New Zealand Islands

New Zealand is comprised of a number of islands. The two main islands include North Island and South Island although Stewart Island is also quite important, as seen in the photograph. As you will discover in this article, some of the other, smaller islands are just as impressive.

The South Island is the colder of the two larger ones, often producing harsh conditions. However, here you will find magnificent glacial mountains and interesting areas. For instance, Queenstown is an excellent place if you love outdoor activities. Set in a glacial valley on Lake Wakatipu’s edge, you can enjoy things such as parasailing, whitewater rafting, bungee jumping, or jet boating on icy rapids.

However, the Otago Peninsula and Fiordland National Park are also just as spectacular. The Otago Peninsula is a place with an abundance of wildlife, as well as penguin, seal, and woodland gardens. While there, you can visit a number of historical sites, aquariums, and museums. The Fiordland National Park is a wilderness of ice, mountains, and beech forests. You can take a beautiful alpine walk, one of the greatest on Routeburn Track or simply spend time in the natural setting, which will leave you with lifetime memories of just how beautiful New Zealand really is.

The North Island is between the South Pacific Ocean and the Tasman Sea. The weather is warm and the environment just as stunning as the South Island, just different. Here, you will find the major cities to include Auckland and Wellington, meaning the accommodations and amenities are more modern. As you can imagine, the North Island offers fine restaurants, museums, art galleries, incredible shopping, cultural and historical sites, and more.

Stewart Island is smaller than North and South but still ranks number three in size. If you love nature, then you will fall in love with Stewart Island, which is why it is such a popular destination. The island offers kakas, bellbirds, parakeets, and kiwi fruit, which is actually rare on the other two big islands. This particular island offers several great trails if you enjoy walking or hiking, excellent beaches, and more. Keep in mind that less than 400 people currently live in Stewart Island and unfortunately, they are often wary and suspicious of tourists. Therefore, always be respectful and friendly.

Next is the Great Barrier Island, which is located at the mouth of the Hauraki Gulf. This island is known for its long stretch of pristine beaches on the eastern side. However, if you head to the western side, you will discover a number of deepwater inlets. Other features of the island that make it such as great place to visit include the 80,000-hectare reserve. There, you can enjoy many excellent trails, massive kauri forests, natural hot springs, and truly untouched land that is simply gorgeous.

Finally, White Island has captured the hearts and interest of many people, as you can see in the photograph. This island is actually the summit of two stratovolcanoes that overlap. In addition, White Island is New Zealand’s most active volcano, which is monitored by the minute.

Since 1826, there have been approximately 35 small to medium tephra and steam eruptions. Then in 1914, a major landslide killed 11 men. Also called Whakaari, this island was named by the Maori people prior to the arrival of the Europeans. Unlike many other active volcanoes, White Island can be reached by helicopter and boat, with many local companies offering daily tours. You can actually walk directly inside the main crater but keep in mind the trip is physical and there are risks.

Although there are certain precautions, what you get in return is the experience of a lifetime as you see the incredible power of the steam and gas bursts. Even the surroundings of White Island are surreal. Many people who have visited the crater will tell you they felt as if they were walking on the moon. You will notice the smell of sulfur and the noise of the steam can be deafening.

If you take a boat to White Island, you will have the double pleasure of seeing incredible bird and sea life. In fact, it is common to have dolphin escort you to the island. However, if you take the trip by helicopter, then you will have a spectacular view of this island as well as the surrounding ocean. Either way, you will be awestruck by this jut of land in the middle of the ocean, rugged yet so beautiful.


Last Updated: 10/19/2006 3:14:00 PM

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