media information

1 contents

New Zealand Tourism Page 1

Background Information Page 2

People Page 4

Ma¯ori Culture Page 4

Nature Page 5

Culture Page 8

Wine Page 8

Cuisine Page 9

Indulgence Page 10

Creativity Page 10

Events Page 12

Sport Page 13

Adventure Page 14

Hiking Page 14

Fishing and diving Page 15

North Island Regions Page 16

South Island Regions Page 18

General Information Page 20

Interesting Facts Page 21

1 tourism

O Matou Whenua, O Matou Tangata, O Matou Taonga Our Land Our People Our Treasures

New Zealand has a rich history of promoting Australia is New Zealand’s largest tourism tourism. Tourism New Zealand is the market, contributing more that 990,000 world’s oldest national tourism organisation, visitors each year. The European market is and celebrated its centenary in 2001. It also important to New Zealand, especially was a wise investment the New Zealand the United Kingdom which provides over Government made on February 1, 1901, 260,000 visitors annually. when it launched the first government The United States of America is our third department devoted to tourism. largest market, with just under 200,000 visitors From a mere 5,000 international visitors in the last year. then, more than 2.4 million overseas Key markets such as Japan, South Korea, travelers now visit New Zealand each year China, Hong Kong, Taiwan and Singapore and tourism is the country’s largest earners collectively provide more than 345,000 visitors of foreign exchange. International visitors for New Zealand each year. Visitor arrival contribute $8.3 billion to New Zealand’s numbers from China, our fastest growing economy every year and this figure is market, have increased by more than 33% increasing annually. over the last five years.

ARRIVALS YEAR ENDING APRIL 2009 Australia 992,674 Canada 49,821 China, PRC 112,783 Germany 62,776 Hong Kong (SAR) 21,840 India 24,073 Japan 95,696 Korea, Republic of 68,035 Malyasia 18,939 Netherlands 24,982 Northern Europe 29,600 Singapore 29,086 Taiwan 17,727 Thailand 19,133 United Kingdom 263,903 United States of America 196,859 Global Total 2,405,628 *Results are for the 12 months year ending April 2009. Source: Statistics New Zealand media.newzealand.com

1 background information

New Zealand is located in the southern Increased European settlement was Pacific Ocean, approximately 1,600 causing concern for both M¯a ori and kilometres south-east of Australia. law-abiding settlers in the ensuing years New Zealand comprises two main islands and it was not until 1840 that any formal (the North and South Islands) and many agreement was signed by the M¯a ori small islands. The combined total land people of New Zealand and the European area is 270,534 square kilometres. settlers. This agreement, formally known New Zealand experiences summer from as the (named after December to February and winter from the town where it was signed), is June to August. New Zealand is 1,600 New Zealand’s founding document. The kilometres long and 450 kilometres signing of the Treaty between more than wide at its widest part. Covering an 500 M¯a ori chiefs and representatives area of approximately 270,000 square of the British Crown is commemorated kilometres, it is roughly the size of Japan, annually on February 6 as New Zealand’s the British Isles or California. national day - Waitangi Day. M¯a ori are the tangata whenua (people New Zealand became a self-governing of the land) or indigenous people of British colony in 1856, a Dominion in and arrived in several migration 1907, and fully independent in 1947. ‘waves’ in New Zealand about 1,000 New Zealand is an independent state years ago. On a voyage of discovery, of the Commonwealth. The Governor Dutch navigator Abel Tasman sailed General represents the Queen of up the West Coast of New Zealand in England in New Zealand. 1642, but did not stay long after his The democratic government operates only attempt at landing on New Zealand under the Mixed Member Proportional shores was repelled by M¯a ori. (MMP) Parliamentary system of 120 Europeans did not rediscover seats. M¯a ori may vote as New Zealand until 1769, when the part of the general electorate, or in one of British naval captain James Cook and the specially allocated M¯a ori seats. In the his crew became the first Europeans 2008 election, seven seats were set aside to lay claim to New Zealand. for M¯a ori.

2 While New Zealand’s primary New Zealand is a member of the United manufacturing industries are the food Nations and is a party to approximately processing industry (meat and dairy) 2,500 international treaties. Many of and the engineering sector, New Zealand these are multilateral environmental has an increasingly strong competitive agreements such as the Antarctic Treaty advantage in food processing technology, of 1959, the United Nations Convention telecommunications, plastics, textiles, on the Law of the Sea (1982) and the plantation forest products, electronics, United Nations Framework Convention climbing equipment and apparel. In on Climate Change (1992). The Kyoto recent years there has also been a far Protocol, part of this Convention, and greater interest in the production of of which New Zealand is a signatory specialised lifestyle products such as to, introduces binding commitments yachts. These industries are reflected in for countries to limit greenhouse gas the variety of companies listed on emissions. New Zealand’s stock exchange, the NZX. New Zealand’s economy is heavily dependent on overseas trade. It is a member of the World Trade Organisation and the OECD. New Zealand is also a member of the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC), a regional organisation set up in 1989 and comprised of 21 member economies around the Pacific Rim. APEC’s goal is to achieve free trade with no tariff barriers between its members. In 1983 New Zealand and Australia signed the Australia-New Zealand Closer Economic Relations Trade Agreement (CER), the most comprehensive trade agreement entered into by either country.

media.newzealand.com 3 people One of the best things about M¯aori Culture New Zealand is its warm and friendly About 15% of New Zealand’s population people. Fun in New Zealand is about of just over 4 million are of M¯a ori descent friends, family and welcoming visitors. and are affiliated to a recognised tribe. New Zealand may be a small country but M¯a ori trace their families back through it’s got a great attitude. Kiwis believe they their whakapapa (genealogy), to the waka can do anything and love a challenge to (canoe) that their ancestors sailed across prove it. That ‘can do’ attitude has placed the vast Pacific Ocean. them at the top of many fields. M¯a ori have a rich and dynamic culture, Guest houses, private hotels, bed and which captures their age old connection breakfasts and farm stays offer an with the spiritual and natural worlds. opportunity to get to know Through their whakapapa they continue New Zealanders on a personal level. to identify with this connection by way of The classic style country pub with their mihi (greeting). They will name their a warm friendly atmosphere is also a maunga (mountain), their awa (river), their great way to get to know the locals, marae (meeting place), their waka, their particularly the pubs on the West Coast iwi (tribe) and their t¯u puna (ancestors) of the . within the mihi. Te reo M¯a ori is a living language spoken by about a quarter of the M¯a ori population in New Zealand. Around half of those speakers are under 25. It is a Polynesian language (similar to other Pacific languages such as Hawaiian and Tahitian), which possesses a unique poetry and musicality. M¯a ori is one of the two official languages in New Zealand.

