Win a free trip New Zealand and experience one of the world's best diving spots

Kathleen Wong, USA TODAY
·2 min read

If you've had New Zealand, or Aotearoa, on your travel bucket list, you may just be getting your lucky break.

Tourism New Zealand and the Professional Association of Diving Instructors (PADI) are giving away a free, four-day trip for one American to have "the ultimate New Zealand underwater experience" in Northland, according to a press release.

The winner will get free roundtrip flights to and from New Zealand, ground transportation, hotel accommodations, and a Discover Scuba Experience at Poor Knights Islands with Dive! Tutukaka, a diving charter company, as well as merchandise.

"It's no secret our natural environment is part of what makes us an extraordinary destination to explore. But there is more here than meets the eye; our unique geography and climate create wondrous worlds above and below the surface for those travelers curious to discover all that Aotearoa, New Zealand has to offer," René de Monchy, Tourism New Zealand Chief Executive, said.

The four-day trip is focused on exploring the waters of The Poor Knight's Islands.
The four-day trip is focused on exploring the waters of The Poor Knight's Islands.

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The Poor Knights Islands, or Tawhiti Rahi, are often hailed as one of the best diving spots in the world. The area is a marine reserve with many subtropical fish species that can only be found in New Zealand waters. The topography of the reserve is also stunning to explore, featuring some of the world's largest sea caves, sea arches and dramatic sea cliffs.

"The waters of Aotearoa are a special place for me personally, having had the privilege to explore above and beneath the surface as both an adventure seeker and a diver,” Drew Richardson, PADI President and CEO, said in a statement.

The Poor Knight's Islands are part of a marine reserve where marine wildlife is protected.
The Poor Knight's Islands are part of a marine reserve where marine wildlife is protected.

"I'll never forget the first time I experienced the Poor Knights Islands – the crown jewel of the Tutukaka coastline."

Those living in the U.S. can enter the sweepstakes online starting at midnight on March 29 until 11:59 p.m. ET on April 26. Applicants must be 18 years or older to apply.

As of May 2022, New Zealand reopened its borders and has been working toward recovering its tourism industry.

Kathleen Wong is a travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Hawaii. You can reach her at kwong@usatoday.com

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: How to win a free trip to New Zealand, one of the best diving spots

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