Contiki New Zealand Travel Guide (2011-12) by Contiki

New Zealand Including North & South Islands 2011\12

Legendary for a reason\ Your travel guide to Contiki & New Zealand

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Welcome to Contiki\ Kia ora and thank you for choosing Contiki New Zealand. We are delighted that you have chosen to visit and we look forward to helping you see and discover this amazing country. Before you start your tour, take some time to read through this Travellers Guide – there’s lots of helpful information about New Zealand and your holiday. It’s full of ideas like what to pack, how much money you’ll need, what to do in the city where your tour starts, and much more. We have found from past experience that the more knowledgeable our clients are prior to arriving in New Zealand, the more they enjoy their trip. We therefore recommend you read this booklet carefully before leaving home. We’ve been travelling the world for almost 50 years – we know it inside and out. From included sightseeing to places to eat and things to do in your free time, we know what you’re after and we’re looking forward to taking you there. On behalf of all the team at Contiki New Zealand – have a great holiday!

Tony Laskey General Manager Contiki New Zealand

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Personal details\ About me: Name: ...................................................................................... Home Address: ......................................................................... .................................................................................................. .................................................................................................. email:........................................................................................ Mobile Phone: ........................................................................... Home Phone: ............................................................................ Blood Group:............................................................................. Allergies: .................................................................................... Driverâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Licence (Home):............................................................ Driverâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Licence (International): .................................................. PIN: ............................................................................................

Emergency contact: Name:....................................................................................... Relationship: .............................................................................. Phone:.......................................................................................

Passport details: Number:.................................................................................... Expiry Date: ............................................................................... Date passport issued:................................................................ Where passport issued: .............................................................

Travel insurance: Company Name: ..................................................................... Policy Number:..........................................................................

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Finding your way around\ Before you go 6-13 • Map of New Zealand • What to pack • Baggage allowance • Checklist • Check-in online • Flying hints • Electricity & voltage • Passports & visas • Insurance & security • Health insurance • Money matters • Access to money • Credit cards • Pre-paid debit cards • Budgeting • Shopping • Calling home • Duty free Other information 15-17 • Your Contiki Crew • Accommodation & meals • Transport • DVD’s & music • Health & hygiene • Photography • Tipping • Laundry facilities • Winter departures • Explore moreoptional activities Where your tour starts 18-31 • Departure points • Pre-departure get together • If you miss the coach • Auckland • Christchurch • Queenstown • Wellington General information 32-45 • Weekends & public holidays • Useful telephone numbers • Clothing sizes • Calendar 2011-2012 • Receiving mail on tour • Mailing addresses • The travellers 10 commandments • New Zealand uncovered • General • Climate • Short history • The people • The Maori • The government • Religion • Agriculture • Crops • Dairying • Wool • Forest industry • Industry • Language • Flora • Fauna • My notes • Worldwide offices

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Map of New Zealand\ LE MI ETY H NIN BEAC

W C TASMAN SEA

PIC

SOUTH ISLA HOKITIKA

FRANZ JOSEF & FOX GLACIER HAAST PASS

ARTHUR’S PASS

CHR LAKE TEKAPO

LAKE OHAU MILFORD SOUND

QUEENSTOWN

PACIFIC OCEAN

DUNEDIN

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ILE YM

BAY OF ISLANDS RUSSELL

PARRY KAURI PARK

AUCKLAND

ROTORUA

WAITOMO CAVES

HUKA FALLS

TAUPO NORTH ISLAND TONGARIRO N.P

COOK STRAIT PICTON

CO AST

KA IKO UR A

H ISLAND

WELLINGTON

CHRISTCHURCH

OCEAN

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Before you go\ What to pack Travellers rule of thumb is ‘Decide how many clothes you want to take - halve the amount and that’s how much you’ll need!’ Baggage allowance Baggage is restricted to 1 suitcase (non-expanding) or bag (measuring 29”x20”x10”) with a maximum weight of 20kgs. You may bring a small airline type bag but no metal framed backpacks or vanity cases please. Below is a suggested clothing list. It’s worth remembering that in winter you’ll need more warm clothing; a jacket is essential. In summer, it can be cool in the evenings and it can rain, even in January. ❏

Rainproof jacket

❏

Motion sickness pills

❏

Warm jacket (for outdoor activities)

❏

Comfortable shoes

❏

Toilet Bag & contents

❏

Jeans

❏

Sunglasses

❏

Shorts/skirts

❏

Suntan lotion

❏

Casual shirts

❏

Insect Repellent

❏

T-shirts

❏

Aspirin/Medicines etc.

Clothes for an evening out

❏

Tissues

❏

1 Thick Sweater

❏

Tracksuit

❏

Socks

❏

Sewing kit

❏

Underwear

❏

Writing material

❏

Nightwear

❏

Address Book

❏

Swimwear & Towel

❏

Alarm Clock

❏

Thongs/sandals

❏

Small overnight bag

❏

Good shoes

NB: You’ll need your Contiki ‘Ticket to Ride’ travel vouchers to board the Contiki coach on the morning of departure. Don’t pack your passport in your suitcase. Check-in online Give us your details and tell us what you’re interested in before you start your tour. It’ll save you time, so you can get on with having fun as soon as you arrive. Visit contiki.com/checkin for details or see p.9 for more.

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Online check-in\ Save yourself time & Check-in online Want to jump the line & get on with having fun on the first day of your tour? You can. Take advantage of Contiki’s easy-to-use online Check-in service before you start your tour & skip the paperwork on day 1. It takes less than 5 minutes & it’s simple to use, all you need to do is: • Visit contiki.com/checkin • Follow the instructions on screen & enter all your essential details (like your booking reference, passport & insurance details) • You’re checked in - it’s that easy. You’ll also have access to all your essential tour information on your Contiki profile & a whole lot of cool other stuff on the Contiki Community.

