Marlborough, Nelson Tasman & West Coast Must-Do's 2020

MUST YOUR FREE COPY

DOs

Featuring • Regional Maps & Routes • Things to See and Do • Places to Stay

Includes: Golden Bay, Buller, Central West Coast & Glacier Country

aatraveller.co.nz

Show Your Card & Save

Automobile club cardholders that have a “Show Your Card & Save” logo on the back of their card can enjoy special discounts on our services.* SAVE 10% on Interislander saver change fares and Scenic Train’s flexi fares by entering the promocode SHOWSC1. or SAVE 20% on Interislander easy change fares and Scenic Train’s flexi plus fares by entering the promocode SHOWEC1 .

Book now at greatjourneysofnz.co.nz

*A valid membership card with the logo must be presented at check-in. Excludes the period between 15th December and 31st January. Terms and Conditions apply. See greatjourneysofnz.co.nz for details.

Marlborough, Nelson Tasman & West Coast

in the places you love, with the people who matter the most

For over 30 years TOP 10 have been helping holidaymakers’ create great memories in over 45 spectacular locations throughout New Zealand.

With a range of accommodation options, all our Parks also offer you plenty of space, children’s play facilities, BBQ areas plus indoor and outdoor recreational areas.

10% SAVINGS When you join our Club!

TOP 10 Holiday Parks to love in this region: Blenheim Fox Glacier Franz Josef Greymouth Seaside Motueka Nelson City Picton Pohara Beach Ross Beach Westport

0800 521 014 0800 521 106 0800 521 070 0800 521 035 0800 521 028 0800 106 357 0800 521 009 0800 521 041 0800 867 024 0800 521 047

Join at 1

Marlborough, Nelson Tasman & West Coast

63 STORES SOUTH ISLAND WIDE 2

Marlborough, Nelson Tasman & West Coast Kayaking Abel Tasman © AbelTasman.com BELOW: Fur seal, West Coast © Staci Offwood

A

Welcome to MARLBOROUGH, NELSON TASMAN & WEST COAST

ISBN > 978-1-98-852337-8 © The New Zealand Automobile Association Incorporated 2019. All rights reserved.

AA and the AA logo and the Tourism pictogram are registered trademarks and the colour combination YELLOW & BLACK are trademarks of The New Zealand Automobile Association Incorporated.

While every care has been taken in the compilation of this guide, the publishers cannot accept responsibility for inaccuracies or changes since going to press, or for consequential loss arising from such changes or other inaccuracies, or any other loss direct or consequential arising in connection with information provided in the publication. There is no requirement for advertisers in this guide to provide discounts for AA Members; some individual advertisers offer concessions and details of these are indicated in their listings.

All content in advertisements was provided by advertisers.

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced (except brief passages for the purpose of review), stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopy, recording or otherwise, without prior written permission of the publishers.

Published in September 2019 by AA Tourism Publishing, Level 1, Building 2, 61 Constellation Drive, Mairangi Bay, North Shore 0632.

PO Box 101 001, North Shore 0745.

T. +64 9 966 8720 F. +64 9 966 8721 E. tourism.inquiries@aa.co.nz W. www.aatraveller.co.nz Advertising Enquiries: T. +64 9 966 8720 E. tourism.sales@aa.co.nz COVER IMAGE: Abel Tasman National Park © Getty Images

magnet for naturelovers, adventureseekers and those in need of some rest and relaxation, the Upper South Island and West Coast regions are also loved by those who appreciate fine wine, an innovative culinary scene and a wide array of cultural attractions.

From Marlborough, Nelson Tasman and all the way down the West Coast, this guide provides vital information on activities and attractions, as well as a raft of accommodation options to suit your style and your budget.

Check out the things to see and do, view the maps and get ready to experience the very best these awesome regions have to offer.

CONTENTS 5 MARLBOROUGH / NELSON TASMAN REGIONAL MAP

18 NELSON TASMAN & GOLDEN BAY

36 Reefton • Springs Junction

20 Nelson City

37 CENTRAL WEST COAST

6 VISITOR INFORMATION

23 Abel Tasman National Park

37 Greymouth

7 WEST COAST REGIONAL MAP

27 Kaiteriteri

10 MARLBOROUGH 12 Marlborough Sounds 12 Havelock 14 Picton 15 Blenheim

27 Golden Bay 29 Collingwood • Nelson Lakes 30 Murchison 32 WEST COAST 34 BULLER DISTRICT 34 Little Wanganui

17 Spring Creek

34 Westport

17 Kēkerengū

35 Punakāiki

41 Lake Brunner 41 Arthur’s Pass 42 Hokitika 48 Whataroa 48 GLACIER COUNTRY 48 Franz Josef Glacier 52 Fox Glacier 53 Lake Matheson 53 Paringa 54 Haast

3

Marlborough, Nelson Tasman & West Coast

5 WAYS TO MAKE THE MOST OF

Marlborough, Nelson Tasman & the West Coast

Te Pukatea Campsite, Abel Tasman © AbelTasman.com

DON’T STOP UNTIL YOU’VE SQUEEZED OUT EVERY LAST DROP OF MARLBOROUGH, NELSON TASMAN AND THE WEST COAST’S BEST BITS

A ROOM WITH A VIEW Peel back the door of your tent and admire million dollar morning views. Abel Tasman National Park is peppered with campsites fronting its many golden beaches and there is simply no better place to wake up. Days can be spent on the water: kayaking, sailing, swimming, and with the Tonga Island Marine Reserve in the heart of the park, scuba diving too. The next day, wake up to a new view, by a different beach, for another day of perfection.

LEFT: Exploring Franz Josef Glacier © Petr Hlavacek INSET: Marlborough Sounds © Destination Marlborough

4

CABLE BAY ADVENTURE PARK Get ready to burn energy at Cable Bay Adventure Park. Home to the world’s longest flying fox, Skywire, you can fly over the forest, or through it as part of a guided quad bike tour. Budding SWAT wannabes can try their hand at paintball, or pick up a bow and arrow in Archery Park. Go mountain biking, or e-biking if you need extra whoosh in your wheels, or choose four hooves and join a horse trek.

Pet the animals, feed the eels, or jump aboard an amphibious eightwheeled vehicle called Argo. If your idea of fun involves something with a caffeine kick, there’s also a fully licensed café on site.

BUCKET-LIST HELICOPTER TOURS Soar over the Franz Josef or Fox glaciers and stare into the icy blue creases and blinding-white mountains. Snow landings are what dreams are made of, and there’s nothing quite as satisfying as being the first boot to break untouched snow. Scenic helicopter tours cover every startling landscape, from Greymouth to Hokitika and both glaciers, gliding over lakes, beaches and rainforest. These are pinch yourself moments you’ll reminisce about long after landing.

FISH, CHIPS & SUNSETS The lucky residents of Picton must feel like they’re on a perennial holiday, such is the vibe here.

The clean and immaculate Picton Foreshore is the town’s showpiece, complete with a paved boulevard, a sandy beach, lawn, playground and a line of sun-drenched palms. Come here late afternoon for the last dip of the day, then grab a bag of fresh fish and chips and watch the sun set over the Marlborough Sounds.

GRAB A BAG OF FRESH FISH AND CHIPS AND WATCH THE SUN SET OVER THE MARLBOROUGH SOUNDS. BEHIND THE SCENES AT BULLER GORGE We say Buller Gorge and you think of New Zealand’s longest swing bridge. Although not wrong, it’s easy to get blindsided by this 110m crowd pleaser and forgo other highlights in the area. Walks explore all sorts of fascinations, including the famous White Creek fault line where the ground instantly rose 4.5 metres after an earthquake. Ranging between 15 minutes and one hour, meander through the forest, discover native wildlife and watch daring kayakers take on the precarious falls of the Buller River.

Marlborough, Nelson Tasman & West Coast

MARLBOROUGH / NELSON TASMAN: REGIONAL MAP

Va ll e y

Cape Farewell Pillar Point Farewell Spit F ar ew el l S Wharariki Farewell Spit pit WESTHAVEN/ Beac h Lighthouse TE TAI TAPU Puponga MARINE RESERVE t Bush End Point e Inl anui an g Camping in Pakawau Wh Golden Bay

r re Ao

Tarakohe Totaranui Pohara Awaroa Beach

TONGA ISLAND MARINE RESERVE

Motueka

Tasman Mapua Upper Moutere

Oparara Karamea

Dovedale Little Wanganui

Tapawera

Kohatu

6

Skywire

NELSON

Stoke Tahunanui

Richmond

Wakefield

6

n Ri v e

Adm ir

a t ar Kenepuru To Queen Charlotte Head d( n u Track Portage tte So Te Mahia rlo a Int h C Mistletoe Bay ueen to eri sl AnakiwaQWaikawa W e an lli n d F gt o err n y

O

Kawatiri

River

Buller Gorge 6

Buller Gorge

Bul le r

6

Wairau Valley

62 6

Gowanbridge

Murchison Lake Rotoroa 65

63

Marlborough Food & Wine Festival Clifford Bay

Marlborough

Tophouse

Saint Arnaud

Blenheim

Seddon

ir a u Wa

Howard Junction

Lake Grassmere/ Kapara Te Hau Cape Campbell

Lake Grassmere Ward

Lake Rotoiti

Rainbow Ski Field

Cook Strait

1

we

er Riv

Picton

Tuamarina Spring Creek

Renwick

MOUNT RICHMOND FOREST PARK 63

i) nu

6

Pelorus Bridge Scenic Reserve rin Wak a m a

Brothers Island

Endeavour Inlet

Rai Valley Havelock Pelorus Bridge Canvastown Linkwater Koromiko

r

Nelson, Tasman & Motupiko Golden Bay

Nelson Market

60

Brightwater

Cable Bay Whangamoa

Okiwi Bay Duncan Bay

ST RA IT

Mariri

Oparara Basin

Marlborough Sounds

OK

yR

Riwaka

ay

Tasman Bay

Marahau Kaiteriteri

60

Upper Takaka

KAHURANGI NATIONAL PARK

Kayaking the Abel Tasman

yB alt

O

ph

Scotts Beach

French Pass

C

a He

ABEL TASMAN NATIONAL PARK

Riv er

Takaka

Heaphy Track (NZ Great Walk)

r

Rangitoto ki te Tonga (D’Urville Island)

Separation Point

60

a

Riv e

Stephens Island (Takapourewa)

Cape Stephens

Golden Bay

Bainham

Te Waikoropupu Springs Scenic Reserve

Le

KAHURANGI MARINE RESERVE is w

NORTH-WEST NELSON FOREST PARK

30km

TASMAN SEA

Collingwood

e

Kahurangi Point

0

1

Nelson Lakes National Park

Kekerengu

NELSON LAKES NATIONAL PARK

VICTORIA FOREST PARK

Regional Boundary Lines

MAP REFERENCE AA Centre SH 1-9

Sealed

Unsealed

SH 10-99

7

Lewis Pass 7

Major Roads

Lewis Pass

Whale Watching

Railway

Eat crayfish in Kaikoura

State Highway Shield

Kaikoura

LAKE SUMNER FOREST PARK

SOUTH PACIFIC OCEAN

Hanmer Springs

Hanmer Springs

HANMER FOREST PARK 7A

1

HIKURANGI MARINE RESERVE

7

1

Must-Do’s i-SITE Visitor Centre DOC Information/ Visitor Centre

Domestic Airport Dive

LAKE SUMNER FOREST PARK

Waiau 7

Culverden

The Classic NZ Wine Trail NZ Cycle Trail Te Araroa Trail

Golf Lighthouse Skiing Tramping

5

Marlborough, Nelson Tasman & West Coast

VISITOR INFO

AA CENTRES

Useful information and valuable tips to help you on your travels around New Zealand.

BANKING / TRAVELLERS’ CHEQUES Banks open Monday-Friday (except public holidays), 9.30am-4.30pm and Saturdays and Sundays in some shopping malls.

Automatic Teller Machines operate on a card/PIN number system. Use of EFTPOS (Electronic Funds Transfer at Point of Sale) is common.

IMPORTANT NUMBERS

BUSINESS HOURS Offices and businesses operate MondayFriday, 8.30am-5pm; some tourist agencies and airlines have longer hours. Petrol (gas) stations often open 24 hours, stocking food and newspapers. Shops are usually open 9am to 5.30pm Monday-Friday.

Supermarkets, grocery stores, some large retail chains, shopping malls and markets also operate Saturdays and Sundays.

International directory assistance................................................0172

Emergency services FREE CALL.................................................. 111 Local operator.......................................... 010 International operator.........................0170 NZ directory assistance......................... 018

National direct dialling full area code (with the 0 prefix) and local number.

International direct dialling 00 followed by country code, area code & local number.

BLENHEIM 23 Maxwell Rd Ph: +64 3 578 3399

NELSON 45 Halifax St Ph: +64 3 548 8339

i-SITE VISITOR CENTRES BLENHEIM 8 Sinclair St www.marlboroughnz.com

GREYMOUTH 164 Mackay St www.westcoasttravel.co.nz

PICTON The Foreshore www.marlboroughnz.com

HOKITIKA 36 Weld St www.hokitika.org

MOTUEKA 20 Wallace St www.motuekaisite.co.nz

REEFTON 67-69 Broadway www.reefton.co.nz

NELSON Millers Acre Centre 77 Trafalgar St www.nelsonNZ.com

WESTPORT Coaltown Museum, 123 Palmerston St www.westport.nz

FRANZ JOSEF 63 Cron St www.glaciercountry.co.nz

Look for the mark of Quality Qualmark is New Zealand Tourism’s official mark of quality. When a business displays a Qualmark rating, you can be sure that the business has been independently assessed and has met strict quality standards. The Sustainable Tourism Business Awards (Gold, Silver or Bronze) also gives a guide to travellers to recognise the business’s performance against the Sustainable Tourism Business criterion.

6

Go to www.aatraveller.co.nz for travel ideas, itineraries, online maps and time and distance calculator.

Marlborough, Nelson Tasman & West Coast

Motueka MAP REFERENCE

KAHURANGI MARINE RESERVE

AA Centre Motorway

Sealed

SH 1-9

Unsealed

Oparara Basin

State Highway Shield

Little Wanganui

50km

1

Must-Do’s DOC Information/ Visitor Centre

Buller Gorge

67

Bu ll e r

Westport

Domestic Airport Golf

67A

Cape Foulwind

Lighthouse Tramping

6

Charleston

Pancake Rocks & Blowholes Punakaiki

Central West Coast

NZ Cycle Trail Te Araroa Trail

Barrytown Rapahoe Dunollie

FOREST PARK

Regional Boundary Lines

Kumara Beach

H ok

Riv er

itik a

7 LAKE SUMNER FOREST PARK

Arthur’s Pass 73

L Kaniere

CHRISTCHURCH

Lake Coleridge

Pukekura

Lake Heron

Okarito Lagoon

77

Southern Lights

Ashburton

The Hermitage

Mount Cook

Lake Tekapo

Church of the Good Shepherd

8

Haast

Haast Pass

1

79

Fairlie 8

R a n git at a Riv er

Temuka

Pleasant Point Timaru

83

Waimate 82 83

8

Oamaru’s Victorian Precinct

Lake Hawea Rob Roy Glacier Track

SOUTH PACIFIC OCEAN

1

Lake Benmore

Omarama Lake Hawea

Geraldine

Twizel 8

6

Burkes Pass

80

Lake Ohau

6

HAUTAI MARINE RES

1

Aoraki Mt Cook

National Park WESTLAND/ TAI POUTINI Aoraki/Mount Cook Lake NATIONAL 3754 Tekapo PARK Aoraki/

Lake Wanaka

Akaroa

Methven

AORAKI/ MOUNT Franz Josef & COOK Fox Glaciers NATIONAL L.Matheson PARK

Lake Pukaki

MOUNT ASPIRING NATIONAL PARK

75

77

Lake Paringa

Jackson Bay

Kaiapoi

Whataroa

State Highway 6

Lake Moeraki

Rangiora

World Christchurch’s Buskers Festival Street Art

Harihari

Fox Glacier

TAUPARIKAKA MARINE RES H a as t Ri ve r

Amberley

TranzAlpine

Franz Josef/Waiau

Bruce Bay

Culverden

Waiau Cheviot

Akaroa

Westland Glacier Okarito Lagoon Country Okarito The Lake Matheson Walk

7

Hokitika Gorge

Ross

WAIAU GLACIER COAST MARINE RESERVE

Jacksons Otira

Kokatahi

6

7A

ARTHUR’S PASS NATIONAL PARK

L Brunner (Moana) 73

1

Lake Sumner

Paroa Moana

Hokitika

Hanmer Springs

Hanmer Springs

Springs Junction

Haupiri

Bell Hill

Kaikoura

Lake Tennyson

Maruia

Totara Flat

Brunner

Kumara Junction Kumara

TASMAN SEA

7

7

Nelson Lakes National Park

65

Reefton

Greymouth South Beach

NELSON LAKES NATIONAL PARK

69 VICTORIA

Ahaura

6

Murchison

Carters Beach

Punakaiki

PUNAKAIKI MARINE RESERVE

Marlborough Food & Wine Festival

Saint Arnaud

6

PAPAROA NATIONAL PARK

Blenheim

63

6

Granity Waimangaroa

r ve Ri

International Airport

6

Mokihinui Seddonville

Buller District

i-SITE Visitor Centre

Pelorus Bridge Scenic Reserve

MOUNT RICHMOND FOREST PARK

SH 10-99 0

6

Brightwater Richmond Wakefield

Karamea

Major Roads Railway

6

NELSON

60

KAHURANGI NATIONAL PARK

Oparara

Nelson Market

Oamaru

Wanaka 8A

85

1 WEST COAST: REGIONAL MAP

Moeraki Boulders

Fleur’s Place

7

Marlborough, Nelson Tasman & West Coast

Never miss a beat

Auckland 105.4FM, Christchurch 90.1FM/1593AM, Hamilton 105.0FM, Dunedin 104.6FM/954AM, Gisborne 88.3FM, Invercargill 92.4FM, Kapiti 95.9FM, Napier EASY 1584AM, Nelson 100.8FM, New LISTENING Plymouth 1359AM & 1323AM, Palmerston North 1548AM, Rotorua 96.7FM, Russell 89.6FM, Tauranga 97.4FM, Wanaka 94.6FM, Wellington 95.7FM, Whangarei 900AM

