According to Errol Hunt, the Commissioning Editor for the new Lonely Planet guide, “the fascinating mix of Maori, Polynesian, and Pakeha culture, as well as the nation’s quirky eccentricity and genuine community vibe, is the recipe that makes New Zealand’s personality so attractive.”

“In recent years, New Zealand has been punching well above its weight and demanding to be noticed. Its movies, music, wine, progressive politics and clean green image have been kicking goals around the world, and people have been paying attention in ways the country never dreamed possible.”

While New Zealand’s natural wonders rightly receive high praise throughout the guide, the book also notes that, “… a pretty backdrop is not all NZ has going for it. Genuine friendly locals go out of their way to ensure visitors feel welcome.”

The guidebook features an increased focus on Maori tourism, with regional Maori ‘highlights’ sections offering information on how travellers can respect and immerse themselves in Maori culture.

“New Zealand’s strong indigenous culture – both traditional and contemporary – is something very unique about this country. With this guide we’ve tried to show travellers how to seek out and experience the multi-faceted, ‘living’ culture of Maori New Zealand, rather than see it as ancient history,” said Errol Hunt.

“When they think of New Zealand, most potential visitors think: landscape, sport and the haka. But until they go there, they often don’t realise how incredibly quirky New Zealanders are, with a wicked sense of humour. At the same time, Kiwis are also increasing their reputation for being stylish and modern,” said Hunt.

“Hip, energetic city” Wellington is praised for “its thriving café and entertainment scene, and serious dedication to the arts”. Auckland’s blend of the social, the natural, the cultural, and edible – along with great local fashion designers – and strong attractions, while Christchurch is described as a “thoroughly modern NZ city” behind its picturesque Englishness.

The new edition of the guidebook doesn’t pull any punches and contains the trademark honesty and opinion Lonely Planet is renowned for. But praise is also lavished when due. For example on “bright, attractive” Nelson as “one of NZ’s most liveable cities”, Queenstown’s “atmospheric restaurants, laid-back cafes and excellent boutiques” combined with “spellbinding views”, and Dunedin, an “increasingly cosmopolitan city”. Other destinations don’t fare so well, such as Kaitaia, “the highlight of no-one’s trip to NZ”, and “shabby little Bluff”.