New Zealand

Aotearoa, more commonly known as New Zealand, offers some of the world's most beautiful landscapes. This is a country of just 5 million residents with such wide appeal that the country receives around 2 million visitors per year. It's a natural adventure playground that also offers world class food & wine and a rich cultural history.

A country of two main islands, the north island offers great insight into NZ history. At the Bay of Islands in the far north, visit Russell, the country's first seaport and first European settlement. From here you can go sailing around beautiful islands and also visit nearby Waitangi where the treaty between the British settlers and the Māori people was signed.

Rotorua is the central point to New Zealand's geothermal activity and also offers some of the best opportunities to learn about Maori culture. Here, you can experience a traditional welcome ceremony, enjoy a traditional Hāngī and witness the Haka.

Head to the South Island by ferry or light aircraft and explore the magical Marlborough Sounds. Across to Abel Tasman National Park, enjoy kayaking at one of the world's most beautiful coastal parks. Marlborough is of course famed for its wine, in particular Sauvignon Blanc.

Just south of here, in Kaikoura, you can see a wide range of sea life from Albatross to Sperm Whales to pods of hundreds of Dusky Dolphins.

From Mt Cook to Lake Wanaka and on to the adrenaline centre Queenstown, this central belt of the South Island is a dream to drive through. Over on the West Coast, Milford Sound shows a glimpse of southern hemisphere wilderness, whilst Fox and Franz Joseph offer the chance to walk on a glacier.

Be sure to immerse yourself in the local culture, discovering the lesser-known regions and embracing the country's natural wonders and warm hospitality for an unforgettable holiday.