A Quick Intro to New Zealand

Often referred to as the adventure capital of the world, New Zealand is the birthplace of bungee jumping and has plenty of opportunities to get your heart racing. Hiking, skydiving, caving, skiing, zorbing, skydiving…whatever adventure activity you can think of, New Zealand probably offers it.

With a diverse landscape of rolling hills, forests, mountains, glaciers and fjords, the country boasts some stunning scenery that will take your breath away. It’s no wonder that production staff chose to shoot Lord of the Rings there!

New Zealand is a popular destination for backpackers and gap year travelers, but it also welcomes travelers of all ages and budgets.

With two islands to choose from it can be difficult to choose just one; my recommendation would be to do both! South Island has the most dramatic landscapes and is best for hiking and adventure, while North Island has a warmer climate and is better for beaches and hot springs.

Must-do activities in New Zealand include visiting the Hobbiton movie set in Matamata, tasting wines in Marlborough, spelunking in the Waitomo Caves, taking a boat cruise on Milford Sound, heli-hiking along the icy surface of Franz Josef Glacier and getting in touch with Maori culture in Rotorua.