TRAVEL GUIDE: NEW ZEALAND

New Zealand was one of the world’s last places to be settled by humans. Even today, it has managed to preserve much of its natural environment, with 30 percent of New Zealand's land composed of National Parks, reserves and special heritage. New Zealand is a travel destination full of contrasts, from its stunning landscapes—you find alpine glaciers, gorgeous beaches, rolling green hills and wine country escapes—to its incredible culture, a mélange of European, Maori, Pacific and Asian influences.


TOP 10 ROMANTIC HOTELS
Wharekauhau
Set in secluded beauty on the southern tip of New Zealand’s North Island, this working sheep station overlooks the spectacular Palliser Bay. Wharekauhau invites romantic renewal in its self-contained cottages—complete with a four-poster bed and full bar—that are scattered throughout the estate.

Wharekauhau

Milford Sound
TOP 10 ROMANTIC DESTINATIONS
Milford Sound
This remote region, with its sheer rock faces and waters teeming with wildlife, has been described as the Eighth Wonder of the World. Adventurous lovers can attempt “the most beautiful walk in the world,” a three-and-a-half-day trek from Te Anu that envelops you in the area’s natural grandeur.

TOP 10 HEALTH RETREATS
Ora Ora Eco Spa Resort
If you want to get healthy and still remain environmentally friendly, then go Green at Ora Ora Eco Spa Resort in the Kerikeri Bay of Islands. Here you get to feel great about yourself and reduce your carbon footprint knowing you’re eating organic gourmet food, drinking filtered rainwater and recycling.

Ora Ora Eco Spa Resort

Auckland Harbo

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Business Travel Guide: Auckland

Business travelers look out! Here's where to stay, where to dine and where to relax after hours in New Zealand's "City of Sails."

RELAX...
Top Spas in New Zealand
New Zealand offers beautiful spas featuring thermal reserves and mineral pools in gorgeous naturals settings such as Polynesian Spa overlooking Sulphur Bay on Lake Rotorua.

 See our guide to the Top Spas in the World

The Spa at Kauri Cliffs

Eichardt’s Private Hotel, Queenstown

TOP HOTELS
Top Boutique Hotel: Huka Lodge
Top Ski Resort: Eichardt’s Private Hotel
Top Wine Country Inn: Old St. Mary's Convent

If you're seeking the finest and most distinctive lodgings around the world, check out more of the world's best hotels!

For more information, visit the Official Tourism New Zealand Site at www.newzealand.com.

>> Guides for other parts of the world

(Updated: 02/11/08 AK)

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