GYMNÁZIUM JOZEFA GREGORA TAJOVSKÉHO

BY ANTIPODES

(WORLD UPSIDE-DOWN)

Banská Bystrica Barbara Moravčíková

Školský rok 3.C

2008/2009

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Contents

Introduction........................................................................................................................................2

1. Australia

1.1. Factfile...................................................................................................................................3

1.2. Symbols..................................................................................................................................4

1.2.1.Official symbols............................................................................................................41.2.1.1. Flag of Australia............................................................................................41.2.1.2. National anthem..........................................................................................41.2.1.3. Coat of arms.................................................................................................51.2.1.4. Floral emblem..............................................................................................51.2.1.5. National gemstone.......................................................................................5

1.2.2.Unofficial emblems.......................................................................................................61.2.2.1. The Sydney Opera House.............................................................................61.2.2.2. Uluru – Ayers Rock.......................................................................................61.2.2.3. Akubra hat....................................................................................................71.2.2.4. Vegemite......................................................................................................71.2.2.5. Kangaroo......................................................................................................71.2.2.6. Emu..............................................................................................................8

1.3. History...................................................................................................................................9

1.4. Aborigines – the native Australians.....................................................................................10

1.5. Culture.................................................................................................................................11

1.6. Fauna und flora....................................................................................................................12

1.7. Places of interests, attractions............................................................................................13

1.8. Celebrities............................................................................................................................19

2. New Zealand..............................................................................................................................202.1. Factfile.................................................................................................................................2

02.2. Symbols................................................................................................................................2

12.2.1.Flag of New Zealand...................................................................................................212.2.2.National anthem.........................................................................................................212.2.3.Coat of arms...............................................................................................................212.2.4.Waintaingi day............................................................................................................222.2.5.Anzac day...............................................................................................................,,,,,22

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2.3. Maori...................................................................................................................................23

2.4. Fauna and flora....................................................................................................................24

2.5. Places of interests, attractions............................................................................................25

2.6. Celebrities............................................................................................................................32

2.7. Interesting facts about New Zealand...................................................................................33

Conclusion........................................................................................................................................36Source...............................................................................................................................................37

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Introductions

I have chosen these two beautiful countries because are really beautiful and there are no so much

things that are known about these countries. Australia and New Zealand are countries of many

natural wonders and interesting history. My intention is to tell you something about their culture,

habits and lifestyle. I want to draw on you places which you should visit if you get there.

I want tell you something about their unique flora and rare animals which live no else in the

world. They are countries of surfers, sandy beaches, sharks, kangaroos, kiwis, barbeque, stem

holes and many natural parks. I hope you come to know something knew and interesting for you.

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1. AUSTRALIA

1.1. Factfile

OFFICIAL NAME: Commonwealth of Australia

FORM OF GOVERNMENT: Federal constitutional monarchy with a parliamentary system

of government

Monarch: Queen Elizabeth II.

Governor-General: Quentin Bryce

Prime Minister: Kevin Rudd

States and territories: New South Wales, Queensland, South Australia, Tasmania, Victoria,

Western Australia, Northern Territory, Australian Capital Territory

CAPITAL: Canberra

AREA: 7,686,850 km2

POPULATION: 21,714,000

OFFICIAL LANGUAGE: English

OTHER LANGUAGES: Indigenous languages, Italian, Greek

LITERACY RATE: 99%

RELIGIONS: Roman Catholic 27%, Anglican 22%, other Christian 22%, other 12,4%, none 16,6%

ETHNIC GROUPS: European 95%, Asian 4%, other (including Aboriginals) 1%

CURRENCY: Australian dollar

ECONOMY: Services 78%, industry 16%, agriculture 6%

TIME ZONE: GMT + 10 hours

DRIVES: on the left

HIGHEST POINT: Mt. Kosciuzsko 2,229 m

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1.2. Symbols

1.2.1. Official symbols

1.2.1.1. Flag of Australia

The Australian National Flag is Australia’s foremost national symbol. It was first flown in

1901 and has become an expression of Australian identity and pride. The Australian National Flag

flies over the federal and state parliaments. The flag is paraded by our defence forces and

displayed around the country at sporting events and by service organisations, schools, community

groups and private citizens.

The Australian National Flag has three elements on a blue background: the Union Jack, the

Commonwealth Star and the Southern Cross. The Union Jack in the upper left corner (or canton)

acknowledges the history of British settlement. Below the Union Jack is a white Commonwealth

or Federation star. It has seven points representing the unity of the six states and the territories of

the Commonwealth of Australia. The star is also featured on the Commonwealth Coat of Arms.

The Southern Cross is shown on the fly of the flag in white. This constellation of five stars can be

seen only from the southern hemisphere and is a reminder of Australia’s geography.

1.2.1.2. National anthem

In 1973 a competition was held for a distinctively Australian national anthem. The

Australian National Anthem Quest was run in two stages by the Australia Council for the Arts. The

first stage for lyrics attracted more than 1400 entries. The second stage for music received 1200

entries. A prize of $5,000 was offered for each stage. The judges decided the entries did not meet

the high standards of Australia’s traditional songs ‘Advance Australia Fair’, ‘Waltzing Matilda’ and

‘Song of Australia’. The Australia Council for the Arts recommended the final choice for the

national anthem should be made from these three songs. The Bureau of Statistics ran a national

poll of 60 000 people. ‘Advance Australia Fair’ was favoured by 51.4 per cent of the people

followed by ‘Waltzing Matilda’ (19.6 per cent). The original composition of ‘Advance Australia Fair’

was written by Peter Dodds McCormick in 1878 and consisted of four verses. In 1974 ‘Advance

Australia Fair’ was adopted as the Australian National Anthem; however in 1976 ‘God Save The

Queen’ was reinstated. In 1977 the Australian Electoral Office conducted a poll for the national

anthem tune in conjunction with a referendum. The tune ‘Advance Australia Fair’ was the

preferred option. In 1981 the National Australia Day Council recommended that the Australian

National Anthem consist of two verses of ‘Advance Australia Fair ‘with some modification.

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1.2.1.3. Coat of arms

The Commonwealth Coat of Arms is the formal symbol of the Commonwealth of Australia

that signifies Commonwealth authority and ownership. The Commonwealth Coat of Arms is used

by Australian Government departments and agencies, statutory and non-statutory authorities,

the Parliament and Commonwealth courts and tribunals.

1.2.1.4. Floral emblem

Australia’s national floral emblem is the golden wattle (Acacia pycnantha Benth.). When

in flower, the golden wattle displays the national colours, green and gold. As one species of a

large genus of flora growing across Australia, the golden wattle is a symbol of unity. Wattle is

ideally suited to withstand Australia’s droughts, winds and bushfires. The resilience of wattle

represents the spirit of the Australian people. In recent times, the golden wattle has been used as

a symbol of remembrance and reflection. On national days of mourning, for example, Australians

are invited to wear a sprig of wattle. The golden wattle has been used in the design of Australian

stamps and many awards in the Australian honours system. A single wattle flower is the emblem

of the Order of Australia.

National Wattle Day

The first day of September is National Wattle Day. It builds on a long unofficial tradition of

wearing the wattle blossom on 1 September. The day was introduced in 1913 by an association

called the Wattle Day League and formally recognised on 23 June 1992. Australians can celebrate

their floral heritage each Wattle Day by planting wattles.

1.2.1.5. National gemstone

Australia’s national gemstone is the opal, a stone famous across the world for its brilliant

colours. In Indigenous stories, a rainbow created the colours of the opal when it touched the

earth. Opal, also known to Indigenous people as the fire of the desert, is a powerful symbol of

Australia’s arid interior. Australia is home to the world’s highest quality, precious opal. The most

famous is black opal from Lightning Ridge in New South Wales. Black opal has a colour play of red,

green, blue, violet, magenta or yellow against a dark background.

Australia’s opal fields are bigger than those found in the rest of the world combined. Opal

production was worth $71.4 million to Australia in 2003 and supports many communities in South

Australia, New South Wales and Queensland. Australian opals are valued for their stability as well

as brilliance. Opals from other countries are associated with volcanic rock and have high water

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content and tend to crack or craze during cutting or polishing, or during hot or dry conditions.

