Another welcomed question

A member asked me if there is a difference between the North and South Islands. Firstly can i say that there is certainly a friendly rivalry between the two especially on the sporting fields. This rivalry is similar, but on a lesser scale, to that which exists NZ - Australia and also USA - Canada. We North Islanders jokingly say that the South Island only stays there because of our telephone lines hanging on to them

Just a quick mention of the Islands. Everybody understandably refers to the North and South Islands forgetting all about the third one. If you look back at your maps and look down at the bottom you will see there is actually a third 'little' island. Stewart Island famous for its top of the line Oysters.

Now is there a difference North and South? Yes there is.

The south is considerably larger in land mass and as a staunch North Islander I am loathe to admit that it has a wider range of scenic beauty. The South Island has the beautiful mountain range which runs down the West Coast. These are called the Southern Alps but we Kiwis often refer to them as the Remarkables. They have been often referred to as being similar to the Swiss Alps with most higher regions being snow covered. The South Island has two cities which are very much other country orientated. Christchurch is very British influenced and Dunedin down the lower end is a very Scottish influence. Auckland in the North Island is by far the most Metropolitan and in fact houses almost 1/3 of our total population.

It is fair to say that each Island has an enormous amount to offer the visitor and for me to try and cover all that is on show as I would love to would take a book so will not attempt here.

Till next time..............