Not to miss

Wellington

Bound by its magnificent harbour, with wooden Victorian buildings terraced up steep hills, New Zealand's capital is home to its parliament and national treasures. Spectacular views, challenging walks, a thriving cafe and entertainment scene, and serious dedication to the arts make Wellington an enormously enjoyable place in which to spend a few days.

Compact and walkable, 'Welly' is only the country's third-largest city and takes part in a friendly rivalry with larger Auckland. Given its size, there's an astounding number of quality restaurants, bars, shops and theatres. The city prides itself as a cultural centre and is the home of NZ's growing film industry and acclaimed director Peter Jackson.

Auckland

This waterside city has a strong pulse and a nautical twinkle in its eye. Its location on a thin stretch of the North Island, sandwiched between the Pacific Ocean and the Tasman Sea, is complemented by the lush subtropical forests of nearby hills and the volcanic terrains of nearby islands.

With its spectacular harbour and bridge, New Zealand's largest city ranks with the best and its districts weave their way around a variety of bays ideal for swimming, water sports and particularly yachting - hence the nickname 'City of Sails'.

Franz Josef & Fox Glaciers

NZ's two most famous glaciers are major attractions, mighty cascades of ice tumbling down a valley towards the sea. The heavy tourist traffic is catered for in the twin towns of Franz Josef and Fox Glacier. These small tourist villages provide accommodation and facilities at high-ish prices. Franz is busier but Fox has more of an Alpine-village charm.

Aoraki/Mt Cook

The Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park is spectacular. More than one-third of the park has a blanket of permanent snow and glacial ice. Of the 27 NZ mountains that stretch over 3050m (10065ft) high, 22 are in this park. The mighty Mt Cook, known to Maoris as Aoraki, the 'Cloud Piercer', is the highest peak in Australasia at 3755m (12,391ft).

Otago Peninsula

Otago Peninsula is the South Island's most accessible wildlife area (albatross, yellow-eyed penguins, blue penguins, fur seals and sea lions all thrive here). It also has a score of historical sites, walkways and unique natural formations. For an overview, pick up the brochure and map from Dunedin's visitors centre and check the peninsula website.