Australia’s precious opals include black opal, white opal, crystal opal, fire opal and boulder opal.

1.2.2. Unofficial emblems

1.2.2.1. The Sydney Opera House

The Sydney Opera House is one of the most recognisable buildings of the modern world.

Open since 1973, it has come to represent ‘Australia’. The Opera House, with a roof evocative of a

ship at full sail, was designed by renowned Danish architect Jørn Utzon.

In the late 1950s the New South Wales Government established an appeal fund to finance

the construction of the Sydney Opera House and conducted a competition for its design. Utzon’s

design was chosen although it was beyond the capabilities of engineering of the time. Utzon then

spent a couple of years reworking the design and it was 1961 before he had solved the problem of

how to build the distinguishing feature – the ‘sails’ of the roof.

It is these ‘sails’ that have made the Opera House so recognisable. Over the more than

thirty years since the Opera House was opened by Queen Elizabeth II. On 20 October 1973,

thousands of theatre and opera productions have been staged in the building and on the steps

outside, often in front of enormous crowds. Australians and international visitors alike have

walked up the steps of the building for views of Sydney harbour and the equally famous Sydney

Harbour Bridge.

1.2.2.2. Uluru – Ayers Rock

Uluru is one of Australia’s most recognisable natural icons. Located in the Uluru-Kata Tjuta

National Park in the Northern Territory, Uluru is a unique and beautiful place that is of spiritual

and cultural significance to the traditional indigenous landowners, the Anangu, who lead walking

tours to inform visitors about the local flora and fauna, bush foods and the Aboriginal dreamtime

stories of the area.

The world-renowned sandstone formation stands 348 m high with most of its bulk below

the ground, and measures 9.4 km in circumference. Uluru is notable for appearing to change

colour as the different light strikes it at different times of the day and year, with sunset a

particularly remarkable sight when it briefly glows red. Although rainfall is uncommon in this

semiarid area, during wet periods the rock acquires a silvery-grey colour, with streaks of black

algae forming on the areas that serve as channels for water flow.

1.2.2.3. Akubra hat

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The Akubra captures Australia like no other item of clothing. Ubiquitous in the outback,

the Akubra is worn by people from all walks of life, from the diggers with their slouch hats in two

world wars to the official uniform of Australian athletes at international sporting events. Whether

suave and respectable or worn and battered, Akubra hats are can be seen all over Australia.

Made of treated rabbit fur, Akubras today are manufactured in much the same way as

they were when production began at Akubra Hats more than 100 years ago. Established in 1905,

Akubra Hats still employs descendants of one of the company’s original hat makers.

The trademark name ‘Akubra’, which is an Aboriginal word for head covering, only came

into use in 1912 but the hat’s precursor was first made in Tasmania in the 1870s. This was only a

few years after 24 English rabbits were released in Geelong, Victoria, in 1859. The national hat

industry that produces the Akubra depends on the descendants of those rabbits.

For over a century the Akubra has protected millions of Australians against the harsh sun,

wind and driving rain and will continue to hold an emblematic place in Australian history and

culture.

1.2.2.4. Vegemite

Many Australians love Vegemite – it is a unique and well-loved icon. This strange looking

black spread, made by blending brewer’s yeasts, is one of the richest known sources of B complex

vitamins. Australians traditionally eat Vegemite spread thinly on buttered toast, sandwiches and

biscuits.

Vegemite was invented by food technologists at the Fred Walker Company in 1923. Fred

Walker later sold his business to Kraft and passed on the secret recipe.

This secret recipe is used to this day and Vegemite tastes as it did when it was first

invented and continues to be loved by many Australians of all ages. The love is not universal

however, as some Australians, and nearly all overseas visitors, strongly dislike the very strong and

salty taste. Despite this, Vegemite is arguably the ‘taste of Australia’ and it is no surprise that

Australians travelling overseas are known to pack a jar or two of Vegemite to sustain them while

out of Australia.

1.2.2.5. Kangaroos

Kangaroos are the rifest animals in Australia. There are more than 50 kinds of kangaroos.

Kangaroo is also in Australian coat of arms. Really interesting is their boxing ability. They box

really well. Kangaroos are the only large animals to use hopping as a means of locomotion. The

comfortable hopping speed for Red Kangaroo is about 20–25 km/h, but speeds of up to 70 km/h

can be attained, over short distances, while it can sustain a speed of 40 km/h for nearly two

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kilometres. This fast and energy-efficient method of travel has evolved because of the need to

regularly cover large distances in search of food and water, rather than the need to escape

predators. Because of its long feet, it cannot walk correctly. To move at slow speeds, it uses its tail

to form a tripod with its two forelimbs. It then raises its hind feet forward, in a form of locomotion

called “crawl-walking.” The average life expectancy of a kangaroo is about 4–6 years. Many

Australians keep kangaroos in their gardens for pleasure. Cushiony little kangaroo is decoration of

Australian’s flats. Kangaroos are also victims of traffic accidents. They jump over the road

especially through the night. Then, in the morning you can see many murdered kangaroos near

the road which are eaten by beautiful eagles.

1.2.2.6. Emu

The emu is the largest bird native in Australia. It is also the second-largest extant bird in

the world by height, after the ostrich. He can’t fly. Emu is common over most of mainland

Australia, although it avoids heavily populated areas, dense forest and arid areas. [Emus can travel

great distances at a fast, economical trot and, if necessary, can sprint at 50 km/h for some

distance at a time. They are nomadic and may travel long distances to find food; they feed on a

variety of plants and insects.

1.3. History

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Australia is in the southern hemisphere and it is the world’s smallest continent. Most of it

consists of low plateaus, and almost one-third is desert. Backbone of Australia is the Australian

Alps.

Australia’s Aboriginal people have arrived here by boat from South East Asia during the

last Ice Age, at least 50,000 years ago. At the time of European discovery and settlement, up to

one million Aboriginal people lived across the continent as hunters and gatherers.

A number of European explorers sailed the coast of Australia, then known as New

Holland, in 17th century. However it wasn’t until 1770 that Captain James Cook chartered the east

coast and claimed it for Britain. The new colony was used to export convicts. Almost each modern

Australian’s ancestor was convict.

While free settlers began to flow, life for prisoners was harsh. Women were outnumbered

five to one and lived under constant threat of sexual exploitation. Male re-offenders were brutally

flogged and could be hung for crimes as petty as stealing. The Aboriginal people displaced by the

new settlement suffered even more. The dispossessions of land and illness and death from

introduced diseases disrupted traditional lifestyle and practices.

Gold was discovered in New South Wales and central Victoria in 1851, luring thousands of

young men and some adventurous young women from the colonies. They were joined by boat

loads of prospectors from China and a chaotic carnival of entertainers, publicans, illicit liquor-

sellers,, prostitutes and quacks from across the world. Despite the violence on goldfields, the

wealth from gold and wool brought immense investment to Melbourne and Sydney and by the

1880s they were stylish modern cities.

Australia’s six states became a nation under a single constitution on 1 January 1901.

Today Australia is home to people from more than 200 countries.

1.4. Aborigines – the native Australians10

Aborigines probably came to Australia from Indonesia 50,000 years ago. The oldest

skeleton found in Australia was at Lake Mungo in New South Wales. Archaeologists believe it is

38,000 years old and it carried traces of ceremonial paint.

Aborigines were nomads. Originally, they didn’t have a sense of land ownership, although

Aboriginal children were taught from an early age that they belonged to the land and must

respect tribal boundaries. Tribes returned to particular places to bury their dead. Some places,

like Uluru were sacred because they were associated with the ‘Dreamtime‘, the time when the

earth was formed and cycles of life and nature were begun.

Aboriginal legends, songs and dances tell of powerful spirits who created the land and

people during the Dreamtime. There was no written Aboriginal language and, in fact, most of the

600 tribes spoke different dialects and rarely met expect on ceremonial occasions. The tradition of

the Dreamtime, however, united the people. Rock paintings showing this creation period can be

found all over the country. Some of the most spectacular and best preserved can be seen at rock

galleries in Kakadu National Park and other parts of northern Australia.

