Travel to New Zealand with travel insurance form Essential Travel

click here for an annual trip travel insurance quotation

Information on New Zealand

One of the most scenically beautiful countries in the world, New Zealand is blessed with verdant tropical rainforests, paradise-like beaches, stunning glacial scenery and pristine snowfields. Even the cities here are gorgeous, and Kiwi hospitality has made New Zealand a popular destination, despite its faraway location. Those who love the outdoors and adventure will enjoy their time here, as no part of the country is more than 128kms from the sea, and there are plenty of blood-pumping activities to be had.

The capital of New Zealand, Wellington, is located in the central region. Here, you can visit enjoyable attractions such as Te Papa, the fascinating interactive Museum of New Zealand and catch a performance by the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra. Nearby, the western Kapiti Coast is even more spectacular.

The vibrant city of Auckland has an ideal location between the Pacific Ocean and the Tasman Sea. Its famous Skytower watches over the city and you can climb to the top for some heart-stopping views. The harbourfront is home to plenty of good restaurants and bars, and a trip to one of the many nearby islands is great fun . North of Auckland is the lovely Bay of Islands. The Waitangi National Reserve is a well maintained historic reserve containing a whare runanga (Maori meeting house), Treaty House, waka taua (war canoe) and beautiful grounds. Another spectacular coastal area nearby is the lush Coromandal – east of the city.

Christchurch is the South Islands largest city and boasts exciting festivals, theatre, modern art galleries and great shopping. The streets here are centred on Cathedral Square with Christchurch Cathedral at the heart. With it’s botanical garden, avon river and orderly streets the city is reminiscent of England.

Queenstown has a stunning and bold location near the Remarkables Mountain Range and is famed as the adventure capital of the South Island. Adrenaline junkies will be satisfied here with sports such as jet boating, skiing, parasailing, bungee jumping, river rafting, snowboarding and much more. Additionally, the town itself is quite charming and offers an assortment of fine dining opportunities.

The lively university town of Dunedin is named in Gaelic after Edinburgh and was established by Scottish Presbyterians. It features some good historical architecture and is also near some great wildlife.

Also worth seeing, the city of Napier is situated in lovely Hawkes Bay and was rebuilt in the art deco style after an earthquake in 1931. Alternatively, Rotorua is at the heart of New Zealand Maori culture and famous for it’s geysers; while the spectacular western coast of the South Island offers miles of untouched rainforest, towering mountains and glaciers.

New Zealand Travel Partners & Resources

New Zealand Escape - Accommodation and Travel Guide
If you are planning a trip to New Zealand, this is a great place to start.

Adventure Tours in New Zealand
Join Flying Kiwi and enjoy great value tours with other outdoor-focused travellers. Activities include camping, kayaking, dolphins, glaciers and much more. Unique locations and flexible times are always available.

Kincaid Lodge
Backed by snow-capped mountains, looking out to the Pacific Ocean, the historic Kincaid homestead provides 4 luxury guest rooms, with the relaxed, private ambience of the country yet easy access to Kaikoura and its award winning attractions.

back to city guides