Kiwi Experience Exposed Guide 2012 by Amanda Dyer

EXPOSED!

MY NAME

MY PNR

INFORMATION IN THIS GUIDE HAS BEEN SOURCED FROM OUR DRIVER GUIDES AND ACCOMMODATION AND ACTIVITY PROVIDERS. IT WILL HELP SATISFY YOUR APPETITE FOR ADVENTURE!

04 Welcome To Kiwi Experience

94 The West Coast

06 North Island Route Map

112 Wanaka & Queenstown

07 South Island Route Map

132 Bottom Bus

14 Unique Experiences with Kiwi Experience

140 Christchurch & Kaikoura

16 Awesome Overnight Stops with Kiwi Experience

158 Mountain Biking Around NZ

18 A Bit About The Land Of The Long White Cloud

162 Kiwi Experience Passes

20 Quick Facts 23 How To Use This Guide 24 Frequently Asked Questions 26 The Bay Of Islands & The Far North 34 Auckland 42 Hot Water Beach and the Coromandel Peninsula

156 Walks Around NZ 160 Surfing Around NZ 167 Tips For Travelling With Us 168 Kiwi Experience Driver Guide Photos 172 Timetable - All Pick Up Points 175 Terms & Conditions 178 Activity Prices for Kiwi Experience Passengers 180 Accommodation Listings

46 Waitomo 54 Rotorua 64 Taupo & Tongariro National Park 70 East As 76 River Valley 82 Wellington 90 Kaiteriteri & Abel Tasman National Park 5

Welcome to Kiwi Experience SO, WHY CHOOSE KIWI EXPERIENCE? We’ve designed this guide so that you can make the most out of your visit to Aotearoa land of the long white cloud.

Legendary hop-on, hop-off bus adventures for travellers by travellers. Starting in 1989 and with over 22 years perfecting our route, you know that you’ll be travelling with the experts when you travel with Kiwi Experience.

This guide is full of valuable information about the places that we take you to. Take a copy home as a souvenir. Or show it to your mates and make them green with envy.

Flexible travel. Choose from over 20 different pass options and hop off and hop back on when and where you like. We’ve got more departures too, so more choice on when to travel.

A LITTLE BIT OF OUR HISTORY...

Take your time. You’ve got 12 months to complete your trip, so take it easy. You’ll also spend less travel time on our buses during the day, which means more time in destinations to enjoy NZ’s best bits.

This year, we’re 23. Because we’ve been doing what we do for so long, we feel that our legendary hop-on, hop-off service is the best you’ll find in New Zealand. Join the Kiwi Experience story in 2012 and find out the secret to our success. Kiwi Experience was established in 1989 by three Kiwis recently back from their overseas experience - and a dog called Gyro, the brains behind the operation - with the aim of providing flexible transport options for independent travellers that linked New Zealand’s scenic locations and adventure activities. Today Kiwi Experience is part of New Zealand’s premier tourism operator group - Tourism Holdings Limited (thl). thl started as a helicopter business used by hunters to recover deer in remote bush land and now they’re one of New Zealand’s leading tourism companies!

This guide book was produced by... THE SPEIL - a combo of past and present Kiwi Experience Whanau PHOTOS - Flea, Kiwi Experience staff, and activity operators DESIGN/PRODUCTION/ADVERTISING - Robyn, Liz, Jen, Justin, Alicia, Monica and Cube Creative Print & Design.

Address: 85 Beach Road, Auckland, NZ Phone: +64 9 336 4286 Email: enquiries@kiwiex.co.nz www.kiwiexperience.com

Driver Guides. Our legendary Driver Guides are 100% Kiwi and totally passionate about our country and their commentary, insights and advice will ensure you discover the real NZ. Unique Stops. Our amazing unique stops will take you to the heart of NZ with interesting characters and gobsmacking landscapes. Accommodation sorted. Your first night’s accommodation at every overnight stop can be organised by your Driver Guide and is guaranteed even at the busiest times of the year. Great deals, awesome inclusions. Our Driver Guides can sort you out with awesome deals to all sorts of activities around NZ, plus loads of great stuff that won’t cost you a cent.

HERE’S WHERE YOU CAN FIND US:

Kiwi Experience route - the north island

Please note: The ferry between the North and South Island is not included, but can be booked by your Driver Guide

Kiwi Experience route - the SOUTH island

GO GREEN, NOT MEAN

Us Kiwis love our country so we’ve written a few tips to help you care for New Zealand while you’re cruising around on the big green bus. Make sure the only footprint you leave here is in the sand!

• Don’t spit or litter - do the right thing and put it in the bin! • Chewing gum and cigarette butts count as rubbish - in the bin, not the gutter. • Recycle paper, cardboard, glass, plastic and cans. • Be careful with pollution around waterways, it can kill New Zealand’s marine life.

• Change that 20 minute shower to a five minute one instead. • Turn taps off while you shave and brush your teeth. • Use the half flush button on the toilet... when you can. • Only turn on a heater if you have to and close your curtains and room doors to keep the heat in. Sleeping in a shared dorm helps keep you warm! • Turn off the lights when you’re not in the room (or need to set the mood...) • Turn appliances off when not in use. • Once your mobile, MP3 player or camera is fully recharged, unplug it. Even when fully charged the charger still uses electricity. • Team up with a fellow traveller and share your laundry loads.

GO GREEN, NOT MEAN

• You don’t need a plastic bag for an apple and a soft drink. If you need a bag take an old bag or use a recyclable one. • New Zealand drinking water is some of the best in the world, so reuse your plastic water bottles (saves you money too). • Get refill packs for washing detergents, buy smaller packs or share with others so you don’t throw chemicals away at the end of a trip. Give your leftovers away to other travellers. • Reuse your beer or wine glass. • Avoid buying plastic cutlery and using straws for your drinks. Straws look pretty silly anyway. • Wash vegetables in a large bowl together rather than one at a time under running water.

• Be fire wise and always observe our forests fire risk status (the colourful signs you see on the side of the road). • Follow marked trails on nature walks and support conservation by paying entrance fees where requested. • Didymo (also affectionately known as rock-snot) can threaten New Zealand lakes and rivers. Make sure you rinse yourself and your clothes with fresh water before re-entering another waterway. Do your bit and help keep New Zealand green.

GREEN ON THE INSIDE TOO...

As a company, we’re always working on new ideas about how we can be environmentally and socially responsible. Our efforts have been recognized by a big thumbs up from Qualmark. Qualmark is New Zealand’s official mark of quality for tourism operators and we’ve scored an Enviro Silver endorsement for responsible tourism.

Conservation VOLUNTEERING EXPERIENCE • ONLY $320 4 DAY • ONLY $475 6 DAY

KEEN TO BE GREEN? A 4 or 6 day volunteering experience on a Conservation Volunteers project will have you helping out with a variety of tasks in a stunning location, including tree planting, seed collection and removal of weeds to create an ecological corridor spanning the mountains to the sea.

5 nights accommodation in the hostel-style accommodation at the project, and all meals. You will be guided by the expertise of an enthusiastic Conservation Volunteers Team Leader during the project and will receive a certificate of participation at the end of the project.

The projects are located in Punakaiki on the West Coast of the South Island of New Zealand. Perched on the edge of the Southern Alps, Punakaiki encompasses spectacular limestone landscapes, river gorges, caves, coastal and inland walks and the world renowned Pancake Rocks and blowholes. The coastline is the natural habitat of the Little Blue Penguin and the only nesting ground of the Westland Black Petrel. The forests bear nikau palms and rata trees that are hundreds of years old.

Conservation Volunteers are a non-profit organisation who recruit and manage teams of volunteers from Australia, New Zealand and around the world to work on important environment and wildlife conservation projects and this is your chance to get involved!

Your Green Not Mean pack includes transfers from the Punakaiki Visitor Centre, either 3 or

Important to note: The Green Not Mean pack is supplied by Conservation Volunteers New Zealand and must be purchased in conjunction with a Kiwi Experience national travel pass. You must select the date you wish to start your project when you purchase your Green Not Mean Pack. All Green Not Mean projects are based in Punakaiki, therefore, you must allow sufficient time to travel on Kiwi Experience in order to reach Punakaiki by the start date of your project. Please contact Kiwi Experience Reservations on +64 9 336 4286 or enquiries@kiwiex.co.nz for more information.

CONNECT, SHARE... AND WIN! CONNECTING WITH KIWI EXPERIENCE...

One of the best things about Kiwi Experience is the people you meet along the way: Driver Guides, fellow passengers, locals and that cutie from Kaiteriteri who said you had cool hair. However, despite best intentions most of us never get around to exchanging details or lose that tiny piece of paper they were written on. So here’s how...

WWW.KIWIEXPERIENCE.COM Check out our website where you can post videos, photos, stories, comments and questions on our community pages. You can log in and share your awesome Kiwi Experience with people who are thinking about travelling, or get your mates back home to check it out and make them jealous!

FACEBOOK GROUP officialkiwiexperiencefanpage Kiwi Experience - the official group check it out for travel updates, inspiration, awesome competitions and discounts.

TWITTER @kiwiexperience Follow us for all the latest gossip, competitions, specials, news, plus funny and interesting tales of life on the road with Kiwi Experience!

YOUTUBE www.youtube.com/KiwiEx Share your ‘Sweet as’ Kiwi Experience videos on the Kiwi Ex site. Remember to stick ‘Kiwi Experience’ in the video title so that you’ll have the chance to win prizes.

CONNECT, SHARE... AND WIN!

video • photo • comment OR story Post your legendary experiences, photos and video on one of our Kiwi Experience online spaces and you’ll have the chance to win $200 worth of prizes. Check out www.kiwiexperience.com for more information.

How to enter On Facebook? Upload your awesome photos or top travel experiences at officialkiwiexperiencefanpage On Twitter? Tweet a photo or tell us about your trip to @kiwiexperience Got a video? Upload your footage to You Tube – Kiwi Ex Got a blog? Stick a link to www.kiwiexperience.com so we can see what you’re up to!

Winners The winners will be announced by mid month of the following month. We’ll post the winning entries on our site and let you know if you have won! Check out www.kiwiexperience.com for more information. 15

unique experiences with Kiwi Experience

THE FOLLOWING UNIQUE EXPERIENCES ARE ALL INCLUDED ON SELECTED KIWI EXPERIENCE PASSES.* Sandboarding, Cape Reinga

Sandboard down gigantic sand dunes at the very top of New Zealand where the Pacific Ocean meets the Tasman Sea.

Cathedral Cove, Coromandel

Only accessible by foot or boat, check out one of New Zealand’s most scenic coastal spots.

Hot Water Beach, Coromandel

Tides permitting, dig in the sand and make your own hot pool at Hot Water Beach.

Marae Tour of Whangara, East Coast

Ruakuri Walk

Spectacular walk through the limestone cave formations of Waitomo.

Taranaki Falls

This walk is amazing! On a clear day you can see Mt Ngauruhoe’s symmetrical cone (also known as Mt Doom) and the older, more eroded Tongariro and Ruapehu mountains.

Cape Foulwind

An excellent track to the viewing platforms overlooking the seal-breeding colony.

One of the most culturally and historically significant places in the East Cape. Receive a full tour of the marae with a local. Learn the history of this very special place, home to ‘Whale Rider’.

Punakaiki Pancake Rocks

Huka Falls

A West Coast icon, Lake Matheson provides amazing late afternoon reflections, early morning sunrises and spectacular sunsets.

See for yourself why these falls are the most visited natural attraction in New Zealand.

Secrets of Bungy, Queenstown

Learn all about the ‘Secrets of Bungy’ in Queenstown. More than just a visit to the Kawarau Bridge, this is a fun, informative and interactive tour.

Milford Sound Experience

Experience the wonder and beauty of Milford Sound during a 2 hour cruise. This trip includes a hot buffet lunch and entry to the underwater observatory!

Karangahake Gorge

Explore the native bush-clad gorge, a swing bridge or two, and a one kilometre long tunnel. Awesome views!

Punakaiki is best known for its Pancake Rocks and blowholes. A must-see when visiting the West Coast.

Lake Matheson

ARE YOU KIDDING?*

unique experiences with Kiwi Experience

*NO JOKE. WE GIVE YOU LOADS OF INCLUSIONS THAT WILL COST YOU NOTHING SO YOU HAVE A BETTER TIME.

SWEET AS! 17

AWESOME overnight stops with Kiwi Experience

Where will you be sleeping tomorrow night? Travel with Kiwi Experience and it could be a remote adventure lodge, a historic West Coast pub with its own secluded beach or an isolated farm owned and run by local Maori. We take you to ‘out there’ places as well as the ‘must see’ destinations. Get amongst the locals and experience Kiwi hospitality at its best.

Soak it up at Pipi Patch, Bay of Islands. Stunning scenery at Nomads, Queenstown.

Chill out at RIver Valley

Reconnect with Nomads, Queenstown. Enjoy the landscape of Franz Josef.

Backpacking at Base Taupo.

AWESOME overnight stops with Kiwi Experience

CHECK OUT SOME OF OUR UNIQUE STOPS.

With Kiwi Experience you’ll get to go to Te Kaha Homestead Lodge with the O’Brien Whanau, Eastenders Farmstay at Rangitukia (next to the middle of nowhere), Tatapouri Beach Hostel - be the first to see the sunrise, River Valley Adventure Lodge - so off the beaten track, the bus can’t get down the hill... and Mahinapua West Coast Pub with New Zealand’s oldest publican, Les.

Be the first to spot the sun at Tatapouri.

Enjoy sunny Kaiteriteri.

Cosy at River Valley.

Hot Water Beach.

Relaxing on the beach at Mahinapua. Soaking up the sun at Kaiteriteri.

a bit about the land of the long white cloud Maori mythology states that Aotearoa (land of the long white cloud) was discovered around 950AD by the legendary Polynesian explorer, Kupe. However, it wasn’t until circa 1350AD that the great migration brought seven waka (canoes) from the mythical land, Hawaiki, to settle this land. The name, Aotearoa, is said to have come about when Kupe was navigating the South Island. The Southern Alps were capped with snow at the time. Kupe mistakenly thought that he was looking at a long white cloud; snow obviously a rarity in tropical Hawaiki. The first European arrived in 1642 with Dutch explorer, Abel Janszoon Tasman. Tasman charted the coastline without setting his foot on land. However, some of his crew stepped off at the tip of the South Island. Seen by local Maori as a threat, they were killed. When Tasman returned to Holland the land was named New Zealand after the Dutch Province, Zeeland. However, Tasman didn’t pluck up the courage for a return visit. Englishman Captain James Cook was the first European credited with stepping foot onto the land. More importantly, he brewed the first batch of beer in New Zealand (typical POMs eh?). In 1835, the British, nervous of French colonisation, encouraged local Maori to declare independence. Five years later, the British were not satisfied that the French threat had disappeared so they created the Treaty of Waitangi between Maori Iwi (tribes) and the British Crown, supposedly to fend off the threat. It was signed on 6th February 1840 and the variations between the English and Maori text are debated to this day. Between 1845 and 1872 there were the New Zealand Land Wars, mostly centred in the central North Island. The main premise was Maori land being sold to Europeans in contradiction to perceived Treaty obligations. Unfortunately, it was at this time that Maori introduced Europeans to trench and guerrilla 20

warfare. No one won, but many Maori lives were lost along with many customs and traditions. In the early to mid 1800’s blocks of land were sold off to Britain under projects such as the Wakefield Scheme and the Canterbury Company. It was under these schemes that towns like Wellington and Christchurch were initially settled. Wealthy landowners held interviews with potential settlers in Britain. This was to ascertain whether or not a person would be suitable to settle here and manage the landowner’s land and business ventures without supervision. This differs quite a lot from the ‘shackle dragging’ settlement of our Australian neighbours! ANZAC (Australia, New Zealand Army Corps) Day marks a significant date in New Zealand history. On the 25th April 1915 during World War I, our Australian cousins and us went into Gallipoli, Turkey, but were ambushed in the since renamed ‘ANZAC Cove.’ New Zealand suffered its greatest number of deaths in one day, losing 2,700 people. Bear in mind that as our population was roughly one million at the time, this loss was significant. Today, New Zealand is a first world industrialised nation with a population of almost four and a half million. This figure pales in comparison to our sheep population of 32.4 million. Our nation is ethnically diverse and Auckland is the largest Polynesian city in the world. Sport dominates our culture, in particular; rugby, sailing, netball and cricket. Kiwis are crazy about their coastline and the great outdoors. The barbeque, bush and beach play a large part in our recreational time.

quick facts Location

Oceania, South Pacific Ocean, Southeast of Australia

Geographic coordinates

41 00S, 174 00E

Area 268,680sqkm Coastline 15,134km Elevation extremes

Lowest Point Pacific Ocean 0m Highest Point Mount Cook 3,754m

Population 4,436,106 Total population sex ratio

0.99 male / 1 female

Life expectancy

Total Population 80.15 years, Male 78.1 years, Female 82.2 years

Ethnic groups European 74.5%, Maori 9.7%, Pacific Islander 3.8%, Asian and others 7.4%, mixed 7.8% and unspecified 3.8% Languages

English (official), Maori (official), Sign Language (official)

Currency

NZ$ (New Zealand Dollar)

Main exports

Dairy, meat, wool, food and wood

Religion Unspecified/no religious affiliation 26.7%, Anglican 12.9%, Catholic 11.8%, Presbyterian 9.3%, Methodist 2.3%, Jedi (yes, we put it in our census) 1.5%, Buddhist 1.2% and other 34.3% Literacy 99% Democratic System - MMP (Mixed Member Proportional), a Government type combination of proportional representation, and electorate MPâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

Recognises the British Monarch as sovereign

Capital

Wellington (Wellington City, excluding Hutt Valley, pop 179,466)

Head of State Queen Elizabeth the Second, By the Grace of God, Queen of New Zealand and Her other Realms and Territories, Head of the Commonwealth, Defender of the Faith Prime Minister

John Key

Administrative divisions 16 regions; Auckland, Bay of Plenty, Canterbury, Gisborne, Hawkeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Bay, Manawatu-Wanganui, Marlborough, Nelson, Northland, Otago, Southland, Taranaki, Tasman, Waikato, Wellington, West Coast

1 territory; Chatham Islands

Dependant areas

Cook Islands, Niue and Tokelau

Disputed territories

Ross Dependency, Antarctica

Independence

26th December 1907

Flag

CHOICE!

HANDY MAORI PHRASES Maori Patua pakaru Tumeke Kia ora Haere ra Kei te pai Mauri ora! Kia ora! Kia makana He aha te utu? Kei hea te wharepaku? Ra whanau ki akoe Nau mai Haka Koha Whare kai Mana Iwi Kai Puku Kei te tino matekai au Kia tere Maku e taraiwa? Kua mutu Kei te taera koe? Pai ana ki a koe mehemea ka hoko inu au mau? Marena mai koe ki a au? He aha to nama waea korero? Taku kainga to kaina ranei? He ataahua koe Kei te aroha au i a koe He arai waitatea ou? Me haere atu taua? Kei te paehea koe e hoa? He aha nga mea hou? No hea koe? Kaore taku reo maori i te tino pai Homai he mati e hoa Ka kite apopo A tona wa e hoa Kei te neui te ahua o taku nono i toto i tenei? He aha te taima e hoa?

English Broken down Too good Good morning / evening Good bye I’m fine thanks Cheers / good health Bon appetit How much is this? Where's the toilet? Happy birthday Welcome Chant with dance Gift or present Dining hall Power, pride, authority People, nation, tribe Food Belly, stomach I'm starving Step on it Want me to drive? That’s a wrap Are you feeling horny? Can I buy you a drink? Will you marry me? What's your phone number? My place or yours? You're beautiful I love you Got any condoms? Shall we get out of here? How’s it going mate? What's new? Where are you from? My Maori is not too flash Spark me up bro / give us a light mate See you tomorrow Later man / catch you later Does my bum look big in this? Got the time please? 23

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Grab a FREE NZ Visitor SIM at a Kiwi Experience office. #5 free international landline minutes are only available on first top up and are valid for calls to landlines in countries listed above International rates applicable on NZ Visitor SIM only. Calls rounded up to the nearest minute. For NZ Visitor SIM terms and conditions, visit 2degreesmobile.co.nz/nzvisitorsim.

how to use this guide HOW TO USE THIS GUIDE We have based our travel days in this guide on our ‘Funky Chicken’ pass. If you are starting in Christchurch, we have indicated the days of travel for our ‘Tranz Alpine Dog Leg’ and ‘Kea’ passes. Other add-on passes are described separately. Although the travel days are listed numerically, you do not have to stick to our itinerary - in fact, we strongly recommend that you jump on and off along the way. Our suggested itinerary automatically gives you a free day (two nights) in Taupo, Franz Josef and Queenstown. If you are short on time you may be able to cut these down to one night. Just check our current timetable (available from your Driver Guide or on our website).

COMMENCING YOUR TRAVELS To commence your travel you will need to contact our reservations department via phone or email. Please make sure that you have your PNR number with you - this is sometimes called a booking or confirmation number. We will then arrange an appropriate pick up time and location for you.

HOPPING-ON AND HOPPING-OFF Any time that you hop-off the bus longer than the minimum time (for example, if you are spending a few days at one of our stops), you need to get your ticket from your Driver Guide. You will also need to confirm your next section of travel so contact the office on (09) 336 4286.

WHAT ABOUT OVERNIGHT STOPS? You are not restricted to hopping-off at our overnight stops alone. There are heaps of optional hop-off points throughout each travel day. Ask your Driver Guide for more details. What’s with the green stops on the map? This is where the bus - and you and all your mates will stop for the night. You can’t skip ahead, so if you are short on time, chat to us about how to get the most out

of your time here. Some of our stops are so awesome we suggest two nights here - that’s Taupo, Franz Josef, and Queenstown, and they are shown with a green circle with a white ‘2’ in the middle.

HOW TO BOOK YOUR NEXT ‘SECTOR’ A sector is a section of your trip, eg Auckland to Hot Water Beach, or Wanaka to Queenstown. Your Driver Guide will assist you with your onward travel by circulating ‘Forward Booking Sheets.’ Simply complete these sheets with your appropriate travel dates and we will organise them on your behalf. If you have questions or need more help to work out your travel dates, please call us on (09) 336 4286.

PLANNING YOUR TRIP A Kiwi Experience pass is valid for 12 months from date of purchase. If you have plenty of time, be independent. Make an effort to check out destinations that are off the beaten track. Hop-off and work amongst the locals. Explore some of our overnight hikes. Buy a season pass and head up to the mountain to ski/ board for a few weeks... If you need some help, please don’t hesitate to ask. We’re here to help. Check out page 172-174 for information on when and where your pick-ups will be each day.

CONTACT US www.kiwiexperience.com Email: enquiries@kiwiex.co.nz Phone: (09) 336 4286 or +64 9 336 4286 from outside New Zealand Fax: (09) 366 1374 F: facebook.com/officialkiwiexperiencefanpage T: @kiwiexperience We recommend that you contact us at least 72 hours prior to your first departure. Or to find out more about New Zealand you can go to www.tourismnewzealand.com 25

FAQ’s (frequently asked questions) WHAT’S INCLUDED WHEN I BUY MY KIWI EXPERIENCE PASS?

Your Kiwi Experience pass includes coach transport and the services of your Driver Guide - including commentary and accommodation/ activity bookings. En route we will take you to heaps of destinations that other services miss, giving you access to some of New Zealand’s best kept secrets.

WHAT’S NOT?

Your Kiwi Experience pass does not include accommodation, ferry crossings between the North and South Island, meals or optional activities. However, in most instances, your Driver Guide will be able to assist you in organising these.

WILL THERE BE A SEAT FOR ME?

We recommend booking your place on the bus at least 48 hours prior to departure. You can book your seat at any time however, and the more notice that you give, the better your chances are of having a confirmed seat on our bus. We recommend that you plan ahead during peak season. Everyone wants to travel with Kiwi Experience in summer!

CAN I CHANGE MY DEPARTURE DATES?

Yes, you can! Simply contact us by: Email: enquiries@kiwiex.co.nz Phone: (09) 336 4286

HOW LONG CAN I TRAVEL FOR?

Standard passes are valid for 12 months from first date of travel. You must start your pass within 12 months of purchase. Each sector can only be travelled once. The only exception is our ‘Kea’ and ‘Top Dog’ passes that travel through Christchurch > Kaikoura > Picton twice. If you're travelling on one of our unlimited national travel passes check out the terms and conditions.

WHAT SHOULD I BRING?

You should bring sunglasses, sunscreen (SPF30), insect repellent, water, credit card, walking shoes, swimwear, towel, photo identification and a camera. Make sure you have seasonal clothing as New Zealand weather can be unpredictable. We recommend layers that you can take on and off. If you have large items such as surfboards or mountain bikes, please let us know when you confirm your seat so we can arrange this with your Driver Guide.

Your shout

Your turn to buy a round of drinks

FAQ’s (frequently asked questions) HOW MUCH MONEY DO I NEED?

We recommend allowing NZ$21-NZ$30 per day for backpackers accommodation. For food and beverage allow at least NZ$15-NZ$30. Of course you can spend as much or as little as you like. Activity options are almost endless. We recommend that you do a little independent research with a Lonely Planettype guide book. This will give you an indication of activity and accommodation costs in New Zealand.

DO I NEED TO BOOK ACTIVITIES BEFORE I START MY TRIP?

Your Driver Guide can organise activities as you travel. Booking through Kiwi Experience will get you discounts on most activities.

WHAT SORT OF ACCOMMODATION IS USED?

We generally overnight at backpacker hostels. However, we also stay at a historic West Coast pub, a farm stay with Maori whanau (family) and an adventure lodge in the middle of nowhere. Most rooms are dormitory style. For a few extra dollars, there are twin or double options available.

IS THERE AN AGE LIMIT?

Kiwi Experience recommends a minimum age of 18 years. Travellers under 18 are required to be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. If you’re uncertain, please contact Kiwi Experience reservations.

