ringed by rainforest where New Zealand's two highest peaks, Mount Cook and Mount Tasman, are perfectly reflected in the water.

Elsewhere on the island, the hills of the Queenstown area will be instantly familiar to many - they were used for many of the outdoor locations in 'The Lord of the Rings'. It's a suitably epic landscape, providing excellent opportunities for hikers and a wide range of other adventure sports (such as skiing, mountain biking, and paragliding).

Finally, the Fjordland World Heritage Site provides some of the finest walking in New Zealand. If you base yourself in the pleasant town of Te Anau, all of the attractions in the region are within easy reach. These include the vertical cliffs and waterfalls of the Milford Sound, the serene beauty of the Doubtful Sound, the dramatic spectacle of Mitre Peak, and the stunning Lake Manapouri.

North or South - whichever island you choose to visit on a New Zealand walking holiday, you'll be treated to spectacular landscapes and great walking routes. And if you've got the time, make sure you visit them both...

Tony Maniscalco is the Sales and Marketing Manager for Ramblers Worldwide Holidays. Operating since 1946, Ramblers Worldwide Holidays now offer over 250 holidays in more than 90 different countries. On a New Zealand walking holiday with Ramblers you can walk the Canary Islands most scenic landscapes at the best value prices.

New Zealand Is For Lovers - Of Adventure, That Is: Travel To New Zealand

Author: Frank Johnson

Source: articledashboard.com



Although often times in the gigantic shadow of its Australian neighbor, New Zealand is worlds apart from any experience found elsewhere and it is geographically much farther southeast than most people imagine. New Zealand is a former British colony, with fascinating cultural influences due to its location in southern Polynesia. Large swaths of rolling green meadows, churning geysers, creaking glaciers, and never-ending stretches of magical overgrown beaches encourage travelers to make the long haul across oceans to indulge in the disarming natural beauty of New Zealand year after year.

New Zealand was one of the last landmasses to be inhabited, only discovered in 800 AD by Polynesian navigator Kupe. The discovery initiated a steady stream of migration from today's French Polynesia until Dutch Abel Tasman and finally James Cook came across the islands and claimed them for the British Crown, ruled from Australia. The native Maori people are still a considerable minority, enriching the cultural climate of the largely European (Pakeha) nation.

Cinematic Sanctuaries and Bungy* Jumping Buffs
New Zealand's geography is divided into two major north-south islands. Depending on where you travel and the time of year, the activities and topography will change dramatically. The South Island is famous for its unique relics of the last Ice Age, the Franz Joseph and Fox Glaciers, which plunge just below the islands tallest peak in the Southern Alps, Mount Cook. These glaciers are particularly spectacular because they continue to flow through temperate rainforest strikingly close to sea level. Winter in the Alps region is excellent for skiing, mountaineering and filmmaking - scenes from The Chronicles of Narnia were filmed here. For a thrilling wildlife experience, do not miss the South Island's Otago Peninsula where you can enjoy a cozy bed and breakfast among sea lion, sea elephant and penguin habitats, to name a few.

The North Island is relatively warmer during the summer and milder all year long. Put yourself 'on edge' with a trip to serene Lake Taupo, which also happens to fill the caldera of one of the largest super-volcanoes in the world. Extreme outdoor sports abound on both islands, as New Zealand is the original inventor of Bungy Jumping (also found at Lake Taupo) among other creatively dangerous activities. The west coasts are extremely popular for black water rafting, otherwise known as cave rafting. This exhilarating experience should not be missed, even by the beginner. If a new heart rate is not what you are looking for, make your leisurely way to Ninety Mile Beach at the very north end of the island; the name is not deceiving and the experience is absolute paradise in the summer months. The Great Barrier Island to the east is a mind blowing underwater experience for most scuba divers and an equally sensational getaway for the sand-bound.

New Zealand is a destination for all seasons, with activities spanning the elements and progressive cities to keep up with those of faster pace. Auckland, Wellington and Queenstown are all very youthful and spirited cities with the distinct eclecticism of New Zealand culture to overload the senses and invigorate the spirit. New Zealand may be far from most places in the world, but it is certainly worth any length of travel to reap the fruit of this nation's existence. Travel to New Zealand and experience it all for yourself.

Adventures To The End Of The Earth In Christchurch, New Zealand

Author: Rene Smith

Source: articledashboard.com



It may be at the end of the earth for many international travelers but in a lot of ways that's part of the reason it's so great. I can't guarantee that you'll run into pirates on your travels through Christchurch but I can assure you of a truly unforgettable experience.

Christchurch is in the heart of New Zealand's South Island, far removed from the overcrowded tourist hot spots of Europe, fighting in the Middle East and pollution in Asia. This is an area of rare beauty, offering visitors the chance to experience the snow capped ski fields of the Southern Alps one day and swim with dolphins the next.

New Zealand & Australia, aren't they the same place?

New Zealand is often linked hand in hand with Australia and while they share a lot of cultural similarities, there are huge differences when it comes to why you would visit either. Australia is a South Pacific getaway blessed with beautiful beaches, friendly people and a whole lot of nothing called the outback. New Zealand shares the friendly people but offers a different experience, rich in cultural history, adrenaline pumping adventure sport, spectacular sightseeing, memorable landscapes and unique wildlife.

Christchurch encapsulates all things good about New Zealand and serves them to you on a plate, a new and exciting attraction never more than a couple of hours away. If you've seen the Lord of the Rings movies then you might have noticed some of the amazing environments that cover the New Zealand's South Island. These were no CGI special effects; all these places are just a stone throw from Christchurch and can be part of an amazing vacation, holiday or tour. Be the envy of your friends as you showoff your vacation pictures with pride.

Christchurch sightseeing & attractions

Christchurch and the wider Canterbury region has a strong English heritage and much of this still remains in the city area. Visitors can enjoy a punt along the Avon River, a sightseeing experience on the Tramway or Gondola, a stroll through the majestic Hagley Park or delight in the wonderful Botanical Gardens. Christchurch is New Zealand's garden city and proudly displays this in the sheer number of beautiful gardens citywide.

New Zealand's unique location on the globe has led to Christchurch becoming the world's link to Antarctica. This amazing continent of frozen ice can be experienced from Christchurch's International Antarctic Centre. More than just learning about Antarctica, visitors can experience icy slopes, sheltering in an ice cave, braving an Antarctic storm and many more fun activities.

Venturing out of Christchurch, head towards the charming French influenced town of Akaroa. Just an hour's drive from Christchurch, Akaroa is located on the South Island's Banks Peninsula, an amazing area where numerous outdoor activities can be enjoyed year round. Kayak along an extinct volcano, hike through beautiful walking tracks, enjoy spectacular harbour cruises, mountain bike along coastal hills and enjoy the magical experience of swimming with dolphins. Akaroa's rich cultural history complements these activities and creates an experience that alone makes a trip to Christchurch worthwhile.

Christchurch adventure sport

So you've taken in the sights, experienced the city and seen the surrounding areas, what's next you ask? Well why not try the uniquely New Zealand experience of adventure sport! Strap on a parachute, hook on a bungy chord, clip on some skis and hold on for some exhilarating jet boating, white water rafting and more! Christchurch is a stones throw from all these fun adventure sports and more, you don't have to be a pro athlete to enjoy them and they'll be something you'll remember for the rest of your life. Feel the rush as you jump head first from a bridge or plane and let the wild rivers of New Zealand give you the rush of a lifetime as you surge down rapids on a jet boating or rafting adventure. There are a lot of quality tour options available and you'll enjoy the experience even more as you meet new faces and friendly characters along the way.