Get connected\ Get advice, meet your trip mates, or become a fan! Join the Contiki Community online & connect with your tour mates before you jet off. Or meet & chat with our superknowledgeable Contiki team & past travellers for lots of handy travelling tips. Get answers to the big questions (like backpack or suitcase & how much money to take) & the small ones too. Jump in to the conversation, start your own or have a read of what others have posted. You’ll also find tons of great advice & articles in Contikipedia too. If you’re on Facebook or Twitter, remember to follow us for the latest fun & offers.

Join in now at contiki.com/community, Or follow us at: facebook.com/contiki

twitter.com/contiki

youtube.com/contiki flickr flickr.com/contikiholidays

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10 Flying hints Ensure you carry all your travel documentation in your hand luggage, which should also include your camera, toiletries (subject to aviation law), paperbacks etc. Make sure you take advantage of duty free shopping, but check the current duty free limits that apply in the country of your destination. The longer flights can be made a little more enjoyable by wearing loose clothing, good comfortable shoes as well as walking the aisles regularly, eating sensibly and drinking plenty of fluid (preferably not alcohol). Try to get some sleep and upon arrival, adjust immediately into local time by waiting until evening before sleeping - this should relieve the effects of jet-lag. Electricity & voltage New Zealand operates on a alternating current that varies between 220 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 240v. Clients travelling from outside New Zealand or Australia will require an adaptor which allows you to plug into a 3 pin power socket.

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11 Documents & money\ Passports and visas Visa requirements vary. Please check with your travel agent to make sure you have the necessary documents. Don’t forget your passport, it’s compulsory to carry a passport for presentation at the port of entry and exit. Insurance and security It is essential that you are constantly security conscious. Your most important possessions such as your passport, money and camera should be carefully guarded at all times. Loss of such items not only causes considerable difficulties, but could ruin your holiday. It is compulsory for all international passengers to be adequately covered for Cancellation and Curtailment Insurance prior to their tour departure, and we strongly advise insurance against loss of or damage to baggage, loss of personal money and travellers cheques. Health insurance Medical and hospital treatment is not free to visitors (except for injuries covered by accident compensation). It is compulsory for all clients to be adequately covered by Medical Insurance prior to their tour departure. Please purchase your Insurance from your travel agent prior to your tour departure. If you suffer from any form of illness, be sure to have an adequate supply of the medicines that you require for the duration of the tour. You must advise us through your travel agent of any important medical condition you may have, before departure. Money matters In New Zealand there is one currency, the New Zealand dollar. In paper notes you’ll find $100, $50, $20, $10 & $5. The coins available are $2, $1, $.50, $.20 & $.10 Access to money We highly recommend that you carry your currency in a number of different ways (cash, credit cards, pre-paid debit cards) so that you have access to money at all times while you’re on tour. Credit cards All major credit cards are accepted in New Zealand, including American Express, Diners Club, Visa and MasterCard. Always remember to guard your card, even on holiday: •

Check the expiry date of your card when making travel plans.

•

Ensure you know your P.I.N. number. Memorise it. Don’t write it down.

•

Ensure that your card is kept in view at all times when paying for goods and services.

•

Ensure that the total amount of your purchase is entered on the sales voucher before you sign it.

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12 •

Check that you have received your credit card back after using it for payment.

•

Retain all copies of sales vouchers until you have verified them against your statements.

•

Insist that all ‘spoiled’ sales vouchers are destroyed in your presence.

•

Only carry your cards on your person or in your hand luggage.

•

Never leave your cards unattended in your hotel rooms, vehicle or any other place.

•

Treat your cards as you would cash.

•

Report immediately the loss or theft of your credit cards.

The international numbers you should call to report the loss of your credit cards are: Mastercard:

0800 449 140

(Call Free)

Visa:

0508 600 300

(Call Free)

American Express: 0800 656 660

(Call Free)

Pre-paid debit cards These cards can be purchased via a company such as Travelex or through most major retail banks. They operate like a regular debit card and provide a safe and portable way to carry your money. Simply use a cash machine in New Zealand to withdraw NZ dollars from your pre-paid account. Travelex or your bank will provide advice as to what currency is best to initially load onto your card. Budgeting The amount of extra money you will need to cover expenses such as nightlife, drinks, and gifts depends entirely on personal tastes and lifestyle. As a rough guide, we suggest you budget approximately NZ$100 per day. In New Zealand, there is 15% GST (Goods and Service Tax, included in the price) on all items (food, clothing, alcohol, souvenirs etc.). NB: The above is only a guideline and does not include costs of explore more optional activities. Shopping During your tour, you will be given the opportunity to see various demonstrations of local craft making where you may also decide to purchase items. The various shops are selected for their standard of demonstration, service and because they guarantee their products. These shops, however, are private businesses and have no connection with Contiki Holidays. Any decision to purchase goods from them is, therefore, entirely up to you. Often, various shops will provide a mail service, but please be aware that it can take a long time for the goods to arrive home and when they arrive they may be liable to customs and excise duty. Customs and excise regulations are different in every country and we recommend you obtain a copy of these before you leave home.

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13 Calling home: ekit Save on International Calls. Look out for your Contiki Global Phonecard in your travel documents and set it up before you go. To make an international call, dial the access number for the country you are calling from (see card for details or visit www.contiki.ekit.com for the New Zealand access number). Enter your ekit account number and PIN and listen to the prompts. Dial the country code (e.g. UK 44, Australia 61 or America 1), area code (without the leading zero) and the phone number you wish to call. Your Tour Manager can recommend the most efficient and convenient places from which to make calls. Duty free Duty free allowances for travellers aged 18 and over: •

200 cigarettes or 50 cigars or 250g tobacco

•

6 bottles of wine or 1 dozen cans of beer

•

3 litres of spirits.

