Home > Our Publications > New Zealand Outlook > 2001 > May

THERE are few places so naturally blessed as New Zealand.
People travel from the other side of the globe to witness its magnificent scenery, to express a genuine friendliness, to discover the New Zealand way.
There are spectacular mountains, fiords, active volcanoes and even more active glaciers that rest in a surreal coloured landscape of verdant forests, aqua lakes, brown hills and golden beaches.
New Zealand's beauty is complemented by the rich heritage of Maori culture and the residents' passion for the great outdoors.
At the top of the North Island is the Bay of Islands with its beautiful and secluded beaches.
In the Southern Alps, mighty Mount Cook towers over dense wooded foothills, still blue lakes and magnificent glaciers.
In between, there is Rotorua with its geothermal activity, the extraordinary caves of Waitomo and a trio of snowy volcanic peaks in Tongariro National Park.
Further south is Doubtful Sound in Fiordland National Park - vast, remote, untouched and the deepest of all the fiords.
From world-class vineyards, rivers and lakes full of fish, golf courses set amidst spectacular landscapes to clean, elegant cities, New Zealand is the perfect place to unwind at any time of the year.
Once you are in New Zealand, getting about could not be simpler and driving holidays are a pleasure since there is very little traffic outside the main cities.
There is a wide range of hotels or self-catering accommodation throughout the country for you to 'overnight' en route.
You can hire a campervan and have your own home on wheels.
There are plenty of well-equipped camp sites in spectacular locations throughout the country.
A coach tour is a great way to sit back and enjoy the best of New Zealand without worrying about a thing.
Tour operators sort out the transport, hotel arrangements, food and more, leaving you free to enjoy your holiday.
Tour members will travel in a group, so there will be plenty of opportunities to enjoy the company of others and make new friends along the way.
Coaches are designed for maximum comfort, and feature picture windows for panoramic views, and the knowledgeable coach captain will ensure you don't miss any of the sights.