KiwiRail Our New Zealand Issue 27 Autumn 2015

I SSU E 27 / AU T UM N 1 5

Our New Zealand

INSIDE: Awe-inspiring Mt Taranaki Get a taste of Hollywood this Autumn Buy NZ Made - Invest in NZ

At REAL Aotearoa we offer a select range of high quality, distinctive and unique pieces of art and jewellery. Each piece is sourced and created right here in New Zealand. We also provide gift-wrapping and packing, plus full domestic and international postal services.

We are open 7 days a week.

1 Grey Street, Wellington tel (04) 471 1561

62 Queen Street, Auckland tel (09) 309 7515

www.realaotearoa.co.nz

this issue

KAIKOURA DELICACIES Roadside Crayfish, Kaikoura Photo Chris Sisarich, Courtesy of Tourism New Zealand

page 67

11. AUTUMN IN NEW ZEALAND 16. NZ ACCOMMODATION

70. ENCHANTING HANMER SPRINGS 71. AKAROA’S FRENCH CONNECTION

17. BUY NZ MADE 24. SUB-TROPICAL NORTHLAND 28. VISIT THE COROMANDEL

72. CHRISTCHURCH AND CANTERBURY

Regulars 4.

Welcome Onboard

6.

kiwirail maps

9.

kiwirail updates

96. LET’S GET SOCIAL

74. THE BEAUTY OF THE WEST COAST

29. THE CITY OF SAILS AUCKLAND 34. BEAUTIFUL BAY OF PLENTY

81. WANAKA WONDER

36. NEW PLYMOUTH/TARANAKI

84. AUTUMNAL QUEENSTOWN COLOURS

39. HAPPENING HAWKE’S BAY

88. FIORDLAND WONDERS

42. EXPERIENCE THE CAPITAL

89. OUR INTERNATIONAL HOT SPOT - FIJI

52. NELSON - CENTRAL NZ

page 33 WAIKATO IS HOBBITON

this issue’s cover photo: Te Rewa Rewa Bridge Photo: Rob Tucker Venture Taranaki

59. MAGNIFICENT MARLBOROUGH

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

ADVERTISING Michelle Agnew PO Box 2173, Washdyke, Timaru P: 0274 664 384 michelle@inflightpublish.co.nz DESIGN AND PRODUCTION Penny Thompson

EDITOR Lucy Mullinger lucy@inflightpublish.co.nz

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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.

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K IWI R AI L SCENI C U PD ATES

WELCOME TO OUR New Zealand Te ¯na ¯ koutou. Nau mai ki Aotearoa.

Hello and welcome aboard this KiwiRail Scenic Journeys train service.

I would like to extend a special welcome to our international visitors.

It’s great to have you here in Aotearoa (New Zealand) and we hope that you enjoy your time here. We have unique places for you to explore, stunning landscapes to discover, delicious flavours to savour, and exciting activities and attractions to experience. We’re pleased to be able to show you some of the best New Zealand has to offer when you get on-board with KiwiRail Scenic Journeys.

It is almost that time of year again when we bid farewell to summer - and what an amazing summer it has been right across New Zealand.

for Auckland, Hamilton, Christchurch and Greymouth let you travel with us in comfort and style to visit family and friends or spend time rediscovering these cities.

The hot sunny weather and long balmy evenings meant that many of us took the chance to head to the beach house or visit friends and family. KiwiRail Scenic Journeys is proud to have helped make many of those experiences all the more enjoyable.

The Coastal Pacific continues its extended season through to May 3rd, making daily return services between Christchurch and Picton, and there is still plenty of time to experience what the splendid north-eastern coast of the South Island has to offer.

However saying farewell to summer is not the end of the Scenic Journeys experience - far from it.

There are a range of options available including travelling to Kaikoura to go whale watching or sampling the abundance of seafood, that this seasidetown has to offer, before heading back to Christchurch in time for dinner.

Any time of the year is wonderful in New Zealand and there are so many unforgettable activities and places to see.

Any time of the year is also the time to get onboard with KiwiRail Scenic Journeys.

With our fantastic range of escape packages, what better way to discover new experiences or just relax and get away for a while?

Easter is not far away and many of us will be taking time out over the holiday for a mini-break. Our great city break packages

You could also travel to Blenheim, go winetasting in Marlborough or connect with the Interislander ferries or Sounds Air flights in Picton, on your way to the capital, and experience everything the North Island has to offer on the Northern Explorer.

KiwiRail Scenic Journeys is all about creating a memorable tourism experience which includes great service and hospitality,

unique sights and a sense of novelty.

These are all crucial elements to producing a travel experience worth remembering – and something KiwiRail Scenic Journeys strives to deliver for our passengers.

Nga ¯ mihi.

Gavin Rutherford National Manager KiwiRail Scenic Journeys

KIW IR A IL S CE N IC UP D AT E S

welcome aboard Thanks for joining us and choosing to experience New Zealand with KiwiRail Scenic.

We want to make your journey as safe and comfortable as possible, so here’s some useful information for your journey.

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CAFE

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Our fully licensed café is open throughout the day with a great selection of snacks, meals and beverages to enjoy. A full menu is available in your seat pocket.

Audio commentary is available at your seat. Simply plug in your headphones and select channel 2 (English) or channel 3 (Mandarin).

A notification sound will indicate when commentary is about to commence.

Your crew will advise when viewing decks are open throughout the journey. Please follow safety guidelines and ensure children are supervised when visiting the viewing deck.

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SA F E T Y

Kids E nterta inment

TOILE TS

Your safety is our first priority.

Please read the safety card in your seat pocket, and pay close attention to instructions from your crew throughout the journey.

Kids activity packs are available to purchase from the café from April 2015. These fun zip-up packs include cards, colouring-in books, origami and other activities. These are all suitable for children aged 3-14.

Toilets are located at the end of each carriage, and an accessible toilet is located in the café carriage.

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YOUR ON-BOARD CREW

SIT BACK & RELAX

FEEDBACK

Our crew members are trained to make your journey as safe and comfortable as possible, please let them know if you require any assistance. Emergency help buttons are located in each carriage.

Now it’s time to sit back, relax, and enjoy the journey.

Thanks for choosing to travel with KiwiRail Scenic. We hope you enjoy your time on board.

If you provided an email address when booking, a post-travel survey will make its way to your inbox. Your feedback is important to us, so let us know what you think! You can also share your experiences on TripAdvisor.

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KI W I R AI L SCENI C UPDATES

OUR LONG DISTANCE SCENIC RAIL NETWORK CHRISTCHURCH - ARTHURS PASS - GREYMOUTH

CHRISTCHURCH - PICTON - WELLINGTON

15. The Canterbury Plains, at 750,000 hectares, are New Zealand’s largest area of flat land.

The plains were formed over millions of years by rivers such as the Waimakariri carrying material from the mountains and depositing it as the river flow decreases.

11. Lake Grassmere is a shallow lagoon sheltered from the open sea by a barrier beach and sand dunes. Its high salinity, along with the warm, prevailing winds, makes it ideal for natural salt extraction. Nearly half of New Zealand’s domestic salt comes from here.

16. The Rakaia River is what is known as a braided river (these are rivers that carry large amounts of sediment). As it drops, the sediment and slope decreases and the river carves a myriad of channels into the riverbed (because water always looks for the easiest path downhill).

12. The Hikurangi Trench, just 1.6 kilometres off the coast of Kaikoura, is a deep-sea trench formed in the subduction zone where one of the Earth’s plates plunges under another. Between 1,000 and 2,000 metres deep, this trench is a rich source of marine life which makes it an attractive feeding ground for the sperm whale.

17. The ice-fed Waimakariri River is the largest of the North Canterbury Rivers flowing for 151 kms from the Southern Alps to the Pacific Ocean.

18. At 920 metres, Arthur’s Pass is the highest of only three roads crossing the Southern Alps.

First travelled by Ma¯ori in search of the precious West Coast pounamu (greenstone), it was named after Sir Arthur Dudley Dobson who led the first party of Europeans across it in 1864.

19. Lake Brunner is the largest lake in the northwestern South Island. Known for its brown trout fishing, the lake empties into the Arnold River which, in turn, flows into the Grey River.

13. Rising dramatically from the sea, the Inland Kaikoura Ranges and Seaward Kaikoura ranges are parallel ranges formed along the Alpine Fault. The Inland Kaikouras included the highest mountains in the country north of the Aoraki/ Mt Cook region, the highest in this area being Tapuae-o-Uenuku (2,884 metres).

14. The North Canterbury Plains are formed from moraine gravels deposited by glaciers about three million years ago. The porous alluvial material combined with the drying northwesterly winds make the land very prone to drought.

20. Otira is the site of both the Otira Tunnel and the Otira Viaduct. When the Otira Tunnel was finally completed in 1923 it was the longest railway tunnel in the British Empire. Remarkably, while most rail tunnels are level, the Otira Tunnel has a gradient of 1 in 33.

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23. At 3,754 metres, Aoraki/Mt Cook is New Zealand’s tallest mountain. The height was reduced by 10 metres when approximately 10 million cubic metres of rock and ice fell off the mountain on December 14th, 1991.

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21. Darfield is the main town between Christchurch and the West Coast. It has a particular weather phenomenon where it often has an arch of cloud above it, caused by the condensation of water particles channelled upwards over the Southern Alps.

22. The North-West ranges, comprising the Paparoa, Victoria and north-west Nelson ranges, are not as high as neighbouring mountains but do contain New Zealand’s oldest sedimentary and volcanic rocks and its oldest fossils.

TAPUAE-O-UENUKU

WAIAU RIVER

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RANGITATA RIVER

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KIW IR A IL S CE N IC U P DAT E S

pukekohe waikato river

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AUCKLAND - NATIONAL PARK - WELLINGTON

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1. The Waikato River is the longest river in New Zealand, running for 425 kilometres.

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5. Mt Ruapehu, nearly half a million years old, is the highest peak (2,797 metres) in the North Island and the only one with glaciers.

6. Mt Ngauruhoe (2,287 metres), erupted 45 times in the 20th Century, most recently in 1977.

Its Ma ¯ori name means ‘throwing heated stones’.

13 D GE ARRAN AW A SEOUR K AI

3. Raurimu Spiral, built in 1898, is a feat of civil engineering that allows trains to conquer the 132 metre height difference between the Whanganui River valley and the Volcanic Plateau. The train travels 6.8 kilometres which, in a straight line, is just two kilometres long.

4. Lake Taupo lies in a caldera caused by a huge volcanic eruption. It has erupted 28 times in the last 27,000 years. The most recent eruption, in 180 AD, had an eruption column that turned the sky red over Rome and China.

paraparaumu

picton

2. The Waitomo Caves is an ancient labyrinth of limestone caves featuring native New Zealand glow worms. The word Waitomo comes from wai meaning water and tomo meaning a sinkhole; it can be translated as water passing through a hole.

7. Mt Tongariro (1,967 metres), is the lowest of the three central North Island volcanoes. Known as a truncated volcano, it has a number of separate peaks. Its only major active vent is Ngauruhoe which is considered a separate mountain.

CLARENCE RIVER

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KAIKOURA

8. Mt Taranaki (2,518 metres), is a stratovolcano and one of the most symmetrical volcanoes in the world. Because of its resemblance to Mt Fuji, Mt Taranaki was used as the backdrop for the movie The Last Samurai.

NORTHERN EXPLORER FERRY/BUS ROUTE COASTAL PACIFIC TRANZ ALPINE

9. The Tararua Ranges are created by the same uplifting process that formed the Southern Alps.

Stretching 100 kilometres from the Manawatu Gorge to the Rimutakas in the south, they are part of the ‘backbone’ of the North Island.

10. Kapiti Island, eight kilometres off the coast, is known today as a rodent-free, bird and marine sanctuary. In earlier times, it was home to the great chief, Te Rauparaha and later used as a whaling base when 2,000 people lived there.

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KI W I R AI L SCENI C UPDATES

ICC Cricket World Cup 2015 hits NZ soil New Zealand has been lucky enough to kick start 2015 by hosting one of the world’s largest international sports tournaments.

For the first time since 1991, New Zealand and Australia are co-hosting the ICC Cricket World Cup 2015. The tournament is billed as the world’s third largest TV event, million projected viewers KI Wwith I R AI L953 SCENI C UPDATES from around the world and thousands of supporters expected into New Zealand throughout the event.

The ICC Cricket World Cup is the flagship event of the international cricket calendar and takes place every four years, with matches contested in a 50-over format (for those non-cricketers, one over includes - six balls bowled).

New Zealand hosts 23 of the 49 matches, with three pool matches each in the seven New Zealand host cities: Auckland, Hamilton, Napier, Wellington, Nelson, Christchurch and Dunedin. Wellington also hosts a quarter-final and Auckland a semi-final.

The first matches have already kicked off in Christchurch and Melbourne on February 14th, and Melbourne Cricket Ground will host the final on March 29th.

How does the tournament work?

14 teams participate in the ICC Cricket World Cup 2015. The initial phase involves two pools of seven teams playing in a round-robin format. The top four teams

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from each pool proceed to the knock out stage of the tournament, which comprises of quarter-finals, semi-finals and the final.

There are no third place play-offs.

What to expect?

Intense competition, fantastic sportsmanship and thousands of passionate supporters. Fans enjoy sunny and festive afternoons at the cricket ovals, and entertaining match commentary.

New Zealand’s Tui Brewery has also teamed up with the ICC Cricket World Cup 2015 to offer ‘Catch a Million’, a promotion where spectators can walk away with up to a million dollars by catching a six one handed!

Where do I get tickets?

There are $5 tickets for children available to all pool matches and tickets for adults start at just $20. Tickets are still available to some matches. For match and ticketing information, visit www.cricketworldcup.com.

Getting a train to the game There are a number of ways to include one of the three long-distance scenic trains into your Cricket World Cup itinerary.

With so many games in so many locations, there’s a lot to cover, but we’ve put together a few itinerary suggestions for Black Caps supporters.

Wellington, Auckland and Christchurch pool matches - Train/ferry thoroughfare on the Coastal Pacific from Christchurch for the game in Wellington against England on February 20th. Or train from Auckland, Hamilton or Palmerston North to Wellington on the Northern Explorer.

- Train from Wellington, Palmerston North or Hamilton on the Northern Explorer to Auckland for the game against Australia on February 28th. Stop over option at National Park to walk the Tongariro Crossing on your way up.

- While in Christchurch on non-game days, jump on the TranzAlpine for a day or overnight train trip to the West Coast.

Quarter Finals 21 March, Wellington Train/ferry thoroughfare from Christchurch to Wellington on the Coastal Pacific, or train from Auckland, Hamilton or Palmerston North to Wellington on the Northern Explorer.

Semi Finals 24 March, Auckland Head north from Wellington on the Northern Explorer on March 22nd for the game in Auckland on the 24th.

KIW IR A IL S CE N IC U P DATE S

Get acquainted with Arthur’s Pass The iconic Arthur’s Pass is the highest and most spectacular pass across the Southern Alps, and is a destination well-known to both New Zealand locals and many world travellers.

Nestled between Canterbury and the West Coast (approximately the mid-way point of the TranzAlpine train journey), the Arthur’s Pass settlement is framed by the majestic peaks of the Alps and is a great base for exploring the Arthur’s Pass National Park area.

Sitting at 740 metres above sea level, it’s one of the country’s highest-altitude settlements and is home to just 50 permanent residents. Popular for its hiking, mountain trails, mountaineering and other outdoor activities, Arthur’s Pass hosts many outdoor and adventure seekers throughout the year.

History of the Pass Behind this gorgeous location is plenty of rich history to discover. The area was located by Arthur and Edward Dobson in March 1884, upon venturing into the Upper Bealey Valley and Otira Gorge while completing survey work of the Waimakariri headwaters.

Their discovery became what is now the main route for road and rail between Christchurch and Greymouth in the South Island, and the summit of Arthur’s Pass marks the boundary between Canterbury and the West Coast.

After Arthur and Edward Dobson’s report and the consequent discovery of gold on the West Coast, the decision was made to utilise Arthur’s Pass. The very first crossing was completed by a coach in February 1866, and the Midway Railway lane was opened in 1923 after tunnelling began in 1886. The history of Arthur’s Pass stretches well before Arthur and Edward Dobson’s discovery, with the pass being used by Maori to transport pounamu (jade) across the Southern Alps. The Dobson brothers ventured into the Otira River Valley on the advice of West Coast Chief Tarapuhi.

Arriving at Arthur’s Pass settlement Once you arrive at Arthur’s Pass, there are just few buildings to get acquainted with.

There isn’t much up there apart from vast quantities of natural beauty, however the town has the basics covered with a Visitor Centre, bed and breakfast, motel, and backpacker’s. There’s also a bar, restaurant, café and a few shops that sell basic groceries, fuel and some souvenirs and crafts. If you’re arriving on the TranzAlpine train, don’t forget to check out the iconic Arthur’s Pass station.

A quick guide to walks This National Park has everything from 10 minute strolls to advanced tramps.

For an easy, well-known walk that’s suitable for the whole family, you can’t go past the Arthur’s Pass Walking Track.

It’s 3.4 kilometres long and the route will take approximately an hour and twenty minutes. You’ll get a little of everything

when it comes to scenery, including wetlands, mountain views, waterfalls and alpine forestry and plants.

Avalanche Peak is a great way to get elevated views of the surrounding lofty peaks, so remember to pack a camera when you embark on this walk. It’s six to eight hours return, so ensure you have a reasonable level of fitness before setting out. However, this walk is made easier by a poled route to the summit. Start your journey in Arthur’s Pass Village, and choose from either the Scott’s Track or Avalanche Peak Track. Once you reach the summit 1,100 metres up, you’ll get clear views of Mt Rolleston and Crow Glacier.

For more information on Arthur’s Pass walks visit www.doc.govt.nz (Department of Conservation).

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KI W I R AI L SCENI C UPDATES

Handy travel apps for your New Zealand tour 1

In the past we have invested in travel books, maps and guides to plan out and navigate a holiday. Now, the smartphone in your pocket offers a high-tech alternative, putting a wealth of information right at your fingertips.

The trick is to access that data when you need it most - and that’s where some handy travel apps come to the rescue.

Here’s our pick of the most helpful apps for touring New Zealand.

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Essential New Zealand App A comprehensive travel guide from Tourism New Zealand, this app gives you access to up-to-date information about hundreds of NZ travel experiences. You can check out mustdo experiences, and save your favourites straight to the app.

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Metservice Weather Towns and cities, rural, marine, rain radars and traffic cams – all the forecasts you need from New Zealand’s National Meteorological Service.

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Navfree GPS Voice-guided directions to your destination, without an expensive in-car satellite system.

Maps are stored on your device so routes remain clearly marked even if coverage is lost.

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AirBnB A new phenomenon in booking accommodation – AirBnB connects travellers to those with ‘space to spare’. Rent a room, apartment, beach house or even a luxury tipi.

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Viber A free way to connect with your loved ones back home, Viber uses Wifi or 3G to text, call and send photos or videos worldwide to other Viber users.

Download these apps from the Apple or Android app stores. Note some may have a small price tag, and require newer operating systems for compatibility – be sure to check the requirements before you download!

new zealand autumn

Get a taste of Hollywood this Autumn Some of the world’s most beloved films have been shot in New Zealand, where the huge variety of untouched panoramas and award-winning local film crews are a major attraction. photo: Mike Langford

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NEW ZEALAND AUTUMN

Karekare Beach a beautiful, wild stretch of sand west of the Waitakeres - appeared in Jane Campion’s awardwinning The Piano (1993).

Karekare Beach Photo: Scott Venning - Courtesy of Tourism NZ

Locations such as Queenstown, Wellington, Auckland, Taranaki and Gisborne, have made appearances in silver screen productions like the Lord of the Rings Trilogy, The Chronicles of Narnia, The Last Samurai, Evil Dead and The Hobbit Trilogy.

It's these locations, and others all over New Zealand, that are now attracting fans on the trail of their favourite characters.

City of Sails and beyond Perched on a narrow isthmus between the Waitemata and Manukau Harbours, Auckland's "City of Sails" is a diverse, multicultural melting pot.

Set jetters will be interested in Woodhill Forest, which was transformed into "the white witch’s camp" for The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe. Parts of Yogi Bear and the Disney movie Bridge to Terabithia were filmed there. As was the 2013 remake of the classic horror movie Evil Dead. The forest is north-west of Auckland, just off SH16 before Helensville.

The fantasy world in Bridge to Terabithia was set in the rainforests of the Waitakere Ranges. A short drive from central Auckland, the 16,000-hectare native forest and coastal park is a popular walking spot.

Karekare Beach - a beautiful, wild stretch of sand west of the Waitakeres - appeared in Jane Campion’s award-winning The Piano (1993). A plaque set in the cliffs at the beach’s northern end remembers 24 local surf lifesavers that went off to war in Europe, and an old tramway to the south leads to an abandoned steam engine boiler - a remnant of sawmilling days.

Much further down the North Island’s west coast, Mt Taranaki an active volcano that towers above the surfing coast and peaceful pastures of the Taranaki region - transformed into Japan’s Mt Fujiyama for The Last Samurai.

Lord of the Rings Trilogy and The Hobbit Trilogy North island locations New Zealand’s most popular set-jetting trail is inspired by The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit Trilogies. Both Trilogies have been filmed in many locations across New Zealand, with many of these becoming the well-known settings for Middle-earth.

Hobbiton Movie Set Tours is top of the itinerary for 'Rings' and 'Hobbit' fans. Located on private farmland near the Waikato town of Matamata lies Hobbiton, here visitors can enjoy their own slice of Middle-earth as they explore Hobbit holes, gaze up at the Party

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 12

NEW ZEALAND AUTUMN

Tree and enjoy for a swift pint at the Green Dragon Inn. While fans in search of a spectacular new Middle-earth experience can take a tour through the farm location that Sir Peter Jackson used to depict Trollshaws Forest in theThe Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey at Hairy Feet Waitomo in the farming town of Piopio, also in the Waikato region.

In the Central North Island, the eerie volcanic landscape of Tongariro National Park, with its three active volcanoes, became Mordor - home of the dark lord Sauron.

Rivendell, temporary home of the elves in Middle-earth, is located in Kaitoke Regional Park - north of New Zealand’s capital city, Wellington. Although film sets have been dismantled and the park returned to its natural state, the area where Rivendell was set is a beautiful picnic spot with river swimming and bush walks.

Lord of the Rings Trilogy and The Hobbit Trilogy - South Island locations Queenstown, the Southern Alps and Southern Lakes district in the South Island were all featured extensively in action and backdrop location shoots for The Lord of the Rings Trilogy and The Hobbit Trilogy.

