WELCOME TO NEW ZEALAND 2011/2012
PLEASE DO NOT REMOVE NZ $25incl GST
Contents
Welcome To New Zealand 012 Credits 014 Message from the Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism 016 Message from the Managing Editor
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018 Welcome to New Zealand 026 Map of New Zealand 028 Fast Facts 031 Express Yourself 036 Rugby World Cup 042 Arts and Culture
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048 Made in New Zealand 058 Fashion
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068 Timepieces 074 Taste 178 Hotel Directory
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Elegance is an attitude
Longines PrimaLuna
www.longines.com
Kate Winslet
Contents
NORTH ISLAND 082 North Island Events Calendar 084 North Island Must Do’s 086 Welcome to Auckland
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094 Map of Auckland 096 Auckland: Perfect Day 102 Shopping in Auckland 110
Dining in Auckland
120 Auckland After Dark 122 Welcome to Northland 124 Welcome to Rotorua
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128 Welcome to Taupo and Ruapehu 130 Welcome to Wellington
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WELCOME TO NEW ZEALAND
132 Map of Wellington 136 Shopping Wellington 140 Dining Wellington 146 Wellington After Dark
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Contents
South Island 150 South Island Events 152 South Island Must Do’s 154 Welcome to Nelson and Marlborough
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156 Welcome to the West Coast 158 Welcome to Christchurch and Canterbury 160 Map of Christchurch 161 Shopping in Christchurch and Canterbury 162 Dining in Christchurch and Canterbury 164 Welcome to Queenstown 166 Map of Queenstown
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168 Shopping in Queenstown 170 Dining in Queenstown
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174 Queenstown After Dark 176 Welcome to Dunedin
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New Zealand by rail. Simply stunning.
Discover some of New Zealand’s most stunning scenery, only accessible by rail. Step aboard any of the Tranz Scenic journeys and you’ll enjoy full 360-degree views of the most pristine and untouched areas in the country. BOOK NOW at tranzscenic.co.nz or call 0800 TRAINS (872 467). TRS 1562
WELCOME TO NEW ZEALAND 2011/2012 PUBLISHER Tina Cooper MANAGING EDITOR Nyssa Veraphunt ART DIRECTOR Louise Ayres SALES AND ADVERTISING Maria Gatoudis Jessie Truscott PRODUCTION MANAGER Julia Garvey PRE-PRESS Nicole Gauci SUB-EDITOR Madeleine Swain CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Ben Erskine, Heather Bloom, Ting Teng, Lauren Rosewarne, Tui Thompson, Madonna Bowe, Jade Jones, Sam Eichblatt, Jamie Cook, Lilly Moyle, Julia Garvey, Jacklyn Lloyd, Siobhan Argent, Jennie Miller, Nicole Haddow, Emily Parker, Matthew McGuigan, Mary Erskine, Gemma Peckham, Livia Chan, Jane Kyprios
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welcome to NEW ZEALAND
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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 CHAIRMAN AND GROUP PUBLISHER Nicholas Dower MANAGING DIRECTOR Paul Lidgerwood GENERAL MANAGER Vicki Likoudis FINANCial controller Sonia Jurista STUDIO DESIGN MANAGER Keely Atkins digital MARKETING Liana Pappas 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
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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 2011/2012. No part may be reproduced by any process without the written permission of the publishers.
Message from the Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism John Key MP 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 so much to see – from glaciers and fiords, volcanoes and geysers, to ancient kauri forests, and rugged coastlines sporting whales, dolphins, and seals. There’s so much to taste – some of the freshest and most delicious food in the world and an array of delicious wines from almost every corner of the country. And there’s so much to do – from visiting a marae and learning the stories and traditions of Maori, playing golf on one of over 400 courses, to enjoying Wellington’s café and bar culture, or joining us for the Rugby World Cup in 2011. We are delighted to be hosting the Rugby World Cup this year. Alongside the World Cup, we’ll be hosting the REAL New Zealand Festival. This festival will showcase the very best of what New Zealand has to offer and I encourage you to check out the schedule of events at www.realnzfestival.com. If you are yet to travel to our country, I hope you will have the chance to visit us soon and enjoy some great Kiwi hospitality. And if you have been to our shores before, I hope you will be back before too long. Because no matter how familiar you are with New Zealand, there is always more to discover about our land and its people. We’d love to welcome you to our home and show you around.
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Welcome To New Zealand
Best wishes,
Rt Hon John Key Prime Minister Minister of Tourism
Message from the managing editor Nyssa Veraphunt There are many places that entice travellers to their shores with exotic and tantalisingly stunning images that beckon from the pages of travel magazines, only to become a visual letdown on arrival – rendering you with the sobering thought that things looked too good to be true because they were. Then there is New Zealand. We’ve all seen similarly stunning images of this vast, unspoilt land of rolling hills, jagged mountain ranges and verdant green pastures – the only difference being these images are real. Something that you will quickly realise is that there are no touch-ups needed here – in fact, those pictures don’t do the country justice. This is because New Zealand is a pleasure not only for the eyes, but for all the senses. The country has an abundance of delicious tastes, from the crisp sauv blancs of the Marlborough region to the mouth-watering battered paua patties of any respectable fish and chip shop. Then there are the earth shaking sounds of the haka or of a roaring music concert crowd, the ‘unique’ smells of volcanic wonderland Rotorua or the clean, fresh scent of a pine forest after a heavy rain – no matter what experience it is, the feelings you get from New Zealand are like nothing else on earth. And when you do arrive here, you will also realise that it is the people that actually make this place. They are a friendly bunch, proud of their country and even more enthusiastic to show it off. It’s a small country of four million that has a single community feel on a national scale. You will also find endearing their distinct spirit, which finds and celebrates the best in life; but has unfortunately been stuck with tragedy over the past year. In November 2010, there was the Pike River disaster in which 29 perished in a mine collapse, then only a few months later the Christchurch earthquake, which felled much of the city and took more than 160 lives. One thing remains the same, however, and that is the Kiwi character and resilience carries on and, in the face of adversity, continues to thrive. In the wake of such heartbreak, Kiwis still manage to extend a warm welcome to all travellers to New Zealand, and so we have endeavoured to keep our Christchurch section as up-to-date as best we can while the city recovers and rebuilds.
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But, as you can imagine, the reconstruction process is a long and gruelling one and at the time of print many of Christchurch’s attractions, shops and restaurants remain closed. Tourism authorities have urged visitors not to stay away, but rather visit other, unaffected places in the outer Canterbury region such as Hanmer, Akaroa and Kaikoura. Either way, we suggest that on arrival here, you should check with local tourist authorities or online for the most up-to-date information. We would like to dedicate this edition of Welcome to New Zealand to those who lost their lives and those who have been personally affected by the recent tragedies. To New Zealand as a whole – our condolences go out to you; we wish you well on the road to recovery and, after all that has happened in the past year, we give a particular thank you for kindly welcoming us in to your beautiful country.
Nyssa Veraphunt Managing editor, Welcome To luxury travel series The definitive resource for discerning travellers.
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New Zealand
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Milford Sound, South Island. Š J Featherston
WELCOME TO New Zealand
Grab your hiking boots, sense of adventure and thirst for experiencing something very special, as Ben Erskine take us on a tiki tour through the mountains, beaches, forests and vibrant culture that make up his colourful country.
Moeraki Boulders, South Island. © P Dmitry
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elcome to New Zealand or Aotearoa – the land of the long white cloud (in Maori) – and what we like to describe as our little piece of paradise nestled deep in the South Pacific. New Zealand is the youngest country on earth, as it was the last landmass in the world to be settled by humankind. Much of its purity and natural beauty of virgin rainforests, mountains and fertile soils remains as untouched today as it was when the Maori first landed here in the eighth century.
bunch, who are staunchly nuclear free, believe in a sustainable, eco-friendly lifestyle and were the first nation in the world to give women the vote. Kiwis take great pride and honour in protecting the rights and the landscape of their country for future generations to enjoy. New Zealand is also the first country in the world to see the sunrise each day and it’s just as well, as you will be itching to jump out of bed and experience a country absolutely packed with adventure, nature, culture, food, wine and
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Kiwis take great pride and honour in protecting the rights and the landscape of their countr y for future generations to enjoy. Around 1000 years after the Maori landed in New Zealand, local chiefs signed the Treaty of Waitangi with the English, who had wanted a stake in the country. The document founded the New Zealand we know today and remains extremely important in protecting the rights of all New Zealanders (or Kiwis, as they are affectionately known). Today, New Zealand has developed into a proud and independent nation full of cultural diversity, with strong European, Pacific and Asian influences. The people here are a liberal
breathtaking scenery. The locals here are so proud of their country that they are always willing to show it off to visitors and you will soon understand why, once you see for yourself what this place has to offer. And what is that? Let’s just say that if you’re impressed by lush forests, white sand beaches, rare wildlife, snow-covered peaks, huge freshwater lakes and mountain-ringed fiords, then you have come to the right place – New Zealand is a nature lover’s dream!
Snowboarder. © Ben Heys
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WELCOME TO New Zealand
It is also the ideal place to get your culture and food fix. Whether exploring the large cities of Auckland, Wellington or Christchurch, or adventuring through the small remote towns that dot this unique landscape, you will be overwhelmed by fine local wines, delectable food made from local produce, Maori and Pacific culture, local art and cuttingedge Kiwi fashion. New Zealand is also known as the adventure capital of the world, and for good reason too – it was here that the first bungy jump took place and, one could say, started the country’s love affair with adrenaline and adventure. From heli-skiing and river sledging, to zorbing and black water rafting, throughout the country you will find just about any blood-pumping activity
glacier walking in the wild West Coast and mountain climbing up New Zealand’s highest peak, Mount Cook. If pulse-pounding pursuits aren’t for you, however, don’t despair – there are plenty of relaxing activities to suit the less extreme traveller, as New Zealand is also packed with soothing thermal springs, world-class golf courses, sailing adventures, fishing spots and wine tours through the vast and diverse New Zealand wine country. Nature lovers will be amazed by the extensive range of eco tours on offer, where they can experience whales, dolphins, penguins, seals and birdlife, all set against their native and untouched natural habitat.
If you’re impressed by lush forests, white sand beaches, rare wildlife, snow-covered peaks, huge freshwater lakes and mountain-ringed fiords, then you have come to the right place. you could imagine and a few you couldn’t quite ever have dreamed of. Popular pastimes include snowboarding on the active volcano Mount Ruapehu, skydiving over Lake Taupo, jet boating through Queenstown’s twisting rivers,
New Zealand may be a very small country, but it is extremely diverse, with each region offering its own unique landscape and culture. The vast differences between the North and South Islands are remarkable. If you ask some of the locals,
YOUR HOME FOR SHOPPING COME AND SPEND SOME TIME WITH US
Botany Town Centre e Cnr Te Irirangi & Ti Rak akau au uD Driririve ves, ve s, East Auckland Ph (09) 272 3888 www.botanytowncentre re.c re .co. o.nz o. nz nz
Bayfair Cnr Maunganui & Girven Roa oads, oads dss, Mount Maunganui Ph (07) 575 9349 www.bayfair.co.nz
The Palms Shopping ng Cen ntr tre re Crnr Marshland & New w Bririgh ghto gh tto on R Rd d, Christchurch Ph (03) 385 3067 www.thepalms.co.nz
Queenstown. © Ben Erskine
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WELCOME TO New Zealand
New Zealand is also known as the adventure capital of the world, and for good reason too – it was here that the first bungy jump took place and, one could say, started the country’s love affair with adrenaline and adventure. they will claim them to be almost two different countries – especially when the national rugby competition is being fought out... At the top of the North Island, you will find the subtropical paradises of Northland, Coromandel and Bay of Plenty with white sandy beaches and tropical fruits. A big city buzz awaits any traveller to Auckland or the nation’s capital Wellington, and places such as Taupo, Ruapehu and Rotorua in the centre of the island are geothermic adventure playgrounds waiting to be explored. Cross the Cook Strait to the South Island and you will encounter the sunshine, beaches, arts and stunning sounds of Nelson and Marlborough. There is also the rugged and wild West Coast where the pioneering spirit still remains strong, and rainforest and glacier walks are a must. The South Island is also the home of the stunning Southern Alps, the
Canterbury Plains and the aqua blue lakes of South Canterbury and Central Otago. At the bottom of the country is the aptly named Southland, which is the home to giant fiords, pounding waterfalls and ancient untouched forests, which will take your breath away. While there may be some drawbacks to being an isolated little island sitting solo in the South Pacific, they are undoubtedly outweighed by the bonuses of being relatively cut off from the rest of the world. One of these is that New Zealand’s isolation has somewhat cultivated and protected a young, environmentally-conscious, creative and multicultural society, while allowing its natural beauty to remain reasonably unspoilt. New Zealand is certainly a land that people simply dream about, and so something tells me this isolation is a wonderful thing. w
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NEW ZEALAND map
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Map courtesy Hema Maps NZ
Fast Facts
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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Airlines: Domestic Air New Zealand: 0800 737 000 air2there: 0800 777 000 Qantas: 0800 808 767 Sounds Air: 0800 505 005 International Air China: +64 9 379 7696 Air Canada: +64 0 069 7470 Air New Zealand: 0800 737 000 Air Pacific: 0800 800 178 American Airlines: +64 9 912 8814 British Airways: +64 9 966 9777 Cathay Pacific: 0800 800 454 Emirates: +64 9 968 2208 Japan Airlines: 0800 525 747 Jetstar: 0800 800 995 KLM Royal Dutch Airlines: +64 9 921 6040 LAN Airlines: +64 9 308 3352 Lufthansa: 0800 945 220 Malaysia Airlines: 0800 777 747 Pacific Blue: 0800 670 000 Qantas: 0800 808 767 Royal Brunei Airlines: +64 9 977 2209 Singapore Airlines: 0800 808 909 Thai Airways: +64 9 377 3886 Virgin Blue: 0800 670 000 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.
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 and 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 offices, i-SITE. Many people prefer to travel by train rather than buses, as trains in New Zealand are modern and comfortable. More information on train travel can be found at train stations, i-SITE 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 Bluebridge and the Interislander ferries both make the journey, which takes around three hours and 20 minutes one way. Both services can be linked with the Tranz Scenic train services on either side of the islands in Wellington or 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 has a subtropical climate, while the south is temperate. The warmest months are December through to February, and the 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 and Christchurch airports, which include this fee in their ticket prices).
WELCOME TO new zealand
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) for cars; in built-up areas the speed limit is 50 kilometres per hour, unless otherwise stated. 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 government run scheme for personal injury by accident. Claims may be lodged with the Accident Compensation 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 2011/2012 6 June – Queen’s Birthday 24 October – Labour Day 25 December – Christmas Day* 26 December – Boxing Day* 1-2 January – New Year* 6 February – Waitangi Day 6 April – Good Friday 9 April – Easter Monday 25 April – ANZAC Day
*Please note that if a public holiday falls on a weekend, the public holiday may fall on the next working 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 (i-SITE) There are more around 90 official visitor information network sites (i-SITE) locations throughout New Zealand; just look for the distinctive green ‘i’ 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. These 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
Phone: 0800 300 688
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
Five
Rima
Six
Ono
Seven
Whitu
Eight
Waru
Nine
Iwa
Ten
Tekau
Monday
Mane
Tuesday
Turei
Wednesday
Wenerei
Thursday
Taite
Friday
Paraire
Saturday
Hatarei/rahoroi
Sunday
Ratapu
River
Awa
Island
Motu
Mountain
Maunga
Sea, lake
Moana
Hill
Puke
Sky, heavens
Rangi
Water
Wai
Land
Whenua
New Zealand
Aotearoa
Welcome To New Zealand
Yourself
Though most often recognised as an Englishspeaking 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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Express o
Essence of New Zealand
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Essence of New Zealand
With a culture and lifestyle based on creativity, enjoying the outdoors and sampling the fruits of the land, there’s one thing that is assured – once you get a taste of the essence of New Zealand, you’ll be hooked!
Traditional maori carving with Mount Taranaki in the background. © P Dmitry
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Essence of New Zealand
2011
Rugby World Cup
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Essence of New Zealand
Proud Kiwi and All Blacks fan Ben Erskine divulges what the 2011 Rugby World Cup means to his nation and to the sport of rugby union itself.
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Š M Itzy
Essence of New Zealand
A global affair From 9 September to 23 October of this year, New Zealand will host the seventh Rugby World Cup, welcoming more than 80,000 international fans and four billion television viewers into its backyard – and what a backyard it is, full of adventure, beautiful scenery, smiling faces and, most importantly, sport mad locals. Occurring once every four years, the Rugby World Cup was first held in New Zealand and Australia in 1987 and placed rugby on the map as a world game. Sixteen teams took part in the competition from all over the globe, and played for the coveted Webb Ellis Cup in front of a television audience of 300 million. That year New Zealand was triumphant in taking out the tournament led by inspirational captain David Kirk. By the time the sixth World Cup rolled around in France in 2007, four billion people from 238 countries tuned in to watch the tournament in which South Africa took home the world title. Today, the Rugby World Cup has now grown to be one of the largest sporting events on the planet, and is only superseded by the FIFA World Cup, Olympics and Tour de France.
ability to bring the whole of New Zealand to a standstill for the duration of any big international rugby battle. These intense, nerve-racking 80-minute matches see the streets clear and every pub and bar throughout the country become packed to bursting point, with the best vantage points secured hours before kick-off. Families huddle together on the couch, glued to their television sets with fingers crossed as these men in black stride out with the country’s hopes, dreams, pride and, some would say, economy firmly riding on their shoulders. More than just a game… To cope with the sudden influx of players and supporters to their shores, World Cup organisers have enlisted 5000 volunteers and all four million Kiwis to become hosts, show these visitors some Kiwi hospitality and help ensure this event runs smoothly. From beautiful Whangarei at the very northern tip of the country, to rustic Invercargill in the deep south, 11 cities and towns will host 48 matches over 44 days. Each team will also be billeted out to various towns around the country while they prepare for battle.
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These intense, nerve-racking 80-minute matches see the streets clear and ever y pub and bar throughout the countr y become packed to bursting point. A proud host For a relatively small nation, New Zealand has an enormous number of sporting accolades in its trophy cabinet, including Olympic medals, world championships and great yachting triumphs. Sport would have to be New Zealand’s most beloved pastime, and has always been a vehicle for Kiwis to head out into the world and take part in monumental adventures. And there would be no bigger vehicle to do this than through rugby union itself – the reason being is that it is well and truly embedded in the county’s identity and has been since the English first brought it here when they settled in New Zealand in 1840. Today, at just about every school and park across the country you will find a rugby ground and set of posts. The local rugby club is always at the heart and soul of each community or small town, and provides a gathering point for young and old, and a place where community spirit, tradition and pride is celebrated each week (no matter what the result on the field). Hosting the World Cup allows this community spirit to extend to the rest of the globe – something of which the Kiwis are very proud, and practically bursting out of their skins to do. The All Blacks, New Zealand’s national rugby union team, is at the centre of this great love of and passion for the sport. This is evident in the team’s
As a celebration of the tournament and to help showcase their country to the world, Kiwis will be running the REAL New Zealand Festival to coincide with the World Cup. Touted as New Zealand’s biggest ever festival, REAL will be a nationwide celebration of all the things Kiwis love about their country, with more than 300 events across the nation. Everything from arts to food, wine, culture, entertainment, music and lifestyle will be on display and will include Style Pasifika in Auckland, a whitebait challenge in the West Coast, the Bluff Oyster Festival and a wine festival where over 50 of New Zealand’s top wineries will be on display – there will certainly be a smorgasbord of activities for locals and travellers alike. w www.realnzfestival.com Style Pasifika, best of Pasifika New Zealand. © Paul Garelja
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Webb Ellis Cup. Š Rugby World Cup Limited
Essence of New Zealand
With 98 teams involved in the qualifying for the RWC, it’s now down to these 20 finalists to battle it out for the World Cup title: South Africa Namibia Canada USA Argentina England France Ireland Italy Scotland Wales Georgia Russia Romania Japan New Zealand Australia Fiji Tonga Samoa
Interview with David Kirk
Rugby World Cup match venues:
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Essence of New Zealand
Whangarei Auckland (pictured above) Hamilton Rotorua New Plymouth Napier Palmerston North Wellington Nelson Dunedin (pictured below) Invercargill
David Kirk is an iconic figure in All Black history, having been the first captain to win a Rugby World Cup (RWC) title. He has since become a Rhodes Scholar, been involved in rugby both as a coach and commentator, and been CEO of Fairfax Holdings Limited. He currently holds positions including chair of the Hoyts Theatre Group and director of one of the largest investment banks in New Zealand. It’s been 24 years since you raised the first World Cup, what do you remember about that special day? I remember everything about the day. The quiet time at the hotel in the morning, travelling to the ground in the bus and especially the game. I remember my half-time team talk and scoring a try in the second half. I remember, of course, receiving the Cup and looking out on a packed Eden Park. How does that achievement stand in the long line of your own business and personal achievements? Captaining the All Blacks to win the RWC is the single most notable thing I have done on the public stage and probably always will be. My family life, including getting married and having three children, counts as more significant achievements to me personally. How has rugby changed since your playing days? The changes in the laws have changed the style of play somewhat. There are now such things as pick and go and a lot more one or two off running. Tackling is more offensive, players are generally fitter and the backs in particular are bigger as a result of a lot more gym work. Two things that haven’t changed, however, are the importance of speed and brains. What does hosting the 2011 Rugby World Cup mean to New Zealand? It means we have an opportunity to win the Cup in our own country in front of our own people. It also means we have an opportunity to showcase New Zealand to the world and for New Zealand businesses to build partnerships and relationships with others to help them grow in the future. If the All Blacks are successful in winning the World Cup this year, what kind of reaction are we likely to see across the country? Joy, celebration and satisfaction.
