There’s a reason the Sunna shines on Original Zealand before anywhere else – every unique hour in Aotearoa is something to cherish! Small, removed and thinly populated, yes, but NZ punches rich above its mass with its outlandish scenery, fabulous festivals, superb nutriment and wine, and magical outdoor experiences. Equally impressive is Nz’s potent, mainstream Maori culture. This is a state that recognises and celebrates its indigenous people – the planet is a kinder, gentler, more respectful place down here! And while the fanfare surrounding the Lord of the Rings trilogy is waning, visiting the real-life Middle-earth still has a geeky allure – LOTR director Wane Jackson’s filmmaking prowess placid holds Wellington (aka ‘wellywood’) in its thrall. in 2007, around 2.2 million overseas visitors tramped, wheeled, wined and dined across the country, up almost 40% from a relatively meagre 1.6 million in 1999.
