travel

For most people, at least in the westernized world, December is the time of mad preparations for the upcoming holidays. Here in New Zealand, it's also the time for getting reading for the big summer break, bringing back the BBQ, and of course Christmas parties. So while most of the world is covered with blankets of snow and cold climate New Zealand basks in glorious sunshine. This makes it the best time to visit New Zealand and enjoy her many splendors.
Getting around the country is relatively simple. Cycling, hitching and driving hire cars or campervans are all popular and there are many all-inclusive conducted coach tours on offer. Finding accommodation is easy and it’s only during the high season (December-February) that you need to book well in advance.
New Zealand's main scenic highlights can be seen on an intensive two week itinerary but really you need at least four to six weeks to gain the most benefit out of your visit down under. This allows time to explore some of the fascinating wilderness areas, including the unspoilt native forests and dramatic alpine and coastal areas. A surprising one third of the total land area is conservation estate, protected by the Department of Conservation. Access for bushwalking, kayaking, tramping, climbing, hunting and saltwater fishing is absolutely free. Fresh water fishing and hunting require permit applications. Permits, wilderness hut passes, local maps and guides can be obtained for a small charge from Conservation offices.
Here’s a list of my favorite Holiday Destinations of New Zealand:
Bay of Islands
The Bay of Island’s natural beauty is a sight to behold. It is one of the most beautiful New Zealand travel destinations. This aquatic playground, lavishly furnished with 144 islands and a myriad of secluded beaches, keeps visitors entertained for days. Every bay, shore and cove has a story to tell. The townships of this historic bay are alive with memories of the area’s colorful history. Visitors can explore the well-preserved Maori and European relics of the past. The Bay of Islands is considered to be the birthplace of New Zealand as a bi-cultural nation, and today you can see how Maori culture and lifestyle have adapted to modern times.
Lake Taupo
As the largest fresh water lake in Oceania, Lake Taupo is a dominating presence in this region. At 616 square km, it is as big as Singapore Island and was created in 181 AD, by one of the largest eruptions the world has ever seen. Volcanic action created a landscape of bubbling craters, mud pools and steam vents ensuring visitors are aware of the regions turbulent past. Maori mythology is richly interwoven with the landscapes creation.
Martinborough
Nestled in a river valley beneath the Tararua and Rimutaka mountain ranges, the Martinborough area produces some of the world’s top wines, particularly the Pinot Noir variety. The boutique scale of the village, with its leafy square, numerous restaurants and heritage architecture, has made it a popular retreat for people wanting to get ‘off the beaten track’. With many of its boutique wineries in walking distance of the square, it has become popular with wine lovers.
Rotorua
Rotorua's reputation as the ‘natural spa destination of the South Pacific’ began 160 years after word of the Pink and White Terraces spread worldwide. Visitors were drawn to the area for its natural therapeutic waters. Today, Rotorua is undergoing a renaissance in the range of spa treatments on offer. It’s a unique chance to refresh and revitalize body and mind. From the moment you enter the region, it’s apparent you’re in a geothermal wonderland, close to ‘The Spirit of the Earth’. Sneaky threads of steam issue from parks, pathways and streets, and the occasional scent of sulphur wafts through the air – a hint of what's in store. Minutes from the city centre, geysers of steaming water roar from the ground and pools of bubbling mud gurgle.