During any visit to New Zealand, be sure to experience authentic Māori culture - it's unique to the country, and shouldn't be missed.
Shantini says, "New Zealand has a dynamic culture. The culture of its indigenous Māori can be seen in the language, the arts, and even the accents of all New Zealanders. Their place in the South Pacific, and their love of the outdoors, sport, and the arts make New Zealanders and their culture unique in the world."
While most vacationers pick up their rental cars in their gateway city of Auckland and drive southbound, a simple reversal of this plan can lead to significant savings. A little known fact: car rental companies offer incentives for travelers who assist in relocating their vehicles back north. Savvy travelers know to hop on a quick flight to picturesque Queenstown or charming Christchurch, for such deals as Budget’s One Way for just under $17 CAD per day or Avis' One Way Free Relocation, offering two days free rental.
Some of New Zealand's most memorable experiences won’t cost you a dime. Catch the sunset along the turquoise glacial waters of Lake Tekapo; dig a natural spa bath on Hot Water beach in Coromandel; enjoy high tide at the blowholes of Punakaiki; and step onto the lunar landscape of Craters of the Moon in Taupo.
Cap each day of adventure with intimate hostelries and warm Kiwi hospitality. Among the enchanting collection of boutique accommodations through Heritage & Character Inns of New Zealand, choose from historic guest houses and character B&Bs that are peppered throughout the country. And best of all, each member of this collection is certified by Qualmark, the official industry standard for quality assurance in New Zealand.
New Zealand's reversed seasons mean that traveling in April and May is distinctly autumnal. Get a head start on fall fashion with Kiwi designer wear and labels, such as Zambesi and Trelise Cooper, or stock up on lightweight merino wool outerwear by Icebreaker. Before committing to any Maori art purchases, look for the Toi Iho certification, which guarantees authenticity and quality of indigenous work. And if New Zealand's fine new world wines strike your fancy, note that a maximum of six duty-free bottles are allowable, and airport wine stores are stocked with many vintages not exported to the US.
Mount Cook (Aoraki) at dawn; the tallest mountain in New Zealand
Geography
Two islands Te-Ika-a-Maui and Te Wai Pounamu (North and South islands respectively) make up the majority of New Zealand, although smaller islands are within the borders. 93 per cent of New Zealand is submerged and is actually nearly half the size of Australia. The country is long and narrow extending to more than 1600 km and boasting over 15,000 km of coastline.
Getting There and Getting Around
Historically, Air New Zealand and Qantas Airways, launch web fare sales in the spring and fall at around $900 CAD roundtrip from California, so those are the times to nab the lowest airfares.
Travel between north and south islands is very convenient. Many cities and regions are served by domestic airlines, particularly Air New Zealand, and navigating roads is easy. There is also a pleasant three-hour ferry ride across the Cook Straits between Wellington and Picton.
The spine of South Island and an iconic landscape of New Zealand. For the best vantage point, try hot air ballooning from Queenstown or Christchurch. For a more active approach, bike or hike from Queenstown.
While Milford Sound might be the most famous, consider an overnight cruise to Doubtful Sound - a deeper, narrower gorge - for a less-traveled but absolutely awe inspiring experience.
Found on the rugged western coast, these readily accessible glaciers are a rarity at their altitude. Expert guides make hiking these glaciers a definite highlight.
For the truly adventurous, try scree sliding into Mount Tarawera in Rotorua or admire the other-worldly landscape of Taupo's Orakei Korako, with its pretty silica terraces and mineral pools. For a geothermal region that is relatively unknown, check out Taupo in Central North Island. You can't cover geothermal without getting into wellness, so take in a treatment or two at Taupo Hot Springs set in lush natural surroundings.
Whale watching is very reliable in Kaikoura year-round with a resident pod of sperm whales off the coast of this South Island town. New Zealand's geographic isolation has also spawned diverse and unique bird life, including many flightless birds such as the national bird, the humble kiwi. Learn about and see many native birds at the bird sanctuary on Kapiti Island.
This is the location where the controversial Treaty of Waitangi was signed between Maori elders and European settlers. Visit the Treaty Grounds and discover a magnificent meeting house and an impressive war canoe measuring 117 feet.
Another must is a visit to Waipoua Forest, native Kauri trees grow to giant proportions. These trees are some of the most ancient on earth at 4,000 years old.
The northernmost point of the North Island and a place of great spiritual significance to the Maori who believe that their departed souls come to this very spot, and leap off into the turbulent waters to journey back to their mythical homeland Hawaiki.
- For a look at the quirky Kiwi spirit, visit the Wearable Arts Museum in Nelson.
The national museum Te Papa is a world class experience that is always open and always free.
The largest wine region in New Zealand. The area produces mostly sauvignon blanc and is home to the likes of Cloudy Bay which has been credited to placing New Zealand wines on the world stage.
- A city that combines outstanding cuisine, attractions, outdoor activities and shopping. Wellington is compact, walk-able, coastal, and occasionally foggy. Don't miss a leisurely stroll along the waterfront Writer's Walk, celebrating the literary works of Katherine Mansfield, James K. Baxter and Vincent O'Sullivan. For a full-on cultural immersion, consider Flat Earth's Journey With Our Ancestors tour that takes you through Te Papa and Maori Treasures, an interactive working artist studio for the Maori community in Wellington.
Best Season to Visit
October through April is the best time to visit. Within that window, December to February is summer, but it's also when the country's tourism operators are at their busiest. Like many other destinations, we recommend off-peak travel for fewer crowds and better deals.
When you do arrive, bring your enthusiasm for history and culture, your sense of adventure, and your sense of humour. They'll all get a good workout in New Zealand.
*Information on New Zealand from newzealand.com/travel/northamerica and en.wikipedia.org.
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