New Zealand's largest city is draped over seven volcanoes and wrapped around Waitemata Harbour (meaning "sea of sparkling waters" in Maori). Despite its British feel, it is the world's largest Polynesian city. Shop for Polynesian crafts on Queen Street, the main drag. Or from atop Mt. Eden, overlook the "City of Sails," which will host the America's Cup races in 2000.
...It is no wonder why the region has become so popular, as it is safe, exciting, diverse, and warm.From touring in a four-wheel drive vehicle through the hills to swimming with the dolphins, Tauranga has it all.The hot springs are glorious, and you could spend an entire day and night lounging in the bubbling saltwater pools.They are truly magnificent, as are the restaurants and accommodations in Tauranga...
...exquisite architecture, great museums, and fabulous dining establishments.The accommodations and amenities in Wellington are superb, and during the summer there are many hot beach spots...
New Zealand is such a diverse and dynamic country that you must visit a variety of regions to truly get a taste of the wonder that awaits.Christchurch is a glorious location, full of great restaurants, beautiful beaches, and outstanding museums.The gardens and cultural centers are fantastic, and the greater Christchurch area stretches from the Southern Alps all the way to the Pacific Ocean.The wide array of outdoor activities is one of the best features of Christchurch, and from kayaking to golf, and from sailing to mountain biking, The Mainland has it all.
Dunedin is a little sliver of Scotland, set on the tropical shores of New Zealand's South Island. Founded by Scottish emigrants in 1848, Dunedin (the Gaelic name for Edinburgh) has fine Victorian and Edwardian architecture, including the Olveston stately home and majestic Larnach Castle--as well as New Zealand's only scotch distillery and kilt shop!
Located on the island of Tasmania and Australia's second-oldest city, Hobart is famous for its Georgian buildings, picturesque harbor, and fine galleries and gardens. Nearby are the ghostly ruins of Port Arthur, the infamous penal colony, with its Isle of the Dead cemetery. Or, visit one of the perfectly preserved colonial villages nearby.
Australia's "Garden City" rejoices in its greenery, from the Fitzroy Gardens to the magnificent Royal Botanical Gardens. Hiding behind the sky-scrapers along the Yarra River are the graceful 19th-century mansions of the city's Gold Rush years. Sample one of the sixty different international cuisines, which make Melbourne the food capital of Australia.
Sydney is Australia''s showcase: the oldest settlement, the largest and most thriving city, the cultural melting pot. It curves around idyllic Port Jackson, where sandstone cliffs and bright islands complement the Opera House and Harbor Bridge. Wander the cobbled colonial streets of the historic Rocks quarter, or tour the mansions of Watson''s Bay.