Canterbury, South Island
Self-drive is a great way to see New Zealand. Beyond the cities, the traffic is generally light, roads are well marked and the ever-changing landscapes are a pure delight. It pays to allow plenty of time though, because your camera will be begging you to stop at every turn. Coach tours and chauffeurs are also available.
Arrowtown, Queenstown, South Island
In 1862, gold was found in the Arrow River. As the news spread, hundreds of people flocked to the area hoping to find a fortune in the deep gravel of the river bed. From a settlement of tents and shanties, Arrowtown grew to become a permanent community with hotels, a bank and school. Today the heritage town is still touched by gold, especially in autumn.
Queenstown, South Island
Bike around one of New Zealand's most photographed lakes- Lake Hayes. At any time of the year the scenery is gorgeous, but the lake's photographic fame is mostly linked to its mirror abilities. On a still day, the image reflected in the lake's waters is nearly as sharp as the real thing.
Church of the Good Shepherd, Lake Tekapo, Canterbury
It's easy to see why New Zealand has become the place to shoot fantasy movies and get married. Sometimes the landscape is so amazing, it doesn't quite look real. This spectacular scene includes the Church of the Good Shepherd at Lake Tekapo, which is available for out-of-this-world weddings.
Dobson Valley, Canterbury, South Island
Nothing beats a picnic high in the Mountain views. It gets your body and soul right into holiday mode. Discover the exhilaration of effortlessly flying along braided river valleys and soaring over snow-capped Mountain views before landing gently in your own piece of paradise. Alpine heli-picnics are readily available from most of the South Island alpine resort towns.
Kepler Track, Fiordland National Park, South Island
One of New Zealand's Great Walks, the Kepler Track in Fiordland National Park is an epic wilderness trek that takes up to four days to complete. You'll see tussock landscapes, Mountain views, hanging valleys, lakes, rivers and huge alpine panoramas. Often you'll be hiking above the cloud line. Serviced huts provide comfortable accommodation along the way.
Aoraki, Mount Cook National Park, Canterbury, South Island
Late autumn delivers some of Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park's most dramatic scenery. Brightly gilded leaves still cling to the trees in wild contrast to the opaque turquoise of Lake Pukaki and the snow-laden Southern Alps beyond. Walking trails lead from the roadside high into the mountains, where you're assured of amazing views and a grand snowball fight.
Lake Hayes, Queenstown, South Island
Catch up on important couple time while you enjoy an easy pedal around the shores of beautiful Lake Hayes. In this kind of landscape, happiness is as easy as breathing the crisp alpine air. Talk, laugh, take pictures and spread a picnic rug when it's time for refreshments. This day will last forever in your memories.
