Reference

Cabbage TreesTake a virtual tour of New Zealand

Don’t have the time, money or inclination to see more of New Zealand? We’ve checked out some great online resources which you can use to take a virtual trip around the country from the comfort of your armchair.

Fly around the country

If you have a broadband internet connection, you can fly across New Zealand on your screen and land in all the places you’d like to see more of using Google Earth. Seeing 3D terrain and buildings is one of the coolest features of Google Earth, says Google. ;bricks look like real bricks, glass looks like real glass, and overall, the world looks more like the real world. It’s free to download. See the minimum system requirements before you download the 14.2 MB program.

World Wind is similar to Google Earth. Developed by NASA, it’s a free download. The program lets you zoom from satellite altitude into any place on Earth… just as if you were really there. You can virtually visit anywhere in New Zealand and beyond. See the minimum system requirements, and it’s a big download at 60 MB.

Grab a map

To tour the country properly, you need a map. Google Maps has detailed coverage of the whole of New Zealand. You can overlay satellite images and print copies. Bing Maps offers a similar service, together with driving directions. New Zealand’s Wises Maps also has the country covered and a good driving directions service.

Find out more about your destination

What’s worth seeing at your destination? Our own Internet Gateway regional travel guides will help. Tourism New Zealand’s 100% Pure NZ site is also a great place to start exploring all the great sights the country has to offer, and you can also watch the 90 second New Zealand TV ad currently being shown to overseas audiences, with soundtrack Waiting by Dave Dobbyn, sung by Christchurch’s Jason Kerrison (from Kiwi band Opshop). The AA’s 101 Must-Do’s for Kiwis has lots of tips from other New Zealanders on where you should go.

Take a picnic

So you’re ready to go on your virtual trip? Don’t forget your picnic. Order some food online to be delivered while you’re virtually travelling. What about pizza, Indian, or order some your picnic ingredients in advance from the supermarket.*

Enjoy your trip!

More New Zealand travel resources

On this web site:

Our Internet Gateway links

Browse the resources in our libraries:

* Note: Christchurch City Libraries does not endorse or recommend the services or products of any business or retailer. These links are intended only to support the content on this page.