WHAT IF I’M TRAVELLING ON MY OWN?

Most of our passengers travel solo. Perhaps the best part about being a Kiwi Experience passenger is meeting people from all over the world, as well as a few locals too. Don’t be surprised if those ‘strangers’ become lifelong friends.

WHERE CAN I GET OFF?

You can hop-off the bus anywhere on the route, and contact us when you’re ready to jump back on and see something new. Each overnight stop on the map means you need to spend at least one night there, and in some places we recommend two because they’re that good. Each sector of your pass can be used once. Follow the arrows and the itinerary to see where you are headed next. Please give us your contact number before you hopoff so we can reach you if anything changes.

Up your nose with a rubber hose Said as a firm rejection

1, 2, 3 DAY TRIPS

Bay of Islands Awesome + Top Bit Day 1 Auckland > Paihia Day 2 Paihia > Cape Reinga and Return Day 3 Paihia > Auckland CAPE REINGA PAIHIA (BAY OF ISLANDS)

AUCKLAND

A bit of history... Northland is rich in Maori history and culture. It is also renowned for its clear waters, huge ancient Kauri forests, the Bay of Islands, Cape Reinga and 90 Mile Beach. With so much to see and do, it is easy to understand why this is such a popular destination. The Bay of Islands is one New Zealand’s favourite holiday locations. During early European settlement, Europeans established a roaring sealing and whaling trade in the South Pacific and the Bay of Islands was a popular port. Sailors frequently let their inhibitions down when they arrived in the Bay. Not surprisingly, the only thing that outnumbered the numerous taverns in the area was the number of brothels. To learn more about early New Zealand history, visit the Waitangi Treaty House & Grounds. This is a beautiful 30 minute walk along Paihia Beach.

highlights Awesome selection of water and land based adventure activities: • An abundance of nature walks • The legendary Cape Reinga via 90 Mile Beach day trip to the far North • Maori history and culture • Chilling out on the beach • Kiwi BBQ and a night out at the local Pipi Patch bar!

optional hop-offs • Warkworth • Whangarei

For the best deals in the Bay of Islands, talk to your Driver Guide or the crew at Awesome NZ Rattle your dags

Hurry up - Rattle your dags and get on the bus

Bay of Islands Awesome + Top Bit Leg 1: Auckland > Paihia We depart Auckland early to get to the Bay of Islands around lunchtime, so that you can maximise your stay in the Bay. We head over the Auckland Harbour Bridge with a view over the Waitemata Harbour and north to Warkworth, where we stop for morning tea. Back on the chariot, we have a short bathroom stop at Whangarei before arriving in Paihia around midday. If you get off in Whangarei, look into the diving options. Jacques Cousteau identified the nearby Poor Knights Islands as one of the top 10 dive sites in the world. The islands are located just 23 kilometres off the coast. The volcanic islands provide spectacular drop-offs, walls, caves, arches and tunnels. The area is inhabited by an array of diverse underwater life including over 125 species of fish, soft

corals, encrusting sponges, vibrant anemones, Ecklonia kelp forests, mating sting rays, triplefins, blennies and various other life forms. A dive at the Poor Knights Islands, one of New Zealandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s premier marine reserves, is a once in a lifetime experience.

Bay of Islands Awesome + Top Bit Your Driver Guide will organise your activity and accommodation bookings in the short one hour drive between Whangarei and Paihia. Once in Paihia you will stop in at the Awesome NZ Centre to reconfirm any activities you may wish to do during your stay. The Awesome crew will provide free and friendly advice on the best local spots and walking tracks in the area.

Leg 2: Paihia > Cape Reinga Day Trip The Cape Reinga day trip is full on so we start early. We use a white bus on this leg as opposed to a green one. Make sure that you note the difference so you don’t get left behind! The bus is designed especially for sand conditions to ensure that you get a day packed full of adventure and entertainment.

The Cape trip is a ‘must do’ if you have the time. The day is packed full of nature walks and included activities at no extra cost. Take your bathers, warm clothes and a towel. Prepare yourself for an unforgettable day out. The far north is very sacred and spiritual to Maori. If you have the time to hop-off, you will gain a real insight into New Zealand culture. Book your accommodation in Paihia prior to departure if you do choose to hop-off here. Our first stop is at the Puketi Kauri Forest. Some of the Kauri at Puketi are nearly 1000 years old. Kauri trees were once used for boat building before some clever guy invented aluminium - he must have liked forests. We have a morning tea break at Taipa where you can get your caffeine fix and also

Bay of Islands Awesome + Top Bit grab some breakfast and/or lunch from the bakery before we continue up to Cape Reinga. Check out the famous light house at the tip of New Zealand and look out to the point where the Pacific meets the Tasman Sea. Maori people believe that their spirit transcends the land and passes through to the other world here, through a tapu (sacred) Pohutukawa tree growing from the cliff. We stop at the isolated Tapotupotu Bay for lunch. Weather dependent, you may be able to boogie board in the Pacific, play a bit of touch (rugby) or lay back and chill in the sun. From Tapotupotu we head west to Te Paki stream. At the end of the stream are some of New Zealand’s largest sand dunes. Your Driver Guide will stop here so that you can scale the dunes and have a crack at a bit of sandboarding. Make sure you’ve packed a towel, ‘cos if you get all the way down you’ll skim through the stream and get wet while doing it!

Stiff kumara

Hard luck, mate!

Bay of Islands Awesome + Top Bit From here we continue out onto 90 Mile Beach, driving along the sand and in the surf. The area is very isolated with plenty of superb photo opportunities. If the tides are right you can join your driver in collecting some shellfish from the beach. We’ll have a quick afternoon tea stop at the Ancient Kauri Kingdom before heading south to Mangonui, home of one of the best shops for the great New Zealand favourite, fish & chips. This is one of the few extra costs, and is great value at about eight bucks. If you’re keen to surf, why not try at one of New Zealand’s most pristine beaches, Taupo Bay, boasting awesome clean surf against a

backdrop of rugged cliffs. You can learn to surf and stay in lodges just two minutes walk from the beach. When you’ve had enough, join the bus where you left it and continue your trip. We’ll get back into Paihia early evening, where you can sit back and reflect on the day’s adventures.

Leg 2/3: Paihia > AUCKLAND You have all day to do as you please in Paihia before we depart at around 3:00pm. It’s a fairly laid back four hour journey back to Auckland. You may want to jump off along the way in Whangarei to go diving and arrange a pick up a few days later. We aim to drop you at your chosen hostel before 7:30pm. Use this time to ask your Driver Guide any questions you have about your forthcoming southbound trip. There’s a good chance that you’ll meet a few fellow travellers who are going south with you. Get together and have a chat to those who are completing their Kiwi Experience for useful advice. Your Driver Guide will tell you everything you need to know if you’re continuing with us south from Auckland.

hill out on the beach C Hire a bike Relax at the Pipi Patch bar Visit Waitangi Treaty House & grounds Take the ferry to historic Russell (free when you purchase a Fullers activity) Sandboarding

Waka Taua - the Maori war canoe Maori war canoes are among the most impressive watercraft ever built. Traditionally built from a single kauri or totara tree, the canoe reached more than 25m(80ft) in length and took two years or more to complete. Early European explorers reported seeing fleets of up to 50 waka travelling together. The site of such a fleet fully laden with warriors would have been a terrifying sight!

Give it heaps

Give (something) a supreme effort

• See what Kiwi Experience is all about firsthand • Learn about New Zealand’s unique history and Maori culture • Be entertained and get travel tips from our awesome Driver Guides • Head north over Auckland’s Harbour Bridge and - Check out some of Auckland’s great beaches - Explore a historic peninsula and its hidden war tunnels - Soak up spectacular 360° views from Mt Victoria - Munch on Kiwi fish ‘n’ chips on the beach (optional) • Take a FREE walk on the iconic Auckland Harbour Bridge - you must have CLOSED TOE shoes • Take an optional bungy jump with the guys who invented it - AJ Hackett Bungy • Check out culture rich Devonport village Price: Nil, zero, nada, nothing - it’s free! To book: Talk to your hostels travel desk Timetable: Departs from the following locations*: Kiwi Experience 9:50am > Nomads Fusion 10:20am ACB 10:10am > YHA Turner St 10:00am Returns to Kiwi Experience approx 2-2:30pm and then back to inner city hostels shortly after. *Departs 5 days a week (Monday-Friday) but subject to cancellation. In case of wet weather, the trip may be altered or postponed. Please contact your hostel reception for an alternative option. Ask Kiwi Experience on (09) 336 4286, your travel desk or hostel for more information. Routes and timetables are subject to change.

www.kiwiexperience.com Book with your local travel agent or call Kiwi Experience (09) 336 4286 37

Auckland city map

Kiwi Experience OFFICE WHANAU (FAMILY)

AUCKLAND > HOT WATER BEACH Our first stop is the Kiwi Experience office for final pick-ups and any last minute info that you may need. If you are short on time, the reservations crew will be able to book all your onward coaches/sectors so that you’ll get where you want to go on the dates that you want to get there. Remember to book at least two or three days in advance during summer as it can be busy.

Funky Chicken TRAVEL Day ONE AUCKLAND > HOT WATER BEACH

CATHEDRAL COVE HAHEI

AUCKLAND

HOT WATER BEACH

THAMES

TAIRUA

We head for a scenic convenience stop by the Wintergardens in the Auckland Domain before hitting the motorway to head south to the Coromandel. After a couple of hours of great scenery and getting to know your fellow travellers on the bus, we arrive at Tairua on the Coromandel Peninsula for a brief stop for lunch and supplies.

highlights • Picturesque settlement of Tairua for lunch • An abundance of native New Zealand forest as you head over the Kopu Ranges • Guided coastal sea kayaking including cappuccinos on the beach • Cathedral Cove coastal walk • Chilling out and/or swimming • Relaxing in your very own natural hot pool at Hot Water Beach (provided it is low tide) • Glass bottom boat tour of the marine reserve

optional hop-offs

The mountain that dominates the picturesque town of Tairua is Mount Paku. This was once the site of a Maori Pa (fortified village). The Coromandel Peninsula is renowned for its secluded beaches and untouched native forest. If you have plenty of time and are keen

• Tairua

$20 off Cathedral Cove Kayaks NB: Discount correct at time of print

Up the boohai

To be lost or in trouble

AUCKLAND > HOT WATER BEACH to check out some walking tracks you may wish to head to the Pinnacles Hut for a two day trek. For more information, check out the Department of Conservation website at www.doc.govt.nz.

CATHEDRAL COVE Cathedral Cove is a spectacular coastal walk. Within 45 minutes you’ll find yourself surrounded by white sand, crystal clear water and the magnificent archway, Cathedral Cove. Take your swimwear and walking shoes. It’s a beautiful place for a dip before you head back on to the bus.

HAHEI BEACH Hahei Beach is the start point of the Hahei Marine Reserve. It is an excellent beach, perfect for swimming, snorkelling, sea kayaking and dolphin spotting.

CATHEDRAL COVE KAYAKS From Hahei you have the opportunity to explore the coast with Mike from Cathedral Cove Kayaks. This stretch of coastline is incredible. Exploring it by sea kayak will get you to amazing places not accessible by road. Explore offshore islands, snorkel in the Marine Reserve (summer only), paddle deep inside sea caves or simply enjoy one of their world famous cappuccinos!

HOT WATER BEACH Hot Water Beach is rated as one of the world’s top 10 beaches by Lonely Planet, and you’ll find it lives up to its name when you grab a shovel at low tide and dig your own hot water pool in the sand. It can be pretty hot, so be sure to mix it with some cold sea water. A magical spot!

Have you seen some cool photos while looking at the Exposed 2012 guide and marketing for Kiwi Experience? These photos have been taken by Felicity Witters (aka Flea). She specialises in portrait photography, especially in the outdoors. She has been with Kiwi Experience for ten years, working both in sales and marketing and as a Driver Guide. Over the past five years she has taken a keen interest in photography. Whilst travelling throughout New Zealand working as a Kiwi Experience Driver Guide, she takes photos of passengers getting amongst it and having lots of fun.

AUCKLAND > HOT WATER BEACH Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll finish your day chilling out on the sprawling deck of the brand new, purpose built, self-contained backpacker lodges at Hot Water Beach Holiday Park, just a couple of minutes walk from the beach. And why not treat yourself to real kiwi fish and chips for dinner from the caravan at the Holiday Park, or throw something on the BBQ, and watch the sun set over the hills. All stops today are dependent on weather, time and tide. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a good idea to have your day pack ready every morning with your beach gear, camera, sunscreen, food and water.

urfing Lessons S Digging your own hot pool at low tide

Hot water beach > WAITOMO We depart Hot Water Beach early and travel over the Kopu Ranges where we stop at the Karangahake Scenic Reserve to explore the stunning bush-clad gorge. Your Driver Guide will direct you on a walk that follows the river, crosses over two swing bridges and goes through a one kilometre long railway tunnel. If you have a torch, bring it with you. You will need it for the tunnel section of the walk.

Funky Chicken TRAVEL Day TWO HOT WATER BEACH > WAITOMO HAURAKI GULF

HOT WATER BEACH

WAIHI- KARANGAHAKE SCENIC RESERVE PAEROA TE AROHA MORRINSVILLE

We jump back on the bus and head to Paeroa. Paeroa calls itself “World famous in New Zealand”. This is because of the unique Lemon and Paeroa spring water soft drink that was originally made here - L&P. As we leave Paeroa we pass by Mount Te Aroha (Aro-ha), the mountain of love.

OTOROHANGA waitomo

highlights • Karangahake Scenic Reserve and tunnel walks • Legendary Black Water Rafting • Waitomo Glowworm Caves • Ruakuri Cave • Aranui Cave

optional hop-offs • Paeroa • Morrinsville

$35 off Black Abyss $24 off Black Labyrinth $12 off Ruakuri Cave $9 off Waitomo Glowworm Caves NB: Discount correct at time of print

Hit the sack Go to bed

Hot water beach > WAITOMO We drive on through the mighty Waikato and King Country regions to Waitomo (wai meaning water, tomo meaning cave). The local caves are made out of limestone and hidden beneath the countryside.

The legend of Hinemoa & Tutanekai Hinemoa lived on the eastern shores of Lake Rotorua. She was the daughter of a local chief and considered so beautiful that she was declared tapu (sacred). On Mokoia Island in the centre of the lake lived a family of bro’s. The older brothers all tried to hook up with Hinemoa, but she was like “nah”. Tutanekai, the youngest brother and of another father, was low class and didn’t stand a chance with Hinemoa. However, he was good at local games and Hinemoa thought he was a bit of alright.

Apart from glowworms you may see stalactites, stalagmites, cave coral, fossilised oysters, and whalebones. There are plenty of adventure options for exploring the caves. The famous New Zealand glowworms are everywhere and can be seen on most of the abseiling, caving or tubing trips available.

Tutanekai, lovestruck, moped on the shores of the Island playing his flute in the evening for Hinemoa. Hinemoa heard it and gushed. One night she snuck away, stole some gourds creating makeshift floats and jumped into the lake and swam to the Island. Once there, she slipped into a hotpool. Naked, she was too embarrassed to find Tutanekai. She hid. A slave came to get water for Tutanekai from the pool. She scared him off a couple of times peeving Tutanekai. He went to get the water himself and found Hinemoa... and they hooked up. In the morning, Tutanekai’s bro’s were worried. Tutanekai was normally first up. They went to his whare (house) to see what was up... then they saw him with Hinemoa. They were scared and saw waka (canoes) coming from the shores and were anticipating war. Much to their surprise, Hinemoa’s tribe offered lasting peace between the two groups and Tutanekai and Hinemoa lived happily ever after.

Glowworms - Why and how they glow A glowworm uses its glow to attract food and to burn off its waste. Its tail glows because of bioluminescence. This is a reaction between the chemicals given off by the glowworm and the oxygen in the air. This chemical reaction produces light, which the glowworm can control by reducing the oxygen to the light organ. Insects fly towards the light and get stuck in the sticky lines that the glowworm hangs down to catch food. When the female glowworm reaches the adult stage the light is used to attract males. Glowworms also use their glow to put other creatures off eating them. The glowworms we have in New Zealand are called Arachnocampa luminosa.

AWWH! Full of puha

Talking nonsense

Hot water beach > WAITOMO Glowworms catch their prey by hanging web-like spindles from the cave roof. The worm glows brightly to attract the attention of anything flying around in caves. As the unsuspecting prey flies toward the light they are tangled up in the thread and hastily eaten. After the larval stage, life gets grim for the glowworm. Glowworms turn into flies that haven’t evolved a mouth. Without a mouth they cannot feed and die within a day. Therefore their sole purpose during this stage is to reproduce - what a life! Once we arrive in Waitomo, we check in at the Legendary Black Water Rafting Company headquarters to get you signed up for your Waitomo activities. The caving adventures in Waitomo are rated by our passengers as one of their favourite activities in New Zealand. Make the most of your stay in this unique place and go underground to explore some of the vast series of limestone caves. For the more adventurous we highly recommend the four to five hour Black Abyss tour. This is the ultimate caving experience that features abseiling a breathtaking 35

metre tomo, tubing, flying fox, waterfall jumps and climbs. Your Driver Guide will give you the full run down on everything there is to see and do. If you’d rather do something more tame, try one of the great combos offered in Waitomo. The most popular includes the world famous Waitomo Glowworm Caves and the Ruakuri Cave. The Waitomo Glowworm Caves includes a boat journey under thousands of sparkling glowworms and stunning cave stalactites and stalagmites. While you are there don’t forget to check out the amazing new Visitor Centre with its innovative weaved roof design based on a hinake, a Maori eel catcher that was used in this area. The Ruakuri Cave is an engineering jewel. Enter the cave and walk through the amazing spiral entrance before going through breathtaking caverns, narrow corridors, crystal tapestries and glowworms to the tune of distant subterranean waterfalls. An incredible package with a reasonable price. Alternatively, there are a number of great bush walking trails if you are on a tight budget and want to go exploring on foot. Depending on your Driver Guide, there may be a group BBQ organised at either the hostel or the pub. This is a very relaxed evening in a remote setting and an excellent opportunity to get to know your fellow travellers or meet some of the locals.

Ruakuri Reserve loop walk 2½ hour return walk from Waitomo village to Ruakuri Waitomo Discovery Centre Waitomo Glowworm Caves Visitor Centre

Fart sack

A polite term for a sleeping bag or bed

If you are lookIng for a real kIwI adventure, thIs Is It! The Legendary Black Water Rafting Co. is New Zealandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s first and world renowned black water rafting adventure operator. Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve been sharing thrills and excitement for over 24 years and have experienced guides who will take you safely through the stunning underground world of Ruakuri Cave. Become part of the legend with an unforgettable journey through ancient caves with rivers and waterfalls, rock formations and breathtaking glowworms.

BOOK NOW what Is black water raftIng? Black water rafting is one of New Zealandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s famous inventions in action sports and is done underground. Basically it involves wearing a wetsuit and caving helmet (complete with head lamp) and sitting on a large rubber inner tube. Once kitted up, an expert guide will take you on an awesome expedition through this subterranean world.

the black abyss Black Abyss is the ultimate adrenalin pumping caving experience for the more adventurous. This five hour experience, includes abseiling a breathtaking 35 metre limestone tomo, whizzing down a flying fox, tubing under glowworms and climbing subterranean waterfalls. Tumbling along rocky chutes and sliding through vaulted limestone galleries, rafters finally emerge into the green of the Waitomo forest, having experienced an unforgettable journey. Qualified guides support you throughout your experience as you explore this amazing underground world.

the black labyrInth Black Labyrinth is Waitomoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s original black water rafting tour that brought the company international recognition. Allow three hours for this adventure that involves a combination of walking and floating on an inner tube, though caverns lit up by thousands of glowworms.

Book now on 0800 228 464 or visit www.waitomo.com 53

Book NoW

Experience the world famous Waitomo Glowworm Caves

Be amazed by thousands of glowworms sparkling above, as you glide silently through the magical Waitomo Glowworm Caves by boat. Enjoy the ornate cave decorations and sculptures that have developed over thousands of years. Combine Ruakuri Cave for a cave experience like no other. The crystal tapestries, incredible spiral drum entrance and glowworms up close will amaze you. Enjoy a delicious lunch in the award winning Waitomo Glowworm Caves Visitor Centre.

Book now on 0800 456 922 or visit www.waitomo.com for more information

HOT WATER BEACH > WAITOMO

History of Ruakuri Cave Ruakuri has the most turbulent history of all the caves. It was first discovered as a ‘den of dogs’ over 400 years ago and became a highly popular attraction. Then, in the late 1980s, it was closed due to a drawn out land dispute and then re-opened in mid 2005 following a $4m redevelopment undertaken by thl. The ‘Den of Dogs’ According to Maori legend, Ruakuri Cave was first discovered 400-500 years ago by a young Maori hunter spearing birds for food. A pack of wild dogs inhabited the entranceway and the cave was subsequently named Ruakuri (rua meaning den and kuri meaning dogs). Later, the cave entrance was used by Maori as a burial ground (wahi tapu) and it is this sacred area that has now been protected with the construction of the spiral entrance a safe distance away.

To suck the kumara To fail or lose out

WAITOMO > ROTORUA Before departing Waitomo this morning, we head off for a half hour bush walk in the Ruakuri Reserve. This walk is well worth the effort. It’s a great introduction to the abundance of limestone rock formations, caves, native forest and river systems in the area.

Funky Chicken TRAVEL Day THREE WAITOMO > ROTORUA

OTOROHANGA

ROTORUA

WAITOMO

The journey then takes us to the unusual town of Rotorua, where you will see steam coming from under the streets through storm water drains, boiling mud pools and geysers galore!

highlights • Zorb • Agrodome Sheep Show • Agroventures activities • Luging • Tamaki Tours Hangi and Concert • White water rafting / sledging the 7m falls on the Kaituna River

$6 off Skyline Skyrides Gondola and three luge rides $17 off Tamaki Tours Hangi and Concert $13 off Kaitiaki Rafting $20 off Kaitiaki Sledging NB: Discount correct at time of print

Like a stunned mullet

Dazed - Wandering around like a stunned mullet

WAITOMO > ROTORUA Rotorua is also known as Sulphur City, Rotovegas and Rotten-rua. We feel that the Maori name for the Rotorua Government Gardens is more fitting - Whangapipiro (Fong-a-pe-pero), meaning an evil-smelling place. The sulphur dioxide gas created by the geothermal activity causes the town to have a very distinctive smell. Hot springs occur when water, beginning as rainfall, seeps through the earthâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s crust and is heated by contact with hot rocks. A geyser erupts when an underground pond of water is

Matariki (Maori New Year) - 21 June 2012 Matariki is marked by the rise of the Pleiades (or The Seven Sisters) star cluster and the sighting of the next new moon. This normally occurs in late May and June. Traditionally, depending on the visibility of Matariki, the coming seasonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s crop was thought to be determined. The brighter the stars indicated the warmer the season would be and thus a more productive crop. It was also seen as an important time for family to gather and reflect on the past and the future. Today Matariki means celebrating the unique place in which we live and giving respect to the land we live on. Celebrations vary from iwi (tribe) to iwi. There have previously been discussions whether the day should become a bank holiday. Nothing has been confirmed to date.

WAITOMO > ROTORUA heated to boiling point and flashes into steam, violently expelling the water held above the flashing point. Just a word of caution; should you bathe in any of the natural thermal pools, do not put your head under the water. There is a risk of contracting amoebic meningitis. The organism that causes it is a rare parasite, but infection can result in serious illness. We stop at Tamaki Tours where you can book a spot for tonightâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Maori cultural hangi (traditional Maori meal) and concert. This activity has been rated by our passengers as one of the best value for money activities on the circuit and is a great way to learn about the Maori people and their traditions.

Mount Tarawera and the famous Pink and White Terraces One of the most significant natural disasters in modern New Zealand history occurred on 10th June 1886. Mount Tarawera, near Rotorua, had been home to the world famous Pink and White (silicon) Terraces with thermal pools. The location had been world famous and was the cornerstone of the New Zealand tourism industry at that time. On this day the mountain erupted, obliterating the terraces. The noise of the eruption was heard as far south as Blenheim in the South Island and earthquakes were felt throughout the North Island. The eruption killed between 108-120 people and buried several villages in ash, scoria and other debris. Today the mountain is dormant. A large tear slices the mountain caused by the eruption. The event created the Waimangu Geyser - the largest geyser in the world.

A dag

An amusing character

WAITOMO > ROTORUA

WAITOMO > ROTORUA Then we can take you along to the Agrodome to check out a good ol’ kiwi farmshow, and Agroventures where you’ll get the opportunity to try out the Swoop, Agrojet, Freefall Xtreme or the Shweeb. Or why not try ‘zorbing’ – a crazy kiwi invention where you get pushed off a hill inside a large beach ball. Another popular activity option this afternoon is ‘luging’, where you drive your own cart, racing each other down five kilometres of winding tracks and trails.

ire a mountain bike and head up to the H Redwood Forest Relax in a natural hot spring o for a wander around the lake front G and talk to the ducks Walk through Kuirau Thermal Park

Or if you’d rather spend the rest of the afternoon relaxing, you can chill out and soak in the hot pool at Hot Rocks hostel. If you choose to stay longer in Rotorua you may wish to go rafting on the Kaituna River situated 25 minutes outside of Rotorua. The legendary crew at Kaitiaki will put on an awesome rafting trip whilst giving you a unique insight into local Maori customs. Trips usually depart twice daily and you can be picked up from your hostel. Ask your Driver Guide for more details. If you book a concert and meal with Tamaki Tours you will be collected from your hostel early evening. They will take you to their village which is a re-creation of a traditional village from the 1600’s, originally located 20 kilometres north of town. You will see a Maori challenge (which determines if you come as friend or foe), experience waiata (wai-ata - songs), Poi dance, weaponry displays and the haka. Then feast on a buffet of traditionally prepared hangi (a meal steamed in the ground on hot rocks). The kai (food) is exceptional!

