Made up of two rather remote islands ( and many smaller ones ), this far flung country is one of the world ’ s greatest tourist hotspots thanks to incredible scenery , adrenalin boosting adventures , naturally warm and friendly people , pleasant climate , award-winning wines and cultural diversity .... all wrapped up in a package the size of Great Britain .
Rotorua
New Zealand ’ s 29 regions stretch more than 990 miles across two main islands – North Island and South Island , along with the lesser known Stewart Island in the south . Each destination is distinctive in character and , with the country being so compact , you can easily pack several into your holiday .
North Island has a spine of mountain ranges flanked on either side by gently rolling farmland , whilst the central area is a volcanic plateau and thermal area with the mud pools , hot springs and geysers of Rotorua at its heart . On South Island , the Southern Alps form a towering land mass along the west of the island and to the east , the landscape is of undulating hills and the flat Canterbury Plains . The country boasts a blissfully uncrowded stretch of coastline with a diversity all of its own . North Island and the north of South Island have the lion ’ s share of the sandy beaches , whilst the rest of South Island is wilder and more rugged . The Southern Alps are home to Australasia ’ s highest peak , Mount Cook as well as Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers . Marlborough Sound and the Fiordlands are examples of mountain ranges which have ‘ sunk ’ into the sea creating spectacular sounds and fiords . Milford Sound , particularly , is typical of the fabulous scenery for which New Zealand is renowned .
New Zealand ’ s Maori culture is an integral part of Kiwi life and adds a dynamic experience for visitors . Rotorua , on the central plateau of North
Island , has one of the greatest concentrations of Maori residents in the country and is one of the best places to experience this unique culture . You ’ ll almost certainly have the chance to try the “ Hongi ” – the traditional Maori greeting where two people rub noses . And even the non-rugby lovers amongst us couldn ’ t fail to recognise the familiar sounds and actions of the “ Haka ”, an ancient Maori dance , which has made the New Zealand All Blacks famous the world over .
Indulging in local food and wine is a must-do for many travellers . If gastronomy and the odd tipple are high on your agenda , New Zealand won ’ t disappoint with vineyards stretching throughout every region and chefs adding local twists to fine cuisine .
OUR FAVOURITE COMBINATIONS
We have handpicked a few of our favourite itineraries to tempt you ; however , these are just a guide to the many possibilities available . Prices are per person based on two sharing and include return international flights , onward domestic flights or road travel and accommodation .
8 nights from £ 2499
CLASSIC NORTH ISLAND This highly recommended self-drive provides a wonderful mix of city sights , mesmerising natural scenery and fascinating Maori culture .
2NTS AUCKLAND ~ 2NTS BAY OF ISLANDS 2NTS ROTORUA ~ 2NTS WELLINGTON
9 nights from £ 2629
THE BEST OF NORTH & SOUTH Check out top cities , natural wonders and scenic splendours on both the North and South Islands , travelling by air between each destination .
2NTS AUCKLAND ~ 2NTS ROTORUA 2NTS CHRISTCHURCH ~ 3NTS QUEENSTOWN
13 nights from £ 3199
CITY , MOUNTAINS & LAKES This self-drive tour helps you discover the South Island ’ s variety and exquisite landscapes . Also take an unforgettable journey aboard the TranzAlpine train .
5NTS CHRISTCHURCH ~ 2NTS GREYMOUTH 2NTS FOX GLACIER ~ 4NTS QUEENSTOWN
www . premierholidays . co . uk NEW ZEALAND 107