Our New Zealand Magazine Issue 22

I S S U E 2 2 / su m m e r 2 013 /14

Splash about in The Coromandel this summer

Ruakaka 3 Jan 2014

ellerslie 11 Jan 2014

Thames 4 Jan 2014

Tauranga 2 Jan 2014 26 Jan 2014

te aroha 12 Jan 2014 Taupo 30 Dec 2013

40 Events Nationwide 26 Dec – 8 Feb

Find an event near you at theraces.co.nz

Awapuni 8 Feb 2014 Otaki 5 & 19 Jan 2014

Nelson 3 Jan 2014 5 Jan 2014

Hastings 1 Jan 2014 woodville 4 Jan 2014

Tauherenikau 2 Jan 2014, 6 Feb 2014

Trentham

Westport 26 Dec 2013 28 Dec 2013 Greymouth 4 Jan 2014

waipukurau 12 Jan 2014

Reefton 30 Dec 2013

ashburton 25 Jan 2014

Blenheim 20 Jan 2014 10 Jan 2014 12 Jan 2014

Rangiora 6 Feb 2014

Motukarara Kurow 29 Dec 2013, 26 Jan 2014 30 Dec 2013 geraldine Omakau 1 Feb 2014 2 & 3 Jan 2014 Cromwell 7 Jan 2014 Roxburgh Waikouaiti 5 Jan 2014 1 Jan 2014 gore 27 Dec 2013 18 Jan 2014

Wingatui 26 Dec 2013

“It was my first time at the races and my family and I really enjoyed it”

nzrb1048

Interislander Summer Festival is a quintessential Kiwi day at the races with live music, free kids entertainment and good ol’ fashioned racing action to enjoy with friends and family!

wanganui 30 Dec 2013

Rotorua 27 Dec 2013

Welcome to our new zealand What does it take to create a memorable tourism experience?

For me, it’s a combination of great service and hospitality, unique sights and a sense of novelty. These are all crucial things in producing a travel experience worth remembering.

Train travel has always been about the experience. It isn’t the fastest mode of transport, but it is the most scenic and one of the most relaxing ways to travel. I firmly believe that KiwiRail’s Scenic Journeys have all the components of a truly memorable tourism experience for our passengers, and I am enormously proud of our long-distance services – the TranzAlpine, Coastal Pacific and Northern Explorer.

While many of our passengers have experienced travelling on our new carriages operating on all three of our Scenic services, we had a chance to display them to the New Zealand public throughout the country as part of KiwiRail’s 150thcelebrations of rail. The feedback we received was overwhelmingly positive. We know we have a fabulous product that our passengers love, and this was confirmed in October when our carriages received a Silver Award in the Best Product Design from the Designers Institute of New Zealand. We’ve positioned Scenic at the top end of the travel and conference market and this award underscores that.

A growing trend in delivering a unique, extraordinary and memorable tourism experience includes giving back to the community and reducing our impact on the environment. KiwiRail Scenic’s efforts towards being a responsible tourism operator have just been rewarded with a Silver Enviro endorsement from Qualmark. Our community and sustainability initiatives, some of which are seemingly small, make a big impact on the way we run our business and have the double benefit of being both cost effective and good for the environment.

Deborah Hume

General Manager, Rail Passenger KiwiRail

IN THIS ISSUE

84 SOMETHING FOR ALL IN CHRISTCHURCH AND CANTERBURY

You’ll be spoilt for choice on how to spend your time in New Zealand’s largest region, Canterbury or its cultural capital Christchurch.

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FEEL ALIVE IN NELSON With great food, wine, beers, scenery and so much more, there’s just no going past this awesome spot.

14 MUSEUMS

The country’s museums and galleries care for more than 40 million items relating to New Zealand’s history.

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GOOD FOR THE SOUL IN COROMANDEL The Coromandel region has long led the way in the sustainable development of tourism in New Zealand since the early 1990’s.

20 AMAZING AUCKLAND

No matter how much time you have to spend in Auckland, there is something for you to enjoy.

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HUMBLE HAMILTON Located in the heart of the North Island, this region offers a mix of nature-based tourism, underground adventure and Middle-earth movie magic.

29 TAKE SOME TIME IN TARANAKI

Imagine a place where surf breaks crash into farmland and mountains; this is Taranaki.

33 MEET THE MANY REGIONS OF HAWKE’S BAY

Located on the North Island’s eastern coast, Hawke’s Bay is one of the country’s premier food and wine regions.

37 OH OHAKUNE

In summer, Ohakune is a fantastic place to discover the outdoors.

WONDER OF WELLINGTON Wellington’s a boutique city where excellent shopping, exciting galleries, great restaurants, cafes and bars are all just a hop, skip and a jump away.

HAVE A DAZZLING TIME IN GOLDEN BAY Imagine a region with endless variety, where golden beaches, alpine valleys and tranquil fishing rivers share flank the sea.

66 MAGIC IN MARLBOROUGH

Always a delight, Marlborough is a gorgeous region to visit during summer and the famous wines are calling!

GET ADVENTUROUS IN QUEENSTOWN Welcome to Queenstown, the adventure playground of New Zealand.

regulars 4

Welcome to Our New Zealand

6 updates 120 Your Views 118 MOTIVE POWER

81 DOWN UNDER FUN IN KAIKOURA

The local marine life is happy to welcome you here, but there’s plenty of fun to be had on land too!

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WILD WEST COAST There’s nothing like the West Coast, where options abound and visitors can really sit back, chill out and wind down.

104 DEEP IN LAKE WANAKA

Lake Wanaka is one of NZ’s most diverse regions, its also where the adventure begins.

114 FIORDLAND FUN

Indented seascapes carved by glaciers over 100,000 years old are what characterises Fiordland. Some say it’s one of New Zealand’s best-kept secrets.

PUBLISHER Patrick McElligott PO Box 2173, Washdyke, Timaru NZ 7941 | patrick@inflightpublish.co.nz

ADVERTISING North & South Island Michelle Agnew P: 0274 664 384 E: michelle@inflightpublish.co.nz

EDITOR Lahnee Pavlovich lahnee@inflightmagazine.com.au

DESIGN & PRODUCTION Penny Thompson

Free app (QR Code Scan) available on itunes for iPhone and iPad.

Cover Photo: Swimming Cathedral Cove Credit: thecoromandel.com

DISCLAIMER: Views expressed in the Inflight magazine are not necessarily endorsed by the publisher. No responsibility is accepted by the publisher or the printer for the accuracy of information contained in the text or advertisements.

Advertisements must comply with the relevant Trade Practices Act 1979. Responsibility for compliance with the act rests with the person, company or advertising agency submitting the advertisement. Neither the publisher nor the editor accepts responsibility for advertisements.

PRINTING FORMAT PUBLISHING

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KIWIRAIL UPDATES

Summer scenic train experiences Summer is the perfect time to explore New Zealand. The water’s warm and inviting for swimmers, the sky is big and blue and the beauty of nature is calling, ready to be enjoyed and explored.

One of the best ways to travel around the country is by one of KiwiRail’s Scenic trains. While onboard travelling to some of the country’s most beautiful destinations, you can look out the window in ultimate comfort at the breath-taking scenery around you.

Three KiwiRail trains cover a lot of ground in the North and South Islands. The Northern Explorer travels between Auckland and Wellington, the Coastal Pacific ventures between Christchurch and Picton and the TranzAlpine runs between Christchurch and Greymouth.

Each KiwiRail Scenic Journey brings its own treasured memories, sights and sounds. Here are our must-do summer experiences for each train.

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Jump aboard the Northern Explorer to National Park, one of New Zealand’s natural playgrounds. This is the perfect location for outdoor activities and maybe even a touch of luxury too.

For those who love hiking, the Tongariro Alpine Crossing is simply unmissable. This World Heritage Site boasts incredible unique scenery, the likes of which stun both locals and visitors.

The crossing will take you on a 19.4 kilometre journey across beautiful streams, past gushing springs, up steep steps and on rough and rugged volcanic terrain. While the walk is certainly challenging, the world-renowned scenery is well worth the effort.

Highlights of the hike include gazing at the stunning peaks of Ngauruhoe, Tongariro and Ruapehu from great heights, seeing the vibrant emerald lakes, old lava flow and rock formations up close.

Why not reward your efforts with an overnight stay at the magnificent Chateau Tongariro? This luxurious hotel is located right in the heart of Tongariro National Park and has stood gracefully at the base of Mount Ruapehu since 1929.

The rooms are beautiful and will provide the perfect comfort to your worn out muscles, while the elaborately decorated Ruapehu lounge, complete with lofty ceiling and giant window looking out to the beautiful scenery, is the perfect location for relaxing to gentle piano music over a high tea.

KiwiRail Scenic Journeys’ Chateau Tongariro Escape package includes return travel for two on the Northern Explorer, overnight accommodation for two (share twin) at the Bayview Chateau Tongariro, as well as breakfast and hotel transfers. For more information on Escape packages for the Northern Explorer visit www.kiwirailscenic.co.nz/northern-explorer

Head from the mountains to the seaside and enjoy the Coastal Pacific’s summer must-do experiences.

If you’ve ever dreamed about whale watching or swimming with dolphins, now’s the time to indulge.

At the quaint coastal township of Kaikoura, you can head out on tours specifically designed to spot whales, dolphins and other marine creatures who call Kaikoura home.

You’ll never forget the first moment you catch sight of a whale, the gentle giant of the sea, gracefully gliding through the water.

Likewise, swimming with dolphins is a special experience.

Rarely do we get the chance to interact so closely with this kind of mammal. Dolphins are known for being friendly and interactive, and love showing off their acrobatic skills.

While you’re travelling aboard the Coastal Pacific, visiting the Marlborough wine region is also a must. Blenheim is the gateway to the rich flavours of sumptuous wines, with its dozens of vineyards and wineries open for you to taste and experience.

Embark upon a wine tasting tour and be sure to sample the region’s famous Sauvignon Blanc at a range of both big and boutique wineries.

Just imagine it – relaxing in the sun with a glass of your favourite wine, some gourmet cheese and good company. Absolute summer bliss.

KiwiRail Scenic Journeys’ Whale Watch Escape package includes return travel for two on the Coastal Pacific, a Whale Watch tour and accommodation and breakfast at the Kaikoura Boutique Hotel if required, as well as transfers between the train and hotel. For more information on Escape packages for the Coastal Pacific visit www.kiwirailscenic.co.nz/coastal-pacific

A lakeside holiday can be the perfect summer experience and there’s no place more perfect for this than Lake Brunner.

The intimate township of Moana will look after you during your visit, where you can enjoy a stay anywhere from backpacker accommodation to right in the lap of luxury.

Enjoy cruising the lake, fishing, swimming, practising your favourite water sports and then dining at a local cafe in the friendly village.

There are also plenty of hikes and nature trails in the area that delve into the local wetland and rainforest, so beautiful day trips are certainly an option - just pack your picnic lunch!

If lounging on a sandy beach is more up your alley, why not hire a car from Greymouth and drive the Great Coast Road? This runs between Westport and Greymouth and is often touted as one of the world’s best coastal drives, due to dramatic cliffs, and long, deserted beaches. Find a quiet bay or river for a swim for the perfect tranquil summer experience.

KiwiRail Scenic Journeys’ Lake Brunner Day Out Escape package includes return travel from Christchurch to Moana (Lake Brunner) on the TranzAlpine, lunch at the Station Café and acitivites such as fishing. For more information on Escape packages for the Northern Explorer visit www.kiwirailscenic. co.nz/tranzalpine Are you feeling inspired for the Kiwi summer yet? With so many things to see and do around New Zealand, you’ll never run out of reasons to jump aboard one of KiwiRail Scenic Journeys’ trains for the journey of a lifetime.

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Christchurch - Picton - Wellington

STORIES OF OUR LAND

10

NZ summer

visit our New Zealand Summer New Zealand is one of the world’s road trip meccas – a combination of ultra-cool urban cities, pumping surf and majestic mountains. And summer in New Zealand is the perfect time to get the friends and family together and hit the road. Here’s a little taste of what you can do on your trip:

PASSIONATE ABOUT BAKING IN GOODNESS.

We take enormous pride in supplying the best bakery products in New Zealand.

Keep an eye out for our baked treats onboard and around New Zealand.

www.goodtime.co.nz

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nz summer

1. Tekapo Springs Summer Tube It’s snowtubes but not as you know them. Glide down a carpeted track around twists, turns, bumps and curves.

2. Boat cruises New Zealand has plenty of beautiful lakes and some of the boat cruises are a little more adrenalin charged than others – like jet boating.

3. Fishing Pack your rod and do a spot of beach or river fishing as you go – New Zealand’s fish make a particularly tasty free feed. Or there are numerous fish farms where you can drop in and drop a line.

4. Kayaking With rivers, bays and lakes galore, New Zealand offers unlimited kayaking opportunities, so get out there on the water and explore.

5. Tramping It’s the New Zealand word for ‘walking far and wide, and often high, in serious boots’ but you can do it anywhere, any time. Stunning National Parks, wild coastlines, and rugged countryside – it’s all here and ready for you to hit the trail.

6. City life In the North Island spend some time exploring Auckland’s urban cool. Other northerly cities include Napier, Hamilton, Hastings, Rotorua, and the capital, Wellington. From Christchurch in the South Island, you can drive on to Dunedin, Invercargill and Nelson, all with their own distinct cultures and groove.

Te Hana Te Ao Marama is Auckland’s leading Maori Cultural Centre offering a comprehensive range of authentic Maori cultural experiences

7. A bit of culture Don’t leave New Zealand without learning some of the traditional Maori culture and history. At the very least, touch noses with someone, once.

8. Festivals ‘Kiwi’s’ are so glad when the winter chill subsides, they throw festivals all over the place! From mussels and music, to beer and bbq’s, it’s party time across the entire country.

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26/07/13 2:26 PM

nz summer

Summer Festivals

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Rhythm and Vines Music Festival – Gisborne 29 - 31 December 2013, Waiohika Estate The Rhythm and Vines music festival is the ultimate New Year experience. Be one of the first in the world to see in the New Year as you party with 30,000 people in the lush green hills and vines of Waiohika Estate in Gisborne.

Rhythm and Alps, Wanaka December 30 - 31 2013, Cardrona Valley Located in the beautiful Cardrona Valley, Rhythm and Alps is an epic New Years’ festival. With room for 5000 campers and a stellar line up for 2013 - including the ever-popular Shapeshifter - Rhythm and Alps is a spectacular event, perfect for those in the Queenstown-Wanaka area over the December/January period.

Parachute - Hamilton 24 - 26 January 2014, Mystery Creek Events Centre Celebrating its 24th year in 2014, Parachute Festival is one of the largest multi-day music festivals in the Southern Hemisphere.

Homegrown – Wellington 15 February 2014, Wellington Waterfront New Zealand music is celebrated in style on Wellington’s waterfront at the Homegrown festival. Kiwi music’s biggest day gets bigger each year, proudly showcasing the best of homegrown musical talent.

Homegrown, which sells out each year, transforms the waterfront into a festival playground, with attractions including breakdancing competitions, a food market, street performers, interactive activities, art installations and sculptures, and Wellington’s best graffiti artists.

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For more information: visit www.newzealand.com 13

museums & galleries Caring for more than 40 million items relating to New Zealand’s historic past, the museums and galleries attract more than 8 million visitors each year. Whether your interests are in arts and crafts, history and culture you will find something interesting and uniquely NZ in one of the many museums and galleries. And summer is the perfect time to take a break and explore what’s inside.

The great agricultural stories of the South Island Visit the places, enjoy their vision. Delight in the dreams, schemes, inventions and the dogged determination of Kiwi farmers.

SCAN ME

Totara Estate 8 kms south of Oamaru Early entrepreneurs make a killing, shipping frozen lamb to the dinner tables of England. visit: www.totaraestate.co.nz call: (03) 433 1269

SCAN ME

Clarks Mill 11 kms south of Oamaru Milling grains from the great Totara Estate, four floors of wooden machinery create a fascinating labyrinth to explore.

How does it work? visit: www.totaraestate.co.nz call: (03) 433 1269

SCAN ME

Hayes Engineering Works and Homestead (Oturehua in the Ida Valley) Marvel at a fully operational Victorian workshop where Ernest Hayes invented agricultural devices still used today, and imagine his wife Hannah, in full skirts and corset, pedalling through Central Otago selling them. visit: www.hayesengineering.co.nz call: (03) 444 5801

The great agricultural stories of the South Island Visit the places where early entrepreneurial farmers dreamed, schemed and invented, selling their products to markets on the other side of the world. Discover how these visionary men and their families helped shape our agricultural landscape today.

Experience a taste of life at the Victorian farm, Totara Estate, from where in 1882 New Zealand’s first shipment of frozen meat was sent to Britain. With picturesque Oamaru stone farm buildings, early sheep breeds to feed, games and domestic chores to try your hand at, displays and video about early life on the farm, here is a great day out. A gift shop and light refreshments are available, or bring a picnic.

Clarks Mill is a 19th-century manufacturing marvel, where grain from Totara Estate was milled. Inside the four-storey Oamaru stone flour mill, walk the history from water wheel to electric power and from millstone to roller grinding and follow the journey of a wheat grain from its arrival to its departure as the fine Snow Wreath Flour. On operating days see, hear and feel the machinery in action.

At Oturehua, on the Central Otago Rail Trail, the mud brick buildings of Hayes Engineering and Homestead bake in the hot Otago sun. The endeavours of Ernest and Hannah Hayes are evident in the fascinating workshop, quirky homestead and farm buildings. Check the website for opening times, and for special operating days, when the workshop is full swing. On all other days a great self-guided tour is available, followed by a stop in our old-homestead café and delightful shop.

For more information: visit www.historic.org.nz

More Info

visit: www.historicplaces.org.nz

museums & galleries

The Film Archive

Still from Heavenly Creatures (1994) directed by Peter Jackson. Stills Collection; New Zealand Film Archive / Ngā Kaitiaki O Ngā Taonga Whitiāhua

Please visit the conference website for more information: www.otago.ac.nz/fhaanz2008 or email us: fhaanz2008@otago.ac.nz

Collecting our past Protecting our future Connecting with our country

Museum of Wellington City & Sea 2.6

Within the walls of an historic 1892 waterfront building is a world class museum that celebrates Wellington’s intriguing history.

The Museum of Wellington City & Sea is the perfect way to spend a few hours with the family.

Highlights include a film depicting a century of life in Wellington told through the eyes of Wellingtonians, a show depicting Maori creation legends, and the Wahine memorial gallery dedicated to the tragic sinking of this interisland ferry.

Visit any day from 10am to 5pm for free. For something special take a tour of the Museum and cable car or Matiu/Somes Island in Wellington Harbour.

For more information: visit www.museumswellington.org.nz

The Libr

Image Credit: Heavenly Creatures (1994, directed by Peter Jackson) Stills Collection, New Zealand Film Archive Nga kaitiaki O Ngā Taonga Whitiāhua

The Jon

ComeCome and discover New Zealand’s national archive of moving images. and discover New Zealand’s Nau national mai, haerearchive mai ki Ngā Kaitiaki Oimages.

Ngā Taonga Whitiāhua. of moving

Nau mai, haere mai ki Ngā Kaitiaki O Ngā Taonga Whitiāhua.

Film Archive office hours: Monday to Friday, 9am–5pm

Exhibitions open: Monday to Friday, 9am–5pm Saturday, 4pm–6pm

Libraries open: Monday to Friday from noon–5pm (and by appointment)

Please ring 04 499 3456 for current listings or check the events calendar online.

Free Entry Please note screenings of films from outside the collection may have entry charges.

84 Taranaki St Te Aro, Wellington Phone: 04 384 7647 www.filmarchive.org.nz

FOR CURRENT SCREENINGS, EXHIBITIONS AND EVENTS PLEASE RING (04) 499 3456 OR CHECk THE CALENDAR ONLINE. CNR GHUZNEE & TARANAKI STREETS WELLINGTON NEW ZEALAND

filmarchive.org.nz

Colonial Cottage Museum Summer is the ideal time to visit Wellington’s oldest original cottage.

The Colonial Cottage Museum in Nairn Street is home to the story of the Wallis family who lived there for three generations. Stroll around the organic heritage garden at any time or take a guided tour for a glimpse into the lives of this pioneering New Zealand family.

The cottage is open for tours every weekend 12pm to 4pm in the winter. Throughout the summer months it is open every afternoon.

Take a picnic to enjoy the garden, sample the fruits and herbs and visit three heritage chickens in residence.

121 South Street, Feilding, MANAWATU OPEN 7 DAYS 10AM-4PM

www.coachhousemuseum.org Just 2 Hours Drive North of Wellington

For more information: visit www.museumswellington.org.nz 15

This refere film-related posters, pu and ephem

MUSEUMS & GALLERIES KAURI COAST

The Kauri Coast

NORTHLAND 16

Kauri Forests, fresh water lakes, thousands of acres of sand dunes, coastlines both inner and outer harbour, kumara (sweet potato), world class artists, stunning scenery, volcanic peaks to climb, adventures to have – there is so much to experience and enjoy during your stay on the Kauri Coast region of Northland.

Travel only 1½ hours north-west of Auckland on the Twin Coast Discovery Highway turn left off State Highway 1 at the Brynderwyn junction on to State Highway 12 and you can start your Kauri Coast adventure. First stop will be at the quaint village of Paparoa with accommodation to suit all budgets at the Paparoa Motor Camp.

Next stop has to be at the award winning Kauri Museum Matakohe at Matakohe – allow at least 2 hours, some visitors stay all day as there is so much to see such as huge slabs of kauri, the largest collection of kauri gum in the world, and how the early settlers lived – a museum not to be missed. Close to The Kauri Museum is the delightful Matakohe House – a purpose built boutique Bed and Breakfast property which has a licensed café open 7 days a week.

Evening meals also available. Delicious food and wonderful hosts.

Dargaville is approx. 45 minutes north of Matakohe and enroute you will see the pointed peak of Tokatoka, a 20 minutes climb and the more rounded peak of Maungaraho, a 45 minute climb that’s a little more challenging. On arrival in Dargaville make the Dargaville and Kauri Coast Visitor Information Centre your first stop – pick up a town map, ask about what to see, where to stay, tours to do and get information on any special events/markets happening or any special accommodation deals available. They can also assist with travel arrangements for further afield. Pick up some discount vouchers, free maps, guides etc.

Adjacent to the Visitor Information Centre is the studio of world famous wood turner Rick Taylor, The Woodturners Kauri Gallery and Studio where you will see top quality ancient kauri bowls, platters and other works of art he has turned from the amazing Ancient Kauri wood which he sourced from swampland on the Kauri Coast. He also offers woodturning tuition if you would like to start a new hobby and you can purchase slabs/bowl blanks/pen blanks etc to take home.

Just behind The Woodturners Kauri Gallery and Studio is the newly opened Dargaville Park Over - an ideal stopover spot if you are traveling in a self-contained motorhome, campervan or rv – (includes one power site). All weather sites with river views and on the Historic River Walk route and very reasonably priced at only $15 per van ($13.50 for NZMCA) Power extra $3.

There is a choice of accommodation options in Dargaville and the surrounding areas from farm stays, homestays, campervan parks, bed & breakfasts, motels, hotels, backpackers, cottages, studios and lodges – something to suit all tastes.

Visit the Dargaville Museum situated in Harding Park, Dargaville. Great views from up on the hill at Mt Wesley. Learn the fascinating stories of the Kauri Coast region. See the Rainbow Warrior masts and wander around the magnificent displays including parts of shipwrecks recovered from the coastline including the French warship L’Alcmene (wrecked in 1851). There is the newly opened Kaipara Vintage Machinery Club adjacent to the Dargaville Museum, again well worth a visit.

Be entertained at the Kumara Box during the 1 hour show, see the tiny chapel, the weta cave and much more. Individual travelers and groups welcome. Morning/afternoon tea and light lunch available but must be prebooked.

MUSEUMSKAURI & GALLERIES COAST

Baylys Beach, approx 12km north/west of Dargaville is part of the main coastline called Ripiro Beach. A longer beach than 90 mile beach, suitable for 4wd vehicles, great place to catch your evening meal and sit and relax and watch the sunset.

Accommodation available at Baylys Beach - Baylys Beach Holiday Park offers a full range of accommodation options including tent, power, and cabins up to self-contained cottages.

You may also consider Sunset View Lodge, a fabulous modern lodge with accommodation on 2 levels. Perhaps enjoy a dip in their pool. Breakfast included in their rates. Walking distance to 2 cafes and an easy stroll to the beach.

The crystal clear waters of the Kai Iwi Lakes at Taharoa Domain are very popular both for day trippers and campers. You can walk around the lakes or out to the coastline of Ripiro Beach.

Visit the ancient kauri trees in the Waipoua Kauri Forest – only

Matakohe House

Boutique Bed & Breakfast Hotel and Licensed Café. Closest accommodation to the famous Kauri Museum. All rooms have ensuites. Delicious home style food in 7 days a week Café and evening meals. Delightful and caring hosts.

Church Road, Matakohe P: 64 9 431 7091 E: mathouse@xtra.co.nz

1 hours’ drive from Dargaville. Guided night walks available – ask at the Visitor Information Centre.

Plan to stay more than one night on the Kauri Coast – explore the magnificent kauri trees in the Waipoua Kauri Forest and Trounson Kauri Park – don’t miss Tane Mahuta the largest kauri tree, maybe do a quad range guided tour to the Kaipara Lighthouse, or a kumara farm/show, see the weta cave , do a cruise on the Northern Wairoa River, a walk along New Zealand’s longest drivable beach – Ripiro Beach, swim in the fresh water Kai Iwi Lakes, play a round of golf, take a flying lesson, a wood turning lesson or art lesson. There is a fresh fruit and veggie market on Thursday afternoons in Dargaville.

There is so much natural beauty on the Kauri Coast – and it doesn’t cost a lot of money to enjoy.

See you soon.

Baylys Beach Holiday Park

Explore the west coast. Accommodation to fit all budgets, tent & power sites, ensuite cabins & cottages. Handy to beach, golf course, cafes.

Quad bike hire, fishing, surfing, horse riding.

24 Seaview Road, Baylys Beach P: 09 439 6349 or 0800 229597 E: motorcamp@baylysbeach.co.nz

www.matakohehouse.co.nz

www.baylysbeach.co.nz

The Woodturners Studio

Dargaville and Kauri Coast Visitor Centre

Visit Rick Taylor’s studio and marvel at the stunning Ancient Kauri bowls, platters, hollow pots, pens, clocks and more. Woodturning tuition, tools, blanks also available.

Touch, smell & experience the best Ancient Kauri in New Zealand.

4 Murdoch St on State Highway 12, Dargaville P: 09 439 4975 E: kauri4u@xtra.co.nz

Ask the experts – we are here to help with all your travel requirements. Free advice, maps, guides and booking service for accommodation, tours, coach, ferries etc. Collect discount vouchers.

4 Murdoch St on SH12, Dargaville P: 09 439 4975 E: kauriinfo@xtra.co.nz

www.thewoodturnersstudio.co.nz

www.kauriinfocentre.co.nz

KUMERA BOX

DARGAVILLE MUSEUM

Ernie will take you on a journey in to the history of the kumara - sweet potato. Option to include the kumara train ride. Bookings essential.

Take time out to absorb the fascinating stories of the Kauri Coast. Open every day (except Christmas Day).

Summer: 9am to 5pm.

