Issue 33 Spring

I SSue 3 3 / SPRING 16

Our New Zealand onboard travel magazine

Discover the Pacific Coast

Yours to take home

Looking for something different to do?

WeLL, you can get a tui anyWhere in nZ, but there is onLy one pLace you can experience it aLL – tui hQ - mangatainoka. it’s our hoLy graiL! the home of aLL things tui!

Let us show you around, and show you how it’s made! What sort of brewery would we be if we didn’t let you have a gork around or a beer to taste! Have your photo taken in front of the famous Tui Brewery tower, or with the Tui Brewery Girls, or you may want to create your own personal yeah right saying on our giant magnetic billboard!

Most important of all, you’ll get a warm welcome at the bar, which draws its Tui direct from the source only a few metres away. Enjoy a tasting of a range of several fine beers on tap, or if you have time – book a tour, they run every day at 11am and 2pm. We have a menu of traditional “Kiwi Tucker” at our café to fill that wee space we like to call your “puku”. You’ll discover a museum featuring our Histui, as well as several other ‘free’ facilities around the brewery grounds.

The Tui Brewwereey biGteir.ls enjoying a

If you don’t care for a tasting, tour or something to eat, you can always have a gork around the Tui shop where you can pick up a souvenir of your visit or do your xmas shopping.

We have a bit of something for every-tui to do – over 40,000 people visit us a year!

Only a 40 minute drive from Palmerston North or Masterton (or ask any local, they know where we are).

We are open 7 days a Week Monday - Thursday Friday - Sunday

10.03am – 3.59pm 9.57am – 5.03pm

PH (06) 376 0815 / email: hq@tui.co.nz / www.tuibrewery.co.nz

Come marvel at it’s splend

or!

ty tips.

au At the bar, swapping be

tui breWery, state highWay 2, mangatainoka. www.tuibrewery.co.nz

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NELSON - ART ATTACK

DISCOVERING THE PACIFIC COAST

FEATURES

REGULARS

NORTH ISLAND 45

Northland – Kauri Coast

46

Waikato & Hamilton – Plenty to Offer Rotorua – The Birth Place of NZ Tourism

16

NZ Spring

21

Culture & Heritage

48 50

South Taranaki – Alive with Opportunity

25 Museums and Galleries

56

Palmerston North- The Giants Are Coming

57

Capital Eats – Wellington’s Dining Scene

61

Wellington -The Capital of Cool

72

Hutt Valley – Get Up Close to Nature

75

Wairarapa – A Boutique Region

28 Events & Festivals 31

Walking & Hiking

36 Bird Watching 39 New Zealand Cheese

SOUTH ISLAND 78

Marlborough – Simply Brilliant

89

Nelson – HeART Attack

97

Kaikoura – Simply Stunning

100 North Canterbury – Spoilt for Choice 107

Mackenzie & Aoraki – Magical Land

110

West Coast – Best Kept Secret

117

Lake Wanaka – Delightful in Spring

120

Queenstown – Adventure Capital

4 Welcome 5

Onboard Services

6

Your Scenic Journey

8

Pacific Coast

12

Kai Time

13

Let’s get social

124

Motive Power

126

Onboard Maps

128

Travel Apps

130

Safety and Puzzle

Our New Zealand Magazine

#0urnewzealand #interislandermemory #nzbytrain

ourne w z ealand . c o . n z

cover photo: Kaikoura – Pacific Coast Photo courtesy of ChristchurchNZ.com

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@transtasmanmediagroup.co.nz

EDITOR

Penny Thompson

Joanna May Joanna@transtasmanmediagroup.co.nz

DESIGN AND PRODUCTION

DISCLAIMER: Views expressed in the Inflight magazine are not necessarily endorsed by the publisher. No responsibility is accepted by the publisher or the printer for the accuracy of information contained in the text or advertisements. 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.

PRINTING Format Print, Wellington

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WELCOME ONBOARD Te¯na¯ koutou. Nau mai ki Aotearoa.

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

KiwiRail is woven into the fabric of New Zealand. It has been moving New Zealanders and visitors round the country for more than 150 years.

That means we know the country better than anyone, and know how to bring the best of New Zealand to you.

In this issue that best includes a unique culinary contribution to rival the pavlova. Spring sees the start of the whitebait season and in the first of our new Kai Time series we are highlighting the not-so-humble whitebait fritter. For those of you travelling on the TranzAlpine service to Greymouth – I can highly recommend it, the views are spectacular, the West Coast is the home of the fritter.

Spring also sees the Coastal Pacific service up and running after its winter break. Skirting the rugged coast where the mighty Pacific edges up against bush-clad mountains, the train is an ideal way to travel to a stopover in Kaikoura, home of whale-watching and other eco-tourism experiences, before continuing either north to connect with the Interislander or south to a revitalised Christchurch.

