Lake Wanaka

Hot on the heels of Rugby World Cup, and a bag full of international tourism accolades from 2011, New Zealand is set to stay in the international spotlight for 2012.

Challenge Wanaka – profiled as ‘the world’s most scenic iron distance triathlon’ – plays out across a stunning New Zealand South Island alpine landscape.

Summer is the season for outdoor food and wine events in New Zealand, and this year a worldwide movement embracing this - The Summer of Riesling is set to captivate the country.

Kiwi adventurer Erik Bradshaw has made New Zealand alpine history as the first person to ski the length of the Southern Alps.

International travel authority 'Lonely Planet' has chosen New Zealand’s Southern Lakes region as one of the world’s ‘Top 10 Regions to visit in 2012’.

From New Zealand’s deep south to the far north, the inaugural Tour of New Zealand – scheduled for 14 to 21 April 2012 – is destined to put a new spin on cycling New Zealand.

New Zealand's southern winter slopes are a-buzz with high adrenalin activity as international snow and ice sports stars take their places for the second 100% Pure New Zealand Winter Games.

A wintry blast has dumped a deep snow blanket across New Zealand’s mountains over the past week, leaving ski fields in the north and south in superb shape for the winter season.

Skiers and snowboarders are clapping their gloved hands and kicking up their snow boots – kei te heke te hukapapa (it is snowing) and the New Zealand ski season is underway.

Top international snow and ice sports athletes are due to descend on New Zealand’s Southern Alps this winter, for 16 days of cool action in the 100% Pure New Zealand Winter Games.