Winter: 9am to 4pm 32 Mt Wesley Coast Road Dargaville Ph: 09 439 7555 Campervans welcome

503 Pouto Road, Dargaville P: 09 439 7018 E: kumarabox@xtra.co.nz

www.kumarabox.co.nz

Paparoa Motor Camp Small friendly motor camp, Motel units, cabins, campervan and tent sites walking distance to village and restaurants. 10mins drive to Matakohe Museum and Pahi Beach. On the loop for new village walking track.

17 Pahi Road RD1, Paparoa P: 09 431 6515 E: paparoamotorcamp@xtra.co.nz

DARGAVILLE PARK OVER

River & rural views, all weather level site.

Stay 1 night or longer. Friendly hosts.Walking distance to Dargaville township & Dargaville Museum. Adjacent to Visitor Info Centre & The Woodturners Kauri Gallery. Rates - $15 per van per night ($13.50 for NZMCA) 71 River Road, Dargaville P: 09 4394975 E: kauriinfo@xtra.co.nz

Sunsetview Lodge

Purpose built luxury lodge with 6 ensuite units.

Relax in the pool, in the guest lounge or on the deck and marvel at the spectacular sunsets.

Breakfast included. Take a walk on the beach, do a horse trek or just read a book.

7 Alcemene Lane, RD7, Baylys Beach P: 64 9 439 4342 E: stay@sunsetviewlodge.co.nz

www.dargavillemuseum.co.nz

www.sunsetviewlodge.co.nz

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COROMANDEL

Good for the soul The Coromandel region has long led the way in the sustainable development of tourism in New Zealand since developing one of New Zealand’s first regional sustainable tourism strategies in the early 1990’s.

SHBOI_OnBoard_Half_TBREAK_fromDEC13toFEB14.pdf 1 18/10/2013

The Coromandel was once plundered for its natural resources, gold, trees and seafood, and while remnants of its past still exist in the museums, the region has taken hold of sustainability and ran with it.

So when you visit this place, not only do you leave feeling physically refreshed, your soul can feel good too.

The Coromandel has earned itself the status of a high quality visitor destination built around a unique Maori early settlement and gold mining heritage which has proved a fertile ground from which a world class creative sector and world renowned artists have grown.

The region itself has earned a global reputation for its exceptional landscapes and exceptional people. Boasting golden and white sand beaches, breathtaking coastal scenery and Marine Reserve married with a rugged protected forest park covering most of the region, the natural attractions here make it hard for visitors to not want to return time and time again.

A three day road trip will allow enough time to see why The Coromandel is where kiwi’s holiday. But plan for longer if you want to 11:51:04 a.m. enjoy it as the locals do.

SCENIC HOTEL BAY OF ISLANDS

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Take a Break... We’ve got you covered this Summer.

Take a break with Scenic Hotel Bay of Islands and receive a daily $80 Restaurant credit, a bottle of Villa Maria wine upon arrival and enjoy a late check out of 12pm.

189

$

FROM

*

INCL GST

CMY

INCLUDES DAILY

PER NIGHT AT SCENIC HOTEL BAY OF ISLANDS

*Rate advertised applies to stays until 25 December 2013. However the promotion is valid until 30 April 2014 and rates are subject to seasonal change and availability. For full Terms & Conditions, please refer to deal page on our website.

Book online: www.scenichotels.co.nz or call 0800 NZ OWNED (69 69 63) AUCKLAND | BAY OF ISLANDS | CHRISTCHURCH | DUNEDIN | FOX GLACIER | FRANZ JOSEF GLACIER | GORE | HAAST | MARLBOROUGH | NAPIER | QUEENSTOWN | TONGA

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COROMANDEL

Where to stay in The Coromandel On the Beach Backpackers

Scenic Motels

On The Beach Backpackers Lodge is located right on Buffalo Beach where hosts Stephen and Richard will give you a warm welcome. Stunning views of Mercury Bay make this an ideal place to take a break. Make use of the free kayaks and boogie boards or borrow our spades for digging at Hot Water Beach.

Hire a mountain bike from us to explore the area, or ask us about the many beautiful walks to be enjoyed.

Expansive sub-tropical gardens and extensive guest facilities available at Scenic Hotel Bay of Islands enhance the welcoming atmosphere of this resort-style hotel. It’s the perfect base from which to explore the beautiful and historic Bay of Islands.

Situated at the entrance to the seaside town of Paihia, it’s a pleasant stroll into town to the main wharf, visitor activities, fine dining and shopping.

Admiralty Lodge Admiralty Lodge is an absolute beachfront accommodation property and the only Qualmark rated Five Star accommodation in Whitianga and the Coromandel Peninsula.

They have everything you require for an exceptional and enjoyable vacation. Enjoy the spectacular views across beautiful Mercury Bay and Buffalo Beach while you relax in the comfort of your spacious and well-appointed accommodation.

Albert Number 6 Motel Attractive and comfortable, Albert Number 6 Motel is a motel/ B&B/Conference facility with great hospitality, situated only a minute’s walk from the fabulous Buffalo Beach, Whitianga, on the Pacific Coast of the Coromandel. There are 16 units with queen sized beds - 4 with extra room and three quarter beds, accommodating either 20 singles or 20 doubles.

ON THE BEACH

Albert Number 6 Motel is a Budget Motel that is situated close to beautiful beaches on the Pacific coast of Coromandel. It is the ideal choice for leisure travellers, couples, families, and backpackers looking for affordable and convenient accommodations.

B A C K PA C K E R S

Let us help you to discover our paradise.

We know the best beaches, bush walks, bars, restaurants and cafes. You’re welcome to use our free kayaks and boogie boards to use on beautiful Buffalo Beach right across the road or hire our bikes to explore Hot water Beach and Cathedral Cove.

We cater for all your needs with internet, wireless, telephone, laundry, bikes, kayaks, boogie boards, fishing rods, BBQ. We also do forward accommodation and travel bookings.

• Backpackers with shared kitchen and bathroom facilities.

• Variety of room types, 12 bed bunk dorm, 4 share bunk room, 1 single room, 1 ensuite, twin and double rooms.

• Pricing from $26 per person, Private rooms from $45 to $96 • 10 minutes walk from town along Buffalo Beach.

• All buses stop at the gate.

• Free Kayaks (weather dependent) Free Boogie Boards - Bike Rentals • Limited FREE WiFi • We can an arrange trips to various activities. - boat trips, horse riding, and bus trips to Cathedral Cove and Hot water beach (season dependent)

46 Buffalo Beach Road, Whitianga P: 07 866 5380

Admiralty Lodge is a superb beachfront accommodation, the only Qualmark rated Five Star in the Coromandel Peninsula.

Spacious One Bedroom and Studio units, all with seaviews, full kitchens, unlimited free WiFi, most with Spabaths, year around heated pool, sumptuous breakfast available, close to town.

69 Buffalo Beach Road, Whitianga Ph: 07 866 0181 Freephone: 0508 236 472

www.admiraltylodge.co.nz

Budget Motel with 16 units - 5, 2 room units - 3 queen units - 1 family bunk room - 7 twin rooms - 1 large 10 bed bunk room. Units are all ensuite and contain, microwave, kettle, fridge, TV. Pricing: $120 for two people extra person $20 each.

Dorm $30 per person.

A light breakfast of toast and cereal is included in the price except for large dorm.

6 Albert Street, Whitianga P: 07 866 5380

www.albertnumber6.co.nz 19

AUCKLAND

Visit Auckland with no time, a bit of time or plenty!

No matter how much time you have to spend in Auckland, there is something for you to enjoy! Take a walk through the urban sprawl, head to the Northern Bays, or take a trip a bit further out of town.

No matter what you choose to do, you will fall in love with Auckland.

Whether you have no time at all, a little bit or plenty, there is an itinerary to suit you!

In the heart of Auckland City, with a relaxed pacific vibe by day and a night time pulse shared by the inner-city suburbs that surround it, take some time to enjoy!

“I have no time”: Blow out the cobwebs with a spin around the Waitemata Harbour on a jet boat or experience the thrill of sailing an America’s Cup yacht. If you are feeling really brave you can bungy off the Auckland Harbour Bridge or try a controlled base jump off the Sky Tower!

Or enjoy a spot of shopping in the heart of Auckland City – explore designer shops tucked away in and around High Street.

Discover an eclectic mix of shops and vibrant al fresco cafes in Chancery’s cobblestone plaza. And visit Elliott Stables’ gourmet food village for a selection of treats.

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Check-out Britomart’s vibrant shopping, entertainment and business precinct. Surrounded by heritage buildings discover a buzzing neighbourhood of restaurants, funky bars, designer boutiques and art spaces.

“I have a bit of time”: A morning or afternoon at Auckland Zoo is always a fantastic experience. The beautifully designed enclosures make you feel like you’re in the animals’ natural habitat. Discover, imagine and explore the stars above at the Stardome Observatory and Planetarium, or the depths below at Kelly Tarlton’s Antarctic Encounter and Underwater World.

Next stop is the popular beachside suburb of Mission Bay – throw a ball around in the park and enjoy fish and chips and an ice cream on the beach. Or relax in one of the popular bars or cafes for a refreshing drink.

For dinner, head out to one of the amazing restaurants for a delicious NZ meal.

AUCKLAND

NAU MAI, HAERE MAI Take a step back in time and learn traditional Māori customs as your personal guide takes you on a magical journey from Te Hana contemporary world, to the ancient realm of Te Hana Te Ao Marama 17th Century Māori Village and Fortified Paa Site. Peak & Off-Peak season prices and times available (conditions do apply).

EXPERIENCE OUR: Guided Tours, Te Ahi Kaa Gallery, Village Cafe & Overnight Stay E: bookings@tehana.co.nz

P: 0064 9 423 8701

www.tehana.co.nz

PUHOI RIVER CANOE HIRE “I have plenty of time”: Indulge your cultural side and visit New Zealand’s largest art collection at the newly redeveloped Auckland Art Gallery. Learn about the sacred tribal history, traditions and ancient stories of the local Ngati Whatua tribe on the Tamaki Hikoi (Auckland Walk).

Or explore the latest exhibitions and the stories of Aotearoa at the Auckland Museum in the Domain. Take a trip through Maori history at Te Ahi Kaa Gallery. If you are feeling adventurous, head out to the Puhoi River and hire a canoe to explore the 8km of winding water.

In the evening, enjoy dinner up the Sky Tower and the beautiful sunset and city lights, or head to the popular Viaduct and Wynyard Quarter precincts to take-in the glittering water, shining yachts and stylish harbourside restaurants.

We offer a safe leisurely unguided kayak adventure paddling on the Puhoi River which meanders 8km(2hrs) from the Historic Puhoi Village to the scenic Wenderholm Regional Park. We supply full instruction, superior equipment and a return courtesy shuttle.

We have Kayaks or Canoes to suit everyone. No Experience necessary.

BOOKINGS ESSENTIAL Open 1 Sept - 30 June

Want to head out a little further; here are some ideas for a trip to the Northern Bays!

“I have no time”: The parks and beaches of the North Shore lend themselves nicely to a stroll or hike on a sunny day. Explore the 45 hectares of bush land around the Chelsea Sugar Refinery in Birkenhead, or stretch your legs along the Takapuna to Milford coastal walk which follow the heritage trail. At low tide the route follows a mixture of paved promenade, beach and lava rocks and is a walk enjoyed by many Aucklanders.

Enjoy an ice cream on Takapuna Beach or a coffee and local art at the Pumphouse Theatre or visit Lake Pupuke – a favourite spot for rowing, sailing and canoeing.

84 Puhoi Rd, Puhoi Village, Auckland P: 09 422 0891 M: 027 284 1672

www.puhoirivercanoes.co.nz 21

AUCKLAND

“I have a bit of time”: Take the 12-minute ferry ride from downtown Auckland and stroll around the art galleries, book shops and cafes of old Devonport.

This captivating maritime village by the sea is also home to New Zealand’s naval base where you can visit the museum to learn about the country’s naval heritage.

Take a little time to enjoy lunch at one of the cafes in the village centre. Next take a walk – or even a segway tour to the top of Mt Victoria and North Head. These volcanic cones offer stunning 360-degree views from the city to the Hauraki Gulf Islands. On North Head kids of all ages will love exploring the gun emplacements and tunnels.

“I have plenty of time”: If you are visiting on a Sunday, you can gather everything you want for an amazing picnic lunch from the Orewa Beach Farmers’ Market. Then head to either Shakespear Regional Park on Whangaparaoa Peninsula or picturesque Wenderholm, just north of Waiwera. Both are coastal parks offering great walks with beaches, stunning views, heritage sites and any number of perfect picnic spots. Fire up one of the barbeques and enjoy a delicious feast or play games on the grass.

At the end of the day, enjoy a relaxing soak in the mineral pools at Waiwera. These natural thermal pools are a great place to unwind and relax.

Experience a Taste of Europe in the Heart of Auckland!

Truly an experience like no other, Belgian Beer Cafes are renowned for delicious menus, welcoming atmospheres and a huge range of some of the most sought after beers including Westvleteren 12 the best beer in the world!

We recommend grabbing a spot by the fire or on one of their sunny decks with a frothing Belgian beer and sampling some of their world-renowned signature mussels, fresh from the Coromandel and served steaming in traditional pots.

The Occidental Belgian Beer Cafe 6-8 Vulcan Lane, CBD T: 09 3006226

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De Post Belgian Beer Cafe 466 Mt Eden Rd, Mt Eden T: 09 630 9330

De Fontein Belgian Beer Cafe 75-79 Tamaki Drive, Mission Bay T: 09 578 3327

For more information: visit www.aucklandnz.com

The Munster Inn A bar so authentically Irish, it’s as if it’s travelled 20,000km straight from the homeland and was just conveniently dropped in the heart of Auckland city centre on the corner of Queen and Wellesley Streets. Experience the Hundred Thousand Welcomes. CÉAD MÍLE FÁILTE. The great craic, atmosphere, live music and food makes the Munster Inn a proper genuine Irish bar.

Munster Inn Irish Bar 1, Wellesley Street West Auckland CBD www.munsterinn.co.nz

AUCKLAND

Leap out, drop in!

Welcome to the Central North Island! Did you know this is the best place in the country to skydive?

Jumping while you’re here means you get to take advantage of the best scenery, the best experienced jump masters, and the best prices.

25 individually designed rooms in the heart of Auckland’s fashion & business district - Rated No1 hotel in Australasia on Expedia Insider’s Select List 2013.

High St Auckland hoteldebrett.com

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Young or old, novice or pro, Skydive Taupo and Skydive Auckland jump everybody. The experience of skydiving is like no other. An exhilarating freefall of up to 1 minute paired with a scenic canopy ride. From start to finish you are in a world of your own, and when you land, the feeling is immense! Everyone on the plane has their own special memory, but you share the sense of achievement in accomplishing your first skydive.

Your Skydive Master’s focus is on making your experience an unforgettable encounter that is second to none. Choose from a variety of camera options for filming your experience, right down to customised music.

Skydive Taupo offer a new service for visitors to Rotorua who may not be planning a stop in Taupo. They offer a free return shuttle service operating daily, that picks you up from your Rotorua accommodation and gets you back by around 2pm in the afternoon. If there is room onboard, spectators are also welcome but make sure you mention this when booking.

Get your adventure on in Auckland or Taupo and leap from the bright pink plane!

Toi Aotearoa presenting sponsor

Eugène von Guérard Lake Wakatipu with Mount Earnslaw, Middle Island, New Zealand 1877–1879 Mackelvie Trust Collection, Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki Purchased 1971 See this work in Toi Aotearoa

New Zealand art: A summer showcase of new exhibitions and special events

AUCKLAND GALLERY

Auckland Art Gallery this summer Set in the heart of the city and next to Albert Park, Auckland Art Gallery has plenty to offer this summer – and it’s all for free. Browse the world’s largest permanent collection of New Zealand art at your leisure or join one of the free daily Gallery tours for an insight into the history of the award-winning building and the artwork on show. Families will enjoy the Creative Learning Centre where kids of all ages can get hands on and create their own work of art for free. The Gallery café is a comfortable place to recharge and relax with a delicious seasonal menu, so take time out for brunch and coffee or relax with a glass of New Zealand wine and platter of nibbles.

The building alone is worth a visit with iconic Kauri canopies and glass-filled atriums that blend with the original Gallery built in 1888. The Gallery was most recently awarded the World Building of the Year award at the World Architecture Festival.

Auckland Art Gallery is open daily from 10am – 5pm, except Christmas Day. Make it your must-see destination when visiting Auckland. work Propositions investigates alternative lifestyles, while Tessa Laird’s brightly coloured ceramics examine the psychology of colour and the growth of new ideas in her work, Politics of Ecstasy. In addition to the artworks on show, there’s a full programme of free events throughout the summer with a mix of performances, guest lectures, special events and ongoing artist talks. Until 23 February 2014. Free.

Explore New Zealand art across four centuries in Toi Aotearoa.

The exhibition covers everything from Steve Carr’s 2003 Smoke Train video to the first European painting of New Zealand – William Hodges’ painting A View in Dusky Bay – from 1773, and taonga (treasures) created by Maori. See well-known New Zealand artists such as Colin McCahon, Ralph Hotere, Frances Hodgekins and Rita Angus. A highlight of the exhibition is the lifelike 19th-century portraits by C F Goldie and Gottfried Lindauer. Experience for yourself the power of tattooed Maori chiefs and examine early-day settlers resplendent in their ‘Sunday best’. On now. Free.

Freedom Farmers: New Zealand Artist Growing Ideas features the work of 20 leading Kiwi artists and gives an up-to-the-minute snapshot of contemporary art in New Zealand today. There’s a wide range of work from video to photography, painting to sculpture and large-scale installations. The exhibition celebrates New Zealand’s culture of invention, forward thinking and liberty.

Wayne Barrar’s striking photographic series of Stewart Island is nature photography at its best, offering a rare view of one of New Zealand’s more remote places. Artist Xin Chen’s sculptural

Kinder’s Presence After emigration to New Zealand, the British Reverend Doctor John Kinder became well known in Auckland as an Anglican clergyman, military chaplain and teacher. In his private life, he was a prolific amateur painter and photographer.

Kinder’s Presence includes a selection of the artist’s 19thcentury watercolours and photographs presented alongside 21st-century works by New Zealand photographers Mark Adams, Chris Corson-Scott and Haruhiko Sameshima. Like Kinder these contemporary artists use large-scale negatives that can render minute detail. These artists’ interest in, and respect for, Kinder is revealed in their return to places and subjects that Kinder painted or photographed. Until 31 March 2014. Free.

For more information: about what’s on at Auckland Art Gallery or to plan your visit go to www.aucklandartgallery.com 26

HAMILTON

Humble Hamilton Just south of Auckland lies the Hamilton-Waikato region; a land of lush pastures and fertile soils that was chosen to play The Shire in The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit films.

Well-known for its underground wonders, black sand surf beaches and rolling green hills, the Hamilton-Waikato region of New Zealand offers a wealth of nature-based activities and attractions surrounding a vibrant city hub.

If you’re a Tolkien fan, drive east to Matamata and visit Hobbiton Movie Set, the amazing Hobbit-sized village created for the movies. Or if surfing is more your style, then Raglan is the perfect spot for you, with one of the longest left hand breaks in the world.

For a magical underground experience, drive south to Waitomo Caves, where the natural beauty of stalactites and stalagmites lit by the blue light of glowworms will take your breath away; or for those seeking more of an adrenalin rush, black water rafting and abseiling are not to be missed.

Known for its scenic diversity, the Hamilton-Waikato region offers a myriad of options for those keen on walking, hiking and cycling, from casual strolls along the Waikato River to overnight bush excursions and winding mountain biking tracks.

A popular spot is Maungatautari Ecological Reserve, which allows walkers to experience the New Zealand forest as it was hundreds of years ago, thanks to the special predator-free environment.

The city of Hamilton boasts stunning gardens, plentiful shopping and a popular nightlife and restaurant scene including award-winning eateries and exciting entertainment. With abundant accommodation, Hamilton is the perfect base for exploring the wider region.

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HAMILTON

A few fun Hobbity facts: • When Peter Jackson spotted the Alexander Farm during an aerial search of the North Island he immediately thought it was perfect for Hobbiton.

• Site construction started in March 1999 and filming commenced in December that year, continuing for three months.

• Thirty-seven hobbit holes were created with untreated timber, ply and polystyrene.

• The Mill and double arch bridge were built out of scaffolding, ply and polystyrene, then glued and painted.

Chloes Motor Inn offers 14 spacious ground floor units, comprising a selection of Studio, 1 bedroom & 2 bedroom units.

Swimming and Spa pool for your enjoyment An easy stroll to the CBD, Waikato Stadium, cricket ground, casino & supermarket.

Chloes Motor Inn &Conference Centre 181 Ulster Street, Hamilton, P: 07 839 3410 Reservations: 0800 245 637

www.chloes.co.nz

• Thatch on the pub and mill roofs was cut from rushes around the Alexander farm.

• Catering was organised for up to 400 people a day, with three 2-course meals required for all of the cast and crew.

Hobbits in Hamilton Being New Zealand’s largest inland city, situated on the banks of the Waikato River, (the country’s longest river) Hamilton offers a vibrant combination of fine dining and nightlife options as well as an electric mix of leisure, lifestyle and activity choices.

From magnificent parks and gardens to a thriving cultural precinct, this city boasts a welcoming spirit, rich history and contrasting splendours that await many a visitor.

And, being in the hub of central North Island, visitors have easy access to many of the regions attractions such as Waitomo Caves, Raglan’s surf coast and the historic Te Aroha Mineral Pools.

For fans of The Hobbit and Lord of the Rings, you really can’t go past a stop in Hamilton. Because not too far from here is the real Middle-Earth; perhaps the most picturesque farmland in NZ and the Hobbiton Movie Set. Appearing in both The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit film trilogy, this completely rebuilt film set is prepped and ready for all to see and 2 hour tours are available. And because the Hobbiton Movie Set is located on a real New Zealand farm, the non-fans can still have a great time cuddling and bottle feeding the pet lambs.

There are also spectacular views across to the Kaimai Ranges from the rolling green hills of the movie set, which is still a working sheep and beef farm.

For more information: visit www.hobbitontours.com

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TARANAKI

Taranaki; like no other If you can imagine a place where windswept surf breaks crash into the sand, nearby farm land and legendary mountains; a place where gardens catch the eyes of passer-bys and rich colonial history and local culture is in abounds, then you might be able to imagine Taranaki.

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taranaki

When visiting New Plymouth for Business or pleasure, The Copthorne Hotel Grand Central is the place to stay. Our Hotel offers the best in Accommodation and Dining.

CBD Location / Free Parking GCR Restaurant / Breakfast and Dinner TSB Showplace 4mins walk Pukekura Park 5mins walk Mt Taranaki 30mins drive Beaches 5mins walk Coastal walkway 5mins walk Huatoki Walkway 5mins walk

RANGE OF ROOMS STANDARD TO APARTMENT. DINE AT NEW PLYMOUTH’S GCR RESTAURANT

E: office@grandcentralhotel.co.nz P: 06 758 7495 42 Powderham Street NEW PLYMOUTH

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Take in these stunning views at Okurukuru Cafe & Restaurant

Taranaki is a region ‘like no other’. A place where there is no shortage of things to see and things to do. And a place where it’s easy to get lost in the beauty and intrigue the region offers. All you have to do is ask the locals and they will happily give you the must do list!

Despite upheaval in the old days and the turbulent decade-long Taranaki Land Wars of the 1860s, the region has managed to retain its understated charm, gentle laid-back character and has emerged as one of New Zealand’s untapped tourism destinations.

Roads snake their way around green fertile lowlands with toy-like towns scattered throughout. Stop and take a look, there is a little magic everywhere here.

And if you are into adventure, you can find that too.

How many places can you snowboard in the morning and surf that same afternoon?

Maybe the next day you want to take a hike? You can in Taranaki. Want to get the adrenaline pumping with river rafting or meander along the New Plymouth coastal walkway and see the Wind Wand? Want to behold the stunning rhododendron in the gardens spotted throughout the towns? Want to simply sit back with a refreshing organic beer at Mikes Organic Brewery after a day of museum and gallery hopping? You can do that too. In fact, the reason why they say Taranaki is like no other is because it is. This place is bursting at the seams with things to keep you entertained, relaxed and happily content.

taranaki

not to miss Egmont National Park: With more than 300 kilometres of scenic walking tracks, Egmont National Park is a dream destination for enthusiastic hikers. While you’re here, be sure to visit the magnificent Mount Taranaki, an active volcano.

Sugar Loaf Islands and Marine Park: The Sugar Loaf Islands are remnants of a large volcano active nearly two million years ago. Here you can encounter seals and other stunning marine life.

Surf Hughway 45: Taranaki’s hemispherical coast collects 180 degrees of ocean swells. You can be almost certain that the surf will be pumping between New Plymouth and Hawera.

Whitecliffs Walkway: Discover the famous white cliffs and Three Sisters rock formations then walk the hand-hewn Te Horo tunnel.

New Plymouth Coastal Walkway: An 11km path that forms an expansive sea-edge promenade stretching from Port Taranaki to Hickford Park ideal for walking, running, cycling, skating, or just to enjoy the view of the dramatic west coast.

Goblin Forest and Wilkies Pool: Follow the path into the Goblin Forest and let your imagination run wild. Goblins, elves, hobbits - they’d all be at home here.

Pukekura Park: Often described as the jewel in New Plymouth’s crown, Pukekura Park covers 52ha right in the heart of the city and is one of New Zealand’s premier botanical gardens.

We tan naturally (no chemicals) manufacture and make on site Possum Fur and Leather products. We sell a big range of Possum products ie; Possum rugs, pillows, Footwear, Possum hats, scarves, Jackets & Vests.

Possum Leather bags & accessories.

We also sell a wide range of Merino & Possum Merino Knitwear and assessories.

Open 7 days Mon to Fri 9am - 5pm Sat & Sun 10am - 4pm Tours by arrangement Environmental Products (NZ) Ltd The Possum Factory 1103 Opunake Rd, Stratford P: 06 7646133 E: pennie@envirofur.co.nz

www.envirofur.co.nz 31

South Taranaki Alive with opportunity

Aotea Utanganui - Museum of South Taranaki Egmont St, Patea Open Monday to Saturday, 10am-4pm - Free Admission

Mike’s Organic Brewery Taranaki’s award winning brewery welcomes visitors with a big beer bottle at the entrance off SH 3.

Surf Highway 45

Drive iconic Surf Highway 45 to dozens of world class surf breaks

Tawhiti Museum

401 Ohangai Road, Hawera www.tawhitimuseum.co.nz

Beautiful parks & reserves Cape Egmont Lighthouse District-wide, be sure to visit South Taranaki’s premier park, King Edward Park in Hawera

Rotokare Scenic Reserve & Wildlife Santuary www.rotokare.org.nz

Cape Road, Opunake

Hawera’s Water Tower & South Taranaki i-SITE 55 High Street, Hawera T: (06) 278 8599

Mike’s Organic Brewery is on the Taranaki 50 must do’s list and is 30 minutes from New Plymouth, just north of Urenui village, where part of the name means big – the other part, you need to ask the locals about.

Mike’s Beers are big on flavour; the Porters all won medals at this year’s NZ Brewers Guild Awards. The popular Organic Imperial Porter, 8% ABV is sold in special 750 ml bottles. The eight Certified Organic beers, were recently joined by mike’s Illegitimate Sons range, these beers share the same father and are still brewed naturally, but aren’t Certified Organic.