If you want something unique and adventurous in a world that is fast losing new and exciting destinations then head to Christchurch, New Zealand. Whether it's part of wider New Zealand experience or a specific South Island adventure, you won't be disappointed. Head to the edge of the earth and see a world you never knew existed. If Middle Earth were truly real you would find it right here in Christchurch, New Zealand.

Festive New Zealand

Author: Richard Greaves

Source: articledashboard.com



New Zealand is a land in the far south where immigrant cultures were grafted onto a Polynesian landscape. This makes for a colourful culture replete with festivals of all kinds. There are festivals marking special days in the country's colonial history, events that celebrate the indigenous Polynesian culture and still others that commemorate New Zealand's rich agricultural traditions.

New Zealand celebrates its history on the last Monday in January with the Auckland Anniversary Day Regatta. This colourful, nautical event commemorates the arrival of Captain Hobson in New Zealand when he founded the city of Auckland.

The Auckland Anniversary Day Regatta dates back to 1840 which makes it the country's oldest sporting event. Predating the Americas Cup by 11 years, the Auckland Anniversary Regatta draws around 400 competing boats each year.

New Zealand's Polynesian roots are celebrated at the Pasifika Festival held at Auckland's Western Springs Stadium in March. The event celebrates the art, culture and lifestyle of the South Pacific through music and other performances.

First produced by Auckland City Council in 1993, Pasifika has grown over the years and now attracts more than 225000 visitors who come to enjoy the work of hundreds of performers from the Auckland region as well as the Pacific area.

The event kicks off on a Friday night with an opening concert from Air New Zealand. The main event starts of the Saturday and comprises around 300 food and craft stalls.

A popular addition to Pasifika was made in 1999 in the form of cultural villages. These showcase unique aspects of various Pacific Island communities. Each village presents a traditional and contemporary programme including music, dancing, workshops, and food.

In 2008, Wellington introduced its own Pasifika featuring exhibitors from Fiji, Tonga, Samoa, Tuvalu, the Cook Islands, Tokelau and Niue displaying traditional handicrafts such as embroidery, weaving, shell jewellery and wood carving.

Agriculture is at the heart of the New Zealand economy so it's no wonder that one of the country's most important festivals covers farming and rural life. It's the Royal New Zealand Show held over three days each November. With the theme of 'Bringing the country to town', the Show is held at Canterbury Agricultural Park, Wigram Road, Christchurch.

Featuring both indoor and outdoor displays and exhibitions, the Royal New Zealand Show attracts well over 100,000 visitors each year. Displays include marquees and pavilions showcasing the very best of New Zealand farming and rural life, top entertainment, and numerous other attractions. The event draws 5000 livestock entries and more than 400 exhibitors.

The Royal New Zealand Show was first held in 1924. Formerly held in rotation with Palmerston North, Hawke's Bay, Hamilton, Invercargill and Christchurch, the show has been held at the Canterbury Agricultural Park in Christchurch since 2006.

New Zealand is a fascinating country but attending a festival can give you special insights into this antipodean nation

5-Star Auckland, New Zealand Hotels

Author: David Urmann

Source: ezinearticles.com



New Zealand is a beautiful island country along the south western section of the Pacific Ocean. It comprises of the South Island and the North Island along with several smaller islands. This country is highly regarded for its convenient geographic location near Australia, Tonga, Fiji and Caledonia. As a developed country, it is ranked highly when it comes to international comparisons on life expectancy, quality of life, human development, public education, literacy, economic freedom, prosperity, lack of corruption, press freedom, ease of doing business and the protection of political rights as well as civil liberties. With its wide range of housing developments like apartments, residential houses, resorts and world class New Zealand hotels, this country is rated as one of the most livable places in the world.

New Zealand offers a lot of things to different people, whether it's for a business venture, vacation getaway, retirement home or investment opportunity - it has everything for everyone.

Taking a cruise through New Zealand is a time-honored tradition. It's a way to commemorate how the early settlers here found this darling country. It is also the best way to explore its amazing landscapes. This country offers more than 15,000 kilometers of pristine coastline, high quality resorts and top rated New Zealand hotels.

There are many beautiful places in New Zealand. If you're visiting this country, you should never miss out on the opportunity to visit one or two cities if not all. This includes Auckland, Bay of Islands, Napierm Tauranga and Roturua as well as Wellington, Lyttelton, Picton, Fjordland and Port Chalmers.

New Zealand Hotels

There is a wide selection of hotels in New Zealand. It comes in different sizes, shapes and personalities. There are also top international hotel chains like Accor, Hilton, Westin and Hyatt among others. There are also smaller hotels that are noted for their convenient locations and individuality. For large international chains, these are most likely found in New Zealand's major cities like Christchurch, Wellington and Auckland. You can also find a lot at holiday destinations like Queenstown and Rotorua.

For boutique and character New Zealand hotels, this would range from heritage building to the purpose-built facilities set in regional locations. The prices of these hotels vary depending on their level of luxury. Hosts of these hotels are actually welcoming and would provide insight to the area attractions and local culture

When it comes to medium-priced New Zealand hotels, they have a high standard of facilities and consistent level of quality. They have a wide range of facilities that include cafes, restaurants, gyms, bars and valet parking areas. Some of the names to look for include Kingsgate, Mainstay, Scenic Circle hotels and Flag Inns.

Auckland, New Zealand Hotels

The Langham - This 5-star hotel in New Zealand is located in the heart of the dining, entertainment, shopping and business districts of Auckland. The rate of this hotel ranges from $NZ 160 to $NZ 2,500.

Sky City Grand Hotel - This New Zealand hotel is a signature stopping point in central Auckland. It is rated 5-stars. The price of accommodations here ranges from $NZ 180 to $NZ 900.

For more information on New Zealand Hotels and New Zealand Attractions please visit our website.

Things to Do in New Zealand - North Island

Author: Trisha Garbrick

Source: ezinearticles.com



New Zealand's North Island is the smaller of the two main islands; however, it holds approximately 76 percent of New Zealand's population. The North Island is also the warmer of the two, with a temperate to subtropical climate. It boasts warm sandy beaches, rolling farmlands, forests and dormant volcanoes. Two of the country's biggest cities are located on the North Island: Auckland, and the capitol city of Wellington.

Auckland, often referred to as the City of Sails, is the largest city in New Zealand, with a population of approximately 1.4 million. Auckland lies between the Waitemata and Manukau Harbors, bordering the rain forest and several dormant volcanoes. Auckland has something to offer everyone, including an array of outdoor activities, art and culture venues, shopping, dining and night life.

Some of the most popular attractions in Auckland include:

The Sky Tower is a 1,076-foot-tall observation and communications tower located in the heart of Auckland. This iconic tower is the tallest free-standing structure in the southern hemisphere! Visitors can walk the circumference of the tower's ledge or dine in the 360-degree revolving restaurant. Thrill-seekers enjoy Sky Jumping (similar to bungy jumping) and Sky Walking. Kelly Tarlton's Antarctic Encounter and Underwater World is a world of snow, ice and amazing underwater sights. Here you can watch penguins, white sharks, giant eels, stingrays swim in ocean-like waters. Open 365 days per year. The Auckland Museum is one of New Zealand's most important national museums and war memorials. The museum is housed in one of the country's most outstanding historical buildings, and exhibits the artistic history and culture of New Zealand and its people. Open year round, except Christmas day. The Auckland Bridge Climb is a 1.5-hour guided climb offering some of the best views of Auckland and the beautiful Waitemata Harbor. Open year-round, except major holidays. Bush and Beach Tours, some of Auckland's most popular interactive guided eco tours, offer half- or full-day tours to the Coastal Rainforest, the black sand beaches of the wild west coast, the Great Barrier Island, and Coromandel Peninsula. Tours run every day except Christmas Day.Wellington is located on the southern tip of the North Island and is the second most populated city in the country. Set on the edge of a stunning harbor and surrounded by rolling hills, this charming city is not only the country's political capital, but it is also New Zealand's culture and art capital.

