With its natural environs interspersed with quaint towns and urban sophistication, NZ is a trove of visual vivacity and colourful cultures.

If the world is one's oyster, then New Zealand - with its attractions and activities - is any kid's ultimate wonderland. For vacationing families, it is a funfilled adventure and much more.

Kelly Tarlton's Antarctic Encounter and Underwater World
Although almost a world apart, there is a slice, or rather chunk, of Antarctica in New Zealand. This intriguing ‘geological formation' is found in the city of Auckland, North Island. Dubbed the Antarctic Encounter, this miniature version of the Antarctica faithfully recreates the climate and icy environment of the frozen continent.

Here, explore a life-sized replica hut of intrepid South Pole explorer Captain Robert Falcon Scott and explore ‘Antarctica' on a snowcat (a snowmobile). The highlight of this ‘Antarctic Encounter' is a colony of sub-Antarctic Penguins, which visitors will get to watch from their snowcats as the penguins swim underwater.

Aside from the Antarctic Encounter section, there is also the Underwater World at Kelly Tarlton. Here, come face-to-face with hundreds of sea dwellers who call this two-million-litre tank of ocean water home. Among them are the strong-jawed broadnose sevengill shark and a bronze whaler shark. Other marine life includes moray eels, seahorses, huge crayfish and piranhas.

Must See: The Stingray Bay is home to Phoebe, the largest stingray in Kelly Tarlton's enclosure. Weighing over 200kg and with a wingspan of two metres, Phoebe is a natural crowd favourite.

Puzzling World
If you enjoy a cognitive workout, then you have to stop by Puzzling World's collection of brainteasers. Located in Wanaka Town, South Island, it promises hours of fun for adults and kids alike. The building itself is mind-bending - The Leaning & Tumbling Towers are buildings leaning at precarious angles. Going against the force of gravity is the the Leaning Tower of Wanaka, which balances on one corner at 53 degrees.

The Great Maze and its cavernous 1.5km of expansive passages is a thrilling, meandering muddle for those with time to spare. It takes about an hour to successfully negotiate the network of passageways. Don't worry if you have to give up, though - there are emergency doors along the way.

Must See: The Hologram Hall, Hall of Following

Te Papa Tongarewa - Museum of New Zealand
Stepping into Te Papa is like a history lesson come to life. The national museum, aptly located in the capital city Wellington, North Island, is a window to the country's evolution from its prehistoric past to its modern existence.

Spread out over five floors, visitors will relive the New Zealand story from the shaping of its land to the ethos of its multicultural society. For a start, you can get up close and personal with the native Maoris through authentic depictions of their traditions and living conditions. Exhibits like taonga or Maori treasures and the art and artefacts of eras ago are presented through stories and immersive interactive sessions.

Hands-on learning areas, interactivity and a constant change in programmes make Te Papa a haven for the kids as well.

Must See: Check out the motion simulators for time travel and bungee jumping! The interactive feature, Awesome Forces, re-enacts the powerful geological upheavals that have created the country's landscape.

Taieri Gorge Railway
This deep canyon in South Island beautify New Zealand's longest tourist railway spanning 60km - from the now closed Otago Central Railway through the rugged Taieri River Gorge, up to the town of Middlemarch.

The journey starts off at the Dunedin Railway Station, with special excursion trains running north and occasionally, south on the trunk line of the station. Passengers have a choice of travelling in either renovated vintage 1920s wooden carriages or modern air-conditioned coaches. The tour is livened up by a full commentary, photographic stops and onboard refreshments.

Must See: The train will go across wrought iron viaducts and through tunnels carved by hand more than 100 years ago.

Bay of Islands
European civilisation and Maori culture crossed paths on these islands hundreds of years ago when the first European settlers arrived in New Zealand. This forms the brilliant backdrop for a trip of discovery into another era of the country's colourful history.
Comprising 144 islands and secluded bays rich with marine life like marlin, whales and dolphins, this maritime park in North Island is best enjoyed by boat. The area is the warmest part of New Zealand, averaging 24 deg C in the summer and 16 deg C in the winter.

Must See: Some of the islands are home to picturesque, small towns like Paihia and Russell, where shops and restaurants line the waterfront. Activities like fishing, forest, beach walks, water sports and golf cap the Bay of Islands experience.

Travel Notes
The summer and autumn seasons from December to May are the best times for a visit. If you plan on holidaying in December or January, make advance bookings for accommodation and domestic transport as this is the period when New Zealanders go on their holiday break.

For summer visits, bring sweaters or windcheaters for the cooler evenings or brisk days, especially when travelling to regions in the South Island.

New Zealand is exposed to high levels of ultraviolet radiation and searing sunlight. You may develop severe sunburn even on days when the temperature is low. Wear sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses and protective clothing.

Article used with permission from SPH Magazines.

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