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TRAVEL TO NEW ZEALAND: Research your vacation travel plans with us!
Facts About New Zealand
New Zealand, island nation in the South Pacific Ocean, located south of the equator in the Southern Hemisphere, and marking the eastern boundary of the Tasman Sea, a portion of the Pacific Ocean that separates New Zealand and the nearest large landmass, Australia, by a distance of about 1,600 km (1,000 mi). New Zealand includes two large islands that constitute most of its landmass, as well as numerous small islands.
New Zealand is known for its scenic landscapes of snowcapped mountains and rolling green pastures. Its image as a farming outpost stems from the traditional importance of agriculture to the economy as well as the low population density in most areas. However, the majority of New Zealanders live in urban areas, and many now earn a living in service industries such as tourism. The capital of New Zealand is Wellington. The largest and most cosmopolitan city is Auckland.
New Zealand's location in the Southern Hemisphere, or south of the equator, means that its seasons are opposite to those in the Northern Hemisphere. The warmest months of summer are January and February and the coldest months of winter are June and July. New Zealand is located in the Southern Temperate Zone, south of the tropics. It has a mild climate with four seasons. Inland areas have cooler winters and warmer summers than coastal areas, where the moderating influence of the ocean creates a more temperate climate.
Places to go in New Zealand:
- Bay of Islands: The finest Maritime Park in New Zealand with 144 islands, secluded bays, an abundance of marine life and scenery that is nothing short of spectacular.
- Auckland: Auckland is popularly known as the "City of Sails" and is home to more than one million people making it the largest city in New Zealand.
- Mount Cook: Mount Cook, or Aoraki the Cloud Piercer, is New Zealand's highest mountain (3,754m). Situated in the heart of the Southern Alps, Mount Cook is a national icon.
- Queenstown: Set against a backdrop of mountains and nestled on the shores of Lake Wakatipu, Queenstown is a picturesque alpine paradise. Recognised as the adventure capital of New Zealand.
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