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Other info\ Your Contiki Team\ Tour Manager Think of your Tour Manager as your walking, talking guidebook. They’re there to help you make the most of each day. They’ve been on an intensive training trip so they really know their stuff and can’t wait to share it all with you. Best of all they take care of all the organising – accommodation, sightseeing, optional activities, etc – so that you don’t have to. Driver Our Tour Drivers are well trained to handle jam-packed streets and busy motorways. They know their way around, so you can sit back and relax. Best of all, they’ll drop you right at your door so you won’t have to lug your bags around. Accommodation & meals On all tours, you will experience a whole variety of accommodation that has been specially chosen by Contiki for their local flavour. The location and atmosphere of these nightstops enable you to fully enjoy the surrounding area and are one of the many highlights of your tour of New Zealand. Your hosts are locals who know their region inside out - so it’s the best opportunity to get to know New Zealanders and their way of life. Breakfast is included every morning. For lunch, there’s an opportunity to go your own way, so you can meet some locals and try all kinds of new foods, unique to New Zealand. Some evening meals are included in your tour price, the menu varies from a pizza night in Queenstown to a traditional Maori hangi in Rotorua. The free evenings are a great opportunity for a night out to sample more of the local cuisine like NZ lamb, delicious green lipped mussels, plus much more. Your Tour Manager can advise on some places to go for some great local cuisine. Transport\ Your coach Our modern air-conditioned coaches are some of the best in New Zealand and we update our fleet regularly to make sure they’re environmentally friendly. Then there are the Contiki extra’s like panoramic windows, a stereo sound system, reclining seats, a toilet, and power points for ‘charging on the go’ (don’t forget your power adaptor). Since you’ll spend a bit of time on the coach travelling from place to place, your Tour Manager will explain the best ways of enjoying your time and keeping the coach comfortable for everybody on board. Your comfort is our top concern and the toilet on the coach is for everyone to use. We do make frequent stops every few hours where you will have the opportunity to buy a drink or snack, smoke (if you do) and use other toilets. Note: New Zealand law prohibits any consumption of alcoholic beverages on board the coach.

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16 DVD’s & music on board All our coaches are fitted with DVD players and full stereo systems. As our supply of movies and music is not inexhaustible, you are invited to bring along your favourites. You’ll be able to take it in turns to choose the films and music. A guitar is welcome on board the coach - but it is your own responsibility. Health and hygiene It’s important to look after your health whenever you are travelling, as you may have more late nights and early mornings than you do at home. Also, different air, water, food and lifestyle can reduce your resistance to sickness and you may find a course of vitamins will help you. Please keep these points in mind while travelling - sickness can reduce the enjoyment of a wonderful holiday. Your Tour Manager will give you some hints on how to stay healthy while on tour, and will also be able to provide you with obtaining medical assistance if you require it. If you are on a regular course of medicine/ contraception, it is a good idea to bring a supply sufficient for the whole time you are away from home as your particular medicine and/or brand may not be readily available in New Zealand. NB: It is very important you continually maintain high standards of personal hygiene to minimise the risk of infection and illness on tour. Your Tour Manager will provide you with helpful hints relating to your tour. Photography We have found that the average person takes loads of photos whilst in New Zealand, so ensure you have enough storage space on your memory cards. Your Tour Manager will endeavour to allow as much time as possible for the taking of photographs. There will, however, be occasions, when it may be difficult and impractical to stop the coach. Tipping In all areas of the service industry from restaurants, bars & hotels, it’s becoming increasingly common practice to tip if you feel that the service received has been excellent. The same goes for your Contiki Team. If you feel that your Tour Manager & Driver’s service has been exceptional, then feel free to tip them. Our travellers often ask what is a reasonable tip for a Contiki Team that have done an excellent job of looking after them. Around NZ$3 per person per day is what we suggest. Remember that tipping (and how much you tip) is entirely optional - it’s entirely up to you. Laundry facilities Depending on the length of your tour, it’s a good idea to start the tour with enough clothes to keep you going for at least a week, so if it does take you a while to get the opportunity to do washing, you won’t be caught out. Ask your Tour Manager for any info on accommodation where laundry facilities are available. Laundry services are available at extra cost.

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17 Winter departures On our Winter departures, please bear in mind the inconsistency of the weather and the shorter daylight hours. For these reasons, it may be necessary to make earlier starts and it may not be possible to offer all our explore more optional activities. During the winter months, these colder periods can be used by some public works departments to decorate, renovate or renew exhibitions and therefore some public buildings could be closed. There is, however, the added advantage of less crowded museums, restaurants, etc. when travelling during this time. Explore More optional activities A Contiki New Zealand tour is all about exciting â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;once in a lifetimeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; outdoor adventures that really get the adrenalin pumping. Some of these are included in the tour price, which we call included highlights and our exclusive Only With Contiki exclusive inclusions. However, to allow you the freedom of tailoring your holiday so you can see and do what you enjoy, there is also a wide range of optional activities available before, during and after your tour. To assist you with planning your budget, a list of explore more optional activities is sent to you with your travel documents. Contiki does not operate nor have any liability for any listed excursions as all are the responsibility of Third Party Operators. Please remember that all adventure activities are undertaken at your own risk. For any that you choose, the Tour Manager will make firm bookings in advance and you will be liable for all the costs at that time.

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Where your tour starts\ Departure points Check final documents for your tour departure time. For tours departing Auckland, there will be no pre departure meeting the night prior. Please meet in the foyer of the Mercure Hotel at 11am on day of departure. Auckland *Christchurch Mercure Hotel Auckland Bealeyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Hotel 8 Customs Street, Auckland. 263 Bealey Avenue, Tel: (09) 377 89203 Christchurch Tel: (03) 379 8660 Queenstown Queenstown Airport (11am on day of departure) NB: Tours culminating in Queenstown finish at Queenstown Airport at 2pm on final day.

