Welcome To: New Zealand 2012/13 by Niche Media

WELCOME TO NEW ZEALAND 2012/2013

PLEASE DO NOT REMOVE NZ $25incl GST

E V ER Y R OL E X I S M A D E FOR G R E ATNE S S . THE COSMOG R A PH DAY TON A , I N T R O D U C E D I N 19 6 3 , W A S D E S I G N E D T O M E E T T H E D E M A N D S O F PR OFE S S ION A L R ACEC A R D R I V ER S A ND QUI CK LY E A R NED IT S I CONI C STATUS. WITH ITS PATENTED CHRONOGRAPH MECHANISM AND BEZEL WITH TA C H O M E T R I C S C A L E , I T A L L O W S D R I V E R S TO P E R F EC T LY M E A S U R E E L A P S E D C I R C U I T T I M E A N D C A L C U L AT E AV E R A G E S P E E D .

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Contents

WELCOME TO NEW ZEALAND 010 Credits 012

Message from the Prime Minister

014 Message from the Managing Editor

016

Welcome to New Zealand

022 Map of New Zealand 024 Fast Facts 027 Express Yourself 032 Sports and Outdoors 036 Arts and Culture 042 Made in New Zealand

027

048 Fashion 056 Jewellery

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060 Timepieces 066 Taste 178 Hotel Directory

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Contents

NORTH ISLAND 072 North Island Events Calendar 074

Upper North Island Must Do’s

076 Welcome to Auckland

072

082 Map of Auckland 084 Perfect Day Around Auckland 090 Shopping in Auckland 094 Dining in Auckland 106 Auckland After Dark

094

110

Welcome to Northland

112

Welcome to Rotorua

120 Welcome to Taupo and Ruapehu 122 Lower North Island Must Do’s

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124 Welcome to Wellington 128 Map of Wellington 130 Perfect Day Around Wellington 132 Shopping in Wellington

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136 Dining in Wellington 142 Wellington After Dark

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Contents

SOUTH ISLAND 146 South Island Events 148 South Island Must Doâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 150 Welcome to Nelson and Marlborough

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152 Welcome to the West Coast 154 Welcome to Christchurch and Canterbury 156 Map of Christchurch 157 Shopping in Christchurch and Canterbury 158 Dining in Christchurch and Canterbury 160 Welcome to Queenstown 162 Map of Queenstown

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164 Perfect Day Around Queenstown 166 Shopping in Queenstown

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168 Dining in Queenstown

174

Queenstown After Dark

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Welcome to Dunedin

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WELCOME TO NEW ZEALAND 2012/2013 PUBLISHER Tina Cooper MANAGING EDITOR Nick Argyriou EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Veenah Gunasegaran DESIGN Abby Schmidt SALES AND ADVERTISING Supriya Bakshi Nancy Volta PRODUCTION MANAGER Alice Potter PRE-PRESS Davin Lim SUB-EDITOR Madeleine Swain

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WELCOME TO NEW ZEALAND

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Heather Bloom Ben Erskine Elizabeth Rudenko Ting Teng Veenah Gunasegaran Lilly Moyle Jamie Farshchi Emily Parker Ally Everard Mary Erskine Simone Turner Nyssa Veraphunt COVER PHOTOGRAPH Sky Tower Panoramic. Supplied by SKYCITY Auckland The height of entertainment.

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

For all advertising inquiries relating to the prestigious international Welcome To series, read by millions of affluent travellers each year, please contact the following:

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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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ALSO PUBLISHED BY NICHE MEDIA PTY LTD Architectural Review Asia-Pacific desktop Facility Management HeliNEWS (inside) Interior Design Review Macworld Australia Marketing touch ISSN 1178-9204 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 2012. No part may be reproduced by any process without the written permission of the publishers.

MESSAGE FROM THE PRIME MINISTER JOHN KEY MP It’s my pleasure to welcome you to New Zealand. We’re very proud of our country, and up and down New Zealand, Kiwis are ready and waiting to show off the best that New Zealand has to offer. We’ve got outstanding scenery, a unique culture, delicious wine and food, and many thrilling activities that make us a world-renowned adventure playground. From the stunning glaciers and fiords of the South Island’s West Coast, to the mighty volcanoes of the Central Plateau, there is something for everyone to see. From visiting a traditional Maori marae to fishing for trout in an alpine stream or taking some time out at a spa or eco resort, there is something for every traveller to do. You could sample some of the best fresh food in the world, and match it with an array of our locally produced wines – there is a taste to suit any appetite. And there are so many ways to get a thrill – from jet boating, white-water rafting, and bungy jumping, to mountain-biking and playing golf on one of more than 400 golf courses. I hope you have a great time in New Zealand. There’s always more to discover in our little corner of the world, and our door is always open. We hope you’ll return to our shores again soon.

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WELCOME TO NEW ZEALAND

Best wishes

Rt Hon John Key Prime Minister Minister of Tourism

www.incredibleindia.org India Tourism Sydney Ph: +61 2 9221 9555 info@indiatourism.com.au

MESSAGE FROM THE MANAGING EDITOR NICK ARGYRIOU We again dedicate this edition of Welcome to New Zealand to those who lost their lives and who have been personally affected by the February 2011 earthquakes. As the reconstruction process continues, the resilient Christchurch community bonds together to restore one of New Zealand’s much-loved areas back to its former glory. While many of Christchurch’s attractions, shops and restaurants remain closed, rebuilding of new areas, featured throughout this edition, is in full swing. 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 the local tourist authorities or online for the most up-to-date information. 2012/13 marks continued growth across the nation of New Zealand with new developments, eateries and attractions appearing throughout the land. We’ve provided you with the latest happenings in our current issue, including featured shopping, art, jewellery, sports and a focus on ‘Perfect Days’ around Auckland, Wellington and Queenstown. From interviews with Ron Brownson, the senior curator of Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tamaki, and Vicki Taylor, designer/director for taylor Boutique, to profiles on managing director at Partridge Jewellers, Grant Partridge and Group Executive Chef and co-owner at Wai Dining Group in Queenstown, Martin James, there’s an elegancy of sufficiency within these pages. Enjoy.

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WELCOME TO NEW ZEALAND

Until next time…

Nick Argyriou Managing editor, Welcome To luxury travel series The definitive resource for discerning travellers.

WELCOME TO WOULD LIKE TO DONATE 5% OF ALL ADVERTISING PROCEEDS TO THE RED CROSS EARTHQUAKE APPEAL

These stories were made even more touching, as they came from a community and place we have grown very close to, working with over the past 15 years. Nothing can ever truly console those whose lives, livelihoods and homes have been devastated, but in a small gesture, Welcome To would like to donate 5% of all advertising proceeds to the Red Cross Earthquake Appeal in order to assist those who have been affected.

In addition, to help the local Christchurch community re-establish trade and tourism, we will also include a free of charge listing of the following businesses and bodies: • • • •

Tourism operators Hospitality venues Retailers Entertainment venues

2012 marks a testing time for Christchurch, and Welcome To finds solace in helping the city on its journey to once again flourish in the hearts o f locals and visitors alike.

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As with everyone who heard the stories of loss and devastation come out of Christchurch after the February 2011 earthquake, our hearts were saddened and a sense of helplessness ensued.

WELCOME TO NEW ZEALAND

WELCOME TO SUPPORTS CHRISTCHURCH

Welcome to NEW ZEALAND

Passionate Kiwi Ben Erskine tells us why his country is any travellerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s dream destination. Enjoy the ride.

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Cape Reinga. © Ben Erskine

Much of New Zealand’s 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 centur y.

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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. 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 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 breathtaking scenery.

The locals here are so proud of their country, in fact, that they are always willing to show it off to visitors and you will soon understand why that is once you see for yourself what this place has to offer. So, what does it have to offer? 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! 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. It was here that the first bungy jump took place, which, 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 you could imagine and a few you never would have dreamed of. Popular pastimes include snowboarding on the active volcano Mount Ruapehu, skydiving over Lake Taupo, jet boating through Queenstown’s twisting rivers, glacier walking on 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. New Zealand is

packed with soothing thermal springs, world-class golf courses, sailing adventures, fishing spots and wine tours throughout the country’s vast and diverse wine areas. 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.

Bay of Islands. © 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. It was here that the first bungy jump took place, which, one could say, started the countr y’s love affair with adrenaline and adventure. New Zealand may be a very small country, but it is extremely diverse, with each region offering its own unique landscape and culture. The differences between the North and South Islands are remarkable. If you ask some of the locals, 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 the 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, the aqua blue lakes of South Canterbury and Central Otago. At the bottom of the country is the aptly named Southland, which is where you’ll find giant fiords, pounding waterfalls and ancient untouched forests that 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 upsides of being relatively cut off from the rest of the world. This separation has somewhat cultivated and protected a young, environmentally conscious, creative and multicultural society, while allowing the country’s natural beauty to remain reasonably unspoilt. New Zealand is certainly a land that people dream about, and so something tells me this isolation is a wonderful thing. w

Southern Alps. © Tourism West Coast

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NEW ZEALAND

WELCOME TO NEW ZEALAND 023

Map courtesy of Hema Maps New Zealand.

Fast FACTS

EMERGENCY SERVICES: Fire/Police/Ambulance: Other useful telephone numbers: Local operator: International operator: NZ directory assistance: International directory assistance: AIRLINES: Domestic Air New Zealand: air2there: Qantas: Sounds Air:

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WELCOME TO NEW ZEALAND

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

111 010 0170 018 0172

0800 737 000 0800 777 000 0800 808 767 0800 505 005

+64 9 379 7696 +64 0 069 7470 0800 737 000 0800 800 178 +64 9 912 8814 +64 9 966 9777 0800 800 454 +64 9 968 2208 0800 525 747 0800 800 995 +64 9 921 6040 +64 9 308 3352 0800 945 220 0800 777 747 0800 670 000 0800 808 767 +64 9 977 2209 0800 808 909 +64 9 377 3886 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.

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). DRIVING In New Zealand, all motorists drive on the lefthand 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,

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www.jetta.co.nz

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WELCOME TO NEW ZEALAND

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. 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 waterborne 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 2012/2013 4 June – Queen’s Birthday 22 October – Labour Day 25 December – Christmas Day* 26 December – Boxing Day* 1-2 January – New Year* 6 February – Waitangi Day 29 March – Good Friday 1 April – Easter Monday 25 April – ANZAC Day *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 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 is at the discretion of the visitor. Hotels and restaurants do not add service charges to their bills. w

Express o

Hello

Kia ora

Welcome

Haere mai

Please

Koa

Thank you

Kia ora

Yes

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 027

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!

WELCOME TO NEW ZEALAND

YOURSELF

DFS GALLERIA CUSTOMHOUSE Corner Customs & Albert Streets, Downtown Auckland Tel: 0800 388 937 www.dfs.co.nz www.dfsgalleria.com For over 50 years DFS Group Ltd has remained the world’s leading luxury retailer, catering to the travelling public. With operations in the arrivals and departures of Auckland Airport as well as the iconic building DFS Galleria Customhouse, DFS stocks many of the leading brands and collections available in New Zealand. DFS Galleria Customhouse offers four levels of luxury brands spanning beauty, jewellery, accessories, fashion, watches, liquor, electronics and more! The beauty floor itself showcases an extensive collection of leading cosmetics and fragrances such as Estee Lauder, Chanel, Christian Dior, Lancôme, Clarins, and Clinique.

ESSENCE OF NEW ZEALAND

Relish the Personal Shopper option for its added convenience. Simply phone the retail store beforehand with a list of items, and they’ll be ready to pick up on arrival – shopping has never been easier. Opening hours: 7 days per week, including late night shopping every night until 10pm at the DFS Galleria Customhouse. DFS Auckland Aiport is open for all flights.

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ESSENCE OF Welcome To examines the allure of New Zealand throughout an in-depth analysis of arts and culture, fashion and the flavours of the land. Join us on this voyage to unearth the true essence of an abundant landscape filled with endless magic.

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NEW ZEALAND

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Ultimate adventures B

SPORT AND THE OUTDOORS With a pristine backyard filled with snow-capped mountains, sparkling green rivers and golden beaches, Nyssa Veraphunt finds it is no wonder that all tourist roads in New Zealand lead to the outdoors.

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hether it be lazy summer days at the beach, Saturday afternoons at the park cheering on the local rugby team or conquering a mountain on foot in their spare time, there’s nothing Kiwis adore more than sport and the outdoors. And it is these outdoor charms that also beckon millions of visitors to New Zealand shores each year.

FUN IN THE SUN Tramping (hiking or trekking to non-Kiwis) is one of the most popular activities in New Zealand – not only because you don’t need much to get going, but also because no matter where you are in the country, at any one time, you will literally be walking distance from a remarkable tramping trail. There are walks and treks to suit all levels, from navigating the steep rim of a volcano on the Mount Ruapehu Crater Lake hike or strolling past bubbling mud polls and spouting geysers at various locations throughout geothermal hotspot, Rotorua. The Abel Tasman Coastal Track past the golden sands and clear blue waters of the Abel Tasman National Park, the Queen Charlotte Track through the magnificent Marlborough Sounds and the Milford Track through Fiordland National Park are but a few of the South Island’s trekking highlights. Remember that some of the country’s best spots are only accessible by foot, so get your tramping boots on! For those who don’t mind getting their feet wet, New Zealand is as equally well-equipped at keeping you entertained offshore, as it is on land. Whether it be island hopping the 144 isles that make up the Bay of Islands, taking a day trip along just about any part of the Kiwi coast to see the local dolphin, seal or whale populations, or jet boating at breakneck speed

around Queenstown’s rivers, New Zealand offers a myriad of water-based activities. Actually in the water, diving and snorkelling are notable Kiwi pastimes, and are particularly popular in the North Island where the waters are warmer and there is a plethora of tropical fish and reefs on display. Poor Knights Islands, which are the remnants of extinct volcanoes, should be on the itinerary of any serious diver, with an underwater world of caves, arches and tunnels, not to mention a range of plant and marine life to explore. www.rotoruanz.com www.fiordland.org.nz www.poorknights.co.nz WINTER WONDERLAND New Zealand is blessed with some of the best skifields in the world, and the North and South Islands often play out for supremacy when it comes to which has the best runs, with both islands having outstanding places to hit the slopes. The country’s largest ski areas are located in the North Island at Mount Ruapehu at twin ski resorts Turoa and Whakapapa, and include the longest vertical descent in Australasia. Each level of ability is catered for: from tobogganing slopes for families and beginners, to off-piste skiing in the back country for experts. While there is excellent skiing to be found at Mount Hutt, Porter Heights and Mount Lyford in the South Island, Queenstown and Wanaka take the cake when it comes to being the most renowned and perhaps best equipped for postslopes activities. In Wanaka, you’ll find six international ski areas, including Treble Cone and Snow Farm, as well as the largest heli-skiing area outside of North America. In Queenstown, commercial ski resorts such as The Remarkables and Coronet

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Kayaking. © Nelson Tasman Tourism

Peak offer a range of options from night skiing to tubing facilities and beginner and advanced runs. The Queenstown centre itself is known for all of its urban conveniences, as well as its vibrant nightlife. After a long day out in the cold, there is no better way to revive tired muscles than to soak in one of the country’s many hot pools. Some of the nation’s best include the Polynesian Spa in Rotorua (which offers therapeutic mineral pools filled with acidic or alkaline waters), the Taupo Hot Springs and Pools at DeBretts (for mineral-infused volcanic waters set between 38 and 42 degrees Celsius) and Hanmer Springs (which has a range of pools filled with geothermal water at varying temperatures, as well as a range of day spa offerings). www.visitruapehu.co.nz www.queenstownnz.co.nz www.hanmersprings.co.nz EXTREME SPORTS New Zealand and extreme sports go hand in hand. Caving, canyoning, cliff swinging, abseiling, skydiving, mountain biking, surfing… you’ll find it all, and more, here. Of New Zealand’s adrenaline-pumping pastimes, bungy jumping would have to be one of the most popular, with the sport being invented by Kiwi AJ Hackett. You can still bungy off the Kawarau Bridge

in Queenstown, where the world’s first permanent bungy site was established, but there are plenty of other bungy sites throughout the country, including over raging rivers, to the backdrop of majestic mountains or even sky jumping (a variation of bungy) off the Sky Tower in Auckland. Rafting is another popular national activity and caters to all, with a range of grades and experiences to suit varying levels of expertise. Take a relaxing cruise down a moderate river; get helicoptered in for multi-day raft over wild and raging whitewater, or even blackwater raft through subterranean waters in the dark for the ultimate rafting thrill. If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to catapult down a hill, another of New Zealand’s great inventions, zorbing (which is also referred to as globe-riding, sphering and orbing) could be just the adventure sport for you. It involves participants rolling along the ground or down a hill in a giant transparent ball, which has been known to reach speeds of up to 50 kilometres an hour. Rotorua was the birthplace of this craze around 15 years ago and is still the premier location for this adventure sport. www.bungy.co.nz www.raftingnewzealand.com www.zorb.com

DINK

Zealand Warriors representing the nation against 15 Australian teams in the NRL (National Rugby League). The national league team, the Kiwis, has also been known to pull huge home ground crowds, particularly when facing trans-Tasman rivals the Kangaroos. Cricket also has many followers in New Zealand, with various Twenty20, one-day and test competitions being played throughout the warmer months, but ‘New Zealand’ and ‘sport’ cannot be mentioned in the same sentence without reference to netball, in particular the Silver Ferns who are the darlings of women’s sport in New Zealand. Tongues are always wagging before an appearance at the Commonwealth Games and World Netball Championships, particularly if they face their Australian counterparts. To be guaranteed to see a bit of netball action while you’re in New Zealand, the ANZ Championship, which comprises 10 Australian and New Zealand teams, plays half of its games here and runs from March to July each year. w www.allblacks.com www.superxv.com www.anz-championship.com

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NATIONAL PASTIMES The only thing bigger in New Zealand than playing sport is watching it, but not simply spectating; we’re talking about grown men crying tears of sadness or joy at the end of fulltime, tumbleweeds rolling down the main street of any town when a big game is on and a new generation of children being named Dan or Richie (Dan Carter and Richie McCaw are New Zealand rugby heroes). Rugby, or rugby union to be precise, is the national sport of New Zealand and the members of the All Blacks (the national team) are revered as demi-gods. Rugby spirits are particularly high at the moment, as the team is fresh off the back of 2011 Rugby World Cup glory, where it ended a 25-year drought to claim the coveted Webb Ellis Cup on home soil. There is also a national rugby competition where you can watch provincial rivalries play out, or the Super 15 competition, which sees five New Zealand teams regularly host battles against each other and 10 Australian and South African teams in the season from March to August each year. The other type of rugby – rugby league – is also very popular in New Zealand, with the New

Arts B

AND CULTURE Elizabeth Rudenko examines New Zealand’s rich art and cultural scene and chats to Ron Brownson, the senior curator of Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tamaki about the state of play.

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New Zealand’s unique blend of Maori and Pakeha culture has given rise to a fresh Pacific identity that breathes vibrancy. New Zealand is rich in culture and diversity; its landscape has been a canvas for artists and creators of film, literature and artwork alike, thriving in inspiration. From world-class opera singers such as Dame Kiri Te Kanawa to the creative talent and theatrical spectacle that is the World of WearableArt, New Zealanders continue to explore and develop their artistic nature. Kiwi culture is about being innovative, independent and celebrating diversity. As such, while there’s no denying that rugby and sport in general are intrinsic parts of New Zealand culture, the rising number of high quality art and culture-based events demonstrates that the nation is maturing and being recognised for its strength in this area.

Traditional Maori dance. © Destination Rotorua

THEATRE Auckland Auckland Theatre Company is the largest professional theatre company Auckland has to offer. Founded in 1992 following the bankruptcy of Mercury Theatre, Auckland’s professional theatre company has always been committed to supporting the theatrical world, including developing actors and playwrights, while maintaining a strong professional level through its shows in venues around Auckland. The two most used venues are the Kenneth Maidment Theatre in the Auckland University campus and the SKYCITY Theatre, which notably have been stages for international film festivals. www.atc.co.nz www.skycityauckland.co.nz www.maidment.auckland.ac.nz

Art outside the Museum Hotel. ÂŠ Wellington Tourism

MOA Treasures of Auckland at the Auckland Art Gallery Courtesy Auckland Tourism

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Kiwi culture is about being innovative, independent and celebrating diversity. Dunedin Originally a 2000-seat cinema, the Regent opened on 1 June 1928, and the interior is elaborately decorated in a revived baroque style, characteristic of the super-cinemas of the time. The design is a variation of Robert Atkinson’s for the 1921 Regent Cinema in Brighton, England, which was demolished in 1974. There were comparable picture palaces in other cities in the UK and Australia, few of which now survive and, apart from the Dunedin building, none in their original form either. At the end of 2010, the theatre began a $7.5 million refurbishment, including upgrading the flying system, and replacing the chairs, carpet and other work. It was reopened on 30 July 2011 with a ‘thank you’ concert for sponsors. www.regenttheatre.co.nz

Wellington The Circa Theatre was formed in 1976 by a group of creative individuals, most of whom were actors dissatisfied with what the theatrical world of Wellington had to offer. There are two performing stages: the original and the additional grand stage that gives way for performances of a grander nature. The smaller stage allows for intimate performances, displaying a raw element of performing art. www.circa.co.nz Christchurch The Court Theatre is Christchurch’s only, and New Zealand’s foremost, theatre company, offering entertainment of the highest quality throughout the year. Founded by Yvette Bromley QSM and Mervyn Thompson in 1971, The Court became a

central part to the cultural life of Christchurch, the Canterbury region and New Zealand as a whole and has gone on to become the most successful arts organisation in New Zealand. www.courttheatre.org.nz MUSIC If there were one word to describe the musical culture in New Zealand, it would definitely be variety. Whether it is pop, rock or traditional brass, there is a style to suit every ear. New Zealand’s first hit pop song was ‘Blue Smoke’, written in the 1940s by Ruru Karaitiana. Pixie Williams recorded the song in 1948 and, although it went triple platinum in New Zealand, the award for selling 50,000 copies of the song was only presented to Williams in July 2011. The New Zealand rock scene began in earnest

during the 1960s when the ‘British invasion’ reached the country’s musicians. A number of garage bands were formed on the premier Flying Nun Records label in the 1980s; all with an energetic punk and pop style of their own making. Perhaps the most well-known contribution by a New Zealander to the world of popular music is the enduring Rocky Horror Show musical, written by Richard O’Brien, and first performed on stage in London in 1973. One of New Zealand’s proudest contributions to the music scene is its rich heritage of brass bands. Provincial contests are held regularly and the bands often help celebrate cultural events. The New Zealand National Band has famously earned international praise. www.flyingnun.co.nz www.brassnz.co.nz/natband.html

Maori Caving. © Destination Rotorua

Christchurch The Christchurch Art Gallery has the traditional formal name of Te Puna o Waiwhetu. It has its own substantial art collection and presents a program of New Zealand and international exhibitions. The gallery opened on 10 May 2003, replacing the city’s former public art gallery, the Robert McDougall Art Gallery, which opened on 16 June 1932 and closed 70 years later to the day on 16 June 2002. One of the most famous paintings displayed in the gallery is titled Night Time Photo of the Montreal Street Frontage. The Maori origins of the name are explained as follows: Te Puna honours waipuna, the artesian spring beneath the gallery and Waiwhetu refers to one of the tributaries in the immediate vicinity, which flows into the River Avon. Waiwhetu may also be translated as ‘water in which stars are reflected’. While still indefinitely closed due to the February 2011 earthquake, there’s still plenty happening at the website HQ. www.christchurchartgallery.org.nz Dunedin The Dunedin Public Art Gallery holds the main public art collection of the city of Dunedin.