The 'Ka Mate' version of the haka: This version was composed by Te Rauparaha, war leader of the Ngati Toa tribe of the North Island of New Zealand. Ka mate! Ka mate! Ka ora! Ka ora! Ka mate! Ka mate! Ka ora! Ka ora! Tenei te tangata puhuru huru Nana nei i tiki mai Whakawhiti te ra A upa... ne! ka upa... ne! A upane kaupane whiti te ra! I die! I die! I live! I live! I die! I die! I live! I live! This is the hairy man Who fetched the sun And caused it to shine again One upward step! Another upward step! An upward step, another... the sun shines!

Dress warm. The first part of the evening is outdoors and can be brisk in winter months. You are welcome to take photos so bring your cameras along. Toss the tiger

To throw up the day after the night before.

KIWI LINGO

ROTORUA > TAUPO Funky Chicken TRAVEL Day FOUR & FIVE ROTORUA > TAUPO

We depart Rotorua at around 11am and head towards Tongariro National Park and Taupo - the adventure capital of the north. You may be lucky enough to take in the sublime view of the Tongariro National Park in the distance. The cone shaped mountain Ngauruhoe (Na-ru-hoe-e) was used in the filming of ‘Lord of the Rings’. You may recognise it as Mount Doom.

ROTORUA

TAUPO LAKE TAUPO

highlights • Te Puia georthermal reserve • Huka Falls • Lake Taupo • Freefall skydive • Nightlife!

In the morning we head to Te Puia, which is New Zealand’s most well known thermal park complete with; geysers, boiling mud, a Maori Arts and Crafts Centre and a kiwi bird house.

If you are keen for a short walk we will check out the famous Huka Falls before we arrive in Taupo. The Huka (foam) Falls are situated on the Waikato River, two kilometres north of Lake Taupo. The falls are 11 metres (35 feet) high. What appears to have been a blasted out channel is completely natural and actually formed by an earthquake. If we don’t make it, we strongly recommend that you check them out on your day off. Simply stroll through Spa Park and along the Waikato River. It’s about a two hour return trip.

LAKE TAUPO At 616 square kilometres, Taupo is the largest lake in Australasia and is big enough to fit the island of Singapore in it! Scientists state that the lake was the scene of one of the world’s largest known volcanic explosions around 186 AD. Ancient Chinese and Roman records tell of dark red skies that brought climatic changes to the area, likely to be caused from the Taupo eruption.

$5 off Taupo Bungy NB: Discount correct at time of print

To be away laughing

To be successful or well on the way to success

ROTORUA > TAUPO Today Lake Taupo is well known for trout fishing. Trout were introduced to the area in the 1860s when brown trout eggs were brought from Tasmania. If you would like to try your hand at trout fishing then get yourself a permit and gear or go out with one of the many fishing guides in town.

TAUPO Taupo was first settled by Europeans in 1869 when an armed constabulary post was established during the Maori Land Wars. The full name is ‘Taupo-nui-a-Tia’ meaning great cloak of Tia. It was named after Chief Tia who laid his cloak on the ground, thus forming the lake. Apart from the natural geothermal features of the area, Taupo is fast becoming known as the adventure capital of the north. With a wide range of activities, it’s no wonder we stop here for two nights.

One of the most popular activities in Taupo is skydiving. Taupo is the cheapest spot in New Zealand to skydive, and also one of the best. With views of the Tongariro National Park and the lake, it’s spectacular. If the weather on arrival into Taupo is looking good you will have the opportunity to do your skydive in the afternoon or evening.

Horo-matangi - A taniwha in Lake Taupo This is a fierce taniwha who lives in an underwater cave by Motutaiko, an island in Lake Taupo. Two stone dogs up on the Karangahape cliffs on the lake’s shore were associated with the taniwha. These dogs were never seen but are said to be heard howling on misty mornings.

ROTORUA > TAUPO For your evening entertainment you will find that there are some great restaurants and bars around town to finish your day off. We’ll point these out on the way into Taupo.

There are summer options that include the walk, followed by an evening skydive on the way home.

Free Day in Taupo

Taupo has plenty of activities to choose from. Ask your Driver Guide on the way into town for more information.

Highlights • Tongariro Alpine Crossing • Skydiving • Taupo Bungy • Rock ‘n’ Ropes • Skiing and snowboarding (seasonal) For those who want a physical challenge, spend your day off doing the Tongariro Alpine Crossing with Tongariro Expeditions. It’s well worth the early rise to see the stunning scenery and volcanic activity. It is rated as one of the world’s top 10 one day walks.

leep in S Huka Falls walk Soak in the natural hot spring (Spa Park at the beginning of the Huka Falls walk way) Go for a wander around the lake Climb Mt. Tauhara and check out the Craters of the Moon (1½ - 2 hours to the summit) Hire a mountain bike

tongariro alpine crossing

EAST AS - add-on pass 4 day trip on the east cape of NZ Day 1 Taupo/Rotorua > Gisborne Day 2 Gisborne > Rangitukia Day 3 Rangitukia, East Cape > Te Kaha Day 4 Te Kaha > Rotorua/Taupo

Nau mai haere mai ki te tairawhiti. Welcome to the East Coast. THE CHILLED OUT place to be!

TAUPO/ROTORUA TO GISBORNE Following our pick ups in Taupo and Rotorua we head north along the Bay of Plenty coast. We pass through Opotiki and the Waioeka Gorge to Gisborne (the first city in the world to see the sun). From Gisborne we start heading up State Highway 35 to our first nights accommodation at Tatapouri. Tatapouri is famous for its wild sting-ray feeding, shark cage diving, surfing and rock sliding, so if you like to get amongst it there are plenty of activities for you to sink your teeth into.

GISBORNE TO RANGITUKIA

highlights

• Whangara marae visit (scene of the movie ‘Whale Rider’ - included in your pass) • Maori culture • Spectacular coastal scenery • Small rural communities with hospitality at its best • Thermal hot pools • Horse trekking (optional activity - East Cape) • Surfing in Gisborne (optional activity) • Stingray feeding (optional activity - Tatapouri) • Sunsets from a hot tub

optional hop-offs • Whakatane • Tokomaru Bay • Tolaga Bay

Chur me ol’ woo

Ask Paul at Te Kaha Homestay for translation...

EAST AS - add-on pass

Facts about Gisborne Due to its close proximity to the International Date Line, this is the most easterly city in the world and the first to see the sun rise. The Gisborne region has been settled by Maori for over a 1000 years. Captain James Cook made his first New Zealand landfall at Kaiti Beach in 1769. It’s the surfing capital of New Zealand, you can surf anything here in Gisborne. Produces some of New Zealand’s finest wines. Regions first whaling station was set up in 1839. In 1860 numerous battles with the Maori broke out, resulting in the Government crushing the opposition and transporting them to the remote Chatham Islands, including the famous Maori rebel, Te Kooti. The famous opera singer Dame Kiri Te Kanawa comes from Gisborne.

White Island White Island is New Zealand’s most active volcano. 50 kilometres off the coast of Whakatane, it’s a small island of 324 hectares, formed by three separate volcanic cones, all different ages. Erosion has worn away most of the surface of the two older cones. The youngest now occupies most of the centre of the island. Hot vents cover most of the crater floor and temperatures of 600-800 degrees Celsius have been recorded. The highest point on the island is Mount Gisborne at 321 metres. Geographically, White Island is related to Whale Island (closer to Whakatane) and Mount Edgecumbe (Putauaki). All lie along the same volcanic trench. The island is privately owned and the only way you can visit it is with a full day guided tour by boat, which your Driver Guide can arrange.

EAST AS - add-on pass GISBORNE TO RANGITUKIA From Tatapouri we carry on to the settlement of Whangara where we have a special treat for you. Legend has it that Paikea travelled to Aotearoa on the back of a whale after his brother tried to drown him by sinking their canoe, and came to rest in Whangara. It is also the film location for the critically acclaimed movie ‘Whale Rider’. We have exclusive access to visit the local marae. You are welcomed onto these two impressive and very different meeting houses by local Maori. Each structure has a fascinating story to tell. The all-empowering statue of Paikea above the Marae seems to follow you all day. From there we head on up to Tologa Bay and the southern hemispheres longest wharf, Tokomaru Bay for some spectacular coastal scenery and then onto Rangitukia for our second nights stop. Once there you can hang out in the ‘night club’ (an old wool shed with ping pong tables, a fridge, a radio and an old pool table). If you’re feeling adventurous, take a horse trek with Reg and Jack through truly spectacular farmland.

Gallop along the beach, ride up into the hills and take in breathtaking views of the coastline and Mount Hikurangi. If you fancy being creative then we will introduce you to Tom and Kizzy. These crazy cats will help you create your very own bone carving with step by step instructions and a helping hand if need be.

The legend of Paikea - The Whale Rider According to legend, Paikea came to New Zealand from the Pacific Islands on the back of a whale many centuries ago. His descendants include the Kati Kuri people of Kaikoura. Paikea was the youngest and favourite son of the chief Uenuku from the island of Mangaia in the present day Cook Islands. This favouritism made Paikea’s elder brothers extremely jealous. They conspired to kill Paikea while fishing offshore and tell Uenuku he drowned. But the night before the trip Paikea feigned sleep and overheard his brothers plotting. When far out to sea Paikea foiled their plan by deliberately sinking the canoe and drowning his brothers. Now adrift in a great ocean, Paikea clung to a canoe plank and awaited his own death. It was then that Tohora the whale appeared and lifted Paikea onto his great back. Tohora took Paikea south to New Zealand and the settlement of Whangara just north of present day Gisborne. Here, Paikea began a new and prosperous life. Many years later one of Paikea’s sons, Tahupotiki, travelled further south and became the founder of the great South Island tribe of Ngai Tahu. It is from Tahupotiki and Paikea that the Ngai Tahu and Kati Kuri of Kaikoura claim descent. 75

EAST AS - add-on pass RANGITUKIA TO TE KAHA

TE KAHA TO rotorua/TAUPO

Be among the first in the world to see the light of a new day. Take a 15 minute walk up the nearby hills to Sunrise Point or do it on horse back with Reg.

Leaving Te Kaha is always hard so we delay it for a few hours but eventually we head off towards Whakatane. If you have time we recommend jumping off the bus for a few days to experience dolphin swimming, visit the smouldering active White Island volcano, or just hang out at this beautiful seaside town. If you can surf, you can possibly even get in a little more practice here.

After breakfast we check out a beautifully carved church in Tikitiki and then head over to Te Araroa and Te Waha O Rere Kohu (the world’s oldest Pohutukawa). Then weather permitting, out to the East Cape Lighthouse for 765 steps to New Zealand’s most easterly point. From here it’s a gentle drive to Te Kaha for our third night. We stay at the Homestead Lodge with the O’Brien whanau who provide us with excellent local hospitality. The homestead is situated on the beach in an amazing spot. Once you have put your bags away and been welcomed into Te Whanau a Apanui (the local tribe) you can soak in the atmosphere that keeps us coming back. The hot tub has always been a favourite for weary travellers. Situated on the coast, it is the perfect location to watch the sunset. Don’t get out too soon. The stars put on a great show in the night sky at Te Kaha. Once you have turned into a prune, head back up to the homestead for dinner and a few drinks - perhaps sing a few songs with our host Chay.

From here it’s back to Rotorua and Taupo where the East As crew say farewell as you continue on your travels around this beautiful country of ours.

Facts about Te Kaha sed to be a whaling station and as U the whale numbers decreased, farming activities became the chief source of income. T e Kaha’s climate produces some of New Zealand’s finest kiwifruit, in particular the golden kiwifruit. reat hunting area, in particular deer G and wild pigs. Popular for boating and fishing. top tourist destination for camping A and holidaying in summer. T e Kaha (meaning to stand firm) owes its name to the many sieges by invading tribes that it withstood. illie Apiata who was awarded the W Victorian Cross in 2007 (the highest medal in the Commonwealth) is from Te Kaha. The official ceremony took place in the Tukaki meeting house. He is the second person from Te Kaha to be decorated with a VC - amazing for a small town.

EAST AS - add-on pass

TAUPO > RIVER VALLEY We drive around the eastern shores of Lake Taupo and into Turangi (Two-Rangi), the trout fishing capital of New Zealand, to get lunch supplies.

Funky Chicken TRAVEL Day SIX TAUPO > RIVER VALLEY TAUPO LAKE TAUPO

TURANGI TONGARIRO NATIONAL PARK OHAKUNE WAIOURU

RIVER VALLEY

We then head into Tongariro for one of our many walks. Tongariro National Park is New Zealand’s oldest National Park, one of New Zealand’s three World Heritage areas and the fourth one created in the world! Due to the alpine nature of the walk, it is dependent on weather conditions. These walks offer a unique opportunity to explore native bush and waterfalls in this volcanic region. Look out for familiar scenery; you may recognise places from the ‘Lord of the Rings’ trilogy. A lot of the filming took place in the National Park.

highlights • Tongariro National Park and three mighty volcanoes • ‘Lord of the Rings’ scenery • Taranaki Falls (2 hour loop walk) • Whakapapa Village • Tawhai Falls • Chilled atmosphere at the remotely located River Valley Adventure Lodge

optional hop-offs • Turangi • Whakapapa • National Park • Ohakune (the carrot capital of New Zealand)

Wop wops

Our lodge is in the wop wops - a remote area

TAUPO > RIVER VALLEY Walks may include the Taranaki (Tara-naki) Falls and Silica Rapids or the Tawhai Falls walk. The Maori chief Te Heuheu Tukino gifted the nucleus of Tongariro National Park to the people of New Zealand in 1867. The park is dominated by three large volcanoes; Ruapehu (Roo-a-pay-hu), Ngauruhoe (Na-roo-ho-ay) and Tongariro. Mount Ruapehu captured world headlines in 1995 when it burst into life, blasting a plume of ash and dust 12 kilometres into the atmosphere and emptying its Crater Lake. A lahar and a small eruption made headlines again in 2007. Ngauruhoe has had several small eruptions, while Tongariro has been dormant since 1927. We head to the western side of Ruapehu passing through a groovy little village called Ohakune (O-ha-ku-neigh). If you are keen to get off and spend some time exploring

the area, there is plenty to do. There is accommodation at Turangi, Whakapapa (Fa-ka-papa), National Park Village and Ohakune. Matai Lodge in Ohakune has a great range of accommodation options and provides excellent advice and bookings for activities throughout the area. Canoeing through the Whanganui National Park is a favourite. They offer a shuttle service to the mountain for skiing and boarding during ski season. An hours drive later, we enter the remote and green surroundings of River Valley Adventure Lodge. Towering cliffs and bush-clad hills surround the lodge. The Rangitikei (Rang-a-tea-kay) River runs right past the front door. This location offers some great activities including a very scenic horse trek and wicked rafting down some amazing rapids, or you may prefer to take part in a couple of short walks in the area or simply relax at the lodge.

TAUPO > RIVER VALLEY The story of River Valley goes back half a century, when the area that is now the Lodge was the back of a family farm. The owners at the time, Brian and Robin Sage, parents and parents-in-law of the present owners, Brian and Nicola Megaw, had a dream of sharing this beautiful location with other people. In 1978 an American river guide came through and suggested that the Rangitikei would be a great river to raft - and he was right. Today itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s one of only a handful of grade 5 rivers commercially rafted in New Zealand. It is famous for its steep and technically demanding rapids.

The lodge offers a range of adventure activities including horse trekking, guided walks, multi-day river journeys, kayaking, and the River Valley Spa complex complete with saunas, spa and massage therapy. Kiwi Experience found this unique place about 15 years ago and weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve been coming back ever since. River Valley is a combination of adventure, atmosphere, fun, great food, beautiful surroundings, and friendly staff. We suggest that you make the most of it. Get outside, explore, take part, immerse yourself in the surroundings and enjoy the River Valley culture.

hand ringa ears taringa

head mahunga eyes karu/mata fingers mati

arm ringa

nose ihu

mouth waha

stomach puku

knee pona

leg waewae

foot waewae

Wellington city map

RIVER VALLEY > WELLINGTON Funky Chicken TRAVEL Day SEVEN RIVER VALLEY > WELLINGTON RIVER VALLEY TAIHAPE

BULLS

LEVIN KAPITI ISLAND

PARAPARAUMU

WELLINGTON

After a morning getting amongst the numerous adventure activities on offer, we head from River Valley through to the gumboot capital, Taihape (Tie-happy). Then we stop briefly in Bulls. Check out the names on the shops and buildings here, the Police Station is named ‘Consta-Bull’. The drive to Wellington is dominated by the Ruahine (Rooa-he-neigh) and Tararua (Ta-ra-roo-a) Ranges, and rolling farmland. Not too far from the city we hit the Kapiti (Cup-a-tea) Coast, most of which was wrenched out of the sea by a large earthquake in 1855. Kapiti Island is a native bird sanctuary that has a very successful kiwi bird-breeding program. It was once home to one of the most feared of all Maori chiefs, Te Rauparaha and his band of warriors. Wellington is located directly on a major earthquake fault line. Wellington’s biggest earthquake was recorded in 1855 and measured 8 on the Richter scale. There is a lot of seismic activity in the area, so don’t be surprised if you feel a shake while you’re here.

highlights • Relax and chill out at the lodge • Grade 5 white water rafting trip on the Rangitikei River • Horse trekking through rugged and remote farmland • Bush walks • 9 hole ‘country’ golf course (see if you can hit a sheep) • Possum spotting (the flat variety) • Wellington night life

optional hop-offs $26 off River Valley rafting $16 off River Valley horse riding

• Taihape • Bulls • Levin • Kapiti Coast

NB: Discount correct at time of print

Were you born in a tent?

Sarcastic question asked of a person who leaves the door open

RIVER VALLEY > WELLINGTON If you’re after a bit of civilised fun or contemporary kiwi culture, chances are you’ll find it here. Home of the government, Wellington is also the undisputed capital of culture, the arts, dining and nightlife in New Zealand. It’s home to the largest cultural attraction, Te Papa Museum, which is well worth a look - and it’s free! The nightlife in Wellington is generally very good, and it’s busiest Thursday to Sunday. Check out Courtenay Place, a playground of restaurants, cafes, bars and nightclubs. You may notice one of New Zealand’s most unusual pieces of architecture, the Beehive, and no prizes for guessing why it’s called that. It was designed by a British architect, Sir Basil Spence, who came upon the idea for the design over a couple of gin and tonics one night (one too many some say). He looked at

a box of matches and decided that the design on the front of the packet would be fitting for the offices of the Prime Minister and Members of Parliament in New Zealand. So we said, why not. While in Wellington, you’ll get the chance to pick up some information on the Nelson Tasman region. Talk to your Driver Guide and make sure that you don’t miss out on the Abel Tasman National Park. You will be able to book various activity options on the bus before you arrive at your next destination. You will need to book your ferry ticket before you catch the ferry from Wellington to Picton. Talk to your Driver Guide for more information.

rab a copy of the What’s On guide G Te Papa Museum Art galleries Live theatre Take a tour of the parliament buildings and join in at the House of Parliament for some stimulating debate Take the cable car up to the Botanic Gardens Go mountain biking up Mount Victoria or just about anywhere around the area - locals rave about it Step back in time at Katherine Mansfield’s birthplace. She is one of New Zealand’s famous short story writers K elburn’s Botanic Garden is worth a look, and if you have time the northern walkway winds from here above the suburbs of the city and through several parks For the beach goers, buses depart from Oriental Parade Wellington Rover does tours around all the bays and coastal walks in the area. Check out Rover’s Ring tour to see a few filming spots 86

RIVER VALLEY > WELLINGTON

To get between the North and South Island of New Zealand you need to cross Cook Strait. Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the bit of water between the two islands! Because there are two options to get across Cook Strait this part of your journey is not included in your Kiwi Experience ticket. If you would like to fly across the strait, you can call Sounds Air on 0800 505 005 to book yourself a seat. You will need to organise your own transport to the airport

and make sure your flight gets into Picton before 12 noon when the coach leaves. If you are crossing with the Interislander ferry and wish to be part of the group booking, make sure you pay for your ferry ticket at Base Backpackers the night before you travel. It doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t matter which hostel you are staying at, just make sure Base Backpackers know you want to be part of the group booking.

RIVER VALLEY > WELLINGTON

BORED ON THE FERRY? Each Sudoku has a unique solution that can be reached logically without guessing. Enter digits from 1 to 9 into the blank spaces. Every row, column and 3x3 square must contain one of each digit. Good luck! Check your answers on page 154.

2 8 9 7

6 4

8 5 7 6 9 2 1 5

3 5

1 6 4 9 1 5 1 9 6 5

4 4

1 4 8 5 7 1 9 3 9 7 6 2 1 8 1 5 8 9 4 8 2 2 1 9 7

5 4 6 3

2 6 1 4 9 8 5 6 4 1 3 8 5 9 4 7 1 8 1 7 4 9 3 7 9 7 5

8 7 1 2 5 9 4 1 8

4 2 1 7 4 8 3 9 5 5 9 1 7 8 6 4 5 3 4 1 8 9 9 8 2 7 3 8 6 9 8 8 3

BORED ON THE FERRY? Challenge yourself to our tricky little word game and see how much kiwi lingo you’ve picked up so far... All the words below are hidden in the puzzle. See how many you can find. Look for them horizontally, vertically, diagonally and backwards. Check your answers on page 154.

ADVENTURE BRO BUNGY BUZZY BEE FUNKY CHICKEN GLOWWORMS GREENSTONE GUMBOOT HANGI

JANDALS KAI KAPAI KEA KIA ORA KIWIFRUIT LONG DROP MATE PAVLOVA

POSSUM STEW PRIMO SHEEP STOKED SWEET AS WEKA WHANAU WHITEBAIT FRITTERS

WELLINGTON > PICTON > KAITERITERI Funky Chicken TRAVEL Day EIGHT WELLINGTON > PICTON > KAITERITERI

kaiteriteri

MARLBOROUGH SOUNDS

WELLINGTON

TASMAN BAY

NELSON

HAVELOCK

PICTON

fer ry COOK STRAIT

highlights • Ferry journey across the Cook Straight to the South Island • Marlborough Sounds and Picton • Abel Tasman National Park

optional hop-offs • Picton • Nelson

Our adventure begins at the Wellington ferry terminal. The bus departs at 7:15am for the ferry departure for Picton (times can change so confirm with your Driver Guide upon arrival in Wellington). The Cook Strait crossing takes three hours. You will pass through the Queen Charlotte Sound where you may spot a dolphin or a sunbathing seal. Once at Picton, collect your luggage and meet the coach in the bus park outside the terminal. For those of you flying across the strait with Sounds Air, you will need to make your own way to Wellington airport. The flight takes 25 minutes and gives you awesome views of Wellington, the Cook Strait and the Sounds. When you arrive at Picton Airport, collect your luggage from the plane. A shuttle will then take you to Picton’s ferry terminal to meet the coach. Picton is the gateway to the Marlborough Sounds. With secluded, picturesque coves and beaches, beautiful native bush and pleasant weather, the Marlborough Sounds are a New Zealand tourism jewel. Maori have lived here for generations and the area is the subject of much folklore and legend. The Queen Charlotte Walkway starts at Ship’s Cove and winds 67 kilometres down to Anakiwa at the bottom of Queen Charlotte Sound. The views on this walk are breathtaking and made all the more enjoyable with the available pack-transport service

$9 off Kaiteriteri Kayaks Split Apple Classic $10 off Kaiteriteri Kayaks Royal with Cheese NB: Discount correct at time of print

You’re in the dog box You’re in trouble

WELLINGTON > PICTON > KAITERITERI (included in some ferry tickets). Travellers joining up in Picton meet the coach at 11:45am in the bus park to the left of the terminal. Departing Picton, we head out via the scenic Marlborough Valley. Watch out for the vineyards along the steep hillsides. The Marlborough region is world famous for its delicious Sauvignon Blanc variety of wines. We then pass through a small town called Havelock. Havelock’s main claim to fame is the ‘Greenlip Mussel Capital of the World’. If you like mussels then make sure you sample some of the local fare this region is famous for.

After a brief stop in Nelson we travel through to Kaiteriteri at the doorstep of the Abel Tasman National Park. Surrounded by golden sands and blue water, Kaiteriteri boasts some of the best year-round weather New Zealand has to offer. This evening, you’ll enjoy your stay in the newly renovated Kaiteri Lodge, only a minutes walk from the beach, with its own bar serving cold drinks on hot afternoons. Provided the weather gods are smiling, you may wish to go skydiving while you are in the region, with Skydive Abel Tasman. You’ll be able to check out the spectacular views of the Motueka Valley and Abel Tasman National Park from above. Skydive Abel Tasman offers

WELLINGTON > PICTON > KAITERITERI a full range of skydiving options including tandem skydiving, learn to skydive packages and sport skydiving. A 360ยบ turn during the skydive allows you awesome views of the Southern Alps (snow capped in winter), North Island mountain peaks, golden beaches, blue sea and meandering rivers.

Chill out at the beach Hire a mountain bike for the day ultiple days tramping through the Abel M Tasman National Park on the coastal track* alk the Heaphy Track through W Kahurangi National Park - meet the bus in Westport* * Refer to the walks in the National Parks section in this guide for more detailed information.

KAITERITERI > WESTPORT Funky Chicken TRAVEL Day NINE KAITERITERI > WESTPORT KAITERITERI ABEL TASMAN NATIONAL PARK

TASMAN BAY

With a late departure today, you can launch a kayak straight off the beach and take a guided tour past the unmistakeable Split Apple Rock with one of Kaiteriteri Kayaks’ half day adventures. From out on the water in your kayak, you’ll have a great view of the stunning coastline with the chance to get up close to seals and dolphins if you’re lucky. From Kaiteriteri you can also head out to explore the Abel Tasman National Park on any of the kayak/water taxi/walk combos offered by Kaiteriteri Kayaks. Trips range from half a day to two days so there’s an option to suit everyone.