Alexandra 95.1FM, Ashburton 98.1FM/873AM, Auckland 89.4FM/1080AM, Blenheim 92.1FM, Christchurch 100.1FM/1098AM, Dunedin 1044AM, Gisborne 945AM, NEWS/ Greymouth 103.5FM, Hamilton TALKBACK 97.0FM/1296AM, Invercargill 864AM, Kapiti 89.5FM, Masterton 846AM, Napier 90.3FM/1278AM, Nelson 1341AM, New Plymouth 96.4FM/1053AM, Oamaru 1395AM, Palmerston North 100.2FM/927AM, Queenstown 89.6FM, Rotorua 747AM, Taupo 96.0FM, Tauranga 90.2FM/1008AM, Timaru 1152AM, Tokoroa 1413AM, Wanaka 90.6FM, Wanganui 1197AM, Wellington 89.3FM/1053AM, Westport 1287AM, Whangarei 1026AM & Mid North 1215AM & Far North 1026AM

FESTIVAL/ ALTERNATIVE/ ROCK/DANCE/ HIP HOP

HIP HOP & RnB

BEST OF THE 70S, 80S & 90S

Auckland 99.0FM, Blenheim 94.5FM, Christchurch 106.5FM & Sumner 89.3FM, Doubtless Bay 105.1FM Dunedin 106.2FM, Gisborne 105.3FM, Hamilton 96.2FM, Invercargill 93.2FM, Napier 99.9FM, Nelson 90.4FM, New Plymouth 90.8FM, Palmerston North 105.8FM, Rotorua 94.3FM, Russell 93.6FM, Taupo 92.8FM, Tauranga 91.0FM, Wellington 93.3FM, Whangarei & Far North 93.2FM Auckland 95.8FM, Christchurch 93.3/88.0FM, Dunedin 88.6FM, Gisborne 106.1FM, Hawkes Bay 96.7FM, New Plymouth 106.0FM, Rotorua 89.5FM, Tauranga 99.0FM, Whangarei 106.0FM

Auckland 98.2FM, Christchurch 91.7FM, Nelson 104.0FM, Wellington 93.7FM, Whangarei 89.2FM

Auckland 91.0FM, Blenheim 90.5FM, Christchurch 91.3FM & Sumner 90.9FM, Dunedin 95.8FM, Gisborne 107.4FM & 107.7FM, Hamilton 89.8FM, Invercargill 95.6FM, TOP 40 Kapiti 91.1FM, Masterton 94.3FM, Napier 95.9FM, Nelson 96.8FM, New Plymouth 98.8FM, Queenstown 88.8FM, Palmerston North 90.6FM, Rotorua 98.3FM, Taupo 90.4FM, Tauranga 89.4FM, Timaru 96.3FM, Wanganui 96.8FM, Wellington 90.9FM, Whangarei 94.8FM

Alexandra 99.9FM, Ashburton 89.3FM, Auckland 97.4FM, Blenheim 96.9FM, Christchurch 97.7FM & Sumner 96.5FM, Doubtless Bay 105.9FM Dunedin 89.4FM/96.5FM , Gisborne 90.9FM, Greymouth 90.7FM, Hamilton ALL YOUR FAVOURITE 98.6FM, Hokitika 93.1FM, Invercargill 98.8FM, Kapiti 92.7FM, Kaikoura HITS 91.5FM, Masterton 90.3FM, Napier 89.5FM, Nelson 89.6FM, New Plymouth 90.0FM, Oamaru 98.4FM, Palmerston North 97.8FM, Picton 89.1FM, Queenstown 90.4FM, Reefton 97.5FM, Russell 106.1FM, Rotorua 97.5FM/90.8FM, South Taranaki 91.2FM, South Westland 90.5FM, Takaka 1269AM, Taupo 96.8FM, Tauranga 95.0FM, Te Anau 90.4FM, Timaru 94.7FM/98.7FM, Tokoroa 97.3FM, Wanaka 96.2FM, Wairoa 99.7FM, Wanganui 89.6FM, Wellington 90.1FM, Westport 90.9FM, Whangarei 95.6FM/96.4FM

Ashburton 702AM, Auckland 1332AM, Blenheim 98.5FM, Christchurch 1503AM, Dunedin 693AM, Greymouth 89.9FM, Hamilton 792AM, Invercargill 558AM, Kapiti 1377AM, Masterton 91.9FM, Napier 1125AM, Nelson 549AM, New SPORT Plymouth 774AM, Palmerston North 1089AM, Rotorua 1350AM, Taupo 107.7FM, Tauranga 1521AM, Timaru 1494AM, Wanganui 1062AM, Wellington 1503AM/93.7FM, Whangarei 729AM

FAVOURITES FROM THE 70S TO TODAY

Hawera 88.2FM, Mid-Canterbury 92.5/96.5FM, New Plymouth 87.8FM, Southland 94.8FM, South Otago 91.3FM, Taranaki 1557AM, West Otago 95.2FM

Millions of Songs, Thousands of Stations, ALL 100% FREE

WWW.IHEARTRADIO.CO.NZ | DOWNLOAD THE FREE APP 8

Marlborough, Nelson Tasman & West Coast

SOUTH ISLAND MAP

Cape Farewell Farewell Spit

Golden Bay

s

Okiwi Bay Hira

60

Oparara

Mapua

Karamea Bight

Rai Valley

NELSON

6

Little Wanganui

Kenepuru Head Te Mahia Portage Havelock Waikawa

Picton

Richmond

1

Tuamarina Spring Creek

6

Riv er

Wairau Valley

Buller

Westport

Cape Foulwind

Granity

67

Waimangaroa

Buller Gorge Swingbridge 6

St Arnaud

nd

Inte rFe Isla rry nd

IT RA

Blenheim

Lake Grassmere/ Kapara Te Hau Cape Campbell

Rainbow Ski Area

Lake Rotoroa 69

Punakaiki

S tte rl o ha

Lake Rotoiti

Murchison

Inangahua

62

Seddon Lake Grassmere

63

67A

Carters Beach

Renwick

63

6

C

ST

Motueka

OK

Kaiteriteri

d un So

CO

Bay

Marahau

MARLBOROUGH SOUNDS

French Pass (Anaru)

Tasman

en

Ngarua Caves

Oparara Basin

Karamea

Rangitoto ki te Tonga (D’Urville Island)

Totaranui

Pohara

Pe lo ru

Takaka

ue

Tata Beach

Bainham

Q

Pakawau Collingwood

Kekerengu 1

65

Reefton 6

Ikamatua

TASMAN

Rapahoe

SEA

Ross

Lake Coleridge Lake Heron

Fox Glacier

Mayfield

Lake Ohau Alpine Village

Lake Wanaka Lake Hawea

er Riv er oto v

Glenorchy

Arrowtown 94

8B

Remarkables Ski Field

6

Lauder Omakau

Clyde

Ranfurly

W ait ak

8

94

Roxburgh

94

Lake Onslow

Middlemarch

Balfour

Waikouaiti Karitane

90

Tapanui

8

96

Tuatapere

Winton

Otautau

99 98

Kaitangata Kaka Point

Wyndham

Tokanui M at

y

au

Ferr

Codfish Island

Fortrose Waikawa Riv

Ruapuke Island

Halfmoon Bay (Oban) Paterson Inlet

Rakiura/ Stewart Island

er

C atli

ns

Motorway

Nugget Point

Pounawea

INVERCARGILL ra

MAP REFERENCE AA Centre

Balclutha

Clinton

Owaka

Bluff

Mason Bay

93

1

1

DUNEDIN

Milton

Mataura

Edendale

Wallacetown Riverton/ Aparima

Portobello

1

1 96

Otago Peninsula

88

1

Gore

Lake Poteriteri

86

Lawrence

Mandeville

Port Chalmers

Waitati

Lake Mahinerangi

Riversdale 94

Moeraki

Palmerston

87

Millers Flat

Mosgiel 6

OCEAN

1

Lake Monowai Lake Hauroko

PACIFIC

Hampden 85

Waikaia

Lumsden

SOUTH

Waitaki Bridge

Oamaru Maheno Herbert Waianakarua

Au

Ettrick 97

hao Riv er

Glenavy

Riv er

Danseys Pass (North)

a-

95

Cl ut h a River / M at

Lake Roxburgh

Te Anau

Mossburn

i

Alexandra Kingston

Manapouri

Naseby

85

W ai

82

Duntroon

83

Danseys Pass

Becks Oturehua

Cromwell

6

Bannockburn

6A

Lake Wakatipu

North Mavora Lake

Waimate 82

Lake Dunstan

Frankton

Queenstown

1

Lake Waitaki

St Bathans

6

Canterbury Bight

Timaru

8

8A Snow Farm NZ

Banks Peninsula

St Andrews

Kurow

Cardrona Alpine Resort

Akaroa

Ashburton River/ Hakatere

Washdyke

Otematata

Lindis Pass

Lake Hawea

84

Little River Birdlings Flat

Temuka

8

Lake Aviemore

83

CHRISTCHURCH

Sumner Lyttelton Governors Bay 75

Southbridge

Bay

Rakaia River

79

Pleasant Point

Twizel

8

74

73

Rakaia

Pegasus

Waimakariri River

New Brighton Beach

Winchester

Omarama

Lake McKerrow/ Whakatipu Waitai

Homer Tunnel

Belfast

Templeton Hororata Rolleston Burnham Tai Tapu Dunsandel

77

Geraldine

Burkes Fairlie Pass

Lake Benmore

Wanaka

Kaiapoi

Waikuku Beach Pegasus Woodend

Lake Opuha 8

Lake Ruataniwha

Lake Ohau

Makarora

Sh

Cust

Darfield

72

79

Lake Pukaki Ohau Snow Field

6

Lake Alabaster/ Wawahi Waka

72

Ashburton

Mt Dobson Ski Field

Lake Tekapo

80

Mt Brewster .

2423

Leithfield Beach

71

1

Lake Tekapo

Haast Pass/ Tioripatea

Lake Wilmot

Methven 72

72

Sheffield

77

Mount Somers

Lake Camp

Lake Paringa

Lake Moeraki

Haast

Mt Aspiring / Tititea .

3033

Springfield

Glentunnel

Hurunui River

Amberley

Rangiora

Oxford

Mount Cook

Knights Point

H aa st R ive r

Big Bay

73

Rakaia Gorge

Lake Clearwater

Mt Tasman 3498 .

3754 .

Aoraki / Mt Cook Aoraki/

6

Bruce Bay Lake Paringa

Mount Hutt Ski Field

Domett

Waipara

n

Whataroa Lake Mapourika

1

Waikari

Craigieburn

Lake Coleridge

Waiau River

Cheviot

7

e

Harihari

Franz Josef/Waiau

Lake Manapouri

Waipara Valley Tr a nz

lway Rai

Okarito Lagoon

Lake Matheson

Doubtful Sound / Patea

Arthur’s Pass

Hawkswood Parnassus

Rotherham

Hurunui Hawarden

Al p i

Otago Goldfields Heritage Trail

Lake Te Anau

Culverden

Hokitika Gorge

Pukekura

Waiau

Jacksons

Arthur’s Pass

Lake Ianthe/Matahi

Kaikoura Kaikoura Peninsula

Mt Lyford Village

Hanmer Springs

The Lakes

Otira

Lake Kaniere

6

Milford Sound

7A

7

Lake Sumner 73

Inland Scenic Route 72

Milford Sound / Piopiotahi

Moana

Kumara

Hokitika

Mount Lyford Ski Field

Mt Lyford

Lake Brunner

H okitik a Rive r

Lewis Pass

Lake Hochstetter

South Beach

Kumara Junction

Maruia Springs

Springs Junction

7

Greymouth

Alpine Pacific Touring Route

7

Totara Flat Ahaura

Blackball

Co

t as

0 0

Scale

50 km 30 miles

Sealed

Unsealed

SH 1-9 SH 10-99 Main Roads Railway/Rail Tunnel State Highway Shield

1

i-SITE Visitor Centre Information Centre DOC Visitor Centre International Airport Dive Sites Skiing Tramping

9

Marlborough

MARLBOROUGH – BRILLIANT EVERY DAY

Marvellous

Marlborough

10

PAGE 5 - REGIONAL MAP

Marlborough

SCORING ITSELF ONE-FIFTH OF NEW ZEALAND’S ENTIRE COASTLINE, MARLBOROUGH HAS ALWAYS HAD A STRONG AFFINITY WITH THE WATER. The Sounds themselves are a collection of sunken river valleys that succumbed to raising sea levels over 10,000 years ago. The pull of what lies beneath this vast expanse of water has always compelled humans, and the opportunities to explore the region both above and below its surface are endless.

Hiring a kayak, bike or even a yacht will put you in an attractive position to experience the magic of Marlborough’s marine life and vineyard trails, while a dive below presents an entirely different perspective. From the wreck of the world-famous Mikhail Lermontov ocean liner, to rocky reefs shaped over centuries, this underwater

odyssey brings the past to the very tip of your nose.

Queen Charlotte Track offers a dazzling 70km journey by foot or by bike. Pest-free islands such as Motuara, Long, Blumine and Allports all teem with bird life, and the mussels plucked straight from the ocean arrive hot, steaming and fragrant on your plate.

Tour distinguished vineyards on the Marlborough Wine Trail, discover secret bays visited by dolphins and orca and walk the beautiful Snout Track. You’ll be lost for words when you encounter this incredible place.

But very few are needed when your lips are busy sampling world-renowned wines.

Cycling through the winery © Destination Marlborough

11

Marlborough

Spectacular Sounds

Looking out over Marlborough Sounds © Destination Marlborough INSET: Bottlenose dolphins in the Marlborough Sounds © E-Ko Tours

WHEN THE FOUR SONS OF RANGI, THE SKY FATHER, TRAVELLED TO THE HEAVENS TO MEET RANGI’S WIFE PAPATUANUKU,

WALK OR CYCLE ON THE QUEEN CHARLOTTE TRACK AND YOU’LL BE SPOILT

THE EARTH MOTHER,

WITH VIEWS AND SHADY PATHS THAT DIP DOWN TO THE COAST, WHERE

THEIR CANOE CAPSIZED

YOU CAN STOP TO FISH, GATHER MUSSELS, OR ENJOY A SWIM. YOU’LL

ON THE JOURNEY HOME.

ONLY BE DISTURBED BY OCCASIONAL KAYAKERS PADDLING BY. THE TRACK STRETCHES 70KM FROM HISTORIC MERETOTO/SHIP COVE THROUGH TO

THE CANOE BECAME THE

ANAKIWA, HOME OF OUTWARD BOUND NEW ZEALAND.

SOUTH ISLAND, AND THE MARLBOROUGH SOUNDS ARE THE PROW OF THE CANOE. THE BROTHERS WERE TURNED TO STONE AND BECAME THE HIGHEST MOUNTAINS OF THE SOUTHERN ALPS.

T

here are four main sounds; the largest is Pelorus, followed

by Queen Charlotte, which boasts a 70km tramping track, and then the smaller, idyllic Kenepuru Sound and the Mahau Sound.

The translucent waters, maze of deep coves and secluded bays fringed by native forest are a playground where you can sail, fish, dive or kayak while marine life frolics around you. Join an eco tour and see rare birds, dolphins, penguins and seals, and sail to the outer sounds for close

encounters. Between October and March, orca also visit these parts.

The Underwater Observatory at Lochmara Bay is an excellent way to watch blue cod, eels and diving shag up close, and feed the stingray. Take a cruise to see how mussels are harvested, then eat them fresh out of the water.

Walk or cycle the Queen Charlotte Track from Ship Cove to Anakiwa.

A world-famous route with views that are out of this world. And don’t miss Pelorus River, noted for its swimming holes and hidden tracks.

MARLBOROUGH SOUNDS after the Duke of Marlborough The perfect setting for a relaxed or active Holiday

HAVELOCK after Sir Henry Havelock • 43km NW of Blenheim MARLBOROUGH

Havelock

24 Inglis Street, Havelock, Marlborough E info@havelockholidaypark.kiwi P +64 3 574 2339

HOLIDAY PARK “Stay Once, Stay Often”

Lodge, cabins, tent/power sites, dump point. Scalloping in season, fishing, kayak hire, scenic drives, walks. Convenience Store: fuel, scuba fills, LPG, groceries, fishing tackle, bait, hot & cold drinks. Tea & coffee. Free WiFi. Pet-friendly. NZMCA discounts, off season.

