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Major New Zealand Attractions
Tourism is one of New Zealand's largest economies, and they know how to do it right. You can find any level of accommodation to meet your travel needs. Package deals of all sorts are available with a bit of keen research or a call to your local travel agency.
New Zealand Geography
This gorgeous country's landmass is divided into two major islands, which are called the North Island and the South Island, respectively. On the North Island, you can find Auckland, the "City of Sails", a bustling multicultural metropolis dotted with volcanic hills and surrounded by beautiful bays. In fact, the city has more boats per capita than any other on earth!
With possibilities for swimming at gorgeous Piha beach, ferry trips to hike volcanic Rangitoto Island, sailing and windsurfing on Waitemata and Manukau harbors, and fantastic shopping and dining, Auckland is a can't-miss for your honeymoon adventure. Additionally, the North Island boasts extensive wine country and numerous natural wonders, including Karangahake Gorge, a hiking and canoeing paradise, and is also home to Wellington, the nation's capital city.
The South Island is generally more picturesque than the North. It is the site of the Southern Alps, along with their highest snow-capped peak, Mt. Cook, which towers some 12,000 feet above sea level. Timaru, "a city of roses," can also be found on the southern isle. With its extensive botanical gardens, hiking opportunities, and an annual rose festival at the end of November, this town can be a beautifully romantic stop on your journey through this lovely country.
Are you and your loved one interested in wine? The southern island boasts one of the world's fastest-growing wine countries, with emphasis on delicate pinot noirs and other cool-climate grapes. Imagine sitting on a sunlit veranda, the long, green lines of the vineyard stretching away from you to the foot of the blue mountains, sipping a luscious glass of red.
What about some more adventurous activities? The Southern Island is considered to be one of the best spots in the world for extreme sports like sky-diving, mountaineering, white water rafting, balloon safaris, heli-skiing, bungee jumping, and something called "zorbing," where people are placed in large plastic spheres and rolled for miles downhill! Also, be sure to check out the cities of Dunedin, with its Cadbury chocolate factory, and Queenstown, with the picturesque Milford Sound nearby.
Getting Around New Zealand
Transportation in New Zealand is generally quite easy to come by. For starters, Auckland and Wellington on the North Island and Christchurch on the South Island are all homes to international airports. Some domestic flights are available, but the major form of transportation between cities is a "transrail" system that's quick and quite reliable.
For moving between the two major islands, you can either catch a flight between two of the major cities, or take the Interisland ferry, which runs regularly on a daily basis. Car rentals are available for those with international licenses, and cab and bus services are possibilities in cities.
Visas and Travel Advisories
Those traveling for tourist purposes in New Zealand do not need to secure a visa, unless their intended stay is for more than three months. All that will be required of you is a passport! Be sure that you carry a photocopy of your picture page with you, in an area separate from your passport. In case of loss or theft, this will greatly speed along the process of obtaining new documentation.
New Zealand is generally a safe country, with a low incidence of violent crime and theft. Petty crime does sometimes occur, and so you should take reasonable precautions when you travel to the country - don't where flashy jewelry, for example, and use traveler's checks and credit cards instead of cash. When you can, keep your valuables close to your body. A travel wallet worn around your waist or neck may lend you security and piece of mind.
From the North Island to the South Island, Auckland to Milford Sound, its amazing wine lands to mountain climbing, beautiful beaches and breathtaking vistas, New Zealand is a gorgeous place to spend your first few weeks of married life. With all this island nation has to offer, it truly is one of the world's foremost honeymooning destinations.