The Interislander has been described as one of the best ferry voyages in the world, through scenery that is “jaw droppingly stunning”. There’s also a chance that as you travel through the Southern Hemisphere’s version of the fjords you will see dolphins, orcas or whales.

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And for a unique view of the North Island – and hassle free, nohands way of getting from Auckland to Wellington (or vice-versa) – the Northern Explorer is the way to go. The trip includes the Raurimu Spiral, an engineering marvel that allows trains to rise 132 metres in short order. The train will deliver you into the heart of each city, rested, relaxed and ready.

KiwiRail is proud to be carrying you today. Enjoy your trip and let our experienced, helpful and friendly crew show you New Zealand like no-one else can.

PETER REIDY CEO 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 voyage.

SERVICES ON YOUR SHIP JOURNEY

_ SA F E T Y Please follow their instructions at all times. Posted throughout the ship are instructions on emergency signal and assembly station locations. Please take a moment to familiarise yourself these. From time to time, temporary signs will be displayed around the ship while our crew carry our cleaning or maintenance task. Please follow instructions on these signs.

_ recycle Interislander is proud to take responsibility to reduce 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.

_ AVO I D I NJURY 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.

Strong winds or strong ship movement can cause doors to swing open and shut without warning.

SERVICES ON YOUR TRAIN JOURNEY

_

CAF E 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.

_ commen tary Audio commentary is available at your seat. Simply plug in your headphones and select channel 2 (English) or channel 3 (Mandarin). A notification sound will indicate when commentary is about to commence.

_

_

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

SAF E T Y 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.

_ VIE W I NG DEC K 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.

_ vie w i n g decks Viewing decks are available on your journey. Please follow safety guidelines and ensure children are supervised when visiting the viewing deck. Please remember children should not climb or be placed on guardrails.

_ K I DS We get excited about our sailings, and no doubt children do too.

However please remember to supervise children at all times while onboard. To keep the kids entertained check out the available play areas onboard.

_ YOUR ON-BOARD CREW 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.

_ K ids En t ertain ment 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.

_ CAFE Onboard we have a fully licensed café which is open throughout the journey.

Enjoy a great selection of snacks, meals and beverages while sailing to the other side.

_ TO I LE T S Toilets and accessible toilets are available onboard. Please refer to directional signage onboard to locate these or ask a friendly crew member to point you in the right direction.

_ TO ILE T S Toilets are located at the end of each carriage, and an accessible toilet is located in the café carriage.

_ SI T BACK & RE L A X Now it’s time to sit back, relax, and enjoy the journey. Thanks for choosing to travel with KiwiRail Scenic Journey. We hope you enjoy your time on board.

_ S I T BACK A N D R EL A X Sit back, relax and enjoy the journey. You have over 3 hours to take in the scenery and facilities we have to offer so there is no need to rush. Thanks for choosing to travel with Interislander. We hope you enjoy your time onboard.

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

You can also share your experiences on TripAdvisor.

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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.

blenheim

TAPUAE-O-UENUKU

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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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greymouth

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moana WAIAU RIVER

Otira

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

arthur’s pass

18 FRANZ JOSEF GLACIER

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.

PS

HURUNUI RIVER

waipara rangiora

springfield

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rolleston

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LAKE PUKAKI

LAKE TEKAPO

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WAIMAKARIRI RIVER

darfield

FOX GLACIER

AORAKI/MT COOK

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christchurch

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RAKAIA RIVER

RANGITATA RIVER

QUEENSTOWN

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

A AW A SEOUR IK

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blenheim

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

hamilton

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.

lake rotorua

otorohanga

2

te kuiti

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.

4 lake taupo

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

taumarunui

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raurimu spiral national park

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mt ngauruhoe

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mt taranaki

Century, most recently in 1977.

Its Maori name means ‘throwing heated stones’.

mt tongariro

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

mt ruapehu

ohakune

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.

waiouru

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taihape

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

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marton RU

AH

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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palmerston north

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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paraparaumu

WELLINGTON 11

picton

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

seddon

D GE ARRAN A CLARENCE RIVER

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KAIKOURA

CHRISTCHURCH - PICTON - WELLINGTON

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.

o u rn e wz e a l an d.c o. nz

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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PACIFIC COAST

Discovering the Pacific Coast New Zealand is a nation defined by the sea. From the time the first MÄ ori waka landed in Aotearoa through the waves of ships bearing immigrants who left Europe seeking a better life in the furthest flung of colonies to current generations fishing, sailing, surfing or even just paddling at the beach, the sea is part of national life in a way matched in few other countries.

