SOME INFORMATION ON NEW ZEALAND

New Zealand is located in the Southern Hemisphere and is approximately 2,200 km east of Australia and 10,400 south west of USA. It consists of two large islands around which are scattered a number of small islands.

The North Island is 110,000 sq. km and the South Island is 150,000 sq. km.

The most noticeable features of this country are the great number of beautiful lakes and rivers. Both North Island and South Island have very high mountains with volcanoes at various areas that are still active. Thermal activities are frequent especially in the North Island.

The population of New Zealand consists mainly of Pakeha, Maori and a small percentage of Chinese, Indian and other races. To-date, the population of New Zealand approximates 4 million. For a land area of 260,000 sq. km, this is a very lightly populated country.

New Zealand's strength lies in its ability to offer diverse unique holiday experiences suitable for all ages. For the young, there are a wide range of educational and developmental activities such as farm stays, sea life watching in its natural habitat, viewing geographical wonders of the world. For teenagers, there are challenging outdoor activities to provide the adrenaline rush and excitement, adventure and personal achievements. For those who prefer a leisurely pace, there are plenty of hideouts amidst  beautiful scenery such as photogenic lakes, lush alpine, scenic Mount Cook, springs blossom or Autumns golden leaves. A perfect hideaway for newly weds or young couples. Alternatively, if you are travelling with the elderly, there a tranquil walks and shopping spots to pass the time.

So varied is the experience, a short visit would not be enough.

ABOUT THE TRIP

Other than Singapore, this was actually my first trip outside Malaysia.

The idea basically came about when a collegue mine complained about being stressed out and suggested we took a month long break to some exotic destination. Fortunately for us, another collegue overheard her and suggested New Zealand as a travel destination. We planned this trip for three months but due to unforeseen circumstances, I had to defer my trip to a later date.

My friend went ahead with her trip and came back with fantastic stories of New Zealand. I was determined to go there even if it meant travelling alone.

Due to budget constraints, I decided to go backpacking. The MSL travel office kindly gave me the relevant information on budget travels and helped me booked the first night stay at Christchurch. The rest was for me to decide once I am in Christchurch.

My adventure in New Zealand begins.

Alan Soon

This web-site was last updated by Alan Soon on 20 January 2008

You are visitor number since 31 May 1999

Do come back for more.