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New Zealand is said to be the Adventure Capital of the world. Right from scuba diving to skiing and bungee jumping, a variety of adventure sports thrive here. The maritime climate, with a more dry and hot Northern Island and a relatively cooler Southern Island, offers the tourist a whole range of holiday destinations to choose from. The diverse climate has shaped the terrain such that, rugged mountains, rushing rivers, deep gorges and thick forests and the inhabited cities are all within reach of each other. English being the official language, rest assured - there would be no communication problems.

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Let’s have a look at the Top 15 places to visit, while you are in the land of the Maori.

 

• Abel Tasman National Park

The Abel Tasman national park, in the Southern Island boasts of golden beaches and offers a great walk on its coastal track. Other activities offered are Water Taxi’s and Sea Kayaking

 

• Fiordland National Park

Located in the Southern Island, it is New Zealand’s largest National Park. The park covers a varied geographic terrain from deep gorges, forests, mountains and waterfalls making it ideal for hiking.

 

• Milford Sound.

This is a world heritage area at the heart of the Fiordland National Park. The still waters of this fiord reflect the majestic cliffs, and the waterfalls rushing down the rock faces.

 

• Lake Taupo.

Lake Taupo is the largest fresh water lake in this region. Located in a volcanic region, its surroundings are home to volcanos and hot springs. The Maori rock carvings at Mine Bay are worth a visit. The Waikato River Valley in the vicinity is one of the best places for Bungee jumping.

 

• Poor Knights Marine Reserve.

New Zealand’s rich marine life could be explored by scuba diving at the Poor Knights reserve where the underwater currents and natural landscape sustain a wide variety of marine creatures.

 

• Great Barrier Island

Varied landscape with quiet beaches and high mountains, the island is home to a variety of flora and fauna.

 

• Stewart Island

Also known as Raikura, Stewart Island is known to be a hiker’s paradise. Most of the island lies within the Raikura National Park. It is an excellent site for birdwatchers with five penguin species being found on the island.

 

• Mount Ruapehu

A volcanic peak covered with snow, Ruapehu is a skiiers delight. There are 2 other smaller volcanic peaks alongside Ruapehu, Mount Ngauruhoe and Mount Tongariro. These peaks are located in the Tongariro World Heritage National Park.

 

• Kaikoura

A coastal village, close to the towns of Christchurch/ Canterbury, Kaikoura offers a scenic view of the mountains and the coastline. It is an excellent site for watching sea mammals including whales.

 

• Mountain Cook.

It is New Zealand’s highest peak; Home to majestic glaciers and calm lakes. Moutaineering, hiking, skiing and glacier walks are some of the activities available in this area.

 

• Omarama

Omarama is a small township close to Christchurch/ Canterbury. It is well known for alpine gliding.

 

• Hawke’s Bay Wine Country

Hawke’s Bay is one of New Zealand’s grape growing regions and the wineries are situated within reach from the nearest town or city. Guided tours to the wineries are available and the visitors are introduced to wine tasting sessions.

 

• Queenstown

Queenstown is the adventure hotspot of New Zealand where the relaxation of city life and thrill of adventure can both be experienced at the same place.

 

• Waitomo Glowworm Caves

Beautiful caves with water dripping down the age-old stalactites and stalagmites, lit by the light of glowworms, it is a sight to behold.

 

• Taranaki’s Surf Highway

Mount Taranaki and the Tasman Sea provide the visitor an opportunity to take in the beauty of the snow-clad peaks and that of the surf breaks within minutes drive from each other.

 

Be it the casual traveler looking for some relaxation or the enthusiast seeking the thrill of adventure, the scenic beauty of New Zealand is bound to make the trip enjoyable.

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