Posted 29 Jan 2010

Alan Dale, the actor who has played parts in Neighbours and US TV shows Ugly Betty and the OC, has advised those on a gap year in New Zealand to visit the country’s tranquil North Island.

In particular, the thespian recommends the east coast, which he finds to be much more peaceful than its western counterpart and a great place to enjoy a boat ride through the crystal waters.

New Zealand is also a "fish-eater’s paradise", Mr Dale wrote in the Daily Mail, so much so that he does not tend to eat it elsewhere.

"In California they are good at steak, but the fish is not so great. But in New Zealand the fish is king," he explained.

Another famous chap to have been inspired by New Zealand is Stephen Fry.

He confessed last autumn that trekking across the country for the BBC wildlife series Last Chance to See prompted him to embark on a healthier lifestyle and become fitter.

Category: Australasia