The rugged Kaikoura Ranges lie just a few kilometres behind the east coast of the South Island and reach heights of up to 2,500m. These craggy, wild mountains were the ideal training ground for Sir Edmund Hillary before his Everest ascent. Mountaineers, hikers, mountain bikers, paragliding enthusiasts, water sports fans or nature lovers will find excellent conditions for their sport in the region.
From the Banks Peninsula near Christchurch, I look west across the wide, fertile Canterbury Plains, New Zealand’s only major flat expanse. Behind the patchwork of pastures, fields and arable land, the Southern Alps stretch southwards.
Mt. Cook, New Zealand’s highest mountain (3751m), known as “Aoraki” by the Maori, is often shrouded in clouds, as its traditional name suggests. With its concentration of glaciers and numerous peaks over 3000 metres, the alpine world in the heart of New Zealand’s Alps on the South Island, designated as Aoraki/Mt. Cook National Park, is an excellent alpine playground for climbers and skiers. Although there are a few easy paths, most routes are only for experienced mountaineers. The ascent to Mueller Hut is a short but rewarding trip. From there, you’ll get the view of Mt. Cook shown here, accompanied by the constant rumble of ice avalanches thundering down the steep slopes of Mt. Sefton. Tip: Also enjoy the view from the toilet block.
After crossing the rugged volcanic landscape of Tongariro National Park along the famous Tongariro Alpine Crossing, Ketetahi Hut, near the Ketetahi hot springs, is a popular place to rest.
Perched on a sunny terrace on the slopes of the North Crater, this remarkable spot offers breathtaking views across Lake Rotoaira towards Lake Taupo. It remains one of my absolute favorite places in New Zealand and throughout the national parks.
I will never forget the sunsets here, or those unforgettable nights when the distant lights of Taupo and the twinkling stars seemed to merge into a magical universe.
New Zealand has always been a land vast enough to inspire dreams, longings, hopes, and romantic clichés. Its remote location on the far edge of the Pacific has long fueled the image of an untouched paradise or a peaceful escape from the modern world. Yet many New Zealanders – from hardworking farmers to sailors battling wind and waves – are quick to challenge the romanticized vision cherished by so many visitors.
Discover the country that awaits you through breathtaking panoramic photographs of New Zealand’s diverse landscapes. Look beyond the familiar stereotypes and gain an insight into the lives and character of its people, or explore the fascinating culture and traditions of the Māori.
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