SENIOR CURATOR, NEW ZEALAND AND PACIFIC ART, AUCKLAND ART GALLERY TOI O TAMAKI

How does the Auckland Gallery Toi o Tamaki reflect the cultural diversity of New Zealand? Auckland is New Zealand’s largest city with 1,500,000 people living here. We have over 200 cultures and ethnicities represented in this region and its art gallery is dedicated to showing the creative vitality of visual artists. More artists in more media inhabit Auckland. Our mission is to celebrate and to show their achievements. What is the inspiration when selecting or sourcing collections? Curators know what is shown, where it is shown and when it is being exhibited. We have a comprehensive knowledge of private collections and other public collections. We see the graduate exhibitions at Auckland’s five tertiary art schools and have a keen sense of what has been created and what is being made now; consequently, we are artinformed experts. What are the future collections that we can expect to see? More artworks by Maori, Pacific, Asian and Pakeha New Zealanders, and also more diversity of media and complexity in the issues that the art addresses. Art reflects contemporary culture in an amazing way. The public may not always recognise and comprehend new art at the very moment it is made, but they usually come to see what artists are bringing to our notice. What do you think is unique about the art and culture in New Zealand? Our mixture of cultures fuels our artists’ vision. Artists of New Zealand are inventive, resourceful and utterly aware of what sustainability means. Consequently, our artists have both vision and backbone. They are resilient and caring: a great mix for any country that wants its talent and skills to be noticed. Its location is in the heart of the city in The Octagon, which is close to several central attractions such as the Public Library and Regent Theatre. The gallery has a strong collection of old, modern and contemporary works, by both New Zealand and foreign artists. It has numerous collections of works by Dunedin-born Frances Hodgkins, an extensive collection of old master paintings, plus the most significant selection of paintings by post-1800 overseas artists. w www.dunedin.art.museum

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Wellington The New Zealand Portrait Gallery, administered from Wellington, is a national organisation promoting the display of New Zealanders through the perceptive eyes of painters, sculptors, caricaturists and photographers. In addition to a diverse modern display of art, the gallery also offers a series of lectures and guest speakers who have influenced the world of art. www.portraitgallery.nzl.org

Ron Brownson

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ART Auckland Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tamaki is the primary public gallery in Auckland and boasts the most extensive collection of national and international art in New Zealand. It frequently hosts nomadic international exhibitions, attracting audiences locally and the world over. Set below the hilltop Albert Park in the centralcity area of Auckland, the gallery was established in 1888 as the first permanent art gallery in New Zealand. The gallery has since been extended between two buildings. The New Gallery, across the road from the main gallery, shows contemporary art and is located in the former Auckland Telephone Exchange Building, which in 1995 was converted into a rather daring fusion of Edwardian and contemporary architecture. www.aucklandartgallery.com

Coromandel Peninsula. ÂŠ Ting Teng

Ting Teng gives us a rundown on some of the things that make New Zealand decidedly ‘Kiwi’.

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IN NEW ZEALAND

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EXPERIENCE GLACIER COUNTRY New Zealand’s Glacier Country, on the South Island’s West Coast, is at the heart of the broader UNESCO World Heritage Area, Te Wahipounamu – South West New Zealand. Take guided tours and walks through the Lord of the Rings-famous twin glaciers of Franz Josef Glacier and Fox Glacier, or immerse yourself in the mirror reflection of the Southern Alps, including New Zealand’s highest peaks: Mount Cook (Aoraki) and Mount Tasman (Rarakiroa) in Lake Matheson. Visitors with an adventurous spirit can enjoy an ultimate interactive experience right across a spiritual glacial zone that attracts almost 250,000 visitors each year.

With about 12 sheep for ever y person in New Zealand, it’s no wonder this countr y produces some of the best quality wools in the world.

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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. 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 also has become increasingly popular due to its versatility in both hot and cold climates. Perfect for roaming through New Zealand. BONZ This stands for Best Of New Zealand and the operation supplies only the very finest quality New Zealand-made leather coats, jackets, vests and its very own unique merino and alpaca handknits. As a gift for yourself or for someone special, you can’t buy better than buying the best. www.bonz.com.au

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The spirit of New Zealand aviator Jean Batten is reflected in a brand new bomber jacket. © BONZ

Merino Wool.

Maori pounamu. © Nic Neish

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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 (ice chest/esky) and head to the 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 spot of leisurely 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 jewel. 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. w

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Fashion AN EMERGENCE OF STYLE

Welcome To uncovers the designers that have taken New Zealand fashion to the world stage.

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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 the event was established 10 years ago. Five of New Zealand’s biggest fashion labels – Zambesi, taylor Boutique, Nom*D, Karen Walker and World – are all good examples of Kiwi fashion houses that have received international successes. taylor ‘Individual creativity’ and ‘experimentation’ are the motifs running through Vicki Taylor’s eponymous label, taylor, which is characterised by the use of materials of exceptional quality. Wearability is also a major factor to the design, as garments are purposely constructed to be able to be worn a various number of ways, making taylor designs as practical as they are fashionable. www.taylorboutique.co.nz

ÂŠ Karen Walker

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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 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. www.karenwalker.com

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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 has said, “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. www.zambesi.co.nz 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

nonconformist 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 many non-traditional woollen garments can be found in her collections. www.nomd.co.nz WORLD Fuelled by energy and passion, Denise L’Estrange-Corbet 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. www.worldbrand.co.nz

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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 fifth 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. w www.seralilly.com

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STOLEN GIRLFRIENDS CLUB In recent years, there has been a steady emergence of other, new and equally remarkable labels to the New Zealand 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, the US and even 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. www.stolengirlfriendsclub.com

Vicki Taylor Where do you find inspiration for your collections? Fabrics and textural combinations continually inspire me. I love combining contrasting shapes and textures like translucent volumes against structured opacity and tailored shapes. Tell us a little about the unique fabrics you use. I love to make our textures interplay against each other, being bold and yet delicate. We import exclusive fabrics for our collections and frequent trips to Europe and Japan allow us to source high quality, leading-edge fabrics from the best mills in the world. I scour the mills in Europe where I feel and work with some of the most amazing fabrications and the true artisans that create them. I always gravitate to natural fibres, as they just have a handle that canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be duplicated in a synthetic. Where is your favourite Kiwi holiday destination and why? Waiheke Island, just half an hour by ferry from Auckland, is the place where jandals (flip flops/thongs) are as important as a fabulous pair of wedges! On Waiheke Island you have beautiful white sand beaches, amazing vineyard restaurants and world-class wines, combined with untouched landscapes and a down-to-earth and friendly local attitude. I love sipping coffee at the Island Coffee Roastery where they are roasting the next batch of beans right beside the espresso machine. I love morning walks along single lane trails where you just constantly get glimpses of untouched coastline.

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DESIGNER/ DIRECTOR FOR taylor

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ÂŠ taylor

AUCKLAND

151 Arthur Street, Onehunga

HAMILTON

The Base, Te Rapa

WELLINGTON

24 Main Road, Tawa

CHRISTCHURCH

409 Main South Road, Hornby

Pacific JEWELS

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Whether your preference is gold or platinum, pearl, precious gems or diamonds, we have the perfect item for you.

rom pounamu, blue pearls and paua shell to esteemed collections of gold, diamonds and other precious gems, New Zealand is a treasure trove of jewels and continues to evolve. Partridge Jewellers for instance has been in business for six generations, but in the past 10 years has made some noticeable changes. With four stores now spread across New Zealand – two in Auckland, one in Wellington and one in Queenstown, the business has transitioned from a traditional jeweller into a luxury contemporary jeweller, which houses some of the world’s most respected brands. Synonymous with beautiful handcrafted jewellery in New Zealand, Partridge Jewellers

bring you the grandest, most exotic gemstones. The only Argyle Pink Diamond Select Atelier in the land, most of Partridge Jewellers pieces are made locally, with a selection of imported pieces sourced from leading international jewellery houses. Meanwhile Sutcliffe Jewellery designs draw inspiration from the shapes of Art Deco and Art Nouveau architecture, whereas ideas for colour are drawn from New Zealand’s natural beauty. Marshall’s Jewellers also offer a fabulous selection of opal, pearl and diamond jewellery, along with the esteemed Fifth Avenue Diamond Jewellers and Mansor’s Jewellers.

PAUA The abalone isn’t the only living organism harvested for the natural treasure that it beholds. The paua, native to the shallow coastal waters along New Zealand’s rocky shorelines, is also cultivated for the beauty it possesses. The paua itself is part of the sea snail family and is recognised worldwide for rich mythology and medicinal properties. The paua shell bears similarities to the mother of pearl shell, however the paua is far more brilliant in its iridescent beauty and is the most colourful of any abalone

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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 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 of the blue pearl comes from the climate of the Pacific Ocean that produces a specific type of abalone, which produces the blue pearl. Depending on the grade, the pearl can range from anywhere between NZD$500–$20,000 and is loved by locals and international buyers alike. Eyris Blue Pearls have been setting the standard for the New Zealand blue pearl industry since the very beginning, and supplies New Zealand with 90 percent of its high fashion pearl jewellery, creating a stir among international buyers.

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POUNAMU Also known as greenstone or nephrite jade, pounamu (which is the traditional Maori name) is New Zealand’s most revered natural gem, steeped in history and holding as many stories as it does unique patterns. The colour of pounamu varies from light to 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 the 12th century, with uses of the precious stone including weapons, ornaments, tools and jewellery. Many retailers specialise in producing and distributing jade jewellery throughout the globe and jewellers and galleries throughout the country stock pounamu.

shells farmed. The colour and patterns vary with each shell farmed and can produce green, pink, blue and on rare occasions, gold and crimson tones, similar to that of the Australian opal. When given as a gift, the paua shell represents peace, prosperity, good luck and health. Also believed to have medicinal qualities, the Maori tribes have used the paua 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 way you look at it, it’s hard to go past the paua, that adorns all types of jewellery from necklaces and earrings to brooches and bracelets.

MANAGING DIRECTOR PARTRIDGE JEWELLERS

Why are buyers drawn to Partridge Jewellers? Our range is unmatched in New Zealand. We carefully select pieces from the world’s top jewellery houses and watchmakers, as well as designing our own range. This results in an expertly curated collection that is tailored to our clientele to be something that looks stunning now, and is sure to be treasured by future generations. How has the company evolved over the past decade? We have a stronger focus on international watch brands, stocking ranges from the top Swiss manufacturers including Patek Philippe, Rolex, Omega, Jaeger-leCoultre, Bell & Ross, Breitling, IWC, Tag Heuer, Chopard, GirardPerregaux, Cartier, Longines, Hublot and Dior. We have also expanded our bespoke jewellery design service, offering our clients exquisite design, expert craftsmanship and the highest quality stones and metals to deliver pieces that match their taste and exact requirements. You are New Zealand’s first and only Argyle Pink Diamond Select Atelier. Could you explain this? Partridge Jewellers is one of only 31 select ateliers that has been chosen worldwide to stock Argyle Pink diamonds and the only select atelier in New Zealand. We were chosen because the specialised service and luxury range Mondial we offer matches the rarity ©and uniqueness of Argyle Pink diamonds. What piece is your personal favourite? It’s probably not surprising that I own quite a few watches. My most coveted is a special Patek Philippe. We have only ever received three of these particular styles at Partridge Jewellers, and when the first one arrived I took such a fancy to it that I reserved it for myself. Unfortunately, a customer liked it just as much and I had to relinquish it and wait two more years before I was able to buy the same timepiece, but this time at a much higher price.

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GOLD AND DIAMONDS New Zealand has a long history of gold production on both the North and South Islands, and while the heyday of the gold mining trade in the country has subsided, you are still able to find locally crafted gold jewellery, many with diamonds and other precious gems. While New Zealand does not produce any diamonds, there is still an esteemed focus on the gem and many local jewellers produce incredible pieces of diamond jewellery. Partridge Jewellers continues to shine, with their latest creations including the Coloured Stone Bracelet: 18ct white gold bracelet set with diamonds, multicoloured sapphires, aquamarines and tourmalines, plus the exclusive Aquamarine Ring: 18ct white gold ring with a 15.78ct marquise Aquamarine surrounded by pave set brilliant cut diamonds. There really is no corner of New Zealand that is not untouched by nature’s beauty, be it the sky, the sea, the mountains or in the millions of precious jewels that lay within the country’s exquisite lands. w

Grant Partridge

100 QUEEN STREET AUCKLAND TEL: 09 368 5975

239 QUEEN STREET AUCKLAND TEL: 09 307 2053 VOUCHER

*Special Condition

www.pearlsea100.com

Timepieces

Time is fleeting, but timepieces are forever, as Welcome To explains…

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timepiece does more than tell the time. It says something about you, about your personal style and about who you are. A timepiece also tells a story – whether it be because it is an heirloom passed down from one generation to another, because it is a gift from someone special representing a milestone or perhaps because it is a holiday souvenir and reminder of your travels. The personal timepiece itself came about in the 17th century after the larger clock was adapted to a smaller size. The first wristwatch was originally a women’s timepiece named the ‘wristlet’, and the concept didn’t became popular among men until the 1920s, after the battlefields of World War I introduced them to the practicalities of having the time in such a convenient location (the pocket watch had been favoured prior to this). The next big innovation to the wristwatch came in 1970, when the first digital watch changed the face of timekeeping. Since then other technological

advancements include incorporating the stopwatch (chronograph), perpetual calendars, minute repeaters (tourbillon), alarms, GPS and even heart rate monitors. While a timepiece is undoubtedly functional, most would agree that in a world of mobile phones, computers, alarm clocks and other household items, the humble wristwatch could be considered somewhat unnecessary. But the popularity of the personal timepiece with men, women and children around the globe is a testament to the value bestowed on it. And this is true for all, from celebrities such as Nicole Kidman with her Omega Ladymatic and George Clooney with his Seamaster to regular people going about their daily business. The longevity of brands such as Vacheron Constantin and Breguet, which have more than 500 years’ experience in watchmaking between them, is also proof that watches have more value than telling the time and are indeed a lasting commodity.

FIFTH AVENUE DIAMOND JEWELLERS Westfield Shore City, Takapuna, Auckland Tel: +64 9 489 8461 www.fifth-avenue.co.nz Diamonds and unique coloured stones are what you’ll discover at Fifth Avenue Diamond Jewellers in Takapuna. We have stunningly beautiful sapphires, fine green tourmalines, tanzanites, chrysoberyl, amazing aquamarines and, of course, natural fancy coloured diamonds in yellows and pinks. Travelling the world to hand-select unique and beautiful gemstones, we ensure that each piece of jewellery we stock is unique and becomes a treasured piece for the lucky owner. Tanzanite symbolises immaculate, but unusual elegance and wearing it communicates self-confidence and individuality – it is a truly magical coloured gemstone.

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In folklore they say, “For a long time they remained hidden from the eyes of men, until one day some Masai herdsmen passing by noticed crystals sparkling in the sun and picked them up.” Opening hours: Mon – Wed 9.00am to 6.00pm Thu 9.00am to 9.00pm Fri – Sat 9.00am to 6.00pm Sun 10.00am to 5.00pm

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Classics

FROM PRACTICALITY TO AN EVERLASTING SENSE OF STYLE

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WOMENâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S Rolex Datejust Special Edition High craftsmanship married to the art of timekeeping. The Datejust Special Edition, a bold incarnation of a feminine classic, is presented here in 18ct Everose gold set with diamonds. White mother-of-pearl Goldust Dream dial, VI set with diamonds, bezel set with diamonds, Pearlmaster bracelet.

Rolex Datejust Special Edition Courtesy Partridge Jewellers

Cartier Tank Angalise Featuring a concentrated form and emboldened lines, the fortified design offers proportion to spare. Cartier pairs this generous, ample volume with characteristic Tank features such as the strap seamlessly incorporated into the case, Roman numerals, chemin-de-fer chapter ring, and blued-steel sword-shaped hands. The signature parallel brancards now house the winding crown, which is perfectly streamlined.

Cartier Tank Angalise Courtesy Partridge Jewellers

Girard-Perregaux Vintage 1945 Lady Pink Gold Well before the vintage look had permeated all trends, Girard-Perregaux conceived a collection inspired by the retro forms of one of its Art Deco style watches from 1945. Since then a variety of versions have drawn up modern interpretations of the unique personality of the Vintage 1945 line.

Girard-Perregaux Vintage 1945 Lady Pink Gold Courtesy Partridge Jewellers

OMEGA Seamaster To celebrate 50 years of James Bond films, OMEGA is releasing a special update of the incredibly popular Seamaster Diver 300m James Bond watch that has been worn by 007 in every adventure since GoldenEye. Stainless steel case, ceramic bezel rings with diving scales in matt chromium nitride with the number 50 in red as a reminder of the milestone.

Breguet Classique 5717 Hora Mundi Courtesy Partridge Jewellers

Breguet Classique 5717 Hora Mundi The dial is in 18-carat gold depicting the American continent, hand-engraved on a rose engine with a “wave” motif beneath a translucent lacquer. Silvered and handengraved day/night indication in 18-carat gold. Individually numbered and signed Breguet. Applied chapter ring with Roman numerals. City indication at 6 o’clock. Date aperture at 12 o’clock. Open-tipped Breguet hands in blued steel.

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MEN’S Blancpain Villeret Annual Calendar GMT This Blancpain Villeret Annual Calendar GMT case in 18K red gold 40mm case, silver dial and crocodile leather strap with deployant buckle. This Blancpain Villeret Annual Calendar GMT features a selfwinding automatic, which only requires just one date adjustment per year, at the transition from February to March. Water resistant to 30 metres.

OMEGA Seamaster Courtesy Partridge Jewellers

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Blancpain Villeret Annual Calendar GMT Courtesy Sutcliffe Jewellery

Showstoppers SPARKLE AND SHINE WHENEVER YOU FEEL LIKE A BIT OF DRAMA

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WOMENâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S Tag Heuer Formula 1 Part of a redefined feminine collection, this timepiece offers 12 Wesselton Diamond indexes that illuminate each hour for you, and the fixed steel and ceramic bezel is encrusted with another 60. For your peace of mind, the butterfly clasp will safeguard what is sure to become one of your most prized possessions. In black or white â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the choice is yours.

Tag Heuer Formula 1 Courtesy Fifth Avenue Diamond Jewellers

Chopard Imperiale The splendours of the imperial age are expressed through this sculptural timepiece. This ladies Chopard Imperiale has an elegant and sensual round case available in rose or white gold and stainless steel. The delicately engraved mother-of-pearl dial base evokes the embroidered cushions on which monarchs used to place their insignia.

Chopard Imperiale Courtesy Partridge Jewellers

Franck Muller Infinity Range The latest Infinity Phoenix and Infinity Phoenix and Dragon range are depicted subtly at the heart of a uniquely designed Infinity Cintree Curvex case. Uniting Chinese mythology as well as the Eastern concept of time, this collection offers a deeply poetic expression of timekeeping. Set respectively with 449 diamonds (4.22-4.25 carats range), the Infinity Phoenix Series is sure to enhance and dazzle.

Franck Muller Infinity Range Courtesy Sutcliffe Jewellers

Rolex Yacht-Master II Designed to meet the needs of professional sailors, this is the world’s first complication built with a patented programmable countdown and mechanical memory. The 44mm Yacht-Master II, presented here in 18ct yellow gold, features a bezel inlaid with a virtually scratch-resistant blue Cerachrom disc.

Léman Chronographe Flyback Grande Date Courtesy Sutcliffe Jewellers

Léman Chronographe Flyback Grande Date Typically Blancpain, this flyback owes its appeal to the remarkable harmony of its design. The luminous hands and numerals of its dial provide easy legibility in the darkness and water, while the screw-in crown, push-buttons and case back guarantee the flyback chronograph’s waterresistance from 100 to 300 metres, depending on the model. As in the field of aviation where constant progress is being made, Blancpain has created an authentic instrument of navigation.

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MEN’S Tag Heuer Carrera High functionality and masculine styling make this Calibre 16 Automatic Chronograph a necessity for all lovers of motor racing. A high-tech Calibre 16 automatic movement powers the chronograph functions like central seconds, plus minutes and hours. An open flange design with red accents, large numerals and special luminescent hands makes them perfectly readable in the dark.

Rolex Yacht-Master II Courtesy Partridge Jewellers

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Tag Heuer Carrera Courtesy Fifth Avenue Diamond Jewellers

Taste

NEW ZEALAND Heather Bloom explores New Zealandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s premier produce regions and uncovers several gems along the way.

et among the most 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. New Zealand is a food and wine lover’s 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.

Akaroa salmon © Wai Restaurant

Waiheke Island Situated a pleasant 35-minute ferry ride from Auckland in the Hauraki Gulf is New Zealand’s

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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 mouth-wateringly juicy stone fruit. Autumn is the season for ripe pears and avocados and winter provides the perfect climate for citrus fruits and root 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.

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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 northwest 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 where you will find local produce such as fresh oysters, smoked mussels, olive oils, freshly roasted coffee and honey.

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Mussel hors d’oeuvres. © Destination Rotorua

‘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, 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. 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 countryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s sunniest spot and also its biggest wine producing region (accounting for almost half of New Zealandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s produce). The abundance of sunshine here, coupled with a mild climate help to cultivate world-class pinot noir and some of the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s clearest sauvignon blanc, of which the region produces around 85 percent of the countryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s drop. As well as having some of New Zealandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most prized vineyards, Marlborough is also home to some of the nationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s finest restaurants and cafĂŠs, which proudly serve a bounty of seafood including fresh crayfish, salmon and the worldfamous 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 Zealandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s top chefs in one-day cooking courses that will see you use local ingredients while learning the secrets of incredible cooking.

A sample of the menu at Herzog ÂŠ Herzog Estate Marlborough

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to complement every meal. A genuine food and wine loverâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s paradise, the only problem may be deciding where to start your gastronomical adventure, and how to stop! w More information www.northlandnz.com www.hawkesbaynz.com www.waiheke.aucklandnz.com www.exploremarlborough.co.nz www.herzog.co.nz www.waiparawine.co.nz www.southcanterburytours.co.nz

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Canterbury/Waipara This may be one of the countryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s newest wine regions, but what it lacks in age, it makes up for in produce. The cooler, drier climate, range of soils and microclimates, coupled with a long growing season well accommodates a variety of wines, including riesling, chardonnay and pinot noir. There are plenty of restaurants and eateries where you can combine your newly found favourite local drop, with local specialities including lamb, beef and venison off the land, and trout and salmon straight from Canterburyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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, a salmon farm, orchards and, of course, wineries galore. Regardless of what your taste buds desire, New Zealand has a restaurant, cafĂŠ, farm or ocean to meet your every whim and, of course, a wine

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NORTH ISLAND

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NORTH ISLAND

Comprising in excess of 75% of New Zealandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s population, North Island is a melting pot of Maori and European heritage. With Auckland and Wellington boasting world-class shopping, cuisine and entertainment, culturally significant locations such as geothermal Rotorua, and the 144-strong island playground that is Bay of Islands represents the true diversity of the land.

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Cathedral Rock, Waimangu Volcanic Valley. ÂŠ Destination Rotorua

EventsNorth calendar Island 2012/2013 U Theatre, Auckland Arts Festival © John McDermott

Causing a Stir. Visa Wellington on a Plate L-R – Rex Morgan (Boulcott Street Bistro), Jacob Brown (The Larder), Shaun Clouston (Logan Brown), Tom Hutchison (Capitol). © Visa Wellington on a Plate

NEW ZEALAND INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL Auckland 19 July to 5 August, Wellington 27 July to 12 August 2012 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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NORTH ISLAND

VISA WELLINGTON ON A PLATE 10 August to 26 August 2012 Visa Wellington on a Plate is a celebration of all things food and wine, with a series of culinary events and shows around the city. 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. There are also cooking demonstrations from leading local and international chefs. Location: Various locations throughout Wellington Tel: +64 4 916 1205 www.wellingtononaplate.com NEW ZEALAND FASHION WEEK 3 September to 9 September 2012 New Zealand’s premier fashion event provides the perfect platform from which to showcase the finest creations from an exclusive collection of emerging and established Kiwi designers, including Trelise Cooper and Zambesi. Location: Viaduct Harbour Marine Village, Auckland Tel: +64 9 377 8033 www.nzfashionweek.com

BRANCOTT ESTATE WORLD OF WEARABLEART AWARDS SHOW 27 September to 7 October 2012 Welcome to a world where 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 0859 www.worldofwearableart.com TOAST MARTINBOROUGH 18 November 2012 Food and wine lovers rejoice, and come and celebrate the new vintage and culinary delicacies from Wellington and Wairarapa’s best restaurants in Martinborough. Toast Martinborough brings together the unbeatable combination of premium wines, outstanding food and great music, all within a charming wine village atmosphere. Location: Martinborough Tel: +64 6 306 9183 www.toastmartinborough.co.nz ART DECO WEEKEND IN NAPIER 13 February to 17 February 2013 Napier is often referred to as the ‘Art Deco capital of the world’ and visitors come from all corners of the earth to see, feel and experience this unique collection of heritage buildings and participate in Art Deco celebrations. From 1920s and 30s cars, aerobatic flying displays, steam train rides, a ‘Great Gatsby’ picnic, dinner dance extravaganzas, to free outdoor concerts, this is a weekend never to forget. Location: Across the streets of Napier Tel: + 64 6 835 0022 www.artdeconapier.com

Dancing at WOMAD. © Taranaki Newspapers

AUCKLAND CUP WEEK

WOMAD

2 March to 9 March 2013 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.ellerslie.co.nz

15 March to 17 March 2013 New Zealand’s largest world celebration, WOMAD is a three-day festival featuring music, art and dance from around the globe. WOMAD happens in many countries around the world, including England and Australia, and is a cross representation of the world’s finest music presented across six stages. Aside from the music, a foodie and cultural vibe is sure to appease even the most discerning. Location: TSB Bowl of Brooklands in New Plymouth, Taranaki www.womad.co.nz NEW ZEALAND INTERNATIONAL COMEDY FESTIVAL Auckland April to May, Wellington May 2013 Big name international acts such as Arj Barker, Danny Bhoy, Wil Anderson and Glenn Wool have lived large at this event, as have a series of local Kiwi regulars such as Billy T James. Big LOL activity always guaranteed at this leading New Zealand festival. Location: Various locations throughout the North Island Tel: +64 9 309 9241 www.comedyfestival.co.nz

NORTH ISLAND

AUCKLAND ARTS FESTIVAL 6 March to 24 March 2013 The Auckland Arts Festival is Auckland’s major festival of art and culture. Presented biennially, the Festival celebrates our people and culture, as well as promoting the educational and economic wellbeing of Auckland. The festival presents a comprehensive program of international and national theatre, music and dance performances, plus a wide range of free events and exhibitions. Location: Various areas throughout Auckland Tel: +64 9 309 0101 www.aucklandfestival.co.nz

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James McDonald celebrates his win in the Telecom New Zealand Derby aboard Silent Achiever. © Ellerslie

Upper North Island

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. Location: Tau Henare Drive, Paihia Tel: +64 9 402 7437 www.waitangi.net.nz THE VAULT Working closely with New Zealand’s best designers The Vault is full of quality jewellery, design products and homewares, from kooky clocks to one-off pieces of art. Displaying both contemporary and classical New Zealand design, this a great place to pick up unique gifts for the whole family. Just entering the store is an experience on its own, as it has been especially designed to reflect the creativity that lies within. Location: 13 High Street, Auckland Tel: +64 9 377 7665 www.thevaultnz.com

WAIHEKE ISLAND A 35-minute ferry ride from Auckland city you’ll find the idyllic Waiheke Island – perfect for a relaxing day trip. The island is a charming combination of forest, farmland, beaches, vineyards and olive groves. Spend the day exploring the beautiful beaches and coves, mountain biking or hopping from vineyard to vineyard on a wine tour. Location: i-SITE Visitor Information, 118 Ocean View Road, Oneroa, Waiheke Tel: +64 9 372 1234 www.waiheke.aucklandnz.com WHITE ISLAND VOLCANO Ever dreamed of exploring the inner crater of an active volcano? You can! White Island is New Zealand’s only active marine volcano, 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. Location: 15 The Strand East, Whakatane Tel: +64 7 308 9588 www.whiteisland.co.nz Cape Reinga Lighthouse.