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Maori Carving - Maori Culture in New Zealand. Š Sam D Cruz
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and culture New Zealand’s rich art and culture history has cultivated an abundance of unique modern day treasures and traditions, as Heather Bloom and Lauren Rosewarne discover.
Auckland For the past 18 years, the Auckland Theatre Company has been committed to supporting developing playwrights and actors, while becoming one of the premier professional theatre companies in the country. Auckland also boasts world-class theatrical centres, such as the Aotea Centre, New Zealand’s largest performing arts venue. 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. Another Auckland performing arts gem is the 700seat SkyCity Theatre, home of the New Zealand International Comedy Festival and the Auckland International Film Festival. www.atc.co.nz www.the-edge.co.nz www.civictheatre.co.nz www.skycityauckland.co.nz
Dunedin A former cinema, The Regent was developed into a performance space in 1980. Now Otago’s premier theatre venue, The Regent’s full season of ballet, musicals and dramatic performances continues to enchant audiences of up to 50,000 each year. A Gothic-styled Wesleyan church is home to the Fortune Theatre, the world’s southernmost theatre company. The Globe began as a 30-seat venue extended from owners Patrick and Rosalie Carey’s home in 1961. It now seats 80 and has always been ahead of its time – it was the first venue in New Zealand to perform Samuel Beckett’s play Waiting for Godot, and has always been dedicated to the classical genre, showcasing plays by Shakespeare, Ibsen and Sophocles. www.fortunetheatre.co.nz www.regenttheatre.co.nz www.globetheatre.org.nz Wellington Built in 1976, the Circa Theatre has performed more than 250 shows in its lifetime and stages up to 20 different shows each year. There are two performance spaces, the original and larger stage encourages dramatic and epic performances. The second space gives an intimate portrait of the dramatic arts and personal displays of human emotion, as audiences are seated extremely close to the action.
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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.
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. Like many other of Christchurch’s landmarks, the theatre was damaged during the 22 February 2011 earthquake. At the time of print, all events scheduled at the venue until 30 April 2011 have been cancelled. See website for updates: www. isaactheatreroyal.co.nz.
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nspiring artists, filmmakers, writers and musicians, New Zealand’s magical landscape is a playground of unmatched beauty and home to some of the world’s biggest movie blockbusters, historic theatres and a unique culture of local and international artists. New Zealand is steeped in the unique culture of the Maori people, who first inhabited the rolling hills and pristine beaches here only around 1000 years ago; and this late discovery means New Zealand is the world’s youngest country. So, like a budding child, New Zealand is bursting with ambition and promise.
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© Auckland Philharmonia Orchestra
The St James Theatre is another of Wellington’s best performance venues. You will be transported back in time as you enter this ornamental auditorium filled with cherubs, gilded lyres, horns, dancing cupids and masks. The Royal New Zealand Ballet is also based here. Another of Wellington’s theatres is the national Opera House, where visitors will find the largest stage south of the equator. www.circa.co.nz www.stjames.co.nz
copies worldwide, even reaching number one on the UK classical charts in 2003. Pure later became the best-selling classical album, so far, of the 21st century. The New Zealand Symphony Orchestra (NZSO) delights the world with its 90-piece orchestra in over 100 concerts performed annually. Featured in the first Lord of the Rings soundtrack (The Fellowship of the Ring), the NZSO regularly presents its world-class symphonic programs in Auckland and Wellington.
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, New Zealanders have made their mark on the international music scene.
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. More recently, Evermore, an indie rock outfit from the North Island town of Feilding, has been making serious waves. Wellington-born Brooke Fraser is another Kiwi artist on her way to international success, with three New Zealand number one albums and successful tours with John Mayer and David Bowie.
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 who, at age 16, released her album Pure and has sold more than two million
Maori musical culture The Maori are the Indigenous Polynesian people of New Zealand and music plays an integral
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Tangata o le Moana, Level 4, Te Papa. Courtesy of Te Papa.
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. 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 that describes their sound as ‘South Pacific fusion’.
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. Due to the 22 February 2011 earthquake in Christchurch, the gallery is closed until further notice. Check website for updates – www. christchurchartgallery.org.nz.
Art Auckland Toi o Tamaki, Auckland’s official art gallery, is the largest gallery in New Zealand and has an extensive collection of Maori, Pacific and European pieces that date as far back as 1376. The gallery, which opened in 1887, now occupies two buildings opposite Albert Park in central Auckland. In the heart of Auckland lies MIC Toi Rerehiko, a contemporary creative media and interdisciplinary art centre offering a continual program of film, video, digital media, music and live performance. www.aucklandartgallery.com www.mic.org.nz
Dunedin 1884 brought more to Dunedin than a gold rush it also marked the arrival of the Dunedin Public Art Gallery, which to this day remains a representative of exceptional European art. Claude Monet, Thomas Gainsborough, William Turner and Claude Lorrain line the walls of the gallery, where you will also find a definitive collection of local artwork and picturesque Japanese prints. Dunedin’s stellar private galleries include the Quadrant, which specialises in contemporary jewellery and sculpture, and the Moray Gallery, which focuses on glass and ceramics. www.dunedin.art.museum www.quadrantgallery.co.nz www.moraygallery.com
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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. There is no feeling that equals being witness to a traditional Maori performance of kapa haka, more commonly known as ‘the haka’. While there are various forms of the haka used for different purposes, such as a war dance, a welcome to distinguished guests or to recognise achievements, it is more commonly recognised as a precursor performance by the national rugby union and league teams before any big match. Rotorua, in the North Island, 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, the Waitangi Treaty Grounds are the location where the Treaty of Waitangi was signed between the Maori and the British Crown in 1840. The 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 also play 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). 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 www.buriedvillage.co.nz www.aucklandmuseum.com www.tepapa.govt.nz
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Wellington Te Papa, New Zealand’s national museum, is located in the heart of Wellington and offers some of the city’s most brilliant views of the harbour. Open every day of the week, it gives visitors plenty of time to meander through the five specific collections encompassing art, history, Pacific, Maori and the natural environment. Only 15 minutes out of Wellington is Pataka, one of the country’s premier contemporary art museums. Equally well-regarded is the City Gallery Wellington, which specialises in contemporary visual arts, architecture and design. www.tepapa.govt.nz www.pataka.org.nz www.citygallery.org.nz
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Coromandel Peninsula. Š Ting Teng
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Ting Teng has the pleasure of uncovering some of the national treasures that make New Zealand unique. From lazing about on tranquil beaches to dining on an earth cooked hangi – it doesn’t get much better than this!
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Sheep in New Zealand pasture. © D Naumov
Merino wool With about 12 sheep for every person in New Zealand, it’s no wonder this country produces some of the best quality wools in the world. Merino, in particular, is one of these highly sought after threads, as it accounts for some of the finest and softest wool of any sheep and has become increasingly popular also due to its versatility in both hot and cold climates. Being a natural fibre, wool is a relatively lightweight, insulating and breathable material, making it ideal for travel through the New Zealand landscape and climate. Icebreaker Check out Icebreaker for an extensive range of stylish base layers, scarves and cosy coats.
www.icebreaker.com
Bonz Bonz also has a wide range of hand-knitted woollen garments.
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Coopers Beach. © C Newland
BEACHES Have you ever imagined standing at the edge of the world? Well, imagine no more. Grab your jandals (flip-flops/thongs), fill up the chilly bin (esky/ice chest) and head to New Zealand’s east coast to see absolutely breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, while bathing in its glistening waters. New Zealanders share an undying love for the beach and every year at the first sight of summer, locals flock to the golden sands to enjoy a day of surf, water sports or just a leisurely day sunbathing with a good book in hand. Check out some of the best beaches around… North Island
Coopers Beach, Bay of Islands Surrounded by the vibrant red flowers of pohutukawa trees, Coopers Beach is a secluded coastal expanse. Enjoy a morning stroll along this perfectly unspoiled gem.
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Hot Water Beach, Coromandel Peninsula
Mother Nature produces some pretty amazing things and Hot Water Beach is one of them. For a natural spa experience, arrive either two hours before or after low tide, dig a large hole, then sit back, relax and wait to be pleasantly surprised…
Ocean Beach, Mount Maunganui
If surfing is what you’re into, then get ready to carve up some sweet ripper waves at Ocean Beach, commonly known as ‘The Mount’. It’s all about the sun, surf and sand here, with summertime activities including surf lifesaving events and sandcastle building competitions.
South Island
Kaiteriteri Beach, Nelson As the gateway to the Abel Tasman National Park, Kaiteriteri Beach is popular with families and campers. It is a relaxed spot from which to enjoy a paddle in the clear waters or sunbathe on the golden sands.
Taylors Mistake, Christchurch
In Maori the name for Taylors Mistake is Te Onepoto, which literally translates to ‘short’ or ‘little’ beach; and this place is just that – a little gem! Join the local holidaymakers and surfers for a fun day in the sun, sand and surf. Kaiteriteri Beach. © T Upungato
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POUNAMU Take away something special with you from the rivers of the South Island. New Zealand greenstone or pounamu is culturally significant to Maori and New Zealanders, signifying mana (character) and status. Pounamu has long been spiritually connected with the people of New Zealand and is held in high regard. Traditionally, pounamu is gifted or used as a symbol of peace, but also has meanings unique to each design. Travellers will often wear the hook pendant to represent safe travels over water. The infinite double twist is said to bond friendships and cultures together eternally.
Maori pounamu. Š Nic Neish
In our stores you’ll find New Zealand’s finest handknits, leather jackets, elegant scarves, gloves and jewellery, which provide unique gifts for friends and family. We also have contemporary art works, which consist of New Zealand’s best artists and artisans across disciplines including glass, ceramics, paintings and sculpture - you’ll find an amazing range of Mashada paintings, Peter
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Viesnik glassware, Peter Shearer pottery and works by many more accomplished local artists. The buyers at BONZ are highly experienced in sourcing the very best New Zealand made products and our staff can help with off-the-peg or custom made clothing, as well as the cultural stories and provenance behind our exquisite artworks.
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Queenstown Mall Tel: +64 3 442 5398 Queenstown International Airport Tel: +64 3 441 4143 Email: info@bonz.com.au Web: www.bonz.com.au
Creating an experience particularly appealing to overseas visitors who seek the best of New Zealand design and production, BONZ in the main Queenstown Mall and in Queenstown International Airport are fabulous shopping destinations.
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HANGI Fancy digging up your dinner? Well, you can in New Zealand – the hangi is a traditional Maori method of cooking where meat and vegetables are cooked entirely underground by heated coals or rocks. For a full Kiwi experience and a traditional kai (meal), head to Rotorua. A large hole is dug and filled with meat and vegetables, leaves are then used to cover the food and keep the heat in, while hot rocks are placed over top – the end result is a delicious and wholesome delicacy. Many hotels in Rotorua offer this unique hangi dining experience. Cooked and prepared for you to enjoy at the hotel restaurant, they are often accompanied by a traditional Maori concert of singing and dancing – a true cultural experience. w
Vegetables from a hangi. © Nic Neish
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Ting Teng’s penchant for home-grown Kiwi fashion is evident in her wrap-up of the industry’s biggest names.
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couple of decades ago the words ‘New Zealand’ and ‘fashion’ would have rarely been mentioned in the same sentence. Not anymore, as the nation has a vibrant and unique fashion scene that is constantly expanding and developing with each year that goes by. The epitome of Kiwi fashion is seen at the annual New Zealand Fashion Week (NZFW), where the spotlight is put on the country’s best fashion, latest collections and upcoming artists. Held in Auckland’s Viaduct Harbour Marine Village, the event is abuzz with buyers, media and fashionistas ogling over this fashion spectacle of local talent brought to life. NZFW gives up-and-coming designers the chance to expose their work to leaders in the industry and has also been an international gateway for many designers since it was established 10 years ago. Four of New Zealand’s biggest fashion labels – Zambesi, Nom*D, Karen Walker and World – are all good examples of Kiwi fashion houses that have received international successes.
Zambesi Zambesi has always been connected with sultry blacks and midnight hues, which are the signature shades that run through its designs. Dayne Johnston, who is the driving force behind the menswear line,
Zambesi Man, says it is something on which the label prides itself, as it is part of the emotion of the brand. The label has also become popular for its ad hoc approach to design, which flows through to its collections. As Johnston explains on Zambesi’s website, “The way we work here is not to any particular rules or anything, it just evolves. We don’t work thematically; we work more intuitively with the fabrics.” In 2005, the Auckland Museum acknowledged the huge influence Zambesi has had on the Kiwi fashion landscape by showcasing a 25-year retrospective exhibition of the label. Nom*D Nom*D’s dark and sombre, androgynous style has become iconic to New Zealand’s fashion scene. Founder and designer, Margi Robertson, believes that, with many fashion fads coming and going, it is important to sustain strong design principles and Nom*D has certainly maintained its credibility and strength over the years due to its non-conformist approach. Based in the frosty city of Dunedin in the South Island, Robertson is inspired by the natural ruggedness of a city known for its gothic architecture and alternative culture. She enjoys experimenting with different textures, and also using wool, as
Ziera serves up both style and comfort. Using only the finest ingredients we craft each style to a unique recipe that ensures a perfect fit.
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undertones, while still remaining feminine and appealing to the modern woman. These distinct characteristics are gracefully combined to create her modest brand, which now encapsulates sunglasses and boutique jewellery, as well as teaming up with Resene to create a collection of wall paints. World Fuelled by energy and passion, Denise L’EstrangeCorbet and Francis Hooper had a vision and turned it into one of the leading fashion houses in New Zealand today: World. The brand is recognisably eccentric and left of centre. The distinguished brand has a ‘take it or leave it’ attitude, which results in bold and quirky pieces. The World empire, which includes World Man and World Beauty, is always 100 percent wearable and matched with impeccable tailoring.
© Trelise Cooper NZFW
More Information
www.zambesi.co.nz, www.nomd.co.nz, www.karenwalker.com, www.worldbrand.co.nz www.stolengirlfriendsclub.com, www.seralilly.com
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many non-traditional woollen garments can be found in her collections. Karen Walker Karen Walker is arguably New Zealand’s most well-known fashion export, receiving much acclaim both nationally and internationally. Walker exploded onto the international fashion scene with her first runway collection, ‘Daddy’s Gone Strange’, shown at the 1998 Hong Kong Fashion Week. Subsequently, the collection was picked up by reputable department store Barneys New York and a pair of her ‘Killer Pants’ were worn by pop star Madonna for a performance at the MTV Music Awards in that same year. For those who don’t already know, Karen Walker has a multifaceted style – her look is cute, hip, yet unpretentious. UK newspaper The Independent described her style as “the kind of look that provides a means of appearing cool, but not trying-too-hard, cute but not saccharine”. Walker’s collections often feature masculine
Stolen Girlfriends Club In recent years, there has been a steady emergence of other, new and equally remarkable labels to New Zealand’s fashion scene. One such brand is Auckland-based Stolen Girlfriends Club. This is an interesting tale of three guys, Dan, Marc and Luke, who fell into the creative industry accidentally, but have since stayed true to their design notions. The Stolen Girlfriends Club is consistently going against the grain of what is ‘accepted’ in the fashion world, and this has inevitably seen it leap to international success – its fresh and cheeky collections are stocked in Australia, Japan and the US, with plans to head to Europe. It has developed a loyal following, with celebrities such as Peaches Geldof and Kate Bosworth taking a liking to its unorthodox approach to design. Sera Lilly Sera Lilly, who has her own eponymous fashion label and flagship store in Ponsonby, Auckland, has come a long way since 2005, when she won the ASB Glam Slam Young Designer Award. Now heading into her fourth consecutive year at NZFW, Sera Lilly has well and truly positioned herself as a leading brand in New Zealand. “The Sera Lilly brand has been successfully built, not only on the quality of design and fabrics, but also on the fact that we are New Zealand made,” says Lilly. Her past and present collections are undisputed examples of just how much talent a young Kiwi can boast. This year, we can look forward to her exciting new winter 2011 collection – ‘The Sisters of San Salvador’, as it plays out the fun and mischievous nature of the Sera Lilly brand with gorgeous flamenco-tiered party dresses showered in myriad lush floral prints. w
jewels The effortless beauty of the New Zealand landscape is rivalled only by the glorious sparkle of the nation’s natural jewels, reveals Heather Bloom.
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rimming with nature’s finest riches, New Zealand offers gemstones from its every corner – from the deep blue of its coastline to the inland riverbeds embedded between steep mountains, there will be a unique piece of New Zealand fit to adorn the most discerning of jewellery wearers. From pounamu, blue pearls and paua shells to esteemed collections of gold, diamonds and other precious gems, New Zealand is a treasure trove of jewels waiting to be discovered.
century. Uses of the precious stone include making weapons, ornaments, tools and jewellery. The deep spiritual meaning associated with pounamu makes it an incredibly special piece to give or receive. The hardness of the stone means it is especially difficult to carve and the laborious efforts of pounamu artists led to the belief that the stone would absorb the spirit of the artist. It is also believed that the power and strength of the wearer or handler of the pounamu is passed through the stone to the next recipient.
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It is also believed that the power and strength of the wearer or handler of the pounamu is passed through the stone to the next recipient Pounamu Also known as greenstone or nephrite jade, pounamu (which is the traditional Maori name) is New Zealand’s most revered natural gem, as it is steeped in history and holds as many stories as it does unique patterns. The colour of pounamu can be either light or dark green. The Maori appreciation of this rare stone comes from inclusions in the stone that conjure up images of the forest, rivers and clouds. The most prized pounamu is the flower jade, which is filled with pale green and ochre clouds. Only found in boulders and in streams of the South Island, pounamu has been part of Maori culture since they first landed here around the 12th
Each carving of pounamu is unique and its differing styles of carvings are said to have different meanings, such as the fishhook indicating strength and determination, the koru or spiral shape representing new beginnings and the twisted pounamu depicting friendship or the unifying of lives. Many jewellers and galleries throughout the country stock pounamu. Blue pearls In 1986, a remarkable piece of jewellery appeared on the market. It had the properties, lustre, smoothness and beauty of a pearl, except for its shimmering blue colour. There is no other
Maori bone carved pendant. Š Margo Harrison
jewel in its class or of its colour anywhere in the world and it is found only in the clear, deep waters of New Zealand. Ranging from blue to violet, green and pink, the blue pearl has the capacity to evoke all the colours of the rainbow. The unique colour comes from the climate of the Pacific Ocean, which produces a specific type of abalone, which in turn produces the blue pearl. Depending on the grade, the pearl can range from anywhere between NZ$500 and $20,000, and is loved by locals and international buyers alike. Eyris Blue Pearls has been setting the standard for the New Zealand blue pearl industry since the very beginning, and has become a treasured piece of New Zealand history. Roger Beattie, managing director of the company, perfected the process of culturing pearls after visiting Australian and US pearling farms, and is now producing perfect mabe (half round pearls) that can be polished into a glorious luscious blue hue. Eyris Blue Pearls supplies New Zealand with 90 percent of its high fashion pearl jewellery, and is creating a stir among international buyers. Currently in negotiation with jewellery institution Tiffany & Co, Eyris Blue Pearls has already received the approval of former chief gem buyer, George Kunz, who says, “The perfect abalone pearl is among the most valuable of gems.”
Roger Beattie
Managing director of Eyris Blue Pearls Why are buyers so drawn to Eyris Blue Pearl? The Eyris Blue Pearl is the bluest of all the pearls and has the greatest range of colour. There are four base colours for the blue pearl, from green/gold/pink to green/blue, blue/green and blue/violet. The blue pearl reflects all the colours of the rainbow. How has the company grown over the last decade? We began experimenting with farming blue pearls in 1995 and officially launched Eyris Blue Pearls in 2000. Most of our sales come from the local New Zealand market, but we have had some success with Italy and the US before the global financial crisis. We are currently in the process of expanding Eyris Blue Pearls to the UK and are planning for intergenerational success along the same vein as Paspaley’s in Australia. What makes the Eyris Blue Pearl so special? If you have a pearl with incredible lustre, colour, brightness and smoothness it can reflect the whole room on its surface. A pearl we sold for NZ$20,000 in 2008 was nicknamed ‘Luscious’ for its fantastic lustre. What is your personal favourite piece? Anything that makes me drool – the richness in colour, smooth surface and lustre of a truly incredible pearl has the ability to make me salivate.
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There is no other jewel in its class or of its colour anywhere in the world and it is found only in the clear, deep waters of New Zealand. Paua The abalone isn’t the only living organism harvested for its natural treasures; the paua, native to the shallow coastal waters along New Zealand’s rocky shorelines, is also cultivated for its beauty. The paua itself is part of the sea snail family and is recognised worldwide for its rich mythology and medicinal properties. The paua shell bears similarities to the mother of pearl shell; however, it has brilliant iridescent beauty and is the most colourful of any abalone shells farmed. The colour and patterns vary. Green, pink, blue and on rare occasions gold and crimson tones similar to that of the Australian opal have all been produced. When given as a gift, the paua shell represents peace, prosperity, good luck and health. Also believed to have medicinal qualities, the paua has been used by the Maori tribes for centuries in encouraging fertility, protection and in the treatment of hearing disorders, calcium deficiencies and dysfunction of the spinal canal and nervous system. For a beautiful jewel that sparkles no matter which
Sapphire rings in white gold. © Sutcliffe Jewellery
Available at:
125 Parnell Rd, Parnell. TEL 09 307 0339
18ct white and rose gold pendant set with diamonds © Partridge Jewellers
way you look at it, it’s hard to go past the paua, which adorns all types of jewellery from necklaces and earrings to brooches and bracelets. Gold and diamonds New Zealand has a long history of gold production, and while the heyday of the gold mining trade in the country has subsided, you are still able to find locally crafted gold jewellery, much of it with diamonds and other precious gems. While New Zealand does not itself produce any diamonds, there is still a highly regarded focus on the gems and many local jewellers produce incredible pieces of diamond jewellery. One such jeweller is Michael Hill, who has built an empire on jewels and expanded his business across the globe. Jewellery company, 1791 also prides itself on its master craftsmanship in the trade and one of its internationally renowned designers, Alice Herald, has worked with Cartier and showcased her collections in Russian and Australian Vogue, as well participating in London Fashion Week. There is no corner of New Zealand untouched by nature’s beauty, be it the sun, the sea, the sky or in the millions of precious jewels that lie within the country’s stunning lands. New Zealand will be your new best friend when it comes to finding extraordinarily beautiful jewellery. w
$620 983XLRLDB
Danish Design Swiss Precision Affordable Luxury
is priceless Owning a classic timepiece is akin to owning a piece of history in the making – so why not take one home as a holiday memory, suggests Matthew McGuigan.