Interesting is it was Aborigines who invented boomerang. They used it as weapon to

hunting animals.

The arrival of white people gradually brought an end to the traditional Aboriginal way of

life. The ‘new‘Australians began to build and settle on Aborigine tribal lends. Today, most

Aborigines live in cities and towns or in isolated settlements near tribal lands. Few continue the

old nomadic way of life.

The recent years, white Australians have become more sensitive to the Aborigines‘

situation. The result has been an increase in health and educational services, greater recognition

of Aboriginal land rights and a growing appreciation of Aboriginal culture. Any museums now

display Aboriginal art, musical Instruments and artefacts.

1.5. Culture

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Australian culture is founded on stories of battlers, bushrangers and brave soldiers. Of

sporting heroes, working heroes and plucky migrants. Today Australia is also defines itself by its

Aboriginal heritage, vibrant mix of cultures, innovative ideas and a thriving arts scene.

Australians believe in mat ship and a ‘fair go’ and have a strong affection for the underdog

of ‘battler’. Australia’s most famous bushranger Ned Kelly protested against the poverty and

injustice of a British class system shipped here along with the convicts. This flawed hero’s fight for

‘justice and liberty’ and ‘innocent people’ has been embraced as part of the national culture.

It’s no secret that Australians are sports mad. With more then 120 national and thousands

of local, regional and state sporting organizations. The number one watched sport is Australian

Rules Football with its high kicks and balletic leaps. On the other side the brute force and tackling

tactics have National Rugby League. Australia is a nation of swimmers and Olympic medal attests

to their performance in the pool. In summer they watch Australian cricket team or tennis

Australian open. Football is a growth sport, they draw world-class surfers from the Bells Beach

Surf Classic and on Boxing Day crowds gather to watch the boats sail out of Sydney Harbour to

Hobart Yacht Race. In Melbourne is situated famous horse race – the Melbourne Cup an Formula

One Grand Prix.

More than 80% of Australians living within 50 km of the coast, the beach has become an

integral part of their famous laid-back lifestyle. They love surfing, beach cricket, barbeque and

their sandy shores. They go to beach to enjoy the sun and surf or sail, parasail, fish, snorkel, scuba

dive and beach comb. It’s where they socialize and play sport, relax and enjoy romance. It’s also

the site for celebration. On New Year’s Eve, revelers dance in the sand and watch fireworks at

Manly and Bondi beaches in Sydney. Australia most famous beaches – Bondi and Manly in Sydney,

St Kilda in Melbourne, Surfers Paradise on the Queensland Gold Coast, Cottesloe in Perth and

Glenelg in Adelaide – attracts locals as well as international tourists.

Their rich cultural diversity is reflected in their food. You’ll find European flavors, the

tantalising spices of Asia, Africa and the Middle East, Thai takeaway, dine out on perfect Italian

pasta, do tapas in their city’s Spanish strips and feast on dumplings in Chinatown.

You can also embrace their melting pot of cultures in the many colorful festivals. See

samba and capoeira at Bondi’s Brazilian South American Festival, dance behind the dragon parade

during Chinese New Year or stroll through streets transformed onto a lively pizza during the

annual Italian celebrations.

1.6. Fauna and flora

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Australia is famous for it’s fauna and flora. There lives animals which we can’t find no else

in the world. It is the world of animals with which we could met 60,000,000 years ago on other

continents.

The most common trees are the gums (Eucalyptus) and wattles (Acacia).

Most native mammals are kangaroos, koala bears, wombats, possums. The platypus and

the echidna – which lay eggs and suckle their young, are unique. Other rare animals are wallaroo,

Dingoes, flying foxes, anteater, black swans, giant lizards and kiwi. There are also about 400

species of reptile like crocodiles, turtles, frilled lizards, many snakes (a lot of kinds of python) and

Boyds Forest dragon. There are some 700 species of bird including parrots, eagles, owls, pelicans,

cassowary and penguins. From sea animals there lives whales, dolphins, great white sharks,

Australian fur seals, saw fish, giant cuttlefish....

1.6. Places of interests, attractions13

National parks

There are more than 500 national parks and reservations in Australia. Some of them are placed on

the UNESCO World Heritage List. The oldest is Royal Park, which is the second oldest national park

in the world too. It is situated near Sydney. One of the most unique is Eungelaa on the west coast

of Australia. The most beautiful and most visited is national park Wilsons Promontory which lies

between Sydney and Melbourne. Interesting are also Croajingolong, Gippsland, Coorong, Myall

Lakes, Ku-ring-gai, Chase, Kitchega, etc.

Kakadu national park

Kakadu National Park is located in the Northern Territory of Australia. The name Kakadu

comes from the mispronunciation of ‘Gagudju’ which is the name of an Aboriginal language

spoken in the northern part of the Park. Kakadu is ecologically and biologically diverse. Aboriginal

people have occupied the Kakadu area continuously for at least 40,000 years. Kakadu National

Park is renowned for the richness of its Aboriginal cultural sites. There are more than 5,000

recorded art sites illustrating Aboriginal culture over thousands of years. The archaeological sites

demonstrate Aboriginal occupation for at least 20,000 and possibly up to 40,000 years. The

cultural and natural values of Kakadu National Park were recognised internationally when the

Park was placed on the UNESCO World Heritage List.

About half of the land in Kakadu is Aboriginal land under the Aboriginal Land Rights

(Northern Territory) Act 1976 and most of the remaining land is currently under claim by

Aboriginal people. The areas of the Park that are owned by Aboriginal people are leased by the

traditional owners to the Director of National Parks to be managed as a national park. The

remaining area is Commonwealth land vested under the Director of National Parks.

The Aboriginal traditional owners of the Park are descendants of various clan groups from

the Kakadu area and have longstanding affiliations with this country. Their lifestyle has changed in

recent years, but their traditional customs and beliefs remain very important. About 500

Aboriginal people live in the Park; many of them are traditional owners. All of Kakadu is jointly

managed by Aboriginal traditional owners and the Australian Government’s Department of the

Environment and Water Resources through a division known as Parks Australia.

The Devils Marbles

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In the creation story of the Dreaming, the Rainbow Serpent fashioned the earth and then

returned to a spot east of the Kimberleys at a place where the rainbow meets the earth. The

Rainbow Serpent's eggs fossilised and became what non-Aborigines now call the Devils Marbles.

The Aborigines know them as Karlukarlu.

Because of this, the Devils Marbles Conservation Reserve is a spiritually significant and

sacred site to the Aborigines.

The Olgas – Kata Tjuta

The Olgas are located only 48 kilometres from Ayres Rock. The name for the Olgas is Kata

Tjuta which means the place of many heads.

You can stroll through the Valley of the Winds or Olga Gorge and catch a glimpse of some

of the captivating creatures of the region, such as the Thorny Devil.

The Sunset at the Olgas is spectacular, with dusky blues and purples to fierce oranges and

reds that light up the sky. So if you can spend a few nights here so you can really witness the

magnificent colours of the sunrise and sunset.

Alice Springs and surround

Stay in the famous outback town of Alice Springs, which sits in Australia’s red heart just 200

kilometres south of its geographic centre. From here you can bushwalk; four wheels drive or join a

camel trek across the rolling sand dunes of the Simpson Desert. Trek through Ormiston Gorge and

Pound, visit breathtaking Glen Helen Gorge and see rock wallabies at Simpsons Gap, all in the

nearby East and West MacDonnell Ranges. Bike ride to Simpsons Gap at dawn, discover different

Aboriginal art styles along the Tanami Track and explore the rock art, artefacts and ceremonial

sites near the small Aboriginal community of St Teresa.