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 soaking up the sky-high sights. For a quick way down, why not end your day with a Sky Jump right off the tower! Location: Corner Victoria and Federal Streets, Auckland Tel: +64 9 363 6000 www.skycityauckland.co.nz CAPE REINGA AND NINETY MILE BEACH The lighthouse at Cape Reinga resides close to New Zealand’s northern-most tip, and is 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). Ninety Mile Beach, meanwhile, provides a long stretch of sand and dunes perfect for a leisurely stroll, or some serious sandboarding! Location: Close to the Northern-most tip of the North Island, Northland

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NORTH ISLAND

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. Location: The Auckland Domain, Parnell, Auckland Tel: +64 9 309 0443 www.aucklandmuseum.com MOTAT (AVIATION DISPLAY HALL) Now sheltered in its new, custom-designed Aviation Display Hall, New Zealand’s most unique and historic aviation collection is a must-visit. In addition to many of the museum’s aircraft and other

Auckland Zoo Tuatara. Courtesy Auckland Council

AUCKLAND ZOO Auckland Zoo is home to New Zealand’s largest collection of native and exotic animals, just a five-minute drive from central Auckland. Join in a daily animal encounter or get up close with a Zoom behind-the-scenes tour. Open daily from 9.30am (last entry 4.15pm). Location: Motions Road, Western Springs, Auckland Tel: +64 9 360 3805 www.aucklandzoo.co.nz MOTAT. © Museum of Transport and Technology

NORTH ISLAND

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. Location: Westhaven Reserve, Herne Bay, Auckland Tel: +64 9 360 7748 www.bungy.co.nz

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aviation-related material, the Aviation Display Hall now houses items from the Jean Batten and Walsh Brothers Collections, as well as screening the film, Memories of Bomber Command, in full. Location: 805 Great North Road and Meola Road, Western Springs, Auckland Tel: Infoline 0800 MOTATNZ (0800 668 286) www.motat.org.nz/explore/exhibitions/ aviation-display-hall

Welcome to

Auckland

Exploring an environment alive with exciting activities, from adrenaline-pumping adventure to a relaxing day out, Elizabeth Rudenko discovers there is something in Auckland for everyoneâ&#x20AC;Ś

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rom the minute you glance out of the aeroplane window onto Auckland’s harbour, it is easy to see why it has been labelled the ‘City of Sails’, with more boats per capita than anywhere else in the world. Auckland is also New Zealand’s largest city, with a population of 1.5 million who represent the diversity, cultural vastness and individuality of the city itself. Situated towards the top of the country’s North Island, Auckland was originally known as Tamaki Makaurau, or the ‘isthmus of one thousand lovers’ before the land was purchased from the Ngati Whatua tribe, through the 1840 Treaty of Waitangi. European settlers then colonised the site. Since then, Auckland has grown to be a proudly multicultural city with a particularly strong representation of European, Pacific Island and Asian culture. Nearly 20 percent of the city’s population is of Maori descent, and it is also home to the largest Polynesian population of any city in the world. Auckland itself possesses many unique physical features, including being built on an active volcanic field – it is the only city in the world that can claim this. In between Auckland’s north and south there are approximately 50 volcanoes, but fortunately none are expected to erupt any time soon. Auckland occupies two huge natural harbours – Waitemata Harbour to the west and Manukau Harbour to the south. Bridges span parts of both harbours, most notably, the Auckland Harbour Bridge, which crosses the Waitemata Harbour west of the Auckland CBD. The iconic bridge opened in 1959, and visitors can climb over, walk under or bungy jump from this magnificent construction. One of Auckland’s most prominent architectural features is the Sky Tower, which at 328 metres is the tallest structure in the southern hemisphere. The Sky Tower’s three observation levels offer 360-degree views of Auckland, but for those seeking more thrills and excitement, you can walk around the pergola at 192 metres up or ‘Sky Jump’ off the tower, which is akin to base jumping, just with a wire attached! To settle a few of those nerves after the adventure, or simply to enjoy the views, relish one of the scrumptious meals at the Orbit Revolving Restaurant, which also has 360-degree views. Located 190 metres up Sky Tower, Orbit stands out as Auckland’s topmost dining experience (quite literally!).

The Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tamaki is the principal public gallery in Auckland and another ‘must do’ of the city. Built in 1888, the gallery displays the most extensive collection of national and international art in New Zealand. Another attraction is the Auckland War Memorial Museum, which is one of New Zealand’s most significant museums and war memorials. Its collection displays New Zealand’s history, largely Auckland’s history and all its triumphs. For wine lovers, the greater Auckland region has more than 80 vineyards, which are famous for producing chardonnay, merlot and cabernet sauvignon wines to suit any palate. The vineyards are situated within five main districts – Waiheke Island, west Auckland, north-west Auckland, north Auckland and the Clevedon Valley. Many of these Auckland vineyards and wineries are historic, having been established more than 100 years ago, and they export their wine around the world. Wine tasting at Auckland’s vineyards is widely available and wineries often run courses about all aspects of wine appreciation. Auckland’s restaurants and cafés make good use of the city’s easy access to quality sea and land produce, while also incorporating strong multicultural influences, on which the city prides itself. Many restaurants offer ‘Pacific Rim’ cuisine, fusing Pacific and Asian flavours, and eateries cater for all dining experiences from delightful brunches to exquisite dinners and funky café lunches. While in the past Auckland may not have leapt immediately to mind when referring to fashion, this is quickly changing, with designers like Trelise Cooper and Karen Walker blazing the trail for young designers who are chasing their own national and international success. Auckland has a diverse collection of high street fashion, local designers, homewares, crafts and eclectic markets to explore. For those seeking outdoor adventure, Auckland offers various activities to suit the pluckiest of daredevils. Auckland’s rocky west coast is the ideal place to try canyoning, while deep in the heart of the Waitakere rainforest, 40 minutes’ drive from central Auckland, visitors can abseil down waterfalls, jump off cliffs into pools or slide down natural hydro slides. When taking an overview of Auckland, it’s easy to see why it’s known for its diversity. With an abundance of culture, adrenaline-charged and leisurely activities, Auckland proves to be more than just a city. So, why not take advantage of what this adventure playground has to offer and enjoy the ride! w

Howick Village Delightfully Different Maori occupied this area for over 800 years then in 1847 it was settled by Fencible soldiers and their families. Howick Village is now a bustling vibrant area that offers visitors an enjoyable shopping experience in a relaxed environment. Forget the malls and the same old stores. Browse and shop at the many specialty stores and take time to relax and chat over a coffee or meal at one of the many cafés and restaurants. For the energetic, a ten minute stroll down Uxbridge Road leads to the tranquil Howick Beach. Howick Village Radio 88.1fm broadcasts live from our ofﬁce with music, news, sports and community notices. Howick Village is alive on the weekends. Every Saturday morning from 8.30am, the Howick Village Market offers the freshest of seasonal fruits, vegetables, preserves, cheeses, free range eggs, nuts, artisan breads, sweets, cakes and biscuits. Choose from smoked and fresh ﬁsh, deli meats, dips, sauces and salads. Peruse a selection of arts and crafts as well as a great range of garden and indoor plants.

Take an immersive journey through six stunning habitats that showcase our varied New Zealand landscape, at Te Wao Nui, Auckland Zoo’s newest precinct. Home to more than 60 native animal species and over 100 plant species, Te Wao Nui is New Zealand, north to south, all in one place at Auckland Zoo.

Find something for everyone at our Sunday Market, 9.30am to 1.00pm, showcasing arts and craft people with sophisticated creative ﬂair mingled with additional local produce and enjoy a brunch or lunch and soak up the Sunday café culture.

For a day with a difference, visit Howick Village

Start discovering today.

Howick Village Business Association www.facebook.com/howickvillageshopping

www.howickvillage.co.nz 36785_6

www.aucklandzoo.co.nz 10 minutes from central Auckland. Motions Road, Western Springs.

It’s the Trots at Night, under Lights

Racing almost every Friday Night!

Free admission Free Parking Free Racebook Reserved dining options available

09 6305660 dining@alexpark.co.nz

Explore, Imagine, Discover!

www.alexandrapark.co.nz

New Zealand’s southern hemisphere night sky contains beautiful star clusters, gas cloud nebulae and star patterns that can only be seen from this latitude. Visit Stardome Observatory & Planetarium for an evening or weekend afternoon show, to hear the unique legends and stories of these celestial bodies, and learn how to ﬁnd them. Stardome is one of the Auckland region’s most popular and best loved attractions.

Ph 09 624 1246 / stardome.org.nz 670 Manukau Rd, One Tree Hill, Auckland

AUCKLAND MUSEUM

NAU MAI HAERE MAI WELCOME Auckland Museum is one of the ﬁnest museums in the Southern Hemisphere, renowned for its unique collection of Māori and Paciﬁc treasures. It is the only place in Auckland where you can experience the warmth of a Māori cultural performance and take a guided tour of Māori treasures every day. Open daily 10am to 5pm. Admission by donation. $10 per adult is suggested, children are free. Charges apply for special exhibitions and events.

Western Springs

Auckland

0800 MOTATNZ (0800 668 286)

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AUCKLAND

Reproduced with permission from Lonely Planet Publications ÂŠ 2011. Map courtesy Hema Maps New Zealand

Explore Aucklandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Hauraki Gulf with Fullers waiheke island

devonport N

Â´ 45 minutes by ferry. Â´ Ferries depart hourly from 6am-midnight. Â´ Take the Taste of Waiheke or Wine on Waiheke vineyard tours to sample the best local food and wines.

rangitoto island

MOTUTAPU ISLAND (seasonal)

RANGITOTO ISLAND DEVONPORT

Â´ 25 minutes by ferry. Â´ Ferries depart daily at 9.15am, 10.30am and 12.15pm. Â´ Book the Rangitoto Volcanic Explorer for a guided island tour with commentary.

WAIHEKE ISLAND

FULLERS HARBOUR CRUISE

DOWNTOWN AUCKLAND

Â´ 12 minutes by ferry. Â´ Ferries depart approx every 30 min. Â´ Cafes, restaurants, art galleries, the Royal NZ Navy Museum and more. Â´ Check out Mt. Victoria and North Head.

harbour cruise

Â´ 1 Â˝ hour harbour cruise with commentary. Â´ Cruise departs daily at 10.30am & 1.30pm. Â´ Includes a 10 min stopover on Rangitoto, complimentary afternoon/morning tea and a free Devonport return ticket!

facebook.com/fullersferry twitter.com/fullersferry For timetables and booking information on your phone visit fullers.co.nz

PHONE 09 367 9111

WWW.FULLERS.CO.NZ

All times and prices mentioned are correct at time of printing. Fullers reserves the right to change departure times and prices without notice. Visit fullers.co.nz for full timetable and fare information.

Cruise to Paradise and Back with 360 Discovery Cruises Coromandel

2 HR SCENIC CRUISE

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ARTS, HERITAGE, & CONSERVATION

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A PerfectCBD Day and Waterfront

Welcome To spends a day in the life of three delightfully distinct areas of Auckland.

9am The Auckland CBD has much to offer. Go in search of a great coffee and a lightish breakfast to charge the batteries at Espresso Workshop Britomart, right in the heart of it all.

10:30am Move through to knock off a little shopping nearby the Britomart strip at Zambesi or Ted Baker.

12 noon The Depot by top Wellington chef, Al Brown, or The Grill by awardwinning Australian chef and restaurateur, Sean Connolly, both offer a superb fine dining experience. Perfect for lunch.

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Restaurants at The Rocks. © Tourism Australia

1:30pm Time to relax up at the Sky Lounge accessible from Sky Tower’s Main Observation Level admission. Favour a hot chai latte or refreshing guava nectar juice as you gaze out to the action around and below.

3pm The waterfront offers more downtime with a relaxing walk around the Auckland Fish Market and surrounding Viaduct Harbour and Westhaven Marina.

5pm Refresh for dinner with a cocktail at one of the many Quay Street bars. Degree is a good bet. Then it’s off to Harbourside Seafood Bar and Grill on the Viaduct Harbour for an unforgettable meal.

A Perfect Day Parnell

Pataka, Auckland Museum.

9am Enjoy a latte and hot breakfast at Colombus Cafe before heading to Auckland Museum right there in the same building.

Emerald Ring. © Sutcliffe Jewellery

Delicate Fish at TriBeCa.

11am Sutcliffe Jewellery on Parnell Road is where you’ll spend quality time perusing the many wares of this specialist jeweller.

1pm Hunger pains strike so move on through to TriBeCa. Located in the historical Foundation Building in George Street, Parnell, the multiple Cuisine NZ Restaurant of the Year Finalist offers the most perfect Manuka Smoked Duck Breast with liver parfait, buttercup, figs, hazelnuts, apricots and autumn leaves.

5pm Enjoy some art at ARTIS Gallery, showcasing some of New Zealand’s leading painters, sculptors and photographers.

6:30pm The most ideal dinner happens for you at Red Brick Kitchen and Bar. The seafood platter featuring sautéed prawns, sesame squid, crayfish bisque shots and snapper ceviche is the way to go. Wash it down with several sav blancs from the Marlborough region to end a perfect day in Parnell.

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Atrium, Auckland Museum. © Auckland Tourism

3pm Walk it off around Parnell Village and enjoy the many boutique stores. Try La Cigale for French-inspired antiques and even a French-style farmers’ market.

A PerfectPonsonby Day

9am It always starts with a heart-starter caffeine shot doesn’t it? Santos Cafe is the place to start the day with a Brazilian flavour, daily roasted coffee and eggs benedict.

10:30am While still on Ponsonby Road, have a browse in the boutiques like taylor, designer furniture stores and galleries. Then take one of the many heritage walks and admire the town’s classic architecture along the way.

1pm Lunchtime now. Take a walk down to Karangahape Road or ‘K Road’ as it is commonly referred to and choose from one of the many ethnic-influenced eateries.

6:30pm Continue the worldly theme by visiting Genji Japanese. Specialising in a la carte and teppanyaki, this veteran of the Ponsonby culinary scene is pure bliss.

9pm Il Buco is a traditional Roman Pizza al Taglio (pizza by the slice). Sneak a slice on the way home and enjoy a romantic stroll back to headquarters.

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3pm Pure Massage Ponsonby is located on 231 Ponsonby Road. Professionals are trained in the areas of relaxation oil massage, deep tissue oil massage, foot reflexology and Japanese Shiatsu.

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Pure Massage Relaxation Oil Massage.

PHOTOS SUPPLIED BY

John Daley / Superette Ponsonby / Sydney Struwig Craigsydnz - ďŹ&#x201A;ickr stream / Daniel Ngu

Shopping

in Auckland

Welcome To style guru, Elizabeth Rudenko, works her way through Auckland’s finest shopping areas.

As New Zealand’s largest city, Auckland is filled with shopping possibilities. Visitors can find everything from items that are completely mainstream to those that are unique. Although traditionally Auckland doesn’t immediately spring to mind in terms of trendsetting, that notion is slowly beginning to change across all areas of the fashion sector, courtesy of the city’s artistic local designers, and the accessories, homewares, cosmetics and jewellery on offer. Variety knows no limit in Auckland with places such as High Street, Queens Arcade, The Chancery and Vulcan showcasing the city’s best boutiques, including: Karen Walker, Workshop, Partridge Jewellers and Zambesi.

Shopping bag one:

QUEEN STREET AND THE CENTRAL CITY Queen Street starts from Auckland Harbour, commonly known as Downtown, and runs for nearly three kilometres in a virtual straight line. Being the commercial and also the cosmopolitan shopping heart of Auckland, there is an endless assortment attached to the shopping options. Whether you are after a make-astatement outfit by the world-renowned Karen Walker, or looking for a souvenir to capture the moment, it’s all located in the heart of the city.

KAREN WALKER A woman that needs no introduction, Walker’s name is recognised worldwide. From her very first show in 1998, Karen Walker has been expanding her style, creating not only high-end casual wear, but also adding jewellery and accessories. Her distinguished clients include Madonna and Jennifer Lopez, so you know you are in good hands when walking through the doors of this store. Location: 15 O’Connell Street, Auckland Central Tel: +64 9 309 6299 www.karenwalker.com LONELY DOG 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. Location: 20 Customs Street, Auckland Tel: +64 9 550 7170 www.lonelydog.com REAL AOTEAROA REAL Aotearoa seeks the best artwork from throughout the country, so that you can discover pieces from the heart of New Zealand in its gallery store. It has a diverse range of jewellery, glass, ceramics, Maori carving and more. Location: 62 Queen Street, Auckland Tel: +64 9 309 7515 www.realaotearoa.co.nz

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Shopping bag two:

Karen Walker © Karen Walker

PARNELL Parnell was originally a working class area, but the insight of developer Les Harvey in the 1970s saw it transform into one of Auckland’s most fashionable areas. Be sure to visit Parnell Village, where there’s an interesting collection of quaint shops near the top end of Parnell Road. Then spend a day exploring the fashionable village shopping area along Parnell Road, which is renowned for quality crafts and good jewellers.

Big Cheese at La Cigale French Markets © Parnell Tourism

Shopping bag four:

NEWMARKET Almost a contiguous road to Parnell, Newmarket caters to the wealthy residents of Auckland’s eastern suburbs. The main street, Broadway, includes well-known fashion stores, and the streets behind are great for unearthing hidden gems.

RED CURRENT This exclusive boutique-like store has become fashionable in Auckland over the past year. Stocking unique and unusual products from around the planet, here you’ll find furniture, homeware, gifts, baby items, accessories, jewellery, body and bath wares. If you’re into fresh, unique and modern ideas, be sure to stop by. Location: 63 Ponsonby Road, Ponsonby Tel: +64 9 361 1003 www.redcurrentathome.co.nz

ROUTE 66 Popularly known as ‘the Ultimate Jeans Store’, Route 66 was established in 1988 in Newmarket. Route 66 has since become a mainstay and household name in Auckland when it comes to jeans and denims. Levi’s and Hanes led the way in the early days at Route 66, but since then the shop has expanded its product range to become the ultimate destination for denim, selling more than 10 jeans labels and 40 urban fashion labels. Location: 180 Broadway Street, Newmarket Tel: +64 9 522 2819 www.route66.co.nz

ONE-STOP SHOPPING DESTINATION DRESS SMART New Zealand’s largest outlet shopping destination holds over 100 stores offering up to 70% off normal retail prices everyday. Featuring luxury brands such as Oroton and Mi Piaci as well as old favourites like Esprit, Barkers and Rodd & Gunn, Dress Smart also stocks well-known sports brands, cosmetics, perfume, books and mobile phones, making it every smart shopper’s destination. Location: 151 Arthur Street, Onehunga Tel: +64 9 622 2400 www.dress-smart.co.nz

Shopping bag three:

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PONSONBY ROAD Ponsonby Road sits on a ridge not far from central Auckland and has become a central location for trendsetters in recent years. A major attraction for daytime shoppers is the number of internationally known and emerging New Zealand fashion labels that have stores here. These include Juliette Hogan, Minnie Cooper, Robyn Mathieson and Yvonne Bennetti. A true fashionista will definitely find herself being swept away by the richness and style of Ponsonby Road.

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FRENCH MARKETS Undoubtedly a traditional part of many Aucklanders’ weekend morning routine... There’s nothing more enjoyable on a Saturday or Sunday morning than to purchase freshly baked aromatic bread, a serving of paella, a selection of delicious French cheeses from La Cigale Fromagerie and a number of other fabulous products and produce items that make their way into your market bag. Nothing beats the market’s fresh fruit and vegetables, home butchery and friendly approach. This is a real treat for food lovers and those looking to experience the true nature of what Auckland has to offer. Location: 69 St Georges Bay Road, Parnell Tel: +64 9 366 9361 www.lacigale.co.nz

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THE LONELY DOG GALLERY 10 Customs Street East, Britomart, Auckland Tel: +64 9 550 7170 Email: info@lonelydogauckland.com 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. 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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Dining

in Auckland

Will James taste tests the fine fare at some of Auckland’s best restaurants with pleasing results…

PORTOFINO 13a Customs Street West, Viaduct Basin Auckland Tel: +64 9 356 7080 www.portofino.co.nz Portofino brings a bit of Italy to mainland New Zealand. Great food, service and fun are what you can expect from this local favourite. It’s ideal for celebrations, birthday dinners, weddings, romantic meals, families – you name it! For hearty Italian food in Auckland, you must visit Portofino – just over the road from the sea.

MEREDITHS 365 Dominion Road, Mount Eden Tel: +64 9 623 3140 www.merediths.co.nz Intimate, exclusive and elegant, Merediths was voted restaurant of the year at the Cuisine NZ awards. Chef Michael Meredith has created a standout dining experience with his creative and witty take on modern dining. Enjoy the best seasonal local produce and fine wines in a divine degustation or tasting menu.

FUNG BAR AND RESTAURANT 5B Lorne Street, Auckland CBD Tel: +64 9 300 6381 www.fungrestaurant.co.nz Established in May 2011, Fung Bar and Restaurant strives to serve the most authentic Shanghai-style dishes in Auckland, a city filled with exciting Asian dining experiences. ‘Fung’ translates to ‘abundant’ in Chinese and, taking note of the extensive beverage selection, comfortable surroundings and friendly staff, abundance is precisely what you get here.

HARBOURSIDE SEAFOOD BAR AND GRILL 1st floor, Ferry Building, Quay Street, Auckland Tel: +64 9 307 0486 www.harboursiderestaurant.co.nz Situated in the historic Ferry Building downtown, Harbourside is the place to enjoy the freshest of seafood on the best balcony overlooking the harbour. For 25 years, the Harbourside team has been pleasing locals and tourists with New Zealand’s bounty of seafood – oysters, John Dory, crayfish and much more. This is a genuine Auckland institution.