WESTPORT MURCHISON

LAKE ROTOITI

highlights • Sea Kayaking to Split Apple Rock • Water Taxi into Abel Tasman National Park • Buller Gorge • Jet boating • Horse riding

$10 off Buller Adventures jet boating $10 off Buller Adventures horse riding NB: Discount correct at time of print

OTP

On the piss

kaiteriteri > WESTPORT We leave Kaiteriteri and travel through to Murchison for a stop at the tea rooms with their famous ice creams. From Murchison we wind our way down the amazing Buller Gorge. Buller Gorge is one of the South Island’s longest and most scenic drives. We will travel alongside the almighty Buller River, which rises from Lake Rotoiti and flows into the Tasman Sea at Westport. The Buller River’s Maori name is ‘Kawatiri’, meaning deep and swift. This is quite fitting for a river that has the greatest flood discharge of all of New Zealand’s rivers. Just before Westport we meet the team from Buller Adventure Tours. You can select from a variety of awesome activities including jet-boating, quad biking or horse trekking through native bush, farm land and along the

Buller River. Depending on our arrival time the activities run either that afternoon or the following morning. From Buller Adventure Tours you’ll hop onboard one of New Zealand’s most powerful jet boats for an exhilarating 75 minute ride through temperate rainforest. No guarantees of staying dry! Or you can jump on a horse or quad bike for a couple of hours of fun by the river. Buller Adventure Tours offer some of the most personalised and great value activities in New Zealand. Westport has a mild climate boasting 2,000 hours of sunshine (more than Auckland, Christchurch or Wellington). This provides an ideal setting for outdoor pursuits. The first settlers in Westport were lured to

kaiteriteri > WESTPORT the area with the promise of gold. When the gold began to dwindle, their attention turned to the hills north of Westport. A new source of wealth had been discovered - black gold - shiny bituminous coal. From the late 1870â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the town embarked on its long history of coal mining. An obvious feature of the town is the breakwaters. These stretch out to sea, ending with a lighthouse on the end of the man-made construction. If you have a spare moment in

If you want to book a twin or double room in Queenstown, now is a good time to talk to your Driver Guide about it, as it often gets booked up fast.

the evening, a walk along the edge of the breakwater during sunset is amazing. These breakwaters were developed to help ship the coal from the port and effectively provided a deep gully maintained by natural scour for the ships to pass through. 86% of the land in the Westport area is under Department of Conservation management.

Beach walk Head north to Karamea where there are spectacular caves and the finish/start of the Heaphy Track

CHRISTCHURCH > GREYMOUTH > LAKE MAHINAPUA AND THE TRANZALPINE TRAIN JOURNEY TRANZALPINE DOG LEG TRAVEL Day ONE CHRISTCHURCH > GREYMOUTH TRANZALPINE TRAIN

highlights

Christchurch to Mahinapua via Greymouth The morning starts early. Once you’ve made your way to the Christchurch train station you board the world famous TranzAlpine train for a trip through the heart of the Southern Alps. The trip is 223.8 kilometres long and takes just four and a half hours. There are 16 tunnels, and five viaducts. The highest is the Staircase that stands at 73 metres high. After arriving in Greymouth on the wild West Coast your Kiwi Experience Driver Guide will collect you from the train station at 2:00pm. They will advise you of the necessary afternoon shopping before heading further south for our famous night at the legendary Mahinapua Hotel. This evening’s events will include a group meal cooked by Les and your Driver Guide at the ‘Poo Pub’ before taking part in the night’s festivities.

• TranzAlpine train • Southern Alps • Arthur’s Pass National Park • Mahinapua Hotel

For everyone starting the ‘TranzAlpine Back Paddock’ or ‘TranzAlpine Dog Leg’ pass you need to make your own way to the Christchurch train station and won’t meet your Driver Guide until arrival in Greymouth for your Kiwi Experience adventure down the West Coast. Make sure you confirm your TranzAlpine booking with Kiwi Experience reservations so they can send you all the information you need to know to start your journey with us.

One short of a six pack Not quite the full quid

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WESTPORT > LAKE MAHINAPUA FUNKY CHICKEN TRAVEL Day TEN KEA TRAVEL Day FOUR WESTPORT > LAKE MAHINAPUA

Today we journey down the spectacular State Highway 6 that stretches 435 kilometres along the rugged Tasman shoreline, from Westport in the north, to the Haast Junction in the south. The road winds through a diverse series of landscapes which never cease to amaze both locals and visitors alike. This includes fertile farmland, sparsely populated towns, deserted goldfields, lush green rainforests, and the snow capped Southern Alps. The West Coast has a special place in the folklore of New Zealand. This is doubtlessly the result of the large contingent of Irish who came for gold and later settled here. There are about 40,000 people who call the coast home. The coast is accepted as a place where nothing is too outrageous to have occurred, and where the improbable is common.

highlights

• Cape Foulwind - walk to the Tauranga Bay seal colony • Paparoa National Park • Punakaiki Pancake Rocks and Blowholes • Wild West Coast scenery • Unique overnight stay at a historic West Coast pub • Conversation with Uncle Les - New Zealand’s oldest (and most eccentric) publican • Group BBQ meal cooked by your Driver Guide • Themed party • Your very own beach to watch the sun set • Glowworms after dark • Truman Track

A short drive from town is Cape Foulwind and Tauranga Bay where you can walk to one of New Zealand’s largest seal colonies. It is here that you can sniff kangaroos, as you are now at New Zealand’s closest point to Australia and if you look really hard into the distance... you’ve got absolutely no chance of seeing it.

optional hop-offs • Punakaiki • Greymouth • Hokitika

Every man and his dog will be there

A wide cross-section of society will be there

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WESTPORT > LAKE MAHINAPUA Punakaiki is also a great place to jump off and get involved in volunteering with Conservation Volunteers. In the Paparoa National Park this volunteer project is focused on habitat restoration with a variety of activities such as tree planting, seed collection and removal of weeds. Ask your Driver Guide for more information.

We stop for a couple of walks along the coast. These may include the Truman Track and Pororari River. We will also check out the Punakaiki (Poo-na-kai-key) Pancake Rocks and blowholes. The Pancake Rocks are a series of stratified limestone stacks which, over many thousands of years, have been eroded to resemble giant piles of neatly stacked pancakes. Another prominent feature is the blowholes. At high tide or in heavy weather, the blowholes explode with a spectacular spray. The cafe here has yummy food - try their famous pancakes. This is usually your lunch stop. If you have time, jump off at Punakaiki. Canoe with Punakaiki Canoe Hire, through Paparoa National Park. Course between limestone cliffs and lush temperate rainforest. If hiking trails is your thing, try the Inland Pack Track or the Coresis Track - but don’t forget to check the weather. This is a great place to experience the elements of nature.

Leaving Punakaiki, our next stop is Greymouth where we pick up people joining us from Christchurch and the TranzAlpine train. We’ll also do some shopping for tonight’s huge BBQ meal. It is a good opportunity to stock up on food supplies and cash due to the very limited opportunities between here and Wanaka. Greymouth is the chief commercial centre of the West Coast with a population of about 12,000. The town was founded on gold, continued on coal, and now relies on industries such as timber, coal, sheep, dairy

Bring a plate

Bring a contribution of food - “Hey guys, bring a plate to the party”

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WESTPORT > LAKE MAHINAPUA and greenstone. Pounamu (Poe-na-mu) or Nephrite Jade, has a huge significance to Maori. Make sure you buy the genuine New Zealand Pounamu and not something that has been imported. A good selection of Pounamu is at the Mahinapua Hotel. You may even get to meet the local carver Gary. Ask your Driver Guide, he’ll point him out. From here it’s on to Hokitika. Just before entering Hokitika you will cross a second rail/ vehicle bridge over the Arahura River. It is from this valley, up to your left, that our valuable Pounamu comes from. You will get the opportunity many times around New Zealand to see this rock carved. It is in fact the hardest rock – any harder and it would be termed a gem. Although the prosperity of Hokitika only lasted five years, for those five years the entire town was filled with gold. It was possible for someone crossing a river to find gold in his boots at the other side and every time it flooded, nuggets were discovered in the street.

Enjoy an amazing group steak meal cooked by Les and your Driver Guide. Delicious! After dinner everyone gets ready for the evening’s themed party. Remember there is usually a great prize(s) for the best dressed, so get creative and have a great night.

alk down to the beach for a game of W rugby, cricket or soccer hill out in the pub and sample some C local Monteith’s beer Watch the sun set ead down to Lake Mahinapua after H midnight and meet the glowworms. On a still, moonlit night, you can see the reflection of the Southern Alps in the lake

We stop 10 kilometres further south at the Lake Mahinapua (Maa-he-naa-poo-a) Hotel where we spend the night. You’ll understand why we have decided to stop at Lake Mahinapua when you meet the legendary Les Lisle and the locals. After meeting Les and getting settled in, take the two minute walk to the beach to watch the sunset. You could also head down to the lake and explore one of the most scenic places on the West Coast.

Get off the grass

Expression of disbelief or disapproval

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DEDICATION TO THE POSSUM

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DEDICATION TO THE POSSUM Bad move! People didn’t realise the devastation possums would cause to the native flora and fauna. In one night, 70 million possums chomp their way through about 20,000 tonnes of vegetation - that is equivalent to about 190 million burgers! That means that in one year, the possums in New Zealand eat nearly seven and a half million tonnes of vegetation. The reason why possums have such a devastating impact is that they have no natural predators in New Zealand so they are free to chomp and chew what they want and they don’t just eat leaves. Possums also eat our native insects and bird's eggs and sometimes even their chicks.

There are about 70 million possums in New Zealand - that’s about 20 per person! And with female possums having a baby each year they just keep reproducing. On your travels you are more likely to see the flat, dead variety on our roads. Although cute and cuddly, we Kiwis prefer the flat variety as possums are a significant pest species because they eat our native forest faster than it is regenerating. The first possums were introduced to New Zealand in 1837 for the fur trade from Australia where they are a protected species.

With so many of our native plant and animal species already rare or endangered the last thing we need is a healthy population of possums pushing them to extinction. Conservationists, land owners, government departments, regional councils, farmers and businesses have been working together to GET RID OF POSSUMS! It is important to protect New Zealand’s native plants and animals from pests like the possum.

How can you help? 1. I f you come across one while driving at

night, for your own safety do not swerve to avoid them - flatten them!

2. W e have an awesome selection of

souvenirs made out of possum for you to take back home. Nipple warmers, willy warmers, socks, hats and pillow cases to name a few!

3. G o possum hunting with a friendly

BUGGER!

local farmer.

Remember, behind that cute and fluffy exterior, there’s a killer. 105

LAKE MAHINAPUA > FRANZ JOSEF FUNKY CHICKEN TRAVEL Day ELEVEN & TWELVE KEA TRAVEL Day FIVE & SIX

The self-explanatory tour is interactive and very interesting.

TRANzALPINE DOG LEG TRAVEL Day TWO & THREE LAKE MAHINAPUA > FRANZ JOSEF

LAKE MAHINAPUA

TASMAN SEA

ROSS PUKEKURA WHATAROA

fRANZ JOsef

highlights • Bushman’s Centre • Eco-Kayaking on Lake Mapourika • Scenic heli flights • Paintball • Other walks close to Franz Josef including the Tunnels Walk and Canavan’s Knob (cool name) • Horse trekking • Hot pools • West Coast Wildlife Centre

This morning starts with a short drive to Pukekura (Pook-e-ku-ra) where you’ll find the Bushman’s Centre. The centre offers an insight into how people make a living on the coast through sphagnum moss, timber-milling, possum trapping and helicopter deer recovery.

Depending on which activities you are keen to do in Franz Josef, we may go to Okarito. Okarito Lagoon is the largest unmodified wetland in New Zealand. It covers 3000 hectares of shallow open water and tidal flats. There is a 1 hour walk with stunning views of the Southern Alps, native birds and the towering Rimu and Kahikitea trees. We head south to Franz Josef Glacier Village, nestled in Westland National Park, passing numerous kettle lakes along the way. Kettle lakes are created as glaciers retreat and leave huge chunks of ice behind that melt and form deep lakes. The glacier region of South Westland is a land rich in natural wonders - majestic snowcapped peaks, vast forests, sand dunes, lagoons and beaches nestled along the varied coastline. This region is the northern gateway to Te Wahipounamu, the Southwest New Zealand World Heritage area. The region includes Aoraki/Mount Cook, Westland Tai Poutini, Mount Aspiring, the Fiordland National Parks, and surrounding conservation lands. It is an almost continuous stretch of wilderness where the impact of humans is confined to a few small settlements and the narrow strip of the main highway. World Heritage status means this part of New Town bike

A person free with sexual favours

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LAKE MAHINAPUA > FRANZ JOSEF Zealand has been recognised as being among the world’s foremost natural landscapes. Westland Tai Poutini National Park is a striking feature of the glacial region, encompassing the two famous glaciers - Franz Josef (Ka Roimata o Hine Hukatere) and Fox (Te Moeka o Tuawe). But there is more to see than these two magnificent rivers of ice. The park stretches from isolated beaches beside the Tasman Sea to some of New Zealand’s highest peaks. Within these boundaries are an incredible variety of natural landscapes. In many places the conservation areas are in a continuous sequence from ocean to mountain, sadly a sight that’s now rare in the world. The region is home to a number of rare and endangered birds including the Okarito brown kiwi, whio (Blue duck), the kakariki and kaka with its magnificent scarlet feathers. The glacial region is also rich in human history. The coastline, river valleys and alpine passes were known to Maori long before the first European settlers stepped ashore. There were large settlements of Maori at Okarito, Mahitahi (Bruce Bay) and Makawhio (Jacobs River). The main attraction was pounamu that Maori used to make tools, weapons and jewellery. European interest began when sealers pursued New Zealand fur seals along the coast. Later, gold was discovered. The black sand beaches near Okarito, with their hidden layers of fine alluvial gold, were some of the richest gold claims in all Westland. Settlers used the region’s extensive forests for timber as well and used river flats and valleys for farmland. The rugged wilderness however, being difficult to access, has meant Grog

Liquor of any kind

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LAKE MAHINAPUA > FRANZ JOSEF much of the land was left untouched. Over the years these areas have been protected for all to enjoy in a series of parks, reserves and wilderness areas.

the following activities. Today is your chance to get out there and experience what Franz Josef has to offer. It’s a wicked spot and whatever you get out and do, you will be blown away by the views of the glacier and Alps.

Upon arrival into the township we stop at the Franz Josef Glacier Guide’s office to confirm tomorrow’s glacial activities. There are four trips to choose from that suit all fitness levels and budgets. There’s miles of bush walks should the glacier not be your thing. In addition to experiencing a guided glacier hike (rated by travellers as one of the best activities in New Zealand) you should also have time to do one of the other activities - refer to the Franz Josef activity page for more details. If you have plenty of time in New Zealand you may wish to hop-off the bus here for a few extra days - there is so much to see and do. Abel Tasman was the first Pakeha (European) to see the Franz Josef Glacier in 1642 as he sailed along the coast looking for somewhere to cool his beers. But it was not until 1862 that it received its name from the Austrian explorer, Julius von Haast, in honour of the Emperor of Austria. Glacial movement has been recorded since 1893 and since then the glacier has advanced and retreated many times. Westland National Park is a unique reserve extending from sea level at Gillespie’s Beach up to 3505 metres at the main divide of the Alps. This park contains 60 named glaciers including Franz Josef and Fox, as well as the Copland Hot Springs, New Zealand’s southern most thermally active area. These glaciers dominate the park, descending from perpetual snow at 2500 metres to a terminal face at 250 metres above sea level. There is only one other place in the World, Patagonia, where glaciers descend into rainforest. We factor in a free day in Franz Josef so that you can get excited about ice and do some of Throw a wobbly To have a fit of temper or high emotion. Children have tantrums; adults throw wobblies

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LAKE MAHINAPUA > FRANZ JOSEF

The legend of how Maui slows down the sun

Franz Josef Glacier

Maui is to the Pacific as Hercules is to Europe. A legend with many accomplishments recorded as far as Hawaii in the north, Tahiti in the east and down south here in Aotearoa. Here’s the legend of how he slowed down the sun.

The Franz Josef (Ka Roimata o Hinehukatere in Maori) is a 12 kilometres long glacier located in Westland National Park. It’s unique because it descends from the Southern Alps to less than 300 metres above sea level amidst the temperate rainforest. One of only three in the world to do so.

Maui, annoyed with the suns fleeting visits, decided he’ll slow it down so there was more daylight to get ‘work’ done... err hmmm. He took a jawbone from his ancestor Muri-ranga-whenua to snare the sun.

The glacier is currently 12 kilometres long and terminates 19 kilometres from the Tasman Sea. It’s fed by a 20 square metres bowl of snow high in the Southern Alps.

After a couple of goes and with the help of his brothers, Maui finally nooses the sun. Maui beats the crap out of the sun with a jaw-bone club and says “hey mate, slow down or else.” The Sun promises to go slower in the future. And fair enough too.

It frequently advances and retreats due to climate and melt water at the foot of the glacier. Strong snowfall where the glacier descends from makes the glacier one of the few in the country that continues to grow, at times as much as 70 centimetres per day. However, it is believed that the glacier reached all the way to the sea some 10,000 years ago meaning that overall the glacier has shrunk. The name

heck out the display gallery of the C geology, flora/fauna and history of the area at the Visitor Information Centre in the village Climb up to sub-alpine terrain with superb views of the glacier, mountains and coastline at Alex’s Knob (8 hours return) or Robert’s Point (5 hours return) Canavans Knob (40 minutes return) climb to see glacier and coastal views, is not far from town Tartare Tunnel Walk (80 minutes return) with gold mining relics. Take a flashlight to explore the old tunnel but be prepared to wade through cold water

Maori call the glacier Ka Roimata o Hinehukatere (the tears of Hinehukatere). The name comes from a local legend. Hinehukatere loved mountain climbing and talked her man Tawe into coming for a hike with her. Unfortunately, Tawe wasn’t much of a climber and as they climbed, an avalanche took him out. Hinehukatere was devastated and remained in the mountains sobbing, her tears freezing creating the glacier. Franz Joseph itself was named after the Austrian Emperor, Franz Joseph I in 1865 by the German explorer, Julius von Haast. We reckon Hinehukatere’s legend makes for much better reading.

Til the cows come home

Indicating a longish period with no promise of success at the end of it

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FRANZ JOSEF ACTIVITIES On the day you arrive in Franz Josef you may have time to do one of the activities listed below. Ask your Driver Guide for further details. Most activities are weather dependent. If you have plenty of time in New Zealand this is a unique spot well worth hopping off the bus for. It’s a great opportunity to take a few extra days to experience New Zealand’s finest.

Glacier walks with Franz Josef glacier guides (Half Day) This is a fantastic introduction to the Franz Josef glacier system. Traverse spectacular tracks that are only moderately difficult. This experience is suitable for most people.

The Glacier AdventurE (full day hike)

Our world renowned full day option takes you into the superb scenery at the heart of the glacier. The excellent step-cutting skills of your guide allows you to travel through the most spectacular and challenging glacial terrain imaginable. This will satisfy even the most ardent of adventurers. We’ll even take you further, into the most spectacular ice falls and guarantee the most extensive and rewarding glacier adventure in New Zealand.

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Heli Hikes & Scenic Flights The Heli-Hike After an exciting scenic flight over all three ice-falls, you land high up on the glacier. You then undertake a two hour guided walk amongst some of the most pristine and awe-inspiring glacier scenery available. You’ll enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountains as your guide leads you through a wonderland of towering pinnacles and brilliantly blue ice, in comfort and ease.

FRANZ JOSEF ACTIVITIES Glacier Country Kayaks

Ice Climbing

Explore Lake Mapourika and enjoy a stimulating journey following a unique set of waterways and eco-systems through a world heritage park. The lake is a Kiwi gem with an outstanding overview of the Southern Alps for people wishing to enjoy the tranquility of an untouched section of New Zealand. This trip operates in a localised mountain climate, which means if itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s raining on the glacier it could be spectacular on the lake. Small groups, enthusiastic guides and an absolutely stunning setting make this kayak tour 'one of a kind'! To top it all off, photos are included at no cost, just to help remind you of this unique experience. A hearty meal at Monsoon Bar is also included in the price. Paddle with Glacier Country Kayaks and discover natural New Zealand rainforest at it's purest.

A day packed with adventure and adrenalin highs. Expert tuition and all technical equipment is provided.

What to wear on the glacier? The ideal outfit to wear is a hat and two to three layers on your upper body, preferably made of polypropylene, wool or fleece material. You should also wear shorts or loose trousers. Shorts may sound strange but trousers will get wet and can be restrictive throughout the day. So long as you have your layers on top you will be warm, and just remember, you lose 80% of your body heat through your head so a woolly hat is essential on cold days.

The creation of the Southern Alps The myth regarding the creation of the Te Tiritiri o Te Moana (Southern Alps) varies from iwi (tribe) to iwi. A local story of the Ngai Tahu Maori starts with Aoraki (also the maori name for Mount Cook) and his three brothers Rakiora, Rakirua and Rarakiroa. The four were sons of the Sky Father Rakanui and Earth Mother, Papatuanuku. The four decide to descend from the sky on a magical waka (canoe) to visit their mother Papatuanuku, who lays flat on the mythical land Hawaiki. On the return voyage, they visit the surrounding seas then they returned to their father. However, as they rose, the waka tipped on its side. When the waka hit the water the brothers turned to stone. The waka became the South Island and the brothers became the Southern Alps. Local Maori call the Island Te Waka o Aoraki (the canoe of Aoraki). It is also known commonly as Te Wai Pounamu (the waters of greenstone). 113

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FRANZ JOSEF > WANAKA We start out early in order to catch the perfect mirror reflection of Mount Cook on Lake Matheson, near the town of Fox Glacier. Get those unreal postcard shots to send home and spend an hour or so walking around Lake Matheson. After the walk we do breakfast and get supplies for today’s journey.

FUNKY CHICKEN TRAVEL Day THIRTEEN KEA TRAVEL Day SEVEN tranzalpine DOG LEG TRAVEL Day four FRANZ JOSEF > WANAKA fRANZ JOsef FOX GLACIER

TASMAN SEA

MT.COOK

HAAST

LAKE WANAKA

We may stop for a picnic lunch at a scenic spot en route depending on the weather. Watch out for the nibbling sand flies. There’s a chance you’ll see the Hector’s dolphin, the smallest dolphin in the world. After we pass the township of Haast we head into the mountains and bid our farewell to the coastline. Watch the scenery change dramatically as today’s journey continues. The trip up the Haast River is one you will agree is totally gorgeous. We cross the bridge at the Gates of Haast, head up the pass and into the Mount Aspiring National Park. This pass was used by the Maori to trade Pounamu and food. It is the lowest pass over the main divide, a mere 563 metres

LAKE HAWEA

WANAKA

highlights

• Lake Matheson • Mount Cook • Fox Glacier • Ship Creek • Haast River/Pass • Thunder Creek Falls • Blue Pools • Lakes Hawea and Wanaka • Skydive Lake Wanaka • Have a Shot • Mt Iron Walk - wicked views of Wanaka

For the best deals in Queenstown, talk to the crew at MAD Travel in Nomads.

optional hop-offs • Fox Glacier • Copland Track • Makarora

Happy as Larry Very happy

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FRANZ JOSEF > WANAKA above sea level. As you pass through Haast Pass you can see huge cracks signifying the fault lines associated with the main divide. We also stop to have a look at a waterfall or two, as we make our way up over the mountains. As we come down the eastern side of the main divide, we track over toward Makarora (Mak-a-roar-ra), a wilderness stopover boasting a population of 60, if you can find them!

to look out for that initial view of the Dingle Burn Range. Local mythology suggests that Lakes Hawea and Wanaka were dug out by a chief named Te Rakaihautu. Te Rakaihautu apparently reached the shores of Aotearoa on a waka, called Uruao. With him he brought a massive spade and proceeded to dig out the depressions, which are now known as Lake Hawea and Wanaka.

An hour or so drive from Makarora takes us through to Wanaka where we enter the Otago region with its stunning lakes district and imposing mountain ranges.

On the edge of a pristine alpine lake, surrounded by the spectacular scenery of Mount Aspiring National Park, Lake Wanaka is the ideal destination for both outdoor adventures and soothing relaxation. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy a multitude of activities from trekking in the National Park to mountain biking, rock climbing to kayaking. Four international ski areas provide excellent skiing and snowboarding in winter for every age and ability.

Wanaka is known commonly as the headquarters of Mt Aspiring National Park. People venture to the area to camp, fish, swim, boat, water ski and of course ski and snowboard on the local fields in the winter. On the way to this picturesque spot you will skirt past the fifth largest lake in New Zealand, Lake Wanaka, before crossing over to Lake Hawea. Be sure

For those looking for more relaxed options,

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FRANZ JOSEF > WANAKA Lake Wanaka is within easy reach of dozens of award-winning vineyards. The selection of restaurants, cafes and shops is excellent and there is a thriving arts and crafts community. The scenic golf course has spectacular views across the lake. The lake hosts relaxing cruises, thrilling jet boat rides and excellent fishing. A full events calendar means there is always something happening in Lake Wanaka with many world class events including the Warbirds over Wanaka Airshow, the Festival of Colour arts festival, Race to the Sky car rally, and the Rippon Music Festival. See New Zealandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s highest mountains, Mount Cook (Aoraki) and Mount Aspiring (Tititea), glaciers and glistening rivers from the best vantage point with Wanaka Skydive. They offer tandem skydiving from 15,000ft and 12,000ft.

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Skydive Lake Wanaka introduce you to the awesome adrenalin rush of skydiving, whilst delivering an unequalled level of safety and personal service in one of the most stunning locations in New Zealand.

n the afternoon of arrival you may O have time to head out to Have a Shot where there is a broad range of low cost activities to choose from Walk up Mt Iron for a great view of Wanaka Trek in the mountains: several operators offer overnight and multi-day treks into regions of the National Park or go hard and mountain bike them! Wanaka Movie Theatre - an alternative theatre with old couches serving hot chocolate chip cookies during the interval!

