Welcome To: New Zealand 2010/11

WELCOME TO NEW ZEALAND 2010/2011

WELCOME TO NEW ZEALAND 2010/2011

PLEASE DO NOT REMOVE NZ $25incl GST

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Contents

WELCOME TO NEW ZEALAND 010 Credits

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Message from the Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism

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Message from the Managing Editor

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Welcome to New Zealand

024 Map of New Zealand 026 Fast Facts 029 Express Yourself 032 Arts and Culture 038 Made in New Zealand

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044 Fashion 048 Timepieces

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056 Wine Connoisseur 060 Sport 146 Hotel Directory

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Contents NORTH ISLAND

064 North Island Events Calendar

066 North Island Must Do’s 068 Welcome to Auckland 072 Map of Auckland

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Auckland: A Perfect Day

080 Shopping in Auckland 086 Dining in Auckland 092 Auckland After Dark 094 Welcome to Northland 096 Welcome to Rotorua

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100 Welcome to Lake Taupo and Ruapehu 102 Welcome to Wellington

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104 Map of Wellington 106 Shopping in Wellington 110

Dining in Wellington

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Wellington After Dark

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Contents SOUTH ISLAND 118

South Island Events Calendar

120 South Island Must Do’s 122 Welcome to Nelson and Marlborough 124 Welcome to the West Coast

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126 Welcome to Canterbury and Christchurch 128 Map of Christchurch 129 Shopping in Christchurch 130 Dining in Christchurch 132 Christchurch After Dark 134 Welcome to Queenstown

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136 Map of Queenstown 138 Shopping in Queenstown

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140 Dining in Queenstown 142 Queenstown After Dark 144 Welcome to Dunedin

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WELCOME TO NEW ZEALAND 2010/2011 GROUP PUBLISHER Tina Cooper MANAGING EDITOR Jacklyn Lloyd SUB-EDITOR Madeleine Swain ART DIRECTOR Louise Ayres SALES AND ADVERTISING Emma Ellis PRODUCTION MANAGER Alison Copley PRE-PRESS Nicole Gauci CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Julia Garvey, Emma Ellis, Eli Glasman, Lauren Rosewarne, Nyssa Veraphunt, Nicole Haddow, Nicole Georgelos, Madonna Bowe, Sam Eichblatt, Jamie Cooke, Gemma King, Siobhan Argent, Cassie Robinson, Karla Courtney, Bonnie Ho, Livia Chan, Jane Kyprios, Gemma Peckham.

CHAIRMAN AND GROUP PUBLISHER Nicholas Dower MANAGING DIRECTOR Paul Lidgerwood FINANCE DIRECTOR Sonia Jurista STUDIO DESIGN MANAGER Keely Atkins DIGITAL DIRECTOR Kate Kendall OTHER TITLES IN THE WELCOME TO… SERIES INCLUDE: Welcome To Abu Dhabi Welcome To Australia Welcome To Bahrain Welcome To China Welcome To Dubai Welcome To Victoria South Africa Guest Information For all advertising inquiries relating to the prestigious international Welcome To series, read by millions of affluent travellers each year, please contact the following: AUSTRALIA Head Office Niche Media 142 Dorcas Street South Melbourne VIC 3205 Australia Tel: +61 3 9948 4932 Fax: +61 3 9948 4933 Email: tina.cooper@niche.com.au

BAHRAIN Niche Media 142 Dorcas Street South Melbourne VIC 3205 Australia Tel: +61 3 9948 4932 Fax: +61 3 9948 4933 Email: tina.cooper@niche.com.au CHINA MHI China Ltd 18F Capital Group Plaza 6 Chaoyangmen Beidajie Beijing CHINA 100027 Tel: +86 10 8528 2181 Email: mary@mhichina.com DUBAI/ABU DHABI InterCommunications Advertising PO Box 55894 Dubai UAE Tel: +971 4 2281 977 Fax: +971 4 2231 732 Email: adil1@emirates.net.ae HONG KONG The Media Representative Company Limited 39th Floor, Exchange Square, Tower One, 8 Connaught Place, Central, Hong Kong Tel: +852 2838 8702 or +852 9276 1011 Fax: +852 2572 5468 Email: herbmosk@yahoo.com.hk

ALSO PUBLISHED BY NICHE MEDIA PTY LTD AR (Architectural Review Australia) Australian Macworld Desktop FM (Facility Management) HeliNEWS (inside) Australian Design Review Marketing MoneySaver Coupon Booklet CRYSTAL - A Crown Publication The Welcome To publications are distributed annually to the guest rooms of prestigious international hotels in the aforementioned countries. Other destinations will follow.

While every endeavour is made to avoid errors, some information contained within may be superseded during the term of publication. The publishers would appreciate advice of any changes which may occur after publication.

This book is copyright 2010/2011.

No part may be reproduced by any process without the written permission of the publishers.

NEW ZEALAND Niche Media 142 Dorcas Street South Melbourne VIC 3205 Australia Tel: +61 3 9948 4932 Fax: +61 3 9948 4933 Email: tina.cooper@niche.com.au SOUTH AFRICA Levin and Associates 210 Rivermeade, Sally’s Alley Kentview, Johannesburg 2196 South Africa Tel: + 27 11 440 8017 Fax: +27 11 786 5154 Email: levinassociates@absamail.co.za

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NEW ZEALAND WELCOME TO

COVER PHOTOGRAPH Lake Peters Photographer: Eldad Yitzhak

WELCOME TO NEW ZEALAND IS PUBLISHED BY Waiviata Pty Ltd ABN 89 005 577 873, a member of the Niche Group ABN 20 097 172 337

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For stockists call: (09) 373 1460 www.uggaustralia.com

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MESSAGE FROM THE PRIME MINISTER AND MINISTER OF TOURISM JOHN KEY MP As Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism it’s my great pleasure to welcome you to New Zealand.

Whether it’s our breathtaking scenery, our unique culture and Kiwi hospitality, our fresh food and delicious wine, or the thrills on offer in one of the world’s greatest adventure playgrounds, the 100% Pure New Zealand experience is one of a kind.

There’s 100% Pure scenery – from glaciers and fiords, volcanos and geysers, to ancient kauri forests and rugged coastlines that are home to whales, dolphins and seals.

We have 100% Pure experiences – visiting a marae and learning the stories and traditions of Maori, fishing for trout in a sparkling mountain stream, enjoying Auckland’s cafés and nightlife, or watching the sun rise over a mirrored lake accompanied by the birdsong of tuis and bellbirds.

We provide 100% Pure tastes – some of the freshest and most delicious food in the world and an array of sumptuous wines from almost every corner of the country.

And we’ve got 100% Pure adventure – jet boating, white-water rafting, bungy jumping and mountain biking, or playing golf on one of over 400 courses.

New Zealand has something for everyone.

We’d love to welcome you to our home and show you around.

Best wishes

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John Key MP Prime Minister Minister of Tourism

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Are you ready for the Ultimate New Zealand Experiences AU#KLAND "AY /F )3LAND3

The America’s Cup is the world’s oldest and most prestigious yachting trophy and the ultimate regatta. NZL40 and NZL41 offer a unique opportunity for you to participate in sailing on these grand prix racing machines. No experience required. s !

MERICA S #UP HR 3AILING Experience

Dolphin Discoveries pioneered eco-marine cruises in the Bay. Cruise among the 144 stunning islands, including the famous ‘Hole in the Rock’, or swim with dolphins, a once in a lifetime experience. s $ ISCOVER THE "AY @(OLE IN THE 2OCK #RUISE s 3WIM WITH THE $OLPHINS #RUISE

s !MERICA S #UP HR -ATCH 2ACE

On Auckland’s doorstep, the Hauraki Gulf is one of the most spectacular marine parks in the world. 22 species of marine mammal, including resident dolphins & whales, have been identified in the Gulf, making this a phenomenal experience that you’ll always remember. s / VER DOLPHIN WHALE SIGHTING SUCCESS

Experience the most exhilarating sailing adventure on NZ’s fastest commercial sailing catamaran. Day sail includes island stopover, nature walks, snorkelling, kayaking, a delicious lunch or just relax. s / N THE %DGE n 4HE 5LTIMATE $AY 3AIL IN THE "AY OF )SLANDS s $OLPHIN 3AIL !DVENTURE #OMBO

s ) NFORMATIVE MARINE CULTURE HISTORY COMMENTARY

Pride of Auckland operates its fleet of purpose built sailboats on the sheltered waters of Auckland’s sparkling Waitemata Harbour. Take the helm or just relax. Pride is about sailing, dining and experiencing Auckland, ‘City of Sails’.

REDSPARK 1002-1368

,UNCH CRUISE \ #OFFEE CRUISE Dinner cruise

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Discover scenic Northland on our purpose-built off-road vehicle. Visit Ancient Kauri Kingdom, Gumdiggers Park, spiritual Cape Reinga, drive along 90 Mile Beach, boogy board down massive sand dunes then stop at Mangonui fish & chip shop. Fun day for all. s #APE 2EINGA VIA -ILE "EACH

Daily departures from Auckland and Paihia, Bay of Islands

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MESSAGE FROM THE MANAGING EDITOR JACKLYN LLOYD People travel the world for a number of reasons. Most commonly we travel because we yearn to relax, but we also travel to experience the different cultures and lifestyles that somehow seem exotic and foreign when compared to our own daily routines. The reality of planning a trip, however, can be both exhilarating and exhausting.

When planning a holiday we tend to ensure that our itineraries are packed full of ‘things to do’ and ‘must-see’ landmarks. Without realising it, when we leave the comfort of our own homes, we often find ourselves on a conveyor belt of banal travel obligations – watching, visiting, tasting and experiencing things that we already know so much about.

When I first travelled to Paris, for example, naturally I visited the Eiffel Tower. Sad to say, I felt like I had already been there due to the hundreds of films and postcards that showcase this Parisian landmark. Then when I visited Rome, although the Colosseum was a magnificent sight in itself, I found the ancient ruins of Pompeii far more intriguing, as I had no preconceptions about the site.

In New Zealand, there is no Colosseum, there is no Eiffel Tower; instead New Zealand is what it is. Holidaymakers do not overrun it; rather, this picture perfect country is unaffected, natural and vast. In New Zealand there are no queues to take a photograph and no hordes of impatient travellers competing with each other for preferred vantage points. Rather, in New Zealand space abounds; local Kiwis and Maoris warmly greet you, and there is so much fresh air that you find yourself constantly breathing in deeply just to take it all in.

Don’t get me wrong; while you’re in New Zealand of course you will want to enjoy some of the ‘touristy’ attractions. Unsurpassable experiences include: bungy jumping in Queenstown, sipping on a glass of sauvignon blanc in the Marlborough region, taking a snapshot of Rotorua’s looming volcanoes, reeling out a fishing line in Christchurch or relishing a haka performance before a rugby game at Westpac Stadium in Wellington.

But once you have done all of these things, when you stop and look around, you will still be left in awe of the way that New Zealand always manages to take your breath away.

So when you return home, just remember, the things that stay with you are the unforgettable memories and experiences that truly resonate with you. You won’t want to remember waiting in queues, struggling to fit in all of your ‘must do’s’ and battling with constant exhaustion. So allow yourself to unwind and let curiosity be your travel guide – free your mind and let New Zealand’s captivating essence engulf you while you create your own lasting memories...

Jacklyn Lloyd Managing editor Welcome To luxury travel series The definitive resource for discerning travellers.

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While working on Welcome To New Zealand, my desire was to venture off the beaten track and enjoy my own travelling experiences. And what I found was priceless.

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Welcome to

NEW ZEALAND

NEW ZEALAND WELCOME TO

Emma Ellis discovers that diverse cultures, breathtaking landscapes and inviting personalities all merge to create a lasting impression of New Zealand.

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Walter Peak High Country Farm, Lake Wakatipu. Š M Achkazu

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Marlborough Vineyard. © Destination Marlborough

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Picture majestic mountains and the crystal clear waters of Lake Wakatipu – an image that is truly unforgettable.

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accepting multicultural society with a vibrant history, and in such stunning surroundings, it’s not that surprising that from the moment you arrive they will make you feel welcome.

In 1769, James Cook arrived on New Zealand’s shores planning to create a European settlement, after Abel Tasman had already discovered the country and its native Maori population in 1642.

After officially becoming a British colony in 1840, the Maori people initially resisted the European infrastructure; however, they soon came to embrace the resources that European settlement afforded.

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his Pacific Island nation is guaranteed to take your breath away, regardless of whether your visit is for business or leisure. While in New Zealand you will uncover experiences that are perfect for both calming relaxation and heart-racing adventure. Whether it’s a jaw-dropping glimpse of the sweeping mountain panoramas and abundant lush green forests, the wild thrill of stepping off the edge of a cliff for your very first bungy jump or closing your eyes and relishing a crisp sauvignon blanc from the Marlborough region… regardless, you will experience feelings of euphoria while visiting New Zealand.

New Zealanders, or ‘Kiwis’ as they are affectionately known, are the most gracious, accommodating and cheerful people that you will come across while travelling. Considering they live in such an

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This collaboration has allowed New Zealand to become a truly diverse nation and an inviting new home for European and Asian nationalities, along with Pacific Islanders, including Samoans, Tongans, Fijians and Cook Islanders, as well as neighbouring Australians undertaking a sea change pilgrimage.

The result of such a dynamic history is a delightful combination of traditional Maori cultural experiences and modern developments, with a resulting plethora of mouth-watering international cuisine.

New Zealand is the destination that all foodies dream of. The freshest fruit, vegetables, meat and seafood will make any local dining experience, whether modest or opulent, utterly fabulous.

Team your meal with a New Zealand wine from any of the local wine regions – Marlborough, Wairarapa and Otago to name a few – and you will find heaven on earth.

Acacia Bay, Lake Taupo. © Destination Lake Taupo

New Zealand’s North and South Islands offer very different attractions and unique scenery. The scenery is so beautiful, in fact, that it has been launched onto the world stage in films like Wolverine, King Kong, The Chronicles of Narnia and The Lord of the Rings trilogy. The best way to enjoy this country and its breathtaking landscape, however, is not through the silver screen, but by enjoying a self-drive holiday and giving yourself plenty of time to explore New Zealand by starting from the North Island and working your way down to the South Island.

On the North Island, Auckland is recognised as the international business hub of New Zealand. When visiting Auckland, Viaduct Harbour should be the first point of call for both yachting enthusiasts and those who enjoy a vibrant nightlife. No matter where you find yourself in Auckland, you can’t miss the prominent Sky Tower, which at 328 metres is one of the tallest towers in the southern hemisphere.

If you’re a thrillseeker, with Auckland city as your backdrop and the peridot coloured water below, perhaps you could climb the Auckland Harbour Bridge or bungy jump off it – whichever suits your level of bravery. For those in search of less heart-thumping adventure, a cruise out to the Hauraki Gulf Islands is a must-do, especially in summer when you can take pleasure in the islands’ untouched splendour and join holidaymakers sunning themselves on the beautiful beaches.

As you travel south, take the time to visit Rotorua, a unique destination sitting within a volcanic plateau and infamous for its sulphuric odour.

Enjoy the unique landscape that is a result of Rotorua’s history of unpredictable geothermal activity. As you travel further south, you’ll find the capital city of Wellington, known as ‘Windy Welly’, located on the southern tip of the North Island. From here you can board the Interislander ferry and set sail to the South Island.

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New Zealanders, or ‘Kiwis’ as they are affectionately known, are the most gracious, accommodating and cheerful people that you will come across while travelling.

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Lanarch Castle. © Dunedin Tourism

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Autumn in Queenstown. © Destination Queenstown

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When you disembark onto the South Island you are a stone’s throw away from New Zealand’s best-known wine region, Marlborough. A winery tour is recommended so that you can fully enjoy and appreciate all of the gorgeous wines and gourmet food that this area boasts.

Head towards the west coast and discover the icy grandeur of the Franz Joseph and Fox Glaciers. Then, head east to Christchurch, the ‘Garden Capital’ of New Zealand. A visit to neighbouring Canterbury is also highly recommended. On the South Island you will find the world’s greatest adventure sports capital, Queenstown. Whichever way you get your kicks – bungy jumping, whitewater rafting, skiing, snowboarding, hiking – there is never a dull moment here. If you’re not looking for thrills and spills, however, you will marvel at Queenstown’s landscape. Picture majestic mountains and the crystal clear waters of Lake Wakatipu – an image that that is truly unforgettable.

This is only an introduction, a snapshot of what this amazing country can offer visitors. Once you’ve slowed the pace of your heart, tasted a sublime seafood meal, filled your lungs with the cleanest air in the world and experienced an exhilarating tour of one of the most exciting countries in the world, it’s easy to understand why you’ll want to come back to New Zealand time and time again. w

Skiing in Queenstown. © Destination Queenstown

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Akaroa. © David Ogilvie

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TE PAPA More than a museum!

Explore Te Papa, New Zealand’s innovative and interactive national museum.

Discover treasures from our unique natural environment, Mäori culture, dynamic art heritage and fascinating history.

Experience an exquisitely carved marae, walk through living native bush, and be shaken in the Earthquake House. Get hands-on in Discovery Centres, view historical and contemporary artworks, enjoy a ride in OurSpace, then come face to face with a colossal squid. Take a guided tour or explore on your own. This is serious fun!

COME EXPLORE ENJOY Open every day from 10am to 6pm, and until 9pm Thursdays.

Free general admission.

Charges apply for tours, rides, and special exhibitions.

Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa Cable Street, Wellington.

Tel. 04 381 7000 mail@tepapa.govt.nz www.tepapa.govt.nz

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NEW ZEALAND MAP NEW ZEALAND WELCOME TO 024 30949_024-136_maps.indd 024

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Map courtesy Hema Maps NZ

Fast

BANKING HOURS Banks are open from 9.30am to 4.30pm Monday to Friday. Automated teller machines (ATMs) are widely available at banks located along main shopping streets and in malls. International credit cards and ATM cards will work as long as they have a four-digit PIN encoded.

BUSINESS HOURS Most shops and businesses are open from 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday. Many stores are also open on Saturday and Sundays. Most banks are closed on weekends, with the exception of some being open on Saturday mornings.

FACTS

AIRLINES: Domestic Air New Zealand: air2there: Pacific Blue: Qantas: Sounds Air: International Air China: Air Canada: Air New Zealand: Air Pacific: American Airlines: British Airways: Cathay Pacific: Emirates: Japan Airlines: Jetstar: KLM Royal Dutch Airlines: LAN Airlines: Lufthansa: Malaysia Airlines: Pacific Blue: Qantas: Royal Brunei Airlines: Singapore Airlines: Thai Airways: Virgin Blue:

0800 737 000 0800 777 000 0800 670 000 0800 808 767 0800 505 005 +64 9 379 7696 1300 655 767 0800 737 000 0800 800 178 0800 445 442 +64 9 966 9777 0800 800 454 +64 9 968 2208 0800 525 747 0800 800 995 +64 9 921 6040 +64 9 308 3352 0800 945 220 0800 777 747 0800 670 000 0800 808 767 +64 9 977 2209 0800 808 909 1300 651 960 0800 670 000

BUS, RAIL AND FERRY TRAVEL Daily scheduled bus passenger services are available throughout the country. InterCity Coachlines operates the largest network throughout both islands, and Newmans Coachlines provides services in the North Island and on the major tourist routes in the South Island.

Most destinations have several departures daily. Reservations are recommended. Larger cities offer bus tours of the main sights or city centre, and minibus tours can be arranged for small groups.

Information on fares and timetables is available at bus depots and at Visitor Information Network offices.

Many people prefer train travel to buses, as trains in New Zealand are modern and comfortable. More information on train travel can be found at train stations, Visitor Information Network offices or by calling Tranz Scenic’s nationwide central reservation centre on 0800 TRAINS (0800 872 467).

Ferry is the usual mode of transport when travelling from Wellington in the North Island to Picton in the South Island. The fast ferry, The Lynx, will take you across Cook Strait in approximately two hours and 15 minutes. If you have more time, however, you can relax and cruise on the Interislander. The Lynx and the Interislander link with Tranz Scenic train services in Wellington and Picton.

CALLING OVERSEAS International calls can be made from most public telephones. To make an international call, dial the international access code (00), then the country code, the area code and the telephone number. If the area code you are dialling begins with ‘0’, for example London (0208), you should drop the ‘0’ from the dialling sequence: 00 + 44 + 208 + telephone number. Most public phones take cards purchased from bookstores and newsagents. Some public phones also accept credit cards, but few accept coins.

CLIMATE The north of New Zealand is subtropical while the south is temperate.

The warmest months are December through to February, and the

Akaroa. © David Ogilvie

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EMERGENCY SERVICES: Fire/Police/Ambulance: 111 Other useful telephone numbers: Local operator: 010 International operator: 0170 NZ directory assistance: 018 International directory assistance: 0172

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kinetic direct drive. generate more power. control it like never before.

dedicated to perfection

SPORTURA. In 1986, SEIKO invented Kinetic, the first watch in the world to generate, and save, its own electricity. Kinetic is powered by the motion of your body. Today, the revolution continues with Kinetic Direct Drive. The real-time power indicator shows the power you generate as you turn the crown and then the power in reserve. With anti-reflective sapphire crystal and a sure-grip sculpted crown. Because, in high speed motor sport, control is everything. seiko.co.nz

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coldest months are June through to August. In summer, the average maximum temperature ranges between 20 and 30 degrees Celsius and in winter between 10 and 15 degrees Celsius.

CURRENCY New Zealand’s unit of currency is the New Zealand dollar, comprising coins with values of 10, 20 and 50 cents, $1 and $2, and notes with values of $5, $10, $20, $50 and $100. There is no restriction on the amount of foreign currency that can be brought in or taken out of New Zealand; however, those carrying more than NZ$10,000 in cash must complete a Border Cash Report. Travellers’ cheques are typically accepted at hotels, banks and some stores, and foreign currency can be easily exchanged at various hotels and banks. Bureau de Change offices are located at convenient locations across the country, and the ASB Bank has more than 135 branches nationwide that also offer competitive rates and charge no commission when converting foreign currency into New Zealand dollars. For further information on locations and current rates visit www.asb.co.nz.

DEPARTURE TAX A tax of approximately NZ$25 has to be paid at the airport when you leave New Zealand (excluding Auckland airport).

NEW ZEALAND WELCOME TO

DRIVING In New Zealand all motorists drive on the left-hand side of the road. When turning left, give way (or yield) to traffic crossing or approaching from your right. When the traffic light is red, you must stop – there is no left (right)-turn rule as in North America. The speed limit on the open road is 100 kilometres per hour (approximately 60 miles per hour); in built-up areas the speed limit is 50 kilometres per hour. Drivers and passengers must wear seatbelts at all times. You can legally drive in New Zealand for up to 12 months if you have either a current driver’s licence from your home country, or an International Driving Permit (IDP). All drivers, including overseas visitors, must carry their licence or permit when driving. If your licence is not in English, you should bring an English translation with you or obtain an IDP. The common legal age to rent a car in New Zealand is 25 years old.

HEALTH There are very few health risks when visiting any part of New Zealand. Standards of hygiene are high and it’s safe to drink the tap water. To avoid contracting Giardia (a water-borne parasite that causes diarrhoea) it is best not to drink water from the lakes, ponds or rivers without first boiling, chemically treating or filtering it. Be aware that weather conditions in New Zealand’s alpine areas can change rapidly. Be prepared for cold wet weather if you plan to walk in national parks, whatever the time of year. Also ensure that you wear a hat and sunscreen if you plan to be out in the sun for more than 15 to 20 minutes. Insect repellent is also recommended in wetter areas, particularly in Fiordland, where sandflies can be pests.

In the case of an accident, visitors are covered by the governmentrun scheme for personal injury by accident. Claims may be lodged with the Accident Compensation and Rehabilitation Insurance Corporation (ACC) irrespective of fault. Some medical/hospital expenses and physical disability compensation is covered, but no loss of earnings outside of New Zealand is warranted. Personal travel insurance is strongly recommended. Medical services other than those necessitated by an accident are not free. ACC does not cover any medical treatment relating to illness.

PUBLIC HOLIDAYS 2010/2011 7 June – Queen’s Birthday 25 October – Labour Day 25 December – Christmas Day 26 December – Boxing Day 1-3 January – New Year 6 February – Waitangi Day 22 April – Good Friday 25 April – Easter Monday 25 April – ANZAC Day QUARANTINE AND AGRICULTURAL RESTRICTIONS New Zealand’s agricultural industries are free from many insects, pests, and plant and animal diseases that might be common elsewhere in the world. To guard against introducing these agricultural risks, strict quarantine rules are enforced at ports and airports.

TIME ZONES New Zealand is one of the first places in the world to see the new day.

It is 12 hours ahead of UCT (Universal Coordinated Time). In summer, New Zealand practises daylight saving – clocks are put forward one hour to UCT+13. Daylight saving begins on the last Sunday of September and ends on the first Sunday of the following April.

TIPPING AND SERVICE CHARGES New Zealanders do not expect tips for normal service – even in restaurants and bars. Tipping for extra special service, however, is at the discretion of the visitor. Hotels and restaurants do not add service charges to their bills.

VISITOR INFORMATION NETWORK (VIN) There are more than 100 official Visitor Information Network locations throughout New Zealand; just look for the distinctive green ‘I’ Visitor Information Network logo. FM radio stations also provide visitors travelling throughout New Zealand with information on the history and culture of areas, the availability of local services, and accommodation and activities, which are available 24 hours a day. A blue road sign tells visitors they are in a broadcast area with transmission on frequency 88.2 FM (100.4 FM for German language and 100.8 FM for Japanese language). w

EXCESS BAGGAGE

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www.jetta.co.nz

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Phone: 0800 300 688

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YOURSELF

Hello Kia ora Welcome Haere mai Please Koa Thank you Kia ora Yes Ae No Kaore Do you speak Maori?