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hat does your timepiece say about you? Is it a family heirloom, passed from your parent and their parent before them? Or is it a token purchased as a memory of a place travelled? Whether your interest in a watch is personal or imbued with thoughts of a loved one, a watch can be an ultimate luxury item. Celebrities love luxury watches. Think of Nicole Kidman with her Omega Ladymatic, George Clooney and his Seamaster or Angelina Jolie’s Tank Louis Cartier – they know a fine timepiece is an accessory that can also be a rare collectable. There is something about the subtlety of the inner workings of a finely made timepiece – mechanisms built on such a small scale that human eyes struggle to see them, much less understand their function – that adds to their value. So, if you wish to encourage the horologist in you, consider whether you favour a classically-styled gold or silver watch, with simple design and traditional façade, or something far more extravagant, remebering that part of the prestige of owning a luxury timepiece is that it is a very personal item – one that will say something about its owner. Its intricate details are presented to the wearer’s liking and say much about their personality. There are countless variations available for someone looking for their ideal piece, and though trends of what is popular for men and women can vary, time has seen increasing similarities. “Men are very focused these days on wanting a mechanical and automatic watch,” says Julian Farren-Price, CEO and son of the founder of Australian luxury watch retailer J. Farren-Price, “as they see the craftsmanship and longevity in them – a bit like a car. The other trend is for watches to be
bigger and this is to do with them becoming more of a statement, more of a visible thing and people wanting individual pieces.” Women tend not to be quite as interested in the automatic side of watches, but for them too FarrenPrice has seen the trend of larger pieces that are a little bit more complicated and with the number of options growing. “There is also a more recent trend in the past couple of years toward rose gold [in women’s watches],” he says. “It has become a very popular metal – it’s a warm metal that looks nice against the skin and is a little bit different, something we haven’t seen around for a while.” But whether or not you choose to purchase a watch that incorporates a new design trend or something a little more classic, one thing remains the same and that is, a watch does more than tell the time. “Today we have all sorts of things, such as mobile phones and computers, that tell us the time. It’s more about the collectability and the rarity of these pieces. Owning a luxury timepiece has little to do with telling the time. It’s like buying an artwork – buying something rare, collectable, has longevity and is part of starting your own tradition and handing it down through the family. Basically making your own mark in time,” says Farren-Price. Our human interest in time, and keeping track of it, may secure the watch’s place in the future, meaning that owning a luxury piece will retain its full allure. Lucky owners then have the satisfaction of knowing their piece will keep its place in history, whether it be a classic incarnation or contemporary showstopper. w
Classics
From practicality to an everlasting sense of style
Maurice Lacroix Fiaba Collection. Courtesy Griffiths McKay & Buckleigh Ltd
Certina DS Prime Diamonds. Courtesy Griffiths McKay & Buckleigh Ltd
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WOMen’s Certina DS Prime Diamonds With purity of form and simple harmonious contours, the design and aesthetic composition of this Certina watch is a true sport-classical style of the greatest refinement, and strikes a deeply attractive, fervent note. Its generous case is visually accented by long rounded horns, while its domed and serrated crown strikes a luminously feminine note, accented by a window adorned by 56 diamonds, with spaces at three, six, nine and 12 o’clock. Maurice Lacroix Fiaba Collection The Fiaba watch collection for women represents softness and fluidity and the rectangular shaped face of this particular piece is soft and distinguished, as well as being classical, yet quite contemporary. Its gently curved profile means it sits on the wrist like a second skin and the corners of the dial are emphasised by slim baton indexes, while two roman numerals sit imposingly at 12 and six o’clock. Tissot My-T Tonneau Diamonds This piece by Tissot features an elegant ‘tonneau’ case, which is set in motion by two T-shaped elements attaching it securely, yet playfully to the bracelet, in a tribute to the brand’s intrinsic creativity. Extra sparkle is added to the wearer’s look by the inclusion of 146 genuine diamonds, which frame the dial and fill the T-shaped attachments, ensuring every slight wrist movement produces its own delicate light show of reflections.
Tissot My-T Tonneau Diamonds. Courtesy Griffiths McKay & Buckleigh Ltd
FOLLOW YOUR CONVICTIONS ”FREE ACCESS TO ALL HUMAN KNOWLEDGE. SOME CALLED IT IMPOSSIBLE, I CALLED IT WIKIPEDIA.” Jimmy Wales, Founder of Wikipedia
In 2003, Jimmy Wales stayed true to his beliefs by turning Wikipedia into a non-profit foundation. At Maurice Lacroix, we create our unique movements and award-winning designs by hand – because, like Jimmy, we too follow our convictions.
Les Classiques Phases de Lune
Ask about Duty Free purchasing at your nearest Maurice Lacroix dealer: Fishers On Cameron, Whangarei, 09 438 3591 Mansors Jewellers, Queen Street, Auckland, 09 303 2839 Watches of Switzerland, Queen Street, Auckland, 09 303 2202 Watches on Broadway, Newmarket, Auckland, 09 520 5649 Zlato Jewellers, Parnell, Auckland, 09 307 0339 Don Stewart Ltd, Tauranga, 07 578 5517 Pacific Jewellers Lambton Quay, Wellington, 04 473 5330. For more information visit www.mauricelacroix.com or call 0508 566 300.
Men’s SEIKO Premier Big Calendar Chronograph This Seiko Premier Big Calendar Chronograph watch has stopwatch capabilities which measure 60 minutes in 1/5th of a second increments. It also has a 24-hour hand and calendar. Jaeger-LeCoultre Master Control Memovox In 1956 the Jaeger-LeCoultre Calibre 815 became part of modern watchmaking history with the advent of the first automatic alarm watch. The Master Control Memovox is a piece inspired by the heritage of this milestone. The case is made from 18ct pink gold and the self-winding automatic movement has a power reserve of 45 hours. Girard-Perregaux In the 1960s Girard-Perregaux was one of the very few watchmaking manufacturers to have its own research and development team. The GirardPerregaux 1966 collection pays tribute to this era, incorporating the fruits of the manufacturer’s constant commitment to innovation, as seen in the use of automatic winding movements in a particularly elegant, extra-thin case.
Jaeger-LeCoultre Master Control Memovox. Courtesy Partridge Jewellers SEIKO Premier Big Calendar Chronograph. © SEIKO
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Girard-Perregaux 1966 collection. Courtesy Partridge Jewellers
Showstoppers Sparkle and shine whenever you feel like a bit of drama
WOMen’s Longines PrimaLuna Thousand and One Nights The PrimaLuna features a stainless steel and 18k rose gold case and bracelet, set with 358 Top Wesselton diamonds, featuring a rose gold crown and hands. Longines Sport Conquest The Conquest ladies’ watch features a stainless steel case set with 124 Top Wesselton diamonds and sapphire crystal glass, which has a mother of pearl dial featuring 11 diamond indices and silvered hands. Water resistant to 300 metres, the Conquest features the date at three o’clock, as well as a stainless steel bracelet with a triple safety clasp.
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Captive de Cartier The women’s Captive de Cartier watch is rhodium-plated white gold set with diamonds, featuring a semi-pavéd dial-case with 18ct rhodium-plated white gold. The Bezel is set with round diamonds and the dial is 18ct rhodium-plated white gold partially set with round diamonds. The total number of diamonds equals a staggering 4.1ct.
Longines Sport Conquest. © Longines
Captive de Cartier. © Cartier
Longines PrimaLuna Thousand and One Nights. © Longines
Rolex Day-Date II. Courtesy Partridge Jewellers Raymond Weil Parsifal Gents Chrono © Avstev Group
SEIKO Velatura Yachting Timer © SEIKO
SEIKO Velatura Yachting Timer This show-stopping sporting watch is as practical as it is impressive. There are inbuilt presets that countdown with an automatic start, a stopwatch, which measures 12 hours in 1/5th of a second increments, two alarms and dual time.
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Raymond Weil Parsifal Gents Chrono Featuring solid 18ct pink gold and stainless steel case, the Raymond Weil Parsifal Gents Chrono has a 41.4mm case diameter, alligator leather strap, automatic chronograph movement and magnified date window.
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Men’s Rolex Launched in 2008, The Day-Date II enhances the legacy of the original Day-Date, which was the first watch to display the date, as well as the day in its entirety. Now in a larger, more commanding 41mm size, the Day-Date II is powered by the Rolex selfwinding movement and has automatic day display available in several languages. The presidential bracelet is one of the most recognised designs and only available in precious materials.
Taste
NEW ZEALAND
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Heather Bloom wines and dines her way through the country’s premier produce regions, revealing the ingredients that have put New Zealand’s food and wine firmly on the international map.
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et among the magnificent mountains and clearest skies south of the equator, New Zealand holds a bounty of gourmet delicacies and some of the world’s finest wines within its luscious orchards and vineyards. New Zealand is a food and wine lovers’ paradise and throughout this incredible country one has the opportunity to sample, harvest and cook with local ingredients in a food experience that is sure to satisfy the most cultured food connoisseur. From the freshest seafood straight from the Pacific Ocean to the light crisp sauvignon blancs from the South Island, every corner of this country is brimming with world-renowned food and wine to satiate your every craving.
North Island Northland European settlers chose the region of Northland as the first site to plant grapes, olives and fruit trees and the area has remained a consistent force in the food and wine world ever since. The warm subtropical climate is perfect for producing both well-rounded chardonnays and warm cabernet merlot blends. This sunny North Island region situated on the north-west tip of New Zealand also produces a colourful array of tropical fruits and vegetables that can be sourced from one of the many local farmers’ markets. One of the newer and increasingly popular markets in the region is located in Paparoa, and it is here you will find local produce including fresh oysters, smoked mussels, olive oils, freshly roasted coffee and honey.
Hawke’s Bay With more than 140 vineyards and 70 wineries, Hawke’s Bay is quite literally wine country. The many cellar doors located throughout this region give visitors the opportunity to match sensational wines with equally delightful local delicacies. The region’s reputation as a leader in food and wine production comes from its warm climate, which allows for various produce to be in season all year round. Spring is best for strawberries, while summer is the time for mouthwateringly juicy stone fruit. Autumn is the season for ripe pears and avocados and winter provides the perfect climate for citrus fruits and vegetables. The many local farmers’ markets allow you the opportunity to discuss the finer details of the local produce directly with the growers, and each year the region hosts an array of concerts, wine festivals and sporting events. Waiheke Island Situated a pleasant 35-minute ferry ride from Auckland in the Hauraki Gulf is New Zealand’s ‘Island of Wine’ itself, Waiheke Island. And with around 30 vineyards and wineries nestled among its 90 square kilometres of farmland, forest, beaches and olive groves, it’s easy to understand why. The hot and dry summers here not only make for great beach weather at the island’s many coves and bays, but also work well with the stony soil to produce award-winning cabernet sauvignons, merlots, malbecs and, more recently, chardonnays and sauvignon blancs. Aside from enjoying the picturesque wineries, there are plenty of other things to do. You could hire a bike or go for a walk around the island,
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© Schoc Chocolates
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Regardless of what your tastebuds desire, New Zealand has a restaurant, café, farm or ocean to meet your ever y whim and, of course, a wine to complement each meal.
charter a yacht, a scenic flight or take a tour through an olive grove – Rangihoua Estate, for example, has more than 1000 trees and offers tastings throughout the year. Regular jazz concerts, festivals and harvest festivities are also a feature of the island, not to mention the Ostend Market every Saturday morning, which is a veritable buffet of fresh fruit and veg, bread, cheese, olives and arts and crafts. Wellington/Wairarapa The Wellington/Wairarapa wine region is the heart of the New Zealand wine trail and is home to some of the finest pinot noir in the world. Martinborough is one of the sub-regions in the area and a unique slice of wine-loving heaven where visitors can choose to walk, cycle or take a horse and carriage tour of the vineyards. On your journey through the beautiful Martinborough fields you will have the chance to stop at the many cellar doors and sample wines straight from the source. What’s more, each November Martinborough hosts one of New Zealand’s premier wine, food and music festivals, Toast, attracting thousands of
visitors to the region to taste the newly harvested vintage before it is made available to the public. Further north is the small town of Greytown, where you can soak up quaint country life in the surrounds of perfectly preserved Victorian era architecture, while immersing yourself in chocolate. Schoc Chocolates is an authentic boutique chocolaterie, where the makers are constantly experimenting with the menu, which features intriguing concoctions such as lime and chilli or apricot and rosemary. Owners Murray and Roger are also happy to draw on their experiences in natural therapy, counselling and therapeutics to help you choose the perfect chocolate through their chocology techniques (see breakout box on page 78 for more information). South Island Marlborough Marlborough is a place where mountains meet the sky and vineyards roll into the horizon. Situated at the top of the South Island, it is the country’s sunniest spot and also its biggest wine producing region (accounting for almost half of New Zealand’s
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The Wellington/Wairarapa wine region is the heart of the New Zealand wine trail and is home to some of the finest pinot noir in the world.
Marlborough © Cloudy Bay
Waiheke Island Wineries CASITA MIRO 3 Brown Road, Onetangi Waiheke Island Tel: +64 9 372 7854 www.mirovineyard.co.nz Casita Miro is a tribute to great architecture, and the fusion of South Pacific and Spanish cuisine - some have even said that it has the best Spanish-style tapas restaurant in New Zealand. It was also a finalist in two sections of the 2010 Cuisine Restaurant of the Year Awards. The ambience here is incredible, and the service is prompt, with hostess Cat Vosper a master of charm and hospitality. The delicious wines are made from grapes grown in the local vineyard and the kitchen is serviced by its own cottage garden. Miro Vineyard also makes New Zealand’s unique award winning succulent aperitif called Madame-Rouge (www.madame-rouge.co.nz) - once tasted, you will want more. The restaurant itself backs on to an olive grove on one side and has fantastic views of the sea on the other. Catch a Fullers’ ferry to Waiheke and visit Casita Miro, near the beach at Onetangi. It’s best to phone first, however, as we are understandably popular. STONYRIDGE VINEYARD 80 Onetangi Road, Onetangi Valley, Tel: 09 372 8822 www.stonyridge.com Stonyridge Vineyard specialises in producing ultra-premium organic red wines such as Fallen Angel and Larose wines, which include cabernet sauvignon, cabernet franc, merlot, and petit verdot. Open seven days for lunch and tastings. Wine tours 11.30am weekends or by appointment.
KENNEDY POINT VINEYARD 44 Donald Bruce Road, Waiheke Island Tel: +64 9 372 5600 www.kennedypointvineyard.com Kennedy Point Vineyard is Waiheke’s first organic vineyard, specializing in Bordeaux Varietals and award-winning Syrah. We offer wine, olive oil and manuka honey tasting. Open daily 11-3pm, all year. Self-contained accommodation available at the Vineyard Guesthouse.
PODERI CRISCI 205 Awaawaroa Road, Awaawaroa Bay, Waiheke Island Tel: +64 9 372 2148 Web: www.podericrisci.co.nz Poderi Crisci is a family owned vineyard and restaurant on picturesque Waiheke Island. The vineyard, located on a north facing rocky strip, is a unique place to grow truly unique wines. The restaurant brings traditional Italian food to Waiheke.
PASSAGE ROCK WINES 438 Orapiu Road Waiheke Island Tel: +64 9 372 7257 Web: www.passagerockwines.co.nz Passage Rock wines is home to Waiheke Island’s most awarded wine, Reserve Syrah. Our family owned restaurant and cellar door are open from September to Easter each year - join us for a relaxed and informative wine tasting or delicious lunch.
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produce). The abundance of sunshine here, coupled with a mild climate help to cultivate worldclass pinot noir and some of the world’s clearest sauvignon blanc, of which the region produces around 85 percent of the country’s drop. As well as having some of New Zealand’s most prized vineyards, Marlborough is also home to some of the nation’s finest restaurants and cafés, which proudly serve up a bounty of seafood including fresh crayfish, salmon and the world famous greenshell mussels (for which the region is also renowned). If you want to take your culinary journey just that little bit further, the Herzog Winery gives you the opportunity to work with some of New Zealand’s top chefs in one-day cooking courses that will see you use local ingredients while learning the secrets of incredible cooking. Canterbury/Waipara This may be one of the country’s newest wine regions, but what it lacks in age, it makes up for in produce. The cooler, drier climate, range of soils and micro-climates, coupled with a long growing season accommodates a variety of wines including riesling, chardonnay and pinot noir. There are plenty of restaurants and eateries here that can perfectly combine your newly found favourite local drop with local specialities including lamb, beef and venison off the land, and trout and salmon straight from Canterbury’s lakes and rivers. With such a bevy of gourmet goodies on offer, there is no wonder that there is a range of food and wine tours available. Try South Canterbury Tours, which can devise a tour to suit your specific tastes and has a range of options on offer, such as visiting a working farm, jam factory or organic yoghurt dairy, as well as a salmon farm, orchards and, of course, wineries. Regardless of what your tastebuds desire, New Zealand has a restaurant, café, farm or ocean to meet your every whim and, of course, a wine to complement each meal. A genuine food and wine lovers’ paradise, the only problem may be deciding where to start your gastronomical adventure, and how to stop! w
Murray Langham Co-founder and co-creator Schoc Chocolates Schoc Chocolates fits nicely into New Zealand’s ever emerging focus on producing quality home-grown innovative and gourmet food. What is that makes your product so popular? My understanding is that we are real – by that I mean using real, fresh ingredients and the best chocolate we can source. Everything we do is by hand; this makes our production small, but we get great results by using these labour intensive methods. Where possible you source your ingredients locally. Why is this? I think it is that we are miles from anywhere, so we must grow our own ingredients and we accept only the high standard of produce that we would have in our homes. We don’t settle for second best. Tell us a little about ‘chocology’. Chocology is the art of knowing yourself through the flavours that you choose from a box of chocolates. When we choose a centre or a filling that we like – what is it that attracts us to it? Is it the smell, the texture on our tongue and teeth, the colour or the taste? These centres link into our own subconscious mind or the inner part of us that guides our emotions, our moods and our self-esteem. By understanding the meanings of these centres, we can begin to see what is guiding us through the complexities of life.
More information
www.northlandnz.com www.hawkesbaynz.com http://waiheke.aucklandnz.com www.exploremarlborough.co.nz www.herzog.co.nz www.waiparawine.co.nz www.southcanterburytours.co.nz
Murray and Roger © Schoc Chocolates
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UÊ BEER UÊ SPIRITS UÊ CIDER UÊ FOOD GLENGARRY AUCKLAND
What started as a winemaking venture in Glengarry Road, Auckland has now developed into New Zealand’s largest family-owned wine and food retailer, with 16 Glengarry wine stores throughout the country. We also have five Dida’s sites, which include Food Stores and Wine & Tapas Lounges. Started by Joseph Jakicevich in 1940 Glengarry was New Zealand’s first retailer to hold a liquor licence, importing wine from around the world when we were all still drinking locally made ‘hock’. Yip, we like to think we changed the way we all drink.
VICTORIA PARK Cnr Sale & Wellesley St HERNE BAY 54 Jer vois Rd PONSONBY 139 Ponsonby Rd PARNELL 164 Parnell Rd NEWMARKET 22 Morrow St MT EDEN 250 Dominion Rd CIT Y Cnr Wellesley St & Mayoral Dr
EXPERIENCE GLENGARRY our team, knowledge & passion DELIVERY new zealand & overseas QUALIT Y PRODUCTS extensive range, hand selected by us GIFT PACKS for all occasions FUNCTIONS we cater for it all GLASSWARE LOAN/HIRE wine, beer, spirits, riedel FUN AND EDUCATION we’re known for it; it’s fun!
TAK APUNA Cnr Hurstmere Rd & Killarney DEVONPORT Cnr Clarence St & Wynyard St REMUERA 400 Remuera Road WESTMERE 164 Garnet Road KINGSLAND 467 New North Road ELLIOTT Cnr Elliott and Victoria Street GLENGARRY WELLINGTON THORNDON QUAY 232 Thorndon Quay KELBURN 85 Upland Rd COURTENAY PLACE Shop 2/27 Courtenay Place DIDA’S AUCKLAND HERNE BAY FOOD STORE 54 Jer vois Rd TAK APUNA FOOD STORE 178 Hurstmere Rd VICTORIA PARK FOOD STORE & TAPAS BAR Cnr Sale & Wellesley St HERNE BAY WINE & TAPAS 54 Jer vois Rd DEVONPORT WINE & TAPAS 56 Victoria Road
north Island
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North Island
The North Island just about has it all – from idyllic islands and pristine beaches to temperate rainforests and majestic mountain ranges, wild rivers and smouldering volcanic wonderlands, not to mention the cosmopolitan lifestyle of the nation’s capital Wellington and biggest city Auckland. We advise that you use your time wisely here, as there is simply too much to see.
