About New Zealand

New Zealand can be found on the south east side of Australia and is made up of two main islands and a number of smaller islands. The two main islands known as the North Island and South Island are separated by the Cook Strait. The five largest inhabited islands aside from the main 2 are Stewart Island, the Chatham Islands, Great Barrier Island, d'Urville Island and Waiheke Island. The South Island is the largest landmass of New Zealand, and is divided along its length by the Southern Alps. The North Island is less mountainous but is marked by seismic activity. New Zealand is a land of magnificent beauty and contrasts. Nature reigns supreme. Unspoilt coastlines, lush vegetation, amazing wildlife and a moderate climate make it ideal for visitors wanting to enjoy the outdoors or simply relax. The country's dynamic culture has European, Maori, Pacific and Asian influences. The Kiwis, as the New Zealanders are well known as, are a hospitable and friendly bunch. New Zealand features in the top ten of places travellers would like to visit and chances are you've never meet anyone who has been and didn't love the place. In terms of ferry travel, the two main islands are connected by a 55 mile service across the Cook strait. The ferry journey itself is widely acknowledged one of New Zealand's most iconic sightseeing experiences.

About Motuihe Island

Motuihe Island is in the Hauraki Gulf, a large stretch of water to the northeast of Auckland, New Zealand. Defined by a tumultuous human history and enticing beaches, this recreation reserve is one of the country’s greatest escapes, lying just a thirty minute ferry ride from the hustle and bustle of Auckland. With Maori origins, Motuihe became a scarlet fever quarantine in the late 19th Century, a First World War prison camp and, finally, a naval training base during the 1940s, with many fascinating remnants still visible today. Camping remains a popular activity, thanks to the efficient pest eradication and recent flourishing of indigenous trees and plants. A successful conservation programme has resulted in some wonderful bush walks, too, where you may spot some of the rare little spotted kiwi birds, released onto the island in 2009. Motuihe is a short ferry ride from the port of Auckland, with weekly crossings to the island’s north-western tip.