New Zealand is, without question, one of the most beautiful countries to be found on the planet. From the North Island's Bay of Islands to the Fjord lands of the South Island every turn in the road offers the visitor another wonderful scenic vista.

There are many extremes of landscape to experience from barren mountain landscapes to lush green meadows, from the magnificent pine forests of the North island, to the hot springs of Rotorua, from beautiful wide flowing rivers and stunning lakes to the lovingly tendered vine yards that are to be found throughout the country.  New Zealand is truly a magical peaceful, experience which lacks nothing, except possibly people although many would say that's what makes the country so special.  For once you are away from the main cities people become a very scarce commodity, however this cannot be said for the sheep, cattle and deer of which there are millions!

The first recorded visit to New Zealand by a European was by the Dutch explorer Abel Tasman in 1642, who named the islands.  He was followed 127 years later by Capt. Cook.  European settlers did not arrive in any numbers until the early, mid 1800's when New Zealand was administrated from Australia from where many of them came.

Sadly very little of the Maori history and culture has been preserved so there is not a great deal for the visitor to experience of the islands' early history, but happily there is a growing revival of Maori culture, which is adding to the visitors unique experience.  The European settlers history is limited to the early trading and whaling activities that took place in the North Island's Bay of Islands region in the late 1700's and early 1800's and the gold mining that happened around Otago in the South Island in the mid late 1800's

A visit to New Zealand will be a truly memorable experience one which we believe you will wish to repeat, as one visit is not enough.

How to experience New Zealand:

Our recommendation is to take a self-drive car and go as you please.  Driving in New Zealand is very easy, once away from the main citiies you see very little traffic, the roads are very well maintained, although possibly a little narrow which can at times be frustrating.

You can either pre plan your itinerary and book all the accommodation in advance.  Or you can pre plan and reserve a portion of your itinerary then leave the rest to booking as you go.

All our clients electing to take this option will receive a copy of the New Zealand Bed & Breakfast book, which contains the locations of all the quality Bed and Breakfast properties to be found in New Zealand, of which there are many.

Another popular option is to take a Camper Van which gives you total independence, and New Zealand is an ideal location for camper holidays.  There are many camping sites to park overnight and also many lay-bys that can be used on the open road and as New Zealand is a very safe country this is a viable option.  Campers and their occupants are very welcome everywhere they go in New Zealand.

The Campers are very well equipped and give you all the comforts of home.  However, we would always recommend that you plan to stay a few nights in an hotel or guest house for as good as the beds are in the campers they can get a little cramped, and it's nice to have a leisurely soak in a bath occasionally.