Places In New Zealand That Don’t Feel Real

Places In New Zealand That Don’t Feel Real

By Katie Manly, Swain Destinations 

New Zealand is for adventure seekers of all levels.  

Its Māori culture is renowned for being welcoming and wise.  

The adventure on offer ranges from mild to high octane.  

Its landscapes have become immortalized thanks to the many films it has set the backdrop for, including The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit trilogies, because of its otherworldly natural formations. Here are just a few amazing places in New Zealand that will make you feel like your life is a movie… 

On the South Island, witness the pristine wilderness of the Fiordland National Park. Experience the unspoiled beauty of the Southern Alps with a helicopter tour of Fiordland National Park’s breathtaking wilderness. A landing at Milford Sound, where you can indulge in a delightful picnic lunch, will be an absolute highlight of your time in New Zealand as its beauty is so legendary, that it is almost folklore.  

There’s no place quite like Queenstown for adventure seekers. Known for its breathtaking landscapes, it’s no wonder that it is considered the adventure capital of the world – who wouldn’t want to see this iconic destination from every angle? Take a leap from an airplane or bungee from the iconic Kawarau Bridge for a bird’s eye view. Prefer to keep your feet closer to the ground? Get the adrenaline pumping from a more reasonable height; try jetboating or whitewater rafting on the Shotover River. But, if your stomach does somersaults at the thought of it all, you can still enjoy Queenstown’s picturesque scenery from aloft by scenic helicopter flight, ATV, cycling, or hiking the countryside. 

Over the Top – Milford Sounds
Jet Tours

After an action-packed adventure in Queenstown, an escape to blissful seclusion in the Ahuriri Valley, a destination truly off the beaten path, is a must-do. Home of the Ahuriri River, a legendary spot for world class fly fishing, it is considered to be in the top five best places to cast a line across the planet. If fly fishing isn’t your area of expertise, there is still plenty of adventure on offer. Hiking, horseback riding, and star gazing all top the list as must-dos in this beautiful part of the country. 

After recharging your spirit in the expansive wilderness of the Ahuriri Valley, put your explorer boots on and hike the estimated 16,000-year-old Tasman glacier and marvel at the beauty of Mount Cook. Spot dolphins, whales, seals, and adorable little blue penguins at Marlborough Sounds before traveling through the rolling hills of the Marlborough wine region in search of your favorite Sauvignon Blanc. 

Marlborough Sounds
Kaikōura

Stay a few nights in the cultural and architectural capital of the South Island, Christchurch, a city on the sea with a small-town feel. Christchurch also serves as the gateway to Akaroa and Kaikoura. Kaikoura is a seaside settlement renowned for its variety of marine mammals, including the giant sperm whale and the acrobatic Dusky Dolphins. Kaikoura is overlooked by majestic, snow-capped mountains. Experiencing this stunning alpine scenery while swimming with dolphins is a memory which will stay with you for a lifetime.  

On the North Island, visit the ancestral home of the Te Arawa, a Māori tribe whose people came by canoe and settled the area more than 600 years ago. This is Rotorua, famous for its geothermal springs, bubbling pools of sulfuric mud, and geysers. Allow the locals to show their Māori history and hospitality in all its glory, sharing a meal cooked from the steaming ground, a traditional Haka performance, and indulgent spa therapy. 

The Lindis
Mt. Tawawera

A couple hours’ drive away through dairy farms and kiwi fruit orchards, Waitomo Caves are subterranean limestone caverns with something unique deep within. Arachnocampa Luminosa, or glow worms as they’re lovingly called, are found exclusively in New Zealand and light up the Waitomo Caves as though they were decorated for the holidays. 

This is just a small sampling of the awe-inspiring destinations in New Zealand that don’t feel as though they belong to this planet. Well worth the trip, these places will have you wondering how you’ve lived this long without bearing witness to these otherworldly vistas for yourself.   

About the author: 

Katie Manly, VP of Sales & Marketing at Swain Destinations 

As the VP of Marketing and Sales at Swain Destinations, I craft the communications and advertising that represent a truly knowledgeable and purpose-driven team of master designers of luxury travel – a responsibility that I am honored to have been given. As part of my job, I am lucky enough to travel to our destinations all over the world, just as our clients do. Traveling as a Swain Destinations client would is a privilege of my job and also part of what makes Swain Destinations so successful, as we experience what our clients experience – whether on safari, snorkeling the Great Barrier Reef, or even taking my family to meet the real Santa Claus in the Arctic Circle. I truly believe that travel has the capacity to create personal connections and fulfillment so strong that it changes us for the better, which is why I am so passionate about what we do here at Swain Destinations. 