Okiwi Bay Holiday Park & Lodge, 15 Renata Rd, Okiwi Bay, Marlborough Sounds P: +64 3 576 5006 • www.okiwi.co.nz • E: info@okiwi.co.nz

12

• Experience the peace and quiet of Havelock Holiday Park.

• Gateway to the Sounds.

• Home of the Greenshell Mussel.

• Access to cycling/walking tracks.

• We can help you organise Mail Boat, Kayak, Wine trips and more.

• Pet-friendly cabin and caravan now available.

Book Direct for Best Prices www.havelockholidaypark.kiwi

PAGE 5 - REGIONAL MAP

Marlborough

M

Havelock Mussel Capital

V

isit beautiful Havelock Marina, the departure point for cruises and tours.

Take the mail boat past secluded bays and isolated homesteads. Five species of dolphin live in the pristine waters of the Marlborough Sounds.

Head out on a cruise from Havelock and look for dusky, bottlenose, short-beaked common, orca and Hector’s dolphins. Watch for whales which cruise these waters too. Diving sea birds will also keep you entertained, or go for a swim off the back of the boat.

Drive 5.5km down Queen Charlotte Drive to a car park for access to the Cullen Point walkways. The Coastal Track is an hour-long loop with views of Pelorus Sound and Havelock. The Lookout Track is a 10-minute walk with views of Mahau Sound.

uscle in on some of the action in the green-shell mussel capital of the world. The Mussel Pot restaurant is a Havelock icon and trying the mussels here should definitely be on your itinerary. Also browse around Havelock Museum and check out the gold strike site at the nearby Wakamarina River, which brought the town into being in 1864.

ABOVE: Havelock, green-shell mussel capital of the world © Destination Marlborough

HAVELOCK’S ICONIC RESTAURANT 73 Main Rd, Havelock Ph: +64 3 574 2824 Email: musselpot@xtra.co.nz www.themusselpot.co.nz

• Open lunch and dinner • Non seafood dishes • Gluten free • Vegetarian • Just look for the giant pot of mussels on the roof • Open 7 days through spring, summer & autumn • Visit our Facebook page for current seasonal hours

13

Marlborough

Pretty as

PICTON

DON’T MISS!

PICTURESQUE PICTON IS THE PERFECT BASE FOR EXPLORING THE MARLBOROUGH REGION.

• A walk to Essons Valley Reservoir to see the glowworms • The gorgeous outlooks while driving up the Kenepuru Sound • Fishing charters for delicious seafood • The region’s far-reaching water taxis • Art-house movies at Picton Cinemas • Picton’s lively art scene at The Diversion Gallery

Picton © Getty Images

T

he town sits in a horseshoe curve watching out over a sparkling harbour, welcoming ferries from Wellington and farewelling craft heading to one of the nearby bays. The journey across the

Cook Strait is a rite of passage for New Zealanders and passengers disembarking from the ferry quickly lose their sea legs here.

On the foreshore you will find boat and bike hire and dive charters.

“SPECTACULAR WATERFRONT LOCATION”

BAY VISTA

There’s also a mini-golf course and the EcoWorld Aquarium in town.

Go to Dunbar Wharf to see the Edwin Fox built in 1853 and reputedly the world’s ninth-oldest wooden vessel. Also see the whaling industry artefacts at Picton

Heritage and Whaling Museum.

Tackle the 70km Queen Charlotte Track in its entirety over three to five days or embark on a bite-size shorter walk. Drive from Picton to Havelock and Nelson, stopping at Governors Bay lookout en route.

Jasmine Court Motel

78 Wellington St, Picton P: +64 3 573 7110

Waterfront

MOTEL

• All 1 & 2-bedroom apartment-style units have this magnificent view.

• Walk to café/restaurant close by in Waikawa Marina.

• Only 5min drive from town & Ferry, courtesy transfers available.

303-307 Waikawa Road • Picton

BOOK DIRECT & SAVE $$

Peaceful, spacious oasis of comfort minutes from waterfront, cafés, restaurants, shops and tourist activities. Located near both ferry terminals. Ideal base when walking Queen Charlotte track. Tariff: from $110 (season dependent).

:TZGE

0800 (BAY VISTA) 229 847

www.bayvistapicton.co.nz

Res: 0800 421 999

E: info@jasminecourt.co.nz

www.jasminecourt.co.nz

PHONE US 24/7

Lag oon Rd

FERRY TERMINALS

Dublin St

1

Broadway Devon St York St

Kent St Durham St

Ferrylink

MOTEL

Ferrylink Motel, 43 Kent Street, Picton Phone +64 3 573 7097 Email: info@ferrylinkmotel.co.nz

14

• Late arrivals welcome • On direct route to Ferry Terminals • FREE pick-up and drop-off • 50+ SKY Digital TV Channels

• WiFi available • Off-road parking • Guest laundry

RESERVATIONS: 0800 22 44 13 BOOK ONLINE:

www.ferrylinkmotel.co.nz

• A relaxing retreat with outstanding views • Free WiFI • Free pick-up and drop-off at ferry

• Spa available by appointment • Free use of double kayak • Complimentary continental breakfast

424 Port Underwood Rd, Whatamango Bay, RD 1, Picton • P: +64 3 573 6256 • E: info@aseaview.co.nz • www.aseaview.co.nz

PAGE 5 - REGIONAL MAP

Marlborough

Blenheim

Tasting honey, Blenheim © Kieran Scott

DEVOUR THE GOURMET DELIGHTS AND TAKE YOUR PICK FROM A FEAST OF SIGHTS AND ATTRACTIONS. DON’T LEAVE WITHOUT TRYING MARLBOROUGH’S SAUVIGNON BLANC, WHICH PUT NEW ZEALAND WINE IN THE INTERNATIONAL SPOTLIGHT AND IS REVERED AROUND THE WORLD.

Specialising in the unusual. 250m2 of NZ art, NZ books, gold jewellery, furniture, china, crystal, collectibles.

(Huge variety).

15

Marlborough

What To See & Do in Blenheim

T

here’s plenty to see and do in this good-looking town.

Blenheim has art galleries, a cinema complex and live theatre.

The Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre houses Sir Peter Jackson’s collection of WWI aircraft and the Dangerous Skies WWII Weta Workshop collaborative exhibition.

See the best examples of New Zealand motoring from the 1950s to 1980s at Omaka Classic Cars.

Visit a beautiful working lavender farm at Leighvander Cottage. The Makana chocolate factory is where you can watch staff make the delicate sweets, then sample some!

Blenheim is blessed with many lovely parks and gardens, including

Seymour Square with its memorial clock tower, and Pollard Park. The town centre is a haven of modern stores, antique shops, galleries, charming cafés and restaurants, as well as sunny, open spaces.

Seek out Marlborough Museum where Beavertown (Blenheim’s original name) in 1900 comes to life in a recreated heritage street.

Learn about the Wairau Bar, one of New Zealand’s most significant archaeological sites, and the region’s viticulture and wine history.

For something more active, play a round of golf, or follow the Wairau Lagoon Walk. The Wither Hills Walkway offers excellent views of the town.

LOCAL BUZZ Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre © MarlboroughNZ.com

“Located at Blenheim Railway Station is ‘The Wine Station’ where you can taste 80 premium local wines in one central location.” Paul Jackson – Managing Director of Pounamu Tourism Group

ROOTS DRY

GIN

OPEN 7 DAYS

16

PAGE 5 - REGIONAL MAP

Marlborough IF YOU LOVE FABULOUS FOOD AND WINE, YOU WILL BE SPOILT FOR CHOICE IN BLENHEIM. NOT ONLY IS THE TOWN SURROUNDED BY RENOWNED WINERIES, BUT IT HAS FABULOUS EATERIES SERVING FRESH LOCAL PRODUCE.

Wine & dine in style

Vines Village meal © Vines Village, Blenheim

Blenheim is a town where you can really indulge in epicurean pleasures. Don’t miss the Vines Village. The Rapaura Rd shopping and dining precinct has large tranquil lakeside grounds with free-range hens. The kids can borrow a basket and go

K

ēkerengū is a magical spot right on the edge of an ever-changing coastline where you can breathe a little deeper and fill your lungs with fresh ocean air. The sea will demand your attention and you can soak up the spectacle while enjoying delicious food at the awardwinning café.

to ‘Chook Manor’ where they can collect fresh eggs and have them cooked for breakfast. Adults will also love the daily themed food.

In February, don’t miss the Marlborough Food and Wine Festival. Sample the region’s finest cuisine by top chefs and listen to music among the vines at Brancott Estate.

Go rafting on the Clarence River, take a walk along the Kēkerengū River, check out the seals – from a safe distance – at Ohau Point or take a deep-sea fishing charter.

Kēkerengū is conveniently located halfway between the marine life mecca of Kaikōura and the desirable wine region of Blenheim.

Enjoying a meal at a winery © Marlborough Destination Marlborough

S

pring Creek has local wine tours and trout fishing. It’s also the perfect place to grab life by the handlebars and go cycling.

The Blenheim to Spring Creek pathway is ideal. Makana

boutique chocolate factory is temptingly close. See how their delicious creations are made and walk away with a boxful of treats. Local convenience stores and a pub can be found in the town itself.

SPRING CREEK 6km N of Blenheim BEST DEAL BOOK DIRECT OR ONLINE

www.middle-park.co.nz

• Motels set in .8ha of park-like grounds • Heat pump & air-conditioning in all units • Quiet, back-section units (ideal for corporates) • Directly opposite supermarket, café and restaurant • FREE fibre WiFi • Guest laundry • Ample overflow parking • Private courtyards with BBQs • Rates: $145-$200 (2 persons), extra child & adult $20 each

138 Middle Renwick Rd Blenheim, MARLBOROUGH P: +64 3 578 3329 E: middle-park@xtra.co.nz

FREEPHONE: 0800 33 33 29

2 Restaurant

KĒKERENGŪ the black wood bug • 56km NE of Kaikoura

BOOK DIRECT www.171onhighmotel.co.nz • Centrally located, modern motel • FREE ultra fast WIFI • All units feature a well-equipped kitchenette • Guest laundry • DVD player & library • Close to ASB Theatre, restaurants, cafés & supermarket • Continental breakfast available • Tariff: from $150 (Queen)

Ale House

Cnr of High & Percy Streets, Blenheim

THE STORE CAFÉ & CAMP

• A true Kaikoura Coast icon, The Store Café & Camp is the ultimate coastal experience. With breathtaking views, beachfront sites, an iconic café/restaurant and a warm Kiwi welcome, this is a pretty special spot!

• Camping available.

• Free WiFi. Pets welcome by arrangement.

SH 1, Kekerengu, Marlborough • P: +64 3 575 8600 www.thestore.kiwi • E: info@thestore.kiwi

17

Nelson Tasman

ESCAPE TO THE SUN

Nelson Tasman & Golden Bay

18

PAGE 5 - REGIONAL MAP

Nelson Tasman Abel Tasman National Park © Getty Images

WHETHER YOU’RE READY FOR A REJUVENATING BREAK, OR GEARED UP FOR ACTION-PACKED ADVENTURE, YOU WILL FIND PLENTY TO LOVE IN THE NELSON TASMAN REGION.

W

ith more sunshine hours than anywhere else in the country, plus dazzling white and golden-sand beaches, Nelson Tasman is a haven for holidaymakers.

The region is famous for its seafood, horticulture, fruit and hop growing, wine production, craft beer and cider. In fact, you get the whole food package here so the cuisine is top notch. Taste the offerings at a local restaurant or winery, or head to one of the farmers’ markets. Creativity is in the air here and Nelson Tasman has a vibrant arts and crafts scene.

Visit the workshops of local painters, sculptors, fashion designers, glass

blowers and jewellers and pick up unique souvenirs and gifts.

The many festivals, performances and interactive exhibitions held throughout the year also add to the city’s lively atmosphere. But if it’s action and adventure you’re after, the Nelson Tasman region delivers in spades too. Zip around on quad bikes, take a helicopter ride, explore the area’s secluded coves and beaches by kayak, fly like a bird on the Skywire (the world’s longest flying fox), or have a go at kite surfing – and that’s only the start. Nelson Tasman has earned a reputation as a top mountain biking area as well.

19

Nelson Tasman

R

elax on long Tāhunanui Beach or golden Kaiteriteri Beach, or drive out to beautiful Rabbit Island (Moturoa), have a swim and watch the white heron and other wading birds as the tide changes.

Tour the globe in six acres at Gardens of the World, browse the arts and crafts stalls at Nelson’s Saturday Market and pick up some gifts or graze the artisan produce stalls for picnic food. Head up to the Centre of New Zealand walk on Botanical Hill, so-called because it was a central survey point in the 19th century. Walk down the other side to Black Hole swimming spot and return on the Maitai Track.

Nurturing

Nelson Tasman

For something a little different, book a free 55-minute tour of Pic’s Peanut Butter Factory. Kids willl love making their own, and adults never say no to the tastings. Die-hard fans can also climb the world’s largest jar of peanut butter.

Cycling through a vineyard, Nelson © Dean McKenzie

THE SKYWIRE • QUAD BIKE TOURS • ARGO • HORSE TREKS • E-BIKES • PAINTBALL

AND MORE

Once all excursions are ticked off, enjoy some downtime and a therapeutic treatment at a boutique spa retreat.

The Cable Bay Adventure park is Nelson’s adventure destination. Home to the famous Skywire and only 15 min from the centre of Nelson, it has a wide range of activities with something for the whole family.

Traditional Thai restaurant where Thai chefs prepare every dish from scratch to bring you an authentic, uncompromised taste of Thailand with an emphasis on using only the freshest ingredients. Chokdee caters for all palates – from mild through to those who like their favourite Phad Thai extra hot. Dine in or takeaway. Fully licensed & BYO. 83 Hardy St, Nelson Ph: +64 3 539 0282 109 High St, Motueka Ph: +64 3 528 0318

Order takeaways online:

www.chokdee.co.nz

• Licensed café • Eels and animals • E-Bike hire • Functions • Family fun • Open everyday except Christmas day CABLE BAY ADVENTURE PARK 194 Cable Bay Road, RD 1, Nelson 7071 +64 (03) 545 0304 or FREEPHONE 0800 157 300

www.cablebayadventurepark.com

20

NELSON’S ADVENTURE

DESTINATION PAGE 5 - REGIONAL MAP

Nelson Tasman

Art & Culture

A

rtists are celebrated in Nelson Tasman, and creativity is part of the fabric of the city. There are more than 300 working artists in the region. The World of WearableArt & Classic Cars Museum is a standout attraction, where you can admire clothing creations which turn the human body into an art form.

The Suter, Te Aratoi o Whakatu, is a good place to absorb the creative vibe. If you are here in October, don’t miss the Nelson Arts Festival. You’ll have plenty of opportunities to see artists in their studios and purchase their work.

For updates on cultural events go to www.itson.co.nz.

To find out what inspires the local creatives, visit some of the city’s heritage sites. Broadgreen Historic House was built in 1855 and is Nelson’s oldest residence.

Founders Heritage Park has a replica settlers’ village and a railway line as well as other attractions.

Nelson’s rich hop growing and brewing industry is championed at the Hop and Beer Museum in the iconic Founders Heritage Park.

Visit artisans in character buildings and browse gifts and souvenirs within the walls of a giant windmill.

Visitors exploring Pic’s Peanut Butter Factory © Pic’s Peanut Butter Factory

Visit the Makers of The Movie Ring LOCAL BUZZ

“The Nelson Arts Festival kicks off with the ‘Mask Parade’ and street party every October. The whole city comes to life for 10 days.”

Pic Picot – Founder of Pic’s Peanut Butter

Scenic Flights we’ve got the very best of Nelson covered

03 547 4360

Jens Hansen is the legendary creator of the world’s most famous ring, The One Ring, for the Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit movies. We are Nelson’s most established and only internationally acclaimed artisan jewellery workshop.

Visit us for hand-forged diamond engagement and wedding rings that are crafted to last for generations.

Hours: Mon to Fri 9am - 5pm Sat 9am - 4pm Summer Sundays 10am - 2pm

Operated by GCH Aviation

www.gchaviation.com

Ph. 03 548 0640 • Selwyn Place, Nelson • www.jenshansen.co.nz

21

Nelson Tasman SAMPLE LOCAL DELIGHTS AT A RESTAURANT, WINERY, OR AT ONE OF THE MANY INNOVATIVE CAFÉS IN THE CITY.

FOOD, DRINK & FUN

T

here is a phenomenal selection of dining options in the Nelson Tasman area.

In a region that has some of the highest recorded sunshine hours in the country, dining alfresco should be enjoyed as much as possible. Go straight to the source and explore local artisan produce at Nelson Market, held every Saturday from 8am-1pm at Montgomery Square, and

the Nelson Farmers’ Market every Wednesday 8am-2pm in Kirby Lane, Nelson City. With 28 boutique wineries and cellar doors, and more craft breweries per capita than anywhere else in New Zealand, take a wine tour to ensure you experience the best on offer. Follow this with classic fish and chips at The Smokehouse on Māpua Wharf, or the Sands Fish & Chip Shop by Tāhunanui Beach.