Korero mai i te Reo Maori?

What is your name?

Ko wai tou ingoa?

My name is…

Ko… ahau Where are you from?

No hea koe?

I am from…

No… ahau How are you?

Kei te pehea koe?

I am fine thanks, and you?

Kei te pai I don’t understand Kahore e mohio au Excuse me Aroha mai How much is this?

E hia te utu?

Goodbye (said by the person leaving) E noho ra Goodbye (said by the person staying) E haere ra One Tahi Two Rua Three Toru Four Wha

Rima Ono Whitu Waru Iwa Tekau Mane Turei Wenerei Taite Paraire Hatarei/rahoroi Ratapu Awa Motu Maunga Moana Puke Rangi Wai Whenua

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Maori Cultural Performance, Waitangi Treaty Grounds. © Destination Northland

Five Six Seven Eight Nine Ten Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday River Island Mountain Sea, lake Hill Sky, heavens Water Land

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Express

Though most often recognised as an English-speaking nation, New Zealand actually has two official spoken languages: English and Maori. Here are a few key Maori words and phrases to try out during your travels. Haere mai!

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Art culture AND

The art and cultural output of the world’s youngest country, New Zealand, is no less exciting than its world-renowned geographic wonders, as Lauren Rosewarne discovers.

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© Isaac Theatre Royal

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Janice Marthen MANAGER, FORTUNE THEATRE, DUNEDIN What makes the contemporary theatre scene in New Zealand so unique?

The culture of New Zealand’s Maori people affects the language, the arts and even the accents of all New Zealanders. The influence of Maori, Pacific Island, European and Asian cultures makes the arts in New Zealand colourful, unique and vibrant.

What have been the most significant developments in theatre in New Zealand over the last decade?

The last decade has seen the development of Pasifika and Asian theatre, and the growth of multiple theatrical styles in New Zealand. This period has also seen the growth of plays with a Maori or bicultural perspective.

What contribution does the Fortune Theatre make to New Zealand’s theatre scene?

Theatre is a collaborative art form and we offer opportunities for directors, writers and actors to develop their craft while collaborating with our theatre. We recognise that if theatre is to continue to evolve and retain its relevance and quality, practitioners need to be skilled, motivated and have access to opportunities for continuing professional development. We offer artists a welcoming and supportive environment, which in turn enables them to provide audiences with the best possible performances. © Fortune Theatre

THEATRE For a country that gifted soprano Dame Kiri Te Kanawa to the world, it comes as no surprise that New Zealand boasts a vibrant opera scene.

More surprising, however, is the scope of the country’s performing arts culture that impressively encompasses ballet and music theatre, comedy and drama, and each genre in between.

Auckland The Aotea Centre is New Zealand’s largest performing arts venue, home to both the 186-seat Herald Theatre and the 2256-seat ASB Auditorium. In 2010 the Centre hosts a ballet production of the opera Carmen (July).

The spectacular Civic Theatre is another Auckland landmark, originally built as a cinema in 1929 and surviving as one of only seven ‘atmospheric theatres’ – the only one outside of North America.

The auditorium’s ceiling gives the illusion of a twinkling night sky. In 2010 the Civic will host the Royal New Zealand Ballet’s production of The Nutcracker (December). Another Auckland performing arts gem is the 700-seat SkyCity Theatre, home of the New Zealand International Comedy Festival and the Auckland International Film Festival.

Christchurch Housed in a fully restored Edwardian building, the Isaac Theatre Royal seats more than 1260 people and is as famous for its French Renaissance architecture as its stellar live performances.

Founded in 1971, the Court Theatre contributes equally to the city’s vibrant theatre scene, hosting local and international productions and being best known for its weekly Scared Scriptless improvisation show.

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Wellington First opened in 1912, the Edwardian-style St James Theatre stealthily avoided demolition in the 1980s and was treated to a multimilliondollar renovation, reopening in 1998. The theatre is home to the Royal New Zealand Ballet Company and a handful of theatre ghosts, notably Yuri, a Russian performer who supposedly fell from the stage to his death. The Theatre’s 2010 program includes a production of Miss Saigon (April). Boasting a less haunting past, the Downstage Theatre, established in 1964, is a 250-seat venue that is home to the country’s longest running theatre company.

For experimental and developmental theatre, the BATS Theatre is a 1930s venue that has long operated with a mission of fostering innovation and keeping ticket prices competitive.

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Dunedin A Gothic-styled Wesleyan church is home to the Fortune Theatre, the world’s southernmost theatre company. Fortune claims to be haunted, however, less contested is the World War II bunker contained within.

The Regent Theatre, modelled on its New York theatre namesake, equally fuses historical significance with the arts. Built in 1928 on the site of Dunedin’s most devastating fire, today the Regent hosts a broad range of live performances.

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Performers at the Polynesian Cultural Center. © S Uchan

Classical Dame Kiri Te Kanawa catapulted to worldwide stardom after performing at the 1981 wedding of Prince Charles and Princess Diana.

Dame Kiri aside, New Zealand has bred some superb classical talents, notably Generation Y soprano, Hayley Westenra, whose 2003 album Pure became the fastest selling international classical debut of its time.

New Zealand’s commitment to classical music is perfectly illustrated at the Auckland Town Hall: its Grand Hall was modelled on the Gewandhaus Concert Hall in Germany and is considered one of the world’s finest classical music venues.

Contemporary Formed in the 1970s, Split Enz – incorporating the sounds of rock, punk and pop – was one of the first New Zealand bands to achieve international acclaim; their 1980s song ‘I Got You’ put the band on many international charts. More recently Evermore, hailing from the North Island town of Feilding, is an indie rock outfit scheduled to support pop star Pink’s upcoming European tour.

The Maoris are the Indigenous Polynesian people of New Zealand and music plays an integral part of their culture.

Maori musical culture The Maoris are the Indigenous Polynesian people of New Zealand and music plays an integral part of their culture. Their musical style is a fusion of poetry, speech and song that incorporates hand carved instruments including flutes and, in more contemporary incarnations, guitars. A traditional Maori performance is kapa haka, more commonly known as the haka, which is a blend of song and dance characterised by feet stomping, bulging eyes, outstretched tongues and rhythmic shouting. Historically significant, Maori music styles are also incorporated into the repertoire of contemporary bands including Wellington’s Fat Freddy´s Drop and Te Vaka, an Oceanic ensemble describing their sound as ‘South Pacific fusion’.

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MUSIC From rock bands like Split Enz, Crowded House and The Datsuns, to bass baritone Inia Te Wiata and sopranos like Dame Kiri Te Kanawa and Hayley Westenra, a host of New Zealanders have made their mark on the international music scene.

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Wellington The Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa is one of the world’s largest national museums and focuses on five genres: art, history, Pacific, Maori and natural environment. Equally wellregarded is the City Gallery Wellington, which opened in 1980 and specialises in contemporary visual arts, architecture and design.

Wellington also offers a number of internationally reputed private galleries, notably Emerge with its glass, jewellery and sculpture displays and Photospace, which is dedicated to local photography.

In 2010, the artist-run, Enjoy Public Art Gallery is hosting New York-based artist and writer Gregory Sholette in residence.

© Christchurch Art Gallery

ART From classical to contemporary, Indigenous to international, the New Zealand art scene thoroughly spoils even the most hard-nosed of critics. From quaint boutique spaces to sprawling galleries, New Zealand has plenty to offer.

Christchurch The Christchurch Art Gallery Te Puna o Waiwhetu is the largest art institution on the South Island, boasting more than 5500 pieces, including paintings, sculpture, textiles and metalwork. In 2010 the Gallery welcomes exhibitions like Provocations, which spotlights the photography of New Zealand/UK artist Christine Webster (March to June). Contemporary art is also well-represented in Christchurch; the Centre of Contemporary Art displays the work of more than 400 cutting edge artists annually.

Private galleries in town include the Bryce Gallery in Riccarton, which focuses on contemporary art, and the Jonathan Smart Gallery, which specialises in photography, sculpture and film.

Dunedin The Dunedin Public Art Gallery is one of New Zealand’s four major art museums, showcasing works by Monet, Pissarro, Gainsborough and Turner. Dunedin’s stellar private galleries include the Quadrant, which specialises in contemporary jewellery and sculpture, and the Moray Gallery, focusing on glass and ceramics.

MAORI CULTURE No visit to New Zealand would be complete without a thorough immersion in the art and culture of the nation’s Indigenous people.

Rotorua lies on the Bay of Plenty on the North Island and is widely considered as the home of Maori culture. In 1886 the region’s Mount Tarawera volcano erupted and killed more than 100 people. Today the buried village offers visitors an intimate look at this natural disaster and the culture of the inhabitants that were affected.

Overlooking the Bay of Islands on the North Island, the Waitangi Treaty Grounds are remembered as the location where the Treaty of Waitangi was signed between the Maoris and the British Crown in 1840. The Treaty Grounds offer a number of important glimpses into Maori culture including Ngãtokimatawhaorua, one of the world’s largest Maori ceremonial war canoes and Te Whare Runanga, a carved Maori meeting house.

New Zealand’s museums have also played an integral role in helping preserve and display Maori culture. Established in 1852, the Auckland War Memorial Museum, for example, was New Zealand’s first museum with dedicated Maori galleries and today boasts the world’s most comprehensive collection of Maori taonga (treasures). The galleries contain the earliest surviving Maori carvings and include an impressive collection of fibre work including elaborate kaitakas (Maori cloaks), as well as hunting and fishing tools. Te Papa, the national museum in Wellington, also boasts impressive Maori cultural displays, notably the Mana Whenua permanent exhibition, which offers a mix of taonga, oral histories and contemporary art. w

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Auckland The Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tamaki is the largest art institution in New Zealand and boasts an expansive national and international collection. In the heart of Auckland lies the MIC Toi Rerehiko, offering a continual program of film, video, digital media, music, and live performance. A number of city hotels also boast impressive local and Indigenous art collections, notably the Great Ponsonby Art Hotel, the Regency-style mansion of Cotter House, and Auckland’s newest luxury accommodation, the Westin.

Te Papa, the national museum in Wellington, also boasts impressive Maori cultural displays, notably the Mana Whenua permanent exhibition, which offers a mix of taonga, oral histories and contemporary art.

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Rachael Slade ART CONSULTANT, CENTRE OF CONTEMPORARY ART (COCA), CHRISTCHURCH Tell us a bit about New Zealand’s contemporary art scene.

New Zealand’s distance from international art centres has meant the development of a distinctly New Zealand aesthetic that is influenced by a pride in our cultural and physical environments. Our visionary attitude and internationally emerging status means that artists are not hesitant in forging new practices and confronting traditions, which in turn invites active consideration and debate that results in a lively national art scene.

What have been some of the most significant developments for art in New Zealand?

There has been quite an obvious shift in interest from historic to contemporary art practice in the national art community. Institutions, curators and collectors have increasingly supported contemporary art practice and the resulting buoyancy has encouraged artists to push the boundaries of past rituals and aesthetics.

What contribution does COCA make to New Zealand’s art scene?

For almost 130 years COCA has acted as one of New Zealand’s most significant arts institutions. COCA provides ongoing support, promotion and exhibition of established and emerging artists, as well as adding to and maintaining a permanent collection. The gallery holds more than 60 exhibitions each year with a commitment to the work of contemporary artists.

Pou tokomanawa, Toi Te Papa Art of the Nation. © Te Papa

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Made in

NEW ZEALAND New Zealand is renowned for its untouched beauty and, while nature often produces some of the best treasures in the world, there are also a number of ‘Made in New Zealand’ products that Jacklyn Lloyd has uncovered, with a little help from the locals…

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© Nic Neish

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SWEETLY INDULGENT Remember being given a piece of toast as a child, with honey oozing over its corners? That sweet sticky substance trickling down your fingers like pure sweet gold?

Honey is one of nature’s sweetest gifts, and it has been highly cherished for centuries as a healing and nourishing substance.

Established in 1909, Honey New Zealand’s honey products are a natural and wholesome source of pure indulgence. Honey New Zealand’s beekeepers acquire their honey from thousands of beehives located all over New Zealand. Native bush honey is drawn from unique untouched forests or produced from the wild flowers growing freely in New Zealand’s countryside. Honey New Zealand’s native range includes Pohutukawa, Rewarewa, Tawari, Manuka, Towai and Kamahi honey. Most notably, native honey such as Manuka is renowned for its special anti-bacterial properties.

© Honey NZ

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CAPTIVATING JADE Jade is undeniably one of New Zealand’s most highly recognisable and precious gems. In New Zealand jade is often called greenstone, in reference to the first European explorers who came to New Zealand in the eighteenth century and saw the Maori people wearing jade tiki.

These explorers didn’t realise that the Maoris were wearing jade, and so they called this alluring gem, greenstone.

Jade continues to be a rich source of culture and adornment for many New Zealanders. There are two types of jade and their geological names are: Jadeite and Nephrite. The common name for Nephrite is greenstone or in Maori – pounamu. While many traditional designs beautifully showcase jade in its purest form, the best way to examine a piece of jade is to check for cracks on its surface and also examine the depth of its colour. You want your piece of jade to be somewhat translucent, so that the light can play off the stone and create a beautiful illumination.

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© Honey NZ

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BAA In New Zealand the ratio of sheep to people is 12 to 1. Now that means that each New Zealander could potentially own at least 30 pairs of ugg boots! While ugg boots are one of New Zealand’s much loved exports, one specific variety of New Zealand wool, with origins from the Vikings, is proving a fantastic natural fibre for making a stunning range of fashion accessories, collections for the home and baby wear. To truly experience the hard work and dedication that Stansborough bestows upon this incredible wool, it’s worth visiting ‘Experience Stansborough’ and discovering the unique story of a rare and special grey sheep that dates back to the 1890s. Stansborough is probably best known for creating the textiles for many of the costumes for films such as The Lord of the Rings and The Chronicles of Narnia. To really enjoy and learn about one of New Zealand’s greatest exports, ‘Experience Stansborough’ offers fun and informative tours through its historic weaving mill. And if you don’t have time for the whole tour, you should definitely check out the retail gallery and peruse the divine collection of luxurious fashion accessories, throws and blankets, which now grace the shelves of boutique stores in London, Paris, New York and Toronto.

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© Stansborough

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LIQUID HEAVEN Derived from the vast, crystal clear, unpolluted waters of the South Island, Waimak Mineral Water is drawn from under the Canterbury Plains. The purity and freshness of this water is bottled perfection.

Waimak Water is arguably the purest, most natural water source in the world, and its crisp freshness is reminiscent of the Southern Alps and New Zealand’s majestic snow-capped mountains. Enjoying a glass of Waimak Mineral Water is possibly one of the most rejuvenating experiences that you will have in New Zealand – unless of course you prefer bungy jumping or skydiving! © Waimak

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Currently producing more than 135 tonnes of cheese per annum, cheese maker Benny Mathews favours the Bay View Blue, and Ta Mata’s creamy cows’ milk blue cheese. To choose a fuller tasting cheese, Matthews suggests, “Washed-rind styles, like Te Mata’s Irongate, and strong blue cheeses. The riper and stronger the better!” And really, is there a better way to enjoy New Zealand than with a glass of local wine complemented by a rich and pungent blue? It’s doubtful. w

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CHEESY PERFECTION New Zealand has a considerable amount of livestock that accounts for a large quantity of meat exports and dairy products. One of New Zealand’s top cheese producers, Te Mata Cheese Co., located in Hawke’s Bay, keeps on wowing the industry with its award-winning range of creamy cheeses. Having won an impressive nine awards at the 2009 Cheese Awards, Ta Mata’s Creamy Blue won gold, and continues to delight – its crumbly texture is perfection when paired with a cracker or matched with some sweet quince paste.

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© Te Mata Cheese Co.

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THERE’S NOT MANY PEOPLE ROUND HERE I HAD A LOOK

The thing you notice most about living in a remote place is the remoteness.

Not that I really mind, it was the reason I decided to live in New Zealand in the first place. Sure it’s a pain when you have to go 10 miles to get the mail but if you ever get someone to come over to your house chances are you’ll end up living together just so she doesn’t have to drive home.

You also get to live in an environment that’s pretty much in the same condition it was before people decided to invent progress. In fact our whole economy is built on just collecting things that grow around us and sticking them on a boat.

It’s not like we have to bust a gut doing it either.

Everything grows here quite happily by itself and tastes better because of it. So it’s no surprise that New Zealand’s 42BELOW vodka has won more awards then any other vodka ever. You’d have to be a complete idiot to turn the resources we have here into something average.

ENJOY RESPONSIBLY

ENJOY RESPONSIBLY

© 2009 42BELOW, the 42BELOW bottle design and devices are trademarks and/ or registered trademarks, 42BELOW.COM

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ashion F

AN EMERGENCE OF STYLE

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New Zealand is emerging as the stomping ground for many new faces of fashion that deliver exceptionally liberal creations and pave the way for a creative industry that is undeniably world-class.

Jacklyn Lloyd examines New Zealand’s thriving fashion scene.

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© Sable & Minx

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ew Zealand is mainly known for its majestic mountains, picturesque landscapes and adrenalinfuelled pastimes. These generalisations, however, often overlook a different kind of accolade, in particular the refreshing fashion industry that flourishes within New Zealand – a country that is full of quiet achievers attaining industry acclaim and paving the way for an emerging and mesmerising fashion scene.

New Zealand has never really been compared to the big fashion capitals like London, Milan, Paris or even Australia; however, the designers that do manage to infiltrate these global fashion events – and the accompanying industry hoopla – can often find that this worldwide success is somewhat confining and bound by convention and restrictive frameworks.

While New Zealand grown designers like Collette Dinnigan have enjoyed massive international success – showcasing designs during Paris’ prestigious Fashion Week – other designers such as Theresa Brady, of the Sable & Minx label, relish New Zealand’s fertile and exciting fashion industry. For Brady, working in New Zealand is rewarding and denotes limitless opportunity. “I work in New Zealand because it is my home,” she says. “I love it because we have a market that I find easy to develop new products for, and the market is receptive to New Zealand design.” Brady also recognises the business advantages of setting up shop in New Zealand. “I think that there are more opportunities here to start up a new concept, and less competition from international and global brands,” she enthuses.

For Brady, New Zealand’s accommodating fashion industry allows her to direct her full attention to her creativity; the latest Sable & Minx collection, in particular, pays homage to Billie Holiday. “The way Billie sang around a melody, her uncanny harmonic sense and assured lyricism is always inspiring to me,” says Brady. “Every time I hear Billie sing, I think of hot summer nights, cool cocktails and music filling the air like the heady scent of flowers. And I wanted to capture that feeling of soulful optimism with the [summer ’09] collection.”

Brady’s dreamlike Sable & Minx collection was showcased at the annual 2009 Air New Zealand Fashion Week, along with Zambesi’s menswear collection, which is designed by Dayne Johnston.

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THERESA BRADY, SABLE & MINX Who are some of your favourite local designers?

Apart from my own two labels: Sable & Minx and Doosh, I like Tanya Carlson and Adrian Hailwood.

What makes Sable & Minx such a unique label?

We have unique silk prints and designs, and I have also been successful with our denim range, which has cool art deco back pocket detailing.

In comparison to Europe, the US and Australia, why do you think New Zealand is a great place for young, emerging designers?

Because we are such a young country, we have more opportunities to just ‘give it a go’ and less competition from international mega labels.

What is your favourite holiday destination within New Zealand?

With so many beautiful places to choose from, that is really hard to answer.

Anawhata Beach on the west coast of Auckland would be my personal favourite, but you can’t beat the stunning beauty of Queenstown, Wanaka and the Lakes District for year-round scenic majesty.

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Woman of style

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Man of style

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DAYNE JOHNSTON, ZAMBESI How long have you been designing menswear for Zambesi?

I’ve been designing menswear for Zambesi since 2003. I work alongside Elisabeth Findlay, who designs the women’s collections.

What do you see as the strongest trends for menswear in 2010?

We are not trend based and tend to follow our own path. I feel there is a strong return to suiting and classic enduring pieces. We produce all of our garments in New Zealand and this is something we are very proud of – achieving the highest quality. An elongation of line, refocusing proportion while still referencing traditional tailoring defines the Zambesi men’s collection.

What is it like to be a fashion designer in such a liberating country as New Zealand?

New Zealand is an isolated place, which gives you the space to breathe and be individual. You don’t have so much pressure to conform, which allows your work to be honest.

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© Zambesi

During the 2009 event, Zambesi celebrated its 30th anniversary.

Elisabeth Findlay, the co-founder of the company and its women’s wear designer, along with Dayne Johnston, has formed one of New Zealand’s most successful fashion brands. Johnston, like many other New Zealand-based designers, recognises that the annual New Zealand Fashion Week festival heralds the prominence of New Zealand’s fashion industry. “Air New Zealand Fashion Week gives us the opportunity to present our collections on our home ground, which attracts local and international media and buyers,” says Johnston.

This event, in turn, is a priceless showcase that amounts to paramount dollar and industry recognition.

Fashion Week further injects creativity into the industry with a plethora of imaginative shows taking place. For the Zambesi winter collection, Johnston enjoyed the whole process of coordinating the shows. “We do our shows off-site and it is always a great challenge to find a location that complements the mood [of our designs],” he says. “For winter 2010 we presented our collection at a theatre and the stage was used as the catwalk. The presentation of the collection was projected as a live feed on an enlarged screen that created a dramatic backdrop to the show.”

In addition to Zambesi, many of New Zealand’s most renowned style makers, such as Karen Walker, Kate Sylvester and Trelise Cooper, paraded their seasonal creations during the 2009 Air New Zealand Fashion Week. To infuse some fresh energy, young and emerging designers like Alexandra Owen and Juliette Hogan also showcased their original designs.

When reflecting on the 2009 event, Owen recognises that “New Zealand Fashion Week is a fun event, it allows us to indulge in fashion on a more showmanship level. We love styling and love the production of a show.” Furthermore, this event is a real celebration of New Zealand’s unique fashion industry.

“New Zealand is great, its isolation allows for independent ideas to emerge freely. I feel very removed from the world, but maintain a perspective on what is happening, therefore my design ideas come

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© Alexandra Owen

Woman of style COLLETTE DINNIGAN You are internationally successful; what has been your career highlight so far?

My 10-year anniversary show in Paris.

How would you describe style?

Style is innate, but understanding your personality and figure definitely helps. If you feel confident you can exude your own personal style.

Where is your favourite place to holiday?

Huka Lodge in New Zealand. The lodge is set on the most beautiful river (Waikato River). The wine list is great and the food is fabulous. I can’t wait to go back, it is such a treat! © Collette Dinnigan

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more naturally and uninfluenced while [simultaneously] aiming to be globally relevant,” says Owen.

“New Zealand is a safe place to create and test a product,” she adds proudly. “People are quite loyal to their own and interested in nurturing talent locally. Other countries in the world would see an end to your business after one bad month in business, whereas New Zealand moves along at a manageable pace, or whatever pace you choose to set for yourself.”

New Zealand undeniably boasts appealingly unrestricted fashion boundaries that allow local designers to follow their own creativity and bespoke designs wholeheartedly. While the hugely successful Zambesi brand has stores throughout New Zealand, Australia, the UK, Asia, the US and even Russia, many locally established designers recognise the value of New Zealand’s fashion industry and wouldn’t trade it in for anything. w

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New Zealand is great, its isolation allows for independent ideas to emerge freely. ALEXANDRA OWEN

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Timeless

CLASSICS

Elton John watch with baguette diamonds.

Courtesy LK Fine Watches and Jewellery

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Classic timepieces are forever timeless. Whether you like to sparkle with a showstopper piece, or you prefer understated craftsmanship, no doubt the watch on your wrist right now speaks volumes, as Jacklyn Lloyd discovers, all with the faint sound of a tick tick tick‌

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T026.420.17.281.02

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Dive

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Logbook

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Compass

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2 Time zones

promotus 1828

More than a watch Tissot, Innovators by Tradition.

316L stainless steel, Scratchproof tactile sapphire crystal, Swiss ETA movement, Water resistant to 200m/660ft.

Tissot is available from selected jewellers throughout New Zealand. Call 0508 566 300 for your nearest stockist.

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www.tissot.ch

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Showstoppers

1. Chopard.

Courtesy LK Fine Watches and Jewellery

SPARKLE AND SHINE WHENEVER YOU FEEL LIKE A BIT OF DRAMA

WOMEN’S 1. Chopard’s stunning yellow diamond High Jewellery watch is set with yellow diamond briolettes, totalling 167 carats and 1060 brilliant-cut diamonds totalling five carats.

2. The Omega Constellation Luxury Edition watch has been created to express the values of the ’09 Constellation collection in the most glamorous way imaginable. Features include an 18-carat white gold case and bracelet, and a mother of pearl dial set with round diamonds in a random distribution called a ‘snow setting’.

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3. Boucheron’s Reflet pavé diamond watch in white gold features a baguette diamond index along with 552 diamonds on the face, case and bracelet.

2. © Omega

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3. Boucheron.

Courtesy Luxury Goods Australia

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MEN’S 1. The limited edition rose gold Master Grand Tourbillon from JaegerLeCoultre was released to commemorate its 175th anniversary. The Tourbillon watch features a titanium carriage and a leather wristband, and there are only 575 models available worldwide.

2. The Rolex white gold Day-Date II watch with a President bracelet features a pavé diamond dial and a bezel set with 80 baguette diamonds, totalling 3.47 carats.

3. Vacheron Constantin’s Kalla Lune watch features a diamond set moonphase and a total of 840 diamonds set in white gold totalling approximately 42 carats. w

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2. Rolex.

Courtesy J Farren-Price

3. © Vacheron Constantin

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1. Jaeger-LeCoultre.