WANAKA > QUEENSTOWN FUNKY CHICKEN TRAVEL Day FOURTEEN & FIFTEEN KEA TRAVEL Day EIGHT & NINE tranzalpine DOG LEG TRAVEL Day five & six WANAKA > QUEENSTOWN LAKE WANAKA

WANAKA QUEENSTOWN

CROMWELL

LAKE WAKATIPU

highlights • Puzzling World • Kawarau Gorge and Kawarau Bungy Bridge • Group photo • Queenstown nightlife

We depart Wanaka and head to Queenstown for an action packed day. Some of you may be up early skydiving and will meet us a little later in the morning. Our first stop is Puzzling World, where you can choose the free option of hanging out and attempting to solve all of the mind numbing puzzles available to you. Or you can conquer the maze and illusion house. Check out the toilets, highly entertaining! Puzzling World opened its gates in 1973 with the world’s first wooden maze. Over time, a ‘Puzzle Centre’ was developed for visitors to try their skill in solving a range of puzzles. An extra level was then added to the maze (the worlds first 3D maze!). Illusion rooms were also included to complement the brain bending theme of the business. From humble beginnings with little growth, both Wanaka and Puzzling World are now major tourist destinations. Puzzling World welcomes over 160,000 visitors a year! Grab something to eat before we head around the edge of Lake Dunstan toward the Kawarau Gorge.

optional hop-offs • Cromwell • The Kawarau Bungy Bridge!

Run like a hairy goat To move at speed

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WANAKA > QUEENSTOWN Upon entering the Kawarau Gorge (Kar-warow) you will notice the scenery transforms into rugged rocky terrain. This terrain posed a problem for early travellers and gold miners, and it was not until 1863 that the gorge provided access to Queenstown. Ask your Driver Guide to point out the steep, narrow and unsealed Nevis Road, which branches off the main drag. If you are entertaining the idea of jumping the 134 metre Nevis High Wire, the highest bungy in the country, then that is where you will be venturing when the time comes. For those who are not so keen on throwing yourself from such a height, then the Kawarau Bungy, at the historical suspension bridge over the Kawarau river, is for you.

Built in 1880, this structure assisted miners trying to reach Queenstown. It is now celebrated as the first commercially operated bungy site in the world. Bungy Jumping... Now there are a lot of myths associated with bungy jumping. Things like “Will I loose an eye if I jump?” Well if you feel your eyes coming out when you jump, we suggest closing them. You’ll feel a bit stretched and move from 5ft 10, to 6ft 6. Just kidding. Literally thousands of people have taken the plunge, and the safety record of AJ Hacketts speaks for itself. Safe! True it’s not everyone’s cup of tea, but it’s a great achievement and well worth considering. For those of you who are true adrenalin junkies, think about the ‘Thrillogy’, all three of the AJ Hackett jumps in Queenstown. Yee haa!

Tea bags

Those scared of bungy jumping!

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WANAKA > QUEENSTOWN When you pull into Queenstown your Driver Guide will show you many points of interest as well as what’s hot and what’s not. Then it’s off to get a group photo taken. From there you will be introduced to the crew at MAD Travel in Queenstown. They can assist you with activity bookings, general info on walks and other no or low cost activity options. They are busy people, but they are Queenstown experts and will help you choose the best activities for the best price. To celebrate our arrival into the adventure capital of the world we usually go out on the town. Queenstown’s nightlife is rated amongst the best in the country with over a hundred fantastic restaurants and bars in town. Make sure that you catch the activities and games at Altitude Bar. Or check out the infamous Teapot Cocktails and the pumping dance floor at The World Bar. A few handy tips: don’t forget your ID as most bars in town are very

strict and you don’t want to have to go back to your hostel to get it. Most bars in town have a free coat-check so make sure you don’t leave your valuables lying around while you dance the night away.

You need to book your accomodation in Christchurch as the Christchurch earthquake in February 2011 considerably reduced the number of hostels in the city. You can speak to the crew at MAD Travel or check out the accomodation section of this guide book.

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FREE DAY IN QUEENSTOWN FREE DAY IN QUEENSTOWN Queenstown is nestled on the shores of Lake Wakatipu, facing The Remarkables mountain range. It was the site of the largest gold rush in the country. Today it has an international reputation as the adventure capital of the world. This includes both day and night time activities. It has two major ski fields, Coronet Peak and The Remarkables. It has a population of about 20,000 people and is a four seasons destination both for international travellers, and Kiwis alike. Over the past twenty years, the region has boomed as people from all around the world have gravitated to it. It’s simply a magical and beautiful place that is fun-filled and action packed. There are several excellent walks in the area, and it’s the kind of place where you can relax, and party. Now that’s a good combo.

You can take advantage of the beautiful lake and surrounding walks or get into a whole range of adrenalin pumping activities. We recommend the Milford Explorer trip into the World Heritage listed area and, of course, the Fiordland National Park. Going to Queenstown, and not going to Milford Sound, is a little like going to Cairo and not bothering to see the Pyramids.

Milford Explorer Recently ranked as the world’s most beautiful place, the Milford Sound is a must-do for those visiting the South Island. The Milford Explorer departs Queenstown early and stops at the picturesque Te Anau township on the lake before heading through the Homer Tunnel into Milford. Once there, you will go on an unforgettable two hour boat cruise through

In the nuddy Naked

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FREE DAY IN QUEENSTOWN the sound exploring soaring peaks, towering waterfalls and New Zealand nature at its best. Your cruise also includes some great kai (food) with a free hot buffet lunch and you can see the marine life up close with free entry to the underwater observatory. In summer there is also the option of spending a few more nights or walking the legendary Milford Track. Provided the weather and bank balance permits you have the option of flying back to Queenstown, otherwise it’s back on the bus to take you back to the adventure capital. If you want to go to a rugby game, then check with your Driver Guide as to when the next big game is on in Dunedin. Bottom Bus runs rugby trips from Queenstown. These start with the Super 15 in February through to the end of the ITM Cup in October. Since it’s the national sport, you’re sure of a good time!

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Remember, for those of you flying out of Christchurch and are running low on cash, don’t forget to save some money for a shuttle to the airport!

whole host of spectacular walking trails A and day hikes Mountain bike rides Frisbee golf in the Queenstown gardens unbathing and swimming in the rather S chilly (refreshing though) Lake Wakatipu

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FREE DAY IN QUEENSTOWN

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FREE DAY IN QUEENSTOWN

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DAY TRIP ONLY

0 7 1 $

Return coach trip Two hour boat cruise Hot buffet lunch Underwater observatory entrance 132

INCLUDES: RETURN COACH, CRUISE, OBSERVATORY ENTRY AND LUNCH INCLUDED.

• A two hour boat cruise through the Fiords out to the Tasman Sea • Views of mirror lakes, mountain vistas, cascading waterfalls and native New Zealand forest • Entry to the Milford Deep Underwater Observatory • A hot buffet lunch • A sleep in - we depart Queenstown between 7:45am and 8:00am and pick up from all central backpacker hostels • Travel on our comfortable modern coach and enjoy informative and amusing commentary from our experienced Driver Guides • Take advantage of our flexible network to hop-on and hop-off in Te Anau Contact us for departure times.

ADDITIONAL OPTIONS.

There are other options for you to choose from if you’re not departing from Queenstown. These include: • Divide > Milford > Queenstown • Te Anau > Milford > Queenstown Ask your Driver Guide for more information and prices on these options, or call us to get your Milford Explorer trip sorted!

MILFORD SOUND

ROUTEBURN TRACK

MILFORD TRACK

TE ANAU

GREENSTONE /CAPLES TRACK

QUEENSTOWN

KEPLER TRACK

Prices are in New Zealand dollars and are valid until 31 March 2013. Standard terms and conditions apply.

Book with your local travel agent, call Milford Explorer (09) 336 4286 or call free from Queenstown 0508 454 341

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BOTTOM BUS - SOUTHLANDER add-on pass as far south as you will ever go...

Queenstown to Dunedin We head towards the east coast via the massive Clyde Dam which holds 33,229,712 billion goldfish bowls of water. First stop in Dunedin is Baldwin Street - the world’s steepest. (Check out the Guinness Book of World Records you non-believers). Walk to the top or stay at the bottom to take a photo of those struggling to the top.

Day 1 Queenstown > Dunedin Day 2 Dunedin > Invercargill Day 3 Invercargill > Milford Sound

> Queenstown

MILFORD SOUND

QUEENSTOWN

TE ANAU INVERCARGILL STEWART ISLAND

DUNEDIN CATLINS CURIO BAY

highlights • Dunedin - New Zealand’s most famous student town • Speight’s Brewery • Cadbury World - chocolate factory tour • Rugby trips • Catlins - wildlife galore • Stewart Island • Southern walking tracks

optional hop-offs • Curio Bay, Catlins • Stewart Island • Te Anau

Bottom Bus - Southlander access to: • Southern walking tracks - Milford, Routeburn, Kepler and Rakiura Track on Stewart Island

In Dunedin hit the famed Speight’s Brewery or Cadbury World for you chocolate freaks. Tough choices! You’ll have to stay a few days maybe. Dunedin is recognised as the most Scottish city outside Kilt-land (Dunedin means Edinburgh in Gaelic). It’s also the wildlife capital of New Zealand. It boasts the only mainland Albatross colony in the world, rare penguins, seals and lots of sharks! There’s also Larnach’s Castle (one of New Zealand’s oldest and most striking buildings), an excellent museum and art gallery, beautiful beaches (one of New Zealand’s surfing meccas) and harbour cruises. Thousands of ‘scarfies’ (university students) live in the inner city studying (occasionally) at the University of Otago.

Happy as a flea on a dog Very happy

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BOTTOM BUS - SOUTHLANDER add-on pass Dunedin is a classic university town. To reach a desired level of academic achievement they must enrich their diet with healthy doses of Speight’s - the local beer which is legendary throughout New Zealand. We recommend you try a drop in one of the many fine pubs, where a lively atmosphere is always guaranteed. Your Driver Guide will point you in the right direction of bars and they’ll also keep you in the know with the frequent events and festivals in the city. We reckon Dunedin is the best place to watch rugby in the world and Bottom Bus puts on trips to all the big games. If you’re lucky you may be able to catch an All Blacks game. Otago (the National Provincial team) and the Highlanders (the Super 15 team) also play in

Dunedin. Your driver will have the details of the next game. Speight’s has a long and colourful history in Dunedin. In 1876, James Speight, along with some mates, set up Speight’s Brewery in Dunedin. Speight’s is the Pride of the South and the brewery is still situated on the same site. The first brew emerged two months before they had even obtained a licence. Speight’s grew to become the largest brewery in New Zealand. It is still one of the most cherished beer brands in the country. And while you’re in Dunedin why not pop to Cadbury World, the tastiest tourist attraction in this part of the world. Not only can you learn all about chocolate, but they have a chocolate

Scarfies

Dunedin students - from the scarfs they wear at the rugby

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BOTTOM BUS - SOUTHLANDER add-on pass fall (i.e., a waterfall of chocolate!). Oompaloompa heaven!

Dunedin to Invercargill Bottom Bus and Kiwi Experience take you to the extremities of New Zealand, top to bottom. The Catlins is probably as far south as you will ever go. Standing on the headland at Curio Bay you can sniff Antarctica - it’s out there baby! From Dunedin we travel on through the Catlins - an area of distinctive ridges clothed in awesome native forest. Headlands with sandy beaches make it as spectacular as any other coastline in the country. The Catlins is also home to some amazing and rare wildlife including Yellow-eyed

penguins, New Zealand sea-lions, Hector’s dolphins and more. The sea-lions that have re-colonised beaches on the Catlins Coast are especially unique, being the rarest member of the seal species left on the planet. Big beastly animals (our largest native mammal) that love to pose for you whilst sunning themselves in the sand dunes. They have swum many hundreds of kilometres from the Sub-Antarctic Islands, so the least you can do is pay them a visit. Our Catlins adventure begins with an awe inspiring panoramic view from Nugget Point - a lighthouse perched atop huge rocks protruding from the crashing seas. Hold on to your kilt though Jimmy, as the southerly wind can sometimes make it seem a lot closer than 4800 kilometres to the South Pole!

A squiz

A look: “Let’s go take a squiz at the penguins”

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BOTTOM BUS - SOUTHLANDER add-on pass The main attractions along the way are subject to the weather, tides and passenger preferences. Our feature stop for the day is a beauty - Curio Bay on the very south coast of the South Island - next stop Antarctica! In summer we have long daylight hours and may crank up the BBQ on the beach. Whilst eating our sausages we can observe the dolphins surfing in the waves, or catch the penguins returning to their nests. In winter the penguin viewing is at its best, even though the weather may not be. Curio Bay has been 180 million years in the making, so best spend some time here. It is our most popular Catlins overnight stay. It has some great hostels or you can put up your tent amongst the flaxes at the camping ground. The amazing fossilised forest was

born from a pre-Jurassic volcanic eruption and we take the time for you to explore this wonder. The rare New Zealand Hector’s dolphins come in close to surf the waves, especially in the summer. We cruise on through to the friendly city of Invercargill where Stewart Island can be spotted on a clear day. We then bunk down with the hospitable folk at Tuatara Backpackers. The Speight’s Ale House next door will look after us if you’re in need of a good feed, a cooling ale or wine.

Invercargill Invercargill is the country’s southernmost city and the capital of Murihiku (the tail end of the land). Invercargill shares Dunedin’s origin as a mainly Scottish city. Its prosperity rests in the grass surrounding the city on the Southland plains. This is ideal food for the livestock. Sheep and dairy farming is big business here.

Stewart Island Te Punga a Maui (Maui’s anchorstone) or Rakiura (glowing skies) Stewart Island is the smallest of New Zealand’s three main islands. It has a hundred times as many feathered kiwi as human ones and also more millionaires per capita than anywhere else in New Zealand - all wearing gumboots and Swandris. Visit Ulva Island - a

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BOTTOM BUS - SOUTHLANDER add-on pass predator free bird haven. Or you can kayak on Paterson inlet. Guided options are available for both. There is a great cruise on the inlet which includes a nature guide on Ulva Island. Ask your Driver Guide for more details. For the blister freaks there are lots of fantastic walks/tramps ranging from 30 minutes to 12 days. Your Driver Guide will assist you with bookings to Stewart Island. There are several scheduled flights and two or three ferry crossings per day. Most people will head over on the early morning ferry or flight. Activities on the Island include cruises, sightseeing trips and tramping options. Drinks and meals of great blue cod, a Stewart Island specialty, can be organised through your Driver Guide.

MILFORD SOUND We head out of Invercargill nice and early so that we can meet up with the Milford Explorer at Five Rivers. The highlights on the journey into Milford Sound include the Homer Tunnel, gigantic waterfalls, the boat cruise through the fiords and a visit to the Underwater Observatory. Lunch is included on this day so sit back and enjoy. The lunch may be free, but it is the majesty and wilderness of Fiordland that is priceless. We then continue on back to Queenstown via Te Anau and the edge of Lake Wakatipu.

OPTIONAL HOP-OFF - Te Anau

Mere-Mere the taniwha (water monster) Mere-Mere the taniwha, was the guardian of Te Rakitauneke, chief of Ngatimoemoe. Mere-Mere lost his master in the hills surrounding Dunedin. The taniwha searched high and low for his master, weaving itself through the hills creating Whare Flat and found its way to what is now Mosgiel. Mere-Mere continued searching through the Taieri Plains following the river past Allanton forming Te Rua-Taniwha (the monsters lair). Exhausted and devastated by the loss of his master, Mere-Mere stretched at full length along the coast of the Taieri Plains, creating the coastal range. Mere-Mere’s head now rests at what is now called Saddle Hill, south of Dunedin. The legend of how Stewart Island was formed The water between the mainland and Stewart Island is known as ‘Te Ara a Kiwa’ or the pathway of Kiwa. Kiwa ordered a whale called Kewa to chew through the narrow section of land which attached Stewart Island to the mainland. He did this so that he could travel by waka (canoe) from point to point. After biting the land Kewa lost some teeth. These teeth transformed into the Solander Islands (which we see off the south coast near McCracken’s Rest). The Solander Islands Maori name is ‘Te Niho a Kewa’ meaning the tooth from the mouth of Kewa.

Te Anau is the gateway to Fiordland National Park and World Heritage Area. For those that want to experience the outdoors at their own pace, the park is home to some of New Zealand’s great walks. These are only open during the summer months and are very popular. See the Department of Conservation Centres for availability and Kiwi Experience or Bottom Bus can help you get to these tracks. 139

BOTTOM BUS - SOUTHLANDER add-on pass

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CHRISTCHURCH city map

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QUEENSTOWN > CHRISTCHURCH We head out of Queenstown, through the Kawarau Gorge and further on up over the Lindis Pass into the MacKenzie Country. This area is named after James MacKenzie, a notorious sheep hustler.

FUNKY CHICKEN TRAVEL Day SIXTEEN KEA TRAVEL Day TEN tranzalpine DOG LEG TRAVEL Day seven QUEENSTOWN > CHRISTCHURCH CHRISTCHURCH

MT.COOK

TEKAPO twiZeL

ASHBURTON GERALDINE

OMARAMA

PEGASUS BAY

CROMWELL

Provided you are travelling on a good weather day, you will get awesome views of Mount Cook, New Zealand’s highest mountain. If you have plenty of time you may wish to hop-off the bus in Twizel. From Twizel there are shuttle buses travelling to and from the Mount Cook National Park. The Cook Connection shuttle will meet the Kiwi bus in Twizel at 12:30pm. Mount Cook is New Zealand’s highest peak at 3,754 metres. The height of Mount Cook changed dramatically in December 1991 when it lost 10 metres off the top. The Maori name for the mountain is ‘Aoraki’ meaning cloud piercer.

QUEENSTOWN

highlights

• Mt Cook • Lake Tekapo • Church of the Good Shepherd • Lindis Pass • Lake Pukaki • Rafting with the crew at Rangitata Rafts (optional) • Lake Dunstan • MacKenzie Country

optional hop-offs • Cromwell • Twizel • Lake Tekapo • Geraldine (for Rangitata Rafts) • Ashburton

Puckerooed

Totally tired as in buggered

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QUEENSTOWN > CHRISTCHURCH There are 22 mountains that are over 3050 metres high in this area. The Tasman Glacier is also here. At 27 kilometres in length, and three kilometres wide in parts, this is the largest glacier in the world outside of the Himalayan region. In the 1880’s William Green, a young Irish clergyman and climber from the London Climbing Club, was attracted by photos of the yet untamed peak of Mt. Cook. Two Swiss climbers joined him in 1882 to make their attempt up the mount. They were not far from the summit when the weather turned bad. They were forced to turn back and were beaten to the top by a couple of West Coast farmers - what happened to the luck of the Irish?! The Mount Cook National Park is New Zealand’s highest alpine region. Only three of its peaks aren’t over 3000 metres.

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After dropping people in Twizel for the connection to Mt Cook, we travel through to the amazing aqua blue Lake Pukaki. If you are after some high adrenaline action, the Rangitata River is undoubtedly one of New Zealand’s most exciting stretches of water for white water rafting. Connect up with Rangitata Rafts transport around 3:30pm at Geraldine. It is here you will meet Tussock and crew, your expert river guides. A night’s accommodation and breakfast, lunch and a BBQ are included in the price. You’ll need to stay the night, but the crew at Rangitata will drop you into Christchurch the next day. Now we have a straight run into Christchurch. Christchurch is the largest city in the South Island and the second largest in New Zealand with a population of approximately 400,000. The city was settled early last century by the Anglicans from England. Hagley Park in the

QUEENSTOWN > CHRISTCHURCH city centre is the world’s third largest central park behind Central Park, New York and Stanley Park, Vancouver. In February 2011, Christchurch suffered a 6.3 magnitude earthquake which it is currently in the process of rebuilding from. While sadly many of its beautiful old Neo-gothic buildings, including the iconic Christchurch Cathedral, were severely damaged in the quake, the surrounding areas still offer plenty to see and do if you want to get off the bus and stay the night.

Hassle-free Tours offer 4WD and jet boating adventures departing daily from Christchurch. For ‘Lord of the Rings’ fans they also offer an excellent full day ‘Lord of the Rings’ Tour. Ask your Driver Guide for more details on available activities and accommodation.

Black Cat Cruises have a great selection of scenic, wild life viewing and dolphin swimming options available departing from Christchurch to either Lyttleton Harbour or Akaroa Harbour, a former French settlement with the world’s deepest natural harbour. Both harbours are beautiful and well worth the visit.

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CHRISTCHURCH > KAIKOURA FUNKY CHICKEN TRAVEL Day SEVENTEEN KEA TRAVEL Day one and ELEVEN tranzalpine DOG LEG TRAVEL Day eight CHRISTCHURCH > KAIKOURA KAIKOURA

CHEVIOT PEGASUS BAY

CHRISTCHURCH

highlights

• Swimming with seals and dolphins • Whale watching

This afternoon, we meet up with the bus that’s travelled through from Queenstown before heading north across the Canterbury Plains to Kaikoura. As we arrive late in the day and leave the following morning, you can get off and spend an extra day and night to take advantage of the awe-inspiring activities Kaikoura has to offer. There are two major activities here. One is with Dolphin Encounters where you can either swim with or watch the very acrobatic Dusky dolphins from the Dolphin Encounters boat. They generally average about 300 per pod, but they have been known to have 1000 at one time! The other major attraction in Kaikoura is whale watching. This is run by the local Ngai Tahu Iwi. The expedition generally has you spotting several of these great creatures as they surface for air. They then make the great dive back down to the bottom of the ocean. Kaikoura used to be the South Island’s best kept secret but something this good can’t be kept hidden for long. Kaikoura means to eat crayfish (kai - to eat, koura - crayfish). Actually, the full name is Te-Ahi-kai-koura-a-Tama-kite-rangi (or Tamatea-pokai-whenua), meaning this great traveller stayed here and lit a fire to cook a meal of crayfish. These days the crayfish are still awesome, but it’s the whales, dolphins, seals, and the fish and chips, that Kaikoura is so popular for. The township of Kaikoura juts out from under the shadow of the seaward Kaikoura Range. The peninsula boasts unforgettable snow clad mountains rising from the sea to tower above the township at heights of over 2,600 metres. Fishermen’s cottages, boats and boat-houses huddle along the more exposed southerly coastline today.

Stoked

Very happy chappy

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CHRISTCHURCH > KAIKOURA

T he crew at Top Spot can take you out to swim with seals on the Peninsula Walk around the Kaikoura Peninsula to the seal colony Climb Mt Fyfe in the Kaikoura ranges - a challenging all day walk. Make sure you are prepared with plenty of water, and clothing.

Remember to pay for your ferry ticket at Top Spot tonight if travelling on the northbound ferry tomorrow. Specify what day you are travelling or you may find yourself paying full price at the ferry terminal.

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Whale Watching Kaikoura's semi resident sperm whales, equivalent in size to four elephants, are the biggest of the toothed whales and the largest carnivores on earth! Each of their teeth can weigh more than a kilogram and grow to 20 centimetres long. Sperm whales are expert divers and frequently dive two kilometres or more into the dark abyss of the Kaikoura Canyon hunting prey such as the infamous â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Giant Squidâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;. Many of Kaikoura's sperm whales wear battle scars from close encounters with these monsters of the deep. The giant sperm whales are the stars of the show and year-round residents. Although sperm whale sightings vary, every single trip is a truly unique experience. In addition to the magnificent sperms whales, on a typical tour you may also encounter New Zealand fur seals, pods of Dusky dolphins and the rare and endangered Wandering albatross. Depending on the time of year you may also see migrating Humpback whales, Pilot whales, Blue whales and Southern right whales. Kaikoura often hosts the world's largest dolphin - the Orca (Killer whale) and is home to the world's smallest and rarest dolphin, the Hector's dolphin. Kaikoura also attracts the largest concentration and variety of seabirds on mainland New Zealand including 13 species of albatross, 14 varieties of petrels and seven types of shearwater.

KAIKOURA > PICTON + WELLINGTON OR kaiteriteri FUNKY CHICKEN TRAVEL Day EIGHTEEN KEA TRAVEL Day TWO AND TWELVE TRANZALPINE DOG LEG TRAVEL Day NINE KAIKOURA > PICTON AND WELLINGTON OR KAITERITERI fer

PICTON

WELLINGTON

We head north, taking in the last of the dramatic Kaikoura coastline. It’s a spectacular drive. We may even take the opportunity to stop for a closer look at the seals at Ohau Point. These creatures like to lie about on the rocks all day long, only leaving to get something to eat. Once on the road again we pass Lake Grassmere. There is a large salt works plant on your right. It is a solar salt works plant, which operates on a pretty basic principle. Seawater is channelled into shallow ponds and evaporates in the sun, leaving behind salt;

BLENHEIM

PEGASUS BAY

KAIKOURA

highlights

• Ohau Point seal colony • Marlborough region • Ferry journey across the Cook Strait • Lake Grassmere • Wellington hightlights (see Wellington section for details)

optional hop-offs • Blenheim • Picton

A dumb-bum A fool

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KAIKOURA > PICTON + WELLINGTON OR KAITERITERI no wonder it is so cheap to buy. At certain times of the year the ponds will look pink, which is nothing to do with the salt exploring its feminine side, but more to do with the millions of tiny brine shrimps that thrive in the saline water.

For those flying to Wellington, we drop you off at Picton airport. The rest of us make our way to the Picton ferry terminal in time to catch the 1:10pm sailing. Say farewell to the South Island (Te Wai Pounamu) and weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re on our way!

Blenheim, the principal centre of Marlborough, is the next major port of call. This area basks in an unequalled quota of sunshine throughout the year. Abundant sunshine hours, combined with specific soil conditions, have assisted Marlborough in establishing itself as a prominent wine producing region. Picton is a quaint little town settled at the head of Queen Charlotte Sound. It has access to the walking trail that runs from one end of the sound to the other.