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pacific c oast

The Coastal Pacific is part of that. Skirting the Pacific as it travels between Christchurch and Picton, with stops along the way, it offers a unique view of the country from the comfort of a train carriage.

Passenger Lyn Chapman, from Christchurch, says she had driven the road round the Kaikoura coast many times but had not taken the train till recently. You see a lot more by train,” she says. “It was amazing, the whole thing was great.” Lyn singled out the staff for special mention, saying they were fantastic.

“ Some are so overwhelmed they cry, jump for joy, clap hands and hug each other.”

The windows in the carriages are big, and they need to be to handle the big views.

Those views include snow-capped mountains – though as summer kicks in, the snow checks out and the focus returns to the sea, with seals sun bathing on the rocks and even the occasional dolphin to be seen.

For those travelling north the journey begins in Christchurch, the most resilient of cities determined to rebuild a better version of itself in the wake of the 2010 and 2011 earthquakes. The city, renowned as having the most English of heritages, is adding innovation. Nothing symbolises that more than the ‘Cardboard Cathedral’, which opened in 2013. Designed by renowned Japanese architect Shigeru Ban, it uses images from Christchurch Cathedral's rose window. Although designed as a transitional building, it has been built to last up to 50 years.

All images courtesy of Whale Watch Kaikoura

A real highlight of the journey is the chance to stop over in Kaikoura, and the opportunity to experience some of its world famous eco-tourism activities.

Top of the must-do list is a trip with Whale Watch, an awardwinning nature tourism company set up in 1987 by Ngati Kuri, a subtribe of the South Island’s Ngai Tahu.

Just two years ago the Government recognised the ecological value of Kaikoura, putting in place new measures to protect what Environment Minister Nick Smith describes as an “extraordinary marine environment”. The 3km-deep Kaikoura Canyon is jammed hard against the coast this has created currents that have created a rich food chain that provides sustenance for myriad species including the true behemoths of the sea.

Whales have had a long association with Kaikoura.

European settlement began when Scotsman Robert Fyfe established a whaling station. He was soon joined by brother George, whose house, built on piles made from whale vertebrae, still stands today – in its original pink.

The whaling was a boom and bust operation, with the numbers of southern right whales rapidly dropping under the predations of the whalers. Farming soon took over as the economic mainstay.

Now whales are again a backbone of local life, with Kaikoura one of the few places where sperm whales can be seen year-round and close to shore.

Chevy Allen, who started as a guide and is now Whale Watch’s chief skipper says it still gives him a thrill when he sees a whale.

“Those you can identify and give names become a part of the

Off the coast of Kaikoura enjoying whales in their natural habitat.

family. The new whales that come through are always exciting because they show that the younger ones are still coming here to grow and get bigger.”

His favourite part of the job is showing people a beautiful creature. “Some are so overwhelmed they cry, jump for joy, clap hands and hug each other.”

And the watchers he takes out also have the ability to deliver memorable moments. Chevy says a personal favourite moment was when he took a group of Welsh out during the Rugby World 9

COA STAL PAC IFIC AUCKL AND

Allan Scott Winery It may be hard to believe, but it is only just a smidgeon over 40 years ago that the wine industry first took root in Marlborough soil.

Now one of the premier winegrowing regions in New Zealand, its stony alluvial soils, high sunshine hours and long autumns allow the grapes to ripen beautifully and deliver vintages that can more than foot it with the world’s best.

Allan Scott Family Winemakers

Cup held in New Zealand in 2011. “We had seen three whales, dolphins, orcas (killer whales) and sea birds. The group sang a Welsh song after every marine life species we saw and at the end of the tour, when we got back to port, they sang the Welsh National Anthem. It was something I’ll never forget - I absolutely loved it.”

The trips, operated by experienced Whale Watch staff, sight whales 95 per cent of the time – and if it doesn’t happen, 80 per cent of the trip cost is refunded.

to be regarded by many as the epitome of New World wines.

For those anxious to sample what’s on offer, a good range of wine tours are available.

Or, for those who truly want to immerse themselves in the culinary culture of the region, there is the Marlborough Wine & Food Festival. The festival, the original and longest running in New Zealand is a chance for producers in one of the top winegrowing areas of the country to show off.

For those who are after a slightly more sybaritic experience, as the Coastal Pacific travels north it takes its passengers into the heart of wine and food country round Blenheim.

The Interislander ferries, which take up where the Coastal Pacific leaves off in Picton are the ideal way to cross Cook Strait. Interislander has been bridging the gap between the two islands for more than 50 years, and more than 38 million people have taken part in what is one of the iconic New Zealand experiences.

