If there was ever a time to move to New Zealand, then November might be it. Supreme Court Associate Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg recently joked about moving to the island nation if Donald Trump is elected president. We have to say ― that’s not a bad idea.
New Zealand is a playground of national parks, coastal towns, epic forests and pristine beaches that date back thousands ― if not millions ― of years. Whether you’re looking to escape the prospect of a Trump presidency or simply get away from your desk, we’d recommend a visit anytime. Here’s why.
1
The beaches are out-of-control gorgeous.
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With more than 9,000 miles of coastline and loads of islands, New Zealand is a wonderland of water sports and sun-soaking.
2
...but don't forget the mountains, too.
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Whether it's here at Mount Roy or on one of New Zealand's other magical peaks, you'll discover volcanos, crater lakes and lava flows during the average trek.
3
It has one of the cheapest cities for living abroad.
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Wellington was named one of the most affordable cities for expats in the annual Cost of Living report from Mercer, a human resources consulting firm.
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4
Locals are incredibly friendly.
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Ask anyone who's visited New Zealand recently, and they'll let you in on a secret: Kiwis might just be the kindest people on the planet.
5
It's a hobbit's paradise.
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Visit the real set of "The Lord of the Rings" and "The Hobbit" movies at Hobbiton, and then tour more majestic filming locations along the coast.
6
THIS is a national park.
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Only in New Zealand will you find more than 11,000 square miles of national parks that span glaciers, volcanoes and yes, even white-sand beaches.
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7
Two words: meat pie.
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What may sound like a questionable snack is actually an obscenely delicious dish that's easy to eat on the go.
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There are six times more sheep than people.
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That was according to the 2014 count, anyway. D'aww, what adorable new neighbors!
9
Sandboarding will be your new workout of choice.
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Have you ever surfed down sand dunes into the sea? (Hint: It totally beats going to the gym.)
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10
The coffee is out of this world.
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Charming hole-in-the-wall coffee shops are a dime a dozen in this culture full of coffee connoisseurs. Try a flat white, and you'll never go back.
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There's a cave full of glow worms, and you can go inside it.
Shaun Jeffers
What's more otherworldly than that?!
12
Ninety Mile Beach.
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Okay, so it's not actually 90 miles long. But it's pretty darn close, and perfect for rugged off-road driving.
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13
It's the ideal country for camping trips.
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Whether it's in the forest or on a fjord, New Zealand is the perfect place to pitch a tent, and driving is the best way to see your surroundings. Pack up the camper van!
14
Rugby will become your new favorite sport.
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Kiwis take their rugby seriously, and many would say it's more fun to watch than American football.
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Everything is pretty much like another planet.
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New Zealand is one big, prehistoric fairy tale, with ancient natural wonders at every turn. Most scientists estimate this tree in Waipoua Forest is at least 2,000 years old. In a country with this rich a history, there's plenty to love.
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