4 nature

With a third of the country protected in stretches over 1.2 million parks and reserves, the wilderness is hectares (three million acres) and always close. As there are no dangerous comprises hundreds of lakes, mountain animals it’s easy to stop on the side of the peaks, deep fiords and rainforests. The road, take a gentle walk down a track and jewel in Fiordland’s crown is Milford leave the crowds behind. Famous for its Sound, described by Rudyard Kipling as clean, green environment, New Zealand the “eighth wonder of the world”. is a combination of beautiful landscapes; In New Zealand you can join a whale- from vast mountain chains to grand watching expedition off the coast of volcanoes, sweeping coasts and deep Kaikoura or swim with dolphins. The fiords, lush rainforests, grassy plains, rich wilderness of Stewart Island offers one of thermal areas and expansive beaches. the best chances to spot New Zealand’s One of the more unique aspects of national bird, the kiwi, in its natural New Zealand’s geography is the habitat. Further north in the extensive geothermal activity. The North world’s rarest penguin - the yellow-eyed Island’s central volcanic plateau is penguin - can be viewed in its natural the best place to see geysers, boiling habitat from trenches just inches away. mud pools and steaming lake edges. The takahe population is down to just Whakarewarewa is the traditional 221, but the birds can easily be seen on focal point for tourists and is also the the island sanctuary of Tiritiri Matangi in sacred ground of the Ngati Wahiao and ’s Hauraki Gulf. Tuhourangi hapu, or sub tribes. New Zealand was the second country On the West Coast of the South Island, in the world to establish a national park remnants of the ice age cascade from (Tongariro) following in the footsteps of the Southern Alps to valley floors in the United States (Yellowstone National rainforest just 300 metres above sea Park). Today New Zealand has 14 level. This combination of ice and national parks and one of the highest temperate rainforest is a unique feature rates of protected areas in the world. of New Zealand’s glacier country, and UNESCO World Heritage sites are places is an ecosystem found nowhere else in with cultural or national significance, the world. The in as decreed by the World Heritage Westland National Park is New Zealand’s Committee. New Zealand currently has steepest and fastest moving glacier. three World Heritage sites: Fiordland in South West New Zealand is Te Wahipounamu (South West one of only two places in the world where New Zealand), fiords can be seen. It is the work of 500 and the Sub Antarctic Islands. million years of constant sculpting by the elements.

media.newzealand.com 5 nature cont.

Te Wahipounamu incorporates Fiordland, New Zealand is home to fierce-looking Westland, Mount Aspiring and Mount but harmless insects known as the weta. Cook national parks. Two-thirds of the They look like a cross between crickets area is covered with southern beech and and grasshoppers, but are larger and podocarps, some of which are more than usually brown. The biggest species of 800 years old. The kea, the only alpine weta - weta punga, or the giant weta - is parrot in the world, lives in the area as found on Little Barrier Island and grows does the rare and endangered takahe, to the size of a small bird. Many weta are a large flightless bird. In 1993 Tongariro protected, and are almost unchanged National Park, in the central , from their ancestors of 190 million became the first property to be inscribed years ago. on the World Heritage List under the The rare, flightless kiwi, takahe and revised cultural criteria describing cultural birds are unique to New Zealand. landscapes. The mountains at the heart Like many native birds, the kiwi’s survival of the park have cultural and religious in the wild is tenuous, with predators significance for M¯a ori and symbolise the such as feral cats and stoats impacting spiritual links between the community dramatically on numbers. The Department and its environment. New Zealand’s of Conservation has implemented a kiwi Sub Antarctic Islands are the Auckland, recovery programme which should see Snares, Campbell, Bounty and Antipodes bird numbers increase. Islands, situated south-east of New Zealand. The islands have huge One of the biggest threats to native flora numbers and varieties of wildlife, and fauna in New Zealand is the possum. including birds, plants and invertebrates They destroy native trees and other plants found nowhere else in the world. by eating shoots and leaves, compete with native birds for food and are responsible Some of the country’s flora and fauna for killing many kiwi chicks. They also eat are among the rarest in the world or are the eggs and young of other native birds. unique to New Zealand. The Hector’s The possum population is estimated to dolphin (the world’s smallest marine be about 70 million despite intensive dolphin) and the world’s rarest sea lion, eradication programmes. It does have the Hooker’s sea lion, are only found in one redeeming feature - its luxuriant, New Zealand waters. The oldest living mink-like fur. Production of possum fur genus of reptile is the native New Zealand products is rapidly becoming a lucrative tuatara. Tuatara have a life expectancy industry. Numerous companies use the of 300 years and it is estimated they can fur to produce luxurious bedspreads, be traced back 190 million years to the jackets, socks and hats. Possum fur has Mesozoic era. featured in the designs of New Zealand fashion designers such as Karen Walker.