Courtesy J Farren-Price

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© Pegasus Bay

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Pegasus Bay. © Dean MacKenzie

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Wine F

Nicole Haddow swirls her wine glass and experiences the robust, nutty, crisp and fruity notes that embody New Zealand’s plethora of wine varieties.

CONNOISSEUR

or many of us, perfection is often served in a wine glass, and New Zealand is definitely doing its bit to serve up perfection on a global scale. Wine production is not restricted to any one area in this country, although it is fair to say that Marlborough is particularly well-known for its crisp and light sauvignon blanc.

Jim Veitch, general manager of the über-successful Giesen Wines, says, “[There’s been] a very positive response from our consumers throughout the world who appreciate the highly differentiated aroma, taste and fruit driven flavour characteristics of Marlborough sauvignon blanc.”

I’m a longstanding fan of this particular drop and I know that I’m not alone in this sentiment. But how does Marlborough sauvignon blanc get to be so incredibly tasty? Veitch explains that it’s dependent on the grape growing conditions. “Marlborough is one of New Zealand’s sunniest and driest areas and, in these relatively cool climate conditions, the grapes have the advantage of a long, slow, flavour intensifying ripening period,” he says.

The Marlborough region consistently wins international acclaim.

“Marlborough’s sauvignon blanc is certainly setting new trends

internationally, especially in Australia where the sauvignon blanc category continues to grow,” Veitch notes.

While Marlborough is undeniably one of the most popular wine regions in New Zealand, Auckland also boasts an impressive wine industry. Auckland saw the industry begin in an almost accidental manner. Bill Spence, general manager, Foster’s Group (Matua) New Zealand, explains, “The wine industry in Auckland started mainly through the Dalmatians that travelled to New Zealand to dig kauri gum to export to England for lacquer to be painted on wood to act as a varnish.”

Eventually the excellent soil almost inevitably caused many of the Dalmatians to become winemakers. “Many of these first winemakers grew to have companies that started in Auckland, such as Montana, Babich, Matua, Villa Maria, Delegat’s, Selaks and Kumeu River – all with Dalmatian heritage,” Spence says.

One of the magnificent things about New Zealand’s wine industry is the fact that the wine is part of an all-encompassing experience; it is perfectly matched with gourmet food and salty ocean air.

Neroli Gold, a shareholder in the Kaikoura Winery, says that the wineries founding shareholders felt that it was time to embrace their natural surroundings and encapsulate the magnificent outlook that the

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EDWARD DONALDSON, MARKETING MANAGER, PEGASUS BAY What do you think makes New Zealand such a fertile ground for producing great wines?

Because we are a fairly long and skinny country, we have a vast difference in climatic conditions from the top of the North to the bottom of the South Island and for this reason we can produce a wide variety of styles. We are considered viticulturally as a cool climate and have a significant difference between our day and night temperatures, which is very important for flavour development in cool climate varieties such as riesling, pinot noir and sauvignon blanc.

How do you think New Zealand wine ranks in an international market?

New Zealand holds its own very well on the world stage, in particular our sauvignon blancs and pinot noir, but more recent varieties such as riesling, chardonnay and, in particular, syrah are receiving accolades. Our style is different to a lot of other new world countries due mainly to our climate. People enjoy the freshness and tightness of New Zealand wines that go well with food as opposed to the bigger, richer styles present in warmer climates.

If I were eating a medium-rare steak, what wine would you match to my meal?

I would go with a pinot noir depending on the other components of the dish.

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A fine drop

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© Amisfield Wine Company © Amisfield Wine Company

FLEUR CAULTON, GENERAL MANAGER, AMISFIELD WINE COMPANY What makes Amisfield a unique destination?

Amisfield Farm is high in the Southern Alps, 45 degrees south of the Equator. The alpine climate is near perfect for fantastic pinot noir and aromatic white wines.

Would you consider Amisfield a smaller, boutique winery?

And why is this important?

Amisfield is a small boutique business where everything is ‘Grown, Not Made’ and we pride ourselves that all our wines are estate grown in a fully sustainable vineyard. We also have the luxury of full-time vineyard crew who since 1999 have hand nurtured the vines. We hand pick all our grapes to allow our winery team, headed by winemaker Claire Mulholland, to produce small volumes of award-winning wines.

What do you think is the most popular wine variety for 2010 and why?

Pinot noir is our most popular variety; it is the speciality of the Central Otago region and it is gaining popularity worldwide. Pinot noir is a very difficult variety to grow, hence there are only very few regions around the world that can grow it successfully.

Amisfield Pinot Noir 2007 has already won international accolades and it is drinking exceptionally well. It received Blue Gold at the Sydney International Wine Show.

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A fine drop

Cutting the Pinot grapes. © Pegasus Bay

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A refined palate

operates the Pegasus Bay winery in Waipara Valley, share Tulloch’s outlook on small-scale wine production and, although Pegasus Bay does distribute wine internationally, this is a family-run business that has produced wines since the early 1970s. The quality of their wine and their sustainable approach to winemaking is reflective of a smallscale business mentality.

It seems though that consumers regulate the marketplace quite naturally when saturation occurs. Surely there are only so many glasses of sauvignon blanc that one can consume before succumbing to a bored inebriation. That’s probably why many of us will naturally gravitate towards new varieties as they present themselves.

2008 and 2009 saw the rise of rosé. But what comes first – the variety or the taste for it? Gold says, “We decided to make a rosé for two reasons. Some of the fruit was not up to standard to make it into a straight pinot noir, and we also get quite a lot of Europeans visiting our cellar door who like a glass of rosé with lunch.”

While rosé has its place in the New Zealand market, according to James Halliday, wine connoisseur and author of the Australian Wine Companion, it is pinot noir that’s seeing a strong demand in the Australian, US and UK markets, and in 2010 we should see a distinctive growth in this variety.

Regardless of your preferred drop, however, pinot gris, pinot grigio, shiraz, chardonnay, rosé, sauvignon blanc… It’s all here and it’s all delicious. Cheers. w

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New Zealand wine industry affords. “Our tasting room overlooks the vast expanse of the Pacific Ocean and round to the towering Seaward Ranges,” says Gold.

So, as New Zealanders kick back and swirl wine around their palate, it must be easy to become smug and complacent about producing unsurpassable wine varieties in one of the most breathtaking locations in the world. But Gold will have none of that. “We need to continue to make sure we maintain the standard – as more and more grapes come on line it may become difficult for some people to sell their grapes for premium prices,” she warns. “You may see some [wines] flooding the market.” Sure, with all good things comes the inevitable market saturation. To help manage this, Gold supports industry regulation, “The Wine Institute of New Zealand is working really hard to get growers to understand the consequence of the marketplace.”

To help combat commercial market saturation, Janine Tulloch, general manager of the Martinborough Vineyard in Wairarapa, points to the value of being involved in a small wine region. “We only produce around four percent of the country’s wines,” she says. “This means that there are no large scale wineries or multinational companies here, just a few hands-on, driven and passionate winemakers all focusing on producing quality, not quantity.”

There are many small-scale wineries like the Amisfield Wine Company in Otago that pride themselves on being a specialised boutique winery. Similarly, the Donaldson family, who owns and

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JAMES HALLIDAY, WINE CONNOISSEUR AND AUTHOR OF THE AUSTRALIAN WINE COMPANION What do you see as the upcoming trends for wine in 2010?

New Zealand has a surplus of sauvignon blanc as acute as the surplus of chardonnay in Australia. Pinot noir, on the other hand, is on an upward trajectory, with strong demand for the variety in Australia, the UK and the US. New Zealand is uniquely well-positioned to take advantage of this. The less obvious star of the future is shiraz, with Hawke’s Bay the epicentre.

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Sport

New Zealand sport is defined by passion and adventure. Eli Glasman guides you through the adrenalin-fuelled sporting experiences that are on offer in this unique country.

IN NEW ZEALAND

HORSERACING Horseracing is one of the most majestic, historic and culturally rich events on all world stages. Requiring the collaborative efforts of trainers, institutions and, of course, the horses themselves, breeding and racing horses is a subtle and complex achievement mastered over many years of dedication.

Thoroughbred racing in New Zealand dates back to 1814, when pioneers like Henry Redwood paved the way for renowned horses like Phar Lap, Kindergarten, Sunline, Carbine and Gloaming, who have all been inducted into the New Zealand Bloodstock Racing Hall of Fame.

Since 1882, New Zealand-bred horses have won 40 Melbourne Cups, while 19 New Zealand thoroughbreds have won 22 group one races around the world.

Governed by New Zealand Thoroughbred Racing Incorporated, New Zealand’s breeding of thoroughbreds is an illustrious and prominent industry that highlights New Zealand’s impressive sporting standards.

Whichever way you choose to burn off some energy, every activity on offer in New Zealand is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to enjoy some unforgettable experiences.

CRICKET Originally an English sport, cricket has been adopted by New Zealanders to a point where they are now taking on countries twice their size in population and coming out victorious.

Cricket is played in venues of all shapes and sizes: from Northland backyards to impressive test venues such as Auckland’s 45,000-seater Eden Park or the historic Basin Reserve in Wellington, overlooked by Mount Victoria.

For those unfamiliar with the sport, cricket is a fairly slow paced game; the true secret to enjoying a game of cricket is getting to know the players and witnessing the immediate stand-off between batsman and bowler.

In order to ease into the lengthier version of the game (a ‘test’ game is played for two to five days), there is a compressed version of the game, known as Twenty20, which is played over a few hours and has a famously electric crowd atmosphere.

New Zealand’s national cricket team, known as the Black Caps, has been at the forefront in the cricketing world for many years. It is the only team that can boast two members who have achieved the all-rounder’s double, which consists of 3000 test runs and 300 test wickets.

OUTDOOR ADVENTURE After you have sampled New Zealand’s spectator sports it’s time to discover your own inner thrillseeker and allow New Zealand to accommodate your adrenalin-seeking curiosity.

On land there is the opportunity to bungy jump from 134 metres suspended above a river, snowboard through New Zealand’s Southern Alps, abseil down a rocky cliff face, kayak over fast rapids on the Wairoa River or windsurf through Lake Rotorua.

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RUGBY William Webb Ellis supposedly started the game of rugby in 1823, when he slipped the ball under his arm and ran towards the opposition goal while playing football. Close to 200 years later, it is hard to find a New Zealander who is not a loyal rugby fan.

Ever since the first game of rugby was played in New Zealand back in 1870, the sport has formed a major part of the country’s national identity. Between 1888 and 1889, the original team of All Blacks undertook the longest tour to date, visiting the UK. This team was made up entirely of the native Maoris, and it was through the infusion of the Maori culture to the sport that the tradition of the haka came to be.

Today, at the beginning of every rugby match, the All Blacks perform the haka, a Maori challenge or war dance that was once an important social custom for tribes in New Zealand. The haka performance involves a series of strong moves and quivering hands accompanied by a chant, which is used to intimidate the team’s opponents.

Alongside other traditions, an impressive part of a rugby game is when a player is hoisted up by a group of teammates to catch the ball mid-air. With 15 players on each team, a game of rugby is a fast paced and exciting 80-minute display of strength and resilience.

The New Zealand Rugby League team, known as the Kiwis, are the current Rugby League world champions, while the All Blacks rugby team have been dominating Rugby Union for years and are currently ranked at number one on the International Rugby Board (IRB) world ranking.

Currently, there is an infectious excitement in the air as New Zealand prepares to play host to the Rugby World Cup in 2011.

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Sporting legend

On the other hand, if you’re after something a little quieter, there is always the option of fishing for trophy-sized salmon in the South Island.

Bungy Pioneered by AJ Hackett and Henry Van Asch in the 1980s, the first commercial bungy jump took place from a height of 43 metres at Kawarau Bridge, near Queenstown.

Today the highest point to jump from is a gondola suspended 134 metres above a canyon. There are a variety of jumping options available when taking the leap. You can wear a full harness, strap yourself to a simple rubber rope or even, in some instances, plunge yourself completely under water before you are thrust back upward.

There are a number of bungy operators in New Zealand including AJ Hackett Bungy in Auckland and Queenstown, and Thrillseekers Canyon, located 137 kilometres north of Christchurch.

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Jet boating Developed by Bill Hamilton in 1953, jet boating involves flying across the water at thrilling speeds in a speed boat equipped with a highpowered engine.

Most definitely an extreme sport, jet boating has become a staple sporting activity in New Zealand and certainly complements all other adventure sports within the country.

You can find jet boating operators at many locations throughout New Zealand, including Jet Thrills in Christchurch, Agro Jet in Rotorua, and Kawarau Jet and Shotover Jet in Queenstown.

Whichever way you choose to burn off some energy, every activity on offer in New Zealand is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to enjoy some unforgettable experiences. w

© Positively Wellington Tourism

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© Auckland Bridge Climb and Bungy

STEVE KEARNEY Your victory over Australia in the 2008 Rugby League World Cup is a fantastic achievement. Do you feel that there is something specific about New Zealand’s sporting spirit that aided in this result?

Without a doubt, we [the team] certainly have a very strong bond, and this, I feel, had a major bearing on the execution of specific responsibilities by everyone on the night.

What can someone who has never watched a Rugby League game expect from the sport?

A high intensity contest between wonderful athletes, involved in heavy collisions, played at high speeds with unrivalled skills and strength.

What is your favourite aspect to the game of rugby?

Apart from the athletic aspect of our sport, it is the camaraderie and friendships that evolve when you are involved with elite sporting teams.

What separates rugby from other sports, such as the NFL (National Football League)?

Rugby League is unique in so many ways. If you are comparing it to the NFL, the padding is the most glaring difference. Americans are always commenting on how they can’t believe that our players aren’t wearing any protective padding. Rugby is physical yet skilful, and it’s played at a frantic pace. The speed of the game is faster than ever before and it’s showing no signs of slowing down.

If you weren’t involved with rugby, what sport would you like to play?

Boxing definitely appeals to me. The physicality of the sport is only one aspect. You have to outsmart your opponent if you are going to defeat them. I’ve been fortunate to spend some time recently with [Australian champion boxer] Danny Green and the discipline he has is unbelievable.

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EVENTS CALENDAR THE AUCKLAND TRIENNIAL body

CAPE BRETT CHALLENGE

RALLY NEW ZEALAND

Date: 12 March to 20 June 2010

Date: 17 April 2010

Date: 6 to 9 May 2010

New Zealand’s leading contemporary art exhibition promises to be an exciting addition to the international arts calendar. With a focus on interactive and collaborative art practice, this event boasts a program brimming with new creative works and lively forums.

Location: The Auckland Art Gallery and other venues throughout Auckland Tel: +64 9 307 7700 www.aucklandtriennial.com

Winding through 37 kilometres of native bushland, the Cape Brett running track combines steep climbs and descents, rugged terrain and glorious coastal views that will truly challenge and reward outdoor-sports lovers.

Location: Cape Brett, 450 kilometres from Auckland Tel: +64 9 403 8253 www.capebrettchallenge.co.nz

Get close to the action and experience the thrills and spills of the demanding off-road New Zealand rally course that sweeps through the boundless northern countryside. Speed and skill combine as racing champions battle against the clock in a fleet of touring cars.

Location: Auckland City, Whangarei and Raglan Tel: +64 9 276 0882 www.rallynz.org.nz

NEW ZEALAND FASHION WEEK

THE COROMANDEL POHUTUKAWA FESTIVAL

Tara Cunniffe © Air New Zealand Fashion Week / Michael Ng

Date: 20 to 24 September 2010 New Zealand’s premier fashion event provides the perfect platform to showcase the finest creations from an exclusive collection of established and emerging designers. The catwalk comes to life with a seasonal fashion preview that features famed New Zealand designers like Karen Walker and Zambesi.

Location: Viaduct Harbour, Auckland Tel: +64 9 377 8033 www.nzfashionweek.com

Date: 20 November to 6 December 2010 The Pohutukawa Festival launches into summer with a celebration of New Zealand’s culture, music and landscapes. The festivities include live bands, contemporary art exhibitions and family-friendly activities.

Location: The Coromandel, 130 kilometres from Auckland Tel: +64 7 868 0471 www.pohutukawafestival.co.nz

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© Pohutukawa Festival

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NORTH ISLAND White Island Volcano. © White Island Tours

Skydiving. © Taupo Tandem Skydiving

WAITANGI TREATY GROUNDS

WHITE ISLAND VOLCANO

READING CINEMAS GOLD LOUNGE

Overlooking the Bay of Islands, the Waitangi Treaty Grounds has just as much beauty as it does history. It was here that the treaty between the Maori people and the British Crown was signed back in 1840. Learn about the importance of this moment and the significance of the site through guided tours and cultural performances.

Address: 1 Tau Henare Drive, Paihia Tel: +64 9 402 7437 www.waitangi.net.nz

Ever dreamed of walking through an active volcanic crater? Have those dreams realised at the spectacular White Island marine volcano. The White Island volcano is located 49 kilometres off the coast of Whakatane and is accessible by boat or helicopter. The journey itself is just as enthralling as the destination.

Address: 15 The Strand East, Whakatane Tel: +64 7 308 9588 www.whiteisland.co.nz

If you enjoy the finer things in life, you’ll adore an evening at the Reading Cinemas Gold Lounge, located at the Reading Cinemas in Courtenay Place.

The Reading Cinemas Gold Lounge is the ultimate luxury cinema experience. Cosy into a comfortable armchair and enjoy a glass of wine from the fully licensed lounge bar, while you choose from a selection of movie blockbusters delivered in a state of the art theatre.

Address: Level 2, 100 Courtenay Place, Wellington Tel: +64 4 801 4610 www.readingcinemas.co.nz

ZEALANDIA SKY TOWER

THE KAURI MUSEUM

One of the largest trees in the world, the Kauri is known for its immense size, beautiful timber and fascinating gum – some of which is 43 million years old and fossilised. Learn the story of the Albertlanders’ pioneering days through the use of this intriguing tree and witness its beauty and majestic scale first-hand.

Address: 5 Church Road, Matakohe, Northland Tel: +64 9 431 7417 www.kauri-museum.com

Experience a glimpse of what New Zealand’s habitat was like before humans arrived. The Karori Sanctuary aims to achieve a 500-year vision of restoring a corner of the land back to its former natural glory. Walk among the beautiful bushland and view some of the country’s most iconic native animals, including the little spotted kiwi.

Address: End of Waiapu Road, Karori, Wellington Tel: +64 4 920 9200 www.visitzealandia.co.nz SKY CITY

This premiere entertainment destination right in the heart of Auckland’s CBD has enough glitz and glamour to surpass even the most well-travelled jet setters’ expectations. With a world-class casino boasting more than 100 gaming tables, five-star hotels, and 18 restaurants and bars, get ready to be pampered and indulged.

Address: Corner Victoria and Federal Streets, Auckland Tel: +64 9 363 6000 www.skycityauckland.co.nz

TE PAPA MUSEUM

With collections that span five genres: art, history, Pacific, Maori and natural environment, Te Papa is New Zealand’s impressive national museum. This innovative space features exhibitions that are interdisciplinary and interactive, creating a dynamic environment that best represents the community.

Address: 55 Cable Street, Wellington Tel: +64 4 381 7000 www.tepapa.govt.nz WAITOMO ADVENTURES

Lose yourself in a subterranean wonderland as you discover hidden cave formations and fascinating glow-worms. Waitomo Adventures allows you to access this aweinspiring environment and take part in the action and excitement of caving adventures.

Float down an underground river or immerse yourself into the belly of the cave with a seven-hour, 100-metre abseil.

Address: Waitomo Caves Road, Waitomo Tel: +64 7 878 7788 www.waitomo.co.nz

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The tallest man-made structure in New Zealand, Auckland’s Sky Tower stands at 328 metres and offers breathtaking views in every direction. The Sky Tower also has cafés and restaurants, three observation platforms and a gift shop, so you could probably spend your whole day here soaking up the sky-high sights. For a quick way down, why not end your day with a SkyJump right off the Tower!

Address: Corner Victoria and Federal Streets, Auckland Tel: +64 9 363 6000 www.skycityauckland.co.nz

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Must Do’s Auckland Bridge Climb. © Auckland Bridge Climb and Bungy

TAUPO TANDEM SKYDIVING

HUKAFALLS JET

WAIHEKE ISLAND

Taupo Tandem Skydiving will give you the ultimate adrenalin rush. Exit the plane at up to 15,000 feet and feel the rush of a one-minute free fall before coasting back down past snow-capped volcanoes to the beautiful Lake Taupo shore.

Address: Depart from Anzac Memorial Drive, Taupo Airport Tel: +64 7 377 0428 www.taupotandemskydiving.com

Beautiful rivers, rock cliff faces and natural hot springs: sounds like a little slice of paradise, doesn’t it? Offering you a combination of excitement and natural beauty, a 30-minute ride on the Hukafalls Jet boat will leave you feeling alive and utterly rejuvenated.

Address: Wairakei Park, Taupo Tel: +64 7 374 8572 www.hukafallsjet.com

WHANGANUI NATIONAL PARK

AUCKLAND MUSEUM

A 40-minute ferry ride from downtown Auckland lies the idyllic Waiheke Island – perfect for a relaxing day trip. The island is a picturesque blend of farmland, forest, beaches, vineyards and olive groves. Spend the day exploring the beautiful beaches and coves, or hop from vineyard to vineyard on a wine tour and sample some of New Zealand’s exceptional wines.

Address: 2 Korora Road, Oneroa Tel: +64 9 372 1234 www.waiheke.aucklandnz.com

Rich in Maori and colonial history, the Whanganui National Park is set on the banks of the majestic Whanganui River and features some of the most dense forest in New Zealand. Explore this beautiful area by canoeing down the river, or stay on foot and meet at a rendezvous point for a boat ride back to the mainland.

Address: Whanganui National Park, Central North Island www.whanganuinationalpark.com

The Auckland Museum is the place to go and learn about the compelling history of New Zealand, its place in the Pacific and its people. Established in 1852, the museum is renowned for its unique collection of Maori and Pacific treasures. See the significance of the museum’s collections for yourself by participating in a guided tour or by visiting the daily exhibitions.

Address: The Auckland Domain, Parnell, Auckland Tel: +64 9 309 0443 www.aucklandmuseum.com

EXPERIENCE STANSBOROUGH

Journey to Middle Earth and experience the land of the hobbits, elves and orcs alike, or for those with more courage, knock on the doors of Mordor for true cinematic delight. Visit the sights of the critically acclaimed The Lord of the Rings film trilogy and transport yourself to another world.

Address: Forest Lodge, Owhango, Mount Ruapehu Tel: +64 7 895 4773 www.forest-lodge.co.nz

AUCKLAND BRIDGE CLIMB AND BUNGY

SAIL NZ

Feel the sensation of ‘walking on water’ with AJ Hackett’s Auckland Harbour Bridge bungy jump. One of the world’s first bridge bungy jumps will see you launch yourself from the specially constructed bungy pod.

Don’t fret though if bungy jumping isn’t your cup of tea, instead you can enjoy an hour and a half Bridge Climb and take in the stunning views of Auckland from a less daunting vantage point.

Address: Westhaven Reserve, Herne Bay, Auckland Tel: +64 3 442 4008 www.bungy.co.nz

In Auckland it’s a must to get intimate with the ocean. Sail NZ offers the unique opportunity to experience sailing an America’s Cup yacht. During this sailing adventure, passengers become the crew and are encouraged to participate throughout the tour. This is your holiday after all, however, so you can also choose to just sit back and enjoy the action as you sail on the Waitemata Harbour. w Address: Booking Kiosk, Viaduct Harbour, Auckland Tel: +64 9 359 5987 www.explorenz.co.nz

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Enter the world of Narnia and follow the story of how a rare breed of grey sheep and historic weaving looms has produced some of the most unique costume textiles and accessories in the world. Hear how it all began, from 18 years of selective breeding, then see the incredible textiles and sophisticated fashion accessories being traditionally created from this rare fibre.

You can also take home your own unique keepsake or an authentic costume from films like The Lord of the Rings or The Chronicles of Narnia.

Address: 100 Hutt Park Road, Seaview, Wellington Tel: +64 4 566 5591 www.stansborough.co.nz

THE LORD OF THE RINGS TOUR

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Hukafalls Jet. © Hukafalls Jet/Ngai Tahu Tourism

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WELCOME TO Auckland Auckland is one of the North Island’s most vibrant and cosmopolitan cities as Nyssa Veraphunt discovers…

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But it is not just on the water where all the action happens; the city itself always has something going on.

In Auckland there’s a constant parade of events, with everything from theatre and arts events to international sporting fixtures. Currently there is a wave of anticipation as the city prepares for 2011 when it will stage the world’s third largest sporting event, the Rugby World Cup. In addition to sporting accolades, Auckland is characterised by approximately 50 volcanic mounds, the most famous of which is the 183-metre-high One Tree Hill or Maungakiekie (mountain of the kiekie), where you can take in a panoramic view of the city. One Tree Hill is steeped in history and cultural significance – hundreds of years ago it was a fortified Maori village. In 1988 it

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uckland is more than just a city – it’s like an entire country in one place. There is a huge array of different experiences only 30 minutes’ drive from the downtown area. You can sit on a golden sand beach by the Pacific Ocean or have lunch at an island vineyard.

Or perhaps you may like to picnic on a volcano, explore the rainforest and then get a fix of world-class shopping followed by an inner city experience by night.

With two harbours, beaches, bays and more boats per capita than anywhere else on earth, it is no wonder Aucklanders spend almost as much time on the water as they do on dry land. In this ‘City of Sails’ pastimes include boating, fishing, snorkelling, kite surfing, kayaking, and whale and dolphin watching.

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Just like its art, Auckland’s shopping and fashion scene is thriving. Local designers such as Karen Walker and Little Brother have made a huge impression on the international fashion stage. Both brands have stores in Auckland with the latest jewellery and fashion for men, women and children.