GET ACTIVE

Skydives, hang-gliding and helicopter rides are all achievable in these parts, but if you fancy something slightly less hairraising, Cable Bay Adventure Photographer: John-Paul Pochin Pochin Photographer: John-Paul Park features the Skywire. A flying fox meets chairlift combo which accommodates up to four people as it soars over native forest at speeds of 100km. If that’s still a little too extreme, enjoy an amphibious river ride, go canyoning, mountain biking or kite surfing, or take it down another notch and visit Natureland Wildlife Trust which is home to all manner

FROM

$95

of fun and furry creatures. Quad bikes can be taken for bumpy jaunts across the varied terrain and bikes are easily rented for a cycling adventure along Tasman’s Great Taste Trail. Start out at Nelson Airport or the Nelson i-SITE and weave your way over Tasman Bay, Waimea Estuary and the Western Ranges. It can done as a loop with plenty of stops for the jaw-dropping views and Tasman’s famously fine food. At day’s end enjoy a glass of local wine, of which chardonnay, sauvignon blanc and pinot noir are standouts.

30 Golf Rd, Tahunanui, Nelson Ph: +64 3 548 5114 Reservations: 0800 100 017

www.courtesycourt.co.nz GREAT LOCATION – 5min walk to beach, outdoor activities, bars & restaurants. Close to airport & 10min drive to Nelson city & Richmond.

GREAT VALUE – Spacious, comfortable studios, 1 & 2-bedroom apartments all with full kitchen facilities, that can sleep up to 6. Very affordable rates - book direct for best deal.

Gallery.

Café.Café.

Gift shop | 9.30am – 4.30pm dailydaily Gallery.

Gift shop | 9.30am – 4.30pm

GREAT HOSPITALITY – Fire up one of the BBQs or relax by the pool – friendly and helpful hosts Richard and Linda will make your stay a pleasure.

208 BridGe st, NelsoN | thesuter.orG.Nz 208 BridGe st, NelsoN | thesuter.orG.Nz FREE WIFI AND FREE GUEST LAUNDRY

22

PAGE 5 - REGIONAL MAP

Nelson Tasman

TASMAN District THE ABEL TASMAN NATIONAL PARK HAS TO BE SEEN TO BE BELIEVED, WITH SPECTACULAR GOLDEN BEACHES, CRYSTAL CLEAR STREAMS TUMBLING THROUGH THE VALLEYS TO MEET THE SEA, NATURALLY SCULPTURED GRANITE CLIFFS AND THE TONGA ISLAND MARINE RESERVE.

T ABOVE: Friends enjoying wine, Nelson © NelsonNZ.com LEFT: Local hops grown for beer © AbelTasman.com RIGHT: Abel Tasman © Getty Images

RIVERLODGE MOTEL NELSON

• A 3-minute walk to town centre, i-SITE. • FREE WiFi. • LCD TVs with SKY. Barbecue area.

• Self-contained studio, 1, 2-brm & family units.

• Spacious unit with wheelchair access.

• Tariff: from $99 (2 persons). Group rates & facilities.

31 Collingwood St, Nelson • P: +64 3 548 3094 • Res: 0800 100 840 www.riverlodgenelson.co.nz

TUDOR LODGE MOTEL

• Quality accom with modern facilities, warm hospitality. Spacious units, private courtyards, air-con. SKY 50+, Free WiFi. • 5min walk to beach, cafés & bars.

• 5min drive to airport & golf course.

• Tariff: from $109. Seasonal rates apply.

52 Tahunanui Dr, Nelson • P: +64 3 548 5061 • Res: 0800 37 88 37 www.tudorlodgenelson.co.nz • E: tudorlodgenelson@gmail.com

he Tasman District features a warm climate, three national parks, sumptuous scenery, a thriving arts scene and mouthwatering local delicacies – what more could you possibly want?

Not far from Nelson, Richmond boasts a collection of vineyards, most within a 20km radius. If you’re interested in craft, there are potters, glass blowers, wood turners, metal smiths and tailors who make garments from all sorts of fleeces.

Māpua is an essential town to visit for any food-lover. At the wharf you’ll find a collection of cafés with stunning views. It’s also home to Shed 4 that includes even more eateries, shops and a waterfront amphitheatre where there are often concerts.

Motueka has a lively café culture and two lovely national parks nearby. Rub shoulders with the locals and buy fresh produce and crafts at the Sunday market. See Te Ahurewa Māori church, built in 1897, and the waka (canoe) that used to ply the waters of the Motueka River. Check out the famous 1929 Cadillac at the district museum.

The Riwaka Resurgence, where the river emerges from a marble cave into a crystal clear pool, is great for swimming. Also walk Harwoods Hole Track to the deepest shaft in New Zealand. It’s a short drive from here to Mārahau, the Abel Tasman National Park, the Kahurangi National Park, and Motueka River for trout fishing.

A BEL TASMAN NATIONAL PARK

NZ Freephone: 0800161 212

• Ideal location in heart of Richmond, close to shops/ restaurants & Saxton Fields, airport 10min, Nelson City 15min • Spacious studio, 1 & 2-brm units, spa bath option • Pool heated in season • Tariff: (2p) $140-$290, extra $25

BOOK DIRECT for best rates

E:T4 42 Gladstone Rd, Richmond, Nelson P: +64 3 544 2264 • E: info@parksidemotel.co.nz

www.parksidemotel.co.nz

Explore the heart of

the Abel tasman

WWW.ABELTASMANCANYONS.CO.NZ

FREE PHONE 0800 86 34 72 23

Nelson Tasman

LOCAL BUZZ

“Find the sleepy village of Mārahau at the entrance to Abel Tasman National Park. From here, water taxis grant convenient access to six major bays and many secret spots.”

Pic Picot – Founder of Pic’s Peanut Butter

Abel Tasman National Park KAYAKING IS THE IDEAL WAY TO NAVIGATE THE PARK AND EXPLORE EXQUISITE GOLDEN BEACHES AND HIDDEN INLETS.

W MAIN: Split Apple Rock, Abel Tasman © Getty Images INSET: Exploring Abel Tasman National Park © Nelson Tasman Tourism

24

hen you’re unwinding on a stretch of golden sand here, you could be forgiven for thinking you’re basking on a beach on a tropical island. You can spend your days exploring the beautiful bays and coves by yourself or with a local tour guide.

One way to get there is by water taxi from Kaiteriteri or Mārahau, with more frequent trips in summer and less frequent in winter. The water taxis call at all the main beaches as far north as Totaranui. You can also charter a yacht, paddle a sea kayak here or go skydiving in nearby

Motueka. There are two main gateways to the park: follow the road past Mārahau and Kaiteriteri from the south, or go via Tākaka to reach the park from the north. From Mārahau, it’s a 20-minute walk into the park which will take to you to some delightful, serene bays.

PAGE 5 - REGIONAL MAP

Nelson Tasman

WITH CALM, PRISTINE WATERS AND CARESSING SUMMER SEA BREEZES, CRUISING THE WATERS OF ABEL TASMAN NATIONAL PARK IS THE ULTIMATE WAY TO RELAX AND UNWIND.

Boating

T

here are several ways to explore the secluded golden bays of the Abel Tasman National Park.

Catching a water taxi from Kaiteriteri or Mārahau is an option if you want to be dropped directly on one of the park’s beaches.

Alternatively, take a pleasure cruise and sit back, relax and enjoy your spectacular surroundings. There are opportunities to combine walks or wildlife spotting including dolphin watching trips.

Also consider chartering a yacht and sailing the bays in style.

There are plenty of operators and packages available, and they all offer a comfortable, relaxed vantage point from which to check out sandy shorelines and admire the impressive scenery.

Onetahuti Beach © Nelson Tasman Tourism

25

Nelson Tasman

KAYAKING

Kayaking in Abel Tasman National Park © Nelson Tasman Tourism

I

f kayaking in New Zealand had a home, it would undoubtedly be here. Who hasn’t seen the images of kayaks gliding in a turquoisecoloured bay cradled by a sweep of golden sandy beach? Kayaking is the best way to explore the Abel Tasman National Park, as you can boldly go where no boat or walking track will take you.

It’s no wonder that this stretch of New Zealand is a world-renowned kayaking location, not just because of the natural beauty of its secluded coves and lagoons, granite cliffs, unspoiled beaches and Split Apple Rock – a whopping great granite boulder – but also because of the marine life in these waters. You can thank Tonga Island Marine Reserve for providing a predator-free space for seals to set up home. These interesting creatures are known to follow you as you paddle around the coastline. Dolphins and penguins are also regular spectators as you navigate these waters.

Kaiteriteri Kaiteriteri successfully provides all the elements of a great Kiwi holiday: plenty of sunshine, a secluded location and three unforgettable beaches combining the cleanest sand you will ever see with calm, sparkling blue waters.

Kaiteriteri is also a haven for mountain bikers – the Kaiteriteri Mountainbike Park is a fantastic, purpose-built park. This 180ha off-road park is maintained by enthusiastic volunteers who are helping to shape and develop the park into a mountain biking mecca.

ABEL TASMAN NATIONAL PARK

campsites • cabins • backpacker lodge water taxis • kayaks • cafe & beer garden

The main gateway into the Abel Tasman National Park, Mārahau has a lovely beach and a choice of places to stay. You can book water taxis here, hire kayaks or set off on the Coastal Walking Track.

• Abel Tasman National Park camping at its finest!

• Booking office for all Park activities • 40 hectares • Farm animals, off‑licence, river swimming, card phone • Secure car park • Wireless internet avail • Dorm/doubles & self‑contained studio

Franklin Street, Marahau 0800 80 90 18 • www.marahaubeachcamp.co.nz 26

Harveys Rd, Marahau RD 2, Motueka Ph: +64 3 527 8288 • Fax: +64 3 527 8289 Email: info@oldmacs.co.nz • www.oldmacs.co.nz PAGE 5 - REGIONAL MAP

Nelson Tasman

Don’t Miss FAREWELL SPIT These huge dunes form a landing strip for thousands of migratory shore birds from the northern hemisphere.

The 35km-long sandspit is home to 90 bird species and is protected as a Wetland of International Importance. Access is restricted, with public walking allowed only at certain places. Or it can be experienced on a 4WD bus tour departing daily from Collingwood and Pūponga.

GOLDEN BAY Drive over the Tākaka Hill and you’ll arrive in glorious Golden Bay. This is the only way in and out by road.

Once you’re there you’ll be tempted to pitch a tent and stay forever.

Camping by this startling stretch of sun-kissed sand is one of the definite must-do’s in this region.

Sand dunes in Farewell Spit, Golden Bay © Nelson Tasman Tourism INSET: Walking along the sand dunes © www.nelsontasman.nz

K AITERITERI misspelling of Kaiteretere • 13km N of Motueka

Experience Kaiteriteri

Kaiteriteri-Sandy Bay Rd, Kaiteriteri Beach, Kaiteriteri P: +64 3 527 8010 • F: +64 3 527 8031 E: info@krr.co.nz

Idyllic golden beach destination, world-class mountain biking, boating, swimming, recreation and the gateway to the stunning Abel Tasman National Park.

Premium beachfront apartments, cabins and powered camp sites with on-site restaurants, café, supermarket, petrol station and mini golf.

www.experiencekaiteriteri.co.nz

G OLDEN BAY 110km NW of Nelson

free

27

Nelson Tasman

Te Waikoropupū Springs

Te Waikoropupū Springs, Golden Bay © www.nelsontasman.nz

T A Middle Earth Experience

he walk through Te Waikoropupū Springs Scenic Reserve to ‘Pupu’ Springs is highly recommended.

Stand back in amazement on the viewing platforms and watch the dancing white sands of the lake bed. Water shoots out from small underwater vents, hence the name ‘Place of the Dancing Sands’. Remember that touching the water is forbidden as these pristine springs are sacred (wahi tapu) to Māori.

THE SANDCASTLE – SEAVIEW COTTAGE ACCOMMODATION

Discover the beautiful Ngarua Caves along a 300m trail through a breathtaking variety of stalagtites & stalagmites, also featuring an excellent skeletal display of the extinct moa. Situated on top of Marble Mountain half an hour’s drive from Motueka on SH 60 to Takaka and Golden Bay. View the caves then take in the stunning views of Tasman Bay and the surrounding Karst landscape while enjoying a coffee and other refreshments.

• Excellent value s/c cottages set in 3ha of peaceful gardens, ponds and native trees.

• Sea views, beach close by. Free WiFi. Pizza oven, BBQ. Breakfast available. Relaxed, friendly accommodation that captures the holiday spirit of the Kiwi bach.

• Tariff: $90-$130 (2 persons), extra person/child $10.

Haile Lane, Pohara, Golden Bay • P: +64 3 525 9087 • Res: 0800 433 909 www.goldenbayaccommodation.co.nz • E: sandcastle@xtra.co.nz

Saltwater fishing • Sightseeing • Saltwater Fly Fishing

www.ngaruacaves.co.nz

• Morning trips fishing in and around the bay targeting snapper, blue cod, gurnard, kahawai, perch & tarakihi Open Daily Throughout Summer. Guided Tours Hourly From 10am - 4pm

Ph: +64 3 528 8093 • E: ngaruacaves@gmail.com

28

• All bait & fishing gear is supplied • Sightseeing trips from Golden Bay into the Abel Tasman National Park

Wildcat Charters Pohara Golden Bay Freephone: 0508 945 322 • Mob: +64 27 613 6873

Email: info@fishgoldenbay.co.nz www.fishgoldenbay.co.nz PAGE 5 - REGIONAL MAP

Nelson Tasman Kayaking in Nelson Lakes National Park • BELOW: Lake Rotoiti BOTH IMAGES: © Nelson Tasman Tourism

Heaphy Track © Nelson Tasman Tourism

Collingwood Collingwood boomed in the 1850s and its history is stamped on its buildings, including St Cuthbert’s Church and the courthouse. Find out more at Collingwood Museum.

Located at the mouth of the Aorere River on the shoreline of Golden Bay, Collingwood is perfectly situated for

walks including the Heaphy Track in the Kahurangi National Park.

You’ll also find Farewell Spit Tours here – take a tour and visit the historic Farewell Spit Lighthouse.

Or you could rent a mountain bike and explore beautiful Aorere Valley, kayak to the Ruataniwha Inlet or take a horse trek along Wharariki Beach.

COLLINGWOOD after Baron Collingwood • 27km NW of Takaka Tasman St, Collingwood, Golden Bay

• Farewell Spit is a Phone: +64 3 524 8257 nature reserve and Email: enquiries@farewellspit.co.nz world-renowned www.farewellspit.com Farewell Spit Tours bird sanctuary.

• On our tours you’ll visit the historic lighthouse, take in the panorama from the top of one of the 100ft-high dunes & see old fossils exposed on the beach.

RESERVATIONS:

0800 808 257

Friendly Camp IN THE HEART of Collingwood

NELSON LAKES IN MĀORI MYTHOLOGY TWO LAKES WERE CREATED WHEN CHIEF RĀKAIHAUTŪ DUG TWO HOLES. ONE HOLE FOR LAKE ROTOROA, THE OTHER FOR LAKE ROTOITI.

N

elson Lakes National Park is so sublime, its many attributes evoke a blink twice and rub your eyes response. From the aqua-violet hues of Blue Lake (also the world’s clearest lake) to the concertina-effect of the mountains, the landscape is quite astonishing. There are 16 lakes in total of which Rotoiti and Rākaihautū are the most iconic. Walk the lakeside, undertake an alpine hike or get on the water in a kayak, boat – or a pair of water skis! St Arnaud village is an ideal base for exploring the area, including the popular Rainbow Ski Field when the first flakes of winter fall.

DON’T MISS! Made famous by travel bloggers and Instagrammers the world over, you can’t visit Lake Rotoiti without jumping off its now instantly recognisable jetty. Framed by sky piercing mountains and honeydew beech forest resonating with bird song, the lake would numb you to your core in winter, but would make the perfect mid-air pic come summer.

NELSON LAKES including Lake Rotoroa and Lake Rotoiti Collingwood Holiday Park

NELSON LAKES MOTELS & TRAVERS-SABINE LODGE

COLLINGWOOD HOLIDAY PARK Cabins and camping options Toilet/shower & laundry facilities • Internet access Equipped kitchens and TV room Tennis courts • Recycling • Pets by arrangement only

6 William Street, Collingwood 7073 • Golden Bay • E: info@collingwoodholidaypark.co.nz

BOOK NOW: www.collingwoodholidaypark.co.nz • P: 03 524 8149

• Gateway to Nelson Lakes National Park. 5min bush walk to lake, stunning walks/tramps, MTB, skiing or just relax.

• Tariff: Motels & Family Cottages, well-equipped kitchens: $139-$159 (1-2p), extra adult $20, child $15. Travers-Sabine Lodge, 36-brm lodge: share/twin/double/family rooms $35-$79 (1-2p). SKY 50+ channels. FREE WiFi. Main Rd, SH 63, St Arnaud, Nelson Lakes National Park • P: +64 3 521 1887 www.nelsonlakes.co.nz • E: info@nelsonlakes.co.nz

29

Nelson Tasman

Thrills & SPILLS

White-Water Capital AS THE SELF-PROCLAIMED ‘WHITE-WATER CAPITAL OF NEW ZEALAND’, MURCHISON IS A THRILL-SEEKER’S DREAM. THE AREA HAS A FANTASTIC RANGE OF OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES , FROM RAFTING AND KAYAKING TO TRAMPING, MOUNTAIN BIKING AND HUNTING.

ADVENTURE APLENTY

Murchison

M

urchison, gateway to the southern entrance of the Kahurangi National Park, calls itself the white-water capital of New Zealand because there are rivers everywhere.

They are graded from two to four and are therefore brilliant for thrillseekers. The mighty Buller River flows through the town, and its tributaries offer superb trout fishing. The 110m

Buller Gorge bridge is New Zealand’s longest swing bridge.