Wellington Abel Tasman Hotel 169 Willis Street Wellington Tel: (04) 385 1304

* Subject to change. Due to the earthquake in Christchurch on the 22nd February 2011 it is important that you re-confirm your accommodation with Contiki or your travel agent prior to travel.

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20 Pre-departure kick-start meeting At the Bealey’s Hotel in Christchurch, your Tour Manager will post a notice advising you of your pre-departure kick-start meeting. Please bring your passport to the meeting and your Contiki ‘Ticket to Ride’ vouchers. Afterwards, most of you will want to go out together for a meal - ask your Tour Manager for the best value places in town. If you miss the coach Should you miss the Contiki coach on the day of departure, check with the Hotel reception or contact Contiki Operations on (09) 3001601. Contiki will help arrange for you to catch up with the tour, but you will be responsible for any expenses incurred.

Auckland information\ Contiki’s accommodation in Auckland: Mercure Hotel, 8 Customs Street, Auckland. Tel: (09) 377 8920 How to get there All clients arriving into Auckland Airport (Domestic or International) can make their way to the Mercure Hotel by using Air Bus Express. Air Bus Express departs both terminals every 20 minutes and tickets can be purchased from the driver. You will receive a 20% discount off the normal fare on presentation of your Contiki Travellers Guide book to the driver. Air Bus Express will transfer you back to the airport for the same discounted price. Air Bus Express operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. Another alternative getting to the city is in a Shuttle van. You can book a transfer with Super Shuttle, freephone 0800 748 885 for reservations and prices (or locate them in the “Shuttle” area outside the airport terminal building). Main tourist sights in Auckland Sky Tower Rising above the Sky City Casino, the tallest building in the Southern Hemisphere at 328 metres (1,000 ft), provides wonderful views of Auckland city and the surrounding area. The Tower also includes a selection of interactive displays. Kelly Tarlton’s Underwater World At road level, motorists heading out along Auckland’s scenic Tamaki Drive could not be blamed for believing it was all harbour vistas, sail boats, cappuccinos and ice creams, but all is not as it seems... In a subterranean world penguins parade in a wonderland of ice and snow, while sharks, giant eels, stingrays and scores of shimmering fish swim the ocean like depth, this is Kelly Tarlton’s Antarctic Encounter and Underwater World. Viaduct Harbour Conveniently located in Downtown Auckland the Viaduct is home to a great collection of restaurants and bars, the National Maritime Museum and a superyacht marina. A great place to absorb the excitement of the Auckland Harbour, daytime or nightime! Devonport A short ferry ride from the Downtown ferry building is the North Shore’s suburb of Devonport. The collection of shops and cafes offer a village atmosphere and the climb up Mt Victoria rewards you with beautiful harbour views towards the city and beyond. Or maybe a lazy afternoon on the lawn by the waters edge is for you?

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21 Useful information Banks: Monday - Friday: 9.00am to 4.30pm Chemist: After hours Newmarket Day Night Pharmacy (Urgent Pharmacy), 60 Broadway, Newmarket, Auckland City. Ph. (09) 520 6634, Open 9am to 11pm (7 days a week) Post office: Auckland City Postshop, Citibank Building, 23 Customs Street, Ph. (09) 302 1059. NB: this location is approx. 100m from the Mercure Hotel. Monday - Friday: 8.00am to 5.30pm Saturday: 10.00am to 2.00pm Shopping: Queen Street, Auckland City: Monday - Thursday: 9.00am to 6.00pm Friday: 9.00am to 9.00pm Saturday: 10.00am to 6.00pm Newmarket: Monday - Wednesday: 9.00am to 5.30pm Thursday - Friday: 9.00am to 7.00pm Saturday - Sunday: 10.00am to 5.00pm Parnell: Monday - Friday: 9.00am to 5.30pm Saturday & Sunday: 10.00am to 4.00pm Karangahape Road: Monday - Friday: 9.00am to 5.30pm Saturday: 9.30am to 12.30pm

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Christchurch information\ Contikiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s accommodation in Christchurch: * Bealeyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Hotel, 263 Bealey Avenue, Christchurch. Tel: (03) 379 8660 * Subject to change. Due to the earthquake in Christchurch on the 22nd February 2011 it is important that you re-confirm your accommodation with Contiki or your travel agent prior to travel. How to get there All travellers arriving into Christchurch Airport (Domestic or International) can make their way to the their hotel using the Super Shuttle service. Tickets can be purchased from the driver. This service departs regularly from outside the terminals on the Shuttle/Taxi ranks. The Shuttle company can also transfer you back to the airport. Call Toll Free 0800 748 885 for Super Shuttle reservations and prices. Getting around Christchurch Due to the devastating earthquake that hit Christchurch on the 22nd February 2011, at the time of this Travellers Guide going to print, the central city area is currently closed to the public. However, visitor attractions in areas around Christchurch are open. For up to date info on what visitor attractions are open and what activities are available please ask at the hotel reception or telephone the Christchurch Isite (Tourism information centre) +64(03) 379 9629.