Other attractions in the city include the Voyager New Zealand Maritime Museum, the Auckland War Memorial Museum, the Auckland Zoo and Kelly Tarlton’s Antarctic Encounter and Underwater World, as well as the city’s many gardens and local farmers’ and art and craft markets.

Auckland is the ideal base from which to explore the surrounding areas. Hauraki Gulf, for example, has a number of charming islands only a short boat trip away from the city, with attractions such as wineries, secluded beaches, forests and farmland.

A 30 minute drive west of the city will take you to the rugged, black sand surf beaches of Piha and Muriwai.

They’re perfect for surfing or a stroll at sunset.

But above all of the city’s awe-inspiring landscapes, cultural landmarks and activities, the standout aspect of Auckland is its people, who are an eclectic bunch each with their own unique story.

Auckland is a vibrant fusion of cultures and ethnicities with the largest Polynesian community in the world, as well as strong European and Asian influences. Testament to this is the variety of cuisine that has been brought to New Zealand by its many migrants. Auckland provides a gourmet adventure for food lovers and it’s easy to discover the area with your tastebuds. Start with yum cha in the morning. Then walk off the dumplings in the west coast rainforest with a swim in the surf to finish. Head to Mission Bay for a coffee and ice-cream, and then take a ferry to Waiheke Island for a top-notch meal at one of the many wineries, while looking back over extinct volcanoes and the cityscape.

For anyone still not convinced to visit Auckland – put simply, you’d be mad not to visit and take the time to meet with the locals and discover the region’s secrets all for yourself. w

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Auckland harbour. © G Mewnz

With two harbours, beaches, bays and more boats per capita than anywhere else on earth, it is no wonder Aucklanders spend almost as much time on the water as they do on dry land.

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became world famous as the inspiration for U2’s hit song by the same name. The song was dedicated to Bono’s close friend Greg Carol, a native Maori New Zealander.

Today, One Tree Hill is a popular picnic area and also home to the Stardome Observatory.

For another perspective of the city you should visit Sky Tower. At 328 metres high, it is one of the tallest structures in the southern hemisphere and affords 80-kilometre-long, 360-degree views of the surrounding area. Enjoy a meal in the revolving restaurant, followed by an exhilarating stroll around the open-air walkway – 192 metres above the ground. For the more adventurous, there is the SkyJump, which is a base jump that sees you fall at 85 kilometres per hour for 11 seconds (while attached to a wire), before coming to a smooth stop. Or try the SkyWalk and walk around the tower’s rim with nothing but air on either side of you – not for the fainthearted!

For a different kind of thrill, visit New Zealand’s largest collection of art at Toi o Tamaki, the Auckland Art Gallery. Built in 1888, the gallery has more than 14,000 pieces, some dating as far back as the 13th century. The gallery has everything from Maori artefacts to contemporary New Zealand works. The Anna Miles Gallery and Artspace are also worth a visit for those interested in local art.

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THE LONELY DOG GALLERY 20 Customs Street East, Britomart, Auckland Tel: +64 9 550 7170 Email: info@lonelydogauckland.com Web: www.exhibitionsgallery.co.nz

The Lonely Dog Gallery and the world of Lonely Dog attract both serious art collectors and those who just love a great story. Visit The Lonely Dog Gallery and become part of the magic.

to the book that tells LD’s life story, ‘The Gold Almalogue’.

Opening hours: 10.00-6.00 Tuesday-Friday 11.00-4.00 Saturday-Sunday-Monday

Through the skills and talent of New Zealand artist, Ivan Clarke, Lonely Dog is set to become a global phenomenon. This is surely a result of not only the quality of the artist’s work but also the viewer’s ease of identifying with Ivan’s Alveridgean characters and their antics downtown “Houndside”. These dudes give us a way to laugh at others, and ourselves as we identify a mimicking of human expressions and foibles. The Academy Award winning Weta Workshop has created the Bronzes, and Warner Brothers have taken up the film rights

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AUCKLAND MAP

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the

ferry

OPEN SEVEN DAYS

building

Quay Street, opposite Downtown Auckland

One of Auckland’s best known landmarks, the Ferry Building was completed in 1912 for £67,944. Between 1957 and 1963 it is reported to have been steam-cleaned for almost half as much again — £30,000.

The Edwardian Baroque building was designed by Alex Wiseman and is built of sandstone, brick and Coromandel granite.

Today it is still the focal point for the commuter ferries which link Downtown Auckland with the North Shore and the many islands of the Waitemata Harbour.

It also includes a number of booking services for sightseeing tours, a magazine kiosk, money exchange, coffee shop, gelato and sorbets parlour, and two excellent restaurants which look out over the harbour.

• Harbour Sushi

• Harbour Information Centre Ph: 0-9-357 0550 • Ferry & Cruise Companies Fullers Cruises, Ph: 0-9-367 9111 • Change Group Foreign Exchange • Newspapers, Magazines Ferry Stop, Ph: 0-9-309 8336

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• Coffee Shop Seattle Espresso, Ph: 0-9-358 1929 • Gelato and Sorbets Valentino’s Gelato, Ph: 0-9-358 0091 • Excellent Restaurants Cin Cin On Quay, Ph: 0-9-307 6966 Harbourside Seafood Bar & Grill, Ph: 0-9-307 0556

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A PERFECT DAY Parnell Jacklyn Lloyd suggests the perfect way to spend an unforgettable day meandering through Auckland’s charming local suburbs.

9am Parnell is known for its welcoming village feel. Start your day at one of Parnell’s cosy cafés and take the time to enjoy a Frenchinspired breakfast at Citron Vert.

10.30am After breakfast visit the Mana Gallery and work your way through Parnell’s eclectic collection of galleries, as this area is recognised as one of Auckland’s leading arts precincts.

12pm To further fuel your cultural sightseeing, lose yourself in Parnell’s picturesque streets and soak up the magnificent architecture that is reminiscent of a quaint 19th century town.

1.30pm If you’re in need of a little sit down to rest your weary feet, head to the Iguacu Restaurant & Bar for lunch. The menu here is constantly evolving and incorporates the latest in Pacific Rim cuisine.

© Auckland City Council

© Iguacu Restaurant & Bar

5pm After you’ve spent the day visiting all of Parnell’s charming attractions, top your day off with a leisurely walk through the beautifully blooming Parnell Rose Garden.

8pm For a fabulous dinner and some accompanying cocktails, reserve a table at Cibo, a local restaurant that is nestled in the old chocolate factory on St Georges Bay Road.

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3pm What better way to work off lunch than with some shopping? Meander through Parnell Village at the top end of Parnell Road and check out the impressive fashion boutiques scattered throughout. You’ll also find some terrific antique and jewellery stores within this area.

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visit parnell

new zealand’s oldest suburb Famous for its art galleries, cafés, restaurants and boutique-style stores, Parnell is unapologetically indulgent, and ush with style. Shopping is leisurely and eating is too. Not another mall and a mad dash, Parnell is a place that invites you to explore, stay a while and savour the ambience.

‘Must sees’ in Parnell include St Mary’s in Holy Trinity Cathedral, Auckland War Memorial Museum, and the renowned Parnell Rose Gardens – overlooking Auckland Harbour and picture perfect in summer.

Parnell is only 10 minutes from downtown Auckland by Link Bus. Ask for a free map of local attractions at Parnell shops.

Find out what’s on in Parnell at www.parnell.net.nz

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A PERFECT DAY Ponsonby 9am Begin your day with a good cup of coffee on Ponsonby Road; this main strip is lined with fabulous cafés and restaurants. For a gorgeous breakfast treat, visit Café People – the peach crêpes served with berries and mascarpone cream are utterly divine!

11am After breakfast a visit to the Letham Gallery is highly recommended. This art gallery is housed in a historic brick building in the heart of Ponsonby and its exhibits include works from a variety of local contemporary artists.

1pm When it comes to lunch you will be spoilt for choice in Ponsonby. With a range of French, Italian, Indian, Japanese, Malaysian, Turkish and Pacific Rim fusion cuisine available, you’ll have your work cut out for you deciding on where to eat. Prego and Bella Restaurant are great suggestions.

2.30pm After lunch it might be a good idea to head back to your hotel room and have a quick rest before strapping on your walking shoes again and heading to the market. © Café People

© Vinnies Restaurant

4.30pm If the Victoria Park Market has ignited an urge for you to shop, continue your spending spree along Ponsonby Road, which boasts numerous exclusive boutiques and craft studios, where you can purchase brightly glazed ceramics and a colourful assortment of crafts.

6.30pm Ponsonby is renowned for its upmarket fine dining options, so why not treat yourself to a special and memorable meal at Vinnies Restaurant, which offers diners a delectable degustation menu perfectly matched with a selection of wines?

9pm To top off your evening of decadence, end with a glass of bubbly at any one of the exclusive nightspots located along Ponsonby Road.

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3.30pm To pick up some unique trinkets, jewellery or local produce, such as delicious NZ honey, head to Victoria Park Market. Located nearby on Victoria Street, it’s a wonderfully historic market perfect for perusing at your leisure.

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A PERFECT DAY Newmarket 9.30am Enjoy a long and lazy breakfast at Urban Café and prepare yourself for a fun day filled with lots and lots of shopping.

11am Newmarket is renowned for its unsurpassable shopping opportunities, so once you have eaten breakfast, keep your credit card on hand and start your retail adventure on Broadway in Newmarket, which boasts fabulous fashion boutiques and the Westfield 277 shopping centre.

1.30pm You must be starving after all of your retail therapy and luckily Newmarket has a great selection of local restaurants and cafés. For lunch Zarbo is a delicious option, serving mouthwatering deli treats, as well as tempting cakes and pastries.

© Tourism Auckland

3.30pm To ensure that you make the most of Auckland’s cultural scene, a must-visit is the nearby Auckland Museum. Just a five-minute drive from the centre of Newmarket, the Auckland Museum is a fantastic venue that impressively showcases New Zealand’s fascinating culture through a variety of ever-changing exhibitions.

6.30pm Newmarket is filled with plenty of shopping destinations that will definitely keep you occupied all day long, but possibly the best way to really savour Newmarket’s ambience is to enjoy a relaxing dinner on Teed Street and take the time to appreciate some of New Zealand’s awardwinning wines.

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8.30pm If you still have any energy left for a nightcap and perhaps some supper, visit the Carlton Club, one of Newmarket’s oldest landmarks – it dates back to 1887. w

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© Auckland City Council

2.30pm After lunch it’s definitely worth visiting Nuffield Street, which boasts high-end boutiques like Alannah Hill, Karen Millen, Gas and Trelise Cooper Kids, as well as a selection of jewellery, accessory and homewares stores.

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THIS IS THE PLACE s LARGEST RETAIL AND LEISURE OFFER IN .EW :EALAND s FULL BUS RAIL SERVICE s MINUTES FROM THE !UCKLAND #"$ Ph 64 9 570 3777

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Shopping in Newmarket. © Tourism Auckland

© Smith and Caughey’s

SHOPPING in Auckland Experience Auckland’s unsurpassable range of shopping precincts as suggested by Madonna Bowe.

Shopping bag one: CITY CENTRE

Smith and Caughey’s

In 1880 Marianne Smith opened her own drapery store, Smith and Caughey’s, which today remains a traditional shopping experience. There is an unbeatable selection of local and international fashion labels like Missoni, Collette Dinnigan, Hugo Boss and Trelise Cooper.

In order to accessorise your fashion pieces, Smith and Caughey’s also stocks a great range of jewellery, luggage, giftware and fragrances.

Address: 261 Queen Street, Auckland Central Tel: +64 9 377 4770 www.smithandcaughey.co.nz

Located in the hub of Auckland’s entertainment and business precinct, the Atrium on Elliott centre houses cafés, a florist, jewellery stores and fashion boutiques like George Harrison, which specialises in business and casual wear for men, featuring well-known European brands like Versace, Cantarelli and Ted Baker.

Address: 21-25 Elliott Street, Auckland Central Tel: +64 9 375 4960 www.atriumonelliott.co.nz

Shopping bag two: NEWMARKET

Shopping in Newmarket is a thrilling experience, as the window displays alone will get your heart rate up.

Newmarket is arguably the fashion capital of New Zealand, so have your credit card on hand and check out some of these locations: Rialto Centre

Located in the heart of Newmarket, the Rialto Centre has been voted as one the best shopping precincts in Auckland. Boasting an enviable mix of more than 25 fashion and homewares stores, labels include Cue, Max Fashions, Bendon Lingerie, The Homestore, Kevin Berkahn and Brave.

Address: 163 Broadway, Newmarket Tel: +64 9 984 6210 www.rialtocentre.co.nz

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Auckland is renowned for its highly competitive retail market, where elegant stores throughout the CBD temptingly display the best international and local designer labels. Your first stop should be on High Street, where designer boutiques like Workshop offer major international brands like Marc Jacobs, Twenty8Twelve, Vanessa Bruno and See by Chloé. But if you’re after a mix of both international and local brands, check out some of these suggestions:

Atrium on Elliott

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Auckland CBD. © Kieran Scott and Tourism New Zealand

Elegant stores throughout the CBD temptingly display the best international and local designer labels.

Westfield 277

Newmarket’s Westfield shopping centre has a fabulous mix of stores that offer the best brands in beauty, jewellery, music and, most importantly, fashion. Handbag and accessory labels include Oroton, Aquila and Biani footwear, while Country Road, Polo Ralph Lauren, Hugo Boss and Veronika Maine cover fashion.

Address: 277 Broadway, Newmarket Tel: +64 9 978 9400 www.westfield.co.nz/newmarket

Shopping bag three: PONSONBY

Ponsonby Road is more of an alternative shopping strip, lined with an eclectic mix of boutiques, retail stores and wonderful art galleries. To pick up some souvenirs and homewares, visit: Macy Home

Peruse beautiful pieces of art, homewares, clothing, gifts, eyewear and jewellery.

Address: 63 Ponsonby Road, Ponsonby Tel: +64 9 361 3388 www.ponsonbyroad.co.nz

Shopping bag four: Parnell has a charming village atmosphere and is wellknown for its galleries, cafés, restaurants and boutiques.

While visiting Parnell, you should check out some of Auckland’s finest sweets: Chocolate Boutique

The award-winning Chocolate Boutique specialises in gourmet chocolates and decadent treats like cakes, hot chocolates and an assortment of enticing desserts. Enjoy your own sweet treat, or purchase a hamper or gift basket to make someone’s day. w Address: Shop 1, 323 Parnell Road, Parnell Village Tel: +64 9 377 8550 www.chocolateboutique.co.nz

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PARNELL

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CAST GLASS WAKA - SHONA FIRMAN

visit. 3/323 parnell road parnell, auckland call. +64 9 377 0417 www.managallery.co.nz

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Howick Village Market

Howick Village Jeweller

The Antique Shop

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While visiting Howick you will find a vibrant and cosmopolitan village with an element of the yesteryear. For a relaxing stay, visit one of the charming Bed & Breakfast establishments in Howick, so you can leisurely explore and enjoy the beautiful east coast of Auckland.

through the Historical Walk – or visit the Howick Historical Village, located about 6 kilometres away in neighbouring Pakuranga. Spend an hour or so at any one of the local beaches or take the lovely coastal walk either to, or from, Mangemangeroa Reserve. The Reserve is about 4 kilometres outside the Village on the road to Whitford and Maraetai. For walks and other local information, visit the Howick Information Service, open Monday-Friday: 10.00-4.00 and Saturday 10.00-12noon

Howick itself has a good selection of pavement cafĂŠs, bars and restaurants that jostle with boutique specialty shops. Visit Uxbridge Creative Centre for cultural and artistic programs, and displays. Discover the rich heritage of Howick, once the seaside destination for Aucklanders,

HOWICK VILLAGE MARKET Enjoy the freshest of seasonal fruits, vegetables, jams and chutneys. From the bakery: artisan breads, pastries, cakes and biscuits. If you are in search of local produce, choose from smoked and fresh fish, gourmet muesli, pasta, and peruse a

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Just a 25-minute drive from Auckland City is the delightful seaside village of Howick.

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selection of arts and crafts from talented locals who endevour to tempt the most discerning of tastes.

For those with a green thumb, the garden is also catered for with bromeliads, orchids and succulents derived from many countries. There is something for everyone. Held every Saturday from 8.30-12.30.

HOWICK VILLAGE JEWELLER For more than 20 years, the Howick Village Jeweller has created their own exquisite designs boasting international quality and style, highlighted with New Zealand flair and influence, which has won them a number of prestigious jewellery awards. An extensive selection of jewellery is available for purchase from the showroom, or you may wish to commission a unique piece of your own. Tax-free shopping is available when travelling overseas.

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Merrell

Monterey Art Gallery

MONTEREY ART GALLERY 5 Cook Street Howick Tel: +64 9 532 9022 Email: info@montereyartgallery.co.nz Web: www.montereyartgallery.co.nz The Monterey Art Gallery nestled in Howick Village offers a unique opportunity to access a variety of art from a diverse range of contemporary New Zealand artists. The Monterey offers a broad spectrum of original paintings, ceramics, sculpture, glass and jewellery. We offer personalised service and export internationally.

604C Port Road Whangamata Tel: +64 7 8658405 Web: outofdoors@ihug.co.nz Merrell inspires the outdoor lover and traveller in everyone, offering both men’s and women’s footwear and clothing, boasting optimum comfort, performance and style. Come and see the largest range of Merrell footwear and apparel in New Zealand.

Opening hours: Monday-Friday 9.00-5.30 Saturday 9.00-5.00

THE ANTIQUE SHOP 27 and 31 Picton Street, Howick.

Tel: +64 9 5339427 Tel: +64 9 5334665 Email: theantiqueshop@xnet.co.nz Web: www.theantiqueshop.co.nz Just a 25-minute drive from Auckland’s CBD, The Antique Shop is a family run, long established business, offering two retail showrooms in the main street of the quaint seaside village of Howick. We boast the largest range of antique and collectable items in the Auckland region and the owner has personally selected all pieces.

Specialising in estate jewellery, antique furniture, china, clocks and numerous collectables.

Opening hours: Open 7 days a week

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Opening Hours: Monday-Friday 9.30-5.00 Saturday 10.00-3.00

MERRELL 41 Picton Street Howick Tel: +64 9 5355287

Monterey Art Gallery

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By Jane Puckey Monterey Art Gallery

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DINING in Auckland Sam Eichblatt takes a culinary tour of Auckland’s finest restaurant locations.

CLOONEY 33 Sale Street, Freemans Bay Tel: +64 9 358 1702

FRENCH CAFÉ 210 Symonds Street, Newton Tel: +64 9 377 1911

Clooney regularly updates its menu to reflect the changing seasons, with many dishes showcasing a European influence, matched with an innovative flair.

The crispy confit duck leg served with Pedro Ximénez prunes, creamed parsnip and apple and elderflower jelly is a beautiful example of head chef Des Harris’ ingenuity.

French Café’s understated façade hides one of Auckland’s most consistently awarded restaurants. French Café has a beautiful menu that offers modern European cuisine, which changes monthly to reflect the season’s best produce. This ‘café’ is a sophisticated restaurantstyle establishment that offers elegant dishes like sautéed langoustine tails served with potato gnocchi, pancetta and smoked bacon foam.

DINE SkyCity Grand Hotel, 90 Federal Street Auckland City Tel: +64 9 363 7030

Dine is an impressive venue that was masterfully designed

by Tom Skyring. The furnishings at Dine lend a sense of occasion to Peter Gordon’s signature fusion dishes, which combine pan-Asian, Pacific and European ingredients, each underlined by an equally impressive wine and cocktail list.

KURA SAKE BAR 315B Queen Street, Auckland City Tel: +64 9 379 5656

Kura is one of Auckland’s most well-regarded modern Asian restaurants, and its diverse range of Japanese fusion cuisine is offset by an extensive sake list. Enjoy traditional Japanese favourites, or sample a more unusual dish such as wasabi octopus.

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© Soul Bar & Bistro

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Des Harris HEAD CHEF, CLOONEY How does your menu accommodate seasonal produce?

All of our menus are created around the seasonal availability of produce.

How is Auckland a unique dining destination?

Auckland is unique because it incorporates many culinary influences and brings them together as its own.

What is your signature dish?

Ostrich carpaccio with foie gras mousse, Medjool dates, pickled shiitake and Oloroso sherry jelly.

In a few words how would you describe Auckland?

Auckland boasts a dynamic and captivating lifestyle.

MEREDITHS 365 Dominion Road, Mount Eden, Auckland City Tel: +61 9 623 3140

It is only in its second year of operation, but Merediths is receiving praise from gourmet professionals and punters alike for its adventurous take on food. While the menu may indeed be creative, each dish is beautifully presented and thoughtfully conceived. Why not try a main course of pork served with a carrot marmalade, black pudding and cinnamon – an interesting and delicious combination.

With a menu featuring fresh and consistently good rustic Italian food, this Ponsonby trattoria – in particular its enclosed, tree-shaded courtyard – is still the best place to unwind and relax with friends with a plate of calamari and a bottle of chilled pinot grigio.

SOUL BAR & BISTRO Viaduct Harbour, Auckland City Tel: +64 9 356 7249

Overlooking the harbour, Soul’s large terrace is one of the best places in the Viaduct to soak up the sun and do some people watching. Although the phenomenal view can be distracting, what Soul really does best, is serve delicious food. It must be said that the highlight of an overall great menu is the seafood, which includes everything from fresh oysters to scampi cocktails.

THE ENGINE ROOM 115 Queen Street, Northcote Point Tel: +64 9 480 9502

THE GROVE Saint Patrick’s Square, Wyndham Street Auckland City Tel: +64 9 368 4129

The Grove offers imaginative flavour combinations demonstrated in dishes like chocolate panna cotta sprinkled with white pepper. Boasting a spot-on tasting menu, The Grove also offers Auckland’s only dessert degustation menu. In addition to fabulous food, The Grove, located on a pretty square by St Patrick’s Cathedral, also wins plaudits for the sophisticated charm of its dining room.

THE JERVOIS STEAK HOUSE AND SALOON 70 Jervois Road, Herne Bay Tel: +64 9 376 2049

The Jervois Steak House and Saloon has a decidedly masculine edge. Starters like calamari schnitzel and Alaskan king crab with chipotle are all preludes to the main showstopper: steak. Feast on man-sized portions of steak, including Angus and Wagyu beef, served in a variety of ways. Vegetarians and seafood lovers are also well-catered for. w

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The Engine Room is an unpretentious, yet elegant North Shore bistro, with a great reputation for good service and superb food. Recommended dishes include the twicebaked goats’ cheese soufflé and for something sweet, why not try the breakfast churros – so sugary and satisfying.

© Clooney

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PREGO 226 Ponsonby Road, Ponsonby Tel: +64 9 376 3095

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No trip to the waterfront is complete without a visit to The Viaduct Grill.

This casual waterside restaurant has quickly earned a reputation amongst locals and visitors alike for serving some of the best steak and seafood in Auckland.

The Viaduct Grill boasts a thoughtful wine list and it is almost impossible to go past ordering a nice bottle of chardonnay while soaking up the atmosphere.

A great place for your next celebration.

The service is relaxed and friendly and the harbour view displays what the Auckland waterfront is all about.

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95–97 Customs Street West Viaduct Basin, Auckland Tel: +64 9 307 0995

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THE VIADUCT GRILL

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dine out in Parnell, Auckland a world of choice

Only minutes from downtown Auckland, in the heart of New Zealand’s oldest suburb, Parnell Road is famed for its charming village character and vast choice of cafés and restaurants.

Take your taste buds on a world tour with Parnell’s smorgasbord of 32 ne restaurants!

EUROPEAN Eternity Bar & Café 320 Parnell Road ph 373 5092

IRISH The Bog Irish Bar 196 Parnell Road ph 377 1510

Nori Japanese Restaurant 112 Parnell Road ph 309 3059

THAI Siam I Am 123 Parnell Road ph 368 4424

Iguacu Restaurant & Bar 269 Parnell Road ph 358 4804

ITALIAN La Bocca Italian Restaurant & Café 251 Parnell Road ph 375 0083

Renkon Parnell 211 Parnell Road ph 307 8008

Thai Friends Restaurant 311 Parnell Road ph 373 5247

KOREAN New Koa Restaurant 317 Parnell Road ph 379 9360

THAI/MALAYSIAN Kopi-O Café Gallery 391 Parnell Road ph 309 3780

MEDITERRANEAN Di Mare Café 9/251 Parnell Road ph 300 3260

The Java Room 5/317 Parnell Road ph 366 1606

TriBeCa Restaurant & Bar 8 George Street ph 379 6359 FRENCH Antoine’s Restaurant 333 Parnell Road ph 379 8756 St Tropez Restaurant & Bar 149 Parnell Road ph 309 0996

La Porchetta Pizza Restaurant 167 Parnell Road ph 309 0807 Milano Italian Pizzeria Restaurant 111 Parnell Road ph 379 0906 Non Solo Pizza 259 Parnell Road ph 379 5358

La Cigale Parnell 69 St Georges Bay Road ph 366 9361

Portofino Restaurant 156 Parnell Road ph 373 3740

INDIAN Athidi 4/323 Parnell Road ph 358 2969

JAPANESE Gion Japanese Restaurant 195 Parnell Road ph 379 3344

Oh Calcutta 151 Parnell Road ph 377 9090 Shahi Indian Experience 115 Parnell Road ph 377 7898

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Karin Japanese Restaurant 237 Parnell Road ph 356 7101 Moto Sushi Bar 305 Parnell Road ph 358 1610

MODERN NEW ZEALAND Mink Café 99 Parnell Road ph 377 7035 Red Brick Kitchen & Bar 46 Parnell Road ph 377 2170

DESSERT CAFÉ Chocolate Boutique Café 1/323 Parnell Road ph 377 8550 www.parnell.net.nz

Cibo Parnell 91 St Georges Bay Road ph 303 9660 Veranda Bar & Grill 279 Parnell Road ph 309 6289 RUSSIAN Vintage Café 1/333 Parnell Road ph 550 6962

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KHAO

Atrium Elliot 7-37 Elliot Street, Auckland Tel: +64 9 379 6996 Fax: +64 9 379 0283

Corner Chancery and O’Connell Streets Auckland Central Tel: +64 9 377 5088 Fax: +64 9 377 5077 Web: www.khao.co.nz

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are Peking duck, Szechuan chilli beef and chicken, Gon BO chicken, fillet of beef Cantonese style, honey king prawns and the Dragonboat seafood combination in phoenix nest. Dragonboat Auckland is fully licensed.