SOUL BAR & BISTRO Viaduct Harbour, Auckland CBD Tel: +64 9 356 7249 www.soulbar.co.nz Soul Bar & Bistro is renowned for its delicious, fresh tastes and flavours that admirably reflect whatever’s in season. Located on the harbour’s edge, seafood is a specialty. This is sourced locally and delivered daily from all over New Zealand. THE GRILL BY SEAN CONNOLLY Skycity Grand Hotel, 90 Federal Street, Auckland Tel: +64 9 363 7067 www.skycityauckland.co.nz/Restaurants/The-Grill.html Vegetarians need not apply – The Grill is a steakhouse with endless delicious choices to thrill meat and seafood lovers. Wagyu with Café de Paris butter and duck fat chips, a platter of suckling pig or crayfish with Pernod butter? Round up a friend with an expense account and try them all. TATSUMI JAPANESE RESTAURANT 73 Davis Crescent, Newmarket Tel: +64 9 529 4422 www.tatsumi.co.nz Yoko and Koichi of Tatsumi relocated from Christchurch to Newmarket in Auckland in October of 2011. Bringing their beloved Christchurch culinary feel to a new town has had its challenges, but now the pair sits comfortably between the many Japanese restaurants in the area. Their Canterbury Wakanui Blue Beef Steak and sashimi are highlights. THE FOODSTORE Market Square, Viaduct Harbour, Auckland City Tel: +64 9 377 0125 www.thefoodstore.tv At The Foodstore you’ll experience creative menus using fresh, natural and organic New Zealand produce from

OWNER AT PORTOFINO How does your menu reflect the true Italy? Emphasising the passionate European love of fresh and tasty food, there is a little bit of Italy in every Portofino meal. From our nonnastyle bolognese sauce, to our traditional pizzas and pasta, like the hand-made ravioli and gnocchi, we want that authentic Italian touch combined with the wonderful products and produce you can only find in New Zealand. What is your signature dish? We are a 30-year-old business and dedicate ourselves to crafting all dishes in the pure Italian way; therefore, our entire menu is dedicated to a signature style! A nice glass of Chianti Riserva and a plate of white veal marsala or our spaghetti alle vongole is always a treat, though. The Portofino motto? Being Europeans and a family business, we are passionate about our food, our wine and your experience, and we are committed to providing consistently good quality food and great service. Our purpose is ‘hospitaliano!’ and this remains our passion for 100 percent guest delight. local farmers with a focus on sustainability and genuine hospitality. Whether you just pop in for a drink, a casual bite or a leisurely dinner, the experience will always be memorable and more than anything – entertaining! THE FRENCH CAFÉ 210 Symonds Street, Auckland CBD Tel: +64 9 377 1911 www.thefrenchcafe.co.nz Consistently regarded as one of the premier fine dining restaurants in New Zealand, this sophisticated ‘café’ has been charming Aucklanders for years. Exemplary service and a desire to continue to innovate, rather than rest on any well-deserved laurels, make chef Simon Wright’s menu an absolute delight. The crispy roast duckling with sweet spices and kumera is a local favourite. O’CONNELL STREET BISTRO 3 O’Connell Street, Central City Tel: +64 9 377 1884 www.oconnellstbistro.com Multiple finalist in the Cuisine NZ Restaurant of the Year Awards, O’Connell has recently been awarded “Best Smart Dining Restaurant in Auckland” in the 2011 Metro Magazine Restaurant of the Year Awards and also bestowed an “Award of Excellence” by the New York wine magazine, Wine Spectator, for the last twelve years. w

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THE ROXY 7 Fort Lane or 44 Queen Street, Auckland Tel: +64 9 929 2701 www.roxy.co.nz The Roxy is part of a redeveloped grand old theatre building finally reopened to the public as a fine dining restaurant. Chef Sean Marshall (formerly of Matterhorn in Wellington) runs a creative and inspiring space with a menu that matches. Save room for the incredible desserts – the raspberry soufflé with dark cocoa ice cream is unforgettable.

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DEPOT 86 Federal Street, Auckland Tel: +64 9 363 7048 www.eatatdepot.co.nz Depot showcases a wide variety of New Zealand’s best produce – from the elegantly named diamond and moon shell clams to wild rabbit rillettes, hapuka belly and tasty lamb ribs. Chef Al Brown has created a fun and unpretentious space to relax and enjoy a great meal.

foodstore the

At The Foodstore you will experience creative menus using fresh, natural and organic New Zealand produce from local farmers with a focus on sustainability and genuine hospitality. Whether you just pop in for a drink, a casual bite or a leisurely dinner the experience will always be memorable and more than anything, entertaining!

For bookings please call (09) 377 0125 | The Foodstore, Market Square, Viaduct Harbour thefoodstore.tv

MIGHT AS WELL HAVE THE BEST THE VIADUCT HAPPENS AT SOUL No visit to the ‘City of Sails’ is complete without a trip to Auckland’s Viaduct area. And while you’re there, be sure to call in to Soul. You could say it’s the centre of the Viaduct, where it all happens. Whether you’re dropping in for a drink, or sitting down to a delicious meal in the award winning restaurant, you’ll be right in the heart of this vibrant part of the city. Enjoy the view from the sunny terrace area overlooking the harbour, as boats come and go and locals stroll the promenade. It doesn’t get any better than this in Auckland. For bookings please call 09 356 7249 or visit soulbar.co.nz Soul Bar & Bistro, Viaduct Harbour, Auckland

O’Connell Street Bistro provides an intimate dining room containing a mere 14 tables; created in the theme of a modern European backstreet bistro. Alongside its cozy, well-stocked bar, the venue also features a private dining room adjacent to the bistro that can accommodate up to 26 people. In its 15 years of operation, the eatery has received countless commendations, and was recently named as one of the best 42 Restaurants in the World by Vanity Fair in Travel Magazine. Its Metro Magazine “Best Smart Dining” accolade in 2011, and reputation for being the only restaurant in central Auckland to be recognised with an Award of Excellence (11 years running) by the exalted New York wine magazine, Wine Spectator, validates O’Connell Street as being one of New Zealand’s premiere bistros. Opening Hours: Lunch: Mon to Fri 11.30am - 3pm. Dinner: Mon to Sat 5.30pm until late.

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3 O’Connell Street, Auckland Central | Tel +64 9 377 1884 | info@oconnellstbistro.com | www.oconnellstbistro.com

TATSUMI MODERN JAPANESE CUISINE & BAR 73 Davis Crescent, Newmarket, Auckland Tel: +64 9 529 4422 Email: dine@tatsumi.co.nz www.tatsumi.co.nz One of Christchurch’s beloved Japanese restaurants relocated to Newmarket after the February 2011 earthquake. The beautifully appointed eatery has a warm atmosphere and retains a modern, exotic look, while proudly offering a $55 prix ﬁxe menu or $80 degustation course. Try its fresh sashimi, crisp tempura, and meltin-the-mouth salmon Teriyaki! Opening hours: Lunch Mon–Fri 11am-3pm Dinner Mon–Sat 6pm-10pm

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MARVEL GRILL NORTH WHARF Corner Halsey & Jellicoe Streets Wynyard Quarter, Auckland Tel: + 64 9 377 8828 Email: marvelgrill@xtra.co.nz www.marvelgrill.co.nz At the core of the Marvel Grill concept is fresh local products, their story and how they are delivered. By selecting only the best New Zealand purveyors and providing the most traceably responsible products available, Marvel Grill offers an experience based on old fundamental dining values. Enjoy one of Auckland’s spectacular waterfront dining experiences today. Opening hours: Monday to Sunday 12pm till late

FUNG BAR & RESTAURANT 5B Lorne Street, Auckland CBD Tel: +64 9 300 6381 Email: fungrestaurant@gmail.com www.fungrestaurant.co.nz Translating to “abundant” in Chinese, Fung brings an authentic Shanghai-style experience to the heart of Auckland. While Shanghai-trained chefs turn out old favorites to appease the public, these culinary artists are always innovating with signature dishes that revolve quarterly. Shanghai crispy prawns with salty buttered yolk, Shanghai spare ribs, crispy duck and braised pork belly, anyone? Opening hours: Mon – Thur 11.00am until 9.00pm Fri – Sun 12pm until 10pm Tue – Closed

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DRAGON BOAT RESTAURANT 7-37 Elliott St (Atrium On Elliott) Auckland Central Tel: +64 9 379 6996 www.dragonboatrestaurant.co.nz Offering a stimulating Cantonese-style atmosphere, master chefs from Hong Kong and China create time-honoured Cantonese and Peking cuisine on a daily basis. An amazing addition to the selection of restaurants at Auckland CBD, the Dragon Boat Restaurant draws in diners with its fantastic location, elegant styling, generously portioned modern Asian dishes and original, Asian-inspired cocktails. Opening hours: Mon – Sun: Yum Cha: 9:30am – 3:30pm and Dinner: 5:30pm – 10:30pm

P O R T O F I N O R E S TA U R A N T S Portofino’s cuisine is traditional Italian with dishes reflecting a northern influence. An extensive list of local and Italian wines complements the menu. Portofino has built a reputation for exceptional quality and service, having been established for more than 30 years. Experience the traditional warmth and friendliness of a true family-owned business. Portofino is an Italian experience you can enjoy nationwide.

VIADUCT A.13A CUSTOMS STREET WEST T.+64 9 356 7080 MISSION BAY A.71 TAMAKI DRIVE T.+64 9 528 1212 PARNELL A.156 PARNELL ROAD T.+64 9 373 3740 MEADOWBANK A.8 DORCHESTER STREET T.+64 9 528 0088 TAUPO A.28 TUWHARETOA STREET T.+64 7 377 6293 NEW PLYMOUTH A.14 GILL STREET T.+64 6 757 8686 TAKAPUNA A.156 HURSTMERE ROAD T.+64 9 488 0077 WELLINGTON A.33 CUSTOM HOUSE QUAY T.+64 4 499 5060 HEAD OFFICE A.UNIT B, 95-97 CUSTOMS STREET WEST, VIADUCT T.+64 9 373 4704 ADMIN@PORTOFINO.CO.NZ

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GRASSHOPPER 22 Albert Street, Auckland Tel: +64 9 308 9211 www.grasshopperrestaurant.co.nz The strange, wonderful sound of Bangkok streets, temple gong, woks and cooking vessels that conjure up sumptuous delicacies of Thai food, is all captured at Grasshopper Thai restaurant. Located in the heart of the Auckland CBD, Grasshopper features an open kitchen, long tables, magniﬁcent waiting staff and most of all, authentic Thai food. Opening hours: Dinner: Mon - Sun from 5.30pm until late. Lunch: Mon - Fri 11.30am -3pm

explore auckland’s most stunning park

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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.

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Cornwall Park. Greenlane. Auckland E email@cornwallparkrestaurant.co.nz www.cornwallparkrestaurant.co.nz

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THE VIADUCT GRILL 95 Customs Street West, Viaduct Basin. Tel: +64 9 307 0995 Email: viaductgrill2004@yahoo.co.nz 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 service is relaxed and friendly and the harbour view displays what the Auckland waterfront is all about. 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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MERCHANTS OF VENICE North Wharf, Jellicoe Street, Wynyard Quarter, Auckland Tel: +64 9 300 3222 Email: enquiries@merchantsofvenice.co.nz www.merchantsofvenice.co.nz Merchants of Venice restaurant (MoV), is the latest addition to the North Wharf dining scene and brings truly authentic Italian cuisine to Aucklandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s waterfront. The interesting and varied menu is inspired by rustic, regional specialties from around Italy and has an emphasis on using the freshest local seafood, wild game and produce available seasonally. Fresh pasta is made in-house daily, and the authentic Roman-style wood-fired pizzas are winning acclaim for the beautiful combinations of quality ingredients. Join us for lunch and dinner daily, with brunch being served on Saturdays and Sundays. When booking your table, mention you read about MoV in Welcome to New Zealand and receive a complimentary cocktail and matching amuse-bouche upon arrival. Opening hours: Mon - Fri 12pm until late, Sat - Sun 10.30am until late

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After Dark

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Welcome To reveals why Auckland is as colourful and vibrant by night as it is by day…

TYLER STREET GARAGE 120 Quay Street, Britomart, Auckland CBD Tel: +64 9 300 5279 www.tylerstreetgarage.co.nz This converted garage embraces its working class roots with a rustic but funky fitout complete with exposed brick walls, polished concrete floors and minimal fittings. But the real charms of this place are its north-facing rooftop bar overlooking the port, savvy signature cocktails, regular live music acts and bar fare, which ranges from tasty sharing plates to New York-style pizza and gourmet hot dogs.

SMITH WINE AND COCKTAIL BAR Corner Commerce and Galway Streets, Britomart, Auckland CBD Tel: +64 9 309 5529 www.smith-bar.co.nz Priding itself on being part of a bygone era when ‘the food was good and simple and the drinks strong’, this wine and cocktail bar is charmingly characterised by ornate armchairs, velvet lounges, chandeliers, 19th century-styled wall art and tapestry-woven rugs. This is really the perfect place to enjoy a yarn with some old friends, accompanied by some good, old-fashioned service.

SOUL BAR Viaduct, Auckland CBD Tel: +64 9 356 7249 www.soulbar.co.nz Soul Bar is a trendy establishment sitting right in the heart of the Viaduct. It features regular events, such as sponsored cocktail parties and themed soirées, and has an impressive drinks list with a wide range of quality wines sourced both locally and from afar. The award-wining kitchen also serves up innovative bar food that’s raved about – the duck and prune terrine and the mini merguez hot dogs being no exception!

BRITOMART COUNTRY CLUB 31 Galway Street, Britomart, Auckland CBD Tel: +64 9 303 2541 www.britomartcountryclub.co.nz Escape from the rigours of city life to the idyllic garden backdrop of New Zealand’s biggest courtyard bar. Enjoy local wine, imported beers and exotic cocktails… or, for something a little more refined, a high tea of miniature cakes and gourmet sandwiches. For those who feel the need, there is a petanque court and putting green waiting to be used.

EVERYBODY’S BAR 7 Fort Lane or 44 Queen Street, Auckland Tel: +64 9 929 2702 www.everybodys.co.nz Within the same Imperial Lane complex as the Roxy, Everybody’s Bar is a relaxed bistro that spreads out across multiple floors and has an interior garden space in the middle of the city. Everybody’s Bar is the perfect place to escape and relax with a glass of wine or maybe a finely crafted cocktail.

BONITA 242 Ponsonby Road, Ponsonby Tel: +64 9 376 5670 www.bonita.co.nz This cosy wine and tapas bar, situated in the heart of Ponsonby, is an ideal hideout for an intimate evening of quality drinks and live music. Watch the world go by from the verandah or street-side tables while you enjoy a cocktail or a drop from the extensive wine list.

MO’S Corner Wolfe and Federal Streets, Auckland CBD Tel: +64 9 366 6066 www.mosbar.co.nz This hole-in-the-wall bar is just the place to visit for a local Auckland experience. Pride is taken in serving up the perfect drink whether it be a handcrafted cocktail or carefully selected wine. This bar makes for a refreshing change and takes drinking back to an art form and a time when a friendly chat over the bar was the norm.

NORTHERN STEAMSHIP CO Corner Quay and Gore Streets, Britomart, Auckland CBD Tel: +64 9 374 3952 www.northernsteamship.co.nz One of Mac’s Brewery’s famously funky brew bars, the Northern Steamship Co expertly combines food, drinks and a lively pub atmosphere. The Mac’s brews flow exceptionally easily on tap, as do the carefully chosen wines and concocted cocktails. The gourmet food alone is worth visiting for, but while you’re here, look out for live music during the week, DJs on the weekend and important sporting events playing on the big screen all year round.

GYPSY TEA ROOM 455 Richmond Road, Grey Lynn Tel: +64 9 361 6970 www.gypsytearoom.co.nz The Gypsy Tea Room reflects the eclectic, arty and understated suburb of Grey Lynn in which it is located. The interior oozes old-world charm with its wooden furnishing, dim lighting, lavish drapes, and decorative panelling on the ceiling and walls. The craft beers, local wines and delicate cocktails are impeccably complemented by the bar snacks, which are aptly called ‘amusegueules’ or ‘food to amuse your mouth’.

IVORY LOUNGE 421 Parnell Road, Parnell Tel: +64 9 373 3328 www.ivorylounge.co.nz Touted as one of the country’s best piano bars, the Ivory Lounge is certainly the place to visit for some smooth and soulful live music. There is an extensive list of local and imported beers and wines, as well as a variety of classic and signature cocktails such as the Ivory Summer, which is concocted with lycee, feijoa vodka, Midori and apple juice. SUGAR BAR 3a York Street, Newmarket Tel: +64 9 524 2628 www.sugarbar.co.nz Sugar Bar prides itself on being Newmarket’s first and only cocktail bar, and with good reason, as it has all the provisions in place for an entertaining night out. Sophisticated décor, mood lighting and soothing music create an enjoyable backdrop while you sip from the selection of more than 110 different drinks.

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Lenin

The Pinnacle of Auckland’s Nightclubs With its large and alluring outdoor deck, Lenin is perfect for those alfresco after work drinks and nibbles. With the combination of an extensive vodka selection, a unique 360 degree bar and Award Winning bartenders, you definitely can’t go wrong ordering a mouthwatering cocktail at Lenin.

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Late night Lenin transforms into a high energy nightclub, showcasing New Zealand’s leading DJs, so avoid queues and come early. Treat yourself to a piece of after dark decadence.

1. The Carpark

201 Quay St, Princes Wharf, Auckland P: 09 377 0040

The Carpark

The Carpark is designed to indulge all of your senses, with a unique style of interactive entertainment with arcade games, quiz nights, jaw-dropping pizzas, live entertainment and signature cocktails for all occasions. You can choose to relax on the large outdoor heated deck, sink into a comfortable leather booth, enjoy the games room or try one of the homemade gourmet pizzas at prices that cannot be beaten.

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Carpark has a diverse and delicious range of cocktails, popular Top 40 playlist and talented DJ’s, The Carpark is definitely a must stop on your night out. Meet you at The Carpark! 1 Lower Hobson St, Auckland P: 09 358 5155

2. No.1 High Street

The Waterfront Café and Bar

Freddy’s ice house

Serving up the Best Views in the Viaduct

Come on in to Auckland’s only ice bar, where everything from the glassware to the bar is completely made of ice!

Take time out and unwind after work on one of The Waterfront Cafe’s decks, and experience the only true on the water dining experience in The Viaduct.

The Coolest Experience in Auckland

Once we provide you with a warm jacket, gloves and footwear you will be ready to experience this amazing winter wonderland.

After dark, The Waterfront Cafe turns into a popular bar and nightclub, serving up the best old school hip hop and funk.

Whether you are wanting to bring the entire family for a one of a kind experience, to enjoy Freddy’s famous cocktails, mocktails or shots from the Jäger Ice Luge, Freddy’s can cater to all your needs.

A unique and vibrant atmosphere with excellent service, and a cocktail menu to match. Whether you need a venue for your next family dinner, Xmas party or social gathering, The Waterfront Cafe will suit all occasions.

With the unique Kiwi themed carvings, the interactive ice games and sculptures you can touch, play with or even lick at your own peril.

Drop in to The Waterfront Café for breakfast, lunch or dinner and experience the extensive menu, which reflects its stunning surroundings.

You are guaranteed to have the coolest experience ever.

The Waterfront Cafe is definitely a must do when in Auckland!

201 Quay St, Princes Wharf, Aukland P: 09 377 6702

Maritime Museum Complex, Viaduct Basin P: 09 359 9914

Andrew Andrew

The Craft Beer Boudoir While wandering along Princes Wharf you will come across a petite hidden paradise known as Andrew Andrew. With an intimate, chilled out atmosphere and familiar sounds from the soul and funk era, and an unrivalled New Zealand craft beer selection, ample wine list and scrumptious cocktail, Andrew Andrew is a classic, yet stylish bar. Andrew Andrew is the inner city local for after work corporates, regulars and discerning party goers, and has played host to celebrities such as Daniel Carter, Bono and the crew from The Rolling Stones. So come on down to Andrew Andrew and relax back in the leather booths, try out one of the craft beers and be entertained by live music. 201 Quay St, Princes Wharf, Auckand P: 09 377 0040

Provedor

Viaduct’s Friendliest Watering Hole since 1999 Provedor is renowned for its relaxed and friendly environment, which has made it a landmark in Auckland’s nightlife from dusk till dawn. Provedor gives you a license to be yourself and encourages a memorable, fun filled experience. With a mix of pub anthems, rock and new hits Provedor has a little bit of something for everyone!

3. Andrew Andrew

Provedor’s personality is not defined by a DJ, menu or stereotypical group. It is genuine, honest and real - like its eclectic clientele Come in to Provedor and party the night away, where you can just be yourself. 201 Quay St, Princes Wharf P: 09 377 1114

No.1 high street

Sophistication and Style If you are looking for an elegant venue in the heart of Auckland’s Fashion and Business District, then look no further than No.1 High Street. Situated in a 1920’s space, No.1 showcases a casual and comfortable ambience that is centred around a breathtaking 1900’s styled main bar. Upstairs on the mezzanine you will find a luxurious Invite-Only VIP room.

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CODE

Bungalow 8

West Coast USA Cool with a Dash of New York

No.1 is the ultimate destination whether it is for business lunches, private functions, casual dining, after work drinks or a night out. With the restaurant having the best value for money offerings in the CBD or one of the specifically designed cocktails by the No.1 High Street Mixologists, No.1 is the No.1 place to be.

Walking down into Code you instantly know why it was ranked 2010 Nightclub of the Year, with bar service from the door to the dance floor, Code is an institution in Auckland City’s nightlife.

Escape from the monotony of the everyday grind at Bungalow 8, with their warm and tropical environment, all your worries will be left at the door.

The baby grand piano is custom fit for DJs, vocalist and all entertainment – playing the best new funk, disco and commercial house music, No.1 is the No.1 place to be.

Relax on the balcony overlooking The Viaduct Harbour and enjoy the fresh and delicious cocktails made by the Culinary Fare Bartender of the Year – Ben Taylor.

It all starts at No.1!

4. Lenin

A Unique Underground Clubbing Experience

Boasting one of the strongest teams of resident DJs, which include Overkill, Dirty Funky Dildz, Andy Waite and Wade Magowen. Code has also played host to international DJs including Axwell, Afrojack, Roger Sanzchez and Dirty South. Although ever evolving, Code is still considered to be the spiritual home to the underground club scene - with Auckland’s heaviest bass pounding, body shaking, cook you from the inside out sound system – Code will always guarantee a memorable night out, it is the one and only haven for any late night clubber. 13 Shortland St, Auckland P: 09 309 9764

Late night Bungalow 8 evolves into a vibrant, busy party environment, yet it still retains the fresh and comfortable style that Bungalow 8 is known for. Bungalow 8 can cater to everyone’s needs, whether it is corporate events, group bookings, exclusive parties, product launches, fashion shows or private celebrations. Be sure to make Bungalow 8 your first choice. 48 Market Place, South Viaduct, Auckland P: 09 307 1500

1 High St, Auckland P: 09 377 7666

Showcase Hospitality For enquiries call 09 302 1079 www.showcase hospitality.co.nz

Welcome to

Northland

Jamie Farshchi ventures to New Zealand’s northern tip to uncover a history as enchanting as the idyllic scenery.

ith its rugged western coastline, dramatic mountains and pristine, silica beaches, Northland is a region revered for its natural beauty. Spanning over 13,000 square kilometres of New Zealand’s North Island, Northland is the northernmost region of the country. Its two coasts, the beautiful but harsh west coast, and its polished and refined counterpart to the east, meet at Cape Reinga, a jagged, rocky outcrop where the tides of the Tasman Sea crash against those of the mighty Pacific Ocean. Northland is often referred to as ‘the birthplace of the nation’, as it is the place where, legend has it, the Maori adventurer Maui cast his grandmother’s magic jawbone out to sea and hauled in the huge fish that became the North Island or Te Ika a Maui (the fish of Maui). In more recent history, it is the place where the Treaty of Waitangi was signed between the Maori and the British in 1840. With its subtropical climate of humid summers and mild winters, Northland has much to offer the year-round visitor. Take a drive along the Twin Coast Discovery Highway to Whangarei, Northland’s urban

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centre, visit the town’s galleries and sample the region’s local produce at à Deco, widely recognised as one of New Zealand’s best restaurants. Nearby Tutukaka not only offers beautiful scenic coastline, but also acts as the gateway to the Poor Knights Islands marine reserve. An internationally recognised diving destination and wildlife reserve, Poor Knights Islands are found 23 kilometres off the Tutukaka coast. With its clear water, abundant marine life and aweinspiring oceanography of sea caves, underwater tunnels and ancient volcanoes, the reserve is on any diver’s must-do list. Tutukaka also offers a passage to New Zealand’s northern surfing mecca, with Tutukaka Surf Experience offering beginners lessons on the coastline’s pristine Sandy Beach. Those with a little more surfing prowess can battle the huge west coast swells near Ahipara at Shipwreck Bay – the left-handed point break featured in the classic 1966 documentary, Endless Summer. About 60 kilometres north from Whangarei is Paihia, the coastal hub at the centre of the 144 islands that make up the Bay of Islands. Best known as a big game © Ben Erskine

dozen cellar doors, including Marsden Estate, named in homage to New Zealand’s first winemaker, and Karikari Estate, the nation’s northernmost winery. A short stay in the area would benefit from a visit to the Far North Wine Centre in Mangonui, with the centre stocking wine from every cellar door in the region. Long considered the northernmost point in New Zealand (the honour now goes to North Cape’s Surville Cliffs, 30 kilometres to the east), Cape Reinga is the tip of the Aupouri Peninsula. Located some 100 kilometres from the nearest small town, Cape Reinga is notable as the point where the Tasman Sea meets the Pacific Ocean. The cape’s lighthouse offers visitors a view of the tidal race, a powerhouse of swells best viewed on stormy days. Cape Reinga, or Te Rerenga Wairua (leaping place of the spirits), is also significant in Maori mythology as the point from which the spirits of the dead leave the earth for their homeland or Hawaiki. No visit to Northland would be complete without a visit to the famous Ninety Mile Beach. A misnomer, the beach is 88 kilometres (55 miles) long, and the stretch of coastline is actually a registered highway. The drive is best left to the experts, however, as rental cars aren’t insured for the sandy conditions and the drive can be quite dangerous. Taking a tour is the best way to experience the beach and comes complete with the opportunity to sandboard down the many dunes. With one of New Zealand’s most spectacular coastlines and myriad of opportunities for adventure, Northland is as awe-inspiring as it gets. w

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fishing destination, the Bay of Islands also offers quaint townships, spectacular nature walks, sea kayaking, and whale and dolphin watching. With its beautiful coastline and secluded bays, it’s also a perfect spot for sailing, with day, overnight and private charters available. Those with a more adventurous spirit can join a tall ship crew and take a two-day tour of the islands. A short ferry ride from Paihia is the tiny and very romantic village of Russell. It was the site of New Zealand’s first European settlement and once the nation’s capital. Yet, this unassuming seaside town holds a dark and violent past. Previously named Kororareka, the town was known for its lawlessness, thieves and prostitutes, and more often went by the moniker ‘The hellhole of the Pacific’. The town’s worst days are now thankfully well behind it and visitors are more likely to experience romantic waterfront dining at one of the town’s many eateries or stroll along the coast from the historic wharf. The Doubtless Bay area, a stretch of coastline spanning from Taupo Bay in the east to the Karikari Peninsula, is quickly becoming one of the region’s great food destinations. From fish and chip shops located just across from the marina to the weekend farmers’ and Mangonui Village markets stocking fresh produce, coffee and awardwinning Hihi olive oil, the region is worth a visit from any self-respecting food enthusiast. While Northland is New Zealand’s smallest wine region, it was also the nation’s first, with the grapevine introduced to Kerikeri, and thus New Zealand, by Samuel Marsden in 1819. The region is now home to just over a

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Welcome to

Rotorua

Veenah Gunasegaran lifts the veil of mist off Rotorua to discover a captivating land that draws you in with its rich history, culture and beautiful landscape.

