Regional Facts

You’ll find everything you need to know about New Zealand and its regions here, from population figures to climate, historical facts to estimated driving distances, key attractions and beyond. As the locals say, if it’s not here it doesn’t matter. We’ve also included a range of travel tips to make your journey a breeze.

Auckland & Northland

In the lower part of this region you'll find Auckland, New Zealand's biggest and most populated city. Almost completely surrounded by water, the aptly-named 'City of Sails' is a thriving multicultural metropolis.

The centre of the North Island is the land of fire. It is dominated by volcanic cones and great lakes formed by eruptions long ago.

The Pacific Coast Highway travels along the spectacular east coast of the Central North Island and is known for its quality and attractive vineyards.

At the northern end of this region, the more adventurous travellers are well catered for. With two great rivers providing plenty of opportunity for rafting excursions and exploration, the Rangitikei and the Whanganui bring this part of the region to life and is an exciting addition to any travel itinerary.

At the southern end of the North Island is the vibrant city of Wellington, the nation's capital. Well known for it's fine wine and creative cuisine, Wellington is a sophisticated boutique city that is only minutes from the rugged South Coast and the many bush walks that wind their way through the city.

At the northern end of the South Island are the winding sheltered waterways of the Marlborough Sounds. This collection of drowned river valleys is a natural wonder, unparalleled in New Zealand. This is the region of nature's infinite variety.

The Canterbury and West Coast region of the South Island is a place of dramatic diversity - an area to explore and enjoy.

In the centre of the Southern Lakes region is an area with some of the world's most stunning scenery. People come here from all over the world to gaze at the lakes, rivers and mountains, and to play on them.

The south end of the South Island is about as far away from the rest of the world as you can get, and nature is always close by.

Print Page

Email to a Friend

Call us anytime - 24 hours a day / 7 days a week international toll free.
Worldwide: 00 800 200 80 801 - USA & Canada: 011 800 200 80 801 - Australia: 1300 363 800 -
New Zealand: 0800 651 080