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24 Main tourist sights in Christchurch The River Avon flows through Christchurch and is lined with gardens and trees. Early settlers wanted to call it The Shakespeare. The Christchurch Town Hall is an example of New Zealand architecture and worth a visit as is Christs College - considered by many as ‘THE’ school in New Zealand. Nearby are the luscious Botanical Gardens, some say they are the most beautiful in the world, open daily, from sunrise to dusk. Christchurch Museum and Art Gallery in the Botanical Gardens are also worth a browse, open every day from 9am to 5pm. Ferrymead Historic Park includes a 100-acre Time Machine, with all kinds of restored vehicles, machines and buildings, including a fully operational railway and tramway. Open daily 10.00am to 4.30pm. * Note: Some of the attractions listed above & below may not be available due to earthquake damage. Please check with hotel reception or the Isite (Tourism information centre) service +64(03) 379 9629. Other things to do: • Hire a bike and cycle through Hagley Park. • Go punting on the Avon River. • In winter, take a day trip to Mt Hutt - Ski field in the sky. • Visit the scenic Mt Cavendish Gondola. Useful information Banks: Monday - Friday: Tuesday:

9.00am to 4.30pm 9.30am to 4.30pm

Pharmacies, post offices & shopping: Due to the earthquake that hit Christchurch on 22 February 2011, many areas of Christchurch were severely damaged. For details on urgent pharmacies, the closest Post Office and the best shopping areas, please see hotel reception or contact Christchurch Visitor information on +64(03) 379 9629.

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Queenstown information\ Contiki’s accommodation in Queenstown: Aspen Queenstown, 139 Fernhill Rd, Fernhill, P.O.Box 260, Queenstown Tel: (03) 442 7688 How to get there All clients arriving into Queenstown Airport can make their way to the Aspen Queenstown using Super Shuttle. Tickets can be purchased from the driver. This service departs regularly from outside the terminals on the Shuttle/Taxi ranks. Call Toll Free 0800 748 885 for reservations. Getting around Queenstown Queenstown’s main shopping area is an easy twenty minute walk from the Aspen Queenstown. Taxi’s and shuttles into central Queenstown are also available at a reasonable cost. Speak to the staff at hotel reception for further information. Main tourist sights Queenstown Most of Queenstown’s main attractions can be seen on your tour. Here are a few suggestions on other activities in the area. •

Hire a mountain bike and explore the local area.

•

Try high country fishing.

•

In summer, go sailing or water skiing on Lake Wakatipu.

•

In winter, try snow skiing on one of Queenstown’s nearby ski fields.

•

Take on one of the areas world famous walks.

•

Go White Water Rafting, Skydiving & Bungy Jumping.

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Wellington information\ Contiki’s accommodation in Wellington: Abel Tasman Hotel, 169 Willis Street, Wellington. Tel: (04) 385 1304 How to get there All clients arriving into Wellington Airport can make their way to the Abel Tasman Hotel using Super Shuttle. Tickets can be purchased from the driver. This service departs regularly from outside the terminals on the Shuttle/Taxi ranks. Call Toll Free 0800 748 885. Alternatively take a taxi from the airport to the hotel. Wellington Combined Taxi’s are a reputable operator and they are located in the taxi rank immediately outside the terminal. Getting around Wellington Wellington’s main shopping areas are Lambton Quay, Willis Street and Courtney Place. The hotel staff will be happy to advise you of day tours in and around the city. Main tourist sights Te Papa – National Museum (55 Cable Street) New Zealand’s largest and most modern museum, opened in 1998, contains both local and international exhibits and artefacts. Open 7 days 10.00am to 6.00pm, late night Thursday to 9.00pm. Admission free. Houses of Parliament (Molesworth Street) Conducted tours leave from the Houses of Parliament’s ground floor every day except Christmas, Boxing and New Year’s Day. Check for details of time. Tel: (04) 817 9503. Michael Fowler Arts Centre (Wakefield Street) Named after the former Mayor of Wellington, Sir Michael Fowler, who was determined the capital would have a new and grand town hall. Wellington Zoo (Newtown) Open daily 8.30am to 5.00pm. Cable Car and Botanical Gardens Wellington boasts one cable car which whisks you straight up the hillside from Lambton Quay past Victoria University to the Botanical Gardens. Useful information Taxis: Wellington Combined Taxis: Tel: (04) 384 4444 Banks: Monday - Friday: 9.00am to 4.30pm Chemist: Wellington Urgent Pharmacy 17 Adelaide Road Wellington Tel: (04) 385 8810 Monday - Friday: 5.00pm to 11.00pm Saturday, Sunday and Public Holidays: 8.00am to 11.00pm Post office: The nearest Post Office is on Manners Street, a five minute walk from our hotel. Monday - Friday: 8.30am to 5.30pm Saturday: 9.00am to 3.00pm Shopping: Monday - Friday: 9.00am to 5.30pm Saturday: 9.00am to 4.00pm

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General information\ Weekends & public holidays It is un-avoidable to have a touring programme that is not in certain places on weekends, public holidays and on days of closure for public buildings, shops and museums. We regret that on occasions you may miss certain opportunities, but these are kept to a minimum. PUBLIC HOLIDAYS 2011/2012 2011 Apr 22 Good Friday Apr 25 Easter Monday Apr 25 Anzac Day Jun 6 Queen’s Birthday (observed) Oct 24 Labour Day Dec 25 Christmas Day Dec 26 Boxing Day Dec 27

Christmas Day Public Holiday

2012 Jan 1 Jan 2 Jan 3 Jan 23 Jan 30 Feb 6 Apr 6 Apr 9 Apr 25 Jun 4 Oct 22

New Year’s Day Day after New Year’s Day Holiday New Year’s Day Public Holiday Wellington Anniversary Day Auckland Anniversary Day Waitangi Day Good Friday Easter Monday Anzac Day Queen’s Birthday (observed) Labour Day

Useful telephone numbers Australian Consulate (Auckland) U.S.A. Consulate (Auckland) Japanese Consulate (Auckland) Canadian Consulate (Wellington) British Consulate (Wellington) German Consulate (Wellington) Air New Zealand Qantas Airways Jet Star Pacific Blue British Airways Japan Airlines Singapore Airlines United Airlines Contiki Holidays

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(09) 921 8800 (09) 303 2724 (09) 303 4106 (04) 473 9577 (04) 924 2888 (04) 473 6063 0800 737000 0800 808767 0800 800 995 0800 670 000 (09) 966 9777 0800 525 747 or (09) 379 9906 0800 808909 0800 747400 (09) 300 1601