Some things not to be missed in Wellington are:

Museum of New Zealand - Te Papa Tongarewa is New Zealand's national museum and is a must-see for anyone visiting Wellington. One of the largest national museums in the world, this venue combines world-class displays with interactive technology to tell the story of New Zealand, its history, people, art and natural environment. Open 365 days per year; admission is free. Museum of Wellington City & Sea's mission is to preserve, promote and present Wellington's heritage - harbor, city and sea. The museum uses special interactive exhibits along with traditional museum techniques to take visitors on a journey through Wellington's past, present and future. Open every day, except Christmas day; admission is free. Karori Wildlife Sanctuary is located just minutes from downtown Wellington. The sanctuary's purpose is to restore a corner of mainland New Zealand to the way it was before humans arrived. Little Spotted Kiwis, North Island Wekas, North Island Kakas, Tuataras and Maud Island Frogs are just some of the native wildlife available for viewing. Open every day, except for Christmas day. Tours offered daily. Wellington Zoo is New Zealand's oldest zoo, and specializes in native animals and endangered species. Home to more than 100 species, some of the major exhibits include the African Savannah, Red Panda and the Malayan Sun bear. Open every day except Christmas day. Harbor Cruises can be a very interesting and fun ways to sight see in Wellington. There are several different companies offering daily cruises, including sunset and dinner cruises. Parliament Buildings, home to the New Zealand Parliament, are at least worth a photo stop. The visitor's center and guided tours operate year-round, except for major holidays. Mount Victoria is located just to the east of Wellington, and its summit is approximately 700 feet above sea level. On a clear day, visitors can take in fantastic panoramic views of Wellington and the surrounding hills.Rotorua, not surprisingly, is located on the south shores of Lake Rotorua and is the heart of New Zealand's Maori culture. This city is best known for its geothermal activity, including many geysers and hot mud pools located throughout. Additionally, there are 16 lakes (15 of which are swimmable) and some of the best mountain bike trails in the world.

Some of the top attractions in Rotorua include:

Wai-O-tapu Thermal Wonderland is a geothermal site located just 20 minutes from Rotorua, where visitors can view mud pools, steaming volcanic lakes, geysers, steaming grounds and huge volcanic craters. Open daily. For an authentic Maori experience, visit Mitai Maori Village, which offers cultural performances, a Hangi meal, a guided bushwalk, and a glow worm tour. If you book the tour at the actual Maori village, they will provide transportation from your hotel. Tours are available year-round, except for major holidays. Skyline Skyrides is an attraction of its own category. Set on the side of Mt. Ngongotaha with unbeatable views of Rotorua and Lake Rotorua, Skyline Skyrides can be a fun adventure for the entire family! Guests take a gondola cableway up the mountain, and then luge down the slope. There is also a restaurant and cafe at the top. The Bay of Islands consists of 144 islands with myriad secluded beaches and quiet alcoves for swimming, fishing, kayaking, boating and diving. This gorgeous area is not to be missed whether on foot or from a scenic flight above.

Taupo is located on the shores of Lake Taupo, New Zealand's largest lake. Surrounded by a dramatic volcanic landscape, the main attractions in this area include skiing, fishing, Huka Falls, boiling mud pools, hot mineral baths, and lots of shopping and dining options.

Trisha has been working with the Travel Team for over 10 years. She has traveled extensively across the world and has been booking travel to Australia for 8 years.
Contact a Professional Travel Agent today to book your dream vacation to New Zealand! Call us 1-800-788-0829.

The Travel Team
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http://www.travelteam.com/

Caution When Shopping For New Zealand Gifts

Author: David A King

Source: ezinearticles.com



Beware of the Asian invasion when it comes to the design, making and selling of New Zealand gifts. Many of the so called "New Zealand Gift shops" are full of NZ designs copied and made in Asia. There was a recent article in the New Zealand Herald that was written by a Chinese man who was visiting New Zealand for the first time who was appalled at the Asian organized tourism which directed him and other overseas visitors into Asian owned hotels onto Asian transport and into New Zealand gift shops that were full of Asian produced counterfeit stock. He wanted to experience New Zealand, share time with its people and buy gifts that where truly New Zealand made items,

There is a risk that some areas of New Zealand have lost their Kiwi identity with central Auckland being one of the worst hit. There are pockets of old New Zealand shopping left in and around Auckland. Devonport is a good example with its historic buildings and originality and being only a short ferry ride from downtown Auckland it is worth a visit. Some of the suburbs are still true to their kiwi identity and offer an insight into the kiwi culture and Orewa, Warkworth Titirangi, and Pukekohe are good examples.

Try to hunt out the true kiwi gift shops before parting with your money a good example is Gecko Unique Gifts of New Zealand who have shops in Devonport and Orewa and a very good web site, They have history and specialize in New Zealand gifts and where possible always stock New Zealand made or designed product. If you plan to visit New Zealand take care to identify businesses that are genuine Kiwi and take home a truly New Zealand made gift for family and friends back home. When you do so you also help develop the New Zealand eco tourism by reducing our carbon footprint and the worlds land fill.

Gecko Unque Gifts of New Zealand have a wide range of New Zealand made and designed gifts for your selection. We have Jewellery by Boh Runga and others, Possum Merino wool garments by Koru, Ceramics and Kauri wood items by New Zealand artists, and heaps more.
Have a look at our wide range at http://www.geckogifts.co.nz

Renting A Motor Home To Travel New Zealand

Author: Mike Philips

Source: articledashboard.com



Whether you crave a holiday full of outdoor adventure or a relaxing vacation sampling gourmet cuisine and award winning wines, New Zealand has something for everyone. And, there is no better way to explore this highly diverse country than to rent a New Zealand motor home. With many tourist destinations within a few hours of each other and a well-maintained network of roads and highways, renting a motor home or camper van in New Zealand provides travelers the freedom and flexibility to experience all of the sites and attractions while enjoying all of the comforts of a home on wheels.

With many companies specialising in renting motor homes in New Zealand, it's helpful to compare prices and availability on the internet. Rates tend to be higher during the summer months of December through February, and the best deals are to be had from May through September. Reputable rental companies will offer comprehensive insurance, roadside assistance, and 24-hour customer service. Other features that are also frequently offered when renting a camper van in New Zealand include itinerary planning, kitchen utensils, linens, unlimited mileage, ferry booking assistance, airport pickup, and luggage storage.

Camp ground facilities throughout New Zealand are generally very well maintained and in convenient, and often times, scenic locations. Along with BBQs, kitchen facilities, restrooms and showers, most campgrounds have laundry rooms and playgrounds. It's always a good idea to reserve space at a campground prior to arrival, especially during the peak season of summer. Although most New Zealand motor homes and camper vans have a shower and toilet on board, it is illegal to discharge this waste into anything other than an approved dump station. Keep New Zealand clean and green. Should you dump the waste elsewhere it will end up in out pristine waterways. The main pick up and drop off cities for a New Zealand motor home or a New Zealand camper van are Auckland and Christchurch, although some companies have an office in Wellington, Picton or Queenstown. One way hires have a minimum hire period. It is also legal to park motor homes in New Zealand on national park land as long as there is not a "Parking Prohibited" sign posted.

Most first time visitors of New Zealand visit both the North and South islands to experience the vastly different landscapes. Camper vans and motor homes can be conveniently driven onto the Interislander ferry for the three hour journey between the islands. Most rental companies will gladly book reservations for the ferry and provide you with all of the information that you will need prior to setting sail.