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Cape Reinga Lighthouse. Š P Dmitry
Event calendar Visa Wellington on a Plate 5 to 21 August 2011 A celebration of all things food and wine, with a series of culinary events and shows around Wellington. Make sure you attend a DINE Wellington event, where more than 80 of the region’s best restaurants showcase their finest fare in set menus. The ‘battle of the burger’ challenge is also a highlight. Location: Various venues throughout Wellington Tel: +64 4 916 1205 www.wellingtononaplate.com © Wellington on a Plate
Auckland Cup Week 4 to 11 March 2012 Auckland Cup Week is New Zealand’s biggest sporting event, boasting the ultimate in thoroughbred racing, fashion and glamour. Be trackside at Ellerslie and enjoy a showcase of the nation’s best horses, jockeys and trainers competing for the greatest prizes in the country. Location: Ellerslie Racecourse, Auckland Tel: + 64 9 524 4069 www.aucklandcupweek.co.nz
North Island
Monteith’s CheeseFest 29 February 2012 New Zealand’s skilful cheese makers join forces to tempt your tastebuds with a selection of artisan produce. CheeseFest is the perfect setting to savour the country’s top cheddars, pungent blues and creamiest bries, while enjoying a complimentary glass of the region’s finest wine. Location: The Langham Hotel, Auckland Tel: +64 9 630 8776 www.cheesefest.co.nz © Graham Prentice
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Matariki Festival 4 June to 4 July 2011 Matariki is the Maori name for the group of stars also known as the Pleiades star cluster – they are symbols of the traditional Maori New Year. The Matariki Festival is an annual celebration that hosts concerts, tree plantings, art exhibitions, workshops and a range of cultural performances. Location: Various locations throughout Auckland Tel: +64 9 354 2132 www.matarikifestival.org.nz
North Island 2011/2012 Brancott Estate World of WearableArt Awards Show 25 August to 10 September 2011 Welcome to a world where unique New Zealand art, fashion, performance, colour and music collide. It has been described as ‘Mardi Gras meets haute couture at a Peter Gabriel concert directed by Salvador Dali’ and is not to be missed. Location: TSB Bank Arena, Queens Wharf, Wellington Tel: +64 3 547 0863 www.worldofwearableart.com
The Coromandel Pohutukawa Festival 18 November to 4 December 2011 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 familyfriendly activities. Location: The Coromandel, 130 kilometres from Auckland Tel: +64 7 868 0471 www.pohutukawafestival.co.nz
New Zealand Fashion Week 28 August to 4 September 2011 New Zealand’s premier fashion event provides the perfect platform from which to showcase the finest creations from an exclusive collection of established and emerging Kiwi designers including Karen Walker and Zambesi. Location: Viaduct Harbour Marine Village, Auckland Tel: +64 9 377 8033 www.nzfashionweek.com
New Zealand International Comedy Festival Auckland 29 April to 22 May, Wellington 1 to 21 May 2011 Big name international acts such as Arj Barker, Danny Bhoy, Wil Anderson and Glenn Wool will be here, as well as home-grown comics such as 7 Day’s Dai Henwood and Ben Hurley. Location: Various locations throughout the North Island Tel: +64 9 309 9241 www.comedyfestival.co.nz
© Monteith’s CheeseFest
© Denis Vrublevski
Arj Barker. © NZ International Comedy Festival
Toast Martinborough 20 November 2011 Food and wine lovers rejoice, and come and celebrate the new vintage and culinary delicacies from Wellington and Wairarapa’s best restaurants in Martinborough. Chill out on the grass and listen to some of New Zealand’s best live entertainment acts or take a stroll through the boutique vineyards of the area – either way, you’ll have a ball. Location: Martinborough Tel: +64 6 306 9183 www.toastmartinborough.co.nz
North Island
New Zealand International Film Festival Auckland 14 to 31 July, Wellington 28 July to 14 August 2011 This national event showcases a broad range of films each year, but most of the hype is situated in Auckland and Wellington, where more than 150 different films are played. Location: Various locations throughout the North Island Tel: + 64 4 385 0162 www.nzff.co.nz
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Pohutukawa Festival. © sansimages.com
Must do’s Waitangi Treaty Grounds 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 Sail NZ With more boats per capita than anywhere else on Earth, Auckland is the place where it’s a must to get intimate with the ocean at some point. Sail NZ runs various tours around the area, one including the unique opportunity to experience sailing an America’s Cup yacht. They also have tours of the beautiful Bay of Islands, where you can swim with the dolphins, take an historical cruise around the area or even go on your very own ocean adventure. Address: Booking Kiosk, Viaduct Harbour, Auckland Tel: +64 9 359 5987 www.explorenz.co.nz Sky Tower As 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 possibly 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
Cape REINGA and Ninety Mile Beach While the lighthouse at Cape Reinga may just be shy of New Zealand’s northern most tip, it is still worth the visit just to experience the spot where the Tasman Sea and Pacific Ocean collide (often in a fury that spills waves up to 10 metres into the air). The Nearby Ninety Mile Beach provides a long stretch of sand and dunes perfect for a leisurely stroll or some serious sand boarding! Sand Safaris organise tours of both Cape Reigna and Ninety Mile Beach. Address: 221 Commerce Street, Kaitaia, Northland Tel: +64 9 408 1778 www.sandsafaris.co.nz 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 White Island volcano 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. White Island Tours have more information. Address: 15 The Strand East, Whakatane Tel: +64 7 308 9588 www.whiteisland.co.nz
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White Island. © D Irkr
Dolphin viewing. © Explore NZ
Zealandia 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: 31 Waiapu Road, Karori, Wellington Tel: +64 4 920 9200 www.visitzealandia.com Auckland Museum 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 Sky City This premier entertainment destination right in the heart of Auckland’s CBD has enough glitz and glamour to surpass even the best-travelled jetsetters’ expectations. Faced with a world-class casino boasting more than 100 gaming tables, five-star hotels, and 18 restaurants and bars, you should get ready to be pampered and indulged. Address: Corner Victoria and Federal Streets, Auckland Tel: +64 9 363 6000 www.skycityauckland.co.nz
Whanganui National Park. © F Kienas
Reading Cinemas Gold Lounge 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
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 awe-inspiring environment and take part in the action and excitement of caving adventures. Float down an underground river, immerse yourself into the belly of the cave or partake in a 100-metre abseil into a cavern. Address: Waitomo Caves Road, Waitomo Tel: +64 7 878 7788 www.waitomo.co.nz Taupo Tandem Skydiving Taupo Tandem Skydiving will give you the ultimate adrenaline 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 Auckland Bridge Climb and Bungy Feel the sensation of ‘walking on water’ with AJ Hackett’s Auckland Harbour Bridge bungy jump. One of the world’s first bridge bungy jump sites 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 9 360 7748 www.bungy.co.nz
Whanganui National Park 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 densest 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 Tel: + 64 7 895 5995 www.whanganuinationalpark.com Hukafalls Jet 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 The Lord of The Rings Tour Journey to Middle Earth and experience the land of hobbits, elves and orcs, 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. w Address: Forest Lodge, Owhango, Mount Ruapehu Tel: +64 7 895 4773 www.forest-lodge.co.nz
North ISLAND
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
© Taupo Tandem Skydiving
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Waiheke Island A 35-minute ferry ride from downtown Auckland you’ll find 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: i-Site Visitor Information 118E Seaview Road, Oneroa Tel: +64 9 372 1234 http://waiheke.aucklandnz.com
Welcome to
Auckland
Nyssa Veraphunt delightedly discovers that New Zealand’s largest city certainly doesn’t disappoint when it comes to offering world-class attractions, entertainment and, most importantly, enjoyment…
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hile it is filled with all the mod cons and hustle and bustle of any big metropolis, Auckland is more than just a city – it is an adventure playground, cosmopolitan meeting point and natural wonder all in one! Just 30 minutes’ drive from the downtown area, you can be sitting on golden-sanded beaches by the Pacific Ocean or having lunch at an island vineyard. Then you can picnic on a volcano or explore a rainforest, if you feel the urge. 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. 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, including the much anticipated 2011 Rugby World Cup, which will captivate an estimated
audience of over four billion people worldwide. In addition to sporting accolades, Auckland is characterised by dozens of dormant volcanic mounds, the most famous of which is the 183-metre-high One Tree Hill or Maungakiekie (mountain of the kiekie, a woody vine), 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 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
In this ‘City of Sails’, pastimes include boating, fishing, snorkelling, kite surfing, kayaking, and whale and dolphin watching.
Auckland CBD. © Pichugin Dmitry
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you fall at 85 kilometres per hour for 11 seconds (while attached to a wire of course!), 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 14th 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. 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 alone. Start with yum cha in the morning. Then walk off the dumplings in the Waitakere Ranges 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 a place like Auckland, where the bevy of diverse and continually changing landscapes and attractions make it undoubtedly more than just a city, you could easily recommend spending more than just a lifetime here to take full advantage of what it has on offer. w
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Locations & Reservations AUCKLAND Ph (09) 377 0773 WELLINGTON Ph (04) 387 4600 SOUTH ISLAND Ph 0800 789 789 (Christchurch, Queenstown, Dunedin) AUCKLAND • WELLINGTON • CHRISTCHURCH • QUEENSTOWN • DUNEDIN www.corporatecabs.co.nz
1,*+7 5$&(6 Dress up and witness harness racing at its finest almost every Friday night at Alexandra Park. You’ll enjoy our sumptuous buffet and beverage packages whilst getting caught up in the electric atmosphere of the races.
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MAORI CULTURAL PERFORMANCE AND GUIDED TOUR
NAU MAI HAERE MAI WELCOME Auckland Museum is one of the finest museums in the Southern Hemisphere, renowned for its unique collection of Maori and Pacific treasures. It is the only place in Auckland where you can experience the warmth of a Maori cultural performance and take a guided tour of Maori treasures every day. For performance times and bookings see our website. Charge apply.
Western Springs Infoline: 09 306 7067 www.aucklandmuseum.com
Auckland
0800 MOTATNZ (0800 668 286)
Howick beach
Howick Village Market
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NORTH ISLAND
HOWICK VILLAGE 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 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 8.30am to 12.30pm.
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G.B.S. Bar & Restaurant
High Tide
G.B.S. BAR & RESTAURANT Corner Picton Street and Uxbridge Road, Howick Tel: +64 9 534 3199
HIGH TIDE 139 Picton Street Howick Tel: +64 9 534 9897
Situated in the landmark Prospect Howick, the G.B.S. Bar & Restaurant is a gastro pub which features deep-seated couches, mood music, a central bar and a sun-drenched leafy courtyard outside. The cuisine is modern New Zealand and menu favourites include the slow roasted pork belly with potato croquette, watercress, chorizo sausage and apple sauce, as well as the confit chicken leg with pear, blue cheese and roquette salad. Enjoy live music and jazz Friday nights and Sunday afternoons. Licensed. Opening hours: Open 7 days. Mon - Fri 11.00am until late; Sat - Sun 10.00am until late
Take home a little piece of Kiwiana Great gifts, distinctly New Zealand for family and friends or just something special to remember your visit by. High Tide is an exquisite gift shop with a New Zealand inspired theme, featuring an exceptional range of products from local designers and artists. With our knowledgeable, friendly staff you can be assured of a memorable shopping experience. Come and see us at 139 Picton Street, Howick. Opening hours: Mon - Fri 9.30am to 5.00pm Sat 9.30am to 3.00pm
Merrell
604C Port Road Whangamata Tel: +64 7 865 8405 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: Mon - Fri 9.00am to 5.30pm Sat 9.00am to 5.00pm
THE ANTIQUE SHOP Apothecary Café 27 to 31 Picton Street, Howick Tel: +64 9 533 9427 Email: theantiqueshopnz@gmail.com 25 minutes drive from CBD The open 7 days a week, long standing family business, is always looking to welcome new customers to its two retail showrooms in Howick. Importers of European antiques and decorative items, it also offers a café set in a French Apothecary shop fit out that was imported in 2010. The café provides the best of natural fare along side its coffee and tea range, which has quickly become a favourite among locals. We boast the largest range of antique and collectable items in the Auckland region. Opening hours: 7 days a week
HOWICK VILLAGE JEWELLER 98 Picton Street, Howick Tel: +64 9 534 7404 Web: www.HVJ.co.nz 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. Opening hours: Mon - Fri 9.00am to 5.30pm Thurs Open till 8.00pm Sat 9.00am to 4.00pm
NORTH ISLAND
MERRELL 41 Picton Street Howick Tel: +64 9 535 5287
Howick Village Jeweller
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Howick Village Jeweller photo courtesy of Timeless Images www.timelessimages.co.nz
The Antique Shop
Family Harbour Cruise © Adrian Malloch
Onetangi Beach, Waiheke Island © Adrian Malloch
FULLERS FERRIES & ISLAND TOURS
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CUSTOMER SERVICES Pier 1, Ferry Terminal, 99 Quay Street Auckland 1010 Tel: +64 9 367 9111 Fax: +64 9 367 9148 Web: www.fullers.co.nz
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Wine on Waiheke Tour © Adrian Malloch
Fullers Vessel Howick Adventurer beach© Adrian Malloch
Explore the Hauraki Gulf Marine Park with Fullers. You’d be hard pressed to find a more beautiful and inspiring landscape anywhere in the world. In fact, Waiheke Island, otherwise known as the ‘Island of Wine’ because of its stunning vineyards, was voted one of the top 12 destinations in the world (Frommers Guide). This paradise island is just 40 minutes by Fullers’ ferry from downtown Auckland and will amaze you. From spectacular scenery and beaches, to vineyards, tasting rooms, gift shops and art galleries – the island has something for everyone and with ferries running hourly from early morning through to midnight, you can experience it all!
For an unforgettable experience of a different kind, the volcanic Rangitoto Island will blow you away! Take a hike to the summit or jump on board the train to the top and walk the lava fields for an outof-this-world experience. Fullers also runs a harbour cruise, regular sailing trips across the harbour to historic Devonport town and cruises to other islands in the Hauraki Gulf.
Merrell
CUSTOMER SERVICES Pier 4, 139 Quay St, Downtown Auckland PO Box 1346 Auckland 1140 Tel: 0800 360 3472 Email: info@360discovery.co.nz Web: www.360discovery.co.nz
360 Discovery operates cruises to some of the most beautiful destinations in the Hauraki Gulf, none of them more alluring than the pristine native bird sanctuary, Tiritiri Matangi Island. From the moment you step onto Tiritiri Matangi Island you will be entranced by the serenade of gentle birdsong and the lush native bush. One of the world’s most successful volunteer conservation projects, it has been re-vegetated with around 300,000 native trees, 12 of New Zealand’s endangered birds and 3 reptile species have been re-introduced.
Take a 75 minute cruise with 360 Discovery up the Hauraki Gulf and you will experience nature and conservation at its very best. Meet a cheeky Takahe named Greg, and see the Little Blue Penguin (the world’s smallest penguin), Tui, Kokako, Hihi (stichbird), Rifleman (titipounamu) and more amongst the serene island surroundings. 360 Discovery also provide a Harbour Discovery Cruise as well as trips to other unique Hauraki Gulf Islands.
NORTH ISLAND
360 DISCOVERY CRUISES
Harbour Discovery Cruise © Adrian Malloch
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Tui on Tiritiri © Steve Molloy
360 Vessel Tiri Kat © Steve Molloy
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AUCKLAND MAP
Map courtesy Hema Maps NZ
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Daily departures from Auckland and Paihia, Bay of Islands
A Perfect Day Parnell There’s much more to Auckland than its bustling CBD, as Tui Thompson reveals in his suggestions on how to spend the perfect day in the city’s local suburbs. 9am Settle into Parnell’s village feel, with a breakfast at one of its quaint cafés. Read the paper and ease into the day over a big mix grill breakfast at Mink Café. 10.30am Walk off your breakfast with a gentle stroll through Parnell’s picturesque streets and 19th century architecture. 12 noon Parnell is considered one of Auckland’s premier arts precincts, so why not take the time to browse some of the local galleries? The International Art Centre on Parnell Road has a gallery and regular exhibitions where you can pick up some of New Zealand’s finest pieces of art. 1.30pm It’s time to rest the legs and enjoy a warm beverage. Head to Kokako for a cup of organic, free-trade coffee and a light lunch. Parnell Rose Garden. © Ting Teng
La Cigale. © Ting Teng
3pm Head to Parnell Village for fashion boutiques, antiques and jewellery, then to La Cigale for French inspired antiques, homewares, gifts and gourmet fare (there’s also a French farmers’ market here on Saturday and Sunday mornings).
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5pm Take the time to smell the roses at the Parnell Rose Garden, with a late afternoon stroll. 6pm Round off the day with a steak or some seafood at Di Mare Restaurant and Café nestled in a cobbled courtyard on Parnell Road, then head to the Ivory Lounge a few hundred metres down the road for some live music and a cocktail or two. w
WOOLLY FOR YOU
Woolly For You are one of New Zealandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s premier suppliers of specialist wool, mohair, angora and possum knitwear to both women and men. They also produce quality sheepskin, knitting yarn, toys, slippers, hats, scarves and other accessories. With everything New Zealand made, this is the perfect place to ďŹ nd a true Kiwi souvenir or gift, and Woolly For You can arrange to post your purchases overseas if you wish. Duty free purchases are also available for post orders.
237 Parnell Road, Parnell, AUCKLAND Ph: +64 9 377 5437
A Perfect Day Ponsonby 9am If you’re in need of a good coffee to start your day, you’re in the right place, with Ponsonby’s main drag, Ponsonby Road, lined with quality cafés whose baristas certainly know their way around an espresso machine. Landreth and Co is a good spot to stop off for breakfast, with an inventive menu that includes such items as gingerbread pancakes! 10.30am While still on Ponsonby Road, have a browse in the boutiques, designer furniture stores and galleries. Then take one of the many heritage walks, which showcase the town’s old architecture. 1pm You’ll have noticed on your trails that Ponsonby is a cosmopolitan hub of international food – from Turkish and Thai to Mediterranean and Malaysian, you’ll be spoilt for choice. Vinnies Restaurant just down the road in Herne Bay is a highly recommended fine dining spot.
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Vinnies Restaurant. © Ting Teng
Western Park. TIP sculpture by John Radford. © Ting Teng
3pm After lunch, take a stroll down to Karangahape Road or ‘K Road’ as it’s affectionately known. Here you’ll find even more restaurants, cafés, boutiques, vintage clothing, home décor, gift wares and art spaces. Then onto Western Park to kick your heels up and revive the batteries in the mid afternoon sun. 6.30pm Upmarket, fine dining is Ponsonby’s forte, so why not treat yourself to a meal at Sidart? It has a tasting menu and wine list that will knock your socks off. 9pm Round off your day where it started, back on Ponsonby Road with a glass of bubbly at one of the exclusive nightspots. w
A Perfect Day Newmarket 9am Known as the shopping capital of New Zealand, Newmarket will make you want to fill up on a big breakfast to prepare yourself for all the browsing and buying you’re about to do. Zarbo Café and Deli is just the place to start with scrumptious breakfast. 11am First stop is Newmarket’s main road, Broadway – here you can find the perfect outfit at one of the many boutique fashion stores. If you’re still not satisfied, you could visit Westfield 277 Newmarket shopping centre just down the road. 1pm Soak up some culture at the Auckland Museum, which features exhibitions, galleries, arts and crafts, as well as cultural history and a war memorial. There is also a café suitable for lunch.
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photo Teed Street. caption. © Ting Teng
photo caption. ©
Nuffield Street. © Ting Teng
3pm While away the rest of the afternoon on the trendy Nuffield, Teed and Osborne streets. Watch the world go by over a coffee and cake at one of the many cafés or test the credit card even more at the speciality stores, which are particularly good for fashion, jewellery, accessories and homewares. 6pm Stick around for dinner at one of the many restaurants. Mecca on Nuffield Street is a recommendation if you’re in the mood for Mediterranean. 8.30pm For a post dinner drink, head for wine or cocktails at Sugar Bar, where there are over 70 drink labels and 40 types of wine to choose from. w
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Shopping
in Auckland
Madonna Bowe and Jade Jones browse their way through Auckland’s best shopping spots.
Shopping bag one:
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CITY CENTRE Auckland is renowned for its highly competitive retail market, where elegant stores throughout the CBD temptingly display the best of international and local designer labels, accessories, homewares, cosmetics and jewellery. Your first stop in town should be High Street, Queens Arcade, Queen Street, the Chancery and Vulcan Lane, where you will find many fashion and accessory boutiques including the likes of Workshop, Karen Walker, Partridge Jewellers and Zambesi. Other places of interest in the CDB include: Smith and Caughey’s 253-261 Queen Street, Auckland Central Tel: +64 9 377 4770 www.smithandcaughey.co.nz In 1880, Marianne Smith opened her own drapery store, Smith and Caughey’s, which today remains a traditional shopping experience. Still family owned to this day, here you will find an unbeatable selection of local and international fashion labels like Missoni, Collette Dinnigan, Hugo Boss and Trelise Cooper. The store’s three levels also extend to a great range of luggage, china, food hampers, giftware and fragrances.
Lonely Dog 20 Customs Street, Auckland Tel: +64 9 550 7170 www.lonelydog.com This is your chance to stand in awe of and buy the paintings and sculptures of renowned New Zealand artists Ivan Clarke and Richard Taylor, both of whom prominently feature in art investment collections around the world. The name, The Lonely Dog, refers to an orphaned hound that lives in a fantastical world where cats and dogs co-exist. You can find a narrative of the dachshund in the paintings here, alongside Clarke’s trademark landscapes, which have illuminating qualities that appear to shine from off the canvas. The Chancery Chancery Street, Auckland Central www.chancery.net.nz Situated in the city’s central business district, you’ll find an eclectic mix of clothing, beauty, jewellery and gift boutiques at the Chancery. For the fashionistas out there, there is a range of international and local designer labels available in the many fashion stores. Cafes and restaurants along the cobblestone plaza provide the perfect place for al fresco dining.
