Our New Zealand ISS 35

I SSue 3 5 / autumn 2017

Our New Zealand onboard travel magazine

Freedom and prosperity Yours to take home

SADLY, THERE’S ONLY ONE BOLTON HOTEL. FORTUNATELY IT’S IN WELLINGTON.

The wonderful thing about a truly independent hotel is its freedom to create an environment in harmony with the charms of its location and the needs of its guests. The drawback is that there can only be one. Whoever attempts to recreate the extraordinary service culture enjoyed by guests at the Bolton Hotel, it won’t be us. There’s only one Wellington, and there’s only one Bolton.

Receive 15% off when you book at boltonhotel.co.nz and enter JOURNEY on the booking page.

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GOLDEN AUTUMN

FEATURES 10 Story of New Zealand 27 Great Walks 30 Discover the Arts 33 Buy NZ Made 38 Accommodation

HANMER SPRINGS

REGULARS

NORTH ISLAND 40 42 52 54

Coromandel Splendor Weekend in Wellington Escape to Hutt Valley Cruising the Wairarapa

Welcome Onboard services 6 Our Story 8 Your journeys 15 Interislander Plus 16 Social Media 18 Life Flight 19 Improving our services 20 Sponsorship 20 Travel Apps 110 Onboard Maps 112 Merchandise 114 Puzzles 4 5

SOUTH ISLAND 56 Marlborough Flavours 65 Marlborough Wine Trail 70 Stunning Nelson/Tasman 77 Welcoming Kaikoura 85 Discover North Canterbury 87 Experience Christchurch 89 Akaroa Charm 91 Majestic Mackenzie/Aoraki 93 West Coast- Natural Wonders 100 Beautiful Lake Wanaka 104 Golden Queenstown

Our New Zealand Magazine

#0urnewzealand #interislandermemory #nzbytrain

ourne w z ealand . c o . n z cover photo: A carving from the Waitangi Treaty Grounds

By Tony Ranby

PUBLISHER

ADVERTISING

Patrick McElligott PO Box 2173, Washdyke, Timaru Patrick@ttmediagroup.com.au

Michelle Agnew PO Box 2173, Washdyke, Timaru P: 0274 664 384 Michelle@ttmediagroup.co.nz

EDITOR

Penny Thompson

Joanna May Joanna@ttmediagroup.co.nz Contributor

DESIGN AND PRODUCTION PRINTING Format Print, Wellington

DISCLAIMER: Views expressed in the Our New Zealand magazine are not necessarily endorsed by the publisher. No responsibility is accepted by the publisher or the printer for the accuracy of information contained in the text or advertisements. Advertisements must comply with the relevant Trade Practices Act 1979. Responsibility for compliance with the act rests with the person, company or advertising agency submitting the advertisement. Neither the publisher nor the editor accepts responsibility for advertisements.

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

Robin Heyworth

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WELCOME ON BOARD Te¯na¯ koutou. Nau mai ki Aotearoa.

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

Whether it is a waka that arrived centuries ago or an airliner that touched down last week, all New Zealanders have a journey in their past and an arrival filled with high hopes for a better life.

In this issue we look in more depth at how immigration has moulded our young nation. Understanding where we come from is important to knowing where we are going in the future, but what we already know is that immigration has made us a gloriously diverse nation, one which embraces many cultures and traditions.

That diversity has helped earn Kiwis their deserved reputation as an open, warm and friendly people. That is the experience our staff pride themselves on delivering to our passengers, whether you are travelling on one of our Scenic trains or on our Interislander service.

Seasoned Interislander staff member Ofisa Maligi, profiled in this issue, personifies that. Originally from Samoa, he has been providing a top-line experience to passengers travelling between New Zealand’s main islands for nine years. As well as a stint in the Interislander ukulele band, Ofisa has been a competitor in the New Zealand Barista Championships and played a role in choosing the coffee blend served on our ships – Espresso Love

by Gravity Coffee.

In this issue you can read about Life Flight, a charity committed to saving lives by helping more than 27,000 people in need with their emergency air services across New Zealand. Interislander is proud to have recently become a part of their Wellington rescue helicopter “family of sponsors”.

Interislander is also a long-time supporter of Project Jonah, so in February when more than 400 whales stranded on the South Island’s Farewell Spit we offered registered Marine Mammal Medics free passage across Cook Strait to bring aid to the stricken animals.

This Our New Zealand edition, which is free for you to take home, also contains details of how to get discounts on future travel on our services – it’s never too early to plan ahead and book another Interislander ferry or Scenic train service for next time.

Enjoy your journey – it has been our pleasure to have you onboard today.

Ofisa is typical of the staff who work with our customers approachable and knowledgeable, so please make sure you ask for any assistance you may need. They are backed up by great teams working behind the scenes to keep the ships and trains operating in what can sometimes be a challenging environment due to Mother Nature.

As a team KiwiRail also takes pride in supporting our communities up and down the country. The Kaikoura earthquake late last year underlined just how important a sense of community is.

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PETER REIDY Chief Executive, KiwiRail

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Onboard services Thanks for joining us and choosing to experience New Zealand with us. Please take a moment to familiarise yourself with the following information to help you have a safe and pleasant journey.

SERVICES ON YOUR SHIP JOURNEY

SERVICES ON YOUR TRAIN JOURNEY

_ CAFE

_ TOI LE TS

_ CAF E

_ TO ILETS

Our fully licensed cafe is open throughout the day with a great selection of snacks, meals and beverages to enjoy.

Toilets and accessible toilets are available onboard. Please refer to signage onboard to locate these or ask a friendly crew member for directions.

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

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

_ v iew i n g decks

_ K I DS

_ VIEWING DECK

_ Kids

Viewing decks are available on your journey. Please follow safety guidelines and ensure children are supervised when visiting the viewing deck.

We get excited about our sailings, and no doubt children do too.

However please remember to supervise children at all times while onboard.

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

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

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_

WHE RE C A N I C ONN E CT

POW ER I NG U P

Wi-Fi is available on all sailings!

Travelling through some remote parts of the country means connectivity is patchy and sometimes not available.

Make sure you look out for our provided power outlets onboard. Plug in, power-up.

_ recycle

_ your crew

_ YOUR ON-BOARD CREW

_ SAF ET Y

Interislander is committed to reducing the impact our operations have on the environment, so support us by using one of our recycling stations onboard to dispose of rubbish or waste.

Our crew members are trained to make your journey as safe and as comfortable as possible, please let them know if you require any assistance.

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

Your safety is our first priority.

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

_ SA F E T Y

_ AVO I D I NJURY

Please follow staff directions at all times. Posted throughout the ship are instructions on emergency signal and assembly station locations. Please take a moment to familiarise yourself these.

To avoid injury use the hand rails at all times when using stairs. The doors can be heavy to open and close. No loitering in doorways and keep hands and limbs clear of frames.

_ feedback

_ SIT BACK & RE L A X

If you provided an email address when booking, a post-travel survey will make its way to your inbox. Your feedback is important to us.

Now it’s time to sit back, relax, and enjoy the journey. Thanks for choosing to travel with KiwiRail Scenic. We hope you enjoy your time on board.

_ commen tary

Audio commentary is available at your seat in English and Mandarin. Headphones are provided for listening.

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

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_ POWERING U P

Make sure you look out for our provided power outlets on-board. Plug in, power-up.

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AU C K L A N D

KiwiRail Connects New Zealand KiwiRail has been an important part of connecting New Zealand for more than 150 years. Although many know us for our freight services up and down the country, KiwiRail also provides nationwide infrastructure, property and tourism services.

The tourism sector is New Zealand’s largest export earner, recently taking the number one spot ahead of the dairy sector, and attracts more than 3 million visitors annually. Australia remains the country’s number one source of visitor arrivals, with more than 1.3 million tourists crossing the Tasman, followed

by China and the US. According to Tourism New Zealand, international visitors contribute more than $10.3 billion to the New Zealand economy.

KiwiRail tourism is well-known for offering postcard-perfect scenery from every window, with internationally acclaimed scenic train and ferry route that traverses some of the country’s most stunning landscapes.

Our three scenic train journeys have received global recognition, with the TranzAlpine - which travels from Christchurch to Greymouth via farmland, forests and the Southern Alps - ranked 9th in the Luxury Travel Expert’s Top 10 Greatest Train Journeys in the World.

The Coastal Pacific - which travels up the east coast of the South Island, past the breath-taking Kaikoura Ranges on one side and 6

Pacific Ocean on the other - is featured 2nd in Lonely Planet’s Best Train Journeys You’ve Never Heard Of. The Northern Explorer - which runs through the heart of the North Island, via the Central Plateau’s three volcanic peaks - was recently nominated for the 2016 Holiday & Tours Specialist Award by the UK based Luxury Travel Guide.

Meanwhile the journey on the Interislander ferries, via the beautiful Marlborough Sounds, Cook Strait and Wellington and Picton Harbours, has been described as “one of the most beautiful ferry rides in the world”.

We offer passengers unique, must-do, world class experiences.

From stunning scenery to award winning train carriages, we’re bringing the best of New Zealand to you.

Pelorus Jack – Our Guiding Dolphin

The Interislander logo is inspired by the story of Pelorus Jack, the Risso’s dolphin that guided ships across the Cook Strait for 20 years. From 1888 through to around 1912, whether night or day, Jack would ride the bow waves, delighting passengers travelling between the North and South Islands.

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AU C K L A N D

Staff profile

Ofisa Maligi Hailing from Western Samoa, Ofisa Maligi represents the diversity and spirit of the Interislander crew - which closely matches its international mix of passengers. Like many, Ofisa joined Interislander with no previous experience of crewing on a ferry – and fair enough, there aren’t a lot of opportunities to work on a ferry in Western Samoa. Instead, Ofisa had a solid background in hard work.

Ofisa’s previous roles at KFC and then as a construction labourer demonstrated that he was keen to get stuck into intensive work and could stand the heat in the kitchen. Add to that a big heart, professional manner and a warm smile, and Ofisa was exactly the kind of man who could sail into a successful career on the seas with Interislander.

When someone fired a shot at Jack in 1904, the Governor General signed an order protecting the Risso’s dolphin, and postcards soon declared Pelorus Jack ‘The only fish in the world protected by an Act of Parliament.’ The last sighting of Jack, who it turns out may have been a Jill, was in 1912.

Jack is not the only legendary dolphin in these parts.

According to Maori history, the dolphin Tuhirangi guided Kupe, a Maori voyager, across the ocean to New Zealand, and through the outer Marlborough Sounds to the West Coast of the South Island.

Multitalented and well-humoured, Ofisa soon found himself in the Interislander ukulele band, strumming authentic Pacific Island music as a memorable welcome for passengers as they boarded. Clearly Ofisa was an emerging star, and his talents are still regularly called upon for modelling in photo shoots and playing lead roles in films that are made on board.

In his 9 years with Interislander, there isn’t much that he hasn’t done!

The variety and scope in the role of Interislander crew is what makes the job so exciting and rewarding. As Ofisa says: “My favourite part of the job is making sure that my passengers get the best experience on Interislander crossing the Cook Strait.” – this broad scope is ultimately what Interislander want from its crew.

Ofisa became the crème of the crop when his passion for coffee took him from sailing the Strait to a voyage into the fine art of coffee. Having witnessed Wellington’s love affair for the enlivening elixir, Ofisa went in search of a uniquely international blend for Interislander to sell on board. It was an enlightening experience, as Ofisa says: “Throughout my journey in coffee, I’ve learnt an incredible amount about the coffee itself and the factors that can affect the taste: from its origin, its process, right down to roasting and finally the barista who prepares that coffee for our passengers”

Top: Risso's Dolphin, by Uko Gorter Bottom: Interislander logo

Ofisa’s own coffee creation, “Espresso Love”, is tailor made for Interislander’s worldly blend of customers. Espresso Love combines exotic bean flavours from Brazil, El Salvador Papua New Guinea and Sumatra. The resulting roast profile is of dark choc, roast hazelnut and fruit loaf. And once it has been masterfully brewed by your professionally-trained Interislander barista, the resulting taste profile is rich dark choc, fruit acidity and good sweetness. So go and give it a taste!

Ofisa’s story is one that deserves to be shared. After almost a decade of dedication to his role (and everything else he could help out with), Ofisa was recently rewarded with the honourable role of Team Leader for Green Crew on Kaitaki. Congratulations Ofisa!

AU C K L A N D

see the best of new zealand Discover the heart of New Zealand when you travel by train or ferry. There’s a spectacular range of scenery waiting for you- rugged coastlines, winding rivers, towering mountains, the brilliant Marlborough Sounds and untouched alpine landscapes. Watch it all roll by with Scenic Journeys and Interislander.

KiwiRail Scenic Journeys operates three unique train services across the North and South Islands; the Northern Explorer, Coastal Pacific and TranzAlpine.

Interislander is New Zealand’s ferry service, linking the North and South Islands with up to twelve crossings a day. Each journey offers a unique way to experience New Zealand.

CHRISTCHURCH - ARTHURS PASS - GREYMOUTH

15 The Canterbury Plains, at 750,000 hectares, are New Zealand’s

21 Darfield is the main town between Christchurch and the West

16 The Rakaia River is what is known as a braided river (these are

22 The North-West ranges, comprising the Paparoa, Victoria

largest area of flat land. The plains were formed over millions of years by rivers such as the Waimakariri carrying material from the mountains and depositing it as the river flow decreases. rivers that carry large amounts of sediment). As it drops, the sediment and slope decreases and the river carves a myriad of channels into the riverbed (because water always looks for the easiest path downhill).

17 The ice-fed Waimakariri River is the largest of the North

Canterbury Rivers flowing for 151 kms from the Southern Alps to the Pacific Ocean.

Coast. It has a particular weather phenomenon where it often has an arch of cloud above it, caused by the condensation of water particles channelled upwards over the Southern Alps. and north-west Nelson ranges, are not as high as neighbouring mountains but do contain New Zealand’s oldest sedimentary and volcanic rocks and its oldest fossils.

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

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18 At 920 metres, Arthur’s Pass is the highest of only three roads crossing the Southern Alps. First travelled by M¯aori in search of the precious West Coast pounamu (greenstone), it was named after Sir Arthur Dudley Dobson who led the first party of Europeans across it in 1864.

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Island. Known for its brown trout fishing, the lake empties into the Arnold River which, in turn, flows into the Grey River.

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20 Otira is the site of both the Otira Tunnel and the Otira Viaduct.

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

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HURUNUI RIVER

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LAKE PUKAKI

LAKE TEKAPO

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WAIMAKARIRI RIVER

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RAKAIA RIVER

RANGITATA RIVER

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NORTHERN EXPLORER interislander FERRY COASTAL PACIFIC TRANZ ALPINE INTERCITY COACH

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19 Lake Brunner is the largest lake in the north-western South

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AU C K L A N D

AUCKLAND - NATIONAL PARK - WELLINGTON

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

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

AUCKLAND

3 Raurimu Spiral, built in 1898, is a feat of civil engineering

that allows trains to conquer the 132 metre height difference between the Whanganui River valley and the Volcanic Plateau.

The train travels 6.8 kilometres which, in a straight line, is just two kilometres long.

pukekohe waikato river

1 huntly

4 Lake Taupo lies in a caldera caused by a huge volcanic

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eruption. It has erupted 28 times in the last 27,000 years. The most recent eruption, in 180 AD, had an eruption column that turned the sky red over Rome and China.

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5 Mt Ruapehu, nearly half a million years old, is the highest

peak (2,797 metres) in the North Island and the only one with glaciers.

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6 Mt Ngauruhoe (2,287 metres), erupted 45 times in the 20th

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raurimu spiral national park

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Century, most recently in 1977.

Its Maori name means ‘throwing heated stones’.

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7 Mt Tongariro (1,967 metres), is the lowest of the three central

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North Island volcanoes. Known as a truncated volcano, it has a number of separate peaks. Its only major active vent is Ngauruhoe which is considered a separate mountain.

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8 Mt Taranaki (2,518 metres), is a stratovolcano and one of

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the most symmetrical volcanoes in the world. Because of its resemblance to Mt Fuji, Mt Taranaki was used as the backdrop for the movie The Last Samurai.

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9 The Tararua Ranges are created by the same uplifting process

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

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WELLINGTON 11

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10 Kapiti Island, eight kilometres off the coast, is known today

as a rodent-free, bird and marine sanctuary. In earlier times, it was home to the great chief, Te Rauparaha and later used as a whaling base when 2,000 people lived there.

COOK STRAIT

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D GE ARRAN A CLARENCE RIVER

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KAIKOURA

CHRISTCHURCH - PICTON - WELLINGTON

The Coastal Pacific will not operate during the 2017 season due to earthquake damage to the rail track.

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

WELLINGTON - PICTON

12 The Hikurangi Trench, just 1.6 kilometres off the coast of

Total Journey 52 Nautical miles (96 Kilometres) Wellington – The Capital city of New Zealand, and second most populous urban area of New Zealand with 398,300 residents. Famous for a vibrant creative culture fuelled by great food, wine, craft beer, coffee and events.

Cook Strait – Known to M¯aori as Raukawa. Named by Captain Cook but visited earlier

by Abel Tasman (who mistook it for an inlet) in 1642. The narrowest part is 22km wide.

Tory Channel – Surveyed by Captain Edward Chaffers in August 1839 and named after his ship, the New Zealand Company’s survey vessel ‘Tory’. John Guard established a whaling station here in the 1820’s with his wife Elizabeth.

Queen Charlotte Sound – one of New Zealand’s most popular holiday areas, Picton –is a town in the Marlborough region of New Zealand’s South Island.

The town is located near the head of the Queen Charlotte Sound and 25km north of Blenheim.

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

13 Rising dramatically from the sea, the Inland Kaikoura

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

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

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AU C K L A N D

Replica of James Cook's ship Endeavour

In pursuit of freedom and prosperity: The story of N ew Z ealand

BY ROBIN HEYWORTH The birth of a new land

Around 85 million years ago, the small continent of Zealandia wrangled and wrenched itself free from Gondwana and began to sail east. Sixty-million years into its journey, the fledgling continent plunged beneath the ocean, leaving only a small percentage above the surface. Then, as the Australasian and Pacific plates ripped apart, the submerged continent was broken in two. For several million years, the two new plates collided and crumpled beneath the waters.

In local legend, it was Maui who sailed the South Island out into the Pacific and then fished North Island out of the sea using a bone fish-hook. Remarkably, our modern scientific explanation is quite similar. For in a scene befitting the Book of Genesis, after sailing into the Pacific, the ground heaved, the seas parted, and the craggy peaks of Zealandia rose to create New Zealand. This biblical event took place less than two million years ago, making New Zealand one of the youngest landmasses on earth.

New Zealand remained a volatile land of fiery volcanic turmoil and just 26,000 years ago the Taupo Volcano self-destructed.

The blast billowed 1,170 cubic kilometres of material into the atmosphere, leaving the 616 square kilometre Lake Taupo in its wake. The earth was scorched, all life was incinerated and New Zealand was plunged into permanent darkness as soot, dust and debris blackened the sky.

Eventually the volcanoes quietened and the volcanic dust settled.

The suffocating ashen deposits and scorched vegetation now 10

transformed into rich soils filled with nutrients. A fertile haven now rested in the midst of the Pacific Ocean waiting to be discovered.

When you visit Lake Taupo, you will find lumps of pumice and obsidian lying upon beaches of black sand. These are the abundant remains of Taupo's volcanic past.

The arrival of Kupe

New Zealand was first discovered by an heroic fisherman named Kupe. Polynesian legend tells us he was chasing down a great octopus belonging to his competitor, Muturangi. Sailing in a simple canoe, the chase led him from his mythical homeland of Hawaiki all the way to the Cook Strait (known as Raukawakawa).

There, he caught the beast and destroyed it.

Kupe's adventures have been distorted by generations of storytellers, but elements of truth remain. The early Polynesian settlers did arrive on seafaring canoes that were often equipped with sails, outriggers and double hulls. It is also likely that Kupe and his faithful band of fisherman headed heroically into the blue chasing migrating fish and sea mammals for their starving community.

When the Polynesians arrived, it is said that they found existing tribes living in New Zealand who had descended from a people they called the Patupaiarehe. But, as yet, archaeologists have only found traces of the early Polynesian settlers who arrived in the thirteenth century from eastern Polynesia.

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T h e S t o ry o f Ne w Z eala n d

You can visit many of the places that Kupe visited and named.

The oral traditions of the Māori have preserved many places including: Arapāoa, Mana, Matiu (Somes Island), Kohukohu, Pouahi, and Maungataniwha. When Kupe departed, it is said he left from Hokianga and the word Hoki means "to return". Kupe’s wife is said to have named the land Ao-tea-roa (long-whitecloud) upon arriving at the North Island.

The Discovery of New Zealand

Three-hundred years after the Polynesians had discovered New Zealand, the European's were enjoying their own Age of Discovery. Columbus had struck gold in America and Magellan discovered the world was round. Ships were now setting off in every direction looking for new lands and fabulous riches and there was a large empty space on their new round maps to explore. Rumours abound of a "terra australis incognita" (unknown southern land). The rumour was founded on Marco Polo's assertion that a land existed in the south where gold was "so plentiful that no one who did not see it could believe it”.

On August 14, 1642, the Dutch East India Company despatched Abel Tasman to hunt down this legendary land of gold. Within four months he had discovered Tasmania (off the coast of Australia). Upon leaving his new land, Tasman was blown off course by unfavourable winds. Heading east, instead of north, the seas became so rough he barely escaped with his life. To his relief, on December 13, 1642, Tasman sighted an island off South America and named it Staten Landt. He was, of course, actually in New Zealand.

Tasman sailed around the northwest tip of the South Island looking for safe anchorage. He eventually found a large protected bay and sent a landing party to go ashore to fetch water. Unfortunately, they had chosen the agricultural lands of the Ngati Tumatakokiri tribe and soon found themselves being attacked by a double hulled Waka filled with angry tribesmen.

They scrambled back to the safety of their ships, but were chased out of the bay the next morning.

In 1643, workers at the Dutch East India Company offices realised that Abel Tasman had actually discovered a new land. Their cartographer, Joan Blaeu, named it Nieuw Zeeland based on its likeness to the County of Zeeland, on the western seaboard of Holland.

Tasman named the bay he landed in Murderer's Bay after his ordeal, but thankfully it was renamed Golden Bay after gold was discovered in nearby Aorere in 1850. To the south-east of Golden Bay is the Abel Tasman National Park, which was opened in 1942 to celebrate the 300th anniversary of Tasman's arrival.

Cook puts New Zealand on the Map

On August 26, 1768, Lieutenant James Cook sailed out of Plymouth on a mission to Tahiti to observe the transit of Venus.

Cook's epic voyage was on behalf of the Royal Society who wanted to calculate how far the sun was from earth. However, the navy also wanted to make use of Cook's ten years' experience as a navy surveyor. They issued him with a second order that was to remain sealed until his mission to Tahiti was complete.

After failing to accurately observe the passage of Venus, Cook would have been relieved to find his second mission was far more

befitting of his skillset. Firstly, he was to head south and look for lands to the south of Tahiti. Then he was to turn west and map the remainder of Nieuw Zeeland. Lastly, he was to complete the mapping of Australia. He would be sailing into the unknown for another two years.

Cook first set eyes on New Zealand on October 6, 1769. Two days later he landed at Poverty Bay and sailed south to Cape Turnagain.

He then turned around and headed north, sailing anti-clockwise around the North Island, mapping the coastline as he sailed.

On January 15, 1770, Cook eased into the shelter of the Queen Charlotte Sound and anchored at Ship Cove. From the top of the hill he discovered that an unknown strait bisected the land.

Having discovered the Cook Strait, Cook sailed through it and headed north. As expected, Cook found himself back at Cape Turnagain. He turned again and headed back to the South Island, sailing down the east coast and back up the west coast.

He eventually anchored on March 27, 1770, at Admiralty Bay on D'Urville Island. New Zealand was finally on the map of the world.

Māori sailors also used Ship Cove to shelter from the tempestuous Cook Strait. During Cook's three visits, he spent a total of 170 days at Ship Cove and planted vegetable gardens and built pig-pens. It was here that trading relationships with the Māori forged the foundations for British immigration. Today, Ship Cove is a popular tourist spot and the starting point for the 4-day walk along Queen Charlotte track. Organised tours and water taxis operate from Picton.

The First European Settlers

During the early nineteenth century, the Industrial Revolution was rapidly transforming Britain. Steam powered machines replaced Britain's workforce and common land was enclosed. The poor were no longer allowed to sustain themselves on common land and needed to find employment. Meanwhile, people in employment were being replaced by machines. For the majority of Britain's twenty-six million inhabitants, life was sickeningly hopeless.

Yet, on the far side of the world lay a land of opportunity. Edward Gibbon Wakefield constructed a plan and in 1836 he told the House of Commons: ‘Very near to Australia there is a country which all testimony concurs in describing as the fittest in the world for colonisation, as the most beautiful country with the finest climate, and the most productive soil; I mean New Zealand.’