When touring the stunning beauty of the South Island, it's especially important to be aware of the weather. Snow frequently falls in the winter months, and chains are required on some roads. The speed limit on New Zealand open roads is 100 km or about 62 miles per hour. To have a safe motoring holiday, it's essential to stay within the speed limit and to obey all of the traffic signs. Many of the roads, while well paved and signed, are somewhat narrow and often slick from rain or ice. Photo radar is used throughout the country to enforce the speed limits, and there are strict laws forbidding drinking and driving.

New Zealand is an amazing country with plenty to offer every traveler, and motor homes and camper vans allow the convenience, comfort, and flexibility to make the most of your holiday. Without wasting time checking into hotels or unpacking and packing up cars and suitcases, you can spend your time enjoying the sites and relaxing in your home on wheels. Happy Motoring!

New Zealand Seasons

Author: John Jepson

Source: ezinearticles.com



New Zealand Summer

What's a New Zealand summer like?

Those looking to enjoy New Zealand's summer should visit between the months of December through to February. New Zealand summer is a great time to come for visitors looking to enjoy bush walks and other outdoor activities. The summer makes New Zealand's beautiful beaches a very appealing option for swimming, topping up your tan, kayaking, sailing, surfing as well as enjoying a picnic stop.

New Zealand Autumn

What's New Zealand's Autumn like?

New Zealand's autumn months are from March to May. Although it can feel a little cooler, the weather usually remains fantastic and it is not uncommon to be able to go swimming in New Zealand until April. The majority of New Zealand's summer activities can actually be enjoyed throughout the Autumn months. Due to New Zealand's introduced deciduous trees, autumn offers an array of natural colour and radiance to anyone visiting during this time.

New Zealand Winter

What can you do during a New Zealand Winter?

From June through to August the New Zealand winter transforms the mountain ranges across both the North and South islands of New Zealand in to snow-capped scenic delights. Despite the colder weather and increased rainfall in the North Island, there is a buzz in the air as Kiwis pack their thermos and ski gear and head off to enjoy the brilliant skiing or snowboarding New Zealand has to offer. If skiing isn't your thing, the winter is a great time to enjoy the alpine scenery across the South Island due to the little rainfall experienced by some areas.

New Zealand Spring

New life in New Zealand

September to November is the best season to arrive if you get a thrill from excitable newborn lambs in spring. The blossoming plant life across New Zealand in spring offers a feast for the senses as the weather adjusts itself from chilly to hot. Increased water flow from snow melt through New Zealand make spring a great time to visit if you like white water rafting, and the spring festivals in both the North and South islands give everyone a reason to feel good.

http://www.onzamap.co.nz ONZAMAP Ltd is a new web service that is taking a different look at promoting New Zealand as a holiday destination. Through interaction with current and past travellers of New Zealand, as well as the operators of New Zealand's tourism businesses, ONZAMAP Ltd will be providing an easy to use, up to date account of what makes New Zealand unmissable for the International traveller.

Cheap Flights to New Zealand

Author: Dean Sawyer

Source: ezinearticles.com



Of all the major attractions around the world, New Zealand is one of the most visited destinations. It is a gorgeous holiday place that offers a lot of surfing and skiing venues. It is also one of the biggest islands in the world. This is exactly the reason why many people are attracted to New Zealand and its major attractions. With the growth in its Tourism industry, cheap flights to New Zealand are now being availed by most vacationers and business travelers.

For those who wish to visit New Zealand, you can check out different airfare packages online. Browse through the net for airline companies and travel agencies that offer discounts and promos. If you plan to visit New Zealand's North Territory, it offers a tropical setting and wonderful attractions. In this area, many online airline websites can offer a three-night stay in a hotel packaged with cheap flights to New Zealand. Most of the time, even airport-hotel shuttle services are included in the package. If you want to avail of the tours offered by the hotels, you can always work this out with your travel agent.

Through online bookings, you can find the best airfare discounts, travel packages, coupons and other exciting deals. Some of the huge airlines that offer great packages are Thai Airways, British Airways, Cathay Pacific and Virgin Atlantic. You can also check with Singapore Airlines, Malaysian Airlines, South African Airways and Air New Zealand. Other airlines that offer cheap flights to New Zealand are Qantas, Emirates, Brunei Air, Lan, Jet Star, Air Canada, Air Tahiti Nui, Lufthansa and more.

Another alternative to reaching this country, aside from finding luxury or cheap flights to New Zealand is to avail of cruising escapades. In fact, cruising through New Zealand is considered a time-honored tradition. Locals believe this is how their ancestors and early ancestors discovered this wonderful country. You'll definitely love the 2 main islands of New Zealand which offer more than 15,000 km. of coastline.

New Zealand also has 9 main ports. This includes the Bay of Islands, Auckland, Hawke's Bay, Wellington, Rotorua and Tauranga as well as Picton, Port Chalmers and Picton. Other ways to enjoy New Zealand are via guided tours, group tours and independent tours.

To ensure a hassle-free trip to New Zealand, your passport should be valid for 3 months way beyond your intended date of departure. It shouldn't be excessively worn, defaced and damaged. You won't be required to get a residence permit or visa if you're a New Zealand citizen or resident permit holder; an Australian citizen with an Australian passport; an Australian resident with an Australian resident return visa; a British citizen or British passport holder; a New Zealand citizen with a visa waiver agreement.

Visit our site to learn how to get Cheap Flights To New Zealand and to any destination you want at http://www.Cheapest-Flight-Tickets.com.

Holidays in New Zealand South Island and North Island

Author: Bea Metcalfe

Source: ezinearticles.com



New Zealand didn't get the title 'Adventure Capital of the World' from promoting sock darning classes -- No Sir-eee, this title comes from the layout of high mountains off which glaciers roll, vast craggy gorges and lakes, and wide open space that make the whole country seem like a giant's Adventure Playground. And extreme sports peeps can't help but heed the call and want to spend their holidays in New Zealand and particularly South Island.

Bungee jumping, in its modern form, was invented in New Zealand, so it's the perfect introduction to all holidays in New Zealand. So was black water rafting, but this playground is also known for extreme staples: jet boating, white water rafting, heli bungy, tandem parapenting, tandem skydiving, heliskiing, snowkiting, snowboarding, sand yachting, zorbing, sphere-ing, rock climbing and abseiling, canyoning, and more gentle pastimes, kayaking, cycling or mountain biking and trekking: all worth considering when planning holidays in New Zealand.

This South Island extreme adventure itinerary is an extremely scenic model to base your own extreme holidays in New Zealand around.

Day 1: Wellington -- Nelson Many holidays in New Zealand start in Wellington, North Island, and from there head out across the Cook Strait, passing between the Marlborough Sounds to Nelson -- maybe doing a spot of fishing, or kayaking or wreck diving on your way.

Day 2 & 3: Abel Tasman National Park An unmissable part of any holidays in New Zealand, days in the Able Tasman National Park are for kayaking and walking in an extremely beautiful setting.

Day 4 - 6: Via the blowholes at Punakaiki to the Franz Joseph Glacier On the way past Punakiki to Franz Josef stop off at the Pancake Rocks, eroded rock formations that facilitate some very impressive ocean v. blowhole action, and not something most holidays in New Zealand factor time for, then spend a couple of days around the glacier cross county quad biking, ice climbing or rafting - or even heli-rafting - on the river. The face of the Franz Joseph glacier is constantly changing, it's one of the world's only advancing glaciers -- it can move up to 70cms a day - and the walk up to its icefields and icefells is though temperate rainforest, rising almost 2500m in under 12 kms. If the half day glacial hike up it, over its ice fields on the way, sounds a little too easy for your extreme holidays in New Zealand, opt for the heli-hiking option -- you do the work on the way up and then get lifted down over some spectacular scenes -- bound to be a highlight for holidays in New Zealand.

