Just the other day the little town of 830 residents of Tekapo, New Zealand made headline news as the possible first ever location of a UNESCO approved “Starlight Reserve” or dark sky park.  The town has converted to low-energy sodium outdoor lamps, downward facing household lights and much more to protect the amazing night sky above.  With virtually no light pollution, the cosmos really comes to life above the town.  Astronomers and stargazers flock from around the world to this site to revel in the amazing views.

But it’s not just Tekapo that attracts visitors from around the world.  New Zealand is a spectacular island country made up primarily of the North and South Islands.  It’s majestic landscapes are incredibly diverse, ranging from the glacial peaks of the Southern Alps like that of Mount Cook (12,320 ft.) to the cavernous Milford Sound, to the picturesque and rugged coastlines of Abel Tasman National Park.  It’s also the land of the kiwi (no, not the fruit – the flightless bird) and the legendary Maori culture. 

Zorbing

Families come to New Zealand to find both relaxation and a new adventure.  From 4×4 Dune Riders exploring orchards, forests and beaches to rolling down the hill in spherical inflated balls called “Zorbs,” bungy jumping and sand-dune surfing, New Zealand has a little something for everyone.  Guided tours will take you to bubbling thermal pools and caves filled with glowworms or even take you kayaking along the coastline while watching native whale pods and dolphins swim by.  It’s an outdoor haven and an utter thrill for a family adventure.

 

GRANDTRAVEL offers a luxury tour to New Zealand for 2009 exclusively for grandparents and grandchildren.  The tour is specifically designed to keep both generations entertained to their fullest while allowing plenty of time for always treasure.  The tour travels to Auckland, Queenstown, Rotorua and Paihia and incorporates exclusive Maori guides and local experts to help navigate your way through this once-in-a-lifetime adventure.

To find out more about Grandtravel’s New Zealand Land of Legend and Adventure, click here…