Unique custom-made jeweller y by Seventy Six Design 45 new nor th road | eden terrace | auckland | new zealand ph +64 9 379 0276 | shaun@seventysixdesign.co.nz | www.seventysixdesign.co.nz
Shopping bag two:
NEWMARKET Shopping in Newmarket is a thrilling experience, where the window displays at places such as the Rialto Centre or Smith and Caughey’s 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: Nuffield Street Nuffield Street, 300 metres south of Newmarket Train Station Tel: +64 9 978 9400 www.nuffieldstreet.co.nz Touted as Newmarket’s most stylish strip, Nuffield Street is where you’ll find local and international fashion stores such as Alannah Hill, Kingan Jones and Superette, as well as a range of cafés and bars in which to rest your feet after a day’s shopping. Westfield 277 Newmarket 277 Broadway, Newmarket Tel: +64 9 978 9400 www.westfield.co.nz/newmarket 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 Augustine, Swarovski and Trenery, while Country Road, Polo Ralph Lauren, Hugo Boss and Veronika Maine cover fashion.
Shopping bag three:
PONSONBY Ponsonby Road is more of an alternative shopping strip, lined with an eclectic mix of boutiques, retail stores and funky gift shops. To pick up some souvenirs and homewares, visit:
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Macy Home 63 Ponsonby Road, Ponsonby Tel: +64 9 361 3388 www.ponsonbyroad.co.nz Peruse beautiful pieces of art, homewares, clothing, gifts, eyewear and jewellery. Texan Art Schools 95 Ponsonby Road, Ponsonby Tel: +64 9 376 6064 www.texanartschools.co.nz Proudly stocking local artists and designers, the Texan Art Schools showcase unique pieces of art and functional art including clocks, lamps, ceramics and jewellery. While you’re here, why not take home your very own glass tiki, kiwi or koru?
© Nuffield Street
Shopping bag four:
PARNELL Parnell has a charming village atmosphere and is wellknown for its galleries, cafés, restaurants and boutiques. While visiting Parnell, you should check out: Chocolate Boutique Shop 1, 323 Parnell Road, Parnell Village Tel: +64 9 377 8550 www.chocolateboutique.co.nz 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. ARTIS Gallery 280 Parnell Rd, Parnell Tel: +64 9 303 1090 www.artisgallery.co.nz This contemporary gallery has regular exhibitions and features paintings, sculptures and photographs from various leading New Zealand artists. w
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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
to the book that tells LD’s life story, ‘The Gold Almalogue’. Opening hours: Tue - Fri 10.00am to 6.00pm Sat - Mon 11.00am to 4.00pm
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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.
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THE LONELY DOG GALLERY
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Gray Line Sightseeing Enjoy sightseeing aboard premium air-conditioned coaches, with informative commentary by experienced drivers. Taped commentary in Japanese, Mandarin and Spanish is available on most tours.
Half Day Tour of Auckland Auckland Highlights (CODE 01, 02) An informative commentary by the driver is included during this 3-hour tour of New Zealand’s largest city by air-conditioned coach. Highlights include the Auckland Museum ($5 donation requested), Mission Bay, Tamaki Drive, Mt Eden, CBD, Auckland Harbour Bridge and the city’s waterfront. 9.15am to 12.15pm, or 2.00pm to 5.00pm $74pp
Full Day Tours From Auckland Waitomo / Rotorua One Day Deluxe (CODE 7R) Visit these famous destinations. Attractions include Waitomo Glowworm Caves, Agrodome Farm Tour, Traditional Maori Concert, Maori Arts & Crafts displays and the World Famous Geothermal Activity at Te Puia, refreshments, tea/coffee, light lunch and an evening snack also included. “The most comprehensive day tour out of Auckland!” Departs Auckland at 7.30am, returns to Auckland at 8.15pm $325pp
Bay of Islands One Day (CODE 11CL) including Cape Brett Cruise Travel by coach to the Bay of Islands. Visit the Waitangi Treaty grounds with a local guide, followed by the spectacular Hole-in-the-Rock cruise Light lunch is included. Departs Auckland at 7.30am, returns to Auckland at 8.00pm $265pp
Takahe, Sumner Beach, Lyttleton Harbour and Tunnel. Tour finishes at the world renowned Antarctic Centre (return transfer to city centre included). Departs Christchurch 9.30am and finish at your leisure $108pp
Full Day Tour From Christchurch Christchurch to Queenstown via Mount Cook (CODE 27) Highlights include Lake Tekapo and the opportunity to experience a scenic flight (own expense) then arrival at Mount Cook Village for your choice of lunch at a cafe (own arrangements), or explore the walks in and around the village then arrive late afternoon in Queenstown. Departs Christchurch 7.30am, arrives Queenstown 6.40pm $250pp
Full Day Tour From Queenstown Milford Sound Day Tour (CODE 41) Travel from Queenstown for morning tea (own arrangements) in Te Anau, enjoy the sight of towering snow-capped mountains, magnificent rainforests and spectacular waterfalls, then descend into Milford Sound for your 1 hour 45 min cruise. Return by coach. Optional return flight available at extra cost, weather permitting – see your driver. – GLASS ROOF COACH OPERATES ON MOST DEPARTURES Departs Queenstown 7.20am, arrives Queenstown 7.45pm. $240pp
Half Day Tour From Christchurch Christchurch Morning Highlights with the Antarctic Centre (CODE 21A) Christchurch is known as the Garden City. Join Gray Line as we visit Hagley Park, the Avon River, a walk through Mona Vale, complimentary tea/coffee at the Sign of the
Prices are subject to seasonal changes
Freephone: 0800 NZ TOUR (0800 698 687) 6am-11pm | www.grayline.co.nz
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REMUERA Remuera is one of Aucklandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most gracious suburbs, and a shopping district renowned for style and quality. With a fabulous selection of independent shops, stylish boutiques and tempting cafes and restaurants, Remuera is the perfect destination for a relaxed shopping experience. Only 10 minutes from the CBD, Remuera is compact and easily walkable with tree-lined streets and several heritage buildings. Enjoy our beautifully presented shops, unique gift ideas and friendly service, as we welcome you to Remuera. www.remuera.org.nz
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Jems of Remuera
Flair of Remuera
Antheas Jewellers
JEMS OF REMUERA 346 Remuera Road, Remuera Tel: +64 9 522 8553 Email: antiques@jor.co.nz Web: www.jemsofremuera.co.nz
FLAIR OF REMUERA Remuera Mall, 319 Remuera Road Tel: +64 9 524 9722 Email: flair@xnet.co.nz Web: www.flairofremuera.co.nz
ANTHEAS JEWELLERS 333 Remuera Road, Remuera Tel: +64 9 520 1092 Email: antheas@xtra.co.nz Web: www.antheasjewellers.co.nz
Lift yourself from the ordinary at JEMS of Remuera, where you will find exquisite jewellery, antiques, gifts and decor solutions. JEMS has estate and vintage jewellery, furniture, silver and extraordinary pieces rarely found in New Zealand. Browse among the kaleidoscope of collectables on offer to find Art Deco and Art Nouveau alongside contemporary pieces that will grace your living spaces inside and out. Opening hours: Mon - Sat 9.00am to 5.30pm Sun 11.00am to 4.00pm
Looking for sophisticated and exclusive fashion that sets you apart from the rest? Then take a look at the exquisite line-up of top quality labels at Flair of Remuera. Known throughout New Zealand as a long-established fashion boutique, Flair imports directly from well-known German fashion houses including Basler and Gerry Weber. Special occasion, day and casual wear are all also available here at Flair of Remuera. Opening hours: Mon - Fri 9.00am to 5.30pm Sat 10.00am to 4.00pm
Established 1980, Antheas Jewellers are specialists in newly created handmade rings, that are elegantly set in classical styles and simply timeless. Antheas also stock coloured stones, South Sea pearls and collectable fine Art Deco and period jewellery. Antheas are buyers and sellers of gold and can also provide jewellery valuations for insurance, general jewellery repairs and duty free purchases. Opening hours: Mon - Fri 9.00am to 5.00pm Sat 10.00am to 2.00pm
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Remuera Street
The Gift Room
SANDERS OF REMUERA 385 Remuera Road, Remuera Tel: +64 9 520 3630 Email: info@sandersjewellers.co.nz Web: www.sandersjewellers.co.nz
REMUERA GALLERY 360 Remuera Road, Remuera Tel: +64 9 524 7403 Email: Scott.Dargaville@paradise.net.nz Web: www.remuera-gallery.co.nz
THE GIFT ROOM – THE LLADRÓ GALLERY Remuera Mall, 319 Remuera Road Tel: +64 9 524 4973 Email: sales@thegiftroom.co.nz www.thegiftroom.co.nz
Sanders of Remuera Jewellers specialise in handmade jewellery of the highest standard. We are also exclusive stockists of Longines and Skagen watches, as well as Pandora charms and jewellery. Our workshop has a fully trained European jeweller and our watchmaker and jewellery appraiser have over 40 years’ experience between them. Purchases are available tax free if travelling overseas. Opening hours: Mon - Fri 10.00am to 5.00pm Sat 10.00am to 4.00pm
Renowned for contemporary fine art, picture framing and restoration, The Remuera Gallery has been a landmark in the area for the past 30 years and continues to support a host of renowned New Zealand Artists. The gallery offers an eclectic collection of paintings from abstract to traditional, as well as sculptures, glassware and ceramics. Selective exhibitions throughout the year showcase a body of work by particular artists. Opening Hours: Monday to Friday: 10.00am - 4.00pm Saturday: 10.30am - 4.00pm
With more than 500 exquisite pieces ranging from simple figurines to exclusive sculptures, The Gift Room has it all in their Lladró Gallery. With favourable exchange rates combined with no import duty, The Gift Room is one of the best places to buy Lladró in the world. We are located just 10 minutes from downtown Auckland. Or, we also offer a free pick up and delivery service. Opening Hours: Weekdays 9.00am – 5.30pm Saturdays 10.00am – 4.00pm Sundays and Holidays by appointment
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Remuera Gallery
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Dining
in Auckland Sam Eichblatt and Jade Jones taste test some of Auckland’s best restaurants with some pleasing results…
Iguacu 269 Parnell Road, Parnell Tel: +64 9 358 4804 www.iguacu.co.nz There is something for everyone here at this lively brasserie with extensive menus, including a tasty tapas selection that marries tantalisingly well with the restaurant’s large range of quality New Zealand wines. You will also be able to count on the freshness of your meal, as most ingredients, including the chutneys, chocolates, biscotti and smoked meats, are made on the premises. Kermadac Level 1, Viaduct Quay, Corner Quay and Hobson Streets, Auckland City Tel: +64 9 304 0454 www.kermadec.co.nz Fancy a meal with stunning harbour views, or perhaps in a rooftop garden or upbeat seafood brasserie and bar? Well, you’ve come to the right place! The menu is just as diverse and creative, and with dishes such as wild red deer with beetroot purée, chocolate, shallot and raspberries, you may well will feel compelled to try something new.
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Bracu 49 Main Road, RD1, Bombay, Auckland Tel: +64 9 236 1020 www.simuolive.co.nz Perched atop Simunovich Olive Estate, Bracu is a charming retreat for the senses. Not only will you enjoy an escape from the hustle and bustle of the city to a functioning olive grove, but the food here is a refreshing delight with a constantly changing menu subject to seasonal availability. For something a little different, you can choose to dine in the rare wine library or even in the kitchen where you can see, smell and hear your meal being prepared. Kura Sake Bar 315B Queen Street, Auckland City Tel: +64 9 379 5656 www.sakebars.co.nz/kura Kura is one of Auckland’s most well-regarded modern Asian restaurants, with a diverse range of Japanese fusion cuisine offset by an extensive sake list. Enjoy traditional Japanese favourites, or sample a more unusual dish such as wasabi octopus.
Prego 226 Ponsonby Road, Ponsonby Tel: +64 9 376 3095 www.prego.co.nz 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 over a wood-fired pizza or plate of calamari and a bottle of chilled pinot grigio. Soul Bar and Bistro Viaduct Harbour, Auckland City Tel: +64 9 356 7249 www.soulbar.co.nz 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. French Café 210 Symonds Street, Auckland Tel: +64 9 377 1911 www.thefrenchcafe.co.nz French Café’s understated façade hides one of Auckland’s most consistently awarded restaurants. It has a beautiful menu offering modern European cuisine, which changes constantly to reflect the season’s best produce. This ‘café’ is a sophisticated restaurant style establishment that also offers various tasting menus to ensure you maximise your flavour experience. Dine SkyCity Grand Hotel, 90 Federal Street, Auckland City Tel: +64 9 363 7030 www.skycityauckland.co.nz Dine is an impressive venue that was masterfully designed by Tom Skyring. The furnishings here 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. Prohibition 108 Ponsonby Road, Ponsonby Tel: +64 9 361 5858 www.prohibition.co.nz With 1920s themed décor including trimmings of wood, brass, velvet and crystal, Prohibition oozes charm and sophistication. The weekly changing menu includes oldfashioned European fusion fare such as braised beef osso buco or black pudding stuffed chicken leg with carrot slaw, chestnut and oyster mushroom.
The Engine Room 115 Queen Street, Northcote Point Tel: +64 9 480 9502 www.engineroom.net.nz 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 twice baked goats’ cheese soufflé and, for something sweet, try churros with chocolate – so sugary and satisfying. w
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Clooney 33 Sale Street, Freemans Bay Tel: +64 9 358 1702 www.clooney.co.nz 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.
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© Iguacu Restaurant
Aucklandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s best Casual Dining restaurant in the heart of The Viaduct.
For bookings please call 09 356 7249 or visit soulbar.co.nz | Soul Bar & Bistro, Viaduct Harbour, Auckland
explore auckland’s most stunning park
Discover our secret hiding place away from city life just a few minutes from the CBD, Eden Park and enroute to the airport. Explore One Tree Hill and Auckland’s most picturesque farm park. And when you’re done, sit back and savour breakfast, coffee, high tea or stylish lunch cuisine. Relax like you’re miles from anywhere and return to the other world only when you have to.
630 2888
Cornwall Park. Greenlane. Auckland E email@cornwallparkrestaurant.co.nz www.cornwallparkrestaurant.co.nz
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tables perfect for big groups. Cocktails are a specialty of the bar team, and every day during “Lucky Hour” (4-6pm) there’s a cocktail of the day for only $6. LOVE U LONG TIME Opening hours: Open 7 Nights until late Open for Lunch Mon - Fri
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Transport yourself to the exotic South-East Asian trading house of Monsoon Poon. Our menu features authentic dishes from South India, South China, Thailand, Vietnam, Malaysia & Indonesia. The vibrant dining room has a warm, fun atmosphere and Asian-inspired décor; there are booths and separate spaces as well as large
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2 Lower Hobson St, Ground floor Downtown Carpark Tel: +64 9 379 9311 Fax: +64 9 379 9312 Email: auckland@monsoonpoon.co.nz Web: www.monsoonpoon.co.nz
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MONSOON POON AUCKLAND
IGUAÇU
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269 Parnell Road, Parnell, Auckland Tel: +64 9 358 4804 Fax: +64 9 358 0587 Web: www.iguacu.co.nz Book instantly online. As a testament to Iguaçu’s popularity, it has been voted New Zealand’s best restaurant two years running, as well as Auckland’s best restaurant for the last four years! Located in the quaint shopping district of Parnell, Iguaçu is one of Auckland’s largest and most popular “Kiwi” eateries, offering a very unique and vibrant atmosphere. 34356_2
The brasserie style menu features modern international cuisine with innovative flavour combinations, which extend to comprehensive vegetarian, tapas and children’s menus. Also, if you want to sample some of the best pinot noir in the country, this is the place to do it! Opening hours: Mon - Sun 12.00noon until late
THE VIADUCT GRILL 95â&#x20AC;&#x201C;97 Customs Street West Viaduct Basin, Auckland Tel: +64 9 307 0995
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.
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The service is relaxed and friendly and the harbour view displays what the Auckland waterfront is all about.
Cnr Chancery & O’Connell Streets Auckland Central Tel: +64 9 377 5088 Fax: +64 9 377 5077 Web: www.khao.co.nz
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 known for its yum cha lunch prepared by experienced Hong Kong chefs. The current signature dishes are Peking duck, Szechuan chilli beef and 31709_2
Chicken, Gon BO chicken, fillet of beef Cantonese style, honey king prawns and the Dragonboat seafood combination in phoenix nest. It is fully licensed. Opening hours: 9.30am to 3.30pm 5.30pm to 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 Thai place I’ve been to in years.” 34526_1
Experience what Aucklanders look for in quality Thai dining at this delightful restaurant. Mention this ad for a complimentary offer. Opening hours: Dinner: Mon - Sat 5:30pm to 10:30pm
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KHAO
Atrium Elliot 7-37 Elliot Street, Auckland Tel: +64 9 379 6996 Fax: +64 9 379 0283
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With its colourful array of cocktail lounges, wine bars and boutique drinking venues, Auckland is just as vibrant by night as it is by day, discovers Sam Eichblatt. © Hotel DeBrett
© Gypsy Tea Room
© Racket Bar
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The House Bar Level 1, 2 High Street, Auckland City Tel: +64 9 925 9000 www.hoteldebrett.com Located inside the iconic and recently renovated Hotel DeBrett, this cosy, woodpanelled 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.
Mondial 549 Great North Road, Grey Lynn Tel: +64 9 376 6682 www.mondialbar.co.nz Seeing as it is run by a Spaniard and a Frenchman, it’s no wonder stepping into Mondial is like entering the embassy of a pan-European country. Mondial offers delicious tapas alongside a fine range of European wines, including the renowned Lustau sherry brand.
Khuja Lounge Level 3, 536 Queen Street, Auckland City Tel: +64 9 377 3711 www.khuja.co.nz 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.
Gypsy Tea Room 455 Richmond Road, Grey Lynn Tel: +64 9 361 6970 www.gypsytearoom.co.nz
Mo’s Corner Wolfe and Federal Streets, Auckland City Tel: +64 9 366 6066 www.mosbar.co.nz
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.
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.
SPQR 150 Ponsonby Road, Ponsonby Tel: +64 9 360 1710 www.spqrnz.co.nz 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.
Sugar Bar 3a York Street, Newmarket Tel: +64 9 524 2628 www.sugarbar.co.nz While there may not be too many wine or cocktail bars in Newmarket, this isn’t a problem when there is a drinks list at the Sugar Bar that has over 110 different drops of wines and other alcoholic beverages to choose from. Artisan cheese and meat platters, as well as gourmet pizzas and Devonport chocolates will also ensure that you don’t go hungry while you’re here.
After Dark
North Island
Auckland
Galatos 17 Galatos Street, Newton Tel: +64 9 303 1928 www.galatos.co.nz 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. w
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Racket Bar 6-10 Roukai Lane, Britomart Auckland City Tel: +64 9 309 5854 www.racketbar.co.nz 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.
Dida’s Wine and Tapas Lounge 54 Jervois Road, Herne Bay Tel: +64 9 376 2813 www.glengarry.co.nz/didas Originally a grocery store owned by Croatian winemaker Josef 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.
Welcome to
Northland
Nyssa Veraphunt discovers a wealth of Kiwi history embedded within the colourful surrounds of the country’s most northerly region, Northland.
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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 Maori 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, it was not only on Northland’s
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Matauri Bay. © Tomas Pavelka
shores where the first humans arrived in New Zealand, but this is also the first place in the country where Europeans originally made permanent contact with the Maori, where the first sealing and whaling settlements were established and, after much dispute, where 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 (which can reach over 20 metres in circumference) and towering height (which can reach 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,
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.
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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, some of which 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 a justifiably acclaimed focus on serving up the best of the area’s produce. Blessed with an abundance of treasures on and off the land, in Northland your time will be filled with discovery and adventure, just as the Maori warriors found here all those years ago. w
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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 your way through Northland and view 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. Further north lies another water wonderland, the Bay of Islands, which 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 bottom 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
Welcome to
Rotorua
With its volcanic landscape, bubbling mud pools, heritage walking trails and nature walks, Rotorua is an exciting outdoor wonderland, as Jamie Cook reveals.
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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 in the central North Island, about 230 kilometres south east 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. In the early 1870s Rotorua became host to numerous European visitors as word spread of its miraculous healing waters. Today, it is known as New Zealand’s hub of rejuvenation and relaxation. The five primary geothermal areas – Tikitere (or Hell’s Gate), Whakarewarewa, Waimangu, Wai-O-Tapu and Orakei Korako – offer a range of hot springs, mud pools, spa treatments, cultural tours and the opportunity to get 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. 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 200 square metres (50 acres) of Rotorua’s most active geothermal park is far 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 spas, situated in the grounds, provide a more tangible way of experiencing the terrain, with your very own mud bath. The Maori 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
Inferno Crater Lake in Waimangu volcanic valley. © P Dmitry
White Island Volcano. © P Dmitry
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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 their feet. most luxurious and award-winning spas. 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. It offers fusion-based cuisine and breathtaking views overlooking the lake and township. Wai-O-Tapu (Maori for ‘sacred waters’) is Rotorua’s most colourful geothermal area with hot pools ranging in colours from an olive yellow and gold, through to a vibrant green and turquoise blue. The Champagne Pool, with its cocktail mix of mineral and silicate, is a brilliant example of such dramatic colour arrangements; and the Lady Knox Geyser hosts a truly impressive display of power when it 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 Whakarewarewatanga 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. 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 hosts regular exhibitions by established artists, and has 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 marine volcano with a scenic tour of White Island? Situated 50 kilometres off the coast of Whakatane, White Island is believed to be more than 150,000 years-old and offers visitors the thrill of viewing bright yellow sulphurous vents and feeling the earth rumble just below their feet. If you wish to experience the magnificent scenery of Rotorua at a decidedly slower pace, you could take 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
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 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
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the chief home of the ‘fairy people’, where Arorangi Peak Restaurant is situated today. As an iconic restaurant they have won many awards including the New Zealand Lamb Cuisine Award and recently the Beef and Lamb Hallmark of Excellence Award in 2010 and 2011. Visitors often describe them as one of the most memorable moments in their journey through New Zealand. TO BE SEEN TO BE BELIEVED
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Top of Mountain Road, Rotorua, New Zealand Tel: +64 7 347 0036 Fax: +64 7 346 0571 Web: www.aorangipeak.co.nz
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AORANGI PEAK RESTAURANT
Welcome to
Lake Taupo and Ruapehu
From adrenaline-packed volcano walks and bungy jumping to relaxing in thermal springs among the surrounds of snow-capped peaks, Nyssa Veraphunt has an adventure of all sorts in New Zealand’s Central Plateau.
