Overview Tab
Owing to the region’s extreme remoteness, New Zealand was the last significant land mass to be inhabited by indigenous settlers and more recently by European colonisers. New Zealand formerly became a separate crown colony in 1841 with the first parliament meeting in 1854. Parliament officially sat in the newly chosen capital, Wellington in 1865. Today, approximately 76 per cent of the country’s population live on the North Island, with Auckland being the largest city with a population of over one million people. Wellington continues to stand proud as the capital, strategically located in the south of the North Island.
The North Island enjoys a sub-tropical climate. In summer temperatures rise to around 24 degrees during the day. However in winter the mercury only manages to climb to around 15 degrees. In saying this, the weather is particularly unpredictable across the country.
There are many festivals and events held on the North Island including The Food Show Auckland, Waikato Draught Tough Guy & Gal Challenge and the New Zealand International Arts Festival, a biennial multi-arts festival held in Wellington.
Air
Auckland is the major hub for flights from Australia. The following airlines fly to Auckland:
Flights from Sydney to Auckland take around three hours.
Luxury Hotels
Auckland and Wellington boast many of the major five-star international hotel chains including the Hilton in Auckland and the InterContinental in Wellington. Auckland has delightful luxury boutique hotels including the Langham, Takatu Lodge and Seafields. Scattered throughout the North Island are beautiful B&Bs just waiting for your inspection.
To find out more about the range of holiday accommodation available with Travel Associates call 1800 017 849 or enquire online.
Sights to See
Overlooking a beautiful harbour, Auckland is the country’s largest city. After wandering along the water front and through the CBD, check out the New Zealand National Maritime Museum, Sky Tower and the Auckland Regional Botanic Gardens, with 10,000 varieties of plants. To get the heart pumping, base jump 192 metres from the Sky Tower.
Three hours drive south of Auckland, overlooking Lake Rotorua, the township of Rotorua is essentially a service town for what’s arguably some of the North Island’s premiere attractions. This is a geothermal hot spot with dozens of hot springs, sulphur vents and geysers putting on spectacular shows for the entertainment of eager visitors. Everything here is completely natural; there’s something quite primeval about watching mud boil, bubble and blubber.
Adrenaline-central would have to be Taupo and the nearby water systems. It’s all here – bungy-jumping, jet boating, skydiving, scenic helicopter flights and fly fishing. For those who appreciate a more sedate affair, there’s the beautiful Waipahihi Botantical Reserve and the Huka Falls.
Situated majestically in the south of the North Island, Wellington is widely regarded as the cultural capital of the country with world-class theatrical presentations. A tour of the Parliament Buildings is obligatory, as is a ride up the Cable Car for superfluous views of the city. A stroll along the harbour as the sun sets is a therapeutic way to prepare for the evening’s artistic pursuits.
Don't leave home without...
Auckland and Wellington are modern, cosmopolitan cities, so the chances are, if you accidentally forget your favourite moisturiser for example, it’s easily replaced at a local chemist or supermarket. Outside metropolitan NZ, it may be harder to find specialised items, so stock up before travelling into the beautiful New Zealand countryside.
Local Customs
Modern New Zealand culture isn’t that dissimilar from that of Australia’s. Most travellers find Kiwis friendly, welcoming and very hospitable. Maori traditions and culture are entwined into general Kiwi culture.
A highlight of a visit to New Zealand is a traditional Maori dinner feast and performance. This generally includes a powhiri, a welcome ceremony with original instruments, song and dance. The feast includes food cooked beneath the ground in earth ovens. The haka, made internationally-famous through rugby, is also performed at these special evenings.
Things to be careful of…
UV Light
Ultraviolet radiation is particularly intense in New Zealand, with rates of skin cancer being particularly high. Always wear sunscreen and a cap when enjoying outdoor activities.
Weather
Before tramping, always check the weather forecast and proceed accordingly. New Zealand’s weather is prone to sudden fluctuations, so always pack for extreme variations in the conditions.
