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Experience New Zealand& the South PacificHalf way round the globe yet closely connected to the UK, a trip to this part of the world isincredibly rewarding. With sublime scenery, vibrant cities, fine food and Maori culture,New Zealand has a wealth of experiences to enjoy. The exotic South Pacific islands operate ata slower pace and offer all the white tropical beaches, crystal clear lagoons and swaying coconutpalms you could wish for. Situated just a short distance from New Zealand they are perfect foran extended trip or as a stop en route.Walking the Routeburn Track, New ZealandDiving in the South PacificFijian girl, South PacificLandscapesFor the majority of visitors, it is New Zealand’smajestic scenery that is the greatest draw. Fromsnow-capped peaks to rumbling volcanoes,pristine beaches, glacial lakes, tranquil fiords andlush forests, the landscapes are incredibly diverseand almost otherworldly in their beauty. Both theNorth and South islands share many commonfeatures but they are also wonderfully different.The North Island is fertile and volcanic, cloaked indense native forest and edged with spectacularcoastlines. The South Island is less populated andmore extreme, with the jagged spine of theSouthern Alps forming a natural barrier from therolling Canterbury Plains, while further south themountains are peppered with sparkling alpinelakes. The island nations of the South Pacific offerarchetypal scenes of palm-fringed beaches andtropical lagoons, but some islands also offerdramatic mountain peaks and rolling fields ofsugar cane.CultureThe countries in this region all have dynamiccultures that are made up of a unique combinationof traditional heritage, colonial history andgeographic isolation. New Zealanders are proudof their Maori roots, and the culture and languageof the indigenous people is part of the fabric ofmodern society. The arrival of Europeans resultedin a large decline in the Maori population andalthough today Maori constitute less than 10% ofthe overall population, their culture is still verymuch alive. In the small, remote South Pacificislands, strong Polynesian and Melanesian culturalvalues survive, making them both a glorious placeto relax and a fascinating one to explore.Modern New ZealandNew Zealand is a vibrant and prosperous countrywith a strong set of values. Members of itsparliament truly represent the diversity of itspopulation and aim to tackle global issues head on.Acutely aware of the pristine habitats theypossess, New Zealanders are firmly committed tosustainable development and green living. Gettingout into the bush or mountains and enjoyingoutdoor activities is simply a way of life here, andwith such a wealth of fabulous places to explore itis hardly surprising. New Zealand’s cities offer anexciting contrast to the scenic wilderness.Composed of a delightful mix of colonial heritagebuildings and gleaming modern architecture,they also offer fine dining, superb museums,international arts, shopping and galleries, allaccessible via excellent local transportation.ActivitiesThe rugged landscape of New Zealand begs tobe explored on foot, by bike, by boat or by air.Pioneering individuals have dreamed up an arrayof adrenaline-pumping extreme sports, but youdon’t have to throw yourself off a suspendedplatform into a steep-sided gorge to appreciatethe country’s superb scenery. Drift along anuntouched coastline in a sea kayak, take to the airon a helicopter flight, skim shallow braided riversin a jet boat or cycle along an historic railwayroute; whatever you choose you will get to seeNew Zealand from a different angle. Boat tripsabound, and even those who find water traveluncomfortable will be delighted by the tranquilwaters of Fiordland or some of the country’sbeautiful lakes. You will also find world-class golfcourses and excellent fishing. The South Pacific bycomparison has palm-fringed beaches and coralatolls teeming with iridescent marine life that makefor unsurpassed swimming, snorkelling and diving.4