Auf den Spuren von "Lord of the Rings" in Neuseeland

About the destination: Auckland is the largest metropolitan area in both Polynesia and New Zealand and a vibrant city with multicultural influence. It is located between two natural harbours, the Waitemata Harbour and the Manukau Harbour and it is dubbed the City of Sails, since it has the highest number of boats per capita in the world. In the city center, there are many galleries, museums, theatres, trendy bars, and top class restaurants which offer an extensive range of cuisine. The Skytower dominates the city’s skyline and offers a spectacular view of the city. Queen Street, the commercial hub area, starts at Waitemata Harbour and runs for nearly three kilometres in a virtual straight line. From the city centre you can walk to the Auckland Domain and the Museum, Albert Park, Parnell, a lovely historic precinct, and up to Newmarket with its many shops. From there it is not far to Mt. Eden and its impressive crater, and to Cornwall Park which is at the foot of the famous One Tree Hill. One Tree Hill, an extinct volcano cone and ancient Maori settlement offers great panoramic views of this sprawling city. Cosmopolitan and charming, Auckland is easily accessible, beautiful, and with plenty to do. It certainly is New Zealand's most vibrant city.

About the destination: Wellington is the capital of New Zealand. Wellington is a compact city as it is nestled between the magnificent Wellington Harbour and surrounding green hills. Wellington is a culturally enriched city with a high emphasis on the arts and it is considered the cultural hub of New Zealand. The proximity to the Pacific Ocean and the stormy Cook Strait is the reason why Wellington is dubbed the Windy City. The town itself is quite compact with most things to see within easy reach. The most important attraction in Wellington is the beautifully refurbished Parliament Buildings, located in the historic suburb of Thorndon. The complex is made up of 3 architecturally distinctive buildings: the Edwardian neo-classical Parliament House, the Victorian Gothic Parliamentary Library and the unique 1970’s style Beehive building, considered the city’s main landmark. Nearby the Parliament Buildings, visitors will find lots of good shops, cafés, Te Papa Museum and Courtenay Place for entertainment. Not too far away are the Ferry terminals and the Caketin, Wellington Stadium. Providing landscapes full of beaches, mountains, old Victorian townhouses, good lookout points, trendy clubs, parliament buildings, music, art, and so much more, Wellington really is a pleasant and beautiful destination.

About the destination: "Christchurch is the largest city in the South Island of New Zealand, and the country's third-most populous urban area. It lies one third of the way down the South Island's east coast, just north of Banks Peninsula. MAIN TOURIST ATTRACTIONS • Christchurch Cathedral built between 1864 and 1904 in Cathedral Square and its replacement ""Cardboard Cathedral"", at 234 Hereford Street, an easy walk North West of its beloved forebear • Arts Centre. Gothic Revival stonework of former University campus. However, the beauty and historical significance of these building can still be appreciated by viewing them from surrounding streets such as Worcester Boulevard and Hereford Street and the excellent Canterbury Cheesemongers still operates from a modern building within its precincts. • Botanic Gardens. • Canterbury Museum. Maori and natural history sections, Antarctic exploration display, and visiting exhibitions. • Ferrymead Heritage Park. A recreated Edwardian township and museum with horse and carriage, tram and train rides. Due to the voluntary nature of the historical societies managing Ferrymead, not all attractions may be running at all times. • International Antarctic Centre. A world-class Antarctic experience with simulated polar weather, Hagglund All-Terrain Vehicle ride, penguins, extensive exhibits about Antarctic science missions, cafe and gift shop. • Orana Wildlife Park. New Zealand's largest wildlife sanctuary and conservation project featuring endangered animals from around the world. The park's design minimises fences and cages in favor of natural boundaries and habitats. • Willowbank Wildlife Reserve • Yaldhurst Museum. Mostly interesting for its collection of over 150 classic and vintage vehicles. • Riccarton Bush. The last remaining forest remnant on the Canterbury plains is in Christchurch city. If your time is limited in NZ, this is a great way to experience an example of the country's native forests. • Earthquake Tourism Tours of affected sites both inside and outside the ""red zone"" are available. Visitors can also make their own way to sites of particular significance such as Christchurch Cathedral; the Catholic Basilica and the construction site of the Cardboard Cathedral."