Day 7: Lake Wanaka In winter Lake Wanaka is the ultimate wintersports holidays in New Zealand destination, come on down skiers! cross country and otherwise, snowboarders! for the snow park and ice climbers. In summer it's time for fishing, swimming, boating and of course jet boating holidays in New Zealand.

Day 8 - 10: Queenstown and Milford Sound Queenstown has more than once been referred to as 'the Adventure Capital of the Adventure Capital'. This town has the original commercial bungee jump, as well as one of the highest - if that's not high enough go skydiving! Or try something new on your holidays in New Zealand and get catapulted about on the Shotover Canyon Swing - it's like a huge fairground ride - go high-wire-bungee-ing, try canyoning, or heli-mountain biking. There are a lot of sports that New Zealanders like to add the word 'heli' to the front of. In winter there's extreme wintersports to keep you entertained in Queenstown as well. Milford Sound is close by if you prefer extreme watersports.

Day 11: Lake Tekapo, Lake Pukaki and Mount Cook Climbing Mt. Cook or heli-climbing her is one of the highlights of spending your holidays in New Zealand -- either way this snowy peak is a spectacular view -- but for an even more extreme view skydive over her.

Day 12: Christchurch Surf, do the rapids at Rangitata Gorge, or recover.

Resource Box: Looking for advice on holidays in New Zealand? WorldReviewer.com is an independent travel website with information on everything from North Island to South Island.

New Zealand - Why Choose New Zealand As a Holiday Destination?

Author: Cynthia Marsh

Source: ezinearticles.com



So you are planning your next holiday and you cannot work out where you would like to go? Have you ever thought of New Zealand as a holiday destination?

The flying time from the United Kingdom is around 24 hours, which may seem daunting, but once you arrive in New Zealand there are such a wide range of activities, attractions and accomodation on offer that you will not regret the time you spent in the air. If you have the time, arranging a stopover in Singapore, Malaysia or Hong Kong can break the journey and add another exciting element to your holiday.

New Zealand is situated in the South Pacific Ocean, and consists of two islands, the North Island and the South Island. The weather varies from being mainly sub-tropical in the North Island to temperate in the South Island. However, there are a lot of regional variations and the weather can change very rapidly in the space of twenty four hours. The weather in the summer tends to be more settled, and you can expect to be able to enjoy long, hot sunny days on the beach. In the winter, it can be very wet and cold, but there is superb skiing and winter sports in the mountains, with Queenstown being the main centre.

There is a wide range of accommodation available in New Zealand. This ranges from top quality hotels, to self-catering cabins and backpacker hostels. Travelling around is also very simple. Hire a car or a camper van and 'do it yourself'. A ferry will take you and your vehicle between the North Island at Wellington and Picton on the South Island. There are several international and domestic airports, so flying is a quick way to get to your destination. There is also a rail network, and if you want to sit back and watch some of new Zealand's stunning scenery go past, book a ticket on the TranzAlpine between Christchurch and Greymouth. There are also several bus companies like the 'Magic Bus' who do regular routes around the most popular spots on both islands, and will even book your hostel accommodation for you and take you to local attractions.

New Zealand was originally colonised by the Maori people from Polynesia about 1200 years ago, and the first European to reach New Zealand was probably the Dutch explorer Abel Tasman in the 1640s. New Zealand was rediscovered by Captain Cook in the eighteenth century and European settlers began to arrive. If you are interested in learning more about Maori culture, there are many Maori Cultural Centres across New Zealand, from the Waitangi Treaty Grounds overlooking the Bay of Islands in the North Island to the Tamaki Maori Villages in Rotorua and Christchurch.

If you like outdoors activities you have a plethora of to choose from. There are many miles of walking tracks that offer good hiking and camping. Or if you prefer to be on the water go kayaking, sailing, white water rafting, water skiing and windsurfing. If you really like to get the adrenaline pumping, Queenstown is home to the original bungy jump, AJ Hackett, and you can plunge head first into a river canyon or drop off the side of a cliff. To keep the heart rate up, there is also jet boating, sky diving, quad biking and Zorb globe riding!

New Zealand also has a lot to offer nature lovers. There are many opportunities in centres such as Pahia and Kaikoura to go out whale and dolphin watching. You can even go swimming with the dolphins. Dunedin offers visits to the only mainland breeding colony of Royal Albatross, and there are many places on the coast where you can spot penguin and seal colonies. There are many centres where you can go and see the native wildlife such as kiwis, tuatara and kea. Visit the Southern Encounter Aquarium and Kiwi Experience in Christchurch, the Kiwi Birdlife Park in Queenstown or the Mount Bruce National Wildlife Centre. There are also several zoos in New Zealand; Hamilton Zoo, Orana Wildlife Park in Christchurch, Wellington Zoo and Auckland Zoo. New Zealand is also a paradise for fishing; with many opportunities for fresh water and sea fishing.

New Zealand is very volcanically active and there are many geothermal parks and hot springs to enjoy. Watch the mud boiling, the steam rising from the rocks, and the geysers spewing in the Rotorua region. Even on a cold winter day, enjoy a wallow in a deliciously warm, naturally heated hot pool, maybe followed by a massage or other beauty treatment?

Farming is one of the backbones of the New Zealand economy and there are many opportunities to enjoy farm experiences or farm stays where you can see the farm in action and watch the sheep shearing and other farm activities. New Zealand is also famous for its wine; and in the major wine producing regions there are many wine-tasting tours going out where you can sample the wines and purchase those you have enjoyed.

There are many unique experiences that only New Zealand has to offer. Go black water rafting through the caves of Waitomo or enjoy a gentler trip through the magical, sparkling glow worm caves. Try sand boarding down one of the massive dunes at Ninety Mile Beach or simply find a nice spot in the sun to read and have a coffee.

Cynthia Marsh

If you like the idea of travelling to New Zealand find out more information here:

http://hubpages.com/_cmblog/hub/Things-To-Do-In-New-Zealand-in-Winter--South-Island

and

http://hubpages.com/_cmblog/hub/Things-To-Do-In-New-Zealand-in-Winter---North-Island

Wildlife Holidays in New Zealand

Author: Isabella Olsen

Source: ezinearticles.com



New Zealand is a country surrounded by lush and beautiful scenery, the very reason why Peter Jackson chose it as the location for the famous Lord of the Rings movie trilogy. It has the distinction of being the last land mass on earth to be discovered, as well. Because of this, New Zealand has many amazing wildlife species, some of which cannot be found anywhere else in the world. Indeed, it is a great idea to spend wildlife holidays in New Zealand and enjoy many fun and unique ways of exploring and interacting with nature.

One of the most popular wildlife activities in New Zealand is bird watching. After all, before it was discovered, New Zealand was a land of birds, with only bats for mammal inhabitants. Today, it is still home to hundreds of species of birds, both flightless and capable of flight, as well as several migratory seabirds which are protected and can be viewed at various sanctuaries, zoos and bird parks.

Aside from bird watching, whale watching is also a popular part of wildlife holidays in New Zealand. Sperm whales, the largest of the toothed whales, can be seen all year round off the coast of Kaikoura while the smaller killer whales can be spotted from December to March and humpback whales can be seen in the months of June and July. According to experts, whales frequent the waters of New Zealand because of its deep underwater canyons and the right temperature of its currents.

