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Natural New Zealand

In New Zealand it is a relatively simple and speedy exercise to remove yourself from the hustle of city life to the tranquillity of the mountains, bush or seaside. Take Auckland, for example, where dense forest, rugged and remote coastline and stunning sandy beaches all lie within an hour's drive from downtown. And from Christchurch, the South Island's gateway city, it is only a hour's drive to spectacular mountain scenery, glacier fed rivers and sub tropical rainforest.

With this ease of access to the great outdoors, you are able to experience the very best of New Zealand's natural splendour even on the most fleeting of visits. Of course if your stay is longer, you can experience the real depth of New Zealand's unique flora and fauna and take away a lasting impression of its natural beauty.

For visitors unfamiliar with the specific characteristics of the New Zealand outdoors the best way to safely experience the 'back country' as it is known, is on a guided walk or tour. Guided walks and tours have numerous other advantages over 'freedom walking', including not having to make your own food and accommodation arrangements. As a visitor to this country, you may wish to combine such a walk with other activities such as kayaking, horse riding, 4WD tours, flightseeing etc. and many operators provide such options. Some however, cater strictly for the eco-tourism purist.

Following is a regional breakdown (from South to North) of some of New Zealand's natural holiday opportunities.