6 Walking through native rainforest in The concept of kaitiakitanga or New Zealand is a unique experience. Above guardianship embodies the duties and is a leafy, green canopy, at eye level a mass obligations M¯a ori have to care for and of ferns, tree ferns, vines and palms, and observe the rituals appropriate to the area underfoot a carpet of delicate mosses and concerned. This could be a geographical lichens. The tallest tree, known by its M¯a area, an area of activity (such as the ori name kahikatea, reaches 60 metres and marae - or meeting place) or taonga is a type of conifer called a podocarp. But (sacred things) such as te reo (language) the most famous tree is the kauri, one of or waiata (song). It is managed by people the largest found anywhere in the world. within the hapu (sub tribe) or iwi (tribe) A specimen in the North Island’s Waipoua - people who are trained and recognised forest has a girth of 13.7 metres, stands for their skills and abilities. 51.2 metres tall and is estimated to be between 1,500 and 2,000 years old. The tree is easily accessible to visitors and is so revered it has its own name, Tane Mahuta (Lord of the forest). The M¯a ori approach to the environment is holistic: everything both animate and inanimate is inextricably connected and interrelated. Central to this is the M¯a ori world-view built around a cosmology that links all parts of the earth and nature in a family. All are bound together by whakapapa (genealogy). At the heart of whakapapa is mauri. Mauri is the life force that exists in all things and binds the world together; it is the dynamic force that enlivens and regenerates the environment. Mauri can be degraded through physical harm (such as destruction or pollution) and through failure to observe appropriate rites and rituals. Over the centuries, M¯a ori have developed a set of customs and lore to conserve, manage and protect the environment and in effect preserve mauri.

media.newzealand.com 7 culture Wine concentrated wine with peach and grapefruit flavours. Marlborough, New Zealand’s largest The wine industry in New Zealand has chardonnay producer tends to produce zesty achieved remarkable success and a great wines with good acidity and strong white peach international reputation in a relatively short and citrus flavours. time. The long growing season and cool maritime climate here make conditions New Zealand pinot noir is also gaining a ideal for grape growing, producing some strong international reputation. At the 2008 distinctive, premium quality wines. International Wine Challenge, New Zealand pinot noir was a clear winner, claiming the Pinot Noir New Zealand’s major grape growing areas are Trophy for the third consecutive year as well as in the dry, sunny eastern regions, with the receiving six gold medals. Pinot noir relishes three main areas being Gisborne, Hawke’s cool temperatures and low rainfall so performs Bay and Marlborough. Other key wine regions particularly well in the Martinborough region and are Auckland, Martinborough, Nelson, Central Otago. Bob Campbell believes pinot noir Waipara and Central Otago. These regions is one of the most exciting wine styles in New span the latitudes of 36 to 45 degrees and Zealand at present, in terms of growth both in cover the length of 1,600 kilometres (1,000 reputation and sales. He defines it as very fruity, miles). The northern hemisphere equivalent tending to be softer and more approachable would run from Bordeaux (between the than the wines of the benchmark, Burgandy. latitudes of 44 and 46 degrees) down to New Zealand also excels in a number of other southern Spain. As a result of the grapes varieties such as riesling and Bordeaux-style being grown in such a range of mini-climates reds. and soil types, a diverse range of styles has developed. There is a growing awareness of wine , and visitors are encouraged Sauvignon blanc is New Zealand’s most to explore and interact by following the Classic commonly planted grape, accounting for Trail. The main wine regions more than 50% of all New Zealand wine. each host an annual wine and food festival, and According to Bob Campbell MW (Master of most of New Zealand’s wineries have tastings Wines), New Zealand has built a reputation available. Many of the larger wineries run for producing the world’s best sauvignon restaurants or cafés as part of their business, blanc. New Zealand’s unique style is more and offer both retail and online wine sales. pungently fruity than any other wine from the grape variety. Tohu Wines is the first indigenous branded wine to be produced for the New Zealand export Chardonnay is New Zealand’s most widely market. It is a wholly-owned M¯a ori company grown variety, thriving in all of the major wine that believes in the shared ancient traditions growing regions. Hawke’s Bay, Gisborne and of spirituality and harmony with the land. Marlborough are particularly well known Since 2009, all Tohu vineyards are certified by for their chardonnay, although each region Sustainable Winegrowing New Zealand. produces its own distinct style. Gisborne chardonnays for example, tend to be softer with ripe peach, melon and pineapple flavours. Hawke’s Bay produces a more

8 Cuisine According to New Zealand chef Peter Gordon, co-owner of The Providores and Tapa Room in New Zealand’s diverse range of climates London and dine in Auckland, New Zealand allows the harvesting of an abundance of offers great food in smart surroundings with fresh produce. Some of the better known service that is both professional and friendly. He are kiwifruit, apples, a huge range of stone believes you can experience one of the most and berry fruit, kumara (sweet potato) and asparagus. But New Zealand producers are memorable meals of your life in a New Zealand quick to meet the demands of local chefs restaurant. As Peter says, “a native paua cooked and have recently been producing olives, just so, drizzled with some lemon scented extra walnuts, saffron, avocado oil, baby vegetables virgin olive oil and topped with a little mashed and unusual lettuces. New Zealand food is kumara (sweet potato) will make you feel good, exported all over the world, especially to the both physically and emotionally.” Northern Hemisphere where opposing seasons According to M¯a ori legend an abundant supply mean we can provide out of season produce. of food is considered a gift from the gods. M¯a ori Being surrounded by ocean means have traditionally cooked food in a ground oven, New Zealand’s seafood is fresh and plentiful. or hangi. The cooking of a hangi involves a lot of New Zealand favourites include Bluff oysters, time, planning and skill. Rocks are heated in a green lipped mussels, crayfish (lobster), paua fire and placed in an earth pit. The food is placed (abalone), whitebait and snapper. Seafood, or on top in steel baskets and covered with foil. The kaimoana as it is commonly referred to by pit is then covered over with wet sugar or potato M¯a ori, is as important to M¯a ori as the land. sacks, then earth. This ensures the heat is kept in The sea is not only a major source of food, and cooks the food slowly. but has customary value as well. It is an The traditional M¯a ori palate has evolved over important way of expressing generosity at tribal the years, though the essence of the use of gatherings and as a status symbol in food has not. Traditional M¯a ori cooking flavours, M¯a ori culture, kaimoana rates highly. including horopito and kawakawa plants, are New Zealand’s meat and dairy products are being increasingly snapped up by upmarket renowned for their quality. Dairy products are restaurants in New Zealand. An example already one of New Zealand’s largest exports. Beef, in production is a combination of kawakawa, lamb, cervena (venison) and salmon are horopito, chilli and lime used to flavour mussels. all commercially farmed. Organic food has Charles Royal is a M¯a ori chef reintroducing a become a significant industry, with many tradition of cooking with indigenous herbs, spices local supermarkets selling organic meats and flavours. and vegetables. Visitors to the New Zealand can experience a day New Zealanders are known for their desire to out with Charles, learning about the sustainable travel, so when chefs return home they bring harvesting of indigenous foods from the forest with them ideas and skills honed overseas. This has produced a diverse restaurant scene and then enjoying a meal prepared for them at that offers funky cafés, tea rooms, espresso the end of the tour. bars with home roasted coffee and fine dining establishments. media.newzealand.com 9 culture cont.

