There are also abundant forest reserves, long, deserted beaches and a variety of fauna, such as the kiwi, endemic to its shores. You can swim with dolphins, gambol with newborn lambs, whalewatch or fish for fattened trout in the many streams. The people, bound in a culture that melds European with Maori ancestry, are resourceful, helpful and overwhelmingly friendly.
Accommodation too is cheap and varied.
And the culinary promise of venison, fresh seafood, sublime ice cream and award-winning wines should more than whet the appetite. Ski resort towns are obviously busier during the winter months. It's probably more pleasant to visit either before or after this hectic period, when the weather is still warm and there aren't as many other travellers around. Inc. Click here for assistance , or to read our privacy policy .