About
New Zealand is an island nation in Oceania, made up of two main islands, the North Island and the South Island, along with a number of smaller islands. It is also known by its Māori name, Aotearoa, which you will hear and see often across the country.
The country is known for its natural beauty. The landscapes described for visitors include fjords, mountains and pristine beaches, spread across both islands. Whether you come for coastline, high country or a mix of the two, the variety of scenery is a large part of what draws people here.
What a visit offers
- Scenery: fjords, mountains and clean beaches, reachable from many parts of both islands.
- Adventure tourism: the country is widely associated with outdoor activities, so it suits travellers who want to be active.
- Māori culture: Māori culture is part of the everyday identity of the country, and visitors can learn about it alongside the landscapes.
Planning your trip
Because the two islands differ so much in character, it helps to decide early which one, or which parts of each, you want to see. A trip that moves between the North and South Islands gives you a fuller sense of the country's range. Each region has its own towns and routes, so the surrounding area is worth exploring as much as the headline sights.
