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New Zealand comprises 2 main islands known as the the North and South islands and numerous smaller islands. Located 1500km south east of Australia between the south Pacific ocean and the Tasman sea it has a mild temperate oceanic climate with average summer temperatures ranging between 25c in the North to 20C in the South.

The South island is the most mountainous with the southern Alps stretching down the length of its centre. While The North island is less mountainous it is highly volcanic especially near its centre around Lake Taupo where a large volcanic plateau has formed. Here you will see see Geysers spouting water and steam high into the the air and feel the heat of the ground beneath your feet. See steam rising from the ground through vents and bubbling mud pools. The northern end of the North island is pastural with rolling green hills and valleys where you will see sheep grazing and find stretches of long sandy beaches along the western shores. In the southeast corner of the North island you will find the country's capital and commercial centre Wellington which is also a centre for the arts, culture, cafes and nightclubs. Its picturesque natural harbour is also the destination for many cruise ships visiting after sailing through the Marlborough sounds. A regular ferry services runs from Wellington to Picton on the South island - a truly spectacular journey which is often chaperoned by a shoal of dolphins before reaching the breathtaking scenery of the Marlborough sounds, an area of sea flooded valleys where steep wooded islands dotted with small bays and the occasional house rise from crystal clear waters.

Travelling down the eastern coast of the North island from Picton you come to Kiakoura, famous for its whale watching excursions. The next stop would have been the beautiful city of Christchurch with its extensive parklands centred around the river Avon, but, following the 2010/2011 earthquakes, travel to the city is not advised although Canterbury and surrounding areas are functioning normally. Not to be missed is the popular resort town of Queenstown on the shores of Lake Wakatipu which in winter is a popular ski centre and in summer supports a multitude of sporting activities including jet boating, whitewater rafting and fishing. From Queenstown you can travel through the Alps to the spectacular fjord of Milford sound or head north to view the magnificent Fox Glacier.

There are two major international airports servicing the North Island at Aukland and Wellington while the airport at Christchurch which remains open, services the South island.

As far as accommodation goes, great hospitality tends to be the theme in New Zealand. Accommodation is often quite rustic in keeping with New Zealand's outdoor style, but it is usually well-furnished and maintained. Chalets and cabins are often described as cottages and are as likely to be on the coast as inland. Comfortable bed and breakfasts are common, but there are also luxury retreats and spas available. Owing to the rugged terrain and miles of coastline, properties with great views of the sea and / or the mountains can often be found.