Cairns and the Great Barrier Reef

Base yourself in cosmopolitan Cairns and take a day trip to the World Heritage-listed

Great Barrier Reef. Snorkel or dive in warm tropical water with rainbow coloured coral, sponges

and fish. Or head to the magical, primeval Daintree Rainforest. Here you can cruise the Daintree

River past birds, animals and crocodiles or cross it on a ferry to the four wheel drive country of

Cape Tribulation. See a performance by the world-famous Aboriginal dance theatre Tjapukai,

then ride the Kuranda Scenic Railway to the rainforest village of Kuranda. Fish from tranquil

Mission Beach, where the rainforest meets the reef, or sip cocktails in the vibrant resort town of

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Port Douglas. Pamper yourself in a Palm Cove spa or camp, fish and four wheel drive in the

remote wilderness of Cape York Peninsula. Explore the world's longest lava tube system in

Undara Volcanic National Park and a 1930s Spanish-inspired castle in Paronella Park.

Brisbane

Bike ride in the City Botanic Gardens or cruise down the Brisbane River spotting pelicans. Laze

next to the gardens and lagoons of South Bank or explore Fortitude Valley’s cafes and boutique

shops. For an adrenalin-pumping view of the city and its surrounds, you can do a bridge climb,

abseil down Kangaroo Point Cliffs or coast over in a hot air balloon. On the clear waters and

islands of nearby Moreton Bay, you can fish, boat, feed wild dolphins and toboggan down the

world’s tallest sand dunes.

Gold Coast

Frolic on the sand or in the world-class nightclubs of Surfers Paradise. Then trek the World

Heritage-listed rainforest of the Gold Coast hinterland, where you can swim in crystal-clear rock

pools, explore rainforest retreats like Mount Tamborine and see Australia’s largest glow-worm

colony. Of course, you can’t miss the Gold Coast’s famous themed attractions. See dolphin and

sea lion shows at Sea World, ride the world’s tallest and fastest thrill rides at Dreamworld or jump

in a giant wavepool at Wet 'n' Wild Water Park.

Sydney

Soak up the city’s gorgeous harbour, seductive outdoor lifestyle and great natural beauty. Kayak

under the Sydney Harbour Bridge or wave at the Opera House as you ride a ferry across the

harbour to Manly. Learn to surf at Bondi Beach or swim in the calm waters of Coogee. Lose

yourself in the cobblestone cul-de-sacs of The Rocks or in the markets, boutiques, cafes and pubs

of Paddington. As well as a world-famous harbour and more than 70 sparkling beaches, Sydney

offers fabulous food, festivals and 24-7 fun. You’ll soon agree there’s no place in the world like

Sydney.

Sydney surrounds

Listen to jazz amongst the vines in the Hunter Valley, bush walk in the Blue Mountains or float

down the Hawkesbury River on a houseboat. Watch dolphins from Port Stephens and Forster and

lose yourself in the World Heritage-listed wilderness of Barrington Tops. Escape to the hills,

forests, valleys and heritage villages of the Southern Highlands. Surf on the Central Coast or on

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the South Coast, where you can also see Kiama’s famous blowhole. These mountains, rivers,

beaches, parks and rich tablelands are just a short drive from Sydney’s fringes.

Snowy Mountains

Hit Australia’s highest ski slopes at Charlotte Pass and climb Mt Kosciuszko, Australia’s tallest

peak. At the top you’ll find a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve with 20 species of plants found nowhere

else in the world. In winter, carve up the snow at fields such as Thredbo and Perisher Blue. In

summer, take in the trout-filled streams and wildflower-coated plains going cycling, caving,

rafting, kayaking, four wheel driving, horse riding and hiking. Whatever the season, the Snowy

Mountains has endless opportunities for outdoor adventure.

Melbourne

Sitting on the Yarra River at Port Phillip Bay, this stylish, vibrant city is a maze of hidden laneways,

opulent bars, exclusive restaurants and off-the-beaten-track boutiques. Visit Federation Square,

the city’s landmark cultural space, and enjoy a sunset beer on the St Kilda promenade. Shop till

you drop on funky Brunswick Street or upmarket Chapel Street. Wander Southbank’s cafes,

bistros and bars and get a world tour of cuisines in Carlton, Richmond and Fitzroy. Take an

Aboriginal Heritage Walk through the Royal Botanic Gardens and cheer with a capacity crowd at

the Melbourne Cricket Ground.

Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges

Stay in Yarra Glen, the heart of the food and wine region and tour the acclaimed wineries of the

Yarra Valley. Trek through the tall forests of the Dandenong Ranges National Park. You can stop

amidst the fairytale mists of Sherbrooke Forest or take the Puffing Billy Steam Railway through

the villages of Belgrave, Gembrook and Emerald. Visit the famous Healesville wildlife sanctuary

and wander the gardens, waterfalls and forest of Marysville, also a gateway to the Lake Mountain

ski fields.

Great Ocean Road

Discover beaches, bushland and kangaroos at Anglesea and see epic waves crash on Bells Beach,

near the surfing town of Torquay. Swim, surf and fish in Lorne and walk through the waterfalls

and lush rainforest of the nearby Otway Ranges. You can stand on Shipwreck Coast and marvel at

the craggy limestone stacks of the Twelve Apostles in Port Campbell National Park. Sea kayak and

surf in idyllic Apollo Bay and watch whales from Warrnambool. You’ll find fishing and an annual

folk festival in historic Port Fairy. 17

High Country

Ski or snowboard at Mount Hotham, Australia’s powder capital, or on the steep slopes of the

winter playground of Falls Creek. Tackle winter sports, biking or four wheel driving at Mount

Buller and marvel at Mount Buffalo’s unique granite beauty. Visit wineries fringed by gum trees in

Rutherglen and see the courthouse where Ned Kelly stood trial in the historic gold rush town of

Beechworth. Go fishing, houseboating and waterskiing at Lake Eildon. Or base yourself in Bright

for walking, cycling and easy access to snowfields and gourmet delights.

The Murray

Visit the home of paddle-steamers in Echuca-Moama and explore the pioneer history of Swan

Hill. Indulge in fine food and wine amongst the citrus groves and vineyards of the vibrant outback

oasis of Mildura. In the twin river towns of Yarrawonga-Mulwala, you can camp, bushwalk, play a

round of golf, or fish and water ski on the local lakes and rivers.

Adelaide

Admire the elegant colonial architecture and browse museums and libraries along North Terrace.

Shop up a storm at Rundle Mall or sample the fresh produce from Adelaide Central Market.

Embrace the alfresco ambience of Rundle Street in the East End or explore the exotic, bustling

foodhalls of Chinatown. Swim with dolphins in vibrant Glenelg and fish from the jetty in Henley.

Bike ride in Elder Park and row past rose gardens in Rymill Park. Picnic in sprawling Botanic Park,

where the international music festival WOMADelaide is held. Explore the museums, markets and

historic harbour of Port Adelaide or see heritage buildings and colourful summer sideshows in

family-friendly Semaphore. Browse the world's largest collection of Aboriginal antiquities at the

Aboriginal Cultures Gallery or do a cultural tour of Adelaide Botanic Gardens with a local Kaurna

guide.

Barossa

Visit world-famous vineyards such as Yalumba, Seppelts, Penfolds and Two Hands and sample

quality, local produce on the Butcher, Baker, WineMaker Trail. In the nearby heritage town of

Gawler, you’ll find stone churches, galleries and museums set against rolling hills and manicured

vineyards. Take a tour of historic wineries and boutique breweries. See artisans at work in one of

the many studios or buy some of the region’s famous handicrafts. Of course, nothing beats a long

lunch under the gum trees with a bottle of one of the region’s flagship wines, Barossa Shiraz or

Eden Valley Riesling.

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Clare Valley

Walk or cycle the 25-kilometre Riesling Trail between vineyards and restaurants, past green hills,

churches and classic stone buildings. Taste sacramental wine made by Jesuit priests at the cellar

door in Sevenhill. Drive the Heartland Heritage Trail to lovingly restored heritage towns such as

Burra, Kapunda and Mintaro, where you can tour the stately Georgian mansion of Martindale

Hall. Learn about the region’s pastoral history with a stay at Bungaree Station in Clare. Explore the

Aboriginal history of Two Wells or see old steam trains in Gawler, South Australia’s oldest country

town. Explore the restaurants, cafes and pubs of the gourmet haven of Auburn. Buy country

produce from the colourful markets in Sevenhill or take a cooking course at Thorn Park.

