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Visitors
www.images.newzealand.com New Zealand's breathtaking scenery, unique culture, and diverse range of activities and attractions make it an ideal holiday destination for visitors from the Gulf region. Coupled with four-time daily Emirates Airlines services and a visa-free status for GCC nationals it is rapidly emerging as a 'hot' destination for family holidays.
Mr. George Hickton, Chief Executive of Tourism New Zealand is in Dubai this month on his first visit to the region. "Visitor arrivals from the Gulf region to New Zealand have been growing consistently over recent years, we have a very positive relationship with Emirates Airlines, and a number of major wholesalers and travel agents," he says. "We're keen to make sure all Gulf residents know that New Zealand is an easy to get to, year round holiday destination, with a huge amount to offer."
16,000 travellers from the Gulf region visited New Zealand in the last 12 months, attracted by the magnificent landscape, friendly people, and quality tourism experiences. Many of these visitors choose to combine their holiday to New Zealand with near-neighbour Australia, just a three-hour flight away. New Zealand is also a popular honeymoon destination with many romantic retreats and luxury options for those seeking that ‘once-in-a-lifetime’ experience!
For families New Zealand is a particularly ideal holiday choice. New Zealand people are renowned for their friendliness, and child-friendly activities and accommodation abound.
"New Zealand is the ideal destination for families looking to travel independently," says Mr Hickton. “Our road network is world-class and easy to navigate, and with a population of only four million people spread across a country the size of Great Britain, you don't need to worry about traffic jams!"
Distances are also short between most destinations with plenty of activities to make the drive enjoyable for the whole family. "Your self-drive holiday will take you from the mountains to the sea, from forests to volcanoes, or from adrenalin packed activities to a relaxing spa, all within the space of one day" he says.
Christchurch, the largest city in the South Island is a unique blend of historic charm and exciting city life. Christchurch is an elegant, English-inspired city where you will find plenty to do for the family including hot air ballooning, the world-class International Antarctic Centre, an aquarium and superb parks and gardens. You can also take a tram ride around the city centre. Trundle through the tree lined streets, past colourful street side cafes and heritage buildings.
Wellington, New Zealand’s capital city is also home to “Te Papa”, New Zealand's national museum. The museum has been designed to be interactive and can provide hours of fun for all family members. Another favourite family destination is Dunedin in the far-South. This historic city is home to the Cadbury's Chocolate Factory, New Zealand's largest chocolate factory where tastings are a must!
Auckland, New Zealand’s largest city is home to Kelly Tarlton’s Underwater World, an undersea aquarium where you can see sharks and stingrays up-close! If you prefer theme parks, try Rainbow’s End, also in Auckland.
New Zealand's unspoilt landscape is easy to enjoy, and the whole family can get outdoors and enjoy easy walks, horse-riding, whale watching, wildlife experiences and snow-sports. Mr Hickton encourages visitors to get visit some of the smaller regions during their time in New Zealand. "If you are looking for a true New Zealand experience and the chance to interact with New Zealanders, take the time to “get off-the-beaten track" he says.
"You must also take the chance to experience New Zealand's unique Māori culture while in this country" says Mr Hickton. The Māori are the indigenous people of New Zealand and their culture can be experienced in arts, food, sport, and a huge range of tourism experiences. The Māori cultural performance group, Pounamu will be performing at both the Emirates Holiday World and Arabian Travel Market this month. When in New Zealand, Rotorua in the North Island is a great location to begin your discovery of Māori culture.
"New Zealand is truly a world-class holiday destination, with something to offer everyone. We look forward to welcoming many more travellers from the Gulf to New Zealand in years to come" says Mr Hickton.
New Zealand is currently being featured as the “Destination of the Month” at the Dnata Holiday Lounge on Sheikh Zayed Road. | 
