New Zealand Travel Information

New Zealand is most famous for its kiwi birds, kiwi fruits, a love of rugby and most recently, as the filming location for the Lord of the Rings film trilogy.

Many people are, however, unaware of its geography, Maori heritage, landmarks and top destinations. The country is made up of two main islands - the larger of which is the south island, although the north island has a higher population. Both islands collectively are about the size of California - slightly larger than Great Britain.

North Island

The north island is home to two important cities; Auckland in the north, and the nation’s capital – Wellington, located in the south. Travel by car between these two cities takes 9 and a quarter hours, so every location on the island is easily accessible.

South Island

The south island is home to lakes, mountain ranges, rivers, forests, and down the centre of the island run the Southern Alps. The island has ten national parks which boast an abundance of World Heritage listed sites, glaciers, ski-areas, and scenic coastline. Kaikoura, in the north of the island, is the main location for whale and dolphin watching - the south island truly is a nature lover’s haven.