New Zealand's sweeping vistas have captured the imagination of travelers around the world. Visitors flock here to sample world-class wines, snap up young designers' wares, and tour "Middle-earth." Fodor's Essential New Zealand, in full color, helps visitors make the most of their time, whether they choose to stay on the North or South Island or island-hop through the country.-EXPANDED COVERAGE: A new Need to Know spread gives readers the lowdown on New Zealand at a glance. There's also coverage of the resurgent restaurant, hotel, and nightlife scene in Christchurch, and that scene is spreading to surrounding areas. Peter Jackson's Hobbit trilogy continues to bring legions of fans to the country, and Fodor's helps visitors pick the best tours as well as places to eat and stay around New Zealand's top Tolkien sites.-ILLUSTRATED FEATURES: Special color features throughout the guide illuminate the most distinctive aspects of New Zealand. Features on tramping in New Zealand's many national parks, sailing, birding, wine tours, and Maori art give travelers an unparalleled sense of the country. -INDISPENSABLE TRIP PLANNING TOOLS: Top Experiences and Great Itineraries help travelers make the most of their time and navigate one or both of New Zealand's islands. Charts on tour operators and national parks activities give visitors information on how to plan their outdoor adventures and go on guided excursions. -DISCERNING RECOMMENDATIONS: Fodor's Essential New Zealand offers savvy advice and recommendations from local writers to help travelers make the most of their visit. Fodor's Choice designates our best picks, from hotels to nightlife. -PULLOUT MAP: A handy take-along map of New Zealand provides added value, giving travelers essential information so they can travel with confidence.-INCLUDES: Auckland, Wellington, Bay of Islands, Queenstown, Abel Tasman National Park, Christchurch, Hawke's Bay, Milford Sound, and more. -ABOUT FODOR'S AUTHORS: Each Fodor's Travel Guide is researched and written by local experts. Read Less