Indulgence Creativity Pampering yourself in New Zealand is easy. New Zealand’s art and culture draw from a From international hotels to intimate and wide range of ethnic origins, producing an luxurious lodges to beach resorts and health interesting blend of M¯a ori, European, Asian spas, New Zealand offers some truly indulgent and Pacific Island themes. experiences. The scene reflects this New Zealand has 10 lodges listed by Small mixture. Some of New Zealand’s most valuable Luxury Hotels of the World, including Huka paintings are M¯a ori portraits painted by Lodge in Taupo, Blanket Bay Lodge in Charles Goldie in the 19th century. Painter Queenstown, Grasmere Lodge in , Colin McCahon, whose work features the use Mollies in Auckland and Wharekauhau Country of words, Christian iconography and M¯a ori Estate in the Wairarapa region. Many other language and myth, is considered by many to boutique lodges offer quality accommodation be New Zealand’s greatest artist. A number of throughout the country, often in remote art galleries feature the work of these and other locations. Spa treatments are increasingly being well known New Zealand artists such as Ralph offered as part of the experience. Hotere, Grahame Sydney and Rita Angus. Thermal springs, resulting from New Zealand’s Many New Zealand writers fuse M¯a ori culture location on the ‘Pacific Rim of Fire’ are found and legend into works written in English. Keri throughout the country. These were favourite Hulme won the prestigious Booker Prize in areas for the location of M¯a ori villages 1985 for her groundbreaking novel ‘The Bone hundreds of years ago and became popular People’. Others to combine the two worlds with Europeans who valued the healing and create distinctly properties of the mineral waters. include Patricia Grace, Witi Ihimaera and Hone Famous for its geysers and boiling mud, Tuwhare. Alan Duff is best known for his book is New Zealand’s best known spa town. ‘Once Were Warriors’, which was made into a Many hotels and motels in Rotorua have their film directed by Lee Tamahori. own natural spas and at the Polynesian Spa The local film industry continues to grow, you can choose from a range of temperatures following the success of Hollywood’s most and mineral compositions. expensive production ever, Peter Jackson’s New Zealand’s main spa resort in an ‘The Lord of the Rings’ trilogy filmed in alpine setting is Hanmer Springs, north of New Zealand. The trilogy won a total of 17 Christchurch. Hanmer offers thermal springs, Academy Awards. spa treatments and a range of adventure and The New Zealand landscape featured in the leisure activities. films has increased the country’s international profile. Virtually all the sets have been dismantled and the locations returned to their original condition, but visitors can still

10 discover Middle-Earth thanks to Tolkien directed ‘The Lion, the Witch and the enthusiast Ian Brodie. His book ‘The Lord Wardrobe’ (2005) and 'The Chronicles of of the Rings Location Guidebook’ helps Narnia: Prince Caspian' (2008), based visitors to pinpoint filming locations, many of on the Narnia book series by C.S. Lewis. which are situated within national parks and Recognisable film locations include conservation estates. Woodhill Forest in Auckland, Cathedral Cove in the Coromandel, Flock Hill Station Hobbit fever is set to continue with the in Canterbury, and Elephant Rocks near making of the much-awaited 'Lord of the Duntroon. Rings' prequel. Producer Peter Jackson and director Guillermo del Toro have announced New Zealand music is also currently that 'The Hobbit' will comprise two movies attracting global attention. Performers due in December 2011 and 2012, and such as The Datsuns, Shihad, Brooke will be shot using some of the same New Fraser, Ladyhawke and Fat Freddy’s Drop Zealand locations used to make the trilogy. are all making waves on the international music scene. New Zealand comedy duo ‘Whale Rider’ (directed by Niki Caro and Flight of the Conchords - a cult favourite based on a book by Witi Ihimaera) stunned in the United States thanks to their HBO audiences at the 2002 Toronto International television show - was awarded a grammy Film Festival and was honoured with the for Best Comedy Album in 2008 for their People’s Choice award. The film portrays life EP ‘The Distant Future’. Moana Maniapoto in a small M¯a ori community, and features a and her group The Tribe have established cultural performance by Mai Tawhiti, a kapa a strong reputation overseas for acoustic haka (performing arts) group. ‘Whale Rider’ M¯a ori music. New Zealand opera singers was filmed on location in a small village near Dame Kiri Te Kanawa and Dame Malvina Gisborne in the Eastland region, which is Major both have international careers, as the first place in the world to see the sunrise does Neil Finn, the founder of pop group each day. Crowded House. Teenage singer Hayley Actor Keisha Castle-Hughes had never Westenra made history in 2003 when her starred in a movie before acting in ‘Whale album ‘Pure’ went to number one in the Rider’ but she went on to become the UK classical charts in its first week of sales, youngest person ever nominated for an outselling albums by Luciano Pavarotti and Academy Awards in the ‘actress in a leading Andrea Bocelli. role’ category. Designers from throughout New Zealand are Recent projects on the New Zealand movie establishing themselves in the premier ranks scene include Peter Jackson’s remake of the fashion world. Karen Walker, Zambesi, of the movie ‘King Kong’, which was World and Nom-D have all been showcased released in December 2005. Kiwi-born at Australian Fashion Week and London Andrew Adamson, who earned acclaim Fashion Week. This success has helped for the animation movie ‘Shrek’, has since Air New Zealand Fashion Week establish

media.newzealand.com 11 culture cont.

