Reasons to Visit New Zealand and What You Should Know
New Zealand, also known as Aotearoa, is a beautiful island nation with friendly people, rich culture, and breathtaking landscapes. It offers plenty of reasons to visit, especially during the winter months in the southern hemisphere. While the northern hemisphere experiences winter, New Zealand enjoys summer, bringing long sunny days perfect for exploring the country’s impressive scenery.
One major advantage of visiting New Zealand is that English is widely spoken, making it easy to navigate and enjoy the experiences you seek. As a popular tourist destination, the country is well-equipped to welcome visitors from around the world and is known for its safety.
In fact, New Zealand is ranked as the fourth safest country in the world, only behind Ireland, Denmark, and Iceland. It’s considered a Level 1 destination on the US Department of State’s Travel Advisory System, the safest level possible. This makes it an ideal destination for solo travelers and digital nomads seeking a safe and vibrant experience.
The North Island
Auckland, the capital city, serves as the main point of entry for most visitors. Located in the northwest of the North Island, Auckland boasts a charming harbor, excellent seafood restaurants, and recreational activities like sailing and kayaking. Additionally, the Sky Tower offers a stunning view from its 1,000-foot tall viewing deck.
Heading southeast from Auckland, Rotorua is a well-known town famous for its geothermal hot springs and pools. Further east, Hawke’s Bay is home to Napier, an art deco town with a fascinating ambiance and plenty of luxury dining options. On the southern edge of the North Island lies Wellington, a leafy and hilly town renowned for its art scene, museums, and craft beer breweries.
The South Island
The South Island of New Zealand captures the essence of natural beauty with its ten national parks. Abel Tasman, situated on the coast, is a favorite destination for secluded beaches, kayaking, swimming, and hiking. Marlborough, in the north, is renowned for its wine-growing regions.
Two of the most remarkable national parks are Aoraki and Fjordland. Aoraki is the Alpine region, showcasing the country’s largest mountain, Mount Cook, and a dark sky reserve for unparalleled stargazing experiences. Fjordland, on the other hand, is a majestic wilderness area with deep fjords covered by lush green forests. Doubtful Sound and Milford Sound are two of the most famous fjords.
If you crave nightlife, Wanaka and Queenstown, mountain towns on the South Island, offer a vibrant atmosphere and plenty of places to party. It’s an excellent way to immerse yourself in the local culture and have a great time.
What You Should Know Before Visiting
When visiting New Zealand, it’s essential to know some practical information. The local currency is the New Zealand Dollar, with an exchange rate of around NZ $10 to USD $6. While English is widely spoken, learning a few Maori phrases such as ‘kia ora’ (hello) and ‘tena koe’ (thank you) can enhance your interaction with the locals.
Driving in New Zealand is on the left side, and renting a car is a convenient way to travel as the roads are well-maintained and have minimal traffic. Whether you’re exploring the cities, enjoying nature, or indulging in the vibrant nightlife, New Zealand offers a unique and unforgettable experience.
Source: This Amazing Destination Is One Of The World’s Safest Countries To Visit This Winter
