New Zealand named Best Holiday Spot in the World…
New Zealand is the best holiday spot in the world, according to Britain's Daily Telegraph newspaper.
Edging out the stunning Maldive Islands in the Indian Ocean and also South Africa, New Zealand was voted best destination in a poll of 17,000 readers.
Tourism New Zealand chief executive Kevin Bowler said the accolade was a huge honour. "It's great news for us to know that even in these tough economic times, long-haul destinations like New Zealand are obviously still so important and inspiring," he said.
He cited last year's Rugby World Cup and the upcoming world premiere of The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey as highlights on the tourism calendar. Some 179,100 short-term visitors arrived in NZ in October, down from 219,900 visitors in September 2011, according to Statistics New Zealand.
The poll also ranked Air New Zealand the third best long-haul airline. Air New Zealand deputy chief executive Norm Thompson said he was not surprised to see New Zealand top the poll. "The coastline, the cuisine, the people - people have a good experience here," he said.
If you are interested in making a trip down to New Zealand, or you want to find out more about your visa options, contact The Emigration Group today on 01244 321414.