Rotorua Bath House.

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t’s difficult not to be in awe of what surrounds you in Rotorua, one of New Zealand’s most beautiful and scenic destinations. It’s a place that has you feeling as though you’ve been transported to a mystical land, thanks to a persistent fog that regularly passes through the city and the distinctive smell of sulphur in the air. Rotorua translates to ‘second lake’ in Maori, and was thus named because it was the second lake to be discovered by Maori chief and explorer, Ihenga. The centre is located in the middle of the North Island and is as well-known for its geothermal activity as it is for being a Maori spiritual heartland. The town’s location on the Pacific Rim of Fire, a trail of hotspots of volcanic and seismic activity that extends along the Pacific Ocean, has led to the creation of geothermal activity, which has taken place over thousands of years and resulted in astounding natural beauty and untouched landscapes. International tourists and New Zealanders alike flock to the city, which is nestled along the shores of Lake Rotorua, to experience one of the world’s greatest geothermal landscapes at its best. You’ll get used to the sound of bubbling pools and the sight of steam rising from cracks in the ground around Rotorua. You’ll even get used to the smell of sulphur, which is caused by the geothermal emissions and the hot pools high in this distinctively smelling place. No need to worry, however, as sulphur is completely safe and nontoxic and has a wide range of benefits from improving acne and skin problems to easing arthritis and joint pain. So, if you get a chance, soak your legs in one of Rotorua’s many mud pools! The Polynesian Spa offers you a taste of all these perks in one place. Whether you’re looking for a private pool, a family spa or some sort of spa therapy, be assured that this

place is equipped to pamper you and give you a relaxing thermal spa experience against the tranquil backdrop of Lake Rotorua. Rotorua’s thriving geothermal landscape can be found in five primary areas (Tikitere [Hell’s Gate], Whakarewarewa, Waimangu, Wai-O-Tapu and Orakei Karako) where you’ll be treated to a range of landscapes, including crystal clear blue lakes, bright green pools, intense mud ponds and silica structures that range in colour from jade green to a rusty brown. Tikitere was given the name ‘Hell’s Gate’ by English playwright George Bernard Shaw, who was convinced the area was a gateway to hell when he visited in the early 20th century. The most active of Rotorua’s thermal parks, Hell’s Gate is also home to New Zealand’s largest mud volcano and Kakahi, the largest thermal waterfall in the southern hemisphere and once used by ancient Maori warriors to clean wounds sustained from battle. Invigorate yourself at the Wai Ora spa at Hell’s Gate, which lets you experience the medicinal and curative properties of the Hurutini pool. Orakei Korako, which translates to ‘The Place of Adorning’, was once used by Maori women to bathe and prepare themselves for prayers and ceremonies. The park is only accessible by boat and has preserved much of its colourful landscape through its isolation. The picturesque silica terraces that are present in various parts of the area will leave you in awe with their captivating colours. A short climb to the Rainbow Lookout allows you to look down onto the Emerald Terrace, which is a jade green colour thanks to the algae formed in the hot water flowing through it. The Diamond Geyser is just as astonishing with its unpredictability. It sends spurts of hot water droplets up into the air, sometimes eight metres high, forming what looks like little diamonds sparkling in the sky.

TE HAA GALLERY 453 S/H 30, Lake Rotoma Tel: +64 7 362 0899 Email: joe-kemp@xtra.co.nz Leading Kiwi sculptor Joe Kemp and wife Sherie run the unique garden gallery, Te Haa, (The Breath), on the shore of beautiful Lake Rotoma. Featuring art imagery carved into rocks and tree trunks; Te Haa was chosen by Tourism New Zealand as the site to showcase the nation’s high-end art. Opening hours: Open 7 days, 10.00am to 5.00pm weather permitting

Three kilometres south-east of Rotorua, Whakarewarewa is known as a living thermal village. There are 500 hot springs in the area and it is also home to the largest geyser in New Zealand, the Pohutu Geyser, which will take your breath away as it shoots hot water 27 metres into the sky, up to 15 times a day. Here you can also visit a Maori village complete with guided tours for an insight into how the Indigenous people of New Zealand lived on the land centuries ago. Be entertained by traditional performances and sample customary cuisine. The Tamaki Maori Village, situated within the ancient Tawa forest, also offers traditional Maori performances and dining experiences, where food is prepared in a hangi – hot coals beneath the ground. Top off your trip to Rotorua by taking a chartered helicopter ride to White Island, New Zealand’s most active volcano, which is estimated to be between 100,000 and 200,000 years old. The bird’s-eye view of this remarkable sight of white steam rising from the grounds will captivate you and, if you’re feeling adventurous, you can take it one step further by partaking in a sixhour walking tour that explores the inner crater of this stunning island volcano. You’ll definitely enjoy walking through this unique naturally carved landscape with sights such as sulphur crystals rising from the ground and a large bright green lake, which is found at the edge of the main crater. Once you witness New Zealand stripped raw in all its original, untouched beauty – by experiencing Rotorua’s traditional Maori culture, walking the edge of active volcanic wonderlands, being revitalised by natural minerals and simply taking in the beauty of this natural geothermal landscape – you will find it hard to leave. w

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Photo: Steve Molloy

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ROTORUA MUSEUM Queens Drive, Rotorua Government Gardens Rotorua Tel: +64 7 350 1814 www.rotoruamuseum.co.nz A recent multi-million dollar development has transformed Rotorua Museum into a truly world-class, must-see experience. Discover the region’s rich culture, volatile landscape and dramatic history brought to life through stunning multimedia exhibitions, fascinating cinema experiences and informative guided tours. Five changing galleries showcase local, national and international art, plus there is an exciting programme of touring exhibitions.

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THE REDWOODS, WHAKAREWAREWA FOREST Gift Shop & Visitor Centre Long Mile Road, Rotorua Tel: + 64 7 350 0110 www.redwoods.co.nz If you love the great outdoors and wish to experience nature at its best; then escape into the Redwoods, Whakarewarewa Forest. Enjoy breathtaking walks, mountain bike trails and gorgeous panoramic views across 5600 hectares of exotic timberland with it’s towering grove of Californian Redwoods. The Gift Shop and Visitor Centre is your ﬁrst stop for information on the extensive trail network.

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AORANGI PEAK RESTAURANT Top of Mountain Road, Rotorua Tel: +64 7 347 0036 www.aorangipeak.co.nz There is no other view like the one you’ll experience from Aorangi Peak Restaurant, showcasing a splendid panorama of Rotorua, the spiritual home of New Zealand culture. Aorangi Peak Restaurant is just a 15-minute scenic drive from central Rotorua and boasts the highest viewpoint in the district. A long time ago when the Maori of Aotearoa (New Zealand) first arrived, Ihenga, the grandson of the great explorer, Tamatekapu, discovered and named Lake Rotorua. Mount Ngongotaha, the peak of which was known as Te Tuahu a te Atua (The Altar of the God) was the chief home of the ‘fairy people’, where Arorangi Peak Restaurant is situated today. 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, 2011 and 2012. Visitors often describe them as one of the most memorable moments in their journey through New Zealand.

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Welcome to

The Central Plateau

Emily Parker discovers the mystique of this picturesque region exists not only in its legendary history, but also in its extraordinary geographical formations.

ew Zealand’s Central Plateau is an area steeped in rich Maori history. Lake Taupo, which forms the lifeblood of the region, is said to be the cloak of Tia, a descendant of the local Ngati Tawharetoa tribe, who, on discovering the eastern shores of the lake, saw a rock formation that resembled his cloak (Taupo), and so named the area Taupo-Nui-a-tia or ‘the great cloak of Tia’. This freshwater lake is New Zealand’s largest, covering an area equivalent to the island of Singapore, approximately 620 square kilometres. Gently hovering in the distance is the mountainous, volcanic World Heritage-listed area of Tongariro National Park in the Ruapehu region, which lies in the middle of the plateau. Here Maori legend states that once all the mountains stood together at the shores of Lake Taupo, and fought for the love of beautiful Pihanga, causing violent eruptions of smoke and fire. Mount Tongariro, the victor, sits next to his love, Pihanga, with Ruapehu and Ngauruhoe a slight distance behind. Tauhara watches from afar over the township of Taupo, while in the north Puataki lies defeated. And to the south, stands Mount Taranaki after running away and carving the Whanganui River in his path to the west coast. The wonder and romance of this area has long been recognised, with the Tongariro district being declared New Zealand’s first national park, and the first national reserve in the world to be gifted by an indigenous people in 1887. The influence of European settlement soon after led to established agriculture in the fertile lowlands and

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Great Lake Taupo. © Visit Ruapehu

later on, the introduction of brown and rainbow trout to Taupo’s waters, resulting in the area becoming a world famous trout fishing destination. As it is centrally located in New Zealand’s North Island, you’d have to literally go out of your way to miss the Central Plateau. It is a convenient and welcome midpoint to any visitor itinerary and offers a diverse range of activities and experiences. The area is known as the adrenaline capital of the North and, if you are one of those with an adventurous spirit, why not indulge in jet-boating the mighty Waikato River (New Zealand’s longest) or marvel at the power of the Huka Falls, which has more than 220,000 litres of water bursting over it every second. Further upstream, you can choose to dangle from a piece of elastic over the river gorge at Taupo Bungy, plunging off the 44-metre platform. If that doesn’t feed your fear quite enough, lucky for you, Taupo is also the tandem skydiving capital of the southern hemisphere. Jump out of a plane from either 12,000 or 15,000 feet and witness spectacular views of the lake and mountains while free falling back to earth. If all this sounds a little much, there are plenty of more mellow activities, such as kayaking to the contemporary Maori carvings on the western side of the lake, visiting nearby thermal park Orakei Korako for a river cruise to bubbling mud pools and steaming geysers, or taking a swing at either of the two world-class golf courses in town – Wairakei Resort or the Jack Nicklausdesigned, Kinloch Golf Club.

is fun for the pros and all the family alike. If one field isn’t enough, travel around the mountain to Turoa, and experience Australasia’s longest vertical descent. Rest up after a long day on the slopes in the township of Ohakune (which is, oddly, New Zealand’s carrot-growing capital!). With a lively après-ski scene, complete with a number of bars with log fires, as well as a constant flux of popular bands on tour for the winter season, you will be sure to keep both warm and entertained here through those long cold nights. In the summer months, you can try one of New Zealand’s great walks – the Tongariro Crossing. This day hike is not for the faint hearted, but the effort is entirely worth it for the views alone, as you will traverse across the steep volcanic terrain of the South and Red Craters nestled between the Tongariro and Ngauruhoe Mountains (which you may recognise as Mount Doom from The Lord of the Rings). Looking down onto the spectacular Emerald Lakes, this hike is a challenging, yet rewarding accomplishment for any visitor to the area. Whatever you do, don’t leave the plateau without reeling in a mighty catch. Here the trout average about two kilograms each and they taste jolly fine after a stint in the smoker. Not only is the thrill of the hunt gratifying, but who wouldn’t enjoy whiling away some peaceful hours amid native forests, knee-deep in some of the freshest water in the world, while listening to the local tui birds sing? Heavenly. With its spectacular scenery and adrenaline-pumping activities, there is no doubt the essence of the Central Plateau lies in its undeniable energy; so there would seem to be no other choice than to let the adventures begin! w

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For a taste of the wilderness, you can mountain bike or hike the geothermal site Craters of the Moon, which is an area of steaming rocky outcrops and native bush, or join the happy throng of bathers at Spa Park, indulging in the natural hot river pools alongside the cooling waters of the Waikato. The Taupo township itself boasts a number of unique galleries with contemporary and traditional arts. You also can browse ovine offerings at the wool stores, which stock fleecy paraphernalia for all. There are a number of cafés serving home-baked goods and fresh salads – just what you need after a thrill-seeking day of adrenaline! Taupo hosts a number of major events throughout the year, including Ironman New Zealand, which is held during the first week of March. Primed athletes from over 35 different countries descend on the town to swim, bike and run around the lake – it is a spectacle to behold and the whole town gets involved, with one in every 10 volunteering to help out on the big day. The Lake Taupo Cycle Challenge is another premier sporting attraction of the region and is held in November. Over 10,000 riders compete, making this New Zealand’s largest cycling event. South of this great lake lies the Ruapehu region, a sleepy rural area, dedicated to taking advantage of its natural wonders. In the winter months of June to August, Mount Ruapehu, standing at 2797 metres, holds New Zealand’s largest ski field, Whakapapa, which is a veritable feast of runs for the alpine inclined. Situated on an active volcano, Whakapapa has a range of terrain from black diamond runs and easily accessible back country, to a well-groomed learner’s basin – there

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Crater Lake © Visit Ruapehu

Lower North Island

Must Do’s

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RAINBOW SPRINGS From its latest Big Splash water ride exploring New Zealand’s ecological evolution, to nursery and hatchery viewing (open 10am–4pm daily), walks through the extensive stands of native and imported forest, the feeding of the wild trout who’ve travelled up the Kaiakuri Stream to the Rainbow Pool, Rainbow Springs is also home to many species of native birds. This has remained a favourite family destination for the past 80 years. Location: 192 Fairy Springs Road, Fairy Springs, Rotorua Tel: +64 7 350 0440 www.rainbowsprings.co.nz MUSEUM OF NEW ZEALAND TE PAPA TONGAREWA With permanent collections spanning five areas: Art, History, Pacific, Maori and Natural Environment, Te Papa Tongarewa is New Zealand’s impressive national museum. This innovative space also features exhibitions that are interdisciplinary and interactive, creating a dynamic environment that best represents the community. Location: 55 Cable Street, Wellington Tel: +64 4 381 7000 www.tepapa.govt.nz

THE WELLINGTON UNDERGROUND MARKET Happening every Saturday between 10am and 4pm, anything can be found at this creative hub run by Wellington Creative. You’ll find designer fashion, handmade jewellery, screen-printed lamps, children’s clothes, unique sweets, decorative cupcakes, delectable jams, live music and so much more. Location: Frank Kitts carpark, under Frank Kitts Park, Wellington Waterfront, Wellington Tel: 021 389 369 www.undergroundmarket.co.nz WELLINGTON ZOO Visit New Zealand’s first zoo to get up close and personal with native treasures and endangered exotic animals, with more than 500 animals calling Wellington Zoo home. Established in 1906, Wellington Zoo is dedicated to promoting the need to have a sustainable existence between people and animals. There are various special activities available including close encounter tours with cheetahs, giraffes, big cats and red pandas, as well as sleepovers at the zoo. Location: 200 Daniell Street, Newtown, Wellington Tel: +64 4 381 6755 www.wellingtonzoo.com

ZEALANDIA 80 million years in the making, experience a glimpse of what New Zealand’s habitat was like before humans arrived. The Karori Sanctuary aims to restore a corner of the land back to its former natural glory by creating a haven for native flora and fauna. Walk among beautiful bushland and view some of the country’s most iconic native animals, including the little spotted kiwi. Location: 31 Waiapu Road, Karori, Wellington Tel: +64 4 920 9200 www.visitzealandia.com MUSEUM OF WELLINGTON CITY & SEA This is Wellington’s city museum, celebrating Wellington’s social, cultural and maritime history. Housed in the historic Bond Store, the original architecture complements the exhibitions of precious objects and remarkable technology. Location: Queens Wharf, 3 Jervois Quay, Wellington Tel: +64 4 472 8904 www.cablecarmuseum.co.nz/ museum-of-wellington-city-and-sea CARTER OBSERVATORY Located at the top of the Botanic Gardens, the Carter Observatory features a fulldome planetarium offering regular shows with virtual tours of the local skies; a multimedia display of early Polynesian and European navigation, Maori cosmology; and some of New Zealand’s finest telescopes and astronomical artefacts. Open from 10am daily. Location: 40 Salamanca Road, Kelburn Tel: +64 4 910 3140 www.carterobservatory.org 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. Location: Whanganui National Park, Central North Island Tel: + 64 7 895 5995 www.whanganuinationalpark.com

WAITOMO ADVENTURES Lose yourself in a subterranean wonderland as you discover hidden cave formations and fascinating glow-worms. Waitomo Adventures allows you to access this aweinspiring environment and take part in the action and excitement of caving adventures. Float down an underground river, immerse yourself into the belly of the cave or partake in a 100-metre abseil into a cavern. Location: Waitomo Caves Road, Waitomo Tel: +64 7 878 7788 www.waitomo.co.nz

Wellington Underground Market. © Wellington Creative

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

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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 past snowcapped volcanoes to the beautiful Lake Taupo shore. Location: Taupo Airport , 1105 Anzac Memorial Dr, Wharewaka, Taupo Tel: +64 7 377 0428 www.taupotandemskydiving.com

Welcome to

Wellington

New Zealandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s vibrant capital proves to be a charming composition of cosmopolitan city life and outdoor appeal, explains Lilly Moyle.

From The Rocks. ÂŠ Gavin Urquhart

Wellington Harbour. © Positively Wellington Tourism

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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 loveable quaintness. 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, however, established itself as a mecca of arts and film in New Zealand and so has become a melting pot, where politics meets art and strikes a charming balance.

There are two distinct geographic facts that set Wellington apart from the rest of the country – it is very windy and hilly. ‘Windy Welly’, as it is often called, is centred on the picturesque and 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. It is compact and easy to navigate on foot, but hills are unavoidable, so you must be prepared for a bit of huff and puff. With 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 coastal 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,

The national museum of New Zealand, Te Papa, is a mustsee 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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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 also has a thriving coffee culture spilling out onto its streets and, due to its close proximity to neighbouring wine regions, quality wine is never far away. Cuba Street is the bohemian quarter where you can find world-class hospitality and quality coffee, while the Wellington Market is filled with the 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 entertainers who can be found on just about any street corner throughout the year.

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WELLINGTON

Map courtesy Hema Maps New Zealand Reproduced with permission from Lonely Planet Publications ÂŠ 2011.

Take away something creative. Take home your own piece of inspiration from Te Papa Store. You’ll ﬁnd amazing one-off NZ artworks, exquisite jewellery and beautifully illustrated books. Visit and discover this creative and welcoming shopping destination.

Te Papa, Cable St, Wellington Open 9am–6pm daily and until 9pm Thur Phone: (04) 381 7013 Kirkcaldie and Stains, 34 Brandon St Open 9.30am–5.30pm Mon-Thur, 9.30am–6pm Fri, 10am–5pm Sat, 10am–4pm Sun Phone: (04) 472 5899 ext 7600 tepapastore.co.nz

A Perfect Day Around Wellington

Welcome To shows you how to spend a leisurely day around a few of Wellington’s finest regions.

9am Jackson Street, Petone has grown over recent years to be the Hutt Valley’s number one attraction for visitors. Walk the heritage streets and discover the mix of old buildings with funky cafes, galleries and boutique shopping. The retail strip here is one of the finest.

10:30am Be inspired at The Dowse Art Museum with its diverse program of local and international exhibitions, and learn about the earliest days of the New Zealand region at the Petone Settlers Museum and the Wainuiomata Historical Museum.

12noon It’s time for a drink or two. Follow the classic New Zealand Wine Trail through some of the area’s gorgeous surrounds. Wineries around Martinborough at Ata Rangi and Margrain Vineyard do the cellar door thing beautifully.

3pm With plenty of specialist shops showcasing local wine and produce, you’ll also find gorgeous boutique shopping and day spas for those looking to break up the wine tour.

6pm Walk through the Deli/Café to Grandmas Kitchen, serving high teas on weekends and public holidays, but be sure to book ahead. Relax here for a while before you start pondering a private dining option at Tirohana Colonial House for that extra special occasion.

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1:30pm Move on through to Vynfields Café/Winebar for a gourmet lunch. Try one of their specialist terrines: Venison terrine with four spices, wild boar and juniper or duck and mushroom.

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THE HUTT VALLEY Wellington’s Outdoor Playground Tel: +64 4 5 60 4715 Email: info@huttvalleynz.com www.huttvalleynz.com As the first place of organised settlement in New Zealand, Hutt Valley is filled with amazing New Zealand history. Just north of Wellington you can discover the country’s first lighthouse, first dam and learn about the arrival of the New Zealand company’s first ships. The outdoor haven also mixes old stories with new culture, courtesy of cutting-edge art at The Dowse Art Museum and a tasty food scene in Petone. Excellent beaches wrap around the upmarket seaside villages of Days Bay and Eastbourne. There are so many stories along this coast including shipwrecks and taniwha (Maori mythological creatures); no wonder writers like Katherine Mansfield have been influenced by this magnificent stretch of coast. Ferry across to Matiu/Somes Island and discover its extraordinary history. Hire a bike, take a quad-bike expedition or just walk the many trails to capture panoramic views through valleys, across Wellington Harbour and down to the Southern Alps.

