New Zealand is a popular tourist destination for those who seek adventure or want to escape everyday life. New Zealand is famous for its national rugby team, incredible scenery, and the Maori culture. The country is made up of two main islands, and a few smaller ones. Separating the North Island and South Island is the Cook Strait which connects the Tasman Sea with the South Pacific Ocean.

There are many cities in New Zealand, the largest city being Auckland with Wellington as the country’s capital. Auckland is a harbourside city located in the north of New Zealand’s North Island. This busy city is home to the famous Sky Tower viewpoint, where you can view the city from above, Auckland War Memorial Museum, home to Maori artefacts, and Auckland Zoo, which houses exotic and rare animals.

Wellington, the capital, is filled with history, culture, and beautiful landscapes. This city is in the south of the North Island, just along the Cook Strait. Here you can take the historic red Wellington cable car up to the hills of Kelburn, wander the Wellington Botanic Gardens, and explore Cuba Street, which is full of quirky cafes, shops, and food markets..

Rotorua is the perfect city for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life! This lakeside city is home to geothermal and volcanic attractions, including bubbling mud pools, hot springs, and volcanic crater lakes, such as Lake Rotorua. So, make sure to visit Rotorua when on a trip to New Zealand, if you want to emerge yourself in natural beauty, and unwind.

• Languages spoken include English and Māori.
• The official currency used is the New Zealand Dollar ($).
• Major airports include Auckland Airport (AKL), Christchurch Airport (CHC), Wellington Airport (WLG), and Queenstown Airport (ZQN).
• Prepare for a very strict customs check at the airport. People can be fined for bringing some food, dirty shoes, and dirty camping gear into the country.
• New Zealand’s summer months are December, January, and February.
• Winter months are June, July, and August.
• In New Zealand’s North Island, summer months average at daily highs of 23°C/73°F and lows of 17°C/63°F. In winter months there are average daily highs of 15°C/59°F and lows of 8°C/46°F.
• In New Zealand’s South Island, summer months average at daily highs of 22°C/72°F and lows of 12°C/54°F. In winter months there are average daily highs of 11°C/52°F and lows of 2°C/36°F.
• Tipping is not customary and not required in New Zealand.
• Pack for all types of weather and bring good walking shoes.
• New Zealand drives on the left side of the road.
• Beware of sandflies. Protect yourself from getting bitten by applying baby oil on exposed areas, or by using bug spray.
• The drinking age is 18 years old. When purchasing alcohol, it may be required to show ID if you look under the age of 40. Out-of-country driver’s licences do not count as ID.
• Power plugs are of type I. Voltage is 230 V and frequency is 50 Hz.

The Wanaka Tree

The Wanaka Tree is a 100-year old willow tree that is semi-submerged in the water of Wanaka Lake.

This is one of the most photographed trees in New Zealand, and there is no doubt as to why! This beautiful willow tree is surrounded by mountainous areas and a clear lake that reflects the scenery around.

Known as the “lone tree of Lake Wanaka”, it symbolises hope and endurance. The walk along the lake to get to this tree is beautiful and is a perfect place to lay out a rug and have a picnic!

To avoid crowds, visit the Wanaka Tree for sunrise, as fewer people will be there, making the experience more enjoyable.

Address: Glendhu Bay, Wanaka, 9305, New Zealand

Coordinates: -44.6988, 169.1181