Mike’s is the oldest craft brewery in New Zealand, brewing continuously on the same site since 1989.

Although still in the small brewery category, production has increased steadily by 30% every year for the past seven years under the stewardship of the current family owners. The philosophy being to brew beers that you can get your teeth into, jam packed with flavour.

The best place to buy mike’s Beers is from the brewery, where you can stock up on real Craft Beer.

The brewery shop is open 7 days from 10 am to 5pm, where you can have a taste of the beers and take home a case of your favorites.

Over the summer holidays and on the weekends, mike’s Tasting Room Café is open during the same hours.

487 Mokau Road, RD 44, Urenui, Taranaki P: 06 752 3676 Shop, Cafe, Beergarden Open 10am to 6pm 7 days a week

For more things to see and do, visit

www.southtaranaki.com

www.organicbeer.co.nz

HAWKE’s BAY

Meet the many regions of Hawke’s Bay Hawke’s Bay is one of New Zealand’s warmest, driest regions and this has made it one of the country’s leading producers red wines – cabernet sauvignon, merlot and syrah! But there is so much more to see and do here. It’s a place where you can shop at the farmers’ market for locally grown delicacies, indulge in artisan gourmet food, walk the forest trails of the Ruahine and Kaweka Forest Parks, visit the Cape Kidnappers gannet colony or relax on the glorious beaches that stretch along the coast. Let me introduce you to the many regions of fabulous Hawkes Bay. Mahia Peninsula Part of Northern Hawkes Bay, the Mahia Peninsula is surrounded by the deep blue and crystal clear Pacific Ocean, which breaks onto a mix of black and white sandy and rocky beaches. Mahia Peninsula Scenic Reserve is one of the last large tracts of lowland coastal forest remaining on the East Coast. There are excellent camping spots at Mahia Beach and near Whangawehi Harbour on the eastern side. There are several B&Bs, homestays and farmstays within the area. After a day on the golf course or the water, head inland via the Wairoa-Gisborne highway to the Morere Hot Springs. These are set in a nikau-predominant native bush reserve with superb walking tracks. After an easy or challenging bushwalk relax the muscles in one of several hot pools.

Havelock North Havelock North is the starting point for a number of experiences including driving, hiking or biking to the top of Te Mata Peak (400m), wine tours, and excursions to Waimarama or ocean beaches. Known as the village, Havelock North is named after Sir

Hendry Havelock, a British Major-General who was a hero of the Indian Mutiny in 1857. Today, Havelock North is a blend of old England, rural New Zealand and 21st Century cosmopolitan flair and colour.

Hastings District Hastings District is the centre for all things wine and food.

It covers a vast and scenic area boasting fabulous produce, traditional Farmers Markets and some of New Zealand’s finest wineries.

Shop and dine in the chic village of Havelock North and the stunning Spanish Mission city of Hastings. The areas of Te Awanga, Haumoana and Clifton are well worth a day excursion as are the beautiful white sandy beaches of Waimarama and Ocean Beach. The actual City/CBD of Hastings is home to cultural attractions such as the Hawkes Bay Opera House, many art galleries and a collection of impressive public art adorning the city streets. Stunning landscape scenery includes Te Mata Peak and the dramatic Cape Kidnappers, home of the world’s largest mainland 33

hawke’s bay

Napier is often referred to as the “Art Deco Capital of the World.

gannet colony and one of the top 50 golf courses in the world. Some must do’s when you are in Hastings include wine tastings in one of the 65 wineries found in the district, walk to the top of Te Mata Peak, a day in Havelock North, bike on one of the many trails, rise for an early morning hot air balloon ride, follow the Art Trail and have an ice cream at Rush Munro’s old fashion ice cream garden.

Ahuriri Ahuriri is a five-minute drive from downtown Napier. This bustling seaside village offers everything from a sandy beach and expansive boardwalk to waterfront cafes and restaurants, galleries, antique treasure houses, boutique stores and thriving businesses.

Home to the World Famous National Tobacco Building, you’ll also find funky bars housed in converted woolstores and modern apartments overlooking the inner harbour where fishing boats unload their fresh catch. Explore the estuary or wander along the walkway.

Watch sailboats and surfers riding the waves, and spot the occasional dolphins and whales that share these water.

Central Hawkes Bay

16 luxury rooms Airconditioned FREE Internet Quiet central location 50+ SKY channels Close to all Hawke’s Bay attractions

Encompassing the settlements of Waipukurau, Waipawa, Porangahau, Takapau, Otane, Ongaonga, Pukehou and Tikokino, Central Hawkes Bay’s natural beauty stretches from the mountain slopes of the Ruahine Ranges to vast sandy beaches of the Pacific Ocean.

The area boasts much to see and do with fabulous trout fishing, walking and cycling tracks. On the Central Hawkes Bay coast you can ride a horse, snorkel, dive, catch fish, waterski, surf or explore Te Angiangi Marine Reserve, established in 1997 and running from Blackhead Beach to Aramoana. The towns and villages of Central Hawke’s Bay provide enchanting traces of early settlement to the region.

Taradale Taradale is located just 10 minutes south of Napier Airport and is centrally located to Hastings, Napier and Havelock North. Taradale offers a unique shopping experience with a great mix of cafes, bars, restaurants and retailers all located within walking distance of each other. Taradale is also home to Mission Estate and Church Road-two of New Zealand’s oldest and finest wineries

Napier

www.ballinamotel.co.nz 393 Gloucester Street Taradale, Napier Reservations: 0508 22 55 42

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Napier is a thriving seaside town, with a population of 58,100. Home to the Port of Napier and known worldwide as the Art Deco Capital, every year more than 20,000 people opt to take a guided walk through its streets. Supported by a Mediterranean climate this popular year-round destination boasts a vibrant cafe culture. For the shopper there are high street and boutique stores to browse in, as well as antique shops, art galleries, and studios of potters, wood turners and craftsman. Napier was rebuilt in the early 1930s, following an earthquake which measured 7.8 on the Richter scale. The new buildings reflected the styles

hawke’s bay

of the times - Stripped Classical, Spanish Mission, and Art Deco – as well as incorporating some unique Maori motifs. Art Deco aficionados also opt to visit in February during the annual festival weekend, or in July for the Deco Decanted weekend celebration.

    

For more information: visit www.hawkesbaynz.com

beautiful naturally

    

To create our Wild Ferns range we didn’t need to search the world for secret ingredients and recipes, the freshness of New Zealand is our inspiration. Wild Ferns products are unique and honest, with a special element of difference – just like our country.

Our luxurious Manuka Honey skincare features Active Manuka AAH (Antibacterial, Antioxidant Honey) 650+. High in antioxidants which neutralise free radicals and the highest natural antibacterial reading of 650+ makes this an especially beneficial honey to assist in the health and enhancement of your skin. Rich in minerals and vitamins and with the ability to hydrate, smooth and soften, the skin is rejuvenated and protected against the signs of premature ageing.

All Wild Ferns skincare is Paraben Free.

Available at Leading Gift, Pharmacy and Souvenir stores throughout New Zealand.

made in new zealand

for further information contact Parrs Products 0800 6944 387 parrs@parrs.co.nz

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WHANGANUI

“Mate” - “Sports Nut” “Petrol Head” - “Sir” If your friends call you any of the above you’ll find something you love in Whanganui this summer. With one of the most temperate climates in the world, Whanganui has a lot on during the warm summer months.

If your friends are motor sports fans (and you tag along for the ride) then Whanganui is where it’s all happening after Christmas.

The Cemetery Circuit Motorcycle Races are on Boxing Day and you won’t want to miss them. Get up close to the action and experience the southern hemisphere’s ‘Isle of Man’. This year watch Guy Martin, one of the big stars of the Isle of Man TT, along with several high-class imports, compete. On December 27 you can head out to the Jet Sprint Championships with some of the world’s best jet sprint teams in action. There’s plenty of action all day including ‘sudden death’ eliminations across a range of classes.

During January there’s a feast of sporting and cultural events for you to attend.

For the cricket-mad, the Wanganui Cricket Festival begins on January 3. The competition continues until January 26 and promises to deliver some high calibre age-group cricket.

Starting early in January (8 – 18) Opera is on the menu in Whanganui. Local cafés and restaurants provide a diverse range of ‘stages’ for performers, all you have to do is choose your establishment and enjoy the entertainment and the menu. This

year a River Opera Extravaganza will form part of Wanganui Opera Week, with singers performing on the historic riverboat Waimarie.

Anniversary weekend sees the city celebrate its heritage with three days of nostalgia at the Vintage Weekend. Attend the street markets or outdoor cinema, enjoy the parade of classic and unusual cars, or get the adrenaline pumping by entering, or just watching, the hair-raising trolley derby. If you’re more of a ‘sports nut’ then the Cooks Gardens Athletic Meet at the iconic Cooks Gardens is the place to be on Anniversary Monday.

During January and February get out with your friends and family and explore Whanganui and the greater region. Day trips, suburban walks, evening talks, ‘behind the scenes’ tours, and many other activities are organised under the Whanganui Summer Programme.

If you can’t decide what to choose and need somewhere to do your thinking visit any of the beaches or pick a swimming spot on the majestic Whanganui River. Kai Iwi and Castlecliff beaches are patrolled over the summer months and provide great swimming options. South Beach is recognised for its excellent fishing and surfing and is open to four-wheel drive vehicles. Once on any of the beaches there are great opportunities for beachcombing, walks or lazing in the sun.

We look forward to welcoming you to Whanganui this summer.

Have an eventful summer visit whanganuinz.com & download the FREE visitors guide

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Visit Ohakune and discover the hidden treasures of the World Heritage Tongariro National Park.

Nestled in the shelter of the majestic Mt Ruapehu, Ohakune offers everything you will need for a great getaway with a range of top accommodation, from backpackers to hotels, and an excellent array of restaurants and cafes.

This volcanic region is one of the most dramatic in NZ. The unique terrain of Mt Ruapehu is punctuated with ancient lava flows, glacial valleys, mountain streams, lahar paths, lush native forests, alpine flora and lakes set in alpine marshlands.

The forces of nature which have moulded this region evidence themselves throughout the surrounding landscapes and are yours to discover in walks on Mountain Road such as Lake Surprise and Waitonga Falls.

From Ohakune you can explore the full range of activities and attractions the region has to offer.

• Shuttles depart daily for The Tongariro Crossing • Start the Mountains to Sea Cycleway to Whanganui • Bike or walk The Ohakune Old Coach Road • Bike the Mungapurua valley to the iconic ‘Bridge to Nowhere’ • Helibiking • Canoe or jet boat on the Whanganui River • Explore the stunning walks off Mountain Road, with big views over the lower North Island • Walk the southern slopes of Mt Ruapehu to the North Island’s only living glacier • Fish for trout in the clear fast mountain rivers.

• Or just pamper yourself with a massage or facial, followed by dinner at one of the restaurants/cafes.

For more information: visit www.visitohakune.co.nz

AUCKLAND SH1

ROTORUA TAUPO Mt TONGARIRO Mt NGAURUHOE Mt RUAPEHU

WAIOURU WANGANUI

Location: Only 20 minutes drive off SH1 from Waiouru – see map (Or just get off the train at Ohakune!)

SH1

WELLINGTON

PHOTOS: Glyn Hubbard Photography

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TONGARIRO NATIONAL PARK

three mighty mountains World Heritage Tongariro National Park is an exciting adventure playground for hiking, biking, rafting, skiing, and a place of extremes! It’s the place where ‘tramping’ is king and beauty abounds.

The famous Tongariro Alpine Crossing tracks over the volcanic mass of Mt Tongariro. People come from all around the world to do the Tongariro Crossing, but there are many other wonderful walks from 10 minutes to 6 hours which are just as outstanding, some may even say better! The Skyline, Crater Lake and meads wall are all spectacular hikes starting high up at the Whakapapa ski field on Mt Ruapehu, the highest Mountain in the north island.

There are the summit trips to Mt Tongariro, Mt Ruapehu and Mt Ngauruhoe.

National Park Village borders the dual Tongariro National Park

to the east and the Whanganui National Park to the West, in the middle of a true wilderness wonderland. The Village is located near the base of Mt Ruapehu, at the intersection of SH4 & SH47 on the volcanic plateau, half way between Auckland and Wellington.

It boasts great views of all three mountains, Mt Tongariro, Mt Ngauruhoe (Mt Doom in the Lord of the Rings filming locations) and Mt Ruapehu - a unique dual world heritage area, 300,000 years in the making.

Mt Ngauruhoe, one of the other mighty mountains, has been active for at least 2,500 years. It has produced more than 70 eruptive episodes since 1839.

The majestic slopes of Mt Ruapehu, the third mountain, is one of New Zealand’s largest and most developed ski areas, Whakapapa and Turoa.

No matter what you want to see or do, if nature is what you are after, you can’t go wrong in National Park.

TONGARIRO NATIONAL PARK

Mountain Bike Hire and Transport out of National Park Village.

Guiding options available.

42 TRAVERSE 46km - Full Day FISHERS TRACK 18km to 28km - Half Day OLD COACH ROAD 15km - Half Day Contact Rick 0800 KMBIKES (0800 562 4537) E: info@kiwimountainbikes.co.nz

www.kiwimountainbikes.co.nz 38

WELLINGTON

Wonder of Wellington So what makes Wellington so special? Wellington’s a boutique city where excellent shopping, exciting galleries, great restaurants, cafes and bars are all just a hop, skip and a jump away. This cultured city is home to some of the slickest cocktail lounges, hippest party bars, best NZ fashion labels, theatres and beaches. And not that we like to name drop, but famous faces such as Peter Jackson, Anna Paquin, and the boys from Flight of the Conchords also hail from this fine city.

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WELLINGTON

photo: nicola edmonds

VISIT TOP SPOTS ON THE

WELLIN GTON C A BL E C A R

From culture to coffee, music to movie-making, Wellington’s sights and sounds will leave you wanting more.

If you’re into the outdoors this city’s got you covered with action-packed adventure activities, picturesque walks around the beautiful harbour and hills. Come celebrate the culture at Te Papa or come face-to-face with the closest living relative to a dinosaur at Zealandia. Get a taste of Wellywood at the Weta Cave movie museum or just watch the world go by at Oriental Bay, Wellington’s golden sand inner-city beach.

To get you started, here’s our list of what’s on in Wellington and things to do here in the world’s coolest little capital:

1. Discover the history at Te Papa

Ride the historic Cable Car from Lambton Quay to the top terminal in Kelburn and enjoy the stunning views of the harbour, the city and surrounding hills.

Visit the attractions nearby the Kelburn terminal: • Panoramic views of Wellington City and Harbour lookouts • Cable Car Museum • Krupp Gun (WW1) • Carter Observatory (New Zealand’s “Place for Space”)

Beautiful walks: Take one of the downhill walks through Wellington Botanic Garden, then via Parliament Grounds and the Beehive back to Lambton Quay in the City, shuttle/ walk to Zealandia or simply ride the cable car back again.

2. Enjoy 360-degree views from the top of Mount Victoria

(admission fee applies)

• The beautiful Botanic Garden with its picnic areas, great playground for children and feature areas.

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For bookings phone: 04 472 2199 www.wellingtoncablecar.co.nz

The National Museum of New Zealand - Te Papa, is fascinating and fun for curious minds of any age. The exhibits are innovative and interactive, telling stories of New Zealand’s unique geological, biological, cultural and social history in new and exciting ways. By the way – general admission is free (some touring exhibitions have an entry fee).

Get a panoramic view of city and harbour, and a great photo opportunity at the Mt Victoria Lookout. Watch the ferries sailing in through the harbour and aircraft taking off from Wellington Airport. You can drive all the way up, or walk through the town belt greenery. Grab some fish and chips and sit on the grass as the sun goes down and the lights come up.

3. Ride the historic Wellington Cable Car

The Cable Car is a Wellington icon. It runs from Lambton Quay up to Kelburn, where at the top there’s a lookout, the Cable Car

2 9 S E P T E M B E R 2 0 1 3 – 9 F E B R U A RY 2 0 1 4

AT T E PA PA tepapa.govt.nz/aztecs A d m i s s i o n c h a rg e s a p p l y

This exhibition was developed by the Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa in partnership with the National Council for Culture and the Arts - National Institute of Anthropology and History - Mexico, CONACULTA-INAH and the Australian Museum and Museum Victoria.

wellington

Museum, and Carter Observatory. With interactive displays, a state of the art digital planetarium and historic telescopes, it’s a virtual voyage to the stars. Come back down to earth (and the city) through the beautiful Botanic Garden.

4. Let a local show you around on a Wellington tour

A guided tour is the best way to get quickly acquainted with Wellington. Walk the city meeting Wellington’s coffee roasters and tasting gourmet foods. Go mountain biking with expert guides, head offroad to visit hard-to-reach wildlife, or take to the skies for a spectacular bird’s eye view.

5. Taste your way around the city

Wellington is said to have more bars and restaurants per capita than New York City, and with rich farmland to the north and ocean’s bounty to the south, those restaurants are spectacularly good. We’re also known as the craft beer capital, and as for our coffee...it’s legendary.

6. Travel back in time at the Zealandia sanctuary in Karori

Just a 10-minute drive from downtown Wellington you’ll find Zealandia. Hidden in a suburban valley, this project aims to return a 225 hectare section of bush to its pre-human state.

Take a walk and hear the songs of the flourishing native bird population. Volunteer guides help you make the most, and you can even book a night tour for kiwi spotting.

7. Check out THE world famous movie-making magic

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Get a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the imagination and artistry behind some of the world’s must spectacular movies at The Weta Cave mini-museum, right there where the special effects wizardry happens. Or put yourself in the picture with a The Lord of the Rings location tour.

8. Take a wander around the waterfront to Oriental Bay

Wellington’s waterfront is a beautifully walkable public space, dotted with cafes, parks, sculpture, bars and ice cream vendors.

Join hundreds of Wellingtonians walking, jogging, skating, cycling, or crocodile biking. Stop by one of three markets on the weekend, then aim for Oriental Bay beach to have a swim or just soak up the sun.

9. Have a Close Encounter at Wellington Zoo

Ever wanted to hand-feed a giraffe, play with a mob of meerkats or stroke a cheetah’s fur? All this and more is possible at Wellington Zoo, the ‘best little zoo in the world’. Book a Close Encounter for a once-in-a-lifetime experience, or just enjoy the more than 100 species of animals in the collection.

Say hi to the chimps for us!

10.Cruise down Cuba Street

Home to hipsters, artists and lovers of vintage, Cuba Street is a bohemian haven with some of the city’s most colourful shops, bars and cafes. Street entertainers might play percussive guitar, put on a marionette show, or play with fire. Don’t forget to get your photo of the one and only Bucket Fountain.

WELLINGTON

Creative Capital Wellington, built on the edge of a deep harbour and steep surrounding hills, is New Zealand’s ‘creative capital’. The city is home to the Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa, the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra and the Royal New Zealand Ballet, and national treasures such as the original Treaty of Waitangi - New Zealand’s founding document.

Nature and wildlife experiences are a major draw-card for the Wellington region. Zealandia, only minutes from the central city, is a sanctuary for endangered native birds and other New Zealand wildlife.

On the ‘Nature Coast’ north of Wellington, Kapiti Island is an internationally-famed nature reserve where visitors can mingle with rare native birds.

MAori Culture / History Wellington’s earliest name is Te Upoko o te Ika a Maui or ‘the head of Maui’s fish’ which refers to the story of how Aotearoa New Zealand was created.

According to Māori legend, the Polynesian navigator Maui hooked a giant fish that, when pulled to the surface, turned into the land form now known as the North Island.

Kupe - a legendary Polynesian explorer - is credited with discovering Wellington harbour around the 10th century. Kupe

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WELLINGTON

DID YOU KNOW • Wellington is the world’s southernmost capital.

• Wellington city is on an active earthquake fault, and the modern city is mostly built on reclaimed land.

• Lambton Quay - the main shopping street follows the original 1840 shoreline.

• Wellington’s distinctive Beehive building - in the Parliamentary precinct - was reputedly designed during dinner on the back of a napkin.

• New York city temporarily sprang up in Seaview, on Wellington’s harbour fringe, for the King Kong film set.

• Most Wellington residents live within 3km of the sea.

STEP INTO AOTEAROA NEW ZEALAND’S UNIQUE SKIES

Celebrate the Southern Skies in our planetarium and interactive exhibition.

OPEN FROM 10AM DAILY www.carterobservatory.org 44

WELLINGTON

Mud Cycles Experience Wellingtons best adventure activity!

?

Mountain biking & bike hire. We also design rides catering for all levels. Options range from easy sightseeing adventures through to advanced technical trails for the thrill seekers!

MOUNTAIN BIKING & BIKE HIRE KARORI 421 Karori Rd, Karori P: 04 476 4961 E: mudcycles@mudcycles.co.nz CITY Trek Global Backpackers, 9 O'Reily Ave 0800 TO TREK (0800 86 87 35)

check out our

Quality accommodation in the heart of Wellington at an affordable price

2014 programme at www.circa.co.nz

Wellington’s premiere theatre venue on the waterfront Our hotel offers a range of room sizes and types to suit your needs and budget.

As our guest, you will enjoy: 24 hour Reception Desk In-room high speed wireless broadband Minibars Complimentary tea and coffee making facilities Complimentary use of our private guest gym 166 Willis St, Wellington P: 0508 TRINITY (874 648)

www.trinityhotel.co.nz

JUST 15 MINUTES FROM THE INTERISLANDER FERRY Relax and enjoy some quiet time in our pleasant, sunny surrounds. Our well kept grounds and private upstairs balconies provide the perfect environment for you to relax and unwind. Put your feet up and chill out around our on-site barbeque and picnic tables. The choice is yours.

We’re conveniently located just north of Porirua, on the main road to Wellington (SH1). We offer a great combination of nice and sunny units; easy access to town; and a heated indoor swimming pool to relax in.

41 Mana Esplanade Mana, Porirua ph: 0800 866 262

www.manamotel.co.nz 45

WELLINGTON

The Weta Cave is Weta’s mini-museum, theaterette and shop on a corner of the Workshop itself.

named several places on the Wellington peninsula including Matiu (Somes) Island and Makaro (Ward) Island.

During the next thousand years, different iwi (tribes) settled in the area including Ngai Tara who gave their name to Wellington harbour - Te Whanganui a Tara means ‘great harbour of Tara’. Ngai Tara eventually merged with the Ngati Ira iwi, and other local tribal groups are Ngati Kahungunu, Ngai Tahu and Ngati Mamoe.

European settlers arrived in the early 1840s. Petone, on the northern end of the harbour, was originally chosen as the site for the new town but the swampy land was unsuitable for development so the settlement was relocated across the harbour.

In 1865 Wellington became the capital of New Zealand, and has been the centre of New Zealand government since then.

Food and Wine Wellington is renowned for its sophisticated food scene including more than 300 cafés, bars and restaurants, more places to eat and drink per capita than New York.

The city also boasts a vibrant nightlife with some acclaimed bars.

For a sample of Wellington’s many flavours, guided food tours introduce visitors to gourmet food stores, coffee roasters, cafés and restaurants and hard-to-find destinations.

Nature / Sustainability Zealandia, on the hills of suburban Karori, is a unique ecoattraction and haven for some of New Zealand’s rarest native animals. It is also a shining example of Wellington’s commitment to sustainability.

In the early 1990s, Zealandia was a 250-hectare area of mixed vegetation, populated by introduced pests. It’s now a world-first conservation reserve that protects native trees and animals, including rare New Zealand birds such as saddleback, hihi, and 46

little spotted kiwi, the giant weta insect and curious tuatara reptile. Long term the sanctuary aims to restore the land to a precivilisation state.

Kapiti island - 45 minutes from the city - is another example of the capital’s sustainability efforts. New Zealand’s oldest nature reserve, Kapiti has untouched New Zealand bush forest that is the natural habitat of many species of native wildlife.

Art and Culture New Zealand’s arts and culture capital has many museums and art galleries, as well as a thriving theatre and film scene. Annual large scale international events include the International Arts Festival, Wellington Sevens Rugby tournament, and World of WearableArt awards.

New Zealand’s national museum - Te Papa Tongarewa Museum of New Zealand - is a contemporary museum of innovative and interactive displays. Te Papa showcases New Zealand’s diverse art and visual culture in collections featuring wildlife, history, Māori culture, contemporary art and culture.

Museum of Wellington City and Sea, in a significant heritage building on the waterfront, offers an insight into the city’s social and cultural history.

Wellington is the centre of New Zealand’s film industry. Often referred to as ‘Wellywood’, Wellington is the home of film director Peter Jackson and his production facility, and was a location for the Lord of the Rings trilogy and King Kong.

Weta Cave offers a behind-the-scenes look at the special effects used in the Jackson movies, including filmed exclusive interviews with Weta co-founders Peter Jackson, Richard Taylor, Tania Rodger and Jamie Selkirk. The mini museum showcases characters, props and displays from more than 20 years of Weta history.

WELLINGTON

WELLINGTON FIRE ENGINE TOURS for the hottest ride in town Here’s your chance to ride the streets of Wellington as a Fire-fighter in our authentic Fire Engine. It’s the most exciting event that you and your friends will always remember. A unique experience that everyone will enjoy whatever your event!!

Guided Tours of Wellington to suit your requirements • Birthday parties • School Balls • Hens nights and Weddings • Private Guided Tours for the traveller

For a personal quote/ details of special offers please contact Fireman Matt Freephone 0800 FIREENGINE

www.fireengine.co.nz

Savour the taste of freshly made chocolates, lollies and ice-crem in our Factory Shop.

PICK-UP AND DELIVERY ONLY!

Book a Factory visit to discover some of the secrets of making chocolates.

DINNER Mon to Sat 5pm - 9pm LUNCH Wed to Fri 12noon to 2pm delivery to your door or hotel

Shop Open 7 Days

Hannah Warehouse, 13 Leeds St, Wellington Ph: 04 381 2929 www.pizzapomodoro.co.nz

Cnr. SH1 & Raumati Rd, Paraparaumu P: 04 299 8098

Great Italian pizza, cooked with fresh ingredients, on homemade pizza dough and baked the traditional way.

(except Public Holidays)

www.chocolatesnewzealand.com

Experience Wellington on a two hour guided walk.

Enjoy the history, sights and culture of this vibrant city.

10AM DAILY. Also 5.30pm Monday, Wednesday, Friday, December through February.

Adults $20, children $10.

Original designs Ladies’ cotton and silk sleepwear Resort wear Merino and silk scarves Pretty smocking for children

DEPARTS FROM THE i-SITE VISITOR CENTRE, CIVIC SQUARE.

Baby knitwear

Set in the heart of the city, Pravda is located in an elegant building with towering vaulted ceilings.

The menu includes classic European dishes as you would expect of a busy modern bistro.

Indulge in a scrumptious breakfast, lunch or dinner or simply enjoy a perfect coffee or glass of wine from Pravda’s extensive list.

A SIZZLING GREAT OFFER

Present your ferry or train ticket to get Bacon & Eggs (any way you like them) on toasted sour dough; topped off with our famous Pravda relish for $10! Valid until Feb 28th 2014. Before 10:30am.

BOATSHED AT WELLINGTON WATERFRONT, BY THE LAGOON P: 021 2943 294

www.lullabylavender.co.nz

E: walkwellington@xtra.co.nz www.walkwellington.org.nz

Open from 7.30 till late Monday to Friday and Saturday from 9am till late.

