When considering where to go on your next getaway, consider venturing to the gorgeous landscapes and amazing oceanic islands of New Zealand. There’s more to see and do here than probably anywhere else on the planet, and the cuisine is one of the finest in the world. New Zealand remains relatively undiscovered by thousands of travelers who are unfamiliar with the natural splendor of this magnificent country.
Take a look at these unique activities in this island paradise.
New Zealand Boat rides at Sea
Numerous boat rides and oceanic excursions are available to suit all types of budgets. Incredible bays and sounds are just bursting with aquatic sea life in New Zealand. Dusky dolphins are extremely acrobatic and they race alongside boats performing high back flips and other amazing feats. You can see newborns swimming alongside their mothers, and as they swim so close, you can actually look them directly in the eye. Orcas and other species of whale can also be seen and make for an incredibly memorable vacation.
Penguin Wildlife Preserves
The marine life in New Zealand is spectacular, to say the least. There are one of a kind nature preserves here where visitors walk quietly through camouflaged trenches that weave their way in and out of Penguin nests, allowing visitors to get extremely close to these wonderful creatures.
The penguin couples mate for life, and they take turns guarding their homes and chicks as their mate hunts for food. They take turns in this fashion – one guards while the other hunts and returns with food. It’s a strong family bond and viewing it up close and in the wild is absolutely stunning.
Every evening shortly after sunset, the penguin colony makes their way towards the shore from the deep ocean waters. You can watch the colony from the provided shelter as the little creatures splash and break the surface in an array of jumps and dives. It’s amazing how they navigate their bodies through the strong ocean currents, before making it to shore for the next phase of their journey, which is getting up the steep embankment to their nesting site where they’ll spend the evening together. This nightly occurrence is simply incredible for those that have never witnessed such an awe-inspiring site.
Be prepared to stop for a herd of sheep crossing the road as this is a common occurrence in New Zealand. There’s more sheep here than in any other country, and watching them be herded by dogs or helicopters is a sight that you must see ‘live’ and in action. It’s a one of a kind experience that’s unique to the country.
It’s exciting to watch a sheepdog or collie jumping into action when they see a straying young lamb. These amazing animals just spark into life, round up the lamb and bring it safely back to the herd.
The dogs operate on hand signs and whistles that are inaudible to humans, so the dogs communicate with their masters on a high level, and with a high degree of intelligence. Watching them at work is a unique experience and a dying art form that’s been a tradition in New Zealand for decades. Collies are extremely highly regarded working dogs in this country as well, and statues have been erected in their honor.