New Zealand is a beautiful island nation split into two parts, northern and southern. The southern section is largely mountainous, with a long range of snow topped peaks called the Southern Alps being its most prominent geographical feature. The northern section has a much more physically subdued terrain with much fewer, less prominent mountains, though it is home to a number of volcanoes. Indeed, the highest peak on the northern island is itself a cone type volcano, which to this day remains active. The landscape is quite varied compared to most countries, and in addition to the mountainous and volcanic areas there are tracts of rolling plains and farmland, high plateau, rocky, ocean spray showered coastline and soft, sandy beaches with mild temperatures year round. Additionally, New Zealand’s position on the edge of the Pacific Ring of Fire makes it not just only prone to volcanic activity in certain areas, but also underground geothermal activity and features such as geysers and hot springs. Many of these hot springs have become attractions to locals and tourists alike, becoming known as places of relaxation with therapeutic potential, such as the popular Hanmer Springs and less traveled but no less enjoyable Maruia Springs, situated along the Maruia River. Those looking to unwind and relax after intense adventure travel should keep these spots high on their list.
Wildlife on both the two divisions of the island country is numerous and varied, with birds comprising a large percentage. New Zealand’s distance from other land masses has resulted in quite specific and unique animal inhabitants. The forested lands of the nation are prime locations for bird watchers looking to spot or capture on film fauna seen nowhere else. One notable example of such a species is the flightless kiwi, a rare and endangered animal considered by many to be a national treasure. In fact, it is the official symbol of New Zealand, as it is so revered!
The more prominent Southern Alps, situated on the southern island are very well suited for adventure tours. The range even has a number of huge glaciers which slowly grind their way across the landscape. The snowy and icy environments of these mountain tops rise in stark contrast to the lush, green plains below offering welcoming potential for challenging expedition for those with the passion to explore them. The lower elevations, and particularly the ranges on the northern island offer a somewhat milder challenge for the traveler’s expeditions, lending themselves more appropriately to activities such as trekking on foot or horseback, mountain biking, rappelling and rock climbing. Hundreds of trails are utilized for adventure tours around the country, and there are many locations worth venturing up or down.
While this island nation is home to multiple international shipping ports, much of its produce is produced domestically on the fertile lands located more towards the coastline. Of course, with its expansive coastline come many locations suitable for fishing, and there is no shortage of fresh seafood and seafood restaurants for those travelers with a taste for the sea. Along with the island experience come all of the usual sea faring activities, and among the most popular are sailing, yachting, powerboating, parasailing, skiing, and scuba diving.
A mountaineering expedition up into the Alps then a kayaking expedition back down, throw in some horses and a trip to the coast for a cruise on a yacht and you have an example of a New Zealand adventure tour from S2Si.
When the expedition is over, after flying half way round the world, why not have you own adventure by hiring a camper van or going off for a day scuba diving. New Zealand is also home to major sporting events so plan ahead to catch the best of them.
With our team of highly qualified expedition staff let us put together a bespoke itinerary for you that involves all apsects the countries adventure activities.
Please see our main site for more information on an Expedition or Adventure Travel in New Zealand.
