New Zealand lies within the so-called "fire belt" and, thus has several volcanoes and a number of hot springs. New Zealand is a green country, full of forests. 80% of New Zealand flora is unique.



For a long time it was nature that attracted tourists to New Zealand. After the shooting of "The Lord of the Rings" a lot of this book fans impressed by the film moved one after the other to this land that has become an embodiment of Middle-Earth.

Those few who haven't seen the film usually enjoy yacht trips, caves journeys, rafting and fishing. It's all year round resort. Climate is always warm and soft.

Most beaches of New Zealand can be called wild - clear water, blue lagoons, white sands - that's how many people imagine paradise. Especially impressive are beaches on Caramandel peninsula, long sand spit of Taranaki peninsula (an international centre of beach volley-ball). There are beaches surrounded by rocks and reefs ideal for diving.

New Zealand is a perfect place for trekking - a thousand of walking routes are waiting for the braves! You can choose jungles and mountains, waterfalls, mountain rivers and beautiful fields.

As for alpine skiing, New Zealand is the most popular resort of that kind in the Southern hemisphere. The season lasts from June to October.

Auckland is the biggest city in New Zealand and is the only city situated on the shores of two seas - Tasmanian and Pacific Ocean. Its population of about 1 million makes one third of the whole country population. The city is divided into 4 parts - Central Auckland, North Shore City, Waitakere City и Manukau.

Auckland is a very cosmopolitan city, 70 % of immigrants stay to live here. For many people Auckland is a window to New Zealand. Here the largest country airport is located. Auckland occupies a very big area, comparing with the relatively small amount of citizens. You could be surprise to learn that your trip to the city centre from suburbs can take about an hour or so. There are no skyscrapers, only small cozy houses, mostly in Victorian style.

There are some cultural attractions to see in Auckland - mostly they are concentrated within 3 districts - Queen Street, Parnell and Posonbly. On the top of the volcanoes lie fortified maori villages. Maori is local population, aborigines. Parnell district boasts the most beautiful Victorian building.

Auckland Museum acquaints with the Polynesian culture and the history of New Zealand.

If you are fond of shopping, don't miss Victoria market on Victoria West Street.