You can wander around the marked tracks, listen to audio presentations and learn about the area’s fascinating past as a major gold-mining area and about the 7.8 magnitude earthquake in 1929. You can also try your luck panning for gold or see a curious phenonmenon in the forest, where a natural flame has been burning for almost a century.

BULLER GORGE HIGHLIGHTS The good folk at Buller Gorge Swingbridge Adventure and Heritage Park run the 160m ‘Comet Line’ flying fox, divulge various gold panning secrets and know the area’s best walks.

ABOVE: Rafts, Buller River near Murchison © davidwallphoto.com RIGHT: Buller River swing bridge © AA Tourism

MURCHISON after Scottish geologist Sir Roderick Murchison 131km SW of Nelson

KIWI PARK MOTELS & HOLIDAY PARK

• Award-winner. Full range of accommodation.

• Next stop to/from ferry.

• Free WiFi voucher.

• Enjoy the rural experience and Farm Animal Park.

• Tariff: from $20pp.

170 Fairfax St, Murchison • P: +64 3 523 9248 • Res: 0800 22 80 80 www.kiwipark.co.nz • E: stay@kiwipark.co.nz

30

PAGE 5 - REGIONAL MAP

Nelson Tasman

M

ountain bikers will love the Old Ghost Road Trail, one of the premier backcountry cycle tracks. It runs from Lyell to Seddonville and is a grade four, advanced trail.

Cyclists take two to four days to complete the challenging 85km route which follows the paths used by miners and passes through the towns abandoned when the gold ran out.

Keep an eye out for mining relics and information panels explaining the area’s history. You’ll get a feel for the

life of a hardy 19th century West Coast pioneer.

You will also ride through swathes of native forest, descend into open river valleys scattered with lakes and tarns, weave through giant podocarp rainforest inhabited by abundant wildlife, sidle along a cliff-hugging trail and enjoy incredible views. There’s heli-biking opportunities and rafting on the Mōkihinui Gorge on the final leg of your journey.

ABOVE: Old Ghost Road Trail © HagePhoto

Enjoy the thrill of crossing the longest swingbridge in New Zealand • Historical gold workings • Earthquake fault-line • Bush walks • Comet line rides • Jet-boat rides • Gold panning

SH6 Upper Buller Gorge, Murchison Freephone 0800 BULLER www.bullergorge.co.nz 31

West Coast

NATURE IN ITS ELEMENT THE TASMAN SEA POUNDS THIS REGION’S 600KM STRETCH OF RUGGED COASTLINE AND THE GREAT COAST ROAD, FROM WESTPORT TO GREYMOUTH, AFFORDS SPECTACULAR VIEWS. Inhabitants gave up trying to tame the unruly West Coast long ago. When its bounty of gold, coal and timber were discovered the area quickly prospered, but its flurry of fortune never eclipsed the real riches of the west – its weatherworn beauty. The gold peddlers have long gone, but the wild, natural treasures of this region remain.

The West Coast has more protected land than any other part of New Zealand. In fact, the Haast region is so special that UNESCO have named it a World Heritage Area.

Explore ancient limestone cliffs, glowworm caves and old bush tramways in Charleston, see the Pancake Rocks and the mighty blowholes at Punakāiki, or enjoy the Coal Creek Falls Walkway as you immerse yourself in the history of Rūnanga, where old mining roots still run deep.

Those keen to get off the beaten track will revel in isolated townships such as Granity, Hector and Ngākawau. The latter are bijou settlements sitting at the mouth of the Ngākawau River. Fittingly, Hector’s dolphins often frequent the shoreline and in Ngākawau, the Charming Creek walkway leads to Seddonville.

The Coast is sparsely populated, allowing visitors to find space far from the crowds.

Enjoy the remoteness and explore some of the world’s most accessible glaciers.

Driving along the Wesport Coast Road © Getty Images

32

PAGE 7 - REGIONAL MAP

West Coast

The wild

West Coast

33

West Coast

BE AMAZED

Buller District Standing watch over the Tasman Sea, Buller District spans from Punakāiki in the south through to its largest town, Westport, and over to Karamea, Kahurangi National Park and the gold town of Reefton. Its rugged landscape doesn’t seek the limelight with the same tenacity as other places on the South Island. Its under-discovered isolation, complete with the region’s proud coal and gold mining history are its greatest drawcards.

EXPLORE THE OPARARA BASIN’S LIMESTONE ARCHES AND CAVES IN PRISTINE FOREST AND THE GOLD-MINING HERITAGE OF THE FENIAN AREA.

WESTPORT after Westport, Ireland • 104km NE of Greymouth Oparara Basin limestone arches, Karamea © Getty Images

27 Motels

Little Wanganui & Karamea

L

ittle Wanganui is a nugget of New Zealand which although small, packs a lot of punch. Surfers revel in the rips and those who discover the near-empty beach feel like they’ve stumbled across a local secret.

LITTLE WANGANUI

Then there’s Karamea, a 20-minute drive northwest from Little Wanganui – beautifully positioned between the Kahurangi National Park and the Tasman Sea; it’s the perfect place for total escapism.

Nationwide

WESTPORT

314 Palmerston Street

0800 235 528 | www.bellavista.co.nz

18km S of Karamea Reservation Freephone: 0800

Friendly West Coast hospitality Numerous accommodation options to suit all budgets Restaurant & bar facilities Campsites both powered or non-powered Gateway to the Kahurangi National Park Central to both Wangapeka & The Heaphy tracks, The Old Ghost Road & Little Wanganui River Black and Grey water stations Tariff $15-$120 for 2 people A: 3296 Karamea Highway RD 3 Karamea 7893 P: +64 3 782 6752 • E: info@littlewanganuihotel.co.nz

www.littlewanganuihotel.co.nz

34

500 209

Northern gateway to the scenic West Coast • Quiet, Clean and Spacious • Bike Cleaning Station • Lockable Bike Storage • Shuttle by Arrangement Only • Group Booking Discount • Undercover BBQ Area • FREE WiFi Tariff: from $135 (2 persons, extra $20)

The Esplanade, Westport Ph: +64 3 789 7519 • Email: bullerbridgemotel@xtra.co.nz BOOK DIRECT: www.bullerbridgemotel.co.nz PAGE 7 - REGIONAL MAP

West Coast

WESTPORT

S

A TASTE FOR ACTION

ituated where the mighty

challenging environment. Check

Buller River meets the sea,

out the Whitebait Festival if

Westport was first a gold

you’re here in October.

town and then a coal town.

Westport offers the full

Embrace the past and try your

repertoire of outdoor activities,

luck at gold panning and then

including jet boating, quad

head to the coast to fossick for

biking, horse-trekking, scenic

semi precious stones along one

kayaking, a range of mountain

of the windswept beaches.

biking tracks, surfing at

The town itself offers an eclectic

Tauranga Bay and North Beach

mix of art and crafts, antiques,

and fishing.

collectibles and jewellery. The

The excellent Charming Creek

Coaltown Museum tells the

Walkway, 25 minutes drive

stories of the pioneers who

north, combines scenery and

battled to make a life in this

history along an old railway line.

Remarkable PUNAKĀIKI A BREEDING COLONY OF FUR SEALS RESIDE AT TAURANGA BAY. THERE ARE INFORMATION PANELS AND A VIEWING PLATFORM TO OBSERVE THEM AND LEARN MORE. ABOVE: Watching the weka at Cape Foulwind © Miles Holden RIGHT: Punakāiki Pancake Rocks © Getty Images

from $110 Punakāiki’s coastal rocks are remarkable pieces of natural sculpture. Looking like enormous stacks of pancakes (hence their name), they are a major New Zealand visitor attraction.

• 2-brm & large studio units • Full cooking facilities • Quiet, rural and peaceful. 6km from Westport • 5min walk, safe sandy beach, golf course opp.

Carters Beach Units, 16 Schadick Ave, Westport Cartersbeachunits www.cartersbeachmotel.co.nz Email: cartersbeachunits@hotmail.com • Ph 03 789 5589 • 027 253 1115

The Punakāiki Pancake Rocks are hundreds of layers of sedimentary limestone formed 30-million-years ago from fragments of marine life skeletons and shells, sculpted by rain, wind and the sea. Waves slam into the rocks sending Plumes of spray high into the air at the blowholes. The well-formed stone steps and boardwalks lead you to the best viewing spots and the pathway has wheelchair access to most features.

PUNAKĀIKI 55km S of Westport, 46km N of Greymouth PAPAROA PARK MOTEL & COTTAGES

www.palmcourtwestport.co.nz

Reservations: 0800 472 567 306 Palmerston St, Westport Phone/Fax: +64 3 789 7247 Email: palmcourtwpt@xtra.co.nz

• Sunny location • Walk to shops • Motorcycle & cycle friendly • Free WiFi • Tariff: $90-$135 (2 persons), extra $15 Email:tourists palmcourtwpt@xtra.co.nz • Reservations: Well-travelled say “the best motel we’ve stayed at” 0800 472 567

• Set in a quiet, coastal, bush environment, overlooking Pancake Rocks/Blowholes.

• Quality self-contained studio units, open into a private bushsurrounded veranda.

• Three self-contained cottages – some with the best sea views in town.

Razorback SH 6, Punakaiki www.paparoa.co.nz • E: paparoaparkmotel@gmail.com

PUNAKAIKI BEACHFRONT MOTELS

• Motels, beach house and Kiwi bach right on the beachfront.

• Short walk to Pancake Rocks and Blowholes.

• Cafés and restaurants nearby.

• Book direct for best rates.

• Tariff: from $140.

SH 6, Punakaiki • P: +64 3 731 1008 www.punakaikibeachfrontmotels.co.nz

35

West Coast LEARN HOW A MINER LIVED AT THE MINERS HUT ON BROADWAY. SIT IN FRONT OF THE FIRE AND ENJOY A CUP OF BILLY TEA OVER A YARN WITH THE RESIDENT BEARDED MINERS.

Historic REEFTON AND SURROUNDS

T

his rugged community was founded on hard work, true grit – and cash.

The super rich Rothschild family from Europe bankrolled goldmining here in the 19th century.

To learn more, visit the Bearded Miners for a cup of billy tea and a yarn about the old days.

Reefton has plenty of old world charm. Follow the heritage trail to get a feel for the place. The Visitor Centre houses an impressive Quartzopolis mine, a working winding engine and a gold-mine tunnel where visitors can step back in time. Out of sight, but not forgotten, the town cherishes its goldfields history. A maze of tracks once used by miners are still maintained and explored by

Exploring Reefton Powerhouse INSET: Reefton Bearded Miners BOTH IMAGES: © West Coast Tourism

visiting cyclists, trampers and 4WD users. Tracks guide you around a day’s loop or lead you to modern Department of Conservation overnight huts. Up hills, through bush-clad valleys, creeks and over swing bridges, these tracks were once the lifelines of the town.

In the Reefton area, you can go freshwater fishing, try your hand at gold panning, take a tour of the working gold mine, play a round of golf in one of three golf courses, go on an amazing river journey on a kayak or raft, and choose from a variety of excellent mountain bike tracks. For something completely different, take a walk down memory lane and see the Bev’s Doll & Toy Museum.

Just west of Lewis Pass, Springs Junction is a great stop-off point when travelling between the South Island’s east and west coasts.

Surrounded by Nelson Lakes National Park, Victoria Forest Park and Lake Sumner Forest Park, nearby activities include bush-walks, trout fishing and hiking.

not too far away; sited in a scenic, peaceful spot.

The Charleston Caves, deep in the Paparoa National Park, have waterfalls, spectacular limestone formations, streams, fossils and glowworm displays. Go rock climbing, black-water rafting, abseiling or bouldering here.

The naturally heated, therapeutic Maruia Springs thermal pools are

LANTERN COURT MOTELS

REEFTON

• F ully self-contained units with options to suit singles to families and all budgets

• Beautiful region for bush walks, fishing, tramping & mountain biking • Central location

REEFTON after gold-bearing quartz reefs • 81km SE of Westport on SH 7

• Bike storage • FREE WIFI

Bellbird Motel • 7 fully self-contained units (sleep 2-6) in Victoria Forest Park.

• 2min walk to restaurants, cafés, info centre, supermarket.

• Great base for exploring the Buller/West Coast region.

• Historic villa, trout fishing, walks.

Free WiFi. • Tariff: $90 (single), $110 (double/twin), extra adult $15, extra child $10.

• Tariff: $120-$195 63 Broadway St, REEFTON • Ph: +64 3 732 8574 | info@lanterncourtmotel.co.nz

SPRINGS JUNCTION refers to springs in Maruia • 123km SE of Westport LEWIS PASS MOTELS

• 93 Broadway, Reefton • Res: 0800 235 524 • E: bellbird.motel@xtra.co.nz • Host: Malcolm White

www.reeftonbellbirdmotel.co.nz 36

• On edge of Lewis Pass National Reserve, 3km from Springs Junction towards Christchurch. Relaxing farm surroundings.

• 3 modern, s/c units (1 studio & 2 family). Access facilities.

• Handy to hot pools. Walking distance to Lake Daniels Track.

• Tariff: $130-$140 (2 persons), $20 extra person & $20 extra child.

SH 7, Springs Junction • P: +64 3 523 8863 www.lewis-pass.co.nz • E: bookings@lewis-pass.co.nz PAGE 7 - REGIONAL MAP

West Coast Lake Brunner © Getty Images

ENJOY THE TRANQUILLITY OF LAKE BRUNNER, WANDER AROUND SHANTYTOWN, EXPLORE THE NELSON CREEK GOLDFIELDS AND BLACKBALL’S HISTORY. THERE ARE OVER 50 WALKS IN THE AREA FROM 30 MINUTES TO TWO DAYS.

Central West Coast GREYMOUTH 243km NW of Christchurch on SH 6

Scenic Flights we’ve got the wild, wild west coast covered

Join our informative local guides as they take you to iconic West Coast locations with Explore West Coast, a local scenic tour company with over twenty years experience Punuakaiki / Pancake Rocks Hokitika Gorge & Tree Top Walkway Shantytown Heritage Park Monteiths Brewery, Lake Brunner EXPLORE WEST COAST LOCATED AT GREYMOUTH RAILWAY STATION Phone 0800 GREYMOUTH or 03 768 7080 Email info@explorewestcoast.nz Website www.explorewestcoast.co.nz

Heritage Mine Tours Glacier Tours, Bird & Wildlife Tours Tours run daily Tailored Tours & so much more

03 768 0011

Operated by GCH Aviation

www.gchaviation.com

HALF PRICE RENTAL CARS LTD

GREYMOUTH & HOKITIKA

We meet the TranzAlpine daily and offer one-way hires New Zealand wide

Ph: +64 3 768 0379 / 0800 227736 170 Tainui Street, Greymouth Email: greymouth@nzrentacar.co.nz Web: www.nzrentacar.co.nz 37

West Coast

Greymouth

Beer tasting at Monteith’s Brewery in Greymouth © Fraser Clements INSET: Greymouth Harbour © West Coast Tourism

- EXPERIENCE -

NEW ZEALAND'S ICONIC

CRAFT BREWERY GREYMOUTH, WEST COAST

TASTING • TOURS • KITCHEN • TAP ROOM • TAKEAWAYS

DAILY TRADING FROM 11AM - 9PM. BREWERY TOURS AVAILABLE. BOOK NOW WWW.THEBREWERY.CO.NZ 38

S

it back with a beer or wine and listen to tales of days gone by when Greymouth was besieged by greenstone hunters and gold miners.

Locals are known as ‘Coasters’, but life here has hardly been an easy ride. Fortunes were made and lost overnight in the 1860s gold rush and the accompanying mines, roads and rail have helped define the character of the wild West Coast .

Greymouth has a huge range of activities, from black-water and white-water rafting, quad biking, Hagglund tours, dolphin-watching, kayaking and scenic flights. Popular walks are the Quay Walk from Cobden Bridge and the Elizabeth Track, which passes through old gold-mining sites.

Make your own blade at Barrytown Knifemaking, take a selfie with the 5m tall cabbage tree sculpture in Stella Bull Park, and buy a piece of carefully crafted pounamu greenstone as a gift.

For something a little different to your average coffee fix, The Lifeboat is just that, a lifeboat transformed into a café.

Sitting at the end of the pier and serving Dutch coffee with stroopwafels, if the day’s kind, sit with your drink and watch the sea for a while.

PAGE 7 - REGIONAL MAP

West Coast

CENTRAL WEST COAST MAP MAP REFERENCE

Barrytown

Unsealed

us

6

Croe s

Fourteen Mile Bluff

Domestic Airport i-SITE Visitor Centre

PAPAROA NATIONAL PARK

ht lig

Tr

ck Tra

Seventeen Mile Bluff 1

M oo n

Sealed

SH 1-9 SH 10-99 Major Roads Minor Roads Must-Do’s State Highway Shield

ac

Hukarere VICTORIA

FOREST PARK

k

W

Blackball

7

Riv e Nelson Creek Walks r

Woods Creek Track W

Marsden

Cock

Kumara Junction

eye

oo

Cr e ek

Aratika Velenski Walk & Rakaitane Track

Te Kinga

Lake Brunner (Moana)

Haup

Kangaroo Lake

MT TE KINGA SCENIC RESERVE

Carew Mitchells Falls Track Carew Falls

Kopara

Lake Haupiri

Lady Lake

Ara O Te Kinga Track

Rotomanu 0

er Riv

Mt French Track

Moana

iri

6

Greenstone

Lake Ahaura

Arnold River Dam Walk

d s Cr e ek

73

Kumara

Lake Hochstetter

Kaimata Dunganville

Shantyton Heritage

ew Park Ri v er

nu i

r Riv e

N

he ra

au ra

Nelson Creek Goldfields

OMOTUMOTU SCENIC RESERVE

Rutherglen Shantytown

aw

old Ar n

6

Paroa

T ar amak au Riv er

Ngahere

Bain Bay T rac k

GREYMOUTH

Ah

Nelson Creek

Cobden

Monteith’s Brewing Co.