Opening hours: 9.30am - 3.30pm 5.30pm - 10.30pm

For the best Thai food in Auckland visit Khao Thai Cuisine.

Voted the best Thai, by the Café Annual with Michael Guy’s Eating Out. Voted Best Thai Restaurant 2006 in Auckland

by Metro Magazine “While the food, service and decor made the greatest impression, it’s worth noting that Khao has a much better wine list than any 31650_2

Thai place I’ve been to in years.”

Experience what Aucklanders look for in quality Thai dining at this delightful restaurant. Mention this ad for a complimentary offer.

Opening hours: Lunch: Mon to Fri 12:00pm - 2.30pm Dinner: Mon to Sat 5:30pm - late

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Dragonboat Auckland is centrally located within walking distance from the major hotels. Popular with locals and tourists alike, it serves delicious Cantonese cuisine and dishes from other provinces of China, and is especially known for its yum cha lunch that is prepared by experienced Hong Kong chefs.

The current signature dishes

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Sam Eichblatt takes you on an enviable tour of Auckland’s colourful nightlife.

KHUJA LOUNGE Level 3, 536 Queen Street Auckland City Tel: +64 9 377 3711

The Khuja Lounge operates from the third floor of a Heritage building situated at the top of Queen Street. The relaxed ambience at Khuja’s makes this venue a great spot for an early evening drink, while later on in the night live bands spark up the atmosphere and get everyone onto the dance floor.

THE HOUSE BAR Level 1, 2 High Street Auckland City Tel: +64 9 925 9000

Originally a grocery store owned

by Croatian winemaker Joseph Jakicevich, today Dida’s is a lively local favourite run by his descendants. Dida’s offers more than 100 wines that are available by the glass, each complementing an excellent range of tapas. © The House Bar © Gypsy Tea Room

SPQR 150 Ponsonby Road Ponsonby Tel: +64 9 360 1710

This hotspot never wanes in popularity. SPQR’s street-side tables turn the footpath into a social event, while the service – faultless but full of character – provides the entertainment. Add great cocktails, a delectable wine list and perfect pizzas, and you can’t go wrong.

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Located inside the iconic and recently renovated Hotel DeBrett, this cosy, wood-panelled bar has had a revamp, while maintaining its original art deco style.

Choose from a range of classic cocktails, boutique beers or a glass of local wine.

DIDA’S WINE & TAPAS LOUNGE 54 Jervois Road Ponsonby Tel: +64 9 376 2813

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MO’S Corner Wolfe and Federal Streets Auckland Central Tel: +64 9 366 6066

Hidden down a quiet street in the city centre, this delightful little corner bar is everything a local should be: atmospheric, friendly and effortlessly cool. Sample Mo’s range of cocktails and well-chosen wines, and enjoy mingling with the locals.

MONDIAL 549 Great North Road Grey Lynn Tel: +64 9 376 6682

Run by a Spaniard and a Frenchman, it’s no wonder why stepping into Mondial is like entering the embassy of a panEuropean country. Mondial offers delicious tapas alongside a fine range of European wines, including the renowned Lustau sherry brand.

SHANGHAI LIL’S 133 Franklin Road Freemans Bay Tel: +64 9 358 0868

Possibly Auckland’s most eccentric and atmospheric venue, Lil’s is filled with owner Russell Green’s enormous collection of oriental and art deco designs.

Enjoy sipping on an Asian-inspired cocktail while relishing the music of Shanghai Lil’s resident pianist.

GYPSY TEA ROOM 455 Richmond Road Grey Lynn Tel: +64 9 361 6970

A shabby-chic hotspot at the hub of colourful Grey Lynn; the Gypsy Tea Room offers a compact list of wines and daily blackboard specials that feature tempting sharing plates of risotto balls, or chorizo and roasted vegetables with aioli.

GALATOS 17 Galatos Street Newton Tel: +64 9 303 1928

© SPQR

RACKET BAR 6-10 Roukai Lane, Britomart Auckland City Tel: +64 9 309 5852

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Tucked away in the up-and-coming Britomart precinct, Racket Bar is an atmospheric venue that manages to cover all bases. It features indoor tables and a relaxed outdoor seating area (warmed by a large fireplace), tapas-style food and, later on in the evening, the furniture is pushed back and the DJ takes over. w

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© Khuja Lounge

This is the place to experience Auckland’s local and international live music scene, with a program ranging from experimental electronica to Afro-Caribbean beats. While Galatos does offer a great drinks menu, its main drawcard is the live music that filters throughout the venue and creates a spirited atmosphere.

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WELCOME TO Northland Nyssa Veraphunt welcomes you to Northland, a magical place with a rich history that is complemented by an abundance of natural splendour.

your way through Northland and watch an underwater world of unique flora and fauna, ancient volcanoes, sunken ships and one of the world’s largest sea-caves, Riko Riko in the Poor Knights Islands.

Located 60 kilometres north-west of Whangarei, the Bay of Islands offers another water wonderland, as it consists of a natural harbour with an irregular 16-kilometre wide inlet and comprises 144 islands and secluded bays of azure blue waters and golden sand. Hire a boat, join a charter or take a sea kayak and weave your way through the islands’ interesting nooks and crannies.

And if you’re lucky enough, you may just spot a big marlin, whale, penguin, dolphin or gannet.

Inland from the Bay of Islands are the Haruru Falls, which in Maori means ‘big noise’ because of the gushing sound the waters make as they rush around its unique horseshoe shape.

The best way to experience the waterfall is by foot; take a stroll alongside the Haruru River, which about 200 years ago had more than 100 Maori villages along its banks. Just watch out for the resident water monster, which according to legend lurks at the foot of the falls.

Ninety Mile Beach is another of Northland’s ‘must sees’ and while it may only be 55 miles (88 kilometres) in length, the scenery here does not disappoint. Situated on the western coast of the region, this almost straight expanse of beach is famous for its surfing – of both the dune and the wave kind. You should also try to take a trip to Ahipara at the southern end of the beach, as it boasts Shipwreck Bay – the watery grave of many sunken ships that are still visible at low tide.

For an adventure of the gastronomic kind, try some of the locally grown produce, particularly the subtropical fruit and vegetables, which are perfectly cultivated in the region’s temperate climate.

Northland’s other culinary prizes include a variety of white and red wines yielded from the region’s wineries, as well as locally made cheeses, chocolates, salami, honey and roasted coffee beans. It’s also good to know that local restaurants have an esteemed focus on serving up the best of the area’s produce.

Blessed with an abundance of treasures on and off the land, your time in Northland will be filled with discovery and adventure, just as the Maori warriors found here all those years ago. w

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egend has it that around 1000 years ago courageous Maori warriors set out across the Pacific Ocean from their mythical homeland of Hawaiki to forge a new life in an unknown land. With little more than the ocean currents, the stars and the thirst for discovery to steer them, they landed in what is today known as New Zealand’s Northland region.

While a lot has changed since the first Maoris settled here, the sense of exploration and adventure associated with this region has not been lost. You will know exactly what this means when you set foot in Northland and set out to explore its pristine forests, untouched beaches and plethora of sights, tastes, activities and adventures.

The Northland region parts the Tasman Sea and the Pacific Ocean at its northern tip, and stretches more than 13,800-square kilometres to its southernmost points, which are a pleasant 60-minute drive north of Auckland.

There is no doubt that Northland is the birthplace of the nation and an ideal place to discover New Zealand’s colourful past. In fact, Northland’s shores are not only where the first humans arrived in New Zealand, but also where Europeans made permanent contact with the Maoris. In Northland the first sealing and whaling settlements were also established and, after much dispute, the Treaty of Waitangi, which united Maori and European settlers, was signed in 1840.

The history of the region can also be found in Northland’s deep and luscious forests, such as Waipoua Forest and the Trounson Kauri Park. Here, you are able to come face-to-face with some of the local flora and fauna, in particular, the Kauri tree, which dates back to prehistoric times. This tree is a spectacle in itself with its thick trunk and towering height, growing up to 50 metres.

Outside of the forest, take a sand bus, quad bike or horse-ride over Northland’s beaches or hit a few balls on one of the area’s many golf courses.

But just as there is an entire world to discover on land, there is another one waiting to be explored on, near and under the water.

Tall ships, charter yachts, catamarans, jet boats and even tinnies (small tin boats with outboard motors) offer different ways with which to explore Northland’s waterways. The best way to appreciate the water here, however, is in a swimsuit. You can swim, snorkel or dive

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WELCOMERotorua TO S

ituated on the shores of a large lake and nestled in the crater of an ancient volcano, Rotorua is one of New Zealand’s most famous and long established travel destinations, renowned for its spectacular geothermal landscape.

Located on the central North Island, approximately 230 kilometres southeast of Auckland, Rotorua was first settled by the Maori people in the 14th century. The name Rotorua literally translates as ‘second lake’, as it was the second lake that was discovered by the Maori settlers during an inland expedition.

A marvellous discovery, Rotorua soon became host to numerous European visitors as word spread of its miraculous healing waters in the early 1870s.

Today, it is known as New Zealand’s hub of rejuvenation and relaxation. The four primary geothermal areas:

Tikitere (or Hell’s Gate), Whakarewarewa, Waimangu and Wai-O-Tapu, offer healing hot springs and mud pools, spa treatments, massage, cultural tours and the experience of getting up close to Rotorua’s unique landscape.

The area is situated on the ‘Pacific Rim of Fire’, a seismic belt that encircles the basin of the Pacific Ocean.

When you arrive in Rotorua you will encounter a strong sulphurous odour that is a distinctive smell in this area.

While the smell may be distinctive, it is a prelude to the naturally occurring hot springs, bubbling mud pools and breathtaking geysers that define the region.

One of the most popular geothermal destinations is Tikitere, which was given its English name, ‘Hell’s Gate’, by visiting English playwright, George Bernard Shaw in the early 1900s. A walk around the 0.2 square kilometres (50 acres) of Rotorua’s most active geothermal park is far

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Rotorua is the meeting place of the devilish and the divine and, as Jamie Cooke realises, an ideal destination for relaxation and adventure.

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Lady Knox Geyser. © Pichugin Dmitry

from a stroll to perdition. Fumaroles, bubbling pools and Kakahi, the southern hemisphere’s largest hot waterfall, make for breathtaking sightseeing.

The Hell’s Gate and Wai Ora Spa, situated in the grounds, provide a more tangible way of experiencing the terrain, with your very own mud bath. The Maoris considered the sulphurous mud as a panacea and they may very well have been right. Bathing in the natural thermal waters or mud is known to treat a number of ailments. The minerals are known to soften the skin, soothe skin ailments such as sunburn, alleviate muscle and joint pain, and improve blood circulation.

If something more decadent is in order, the Polynesian Spa, located in central Rotorua, is situated in a picturesque lake setting and is one of Rotorua’s most luxurious and award-winning spas. Boasting 26 hot mineral spring pools and a number of facial and body treatments and massages, the Polynesian Spa is continually voted among the top 10 (medical and thermal) spas in the world and affords many treatments to rejuvenate the weary traveller. Once you have completed your pampering session, it is definitely worthwhile booking a table at the Aorangi Peak Restaurant, a sublime dining experience situated on a mountain top, offering fusion-based cuisine and breathtaking views overlooking the lake and township.

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Thousands of years in the making, Wai-O-Tapu (Maori for ‘sacred waters’), is Rotorua’s self-professed ‘Thermal Wonderland’ and provides the unique opportunity to gaze into the depths of New Zealand’s largest mud volcano. As Rotorua’s most colourful geothermal area, it also features the intriguing Champagne Pool, Bridal Veil Falls and the truly impressive Lady Knox Geyser, which is triggered to erupt at heights of up to 20 metres at 10.15am daily.

For a dose of cultural insight, Whakarewarewa, a shortened version of the name, Te Whakarewarewa O Te Ope Taua A Wahiao, meaning ‘The uprising of the warriors of Wahiao’, is a traditional Maori village, open daily to the public to showcase Maori culture, tradition and history. Here you can experience cultural performances such as the karanga (a formal call of welcome), the haka (a traditional male dance to prepare for war) and the hangi, a feast prepared by placing an ‘oven’ or a covered box, over a newly created fumarole and letting the steam cook the vegetables and meat within.

Continue your cultural foray into the region’s history at the Rotorua Museum of Art and History, situated in the grounds of the beautiful Government Gardens.

The museum hosts several permanent and travelling exhibitions, which illustrate Rotorua’s rich history, culture and age-old legends. To view the work of some of New Zealand’s more contemporary artists, the Red Spot Gallery host’s regular exhibitions by established artists, as well as an emerging artists program that ensures there is always something new and innovative to view.

If after all this relaxation it’s time to get the blood flowing again – after all, what would a New Zealand holiday be without a little adventure – why not stand on the lip of New Zealand’s most active volcano with a scenic tour to White Island hosted by Volcanic Air Safaris?

Situated 50 kilometres off the Bay of Plenty, White Island is believed to be more than 150,000 years old and offers visitors the thrill of bright yellow sulphurous vents and the rumbling of the earth just below your feet.

If you wish to experience the magnificent scenery of Rotorua at a decidedly slower pace, you could take

Champagne Pool at Waiotapu Thermal Wonderland. © S Herpa

advantage of one of the region’s many walking tracks. The Cultural Heritage Trail offers an expanse of city gardens, historical architecture and even a bird sanctuary, while hiking up Rainbow Mountain or to Tarawera Falls offers an experience for the more intrepid traveller, with the option of a little adventure kayaking at the completion of the trail.

With its spectacular scenery, cultural heritage and the opportunity for adventure, Rotorua truly captures the heart of New Zealand. w

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The name Rotorua literally translates as ‘second lake’, as it was the second lake that was discovered by the Maori settlers during an inland expedition.

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Top of Mountain Road Rotorua, New Zealand Tel: +64 7 3470036 Fax: +64 7 3460571 Web: www.aorangipeak.co.nz

There is no other view like the one you’ll experience from Aorangi Peak Restaurant, showcasing a splendid panorama of Rotorua, the spiritual home of New Zealand culture. Aorangi Peak Restaurant is just a 15-minute scenic drive from central Rotorua and boasts the highest viewpoint in the district.

A long, long, time ago when the Maori of Aotearoa (New Zealand) first arrived, Ihenga, the grandson of the great explorer, Tamatekapu, discovered and named Lake Rotorua. Mount Ngongotaha, the peak of which was known as Te Tuahu a te Atua (The Altar of the God) was the chief home of the ‘fairy people’, where Arorangi Peak Restaurant is situated today.

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As an iconic restaurant they have won many awards including the New Zealand Lamb Cuisine Award and recently the Beef & Lamb Hallmark of Excellence Award in 2010.

Visitors often describe them as one of the most memorable moments in their journey through New Zealand.

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Spirit of Rotorua

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WELCOME TO Lake Taupo and Ruapehu I

f you like the outdoors, you’ll love the heart of the North Island, namely the Lake Taupo and Ruapehu regions. Offering an abundance of adventure activities set against one of the most unique and awe-inspiring backdrops imaginable, this part of New Zealand is utterly magical.

The Lake Taupo and Ruapehu regions sit on a volcanic plain that was defined some 26,000 years ago by an eruption so big that ash from the blast has since been found in drilled ice cores as far away as Greenland. The blast also created a 606-square kilometre basin, with a circumference of 193 kilometres, which today is filled by Lake Taupo, New Zealand’s largest lake.

Lake Taupo forms the lifeblood and centrepiece of New Zealand’s Central Plateau, and is supported by the towns of Taupo and Turangi. It also feeds many of the surrounding waterways, including New Zealand’s longest river, the Waikato, which runs 425 kilometres north-west to just below Auckland – the only river in New Zealand to run south to north.

Lake Taupo’s clear and calm waters also attract water sport enthusiasts from around the globe, as it is the perfect spot for jet boating, kayaking, scenic cruising, diving, parasailing, wakeboarding, swimming, sail boating, water skiing, jet skiing and just about any other water sport that you can think of.

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The term ‘open-air adventure’ has never had so many different meanings, as Nyssa Veraphunt discovers while traipsing through the volcanic wonderland that is New Zealand’s Central Plateau.

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The Maori translation for Ruapehu means ‘exploding pit’, which is apt, as it is one of the world’s most active volcanoes and has experienced an eruption as recently as 2007.

In winter Ruapehu turns into a playground for snow sport enthusiasts, who clamber to the mountain’s two commercial ski fields – Whakapapa (New Zealand’s largest) and Turoa. These ski areas also offer summer

Tongariro National Park. © Visit Ruapehu

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The Central Plateau is supported by a network of several other waterways and rivers, which, along with Lake Taupo itself, are also popular among avid trout fishermen. In fact the Lake Taupo region has been touted the trout fishing capital of the world and, as a result, the area hosts international anglers throughout the year who compete for the biggest and best New Zealand trout, which are prized for their size. Strangely enough, however, these fish aren’t native to the region as all Kiwi trout have their roots in the northern hemisphere. The brown trout found in the Central Plateau’s local waterways are descendants of the English variety and, remarkably, all of New Zealand’s rainbow trout were bred from a single batch of eggs brought from California’s Russian River more than a century ago.

Mount Ruapehu is the other main feature of the Central Plateau region and is situated about 15 kilometres southwest of Lake Taupo in the Tongariro National Park. The reserve is New Zealand’s oldest national park, established in 1887 after the chief of the Ngati Tuwharetoa people gave the park’s three peaks – Tongariro, Ngauruhoe and Ruapehu – to the country in order to preserve the area, which has paramount spiritual significance to the Maori people.

At 2797 metres high, Mount Ruapehu is the North Island’s tallest mountain/volcano, and this multi-peaked summit is so big that it presides over other mountains, deserts, lakes, alpine rivers, volcanoes and wilderness.

sightseeing activities and guided walks to Crater Lake. In the warmer months, the Tongariro National Park is popular with campers, hikers, walkers and eager tourists wanting a first-hand glimpse of these live mountainous monsters.

For the best of the region’s wildlife and plant life, head to forest parks such as Pureora or Kaimanawa, which offer spectacular hikes and walks and some of the country’s rarest flora and fauna.

For a completely different perspective of the region, take to the sky on a scenic flight – it is from this vantage point that you will be able to fully appreciate the magnitude of the resident mountains, waterways, lakes and forests. To mix this bird’s-eye experience with a little adrenalin, try a sky dive or bungy jump – Taupo has the world’s largest commercial tandem sky dive drop zone (hosting 35,000 jumps a year), as well as the country’s highest water-touch bungy drop at 47 metres over the Waikato River. Further upriver are the gushing Huka Falls – which have 220,000 litres of water pouring over them every second and are a must-see in themselves!

Relax after a hard day’s adventuring in one of the Central Plateau’s many volcanic thermal spots – a swim at the Taupo Hot Springs or Tokaanu’s thermal pools will certainly take the edge off the sorest of muscles.

The Craters of the Moon walk and the Orakei Korako Geyserland offer an up close and personal introduction to the region’s geothermal properties, with a series of walks past various mud pools, craters, geysers and hot springs.

To match its majestic mountainous surrounds, Taupo has some of the country’s most spectacular and opulent accommodation. The Bayview Chateau Tongariro, which exudes sophistication and old-world charm, is located in the Tongariro National Park. Situated along the Waikato River, the Huka Lodge is another one of the area’s most exclusive and luxurious places to stay. Its list of famous guests is longer than its extensive food and wine menus.

The only problem with these amazing accommodation options is that you may not have the time to really enjoy them, because who wants to be stuck indoors when you’ve got the volcanic wonderland of Taupo and Ruapehu on your doorstep? w

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The Lake Taupo and Ruapehu regions sit on a volcanic plain that was defined some 26,000 years ago.

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WELCOME TO Wellington Gemma King can certainly feel the energy and excitement that Wellington embodies. New Zealand’s capital is a melting pot of culture, diversity and admirable tradition.

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ew Zealand’s capital is a storm in a teacup.

Flanked by tall hills, bushland and a gorgeous harbour, Wellington may be geographically segregated from the rest of the country, but this very insularity lends this relatively small city its big vibe. From indigenous Maori infusions to contemporary flavours, take a sip from this brew and no doubt you’ll soon see your future in these tea leaves.

If you think of New Zealand’s North Island as ‘the rock’ and the South Island as ‘the hard place’, then Wellington is the in-between... but you’ll hardly feel stuck.

Wellington is the gateway between islands and serves as a stopover for the bulk of travellers who file through

in a constant two-way stream, giving the city a feeling of perpetual motion. The mountainous city walls keep the mixing pot bubbling and churning.

You’ll find an atmosphere of ‘something for everyone’, which has arisen out of the city’s thriving arts and culture scene. Revel in the throbbing cacophony of music festivals, honour your inner glutton with the plethora of eateries and leave your purse unzipped at the various markets and craft outlets, or immerse yourself in world-renowned film.

Wellington is also home to the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra and the Royal New Zealand Ballet.

Lyndsey O’Reilly, marketing manager of St James Theatre and The Opera House, describes Wellington as “energetic, cultural and funky” and if it sounds as if she’s describing New York, it wouldn’t be the first time the comparison has been made. True, Wellington is much smaller and quieter, but the café culture in Wellington

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Wellington is the gateway between islands and serves as a stopover for the bulk of travellers who file through in a constant two-way stream, giving the city a feeling of perpetual motion.

is so prominent that many local coffee houses relish in the areas growing coffee culture. Within the city, Mojo, Havana, Caffe L’affare and Emporio are local cafés that proudly roast all their own coffee beans.

Wellington is a foot-traveller’s delight; you can cover all two kilometres of downtown Wellington in a comfy pair of shoes with nothing but a bottle of water, and you’d never even need to hail a taxi. The city’s location is the perfect starting point to enjoy a cruisey bike ride down to the rocky coastline of the South Coast where you can watch the surf surge in. And, right in the centre of the city you will find a golden sand beach that stretches along Oriental Parade, as well as numerous surrounding bays.

The juxtaposition of geography and landmarks make Wellington an enchanting city to explore.

A great starting point is saying kia ora to the morning over brunch by the glistening harbour at Oriental Bay. Replete with cafés and loved for its relaxed, beachfront atmosphere, Wellington’s ‘Riviera’ has recently undergone a no-expense-spared multimillion-dollar facelift, and undeniably boasts Wellington’s most desirable real estate.

After brunch, a walk along the harbour front to the shopping precinct of Lambton Quay is the way to go.

Along with nearby Willis Street, Lambton Quay is fondly known as ‘The Golden Mile’ for its boutiques and various retail outlets. This is where you should head when your money is burning a hole in your pocket.

Right in the heart of Wellington’s CBD, Lambton Quay will lead you up to the nation’s Parliament buildings.

Why not take a guided tour through Parliament House or the Old Government Buildings – the largest wooden structures in the southern hemisphere? Here you’ll find the famous ‘Beehive’, which is the affectionate title of Parliament’s Executive Office building. Its name is derived from its round exterior, which rises in steps, reminiscent of a home for buzzing honey-makers.

Parliament tours are free and run daily.

If you don’t fancy walking, an excellent way to take in the city sights is on Wellington’s famous Cable Car, accessed from Lambton Quay. One of the capital’s most popular tourist attractions, the ride will take you from beneath the corporate towers of The Terrace, and then soaring to the heights of the Lookout, from where you can take in views of the entire CBD and harbour. Take a return trip if you wish, or opt for a pleasant stroll back to the city through the beautiful Botanic Garden and historic Bolton Street Memorial Park.

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James Theatre – one of Australasia’s finest lyric theatres?

Or a game at Westpac Stadium – a round structure with high metal façades, affectionately known as the ‘cake tin’?

The choice is yours.

Not matter where your choice of evening activities take you, why not end your sightseeing with a nightcap or a leisurely walk along Oriental Parade. The twinkling city lights illuminating the clear night sky lend a certain magic to this area and will perfectly top off your visit to Wellington.

By now you’ll probably want to head back to your hotel for a cup of tea and a little sit down. As Lyndsey O’Reilly points out, the variety on offer in Wellington means there is ‘something for everyone’. Your job is to decide exactly what your cup of tea is. w

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Next stop, Te Papa. New Zealand’s iconic national museum is the ideal way to sample the spectrum of New Zealand’s culture, with its five levels crammed full of Maori and Pacific tradition, history, artwork, wildlife and culture. Te Papa holds three ideals close to its heart: Papatuanuku – the earth on which we all live, Tangata whenua – those who belong to the land by right of first discovery and Tangata tiriti – those who belong to the land by right of the Treaty of Waitangi. This philosophy of respect for the country’s land and heritage permeates all of New Zealand, and Te Papa is the perfect showcase for this cultural axiom.

As well as being cultural and funky, Wellington is also sporty, so you may find yourself torn between two loves in the evening. Will it be dinner and then a show at the St

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Mountain biking on Mount Victoria. © Positively Wellington Tourism

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WELLINGTON MAP

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Map courtesy Hema Maps NZ

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SHOPPING in Wellington Woven between examples of traditional architecture, contemporary boutiques breathe life into the fashionable streets of Wellington. Julia Garvey browses through the clothes racks to discover some of New Zealand’s finest shopping destinations.