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Shopping

in Wellington

Ally Everard finds Wellington to be a shopper’s paradise and a treasure trove of stylish fashions, creative arts and culinary delights. OLD BANK This restored Heritage-listed building oozes charm and luxury with its high-end boutiques and cafés. Prepare to be spoilt for choice in the presence of many well-known Kiwi designers. For gifts and accessories with a unique New Zealand flavour head to Luminary, but if it’s the latest in fashion you’re after a visit to Ruby is a must. Location: 233-237 Lambton Quay Tel: +64 4 922 0600 www.oldbank.co.nz

REAL AOTEAROA REAL Aotearoa seeks the best artwork from throughout the country so that you can discover pieces from the heart of New Zealand in their gallery store. See their diverse range of jewellery, glass, ceramics, maori carving and more. Location: 1 Grey Street (opposite the InterContinental Hotel) Tel: +64 4 471 1561 www.realaotearoa.co.nz

Shopping bag one:

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LAMBTON QUAY Full of old world charm, this shopping precinct attracts shoppers with its vibrant and lively atmosphere. Situated right in the CBD, Lambton Quay is where you can find the best New Zealand has to offer in terms of fashion, food and entertainment. Harbour City Shopping Centre and Custom House Quay are also worth a look for a boutique fashion experience. THE VAULT With 70% of The Vault’s delectably crafted goods made in New Zealand, a further 4% are also designed in New Zealand. Buying local is the ethos here with their dedication to helping to keep the local creative community in work being another charming characteristic of the business. With its retail spaces built with equally unique artistic atmospheres, many are personally designed by the creators of The Vault, Philip and Sarah Solaris. Location: 2 Plimmer Steps, Lambton Quay Tel: +64 4 471 1404 www.thevaultnz.com

KIRKCALDIE AND STAINS Established in 1863, Kirkcaldie & Stains is a Wellington icon offering four floors of fine shopping and first class service. Imported and local products include men’s, women’s and children’s wear, cosmetics, fashion accessories and luggage, homewares including furniture, linens and kitchenware along with wine, confectionery and food. Location: 165-177 Lambton Quay Tel: +64 4 472 5899 www.kirkcaldies.co.nz

Shopping bag two:

JERVOIS QUAY Head to Jervois Quay to experience the hustle and bustle of a weekend in Wellington, browsing market stalls filled with taste sensations, along with Wellington’s renowned creative flair. At any time Frank Kitts Park, with its harbour views, is a great place to have a picnic, take in the scenery and relax after a day of shopping. HARBOURSIDE MARKET Showcasing the culinary delights of New Zealand every Sunday morning, Wellington’s oldest market will arouse your senses with its abundance of fine coffee, fresh fruit and vegetables, homemade treats and hot food. Location: Corner of Cable and Barnett Streets Tel: +64 4 495 7895 www.harboursidemarket.co.nz

WELLINGTON UNDERGROUND MARKET For the best of Wellington’s creative wares, drop down to the Underground Market which runs every Saturday from 10am to 4pm. Featuring emerging designers, bakers and artists, this market not only displays up-and-coming Kiwi talent, but also provides entertainment in the form of live music. Location: Under Frank Kitts Park, Wellington Waterfront Tel: +64 21 389 369 www.undergroundmarket.co.nz

Shopping bag three:

CUBA MALL AND CUBA STREET Considered to be Wellington’s bohemian precinct, Cuba Mall and Cuba Street are bustling with boutiques, bars, cafés, arts and craft, music shops and galleries. Cuba Street also has bragging rights on a number of award-winning restaurants, including Logan Brown. Cuba Street is especially known for its high-end second hand boutiques, which pretty much have something for everyone. EMMA One of Cuba Street’s newest additions is fashion store Emma, the brainchild of local designer Emma Wallace, who runs the store herself. This little couture gem provides unique fashion and incorporates quality materials and design techniques. As well as supporting a love of fashion, this boutique also supports emerging Wellington designers by stocking their accessories, jewellery and swimwear. Location: 268 Cuba Street, Te Aro, Wellington Tel: +64 4 802 4179 www.emmacollections.com ABSTRACT DESIGNS If you’re after luxurious homewares and jewellery, a visit to Abstract Designs is essential. Most items are Wellington designed and produced, and are inspired by New Zealand’s flora and fauna. From wall art to earrings, products are made from a range of materials, including resin and stainless steel – it will only take one look around this store to see it is one of Wellington’s finest. Location: 125 Cuba Mall, Wellington Tel: +64 4 385 7511 www.abstractdesign.co.nz

KAREN WALKER You can’t talk about New Zealand fashion without mentioning Karen Walker. Her designs have become internationally known and the quality and style of her clothes speak volumes about her unique eye for fashion.

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BLAIR AND WAKEFIELD STREETS You’ll feel as though Blair and Wakefield Streets were created just for you, as they are filled with boutiques catering to all your personal shopping needs.

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Shopping bag four:

Walker’s Wakefield Street boutique speaks for itself – particularly with the alligator on the roof that oozes creativity and style. And the clothes follow suit. Location: 126 Wakefield Street Tel: +64 4 499 3558 www.karenwalker.com SOUP If recycled and pre-loved is your cup of tea, then Soup is the place to be. With the most eclectic mix of second-hand fashion New Zealand has to offer, this boutique believes in fashion recovery. The walls are lined with high-end glamour including Armani, Christian Dior and Zambesi. Stock changes daily, so you can be sure to always find a special addition for your wardrobe. Location 8 Blair Street, Wellington Tel: +64 4 385 4722 www.soup.net.nz

QUOIL Contemporary New Zealand Jewellery Gallery 149 Willis St (btw Manners & Dixon St) Tel: +64 4 384 1499 www.quoil.co.nz 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. Visit the fabulous QUOIL online gallery if time is short. Opening hours: Mon - Fri 10.00am to 5.30pm Sat - Sun 10.00am to 4.00pm Cherry Blossom necklace by Rebecca Fargher

Shopping bag five:

PETONE Foodies and shopaholics can all enjoy the picturesque area of Petone. Delightful coffee shops and cafés on every corner combine with an enticing mix of art galleries, bookstores and fashion boutiques, and all of this is only a short drive from the Wellington city centre. BOOKFEAST Kiwi owned and run, this bookstore must be in the dreams of every food lover, as there are food and wine books here for all ages, as well as cooking utensils and gifts. One highlight of the store is the kitchen at the back where local and international chefs give demonstrations. Location: 173 Jackson Street Tel: +64 4 576 0486 www.bookfeast.com

Shopping bag six:

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JOHNSONVILLE SHOPPING CENTRE Take State Highway 1 north towards Porirua. Exit at Johnsonville. Continue down Johnsonville Road until you reach Johnsonville Shopping Centre on your left. Shopping heaven awaits you. Johnsonville Shopping Centre has free carparking to accommodate over 500 vehicles. The entrance to the carpark is accessed via Broderick Road, Moorefield Road and Bill Cutting Place

Wool neck cuff by Victoria McIntosh Pohutukawa Leaf brooches by Tania Patterson

JOHNSONVILLE SHOPPING CENTRE A great selection of fashion, gift and household stores all reside within Johnsonville’s premier shopping complex. Gloria’s, Hallenstein’s, Hannahs, Viva, Pagani, Wild South, Ziera to name but a few offer everything you need in the one vast centre of shopping excellence. w Location: 34 Johnsonville Road, Johnsonville Tel: +64 4 478 5850 www.johnsonvilleshoppingcentre.co.nz

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JACKSON STREET PETONE Police House 274B Jackson Street Petone, Wellington Tel: +64 4 939 2811 Email: info@jacksonstreet.co.nz www.jacksonstreetpetone.co.nz Jackson Street Petone is a heritage icon offering a shopping experience of old-world charm and modern chic. The retail strip boasts over 200 shops ranging from large retail to owner-operated specialty gift shops, cafés, fashion houses and restaurants. The ambience of Jackson Street sets it apart from other shopping areas with a laid-back village feel in which to stroll – not race. It is this mix of old and new that attracts visitors from New Zealand and overseas alike.

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A mere 15-minutes from downtown Wellington on the harbours’ northern shores, Petone is easy to get to by car (the parking’s free), bus or by train. From Petone it is only a short journey to the many great outdoor activities of Hutt City – find out more at www.huttvalleynz.com. Petone is a journey of discovery; a story behind almost every structure, every small business.

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Dining

inWellington

Welcome To discovers why Wellington is often regarded as one of the world’s premier foodie destinations.

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CHAMELEON 2 Grey Street, Wellington Tel: +64 4 495 7841 www.chameleonrestaurant.co.nz Located on the ground floor of the InterContinental Wellington, Chameleon offers hotel guests and others wishing to drop by a feast for the senses. Luxembourgborn chefs fuse a Japanese-meets-Kiwi inspired menu, with seared tuna, kingfish sashimi and 36-hour cooked Waimarino pork belly on a quince puree being gastronomic trademarks.

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FLORIDITAS 161 Cuba Street, Wellington CBD Tel: +64 4 381 2212 www.floriditas.co.nz While it may be open from morning until night, anytime of the day you visit Floriditas you’ll be guaranteed good food and service. From its strangely alluring breakfast items: porridge with roasted rhubarb and Cointreau to cranberry, papaya and pistachio toasted grain cereal, the chefs also do equally impressive lunches and dinners with the organic pasta and risotto offerings a highlight.

ARBITRAGEUR 125 Featherston Street, Wellington CBD Tel: +64 4 499 5530 www.arbitrageur.co.nz If you’re in the mood for fine and flavoursome cuisine, this French-inspired oyster bar/wine room/restaurant will not disappoint. You will find intricate dishes such as fish du jour and slow-braised lamb neck moussaka on the menu, matched with impressive cheese and dessert lists. This Cuisine Magazine Award Winner 2011 – Best Metropolitan Casual Dining is a Wellington gem.

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RESTAURANT 88 88 Tory Street, Te Aro, Wellington Tel: +64 4 385 9088 www.restaurant88.co.nz Opened in June 2006 owner/operator Luke Duong wanted to give Wellingtonians what they have been missing – good, honest Vietnamese cuisine. Drawing on over thousands of year’s history, from cultures fused together in one of South East Asia’s most diverse countries, Restaurant 88 presents sumptuous metropolitan Vietnamese flavours. Service, atmosphere, authenticity and style all combine to make Restaurant 88 Wellington’s best kept secret.

MARTIN BOSLEY’S YACHT CLUB RESTAURANT Royal Port Nicholson Yacht Club, 103 Oriental Parade, Wellington Tel: +64 4 920 8302 www.martin-bosley.com The philosophy at Martin Bosley’s, which is to ‘eat what’s in season, eat what’s local and eat what’s fresh’, perfectly translates to the plate, with a delectable selection of flavours served up at this Wellington institution. The house speciality is seafood, which would seem fitting as the restaurant resides on the waterfront with vistas of Wellington and the harbour.

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ARTISAN RESTAURANT AND BAR 12 Bolton Street, Wellington Tel: +64 4 462 3770 www.artisanrestaurant.co.nz Located within the Bolton Hotel, the only Qualmark five-star rated luxury boutique hotel in Wellington, is the equally distinct Artisan. The ideal destination for those either staying at the hotel or visitors in search of something wholesome, Artisan focuses on adorably organic comfort food for the ages.

BOULCOTT STREET BISTRO 99 Boulcott Street, Wellington CBD Tel: +64 4 499 4199 www.boulcottstreetbistro.co.nz Located in an 1876-built Gothic cottage, this bistro exudes an old-world elegance reflected both in its interior design and on its menu. The classic bistro dishes include a gremolata-crumbed calamari for entrée and fi llet béarnaise for main. The citrus-braised ox cheek with thyme gnocchi is also sublime. The Sunday menu brings back old favourites such as roast of the day, lamb shanks and pork chops with a BSB gourmet twist.

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MONSOON POON 12 Blair Street, Wellington CBD Tel: +64 4 803 3555 www.monsoonpoon.co.nz Serving up the exotic tastes and cooking techniques of India, China, Thailand, Vietnam, Malaysia, the Philippines and Indonesia, Monsoon Poon is all but guaranteed to delight you with something new and exciting to your palate. The drinks list has a distinct Asian flavour too with cocktails incorporating the likes of chilli, lime and ginger. There are also Asian beers, which in their characteristic lightness perfectly complement the cuisine. LOGAN BROWN 192 Cuba Street, Wellington CBD Tel: +64 4 801 5114 www.loganbrown.co.nz This prized restaurant houses some of New Zealand’s most exquisite fine dining experiences within its refurbished 1920s-built bank chamber. Owners Al Brown and Steve Logan along with head chef/partner, Shaun Clouston, inspired the menu and layout and now this trio turns out daily culinary perfection. A contemporary cuisine based on classic cooking techniques is a joy to behold. w

PORTOFINO WELLINGTON Portofino brings a bit of Italy to mainland New Zealand. Great food, great service and great fun are what you can expect from this local favourite. We also cater for celebrations, birthday dinners, weddings, romantic meals and families. If you are looking for good Italian food in Wellington, you must visit Portofino, just over the road from the sea. Joins us soon to experience the passion, this wonderful location, nice view and perfect Italian food done in a traditional way.

ww VIADUCT A.13A CUSTOMS STREET WEST T.+64 9 356 7080 MISSION BAY A.71 TAMAKI DRIVE T.+64 9 528 1212 PARNELL A.156 PARNELL ROAD T.+64 9 373 3740 MEADOWBANK A.8 DORCHESTER STREET T.+64 9 528 0088 TAUPO A.28 TUWHARETOA STREET T.+64 7 377 6293 NEW PLYMOUTH A.14 GILL STREET T.+64 6 757 8686 TAKAPUNA A.156 HURSTMERE ROAD T.+64 9 488 0077 WELLINGTON A.33 CUSTOM HOUSE QUAY T.+64 4 499 5060 HEAD OFFICE A.UNIT B, 95-97 CUSTOMS STREET WEST, VIADUCT T.+64 9 373 4704 ADMIN@PORTOFINO.CO.NZ WWW.PORTOFINO.CO.NZ

RESTAURANT 88 – VIETNAMESE CUISINE 88 Tory Street, Te Aro, Wellington Tel: +64 4 385 9088 www.restaurant88.co.nz Owner/operator Luke Duong gives Wellingtonians good, honest Vietnamese cuisine. Blended over thousands of years, from cultures fused together in one of South East Asia’s most diverse countries, comes the cuisine of Restaurant 88. Sumptuous metropolitan Vietnamese ﬂavours, service and atmosphere all get big ticks. Opening hours: Lunch: Thursday - Sunday – 11.30am to 2.30pm, Dinner: Tuesday - Sunday 5.30pm to 10.00pm Bookings Essential.

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MASALA 2-12, Allen Street, Wellington. Tel: +64 4 385 2012 Fax: +64 4 384 5227 MASALA EXPRESS Level1, 180 Lambton quay. Tel: +64 4 992 2246 www.masala.gen.nz We at Masala Café and Bar use the ﬁnest and freshest ingredients available to create each tantalising dish with care and the creativity that quality Indian cuisine demands. Whether it’s a curry at lunch or an exotic dinner, our friendly and knowledgable staff will provide you with ﬁrst class service. Opening hours: Masala Lunch: 11.30am to 2.30pm. Dinner: 5pm to late (Mon–Sun) Opening hours: Masala Express 11am to 5pm (Mon – Fri)

THE WHITE HOUSE RESTAURANT Upstairs, 232 Oriental Parade, Wellington Tel: +64 4 385 8555 Email: info@whr.co.nz www.whr.co.nz Its á la carte, Degustation and Express Bistro lunch menus specialising in local seafood, organic prime meat and game, positions the White House as a premiere eatery. A ﬁnalist in the Cuisine NZ Restaurant of the Year 2011, Fodor’s Choice recently dubbed the venue: “One of the world’s top establishments”. Established 1992. Opening hours: Mon –Tue 5.30pm until late Wed – Sun 11.30am until late

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JUNIPER RESTAURANT & BAR Corner of Johnston & Featherston Street, Wellington Central (Entrance on Johnston Street) Tel: +64 4 499 3668 bookings@juniperrestaurant.co.nz www.juniperrestaurant.co.nz Juniper has a menu that spreads itself temptingly over lunch, and dinner, and has 25 different kinds of gin! That explains the name then with Juniper fruit being the vital ingredient of the drink. Coupling its restaurant nous with a sophisticated central city bar, the cuisine is European with a Paciﬁc and Aotearoa sprinkle. Opening hours: Mon – Fri 10am until late. Saturday 5pm until late. Sunday closed (open for big groups).

Wellington

After Dark

Heather Bloom hits the Wellington boulevards to uncover some nocturnal gems.

BEACH BABYLON 232 Oriental Parade, Oriental Bay Tel: +64 4 801 7717 www.beachbabylon.co.nz This retro-inspired 1970s tropical paradise offers a glimpse into a glamorous era of suntans, decadent fondue dishes and the finest locally grown produce. For the true retro experience try the ‘Tropical Hurricane’, a mix of Bacardi, fresh guava, mango nectar, passionfruit and lime. It’s a perfect addition to a day of endless sunshine.

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HAWTHORN LOUNGE 82 Tory Street, Wellington Tel: +64 4 809 3724 www.hawthornlounge.co.nz If you’re looking for a quiet place to settle with a fine aperitif next to a roaring fire, then look no further than the Hawthorn Lounge on Tory Street. Tucked away behind the hustle and bustle of Wellington’s CBD, the venue is a 1920s-style throwback to flapper fashion, big band sounds, leather lounges and waistcoated bartenders. MATTERHORN 106 Cuba Street, Te Aro Tel: +64 4 384 3359 www.matterhorn.co.nz What began as a contemporary cafe in 1963, has kept up with the cosmopolitan culture of Wellington over the times. Two Swiss brothers who brought authentic Swiss cuisine to the Kiwi city built Matterhorn, and now, almost 50 years later, the Matterhorn is still the place to see and be seen by New Zealand’s elite set.

CHOW Level 1, 45 Tory Street, Wellington Tel: +64 4 382 8585 www.chow.co.nz With a kitchen that never closes before midnight, Chow is the perfect place for a late dinner after enjoying one of Wellington’s other cultural delights. The Asian-inspired menu at Chow is brimming with light-as-air salmon parcels, spicy curries and sticky deserts. And the gluten-free and vegetarian options make Chow accessible for even the most discerning connoisseur. The Apocalypse Meow and Feng Shui Lemonade are beverages of interest. MOTEL BAR Level 1/4 Forresters Lane, Te Aro Tel: +64 4 384 9084 www.motelbar.co.nz If you’re very quiet you can just hear the tinkling sound of champagne glasses being touched together in quiet celebration of Motel Bar’s glamorous and decadent setting. Listen closely again and the faint resonance of a martini being shaken to perfection and poured into a glass will draw you into a hidden alleyway to an unassuming wooden door and into a world of magical proportions, where the cocktail is king and patrons are its humble servants. MIGHTY MIGHTY Cuba Mall, 104 Cuba Street, Te Aro Tel: +64 4 385 2890 www.mightymighty.co.nz From burlesque dancers, to roller-skating ukulele orchestras, there is a never-ending supply of weird and wonderful acts walking, skating and tap dancing their way through the door at Mighty Mighty. A haven for creative types or anyone with a sense of adventure, don’t miss your chance to discover the brightest side of Wellington after the sun goes down.

CONCRETE BAR & RESTAURANT Cable Car Lane, Lambton Quay Tel: +64 4 473 7427 www.concretebar.co.nz Providing the very best in customer service, the staff at Concrete Bar & Restaurant are friendly and know their pinot gris from their pinot noir. Whether you stop in for a quick coffee or stay all night for dinner and drinks, Concrete Bar & Restaurant is a sophisticated venue with impressive local food and wine, celebrating the best New Zealand has to offer. JET BAR 36 Courtenay Place, Wellington Tel: +64 4 803 3323 www.jetbar.co.nz Whether you want a cheeky nightcap or a raging night out, the Jet Bar in Wellington offers you the lot. Two separate bar areas sort the partygoers from the relaxed drinkers and ensure that guests receive the best of both worlds. DJs get the Jet flying on the weekend and everyone can enjoy the eclectic range of music and extensive drinks list. DUKE CARVELL’S NUMBER 6 SWAN LANE EMPORIUM 6 Swan Lane, Wellington Tel: +64 4 385 2240 www.dukecarvell.co.nz Named after European nobleman Duke Carvell, ‘The Duke’s’ title and affording claim to nobility was vague at the best of times. Known for his travels across the Mediterranean, the menu at Duke Carvell’s is inspired by the spicy Mediterranean fare and heavily influenced by Spanish delicacies and proper old fashioned country cooking, enough to warm your heart and fill your belly.

RED SQUARE 28 Blair Street, Wellington Tel: +64 4 802 4244 www.redsquare.co.nz Seductive, strong and instantly recognisable, red is the first colour the human eye is drawn to, and Red Square is as alluring as a red cape is to a bull. Stylish yet relaxed, the ‘red’ themed cocktail menu is more than a gimmick. Red Square has taken the time to create a striking list of delicious fuchsia-coloured beverages to satiate your need for all things red.

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JUNIPER RESTAURANT & BAR 1/142 Featherston Street, Wellington Tel: +64 4 499 3668 This is fusion cuisine at its discrete finest. Incorporating Asian, Pacific and European flavours, Juniper presents unpretentious modern New Zealand-style dishes, a comprehensive wine list, some 50-plus cocktails and even 25 types of gin! Interesting. w

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While the ‘mainland’ has a 33% larger landmass than the North Island, the human population on South Island is significantly less. Nevertheless a burgeoning tourism industry is alive in the South with thrill-seekers chasing adventure via glacier climbing and bungy jumping, tramping, kayaking and camping. Numerous walking and hiking paths are for those who wish to relax and take in the sights, while in town its Dunedin, Queenstown and a rebuilding Christchurch who fly the flag charmingly for New Zealand’s south…

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QUEENSTOWN WINTER FESTIVAL 22 June to 1 July 2012 The Queenstown Winter Festival celebrates 38 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

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NEW ZEALAND INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL Dunedin 27 July to 12 August, Christchurch 9 to 26 August 2012 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

OTAGO FESTIVAL OF THE ARTS 5 to 14 October 2012 This biennial boutique festival concentrates on a range of quality artistic acts, including dance, music, circus, comedy and street art, set to the backdrop of Dunedin’s traditional 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

FRENCH FEST AKAROA

HOKITIKA WILDFOODS FESTIVAL

November 2012 Celebrate Akaroa’s French heritage at the biennial French Fest, highlighting 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 in New Zealand in the 19th century. Location: Various venues throughout Akaroa Tel: +64 3 941 8349 www.frenchfest.co.nz

9 March 2013 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, as well as huhu grubs and even horse semen shots! There is also live entertainment and market stalls. Location: Hokitika Tel: +64 3 756 9048 www.wildfoods.co.nz

SPEIGHT’S COAST TO COAST 8 to 9 February 2013 Spanning from the South Island’s west coast to its east coast, this is one of the country’s longest sporting events. Competitors cross the 243 kilometres on bike, foot and kayak. All entrants must qualify before 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

FESTIVAL OF CYCLING 1 to 2 December 2012 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 WORLD BUSKERS FESTIVAL 17 to 27 January 2013 For nearly two decades, 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 locations throughout Christchurch Tel: +64 3 377 2365 www.worldbuskersfestival.com

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ARROWTOWN AUTUMN FESTIVAL 12 to 21 April 2013 Once a thriving gold mining centre, Arrowtown reflects the character of this region’s rich heritage. Held over 10 days, and soon to approach its 30th year, 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

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INTERNATIONAL ANTARCTIC CENTRE Experience an Antarctic wonderland at the International Antarctic Centre without having to brave the icy-cold winds of the South Pole. There is a range of educational and interactive activities including the Snow and Ice Experience and the Hagglund Ride, which simulates riding across the rough landscape of the Antarctic. Another highlight includes the Penguin Encounter, where you can view the adorable Little Blue Penguins. Location: 38 Orchard Road, Christchurch Airport, Christchurch Tel: +64 3 353 7798 www.iceberg.co.nz CADBURY WORLD One of New Zealand’s most delicious attractions, located in the centre of Dunedin, is Cadbury World. The Cadbury World tour is a chocolatelover’s dream, providing visitors with the opportunity to taste, smell and learn all about the history of chocolate. The full tour will take roughly 75 minutes and provide enough fuel for an entire day’s sugar high. Location: 280 Cumberland Street, Dunedin Tel: +64 3 467 7967 www.cadburyworld.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 collections. The Otago Museum has something for the whole family. Location: 419 Great King Street, Dunedin Tel: +64 3 474 7474 www.otagomuseum.govt.nz HANMER SPRINGS THERMAL POOLS AND SPA The Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools and Spa 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. Location: 42 Amuri Avenue, Hanmer Springs Tel: +64 3 315 0000 www.hanmersprings.co.nz AORAKI MOUNT COOK NATIONAL PARK Aoraki Mount Cook National Park gives you the opportunity to get up close and personal with two of New Zealand’s

most astonishing natural treasures – the country’s largest glacier, Tasman Glacier, and the country’s highest peak, Mount Cook, which reaches a staggering 3754 metres. Hiking, skiing, mountain biking and scenic flying are just some of the activities available to visitors to the national park. Location: Mackenzie District www.doc.govt.nz STEWART ISLAND With 85 percent of the island covered by the Rakiura National Park, it’s no wonder life here is so laidback. 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 remaining places you can see a kiwi in the wild. Fly over or take the one-hour ferry ride from Bluff, on the mainland. Location: 30 kilometres south off the South Island Tel: +64 3 219 1049 www.stewartisland.co.nz MILFORD SOUND Step into a world where giant mountains stand tall out of the sea, where mist blankets thick forest and gushing waterfalls burst out of low hanging clouds – 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. Location: Corner Town Centre and Mokonui Streets, Te Anau Tel: +64 3 249 7416 www.realjourneys.co.nz ABEL TASMAN NATIONAL PARK Abel Tasman National Park is New Zealand’s only coastal national park, renowned for its golden beaches, sculptured granite cliffs and world-famous Abel Tasman Coast Track. Appreciate the unique features of the area on the popular Abel Tasman guided walk or try

sea kayaking along the protected coastline. Alternatively, you could take a boat tour and experience a scenic journey in style, discovering beaches with the largest tidal range in the country. Location: Top of the South Island Tel: +64 3 525 8026 www.doc.govt.nz/parks-and-recreation/ national-parks/abel-tasman/ WORLD OF WEARABLEART AND CLASSIC CARS MUSEUM There is literally something for everyone at this museum in the heart of quaint, arty Nelson. You will find an array of classic cars kept in pristine condition alongside displays of some of the weird and wonderful costumes from the annual Brancott Estate World of WearableArt™ Awards. You will certainly be entranced by a showcase of colour, texture and intricate detail. Location: Cadillac Way off Quarantine Road, Annesbrook, Nelson Tel: +64 3 547 4573 www.wowcars.co.nz

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 TROUT FISHING The South Island has been described as a fly fishing paradise with glaciated valleys flowing with crystal clear rivers and streams and truly breathtaking views. Take a guided fly fishing tour, where you can sight, stalk and fish large brown and rainbow trout. Location: Glenorchy, 40 kilometres from Queenstown Tel: +64 275 226 966 www.trout-stalkers.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. Location: Tex Smith Lane, Frankton, Queenstown Tel: +64 3 451 0001 or 0800 FLY ALPINE (359 257) www.alpinechoppers.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. Location: Peel Forest, South Canterbury Tel: +64 3 696 3534 www.rafts.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 Mud House. 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. Location: North Canterbury www.waiparawine.co.nz

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AKAROA Akaroa offers the opportunity of a lifetime to swim with the world’s smallest and rarest dolphins, the Hector’s dolphins, which can be found at Akaroa Harbour, the flooded crater of an extinct volcano. www.akaroa.com

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OTAGO RAIL TRAIL Choose to walk, cycle or horse-ride through this pristine and stunning scenery –150 kilometres of some of the country’s most stunning landscape. Location: Trail runs between Middlemarch and Clyde www.otagorailtrail.co.nz

Welcome to

Marlborough & Nelson

Heather Bloom finds a sunny disposition amid the enchanting scenery, vast vineyards and artistic towns found at the top of the South Island.

