Pacific Region
New Zealand
Welcome to New Zealand
New Zealand is roughly the size of Japan, but unlike Japan with 125 million people, New Zealand has just 4.5 million. Just 12 hours from the USA, but in the Southern Hemisphere, we can enjoy winter sports from July to September and New Zealand’s warmest temperatures between December and March.
New Zealand is made up to two main islands and a few smaller ones as well. The North and South Islands can be explored with easy flights between all major cities, by scenic train to some locations, or in a camper van or car (driving on the left). Hiking and biking are also very popular.
Nearly every sport you can think of is available in NZ, plus a few more. The All Blacks are the national rubgy team and most beloved by the kiwis. Skiing and snowboarding are popular during the winter season and water sports, beaches, fishing, hiking and biking are just a few of the summer pastimes. Birders and nature enthusiasts will love seeing penguins, albatross, gannet, dolphins, whales and, of course, the flightless birds kiwi birds in their natural environments. Hiking and biking tracks, as well as one track for kayaks rival national park offerings worldwide with easy to follow trails and services for all levels of ability. Extreme and adventure sports abound with some opportunities that most Americans don’t even know exist.
Endless opportunities for food tastings, fine dining, wine and beer making are endless and varied in each region. Most vineyard welcome visitors for tastings, lunches and tours.
Cultural and historical experiences compete with movie locations and sets when it comes to deciding how to spend travel days. This is truly a destination with many things for everyone and most guests could be wanting more even after several weeks visiting this enchanted land.