The ferry ride takes about three hours. You will then be met and whisked off to your hostels.

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For anyone continuing on to Kaiteriteri, your Driver Guide will meet you at the ferry terminal in Picton. They will arrange accommodation for you in Kaiteriteri. Refer to the Wellington to Picton and Kaiteriteri section of this guide book.

WELLINGTON > TAUPO highlights

FUNKY CHICKEN TRAVEL Day NINETEEN

• Kapiti Coast • Tongariro National Park - ‘Lord of the Rings’ Mt Doom • Lake Taupo • Freefall Skydive

KEA TRAVEL Day THIRTEEN TRANZALPINE DOG LEG TRAVEL Day TEN

We’ve got quite a distance to cover today so we leave Wellington at 8:00am to beat the rush hour traffic. Not too far out of Wellington we come out onto the stunning Kapiti coast. This coast is chocka full of beautiful beaches and small commuter towns. If you are keen to get out to Kapiti Island native bird sanctuary, jump off at Paraparaumu for the connection.

WELLINGTON > TAUPO

The next stop is Taihape where we drop off and pick up people for River Valley (only about $20 for the transfer). The horse trekking and rafting trips are among the best in the country. The lodge, in its isolated river location, is an excellent place to chill and relax. Make sure you take any food you may need in with you, because there’s nothing there except an excellent cafe. Departing Taihape we make the climb up to the Central Plateau, home of the Tongariro National Park. For access to the National Park, we can drop you off in the township of Turangi. From there it’s just a short drive around the great lake to Taupo. For those wishing to skydive, we’ll drop you off at the airport. Then we briefly stop to take a look at the famous Huka Falls. We aim to get you to your accommodation at approximately 2:30pm.

optional hop-offs • Kapiti Coast • Levin • Bulls (yep, Bulls) • Taihape (River Valley - return transfers optional extra) • Turangi

Remember to book your accommodation for Taupo and Rotorua as you head north - ask your Driver Guide for assistance if you need to. Gumboots

Rubber boots/Wellingtons

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TAUPO > ROTORUA > AUCKLAND FUNKY CHICKEN TRAVEL Day TWENTY KEA TRAVEL Day FOURTEEN & FIFTEEN tranzalpine DOG LEG TRAVEL Day eleven & Twelve TAUPO > ROTORUA > AUCKLAND

Our first stop today is Rotorua. If you started your pass in Christchurch we highly recommend you take the time to hop-off the bus here and explore. You can join up with the southbound bus for the night and get out to the Tamaki Tours Maori hangi and concert. You can also head up Mount Ngongotaha to tackle the luge, experience Zorbing or challenge yourself in the Kaituna River, rafting/sledging over a seven metre waterfall.

WAITOMO WANDERER For those of you travelling up the North Island for the first time, take this opportunity to hop-off the bus in Taupo or Rotorua and travel across to Waitomo with Waitomo Wanderer. You can do a day trip across or stay over as long as you like. The highlight of a trip to Waitomo is the great selection of adventure caving activities with glowworms that are on offer. Your Driver Guide can arrange this for you.

AUCKLAND

MATAMATA

ROTORUA WAITOMO

LAKE TAUPO

TAUPO

highlights

• Rotorua • Geothermal wonderland • Hauraki Plains • The big smoke - Auckland

optional hop-offs • Rotorua • Matamata

Aftermatch function

A drinking session after a sporting event

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TAUPO > ROTORUA > AUCKLAND The service will transport you out to Waitomo where you can get stuck into the Legendary Black Water Rafting Co with Black Abyss or Black Labyrinth trips, or you could try a walking tour through the Ruakuri Cave. If you are afraid of the dark, simply explore the walking tracks in the area. In the afternoon you may choose to stay the night, or return to Rotorua or Taupo. You need to ring the Kiwi Experience office to book yourself on the bus from Taupo or Rotorua to Auckland.

For those finishing your travels with us today, we wish you the very best and hope you had a great Kiwi Experience! If you have a few days in Auckland to spare, why not head on up to the Bay of Islands and the winterless north. If you havenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t got a ticket just chat to your Driver Guide and they can sort this out for you.

For more information on the Bay of Islands, refer to the front of the guide book.

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KIWI EXPERIENCE â&#x20AC;&#x153;SWEET ASâ&#x20AC;? GEAR

Kiwi Experience gear at its best - T-shirts, singlets and jerseys with wicked New Zealand designs. Styles, colours, and items are unique to Kiwi Experience and often changing. They regularly sell out too so first in, best dressed! Latest designs are now available online at www.kiwiexperience.com just click to get your

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Kiwi style rolling. We also make gear available in our Auckland office (85 Beach Road, Auckland City) or from your Driver Guide. You can get Kiwi merchandise at the end of your trip to remember it by, but most passengers get something before they start and make it part of their trip.

KIWI EXPERIENCE “SWEET AS” GEAR

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PUZZLE ANSWERS

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KIWI COOKING CORNER With it’s 90-year history of popularity and success, the good old Edmonds Cookery Book soon secured a place in nearly every Kiwi household and became a true Kiwi icon. It all started in Lyttelton, when 20 year old Thomas J Edmonds developed his own baking powder because he had so many dissatisfied customers coming into his grocery store complaining about the unreliability of the baking powder that was sold back then. His baking powder, he told his customers, was “sure to rise”. Try some of these recipes below for a taste of some real Kiwi tucker. If you want even more great Kiwi recipes, pick up a copy from your local bookshop to take a taste of Kiwi home with you.

pavlova 3 egg whites 3 tablespoons cold water 1 cup caster sugar 1 teaspoon vinegar 1 teaspoon vanilla essence 3 teaspoons cornflour

Preheat oven to 150ºC. Using an electric mixer, beat egg whites until stiff. Add water and beat again. Add sugar very gradually while still beating. Slow beater and add vinegar, vanilla and cornflour. Line an oven tray with baking paper. Draw a 22cm circle on the baking paper. Spread the pavlova to within 2cm of the edge of the circle, keeping the shape as round and even as possible. Smooth top surface over. Bake pavlova for 45min, then leave to cool in the oven. Carefully lift pavlova onto a serving plate. Decorate with whipped cream and fresh fruit. (Kiwifruit and strawberries are best we reckon!) Serves 6.

whitebait fritters 1 cup flour 1/2 teaspoon baking powder 1/2 teaspoon salt 1 egg 1/2 cup milk, approx 125g whitebait oil for shallow frying lemon wedges

Sift flour, baking powder and salt into a bowl. Add egg and sufficient milk to mix to a smooth batter. Drain whitebait well. Stir in whitebait. Coat well with egg mixture. Heat oil in a large frying pan. Add fritters and cook until golden on both sides. Drain on absorbent paper. Serve with lemon. (Yum!!!!!) Serves 4-6.

hokey pokey

Put sugar and golden syrup into a saucepan. Heat gently, stirring constantly until sugar dissolves. Increase the heat and bring to the boil. Boil for 2 minutes. Stir occasionally, if necessary, to prevent burning. Remove from heat. Add baking soda. Stir quickly until mixture froths up. Pour into a buttered tin immediately. Leave until cold and hard. Break into pieces. (Making this is a bit like a science experiment... give it a go).

5 tablespoons sugar 2 tablespoons golden syrup 1 teaspoon baking soda

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ONE TO FIVE DAY WALKS AROUND NEW ZEALAND In addition to the shorter walks included in our daily itinerary there are many fantastic full day, overnight and one to five day walking tracks throughout New Zealand. A great way to really explore New Zealand on a tight budget is to get amongst the outdoors and check out some of the overnight walking tracks throughout our National Parks.

Day Hikes in Franz Josef

The Tongariro Crossing

Alex Knob Track

A great option on your free day in Taupo. Challenge yourself and experience one of the best one day walks in the world. This 17 kilometre walk (allow 8 hours) provides an opportunity to pass over varied and spectacular volcanic terrain. A cold mountain spring, emerald coloured crater lakes, hot springs and an active crater makes this a very memorable trip. Your Driver Guide can arrange return transport for you with Tongariro Expeditions.

A steady climb from the lowlands through sub- alpine scrub with superb views of the glacier, mountains and sea along the way.

Abel Tasman National Park This park offers many walks from 40 minutes through to three to five days. You can even kayak or sail to the places the track doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t reach. It features loads of beautiful golden beaches, waterfalls, tranquil inlets and dramatic views as well as some beautiful wildlife. Your Driver Guide can arrange kayaking and water taxi packages for you with Kaiteriteri Kayaks and Abel Tasman Water Taxi. Alternatively you can book your own transport and walk independently by contacting the Nelson Department of Conservation office or the DOC website www.doc.govt.nz

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Take the time to hop-off the bus and spend a few extra days in Franz Josef, situated in Westland National Park. In addition to the highly rated full day guided walks on the glacier, you may wish to explore more of the surrounding rainforest walks on offer.

Milford Track This is a four day, 53.3 kilometre track starting from Lake Te Anau and finishing at Sandfly Point (20 minutes by boat from Milford Sound). Hike through breathtaking alpine scenery and past the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fifth highest waterfall, Sutherland Falls. Accommodation comprises of three nights in huts. No camping allowed.

Routeburn Track A three day, 33 kilometre track. The track can be walked in either direction, from the Divide Shelter on the Milford Road to the Routeburn Shelter at the Queenstown end or vice versa. The track takes you through beech forest and past numerous mountain lakes and waterfalls. Accommodation is in huts along the way. The track features an abundance of mountain lakes and waterfalls. The climax of the Routeburn Track is the ascent of the Harris Saddle.

ONE TO FIVE DAY WALKS AROUND NEW ZEALAND Kepler Track

Stewart Island

A four day, 67 kilometre loop track. It’s a difficult but rewarding hike in the Fiordland region involving long, tiresome days. Significant features include snow fed rivers, alpine scenery and the Dart Glacier. Accommodation is available in huts along the way or camping is free.

The island has various walking tracks that offer a great chance to see kiwis in the wild. There is the three day Rakiura Track through virgin Podocarp forest or for the more hardy there is the eight to ten day Northwest circuit that takes you to remote parts of the Island. Ask your Bottom Bus Driver Guide for more information on getting to Stewart Island.

Greenstone and Caples Track Two less demanding hikes that are predominantly valley walks. Combine the two tracks in four to five days. Link either track to the Routeburn or explore each one separately in three days. Free camping is allowed or huts are available along the way.

Tuatapere Hump Ridge Track New Zealand’s new frontier in tramping experiences. A new track in South West Fiordland. Climb 1000 metres on to the Hump Ridge. Complete the loop along an old logging tramway across giant wooden viaducts. A challenging walk combining coastal, sub alpine and bush scenery that is open November to April. There are brand new huts along this track with stunning facilities. Minimum three days, two nights. Transport from Tuatapere to the track starts at Bluecliffs and is daily during the summer months.

Be well prepared... Overnight hiking trips are generally only suitable from October through the summer months. All people considering the option of walking a track must be aware that they will have to carry their own food, cooking equipment, clothing and sleeping bags. These tracks are predominately situated in an alpine environment and therefore you should be equipped for cold conditions at any time of the year. Waterproof clothing is an essential item to be carried at all times. The Milford, Routeburn and Kepler tracks are world renowned ‘Great Walks’. Their huts have flushing toilets, running water, gas, mattresses and fuel for heating purposes. On the remaining tracks, the majority of huts provide all the above facilities except for gas. It is important to note that the Milford, Kepler and Routeburn Tracks must be booked in advance as only a limited number of people per day are allowed on to the tracks. Contact the Department of Conservation for more information. www.doc.govt.nz

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MOUNTAIN BIKING AROUND NEW ZEALAND Throughout New Zealand there are many scenic and enjoyable mountain biking tracks suitable for the beginner to those looking for a challenging ride. Don’t worry if you haven’t got your own bike on the bus with you - there are bikes available to hire in many of the locations we pass through. Talk to staff in bike shops for more detailed information and maps of the local area. Helmets are compulsory by law in New Zealand regardless of road or trail riding - just put it on your noggin!

Bay of Islands Waitangi Forest

From Paihia head to Waitangi and up towards the Waitangi Golf Course. Take Te Wairoa Road which continues through the Rayonier forest to the small township of Kerikeri. Approximately 25 kilometres.

Auckland

Waiheke Island Only a 30 minute ferry ride from Auckland, Waiheke has a great loop-track around the eastern part of the island. Ask for a map at the ferry terminal.

Woodhill Forest 50 kilometres of trails running through an exotic forest with sandy base makes for excellent riding even in wet conditions. Loads of purpose built jumps and challenging structures.

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Rotorua Three kilometres south of Rotorua on Highway 5, turn left onto Waipa State Mill Road. 200 metres up on left you will find a car park and entrance to the trails. Make sure you get a map from the info centre before you leave town! You’ll find some of New Zealand’s best purpose-built mountain biking in the Whakarewarewa Forest. Offering a variety of tracks for beginners to the extreme riders. For bike hires and/or guided tours contact Planet Bike Ltd, phone: 027 280 2817 or email ride@planetbike.co.nz

Taupo

Aratiatia dam track Head north out of Taupo following signs to the Huka Falls and after crossing the bridge you will come across the start of the Aratiatia dam track. This track follows the river down to the dam itself where you can turn right and back to Taupo.

Craters of the Moon Popular with Taupo riders as close to town and loads of curly tracks. From the lake front at Taupo head north on State Highway 1 for five and a half kilometres, then turn left onto Karapiti Road (opposite helicopter). All grades, one to four hours, mixture of gravel roads and 4WD and single track. For those truly mad mountain bikers, get off the bus for a couple of nights in the national park area and try the ‘42nd Traverse’. You won’t be disappointed! Do take extra clothing, food and liquids, plus a map!

MOUNTAIN BIKING AROUND NEW ZEALAND Wellington

Queenstown

East of Wellington city you’ll see Mt Victoria. Well-used by both cyclists and walkers, there’s several routes up to the top from where you’ll get great views of the city. 70% single track, up to 8 kilometres of fun.

Guided Downhill Mountain Biking. Gravity Action cater for riders of all abilities with a choice of challenging single track to the easy Fireroad in spectacular Skippers Canyon. Join their experienced guides for a downhill experience deep into the canyon, on a full suspension mountain bike. After two exhilarating runs of your choice, you have the option of heli-ing out, rafting down the famous Shotover River or taking the 4x4 drive up the historic Skippers Road.

Nelson

The Hira Forest 2 kilometres east of Nelson (ride out on Nile Street) is a good choice, offering some grade 2-4 rides. The popular 35 kilometres Pelorus to Nelson Track starts at the end of Maungatapu Road. For those after a more challenging cycle you’ll find it at Fringed Hill, at the bottom of the Dun Mountain Walkway. After a steep 700 metre climb you’ll be rewarded with the best views and then choose from three tracks back down - but beware, all of these can be treacherous in wet conditions.

West Coast Stay overnight in Hokitika (before the Mahinapua Hotel) and choose from a number of cycle tracks. Try the 25 kilometre loop track south-east of the town named the ‘Rimu Circuit’. Mainly on gravel road, this track is a good opportunity to explore Wanaka. From the township ride out to Waterfall Creek and join the single track that takes you to the reserve about 15 kilometres return.

Deep South There are some legendary tracks down South including Whare Flat forest in Dunedin, Sandy Point in Invercargill and Stewart Island has some great off trail stuff to grapple with too. The Central Otago Rail Trail is also a good option following a very scenic old rail route. Allow two to four days and start in Middlemarch. Trains depart daily from the Dunedin railway station to Middlemarch.

Christchurch Bottle Lake Forest, just outside of Christchurch, is a popular area for cycling and tramping especially for night-riding if you’re keen to try something a bit different. Approximately 30 kilometres return, this ride will take about two hours and is a nice leisurely cycle that allows you to explore the city’s outskirts.

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SURFING AROUND NEW ZEALAND New Zealand’s coastal surf is its best kept secret. Our country is made up of three main islands (North, South and Stewart), and because we are so small our weather can change quickly as weather patterns move across the country - the climate could best be described as temperate. The islands lie perpendicular to the prevailing Westerlies of the 34-46˚ S altitude the country spans, thus the West Coast receives more consistent swells than the East Coast, although locals of Gisborne would suggest otherwise.

Warkworth, the east-facing beach of Pakiri offers a selection of waves which may be best described as short hollow beach breaks.

Auckland

For the travelling surfer, board shorts and a sleeveless wetsuit vest are adequate protection on the warmest days of summer but during spring and autumn a spring suit is advisable.

The city lies between two harbours. Manukau to the west and Waitemata to the east - both coasts being easily accessible from the city. The West Coast surf is by far the more reliable of the two with the east sheltered by nearby islands. Only rarely will you find a wave on the reefs of Milford and Takapuna or on the East Coast beaches. On the West Coast however there are a number of choices and the beaches offer surf all year round. If you’re looking for a surf school or tour, check out www.newzealandsurftours.com. These guys really know their stuff and all their packages will feed your soul with surf and adventure.

Board length

Muriwai

Anything between six and seven foot will fit in the back of coaches comfortably.

Approximately 40 minutes from Auckland, great waves are located all along the beach with the swell from all directions.

Gear

Accommodation In the summer this is best enjoyed in the outdoors - camping grounds and hostels are available at almost all major surf breaks (ask your Driver Guide for the most up-to-date info on surfing New Zealand).

Northland Known locally as the winterless North, this area enjoys a sub-tropical climate with ideal waters for fishing and diving, as well as some great surf. Amongst the best spots are the Bluff on 90 Mile Beach in the Far North, Shipwreck Bay near Kaitaia, and Sandy Bay - a popular spot for Whangarei surfers. Further south near

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Piha Just 35 kilometres south west of the city, this popular beach is renowned for its consistent surf including left and righthanders, and given the right conditions a 50 metre long barrel.

RAGLAN Raglan is famous for its beaches and surf schools, and hosts loads of surfing competitions. It features black sand with one of the world’s best left-hand surf breaks at Manu Bay, Whale Bay and the Indicators.

SURFING AROUND NEW ZEALAND Coromandel

Punakaiki

A favourite with New Zealanders over the summer, there are a number of accessible breaks to choose from here. Mainly beach breaks, there is also a righthand break here, best on half to full incoming tides.

Waves can be found all along this coast as far south as Greymouth with the best break located at Nine Mile - a left-hand reef beach break. Continuing down the coast, beach breaks can be found off the coast of Greymouth and Hokitika, and the beautiful beach of Okarito is a perfect surf spot given the right conditions - avoid it in big swells.

Whangamata

Christchurch

Hot Water Beach

With a good swell, banks form here and the beach is one of New Zealand’s best known surf spots, and has been since the 1960s. Choose from the Whangamata Bar (lefthander), the Beach Break or the Southern Estuary break.

Waihi Beach 11 kilometres east of the town, good for surfing on smaller swells with the two extreme ends of the beach offering the best spots.

Gisborne Jump off the main circuit bus in Taupo and join our East As trip around the East Cape. There are good waves around the Cape itself and the East and South facing coasts of Gisborne also offer a variety of heavy reef beach breaks. The most famous of those is perhaps located in Hicks Bay where you will find hollow, fast breaking beach breaks. Nearby Tologa Bay and Tokomaru Bay also boast good waves and are worth a look if you are in the area.

At Sumner there are two choices of surf; the mouth of the estuary or at the main beach. There’s right and left-handers at the river mouth and the beach is best surfed in big swells. A better beach break located around from Sumner Head is called Taylor’s Mistake. Waves break here on all tides.

Otago and Southland\Dunedin In spite of its icy winter conditions, this has been described as a surfing ‘paradise’. Head for the beach at St Clair and check out nearby beaches for some good waves and less crowds. Beach breaks can also be found at nearby Blackhead and Brighton. For a ‘big gun’ then check out the breaks near Riverton - Porridge being the best known. In late September/October, the Big Wave competitors chase the biggest breaks along the South coast from the Catlins to Riverton.

Westport In addition to its several surf breaks, the town has one freshwater break in the Buller River on which it is situated.

Tauranga Bay South of Westport, this beach with its left-hand break hosts a national surfing competition annually.

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Kiwi EXPERIENCE NATIONAL PASSES - START ANYWHERE Our minimum travel time includes two nights in Taupo, Franz Josef and Queenstown, and one night elsewhere. Minimum travel times are timetable dependent. Check out our timetables at www.kiwiexperience.com to plan your travel dates.

Rangi Rangi

The Full Monty Minimum travel time 33 days

Minimum travel time 22 days

Start anywhere Finish where you started

STANDARD

YHA/ISIC/VIP /NOMADS

PAIHIA

AUCKLAND

NZ$1375

NZ$2199

WAITOMO TAUPO

NZ$1195

NZ$2060

RIVER VALLEY KAITERITERI

WELLINGTON

WESTPORT LAKE MAHINAPUA FRANZ JOSEF

OUR “ do-it-all” pass

The Whole Kit & Caboodle

CHRISTCHURCH

QUEENSTOWN

Funky Chicken Funky Chicken Minimum travel time 20 days

Start anywhere Finish where you started

STANDARD

YHA/ISIC/VIP /NOMADS

NZ$1675

AUCKLAND

HOT WATER BEACH ROTORUA

NZ$1299

WAITOMO TAUPO RIVER VALLEY

NZ$1099

KAITERITERI WESTPORT LAKE MAHINAPUA FRANZ JOSEF WANAKA QUEENSTOWN

KEY:

KAIKOURA

WANAKA

Minimum travel time 27 days

NZ$1850

HOT WATER BEACH ROTORUA

Once you have completed your pass in full, you can go around again, and again, for 12 months!

See terms and conditions for more information on unlimited travel.

NOTE: Prices are valid until 31 March 2013. Standard terms and conditions apply. 164

WELLINGTON KAIKOURA CHRISTCHURCH

Kiwi EXPERIENCE NATIONAL PASSES - START AUCKLAND Our minimum travel time includes two nights in Taupo, Franz Josef and Queenstown, and one night elsewhere. Minimum travel times are timetable dependent. Check out our timetables at www.kiwiexperience.com to plan your travel dates.

Zephyr Zephyr

Kitchen Sink Minimum travel time 23 days

Minimum travel time 18 days

Start Auckland Finish Christchurch

STANDARD

YHA/ISIC/VIP /NOMADS

PAIHIA

AUCKLAND

NZ$1075

NZ$1599

WAITOMO TAUPO

NZ$945

NZ$1495

HOT WATER BEACH ROTORUA

RIVER VALLEY KAITERITERI

WELLINGTON

WESTPORT LAKE MAHINAPUA FRANZ JOSEF

CHRISTCHURCH

WANAKA QUEENSTOWN

Sheepdog Sheepdog

Joint Mullets Joint Mullets

Minimum travel time 16 days

Minimum travel time 20 days Start Auckland Finish Christchurch

AUCKLAND

STANDARD

WAITOMO TAUPO

NZ$1375 YHA/ISIC/VIP /NOMADS

HOT WATER BEACH RANGITUKIA ROTORUA TE KAHA

RIVER VALLEY

NZ$1235

KAITERITERI WESTPORT

GISBORNE

Start Auckland Finish Christchurch

HOT WATER BEACH ROTORUA

STANDARD

WAITOMO TAUPO

NZ$999 YHA/ISIC/VIP /NOMADS

RIVER VALLEY

NZ$855

KAITERITERI

WELLINGTON

LAKE MAHINAPUA

AUCKLAND

WESTPORT

WELLINGTON

LAKE MAHINAPUA

FRANZ JOSEF

CHRISTCHURCH

WANAKA

FRANZ JOSEF

CHRISTCHURCH

WANAKA QUEENSTOWN

QUEENSTOWN

KEY: NOTE: Prices are valid until 31 March 2013. Standard terms and conditions apply. 165

Kiwi EXPERIENCE NATIONAL PASSES - START CHRISTCHURCH Our minimum travel time includes two nights in Taupo, Franz Josef and Queenstown, and one night elsewhere. Minimum travel times are timetable dependent. Check out our timetables at www.kiwiexperience.com to plan your travel dates.

Top Dog

TranzAlpine Dog Leg

Toptravel Dogtime Minimum

Dog Leg

Minimum travel time 12 days

19 days

Start Christchurch Finish Auckland

PAIHIA

Travel by train from Christchurch to Greymouth.

AUCKLAND

STANDARD

NZ$1150

ROTORUA

WAITOMO TAUPO

STANDARD

RIVER VALLEY

YHA/ISIC/VIP /NOMADS

NZ$1019 KAITERITERI

RIVER VALLEY

NZ$875

WELLINGTON GREYMOUTH LAKE MAHINAPUA

KAIKOURA

FRANZ JOSEF

TAUPO

NZ$1050

WELLINGTON

WESTPORT LAKE MAHINAPUA

FRANZ JOSEF

CHRISTCHURCH

WANAKA

QUEENSTOWN

Kea Kea Minimum travel time 15 days Start Christchurch Finish Auckland

AUCKLAND ROTORUA

STANDARD

NZ$999

TAUPO

YHA/ISIC/VIP /NOMADS

NZ$855

KAITERITERI WESTPORT LAKE MAHINAPUA FRANZ JOSEF

WELLINGTON KAIKOURA CHRISTCHURCH

WANAKA QUEENSTOWN

NOTE: Prices are valid until 31 March 2013. Standard terms and conditions apply. 166

AUCKLAND

ROTORUA

KAIKOURA CHRISTCHURCH

Kiwi EXPERIENCE REGIONAL PASSES - NORTH ISLAND PASSES Our minimum travel time for North Island passes include two nights in Taupo, and one night elsewhere. Minimum travel times are timetable dependent. Check out our timetables at www.kiwiexperience.com to plan your travel dates.

