New Zealand Travel – Something For Everyone

Travelers Down Under Enjoy Many Different Experiences

Apr 6, 2009

From five-star hotels to comfy bed and breakfasts, New Zealand has accommodation for all. Adventure tourism and leisurely activities cater for all ages and abilities.

Hotels, motels, backpackers, bed and breakfasts, camping grounds, and lodges from unadorned to luxury can be found throughout New Zealand. Booking is essential, especially in the high season October-April.

Backpackers, Bed-and-Breakfasts and Camping Grounds

Most camping grounds are well-equipped with decent kitchens, laundries and clean ablution blocks. Camping grounds are often situated within a short walk of beaches, and may also be found in quite remote regions. There are excellent backpackers in most areas, many situated close to the CBD and near to public transport routes. Bed-and-breakfast facilities may be shared with the resident family, or visitors may have separate quarters. Travelers should clarify arrangements so that expectations are clear for both host and visitor.

The Taste of New Zealand

New Zealand has embraced the café culture, with numerous cafes serving diverse food styles. Ethnic outlets are well represented, as are the major fast food chains, e.g. KFC, McDonalds, Burger King, Starbucks. Traditional New Zealand food may be sampled in restaurants or as part of the tourism experience. An agricultural island-nation, New Zealand produces world-class wines, meats, dairy products, fruits and vegetables.

New Zealanders Drive on the Left Side of the Road

Rental vehicles can be collected at point of arrival, most frequently Auckland International Airport in the North Island, which receives flights daily from all points of the compass. New Zealanders drive on the left. The country has an efficient system of highways and byways with new sights unfolding at the turn of each corner. Visitors are often intrigued and sometimes discomforted by the narrow, winding roads in some areas. When traveling on these roads it is imperative to drive at the speed (or less) indicated by road signs and to keep to the left.

The Volcanic Hinterland: Geysers, Mud Pools, Hot Springs and Silica Deposits

New Zealand’s volcanic hinterland is a major attraction for visitors. Rotorua in the North Island is the tourism centre of thermal activity and is easily accessible by air or road. Geysers, mud pools, silica deposits and hot springs feature throughout the district. Rotorua is also a significant region for Maori culture and heritage, and there are several tourism operators who concentrate on this experience.

New Zealand has 18,000km of Coastline and Many Inland Waterways

With 18,000km of coastline as well as many inland lakes and waterways, New Zealand has water-based activities to please travelers of all ages and abilities. The white-sand beaches of the east coast are perfect for sun-bathing, beach-combing, walking or a spot of fishing off the local wharf. Penguins gannets, whales, dolphins and other marine species can be observed in their natural environment. The more adventurous might choose whitewater rafting, sea or river kayaking, jet-boating, bungee jumping , 'swooping', or deep-sea diving. There are many other activities to test the mettle of the most timid or intrepid traveler including glacier or bush walks, golfing, horse treks, caving, or simply enjoying the sights.

New Zealand’s climate ranges from sub-tropical in the north, to temperate and below freezing in central and southern areas. Temperatures in some regions can change swiftly and travelers, especially hikers into bush country or mountainous areas, are strongly advised to be well-informed and well-prepared for sudden changes, even if only venturing on a day’s excursion.

The copyright of the article New Zealand Travel – Something For Everyone in New Zealand Travel is owned by Lyn Rasmussen. Permission to republish New Zealand Travel – Something For Everyone in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.