Christchurch - Canterbury

The vision of All Black coach Graham Henry relaxing on the beach or fishing at one of his favourite island haunts is hard to imagine - given the pressure of Rugby World Cup 2011.

Passionate rugby fans and hospitable Kiwi hosts all over New Zealand are throwing down the Rugby World Cup 2011 welcome mat – nowhere more so than in the 24 communities that will officially host rugby teams.

Canterbury – New Zealand’s largest region – rises from the Pacific Ocean, sweeps across vast plains, through braided river valleys, and climbs into the magnificent Southern Alps that divide the length of the South Island.

Trains and boats and planes, and Hobbit motels are just some of the quirky overnighters for travellers looking for out-of-the-ordinary accommodation in New Zealand.

Talented Kiwi chefs, innovative cuisine, top wines, and a growing list of high-end destinations and food events are helping New Zealand develop a reputation in the world of fine cuisine.

New Zealand has laid down the welcome mat with a new campaign to assure travellers that the country is very much open for business, while bloggers throughout the world are extolling the virtues of the destination.

New Zealand’s southern hemisphere ski fields – renowned for spectacular mountain terrain, postcard scenery, varied snow trails, and popular resorts – are gearing up for the winter 2011 season.

New Zealand has a long history of brewing – from Captain Cook who brewed up the first beer in the 1770s to the establishment of the earliest pubs and breweries during 19th century colonial times.

New Zealand might be best known for its award-winning wines, but Kiwis are also beer drinkers and have developed a discerning palate that has prompted a boutique brewery boom.

Rugby is an integral part of being a Kiwi and Rugby World Cup 2011 is destined to turn New Zealand into a non-stop party zone called the REAL New Zealand Festival.