Destination Inspiriation...New Zealand

New Zealand

Heaven on Earth is often how New Zealand is described , and I couldn't agree more! From snow-capped mountains to deep, crystal clear lagoons, plunging cave networks to raging rapids, the islands are a playground for thrill-seekers. Opt for the North Island with stunning coastlines and landscapes, or perhaps the South Island dominated by majestic mountains and still clear, lakes.

Nature vs. nurture

There are few places on Earth where the raw energy and raw beauty of our planet is so apparent – mud pools bubble like hot chocolate, vast forests span the horizon, ancient kauri trees just keep on growing, and the sparkling Fox and Franz Josef glaciers feel like a world away from the subtropical off-shore islands and golden sands of Ninety Mile Beach. However, cosmopolitan cities are scattered throughout both the North and South Island. The bustle and buzz of Auckland and Wellington in the North Island are quietly echoed in fascinating Christchurch, Queenstown and Dunedin in the South Island.

North Island

Active volcanoes, stunning scenery and fascinating history top the list when visiting New Zealand’s North Island. Journey through landscapes boasting magnificent beaches, sprawling farmlands and geothermal wonders. See first-hand the strong influences of Mãori culture across this spectacular land. New Zealand’s North Island presents a sparkling array of must-see sights: from the bustling city of Auckland to the Pacific Coast Highway taking in Coromandel Peninsula, Bay of Plenty and Hawke’s Bay. The Thermal Explorer route
from Hawke’s Bay across the Volcanic Plateau; the bubbling geysers of Rotorua; to the extraordinary Hobbiton Movie Set Tour in Hamilton… the options are endless.

South Island

New Zealand’s South Island hosts some of the most beautiful natural landscapes you’ll ever witness. From wildlife to wineries, from glacial valleys to starry skies, take in all of the dramatic scenery. Towering alps meet peaceful sounds and rugged coastlines merge with sweeping plains. The island is also home to the most down-to-earth locals you’ll ever meet. The Marlborough region is one of New Zealand’s largest wine-growing regions and boasts the majestic Marlborough Sounds; the West Coast is known for its backdrop of mountain peaks, Fox and Franz Josef glaciers; and stunning Queenstown offers everything from skiing and snowboarding, to jet boating, bungy jumping and whitewater rafting.

Keeping New Zealand connected

Renowned for its uniquely Kiwi service and innovative on board product, the award-winning Air New Zealand is a better way to fly. An extensive Pacific Rim network and strong relationships with alliance partners across key international markets offers customers a seamless way to travel across the globe. Air New Zealand’s driving purpose is all about people with a philosophy to enrich their country by connecting New Zealanders to each other and New Zealand to the world. Anyone that flies with Air New Zealand can trust their renowned Kiwi service culture with a guiding principle that strives to be the airline of choice when travelling to New Zealand.

My top tip

If you have the time, I highly recommend making a stop to break up the journey. It doesn't cost you anymore than the hotel to stop and explore a new country for a couple of days. I suggest Hong Kong on the way to New Zealand (they even have a Disney park!) and Singapore on the way back. This also helps with the jet lag, as you acclimatise as you travel. Night flights are also a brilliant idea if you are travelling with children - wear them out them let them crash out on the journey, ready to start a new day as you arrive at your destination.