With the help of John George Lambton and the New Zealand Company, Wakefield planned to sell small plots of town land paired with hectares of farmland outside the town. They would buy the land from the Māori very cheaply and sell the land for a "sufficient price". Agricultural labourers, gardeners and mechanics would be offered passage to New Zealand using the profits - this was known as Assisted Passage. The purchaser would then live in the town and the labourers would live and work on the farmland.

In 1839, the New Zealand Company despatched the Tory, followed by the Cuba and Oriental, to buy as much land as they could.

Meanwhile, they began to sell allocations of land and recruit desperate labourers from rural Britain. Although they bought vast tracts of New Zealand, most of their contracts proved to be

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T h e S t o ry o f Ne w Z eala n d

Digital display of Treaty of Waitangi signatures

Treaty House, Waitangi

worthless and the land purchases fell through. However, eight boatloads of immigrants had already been shipped to the other side of the world.

After three months of treacherous sailing, in cramped quarters, living in filth and permanently stuck below deck, the first immigrants stepped off the Aurora onto the shore of Petone on January 22, 1840. The passengers consisted of 36 single persons, 25 married couples and 40 children. The local Māori, who lived upon the shore, cheerfully came to greet them and helped to build temporary huts. This unexpectedly kind welcome must have brought tears of relief to those exhausted travellers, but as the sun rose on the first day of their new lives they discovered their proposed settlement was an inhospitable swamp.

Stranded upon the shore of a strange and wild land, their only option was to transform the banks of the Heretaunga (Hutt River) into workable farmland. Eventually, the new settlement came to life and they called it "Britannia". Sadly, many of their homes were washed away when the Heretaunga burst its banks. Their inhospitable swamp turned out to be floodplain. And so the resilient people of Britannia moved to Thorndon, Wellington, and began again.

In Wellington today, you will find Tory Street, Oriental Parade, Cuba Street, Wakefield Street and Lambton Quay echoing this early adventure. You will also find these street names in Petone where the Centennial Building sits upon the shore to commemorate that first landing. Built in 1940 as changing rooms, the Centennial Building now houses the Settler's Museum, which is beautifully informative and well worth visiting (give yourself 1 -2 hours, it is small but packed with the stories of settlement and many letters written by the first immigrants about their journey).

Treaty of Waitangi

With the New Zealand Company buying land and the French enroute with their own colonisation plan, the British government hurriedly despatched Captain William Hobson to New Zealand to make a deal with the Māori chiefs to claim sovereignty over New Zealand. Hobson wrote the treaty in four days and enlisted a missionary named Henry Williams to translate it into Māori with the help of his son. The treaty stated that sovereignty would 12

be transferred to the British Empire, the Māori would retain ownership of their lands (but could only sell them to the British Government) and Māori would have the same rights as all other the British subjects.

On February 6, 1840, the first 45 Māori chiefs signed the treaty at the home of James Busby in Waitangi. Eight copies were despatched around the country to collect further signatures and

by May 21, 1840, the Treaty had over 500 signatures and Hobson proclaimed British sovereignty.

Located in the Bay of Islands in the north-western corner of the north island, James Busby's home was later purchased and donated to the nation. It is now known as Treaty House and is home of the Museum of Waitangi. It is a spectacular part of the world and a region of great historic importance - so it is well worth making the journey to Waitangi and nearby Paihia and Russell.

The French of Akaroa

In 1838, a successful whaler named Jean Francois Langlois persuaded the french King Louis-Phillppe to assist him in creating a colony on the Bank's Peninsula. However, when Captain Charles Francois Lavaud arrived in 1840 to establish French rule, he was dismayed to find the Treaty of Waitangi had just been signed and the land was British. Luckily, the British were welcoming and with the land secured, the navy set about building roads, bridges and wharves, whilst the Akaroa settlers built themselves permanent homes.

French immigration to New Zealand remained low until the gold rush of the 1860s, after which many French made permanent homes in New Zealand and were joined by their families throughout the 1870s. The inquisitive, scientific and cultured French had a strong influence on their New Zealand compatriots and French culture became very popular - as did French wine.

The most enduring exchange, however, was that of scientific and academic discovery.

When you visit Akaroa today, you will find many of the early French colonial buildings and street names, such as Rue Lavaud, still exist and the town retains a distinctly French feel.

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T h e S t o ry o f Ne w Z eala n d

Christchurch Cathedral in 1900, Christchurch City Libraries

Church of England settlement. The Canterbury Association was formed in 1948, taking its name from the committee's president, the Archbishop of Canterbury. The settlement's seat would be called Christchurch (named after the Oxford College that Godley had studied at).

Using Wakefield's system of planned immigration, they bought the land at 10 shillings per acre and sold it at ÂŁ3 per acre. The additional ÂŁ2 10s was reserved for building the settlement's infrastructure and providing assisted passage for the workforce.

Adverts were hung in parish churches across Britain offering a new life in New Zealand for gardeners, shepherds, farm servants, labourers and country mechanics. Over the next two years the Canterbury Association despatched 24 ships to New Zealand carrying approximately 3,500 Canterbury Pilgrims.

In 1856, Christchurch became the first New Zealand city to be decreed by Royal Charter. Architects and city planners began to design a quintessential English city, centred on a large college cathedral, with botanical gardens and the gentle River Avon running through it. However, the city had only 450 male residents and funding the project proved difficult. Christchurch’s gothic revival cathedral was eventually completed in 1904, after which the city began to take shape.

New Edinburgh - A Settlement for the Scots

The Industrial Revolution coupled with a potato famine had disastrous effects on rural Scotland. So, in 1842, Scottish architect and politician George Rennie started planning a "new Edinburgh" in the newly formed New Zealand colony. The plan was adopted

by John McGlashan, Thomas Burns and William Cargill, who wished to build a settlement for the newly formed Presbyterian Free Church of Scotland. As a result, the Otago Association was formed. They would use Wakefield's model to sell land and move skilled labour to New Zealand using assisted passage.

Facing a bleak future of poverty and starvation, thousands of rural Scots signed up for the scheme. By April 1848, the first two ships had safely arrived at Port Chalmers (named after the Free Church's founder, Dr. Thomas Chalmers) and Dunedin was born (Dunedin is the Gaelic form of Edinburgh, replacing the English "burgh" with the Gaelic "dun", both of which mean "fort").

Within a decade, 12,000 people had abandoned their ancestral homes and loved ones and set off on an uncertain voyage to the farthest place on earth. They risked everything for the simple opportunity that New Zealand offered. Not all would make it safely and many lost their lives or worldly possessions to the seas. However, those that landed in Dunedin built a community founded on strong religious principles that empowered the common man. Despite the hardship, they had gained control of their destinies.

The Canterbury Association sold farmsteads to wealthy British landowners and moved skilled labour from the parishes of Britain to new Church of England parishes in Canterbury. Quite simply, they collected rural life from the rolling meadows of England and delivered it onto the plains of Canterbury. The outstanding difference was that Britain's redundant workers were now living in a land where their rural skills were highly sought after. Their journey to New Zealand had delivered on its promise of a new life.

Visitors to Christchurch will no doubt be aware that the city is still rebuilding itself after a series of earthquakes between 2010 and 2012. The quakes left many of the buildings unsafe and needing to be torn down. Sadly, the cathedral at the heart of the city is one of those buildings. However, many of Christchurch's other historic buildings still stand, the historic tramway is running again and the river Avon is still open for punting.

The Otago Gold Rush

On May 20, 1861, an Australian prospector named Gabriel Read struck gold at Gabriel's Gully. Within six months, 14,000 prospectors were camped on the Tuapeka and Waipori fields.

The population of Dunedin swelled as people flocked to cash in. Dunedin soon became New Zealand's largest city and its resulting wealth enabled it to build New Zealand's first university in 1871 and construct the first passenger railway in 1878. As Otago bloomed, New Zealand became a popular destination for adventurous gold miners.

By 1862, the quest for gold had reached the banks of the Shotover River and gave rise to the community at Queenstown. Today, Eichardt's Hotel, McNeill's Brewery, the Lake Lodge of Ophir, the Queenstown Police Station and stone Courthouse, still stand as reminders of this prosperous time.

The Canterbury Association

The Chinese Miners

With the Otago Association successfully building Dunedin, Wakefield joined forces with Robert Godley to make plans for a

Word of the gold rush soon reached Asia and immigrants began to arrive from Southern China, where overpopulation, droughts,

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famine and peasant revolts had left many families in dire poverty.

The economic and social pressure forced many men to leave their wives and families and bravely travel overseas to make money to send back home. With their wives, parents and children suffering in their distant homeland, the Chinese men toiled in the gold mines of New Zealand trying desperately to scrape money together. Sadly, instead of returning home as successful men, the majority of Chinese immigrants became stranded in New Zealand.

The plight of early Chinese immigrants was worsened by cultural and linguistic barriers. This meant they were ostracised by Christian European communities and had to build their own settlements on the periphery of the larger European settlements.

Once the gold rush had passed, Chinese men found work in labour intensive industries such as fruit shops, laundries, commodity stores and market gardening. The importance of the Chinese effort was recognised in the 1940s, when the market gardening industry was acknowledged as essential cog in New Zealand's productivity.

To the north of Queenstown, a Chinese settlement has been partially restored at Arrowtown. With ten huts built around a social hall and a couple of stores, settlement stands as a poignant reminder of the life the Chinese faced during the gold rush. Each hut housed several men. No women lived in the settlement - the census of 1873 records over 3000 Chinese men living in New Zealand, but just one Chinese woman.

German immigration

The German Confederation during the latter half of the nineteenth century through to World War I was a tough and uncompromising place. Agricultural labourers in the north lived at the mercy of their landowners. The educated middle-classes had to endure tough military training and a lifestyle built on militaristic principles. With unjust social policies, tight censorship, scandalous propaganda and headed in a worrying direction, many Germans dreamed of freedom. The benefits of emigrating to New Zealand are described perfectly in a letter sent home by one German immigrant: "Things are good here in this colony. Each and everyone is completely free and has full civil rights. … So, dear mother-in-law, don’t worry about us at all, as we are probably the luckiest of your children,..."

More than 10,000 Germans migrated to New Zealand between 1843 and 1914. Their quest was simply to live free from political injustice and oppression. The New Zealand government was also keen to attract hard-working German workers. Timber workers were sourced from Pomerania to deforest a new settlement at Jackson Bay and large numbers of German workers were draughted in to construct the railways. This resulted in a large settlement being built near McNab in 1872, which was named Germantown.

A land of freedom and prosperity

Throughout the twentieth century, New Zealand attracted steady numbers of immigrants from all over the world. Assisted passage schemes were revived during the post war era to attract skilled European industrial workers - in particular, English and Dutch.

More recently, South Africans, Americans, Germans and Chinese 14

have also arrived in large numbers. Like those original settlers, modern immigrants come to New Zealand to enjoy the freedom and prosperity that it offers.

Today, New Zealand is renowned as a modern, forward-thinking, multicultural country that celebrates diversity and welcomes its visitors. New Zealand’s success has been built on the welcoming generosity of its original custodians, the Māori, and the values of equality and protection that were outlined in the Treaty of Waitangi. Despite their many cultural and ethnic differences, or whether they are a descendant of the original settlers or fresh off the boat, all Kiwis share a commonality - to enjoy their freedom and to welcome new visitors with open arms.

Connect with the story Our New Zealand The story of New Zealand starts at the Cook Strait. It was here that Kupe arrived following his epic adventure from Hawaiki, where Abel Tasman first discovered New Zealand and where Captain James Cook discovered New Zealand was two Islands. The reason that it features so regularly in the history of New Zealand is that trade winds lead through the Strait. The Cook Strait is also the meeting place of two seas, the Pacific and the Tasman, and the original meeting place of European and Maori cultures. A trip on the Interislander is a voyage through this history. Stand on deck as you sail the Strait and you will see the same view and weather that greeted those early explorers.

With favourable winds leading to the Strait, it made sense for early settlers to shelter in the huge natural harbour of Wellington. It was here that Kupe landed and it was here that the first European Settlers landed. It is now the Capital City and the home of Interislander and the Northern Explorer.

A trip on the Northern Explorer from Wellington will take you through the heart of New Zealand and the volcanic plateau where the Taupo Volcano once stood. Two volcanoes still dominate the skyline here, Mount Ruapehu and Mount Tongariro. Mount Ngauruhoe, which some will know as Mount Doom, also pierces the skyline and is a secondary chimney of Mount Tongariro. This region epitomises the volatile past of Zealandia.

At the end of the Northern Explorer route is the cosmopolitan megalopolis of Auckland. This immense city continues to grow and attracts thousands of fresh faces to New Zealand’s diverse ethnic population every year.

Auckland was a major destination for the European presettlers, who came for its whaling potential. To the north of Auckland are the original political hubs of Waitangi and Russell.

On the South Island, after the cathedral was finally built Christchurch became New Zealand’s second largest city.

Much of its growth was built around the Port of Lyttleton, where the Canterbury Settlers arrived, and the three railway trunk- lines that linked Christchurch to the north, south and west. The most remarkable of these lines the Midland Line which climbs across Southern Alps and carried New Zealand’s coal exports from the West Coast. Today this line is used by the TranzAlpine.

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Kaitaki

INTERISLANDER PLUS The perfect way to get the most out of your Cook Strait journey.

Regular customers and holidaymakers alike enjoy the comfort and added extras that Interislander Plus lounges provide. Upgrading is great value when you consider the inclusion of meals, drinks and comfortable seating. First and foremost for many, the lounges are restricted to passengers 18 years and over which many adults appreciate.

(There are great areas set aside for kids elsewhere. Cabins are another good option for families.)

Comfortable lounge-style seating is a feature of each of the three lounges, although each has a unique character and layout. Crew are always on hand in the lounge to ensure that your journey is enjoyable.

Looking for something to do? Plus lounges offer a good range of magazines and local newspapers. Wi-Fi is also included and available for most of the journey.

Food and drink is included in the price of the lounge upgrade. The meals provided vary to suit the time of the sailing. For example, there’s a breakfast served on 9am sailings, followed by morning tea items. The evening sailings offer more substantial hot options.

And look out for the warm scones with cream and jam – so simple yet so delicious!

There are plenty of drink options to accompany your meal too, from tea and coffee and a range of cold fruit juices and ginger beer, to local beers and wines.

Kaiarahi

Aratere

There is a lot to like about Interislander Plus, it is a service both well-liked by customers, and well-worth considering on your next trip with us.

Experience it now If you’re reading this on the ferry and wish to upgrade to Interislander Plus, please enquire at the on board shop.

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Find time to capture your Interislander memory

# FindTimeInterislander #Aratere

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Shoot & Share!

One of the greatest things about travelling somewhere new and exciting is sharing the experience. With the amazing views outside and fun relaxed environment inside, our journeys are particularly easy to share!

And with today’s technology, you can capture the magic of your journey, jump online and share it along with the emotions that inspired it - in an instant.

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So get snapping and share your shots using the hashtags #FindTimeInterislander or #NZbyTrain to share the magic of your journey with the world!

Get snapping and share your KiwiRail Scenic Journey

#NZbyTrain #TranzAlpine

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Life Flight DONORS Save Lives.

Interislander is a proud supporter of Life Flight and an event partner for the charity’s annual Open Day. Life Flight is a charity that provides emergency air services, including the Wellington-based Westpac Rescue Helicopter and a nationwide air ambulance service. It relies on support from the public and from partners, such as Interislander, to provide these services.

“I was so thankful when I heard them roar overhead. I was scared so I closed my eyes on the way up. I felt a shoulder tap about halfway up and opened my eyes to a beautiful sunset.”

More than 1,500 missions last year

Life Flight’s Open Day – Sunday 19 March

More than 1,500 missions were completed in 2016 by Life Flight’s Westpac Rescue Helicopter and Air Ambulance Plane. These include helping little babies, weighing less than a block of butter, get to the urgent specialist care they need, to trampers injured in thick bush needing to be rescued by winch and transported to hospital.

Alice was one of the people Life Flight helped last year. After a severe fall at Paraparaumu Reserve, bashing her knee, head and shoulder very hard, she made the right decision to call for help. Nearing the end of the day, Life Flight’s Westpac Rescue Helicopter needed to find her quickly and get her to the help she urgently needed before the sun set.

“The reality is if I hadn’t phoned 111, I don’t think I would have made it through the night because it was cold and there’s no road access at the reserve,” says Alice. I’ve also since realised that this could happen to anyone. Everything was fine, I was fit and healthy, then one fall changed everything in a heartbeat.”

The team found Alice, set her leg and winched her into the safety of the helicopter.

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Alice required knee surgery and several days in the hospital, but she’s grateful to be alive thanks to Life Flight.

Life Flight will open their hangar doors to the public on Sunday 19 March 2017, from 10am-2pm, for their annual Open Day. Go behind the scenes and get to know some of the team who help people like Alice on a daily basis.

The day includes exciting demonstrations from several emergency services, delicious food, spot prizes and an array of entertainment for everyone in the family. Attendees can even win a flight on Life Flight’s Westpac Rescue Helicopter.

Life Flight’s Air Rescue Centre is located at 17 George Bolt Street, Rongotai, Wellington. Entry by donation.

When every second counts, Life Flight is called. The donations collected during Open Day, and every day, keep Life Flight flying.

You can make a donation and find out more at lifeflight.org.nz.

SHIP SHAPE IN SYDNEY In May, Interislander’s Kaitaki’s ferry will make a longer than usual journey of 1,236 Nautical Miles across the Tasman Sea to Sydney. Instead she’ll turn left before the Sydney Opera house and reside for two and a half weeks at the Garden Island dock yard in the company of Royal Australian Navy vessels.

BY Malcolm Sims, Assistant Engineering Manager Interislander

Dry dockings occur every two and a half years for each of the three ships operated by Interislander. This is a critical activity and involves mandatory inspections by Maritime Coastguard Agency (UK), Maritime New Zealand and Classification Societies to ensure the vessels meet and comply with IMO and SOLAS regulations, which New Zealand is a signatory. Together with continuous preventative maintenance programmes, dry docks are a key part of ensuring safe and reliable year-round ferry operations.

Dry docks are scheduled at quieter times of year however, this is managed with bookings up two years in advance and in this case Sydney is the best option as it is the last remaining large facility in Australasia. As the Sydney facility is in high demand from the Royal Australian Navy, the two week voyage to Singapore is sometimes unavoidable.

The delivery crew for the trans-Tasman voyage is similar to Wellington to Picton operations, with a full complement of Deck Officers, Engineering Officers and of course, the cook!

Interislander Marine Specialists and Project Managers join them in Sydney, along with Compliance Officers and international specialists to suit the tasks at hand.

Aside from certification inspections the ship’s Deck and Engineering Officers undertake significant maintenance works while the ship is out of the water. This exercise cannot be understated for the 180 metre and 22,000 tonnes. It is an awe-inspiring sight and a privilege to stand beneath such a craft and think of all the elements that make this vessel what she is.

It is also a reminder of the commitment of all who manage and operate this ship to ensure positive experience for all.

gear holds a very important place in the ship’s daily operations, weighing in at a hefty 59.3 tonnes and capable of lifting a further 100 tonne pay load. Not just a static component, the ramp is designed to be bi-directional to facilitate the ships loading and unloading. On any one day during the summer, there can be loads of up to 260 vehicles and it will be called into action over 1200 times each year. The ramp is complemented with the additional capacity of a mezzanine deck, which can hoist 45 vehicles to be safely stowed for the sea journey. Ultimately, the continuous use of the cargo equipment necessitates special service treatment and as with many key parts, Interislander enlists international experts to assist in maintaining safe working equipment - in this case Marine Cargo Specialists TTS Sweden.

Additional ship inspection and servicing covers such items as steering gear, bow thrusters and ships stabiliser which ease the Cook Strait voyage. This equipment is essential for safely berthing the ship. Like all marine craft, small and large hull cleaning is an important activity to remove marine growth to ensure hull speed and fuel efficiency are maintained.

Passenger areas have benefited from significant refits in recent times, and thus aren’t on the work plan this time around.

However, the extended time out of service affords a chance to attend to maintenance work to high-wear areas like carpet, upholstery and paintwork.

When the dry dock is refilled, Kaitaki will sail back into Sydney Harbour for sea trials, prior to making the journey back home to New Zealand to resume her Cook Strait duties - until her next international sojourn.

A key work task is cargo ramp maintenance. From the moment that you drive your vehicle aboard, you are directed by crew to ascend the vehicle ramp to the upper deck. This critical cargo

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Photographs provided by: Mike Martin, Chief Engineer Interislander

NZ SUMMER

S PON S O R S H I P

Wellington Saints basketball proudly sponsored by Interislander The Wellington Saints are the most successful Wellington sporting franchise, winning nine national basketball league titles. We couldn’t do it without the support from the Interislander and you!

The Wellington Saints will travel on the Interislander to a preseason tournament in March, so look out for us on the 10th and 11th, come take a photo and say hi!

Interislander is the official game day sponsor of our 3rd home game of the season on Thursday 13th April. Tipoff is at 7pm so come down and experience some action-packed basketball! Just by attending the game you will be in to win some fantastic prizes and if you are lucky you could even be playing in our half-time shoot out!

We have retained key players from our 2016 Championship winning team. With Tai Wesley, Shea Ili, BJ Anthony, Leon Henry, Jordan Mills and Damien Ekenasio all ready to go for back to back titles.

Kevin Braswell who was successful in his very first session as a head coach confirmed, “I’m very pleased to be able to retain our core group of guys, they are all tremendous athletes and can space the floor, which is ideal with the system I want to run.”

Of course you can’t go to a Wellington Saints home game without meeting the best Mascot the whole of New Zealand has to offer, Magilla Gorilla. Unbeaten in every dance battle and this year in charge of the t-shirt gun that will be shooting prizes into the crowd.

All of the Wellington Saints home games are to be played at TSB Bank Arena, so what a way to start your holiday, after cruising on the Interislander. Watch the latest slam dunking action courtside with tickets available from as little as $8 for kids and $14 for adults.

Door sales are available at every game so check out the schedule on our website below - can’t wait to see you there!

Check us out on www.saints.co.nz, Facebook @ WellingtonSaints and Instagram @SaintsBasketball

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

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The trick is to access that data when you need it most - and that’s where some handy travel apps come to the rescue. Here’s our pick of the most helpful apps for touring New Zealand.

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

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

3. Navfree GPS 4.

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Voice-guided directions to your destination, without an expensive incar satellite system. Maps are stored on your device so routes remain clearly marked even if coverage is lost.

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

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

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Resilience Role Models Kelvin Watt, Regional Manager Graeme Dingle Foundation Marlborough

“I’m thinking of taking on a pretty big challenge and I want to do it for the benefit of local kids”, were the words that Marlborough endurance cyclist, Craig Harper, came to my door with some 8 months ago, “people told me I should talk to you”. Typical of this humble athlete’s style, this “pretty big challenge” turned out to be an epic undertaking – cycling the length of New Zealand in record- breaking time of just 4 days. Cape Reinga to Bluff in 96 hours, on a bike! As the Regional Manager (aka Fundraiser) of a local child development charity, of course I was interested.

The Graeme Dingle Foundation Marlborough aims to grow young people who are role models within their communities, instilling key foundational values such as respect, integrity and resilience through its incredibly successful Kiwi Can programme. Since its introduction in Marlborough in 2014 to just 400 students, it has expanded into 9 schools - this means that every week 40% of the region’s primary-aged students are now learning positive behaviours in Kiwi Can lessons.

99% of our costs are covered by our local community support, mostly through local sponsorship and fundraising activities – so we rely heavily on people like Craig to come up with these ideas.

Craig isn’t alone in his willingness to take on a major challenge in support of Kiwi Can. Over their morning coffee in May 2016, two managers at the Havelock Sanford office, Zane Charman and Grant Boyd were thinking of ways to support the programme that operates in the nearby primary school. It’s still unclear who first suggested the idea to kayak across the Cook Strait, but like the best of ideas - once verbalised, sometimes they grow into something spectacular and there’s just no going back.

Both Zane and Grant had minimal prior kayaking experience, but each had a solid commitment to raise as much money as possible and to make the voyage. Despite (or perhaps because of) the banter from colleagues, but most definitely with fantastic support from their business contacts, Zane and Grant made it across the waters in a surprisingly quick 3hrs 30min, having raised over $32k for Kiwi Can in the process.

This support fits so well with the Kiwi Can programme. We want our kids to build resilience, to take on challenges and bounce back from setbacks. In fact the programme spends an entire term focusing on aspects of resilience and these are skills our kids need as they move forward in this fast changing life. It’s fantastic to have the community role-modelling these skills in support of the programme.

It doesn’t stop with pedalling and paddling – over recent years an annual ‘Drop Your Boss’ fundraising event has seen members of the local community take a leap of faith (abseiling or skydiving) in support of Kiwi Can. In the Marlborough region alone, individuals have raised over

Craig Harper - training

$105,000 by literally ‘stepping out of their comfort zone’ and ‘taking a fall’ for Kiwi Can. This role modelling of taking on challenges resonates with the kids and encourages them to take on opportunities as well.

