Travel To New Zealand - Land Of The Long White Cloud

By Dorcas Chras

Called the land of the long white cloud by its native people, New Zealand has a lot to offer its visitors. From extreme and adventure sports to exotic wildlife and fine wines, New Zealand is sure to give you a vacation that will live long and clear in your memory. Before you plan your itinerary to travel to New Zealand, read on to discover some of the top travel spots.

Tourists who travel to New Zealand typically arrive via Auckland's international airport. While in Auckland take the opportunity to visit one of the most biologically rich marine parks in the world. On a cruise of Auckland's Hauraki Gulf you will get the chance to see whales and dolphins and other local marine life. Taking a climbing tour of the Auckland Harbor Bridge is a great way to catch a bird's eye view of the city and an exhilarating experience for those brave enough to try it.

Think of the bridge climb as an appetizer for the adrenaline rush that is Queenstown. If you are an adventure lover, then this is your Mecca. Queenstown is in the business of serious fun. Here you can try bungee jumping, skiing, snowboarding, jet boating and many other activities not for the weak of stomach.

After speeding about Queenstown, it is time to take it down a notch or two with a tour of the Queenstown wine trail. Many of the country's wines are produced in the vineyards outside of Queenstown and there are tours that will take you to sample the best drops.

From Queenstown you can travel through the beautiful scenery of Otago to New Zealand's highest mountain, Mt. Cook. Taking a helicopter ride over the mountains is a once in a lifetime experience and a chance to appreciate the magnificent beauty of New Zealand.

Maoris are the indigenous New Zealanders and they have retained their rich culture and heritage in the face of colonization by the British. While in New Zealand do not miss the opportunity to get acquainted with its indigenous culture.

Ko Tane is a living Maori village located inside the Willowbank Nature Reserver outside of Christchurch. This is the perfect place to see how Maori lived before the Europeans arrived. Here you can see many Maori ceremonies, dance and traditions come to life before your eyes.

Rotarua, on the north island, is a hot spot for geothermic activity. At Wai Ora natural hot springs you can experience the healing mud baths that have been invigorating visitors to the area for around a thousand years.

New Zealand has so much to offer a visitor: fun, action, great food and wine, natural beauty and rich culture all rolled into an accessible and cost effective location. Travel to New Zealand and you will arrive home with lifelong memories. - 30413

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