Adventure

When the 3000-kilometre Te Araroa – The Long Pathway was completed in New Zealand in December 2011, it became one of the world's longest walking trails.

For winter holidaymakers wanting to take a day off from skiing and snowboarding, New Zealand’s ski regions offer some quirky fun-filled snow-related activities.

Classed as the world’s best freeskier, at just 19 New Zealander Jossi Wells has already jumped off more mountains and stood on more podiums than most other sportsmen of his age.

Snow is gathering on New Zealand’s high country, and mountain resorts are grooming their fields as the country says goodbye to autumn and welcomes visitors for another season of uniquely Kiwi winter events.

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.

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.

As the official gateway to Antarctica, Christchurch New Zealand has developed strong links with the white continent that have gone well beyond being the stepping-off point for expeditions.

Some classic examples of Kiwi ingenuity, inventions and entrepreneurs.

New Zealand’s fascination with the water is hardly surprising given the country’s geographical location and history.