Home > Our Publications > Travel New Zealand > January 2007

By Shirley Gilbertson
UK Manager, Travel New Zealand

WELCOME to Travel New Zealand. The only newspaper produced totally for New Zealand travel.
In size New Zealand is about the same size as the United Kingdom. It is made up of three main islands, North Island, South Island and Stewart Island. With several off shore groups of islands the biggest of which are the Chatham Islands.
With mountains running down the middle of both North and South Islands the diversity of holiday destinations is vast.
New Zealand's climate ranges from sub-tropical in the north to temperate in the south. But there is a much greater contrast between climates in the east and west of the country, as the main mountain ranges are a major barrier to the prevailing westerly winds.
This gives a much higher rainfall in the west and is most pronounced in the South Island. Fiordland can receive over six meters of rain in a year.
However New Zealand averages about 2000 hours of sunshine each year.
New Zealand offers a vast range of activities to provide relaxation, adventure and challenge.
Distances between areas are usually quite short. So whether you want to try white-water rafting, swimming, golf or tennis, you usually won't have to go far.
For instance, spring time central North Island could see you skiing in Mt Ruapehu, fishing for trout in the Tongariro River, swimming in Lake Taupo and tramping in the native bush, all within a couple of days. Probably best to take a couple of weeks. Unless you are going to take a holiday to get over the great time you are going to have in New Zealand.
From jet boating to Kayaking from Fishing to Flightseeing. (yes, sight seeing by air) from diving to mountain climbing. From tennis to trekking. There is something for everyone in New Zealand.