- Information
- History
- Weather
- When to go
- Costs
- Culture
- Food
- Glossary
- Traveler Advice
- Forums
48HourVisit.com
Planning a short visit? Check out 48HourVisit.com, your online guide for short stays and weekend getaways. Ad
New Zealand Travel Guide
New Zealand is perhaps most known as the magical setting of the land called “Middle-earth,” thanks to the hit movie trilogy The Lord of the Rings. Some 2.2 million foreign visitors head to the country every year, drawn to its craggy coastlines, snow-covered mountains, volcanic hot springs and winding rivers. The downside, however, is that the horde of tourists threatens to reverse its laid-back demeanor and pristine environment.
In 1768, the British explorer James Cook put the country under the British crown. It is largely made up two islands: North and South, which are separated only by the 23-kilometer wide Cook Strait. Many refer to it as one of the most recently-settled landmasses in the world, as well as one of the most prosperous.
Land of the Long White Cloud
The ancient people who first lived in New Zealand had a different name for the land. The called it “Aotearoa” which roughly means “land of the long white cloud.” Travelers, though, like to call it the “Paradise of the Pacific,” which in this case is extremely apt. The country always figures in the list of best destinations by travel guides, especially because of its natural beauty and its famed eco-tourism.
But more so than anything, New Zealand is a haven for the certified adrenaline junkies. Its craggy cliffs at Nevis, Taupo and Mangaweka invite a breathtaking dive. Its rapids, on the other hand, are meant for some serious white-water rafting, especially at Mohaka, Kaituna, and Whanganui River. Some of the best surfing breaks in the world can be caught at sites like Raglan, while leisurely boat rides are available at the Bay of Islands and the famous Milford Sound.
Embracing the Indigenous
New Zealand is also known for its traditions and culture that have survived to this day, even with the advent of the modern age. Some 2,000 years ago, settlers from Eastern Polynesia arrived at the land's shores - and over the centuries became a distinct tribe now known as the Maori. Unlike in other countries, however, their culture lives in the mainstream, particularly because it recognizes and celebrates its indigenous roots.
A significant percentage of New Zealand's population still speaks the Maori language, and is the largest minority in the country. Some of their festivals and traditions are still observed today. The Maori culture is perhaps best experienced in Rotorua (largest Maori settlement in the country), where one can live among the tribes and be one of them - even for a while.
New Zealand Landmarks:
New Zealand Traveler Advice
User blogs:
The Easy Way to Find Your Next Flight
Not everyone has experienced the convenience of looking for and booking air travel online. For some people who are not used to online shopping, or for those learning how to browse for the first time it can be a little intimidating at first. It seems like there are a lot of advertisements telling people where to go to book their flight online, but not many articles that take a step-by-step approach ... Read full Blog post
The biggest problem traveling with Bike
The biggest problem for traveling by bike is Transport to the start and from the end of our trip. As a personal trainer I had no big problem with this but I remember like it was yesterday, especially when they come these hot days, when we were kids (that a few decades ago) the only opportunity we had to practice was to grab our bikes cycling, upload them to the door of our house and out from ... Read full Blog post
Volunteering for typhoon Ketsana victims
“There’s nothing stronger than the heart of a volunteer,” says a general in the movie Pearl Harbor. True enough, typhoon Ondoy (internationally nicknamed Ketsana) may have proven its might by destroying hundreds of lives and hundreds more in houses and properties, yet this monster-of-a-calamity did not win in devastating the faith and Good Samaritan-spirit of thousands of men and ... Read full Blog post
Destinations
See AllIn our Magazine
Summer Destination to Avoid: Gulf of Mexico
EPA is failing to do their job monitoring the air and reporting factual data. The people need to be made aware that their lives and long term livelihood are at stake because of the air quality in Gulf of Mexico.
How to Avoid Traveling Troubles
Traveling to a certain destination might not become memorable if there are too many troubles along the way. Remember that even the best trips are usually not trouble-free. Follow these tips that help lessen the hassles.
Unique Toys from Japan
Japan is known for its fascinating, and sometimes, eccentric culture. From anime, karaoke, to advanced technology, the Land of the Rising Sun always has something unique to offer.
