New Zealand is named after the Dutch province of Zeeland. The country is called Aotearoa in Maori. The country was discovered at the end of 1642 by the Dutch explorer Abel Tasman, who then thought he was dealing with the south of South America. New Zealand is one of the most isolated countries in the world. A journey from Western Europe to New Zealand, including transfers, easily takes 24 hours. Those who take the trouble to make this journey will be rewarded with a beautiful country full of beautiful nature. Check topmbadirectory for how to get to New Zealand.
Top 10 New Zealand attractions
#1. National parks
New Zealand is often praised for its exceptionally beautiful nature. It is therefore not surprising that this country has no less than 14 national parks. In addition, there are about 20 nature management parks, 2500 reserves and 14 marine reserves. The 14 national parks together have an area of approximately 29,000 km². Well-known parks are Abel Tasman National Park, Fiordland National Park, Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, Arthur’s Pass National Park, Mount Aspiring National Park, Paparoa National Park, Te Urewera National Park and Whanganui National Park. Check simplyyellowpages for mass media and culture of New Zealand.
#2. North Island
New Zealand actually consists of two main islands. North Island and South Island and some small islands. The North Island is particularly characterized by (active) volcanoes, geysers and hot springs. Noordereiland has a very special hill. Especially because of his name.
It is often shortened to Taumata. A free translation is: The top of the hill where Tamatea, the man with the big knees, who beat down, climbed and swallowed the mountains to cross the land, known as the Land Eater, played his nose flute for his beloved. At Mount Maunganui, a suburb of Tauranga, there is a bay where national surfing championships are held every year.
#3. South Island
This other big island of New Zealand is at least as amazing as the North Island. The island is alone without active volcanoes. There are, however, several fjords to be found. The best known are in the Fjordland region. These are the fjords of Doubtful and Milford Sound. What makes this South Island very special is the fact that east and west are separated by the New Zealand Alps. This ridge has peaks of up to 3764 meters high.
#4. Wellington
The capital of New Zealand is sure to leave a big impression. Wellington is therefore often referred to as New Zealand’s favorite destination. Praise includes the amount of qualified restaurants, tourist and cultural attractions and the compactness of the city. For example, the very famous Te Papa Tongarewa Museum can be found here. Many festivals know their way to this bustling city very well. But the film industry, music industry, visual arts and theater can also be discovered here. Don’t forget to visit Wellington Harbor by night. Everything is possible in this ‘cool’ capital.
#5. Stewart Island
Stewart Island is located below South Island. The Freshwater River creates a swampy valley. The only village where all the inhabitants of this island live is Oban, which is located near Half Moon Bay. With a ferry service it is possible to cross from here to Bluff on the South Island. The island has a very beautiful natural park ‘National Park Rakiura’. One of New Zealand’s national characteristics is the flightless kiwi. These kiwis are common in this national park. Because there are few natural predators for kiwi, this is the best place to observe them.
#6. Auckland
Auckland is a densely populated city with over 1.4 million inhabitants. There is a very spacious harbor with at least 135,000 yachts. It is not for nothing that this city is nicknamed the ‘City of Sails’. The city has many shopping areas in well-known streets such as Queen Street, Karangahape Road and Ponsonby Road. There are plenty of museums to visit, such as the Colin McCahon, Auckland War Memorial Museum, Auckland Art Gallery and New Zealand National Maritime Museum. Plenty to see and do in this vibrant city.
#7. Milford Sound
The Milford Sound is the most famous fjord in Fjordland. You will find this particularly beautiful natural phenomenon in the Fiordland National Park. The highest point of this fjord is located at an altitude of 1692 meters and is called Miter Peak. According to hiking experts, the most beautiful hiking trail in the world would end in Milford Sound.
#8. Queenstown
Queenstown is the place to be for adventure and sports. Queenstown is known as an international center for adventure sports. Queenstown is located on Lake Wakatipu, which was once a glacier. Every five minutes the water rises and falls for a 7cm. Close to Queenstown is a peninsula where you will find the Queenstown Gardens, with its beautiful rose beds. There are several ski areas such as Coronet Peak and Remarkables. Queenstown has also been the location for many of the film ‘The Lord of the Rings’.
#9. Te Papa Tongarewa museum
The free museum ‘Te Papa Tongarewa’ is the national museum of New Zealand. There is a lot to be found about the Maori culture, but also the history and nature of New Zealand is discussed. The museum covers an area of 36,000 m² and has a number of outdoor locations, nature reserves and caves.
#10. Waitomo
Waitomo is an area in New Zealand that is fairly quiet. Nevertheless, there is a lot to see and experience. For example, learn more about the New Zealand “glowworm”. For example, why do they glow. Visit one of the 300 caves and discover the Waitomo limestone from more than 30 million years ago. Or trek through the most beautiful spots of Waitomo by horse.
