Re-Live Spring and Head to New Zealand! All About New Zealand on GlobetrottingMama.com

We may be heading into fall here in Canada but in New Zealand September brings the start of spring. If you’re not quite ready to embrace the cold that is coming, this is a great time to visit this incredible country.

Spring temperatures in New Zealand range from 7 to 19 degrees Celsius, depending on where you are in the country. The mild temperatures and many hours of sunshine make it a great place to visit and discover everything New Zealand has to offer. Here are 5 facts about this island country you can use to convince your family that the time to go is now:

A Rain Lovers Paradise

While it’s true that New Zealand has a high average rainfall when compared to other countries, that doesn’t have to be a bad thing. (In general it is a good idea to prepare for all types of weather in the spring months). Alll that rain means the land of New Zealand is green and  lush, and much of it yields the crops native New Zealanders live off of. Pack your Wellies and be prepared and you’ll still be amazed by the gorgeous landscapes.

Similarities to Canada Abound

Canadian travellers will find that New Zealand will feel a bit like home – no matter where in the country you’re from. The currency is similar – like Canadians, New Zealanders have $1 and $2 coins, as well as smaller coins and paper bills. We both have lush rainforests and pristine lakes, harbour cities and a focus on outdoor adventure, and the people of each country are known for their hospitality. You can discover more similarities in this article by the Traveling Canucks.

New Zealanders are called “Kiwis”

You may have heard  the people of New Zealand referred to as “kiwis.” The term is a popular one. New Zealand is a “melting pot” nation, with many of the residents of New Zealand of European descent. The natives to New Zealand are the Māori people and it is thought they first settled in New Zealand 1000 years ago, perhaps coming from a Polynesian nation in the South Pacific Ocean. You can learn more about the history of the Māori people here.

Rugby is to New Zealand What Hockey is to Canada

Kiwis love their Rugby, something we discovered when we travelled there. Rugby is New Zealand’s National Sport. We had to learn about how the game of rugby was played when we visited. Curious? Here’s a primer.

More about the inhabitants of New Zealand

There are several animal species that are native to New Zealand. The rare kiwi bird is the country’s national symbol. It is difficult to spot a kiwi (the bird not the people ;))  in the wild, but they can be found in museums and wildlife parks.

New Zealand is also home to the Hector’s dolphins, a rare kind of dolphin only found in the waters off the island’s shores. Diving and snorkeling adventures are a must-do experience.

You may also want to get around New Zealand by car. Like in Britain, New Zealanders drive on the left side of the road and the driver sits on the right. Here are a few things to keep in mind when driving in New Zealand. And here’s a look at our own road adventure in the country.

If you are looking for a great place to get away to in the coming months, spring in New Zealand may be exactly what you’re looking for.