New Zealand guide

Pristine New Zealand is characterized by its isolation. One look at an atlas will tell you that this boot-shaped double island is one of the most remote countries in the world. A decision to go to New Zealand is therefore entirely deliberate, no one is just passing through unless they happen to be en route to the South Pole.

New Zealand has a population of less than four million people, nearly all of whom live in and around Auckland and Wellington. These cities suffer little from pollution, and while some of the country's indigenous forests have been chopped down to make room for New Zealand's countless sheep, it remains one of the greenest and cleanest places in the world. With an acute environment awareness, New Zealand has a proud reputation for championing the green cause.

Nowhere else can quite match New Zealand for the great outdoors. This is the world centre for adventure sports, and zany activities like bungee jumping were invented here. The sporty Kiwis are into exploring their engaging landscape in the most adrenaline – including fashions – tramping, rock climbing, snowboarding, kayaking, and just about any other land. Sea or air activity; as a bonus most are easily accessible and safe for novices.

Abel Tasman National Park, Nelson

The country is split into North and South Islands which, as they are separated from the major continents, are both filled with unusual wildlife and rare species. The more temperate North Island is the more densely populated and home to the largest city, Auckland. This is the main gateway to the country as well as the centre of New Zealand's business, and it outstrips the mellow yet urbane capital Wellington for pace and sights. Instead, Wellington is the political and geographically lynchpin of the country, functioning as a balancing transit point between the two islands. North Island's attractions include its native woodlands, barren volcanoes and spouting geysers, plus the strong Maori culture. The South Island is sleepier and greener, and many visitors find it more distinctive than the North. Gentle hills rolls for kilometres before bursting into the dramatic Southern Alps, with stunning snow-capped peaks and glaciers. Apart from the higher elevations which receive snow all year round, New Zealand's mild weather is comparable to Britain but with the seasons in reverse due to the southerly latitude.

Hotel wise, New Zealand does not shine. It is fair to say that the country has a bed and breakfast culture. These small, mainly family-run establishments are generally clean, friendly and good value but are unlikely to win many international awards.

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