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33 Clothing sizes Sizes vary from country to country around the world. so as a guide we have listed the approximate comparative sizes. However, we do recommend before making the purchase, you make sure you are happy that the size of the article you are purchasing is correct. Men Suits and coats American/English

Continental

58 17

Shirts American - English 15

151⁄2

153⁄4

161⁄2

Continental

Sweaters American/English

S 34

M 36-38

L 40-42

XL 44

Continental

46-48

50-52

Shoes American

71⁄2

81⁄2

91⁄2

Continental

Women Dresses, coats and suits American 32

English

Continental

Blouses and sweaters American 32

English

Continental

Shoes American

51⁄2

61⁄2

71⁄2

81⁄2

91⁄2

English

31⁄2

71⁄2

Continental

Children’s wear American

English

Continental

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CALENDAR 2011 January

February

30 2 9 16 23

31 3 10 17 24

4 11 18 25

5 12 19 26

1 6 7 8 13 14 15 20 21 22 27 28 29

April S 3 10 17 24

M 4 11 18 25

5 12 19 26

6 13 20 27

31 3 10 17 24

4 11 18 25

5 12 19 26

6 13 20 27

1 2 7 8 9 14 15 16 21 22 23 28 29 30

October

2 9 16 23 30

3 10 17 24 31

6 13 20 27

7 14 21 28

March

1 8 15 22

2 9 16 23

3 4 5 10 11 12 17 18 19 24 25 26

1 8 15 22 29

2 9 16 23 30

3 10 17 24 31

4 11 18 25

5 6 7 12 13 14 19 20 21 26 27 28

4 11 18 25

5 12 19 26

7 14 21 28

1 8 15 22 29

2 9 16 23 30

3 10 17 24 31

1 6 7 8 13 14 15 20 21 22 27 28 29

S 6 13 20 27

7 14 21 28

1 8 15 22 29

2 9 16 23 30

7 14 21 28

1 8 15 22 29

3 4 5 10 11 12 17 18 19 24 25 26 31

S 5 12 19 26

M 6 13 20 27

2 3 4 9 10 11 16 17 18 23 24 25 30

September

4 5 6 11 12 13 18 19 20 25 26 27

November W

S 6 13 20 27

June

August

May T

July

4 11 18 25

5 12 19 26

6 13 20 27

7 14 21 28

1 2 3 8 9 10 15 16 17 22 23 24 29 30

December

7 14 21 28

1 8 15 22 29

2 9 16 23 30

3 4 5 10 11 12 17 18 19 24 25 26

S 4 11 18 25

M 5 12 19 26

6 13 20 27

7 14 21 28

1 2 3 8 9 10 15 16 17 22 23 24 29 30 31

CALENDAR 2012 January

February

1 8 15 22 29

2 9 16 23 30

3 10 17 24 31

4 11 18 25

5 6 7 12 13 14 19 20 21 26 27 28

April M

1 8 15 22 29

2 9 16 23 30

3 10 17 24

4 11 18 25

5 6 7 12 13 14 19 20 21 26 27 28

July M

1 8 15 22 29

2 9 16 23 30

3 10 17 24 31

4 11 18 25

5 6 7 12 13 14 19 20 21 26 27 28

October 1 7 8 14 15 21 22 28 29

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6 13 20 27

March

7 14 21 28

1 8 15 22 29

2 3 4 9 10 11 16 17 18 23 24 25

6 13 20 27

7 14 21 28

1 8 15 22 29

2 9 16 23 30

3 4 5 10 11 12 17 18 19 24 25 26 31

2 9 16 23 30

3 10 17 24 31

5 12 19 26

6 13 20 27

7 14 21 28

1 8 15 22 29

2 9 16 23 30

4 5 6 11 12 13 18 19 20 25 26 27

S 4 11 18 25

M 5 12 19 26

4 11 18 25

M 5 12 19 26

6 13 20 27

7 14 21 28

1 2 3 8 9 10 15 16 17 22 23 24 29 30 31

3 10 17 24

4 11 18 25

5 12 19 26

6 13 20 27

1 2 7 8 9 14 15 16 21 22 23 28 29 30

September

3 4 10 11 17 18 24 25 31

November

June

August

5 12 19 26

May

T 6 13 20 27

30 2 9 16 23

3 10 17 24

4 11 18 25

5 12 19 26

1 6 7 8 13 14 15 20 21 22 27 28 29

December W

7 14 21 28

1 2 3 8 9 10 15 16 17 22 23 24 29 30

30 2 9 16 23

31 3 10 17 24

T 4 11 18 25

W 5 12 19 26

1 6 7 8 13 14 15 20 21 22 27 28 29

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35 Receiving mail on tour It is always good to receive mail whilst away from home. To ensure your mail finds its way to you, make sure you advise your friends and relatives to put your tour code and arrival date as well as your name and address on the envelope. Contiki cannot accept responsibility for mail or lost correspondence. e.g. Mr. John Smith Contiki Tour - Grand Explorer Arrival Date: 16 August 2010 c/o Bealey’s Hotel P.O Box 21-189 Edgeware Christchurch NEW ZEALAND IMPORTANT: Advise your friends and family to: 1. Use Airmail only. 2. Always show a return address on the envelope. 3. Airmail at least TEN DAYS from Australia (2 weeks all other countries) prior to your arrival at any given place. Mailing addresses AUCKLAND Mercure Hotel Auckland P.O. Box 1707 Newton Auckland

QUEENSTOWN Aspen Queenstown 139 Fernhill Rd, P.O.Box 260, Fernhill, Queenstown 9300