Shopping bag one: LAMBTON QUAY

This bustling and vibrant shopping precinct forms the heart of Wellington’s central business district, and is home to New Zealand’s finest range of fashion, knitwear, music and bookstores. Here you will find the prestigious Kirkcaldie & Stains department store, established in 1863, which offers three floors of luxury shopping and first class service.

Also worth a visit, the Harbour City Shopping Centre and Capital on the Quay present boutique-style retailers, ideal for practical or pleasurable shopping quests.

Address: Kirkcaldie & Stains, 165-177 Lambton Quay, Wellington Tel: +64 4 472 5899 www.kirkcaldies.co.nz

Shopping bag two: CUBA STREET

For glamorous gifts and homewares, stop by Abstract Designs on Cuba Street. On display is an assortment of clocks and jewellery embellished with illustrations inspired by New Zealand’s enchanting plant and animal life, including the native Pohutukawa flower and Kiwi bird. Each piece is designed and made locally from materials including stainless steel and resin.

Address: Abstract Designs, 125 Cuba Mall, Wellington Tel: +64 4 385 7511 www.abstractdesign.co.nz Wakefield Street

Visit Karen Walker’s Wellington store to discover why locals and international fashionistas alike adore this home-grown designer. With a distinct take on modern fashion, eyewear and jewellery, Walker creates cutting edge apparel that combines quirky themes with chic cuts and fabrics.

Address: 126 Wakefield Street, Wellington Tel: +64 4 499 3558 www.karenwalker.com

Shopping bag three: BLAIR STREET

Old Bank Arcade and Chambers

Customhouse Quay

Sophisticated shoppers will be swept away by Customhouse Quay, which boasts a gorgeous selection of opulent boutiques set among exquisite architecture.

The stunning range at Basquesse will see you walk away armed with a handful of shopping bags or, perhaps, even a whole new wardrobe! Designer and founding director Viviana Pannell draws on her European and Peruvian heritage to inspire her custom collection of handbags, jewellery, creative couture and casual fashion lines.

Address: Basquesse, 95 Customhouse Quay, Wellington Tel: +64 4 499 3012 www.basquesse.com

Taking personal style to a new level, Blair Street may cause an unsuspecting shopaholic’s heart to race. One store to get excited about in particular is Soup, a cutting edge boutique bursting at the seams with high-end recycled fashion.

Impeccable garments from Armani, Burberry and Prada are elegantly draped throughout the stylish store. Search for a forgotten treasure or a bold new piece to add an eclectic edge to your look. Once you have shopped your heart out, head to the Reading Cinemas Gold Lounge in Courtenay Place and rest your weary feet by relaxing on a comfy lounge and enjoy a new release film.

Address: Soup, 8 Blair Street, Wellington Tel: +64 4 385 4722 www.soup.net.nz Scotties Boutique

Your first stop for glamour, Scotties Boutique houses the finest perfume and accessories by internationally renowned fashion houses like Comme Des Garçons and Lanvin. Soft lighting and subtle shades of colour mixed with lavish textures create a warm and comfortable setting to peruse Scotties’ exquisite collection.

Address: 4 Blair Street, Wellington Tel: +64 4 384 3805 www.scottiesboutique.co.nz

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The restored Old Bank Arcade and Chambers is a prominent Wellington landmark featuring local designers like Minnie Cooper, whose elegant accessories are designed and made in New Zealand. For those with a sweet tooth, however, de Spa Chocolatier is the destination to indulge.

Address: Old Bank Arcade and Chambers, corner Lambton Quay and Willis Streets, Wellington Tel: +64 4 922 0600 www.oldbank.co.nz

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© Scotties Boutique

Marilyn Sainty

PETONE

The perfect balance of freshly brewed coffee and unique shopping attracts visitors and locals alike to the picturesque northern beaches of Petone. Jackson Street features a range of unique boutiques and an intriguing mix of art galleries, bookstores, award-winning restaurants and funky cafés, only a short drive from the Wellington city centre. w

100 Courtenay Place, Wellington Tel: +64 4 801 4600 Fax: +64 4 801 4605 Email: courtenaycentral@readingcinemas.co.nz Web: www.readingcinemas.co.nz Reading Cinemas Courtenay features ten state of the art cinemas, wall to wall screens, explosive digital sound, stadium seating and all the latest release movies. We are the first cinema in Wellington to offer Dolby Digital 3D. For a little luxury, the Reading Gold Lounge features luxury recliners, with a delicious selection of food and 31772_3

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beverages delivered direct to your seat. Our newest brand, Angelika, is dedicated to lovers of fine film, showcasing the best art house features.

Opening hours: Open every day (excluding Christmas Day) 10am to 10pm

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Shopping bag four:

READING CINEMAS COURTENAY

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OWNER, SCOTTIES BOUTIQUE Tell us a bit about Wellington’s Scotties Boutique.

The Wellington store opened in 1998 and is now the sole stockist of brands like Lanvin, Dries Van Noten, Ann Demeulemeester, Marni, Comme des Garçons, Acne and Australian designer Martin Grant, as well as local labels like Beth Ellery, Camille Howie and Julia Fong.

What fresh looks will we be wearing in 2010?

Exciting arrivals for the next season will include beautifully crisp white shirts and French striped t-shirts by Celine, grey and cream spotted canvas Mary Janes by Comme des Garçons, some delicious pink grosgrain sandals from Lanvin and some lovely loose and very wearable dresses from Marni.

Who are some of your favourite New Zealand fashion designers?

At Scotties we love Beth Ellery, Camille Howie and Julia Fong’s work; each of them has a very disciplined approach and a real understanding of quality. Beth is a trained architect and her work reflects that.

Julia’s degree is in fine arts and often has a sculptural quality. Camille is trained in fashion design and has a great sensibility.

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JACKSON STREET PETONE ‘Step into a story, not just a store’ Web: www.jacksonstreetpetone.co.nz

For the more active and adventurous, there are a huge range of outdoor activities just minutes from Jackson Street, find out more at www.huttvalleynz.com

Just 15 minutes from Wellington and you are in the village atmosphere of Jackson Street, Petone.

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Enjoy some retail therapy in Wellington’s first settlement, Petone. From designer fashion to fair trade, fine cuisine to casual coffee.

While you are here, you should visit Te Puna Wai Ora – The Spring of Life, the only artesian water you will find in Wellington.

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DINING in Wellington Wellington’s fine dining scene is populated by a fusion of tastes, cultures, epicurean concepts and a sense of pride in utilising fresh local ingredients.

Jacklyn Lloyd uncovers one of New Zealand’s greatest foodie destinations: Wellington.

BOULCOTT STREET BISTRO 99 Boulcott Street, Wellington Tel: +64 4 499 4199

Situated within an elegant Victorian house built in 1876, Boulcott’s exudes a certain warmth and charm. The menu here is not fussy; rather, dishes are classic and wholesome. The dinner menu offers favourite dishes like fillet Béarnaise and braised lamb shanks. While the menu may seem traditional, the flavours and fresh ingredients are truly timeless and always welcome.

HEAD CHEF AND CO-OWNER, THE WHITE HOUSE RESTAURANT Most of your menu is focused on local ingredients, how do you best utilise these natural flavours?

We like to keep flavours simple; we do not over-engineer dishes and we also focus heavily on free range, organic and sustainable seafood.

What is your favourite local ingredient to utilise in your restaurant, and how do you like to best showcase it?

It would be hard to name just one as we plan our menus seasonally. Presently we are using spring vegetables and whitebait. As summer approaches, we will focus more on fresh berries, stone fruits and lighten our style of cooking. An example of our cuisine is our sautéed whitebait dish that is simply served with fresh asparagus. For us that represents the coming of spring.

What makes Wellington a satisfying foodie destination?

Wellington has one of the highest restaurant concentrations per capita. This makes the competition fierce and healthy.

What is your favourite non-cheffy food?

My mum’s cooking.

Head chef Ron Grützner takes great pride in sourcing local New Zealand ingredients where possible, which is evident in Chameleon’s dinner menu where you will find scallops from Nelson, pork from Canterbury and locally sourced Maori potatoes. This regional produce is harmoniously utilised in robust dishes like beef tenderloin served with sautéed kowiniwini – gorgeous purple coloured Maori potatoes – all topped off with luscious shavings of black truffle.

FLORIDITAS 161 Cuba Street, Wellington Tel: +64 4 381 2212

If you seek a relaxed dining atmosphere that does not compromise the elegance and finesse of its cuisine, then Floriditas on Cuba Street is a perfect venue. Old world charm is fused with a Parisian café feel, while the menu speaks volumes with a combination of seasonal ingredients sourced both locally and from surrounding regions in New Zealand.

FRATELLI 15 Blair Street, Wellington Tel: +64 4 801 6615

Fratelli is located in the heart of Wellington City’s entertainment district. Serving fresh modern Italian cuisine, Fratelli specialises in 100% homemade pasta, © The White House Restaurant

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Paul Hoather

CHAMELEON RESTAURANT Ground Floor, InterContinental Hotel 2 Grey Street, Wellington Tel: +64 4 495 7841

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gnocchi, risotto and wood-fired pizzas. Taking from traditional Italian cooking styles and assembling them with modern ideas, the menu at Fratelli changes seasonally to ensure that only the freshest ingredients are used. This is perfectly matched with an extensive Italian wine list to deliver a truly Italian dining experience.

LE CANARD 10A Murphy Street, Thorndon, Wellington Tel: +64 4 499 5252

Le Canard introduces you to the cuisine of Perigord, France’s greatest gastronomic region. Perigord is also home to the lucrative black truffle, and Le Canard alludes to the exquisiteness of this region through the fusing together of traditional French concepts with New Zealand’s best local produce. Enjoy an entrée of duck and fig pâté washed down with a glass of exclusively imported French champagne.

LOGAN BROWN 192 Cuba Street, Wellington Tel: +64 4 801 5114

MARTIN BOSLEY’S YACHT CLUB RESTAURANT Royal Port Nicholson Yacht Club 103 Oriental Parade, Wellington Tel: +64 4 920 8302

Martin Bosley’s award-winning restaurant strikes the perfect balance between elegance and simplicity. While Bosley’s basic philosophy is to eat what is in season, he also takes great pride in creating innovative dishes that please the eye as well as the palate. Expect to feast on baked potato consommé and squid ink caviar, sprinkled with prosciutto powder – and that’s just the entrée.

MONSOON POON 12 Blair Street, Wellington Tel: +64 4 803 3555

THE GENERAL PRACTITIONER 100 Willis Street, Wellington Tel: +64 4 499 6001

The General Practitioner is a popular ‘gastropub’ with a unique history. The historic building was originally constructed for Dr. Henry Pollen in 1902, when he conducted his consultations and surgery on the ground floor. Today this beautiful building welcomes a different clientele: those who enjoy superb and hearty fare. Classic dishes like char-grilled beef fillet and beer battered fish and chips are always guaranteed to hit the spot, as are the GP’s Monteiths family of boutique brews.

THE WHITE HOUSE RESTAURANT 232 Oriental Parade, Oriental Bay, Wellington Tel: +64 4 385 8555

Delight in some of New Zealand’s finest seasonal produce, thoughtfully captured by head chef and co-owner, Paul Hoather, who utilises a clever and restrained approach to highlight natural flavours. Feast on the local West Coast’s whitebait, or try the Waikanae crab ravioli – either way, you can be sure that you are sampling some of New Zealand’s freshest and most flavoursome ingredients. w

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The oriental and vibrant décor at Monsoon Poon is perfectly suited to the exotic flavours of India, south China, Vietnam, Malaysia, the Philippines and Indonesia, which are all represented on one menu. Start your meal off with some spicy chilli and lemongrass cashew nuts, and then work your way through the extensive main menu – it may take a while.

© Chameleon Restaurant

NEW ZEALAND NORTH ISLAND

Logan Brown is New Zealand’s 2009 Cuisine ‘Restaurant of the Year’. Restaurant owners Steve Logan and Alister Brown believe that restaurants don’t have to be formal to serve fine food. At Logan Brown the focus is on the knowledge of ingredients, beautifully prepared in resulting dishes like West Coast whitebait served with asparagus and tarragon gnocchi. Sit back and soak up the unpretentious ambiance at Logan Brown, while feeling captivated by the restaurant’s stunning décor – formerly a 1920s banking chamber.

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THE TASTING ROOM

THE GENERAL PRACTITIONER

2 Courtenay Place Te Aro Wellington Tel: +64 4 384 1159 Web: www.thetastingroom.co.nz

Corner of Willis and Boulcott Streets Wellington Tel: +64 4 499 6001 Web: www.thegp.co.nz

The Tasting Room is a modern interpretation of the traditional public house, offering the best in food and drink.

Highly acclaimed, in 2009 Lonely Planet voted our beef Wellington, matched with a pint of black beer, as one the ‘Top 10 Eating Experiences’ in New Zealand.

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The Tasting Room is the ideal spot for lunch and dinner. Our menu offers the best in New Zealand game food, with a European twist.

Situated on busy Courtenay Place, come in anytime and enjoy a beer in the sun and some tantalising food.

Acclaimed Wellington gastropub, The General Practitioner, offers the best in New Zealand Craft beer and Wild food. Set in a grand historic house, the “GP” takes its name from its history; the building was originally constructed for Dr. Henry Pollen in 1902.

The GP is an ideal spot for brunch, lunch, dinner, private functions,

and casual drinks or a bite from our renowned menu.

Join us soon at the General Practitioner for a prescription of fine ales and healthy socialising.

Opening hours: 11am – late 7 days

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Fratelli translates as brothers, a fitting name for one of Wellington’s top Italian restaurants that is owned by brothers Ferdi and Carlo Petagna.

This is perfectly matched with an extensive Italian wine list to complete the true Italian dining experience.

Opened in March 2009, the brothers set out to give Wellington something that they thought was missing from its dining scene: a good quality Italian restaurant serving fresh Italian cuisine to all markets.

Opening hours: Lunch: Friday from 11.30 Dinner: Monday-Saturday from 5.30

The restaurant is located on Blair Street in the heart of Wellington’s entertainment district on Courtenay Place. At Fratelli the concept is simple: fresh modern Italian food. It takes parts of traditional Italian cooking styles and assembles them in new and interesting ways.

The ingredients are fresh and seasonal and so is the menu.

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15 Blair Street Wellington Tel: +64 4 801 6615 Fax: +64 4 801 6635 Email: info@fratelli.net.nz Web: www.fratelli.net.nz

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While Rio de Janeiro and New York may compete for the title of best bar, Siobhan Argent finds that Wellington also has an impressive, stylish and eclectic mix of bars scattered throughout its own vibrant city.

BETTYS BAR 32 Blair Street, Wellington Tel: +64 4 803 3766

MATTERHORN 106 Cuba Street, Wellington Tel: +64 4 384 3359

THE LAST SUPPER CLUB 21 Blair Street, Wellington Tel: +64 4 801 5212

There is a lot of hype surrounding the newly opened Bettys Bar on Blair Street.

This unique bar boasts an integrated digital art-space and is set to be one of Wellington’s most exclusive entertainment venues. Enjoy a cocktail while immersing yourself in a fusion of technology, innovation and cutting edge sophistication.

Originally a German-inspired coffee house, wooden floors and a spacious main room accentuate an inviting courtyard and a tempting range of beers and cocktails. This bar has won several prestigious awards in the past, including best bar in Wellington, so don’t miss out on your opportunity to experience Matterhorn.

The Last Supper Club is a supertrendy nightspot with an upmarket crowd. This venue is definitely sleek, with its plush chocolatecoloured leather booths and an extensive wine list – this is the ideal spot for a crowd that enjoys staying out after the sun goes down.

HAWTHORN LOUNGE 82 Tory Street, Wellington Tel: +64 4 890 3724

Well-known for its classic cocktails and 1920s private club atmosphere, the Hawthorn boasts leather lounges and a fireplace, creating a cosy atmosphere in which to absorb the sumptuous flavours of the extensive drinks menu.

Red Square is a decadently sexy and sleek bar situated in the heart of Wellington’s nightlife scene. A welcoming variety of wine, cocktails and an impressive selection of martinis and vodkas make this a fabulous place for a night out on a grand scale.

© Hawthorn Lounge

ALICE Forresters Lane, Wellington Tel: +64 4 385 2242

TASTING ROOM 2 Courtenay Place, Wellington Tel: +64 4 384 1159

Paying homage to the whimsical fantasy of Alice in Wonderland,, this bar features pictures of Alice on the Wonderland wall, complete with various ‘looking glasses’ and the movie itself playing on a black-and-white screen. Make sure you try the Mad Hatter’s Tea Party cocktail that comes served in its very own teapot.

The Tasting Room is representative of a classic public house – with a modern twist.

Monteith’s famous family of boutique brews and regular seasonal brews are all perfectly matched to a menu that includes delectable tasting plates that are ideal for sharing.

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RED SQUARE 28 Blair Street, Wellington Tel: +64 4 802 4244

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ONE80° COCKTAIL LOUNGE Copthorne Hotel, 100 Oriental Parade Oriental Bay, Wellington Tel: +64 4 385 0279

This stylishly-outfitted contemporary bar is situated on the seventh floor of the Copthorne Hotel and offers spectacular views of Oriental Bay. Enjoy a cocktail or two while soaking up Wellington’s inner-city nightlife.

CONCRETE BAR AND RESTAURANT Cable Car Lane, Lambton Quay Wellington Tel: +64 4 473 7427

Concrete Lounge is located in the heart of Wellington’s central business district and boasts an extensive list of cocktails as well as an impressive range of foreign and local beers. Concrete Bar’s minimalist décor is the perfect setting for focusing all of your attention on the breathtaking water views.

© Matterhorn

© Sandwiches

With a wide and varied range of spirits, wine, cocktails and beer, everyone will find something to suit their tastes at Hummingbird. Having won the National Suntory Cocktail Competition numerous times, Hummingbird offers superior service and a welcoming ambience.

SANDWICHES 8 Kent Terrace, Wellington Tel: +64 4 385 7698

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Regularly hosting local and international DJs, as well as jazz and soul acts, Sandwiches is a terrific cocktail bar that prides itself on its relaxed and inviting atmosphere. w

NEW ZEALAND NORTH ISLAND

HUMMINGBIRD 22 Courtenay Place, Wellington Tel: +64 4 801 6336

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EVENTS CALENDAR ARROWTOWN AUTUMN FESTIVAL body

© Arrowtown Autumn Festival

Date: 16 to 25 April 2010 Once a thriving gold mining centre, Arrowtown reflects the character of this region’s rich heritage. Held over 10 days, the 26th Autumn Festival incorporates cancan dancers, vintage cars and live musical performances in a spectacular procession along the leafy streets of the town centre.

Location: Arrowtown, 20 kilometres from Queenstown Tel: +64 3 442 1824 www.arrowtownautumnfestival.org.nz © New Zealand International Film Festival

NEW ZEALAND INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL

NEW ZEALAND CUP AND SHOW WEEK

Date: 29 July to 15 August 2010

A colourful social occasion, the New Zealand Cup and Show Week plays host to a glamorous mix of world-class racing, fabulous fashion, entertainment and dining. This is the perfect event to take a punt, scout the latest trends at fashion on the fields or enjoy the racing events trackside.

Location: Addington Raceway and Riccarton Park Racecourse, Christchurch Tel: +64 3 336 0000 www.nzcupandshow.co.nz

Support New Zealand’s film industry by enjoying a classic or contemporary feature film. This distinguished event attracts more than 16,000 visitors to Christchurch, where the graceful Regent Theatre is a fitting venue to be carried away by the magic of the silver screen.

Location: Regent Theatre, Christchurch Tel: +64 4 366 0140 www.nzff.co.nz

Date: 6 to 13 November 2010

© Ellerslie International Flower Show

MICHAEL HILL NEW ZEALAND OPEN

Date: 28 to 31 January 2011 Four! New Zealand’s premier golfing event tees off at The Hills Golf Course in Arrowtown. Set over 101 hectares, the private championship course features an architecturally award-winning clubhouse, with a deck that offers panoramic views of the immaculate greens.

Location: The Hills Golf Course, Arrowtown Tel: +64 3 353 6169 www.nzopen.org.nz

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AUCKLAND JULY 9 – 26, WELLINGTON JULY 17 – AUGUST 2, DUNEDIN JULY 24 – AUGUST 9, CHRISTCHURCH JULY 30 – AUGUST 16, PALMERSTON NORTH AUGUST 6 – 19, NEW PLYMOUTH AUGUST 13 – 26, NAPIER AUGUST 19 – SEPTEMBER 6, TAURANGA AUGUST 27 – SEPTEMBER 9, HAMILTON SEPTEMBER 3 - 16, NELSON SEPTEMBER 10 – 23, GREYMOUTH OCTOBER 5 – 11, MASTERTON OCTOBER 14 – 28, LEVIN OCTOBER 29 – NOVEMBER 11, GISBORNE NOVEMBER 5 – 18, WHANGAREI NOVEMBER 12 – 25

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SOUTH ISLAND © Christchurch Gondola

THE INTERNATIONAL ANTARCTIC CENTRE

© Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools & Spa/Hurunui Tourism

MOUNT COOK GLACIER EXPLORERS

WAIPARA VALLEY

Experience Antarctica at its best. This award-winning attraction in Christchurch is a must-see and promises to entertain, inform and educate visitors of all ages.

Allow two to three hours to enjoy fun and exciting activities such as outdoor adventures, galleries and penguin viewing.

Address: 38 Orchard Road, Christchurch Tel: +64 3 353 7798 www.iceberg.co.nz

Get up close and personal with New Zealand’s largest glacier, the Tasman Glacier, located at Aoraki Mount Cook National Park, which is permanently covered in snow and glacial ice. Here you will have the opportunity to experience unseen and inaccessible areas of the Tasman Glacier and even touch the 500-year-old glacial ice.

Address: Aoraki Mount Cook National Park Tel: +64 3 435 1641 www.glacierexplorers.com

It’s only a 40-minute drive north from Christchurch, so why not visit one of New Zealand’s fastest-growing grape regions?

Waipara Valley is known for its pinots, riesling, chardonnay and sauvignon wines, derived from award-winning wineries such as Pegasus Bay, Mount Cass and Montana Wines. Embark on a vineyard tour and sample some of New Zealand’s finest wines – perhaps you may like to purchase a bottle or two to take home with you. www.waiparawine.co.nz

UP UP AND AWAY

ABEL TASMAN NATIONAL PARK

The team at Up Up and Away will ensure that you enjoy a hot-air ballooning experience that will take your breath away. Combine the amazing views of the city with incredible scenes of snow-capped mountains, and you will truly appreciate the magnificent and picturesque landscape of Christchurch and Canterbury.

Address: Unit 6, 31 Stevens Street, Christchurch Tel: +64 3 381 4600 www.ballooning.co.nz

Abel Tasman National Park is New Zealand’s only coastal national park.

Appreciate the unique features of the area, such as the popular Abel Tasman guided walk, or try sea kayaking along the protected coastline. Alternatively, you could board the Abel Tasman Voyager and experience a scenic journey in style, where you’ll discover beaches with the largest tidal range in the country.

Address: 265 High Street, Nelson Tel: +64 3 528 2027 www.abeltasman.co.nz

HANMER SPRINGS THERMAL POOLS

CHRISTCHURCH GONDOLA

The Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools are a 90-minute drive from Christchurch, and for more than 100 years this natural wonder has enabled visitors to soak up the benefits of the refreshing mineral waters and unwind in the beautiful surrounding alpine setting. Be assured that you will leave feeling relaxed and rejuvenated.

Address: 42 Amuri Avenue, Hanmer Springs Tel: +64 3 315 7511 www.hanmersprings.co.nz

Enjoy a picturesque ride aboard the Christchurch Gondola, 500 metres above sea level, and take in the stunning 360degree views of the city, the Southern Alps, Lyttelton Harbour and the Canterbury Plains. The Christchurch Gondola is undoubtedly one of Christchurch’s main attractions and visitors of all ages will enjoy this charming experience.

Address: 10 Bridle Path Road, Heathcote Valley Tel: +64 3 384 0700 www.gondola.co.nz

SWIMMING WITH DOLPHINS

The opportunity of a lifetime to swim with the world’s smallest and rarest dolphins, the Hector’s dolphins, can be found at Akaroa Harbour, the flooded crater of an extinct volcano. Cruises are available with highly trained crew to ensure that you get the most out of this once in a lifetime opportunity.

Address: Main Wharf, Akaroa Tel: +64 3 304 7641 www.swimmingwithdolphins.co.nz

Located in the untamed landscape of the beautiful Southern Alps, Rangitata Rafts gives you the chance to experience the ultimate whitewater rafting adventure. The breathtaking scenery will undoubtedly make this a memorable experience, and if you’re not so familiar with your adventurous side, there are also rafting trips available to suit individual needs.

Address: Peel Forest, South Canterbury Tel: +64 3 696 3534 www.rafts.co.nz

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WHITEWATER RAFTING

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Must Do’s

HELI-SKIING

OTAGO MUSEUM

Discover the remarkable scenery of the Southern Alps combined with the ultimate thrill of heli-skiing to truly experience the exhilaration and excitement of skiing in isolated areas. Take in the beauty of Queenstown by air before landing in the soft fresh powder of untouched snow.

Address: Tex Smith Lane, Frankton, Queenstown Tel: 0800 FLY ALPINE (359 257) www.alpinechoppers.co.nz

The Otago Museum is one of Dunedin’s most visited attractions that will inspire all of your interests. Discover the culture, nature and science of the South Island through a selection of intriguing exhibitions and current collections. The Otago Museum has something for the whole family.

