How to spend your New Zealand holiday in the best possible way

New Zealand boasts magical landscapes across its two islands that make up this Rugby-mad nation. Whether it is a peaceful amble or an adventure-soaked escape that you yearn for, the country is well placed to meet and exceed your every expectation. However, careful attention must be drawn to preparation and planning which would largely depend on the weather and one’s preferences. Documented below is how you can go about spending your holiday in this part of the world.

When to go

The period commencing from mid-December to the end of January is the best time to call by here while the months of June, July, September and October offer considerable value. Further, the late spring and early summer months that dominate November to February would complement those who are fascinated by the country’s rugged lands and leisure escapes that can be had. Kayaking, bungy jumping and enjoying a winery tour feature prominently during the aforementioned. Although for fans of snow sports including skiing, the winter months of June, August through to early October must be noted down.

Try out a cultural ensemble

New Zealand is home to an impressive culture and identity whose presence stretches far back to the times of the early settlers. To begin with, a walking tour such as the Auckland City Sights Tour or the Hop On Hop Off Tour that can be experienced when in Wellington are but a few of how you can begin fathoming the breadth and scope of the nation, its people and its values. Following closely on the heels are New Zealand’s museums! These are rare gems worth spending time at. First up is the Auckland Museum which will escort you to one of the country’s premier heritage libraries while educating you on decorative art, leading military and social collections and pre-eminent Maori collections that would coax you into remaining for hours on end here. Dunedin’s Otago Museum and the Canterbury Museum which do not incur entrance fees combine in offering up their own takes on all things ‘New Zealand’ as well.

Explore the natural surroundings

Having completed your tours of the cities, why not move away and into the natural habitats that grace this land? Hikes and treks can be conveniently arranged by the numerous tour companies who will happily assist you in putting together an itinerary that fits in well with your schedule. Overflowing with wetlands, forests, volcanoes, canyons and beaches to name a few, one’s appetite for the natural world will be whetted from beginning to end should you be willing to take on the challenge of moving off the beaten path on the odd occasion. From tramping through lowland forests that will bring you to the gurgling waters of the mighty Whanganui River to learning the minute facets of the Maori and their ways, an escape to Whanganui National Park will be inspiring and entertaining. For the avid kayaker, perhaps, meeting the challenges associated with the Waikato River which is the longest of its kind in New Zealand will spur you to keep journeying on.

Reach dizzying heights

Blessed with a reputation for affording outstanding recreation facilities that will always keep you glued and on your toes, New Zealand is arguably, where adventure happens in every sense of the phrase. Bungy jumping is by far one of the major highlights and an activity that can be had either on the north or south island. The name Queenstown which has etched its presence for being the ‘Adventure Capital in New Zealand’ is where bungy jumping and a host of other action-packed escapes will present themselves. The Kawaru Bridge located near Queenstown is a springboard for Bungy jumpers looking for different adrenaline rush and outings. Skydiving too is a popular pastime that will see you up in the skies at one moment and then have you plummeting down at a rate of knots but under the care of your jumpmaster. One could also try one’s hand at zip-lining over valleys, gorges and past peaks that will make for quite the spectacle and conclusion to your time, here in the ‘land of the long white cloud.’ In terms of accommodation, it is wise to check into modes that will not have you travelling for long periods. One of the major hotel chains here would be Minor Hotels which can be factored into your planning when thinking of accommodation options for your vacation.