New Zealand. Sights

New Zealand is an island country in the Pacific Ocean. Geographically it is divided into two parts: South Island and North Island. There are also numerous small islands around. The closest country to New Zealand is Australia (1,500 km), although the country is still rather isolated. It is known for its large biodiversity of animals and plants. For governmental purposes the country is organized into 11 regional councils and 67 territorial authorities. The head of the country is Queen Elizabeth II, although the executive power is the hands of the Prime Minister. The capital of the country is Wellington, but the largest city is Auckland.

Every year thousands of people come to see and discover the riches of New Zealand. It is an extraordinary country with plenty of unique species and sights to offer. Tourists’ favourite destinations are the Sky Tower in Auckland, Kaikoura, Abel Tasman National Park, Coromandel Peninsula, Rotorua, Bay of Islands, Milford Sound and many other spectacular places.

The Sky Tower in Auckland has always attracted city visitors, as it’s the highest free-standing structure of the country and in the whole Southern Hemisphere. People can see up to 80 km away being at its top. There is also a nice revolving restaurant in the Orbit of the Tower. Kaikoura is a heaven for those who love seafood. It’s a small town on the South Island, which is prominent for its sea life views. One can see lots of dolphins, whales, fur seals, albatrosses, and other sea animals there. Brave tourists can take a walk in the untamed nearby forest. Abel Tasman National Park is a hiker’s dream. It’s a vast park on the northern tip of the South Island, which is closed to any vehicle. That’s why the area is supremely clean. While traversing the park, one can see a lot of rare birds, including blue penguins, wood pigeons, oyster catchers.

Coromandel Peninsula is one of the most visited corners of New Zealand. It is a north-eastern peninsula which is known for its golden beaches and unforgettable scenery. Surrounding forests are also worth exploring. Rotorua is another natural wonder. The place is literally a hotspot of geothermal waters and geysers. The majority of hot springs is either in national parks or in reserves. Bay of Islands with its numerous islets, secluded bays and picturesque sandy beaches is, perhaps, tourists’ favourite destination in New Zealand. Abundant sea life, including dolphins, whales and penguins, is undoubtedly attractive. Dramatic peaks and dark blue waters of Milford Sound create one of the most beautiful sceneries in the world.