New Zealand’s awesome landscapes, lush forests, amazing wildlife and pleasant climate make it a haven for many outdoor activities, and a great place to unwind.

Comparable in size and/or shape to Great Britain or Japan, New Zealand only has a population of around 4.1 million – making it one of the world’s least crowded countries.

With such diverse landscapes so close to each other; you can experience everything from snow-capped mountains, in season, to seaside towns and beaches in the same day.  Getting around is easy from public transport of buses, trains, and taxi services you can easily enjoy a day out sightseeing or shopping wherever you may be.

New Zealand’s unit of currency is the New Zealand Dollar (NZ$).   Foreign currency can easily be changed at banks, and all major credit cards can be used in .  Traveller’s cheques are accepted in a variety of locations.  Here is a guide for some common items you may need to purchase:

 

Dinner (excluding beverages)	NZ$20-$50
Café Lunch	NZ$10-$15
Postcard stamp to anywhere	NZ$1.50
Cappuccino	NZ$2.50-$3
Digital photo developing	NZ$0.50-$1(Per image)

Located down-under seasons are opposite to those of the Northern Hemisphere with our coolest month being July to our warmest in January.  For those of you who are planning a trip, naturally you would need to know what to bring to wear.  Here is a small outline of the climate around Christchurch to help with your planning: 
 

Summer (Dec – Feb)	sunscreen, light clothes
Autumn (Mar – May)	warm sweaters, heavy jacket
Winter (Jun – Aug)	lots of warm sweaters, thick coat, hat and gloves
Spring (Sept – Nov)	light jacket, rainwear

 

New Zealand has a very unique dynamic culture.  The cultures of is indigenous Maori people affect the language, the arts, and even the accents of all New Zealanders.  Their place in the South Pacific and their love of the outdoors, sports, and the arts make New Zealanders and their culture unique to the world.

New Zealand is a haven for those seeking peace, rejuvenation and relaxation as well as a playground for thrill seekers and adventurers.  The friendliness, honesty and openness of Kiwis will impress you making New Zealand an ideal holiday destination.

 

Links – New Zealand

New Zealand Tourism Online Award winning New Zealand tourism Web site
Tourism New Zealand Official Government tourism Web site
Rotary International NZ Rotary club information for New Zealand
InterIsland Ferry Ferry travel between the North and South Islands
New Zealand Customs NZ Customs information
Woodhill Luxury B & B Kaikoura