When the entire teaching staff at Havelock School took part in the Drop Your Boss Skydive event in 2015, a senior student who had demonstrated the values of Kiwi Can throughout the year stepped forward and joined them. “I’ve never been in a plane before, but I’m looking forward to this” she casually mentioned as she was guided away to get into her flight suit.

As this article goes to print, Craig is rounding up his training schedule with his own ‘Everest challenge’ before his length of NZ ride – spending his Sunday morning cycling up and down a nearby hill till his altitude gain is 8848m. “It’s the mental challenge that gets you through something like this… lots of people are just as fit as me… but once you reach a certain point it becomes more about mind-set.”. Craig Harper; not just an incredible endurance athlete (and possible length of NZ record- holder), but a fantastic local role-model who through his fundraising actions for Kiwi Can, is helping us to grow more young role-models across our community.

Thanks to Interislander for supporting our local role models in their ‘Crossing the Cook’ and ‘Long White Ride’ fundraising challenges. Interislander is also a sponsor of Graeme Dingle Foundation Marlborough – transforming young lives forever at the top of the south.

For more information about Kiwi Can and the Graeme Dingle Foundation, visit www.dinglefoundation.org.nz, or check out our Marlborough facebook page www.facebook.com/ graemedinglefoundationmarlborough. To find out if Craig succeeded in his record-breaking attempt visit www.facebook. com/thelongwhiteride.

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*Discount available online only. Enter the code Autumn17 in the promo code box on the payment screen when booking online and receive a 10% discount on any fare type. Discount valid for purchase and travel between 1 March - 30 June 2017. Our New Zealand magazine must be presented at terminal check-in. Terms and conditions apply.

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N Z AU T U M N

The golden days of Autumn

BY JO MAY

The golden days of Autumn are a beautiful time to visit New Zealand.

Whether you’re after arts or adventure, rural escapes or urban escapades, gourmet produce or world class wine, Autumn is a fantastic time to explore New Zealand.

The days are warm, but not too hot, the visitors are here, but not too many, and the options are endless, but we’ll help you choose a few.

take in the incredible landscapes of this country. Check out the Tongariro Crossing (www.doc.govt.nz/tongarironortherncircuit) and add it to your bucket list.

If you are in the north, don’t forget your togs, because the beaches are beautiful and the water balmy, in the long, lovely days of early autumn. It’s a great time to tick off a few must-dos, like detouring into Middle Earth via the Hobbiton Movie Set, featured in The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit films.

As you head south you’ll see why this is such a stunning time to see New Zealand, as vineyards, orchards and parks in places like Hawke’s Bay gleam in gold and russet, the beautiful garb of Autumn.

Some of New Zealand’s best walks are best walked at this time of year too, with settled weather and fewer people, allowing you to

It’s also a great time to visit our cities, including Wellington “the coolest little capital in the world”. Check out the spectacular displays at Te Papa and the spectacular birdlife at Zealandia.

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marlborough - Classic Fighters Omaka

Alternatively, just wander the city to discover your own favourite corners. Keep an eye on the harbour, as orca and dolphins like this time of year too.

If you love wine, there is no better time to visit than when the grapes are being harvested, and there’s a palpable buzz in the wine regions. Places like Marlborough are lit up at night, thanks to the light from wineries and harvesters working 24/7, and the scent of ferment wafts through the air. Take a cycle tour through the vines, to taste the ripe grapes, or visit a vineyard restaurant to try your favourite wines in the place they were made.

At Easter, Marlborough’s skies are buzzing with something else altogether, as Classic Fighters Omaka (www.classicfighters. co.nz) showcases more than 100 stunning aircraft from around the globe, along with their brilliant pilots. With air and ground displays, musical entertainment, local wine and food, a kid’s fun zone and classic car display, the weekend is a treat for more than just plane enthusiasts.

The West Coast has a classic autumn event too, with the Hokitika Wild Foods Festival on in early March. Brace yourself for a

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PIES

Bluff Oyster and Food Festival

dazzling array of delicacies, from whitebait patties to huhu grubs.

The coast also has a couple of fantastic rides in the New Zealand Cycle Trail, Nga Haerenga (www.nzcycletrail.com), including the gnarly and stunning Old Ghost Road, for experienced mountain bikers, or the West Coast Wilderness Trail for a more relaxed ride.

The quieter season makes this a wonderful time to explore these and other cycle trails.

To see autumnal beauty at its best, you have to visit Central Otago, where wide blue skies and lakes meet golden hills and trees in a breath-taking combination. The folk in Wanaka and the Southern Lakes love this time of year so much, they have a festival to celebrate it. The Festival of Colour (www.festivalofcolour.co.nz) is a chance to indulge in music, drama and art while exploring a beautiful region in a beautiful season.

Finally, at the bottom of the country at the end of Autumn, you’ll find a great excuse to visit. Head to Bluff on the 20th of May for the Bluff Oyster and Food Festival (www.bluffoysterfest.co.nz) for some of the freshest tastiest oysters you will ever taste, seasoned with the personalities of this tiny southern fishing town.

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N Z AU T U M N

west coast - the old ghost road

Protect your assets Aon is the major force in New Zealand for insurance broking, risk management, employee benefits and claims management.

We do business with leading insurance companies with strong financial security and superior claims paying ability.

To protect your assets and lifestyle, contact your local Aon branch today.

INSURANCE BROKERS

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Hobbiton Movie Set & Farm Tours Join then and experience the real Middle-earth™ at the Hobbiton Movie Set, where, in the heart of the Waikato region, you can step into the lush pastures of the Shire™, as seen in The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit trilogies.

Fall in love with the Alexander family sheep farm, just as acclaimed director Sir Peter Jackson did, as you journey through the unequivocal beauty of the land, with the mighty Kaimai Ranges towering in the distance. Your guide will then escort you around the set, showing the intricate detailing, pointing out the most famous locations and explaining how the movie magic was made.

You will be taken around the 12 acre set; past Hobbit Holes, the Mill and into the world-famous Green Dragon™ Inn, where you will be presented with a complimentary, exclusive beverage to conclude your own Middle-earth™ adventure. www.hobbitontours.com

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N Z AU T U M N

Your only chance to see...... ...the world’s only mainland breeding colony of the Royal Albatross, on the Otago Peninsula, a short scenic drive from Dunedin. Guided tours, souvenir shop & superb café.

Otago Peninsula

New ‘Royal cam’ star is born The Department of Conservation’s (DOC) ‘Royal cam’ albatross nest at Pukekura/Taiaroa Head on Otago Peninsula is home to a new chick hatched in January.

For the second year running DOC has set up a web cam beside an albatross nest in the Northern royal albatross breeding colony near Dunedin – the only mainland albatross breeding colony in the Southern Hemisphere.

Royalcam was an online phenomenon in 2016, with over 1 million views on Youtube.

DOC’s team and the staff at the Royal Albatross Centre are all hoping to repeat the success of last year’s chick, Moana, who made it through the trials of early life to fledge the nest in September last year. Moana, who was christened after a ‘name the chick’ competition, became an international reality celebrity.

BOOKINGS FREEPHONE 0800 528 767

www.albatross.org.nz

Hoani Langsbury, Manager of Operations Taiaroa Head for Otago Peninsula Trust says “The Royalcam engagement has been incredible and led to more visitors at the centre who are telling us they’ve been watching and learning from the live stream. As well as seeing Moana grow up they’ve been able to see courting, mating, egg laying, and now, watching the latest little chick grow. Royalcam is an incredible conservation outreach tool. We notice that people are appreciating the albatross more, having witnessed their lives and been so impressed by the care and intimacy of the Royalcam family. ” The egg was laid on 12 November 2016 and since then the parents (known as BK and RBK) took turns on the nest, then feeding and guarding the chick. From late March they leave it unguarded, except for feeding visits, until it fledges (is ready to fly) at about eight months.

Viewing is a compulsion as this little bird faces a whole raft of challenges in its first months including extremes of weather, reliance on both its parents to continue to provide enough food to sustain it throughout winter as well as vulnerability to stoats and other pests. In spring, chicks leave Taiaroa Head to spend 4-10 years circumnavigating the southern hemisphere.

Unforgettable retreat accommodation on the banks of the Whanganui River. Set in bush clad surroundings, our unique accommodation is like stepping back in time. An ideal retreat from the fast pace of modern living. accessed only via aerial cable way or jet boat FULLY SELF-CONTAINED HAND BUILT COTTAGES, CAMPING OR GLAMPING TENTS, CATERING AVAILABLE, FREE WI-FI

T: 06 9276809

theflyingfoxwhanganui

www.theflyingfox.co.nz 26

whanganui river

Get away from it all retreat and accommodation on the banks of the Whanganui River.

The Flying Fox offers camping, glamping and cottage accommodation in a unique setting on the banks of the Whanganui River surrounded by the National Park. There is no road access to the site and they do not have cell phone reception or television, therefore it is an ideal place to get away from the hustle and bustle of modern life. o u r n e w z e a l a n d.c o. n z

Their business and property is run using eco-friendly principles of organics and permaculture. They are 'off grid' for everything except electricity, however their cottages and glamping tents are comfortably furnished and equipped with everything you will need for your stay including books, music, linen and tea/coffee making supplies. www.theflyingfox.co.nz

WALKING & HIKING

PHOTO: Abel Tasman National Park Nelson credit Julian Apse

TAKE A GREAT WALK Walking can be one of the most rewarding ways of seeing the outstanding beauty of the landscapes and wilderness areas that New Zealand has to offer.

With thousands of kilometres of tracks, walking options are available to suit all levels of fitness and experience. You can choose to walk day walks for a few hours or a day or plan a multiday hike through national parks, native forests and stunning coastal regions.

About one third of New Zealand's sparsely populated land has been set aside in national parks or reserves for the enjoyment of the public and increasing numbers of eco-tourists.

While opportunities for exploration exist all over the country, nine destinations are recognised as significant and have been designated ‘Great Walks’ by the Department of Conservation (DOC).

So, take a walk, a Great Walk, through some of New Zealand’s most awe-inspiring landscapes

Three 'Great Walks' are in the North Island

Lake Waikaremoana Situated east of the central volcanic plateau, in one of the North Island’s most remote regions. The 46km (28 miles) track encircles the lake, providing a four to five-day walk.

Tongariro Northern Circuit Island This is a loop track of three to four days, starting and finishing at the foot of Mount Ruapehu. Few places equal the drama of this active volcanic region with its lava formations, tussock grassland, fumaroles and geysers, and emerald green mineral lakes - the setting for the scenes in New Zealand director Peter Jackson's The Lord of the Rings trilogy. Altitude and climatic conditions mean the Tongariro circuit is best walked from late November to March.

The Tongariro Crossing - one section of the circuit - is one of New Zealand’s most renowned day walks.

Whanganui Journey Included as one of New Zealand's 'Great Walks', the Whanganui Journey is more correctly a 145km kayak or canoe journey down the Whanganui River. Beginning in Taumaranui, this journey takes about five days to complete and provides an early New Zealand history experience.

Five of New Zealand's 'Great Walks' are in the South Island; a sixth is further south on Stewart Island.

Abel Tasman Coast Track The Abel Tasman Coastal Track, at the top of the South Island, only requires light walking shoes for the 50km (31 miles) route lined with miles of golden beaches. Along the way, five huts and 21 campsites offer accommodation, but transport has to be arranged from one end or the other. The walk takes around three to five days.

Heaphy Track The Heaphy Track, in the northwestern corner of the South Island, has over 80km (around 50 miles). The walk takes about five days. The track is accessible year round, but winter snows can make the higher sections chilly. Attractions on the Heaphy Track include the nikau palm-lined beach at its western end, red tussock downs, lush beech forests and fields of alpine herbs.

Routeburn Track The Routeburn Track, another famous South Island track, has some of the most diverse scenery: forests, alpine flora, lakes, several waterfalls and panoramic views. The three-day trek covers 39km (24 miles).

Kelper Track The Kepler Track follows a loop that begins and ends at the Fiordland National Park Visitor Centre in Te Anau. It takes four days and traverses lakeside forest and open tussock grasslands, with one day spent walking along the mountain tops above the bush line.

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WA L K I NG & H I K I NG

Milford Track The Milford Track in Fiordland - New Zealand’s largest national park - is the most famous. Visitors spend four days / three nights following historic Māori routes through a dramatic landscape of forest-covered valleys, mountains and steep fiords from Lake Te Anau to Milford Sound.

Two or three day unguided coast walk WHANGAREI HEADS, NORTHLAND • Based in the stunning Whangarei Heads area • Spectacular natural scenery • Return to purpose built accommodation each night • Only three hours from Auckland CBD • Fabulous fresh food included

Phone: 09 434 0571 Check out online for our specials www.coastwalks.nz

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Rakiura Track Escape to an island adventure and enjoy the tranquility of Stewart Island/Rakiura.

This 3 day track is 32 km and passes historical interests and introduces many of the common sea and forest birds of the island. To get to Oban, the only township on Stewart Island/Rakiura, you can take a 20-minute flight from Invercargill or a 1-hour ferry trip across Foveaux Strait from the southern port of Bluff.

Information

Great Walks are accessible from major towns and tourist centres that are well serviced by local operators and accommodation and transport providers.

For further track information, seasonal information and latest safety conditions please visit greatwalks.co.nz

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Cougar Line, the Marlborough Sounds premier privately owned water transport company, has over 25 years’ experience transporting people and goods to and from the Queen Charlotte Track, resorts and private homes along the Marlborough Sounds.

You can trust the Cougar Line to make sure your Marlborough Sounds experience goes to plan. Providing a fast and efficient service to all resorts along the Queen Charlotte Sound their experienced staff have a wide knowledge of the area and are extremely friendly and helpful.

Cougar Line are the experts in advising you of all options to walk the Queen Charlotte Track. www.cougarlinecruises.co.nz

Bream Head Coast Walks offer a fresh adventure around the Whangarei Heads in Northland.

They offer a 2 or 3 day inclusive package of stunning walks(unguided), boutique accommodation and great food.

The walk encompasses private farmland, stunning ocean and harbour beaches, rural roads, recreational reserves and existing public walkways. www.coastwalks.co.nz

WA L K I NG & H I K I NG

Take a short walk EXPLORE NEW ZEALAND WITH THESE GREAT short WALKS

through stunning scenery on one of DOC’s 500+ tracks

While you’re travelling around the country this summer, try out one of the 500+ short walks on Department of Conservation (DOC) land. There’s great short walks scattered throughout the country, whether you’re looking for holiday daytime activities for the family or a quick stretch of the legs on a road trip.

On the northern side of the ferry crossing, there’s some fantastic walks in and around the Wellington area.

Schedule in a day trip to Kapiti Island, host to one of the largest accessible island bird sanctuaries in New Zealand.

Take a vigorous walk to the top of the island to soak in the sweeping views over Cook Strait and the South Island, and be surrounded by precious native birds rarely seen on the mainland.

If you’re taking the Alternative Route from Picton to Christchurch, there’s plenty of options for breaking up the long journey at various picnic areas, short walks and campsites along the way.

The 20-minute return Alpine Nature Walk in Lewis Pass provides an opportunity to break up a long drive while enjoying spectacular scenery and beech forest. Those with more time and the right gear might like to tackle the Lewis Tops Track (1 hr 30 min one way), where a climb to the open tops will reward you with superb views and picturesque tarns.

R102172

The stunning Lake Rotoiti makes for a great spot to stretch your legs. Several short walks will lead you through majestic beech forest, and the expansive views across the lake are more than Insta-worthy.

Find out more at doc.govt.nz/shortwalks View from Tuteremoana, highest point on Kapiti Island.

Photo: DOC

Discover these and many more walks at doc.govt.nz/ shortwalks

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ARTS

DISCOVER THE ARTS Generating in excess of 1000 public exhibitions and publications and attracting over 8 million visits each year, museums and galleries are a top attraction for overseas visitors.

New Zealand museums and galleries care for more than 40 million items relating to our history and contribute to our national identity.

New Zealand museums are actively focused on enriching their communities by enhancing the quality of their facilities, collections, programmes, products and services. Museums play a pivotal role in the national heritage and education.

There are also more than 460 museums around the country, many doubling as art galleries, ranging from specialist regional and private collections to the impressive National Museum Te Papa Tongarewa, in Wellington.

New Zealand artists and their works are receiving increasing recognition on the international stage.

Galleries around New Zealand hold exhibitions that feature the works of nationally and internationally acclaimed artists, as well as fresh, new talent.

Historical artworks are mostly held in the collections of the larger museums and public libraries in the main cities.

Museums

If you want to understand what makes New Zealand tick, visit museums wherever you go. Finding out the why, where, how and who in any town or city adds an extra layer to your travel experience.

Each of our major museums has its own specialties. Auckland Museum is known for an impressive collection of Maori and Polynesian artefacts; Te Papa in Wellington offers a very modern, and often interactive, learning experience; Canterbury Museum has a strong focus on Antarctica; Otago Museum in Dunedin 30

takes an in-depth look at the natural and social history of the South Island. The provincial cities also have plenty to show you - check out Puke Ariki in New Plymouth and the wearable art museum in Nelson. Then there is Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre in Marlborough which offers a fabulous treasure of aviation history.

Small museums also deserve your attention, because they’re often eccentric and surprising. Kauri trees, coal and gold mining, cable cars, caves, toys, volcanic eruptions, army equipment, boats, trains and planes - the subject matter is wonderfully diverse.

Art Galleries

Art galleries are the window to New Zealand's soul. They reflect something of where we've been and where we’re going and there are hundreds to explore.

In major public art galleries - found in Auckland, Wellington, Nelson, Christchurch and Dunedin - you can browse historic collections that take you back to the 1800s, when the country was undergoing its most significant transformation. Modern works are also featured - keep an eye out for works by Hotere and McCahon, two our most acclaimed contemporary artists.

Public galleries focus on regional artists, but they also have impressive national and international collections.

Dealer galleries can be found throughout the country, and they represent a chance to take home an enduring reminder of your New Zealand holiday. Most galleries are more than happy to arrange safe shipping for your treasure. You should also look for road signs advertising artists’ studios - you’ll get to meet the artist and you might have the chance to watch art in the making.

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TH E A R T S

Claphams National Clock Museum Whangarei’s world-famous clock museum is home to over 1600 clocks and timepieces, making it the largest collection of clocks in the Southern Hemisphere.

Many Whangarei locals recall with fondness and a chuckle, the inventor, entertainer and practical joker who was Archibald Clapham – or Archie, as he was more commonly known. Archie’s personal collection of around 400 clocks once took up most of his family home. Yorkshireborn Archie, who moved to New Zealand in 1903, was well-known for happily opening his doors to those who wanted to come and see his collection.

Known for his quirky character and sense of humour, Archie’s favourite clocks were the ones that did something unexpected, and made people laugh. Archie’s funloving spirit still remains with his unique collection today, at the purpose-built Claphams National Clock Museum in Whangarei’s Town Basin.

In 1961, Archie sold his clocks to the local Council for a nominal sum, effectively

gifting his amazing collection to the community he had adopted. The collection has grown to encompass many rare and notable exhibits, which you can now enjoy alongside Archie’s old favourites.

From mind-boggling backwards clocks, to antique French dancing girl clocks, and even clocks that make the tea – there’s something to amuse every curious and carefree mind at Claphams Clock Museum!

Town Basin, Dent Street, Whangarei www.claphamsclocks.com

The Glenbrook Vintage Railway A nostalgic 15 km return trip back in time through the beautiful rural Franklin countryside, aboard a lovingly restored vintage steam train. During your 1 hour round trip to Victoria Avenue, Waiuku and back, the train will pause at Pukeoware Depot for passengers to view locomotives and other rolling stock under overhaul or restoration.

You can break your journey and visit historic Waiuku, then catch the next train back to Glenbrook station.

Trains depart From Glenbrook every 75 minutes starting at 11:00 with the last train at 16:00. Passengers are welcome to alight at Victoria Avenue and explore the township of Waiuku and catch a later train back to Glenbrook.

ates Oper ys & a Sund olidays H c i Publ am

11

to

m 3.30p

Train operate Sundays and most public holidays from Labour Weekend (late October) to Queens Birthday weekend (early June).

153 Glenbrook Station Road, Mauku, Auckland www.gvr.co.nz

Check out the reviews on www.tripadvisor.com o u r n e w z e a l a n d.c o. n z

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TH E A R T S

Discover New Zealand's seafaring history Explore the journeys made by migrants to New Zealand in a compelling exhibition inspired by real-life experiences. Created by social practice artist, Tiffany Singh, the installation personalises and unpacks the conversations around the process of resettling in Aotearoa.

Relevant and engaging, “The Journey of a Million Miles – Following Steps” will transform the Edmiston Gallery at the New Zealand Maritime Museum into a stunning and thoughtprovoking environment from 18 March – 3 September. Music, audio and digital technology are used to convey and share a variety of migration experiences that reflect the joy, heartache and confusion of moving to a new land. Visitors will also be able to share their immigration stories, which will be integrated into the exhibition.

“I hope that by engaging with the artwork and the stories, people will take away a new understanding of what it’s like to resettle here,” says Singh. “Through listening to the different stories there is the potential to build tolerance, compassion and an awareness that can filter down to the younger generations so that we can build a more harmonious society.”

Go to the Maritime Museum’s website to see a range of public programmes that will accompany the exhibition – everything from public talks, holiday programme workshops, live performances and family days. maritimemuseum.co.nz

Sharing stories of arrival in Aotearoa.

18 March - 03 September New Zealand Maritime Museum cnr Quay & Hobson Streets www.maritimemuseum.co.nz

A work by social practice

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BUY NZ MADE

Buying New Zealand Made Whenever travelling, we always love to bring something home that is unique to the area that we have travelled to, whether in our home country or abroad.

Whenever travelling, we always love to bring something home that is unique to the area that we have travelled to.

• T-shirts with Kiwi designs will often be made offshore – just check the label inside the T-shirt for the country of origin.

Some of us have been caught out with past purchases where we have thought we were buying a genuine local item only to find that the majority of the product has been imported and really not local at all.

• Be careful when purchasing Paua or Greenstone jewellery as some of these items found in general tourist shops are imported.

So what steps can we take to ensure the product we buy is of local origin?

Here are some ideas for a few items that are common purchases for tourists and are often only disguised as NZ Made.

• Sheepskin, wool and merino items - check again the country of origin as while the items may use NZ raw materials, the finished item may be manufactured off-shore - and in some cases the raw materials are not even NZ grown!

• Beauty creams and health supplements - have the ingredients been imported and simply mixed together here? If so, you have not got a genuine NZ Made product.

To be really safe, when looking for a genuine NZ Made product, look for stylised kiwi-in-a-triangle trademark. The kiwi trademark is copy righted to the Buy NZ Made Campaign, an organisation that provides a licence for its use to member businesses

• Souvenirs that have a Kiwi look about them can often be made abroad, so it is worth checking the country of origin before purchasing.

All members are aware of the requirements for labelling a product as NZ Made. You can find members and a sample of their products in our Marketplace at www.buynzmarket.org.nz

Basically Bush

Anoa Design Limited

PURE LUXURY MERINO

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

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

OBR (One Beach Road) is where the design studio is, right beside the sea where they are inspired to design luxury Merino garments for you. They have been making garments in New Zealand for over 20 years, and can take pride in the fact that they are all 100% New Zealand made.

They are the number #1 experts in New Zealand made luxury merino products and sell their garments all over the world.

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

Anoa's bespoke Florian Rhodes Leather handbags and accessories can be found at the Christchurch branch and is manufactured by a talented team of ladies who's skills and commitment ensure that each product is finished to the highest quality.

www.obrmerino.co.nz

Check them out for yourself at 163 Ferry Road, Christchurch.

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

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buy n z made

THE MERINO STORY The Merino Story was born from the tent at the Wanaka A & P Show and now has stores in a number of convenient locations throughout New Zealand. Their stores are all different and are set up to meet the needs of the locality they are sited in. They have lovely friendly staff who are passionate about the product and are always keen to help their customers find what they are looking for. If they don't have a particular style in store they will work hard at trying to find it for you.

The stores are full with lovely merino in gorgeous colours which feature their favourite long cardigan, their stunning but practical merino dress, an incredible cape and a great range of basics. Their stores carry the most extensive range of merino possum garments for men and ladies from a wide range of great New Zealand manufacturers such as Native World, Snowy Peak, Lothlorian, and Noble Wilde. Even better still all these brands in their stores, carry a fantastic Store Discount of 15% Off all merino possum garments - making these garments affordable.

stock lovely ranges of merino from Bay Road, Koko Road and Jual featuring the excellent and versatile range of Brass Monkeys for their men. This range stands out for its quality, its price and its practical use for the working man.