About Swain Destinations

Swain Destinations are Master Designers of luxury travel. Our Team has been meticulously planning personalized vacations to Australia, New Zealand, the South Pacific Islands, Africa, and the Middle East for over 35 years. Nothing we ever do is cookie-cutter. We have access to places and excursions that can only come with time, relationships, and experience.  It is our culture of integrity, value, and personal service that makes us the luxury traveler’s choice and is why our philosophy is “luxury with heart”. 

Poland’s Sustainable Tourism: A Green Path to Discovery 

Poland’s Sustainable Tourism: A Green Path to Discovery 

By: Polish Tourism Organization

Poland, a country rich in history, culture, and natural beauty, is carving a path towards sustainable tourism, setting an example for how to balance the influx of tourists with the preservation of its environment and heritage. This commitment to green travel practices is not only enhancing visitor experiences but also ensuring that Poland’s treasures remain vibrant and accessible for future generations. 

Szczecin
Hel Peninsula

Eco-Friendly Accommodations and Transport 

Poland’s approach to sustainable tourism is multifaceted, focusing on environmental protection, socio-cultural integrity, and economic benefits for local communities. From the Tatra Mountains’ pristine landscapes to the historic streets of Krakow and Gdansk, sustainable practices are being integrated to protect these destinations while accommodating tourists. 

A key element of Poland’s sustainable tourism strategy is the promotion of eco-friendly accommodations. Hotels and lodges across the country, some of the newest in Europe, are adopting green practices, such as using renewable energy sources, implementing water-saving techniques, and reducing waste. These establishments often receive certifications, such as the EU Ecolabel, assuring travelers of their commitment to environmental stewardship. 

Warsaw
Tatra Mountains

Moreover, Poland is enhancing its public transportation network and promoting the use of bicycles and electric vehicles among tourists. Cities like Warsaw and Krakow have extensive bike-sharing systems, making it easy and green to explore. Long-distance travel options also include modern, efficient trains that offer a sustainable alternative to air travel within the country. 


Conservation Efforts and Responsible Tourism 

Poland’s national parks and nature reserves are at the forefront of conservation efforts, with strict regulations in place to protect biodiversity. The Bialowieza Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is an exemplary model of how Poland is preserving its unique natural environments. Visitors are encouraged to explore these areas responsibly, following guidelines that minimize their environmental impact. 

Malbork Castle
Ostrów

Responsible tourism initiatives extend to cultural heritage sites as well. Efforts to maintain and restore historical landmarks, such as the Wawel Castle in Krakow and the Malbork Castle, are undertaken with sustainability in mind, using traditional materials and techniques to preserve authenticity while ensuring longevity. Sustainable tourism in Poland is also about benefiting local communities. By promoting local crafts, cuisine, and traditions, tourists get an authentic experience while contributing to the local economy. Agrotourism is gaining popularity, offering visitors the chance to stay in rural areas, participate in farming activities, and learn about traditional Polish ways of life. 

Poznań
Lublin

The Future of Tourism in Poland 

Poland’s journey towards fully sustainable tourism is in full swing and challenges are met with innovative solutions. As Poland continues to develop its sustainable tourism industry, it sets a benchmark for other countries to follow. The emphasis on environmental conservation, coupled with the promotion of cultural and historical heritage, positions Poland as a leading destination for travelers seeking authentic and eco-friendly experiences. 

Poland’s commitment to sustainable tourism is a testament to its dedication to preserving its natural beauty and cultural richness for future generations. By choosing to travel sustainably in Poland, visitors play a part in protecting this vibrant country’s legacy, making every trip not just a journey of discovery, but also a step towards a more sustainable world. Poland represents a harmonious blend of environmental stewardship, cultural preservation, and economic viability. As the world becomes increasingly aware of the importance of sustainable travel, Poland’s efforts shine as a beacon of hope, proving that it is possible to welcome tourists while safeguarding the planet’s precious resources. 

About Polish Tourism Organization

The objective of the Polish Tourism Organization is the promotion of Poland as a modern, attractive country offering travelers a high standard of services and appealing prices. We carry out work focused on the promotion and development of Polish tourism both at home and abroad.