Blog July 2014

New Zealand packs a lot in for such a small country. Our mountains, rivers, lakes, glaciers and beaches are all connected by spectacularly scenic roads that make journeying between destinations a real joy. Magnificent alpine scenery, jewel-coloured lakes, endless golden coastline and lush, verdant rainforests are some of the things you’re likely to see on the road. In New Zealand, the journey is just as beautiful as the destination.

Guides play a huge part in a small group tour of New Zealand. Their attention to detail, knowledge, sense of humour and leadership can make a good holiday a great one. At MoaTrek, all of our guides are experts in their fields; and many of our clients tell us that their guide had a huge impact on how much they enjoyed their tour with us. But what makes a great guide? Read on to find out.

An island nation, New Zealand’s environment is incredibly diverse for its small size. Both the North and the South Islands are dramatically different in terms of environment, scenic highlights and culture. Below, we’ve put together a bit of a guide to what the North Island is all about – it will help you to get a feel for New Zealand and the parts of the country you might like to visit.

The sky scraping peaks, hanging valleys and rainforest-clad slopes of Fiordland’s Milford Sound make it one of New Zealand’s ‘must see’ destinations for visitors. But what’s the best way to truly experience this natural wonderland? With over 30 years’ experience in showing visitors the best New Zealand has to offer on our small group tours, we know a fair few things about Milford Sound, including the best ways to experience this special place.

Lying in the south-west Pacific, New Zealand is similar in size to Great Britain or Japan and is made up of the North and South Islands. Gloriously uncrowded with a population of only 4 million people, Aotearoa – as we’re also known – is a land of extreme diversity. From pristine, untouched beaches to lush rainforests, snow-capped mountains and glacier-fed lakes, New Zealand packs a lot in for such a small country.

Spring in New Zealand is characterised by crisp, sunny days, beautiful flowers in bloom and delicious ripening fruit. For lovers of nature, gardens and wildlife, Spring can be the optimal time to take a New Zealand tour.