Aoraki Mt Cook, New Zealand’s highest mountain peak, became Middle-earth’s Misty Mountains. The mountain provided the backdrop to the opening sequence of The Two Towers.

The pivotal battle scene at Pelennor Field in Return of the King was filmed on a high country sheep station near Twizel, in the Mackenzie Basin. Ben-Ohau - a name that blends Gaelic and Māori and means "hill of the long windy valley" - is a 5811-hectare merino wool farm with a guest cottage.

No Lord of the Rings tour would be complete without stopping by Lothlorien or Lake Wakatipu, which became the home of the Lady of the Forest.

Adventure-seekers can also raft on the spectacular Kawarau River, which flows from Lake Wakatipu to Cromwell in Central Otago. It was the location of Argonath or the Pillar of the Kings, although the pillars were computer-generated.

The Remarkables mountain range - a popular alpine ski area in winter and located across the valley from sister ski area Coronet Peak - became the slopes of Dimrill Dale, where Aragorn led the fellowship to safety from the underground Mines of Moria.

Rugged Ida Valley, deep in Central Otago, is the location for Rohan, with the nearbyPoolburn Lake doubling as Rohirrim Village, which the Orcs ransacked in The Two Towers.

On the western side of the Southern Alps, Milford Sound is another famous Lord of the Rings tour location. Author Mark Twain described Milford Sound as "the eighth wonder of the world".

Visitors to New Zealand can also visit the setting for one of the most exciting and dramatic scenes in The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug. Pelorus Eco Adventures take Middle-earth fans on a kayaking trip down the Pelorus River - the setting for part of the Dwarves in Barrels scene.

One ring For an authentic souvenir, the "one ring" used in Lord of the Rings Trilogy was made by Kiwi jeweller Jens Hansen.

Hansen's son Halfdan continues the legacy

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Located on private farmland near the Waikato town of Matamata lies Hobbiton, here visitors can enjoy their own slice of Middle-earth as they explore Hobbit holes, gaze up at the Party Tree and enjoy for a swift pint at the Green Dragon Inn.

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at his work studio and shop in Nelson - at the top of the South Island. Hansen sells faithful reproductions of the ring, made from gold or sterling silver that come with a certificate of origin.

Ring fans short on time can pack in a lot of sightseeing with one of the many tour operators specialising in the set-jetting trail.

Nomad Safaris in Queenstown is owned by David GatwardFerguson, who was an extra in both Lord of the Rings and The Water Horse. The company offers half-day film tours of the Lake Wakatipu and Glenorchy regions, taking in scenery from Lord of the Rings,Wolverine, Vertical Limit and Narnia.

Paradise Safaris, also in Queenstown, offers 4WD movie location tours with a difference. The tour stops at key spots for photo opportunities, complete with props to replicate famous scenes such as Boromir’s last moments in Amon Hen. Heliworks Helicopters in Queenstown were involved in aerial filming and the transportation of cast in and around the Queenstown and Fiordland during the filming of The Lord of the Rings Trilogy. The pilots for Heliworks have intimate knowledge of the various locations and offer exclusive The Lord of the Rings scenic flight packages. These include The Best of Lord of the Rings, Fight to the Ford and The Great Forests.

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Avatar, the world’s bestselling movie may be its most famous international hit, but Sir Peter Jackson’s Academy Awardwinning Weta Workshop and Weta Digital have been churning out blockbuster movies for years - the latest being The Hobbit Trilogy.

Located in Wellington, the Weta Cave in Miramar is special effects heaven with a mini museum, gift shop, behind-the-scenes

NEW ZEALAND AUTUMN

Children’s fiction and non-fiction books Super

world with

eD neW it io n

ent excell quite e book three s in on storie

Enjoy Saffron’s adventures so far in this three bumper book, with games, facts , a cake recipe, a spanish gloss ary and book club note s included! her

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Enjoy Saffron’s three adventures so far in this bumper book, with games, facts, and more.

RRP: $24.99

Your chance to read about Saffron’s little sister Sage and her adventures!

RRP: $16.00

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Hobbiton Movie Set - Courtesy of www.hobbitontours.com

DRAW

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books to delight

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interviews and interactive experiences. At Window into Workshop visitors are treated to a behind-the-scenes look into the inner workings of Weta Studios with a guided tour of the exhibition space.

Visitors can also catch an up-close look at various props and models created by Weta over the years and learn about some of the processes the ground-breaking staff used to create magic for The Lord of the Rings Trilogy and The Hobbit Trilogy.

Wellington has produced some of Hollywood’s biggest movies in recent years. King Kong was produced in Wellywood, as it is informally dubbed. "Skull Island" was located in a large-scale set built above Shelly Bay, on the Miramar peninsula and the dinosaur run scene in the movie took place at surfing beach Lyall Bay. The King Kong ship, the SS Venture, has been sunk in Cook Strait. Pier scenes were shot at Miramar Wharf, in Wellington, and ocean scenes took place around Kapiti Island, a protected bird sanctuary off the nearby Kapiti Coast.

Have you ever wanted to or a gannet?

Draw New Zealand Birds shows a step-by-step approach to drawing.

RRP: $24.99 dragonsauce books

Heather Arnold

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Zealand and for the New waving copies in the street I know a good I want to stand and libraries, .’ so good that ‘This book is lifetime in schools not just good; it’s excellent it!” After a is shouting, “Buy I see it. Rangitoto book when non-fiction

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ng in /The rock standi toka tū moana and’s most Rangitoto: Te story of Auckl the dramatic out the ocean tells Rangitoto. Find the island of ction to it, striking icon, kākā’s conne ic birth, the e, and wildlif about its volcan fragile humans on its the imprint of today. are saving it how guardians over red and pored treasu be to a book Rangitoto is adults alike. by children and Post Children

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about the illustrator

awardBruce Potter is a multi-international He is also 110 books. winning illustrator of over of both adult and a musician and composer he takes on tour to schools children’s songs, which children and around the country, entertaining in his studio He works adults alike with his show. own slice of paradise. alongside his wife in their “Doodle Bug”, an Look out for his next book, and discovery book amazingly detailed search about doodling.

Bruce Potter www.brucepotter.co.nz

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46 9 780473 2840

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• Bruce Potter Long White Cloud Books

over 30 children’s Author Maria Gill has written Book awards, books, winning seven Notable awards. Maria and and shortlisting for six other the Children’s Choice Bruce collaborated with book New Zealand non- fiction award-winning of Maui’s Dolphins.

Hall of Fame, and The Last and full-time writer, Maria is a trained teacher kiwi releases on who has been organising on behalf of the 2008 since Island Motuora Department of Conservation.

Maria Gill • Bruce Potter

become part of the or will the kiwi chick Will it meet a fateful end ?

BNZ Operation Nest Egg Programme BNZ Operation Nest Egg chick, story about a A creative non-fiction also Bruce Potter. Each page illustrator ning illustrated by award-win kiwi are being saved. and text boxes about how includes photographs

about the author

Operation Nest Egg Chick a kiwi story

Operation Nest Egg Chick

father kiwi snorts Deep down in a dark burrow, a and snuffles in his sleep. creamy egg lies snug and Underneath him, a large . safe from pilfering predators

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RRP: $24.99 long white cloud books

Books to take you places…

Bruce Potter

www.mariagill.co.nz • www.brucepotter.co.nz

Explore the WETA Cave Photography by Weta Workshops - Courtesy of Tourism NZ

Books available from PaperPlus and all good bookstores or contact us direct.

15

ACCOMMODATION PICKS

Our AUTUMN accommodation picks

From the top of the North Island to the bottom of the South, make the most of New Zealand's picturesque holiday destinations and while you are at it, check out some of this season's top accommodation spots.

Whangarei

Taupo

Feilding

Lodge Bordeaux

Acapulco Motor Inn

South Street West

While enjoying the sub-tropical conditions of the north, you might as well spoil yourself with a night or three at the award winning Lodge Bordeaux where you will enjoy Qualmark five-Star luxury accommodation within walking distance of Whangarei's city centre.

Lodge Bordeaux is only a two hour drive from Auckland and less than one hour from the Bay of Islands.

Each room includes air conditioning and heating, a double spa bath (excluding the two wheelchair accessible rooms which have a fully tiled wet-floor shower), king sized beds, heated tile floors, DVD players, SKY television and much more. www.lodgebordeaux.co.nz

Travel to the centre of the North Island and you will find the Acapulco Motor Inn, which is ideally situated close to picturesque Lake Taupo, allowing you to explore what the region has to offer with a range of adventure, relaxation activities and events.

The affordable and comfortable rooms include a wide range of facilities to make your stay as comfortable as possible and if you get in quick, you might even be lucky enough to book a room with its very own whirlpool spa. www.acapulcotaupo.co.nz

Accommodation at South Street West and a meal at the Strong Room marks the perfect end to a long day checking out the sites in Feilding.

Stay at this friendly and functional motel based close to Manfeild Park and only a short stroll to the city centre. Relax at the picturesque barbecue area or enjoy a luxurious spa bath after a long day out sight-seeing. www.southstreetwest.co.nz

LODGE

A GOOD, HONEST KIWI MOTEL

Set in a convenient location, Lodge Bordeaux is within walking distance from the city’s cafes, restaurants and shopping. Beautifully appointed studio, 1 and 2 bedroom suites display exceptional attention to detail with double spa bath, complimentary Wi-Fi 500mb per stay, hush glass, air conditioning, a well appointed kitchen, licensed mini bar and a tempting wine rack!

Only 2 hours north of Wellington you can enjoy staying at a motel that is a smidgeon smarter than the rest. Combine it with an evening meal at The Strong Room and you have an unforgettable overnight experience. We can make it happen!

BORDEUX

Just minutes walk from Lake Taupo and the town centre, Acapulco Motor Inn offers a large selection of air-conditioned rooms with free Wi-Fi, LCD TV and a DVD player. Also a hot tub and BBQ area.

361 Western Hills Drive, Whangarei, Northland P: 09 438 0404 E: info@lodgebordeaux.co.nz

19 RIFLE RANGE ROAD, TAUPO PH: (07) 378 7174 FREEPHONE: 0800 37 87 174 EMAIL: INFO@ACAPULCOTAUPO.CO.NZ

www.lodgebordeaux.co.nz

www.acapulcotaupo.co.nz

16

61 South Street, Feilding P: 06 323 1811 Reservations: 0800 100 932 E: info@southstreetwest.co.nz

www.southstreetwest.co.nz The

Strong Room

R ESTAUR A NT + B A R + F U NC T IO NS

P: 06 323 0300

www.thestrongroom.co.nz

BUY NZ MADE

GIFTS FROM

GODZONE

New Zealand has long been known as one of the most breathtaking destinations in the world, with a rugged landscape overflowing with natural treasures, so it’s no wonder that so many of the products we create reflect that simple and untouched beauty.

Ask almost anyone what our most iconic products are and it’s likely sheep will be the first that spring to mind. While it’s true that sheep do feature very strongly, the stereotype doesn’t begin to capture the range of products clever Kiwis are producing.

Innovators and entrepreneurs are constantly discovering new ways to utilise our resources and create exceptional new standards for the world to aspire to. Like the country itself, these success stories are often a case of ‘the more you look, the more you will find’.

Making sure you don’t have to look too far is the key role of Buy NZ Made. The organisation was formed in 1988 with the goal of spotlighting the diverse range of world-class products that are created here in NZ. Buy NZ Made is open to anyone who creates or sells products within New Zealand, offering a range of support and promotional opportunities to help them grow and market their business.

Members (there are currently more than 1,100) are able to use the Buy NZ Made logo on their products and marketing, to tap into the growing desire to buy homegrown products and ensure their products get maximum exposure.

The logo has proven to be equally, if not more powerful on foreign shelves where customers are drawn to our clean, green image and growing reputation for quality.

That reputation is a well-earned one that’s underpinned by years of hard work, innovation and exceptional delivery, according to Buy NZ Made’s Manager, Trina Snow.

“We’re constantly in awe of the outstanding products we see, across all kinds of industries. The people, the designs, the materials they use – they’re marrying up all of these things, getting it exactly right, and providing products that are hard to beat on a number of levels.”

Snow points to Auckland-based company, OBR Merino as an example of how small Kiwi companies are turning their passion and expertise into products that are gaining attention around the globe.

OBR Merino has been making and selling their luxury merino garments for more than 20 years. Merino wool is famed for its soft,

CLEVER KIWIS Jan desig ns quality merino g arments buynz.org .nz 

thanks fo r keepin g it kiwi www.obr merino.co m

fine, lightweight warmth and Vogue magazine has heralded NZ Merino as the best in the world. That flawless combination, along with OBR’s eye for design and focus on quality has seen demand for their fine, lightweight and stylish products grow steadily in a number of countries.

Sometimes, the beauty lies purely in the thinking and the execution. Again, Buy NZ Made are quick to encourage businesses to promote this difference.

“Clever Kiwis” is an advertising campaign designed to showcase the creativity and innovation that features in so many of our products, and the highly skilled and passionate people that lie behind them.

Buy NZ Made also runs themed promotions throughout the year, making it even easier to find the right gift or product for special occasions. Promotions for events like Mothers Day highlight the incredible products that are made right here on our doorstep and encourage Kiwis to take full advantage of our good fortune.

There are thousands of products available on Buy NZ Made’s website, www.buynz.org.nz, ranging from natural skincare to exquisite jewellery, baby clothing to handmade confectionery.

Whichever takes your fancy, you can be sure that if you’re after something exceptional you’re in exactly the right place to find it.

17

BUY NZ MADE

Fashion

Buy Kiwi Made!

Jill Main New Zealand Ltd

This season we treat you with just a taste of what some of our top New Zealand artisans, retailers and businesses have to offer. Take a look at some authentic designer apparel or spoil yourself with New Zealandmade products and services.

From humble beginnings at a kitchen table, Jill Main began creating unique and inspired pieces for everyday wear. Over the past 25 years, her range has secured a firm fan-base around the world.

Inspired by the natural beauty of Aotearoa, Jill Main products are carefully crafted with the ideals of a Kiwi lifestyle in mind. Whether you're off to the boardroom, hanging out at the beach or staying at home - Jill Main has your style and comfort covered. Go to www.jillmain.co.nz to find a stockist near you.

Above: Jill Main Laser-cut veneer wood cuffs.

Left: Jill Main NZ tea towels

Anoa Design Limited Anoa Design Limited is a New Zealand-based boutique shop which designs and manufactures handbags, accessories and home-wares.

Anoa's bespoke Florian Rhodes Leather handbags and accessories can be found at the Christchurch branch and is manufactured by a talented team of ladies whose skills and commitment ensure that each product is finished to the highest quality. Check them out for yourself at 163 Ferry Road in Christchurch.

Cow hide leather hand bags - Florian Rhodes - Anoa Design

The Sheepskin Factory Located in the vibrant shopping and industrial area of Takapuna, The Sheepskin Factory only sells Sheepskin Footwear and Possum-Merino Knitwear that is made in NZ by established NZ Manufacturers who export their products all over the world.

Sheepskin, Possum, and Merino Wool have beneficial properties that are good for your body and well-being in general.

The Sheepskin Factory takes the GST off every product when it is posted overseas and all packaging handling is provided at no extra cost.

Check out the Sheepskin Factory at w ww.thesheepskinfactory.co.nz.

Comfortable sheepskin footwear - The Sheepskin Factory

18

BUY NZ MADE

Newflands makes premium sustainable products of human grade standard that care for your animals and the environment at the same time.

Healthy Pets. Happy people Available from all leading Veterinary Clinics and top animal nutritionists.

Merino Accessories Jewellery Decorative Arts

www.jillmain.co.nz

P: 09 233 4060 E: info@newflands.com Churchill Road, RD1, Tuakau

www.new flands.com

• Renowned Teritary provider for Complementary Medicine since 1995

Relax, recharge and unwind by slipping your feet into pure sheepskin luxury.

The Sheepskin Factory excels in providing you with high-quality, comfortable knitwear and shoes which incorporate New Zealand’s best merino wool, possum fur and sheepskin. Don’t settle for anything less, The Sheepskin Factory is definitely the best.

• Specialises in Aromatic Medicine (Aromatherapy & Aromascience) • Internationally registered and accreditated with NZQA, ITEC & IPFA • 3 locations, in Nelson, Wellington & Christchurch • Distance learning / e-learning options • Student dispensary experience for essential oils • Career pathways for graduates

34 BARRYS POINT ROAD, TAKAPUNA AUCKLAND E: INFO@THESHEEPSKINFACTORY.CO.NZ P +64 9 486 2679

Find us on Call us for a prospectus today Ph: 03 545 6218

www.thesheepskinfactory.co.nz

www.aromaf lexacademy.com 19

BUY NZ MADE

Inspired by New Zealand’s stunning landscape; experience serenity every time you wrap yourself in OBR Merino’s luxuriously soft capes and wraps.

The perfect travel wear, in a variety of colours - from our seaside design studio to your home. Proudly NZ Made.

P: 09 415 2646

E: sales@obrmerino.com

www.obrmerino.com

Va l l e y H o n e y

®

Mountain Valley Honey brings you award winning honeys, harvested from the beautiful Marlborough Sounds and stunning remote areas of the top of the South Island. Our bees forage to bring you Manuka, Native Bush, Honeydew, Autumn Gold and Kamahi flavours. All of our honeys are hand packed.We use the minimal amount of processing from hive to honeypot to lock in flavour for you to enjoy. Enchant your tastebuds.

OBR Merino by Cartoon For 100% NZ-made merino-wool capes and wraps, you don't need to look much further than OBR Merino by Cartoon. Each product is totally unique and comes in eight different luxurious colours.

Merino wool is warm, non-allergenic, easy to care for and soft to the skin. Each cape is made with tender loving care and keeps you snug while remaining light and comfortable to wear.

The signature button wrap can be worn six different ways and is perfect for pregnant and breastfeeding women.

Visit www.obrmerino.com to browse these beautiful designs.

FIND US AT

www.mountainvalleyhoney.co.nz 21

buy nz made

Natural Products

Animal Care

Aromaflex

Newflands

Established in 1995 by New Zealand born Shelley Monrad, Aromaflex has led the way in aromatherapy and aromatic medicine for two decades.

Each of the team members at Aromaflex have aromatherapy and aroma science therapy qualifications, with the highest Australasian and international standards.

Aromaflex customers choose oils for home and family healthcare. When you arrive at an Aromaflex dispensary and store, the qualified practitioners will assist you in finding the right blends and oils to suit your unique needs. Alternatively you can view the products online. View the Aroma Range at www.aromaflex.co.nz

Do you want the best nutrition and omega oil for your furry family member?

Newflands products will assist in maintaining your pets wellbeing by ensuring they enjoy a healthy immune system.

Newflands Pet Supplements and Pet Health Treats products include omega oil, hoki oil, manuka honey, hoki fish and sausages.

Learn more about this amazing product at www.newflands.com.

Living Green Living Green is a New Zealand owned and operated business focussing on improving the lives and environment that we live in by providing healthier and safer solutions for everyone.

The company vision is to be the leader in specialist markets globally for truly green and natural cleaning and personal care products. The brands they are currently selling in the New Zealand market include: • Sigrid's Specialty Cleaning Products Third party Certified Natural • Sigrid's Baby and Kids Care Products Third party Certified Natural • Petslove Grooming and Cleaning Products Supporting Paw Justice! To find out more, visit www.livinggreen.co.nz.

22

Food Mountain Valley Honey Mountain Valley Honey brings you award winning golden honey which has been collected from the beautiful Marlborough Sounds, Mt Richmond Ranges and Whangamoa areas.

Mountain Valley Honey's hives are situated in rural sites where the bees have a wide variety of floral sources.

Each year the company enjoys a varied harvest which can include Manuka, Native Bush, Kamahi, Autumn Gold, Clover and Honeydew. Visit www.mountainvalleyhoney.co.nz.

Bright Dairy - Pure Canterbury Based in Canterbury, Bright Dairy produces milk products which combine expert farming with state-of-the-art processing to produce a range of nutritional milk products that provide genuine benefits for your health and wellbeing.

Along with a world-class processing facility, Bright Dairy maintains control over the quality of milk supply, milk processing and market distribution to provide every customers with assurance that every food product meets food safety, security and traceability standards.

BUY NZ MADE

Lifestyle Basically Bush From the forests of New Zealand to luxury markets around the world, Basically Bush supplies fabulous wild-possum fur. New Zealand and international furriers are turning their attention to the luxurious lightweight possum fur skins following a global resurgence in fur skins.

Possum fur’s uniquely hollow fibre is light yet able to retain warmth. In the 1990’s it was discovered that when possum fur was spun with merino wool, a light, stable, and strong yarn is produced with superior heat retaining properties.

Visit www.basicallybush.co.nz for more information.

Chemical Suppliers Chemsafe The Chemsafe Group has the ability to provide you with the highest level of service, professionalism and integrity. The team has over 50 years of experience in handling hazardous goods, food-grade products, logistics and materials.

Chemsafe's aim is to provide a one-stop-shop for chemical and related industries incorporating may facets of the distribution chain, from handling imported containers, de-vanning, packaging, professional storage services, blending and manufacturing and delivery services.

Find out how Chemsafe can assist you at www. nzchemicalsuppliers.co.nz.

looking for something a little bit wild?...

“Luxurious Wild Fur brought to you from the unique forests of New Zealand”

2 Fox Street, Woodville | 06 376 5884 | www.untamed.nz

untamed

by Basically Bush 23

NORTHLAND

NORTHLAND

Visit the sub-tropics Cape Reinga Photo Ben Crawford Courtesy of Tourism New Zealand

Renowned for its sandy beaches and long, warm days, 'the winterless north' is the perfect spot to enjoy a relaxing holiday beside the sea.

Although summer has been and gone, the autumn months are still warm and there are plenty of opportunities to take advantage of the many activities available in the Bay of Islands and the surrounding towns in the far north.

Adventure sightseeing

CYCLE THE RAIL TRAIL

Whether you like the idea of being pulled behind a boat while attached to a parachute, or you are keen on speeding about on the back of a jet ski, Paihia is your one-stop-spot for adrenaline-fueled activities which you will remember for a lifetime.

Walk along the coast from Waitangi down to Paihia where you will find a variety of entertainment options, including canoeing around the islands, hiring out a boat or taking a jet ski out for an extreme experience.

Experience history

• Cycle Hire Fresh, Modern and comfortable • Information Motel accommodation set in parklike • Transport grounds caters for the executive • Assistance traveller, corporates, families and • Tours the more discerning on a budget in • Accommodation Hastings - the heart of the Hawkes’ • Baggage Transfer Bay Wine Country

INFO: 027 453 5176 TO BOOK: 0800 toptrail OR VISIT 88 Te Pua Rd, Kaikohe

www.toptrail.co.nz 24

To find out more about New Zealand's rich history, you might like to take some time out at Waitangi's Treaty Grounds, the location where Māori chiefs first signed their accord with the British Crown – the Treaty of Waitangi.

