| "Adventures in Nature: New Zealand" suggests
eco-sensitive ways of visiting the country's most appealing
natural areas and features locally owned-and-operated options
(whenever possible). Based on information gathered in New Zealand
while living there for 7 1/2 months, the New Zealand guidebook
describes 71 nature adventures in scattered locations. The book
also suggests the best way to explore each area, and includes
details about geology, plants and animals, as well as tour companies,
outfitters and other services such as shuttles to the trailheads.
Other titles in the series focus on Mexico ("Adventures in Nature:
Mexico"), Alaska, Belize, British Columbia, Caribbean, Costa
Rica, Guatemala, Hawaii, Honduras and Panama.
Another guidebook I really like is "Classic New Zealand Adventures,"
credited to co-authors Kennett, Carlyon, O'Neill, and Mulheron,
published by Compass Star Publications, Ltd. in U.K. Theirs
is an insider book, more macho and funnier than mine; my book
focuses more effort into preparing visitors for the New Zealand
experience. These books are surprisingly different from one
another, even the eco-sensitive perspective is different. See
what you think. "Adventures in Nature: New Zealand," author
Sally McKinney, can be found at Amazon.com or FlyingPig.com.
When I last checked, Classic New Zealand Adventures was still
available at http://www.flyingpig.co.nz.
Other useful web sites include Magic Travellers Network at
http://www.magicbus.co.nz/intro.htm
and Kiwi Experience at http://www.kiwiexperience.com/
Both companies offer bus transportation around the country,
including stops at national parks and scenic reserves. Unlike
regular buses, these buses operate only during the day, so you
don't miss any scenery, then deliver you to your hostel at night.
Meal stops are often at good cafes, or near picnic tables. Other
stops are made so passengers can take photographs, or hike through
a scenic gorge, or buy fresh food from a farm market.
FOCUS ON NEW ZEALAND ECOTOURISM INDEX
New Zealand Natural History
- The Focus Has Always Been Natural History
New
Zealand Tourism Q&A
- What is nature tourism in New Zealand? What are the bioregions?
Who are the conservationists? What's at stake? Which New Zealanders
make nature tourism a priority?
Places
- New Zealand's North Island: The Tree House
- South Island: Awaroa Lodge and Cafe
- South Island: Arthur's Pass Wilderness Lodge
Helpful
New Zealand Books and Web Sites
Recommended reading
Helpful
New Zealand Books and Web Sites
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