107 Customhouse Quay, Wellington T: 04 801 8858 www.pravdacafe.co.nz

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SEASON 2014 SUBSCRIBE now AND SAVE ON 2014 season TICKETS FOR SUBSCIPTion TICKETS Visit orchestrawellington.co.nz

XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX hutt city

CYCLE NEW VALLEY TRAILS Pedal up picturesque riverside trails, across mountains, tackle crazy downhills or cruise around seaside villages and bays – your pedals will be spoilt for choices in the Hutt Valley.

Every bike rider should explore the new Rimutaka Cycle Trail, a ‘Great Ride’ on Nga Haerenga, the New Zealand Cycle Trail. ‘Great Ride’ status means this is among the top 23 bike rides in New Zealand; in other words it’s a must do! It starts in and finishes in the Hutt Valley. Try a section at a time as a day ride, multi-day ride or explore the whole trail as a cycle holiday on the Rimutaka Cycle Trail.

There are plenty of options for bike hire in the Hutt Valley and over 500 kilometres of tracks and trails to explore. Take your bike on the ferry across Wellington Harbour and bike the idyllic eastern bays stopping off at seaside village cafes and discover the rugged and spectacular scenery of south coast out to Pencarrow Lighthouse – New Zealand’s first, built in 1858 and home to our nation’s only female lighthousekeeper. The track starts at the memorial to the Wahine and further along is the rusting hull of the SS Paiaka.

Family activities include cycle rides along easy flat bike trails beside the Hutt River past adventure playgrounds and the ever growing Wainuiomata mountain bike park for learner riders to serious downhillers. New tracks are being added all the time.

You can also bring your bike on the train out to Petone before exploring historic Jackson Street, Petone (the whole street is Historic Places Trust listed) is filled with great cafes and restaurants making it a must do for locals and visitors alike. There’s tasty treats from around the globe, cafés and coffee roasters, delis and specialty foods with a mix of top vintage stores, quirky design stores and boutique fashion houses.

P: +64 4 560 4715 E: info@huttvalleynz.com www.huttvalleynz.com

www.facebook.com/HuttCity.Wellington twitter.com/thehutt

49

THORNDON

Wellington’s Oldest Suburb: Thorndon Learn New Zealand’s stories and visit architectural gems in Wellington and the city’s oldest suburb – Thorndon – it is a great spot to start your heritage journey.

Your first stop in Thorndon has to be the beautifully refurbished Parliament Buildings on the corner of Lambton Quay and Molesworth Street. The complex is made up of three architecturally distinctive buildings: the Edwardian neo-classical Parliament House, the Victorian Gothic Parliamentary Library and the unique 1970s-style Beehive building.

Continuing with the architecture trail, Old St Paul’s at 34 Mulgrave Street is a fine example of 19th century gothic revival architecture adapted to colonial conditions and material.

Constructed entirely from native timbers, the glowing interior is enhanced by stunning stained glass windows. No longer a parish church but still consecrated, Old St Paul’s remains a place of spiritual significance to many.

For more on buildings, the Department of Conservation is great for information on open days at Government buildings.

You can either contact the DOC Wellington Visitor Centre at 18 Manners Street or visit their website at www.doc.govt.nz.

One of Wellington City's finest heritage buildings. Turnbull House was built in 1918 for the private residence of Alexander Turnbull.

For more information: visit WellingtonNZ.com or the Wellington i-SITE Visitor Centre for more activities and attractions in New Zealand’s capital of cool.

AWA R D W I N N I N G C H E F

HEMI TAHU C H EF O F T H E NAT ION, C H EF O F T H E CAPITAL PROUD WINNERS OF THE:

Beef and Lamb People’s Choice Award 2013

Old St Paul’s Breathtakingly Beautiful!

Wellington’s famous…Old St Paul’s. Stunning architecture and a place of living history.

Old St Paul’s is one of New Zealand’s greatest heritage places, and one of the best examples of timber Gothic Revival architecture in the world.

A ‘must-see’ experience on your visit to Wellington. Guided tours every hour.

7 Days 9:30am – 5pm Closed Christmas Day and for short periods during special functions.

Dinner: Wed to Sun Brunch: Sat and Sun

241 Tinakori Rd, Thorndon, Wellington Ph: 04 499 8464

www.charliebill.co.nz 50

34 Mulgrave Street, Thorndon, Wellington T: 04 473 6722 E: oldstpauls@historic.org.nz

Gift shop

–

Exhibition

–

Guided tours

Visit key areas of the historic Parliament Buildings. Enjoy your free 1 hour guided tour by specially trained staff.

The tour operates everyday, on the hour, from the Beehive.

Weekdays: 10am-4pm.

Saturdays and most public holidays: 10am-3pm.

Sundays: 11am-3pm. Tour route/times subject to change. Please arrive 15 minutes before the hour.

Gift shop open Parliament Buildings, Molesworth Street, Wellington P: 04 817 9503 F: 04 817 6743 E: tour.desk@parliament.govt.nz www.parliament.nz

WAIRARAPA

ON YER BIKE IN THE WAIRARAPA Cyclists are able to explore a part of the previously inaccessible southern Wairarapa coastline following the launch of the Rimutaka Cycle Trail.

The 115km Rimutaka Cycle Trail starts at Petone’s foreshore, then runs through Wairarapa before finishing at Wainuiomata’s Orongorongo River. Three stages of the cycleway are complete, with the final section from Ocean Beach to Orongorongo currently being finalised. The Rimutaka Cycle Trail will be promoted as one of New Zealand’s Great Rides as part of Nga Haerenga – The New Zealand Cycle Trail.

The Rimutaka Cycle Trail is designed to be ridden in part as a day ride or over several days. Destination Wairarapa general manager David Hancock said the trail will become the heart of future cycle tourism in the Wairarapa.

“We expect this trail will be a great economic driver for the region,” he said.

“Based on the success of other Great Rides around New Zealand

we expect to see thousands of tourists access the Wairarapa through the trail and then experience all the other activities on offer here.”

The project involved the work of PWT, Hutt City Council, Upper Hutt City Council, Destination Wairarapa, South Wairarapa District Council, Greater Wellington Regional Council and the Department of Conservation, in collaboration with both iwi and rotary groups.

The Wairarapa side of the trail includes exhilarating sections with three railway tunnels. Riders emerge into the open expanse of the Wairarapa valley at Cross Creek.

From there riders turn south travelling through rich farmland, past Lake Onoke, part of the Wairarapa Moana Wetlands Park, before reaching picturesque Palliser Bay. The final section of the trail follows the dramatic South Coast, parts of which have never been opened up to the public.

At its southern most point, Turakirae Head, riders will find unique geological formations and a fur seal colony.

While the Rimutaka Cycle Trail is a good way to come to the 51

wairarapa

photo: Terry Wreford Hann

Wairarapa there are plenty of other things to do in the region, recognised as a boutique food and wine area, lying at the heart of the Classic New Zealand Wine Trial.

The nearby township of Martinborough is packed with colonial charm and features over 30 wineries, most within walking or cycling distance of the quaint village square which is laid out in a Union Jack pattern. Some of New Zealand’s best pinot noir comes from the town’s friendly family-owned vineyards while vineyard cafes, boutique stores, quality accommodation, olive groves and award-winning restaurants buzz during the summer months.

Just 15 minutes drive north is the Victorian country village of Greytown with metropolitan style. Greytown has an eclectic mix of independent boutiques, art galleries, antique stores and cafes.

The pretty back streets, many lined with heritage trees and colonial

homes, are perfect to cycle around. The Woodside Trail is a gentle scenic 5km route for walkers and cyclists running from South Greytown to Woodside Station.

Further north are the characterful towns of Carterton, renowned for its quirky second hand stores and the family friendly town of Masterton, with its magnificent Queen Elizabeth Park that features the Kid’s Own Playground. Both have easy access to nearby country lanes and undulating country roads that take riders past vineyards, olive groves and farmland.

The Wairarapa is a peaceful retreat from city life, located only one hour’s drive or train ride from Wellington. For more information on the Rimutaka Cycle Trail including bike hire, shuttle transfers, train timetables, cycle operators and accommodation please visit www.wairarapanz.com WAIR AR APA

Whareama Coastal Walk “Off the Beaten Track”

From $75 per person

WA I R A R A PA Set in charming and attractive grounds with stunning views of the surrounding countryside, the property is available as a B&B in a private sunny room in the Homestead, or book into our separate self-catered three-bedroom Cottage or two-bedroomed Bach.

Located at the southern end of Lake Wairarapa, less than 90 minutes’ drive from Wellington, Close to Martinborough, Lake Ferry, Lake Wairarapa, Cape Palliser & Featherston.

Awarded 100% guest rating by Travelbug in 2013.

Fantastic fully catered rural and coastal walking adventure over Private farmland and isolated Wairarapa coastline.

The ideal weekend or midweek getaway!

Join us for 2 or 3 Day Walks, or Single Day Walks!

Please call Jo on: 06 307 7007 or M: 0275989039 E: jomatthews_swim@hotmail.com

Phone Dick & Carmen on 06 372 3722.

www.waitunahomestead.co.nz

www.whareamawalk.co.nz

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NELSON TASMAN

Never ending fun in Nelson Adventure or relaxing, family or romance, gathering or seclusion, you can find it all here in the centre of New Zealand in Nelson Tasman.

Pop on a t-shirt and jandals, grab an ice cream, roll up your trousers and go for a paddle with the family at Tahunanui Beach.

For a bit of furry fun for the little ones and only a stone’s throw away from the beach is Natureland Zoo where you can pat the farmyard animals or watch the favourite meerkats play.

Also nearby is Nelson Fun Park with bumper boats, hydro slides and mini golf – a great way to while away the hours. Then after a busy day, stop for fish and chips at Wakefield Quay and watch the sun set over the water.

For thrillseekers and hikers, head down to Murchison, home of whitewater thrills, the longest swing bridge (110m) and one of the

key gateways to the Nelson Lakes National Park.

If world renowned is what you’re looking for then take a side track off the 80km Travers Sabine Circuit in the park and hike to the crystal clear Blue Lake, deemed the clearest fresh water in the world.

Murchison calls itself the ‘whitewater capital’ of the country with canoeing, kayaking, jet boating and rafting - boasting one of every grade you can raft.

For something truly remarkable visit ‘The Flames in the Forest’.

Oil prospectors in the 1920s put a match to the natural gas seeping from the ground, and the flames have been burning ever since.

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NELSON TASMAN

Spend a day or two in Golden Bay, the main entry point to the Kahurangi National Park, home of one of NZ’s nine ‘Great Walks’, the Heaphy Track and 1875m high Mt Owen.

‘Lord of the Rings’ and ‘The Hobbit’ fans should take the opportunity and helicopter to the entrance of the mines of Moria on Mt Owen. The views offer big, bold and fascinating marble karst landscapes, perfect for a heli-hike excursion. The vista from the top of Takaka Hill as you descend into Golden Bay is captivating. Experience a myriad of natural attractions such as Te Waikoropupu Springs, the Grove Scenic Reserve, Farewell Spit and Wharariki Beach.

Leave all communication devices in the hotel, motel or holiday park and appreciate the lush native bush, golden sands and turquoise waters from the comfort of a cruise boat in the stunning Abel Tasman National Park, NZ’s smallest but most visited park. Stay in one of the luxury lodges or well-equipped DOC campgrounds and lose time while discovering some of the less frequented bays by foot or sea kayak or take a good book and enjoy a restful day at the beach.

‘Lord of the Rings’ fans win again! Nelson is home to Jens Hansen Jewellers, creator of the world’s most famous ring, the ‘One Ring’. You will find it on display at the World of WearableArt and Classic Cars Museum. The kids will stop in awe as they admire the intricate detail and outrageous designs of WearableArt, while you immerse in the glitz and glamour of yesteryear in the Classic Cars Museum.

Book tickets to a show at the Theatre Royal, the oldest wooden theatre still in use in the Southern Hemisphere, or browse exhibitions at The Suter Theatre, after which you can enjoy a coffee at the Suter Café, overlooking the historic Queens Gardens.

Festivals and events occur year round in Nelson Tasman, visit www.itsOn.co.nz to find out what‘s on.

Food for thought - gather a basket of tasty locally made goodies from the famous Nelson Saturday Market and lay out your picnic rug on the Botanics playing field, site of the first New Zealand rugby game.

In search of a cocktail of romance and fitness? Then stand up, walk up and take in the panoramic views of city and sea from the summit of the centre of NZ. Every Wednesday in The Square at Fashion Island is the Nelson Farmer’s Market with a delicious selection of home-grown produce. Browse the boutiques, shop up a storm and lunch in one of the cafés.

Out in the Moutere, the creative and productive artisans have formed a cluster of their own. Visit www.moutereartisans.co.nz to find out more.

Following food is always wine, but in Nelson Tasman they also have beer! Known to take risks with various grape varieties, the 25 vineyards showcase exquisite wines, with a growing reputation for the aromatics – Riesling, Pinot Gris and Gewurztraminer. Titled ‘The Craft Brewing Capital’, Nelson Tasman has NZ’s oldest pub, the Moutere Inn and the 2012 ‘Best New Zealand Bar’, the Sprig & Fern Milton St. The historic Rochdale Cider Factory at Stoke is the home to McCashin’s Brewery. Rochdale Cider is still brewed on site, along with Stoke Beer, 26000 vodka, and other beverages.

Cycling activities are also on the menu with rides suitable for all ages and skill levels.

The ‘Tasman Great Taste Trail’ will be a 175km cycle trail and currently has two sections open including a ferry ride from Rabbit Island to Mapua and is a great way to explore the breweries, vineyards, country pubs and historic buildings. Mountain biking enthusiasts should try the 38km Dun Mountain Trail which follows the route of NZ’s first railway.

Wherever your interests and passions lie, there are ample opportunities to indulge these in the Nelson Tasman region. Enjoy!

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NELSON TASMAN

what’s on in nelson tasman Carols in the Vineyard Sunday December 15 A friendly Community Carols event held in the beautiful gardens of Neudorf Vineyard.

Nelson Jazz & Blues Festival Wednesday January 1 - Sunday January 5 Free and ticketed events in parks, bars and venues featuring jazz and blues bands from all around the country and beyond.

Port Nelson Street Races Thursday January 2 Feel the thrill as motorcycle racing takes place through the closed streets of Port Nelson.

Interislander Summer Festival Harness Racing, Friday January 3 & Sun January 5 Harness racing accompanied by music, food, competitions and entertainment for all the family.

Festival Nelson Lakes Saturday January 18 & Sunday January 19 Outdoor festival set against the beautiful backdrop or Lake Rotoiti in the Nelson Lakes National Park.

Brightwater Wine and Food Festival Sunday February 16 Head along to the Brightwater Wine and Food Festival for all-day entertainment, fantastic food, and award-winning wine and beer.

Markets Tapawera Christmas Fair, Sunday December 1 Wendleton Country Market, December 7, January 4, February 1 Mapua Maker’s Market, Sunday December 8 Richmond Market Day, Monday December 30 Arts & Craft Fair, Wednesday January 1 Wakefield Craft Fair, Thursday January 2 Riwaka Market Day, Thursday January 2 Trafalgar St Market Day, Saturday February 1 Washbourn Gardens Gala, Mon February 3 Regular markets include The Nelson Market, McCashin’s Market and Takaka Village Market on Saturdays, Monty’s Sunday Market, and the Nelson Farmer’s Market on Wednesdays.

Full details of all events and markets at www.itson.co.nz

Central, Quiet, Friendly

We are an affordable, 4 ½ star motel located

• Free WIFI

near the Cathedral in Nelson city, an easy walk

• Sky 50+ Guest Select TV

to the city centre, restaurants and cafes.

Abel Tasman shuttles depart from the bus stop outside our door.

214 Rutherford Street, Nelson

• Studios, Executive & Family Rooms • Double Glazed • 10 units, all with kitchens

Call Now – Freephone 0800 66 00 65 Seasonal Rates start at $125/night

• Private patio or balcony

E: stay@chelseapark.co.nz

www.chelseapark.co.nz

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Every Wednesday 11-4pm, Rain or shine Morrison Square Corner of Morrison & Hardy St This season the farmers market in Nelson brings you Fresh Wednesdays with a wonderful selection of fresh, local, organic and seasonal specialties. Come down, wander around and taste some of the local taste sensations all in one place. We have everything from wild sourdoughs to cured meats to Manuka honey to local seasonal fruits, berries and vegetables – Come down and enjoy the music AND OUR REGION! Have a go at some of our spring summer specialities on the next page

R TO REFE DVERT A THIS D GET N A OFF $20

Nelsons leading tour company since 1992. Let Owen and Sue take you to their favourite spots for a day to remember! “ The relaxed, friendly and informative tours that the Bay Tours team provide, set a standard unsurpassed by other operators in the industry” JOHN HARREY, OWNER OF TE MANIA WINES

P: 03 548 6486

/

49 Chaytor Road, RD1, Nelson, 7173

www.baytoursnelson.co.nz 56

NELSON TASMAN

APPLEBY PESTO

HAUL-A-SHORE CAPONATA

Parsley, Rocket, Corriander or even wild Borage leaves can be substituted for the basil during other seasons.

This is a fantastic dish from southern Italy that’s eaten as a warm vegetable side dish or a cold antipasto.

1 cup shelled fresh walnuts from Okainamu Organics or Golden Hills Walnuts 2 large handfuls of fresh basil leaves from Grown in Hope or Heatherdale Orchards 2 large cloves garlic from Okainamu Organics 1 tsp black pepper 1 teaspoon salt ¼ cup olive oil from Neudorf Olives or Okainamu Organics ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese from Neudorf Dairy 1 tbsp lemon juice (or to taste) from Okainamu Organics

1 onion, sliced from Grown in Hope or Heatherdale Orchards 3 capsicums cut in small cubes from Grown in Hope, Okainamu Organics or Heatherdale orchards 2 sticks celery, sliced from Heathedale orchards 1 large eggplant, cubed from Grown in Hope or Heatherdale Orchards 3 tbsp olive oil from Neudorf Olives or Okainamu organics 8 Italian tomatoes, sliced from Heatherdale orchards Okainamu organics or grown in hope 2 cloves garlic, crushed from Okainamu organics 1/3 cup pitted black olives, halved from Belulah ridge olives 1 tbsp capers Salt and pepper to taste 2 tbsp white vinegar 1 tbsp brown sugar

Chop the walnuts, basil and garlic together in a food processor.

Add the remaining ingredients and process until well mixed.

Serve with fresh sourdough bread from Don Rodrigo.

Roast onion, capsicums, celery and eggplant in olive oil at 180oC for 45 minutes. Mix remaining ingredients, add to dish and roast for a further 30 minutes. Serve cold with fresh sourdough bread from Don Rodrigo.

Makes 3 cups and freezes well.

All ingredients are available fresh from these local stallholders every Wednesday at the Nelson Farmers Market

MORE THAN FASHION 26 of the very best food, fashion and retail stores in the heart of Nelson city (plus Nelson’s Farmers Market every Wednesday NILE STREET NILE STREET11-4pm).

WEST Rutherford Hotel

Buxton Square

RUTHERFORD STREET

HARDY STREET

TRAFALGAR STREET

SELWYN PLACE Morrison Street

COLLINGWOOD STREET

Nelson Cathedral

Cnr Hardy & Morrison Streets, NELSON CITY - Open 7 Days BRIDGE STREET

www.morrisonsquare.co.nz

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nelson tasman

THE CLASSIC COUNTRY PUB

Chandrakirti Meditation Centre Meditation Retreat Dec 13-18 2014 Summer Meditation Retreat Jan 10-19 2014 Heart Sutra Retreat Jan 24-30 2014

Visit temple and gardens during daylight hours

Check the regular teaching program at www.chandrakirti.co.nz

289 Sunrise Valley Road Upper Moutere Nelson 7173 ph 03 543 2021 meditate@chandrakirti.co.nz

SPECIAL RATES Subject to availability. Per night for 2 people inc GST.

Studio $119 / Studio Spa $129 Riverside Spa $139 66 Trafalgar Street, Nelson Call free 0800 Trailways (872 459) E: enquiries@trailwayshotel.co.nz

www.trailwayshotel.co.nz

SPECIAL RATES Subject to availability. Per night for 2 people inc GST.

Studio Apartment $129 Poolside Apartment $139 43-55 Trafalgar Street, Nelson Call free 0508 Delorenzo (335 673) E: enquiries@delorenzos.co.nz

www.delorenzos.co.nz 58

If you’re looking for the classic country pub experience in Nelson this summer treat yourself at the Moutere Inn. New Zealand’s oldest pub is located in the centre of hop growing country, offers 13 taps of craft beer and serves only wines grown in the Moutere valley.

Established in 1850 and completed in 1853 the Inn has received only minor changes over the past 163 years. The original owner Cordt Bennsemann built the Inn himself and even managed to keep the town of Sarau (now Upper Moutere) alive when a road by-pass threatened. He left a barrel of beer by the road, offering a free drink to everyone who voted for the existing route.

While the barrel of free beer has gone the Moutere Inn is still full of life today. A recent winner of the ‘Outstanding Beverage List’ at the Nelson Hospitality Awards the Inn will be offering a full quality pub menu every day from midday to 8:30pm over the summer. Tony, our imported chef who won ‘Britain’s Best Beefburger’ twice, is now creating them and a range of other dishes right here in the Moutere Valley.

Check out our website www.moutereinn.co.nz for summer events and to see what’s on offer.

NEW Head Chef We're very happy to welcome Tony as Head Chef in the Moutere Kitchen.

One of the UK's top pub chef's, Tony has recently moved to the area ater selling his award winning gastropub in the Cotswolds.

He brings a fresh and exciting pub menu that includes a range of Gourmet Burgers, Fish & Chips, and Half-Kilo Texan Ribs.

NELSON TASMAN

Feel alive in Nelson The Nelson Tasman region is brimming with activities to make you feel alive. Here is just a sampling! For more, www.nelsonnz.com

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NELSON TASMAN

HANDMADE IN NEW ZEALAND

Glass by artists Ola and Marie Höglund creators of world-renowned New Zealand art glass since 1982 HÖGLUND GLASSBLOWING STUDIO visitors welcome OPEN 10am - 5pm (closed Christmas & Boxing Day, 1 January, Good Friday) 52 Lansdowne Road, Richmond, NELSON

Ph: 03 544 6500

www.hoglundartglass.com

Anatoki Salmon Fishing - The fish are ready, the rods are waiting!

Fly Fishing Nelson Tasman Rivers boast good stocks of wild brown trout averaging 3lb, with catches of 8 - 10lb not uncommon. The clarity of water enables anglers to spot and cast to the fish they want to catch. This is true stalking; as opposed to dropping a fly in the water in the hope a trout will see it. Easy access to remote and uncrowded locations allow anglers to make the best of each day.

There are well over 30 fish-able rivers within a two hour drive from Nelson City. With the Nelson Tasman region repeatedly achieving the highest sunshine hours in New Zealand, the warm dry summers allow fly fishermen a better chance of good fishing weather.

Bird Lovers Farewell Spit at the north-western tip of the South Island is the home to over 90 species of birds. Migratory species may be found along the 35km length of the geologically remarkable Farewell Spit. A gannet colony at the end of the spit is unusual for its sea level location. The first 4km of Farewell Spit can be freedomwalked. Beyond that, access is only allowed via a guided trip in a purpose-built, air-conditioned bus departing from Collingwood.

Specific bird-watching trips are available. Departure times vary depending on tides. At Nelson Lakes National Park, the Department of Conservation runs a “Nature Recovery Project” focusing on the regeneration of forest, and nurturing the successful recovery of native birds such as the tomtit, robin, and New Zealand’s smallest bird the rifleman. South Island kaka are also present but less common. Freedom and guided walks for varying levels of ability may be taken from the alpine village of St Arnaud on the edge of Lake Rotoiti.

Family Friendly

194 Cable Bay Rd, Nelson Free Ph: 0800 157 300 Local Ph: 545 0304 www.happyvalleyadventures.co.nz 60

Jester House Cafe with its organic maze, quirky sculptures, and tame eels will delight the children while the adults linger over lunch. Happy Valley Adventures is a rural property offering 4WD bikes, argo rides, horse trekking, paintball and the Skywire adventure ride, with something for everyone, just 10 minutes north of Nelson City. Fishing for salmon at Anatoki Salmon farm

nelson tasman

Bushline Hut, Nelson Lakes National Park

near Takaka in Golden Bay is almost guaranteed to be successful.

Pay for your catch by weight and have it smoked on-site for a picnic beside the crystal clear river which feeds the salmon ponds.

Make jewellery using the huge array of baubles and beads at the Bead Gallery in Nelson city and Richmond. Visit the Nelson Saturday Market held each week in the Montgomery Carpark in the city. Cruise the stalls for jewellery, art, fashion, gourmet food, fresh produce and more.

Short Walks and “Great Walks” The Nelson Tasman region’s pristine natural environment including three national parks provide some great walks from short urban strolls to multi-day wilderness walks. The Centre of New Zealand is a well-graded zigzag path winding up a hill from Nelson City to the site of the original South Island trig station

with views over the port and the City. Cable Bay, north of the city provides a coastal walk through farmland, and native bush with views over Tasman Bay. A short walk to The Resurgence Reserve near Motueka brings you to the source of the Riwaka River, after the water has sifted through the porous limestone of the Marble Mountain. Waikoropupu Springs near Takaka in Golden Bay has some of the clearest water ever measured and is accessed by a 10 minute walk from the car-park. The up to 5-day Abel Tasman Coast Track and the 4 - 6 day Heaphy Track are two of 9 designated “Great Walks” by the Department of Conservation.

Mountain Biking The easy access rides for every level of rider from beginner to downhill makes the Nelson Tasman region ideal for mountainbiking. The staff at i-SITE Visitor Centres can provide more

HOP FEDERATION BREWERY TOUR, TASTE, TAKEAWAY

Located in the village of Riwaka; close to the Kahurangi and Abel Tasman National Parks our brewery is in the heart of hop country.

Approx 35mins from Nelson and situated along the Great Taste Trail, our craft brewery is a perfect location to stop and visit.

Summer Hours: 11am to 8pm every day For more information or to book a tour directly email: info@hopfederation.co.nz

483 MAIN ROAD, RIWAKA, TASMAN P: 03 528 0486

www.hopfederation.co.nz

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nelson tasman

Holiday and Wellness Experience Kaiteriteri Be our guest...

Located just one hour from sunny Nelson, Kimi Ora Eco Resort in Kaiteriteri is the perfect place to relax and unwind all year around.

Kimi Ora is for everyone. You are welcome to hire a mountain bike to try the hugely popular Kaiteriteri MTB Park. Take a dip in our heated indoor or outdoor swimming and spa pools or relax in the sauna. Or how about treating yourself to a spa treatment (open daily by appointment).

Set amongst the treetops, our solid timber eco friendly Swiss-style chalets are the perfect place to reconnect with nature and yourself. You’ll be delighted by the uninterrupted views of Kaiteriteri beach, estuary and surrounding bush-clad hills and the abundant bird life.

information and guides to mountain biking in the region are available for hire. A strong network of local riders and a pro-active mountain bike club make track development a big priority. Single track trails include the exhilaration of riding down the Marble Mountain on the Rameka Track, which follows the inland boundary of the Abel Tasman National Park. Bikes are available for hire with or without a guide.

