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Ecotourism New Zealand:
100% Pure Green Fun
Ecotourism New Zealand is alive and as rich with offerings today as it was almost 1,000 years ago when Polynesian explorers first paddled there in canoes and settled this Pacific island nation. Before Christopher Columbus set sail in his well-provisioned ships looking for treasure and land beyond what was assumed to be the end of the ocean, the Maori, the indigneous New Zealanders, paddled over from Hawaiki (islands somewhere in the south Pacific) and began what is a very rich and still vibrant culture.
Through the years, Europeans, Scottish, Croatians (or Dalmatians), Chinese, Dutch and other Pacific Islanders migrated to New Zealand as whalers, to mine for gold, to work in the gumfields, to farm and to work in the vineyards. The British colonized New Zealand in the 19th century but midway through the 20th century, New Zealanders began to develop ties with other countries and to assert their own unique identity. There is talk of it becoming its own republic.
New Zealanders, or Kiwis, are a diverse culture, blending ancestries from varying origins. But they all seem to share an inventive, innovative, friendly, and self-reliant attitude and a love for the outdoors lifestyle. Ecotravel to New Zealand may find you not wanting to leave.
Islands and Mountains and Lakes...Oh My!
Ecotourism New Zealand can leave you breathless not only from the beauty but from the abundance of activities, which can challenge even the most hearty to see and do them all.
With so much coastline, sailing and kayaking and canoeing and whale watching are all fantastic ways to immerse yourself in the Kiwi water world. When you want a little vertical action, head to the mountains and volcanoes--yes, volcanoes...they are on the Pacific Ring of Fire. Treks and trails through forests, along rivers and around crater lakes are plentiful and take you through stunning vistas. You will definitely want to bring your camera. More than one-third of the land in New Zealand is dedicated to parks, reserves, and gardens, so you can enjoy their conservationist bent to the fullest. And don't forget the sheep farms if you want to snuggle with these wooly wonders or gain hands-on education.
Know Before You Go
• New Zealand's currency is the New Zealand dollar.
• ATMs are widely available and credit cards are accepted in most places.
• Banks are open weekdays 9:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.
• Tipping is not obligatory but when given good service, it is appreciated.
• English is the everyday language and is spoken almost everywhere... Maori is also an official language.
• Crime is relatively low in New Zealand, but still practice
mindful safety behaviors.
• There are few endemic diseases, and the health care system is quite good.
• There are no snakes or dangerous animals in New Zealand. But do bring insect repellant to keep sand flies away if visiting the fjords.
• Wear sunblock, as the rays are particularly strong here.
• Do not drink water from the lakes, rivers or ponds without treating it to avoid Giardia, a water-borne parasite that can cause diarrhea.
• The weather can vary quickly, so always bring layers, including a waterproof shell.
• ENJOY!
Interested in Ecotourism New Zealand? Please check Travel Photo Tips to preserve your trip fabulously.
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