Auckland
Auckland is the main gateway to New Zealand and its largest city
with its vibrant waterfront life – not for nothing is it called the ‘City
of Sails’ – and its busy Downtown district. Auckland may not be
New Zealand’s capital – that distinction going to Wellington –
but it is the country’s largest city and its major gateway for most
travellers.
Christchurch
Christchurch - The Garden City, a picturesque mix of the old, the quasi-old
and the somewhat new is located on the east coast of the South Island is
full of contrasts. Christchurch is a growing cosmopolitan ambiance that adds
a touch of excitement without overt flashiness.
Dunedin
Distinctly Scottish in feel, with stone buildings and Victorian houses,
this town of 113,000 lies on the southeast coast of South Island. Dunedin
has New Zealand's only castle (Larnach Castle), which overlooks Otago
Harbor.
Queenstown
Queenstown - New Zealand's premier visitor destination, more than just
breathtaking scenery and a diverse range of attractions. Queensland voted
Friendliest Foreign City in a top US Travel Publication in 1996. Queenstown
boasts a range of activities second to none, all within easy reach of the
compact town centre.
Rotorua
Rotorua - one of the most famous destinations in New Zealand, sits on top
of the most active thermal spots in the country and has a long history of
welcoming visitors. From the moment people arrive in Rotorua they know
they're somewhere quite different.
Wellington
(Capital)
Welcome to Wellington - New Zealand's capital city and the country's
leading town , trappings of a thriving metropolis - world-class facilities,
inspired arts and culture, fine dining and a bejewelled harbour. Wellington
also enjoys a well-earned reputation as New Zealand's arts and entertainment
capital, home to the Museum of New Zealand (Te Papa), the New Zealand
Symphony Orchestra and The Royal New Zealand Ballet.
Nelson
Nelson, a pocket paradise nestled in the top northwest corner of the South
Island. The entire area is said to resemble the prow of the waka (canoe) of
Maui, an important figure in Maori mythology, and was known by the Maori as
Te Tau Ihu o Te Waka a Maui (the tip of the nose of the canoe of Maui).
Hamilton
Hamilton, the country's largest inland city with 130.000 inhabitants,
sprawls pleasantly across the Waikato River in the heart of the lush Waikato
plains, among the world's richest farmland. The city grew up as a military
settlement on the banks of the river, once the district's principal means of
access, and a feature of the city today is its restful riverside parks.
Napier
Situated as the capital of the Hawkes Bay region, Napier is renowned for a
beautiful coastline, stately Norfolk pines, a multitude of nearby wineries
and 1930's art deco architecture. In 1931, a two and a half minute
earthquake destroyed the city of Napier which had to be completely rebuilt.
A marvellous collection of buildings in the 1930's Art Deco style sprang up,
which is celebrated with a special Art Deco weekend every February.