Succulent Seafood, Fresh Produce, and Award-winning Cuisine Nelson is the largest fishing port in Australasia, and two large sandy bays offer cockles, mussels and Tasman Bay Scallops. Consistently recording the highest annual sunshine hours in the country, abundant crops of apples, berries, olives, hops, and of course grapes, thrive. Long sunny days and cool nights, make for great wine. Nelson is particularly known for its aromatic varieties.

The Art of Winemaking A Nelson wine tour offers something special. By including visits the nearby studios of some of the region’s 350+ full time artists, visitors are rewarded with an understanding of the inspiration behind the art. Art and wine just seem to go together - even the Nelson Winemakers are collectively known as Nelson WineArt – a nod towards the phenomenal art in the region, but also an acknowledgement of the creativity involved in crafting a great wine.

Nelson Tasman Key Facts • Nelson is NZ’s fourth busiest airport with over 20 direct, 50-seater flights arriving from Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch each day • There are three National Park in the Nelson Tasman region. The Abel Tasman National Parks is just 60 minutes’ drive from Nelson city. But... There are no roads in the park. It is only accessible by foot, kayak, watertaxi, helicopter or light plane • Nelson is where Rugby was born in New Zealand, Charles Monro organised the first game here on 14 May 1870 between Nelson College and Nelson Rugby Football Club • Abel Tasman National Park was recent chosen in the 25 Top Destinations worldwide by Europeans within Trip Advisor Travellers Choice Awards 2010 • You can keep an eye on events and happenings in the Nelson Tasman Region on www.itson.co.nz • Nelson is the location of New Zealand’s annual One Fly event www.onefly.co.nzThe event base is the Grand Mercure Nelson Monaco www.monacoresort.co.nz

99 Martin Farm Rd, Kaiteriteri P: 0508 KIMIORA (0508 5464672) E: info@kimiora.com www.kimiora.com

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• Nelson Tasman is a visitor destination typified by “Free Independent Travellers”, as opposed to group coach visitors. The region is popular for self-drive vacations, and Nelson Tasman’s visitors mainly come from Australia, UK/Europe and North America.

golden bay

Dazzling time in golden bay Golden Bay is perhaps one of New Zealand’s most diverse and appealing holiday destinations.

Imagine a region with endless variety, where golden beaches, alpine valleys and tranquil fishing rivers flank the sea.

Breathtaking scenery, arts and crafts, sporting activities are around every corner.

Golden Bay is nestled into the South Island’s north-west corner. A chain of steep and rugged mountains cut their fertile river plains and valleys from the rest of the island. Unless you’re a migrating whale, you don’t go past Golden Bay on your way to anywhere. You go there simply to be there.

Before you lay eyes on Golden Bay, you’ll enjoy an amazingly scenic road journey. The long, slow climb over Takaka Hill, known as ‘marble mountain’, is the first challenge. There are sign-posted lookouts along the way and the subterranean marvels

of Harwoods Hole (176 metres deep) and the Ngarua Caves shouldn’t be missed.

Te Waikoropupu Springs (also known as Pupu Springs) is on the other side of the hill, near the town of Takaka. The springs are a ‘wahi tapu’ - sacred place - to the local Maori tribe. You can take a stroll around the walkways and read the interpretive panels along the way.

As the road leads west, fabulous views of Golden Bay will keep you entertained. The huge, sandy bay is famous for its scallops.

Collingwood is the final settlement of any size before Farewell Spit, a lengthy sandspit that wraps itself around the upper reaches of the bay. The sandspit is a bird sanctuary - too long to walk, so you might want to catch a guided 4WD safari to see the lighthouse and birds.

On the Tasman Sea side of Cape Farewell is Warariki Beach - a wild, beautiful place where wind and waves have created massive rock and sand dune formations. The ultimate Wharariki experience is a horse trek.

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golden bay

S P E C TA C U L A R G O L D E N B AY

Here are some other not to miss experiences: • Hit the water! Kayaking the quieter and beautiful northern end of the Abel Tasman National Park is a great way to explore the park.

• Take a tour through the Te Anaroa Caves in Rockville and be amazed by the fossils, stalagmites, stalactites and glowworms.

• Make a day of it up the Anatoki River: see the animals and feed the tame eels at Bencarri Farm Park, then pop next door and go fishing and have your catch hot smoked at Anatoki Salmon.

• Take a scenic coastal drive past the massive limestone cliffs at Tarakohe, to the Golden Beaches of Ligar Bay and Tata Beach.

The closest accommodation to the spectacular Wharariki Beach, 4 Std Cabins, Backpackers Lodge, Powered and non powered tent and campervan sites.

20 min walk to the beach.

Seals, caves, rock pools and many walks to suit all ages.

560 Wharariki Rd, Wharariki Beach All camping enquiries E: stay@wharariki.co.nz

www.whararikibeachholidaypark.co.nz 64

• Pack your togs and go for a bush walk – the Wainui Falls are a 30 minute walk from the carpark, and there’s some great swimming holes in the river on the way to the falls, and there’s a swing bridge too!

• Sample an apple cider or manuka beer with a steaming plate of mussels at the iconic Golden Bay venue The Mussel Inn. • Take a stroll through native forest to Te Waikoropupu Springs, New Zealands largest freshwater springs, and home to the clearest spring water in the world.

• Drive to the most northerly tip of the South Island and take a walk around Puponga Farm, or take a guided tour along Farewell Spit.

For more information: visit www.newzealand.com for more on Golden Bay

NELSON TASMAN

WILSONS ABEL TASMAN NATIONAL PARK

BOUTIQUE HOTEL ACCOMMODATION & RESTAURANT IN GOLDEN BAY

It’s easy to create your ideal holiday in New Zealand’s finest coastal National Park. Browse all options at www.AbelTasman.co.nz, from a half-day boat cruise into the Park, to a 5-day Kayak and Walk Break staying at Beachfront Lodges within the boundaries of the Park. Then, call our friendly reservations team or book online.

Travel into the Park with speed, style and comfort aboard the Wilson Abel Tasman’s Vista Cruise with the best views from comfortable seating around tables on upper and lower decks. You can enjoy a full experience of the Park, relaxing with drinks, light meals and snacks from the cafe and bar onboard. If you choose a walking or sea kayaking option, the front loading ramp provides swift, safe beach transfers.

With 3 Vista Cruise sailings per day from Kaiteriteri and coach connections to Nelson, you can choose to spend the whole day or just a couple of hours in the morning or afternoon on the wondrous Abel Tasman coast.

For a real break away, indulge in an overnight Lodge Stay to experience the tranquillity of the Park after most visitors have left for the day. All you have to do is get to Nelson, Motueka or Kaiteriteri. Wilsons Abel Tasman will take care of you from there.

Welcoming visitors since 1841, the Wilson’s team know how to show the best experiences, from 2 hours to 5 days.

Book online now for the best deal www.AbelTasman.co.nz or call us 0800 ABELTAS (223 582)

Boo drea k your mh onli olid ne a ay nd SAVE quo ting by offe ONBOARD r co de SAVE 2013 to 10%

Continental breakfast and WIFI always free.

Across the street from Pohara Beach in spectacular, secluded Golden Bay with easy access to Abel Tasman National Park and Farewell Spit; 10 mins from Takaka township. 10 en-suite rooms with flatscreen televisions, SKYTV, luxurious down bedding, and tea and coffee making facilities. Saltwater swimming pool, licensed dining room and lounge on-site.

P: 03 525 7998 E: stay@ratanuilodge.com

www.ratanuilodge.com

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marlborough

Summer in Marlborough

Summer is unashamedly the favourite season of the year and just like wine in a glass it tastes much better in Marlborough.

marlborough

The Marlborough Wine and Food Festival - Sat 8 February

There are very few things in life that are guaranteed, but when you come to Marlborough there are certain things that you come to expect like great wine, fresh locally grown cherries at Christmas and a long hot summer. The latter is not always assured but on the wine front you wont be let down, no surprise given that Marlborough is the largest and most famous wine region in New Zealand.

One cannot survive on fine wine alone and once again Marlborough is truly blessed. The gorgeous Marlborough Sounds whilst an undeniably fabulous (yes fabulous!) recreational playground is home to a thriving aquaculture industry. Havelock at the head of Pelorus Sound is the Greenshell™ Mussel Capital of the World. These succulent beauties are a delight to eat and freshly steamed, need no further adornment outside of perhaps a squeeze of lemon juice and a glass of Marlborough Sauvignon SHBOI_OnBoard_Half_TBREAK_DEC13toFEB14.pdf 18/10/2013 and 12:02:51 p.m. are in Blanc.

When local fresh oysters, scallops,1 crayfish clams season you can be assured of their presence on any Marlborough

menu. Delicious King Salmon is a year round treat and whilst it can be cooked in a variety of ways my favourite is straight off the BBQ hot plate on the back of a boat, yes once again with a glass of liquid sunshine!

The Marlborough Farmer’s Market in summer is fun for the whole family on a Sunday morning. Mum and Dad get to socialise over a cup of locally roasted coffee and grab some fresh Marlborough produce while the kids are entertained by the popular story teller. The Marlborough Artisan Market on Saturday in the CBD of Blenheim, is the new kid on the block and has proven very popular with a range of stalls offering handicrafts, woodwork, pottery, soaps, lavender products, oils and wines alongside fresh fruit and vegetables.

One of the favourite summertime events is the Marlborough Wine and Food Festival which is New Zealand’s original and longest running wine festival. Held at Brancott Estate amongst the vineyards since 1987, on the second Saturday in February

SCENIC HOTEL MARLBOROUGH

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Take a break with Scenic Hotel Marlborough and receive a daily $80 Restaurant credit, a bottle of Villa Maria wine upon arrival and enjoy a late check out of 12pm.

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*Rate advertised applies to stays until 25 December 2013. However the promotion is valid until 30 April 2014 and rates are subject to seasonal change and availability. For full Terms & Conditions, please refer to deal page on our website.

Book online: www.scenichotels.co.nz or call 0800 NZ OWNED (69 69 63) AUCKLAND | BAY OF ISLANDS | CHRISTCHURCH | DUNEDIN | FOX GLACIER | FRANZ JOSEF GLACIER | GORE | HAAST | MARLBOROUGH | NAPIER | QUEENSTOWN | TONGA

marlborough

expres 19 18 •

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PE L O R U

The Marlborough Sounds are best explored on water, with a range of cruises and activities from a self-guided kayak excursion to a chartered luxury yacht.

•

sin ce

and this year the event celebrates its 30th Anniversary. Featuring approximately 60 wineries, 30 food stalls, a culinary pavilion, wine workshops with local wine makers and the ever popular Fashion in the Vines competition this is a great day out.

You could be forgiven for thinking that all you can do here is eat fabulous food and drink wine and with over 35 cellar doors to be visited it is an easy conclusion to come to but that would be horribly misleading. Marlborough also have a fine appreciation of boutique beer, locally brewed of course and brands such as MOA, Renaissance and No.8 Wired are winning prestigious awards just like their winery counterparts. Everyone appreciates a good wine but there is nothing quite like a cold beer on a hot summer’s day!

If Blenheim is the doorway to the wineries then the Marlborough Sounds is the entrance to adventurous fun.

Making up one fifth of New Zealand’s coastline the Sounds were created by sunken river valleys that were flooded by the sea.

According to legend, the Marlborough Sounds were formed when Kupe, a great Maori warrior, was chasing a giant octopus and finally caught it in Cook Strait, where it formed the waterways and headlands of the Marlborough Sounds.

And the Marlborough Sounds Adventure Company, owned and operated by Sara Archdale and Dave Watson, is the company to help you experience the best this region has to offer.

Even though they are the original adventure tourism business in Marlborough, the team won’t let a great track record go to their heads. Each adventure gets the utmost attention, so that every hiker, biker and kayaker enjoys the safe, fun and unforgettable experience that we are famous for.

For the adventurous, check out one of the kayaking adventures on offer, or perhaps a 4 or 5 day guided or self-guided hike on the Queen Charlotte Track, a gem among walking tracks in NZ, is more to your liking.

The home of Blue Pearls The original and exclusive stockists of New Zealands only gemstone, the rare and colourful, Blue Pearl.

to Zealand and B r e r egrown t Unique o nlocally BNew lin u e P e a r l s the Tory Channel, The home of Blue Pearls our rare and exclusive Blue Pearls The original and exclusive stockists of New Zealands only gemstone, areand handset the highest the rare colourful,to Blue Pearl. standard on Zealand site by professional Unique to New and in Tory 18ctChannel, Gold and grownJewellers locally in the our rare and exclusive Pearls Sterling Blue Silver.

are handset to the highest standard on site by professional Jewellers in 18ct Gold and Sterling Silver.

Unknown to most travelers, nestled next to the navigation beacons which guid vessels entering the Marlborough Sounds and the Port of Picton lies the only fa the world to produce Brereton Blue Pearls.

Unknown to most travelers, nestled next to the navigation beacons which guide all

Formerly Akaroa Blue Pearl, Brereton Blue has the vesselsknown enteringas thean Marlborough Sounds and the the Port of Picton lies Pearl the only farm in highes of any, and is onethe of world the rarest cultured pearls the world. Unlike other pear to produce Brereton Bluein Pearls.

Brereton Blue Pearl is grown for an entire 3 years under the watchful and caring Formerly known as an Akaroa Blue Pearl, the Brereton Blue Pearl has the highest lustre of the Radon Island.

This toworld. ensure that each and of any, andfamily is one ofon theArapawa rarest cultured pearls in is the Unlike other pearls, a every p of the highest quality thickness it can be harvested, meticulously Brereton Blue Pearl is grown for an before entire 3 years under the watchful and caring eyesgrade of handset the Radonby family Arapawafamily’s Island. This is to ensure that each pearl is theonBrereton professional team inand theirevery Picton workshop of the highest quality thickness before it can be harvested, meticulously graded then handset by the Brereton family’s professional team in their Picton workshop.

- Paua at 1.5 years old and a pearl being - Paua at 1.5 years old and a pearl being checked beforeharvest. harvest. checked before

- Pearl farm on Arapawa Island

- Pearl farm on Arapawa Island.

With over 6000 pieces sold globally With over 6000 pieces sold globally over thethe last last 16 years we have over 16 years we have become renowned as the worlds become renowned as the worlds foremost Blue Pearl specialists.

foremost Blue Pearl specialists.

We also do repairs, restoration and manufacturing, includingrestoration wedding We also do repairs, and and engagement rings. manufacturing, including wedding Our website and store in and Pictonengagement are currently the only places in the rings. world you can buy our stunning gems.

Our website and store in Picton are currently the only places in you 2 L o n d oworld n Qu a ycan , Pbuy i c tour o nstunning 7 2 2 0 gems.

Ph/Fax: (03) 5737 351

2w wL w o .nbdr eor n Qnub a P ai c 7220 eto l uye,p e r l ts o . cno m Ph/Fax: (03) 5737 351

www.breretonbluepearls.com

marlborougH

Events Picton Maritime Festival Saturday 18th January Visit Picton on the 18th January 2014 to enjoy all things maritime at the free to enter festival which is held on the Picton foreshore area from 11am to 12 midnight.

The Marlborough Wine & Food Festival Saturday 8th February The Marlborough Wine & Food Festival is a celebration of Marlborough wine, food and New Zealand’s leading musical talent and is held at the original home of Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc, Brancott Vineyard.

Classic Hits Winery Tour Saturday 1st March The 8th annual Classic Hits Winery Tour 2014 will visit Villa Maria Estate in Marlborough this summer Havelock Mussel Festival – Saturday 15th March An event for the whole family celebrating Havelock’s famous seafood, the Greenshell™ Mussel.

Summertime in Marlborough is undeniably special, blue skies, long balmy days. For more information on Marlborough or to book your next family holiday visit www.lovemarlborough.co.nz

STOP! Go no further until you have had a little adventure in one of NZ’s most beautiful coastal playgrounds right here in Picton. Whether you have a few hours or a few days, come and see us on Picton’s waterfront, or give us a call.

You can choose from:

SEA KAYAKING guided trips or hire from half to many days SIT-ON-TOPS hire for shoreline paddling around Picton harbour – perfect for the family MOUNTAIN BIKING ride Queen Charlotte Track, or local rides, for a few hours or a day PADDLE BOARDING like walking on water, great fun for an hour or two

www.marlboroughsounds.co.nz 70

“ Wonderful introduction in a glorious setting – will always remember as an introduction to pristine NZ” - T.Q, USA

The Waterfront, Picton P: 0800 283 283 E:adventure@marlboroughsounds.co.nz

picton

Picton - the perfect place to stop

By Destination Marlborough

Photo: Richard Briggs Photography

72

picton

Deep Fried Food Free Since 2000 Purveyors of natural home cooked food First Havana Coffee pourers South of Wellington No.1 Live Music Venue of the South Island Best View Ever

Picton is a picturesque port town and is the perfect place to use as a base for experiencing the Marlborough Sounds.

Picton, nestled at the head of the famous Queen Charlotte Sound, has blossomed into a hub of tourism activity, but it’s still managed to keep the relaxed atmosphere and friendliness.

Picton offers the perfect location to use as a launching pad to experience all that the Queen Charlotte Sound offers; jump on a mail boat cruise, take an eco-tour to Motuara Island bird sanctuary, kayak in the tranquil waters of Anakiwa or spend the day at a lodge enjoying the local seafood.

The town itself offers a range of activities for families and the young at heart, head down to the foreshore for an afternoon of swimming either in the sea or for the smaller family members; the famous Donald Duck paddling pool that has cooled the feet of adults and toddlers for over 40 years. At the Western side of the foreshore is Ecoworld Aquarium, New Zealand’s third largest and home to Blue Penquins, Kakariki, Tuataras and more.

Picton’s Mini Golf course is also located at the foreshore and after over 100 visits has still not lost its appeal or its challenge.

Picton has a range of walkways with varying degrees of difficulty and all offering spectacular views.

A favourite has always been the walk up Essons valley to the towns damn. The majority of the walk is under a canopy of native bush alive with birdsong or at night awash with the lights of glow worms. Karaka Point is another well visited spot where you can take a 10 minute walk to the water’s edge and experience views over the Queen Charlotte Sound.

It is easy to spend an afternoon leisurely walking around the shops which offer a range of arts and crafts, including jewellery, paintings from local artist Keith Reed and Rick Edmonds, green stone carvings and handmade wood products.

Visitors are also spoilt for choice when it comes to where to eat. Fish and Chips on the foreshore is always a favourite but if you want something a little more up market, cafes and restaurants offer city quality coffee and a range of local produce from a hearty pub meal to a fine dining experience. A glass of wine matched with salmon looking over the Picton marina cannot be beaten.

73

MARLBOROUGH

Boutique Gourmet FoodAccommodation & Wine Amongst the Vines Destination

The Mussel CapiTal of The World in the heart of Havelock, Marlborough

Luxury Vineyard Suites

in the heart of Marlborough’s Golden mile Golden Mile

Home of The Vintners Room Restaurant Open 7days 2.30pm until late

Guaranteed fresh Marlborough mussels harvested in local waters, fresh and live to our door all year round.

With the influence of our Italian Head Chef there are also a variety of seafood and non-seafood dishes, vegetarian and children’s options. Our menu has been carefully matched with local Marlborough wines.

To make a booking visit Picton or Blenheim iSite Book at www.mvh.co.nz • 03 572 5094

We are easy to find – just look for the giant pot of mussels on the roof.

73 Main Rd, Havelock, Marlborough. Ph: 03 574 2824 www.themusselpot.co.nz

KOANUI

Possibly the most fun you’ll ever have on a bike!

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If you are looking for budget accommodation that is centrally located look no further. We are just a couple of minutes walk to the supermarket, bus stop and centre of town.

Your Hosts: Steve & Jo Hill Hillsfield House, 33 Blicks Rd, Renwick, Marlborough P: 03 572 7954 M: 021 432 276 E: info@winetoursbybike.co.nz

www.winetoursbybike.co.nz

74

11AM A 2PM EX31 PIRY 2 8 FEB 20142013 expiry december onboard magazine, conditions apply

We have ensuite rooms with double, triple, quad and 6 bed dorm to choose from. We cater to backpackers looking for a cheap bed, and also couples wanting a nice ensuite room.

660 Main Road, Stoke, NELSON P: 03 578 7487 E: koanui@xtra.co.nz 33 Main Street, Blenheim www.koanui.co.nz

/ CAFÉ +64 03 547 0329

MARLBOROUGH

Top 10 Things To Do In Marlborough

By Destination Marlborough Marlborough sits at the top of the South Island and is famed worldwide for its Sauvignon Blanc as well as the fabulous outdoor pursuits the region offers.

Wine, water and wilderness combine to create a relaxing escape in Marlborough.

Whether you are seeking adventure, pampering or even romance Marlborough serves it up in style accompanied with a glass of wine.

There are tons of great things to do in Marlborough but these are ten of our top picks to while away a sunny Marlborough day.

1.

Take a winery tour. There is a variety of local wine trail operators providing a popular way to see and sample what Marlborough has to offer, be it by car, coach or bicycle!

2.

Cruise the waterways of the Marlborough Sounds by boat.

3.

Walk or mountain bike the famous Queen Charlotte Track for one day, or four.

4.

Wake up in paradise, stay in the vines or have a night away in the Marlborough Sounds

5.

Don’t miss Visit the Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre, for a visual feast of World War One aircraft.

6.

Get active on the water; kayaking, sailing, dolphin swimming or do a self-drive safari.

7.

Catch your own dinner on a fishing trip in the sounds.

8.

Spend a day in the vibrant seaside town of Picton exploring the foreshore and art galleries.

9.

Grab a map and follow one of Marlborough’s scenic drives.

10. Enjoy a leisurely lunch amongst the vines or sample local produce from the farm gate or weekend market.

WhATever your choice we know you’re going to love Marlborough.

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MARLBOROUGH WINE

Vine, wine, dine Saint Clair Cellar Door and Café, Open 7 days a week 10am – 4pm.

Enjoy the relaxed vineyard setting, award winning wines and great food. Selmes Road, Rapaura

www.lawsonsdryhills.co.nz

Our cellar door on Alabama Rd, Blenheim offers casual & informative wine tastings and wine sales, 7 days, 10am – 5pm.

PH +64 3 578 7674 or wine@lawsonsdryhills.co.nz

76

Freephone 0800 317 319 www.saintclair.co.nz

What is it that makes the wines of Marlborough so distinctively exquisite?

Winemaking in Marlborough began in earnest in the early 1980s. Attracted by the high sunshine hours and the stony fertile land of the Wairau plains and more recently the Awatere Valley, these avant-garde of Marlborough winemakers were soon producing award-winning Sauvignon Blanc wines, launching Marlborough onto the world stage as a wine producing region. Others soon followed and now the region boasts over 150 registered wineries, 38 of which have open cellar doors where you can taste and buy.

77

MARLBOROUGH WINE

Experience the Romance of New Zealand’s First Underground Rock Cellar & Taste our Award Winning Wines

Bookings Ph: 03 5737 035, S.H.1, Koromiko

1KM SOUTH OF PICTON’S AIRPORT

WWW.JOHANNESHOF.CO.NZ

photo: frank gasteiger

isabel vineyard

With so many wineries to choose from, why not take advantage of a pre-arranged wine tour with a local tour operator and visit a selection of the region’s top wine producers. You can also map out your own route to explore your favourites: self-drive or travel in style in a chauffeur-driven luxury car. If you like to mix your daily exercise with the pleasure of a tasting or two then a popular alternative is a cycle tour. The Marlborough Wine Trail map is the perfect guide and you can pick up your free copy for either the Picton or Blenheim i-SITES. Whichever mode of transport you choose be sure to stop off for a bite along the way at one of the many winery restaurants. To really immerse yourself in Marlborough’s wine country there are plenty of delightful places to stay amid the vines as well as several boutique spas where you can be pampered from head to toe. Special events run throughout the year which include wine and food matched dinners with celebrity chefs, harvest weekends, dining at the winemakers table and blending your own Sauvignon Blanc.

As well as the more renowned Marlborough wine labels there are plenty of family owned and boutique wineries offering their own twist on the region’s traditional Sauvignon Blanc and emerging wine varieties like Pinot Noir, Riesling and other aromatics. Take a behind the scenes tour to meet the winemakers and taste their wares, many of which are available in limited quantities exclusively at their cellar door.

The perfect way by far to try all the fantastic wines in Marlborough is to attend the annual Marlborough Wine & Food Festival. The festival is New Zealand’s original and longest running wine festival. Held at Brancott Estate amongst the vineyards since 1987, on the second Saturday in February and this year the event celebrates its 30th Anniversary.

Featuring approximately 60 wineries, 30 food stalls, a culinary pavilion, wine workshops with local wine makers and the ever popular Fashion in the Vines competition this is a great day out.

For more information: visit www.lovemarlborough.co.nz

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MARLBOROUGH WINE

wine Facts Location Latitude 41°30’S, pop. 43,035 (comparable latitude Douro Valley Portugal, but cooler)

History 1873 First grapes planted by Scotsman David Herd in the southern valleys 1973 Commercial planting began at Montana’s Brancott Estate at Fairhall 1980 Marlborough Grapegrowers Association Incorporated established 1984 Phylloxera outbreak first recorded and widespread by 1992 1985 First Marlborough Wine & Food Festival 1986 Oversupply of unsuitable varieties leading to Government sponsored vine pull 1986 Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc (Hunters) awarded top three trophies at London International Wine Show 1992 Wine Marlborough Limited formed as the trading company for Marlborough Winegrowers Association 2009 30th anniversary of the regions first Sauvignon Blanc vintage 2012 Marlborough produces 72% of New Zealand’s 2012 vintage

Size Year

Growers

Wineries

Vineyard (ha)

Tonnes

2007

530

104

21,200

120,888

2008

524

109

22,277

194,639

2009

568

130

23,600

192,128

2010

605

130

23,920

183,000

2011

600

142

23,964

244,893

2012

600

142

23,964

188,649

varieties VARIETY

2012 (T)

2011 (T)

CHANGE

% CHANGE

Sauvignon Blanc

162,910

205,969

-43,059

-21%

Pinot Noir

9,859

16,355

-6,496

-40%

Chardonnay

7,012

10,330

-3,318

-32%

Pinot Gris

5,661

7,595

-1,934

-25%

Riesling

2,125

2,795

-670

-24%

Other

1,081

1,849

-768

41%

Totals

188,649

244,893

-56,244

-23%

Climate • On average 2,457 annual sunshine hours (6.73hrs/day).

Hawkes Bay averages 2,281 hours • On average 649mm (25.5 inches) of annual rainfall fall in Marlborough • Moderate diurnal temperature change – commonly a 10°C / 50°F range • Maori refer to the region as “Kei puta te Wairau’ / The place with the hole in the cloud”

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kaikoura

KAIKOURA Feel dominated by the natural environment, towering mountains and spectacular coastlines. Experience whales, seals, seafood and more…Adventures and tours take you so close to wildlife – you’ll never be the same!!

KAIKOURA A SUSTAINABLY CERTIFIED COMMUNITY Through the international Earthcheck program the Kaikoura community is committing to protecting our natural environment.

T: 03 3195641

•

West End, Kaikoura

www.kaikoura.co.nz

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kaikoura

Be coastal in Kaikoura With a population of about 3,600 residents, the Kaikoura Township has a rich history and culture and is a town with a fascinating history. Located on a rocky peninsula, protruding from lush farmland beneath the mountains, Kaikoura is part of the popular Alpine Pacific Triangle, a touring route which links it with the Hurunui district.

