New Zealand Tourism

History of New Zealand 

The history of New Zealand is as old as 700 years. It was during those years when New Zealand was discovered. The Polynesians were the first people to settle here. It was the Polynesians who developed the M?ori culture in relation with this land. The Dutch navigator Abel Tasman was the first European explorer who came here on 13 December 1642. Captain James Cook reached here in the year 1769 during one of his three voyages. Post the 18th century, the country has been visited by many explorers, sailors, traders and adventurers. Throughout the eighteenth century, the British resided her extensively. Post the wars in New Zealand, most of the area of New Zealand was handed to P?keh? (European) which gradually grew better. It will always be a delight to visit this wonderful country.

Famous Food in New Zealand

Start with the traditional Maori Hangi which is meat and veggies slow cooked in an underground oven and another Maori favourite Kumara which is a variety of sweet potato. Seafood is obviously very popular, especially the Kiwi favourite Crayfish, paua – sea snails and Kina – a sea urchin.

Major Festivals in New Zealand

One of the main cultural festivals of New Zealand is the Pasifika festival, which is a celebration of the native Polynesian culture of the country. 11 villages come together to celebrate this. Auckland Lantern Festival and Chinese New Year are quite big as well. Other than that, there are multiple food and wine festivals, music fests and religious celebrations. The holiday season around Christmas here is quite a charming one.   

Romantic destinations in New Zealand

A New Zealand vacation can quite easily be a great romantic getaway. While the cities of New Zealand are definitely perfect for sightseeing and night-time excitement, there are many hidden gems of natural bounty in New Zealand, which any couple should seek out for on a trip. Only one small ferry ride away from Auckland is the mesmerizing Waiheke Island with pristine beaches and sprawling vineyards. Another great seaside destination is the Coromandel Peninsula. Do consider the hot spring geysers of Rotorua, hiking trails, and cruising trips of Marlborough and serene beauty of Milford Sound when you visit New Zealand.

Beach destinations of New Zealand

Being an island country, New Zealand is home to many gorgeous beaches all around the country, in both the islands. Cathedral Cove, Ninety Mile Beach, and Mission Bay Beach are certainly some of the best. Medlands Beach and Awaroa Inlet in the Abel-Tasman Coastal Track are not to be missed either. One can discover New Zealand in a completely different light in these tranquil beaches.

Here are some of the other best New Zealand cities to visit.

1. Wellington

The capital of New Zealand is also one of the best cities of the country, with a lovely urban fabric, waterfront promenade, sandy beaches, and lots of wind whistling around all day long. Located near the North Island’s southernmost point, Cook Strait, Wellington is quite laid back a town, despite being the capital city.

2. Auckland

Auckland is hands down the most dazzling city of New Zealand. It has the highest population, most number of urban attractions, and travelling here is quite expensive as well. Despite that, Auckland draws an extensive crowd every year to its sprawling streets. From the iconic Sky Tower right down to the Mission Bay Beach seaside promenade, Auckland is quite a treat to explore.

3. Christchurch

Christchurch is the largest city in the South Island of New Zealand. This city upholds the English heritage of New Zealand history explicitly, thanks to the many vintage stone building that dots the city streets. The city is centred on the Avon River where there are many narrow, flat-bottomed punts gliding through for a tour.

4. Queenstown

Queenstown alone ticks all the boxes for a New Zealand tour. On one hand, it displays an authentic Kiwi culture in every part of the city, while on the other hand there are more than enough outdoor activities to indulge in, ranging from easy to extreme. There is also the dramatic beauty of Lake Wakatipu, set against the Southern Alps.

5. Hamilton

Hamilton is not the most popular name on any New Zealand tour itinerary, but it is an essential one if you want to know as much as you can about the vibrant indigenous Maori culture and other cultural events of the history. Located in the Waikato region of North Island, Hamilton’s map is dotted with museums, galleries and theme parks, as well as restaurants, bars and cafes.  

Adventure Activities

Heli-skiing in New Zealand - heli-skiing is the art of skiing downhill and off-trail by a helicopter instead of a ski lift. In earlier times, remote terrains of Alaska and Europe were reached by helicopter. In a few years, it was converted into a commercialized activity. Adventure-lovers can reach the top of a terrain in New Zealand by a helicopter and then start skiing. 

Jump off the Sky Tower - to try the electrifying bungee jumping in New Zealand, reach at the top of Nevis or Kawarau and jump off the highest point. If you wish to try an off-beat bungy experience, head to Taupo Bungy on the Waikato River. Feel your heartbeat racing as you jump from the top of a tower or cliff. Safety instructions must be followed carefully. 

Ride the rapids - New Zealand offers a host of options to try river rafting at - from the highest rafted waterfall in the world(commercially) in Rotorua to a gentle river in Queenstown. Depending upon your experience and preference, you may choose any of the popular rafting spots in the country. Feel your heart pumping as you row against the high tides splashing over.

New Zealand tour can be real fun if you do not miss our any of these activities or places to visit. It is a charmingly beautiful country that entices every visitor. Plan a smart itinerary to cover most of the best things in New Zealand. Whether you are travelling with friends or family, you can always have a good time in New Zealand. Be it shopping or adventure or sightseeing, New Zealand will provide you all.