Northern RoundUp Up Northern Round

East As

Minimum travel time 9 days

Minimum travel time 4 days

Start anywhere in the North Island Finish where you started

Start Taupo/Rotorua Finish Taupo/Rotorua NZ$435

AUCKLAND

NZ$629

RANGITUKIA TE KAHA

HOT WATER BEACH ROTORUA

ROTORUA

WAITOMO TAUPO

TAUPO

GISBORNE

RIVER VALLEY WELLINGTON

erland & Lake

Geyserland & Lake

Bay of Islands

Minimum travel time 6 days

Minimum travel time 2 days (Awesome) 1 day (Top Bit) 3 days (Awesome & Top Bit)

Start Auckland Finish Auckland NZ$370

AUCKLAND

HOT WATER BEACH ROTORUA

WAITOMO TAUPO

Pass Guidelines Awesome: Auckland to Paihia Return Top Bit: Cape Reinga Day Trip Awesome & Top Bit: CAPE REINGA Both passes combined Timings are timetable dependant AWESOME

PAIHIA

NZ$109 TOP BIT

NZ$109 AWESOME + TOP BIT

AUCKLAND

NZ$215

NOTE: Prices are valid until 31 March 2013. Standard terms and conditions apply. 167

Southern Round Up PASSES Kiwi EXPERIENCE REGIONAL - SOUTH ISLAND PASSES Our minimum travel time for South Island passes include two nights in Franz Josef and Queenstown, and one night elsewhere. Minimum travel times are timetable dependent. Check out our timetables at www.kiwiexperience.com to plan your travel dates.

Southlander - Bottom Bus

Southern Round Up Minimum travel time 10 days

Minimum travel time 3 days

Start anywhere in the South Island Finish where you started

Start Queenstown Finish Queenstown

NZ$699

NZ$435

KAITERITERI

WESTPORT

MAHINAPUA BackLAKEPaddock FRANZ JOSEF

KAIKOURA CHRISTCHURCH

WANAKA QUEENSTOWN

TranzAlpine Back Paddock

Milford Explorer

Minimum travel time 7 days

Minimum travel time 1 day

Start Christchurch Finish Christchurch

Start Queenstown Finish Queenstown

Travel by train from Christchurch to Greymouth.

GREYMOUTH LAKE MAHINAPUA

NZ$699

FRANZ JOSEF

NZ$170

CHRISTCHURCH

WANAKA QUEENSTOWN

Includes hot buffet lunch

Map key Kiwi Experience route Scheduled overnight stop - guaranteed accommodation when you arrive Other cool stops, feel free to jump off!

TranzAlpine journey

NOTE: Prices are valid until 31 March 2013. Standard terms and conditions apply. 168

TIPS FOR TRAVELLING WITH US • Y our Kiwi Experience ticket covers all land travel, unique inclusions, an abundance of nature walks and a daily commentary. • The Cook Strait Ferry between the North and South Island is not included in your pass but you can book this through your Driver Guide. • A ll Milford Sound passes include a two hour cruise in the ticket price. • W e use coaches that have stereos, DVD players and heaps of space for your bags, bikes, surfboards and musical instruments (pianos must have a tow bar). Let us know what you have with you when you make your bus booking. • We take the hassle out of finding accommodation. Our Driver Guides will book a bed for you at our overnight stops. The prices of the places that we stay range from around $21 to $30 per night for a dorm bed. • W e reserve spaces on the popular activities that you may want to do and can save you money with Kiwi Experience discounts. • N ew Zealand is the adventure capital of the world! To ensure you have enough money to experience the awesome range of activities on offer, cook your own meals

GET AMONGST IT!

or join our group meals and cut back on the booze intake. • Y ou never feel pressured because where there’s a paying activity there’s usually a free alternative. • W e have done our very best putting this guide together but in the ever changing dynamic New Zealand backpacker industry, things change and some of the information provided maybe out of date by the time you read this. • A lso remember that this is a guide book. Your Driver Guide is the one who determines just where the big green bus goes on any given day. Mainly because they have the keys, but also because they are experts and are often called upon to make judgment calls based on things like weather conditions or working around a major event. • We feel the best way to learn about our country is by getting you out there and into it. So enough talk - have a great trip - and please do yourself a favour and break your journey up a few times to ensure that you get to really experience our beautiful country. • F inally, but most importantly, don’t eat yellow snow, never wear grey shoes with a blue suit, mullets have never been cool, always be nice to your mum, white socks are not to be worn with sandals and above all NO budgie smugglers.

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KIWI EXPERIENCE Driver Guides

170

BORN AND BRED in New Zealand

171

KIWI EXPERIENCE Driver Guides

172

BORN BORNAND ANDBRED BREDin inNew NewZealand Zealand

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TIMETABLE WITH ALL PICK UP POINTS

KEY

These times are approximates only and are subject to change. Check with your Driver Guide or phone our reservations team to confirm the day prior to departure. Unforeseen circumstances such as weather, traffic jams and tricky street closures may cause these times to alter slightly. MAIN PICK UP POINT PHONE TO CONFIRM EXACT TIME AND GIVE CONTACT NUMBER

MAIN CIRCUIT Auckland > Hot Water Beach Auckland Central Backpackers (ACB) 8:40am Pick up is at bus stop at 229 Queen Street Includes pick up for Albert Park Backpackers, Frienz Nomads Fusion 8:50am Pickup is at bus top at 99 Queen Street Includes pick up for Queen Street Backpackers and Fat Camel Kiwi Experience Office, Beach Road 9:00am Burger Fuel, Parnell Road 9:00am Pickup is at bus stop at 177 Parnell Road Includes pick up for Lantana Lodge, City Garden Lodge, Leadbetter Lodge, International Backpackers Oaklands 8:00am Pick up is at bus stop at 30 Valley Road Bamber Lodge 8:00am Ponsonby Backpackers 8:10am Brown Kiwi Travellers Hostel 8:10am Uenuku Ponsonby Backpackers 8:10am Surf and Snow Backpackers 8:20am Pick up is at Mexican Café Auckland International YHA 8:30am Includes pick up for Kiwi Backpackers City YHA 8:30am Information Centre - Bombay 10:45am Thames 12:30pm Tairua 1:30pm Hot Water Beach > Waitomo Hot Water Beach Holiday Park

7:30am

Waitomo > Rotorua PICK UPS MAY BE DELAYED DUE TO ACTIVITIES Kiwipaka - Waitomo Black Water Café Includes pick up for Junos

9:00am 8:45am

Rotorua >Taupo Base Hot Rocks 8:45am Includes pick up for Treks YHA and Cactus Jacks Rotorua Downtown/Info Centre 8:50am Corner Hinemoa and Fenton Streets 8:50am Includes pick up for Rotorua Central Backpackers, Spa Lodge Backpackers, Crank and Crash Palace

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Funky Green Voyager Kiwipaka Taupo > River Valley Base Taupo Pick up at Breakers Café Tiki Lodge Taupo Urban Retreat YHA Go Global Berkenhoff’s Rainbow Lodge Blackcurrant Backpackers

8:55am 9:00am 9:30am 9:25am 9:25am 9:25am 9:30am 9:35am 9:40am 9:40am

*TIMES MAY VARY FOR THE FOLLOWING PICK UPS SO ALWAYS RECONFIRM WITH KIWI EXPERIENCE BEFORE DEPARTURE. Turangi Information Centre - Whakapapa National Park Alpine Motel Ohakune

10:55am 2:00pm 2:30pm 3:00pm

River Valley > Wellington River Valley Levin

1:00pm 3:30pm

Wellington > Kaiteriteri PICK UP TIMES CAN VARY DUE TO THE FERRY SCHEDULE Wellington YHA* Includes pick up for Base Backpackers, Beethovens, Rowena’s, Maple Lodge, Wellywood Backpackers, and Trekkers Nomads Capital Corner Willis and Dixon Streets Includes pick up for Rosemere and Wide World Backpackers Lodge in the City Downtown Backpackers Picton Ferry Terminal Fern Lodge, Nelson Nelson Beach Hostel, Tahunanui

7:15am

7:20am 7:25am 12:00pm 2:00pm 2:00pm

Kaiteriteri > Westport Kaiteri Lodge

12.30pm

Westport > Mahinapua Bazils Trippins Punakaiki Hostels Greymouth Railway Station Greymouth Info Centre & Hostels Hokitika Info Centre

9:00am 9:00am 12:00pm 2:00pm 2:00pm 3:15pm

7:20am 7:20am

TIMETABLE WITH ALL PICK UP POINTS Franz Josef > Wanaka Rainforest Retreat Chateau Franz Glowworm Cottage Montrose YHA Fox Glacier Alpine Guides Ivory Towers Copland Track Info Centre - Haast

7:30am 7:30am 7:30am 7:30am 7:30am 8:30am 8:30am 11:00am 11:00am

Wanaka > Queenstown Wanaka Base Includes pick up for Purple Cow YHA Wanaka Hotel Holly’s Hostel Wanaka Campground Matterhorn South Wanaka Backpackers Puzzling World

9:00am 9:00am 9:00am 9:05am 9:05am 10:45am

9:00am

Kaikoura > Wellington Top Spot K’s Backpackers Albatross Backpackers Dolphin Lodge YHA - Maui Info Centre Adelphi Lodge Includes pick up for Fish Tank Lodge Lazy Shag Moby Dix Dusky Lodge Blenheim Railway Station

9:00am 9:00am 9:00am 9:00am 9:10am 9:15am 9:15am 9:20am 9:20am 9:20am 11:00am

Wellington > Taupo Wellington YHA* 8:00am Pick up is at the YHA on Cambridge Terrace Includes pick up for Base Backpackers, Wellywood Backpackers, Cambridge Hotel, Maple Lodge, and Beethoven’s, Rowenas and Trekkers Nomads Capital 8:05am Queenstown > Christchurch Lodge in the City 8:05am YOU MUST RECONFIRM YOUR PICK UP LOCATION Corner of Willis and Dixon Streets 8:15am FROM QUEENSTOWN TO ENSURE WE HAVE YOUR Includes pick up for Rosemere and CORRECT DETAILS Wide World Backpackers Nomads Queenstown 8:10am Downtown Backpackers 8:20am Base Discovery Lodge 8:30am Paraparaumu Bus Stop 8:45am Includes pick up for YHA Central, Downtown New World - Waikanae 8:55am Backpackers, Last Resort, Southern Laughter, Info Centre - Otaki 9:05am Info and Track Centre Info Centre - Levin 9:20am Pinewood Lodge 8:00am Sanson 10:00am Includes pick up for Flaming Kiwi Bulls 10:30am Alpine Lodge 8:05am Info Centre - Taihape 11:30am Includes pick up for Hippo Lodge Turangi 1:45pm Deco’s Hostel 8:10am Includes pick up for Campground Taupo > Auckland YHA - Lakefront 8:10am Base Taupo 8:55am Crown Plaza - Pick up for Bumbles 8:20am Pick up is at Breakers Café Stanley Street bus stop 8:35am Taupo Urban Retreat 8:50am Includes pick up for Bungy Backpackers Go Global 8:55am and The Black Sheep Tiki Lodge 9:00am Frankton Bus Shelter 8:45am Taupo YHA 9:05am Lode Lane, Cromwell (opposite public toilets) 9:30am Rainbow Lodge 9:10am Info Centre - Twizel 11:30am Berkenhoff’s 9:10am Tekapo Shell Station 12:30pm Blackcurrant Backpackers 9:10am Info Centre - Geraldine 2:00pm Rotorua Hostels 10:35am Info Centre - Matamata 12:00pm Christchurch > Kaikoura Jailhouse Pick up is at bus stop on corner of Bernard Street and Lincoln Road Old Country House Includes pick up for Kiwi House and Drifters Around the World Includes pick up for Vagabond and Chester Street Backpackers Corner of Bealey Avenue and Papanui Road Includes pick up for Kiwi Base Camp, At the Right Place and Rucksacker Antarctic Centre

1:45pm 2:00pm 2:00pm 2:15pm 2:30pm

The Christchurch to Kaikoura service will meet up with the Queenstown to Christchurch service at Denton Park, Hornby Junction, before continuing to Kaikoura.

Waitomo Wanderer Taupo: Rainbow Lodge Tiki Lodge YHA Taupo Urban Retreat Black Currant Base Taupo

7:15am 7:15am 7:15am 7:15am 7:15am 7.15am

Rotorua: Base Hot Rocks Astray Corner Hinemoa and Fenton Streets Funky Green Voyager

7.15am 7:15am 7:30am 7:40am

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TIMETABLE WITH ALL PICK UP POINTS BAY OF ISLANDS Auckland > Paihia Auckland Central Backpackers 7:20am Pick up is at bus stop at 229 Queen Street Includes pick up for Albert Park Backpackers, Frienz and Surf and Snow Nomads Fusion 7:30am Pick up is at bus stop at 99 Queen Street Includes pick up for Queen Street Backpackers and Fat Camel Kiwi Experience Office, 85 Beach Road 7:00am Burger Fuel, Parnell Road 7:00am Pick up is at bus stop at 177 Parnell Road Includes pick up for Lantana Lodge, City Garden Lodge and Leadbetter Lodge Auckland International YHA 7:10am Includes pick up for Kiwi Backpackers City YHA 7:05am Warkworth Information Centre 8:15am Whangarei Information Centre 10:15am Paihia > Cape Reinga return Pipi Patch Awesome NZ - Paihia Wharf Waitangi Motor Camp Paihia > Auckland Pipi Patch Awesome NZ - Paihia Wharf Bus Stop opposite Information Centre, Whangarei Warkworth

7:15am 7:15am 7:15am 3:00pm 3:00pm 4:00pm 5:15pm

East As - Taupo > Rotorua > Tatapouri Taupo Rainbow Lodge Tiki Lodge YHA Taupo Urban Retreat Black Currant Base Taupo Rotorua Base Hot Rocks Includes pick up for Treks YHA and Cactus Jacks Kiwipaka Corner Hinemoa and Fenton Streets I-site Opotiki I-site Gisborne YHA Gisborne

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7:15am 7:15am 7:15am 7:15am 7:15am 7.15am 9:00am 8:50am 9:05am 12:00pm 2:30pm 2:40pm

Tatapouri > Rangitukia Tatapouri Dive Centre Info Centre - Tolaga Bay Four Square Tokomaru Bay

10:00am 12:30pm 2:00pm

Rangitukia > Te Kaha Eastenders Farmstay Hicks Bay Maraehako Lodge

10:00am 1:00pm 2:00pm

Te Kaha > Rotorua > Taupo Te Kaha Homestead I-site Opotiki Beach House Lodge Opotiki I-site Whakatane Rotorua hostels

10:00am 10:30am 11:30am 12:30pm 3:45pm

BOTTOM BUS Queenstown > Dunedin Nomads Queenstown Base Discovery Lodge Alpine Lodge Decos Pinewood Black Sheep (pick up at Bungi Backpackers) YHA Queenstown Lakefront Flaming Kiwi Lode Lane, Cromwell (opposite public toilets) Alexandra Information Centre

10:40am 10:35am 10:25am 10:25am 10:25am 10:25am 10:25am 10:25am 12:15am 12:45am

Milford Explorer Nomads Queenstown 7:45am Base Discovery Lodge 7:55am Includes pick up for Alpine Lodge, Hippo Lodge, Info and Track Centre, YHA - Central, Downtown Backpackers, Deco’s Hostel, Last Resort and Southern Laughter Pinewood Lodge 7:40am Includes pick up for Flying Kiwi Crown Plaza 7:45am Includes pick up for Bumbles YHA - Lakefront 7:45am Stanley Street bus stop 8:00am Includes pick up for Bungy Backpackers and the Black Sheep Frankton Bus Shelter 8:10am Te Anau - Pop Inn Café 10:30am The Divide (towards Milford Sound & Routeburn) 12:00pm Milford Sound Wharf 3:55pm The Divide (towards Te Anau) 4:15pm Te Anau - Pop Inn Café 5:30pm

KIWI EXPERIENCE TERMS AND CONDITIONS Kiwi Experience Terms and Conditions: By purchasing and/ or using a Kiwi Experience travel pass you agree to be bound by the following terms and conditions. In these terms and conditions references to “you” or “your” mean the purchaser of the travel pass and/or the passenger using the travel pass as the case may be. References to “Kiwi Experience” or “our” mean Tourism Holdings Limited. 1. Kiwi Experience travel passes (Travel Passes) are valid for travel in one direction for the route stated on the Travel Pass, except with an Unlimited Travel Pass where you can re-travel certain sections (see point 19). 2. Travel using the Travel Pass must commence within 12 months of the date of purchase unless otherwise stated. Travel Passes are valid for 12 months from the first date of travel, or until you have travelled once over all sections of the Travel Pass, whichever occurs first. 3. Travel agent vouchers or website E-Tickets are not valid Travel Passes and must be exchanged for a valid Travel Pass before you can travel on a Kiwi Experience service. 4. Travel Passes which have expired may be extended on the following terms. A Travel Pass can expire either because you did not use it within 12 months of purchase (or such lesser period if stated in the specific terms of purchase) or you have not finished your travels within 12 months from the first date of travel. Extensions must be requested and paid for prior to the expiry date of the Travel Pass. A charge of NZD$50 per 3 month period of extension applies to all extensions. Further, if you wish to extend your Travel Pass prior to your first date of travel and the current Travel Pass price is higher at time of extension than the price you paid for your Travel Pass, the difference must also be paid. There are no refunds in the event the Travel Pass price at the time of extension is less than the price you paid for your Travel Pass. 5. Kiwi Experience assumes no responsibility for lost or stolen Travel Passes. Upon proof of purchase, Kiwi Experience may, at its sole discretion, issue a replacement Travel Pass. A NZD$25 re-issue fee will apply. 6. Kiwi Experience Travel Passes are non-transferable. 7. Cancellation policy for Travel Passes: In the event you have purchased a Travel Pass and subsequently wish to cancel it, Kiwi Experience may refund your Travel Pass at its sole discretion, in which event you will be required to pay a cancellation fee as follows: a. where the purchase price of the Travel Pass is less than NZD$200, the cancellation fee shall be equivalent to the price paid for the Travel Pass; b. where the purchase price of the Travel Pass is greater than NZD$200, the cancellation fee is NZD$200. No Travel Pass may be cancelled following the first date of travel. 8. Travel reservations are recommended on Kiwi Experience services and should be made at least 4 days before departure to give you the best chance of a seat in the summer period (1 January to 30 April), and 2 days before departure to ensure a seat at other times. Changes to reservations must be made at least 24 hours prior to departure. All reservations and changes must be made by contacting our reservations department: Phone: +64 (9) 336 4286 or email: enquiries@kiwiex.co.nz 9. No Shows: Should you fail to show for any booked and confirmed departure your Travel Pass will become invalid unless and until a NZD$50 fee is paid to reinstate the Travel Pass. 10. Kiwi Experience reserves the right to vary any fares, routes, overnight stops, pricing, inclusions, accommodation operators, departure dates, times and locations without notice. Kiwi Experience reserves the right to substitute other vehicles in place of our own. Kiwi Experience product inclusions and advertised accommodation operators are not guaranteed and will be provided where possible.11. Kiwi Experience will endeavour to adhere to stated departure and arrival times but will not be liable for any failure to meet those times or for any cancellation or delay of Kiwi Experience services. 12. Kiwi Experience shall not be liable for any loss or damage of any kind, including indirect or consequential loss or damage, arising directly or indirectly out of a cancellation or abandonment of, or delay to, any trip, however caused. 13. Kiwi Experience has preferred agreements with accommodation

providers however we cannot always guarantee your first choice of accommodation. 14. Kiwi Experience reserves the right to refuse to carry any passenger, luggage or goods at its sole discretion. 15. Kiwi Experience will not be liable for the sickness of, injury to, or death of, any passenger, or the loss of, or damage to, any personal effects, whether caused by Kiwi Experience’s negligence or otherwise. There is no travel insurance cover included in the price of a Travel Pass and Kiwi Experience recommends that you obtain travel insurance to cover any sickness, injury, or loss that may occur while you are travelling with Kiwi Experience. 16. You agree to indemnify Kiwi Experience against any loss, damage or expense suffered or incurred by Kiwi Experience, its officers, employees, agents or related companies as a result of any claim by any third party whose claim arises from your use of your Travel Pass or your acts or omissions while travelling on any Kiwi Experience service. 17. Where the services of another operator are provided as part of the Travel Pass it is agreed and understood that Kiwi Experience has no responsibility whatsoever for any default of that operator. 18. Child fares of 50% of the full fare apply for passengers under 15 years old. Passengers under 18 years must travel with their parent(s), spouse or guardian. There must be at least 1 parent, spouse or guardian for every 2 passengers under 18 years old. Proof of identification and age may be requested and failure to provide such proof may invalidate your Travel Pass. 19. “Unlimited Travel” is available only on Kiwi Experience National Passes validated as ‘Unlimited Travel’ on the Kiwi Experience pass. Unlimited Travel excludes Top Bit, East As, Bottom Bus, Waitomo Wanderer and any other sectors operated by an external supplier to Kiwi Experience. Unlimited Travel is subject to availability with first time Travel Pass users having priority. Unlimited Travel is valid for 12 months from the date of first validation, as per the standard Kiwi Experience Travel Pass validity. The Unlimited Travel Pass user is entitled to reuse the pass for repeat travel, provided that travel follows the fixed route stipulated on the pass type. Unlimited Travel cannot be used for repeat, back-to-back travel on any specific section of the route and the whole route must be completed before repeating any sector. Unlimited Travel Passes are non-transferable and identification must be presented to the driver. Kiwi Experience reserves the right to cancel Unlimited Travel without reason. Failure to adhere to these conditions will result in you being removed from the relevant Kiwi Experience service and being liable to pay for any sectors travelled in breach of these conditions. 20. Kiwi Experience does not offer the Waitomo sector on routes heading North. For the Top Dog Travel Pass, the Waitomo sector is operated by a third party operator, the Waitomo Wanderer, and is available as a return journey from Taupo or Rotorua (i.e when heading North). No Kiwi Experience Travel Pass that includes the Waitomo sector can exchange the Waitomo sector going South bound for a trip operated by the Waitomo Wanderer going North bound. 21. These terms and conditions are governed by the law of New Zealand and you and Kiwi Experience agree to submit to the jurisdiction of the courts of New Zealand in any dispute. Nothing in theseterms and conditions affects your rights under the Consumer Guarantees Act 1993. 22. Kiwi Experience may, at any time and without notice, vary any of these terms and conditions. 23. Kiwi Experience will not be liable for breach of, or any failure to perform its obligations under, these terms and conditions where such breach or failure is caused by anything beyond Kiwi Experience’s reasonable control including, but not limited to, war, civil commotion, hostility, act of terrorism, strike, lockout, other industrial act, weather phenomena or other act of God, or governmental regulation or direction. 24. If any part of these terms and conditions is held to be invalid, unenforceable or illegal for any reason, they will be deemed to be amended by the addition or deletion of wording necessary to remove the invalid, unenforceable or illegal part, but otherwise to remain unchanged to the maximum extent permissible under applicable law.

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EXTENDED Whanau (FAMILY)

Activity operators, hosteL, bar staff AND ALL OUR MATES throughout Aotearoa...

178

EXTENDED Whanau (FAMILY)

...it’s the locals you’ll meet during your travels who will really make your trip memorable.

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ACTIVITY PRICES FOR KIWI EXPERIENCE PASSENGERS KIWI EXPERIENCE RETAIL RATE KIWI PASSENGER RATE SAVING AUCKLAND Beach Bum Bus $99.00 $115.00 $16.00 HOT WATER BEACH Cathedral Cove Kayaking $75.00 $95.00 Hahei Explorer $60.00 $70.00 Glass Bottom Boat $75.00 $90.00

$20.00 $10.00 $15.00

WAITOMO Black Labyrinth $95.00 $119.00 $24.00 Black Abyss $185.00 $220.00 $35.00 Waitomo Glowworm Caves $39.00 $48.00 $9.00 Ruakuri Cave $55.00 $67.00 $12.00 ROTORUA Te Puia gate entry $24.90 $46.00 $21.10 Tamaki Tours Hangi and Concert $88.00 $105.00 $17.00 Zorb - Wet $40.00 $45.00 $5.00 Zorb - Dry $45.00 Agrodome - Farm Show $14.00 $29.00 $15.00 Agroventures - Activities from $25.00 $45.00 up to $20.00 Skyline Skyrides - Gondola only $20.00 $25.00 $5.00 Skyline Skyrides - Gondola + two luge rides $29.00 $32.00 $3.00 Skyline Skyrides - Gondola + three luge rides $35.00 $41.00 $6.00 Skyline Skyrides - Gondola + five luge rides $39.50 $46.00 $6.50 Kaitiaki sledging $89.00 $109.00 $20.00 Kaitiaki white water rafting $82.00 $95.00 $13.00 TAUPO Freefall Great Lake Skydive - 12000 ft $249.00 Freefall Great Lake Skydive - 15000 ft $339.00 Rock & Ropes $65.00 Taupo Bungy $144.00 $149.00 $5.00 Huka Falls Jet $105.00 Tongariro Expedition $59.00 Tongariro Expedition - Winter guided $155.00 RIVER VALLEY White water rafting $149.00 $175.00 Horse trekking $93.00 $109.00

$26.00 $16.00

KAITERITERI Skydive Abel Tasman - 13000 ft $299.00 Skydive Abel Tasman - 16500 ft $399.00 Kaiteriteri Kayaks - 2 Day Kayak and South Walk $180.00 $190.00 $10.00 Kaiteriteri Kayaks - Royal with Cheese $170.00 $180.00 $10.00 Kaiteriteri Kayaks - Seals and Sand $67.00 $72.00 $5.00 Kaiteriteri Kayaks – Split Apple Classic $85.00 $94.00 $9,00 Kaiteriteri Kayaks – Pitt Head Walk $59.00 $64.00 $5.00 180

ACTIVITY PRICES FOR KIWI EXPERIENCE PASSENGERS KIWI EXPERIENCE RETAIL RATE KIWI PASSENGER RATE SAVING WESTPORT Jet boating $75.00 $85.00 $10.00 Horse riding $75.00 $85.00 $10.00 Quad bikes $125.00 $145.00 $20.00 FRANZ JOSEF Glacier Hike - Half day hike and hot pools entry $118.00 $123.00 Glacier Hike - Full day hike and hot pools entry $170.00 $180.00 Ice Climbing - Full day $246.00 $256.00 Heli Hike $379.00 $399.00 Glacier Country Kayaks (includes photos and meal) $95.00 $105.00 Scenic Heli Flight - 20 min $195.00 $215.00 Scenic Heli Flight - 30 min $260.00 $285.00 Scenic Heli Flight - 40 min $360.00 $395.00 Franz Paintball $45.00 Southwestland Horse Treks - 1 hour $54.00 $60.00 Southwestland Horse Treks - 2 hours $85.00 $95.00 Southwestland Horse Treks - 3 hours $130.00 $145.00

$5.00 $10.00 $10.00 $20.00 $10.00 $20.00 $25.00 $35.00 $6.00 $10.00 $15.00

WANAKA Skydive Lake Wanaka 12000 ft $299.00 Skydive Lake Wanaka 15000 ft $399.00 Puzzling World $10.00 $15.00 $5.00 QUEENSTOWN AJ Hackett - Thrillogy (any three) $40 off AJ Hackett - Kawarau Bungy $160.00 $180.00 $20.00 AJ Hackett - Ledge Bungy $160.00 $180.00 $20.00 AJ Hackett - Ledge Sky Swing $110.00 $130.00 $20.00 AJ Hackett - Nevis Bungy $240.00 $260.00 $20.00 AJ Hackett - Nevis Swing $160.00 $180.00 $20.00 AJ Hackett - Nevis Combo (Bungy and Swing) $335.00 $375.00 $40.00 Rangitata Rafts $208.00 $243.00 $35.00 Canyon Swing $189.00 $199.00 $10.00 The Cook Connection (Return transport from Twizel) $45.00 KAIKOURA Whale Watch $145.00 Dolphin Swim $160.00 $170.00 $10.00 Dolphin Viewing $70.00 $80.00 $10.00 Seal Swim $70.00 NOTE; Prices are correct at time of printing and include GST at 15%. Kiwi Experience reserves the right to amend prices.