Stroll through the treaty grounds where you will be treated with a panoramic view of the stunning Pacific Ocean and the flagstaff, which marks the spot where the Treaty was signed on 6th February 1840.

You might also like to take a ferry from nearby Paihia to Russell which was the first permanent European settlement in New Zealand.

In the early 1800's, this was the spot where goods were traded, however the town soon earned a bad reputation thanks to the lack of laws and the excess of alcohol and prostitution. The town soon became known as the 'hell hole of the Pacific'.

Centuries later, this seaside village has shrugged off it's dark history and is the perfect spot to enjoy a quiet, relaxing lunch at one of the many picturesque cafes and restaurants along the seafront.

The town is also home to Christ Church, the country's oldest surviving Anglican church, which, if you look closely, includes bullet holes imbedded along the front of the church, which date back to the Māori Wars.

Where two oceans meet While you are in the beautiful northern region of New Zealand, take a trip up to the northernmost tip of New Zealand to Cape Reinga where you will witness the turbulent Tasman Sea crash into the Sub-Tropical South Pacific Ocean.

Cape Reinga has a special place in the heart of New Zealand Māori, who believe that at the northernmost tip of the Cape the spirits of the deceased leap into the ocean to return to their ancestral homeland of Hawaiki.

WHANGAREI

Whangarei Quarry Arts Centre Peace and tranquillity meets creativity The Quarry Arts Centre Only five minutes from Whangarei's CBD and just a quick turnoff from State Highway One, is the Quarry arts Centre. Walk through the entranceway and you will be entranced and surprised by the tranquil and peaceful atmosphere so close to city centre but seemingly miles away.

Art installations and sculpture, quirky and unique buildings in a village setting which nestles amongst a craggy mountainside, the Quarry Arts Centre is home to talented Northlanders and to those who appreciate art and creativity.

Ample free parking is a bonus and gives you time to enjoy exploring. In 1982, local artist, Yvonne Rust, began developing ideas for the bare, overgrown site which was originally a quarry. Over two decades later, visitors embrace the opportunity to partake in a symbiotic relationship between nature and art. A group of artists saw a niche and developed the Quarry Craft Shop.

The shop is one of New Zealand’s longest standing craft co-operatives and is run and staffed by artists who lease the

shop and sell their work. Running as a cooperative means that they don't have paid staff and all work on a volunteer basis in exchange for a low commission rate.

This effectively means that artists can sell their work at realistic prices so it becomes a win/win situation for them and for the customers. With over 30 artists represented it has a wide range of quality local and New Zealand hand crafted work available - something for everyone.

Art, sculpture, working studios, coffee studio, gallery and a wonderful cooperative Craft Shop combine with bush and nature to add up to a unique, not to be missed experience. For more information, visit www.quarryarts.org, visit the centre at 21 Selwyn Avenue, Whangarei. or look up Quarry Craft Coop on Facebook.

The Quarry Craft Shop Open 7 days 9:30am - 4:30pm THE CRAFT QUARRY SHOP, one of those hidden treasures that makes you wonder how you ever missed it!

Open seven days a week, minutes from the Whangarei CBD and just off State Highway One. Looking for something unique for that special someone or for that spot in the house just crying out for beauty and colour? Come in and see us. Talk with some of the artists responsible and learn more if you want to.

21 Selwyn Ave, Whangarei

It is a unique experience in quiet and pleasant surroundings where the hustle and bustle of main street shopping seems a million miles away.

With a range of quality local and New Zealand craft (greenstone and bone carving, jewellery, pottery, wood work, fabric, flax weaving and more) there really is something for everyone!

To view some of our unique pieces of art, check us out on Facebook.

Ph: 09 438 9884 E: quarryshop@outlook.com www.quarryarts.org

KAURI COAST

The Kauri Coast

NORTHLAND 26

Kauri Forests, fresh waters 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 one and a half 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 at Matakohe – allow at least two hours, some visitors stay all day as there is so much to see, huge slabs of kauri, the largest collection of kauri gum in the world, how the early settlers lived – a museum not to be missed.

Walking distance from The Kauri Museum is the delightful Matakohe House – a purpose built boutique Bed and Breakfast property which has a licensed café open seven days a week and they also serve evening meals. Great hosts and great food.

Dargaville is approximately 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 minutes more challenging climb.

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 also purchase slabs/bowl blanks/pen blanks etc to take home. Posting service available for your purchases.

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, RV etc. All weather sites with river views and on the Historic River Walk route.

Very reasonably priced at only $15 per van ($13.50 for NZMCA).

Power available.

Consider staying at Baylys Beach Motor Camp – they have accommodation to fit all budgets from Back Packers, campervan sites to cottages. Explore the vast coastline of Ripiro Beach – you might get to see the ancient kauri trees that are on the beach buried in the sand and up in the sand dunes. Hire a quad bike from the motor camp or experience a horse trek – both of these can be arranged at the camp.

The Northern Wairoa Golf Course is nearby if you are keen on a round of golf.

For a bite to eat you must try The Funky Fish Cafe and Bar at Baylys Beach. This is an icon and destination point for world travellers and locals alike. Perfect for a casual catch up or special Celebration, and everything in between. The Funky is the place to be... Now under new management. Sophie and Philippe from Brittany are famous for their pizzas, galettes and crepes. And they still do fish n chips.

KAURI COAST

The crystal clear waters of the Kai Iwi Lakes at Taharoa Domain are very popular both for day trippers and campers.

Tent sites and RV motorhome/campervan sites are available year round and there is walking track around the lake – takes approximately one and a half hours. You can also walk from the lakes to the coastline of Ripiro Beach.

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, do a guided night walk in the kauri forest, maybe quad ranger guided tour to the Kaipara Lighthouse, or a kumara farm/ show, a cruise on the Northern Wairoa River, a walk along NZ 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, or just relax. Produce Market in Dargaville Thursday afternoons from 2pm till 5pm.

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

Paparoa Motor Camp Small friendly motor camp, 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: booking@paparoamotorcamp.co.nz

The Woodturners Studio 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

The Kauri Museum Transport yourself back to a time of mighty Kauri forests and hardy pioneers.

Experience bygone days in a whole new way at this award winning museum.

Alongside vast timber slabs and logs harvested from the ancient forest you will find the largest collection of kauri gum in the world.

5 Church Road, RD 1 Matakohe, Northland P: 09 431 7417

Dargaville and Kauri Coast Visitor Centre

DARGAVILLE PARK OVER

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

The Funky Fish

Baylys Beach Holiday Park

www.thefunkyfish.co.nz

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

www.matakohehouse.co.nz

www.kauriinfocentre.co.nz

34 Seaview Road, Baylys Beach P: 09 439 8883

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.

www.kaurimuseum.com

www.thewoodturnersstudio.co.nz

The Funky Fish is a small, colourful café at Baylys Beach on the West Coast of Northland, New Zealand. Its an oasis of excellent food and friendly service.

Matakohe House

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.baylysbeach.co.nz

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) power site available for extra $3. Special deal – stay 3 nights & pay for 2 nights 71 River Road, Dargaville P: 09 4394975 E: kauriinfo@xtra.co.nz

Kai Iwi Lakes Taharoa Domain

Northland’s Kauri Coast shinning jewel 35 km from Dargaville. 538 hectare recreation reserve with freshwater dune lakes renowned for their beauty and clear waters. Relax, swim, trout fishing, boating, sailing, walking tracks and Campground open all year.

P: 09 439 0986 E: lakes@kaipara.govt.nz

www.kaipara.govt.nz

27

COROMANDEL

Escape to paradise

The Coromandel Peninsula Renowned for its natural beauty, rural farmland, misty rainforests and pristine golden beaches - The Coromandel is blessed with hundreds of natural hideaways, making it an ideal place to escape, relax and unwind.

Forest fantasia

One hour round trip on a scenic narrow gauge railway to a mountain top terminus with glorious views.

Daily trains suitable for all ages.

Wheelchair accessible. Art gallery, pottery and bookshop, sculpture garden, wildlife sanctuary, picnic areas and secure parking.

380 Driving Creek Road Just 3km north of Coromandel Town. Bookings advisable.

Ph: 07 8668703 E: railway@drivingcreek.co.nz

www.drivingcreekrailway.co.nz

Accommodation, Cafe, Bar Weddings, Functions 13 self contained stylish lodges - one & two bedroom options - situated in native bush with beaches close by. On site massage therapist, natural swimming hole, outdoor spa pools and helipad. The perfect place to relax and recharge.

1299 Port Charles Road, RD 4, Coromandel 3584 info@kiwiretreat.co.nz P: 0800TANGIARO or 07 8666614

www.kiwiretreat.co.nz 28

If you travel up the coast, you will find the picturesque Moehau Mountain, one of the major landmarks of the Coromandel Peninsula.

Nestled below the misty summit of Mount Moehau lies the pristine Tangiaro Valley, where you can relax and unwind while listening to the sweet sound of native birds calling amongst the trees.

The Tangiaro Kiwi Retreat is the perfect place to stay with fully self-contained and a well equipped kitchen, laundry, open plan lounge and a covered BBQ area. Choose between one or two bedrooms and recline on the deck with a good book beside the cosy gas log fire.

Each one-bedroom lodge can accommodate up to five friends or family members.

Listen for the distinctive call of the nocturnal kiwi at night from your deck and enjoy the atmosphere of the on-site cafĂŠ/bar/restaurant which is open on most days.

If you truly want to spoil yourself, unwind in one of the outdoor spa pools or indulge in a on-site massage treatment. The resort also includes a helipad on-site for those who would like to arrive via helicopter.

Beach fun A trip to the Coromandel wouldn't be the same without a visit to hot water beach, along the east coast. The name comes from its underground hot springs which filter up through the sand between the high and low water tidal reaches.

Dig your own spa pool in the sand and relax in the natural springs. Often rated as one of the world's most renowned beaches - this is one experience that should be on your bucket list. The beach also boasts some great surf, cafĂŠs and art galleries.

Tairua beach is also situated along the east coast. The twin peaks of Mt Paku guard the harbour entrance and provide a 360 degree view from the Aldermen Islands to The Pinnacles in The Coromandel Forest Park.

Tairua is only minutes away from bush and kauri grove walks, old mines and caves and Pauanui is only a short ferry ride across the harbour. The offshore islands of Slipper, Shoe and the Aldermen Islands can also be explored by booking a trip with local dive and fishing charters.

Whatever you choose to do, The Coromandel is a beautiful part of New Zealand and well worth the visit.

auckland

THE HISTORY OF AUCKLAND HARBOUR

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rf

From steam boats to cruise ships: the ins and outs of Auckland Harbour from 1840 to 1980

By Marleene Boyd, Librarian - NZ Maritime Museum All images from Auckland Harbour Board photographic collection.

Copyright New Zealand Maritime Museum

AUCKLAND

Horse and Cart on to ferry ramp

The first chart of Auckland’s Waitemata Harbour was completed in 1840

by Captain Owen Stanley on HMS BRITOMART. Stanley Point (North Shore) was named after Captain Stanley and Britomart Point (South shore) was named after the ship.

While Stanley Point still remains, Britomart Point was excavated by dozens of men with picks and shovels; a backbreaking task to create the flat land needed for a railway station.

Meanwhile Queen Street Wharf grew in length. Tees were added and as shipping companies set up shop they leased the tees for their own use. Along Customs Street, many of the buildings were built and owned by merchants and shipping companies, or leased from the Auckland Harbour Board.

Some of the shipping companies went on to become significant employers in Auckland; J. J. Craig was one of the major operators.

SET SAIL ON A VOYAGE OF DISCOVERY At Auckland’s waterfront Maritime Museum Come and discover the seafaring stories that have shaped New Zealand. Try your hand at yacht design, hear the cannon fire and test your sea legs in the rocking cabin.

You can even get out on the water with a heritage vessel sailing. Get amongst it and help hoist the sails, or sit back and enjoy the view of Auckland’s skyline.

Open 9am-5pm, 7 days a week. Harbour sailings Tue - Sun. New Zealand Maritime Museum Corner Quay & Hobson Streets, Viaduct Harbour, Auckland.

Ph: +64 9 373 0800 • www.maritimemuseum.co.nz

30

SS Puke Steaming

The company owned a fleet of fast sailing ships that carried cargo from New Zealand to Australia, as well as transporting goods by horse drawn carriages when they arrived in Auckland.

Another well-known operator was the Northern Steam Ship Company, who carried passengers and cargo to dozens of small ports around Auckland and Northland from the 1870s right through to the 1960s. Popular excursions were to Kawau Island, the Bay of Islands and the Coromandel Peninsula.

Freeman’s Bay and St Mary’s Bay became ideal sites for ship building yards. Names such as Stone, Logan, Bailey, Lowe and Carr became well known, with many of the recreational launches and yachts built by these yards are still sailing as part of Auckland’s classic fleet today.

Cutters, schooners and other workboats were also built at the Freeman’s Bay and St Mary’s Bay boat yards, while the North Shore shipyards were responsible for steamships and ferries for coastal shipping companies and the Devonport Steam Ferry Company.

Vitally important to Auckland, these ferries connected many of the smaller bays and communities on the North Shore.

Initially they carried passengers only, then vehicular ferries were introduced to carry horses and carts, and eventually cars, vans

AUCKLAND

Quay Street and Wharves Jan 1905

and trucks. When Auckland Harbour Bridge opened in 1958, the vehicular ferries ceased their service and the wharves that Auckland Harbour Board maintained for them were dismantled.

Timber merchants also had their premises and yards along Freeman’s Bay and Mechanics Bay to the east of the port. Scows transported timber logs from the forests of the Coromandel and Great Barrier Island to feed the growing city. The logs were rolled off the scows into the water and placed on rafts, ready for small steam boats like the Maritime Museum’s PUKE to pull them to the sawmills on the waterfront.

Fort Britomart was a Defence Fort for the British Navy in the 19th century. After the point was removed and the land around it reclaimed it became the site for the Auckland Railway Station.

The shipyards eventually gave way to the formation of Fanshaw Street, the construction of the Tepid Baths and reclamations to form Quay Street and the Tank Farm on Wynyard Wharf.

The first European immigrants arrived by sailing ships during the 19th century, and then by steam ship well into the 20th century. The Dunedin based New Zealand Shipping Company had a fleet of sailing ships that brought immigrants to New Zealand, and British shipping companies such as Shaw Savill & Albion also transported thousands.

As immigration ships became larger to carry both passengers and cargo, the Harbour Board needed to increase the port and wharf facilities to accommodate them. By the turn of the 20th century, Queen Street Wharf was well past its use-by date and the Board made plans to replace it. Completed in 1908, the new wharf was named Queens Wharf and had five large cargo sheds.

Cargo ships were also getting bigger and new wharves were developed for them in the early 20th century. Railway lines from the station came along Quay Street, enabling goods from towns outside of Auckland to be transported directly into the city and loaded onto the ships. The Railway Wharf was the first to be completed in 1908 at a cost of £161,000.

Reclamations continued into the second half of the 20th century to build wharves that could accommodate larger passenger liners and later container ships. These included Queen’s Wharf, Princes Wharf, King’s Wharf and Central Wharf, followed later by Jellicoe, Bledisloe and Fergusson Wharves.

By the 1970s, large ships with holds for their cargo gradually gave way to ships that carried 20ft and 40ft containers on their decks. The wharves at the eastern end of the ports were made even bigger to accommodate cranes and store containers waiting to be shipped overseas.

The Munster Inn A bar so authentically Irish, it’s as if it had 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 genuine Irish bar.

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

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AUCKLAND

N E W Z E A L A N D S Y M PHON Y ORCH E ST R A

Enjoy the ultimate concert experience of a full symphony orchestra with the world’s top artists. Experience the wonder, the power, the emotion.

SEASON CONCERTS

freddy kemp’s beethoven Janine Jansen plays tchaikovsky Wagner gala hilary hahn plays beethoven renée fleming gala evening AND MANY MORE

BOOK NOW

The 2015 Season launched with a record-breaking response. Now is your chance to secure your seats for this fast-selling concert season.

Single tickets now available.

Roadway Princes Wharf - 1928

As security was tightened, the public view of the working port decreased. The iconic red fence that runs along Quay Street was initially designed to stop pilfering of cargo from individual storage sheds, but eventually it was extended to secure the whole area from Princes Wharf to Mechanics Bay. Auckland Harbour Board even had a dedicated Traffic Department to ensure that all papers and documentation were checked before trucks and railway waggons were allowed on or off the wharves.

The Ports of Auckland Company was established in 1988 and runs the Port today on behalf of Auckland Council.

One of the best ways to see the Port of Auckland and how it works today is from the deck of one of the Maritime Museum’s traditional sailing or steam vessels.

Sources: Auckland Harbour Board photograph collection Auckland Harbour Board Archives (several files) The ports of Auckland, New Zealand : a history of the discovery and development of the Waitemata and Manukau harbours / prepared by direction of the Auckland Harbour Board to commemorate its jubilee, 1871-1921 by John Barr.

Auckland : Unity Press, 1926. History of the Auckland Harbour Board, 1871-1955 / by V.A.C Christiansen. [Auckland : Auckland Harbour Board, 1955. Auckland Harbour Board : an historical summary / prepared for the Auckland Maritime Museum by Peggy Allen. Auckland : Auckland Harbour Board, 1987. A preliminary investigation of the historic shipbuilding industry of Auckland / J. Debreceny. Auckland : Dept. of Conservation, 1992.

32

WAIKATO

Hobbiton Movie Set comes to life Nestled amongst the rolling green hills of the Waikato is Hobbiton™ Movie Set, the picturesque setting of The Shire that featured in the Peter Jackson trilogies The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit.

Immerse yourself in Middle-earth with a visit to the Hobbiton Movie Set; just 15 minutes drive from Matamata in the heart of the Waikato. The set has been completely rebuilt from permanent materials in 2009 for The Hobbit trilogy and is now a permanent attraction.

The tour starts with a drive through the picturesque 1,250 acre sheep and beef farm with spectacular views across to the Kaimai Ranges. Your guide escorts the group through the twelve-acre site, recounting fascinating details of how the Hobbiton Movie Set was created.

In December last year, Hobbiton Movie Set was ‘Switched On’.

The guests walking the trails of Hobbiton during the day will reap the benefits of the ‘Hobbiton coming to life’ developments.

The chimneys of Hobbit holes scattered throughout the set are now bellowing smoke into the sky, creating the illusion of fully operational fireplaces burning inside.

The set has been completely redecorated with many barrels, carts and new props making the Shire feel alive and lived in.

Additionally the Oak tree above Bag End, the home of Bilbo and Frodo Baggins has been releafed with over 376,000 leaves, giving Bilbo a shady spot to relax in over the summer months.

For evening function and incentive groups, the Hobbit holes throughout Hobbiton are now wired with power, giving Hobbiton™ Movie Set the ability to offer twilight tours with the trails spectacularly lit up. This new development of Hobbiton includes the illumination of other key landmarks around the set such as the Mill, Bridge, the Party Tree and The Green Dragon™ Inn. Southfarthing™, Hobbiton Movie Sets exclusive ale, cider and ginger beer, usually only available from the barrels of The Green Dragon Inn has now been bottled and is available for purchase. With over 35,000 litres served since the opening of The Green Dragon in December 2012. The Southfarthing range is traditionally brewed for Hobbiton Movie Set, right here in Middle-Earth, New Zealand. The thirst quenching Southfarthing range captures the taste of The Shire, home of the Hobbits and is traditional enough to put hair on anyone’s feet.

Hobbiton Movie Set’s General Manager, Russell Alexander said the developments were a great addition to an already impressive tour. Hobbiton has seen visitation double again for the fourth successive year, with over 200,000 visitors expected this year.

“These are exciting times for us to be bringing Hobbiton in The Shire to life and embrace the release of the second movie ‘The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug’. We have a wonderful relationship with Warner Brothers and their major NZ partner, we are looking forward to working with them in promoting the movies and NZ”.

To book a tour of Hobbiton Movie Set. e: office@hobbitontours.com p: 0508 4 HOBBITON w: www.hobbitontours.com

33

auckland

Beautiful Bay of Plenty Bay of Plenty includes a year-round sunny climate, endless sandy beaches overlooking the Pacific Ocean and a great holiday vibe. The Pacific Coastal Highway travels along 125km of scenic white-sand beaches but it’s not just the sun and surf that make this part of New Zealand such a popular holiday spot.

View to Rabbit Island, Mount Maunganui. Courtesy of Tourism Bay of Plenty

With a mild year-round climate, this region boasts many outdoor activities and scenic attractions to compliment the rich culture and flavours. Just off-shore, White Island / Whakaari – New Zealand’s only active marine volcano – offers visitors the chance to experience a geological wonder.

And, while Māori culture and history has played a pivotal role in enriching modern Bay of Plenty life, modern Kiwi ingenuity has brought the region to the fore as the birthplace of blokart – a threewheeled, land based yacht that provides a revolutionary speed thrill.

Seasonal highs The Bay of Plenty is officially New Zealand’s sunniest destination, enjoying short-lived winters and long summer days.

Tauranga - New Zealand’s fifth largest and fastest growing city is a sophisticated centre of boutique shopping, thriving café culture and discerning eateries fuelled by the ready supply of seafood and local produce.

At the entrance to Tauranga Harbour, Mauao / Mount Maunganui - known locally as ‘The Mount’ - has long been a favourite Kiwi beach holiday destination. With internationally recognised surf breaks, warm ocean waters and white sand beaches, the Bay of Plenty attracts big crowds over the Christmas/New Year period when events and festivals are in full swing.

While you are in the region, check out the great accommodation options including The Pavilions Beachfront Apartment Hotel, which is situated on the beachfront and includes spacious luxury, fully self-contained apartments. The hotel is situated close to the hot water pools and only a two minute walk from the city shuttle bus.

34

Plenty for everyone Bay of Plenty’s heritage threads through various landscapes in a fascinating procession for visitors to explore and enjoy as they travel the Pacific Coast Highway stretching from Waihi Beach to beautiful seaside Ohope.

When British navigator Captain James Cook arrived in 1769, he bestowed the title of ‘plenty’ on the bay that supplied fresh resources from land and sea to replenish his crew, and it’s no different today in a region reputed for its agriculture and marine harvests.

MAori heritage The region traces its Māori heritage back 1,000 years, when three Māori waka (canoes) arrived in New Zealand. Cultural experiences include Mataatua Marae - ‘the house that came home’ is located in Whakatane and has a singular story to tell.