Address: 419 Great King Street, Dunedin Tel: +64 3 474 7474 www.otagomuseum.govt.nz

TROUT FISHING

The South Island has been described as a fly-fishing paradise due to its fantastic selection of fishing spots set within the beautiful surroundings of stunning valleys and crystal clear rivers. Take a guided flyfishing tour where you can sight, stalk and fish large brown and rainbow trout. w Address: Glenorchy, 40 kilometres from Queenstown Tel: +64 3 441 2293 www.trout-stalkers.co.nz

THE LORD OF THE RINGS TOUR CADBURY WORLD

One of the most delicious attractions, located in the centre of Dunedin, is the Cadbury World chocolate factory. An educational tour provides visitors with the opportunity to taste, smell and learn about the history of chocolate. The tour will take roughly 45 minutes and provide a day’s worth of a sugar high.

Address: 280 Cumberland Street, Dunedin Tel: +64 3 467 7967 www.cadburyworld.co.nz

Take a captivating journey by four-wheel drive through the ‘Misty Mountains’ from Edoras to Helm’s Deep, and relive The Lord of the Rings experience to learn about the fascinating details of these breathtaking locations that we all enjoyed on the big screen. There are plenty of opportunities to capture these amazing panoramas, so don’t forget to bring your camera.

Address: Geraldine, Central South Island Tel: +64 3 693 7254 www.4x4newzealand.co.nz

Balloon Adventures Up Up And Away Ltd Ph: +64 3 381 4600 Email: info@ballooning.co.nz

WWW.BALLOONING.CO.NZ

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WELCOME TO Nelson and Marlborough Nelson and Marlborough are quaint regions on the South Island. Nicole Haddow is pleased to learn, however, that these relaxed regions certainly make an impact and leave you feeling utterly rejuvenated.

Abel Tasman National Park. © Nelson Tasman Tourism

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or a long time, Nelson and Marlborough could quite easily have been left off a travel itinerary in favour of some of the larger cities on the South Island. But thanks to some seriously tasty grapes – which produce some of the world’s best sauvignon blanc – the Nelson and Marlborough regions have well and truly earned their places on the list of must-see spots.

If you’re approaching Marlborough by car from Christchurch, it’s well worth taking the scenic coastal drive through Kaikoura. You’ll think the region is having an identity crisis, because from one window you’ll see fluorescent white snow-capped mountains, while out of the other you’ll see inviting royal blue waters.

Marlborough was quite literally poured on to the world map when its soil was discovered to be ideal for growing grapes. So much so that sauvignon blanc is now a variety almost exclusively associated with the Marlborough region.

Giesen Wines is one of the most successful sauvignon blanc producers in the world. Its general manager, Jim Veitch, says, “The Marlborough sauvignon blanc is certainly setting new trends internationally. And more recently, especially in Australia, the sauvignon blanc category continues to grow far and above any other wine category.” As with any good grape growing region, the secret is in the sunny climate and balance of sweeping cool ocean breezes that allow the grapes to rest and grow at night. With conditions that the grapes love, it’s no wonder that people are coming to see this region in droves.

It is this faultless climate that inspires countless visitors to take in the magnificent views, while tantalising their tastebuds as sauv blanc trickles across their tongue. If you’re not too hazy from all the good drops of vino in this region, there are plenty of other activities to undertake.

There are abundant water vessel options in which you can explore the tranquil Marlborough Sounds. Water taxis are an efficient way to travel or get a dolphin’s eye view of the landscape, or you can meander at your own pace on a sea kayak through the maze of inlets, beaches and verdant reserves. Alternatively, why not spend your afternoon enjoying the calm waters from a luxury yacht?

For those with a desire to see the terrain while ‘tramping’ – which is what Kiwis call trekking or hiking – the best route is the Queen Charlotte Track, and the best way to enjoy this spot is to pack a backpack and set out for a long trek.

The South Island’s Nelson region is west of Marlborough. Nelson itself is noticeably arty and relaxed; the bookshops and cafés are perfect places to spend a lazy afternoon. This quaint town relishes and centres itself on the leisurely lifestyle of the locals and visitors. Wandering down the elegant streets will allow you to stumble across the best sights quite naturally. If you have an interest in art deco architecture then you simply must make time to see the ChristChurch Cathedral. It has great significance simply because construction commenced in 1925 and wasn’t completed until 1965, which caused a number of cultural and design factors to influence the final structure.

The Nelson Provincial Museum is another excellent way to gain some insight into the history of the town. The space itself is also modern and beautiful.

One of the natural highlights of the Nelson region is the Abel Tasman National Park. Certainly, it’s New Zealand’s smallest national park, but it’s big on features. Abel Tasman National Park offers some stunning coastline, lucid waters, cascading cliffs and engaging wildlife.

There are plenty of physical challenges to undertake in Nelson too. Try kite boarding on a windy day or climb some of the limestone cliffs at Paynes Ford. Mountain biking is another excellent way to experience the undulating hills of the Nelson region; plus there are also guided ride packages available, which is a good way to ensure that you see the region comprehensively. For an adventurous bird’s-eye view, try seeing Nelson from a hang glider or, if you prefer to take a slower pace, indulge yourself with a cruise along the stunning coastline of the Abel Tasman National Park.

Regardless of your favourite way to explore these regions; fly, ride, walk or just sit back and take it all in.

Whichever way, you will be absolutely enamoured with the Nelson and Marlborough regions. w

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Punakaiki. © Tourism West Coast

Hokitika Gorge. © Tourism West Coast

WELCOME TO the West Coast

Nyssa Veraphunt reveals the untouched beauty and captivating allure of the West Coast. by something as valued and revered – and that is the West Coast’s inherent beauty and character.

The beauty of the West Coast is instantly recognisable in a photo or picture, but it is its character that comes to life through the region’s people and their sense of adventure. And this needs to be experienced first-hand to be really appreciated. The 31,000 ‘Coasters’ who live in the region have their own unique spirit that adds to the West Coast experience. Locals have developed a friendly and accommodating nature (through years of isolation from the rest of the country) and a strong pioneering background.

The character of the West Coast is typified in its annual Wildfoods Festival. Each March, folk from all around the region descend on Hokitika, which quadruples its population to 16,000 for a weekend of festivities. This festival is a showcase of the region’s local produce and, just like the West Coast itself, it is a rustic and outgoing venture with some of the past food stall favourites being wasp larvae ice-cream, cucumber fish, sheep milk cheeses, wok-fried clams and huhu grubs – all washed down with a little of the local brew of course!

The Coasters have also been innovative in experiencing the West Coast from all of its angles. They have, for example, put a new spin on water travel from arranging pleasant glides over the green waters of the Haast River in fully enclosed jet boats to taking a helicopter flight over some of New Zealand’s most remote and demanding rivers.

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aking a trip to New Zealand’s West Coast is like taking a trip back in time: it is a rugged, untouched land of splendour and solemn beauty that in most parts looks just as it did thousands of years ago. The West Coast is a place where time and mist roll slowly over undulating mountains, past glaciers, through forests and jagged woodlands, above rainforests, rock formations, lakes, raging rivers and out over a rocky coastline.

The ‘wild’ West, as it is affectionately known because of its untamed terrain, runs 600 kilometres along the western edge of New Zealand’s South Island. While only 70 kilometres at its widest part, the West Coast has a distinct and diverse landscape defined by its Southern Alps, which split the South Island and cradle the West Coast’s unique landscape along the Tasman Sea. Maori explorers first discovered the West Coast while searching for sacred Pounamu, also known as greenstone or nephrite jade. The West Coast is the only place in New Zealand where the prized gem can be found – within boulders found in the local rivers.

Gold was also discovered in 1864 near the Taramakau River, making Europeans the next big influx of fortuneseekers. Coal mining and logging were also subsequent attractions to the area.

Today, while the search for tangible treasures has subsided, just as many visitors are still enticed to the area

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Lake Mahinapua. © Tourism West Coast

hissing and whaling of the spouts provides an energetic soundtrack to the rock formations and outstanding ocean views.

In 1990, the southern end of the West Coast, Te Wahipounamu, was deservedly marked as a UNESCO World Heritage Site because of its uniqueness and exceptional beauty.

The Heritage site also encapsulates the Aoraki Mount Cook National Park and Mount Cook, New Zealand’s highest peak, which at 3754 metres is so high it is snowcapped all year round. The Heritage site is also home to the Fox and Franz Josef glaciers, which nestle like frozen white streams in the mountains and are worth visiting on foot or overhead on a charter plane or a helicopter.

No matter where you are on the West Coast, you should take a remarkable coastal drive and twist and turn past these awe-inspiring sites. On the way back from a hard day’s sightseeing, make sure you find some time to savour the moment and watch the sunset over the Tasman Sea. Few people are as lucky as the Coasters, who get to witness these remarkable sunsets on daily basis, to say nothing of having the rest of the West Coast in their backyard. w

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For the nature enthusiasts, there are the specially constructed viewing platforms at Cape Foulwind, where you can watch fur seals in their natural habitat or join a tour and experience Hector’s dolphins and Fiordland crested penguins all enjoying their blissful natural environment.

But perhaps the West Coast’s biggest drawcard is its unique landscape – to the point where ecotourism has become the basis of the region’s economy. There are countless picnic spots and hiking trails from which to enjoy the region’s beauty first-hand, and then there are the remarkable, one-of-a-kind spots that you will not find anywhere else on earth.

One of these spots is the Punakaiki Pancake Rocks and Blowholes. The Pancake Rocks are a formation of layered limestone and sandstone compressed over thousands of years on what was once the bottom of the ocean floor. After earthquake activity lifted the formations to the sky, thousands more years of weathering crafted them into what today resembles stacks of pancakes.

The Punakaiki Blowholes shoot powerfully into the atmosphere beside the Pancake Rocks and are caused by ocean surges thrusting up into the Rocks’ airshafts. The

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No matter where you are on the West Coast, you should take a remarkable coastal drive and twist and turn past the awe-inspiring sites.

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WELCOME TO Canterbury and Christchurch Avon river. © Neil Bates

Karla Courtney navigates her way around the Canterbury and Christchurch regions with an inspiring guided tour.

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y stomach flutters as we take off. First the grey of the runway, then the green of the surrounding countryside and then, right in front of us, a giant white-capped mountain tumbling into an impossibly turquoise river...

The Christchurch/Canterbury region is as colourful and diverse as a David Attenborough DVD set. Rumour has it that a filmmaking company recently came here to find terrain resembling the English countryside, the Sicilian coast and North Africa. After an hour’s flight, they had seen everything they needed.

As the main entry point for international visitors to New Zealand’s South Island, Christchurch reflects this theme of diversity, combining ‘big city’ amenities and attractions with ‘small town’ charm.

The cultural precinct in the city centre is where 19th century landmarks like the gothic ChristChurch Cathedral and Canterbury Museum meet modernist monuments like the Christchurch Art Gallery Te Puna o Waiwhetu – a bit of a Cambridge-Newcastle hybrid. And if the streets don’t deliver enough of old England for you, perhaps a leisurely punt will do the trick. The River Avon runs through the city and out into the Pacific Ocean. Of the many potential namesakes – the most obvious being the one that runs through Stratford-upon-Avon – this Avon was named after one in Falkirk, Scotland.

It’s not all buildings and boats, though. Sip a latte and grab a takeaway sandwich filled with local produce as you shop along Poplar Lane and High Street by day, or dine and have a drink in the buzzing South of Lichfield precinct by night. If your stay falls on the weekend you can also visit the art and craft market at the Christchurch Arts Centre. Expect live entertainment, great locallymade souvenirs and plenty of delectable fresh produce.

Something uniquely Christchurch is the greenery.

Heritage roses, water lilies, orchids, ferns, herbs and a majestic springtime two-hectare patch of budding daffodils nestle among towering 100-plus-year-old trees in the 21-hectare Botanic Gardens. If you haven’t had enough horticulture, right next door is the 165-hectare Hagley Park. To see it at its best, visit during March, when the city plays host to the Ellerslie International Flower Show, which is attended by thousands of green-thumbed garden enthusiasts.

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For a quick and easy way to take in all the sights, many visitors (and enthusiastic locals) enjoy a ride on the Heritage Tramway or the Christchurch Tramway Restaurant. Otherwise, for a bird’s-eye perspective, the Christchurch Gondola will take you up 500 metres to the rim of Christchurch’s extinct volcano.

Leaving the city presents a dilemma: which way? The first main attraction to the north is the Waipara Valley wine region. Protected from cooler easterly winds by the Teviotdale hills, the wines here differ from those in the rest of the South Island. While neighbouring Marlborough, for example, is best known for its light and crisp sauvignon blanc and pinot gris, Waipara tends to produce more full-bodied varieties – rich and spicy pinot noir, dry riesling and chardonnay and fragrant gewürztraminer. Just a bit further northeast

ChristChurch Cathedral. © Marek Slusarczyk

West of Christchurch, heading towards the South Island’s opposite coast, is the magnificent chain of mountains known as the Southern Alps. Mount Cook, the highest point, can be easily viewed either from afar or very close up on a plane or heli-safari. During winter (June through to October) Methven comes alive as the region’s ski hub, as most runs are a comfortable distance from here.

After my Canterbury tour is done and I begin to collect my thoughts, the first thing I really want to do is go back to my room and flick through my photos. “Not yet,” our tour guide informs me. “We are going for a jet boat ride on the Rakaia River.” That’s a whole other story... w

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lies the Hanmer Springs thermal resort, where you can soak in natural mineral pools, indulge in a range of spa treatments or just sit back and enjoy the view of rolling hills. For a scenic drive, head back to the rugged northeast coast and go further north up to the Kaikoura Peninsula. Best known for its whale watching, Kaikoura is a lovely little seaside town with great shops, eateries and a laid-back ‘beachy’ vibe. Even if you don’t have time for an overnight stay, the drive alone is completely worth it.

Driving south of Christchurch, after passing through an extinct volcano crater rim, a popular stop is the Banks Peninsula and the French heritage town of Akaroa.

Travelling further south down the State Highway 75 will take you inland through towns like Ashburton and Temuka until you hit the seaside and Timaru – a familyfriendly spot with plenty of room for picnics and leisurely walks. Timaru’s annual Christmas and New Year carnival is probably the best and busiest time to visit.

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As the main entry point for international visitors to New Zealand’s South Island, Christchurch reflects this theme of diversity, combining ‘big city’ amenities and attractions with ‘small town’ charm.

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CHRISTCHURCH MAP

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Map courtesy Hema Maps NZ

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© Ruby Boutique

© Sakaguchi

SHOPPING in Christchurch Shopping bag one: SAKAGUCHI

Japanese designer and couturier Takaaki Sakaguchi is the brains behind the Sakaguchi fashion label, which recently showcased at the Style Christchurch 2009 event.

To pick up some hot designs straight off the runway, visit Sakaguchi’s flagship boutique in Christchurch. The range consists of urban, couture and soirée designs aimed at modern and style-conscious women.

Address: 203 Papanui Road, Merivale, Christchurch Tel: +64 3 355 2951 www.sakaguchi.co.nz

Shopping bag two: RUBY BOUTIQUE

BALLANTYNES

Located in City Mall, Ballantynes has been a Mecca for stylish shoppers for more than 100 years. Ballantynes is a family business with a history deeply rooted in making itself a local landmark in Christchurch. Stocking a fantastic range of exclusive brands, such as RM Williams, Kenzo, Polo Ralph Lauren, Witchery and Calvin Klein Jeans, Ballantynes has an extensive range of fashion and accessories that cannot be readily found anywhere else on the South Island. While you’re here be sure to check out the Contemporary Lounge, which caters to shoppers seeking high-end street-wear brands like Ben Sherman, Diesel and FCUK. Address: City Mall, Christchurch Tel: +64 3 379 7400 www.ballantynes.com

Shopping bag four:

WESTFIELD RICCARTON SHOPPING CENTRE

Westfield Riccarton Shopping Centre is a fantastic spot to find all of the latest men’s and women’s wear designs from popular brands like Country Road, Esprit, Portmans and Veronika Maine. If fashion is not your passion, however, then Westfield Riccarton also houses electronic, cosmetic, beauty, sports and homewares brands.

Address: 129 Riccarton Road, Riccarton, Christchurch Tel: +64 3 983 4500 www.westfield.co.nz/riccarton

Shopping bag five: VICTORIA STREET

Victoria Street is a trendy shopping precinct located just north of the city centre. Renowned for its quaint jewellery and antique stores, Victoria Street also boasts a multitude of fashion retailers that make this little shopping street a fantastic shopping detour. w

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Ruby Boutique is a unique shopping gem that exclusively showcases designs from three labels: Ruby, Madame Hawke and It is what it is (i.i.w.i.i.); all pieces are designed in-house and range from bohemian chic to cutting edge couture. In addition to these in-house labels, Ruby Boutique also stocks a selection of local and Australian labels like Kathryn Wilson, One Teaspoon and The Cassette Society. If you enjoy high fashion and effortlessly carry off bespoke designs, it doesn’t get any better than this.

Address: 199 High Street, Christchurch Central Tel: +64 3 372 3465 www.rubynz.com

Shopping bag three:

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Christchurch has plenty of hidden shopping gems to uncover, and searching for unique fashion finds is half the run, right? Jacklyn Lloyd helps point you in the right direction.

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© Pegasus Bay

DINING in Christchurch THE BICYCLE THIEF 21 Latimer Square, Christchurch Tel: +64 3 379 2264

THE LAKES RESTAURANT Clearwater Avenue, Harewood, Christchurch Tel: +64 3 360 1002

The Bicycle Thief, named after Vittorio De Sica’s 1948 Italian film: Ladri di Biciclette (which translates literally as ‘bicycle thieves’), is surely a unique name for a restaurant. The only connection that I can decipher is that The Bicycle Thief, true to its Italian name, serves up classic Italiano antipasti, primi (entrées), secondi (mains) and dolci (desserts). Each portion of the menu is thoughtfully prepared and true to its Italian inspiration.

The Lakes Restaurant, located within New Zealand’s premier Peppers Clearwater Resort, offers something for everyone. Whether you have just completed 18 holes of golf or have simply dropped by Clearwater to relax on the lakeside deck with friends and family, The Lakes Restaurant is renowned for quenching the hunger of relaxed holidaymakers, with its contemporary fine dining menu.

CHRISTCHURCH TRAMWAY RESTAURANT Departs daily from Cathedral Junction Tel: +64 3 366 7511

PEGASUS BAY WINERY AND RESTAURANT Stockgrove Road, Waipara Road North of Christchurch Tel: +64 3 314 6869

Take a tour of central Christchurch on one of New Zealand’s restored vintage trams. While taking in the sights – beautifully illuminated in the evening – enjoy an extensive menu of classically prepared dishes like fillet of beef matched with the sharpness of Pakiri blue cheese – a richly wholesome pairing. For something light, end your meal with an old time favourite of mini Pavlova served with fresh cream and seasonal fruits, finished off with lashings of marbled chocolate.

Winning the acclaimed title of ‘New Zealand’s Best Winery Restaurant’ in 2009 (Cuisine magazine), Pegasus Bay continues to impress. Located on a magnificent property tended to by the Donaldson family, Pegasus Bay Winery and Restaurant places a massive emphasis on the freshness and simplicity of locally grown ingredients.

Each dish, like the pinot noir, raspberry and mint sorbet, is created around the winery’s own exceptional wine list.

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Match the stunning landscape of Christchurch with a magnificent meal and a delightful glass of wine. Jacklyn Lloyd offers some of her finest dining suggestions…

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Frederic Berhault ST GERMAIN RESTAURANT Frederic Berhault and his brother, Vincent, are the owners of St Germain Restaurant What made you move from France and set up a restaurant in New Zealand?

Before arriving in New Zealand I spent four years managing a French restaurant in Dublin, while Vincent was working as a sommelier in a Michelin star restaurant in Madrid. I basically left Europe because I met a beautiful Kiwi girl and decided to follow her to New Zealand. Vincent arrived two years ago just to visit us and he never left. From then it was inevitable, we’ve both been in the industry for 20 years and it has always been a dream, it was just a question of time and opportunity.

What do you think St Germain brings to Christchurch’s fine dining scene?

I think St Germain brings authenticity and professionalism. We deliver a real French fine dining experience. In France, working in a restaurant is a serious job. You don’t end up in a restaurant if it is not a passion. My brother and I have spent six years in a catering school and we have 40 years of experience between us. We love what we do and we do it well.

French diners are renowned for having some of the best palates in the world, how do you think New Zealand’s diners have responded to your cuisine?

Surprisingly, very well. Being the only French restaurant in Christchurch we thought it would be challenging, but New Zealand is a nation of travellers and lots of our regulars are going or have been to France. © St Germain Restaurant

Take in the panoramic views of Kaikoura’s Mount Fyffe, Lake Ellesmere and the Southern Alps while enjoying Pinnacle Restaurant’s delectable and magnificently plated dishes. The pan seared New Zealand scallops served on a creamy agria puree is simplicity perfected and tremendously comforting.

ROSSENDALE RESTAURANT AND WINERY 136 Old Tai Tapu Road, Halswell, Christchurch Tel: +64 3 322 7780

Situated in breathtaking garden surrounds, Rossendale is a stunning place to enjoy a romantic dinner for two while enjoying the exclusive boutique wines available. Make sure you try the beef, as Rossendale has its own farm that has produced exceptional beef since 1987. It has won nine New Zealand Beef and Lamb Hallmark of Excellence Awards since 1999 alone.

ST GERMAIN RESTAURANT 121 Worcester Street, Christchurch Tel: +64 3 366 9046

THE GLOBE CAFÉ 171 High Street, Christchurch Tel: +64 3 366 4704

Get in amongst the hustle and bustle of the High Street. Globe is a café-style establishment that is a trendy little spot for a quick bite to eat. Voted Christchurch’s number one café, Globe has a healthy selection of menu choices to snack on. The French toast served with bacon and bananas is a less healthy option – but it tastes oh-so good.

TIFFANY’S RESTAURANT 95 Oxford Terrace, Christchurch Tel: +64 3 379 1350

Tiffany’s is renowned for its taste plates, where there is an option in each section of the menu, and diners are encouraged to create their own selection of three dishes, each served as an exact miniature on one plate. Enjoy experimenting with your choice of flavours, textures and menu combinations. w

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Enjoy a French sojourn while sharing an entrée of pheasant and morel pâté en croûte or a traditional cassoulet. The

flavours that best reflect St Germain are rich, elegant and très chic. New to Christchurch’s fine dining scene, the St Germain Restaurant prides itself on serving authentic French cuisine, influenced by the Brittany region of France, within a cosy and sophisticated setting.

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PINNACLE RESTAURANT 10 Bridle Path Road, Heathcote, Christchurch Tel: +64 3 384 0707

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THE CHAMPAGNE CAFÉ Struthers Lane Christchurch Tel: +64 3 964 5260

Christchurch may be known for its picturesque surrounds, but, as Bonnie Ho discovers, it’s the native ‘nightlife’ that will really set the backdrop for your intrepid adventures. © Moji

Also known as ‘La Petite Croix’, this venue serves up a little slice of Parisian café culture during the day, while at night the lights are dimmed and the champagne flows freely…

SAGGIO DI VINO 185 Victoria Street Christchurch Tel: +64 3 379 4006

Saggio di Vino is all about the ‘vino’. Not content with having just one wine list, Saggio boasts a ‘wine library’ that extends to special occasion vintage grape varieties.

The name Dux de Lux – Latin for ‘Masters of the Finest’ instils great expectations. Luckily for patrons Dux rarely disappoints with its awardwinning range of house brews. We recommend the Alpine Ale.

LE PLONK 213 Manchester Street Christchurch Tel: +64 3 377 7724

This aptly named wine bar oozes old-world charm, featuring comfortable leather couches, live jazz music and an impressive wine list that specialises in top New Zealand wines.

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DUX DE LUX Corner Hereford and Montreal Streets Christchurch Tel: +64 3 366 6919

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INDOCHINE 209 Cambridge Terrace Christchurch Tel: +64 3 365 7323

© Alchemy Restaurant & Bar

At Indochine, East meets West – and is promptly shaken and stirred, at this exotic cocktail bar. It’s all about the delicate equilibrium between European and Asian cultures at Indochine, with the ‘Yin Yang’ cocktail; a deliciously ‘balanced’ elixir of Bison grass vodka, sake, lychees, watermelon and tamarind juice; together delivering unified perfection. © Le Plonk

205 YAKITORI LOUNGE 205 Manchester Street Christchurch Tel: +64 3 961 1359

Named Bar of the Year in 2009, the 205 Yakitori Lounge offers authentic Japanese yakitori (appetisers), and an array of awardwinning Asian infused cocktails.

Enjoy live music every Friday and Saturday night and settle in for a fun night out or a relaxed dining experience.

Enjoy a little culture with your tipple at the Alchemy Restaurant & Bar, located within an art gallery: Te Puna O Waiwhetu. Take a seat outside on the terrace and look out onto the stunning views of the Sculpture Garden, Worcester Boulevard and the Arts Centre.

SAMMY’S JAZZ REVIEW 14 Bedford Row Christchurch Tel: +64 3 377 8618

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Head to Sammy’s Jazz Review for a night out with real ‘sax’ appeal.

Boasting tasty cocktails, great food and a live band performing seven nights a week, Sammy’s Jazz Review promises a great night out for all. w

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ALCHEMY RESTAURANT & BAR 49 Worcester Boulevard Christchurch Tel: +64 3 941 7311

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WELCOME TO Queenstown Gemma Peckham discovers that Queenstown offers much more than just superficial beauty – it has a heart to match.

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ueenstown was originally a gold-mining town, and when the gold-mining boom of the late 1800s slowed to a halt, the town was all but deserted. Little did the miners know that the exact place that they’d been looking for gold was an absolute gem waiting to be uncovered.

