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Throughout this incredible country you’ll find everything from untamed wilderness to rich culture. We invite you to discover the dramatic landscapes, lush native forests and unique wildlife that make New Zealand (or Aotearoa in Māori — “the land of the long white cloud”) such an unforgettable vacation choice.
New Zealand is diverse, sophisticated, and multicultural — plus the honesty, friendliness, and genuine hospitality of the people (Kiwis) will leave a lasting impression. While the country is known for adventure activities, pristine outdoors and Middle Earth attractions, there’s a range of experiences for all types of visitors to enjoy. And it’s never been easier to get there, thanks to non-stop flights from seven U.S. gateways on over six airlines.
Manuhiri (visitors) to Aotearoa New Zealand will find an abundance of amazing experiences year-round. But the spring and fall are particularly excellent times to travel thanks to fewer crowds, temperate weather and favorable deals on accommodations and experiences.
Must Do New Zealand Experiences
Experience Māori culture and the manaakitanga (hospitality) of New Zealand. Make the connection between the past, present and future when you enjoy one of the Māori activities. Visit the geothermal valley of Te Puia or the living village of Te Pa Tu, learn about the first arrivals at Manea Footprints of Kupe or the influence of Europeans at The Waitangi Treaty Grounds or stand among giants in the Waipoua Forest, home to Tāne Mahua, the country’s largest kauri tree.
Enjoy the truly unique flavors and freshness of New Zealand’s Food & Drink as you make your way around the country. Some local favorites include crayfish (lobster) and seafood, succulent and tender grass-fed lamb, a Māori hāngi (traditional earth oven style of cooking), artisan cheese and wash it all down with an award-winner Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc, craft beer or New Zealand crafted spirits.
There are so many options for enjoying New Zealand’s Outdoor Activities and Wildlife. Discover rugged coastlines, native forests or dramatic mountains with one of the easily accessible Great Walks. Get up close to wildlife — swim with playful dolphins or hear the birdsong of some cheeky feathered friends. Stargaze in one of the dark sky reserves. Explore areas shaped by volcanic and geothermal forces. Enjoy spotting one of three species of penguins, including the world’s smallest, the korora (or little blue penguin).
Looking for Adventure? New Zealand is known as the home of adventure tourism. Zipline your way past the stunning harbor views on Waiheke Island or the treetops of Rotorua. Leap off waterfalls, slide down rocks, scramble, climb, jump and abseil with Canyoning. Or feel the power as you jet-boat on Lake Taupo next to thundering Huka Falls or negotiate 360-degree spins while exploring the Dart River. It’s the perfect playground combining adrenaline, nature and speed.
More than 20 years after the first Lord of the Rings movie, New Zealand is still known as the ‘Home of Middle-Earth™.’ Today you can enjoy many of the filming locations from the LOTR and Hobbit trilogies. Visit Hobbiton Movie Set™ for a guided tour of The Shire. The former film set comprises the Millhouse, Green Dragon Inn, and 44 hobbit holes! Check out the Weta Workshop special effects studio in Wellington for a look at how the films were made. Throughout the country you can experience a host of filming locales, including sites used for the Gardens of Isengard, Edoras and Fangorn Forest, just to name a few.
No matter when you visit Aotearoa New Zealand, there’s always something new to experience.
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