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ere at the tip of New Zealand’s South Island is Marlborough, one of the sunniest places on earth. Renowned as the country’s sunshine capital, Marlborough and its surrounding provinces – Nelson, Blenheim and Golden Bay – are all privy to some of the nation’s finest food, wine and spectacular scenery. Glorious mist-covered mountains give way to stunning golden beaches and crystal clear waters, where spending a day lazing on the beach could mean more hours of sun than you bargained for! Nelson’s artistic community with its deep appreciation of the region’s culture and heritage has kept the town in immaculate condition, all so you can while away the hours on some home-grown world-class sauvignon blanc or head to the hills and take in the spectacular neverending horizon of the South Island. The Marlborough wine region has almost become New Zealand’s exclusive producer of sauvignon blanc and is a wine buff’s haven. The region boasts 9550 hectares (23,600 acres) of vineyards and you could easily spend your entire trip touring different cellar doors and experiencing the delightful flavours of the South Island’s finest vintages.

Home of renowned wine producers such as Cloudy Bay Wines and the Allan Scott Family Winemakers, Marlborough cannot be better experienced than with a glass of vino in one hand and some delicious local produce in the other. Said to have been planting grape varieties since 1870, Marlborough currently provides New Zealand with 79 percent of the country’s wine production. Recently expanding into the slightly cooler climates of Awatere Valley on the south-east side of the region, Marlborough’s bright, yet cool climate also produces rich pinot noirs and fruity chardonnays. So, regardless your drop of choice, Marlborough’s varied range of grape varieties will have you wining your way throughout the entire region. If you’re worried about overindulging on the abundance of local delicacies, then there are more than a few ways to work off calories as you tramp (a New Zealander word for trek or hike) along the countryside’s stunning natural tracks and take in the pristine native bushland and the sparkling blue waters of the Tasman Sea. Most of the region’s finest beaches are only accessible either by foot or boat, and every step of the journey to one of these spots is an enjoyable one. The Abel Tasman

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Residing on the eastern shores of the Tasman Bay is Nelson, the economic and cultural centre of the Nelson Tasman region. Established in 1841, Nelson is the second oldest city in New Zealand and the first site to be colonised in the South Island. Locals are affectionately called Nelsonians and the town is rich in heritage and culture. Nelsonians take a deep pride in their artistic community and the town is referred to as the creative arts centre of New Zealand. Much of the abundant array of jewellery, paintings, drawings and sculptures has been inspired by the natural landscape of this wondrous part of the world, and there is no doubting that Nelson is an artistic paradise full of unique and quirky pieces of traditional and modern art. Nelson city is also the official home of the Jens Hansen Gold and Silversmith workshop where ‘The One Ring’ from the Lord of the Rings trilogy was crafted, and visitors to the workshop have the opportunity to take home a piece of this handcrafted beauty with original designs available for purchase. Marlborough and Nelson are stunning regions of New Zealand, brimming with crystal clear waters, mist-covered mountains, craggy cliffs and spectacular views of Tasman Bay. Whether you climb to the top of a mountain peak or float away across a blue lagoon, this part of the world will leave you breathless with its enchanting beauty and endless sunlight. w

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Coast Track is one of the Department of Conservation’s ‘Great Walks’ and stretches for 53 kilometres past aquamarine lagoons, limestone cliffs and golden beaches. Fur seals also inhabit the area, greeting tourists and visitors with their playful nature and sleek shiny coats. For the wild at heart, Kahurangi National Park is home to 570 kilometres of tracks suitable for tramping and spans 452,000 hectares from Golden Bay through Murchison and Tapawera to the west coast of the South Island. Kahurangi is also home to the largest population of the Great Spotted Kiwi in the country, as well as being the site of many scenes filmed for The Lord of the Rings trilogy, which can viewed from above with a helicopter ride over the stunning natural scenery. The Te Waikoropupu Springs are one of nature’s most magnificent spectacles and are located near the Golden Bay township of Takaka. Te Waikoropupu is a special place of chambers, underground caves, sinkholes and some of the purest waters ever measured by man; it is also an area held in high spiritual regard by Maori. Millions of years old, the valley of Te Waikoropupu is an untouched example of New Zealand’s fine natural history. It is requested that visitors treat Te Waikoropupu with the respect and care required in order to preserve its unique beauty for years to come.

Welcome to

The West Coast

Heather Bloom wanders across the rocky, rustic and isolated West Coast to experience yet another stunning take on the New Zealand landscape.

n untamed and rugged paradise lies waiting patiently to be explored on the South Island’s West Coast. Remarkably kept in pristine condition, this rocky coast looks just as it did thousands of years ago, and serves as a beautiful reminder of the wonderland that is New Zealand’s natural environment. Tucked between the Southern Alps and the Tasman Sea, the West Coast is a long and narrow stretch of land, which at its widest spans only 70 kilometres. The region is also the homeland of the rare white heron (kotuku), kiwi, fur seal colonies and a plethora of native flora and fauna that will have you gazing in wonder. Rugged mountains meet leafy rainforests and a rocky coastline binds the entire West Coast, creating a captivating and magical place for tourists and locals alike. The West Coast natives or ‘coasters’ take immense care and pride in preserving their home, and around 90 percent of the coast is, in fact, administered by the Department of Conservation (DOC). This respect for the natural environment means that sustainable tourism is an important factor for coasters, and they have gained a reputation as one of the best destinations in the country for luxury eco accommodation. Birds Ferry Lodge in Charleston (25 minutes’ drive south of Westport), for example, has a Qualmark Enviro-Gold rating for environmental sustainability, allowing visitors to truly escape from the

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distractions of city life and retreat into a simpler, more organic way of living. The West Coast is also a veritable playground for the nature lover and adventure seeker. Heli-hikes, nature walks, ice climbing and mountaineering are all accessible activities for anyone game enough to tackle one or both of the world’s most beautiful glaciers, Franz Josef Glacier and Fox Glacier, which wind their way through the Southern Alps where they penetrate the rainforests at just 250 metres above sea level. Several local companies run guided tours and visitors are advised to book early to avoid disappointment during the summer peak season (December to February). Once you’ve reached your glacial destination, there is an array of activities to choose from. If skydiving from 9000 to 12,000 feet doesn’t take your fancy, you can enjoy a magical underground setting in the Nile River glow worm caves, where stalactites and stalagmites are lit by a constellation of glow worms, as you glide by in style on one of the rafting tours. Anyone who visits the West Coast is sure to be enchanted by the local wildlife and native animals that inhabit the area. Okarito, just 25 kilometres from Franz Josef, is a bird watching haven. Home to almost 80 species of birds, the Okarito Lagoon, which banks onto the Waitangiroto River, is the only place in the country where the rare white heron (kotuku) breeds. If you’re lucky, you

may also catch a glimpse of the endangered Hector’s dolphin or the Fiordland crested penguin as they thrive in their natural habitat along the coast. In the heart of the West Coast is the Paparoa National Park, a protected environment that resists mining and forestry and allows visitors the opportunity to experience its exclusive features. Limestone landforms coil through the rocky mountain ridges and hidden caves will give the explorer in you the perfect setting from which to stretch your legs (and your imagination) as you discover rivers, caves and the bizarre Punakaiki Pancake Rocks and Blowholes in the heart of the park. Dating back more than 30 million years, these freaks of nature have slowly evolved from rich limestone fragments of dead marine creatures and layers of mud and clay to form flat pancake-looking mounds that once lingered at the bottom of the sea. Earthquakes forced the formations up and above the sea level to where they sit today, and caverns beneath the rocks shoot explosions of seawater through blowholes within them during high tide. After all that rock-climbing, ice-scaling and waterrafting, a well-earned break is certainly in order. Fortunately, the West Coast is also home to the iconic Monteith’s brewery, a family-owned brewery established in 1868. Monteith’s beer and cider can be found across the globe and its home of Greymouth is well-regarded for its strong tasting and full-bodied ales

that will ease a weary traveller and reinvigorate them to do it all again tomorrow. Still brewing their ales by hand, Monteith’s makes small batches that are quality controlled to the highest order, ensuring you get the best tasting beer possible. Tours of the brewery run five times a day during the week, so, for the beer connoisseur, a trip to the Monteith’s brewery is the perfect way to spend a day tasting your way through the country’s finest ales. To complement your cider, the Wildfoods Festival held annually in the township of Hokitika in March is an eclectic and eccentric mix of natives, tourists and the finest in local produce. The town becomes inundated with over 15,000 guests each year, all scrambling to try the latest ‘gourmet bush tucker’ delicacies the area has to offer. Popular gastronomical delights include the West Coast gorse flower wine and whitebait fritters, while the more adventurous may be inclined to try the worm sushi, pickled huhu grubs or the world’s ‘natural Viagra’ – native mountain oysters. Regardless of what takes your fancy, whether it be food or the flavours of the stunning countryside, there is not a piece of the West Coast that won’t enchant the senses and appeal to your every whim. An exceptional place of majestic beauty and rugged charm, the West Coast is a dream destination for nature lovers, adventure seekers and foodies alike. w

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Welcome to

Christchurch & Canterbury

Emily Parker reveals that, despite recent destruction, the heart of Christchurch and Canterbury remains, and a visit to the area will be well rewarded.

hristchurch is better known these days for its devastating earthquakes of 2010 and 2011 than what it should be known for – its indomitable spirit, breathtaking landscapes and quality attractions. It’s true there have been many changes in the city since the shaky events of the past two years, and a cordon remains around much of the city’s Red Zone (although it is slowly shrinking). Many of the city’s iconic architectural attractions such as the Cathedral and Arts Centre are closed indefinitely, but the centre is rebuilding, brick by ambitious brick, and there is definitely a feeling of hope and regeneration in the air. The locals here have long been known for their spirit, which is now more evident than ever with their undeniable passion to rebuild and recover. Christchurch itself has always been a place of beauty and unique character and, although it’s now perhaps a little dustier and more jagged around the edges, it is still worthy of inclusion on any New Zealand itinerary. The city and the wider Canterbury region are situated on the east coast of the South Island, where long plains stretch out from rugged mountains to the ocean beyond, with vineyards to the north, and rich agricultural lands to the middle and south.

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For outdoor enthusiasts, Christchurch is easily the best destination choice, as it is bordered by the Port Hills near Lyttelton, which is popular with downhill mountain bikers, hikers and climbers; fringed to the east by long sweeping sandy beaches popular with surfers and boaters alike and, less than two hours away, lie the Southern Alps, a mecca for snowboarders and skiers in the winter months of June to August. It has to be the only city in New Zealand where you can surf and ski in the same day – conditions obliging! Boasting a newly refurbished International Airport, Christchurch is easily accessible from a number of overseas destinations and its location within New Zealand’s South Island makes it a perfect start and end point for any tour. For those keen to get to the heart of the matter, a visit to the newly created Re:START shopping precinct in the City Mall quarter is a must. A collection of shipping containers tastefully and craftily located at the site of the previous central city shopping mall adds a splash of life and colour to the dusty, grey demolition that continues over the tall fences around them. Thoughtfully planted shrubs and a couple of bustling cafés allow you to enjoy the greenery of the Garden City

vistas you’ve been waiting for – typical New Zealand picture postcard scenes of sheep wandering along dusty roads, as well as the lonely Church of the Good Shepherd sitting aside Lake Tekapo’s vivid turquoise, glacial waters. North of Christchurch, you’ll pass through a number of iconic Kiwi vineyards, from the boutique Pegasus Bay to the lavender gardens at Langdale – these destinations boast a distinct country flavour with fine wine amid a rustic setting. A little bit further inland is Hanmer Springs, a quaint town settled on the site of thermal hot pools, in which you can soak or indulge in spa treatments. The township of Kaikoura clings to the coastline northwest of here, at the upper reaches of the region, and is a great base from which to sample some of the local crayfish – either catch one yourself on a chartered boat or leave the cooking to the experts at one of the many seafood restaurants in town. Once a sleepy fishing village, Kaikoura shot to fame with Whale Watch, an internationally-awarded tourism experience, which takes trips out into the bay to observe these mighty creatures in their natural habitat. It is here you will witness entrancing glimpses of one of nature’s gentle giants against a backdrop of snow-capped mountains and sparkling ocean. Outside of the township, why not try your hand at rafting and take a multi-day tour on the Clarence River, one of the region’s finest rivers, snaking through gorges and flat lands alike – whitewater and the wilderness await you. Christchurch and Canterbury offer visitors an exceptional slice of quintessential Kiwi living, from the high country mountains to the food, wine and hospitality for which the region is famous. The grit and determination of today’s Cantabrians to reignite the region can only be a testament to the toil of its very first settlers to farm the plains, tame the rivers and build a beautiful city by the sea. Don’t miss what generations of love for this ever-changing land have accomplished, come and see it for yourself. w

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– enjoy a classic Kiwi flat white while perusing unique retailers including gift stores, where you can marvel at jewellery crafted from old coins, contemporary artworks and handmade Kiwiana souvenirs, exclusive to the region. Other Christchurch highlights include a trip to the International Antarctic Centre, where you can get up close and personal with the local penguins, shelter in a snow cave or brave the -18 degrees Celsius wind machine – a thoroughly enjoyable experience for those with the will to chill! Alternatively, you can enjoy the Willowbank Wildlife Centre, just six kilometres down the road and home to the native kiwi bird. Or fly a hot-air balloon over the Canterbury Plains for spectacular aerial views of the region or take in New Zealand’s longest running improvised comedy show, Scared Scriptless, at the Court Theatre’s new location, The Shed, next to Hagley Park. Less than a two hours drive south-west from Christchurch is the French provincial township of Akaroa. Nestled among the many bays of the region’s Banks Peninsula (which Captain Cook mistook for an island in his first map of the country), this picturesque village boasts beautiful old villas, streets with names like the aptly titled ‘Rue Jolie’ and fabulous fish and chips! Don’t miss the Fromagerie at Barry’s Bay on the drive down to Akaroa, to sample some of Canterbury’s finest cheeses, or shake out your sea legs and take a boat trip to see some Hector’s dolphins, an endangered species unique to this particular area. Heading further south, you could make a stop at one of the many villages, such as Geraldine, which has a raft of local produce. Sample a slice of Talbot Forest cheese perhaps, topped with a Barker’s chutney or try some organic yoghurt from the Clearwater Organic Dairy Farm at nearby Peel Forest. From here, travel west and you’ll hit the Mackenzie District, named after Jack Mackenzie, a long-time sheep rustler of the high country. Here you’ll see the iconic

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CHRISTCHURCH

Reproduced with permission from Lonely Planet Publications ÂŠ 2011. Map courtesy Hema Maps New Zealand

Shopping

in Christchurch & Canterbury

Cantabrian Mary Erskine lets us in on the best places to visit for souvenirs and retail therapy in her hometown.

Shopping bag one:

Shopping bag two:

AKAROA BARRY’S BAY TRADITIONAL CHEESE 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-style 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, antipasto or local preserve, which are all available in the shop to complement any cheese purchase. Location: Christchurch-Akaroa Road, Barrys Bay, Akaroa Tel: +64 3 304 5809 www.barrysbaycheese.co.nz

THE KORU GALLERY The ‘koru’ in Maori symbolises new life and new beginnings, just as the unravelling of the fern frond (to which the word refers) creates. It is through this spiritual and holistic approach that the Koru Gallery presents and creates the jewellery, gifts, homeware and art it displays. Pounamu (greenstone) carvings are done on-site by resident artist Graeme Wylie, and you will also find paua, blue pearls and bone carvings. Location: 57 Rue Lavaud, Akaroa Tel: +64 3 304 7781 www.thekorugallery.co.nz

Shopping bag three:

HANMER SPRINGS MHOR Top off a relaxing soak in the Hanmer pools with a spot of shopping at Mhor for some contemporary 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, stocking international brands such as Ben Sherman, Diesel and Metalicus, as well as a wide range of Kiwi designers including Vargo, David Pond, Loobie’s Story and Christchurch-designed and made fashion label ArtStyle. w Location: Shop 3, 30 Conical Hill Road, Hanmer Springs Tel: +64 3 315 7705 www.mhor.co.nz

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WESTFIELD RICCARTON SHOPPING CENTRE 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, Witchery and Veronika Maine. If fashion is not your passion, however, then Westfield Riccarton also houses electronic, cosmetic, beauty, sports and homewares brands. Location: 129 Riccarton Road, Riccarton, Christchurch Tel: +64 3 983 4500 www.westfield.co.nz/riccarton

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CHRISTCHURCH RE:START Following the closure of many of the city’s stores after the February 2011 earthquake, Re:START has provided a funky and vibrant new shopping precinct where some of Christchurch’s best and most iconic retailers reside. Names such as Ballantynes, Trelise Cooper and Toi Toi can be found in this innovative containership mall, as well as several cafés to stop in for a coffee or snack. Regular live music performances and street performers set the jovial mood of this unique shopping experience. Location: Cashel Mall, Christchurch www.restart.org.nz

Dining

inChristchurch&Canterbury Mary Erskine tastes her way through the fresh, varied and very epicurean flavours of Christchurch and Canterbury, stopping in at some of the region’s finest restaurants.

PESCATORE The George, 50 Park Terrace, Christchurch Tel: +64 3 371 0257 www.thegeorge.com/pescatore Pescatore offers intimate dining against the backdrop of panoramic views of Hagley Park. Head chef Reon Hobson has an admirable focus on incorporating fresh and seasonal produce into an innovative gourmet menu. He will wow you with a range of dynamic flavours, such those found in the citrus cured Akaroa salmon and the corned duck, which comes complete with raspberry vinegar marshmallow, duck crackling and watercress. ROSSENDALE RESTAURANT AND WINERY 122/136 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 surrounds 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.

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THE LAKES RESTAURANT Clearwater Avenue, Harewood, Christchurch Tel: +64 3 360 1002 www.peppers.co.nz/clearwater/dining Situated at the Peppers Clearwater Resort, The Lakes Restaurant offers a relaxing and enjoyable location 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. PEGASUS BAY WINERY AND RESTAURANT Stockgrove Road, Waipara Tel: +64 3 314 6869 www.pegasusbay.com With a list of accolades, including the ‘winery restaurant of the year’ (Cuisine magazine) for the past four years, it’s hard to go past Pegasus Bay. As an operating vineyard, it’s no wonder the focus here is on having an all-round experience of quality food and wine, with the

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Welcome to

Queenstown

Simone Turner goes deep into the heart of wondrous Queenstown to unearth its soul.

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f a picture is worth a thousand words, then almighty Queenstown is always worth one more. Whether you’re staying in the central avant-garde-style township itself, on the majestic shores of Lake Wakatipu or in the breathtaking alpine region, the alluring scenery will charm you from any perspective. Laced with intriguing history, Queenstown is one of New Zealand’s top tourist destinations and attracts around 1.9 million holidaymakers every year. The lure to this notable town spread eons earlier when the Maori ancestors were drawn to beautiful Lake Wakatipu and the alpine region in search of pounamu (also known as greenstone). During the 1860s, European settlers soon followed their lead, yet were pleasantly surprised to discover an abundance of gold shimmering away in the lake’s waterways! An instant gold rush grew, drawing settlers into the town from many miles away. Following the gold mining camp foundation, 145 years later central Queenstown is now a humming scene with more than 150 cafés, bars and restaurants. Once you’ve found your preferred café, it’s time to discover everything else. No matter what you’re interested in, there really is something for everyone. If you’re creative, you’ll enjoy the town’s decorative art displays in the local galleries and, additionally, the Original Arts and Crafts Market on the lakefront at Earnslaw Park is an

utter treat. Here, many artists from all over New Zealand display their handmade works. You can participate in painting and photography workshops, and even take home your own little masterpiece. Located just five minutes from central Queenstown (with gondola access) is the Skyline Complex. Its number one vote from TripAdvisor for ‘restaurant with incredible views’ – the breathtaking panorama of the Remarkables mountain range, Cecil, Walter and Coronet Peaks, along with Lake Wakatipu – easily confirms why a visit to this significant area is a must. There are parapente flights, walking and hiking paths, mountain bike tracks, and bungy or other such swing activities. For a true cultural lesson, Queenstown’s leading Kapa (‘group’) haka showcases powerful performances every year, enabling tourists to experience the age-old Maori traditions through song and dance. Wondrous Queenstown also comprises numerous roads leading to many more harmonious surroundings. A short 15-minute drive heading west along the State Highway will take you to the second largest lake in New Zealand: the aforementioned Lake Wakatipu. The lake was formed 15,000 years ago during the last ice age by a north-west moving glacier and is surrounded by mountains that run straight into the lake; the highest being Mount Earnslaw.

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& Kitchen. Positioned next to the acclaimed Kawarau Bungy Centre, this pretty ol’ spot has views of the rugged Kawarau Gorge hillsides and the Bridal Veil Waterfall that are sure to leave you with a lasting impression. If you’re visiting during January to April, the Winehouse even stages some of New Zealand’s finest musicians as part of its Winehouse Summer Playground Series. For more recreation, a 15-minute drive heading southwest on the State Highway to Moke Lake will take you to a secluded valley surrounded by native bush, acres of lush country farmland and arresting mountains. Moke Lake is home to many athletic challenges such as the 2XU Triathlon, New World Duathlon and various other sporting events. Holidaying families will also adore taking a brief trip to the Gibbston Harvest Festival, held on the third Saturday of March each year. Here, the adults can indulge in locally grown wine and gourmet food, while the children enjoy various activities – it’s a perfect family day out. For more exploits available all year round, why not try bungy jumping, canyon swinging, jet boating, horse trekking or river rafting? No matter what it is you find yourself doing; Queenstown provides an endless list of cultural, historical and spectacular experiences. A visit to this idyllic environment will implant stunning memories in your heart, mind and soul forever. w

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Reaching 84 kilometres in length and covering 290 square kilometres, the lake is 299 metres at its deepest point. The Maori legend of the lake, a giant named Matau, was burned to death in his sleep, which in turn melted the ice and snow, and hence created the shape of the lake. Deep stuff. While you’re visiting Lake Wakatipu, a cruise on the vintage steamship known as Earnslaw or ‘Lady of the Lake’, will give you a genuine historical experience. Operating since 1912, the steamship was originally a transport for goods, sheep, cattle and passengers to remote areas. In 1984, the Earnslaw was exquisitely refurbished and carried Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Phillip in 1990. Today the steamship runs to the Walter Peak High Country Station and is a grand way to view the burgeoning landscape. During the summer months, Queenstown provides a pleasant swimming locale and boundless trout fishing. More famously, the Queenstown Alpine Resort, situated on the fringes of Lake Wakatipu, is an impressive skiing, snowboarding and heli-skiing location. The best snow months are June to early October and families with young children can also join in the fun by ice skating, snow shoeing or hiring a snowmobile. For fine cuisine dining, a short, scenic 20-minute drive along the State Highway will take you to the Winehouse

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QUEENSTOWN

Map courtesy Hema Maps New Zealand

SHOTOVER JET 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 www.shotoverjet.com World famous as the ultimate jet boat experience, Shotover Jet has thrilled over 3 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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DART RIVER JET SAFARIS 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 www.dartriverjetsafaris.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. 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.

