New Zealand is a country of indubitable beauty. Its landscape is a rich mix of everything that travelers find most stunning and breathtaking. New Zealand has charming harbors and picturesque coastlines, prehistoric forests and alpine lakes, therapeutic hot springs and mud baths, and a thriving diverse wildlife as well.
New Zealand encompasses two major islands. To the north are the more developed cities and principalities including capital city of Auckland. To the south are the more dramatic landscapes of alpine peaks, fjords and verdant forests that many have come to associate with New Zealand.
Since New Zealand is a cornucopia of exciting and stunning destinations, we will first take a survey of what the North Island has in store for visitors of this enchanting country. The attractions in the South Island call for a separate article in the future.
More likely than not, you will be flying directly to Auckland. The city may not have the exotic terrain you visited New Zealand for, but it too, has plenty of exciting attractions and must visit destinations.
Auckland's harbor, in particular, is one of the best by international standards. In fact, it is hailed as the “City of Sails” because it features more boats per capita than anywhere in the world. A stunning panoramic view of the city and its surroundings can be had from the top of the circular glass viewing gallery of the Sky Tower.
If you are game for some exhilarating adventure, pass up on the elevator ride and go abseiling instead from the top of the tower right down to its base. If you still have time to spare, you can’t go wrong with a day trip to the nearby islands of the Hauraki Gulf. Just take the ferry from Waitamata harbor and you are on your way to an exciting beach getaway.
Driving trips are also ideal in the North Island of New Zealand. Take the Pacific Coast Highway and be treated to spectacular views of small inlets against the sparkling azure waters. You may want to stop by the popular resort destination of Tauranga in the Bay of Plenty. Its idyllic beaches are perfect for a wonderful day of relaxation that effectively rejuvenates the body and the spirit. You can also take a break at the inland orchards and enjoy the sweet tangy flavors of citrus and kiwi fruits. Wine lovers will be glad to know that the area boasts of an estimated 70 wineries with their doors open for exuberant wine tasting.
One additional delight is to explore Maori culture and heritage at the sun kissed territory of Northland. While in the area, enjoy the bounty of nature in the form of succulent tropical fruits and dazzling sandy beaches. Bay of Islands in the east coast is the place to go for some thrilling water fun adventures such as game fishing and sailing. Inland, you will find the Northland Forest Park that is just perfect for a lazy stroll. It features centuries old kauri trees that are quite a sight to see.
The central north island is a paradise for nature trippers and adventure seekers with its active geysers, live volcano, thrilling ski runs and towering mountain peaks. You also want to explore the western North Island for the enchanting limestone caves of Waitamo and the UNESCO Heritage Sites of Whanganui and Egmont National Parks, to name but a few.
Sunee is author of this article on Hotels in Thailand. Find more information about Phuket Hotels here.
No comments:
Post a Comment