Perth and surrounds

Cruise the Swan River past parks and skyscrapers to 40 vineyards in the Swan Valley or the Perth

Zoo. Visit Rottnest Island, where you can explore history, bike ride to secret beaches and kayak to

secluded bays. Feast on seafood and soak up the carnival atmosphere in historic Fremantle.

Discover the lookouts, landscaped gardens and Aboriginal heritage of huge Kings Park. Swim, surf,

fish, windsurf and sail on clean and uncrowded beaches such as Cottlesloe or Scarborough. Then

skip between the sunny boardwalks, beaches and marinas of the Sunset Coast.

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1.7. Celebrities

Nicole Kidman – an Australian actress, model, singer and humanitarian. She is known for her

films like Moulin Rouge, The Hours, Cold Mountain, Bewitch, Happy Feet, Australia . She is also

known for her marriage to Tom Cruise and her current marriage to country musician Keith Urban.

Mel Gibson - actor, film director, producer and screenwriter. Born in New York, Gibson moved

with his parents to Sydney when he was 12 years old and later studied acting at the National

Institute of Dramatic Art. His film The Passion of the Christ has made a huge excitement.

Cate Blanchett - Australian actress and theatre director. Blanchett came to international

attention in the 1998 film Elizabeth, in which she played Elizabeth I of England. She is also well

known for her portrayals of the elf queen Galadriel in The Lord of the Rings trilogy, Colonel-Doctor

Irina Spalko in Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull and Katharine Hepburn in

Martin Scorsese's The Aviator, a role which brought her the Academy Award for Best Supporting

Actress. She and her husband Andrew Upton are currently artistic directors of the Sydney Theatre

Company.

Heath Ledger - Australian television and film actor. His work includes nineteen films, most

notably 10 Things I Hate About You, The Patriot, Monster's Ball, A Knight's Tale,

Brokeback Mountain, The Dark Knight and The Joker. In addition to his acting, he

produced and directed music videos and aspired to be a film director. Cause of his dead

was overdosing of pills.

Kylie Minogue - Australian pop singer, songwriter, and occasional actress who has successfully

fought with cancer. She has own bronze statue in Melbourne. In 2000, Minogue performed at the

Sydney Olympic Games closing ceremony. Designed by Michael Wilkinson, Minogue's costume

featured a pink silk beaded corset and diamante headdress. It is now housed at the Powerhouse

Museum, Sydney.

Robbie Maddison – Australian freestyle motocross rider. He is well-known for World record

length motorcycle jump. On January 1, 2009, he successfully jumped nearly 30 meters up onto the

Arc de Triomphe in front of Paris Las Vegas and then descended a 40 foot drop off the monument

to return safely to ground level.

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2. New Zealand

2.1. Factfile

OFFICIAL NAME: New Zealand

FORM OF GOVERNMENT: constitutional monarchy with parliamentary democracy

CAPITAL: Wellington

AREA: 268,680 km2

POPULATION: 4,306,400

OFFICIAL LANGUAGES: English, Maori

OTHER LANGUAGE: NZ Sign Language

LITERACY RATE: 99%

RELIGIONS: Anglican 17,5%, Roman Catholic 13%, Presbyterian 13%, other Christian 17%, other

2,5%, none 16,6%

ETHNIC GROUPS: European 71,7%, Maori 14,5%, other 13,8%

CURRENCY: New Zealand dollar

ECONOMY: Services 70%, industry 20%, agriculture 10%

TIME ZONE: GMT + 12 hours

DRIVES: on the left

HIGHEST POINT: Mt. Cook 3,764 m

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2.2. Symbols

2.2.1. New Zealand Flag

The New Zealand Flag is the symbol of the realm government and people of New Zealand.

Its royal blue background is reminiscent of the blue sea and clear sky surrounding us. The stars of

the Southern Cross emphasise this country's location in the South Pacific Ocean. The Union Flag

gives recognition to our historical foundations and the fact that New Zealand was once a British

colony and dominion.

The New Zealand Flag may be flown on any day of the year. It is particularly appropriate

to fly it on days of national commemoration, such as Anzac Day, and on other important

occasions.

2.2.2. National anthem

'National songs, ballads and hymns have a tendency to elevate the character of a people

and keep alive the fire of patriotism in their breasts'. The Saturday Advertiser and New Zealand

Literary Miscellany, 1 July 1876.

New Zealand holds a rare position in the world in that it has two national anthems of

equal standing - 'God Defend New Zealand' and 'God Save The Queen'. Both of these anthems

have origins which have been inspired by the fire of patriotism yet were written under markedly

different situations.

2.2.3. Coat of arms

Coats of Arms are widely used in New Zealand by major institutions, local authorities and

even in some cases individuals. Their decorative qualities, symbolism and historical aspects hold

an enduring interest.

A traditional expression of national identity, the New Zealand Coat of Arms proclaims the

sovereign nature of New Zealand and the authority of the Government.

The Coat of Arms can be seen on a variety of documents and papers of constitutional and

national significance, ranging from Acts of Parliament and Proclamations, to passports.

One of the more interesting uses of the Coat of Arms occurred in 1962 when The Queen

adopted her personal flag for New Zealand, which featured the shield design of the Coat of Arms.

The Queen's Service Medal for community or public services, also features the Coat of Arms, as

does the badge of the Order of New Zealand.

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2.2.4. Waitangi Day

Waitangi Day, 6 February, marks the anniversary of the signing of the Treaty of Waitangi

in 1840. This Treaty, often described as New Zealand's founding document, was an agreement

between Maori chiefs and the British Crown, and covered issues of sovereignty, possession and

rights of citizenship. Differences between the English and Maori texts of the Treaty, and breaches

of its terms in the years following its signing, have complicated New Zealanders' sense of the

ongoing importance of this agreement.

Over the last twenty years or so, government has sought to encourage greater

understanding of the Treaty as a key element in our history, and to promote its nation building

potential. The Ministry manages the Commemorating Waitangi Day Fund, from which grants are

available for inclusive community events commemorating the signing of the Treaty and

celebrating the country we live in today.

2.2.5. Anzac Day

Anzac Day, 25 April, marks the anniversary of the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps'

first landing on the Gallipoli peninsula in 1915, during the First World War. Although the Allies lost

the Gallipoli campaign, this was an important episode in New Zealand's history. It showcased

attitudes and attributes – bravery, tenacity, practicality, ingenuity, loyalty to King and comrades –

that helped New Zealand define itself as a nation, even as it fought unquestioningly on the other

side of the world in the name of the British Empire, and suffered appalling loss of life.

The day is now the

focus for a broader acknowledgement of the costs of war: the sacrifice of all those who have died

in warfare is remembered, as is the contribution and suffering of all those who have served. Anzac

Day promotes a sense of unity, perhaps more effectively than any other day on the national

calendar. People whose politics, beliefs and aspirations are widely different can nevertheless

share a genuine sorrow at the loss of so many lives in war, and a real respect for those who have

endured warfare on behalf of their country. Although there are local

ceremonies marking Anzac Day throughout New Zealand, the Ministry is responsible for the

National War Memorial at which the National Anzac Day service is held. This service is organised

by the Visits and Ceremonial Office of the Department of Internal Affairs, in partnership with the

Ministry.

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2.3. Maori

Maori believe that they ancestors come from Island Hawaiki which is in the Pacific ocean.

Is said they came on their 7 long canoes with their headman called Tama Te Kapua. Nowadays he

has his memorable house in Ohinemutu. They also carried dogs and rats which weren’t on New

Zealand before. It was circa year 1350. Archaeologists ascertained Polynesians came to the island

long before- in 8th century or earlier.

Before the arrival of Europeans existed 5 big Maoris’ tribes in New Zealand. These were

devised into clans (hapuu). They lived in villages paled of palisades and ditches, in houses with

straw roofs. Maori grew various kinds of potatoes, hunted flyless birds ‘moa’ and were well

fishmen. Women could’t hunt fish, they made dresses from flax by stonys instruments. The

biggest values in society of fighters were courage, faithfulness and probity. Split breaks between

tribes were handled by wooden or stonys swords and waddies. A lot of men, women and children

who were taken, winners murdered and ate. They believed this way took life energy and spiritual

power of the victim. Maoris’ fighters loved sparring and relished revenge. They had many tattoos.