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f you like the outdoors, then you’ll love the heart of the North Island, namely the Lake Taupo and Ruapehu regions. Offering an abundance of adventure activities set against a unique and awe-inspiring backdrop, 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 northwest (the only river in New Zealand which runs south to north) to just below Auckland. Lake Taupo’s clear and calm waters also attract water sports 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. 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 as 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 40 kilometres south-west of Lake Taupo in the Tongariro National Park.
The reserve, which is New Zealand’s oldest national park and a dual World Heritage site, was 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. 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 fanatics, who clamber to the mountain’s two commercial ski fields – Whakapapa (New Zealand’s largest) and Turoa. These ski areas also offer summer sightseeing activities and guided walks to Crater Lake. In the warmer months, the Tongariro National Park is popular
Mount Ruapehu from Ohakune. © Graeme Knox
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 almost 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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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 adrenaline, try a sky dive or bungy jump – Taupo has the world’s largest commercial tandem sky dive drop zone, 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 up to 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
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This multi-peaked summit is so big that it presides over other mountains, deserts, lakes, alpine rivers, volcanoes and wilderness.
Welcome to
Wellington
Lilly Moyle discovers this vibrant capital city is a diamond in the rough.
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urrounded by a wild and windswept landscape, urban Wellington is nestled between a border of lush green hills and the sparkling Lambton Harbour. It’s geographically stunning, compact and easily accessible by foot. It has a lively energetic atmosphere and is the arts, culture and film capital of New Zealand. Wellington gracefully strikes a balance between governmental duties, the arts and Mother Nature. It has a big city, cosmopolitan vibe, yet a small town quaintness that is loveable. Situated at the bottom of the North Island, Wellington is often seen as a stepping stone to get from North to South Island, or vice versa, but it has its own big personality. There’s never a dull moment in Wellington; this city by the sea sparkles day and night. Wellington is a city of diversity, where nature meets cosmopolitan sophistication. As the capital of New Zealand, it hosts many parliamentary buildings and
government officials crucial to the running of the country. For those interested in architecture, the 10-storey executive wing of Parliament, commonly known as the Beehive (because of its hive-like appearance) is well worth a look. Wellington has also established itself as the Mecca of arts and film in New Zealand, and so has become a melting pot, where politics meets art in a charming balance. There are two distinct geographic facts that set Wellington apart from the rest of the country. It is windy and hilly. ‘Windy Welly’, as it is often called, is centred on the picturesque sparkling Lambton Harbour, and the wide golden sand beach of Oriental Bay. Charming Victorian cottages cling to the lush green hills, which define its borders. Wellington is also compact and easy to navigate on foot, but its hills are unavoidable, so you must be prepared for a bit of huff and puff. With
Its compactness allows you to be sitting in a bustling café one minute and in the wild raw countryside the next.
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magnificent views from the top of Wellington Botanic Gardens, it is well worth the hike, but for those who would prefer a leisurely and scenic option, ride the historic Wellington Cable Car west up past Kelburn Park and Victoria University to unwind and witness breathtaking sunsets from the top of the gardens. Wellington can either be a retreat for those seeking peace and tranquillity or a playground for adrenaline junkies. Its compactness allows you to be sitting in a bustling café one minute and in the wild raw countryside
the next. As with the rest of New Zealand, Wellington and extreme sports go hand in hand. Due to the natural contours of Wellington’s geography, Wellingtonians enjoy a plethora of outdoor activities, including mountain bike riding, hiking, scenic costal walks, sailing, kayaking, surfing, kite boarding and much more. To shelter from the wind there are hundreds of galleries, boutique shops, cool eateries and funky bars to check out, which are only a short stroll away from wherever you are in the city. In fact, there are more restaurants per capita here than there are in New York City. Wellington has a thriving coffee culture spilling out onto the streets and, due to its close proximity to neighbouring wine regions, quality wine is never far from hand. Cuba Street is the city’s bohemian quarter where you can find world-class hospitality and quality coffee, while the Wellington Market is filled with the roaring buzz of locals grabbing cheap eats. You will also find a flourishing arts and theatre scene in Wellington, as it is home to the Royal New Zealand Ballet Company, the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra and numerous street entertainers. The national museum of New Zealand, Te Papa, is a must see when visiting Wellington. With a prominent waterfront location, the museum has interactive displays, which explain New Zealand’s rich history, as well as offering other interesting and constantly changing exhibitions. Wellington strikes a balance between artistic exuberance and cosmopolitan pace, while being coupled with an institutional mindset and a magnificent location. It is easily New Zealand’s most happening and vibrant city, and its diversity lends itself to any traveller’s interests or budget. Step into a world where art, dance, song and human expression mingle with Mother Nature and the country’s political roots. If you experience the delights of this splendid harbour city for long enough, you’ll see this bite-sized capital is an explosion of flavour. w
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WELLINGTON MAP
Map courtesy Hema Maps NZ
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$OO RXU WUHDVXUH KDV D VWRU\ Like our museum, Te Papa Store is ďŹ lled with amazing things that all have a story to tell. Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll ďŹ nd incredible one-off NZ art pieces, exquisite jewellery and beautiful books â&#x20AC;&#x201C; all in a stylish and welcoming shopping destination.
Kirkcaldie and Stains, 34 Brandon St. Open 9.30amâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;5.30pm Mon-Thur, 9.30amâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;7pm Fri, 10amâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;5pm Sat, 10amâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;4pm Sun. Phone: (04) 472 5899 ext 600. Te Papa, Cable St, Wellington. Open 9amâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;6pm daily and until 9pm Thur. Phone: (04) 381 7013. tepapastore.co.nz
MAORI ART MARKET
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6, 7, 8 and 9 October 2011 TE RAUPARAHA ARENA and PATAKA Museum of Arts and Cultures in Porirua City www.maoriartmarket.com www.pataka.org.nz
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Maori Art Market 2011 will be the biggest single collection of contemporary Maori art ever assembled at one time when it goes on display and sale on 6, 7, 8 and 9 October at the TE RAUPARAHA ARENA and PATAKA Museum of Arts and Cultures in Porirua City. Maori Art Market features painting, carving, photography, weaving, jewellery, clay and mixed media from more than 200 leading and emerging contemporary Maori artists.
Refer to the Maori Art Market website for full details of this event.
The city is rich in culture and is the proud home of PATAKA, Museum of Arts and Cultures. PATAKA has five main galleries with over 14 major exhibitions annually dedicated to showcasing the very best in contemporary Maori, Pacific Island, New Zealand and international art. Admission is free. Be inspired, stimulate your creativity or let us tempt you with a gift from our shop. Within the complex you’ll find a quality café, a beautiful Japanese garden and the Porirua City Library.
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Porirua is also the home of TE RAUPARAHA ARENA and ARENA AQUATIC CENTRE, a fantastic event facility and family swimming complex. Visitors to PORIRUA CITY will not be disappointed! Refer to PATAKA and TE RAUPARAHA ARENA websites for exhibitions and events at these venues. NORTH ISLAND
Cnr Parumoana and Norrie Streets, Porirua City www.pataka.org.nz www.terauparaha-arena.co.nz
Just 20 minutes north of Wellington, Porirua City offers peaceful surrounds, beautiful walks and sandy beaches. Porirua’s natural beauty is matched with a vibrant culture, world-class art, shopping and outdoor pursuits.
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PATAKA MUSEUM OF ARTS AND CULTURES AND TE RAUPARAHA ARENA
Shopping
in Wellington
Just like the city itself, Wellington has a unique charm when it comes to fashion. Julia Garvey explores some of the precincts and stores that see the city’s fashion scene range from cutting edge to classic.
Shopping bag one:
Lambton Quay This bustling and vibrant shopping precinct forms the heart of Wellington’s CBD, and is home to New Zealand’s finest range of fashion, knitwear, music and bookstores. Harbour City Shopping Centre, Customhouse Quay, Capital on the Quay and Grey Street are also worth a visit and present boutique-style retailers such as Andrea Moore, Gregory and Hanne Anderson. Kirkcaldie and Stains 165-177 Lambton Quay, Wellington Tel: +64 4 472 5899 www.kirkcaldies.co.nz Established in 1863, Kirkcaldie and Stains offers three floors of luxury shopping and first class service. Products include men’s, ladies’ and children’s wear, furniture, cosmetics, kitchenware and luggage.
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Partridge Jewellers 306 Lambton Quay, Wellington Tel: +64 4 473 9129 www.partridgejewellers.com With five generations of jewellery and watch making experience under their belt, Partridges is certainly the place to visit for all your diamond, precious gem, pearl, gold and platinum needs. If you’re in the market for something a little personalised or unique, there are also fully qualified craftsmen on hand ready to turn your ideas into reality! Old Bank Arcade and Chambers Old Bank Arcade and Chambers, corner Lambton Quay and Willis Streets, Wellington Tel: +64 4 922 0600 www.oldbank.co.nz The restored Old Bank Arcade and Chambers is a prominent Wellington landmark featuring local designers such as 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.
Shopping bag two:
Harbourside Market Corner of Cable Street and Barnett Street, beside Te Papa Tel: +64 4 495 7895 www.harboursidemarket.co.nz Every Sunday morning Wellington’s oldest and most popular market comes to life with fresh fruit, vegetables, fish, cheese, coffee, jams and other homemade goodies.
Shopping bag three:
Cuba Street One of Wellington’s most vibrant shopping precincts, Cuba Street, including Cuba Mall, has a distinct Bohemian vibe, with an eclectic mix of bars, cafés, restaurants, second-hand shops, arts and crafts stores, galleries, music shops, boutiques and retailers. Abstract Designs Abstract Designs, 125 Cuba Mall, Wellington Tel: +64 4 385 7511 www.abstractdesign.co.nz 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. Wakefield Street 126 Wakefield Street, Wellington Tel: +64 4 499 3558 www.karenwalker.com At the harbour end of Cuba Street is Wakefield Street, where you’ll find Karen Walker’s Wellington store. 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.
© Karen Walker
Shopping bag four:
BLAIR STREET Backing on to the exciting Courtenay Place, Blair Street takes personal style to a new level and may even cause an unsuspecting shopaholic’s heart to race with its collection of fashion boutiques. SOUP 8 Blair Street, Wellington Tel: +64 4 385 4722 www.soup.net.nz One store to get excited about in particular is Soup, a cutting edge boutique bursting at the seams with highend 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.
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
1 Grey Street Wellington Tel: +64 4 471 2814 Fax: +64 4 471 2818 Email: mail@hanne.co.nz Web: www.hanne.co.nz Hanne Andersen Jewellery, established in 1988, specialises in sterling silver and gold contemporary jewellery. An important part of the collection is the jewellery created by local New Zealand artists; these pieces are often colourful, sometimes whimsical and always exciting. Many of the collections are unique to Wellington, while others 34549_1
are unique to New Zealand. The range at Hanne Andersen Jewellery includes top international brands such as Pandora, Thomas Sabo, Evolve, and Skagen watches. Opening hours: Mon-Fri 10am to 6pm, Sat 10am to 5pm, Sundays and public holidays closed.
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Shopping bag five:
HANNE ANDERSEN JEWELLERY
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SCOTTIES BOUTIQUE 4 Blair Street, Wellington Tel: +64 4 384 3805 www.scottiesboutique.co.nz 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.
JACKSON STREET PETONE Tel: + 64 6 939 2811 Fax: +: 64 4 939 3493 Email: info@jacksonstreet.co.nz Web: www.jacksonstreetpetone.co.nz
You will also find an award-winning array of cafés and restaurants here, as well as Te Puna Wai Ora (the Spring of Life), pure and untreated artesian water.
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Step inside a story when you walk down the historical, arty and boutique hub that is Jackson Street Petone. The street is also home to some of the Wellington region’s most original shops, with more than 200 stores offering culinary treats, fashion, beauty, art, music, Kiwiana and that’s just the start! And all of this is only 15 minutes from downtown Wellington.
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For the sports minded, Petone is the only place in New Zealand you’ll find the Walk of Champions, which includes street plaques celebrating locals who played sport at national and international levels. Other activities include a round of golf at Shandon, a visit to the Petone Rugby Club museum or a walk along the Petone foreshore. More information can be found at www.huttvalleynz.com
T H E N A M E T H AT C H A N G E D DIAMONDS FOREVER... SINCE MARCEL TOLKOWSKY INVENTED THE “IDEAL CUT” IN 1919, TOLKOWSKY DIAMONDS HAVE BEEN C E L E B R AT E D W O R L D W I D E F O R T H E I R PERFECT BRILLIANCE. NOW FOR THE FIRST TIME IN AUSTRALIA AND NEW ZEALAND, THE COLLECTION IS UNVEILED.
QUOIL Contemporary New Zealand Jewellery Gallery 149 Willis St (btw Manners & Dixon St) Tel: 04 348 1499
Wear your art—we express who we are through these small treasures. QUOIL represents exclusively New Zealand jewellery artists, producing work at the epitome of quality and preciousness. You can browse the current show or peruse the drawers for a treasure-trove of wearable pieces for men and women, with a distinctly kiwi flavour. 34607_2
Visit the fabulous QUOIL online gallery if time is short: www.quoil.co.nz
Opening hours: Mon - Fri 11.00am to 5.30pm Sat - Sun 11.00am to 4.00pm
S E V E N G E N E R AT I O N S O F P E R F E C T I O N T O L K O W S K Y. C O M
EXCLUSIVE TO:
JUBILEE JEWELLERS 14 CHEWS LANE, WELLINGTON PH: (04) 4712-961
Dining
in Wellington
Jacklyn Lloyd uncovers the tastes, sights and smells that make Wellington one of New Zealand’s most popular food lovers’ destinations. Logan Brown 192 Cuba Street, Wellington Tel: +64 4 801 5114 www.loganbrown.co.nz When Al Brown and Steve Logan first established their award-winning restaurant Logan Brown, they wanted to take the standard of Wellington fine dining to a new level – this they have done. The focus is on the knowledge of ingredients, beautifully prepared in resulting dishes like Rangitikei lamb rack with rabbit bolognese, pumpkin polenta and gremolata. Sit back and soak up the unpretentious ambience at Logan Brown, while feeling captivated by the restaurant’s stunning décor – it was formerly a 1920s banking chamber. Boulcott Street Bistro 99 Boulcott Street, Wellington Tel: +64 4 499 4199 www.boulcottstreetbistro.co.nz 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 cuisine may seem traditional, the flavours and fresh ingredients are truly timeless and always welcome.
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Floriditas 161 Cuba Street, Wellington Tel: +64 4 381 2212 www.floriditas.co.nz 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 through its combination of seasonal ingredients sourced both locally and from surrounding regions in New Zealand. Fratelli 15 Blair Street, Wellington Tel: +64 4 801 6615 www.fratelli.net.nz Fratelli is located in the heart of Wellington City’s entertainment district. Serving fresh modern Italian cuisine, Fratelli specialises in homemade pasta, gnocchi, risotto and wood-fired pizzas. Taking 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. The cuisine is perfectly matched with an extensive Italian wine list to deliver a truly Italian dining experience. The White House Restaurant 232 Oriental Parade, Oriental Bay, Wellington Tel: +64 4 385 8555 www.whr.co.nz Take delight in some of New Zealand’s finest seasonal produce at The White House Restaurant, which boasts a thoughtful and creative approach of highlighting natural flavours. Feast on free range cured pork belly with ginger and lychee jelly 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. 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 liver mousse, rillettes and terrine of duck with fig and walnut washed down with a glass of exclusively imported French champagne. Martin Bosley’s Yacht Club Restaurant Royal Port Nicholson Yacht Club 103 Oriental Parade, Wellington Tel: +64 4 920 8302 www.martin-bosley.com 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 snapper and smoked eel terrine with cauliflower puree, dashi jelly, oyster and lettuce emulsion – and that’s just the entrée. The General Practitioner 100 Willis Street, Wellington Tel: +64 4 499 6001 www.thegp.co.nz The General Practitioner is a popular gastro pub 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.
© Logan Brown, Grant Maiden.
head chef at Logan Brown How does your menu accommodate seasonal produce? Our menu is fully based around the seasons – it is the driving factor of what dictates our menu. New Zealand is such a seasonal country with fruit and vegetables being at the top of the list for seasonality, then a lot of seafood including whitebait, oysters, scallops and certain species of fin fish only available at a particular time of year. Using these seasonal products is paramount to getting your hands on products at their pristine best. How is Wellington a unique dining destination? I think Wellington restaurants, cafes and bars really don’t have a fierce rivalry, rather they tend to work together promoting a genuine spirit of hospitality. With great products from the surrounding region served by passionate professionals, the result is a great experience for the customer. What is your signature dish? Logan Brown is famous for paua ravioli with lime beurre blanc, basil and coriander. But more recently, our sauvignon vine smoked salmon with horseradish panna cotta and crayfish and caper salsa is wowing a few punters also. What is your favourite comfort food? My favourite comfort food is wonton soup with chili oil from my local take away shop. It is very tasty, I get a night off cooking and best of all, there are no dishes afterwards.
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Osteria Del Toro 60 Tory St, Wellington Tel: +64 4 381 2299 www.osteriadeltoro.co.nz This Mediterranean restaurant and bar has an inviting and lively atmosphere, which is accentuated by its modern décor and comfy lounges. The food isn’t too bad either, with a wide range of pizza, pasta and paella, as well as other tantisilingly tasty treats such as the Tunisian fish stew, which is fragrant with cumin, tomato and chili or the grilled chicken with rosemary, thyme, garlic and sautéed watercress. w
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Monsoon Poon 12 Blair Street, Wellington Tel: +64 4 803 3555 www.monsoonpoon.co.nz The oriental and vibrant décor at Monsoon Poon is perfectly suited to the exotic flavours of India, south China, Thailand, Vietnam, Malaysia, the Philippines and Indonesia, which are all represented on one menu. Start your meal with some spicy chilli and lemongrass cashew nuts, and then work your way through the extensive main menu – it may take a while.
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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 a traditional public house, offering the best in New Zealand food and drink. Highly acclaimed, The Tasting Room is the four-time winner of The Wild Food Challenge – New Zealand’s longest running food competition. The 2009 Lonely Planet guide voted our Beef Wellington, matched with a pint 34452_2
of black beer, as one of the “Top Ten Eating Experiences in New Zealand”. Situated at the end of busy Courtenay Place, The Tasting Room is a true Wellington institution, renowned for offering the best in New Zealand game food and craft beer. Come in anytime to enjoy a drink at the bar with a tasting plate or some tantalising food in the restaurant.
Set in the historic Henry Pollen House, acclaimed Wellington local, The General Practitioner, offers the best in New Zealand craft beer, wine and fare. National winner of The Wild Food Challenge, The General Practitioner is celebrated for its culinary flair – using locally sourced goods to produce a stunning selection of gastropub dishes. Our famous pub menu is 00000_0 34451_2
written daily, allowing us to carefully select the best ingredients available. This corner pub with a difference is the ideal spot for people watching with a beer or wine, over lunch or dinner. Join us soon at The General Practitioner for a dose of fine ales and healthy socialising. Opening hours: Open 7 days, 11.00am until late
Fratelli translates as brothers, a fitting name for one of Wellingtonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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: Mon - Sat from 5.30pm
The restaurant is located on Blair Street in the heart of Wellingtonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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. 34308_1
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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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ONE RED DOG
SHED 5
Steamship Wharf Building, 57 Customhouse Quay, North Queens Wharf, Wellington Tel: +64 4 918 4723 Fax: +64 4 918 4725 Email: onereddog@xtra.co.nz Web: www.onereddog@xtra.co.nz
Queens Wharf Lambton Harbour, Wellington, New Zealand Tel: +64 4 499 9069 Web: www.shed5.co.nz
One Red Dog has been pioneering great pizza in Wellington since the early 90s and is also known for its antipasto platters, which present a wide variety of tasty savoury treats. With One Red Dog’s friendly and casual atmosphere, you can enjoy the amazing afternoon sun, or take in the harbour view while trying some inspired gourmet pizza, 34586_1
delicious pastas, or a light salad, all matched with great wine and locally brewed beer from the fully stocked bar.
Opening hours: Mon - Sun 11.00am until late
A water’s edge position and an in-house fishmonger who selects fresh fish from the markets early each morning contribute to Shed 5’s standing as one of Wellington’s premier seafood restaurants. When the sun is shining, Shed 5’s dining area expands to include an outdoor deck, which incorporates magnificent views of Wellington’s 34556_2
inner harbour. From a la carte dining, to a snack in the sun with a beer poured from the tap, Shed 5 can accommodate all your tastes.
PRAVDA
THE FLYING BURRITO BROTHERS CANTINA AND TEQUILERIA
107 Customhouse Quay Wellington 6011, New Zealand Tel: +64 4 801 8858 Web: www.pravdacafe.co.nz
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Opening hours: Weekdays 7.30am to 11.00pm, Sat 9.00am to 11.00pm
Tasty Tequila, Flying Burritos, Chocolate Chasing Maidens, Winged Horses and Smoking Guns sum up the fun around what The Flying Burrito Brothers Cantina and Tequileria is really about! Seriously though, we are a contemporary Mexican themed restaurant. Our maxim is genuine fresh Mex with the emphasis on 34571_3
fresh green vegetables, well chosen cuts of meat, poultry and seafood accompanied with inventive chilli and herb flavours. An authentic fresh take on Mexican cuisine. Salud! Opening hours: Mon -Sun 5.00pm until late
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The menu includes classic European dishes, as well as freshly roasted coffee and international wines.