The restoration of the Mātaatua Wharenui / Māori meeting house to its original home at Whakatane, on the Bay of Plenty coast, signals a new era for the much-travelled house that was once dedicated to a British monarch.

When the magnificent wharenui was completed in 1875, it was said to be "fit for a queen" and the local Ngāti Awa tribe offered their treasured house to Queen Victoria as her Whakatane homeaway-from-home.

Curiously, while the tribe’s historic gesture never came to fruition because the Queen didn’t come to New Zealand, the wharenui eventually ended up in London where King George and Queen Mary visited it in 1924.

It also made appearances in Australia, and spent many years in a South Island museum.

bay of plenty

EXPERIENCE MT MAUNGANUI’S BEACHFRONT LUXURY ACCOMMODATION Fully self contained 1,2,3 bedroom apartments All rooms have balconies with Partial Seaviews or Full Oceanviews Mini bars in all rooms Secure Wi-Fi access Guest select 70+ sky digital TV Onsite restaurant Free secure car parking P: +64 7 572 0001 Freephone: 0800 472 8454 Your Hosts: Raewyn & Tony Brindle E: bookings@pavilion.net.nz 4 Marine Parade - Main Beach - Mount Maunganui

www.pavilion.net.nz

Kite Surfing at Mount Maunganui - Courtesy of - Tourism Bay of Plenty

Now, after a 15-year conservation programme, the 19th-century wharenui has reopened on its original site, ready to share its singular and compelling story with visitors and act as a cultural focus for the local Ngāti Awa tribe.

The wharenui’s final resting place is on the site where it was originally built - in a dramatic coastal setting with native bush clad backdrop, on the outskirts of Whakatane.

Adventure outdoors The Pacific Ocean is an endless playground for fishing, diving and wildlife encounters including swimming with some of the 10,000 dolphin pods resident in the region.

Offshore, Whakaari / White Island is New Zealand’s only active marine volcano. Guided tours by helicopter or sea land on this colourful powerful landscape for a once-a-lifetime experience. Visitors can also choose to fly over the steaming island for remarkable vistas.

At Papamoa Beach, the self-drive blokarts - locally-designed three-wheel, land based yachts – are designed to provide a revolutionary speed thrill.

Finish the day with a relaxing soak at Mount Maunganui’s hot salt water pools, under the shadow of Mauao or enjoy a warm sunset walk around or climb the iconic ‘Mount’. www.newzealand.com

MATAATUA MAORI MARAE EXPERIENCE An authentic personal experience in the heart of Whakatane in the Bay of Plenty.

Learn the journey of The House That Came Home.

new zealand’s only repatriated and most travelled māori meeting house

www.mataatua.com 35

TARANAKI

TARANAKI

RETRACING THE SURF HIGHWAY

Taranaki's Mighty Surf Photographer Rob Tucker. Courtesy Of Venture Taranaki

News reports of New Plymouth claiming the title ‘Surf City’ got Antony Rhodes thinking about a pilgrimage to the Taranaki coastline he made as a considerably younger man. He retraces his steps around Surf Highway 45, and discovers the region has a lot more to offer than just great surf.

Everyone has a rose-tinted recollection of that great Kiwi tradition – the road trip.

Generally these memories feature an endless summer, a large yet still overloaded station wagon, and a far-flung destination with a beach, lake or mountain.

My own was as a young surfer, in an overloaded Mini, along Taranaki’s 105km Surf Highway 45 which loosely follows the coast from Hawera in the south to New Plymouth in the north of the province. Needless to say I jumped at the chance to revisit the journey, albeit in a car now overloaded with the paraphernalia of a young family instead of boards, and excited pre-schoolers in the seats once reserved for long-haired surfer mates.

Beginning early, as all good road trips do, we left Hawera and hit the coast. The mythical peak of Mount Taranaki was in full view, with barely a cloud in the sky on this spring morning. The first stop is the town of Manaia, where we were welcomed by giant loaves of bread. These lured us into the bakery at the Yarrows bread factory, to load up on baked goodies.

Piling back in the car we head ten minutes along the Surf Highway to Kaupokonui Beach, where riverside picnic tables offer lovely views, and are soon laden with a range of fresh bread products. A bridge spanning the crystal clear river leads to some sand hills and a long empty beach, which offers many options for exploration.

Opunake itself is very well serviced, with enough cosy cafes to suggest it would make a great destination for a long weekend. We choose the surf shop above the beach for a caffeine fix, and get a great insight into the day’s surf conditions and local gossip. Of note are the town’s murals, which span everything from local history to the surf culture.

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TARANAKI

New Plymouth

Surfer Slashing The Wave Photographer Rob Tucker Courtesy Of Venture Taranaki

We make the short drive down to the lovely Opunake Beach, where a handful of surfers are enjoying the sheltered spring conditions.

On land there’s a watery playground of a different kind, where a network of stainless steel pipes – perhaps a nod to the region’s oil and gas and dairying heritage – forms a changing curtain of water, to the delight of the kids.

About eight kilometres north of Opunake we stop at one of the few signs of the local oil industry, the Maui Production Station at Oaonui. The visitor's centre has a range of scale models of the Maui A and B offshore platforms, and even of the lifeboats that had both the kids and their parents enthralled.

Back on Surf Highway 45, we notice some interesting geographic features, in addition to the picture-perfect mountain to our left.

The hundreds of small round hills, remnants of ancient lahars that flowed from the mountain, punctuate the landscape, many still showing the scars of hand-hewn pa sites.

A detour down Cape Road leads us through more of these almost comical hills to the Cape Egmont Lighthouse, which marks the western-most point of Taranaki. The lighthouse has a very rich history, from its construction in England in the 1850s to its first home on Wellington’s Mana Island. It was then a casualty of Taranaki’s land wars – the passive resistance movement based at nearby Parihaka Pa delayed its construction by several years. A museum to the light has been built at the end of nearby Bayley Road.

In the town of Okato we stop for lunch at the aptly named Lahar, a fantastically laid back café that clearly also serves as a community hub. The coffee and the food are spot on, and we get our second surf report of the day from the friendly staff.

Well fuelled, we head to the coast at the seaside community of Oakura to run off some energy on the black-sand beach, again with the ever-present backdrop of Mount Taranaki, before exploring the art and craft studios of Oakura village. The Taranaki coast is home to a vibrant and creative community, who clearly relish the dramatic landscape that spans mountain to surf in only a few kilometres. In fact, Taranaki is one of the few places in the world where you can ski and surf on the same day.

Approaching New Plymouth, via the scenic coast road above Back Beach, we veer off to the equally attractive Port Taranaki, and its sheltered Breakwater Bay precinct. Featuring an impressive array of businesses and cafes, we head to Chaddy’s Charters for a fantastic journey in a restored English lifeboat to the seal colonies and marine park around the Sugarloaf Islands off New Plymouth’s coast.

We round off our adventure around Surf Highway 45 with dinner at Gusto, a restaurant extending over the water at Breakwater Bay and offering a delicious array of local fare. From here it’s a short stroll along New Plymouth’s Coastal Walkway to our cabin at the Belt Road Holiday Park, with views across the front porch that rival anything we’ve seen all day, particularly as the sun goes down on our great Kiwi road trip.

Sole Founding Partner

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taranaki

New Plymouth iSITE Must Do’s 1.

Climb Paritutu Rock, the remnants of a two-million-year-old extinct volcano, and enjoy the spectacular views.

2.

Take a fun trip around the Nga Motu/Sugar Loaf Islands Marine Protected Area on an old English lifeboat with Chaddy’s Charters.

3.

4.

Bike or walk the Coastal Walkway to Te Rewa Rewa Bridge.

5.

6.

7.

Stroll around Pukekura Park and Brooklands Zoo.

8.

9.

Ride the rails on the Forgotten World Highway.

Taranaki Beach Rob Tucker. Venture Taranaki

Te Rewa Rewa Bridge Rob Tucker. Venture Taranaki

Breathe in the fresh air and enjoy a range of walks on Mount Taranaki (including the Pouakai Crossing) or in summer climb to the summit.

Learn the history of Taranaki with a visit to Puke Ariki Museum.

Sunset on New Plymouth Coastal Walkway Rob Tucker. Venture Taranaki

Step back in time and experience the boat journey ‘Traders and Whalers’ at Tawhiti Museum.

Visit New Plymouth’s gardens of international and national significance including Te Kainga Marire, Pukeiti and Tupare.

10. Pack a picnic and enjoy the local beaches, or take a surfing lesson. mark dwyer

Rob Tucker/Venture Taranaki

New Plymouth Let the local experts plan your stay | visitnewplymouth.nz | 0800 639 759 Located at Puke Ariki Museum, 65 St Aubyn Street

Pouakai Crossing. Photo: Jeremy Beckers

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XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX hawke's bay

Hawke's Bay

AUTUMN GLAMOUR Named after Sir Edward Hawke, first Lord of the Admiralty, the Hawke's Bay is a beautiful part of New Zealand which is well worth the visit.

Cape Kidnappers Photo Rob Suisted. Courtesy of Tourism New Zealand

39

HAWKE'S BAY

Beginning at the northern tip of the Hawke's Bay, the Mahia Peninsula Scenic Reserve is a beautiful slice of nature to visit. Once you have visited the reserve, head inland via the Wairoa-Gisborne highway to the Morere Hot Springs which are set amongst a stunning native bush reserve with superb walking tracks.

Stay in 1930’s elegance in a park like vineyard setting between Hastings & Napier, 10 minutes’ drive to either.

Luxuriate in a private en-suite from $150 per room, breakfast included, or take the whole house for up to 8 guests at only $550 per night.

Experience one of the most exciting eras of design…Art Deco. In Napier, the Art Deco capital of NZ. MEADOWOOD has an unmistakable air of timeless elegance, combined with 1930’s Hollywood Glam. Live in Style!

Cultural significance And if you are not already impressed by the pretty region, you will be interested to know about the hill with a very long name.

Taumatawhakatangihangakoauauotamateaturipukakapikimaungahoronukupokaiw he-nuakitanatahu is the name which was given to the hill by local Maori of Ngati Kere to celebrate their powerful ancestor; Tamatea Pokai Whenua.

The brave warrior and chief was involved in a fight with the Ngati-Hine tribe, known as the Matanui battle which ended with the loss of his brother. Tamatea was so pained by the loss of his brother that he remained in the area in which the fight had taken place.

The hill where he sat and played the Koauau (Maori flute) in memory of his brother was later named ‘The hilltop where Tamatea with big knees, conqueror of mountains, eater of land, traveller over land and sea, played his koauau to his beloved.’

The song is still played at modern Tangi (a ceremonial Maori funeral or wake) and the sad story still rings throughout the home of Tamatea.

Historical significance Home to a massive earthquake in 1931, Napier and Hastings was rebuilt from the ground up. Thanks to the fashion of the day, many of the buildings were rebuilt in the style of art deco. In fact Napier has one of the highest concentrations of Art Deco architecture in the world.

Shopping and dining YOUR HOSTS: MARK & SHELLY WITCHALLS 1769 Korokipo Road, RD3, Napier 4183 P: 06 876 7816 M: 0275 281900 E: info@meadowoodhouse.co.nz

www.meadowoodhouse.co.nz

16 luxury rooms Airconditioned FREE Internet Quiet central location 50+ SKY channels Close to all Hawke’s Bay attractions www.ballinamotel.co.nz 393 Gloucester Street Taradale, Napier Reservations: 0508 22 55 42

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If you are looking for the hustle and bustle of a New Zealand town, visit the chic village of Havelock North and the stunning Spanish Mission city of Hastings. While you are in Hastings you might want to partake in some wine tastings in one of the 65 wineries found in the district or you may choose to take a walk up to the top of Te Mata Peak or rise for an early morning hot air balloon ride. The Hastings City Art Gallery is also the place to go for art fans.

If romantic walks along the shore are more your thing, you will love Ahuriri which 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.

Surrounded by the stunning art-deco buildings and supported by a Mediterranean climate, Napier is also popular for its Stripped Classical and Spanish Mission buildings.

Most travellers prefer to stay in comfortable accommodation between Napier and Hastings and for those in the know, the Ballina Motel is a luxurious air-conditioned option.

Centrally located in Taradale midway between Napier and Hastings, the Motel is the perfect place to relax after an action-packed day.

While you are in the neighbourhood, take a break at the picturesque seaside village of Ahuriri. Enjoy a relaxing stroll along the estuary and be inspired by the panoramic view of the Pacific Ocean.

Relax for a night or two at the Crown Hotel which is set in Ahuriri and offers boutique accommodation with 42 guestrooms and suites. The Crown Hotel Napier is an elegant hotel offering the ultimate combination of classic opulence and history to modern luxury and design. Each studio includes a sun-drenched private deck with sea views either directly from the room or the balcony.

Hop back to Napier and stroll along Marine Parade where you will find the Par two MiniGolf centre which is situated alongside Napier's i-SITE visitor's centre. Putt to your heart's content and check out the leader board to see how you stack up against the rest.

You might also like to pack a picnic and come back later in the day for a return discounted game.

With a wine heritage that dates back as far as the 1850s, Taradale is also a lovely spot to relax and unwind. Enjoy stylish and comfortable rooms at the Ballina Hotel, with a continental or traditional farmhouse cooked breakfast every morning.

While you are in Napier, the i-SITE Visitor Centre is part of the official nationwide Visitor Information Network. For your holiday bookings and advice including accommodation, travel, tours, events and activities the team of local experts are waiting to help you. The Napier i-SITE which is open seven days, from 9am – 5pm, with extended hours during the summer.

The Hawke's Bay has a wonderful story to tell, why not check it out and see for yourself!

HAWKE'S BAY

Be Inspired...

Be Delighted..

Be Inspired...

Be Delighted..

Delicious wine Photo Chris McLennan. Courtesy of Tourism New Zealand

Be Inspired...

Be Delighted‌.

A peak biking experience Photo Chris McLennan. Courtesy of Tourism New Zealand

www.thecrownnapier.co.nz | www.chiccollection.co.nz Be Inspired...

Cnr Bridge Street & Hardinge Road, Ahuriri | P: +64 6 833 8300 | reservations@thecrownnapier.co.nz

Be Delighted‌.

www.thecrownnapier.co.nz | www.chiccollection.co.nz

41 Cnr Bridge Street & Hardinge Road, Ahuriri | P: +64 6 833 8300 | reservations@thecrownnapier.co.nz

WELLINGTON

WELLINGTON

WHERE IT'S HAPPENING Wellington has been catching plenty of international praise this year, with BBC Travel naming it one of ‘2015’s Hottest Cities’, travel publishers Rough Guides putting it in their ‘Top 10 Cities for 2015’ and none other than Vogue.com calling it ‘The Coolest Little City in the World’.

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The Bresolin. Courtesy of www.wellingtonnz.com

WELLINGTON

For locals though, Wellington’s mix of culture, cuisine, nightlife and events is no breaking news story. The compact, cosmopolitan capital has long been a favourite urban destination for New Zealanders, and this autumn is a perfect time to find out why.

Events and experiences The Jim Beam Homegrown music festival (Mar 7th) is not just a showcase of awesome New Zealand music, it’s a demonstration of just why Wellington is such a great events destination. 57 Kiwi bands play across seven stages set around the beautiful waterfront precinct. Over the day you can wander from the grunty guitars of the likes Shihad and Devilskin, to the laid-back grooves of Shapeshifter, Katchafire and Kora, then get your dance on to some Concord Dawn, Tiki Taane, P Money and much, much more. Plus, at the end of the day it’s a short walk to party on in town or just head back to city accommodation.

Wellington’s also world-famous for its coffee, (CNN’s ‘eight great world coffee cities’ – just saying), and the Caffeination – New Zealand Festival of Coffee (March 21st - 22nd) is heaven on earth for bean-heads. For the less-obsessive, it’s a fascinating and delicious introduction to a whole new world of specialty coffee growing, brewing and presentation. Enjoy tastings of different origins, roastings and brewing methods, and discover how to brew the perfect cup of coffee at home. And you can see the country’s top baristas go head-to-head in the New Zealand Barista Championships, to win the right to represent us at the World Barista Championships in Seattle.

The streets of Wellington are a style blogger’s paradise, where cool is the way you wear it. Whatever the look you like to rock, you’ll find a boutique or designer in the capital that fits you. For a look at the latest trends and up-and-coming designers, head

53 Courtenay Place, Wellington, New Zealand www.thelittlewaffleshop.co.nz www.facebook.com/thelittlewaffleshop @thelittlewaffleshop #thelittlewaffleshop

Bank of New Zealand Museum Explore this unique view of New Zealand’s social and financial evolution since 1861.

We offer flexible, interactive educational visits for students years 2-13.

P: 04 474 6933 E: museum@bnz.co.nz L1, 60 Waterloo Quay (Opposite the Railway Station) Open: 9am - 4.30pm Monday to Friday Free entry

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WELLINGTON

HAWK’S INN

MOTEL • UPPER HUTT, WELLINGTON

The Hawks Inn is a Qualmark 4 star rated motel with 16 well equipped 1 and 2 bedroom units, with self-catering kitchens, comfortable beds and a friendly atmosphere. All bathrooms are equipped with hairdryers and some bathrooms have spa baths.

Accommodation at Hawk’s Inn Motel is large and spacious, ideal for Wellington business visitors, families and groups.

The central courtyard of the motel has a fully fenced pool and spa pool which guests can relax in at the end of a busy day. All rooms have SKY TV and Freeview with complimentary wireless internet. There is ample off street free parking available at the front and back of the motel.

T: 0800 500 838 E: stay@hawksinnmotel.co.nz 704-706 Fergusson Drive, Elderslea, Upper Hutt Wellington

www.hawksinnmote l .c o. n z

EXPERIENCE NZ’S VIBRANT MOVING IMAGE AND SOUND CULTURE

Studio shoot for Pixie Caramel television commercial (Kelvin Peach on camera).

Ngā Taonga Sound & Vision Documentation Collection, Wellington.

Vist the Ngā Taonga Sound & Vision gallery, medialibrary, cafe and cinema FOR CURRENT SCREENINGS, EXHIBITIONS AND EVENTS PLEASE RING (04) 499 3456 OR CHECK OUR WEBSITE CNR GHUZNEE & TARANAKI STREETS, WELLINGTON

ngataonga.org.nz

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Wellington City at Dawn. Photo Dillon Anderson Courtesy of www.wellingtonnz.com

to the catwalks of Wellington Fashion Week (April 8th - 12th). Both New Zealand and international labels will be in town, and the city’s fashion retailers will be putting their best foot forward (in a gorgeous shoe, naturally).

Some of the hippest stores are on Cuba St. Packed with boutiques, bars, cafes, galleries, tattooists record stores, buskers and street artists it’s the beating bohemian heart of the city. This year, the CubaDupa street festival (March 28th - 29th) will celebrate the creative culture and community of this unique Wellington ‘quarter’. With street food, music, theatre, dance and carnival and both day and evening events it’ll be the last big party of the summer, or the first for winter – however you want to look at it!

Wellington is known for the beauty of its harbour and hills. Wrapped in a green belt of parks and tracks, the capital city offers mountain bikers breathtaking views, rugged landscapes and exhilarating rides on a network of purpose built trails ranging from easy to demanding.

If you like to take in the sights, Mudcycles is the perfect destination to begin your cycling journey around the beautiful city. Wellingtons leading mountain bike centre amongst the hills above the city at the base of Makara Peak - Wellingtons world class mountain bike park.

Mud Cycles offers a full range of services from bike hire through to sales of new and used bikes.

Delicious cuisine Whenever you’re in Wellington you’re never far from a great place to eat or drink.

The cuisine scene is vibrant, with new places popping up all the time. Check out The Bresolin, a new flagship bistro from the Bresolin brothers, Lorenzo and Leonardo, second generation Wellington restaurateurs from a family synonymous with hip and soulful capital dining. Seafood lovers should try Whitebait, a brand new harbourside restaurant on Clyde Quay Wharf, where the freshest of kaimoana (seafood) is celebrated in a delectable menu from award-winning Wellington chef Paul Hoather. Thirsty craft beer fans have got to pay a visit to the legendary Tuatara Brewery’s new microbrewery and tasting room, The Third Eye, in Arthur Street. Pioneers of Wellington craft brewing, Tuatara’s ‘temple of taste’ is set to be a place of pilgrimage for visitors to the craft beer capital.

WELLINGTON

Nau mai e ngā hua o te wao o te ngakina o te wai tai o te wai Māori Haumi e! Hui e! TĀIKI E! I Welcome the gifts of food from the sacred forests from the cultivated gardens from the sea from the fresh waters Draw together! Affirm!

Whitebait Restaurant, Clyde Quay Wharf

Arts and culture Most Wellington itineraries quite rightly include a visit to Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa. This year, our spectacular and contemporary national museum has a big role to play in the commemorations of the 100-year anniversary of the ANZAC landings of World War One. On ANZAC Day (April 25th), Te Papa will open a special long-term exhibition, Gallipoli: The scale of our war. Created with the assistance of Weta Workshop, the exhibition will deliver an immersive, emotional experience, inspired by the real words of New Zealanders who struggled, survived and died in the campaign at Gallipoli.

Alternatively, you might like to check out the BNZ Museum, which showcases nearly 150 years of banking history in New Zealand. From the early gold rush days, through to the notes and coins of the 21st century, BNZ Museum showcases and interesting timeline of banking in New Zealand and around the world.

ANZAC Day will also see major commemorations from dawn at the newly refurbished National War Memorial. And that evening, celebrating the Trans-Tasman brotherhood forged in the Great War, New Zealand’s capital plays host to Australia’s game, AFL, otherwise known as Aussie Rules football. This year’s ANZAC Day match up will see Wellington’s adopted ‘home team’ St Kilda vs Carlton at Westpac Stadium. If you’ve never watched an AFL match live, it’s a fast-paced, high energy sport with big leaps and even bigger hits. And even for the uninitiated, it’s easy to follow and very entertaining – plus it may just deepen your understanding of our neighbours across the ditch.

From May 22nd - 24th, the Royal New Zealand Ballet, in collaboration with the New Zealand Army Band, will mark the ANZAC centenary with a very special programme of works entitled Salute. Music and choreography, including the world premiere of two new works, combine in a moving tribute to those who served and sacrificed in our name.

In a lighter vein, Circa Theatre, located right on the waterfront is bringing to life the comic classic A Servant to Two Masters, (May 2nd - 30th). In a sharp, new, rapid-fire adaptation from award-winning dramatist Lee Hall, this hilarious madcap comedy of disguises, tricks, mishaps and mistaken identities is a hugely enjoyable night out. Meanwhile, another classic gets a contemporary reboot at Circa when one of Wellington’s hottest theatre companies, a slightly isolated dog premieres a new show, Don Juan, (April 25th – May 23rd) based on Moliere’s original.

