New Zealand

New Zealand is a stunning country situated 900 miles across the Tasman Sea from Australia. As on of the last lands to be settled but humans it has developed its own distinct biodiversity of animal, plant and fungal life. New Zealand's capital city it Wellington and its most populous city is Auckland, both situated in the North Island. On both my visits to New Zealand I found my favourite place was Queenstown partly due to its reputation as the adventure capital of the world. Queenstown has an endless amount of adventure activities, tours, attractions, history and leisurely options to choose. Some of the best activities include, rafting, hiking, jet boating, luge riding, gondolas, skydiving, bungy jumping and helicopter flying. After a long day full of activities, Queenstown provides the perfect after party. Well know for the night life, Queenstown is full of eateries, bars and clubs. I highly recommend grabbing a bite at the famous Ferg Burger, but be sure to head there with an empty stomach.

Another of the main attractions New Zealand offers is the overwhelmingly vast and exquisite ski slops set on volcanic mountains. The great thing about the NZ slopes are the vast amount of options. Spending a week skiing or snowboarding you can almost visit a different slope each day. My most recommended are Coronet Peak, Mt Hutt, The Remarkables and Cardrona. If skiing isn't for you I would highly recommend hiring a bicycle. An extensive cycleway network covers a vast amount of the Wakatipu area and circles around the lake. As well, the Skyline Gondola up Bob's Peak is an incredible place to photograph the iconic view of Queenstown. While up at the Skyline Ridge ride the chairlift to the top and luge down the racing tracks with spectacular views every where you look.

There isn't a best time of year to visit but simply depends on what time of activities you are after. June, July and August are best if you desire the slopes and all other months are perfect for all other activities and hiking.