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New Zealand or ‘Kiwiland’ as it is popularly known as by its visitors is a striking island country. New Zealand is roughly divided into two parts, North Island and South Island. The unique attractions like geysers, ravishing lakes, rivers and beautiful mountains makes New Zealand is a country worth visiting for a great holiday. Auckland is in the North of the country, it has a unique urban environment. The city is so located that everyone is within half an hour distance from beautiful beaches, hiking trails and holiday islands. Auckland has basically a Polynesian culture with great food, wine and shopping available for everyone. A day trip to the island like Waiheke Island Kawau Island, Rangitoto Island, and Tiritiri Matangi is possible from Auckland. The Sky tower at its 328 meters height offers three observation levels and wine tasting tours are some of top attractions in Auckland.
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Waiheke Island has a picturesque landscape and has farmlands, forests, beaches, vineyards and olive groves. One can visit vineyards and art studios, or swim at Onetangi or Palm Beach and lunch at an Oneroa café on Waiheke Island. Many events are held here like in January there is the Open Tennis Championships, the Auckland Anniversary Day Regatta commemorating the arrival of Captain Hobson in New Zealand. In March there is the Pasifika Festival which celebrates the Polynesian culture through music and performances at Western Springs. In November you can witness the Ellerslie Flower Show at the Botanic Gardens and in December the Auckland Cup is held at Ellerslie Race Course.
Wellington is the capital city and is in the north Island; one can witness its rich culture and heritage and also visit popular tourist sites like the Brooklyn Windmill, Parliament buildings, Elmscourt, Mount Victoria, Frank Kitts Park, Karori Wildlife Sanctuary, Karori Cemetery, National Library, Wineries and Vineyards. Matiu/Somes Island is in the middle of Wellington’s harbor, once it was a prisoners of war camp and Quarantine station. One can watch plant and bird life and at the same time experience the Island’s history once on the island. Events like Wellington Cup Week in January features racing, live music, fashion, in February New Zealand’s International Arts Festival and New Zealand Festival which is held biennially are held here.
Christchurch in the south Island has a unique blend of historic charm and exciting city life, it is bordered by river Avon. Christchurch is also known as Garden City and has a great Botanic Garden for visitors to enjoy, this Botanic Garden has over 30 hectares of walking tracks, sweeping lawns, conservatories, majestic trees, feature gardens and woodland areas. Christchurch is also famous for its ballooning from the centre of the city. One can enjoy the view of sun rising out of ocean towards snow capped mountains when ballooning. Another experience to enjoy is a trip in a custom built beautifully upholstered punt as your boatman guides you past the sights of the central city. Also one can be part of different events in Christchurch like in February there is the Christchurch Festival of Flowers - an international floral celebration and the August Christchurch International Jazz Festival - a celebration of jazz, wine and food featuring international and local talent.
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