Visitor Information

New Zealand does tourism well. Tourism New Zealand (www.newzealand.com) is the main branch, yet almost every city and small town has an i-SITE (www.i-site.org) or visitor center. These centers usually have displays on local history and flora and fauna, local weather conditions, and brochures. The staff often book activities and accommodations. Be advised, though, that i-SITES are businesses: they only promote tour operators that pay to be a part of the local tourist association.

The Department of Conservation has a good Web site (www.doc.govt.nz) and local offices, with in-depth hiking and weather information.