Facts About New Zealand

New Zealand is situated in the southwest Pacific Ocean - its nearest neighbour being Australia, which lies to the west. Contrary to popular belief, there is no bridge linking the two countries and no plans exist to build one any time soon!

New Zealand consists of two main islands, cunningly named the North Island and the South Island in order to make navigation easier for the tourist.

If you plan to travel between the North and South Islands in your motorhome you will need to book a Cook Strait ferry crossing.

Likewise, some motorhome companies are better (or worse) to travel with. Those who know best, are those who have already 'been there and done that' - clck here to read the motorhomes reviews and see what they say.

North Island

It's New Zealand's amazing geographical diversity that for most makes it such a fascinating destination and truly an outdoor enthusiast's nirvana. North Island visitors can experience beautiful beaches, lakes, native bushlands, spectacular rivers, mountains, hot springs and boiling mud pools.

South Island

The scenic beauty of the South Island is simply jaw-dropping making it one of the world's most stunning regions. Its most striking feature, the Southern Alps, is a chain of rugged mountain peaks, a magnet for skiers, snowboarders and mountaineers from all over the globe. Pristine fiords, glaciers, turquoise blue lakes and the picturesque coastal plains of Canterbury and Southland can all be found in the South Island. Be sure to bring plenty of film for your camera!

New Zealand Heritage

New Zealand is also known as Aotearoa, the name given to it by the indigenous Maori who settled the islands around the year 850 AD. Translated, Aotearoa means "the land of the long white cloud". The Maori possess a rich heritage unique to New Zealand, one they are happy to share with the tourist through cultural events showcasing dance, music and traditional hangi (earth oven) feasts. Don't be surprised if you are greeted with a Hongi - the traditional pressing of noses. And if you are privileged to be invited onto a Marae (meeting area) you will experience hospitality unlike any you have known.

The Maori language is an official language of New Zealand and many towns, rivers, lakes and mountains are indeed named in Maori. Don't be discouraged! Once you come to terms with it, pronunciation is easy - Paraparaumu will become as simple to say as Picton.

For further information on New Zealand, visit www.newzealand.com