The Maori name Kaikoura translates to ‘meal of crayfish’ (Kai - food, koura - crayfish), and it is crayfish for which the region has traditionally been famous. The area’s abundant food sources attracted Maori settlement, and the remains of several pa sites can

still be seen on the peninsula to this day.

In the waters off the peninsula, a complex marine system provides an abundantly rich habitat for marine mammals and seabirds making it an ideal place for getting close to nature.

Kaikoura is a base for wildlife experiences of all kinds.

Kaikoura’s environment is truly spectacular – the village is caught between the rugged Seaward Kaikoura Range and the Pacific Ocean. In winter the mountains are covered with snow, adding to the drama of the landscape.

Kaikoura’s special talent is marine mammal encounters – whales, fur seals and dolphins live permanently in the coastal waters. Whale watching trips leave the town several times a day and the local seal colony is always entertaining. There are plenty of cafés, restaurants and shops to explore.

Fun facts • Several different species of whale can be seen off Kaikoura at different times of the year, but almost always the huge Sperm Whales. Flukes lifting clear at the start of the deep dive, adolescent male Sperm Whales enjoy the rich diet of the Kaikoura waters while building up their strength to move to the mating grounds of the warm north. Regularly diving to depths of one kilometre, Sperm Whales have been known to dive to 3 kilometres, holding their breath for up to two hours - perhaps gulping down a few groper or wrestling with a giant squid.

• European history can be traced back to 1770.

Captain Cook first discovered the Kaikoura peninsula, believing it to be an island. The first shore whaling station was established in 1843, located near where Fyffe House still stands today.

Other whaling stations soon followed, and at one stage the industry employed over one hundred men in the Kaikoura district alone. Whale numbers steadily declined after 1850 and the exportation of them became un-economic, leading whalers to turn to alternative means of existence, such as farming. Whaling continued sporadically until as recently as 1964 when the last of NZ’ s whaling operations ceased.

• Kaikoura has a rich history and culture. Maori heritage is reflected in the name, Kaikoura. Tama ki Te Rangi arrived in the area many hundreds of years ago and was tired and hungry. He found an abundance of crayfish and named the area “Te Ahi Kaikoura a Tama ki Te Rangi” - the fire that cooked the crayfish of Tama ki Te Rangi.

Kai = food / Koura = crayfish

81

KAIKOURA

Kaikoura Kayaks SUMMER MARINE MAMMAL Encounters Summer is a great time to kayak with Kaikoura’s Marine Life as you are guaranteed to paddle with Fur Seals and have chance encounters with Dusky Dolphins. world of whales.co.nz

Whale-watching flights Alpine & scenic

flights

Adventure flights Private charter flights Commercial

work

In Kaikoura, it’s no secret that the marine life outnumbers the humans so why not meet some of the locals of the ocean world.

Whether you want to paddle with seals, go kayak fishing, hire your own paddleboard / kayak or up skill you’re paddling through a kayak school – it’s all available to you at Kaikoura Kayaks.

The Kayak Store is stocked with top of the range gear and you can even shop online.

For the nature lovers, the curious New Zealand Fur Seals and Dusky Dolphins are only a few paddle strokes away and Kaikoura Kayak’s local guides would love to introduce them to you around the Kaikoura Peninsula.

Kaikoura Kayak’s hassle free half day eco friendly tours offer a safe, enjoyable and interactive trip with little effort and a whole lot of good fun - suitable for all ages and abilities and operating year round. Rated “Top Choice” activity while in Kaikoura from Lonely Planet.

FREE PHONE 0800 455 4354 Located right next to the Railway Station

On a vast ocean’s edge, a little whaler’s cottage rides on a whale’s back...

F Y FFE HO US E

62 Avoca Street, Kaikoura On the way to the seal colony Open to Visit: May to September - 10am to 4pm Thurs to Mon October to April - 10am to 5:30pm 7 days

www.fyffehouse.co.nz 82

For more information: or to book, freephone 0800 452 456 or visit www.kaikourakayaks.co.nz

L Pla onely net ’s t ‘Bes t m op 10 a enc oun rine t wo rld ers’ wid e

Seal Swim Kaikoura Swimming with New Zealand furs seals in the shallow bays of the beautiful Kaikoura Peninsula has recently been listed as one of the world’s top 10 ‘Best Marine Encounters’ by Lonely Planet and is well worthy of the accolade...

Foreign travelers have been flocking to the area for many years however it is only recently that the kiwis have started to take an interest in what all the fuss is about.

Relatively uninspiring on land, once in the water and under the right guidance, the seals are transformed into cheeky, inquisitive playmates of the sea, very similar to dogs in nature.

Agile and graceful, these creatures will enchant you with their underwater acrobatics and puppy like curiosity.

Seal Swim Kaikoura provides all customers with thick wetsuits and snorkeling equipment before guiding them out on a 2.5

hour boat trip to snorkel and swim with the local fur seals. No experience necessary!

An awesome experience, the tour is a great way to introduce and/or remind the young and the young at heart of the wonder and excitement of our natural environment and its inspiring inhabitants!

Seal Swim Kaikoura has now recevied the TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence award for three years running.

Freephone: 0800 732 579 or www.sealswimkaikoura.co.nz Adults $70 - $110 Children $60 - $70

83

christchurch

Summer in Christchurch a slice of history and a dash of fun!

There is nowhere else in the world where, within two hours of an international airport, you can ski at a world-class alpine resort, play golf, bungy jump, raft, mountain bike, hot-air balloon, wind surf, whale watch and visit internationally-acclaimed wineries and gardens.

Christchurch is New Zealand’s second-largest city and the gateway to the South Island. It is also a city filled with a lot of old, and new history.

Cathedral Square has long been a community focal point in Christchurch City, a place where people come together, in good times and bad, and a backdrop for scores of significant historical events.

As the Garden City reclaims Cathedral Square as the cultural heart of the city, here’s a brief look back at how people have made use of this space over the years.

1981

June 2013

1970s

Cathedral Square re-opens to the public for the first time since the day of the February 22 earthquake in 2011. The Square comes to life again as a space for people to come, relax and enjoy. The Christchurch City Council’s Transitional Square Project sees vibrant new art installations, and the space re-established as a setting for art and cultural performances.

The Wizard of New Zealand (Ian Brakenbury Channell) becomes the most-well known of many colourful characters to entertain and educate in this bustling public space over subsequent decades.

February 22, 2011

Crowds descend on the Square to protest against the Springbok rugby tour.

1972 The Square is redeveloped to offer large areas for pedestrians, with the south-west quadrant closed to traffic.

April 1971 More than 6,000 protestors march into the Square against New Zealand’s involvement in the Vietnam War.

A magnitude 6.3 earthquake strikes the Canterbury region. In the aftermath of the devastating quake, news footage is screened around the globe of crowds of tourists and office workers gathered in the Square, against a background of badly damaged buildings including the Christchurch Cathedral, and the toppled statue of city founder John Robert Godley. The CBD is evacuated soon afterwards, and the Square becomes off limits to the public when it falls within the Central City Red Zone, established by the Canterbury Earthquake Recovery Authority (CERA).

May 1945

1980s-2000s

November 1918

Festivals, New Year’s celebrations, cultural and arts events and performances are held in the Square, including the annual World Buskers Festival, and weekly arts and crafts markets.

A Patriotic Bazaar stands in the Square, becoming a Government Standard Influenza Medicine Depot when the deadly Spanish influenza pandemic swept the globe. Patient “medicine” includes

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Crowds gather in Cathedral Square to celebrate VE Day – the end of World War II – the largest crowds seen since 1918 and the end of World War I.

25 April 1938 The first ANZAC Day Service is held at the Citizens’ War Memorial in Cathedral Square. The Square would continue to host an annual ANZAC Day dawn service every year until 2011.

CHRISTCHURCH

BEFORE

AFTER

whisky, brandy and stout. The Square hosts a procession and rally to mark Armistice Day, and the end of WWI, on November 12.

1860s-1880s

Everybody’s Theatre opens, the first of six theatres to open over the next 15 years around the edge of Cathedral Square. With combined seating for thousands of people, for the next few decades, the Square became a buzzing arts and culture Mecca crowded with hoards of cinema goers. Theatre and film played a major role in the life of the Square until the closing of the last of the cinemas in the 1990s.

Activity in Cathedral Square grows as the heart of the city moves there from Market Square (Victoria Square). Country fairs, cattle and sheep markets were held, and entertainment becomes a key activity, with buskers, side shows and soap box orators common sights.

The Bank of New Zealand Building opened in 1866, and the city’s central Post Office in 1879 shows the Square’s importance as a business services hub.

Steam trains begin operating in Christchurch in 1880, leaving from the Square.

1904

1851

1915

The Square’s long media heritage begins with the opening of the Lyttelton Times Building, printing the city’s major daily newspaper of the time. The media heritage in the Square continued with the opening of The Press Building in 1909, which housed staff for the daily newspaper until the building was damaged in the 2011 earthquake and deconstructed.

The Canterbury Association sets aside the area of the Square for the planned Christchurch Cathedral and a school.

Story from www.christchurchnz.com

VISIT NOW OPEN 10.00 AM – 6.00 PM SEVEN DAYS

Admission charges apply: adults $10

www.quakecity.co.nz

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christchurch

Fully Licensed

We invite you to a very delightful, pleasurable visit to Coriander’s ethnic Indian Restaurant in Christchurch & Kaikoura with a welcome that comes from deep within our heart. The culinary art of selecting piquant condiments and aromatic herbs makes Coriander’s a unique place to wine and dine.

4 locations - Rolleston, Edgeware Mall, Hanmer Springs & Kaikoura

Experience the best of Christchurch with a friendly local guide. Enjoy the history, beautiful gardens, and hear all about the exciting post-earthquake city rebuild.

Original Bike Tour (2 hrs) CBD Rebuild Bike Tour (2 hrs) D A I LY D E PA R T U R E S

Bookings Essential: 0800 733 257 www.chchbiketours.co.nz

ROLLESTON Shop No.8, 70-76 Rolleston Drive Rolleston Square Ph: 03 347 2315 EDGEWARE MALL 76 Edgeware Road Edgeware Mall, Chch Ph: 03 366 7223

Bicycles to hire.

HANMER SPRINGS Shop 5 30 Cnr Conical Hill & Chisholm Ave Ph: 03 315 7616

From $15 for 2 hours to $30 per day.

Tailored tours & long term hire available.

KAIKOURA 17 Beach Road, Kaikoura Ph: 03 319 6844

Bookings recommended (Weekend essential)

www.corianders.co.nz

bellano motel suites

16 Bealey Ave. Christchurch. 03 365 6530

www.vintagepeddler.co.nz

Tothill’s Mazes has a challenging summer corn maze and a Kiwiana themed wooden maze. Our large lawn features a labyrinth, petanque court, volleyball net and a lovely patio area. Bbq’s are available and we serve great coffee, ice creams, cold drinks and confectionary. Enjoy some good old fashioned fun suitable for the whole family.

EQC REPAIR PROPERTY MANAGEMENT CORPORATE RENTALS HOLIDAY ACCOMMODATION FURNISHED & UNFURNISHED We are proud to assist you and your accommodation requirements.

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Qualmark rated 5 star luxury accommodation in central Christchurch.

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493 SHANDS ROAD, HORNBY, CHRISTCHURCH, PH 03 344 3253

www.tothills.com

christchurch

The buskers are coming to town International divas and burlesque kings and queens are among the line-up for the iconic annual street performance event, the 2014 SCIRT World Buskers Festival.

The Christchurch-based festival is the biggest street performance festival in Australasia and is still the most popular feature in the city’s cultural calendar after 21 years.

Artistic director Jodi Wright said as word spreads about the international calibre of the entertainment, the audience is moving beyond the Garden City regulars and the need to secure seats early to avoid missing out is growing.

“We’ve seen the festival grow from a five day showcase in the City Mall with a strong street performance focus, and mainly local talent, to our current base of Busker Park in North Hagley Park with multiple stages, on-site bars and food vendors, and a ten day/ eleven night programme of events that features some of the world’s best comedians, fringe artists, musicians and visual artists,” she said.

“We’ve had to change the way we do things after the earthquakes, including moving out of the inner city. While we

still have our street performance roots – you can turn up at any time and be entertained – our new base means we’ve developed a number of indoor venues and fringe theatre style events that allow us to host a whole new range of performers.

“The scale of the festival is so much bigger but I think the main reason people keep coming back, and more people are checking us out, is because whether you’re a fan of highly skilled acrobatics, hoola-hoopers, trapeze artists, musicians, dancers, circus and vaudeville skits, burlesque, or you’re looking to entertain the kids in the school holidays – you’re guaranteed a good time and some belly laughs.”

For the indoor fringe theatre-style shows, the 2014 programme will see the return of 2013 stand out hit Le Gateau Chocolat with his new show I Heart Chocolat (R16) and local boy done good Sam Wills taking time out from an international touring schedule to bring The Boy with Tape on his Face – More Tape (R16) back to Christchurch.

The all new incredibly high calibre iSite Buskers Burlesque (R18) will be hosted by star emcees of Speigelworld’s Empire, which premiered in New York City (off Broadway) last year, and will feature America’s Got Talent semi-finalist Michelle L’Amour, past World Burlesque King Captain Kidd aka Mark Winmill, star 87

christchurch

PHOTOGRAPHY BY NICOLE REED

of Cirque de Soleil’s Love, star of circus-cabaret show La Soiree Nate Cooper, and current reigning Queen of Burlesque Imogen Kelly.

The popular Nothing but Stand-Up (R18) series will this year be a battle of the sexes with male-only and female-only comedian nights hosted by Jeremy Elwood and Urzila Carlson from Seven Days and accompanied by Stuart Goldsmith, Nick Rado, David Quirk, Lori Bell, Justine Smith and Patsy Decline.

Michele A’Court, voted Female Comedian of the Decade 2010 by the NZ Comedy Guild, will be presenting her new show Stuff I Forgot to Tell My Daughter.

American bad boy magician Paul Nathan will perform his I Hate Children Children’s Show as well as something for the grown-ups with An Hour of Magic (R20), and the UK’s new international cabaret scene star, Dusty Limits, will be displaying his three-octave range and merciless wit.

For the street acts - clowns, contortionists, circus performers, acrobats and performers that flat out defy description are descending from Israel, USA, The Netherlands, Mexico, the UK, Australia and our own backyard.

In all, the festival will feature 55 acts from 10 countries and will run from 16 to 26 January 2014.

While the majority of the festival will be held at Busker Park in North Hagley Park, the festival will also be spreading the laughs across the city at The Terrace Pitch, Lane Neave Music Pitch – Re:Start Mall, Gap Filler Pallet Pavilion, New Brighton Basketball Courts, Botanic Gardens, Mashina Lounge – Christchurch Casino and at The Press Club – Christ’s College.

The online pre-release seat offer is available now until seats are gone.

ASKEW ONE BANKSY KIDZOOM ANTHONY LISTER ROA WONGI

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To beat the queue and book pre-release seats and view the full programme visit www.worldbuskersfestival.com.

AT CANTERBURY MUSEUM OPENS 20 DECEMBER

CHRISTCHURCH

International Antarctic Centre Your Antarctic Adventure…

Antarctica… The coldest, driest and windiest place on earth and more than 98% covered in ice. Incredibly dangerous, the earths 5th largest continent radiates a magical feeling across its untouched vast wilderness of white.

Antarctica is quite simply one of the world’s most amazing places and truly the only place on earth that is still as it should be….

At the International Antarctic Centre, you can have an authentic Antarctic experience without leaving Christchurch!

One of New Zealand’s best tourist attractions, the International Antarctic Centre has recently been awarded TripAdviser Certificate of Excellence and offers visitors of all ages an interactive, tactile, fun and exciting experience of Antarctica.

You’ll experience the four seasons of Antarctica, snow and ice, a storm, learn about life in modern day Antarctica and Scott Base, and hang out with Little Blue Penguins! There’s also the famously exciting Hagglund ride, an awesome simulated 4D cruise plus heaps more! Allow 2-3 hours to fully enjoy your Antarctic experience.

NOT TO MISS • Hagglund Ride Authentic, Antarctic and Amphibious! The only one of its kind in the world – buckle up, this ride is FUN! • Four seasons of Antarctica with stunning light show, readings

from Scott’s diaries and snow every 7 minutes.

• Snow & Ice Experience exchillerating fun at -8˚C! • Antarctic Storm Blows through the Snow & Ice experience on the hour throughout the day.

• 4D Extreme Theatre Amazing simulated cruise around Antarctica 3D movie with surprise 4D special effects.

• NZ Penguin Encounter - Little Blue Penguins - the world’s smallest penguin.

• Penguin Feeding show at 10.30am and 3.30pm daily.

• HD Movie - ‘Beyond the Frozen Sunset’ a stunning movie following a seasonal arc from sunset to sunrise.

A fully licensed café and bar is open from 8.00am daily and take some time to browse the extensive range of gifts and souvenirs in the retail shop.

Wheelchair Access - The indoor attraction is fully accessible for wheelchairs. Wheelchairs are available for use upon request.

What to wear - The attraction is fully air conditioned for your comfort so you can come as you are. Warm jackets and rubber overshoes are provided for the snow and ice experience.

FREE Penguin Express Shuttle Departs for the Antarctic Centre on the hour from 10am outside the Museum on Rolleston Ave (last bus 4pm) and Papanui Road, opposite the Cotswold Hotel (88 Papanui Rd) at 5 minutes past the hour. Returns to the city on the half hour (last bus 4.30pm).

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WAIMAKARIRI

Visit Waimakariri

The Waimakariri District, gateway to North Canterbury, sits 20km north of Christchurch.

Here you will find picturesque sandy beaches, bountiful fishing, plenty of walking and biking trails to explore and loads of activities and events to amuse everyone from families to car enthusiasts, couples to those needing rest and relaxation.

The thriving rural towns of Rangiora, Kaiapoi, Woodend and Oxford offer boutique shopping and unique cafes, including Seagars of Oxford made popular by NZ cooking icon Jo Seagar.

While the weekly markets, especially on a Friday in Ohoka are something not to be missed.

On of New Zealand’s newest towns is Pegasus; home to a beautiful feature lake, natural wetlands and a championship golf course.

NORTH CANTERBURY

www.visitwaimakariri.co.nz Discover our stunning beaches, tracks to explore on bike or foot, fishing rivers, boutique shops, unique cafes, innovative markets and events galore!

Kaiapoi i-SITE. 53 Charles Street, Kaiapoi p: 327 3134 e: info@kaiapoivisitorcentre.co.nz 90

AKAROA

OUI, OUI

A little slice of French provincial can be found just 75km from Christchurch in the historic French and British settlement, Akaroa.

Nestled in the heart of an ancient volcano, Akaroa oozes European charm from its galleries, craft stores, and cafés, with its colonial architecture and stunning surrounds.

When visitors tire of lunching on delicious produce in town, they can take some time out to relax and sail the outer bays and harbours in this slice of paradise with Fox II Sailing.

Frolic with the dolphins in the crater of an extinct volcano on New Zealand’s oldest gaffed rigged ketch and enjoy the wildlife of Akaroa Harbour up close. Take in the sea and hills or take part as one of the crew. See Hectors dolphins, yellow-eyed and blue penguins, New Zealand fur seals, albatross and other sea birds. Be surrounded by giant volcanic sea cliffs, caves and rock formations along the journey.

Or, you could do as the French would and simply sit back and soak up the sun.

Sail in the crater of an extinct volcano and the Pacific Ocean on NZ's oldest wooden ketch.

• #1 Tour in Akaroa 2013 – TripAdvisor • Dolphins GUARANTEED! • History and wildlife narration • Snacks, drinks and FREE coffee/tea/HC • 10:30am & 1:30pm every day, 3 hrs • ONLY $75pp www.akaroafoxsail.co.nz Call 0800 369 7245 E-Mail info@akaroafoxsail.co.nz

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SPRINGFIELD VISITOR INFORMATION BURO & STATION 73 CAFÉ

Springfield Railway Station, King Street, Springfield Canterbury – Open Daily from 8.30am

Friendly, helpful service for local knowledge and bookings for activities, accommodation, tours/ transport including daily TranzAlpine Train Journey.

Enjoy a coffee, taste our famous homemade baking; browse our retail area or railway photos and memorabilia. Enjoy our magnificent views of the Torlesse Range!!

BECOME A FAN Springfield Visitor Information Buro & Station73 Cafe

Springfield Railway Station, King Street Springfield, Canterbury | Open Daily from 8.30am P: 03 3184000 E: info@springfieldinformation.co.nz www.springfieldinformation.co.nz

Riders at stunning Lake Tekapo.

RAKAIA RIVER HOLIDAY PARK AND MOTELS

Mid Canterbury’s best Holiday Park Ashburton District Tourism Awards

‘MORE THAN JUST GREAT FISHING’ Tent, powered sites, plus a range of accommodation in a tree clad, sheltered Holiday Park.

Rakaia - Central to exploring the secrets of Mid Canterbury.

Only 40 minutes south of Christchurch on SH1.

Main South Road, Rakaia 7710 Reservations: 0800 camprakaia 0800 226772 email: stay@rakaiariverholidaypark.co.nz

www.rakaiariverholidaypark.co.nz

Canterbury Set in the centre of the South island and stretching from the Southern Alps in the west with the mighty Mount Hutt as a backdrop, and to the Pacific Ocean in the east, you’ll be spoilt for choice on how to spend your time in New Zealand’s largest region, Canterbury.

Amongst the snow-capped mountains, rugged high country, glacial lakes and rushing rivers, you’ll discover plenty of traditional rural hospitality.

Southern Alps Canterbury’s landscape is dominated by New Zealand’s highest mountain Aoraki Mt Cook and the Southern Alps - a chain of mountains that’s bigger than its European namesake.

In the air, on water or in the mountains, Canterbury is an adventure and nature haven of unique outdoor experiences - huge sperm whales cruising the Kaikoura coast, dolphins playing in Akaroa harbour, and cheeky alpine parrots entertaining tourists at Arthur’s Pass.

Christchurch, the South Island’s largest city is a ‘garden city’ of over 700 parks.

It’s also home to two significant annual flower festivals in February and March.

The Alpine Triangle touring route - a scenic highway that traverses pastoral hill country and rugged seascapes - connects Hanmer Springs Alpine Spa, Waipara Valley wine region and coastal Kaikoura.

WEST COAST

Heritage According to oral tradition, Māori first arrived in the Canterbury region about a thousand years ago.

Originally occupied by Ngāti Māmoe and Waitaha iwi (tribes), Ngai Tahu from the North Island eventually took over as the dominant South Island tribe. Māori rock art sites throughout southern Canterbury provide a key to early Māori history.

Otautahi - the area where Christchurch sits - was a low-lying swampy region that attracted Māori to readily available foods like eel, inanga (whitebait), fish, pigeon and swamp fowl.

Kaiapoi, one of the largest Māori settlements, was a major trading centre for West Coast pounamu (greenstone / jade).

Sealers and whalers were early European visitors, and in 1850 the first group of European settlers arrived in Lyttelton harbour.

Christchurch became a ‘city by royal charter’ in 1856.

Nature and Wildlife Between mountains and sea, Canterbury offers diverse wildlife and nature attractions.

Kaikoura - in spectacular coastal alpine scenery between Christchurch and Picton - is an eco-tourism jewel.

This little town with abundant marine life offers many activities such as whale watching tours, where visitors can see many different species - including huge sperm whale - throughout the year.

Dusky and rare Hector’s dolphins and fur seals are common, along with many sea birds and other marine life.

Dolphins often visit Banks Peninsula, and cruises from Akaroa

LAKE TEKAPO - WINDOW TO THE UNIVERSE HOME OF AORAKI MACKENZIE’S INTERNATIONAL DARK SKY RESERVE MT JOHN OBSERVATORY CAFÉ AND DAY TOURS

Drive or hike to the summit of Mt John. Enjoy your coffee with spectacular views at the Astro Cafe. Imagine viewing day-time stars, then visiting NZ’s largest telescope!

MT JOHN TWILIGHT AND NIGHT TOURS

Join us for our famous Observatory Tour. We provide transport, equipment and guidance. Navigate your way around the Southern Sky using powerful lasers, while telescopes unlock familiar planets through to rich star clusters.

BOOKING IS ADVISED For more details call 03 680 6960 or email: info@earthandsky co.nz www.earthandsky.co.nz

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- an old French town - encounter marine life that includes Hector’s dolphins, seabirds, seals, and white-flippered blue penguins. Some tours offer swimming with dolphins.

Arthur’s Pass national park - the main alpine crossing between the east and west coasts - has impressive alpine scenery, unique native flora and fauna.

The network of mountain tracks take walkers to native alpine plants and wildlife, including the cheeky kea - the world’s only alpine parrot.

Lake Tekapo and Aoraki Mount Cook, in the Mackenzie Country, are the subject of a ground-breaking application to UNESCO for World Heritage status as a ‘Starlight Reserve’. This area attracts ‘astro tourists’ drawn to one of few places on earth where it’s still possible to view a starlit night sky devoid of light pollution.

Adventure / Outdoors Canterbury’s vast plains, alpine and coastal landscape, and favourable atmospheric conditions make it one of New Zealand’s finest ballooning locations.

Aoraki Mt Cook national park is a world-renowned climbing and hiking destination. Glaciers cover 40 percent of the park and there are 23 peaks over 3,000m, including towering Aoraki Mt Cook. Mount Cook village, at the bottom of the mountain, is a base for climbers and hikers.

Hanmer Springs, north of Christchurch, has adventure and relaxation. Adventure activities include mountain biking and hiking trails, trout and salmon fishing, jet boating, bungy jumping and quad biking.

At famed Hanmer Springs thermal pools and spa, visitors can relax in thermal sulphur and hot rock pools.

Dare to ride the world’s largest inflatable water slide? Tekapo Springs has brought the world’s largest inflatable water slide to New Zealand, making it the first location outside of the USA to have this attraction. Standing 11 metres high, 53 metres long and 24 metres wide, the waterslide will be positioned on the outdoor rink at Tekapo Springs from November 2013 through to March 2014.

The TRIPPO has three chutes providing hours of fun for the whole family. A great way to enjoy the long summer days!

Children 3 years and older can ride, but if you’re between 3 and 5 years, you must ride with an adult. Entry price lets you ride all day.

Home to arguably the most dramatic landscape in New Zealand, Aoraki Mt Cook National Park boasts the tallest mountain, largest glacier, darkest skies and the only glacial lakes with icebergs. With activities, tours and attractions to suit every taste, The Hermitage is the perfect place to base your adventure and discover why this region has endeared itself to Kiwi adventure seekers for so long.

Experience the Tasman Glacier, New Zealands largest glacier, in a truly unique way.

Visit our website

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The Aoraki Mackenzie Dark Sky Reserve is a ‘gold-rated’ reserve, meaning the darkness of our night skies is spectacular.

Experience an awe-inspiring museum, theatre and planetarium showcasing night sky extravaganzas and the 3D movie ‘Mount Cook Magic’.

or call

A unique 4WD & Argo adventure with close-up views of the Tasman Glacier and its gigantic moraine walls.

Great photographic opportunities.

mt hutt/methven

METHVEN TRANSFORMS IN SUMMER

Better known as the place to stay when skiing at Mt Hutt, visit in summer and Methven transforms. With the skiers gone, the streets are quieter and the tranquility is welcome. You get to experience Methven in a more laid back mood when the locals have more time to chat and play.