The Merino Story has just recently opened in the iconic buildings of The Sheep and Ram in Tirau. These are great for a visit and of course have a great range of excellent products to purchase.

Come on in and visit one of their stores situated in Huntly, Tirau, Hinds, Timaru, Fairlie, Lake Tekapo, Wanaka, Gore and Milton.

The Merino Story produces very high quality merino - Made in New Zealand - that lasts and lasts. Their range stands out as featuring the most gorgeous colours and at great prices. At present they are struggling to keep up with the demand and are continuously working at keeping sizes in the stores. They also

ION MENT AND D A IS TH IVE MASS GET A y

ff an 15% o ossum oP Merin ment. gar

Specialising in New Zealand Made Merino and Merino Possum.

Gorgeous colours and great selection of styles in store.

Riverhaven 160 Great South Rd, Huntly, Waikato 07 828 7013

19 Peters Street Main Road, Hinds 03 303 7621

State Highway 8 Lake Tekapo 03 680 6656

Waimate Knitwear 8 Union Street Milton 03 4174511

72 Main Street Gore, Southland 03 208 0310

Main Street Fairlie 03 685 6292

THE MERINO STORY - TIRAU The Merino Story now open in The Sheep, Tirau

63 Brownston St Wanaka 03 443 5660

www.themerinostory.com 36

o u r n e w z e a l a n d.c o. n z

Shop 1, Hilton Highway Washdyke, Timaru 03 688 7329

The Merino Story 29 Main Road, Tirau 07 883 1584

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*Discount available online only. Enter the code Autumn17 in the promo code box on the payment screen when booking online and receive a 10% discount on any available fare type. Discount valid for purchase and travel between 1 March - 30 June 2017. Our New Zealand magazine advertisement must be presented at station check-in.

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AC C O M M O DAT I ON P I C K S

Our Autumn Accommodation Picks

WELCOME TO OUR PLACE. MAKE YOURSELF AT HOME! Our park is a little oasis just 400 meters from the middle of Whitianga township. Easy walk to restaurants and bars, beaches and boats!

Only a 40 minute drive to Cathedral Cove and Hot water Beach to the south and New Chums and Coromandel town to the north.

Super sized camping and caravan sites and accommodation to suit every budget.

YO U R H O S T S G E O R G I N A & WA RW I C K

info@mercurybayholidaypark.co.nz

www.mercurybayholidaypark.co.nz

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

Whitianga

Mercury Bay Holiday Park If you are looking for a quiet, relaxed atmosphere with quality camping and accommodation options and great facilities, then Mercury Bay Holiday Park is the perfect base for you and your family. A easy walk to restaurants, shops, wharf and swimming beach means you can leave the car, campervan, motorbike or pushbike at the Park and easily explore Whitianga on foot.

They are only 2.5 hours drive from Auckland, Hamilton and Tauranga. Centrally located on the eastern side of the Coromandel Peninsula the ideal central location with Hot Water Beach and Cathedral Cove only 40 minutes’ drive south and New Chums Beach, Opito Bay and Coromandel Township only 45 minutes’ drive north.

They have a bed for every budget – from camping to glamping! Budget cabins to fully equipped kitchen cabins and self-contained units or 4 star chalets. Their Qualmark 4 star facilities include a seasonal swimming pool, children’s play area and free BBQ’s. mercurybayholidaypark.co.nz

Ruapehu

The Park Hotel

ON THE DOORSTEP OF MT RUAPEHU The place to stay when you are doing the crossing and having fun on the slopes. We cater for all your accommodation needs. Rest & relax at the end of the day in our restaurant / bar and spa pools.

The Park Hotel is part of the Distinction Hotel Group and offers the biggest variety of accommodation in National Park. The Park Hotel is the ideal base for exploring New Zealand's most popular one day walk - The Tongariro Alpine Crossing. They offer fantastic Tongariro Crossing packages including breakfast, guided walks, packed lunches and transport to and from the Tongariro Crossing track.

From premium hotel rooms, to self catering family rooms to comfortable loft rooms, there is an accommodation style to suit every travellers needs and budget. Enjoy picturesque alpine views of Mts Ruapehu, Tongariro, Ngauruhoe (Mt Doom in the Lord of the Rings filming locations) from the hotel.

The on-site Spiral Restaurant & Bar is full of character and is open daily. The outdoor hot tubs, courtyard hammocks & open fireplaces are complimentary for guests and offer the perfect opportunity to relax and unwind after a day of adventure in the Ruapehu region. The Place to stay when you are doing the crossing and having fun on the slopes. The Park has transformed itself into a lodge designed with travellers, adventurers and families in mind. the-park.co.nz

Cnr SH4 & Millar St, National Park Village

e: bookings@the-park.co.nz 07 8922748 or 0800 800 491 38

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acc o mm o dat i o n p icks

Taranaki Motels The best range of accommodation in New Plymouth.

New Plymouth

Brougham Heights Motel Brougham Heights Motel and Apartments, provides you with "the personal alternative" to your accommodation needs in New Plymouth CBD. Their 35 room New Plymouth motel and apartments complex offers a full range of room options with free parking outside your unit.

They offer a range of studio, 1 bedroom and 2 bedroom apartments with a variety of cooking options.

If you are wanting dining options then look no further than the Table restaurant directly across the road, they will even deliver if you wish to have in room service. Full cooked breakfasts are cooked on site and delivered to your room.

In New Plymouth on business then ask us about one of our conference or meeting rooms.

These are ideal for planning sessions or interviews. Their conference centre being so close to the centre of New Plymouth makes an ideal venue for many events.

Discover your next home away from home at Brougham Heights Motel, and Fitzroy Beach Motel

Freephone NZ 0800 107 008 or call +64 6 757 9954

www.taranakimotels.co.nz

Enquire direct about their business rates and book direct for more savings. Brougham Heights Motel and Apartments offers a full loyalty programme for regular guests.

Brougham Heights Motel is situated right in the centre of the city, which allows guests to be able to walk around the city and enjoy what New Plymouth has to offer. broughamheights.co.nz

Napier

Ballina Motel One of Hawke's Bay's newest luxury air-conditioned motels – the place where "those in the know" choose to spend their time while staying in Napier.

The small size allows them to focus on those important little details and provide personal service to ensure that your stay is both a relaxing and memorable experience.All their spacious rooms are air-conditioned (to provide some relief from Hawke's Bay's high summer temperatures and warmth in winter), and furnished to a high standard of quality which is reflected in their "4 Star plus" independently assessed Qualmark grading.

They make it easy for you to stay connected with family and work colleagues while you are travelling, which is why they provide FREE unlimited wired or wireless (WIFI) internet.

Their quiet residential location ensures that you arise fully refreshed to take on the new day’s challenges and fully enjoy the great Napier and Hawke's Bay lifestyles and glorious weather.

Centrally located in Taradale midway between Napier and Hastings city centres – ensures that you are close to all of Hawke's Bay's diverse range of activities and attractions. Ballina Motel is within easy walking distance of the cafe's, restaurants, bars, and the main shopping centre of Taradale.

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

ballinamotel.co.nz o u r n e w z e a l a n d.c o. n z

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COROMANDEL

Good for your soul

BY JO MAY

The splendid isolation of The Coromandel lies just down the road from the bustling metropolis of Auckland, but it is a world away.

The Coromandel does not have very distinct seasons. As the region has a lengthy coastline it enjoys a subtropical/oceanic climate with year-round moderate temperatures and no particular rainy season. This makes it an excellent destination for those who wish to experience nature up close and relax and explore the untouched beauty to be found here.

Locals would say that Autumn in The Coromandel is actually the end of a really long Summer. In fact, it is effectively Summer for six months of the year. And as the light takes a golden tinge, and the days draw in ever so slightly, the great weather continues through March and into the Autumn hues of April and May. The kiwi holiday makers have returned to school and work, and the locals sit back and welcome the prime time. It's the relaxed Coromandel feeling and the simple ways of enjoying its golden bays.

With settled weather, warm seas (still over 20 degrees C) and cooler evenings, the clear air of the crisper mornings are a call to get out and get active. In fact, this is the best time of year for many of the outdoor activities visitors seek: walking the remote Coromandel Coastal Walkway, hiking to the summit of The Pinnacles, and cycling the Hauraki Rail Trail to explore the relics of local heritage and the varied landscapes traversed by the track. The ECHO Walking Festival held during the month of April offers an opportunity to get out and discover many of The Coromandel’s lesser-known walks with local guides.

At the Stony Bay end of the coastal walkway, the road leaves the coast at Port Charles and winds past Tangiaro Kiwi Retreat, a beautiful and important ecological property that is home to more than 50 kiwi. Here guests can listen to kiwi calling in the 40

native bush around the lodges at night, perhaps while laying back in the open air bush spas. or by visiting the nearby kiwi viewing platform. Great for a prolonged get away, with a café on site.

The Coromandel was once a hippy haven and while it’s established now as a more mainstream playground, the region has retained an arty, creative flavour. Many of the towns have galleries with a selection of local fine arts and crafts. Private artists’ studios nestle in the hills and valleys, where the artists can draw on the untouched nature for creative inspiration. As you re-enter Coromandel Town, you come upon one such creative mecca, Driving Creek Railway, known for its narrow-gauge mountain railway but also home to a large collection of ceramic art. The one-hour train ride traverses a series of engineering marvels including viaducts and tunnels, up to a lookout over the bay with panoramic views. The track is lined with pottery sculptures and the station houses a pottery and craft gallery.

The eastern seaboard of The Coromandel is home to well-known surf and white sand beaches, and the sheltered waters of Mercury Bay, with its distinctive protective islands. Whitianga is the largest town, and it is here you can find a range of accommodation, from the finest backpacker accommodation at Turtle Cove to the sophistication of Marina Park Apartments. Both these options provide all you need for a relaxing getaway, situated right by the water and close to the town centre, ferry wharf and Buffalo Beach.

It is here that you can take a boat to the visit the natural wonders of this volcanic coast with its remarkable sea caves, secret blowholes and rocky outcrops, including the famous Cathedral Cove.

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COROMANDEL

Driving Creek Railway & Potteries

In the southernmost part of The Coromandel, the landscape changes yet again, as the Hauraki Plains stretch out west from the ranges to the hills just south of Auckland, across the firth of Thames. This is an area best explored by bike, on the Hauraki Rail Trail which traverses these plains, on stop banks, over marshlands, through tranquil pastures and peaceful small rural towns. Ideal at a leisurely pace, stopping off to enjoy homegrown produce, boutique wines and cheeses and to explore the relics of gold heritage and pioneering spirit in these parts.

Autumn is also a good time to encounter the thermal activity running under the the region, with the hot springs more appealing as the air temperature cools a little. A good time to experience the childlike thrill of digging your own spa pool in the sand at hot water beach or a restorative soak in one of the natural thermal pools. The mineral waters are known for their relaxing, healthful properties, and bathing in one of the spas provides an escape for the senses.

So, take a break from the everyday as the endless summer stretches into Autumn, where the slower pace of life in The Coromandel really is good for your soul.

FREE Wifi – FREE Breakfast Quality mattresses – Bed Linen Great Location – Buses at Gate If you are planning to visit Mercury Bay and require an affordable but comfortable place to stay, in a great location, then Turtlecove Backpacker is just the place for you.

We have a variety of bed options with motel quality bedding, a well appointed kitchen and we are only 3mins walk to the Supermarket or Town and 30mins by vehicle to Hot Water Beach, Cathedral Cove, Shakespeare Cliff and Purangi Winery.

Accommodation, Restaurant Weddings, Functions Nestled within 800 acres of native bush we have 13 fully self-contained Chalets’ – one, two and three bedroom options. With your personal onsite massage therapist available by appointment & private outdoor bush spa pools, this is the perfect place to relax and rejuvenate.

14 Bryce St, Whitianga 3510 P: +64 7 8671517 E: welcome@turtlecove.co.nz

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

www.turtlecove.co.nz

www.kiwiretreat.co.nz

SPECIALS FOR 3+ DAY STAYS

o u r n e w z e a l a n d.c o. n z

One hour return scenic train ride on a narrow gauge mountain railway through native forest. Unique pottery sculptures & tiles line the track. Enjoy panoramic views from the EyeFull Tower lookout. Pottery & books for sale. Multiple daily tours.

Suitable all ages & weather conditions.

380 Driving Creek Road, 3km north of Coromandel Town

P: 0800 327 245

E: bookings@dcrail.nz

B OOKINGS ADVISABLE

www.dcrail.co.nz

Adjacent to the picturesque Whitianga Marina, and conveniently located just a two minute walk from the local shopping centre, our contemporary designed apartments are perfect for a quality stay in the Coromandel region.

P. 07 8660599 E. info@marinapark.co.nz 84 Albert Street, Whitianga

www.marinapark.co.nz

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WELLINGTON

WEEKEND IN THE CAPITAL

BY JO MAY

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ournewzealan d.co. nz

Cuba Dupa Festival

WELLINGTON

Wellington is the perfect weekend destination; a compact city alive with excitement and energy, matched with the warmth and walkability of a village. Art adorns the streets and the paths, as well as gallery walls.

The coffee is the stuff of legend and the service is legendary.

From the delectable trail down Hannahs Laneway to the buzz of the Night Markets on Cuba Street, and the eclectic crowd at one of the craft beer bars, surround yourself in colour, character and good taste in the capital of cool.

Stroll the streets, the waterfront, the parks and the board walks.

And when the sun goes down, that’s when things really start to heat up.

Whether you bring your partner, friend or the whole family, and whether you want to take it easy or go hard, do more with your weekend in Wellington.

Shop

From boutiques stocking local and international designers, to quirky gift stores, Wellington is a treasure trove of beautiful new things. Street markets, antique, vintage and second-hand stores

hold one-of-a-kind creations to uncover. Best of all, Wellington is an easily walkable city and makes a day's shopping nice and simple.

Check out Lambton Quay for David Jones, Top Shop, lululemon athletica, RUBY, Ricochet and Cranfields; Willis Street for Unity Books, Coco and R.M. Williams; Victoria Street for Good As Gold, Suprette, WORLD, Vessel and Kilt; Wakefield Street for The Service Depot, Karen Walker, Brown&Co and Small Acorns; Cuba Street for Hunters & Collectors, Ziggurat, Iko Iko, Kate Sylvester, Mandatory; Ghuznee Street for Precinct 35, ENA, Caughley and Deadly Ponies; and so many more.

Explore

Blessed with a beautiful natural harbour the Wellington waterfront is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.

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

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W E L L I NGTON

Many activities are based around the waterfront from harbour cruises, strolling from Queens Wharf to Oriental Bay, and swimming at the golden sand beach to rollerblading and rock-climbing for the more adventurous.

You haven’t experienced Wellington until you’ve been on a unique harbour ferry service. On the trip, out you’ll have great views back to Wellington City and really get a feel for what makes Wellington and its harbour surrounds so special. It’s also not uncommon to see dolphins and other sealife playing in the harbour.

Across the harbour lies Days Bay and the village of Eastbourne. East

By West Ferries runs regularly from Wellington’s waterfront. When you arrive in Days Bay, you can browse art galleries, go for a walk in the hills, or wander around to the quaint seaside suburb of Eastbourne where you’ll find delis, boutiques and cafes.

Support local artists and designers every Saturday on Wellington’s waterfront

Zealandia

Zealandia - Just minutes from downtown Wellington, yet a world apart, Zealandia is home to some of New Zealand's most rare and extraordinary wildlife - all thriving wild in a world-first protected sanctuary valley. Visit the Exhibition to learn about Zealandia's vision to restore the valley to the way it was before the arrival of humans, then venture into The Sanctuary Valley to wander a selection of outdoor walks that take you through beautiful native bush.

Get up close and personal with a three-eyed prehistoric reptile, and New Zealand’s native birds. Catch a free shuttle to this ground-breaking eco-sanctuary from Wellington i-SITE Visitor Information Centre at the top of the Cable Car.

Take home a unique piece of Wellington and enjoy our international street food court!

SATURDAYS 10AM TO 4PM Under Frank Kitts Park

www.undergroundmarket.nz 44

o u r n e w z e a l a n d.c o. n z

W E L L I NGTON

Underground Market

Take home your own piece of the creative capital and unearth a little treasure at Wellington’s weekly market.

This market showcases the best of Wellington’s creative talent including homeware, fashion, jewellery, delicious food and live music. This is a free undercover event in the heart of Wellington's picturesque waterfront. Stay for lunch or grab an organic fair trade coffee while you wander.

You will find them under Frank Kitts Park, Jervois Quay every Saturday 10am to 4pm.

from

FREE ** $ 119 WiFi per night

Free Brekky Travelodge Hotel Wellington is just a five minute walk from the harbour, in the centre of Wellington’s CBD and shopping hub.

OFFER Mention promo code ‘ROADTRIP’ when booking for one free brekky.*

FREE FREE** Wi-Fi WiFi Call now 04 499 9911 or email wellington@travelodge.co.nz

Wellington

*Terms and conditions apply. Available on new bookings only.

o u r n e w z e a l a n d.co. ournewzealan d.c o. nz nz

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W E L L I NGTON

Thorndon - New Zealand’s oldest suburb

Learn New Zealand’s stories and visit architectural gems in Wellington and the city’s oldest suburb – Thorndon – is a great spot to start your heritage journey. A visit to the capital city would not be complete without a visit to the historic Thorndon area.

Visit one of New Zealand’s greatest heritage buildings - Old St Paul’s. The building is a fine example of 19th century gothic revival architecture adapted to colonial conditions and material. Constructed in 1866 entirely from native timbers, the glowing interior is enhanced by stunning stained glass windows. No longer a parish church but still consecrated, Old St Paul’s remains a place of spiritual significance to many. Join a guided tour and hear about the wonderful and sometimes quirky stories of the church, its site and its people on their journey from colony to independent nation. Old St Paul’s is just a few minutes stroll from the CBD.

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

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

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

Late check in is available upon request.

Call us between 7am and 10pm.

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

www.capitalgateway.co.nz 46

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W E L L I NGTON

shared bunk and double, twin and quad ensuite

Best things to do for free You'll be surprised at all the things you can see and do in Wellington that are absolutely, positively free.

Visit Te Papa, our National Museum Explore Te Papa, where innovative displays tell the stories of New Zealand. From Māori stories to interactive exhibitions, there's plenty to keep you entertained. Just don't forget to visit their Colossal Squid - it's the largest ever to be caught!

Enjoy the view from the top Take in the stunning panoramic views at Mount Victoria Lookout - one of the most popular places to get your city bearings and great photos.

Check out the street art Wellington’s walls and laneways are filled with great street art. Our picks are Xoë Hall’s tribute mural to David Bowie located on Ghuznee Street, Jam Hairdressing, BMD’s colourful political statement calling for action against shark finning, located across the road from Te Papa, and the colourful Opera House Lane.

all bedding provided, washing machines and driers available sky tv, internet and full kitchen facilities backpacker bbq and bar specials breakfast 7 days a week from only $3!

24 hour reception all credit cards welcome central city

Discover our movie-making magic Get a behind-the-scenes glimpse into some of the world's most spectacular movies at Weta Cave, a mini-museum and the shop front of Oscar-winning Weta Workshop. A must do for all of you who enjoy The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit.

Wander along the waterfront Arm yourself with a map or download a Welly Walks iPhone Application and take a stroll around the Wellington waterfront. Got the kids? Take a break at one of Wellington's waterfront playgrounds along the way.

Explore Wellington Museum Ranked in the Top 50 Museums in the World by The Times UK, Wellington Museum will take you back a thousand years and lead you to a vibrant, present day Wellington. The interactive and exciting exhibitions engage visitors of all ages.

t&c’s apply

Experience an incredible WWI exhibition Learn about New Zealand's involvement in WWI at Te Papa's ground-breaking Gallipoli: The scale of our war exhibition. With creative direction from Sir Richard Taylor and amazing craftsmanship by Weta Workshop, the exhibition combines movie-making with museum storytelling in a powerful tribute to New Zealand's past. o u r n e w z e a l a n d.c o. n z

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W E L L I NGTON

EVENTS THIS AUTUMN

Wellington's has a jam-packed calendar of stellar music, sports and family events. Here are a few of our top picks.

Cuba Street has been called ‘New Zealand’s coolest street’, and now Wellington’s centre of bohemian culture, hip fashion and shopping has its very own festival. CubaDupa (25-26 March) will transform the entire Cuba Quarter into a magical playground of light, sound & taste. Restaurants will spill into the streets to create a culinary cacophony. People will flow through the streets and laneways, exploring the myriad of spaces filled with activity, music, street food, dance, theatre, circus and visual installation.

Celebrate the end of summer with a classic street festival, Wellington style.

New Zealand Opera presents Carmen (1-10 June), Vital and dangerous, Carmen is a woman who will be free at any cost, setting the path to the opera’s gripping conclusion. This production by Lindy Hume – well known here for her brilliantly theatrical productions of Lucia di Lammermoor, Rigoletto and La cenerentola – is sexy and sensual with all the things you would expect from Bizet’s ravishing opera.

Enjoy a mid-winter culture hit when the Wellington Jazz Festival (7-11 June) heats up the capital with 100 gigs in five days. The Festival features major international headliners, top local musicians, food, wines, craft beers, and festivities spilling out onto the streets.

The Wairarapa Balloon Festival (13-17 April) is a magical event for the whole family, particularly the Trust House Night Glow on 14 April. Entertainment, music, night markets and aviation displays to entertain the whole family in the lead up to the main event where tethered balloons lighting up the night sky in a dazzling display set to music.

Bigger and brighter than ever in 2017, LUX Light Festival (12-21 May) will showcase a fantastical array of light sculptures that wind their way through the city. Five new precincts will feature a broad range of outstanding nationally and internationally recognised artists, designers and architects, alongside an array of activities and performance. Unique on the world stage will be the all new Te Aō Marama precinct featuring a programme of New Zealand’s leading contemporary Māori light artists and performers. The Playground and Circus precincts will delight the child in everyone, while a feast of street art and fine art will highlight the Urban Edge and Gallery precincts. As the gateway to winter, LUX invites audiences to bundle up and bask in the glow of Wellington.

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Wellington is playing host to an array of sporting events at the Westpac Stadium this Autumn. Get ready for a White Out! The All Whites are just a few shots away from glory and need you to get behind them when they take on Fiji (28 March) on their road to the FIFA World Cup in Russia. The Hurricanes play seven home games in the Super Rugby (4 March-15 July), the Wellington Phoenix take on Newcastle Jets (26 March) and Sydney FC (8 April) in the Hyundai A-League season.

Don't miss the opportunity to catch these world-class exhibitions in Wellington; City Gallery's major exhibition of one the world's most influential contemporary artists, Cindy Sherman (until 19 March), Te Papa and Weta Workshop's science exhibition like no other, Bug Lab (until 17 April), and Peter Jackson's three-part commemoration of WWI, The Great War Exhibition (until 31 May).

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ZEALANDIA BY ZEALANDIA

BY DAY DAY

Join a 2-hour expedition, led by an expert through ZEALANDIA guide award-winning Join a 2-hour expedition Wellington’s Starts 10:00am wildlife sanctuary, ledaround by an expert ZEALANDIA guide.

Adults: $55 per person - Families: $110 See thewww.visitzealandia.com/tours ticket desk to find out more and to book

ACCOMMODATION WHEN YOU MENTION THE ONBOARD MAGAZINE. VALID FOR DIRECT BOOKINGS ONLY

Hotel Waterloo & Backpackers has a different feel to that of other budget accommodation properties in Wellington and New Zealand.

Most of our rooms offer ensuite bathrooms and rooms with shared facilities share with a maximum of one other room.

YOU CAN’T MISS US The Hotel greets you as soon as you enter Wellington, whether you come by rail, by sea, or by road.

We have the right room type to accommodate everyone, from school groups, individuals, golden age travellers, backpackers, families and business travellers who come to Wellington for one of the many events.

Try our on-site café located in the old hotel’s ballroom or whip up your own creation in our fully equipped 24 hour operating guest kitchen.

1 Bunny Street,Wellington 0800 BAKPAK (0800 225 725)

hotelwaterloo.co.nz

r to ou Pop in Coffee ity Grav and grab kiosk lf a hot e yours nk. dri

Y O U R P E R F E C T T R AV E L C O M PA N I O N

QUEST ON THORNDON 61-63 THORNDON QUAY, WELLINGTON E: host@questonthorndon.co.nz T: 04 333 0007 or 0800 895 134

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W E L L I NGTON

LUX LIGHT FESTIVAL LUX Light Festival is a free public light festival that turns Wellingtonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s waterfront and laneways into a captivating celebration of light, art, technology and design.

Bigger and brighter than ever in 2017, LUX will showcase a fantastical array of light sculptures that wind their way through the city.

Five new precincts will feature a broad range of outstanding nationally and internationally recognised artists, designers and architects, alongside an array of activities and performance.

Unique on the world stage will be the all new Te Ao Marama precinct featuring a programme of New Zealandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s leading contemporary Maori light artists and performers.

