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Planet In1 Destination Australia Pacific (Oceania) - New Zealand
New Zealand is situated in the South Pacific Ocean, with its nearest neighbour, Australia to the west. New Zealand consists of two main islands — the North Island and the South Island. In addition, Stewart Island and many smaller islands lie offshore. One of the world's least crowded countries, New Zealand has a spectacularly beautiful landscape including vast mountain chains, steaming volcanoes, sweeping coastlines, deeply indented fiords and lush rainforests. Amazing wildlife and a pleasant climate make it a haven for many outdoor activities, and a great place to unwind. New Zealand society is diverse, sophisticated, and multicultural, and the Kiwis, both Maori and European, are honest, friendly and open. One great advantage of New Zealand is the diversity of its physical, cultural, and artistic landscapes.

New Zealand has fascinating native wildlife, including kiwi, tuatara, rare dolphins, penguins, and a huge range of native birds. A water-lover's paradise, New Zealand's beaches, lakes and rivers provide some of the most exciting kayaking, surfing, jet boating, fishing and sailing in the world. From thrilling bungy jumps to gentle hikes through scenic native bush, New Zealand offers a huge range of outdoor activities. Spectacular geysers and thermal springs, beautifully maintained gardens, zoos, casinos, and excellent wineries are just some of the attractions you can enjoy in New Zealand.

Wellington, the capital city, is located at the southern tip of the North Island. Wellington is home to Government Building, one of the largest wooden buildings in the world, known as The Beehive due to its shape. This is a lively city with regular festivals and great ethnic restaurants.

Auckland, the largest city, has a spectacular harbour and bridge and the number of yachting enthusiasts has earned it the title ‘City of Sails'. Stretching north from Auckland is the region of Northland and the Bay of Islands, where the Pakeha first made contact with the Maori and the first whaling settlements were established. The subtropical climate and unspoilt coastline makes this an ideal venue for water sports and adventure activities.

Rotorua is the heartland of New Zealand Maori culture and one of the original tourist destinations. At nearby geothermal hotspots, there are spouting geysers, boiling mud pools and warm geothermal springs. All this as well as being a prime trout fishing location.

Queenstown is the place for adrenaline junkies with white water rafting, flying fox, jet boating, hot air ballooning, luge and the Southern Hemisphere's highest land based bungy jump – The Nevis Highwire Bungy.

Stewart Island, New Zealand's third largest island, is a birdwatcher's delight. Unlike the other islands, kiwi are a common sight here. Stewart Island is the most unspoilt of the main islands and is to become Rakiura National Park to preserve and protect the environment for the survival of the native wildlife. This is the place to come for peace and tranquility.