M

Ahaura

Stillwater

RESERVE

Ri ve r /

Nobles

7

anui aw her

y

Tyneside Runanga C o al Cr eek Chimney & Coal Suspension Creek Falls Bridge RAPAHOE C oa l Creek Brunner RANGE SCENIC Mine Site Wa lk

TASMAN SEA

Awatuna

e Gr

Formerly the Blackball Hilton

Rapahoe

Point Elizab et h

Point Elizabeth

/M

Waipuna

Riv

a lk

way

er

Nine Mile Bluff

NZ Cycle Trail

Gr ey

Slaty Creek

State Highway 6

Greigs

Tramping

Ikamatua

Craigieburn

Garden Gully Track

5

10km

1024 Mt Te Kinga

TOP PICKS IN GREYMOUTH Shantytown is a faithful replica of an 1860s gold-mining town where you can explore historical buildings, pan for gold, dress in period costumes, ride the steam train and much more.

Brunner Mine is one of Greymouth’s most historically significant sites. Located just outside of town, a 2km walk weaves its way around a brick factory, coke ovens and long-forgotten tunnel entrances.

H E R I TAG E PA R K  WEST COAST  NEW ZEALAND

Go for a drive: the stretch of highway between Greymouth and Westport, known as The Great Coast Road, is rated one of the top 10 scenic drives in the world and will mesmerise you at every turn.

Monteith’s Brewery is a Greymouth icon. Head here to enjoy a refreshing locally brewed beer and take the excellent guided tour.

Ride the steam train, pan for gold, watch the holographic show and get an old time photo. Over 30 shops and buildings to explore and lots of fun for kids! Special family prices.

Rutherglen Road, Paroa (10km South of Greymouth).

Open 7 days 8.30am - 5.00pm. Phone +64 3 762 6634 Gold panning at Shantytown, Greymouth © Tourism West Coast

shantytown.co.nz

39

West Coast

THE TRANZALPINE EXPERIENCE

E

ver since the history and romance of the Orient Express entered our consciousness, rail travel has fired our imaginations. One of the world’s great rail journeys, the TranzAlpine travels daily between Greymouth and Christchurch.

The 224km journey takes four and

a half hours and the train makes its way through 19 tunnels and over four viaducts.

Christchurch at 8.15am and again from Greymouth at 1.45pm. The journey makes a great weekend getaway or longer trip.

Just sit back, relax and feast your eyes on the sublime views of the plains, river gorges, valleys and the Southern Alps. It’s all aboard for departure from

If you’re planning a day trip, you also have the option of a five-hour stopover at Arthur’s Pass or a three-hour break at Moana on the shores of Lake Brunner.

TranzAlpine train journey (between Greymouth & Christchurch) © Kiwi Rail Scenic Journeys

INTERNATIONALLY ACCLAIMED

DID YOU KNOW The Great Greymouth Beer Boycott of 1947 brought about one of the town’s most talked about stand-offs in history. When hotel keepers initiated a rise in the price of beer, the local pub goers weren’t too happy about it. They snubbed all hotels for a solid four months until the hoteliers caved in and restored the original price.

Sundowner Motel Greymouth

14 Smith St, Greymouth Phone: +64 3 768 4666 E: sundowner@minidata.co.nz

Reservations:

0800 080 859 www.sundowner.co.nz

APOSTLES VIEW MOTEL

• Located 3km north of Greymouth.

• Studio, 1 & 2-brm units all with full cooking facilities.

• Free WiFi. • We are pet-friendly (by arrangement) and have FREE transfers to train station.

• Contact direct for best rates.

296 SH 6, 3km N of Greymouth • P: +64 3 768 5339 • M: +64 21 259 1398 Res: 0800 668 355 • www.apostlesviewmotel.co.nz • E: apostlesmotel@xtra.co.nz

• 100% Kiwi-owned & operated. Set back from the road: 11 modern studio units, 5 family units, serviced daily.

• Free WiFi, guest laundry. Free transfers: bus/train.

• 5min walk to town, shops, restaurants and bars.

Centrally located for all tourist attractions.

• Tariff: $125-$160 (2 persons).

GREYMOUTH KIWI

100% Kiwi owned & operated

GREYMOUTH

HOLIDAY PARK & MOTELS

• 5 executive studios & suites • 9 spacious 1 & 2-bedroom units • Sky Guest Select - 50+ channels • Corporate / Family / Group bookings • Short walk to hospital, supermarket, aquatic centre, restaurants • Guest laundry • FREE pick-up and drop to train/bus • Close to West Coast Wilderness Cycle Trail

40

BOOKINGS

0800 768 510

108-110 High St, Greymouth Tel: +64 3 768 5100 Email: sceniclands@xtra.co.nz

www.sceniclandmotel.co.nz

Relaxing surroundings...

• 1min walk to beach • FREE Unlimited WiFi • FREE hot spa & BBQs • Hot showers included • Kitchen/TV lounge • Access facilities

• Motel units Sky TV • Standard cabins • Powered and tent sites • Laundry • Children’s playground • Pets by arrangement

Phone for reservations: 0800 101 222

318 Main South Rd, Greymouth P. +64 3 762 6768 E stay@greymouthkiwi.co.nz

www.greymouthkiwi.co.nz PAGE 7 - REGIONAL MAP

West Coast

LAKE BRUNNER

L

ake Brunner is the water playground of the Central West Coast.

This premier rainforest lake offers world-class trophy trout fishing year round. There’s also boating, jet skiing, jet boating, golf (club hire available), quad biking, off-road go-karting, caving and walks on the beach and through the forest. Explore the wetlands and rainforest ecosystems. The township of Moana is nestled on its shores.

There are numerous wonderful bush walks here with bird life and many varieties of native trees, orchids, mosses and ferns. Take a fishing safari and catch brown trout. There are excellent places to stay, a licensed café and a service station.

Lake Brunner © Getty Images BELOW RIGHT: Arthur’s Pass © Getty Images

LAKE BRUNNER after 1840s explorer Thomas Brunner

39km SE of Greymouth

Stationhouse Café, Restaurant & Bar

Lake Brunner

• Relaxing dining experience overlooking Lake Brunner.

• Indoor/outdoor dining available.

• Great cuisine, friendly hospitality.

• Open 7 days, 10.30am til late Mon-Fri, 9.30 til late Sat-Sun. Winter hours may vary.

• Morning, afternoon tea, lunch with fresh baking, a la carte dining evenings.

• Fully licensed. Bookings essential.

• 3 hour stopover on TranzAlpine.

:

Phone: +64 3 738 0158

Web: www.lakebrunner.net Email: stationhouse@xtra.co.nz Koe St, Moana, Lake Brunner See us on Facebook

ARTHUR’S PASS Arthur Dobson, son of Canterbury Surveyor

Arthur’s Pass Alpine Motel Main Rd (SH 73), Arthur’s Pass Village E: info@apam.co.nz FREEPHONE: 0800 900 401

• Our clean, warm and cosy cabins each sleep 1-5 guests.

• All with own bathroom, kitchen, dining table and couch.

• Listen for kiwi, watch kea play, enjoy nature at its best.

• Walk one of the nearby tracks in Arthur’s Pass National Park.

• Free WiFi, TV and DVD in all rooms.

• Tariff: $130-$155 for 2 guests, extras $25. Reduced winter rates.

BOOK DIRECT FOR BEST PRICE: www.apam.co.nz

Arthur’s Pass Arthur’s Pass attracts scores of walkers and snowsport enthusiasts heading to the Temple Basin ski area, and with many peaks more than 2000m in height, it’s been popular with mountaineers since the late 19th century. The Arthur’s Pass Track is an easy 2.5-hour walk from the village to view the Dobson Memorial, named after the surveyor who charted this area. The Devils Punchbowl Falls is a mustdo when driving through Arthur’s Pass, with a short hike leading to the 131m giant. Arthur’s Pass village takes care of all the accommodation and dining needs of visitors and is a stop-off on the scenic TranzAlpine train journey that travels between Christchurch and Greymouth daily.

41

West Coast

POUNAMU COUNTRY

Historic Hokitika

Hokitika River © Getty Images

HOKITIKA IS A SMALL TOWN WITH A COOL ARTS VIBE AND STUNNING SCENERY.

E

leanor Catton’s Man Booker

dinosaur-like tuatara. Watch native

prize-winning novel, The

fish and the 100-year-old eels that are

Luminaries, is set in Hokitika

fed daily at 10am, noon and 3pm.

at the height of the 1860s goldrush.

Take a tour and fossick for

The town was thriving in those days:

greenstone, eat whitebait fritters, bike

41 ships were recorded anchored

the waterfront and visit the GLOW

here in 1867, making it a port to rival

WORM DELL.

Auckland.

The Mahināpua Scenic Reserve is

Hokitika is now mostly known for its

an impressive wetland area with

classic West Coast beach, awash with

surrounding forests home to native

stories and strewn with driftwood.

trees and birds. Its stunning scenery

But its beauty extends inland to

can be enjoyed on a WEST COAST

freshwater lakes and unspoilt bush.

SCENIC WATERWAYS cruise.

Climb HOKITIKA TOWER, 40m above

If you’re here on 7 March 2020, don’t

the forest for a bird’s-eye view to

miss the WILDFOODS FESTIVAL

the Alps. Visit the NATIONAL KIWI

where there’s different tastes and

CENTRE to see the endangered rowi

good music.

kiwi, which can live to 100 years, and

DISCOVER THE REGION’S STORIES OF PEOPLE, POUNAMU AND GOLD AT THE RESTORED 1908 CARNEGIE PUBLIC LIBRARY. THE HANDSOME BUILDING HOUSES A SUPERB COLLECTION OF EXHIBITS THAT GO BACK TO 1864 WHEN THE

Email: admin@hokitikaglass.co.nz Web: www.hokitikaglass.co.nz

GOLD RUSH HIT TOWN. 42

PAGE 7 - REGIONAL MAP

West Coast ou th

HA R

TASMAN SEA EL L

ST RE ET

EE T

ET ST RE

ST R

E IV

IEV W IE W

HARPER PARK

ST R

Hokitika Racecourse

NE ST O

ST O

N

ST R

RO LL E

EE T

DR

HA UH AU RD KA NIE R RD E

BE LT EA ST

W alk

EE T

ST RE ET

ST

TO WN

ge

ST R

ST R

IN G

He r it a

Q UA Y

DA VI E

EE T

E

WADESON ISLAND ki tik RESERVE a

OR D

HA MP DE N

JO LL IE HO FF MA N

L IN

FF

HI LL

ST

ST R

EE T

SA LE

EE T

ET RE

ST R

ST

L

HA L

BR ITT AN

GI BS ON

A

ST A

SA LE

D

ROA

6

EL D

o

RUA TA P

U

IT I K

H

Rive r

OK

CASS SQUARE

IE LL JO ST RE ET

EE T

BO

ST R EE T ST R

EE T

ST R

ZH ER BE RT

EL L

FIT

RAI LWA Y

PE L RR Y

SE W

ST

NC RE

H

F

AR

BE AC

Hokitika River Bridge

a H ok itik

W

WH

Point

PA RK

TT

A

HS T B EA C

ST

ag e PO W alk RT

WI HO

L E W EV ch C R H a Tambo 2 Town A MP Be ka 1 MILT Shipwreck k iti ON Clock Ho Replica 3 QUAY Monument Custom SON RES BY QGUIA HOKITIKA N HERITAGE AREA House Sunset SO H G IB k al

BE AL EY

ST ST

D

TA

ac h Be a iti k ok

H

ST

A IR

er it

AN

4

LN

Hokitika Airport H

EN

D

ST RE ET

ET

HE

EL

RE

LAZER PARK

EV EIN PLI NP A AL

W

4. National Kiwi Centre

N

ST

a

ST AF FO R EL CO CK

D

3. Seddon Memorial

Hokitika

Cemetery WH ITC OM R NA DRIV BE T CE E

t ik

2. Waewae Pounamu

HA MP DE

Lighthouse

ki Ho

PA RK 1. Hokitika Museum

Glow Worm Dell

6

EE T

SE W

TU DO R

RE VE LL

250m

R

RESERVE

IE W AV SE Historic

LIV

CE

ST R

EE T

EN

DS

ST

SP

To

RIC

RO AD

HIG

KU Kum MA ara Ju RA nc JU tion & NC TIO Gre ym N

MAP REFERENCE

Airport Domestic i-SITE Visitor Centre Police Station PostShop

0

HW AY

HOKITIKA CITY MAP

HOKITIKA HISTORY In the late 1860s, Hokitika was the very definition of ‘struck gold’. At the height of its gold rush, the prospering West Coast was throbbing with approximately 12 per cent of New Zealand’s entire population.

Visit the Regent Theatre, an art deco building that still shows the latest movies and live shows, plus other events. It’s a stunning piece of architecture, as is the equally elegant St Mary’s Church.

ABOVE: St Mary’s Catholic Church, Hokitika © Getty Images

To Ross, Glaciers and South Westland

Jade Discovery Tours Every day, you can join a free guided tour of our jade carving workshop.

You’ll discover how we transform raw stone into carved art and meet local artists as they craft jade by hand. We’ll take you on a journey into the important role pounamu plays in Māori culture, exploring its traditional uses and uncovering the legends and stories which breathe life into the stone.

Tours run at 9.30am & 2.30pm.

No bookings required.

41 Weld Street, Hokitika Open 8am – late.

mountainjade.co.nz 43

West Coast Hokitika Beach © Getty Images

HOKITIKA BEACH Hokitika offers a coastal experience that’s great in any weather.

In fact, no visit to Hokitika is complete without a walk along the wild and driftwood-strewn Hokitika Beach where you can feel the power of the Tasman Sea. Head out after rainfall and fossick for pieces of pounamu that have been washed up on the shore. Hokitika Beach is also a great place to enjoy a magnificent West Coast sunset.

HOURS:

Summer 9am-5pm Last admission: 30 minutes before closing

• Feed NZ’s Giant Eels • Guaranteed to see a kiwi • Catch and release a crawly 64 Tancred St, HOKITIKA P/F: +64 3 755 5251 E: natkiwi@xtra.co.nz www.thenationalkiwicentre.co.nz 44

PAGE 7 - REGIONAL MAP

West Coast Treetop Walkway tower, Hokitika © Birte Becker-Steel / Wilderness Trail ShuttleTourism

STRIDE OUT

Go high up into the canopy on the WEST COAST TREETOP WALKWAY. For panoramic views of the Hokitika Valley, and access to relics of the area’s mining heritage, head up to the RIMU LOOKOUT. Located at the top of Rimu Hill, the one-hour, 4km loop walk takes you over the Kaniere Bridge.

Walk to the GLOW WORM DELL from town. There is a lovely fern grotto by day and a stunning galaxy of twinkling glowworms by night.

Several walks start from the GOLDSBOROUGH CAMPING AREA, 16km northeast of Hokitika. Other activities include fossicking for gold, picnicking and camping.

The HOKITIKA HERITAGE TRAIL/ WALKWAY extends around the perimeter of Hokitika and provides an opportunity to explore aspects of the history of the town and the stunning environment. Pick up a leaflet from the i-SITE.

An exhilarating treetop adventure among temperate rainforest giants.

Experience life with birds high in the ancient rimu and kamahi tree canopy.

Easy access for all to enjoy along a steel platform 20 metres high and over 450 metres long. Come and enjoy a leisurely 45-minute to one-hour stroll.

Freephone: 0508 TREETOPS www.treetopsnz.com 1128 Woodstock-Rimu Rd, Hokitika RD 3 • 15 minutes south of Hokitika Email: bookings@treetopsnz.com

OFF

$5

Expires: Sep 2020

Conditions: This voucher entitles the bearer to $5 off the entry and all-day passes. Not valid with any other discount deals or special offers. (AA)

45

West Coast Penguin & fern glass art INSET: Glass blowing at Hokitika Glass Studio BOTH: © Hokitika Glass Studio BELOW: Greenstone (pounamu) carvings in Hokitika © West Coast Tourism

HOKITIKA IS A TOWN THAT NURTURES THE CREATIVE SPIRIT. ARTISTS TAKE INSPIRATION FROM STUNNING WEST COAST

TALENTED TOWN

E

xplore Hokitika’s art and craft trail where master carvers open their workshops to visitors as they work on pounamu. Visitors can even design, cut, shape and polish their own greenstone masterpiece. The trail also visits art galleries and other artists’ studios, including glass blowers, gold jewellers, knitters and woodturners. The local availability of abundant minerals and natural materials including ruby rock, found only in Hokitika, and gold, has fostered a community of talented artisans inspired by their surroundings.

SUNSETS AND VIEWS TO IMPOSING AORAKI MT COOK. IF YOU’RE LOOKING TO BUY POUNAMU (GREENSTONE OR NEW ZEALAND JADE), YOU HAVE COME TO THE RIGHT PLACE AS THERE IS A WIDE RANGE OF EXPERTLY CRAFTED JEWELLERY AND SCULPTURES SOLD HERE.