The Playground and Circus precincts will delight the child in everyone, while a feast of street art and fine art will highlight the Urban Edge and Gallery precincts. As the gateway to winter, LUX invites audiences to bundle up and bask in the glow of Wellington.

12-21 May / 6pm -11pm nightly

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Mud Cycles Experience Wellingtons best adventure activity!

Experience the best of Wellington with a cruise on the city’s unique Harbour Ferry Service Wellington looks stunning from the harbour.

With the fresh sea breeze and friendly crew at your side who would miss soaking up this priceless experience from the comfort of one of two Dominion Post Ferries

Mountain biking & bike hire.

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

WELLINGTON - MATIU SOMES ISLAND - DAYS BAY

MOUNTAIN BIKING & BIKE HIRE KARORI 424 Karori Rd, Karori P: 04 476 4961 E: mudcycles@mudcycles.co.nz CITY Trek Global Backpackers 9 O'Reily Ave 0800 TO TREK (0800 86 87 35)

E: info@eastbywest.co.nz

P: 04 499 1282

www.eastbywest.co.nz

WELLINGTON CENTRAL

HALSWELL LODGE

Kenlea Cottage is a delightful modern 4 bedroom BnB. All rooms include en suites, tv & dvd players.

Situated in the heart of historic Petone. Less than 2 minutes walk to the beach or Jackson Street with it’s wonderful range of boutique shops, restaurants, cafes and bars. $135 to $150 per night, includes a buffet style continental breakfast, wifi & laundry facilities.

Old St Paul’s Breathtakingly Beautiful!

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

Old St Paul’s is one of New Zealand’s greatest heritage places, and one of the best examples of timber Gothic Revival architecture in the world. A ‘must-see’ experience on your visit to Wellington.

Kowhai Room

Pohutukawa Room

27 Buick Street, Petone P: 04 566 7553 or M: 021 580 099 e: shelley@kenlea.co.nz www.kenlea.co.nz

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

Gift shop

–

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

Exhibition

–

Guided tours

• • • •

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

www.halswell.co.nz o u r n e w z e a l a n d.c o. n z

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HUTT VALLEY

Lighting up the coast

PHOTO: Everyone's Adventure

On the journey through the entrance to Wellington Harbour you’ll see three lighthouses – including New Zealand's first permanent light house first lit in 1859. All three add up to a great day trip out along the rugged and spectacular south coast of the Lower Hutt and Wainuiomata.

As early as 1842 a temporary beacon was erected on Pencarrow Head and for added safety New Zealand's first light house was erected on New Year’s Day, 1 January 1859. New Zealand's only female lighthouse keeper, Mary Jane Bennett, maintained the lighthouse from its inaugural lighting until she moved back to England in 1865 – together with a family of five children!

Despite the beacon, the coast remained dangerous to shipping in the early years of the harbour and up to 21 wrecks have been recorded on the Pencarrow Coast. This was hampered by regular fog in the early years that meant the hilltop lighthouse was not visible and so a second lighthouse was built in 1906 – and is still used today. The hull of the SS Paiaka lies on the beach just past the lighthouse – that beached just months before this second light was built.

Cruise over from Wellington CBD on the easy East By West ferry to Days Bay. Book ahead with The Boat Shed and you can pick up a bike to cruise around the picturesque seaside villages and cafes before getting to the coastal trail. Or simply drive up to the Bike Shed Pencarrow at the road end and hop on a bike – they’ll give your own bike a tune up before you set off too!

A return ride to the Pencarrow lighthouses will take around 2 hours – or a 4 hour walk. While this is an easy trail, plenty of food, 52

water, warm clothes and sun protection are required as there are no facilities and little shelter on the way. Walk up to the trail to the top lighthouse and read the stories from life in the 1860’s.

Not far past the lighthouses are the nationally important wetland lakes Kohangapiripiri and Kohangatera which were once tidal inlets. Over time earthquakes have raised the foreshore and created a barrier to the sea. The lakes now support wetland vegetation and precious birdlife.

Baring Head lighthouse further around the coast was commissioned in 1935 and its beacon can be seen 18km out to sea as today’s main approach light to Wellington. It took over from the original Pencarrow light. Accessible from Wainuiomata Coast Road the regional park is a popular spot for hang-gliding, bouldering and diving. Can you spot it on the Interislander ferry crossing?

The three lighthouses are just one slice of the outdoor haven trails just 15 minutes up the road from Wellington City. Hop on a train, bus or ferry to explore gorgeous seaside villages, stunning coast, nature escapes, boutique shopping strips, local craft beer and your next fix from five local coffee roasters.

Lower Hutt is a special place that New Zealand’s first organised European settlers made home.

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h u t t valley

TRANQUILITY HOMESTAY BED AND BREAKFAST

PHOTO: Hutt City Council

Relax, unwind and enjoy a home away from away (We do all the work). Nested in approx one acre of native bush and gardens, Tranquility Homestay B&B is the ideal getaway with all the trimmings of an awesome holiday - AND we are PET FRIENDLY. Transport available to Pick Up or Drop off enquire availability of this. Use our peaceful B&B as your base to explore the Wairarapa, Kapiti, Hutt Valley and the rest of the Wellington region. Great walking tracks and we are on the cycle trail.

We are located in Upper Hutt, just off SH2, turn off to Staglands and only 1.3km down the Akatarawa Road on your right is Tranquility Homestay B&B awaiting your arrival.

Approximately 20 minutes from the Interislander Ferry.

136 Akatarawa Road, Birchville, Upper Hutt P: 0800 270787 or 04 5266948

www.tranquilityhomestay.co.nz

HAWK’S INN

MOTEL • UPPER HUTT, WELLINGTON

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

PHOTO: Hutt City Council

Learn about the unique cultural history and more of New Zealand’s firsts in Petone – with stories found at the Petone Settlers Museum.

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

Taste award-winning eateries across the city, like their very own slice of Italy at La Bella Italia, sample award-winning classic kiwi goodness at Sweet Vanilla Kitchen and enjoy harbour views and fine fare at Cobar in Days Bay. Indulge in more of the Wellington region’s top tastes with artisan food producers. Stop in for some of our local essentials for your lighthouse picnic: On Trays global food emporium – an Aladdin’s Cave of foodie treats; The Chocolate Story handmade chocolates; and Zany Zeus organic cheeses, ice cream and café fare.

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

FOR MORE INFORMATION visit HuttValleyNZ.com or the Hutt City i-SITE Visitor Centre for more great ways to escape this autumn.

www.hawksinnm ote l .co.n z

o u r n e w z e a l a n d.c o. n z

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

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wair ar apa

Cruising The Wairarapa By jo may

Take time this Aummer to explore the Wairarapa’s dramatic coastline, colonial townships and unique attractions.

The Wairarapa is one of the longest-settled regions of New Zealand, and the southern coastline has the remnants of once extensive garden plots. European settlers established the first New Zealand sheep station on the plains south of Martinborough, and the townships of Greytown and Masterton were the first planned inland towns in the country.

The Wairarapa is a region of big skies, wide valleys and characterful small towns. As you arrive via the Remutaka Pass the Wairarapa valley opens up before you, fringed by mountains to the west and rugged coast to the east. The place Maori called “Land of Glistening Waters” is made up of five towns: Martinborough, Featherston, Greytown, Carterton and Masterton.

Wairarapa is considered to be one of New Zealand’s top food and wine destinations and is at the heart of the Classic New Zealand Wine Trail. The region offers wine lovers the unique experience of buying directly from the person who makes them through the cellar door. Martinborough, which is internationally renowned for its Pinot Noir, features over 20 vineyards – many with cellar doors – while further up the valley in the wine growing areas of Gladstone, Opaki and Masterton around 10 wineries offer the same relaxed appeal 54

For those wanting a leisurely cruise around Martinborough’s wide, flat, country roads which are bordered by boutique vineyards and olive groves, then they can hire a vineyard cruiser bike and grab a wine map from the Martinborough i-SITE Visitor Information Centre.

Whilst in the region be sure to visit Greytown, often described as the “Arrowtown of the North Island” thanks to its towering trees that change colour in Autumn, beautifully restored Victorian wooden buildings that house a range of stylish and interesting specialty shops and terrific restaurants and cafes serving seasonal local produce and wine. Stretch the legs along the pretty Main Street and discover many boutique shops not found anywhere else.

A short drive north in the characterful township of Carterton is Paua World, where you can buy high quality jewellery, homewares and giftware made from the beautiful colourful paua shell.

There is something for everyone here and staff are fabulous and welcoming.

Make the most of your visit in the Wairarapa by staying at The Copthorne Hotel and Resort Solway Park set in 24 acres of landscaped parklands on the outskirts of Masterton. The hotel holds a Qualmark 4 Star Plus and Enviro-Gold rating and has

o u r n e w z e a l a n d.c o. n z

WA I R A R A PA

Open 7 days

Discover Wairarapa’s unique experience Quality gifts, NZ Greenstone & Jewellery Souvenirs direct from on site factory Factory tours during workdays Short information DVD

WAIRARAPA BALLOON FESTIVAL This is the must-see family fun event of the year – a festival for kids of all ages. A big pink cat named High Kitty all the way from the USA will be the star of this autumn’s spectacular Wairarapa Balloon Festival from 13th to 17th April 2017

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

Escape to the WAIRARAPA rooms from

$129

per night*

outstanding leisure and business facilities including restaurants and bars, a gym, swimming and spa pool, tennis and squash courts. Nearby are the popular attractions of Queen Elizabeth Park, the Pukaha Mount Bruce National Wildlife and Tui Brewery.

The Castlepoint Scenic Reserve, 45 minutes from Masterton, is home to unique native species. Visitors can enjoy the lighthouse board walk, Castle Rock track, soft white sand, lagoon and reef.

The southern coastline boasts Cape Palliser which has the largest colony of native fur seals easily viewed from the roadside. The nearby Putangirua Pinnacles Scenic Reserve with its unique geological rock formations is an unusual half-day walk. The Cape Palliser lighthouse, with its red and white stripes was recently voted one of 15 New Zealand sights that make the 100 top-10 lists of the world's must-sees by global travel guide publisher Lonely Planet.

W W W. S O LW A Y. C O . N Z | 0 8 0 0 S O LW A Y *Offer subject to availability, terms & conditions apply

For further information, visit www.wairarapanz.com o u r n e w z e a l a n d.c o. n z

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MARLBOROUGH

Marlborough

A burst of colours and flavours By jo may

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ournewzealan d.co. nz photo: MarlboroughNZ.com

M A R L B O R O U GH

Experience a region bursting with colour and life, from valleys of orange, red and yellow vines, to the deep green bush-clad hills and glass-like water of the Marlborough Sounds. The annual grape harvest is in full swing, and cellar doors are rich with the aroma of new wine.

Marlborough is New Zealand’s largest wine growing region, producing 75% of New Zealand’s wine and specialising in Sauvignon Blanc grapes. The long-ripening season also produces superb Pinot Noir, Methode Traditionelle, Chardonnay and aromatics.

With harvest in full swing and the vines showing off their vibrant orange and red leaves, autumn is the perfect time to visit your choice of more than 30 cellar doors. Stop by the Picton, Blenheim or Havelock i-SITE Visitor Information Centres and book yourself on a guided tour or pick up a copy of the Marlborough Wine Trail map and self-drive yourself around your favourite cellar doors.

Whether you are looking for boutique or big name, organic or sustainable, red, white or sparkling, Marlborough can deliver.

If biking and wine is more your style, then hire a bike and ride Marlborough’s Golden Mile through Rapaura and Renwick.

Enjoy the calm Marlborough weather and stunning autumnal scenery with 10 stops within 6km, showcasing world renowned Marlborough wines, and savour the taste of local cheeses, salmon, honey, fudge and olive oils, along with dining, art and cold drink stops along the way. Now we know it's your holiday, so if you don't want to plan and research which cellar doors to visit then we wont make you. Just book yourself on a guided cycle tour and let your knowledgeable local guide take you to a great mix of wineries, providing interesting and informative commentary along the way as you cycle beside the vines.

Brancott Estate Heritage Centre

Marlborough is home to one of New Zealand’s best road bike events, the Forrest Grape Ride, held on Saturday 4 March 2017. The main race takes you on a spectacular 101km journey past the vines in the Wairau Valley to Picton and along Queen Charlotte Drive before returning to Forrest Estate. For road bike newcomers, why not try out the 42km taster course. This is a popular event, so mark your calendars and start planning for 2018.

Harvest in Marlborough is not only about the wine, the regions high sunshine hours and brilliant climate is perfect for growing delicious produce. Marlborough’s crystal clear waterways are home to succulent crayfish, Greenshell™ Mussels, New Zealand

Dangerous Skies TION EXHIBI t

a Only

WW2 EXHIBITION OMAKA AVIATION HERITAGE CENTRE

New Exh i Now bition H Open all

14-16 April Easter Weekend

Open 7 days, 10am-5pm. 79 Aerodrome Rd, Blenheim, NZ (03) 579 1305 www.omaka.org.nz

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Tickets on sale now! www.classicfighters.co.nz 57

M A R L B O R O U GH

King Salmon and lots of tasty species of fish, so grab your fishing or diving gear and gather yourself a feast of fresh seafood. The fun doesn’t stop with seafood; you can forage for seasonal specialities from the farm gate or Sunday Farmers' Market, pick your own stone fruit, apples and berries or find boutique award winning olive oils at local groves. You could also just dine among the vines at one of the many award winery restaurants – go on, we won’t tell a soul, but we bet you won’t be able to help yourself!

The Mussell Pot, Havelock. This quirky little place has been serving up the famous NZ Green Shell Mussels for the last 20 years.

HAVELOCK MUSSEL & SEAFOOD FESTIVAL SATURDAY, 18 MARCH

For all mussel and seafood lovers, the Havelock Mussel and Seafood Festival on Saturday 18 March is a must do. The local treat, Greenshell™ Mussels, will be on offer every way imaginable as well as a range of other seafood, wine, beer and some great New Zealand entertainment.

Curious about how mussels and salmon are farmed? Take a truly unique experience and head out on a seafood cruise.

Your experienced skipper will show you how they're grown and explain to you why mussels and salmon grow so well in the Marlborough Sounds. Taste freshly steamed mussels and tasty salmon matched perfectly to a complimentary glass of Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc. A stunning wine and food match in a beautiful part of Marlborough.

For all mussel and seafood lovers, the Havelock Mussel and Seafood Festival on Saturday 18 March is a must do. The local treat, Greenshell™ Mussels, will be on offer every way imaginable as well as a range of other seafood, wine, beer and some great New Zealand entertainment.

With 1,500km of New Zealand’s coastline tucked away in the Marlborough Sounds, jump in a kayak, water taxi, yacht, launch or mail boat, and explore the winding waterways.

There are endless sheltered bays to explore, and the calm

Experience the beauty of the

Queen Charlotte Sounds in the best well kept secret of Marlborough, New Zealand

Celebrating 150 years of mail boat delivery service

Escape to the natural beauty and tranquillity of the Marlborough Sounds and enjoy the hospitality of Punga Cove Resort and Furneaux Lodge, on the route of the iconic Queen Charlotte Track.

• The famous ‘Magic Mail’ run • Ship Cove cruise

Both Resorts offer a range of accommodation options to suit all budgets and count with a fully licenced Restaurant offering refined dishes with Marlborough’s finest fresh produce, wild game and seafood, plus a little spice and flavour, and a wide selection of Marlborough’s best wines.

• Motuara Island bird sanctuary • Transport to Queen CharlotteTrack • One day or multi day walks • Mountain biking

Hike, mountain bike, swim with dolphins, dive sunken ships, or just kick back and relax with us.

Contact us for specials and packages.

• On demand water transport • Holiday home transfers

The Waterfront, Picton / P: 03 573 6175 / E: office@mailboat.co.nz

www.beachcombercruises.co.nz

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P: 03 579 8561 E: enquiries@pungacove.co.nz www.pungacove.co.nz

ournewzealan d.co. nz

P:03 579 8259 E: info@furneaux.co.nz www.furneaux.co.nz

M A R L B O R O U GH

Autumn weather makes boating brilliant in Autumn. While out on the water, there’s the chance for a quiet fish, or to simply pick up your book and read out on the water.

There’s nothing like exploring the Sounds close up so grab a kayak and paddle around the bays and beaches – make sure you keep your eyes open for pods of dolphins, diving gannets and occasionally even orca. If you want to go a bit further afield then opt for a guided kayak trip. Your guide will take you to the best spots, and will have plenty of stories about the area to keep you entertained.

For nature lovers, take a walk or bike along the 70km Queen Charlotte Track. Treat yourself to brilliant ridgeline views across both Sounds as you walk the track over 3 - 5 days, or break it down into walks of an hour or two.

The track, which is a New Zealand Cycle Trails Great Ride, is a must do for keen mountain bikers. Bring your bike on the ferry to enjoy the stunning ridgeline views coupled with exhilarating downhill slopes. For those who like to travel light, there’s only a few metres between bike rentals on the Picton foreshore and a boat that will take you on a scenic one-hour journey to historic Ship Cove, where the track begins.

What sets the Queen Charlotte Track apart from others is the fact that your pack can be carried for you by boat to your next night’s accommodation. Evenings can be spent in accommodation ranging from a tent in a DOC campsite through to a luxury resort, complete with hot tubs and fine dining.

Aviation buffs or Hobbit fans won’t want to miss the outstanding WW1 and WW2 exhibitions at Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre.

The exhibitions feature film director Sir Peter Jackson’s own collection of WW1 aircraft and artefacts. The collection is brought to life in theatrical sets created by the internationally acclaimed talent of WingNut Films and Weta Workshop.

Marlborough fits all travel styles, from wine and food lovers to outdoor enthusiasts, there is something here for everyone.

Marlborough is ready and waiting for you to visit this autumn.

To plan your brilliant holiday now, visit MarlboroughNZ.com Marlborough – it’s Brilliant Every Day

STAY A WHILE! RELAX AND ENJOY THE VIEW

8 A M T I L L L AT E 7 DAYS P E R W E E K

YOU’LL FIND US ON THE PICTON WATERFRONT

SERVICING INTERISLANDER PASSENGERS SINCE 2000

NOW WORLD FAMOUS IN LONELY PLANET!

www.cafecortado.co.nz P: 03 573 5630

o u r n e w z e a l a n d.c o. n z

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M A R L B O R O U GH

New Zealand's Multigem at Stunning Seaside Gems

What if the gold miners of the late 1800’s knew that some of the rocks they were tossing aside, were far more precious and rare, than the gold that many gave their lives to find?

The Goodletite form of Multigem is the only gemstone in the world that can be found in no other place but the West Coast of New Zealand's South Island. The Gem is composed of Ruby, Sapphire and Tourmaline crystals in Emerald green Fuchsite.

Exclusive to Seaside Gems in Picton. Individual one off pieces of stunning Multigem jewellery, are made by Seaside Gems’ team of designers and jewellers.

The company also stocks New Zealand’s finest hand blown glass and other beautifully hand crafted items.

For more information check out Seaside Gems facebook page, call us on 03 573 8151 or email us at seasidegems@xtra.co.nz

BLENHEIM THE MUSSEL CAPITAL OF THE WORLD in the heart of Havelock, Marlborough At Blenheim TOP 10 Holiday Park, we have a range of accommodation to suit families, couples, individuals or groups.

We are a great choice for an overnight stay or a relaxing holiday whatever your budget!

DEAL #1

DEAL #2

FREE NIGHT

SITE + MOUNTAIN BIKE

We will give you a night for FREE on our powered /tent site if you hire our electric bikes (E-bike) for a full day hire.

10% OFF when you check into our park with mountain bike hires.

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

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

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

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

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Terms and Conditions and more details available from our website below Book the deals directly with us via stay@blenheimtop10.co.nz or 0800 268 666

www.blenheimtop10.co.nz o u r n e w z e a l a n d.c o. n z

AU TH CK E LAARNTDS

M A R L B O R O U GH

thrilling aviation weekend Blenheim, Marlborough is the place to be this Easter Weekend 14-16 April, with the biggest event on the regional festival calendar taking place at the Omaka Airfield. In 2017 we’re ‘Racing Through Time’ above the vineyards of Marlborough. Featuring over 100 aircraft, including mighty warbirds, mock airfield attacks, ground theatre and pyrotechnics, it’s entertainment at full throttle!

Photo: Geoff Soper

Headlining is guest aircraft Australian based Steadfast, a Yak 3UR2000 and Reno Air Race Record Holder making its New Zealand debut at Omaka. Omaka will rumble as Steadfast reaches race speed around the hills of Marlborough. Fly low, go fast, turn left, Reno style! For lovers of smoke trails, Steadfast will also be sporting the only Sanders smoke generators in the Southern Hemisphere and is guaranteed to impress.

Another exciting addition to the Easter Show is the recently formed Royal New Zealand Air Force 'Black Falcons' formation aerobatics team. Featuring new routines and new equipment in the form of the Beechcraft T-6 Texan in their all-black paint job, makes for an impressive spectacle. Other superstars include; the world’s sole airworthy Avro Anson Mk.1 bomber, a stunning polished metal Ryan STM, a Waco ‘Taperwing’ a just completed Shilton monoplane, a Beech C’17B ‘Staggerwing’ and a tiny Comper Swift to name just a few.

NEW: Our Underwater Observatory, guided tours run by a Marine Biologist.

Discover the spirit of the Marlborough Sounds.

• Waterfront Café/restaurant • Accommodation with water views • Day trips from $49.00 plus Dinner Cruise options • Discover native birds, geckos and eels • Beach, hammocks, free kayaks

Freephone: 0800 562 462 E: enquiries@lochmaralodge.co.nz

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

www.lochmara.co.nz

Returning after a successful debut in 2015 is the Pioneer Race; including Penny Farthings, veteran cars and pre-WWI aeroplanes.

No Classic Fighters Airshow would be complete without the Fokker Triplane. In 2015 there were eight ‘Fokkers’, up in the sky, the first time since the end of WW1. This is something organisers hope to replicate in 2017 as part of their massive Great War action sequence. Guaranteed in this year’s WWII theatrical display is the launch and flight of a German V-1 flying bomb which promises to be even more spectacular than when it thrilled the crowds in 2015.

The fun kicks off first thing on Friday the 14th, when the practice flying takes place. Then in the evening it’s the Marlborough Lines Twilight Extreme Show of sunset flying and show-stopping fireworks. This has become a firm crowd favourite and is a great way to kick off the formal flying. Saturday 15 and Sunday 16 April are the main show days and along with some great flying includes award-winning Marlborough Wine and food, live music, trade stalls, a kids’ fun zone and a grand array of classic cars.

There’s something for the whole family!

Make sure you join in the fun by booking online at www. classicfighters.co.nz or in person at the Marlborough i-Sites.

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Brereton Blue Pearls The original home of Blue Pearls

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

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

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

To ensure quality a Brereton Pearl takes a minimum of three years before it can be harvested, meticulously graded then hand-set by the family team in their waterfront Picton workshop.

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

- Pearl farm on Arapawa Island.

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

We also do jewellery restoration and manufacturing, including wedding and engagement rings, on site.

Our website and waterfront Picton store are currently the only places in the world you can buy these stunning gems.

2 London Quay, Picton 7220 Ph/Fax: (03) 5737 351

www.pearls.kiwi

wine country

Marlborough wine trail

so much more than wine By jo may

Drive the White Road at Yealands Estate, in Marlborough’s Awatere Valley, and you’ll find chickens amid the grapevines, a valley of Monarch Butterflies, and an endlessly blue Pacific view that’s hard to look away from. o u r n e w z e a l a n d.c o. n z PHOTO: Richard Briggs Photography

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M A R L B O R O U GH W I N E

Sit down to dine at The Saint Clair Vineyard Kitchen in the Wairau Valley, and you’ll discover produce the world adores and chefs acclaim, grown in the soil and sea of Marlborough.

Whether in the Awatere Valley or the Wairau, in a view blessed vineyard or produce-rich restaurant, Marlborough’s wine trail is about far more than tasting wine.

Along the way, you will hear stories of industry pioneers, who led the transformation of Marlborough from quiet farming region to world-renowned wine country.

Stories of people like Ross and Barbara Lawson, who planted vines in the 1980s, when grapes were grown in a small pocket of the province.

Nearly 40 years on, you can relax at the Lawson’s Dry Hills cellar door, tasting award-winning wines made from fruit grown in the Wairau, Waihopai, Omaka and Awatere Valleys, with each sub region bringing something different to the table.

There are also stories of innovation to be found along the trail, including the growing number of organic and biodynamic grape growers in Marlborough, who are “future farming” by returning to old traditions.

A visit to the Rockferry cellar door highlights that work, with wild flowers growing beneath the vines, cattle grazing in paddocks amidst the vineyards and a rich biodiversity of plantings.

While you are there, make sure you lunch at the restaurant, and enjoy wonderful food and wine, seasoned with the stories of organic and biodynamic growers in Marlborough.

To get plenty into your day, join a driving wine tour, to visit the wineries you know and love, while also discovering boutique labels with beautiful wines that will surely blow your socks off.