They made spiral slashes and into it embrocated colours.

Europeans knew New Zealand till 1642. At that time the Dutch navigator discovered the

south part of the Island. Maori killed four of his men so Tasman left the island. The Dutch celled

the island Nieuw Zeeland. In 1769 British explorer James Cook established friendly relations with

some Maori. By 1800, visits by European ships were relatively frequent. The island became a

resort for proscribed people. Europeans gave alcohol and weapons to Maori which were used in

tribal frays. It was start of destruction of Maori. They was dying because of European illnesses

such as pox. They have no esophylaxis.

In New Zealand was no legal government so British delegated Captain William Hobson as

governor. In 1840 he and Maori chiefs signed the Treaty of Waitangi. This treaty established

British rule, granted the Maori British citizenship, and recognized Maori land rights. Today many

of the treaty's provisions are disputed and there ahs been and is an effort from the New Zealand

Government to recompense Maori for some land that was illegally confiscated.

When the Europeans started to occupy ground, intensity between them and Maori was

getting stronger. From 1845 to 1847 Maori raised up against colonizers but they were loser. From

1860 to 1872 located many battles. Doughtiness of Maori couldn’t offer resistance to technical

predominance of Europeans. The war ended in 1872 and Maori lost mess of land.

The present Maori population is around 600,000 or 14% of the population, and the Maori

live in all parts of New Zealand, but predominately in the North Island where the climate is

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warmer. They integrate into European society much better than native Australians - Aboriginals.

2.4. Fauna and flora

With the exception of two species of bat, no indigenous mammals are native to New

Zealand. The only other wild mammals at present are those that have been introduced and they

are usually considered as pests. These includes deer, goats, pigs, rabbits, weasels, ferrets, and the

Australian opossum, as well as domesticated animals such as dogs and cats. New Zealand contains

no snakes and has only one poisonous spider called the Katipo, which is related to the Australian

Redback. The Katipo is very rare and its bite is never lethal.

Other insects include the Weta which is extremely frightening in appearance, but is

relatively harmless and the cicada, the loudest insect in the world.

New Zealand's most unique animal is the Tuatara, which is a lizard-like reptile that

predates the Dinosaur and is considered a living fossil.

There are some 70 species of birds found nowhere else in the world, more than a third of

them are flightless, and almost a quarter of them nocturnal. The survival of flightless birds was

attributed to the absence of predatory animals, but introduced species have made New Zealand a

much less favourable place to live for these birds and subsequently many flightless birds are

endangered and some have become extinct. Notable New Zealand birds include the Tui, Bellbird,

Kiwi, Kakapo, Takahe, and Weka. New Zealand is also home to many seabirds including the

Albatross, which has the longest wing span of any bird in the world.

The most spectacular of all New Zealand birds was the Moa. Unfortunately this

exceptional bird was hunted to extinction by the time the first European set foot on New Zealand.

Some Moa's reached heights of 15 feet, making them the tallest bird in the world. There have

been some supposed sightings of this bird in remote areas, but there has never been any hard

evidence that it still exists. It must be noted however, that there are still areas in New Zealand

that have never been sighted by humans, particularly in Fiordland. This does open a remote,

although unlikely possibility that it could still exist. A bird called the Takahe was once thought to

be extinct, but was rediscovered in a remote area of Fiordland National Park in 1948. Through

successful breeding programs, this bird now has a healthy population.

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2.5. Places of interests, attractions

Cape Reinga

Cape Reinga is the northwestern most tip of the Aupouri Peninsula, at the northern end of

the North Island of New Zealand. Cape Reinga is located over 100 km north of the nearest small

town of Kaitaia. There is a road all the way but the final 19 km are 'metal' road (which is to be

upgraded to a standard seal within the next years). Suitable vehicles can travel much of the way

via Ninety Mile Beach and Te Paki stream bed. The name of the cape comes from the Māori word

'Reinga', meaning the 'Underworld'. Another Māori name is 'Te Rerenga Wairua', meaning the

leaping-off place of spirits. Both refer to the Māori belief that the cape is the point where the

spirits of the dead enter the underworld.

As of January 2007, Cape Reinga is on the tentative list of UNESCO waiting to receive

World Heritage Site status. The cape is already a favourite tourist attraction, with over 120,000

visitors a year and around 1,300 cars arriving per day during peak season. Visitor numbers are

growing by about 5% a year, and the increase is likely to become even more pronounced once the

road to the cape is fully sealed.

White Island (Whakaari)

White Island is one of the most fascinating and accessible volcanoes on earth, carrying

with it an A grade level of scientific importance. As New Zealand’s only live marine volcano,

scientists and volcanologists worldwide are attracted by its unique features.

The volcano is estimated to be between 100,000 and 200,000 years old. However, the

small portion of the island that is visible above sea level has been in its present form for an

estimated 16,000 years - evidence of a continually changing landscape.

Walking on White Island is like walking on the moon. Virtually no vegetation survives the

harsh acidic environment inside the crater walls. Instead, lush beds of yellow and white sulphur

crystals grow amongst hissing, steaming, bubbling fumaroles.

Giant mounds, remnants of the 1914 Great Landslide, dwarf visitors as they wind their

way up to the Main Crater. Venturing to the edge, they are greeted by an amazing sight - an

immense crater, with towering walls shielding its spectacular lake and punctuated by steamy

vents from which the power of the inner earth constantly belches forth.

Neighbouring Donald Duck and Noisy Nellie Craters each have their own stories to tell and

a view from on high. Down below, bright yellow chimneys of delicate sulphur crystals enhance 26

the alien landscape and lure the visitor for a closer look.

In contrast to these natural features, stand the ruins of an old factory, the only human

testament to the numerous failed sulphur mining attempts of days gone by, and now slowly being

reclaimed by Mother Nature.

Scientific equipment is discreetly positioned around the volcano. Its activity is constantly

being monitored by IGNS (Institute of Geological and Nuclear Sciences). A seismograph, survey

pegs, magnetometers and a camera all provide information on just what the volcano is up to. Up-

to-date images of the island can be viewed hourly at www.geonet.org.nz

White Island currently sits on an alert level rating of 1, meaning she is always active,

constantly steaming. Misty, roaring, ashing, rumbling - who knows what mood she’ll be in if you

are fortunate enough to visit.....

Milford Sound

Milford Sound is a fjord in the south west of New Zealand's South Island, within Fiordland

National Park and the Te Wahipounamu World Heritage site. It has been judged the world's top

travel destination in an international survey, and is acclaimed as New Zealand's most famous

tourist destination. Rudyard Kipling had previously called it the eighth Wonder of the World.

Abel Tasman National Park

Located near the northwest tip of the South Island, Abel Tasman national park is one of

New Zealand‘s most beautiful natural areas. On the west side Tasman Bay 17km from Nelson, the

park covers 225 sq km of native forest and includes numerous islands, rocs and reefs within the

Tonga Island Marin Reserve. This coastline has an allure of its own – hills of native bush descent to

beaches of golden send, and rocky granite headlands just out into a perfect blue – green sea. It’s

no surprise that the area has become a popular haunt for trampers and boaties alike. The

Department of Conservations manages both the Inland Track and the popular Coast Track that

runs 15km from Marahau to Wainui Bay at the north and of the Park. There are camping areas

along the way and Park huts at The Anchorage in Torand Bay, Bark Bay, Awaroa Bay and

Whariwharingi Bay. The water taxi service that operate from the mane bays can be a great

convenience for those walking just part of the Coastal Track.

Another way of enjoying this stunning coastline is by kayak, and organised see – kayaking

tours are going in popularity.

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Dunedin

This is the closest you'll get to Scotland in the Pacific. If you can't possibly return from the South

Pacific without buying a kilt or a locally fermented single malt whisky, you've come to the right

place. Shore excursions will take you close enough to Antarctica to visit with penguins or far

enough inland to explore one of New Zealand's precipitous gorges.

Christchurch – The Garden City

Christchurch and Canterbury are famous for natural beauty and a wealth of things to do.

