Today’ world is fast moving and relentless. New Zealanders certainly know how to work in this quick paced environment, but they’ve also learned how to relax with family and friends and enjoy what their country has to offer. New Zealand has a natural environment which is the envy of the world, especially after The Lord of the Rings Trilogy was shot here. Also, it was ranked second on the Global Peace Index of 2017 which evaluates domestic crime and any involvement in military conflict internationally. Number One was Iceland.
Enjoying New Zealand’s various water sports and beaches is one of the Kiwis’ favourite pastimes, enjoyed by every generation.
The Ocean
New Zealand has a staggering 9,403 miles of coastline to explore, so those of you who love the ocean, this is the country for you. Around one-third of New Zealand’s population lives in Auckland. Perhaps they’re attracted by the black sand beaches and some of the best waves in the world for surfing. Piha is New Zealand’s equivalent to Bondi in Sydney and even has its own TV show called ‘Piha Rescue’.
New Zealand has 44 marine reserves which will delight divers and snorkelers alike. The famous French marine biologist, Jacques Cousteau, said that one of the best dive sites in the world was Poor Knights Marine Reserve on the Tutukaka Coast. Here divers will experience kelp forests, sand gardens, and massive underwater caves which house an incredible variety of fish and sea creatures.
Explore inaccessible coves and beaches on your kayak or canoe or join one of the many boating/yachting clubs to enjoy everything New Zealand’s coastline has to offer. New Zealand’s coastline draws fishermen from around the globe. North Island’s most common fish are kingfish, snapper and terakihi and South Island’s are grouper, blue cod and trumpeter. Snapper is the fish sought by most, as one fish can weigh up to 10 kgs. The big game fishing season lasts from December to June, where yellowfin tuna, marlin and kingfish can be caught.
Rivers and Inland Water
New Zealand is home to 3,820 lakes, which includes the largest freshwater lake in Oceania, Lake Taupo. Rivers also abound. Visit the braided rivers on South Island, a geological phenomenon quite rare in other parts of the world.
For the brave at heart, experience jet boating, where you race down shallow rivers at over 50 mph, doing 360° turns along the way. This Kiwi invention sorts out the men from the boys. Another adventure for those adrenaline junkies is white water rafting. There are grade 2 to grade 5 rapids in various locations throughout New Zealand. For those who prefer their blood pressure to remain normal, you can always enjoy a quiet day’s fishing on Lake Taupo and have trout for supper.
It doesn’t matter what sort of water activity you enjoy, you’ll find it in New Zealand.