Alternatively, choose to cycle between the vines to better understand some of the region’s best-known wine labels, and to perhaps meet the growers, viticulturists or winemakers that create them.

Come and experience our wines and warm hospitality! You can ‘Pick Your Own Platter’ from various local cheeses and meats while you enjoy a taste or a glass of our award-winning wines. We offer Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Riesling, Pinot Gris, Pinot Noir and our famous Gewurztraminer. Relax in our courtyard and soak up the view or take a seat in our newly refurbished tasting room.

Lawson’s Dry Hills on Alabama Road – the closest winery to Blenheim’s town centre.

Find out more about at www.lawsonsdryhills.co.nz P. 03 578 7674 or E. wine@lawsonsdryhills.co.nz Alternatively, just scan this code to go straight to our Facebook page!

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o u r n e w z e a l a n d.c o. n z

NORTH ISLAND

EVERY BIT EXTRAORDINARY

SEDDON

Marlborough

Picton Blenheim SEDDON

Kaikoura

Come and visit the Yealands Estate Winery Cellar Door to learn more about our sustainability initiatives and to taste our award-winning wines.

Even though parts of SH1 are closed, we are still open and just a short scenic drive south from Blenheim!

marlb o r o u g h w i n e

Wine Touring There are excellent guided cycle tours, with local experts giving insights into the soils, vines, wines and history of the region. Or rent a bike and head out independently, perhaps tackling Marlborough’s Golden Mile, which begins at the Vines Village on Rapaura Rd. The cycle route has 10 stops within 6km, so it is an easy day in the saddle, with plenty of amazing cellar doors and vineyard restaurants to fuel you along the way.

CAFE & CELLAR DOOR Open Daily 10:00am - 4:30pm LUNCH SERVED between 11:30am - 3:00pm Bookings recommended for dining

Wherever you choose to dine, you will find Marlborough’s wine and the food taste best at source, and never better than when perfectly matched. Try Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc with Marlborough King Salmon or Greenshell™ Mussels, for a combination worth travelling the globe for. Sauvignon made the region famous, but you will find incredible other wines along the way, including award winning Pinot Noir, Riesling, Chardonnay and Rosé.

With an abundance of varieties, sub-regions, stories, people and food to discovered, wherever and however you visit our wine country, you are bound to be surprised by Marlborough.

Marlborough Wine Facts • 140 wineries • 33 cellar doors • Marlborough produces 77% of New Zealand’s total wine production • Marlborough produces 92% of New Zealand’s Sauvignon Blanc A Sparkling ADDITION 80 Hammerichs Road, Blenheim P: 03 579 6431 E: cafe@rockferry.co.nz

rockferry.co.nz

Open wide and say

ahh!

Come and see the recently refurbished Saint Clair Vineyard Kitchen.

HOURS 9AM- 5 P M

Open 7 days a week Selmes Road Rapaura Marlborough

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Visit the 10 Methode Marlborough wineries to sample the region’s traditional method sparkling wines, 100% grown and produced in Marlborough.

Methode Marlborough is dedicated to promoting wines made only from Pinot noir, Chardonnay and Pinot Meunier. This trio of varieties is internationally recognised as a benchmark style by sparkling wine producers all around the world. www.methodemarborough.org MANA - the natural approach

Visit the cellar doors of MANA where they share a common belief in traditional, natural, artisanal winegrowing to create truly expressive and unique wines. All winegrowing involves human intervention – but how much is a choice. Natural winegrowing suggests “less is more” – the less the soil, grapes and wines are artificially manipulated, the more the wines can express where they come from.

Marlborough is a very special winegrowing region. They take a natural approach to allow regional, sub-regional and vineyard influences to come through in their wines, which are 100% grown, produced and bottled in Marlborough. www.manaorganicwines.co.nz

Bookings Recommended Freephone 0800 317 319 www.saintclair.co.nz

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marlb o r o u g h w i n e

Wine Tours by Bike

Highlight Wine Tours

What better way to see the beautiful Marlborough wine region than to leisurely cycle through the superb countryside on a stunning Marlborough day.

David and Colleen are owner operators of Highlight Wine Tours and take pride in providing friendly and informative daily winery tours around the Marlborough wine region. Operating in Blenheim, since 1993, they are able to offer a wealth of local knowledge and experience to ensure you enjoy the best the region has to offer.

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

With flat sealed roads, bike paths and short distances between the cellar doors, time out among the vineyards can be enjoyed by young and old alike, whether you are travelling by yourself, a couple or a group.

Steve and Jo are your friendly and experienced hosts who are there to help you plan your route so that you make the most of your precious time. You will have the freedom to choose the cellar doors that cater to your individual taste, and being self-guided, your day will be very much your own without the pressure of keeping up with others. www.winetoursbybike.co.nz

Their daily group tours provide a fun and relaxing day in one of their comfortable air conditioned 11 seater tour coaches. After welcoming you aboard and introducing you to like-minded wine enthusiasts, they create a relaxed and friendly atmosphere for you to enjoy sampling some of the best of Marlborough’s wines.

All their wine tours offer you the opportunity for input into the choice of Marlborough wineries to visit, and they do their best to tailor the day around their guests taste in wine. Your day finishes at the Makana Boutique Chocolate Factory, before returning you to your accommodation. www.highlightwinetours.co.nz

“ONE OF THE BEST ATTRACTIONS IN NEW ZEALAND” NO1 FOR CRUISING AROUND RENWICK’S BEAUTIFUL CELLAR DOORS.

Eco friendly, cost effective and without a doubt, possibly the most fun you will ever have on a bike!

Don’t risk drinking and driving or waste precious time biking the 12km (1hrs biking) on the busy State Highways out from Blenheim.

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

Self-guided tours so you have the flexibility to go where you want without feeling pressured to keep up with others

Full emergency backup service Bottle of spring water & helmet

SINGLE CRUISER $45.00 p/p CRUISER TANDEM $40.00 p/p CRUISER TRIKE $45.00 p/p Also Kids Seats, Trailers and Tow-alongs FREE OF CHARGE

SEE OUR WEBSITE FOR UP TO DATE TOUR START TIMES

A wonderful way to tour Marlborough’s renowned wine region in classic cars with Highlight Wine Tours.

This unique experience can see you cruising the vineyards in an Iconic VW Kombi or enjoying the open air in their classic 1967 Mustang convertible.

Highlight Wine Tours have been operating since 1993 providing friendly and relaxed tours with flexible itineraries.

Dave and Colleen have an extensive knowledge of the Marlborough wine region and you will have a memorable experience with them.

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

www.winetoursbybike.co.nz

T: 03 577 9046 0800 494 638 (Freephone) E: info@highlightwinetours.co.nz

o u r n e w z e a l a n d.c o. n z

www.highlightwinetours.co.nz

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Abel Tamsan National Park - Tamzin Goldsworthy

nelson/tasman

AU C K L A N D

The Road Less Travelled…

The closure of part of State Highway 1 following the Kaikoura Earthquake in November 2016 opens the tourist’s mind to exploring other parts of the top of the South Island.

And while the temperatures cool down a little with Autumn, the weather generally continues to be calm and sunny in this climate-blessed part of the country.

With the most direct driving route along the east coast closed for the foreseeable future between Ward and Cheviot (or a little south of Blenheim and a bit north of Christchurch, for the less geographically-knowledgeable), a series of touring maps have been developed to advise travellers on some of the other routes, with standout points highlighted along the way.

Routes include: • Christchurch to Nelson via the Lewis Pass • Christchurch to Motueka (and on to the Abel Tasman National Park and Golden Bay) via the Lewis Pass • Picton to Christchurch via St Arnaud and Murchison • Nelson to Picton • Nelson to the West Coast (and on to Christchurch via Arthur’s Pass or to Queenstown via the glaciers) • Top of the South Loop with minimal backtracking – Christchurch, Arthur’s Pass, Greymouth, Westport, Murchison, Nelson, (option of the beautiful Queen Charlotte Drive), Picton, Blenheim, St Arnaud, Murchison again, Lewis Pass, Christchurch • OR vice versa for any of the above.

only in Nelson

Stunning landscapes and an enviably temperate climate provide the inspiration to those who live, work, study, play and invest in the Nelson Tasman region: it’s no wonder this was one of New Zealand’s earliest European settlements, founded in 1842.

There are a number of unique aspects to this region. Nowhere else in the world, for example, will you find three very distinctive national parks in a relatively small area, offering sparking waters and golden sands, spectacular native forests, or lakes and mountain ranges, easily accessible year-round.

With an ideal growing climate (highest sunshine hours in the country for 2016), Nelson produces all of New Zealand’s commercial hops and has consequently become the country’s craft brewing capital with 11 craft breweries. Meanwhile the region’s 30-odd boutique wineries excel at producing Aromatics and Chardonnay. Other horticultural standouts include apples and berries, while the ocean’s produce has made Port Nelson the largest fishing port in Australasia. Aquaculture, forestry, lumber and wood products, aviation, engineering and ICT also feature.

The region’s broad economy based on the export of goods and an innovative commercial sector means the region has kept pace with changing market trends.

Available at www.nelsonnz.com o u r n e w z e a l a n d.c o. n z

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N E L S ON / TA S M A N

magical Monaco

An incomparable combination of exceptional accommodation and one of the region’s top rating activities on the doorstep draws visitors to the Grand Mercure Nelson Monaco. This unique resort-like property on the small finger of land called Monaco Peninsula is just five minutes from the airport and 10 minutes from Nelson’s CBD. With proximity to an expansive variety of activities from passive and relaxing to active and adventurous, with most options available year-round due to the temperate climate, a stand-out is the award-winning cycleway the Tasman’s Great Taste Trail, which passes the hotel’s entrance.

So much activity means good job opportunities, from seasonal working holidays to high-skilled technical and management roles adding value to some of New Zealand’s key export industries.

Ideas and creativity are also expressed via hundreds of artists and craftspeople producing thought-provoking and inspiring work.

With so many natural attributes, tourism is also a significant earner for the region, as the rest of the New Zealand – and the world - discovers it’s distinctive charms.

Beaches such as Tahunanui, Kaiteriteri and those throughout Golden Bay, a myriad of water-based activities and extensive cycling and walking trailways all add to the vibrant community, creating rewarding options for visitors and residents alike.

The hotel has a great cycle package along with bicycles for hire at reception, enabling guests to get out and explore this delightful trail. Hugely popular due to the alluring combination of easygrade, stunning views and a variety of artists’ studios, wineries and cafes along the way, personal guides are also available to ensure the best is enjoyed in the time available.

Grand Mercure Nelson Monaco is built in a style that invokes an engaging village feel for guests to immerse themselves in, the designers having taken care to create an authentic historic charm to both layout and features.

The resort feel is enhanced by its special location beside the estuary. Architectural features include recycled handmade brick work throughout, cobbled lanes, casement windows, stone flagged floors and low beamed ceilings using recycled timber salvaged from the original Nelson wharf built in 1842.

For a change in direction -

Get away to Nelson!

FREE Parking

Bed & Breakfast package.

Stay in a one bedroom studio, only $209 per night including breakfast for two, minimum two night stay applies.

FREE Wifi*

The Grand Mercure provides all the comforts you could wish for - The Monaco Kitchen, health & beauty spa, hairdresser, pool, gym, boutique jeweller and conference facilities.

194 Cable Bay Rd, Nelson Free Ph: 0800 157 300 Local Ph: 545 0304 www.happyvalleyadventures.co.nz 72

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

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hotel@monacoresort.co.nz

www.monacoresort.co.nz

N E L S ON / TA S M A N

Wakatu Lodge, Nelson, provides private rooms with shared kitchen and bathroom facilities. Situated close to the hospital, 5 minutes drive from town, twenty minute walk. Suited to budget conscious travellers; $55.00 single, $80.00 twin or double. Family room sleeps 5, $155. Enquiries welcome for larger groups.

Grand Mercure Nelson Monaco

Four options of accommodation (boutique hotel room, one-bedroom studio, onebedroom cottage with spa and two-bedroom cottage) are spaciously laid out in and around manicured cottage gardens, a large village green plus the ample parking area.

Behind the scenes, however, ultra-fast broadband, a solar-heated swimming pool, a recently refurbished gym and a team of skilled professionals ensure that this property offers guests the perfect combination of traditional elegance with the most up to date facilities and features for total comfort, whether on holiday or doing business.

125-127 Waimea Rd, Nelson M: 027 3634 299 P: 03 5458444

www.wakatulodge.co.nz

Visit: www.monacoresort.co.nz

BOUTIQUE HOTEL ACCOMMODATION & RESTAURANT IN GOLDEN BAY

PERFECTLY POSITIONED

Close to beaches and National Parks.

Beside Cycle Trail.

Walk to Vineyards, arts and crafts.

15 minutes to Nelson and airport.

Golden Bay only 1 hour drive.

is Mention th a ive ad and rece ur FREE 24 ho data unlimited internet voucher.

The home of genuine sourdough and levain based European style bread and hand crafted Pastries

Also a gourmet selection of lunch rolls and salads and other sweet treats, made daily.

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

Accessible, executive and spa bath options.

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

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

www.parksidemotel.co.nz

Summer Season Opening Hours Monday - Friday Saturday

8.00 AM - 4.00 PM 8.00 AM - 2.00 PM

54 Bridge Street, Nelson. Ph 546 8685 o u r n e w z e a l a n d.c o. n z

Continental breakfast and WIFI always free.

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

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

www.ratanuilodge.com

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EVENTS THIS AUTUMN Heritage Week 3-22 April Discover the unexpected! Over 30 free and low cost activities to enjoy in Nelson’s Heritage Week 2017. Discover how the past impacts on the future, and how Nelson’s community comes forward to share interesting stories and activities that highlight why Nelson is a very special city.

Nelson Fringe Festival 1-7 May Hold on to the seat of your pants because the Nelson Fringe Festival is back!

It's a week-long festival of theatre goodness with workshops during the day and performances by night.

Check out the website for more information: www.nelsonfringe.co.nz

HANDMADE IN NEW ZEALAND

New Zealand's Most Scenic Skydive

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

NELSON 52 Lansdowne Road, Appleby, Richmond (25 mins from Nelson) CENTRAL OTAGO 1767 Luggate-Cromwell Rd, on State Highway 6 between Cromwell and Wanaka (50 mins from Queenstown)

www.skydive.co.nz 74

www.hoglundartglass.com

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new options ABEL TASMAN NATIONAL PARK Kayaking - Walking - Boats – Lodges

New Barbecue and Seafood Cruise Option Departing Kaiteriteri every day, cruise into Tonga Island Marine Reserve and treat yourself to a succulent char-grilled steak (or vegetarian option) with all the trimmings, or a seafood platter of local specialities.

Up to 18 April: Depart Kaiteriteri 10:30, return 14:30 pm From April 19: Depart Kaiteriteri 09:20 am, return 16:10 pm

New Adele Island Birdsong & Seals Guided Sea Kayak More to see! Less paddling effort!

Take the Vista Cruise to Observation Cove and paddle around Adele Island bird sanctuary, home to some of New Zealand’s rarest birds, and a colony of cheeky seals. Then take the Vista Cruise further into the Park to explore Tonga Island Marine Reserve or the stunning Anchorage region with bush and beach walking.

For one of New Zealand’s Must Do activities, see our website for a full range of cruising, kayaking and walking options. Now operating two Vista Cruise vessels, travel with us on our fast, safe, comfortable cruising catamarans, featuring the best views from upper and lower decks, bathroom facilities and licensed café on board.

Quote Promo Code onboard for a 10% discount on all options with Wilsons Abel Tasman.

To capture the essence of Abel Tasman National Park after most visitors have left for the day, you can join one of our 3 or 5 day trips, staying overnight at our Beachfront Lodges within the Park boundaries.

Browse our website www.AbelTasman.co.nz for all the information you need, then book online or call our friendly reservations team for helpful advice.

0800 ABEL TAS (0800 223 582).

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KAIKOURA

Kaikoura WELCOMES YOU By jo may

Few places in the world can boast of such nature wonders as those offered by land and sea in Kaikoura.

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kaiko ura

A new state of the art museum experience showcasing Kaikoura’s diverse natural, cultural and social history.

OPEN DAILY 10AM – 4PM

Kaikoura is New Zealand's leading eco-tourism destination home to an amazing array of marine mammals and birdlife. Perhaps the most famous residents who can be seen yearround are sperm whales who share this part of the Pacific Ocean with dusky dolphins, fur seals and albatross. As well as these residents, migrating species such as the rare Hector's dolphins, humpback whales and orca are frequent visitors. You can experience this marine life from a boat, plane, helicopter or sea kayak.

Back on dry land, you will discover that Kaikoura offers a fantastic range of activities steeped in Māori culture as well as hiking, mountain biking, quad biking, cultural tours, art trails, lavender farms and a new museum. The Kaikoura Peninsula walk is a must see for independent and motorhome travellers. The stunning circular walk provides some of the best views of the ocean, the newly raised sea-beds, mountains and township.

Many travellers may not know on 14 November 2016 at 12.02am…the earth shook in the Kaikoura District. Kaikoura experienced significant devastation with no telecommunication (for 3 days), no access to fresh water, shattered infrastructure to the South Bay Marina, and no road access via SH1 travelling Picton-Kaikoura-Christchurch or Inland Route 70. Further concern was the worry that whale, dolphin, seal and birdlife populations may have disappeared or been adversely affected. Thankfully, the marine and birdlife is as abundant as ever for visitors to see and experience.

P. 03 319 7440 Kaikoura Museum Visit our facebook page for news and updates

This autumn visit...

FYFFE HOUSE

Three months on, the community and tourism industry is in good heart. The district shifted from a response to recovery phase quite quickly and before Christmas both SH1 South and Inland Route 70 roads were opened (some restrictions with weather and remedial work). The SH1 North road between Clarence (south of Blenheim) and Kaikoura is still under repair and is expected to be completed in Spring 2017. Dredging work on the South Bay Marina is progressing well and both Whale Watch Kaikoura and Dolphin & Albatross Encounter operators are back running daily trips around high tide times. It’s important for visitors to reserve space on these vessels ahead of time to avoid disappointment if you arrive on the day and all seats are booked. 91% of tourism activities are back operating 88% of retail and hospitality outlets are open and 83% of accommodation providers are ready to host visitors. It’s been terrific to see lots of visitors putting Kaikoura back on their South Island itineraries and all visitors are warmly welcomed.

Important note for travellers off Interislander ferries: SH1 from Clarence to Kaikoura IS NOT OPEN. You cannot drive from Picton-Blenheim-Kaikoura. Travellers wishing to visit Kaikoura by road must travel on SH1 from Christchurch-Kaikoura or the Inland Route 70 highway from Culverden to Kaikoura. New air services to Kaikoura with Wings Over Whales, Air Kaikoura and Sounds Air are available and this is one of the best ways to see the new uplifted sea-beds.

Fyffe House

Built on whale bones Fyffe House is our town's oldest surviving building and link to Kaikoura's whaling past. As the last tangible remains of the Waiopuka Whaling Station Fyffe House has seen Kaikoura grow from a whaling station to a farming and fishing community and port, then to today's whale watching centre.

The vista, little altered from the past looks across the sea from Avoca Point to the beautiful Seaward Kaikoura mountains. www.historic.org.nz

62 Avoca Street, Kaikoura On the way to the seal colony

For more information call: (03) 319 5835

Step into Fyffe House for stories of whales, whalers and whaling in Kaikoura.

FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT:

www.fyffehouse.co.nz 78

Kaikoura Museum

The new Kaikoura Museum opened on November 23rd 2016, only 9 days after the 7.8 magnitude earthquake that hit our region on November 14th This is a state of the art Museum experience which showcases Kaikoura's rich and diverse natural, cultural and social history. Displays include excellent exhibits of Māori taonga, colonial life, whaling, surfing and memorabilia from Kaikoura's past. We also offer research facilities for historians or those wanting to find out more about their family history. A unique Museum with some exceptional displays and very knowledge staff, the Kaikoura Museum is a must see during your time in in the district. They are open daily from 10am - 4pm.

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kaiko ura

Giants of the Sea A close relationship with the whales There has always been a deep connection between New Zealand's Tangata Whenua (people of the land) and the whales that grace the waters.

The story of Paikea

Perhaps the best-known story of the Māori connection with whales is that of the whale rider Paikea. Born Kahutia-te-rangi, he was rescued from a sinking waka (canoe) by a pod of humpback whales, taking the name Paikea (the Māori name for humpback whales) in recognition of their aid.

The tale was referenced in the globallycelebrated 2002 film Whale Rider.

This critically acclaimed film Whale Rider tells the story of the young girl Paikea Apirana's journey to become chief of her tribe. To fulfil her dream she must learn her people’s history and the link they share with the great humpback whales.

New Zealand’s Ultimate Year Round Marine Experience

Freephone 0800 655 121

www.whalewatch.co.nz o u r n e w z e a l a n d.c o. n z

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kaiko ura

Kaikoura Kayaks autumn marine life encounters Autumn is a great time to kayak with Kaikoura’s marine life as you are guaranteed to paddle with Fur Seals and have chance encounters with Dusky Dolphins and Blue Penguins. In Kaikoura, it’s no secret that the marine life outnumbers the humans so why not meet some of the locals of the ocean world.

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

Stay warm and dry in your enclosed stable double sea kayak with the Kokatat paddle jacket, spray skirt and wetsuit booty’s that they provide. Dry bags are also available for camera’s.

The Kayak Store is stocked with top of the range gear and equipment that includes spray decks, paddles, buoyancy vests, dry tops and much more.

Swimming with and watching Kaikoura’s Dusky Dolphins!

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

Kaikoura Kayak’s qualified local guides would love to introduce them to you around the Kaikoura Peninsula.

Kaikoura Kayak’s hassle free, half-day, eco friendly tours offer a safe, enjoyable and interactive experience with little effort and a whole lot of good fun - suitable for all ages and abilities, operating year round. Families most welcome.

Kaikoura’s Orginal Operator Est. 1998 For more information or to book, free phone 0800 452 456 or Book online www.kaikourakayaks.nz

Enter the world of the dusky dolphin and experience the grace and beauty of the most acrobatic and interactive of all dolphin species.

Kaikoura is regarded as the best place in the world to see seabirds. Get up close to albatross and many other ocean-going bird species found close to shore.

THESE WORLD-CLASS TOURS ARE IN HIGH DEMAND. BOOK WELL IN ADVANCE !

Sensational food, divine coffee at our beachfront Café. Quality jewellery, clothing, art and much more in our Gift Shop and Gallery!

96 Esplanade, Kaikoura, NZ. Phone (03) 319 6777 Freephone 0800 733 365

www.encounterkaikoura.co.nz 80

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hanmer springs

Where relaxation begins…

Surrounded by mountains and forests with quaint boutiques and giant redwood trees, Hanmer Springs is unlike other small towns in New Zealand – it instantly relaxes you, but don’t be fooled, there is plenty to do in this pretty and quiet alpine village Hanmer Springs has long been a favourite holiday destination for South Islanders and it’s not surprising the village is now becoming a must-do on the itineraries of other visitors too, attracting more than half a million people every year.

accommodation and eateries and activities for everyone – from adrenalin junkies to those wanting a little (or a lot of) indulgence. This is also an ideal place to experience the sensational colours that Autumn brings.

It’s ideally situated for those travelling between the top of the South Island and Christchurch, has a great range of

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H A N M E R S P R I NG S

Award winning - THE St James

The award winning The St James is the newest five star property in Hanmer Springs and offers guests luxury, comfort and style in the heart of the village.

Owners Paul and Rae Baigent are on-site and say the St James experience is about premium accommodation coupled with outstanding service and hospitality in a tranquil environment.

It’s an experience guests rave about. TripAdvisor reviewers describe The St James as “the perfect getaway” and “as good as it gets”.

Architecturally designed and elegantly furnished suites are coupled with unmatched service and attention to detail ensuring that every guest leaves relaxed, rejuvenated and ready to explore the many boutique shops, cafes and picturesque walks that surround the Village.

Guests can literally step out of their room into the all new Artisan Spa, get some retail therapy at one of the boutique fashion stores or simply enjoy a coffee and soak in the quiet ambience of New Zealand’s alpine spa village.

You can also enjoy the tranquillity of the many forest walks and relax in Hanmer’s famous thermal pools. And at the end of the day, enjoy the romance and tranquillity of watching the sun setting over the mountains from your balcony at The St James.

As the reviews say…this is “as good as it gets.”

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173 years of goodness

The jewel in the village’s crown is Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools and Spa. Its famous, mineral-rich, thermal waters have been attracting people for centuries. Every drop is heated naturally in underground reservoirs by heat from the earth’s core – a process that takes 173 years. That means the water that comes out of the pools’ bores today fell as rain in 1844.

The multi-million dollar complex offers plenty of places to sit and soak in this goodness – there are even adults-only AquaTherapy Pools that massage away aches and pains.

There’s nothing like sitting snug in the water’s warmth on a cool Autumn day.