Sexy, fierce and raucous this much-anticipated work from a company renowned for innovation and dazzling theatricality is sure to intrigue, delight and surprise.

WELLINGTON CENTRAL

Mud Cycles Experience Wellingtons best adventure activity!

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 May 31st 2015. Before 10:30am.

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

HALSWELL LODGE

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 10 Makara 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)

• • • •

Budget hotel rooms Spacious 4-star units with kitchenette Luxury rooms with spa bath Sky sports, Movies, Free Parking and Free WIFI • Walking distance to Te Papa • Surrounded by restaurants • Close by Airport Bus station 21 Kent Terrace, Courtenay Place P: +64 4 385 01 96 E: reserve@halswell.co.nz

www.halswell.co.nz 45

wellington

Andrea Moore Store

Fashion in the city Wellington is home to fashion and many top New Zealand designers make the city their home. Whether it comes to funky jewellery or top designer shoes and clothing, you will find what you are looking for on the main streets of Wellington.

For those who are looking for someone special to bring home to their loved ones, PÄ ua World designs and makes beautiful paua pieces for locals and tourists to enjoy.

PÄ ua is the MÄ ori name given to three species of large shellfish, also known as abalone or ormer shells. The beautiful shells are made up of green, purple and blue hues and look stunning set in a variety of jewellery pieces.

Food glorious food You can't visit the capital without coming across some delicious , fresh and local food. From delicious waffles that will tingle your taste buds at the Little Waffle Shop on Courtenay Place, through to relaxed music and great food at the Library upstairs, you are sure to be spoiled for choice.

The Library Lounge Bar offers a relaxed and comfortable atmosphere where you can curl up and read a book or socialise with your friends.

If you are looking for a restaurant meal with a wide range of vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free and dairy-free options available, you don't need to look further than the local favourite - Chow which is based on both Tory Street and Woodward Street.

Hidden down the quiet Forresters Lane alleyway, just off Tory Street, you will find the bright and funky Motel Bar, another local favourite which is open at all times from early in the evening until well into the wee hours of the morning. The excellent spot to dance the night away!

The nation's hub As the capital city, Wellington is also home to many national collections including The Film Archive which was founded in 1981. NgÄ Taonga Sound and Vision is the operating name for the New Zealand Archive of Film, Television and Sound NgÄ Taonga WhitiÄ hua Me NgÄ Taonga KĹ?rero. As well as preservation facilities, the Wellington premises feature a 110-seat cinema, viewing and reference libraries, and a gallery that hosts regular moving image exhibitions which are special to the nation of New Zealand.

The main political hub is based in Thorndon, just on the outskirts of Wellington's CBD.

Best price (50% less than other camper parks) Central Wellington CBD location Large selection of room types Base private camper park close to ferry terminal %$6( :(//,1*721 Â&#x2021;ÂŹ &$0%5,'*( 7(55$&( Â&#x2021; )5((&$// Â&#x2021; ::: 67$<$7%$6( &20 Â&#x2021; $33 6725(

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wellington

FRESH ASIAN CUISINE

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Fresh Asian cuisine, in a relaxed modern environment. Vegan and vegetarian friendly with dair y and gluten free options.

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45 Tor y St

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7 Days Noon - Midnight 04 382 8585

Free Wifi / Corporate catering Large bookings welcome / Set menu options Takeaways available

facebook.com/chowwellington @chowwellington #chowgram pinterest.com/chowwellington @chowwellington

Upstairs, 53 Courtenay Place, Wellington Phone: 04 382 8593 Email: bookings@thelibrary.co.nz www.thelibrary.co.nz

www.chow.co.nz

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wellington

A visit to the capital wouldn’t be complete without a visit to New Zealand's beautifully refurbished Parliament Buildings on the corner of Lambton Quay and Molesworth Street. The complex is made up of three architecturally distinctive buildings including 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.

Old St Paul's hosts a variety of functions from rock concerts (including New Zealand favourites such as Dragon, Dave Dobbyn, and Holly Smith) to fashion shows. There is also a function centre and room for seated dinner functions.

Literary fans will enjoy Katherine Mansfield Birthplace at 25 Tinakori Road. The childhood home of New Zealand’s most famous author reveals background for the enjoyment and understanding of a large part of her writing. Also be sure to set aside some time for art and antique shopping at Tinakori Road village.

The nearby Wellington Botanic Garden features over 26 hectares of views, exotic forests, native bush and colourful floral displays and gardens. Visit the Duck Pond, Begonia House, award-winning Lady Norwood Rose Garden and the historic Bolton Street Memorial Park, where many of Wellington city's pioneers are buried. The gardens open daily from dawn until dusk and entry is free.

Whether you are planning on travelling through, or you plan to stay in Wellington for a while, exploring the capital city should be at the top of your list in 2015.

Boat Sheds along the waterfront - Courtesy of www.wellingtonnz.com

Discover Wairarapa’s unique experience New Zealand made Gifts & Jewellery Souvenirs direct from on site factory Factory tours during workdays Short information video

Ope 7 dayns

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.

54 Kent St, Carterton 06 379 4247 www.pauaworld.com

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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

Closest Motel and Campervan Park to the Interislander ferry terminal â&#x20AC;&#x201C; simple 5min drive north on State Highway 1 and take the Newlands motorway exit. (1 Newlands Road, Newlands)

refer to this advert to receive 10% discounted off the regular rate!

We have 27 powered campervan sites with full amenities, and 40 motel units. A licensed restaurant and plenty of free off street parking (great if you have boats, trailers or trucks).

Late check in is available upon request.

Call us between 7am and 10pm.

For Reservations Ph: 0800 422 748 1 Newlands Road, Newlands 6037 Wellington

www.capitalgateway.co.nz 49

WELLINGTON

sunset soaked eastern bays Discover a haven long known as "Wellington's playground by the sea" with bush walks, art galleries, boutiques and a balmy microclimate. Perfect for a cosy Autumn affair!

Dine in the sun soaked Eastern Bays, cosy up at a private waterfront cottage, and explore the coast by bike – all just 20 minutes across the harbour from Wellington CBD. Savour fine fare at beachfront cafes and restaurants dotted along the bays. Book in at Cobar and ask for a window table or stroll across to Chocolate Dayz café for their popular warm date scones.

The spectacular Pencarrow Coast and three lighthouses at the entrance to Wellington harbour includes New Zealand’s first, lit in 1859. It sits above the Parangahau lakes one of the most pristine freshwater environments in the North Island.

Hire a bike, kayak at Days Bay Boatshed and Pencarrow Bike Shed and cruise the bays or wander in to the hills up a lush bush trail.

Silence, broken only by bird calls in mature beech forest, makes it hard to think you’re only moments away from civilisation and you can test your arm span on the trunks of 400 year old rata trees.

Wake up to harbour views and catch a morning walk along the picturesque bays in one of many cosy cottages and bed and breakfast stays to choose from like Guthrie Cottage or Walnut Tree B&B. The East by West Ferry can take you to the weird and wonderful Matiu/Somes Island - once a quarantine and POW camp and now a nature reserve and home to tuatara, weta and the little blue penguin.

Try a Harbour Explorer tour of Wellington Harbour stopping over at Peter Jackson's home suburb and the iconic Petone Wharf - the start to the Rimutaka Cycle Trail.

There’s loads of great picnic spots to pull out the picnic hamper and relax for the whole day in the last place along Wellington Harbour to see the sun.

For more information visit HuttValleyNZ.com or the Hutt City i-site Visitor Centre for more great ways to escape this autumn.

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WELLINGTON

Orchestra Wellington has expanded its 2015 season to offer six subscription concerts (up from four just a few years ago).

Russian music dominates the season, which will feature all of Tchaikovsky’s symphonies as well as five great Russian piano concertos, played by Michael Houstoun.

Orchestra Wellington Music Director Marc Taddei calls Tchaikovsky’s symphonies “one of the most important and lasting monuments of the Romantic era”.

The orchestra will also present other influential works in the Russian canon, from Glinka’s Kamarinskaya to Stravinsky’s Scherzo a la Russe, that inform and reflect on Tchaikovsky’s achievement.

Two well-known stories also make up the orchestra’s Family Concerts in July. “Maui’s Fishhook” by Thomas Goss tells how Maui fished up the North Island. Then the musical storybook turns to Roald Dahl, with four poems from “Dirty Beasts” adapted by composer Benjamin Wallfisch.

The Subscription Series opens in April and to bring the season to a flamboyant start the Orchestra will open with Kamarinskaya, a work that Tchaikovsky called “the acorn from which the oak of Russian music grew”.

The first of the SIX-BY-ONE pieces, Tchaikovsky’s first symphony, “Winter Daydreams” sees him assuming the mantel of Glinka but also grappling with the heritage of Germanic composers. This work results in an authentic “Russian” symphony with all of his brilliant trademarks.

Rachmaninov’s third piano concerto is so well known and loved it almost needs no introduction! It is one of the most challenging works in the repertoire and it demands a virtuoso of the highest calibre. Enter stage right, Michael Houstoun…

KAMARINSKAYA

The Wellington Orchestra at its best

Glinka Kamarinskaya Rachmaninov Piano Concerto No. 3 Tchaikovsky Symphony No. 1 Michael Houstoun Piano Marc Taddei Conductor Saturday 18 April, 7:30pm Michael Fowler Centre, Wellington Sunday 19 April 2015, 4pm Masterton Town Hall TICKETS: TICKETEK.CO.NZ

ARTIST SPONSOR

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nelson

NELSON

Visit the centre of new zealand Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s all about the lifestyle in Nelson Tasman! This rich and diverse region is home to passionate people who love nothing more than sharing the fruits of their labours with visitors.

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Courtesy of Kaiteriteri Recreation Reserve Board

nelson tasman

HANDMADE IN NEW ZEALAND

Disappear & Relax

Bed & Breakfast package.

Stay in a one bedroom studio, only $169 per night including breakfast, minimum two night stay applies.

FREE Wifi*

World renowned art glass and glass jewellery by glass artists Ola & Marie Hรถglund.

Creators of New Zealand art glass since 1982.

The Monaco Resort provides all the comforts you could wish for The Monaco Kitchen, health & beauty spa, pool, gym, boutique jeweller, hairdressing salon and conference facilities.

6 Point Road, Monaco, Nelson. Ph 03 547 8233

Visit Hรถglund Glassblowing Studio.

52 Lansdowne Road, Richmond, NELSON Ph: 03 544 6500 hotel@monacoresort.co.nz

www.monacoresort.co.nz

www.hoglundartglass.com

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

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NELSON tasman

Enjoy an authentic meal where your dish will be prepared from scratch to suit your unique palate.

From vegan to gluten free and everything in between - look no further than Chokdee Thai Cuisine, conveniently located in Nelson and Motueka.

89 Hardy St, Nelson / P: 03 539 0282 109 High St, Motueka / P: 03 528 0318

www.chokdee.co.nz

Wakatu Lodge, Nelson, provides private rooms with shared kitchen and bathroom facilities. Situated close to the hospital, 5 minutes drive from town, twenty minute walk. Suited to budget conscious travellers; $49.00 single, $65.00 twin or double. Medium and longer term rates from $170.00 per week.

his ion t Ment eceive r d n ad a hour EE 24 ata a FR d ited m li un net inter r. he vouc

125-127 Waimea Rd, Nelson M: 0272134724 P: 03 5458444

www.wakatulodge.co.nz 54

Kayaking with Orca Photo Ian Trafford. Courtesy of Tourism New Zealand

Ask a local what they love about Nelson Tasman and the answer is likely to be “the lifestyle”! Three national parks all within 90 minutes drive of Nelson city, stunning landscapes and sunny days provide a fitting backdrop and the inspiration to those who live, work, create and play here. Artisan food, boutique wine and craft beer; fresh air, adrenaline and adventure, art, craft and design…these are the things that make up the rich tapestry of life in Nelson that is there for everyone to enjoy.

Nelson’s warm days and cool nights are ideal for growing many different grape varieties, but it is for Aromatics that the region really excels. There are 25 boutique wineries peppered around the region, and although some close their cellar doors after Easter to concentrate on winemaking, over a dozen are open year round, many with cafes and restaurants.

Another tipple for which Nelson Tasman is recognised is craft beer. With 11 breweries this is the only region in New Zealand with a climate suited to hop growing. Craft beers can be enjoyed at many pubs including the Moutere Inn, The Free House, McCashins Brewery and the Mussel Inn in Golden Bay. With hundreds of artists and craftspeople, creativity is alive and flourishing in the region.

Pick up a copy of the beautifully produced Nelson Arts Guide which profiles the artists, many of whom welcome visitors to their studios. Browse the colourful myriad of handmade art, crafts, pottery and jewellery at Nelson’s Saturday market. Nibble on tasty treats or enjoy a locally roasted coffee, freshly squeezed juice or fresh fruit ice cream. For more artisan action, pay a visit to Morrison Square on Wednesdays when this city, square filled with clothing stores, boutiques and restaurants transforms into a farmers market with delicious home-grown produce and products.

Creativity reaches dizzying new heights at the World of Wearable Art Museum where wearable garments are works of art in themselves, crafted in intricate detail from unusual materials such as tea bags and cottonbuds! Adjoining the museum is the Collectible Cars Museum, a private collection of 100 classic cars in pristine condition.

For an injection of adrenaline, soar at up to 100km/h over the treetops on Happy Valley Adventures’ 1.6 km skywire ride…then enjoy the thrill all over again – going backwards.

Happy Valley adventures is Nelson's Adventure play-ground which offers visitors to the region a range of unique adventures. Whether you experience the world's longest flying fox or enjoy a day at the paintball arena - you will truly enjoy the opportunity to experience the atmosphere of a working NZ farm and the pristine native bush above Nelson's beautiful Cable Bay. Alternatively, you might like to skydive from 16,500 feet above the Abel Tasman with Skydive Abel Tasman or find whitewater thrills in Murchison by canoe, kayak, jet boat or raft.

To fully appreciate the region’s beautiful landscapes, a trip to New Zealand’s smallest and

WELLINGTON

only coastal national park, the Abel Tasman should be at the top of any visitors’ ‘to do’ list. Its accessibility to people of all ages means the golden sands, native bush and turquoise waters can be appreciated by kayak, water taxi, or on foot. Join a day trip with Wilsons Abel Tasman and enjoy a scenic Vista cruise up the coast with the options to add in walking or kayaking for a chance to discover some of the less visited bays and beaches. If time is no issue the Abel Tasman can be walked over 3 -5 days – an unforgettable experience - with accommodation options ranging from DOC campsites and huts next to the beach to a floating backpackers or luxury lodges.

For the fit and active the stunning landscapes of the region’s other national parks can be enjoyed on a multi-day walk or hike.

The alpine environment of the Nelson Lakes National Park offers majestic mountains and lakeside walks, while the diverse landscape

of the Kahurangi National Park gradually unfolds along the Heaphy Track which can also be tackled by mountain-bike from 1 May – 30 September.

The exposed and remote Farewell Spit at the north of Golden Bay is New Zealand’s longest sandspit and home to thousands of migratory wading birds from September to April. A designated nature reserve, its sand dunes can only be explored with a licensed tour operator by four wheel drive vehicle. Examine exposed fossils in the rocks at Fossil Point, climb to the top of the old lighthouse, take in spectacular clifftop views and spy on the colonies of ganets and resident fur seals.

Be sure to take time to relax, explore and enjoy the lifestyle that Nelson Tasman is famous for! You might never want to leave…

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WELLINGTON

Catch. Smoke. Feast!

At Anatoki Salmon, everyone can savour the fresh flavour of their catch, straight from the pristine clarity of one of New Zealand’s steepest rivers - the mythical Anatoki.

Situated on the banks of the Anatoki River with a tranquil backdrop of native bush, you are welcome to relax and enjoy the unique experience of catching your own freshwater salmon, no matter how much experience you have. Entry is free as well as the use of fishing rods and tackle.

Catch your own prime freshwater Chinook salmon, then watch as it

is cleaned and prepared into fillets or steaks. You can also choose to get it hot-smoked and served to you alongside your choice of delicious accompaniments including zesty coleslaw, hot garlic bread and delicious refreshments.

If you would prefer to take your freshly caught fish home, Anatoki will vacuum pack your catch of the day and put it on ice. The memories of a fabulous day fishing will come back when you take the first bite!

If fishing isn’t really your thing, you may also choose to sit back, relax and enjoy a glass of high quality wine, sip a coffee and select from Anatoki Salmon’s fully-licensed café menu.

For more information on the fishing experience of a lifetime, visit www.anatokisalmon.co.nz.

BOUTIQUE HOTEL ACCOMMODATION & RESTAURANT IN GOLDEN BAY

PERFECTLY POSITIONED

SPECIAL RATES Valid 1 April to 30 September 2015 Subject to availability. Per night for 2 people inc GST.

Close to beaches and National Parks.

Beside Cycle Trail.

Walk to Vineyards, arts and crafts.

15 minutes to Nelson and airport.

Golden Bay only 1 hour drive.

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

13 spacious comfortable self-catering studio, one & two bedroom units.

Accessible, executive and spa bath options.

Most rooms have scenic outlooks from their sun drenched patio or balcony over the adjoining park to the ranges of the Kahurangi Park.

Valid 1 April to 30 September 2015 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

42 Gladstone Road, Richmond, Nelson Freephone: 0800 161 212 P: 03 544 2264 E: info@parksidemotel.co.nz

www.parksidemotel.co.nz 56

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 cocktail lounge on-site.

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

www.delorenzos.co.nz

www.ratanuilodge.com

NELSON tasman

WILSONS ABEL TASMAN NATIONAL PARK Interislander and KIWIRAIL Discounts Walking-Kayaking-Boats-Beachfront Lodges: It’s so easy to create your ideal holiday in New Zealand’s finest coastal National Park.

Browse our website www.AbelTasman.co.nz then book online or call our friendly reservations team for helpful advice. Let us know how much relaxation or adventure you would like and we will book the trip to suit you.

Travel into the Park with speed, style and comfort aboard our Vista Cruise. With cafe, bar and the best views from comfortable seating around tables on upper and lower decks, stay onboard or choose a beach stop with walking options from 10 minutes to 6 hours.

Book a guided sea kayaking day trip to explore the best kayaking territory in the heart of the park, or take a half-day paddle to famous “Split Apple Rock”.

Three Vista Cruise departures every day from Kaiteriteri allow you to spend a full day or just a few hours in the Park.

For our low season timetable, operating from April 19, the Vista Cruise makes the most of winter sunshine hours with one trip per day along the spectacular coast, departing from

10% discount

Kaiteriteri at 9.30 am, returning at 4:10 pm. This allows a full range of walking, sea kayaking and beach stop options.

We can arrange coach transfers to Kaiteriteri. Travel into the Park each day for as little as $49 per day (3-Day Explorer Pass).

For a real treat, take a three or five-day overnight break within the boundaries of the National Park staying at Wilsons Abel Tasman’s beachfront lodges: Torrent Bay Lodge and Meadowbank Homestead in Awaroa.

Get your 10% discount on any trip with the promotion code: ONBOARD

Book online now at www.abeltasman. co.nz or call 0800 ABEL TAS (0800 223 582).

From the sea to the sky

Abel Tasman… awesome … in autumn WIN back, up to $1,000 of your autumn holiday, when booking through Motueka i-SITE! (*Terms and Conditions apply)

• Spectacular scenery • Settled weather • Crystal turquoise waters • Wildlife encounters • Award-winning cuisine, craft breweries and wineries • Galleries and markets • Sacred sites

It’s All Here… All year…

P: +64 3 528 6543 / E: info@motuekaisite.co.nz / 20 Wallace St, Motueka

www.motuekaisite.co.nz

Motueka * Email us: info@motuekaisite.co.nz for details and to use our FREE and friendly booking service. All bookings to be completed and holidays taken, by May 31st 2015, to be eligible for the promotion

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STUNNING Kaiteriteri

IMAGE Courtesy of Kaiteriteri Recreation Reserve Board

There is something about Kaiteriteri that entices people back to one of the finest beaches New Zealand has to offer.

Aside from the unique golden sands and clear blue-green water, the idyllic setting on the doorstep of the picturesque Abel Tasman National Park has a lot to offer. Tourists and families staying at the holiday camp enjoy four-star accommodation and trampers are often in awe of the region’s world-famous walking tracks winding their way through 225 square kilometres of lush green bush and granite cliffs bordering one of New Zealand’s most stunning coastlines.

The Kaiteriteri camp lives up to its four-star rating with over 400 generous sized sites, 17 cabins and amenities often rated as some of the cleanest in the country by seasoned campers.

Visitors enjoy fine dining and takeaways adjacent to the campsite and with a store offering groceries and beverages next to the camp office visitors take advantage of everything the beach has to offer without having to leave the beach for supplies. Many campers return to the holiday park with some families booking the same plot for many years, a true testament to the friendly atmosphere the campground is renowned for all year round. The ratio of amenities to campers even at full occupancy is more than

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adequate and often features in the feedback camp management receive.

Next to the secure playground, the mini-golf on the Kaiteriteri reserve is a local icon and has steady streams of golfers playing year round.

Kaiteriteri is renowned for its wide variety of activities on offer.

Aside from swimming in New Zealand’s most consistent region for recorded sunshine hours, boating, kayaking and mountain biking have become synonymous with the region.

Regular ferries and sea taxis take passengers to the many bays neighbouring the beach. Popular amongst tourists are the seal, bird and dolphin sightseeing tours along with coffee and cruise excursions.

Sea limousines take wedding parties to secluded lagoons and coves along the 50km stretch of coastline, or fishing and diving groups to the rich fishing grounds within the Tasman Bay. Water sports are abundant in the Kaiteriteri Bay with multiple vendors kept busy during the summer season with paddle boarding, water skiing and wake boarding high on everyone’s to-do list.

Kaiteriteri Beach lives up to its reputation as one of the most popular holiday destinations in the South Island with Kiwis and international visitors returning frequently and enjoying a truly iconic New Zealand experience.

MARLBOROUGH

Have a brilliant autumn in Marlborough Charge your camera and get ready for a brilliant holiday â&#x20AC;&#x201C; autumn in Marlborough is simply the best!

Walking the Queen Charlotte Track Photo Mike Heydon. Courtesy of Tourism NZ

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MARLBOROUGH

Enjoying Green Lipped Mussels - Marlborough Photo Gareth Eyres. Courtesy Of Tourism Nz

The pristine water in the Sounds makes it a brilliant environment for New Zealand’s aquaculture industry, and is home to King salmon, Greenshell™ mussels, oysters, clams, scallops, crayfish, and paua (abalone).