itself on the international calendar in October. October each year. WOW has become so Local fabrics are utilised by New Zealand popular that it has been extended to nine designers including Trelise Cooper, Kate shows spread over two weeks. Sylvester and Tanya Carlson. The merino wool Food and wine festivals are held around and possum fur creations of the Untouched New Zealand from October to March World label have become a success both here (spring through to autumn). and overseas. The Hokitika Wildfoods Festival is held in Located on the waterfront, March each year featuring arguably the New Zealand’s national museum Te Papa wackiest selection of cuisine in the world. Tongarewa (the translation means ‘a repository Seagull eggs, purple M¯a ori potato, huhu of treasures’) is a celebration of New Zealand’s grubs, mako shark, eel and titi (muttonbird) identity - the people, the culture and the are just a few of the foods on offer. environment. Playful, imaginative, interactive and bold, Te Papa is quintessentially Kiwi - Adventure races include The Southern high-tech and great fun. Traverse, a gruelling three day non-stop Live theatre and dance have always flourished adventure race held annually, the Coast and local performances have a uniquely Kiwi to Coast, a one or two day event over 243 flavour. Live music thrives in the main centres kilometres of South Island terrain, and the and local performers pride themselves on Taupo Ironman. taking their art to all corners of the country. Garden and flower festivals take place around the country during spring, summer and Events early autumn. The Ellerslie Flower Show in New Zealand is increasingly attracting Christchurch is the largest garden show in the international visitors to the diverse range of Southern Hemisphere and takes place over events it hosts each year, from art festivals to five days in March. adventure races. The Te Matatini kapa haka festival is a biennial Art festivals are held all over the country. event attracting thousands of visitors to The largest cultural event is the biennial experience the power, beauty and grace of M¯a International Arts Festival, held in Wellington oridom’s finest exponents of haka (dance). in February. On alternative years, the International Arts Festival is held in Auckland. Matariki (the M¯a ori New Year) is celebrated Both festivals incorporate classical music, in mid-winter each year during a month- jazz, pop, opera, traditional performances long festival of events all over the country. from around the world, and contemporary Matariki refers to the star cluster Pleiades New Zealand artists, including M¯a ori dance (or Mata Ariki – the eyes of God), which and modern ballet. becomes visible in the eastern sky after the first new moon in June. Traditionally, Matariki The Montana World of Wearable Art Awards was a time to give thanks as the natural (WOW) celebrates creativity and art where world regenerated and another season creators are limited only by their imaginations. began. The food stores were full and people The show is held in late September to early

12 gathered to welcome the ‘new year’ planting the number of native bush and coastal trails season with ceremonial ritual, singing and developed to take advantage of New Zealand’s feasting. In recent years, regions such as terrain. World-class mountain biking tracks Hawke’s Bay, Wellington, Auckland and - suitable for all levels of biker - have been Northland have developed Matariki festivals created in a number of regions around the to celebrate their M¯a ori heritage. country. Sport New Zealand has a growing number of luxury golf resorts that boast championship courses Sport is an integral part of New Zealand up and down the country. Set on rolling coastal life. New Zealanders play it, watch it and farmland near Matauri Bay, Northland, the golf support all those who wear the silver fern - course at Kauri Cliffs and the new course at the iconic symbol of the country’s sporting Cape Kidnappers in Hawke's Bay have been representatives. rated by international media as two of the New Zealanders are passionate about rugby world’s best. Other outstanding New Zealand and avidly support the national team, the golf resorts include Gulf Harbour Country Club All Blacks. The country is also looking forward near Auckland, the thermally active Wairakei to hosting the Rugby World Cup in 2011. Golf Course in Taupo and Millbrook Resort New Zealand has produced dozens of located near Queenstown. The Hills Golf Course world champions who have represented the also close to Queenstown, hosted the New country in a diverse range of sports from golf, Zealand Open golf tournament from 2007 to rowing, discus and surf lifesaving to horse 2010. Terrace Downs and Clearwater Resort riding and sailing. are two newer golf destinations located near the Southern Alps in the Canterbury region. One high-profile New Zealand sportsperson is Mahe Drysdale, three-times World Champion New Zealand pioneered the concept of single sculler and Olympic medalist. In 2010, adventure tourism in 1988 when AJ Hackett New Zealand will host the 39th World established the world’s first commercial bungy jumping experience in Queenstown. Rowing Championships at Lake Karapiro. The Southern Lakes region is the Southern New Zealanders don’t just love their Hemisphere’s premier skiing destination, international sportspeople succeeding on offering a wide choice of world-class ski areas the world stage - they keenly participate in the with everything from snowboarding to cross many sporting and recreational activities that country and heliskiing. Queenstown has are affordable and accessible to everyone. attractions for all seasons, including tandem There are facilities nationwide for people parachuting, parapenting and paragliding, wanting to enjoy sporting activities. jetboating and whitewater rafting on the famous Mountain biking is one of New Zealand’s Shotover River, kayaking, waterskiing and four- fastest growing pastimes - largely due to wheel drive experiences.

media.newzealand.com 13 adventure

Adventures can be found around the Situated at the top of the South Island and country - abseiling in the Bay of Islands, drenched in sunlight, the Abel Tasman rafting on the world’s highest commercially National Park offers spectacular ocean views, rafted waterfall in Rotorua, climbing Mt Cook glittering beaches and clear turquoise waters. (the country’s highest mountain) or exploring A diverse range of wildlife inhabits this area, White Island, New Zealand's only active including penguins, a seal colony at Tonga marine volcano off the coast of Whakatane. Island, and tui and bellbirds in the forest. New Zealand boasts some of the most One of the best ways to experience the exhilarating caving, extreme skiing, surfing Abel Tasman is to combine a kayak and windsurfing in the world. Zorbing, also and walk option. invented in New Zealand, offers a surreal Located at the northeastern tip of the South ride from hilltop to valley bottom inside a Island, the Queen Charlotte Track is full of giant plastic ball. contrasts; from lush subtropical rainforest to sheltered shorelines and skyline ridges, Hiking with unsurpassed views of the sunken river New Zealand has no shortage of walking valleys. Water transport on this track allows and trekking opportunities including flexibility and the option of walking with a the nine 'Great Walks'. In New Zealand. light day pack. Walks of up to a day’s duration are found Whirinaki Track is set within a 60,000 everywhere, even in city greenbelts, but the hectare native rainforest in the Central internationally acclaimed multi-day tracks North Island, with five native tree species, are in more remote areas of the country. some towering more than 65 metres. It is Most of New Zealand’s premier walking also home to a wide range of rare wildlife tracks offer guided and fully catered options. and bird species, some of which date back can be completed as a to the Jurassic era 200 million years ago. three-day alpine trek or combined with Professional M¯a ori guided tours are available the Greenstone Track in a six-day traverse through the forest with detailed flora and through the World Heritage areas of fauna interpretation. and Mt Aspiring Stewart Island Track offers one of the best National Park. These award-winning chances most people will ever have of treks pass through rainforest areas, lakes, seeing New Zealand’s national bird, the kiwi, waterfalls and high alpine pastures. in its natural environment. Many centuries Hollyford Track is located in Fiordland ago M¯a ori came by canoe to Rakiura National Park north of Milford Sound. A (Stewart Island) to harvest shellfish and World Heritage wilderness area, Hollyford mutton birds, traditions still carried out offers glimpses of rare New Zealand birds, today by local iwi. Stewart Island is located seals and dolphins, as well as historical sites south of the South Island. The Island is of early M¯a ori and European settlement. home to New Zealand's newest national The Hollyford travels through rainforests, park, Rakiura National Park, which covers past snow-capped mountains and rivers, about 85 percent of the island. to a wild West Coast beach.

