introduction

Introduction

articles

Abel Tasman Coast

Art Deco City (Napier)

Arthur's Pass

Bay of Islands

Cape Reinga

Catlins Coast

Coromandel Peninsula

Fiordland Lakes

Franz Josef Glacier

Hokianga

Kaikoura Peninsula

Lake Taupo

Lake Wanaka

Marlborough Sounds

Milford Sound

Mount Cook

Mount Taranaki

Nelson Lakes

Otago Peninsula

Punakaiki

Queenstown

Sulphur City (Rotorua)

Tongariro Plateau

Waitomo Caves

White Island

New Zealand's green and friendly isles, situated in the vast South Pacific Ocean, are ranked among the world's most popular holiday destinations.

This was one of the last countries to be discovered in the colonial era and has often been dubbed 'God's Own Country' and 'The Last Paradise.' Our small country is crammed with a whole continent's worth of diverse scenery within its maritime borders. It's like the whole world in miniature - a microcosm of all the most impressive geographical features on earth.

The South Island is here for you to enjoy; dramatic alpine scenery, wilderness areas, glacial lakes, peaceful fiords, grinding glaciers, roaring rivers and gold rush relics. You'll love the North Island if you are seeking pleasant, easy-on-the-eye scenery - gentle rolling pastures, stunning off-shore islands and beaches, thermal resorts and Maori culture. If you really want to go bush, then Stewart Island is a remnant of ancient Gondwanaland - an untamed and rugged wilderness.

New Zealand's scenic attractions are easily accessible by public transport. Guided coach tours are available and take in most of the major sights within a 21-day itinerary. If you choose to travel independently, it can be difficult to decide which are the 'must see' scenic highlights. The New Zealand Information Network has compiled this list as a general guide for visitors who want to see the most memorable, unique and outstanding scenic attractions the country has to offer.

With so much to see and do you'll never be bored in New Zealand. Outdoor lifestyles and adrenaline pumping adventures can be experienced all year round. The sunniest period is December to April but temperatures are relatively mild even in winter. New Zealand is just a cool, awesome and exciting place to be. Don't let us have all the fun, come and join in - you'll be glad you did.