Offering ample activities for any type of visitor, Queenstown is a year-round holiday destination. Whether you’re looking for an adrenalin-fuelled hair-raising adventure to knock your socks off, a relaxing spa trip or just some time out from the daily grind, Queenstown will not disappoint.

Queenstown is known for its adventure sports, and with good reason. It’s an adrenalin junkie’s delight, offering endless opportunities to get your heart rate up.

Queenstown was in fact home to some of the world’s first commercial jet boating, bungy jumping and river surfing adventures, so there’s no shortage of things to jump off,

ride on or hold tightly onto. If the thought of bungy jumping terrifies you, however, consider this: the oldest person ever to take the plunge off Kawarau Bridge was 94 years old!

The Southern Lakes region, where Queenstown is situated, is also home to New Zealand’s best skiing. It offers a remarkable range of options for the downhill enthusiast. So remarkable, in fact, that this region is one of the most popular ski destinations for beginners, families and regular snow bunnies alike.

The most unsurpassable mountain range in the area is known as The Remarkables, and it certainly lives up to its moniker. Other ski resorts with slopes that consistently delight visitors include Coronet Peak and Cardrona.

While you’re putting your body through its paces with such high-energy activities, your camera will also get a workout of its own. Not only is the township stunning,

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TSS Earnslaw. © Destination Queenstown

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Just imagine: rugged mountain ranges catching warm sunlight in the summer, while displaying a frosty magnificence in winter – picture perfect, just like a postcard. is blessed with 82 registered wineries and more than 150 tempting eateries, so you’ll always find just what you’re looking for. Alfresco or al dente, seafood or sauvignon blanc, the choice is yours – and it’s all so, so good.

If it strikes you that Queenstown is a mélange of all things marvellous, you’ll be happy to know that the culture of this town encapsulates the spirit of the region.

Local artisans give visitors the opportunity to watch them in action, demonstrating the urge to capture the beauty of the region through painting, sculpture and photography.

For a keepsake of your visit to Queenstown, every Saturday morning on the lake’s edge, Steamer Wharf hosts a market bursting with local works that reflect the colour and character of Queenstown.

If you’ve decided to get away from it all, and you can’t decide whether to plan an adventure holiday or a peaceful escape, Queenstown is a place where you don’t have to decide. This is a place where you can have it all. w

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but the surrounding areas of mountainous terrain, forests, lakes and glaciers will ensure that your lens cap is always off. Just imagine: rugged mountain ranges catching warm sunlight in the summer, while displaying a frosty magnificence in winter – picture perfect, just like a postcard.

In keeping with the extreme nature of the area, Lake Wakatipu is shaped like a lightning bolt – and the views can be just as electrifying. On a clear day, the lake is like a fallen piece of blue sky and under cloud cover, the crystal blue water is as royal as Queenstown’s namesake.

The TSS Earnslaw steamship, launched in 1912 and beautifully restored, cruises along the lake, allowing you to take in the stunning scenery of the region from the deck of this iconic Queenstown treasure.

Adventure and sightseeing can really build up an appetite, so it’s a good thing that Queenstown’s wining and dining is second to none. The Central Otago region

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Map courtesy Hema Maps NZ

QUEENSTOWN MAP

Gantleys remains one of the country’s finest restaurants, consistently presenting outstanding food and superlative wines – the historic building and 2 acres of landscaped gardens is the stuff memories are made of. Situated in a historic building, Gantleys has a unique place in the hearts of locals and is of great interest to visitors.

Starched linen, crystal stemware and candles give the place a romantic touch.

Gantleys is regularly awarded by New York’s Wine Spectator magazine for its world-class wine list. The cuisine is based on New Zealand’s best produce prepared with passion and flair, with an international influence. The extensive menu features seafood, lamb, venison, prime beef, duck and stunning desserts. Owners, Brent Rands (sommelier) and Jared Aldridge (head chef)

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specialise in the art of food and wine matching, which is complemented by professional and personalised service. Their skill is evident in the popular six-course degustation menu.

Opening hours: Open 7 days from 6pm until late

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172 Arthurs Point Road Queenstown Tel: +64 3 442 8999 Fax: + 64 3 442 7007 Email: Gantleys@xtra.co.nz Web: www.gantleys.co.nz

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SHOPPING in Queenstown Jacklyn Lloyd puts down her bungy jump rope and seeks some thrills of a different kind as she uncovers Queenstown’s fabulous shopping destinations.

© Pounamu Pearls

Shopping bag three: OUTSIDE SPORTS

You’re in the adventure capital of New Zealand, so no doubt you need to pick up some sporting gear to really look the part. Whether you like skiing or snowboarding off snowcapped mountains, or hiking or biking before you retire for the evening in a tent while camping under the stars, whichever way you get your dose of adrenalin, Outdoor Sports will have all your bases covered. This is Queenstown’s largest sports store and the staff will go to great lengths to get you sorted promptly, so that you can get out there and enjoy Queenstown’s great outdoors in no time.

Address: 36-38 Shotover Street, Queenstown Tel: +64 3 441 0074 www.outsidesports.co.nz

Shopping bag four: POUNAMU PEARLS

Shopping bag one: ANGEL DIVINE

Angel Divine stocks a roll-call of New Zealand’s top designers like Zambesi, Kate Sylvester, Cybele and Karen Walker. Prepare to give your credit card a workout, as this boutique is renowned for stocking some of the best designer fashion for both women and men. The Angel Divine boutique makes perusing designer garments an elegant and gratifying experience.

Address: 3 Searle Lane, Queenstown Tel: +64 3 442 8988

Pounamu Pearls, located in the centre of Queenstown, stocks Eyris Blue Pearls, which are deemed New Zealand’s rarest of pearls. Also known as Paua or ‘Halitosis Iris’, the colourful host shell of the pearls is only found in the clear, pure waters of New Zealand. At Pounamu Pearls you can choose from a selection of pearl sizes and colours that are set in exquisite designs that best showcase the beauty of each unique pearl. Each Eyris Blue Pearl has a traceable history from the diver who gathered the pearl, which is authenticated with a certificate detailing each pearl’s unique identity. For a stunning keepsake of your holiday to New Zealand, an Eyris Blue Pearl will leave you forever nostalgic about your visit to Queenstown – a city that is hardly forgettable. w Address: 41 Beach Street, Queenstown Tel: +64 3 442 9611 © Outside Sports

IVAN CLARKE GALLERY

Some people deem fashion wearable art, while others are a bit more literal. If you’re the kind of shopper who prefers to invest in collectable pieces of art, the Ivan Clarke Gallery has a captivating collection of paintings that capture New Zealand’s unforgettable landscapes through mesmerising and impressive works. Having sold his paintings since the tender age of 11, today Clarke’s art is showcased on everything from surfboards to billboards, and even high-rise buildings.

Address: The Forge Building, 35 Camp Street, Queenstown Tel: +64 3 442 5232 www.ivanclarkegallery.com

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Shopping bag two:

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SHOTOVER JET

Info Desk, Queenstown Information Centre Corner Camp and Shotover Streets, Queenstown or Dart Operations Base, Mull Street, Glenorchy Tel: +64 3 442 9992, Free Phone (within NZ only): 0800 DART JET Email: reservations@dartriverjetsafaris.co.nz Web: www.dartriverjetsafaris.com

Shotover Jet Beach Gorge Road, Arthurs Point, Queenstown Tel: +64 3 442 8570 Free Phone (within NZ only): 0800 SHOTOVER Email: reservations@shotoverjet.co.nz Web: www.shotoverjet.com

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Queenstown to Glenorchy, at the head of mighty Lake Wakatipu and into the pristine Dart River Valley and Mount Aspiring National Park.

Explore this spectacular area that is steeped in legend and mystery with one of our 3 amazing Safaris and experience ‘New Zealand’s Most Sensational Journey.’

World famous as the ultimate jet boat experience, Shotover Jet has thrilled over 2.5 million people since 1970, and now it’s your turn! Take a unique breathtaking ride through dramatic and narrow canyons, and hold on tight for Queenstown’s only exhilarating full 360° spins. ‘Can you handle 30979_1

the canyons?’ with award winning Shotover Jet, The World’s Most Exciting Jet Boat Ride, and the only company permitted to operate in the spectacular Shotover River Canyons.

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Dart River Jet Safaris is the unique combination of breathtaking World Heritage scenery, exciting wilderness jet boating, Maori heritage, and inspiring adventure – each experience is a truly authentic discovery that makes New Zealand an exceptional destination. They are diverse adventures from

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DART RIVER JET SAFARIS

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© Pier 19

DINING in Queenstown BOARDWALK SEAFOOD RESTAURANT Level 1, Steamer Wharf, Queenstown Tel: +64 3 442 5630

EICHARDT’S HOUSE BAR Eichardt’s Private Hotel, Marine Parade, Queenstown Tel: +64 3 441 0442

Fresh mussels steamed with apple cider, pan seared yellowfin tuna, tempura calamari and fresh Pacific oysters all await seafood lovers at the Boardwalk Seafood Restaurant. While Boardwalk is one of New Zealand’s premier seafood specialists, delicious beef, game and lamb dishes are also available.

While seated at Eichardt’s House Bar, guests are treated to a delectable lunch and tapas menu. The oven roasted butternut pumpkin and potato gnocchi is sublime with spinach, pine nuts, parmesan and Persian feta creating a match made in heaven. Get in quick, because this venue is extremely exclusive.

BOTSWANA BUTCHERY Archers Cottage, 17 Marine Parade, Queenstown Tel: +64 3 442 6994

FISHBONE BAR AND GRILL 7 Beach Street, Queenstown Tel: +64 3 442 6768

The Botswana Butchery is the talk of the town. Locals and visitors are all talking about Botswana’s delicious food and outstanding décor. Overlooking Lake Wakatipu, Botswana is renowned for dishing up some of the finest cuts of meat, washed down with a fabulous selection of wines.

The interior may be fun and wacky, but the staff at Fishbone take their seafood very seriously. An old favourite with locals, Fishbone serves fresh char-grilled salmon steaks, clam linguine and monster-sized fish burgers. Cheerful service and a bright atmosphere make this place perfect for the whole family.

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Queenstown is known as an adventure lover’s playground, so no doubt you’ve built up quite an appetite. Livia Chan suggests some of Queenstown’s most outstanding restaurants.

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Martin James CO-OWNER AND CHEF, WAI WATERFRONT RESTAURANT Why is it important to you to showcase exotic and local ingredients?

Taste and flavour are the ultimate goals, so we source our ingredients carefully. It is important to showcase local produce, as people travelling to New Zealand from other countries should be given the opportunity to taste the amazing bounty of the South Island.

What would you consider to be your signature dish?

One dish that has been on the degustation menu for several years is a quail carbonara: hand-rolled spaghetti, braised quail, Marsala and Sicilian olives, wrapped in Parma ham and finished with a quail’s yolk.

How do you view Queenstown’s fine dining scene?

Queenstown is a great place to dine as there are so many restaurants offering different cuisines and styles of dining. Wai’s philosophy is one of fine dining with a relaxed atmosphere. We take our food and service very seriously and are professional at all times; however, a meal is something to be enjoyed, and conversation and laughter are essential.

What is your favourite local ingredient to cook with?

We get some great rabbit out of Bendigo, near Cromwell. The whitebait from the West Coast is second to none and we also get some great groper from Fiordland. Being in Central Otago we are in the middle of one of the world’s finest wine growing regions and it is always a privilege to cook food that is complemented by a fantastic local pinot noir.

PIER 19 Steamer Wharf, Beach Street, Queenstown Tel: +64 3 442 4006

as sophisticated. Head chef Gwen Harvie has created a fine menu with locally sourced produce that is superbly accompanied by an equally impressive wine list.

This unpretentious restaurant takes no short-cuts by offering a contemporary cuisine that is both generous and refined. Situated on the beautiful Steamer Wharf, Pier 19 offers alfresco dining during the warmer months, with magnificent views all year round.

WAI WATERFRONT RESTAURANT Ground Floor, Steamer Wharf Beach Street, Queenstown Tel: +64 3 442 5969

SOLERA VINO 25 Beach Street, Queenstown Tel: +64 3 442 6082

Brush up on your high school French as you step into this cosy and inviting restaurant. The two French restaurant owners are known to zip around serving classic bistro-style food such as rabbit casserole and confit of duck served with six spices, thyme and honey. Make sure you also try Solera Vino’s much-loved onion soup.

THE BUNKER Cow Lane, Queenstown Tel: +64 3 441 8030

WINNIES 7-9 The Mall, Queenstown Tel: +64 3 442 8635

How can you go past Winnies? Mention comfort food in Queenstown and it’s the first name you’ll hear. It may not be flashy, but Winnies sure does a great pizza. Of course there are old favourites like Hawaiian pizza, but there are also unique pizza toppings like Thai curry chicken, with roasted peanuts, coconut and crispy noodles. w

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The hidden location, fireplace and brown leather armchairs will make you feel as though you have stepped into your own private club, and the food is just

The care that co-owner and chef Martin James has taken to source exotic and local ingredients is evident in the exquisite dishes offered at Wai Waterfront.

Specialising in seafood, Wai Waterfront tempts diners with dishes like pan seared Kingfish, served on a bed of New Zealand asparagus, topped off with a soft boiled quail’s egg.

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© Wai Waterfront Restaurant

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THE BUNKER Cow Lane Queenstown Tel: +64 3 441 8030

What do adventure lovers do after hours in Queenstown? Livia Chan discovers Queenstown’s after dark drinking holes that boast tempting cocktail and wine lists, impeccable service and smooth beats.

Just like its restaurant, The Bunker bar oozes a private club feel. With dark lighting, a crackling fire, leather sofas and smooth beats played by a DJ on the weekends, The Bunker offers exclusivity and intimacy, as well as a premium range of cocktails and spirits. Nestled in Cow Lane, The Bunker is truly one of Queenstown’s greatest hidden gems.

THE WORLD BAR 27 Shotover Street Queenstown Tel: +64 3 442 6757

BARDEAUX Eureka Arcade Queenstown Tel: +64 3 442 8284

Said to be more NY than NZ, Bardeaux is sophistication with a capital ‘S’, darling. But don’t be fooled into thinking that the classy atmosphere means inhospitable service. The staff at Bardeaux are friendly and more than happy to offer their knowledgeable advice on the vintage cellar collection.

© The Bunker Restaurant and Bar

You may not normally associate a night out with teapots, but then again The World Bar does pride itself on being unique and eccentric. Set in a beautiful wooden-clad building, World Bar offers exceptional service, quirky décor and Queenstown-famous cocktails served in teapots.

Along Searle Lane you’ll discover the opulent Barmuda bar, where you can choose to sit perched at the long bar inside, or enjoy a beverage under the stars in the private stone courtyard outside.

THE YACHT CLUB Steamer Wharf Queenstown Tel: +64 3 441 8238

Located on Queenstown’s Steamer Wharf waterfront, this premium bar has spectacular mountain-range views and a fine Central Otago influenced wine list. Don’t forget to try a gourmet platter, which goes magnificently well with a glass of the region’s finest vino.

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BARMUDA Searle Lane Queenstown Tel: +64 3 442 7300

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BLUE DOOR BAR 18 Buckingham Street Arrowtown Tel: +64 3 442 0885

Behind the infamous blue doors rests a bar with rustic charm and an impressive wine list. Located next to the award-winning Saffron restaurant, Blue Door Bar will appeal to a modern and sophisticated crowd, who enjoy a relaxed and leisurely ambience.

EICHARDT’S HOUSE BAR Marine Parade Queenstown Tel: +64 3 441 0450

A long time favourite, Eichardt’s House Bar lives up to its reputation. The bar is chic and cosy, and the service is impeccable and discreet. Whether you’re after coffee and cake, a pre-dinner drink or a night in itself, this is one indulgence that must be experienced.

© Eichardt’s Private Hotel

SKYBAR 26 Camp Street Queenstown Tel: +64 3 442 4283

BAR UP Corner Searle Lane and Eureka Arcade Queenstown Tel: +64 3 442 7067

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Bar Up knows how to make the most of Queenstown’s seasons. In winter it’s the perfect retreat from the snow with its log-cabin ambience, while in summer the breeze filters through the French doors from the balcony and creates an ideal summertime mood.

Bar Up may be a little difficult to find, but it’s well worth the effort. w

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Situated above the hustle and bustle of Queenstown is the spacious Skybar, where the walls are decorated with works from local artists and the balcony offers you stunning views of Queenstown’s skyline.

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WELCOME TO Dunedin Destinations such as Queenstown can be the obvious choice for visitors to New Zealand, but Jane Kyprios realises that smaller spots like Dunedin are intimate yet lively with a surprising amount to offer.

begin at the historic Dunedin Railway Station, where incidentally you can find a fantastic farmers’ market on a Saturday morning and perhaps pick up some fresh bread, cheese and wine for lunch. The UK DK Eyewitness Travel Guide has even cited the railway station as one of the world’s 200 ‘must see’ places. As you step aboard the beautiful Taieri Gorge train I will allow you to indulge in a few Harry Potter fantasies, because from the moment you are whisked over the Taieri River Gorge, through dark tunnels made of schist rock and eclipsed on either side by awe-inspiring mountains, you can truly believe you are travelling through somewhere magical.

But perhaps all you need is somewhere to take the kids for a day, or a reward for all the hiking you’ve endured during this holiday. What about New Zealand’s answer to the Willy Wonka factory – Dunedin’s Cadbury World? You can slip into a 75-minute tour of unadulterated gluttony, including a theatre presentation, unique silo chocolate fall and armfuls of sweet, melting product samples.

While the children sleep off their chocolate overdose, adults can escape to the Dunedin Casino. The moment you step through the imposing entrance onto the sprawling mosaic floors you are swept back in time.

As you take in the lavish Italian renaissance interior (dating back to the late 1800s), your eyes will no doubt fall on the great sweeping staircase, or perhaps you will disappear into one of the private gaming rooms with deep red rugs, walls swathed in black velvet and a ceiling adorned in intricate gold designs. Before you leave, however, you mustn’t forget to look up at the ultimate feature of this impressive casino – the glass dome roof.

So now that you are suitably excited and grabbing your swimsuit, hiking shoes, stilettos and credit card, let me advise you on the weather. Generally Dunedin enjoys relatively warm summers topping 30 degrees, while winters are cool, but with little snowfall. You will also encounter a fair amount of cloud in Dunedin; however, there is also plenty of sunshine. The city is nestled in a prime position; the surrounding hills provide a considerable amount of shelter from any severe weather the rest of Otago may be experiencing. As for the locals – they recommend autumn as the prime time of year to visit this culturally diverse and picturesque city. So what are you waiting for? w

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W

hen flying into New Zealand, visions of raw wind-weathered rock, a sweeping expanse of verdant green, rain-scented air, and striking coastline can lead you to believe that you have descended into a mythical land. Dunedin, set on the southern coast of the South Island, offers all of this – but is equally renowned for the vibrancy of its modern city centre.

It is at once an award-winning eco-friendly, natural destination, but with the unique benefit of a buzzing art culture. Fear not. You can dismiss thoughts of tedious travels around sterile museums. This is not some barren country street with a corner shop and little else. Dunedin is home to the country’s oldest and most prestigious university, the University of Otago, which has given the city an atmosphere rich in music, art, fashion and culture. In fact, the streets of this city are lined with some of the greatest examples of preserved Victorian and Edwardian heritage buildings in the southern hemisphere. Combine this intricate historical architecture with the thrill of fashion boutiques, modern restaurants, eclectic cafés and booming nightclubs and you have a city that masters the difficult task of providing for the old, the young, the nature-lovers and the well-heeled strutters. On top of that, Dunedin is also home to some of the rarest wildlife in the world. There’s simply no excuse for a languid holiday here.

If you’re keen to start your sightseeing adventures in the city centre, head to the Octagon, a busy gathering place lined with cosmopolitan fashion stores and eateries packed with people-watchers and the most discerning of diners.

Still not convinced? Did I forget to mention this city has its own castle? Imagine a building of sheer majesty, guarded by stone lions, set among thick, rambling gardens. And you can go further than just a day trip – why not treat yourself to a night at the Larnach Castle?

Perched atop the peninsula, Larnach was built in 1871 by the merchant, baron and politician William Larnach, for his beloved first wife, Eliza. While visiting Larnach, you may choose to explore 12 elaborately themed rooms, take tea in the opulent dining room, or celebrate into the wee hours in the grand ballroom.

If you are a bit of a romantic and the idea of a castle tickles your fancy, just wait until you take the awardwinning journey on the Taieri Gorge train. Your day will

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Imagine a building of sheer majesty, guarded by stone lions, set in among thick, rambling gardens.

Taieri Gorge train. © Dunedin Tourism

Dunedin Castle. © Dunedin Tourism

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Kayaking, Tairoa Head. © Dunedin Tourism

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HOTEL DIRECTORY Welcome to New Zealand is featured in the following luxury hotels: North Island Rendezvous Hotel Auckland City Life Auckland Copthorne Harbour City Hotel Crowne Plaza Auckland Duxton Hotel Auckland Heritage Hotel Hyatt Regency Auckland Langham Hotel Auckland Mercure Hotel Auckland Mollies Hotel Apartments Quay West Suites Auckland Sky City Auckland Sky City Grand Hotel Spencer on Byron Stamford Plaza Auckland The Sebel Suites Auckland Esplanade Hotel Devonport Distinction Rotorua Millennium Hotel Rotorua Rydges Rotorua Solitaire Lodge Huka Lodge Wairakei Resort Bayview Chateau Tongariro City Life Wellington Copthorne Hotel Wellington Duxton Hotel Wellington Hotel Inter-Continental Wellington James Cook Hotel Grand Chancellor Quest Atrium Quest on the Terrace Quest Wellington The Wellesley

Corner Mayoral Drive and Vincent Streets, Auckland 171 Queen Street, Auckland 196 Quay Street, Auckland 128 Albert Street, Auckland 100 Greys Avenue, Auckland 35 Hobson Street, Auckland Corner Waterloo Quadrant and Princes Street, Auckland 83 Symonds Street, Auckland 8 Customs Street, Auckland 6 Tweed Street, St Mary’s Bay, Auckland 8 Albert Street, Auckland Corner Victoria and Federal Streets, Auckland 88 Federal Street, Auckland 9-17 Byron Avenue, Takapuna Beach, Auckland 22 Lower Albert Street, Auckland 85-89 Customs Street West, Auckland 1 Victoria Road, Devonport 390 Fenton Street, Rotorua Corner Hinemaru and Eruera Streets, Rotorua 272 Fenton Street, Rotorua 16 Ronald Road, Lake Tarawera 271 Huka Falls Road, Taupo State Highway 1, Wairakei, Taupo State Highway 48, Whakapapa Village, Mount Ruapehu 300 Lambton Quay, Wellington 100 Oriental Parade, Wellington 170 Wakefield Street, Wellington 2 Grey Street, Wellington 147 The Terrace, Wellington 154 The Terrace, Wellington 120 The Terrace, Wellington Corner Hunter Street and Lambton Quay, Wellington 2-8 Maginnity Street, Wellington

+64 9 366 3000 +64 9 379 9222 +64 9 377 0349 +64 9 302 1111 +64 9 375 1800 +64 9 379 8553 +64 9 358 8007 +64 9 300 2882 +64 9 377 8920 +64 9 376 3489 +64 9 309 6000 +64 9 363 6000 +64 9 363 6170 +64 9 916 6111 +64 9 309 8888 +64 9 978 4000 +64 9 445 1291 +64 7 349 5200 +64 7 347 1234 +64 7 349 0099 +64 7 362 8208 +64 7 378 5791 +64 7 374 8021 +64 7 892 3809 +64 4 472 8588 +64 4 385 0279 +64 4 473 3900 +64 4 472 2722 +64 4 499 9500 +64 4 931 1000 +64 4 470 1820 +64 4 916 0700 +64 4 474 1308

189 Deans Avenue, Christchurch Clearwater Avenue, Christchurch Corner Durham and Kilmore Streets, Christchurch 28-30 Cathederal Square, Christchurch 356 Oxford Terrace, Christchurch 172 Cashael Street, Christchurch 14 Cathederal Square, Christchurch 224 Rhodes Road, Tai Tapu, Christchurch 113 Worcester Street, Christchurch Corner Oxford Terrace and Worcester Street, Christchurch 50 Park Terrace, Christchurch Beach Street, Queenstown Marine Parade, Queenstown 10-18 Brunswick Street, Queenstown Sainsbury Road, Fernhill, Queenstown Corner Frankton Road and Stanley Street, Queenstown Corner Marine Parade and Earl Street, Queenstown 146 Arthur’s Point Road, Arthur’s Point, Queenstown 91 Fernhill Road, Queenstown Malagahans Road, Arrowtown

+64 3 348 8999 +64 3 360 1000 +64 3 365 7799 +64 3 377 9722 +64 3 379 1180 +64 3 365 8888 +64 3 365 1111 +64 3 329 6333 +64 3 964 6200 +64 3 379 4700 +64 3 379 4560 +64 3 442 7800 +64 3 441 0450 +64 3 442 4990 +64 3 442 6600 +64 3 441 8888 +64 3 442 7750 +64 3 441 0288 +64 3 442 4988 +64 3 441 7000

Chateau on the Park Peppers Clearwater Resort Crowne Plaza Christchurch Heritage Hotel Christchurch Holiday Inn on Avon Holiday Inn City Centre Millenium Christchurch Otahuna Lodge Quest Christchurch Rydges Christchurch The George Hotel Crowne Plaza Queenstown Eichardts Private Hotel Mercure Grand St Moritz Mercure Resort Queenstown Millenium Hotel Queenstown Novotel Gardens Queenstown Nugget Point Boutique Hotel The Heritage Queenstown Millbrook Resort

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