The warmer months are perfect for playing golf at the Methven Golf Club with its enviable location gazing towards Mt Hutt or for snatching a romantic getaway at a local B&B. A great way to view Mid-Canterbury’s amazing scenery is by air and you get to choose between a helicopter, plane or hot air balloon for your scenic flight in the Methven region. You have to rise early to catch a hot air balloon flight, but the experience with Aoraki Balloon Safaris beats a sleep-in every time. You enjoy the most awe-inspiring sense of peace, not to mention the bird’s eye views!

Step it up a gear with a high octane skydive or 4WD high country adventure, or jet boating at the Rakaia Gorge.

Home to some of the best fishing in the world, the Methven Region has endless opportunities for anglers, with its wide range of rivers and lakes that hold Salmon and Trout. Packages are available which allow you to enjoy an enthralling jet boat ride over braided streams and through the scenic Rakaia Gorge in lure of the Chinook King Salmon or the brown and rainbow trout.

Learn a new skill by joining a class at the nationally renowned Methven Summer School. Painting and sculpture, cooking and writing, cheese making and wine tasting, students flock from all over New Zealand every January.

For dining out, try one of the dozen or so local eateries or venture a little further afield to boutique restaurants in the foothills. Choose from sumptuous 5 star accommodation through to budget options. For a small town, Methven presents all the choices of a city with resorts, luxury B&Bs, motels, backpackers

and camping grounds offering more than 2000 beds.

As one of the Canterbury Plain’s agricultural hubs, Methven’s farming backbone also comes into its own during summer. The fields around Methven burst with colour; crops, vegetables and flowers spanning shades of purple, green, yellow and brown.

Bringing both the agriculture and ski industry together is the recently opened New Zealand Alpine and Agriculture Encounter.

The Encounter tells the stories of the mountains, plains and the people who live there, bringing to life the tales of the tenacity and ingenuity behind the development of two very important industries central to New Zealand - snow sports and agriculture.

Climb into a header cab, operate an excavator or see how milk is made. Experience being in an ice-cave or laugh at the antics of our early kiwi skiers.

If you’re a water enthusiast, head inland to the Lake Clearwater and Lake Camp for sailing, kayaking, jet boating and windsurfing.

Bird watchers will thrill at the sight of some of New Zealand’s rarest species.

Methven’s high country with its tussock grasslands, aquamarine lakes and rugged peaks inspired the Lords of the Rings filmmakers. Barely 45 minutes from Methven sits Mt Potts, the high country station where the city of Edoras was created on Mt Sunday for “the Two Towers” film.

Another attraction is the new Hakatere Conservation Park; more than 60,000 hectares of rugged mountain country, tussock land, beech forest, rivers and lakes between the Rakaia and Rangitata Rivers which has been set aside for recreation and conservation. Hire a mountain bike and explore some of its trails or serious trampers can set out on two to three day expedition to local huts.

Or simply renew your spirit with some gentle walks around Methven.

Whatever your persuasion, Methven has something to suit.

Unspoilt and unsullied, Methven’s welcome is as genuine as its people.

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WEST COAST

Switch off.

Chill Out. Wind down.

By CHRIS BIRT

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The lake and surrounding rivers and streams offer some of the finest brown trout fishing in the South Island.

And if you’re intent on doing so, there’s no better place in the world to achieve this than on the West Coast of the Southern Alps.

In today’s high-pressure, technology-driven and increasingly demanding world, work-life balance is the latest catch-cry.

But for many city-dwellers - think those who spend their lives amid the concrete jungles that are Auckland, Sydney, New York, Tokyo or London - there is a new awareness that taking a break requires getting right away. No mobile phones ringing incessantly, no text messages arriving by the minute and no e-mailed demands from colleagues wanting immediate attention.

Achieving a real break - the kind Kiwi kids enjoyed decades ago when they were shunted from city to farm to stay with uncles, aunts and cousins - simply ain’t easy. But for sanity’s sake, it’s now a necessity. Humans are not machines, although the 21st century world often takes the view that they should be.

Real refuges are hard to find. There are plenty of imitations, but precious few places that can rightfully claim such a title remaining on this planet.

The thin strip of blue and green that runs down the western side of the South Island is one such place. Many of those who populate its small towns and settlements have sought refuge there - for reasons often known only to themselves - but equally, those who want to escape the rigours of city life are finding peace and quiet in this truly outstanding natural haven.

Unlike most parts of the country the original Maori voyagers called Aotearoa - the Land of the Long White Cloud - the West Coast is not criss-crossed with highways and byways. There are but a few entry points, from the north, from the south and from the east. That, in itself, adds to the uniqueness and appeal of ‘The Coast’.

One of the best ways of getting to the West Coast of the Southern Alps is by train. The TranzAlpine, as it is known, is undoubtedly one of the great train journeys of the world, particularly among those which operate in an alpine environment.

Few who join this rail expedition in Christchurch - the TranzAlpine leaves that station at 8.15am, arriving at its final

destination, Greymouth, four and a half hours later - are ever likely to tire of doing so.

This rail journey is not only an interesting, spectacular expedition in its own right, but it also provides an alternative to navigating the same route by car, and missing so many of those special places and spectacular vistas, as is the lot of any driver.

Sitting back in comfort, with the vast grandness of the golds and browns of the Canterbury Plains and then the deep rich greens and vivid whites of the Southern Alps beats the need to fix one’s gaze on kilometres of winding tarseal hands down.

One of the major stops for the TranzRail is the small settlement of Moana, three and a half hours into the journey. Having passed the hugely-impressive Otira viaduct, a 440-metre four-span concrete structure that carries traffic down State Highway 73, Moana is found two stations to the west. Situated at the northern end of Lake Brunner, this is the perfect place from which to launch into an enforced bout of rest and recreation. Nearby is the small township of Brunner, which was founded and grew rapidly on the back of coal mining. The scene of a major disaster in 1896, when an explosion killed sixty five miners, Brunner oozes relics of that by-gone - but not forgotten - era.

The Lake Brunner area is, first and foremost these days, a holiday destination. It’s one of the fastest-growing vacation venues on the West Coast. But of course, the pace of life there is anything but ‘fast’, by big city standards at least.

Moana and Brunner offer a range of accommodation to suit all tastes and budgets, with facilities that meet all the needs of anyone whose primary objective is to escape the hurly-burly and take some time out to replenish their spirits and their soul.

Lake Brunner itself is a magical spot, surrounded by rainforest and with birdlife that is both abundant and, often, quite rare. Such scenes are unlikeky to be replicated in Queen Street, Auckland, or Times Square in New York!

Both the lake and the streams and rivers that feed crisp, clear water into it from the mountains are host to healthy populations of brown trout. Some of the finest fly fishing, trolling and spinning in the South Island is on offer there. Fishing guides with intimate knowledge of where to go, and when, are available to take all the

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hard work out of landing one of the finest specimens known to mankind.

Walking is a favoured activity for many of those who visit Lake Brunner, with impressive wetlands and rainforest eco-systems providing great venues of those who want to hit the trail, be it for ten minutes or six hours. Doing a short walk, or a longer hike, certainly continues the de-stressing process that by now will have clearly begun.

Lake Brunner is the perfect jumping off point for a journey south, to the glacier country and on to Haast and the river that in many minds signals the final boundary of the West Coast.

There’s a whole range of historic towns and settlements en route to the neighbouring glaciers of Franz Josef and Fox and remembering that a holiday break should be just that, the message is that this part of the journey should not be rushed. Too often, those who visit the West Coast depart expressing the view that they should have made haste more slowly.

Franz Josef and Fox glaciers are iconic attractions on The Coast and it would be unthinkable not to take in the glorious vistas and adventurous ice walks offered by either, or both.

Franz Josef township is the base for a number of tourism operations, among them one which offers expeditions into the inner sanctuary of one of the world’s rarest Kiwis – the birds, not the people!

The Okarito kiwi sanctuary, deep in the rainforest on the banks of Lake Mapourika, is a stronghold for the rowi, a species which in 2003 was identified as being distinct from the more copious brown kiwi. With a current population of just 375 mature birds, rowi is recognised now as one of New Zealand’s most threatened native species - nationally critical to give it’s the correct designation.

Luxury Retreat Package Includes: • Luxury accommodation for two people.

• A bottle of sparkling wine and canape platter on arrival.

• Five-course degustation menu for two people during one night of your stay.

• Cooked breakfast for two each morning.

NZD

$549 Per night, based on a two night stay*

To book this special package visit: www.tewaonui.co.nz/luxuryretreat Or call 0800 NZ OWNED (69 69 63)

Close to nature...

Far from ordinary.

*For full terms and conditions see our website... www.te waonui.co.nz

TW_OnBoard Ad_Half Horiz_Dec13.indd 1

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An exclusive luxury hotel experience in spectacular Franz Josef Glacier.

A haven from the city rush, Te Waonui Forest Retreat is truly a place to relax and refresh. Indulge your senses at the Hahana Day Spa, located within the 5 star Qualmark rated Retreat.

18/10/2013 12:08:21 p.m.

west coast

Glacier Country Kayaks enters into the inner sanctum of rowi, taking visitors on three-hour paddles across Lake Mapourika and into a small stream that runs into Echo Bay. While rowi are, during daylight hours, not seen there, the company’s knowledgeable guides are able to tell of the work the Department of Conservation and others are doing to ensure that this endangered species does not disappear into oblivion, as so many others have before it.

For novices, the morning kayak trip across the lake is to be recommended. While this six kilometre long lake is quite sheltered, the early departure usually provides mirror-like conditions, spectacular silhouettes of the rainforest as the sun streams in from the east. The paddle back across the lake leaves lasting impressions on everyone, providing views of the snowcapped alps that tower above this part of The Coast.

Eighty kilometres south of Fox glacier is another one of this region’s iconic locations, Lake Moeraki, and the multitude of birdlife and wildlife that make one of the world’s special places their home.

It’s also where former Forest and Bird Society conservation director Dr Gerry McSweeney and his wife Anne Saunders, a teacher, established their first Wilderness Lodge. In 1990, this tourism facility opened, with its origins being an old construction camp. It was from here that workmen set off in the 1960s as they sought to create what is now the Haast highway, New Zealand’s last major road construction project.

The forests, mountains, rivers and wildlife around Lake Moeraki were protected in 1991 within the South West New Zealand Te Wahipounamu World Heritage site, an initiative spearheaded by the Forest and Bird Society - New Zealand’s

walk the

treetops

freephone: 0508 TREETOPS phone: 03 755 5052 email: info@treetopsnz.com

www.treetopsnz.com 12 MINUTES SOUTH OF HOKITIKA, WEST COAST, SOUTH ISLAND, NEW ZEALAND

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fox glacier:

Feel the magic.

FREEPHONE

0800 111 600 witHiN Nz

www.foxguides.co.nz

largest conservation organisation by a country mile.

This world heritage site covers 2.7 million hectares - more than ten per cent of New Zealand’s total land area - and in the years since it was granted this rare international ranking successive Governments have spent millions of dollars building a network of walks and visitor centres so that those coming into the area can experience the delights of the Lake Moeraki and Haast area.

Like so much of the West Coast, Lake Moeraki provides its own magic. Kayaking to the 2000 year old giant matai, toasting marshmellows on an open fire on a small beach, and walking the sea coast to the colonies of penguins, Hector’s dolphins, elephant seals and fur seals are …. Really there’s no words that can adequately describe the rejuvenation and restoration that comes from such experiences.

Once again, it is critical to the West Coast experience that Lake Moeraki and Haast, 30 minutes’ drive to the south, are viewed as a destination, not as part of a whistlestop blast down the coastal highway. The locations themselves, free of the intrusions of human habitation - no past history of logging, little agriculture, no mountains of rubbish, and very few other people, demand a stay of three, four or five days. There is, simply no hope of sampling the best of the very best nature has provided otherwise.

And any visit to Haast would be unimaginable without stopping in at the Curly Tree Whitebait café by the Waita River off State Highway 6. It’s been a great fishing season for the tiny translucent wriggling creatures that make their way into the West Coasts each spring and at this world-famous café, whitebait fritters - patties to some nationalities - will be in abundant supply over the summer.

Whitebait forms a major part of Haast’s economy, but that is not all there is to be seen or experienced at this southern-most outpost of the West Coast. A few days here - or more if time and good planning permits - is highly recommended.

And let’s not ignore the potential for hundreds of digital reminders of special adventures and experiences in this very special part of the West Coast of the Southern Alps. Once back at the coal face and settled back into daily routine, we will, after all, need them to remember a time when life was so simple, so relaxed and so thoroughly enjoyable.

west coast

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

Ride the steam train, pan for gold and watch the holographic show.

Visit our recently opened interactiVe dispatch foundry Rutherglen Road, Paroa (10km South of Greymouth).

Open 7 days 8.30am - 5.00pm. Phone 03 762 6634 shantytown.co.nz

BARRYTOWN KNIFEMAKING

Make your own unique hand forged knife from a red hot piece of steel!!

You’ll amaze yourself.

A highly entertaining and enjoyable day, with a wonderful keepsake to take home! no problem travelling through customs with your knife

Bookings Essential 2662 Coast Road, Barrytown, Westland P: 0800 A KNIFE E: rob.steve@xtra.co.nz

www.barrytownknifemaking.com

Lake Matheson, recently named one of the world’s most beautiful lakes.

• One of N.Z.’s most scenic icons - a photographer’s paradise!

• Award winning cafe with unsurpassed mountain views • Contemporary New Zealand Gift Shop specialising in N.Z. made products • Don’t miss the opportunity to walk, shop & dine at this magnificent location Lake Matheson Rd Fox GLacieR, Ph: 03 7510 878 www.LakeMatheson.coM

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QUEENSTOWN

All EqUIPmENt PROvIDED A RANGE OF tRIPS AvAIlAblE HElI HIkE OPtIONS The magnificent Franz Josef Glacier is widely regarded as the gem of New Zealand’s West Coast Glaciers. Join us and share the experience of a lifetime. We give you the opportunity to explore the most spectacular glacier environment available to the general public, offering a range of glacier hiking tours to suit all levels of fitness and ability.

FREEPHONE 0800 GUIDES www.franzjosefglacier.com A true NZ experience from…

imagine yourself here and your cares a million miles away GLACIER HOT POOLS

The Glacier Hot Pools are six hours drive from Christchurch.

Located at Franz Josef Glacier, with 3 invitingly warm public pools, 3 secluded private pools, and onsite massage all nestled amidst the rugged West Coast rainforest.

Franz Josef Glacier | West Coast | Freephone: 0800 044 044 | www.glacierhotpools.co.nz A true NZ experience from‌

wanaka

Get outdoors at Lake Wanaka Drift Fishing fish under water

WANAKA

New Zealand is a country filled with adventure. In fact, it’s something the place is famous for. And the Wanaka region is New Zealand’s premier outdoor adventure area.

Located only an hour or so from Queenstown, Lake Wanaka is part of the Southern Lakes and one of the most diverse and beautiful regions in New Zealand.

From soaring mountains to a wild and dramatic coastline, golden hill country to crystal alpine lakes, there is a bit of everything here. And, for the adrenaline junkies, this is a little slice of heaven.

With world class canyons on the doorstep, emerald pools and incredible sculpted rock passages all set in deep rainforest, the canyons in the region are made for exploring, and Deep Canyon offer adventures like no other!

Get in touch with a special natural world; the raw power of strong waterfalls, the tranquillity of deep, forested pools, glowing green moss droplets, you will be immersed in a world you never knew existed.

Plunge down water polished chutes and abseil down waterfalls. Jump off cliffs, climb, swim and float through an amazing world of water. A challenge you just can’t miss!

Want more? Check out Makarora Tourist Centre for some joy flights over Mt Aspiring, Mt Cook, and Milford Sound or take on the Siberia Experience - a flight, walk, jet-boat combo! Take a 25 minute flight into the Siberia Valley, cross a mountain stream; walk through native beech forest before being picked up at Kerin Forks in the Wilkin Valley by the jet-boat.

Or, check out heli-skiing, hiking, hunting, fishing, tramping – the natural landscape is yours to enjoy!

THINGS TO DO Take a short walk A visit to Lake Wanaka wouldn’t be complete without getting out and going for at least one short walk - but why stop there. With over 750km of tracks in the area you will be spoilt for choice. The easiest option however is to start in town and head around the lake in either direction for as long as you want.

Take a longer walk For the more adventurous try a day walk. Rob Roy Glacier, Roys Peak and Diamond Lake to the top of Rocky Mountain are some of the favourites. But for something different try the Fern Burn Track and the Blue Pools Link Track.

Relax at the lakefront Organise a lovely picnic of fresh local produce, grab a homemade gelato ice cream or fish and chips and then head to the lakefront to relax and watch the world go by.

Visit Puzzling World Unique and quirky, weird and wonderful, Wanaka has some great attractions to have some fun in. Puzzling World is a must for all ages but Transport & Toy Museum, Warbirds and Wheels, BaseCamp Wanaka and Have a Shot are also worth a visit.

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QUEENSTOWN

Soak up the summer in Queenstown

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QUEENSTOWN

Welcome to Queenstown, the adventure playground of New Zealand. The region adrenaline junkies will travel too from across the globe. Water babies feel as at home here as the land lovers. Flight fanatics will be in their element high above the ground and for those who like to free fall through their days; well you can free fall in Queenstown – right out of a plane, off a bridge, or a cliff. The list of things to do here goes on and on and on! So what are you waiting for? Come soak up the summer…

Queenstown’s pristine lakes and mountains, long sunny days, laidback outdoor lifestyle and cosmopolitan buzz have made it a favourite summer holiday destination for both Kiwis and international travelers.

The four-season resort rates internationally as one of the world’s top holiday spots and it’s no exaggeration to say you can experience more here in a day than most do in a lifetime.

As bucket lists go, there’s really no limit to how many boxes you can tick thanks to an endless supply of world-renowned adventures ranging from skydiving, bungy jumping, jet boating, and paragliding to scenic flights, golf, horse trekking, and wine tours.

And with the mid-summer sun rising at 5am and setting as late as 10pm and balmy temperatures of up to 30°C, there’s plenty

of time to get out and enjoy Queenstown’s natural adventure playground.

During the day the lakes and rivers are a focal point for people relaxing, picnicking and enjoying water sports while in the evenings there’s a vibrant al fresco dining and social scene. Scenic cruises are a popular pastime and a great way to see things from a different perspective. Trips run regularly across Lake Wakatipu to Mt Nicholas, Walter Peak Station or down the Frankton Arm or you can explore the lake’s hidden gems by kayak or stand-up paddle board.

Summer is also peak season for bike enthusiasts and over the past couple of years Queenstown has undergone a quiet revolution to become an international cycling destination. New to the mix this year is a bike resort in Gibbston valley with 30km of

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QUEENSTOWN

Finz is the place to enjoy superb seafood and NZ’s finest meat produce in a warm and casual bistro style atmosphere, with excellent service and spectacular views. Enjoy casual relaxed waterfront dining whilst treating yourself to a seafood platter, a hearty steak or enjoy classic Kiwi fish and chips.

For reservations telephone +64 3 442 7405 or email: eat@finzdownunder.co.nz Open 7 days from 5 pm until late

Ground Floor, Steamer Wharf Beach Street, Queenstown P: +64 3 442 7405 E: eat@finzdownunder.co.nz

www.finzdownunder.co.nz

single tracks over stunning high country terrain for beginners to advanced bikers.

The Queenstown Trail provides 110km network of trails which link the popular visitor spots of Queenstown Bay, Frankton, Lake Hayes, Arrowtown, and Gibbston ‘valley of vines’. Classed as a New Zealand Great Ride, the trail provides easy access to iconic Queenstown experiences including bungy jumping, jet boating and wine tasting.

If you prefer getting around on your own two feet, summer is also high season for hiking. There’s plenty of choice around the region, from leisurely lakeside strolls to exhilarating heli-hiking tours and multi-day walks including the Routeburn Track, one of New Zealand’s Great Walks.

For more relaxed pursuits try testing your skills on one of the region’s world-class golf courses, cast your line for a spot of fishing at one of the lakes or mountain rivers, sample award-winning Central Otago wine or enjoy some ‘me’ time at one of Queenstown’s day spas.

When it comes to sampling the local cuisine, dining alfresco in the sunshine is the ideal way to do it and you’ll find restaurants literally everywhere, many with outdoor areas.

Along with nearby Arrowtown, Queenstown is home to more than 150 eateries to suit every palate, from the discerning connoisseur to a group looking for a fun, relaxed meal.

In downtown Queenstown, nightlife is busy, vibrant and eclectic. Around one corner there are stylish bars and sophisticated clubs, while around the next you’ll find Kiwi pubs and late night hot spots.

In late December the Queenstown region moves into holiday mode and visitors start arriving for the festive fun. The Christmas-New Year period is buzzing with holidaymakers out enjoying sunshine, BBQs and great events. Downtown Queenstown brings in the New Year with a spectacular lakeside fireworks display, live music and street party which kicks off an action-packed summer events calendar including the popular two-day festival Rhythm and Alps new to the Cardrona Valley, 40 minutes from Queenstown.

The summer celebration continues throughout January with Summerdaze, a monthlong festival with a rich variety of cultural and social events including outdoor theatre and lakeside concerts. Local wineries also become popular concert venues for top Kiwi and

C O M E

Gentle activity trip for all ages, water confidence NOT necessary Dramatic scenery & historic drive into Skippers Canyon. Fully qualified guides/all safety equipment provided

1/2 price photo pack on memory stick normally $39 when you refer to this ad.

T O

C O W B O Y S

EVERYDAY FROM 3PM-8PM FREE BAR SNACKS

FREE Pool and Shuffle Board OR Ride the bull - the staff will buck you gently OR Pizza Night – every Wednesday from 8pm-12am OR Sunday Karaoke from 9pm-1am with FREE spicy Chicken Wings from 8pm-12am OR just relax and enjoy a night out at Cowboys!!

E: info@familyadventures.co.nz

www.familyadventures.co.nz 108

Open 3pm – 4am Mon-Sun 7-8 Searle Lane, Queenstown, P: (03) 409 2978 E: cowboyqueenstown@gmail.com

QUEENSTOWN

ROUTEBURN & MILFORD TRACK DAY WALKS WITH ULTIMATE HIKES Spend a day on New Zealand’s famous Milford or Routeburn tracks and leave the organising to us! Enjoy the breathtaking scenery, of our stunning National Parks and learn about the unique wildlife, landscape, and history of the area.

Day walks depart from Queenstown or Te Anau and include transport, scrumptious lunch, informative guides and complimentary use of daypacks, raincoats, and sunscreen.

Multi day guided walks are also available on these iconic tracks.

Ultimate Hikes Centre The Station Building, Duke St Entrance, Queenstown P: 03 450 1940 E: info@ultimatehikes.co.nz

Kiwi Country Cnr of Town Centre & Miro St, Te Anau

FREECALL: 0800 659 255

www.ultimatehikes.co.nz

Queenstown’s most memorable dining experience A pioneering landmark from the 1860s, Gantleys is a charming stone building set on two acres of landscaped gardens with stunning mountain scenery.

Gantleys offers contemporary New Zealand cuisine using fresh, regional produce and has New Zealand’s most Awarded Wine list. Gantleys is certainly worth a visit. Just 10 minutes from Queenstown.

“ Dining at Gantleys was one of the highlights of my trip to Queenstown. Along with the wonderful service, stunning gardens and the gorgeous wines (and there were certainly plenty to choose from), the food was second to none. Piping hot, cooked to perfection and cutting through my steak, it may as well have been butter. If you’re heading to the region, I encourage you to pop into this little gem of Queenstown – you won’t be disappointed and you’ll most likely find it’ll be your highlight too.”

Bettina Maniatis, Editor, Onboard Magazine

172 Arthurs Point Road, Arthurs Point, Queenstown

|

03 442 8999

|

www.gantleys.co.nz

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QUEENSTOWN

Get close to nature An awe inspiring journey into the Te Wai Pounamu World Heritage Area.

BOOK NOW! Visit our website or call 0800 327 853.

Queenstown, New Zealand

www.dartriver.co.nz

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international acts and the season rounds off with the prestigious New Zealand Golf Open at The Hills and Millbrook Resort.

If you’re keen to explore the region, wine tours are a great way to get an insight into the local epicurean culture and taste some world renowned wines. Central Otago is home to 200 vineyards and top growing conditions mean the region has more than its fair share of award-winning wines, particularly Pinot Noir.

A short 20-minute drive from Queenstown is the beautiful old goldmining village of Arrowtown; trip worth its weight in gold.

In 1862 the cry of “gold” brought thousands of miners to the Arrow River, one of the world’s richest sources of alluvial gold. Its quaint tree-lined streets are a seamless blend of past and present, featuring old miners’ cottages, a restored Chinese Village and the fascinating Lakes District Museum.

Summer is an ideal time to visit Arrowtown as it captures the sun all day long meaning the myriad of cafes, restaurants, traditional pubs and boutique bars are the perfect spot for al fresco dining. Along with the cobbled main street, fine clothing stores, art studios and galleries, and discerning accommodation, the town creates an ambience that captivates visitors and residents alike.

A true slice of paradise sits a spectacular 45-minute drive west of Queenstown at the end of Lake Wakatipu. Bordered by the South West New Zealand World Heritage Area, Glenorchy is the gateway to some of New Zealand’s most epic scenery and its towering mountains have provided inspirational backdrops in many films.

The drive from Queenstown to Glenorchy offers breathtaking views, hanging valleys, glaciers, islands and sheer mountains. Once there, Glenorchy’s natural environment makes it a hub for adventures like wilderness jet boating, horse riding, fishing, and kayaking and it is also the jump-off point for Great Walks such as the Milford, Routeburn, Caples and Greenstone tracks.

At the southernmost end of Lake Wakatipu is the pretty township of Kingston. The 47km lakeside drive from Queenstown is a stunning, winding road that follows Lake

QUEENSTOWN

Wakatipu and The Remarkables mountain range toward Te Anau. Kingston’s lakeside setting, relaxed vibe and activities like walking tracks, boating and fishing, golf and bowling, make it a popular holiday destination for families.

Whether you choose to stay within walking distance of Queenstown or venture further out, you’ll find accommodation from budget to five-star, friendly hosts and spectacular views.

For more information: visit www.queenstownNZ.co.nz for more inspiration.

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SOUTHERN DISCOVERIES

NEW - Queenstown Scenic Cruise & Mt. NIC

Be one of the first to cruise on Spirit of Queenstown and experience Mt. Nic (Mt. Nicholas High Country Farm) ‘Queenstown’s latest tourist attraction!’

Queenstown Scenic Cruise - Go Further, See More! 1hr 45mins Sit back, relax and enjoy the spectacular scenery of the Remarkables, Cecil Peak and Mt. Earnslaw from the comfort of our new, luxury cruise boat ‘Spirit of Queenstown’. Take panoramic photos from our open top deck or enjoy a coffee and lunch from our onboard cafe. Our cruise takes you further and shows you more of this stunning landscape, as we cruise you over to Mt. NIC with an entertaining commentary provided by our local skipper.

Mt. NIC Woolshed Experience Visit New Zealand’s historic, family run, fully operational High Country Station. Follow the journey from merino sheep to famous Icebreaker clothing in an interactive, fun environment. Explore this traditional, isolated working high country station and learn 112

how the locals live. Try skimming stones, horseshoe throwing or compete with your friends at virtual shearing! Before returning back to Queenstown enjoy the peace and tranquility of this stunning area, as you take in panoramic views of Mt Earnslaw and the Remarkables mountain range.

