Story Angles

The New Zealand Nature Network is a group of nature tourism operators who comply with an eco-tourism charter ensuring ecologically friendly tourism.

Spas in Rotorua move with the times. The Polynesian Spa opens its new Lake Spa Retreat and Hell's Gate at Tikitere has opened deep bathing mud pools.

Increases in catch rates from rivers with 'catch and release' regulations have been spectacular in many parts of North America, most notably Montana. 'Catch and release' was introduced to New Zealand by visiting American fly-fishers and is a predominant philosophy today, particularly in pristine wilderness rivers.

The South Island of New Zealand is one of the best road cycling locations in the world.

The dream of two Maori brothers has allowed visitors to experience first-hand New Zealand Maori culture, their arts and crafts, music and food, at the Tamaki Maori Village near Rotorua.

Rising opera star Deborah Wai Kapohe is rapidly making a name for herself as the ultimate successor to New Zealand’s greatest ever soprano, Dame Kiri Te Kanawa.

Former Auckland film director Roger Donaldson has become a respected director in Hollywood. Summary of achievements.

New Zealander Jane Campion is one of only two female filmmakers to have ever been nominated for an Academy Award.

Director Lee Tamahori, of Once Were Warriors fame, has lead a successful directing career since.

The Lord of the Rings was filmed over 274 days, using 350 purpose-built sets in more than 150 locations all over New Zealand (including 30 Department of Conservation sites).