There are certain places in
this world that are different from the rest. New Zealand is one of them.
New Zealand is
one-of-a-kind; a paradise found in the Pacific and a dream destination for
travelers of every breed. From stunning views of glaciers, iconic mountains and
beautiful lakes, to steep fjords, vast rolling hills and raging rivers, New
Zealand has more than a lot to offer. Everything in this country provokes you
to explore, interact, and create memories that are worth keeping.
I first visited this country
in 2013 and up until now, the wonderful experiences I had still stick with me
vividly. My travel consisted of two parts; an invigorating visit to New
Zealand’s South Island highlights that’s featured in this article, and a tour
through North Island’s wondrous and
uncrowded wilderness and attractions which will be part of my upcoming blog
post.
South
Island Highlights:
Christchurch
A trip to the South Island
would not be complete without a delightful stop in Christchurch. This vibrant
city is bounded by the Pacific Ocean coast with beautiful views of snow-capped
mountains and lakes on the other side. Christchurch is dotted with lush trees
and colorful flowers, adding more points to its eclectic charm.
Take time to walk through
the city, enjoy views of happy tourists and locals riding on bikes or hopping
on a fun cable car ride; stop for a coffee in one of the many coffee shops or
just roam around and let something great about the city.
Despite the tragic 2010 and
2011 earthquakes that left 186 people dead and many buildings destroyed, the
city has coped up creatively to rebuild what they’ve lost and continue to see
positively the endeavors their city will take.
Lake
Tepako
One of the main attractions
of the South Island is the stunning Lake Tepako. With endless views of
mountain, greeneries and blooms of colorful flowers, one cannot help but adore
everything about this natural charmer.
Lake Tepako offers vividly
lucid skies, letting everyone witness expansive views of star lights at night.
Standing on the shores of this lake is the Church of the Good Shepherd – a historic stone church that was built in 1935 as a place of prayer, reflection and worship.
Inside the church is an
altar window that captures breathtaking views of the lake and mountains.
Everyone who visits here will definitely have a wonderful photographic memento
of how beautiful this place is.
Lake
Pukaki
The South Island is home to
three parallel alpine lakes that flow along the Mackenzie Basin. These lakes are
named Pukaki, Tekapo, and Ohau. Out of these three, the largest is Lake Pukaki
– a legendary New Zealand attraction that offers fascinating landscapes of
nature with intoxicating views of glimmering blue waters overlooking high
mountain peaks covered in snow beneath the endlessly clear skies.
Mt.
Cook
Located in the heart of
South Island, Mt. Cook (locally known as Aoraki), is New Zealand’s highest peak
and possessor of spectacular views of sceneries that only nature can offer.
This iconic natural wonder has beautiful ranges that towers over South Island’s
beautiful countryside.
For those who love
countryside road trips, look no further than this side of New Zealand.
Fiordland
National Park
Sometimes, the best way to
explore a destination is through a charming cruise. And that’s exactly what I
did with my lovely wife during our first Doubtful Sound cruise together. On
this cruise, we journeyed into the wilderness and marveled through the unscathed
part of New Zealand.
We to continued to explore the beauty of the Fiorland National Park, witnessing stunning views of ice-carved fiords, lakes, valleys, and the rest of South Island wildlife nature surprises. Above it all was a clear sky dotted with glimmering stars that made the experience extra enchanting.
We to continued to explore the beauty of the Fiorland National Park, witnessing stunning views of ice-carved fiords, lakes, valleys, and the rest of South Island wildlife nature surprises. Above it all was a clear sky dotted with glimmering stars that made the experience extra enchanting.
Now would be the best time
to visit this beautiful place with the introduction of Philippine Airlines
flight to Auckland from Manila. Philippine Airlines will make this destination
more popular among activity loving Filipinos worldwide.
Until next time, I'm your friendly global traveler, Johnny, inspiring you to plan, pack, and go your next unforgettable adventure destination.
Until next time, I'm your friendly global traveler, Johnny, inspiring you to plan, pack, and go your next unforgettable adventure destination.
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