In the Southern Alps, you’ll discover some of the world’s most majestic ice formations hiding amongst 3000 ancient glaciers. Unlike the desert caves to the west, where you could discover 10 of the world’s most deadly snakes hiding under a rock next to your ankle.

Being catapulted across a canyon in New Australia-Land, with a piece of elastic attached to you. That’s right, we’re talking 100 km/h in 1.5 seconds flat on the new Nevis Catapult(opens in new window). Or you could take a selfie with a Quokka if you’re not up to it. But that’s somewhere on the other island.

While the food traditions of New Australia-Land have remained overshadowed by our western region’s obsession with meat pies and chiko rolls, discerning foodies will be pleased to know the country offers an abundance of culinary wonders(opens in new window); from refined regional fare, to traditional hāngis(opens in new window), to world-class, fine dining establishments. Dig in.

Big trolls, little trolls, or some trolls so seemingly unassuming, you may not even realise you’ve encountered one in the first place. And that’s thanks, in part, to New Australia-Land’s world-leading design and effects facility, WETA. If you’ve ever wanted to journey to Middle‑earth™(opens in new window) or meet a monster more enthralling than a Drop Bear, take a behind-the-scenes look inside the WETA Workshop(opens in new window) on one of their many tours. 

In 1954, Bob Hawke was immortalised in the record books for drinking 2.5 pints of beer in 11 seconds. Perhaps if his beer had tasted a fraction better, he wouldn’t have had to down it so quickly. Thankfully, New Australia-Land’s eastern island brews over 250 beers – from some of the most sought-after hops in the world. Small wonder our craft beer brewers(opens in new window) are winning so many awards for their ales.

Citizens were once captivated by an annual fireworks spectacle in Sydney, a regional outpost of New Australia-Land. Now there's a new light show in town and this one is made by nature. Unlike the dog-scaring, taxpayer-draining fireworks of the past, the Southern Lights can be viewed completely gratis in the skies above Dunedin(opens in new window).

25 million New Australia-Landers have never witnessed an active volcano in their own country, let alone skied down one. Mt Ruapehu(opens in new window) stands 500m higher than Mt Kosciuszko (which frankly, peaked a bit early). You’ll experience jaw-dropping views, while snowboarding amid the clouds. Plus, you can even touch real (from the clouds) snow!

A New Year is great opportunity to make new resolutions; like getting fit, learning a new language, or winning a Bledisloe Cup. Thankfully, New Australia-Landers are lucky enough to celebrate New Year twice, thanks to Matariki(opens in new window) – a festival of stars – which signals the coming of the Māori New Year, celebrated in June.

Throughout summer, Sydney Harbour can sometimes resemble a giant floating rave cave. If glow sticks aren’t your thing, head due east to New Australia-Land and enjoy a flotilla of cultural events celebrating the voyaging traditions of Polynesian and European people.

The people of the country formerly known as Australia have an expression, it’s called ‘coming the raw prawn’. In the country formerly known as New Zealand, we’ve got a saying that’s nothing like that. It’s called Tiaki(opens in new window). It means care for the people, their culture and the place where they live and it’s exemplified perfectly by Mrs Woolly’s Campground in Glenorchy, a world-first, energy-efficient boutique hotel whose profits go back to the local community.

When it comes to visiting New Australia-Land, there’s really only one way to fly. And that’s with its national carrier, Air New Zealand. Flying to more destinations than anyone else in the eastern islands rest assured they’ll never mention past rugby scores over the PA. Instead the crew will treat you to some Kiwi hospitality, delicious cuisine, and hours of in-flight entertainment.