Cheap Hotels in New Zealand

New Zealand

New Zealand has a population of 4,076,140 and this is mainly of European descent. The first known Europeans to reach New Zealand sailed up the West Coast in 1642. New Zealand born Europeans are collectively known as Pakeha and Christianity is the predominant religion. Although 70% of the population are New Zealand born, there are strong cultural influences from English, Scottish, Irish and Maori and this is constantly growing with new links to many other cultures across Europe and other areas of the world.

New Zealand consists of two large islands and many smaller islands surrounding it. Their closest neighbours are Fiji and Tonga. What attracts people to New Zealand is the amazing variety of landforms and how these differ across the regions, from sandy beaches, green farmlands and wineries to mountain ranges and alpine glaciers. New Zealand also has a unique range of evolved flora and fauna. The most famous native bird is the Kiwi, popularly known as the national symbol of New Zealand. However, there are many unique birds native to New Zealand such as the Kakapo Parrot and Moa. The marine life of New Zealand is one of the most recommended tourist experiences, offering whale watching and swimming with dolphins. 80% of New Zealand’s flowering plants, tree and ferns are native to the country. Different fascinating flora can be found in each region and 14 national parks contain a huge variety of unspoiled vegetation. There are two world heritage areas in New Zealand, one being the northern Tongariro containing the three active volcanos: Ngauruhoe, Mount Tongariro and Ruaphehu. Te Wahipounamu the other world heritage area is made from 4 national parks and is popular for Mount Cook which is New Zealand’s highest mountain.

New Zealand’s amazing landscapes have featured in numerous films and television shows such as Lord of the Rings, King Kong, The Chronicles of Narnia, The Last Samurai, Hercules and Xena.

New Zealand is recognised internationally for their success in Olympic Games and also has strong links with the Rugby Union. The All Blacks have the best winning record of any national rugby team.

Regions of New Zealand

New Zealand is split across two islands north and south, the total area of these is 268,680 square kilometres (103,738 square miles) and the southern island is the larger of the two.

The north offers Auckland one of the more well known regions of New Zealand being a blend of harbours, beaches, culture and modern city. New Zealand’s largest international airport is also situated here. The city of Auckland can be described as half urban half marine with over 50 islands dotted around it, which are beautiful spots to sail to. Lake Tauppo is also situated on the north island and is a spectacular place to visit, having been created as a result of the most violent volcanic eruptions in the last 5000 years, it is Australasia's largest lake. It offers trout fishing all year round and due to the volcanic activity there are many mud pools, steam vents and craters which make it even more fascinating and beautiful to explore. Wairarapa in the south east of the island offers history and culture through historic towns and villages. There are many wineries in this area to visit, and is also the perfect place for those who appreciate gourmet food. Places of interest in this area include Cape Palliser with its lighthouse and breeding colony of seals and Castlepoint where Castle Rock can be found which Captain Cook discovered in 1770.

In the southern island, the spectacular and sparsely populated West Cost can be found offering rivers of ice and the pancake rocks. Fiordland can also be found on the south island offering amazing landscapes, remote and carved by glaciers. The region of Marlborough is perfect for exploring by walking, biking and kayaking and is also the largest wine region. Marlborough is one of the most popular regions and is well known for its all year round sunshine and good weather! Lake Wanaka is especially well known as a winter destination for the sports on offer. Even throughout the summer months, this area provides beautiful sightseeing for sailors and walkers.

Wellington, situated on the southern tip of the northern island became the Capital of New Zealand in 1865 replacing Auckland. This is the ideal place to visit to discover art and culture through many outlets such as the National Museum, New Zealand Symphony Orchestra, National Opera Company and City Gallery. To enjoy dining and sampling of local cuisine the city offers more Café’s, Bars and Restaurants per head than New York City. Although a city populated by 400,000 people, visitors to the Wellington still enjoy the beautiful surroundings of hills and coastline. Walking tours, coach tours and helicopter tours are available to enjoy these sites. Wellington beaches also offer great activities such as surfing, water skiing and fishing.

Climate in New Zealand

Although the warmest months for New Zealand are November to April, the weather is never so poor that you would choose not to travel there at that time, in fact the region of Marlborough is well known for all year round good weather. There are relatively small changes between the summer and winter months, due to being in the Southern Hemisphere. The Western and Southern coasts are the wettest areas and the northern areas are most tropical.

Severe alpine conditions are found in the mountainous areas. Ski resorts are busiest during the winter months, and when visiting during peak times such as Christmas much advance booking is recommend.

New Zealand Embassy

For your convenience we have listed New Zealand embassys below. Embassys can provide you with information regarding visas and other important travel information.