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Napier: Although Napier is the cultural capital of New Zealand, one does not have to be too much inclined towards the same, as there is so much more to look forward to. The city has a fervent passion for architecture and fine wine, and has shaken off its not so illustrious past that was the worst natural disaster in the history of NZ, the 1931 earthquake. The city was rebuilt in the prevalent styles of that era, and still has much of the Art-Deco buildings that serve as a painful memory as well as the resemblance of courage. Architecture lovers from all over the world flock to Napier, despite the fact that most of the structures are low rise, possibly to avert the risk of damage due to another earthquake. However, the 1930s streetscapes are still there, and the city is sunny and charismatic, with an 'English seaside' appeal. Tongariro National Park: The North Island is overpopulated with volcanic-cone skiing, with Mt. Ruapehu in Tongariro National Park being the perfect ski zone. The resorts Whakapapa and Turoa, each situated on different sides of the mountain comprise the largest ski area in NZ, with lift passes being available at both establishments. The former, i.e., Whakapapa, is situated 6km above Whakapapa Village and has 30 groomed runs, along with a multitude of snowboarding opportunities – cross-country, downhill and ski touring – with the highest lift access in the country. One can drive up the slopes or travel via a shuttle minibus from the Whakapapa Village, National Park township, Taupo or Turangi. There is also a beginners' lift at Smaller Turoa, along with provision for snowboarding, downhill and cross-country skiing. Also, no road toll or parking fee is required, and regular ski-area transport is also available from Ohakune, which is 16kms from the Park, and has the most exciting post-ski arrangements. The club operated Tukino is located on the eastern side of Mt Ruapehu, 50km from Turangi. The place is more or less remote, and a 4WD vehicle is needed to make advance booking for using the club transport. Since the access is not the most convenient one, the area is not too crowded even during peak seasons. Rotorua: The sulphurous airs of Rotorua might not suit the taste of a majority of the regular tourists, but those who 'dare' to venture to this part of the country, NZ's most revered thermal area awaits with steaming hot geysers, springs and 'burning' mud pools. This is the region of the Maori tribe, and one of the most spellbinding springs was named as Wai-O-Tapu (Sacred Waters). Even today, 35% of the local population is Maori, and the cultural performances and traditional hangi is as phenomenal an attraction as the attractive landscape. 'Sulphur City', as Rotorua is also called, is one of the most visited spots on the North Island, having more than 3 million tourists on an annual basis. While in New Zealand, subscribing to Matrix international sim cards ensures huge savings of up to 80% on international calls compared to regular calling services, so that one can talk to friends and family without having to worry about the bills. For more information related to international SIM card, SIM card for New Zealand, International communication, international traveling SIM cards please visit: - http://www.matrix.in
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