New Zealand: The Land of Wonder
Taking a holiday to New Zealand has become a very popular idea for a lot of people due to the impression made by the stunning scenery seen in Peter Jackson’s Lord of the Rings trilogy. Vast mountain ranges, sweeping plains and meadows, and beautiful clear lakes have all contributed to the idea that New Zealand is one of the most beautiful places in the world to travel to and this idea is well founded.
New Zealand seemingly has something for everyone, with idyllic beaches, extreme sports such as bungee jumping and sky-diving, as well as a fantastic culture to explore. You’d be hard pressed to find the time to be bored in such a diverse country, especially if you are going for two weeks or less.
One of the benefits of taking a holiday to New Zealand is undoubtedly the weather. Due to the seasons being the reverse to the UK, escaping the cold weather in December is easy to do, and a flight to New Zealand will land you in the heart of the summer heat. Although the weather can change fairly rapidly from being sunny to a downpour, this shouldn’t dampen your spirits too much, as there are plenty of attractions to keep you entertained as well as dry.
Top Attractions in New Zealand:
- Sky Tower – Auckland
The Sky Tower in Auckland is the tallest building in New Zealand, and offers an absolutely stunning panoramic view for visitors. If you are amongst the bravest adventurers, then you can even choose to jump from the top of the tower with the very popular ‘SkyJump’ activity.
Price of admission from – NZ$25 adults, NZ$8 children.
- City Gallery – Wellington
An outstanding art gallery located in the heart of the nations’ capital offering innovations in style, and contemporary exhibitions for perusal at your leisure. With free entry this is a must for anyone visiting Wellington.
- Rainbow Springs wildlife reserve – Rotorua
A marvellous wildlife reserve situated on a gorgeous natural spring, there are unique opportunities to see wildlife up close and personal with daytime and night time tours available. Highly recommended is the illuminated night time tour, which will take your breath away.
Admission prices – NZ$30 adults, NZ$17.50 children (under 5’s admission is free).
- Mount Cook Air Safari
If you love Lord of the Rings then this is a priority attraction for you. A unique chance to take to the skies to view the majesty of these stunning mountains from a new perspective. Don’t forget to take your iPod and Lord of the Rings soundtrack!
Flights start from NZ$325 for an adult and NZ$215.
- Dolphin Encounter – Kaikoura
Swimming with dolphins is the number one must-do thing on many people’s ‘bucket list’ and Dolphin Encounter offers this experience to hundreds of people each year. With a firm commitment to conserving the environment and maintain the peaceful nature of the dolphins habitat, you will spend hours having some face time with these magnificent creatures.
Prices start at NZ$80.
Taking a trip to New Zealand is one that you will never forget, and one that you will want to go on time after time. With many special offers to be found throughout the year, you will be spoilt for choice as to where to go and what to do. Prepare to be spellbound.
Tom is a travel writer and fan of the Lord of the Rings trilogy. He often goes on holiday to New Zealand and is planning two New Zealand tours 2012.
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