Despite its size New Zealand is one of the most pristine and naturally diverse countries on earth. Unlike its mighty neighbour the highlights come thick and fast. Arriving in early June I had five weeks at my disposal. And having once experienced the masochistic concept of 'shoestringing', a comfortable budget was important (£20-25 per day).
During my visit I concentrated mainly on the South Island, interrupted by a 10-day foray northwards to tackle the enormous trout of Lake Taupo. I found transportation, mainly private minibus, to be economical, reliable and simple to arrange. However for enhanced viewing possibilities at least one train journey is recommended. As my budget didn't stretch to many single rooms the dorm accommodation again was affordable and comfortable - my free BBH (Budget Backpacker Hostels) guide became quite dog-eared.
Queenstown, famed for its adrenaline-charged 'pastimes', enjoys more than its fair share of publicity. That said, Mother Nature has gifted New Zealand with her own breathtaking attractions to rival the highest of bungee jumps. Hiking on the glaciers Fox and Franz Josef proved strenuous and at times challenging, yet an exhilarating experience. Though proper clothing and expert guiding ensured safety at all times, hobnail boots will never look sexy.
A trip to the haunting Doubtful and Milford Sounds (Fiordland) was also very special, inclement weather conditions adding to the eerieness of the place. An organised boat trip around the Otago Peninsula rewarded me with glimpses of unfeasibly large and fluffy albatross chicks, ever-playful seals and penguins and a fascinating insight into the history of the area.
Now although 'mixing it' with the leviathans of Taupo took some beating, the highlight of the trip was undoubtedly encountering the immense 40 tonne sperm whales of Kaikoura. Despite the common use and often misuse of the adjective the sight of those disappearing giant flukes at such close quarters is quite simply awesome. As wildlife and wilderness invariably dictate my travelling, New Zealand's blend of rugged natural beauty and stunning animal spectacle made this one of the best trips to date. In all a sense of adventure and a little energy are the only requirements. With minimal planning New Zealand will not disappoint.
After considerable 'coffee-table' inspirational research (see New Zealand Landscapes), I found the Lonely Planet Guide to New Zealand to be a good all-round travelling choice. Coupled with the now out-of-print Collins - New Zealand 1:2,000,000 folded map it was difficult to go wrong (try GiziMap of New Zealand now instead). Other excellent maps to travel around the country are: New Zealand Minimaps at 1:1,500,000 and ITMB map of New Zealand 1:1,000,000.
Author: Chris Ray
Date: 1 September 2002
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