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The region is abuzz throughout the season, with the annual wine Vintage – harvesting and processing the grapes for New Zealand’s favourite wines – in full swing.

Marlborough is the largest and most famous wine region in New Zealand, with more than 140 wineries and 37 cellar doors to explore, from large well-known brands to small boutique wineries.

The region’s vineyards stretch over a staggering 20,000 hectares – approximately 10,000 times the size of the Melbourne Cricket Ground Arena.

Seventy five percent of New Zealand’s wine is produced here.

Along with being the undisputed home of sauvignon blanc, Marlborough is also renowned for producing brilliant pinot noir, chardonnay, methode traditionelle bubbly, and aromatics. You can self-drive or take a guided tour around the region’s famous Wine Trail, and taste the region’s wines beside the vines they came from.

Try your favourites along with new blends and varietals – with some wines only available to buy via the cellar door.

Wind down the pace and cycle around the cellar doors and vineyards on your bike, or hire one for a guided/unguided tour.

For the ultimate wine and food match, treat yourself to lunch at a winery – with a brilliant variety of food on offer, from delicious platters, lunch under the trees and award-winning lunch venues, through to Michelin-experienced fine dining.

Marlborough sits at the top of New Zealand’s South Island, and boasts 20% of New Zealand’s coastline – home to dolphins, seals, fish, and birdlife. The Marlborough Sounds are a maze of sunken river valleys, home to secluded lodges, B&Bs and holiday homes, and provide the opportunity for great escapes and adventures on, in, and around the water.

According to legend, the Marlborough Sounds were formed when Kupe, a great Māori warrior, was chasing a giant octopus and finally caught it in Cook Strait, where it formed the waterways and headlands of the Marlborough Sounds. Today you don’t have to be a seafaring warrior or a yacht owner to enjoy this marine playground. Water taxis, cruise boat companies and outdoor adventure specialists offer a range of activities for both the young and the young at heart.

The pristine water in the Sounds makes it a brilliant environment for New Zealand’s aquaculture industry, and is home to King salmon, Greenshell™ mussels, oysters, clams, scallops, crayfish, and paua (abalone). Autumn is a fantastic time for

thorndon

MARLBOROUGH

Cruising the Marlborough Sounds Photo Rob Suisted Courtesy of Tourism NZ

recreational fishing - boasting calm, warm weather, and plenty of quiet bays to spend the day catching your night’s meal.

Alongside fresh seafood, Marlborough is a gourmet heaven.

The region boasts some of New Zealand’s top honey and olive oil producers, along with pine nuts, garlic, saffron, sea salt, walnuts, hazelnuts, cherries, asparagus, figs, wild game and more. A brilliant range of cafes and restaurants throughout the region bring these together to tempt your tastebuds.

Meet the growers behind some of the region’s brilliant produce at the Marlborough Farmer’s Market every Sunday morning, and stroll around stalls at the Marlborough Artisan Market every Saturday in the Blenheim CBD, with handicrafts, woodwork, pottery, soaps, lavender products, oils and wines available alongside fresh fruit and vegetables.

Popular walking and mountainbiking tracks stretch throughout the Marlborough Sounds. The 70km Queen Charlotte Track is one of the most popular, with half-day and multi-day walking and

mountain biking options, and is one of New Zealand’s Great Rides.

With accommodation along the track ranging from campsites to luxury lodges, you can choose from a brilliant range of options.

The track is suitable for walkers of all ages with a moderate level of fitness. Freedom and guided walking options are available, both offering bag transfers to your accommodation each day.

Marlborough is packed with events this autumn. The annual Havelock Mussel Festival is a great day out for the family, this year featuring Benny Tipene and Chelsea Winter. Classic Fighters at Omaka Airfield this Easter is Australasia’s largest air show this year, featuring more than 100 aircraft dating from pre-WW1 to modern day over the three-day event.

If you’re feeling active, join the South Island’s largest recreational cycling event, the Forrest GrapeRide (March) for a brilliant ride through some of Marlborough’s stunning scenery, or the Saint Clair Vineyard Half Marathon (May) for a stunning scenic run/ walk through some of the region’s vineyards.

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Brereton Blue Pearls The original home of Blue Pearls

Brereton Blue Pearls The original home of Blue Pearls

Unique to New Zealand and grown locally in Marlborough, our rare andtoexclusive Blue Pearls are Unique New Zealand and grown locally in Marlborough, our hand-set to the highest rare and exclusive Blue are standard on-site byPearls professional hand-set toin the highest Jewellers 18ct Gold and standard on-site by professional Silver.

Jewellers Sterling in 18ct Gold and Sterling Silver.

Unknown to most travellers, nestled next to the navigation beacons which guid vessels entering Marlborough Sounds the Port of Picton liesguide the only far Unknown to most the travellers, nestled next to theand navigation beacons which all the world Sounds to produce Brereton Blue Pearls. vessels entering the Marlborough and the Port of Picton lies the only farm in the world to produce Brereton Blue Pearls.

Formerly known as an Akaroa Blue Pearl, the Brereton Blue Pearl has over 30 yea Formerlyexperience known as an Akaroa Blue Pearl, the Brereton Blue has over 30and yearsisof industry and knowledge to produce thePearl highest lustre, one o industry experience and knowledge to produce the highest lustre, and is one of the rarest cultured pearls in the world. rarest cultured pearls in the world.

To qualityaaBrereton Brereton Pearl takes a minimum ofyears threebefore yearsit before Toensure ensure quality Pearl takes a minimum of three can be it can harvested, meticulously graded then hand-set the team familyinteam in their water harvested, meticulously graded then hand-set by theby family their waterfront Picton workshop.

Picton workshop.

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

- Paua atchecked 1.5 years old and a pearl being

- Pearl farm on Arapawa Island.

checked before harvest.

- Pearl farm on Arapawa Island.

Every pearl is unique and identified by itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;sEvery own code orisRFID tag, which can be pearl unique and identified by scanned by a smartphone to ensure itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s code or tag, which can be youown are buying anRFID original Brereton scanned by not a smartphone piece, and an imitation. to ensure

you are buying an original Brereton

We also do jewellery restoration and piece, and not an imitation. manufacturing, including wedding and rings, onrestoration site.

Weengagement also do jewellery and

manufacturing, including wedding Our website and waterfront Picton store are currently theand only places in the world you can buy these stunning gems. engagement rings, on site.

Our2website the only pla L o n dand o nwaterfront Q u a y , Picton P i c tstore o n are 7 2currently 20 inPthe world you can buy these stunning gems. h/Fax: (03) 5737 351

wo w nw . Q pe 2 Lond u aar yl s, . kPi iwci t o n 7 2 2 0 Ph/Fax: (03) 5737 351

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MARLBOROUGH

Events this AUTUMN

Havelock Mussel Festival Saturday 14 March

An event for the whole family celebrating Havelock’s famous seafood, the Greenshell™ Mussel, with entertainment this year including Benny Tipene and Chelsea Winter.

Forrest GrapeRide

Saturday 28 March

Whites Bay, Marlborough Photos Camilla Stoddart - Courtesy of Tourism NZ

The award winning Forrest GrapeRide is the largest and most popular cycling event in the South Island.

Set in the heart of Marlborough, it starts and finishes at Forrest Wines, with courses ranging from the 42km ‘Taster’ through to the 202km ‘Magnum’.

Classic Fighters Omaka Airshow

3-5 April

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

An action-packed weekend of aerial and ground displays, held over three days every second Easter. The theme for 2015, ANZAC Pioneers, allows visitors to join in a celebration of the ANZAC tradition of brotherhood between two countries during times of conflict and in times of peace, while also exploring some of the interesting pioneering feats in aviation history.

Saint Clair Vineyard Half Marathon 9 May

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.

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

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A unique off-road journey through picturesque Marlborough vineyards. Run or walk through 21 vineyards privately owned by producers such as Cloudy Bay, Wairau River and Saint Clair Family Estate. The views from the course are stunning; with the Richmond Ranges in the background, the vines in their autumn colours and the panoramic views beside the Wairau River.

Autumn in Marlborough is Brilliant every day. For more information on Marlborough or to book your next holiday, visit MarlboroughNZ.com

MARLBOROUGH WINE

MARLBOROUGH WINE When you think of wine and rambling country roads, you probably picture leisurely bike rides and sumptuous picnics.

Romantic picnic, Marlborough Photo Mike Heydon, Courtesy of Tourism NZ

THE NEW

ASB TH EATRE M ARLBORO U G H

Discover the spirit of the Marlborough Sounds.

• Waterfront Café/restaurant • Accommodation with water views • Day trips from $45.00 plus Dinner Cruise options • Discover native birds, geckos and eels • Beach, hammocks, flying fox, free kayaks Freephone: 0800 562 462 E: enquiries@lochmaralodge.co.nz

• Art shop and art trail to explore • Access to the Queen Charlotte Track • Open fire in the restaurant on cool evenings • Indulge in our luxurious baths for two

www.lochmara.co.nz

O PE N FO R BUS I N ESS I N 20 1 6

Call today to find out more about bringing your conference to our new facility in Marlborough.

T: +64 3 520 8558 E: gm@mctt.co.nz www.mctt.co.nz

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MARLBOROUGH WINE

Marlborough’s Premier Bike Touring Company Eco friendly, cost effective and possibly the most fun you’ll ever have on a bike!

Don’t waste precious time biking 8 miles (12kms) out from Blenheim or risk getting back into your car after a day of tasting.

We offer FREE pickup & drop off to/from Blenheim & Renwick.

Choice of 4 daily self-guided tours, individually tailored to you whether you are by yourself, a couple or a group.

10am, 11am, 12 Noon & 1pm Backup Service All inclusive: $45.00 p/p Cruiser tandem only $80.00

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

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

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Wine Tours by Bike, Marlborough's premier vineyard bike tour company, is located in Renwick, the heart of the Marlborough Wine Region which has the greatest concentration of cellar doors in the country.

Leave your cares behind as you make your way to Hillsfield House to begin your cycling adventure. Alternatively, you can be picked up from your local accommodation and taken on a personalised tour that caters to your unique abilities and needs.

Your friendly and experienced guides will show you their personal favourite routes, scenic spots, vineyards, wineries, vineyard restaurants and cafes, arts and crafts and olive oils.

The fully inclusive package includes a base in the vineyards (no need to cycle the 20km round trip from Blenheim to Renwick before you reach a winery), a personalised tour route and map with recommendations for wine tasting and dining and your choice of well maintained bicycles, helmets, bottled water and four bottle wine carriers to hold those all important purchases.

Choose between a variety of different guided tours ranging from early starts and late drop offs to short afternoon tours. With a complimentary pick up and drop off service, you are in safe and experience hands with Wine Tours by Bike. To find out more, visit www.winetoursbybike.co.nz

Artisan, boutique Wine Owned by Edel Everling, a fifth generation winemaker from Ruedesheim, Rheingau, Germany and Warwick Foley from Marlborough, Johanneshof Cellars produces wines from hand-harvested grapes only, sourced from their vineyard and growers in Marlborough on New Zealand’s South Island.

Warwick and Edel make all wines on site, combining the traditions of the art of winemaking with modern technology. Their principals are to crop at a very low level and to harvest the grapes by hand to enhance fruit quality and flavours, with as little interference as possible with vines and wine.

Their adoration for Europe’s century old wine culture led them to establish New Zealand’s first underground rock cellar tunneled into solid sandstone, 50 metres long and 20 metres deep underground. The cool, stable temperature and high natural humidity of this unique cellar provide ideal storage conditions to allow the maturation of wines in French Barriques and German wine barrels.

Johanneshof Cellars is well known for its four aromatic varieties, Pinot Gris, Gewürztraminer, Riesling and Sauvignon Blanc. All have won numerous Gold medals and Trophies, including medals and Champion wines in three of the world’s most respected Wine Competitions in London.

KAIKOURA

kaikoura

OH I DO LOVE TO BE BESIDE THE SEASIDE Kaikoura is renowned for its abundance of marine activities and that includes getting out to catch your dinner.

Roadside Crayfish, Kaikoura Photo Chris Sisarich, Courtesy of Tourism New Zealand

Join one of the local fishing tours with a guide to help you out if it is your first time.

Experience scuba diving with the local dive operator, some of the best in the country, kayak out and enjoy the natural beauty of the Peninsula or get out on some of the best rated surfing waves this country has to offer.

A bird's eye view If you want to get a bird’s eye view of Kaikoura's beautiful township and see some of the amazing Kaikoura Ranges which are often dusted in snow, you can see it all from the air. Take controls of a small aircraft with the local aero club with no experience needed! During this life-changing flight you will get to see Mount Fyffe at 1602m, through to the rocky peninsula and seaside township.

For those more comfortable on terra firma, you won’t miss out. Kaikoura has an excellent range of activities from four wheel motor biking, horse trekking, and wine tasting or enjoy some genuine Māori hospitality. Take in the local historical and scenic sights and even the stunning Māori Leap Cave. It is all here waiting for you.

Plunder the Pacific Kaikoura is the crayfish / lobster capital of New Zealand. To taste the freshest ‘catch of the day’, try the Kaikoura Seafood BBQ - a beachside shack that feeds hordes of hungry visitors to the nearby seal colony.

Locally-sourced crayfish are sold in whole or half portions, grilled to order, and served on rice with salad or bread. The little restaurant also serves homemade seafood chowder, and other shellfish and fish.

Ice-capped mountains Walking the shore or getting in amongst the native bush, you could enjoy a leisurely thirty minute stroll or take a half day or full day option. That big mountain range which greets you on arrival has a popular walk to a hut for an overnight option. There is something available for all abilities and fitness levels.

Relax and unwind, adventure time, in the air, or on the sea, walking the shores or climbing the mountains. You will find Kaikoura is just the spot to enjoy an activity or two to suit you!

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kaikoura

A dramatic landscape where people reaped the rewards of a rich coastal environment.

History

Fyffe House

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Kaikoura is not all about nature, beaches and amazing marine life. There is also some fascinating historical treasures to be found including remnants of the MÄ ori and European settlement of the area.

Kaikoura's whaling history still lingers in the air and you can learn more about the bloody past by visiting the Kaikoura Museum and historic Fyffe House.

Alternatively, if you are interested in learning more about the local culture and traditions, you can take a tour to learn more about Kaikoura's MÄ ori history and culture with Kaikoura MÄ ori guides.

Wonderful local products can be found in several galleries in and around the town, including gold gilding, pottery, paintings and prints, jewellery, wood turning, knitted garments and much more.

You can also join the local art trail, which begins at the visitors centre, where you can see for yourself the artists at work in their own environment.

Whatever you choose to do, you are sure to have a 'whale of a time' while in the beautiful town of Kaikoura. Stop by soon, the friendly locals look forward to welcoming you!

KAIKOURA

KAIKOURA KAYAKS AUTUMN MARINE LIFE ENCOUNTERS. kaikoura

Autumn 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 and Blue Penguins.

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 marine life, go kayak fishing, hire your own boat or up skill your 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. Stay warm and dry in your enclosed sea kayak with the Kokatat Paddle Jacket, GORE-TEX dry pants and

wetsuit bootys that they provide over the cooler months.

For the nature lovers, the curious New Zealand Fur Seals, Dusky Dolphins and Blue Penguins are only a few paddle strokes away.

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 experience with little effort and a whole lot of good fun - suitable for all ages and abilities, operating year round. Families most welcome.

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

New Zealand’s Ultimate Year Round Marine Experience

Freephone 0800 655 121

www.whalewatch.co.nz 69

HANMER SPRINGS

Relax in Hanmer Springs On the go visitors can ski down awe-inspiring slopes, play golf on world-class courses, take to the water (swimming, surfing, windsurfing, jet-boating or whitewater rafting) or pedal along stunning cycle trails then relax with winning wines at beautiful vineyards, wander outstanding gardens or soak cares away in an alpine spa.

Hanmer Springs 90 minutes north of Christchurch airport, Hanmer Springs is New Zealandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s premier alpine spa destination, popular with local and international visitors alike.

Originally built around natural hot springs in the town centre, Hanmer Springs has grown into a year-round resort offering funfilled activities for visitors of all ages and styles - from family fun to adventure thrills, or romantic getaways.

Hanmerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s outdoor activities include mountain biking trails, subalpine hiking, and jet boating down the Waiau Gorge.

The thermal pools, which underwent major redevelopment in 2010, are an impressive complex of pools and experiences including rock and sulphur pools, and a family activity area complete with water slides. Next-door but away from poolside crowds, Hanmer Springs Spa offers a luxury spa experience for relaxation, and massage therapies.

AccomModation Over the summer holidays, Hanmer Springs is pumping with life and it makes sense to find a comfortable accommodation option where you can rest, relax and wake up refreshed for another action-packed day.

The St James Premium Accommodation Hanmer Springs has been voted fifth best in Asia and Oceania by Booking.com.

The St James, which opened three years ago, is fast building a world class reputation, as one of three finalists in the 2013 AA Supreme Host Award and currently rating at 99 percent from guest reviews on Trip Advisor.

Architecturally designed, with elegantly furnished suites, The St James is the perfect spot to relax after an action-packed day at the beautiful Hanmer Springs region.

For more information visit hanmersprings.co.nz

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AKAROA

Akaroa: the Kiwi French connection Half a world away from its origins and close to Christchurch - a city with a distinctly English heritage - many visitors to New Zealand are fascinated to find a little bit of France occupying an ancient southern hemisphere volcano.

Akaroa - a harbour settlement on Canterbury’s Banks Peninsula - is a popular tourist destination, thanks to a spectacular coastal location and a touch of Gallic ‘je ne sais quoi’.

The little town, on the rim of an old volcano that provides a natural sheltered harbour on the peninsula, is the region's oldest, and a one-time French colony that played a memorable role in New Zealand history.

French connection In the 1830s, while New Zealand was still in its infancy, Akaroa or ‘long harbour', was a haven for European whalers keen to exploit plentiful marine life around the peninsula.

French whaling captain Jean Langlois, from Le Havre, was so enamoured with Akaroa’s beauty that he negotiated its purchase from local Māori chiefs in 1838, then returned to France to promote establishment of a French colony.

In 1840, with the support of French King Louis-Phillipe, a French warship set sail for New Zealand accompanying the transportation of 80 French colonists destined to found a new French territory to be called Port Louis-Phillipe at Akaroa.

However, on arrival in New Zealand the French discovered that they'd been beaten to the post by the British who had secured sovereignty of the entire country two months earlier.

Akaroa Harbour - Courtesy Of Wikimedia Commons

The new French arrivals also discovered that Langlois' deal with local Māori had not been finalised but, after negotiations with the British and local Māori, the colonists were allowed to stay in Akaroa.

French love affair Today, Akaroa’s French love affair continues through the names of local families and streets, its heritage architecture and cuisine including wines produced from vines transported to New Zealand by the French colonists - and the little museum that tells their story.

Tourism is Akaroa's major economic force. Swimming with dolphins, cruising on the volcanic harbour, swimming at the beautiful beaches or tasting local wine and farmed salmon are some of Akaroa’s modern-day pleasures. www.newzealand.com

Akaroa: Home of the Original Blue Pearl

Blue Pearl Gallery Main Wharf, Akaroa 7250, New Zealand P: 03 304 7262 E: pearls@nzbluepearls.co.nz www.nzbluepearls.co.nz

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CANTERBURY

Canterbury Trails Dominated by New Zealand’s highest mountain, Aoraki Mt Cook (3,754m), and surrounded by the Southern Alps, a chain of mountains bigger than its European namesake - Canterbury is a place of vast spectacular landscapes offering diverse outdoor nature pursuits and thrilling adventures.

Hot air balloon over the Canterbury plains Courtesy of Christchurch and Canterbury Tourism

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 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 HANMER SPRINGS Shop 5 30 Cnr Conical Hill & Chisholm Ave Ph: 03 315 7616 KAIKOURA 17 Beach Road, Kaikoura Ph: 03 319 6844

www.corianders.co.nz 72

Ashburton has a strong aviation history, being a training base (No 2EFTS) in World War 2 when there were 50 Tiger Moths based here.There are over 20 aircraft on display in the two Museum Buildings plus a workshop. We have probably the largest collection of “Classic” Jets in NZ including a Falklands Vet GR3 Harrier Jump Jet. The Museum is located at the Ashburton Airfield, Seafield Road, Ashburton

Opening Hours: 1pm to 3pm Daily Wed & Sat 10am to 3pm

Phone: 03 308 2014

www.aviationmuseum.co.nz

CANTERBURY

Couple over looking the Canterbury Plains from Mount Hutt Photo courtesy of Christchurch and Canterbury Tourism

Cyclists on the Rangitata diversion race Photo courtesy of Christchurch and Canterbury Tourism

Christchurch re-imagined

Astro-tourism in the Mackenzie Basin

Christchurch is New Zealand’s oldest and the South Island’s biggest city. Once renowned for its neo-Gothic architecture, the city’s built heritage was significantly damaged in the February 2011 earthquake. Now the ‘garden city’ – hailed by Lonely Planet as one of the top places in the world to visit in 2014 – is on the way to transforming into a modern and creative city hub filled with retrospective art, pop-up container centres, innovative bars and restaurants and the world-first cardboard cathedral.

The strength of the ongoing scientific research programme and the growth of astro-tourism in the region were prime motivators in the proposal to establish a dark sky reserve in the Mackenzie Basin.

Tekapo’s Earth and Sky Ltd, which works closely with the University of Canterbury and Mt John, runs several day and night tours at the observatory. Experienced guides take visitors through an introduction and exploration of the night sky via hands-on experience of telescopes, astro-photography and the summit-top cafe.

Ashburton Travel down the coast to Ashburton, which has a strong aviation history, being a training base in World War Two. While you are in the region, the Ashburton Aviation Museum is well worth a visit.

Situated at the Ashburton Airport, there are over 20 aircraft on display in the two museum buildings and more in the work shop. These include the Devon, Vampire FB5, Harvard, Porterfield, Airtruk, Benson Gyro Glider, Weihe Glider, Hughes Helicopter, Olympia, Flying Flea, Harrier GR3, Canberra B2 Bomber Cockpit.

F8 - Meteor, Zlin, DC3, Vampire T11, Link Trainer, Slingsby T31, Bergfalke, Cropmaster and Tiger Moth.

The Museum is also home to the Southern DC3 Trusts Historic Airliner ZK AMY with a recent aquisition of a Thompson Refueller - one of only nine on display worldwide.

www.newzealand.com LAKE TEKAPO

EARTH & SKY O B S E R VAT O R Y

TOURS

”Window to the Universe”

Geraldine Enjoy being spoiled by the Barker family and partake in some true southern hospitality with a variety of fruit syrups, chutneys, jams, jellies and savoury sauces to take home with you or enjoy along the way.

