The People’s Choice

Aotearoa earned its second consecutive “Top Destination for the Coming Year” award in the annual poll of Lonely Planet staff around the world. According to global travel editor, Don George, for one country to top the poll two years in a row is “pretty extraordinary.” He describes NZ as a “perfect storm of spectacular pristine scenery, hospitable citizenry, compelling culture, perceived geopolitical safety and free global big-screen advertising courtesy of Lord of the Rings.” Earlier in the month, the Washington Post listed NZ 8th in a line-up of 10 hot international destinations for 2004.