New Zealand

The well-loved author Douglas Adams summed New Zealand up beautifully in his famous novel ‘Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy when he stated that ‘one’s first impulse, standing on a cliff surveying it all, is simply to burst into spontaneous applause.’ A small but mighty country of many identities, New Zealand effortlessly blends Maori tradition with a modern, cosmopolitan style. Vibrant cities, glacial lakes, mountains, forests, beaches and an incredible wealth of wildlife – it’s every photographer’s dream. 

A magnet for adventure lovers and often considered the adventure capital of the world, New Zealand’s valleys, waterfalls and spectacular landscapes create a scenic backdrop for a range of outdoor activities. The North Island offers sailing, beaches and Maori culture whilst the South Island attracts bikers, hikers, rafters and skiers. And the food is delicious -  driven by local ingredients and seasonal variations, it’s difficult not to be impressed.  Paired with fantastic world-class wines, you can see why New Zealanders take great pride in their environment.

Accommodation ranges from cosy to grandiose private houses, superb high-country stations, stand-alone properties and tucked away cabins with all the comforts of a top-end hotel, New Zealand has it all. A country as diverse as it is glorious, with residents as open-minded and relaxed as you would expect, New Zealand is imbued with a spirit of welcome.

 When to go 

The best time to visit New Zealand is during the summer months of December to March, which bring long, bright and sunny days and temperatures of 16°C to 24°C. They’re ideal for visiting the lovely beaches or enjoying the many outdoor activities available, such as hiking and mountain biking.

However, the country’s rugged beauty and varied landscapes make it a spectacular destination to visit at any time of year. Just be prepared for a fair sprinkling of rain whenever you decide to visit.

June through to September is likely to bring snow to the South Island, as well as some of the North Island’s more mountainous areas, attracting skiers from far and wide. The spring and autumn months herald milder weather and fewer visitors, but are still very pleasant times to visit, with temperatures in the mid-teens.