There are opportunities for seal and penguin encounters, as well. Fur seal colonies are especially common on the rocky coastline of the South Island, or at Castlepoint and Cape Palliser on the North Island, although elephant seals and leopard seals have been known to come ashore, too. Little blue penguins or kororas, on the other hand, which are the world's smallest penguins, can be seen at Akaroa Harbour and Oamaru, while the rare yellow-eyed penguin or hoiho can be found on the Otago peninsula.

Swimming with dolphins is another popular wildlife activity, and is, in fact, one of the top-rated tourist activities in New Zealand, so make sure you try it during your wildlife holidays in New Zealand. Many consider this a privilege, as well, since dolphins are intelligent yet gentle creatures. There are many dolphin species in New Zealand, including the common dolphin, the bottle-nosed dolphin, the playful dusky dolphin and the Hector's dolphin, one of the rarest and smallest dolphin species in the world, which is exclusive to the waters of New Zealand.

Exploring the underwater wildlife in the network of marine reserves around New Zealand is recommended, too. These reserves consist of dive wrecks, kelp forests and sub-tropical reefs, all of which provide sanctuaries for hundreds of schools of fish. The most popular reserve is the Poor Knights Island Marine Reserve, which was also named by the legendary diver Jacques Costeau as one of the five best diving locations in the world.

There are also several places in New Zealand that offer an opportunity to go shark cage diving. After all, sharks frequent the New Zealand waters, too. The mako shark and the blue shark are the most common shark species in New Zealand, although the fearsome great white shark can also be found lingering in the Bay of Plenty, along with the giant stingray.

There are many excellent zoos, aquariums and wildlife parks to visit, too, such as the Willowbank Wildlife Reserve, the Orana Wildlife Park, the Wellington Zoo and the Seahorse World Aquarium. Some of them even offer a chance to feed and pet the animals. After all, the purpose of these establishments is not just to persuade tourists to spend wildlife holidays in New Zealand, but more importantly, to help everyone understand and care for animals all over the world.

Isabella Olsen is a writer for various travel magazines who also writes about cheap car rental worldwide. To book your car rental in New Zealand, visit Zencarhire.com.

New Zealand Rental Car - My First New Zealand Holiday

Author: Mike Philips

Source: articledashboard.com



As I planned my first visit to the stunningly beautiful country of New Zealand I knew that I wanted the freedom and flexibility to visit everything from the Franz Josef Glacier on the South Island to the vineyards in Hawkes Bay on the North Island. Because I didnt want to waste a minute of my limited time waiting for buses or being constrained by a tour groups itinerary, I knew that I needed a New Zealand rental car to fully enjoy all that the country had to offer. What I quickly discovered was that the car rentals in New Zealand are not only affordable and convenient they are ideal for exploring the vast array of sights on both of the country's islands.

With a few keystrokes on my computer, I was able to reserve an economical car rental in New Zealand prior to departing on my journey. Because I was flying into Auckland, the company offered to have a representative pick me up at the airport to take me to the rental car office. I was picked up kerbside right on time in the car that I was going to rent. I was amazed by the efficiency and grateful that I wasn't going to have to transfer my bags from one car to another at the office. The paperwork process was equally as seamless, as I merely had to show my United States drivers license, passport, and credit card. In less than one hour after arriving in Auckland, I was handed the car keys and on my way. With maps in hand and a full tank of gas in my late model New Zealand car rental, I was starting my independent journey to experience all that the country had to offer.

My first destination was the thermal city of Rotorua, 234 kilometers (145 miles) from Auckland. I must admit that I was a bit nervous for the first few minutes of driving on the left side of the road, but within a short time I was navigating as confidently as the locals. It certainly helped that the highways and roads were well paved, mapped, and signed, and that the vast majority of drivers were courteous and law-abiding. I was thoroughly impressed with New Zealand so far and pleased that I had chosen to drive myself rather than hop aboard a tour bus. Along the way, I stopped in a small town for a quick rest and a meal. I was really beginning to appreciate the freedom that my New Zealand car rental was offering me. Unlike an organized tour, I was able to stop, eat, and rest when I felt like it, in the locations that I chose. That first evening I picked up some takeout fish and chips, settled into my modest motel room along the highway, and charted on the map my route for the next following days.

After a week of touring the North Island and thoroughly enjoying my New Zealand car rental holiday that had everything from farm shows to wineries and museums, I was ready to tackle the rugged splendor of the South Island. I had coordinated with the rental car company to drive my car onto the Interislander ferry in the capital city of Wellington. The rental car representatives booked the ticket, and the entire process was amazingly easy. Three hours after boarding, I had arrived on the South Island, drove my car off the ship and began the next leg of my journey.

Driving the less traveled roads of the South Island, I journeyed to national parks, explored the coasts, and even had some time to enjoy the cosmopolitan cities of Christchurch and Dunedin. As my memorable trip came to a close, I returned to the North Island and headed back to Auckland to drop off the car and head to the airport. The return procedure was quick, and the car hire New Zealand representative kindly drove me back to the airport.

My trip to New Zealand was the most memorable and wonderful vacation that I have ever experienced. I had the freedom to explore the country on my terms and time schedule. I was able to see more than just the main tourist attractions and had the pleasure of meeting many of the friendly and welcoming native New Zealanders. I honestly dont know if I would have appreciated as much of the unique culture, diversity, and stunning beauty of the country if I had spent my days on a tour bus. Thankfully, New Zealand is ideal for exploring by rental car and perfect for those travelers looking for a little adventure and a lot of fun. And, of course, I can hardly wait to return to New Zealand for another road trip! ฉ

Visit Kaikoura: A Classic New Zealand Attraction

Author: Debi Hazelden

Source: ezinearticles.com



Kaikoura, a stunning, seaside town on the east coast of New Zealand's South Island and one of the most popular New Zealand attractions today, is not the kind of place you would expect people to simply pass by when driving up and down State Highway 1-but that was indeed the situation in the 1980s, when a slow economy caused the town to begin a downslide into unemployment and economic stagnation. The local restaurants were quiet and Kaikoura motels were empty. Even the beautiful scenery-the purple mountains that seem to begin and end at the edge of the ocean; the pebbly beaches and textured outcropping that heavy fur seals bask upon; the soft mist that hangs around the town near sunset-couldn't save the town from a struggling economy.

Fortunately, in 1987 a group of people thought that it might be possible to save the town through bringing tourists to see the whales. Off the coast of Kaikoura is an underwater canyon that acts as home to a variety of marine life, including the giant sperm whale, which lives here year-round. If tourists could be brought out to the canyon to observe the whales in their natural habitat, Kaikoura could develop a sustainable tourism industry. This thought was the beginning of Whale Watch Kaikoura.

The tour company had humble beginnings: just a few staff and small boats, but over the years Whale Watch Kaikoura has developed into one of the most popular tourist attractions in Kaikoura. Thanks to sustainable policies and a deep respect for wildlife, Whale Watch has been able to sustain and grow its operation without having any negative effect on the whales or the environment. Due to its popularity, the company has even had to build a new marina to house its fleet of modern catamarans.

As far as whale watching goes, Kaikoura has emerged as one of the world's premier destinations. The grandeur of the landscape as well as the abundance of things to do around Kaikoura attract many visitors, and invite long stays in the area. But what really makes Kaikoura a stand-out whale watching destination is the year-round service thanks to the whales that make Kaikoura their permanent home.

Whale Watch Kaikoura uses sound technology to find the whales as they live, play and feed in the deep waters of the Pacific Ocean. Due to both the effectiveness of the whale-seeking technology as well as the year-round population, Whale Watch Kaikoura boasts an impressive 95% success rate when it comes to spotting whales. This makes this destination one of the best in the world for whale watching.