CHRISTCHURCH Bealey’s Hotel P.O. Box 21-189 Edgeware Christchurch

WELLINGTON Abel Tasman Hotel 169 Willis St. PO Box 11173 Wellington

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36 The Traveller’s Ten Commandments 1. Thou shalt not expect to find things as they are at home for thou hast left home to find things different. 2. Thou shalt not take things too seriously, for a carefree mind is the essence of a carefree holiday. 3. Thou shalt not let other tourists get on thy nerves as we are all here for the same reason and thou art paying good money to enjoy thyself. 4. Thou must know at all times where thy passport lies, for a person without a passport is a person without a country. 5. Thou shalt not worry, for he that worrieth hath no pleasure. 6. Remember that thou art a guest in other lands and he that treateth his host with respect shall in turn be respected. To learn to speaketh ‘please’ and ‘thank-you’ in thy host’s tongue will make thee thy host’s friends. 7. Thou shalt not judge the entire people of a country by one person who was a poor host. 8. Thou shalt remember that to err is human and to forgive is divine. 9. When in Rome, thou shalt be prepared to do as the Romans do. 10. Thou shouldst remember that if thou was expected to stay in one place, thou would have been created with roots. anon.

A bit about New Zealand\ The following pages contain background notes on the history and geography of New Zealand. We hope you find it useful and interesting. General New Zealand is situated in the South Pacific just west of the International Dateline. It is approximately 1,600 kilometres south east of Australia, 9,000 kilometres from Singapore and 11,000 kilometres south west of San Francisco. The two major islands of New Zealand, the North and South Islands, separated by the narrow Cook Strait, give the country a combined area of approximately 269,000 square kilometres. New Zealand has some spectacular scenery in a relatively compact area. The scenery varies from amazing snow capped mountains, deep lakes, sub-tropical rainforests, glow worm caves to glaciers and snowfields, volcanoes, beautiful white sand beaches and thermal geysers. Mountains are a feature of New Zealand, covering a large part of the South Island and Central North Island. There are 19 peaks over 3,000 metres, the highest being Mount Cook at 3,754 metres. This also makes for some great winter skiing conditions in places like the central North Island & in the South Island in places like Queenstown & Wanaka.

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37 Comparative size of New Zealand to other countries: Country Area (thousand sq.km) New Zealand 269 United Kingdom

244

Japan

368

Australia

7,707

USA

9,363

Canada

9,961

Climate The climate in New Zealand can vary, with gorgeous sunny days in the summer, to crisp but fine days in the winter (and snow in some places too!). Temperature variations between the seasons aren’t huge, but in the central South Island some wider ranges can be recorded. The sunshine average is about 2,000 hours annually, with rainfall for the greater part of the country ranging between 60-150 cm annually. A short slice of history… When New Zealand was discovered by the Dutch navigator Abel Tasman in 1642, it was found to be already inhabited by the Maori people who had migrated from Polynesia in oceangoing canoes (Wakas). Maori history supports the view that the migration was spread over several generations and perhaps centuries, with the last major migration in approximately 1350. A number of further voyages followed, such as James Cook who in was the first European to set foot on New Zealand. His extensive charting of the New Zealand coastline dispelled the myth that the West Coast, first charted by Tasman was the coastline of the ‘Great Southern Continent’ that was believed to exist by leading geographers of the time. The First European settlers arrived in 1792 and in following years coastal whaling stations were established and missionaries arrived from places like the UK. Colonisation began in 1825, but it wasn’t until 1840 that any major scheme showed success. The immediate effect of European contact was the outbreak of a series of wars between colonists and the Maori. However, after 1870 there was no further hostilities and a lasting peace has prevailed since that time. British Sovereignty was formally proclaimed over New Zealand in 1840 by Captain Hobson with the Treaty of Waitangi, however all territorial rights remained with the Maori Chiefs and their tribes.

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38 In 1861, gold was discovered in the South Island around areas such as Arrowtown & the West Coast, leading to a huge influx of miners from around the world. The gold rush increased wealth and population, as well as stimulatting economic and political growth in New Zealand. In 1907, New Zealand became a fully self-governing nation within the then British Empire. Complete autonomy from Britain was not gained until 1947 when the Statute of Westminster (1931) was formally adopted by the New Zealand Government. New Zealand is a member nation of the Commonwealth & during World War I and World War II, New Zealand troops fought with British and allied troops and New Zealand soldiers were sent both to Korea and Malaysia in the 1950’s and Vietnam in the 1960’s. New Zealand is a member nation of the Commonwealth. During World War I and World War II, New Zealand troops fought with British and allied troops and contingents were sent both to Korea and Malaysia in the 1950’s and Vietnam in the 1960’s. Historic and economic links with Britain, Western Europe and Australia have remained, but more recently New Zealand’s relationships have widened to include South East Asia, the South Pacific and many other areas of the world. The people Of New Zealand’s population of 4.3 million, approximately 75% live in the North Island. 85% live in urban areas, while 65% of this number are concentrated in eight major centres. Here are some approximate figures to give you an idea: Auckland 1,300,000, Wellington and Hutt 450,000, Christchurch 350,000, Hamilton 130,000, Dunedin 118,000 Napier and Hastings 125,000, Palmerston North 75,000 and Invercargill 50,000. New Zealand is a multi-cultural society and here’s an idea of our diverse Kiwi culture our diverse Kiwi culture. % of Population European 68 Maori

Polynesian

Chinese

Indian

Other

The Maori The Maori people are the original settlers in New Zealand whose migrations are thought to have preceded European settlement by around 400-500 years.

