New Zealand

New Zealand is a beautiful island nation in the southwestern Pacific seas, known for its rich Maori culture, remote forested landscapes and relaxed, peaceful lifestyle. New Zealand is split into North Island – home to the capital city of Wellington and the most populous city in the country, Auckland – and South Island, which is home to only 23% of the country’s inhabitants. Its strong Polynesian heritage is reflected in the modern-day celebration of the Maori culture; watch a cultural performance of a traditional song or dance, enjoy a hangi (a Maori feast) or if you are brave enough, get a traditional ta moko (tattoo). New Zealand is very much an outdoors nation; the natural landscape is filled with forests, mountains, fiords, beaches and lakes, making hiking, mountain biking and camping popular activities with the locals.