Helpful Information For Visiting New Zealand

Posted by on February 10, 2012

New Zealand is a beautiful island country located in the southwestern Pacific Ocean. Geographically, the country is comprised of two main landmasses – the North and South islands – as well as many smaller islands. Due to the remoteness of the land it was one of the last to be settled by humans. Anyone interested in traveling to New Zealand will have to fill out an application for United States passport if they do not already have one.

Landscape

During the long period of isolation from humans, the land of New Zealand developed an interesting array of both animal and plant species. Most famously, New Zealand is home to large number of unique bird species, many of which become extinct after the arrival of humans. Due to the mild maritime climate surrounding the islands, most of the land in New Zealand is covered in lush forest. New Zealand is a great country to visit for any nature lover.

Culture

The mostly rural life in early New Zealand has given the country on image of being rugged and industrious. In the early 1960s, however, higher education standards become more prominent and cities started to quickly expand. Urban culture began to take over as most of the citizens currently residing in New Zealand do so in large cities. Even so, the vast majority of New Zealand’s art, literature and film have mostly rural themes.

Parks

New Zealand offers a plentiful amount of national parks, rural areas, and other attractions that are well worth a visit. The Abel Tasman National Park offer golden sand beaches, kayaking and a beautiful coastal biking trail. The Tongariro National Park is known for having three volcanoes, two expansive ski fields, and one of the most popular hiking trails in the whole country. Another scenic area for tourists to visit is the Coromandel Peninsula. This rugged coastline has plenty of beaches and hiking opportunities that is only an hour away from the capital city of Auckland.

Requirements For Travel

With a valid United States passport you are able to enter New Zealand for up to three months. However, with exception of Australian citizens and permanent residents, entry as a visitor does not permit employment in New Zealand. If entering as a tourist you must have a return ticket or evidence of onward travel to enter New Zealand. If you do not then you will be required to purchase one at the airport to be allowed to check in. More information about the minimum validity of travel documents is available online. Get an overnight US passport if you need one.

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