• Official accommodation partner with The West Coast Wilderness Cycle Trail • Choose from a variety of different room types to suit your budget: - The Penthouse – magnificent Tasman Sea views with true colours of comfort and luxury - Luxurious and spacious Oceanview Rooms overlooking the rugged Tasman Sea - Elegant Driftwood Rooms • Conveniently located to base yourself in Hokitika and complete each day of the trail with easy driving distance back to your accommodation • Room service • Free parking • Guest laundry service • Restaurant & Bar • Bottle store on site • Secure bike storage on site

111 Revell St, Hokitika Phone: +64 3 755 8344

0800 400 344 www.beachfronthotel.co.nz 46

PAGE 7 - REGIONAL MAP

Captivating Countyside HOKITIKA GORGE WITH ITS VIVID BLUE WATER IS STUNNING.

West Coast

I

f you think Hokitika Gorge can’t possibly be as good as the photos you’ve seen, think again. Located 33km from Hokitika, the vivid turquoise water and surrounding lush native bush are incredibly beautiful. Take the scenic loop from Hokitika by travelling back via Lake Kaniere, or alternatively turn the other way and head to the West Coast Treetop Walkway on Lake Mahinapua and then head back to Hokitika.

CREATURES CLOSE UP NATIONAL KIWI CENTRE

A

lthough kiwi are the stars of the National Kiwi Centre, you will also get to see and learn about other creatures, including crayfish and whitebait.

You can take part in the feeding of giant eels (at 10am, noon and 3pm daily) and can get up close to tuatara, New Zealand’s oldest ‘dinosaur’. This attraction, in the centre of Hokitika, is great for children and a perfect solution for a wet day.

Lake Kaniere © Getty Images INSET: Kiwi chick © Tourism NZ

OCEAN PAUA 2000 25 WELD ST HOKITIKA

EMAIL: OCEAN_PAUA@XTRA.CO.NZ

WWW.OCEANPAUA.COM

PH: +64 3 755 6128 OPEN 7 DAYS

Paua, jade, gemstones, Pacific shells, wood carvings, NZ punga & jewellery.

A visit to Ocean Paua 2000 will enable you to purchase that special, genuine NZ gift.

a gift with a difference

Beachfront Accommodation

• Direct Beach Access • Opposite Glowworm Dell • Small Farmyard with Animals Located just 3min from Hokitika township and set on an historical, elevated terrace. Surrounded by majestic views of the Southern Alps and the Tasman Sea, capturing breathtaking sunsets. Stations Inn offers luxury accommodation and an award-winning restaurant.

11 Blue Spur Road, Hokitika

+64 3 755 5499 • www.stationsinnhokitika.co.nz

16 Richards Drive, Hokitika Email: shining@xtra.co.nz

MOTELS & HOLIDAY PARK

0800 744 646

• Apartments, Chalets, Cabins, Powered and Non-Powered Sites • Free WiFi

www.shiningstar.co.nz 47

West Coast Ōkārito near Whataroa © Petr Hlavacek

Dynamic

GLACIER COUNTRY

Whataroa & Ross

T

he historical township of Ross lies between the Southern Alps and beautiful windswept beaches. In 1909, the town unearthed New Zealand’s largest gold nugget, the 2.81kg ‘Honourable Roddy’.

A replica of Roddy is in the museum in the Ross Goldfield’s Information & Heritage Centre.

Admire the town’s historical buildings, browse through the craft shops and enjoy the regenerating native forest and old gold workings on the Water Race Walkway.

Whataroa is a peaceful and rejuvenating retreat for travellers, and the base for trips to the Waitangi Roto Nature

FRANZ JOSEF GLACIER

134km SW of Hokitika on SH 6

Reserve, where New Zealand’s only breeding colony of kōtuku (white heron) nest. Jump on a guided jet-boat tour (October to March) to view the birds from an observation hide. Scenic flights to view the glaciers are also available from Whataroa.

The Kotuku Gallery on the main street is flush with Māori artefacts and a certified 3497-year-old whale bone.

You may also want to nip into the Petr Hlavacek Gallery.

His collection of West Coast photographs perfectly capture the wild essence of the region, often inspiring visitors to continue to Franz Josef in pursuit of frame-worthy snapshots.

WHATAROA tall foodstore platform • 103km SW of Hokitika WHITE HERON SANCTUARY TOURS LTD

• Visit New Zealand’s only White Heron (Kotuku) nesting colony.

• View White Heron, Royal Spoonbill and Little Shag.

• Scenic Jetboat Cruise into protected Nature Reserve.

• 2.5-hour guided tour. Entry by permit only.

• Seasonal, September-March.

• Motels, studio units and cabins available.

64 Main Rd, Whataroa, South Westland • P: 0800 523 456 www.whiteherontours.co.nz • E: info@whiteherontours.co.nz

48

PAGE 7 - REGIONAL MAP

West Coast

Franz Josef Glacier

THIS IS THE ONLY PLACE ON EARTH WHERE YOU CAN NIP OUT FOR A WALK ON A GLACIER AND BE BACK FOR LUNCH. ALTHOUGH 140 GLACIERS FLOW FROM THE SOUTHERN ALPS, ONLY THE FRANZ JOSEF AND FOX GLACIERS REACH THE LOWER RAINFORESTS AND A TRIP TO THE WEST COAST WOULD NOT BE COMPLETE WITHOUT SEEING THEM. Franz Josef Glacier © Getty Images

FRANZ JOSEF HELI HIKE

Save $25pp*

Discover more... #thehelicopterline @thehelicopterline

Freephone 0800 807 767 helicopter.co.nz * On presentation of this advert. Valid on direct bookings only, not valid in conjunction with any other offer.

49

West Coast

GLACIER COUNTRY MAP MAP REFERENCE Sealed Unsealed SH 1-9

Minor Roads Must-Do’s

30km

NZ Cycle Trail

Jacobs River

Tiratira Head

nd sb o

La Roaring Billy Falls

Haast

s ck

on

Ha

as t

P ass

Thunder Creek Falls

MT ASPIRING NATIONAL PARK

Blue Pools

Pleasant Flat Picnic Area

N

/

KA

T

er

O RI TI I IR

TE

M

OA

NA

Fantail Falls

Scenic flights & Glacier Landing

The Grand Traverse

Southern Lights

Lake Tekapo Mt Dobson Ski Field

Lake Tekapo

80

Lake Pukaki

Church of the Good Shepherd 8

Burkes Pass

Haast Pass/ Tioripatea

FREE PHOTOS OF YOU IN

F GLACIER FRANZ JOSE

ER

Te Wahipounamu South West New Zealand Heritage Area

6

H ig hw ay

PS AL

u ro

v Ri

Aoraki/ Mt Cook

U TH

Okuru Hannahs B a Clearing y Jackson /O k ahu Head Jackson Bay Waiatoto Neils Beach Arawata

Haast Junction

Tasman Lake

SO

Ja

Haast Ri ve r Haast Beach

gh

Aoraki Mt Cook National Park

Tasman Glacier

Hooker Lake

The Hermitage

Lake Paringa

AORAKI/ MT COOK NATIONAL PARK

Aoraki/ Mt Cook 3754

WESTLAND/ TAI POUTINI NATIONAL PARK

Bruce Bay Mahitahi

Lake Moeraki

Peters Pool

o Hine Hukatere

Fox Glacier/ Te Moeka o Tuawe

State Highway 6

Heretaniwha Point

Te Araroa Trail

ACTION!

A unique kayaking experience, on a glacial lake, with mirror-like water and unbeatable views!

0800 423 262

glacierkayaks.com

i R

R

6

nu

Franz Josef & Fox Glaciers

Gillespies Beach Sentinal Rock Alex Knob Track Lake an Terrace Walk ga Matheson Fox ru Douglas Walk a Ka Roimata Glacier o Hine Ri Josef Hukatere Franz ve Glacier/ r Valley Walk Ka Roimata Karangarua

ga

roa at a

Tramping

Franz Josef/ Waiau Lake Wombat

The Lake Matheson Walk

Gillespies Point Kohaihai

an

Whataroa

Glacier Hot Pools

R

K ar

TASMAN SEA

Rest Area Skiing

Te Taho

The Forks

o

No Rental Cars Allowed

W

Wa ih

Airfield Golf

Harihari

Wh

0

i-SITE Visitor Centre

6

Herepo

o

Rotokino

Okarito

WAIAU GLACIER COAST MARINE RESERVE

1

Okarito Lagoon

Okarito Lagoon

at a r

R

Te Wahipounamu South West New Zealand Heritage Area

Major Roads

Wh

a

SH 10-99

State Highway Shield

Harihari Coastal Walkway

Abut Head

SHORT WALKS SENTINEL ROCK has superb views of Franz Josef Glacier and is just a 20-minute return walk that climbs steeply from the glacier road car park on a well-formed track.

The KĀ ROIMATA O HINE HUKATERE VALLEY WALK (90-minute return) leads you towards the terminal face of the glacier. Can be affected

by flooding, so check conditions first.

PETER’S POOL, a small ‘kettle lake’, is a 30-minute return walk from the glacier road car park. The DOUGLAS WALK (one-hour return) continues from this point and passes moraine from the 1750 AD advance on a well-formed track.

FRANZ JOSEF GLACIER

Get inspired by the power and scale Scenic Cruises | Fishing Charters | Rainforest Walks

0800 800 732 glacierhelicopters.co.nz

50

0800 423 262

glacierlaketours.co.nz PAGE 7 - REGIONAL MAP

West Coast

P

art of Te Wāhipounamu South West New Zealand World Heritage Area, the Franz Josef Glacier is widely regarded as the jewel in its crown. The village has a dining/café scene and a variety of services and amenities. The glacier is 5km from the village and the walk to the glacier’s terminal face is around 45 minutes from the car park.

Franz Josef Glacier © Petr Hlavacek INSET: Helicopter trip to view Fox Glacier © West Coast Tourism

A

lthough the Southern Alps contain thousands of glaciers, only the Franz Josef and Fox glaciers reach the lower rainforests and a trip to the West Coast would not be complete without seeing them.

Franz Josef Glacier is named after Franz Josef I (1830– 1916), who divided his empire and became the emperor of Austria and king of Hungary.

The Māori name for the glacier is Ka Roimata o Hinehukatere or the tears of Hinehukatere. Hinehukatere was heartbroken when her lover died while climbing the mountains. Her tears flowed down the mountain as a river of ice and formed the glacier providing a spectacular memorial to her grief.

www.aspencourtfranzjosef.co.nz

These huge tongues of ice cut through the rock of the Southern Alps and flow down to their end points in low lying rainforest clad valleys.

The characteristic u-shaped river valleys bear deep horizontal scars from previous glacier retreats. There’s a range of guided walks and climbing experiences to suit all abilities.

Heli-hikes and scenic flights with or without snow landings are also available, as is a scenic skydive for the really adventurous. For those with tighter purse strings, a 1.5-hour walk from the Franz Josef Glacier car park (a 15-minute drive from town) will take you within 750m of the glacier of the same name.

For views of the Fox Glacier, walk the Fox Glacier South Side Walk, a 2-hour walk that follows the south bank of the Fox River through ancient podocarp rainforest to a bush clad viewpoint.

For more information about the 117,547ha Westland Tai Poutini National Park and for weather and track updates, visit the Westland Tai Poutini National Park Visitor Centre on Cron Street. Leave your drone in your car!

Drone use is not permitted in Westland Tai Poutini National Park.

LAKE MAPOURIKA Just north of Franz Josef Glacier is Lake Mapourika. This is South Westland’s largest lake and is renowned for trout and salmon fishing. As the winds sweep high above the lake, the water remains calm and reflects the forest on the lake fringes.

Facilities include: • King-size beds • Kitchens • Free WiFi • Spa bath units • Radiator and underfloor heating • Guest laundry For further details visit

New motel complex within Franz Josef Village.

Opened January 2014.

Comprises executive studio, one and two-bedroom luxury units.

Complex surrounded by native bush and only a 2-minute walk to bars, cafés etc.

Tariff: from $205 (2 persons).

Reservations Freephone:

Ph +64 3 752 0210 0800 752 222 E: franzjosef@aspencourt.co.nz

51

West Coast

Ice Caves GET IN TOUCH WITH YOUR INNER INUIT AND EXPLORE THESE NATURAL WONDERS ON A GUIDED TOUR (WITH ALL GEAR PROVIDED) OF THE GLACIERS. ICE CAVES FORM NATURALLY IN THE FRANZ JOSEF AND FOX GLACIER REGIONS, WHEN ICE MELTS OR WIND CARVES THROUGH THE GLACIER.

Guided tour, Fox Glacier © West Coast Tourism

T

he Franz Josef and Fox glaciers are huge, rapidly flowing glaciers that flow almost to sea level and are reactive to changes in local weather conditions. The glaciers have been seen to both advance and retreat, but have been retreating overall. The West Coast’s high annual rain and snowfall means that approximately 30m of snow falls on the glacier’s névé every year. With snowfall pushing ice down the valleys at a very high rate, their flow rates are up to 10 times faster than most valley glaciers.

CHATEAU BACKPACKERS & MOTELS

• Perfectly located and nestled in a rainforest, Chateau Backpackers & Motels offer a range of private motel rooms and high-end luxury dorm rooms.

• All of which include Free unlimited WiFi, Free breakfast, Free soup and Free international phone calls.

• Tariff: $25-$150 (2 persons).

8 Cron Street, Franz Josef Glacier • P: +64 3 752 0738 www.chateaunz.co.nz • E: franz@chateaunz.co.nz

FOX GLACIER

52

157km SW of Hokitika on SH 6

PAGE 7 - REGIONAL MAP

West Coast

Fox Glacier Lake Matheson & Paringa

Lake Matheson © Getty Images

F

ox Glacier township offers a more intimate ‘village’ experience than its neighbour Franz Josef. Tucked into the rainforest-clad foothills of the Southern Alps, the town is geared up for glacier walks, hikes and flights.

There is a range of facilities here and an award-winning café and art

gallery with beautiful views just 5km away at Lake Matheson.

Famous for reflecting a nearperfect image of Aoraki Mt Cook, Lake Matheson is 5km west of Fox Glacier township. A tiny lake well protected from the wind, its ale-coloured waters are often

LAKE MATHESON after local butcher/shopkeeper Murdoch Matheson

6km NW of Fox Glacier

Flag acknowledging it as a green space that meets sustainability, conservation and heritage criteria.

incredibly still, providing the perfect mirror for the mountains above and best viewed at sunrise and sunset.

The area features abundant bird life and is a great place for picnics, swimming and bushwalks. The Lake Matheson Walk is a definite mustdo. It has an international Green

Between Fox Glacier and Haast is Paringa, a haven for anglers and hunters. Here you can go bat-spotting and dine at a boutique salmon farm.

PARINGA 68km SW of Fox Glacier

THE SALMON FARM CAFE & SHOP Set in beautiful native forest overlooking Waituna Creek and the spectacular Paringa River Valley.

Specialising in fresh and smoked salmon The licensed café features a variety of home-cooked food to suit most tastes and budgets.

Feed the salmon, purchase salmon products, souvenirs and crafts. Free Entry.

Ph/Fax: 03 751 0837 Email: salmonfarm@xtra.co.nz State Highway 6, Paringa River, South Westland 7834

7 DAYS

www.salmonfarm.co.nz

53

West Coast Haast Beach • INSET: Ship Creek, Haast BOTH IMAGES: © West Coast Tourism

Haast SOMEWHAT A LONE RANGER UNTIL 1965 WHEN IT WAS FINALLY LINKED TO THE REST OF THE WEST COAST HIGHWAY, HAAST FEELS UNDER EXPLORED BUT WHOLLY INVITING.

HAAST after explorer and geologist Julius von Haast • 121km SW of Fox Glacier

Knitwear • Honey • Gifts @ Haast

New Zealand-made Merino Possum clothing, Possum Skin and Fur products, Manuka Honey, Wild Ferns Skincare products, live working bee hive display.

Santana

Tahutahi Road, Haast • Ph/Fax: +64 3 750 0791 E: shop@santana.co.nz • www.santana.co.nz Free overnight parking for self-contained campervans 54

T

he road over the Haast Pass is one of the most scenic in the country. The journey offers a variable landscape of rainforest, wetlands, lakes, glacier-fed rivers and white-water rapids. The Haast Highway has numerous lookouts, walks and waterfalls, most well signposted and easily accessed from the highway, with the glassy Blue Pools of Haast just north of Makarora a particular standout. A gravel path leads to glacier-fed water in deep azure pools and the water is so clear

you can see right to the bottom, creating an optical illusion of the brown trout suspended in mid air.

Other highlights along the way are the Roaring Billy Falls, the Pleasant Flat Picnic Area, Thunder Creek Falls, Fantail Falls and Cameron Creek.

• Located in the Haast township (just off SH 6) • Come & enjoy our iconic West Coast bar & restaurant • Cosy fire and surroundings • Buses welcome • Excellent lunch and dinner menus • World-famous fish & chips • West Coast whitebait here!

• Open 7 days: New opening hours: 10am till late (hours may vary over winter season)

South Westland, Haast • Ph: +64 3 750 0034 Email: darcy.hardantler@hotmail.com PAGE 7 - REGIONAL MAP

West Coast Haast countryside © West Coast Tourism

SURROUNDED BY THICK FOREST, HAAST ATTRACTS VISITORS FOR FISHING, HUNTING, HIKING, NATURE TOURS, SCENIC FLIGHTS, RIVER SAFARIS AND JET-BOAT RIDES.