14 The Tuatapere Hump Ridge Track in the Fishing and Diving south-west corner of the South Island, links Te Wae Wae Bay on the southern coastline Fresh water or salt - New Zealand is an with New Zealand’s deepest lake, Lake angler’s paradise, offering some of the Hauroko. The Hump Ridge Track climbs most beautiful locations imaginable. The above bush and provides views across the whole country is crisscrossed with rivers southern glacial lakes. Highlights include and lakes and the introduction of brown Blue Cliffs Beach (the start and end point), and rainbow trout in the latter part of the sandstone tors and a chance to see the 19th century has created excellent highest remaining wooden viaduct in fly-fishing opportunities. the world, the Edwin Burn viaduct. The New Zealand has 15,811 kilometres of Tuatapere Hump Ridge Track is a three-day coastline (longer than that of the mainland hike covering 53 kilometres. United States) which means there is almost Often referred to as one of the finest walks unlimited potential for ocean fishing. It has in the world, is a 55 kilometre been estimated that almost one in four encounter that boasts deep lakes, fiords, New Zealanders participate in sea fishing. rainforest and canyons carved out of granite. New Zealand was put on the map of big game salt-water fishing in the 1920s, The Cape Brett lighthouse stands at the following the visit of legendary American entrance to the Bay of Islands in Northland. writer, Zane Grey. The Cape Brett Track from Te Rawhiti (Oke Bay) to the lighthouse (and hut) takes New Zealand is also a diver’s dream. Coastal approximately eight hours and covers about waters team with colourful, fascinating sea 20 kilometres of undulating ground. The life and the often exceptionally clear waters track takes in panoramic views of the Bay make for spectacular viewing, especially of Islands, historical Pa sites, kauri forest, from February to June. beaches and private coves. The seven The clear waters of the marine reserve distinctive peaks that mark the spine of the around the Poor Knights Islands (offshore Cape Brett peninsula are said to represent from the port of Tutukaka in Northland) are the seven waka (canoes) on which M¯a ori considered one of the country’s best diving sailed in the migration from their mythical spots. An amazing range of fish, including homeland of Hawaiiki. The Cape Brett many tropical species, led the late Jacques Track is open year-round. Cousteau to rate the Poor Knights as one of the world’s top ten diving locations.

media.newzealand.com 15 north island regions.

Auckland & Northland Auckland’s layout makes it easy to jump quickly from one theme to another - within The relaxed, sunny lifestyle of Northland half an hour, you can be on an island in the springs from its subtropical climate and Hauraki Gulf, trekking through native forest, the myriad of islands, bays and beaches sampling wines at a vineyard or walking around the extensive coastline. It is believed along a wild, black sand surf beach. that the first Polynesian voyagers arrived in Urban attractions such as shopping, this region during the 11th century, but it restaurants, bars and local theatre are wasn’t until after the landing of the British part of the city’s fabric. sea voyager Captain Cook in 1769 that missionaries, whalers and traders arrived. Central North Island The Treaty of Waitangi, the document that Of all the regions in New Zealand, the founded bicultural New Zealand, was signed Central North Island is perhaps the most in the Bay of Islands in 1840. Northland is diverse. It offers the volcanic plateau, rich in M¯a ori history, and over 31 percent high altitude ski fields, surf beaches, of its population is M¯a ori. The Ngapuhi geothermal activity and wine regions. tribe of the North is the largest iwi in the The Pacific Coast Highway is one of country with a population of 122,211 M¯a ori the region’s two major touring routes. It according to the latest census. follows the East Coast, featuring the beaches With the Tasman Sea buffeting the west around the Coromandel Peninsula, Bay coast and the South Pacific Ocean lapping of Plenty and Eastland, on the way to the east coast, activities in this region are Hawke’s Bay, which is one often water-related. Chartering a skippered of New Zealand’s key yacht to explore the Hauraki Gulf or the wine regions. Bay of Islands is a quick route to isolated beaches, bays and islands. You can also The Thermal Explorer is explore by hiring a runabout, kayaking, or the other major touring route. taking a ferry. Snorkelling, surfing, big game It leads you to or from Hawke’s fishing or dolphin-watching are experiences Bay across the volcanic plateau, that are easily found along the region’s where New Zealand’s location on the ‘Pacific touring route - the Twin Coast Rim of Fire’ is evident. You can experience Discovery Highway. natural hot spring spas, geothermal parks full of geysers and boiling mud pools and Auckland is New Zealand’s the site of New Zealand’s largest volcanic largest city with a population eruption in living memory, Mount Tarawera. of over 1.3 million people. The city of Rotorua is the home of Te Arawa, Its unusual geography and one of the larger and more cohesive iwi temperate climate has inspired (tribal) groupings. This accounts for the a lifestyle that’s regularly large number of M¯a ori (36%) living in ranked in the world’s Rotorua and makes it one of the best places top ten. in New Zealand to learn about M¯a ori culture.

