Discovering New Zealand

Feb 2, 2013 17:12 - ivanabutler | 725 views

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New Zealand is known for its diverse landscapes and captivating scenery. The country also offers a variety of activities for visitors to enjoy. Here are a few noteworthy things to experience while visiting New Zealand:

Fishing

New Zealand is known by many as a fisherman’s paradise. Avid fishers often flock to Lake Taupo and the Bay of Plenty to find the perfect catch. Tuna, swordfish and other types of big game fish species often swim in the waters around the Coromandel Peninsula. There are also many shallow rivers throughout the country where fishers can enjoy fly fishing. Some of New Zealand’s prized fish species can easily be located with a fish finder. If you enjoy fishing then New Zealand is the place to be.

Hiking

Trekking across New Zealand’s rugged landscapes is another way to experience the splendor of the country. Visitors can hike through lush forests and across a suspension bridge located in Abel Tasman National Park. A hike to Huka Falls gives explorers the chance to see one of New Zealand’s most spectacular natural sites. Breathtaking images of Lake Benmore and Mount Cook can be seen by hiking along the Benmore Peninsula Track.

Visiting Historical Sites

There are many historical sites of interest located throughout New Zealand. The impressive clock tower at the University of Auckland is reminiscent of many of the old clock towers found in Europe. The iconic ChristChurch Cathedral in the city of Christchurch has managed to survive a series of devastating earthquakes throughout its history. Visitors can also learn more about one of the country’s most celebrated authors by visiting the Katherine Mansfield Birthplace Museum in the capital city of Wellington.

Celebrating at Local Festivals

New Zealand also hosts several festivals throughout the year. Auckland’s Lantern Festival pays tribute to the country’s population of Asian immigrants. The city of Hamilton hosts a Christian music concert series known as the Parachute Music Festival every January. The Allshorts Film Festival, which is traditionally held in October, showcases a variety of short films and music videos. New Zealand’s Polynesian influences are celebrated at the Pasifika Festival held each March at Western Springs Park in Auckland.

Relaxing at the Beach

Many gorgeous beaches can be found along New Zealand’s coasts. Beachgoers often dig personal spas in the sand to soak in the warm waters found at Hot Water Beach. Piha Beach is a popular surfing destination for avid surfers. The coastal area along Auckland’s Mission Bay features a variety of cafes, pubs and ice cream shops. Magnificent sand dunes and crystal clear seawater can be seen at Ninety Mile Beach. Luscious black sands coat the beautiful beach at Karekare.

Shopping

In addition to all of the amazing sights and fun activities, New Zealand is also a great place to enjoy shopping. Sylvia Park is a modern retail space in Auckland featuring numerous clothing and specialty stores. Also located in Auckland is the multilevel Westfield WestCity shopping complex. The Base, which is the country’s largest shopping centre, features many different types of shops and eateries and is located in the city of Hamilton.

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