New Zealand was first discovered around a thousand years ago by the Maori who migrated to the islands from their ancestral Polynesian homeland of Hawaiki. The last major land mass on earth to be discovered by the Europeans, this remarkable set of islands, defined by the tectonic activity which shapes the landscape, was only discovered by Dutch Explorer Abel Tasmin in 1642. It wasn’t until the nineteen hundreds that there was more extensive European migration.

This beautiful destination with spectacular landscapes, lush forests, amazing wildlife and a pleasant climate has only recently seen a real interest from tourism, fuelled initially by word of mouth and more recently by Peter Jackson’s dramatisation of J. R. R. Tolkien’s classic, The Lord of the Rings.

More often found on the route of the various World Cruises sailing the Pacific Ocean from the United States to Australia, New Zealand is now being targeted on a greater scale by a host of cruise lines who have realised there is huge demand for this remarkable country. Although ports of call such as Auckland and Christchurch, and regions such as Milford Sound, are regularly featured, New Zealand deserves far more time and dedication than the majority of itineraries allow. There is excellent scope for 3-4 night pre- and post-cruise stays, easily enjoyed from Auckland and Christchurch, the main embarkation and disembarkation points, which will enable greater exploration of this deceptively large region. With the new wave of super lodges and standards of cuisine which are gaining international recognition, a pre- or post-cruise tour and stay in New Zealand will be in the comfort you can expect aboard even the most luxurious of cruise ships.

The North Island

Rotorua

South of Auckland and heartland of New Zealand’s Maori culture, Rotorua is surrounded by steaming lakes, bubbling hot pools and bursting geysers. Approximately 6 hours by leisurely private car transfer or a short plane journey, Rotorua is host to some of the world’s most incredible earth forces and is a unique showcase of both tectonic activity and Maori history and ceremony, which are such a fundamental part of the New Zealand landscape, physically and culturally.

A stay at Treetops Lodge, nestled in magnificent natural surroundings, is the perfect base to explore such delights as the Maori Arts and Crafts Institute, Hell’s Gate (Tikitere) Thermal Reserve and Spa, Rainbow Springs Nature Park, Polynesian Spa – Thermal Pools and Beauty Retreat and a scenic helicopter flight over Mt Tarawera and White Island. As one of the few places on earth that you can get this close to phenomena such as thermal spas, boiling mud pools and geysers, a trip to Rotarua is quite simply unique.

We recommend driving to and flying back from the destination, this way you will get to see the landscape from both the ground and the air, making for a richer experience.

Bay of Islands

North of Auckland, New Zealand’s Bay of Islands – 144 islands in the clear waters of the glistening Pacific Ocean – are a huge, but refreshing departure from what you would expect to encounter from a destination famed for its rugged landscapes. This collection of islands showcases endless marine wildlife and natural beauty with the local townships steeped in colonial history.

After a scenic four hour drive north from Auckland a three night stay is plenty of time to explore. Kauri Cliffs, one of New Zealand’s top super lodges is located in a magnificent setting with panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and Cavalli Islands and is the perfect place from which to do this. Kauri Cliffs combines a wonderful ambiance and sophistication with relaxed elegance and impeccable facilities throughout both its public areas and exclusive guest accommodation.

The guest cottages are superbly appointed in a sophisticated yet understated style with individual fire places, comfortable sitting areas, large ensuite bathrooms, all set in peaceful bush surroundings offering privacy each with its own private porch. It also has its own golf course which is ranked in the world’s top 100.

Activities here are firmly focused on the great outdoors, so you can choose from nature bush walks, horse riding, kayaking, swimming with dolphins, scuba diving or snorkelling. The Bay of Islands also has an intriguing place in the colonial history of New Zealand being home to Kemp Mission House (one of New Zealand’s oldest buildings – 1822) and the Stone Store at Kerikeri and the Waitangi Treaty House where the Treaty of Waitangi was signed in 1840 between the New Zealand Maori and the British Crown.

The South Island

Queenstown

Known as the ‘Adventure Capital of the World’, Queenstown is set on the shores of Lake Wakatipu, amidst the towering peaks of the Southern Alps. The scenery provides a perfect backdrop for endless activities and an idyllic haven in which to relax. It is a truly beautiful place, whether you participate in the huge number of outdoor pursuits available or opt for a more sedate break, it is worth spending some time here for the scenery alone.

The town itself is a good jumping off point for a visit to the historic and picturesque Gold Mining settlement of Arrowtown. Also within striking distance of Queentown are several of the leading boutique wineries and vineyards for which Central Otago is renowned – Amisfield, Chard Farm, Peregrine Wines, Lake Hayes and Gibbston Vineyards – all of which are top New World producers. For those who wish to further explore the awe-inspiring scenery a day excursion to Milford Sound or the lesser visited Doubtful Sound, located in the unique Fiordland National Park are quite simply a must-do and for the literature and film enthusiasts alike visits to the sites and surreal landscapes where the ‘Lord of the Rings’ was filmed will combine memories of those multiple Oscar winning films with some truly remarkable spectacles.

Other options

Other regions definitely worth considering are (on the North Island) The Bay of Plenty and Hawke Bay which offer picturesque scenery and fantastic wineries or Lake Taupo for some of the country’s finest untouched, uncrowded and unique landscapes. Or on the South Island discover the Marlborough and Mount Cook Regions for food and wine and iconic wild landscapes respectively.

HOW TO GET THERE
Flying to New Zealand is a truly long haul so one option is to look at the various ways of breaking the journey and traveling by ship. Likewise if going by air a break is recommended – you can take the westerly route via Los Angeles (maybe stop off in Papeete as you cross the Pacific), or the easterly route breaking your journey somewhere in the Far East – a round the world fare is a good option. For direct flights British Airways and Air New Zealand are the key carriers. Business class flights are strongly recommended.

WHEN TO GO
New Zealand is firmly in the Southern Hemisphere, of course, so our summer is their winter. The north of New Zealand is subtropical and the south temperate. The warmest months are December, January and February, and the coldest June, July and August.

WHAT TO WEAR
Dress is informal and relaxed on most occasions. Smart casual clothes are acceptable at most restaurants and night-spots. Men are generally not expected to wear suits and ties, except in a few of the top formal bars and restaurants in major cities.
In summer a jacket and sweater should be included in your luggage should the weather turn cooler or you visit higher altitudes. You can expect some rain, so also include a light rainproof jacket or coat. If visiting between May and September, pack warm winter garments and layer your clothing.

DOCUMENTATION
You must be in possession of a full passport but for British travelers, no visa is required