There aren't many places on this planet where travellers are so well catered for – in terms of both man-made enticements and splendours of the natural realm. New Zealand is bigger than the UK, with one-fourteenth the population size. Filling in the gaps are sublime forests, majestic mountains, and the stunning lakes, beaches and fjords that have made this country one of the best hiking (locals call it 'tramping') destinations on Earth. It’s renowned worldwide for having a relaxed, friendly, spacious and outdoor adventure lifestyle (think sport, walks, BBQs, and beaches). When you combine this adventurous outlook with a stunning backdrop you start to see why travellers rate New Zealand as the action/adventure/adrenalin capital of the world!
Situated on the eastern coast of New Zealand’s South Island, the vibrant city of Christchurch is the largest city on the island. Dubbed the 'Garden City', it is known for its many lush green spaces and possesses a multicultural charm with an added dash of Victorian flair. The city offers a fabulous array of activities, including punting down the Avon River, helicopter tours, hot air ballooning and whale and dolphin watching. Visitors can enjoy a stroll around the beautifully sculptured parks, visit the Christchurch Botanic Gardens and browse numerous art galleries, followed by a visit to Pomeroy’s for a craft beer and the adjoining Victoria’s Kitchen for a pub-style lunch.
Arthur's Pass National Park lies in the centre of the South Island of New Zealand. With its towering mountains, steep gorges, wide braided rivers and breath-taking waterfalls, it is an adventure seeker’s dream. The wide riverbeds and vast beech forests of the eastern side of the park stand in striking contrast to the deeply gorged rivers flowing through the dense rain forest of the west. Down the middle of 'the great divide' between these distinct areas is an alpine wonderland of snow-covered peaks, glaciers and scree slopes providing a mecca for skiers, snowboarders and mountaineers. Take a scenic train ride through the park and pop into the lovely little village of Arthur’s Pass. This tiny hamlet, often shrouded in a thick cloud of mist, is located within the park and offers facilities such as motels, cabins and a few quaint restaurants.
As the closest town to Mt. Hutt, this winter wonderland is primarily known as a mecca for skiers and snowboarders who flock here for the fantastic winter sports facilities and the abundance of après-ski entertainment, with its slew of lively restaurants and boisterous bars. However, if you happen to find yourself here in summer, there will be plenty to keep you blissfully engaged. Popular summertime activities include: jet boating, horse trekking, white-water rafting, hot air ballooning, mountain biking, and fishing. Adventure junkies can do a tandem skydive or take a 4WD journey through some of Canterbury’s most unique locations including the famous Mt Sunday. Nature enthusiasts will find some wonderful walking trails through the Mount Hutt Forest Park and at the nearby Pudding Hill Reserve. Whether you are looking for an adrenaline kick or merely a relaxing getaway in a spectacular natural environment, Methven is a great destination choice any time of year.
Fairlie is a scenic farming town and the the gateway to the Mackenzie Basin, including idyllic destinations such as Lake Tekapo and Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park. The town’s history is encapsulated in its local museum, where you can see exhibits of farming and household artifacts from days gone by, while the nearby Mount Dobson ski area is a magnet for skiing and snowboarding fans. For a more quirky experience, visit the Fairlie Alpaca Farm, where you can interact with these friendly creatures and learn how alpaca wool is made.
Tekapo - commonly known as Lake Tekapo - is a small town located near the geographical centre of New Zealand’s South Island. As its name suggests, the town is primarily known as a lakeside resort village, offering some excellent outdoor activities in remote and tranquil surroundings. In addition to numerous hiking trails, mountain bike paths, horse trekking and a full array of water sports (including salmon fishing), Lake Tekapo is most famous for its stargazing opportunities. Head to the Mount John Observatory, where you will learn about the unique geography of its region and its cloud-free skies, which are supported by local light pollution laws, as the area seeks to secure World Heritage status for starlight preservation. Lake Tekapo also boasts the photogenic Church of the Good Shepherd and plenty of dining and lodging options.
Wanaka is a town located on the southern bank of Lake Wanaka on the South Island of New Zealand. This resort is known for being a prime access-point to the unique Southern Alps’ Mount Aspiring National Park - featuring rich birdlife, enormous mountains and many astounding glaciers - and which forms part of the UNESCO World Heritage Area of Te Wahipounamu. However, besides being near the famous park, Wanaka also offers an abundance of outdoor activities. When it’s warm, enjoy water sports like kayaking and canoeing on Lake Wanaka, as well as hiking, rock climbing and 4x4 routes; while, in winter, you can go skiing and snowboarding on the white peaks of Snow Farm, Treble Cone or Cardonia (all within a 40-minute drive from Wanaka), and extreme sports enthusiasts even have the opportunity to heli-ski.
Arrowtown is located in a magnificent natural landscape of South Island’s Otago Region. Dwarfed by the towering peaks surrounding the peaceful Arrow River, this enchanting gold-rush village is a treasure trove of historical sights, with over seventy original gold-rush buildings and a fascinating partially restored Chinese settlement. The tree-lined avenues running through this lively little town are strewn with quaint miners’ cottages, funky cafes, fashionable boutiques, trendy galleries, and tempting restaurants and bars. Visit the Jade and Opal Factory shop to see hand carving done on-site, check out Patagonia Chocolates to watch it being made, or play a few rounds on the town’s three immaculate golf courses. More adventurous travellers can revel in the network of famed summer trails and winter ski fields. Arrowtown is an ideal destination for nature lovers, thrill-seekers and culture enthusiasts alike.
Queenstown, an idyllic resort town, lies on the shore of Lake Wakatipu in the southwest of South Island, New Zealand, surrounded by beautiful alpine peaks. Considered by many as one of the world’s top adventure capitals, this nature-laden destination offers a wide choice of adrenaline-boosting activities including white water rafting, zip-lining, skiing, skydiving and bungee-jumping (and a particular highlight, the world’s largest rope swing at Nevis Valley). Those who prefer soaking up the gorgeous scenery without too much effort will enjoy the lush vineyards, pristine golf courses, the dazzling Queenstown Gardens and the town’s luxury spas and wellness centres. Culinary types will also be pleased with Queenstown’s exciting gourmand offerings - the lively bar and restaurant scene provide a variety of flavours and experiences.
