Auckland is the biggest city in New Zealand, home to close to a third of the country’s inhabitants. This is a world-class destination that has so much to explore. The city is built on a live basaltic volcanic field and this means that the landscape varies greatly. Here you will find steaming lakes next to craters, lava caves on recently formed volcanic islands and bubbling mud pools creating colourful mineral deposits. Adrenaline junkies love Auckland for all the leisure activities on offer, including sky jumps, canyoning, kayaking and more. Art galleries, top restaurants, shopping centres and markets add to extensive sightseeing in and around the city.
The city of Rotorua has been a spa town since the 1800s, thanks to the many geysers, hot springs and mud pools that can be found in what is one of the world’s most active geothermal fields. The Maori, who considered the region sacred, make up 35% of the population and a popular attraction is discovering their rich culture and traditions. Rotorua is surrounded by lakes, mountains, forests and other natural features that afford visitors the opportunity to try out a number of outdoor activities between relaxing sessions in the hot springs and pools.
Te Anau is situated in the southern region of New Zealand’s South Island, on the eastern bank of Lake Te Anau (the largest lake on South Island). The town is the perfect gateway to the unique and awe-inspiring geographical attractions of Milford Sound (boasting rich marine life and spectacular views), and the Fiordland National Park (offering the excellent Kepler, Routeburn, and Milford hiking and biking trails among astonishing landscapes). However, beautiful Te Anau has plenty to offer in its own right. Active travellers can enjoy water sports on the lake, such as kayaking, canoeing, sailing, and trout fishing, while gentle boat cruises provide a more leisurely option. Make sure to visit the incredible Te Anau Caves to see other-worldly displays of glowworms and an impressive underground waterfall, and visit the beautiful native birds at the Punanga Manu o Te Anau aviary.
Queenstown is situated on the shores of Lake Wakatipu and has stunning views of the surrounding alpine peaks. Considered by many as one of the world’s adventure capitals, it offers visitors a wide selection of adrenaline-boosting activities to choose from, such as bungee jumping, white water rafting, zip lining, skiing and skydiving. Queenstown also has a lively bar and restaurant scene, and for those who prefer the quieter things in life there are vineyards, golf courses, spas and wellness centres.
Fox Glacier village is in "Glacier Country" on the West Coast of New Zealand's South Island. Tucked discreetly into the rainforest-clad foothills of the Southern Alps, it has a stunning outlook across the surrounding farms and offers breath-taking views of New Zealand’s two highest peaks, Aoraki/Mt Cook and Mt Tasman. The tiny township was founded from a gold strike which soon petered out, and it now mostly serves as a base for visitors to its massive icy namesake. Compared to its larger, busier neighbour Franz Josef, Fox Glacier exudes a quieter, more intimate atmosphere. But don’t let its sleepy appearance deceive you - there is plenty to thrill even the most enthusiastic adrenalin junkie. Visitors can journey deep into the towering rain forests, explore the blue ice caves of the glaciers, jet-boat up a glacial river, or even skydive! Active adventure, relaxation or family fun all against the backdrop of a spectacular natural landscape, New Zealand’s Fox Glacier offers something for everyone.
As its name suggests, this historical town lies at the mouth of the Grey River. The town is well geared for travellers, offering all the necessary services and the odd tourist attraction, the most famous of which is Shantytown, a re-created 19th-century gold-mining town surrounded by an impressive native forest. Greymouth’s wide avenues are strewn with galleries specialising in pounamu, also known as New Zealand jade. Spend a day admiring these exquisite greenstone carvings for which this town is famous, take a tour of one of the town’s impressive local breweries, or indulge in some excellent trout fishing on the peaceful banks of the stunning Lake Brunner. Greymouth caters for a broad range of interests. Those in search of adrenaline pumping adventure will be well sated, but so too will those looking for a quiet, relaxing day out in a magnificent natural landscape. There really is a little bit of everything for everyone in Greymouth!
Christchurch city promises an eclectic mix of historic elegance and contemporary culture. As the gateway to the South Island, it's a must on any itinerary. Described by Lonely Planet as a "vibrant city in transition, coping resiliently and creatively,” Christchurch's energy is evident wherever you go. The city has bounced back after the Canterbury Earthquakes of 2010 and 2011 with innovative new attractions, as well as some old favourites. Visit the Re Start container mall, the transitional Cardboard Cathedral, and some of the many pop up restaurants and bars. Contemporary art galleries, boutique shops and open-air markets add to Christchurch’s creative vibe.