Not only is Kaikoura home to giant sperm whales, but also to other species passing through on their annual migrations. If you visit in the New Zealand winter, you are more likely to also see humpback whales, blue whales or others. Also common are dolphins like the tiny Hector's dolphin or the orca, fur seals and albatross.

Your whale watch tour will be led by a local guide who will share with you his or her knowledge of the Kaikoura Peninsula and the whales. The staff at Whale Watch are professionals who are dedicated to their beautiful region, and will go above and beyond to make sure you are happy with your experience. Be sure to explore the rest of Kaikoura while you are in the area: the region has lots of great walks and sightseeing opportunities.

Whale Watch Kaikoura has become one of the most visited Kaikoura attractions, attracting tourists from all over New Zealand and the world. The stunning surroundings make Kaikoura camping grounds a popular choice for accommodation. Don't miss this charming town on your next trip to New Zealand.

Top 10 Adventure Activities In New Zealand

Author: David Johnn Smith

Source: ezinearticles.com



When it comes to finding activities in New Zealand, you should have no trouble finding plenty to keep you busy. If adventure is the name of the game, you should check out the top 10 list of adventure holidays and activities for your Kiwi holiday. According to reviews, the best adventures in New Zealand include the following:

Black Abyss Cave - Go spelunking into a cave with an entrance so small you're able to touch the edges with your feet. The entire journey is a five-hour tour that explores this secret world beneath the seas that has been hidden for over 30 million years.

Auckland Bridge Climb - Real daredevils can have a great time climbing the Auckland Bridge, enjoying one and a half hours of frightening fun high above the water. If you're looking for the ultimate way to get back down to earth, try the bungee pod off the bridge.

White Water Rafting- Head to Taihape and jump into a raft on some of the best waters in the country. This is a grade 5 adventure and isn't for the faint of heart.

Nevis Canyon Swing - If you're around Queenstown, you can visit the canyon and get hooked into the Nevis Arc swing, which will allow you to see the view up close and personal.

Ledge Bungee Jump - While you're adventuring in Queenstown, head to the ledge. This is a runway, suspended in the air, where you can get a running start and throw yourself off the platform to fall 400 metres overlooking stunning views and scenery.

Franz Josef Glacier - If you want to explore a little of everything, take the Franz Josef glacier hike, which will give you a full day to explore ice caves, vertical ice walls, and so much more.

Skydive Lake Wanaka - The name says it all. This is one of the most scenic parts of the country and you can enjoy it adventure-style.

Jetboating - Jet boats are a great adventure activity for people who prefer to stay on the ground. If you want to go fast and have fun, this is a great time for everyone.

JAG Air Aerobatics - Ride with an ex-fighter pilot to experience all the thrills and G forces that you can handle for 20 minutes.

Extreme Flying Fox - This is a 1 km zip line suspended 175 metres above Gravity Canyon that will reach speeds up to 160 kmph, if you can handle it.

As you can see, there are plenty of adventure activities in New Zealand, no matter what type of fun you might be looking for.

KiwitravelNZ.com - New Zealand Package Holidays / Vacations.

Our dedicated and experienced team of professionals, with their extensive local knowledge, are here to assist you in planning your New Zealand travel itineraries. We can book independent and guided tours and arrange activities of interest for you prior to your arrival so as to ensure you enjoy a real hassle free New Zealand holiday. Our mission is to provide international travellers with an accurate information service on activities in New Zealand, accommodation, transport, attractions and special events.

New Zealand - The Jet Boat Capital of The World

Author: Edmond Wallace

Source: ezinearticles.com



If you think of New Zealand you are probably going to think of a jet boat soon after sheep and the kiwi. There are real and genuine facts to support this supercharged ideal. Jet boats in NZ are exactly what they sound like. Powerful, and do not use a conventional propeller. Unlike tradition powerboats and motor boats, they use jet thrust much like that in powerful jets that fly. Water is drawn in and thrust out a nozzle at the rear of the boat.


Invention. The thrust jet boat engine was developed to overcome the shallow waters of many of New Zealand's rivers in the 1950s. Hamilton discovered that the effect of the jet engine was greatly improved when the water was released above the water line. And although this was not the first of this kind of boat to be invented, it was the beginning of real jet boats and their use-ability in the real world.
Manoeuvrability. Jet boats are highly manoeuvrable, and many can, from full speed, be reversed and brought to a stop within little more than their own length, in a manoeuvre known as a "crash stop". The well known Hamilton turn (after the inventor Sir John Hamilton), "jet spin" is a high speed trick where the boat's engine throttle is cut, the steering is turned sharply and the throttle opened again causing the boat to spin quickly around with a large spray of water.
Efficiency. The faster this boat goes, the more efficient it becomes as the main body of the boat will leave the water, and they 'fly' across the surface.
Variety. There are a variety of commercial operators that can give you exhilarating rides across the ocean harbours or nerve racking river rapids.
Need for water? They can be safely operated in as little as 10 centimetres of water.
Racing and history. New Zealand was the first location for endurance jet boat racing that started as early as the 1970s which has boomed into one of the county's biggest loves and NZ continues to pioneer in the field.
Originally for work. The boats were originally designed so that farmers could access high country farm land and they have rapidly spread and more widely used for leisure and fun because of the exhilaration and appeal.
Safety. You will need head protection and a life vest to deal with 360 degree spins and knuckle numbing power. You can expect to get a little wet. To operate a jet boat the boat must be fully inspected and the company must have appropriate licenses. All boats have been rigorously checked by the Director of Maritime New Zealand and must comply with the SOP (Safe Operational Plan).
Enjoyment. Everybody walks away with a smile on their face!


What are going to do? Get on one!

By the way, do you want to learn more about Travel and Leisure? If so, I suggest you check jet boat and jet boat rides.

Cheap Car Hire in New Zealand - Plan Your Road Trip Today!

Author: Merav Benaia

Source: ezinearticles.com



If you are taking advantage of the cheap flights from Australia to New Zealand for your summer holidays, you should also consider taking advantage of cheap car hire too, and plan your road trip around the 'Land of the Long White Cloud' today!

When booking our holidays many of us often choose to stay in one location for the duration of our trip, often due to the cost of travelling around, however when you take a look around you can save yourself money on those generally costly items; meaning you can plan to travel further and see more!

When you are looking for cheap car hire in New Zealand, it doesn't mean that you have to give up getting a quality vehicle. There are some great quality companies that offer more than just cheaper rates on their vehicles, such as car seat hire for the children, GPS navigation systems, bike racks and more.

The location that you choose to pick up your vehicle from will depend on where your flight arrives into. The main centres where international flights arrive into are Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch, however there are flights into other towns such as Queenstown and Rotorua available. Once you have your pick up location you can choose where you travel to first on your road trip. Below we give you some ideas:

Auckland Pick Up Location:

Travelling from Auckland you can almost head in any direction and experience something different in terms of scenery, lifestyle, entertainment and weather. As an idea of a 7 day itinerary: - Head into Auckland City and experience the Sky Tower, shopping, dining and more before beginning your travels. - Head on up to the Coromandel Peninsula, stopping at the famous historical gold mining town of Thames to get your history 'fix'. - Carrying on you will explore the Coromandel's amazing golden sand beaches and natural attractions. Take a picnic at Cathedral Cove and bask in the sunshine. - From Coromandel head down to Rotorua for a geothermal experience like no other. - From Rotorua travel to Taupo in the south and see New Zealand's largest lake or explore the Tongariro National Park before travelling back to Auckland.

