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Where to stay in New Zealand: Best areas for travelers

• Auckland: The CityLife Auckland, the President Hotel and the Crowne Plaza Auckland are just some of the popular hotels here. Stay at any of these places and roll out of bed with all the energy you need to explore Sky Tower and other intriguing attractions close by.

• Christchurch: If you only have one night in town, be sure to stop by New Brighton Beach. It's one of the many reasons so many travelers choose to travel to this destination. There are loads of fantastic places to lay your head here too, including the Camelot Cathedral Square Hotel, the Novotel Christchurch Cathedral Square and the Distinction Christchurch Hotel.

• Rotorua: It's well known that being close to nature is good for your mind, body and soul. Luckily, there are lots of natural attractions to discover here, including Lake Rotorua, Lake Rotoiti and Lake Tarawera. Why not stay an extra night or two and visit Lake Tikitapu, Lake Okareka and Kuirau Park too? Choosing the right hotel will make your vacation even more enjoyable. Among the best places to stay are the Holiday Rotorua, the Grand Treasure Hotel and the Astray Motel & Backpackers.

• Wellington: If Te Papa (Museum of New Zealand) is on your must-visit list (and it ought to be), you'll want to spend at least a few nights here. With top-rated stays like the InterContinental Wellington, the Travelodge Hotel Wellington and the CityLife Wellington to select from, it won't be difficult to organize a wonderful escape.

• Hamilton: Beyond its lively downtown area, this destination features some lovely nature-based attractions. Escape the traffic and noise for the slower pace of Hamilton Gardens, Waingaro Hot Springs and Lake Rotoroa. If you're in town for a little while longer, you can also slow things down at Whale Bay, Wairere Falls and Bridal Veil Falls. Recommended stays here include the ibis Hamilton Tainui, the Novotel Tainui Hamilton and the Days Hotel & Suites Hamilton.