New Zealand is among the first countries where the sun shines, and rightly so, for Aotearoa (Maori for New Zealand) offers something new everyday, and is an inspiration to many global metropolis who think that size matters. This remote and sparsely populated island scores high on the list according to its size. It has picturesque and scenic locales, fantastic festivals, sumptuous food and the finest of wines, and a lot more adventure sports activities than one could imagine. And that is not all, for the cultural side of the country is as strong, with the Maori spirit remaining alive in every New Zealander. Indigenous people are most revered and respected here, and society is much more accepting, simpler and gentler than the rest of the world, making this country the perfect concoction for a traveller looking for something different. There has been a tremendous spurt in the number of tourists – 2.2 million in 2007, from 1.6 million in 1999; a 60% jump – Agreed, there has been plenty of activity that tends to get a bit overloaded at times, but more often than not, that is the fun of it! Coming to the domain of the arts, the Kiwis (slang for New Zealanders) enjoy creating a mixture of music, comprising mostly of dub, reggae, hip-hop and rock. There are also opposing views of the anti and pro-arts lobbies, with the former opposing the opening of new art galleries and the latter wishing for more to boost tourism. Irrespective of whatever result comes out from time to time, those who enjoy art still get their money's worth, and those who don't, simply get busy in so many other activities! The national sport, or obsession, to quote more accurately, is rugby. There are tremendous ups and downs, with the latter being more due to the team not exactly being full of star performers. The 2007 defeat of the All Blacks at the hands of the French led to practically the entire nation coming to the streets and crying their hearts out! But that is just what passion is all about! For those who are concerned, the national real estate boom is still going pretty strong, and Auckland, Christchurch and Wellington are among the world's most expensive cities in terms of housing affordability relative to income. There is also a lot of talk regarding endangered dolphins, treaty settlements, fixed net fishing and didymo (rock snot!) infestation in the waters, lakes and rivers to be specific. And that pretty much sums up the country. Love it, hate it, one just can't ignore it. Right from the high adrenaline activities to the awesome food and liquor combo, to the eccentric and relaxed local population and the raging passion for sports. New Zealand has it all! To go to New Zealand and not subscribe to Matrix international SIM cards is like not having lived up to the tremendous amount of possibilities of flawless connectivity and up to 80% in savings, something not many would want to miss! For more information related to international SIM card, International SIM Card, International communication, international travelling sim cards please visit: - http://www.matrix.in
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