Christchurch Pick Up Location:

Christchurch is in the South Island of New Zealand and again allows you to start your journey by travelling in almost any direction. As an idea of a 7 day itinerary: - Explore Christchurch the 'Garden City' and it's heritage before heading down south. - Travel to Dunedin - you can choose to stop at any one (or more) of the small townships on the way including Ashburton, Temuka & Timaru for a bite to eat and a 'cuppa'. - Once in Dunedin, visit Larnach Castle or take a bird watching tour where you can see the Yellow Eyed Penguin or Royal Albatross. - From Dunedin travel to Te Anau - the gateway to the Fiordland National Park. - From Te Anau take a trip to Milford Sound hop on board a cruise to see Mitre Peak and Bowen falls. - With a short trip back to Te Anau you can then head north to Queenstown. - Queenstown is a popular resort town year round, with many adrenalin pumping activities including jet boating, bungy jumping and more. You can also enjoy dining on the lakeside or pamper yourself at one of the spa resorts. - From Queenstown begin your journey back up to Christchurch before heading home.

As you can see you have plenty of road trip opportunities - it's just a matter of finding cheap car hire in New Zealand to start your journey with.

Article by Merav Benaia who works for AllWays Car Rental

AllWays Rental - a family owned and operated camper van hire and car rental company located near both Christchurch & Auckland Airport's in New Zealand (NZ). Take a look at our website here and book a cheap car hire in new zealand today: www.allwaysrental.co.nz

Landscape Photography: A New Zealand Guide

Author: Kirill Kruger

Source: ezinearticles.com



New Zealand is a beautiful country and a dream location for any photographer. Capturing awe-inspiring and beautiful landscape images is not hard while travelling in New Zealand, but with a few tips an everyday photographer can produce some truly stunning images.

New Zealand's landscapes can change immensely from one region to the next. It is best to choose your travel route based on what kind of scenery you wish to capture. When planning your travel through New Zealand the first issue to consider is what island you wish to visit. The landscapes of the North and South island can be vastly different.

The North Island is smoother and generally less dramatic than the South Island. The North Island is filled with an abundance of rolling green hills, forested mountains, and abundant beaches. The Northland region is a picturesque example of such characteristic New Zealand geography. The area is best seen by following the Twin Coast Discovery Highway, north of Auckland. The route will take you near the Bay of Islands and Goat Island, both of which are amazing scenes for anyone interested in sea-side and beach photography. The road can lead to the tip of New Zealand at Cape Reinga, which provides visitors with exciting opportunities to photograph towering sand dunes and the clash of the Tasman Sea and the Pacific Ocean. It is possible to take successful and dramatic photos of the entire Northland region even in bad weather, with the strong geographic features of the area holding their own unique presence on overcast or rainy days.

Outside of the Northland, the East Cape of the North Island is perhaps one of the most picturesque areas of New Zealand. The region is best experienced by taking the Eastland section of the Pacific Coast Highway. The drive can be seen as a compressed photographic tour of New Zealand, featuring rocky outcrop beaches, smooth and expansive sand beaches, smooth rolling mountains, jagged snow peaked mountains, small towns, cities, farms, forests, along with the longest wharf in the southern hemisphere.

For some, the South Island can be a better photographic travel destination than the North, as it is much more dramatic and varied, but the weather and travel times will require more patience and commitment from the individual. It is perhaps easiest to think of the South Island as a few distinct areas, with different characteristics and photography styles.

The North side of the Island is filled with beaches, coves and sounds. The weather is also much more favorable, generally being some of the sunniest in New Zealand, making it perfect for sunset and sunrise shots by the water.

The East coast of the South Island is very dramatic, starting with the sheer rock faces and rocky beaches of Kaikora, to the perfectly round isolated boulders of Moeraki. As with the Northland of the North Island, it is possible to take powerful photos of the East coast in bad weather, with powerful storm clouds often complementing the jagged features of the terrain.

Turning West at any point on the East coast will bring you into the middle of the South Island's Southern Alps. This area is blessed with extremely tall snow peaked mountains, and subsequently breath taking views. It is advised to take a polarization filter for your camera, and wait for particularly clear weather, as the areas appeal often lies in the expansive landscapes.

The West Coast is more subdued than the East coast with terrain that is more reminiscent of the North Island. But the area also features the world famous Fox Glacier and Franz Josef Glacier, where one can see a wall of ice pushing straight into a native rainforest.

New Zealand is full of beautiful landscape opportunities. Free NZ Photos is a continuously updated and expanded New Zealand Photo Gallery, with images free for private and comercial use.

Why New Zealand Is a Great First Foreign Destination to Travel With Kids

Author: Claudia Looi

Source: ezinearticles.com



The Overview

New Zealand seems so remotely away from the rest of the world. Yet the country is well developed and easily accessible through the West Coast of United States, major cities in Europe and Asia.

The country is safe for travelers, the people are friendly, speaks English and their food is similar to North America.

New Zealand consists of two major islands, the North and the South Islands. Auckland is the largest city in the North Island and Christchurch is the largest in the South Island. Both cities are major gateways for all major airlines of the world.

The best time to visit New Zealand is between the month of October and April. Their seasons are the opposite of North America because it is located in the Southern Hemisphere. Due to its temperate climate, New Zealand can be a year round travel destination. The winter high temperature is about 50 to 59 degrees Fahrenheit (June, July and August).

Travel with Kids in New Zealand

New Zealand is renowned for its outdoor activities and adventures. There are a range of activities that adults and children can enjoy and get involve in. It is a destination where children do not have to sit through hours and hours of presentation, exhibitions and art museum.

It is a land of diversity in landmarks and attractions. Every turn and every corner there will be something to see. There are breathtaking mountains, glacier, volcano, geothermal, bubbly mud pools, sandy beaches, lakes, fjord and lots and lots of sheep.

New Zealand is famous for its bungy jumping. Some of the other great outdoor activities are rafting, skiing, jet boat riding, mountain climbing, and glacier exploration, soaking in natural hot springs, sheep shearing and hiking.

Kids at the age of 3 are allowed to participate in rafting, aged 10 and above for bungy jumping and to ride through rapids they have to be 13 and over. There is no need to leave the children behind.

Traveling on self-drive motor homes and cars are convenient, affordable and flexible way for family with kids. There are reliable rental centers all over the country with safe roadways and road signs. The only difference is they drive on the left-side in New Zealand.

A good way to experience the real New Zealand lifestyle is a farm stay. Farm stay can be found all over the country. It is a stay at self-contained unit like a cottage or an apartment next to the owner's house. The owner may have a small or a fairly large farm with animals and home grown vegetables and fruits to share with guests. Guests can get involved with the shearing of sheep, horse back riding and a farm tour.

Why Kids Should Travel?

Philosopher, St Augustine said: The World is a book, and those who do not travel read only a page.

Can you imagine high school student learning Chemistry without any actual hands on experiments? Likewise, learning World History, Geography, Politics and Economics without an outside exposure is limiting to a student.

Travel help young and old know the limitless world we live in, the diversity, the uniqueness of each culture, the beautiful and the ugly, extremes of life and definitely help in ones personal growth and development.

Elijah Wood, Actor in Lord of the Rings said:

"There's a real purity in New Zealand that doesn't exist in the States. It's actually not an easy thing to find in our world any more. It's a unique place because it is so far away from the rest of the world. There is a sense of isolation and also being protected."

So, what are you waiting for?

Claudia is a mother of 2, wife and stay at home and work from home mom for 16 years. She desires to see parents stepping up to be their best and raising up a generation of uncompromising, relevant and purposed driven adults. She believes traveling, volunteering and learning another language in addition to English are important tools for educating children.

You can find her at http://www.uncommongeneration.com. You can download a FREE REPORT: 7 Little Known Strategies the Elite Few Use to Educate their Children without Breaking the Bank!