New Zealand has been awarded yet another accolade, this time being named country of the year by travel television show Getaway, reports etravelblackboard.com.
The show praised the country for its stunning landscapes, rich culture and superb food and wine. The country appeals to both young travellers seeking to experience the raw exuberance of the country's natural vistas, while there is also an impressive and more laidback sophistication to entice older tourists.
Barry Eddington, regional manager of tourism for New Zealand, said: "Both the North and South Islands of New Zealand are distinctly different, boasting beautiful landscapes, adventure, luxury and a wide range of activities and events throughout the year."
The country is especially popular amongst backpackers, with Queenstown in South Island seen as the centre of extreme sports, offering bungee jumping, white-water rafting and go-carting within a stunning mountainous landscape.
New Zealand's profile has soared in recent years, especially since the stunning success of native director Peter Jackson's Lord of the Rings trilogy took advantage of it natural beauty.
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