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Set in the heart of the city amongst the hustle and bustle of share traders, commuters and visitors to the Lambton shopping precinct, is this modern bistro. With towering vaulted ceilings and hanging crystal chandeliers, Pravda combines the simplicity of an Italian cafĂŠ with the relaxed informality of casual dining.
Corner of Cuba Street and Vivian Street Tel: +64 4-385-8811 Fax: +64 4-385-6567 Email: fbb.wellington@yahoo.com.au Web: www.flyingburritobrothers.co.nz
Siobhan Argent and Jennie Miller are delighted to find Wellington’s charisma, arty culture and penchant for all things intriguing are infused in its nightlife. © Hawthorn Lounge
© Betty’s Bar
© Hummingbird
Hummingbird 22 Courtenay Place, Wellington Tel: +64 4 801 6336 www.hummingbird.net.nz
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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.
Hawthorn Lounge 82 Tory Street, Wellington Tel: +64 4 890 3724 www.hawthornlounge.co.nz
Matterhorn 106 Cuba Street, Wellington Tel: +64 4 384 8918 www.matterhorn.co.nz
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.
The Matterhorn has come a long way since its humble beginnings in 1963 as a purpose built café. It has had several owners, who have given it various incarnations, but today it stands as a popular bar and holder of several prestigious awards, including ‘best bar in Wellington’. The wooden floors and a spacious main room accentuate an inviting courtyard and a tempting range of beers and cocktails, so don’t miss out on your opportunity to experience Matterhorn.
Concrete Bar and Restaurant Cable Car Lane, Lambton Quay, Wellington Tel: +64 4 473 7427 www.concretebar.co.nz 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.
Bettys Bar 32 Blair Street, Wellington Tel: +64 4 803 3766 www.bettys.net.nz With its own integrated digital art space, which promotes local artists, photographers, filmmakers and illustrators, Bettys Bar is one of Wellington’s most intriguing entertainment venues. Enjoy a cocktail, while immersing yourself in a fusion of technology, innovation and cutting edge sophistication.
The Good Luck Bar 126 Cuba Street, Wellington Tel: +64 4 801 9950 Drinking venues don’t get much trendier than the Good Luck Bar, which is tucked away in a dimly lit Cuba Mall basement. The décor here is an Oriental-styled outfit complete with lanterns and wooden furnishings reminiscent of an early 20th century opium den. Sample the Cambodian inspired food menu or make your way through the equally delicious cocktail list.
Sandwiches 8 Kent Terrace, Wellington Tel: +64 4 385 7698 www.sandwiches.co.nz
Alice Forresters Lane, Wellington Tel: +64 4 385 2242 www.whiterabbit.co.nz Paying homage to the whimsical fantasy of Alice in Wonderland, this bar features pictures of Alice on the 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.
Red Square 28 Blair Street, Wellington Tel: +64 4 802 4244 www.redsquare.co.nz 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.
3C Bar Corner of Victoria Street and Chews Lane Tel: + 64 04 913 1224 www.3cbar.co.nz If you’re looking for a relaxed atmosphere in which to catch up with some friends over a drink, then this is the place to come. There is an extensive beer, wine and cocktail list, which boasts both old and new world flavours and styles sourced locally and from abroad. 3C also serves lunch and dinner, so there is no chance of going hungry while you’re here.
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. At the front of the bar is the Pan De Muerto Mexican café where you can grab a bite to eat before your big night out!
Duke Carvell’s Number 6 Swan Lane Emporium 6 Swan Lane, Wellington Tel: +64 4 385 2240 www.dukecarvell.co.nz
After Dark
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Enter into the curious world of Duke Carvell’s bar and café and you will be taken by your tastebuds on a journey through the Mediterranean, as the food and wine menus are said to reflect the regions the Duke traversed. The courtyard out the back is also open any time of the day or night for an alfresco meal. w
South
Discover what many a film crew and travellers before you have – New Zealand’s South Island invokes a dream. The diverse and dramatic landscape provides a visual getaway from the mundane, with places like the snow-capped Southern Alps, mystical Milford Sound, Queenstown’s Remarkables Range or the quaint town life, vineyards and picturesque flat plains that sprawl across the island. Then there are the ever-hospitable locals, who are just waiting tell you about all the potential adventures that await you in this fairy-tale land...
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Eglinton River, Fiordland National Park. Š Ben Erksine
Event calendar Arrowtown Autumn Festival 29 April to 8 May 2011 Once a thriving gold mining centre, Arrowtown reflects the character of this region’s rich heritage. Held over 10 days, the 27th 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 Tel: +64 27 210 1570 www.arrowtownautumnfestival.org.nz
© Arrowtown Autumn Festival
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French Fest Akaroa 28 to 29 October 2011 Celebrate Akaroa’s French heritage at the biennial French Fest, which highlights the best of the culture with cooking classes, gourmet food and wine stalls, live entertainment, games, competitions and a re-enactment of the first French landing here in the 19th century. Location: Various venues throughout Akaroa Tel: +64 3 941 8349 www.frenchfest.co.nz
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© Speight’s Coast to Coast
Speight’s Coast to Coast 10 to 11 February 2012 Spanning from the South Island’s west coast to its east coast, this is one of the country’s longest sporting events. Competitors will cross the 243 kilometres on bike, foot and kayak. All entrants must qualify prior to the race, but whether you’re competing or spectating – this event is not for the faint-hearted! Location: Kumara to Sumner Tel: +64 3 348 3282 www.coasttocoast.co.nz
Hokitika Wildfoods Festival 9 to 10 March 2012 Join 15,000 taste adventurists for the biggest event on the Hokitika calendar – the Wildfoods Festival, where weird and wonderful culinary creations come out to play. Menu favourites have included venison chilli, sea cucumber, huhu grubs and even horse semen shots! There is also live entertainment and market stalls. Location: Hokitika, West Coast Tel: +64 3 756 9048 www.wildfoods.co.nz
South Island 2011/2012 Queenstown Winter Festival 24 June to 3 July 2011 The Queenstown Winter Festival celebrates 37 years of recreation and relaxation on the South Island slopes. Night skiing, live concerts and street parades illustrate the beauty and the spirit of Queenstown’s locals and the magnificent surrounding landscape. Location: Various locations throughout Queenstown Tel: +64 3 441 2453 www.winterfestival.co.nz
Otago Festival of the Arts October 2012 This biennial boutique festival concentrates on a range of quality artistic acts including dance, music, circus, comedy and street art, which all fit in well with Dunedin’s old Victorian and Edwardian architecture. Past performers have included Dame Kiri Te Kanawa, The Kransky Sisters and David Helfgott. Location: Various Dunedin venues Tel: + 64 3 477 7600 www.otagofestival.co.nz
World Buskers Festival 19 to 29 January 2012 For 18 years, the pavements of Christchurch have sprung to life during the annual World Buskers Festival. Some of the best street artists from around the world amuse, bewilder and captivate crowds with their unique street theatre skills, stand-up comedy, acrobatics, contortionism and crazy stunts. Location: Various Christchurch locations Tel: +64 3 377 2365 www.worldbuskersfestival.com
South Island
Festival of Cycling 3 to 4 December 2011 This iconic series of cycling events challenges competitive sportspeople and recreational riders alike, providing the perfect opportunity to get active and enjoy the natural beauty of Canterbury’s countryside. Location: Various locations throughout Christchurch Tel: +64 27 292 5464 www.festivalofcycling.co.nz
© Queenstown Winter Festival
© World Buskers Festival
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New Zealand International Film Festival Dunedin 4 to 21 August, Christchurch 12 to 28 August 2011 Support New Zealand’s film industry by enjoying a classic or contemporary feature film at the country’s international film festival. This distinguished, not-for-profit event attracts thousands of visitors to a range of cinematic experiences each year. Location: Various South Island venues Tel: +64 4 385 0162 www.nzff.co.nz
Must do’s
South Island
Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools 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 0000 www.hanmersprings.co.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. Address: Glenorchy, 40 kilometres from Queenstown Tel: +64 275 226 966 www.trout-stalkers.co.nz
Up Up and Away 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
Otago Museum The Otago Museum is one of Dunedin’s most visited attractions and will certainly inspire you. 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
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 a highly trained crew that ensure you get the most out of this truly remarkable place. Address: Main Wharf, Akaroa Tel: +64 3 304 7641 www.swimmingwithdolphins.co.nz
Abel Tasman National Park 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 take a boat tour through the area 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
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© Hanmer Springs
Hector’s dolphin, Akaroa. © Black Cat Cruises
Arthur’s Pass Situated between Canterbury and the West Coast, it’s not so much the destination, but the journey to and what lies beyond Arthur’s Pass that are a must. The drive or train journey is amazing. You’ll pass through Canterbury’s vast plains, twist and turn through valleys and past mountains. There is also the Arthur’s Pass National Park on the town’s doorstep, which is full of steep gorges and snaking rivers, beech forests and rainforests to admire. www.arthurspass.com Milford Sound Step into a world where giant mountains stand tall out of the sea, where mist blankets thick forest and where gushing waterfalls burst out of low hanging clouds, which have attached themselves to sheer cliffs – welcome to Milford Sound. Take a boat cruise through this natural wonder or, for an even closer account, a sea kayak. Real Journeys offers a range of tours and transfers throughout Milford Sound. Address: Corner Town Centre and Mokonui Streets, Te Anau Tel: +64 3 249 7416 www.realjourneys.co.nz Heli-Skiing 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: + 64 3 451 0001 or 0800 FLY ALPINE (359 257) www.alpinechoppers.co.nz
WAIPARA VALLEY 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 pinot, riesling, chardonnay and sauvignon wines, derived from award-winning wineries such as Pegasus Bay and Mount Cass. 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 WHITEWATER RAFTING 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
Balloon Adventures Up Up And Away Ltd Ph: +64 3 381 4600 Email: info@ballooning.co.nz
WWW.BALLOONING.CO.NZ
MOUNT COOK GLACIER EXPLORERS Get up close and personal with New Zealand’s largest glacier located at Aoraki Mount Cook National Park. Here you will have the opportunity to experience the Tasman Glacier, which is permanently covered in snow and glacial ice, from its closest vantage point and even touch the 500-year-old glacial ice. Address: Aoraki Mount Cook National Park Tel: +64 3 435 1641 www.glacierexplorers.com CADBURY WORLD One of New Zealand’s 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 full tour will take roughly 75 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
THE LORD OF THE RINGS TOUR 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, while learning 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 STEWART ISLAND With 85 percent of the island covered by the Rakiura National Park, it’s no wonder that life here is a little more laid-back and chilled out. Unspoilt natural beauty oozes from every corner of the island where fishing, walking, diving, kayaking or just lazing about with a book are the preferred pastimes. The island is also one of the few places you can still see a kiwi in the wild. Fly over or take the one-hour ferry ride from Bluff, on the mainland. w www.stewartisland.co.nz
Welcome to
Marlborough and Nelson Nicole Haddow and Jennie Miller discover why the Marlborough and Nelson regions have always been favourite spots for Kiwis keen on some rest and relaxation.
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he Marlborough and Nelson regions at the very top of the South Island enjoy their reputation as the country’s sunniest spots. And you will also enjoy the abundance of sunshine here, as it creates the perfect backdrop to explore the national parks, beaches, lakes, forests, rivers, vineyards and quirky towns of the area. 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 glistening white snow-capped mountains, while out of the other you’ll observe inviting royal blue waters.
If you’re approaching the area via the ferry from the North Island over the Cook Strait, your first impressions will be of an enchanting and almost fairy-tale like setting, as the green hills and mountains by the water here peer over valleys that double as ocean inlets and look like scenes from a mythical land. Marlborough has always been a popular holiday destination for Kiwis, particularly for those with bachs (Kiwi holiday houses, pronounced ‘batches’), which are hidden throughout the lush forest. It has been only recently that the area has become internationally renowned, however, as it metaphorically poured onto the world map
Welcome to
Marlborough and Nelson Nicole Haddow and Jennie Miller discover why the Marlborough and Nelson regions have always been favourite spots for Kiwis keen on some rest and relaxation.
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he Marlborough and Nelson regions at the very top of the South Island enjoy their reputation as the country’s sunniest spots. And you will also enjoy the abundance of sunshine here, as it creates the perfect backdrop to explore the national parks, beaches, lakes, forests, rivers, vineyards and quirky towns of the area. 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 glistening white snow-capped mountains, while out of the other you’ll observe inviting royal blue waters.
If you’re approaching the area via the ferry from the North Island over the Cook Strait, your first impressions will be of an enchanting and almost fairy-tale like setting, as the green hills and mountains by the water here peer over valleys that double as ocean inlets and look like scenes from a mythical land. Marlborough has always been a popular holiday destination for Kiwis, particularly for those with bachs (Kiwi holiday houses, pronounced ‘batches’), which are hidden throughout the lush forest. It has been only recently that the area has become internationally renowned, however, as it metaphorically poured onto the world map
Welcome to
the West Coast
Nyssa Veraphunt discovers the enchanting ruggedness and untouched beauty of New Zealand’s wild West Coast.
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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 here in 1864 near the Taramakau River, making Europeans the next big influx of fortune seekers. After that it was the coal miners and loggers. Today, while the search for tangible treasures has subsided, just as many visitors are still enticed to the area 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 its character 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 32,000 ‘Coasters’ who live in the region have their own unique spirit that adds to the West Coast experience. The character of the West Coast is typified in its annual Wildfoods Festival. Each March, folk from all around the country descend on Hokitika, which quadruples its population to 16,000 for the 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 previous food stall favourites including 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! Coasters have also been innovative in devising ways to experience the West Coast from all 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 helicopter flights over some of New Zealand’s most remote landscapes and demanding rivers. If you’re a nature enthusiast, there are the specially constructed viewing platforms at Cape Foulwind, where you can watch fur seals in their natural habitat. Or you could join a boat tour to travel further down the coast to Jackson’s Bay to watch Hector’s dolphins and Fiordland crested penguins blissfully enjoying their 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 resemble 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. 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. This site is also home to the Fox and Franz Josef Glaciers, which nestle like frozen white streams in the mountains and are a ‘must see’ of the region, whether it be on foot or from 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 the time to savour the moment and indulge in local delicacies of a whitebait patty and glass of Monteith’s beer, while you watch the sun fade into the Tasman Sea. w
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Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park. Š Ben Erksine
WHICH ISLAND
There are countless picnic spots and hiking trails from which to enjoy the regionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s beauty first-hand, and then there are the remarkable, one-ofa-kind spots that you will not find anywhere else on earth.
Welcome to
Christchurch andCanterbury Canterbury local Emily Parker takes us on a personal tour through the old-world charm, quaint grandeur and shaky history of her hometown…
Akaroa. © Ben Erksine
This article was written only a couple of weeks prior to the devastating Christchurch earthquake on 22 February 2011, which felled much of the city and took many lives. Fortunately our writer, Emily Parker and her family escaped unscathed. Our hearts go out to the city and its people, who are slowly recovering and rebuilding. At the time of print, the Christchurch attractions mentioned in this article are still standing, but remained closed until further notice. Please check with www.christchurchnz.com for updates on the area.
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ith its grand architecture, plethora of Heritagelisted buildings and equally impressive parklands, Christchurch has always been famous for its old English feel. It now, however, boasts a newfound reputation for its arts, crafts, cuisine and, even more recently, as the country’s most shaken city, having been literally rocked to the core by a series of earthquakes, the biggest of which remains the September 2010 earthquake, which measured 7.1 on the Richter scale (and since then, the 22 February 2011 6.3 magnitude quake). Although the architecture in the city has a somewhat fragmented feel to it (several of the famous structures and spires were toppled), the city’s character fortunately remains all but unchanged and, if anything, the
community has become enhanced by the sudden camaraderie that the unexpected can render. Part of this charm is Christchurch’s expansive diversity – it has to be the only city in New Zealand where you can surf, snowboard and go deep sea fishing in the same day. It also has a cosmopolitan feel to it, with a constant influx of international shows mixed with local attractions. One such drawcard is the local tram, which offers a guided tour of the city’s highlights, including the bustling Arts Centre, where you can shop for an array of local Kiwi souvenirs from hand-knit merino sweaters to lovingly crafted silver jewellery. If you’re here on the weekend, wander down to the year-round Arts Centre Market, where you’ll find local arts and crafts and be able to sample international cuisine such as Lebanese bread, freshly cooked Spanish paella or traditional bratwurst. Just across the road, the award-winning Christchurch Art Gallery houses a collection of New Zealand’s finest art, sculpture and photography. Then 20 paces up the street is the Canterbury Museum, which serves as a tribute to bygone days, as well as the weird and wonderful. When the sun is shining, there is no better place to head than the beaches of Sumner, just 13 kilometres out of Christchurch, where golden sands meet craggy cliffs,
along the TranzAlpine railway through this striking, mountainous region, which is especially beautiful in winter when the mountains and forests you pass are snow-capped. The line runs directly through to the West Coast town of Greymouth, a great base to begin your journey of Westland’s temperate rain forests, canyoned rivers, rolling mountains and huge glaciers. Alternatively, head east and discover the Banks Peninsula region, a large, rugged area, riddled with coves and bays offering spectacular views, hidden beaches and winding roads. The French settlers’ township of Akaroa is a favourite stop made famous for fresh fish and chips, unique cheeses and old architecture – it feels more like a European village than a rural New Zealand town and is a wonderful getaway from the bustling city. While in Canterbury, don’t miss the hot, dry plains of the wine country north of the city, of which Waipara Valley is a highlight. From here you can explore award-winning wineries and natural amphitheatre grounds where many
It feels more like a European village than a rural New Zealand town and is a wonderful getaway from the bustling city. summer concerts are held. Close by is Hanmer Springs, a quaint town settled on the site of thermal hot pools, in which you can soak or indulge in spa treatments. Further north, take the famous coastline-gripping road, which opens up to views of dramatic surf breaks and basking southern fur seals to Kaikoura. Stop at the roadside trailer Cay’s Crays to sample freshly caught crayfish – a staple food of the indigenous Maori tribes of this region (Kaikoura literally means ‘meal of crayfish’ in Maori). Once a sleepy fishing village, Kaikoura now boasts an international reputation as the place to see sperm whales and also as the spot for some of the best fishing in the country. Without doubt, the Canterbury region is historic New Zealand at its finest. An unmissable experience of old-world charm and new-world adventure set against the breathtaking backdrop of snow-capped mountains and crisp coastline – here is where it all began and here (however earthquake shaken) is where it will remain. w
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looking out to sea and providing a popular spot to enjoy a refreshing dip or a surf (if the swell is obliging). From here, you can drive or walk over the winding narrow road to Taylor’s Mistake – so named when Captain Taylor mistakenly entered this small bay thinking it was the deep port of Lyttelton. Here, tiny Kiwi ‘bachs’ cling to the cliffs, shaded by tall pines. Originally built for bachelors as holiday getaways after WW Ⅱ, they serve as local summer houses and, although often very basic, they are an iconic part of New Zealand culture and a tribute to the national love of the ocean and coastline. Follow the roads out west of Christchurch to the foothills of the Southern Alps, just over an hour’s drive from the city, and you can soon be sliding down some of the South Island’s best ski fields (during the winter months of June to September). Mount Hutt offers snow-filled fun for all the family and the Porters ski field nearby sits in the beautiful Porters Pass, the gateway to Westland and beyond. A unique journey can be made
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CHRISTCHURCH MAP
Map courtesy Hema Maps NZ
Shopping
inChristchurch andCanterbury After a selection of the best local and international products and produce in and around town? Mary Erskine recommends some of the premier shopping outlets in Christchurch and Canterbury.
Shopping bag one:
WESTFIELD RICCARTON SHOPPING CENTRE 129 Riccarton Road, Riccarton, Christchurch Tel: +64 3 983 4500 www.westfield.co.nz/riccarton Westfield Riccarton Shopping Centre is a fantastic spot to find all of the latest men 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.
Shopping bag three:
BALLANTYNES City Mall, Christchurch Tel: +64 3 379 7400 www.ballantynes.com 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. At the time of print Ballantynes remained closed after the 22 February 2011 Christchurch earthquake, but maintained it would open for business when it could. Check website for updated opening dates.
© Mhor
Shopping bag four:
MHOR Shop 3, 30 Conical Hill Road, Hanmer Springs Tel: +64 3 315 7705 www.visithanmersprings.co.nz Top off a relaxing soak in the Hanmer pools with a spot of shopping at Mhor for some contemporary men’s and women’s fashions. Presented in a stylish and welcoming environment, Mhor has an experienced and dedicated team ready to help you with all your fashion needs. Their stocklist includes international brands such as Ben Sherman, Diesel and Mesop, as well as a wide range of Kiwi designers including Jetblonde, Loobie’s Story and Christchurch designed and made fashion label ArtStyle.
Shopping bag five:
BARRY’S BAY TRADITIONAL CHEESE Main Road 5801 State Highway, 75 RD 2 Akaroa Tel: +64 3 304 5809 www.barrysbaycheese.co.nz On your drive from Christchurch to Akaroa, make sure you stop by Barry’s Bay Traditional Cheese, which has a delectable range of cheeses made from the milk of Banks Peninsula’s bountiful and pure pastures, using traditional methods. The cheese range includes European styled cheeses such as Edam and Gouda, as well as flavoured and rinded cheddars. View cheesemaking techniques during the produce season or take home some wine, honey, olive oil or local preserve, which are all available in the shop to complement any cheese purchase. w
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SOEUR 48 St Albans Street, Merivale, Christchurch Tel: +64 3 355 9794 www.soeurdesign.com Sisters of Christchurch are doing it for themselves… well, sisters Maria and Ann are anyway. They have come up with a stylish concept store that focuses on fashion, art, gifts and home décor. Soeur has its own seasonally changing women’s clothing line and the artworks here are original contemporary pieces crafted by local and international emerging and established artists, using a range of materials and methods.