Mt. NIC 4WD Safari Journey deep into the heart of New Zealand’s High Country on our 4WD Safari tour. Experience river crossings, spectacular scenery, visit authentic musterers huts and travel back on the roads into an area rarely seen by visitors and locals. You will be hosted by our local, knowledgeable guides, while you follow the footsteps of the pioneering people of Southland. Includes Woolshed Experience and a delicious lunch of local produce.

Mt. NIC High Country Walks Get back to nature with a gentle guided walk through the isolated foothills of Mt Nicholas Station - a unique opportunity to explore this remote location. Hear about the flora, fauna and history of the area from your friendly local guide. Towering mountains, beautiful lakes, rivers, forest and views that will just simply take your breath away. Includes Woolshed Experience. Picnic lunches available to pre-order.

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ARI 4WD SAF

HIGH COUNTRY WALKS

Discover New Zealand’s ultimate high country adventure.

From 4WD Safari Tours to High Country Walks and an authentic Woolshed Experience, there’s something for everyone at Mt. NIC.

HED WOOLSIE NCE R E P X E

SCENIC C

RUISE

FIORDLAND

NZ’s best kept secret

A distinctively quality experience in the heart of Fiordland. On the shore of Lake Te Anau, 112 rooms with spectacular lake and mountain views or a garden setting.

Experience fine cuisine in our renowned MacKinnon Room Restaurant, sunsets in The Explorer Bar and Lakefront Terrace and relax in our outdoor heated swimming pool, spa and sauna complex. Moments to the many attractions, Distinction Te Anau Hotel and Villas provides the perfect base for your Fiordland experience.

Don’t delay, book today.

64 Lakefront Terrace, Te Anau, Ph: 0800 223 687 reservations@distinctionteanau.co.nz www.distinctionteanau.co.nz

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The Fiordland region pockets some of the country’s most rugged, remote, and dramatic natural attractions.

Indented seascapes carved by glaciers over 100,000 years old are what characterises Fiordland.

Some say it’s one of New Zealand’s best-kept secrets.

The landscape is one where waterfalls cascade into black fiords and ancient rainforest flanks the mountainside.

Granite peaks abound and the lakes still shimmer. It’s a nature lover’s paradise.

And hikers are in their element with three of New Zealand’s ‘great walks’, the Milford, Kepler and Routeburn Tracks, all at hand.

Milford Track is arguably New Zealand’s most famous walk. Starting in Te Anau, it takes you over 53km through the most breath-taking scenery; mountains, lakes and enormous valleys right up to the Sutherland Falls, the tallest waterfall in New Zealand.

Some of the fiords can be explored by kayak too but if you’d like to see the less accessible fiords, tours are the best way to go.

Explore historic

Fiordland

Preservation,Chalky & Dusky Sounds 2013 tours

Historic Site Visits • Puysegur Point Lighthouse • Cook’s Astronomer Point

• Tawera Silver Mine • Richard Henry’s Pigeon Island

3 Nights from $1495pp Includes transfers between boat and Te Anau

Activities:

• Catch your dinner • Diving

• Fishing • Kayaking

Call for departure dates

Freephone 0508 888 656 Email info@fiordlandexpeditions.co.nz Web www.fiordlandexpeditions.co.nz

fiordlandexpeditions.co.nz

KiwiRail’s new Scenic carriages win design award Scenic’s new AK passenger carriages have taken a Silver Award in the Best Product Design in the 2013 New Zealand Design Awards run by the Designers Institute of New Zealand.

“The award is the culmination of a four year partnership between Barnacle Design and KiwiRail Scenic and confirms the outstanding quality of our new AK passenger cars,” KiwiRail’s General Manager, Passenger, Deborah Hume said. “We’ve positioned Scenic at the top end of the travel and conference market and this award underscores that. It shows that our product is spot on in terms of both comfort and styling. We owe a huge vote of thanks to Barnacle Design, the KiwiRail engineering design team and supporting engineering contractors. They’ve done a superb job.”

KiwiRail Scenic was up against some pretty tough competition, including products from companies with an international 116

reputation for design. The new AK passenger carriages were amongst nine finalists in the spatial design category and 11 in the product category out of a total of 777 entries.

Barnacle Design’s Creative Director Keith Strode-Penny said KiwiRail did remarkably well to make the finals of both the spatial design and the product category with such a complex product as a rail passenger car.

“Compared with the other entries KiwiRail’s was a fundamentally more complex product. It also wasn’t just the work of a design team. The design involved engineers concerned with the mechanical functions of the passenger car. These hard engineering elements then had to be incorporated into a functional but elegant design. That’s no easy achievement. It’s also a blend of engineering design that is outside the usual range of entries the judges are familiar with. That makes getting the Silver Award even more amazing as we really were breaking new ground,” Mr StrodePenny said.

kiwirail updates

KiwiRail Scenic Journey’s gift voucher The gift they’ll remember for years to come If you‘re looking for a special and memorable gift for Christmas, a KiwiRail Scenic Journey Gift Voucher is the perfect solution. You can choose a specific journey, or let them decide with a voucher.

Gift a Journey Choose one of the spectacular scenic journeys for a meaningful gift. Just select your service, and then the start and finish locations.

Gift a Voucher If you‘d rather let them choose, you can give a voucher with a value of your choice. Vouchers can be used on any KiwiRail Scenic Journey long distance service.

Gift Vouchers are valid for 12 months, and your recipient can change the date of their travel as often as they need to within that period, so you know they’ll be able to use it when it suits them best. Full terms and conditions can be found on the KiwiRail Scenic Journeys website at www. kiwirailscenic.co.nz How will I receive it?

We can email your gift to you, or directly to the recipient. The email has your link to a personalised online gift voucher, which if you prefer, can be printed out to give in person.

Once they have the gift voucher, they can simply book their trip online or by phone at their leisure.

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motive power A variety of different locomotives will be the driving force for your Scenic journey, depending on a number of factors including size of the train and locomotive availability.

The EF electric locomotives are only used on the Northern Explorer, where the North Island Main Trunk line is electrified.

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Two spectacular journeys, one simple booking.

The Throughfare is truly the way to see New Zealand at its best. As the Interislander departs you’ll get a perspective of Wellington not often seen. Before too long you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the pristine Marlborough Sounds.

Then climb aboard the new Coastal Pacific carriages* with panorama windows that frame some of New Zealand’s most striking views of the Kaikoura mountains and the rugged Pacific Ocean coastline as you meander down to Christchurch.

Book your Throughfare at

TRS 1750

kiwirailscenic.co.nz

* carriage type may vary

your views We see plenty of great pictures and stories of your KiwiRail Scenic train journeys in letters, blogs and photo sharing sites.

Just send us your stories, pictures or both and for every one we choose to feature, we’ll credit you with $50 worth of KiwiRail Scenic travel. What’s more, we are giving away a star prize for the best in 2013; a further travel prize to the tune of $250.

“Stranded in Arthur Pass, but still having fun!”

Sandy Oldham As long as you are having fun!

“Late winter with spring in the air is a great time on the TranzAlpine.

Love this view approaching tiny Cass. The snowy Spike is on right.

Mt Evans on left.” Roy Sinclair.

Thanks Roy, great pic and we love the view too!

drop us a line & WIN Just email your pictures and stories to ournewzealand@tranzscenic.co.nz and you might see your name in print and be in to WIN $250 of travel.

All submissions are subject to agreement to the following terms & conditions.

1) Tranz Scenic may determine, at its sole discretion, whether it will use any contributions (including written materials, photos etc) submitted to it. This decision is final and no correspondence will be entered into.

2) By submitting contributions to Tranz Scenic, the contributor(s): (a) undertake to Tranz Scenic that the contributions are not unlawful; and (b) agree to be photographed by Tranz Scenic if requested by Tranz Scenic, such photograph(s) to be used as part of the contributions; and (c) agree to allow Tranz Scenic and its related entities to use the

contributions for such purposes and in such manner as it thinks fit, without notice to the contributor(s).

3) Tranz Scenic may edit contributions before using them.

4) If Tranz Scenic, at its sole discretion, offers any prizes for contributions made to it, such prizes are not transferrable and non-monetary prizes are not redeemable for cash.

5) No responsibility is accepted by Tranz Scenic for late, lost, or misdirected mail or prizes.

6) Tranz Scenic bears no responsibility for the content of any contributions used by Tranz Scenic.

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Experience like aa local –– wherever your travels take you.

Experience ExperienceNew New NewZealand Zealand Zealand like like local a local wherever – wherever youryour travels travels take take you. you.

We know all the best things to do, places to stay and ways to get there.

Plus we’ll take care of your bookings.

We know know all ways to to getget there.

Plus We all the thebest bestthings thingstotodo, do,places placestotostay stayand and ways there.

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NEW PLYMOUTH i-SITE 65 StPLYMOUTH Aubyn St, New NEW i-SITEPlymouth T65(06) 759 0897 St Aubyn St, New Plymouth newplymouth@i-SITE.org T (06) 759 0897 newplymouth@i-SITE.org SOUTH TARANAKI i-SITE 55 HighTARANAKI St, Hawera SOUTH i-SITE T55(06) 278 High St,8599 Hawera southtaranaki@i-SITE.org T (06) 278 8599 southtaranaki@i-SITE.org STRATFORD i-SITE

North Island i-SITE Visitor Centres North Island i-SITE Visitor Centres NORTHLAND NORTHLAND BAY OF ISLANDS i-SITE

The Wharf, Marsden ISLANDS BAY OF i-SITE Rd, Paihia TThe (09) 402 7345 Wharf, Marsden Rd, Paihia bayofislands@i-SITE.org T (09) 402 7345 bayofislands@i-SITE.org FAR NORTH i-SITE Cnr Avenue, Kaitaia FAR Matthews NORTH i-SITE & South Street Avenue, Kaitaia Cnr Matthews T& (09) 408 9450 South Street kaitaia@i-SITE.org T (09) 408 9450 kaitaia@i-SITE.org HOKIANGA i-SITE SH12, Opononi HOKIANGA i-SITE TSH12, (09) 405 8869 Opononi hokianga@i-SITE.org T (09) 405 8869 hokianga@i-SITE.org WHANGAREI i-SITE 92 Otaika Rd,i-SITE Whangarei WHANGAREI T92(09) 438Rd, 1079 Otaika Whangarei whangarei@i-SITE.org 1079 T (09) 438 1079 whangarei@i-SITE.org

AUCKLAND AUCKLANDi-SITE – DOMESTIC TERMINAL AUCKLAND Air NZ Domestic AUCKLAND i-SITETerminal, – DOMESTIC TERMINAL Auckland Airport Terminal, Air NZ Domestic TAuckland (09) 365Airport 9928 aucklandairport@i-SITE.org T (09) 365 9928 aucklandairport@i-SITE.org AUCKLAND i-SITE – INTERNATIONAL TERMINAL Arrivals Hall, International Terminal, Auckland AUCKLAND i-SITE – INTERNATIONAL TERMINAL Airport Arrivals Hall, International Terminal, Auckland TAirport (09) 365 9925 aucklandairport@i-SITE.org T (09) 365 9925 aucklandairport@i-SITE.org AUCKLAND i-SITE – PRINCES WHARF 137 Quay St, Auckland AUCKLAND i-SITE – PRINCES WHARF T137 (09) 365St, 9914 Quay Auckland auckland@i-SITE.org T (09) 365 9914 auckland@i-SITE.org AUCKLAND i-SITE – SKYCITY Level P3, Skycity, Victoria & Federal Sts, AUCKLAND i-SITE –Cnr SKYCITY Auckland Level P3, Skycity, Cnr Victoria & Federal Sts, TAuckland (09) 365 9918 auckland@i-SITE.org T (09) 365 9918 auckland@i-SITE.org DEVONPORT i-SITE 1DEVONPORT Queens Parade i-SITE T1 (09) 365 Parade 9906 Queens devonport@i-SITE.org T (09) 365 9906 devonport@i-SITE.org WAIHEKE ISLAND i-SITE 118 Oceanview ISLAND Road, WAIHEKE i-SITE Oneroa T118 (09) 372 1234 Road, Oneroa Oceanview waiheke@i-SITE.org T (09) 372 1234 waiheke@i-SITE.org waiheke@i-SITE. org WARKWORTH i-SITE 1WARKWORTH Baxter St, Warkworth i-SITE T1 (09) 425 Baxter St,9081 Warkworth warkworth@i-SITE.org T (09) 425 9081 warkworth@i-SITE.org

WAIKATO/KING COUNTRY WAIKATO/KING CAMBRIDGE i-SITECOUNTRY Cnr Queen and Victoria Sts, Cambridge CAMBRIDGE i-SITE TCnr (07) 823 3456 Queen and Victoria Sts, Cambridge cambridge@i-SITE.org T (07) 823 3456 cambridge@i-SITE.org HAMILTON i-SITE Ground Floor, 149 Alexandra Street, HAMILTON i-SITE Hamilton City 149 Alexandra Street, Ground Floor, THamilton (07) 958City 5960 hamilton@i-SITE.org T (07) 958 5960 hamilton@i-SITE.org HUNTLY i-SITE 156 Great South Rd, Huntly HUNTLY i-SITE T156 (07) 828 South 6406 Rd, Huntly Great huntly@i-SITE.org T (07) 828 6406 huntly@i-SITE.org MATAMATA i-SITE 45 Broadway, Matamata MATAMATA i-SITE T45(07) 888 7260 Broadway, Matamata matamata@i-SITE.org T (07) 888 7260 matamata@i-SITE.org OTOROHANGA i-SITE 27 Turongo St,i-SITE Otorohanga OTOROHANGA T27(07) 873 8951 Turongo St, Otorohanga otorohanga@i-SITE.org T (07) 873 8951 otorohanga@i-SITE.org

Miranda St, Stratford STRATFORD i-SITE TMiranda (06) 765 St,6708 Stratford stratford@i-SITE.org T (06) 765 6708 stratford@i-SITE.org

PUTARURU i-SITE 6PUTARURU Main Street, Putaruru i-SITE T6 (07) 7284 Street, Putaruru Main883 putaruru@i-SITE.org T (07) 883 7284 putaruru@i-SITE.org TAUMARUNUI i-SITE

MANAWATU/WANGANUI MANAWATU/WANGANUI PALMERSTON NORTH i-SITE The Square, Palmerston North PALMERSTON NORTH i-SITE TThe (06) 350 1922 Square, Palmerston North palmerstonnorth@i-SITE.org T (06) 350 1922 palmerstonnorth@i-SITE.org TARARUA i-SITE

Railway Stn, Hakiaha i-SITE St, TAUMARUNUI Taumarunui Railway Stn, Hakiaha St, TTaumarunui (07) 895 7494 taumarunui@i-SITE.org T (07) 895 7494 taumarunui@i-SITE.org TE AROHA i-SITE

42 Vogel St, Woodville TARARUA i-SITE T42(06) 376St, 0217 Vogel Woodville tararua@i-SITE.org T (06) 376 0217 tararua@i-SITE.org WANGANUI i-SITE

102 Whitaker St, Te Aroha TE AROHA i-SITE T102 (07) 884 8052 Whitaker St, Te Aroha tearoha@i-SITE.org T (07) 884 8052 tearoha@i-SITE.org TE AWAMUTU i-SITE

31 Taupo Quay St, Wanganui i-SITE WANGANUI T31(06) 349Quay 0508St, Wanganui Taupo wanganui@i-SITE.org T (06) 349 0508 wanganui@i-SITE.org

1TEGorst Ave, Te Awamutu AWAMUTU i-SITE T1 (07) 871 3259 Gorst Ave, Te Awamutu teawamutu@i-SITE.org T (07) 871 3259 teawamutu@i-SITE.org TE KUITI i-SITE

SH1, TIRAUTirau i-SITE TSH1, (07)Tirau 883 1202 tirau@i-SITE.org T (07) 883 1202 tirau@i-SITE.org TOKOROA i-SITE

21 Waitomo Caves Rd, Waitomo WAITOMO i-SITE T21(07) 878 7640 Waitomo Village Road, Caves Rd, Waitomo waitomo@i-SITE.org TWaitomo (07) 878 7640 T (07) 878 7640 waitomo@i-SITE.org waitomo@i-SITE.org

COROMANDEL COROMANDEL THAMES i-SITE COROMANDEL

206 Pollen St, Thames THAMES i-SITE THAMES i-SITE T206 (07)Pollen 868 7284 St, Thames 206 Pollen St, Thames thames@i-SITE.org T (07) 868 7284 T (07) 868 7284 thames@i-SITE.org WHANGAMATA i-SITE thames@i-SITE.org 616 Port Rd, Whangamata WHANGAMATA i-SITE T616 (07) 865 8340 Port Rd, Whangamata WHITIANGA i-SITE whangamata@i-SITE.org T 865St, 8340 66(07) Albert Whitianga whangamata@i-SITE.org T (07) 866 5555 WHITIANGA i-SITE whitianga@i-SITE.org 66 Albert St,i-SITE Whitianga WHITIANGA T66(07) 866St, 5555 Albert Whitianga BAY OF866 PLENTY whitianga@i-SITE.org T (07) 5555 whitianga@i-SITE.org OPOTIKI i-SITE 70 Bridge St, Opotiki BAY OF PLENTY TBAY (07)OF 315 3031 PLENTY OPOTIKI i-SITE opotiki@i-SITE.org 70 Bridge St, Opotiki OPOTIKI i-SITE TAURANGA i-SITE T70(07) 315 St, 3031 Bridge Opotiki 95 Willow Tauranga opotiki@i-SITE.org T (07) 315St, 3031 Topotiki@i-SITE.org (07) 578 8103 TAURANGA i-SITE tauranga@i-SITE.org 95 Willow St, Tauranga TAURANGA i-SITE WHAKATANE i-SITE T95(07) 578 St, 8103 Willow Tauranga Cnr Quay & Kakaharoa Drive tauranga@i-SITE.org T (07) 578St8103 Whakatane tauranga@i-SITE.org WHAKATANE i-SITE T (07) 306 2030 Cnr Quay St &i-SITE Kakaharoa Drive, WHAKATANE whakatane@i-SITE.org Whakatane Cnr Quay St & Kakaharoa Drive, TWhakatane (07) 306 2030 VOLCANIC PLATEAU whakatane@i-SITE.org T (07) 306 2030 whakatane@i-SITE.org ROTORUA i-SITE 1167 FentonPLATEAU St, Rotorua VOLCANIC TVOLCANIC (07) 348 5179 PLATEAU ROTORUA i-SITE rotorua@i-SITE.org 1167 Fenton St, Rotorua ROTORUA i-SITE RUAPEHU T1167 (07)Fenton 348i-SITE 5179 St, Rotorua 54 Clyde St,5179 Ohakune rotorua@i-SITE.org T (07) 348 Trotorua@i-SITE.org (06) 385 8427 RUAPEHU i-SITE ruapehu@i-SITE.org 54 Clyde St, Ohakune RUAPEHU i-SITE T54(06) 385St, 8427 Clyde Ohakune ruapehu@i-SITE.org T (06) 385 8427 ruapehu@i-SITE.org

18 Kitchener St, Martinborough MARTINBOROUGH i-SITE T18(06) 306 5010 Kitchener St, Martinborough martinborough@i-SITE.org T (06) 306 5010 martinborough@i-SITE.org MASTERTON i-SITE Cnr Dixon and Bruce Sts, MASTERTON i-SITE Masterton Cnr Dixon and Bruce Sts, TMasterton (06) 370 0900 masterton@i-SITE.org T (06) 370 0900 masterton@i-SITE.org OTAKI i-SITE 239 Centennial Park, SH1, Otaki OTAKI i-SITE T239 (06) 364 7620Park, SH1, Otaki Centennial otaki@i-SITE.org T (06) 364 7620 otaki@i-SITE.org PARAPARAUMU i-SITE Coastlands, Rimu Road, PARAPARAUMU i-SITE Paraparaumu Coastlands, Rimu Road, TParaparaumu (04) 298 8195 paraparaumu@i-SITE.org T (04) 298 8195 paraparaumu@i-SITE.org PORIRUA i-SITE 8PORIRUA Cobhami-SITE Court, Porirua T8 (04) 237 8088 Cobham Court, Porirua porirua@i-SITE.org T (04) 237 8088 porirua@i-SITE.org UPPER HUTT i-SITE Expressions UPPER HUTT Art i-SITE & Entertainment Expressions Art Centre 836 Fergusson Drive, Upper Hutt & Entertainment Centre T836 (04)Fergusson 527 2168Drive, Upper Hutt upperhutt@i-SITE.org T (04) 527 2168 upperhutt@i-SITE.org WELLINGTON i-SITE

Rora St, Te Kuiti TE KUITI i-SITE TRora (07)St, 878 Te8077 Kuiti tekuiti@i-SITE.org T (07) 878 8077 tekuiti@i-SITE.org TIRAU i-SITE

SH1, Tokoroa TOKOROA i-SITE TSH1, (07)Tokoroa 886 8872 tokoroa@i-SITE.org T (07) 886 8872 tokoroa@i-SITE.org WAITOMO i-SITE

HUTT CITY i-SITE The Pavilion, 25 Laings Rd, HUTT CITY i-SITE Lower Hutt 25 Laings Rd, The Pavilion, TLower (04) Hutt 560 4715 huttcity@i-SITE.org T (04) 560 4715 huttcity@i-SITE.org MARTINBOROUGH i-SITE

Civic Square,i-SITE Cnr Victoria & WELLINGTON Wakefield Sts,Cnr Wellington Civic Square, Victoria & TWakefield (04) 802 Sts, 4860Wellington wellington@i-SITE.org T (04) 802 4860 wellington@i-SITE.org TAUPO i-SITE 30 Tongariro TAUPO i-SITE St, Taupo T30(07) 376 0027 Tongariro St, Taupo taupo@i-SITE.org T (07) 376 0027 taupo@i-SITE.org TURANGI i-SITE Ngawaka Place, Turangi TURANGI i-SITE TNgawaka (07) 386Place, 8999 Turangi turangi@i-SITE.org T (07) 386 8999 turangi@i-SITE.org

EAST COAST/HAWKES BAY EAST COAST/HAWKES BAY GISBORNE i-SITE 209 Grey St, Gisborne GISBORNE i-SITE T209 (06) 868St, 6139 Grey Gisborne gisborne@i-SITE.org T (06) 868 6139 gisborne@i-SITE.org HASTINGS i-SITE Cnr Russelli-SITE & Heretaunga St East, HASTINGS Hastings Cnr Russell & Heretaunga St East, THastings (06) 873 0080 hastings@i-SITE.org T (06) 873 0080 hastings@i-SITE.org

Havelock North

HAVELOCK NORTH i-SITE Cnr Te AuteNORTH & Middle Roads, i-SITE HAVELOCK Havelock North & Middle Roads, Cnr Te Aute THavelock (06) 877North 9600 havelock@i-SITE.org T (06) 877 9600 havelocknorth@i-SITE.org havelock@i-SITE.org NAPIER i-SITE 100 Marine Parade, Napier NAPIER i-SITE T100 (06) 834 1911 Parade, Napier Marine napier@i-SITE.org T (06) 834 1911 napier@i-SITE.org WAIROA i-SITE Cnr SH2i-SITE & Queen St, Wairoa WAIROA TCnr (06) 838&7440 SH2 Queen St, Wairoa wairoa@i-SITE.org T (06) 838 7440 wairoa@i-SITE.org

Havelock North

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South Island i-SITE Visitor Centres NELSON/TASMAN

CENTRAL OTAGO/SOUTHERN LAKES

GOLDEN BAY i-SITE Willow St, Takaka T (03) 525 9136 goldenbay@i-SITE.org

ALEXANDRA i-SITE 21 Centennial Ave, Alexandra T (03) 448 9515 alexandra@i-SITE.org

MOTUEKA i-SITE 20 Wallace St, Motueka T (03) 528 6543 motueka@i-SITE.org

CROMWELL i-SITE 47 The Mall, Cromwell T (03) 445 0212 cromwell@i-SITE.org

NELSON i-SITE Millers Acre Centre, Taha o te Awa, 77 Trafalgar St, Nelson T (03) 548 2304 nelson@i-SITE.org

FIORDLAND i-SITE Lake Front Drive, Te Anau T (03) 249 8900 fiordland@i-SITE.org

MARLBOROUGH BLENHEIM i-SITE 8 Sinclair St, Blenheim T (03) 577 8080 blenheim@i-SITE.org PICTON i-SITE The Foreshore, Picton T (03) 520 3113 picton@i-SITE.org

WEST COAST

LAKE WANAKA i-SITE 100 Ardmore St, Wanaka T (03) 443 1233 lakewanaka@i-SITE.org QUEENSTOWN i-SITE Clocktower Building, cnr Camp & Shotover Sts, Queenstown T (03) 442 4100 queenstown@i-SITE.org

OTAGO/SOUTHLAND CLUTHA i-SITE 4 Clyde St, Balclutha T (03) 418 0388 balclutha@i-SITE.org DUNEDIN i-SITE 26 Princes St, Dunedin T (03) 474 3300 dunedin@i-SITE.org INVERCARGILL i-SITE Queens Park, 108 Gala St, Invercargill T (03) 211 0895 invercargill@i-SITE.org OAMARU i-SITE 1 Thames St, Oamaru T (03) 434 1656 oamaru@i-SITE.org

RANFURLY i-SITE 3 Charlemont St East, Ranfurly T (03) 444 1005 ranfurly@i-SITE.org

FRANZ JOSEF i-SITE Main Rd, SH6, Franz Josef T (03) 752 0796 franzjosef@i-SITE.org GREYMOUTH i-SITE 164 Mackay St, Greymouth T (03) 768 7080 greymouth@i-SITE.org HOKITIKA i-SITE 36 Weld St, Hokitika T (03) 755 6166 hokitika@i-SITE.org PAPAROA NATIONAL PARK i-SITE Main Rd, SH6, Punakaiki T (03) 731 1895 punakaiki@i-SITE.org

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REEFTON i-SITE 67-69 Broadway, Reefton T (03) 732 8391 reefton@i-SITE.org WESTPORT i-SITE Coal Town Museum, 123 Palmerston Street, Westport T (03) 789 6658 westport@i-SITE.org

CANTERBURY AKAROA i-SITE 120 Rue Jolie, Akaroa T (03) 304 8600 akaroa@i-SITE.org

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ASHBURTON i -SITE East St, Ashburton T (03) 308 1050 ashburton@i-SITE.org CHRISTCHURCH i-SITE Botanic Gardens, Rolleston Avenue T (03) 379 9629 christchurch@i-SITE.org CHRISTCHURCH AIRPORT i-SITE International Arrivals Hall, Christchurch Airport T (03) 353 7774 christchurchairport@i-SITE.org HURUNUI i-SITE 42 Amuri Ave West, Hanmer Springs T (03) 315 0020 hanmersprings@i-SITE.org KAIAPOI i-SITE Railway Station, 57 Charles St, Kaiapoi T 03 327 3134 kaiapoi@i-SITE.org KAIKOURA i-SITE West End, Kaikoura T (03) 319 5641 kaikoura@i-SITE.org METHVEN i-SITE 160 Main St, Methven T (03) 302 8955 methven@i-SITE.org

All i-SITEs provide information on National Parks and DOC Great Walks

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