Christchurch has a lively entertainment scene, strong cultural heritage, gorgeous parks and

gardens, lots of sports facilities and good shopping.

Among the 'must sees' are the weekend Arts Centre market, Christchurch Cathedral,

Botanic Gardens and International Antarctic Centre.

The Christchurch Art Gallery Te Puna o Waiwhetu exhibit's New Zealand and international

art and Canterbury Museum has fine cultural and natural collections as well as creative and

imaginative displays. Orana Park is New Zealand's largest wildlife reserve and Willowbank Wildlife

Reserve has among its displays New Zealand's largest daytime kiwi viewing area. Air Force World

captures the adventure and history of flight in New Zealand and Christchurch Casino offers 24-

hour gaming entertainment. Visitors can be introduced to Maori culture at Nga Hau E Wha Marae.

Wellington

Wellington is the capital city of New Zealand and home to the seat of parliament. But this

vibrant and dynamic city also has many other capital claims including Culture capital, Creative

capital and Events capital. Wellington is home to most national theatre, dance and performance

companies, as well as the national museum, archives and library. As a result there's something on

almost every night in Wellington - from pacific inspiration to local and international perfomances.

The city is nestled between the harbour and steep, forest-clad hills - and is wonderfully

walkable. The revamped waterfront area leads from the cruise dock at the eastern edge of town

to the must-see Te Papa museum in the west. A stroll along the quay is filled with surprises.

There's a grassy playground for kids, large-scale sculptures and fun wooden walkways. Cross the

street, and you'll have your choice of cafes and shops.

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Auckland

Auckland has so much to see and do - there's plenty of entertainment for a few hours, a few days

or a few weeks. Here's a taste of some of Auckland's unique activities:

Rangitoto Island

Walk or ride to the summit of Rangitoto, the lava rock sleeping volcano in the middle of the

Hauraki Gulf. Rangitoto emerged from the sea in a fiery explosion around 600 years ago and now

is an iconic jewel in the Auckland harbour.

Island escapes

Enjoy wine and olive tasting, lazing on the beach and art trails on laid back Waiheke Island, a 35

minute ferry ride from downtown Auckland. Or escape to the wilderness of Great Barrier Island,

with bush tracks leading to natural hot springs and historic kauri tree dams.

On the water

Take a cruise on a chartered launch or classic yacht on the Waitemata Harbour. Or go racing on an

America's Cup yacht, take a dolphin-spotting excursion or a gentle ferry ride to a seaside suburb.

Culture and heritage

See the biggest collection of Maori taonga (treasures) in the world at Auckland War Memorial

Museum, plus see a performance of traditional Maori songs and dances. Learn about New

Zealand's unique flora and fauna, and the European settlers who shaped its colonial heritage.

Sky Tower

Jump off the tallest building in the Southern Hemisphere – SkyJump is 192 metres of cable-

controlled base jumping from the Sky Tower. Alternatively walk around the outside of the tower

with SkyWalk, or just admire the view from the safety of the observation deck and restaurants.

Kelly Tarlton's Antarctic Encounter and Underwater World

Spend a day at Kelly Tarlton's and discover the unique sea life that lives in and around New

Zealand's waters. Walk through an underwater glass tunnel, see real life King and Gentoo

penguins or for the brave at heart, swim with stingrays and sharks!

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Auckland Harbour Bridge

Spanning the Waitemata Harbour, the Auckland Harbour Bridge offers spectacular views of

Auckland city and the islands of the gulf. To admire these views and get the heart racing, climb

over the bridge or bungy jump off it!

Bay of Islands

If experiencing New Zealand's natural treasures, forests and water-intensive activities is important

to you, this may be the highlight of your entire cruise. This is prime sailing territory, so look for the

chance to participate in guided sailing excursions. If your ship offers charter fishing trips, and

you're so inclined, this is (according to Zane Grey) one of the top deep-sea fishing locations on the

planet. Forest and shoreline hiking will expose you both to evidence of the first Maori

communities encountered by Europeans and to what was once the booming, swashbuckling

whaling and maritime centre of life in New Zealand.

Mt. Tarawera

Mt Tarawera is the sacred mountain of the local Maori Tribe Ngati Rangitihi. As the

highest mountain in their tribal area it plays an important role in Maori culture. High-ranking

members of the tribe are buried on the mountain in sacred areas. During the 1800s, the world-

famous Pink and White Silica Terraces at Lake Rotomahana were regarded as the 8 th wonder of

the world and became New Zealand’s first tourist attraction. On June 10, 1886, Mt Tarawera

erupted, destroying the terraces, devastating the surrounding landscape and villages with a loss of

over 150 lives. Just days before eruption, a phantom canoe or apparition was seen on Lake

Tarawera by both Maori and European.

Mt Tarawera lies within the Okataina Volcanic Centre, one of five major active areas

within the Taupo Volcanic Zone. Tarawera is made up of 11 rhyolite domes and pyroclastics from

eruptions from within the southern part of the Haroharo Caldera formed by volcanic episode

more than 20,000 years ago. Tarawera has erupted five times and today is sleeping.

Mt. Ruapehu

In September 1887 the sacred mountain peaks, Ruapehu, Ngauruhoe and Tongariro, were

gifted to the people of New Zealand by the Paramount Chief of Ngati Tuwharetoa, Horonuku Te

Heu Heu Tukino, thus ensuring their protection for all people for all time. This gift formed the

nucleus of Tongariro National Park, New Zealand’s first national park and a dual World Heritage

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area. Whakapapa Ski Area is located on the northern slopes of Mt Ruapehu which are the

traditional lands of Ngati Tuwharetoa people. The upper slopes are within the original gifted area.

Turoa Ski Area is located on the southern slopes of Mt Ruapehu which are the traditional lands of

the Ngati Rangi and Ngati Uenuku people. Ruapehu Alpine Lifts Ltd operates both ski areas under

licences issued by the Department of Conservation.

Whakapapa and Turoa are New Zealand’s two largest ski areas. The incredible volcanic

terrain provides all kinds of hidden gems within the ski area boundaries. The Mt Ruapehu

Mountain Hosts will take you to the best spots for free! Morning and Afternoon tours leave daily.

Mt Ruapehu is home to the most awesome natural skiing and snowboarding terrain in the

country – huge snow filled basins, steep chutes, drop-offs and secret powder stashes.

Mt Ruapehu offers something for everyone: world-class learner’s facilities, terrain parks

for snowboarders and freeskiers of all abilities, and the best spring skiing in New Zealand. On a

good day the hike to Mt Ruapehu’s Crater Lake is well worth it for the 1000 m vertical ride back

down.

Oparara Basin Arches

Rich unspoiled rainforest stretching across a broad valley floor, three magnificent arches sculpted

by the Oparara River, bush-fringed streams stained the colour of billy tea from the humic acids

washing down through the soil, and an underground treasure hidden away in a highly complex

cave system, combine to make this area one of immense national and international significance.

The Oparara River is the habitat of the whio or blueduck, which frequents the swift-flowwing

waters. The Department of Conservation has some 450 stoat traps in the Oparara as part of its

blue duck protection scheme.

Hanmer Springs Thermal Reserve

Hanmer Springs Thermal Reserve in the natural place tu unwind. The mineral thermal

waters that bubble up from deep beloved the earth are known to Maori as Waitapu – ‘sacred

waters’. For more than 100 years the ‘sacred waters’ have attracted visitors seeking to relax,

unwind and ease their aches and pains.

Relaxation is what HANMER Springs Thermal Reserve is all about, so a visit to the privat

and tranquil ‘Alpine Escape’ corner is a must. The sauna and steam suites contain their own

shower, changing area and fresh water plunge pool whilst the private thermal suites, which

overlook a secluded native garden, contain their own shower, changing area and thermal pool

with raised water massage spout. All Alpine Escape suites have room for up to 6 people.

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In another area of the reserve are the play areas where the young (and young at heart)

can enjoy the waterfalls, animal slides and heated waterslides, without disturbing the peace and

tranquility of the relaxation pools.

A fantastic place in summer, and with a special magic on snowy winter days, Hanmer

Springs Thermal Reserve in the small Alpine village of Hanmer Springs Thermal Reserve is the

natural place to unwind.