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39 Maori have a unique culture and many special customs, which you’ll enjoy experiencing and learning about when you travel in New Zealand. Traditional Maori art and craft continues today, with the art reflecting the Polynesian origins of the Maori. It has a has a distinctive and unique form, ranging from intricately designed wood carvings, to weaving, stonework and tattooing. New Zealand’s government New Zealand is a self-governing Member of the Commonwealth of Nations, with its seat of Government in Wellington. The Crown is represented by a Governor-General appointed by the Queen. Parliament consists of one House, the ‘House of Representatives’ and elections are held every three years. The two main political opponents are Labour and National Parties. Maori votes are allocated seven of the 120 seats in the House of Representatives, with Maori voters having the choice of voting on the Maori or European roll. In defined urban and country areas, a system of local government has jurisdiction over rating, roads, building and general local administration. Religion New Zealand has a wide range of religious diversity, with freedom of religion being protected since the signing of the Treaty of Waitangi in 1840.

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40 Agriculture New Zealand is a major agricultural producer - the country’s main export. New Zealand has become the biggest exporter of sheep, meat and dairy products in the world and is also the second largest exporter of wool. These three exports account for 64 per cent of the country’s total exports. In addition, a wide and expanding range of annual crops is grown. Crops Grain production, fruit growing and berry-fruit cultivation are important forms of New Zealand agriculture. Dairying Due to the climate in New Zealand, grass grows the year round, so with this good growing climate along with stable rainfall, has assisted the dairy industry in its role as the world’s biggest and most efficient exporter of dairy produce like butter and cheese. Wool New Zealand’s climate means it’s ideal for sheep farming. High-country farms concentrate on wool production, while the more fertile lowland farms - carrying up to 13 sheep per hectare - specialise in lamb and mutton production. With about 40 million sheep on farms, it’s not surprising that New Zealand is the third-largest producer and second-largest exporter of wool in the world. Forest industry After agriculture, forestry is the most important industry. There are more than 750,000 hectares of fast-growing planted forest in the country as a result of over 20 years of extensive planning, development and cutting of earlier, mature forested areas. Forests of native New Zealand tree species cover about 6.2 million hectares of the country. Forest industries produce timber, wood pulp, newsprint, wrapping papers, carton boards, printing papers, building boards, plywood, veneers, turpentine, tall oil and other products for export while supplying about 90 per cent of New Zealand’s own forest product needs. Industry Over 308,000 New Zealanders are employed by the country’s manufacturing industries. These include processing plants for textile and leather goods, fruit and vegetables, tobacco, rubber goods, plastics, building bricks, tiles, cement, plywood, hardboard, paints and furniture. Aircraft engineering and manufacture, electrical cable production, the processing of chemicals, soap, cosmetics, pottery, glassware, cardboard cartons, wrapping paper, and the production of whiteware appliances also contribute to employment in the manufacturing industry.

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41 New Zealand also processes natural mineral resources too, including oil refining, the processing of New Zealand’s own offshore oil and gas condensates, the smelting of aluminium, the mining of iron and deposits, and processing associated with steel and glass production. Language English and Maori are the official languages of New Zealand. Many place names are Maori names, so you’ll get used to to the pronunciation of names & places whilst visiting. All consonants are pronounced as in English, except ‘wh’ which is generally pronounced as ‘f’ and ‘ng’ which is pronounced as in ‘sing’. Here are some handy hints on pronunciation of some vowels during your visit: ‘a’ as in car ‘e’ as in they ‘i’ as in feet ‘o’ as in pour ‘u’ as in flew Flora As New Zealand is so isolated from other countries, this has seen the country develop a native tree and plant list with a lot of unique species you won’t find anywhere else in the world. Native forest is varied, from high country ‘beech’ forests with their carpets of moss underfoot, to lush coastal rainforests with unique species like the ‘nikau’ (native palm tree) and many large tree ferns. Some of the native trees have been important timber producers, such as the kauri, rimu, totara and cacti. Fauna New Zealand has no native land mammals apart from two rather rare bats. Recently however, imported pigs, goats, deer, rabbits, wallabies, weasels, ferrets, opossums and many others have established themselves here. There are no snakes and very little by the way of other harmful creatures. Our native bird fauna contains many unusual species, like the non-flying kiwi and weka, the bellbird and tui, kea’s, moreporks or the native owl, the kotuku or white heron, and the fernbird. Along the extensive coastline are many seabirds, among them penguins and the great albatrosses in places like Dunedin. Lakes and rivers contain trout and salmon.

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My notes\

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Worldwide offices\ AUSTRALIA Travel House, Level 3, 35 Grafton Street, Bondi Junction, NSW 2022 Telephone: +61 (0) 2 9511 2200 contiki@contiki.com.au UNITED KINGDOM Wells House, 15 Elmfield Road Bromley, Kent, BR1 1LS Telephone: +44 (0) 20 8225 4200 travel@contiki.co.uk EUROPE Avenue Louis-CasaĂŻ 58, 1216 Cointrin, Geneva, Switzerland contiki.geneva@bookttcuk.com NEW ZEALAND 2nd Floor, 15-17 Day Street Newton, Auckland Telephone: + 64 (0) 9 300 1601 contiki@contiki.co.nz AMERICA 801 East Katella Avenue, 3rd Floor Anaheim, CA 92805 Telephone: +1 714 935 0808 contiki@contiki.com CANADA 33 Kern Road, Toronto, ON M3B 1S9, Telephone: +1 416 932 9377 contactus@contiki.ca SOUTH AFRICA 6 Hood Avenue Rosebank 2196 Johannesburg Telephone: +27 11 280 8400 reservations.sa@contiki.com ASIA 3 Pickering Street China Square Central (Nanking Row), #02-28/29, Singapore 048660 Telephone: +65 6337 8166 contiki@pacific.net.sg

contiki.com If you choose to write to Contiki via the Internet, please provide your home address so we are able to reply to you in writing. The information in this booklet was, to the best of our knowledge, correct at the time of going to print but we cannot be held responsible for any subsequent changes to the contents of it. Edition 2011 ÂŠ Contiki New Zealand all rights reserved.

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