Christchurch, the Garden City, and the Canterbury region are the perfect destination for daredevils. From northern Kaikoura to Waimate in the south, Canterbury is an adventure sports paradise. Hangliding, helibiking, bungee jumping, snowboarding, jetboating, rafting and skydiving get the adrenaline going. Golfing, flightseeing, swimming with dolphins and soaking in thermal pools are more laid-back temptations. Christchurch, a city of parks and gardens, is the country’s third largest urban area.

Both a weekend destination for locals and a magnet for tourists craving other-worldly relaxation, Hanmer Springs is the perfect spot for pampering. The tiny spa town is built around a hot spring that was discovered in the 19th century, and the crisp mountain air has restorative properties of its own.

Wellington boasts a compact downtown area that’s easy to explore on foot and a wealth of architectural styles, from 19th-century wooden cottages to Art Deco masterpieces. Discover the city’s Maori roots at the Museum of Wellington City & Sea and the Museum of New Zealand. Sip coffee and people-watch in lively Courtney Place, or survey the city from scenic Mount Victoria. When the sun goes down on Windy Wellington, take a nocturnal tour of Karori Wildlife Sanctuary to meet some colourful inhabitants.

Sun-drenched and built for fun, Australia's Gold Coast hugs Queensland's southeast coastline with beaches, shimmering high rises, and epic surf breaks. Though it's hedonistic at heart, there's also plenty of opportunities for adventure and family-friendly attractions beyond its well-known party scene.

The jewel of the Mariana Islands, Guam is a vivid tourist destination that offers peaceful white-sand beaches and fascinating dive sites. Entwine yourself with your paramour at Two Lovers Point or immerse yourself in local traditions at the Guam Beach and Culture Park. The caverns and coral reefs of the Piti Bomb Holes Reserve are the perfect places to get acquainted with native sea life. Dance off your day at one of Tumon’s lively dance clubs, or take in an exhilarating production at the SandCastle entertainment complex.