The Joys Of A New Zealand Luxury Holiday

New Zealand is truly a country with the most spectacular landscapesalmost everywhere you look, making it popular for film-makers - theLord of the Rings trilogy was filmed here as was the hit movie Narnia:The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe and its sequel, The Chronicles ofNarnia: Prince Caspian. From dense forests to snow-capped mountains,along with an abundance of wildlife, and lakes galore, there is plentyfor you to see and do on your luxury New Zealand holiday.

This is a country that is drenched in culture and history, with a unique blend of Maori, European and Pacific influences making up the friendly warmth that New Zealanders are known for. Wherever you travel in New Zealand, on both the north and south islands, you're sure to have ample opportunity to see some of the traditional Maori lifestyle. The Maori New Year is centred around the time when a particular cluster of stars called the Matariki appears over New Zealand's Aotearoa, bringing on a huge celebration throughout each June.

No matter what part of New Zealand you are visiting, there's sure to be celebrations at this time of year, including traditional dancing, food, craft-making and generally renewing relationships with family and friends.

New Zealand luxury cruises are another way to see this amazing country. There are many long, breath-taking strips of coastline for visitors to discover, either on a large cruise liner or by chartering a smaller, more personal yacht or motor boat. Cruising in the World Heritage listed Fiordland is simply amazing. The rocky landscapes around Dusky, Milford and Doubtful Sounds are almost vertical and dwarf even the largest of cruise ships, with a wealth of cascading waterfalls adding to the already incredible scenery. The Bay of Islands has more than 144 islands and bays for you to explore.

As well as the stunning coastline, New Zealand offers many picturesque harbours, fiords and islands for you to explore. If you enjoy a bit of adventure, there are several places where you can experience the exhilaration of white-water rafting on your New Zealand luxury holiday.

Christchurch is known for its formal parks and gardens, along with its TranzAlpine train trip. Cited as one of the top 6 scenic rail journeys in the world, this is an ideal way to explore Arthur's Pass. Meanwhile Wellington, on the country's north island, is more creative; better known for its arts, culture and heritage.

Food lovers will appreciate the fine selection of fresh cuisine throughout New Zealand, with their unique blend of European, Asian and Polynesian influences. Eating in New Zealand is traditionally more relaxed, with a focus on enjoying the company and experience in a laid-back manner. If you enjoy a fine wine, visit the Hawkes Bay wine region where there are several vineyards for you to sample the local fare. You will also find a lot of Art Deco architecture around this region.

Rotorua offers visitors a selection of beautiful beaches, boutique shopping with nearby natural hot springs for total relaxation. This area also boasts some amazing volcanic landscapes that are definitely worth visiting. Waimangu Volcanic Valley is another natural phenomena worth experiencing. This Valley was formed after the 1886 eruption of Tarawera, with seven massive craters forming. One of these, Inferno Crater, is the largest geyser-like phenomenon in the world, with its contents flowing over below, into the Frying Pan Stream, every few weeks.

Many of New Zealand's cities, including Auckland, have a selection of five star resorts and lavish retreats where you can relax in style. After a day of exploration and discovery you can indulge in some well-deserved pampering before deciding how to enjoy your evening.

For absolute opulence, New Zealand's north island offers Rahimoana Eagles Nest. This exquisite accommodation boasts a personal chef and personal trainer, along with use of a Porsche Cayenne Turbo!

For luxury New Zealand travel to the snow-fields, Terrace Downs, near Christchurch, is the perfect place to stay. Here you can combine the ski slopes with a fantastic golf course, fishing, bushwalking and delectable food and wine. If you're keen on skiing around Queenstown, Peppers Beacon, on the shores of Lake Wakatipu, is ideal.

No matter what time of year you visit, you are sure to enjoy your luxury vacation in New Zealand.

Article Tags: Zealand Luxury