From exploding geysers to incredible wine country, and adrenalin-fuelled sports to famous film sets – New Zealand has it all. Read our snapshot for a taster of both incredible islands.

New Zealand was the magical film setting for the Lord of the Rings trilogy and The Chronicles of Narnia, but nothing prepares you for the majesty of the real thing. Dramatic mountains, snowfields and glaciers in the South Island sweep down to mysterious fiords carved deep into the coastline. Lush pastures, vineyards, rolling hills and glorious white beaches of the North Island blend into boiling mud pools and exploding geysers. There's more variety here than anywhere else on earth.

Auckland has a love affair with the sea, hence its name, 'The City of Sails'. Wellington, New Zealand's capital city, is set on the edge of a stunning harbour surrounded by rolling hills. Still on North Island, the Wairarapa is wine country, forest, wild coast and wildlife sanctuaries rolled into one.

Christchurch is the main city in the Canterbury area on the South Island's east coast. From silvery beaches and great sweeps of pastureland to Mount Cook, the country's highest mountain, it's big scenery – best seen from a hot-air balloon.

Queenstown nestles on the shores of Lake Wakatipu and is surrounded by mountains. It's the adrenalin destination, with bungee jumping, jet-boating, canyon swinging, white-water rafting and heli-skiing never too far away. Enjoy your adventure among a breathtaking panorama or just chill out and explore the magnificent scenery.

With about 65 wineries, Marlborough is New Zealand's largest winemaking region. Get to know the distinctive, herbaceous Sauvignon Blancs or delicious bubblies, and walk them off with some excellent hill and coastal trails.

A New Zealand holiday will be unforgettable.

Article added 18th March 2009.

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