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ACCOMMODATION LISTINGS AUCKLAND

TAIRUA

Base ACB (Auckland Central Backpackers) Cnr Queen & Darby Streets, Auckland Central Freephone: 0800 BASE NZ (0800 227 369) Email: auckland@stayatbase.com www.stayatbase.com

Tairua Backpackers 200 Main Road, Tairua Ph/Fax: 07 864 8345 Email: tairuabackpackers@xtra.co.nz www.tairuabackpackers.co.nz

Nomads Auckland 16-20 Fort Street, Auckland Central Freephone: 0508 NOMADS Email: info@nomadsauckland.com www.nomadshostels.com Auckland International YHA 5 Turner Street, Auckland Central Freephone: 0800 278 299 Fax: 09 302 8205 Email: yhaakint@yha.co.nz www.yha.co.nz Fat Camel Backpackers - Nomads 38 Fort Street, Auckland Central Freephone: 0508 NOMADS Fax: 09 307 0182 Email: bookings@nomadsfatcamel.com www.nomadshostels.com Auckland City YHA Cnr City Road & Liverpool Streets, Auckland Central Freephone: 0800 278 299 Fax: 09 373 5083 Email: yhaauck@yha.co.nz www.yha.co.nz Queen Street Backpackers 4 Fort Street, Auckland Central Freephone: 0800 899 772 Fax: 09 358 2412 Email: info@qsb.co.nz www.qsb.co.nz Surf n Snow Backpackers 102 Albert Street, Auckland Central Ph: 09 363 8889 Fax: 09 363 5502 Email: info@surfandsnow.co.nz www.surfandsnow.co.nz Uenuku Backpackers 217 Ponsonby Road, Ponsonby Ph: 09 378 8990 Fax: 09 378 8990 Email: enquiries@uenukulodge.co.nz www.uenukulodge.co.nz Brown Kiwi Travellers Hostel 7 Prosford Street, Ponsonby Ph/Fax: 09 378 0191 Email: enquiries@brownkiwi.co.nz www.brownkiwi.co.nz

THAMES Sunkist International Backpackers and Rental Cars - YHA and BBH 506 Brown Street, Thames Ph: 07 868 8808 Fax: 07 868 8808 Email: Sunkist@xtra.co.nz www.sunkistbackpackers.com

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HOT WATER BEACH Hot Water Beach Top 10 Holiday Park 790 Hot Water Beach Road, Hot Water Beach Freephone: 0800 2HOTBEACH (0800 246823) Fax: 07 866 3106 Email: info@hotwaterbeachholidaypark.com www.hotwaterbeachtop10.co.nz

WAITOMO Kiwipaka Waitomo School Road, Waitomo Caves Freephone: 0800 STAYWAITOMO (0800 7829 9248) Ph: 07 878 3395 Fax: 07 878 3396 Email: waitomobackpackers@xtra.co.nz www.kiwipaka.co.nz YHA Juno Hall Backpackers 600 Waitomo Caves Road, Waitomo Ph/Fax: 07 878 7649 Email: junowaitomo@xtra.co.nz www.junowaitomo.co.nz

ROTORUA Base Hot Rock 1286 Arawa Street, Rotorua Freephone: 0800 BASE NZ (0800 2273 69) Email: rotorua@stayatbase.com www.stayatbase.com Treks YHA 1278 Haupapa Street, Rotorua Freephone: 0800 278 299 Fax: 07 349 4086 Email: rotorua@yha.co.nz www.yha.co.nz Kiwipaka Rotorua 60 Tarewa Road, Rotorua Ph: 07 347 0931 Fax: 07 346 3167 Email: stay@kiwipaka.co.nz www.kiwipaka.co.nz Funky Green Voyager 4 Union Street, Rotorua Ph: 07 346 1754 Fax: 07 350 1100 Email: funky.green@xtra.co.nz www.funkygreenvoyager.com Crash Palace 1271 Hinemaru Street, Rotorua Ph: 07 348 8842 Fax: 07 348 8862 Email: info@crashpalace.co.nz www.crashpalace.co.nz

ACCOMMODATION LISTINGS Spa Lodge 1221 Amohau Street, Rotorua Ph: 07 348 3486 Fax: 07 348 3495 Email: info@spalodge.co.nz www.spalodge.co.nz Rotorua Planet Backpackers Cnr Haupapa & Fenton Streets Rotorua Ph/Fax: 07 346 2831 Freephone: 0800 666 236 Email: downtown-rotorua@xtra.co.nz www.rotoruaplanetbackpackers.co.nz Rotorua Central Backpackers 1076 Pukuatua Street, Rotorua Ph/Fax: 07 349 3285. Email: rcbinquiry@slingshot.co.nz

TAUPO Base Taupo 7 Tuwharetoa Street Freephone: 0800 BASE NZ (0800 2273 69) Email: taupo@stayatbase.com www.stayatbase.com Taupo Urban Retreat 65 Heuheu Street, Taupo Freephone: 0800 872 261 Fax: 07 378 6124 Email: stay@tur.co.nz www.tur.co.nz YHA Taupo 56 Kaimanawa Street, Taupo Freephone: 0800 278 299 Fax: 07 378 9612 Email: yhataupo@yha.co.nz www.yha.co.nz Rainbow Lodge 99 Titiraupenga Street, Taupo Ph: 07 378 5754 Fax: 07 377 1548 Email: info@rainbowlodge.co.nz www.rainbowlodge.co.nz Tiki Lodge 104 Tuwharetoa Street, Taupo Freephone: 0800 TIKI LODGE Fax: 07 377 4585 Email: stay@tikilodge.co.nz www.tikilodge.co.nz Berkenhoff Backpackers 75 Scannell Street, Taupo Ph: 07 378 4909 Fax: 07 378 0242 Email: bhoff@reap.org.nz www.berkenhofflodge.co.nz

TURANGI/NATIONAL PARK/ WHAKAPAPA/OHAKUNE YHA Ohakune/Matai Lodge Cnr Clyde & Rata Streets, Ohakune Ph/Fax: 06 385 9169 Email: info@localknowledgenz.com www.yha.co.nz Habitat Backpackers 25 Ohuanga Road, Turangi Ph: 07 386 7492 Fax: 07 386 0106 Email: info@clubhabitat.co.nz www.clubhabitat.co.nz

National Park Backpackers Findlay Street, National Park Ph/Fax: 07 892 2870 Email: nat.park.backpackers@xtra.co.nz www.npbp.co.nz Skotel Alpine Village & Resort Whakapapa Village Freephone: 0800 756 835 Fax: 07 892 3777 Email: info@skotel.co.nz www.skotel.co.nz

RIVER VALLEY River Valley Lodge RD2, Taihape Freephone: 0800 248 666 Ph: 06 388 1444 Fax: 06 388 1859 Email: thelodge@rivervalley.co.nz www.rivervalley.co.nz

WELLINGTON Base Wellington 21-23 Cambridge Terrace, Wellington Freephone: 0800 BASE NZ (0800 2273 69) Email: wellington@stayatbase.com www.stayatbase.com Capital Backpackers - Nomads 118-120 Wakefield Street, Wellington Freephone: 0508 NOMADS Fax: 04 978 7810 Email: info@nomadscapital.com www.nomadshostels.com Wellington City YHA 292 Wakefield Street, Wellington Freephone: 0800 278 299 Fax: 04 801 7278 Email: yha.Wellington@yha.co.nz www.yha.co.nz Cambridge Hotel 28 Cambridge Terrace, Wellington Ph: 04 385 8829 Fax: 04 385 2503 Email: info@cambridgehotel.co.nz www.cambridgehotel.co.nz Wellywood Backpackers 58 Tory Street, Wellington Ph: 04 381 3899, Fax: 04 381 3898 Email: info@wellywoodbackpackers.co.nz www.wellywoodbackpackers.co.nz Downtown Backpackers - VIP and BBH 1 Bunny Street, Wellington Ph: 04 473 8482 Fax: 04 471 1073 Email: db@downtownbackpackers.co.nz www.downtownbackpackers.co.nz Lodge in the City - VIP Cnr Taranaki & Vivian Streets Wellington Ph: 04 385 8560 Fax: 04 385 8531 Email: enquiries@lodgeinthecity.co.nz www.lodgeinthecity.co.nz Barnacles Seaside Inn (Paraparaumu YHA) 3 Marine Parade, Paraparaumu Ph: 04 902 5856 Fax: 04 902 5856 Email: stay@seasideyha.co.nz www.seasideyha.co.nz

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ACCOMMODATION LISTINGS PICTON

GREYMOUTH/HOKITIKA

The Villa Backpackers 34 Auckland Street, Picton Ph/Fax: 03 573 6598 Email: stay@thevilla.co.nz www.thevilla.co.nz

Noah’s Ark Backpackers - VIP and BBH 16 Chapel Street, Greymouth Freephone: 0800 NOAHSARK (662 472) Ph/Fax: 03 768 4868 Email: stay@noahs.co.nz www.noahsarkbackpackers.co.nz

Sequoia Lodge 3 Nelson Square, Picton Ph/Fax: 03 573 8399 Freephone: 0800 222 257 Email: stay@sequoialodge.co.nz www.sequoialodge.co.nz Picton Lodge - VIP 9 Auckland Street, Picton Freephone: 0800 223 367 Fax: 03 573 8418 Email: bookings@pictonlodge.co.nz www.pictonlodge.co.nz

NELSON Fern Lodge (Prince Albert) 113 Nile Street Ph: 03 548 8477 Email: info@fernlodgenelson.co.nz www.fernlodgenelson.co.nz

KAITERITERI Kaiteri Lodge Inlet Road, Kaiteriteri Freephone: 0508 KAITERI (0508 524837) Fax: 03 527 8394 Email: stay@kaiterilodge.co.nz www.kaiterilodge.co.nz

WESTPORT Bazil’s Hostel 54 Russell Street, Westport Ph: 03 789 6410 Fax: 03 789 6240 Email: bazils.backpackers@xtra.co.nz www.bazils.com Trippins Backpackers 72 Queen Street, Westport Ph/Fax: 03 789 7367 Email: tripinn@clear.net.nz www.tripinn.co.nz

PUNAKAIKI Punakaiki Beach Hostel 4 Webb Street, Punakaiki Ph: 03 731 1852 Fax: 03 731 1152 Email: info@punakaikibeachhostel.co.nz www.punakaikibeachhostel.co.nz

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Neptunes Backpackers 43 Gresson Street, Greymouth West Coast, New Zealand Freephone: 0800 003 768 Ph/Fax 03 768 4425 Email emailneptunes@gmail.com Kainga Ra YHA 15 Alexander Street, Greymouth Ph: 03 768 4951 Fax: 03 768 4941 Email: yha.greymouth@yha.co.nz www.yha.co.nz Mountain Jade Backpackers - VIP and BBH 41 Weld Street, Hokitika Freephone: 0800 685 185 Ph: 03 755 5185 Fax: 03 755 7804 Email: stay@mountainjadebackpackers.co.nz www.mountainjadebackpackers.co.nz

LAKE MAHINAPUA Mahinapua Hotel Main Road, Mahinapua Ph/Fax: 03 755 8500

FRANZ JOSEF Rainforest Retreat - VIP Cron Street, Franz Josef Freephone: 0800 873 346 Fax: 03 752 0003 Email: comestay@rainforestretreat.co.nz www.rainforestretreat.co.nz Franz Josef YHA 2 - 4 Cron Street, Franz Josef Ph: 03 752 0754 Fax: 03 752 0080 Email: yhafzjo@yha.co.nz www.yha.co.nz Chateau Franz - VIP 8 Cron Street, Franz Josef Freephone: 0800 728 372 Fax: 03 752 0743 Email: chateaufranz@xtra.co.nz www.chateaufranz.co.nz Glow Worm Cottage Cron Street, Franz Josef Ph: 0800 151 027 Fax: 03 752 0173 Email: glowwormcottages@xtra.co.nz www.kiwi-backpackers.co.nz Montrose Backpackers Cron Street, Franz Josef Freephone: 0800 666876 Ph: 03 752 0188 Fax: 03 752 0192 Email: reception@montroselodge.co.nz www.montroselodge.co.nz

ACCOMMODATION LISTINGS FOX GLACIER Ivory Towers Backpackers Sullivan Road, Fox Glacier Ph/Fax: 03 751 0838 Email: enquiries@ivorytowerslodge.co.nz www.ivorytowerslodge.co.nz

WANAKA Base Wanaka 73 Brown Street, Wanaka Freephone: 0800 BASE NZ (227 369) Email: wanaka@stayatbase.com www.stayatbase.com Purple Cow YHA 94 Brownston Street, Wanaka Freephone: 0800 278 299 Fax: 03 443 1870 Email: purplecow@yha.co.nz www.yha.co.nz Mountain View Backpackers 7 Russell Street, Wanaka Ph: 0800 112 201 Fax: 03 443 9051 Email: stay@mtview.co.nz www.wanakabackpackers.co.nz

Queenstown YHA 88-90 Lake Esplanade, Queenstown Freephone: 0800278299 Ph: 03 4428413 Fax: 03 4426561 Email: queenstown.lakefront@yha.co.nz www.yha.co.nz Queenstown Central YHA 48a Shotover Street, Queenstown Freephone: 0800 278299 Ph: 03 4427400 Fax: 03 4427403 Email: yha.queenstowncentral@yha.co.nz www.yha.co.nz Pinewood Lodge - VIP 48 Hamilton Road, Queenstown Freephone: 0800 746 396 Fax: 03 442 9470 Email: booking@pinewood.co.nz www.pinewood.co.nz The Black Sheep – VIP 13 Frankton Road, Queenstown Ph: 03 4427289 Fax: 03 4427361 Email: theblacksheep@queenstown.co.nz www.blacksheepbackpackers.co.nz Bungi Backpackers - VIP Cnr Sydney & Stanley Streets, Queenstown Freephone: 0800 728 286 Fax: 03 442 8729 www.kiwi-backpackers.co.nz

Wanaka Hotel 71 Ardmore Street, Wanaka Ph: 03 443 7826 Fax: 03 443 9069 Email: wanakahotel@xtra.co.nz www.wanakahotel.co.nz

Alpine Lodge 11 - 13 Gorge Road, Queenstown Ph: 03 4427220 Fax: 03 4427038 Email: alpinelodge@xtra.co.nz www.alpinelodgebackpackers.co.nz

Wanaka Backpackers 117 Lakeside Road, Wanaka Ph: 03 443 7837 Fax: 03 443 1686 Email: info@wanakabakpaka.co.nz www.wanakabakpaka.co.nz

Southern Laughter - VIP 4 Isle Street, Queenstown Ph: 03 4418828 Fax: 03 4418834 Email: southernlaughter@xtra.co.nz www.southernlaughter.co.nz

Matterhorn South Backpackers - VIP 56 Brownston Street, Wanaka Ph: 03 443 1119 Fax: 03 443 8379 Email: matterhorn@xtra.co.nz www.matterhornsouth.co.nz

Deco’s Backpackers 52 Man Street, Queenstown Ph: 03 442 7384 Fax: 03 442 6258 Email: beds@decobackpackers.co.nz www.decobackpackers.co.nz

Hollys Backpackers 71 Upton Street, Wanaka Ph/Fax: 03 443 8187 Email: hollys@xtra.co.nz www.hollys-backpacker.co.nz

Queenstown Lake View Holiday Park 4 Cemetery Road, Queenstown Freephone: 0800 482 735 Ph: 03 4427252 Fax: 03 442 7253 Email: holidaypark@qldc.govt.nz www.holidaypark.net.nz

QUEENSTOWN Nomads Queenstown 5-11 Church Street, Queenstown Freephone: 0508 NOMADS (0508 666 237) Fax: 03 441 3925 Email: info@nomadsqueenstown.com www.nomadshostels.com Base Discovery Lodge, Queenstown 49 Shotover Street, Queenstown Freephone: 0800 BASE NZ (0800 2273 69) Email: queenstown@stayatbase.com www.stayatbase.com

LAKE TEKAPO & MT COOK Mt Cook YHA Cnr Bowen & Kitchener Drives, Mt Cook National Park Freephone: 0800 278299 Ph: 03 435 1820 Fax: 03 4351821 Email: yha.mtcook@yha.co.nz www.yha.co.nz Lake Tekapo YHA Simpson Lane, Lake Tekapo Ph: 03 6806857 Fax: 03 6806664 Email: yha.laketekapo@yha.co.nz www.yha.co.nz

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ACCOMMODATION LISTINGS CHRISTCHURCH Jailhouse 338 Lincoln Road, Christchurch Freephone: 0800 JAILHOUSE (0800 524546) Email: stay@jail.co.nz www.jail.co.nz At the Right Place 85-87 Bealey Avenue, Christchurch Ph: 0800 778 787 Email: stay@atrp.co.nz www.atrp.co.nz Old Country House 437 Gloucester Street, Christchurch Ph: 03 381 5504 theoldcountryhouse@yahoo.co.nz www.oldcountryhousenz.com Around the World 314 Barbadoes Street, Christchurch Ph: 03 365 4363 Email: stay@aroundtheworld.co.nz www.aroundtheworld.co.nz Kiwi Base Camp 69 Bealey Avenue, Christchurch Ph: 03 366 6770 www.kiwibasecamp.co.nz Rolleston House YHA 5 Worcester Street, Christchurch Freephone: 0800 278 299 Ph: 03 366 6564 Fax: 03 365 5589 Email: yhachrl@yha.co.nz www.yha.co.nz

KAIKOURA Top Spot Backpackers 22 Deal Street, Kaikoura Ph: 03 319 5540 Fax: 03 319 6587 Email: topspot@xtra.co.nz Lazy Shag Backpackers 37 Beach Road, Kaikoura Ph: 03 319 6662 Fax: 03 319 6587 Email: lazy-shag@xtra.co.nz Maui YHA 270 The Esplanade, Kaikoura Freephone: 0800 278 299 Fax: 03 319 6921 Email: yhakaikr@yha.co.nz www.yha.co.nz Adelphi Lodge - VIP West End, Kaikoura Ph: 03 319 5141 Fax: 03 319 6786 Email: adelphilodge@xtra.co.nz www.adelphilodge.co.nz Dusky Lodge - VIP 67 Beach Road, Kaikoura Ph: 03 319 5959 Fax: 03 319 6929 Email: info@duskylodge.com www.duskylodge.com

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BAY OF ISLANDS SECTOR PAIHIA Base Pipi Patch 18 Kings Road, Paihia Freephone: 0800 BASE NZ (0800 2273 69) Email: paihia@stayatbase.com www.stayatbase.com YHA Paihia Cnr Kings Road & MacMurray Road, Paihia Freephone: 0800 278 299 Ph: 09 402 7487 Fax: 09 402 7587 Email: yha.paihia@yha.co.nz www.yha.co.nz Bay Adventurer - VIP 28 Kings Road, Paihia Freephone: 0800 112 127 Fax: 09 402 5163 Email: info@bayadventurer.co.nz www.bayadventurer.co.nz Centabay Lodge - VIP 27 Selwyn Street, Paihia Ph: 09 402 7466 Fax: 09 402 8145 Email: centabay@xtra.co.nz www.centabay.co.nz The Mousetrap - VIP 11 Kings Road, Paihia Freephone: 0800 402 8182 Ph: 09 402 8182 Email: info@mousetrap.co.nz www.mousetrap.co.nz Peppertree Lodge 15 Kings Road Paihia, Ph/Fax: 09 402 6122 Email: peppertree.lodge@xtra.co.nz www.peppertree.co.nz

KAEO Sunseeker Lodge Old Hospital Road, Whangaroa RD1, Kaeo, Northland Ph: 09 405 0496 Email:sunseekerlodge@xtra.co.nz www.sunseekerlodge.co.nz

WHANGAREI Manaakitanga YHA 52 Punga Grove Ave, Whangarei Freephone: 0800 278 299 Ph: 09 438 8954 Fax: 09 438 9525 www.yha.co.nz

EAST CAPE SECTOR Eastender Farmstay Te Kautuku Station, Rangitukia Ph: 06 864 3820 Email: eastenderfarmstay@xtra.co.nz

ACCOMMODATION ACCOMMODATIONLISTINGS LISTINGS Te Kaha Homestead Lodge Main Road, Te Kaha Ph: 07 325 2194 Fax: 07 325 2193 Email: paora.obrien@hotmail.com

CATLINS/SOUTHERN SCENIC ROUTE

Tatapouri Dive SH35, Tatapouri Beach, Gisborne Ph: 06 868 5153 Email: divetatapouri@xtra.co.nz www.divetatapouri.com

Lazy Dolphin Lodge Backpackers 529 Curio Bay Road Ph/Fax: 03 246 8579 Email: lazydolphin@farmside.co.nz www.lazydolphinlodge.co.nz

Gisborne YHA 32 Harris Street, Gisborne Freephone: 0800 278 299 Ph: 06 867 3269 Fax: 06 867 3296 Email: yha.gisborne@yha.co.nz www.yha.co.nz

Curio Bay Camping Ground 601 Waikawa - Curio Bay Road, Curio Bay Ph: 03 246 8897

dunedin On Top Backpackers 12 Filleul Street, Dunedin Freephone: 0800 668672 Ph: 03 477 6121 Fax: 03 477 6141 Email: ontopbackpackers@hotmail.com www.ontopbackpackers.co.nz Adventure Backpackers - VIP 37 Dowling Street, Dunedin Freephone: 0800 422 257 Fax: 03 477 7367 Email: adventures@es.co.nz

Falls Backpackers Purakaunui Falls Road Ph/Fax: 03 415 8724 Email: rmsbkerr@ispnz.co.nz

INVERCARGILL Tuatara Lodge 30/32 Dee Street, Invercargill Freephone: 0800 488 282 Ph: 03 214 0954 Fax: 03 214 0956 Email: office@tuataralodge.co.nz www.tuataralodge.co.nz Southern Comfort 30 Thomson Street, Invercargill Ph: 03 218 3838

Manor House - VIP 28 Manor Place, Dunedin Freephone: 0800 477 0484 Ph: 03 477 0484 Fax: 03 479 2009 Email: mail@manorhousebackpackers.co.nz www.manorhousebackpackers.co.nz

Globe Backpackers - VIP 144 Palmerston Street, Riverton Ph/Fax: 03 234 8527 Email: globebackpackers@xtra.co.nz www.theglobe.co.nz

Chalet Backpackers 296 High Street, Dunedin Freephone: 0800 242 538 Ph: 03 479 2075 Fax: 03 479 2050 Email: kirsti@paradise.net.nz www.chaletbackpackers.co.nz

TE ANAU/MILFORD SOUND

Elm Lodge 74 Elm Row, Dunedin Ph: 03 474 1872 Fax: 03 477 3384 Email: stay@elmlodge.co.nz www.elmlodge.co.nz Next Stop Backpackers 2 View Road, Dunedin Freephone: 0800 463 987 Ph: 03 477 0447 Fax: 03 477 0430 Email: info@nextstop.co.nz Stafford Gables YHA 71 Stafford Street, Dunedin Freephone: 0800 278 299 Ph: 03 474 1919 Fax: 03 479 2165 Email: yha.Dunedin@yha.co.nz www.yha.co.nz

Te Anau Backpackers 48 Lakefront Drive, Te Anau Ph: 03 249 7713 Fax: 03 249 8319 Email: res@teanaubackpackers.co.nz www.teanaubackpackers.co.nz Te Anau YHA 29 Mokonui Street, Te Anau Freephone: 0800 278 299 Ph: 03 249 7847 Fax: 03 249 7823 Email: yha.teanau@yha.co.nz www.yha.co.nz Milford Sound Lodge State Highway 94, Milford Sound Ph: 03 249 8071 Email: info@milfordlodge.com www.milfordlodge.com

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