This prosperous Pacific nation - not much larger than Britain - has a population of only 4.3 million. Among its wild, deserted landscapes, it boasts sweeping beaches, ancient forests, glacier-carved mountains and hot springs, attracting adventure tourism from white water rafting to rock climbing and bungee jumping. The culture of the Maori is an important aspect of New Zealand’s identity, with traditional arts and customs still kept alive 1000 years on from the arrival of these Polynesian people to the islands.
