Australians make up half of New Zealand’s tourism numbers each year, and these images prove why we love it.
Size wise, New Zealand may be a small country, but in terms of what it has to offer in the areas of natural beauty, delicious fresh foods and outdoor adventure, it’s a giant.
Just a short three-hour flight from Australia’s east coast gateways, you’ll find New Zealand’s diverse landscape open for exploration – a place that entices with its breathtaking scenery.
Dubbed the ‘land of the long white cloud’, New Zealand is made up of several key ingredients – towering mountains and jagged glaciers, wide-open fjords and picturesque coves, and of course, the homespun quaintness of its rolling hills and fertile fields.
North Island
New Zealand’s North Island is known for its geothermal activity, and the small town of Rotarua is one place where you can see it bubble to the surface – quite literally. Slightly smaller in size than the South Island, the northern half has three times the population. Its warmer climate also offers quality beach time during the summer months.
Home to the country’s capital city of Wellington, and the largest city, Auckland, the North Island offers plenty of urban appeal too.
From shopping and dining, to the arts and entertainment, these cities are filled with upbeat streets and trendy neighbourhoods. And of course, there’s lots to enjoy in the way of outdoor scenery too.
South Island
Long roads with dramatic mountain scenery will greet you at every turn on the South Island. Perfect for a family getaway or couple’s road trip, the South Island is a veritable bread basket when it comes to food and wine excursions.
Marine and bird life are found in an abundance as well, while Queenstown holds the crown as the nation’s adventure capital.
The South Island is also blessed with stunning natural attractions like Fiordland National Park, Milford Sound and Doubtful Sound. Other draw-cards include Fox Glacier, the thermal pools of Hanmer Springs north of Christchurch and the crystal clear waters of Lake Tekapo.
In case you needed more convincing, here are some images that are sure to inspire you to make New Zealand your next ‘must-see’ destination.
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