16 Beneath the Waitomo area, the ground is a Wanganui River as he went and, upon labyrinth of limestone passages and caves, reaching the ocean, turned north. While he which can either be explored on foot or on slumbered overnight, the Pouakai Ranges the water - an activity known as black water thrust out a spur and trapped Taranaki in rafting. Further south, the Tongariro Crossing, the place he now rests. considered New Zealand’s best one day The Egmont National Park encompasses the walk, is another type of adventure which mountain and the land around it. Hiking is features moonscape craters, lava formations the thing to do here. Rainforest covers the and emerald-blue lakes. foothills of the mountain, but the landscape Taranaki & River Regions changes the higher you go. It moves from Mount Taranaki is ever-present in this tall rimu and kamahi trees at lower region - a huge, dramatic volcanic altitudes through to dense sub-alpine cone with a snowy top. One version shrubs, then an alpine herb field with of M¯a ori history recalls how Mount plants unique to the park. Taranaki once lived in the centre The forest on Mount Taranaki’s middle of New Zealand’s North Island slopes is sometimes known as ‘Goblin with other mountain gods: Forest’ because of the gnarled shape Tongariro, Ruapehu and of the trees and the thick swathes Ngauruhoe. Nearby stood of trailing moss. the lovely maid Pihanga The climate of Taranaki and the River with her cloak of deep green Region makes this area a paradise for bush, and all the mountain gods extravagant flowering plants such as were in love with her. rhododendrons, azaleas, old-fashioned What had been a long, peaceful existence roses and lavender plantations. Many for the mountain gods was disturbed when private gardens are available for public Taranaki could no longer keep his feelings viewing year-round. Around 50 gardens in control and dared to make advances are open to the public during the Taranaki to Pihanga. Rhododendron Festival, held during the peak blooming period in late A mighty conflict between Tongariro October/early November. and Taranaki ensued, which shook the foundations of the earth. The mountains Wairarapa & Wellington belched forth their anger and darkness The , clouded the sky. Wellington is also a cultural When peace finally came to the land, centre. It is home to the Tongariro, considerably lowered in height, Museum of New Zealand Te Papa stood close by Pihanga’s side. Taranaki, Tongarewa, the New Zealand Symphony wild with grief and anger, tore himself from Orchestra and national treasures such his roots with a mighty wrench and left his as the original Treaty of Waitangi and homeland. Weeping, he plunged recklessly Katherine Mansfield’s birthplace. The city towards the setting sun, gouging out the is compact and interesting, set between

media.newzealand.com 17 south island regions.

a scenic harbour and bush clad hills. Martinborough, a short drive West Coast & Canterbury from Wellington, is a popular The South Island region, the largest of wine growing area - specialties the six regions, comprises most of the include pinot noir South Island. and riesling. The West Coast is the narrow strip of land between the South Island’s Southern Nelson & Alps and the Tasman Sea. It is memorable Marlborough for its backdrop of mountain peaks, the Across the Cook Strait is Fox and Franz Josef glaciers, limestone the Marlborough region - one of landscapes, lakes and rivers, lush New Zealand’s largest wine-growing regions. rainforest and a magnificent, wild While sauvignon blanc is considered the coastline. The West Coast contains region’s specialty, Marlborough’s methode the largest area of protected land of any region in New Zealand traditionelle and chardonnay wines are also and provides access to five well known. The Marlborough Sounds is of New Zealand’s 14 national another key attraction, featuring spectacular parks. The southern west coast is part of scenery where bush and mountains rise the larger South West New Zealand area straight from the sea. The Sounds can be designated by UNESCO as a World Heritage explored by boat or by foot - the 67 kilometre Site for its recognition as a ‘special place’ in Queen Charlotte Track offers excellent views the world. as it passes through coastal forest, around coves and inlets and along ridges. The Canterbury region includes a large central portion of the east coast of the The Nelson region is known for its year- South Island, centred around the city of round sunshine, golden beaches, national Christchurch. One of the highlights of the parks, boutique wineries, micro breweries region is the Alpine Pacific Triangle, a and a large creative community of working touring route which links the alpine and artists. With locally grown produce, freshly thermal village of Hanmer Springs, the wine caught seafood, historical streetscapes and valley of Waipara and Kaikoura. Kaikoura, waterfront restaurants it is easy to see why (which translated from M¯a ori means ‘a place many New Zealanders are relocating to for eating crayfish’) is where the Southern Nelson to enjoy the lifestyle it offers. Alps meet the coast. Fur seals, dusky and From Nelson it’s easy to access any of Hector’s dolphins can be seen from the land, three national parks - Abel Tasman National and a few kilometres further out, giant sperm Park, the Nelson Lakes National Park whales (the third largest whale in the world) and Kahurangi, New Zealand’s second- can be seen year-round. The Whale Watch largest national park, comprising 450,000 organisation in Kaikoura offers tours and is hectares of mostly upland wilderness, with renowned as an ecotourism operator. magnificent three to four-day hiking trails. Sea-kayaking safaris are an excellent way to explore this region.

18 Southland & Otago dramatic wilderness on a grand scale. Famous walking tracks in the area include New Zealand’s southern-most the Routeburn, the Milford, the Greenstone, region, Southland, is home to the Hollyford, the Kepler and the Rees-Dart. the fishing port of Bluff and Located on the shores of Lake Wakatipu its key attraction, the and overlooked by the Remarkables Range, famous Bluff oyster. Queenstown is one of New Zealand’s most From Bluff, visitors popular holiday destinations, featuring can catch a ferry to action such as skiing and snowboarding, New Zealand’s third jetboating, bungy jumping and white water island, Stewart Island - a haven for native rafting. Queenstown and its surrounds bird life and one of the only places in also offer more relaxing activities such New Zealand where you can readily see kiwi as golf, wine tasting in the many boutique in their natural habitat. Approximately 85% wineries, and exploring the historical gold- of Stewart Island comprises New Zealand’s mining townships of Central Otago. The newest national park - Rakiura National region is also becoming famous for its Park, which opened in 2002. restaurants, wineries, five-star resorts, and remote luxury lodges. New Zealand’s first university city, Dunedin, is memorable for its historical architecture. Wanaka is a scenic drive away from Queenstown over one of the It is regarded to be one of the best highest road passes in the preserved Victorian and Edwardian cities in Southern Hemisphere - the the Southern Hemisphere. The city is also Crown Range. Wanaka is renowned for its proximity to wildlife. Within located on the southern shores a short drive from the city, visitors can see of Lake Wanaka. Considered the region’s the hoiho, or yellow-eyed penguin (the second resort town after Queenstown, world’s rarest), the world’s only mainland Wanaka offers spectacular views of Mount breeding colony of the royal albatross and Aspiring National Park. The township offers rare New Zealand sea lions. a combination of outdoor adventure and indoor luxury - the lake, mountains and The Southern Lakes Region year-round events calendar is balanced by The Southern Lakes region is characterised comfortable places to stay, restaurants by adventure, luxury living, snow sports and nearby vineyards. and scenery. As one of the most dramatic and beautiful parts of New Zealand, Fiordland is another part of the World Heritage Site of South West New Zealand and is often called the sightseeing and walking capital of the world. You can explore Fiordland National Park by foot, sea kayak, boat, or from the air. The park covers 1.2 million hectares and showcases

