New Zealand is known as Aotearoa, which means Long White Cloud in Māori, perhaps symbolising its dreamlike landscapes. Situated on the tip of the South Pacific Ocean and close to Antarctica, the country enjoys a range of biomes, usually mild and temperate. The North Island has a subtropical climate similar to most Polynesian nations, with gleaming white beaches, lush forests, and geothermal wonders. The South Island is akin to Patagonia with its dramatic fjords and mountains. Around its perimeter, New Zealand also has some 600 islands, all providing different scenery. Overall, it promises a real-life fantasy adventure.

Wellington, the capital of New Zealand, is located on the North Island. It is a gastronomical paradise with chic cafes and world-class dining options that blend Māori, South Pacific, and international influences. Sample plenty of seafood dishes across coastal towns, especially the Green-Lipped Mussels.

Her sister city, Auckland, is up north. It is home to the iconic Auckland Harbour Bridge and several premier marinas. It is the largest Polynesian city in the world and a gateway to the stunning Coromandel Peninsula.

The Peninsula had been written in myths and legends hundreds of years ago, with the infamous Maui and his fish hook. Geographically, it has several volcanic activities, making it a playground for hot springs, like Hot Water Beach and The Lost Spring. On the Peninsula's eastern side, the Cathedral Cove Marine Reserve, or Te Whanganui-A-Hei, is home to great white beaches surrounded by reefs to explore through diving and snorkelling. Its stunning limestone cliffs against the bright blue waters waving against it offer a one-of-a-kind picture postcard. Nearby beaches of Whitianga, Wharekaho (also known as Simpsons Beach), and Hahei Beach are also top contenders to visit. Just across the bay, the Mercury Islands, or Iles d'Haussez, offers more secluded and relaxing yet equally stunning sceneries, with pine forests, grassy hills, and beaches.

In the Far North region, the Bay of Islands offers a subtropical allure and a network of 144 islands scattered across the northernmost region of the North Island. The historical site of Waitangi, where two of the most critical documents in New Zealand's history were written and signed, the Treaty of Waitangi and the Declaration of Independence of New Zealand. Okahu Island, one of the Bay of Islands, is surrounded by pristine waters, perfect for kayaking and snorkelling. The region also boasts Ninety Mile Beach, an expanse of golden sand renowned for its dramatic sunsets, thrilling sandboarding, and coastal drives.

While the North Island brims with subtropical geothermal nature, the South Island is filled with glacier-carved and high mountainous fjords. Queenstown, the adventure capital of New Zealand, offers skydiving, bungee jumping, and jet boating, all set against the breathtaking backdrop of Lake Wakatipu. The city also serves as the gateway for the famed destination of Milford Sound, which calls for an unparalleled yachting journey through its mystical cascading waters. Several hiking trails are also available for those seeking to reach the top of Mitre Peak, the highest sound point. During winter, swap beachcombing for skiing or snowboarding at the Southern Alps around Queenstown.

For an off-the-beaten-path adventure, visit the odd Moeraki Boulders at Koekohe Beach. At Otago coast of the South Island. These unusually perfect spherical stones are full of folk tales and scientific importance alike. Māoris consider these boulders remains of the ancient canoe of Āraiteuru. Scientists explained that these boulders result from millions of years of erosion and weathering while the islands of New Zealand are still forming. Either way, these boulders are relics of the long past of New Zealand.

As an emerging yachting destination, New Zealand is perfect for those looking for a little bit of everything. Since it has contrasting extremes, from snow-capped mountains and serene fjords to ferocious volcanoes and boiling lakes to magical caves and rolling hills, New Zealand is a country that promises memories to last a lifetime.

<br>If you are interested in yachting in New Zealand, yacht charters are available here.