About New Zealand

Mapua, South Island
Fresh seafood Mapua, South Island

New Zealand is a country small in size and abundant in beauty. Spectacular mountains and coastal scenery, lush forests, wide braided rivers, blue lakes and a clean atmosphere are just a few of the defining features. Local food is plentiful with fresh seafood, indigenous fruits, venison and award-winning wines and beers. Add the warmth and friendliness of the locals and you'll never want to go home.

Similar in size to the state of California, the land of New Zealand is amazingly diverse. The North Island is known for its active volcanic mountains, hot springs and rolling green hills. The South Island is covered by the massive Southern Alps, larger than all of the Alps in Europe. Only in New Zealand can you explore the world's steepest glaciers, rainforest-clad mountains and untouched fiords.

With a population of only four million people, New Zealand is one of the world's least crowded countries. It is a haven for those seeking peace and relaxation, and also a capital of adventure. Tranquil travelers will enjoy nature walks, wildlife viewing, wine tours, whale watching, art galleries and much more. Those looking for a more exhilarating vacLake Matheson, West Coast, South Islandation can enjoy hiking, skiing, biking, surfing, swimming with dolphins, rafting and kayaking.

New Zealand is an ideal year-round holiday destination with a temperate climate and relatively small seasonal variation. The summer months of December through February are the busiest, making booking ahead imperative. As winter takes overin June through August, ski resort towns fill up. A great time to travel is in the shoulder season months of November and March, where you might feel as if you have the country to yourself.

With New Zealand Travel Designers mapping out your perfect holiday, you'll experience the very best that New Zealand has to offer. Come and see it all for yourself!

Lake Matheson, West Coast NZ

General New Zealand Links

www.airnz.com - New Zealand’s favourite airline for international and domestic flights
www.qantas.com – for international flights
www.flypacificblue.com - for flights within NZ and also for Australia and the Pacific Islands
www.webjet.co.nz – for flights within NZ and also Australia
www.metservice.co.nz – New Zealand weather
www.tepapa.govt.nz - Museum of New Zealand
www.doc.govt.nz - Department of Conservation management of our parks
www.immigration.govt.nz – for all information on living and working in NZ