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Shopping bag two:
Dining
inChristchurch andCanterbury Christchurch and Canterbury offer a buffet – not only of New Zealand’s finest cuisine, but also of international fare, making it difficult to choose where to eat. Mary Erskine helps steer you in the right direction by revealing some of her favourite haunts.
© Panorama Restaurant
in which to enjoy some of Christchurch’s finest contemporary cuisine. As the name suggests, the restaurant affords views of Kaikainui Lake, as well as the resort’s golf course. The Sprig Bar next door is a good location for a pre- or post-dinner drink. ROSSENDALE RESTAURANT AND WINERY 122 Old Tai Tapu Road, Halswell, Christchurch Tel: +64 3 322 7780 www.rossendale.co.nz If you’re looking to escape the city for a meal somewhere a little more laid back, you’ve come to the right place. Set against the magnificent backdrop of the winery’s gardens, here you can enjoy a meal indoors or outdoors over a glass of Rossendale boutique wine. The speciality of the restaurant is its highly prized beef, which comes straight from the Rossendale farm and this is the only place in New Zealand where you’ll find it.
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PEGASUS BAY WINERY AND RESTAURANT Stockgrove Road, Waipara North of Christchurch Tel: +64 3 314 6869 www.pegasusbay.com With a list of accolades, including the ‘2010 winery restaurant of the year’ (Cuisine magazine), it’s hard to go past Pegasus Bay. And with a winery as the backdrop, it’s no wonder also that the focus here is on having an all-round experience of quality food and wine, with the perfect drop suggested with each meal. Chef Oliver Jackson pays particular attention to fresh produce, constantly changing the menu, as well as sourcing ingredients from the restaurant’s very own kitchen garden. THE LAKES RESTAURANT Clearwater Avenue, Harewood, Christchurch Tel: +64 3 360 1000 www.peppers.co.nz/clearwater/dining Situated at the Peppers Clearwater Resort, The Lakes Restaurant offers a relaxing and enjoyable location
ISOBEL’S RESTAURANT 1 Conical Hill Road, Hanmer Springs Tel: +64 3 315 0060 www.heritagehotels.co.nz/hanmer-springs Isobel’s is situated in Hanmer’s Heritage landmark 1932 Spanish-designed hotel. Enjoy an open fire in winter, alfresco dining in the warmer months and the bar lounge all year round, complete with its baby grand piano. The menu features Waipara wines, Pacific cuisine and local produce. Try the Lovatt Downs venison served with roast portobello mushrooms, Kikorangi blue cheese, blackcurrant and a pinot jus – delightful. SHUZAN State Highway 7, Lewis Pass, Maruia Springs Tel: +64 3 523 8840 www.maruiasprings.co.nz Situated a lovely two-and-a-half-hour drive from Christchurch in the heart of the Southern Alps and forests of Lewis Pass, lies Maruia Springs, a Japanese inspired resort, complete with hot springs, accommodation, spa and Shuzan, a cosy Asian and European fusion restaurant. The traditional Japanese hot pot or Italian risotto coupled with the ambience of the open log fire and mountain backdrop will warm you through and through.
VANGIONIS TRATTORIA AND BAR 40F Rue Lavaud, Akaroa Tel: +64 3 304 7714 www.vangionis.co.nz For a mix of Mediterranean dining and atmosphere in Akaroa, this is the spot to visit. You’ll find a daily changing menu, which encompasses Spanish tapas, extensive Italian gourmet pizzas, fresh local seafood and herbs straight from the Vangionis garden. There is an open kitchen, outdoor seating and restaurant views over the Akaroa Village Green, the foreshore and hills beyond. MA MAISON RESTAURANT AND BAR 2 Rue Jolie, Akaroa Tel: +64 3 304 7668 www.mamaison.co.nz With views of Dailey’s wharf, the Akaroa Harbour and Banks Peninsula, you could easily come here for the vistas alone! But we wouldn’t want you to miss out on the delicious French-based menu, which features local produce, such as the Canterbury lamb fillet, served on a crusted eggplant fromage. After your meal, enjoy a coffee by the open fire or a cocktail on the terrace.
© Pegasus Bay
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PANORAMA RESTAURANT The Hermitage, Alpine Village, Aoraki Mount Cook Tel: +64 3 435 1809 www.hermitage.co.nz Enjoy the magnificent views of New Zealand’s highest peak, the perennially snow-capped Aoraki Mount Cook, while you dine. Renowned as one of New Zealand’s best restaurants, Panorama serves up fresh local ingredients to suit the varied palates of its international guests – try the citrus crusted Aoraki salmon or seafood stew cooked in star anis and Otago saffron. w
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WAECKERLÉS Grand Hotel, 6 Rue Lavaud, Akaroa Tel: +64 3 304 7011 www.grandhotelakaroa.co.nz For seafood in Akaroa you can’t go past Waeckerlés. Here, you’ll find local, seasonal produce such as crayfish, salmon, scallops and whitebait cooked to perfection. Local specialities off the land such as pork, lamb and beef are available too.
Welcome to
Queenstown
Queenstown may be one of New Zealand’s most picturesque destinations, but, as Gemma Peckham reveals, its bevy of activities and pastimes ensures that it is more than just a town with a pretty face.
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Q
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 itself 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 adrenaline-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 adrenaline junkie’s delight, offering endless opportunities to get your heart rate up. Queenstown was in fact the site of 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 the nearby 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, 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 views of it 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 its deck. 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 (to which Queenstown belongs) is blessed with over 170 vineyards and even more 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.
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. 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 at Earnslaw Park near Steamer Wharf, there is a market bursting with local works that reflect the colour and character of the place. If you’ve decided to get away from it all, but can’t choose 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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Queenstown. © Ben Erskine
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Locations & Reservations AUCKLAND Ph (09) 377 0773 WELLINGTON Ph (04) 387 4600 SOUTH ISLAND Ph 0800 789 789 (Christchurch, Queenstown, Dunedin) AUCKLAND • WELLINGTON • CHRISTCHURCH • QUEENSTOWN • DUNEDIN www.corporatecabs.co.nz
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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
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(head chef) 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. Complimentary transport from central Queenstown by arrangement. Opening hours: Open 7 days, 6.00pm 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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GANTLEYS RESTAURANT
Shopping
in Queenstown
Jacklyn Lloyd discovers some of Queenstown’s uniquely Kiwi shopping destinations.
Shopping bag one:
OUTSIDE SPORTS 36-38 Shotover Street, Queenstown Tel: +64 3 441 0074 www.outsidesports.co.nz 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 adrenaline, 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.
Shopping bag two:
POUNAMU PEARLS 41 Beach Street, Queenstown Tel: +64 3 442 9611 www.southseapearls.co.nz Pounamu Pearls, located in the centre of Queenstown, stocks a range of jewellery, including Blue Pearls, which are deemed New Zealand’s rarest of pearls. Also known as Paua or ‘Halitosis Iris’, the colourful host shell of the pearl 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. For a stunning keepsake of your holiday to New Zealand, a Blue Pearl will leave you forever nostalgic about your visit to Queenstown – a city that is hardly forgettable.
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Shopping bag three:
IVAN CLARKE GALLERY The Forge Building, 35 Camp Street, Queenstown Tel: +64 3 442 5232 www.ivanclarkegallery.com If you’re the kind of shopper who likes to invest in collectable pieces of art, the Ivan Clarke Gallery has an entrancing 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, Clarke today sees his art showcased on everything from surfboards to billboards, and even highrise buildings.
© Ivan Clarke Gallery
Shopping bag four:
ANGEL DIVINE 3 Searle Lane, Queenstown Tel: +64 3 442 8988 www.angeldivine.co.nz 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 fashions for both women and men. The Angel Divine boutique makes perusing designer garments an elegant and gratifying experience.
Shopping bag five:
PARTRIDGE JEWELLERS Corner Rees and Beach Streets, Quenstown Tel: + 64 3 441 8845 www.partridgejewellers.com With an extensive range of jewellery to choose from, Partridges is certainly the place to visit if you are in the market for diamonds, precious gems, pearls, gold or platinum. For something a little personalised or completely unique, there are also fully qualified craftsmen on hand ready to turn your ideas into reality! w
Shotover Jet Beach Gorge Road, Arthurs Point, Queenstown Tel: +64 3 442 8570 Free Phone (within NZ only): 0800 746 868 Email: reservations@shotoverjet.co.nz Web: www.shotoverjet.com
Queenstown’s Dart River Jet Safaris experiences are unique combinations of breathtaking World Heritage scenery, exhilarating wilderness jet-boating, Maori heritage and inspiring adventure – truly authentic discoveries of everything that makes New Zealand an exceptional destination. 34114_2
Join us, the only operator on the Dart River, for a diverse adventure travelling deep into the pristine Dart River Valley and spectacular Mount Aspiring National Park. Here you’ll explore little known areas inaccessible by other means and discover a unique and dramatic environment rich in both natural and cultural heritage and legend.
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 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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SHOTOVER JET
Queenstown Information Centre, Corner Camp and Shotover Streets, Queenstown or Dart Visitors Centre, Mull Street, Glenorchy Tel: +64 3 442 9992, Free Phone (within NZ only): 0800 327 853 Email: reservations@dartriverjetsafaris.co.nz Web: www.dartriverjetsafaris.com
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DART RIVER JET SAFARIS
Dining
in Queenstown
Nyssa Veraphunt is delighted to discover that Queenstown is not only the playground of adventure sports enthusiasts, but also a tasty treasure trove for food buffs looking for their next gastronomical thrill. SKYLINE RESTAURANT Bob’s Peak (at the top of Queenstown Gondola), Queenstown Tel: +64 3 441 0101 www.skyline.co.nz Affording views of Queenstown, The Remarkables and Lake Wakatipu, this buffet restaurant is hard to go past while you’re in town. Regular live entertainment acts and the Skyline Bar offer added attractions. GANTLEY’S Arthur’s Point Road, Queenstown Tel: +64 3 442 8999 www.gantleys.co.nz It’s slightly out of the Queenstown hub, but well worth the effort of seeking out. As you immerse yourself in the beautiful heritage building with a glass of wine you’ll be happy to hunker down in this secluded cul de sac.
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PRIME 2 Rees Street (or lakeside, opposite the jetty), Queenstown Tel: + 64 3 442 5288 www.primerestaurant.co.nz This is the perfect spot to visit if you’ve got a hankering for New Zealand style steak or seafood. And, if you can’t decide, you can even combine the two, with the ‘Surf and Turf’ (Angus ribeye with tiger prawn skewers). Situated on the shores of Queenstown Bay, the restaurant also offers a relaxing ambience from which you can watch the world go by. WAI WATERFRONT RESTAURANT Ground Floor, Steamer Wharf, Beach Street, Queenstown Tel: +64 3 442 5969 www.wai.net.nz You’d be hard pressed to find another fine dining restaurant of this quality in the world, let alone Queenstown. Here, pride is taken in producing all dishes from scratch – even the stocks, sauces, pasta, pastries and ice-creams are made on the premises. The chef ’s degustation is a must and an experience of unparalleled pleasure!
THE BUNKER Cow Lane, Queenstown Tel: +64 3 441 8030 www.thebunker.co.nz Dim lighting, leather chairs, wooden décor and a warm fireplace… you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a scene from a James Bond movie. Fortunately, there is more than just martinis on the menu (although the cocktail bar does offer several to choose from), with a hearty arrangement of game, red meats and local delicacies. WINNIE’S 7-9 The Mall, Queenstown Tel: +64 3 442 8635 www.winnies.co.nz While there is steak, pasta and other mains on offer, pizza is what has made Winnie’s a Queenstown institution. You’ll find more than just your standard toppings here with an ever-evolving pizza list, but as for the moment, you can’t go by the chicken, cranberry and brie pizza or the Kiwi roast pizza complete with gravy and mint sauce. BOTSWANA BUTCHERY Archers Cottage, 17 Marine Parade, Queenstown Tel: +64 3 442 6994 www.goodbars.co.nz The contemporary fitout here is matched by an equally modern menu, which features delightful fusion dishes such as duck liver parfait with brioche, feijoa tea jelly and apple chutney, as well as sticky duck leg with bok choy and lentil salad. FISHBONE BAR AND GRILL 7 Beach Street, Queenstown Tel: +64 3 442 6768 www.fishbonequeenstown.co.nz As the name would suggest, this is the place to come for seafood. A testament to Fishbone’s esteemed focus on serving up the freshest available produce is that the menu doesn’t just change with the seasons – it changes with the tides and what’s been caught in the morning!
Scott Wyper
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© Pier 19
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PIER 19 Steamer Wharf, Beach Street, Queenstown Tel: +64 3 442 4006 www.pier19.co.nz Head chef Scott Wyper has devised a comprehensive contemporary menu, which includes local and international favourites. Pier 19 boasts an inviting atmosphere all year round, with alfresco dining alongside the Steamer Wharf waterfront available in the warmer months and cosy indoor seating when it’s too cold for the outdoors. w
HEAD CHEF AT PIER 19 You’ve worked in various restaurants around the world, how do you view Queenstown’s dining scene? With around 150 places to eat between Queenstown and Arrowtown, as well as all of the local wineries, you simply have to offer good food in this town, which keeps everyone on their toes, from the fast food joints right up to the fine dining restaurants. With so much competition you’ve got to move with the times and the seasons. What is your favourite local ingredient to cook with? I love the wild venison caught and hung for a few days, then delivered to us straight off the butchers knife. How would you describe Kiwi cuisine? Homestyle, hearty, local. The good thing about Kiwi cuisine is that its not stuck in its ways. It takes influence from Europe, the Americas, and Asia, which gives us a pretty good repertoire. And who can resist Kiwi delicacies such as Bluff oysters, whitebait, crayfish, green lipped mussels and paua? What is your signature dish? I wouldn’t say I have a one signature dish, but I like to try and put my stamp on everything I cook. But one dish that I created here at Pier 19, which has been a great success, is our pan roasted Southland venison with flash fried wild mushroom spaetzle and a blueberry osso buco.
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BELLA CUCINA
WAI WATERFRONT RESTAURANT
6 Brecon Street Queenstown Tel: +64 3 442 6762 Email: eat@bellacucina.co.nz Web: www.bellacucina.co.nz
Ground Floor Steamer Wharf Beach Street, Queenstown Tel: +64 3 442 5969 Email: info@wai.net.nz Web: www.wai.net.nz
Bella Cucina has proudly been serving fine and fresh Italian cuisine in the heart of Queenstown for over two years now. With a daily changing menu and freshly made pasta, bread and pizza dough, you can try something new here night after night, while experiencing the joys of rustic Italian food right on your doorstep. 34605_1
As you enter Bella Cucina, you are instantly warmed by a huge woodfired oven and embraced by the wonderful aromas of Italy. With all of this delectable food, it’s easy to forget about the great selection of Italian and New Zealand wines on offer. Opening hours: Open 7 days 5.00pm until late
Queenstown’s leading fine dining restaurant, Wai Waterfront, has an unrivalled location on the town’s waterfront. Wai is also a truly stunning culinary destination where you will find world-class cuisine and exceptional wines. The kitchen team use the best ingredients New Zealand and Central Otago have to offer. For the ultimate indulgence,
enjoy the chef’s degustation menu prepared daily from carefully sourced local and international produce, then carefully wine matched by the in-house sommelier. As a popular destination restaurant, it is advisable to reserve a table early at Wai to avoid missing out. Opening hours: Open 7 days from 6.00pm until late
THE BALLARAT TRADING CO.
WINNIES
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the Goats Cheese Gnocchi is a great option even if youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re not a vegetarian, and yes they cater for the kids too. Opening hours: Open 7 days from 11am
A Queenstown institution, featuring unparalleled atmosphere and world famous gourmet pizzas. Be welcomed like an old friend and marvel as the restaurant roof magically opens to reveal the clear Queenstown sunlight or a canopy of shining silver stars. Our chef recommends the mouth watering chicken inspired Montonara, the 34569_3
luscious Luigis Italian or the Pescara, complete with the sweetest New Zealand green lipped mussels and heavenly smoked salmon. All tastes are catered for, with gluten free and vegetarian delights a specialty. There truly can only be one Winnies. Opening hours: Open 7 days from noon.
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The Ballarat Trading Co. has the feel of an 1850â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s trading emporium, embracing the colour of old world Queenstown. Its open fires and rich leather booths make you want to stay forever, curled up with a glass of local Pinot Noir. The food is simple favourites in the tradition of a true Gastro Pub. The menu covering a variety of tastes,
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7 -9 The Mall, Queenstown Tel: +64 3 442 8635 Web: www.winnies.co.nz
7-9 The Mall, Queenstown Tel: +64 3 442 4222 Web: www.ballarattradingco.co.nz
Unwind from the day’s adventures with Livia Chan and Jade Jones, as they take you through Queenstown’s best bars, pubs and cocktail lounges. © Ballarat Trading Co.
© Eichardt’s House Bar
© Minus 5 Ice Bar
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BALLARAT TRADING CO. 7-9 The Mall, Queenstown Tel: +64 3 442 4222 www.ballarat.co.nz The Ballarat Trading Co. is a gastro pub with a difference, as is set to a 1850s trading emporium theme. The booths in front of the fire here provide a cosy place to unwind after a day on the slopes, or in summer, sit out in the courtyard over a cool beer.
THE YACHT CLUB Steamer Wharf, Queenstown Tel: +64 3 441 8238 www.tycqueenstown.co.nz 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.
THE WORLD BAR 27 Shotover Street, Queenstown Tel: +64 3 442 6757 www.theworldbar.com 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, The World Bar offers exceptional service, quirky décor and Queenstownfamous cocktails served in teapots.
EICHARDT’S HOUSE BAR Marine Parade, Queenstown Tel: +64 3 441 0450 www.eichardtshotel.co.nz 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.
BLUE DOOR BAR 18 Buckingham Street, Arrowtown Tel: +64 3 442 0885 www.saffronrestaurant.co.nz A 20-minute drive north-east of Queenstown will get you to Arrowtown, where the renowned Blue Door Bar resides next to the award-winning Saffron restaurant. Here, you will find rustic charm and an impressive wine list, as well as a modern and sophisticated crowd, who enjoy a relaxed and leisurely ambience.
SKYBAR 26 Camp Street, Queenstown Tel: +64 3 442 4283 www.goodbars.co.nz Situated above the hustle and bustle of down town Queenstown is the spacious Skybar, where leather lounges, an extensive wine list, bevy of cocktails and plenty of food platters make it the perfect meeting spot for a drink with friends. The walls are decorated with works from local artists in the warmer months and for rest of the year the focal point is the fireplace, which is guaranteed to keep you warm.
After Dark
BARMUDA Searle Lane, Queenstown Tel: +64 3 442 7300 www.goodbars.co.nz 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. w
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Queenstown
BARDEAUX Eureka Arcade, Queenstown Tel: +64 3 442 8284 www.goodbars.co.nz 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.
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MINUS 5 ICE BAR Steamer Wharf, Queenstown Tel: +64 3 442 6050 www.minus5queenstown.co.nz This is literally the coolest bar in town, as everything, from the walls and furniture to the glasses, is all crafted from ice. But don’t worry – if the vodka doesn’t keep you warm, the jackets, gloves and footwear, which are provided, will.
THE SPEIGHT’S ALE HOUSE Corner of Stanley and Ballarat Streets, Queenstown Tel: +64 3 441 3065 www.speightsalehousequeenstown.co.nz Situated in the old 1880 council chamber, complete with wooden floorboards and panelling, this ale house has the look and feel of any good old-fashioned Kiwi pub. Speight’s is one of the oldest beers of the South Island and you can try the entire range here at its freshest – on tap. The outdoor seating provides the perfect spot for a late afternoon drink over a hearty pub meal in the sunshine.
Welcome to
Dunedin
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Jane Kyprios and Tui Thompson venture through fairy-tale landscapes and modern attractions to discover Dunedin has a lot more to offer than its reputation as one of New Zealandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s lesser-known destinations would suggest.
The Octagon. Š Ralf Broskvar
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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. the historic Dunedin Railway Station, where a fantastic farmers’ market is held on a Saturday morning. As you step aboard the beautiful Taieri Gorge train you are allowed 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. While the children sleep off their chocolate overdoses, 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 us advise you about 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. w
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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. 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 all of this, Dunedin is also home to some of the rarest wildlife in the world, such as fur seals, yelloweyed penguins, Hooker’s sea lions and the royal albatross. Nature lovers also descend on Dunedin’s many beaches, which are varied in their charms – Tunnel Beach is secluded, yet striking, while rock climbers and cave enthusiasts flock to Long Beach. St Clair Beach has a cosmopolitan esplanade and Brighton Beach is the spot for swimming and surfing. The natural beauty and stunning views extend far into the mainland, where scenic walks, such as those found around the Otago Peninsula, the Town Belt and Ross Creek, have become popular pastimes due to their idyllic landscape. It would be easy to spend your whole time in Dunedin outdoors, but while you’re here, you must head to the city. The Octagon, a busy gathering place lined with cosmopolitan fashion stores and eateries packed with people-watchers and the most discerning of diners, is the best place to start. From here, take short trip out to the majestic Larnach Castle, which is guarded by stone lions and set among thick, rambling gardens. 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 its elaborately themed rooms, take tea in the opulent dining room, have a drink in the grand ballroom or even stay the night in a surrounding lodge or estate. If you’re a bit of a romantic and the idea of a castle tickles your fancy, just wait until you take the award-winning journey on the Taieri Gorge train. Your day begins at
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Locations & Reservations AUCKLAND Ph (09) 377 0773 WELLINGTON Ph (04) 387 4600 SOUTH ISLAND Ph 0800 789 789 (Christchurch, Queenstown, Dunedin) AUCKLAND • WELLINGTON • CHRISTCHURCH • QUEENSTOWN • DUNEDIN www.corporatecabs.co.nz
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 Amora 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
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HOTEL DIRECTORY
South Island 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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