New Zealand has been increasing in popularity as a tourist destination for many years now, with visitors encouraged through the striking beauty of the landscapes, the friendly, open, forward-thinking people and the pursuit of extreme sports. Though to be honest, the last one is only for the daring out there - those looking for a sedate escape to the country may want to avoid the bungee ropes/whitewater rafts and the like! The split of the islands makes for no problems whatsoever with regular connections between the two available, though it's still likely that it will take a long time for everything the country has to offer to be taken in by a visitor - it's sure to be an enjoyable long time, mind.

Wellington is a usual stop off point for many visitors to New Zealand, and though it isn't actually the most popular touristic region of the country there is certainly more than enough in the capital to keep anyone occupied for a visit of any length. Sitting on the southern tip of the north island, the second largest city in the country offers a pleasant mixture of cafe culture and a cosmopolitan arts scene, no doubt helped in recent years by the production of the Lord of the Rings trilogy, carried out in the city. Those visiting Wellington have a number of attractions available to them, including the Old Government Building (the second largest wooden building in the world), the Botanic Gardens and Mount Victoria - both of which offer incredible views of the city and surrounding areas.

Those visiting New Zealand for the pursuit of extreme sports are sure to take in the spiritual home of such activities (in New Zealand at least), making their way to Queenstown. The city is covered with opportunities to take part in extreme sports ranging from the mildly extreme to the frankly ridiculous (probably only for those with bona-fide death wishes), and safe, organised expeditions are available throughout the city - meaning there is no excuse to ignore safety in any way, shape or form. Aside from the 'extreme' activities that draw many to the city, Queenstown has many other factors that attract thousands of tourists each year, from the magnificent beauty of Lake Wakatipu, through the many walking routes and on to the fantastic selection of local wines. You certainly don't have to be throwing yourself off a cliff with a small bit of canvas attached to your back to have fun in Queenstown, put it that way!

The largest city in New Zealand, Auckland, is another huge attraction for visitors, offering - amongst many, many other factors - one of the most beautiful cities in the world. Elsewhere in the country are attractions such as the Catlins Coast, Christchurch Art Gallery, a number of national parks, the art deco town of Napier, White Island and many, many other attractions, activities and items of interest for anyone passing through. Factor in the fine cuisine (a Maori earth oven, or hangi, simply has to be experienced), good selection of wines and friendly people and New Zealand is a country everyone should look to visit at some point in their lives.