In New Zealand nature reigns supreme. Unspoilt coastlines, lush vegetation, amazing wildlife and a moderate climate make it ideal for visitors wanting to enjoy the outdoors or simply relax. Consisting of two main islands - North and South - New Zealand is similar in size to Japan and Great Britain, but has a population of around 4.3 million. The country's dynamic culture has European, Maori, Pacific and Asian influences and its people, often referred to as Kiwis, are hospitable and friendly. The wild natural beauty of New Zealand is reflected in its people whose attributes include a certain adaptability, self-sufficiency and an affinity for wild landscapes and the ocean.

A major attraction for visitors to New Zealand is the short distance between starkly differing landscapes. The sparsely populated Northland area comprises mainly rolling farmland fringed with spectacular bays and beaches. Travelling down country to the Taupo/Ruapehu District in the centre of the North Island are memorable snowy mountains, sparkling rivers leading into a mighty lake and thermal outlets with steaming water. Rotorua's active volcanoes, massive craters, boiling mud, exploding geysers and unspoiled native forests have enchanted visitors from around the world for more than 160 years.

In the South Island, the West Coast's glorious Southern Alps plunge westward through luxuriant rainforest to a breathtaking coast. Packed in between the imposing peaks and wild Tasman Sea are bizarre landscapes of limestone, granite and glacial ice, tranquil lakes, rushing rivers, subtropical and temperate rainforest and rare birds and plants. Near the south of the South Island, surrounded by majestic mountains and enjoying the stunning weather of four distinct seasons is Queenstown, one of New Zealand's premier holiday destinations. The immense Fiordland National Park takes in the whole southwest corner of New Zealand and contains the breathtaking Milford Sound. The thick forest is virtually untouched by humans.

If it's modern-city sophistication and excitement you're looking for you'll find it in New Zealand's four main centres - Auckland (the largest city) and Wellington (the capital) in the North Island and Christchurch and Dunedin in the South Island. The eclectic mix of culture, theatre, art, fashion, and world-class attractions provide an array of cosmopolitan experiences. For more information on New Zealand regions/districts, please select from the menu.