Explore a summer of possibilities in New Zealand

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Sites to See in New Zealand

How about seeing the best of New Zealand on your next holiday?

A hallmark of any trip is the great food and wine – from the vineyards around Auckland to the world-class wine region around Christchurch and Queenstown. While you’re there, take in the magnificent scenery of the Southern Alps, uncover some new walking trails, or challenge yourself to a bungee jump! There’s something for everyone: unspoiled beaches, glaciers, hot springs, mountains and so much more.

Find your inspiration and see the best of New Zealand this summer.

 

Let’s start in Auckland

Auckland Things to Do

Source: Miles Holden

If you’re flying in you will be all smiles as we reveal how close the Auckland Airport is to one of New Zealand’s best wineries, Villa Maria.  Yes, it’s only five minutes away and you’ll be tempted by the great music, food and wine at your doorstep.

Only 45 minutes from the city is Waiheke Island, surrounded by white sandy beaches alongside stunning vineyards.  Try your hand at archery or relax and indulge in New Zealand’s best food and wine.

 

Immerse yourself in Maori culture

Take off to Rotorua for a range of activities to keep you healthy and well this summer.  Discover more than 100 kilometres of walking trails suitable for exploration by all ages and abilities or, if you’re more adventurous, get on your bike and take a mountain biking expedition for the whole family. Return to the renowned geothermal hot springs and pools to refresh those weary bodies. Te Puia’s Whakarewarewa Valley, there are bubbling mud pools and the 30m-tall Pohutu Geyser, which erupts many times daily. It’s also home to a living Maori village and the New Zealand Maori Arts and Crafts Institute, with traditional wood carving and weaving schools.

 

Vivacious Wellington

One city to rule them all. For a luxurious break, head for the nation’s capital, Wellington, and see another side of the city that is affectionately known as “Wellywood”. Why? It is the home of Weta Studios and the film empire of Peter Jackson, the producer of the Lord of the Rings Trilogy and The Hobbit trilogy – take an insider’s tour of where the action was filmed and find yourself inside the Embassy Theatre where the grand opening was held.

Spend a weekend in Wellington discovering the history of New Zealand at the national museum Te Papa Tongarewa and take a stroll along Cuba Street Mall and Lambton Quay to take in the town’s shopping districts and a bite to eat in the wide range of local cafes and restaurants.

For a haven of relaxation, stay indoors at Spa InterContinental in the heart of the city, in Moroccan-inspired luxury, providing a sauna, hot tub, and the largest indoor heated hotel pool in Wellington.

 

Charming Christchurch

Christchurch, New Zealand Whale Watching Tours

Source: Getty Images

Continue to discover New Zealand as you uncover the many highlights on the South Island, starting in Christchurch, the garden city of the south.  Enjoy the stunning gardens and parks, the creative street art, the historical English-style buildings, or take a punt on the serene Avon River and one of the many walking tours around the city. Explore the city using these 10 best places to take photos in Christchurch.

Within a short drive you can play golf, raft, mountain bike, hot-air balloon, wind surf, whale watch and visit the wineries of the area, acclaimed around the world.

 

A for Adventure, Queenstown

Let’s finish on a high, literally, in the mountains and breathtaking scenery around the incomparable Queenstown, a city which never disappoints in summer (or winter). A mecca for adventure sports and a base to begin exploring the region’s vineyards and historic mining towns. In fact, you could take an extended vacation here and explore the South Island for two weeks.

You can start slow – hop on the TSS Earnslaw to steam across the waters of Lake Wakatipu to experience the natural beauty of the waterways, reflecting the splendour of the dramatic Southern Alps in the distance.

If adrenalin is on the agenda, shuffle to the edge, feel your heartbeat rise….. and jump. Bungy Jump Queenstown will be your destination for yet another unforgettable holiday experience.

Top photo: Miles Holden

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