After 45 years, Barker’s of Geraldine is still nestled at the foot of the Southern Alps on a corner of the family farm. The farm sits in the lea of the Four Peaks mountain range, beside the Te Moana River, surrounded by rolling pastures.

Barker’s supports the local community employing around 150 local people, and always buys local produce whenever possible.

Lake Tekapo Lake Tekapo is the site of New Zealand’s premier scientific astronomy observatory, Mt John Observatory. The observatory site was chosen in 1963 for the clarity and darkness of the night sky after three years of site testing.

Mt John is operated by the University of Canterbury and the on-site team includes astronomers from Japan’s Nagoya University.

The USA and Germany have also invested in Mt John facilities.

EARTH AND SKY OBSERVATORIES HOME OF THE AORAKI-MACKENZIE INTERNATIONAL DARK SKY RESERVE 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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west coast

MAKING TRACKS ON THE WILD WEST COAST

By CHRIS BIRT Heli bike Reefton Courtesy of West Coast Tourism

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west coast

It’s a question that has occupied the minds of travellers to the West Coast of the Southern Alps for more than a century.

As visitors followed the coal and gold miners, farming pioneers and coastal traders to the remote thin ribbon of land sandwiched between the mountain peaks and the constant crashing waves of the Tasman Sea, the question was always, where to start?

There are so many faces and facets to the West Coast, so many things to do and so many stunning natural features that figuring out where to begin a personalised adventure can be a tad daunting.

That need be the case no longer, with the creation of New Zealand’s two newest touring routes-The Great Coast Road & Glacier Highway. Combined, if time permits - more time is infinitely better than less in a region with potential adventures around every corner - or one at a time, these new touring routes provide a road map for those wishing to experience one of the most pristine and dynamic playgrounds on this planet.

Participating in one of the world’s great train journeys KiwiRail’s TranzAlpine experience over the stunningly picturesque route between Christchurch and Greymouth - is certainly one way of getting to the West Coast and is highly recommended.

Having passed through golden swaying fields, trundling alongside wild rushing rivers and chugging over mountain passes to arrive on The Coast - as the locals affectionately call it - a traveller can head either north, toward the Buller River, or south to the glacier country.

Fishing in Reefton. Courtesy of West Coast Tourism

For those who like to be more in control of their own itinerary and hour-by-hour movements, driving to the West Coast offers its own attractions, and indeed, distractions of a most interesting kind.

A visit to the West Coast should be viewed as a kind of work in progress - and with such diversity in both activities and attractions there’s a lot to be said for making more than one incursion into this region. One option is to take a Top of the South approach.

That has a lot going for it.

There are a number of options for travelling from the popular marine wildlife centre of Kaikoura, but the most scenic route to Hanmer Springs is via the Inland Road, which passes the entrance to the ski village of Mount Lyford. This route takes about an hour

ION MENT T TIME Y AD A THIS KING AN O O O T OF B E ROOM T E PRIVA E A FRE V L I RECE INENTA T CON AKFAST BRE Immerse yourself in the spectacular view of mountains and bush scenery of New Zealand’s west coast. Rainforest Retreat offers a unique getaway with options suited to various budgets and needs of the world weary traveller.

Centrally located in the heart of Franz Josef Glacier township on the west coast of NZ’s South Island.

Nestled in six acres of native bush and surrounded by lush punga groves, Rainforest Retreat offers a wide range of accommodation – all built to embrace the natural environment.

Whatever the season, explore New Zealand’s glaciers while staying at Rainforest Retreat. It’s not just accommodation … it’s an experience!

46 Cron Street, Franz Josef, West Coast /

Freecall 0800 873 346 /

Phone: +64 3 752 0220 /

www.rainforestretreat.co.nz

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WEST COAST

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…

WEST COAST

and a half, but it’s advisable to leave more time but there are plenty of photo opportunities of coastal and rural vistas for the avid photographer.

Hanmer Springs is a destination for relaxation and rejuvenation, with the thermal hot pools in that small settlement - a range of spa therapies are also on offer - absolute bliss for travel-weary bodies.

From Hanmer Springs to Reefton is about an hour and three quarters - just under 140 kilometres - and once that spot has been reached, the crashing waves of the mighty Tasman right on the West Coast is within an easy drive.

Any West Coast experience leaves travellers spoilt for choice and any study of a map will show that a major choice has to be made at Reefton – whether to go north through the Buller gorge and to the Abel Tasman area, with Nelson beyond, or south west to Greymouth and down the Coast to the twin glaciers, Fox and Franz Josef, then to Gates of Haast, and eventually Wanaka. It’s certainly helpful if this decision to taken during the trip planning phase, especially where accommodation and activities bookings are required.

At Reefton there’s a goodly number of quality visitor experiences - of both the more passive and active variety - to be had, not to forget the history and heritage of a township established to meet the needs of those who swarmed into the area during the gold mining era of the late 1860s, seeking fame and fortune.

Reefton is a pioneer town, with its main street boasting buildings of a time when gold quartz brought prosperity. Many of its stunning heritage buildings date back to the decades from 1870 to the turn of the century and even in a region jam packed full of relics of the gold and coal mining era, it is truly one of a kind.

The mining of the mid to late 1800s brought technology and innovation and in August 1888 Reefton became the first settlement in the Southern Hemisphere to achieve a public supply of electricity - long before the most fashionable suburbs of London and New York were afforded this luxury.

There’s so much to see and do in Reefton that a few days there are highly recommended. The examples of rail history, that mining activities and attractions can keep one entertained for days, while the local heritage trust board’s tours around the town and to the nearby settlement of Black’s Point, founded originally by Cornish migrants from England, is a must-do outing for any visitor especially the Blacks Point museum.

Close to Reefton is Inangahua, the scene of a destructive quake in May 1968 which sent buildings tumbling and opened a giant chasm in the earth. The small settlement of that name is on the road to Nelson Lakes and is the perfect base for those with an interest in battling the wild trout for which the main two rivers of that locality are renowned.

Get away from the hustle and bustle of the city to the tranquil surroundings of Te Waonui Forest Retreat on the West Coast.

© Glacier Country Kayaks

Whether you’re looking to escape for a romantic getaway, indulge in a girl’s weekend away, or chase adrenalin filled adventure,Te Waonui is the place for you!

To book visit tewaonui.co.nz or call 0800 NZ OWNED (69 69 63)

77 77

WEST COAST

THE TERRACE & 10 COTTAGES

FRANZ JOSEF GLACIER

DISCOUNTED HOT POOL ENTRY & SCENIC FLIGHTS FOR GUESTS

Individual Studio Cottages & Holiday House.

Quiet central location next to the rainforest with snow-capped mountain views.

P. +64 (0)3 752 0211 P. 0800 10 10 01 www.10cottages.co.nz

Closest Motel to the centre of Franz Josef and in a quiet side street location.

Spacious Hotel & Motel rooms & family apartments. Quiet onsite Restaurant

P. +64 (0)3 752 0130 P. 0800 83 77 22 www.terracemotel.co.nz

Inside Honeycomb cave, Courtesy of West Coast Tourism

KAPITEA Lodge

Kapitea Lodge is an intimate and stylish boutique hotel on the rugged West Coast and lies amongst 8 hectares of prime coastal land with panoramic views over the wild beaches and indigenous rainforest. Continental breakfast, evening canapĂŠs, house wine, and wifi included.

Relax in the hot tub after a long day exploring. Rates from $285.00

P: 03 755 6805 E: stay@kapitea.co.nz 71 Ardmore Street, Wanaka

P: 0800 473 288 www.kapitea.co.nz 78

west coast

Karamea is home to the Honeycomb Hill Caves — world famous for their collection of Moa bones and other extinct bird species.

Glow Worms Charleston Courtesy of West Coast Tourism

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

S

tep back in time and discover a recreated gold rush village. Over 30 shops and buildings to explore plus Steam Train ride, Sluice demonstrations, Gold panning tutorials and old time photographs. Lots of family fun!

Onsite café and licenced bar, postal services and free wifi.

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

Open 7 days 8.30am - 5.00pm.

Phone 03 762 6634 shantytown.co.nz

Just a hop, skip and jump from Inangahua water-based activities to suit all tastes and skill levels are on offer. Surrounded by native forest, the magnificent Paparoa mountains and the impressive river from which it took its name, Buller Adventure Tours is located on the road to Westport. Rafting and kayaking, jetboat tours and horse trekking are this long-established operator’s specialities, but for those who prefer to really get down and dirty, a few hours in control of a Suzuki LTZ250 sport quad bike offers excitement galore, even for novices.

For truly stunning subterranean experiences, Norwest Adventures base at Charlestown, on State Highway 6 south of Westport - the coastal road that leads to Greymouth, Hokitika and the glacier country beyond - should not be bypassed under any circumstances.

Whether it’s in an old truck tube gliding through tranquil waters, or abseiling into the bowels of the earth from above, an ancient wonderland of stalactites, stalagmites and galaxies of glow-worms are certain to leave you enchanted and entranced. These cave tours are accessed on the Nile River rainforest train, a journey worth taking even if one is averse to venturing underground.

One of the West Coast’s most visited natural attractions is just to the south of Charleston and the advice to all is to check the tide times to ensure that a visit coincides with high tide, if schedules allow. The Pancake rocks at Punakaiki are spectacular in themselves, but when the full force of the wild Tasman Sea surges through the blowholes within them, it’s hard not to gasp at the spectacle that unfolds. The sights are truly awesome, to use a term commonly heard among Kiwis of the human variety.

Amid the diversity offered by this remote, wild and rugged region of New Zealand are many activities designed to leave visitors spellbound, but two other great attractions can be found along this touring route. The arches and honeycomb caves of the Oparara Basin, just north of Karamea, provide another look at how Mother Nature weaves her magic, while just south of Westport, the colonies of seals at Tauranga Bay, near Cape Foulwind, are a crowd-pleaser, especially when the pups are in residence and at their most playful.

Returning to the opening stanza of this travelogue, the question is where start on a journey through the West Coast of the Southern Alps. New Zealand’s two newest touring routes provide some of the answers, but half the fun in any travel is making discoveries for one’s self.

Along these touring routes - to the Top of the South in a northward direction or to the glacier country heading south, adventures abound.

Choosing just what to see and do can be a challenge, but that’s a story for another day!

79

Visit the imposing Glaciers Ice, ice and more ice - that's what's on offer at the Fox and Franz Josef glaciers. But there's more to New Zealand’s Glacier Country, on the South Island’s West Coast, than cold water!

The Franz Josef glacier was named after Franz Joseph I of Austria in 1859. The Māori name for the glacier is Ka Roimata o Hine Hukatere (the tears of Hinehukatere) and the name comes from a legend which comes from the Makawhio hapu of the Nga Tahu tribe.

The story goes that Hinehukatere was a fearless warrior who enjoyed climbing the surrounding mountains. One day she pursuaded her lover to climb with her.

Sadly, like so many love stories, the legend does not end well. The faithful beau was toppled over by an avalanche and swept to his death. Hinehukatere was devastated and her tears flowed down the mountains where they were frozen by the Gods in a river of ice which formed the glacier which we see today.

Situated in a World Heritage Area the mighty Fox Glacier is the largest of the West Coast glaciers.

This magnificent frozen river of ice tumbles from New Zealand’s majestic Southern Alps and runs through a lush rainforest close to sea level.

This proximity makes it rare in the world and it’s accessibility opens up the opportunity for everyone to come and enjoy it’s splendour.

Fox Glacier Guiding has a long guiding history in the area (guided walks first started in 1928) and this accumulated knowledge and experience means that the guides are able to provide safe, enjoyable, high quality trips.

While you are in the area, you will want to visit beautiful Lake Matheson, with its enchanting reflections of Mount Cook and Mount Tasman.

Catch a stunning sunset at Gillespies Beach, a stunningly beautiful place with its abundance of smooth flat oval stones where you get a real sense of mountains to the sea.

There is also a chance that you maybe be able catch seals frolicking around the northern end of the beach as well.

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lake wanaka

Lake Wanaka’s Midas Touch Roys Bay in Autumn Courtesy of www.lakewanaka.co.nz

Tis the season where everything turns to gold, and nowhere puts on more splendour than the Lake Wanaka region.

Trip the light fantastic through avenues of golden leaves along a lakefront of crystalline blue.

It’s the season of inspiration. A combination of crisp, cool mornings, bright calm afternoons and gentle golden evenings are infused with an irresistible atmosphere of carefree creativity and fun. The heat of summer fades slowly, leaving in its wake warm tranquil days perfect for hiking, biking, kayaking, boating, camping and a multitude of other pursuits in the great outdoors.

Autumn in Lake Wanaka offers everything you can do in summer but with the distinctly memorable atmosphere of a season special in its own way. Events are plentiful and diverse with the annual Upper Clutha A&P Show bringing together town and country; the biennial Festival of Colour coming up in April 2015 where the region celebrates the arts; and every alternate year Warbirds over Wanaka, next on in 2016, one of the world’s largest and most popular airshow where vintage and modern aircraft strut their stuff in the sky; the popular return of Race to the Sky – a weekend of petrol-head heaven and racing the clock up Snow Farm road; GODzone Adventure Race – one of the roughest,

By Carla Munro Lake Wanaka Tourism

toughest adventure races on the planet; the Autumn Art School, a plethora of workshops for every artist; and the new annual event YAMI – Youth and Adults in the Music Industry with workshops run by New Zealand’s best musical talent from songwriters to technicians to management. But even if you miss the events on offer, there’s still a multitude of amazing adventures to be had through the months of March, April and May. Turn your holiday into a foodie affair. Take a wine tour – one of the best times of the year to appreciate the turning of the leaves as vineyards such as Rippon, Maude, and Atkins Folly, and Archangel don their gilded gowns. In Wanaka personalised wine tours are more than just a van and a day of trawling mass-market vineyards.

The owner operators share your love of wine and food and their comprehensive knowledge of the region, the wines and, most importantly, the people who make this one of the world’s greatest wine regions, mean their tours are imbued with passion and a deeply personal touch.

Because the weather in autumn is habitually calm, this is the season to hike in Mt Aspiring National Park. The park and the greater Lake Wanaka region have hundreds of kilometres of tracks and trails and some of the best day and half day walks in the country. Walks like Roy’s Peak, Rocky Mountain, Mt Iron and notably the Rob Roy Glacier Track, vary in degrees of difficulty and boast iconic views globally recognised for their breath-taking beauty. Getting back to nature has never been easier than in this region of soaring mountains, vivid lakes and rivers, endless valleys and captivating passes. For the keen hiker there are several 81

LAKE WANAKA

outstanding alpine treks into the wilderness and plenty of operators to guide and get you there.

Of course, adventure means different things to different people. For some an adventure is a creative event. Artists and creatives of all kinds flock to the Lake Wanaka region to get in touch with nature in their own way. Painters take easels and brushes to the lakefront, photographers tuck themselves into cosy nooks of fallen leaves to capture the first light of day, and writers and musicians spin gold inspired by the invigorating peace of Wanakaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s autumn.

The Lake Wanaka region is all about the people and their passion for life, their passion for what they love to do, their passion for nature and getting back to basics, and their passion for this incredible little town with a whole lot of heart. With the bustling heat of summer over, the buzz of winter yet to come and the rejuvenation of spring months away, autumn is the season that truly gives the people of Wanaka a reason to celebrate, embrace and serenely share their glorious golden region.

For inside knowledge on all the awesome things to see, do, eat and drink and an abundance of perfect places to stay visit www.lakewanaka.co.nz

Skydive Wanaka prides itself on offering a uniquely kiwi experience coupled with stunning scenery and world class customer service and facilities. Skydive Wanaka is very excited to announce that very soon adrenalin junkies visiting New Zealand will be able to strap themselves to a beautiful stranger and skydive from a perfectly good HELICOPTER, in spectacular Wanaka!!

Skydive Wanaka has recently been awarded full certification and approval, from the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), to operate as the first commercial tandem skydive helicopter operation in New Zealand. In addition to the ever popular options of a tandem skydive, from either 12,000ft or 15,000ft, out of their bright orange plane ROK Skydive Wanaka will soon be adding a tandem heli skydive from 12,000ft to the thrill seekers menu. Watch this space for details.

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Experience the region’s highlights, from Wyndham

Vacation Resorts Wanaka

No matter the season, the spectacular region of Wanaka beckons you to explore the South Island’s natural landscape, discover new tastes and relax with a spot of pampering.

With a choice of stylish studios and spacious self-contained apartments, Wyndham Wanaka is the perfect place to unwind after a day of exploring the best the region has to offer. Whether you fancy hiking, fishing, mountain climbing, cycling, kayaking, jet boating, wineries or scenic flights, Wanaka has something to please everyone.

Resort features • 2km from the heart of Wanaka Village • Short stroll to Lake Wanaka • Heated pool with water slide • Hot tub and Sauna

Book now at wyndhamAP.com/hotels/wanaka to save 15% off the best available rates plus 5% discount at Wanaka River Journeys (quote: WANAKA15) *Terms and Conditions apply. Subject to availability. Minimum night stay may apply. 15% off rates available online. Valid for bookings and travel 1 March - 1 December 2015. Exclusion dates apply 3rd July - 20th July 2015 and 25th-30th September 2015. Bookings must be made direct with hotel/resort. Quote ‘WANAKA15’ upon booking via online, phone or email. All rates include GST and departure clean only. Not valid for group bookings of 10 or more. Prices subject to exchange rates and currency fluctuations. Rate of the day refers to the rate available on the day of booking and is subject to occupancy and availability. Wyndham Vacation Resorts Asia Pacific Pty Ltd ACN 090 083 613. Resort Management by Wyndham Pty Ltd ACN 099 634 830.

WAN8754

QUEENSTOWN

Autumn gold in Queenstown The dazzling autumn colours and landscapes of Queenstown and the Southern Lakes attract people from around the world. Bright golds, reds and yellows dominate the landscape, set against a backdrop of towering mountains and the crystal clear waters of the surrounding rivers and lakes.

Earnslaw docked in Queenstown Bay at Dusk, Courtesy of Destination Queenstown

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QUEENSTOWN

Queenstown is an exciting and vibrant place that is renowned as New Zealand’s leading four-season resort, and while it is a must-visit destination year round, it is never more striking than in autumn.

Of the four distinct seasons, autumn’s arrival in a blaze of reds and golds is the most dramatic; attracting visitors, artists and photographers from around the world. The fantastic line-up of regional events and great holiday deals makes Queenstown an ideal place to visit, with experiences to suit any holiday; whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, luxury experience or a family break.

There is a seemingly endless supply of world-renowned adventure activities ranging from skydiving, bungy jumping, jet boating and paragliding to aerobatic flights, horse trekking, rafting and 4WD tours. For a more relaxed pace, tee up a round of golf, take a boat cruise or scenic flight, sample award-winning Central Otago wines and superb local cuisine, enjoy a treatment at a luxury spa or explore the town’s many shops, galleries, bars, cafes and restaurants.

The autumn temperatures are cooler at sunrise and sunset but the warm sunny days are ideal for exploring the region and enjoying the activities and attractions that make Queenstown famous. Discover the back-country by foot or bike or make the most of the huge network of trails around the region.

The Queenstown Trail is classed as a New Zealand 'Great Ride' with the 110 kilometre network of trails in the Wakatipu basin winding between rivers, lakes and mountain ranges. The trail gives you easy access to a variety of iconic Queenstown vistas and experiences. Popular spots such as Queenstown Bay, Frankton, Lake Hayes, Arrowtown or Gibbston’s ‘valley of vines’ can all be accessed via the Queenstown Trail.

More challenging biking options include road rides, heli-biking, a bike park and the Southern Hemisphere’s only gondola assisted bike lift. Bike operators and rental providers offer a range of hire packages and guided tour options whether it’s for an hour or a multi-day trip.

If you’re visiting Queenstown in March there’s plenty to keep you entertained at the annual 10-day Bike Festival (13th - 22nd March), from the spectacular Slope-style, Dirt-masters Downhill, Super D and Mega Avalanche to the Tour de Wakatipu, the kids’ cross country race day, Mini X and bike movies and parties.

Queenstown also offers some of the country’s best golfing experiences. The world-class, diverse golf courses are set amongst dramatic lake and alpine scenery and are a must-do for keen golfers. It’s easy to fit in a round – there are six options, all within 25 minutes of the town centre, ranging from immaculately groomed 18 hole championship courses to a family friendly ninehole course and driving range.

New Zealand’s premier golf event, the 2015 BMW NZ Open tournament is also held in Queenstown from 12 – 15 March. The tier one event on the PGA Tours of Australasia has a unique ProAm format that brings together a prestigious blend of Professional and Amateur golfers and is held across two spectacular golf courses - The Hills and Millbrook Resort.

This year the entertainment on and off the course will be even bigger and better. The inaugural celebrity challenge will see some of the greatest cricketers in the history of the game swapping their bats for golf clubs. The entertainment continues at ‘The 19th’ at The Hills, with a range of food, wine and beer options, plenty of seating, musical performances, daily live entertainment and a wide range of exhibitors. Popular Kiwi songwriter and musician Benny Tipene will headline the family-friendly ‘Open Sounds by Amisfield’ concert, taking place at ‘The 19th’ on the Friday evening of the tournament (13th March).

Autumn in the Wakatipu Courtesy of Destination Queenstown

EA WILL RECEIV U O Y D N A T WN TRIP AIN TICKE G QUEENSTO R FERRY/TR U IN O N Y O S Y U N A W C O SH OFF ANY

P: 03 441 3003 E: info@canyoning.co.nz

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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

stown

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Hiking Ben Lomond Courtesy of Destination Queenstown

Queenstown is fast becoming renowned as one of NZ’s leading wine and food destinations and early autumn is a great time to come and experience the buzz as more than 6,000 tonnes of grapes are harvested from Central Otago’s 200 vineyards. If you’re a food and wine lover you can sample the ‘best of the best’ at the Skycity Gibbston Wine and Food Festival (21st March) - a harvest celebration showcasing the region’s finest wines, wine celebrities, local produce and talented chefs. For further taste testing, enjoy a leisurely lunch at one of the region’s many fine winery restaurants or spend the afternoon exploring vineyards and cellar doors on a wine tour.

Local chefs are passionate about using local ingredients and cooler temperatures bring a change in menus to reflect the season’s fresh produce. There are more than 150 innovative and award-winning restaurants and eateries to cater for any occasion from fine dining to fun dining.

