Te Anau, New Zealand

Te Anau provides a base for exploring parts of the Fiordland National Park one of New Zealand's greatest wilderness zones. From here it is an easy 2½ hour drive to Milford Sound and 20 minutes by coach to Lake Manapouri and the start of a Doubtful Sound excursion.

If it is serenity you are after, then the Doubtful Sound can provide the perfect place for quiet reflection amongst the fiord's rich flora and fauna. Milford Sound is spectacular regardless of the weather - the many waterfalls are in full force when raining, and on a clear day the reflections of Mitre Peak against the fiord's waters are outstanding.

Lake Manapouri and Lake Te Anau are ideal holiday locations for all seasons. During summer the lakes cater for all water activities and during the winter these houses are retreats from which to admire views of the surrounding snow-capped mountains.

(Source: http://www.holidayhouses.co.nz)

Stewart Island, New Zealand

If you are interested in visiting one of New Zealand's most remote locations, then Stewart Island should be on your must do list. Its distance from anywhere means this untouched paradise has a very small population, making it perfect for those wanting a holiday away from civilisation. Stewart Island is accessed either by plane from Invercargill or by ferry from Bluff.

New Zealand's third largest island is almost totally made up of national park. Rakiura National Park covers 85% of the island leaving little space for habitation by human. Instead Stewart Island has become a haven for the kiwi and other native birds. One really special place to visit is Ulva Island, not too far from Oban, which is the main settlement of Stewart Island. Here you will see many types of New Zealand native birds - watch out for the cheeky weka.

Other than bird watching, other popular activities on the island include day walks - there are plenty of tracks accessible from Oban or go on a kayaking tour to explore the many coves and bays. Find a holiday house tucked into the bush to listen to the native bird song and make the most of being away from it all.

(Source: http://www.holidayhouses.co.nz)

Invercargill and Riverton

Invercargill is New Zealand's southernmost and westernmost city and it is full of character. Its distance from other parts of the country has given the city its own distinct flavour that is hard to describe.

Finding a holiday home close to Bluff or in Invercargill is suggested for the opening of the oyster season or alternatively for the Bluff Oyster Festival each April. This annual event attracts oyster lovers from afar - here they can eat oysters to their heart's content along with indulging in great Otago wines and other tasty seafood dishes.

Just to the south of Bluff, a significant part of New Zealand is marked - the end (or beginning) of State Highway One at Stirling Point. Here a signpost shows the distance and direction to various major cities and locations around the world so it's a cool place to stop for a perspective on just where you are standing.

Riverton, a picturesque fishing village set on a small port, provides a small selection of houses ideal for a holiday by the sea.

Invercargill also has Burt Munro that well known as the fastest man from New Zealand. Herbert (Burt) James Munro (25 March 1899–6 January 1978) was a New Zealand motorcycle racer, famous for setting an under-1000cc world record, 183.586 mph (295.453 km/h), at Bonneville, 26 August 1967. This record still stands today. Burt Munro was 68 and was riding a 47-year old machine when he set his last record.

Working from his home in Invercargill, he worked for 20 years to highly modify the 1920 Indian motorcycle which he had bought in 1920. Munro set his first New Zealand speed record in 1938 and later set seven more. He travelled to compete at the Bonneville Salt Flats, attempting to set world speed records. During his ten visits to the salt flats, he set three speed records, one of which still stands today. His efforts, and success, are the basis of the motion picture The World's Fastest Indian (2005), starring Anthony Hopkins, and an earlier 1971 short documentary film Burt Munro: Offerings to the God of Speed– both directed by Roger Donaldson.

(Source: http://www.holidayhouses.co.nz)

Southland and Fiordland

Here lie New Zealand's southernmost lands - a combination of farmland and vast wilderness. Te Anau is the base from which you can explore Doubtful and Milford Sounds or find a lake side holiday house on the edge of Lake Manapouri. Alternatively Stewart Island, which is home to New Zealand's newest national park - Rakiura - is a perfect place for nature lovers.

