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"New Zealand - Godzone!
"New Zealand is well known by Kiwis as Godzone - or God's Own little country, and I can well imagine this to be true. Often overshadowed by neighbouring Australia, there is little doubt that New Zealand possesses quite simply the most breathtaking variety of scenery and some of the most genuinely friendly people you are likely to meet on holiday. In fact, I think of it as how Britain ought to be, but never will be.
The country is not too dissimilar from England in size, but with a much smaller population, leaving plenty of open unspoilt places, and a general feeling of space that England lacks. It is separated into two halves, referred to as North and South Islands.
Basically, North Island contains most of the large cities, including Wellington and Auckland. In contrast South Island contains the better scenery of the two, with snow capped mountains, forests, cliffs, beaches and volcanic pools. There is also a lovely English city of Christchurch.
Of the two I prefer South Island as this really does contain the most wonderful places to visit, and Christchurch is a great city with beaches, night clubs and a real English old-world feel to it.
New Zealand is famous for its outdoor life, and virtually any outdoor sport or activity you care to name will be catered for here, as well as plenty of danger pursuits which are best left to maniac! Fancy rolling down hills in a giant inflatable hamster ball for instance?
The weather is much milder than England, and is generally refreshing. You won't get the blasting heat of Australia, but similarly winters are much milder than here. This makes NZ great for off-peak time holidays. You also get the bonus of a great exchange rate which, togethr with the very reasonable rates for food and accommodation anyway, you really don't need too much to get by. This offsets the obvious expense of the flight.
I would suggest at least a month to 6 week holiday, starting withthe North Island, and finishing with the South Island, possibly using Christchurch or Nelson as a base.
You won't regret visitng NZ - God's own country!
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