World Heritage Sites in New Zealand

New Zealand is visited by people all over the world because of the mind picturesque beauty of the surroundings, which really captivate the visitors by its charm. Whatever you want is available in this country; right from the forests, active volcanoes, glaciers which are there from pre historic times, the remote sanctuaries in different islands and lots more. While talking of New Zealand, how can one forget about the Alps and the snow covered peaks, which attract people from all around the globe. UNESCO has identified some of the World Heritage Sites in New Zealand. They are unique in their own aspects along with the cultural and natural value.

These are Te Wahipounamu, Tongariro and Subantarctic Islands. These are discussed in details in the following lines. Te Wahipounamu, one of the World Heritage Sites in New Zealand, comprises of forests, mountains, glaciers and also fiords. Te Wahipounamu is actually collection of some national parks in the south west region of New Zealand. Natural beauties of this place comprises of snow covered mountains, coastal fiords and 26,000 square kilometers of forests which are located in remote areas. The valleys which are steep and the glaciers flowing through them are really picturesque.

It was declared as one of the heritage sites in world due to the beautiful and rare flora and fauns right from the prehistoric age, when this place was a continent of Gondwanaland. To reach the remote areas in this region, river jet boats are the best options. Overnight hiking trails along with short walk networks are simply superb. Tongariro National Park, the oldest national park of New Zealand is another popular among the World Heritage Sites in New Zealand. It is situated in the Central part of North Island. UNESCO has identified it as one of the mixed natural and cultural World heritage Sites.

Tongariro National Park was established fourth in world and it is marked by some of the active volcanic mountains like Ngauruhoe, Ruapehu and also Tongariro, which imparts the name to this location. Lots of Maori religious sites, located inside the park are also popular attractions of the tourists. So, this region is also sacred site of the people of New Zealand.

Subantarctic Islands, famous among World Heritage Sites in New Zealand, are actually 5 island groups which are situated in the southern ocean, which is locate in South East of New Zealand. These group of islands are home to some rare species like yellow eyed penguin, royal albatross and sea lion. The 5 group of islands are Auckland Islands, Antipodes Islands, Snares islands, Bounty Islands and Campbell Island. It was declared as one of the World Heritage Sites in New Zealand in the year 1998.