But there’s another side to the complex too with a family-friendly area offering a place for everyone to let off some steam. It’s home to hydroslides, two large activity pools, a water playground (perfect for small children), and the South Island’s only aquaticthrill ride – the SuperBowl – which is popular with children and those who are a child at heart!

New Zealand’s alpine spa village

The Spa (alongside the pools) is a multi-award winning mecca of quality treatments and represents a huge part of what Hanmer Springs is about.

This is New Zealand’s alpine spa village and, despite having less than a thousand residents, it has more than a dozen operators offering everything from holistic treatments (like reiki and pascha therapy) to a full menu of spa services. The variety of massage available is enormous.

Together, the businesses deliver more than $2,000,000 worth of treatments every year – a sign that what is being offered is truly world class.

So much to do!

You won’t be bored in Hanmer Springs – there is so much to do.

Those wanting a rush should check out the bungy jumping, jetboating, quad biking and rafting trips. There’s even clay bird shooting!

The forests around the village have a huge network of walking and biking tracks – the best place for information on which is suited to you is the iSITE visitor centre (next to the pools) and there are plenty of places to hire bikes from. Don’t miss the Conical Hill walk – it’s a relatively steep climb but the panoramic views from the top make for fantastic photos.

Families will be delighted to see the farm park, a maze, mini-golf and the village cruiser bikes (which even have baby seats). o u r n e w z e a l a n d.c o. n z

Where relaxation begins visithanmersprings.co.nz 83

h a n mer s p ri n g s

Everything you need

There is also a huge range of accommodation – from luxury lodges to campgrounds and holiday homes so you will have no problem finding a place to stay.

For a village, Hanmer Springs has a surprising number of eateries - from high-end restaurants to casual dining and takeaways.

There’s a small supermarket in the town, along with a hardware store and garage so if you’re after some necessities, you’ll find them here.

The best place to

Relax together Nelson Kaikoura

Hanmer Springs

Ask a local what the best thing about Hanmer Springs is and you’ll probably find they’ll say ‘being here’. That’s because with its fresh alpine air, mountains, forests and incredible views just being in Hanmer Springs feels good. The village has an incredibly laid-back atmosphere that is hard to describe – it is the ultimate place to relax and unwind.

You can go at your own pace here. There’s no rush, unless you want one!

Christchurch

Queenstown

HC HST2073

Hard to leave

South Island

0800 4 HANMER hanmersprings.co.nz Open seven days

It is not a place for stress, it’s a place people come to escape.

One of the best things about Hanmer Springs is its people.

They’re warm, friendly and welcoming. So many came for a holiday, fell in love with the place and never left – perhaps you will too! Visit www.hanmersprings.co.nz

ENJOY THE RESORT LIFESTYLE IN HANMER SPRINGS

HHAN809 02/17

Experience the best of Hanmer Springs with the landmark Heritage Hotel, and just a short stroll from the famous Thermal Pools.

Call to book on 0800 738 732 or visit heritagehotels.co.nz/hanmersprings

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Heritage Hanmer Springs

The Heritage Hanmer Springs' historic Hanmer Lodge building has been lovingly restored to its former glory, and is surrounded by immaculately landscaped gardens. The hotel is located in the centre of town, just a stone's throw (well, a short drive) to all of the region’s natural wonders.

Heritage Hanmer Springs hotel accommodation has everything you need to enjoy the great indoors, and our staff are on hand to do whatever they can to help free you of your city state of mind. It’s the perfect place to enjoy a holiday far from the city bustle. o u r n e w z e a l a n d.c o. n z

NorTH CANTERBURY

Discover North Canterbury

Waipara Valley By jo may

Experience award-winning wineries in New Zealand’s fastest growing wine region – Waipara Valley.

Your gastronomic journey begins only 45 minutes north of Christchurch International Airport, with award-winning wines, delicious produce and world-class dining, set amid some spectacular scenery.

The geography, soils and climate together with the magic of wine makers combine to produce regional specialities of rich, spicy Pinot Noir and Riesling. There's also some fine Pinot Gris, Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc to be had.

Meet producers at a cellar door tasting and let them introduce you to a drop that will make your palate sing. Park up at a vineyard restaurant, and enjoy some famed Canterbury lamb, or local cheese dish, superbly matched with a Waipara drop.

The wine-growing area of Waipara boasts a host of beautiful vineyards such as Black Estate. This family owned and operated winery offers a tasting room and restaurant that boast remarkable views across the vineyard. If you are all about being close to the source when it comes to what you eat and drink, then Black Estate is the place for you. An ever changing seasonal menu compliments their wine selection and the view from the “barn” style cellar door and restaurant is simply breath-taking… you truly can’t get much closer to those delicious grapes! www.blackestate.co.nz

Join us for lunch at Black Estate Winery — North Canterbury

Open 7 days.

Cellar Door open from 10am.

Restaurant from 12 noon.

Awarded one hat at the Cuisine Good Food Awards 2016

Organic, award winning wines matched with organic and local produce.

614 Omihi Road (SH1) — 50 minutes north of Christchurch. +64 (0) 3 314 6085 bookings@blackestate.co.nz blackestate.co.nz

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CHRISTCHURCH photo: ChristchurchNZ.com

• Open 7 days, 10am to 4.30pm • Steam Train runs 1st Sunday of every month.

• Trams running weekends and holidays • Tearoom open Thurs to Sun 10am to 2.30pm.

• Edwardian Christchurch township display of original and replica buildings MENTION

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Check out the reviews on tripadvisor! ferrymeadpark

50 Ferrymead Park Drive, Christchurch www.ferrymead.org.nz

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perfect coffee?

GOURMET COFFEE - Discover Three Llamas

On your way towards Christchurch from Waipara Valley, why not indulge in a speciality coffee.

At Three Llamas Gourmet Coffee they are a little bit different. Their coffee is proudly Peruvian, coming from a small mountainous region in Northern Peru which is recognised for its exceptional and distinctive high quality coffee. Owners Richard and Cecilia purchase their coffee directly from a small group of coffee growers, supporting their growing activities through financial assistance and growing advice (Richard has a background in horticultural science). Their payback is access to some of the finest and tastiest coffees in Peru.

At the Roastery and Coffee House in Woodend, coffee is batched roasted weekly in a range of styles to suit all tastes and interests. You can come in an enjoy excellent espresso, grab a bite to eat and by your choice of freshly roasted specialty coffee beans from their wide selection on offer….you may even be able to watch and chat with them when they are roasting! The Three Llamas Coffee House and Roastery is situated on the Main North Road in Woodend, only 25km north of Christchurch. www.threellamascoffee.com

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65A Main North Road, Woodend (Opposite the BP station) w w w .th r e e l l a m a s c o f fe e . c om 86

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CHRISTCHURCH

CHRISTCHURCH

photo: ChristchurchNZ.com

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110

ARCADIA MOTEL Comfortable, spacious affordable accommodation

ARCADIA MOTEL OFFERS YOU: • Spacious and tranquil park setting with ample parking • Units with full kitchens

Experience Christchurch Christchurch has a rich Maori and European history with the area first being inhabited by the people of Ngai Tahu around a thousand years ago before Europeans landed in 1815. Strong links to both Ngai Tahu and England can be seen throughout the city.

• Units with baths and showers

• Family sized units • Disabled access unit • Free internet available • Pet friendly motel

Loads of Campervan parking

FREEPHONE 0800 272 2342 564 Ferry Rd, Woolston, ChCh E: info@arcadiamotel.co.nz www.arcadiamotel.co.nz

In 2010/2011 the city was hit by a series of seismic events which has resulted in the changing face of the city. The focus is now on rebuilding and although the traditional English Garden City roots remain there is a new air of creativity and innovation flowing through the city.

Things to do In and around Christchurch

• Parks, gardens and walks - Long referred to as "The Garden City" Christchurch's parks and gardens are ripe for exploration. Take a run or stroll around the vast green space of Hagley Park, or wander in the Christchurch Botanic Gardens – New Zealand's largest inner-city park.

• For some fresh seaside air and stunning views take a stroll down the Sumner Promenade or New Brighton Pier.

• Day Trips - For a relaxing day trip, consider a train journey through the majestic Southern Alps on the TranzAlpine. Take in the sights from the comfort of a newly refurbished carriage.

• See & Do - For something a little special head to The Tannery, a boutique shopping emporium home to 50 boutique shops, bars, eateries and a deluxe cinema. ReSTART Mall has become an icon of Christchurch. Visit cafes and retail shops housed in colourful shipping containers.

Christchurch is a vibrant, energic city that is ever-evolving. Discover amazing street art, innovative projects, a booming hospitality scene, and state-of-the-art architecture that is changing the way the city looks, feels and functions.

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. 13 sunny ground floor studio and 1 brm units . Plus standalone, 3 bedroom, fully equipped townhouse with dishwasher, full size fridge/ freezer, own laundry, 2 toilets (sleeps 8).

Set in large park like grounds . FREE wireless internet . LCD TVs with Sky Guest Select 50 + channels . Adjacent to Groynes reserve with walkways, picnic areas etc, Rosebank Café and Function Centre . Close to Peppers Clearwater Golf Resort, Orana Park, Willowbank & Antarctic Centre . Guest BBQ, children’s playground, trampoline, Petanque . Winner of 2015 Community Pride Garden Award

TARIFF FROM $135

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• The Transitional “Cardboard” Cathedral designed by Japanese architect Shigeru Ban opened in August 2013 and has become a symbol of innovation, hope and inspiration for the city. Its open daily and is a must see on any list.

. On north/south bypass. Airport 8min, city 15min

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• Tour the city – Explore your new surroundings by joining a guided bike tour, or do it on your own in style with a vintage bike. If you're not a fan of two wheels, hop on a Hassle-free double-decker bus for great views and informative commentary.

p a l ra t e s a

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170 Johns Road, Christchurch P: 03 323 8224 / Reservations: 0800 468 444 E: chardonnay@xtra.co.nz

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CHRISTCHURCH

A must do in Christchurch!

The closest you’ll get to Antarctica without mounting your own expedition!

Experience the wonder and magic of Antarctica without leaving Christchurch, at one of New Zealand’s best, award winning tourist attractions - the International Antarctic Centre.

• Experience real snow and ice then, brace yourself as wind chill plummets the temperature to -18C in an indoor Antarctic Storm • Encounter rescued Little Blue Penguins • Hear stories and legacies of the great Antarctic explorers • Spend time in the gallery, learn about climate, wildlife, glaciers, and all things Antarctic • Climb aboard for a ride in our amazing all terrain Antarctic vehicles – the Hagglund • Go on an Antarctic voyage of discovery in our 4D theatre – a multisensory experience not to be missed!

Hours of fun for all ages, this is the closest you’ll get to Antarctica without mounting your own expedition!

Open daily from 9am Free Penguin Express Shuttle from Christchurch city. Several departures daily from Canterbury Museum.

Book now at iceberg.co.nz

Hägglund rides Little Blue Penguins 4D movies Antarctic storm experience and much more...

Free transport from CBD

10% OFF

General Admission Valid until 31 Oct 2017 on adults & child’s passes only.

Mention this advert, limit two per booking.

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A K A R OA

AKAROA – New Zealand’s original French settlement By jo may

From your very first glimpse of the town from high on the Summit Road, you will be mesmerised by Akaroa and its surrounding bays. It is an absolute showcase of New Zealand’s history, its lovely people and its abundance.

Banks Peninsula is made up of two extinct volcanoes and the coves and bays offer variety and adventure. A picturesque 90 minute drive from Christchurch lies Akaroa, a charming French inspired village that’s well known as a romantic getaway or family break.

Rich in colonial history as well as recreational and sightseeing opportunities, Akaroa offers a full range of holiday activities for all. Visitors can enjoy harbour cruises to see Hector’s dolphins, fur seals, little blue penguins and bird life. Cafes open onto the streets and harbour promenades, and boutique art and craft shops and galleries show off superb local artworks.

Discover Eyris Blue Pearls® which are exclusive to the shores of New Zealand and originate from NZ abalone (also known as Paua or Haliotis Iris), which is only found in the cool clear waters along the coastline. The pearls are cultured in the Akaroa Harbour and the talented jewellers at the Blue Pearl Gallery, on the Main Wharf

in Akaroa, will create a beautiful piece of Blue Pearl jewellery right in front of you.

QUAINT Little River

The gateway to Banks Peninsula is the quaint town of Little River.

Little River is approximately 30 minutes drive from Akaroa and 45 minutes drive from Christchurch. It is on State Highway 75, which links Christchurch and Akaroa. Little River is a great place to visit for walks and mountain biking, and is a very popular stop over for it’s cafe and art gallery.

The town is the end (or the start) of the easy 50km Little River Cycle Trail. The Christchurch to Little River Rail Trail mostly follows the route of a 19th century railway line between Hornby and Little River, and passes through Prebbleton, Lincoln, Motukarara and Birdlings Flat.

Stay somewhere unique with an eco-friendly experience and explore the beautiful Banks Peninsula region.

SILOSTAY SERVICED APARTMENTS

Converted from humble grain silo to innovative, stylish, enviro friendly accommodation. Within your self-contained luxuriously comfortable silo the aim is to provide a welcoming & embracing experience to nourish mind, body & spirit.

A unique experience, the only accommodation of its kind in the world!

Cutting edge, bespoke design, the industrial theme of the downstairs kitchen surrenders to a sumptuous 1st floor bedroom & balcony, ascending a sculptural steel staircase.

Explore Banks Peninsula-secluded bays, stolen vistas, abundant wildlife, gourmet treats.

4+ Stars.

SH 75, Little River, Canterbury P: (03) 325 1977 E: info@silostay.kiwi.nz

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The art gallery at Little River is simply unique and a ‘must see’. The gallery is intriguing and hosts New Zealand art, painting, jewellery, sculpture and exquisite giftware.

For something uniquely different and perhaps the only accommodation of its kind in the world is Silostay in Little River. Converted from a humble grain silo this innovative, stylish and enviro friendly type of accommodation will prove to be out of this world.

Autumn must do’s:

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Enjoy fresh fish and chips at the world famous Akaroa Fish & Chip shop at the water’s edge

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Visit Barrys Bay Cheese factory to watch the process of making their delicious cheese

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Swim with New Zealand’s smallest dolphin, the Hector’s dolphin

Blue Pearl Gallery - Akaroa Eyris Pearls the original blue pearl

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

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MACKENZIE/AORAKI

Aoraki Mount Cook

Discover another world By jo may

Aoraki Mount Cook Mackenzie is situated in the centre of New Zealand's majestic South Island. The region is renowned for its incredibly clear starry nights, brilliant sunny days, remarkable turquoise blue lakes, valleys of emerald green and snowcapped mountains.

On the shores of Lake Tekapo you'll find the iconic Church of the Good Shepherd. Built as both a place of worship and memorial for Mackenzie's pioneering families, the alter window provides picture-postcard views over the lake to the mountains.

Nothing can describe the beauty that awaits you in the Mackenzie region and that beauty doesn't stop when the sun goes down.

Let the Milky Way unfold in front of your eyes as your astronomy guide takes you on a journey across the Universe.

From planets and stars to distant galaxies, Mount John is your gateway to the universe. Situated in an IDA gold rated international dark sky reserve, the views are simply out of this world.

Mt John Observatory

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

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

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

Astro-tourism in the Mackenzie Basin

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

There are now personalised day and night sky tours, educational and public outreach programmes.

Tekapo’s Earth and Sky Ltd, which works closely with the University of Canterbury and Mt John, runs several day and night tours at the observatory. Experienced guides take visitors through an introduction and exploration of the night sky via hands-on experience of telescopes, astro-photography and the summit-top cafe. www.earthandsky.co.nz Aoraki Mount Cook is truly unforgettable. Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park is part of UNESCO's Te Wāhipounamu World Heritage region. Australasia's highest mountain Aoraki / Mount Cook (3,724m) is nestled here in the splendid Southern Alps.

According to Ngāi Tahu mythology, Aoraki along with his brothers turned to stone on the back of his waka and formed the Southern Alps. Aoraki's waka formed the South Island.

At the foot of the mountain, lies Aoraki / Mount Cook Village - the launching pad for the plethora of ways to explore this magnificent alpine environment. There's some world-class hiking and climbing to be had here - the practice ground for Sir Edmund Hillary before he successfully scaled Mount Everest.

Aoraki Mount Cook is truly is truly unforgettable where you can star gaze by night and hike by day. You'll be captivated by the stunning scenery and exhilarated by the range of outdoor adventures this spectacular region offers.

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Spectacular Air Safaris To view the beauty and scale of the Aoraki Mount Cook there is nothing better than seeing it from the air. Air Safaris has been flying aircraft in and around the Mount Cook and Westland National Parks since 1970. Air Safaris has grown from a single aircraft operation and now flies 9 aircraft and is one of New Zealand’s largest scenic flight airlines.

Experience breathtaking alpine scenery on an exciting scenic flight with Air Safaris from their base at Lake Tekapo on the main highway between Christchurch and Queenstown – a must do South Island attraction. The Grand Traverse flight from Lake Tekapo is their most popular air tour and covers a diverse range of alpine scenery.

Air Safaris main base and airport facility (since 1975) is located alongside the main highway 4km west of the Lake Tekapo township. Their airport has plenty of free parking, toilets, WiFi, coffee and has a great area for non fliers to sit and enjoy the view. A sales and information office is situated centrally within the small township.

The Grand Traverse scenic flight operates year round (except Christmas day) from Lake Tekapo with departures every hour (weather permitting).

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

TOURS

”Window to the Universe”

EARTH AND SKY OBSERVATORIES HOME OF THE AORAKI-MACKENZIE INTERNATIONAL DARK SKY RESERVE CAFÉ AND DAY TOURS

Drive or hike to the summit of Mt John. Enjoy your coffee with spectacular views at the Astro Cafe. Imagine viewing day-time stars, then visiting NZ’s largest telescope!

Experience a flight of a lifetime with Air Safaris.

BOOKING IS ADVISED For more details call 03 680 6960 or email: info@earthandsky co.nz www.earthandsky.co.nz

www.airsafaris.co.nz

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MT JOHN TWILIGHT AND NIGHT TOURS

Join us for our famous Observatory Tour. We provide transport, equipment and guidance. Navigate your way around the Southern Sky using powerful lasers, while telescopes unlock familiar planets through to rich star clusters.

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west coast

Travelling the highway of natural wonders

BY CHRIS BIRT

When Mother Nature was toying with designs, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s clear the West Coast of the Southern Alps was dealt a pretty favourable hand.

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That is confirmed by any visit to this untamed natural wilderness region and its endless opportunities for fun, adventure and exploration - a place that offers so many attractions and activities that it’s often difficult to decide what to see, or to do, first.

For those grappling with such a thorny issue, Mother Nature herself has, in fact, come to the rescue, providing a flight plan of sorts, from top to bottom - or vice versa.

A diverse range of natural attractions - obviously located with the interests of travellers in mind - provide a starting point when it comes to planning a visit to what has to be one of the most spectacular wilderness areas of New Zealand.

Long and thin in geographical size, the West Coast occupies an area sandwiched between the wild Tasman Sea on one side and the jagged slopes and multitude of green forest cover adorning the Southern Alps on the other.

Long viewed as one of the most isolated regions of New Zealand - Aotearoa, the Land of the Long White Cloud as early Maori explorers are reputed to have called it - the West Coast is treasured by travellers for its natural formations. That so few people are found there, relative to the highly-visited areas of the country, is a distinct attraction in its own right.

Any time of the year is a great time to sample a region offering one of the most relaxed lifestyles and hosting one of the friendliest peoples on the planet. But autumn - often referred to as the velvet season - provides a stunning opportunity to see, and feel, it at its best.

Unbeknown to many, the West Coast has a benign climate, with more sunshine hours in a usual year than that of its northernmost counterparts, including Auckland. The settled weather provided by autumn makes this an ideal time to explore the many spectacular nooks and crannies of this natural wonderland.

Indeed it could be said that autumn fits the lifestyle of The Coast to a tee. The crowds now frequently encountered during the summer peak have by now headed out, traffic counts have fallen and accommodation is often available at some pretty favourable rates.

That does not mean, however, that The Coast has gone to sleep. It’s not in the nature of the Coasters, nor the physical environment in which they live, to hibernate quite yet. Winter is the right time for that, the locals insist.

For the traveller, entry to The Coast can be achieved from three directions - from the north through the Buller Gorge, from the south navigating the Haast Pass and from the east, through one of the mountain passes harnessed first by the original Maori explorers during their quest for supplies of prized pounamu (greenstone) and today, by those using more convenient forms of wheeled transport.

But no matter the point of entry, it’s easy to locate, and to experience, the treasures with which this region is endowed.

In the north is the secluded haven that is Karamea, often used as the entrance to the Kahurangi National Park. Snuggled alongside the banks of a river of that name, this small district caters for

2 Hr Quad Adventure Buggy Adventure Driver (16 yrs+) $160 Passenger (8 yrs+) $70

Offering scenic helicopter flight options to some of the most spectacular regions of New Zealands South Island. Let us take you on “the experience of a lifetime”

Passenger $70 SUITABLE FOR CHILDREN 3 YEARS AND OVER

PLEASE INQUIRE ABOUT OUR COMBOS We offer Helicopter, Plane and Skydive deals!

The only quad bike ride in New Zealand with outstanding glacial views and the thrill of riding through West Coast rainforest, riverbeds, and glorious mud.

2-seater fully automatic quad bikes.

No experience needed. Wet weather gear and helmets included.

Franz Josef, Fox and Tasman Glaciers. Mt Cook and Mt Tasman, Aspiring National Park, Milford Sound.

www.tekapohelicopters.co.nz www.scenic-flights.co.nz www.haastheli.co.nz

Main Road, State Highway 6, Franz Josef West Coast P: 0800 234 288

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“ Long and thin in geographical size, the West Coast occupies an area sandwiched between the wild Tasman Sea on one side and the jagged slopes and multitude of green forest cover adorning the Southern Alps on the other.”

cavers, walkers, birdwatchers, botanists, geologists, history buffs, mountainbikers, watersports enthusiasts, or anyone just wanting time out.

Just a short distance from Karamea is one of The Coast most significant and most popular natural features, contained within the Oparara Basin. Over 35 million years, it’s in this location that the Oparara River has sculpted stunning limestone caves, arches and channels, providing a rich environment for all kinds of creatures - insects, birds, rare short-tailed bats and the endangered whio (blue duck). And let’s not forget the giant Powelliphanta, the carnivorous land snails, and cave spiders that call this place home.

Creepy they may sound, but they provide a degree of fascination for those seeking an outof-this-world experience.

A pleasant drive along the coastal highway, designated Number 6 in official jargon, leads to another of the West Coast’s most special spots, the pancake rock formations at Punakaiki.

Sitting on the western extremity of the Paparoa National Park, this natural feature should rank highly on the bucket list of anyone travelling through the West Coast, such is the ability of the pounding waves and surging seas to take one’s breath away, in a literal as well as figurative sense.

The power of the Tasman Sea, surging unimpeded from the Australian coastline thousands of kilometres to the west, is best experienced at or near high tide. But like The Coast, any time is a good time to feel the force of nature in this location.

This natural seascape had its origins 30 million years ago, when minute fragments of marine creatures and plants landed on the seabed two kilometres below the surface, hence to be solidified in hard layers by the immense pressure of the water.

Over millennia, these limestone formations were brought to the surface by seismic activity, with acid rain, wind and waves sculpting the unusual shapes seen today. Accommodation at Punakaiki provides an opportunity to explore the many recreational pursuits along the picturesque coastline north and south of the pancake rocks and it’s a base from which to bounce off and explore the hinterland with the national park, one of New Zealand’s smallest, but most interesting. ournewzealan d.co. nz

w es t c oas t

Punakaiki is best known for its Pancake Rocks and Blowholes – both a spectacular must-see when visiting the West Coast

Lake Brunner

Another little gem offering a diverse range of recreational pursuits - active endeavours or activities of a less demanding nature are both available here - carries the name of a 19th century explorer who forged a reputation for pushing the human body to the limits of endurance.

Lake Brunner was named after an intrepid explorer named Thomas and today remains as a testament to the determination of the first European to traverse the rugged Buller gorge in a series of expeditions in the 1840s that wrote him and his exploits into the history books.

Some of New Zealand’s finest trout fishing is to be found at Lake Brunner, but it’s not the sole domain of those seeking to snare a big trophy fish. There are many beautiful areas along the lakefront for picnics or birdwatching and the walk along the Bain Bay track provides access to a historic logging site. The Moana Rail Precinct, the site of the old station master’s home, houses and café and is a great place to de-stress and reclaim some sanity.

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

KiwiRail’s internationally-acclaimed TranzAlpine scenic excursion stops at the little settlement of Moana, located at the northern end of Lake Brunner, allowing passengers time to disembark and take a cruise, view local potters at work or dine in tranquil surrounds. Spending a night or two in the equivalent of Britain’s famed Lakes District comes highly recommended. A week there is an even better option, with no shortage of interesting things to do and places to visit.

