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Few
countries can boast such dramatic and diverse scenery as New Zealand.
From sweeping coastlines to lofty mountains and volcanic islands, it’s
a stunning sight to behold.
But
New Zealand isn’t just about awesome natural beauty – its charming
multicultural cities and world-class extreme sports offer travelers an
unforgettable adventure. And, with its excellent transport links, busy
nightlife and plenty of cheap New
Zealand hostels, it’s a backpacker’s dream.
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| Photo: Courtesy
Tourism New Zealand |
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Northern
Cities – from Auckland to
Wellington
Auckland
is New Zealand’s largest city and makes a great introduction to its
urban culture. Although it’s also the most expensive city, Auckland
hostels and cheap cafés help travelers experience this vibrant
destination on a budget.
The
city is beguilingly cosmopolitan, from its ethnic restaurants to arty
Mt. Eden, and Ponsonby’s retro shops and thriving gay scene to the hip
all-night parties on the waterfront.
Further
south on North Island, Wellington is smaller but no less dynamic and its
compact size ensures a constant buzz. New Zealand’s capital city is
also its cultural heart and most of the country’s museums can be found
here, including the excellent (and free) Te Papa Museum.
Beyond
Urban New Zealand
The
Bay of Plenty lies in the
middle of Auckland and
Wellington and it’s easy to see why it’s one of New Zealand’s most
popular destinations. With its thrilling geysers, sun-warmed beaches and
Maori heritage, along with plentiful budget accommodation, it’s a must
on any backpacker’s itinerary.
Enjoy
natural geothermal spas at Rotorua or head lively Whakatane on the coast
to swim with dolphins and marvel at the nearby White Island. Hidden
ominously in a cloud of constant steam, this marine volcano is still
active and makes for an exhilarating visit.
Adrenalin
around South Island
New
Zealand’s South Island provides even more spectacular landscape and
the chance for excitement. Situated in the lake region, Queenstown is a
playground for adrenalin junkies.
Here,
in the extreme sports capital of world, you can bungy, skydive, zipline,
go canyoning and (from June to September) ski and snowboard to your
heart’s content. With affordable restaurants and hostels clustered
around the lake, Queenstown
also has a nightlife that buzzes all year-round, thanks to the excitable
backpacker crowd.
On
the west coast, Greymouth promises
more sleepless days and nights. The town grew up during the Gold Rush
and today is home to a scattering of hostels and cheap bars and some
stunning Alpine views and Class V rapids.
Heading
to Christchurch
Crossing
New Zealand on the TranzAlpine railway brings you (after four hours of
breathless scenery) to South Island’s most densely populated city, Christchurch.
Named
for a college at Oxford University, it retains the quaint arched bridges
and Victorian houses of its British roots. But, like Auckland
and Wellington, the city
has an open, bohemian vibe which makes it yet another compelling
destination for backpackers.
In addition to affordable
restaurants and Christchurch
hostels providing accommodation to budget travelers, the city is
home to a host of free museums and galleries (many of which nurture
local talent) and a lively café culture.
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- www.portaloceania.com