Riverton, Bluff and Invercargill all provide intriguing places to stay on holiday - you are guaranteed a warm southern welcoming when staying here. With surrounding farms teeming with sheep and the seas with blue cod, a night out in a local restaurant is highly recommended.

(Source: http://www.holidayhouses.co.nz)

Southland, South Island New Zealand

Southland is the part of South Island New Zealand, at the bottom of the island and close to Dunedin and Otago Peninsula.

More than one quarter of Southland is protected within the Fiordland and Rakiura National Parks, and numerous smaller parks and reserves. The rest of Southland is lush, green farmland with small and medium-sized towns scattered around. The southern coastline is a continuous parade of dramatic views, sandy beaches, rocky headlands and an incredible variety of marine and bird life.

Some of Southland’s more popular destinations have their own very informative websites. Click on these links to learn more specific information about Invercargill, Stewart Island, the Catlins, the Southern Scenic Route, Northern Southland, Fiordland and Western Southland.

Southland has experienced remarkable growth and development in recent years and boasts a range of world-class facilities, many initiatives of regional benefit and an expanding range of visitor attractions that feature some of the most distinctive landscapes in the country.

Farming, forestry and horticulture form the region's economic base, but Southland also has a diversity of manufacturing for export. It is one of the fastest growing tourist regions in New Zealand due to its unspoilt nature and wide recognition of it being a place to restore the soul. Southlanders are friendly, honest, hard-working and hospitable people - so come and find out about our many secrets that we would love to share with you.

Otago Peninsula, South Island New Zealand

The Otago Peninsula (19.000 ha), stretching along the southern edge of the Otago harbour is an easy drive from central Dunedin. A wonderfully scenic trip will see you passing lush green pastures, small bays and inlets, sandy beaches, rugged hills and volcanic landforms. So near to major city centre, yet so far removed from the hectic pace of city living.

The Otago Peninsula is arguably New Zealand's most renowned eco tourism areas. There are unique opportunities to view a remarkable range of wildlife including Royal Albatros, blue penguins, and rare yellow-eyed penguins a variety of seals, water and wading birds.

Explore the Peninsula's well preserved, colourful history. Larnach Castle, Glenfalloch Woodland Gardens, Disappearing Gun and New Zealand Marine Studies Centre Aquarium are just some of the highlight of any visit.

Discover the talents of current resident when you visit the galleries, studio and craft shops that do the small township and bays.

Otago Peninsula's cafes and restaurants offer the great selection of fine cousine at reasonable prices and the opportunity to sample some of New Zealand's award winning Central Otago wines.

A variety of accomodation styles to suit all budgets is available on Otago Peninsula. Stay a little longer and enjoy the hospitality found at our bed and breakfasts, Farmstays, Homestays, Motels and self-contained units, Cottages, Backpakers, Lodges, and Camping Grounds.

A round tour of the peninsula is approximately 64 kilometers. You may choose to travel the harbourside road out to Taiaroa Heads and Return to Dunedin via high road. Highcliff Road offers magnificent coastal and city view as well as nummerous photo opportunites.

Sources: atoZ Visitor Guide 2009

The Waitaki Valley, South Island New Zealand

The South Island of New Zealand always offers the interesting experience, one of the beautiful place is The Waitaki Valleys. Lets visit there and enjoy the natural place.

The Waitaki Valley is home to the Mighty Waitaki River and its tributaries. The river drives a hydro power scheme featuring a serius of dams and lakes. The Valley offers and array of outdoor activities including fishing, boating, camping, skiing, hunting, hiking, golf and gliding.

We also have opportunity to simply relax and enjoy the ambience at various villages. The Districts unique geological features are showcased at the Vanished World Centre and Trail at Duntroon which is also the gateway to the iconic Elephant Rocks and Dansey Pass.

Sources: atoZ Visitor Guide 2009