media.newzealand.com 19 general information

Highest point Post Office Mount Cook (3,754 metres or 12,313 feet) Post offices are open Monday to Friday 9am - 5pm, and some are open from Deepest lake 9am - 12noon on Saturdays. Lake Hauroko (462 metres or 1,515 feet) Goods and Services Tax Largest lake GST (Goods and Services Tax) of 12.5% is Lake Taupo (606 square kilometres or applied to the cost of all goods and services 234 square miles) and is generally included in all prices. Longest river Currency River (425 kilometres or 264 Currency is the . miles long) One dollar is equal to 100 cents. Largest glacier Tipping and Service Charges Tasman Glacier (29 kilometres or Gratuities are not expected, but if a 18 miles long) visitor wishes to leave a tip in gratitude Deepest cave for outstanding service, this is acceptable. Nettlebed, Mount Arthur Service charges are not added to hotel or (889 metres or 2,916 feet) restaurant accounts. Source: Statistics New Zealand Emergency Services Offices and Businesses In emergencies, dial 111 to call for Offices and businesses are open police, fire or ambulance services. Monday to Friday 8am - 5.30pm. DO NOT DIAL 911. Trading Banks Electricity Supply Trading banks mostly open Monday New Zealand’s AC electricity supply operates to Friday 9am - 4.30pm, while money at 230/240 volts (50 hertz), machines (known as Automatic the same as Australia. Most hotels and Transaction Machines) are available 24 motels also provide 110 volt, 20 watt, hours. and AC sockets for electric razors. An Shopping adaptor is necessary to operate all other Shops are usually open Monday to Friday electrical equipment. 9am - 5pm, with late nights Thursday Water Supply or Friday to 9pm, and weekends usually Tap (faucet) water in New Zealand is fresh, 10am - 4pm. Convenience stores, known treated and safe to drink. City water is both as dairies, are usually open 7am - 8pm chlorinated and fluoridated. seven days a week. Service stations Smoke-free Law in New Zealand (petrol stations) are open 24 hours in The Smoke-free Environments Amendment most major centres. Act 2003 requires that schools and early childhood centres, licensed premises (bars, restaurants, cafes, sports clubs, casinos), and workplaces are smoke-free.

20 Transport • New Zealand is the first country in the Road cycling is a popular way to get world to see each new day around and the South Island is one of the • A New Zealander, the late Sir Edmund best road cycling locations in the world, Hillary, was the first person to climb providing a mix of populated areas and Mount Everest (with Sherpa Tenzing long stretches of scenery. The best time for Norgay in 1950) road cycling is generally February to April. Motorcycle touring is becoming a popular • It was in fact a New Zealander, Richard alternative. Campervans are another well- William Pearse, who took the world’s used means of transport, offering the first flight - nearly two years before the advantage of combining accommodation Wright Brothers in the United States. and transport. More traditional public On 31 March 1902 Pearse managed to transportation is also available - various fly his homemade aircraft 91 metres in companies offer public bus services a field near Timaru and coach tours. Ferry services link the • William Hamilton, a Canterbury farmer, three main islands as well as many of the developed the propellerless jetboat in smaller islands. New Zealand’s rail network 1953 based on the principle of water serves much of the country and many jet propulsion. Hamilton went on routes are sight seeing experiences in their to invent the hay-lift, an advanced own right. New Zealand is well served by air compressor, an advanced air air transport, with all cities, major towns conditioner, a machine to smooth ice on and resorts linked to the national network. skating ponds, the water sprinkler and The main domestic airlines are also contributed to the improvements of Air New Zealand and Qantas, with hydropower commuter airlines linking the smaller towns. • Baron Ernest Rutherford, a Road Safety New Zealander, was the first person in New Zealanders drive on the left-hand the world to split the atom (in 1919). side of the road. Before that, Rutherford also succeeded in transmitting and detecting ‘wireless Interesting Facts waves’ a year before Marconi, but • New Zealand was the first country in left this work to research radioactivity the world to have a government ministry and the structure of the atom at for tourism, and Tourism New Zealand Trinity College in Cambridge, England. celebrated its centenary in 2001. The Rutherford was awarded the Nobel Department of Tourist and Health Prize for his work Resorts was established in Rotorua in • There are more golf courses in 1901 to develop tourism New Zealand per capita than any other • New Zealand was the first country to give country in the world (more than 400 women the vote (1893) golf courses for 4 million people)

media.newzealand.com 21 • Auckland reputedly has more boats per • Frying Pan Lake near Rotorua, is head of population than any other city the world’s largest hot water spring in the world reaching a temperature of 200°C at its deepest point • The old Government Building in Wellington is the largest wooden • Waikoropupu Springs, located near structure in the Southern Hemisphere Nelson, are reputedly the clearest (8,200 square metres) freshwater springs in the world with an outflow of approximately 2,160 million • Curio Bay in Southland is one of the litres of water every 24 hours most extensive and least disturbed examples of a petrified forest in the • New Zealand is home to the world’s world (the forest is approximately only flightless parrot, the kakapo, as 180 million years old) well as the only alpine parrot in the world, the kea • The vineyards of Central Otago, New Zealand, are the southern-most vineyards in the world (45° South) • Tongariro National Park was the second national park to be established in the world (Yellowstone National Park in the United States was the first)

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