Undoubtedly, among the things you should come to New Zealand for are its national parks, which occupy the country’s one third. New Zealand’s stunning mountains, forests, rivers, lakes and waterfalls are something you aren’t used to seeing while traveling around Europe and Asia. It is no wonder why director of the world famous “Lord of the Rings” chose this country to shoot his film here – its islands do really look like a wonder land, inhabited with fabulous creatures. There are 14 national parks in New Zealand, but I’ll list only the ones I find most interesting.

Let’s start with the south. The most interesting park of New Zealand, compared to no others is, without any doubts, Fiordland National Park. Its boundless and truly wild territory is full of wonderful gorges and rocks, unusual animals and birds, beautiful and astonishing plants. You can get to the Fiordland by its Milford Road running from Te Anau. The only park that could compete with Fiordland is Kahurangi National Park in the island’s north. The park is an excellent place to get yourself acquainted with wildlife – here you will see impetuous rivers, huge platens, mountain flowers and coastal forests. But don’t be afraid to get lost, since the park is equipped with numerous footpaths and roads which will make your walks safe. Another park in the island’s north is Abel Tasman National Park, with mild climate all year round. The park attracts those fond of beach resorts, as it is famous for its sandy beaches and intricate granite rocks. A travel path on the park’s coast will make your walks easy and pleasant.

If you prefer active rest in the mountains, go to the Southern Alps and walk around the Aoraki Mount Cook National Park, located in the island’s centre. Another spectacular place here is Arthur’s Pass National Park located north from the Mount Cook and lying on a historic path, connecting Canterbury (in the east) and the wild Western shore. Magnificent mountains with steep rocky slopes won’t leave you untouched. Westland/Tai Poutini National Park stretches from the highest peaks of the Southern Alps to the remote western beaches. In the south of the Southern Alps, not far from the coast by the Fiordland border there is a Mount Aspiring National Park. If you want to see the most beautiful lakes in New Zealand, Nelson Lakes National Park stretched along a 102 thousand hectare territory is waiting for you. In addition to various large and small lakes, the park will meet you with its beechwoods, rocky mountains and mountain streams. If you are making a visit to Greumouth or Westport, don’t forget about the Paparoa National Park lying between them. The park presents almost all the ecosystems of New Zealand, from mountain peaks to the coast.

North Island. Egmont national park is easy to reach, that is why this is one of the most visited parks of New Zealand. It is located in the west coast not far from New Plymouth, Inglewood and Opunake. The largest park in the North Island is Te Urewera National Park, located far from the built-up areas. It is huge and difficult to traverse, but still it attracts the most active tourists. Wonderful lakes and forests are filled with the ancient history. Tongariro National Park offers most interesting spots – active volcanos, deserted mountain plateaus and calm lakes. South from the mainland there is a small Stewart Island, 85 % of which is occupied with Rakiura National Park.

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