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A Perfect Day Around Queenstown

Welcome To shows you where the good things are among Queenstown’s out-of-towners.

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9am Coffee and a big breakfast at the Woolshed Restaurant and Bar kicks things off quite nicely when visiting Wanaka. There’s just something about this place that relaxes the soul.

10:30am Stuart Landsborough’s Puzzling World offers fun and mystery with illusions and holograms and is host to the world’s first modern-style maze. Lose yourself in the moment.

12noon The weekly Wanaka Farmers’ and Gardeners’ Market on the lakefront offers up anything from honey to bread, organic vegetables to the finest cuts of Cardrona Merino lamb and the best sausages in New Zealand. It’s a great little lunch option.

1:30pm Stroll around one of the largest private collections in the world, with four major buildings housing more than 600 vehicles, 12 aircraft, 30,000 toys and 1000s of miscellaneous items at the National Transport & Toy Museum.

HOLLYFORD TRACK Tel: +64 3 442 3000 Free Phone (within NZ only): 0800 832 226 Email: info@hollyfordtrack.co.nz www.hollyfordtrack.com Just one of Hollyford Track’s many offerings is the scenic heli-hike into the Hollyford Valley. Flying over New Zealand’s most aweinspiring alpine scenery, you’ll enjoy an expert guide-led voyage over Fiordland’s longest swing-bridge, a wilderness jet boat ride and walk among 1000-year-old giant native trees. Includes lunch and journey into Milford Sound, plus a ‘highlight’ touchdown on the glacial plateau of Mt Tutoko.

3pm Enjoy a tour and a drink at Rippon Vineyard or Wanaka’s very own Beerworks Brewery. The European-style handcrafted range of beers include: Brewski – Bohemian Pilsener, Cardrona Gold – Vienna Lager and Tall Black – German Black Beer.

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6pm Finish the day off with a romantic dinner at Botswana Butchery, where local wild rabbit and slow-roasted whole lamb shoulder for two together with a glass of red go down a treat. w

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Shopping

Queenstown

Nyssa Veraphunt finds Queenstown brimming with unique New Zealand mementos. Arts and crafts shopping, central Queenstown © Destination Queenstown

Shopping bag one:

CHURCH LANE TOI O TAHUNA FINE ART GALLERY For authentic New Zealand art, you can’t go past Toi o Tahuna, where you will find a range of paintings, photographs, sculptures and limited edition prints, as well as regular exhibitions by local artists. The gallery also stocks a range of books by Kiwi artists and designers. Location: 11 Church Lane, Queenstown Tel: +64 3 409 0787 www.toi.co.nz

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Shopping bag two:

CHURCH LANE BONZ Standing for Best Of New Zealand, BONZ supplies only the very finest quality New Zealand-made leather coats, jackets, vests and their very own unique Merino and Alpaca handknits. As a gift for yourself or for someone special, you can’t buy better than buying the best. BONZ – Best of New Zealand. Location: 8-10 The Mall, Queenstown Tel: +64 3 442 5398 www.bonz.com.au

Shopping bag three:

BEACH STREET WINE TASTES Wine Tastes offer the ultimate experience for wine buffs, where you can taste test your way through (some of) the 80 different types of New Zealand wine on display. Each year, more than 500 types of wine from 200 local vineyards pass through the door, so you’re sure to fi nd something you like. Finger food is also available to accompany your tasting session and, if you decide to make a purchase, you can even have your wine shipped home. Location: 14 Beach Street, Queenstown Tel: +64 3 409 2226 www.winetastes.co.nz

Shopping bag four:

REES STREET KAPA NEW ZEALAND DESIGN GALLERY Those with a taste for Kiwiana will adore this design store with its range of New Zealand inspired art, homeware, accessories and jewellery. Decorate the home with a Kiwi wall clock or tiki wallpaper. Singer Boh Runga’s signature silver jewellery range has delightful

tui bird pendants and fantail earrings; or a pair of North and South Island cufflinks could turn out to be the perfect gift! Location: 29 Rees Street, Queenstown Tel: +64 3 442 4041 www.kapa.co.nz

Shopping bag five:

FORGE STREET IVAN CLARKE GALLERY Showcasing the work of one of New Zealand’s most highly recognised artists, the Ivan Clarke Gallery is a feast for the eyes. Clarke’s detailed oil paintings perfectly convey New Zealand’s mystical landscape, while his Lonely Dog series of whimsical caricatures are both humorous and breathtaking. Clarke also takes commissions with no obligation to buy. Location: The Forge Building, 35 Forge Street, Queenstown Tel: +64 3 442 5232 www.ivanclarkegallery.com

Shopping bag six:

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EARNSLAW PARK ART AND CRAFT MARKET Every Saturday, Earnslaw Park springs to life with colour, music and live entertainment at this arts and crafts market, which stocks handmade woodwork, stone carvings, paintings, glassware and jewellery. And, even if you don’t come away with a unique gift or souvenir of your travels, you can rest assured that you will have an entertaining visit. w Location: the lakefront at Earnslaw Park Tel: +64 3 409 8663 www.marketplace.net.nz

Dining

in Queenstown

Nick Argyriou finds that with its range of quality restaurants, this adventure town provides as much excitement for foodies as it does for outdoor enthusiasts. WAI WATERFRONT RESTAURANT 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!

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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, which specialises in Kiwi cuisine and local produce, is hard to go past while you’re in town. Regular live entertainment acts and the Skyline Bar offer added attractions.

The Wai Group has a diverse portfolio of restaurants but what’s the one thing that unites them? Setting a high standard of food and service and consistently delivering no matter if it is fine dining or a bite to eat at the cafe. Selecting local suppliers and ensuring that they deliver the best quality fresh produce to us each day so that we can always stand behind our products with pride. Talk us through the intentions behind Post Office Café – the most recent Wai Group venue? The Post Office Café was designed to be used every day – a place where you can have a meeting, stop for a coffee with the kids, or go with a group for breakfast. It’s just a great place for anyone, and any budget. What is the signature dish at Finz Seafood & Grill? At Finz just too many dishes jump out and say eat me, so picking one is difficult. If I’m feeling like a light meal then the turbot with braised fennel and citrus dressing is the one for me, but if I’m hungry then the 400gm grass-fed Angus ribeye on the bone with Café de Paris butter and chips is a sure thing. Oh, and if you love seafood then I recommend sharing the seafood platter. What is your favourite local ingredient to cook with? Wild-shot venison is oh so fresh and just outstanding on Wai’s new menu. SAPPHIRE RESTAURANT 76 Golf Course Road, Wanaka Tel: +64 3 443 1105 www.sapphirerestaurant.co.nz This intimate fine dining space situated by Lake Wanaka, an hour’s drive out of Queenstown, prides itself on serving up the best local produce and wine. The seasonal menu incorporates the likes of Akaroa salmon, Canterbury duck and Fiordland wild venison, while the menu list is as expansive as the views of the nearby golf course and lake. WINNIES 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 Winnies a Queenstown institution. Billed as a ‘World Famous Gourmet Pizza Bar’ you’ll find more than just your standard toppings with its ever-evolving pizza list. Highlights at present include the Morroccan Lamb made with marinated lamb leg fillets with zucchini, red onion and tomato served with Winnies minted yoghurt.

THE BALLARAT TRADING CO. 7-9 The Mall, Queenstown Tel: +64 3 442 4222 www.ballarat.co.nz Welcome to Queenstown’s original gastro pub built on an extensive history that dates back well in time. Designed by award-winning designer Tom Skyring and inspired by an 1850’s trading emporium, The Ballarat Trading Co. is all about stepping back into the bustling days of frontier-era New Zealand. PIER 19 Steamer Wharf, Beach Street, Queenstown Tel: +64 3 442 4006 www.pier19.co.nz Head chef Michael Dabbs 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. GANTLEYS Arthur’s Point Road, Queenstown Tel: +64 3 442 8999 www.gantleys.co.nz Gantleys may be slightly out of the Queenstown hub, but it is well worth seeking out. After immersing yourself in the surrounds of its restored Heritage building and lush gardens with a glass of wine, treat your taste buds to the expansive degustation or carefully chosen à la carte menu. The house speciality, a herb-encrusted lamb rack served alongside a crispy thyme and truffle oil potato cake with mint coulis, is a must. 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.

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GROUP EXECUTIVE CHEF & CO-OWNER AT WAI GROUP

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 delightfully innovative dishes such as Central Otago hare with seared loin, horseradish slaw, Cromwell plum chutney, hare and pinot pie, and Karitane baby catfish with lemon butter sauce, salsa verde and a shaved fennel slaw.

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THE POSTMASTERS RESIDENCE 54 Buckingham Street, Arrowtown Tel: +64 3 442 0991 www.postmasters.co.nz Situated in an historic former gold-mining village, 20 minutes’ drive out of Queenstown, is this charming 100-year-old former homestead, which caters for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Drop in for a gourmet selection of Central Otago produce and wine, while soaking up the town’s quaint country atmosphere.

WINNIES 7 -9 The Mall, Queenstown Tel: +64 3 442 8635 www.winnies.co.nz A Queenstown institution, our chef recommends the mouth watering chicken inspired Montonara, the luscious Luigis Italian or the Pescara, complete with the sweetest New Zealand green lipped mussels and heavenly smoked salmon. Opening hours: Open 7 days from noon.

BELLA CUCINA 6 Brecon Street, Queenstown Tel: +64 3 442 6762 www.bellacucina.co.nz Bella Cucina affords a slice of little Italy in the heart of Queenstown with its fresh array of quality Italian cuisine. The restaurant firmly bases itself on the philosophy that good food and wine is best when simple. The daily changing menu makes the most of the seasons, while the pastas and breads are made on-site each morning. w © Bella Cucina.

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THE BALLARAT TRADING CO. 7-9 The Mall, Queenstown Tel: +64 3 442 4222 www.ballarattradingco.co.nz The Ballarat Trading Co. has the feel of an 1850’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. Opening hours: Open 7 days from 11am

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GANTLEYS RESTAURANT 172 Arthurs Point Road Queenstown Tel: +64 3 442 8999 Fax: + 64 3 442 7007 Email: Gantleys@xtra.co.nz www.gantleys.co.nz Gantleys remains one of the country’s finest restaurants, consistently presenting outstanding food and superlative wines – the historic building and 2 acres of landscaped gardens is the stuff memories are made of. Situated in a historic building, Gantleys has a unique place in the hearts of locals and is of great interest to visitors. Starched linen, crystal stemware and candles give the place a romantic touch. Gantleys is regularly awarded by New York’s Wine Spectator magazine for its world-class wine list. The cuisine is based on New Zealand’s best produce prepared with passion and flair, with an international influence. The extensive menu features seafood, lamb, venison, prime beef, duck and stunning desserts. Owners, Brent Rands (sommelier) and Jared Aldridge (head chef) specialise in the art of food and wine matching, which is complemented by professional and personalised service. Their skill is evident in the popular sixcourse degustation menu. Complimentary transport from central Queenstown by arrangement. Opening hours: Open 7 days, 6.00pm until late

FINZ SEAFOOD & GRILL Ground Floor Steamer Wharf Beach Street, Queenstown Tel: +64 3 442 7405 Email: eat@finzdownunder.co.nz www.finzdownunder.co.nz Serving the freshest seafood and fish in town, Finz Seafood & Grill will also tempt you with cuts of Prime New Zealand Beef, Southland Lamb and Free Range Pork. Enjoy the waterfront views and a glass of Central Otago Pinot Noir while watching the Earnslaw head off on its evening cruise. Perfect. Opening hours: Open 7 days from 5pm until late

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WAI RESTAURANT Ground Floor Steamer Wharf Beach Street, Queenstown Tel: +64 3 442 5969 Email: info@wai.net.nz www.wai.net.nz Queenstown’s leading ﬁne dining restaurant, Wai, 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. Wai uses the best ingredients that 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

POST OFFICE CAFÉ Te Ahi Building, Ballarat Street, Queenstown Tel: +64 3 442 8238 Email café@popc.co.nz www.postofficecafe.co.nz Post Office Café is centrally located in the Post Office precinct boasting Queenstown’s sunniest, sheltered courtyard and complimentary WiFI for customers. A place where business meets pleasure, the venue is a part of the Wai Dining Group featured across these pages and as such is renowned for its food, coffee (Roasted Addiqtion) and service. Opening hours: Open 7 days 7.30am to 4.00pm

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BELLA CUCINA 6 Brecon Street Queenstown Tel: +64 3 442 6762 Email: eat@bellacucina.co.nz www.bellacucina.co.nz Bella Cucina has proudly been serving ﬁne and fresh Italian cuisine in the heart of Queenstown for over four 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. As you enter Bella Cucina, you are instantly warmed by a huge wood-ﬁred 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

After Dark

Ally Everard seeks out Queenstown’s vibrant nightlife and unearths a few surprises along the way.

DUX DE LUX 14 Church Street, Queenstown Tel: +64 3 442 9688 www.thedux.co.nz/queenstown/home With award-winning beers brewed on-site and locally sourced produce, Dux de Lux is a Kiwi delight for locals and tourists. Unwind from a day on the slopes, catch up in the courtyard or check out the newest in local musical talent. MINIBAR Eureka Arcade off The Mall, Queenstown Tel: +64 3 441 3212 www.goodgroup.co.nz/bars/minibar The size of this bar is not the only thing that makes it exclusive, but it’s certainly what makes it a great place for an intimate tipple or a beer-tasting session with mates. Minibar stocks beers from more than 30 countries and provides an extensive list of cocktails – making it perfect for any occasion.

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BARMUDA Searle Lane, Queenstown Tel: +64 3 442 7300 www.goodgroup.co.nz/bars/barmuda This hidden gem on Searle Lane radiates with charm. The central bar makes for a fine meeting place, as does the all year round courtyard with its blazing fire. If you are after something a little more exclusive, head through to the lounge where elegance and intimacy awaits. BARDEAUX Eureka Arcade off The Mall, Queenstown Tel: +64 3 442 8284 www.goodgroup.co.nz/bars/bardeaux While the extravagant open fire and tasteful music complement the local wines, the friendly service enhances the sophistication and style of Bardeaux. The staff here are as knowledgeable as the wine list is extensive. And that is very.

THE WORLD BAR 27 Shotover Street, Queenstown Tel: +64 3 442 6757 www.theworldbar.co.nz Whether it’s drinking your cocktails from a teapot or examining the décor, this place really does have something for everyone. Early in the evening the World Bar is more ambient, but soon after dark the DJ action arrives and it morphs into one of Queenstown’s pet party spots. MINUS 5 ICE BAR Steamer Wharf, Queenstown Tel: +64 3 442 6050 www.minus5queenstown.co.nz With the walls, floors and even the glasses all crafted from crystal-clear ice, Minus 5 Ice Bar is one of Queenstown’s ‘coolest’ attractions. Enjoy an infamous cocktail and admire ice sculptures with pals, or enjoy a rousing booze-free venture with the whole family. All of this can be done while rugged up in the winter woollies and shoes provided at the door. SKYBAR 26 Camp Street, Queenstown Tel: +64 3 442 4283 www.goodgroup.co.nz/bars/skybar Start off your night by picking a cocktail from the long list provided, and then unwind in a funky, yet comfortable environment. Then, before you know it, the bar is on fire and the party has started. Located above the hustle and bustle of Camp Street, Skybar promises a righteous time whether you want it or not!

THE BUNKER Cow Lane, Queenstown Tel: +64 3 441 8030 www.thebunker.co.nz Hidden down Cow Lane is The Bunker. One of New Zealand’s best-kept secrets, this venue began as a one-bedroom apartment above Bunker Restaurant, and has now been transformed into an after-hours lounge. Enjoy a wide range of beers, wines and cocktails either by the open fire or up on the rooftop terrace under the stars. THE SPEIGHT’S ALE HOUSE Corner Stanley and Ballarat Streets, Queenstown Tel: +64 3 441 3065 www.speightsalehousequeenstown. co.nz Sitting here immersed in old council vaults feels as though you have stepped back in time. Some of the oldest Kiwi beers are available on tap and they go perfectly with a decent pub meal either in the catacomb, or out in the beer garden. THE YACHT CLUB BAR Steamer Wharf, Queenstown Tel: +64 3 441 8238 www.queenstownnz.co.nz/information/ WineandDine If the prime waterfront location and incredible mountain ranges views aren’t enough to attract you to the Yacht Club Bar, the premium wine list and menu will. This is the most excellent place for a fine pinot and a nibble across a delectable gourmet platter with close friends.

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Welcome to

Dunedin

Nyssa Veraphunt finds Dunedin to be an enchanting town that strikes a balance between the old and new with its 19th century architecture, cosmopolitan city centre and downright quirky spirit.

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pon first inspection of Dunedin, you may rub your eyes and question whether or not your Kiwi holiday has somehow been transported to a northern hemisphere location. With its rolling green hills, expanse of sheep dominated farmland and Victorian and Edwardian architecture, the city certainly has an air of old Scotland about it. Dunedin and the greater Otago region, which is where the city lies, were first inhabited by Maori tribes around seven centuries ago, with relics of moa (now extinct large birds) hunter sites and pa (fortified settlements from these times) still found here today. During the mid-19th century, the area was a hotbed for European sealers hunting for skins along the Otago Harbour and Peninsula. It then became a colony, primarily for Scottish settlers who took a liking to the region’s cool, temperate climate and fertile soil, which reminded them of home. These settlers worked hard to imbue their newfound homeland with a sense of the old country and this, combined with a boom after the discovery of gold in central Otago during the 1860s, resulted in Dunedin establishing the country’s highest concentration of Victorian and Edwardian architecture. In fact, the word ‘Dunedin’ itself is a Scottish Gaelic word meaning ‘Edinburgh’ and the city is often referred to as ‘the Edinburgh of the South’ due to its look and feel. To see the city for yourself, there is no better place to start than in its sentimental and geographical heart, The Octagon, which is an eight-sided plaza, complete with cafés, restaurants, bars and fashion stores. This meeting point is also home to some of Dunedin’s most important

and distinguished buildings, such as the Town Hall, Regent Theatre, Public Library, Public Art Gallery and St Paul’s Cathedral. The city is also known for its quirky streets and laneways that house an array of cosmopolitan eateries and nightspots. George Street is one of the highlights and it is here you can find a high representation of the city’s resident quality restaurants, which range from international cuisine and gastro pub fare to fine dining. Coffee culture is also alive and well in Dunedin, with the city clearly understanding the need for perfectly brewed espresso coffee. Funky cafés serve up the best of worldly fare, while traditional Kiwi tearooms tempt with all-time favourites such as cheese rolls and custard squares. There are so many entertainment and dining options in the city, the number almost seems disproportionate to its size, which, at around 125,000 people, is still small enough to retain a sense of country charm alongside its cosmopolitan feel. Dunedin’s resident student population, who make up around 20 percent of the total Dunedin population and the majority of whom attend the country’s largest and oldest university, the University of Otago, also helps to inject the city with a fresh sense of life and culture. In fact, despite Dunedin’s 19th century appearance, you will find a thriving, and in many places very contemporary, art scene, with various galleries scattered throughout the town displaying all kinds of jewellery, sculptures, carvings, paintings, glassware and stoneware handcrafted by New Zealand artists. Not to be outdone by its assortment of culinary and cultural delights, Dunedin also has an array

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From the station, take the historic Taieri Gorge train on one of the world’s most remarkable rail journeys. Here, you’ll venture alongside the rugged Taieri River Gorge, through hand-carved, 100-year-old tunnels and over wrought iron viaducts. To complete your journey through old Dunedin, be sure to drop by New Zealand’s only castle, Larnach Castle. This mansion has been restored to its full Neo-Gothic splendour, is filled with antique furnishings and is surrounded by 14 hectares of beautifully kept gardens and grounds. The story of the 1871-constructed marvel is as fascinating as the castle itself – it’s an intriguing tale of riches, ruin, love affairs and even a ghost. Just as the region provides a haven for tourists, it is also an eco-friendly destination accommodating some of the world’s rarest wildlife. See royal albatrosses, endangered yellow-eyed penguins, fur seals, Hooker’s sea lions and even sea elephants in their natural environments, particularly along the Otago Harbour and Peninsula. There are also various centres and reserves where you can learn more about local flora and fauna. Stunning landscapes mark the area and include verdant undulating terrain, sheer cliff lookouts and incredible rock formations, which are the legacy of a former volcano that created the harbour and surrounding hills. Dunedin’s beaches are another highlight, particularly popular surfing spot, Saint Clair, windswept Tunnel Beach and family-friendly Brighton Beach. Whether it’s a seaside escape, romantic getaway, wildlife sanctuary, historic adventure or lively centre you crave, you’re bound to find your fix in Dunedin. w

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of activities on offer. For the kids and chocoholics, Cadbury World is worth a visit, as it is a Willy Wonka’s factory of all things chocolate. To add to the chocolaty excitement, each July the Cadbury Chocolate Carnival sees a race of 40,000 giant Jaffas (spherical chocolates, covered in a crispy, orangeflavoured outer shell) down the steepest street in the world, Baldwin Street, which is about four kilometres north-east of the CBD. The event raises money for charity and, while the street may only be about 350 metres long, the 19-degree decline means the chocolates roll at an exciting, breakneck speed. Speight’s Brewery is another of the area’s icons and is proudly dubbed the ‘Pride of the South’. Still on its 1876-established premises, the brewery is a custodian of beer history and the trademark Speight’s taste, which you will discover firsthand on the brewery’s interactive tour through its fully functional factory. The Dunedin Casino is one of Dunedin’s most frequented attractions, not only for its gaming features, but also for its impressive opulent backdrop of a fully restored 1883-built building, which includes mosaic floor tiles, a sweeping staircase and a glass dome roof. New Zealand’s most photographed building, the Dunedin Railway Station, is another popular historic site. Opened in 1906, the building’s Edwardian Baroque architecture, with its Classical and Neo-Gothic elements, has a grandeur that is obvious on first glance – particularly its 37-metre clock tower that peers out on to the manicured gardens below. The farmers’ market here every Saturday is also worth a visit for fresh seasonal produce, honey, jams and flowers.

WELCOME TO NEW ZEALAND IS FEATURED IN THE FOLLOWING LUXURY HOTELS: North Island

Stamford Plaza Auckland Rendezvous Hotel Auckland City Life Auckland Copthorne Harbour City Hotel Crowne Plaza Auckland Amora Hotel Auckland Esplanade Hotel Devonport Heritage Hotel Langham Hotel Auckland Mercure Hotel Auckland Mollies Hotel Apartments Quay West Suites Auckland Sky City Auckland Sky City Grand Hotel Hyatt Regency Auckland Spencer on Byron The Sebel Suites Auckland Huka Lodge Bayview Chateau Tongariro Wairakei Resort Distinction Rotorua Millennium Hotel Rotorua Rydges Rotorua Solitaire Lodge 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

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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 Mercure Grand St Moritz Mercure Resort Queenstown Millbrook Resort Millenium Hotel Queenstown Novotel Gardens Queenstown Nugget Point Boutique Hotel The Heritage Queenstown Eichardts Private Hotel

22 Lower Albert Street, Auckland Corner Mayoral Drive and Vincent Streets, Auckland 171 Queen Street, Auckland 196 Quay Street, Auckland 128 Albert Street, Auckland 100 Greys Avenue, Auckland 1 Victoria Road, Devonport 35 Hobson 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 Corner Waterloo Quadrant and Princes Street, Auckland 9-17 Byron Avenue, Takapuna Beach, Auckland 85-89 Customs Street West, Auckland 271 Huka Falls Road, Taupo State Highway 48, Whakapapa Village, Mount Ruapehu State Highway 1, Wairakei, Taupo 390 Fenton Street, Rotorua Corner Hinemaru and Eruera Streets, Rotorua 272 Fenton Street, Rotorua 16 Ronald Road, Lake Tarawera 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 9 309 8888 +64 9 366 3000 +64 9 379 9222 +64 9 377 0349 +64 9 302 1111 +64 9 375 1800 +64 9 445 1291 +64 9 379 8553 +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 9 358 8007 +64 9 916 6111 +64 9 978 4000 +64 7 378 5791 +64 7 892 3809 +64 7 374 8021 +64 7 349 5200 +64 7 347 1234 +64 7 349 0099 +64 7 362 8208 +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 10-18 Brunswick Street, Queenstown Sainsbury Road, Fernhill, Queenstown Malagahans Road, Arrowtown 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 Marine Parade, Queenstown

+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 3 442 4990 +64 3 442 6600 +64 3 441 7000 +64 3 441 8888 +64 3 442 7750 +64 3 441 0288 +64 3 442 4988 +64 3 441 0450

pa n e r a i . c o m

strength a n d honour. luminor submersible 1950 3 days automatic titanio - 47mm