New Zealand is the youngest country on earth

The last major landmass to be discovered, New Zealand has a fascinating history, reflecting both Maori and European heritage. Amazing Maori historic sites and taonga (treasures), some dating back almost a thousand years, are a contrast to many beautiful colonial buildings. A walk around any New Zealand city shows what a culturally diverse and fascinating country this land of the "long white cloud is".

 New Zealand's beautiful landscape includes vast mountain chains, steaming volcanoes, sweeping coastlines, deeply indented fiords and lush rainforests.

Be amazed by the sheer enormity of the earth’s inner energy. Watch mud boiling in pools and landscapes that hiss with steam. Feel the heat of the earth under your feet and be drenched by the windblown spray from a towering geyser. And then realise this has been going on for thousands of years.

Throughout most of New Zealand, fascinating relics of past volcanic activity are waiting to be explored.

Comparable in size and/or shape to Great Britain, Colorado or Japan, New Zealand has a population of only 4 million - making it one of the world's least crowded countries. It is a haven for those seeking peace, rejuvenation and relaxation as well as a playground for thrill seekers and adventurers. A temperate climate with relatively small seasonal variation makes it an ideal year-round holiday destination.

A country for all seasons

The north of New Zealand is subtropical and the south temperate. The warmest months are December, January and February, and the coldest June, July and August.

 In summer, the average maximum temperature ranges between 20-30ºC and in winter between 10-15ºC. You can check on weather conditions in New Zealand on the NZ met service site.

While these temperatures are the norm, the weather in New Zealand can change unexpectedly as cold fronts or tropical cyclones quickly blow in. Because of this, you should be prepared for sudden changes in weather and temperature, particularly if you’re going hiking or doing other outdoor activities.

Whether you want to leap out of your comfort zone or slide into a blissful state of tranquillity, New Zealand promises to keep life interesting. Check out the possibilities.