New Zealand Government: Independent nation in British Commonwealth Capital: Wellington Population: (2003) 3.9m Time Zone: GMT + 12 hours

This former British colony well off the beaten-track has in very recent years become a preeminent destination for tourists. The reason: a landscape not found in other regions of the planet. Here you can encounter sights that seem to transcend time and take you back to a more primordial Earth -- active volcanoes, boiling mud, lava, sulfur springs, snow, deserts, Alpine-like mountains and glaciers. This combined with a hospitable people, excellent food and drink, and an efficient transportation system all make New Zealand a primary destination for travelers today. Accommodations / Hotels in New Zealand New Zealand has a smorgasbord of diverse places to stay to fit any budget.  Hotels range from exclusive resorts to economy. In keeping with its appeal to the outdoorsman, there is a wide selection of accommodations for backpackers. Campers can be acquired at Campervan Companies throughout the country. Eco accommodations are to be had in the national park areas such as the Tui Nature Reserve Park. There are numerous Bed & Breakfast lodgings. Boats and houseboats are available and for those inclined, you can stay on a farm or in a private dwelling (farmstay or housestay). Motels are available on the main highways.

Getting Around in New Zealand International airports are located in the larger cities such as Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch, and Hamilton. New Zealand is served by various international airlines including the Australian carrier Quantas.New Zealand has an excellent transportation system consisting of planes, buses, and ferries. Urban transportation in cities such as Wellington or Auckland is efficient and well organized. Tourists are advised to purchase a Travelpass that enables them to use all public transportation at reduced cost. Trains are ideal for long scenic trips. Most have large panoramic windows for sightseeing, comfortable lambskin seats, and dining cars. For areas not accessible by train, comfortable motor coaches are available. Unique to New Zealand are the Magic Buses. Neither a standard bus nor an organized tour bus, it is a combination of the two. Travelers can board and leave as they desire for a period from 2 days to 6 months and receive reduced prices for activities on the route. Ferries travel between Wellington and the south island, the 50 miles trip taking 3.5 hours. All ferries have a cafeteria, store, information office, game room for children, and a video room. New Zealand Hotels Auckland Hotels New Zealand Destination Guide from A to Z

Attractions in New Zealand

New Zealand has vast national forests on both of it two main islands. On the north island, the mammoth Tongariro National Park has been declared a World Heritage Area. This is an island of volcanic origin with thermal springs and gushing geysers. Three active volcanoes, forests, deserts, and snow on mountain heights create the sense of contrast. To the south is the Aoraki Mount Cook National Park, an alpine-like area with New Zealand’s highest mountains including Mt. Cook, the highest point in the country at 3765m. This region is a favorite for hiking and skiing. To the south is Mount Aspiring National Park. Its glaciers, lakes, and valleys make it a Mecca for hikers. The natural features of New Zealand’s geography make it a wonderland for outdoor activities. Canoeing, rafting, or kayaking on its swift rivers enjoy great popularity. Other adventure travel favorites include caving, horseback riding, bird watching, hunting, diving, paragliding, sky jumping, and ballooning.

Dining in New Zealand

The food of New Zealand reflects the English heritage of the nation with roast lamb and beef being favorites. For those wishing international fare, there are numerous European, Chinese, Hindu, and Vietnamese restaurants. The popular Kiwi fruit is incorporated in many desserts. Lobster, oysters, and other seafood are specialties of many restaurants. A favorite here originated with the original inhabitants of the country, the Maori. It is Hangi consisting of meat, fish, and sweet potatoes cooked in pits dug in the earth. New Zealand has excellent wines that enjoy an international reputation. Popular beers include Steinlager and Kiwi Lager. New Zealand – a unique natural wonderland inhabited by hospitable people!