Although it is one of the most isolated countries, it is also one of the great tourist destinations of the world and a perfect place to go if you live north of the equator and want to get away to a warmer climate.
So get packing. The Kiwi is their unofficial national symbol and the silver fern, which appears on sporting team uniforms, is an unofficial national emblem. I want to show you to some of the best places in both the North and the South Island including places to roam, places to stay, things to do and great food and wine to enjoy.
There are a couple of ports of entry to the country. We entered via Aukland, a modern and cosmopolitan city where the inhabitants are utterly obsessed with sailing. This is a great place to take some time to acclimate, get your bearings after a bit of jet lag and become used to listening to the Queen’s english. It is home to the All Blacks ruby team. Take in a game. Walk a beach. Cruise the islands of the Harakki Gulf on the milk and postal run boat. Stand on an extinct volcano of which there are many throughout the city or find a pub and enjoy some great beer and fabulous New Zealand wine.
Getting There: Air New Zealand leaves the west coast from Vancouver or LA. Have dinner and a movie, lean back and catch up on sleep. The wonderful attendants will wake you for breakfast. Watch another movie and land in the NZ morning. First Night Stay: Prices run the gamut depending on your budget. You will be jet lagged so why not have conveniences to walk to and from between naps. Hotels near the cruise terminal offer views and restaurants. Best view location is the Hilton at $300+ but there are others in the area as low as $100 per night. They are also within easy reach of the downtown which you might want to explore. Eating: Aukland is international so you can find anything your hear desires. This is a big island so I suggest trying the seafood. But if you want something meaty go for the lamb. And choose some of the finest wine to be found to wash it down. When in Rome and all that “Eh Mate”.
If you go: Temperatures are warm 9 months of the year and nicely moderated by the ocean. Summer clothes work but the nights get cool. Rain gear is a good idea. If you plan on going into the mountains bring warm clothes. Clean your hiking boots well. NZ wants to keep their country disease free. Customs will check your foot gear and you can be fined for bringing in soiled gear.
Money is easy. You can use your bank card to access $NZ at any ATM. All major credit cards are accepted. Prices are on par with North American less the exchange rate differential but gas is expensive.