New Zealand - The Green Adventure Playground
Although tiny and isolated, this country, made up of two main islands and many other smaller ones, is one of the worlds greatest destinations, and not just because The Lord of the Rings was filmed there. New Zealanders, or ‘kiwi’s’ as they are known, are some of the warmest, friendliest people on the planet, however only 5% of the population is human, the rest animals. Leave some time to explore the ‘out of the way’ places, because it is here you will feel it’s soul. The scenery is like nothing you’ve seen before, with volcanoes, beaches, glaciers, mountains and rainforests. It is seasonal, with mild summers and great snow based activities during winter. It’s the extreme adventure capital of the world, with everything from bungee jumping to white water rafting and canyon jumping. Leave some time to explore the ‘out of the way’ places, because it is here you will feel it’s soul. Crime is low and there are no snakes or spiders that will kill you…just make sure to leave some time to explore the ‘out of the way’ places, because it is here you will feel it’s soul.
Auckland – Vast farmlands, sprawling beaches and active volcanoes are just a few of the things to go on your list when on New Zealand’s smaller North Island. Auckland being the largest city is a hub of shopping and dinning and transport links. Visit the tallest building in the Southern Hemisphere, ride rollercoasters, take a dip in the thermal hot pools, or just enjoy the scenery.
Wellington – the capital, is home to New Zealand’s Parliament and Government Ministries and Departments. Nestled between the harbour and rugged hills, explore it on foot or ride the cable car up the Botanic Gardens atop Victoria Mountain. Visit the Te Papa Tongarewa Museum for a taste of authentic New Zealand and its people.
Rotorua – do not bypass this city. Built around geothermal activity, don’t be startled when you see steam escaping from cracks in the road. A highly popular tourist destination, visit it’s 17 lakes, Buried Village, Wildlife Park and thermal spa. Voted on many occasions as New Zealand’s most beautiful City and the heartland of Maori culture, go here for landscapes which no adjective can rightly do justice and to get a cultural and spiritual experience you will never forget.
The South Island is a vision of unadulterated landscapes, with wineries, frozen valleys, ski fields and hiking trails.
Christchurch & Canterbury – utterly devastated by large earthquakes in 2010 & 2011, this city is still rebuilding after the heartache. Small pockets of green have popped up amongst historic ruins and shiny new buildings. Go to swim with dolphins, try white-water rafting, bungee jump, sky dive or hot air ballooning.
Queenstown – be utterly captivated by the beauty of this cosmopolitan town which sits on the shimmering waters of Lake Wakatipu. Here, as with most of New Zealand, you can choose from a tempting buffet of outdoor adventure activities, as it is home of the ultimate adventure bucket list. If you want something a little more tame – just a little – do a cycling trail.
To begin your adventure – you will need a visa for your Working.Holiday. Either do it yourself or get one of our expert partners to help you through the process.
To help fund your adventure – GET A JOB. Our extensive Backpacker job board has the latest vacancies from all over the world. Submit your resume and apply before you go.
