The Ultimate Guide to New Zealand
The Ultimate Guide to New Zealand
If you’ve chosen New Zealand as your next destination, you’ve got a great taste, but if you haven’t decided yet, NZ should be on your bucket list. New Zealand is famous for its inexplicable beauty, so instead of describing the landscapes, you’ll have to go and see the country yourself.
As it has many beautiful beaches, snowy mountain peaks and extraordinary landscapes, New Zealand is a popular tourist’s destination. Sadly, you most likely won’t be able to see the whole country. So, here’s the ultimate guide to New Zealand and what you mustn’t miss while you’re there.
1. Transportation
Even though the fastest way to get around the country is to drive, it’s not the best option if you want to see its hidden beauty. However, roads are amazing and most likely empty, there are a lot of view stops and nature is astonishing. Who would miss a chance to drive through the valley, with the big, snowy mountains right above your head? It’s a true campervan paradise.
Photo by Cassie Matias on Unsplash
However, not everyone has a campervan. Some just want to experience New Zealand on two wheels. If that’s the case, you’re lucky because New Zealand is one of the best countries for cycling. The government invested in a national cycle circuit that links 19 major and many smaller biking trails around the country. You can stay fit and see some of the South Island’s jaw-dropping sceneries.
2. Whale watching
While you’re on the trail on South Island, don’t forget to visit Kaikoura. It’s a city better known as whale watching capital of New Zealand. It’s located on the South Island between Picton and Christchurch. Even if you’re not a fan of marine wildlife, this experience may change your point of view.
Kaikoura is one of the rare places in the world where different kinds of whales can be seen all year round. If you’re visiting during winter, you’ll be able to see humpback whales, while orcas are passing by in the summer. Besides whales, there’s a wide variety of other sea animals. For example, seals and dolphins are common visitors.
3. Wander around
You know what they say, not all who wander are lost. Every true New Zealander knows this. That’s why they don’t go trekking in nature, they go wandering and tramping. If you’re not a fan of driving, nor you like cycling, hiking is an ideal option for you. The truth is, there is no better rest for the mind than to walk in nature. Simply “turn off” your brain and soak up the beautiful views and landscapes.
It doesn’t matter if you’re young or old, physically active or not, everyone can find a route to enjoy. If you’re looking for an amazing day trip, opt for the “Tongariro Crossing” often described as the NZ greatest walk. It’s a trek across the volcanic alpine landscape where you can see many amazing springs and lakes along the way. Don’t forget to bring hiking essentials such as water and food, and remember to pick up your trash and leave the trail clean.
4. Relax at the beach
Not everyone enjoys an active vacation. It’s totally fine to just go to the beach and relax. Even though New Zealand has a lot of beaches to offer, one of the most popular beaches is Mt Maunganui beach. Imagine this: you’re lying on a sandy beach, while the wind is playing with your hair and the smell of the ocean is tickling your nose trills. It’s a great opportunity to relax for a while, maybe even light a cigarette. But, filling out the air with the smell of the cigarette is unpleasant and, at some places, even illegal. So, you should consider vaping instead.
Photo by Delphine Ducaruge on Unsplash
Did you know that vaping is illegal in some countries? Luckily, New Zealand is not one of them. While you’re at the beach, you could try vaping as a pastime activity. There’s a wide range of flavours and the best part of it all is that vaping is healthier and tastier than smoking regular cigarettes. If you want to vape in NZ, consider getting fruit flavoured e-liquid so you can fully enjoy the tropical weather with an amazing taste of e-cigarettes. The good thing is you’re not only limited to one flavour. Get more than one flavour and play a guessing game with your friends at the beach.
5. Explore the culture
When visiting a new country, it’s natural to be interested in its culture and history. Many people choose to visit cities and museums rather than spending a day in nature. So, that is a great opportunity to learn something new about locals and their life.
New Zealand’s renowned tribe Maori has left quite a big mark on the culture and today’s lives of many people. So, if you want to get to know the culture and traditions, there is no better way to do so than the first-hand experience. You don’t have to wander far if you want to have an authentic Maori experience. You can find it in Auckland where local Maori guides talk about the connection between New Zealand landscape and Maori culture. They also explain how culture subsists in modern times. If you want to impress locals and Maori, learn some Maori words and you’ll be the star of the tour.
Conclusion
As you can see, New Zealand has to offer many different activities and places according to everyone’s preferences. One visit simply isn’t enough to get to know the country’s spirit. Once you leave, you’ll want to come back for more. So, don’t be afraid to explore nature and enjoy the view while it lasts.
