New Zealand's National Parks - North IslandWritten by Seb Jay
New Zealand is a land of awe-inspiring beauty. Sea, sky and mountain come together in a visual collage that is both breathtaking and humbling - it makes you glad to be alive! Humans have been present in New Zealand for less than a thousand years. The amazing landscapes of this country are therefore relatively untouched by mankind, offering visitors opportunity to commune with nature.New Zealand's natural heritage is preserved for all to see in 14 different national parks across country. On North Island there are four parks, with remaining ten being present on more mountainous South Island. Te Urewera is largest of parks on North Island, and is country's fourth largest park overall. At a height of 3000ft above sea level it straddles Huiarau Range - a northeast-southwest alignment of mountains that runs through heart of North Island. The park protects a vast swath of ancient forest, which is dominated by native trees such as red beech, rata, tawa and rimu. It is a sanctuary for wildlife too, kiwi, blue duck and great New Zealand Falcon (karearea) being resident in mist-shrouded mountains. In south of Te Urewera National Park is Lake Waikaremoana - a beautiful inland lake that resembles a Norwegian Fjord. It was formed more than 2000 years ago and is 800ft deep in places. The lake is now a centre for nature tourism as well as for inland watersports. Travelling on westwards past Lake Taupo we find arguably most exhilarating of all National Parks on North Island - Tongariro National Park. Located roughly in centre of island, Tongariro consists of a series of active volcanoes - Tongariro, Ngauruhoe and Ruapehu. Snow covered for most of winter, volcanoes provide a unique skiing and snowboarding experience during winter months, enthusiasts having to pick their way around steaming vents and geysers. During summer snow recedes to reveal a delightful network of paths offering hikers some exquisite views of park.
| | Hilton Head Island - Off The Beaten PathWritten by Jeff Palmer
HILTON HEAD ISLAND - OFF THE BEATEN PATHHilton Head Island is well known as an upscale resort and golf desination. What is often overlooked is many wonderful activites available for family vacationers. If you grow tired of enjoying Hilton Head's 12 miles of beach, five star restaurants and world class shopping following suggestions may help you find alternative activties. Daufuskie Island Historical/Cultural Tour Daufuskie Island is like stepping back in time. Just a one hour boat ride from Hilton Head Island. Daufuskie Island Historical/Cultural Tour Accessible only by boat, this tour takes visitors to The Island’s winery, church, plantation, and light House. Golf carts available for self-guided tour. 50 Bush’s Branches Rd., Bluffton. Call 342-8687 Palmetto Dunes Junior Golf Academy This 5-day program is perfect learning environment for all skill levels. The small class size guarantees personalized and specific attention to needs of each student. Teachers are professional and encourage students to learn and love game of golf. For students 17 and under. Reservations required. Available Beginning June 2005 Schedule : Monday - Friday, 2:00 PM - 5:00 PM Cost: $600.00 Toll-free 800.827.3006 or local 843.785-1138 Fireworks at Shelter Cove Every Tuesday night at 9 p.m. - barring rain or lightning threats - through Aug. 24 Summertime festival each Tuesday through Aug. 24 at Shelter Cove Harbour on Broad Creek. Fireworks are launched from a barge by vendor Pyrotecnico. Shelter Cove is off William Hilton Parkway, across from Palmetto Dunes, near middle of Hilton Head Island.
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