While there are few monuments to a historic past that one might find in Europe of Asia, few countries host a wider assortment of outdoor experiences that embraces today better than New Zealand. Visitors can trek through wide open spaces, thriving rain forests, mountains, fjords, beaches, the geothermic wonders of bubbling mud pits, geysers and active volcanoes. Animal enthusiasts can revel in eyeing local seals, dolphins, whales and penguins at play. Adventurers will bungee jump, mountain climb and cave raft. Maori culture is friendly, active, passionate and accessible through visits to cities like Rotorua and Kaikoura – and should not be overlooked. Politically, New Zealand is progressive, conscious and holds the distinction of being the first country in the world granting women the right to vote.