In downtown Queenstown there’s stylish bistro food, celebrity chef restaurants, traditional pub meals, designer burgers and a variety of ethnic cuisine, while buffet dining above the gondola provides magnificent views of the region. Daytime al fresco dining is the ideal way to soak up the autumn sunshine and scenery while colder evenings are perfect for sipping a glass of award-winning local Pinot Noir beside a fire.

A trip to Queenstown isn’t complete without a visit to Arrowtown, the historic gold mining village on the banks of the Arrow River. Arrowtown is celebrated for its famous autumn hues when the trees on the surrounding hills turn red and gold. The Arrowtown Autumn Festival (10th-19th April) provides the perfect opportunity to enjoy the vibrant colours and relaxed atmosphere. The 10-day festival celebrates the old gold-mining town’s heritage with gold panning, a market day and street parade, the Art2Wear event, guided historical walks, a vintage car rally and live music and theatre. Make time to explore the tree-lined streets, old miners’ cottages, restored Chinese Village and Lakes District Museum as well as the award-winning restaurants and cafes, gourmet food and wine providers and diverse retail stores and galleries.

Autumn is also a good time to enjoy the region’s walking trails. Scenic walks from downtown Queenstown range from a short stroll around the beautiful lakeside gardens to tackling Queenstown Hill for magnificent 360 degree vistas. Further afield, Glenorchy’s epic Lord of the Rings scenery is a must-see and leads on to some of New Zealand’s Great Walks.

While visiting the region you’ll be spoilt for choice for places to stay – there’s everything from character backpacker hostels to some of the world’s finest luxury lodges, most within walking distance of town.

Queenstown is an easily accessible destination with great air connections and some of New Zealand’s most scenic drives delivering visitors to this iconic destination.

For more inspiration and great autumn deals visit www.queenstownnz.co.nz.

QUEENSTOWN

Events this AUTUMN Motatapu

Queenstown Bike Festival

7th March

13th – 22nd March

The Motatapu is New Zealand’s premier mountain bike and off-road running event between Wanaka and Arrowtown which is held in March each year. From recreational runners, riders and walkers to elite athletes, the Motatapu offers a challenge for everyone with a 47km Mountain Bike, 42km Off Road Marathon, 49km Adventure Run or 15km Miner's Trail – all through the magnificent landscapes of the Motatapu and its surrounding valleys. www.motatapu.org.nz

Grab your bike and helmet and head to Queenstown for the Queenstown Bike Festival. It’s an exciting 10-day event for all ages and abilities and it gives you the chance to check out Queenstown’s world-class cycle tracks, trails, roads and spectacular lake and alpine scenery. www.queenstownbikefestival.co.nz

The BMW New Zealand Open

21st March

12th – 15th March Held at two spectacular golf courses - The Hills and Millbrook Resort - the New Zealand Open incorporates a unique Pro-Am format that brings together a prestigious blend of Professional and Amateur golfers. The New Zealand Open is the country’s premier golf event, as well as a tier one event on the PGA Tour of Australasia. www.nzopen.co.nz

Skycity Gibbston Wine and Food Festival Food and wine lovers can sample the ‘best of the best’ at the annual Gibbston Wine and Food Festival, a harvest celebration which showcases the famous winemaking region’s finest wines, wine celebrities, local produce and talented chefs. Learn how wine and food can enhance each other at master classes run by industry leaders, try grape stomping, or simply sit back, relax and enjoy the stunning wine, food and lineup of entertainment on offer. This year’s event will be hosted at the Queenstown Gardens. www.gibbstonwineandfood.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.

Complimentary transport from central Queenstown by arrangement.

“ 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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FIORDLAND

The jewel in Southland's crown Fiordland To really experience this beautiful part of the country, you need to put on your coat and get out there to embrace the wild landscape that Fiordland is renowned for.

The extraordinary beauty of Fiordland was recognised by the United Nations in 1986 when it was made a World Heritage Area.

The majestic cliff faces, valleys and ice carved fiords date back 80 million years to a time when New Zealand was part of the ancient super continent Gondwana.

Te Anau treats Located on the shores of Lake Te Anau and bordering Fiordland National Park, Te Anau township is an attractive town that is a destination in its own right as well as a base for trampers and visitors to the fiords.

Te Anau is only a two-hour drive from Queenstown, following the stunning lakeside drive along Lake Wakatipu, through the rugged Northern Southland Ranges to Fiordland’s spectacular snow-capped mountains. It is just under four hours to Dunedin and two hours from Invercargill.

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 spa and sauna complex

Visit the fiords Fiordland is renowned as the home of Mitre Peak and the Fiords of both the Milford Sound and Doubtful Sound.

Milford Sound is the only fiord in the area that can be accessed by road. Whatever the weather, the sheer granite cliffs which tower high above and deep down below the depths of the crystal clear water, are truly a sight to behold.

Doubtful Sound is larger and deeper than Milford and provides a haven of nature with ancient rainforest, abundant wildlife and superb physical grandeur.

Playful New Zealand fur seals and cute Fiordland crested penguins can be seen on many of the small islets in the entrance to the fiord. At 421 metres deep, Doubtful Sound is also perfect for kayaking or cruising.

Visitors to both Milford and Doubtful Sound will be enthralled and amazed by the seals, dolphins and penguins that regularly visit the crystal waters.

Hiking heaven Fiordland is the ‘walking capital of the world’ and contains three of New Zealand’s great walks – the Milford, Routeburn and Kepler Tracks.

If you are interested in taking a bit more time out of your holiday, you will love the Kepler Track which should take between three and four days and covers 60 kilometres of track and takes in stunning scenery. Perfect for the family, this track offers comfortable cabins as well as camping options to relax those tight muscles.

The Routeburn Track will take you through the beautiful Mount Aspiring National Park and covers 32 kilometres, this should take between two and four days to complete. For those with less time on their hands, there is also the opportunity to take part in oneday tracks which are still as beautiful and picturesque as the longer tracks.

Finally, experience the stunning grandeur of the Milford Track, which is a 53.5 kilometre walk which takes over four days to complete, through Fiordland National Park.

From sheer-ice carved valley, to peaceful forests and cascading waterfalls, this spectacular walk offers a high standard of track with comfortable, serviced huts available during the autumn months.

ticket erry h f r o in OFF t e r tra$ u o y 20 t n Presend receiveily rate. a a d

64 Lakefront Drive, Te Anau, Ph: 0800 223 687 reservations@distinctionteanau.co.nz www.distinctionteanau.co.nz Milford Track, Fiordland Photo J McLees. Courtesy of Destination Fiordland

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FIJI

Relax on island time

Surrendertasteindulge

The Pearl Resort Fiji Snorkel the crystal sea Photo Chris McLennan

Just a short three-hour flight from New Zealand, the beautiful Republic of Fiji caters for romantic holidays and family-trips alike.

Fiji is made up of over 300 islands set in crystal clear waters with palm-fringed white sandy beaches, tempting lagoons and colourful coral reefs.

Famous for its soft-coral diving, white sand beaches and pristine natural environment Fiji is a leader in eco-tourism. Fiji is a quick three hour flight from Auckland, New Zealand to Nadi Fiji. Flights go to and from once a day operated by Air New Zealand and Fiji Airways.

Fiji's main island is known as Viti Levu and it is from this that the name "Fiji" is derived, though the common English pronunciation is based on that of their island neighbours in Tonga. They called their home Viti, but the Tongans called it Fisi, and it was by this foreign pronunciation, Fiji, first promulgated by Captain James Cook, that these islands are now known.

The majority of Fiji's islands were formed through volcanic activity starting around 150 million years ago. Today, some geothermal activity still occurs on the islands of Vanua Levu and Taveuni.

Viti Levu Known as the international gateway to the stunning Fijian Islands, Viti Levu is the perfect sport for a variety of high profile resorts through to more budget accomodation. While you are in Viti Levu, dive with resident tiger sharks in Bega Lagoon, kayak on the Navua river or snorkel the reef at Nananu-i-Ra. You might also enjoy the Coral Coast, which is an 80 kilometre stretch of beaches and bays between Nadi and Suva on the largest of Fijiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s island.

The capital, Suva, is the largest South Pacific city outside of New Zealand and the perfect place to stop and enjoy the night life or restaurants throughout the main CBD.

www.thepearlsouthpacific.com stay@thepearlsouthpacific.com

FIJI

Taveuni Island Known as Fijiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Garden Island, with nature reserves harbouring an abundance of native plants and wildlife, Taveuni Island includes over 100 bird species and a stunningly beautiful tropical rainforest.

Rightly know as the 'Garden Isle', Taveuni is the most lush, tropical-flower-laden, waterfall heavy and hiking friendly island in Fiji. Most of the forests are protected and there are peaks to ascend and coastlines to wander. A highlight is the Lavena Coastal Walk that follows the forest's edge for five kilometres along white and black sand beaches and villages to a lush waterfall.

The Rainbow reef is also accessed from Taveuni and smaller offshore islands like Qamea and Matagi hold resorts on stunning remote white sand beaches. Everywhere you go you'll find accommodation for all ranges from super-luxe to backpacker fun.

Beautiful Drawaqa beach Courtesy of Awesome Adventures Fiji

Paradise Taveuni, situated on the southern tip of Taveuni, is a secluded and remote boutique oceanfront Resort. Nestled amongst lush tropical gardens with Rainforest Mountain as a back drop the resort caters to discerning travellers looking for their own piece of paradise. Its unique deep water frontage allows Guests to dive, snorkel and swim from the lava flowedge into pristine warm tropical waters at any time. If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re searching for true Fijian hospitality and long to experience the culture of this mystical land, spend some time in Paradise.

Mention this ad when booking, to receive a Pure Fiji Gift on Arrival

Info@ParadiseInFiji.com | www.ParadiseinFiji.com

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11/15/14 3:34 PM

NZ SPRING

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KI W I R AI L SCE NI C UP DATES

New Zealand’s Volcanic Plateau

If you’re travelling on the Northern Explorer, or have ventured through the central North Island before, you’ll have experienced some of the fascinating and unpredictable wonders of the central Volcanic Plateau.

Stretching across much of the central North Island - south-west from the Bay of Plenty coast to Mt Rua¯pehu near Waiouru, the region features a volcanoformed landscape including lakes, rivers, geo-thermal springs and lava plateaus.

The plateau is the product of massive eruptions from the Taupo Volcanic Zone; the highest and most well-known of these summits are Tongariro (1,967 metres), Nga ¯uruhoe (2,291 metres) and Ruapehu (2,797 metres). All active volcanoes, they can be viewed on the train journey through the Waiouru, Ohakune and National Park areas. Lake Taupo, which lies north-east of these volcanoes, is New Zealand’s largest lake as well as its largest volcano.

However, the lake’s last eruption was over 2000 years ago and the volcano is currently considered dormant.

Volcanic activity began in the area around two million years ago. While Mount Tongariro has had recent small eruptions, Mount Rua ¯pehu erupted significantly in 1995 and 1996, alarming locals as ash was thrown dramatically into the sky. All of this volcanic activity is evident in the landscape around Waiouru and the Desert Road. Here you’ll notice solidified lava flows, scree and springs and an environment in which any flora and fauna that manages to grow (like tussock, flax and scrub) is by necessity 92

robust and resilient. Volcanism has given the plateau its geothermal springs, drifting steam and around Rotorua, the pervasive aroma of sulphur – commonly described as the smell of rotten eggs. As well as fascinating geological features, the central plateau is also rich in culture and history, especially for Ma ¯ori. Descendants of the early arrivals from Polynesia settled around the shores of the Rotorua lakes (the home of Te Arawa iwi) and Lake Taupo ¯ (home to Nga ¯ti Tu ¯wharetoa) where geothermally heated water, steam and fresh water could be utilised. Ma ¯ori considered the nearby volcanoes sacred, and in traditional times they wore woven flax eye shields to avoid looking at the volcanoes summits.

Many areas of the region recall the journeys of early Ma ¯ori, for example Lakes Rotorua and Rotoiti are named after the explorers Kahumatamomoe (son of Te Arawa captain Tamatekapua) and his nephew (later also son-in-law) ¯I henga.

The lakes’ full names are Te Rotoruanuia-Kahumatamomoe and Te Rotoiti-kite-a¯I henga. Many changes occurred in the 19th century following conflict between tribes, expeditions into the east and south of the Central Plateau, the arrival of European missionaries and European settlers, the Ma ¯ori King movement, and acts of war and resistance.

There is a rich Ma ¯ori history in the central North Island, and strong culture and connections to the land and region still remain today. In 1894, Nga ¯ti Tu¯wharetoa gifted the summits of Tongariro, Nga ¯uruhoe and Rua ¯pehu to the Crown and the volcanoes became the basis for Tongariro National Park which was created in 1894. Today, the Central Plateau is a thriving tourism destination, with the ski fields of Mount Rua ¯pehu, spectacular walks and treks (particularly the famous Tongariro Crossing), spas and geothermal attractions, trout fishing and other outdoor activities.

The Main Trunk Line of the Northern Explorer travels between Auckland and Wellington through the region via Ohakune and the National Park stations. Passengers will enjoy the Raurimu Spiral north of National Park Village, a historical piece of engineering where the train seems to tie itself in knots as it descends 139 metres towards the Raurimu settlement via two tunnels, three hairpin bends and a horseshoe curve. The spiral was considered a masterpiece of engineering when it was built, and was the final stage in the Main Trunk Line which was fully completed in 1908.

To learn more about the Northern Explorer journey head to: kiwirailscenic.co.nz/northern-explorer

KIW IR AIL S CEN IC U PDAT E S

Wine and Dine:

The NZ Wine Story If you enjoy a glass (or two) of fine wine, New Zealand is a great place to visit. Home to eight major wine regions and hundreds of wineries, the country offers a wine experience like no other.

Our special combination of soil, climate and water, our pioneering spirit and our commitment to quality all come together to deliver the fantastic wine industry that we have today.

New Zealand wine is distinctive for its purity, vibrancy and intensity. The long ripening period - a result of cool temperatures - allows flavour development whilst retaining fresh acidity, a balance for which New Zealand wines are renowned.

In 1973, as Marlborough’s first Sauvignon Blanc vines were being planted, no one could have predicted that this variety would attain superstar status within a couple of decades.

By the early 1990s Sauvignon Blanc, or ‘Sauv’, was firmly established as New Zealand’s flagship wine, with local and international demand increasing every year. It’s New Zealand’s most widely planted varietal, with many of the best wines still produced in the Marlborough region.

The year was 1961, and by 1962 Villa Maria was established. In the 1970s, the company grew at a rapid pace and today it exports wine to more than 50 countries with the help of 250 staff. The Marlborough winery and cellar door is a great place to try some of the award winning wine, meet some of those who help create it and see where it’s made.

Outside of Marlborough, an impressive array of varieties and styles are produced; from the warmer climate wines such as Bordeaux-style blends and Syrah (grown in Hawke’s Bay and further north) to the much cooler-climate wines such as Pinot Noir and Riesling (grown in the southerly regions) - Pinot Noir is now second to Sauvignon Blank in production volume, and there has been a whopping 129% growth in export sales in the last five years.

This autumn there are several events to look forward to including the Waiheke

Island of Wine Vintage Festival, and the Wellington Wine and Food Festival.

If you’re after something more laid back, the Coastal Pacific train journeys right through the heart of Marlborough, so you can jump off at Blenheim and check out some of the local vineyards first hand.

Or take a look at the KiwiRail Scenic Marlborough Wine Tasting Escape which includes transport, accommodation and a half day highlight wine tour.

Pungently aromatic, New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc assails the senses with red capsicum (bell pepper) and gooseberry characters through lush passion fruit and tropical fruit overtones. Other notes include fresh cut grass, tomato stalks, grapefruit or limes.

The number of Marlborough vineyards has doubled in the last 10 years, and the region is a fantastic destination for wine enthusiasts looking for a rich viticulture and wine-tasting experience.

If you’re at all familiar with New Zealand wine, you’ll recognise the name Villa Maria.

When he was 21, George Fistonich leased five acres from his father and started a vineyard.

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KI W I R AI L SCE NI C UP DATES

UPGRADE YOUR JOURNEY::

kiwirail scenic escape packages Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve taken our three iconic train journeys and combined them with exciting activities and accommodation options beyond the tracks. Hereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a selection of our Scenic Escapes.

For the full offering or to make a booking head to kiwirailscenic.co.nz/scenic-escapes.

KAIKOURA WHALE WATCHING COASTAL PACIFIC Get up close and personal with whales and other marine wildlife on this must-do experience in Kaikoura. Available as a day trip from Christchurch, or an overnight trip from Christchurch or Wellington.

FROM $305 per person

WAITOMO CAVES, HOBBITON and TE PUIA Northern Explorer Combine the iconic Northern Explorer train journey with tours of these three amazing activities, including accommodation and transfers. Three or four day itineraries are available departing from Auckland and Wellington.

FROM $1083 per person

PUNAKAIKI and SHANTYTOWN Tran zAlpine Explore the rugged West Coast including guided bush and beach walks at Punakaiki, and re-live old mining days at the historical Shantytown village. A two day return trip from Christchurch with the option to extend your stay in Greymouth.

FROM $693 per person

NATIONAL PARK BREAK Northern Explorer Explore the wilderness of this world heritage national park, perfect for outdoor adventurers or those looking to simply escape the city. A range of itineraries and accommodation options and are available from Auckland, Hamilton, Palmerston North and Auckland.

FROM $289 per person

KIW IR AIL S CEN IC U PDAT E S

A MEMORABLE GIFT::

Gift vouchers

$1399

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 where they want to go.

GIFT A JOURNEY Choose one of the spectacular scenic journeys for a meaningful gift. Just select your service, 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.

kids’ activity packs Our exciting new kids’ activity packs are now available! The packs are fun and educational, and are recommended for children aged between three and 14 years of age.

Not only will they keep the family entertained during the journey, thanks to the sturdy zip-up case they also make a perfect takehome memento of your travel with KiwiRail Scenic.

The packs include:

-- Playing cards -- Colouring-in activities and pencils -- An activity book including puzzles and quizzes -- Origami -- Stickers -- Sturdy zip-up case Activity packs are available to purchase from the café and are subject to availability, please enquire with your on-board crew.

Available April 2015.

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KI W I R AI L SCE NI C UP DATES

LET’S GET SOCIAL

_ POWERING UP There’s nothing worse than a flat camera or smartphone battery when you’re traveling or on holiday, so we’ve provided power outlets that are accessible from every seat. So plug in, power up and don’t let a flat battery get in the way of your Kodak moments! Note for international visitors: New Zealand’s electricity supply runs at 230/240 volts, and we use angled two or three pin plugs.

Our hub for all things social.

Get snapping, tagging, and don’t forget to follow us!

Tag your train travel pics and we could share it on our social sites (with credit given to you, of course!).

Inside the train, from the viewing deck, or on the station platform – capture and share the best moments of your journey, and show the rest of the world the true beauty of train travel and scenic New Zealand!

#nzby

www.kiwirailscenic-social.co.nz

#tranzalpine #coastalpacific #northernexplorer

FACEBOOK

PINTEREST

_

_

Facebook.com/kiwirailscenic

Pinterest.com/kiwirailscenic

YOU TUBE

INSTAGRAM

_

_

Youtube.com/kiwirailscenic

Instagram.com/kiwirailscenic

The Coastal Pacific Marj de Laat via Instagram

KIW IR AIL S CEN IC U PDAT E S

SHOOT, SHARE AND WIN! Every photo shared goes into the draw to WIN* a KiwiRail Scenic Journeys travel voucher. Post your photo to our Facebook wall, use the hashtag #NZbytrain on Instagram or upload direct to our Shoot, share & win! competition at www.kiwirailscenic-social.co.nz. Winners will be contacted directly, and photos will be published in the next edition of Our New Zealand magazine. Get sharing!

Terms & Conditions

*

+ KiwiRail Scenic may determine, at itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s sole discretion, whether it will use any contributions submitted to it. + Prizes offered for contributions are non-transferrable or redeemable for cash.

Full terms and conditions are outlined on travel vouchers.

train

+ By contributing content the contributor(s) agree to allow KiwiRail Scenic to share the content on social channels without notice to the contributor(s).

summer PRIZE WINNERS Congratulations to Stephan and Marj who are the lucky winners of our spring Shoot, Share and Win prizes!

_ WHERE CAN I CONNECT?

The TranzAlpine at Arthurâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Pass Stephan Karlsson, Sweden

Our trains travel through some very remote parts of the country, and pass through a number of tunnels along the way. Unfortunately this means internet connectivity is patchy and sometimes not available for periods of time, however most stations are located in areas with coverage.

So when you find the train slowing down as you approach a station, take the opportunity to upload and share your train snaps!

KI W I R AI L SCE NI C UP DATES

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.

DC LOCOMOTIVE

DIESEL ELECTRIC MAINLINE PASSENGER & FREIGHT LOCOMOTIVE NUMBER IN SERVICE

71

ENGINE TYPE

EMD 12/645E

POWER OUTPUT

1500HP traction / 1650HP gross

GEAR RATIO

63.14

DRIVING WHEEL DIAMETER

1022mm

MAX TRACTIVE EFFORT

145kN

MAXIMUM SPEED

100kph

WEIGHT IN SERVICE

82 tonnes

DFT LOCOMOTIVE

DIESEL ELECTRIC MAINLINE PASSENGER & FREIGHT LOCOMOTIVE NUMBER IN SERVICE

30

ENGINE TYPE

GM 12/645E3C

POWER OUTPUT

2250HP traction / 2450HP gross

GEAR RATIO

57.16

DRIVING WHEEL DIAMETER

940mm

MAX TRACTIVE EFFORT

270kN

MAXIMUM SPEED

113kph

WEIGHT IN SERVICE

87.6 tonnes

DX LOCOMOTIVE

DIESEL ELECTRIC MAINLINE PASSENGER & FREIGHT LOCOMOTIVE NUMBER IN SERVICE

46

ENGINE TYPE

GE 7FDL12

POWER OUTPUT

3150HP traction / 3300HP gross

GEAR RATIO

93.18

DRIVING WHEEL DIAMETER

940mm

MAX TRACTIVE EFFORT

370kN

MAXIMUM SPEED

106kph

WEIGHT IN SERVICE

99.9 tonnes

EF LOCOMOTIVE

MAINLINE ELECTRIC LOCOMOTIVE NUMBER IN SERVICE

17

POWER OUTPUT

3MW

GEAR RATIO

74.17

DRIVING WHEEL DIAMETER

1100 - 1000mm

MAX TRACTIVE EFFORT

300kN

MAXIMUM SPEED

110kph

WEIGHT IN SERVICE

108 tonnes

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 fromâ&#x20AC;Ś