New Zealand's spectacularly beautiful landscape includes vast mountain chains, steaming volcanoes, sweeping coastlines, deeply indented fiords, glaciers and lush rainforests. Comparable in size and/or shape to Great Britain, Colorado or Japan, New Zealand has a population of only 4 million - making it one of the world's least crowded countries. It is a haven for those seeking peace, rejuvenation and relaxation as well as a playground for thrill seekers and adventurers. A temperate climate with relatively small seasonal variation makes it an ideal year-round holiday destination. New Zealand's tourist routes are of a generally high standard and the main roads are sealed. All roads, including those in rural locations, are signposted. Self-driving holidays are one if the most relaxing ways of enjoying New Zealand's landscape. Many of the roads are scenic and traffic is low when compared to international standards. Although New Zealand is a relatively small country it can take many hours to drive between cities and other destinations of interest. Even when distances are short, hilly or winding terrain or narrow secondary roads can slow your journey.
	From luxury hotels to stylish country lodges and friendly backpackers hostels, New Zealand offers you a range of accommodation choices for every budget. If you are travelling independently, it's a good idea to book at least your first two nights in advance, and advisable to prebook during the busy summer period in New Zealand - from December to February, so you don't yourself spending all your time arranging accommodation instead of enjoying all this fabulous country has to offer.
	When you’re travelling New Zealand, it’s the natural attractions that put the magic in your day. Snowy mountains, volcanoes, delectable beaches, remote hiking trails, fiords, wilderness lakes and much, much more. As a country settled first by Polynesians and then by people from all over the world, New Zealand has many stories to tell. Dip into its history and explore the innovative, can-do culture.
	Extraordinary phenomena can be found throughout New Zealand. From the pointy absurdity of Toka Toka Peak in Northland to the South Island’s amazing fretwork of fiords, there’s plenty to keep your camera busy. Ice ages, fault lines, volcanic zones and tectonic plate movements have all made their mark on New Zealand. It is a dynamic environment, sandwiched between two oceans and perched on the Pacific Ring of Fire. When extreme events happen below or above the earth’s surface, unusual scenery is often the result.
	Take the south-western corner of the South Island as an example. Here a procession of ice ages wrought an impressive collection of fiords. Further up the coast, there are two glaciers that refuse to believe the ice age is over - they’re still creeping down into the rainforest.  For absolute in-your-face phenomena, the North Island never fails to satisfy. Active volcanic regions, including a marine volcano that you can walk through, are outward expressions of internal turmoil. Take a wander through the geothermal areas around Rotorua and Taupo - fumaroles, craters and geysers are endlessly fascinating. And what about boiling mud? It has to be the strangest thing you’ll ever find in a public park.
	One thing that all travellers want to do in New Zealand is walk – through forests, up mountains, along riverbanks and around lakes. It’s the easiest way to get into the landscape. New Zealand boast some spectacular walks, join the locals and go "tramping". On overnight hikes you can either 'rough it', sleeping out in tents or in more than 1,000 communal hikers’ huts, or choose a trail that offers luxury lodge accommodation and gourmet meals. You will need to book ahead to walk the popular Milford or Routeburn tracks between late October and late April each year.
	Experience one or more of New Zealand's spectacular train journeys. The TranzAlpine Express will take you between Christchurch and Greymouth over the Southern Alps. The TranzAlpine covers 223.8 kilometres in four and a half hours. There are 19 tunnels and four viaducts including the 73 metre high Staircase Viaduct. An outdoor viewing carriage will get you close to the fresh alpine air and spectacular scenery. There are several other spectacular journeys to enjoy by rail.
	New Zealand is a country with something to suit every age group and level of activity, from scenic drives, art galleries, cultural attractions, gardens, museums and performing arts, through to jetboating, skydiving, skiing, abseiling, kayaking, fishing, mountain biking and golf. Enjoy some of the world's best wines, and sample gourmet cuisine, New Zealand offers it all and more.

Click here for assistance on New Zealand