Within an easy drive of Lake Brunner is yet another of the West Coast’s natural gems and it’s one of those places that have, literally, to be seen to be believed.

Step back in time and discover a

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

The vivid turquoise waters of the Hokitika River gorge are so dazzling that it takes time for the senses to adjust, with the question often being asked - is this for real! Of course, that is what Mother Nature intended.

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

Other iconic natural features of this remote, rugged and stupendous small ribbon of green and blue exist on the southern extremities of the West Coast, but like travel in these parts, nothing should be rushed. These attractions, and the recreational opportunities and experiences they offer, constitute another story - to be told on another day.

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

Open 7 days 8.30am - 5.00pm.

Phone 03 762 6634 shantytown.co.nz

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

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

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

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

46 Cron Street, Franz Josef, West Coast /

Freecall 0800 873 346 /

Phone: +64 3 752 0220 /

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All EqUIPmENt PROvIDED A RANGE OF tRIPS AvAIlAblE HElI HIkE OPtIONS The magnificent Franz Josef Glacier is widely regarded as the gem of New Zealand’s West Coast Glaciers. Join us and share the experience of a lifetime. We give you the opportunity to explore the most spectacular glacier environment available to the general public, offering a range of glacier hiking tours to suit all levels of fitness and ability.

FREEPHONE 0800 GUIDES www.franzjosefglacier.com A true NZ experience from…

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imagine yourself here... and your cares a million miles away private pools massage & beauty treatments public pools

Cron Street Franz Josef Glacier glacierhotpools.co.nz 0800 044 044

LAKE WANAK A

Stunning Lake Wanaka By jo may

Located in the stunning alps of the South Island, New Zealand, visitors from around the world are drawn to the Wanaka region by its outstanding beauty.

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PHOTO: JAY FRENCH, MOUNT BURKE

lake wa n aka

The town’s stunning mountain and lakeside setting and proximity to Mt Aspiring National Park, makes it the ultimate base for outdoor activities.

Walking around Wanaka is one of the best ways to see the beauty of the area and Autumn is perfect time to get out and explore the many tracks and trails. Whether it's to a worldclass winery, or hiking to a mountain peak, there's literally a track for every fitness level, with photo opportunities around every corner.

RATED AS ONE OF THE BEST INDIAN RESTAURANTS IN THE SOUTH ISLAND BY TRIP ADVISOR FROM 2010-2015

Mt Aspiring National Park will tempt the serious hikers and climbers, and there are plenty of highly experienced guides to help you. But if a stroll is more your style, there’s a great selection of short tracks close to town, that offer something suitable for the whole family. Lakeside walks will take you to #thatwanakatree, Rippon Vineyard, and Bremner Bay. Slightly more challenging terrain includes Mount Iron, offering rewarding views over the entire Wanaka region and the nearby Outlet Track which follows the Clutha River. Close to Makarora, is the Blue Pools Track, a short stroll through beech forest, to the gorgeous turquoise pools.

Makaroa is the gateway to the Southern Lakes district and Mt Aspiring National Park. The Makarora Tourist Centre offers accommodation and adventure under Mt Shrimpton which borders on the Mt Aspiring World Heritage National Park.

You will find them 65 kms north of Wanaka.

For those wanting a challenge Deep Canyoning Wanaka offers a fantastic day out. They offer a range of trips for those with no experience, to those who have good fitness and previous knowledge. For the more adventurous why not try a tandem skydive with Skydive Wanaka and freefall above some of New Zealand’s most spectacular scenery.

It’s not just the outdoor enthusiasts who have plenty to do, and finding the perfect coffee, chai latte or freshly squeezed juice is not too difficult - the Wanaka cafe culture is thriving, with plenty of great coffee spots to indulge in. Stroll the streets and be inspired by galleries, stylish shops and be spoilt for choice with a great selection of cool cafes, excellent restaurants, craft breweries, award-winning wineries, and an artisan distillery. Try The Spice Room which is an exciting new Indian Restaurant and Lounge, with a fresh and healthy take on authentic Indian flavours.

Lake Wanaka offers warm southern hospitality and incredible views wherever you look. And between a place to simply lie down and close your eyes for the night or relax in total indulgence, there's the ideal base for your time here.

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SUNDAY STAR TIMES 9/10 WANAKA MIRROR WINNER OF SIGNATURE DISH WANAKA FEST Try our local venison, wild goat, fresh scallops and prawns and much more.

15 Shotover St, QUEENSTOWN P: 03442 5335

43 Helwick St, LAKE WANAKA P: 03 443 1133

DI NE I N OR TAKEAW AY

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Wanaka Heights Motel offers guests friendly, affordable, comfortable accommodation with amazing lake and mountain views. They are situated on a high rise overlooking Wanaka township, a 5-minute walk to the lake front, restaurants and bars.

The Wanaka Hotel also offers great value and only a minute’s walk to the Lake and town centre. Enjoy a relaxing drink on your deck while soaking up the lake and mountain views Autumn is renowned for being the most colourful of the seasons so it’s no surprise that a lot of spectacular events are held over this period. There’s the Festival of Colour and the Motatapu Bike Race - just to name a few.

Wanaka has so much to offer - the hardest thing is deciding what to do! www.lakewanaka.co.nz Autumn Events in Wanaka

• Motatapu Race – off-road multi-sport event 4th March • Wanaka A&P Show 10th - 11th March 2017 • Festival of Colour 2017 4th - 9th April 2017 • Wanaka Autumn Arts School 18th - 22nd April 2017 wanaka.co.nz

SPECTACULAR LAKE AND MOUNTAIN VIEWS ONLY 1 MINUTE WALK TO LAKE AND TOWN CENTRE GUEST KITCHEN, LAUNDRY & FREE WIFI ONSITE CAFE, BAR AND RESTAURANTS

71 Ardmore Street, Wanaka

P: 0800 473 288

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L A K E WA N A K A

Skydive Wanaka

Wanaka offers some of New Zealand’s most beautiful scenery and picturesque landscapes, and freefalling at 200kph is a great way to check it out for yourself.

So why not strap yourself to a beautiful stranger and leap from a perfectly good aircraft with Skydive Wanaka - New Zealand's, most spectacular, multi-award winning, and most fun high altitude tandem skydive!

The experience begins from the time you are picked up and before you know it, you’ll be meeting your instructor (your very own beautiful stranger!) and climbing into the plane for the incredible scenic flight to altitude.

Just sit back, relax, and enjoy the breath-taking 360-degree views of Wanaka and Mount Aspiring National Park - home to some of New Zealand’s highest mountains, including Mount Cook and Mount Aspiring, plus glaciers, crystal clear lakes and rivers. Once you’ve reached your chosen altitude of 12,000 or 15,000ft it’s time to leap...and experience the pure adrenalin rush of freefalling at 200kph above the stunning Central Otago landscape.

After 45 to 60 seconds of freefall, catch your breath and enjoy the smooth flight under canopy safely back down to the dropzone.

Skydive Wanaka pride itself on its world-class facilities, professional, fun, friendly staff and providing everyone with the experience of a lifetime–one you will remember forever.

Skydivewanaka.com

LF TO A STRAP YOURSE

BEAUTIFUGLER STRAN

Wanaka Heights offers guests friendly, affordable, comfortable accommodation with amazing lake and mountain views.

Situated on a high rise overlooking Wanaka township, our motel is a 5-minute walk to the lake front, restaurants, bars, cinema and retail shops.

0800 786 877 skydivewanaka.com

Our accommodation has stunning alpine views to Lake Wanaka and the mountains, each with their own balcony or patio. We have studio and family motel units each with kitchen facilities, ensuite bathrooms, wireless internet access & flat-screen SKY TVs. Continental breakfast available. Outdoor seating area with barbecue facilities plus off-street parking.

BOOK ONLINE TO RECEIVE $30 OFF CAMERA WORK!

FREE WIFI

Conditions apply*

PROMO CODE: sail&save

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*Cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer.

Reservations toll free 0800194452 E: info@wanakaheightsmotel.co.nz

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Autumn Gold in Queenstown By jo may

Queenstown delivers an unforgettable Autumn experience.

The outstanding golden and red hues dominate the hills around the region and contrast strikingly with the deep blue of our lakes and rivers— giving you the chance to truly immerse yourself in the wonder of the season.

Of the four distinct seasons, Autumn’s arrival in a blaze of reds and golds is the most dramatic, attracting visitors, artists and photographers from around the world.

The fantastic line-up of regional events and great holiday deals make Queenstown an ideal place to visit in Autumn and there are experiences to suit any holiday, whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, luxury or a family break.

There is also a seemingly endless supply of world-renowned adventure activities ranging from skydiving, bungy jumping, jet boating and paragliding to aerobatic flights, horse trekking, rafting and 4WD tours.

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For a more relaxed pace, tee up a round of golf, take a boat cruise or scenic flight, sample award-winning Central Otago wines and superb local cuisine, enjoy a treatment at a luxury spa or explore the town’s many shops, galleries, bars, cafes and restaurants.

Autumn temperatures are cooler at sunrise and sunset but the warm sunny days are ideal for exploring the region and enjoying the activities and attractions that make Queenstown famous.

Discover the backcountry on foot or bike or make the most of the huge network of trails around the region.

The Queenstown Trail is a New Zealand Great Ride and the 110km network of trails in the Wakatipu basin wind between rivers, lakes and mountain ranges giving easy access to some iconic

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All images courtesy of Queenstownnz.nz

Queenstown’s most memorable dining experience A pioneering landmark from the 1860s, Gantleys is a charming stone building set on two acres of landscaped gardens with stunning mountain scenery.

Gantleys offers contemporary New Zealand cuisine using fresh, regional produce and has New Zealand’s most Awarded Wine list. Gantleys is certainly worth a visit. Just 10 minutes from Queenstown.

Complimentary transport from central Queenstown by arrangement.

“ Dining at Gantleys was one of the highlights of my trip to Queenstown. Along with the wonderful service, stunning gardens and the gorgeous wines (and there were certainly plenty to choose from), the food was second to none. Piping hot, cooked to perfection and cutting through my steak, it may as well have been butter. If you’re heading to the region, I encourage you to pop into this little gem of Queenstown – you won’t be disappointed and you’ll most likely find it’ll be your highlight too.”

Bettina Maniatis, Editor, Onboard Magazine

172 Arthurs Point Road, Arthurs Point, Queenstown

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03 442 8999

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www.gantleys.co.nz

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Queenstown vistas and experiences. Popular spots such as Queenstown Bay, Frankton, Lake Hayes, Arrowtown or Gibbston’s ‘valley of vines’ can all be accessed via the Queenstown Trail— and many of these spots offer especially wonderful displays of autumn colour.

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

Gibbston Wine and Food Festival in March - a harvest celebration showcasing the region’s finest wines, wine celebrities, local produce and talented chefs. For further taste testing, enjoy a leisurely lunch at one of the region’s many fine winery restaurants or spend the afternoon exploring vineyards and cellar doors on a wine tour.

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

Queenstown also offers some of the country’s best golfing experiences. The world-class, diverse golf courses are set amongst dramatic lake and alpine scenery and are a must-do for keen golfers. Spend a leisurely morning or afternoon taking in a round – there are six options, all within 25 minutes of the town centre, ranging from immaculately groomed 18 hole championship courses to a family friendly 9-hole course and driving range.

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

Queenstown is fast becoming renowned as one of NZ’s leading wine and food destinations and early autumn is a great time to come and experience the buzz as tonnes of grapes are harvested from Central Otago’s 200 vineyards. If you’re a food and wine lover you can sample the ‘best of the best’ at the Skycity

Take a scenic cruise of Lake Wakatipu from Queenstown on board the iconic steamship TSS Earnslaw. There is plenty of time to explore the decks and bridge, view the engine room, join a sing-along with the on board pianist or sit back and relax while enjoying food and a drink from the Promenade Café. The TSS

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Q U E E N S TOWN

EMBRACE THE FEAR Earnslaw makes several daily trips across the lake to Walter Peak High Country Farm.

A trip to Queenstown isn’t complete without a visit to Arrowtown, the historic gold mining village on the banks of the Arrow River. Arrowtown is celebrated for its famous autumn hues when the trees on the surrounding hills turn red and gold.

The Akarua Arrowtown Autumn Festival (21-25 April) provides the perfect opportunity to enjoy the vibrant colours and relaxed atmosphere. The five-day festival celebrates the old goldmining town’s heritage with gold panning, a market day and street parade, guided historical walks, a vintage car rally and live music and theatre.

Make time to explore the quaint tree-lined streets, old miners’ cottages, restored Chinese Village and Lakes District Museum as well as the award-winning restaurants and cafes, gourmet food and wine purveyors and diverse retail stores and galleries.

Autumn is also a good time to enjoy some of the region’s walking trails.

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

Show your ferry/train ticket for a free $15 gift with your Tandem Skydive

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

TANDEM SKYDIVE FROM 15,000FT OVER QUEENSTOWN www.nzoneskydive.co.nz

queenstownnz.nz

0800 DROPZONE (376 796)

Finz is the place to enjoy superb seafood and NZ’s finest meat produce in a warm and casual bistro style atmosphere, with excellent service and spectacular views. Enjoy casual relaxed waterfront dining whilst treating yourself to a seafood platter, a hearty steak or enjoy classic Kiwi fish and chips.

For reservations telephone +64 3 442 7405 or email: eat@finzdownunder.co.nz Open 7 days from 5 pm until late

Ground Floor, Steamer Wharf Beach Street, Queenstown P: +64 3 442 7405 E: eat@finzdownunder.co.nz

www.finzdownunder.co.nz

COALFIRE BARBECUE BAR offers cooking inspired by pit masters and kitchens from around the globe. Dishes that carry that distinctive smoky flavour that comes from long slow hours over hot coals. Add in a damn fine selection of craft beer, cocktails and delicious tipples to boot and you have “Flavour by Fire”. Serving food and beverages from 8am till late.

17 Ballarat St, The Mall, Queenstown E: eat@coalfire.co.nz

P: 03 442 8439 o u r n e w z e a l a n d.c o. n z

@coalfireqt

Enjoy the sight and sounds of New Zealand’s wildlife and bush in our 5-acre breeding sanctuary. See real kiwi and over twenty other native birds and reptile, including the tuatara. Experience conservation in action. Entry includes an all-day pass, access to kiwi feedings, New Zealand’s original and best Free-flight Bird Show and an audio guide to self-guide the Park. Spend time browsing for that perfect gift in our shop or relax with a coffee or light meal in our scenic Kiwi Café.

Price: Adult NZ$48, Child NZ$23, Family NZ$110.

Opening Hours: From 9am every day except Christmas Day. Duration: Allow up to 2 hours.

Brecon Street, Below the Gondola, Queenstown P: 03 442 8059 E: wildlife@kiwibird.co.nz

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Q U E E N S TOWN

reviewed By Michelle Agnew I was in Queenstown for a lovely weekend away with my husband and we chose to dine at Rata and needless to say it was the highlight of our mini break away.

Where to start, it was all divine!

Of course, why would I be surprised, as Josh Emmett owner and chef of Rata, is described as New Zealand’s only Michelin-starred chef.

First of all, the wine list proudly showcases wines from the Otago region and greater New Zealand as well as afar.

Our dining experience started with the goat’s cheese profiteroles from the Bites menu.

The combination of cheese with the Rata blossom honey and rosemary just melted in our mouth.

From the starters menu we chose the cured Stewart Island salmon served with spring peas, wasabi crème fraiche and pickled ko.

Onto the main which was the Spiced Merino Lamb Should feast for two and a feast it was! Served with the lamb was herbed bulgur wheat, roasted red onion and a harissa jus. This dish was certainly made to share!

BOOK 0800 832226 TODAY nzwalks.com

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Now to my favourite course – dessert! Both the Pink Raspberry Macarons and the Salted Caramels were amazing and out of this world!

Rata is centrally located yet hidden away and you will be blown away by the beautiful décor and the exceptional 5 star service.

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Connect with real New Zealand

Rata (named for the crimson blossomed forest tree, which is a relative of the Pohutukawa).

From the outset, Josh Emett, who is a Michelin starred chef and worked for many years alongside Gordon Ramsay, and business partner and accomplished restaurateur Fleur Caulton wanted to offer a restaurant that reflected the Kiwi lifestyle in a sophisticated and professional way, and they have succeeded.

An awe inspiring journey into the Te Wai Pounamu World Heritage Area.

BOOK NOW! 0800 327 853 www.dartriver.co.nz

Rataâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s menu highlights the best that Southern New Zealand has to offer and changes regularly to reflect the seasonality of the region.

Bookings essential A: Te Nuku, 43 Ballarat St, Queenstown Tel: + 64 3 4429393 www.ratadining.co.nz

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AU C K L A N D

YOUR ONBOARD MAPS KAITAKI DECK 2 1)

2)

Play area – A play area for kids aged 3-10. Light snacks are available to purchase and parents can enjoy an espresso coffee while supervising their children.

Movie theatres – Relax and enjoy a movie in one of our two movie theatres on Deck 2. Tickets can be purchased from Reception or the shop.

DECK 7

DECK 7

Shop: An on-board shop to purchase magazines, confectionery and souvenirs. Buy your movie and Interislander Plus tickets here. Eftpos facilities are available.

4) Family lounge: A great place for children and parents to relax with a TV on-site.

5) Hector’s Café – A place to relax in a contemporary café style setting.

There is cabinet food and a full range of beverages available.

6) Interislander Plus lounge – An exclusive lounge for 18+. This lounge offers complimentary drinks (beer, wine, tea and coffee), a meal, and newspapers and magazines. Tickets can be purchased from the Reception.

7) Nurseries – Available for families traveling with infants. There are four cabins with cots and a separate toilet provided. A baby changing facility is located in the foyer on Deck 7.

8) Recliner seating – A great place for you to sit back and relax.

9) Cabins – Passenger cabins with an en-suite are available to hire. Please enquire at the shop or Reception.

10) Reception - A place to purchase movie tickets, book cabins or for all general enquiries.

3)

8 10

7 9

4 5

3

8

6 8

DECK 8

DECK 8

Ocean View Eatery – Café style seating with a selection of light snacks and hot meals. Beverages include filter coffee, tea, juice, soft drinks, beer and wine.

12) Local Heroes Café & Bar – A relaxed atmosphere, serving espresso coffee, local wines, beers and spirits. Selections of bar snacks are available at peak times. The bar features wide screen TV’s and there are often local bands performing.

13) Lookout Atrium – The ‘lookout’ offers café style seating with great views.

14) Rembrandt’s lounge – Rembrandt’s lounge offers space for group bookings. If you are a large group this is to be requested in advance.

15) No.1 Truck Stop – A lounge reserved for truck drivers. ID’s are required for this area.

11)

14 12

13

15 11

DECK 10 16) Main outside viewing deck. Smoking is permitted on Deck 7 portside (or the left-hand side of the vessel).

ARATERE DECK 4 1)

2)

3)

4)

5) 6)

Bar – Situated at the bow of the ship this lounge offers great views and a social atmosphere. Includes a bar to satisfy your thirst with local wines and beers and spirits.

A selection of bar snacks is available.

Food Court – A great place to enjoy a selection of snacks, sandwiches, hot and cold meals and a variety of beverages.

Movie Theatre – Relax and enjoy a movie in our movie theatre. Tickets can be purchased from Hector’s Store and Cafe.

Hector's Store & Cafe - Order coffee from our baristas then browse a great range of magazines, confectionery and souvenirs. Hector’s serves quality, café-style cabinet food and a range of beverages.

Play Area – Moby’s play area provides TV cartoons for children, a nursery and family seating.

Passenger lounge – A large space to find a seat and relax throughout the journey

DECK 5 7)

8)

9)

Interislander Plus lounge - An exclusive lounge for 18+. This lounge offers complimentary drinks (beer, wine, tea and coffee), a meal, and newspapers and magazines. Tickets can be purchased from Hector's Store & Cafe.

Observation decks – A great place to enjoy the magnificent views of Wellington Harbour, Cook Strait and The Marlborough Sounds. Seating is also provided on the deck.

Pencarrow Lounge – Relax in the comfort of this lounge.

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Driver’s Driver’s Mess Room Accommodation

DECK 4

Access to Vehicle Deck MES

5

6

4

3

MES

Passenger Entry/Exit

* Muster Stations

DECK 5 8

8

7

9

Driver’s Driver’s Mess Room Accommodation

8

Access to Vehicle Deck

o u r n e w z e a l a n d.c o. n z MES

2

1

8

KAIARAHI DECK 7

DECK 7 Embarking & Disembarking Wellington

1)

2) =

2

1

Embarking & Disembarking Picton

=

3) 3

Ocean View Eatery – Café style seating with a selection of light snacks and hot meals. Beverages include filter coffee, tea, juice, soft drinks, beer and wine.

Shop – An onboard shop to purchase magazines, confectionery and souvenirs. Eftpos facilities are available.

Local Heroes Bar/Café - A relaxed atmosphere, serving espresso coffee, local wines, beers and spirits. Selections of bar snacks are available at peak times. The bar features wide screen TV’s.

DECK 8

DECK 8

4)

5)

4 9 9

=

7 9

6)

5 6

=

=

7) 8)

8

9)

Interislander Plus lounge - An exclusive lounge for 18+. This lounge offers complimentary drinks (beer, wine, tea and coffee), a meal, and newspapers and magazines. Tickets can be purchased from the Shop.

Nurseries – Available for families traveling with infants. Cots and changing facilities provided.

The Lookout Lounge –Enjoy the scenery in the lookout lounge. This area offers recliner seating with great views to relax and enjoy the scenery. Kids play areas and nurseries are also close by for families looking to unwind throughout the journey.

Play area – A great area for kids aged 3-10 to play.

No.1 Truck Stop – A lounge reserved for truck drivers. ID’s are required for this area.

Passenger cabins –Passenger cabins with an en-suite are available to hire.

Our onboard cabins are particularly suited to those who need to catch up on sleep between islands. Please enquire at the Shop.

SCENIC JOURNEYS TRAIN CARRIAGE Scenic’s fleet of AK carriages were designed and constructed in New Zealand. They were purpose-built to maximise the views on offer and provide a comfortable and relaxing environment.

Main carriages • 39 seats configured around shared tables • 24 airline-style seats with fold-down trays • Above seat coat rack with integrated reading lights • Large panoramic side and sky-view roof windows • Toilet

Accessibility • 2 dedicated wheelchair spaces in dining area of café carriage • Accessible toilet with baby change table in café carriage • Inter-carriage vestibules with automatic sliding doors • Hearing Loop throughout seating carriages and dining area Dining and viewing carriages • Licensed café carriage with a wide range of food and drinks • Dining area in café carriage • Outdoor viewing carriage

Entertainment • GPS-activated commentary system at every seat. (English or Mandarin) • GPS-activated route map on central overhead screens

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ONBOARD SOUVENIRS remind you of your experience aboard our ship and/or trains for years to come.

Items listed are in NZD incl GST and are only available at the shops on Interislander and the cafe’s on all KiwiRail Scenic trains

KiwiRail Scenic Journeys

Playing cards

Magnets and badges

$5.00

$9.00

TranzAlpine and Northern Explorer keyring

$10.00

4GB USB with images and video loaded

$15.00

Kids’ activity pack

Postcards

(Suitable for ages 3-14 years)

$1.50

$10.00

$30.00

Reusable cups

$12.90 Travel mug (Available TranzAlpine / Christchurch Station only)

Tote bag

$35.00

$16.00

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Passport Stamp t-shirt

(Men’s and women’s styles available)

$35.00

Interislander

Ship keyring

$7.50

Blue self-wind

$10.00

Magnet

Large memo clip (with magnet on reverse)

$5.70

$4.50

Pin Sticker

$2.50

Silver teaspoon

$6.50

Notebook and pen Water cube

$5.00

$4.00

Keyring

$6.90

8GB USB card

Playing cards

$14.90

$7.50

$7.90

Badge

Patch

$7.00 Magnetic jigsaw puzzle

$7.70

$9.00

Postcards

$1.50

Interislander cap Ship cap

$25.00

$30.00

Tote bag

$35.00

Ship t-shirt

Passport Stamp t-shirt

$35.00

(Men’s and women’s styles available)

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$35.00

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ENJOY SOME DOWNTIME

Across

Down

1 Dislodge (jockey) 5. Prolonged unconsciousness 7. Critically examines 8. Flying around (planet) 9. Construes 12. Shellfish 15. Violinist 19. Bite of food 21. Pursed (mouth) 22. Weekly pay 23. Starchy tubers 24. Surround

1. Reveal 2. Supermarket lane 3. Entrances 4. Personify 5. Prettiest 6. Cherubs 10. Absconded 11. Throw (dice) 12. The O of SOS 13. Grain store 14. Large deer 15. Droopy 16. Male ducks 17. Appear 18. Arm covering 19. Field hospital worker 20. Oarsman

SuDOKU

solution

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