The Karawarau River

The Karawarau in New Zealand’s largest commercially rafted river earning it an international

reputation for white water thrills.

Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland

The Wai-O-Tapu is the largest area of surface thermal activity of any hydrothermal system

in the Taupo Volcanic Zone. Covering some 18 sq km, with volcanic dome of Rainbow Mountain at

its northern boundary, the area is literally covered with collapsed craters, cold and boiling pools of

mud, water and steaming fumaroles. The general public sees only a very small portion. The area is

associated with volcanic activity dating back about 160,000 years and is located right on the edge

of the largest volcanic caldera within the active Taupo Volcanic Zone.

The Wai-O-Tapu stream forms are integral part of the drainage system which ultimately

flows into the Waikato River and out into the Tasman Sea. Boiling springs and volcanic gases

introduce numerous minerals into the water which account for no fish life in the stream.

As a Scenic Reserve, all native flora, fauna and geological formations are strictly protected.

The surrounding manuka scurb vegetation is extremely flammable as are some of the minerals.

2.6. Celebrities

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Russell Crowe - a New Zealand-born Australian actor and musician. His acting career began in

the early 1990s with roles in Australian TV series such as Police Rescue and films such as Romper

Stomper. In the late 1990s, he began appearing in US films such as L.A. Confidential. He has been

nominated for three Oscars, and in 2001, he won the Academy Award for Best Actor for his

starring role in the film Gladiator. Crowe is also co-owner of National Rugby League team the

South Sydney Rabbitohs.

Peter Jackson - a three-time Academy Award-winning New Zealand filmmaker, producer and

screenwriter, best known for The Lord of the Rings trilogy adapted from the novel by J. R. R.

Tolkien. He is also known for his 2005 remake of King Kong.

He won international attention early in his career with his "splatstick" horror comedies, before

coming to mainstream prominence with Heavenly Creatures, for which he shared an Academy

Award best screenplay nomination with his partner Fran Walsh.

Cameron Duncan - actor, director, and writer. A native of New Zealand, Duncan played the role

of 'Bass' on the television series Shortland Street. He also worked on the film, "Strike Zone" as

both director and writer. The song, Into The West, was written about him and he was also the

recipient of several Fair Go Ad Awards for ads he had done.

Dennis Hulme - Formula One Driver. 1967 Formula One World Champion, driving a Brabham. In

the category started 112 races, won 8, with 33 podiums and 9 fastest laps. He died after a heart

attack while at the wheel of a BMW M3 during the Bathurst 1000 in Australia.

2.7. Interesting facts about New Zealand

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New Zealand was the first country to give women the right to vote (1893).

It was probably a New Zealander, Richard William Pearse, who took the world’s first flight

- nearly two years before the Wright Brothers in the United States (this however cannot

be proven). On 31 March 1902 Pearse managed to fly his home-made aircraft 91 metres

in a field near Timaru.

There are more golf courses in New Zealand per capita, than any other country in the

world (over 400 golf courses).

Auckland has the largest number of boats per capita than any other city in the world.

William Hamilton, a Canterbury farmer, developed and perfected the propellerless jet

boat based on the principle of water jet propulsion. Following this, Hamilton went on to

invent the hay-lift, an advanced air compressor, an advanced air conditioner, a machine to

smooth ice on skating ponds; the water sprinkler and also contributed to the

improvements of hydro-power.

A New Zealander, Sir Edmund Hillary, was the first person to climb Mount Everest (with

Sherpa Tenzing Norgay) in 1953.

Baron Ernest Rutherford, a New Zealander, was the first person in the world to split the

atom (in 1919). Rutherford also succeeded in transmitting and detecting ‘wireless waves’

a year before Marconi, but left this work to pursue researching radioactivity and the

structure of the atom at Trinity College in Cambridge, England. Rutherford was awarded

the Nobel Prize for his work.

New Zealand is the first country in the world to see each new day.

Curio Bay in Southland is one of the world’s most extensive and least disturbed examples

of a petrified forest, (the forest is approximately 180 million years old).

New Zealand is the birthplace of the meringue dessert known as the ‘Pavlova’, named

after the famous ballerina Anna Pavlova.

New Zealand won the first ever Rugby World Cup in 1987. The New Zealand Women’s

Rugby Team won the Women’s Rugby World Cup in 1998.

Tongariro National Park was the fourth national park to be established in the world and

the first in New Zealand, in 1887. (Yellowstone National Park in the United States was the

first in 1872.)

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The Hector’s Dolphin (the world’s smallest marine dolphin), and the world’s rarest sea

lion, the Hooker’s sea lion, are only found in New Zealand waters.

New Zealand is home to the world’s only flightless parrot, the Kakapo, as well as the Kea -

the only alpine parrot in the world.

The oldest living genus of reptile is the native New Zealand Tuatara. Tuataras have a life

expectancy of 300 years. It is estimated that Tuataras can be traced back 190 million years

to the Mesozoic era.

A New Zealander invented the tear back Velcro-strip, the pop-lid on a self sealing paint

tin, the child-proof pill bottle and the crinkle in your hairpins so that they don’t fall out!

Katherine Mansfield is New Zealand's greatest literary figure. Her works shake free of

plots and endings, but tell stories, for the first time, through the expansiveness of the

interior life, the poetry of feeling, and the blurred edges of personality.

Nancy Wake (born in Wellington in 1912) was the Allies' most decorated servicewoman in

WWII, and the Gestapo's most-wanted person. They code-named her 'The White Mouse'.

Alan MacDiarmid discovered that plastics could conduct electricity, leading to the

development of information technology as we have come to know it today. He was

awarded the Nobel Prize for chemistry for this discovery.

Nobel Price winner in physiology and medicine, New Zealander Maurice Wilkins helped

lead to the discovery in 1953 of the DNA molecule structure - the very essence of life

itself!

Joseph Nathan was a New Zealand entrepreneur that, in 1906, founded Glaxo, producer

of the dried milk formula that became a household name for infant health & nutrition.

Today, the company forms the cornerstone of the multinational corporation -

GlaxoSmithKline.

Arthur Lydiard invented jogging - the method of building physical fitness by gradually

increasing stamina.

The launch of Sputnik in 1957 forced the United States into the space race. Less than 3

months later, the U.S. launched Explorer 1. The man behind it: William Pickering from

Wellington, New Zealand.

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Children in New Zealand's secondary schools spend more time than the OECD average

learning mathematics, science, technology and physical education. They spend less time

learning foreign languages, arts and religion than children in other countries.

The graduates from New Zealand's universities who tend to earn the highest salaries are

those qualified in sciences, engineering and management & commerce. Creative arts,

food, hospitality and personal services graduates tended to have lower salaries.

For each person who lives here, New Zealand produces 100 kg of butter and 65 kg of

cheese each year.

Wellington is the most southerly capital city on the planet

One in five deaths in New Zealand is caused tobacco smoking.

The City of Dunedin is home to: New Zealand's oldest university. New Zealand's first

newspaper and New Zealand's first botanic gardens

With 2.5 million cars for four million people, including children, New Zealand's car

ownership rate is one of the world's highest

New Zealanders raise most sheep on the world

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Conclusion

I hope this my work has impressed you and once you’ll visit these beautiful countries. I hope you

know something new and interesting about these countries what you didn’t know before. Now

you know something more about Aboriginals, Uluru, Kakadu National Park, kangaroos, emu,

koalas, Sydney, Gold Coast.... You also know about Maori, Mt Ruapehu, Wai-O-Tapu, Hamner

Springs Thermal Reserve, Auckland, rafting and more.

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Source

Cheers G.: Geographica. NSW Australia, Random House Australia Pty Ltd 1999

Divy sveta. Bratislava, Ikar 2000

Austrália – vzdialený svetadiel. Bratislava, Slovenské pedagogické nakladateľstvo 1975

Harris M., Mower D., Sikorzynska A.: Opportunities Intermediate. Essex, Pearson Educational

Limited 2000

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australian-animals.net

environment.gov.au/parks/kakadu

en.wikipedia.org

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