View our memorial photo wall of local venison hunters and pilots 03 750 0825

ASURE ASPIRING COURT MOTEL HAAST

• 13 x ground-floor units facing the afternoon sun.

• Studio, 1 & 2-bedroom units, kitchen units, queen-size beds.

• Sky TV. Ample parking. Complimentary WiFi. Guest laundry.

• Stroll to shops & restaurants. 5min drive to beach.

• Tariff: $130-$185 (2 persons).

Seasonal rates.

Marks Rd, Haast Township • P: +64 3 750 0703 • Res: 0800 500 703 www.aspiringcourtmotel.com • E: info@aspiringcourtmotel.com

Cool wee country store stocking groceries, fresh fruit and veges, frozen goods, snack foods, takeaway hot food, drinks, cone ice creams and great coffees!

425 Haast-Jackson Bay Road, Haast • P: +64 3 750 0825 E: info@haastbeach.nz • www.haastbeach.nz

HERITAGE PARK LODGE

• Ground-floor motel units in quiet native bush setting with all day sun.

• Studio, 1 & 2-brm family units. Centrally located – 100m walk to shop, café, bar & restaurant.

• Free WiFi. Freeview. 5min drive to beach.

• Tariff: $115-$185 (2 persons). Seasonal rates.

10 Marks Rd , Haast • P: +64 3 750 0868 • Res: 0800 52 62 52 www.heritageparklodge.co.nz • E: info@heritageparklodge.co.nz

HAAST RIVER MOTELS & HOLIDAY PARK

• We have a wide range of quality accommodation – motels, self-contained bunk room & ensuite to suit individuals, couples, families & large groups with spacious sites for your caravans, RVs & tents.

• Tariff: from $40-$285 (2p) seasonal.

52 Haast Pass Hwy (SH 6), Haast • P: +64 3 750 0020 • Res: 0800 624 847 www.haastrivermotels.co.nz • E: info@haastrivermotels.co.nz

• Located in a rural setting at Haast Beach and just a few minutes drive to local restaurants and bars. • A short 200m walk to a magnificent beach.

• Studio and family units available. • Grocery store & petrol station on site.

417-425 Haast-Jackson Bay Road, Haast • P: +64 3 750 0803 E: info@haastbeach.nz • www.haastbeach.nz • Host: Nicola Johnston

55

West Coast Thomas River Hut at the Haast Catchment near Thomas River © Department of Conservation

6 OF THE BEST EXPERIENCES IN HAAST

1

WAIATOTO RIVER CRUISE

You might expect a jet-boat tour on the Waiatoto River to be like others in New Zealand: a fast, stomach-flipping experience at hair-raising high speeds. In complete contrast, this adventure errs on the side of slow and sedate. Passengers cruise up the river at a leisurely pace, with on board commentary and a chance to step out and absorb the scenery. With so much untouched natural beauty, including blue glacial water and subtropical rainforest, it’s not to be rushed.

2

WHITEBAIT – NET, CATCH & DEVOUR

Haast is West Coast whitebait country so you’re never too far from catching or eating it. The Curly Tree Whitebait Company serves a morish whitebait patty from its no-nonsense truck, but if you’re more inclined to catch your own, the whitebaiting season

56

commences 1 September until 14 November. In the West Coast the season starts a little later and finishes earlier than the rest of New Zealand. Just so you don’t step on the local’s toes, go to www.doc.govt.nz for more info.

3

WEST COAST SUNSETS

The route from Haast to Jackson Bay is littered with irresistible beaches, as well as dunes, lakes and wetlands. As night falls, the most spellbinding sunsets are often admired from Haast Beach.

Grab a scoop of chips, a warm blanket and park your derriere on the sand.

4

FISHING IN JACKSONS BAY

Before you even cast your line, the road to Jackson Bay will leave you feeling giddy. Often rated as one of the West Coast’s ‘best kept secrets’, it’s a pure visual splendour. Once at Jackson Bay,

the natural deep-water wharf is replete with cod, groper and terakihi.

5

DINE AT THE CRAYPOT

Not unsurprisingly The Craypot serves crayfish. Something of a local landmark and perched on roadside by the sea, guests feast on both the views and the region’s plumpest crayfish. There are no airs or graces to be found here, just simple good grub, caught locally and served with a smile.

6

SCENIC FLIGHT

Discover unadulterated lakes and native rainforest so dense it’s by and large untouched by human footprint. By soaring over the West Coast’s dramatic landscape of hidden rivers, glaciers and cascading cliffs by plane or helicopter, you’ll appreciate the remoteness of this spectacularly beautiful region.

H

aast is at the heart of Te Wāhipounamu UNESCO World Heritage area, a 2.6 million hectare landscape covering four national parks. There are small settlements, Haast Junction, Haast Beach and Haast itself, each with its own frontier town atmosphere. Helicopters fly deer hunters into the rugged ranges and local pubs display the mounted trophy heads of their kill. Everywhere you look is thick rainforest. Go fishing, tramping, take a nature tour, scenic flight, river safari or jet-boat ride. Look out for fantails, kaka and kiwi in the lowland forests.

PAGE 7 - REGIONAL MAP

FREE

10%

T-SHIRT OR CAP

OFF

AAPROMO20

FREE T-SHIRT OR CAP

EXPIRES: 31/12/2020

ABEL TASMAN CANYONS Marahau • Bookings: +64 3 528 9800 E: info@abeltasmancanyons.co.nz • www.abeltasmancanyons.co.nz

10% OFF ALL KAYAKING

EXPIRES: 31/05/2020

273 Sandy Bay Marahau Rd, Marahau • Res: 0800 732 529 • P: +64 3 527 8022 E: info@abeltasmankayaks.co.nz • www.abeltasmankayaks.co.nz

• Not available with any other offer.

• To be used in combination with any canyoning trip.

• Only applies to direct bookings.

• Please use code ‘AA’ online or mention at time of booking to access the discount.

• Not to be used in conjunction with any other offers or discounts.

• Direct bookings only • Not valid for trips on public holidays.

FREE

HALF

BUS TRANSFERS

PRICE

BUY 1, BRING A FRIEND FOR 1/2 PRICE

EXPIRES: 31/12/2020

ABEL TASMAN SEA SHUTTLE LTD Kaiteriteri Beach, Motueka • Res: 0800 732 748 • P: +64 3 527 8688 E: cruise@abeltasmanseashuttles.co.nz • www.abeltasmanseashuttles.co.nz

WILSONS ABEL TASMAN NATIONAL PARK 409 High St, Motueka • Bookings: 0800 205 206 E: info@AbelTasman.co.nz • www.abeltasman.co.nz

PROMO CODE: AAVCHR

• Conditions apply • Cannot be used with other discount offers • Bus transfer from selected accommodation in Nelson/Motueka to meet the 9am departure from Kaiteriteri and returning from Kaiteriteri at 4.30pm

• Any Vista Cruise or Cruise & Walk, buy 1, bring a friend for 1/2 price • Departs Kaiteriteri daily 9.20am, 10.30am, 1pm & 4.30pm (20 Oct-31 Mar) • Departs 9.20am & 1pm (1 Apr-19 Oct) • Check-in Kaiteriteri • Direct bookings only • Subject to availability • Not available with any other offer

FREE BUS TRANSFERS

EXPIRES: 31/12/2020

5%

10%

DISCOUNT

OFF

BOOK ANY KAYAK TRIP & SAVE 10%

EXPIRES: 31/12/2020

WILSONS ABEL TASMAN NATIONAL PARK 409 High St, Motueka • Bookings: 0800 205 206 E: info@AbelTasman.co.nz • www.abeltasman.co.nz

PROMO CODE: AAVCHRK

• 1/2 Day, Full Day or Kayak & Walk Combos • No experience necessary • Direct bookings only • Subject to availability • Not available with any other offers • Check in Kaiteriteri ticket booth

5% DISCOUNT ON ANY SCENIC FLIGHT

EXPIRES: 31/12/2020

ADVENTURE FLIGHTS GOLDEN BAY 290 Takaka-Collingwood Hwy, Puramahoi, Takaka • Bookings: +64 3 525 6167 E: flights@adventureflights.co.nz • www.adventureflightsgoldenbay.co.nz • Not to be used in conjunction with any other offer.

• Direct bookings only • Does not apply to online bookings.

• Minimum of 2 passengers • Voucher must be presented prior to payment.

FREE

FREE BRIDGE CROSSING WITH COMET LINE OR SUPAMAN RIDE

BRIDGE CROSSING EXPIRES: 31/12/2020

$5 OFF

$5 OFF ENTRY ON PRESENTATION

EXPIRES: 31/12/2020

THE BULLER GORGE SWINGBRIDGE SH 6, Upper Buller Gorge, Murchison • Freephone: 0800 BULLER P: +64 3 523 9809 • E: swingbridge@bullergorge.co.nz • www.bullergorge.co.nz

WEST COAST TREETOPS WALKWAY 1128 Woodstock-Rimu Rd, Hokitika RD 3 • Bookings: 0508 TREETOPS E: bookings@treetopsnz.com • www.treetopsnz.com

• Buy a Comet Line or Supaman Ride and get a free bridge crossing (value $10 per adult, $5 per child).

• Cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer.

• Does not apply to online bookings

10%

10%

OFF

10% OFF EXPLORE WEST COAST SCENIC TOURS

Expires: 20/12/2020

OFF

10% OFF ENTRY PRICE + ONE FREE COFFEE

EXPIRES: 1/10/2020

EXPLORE WEST COAST 164 Mackay St, Greymouth • Bookings: +64 3 768 7080 E: info@explorewestcoast.nz • www.explorewestcoast.co.nz

SHANTYTOWN Rutherglen Rd, Paroa, Greymouth • Bookings: 0800 742 689 P: +64 3 762 6634 • E: info@shantytown.co.nz • www.shantytown.co.nz

• Discount valid by booking direct with the Explore Office • Can not be used in conjunction with any other discounts or deals • Excludes Shantytown Tour

• Not valid with any other promotion or voucher • Coupon cannot be redeemed for cash • One free Espresso coffee (or tea) per voucher • Hot drink available from King Dicks Café • Does not apply to online bookings

5%

$25

OFF

OFF

$25 OFF A FRANZ JOSEF HELI HIKE

EXPIRES: 31/12/2020

5% OFF A KAYAK CLASSIC TOUR

FRANZ JOSEF HELI HIKE Main Rd, Franz Josef • Bookings: 0800 807 767 • P: +64 3 752 0767 E: franz@helicopter.co.nz • www.helicopter.co.nz

GLACIER COUNTRY KAYAKS 64 Cron Street, Franz Josef • Bookings: +64 3 752 0230 E: paddle@glacierkayaks.com • www.glacierkayaks.com

• Not to be used in conjunction with any other offer • Direct bookings only • Does not apply to online bookings • Weather dependent • Only valid on Franz Heli Hike

• Applies to full price Kayak Classic tour only.

• Not valid with any other offer. • Not valid between 26/12/2019-10/1/2020.

EXPIRES: 31/12/2020

$25PP

25%

DISCOUNT $25PP OFF ANY SCENIC FLIGHT

EXPIRES: 31/12/2020

GLACIER HELICOPTERS FRANZ JOSEF & FOX GLACIERS Main South Rd, SH 6, Franz Josef or Fox Glaciers Bookings: 0800 800 732 • P: +64 3 758 0755 E: franz@glacierhelicopters.co.nz • www.glacierhelicopters.co.nz

OFF

GET 25% OFF ANY HOT PIE

EXPIRES: 31/12/2020

COUPLAND’S BAKERIES • P: 0800 366 887 Offer available at any Coupland’s Bakeries Store in New Zealand Please search the Store Locator on our website www.couplands.co.nz

• Not to be used in conjunction with any other offer • Direct bookings only • Does not apply to online bookings • Weather dependent • Only valid on scenic flights

• Terms & conditions apply • Present this voucher to receive the offer • One voucher per person per transaction • Not to be used in conjunction with any other offer

15%

15%PP

OFF KJET 15% OFF KJET

EXPIRES: 30/09/2020

DISCOUNT 15%PP DISCOUNT OFF ANY SCENIC FLIGHT

EXPIRES: 31/12/2020

KJET Main Town Pier, Marine Parade, Queenstown • Bookings: 0800 52 92 72 P: +64 3 409 0000 • E: bookings@kjet.co.nz • www.kjet.co.nz

MILFORD SOUND SCENIC FLIGHTS 39 Lucas Pl, Frankton • Bookings: 0800 207 206 E: info@milfordflights.co.nz • www.milfordflights.co.nz

• Direct bookings only • Not in conjunction with any other offer

• Not to be used in conjunction with any other offer • Direct bookings only • Does not apply to online bookings • Weather dependent • Only valid on scenic flights

$25

10%

GIFT

FREE $25 GIFT WITH YOUR TANDEM SKYDIVE

EXPIRES: 31/12/2020

NZONE SKYDIVE 35 Shotover St, Queenstown • Freephone: 0800 DROP ZONE (376 796) E: skydive@nzoneskydive.co.nz • www.nzoneskydive.co.nz

OFF

10% OFF SPIRIT OF QUEENSTOWN SCENIC CRUISE OR MT NICHOLAS FARM EXPERIENCE

SOUTHERN DISCOVERIES Queenstown Visitor Centre, St Omer Wharf, 110 Beach St, Queenstown Freephone: 0800 264 536 • P: +64 3 441 1137 • www.southerndiscoveries.co.nz

• Free gift to the value of $25 upon completing your Tandem Skydive • One free gift per customer • Not valid with any other offer

• Website and direct bookings only • Use promo code AATRAVEL10 • Not valid in conjunction with any other offer • Discount only applicable on adult fares • See website for full terms and conditions

$25

10%

PP DISCOUNT $25PP OFF ANY SCENIC FLIGHT

EXPIRES: 31/12/2020

EXPIRES: 30/12/2020

OFF

10% OFF MILFORD SOUND NATURE AND SCENIC CRUISES

EXPIRES: 31/12/2020

THE HELICOPTER LINE – QUEENSTOWN Lucas Pl, Frankton, Queenstown • Bookings: 0800 500 575 • P: +64 3 442 3034 E: queenstown@helicopter.co.nz • www.helicopter.co.nz

SOUTHERN DISCOVERIES Milford Sound Visitor Centre, Freshwater Basin, Milford Sound Freephone: 0800 264 536 • P: +64 3 441 1137 • www.southerndiscoveries.co.nz

• Not to be used in conjunction with any other offer • Applies to direct bookings only • Does not apply to online bookings • Weather dependent • Terms and conditions apply • Not valid on group bookings

• Website and direct bookings only • Use promo code AATRAVEL10 • Not valid in conjunction with any other offer • Discount only applicable on adult fares • Not valid on Milford Sound Cruise & Kayak, Discover More or Coach & Cruise • See website for full terms and conditions

$10

10%

OFF

$10 PER PERSON OFF DOLPHIN OR ALBATROSS TOURS

EXPIRES: 31/12/2020

DISCOUNT 10% DISCOUNT OFF SEAL SWIM TOURS

EXPIRES: 31/12/2020

ENCOUNTER KAIKOURA 96 Esplanade, Kaikoura • Bookings: 0800 733 365 E: info@encounterkaikoura.co.nz • www.encounterkaikoura.co.nz

SEAL SWIM KAIKOURA 58 West End, Kaikoura • Bookings: 0800 732 579 • P: +64 3 319 6182 E: book@sealswimkaikoura.co.nz • www.sealswimkaikoura.co.nz

• Offer cannot be used with any other discount • Some special conditions apply • Direct bookings only • Online bookings promo code is AA1920

• Recently listed as “One of the world’s Top 10 Best Marine Encounters” by Lonely Planet.

• Discount applies to adult boat-based seal swimming tours only • Direct bookings only.

• Does not apply to online bookings • Not available in conjunction with any other offer.

$5

$20 DISCOUNT PER PERSON

DISCOUNT $5 OFF HALF-DAY SEAL KAYAKING TOURS

$20

DISCOUNT

EXPIRES: 31/12/2020

EXPIRES: 31/12/2020

KAIKOURA KAYAKS 19 Killarney St, Kaikoura • Freephone: 0800 452 456 E: paddle@kaikourakayaks.nz • www.kaikourakayaks.nz

KAIKOURA HELICOPTERS – WHALE WATCHING 16 West End, Kaikoura • Bookings: +64 3 319 6609 E: info@kaikourahelicopters.com • www.kaikourahelicopters.com

• Direct bookings only • One voucher per person • Does not apply to online bookings

• Present this advert to receive discount • Not to be used in conjunction with any other offer • Direct bookings only

HAVELOCK’S ICONIC RESTAURANT 73 Main Rd, Havelock Ph: +64 3 574 2824 Email: musselpot@xtra.co.nz www.themusselpot.co.nz

• Open lunch and dinner • Non seafood dishes • Gluten free • Vegetarian • Just look for the giant pot of mussels on the roof • Open 7 days through spring, summer & autumn • Visit our Facebook page for current seasonal hours

HOURS:

Summer 9am-5pm Last admission: 30 minutes before closing

• Feed NZ’s Giant Eels • Guaranteed to see a kiwi • Catch and release a crawly 64 Tancred St, HOKITIKA P/F: +64 3 755 5251 E: natkiwi@xtra.co.nz www.thenationalkiwicentre.co.nz