A special feature is the play for your passage scheme, where bands can arrange to swap a performance for passengers for a free trip across the Strait.

The area is home to sauvignon blancs which are quaffed round the world and have come

The voyage itself offers yet more spectacular scenery as the ferries travel through the

The trips are incredibly popular, and early booking is advised. Those planning a visit should also note that Kaikoura is close enough to Christchurch to make a day-trip suitable.

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Prominent among the pioneers that built that glowing reputation is Allan Scott.

Allan has been involved in the Marlborough wine industry from its earliest days, helping plant the first vineyard to be established in the region, set up by Montana now- Brancott Estate - in 1973. He has worked on every harvest since.

In 1975 with wife Catherine, he planted the first of the family vineyards, growing on contract for the big makers. Catherine is one of the few Marlborough winegrowers to have been born in the region. She grew up on land her family had farmed for generations.

The Allan Scott winery, one of the first of the independent Marlborough ventures to be established, opened in 1990.

Other vineyards have followed. So too have other members of the family. Their three children all hold important roles in a company that sees the product through from vine to bottle. Josh is a winemaker, Sara a viticulturist and Victoria handles marketing.

Allan was made a Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit in the Queen’s Birthday Honours announced in 2011 for his services to viticulture.

He is still involved in all aspects of the business.

He sums up the winemaking philosophy driving the vineyard by saying “we believe in total sustainability - that’s in viticulture and in winemaking and I guess in terms of the next generation coming along and taking it over and improving it as well.”

pacific c oast

Sounds before delivering passengers – and their vehicles – to what Vogue dubbed the coolest little city in the world.

High on Vogue’s list of things to do is a visit to Te Papa, or, to give it its full title Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa.

The premier museum in New Zealand it is very much a handson affair, telling New Zealand’s story in a way designed to engage young and not so young minds.

The museum hosts a changing array of exhibitions but till April 2019 it is home to the stunning Gallipoli – The Scale of War, put together in conjunction with Weta Workshop, the creative powerhouse that helped Sir Peter Jackson deliver hobbits, wizards and orcs to the big screen.

The exhibition uses the stories of eight individuals to tell the story of Gallipoli, the landings in Turkey that cost 2779 Kiwis their lives but is seen by many as a pivotal event in the coming of age of a young nation.

And after Te Papa, wrap up the visit by taking the Wellington Writers Walk along the waterfront, with 23 quotes from some of New Zealand’s most famous wordsmiths, reproduced as concrete plaques or metal texts, and sandwiched, like so much of what defines New Zealand, between the land and the sea.

Gallipoli – The Scale of War. Photo courtesy of Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa

Upcoming Events Kaikoura Kaikoura Seafest Fri 30 Sept 2016

Christchurch World Buskers Festival 19 - 29 Jan 2017

Wellington World of Wearable Art 22 Sept - 9 Oct 2016

Blenheim Marlborough Wine & Food Festival Sat 11 Feb 2017

WOW - World of Wearable Arts. Photo courtesy WOW

Marlborough Wine & Food Festival

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kai time A journey on the world famous TranzAlpine train will carry you to the wild West Coast of Aotearoa / New Zealand, where whitebaiting is the religion of hardy souls who pass time on the riverbanks.

New Zealand whitebait are the glistening juveniles of five species of native freshwater fish that return to rivers from the sea. Sold all over New Zealand whitebait is a Spring delicacy, but catching and devouring what the locals refer to as white gold is the lifeblood of the West Coast.

Southland locals often see whitebaiting as a part of their heritage and those who grew up in the region will have stories of school holidays spent riverside watching the whitebait ‘run’. After setting up camp, families will find unoccupied areas on the side of rivers to set up their spotters, nets, deck chairs and empty buckets to then sit and wait patiently for their catch.

Commercial whitebaiters take up residence in caravans, baches (shacks) or huts for the season. The often comically named baches and their semi-permanent stands can often be sold for thousands of dollars. Regulary appearing rustically constructed, baiting stands resemble skeletal piers jutting out from riverbanks. On the underside of the stands are mesh screens placed in slots that create barriers to direct whitebait into nets.

Worth as much as $100 per kilogram, ‘baiting’ as they call it is big business. Some whitebait stands have been known to change hands for as much as $70,000.

The season on the West Coast is shorter than the rest of New Zealand (1 September to 14 November) which makes this regions whitebait more of a luxury. With such a high value commodity comes strict regulations which are placed to protect and conserve the delicate little species. There are rules around the size of nets, the hours of harvest and the type of equipment used (see www.doc.govt.nz/coastwhitebait) to ensure that some whitebait pass the nets and establish themselves upriver as adults. They can then return to estuaries to spawn the next generation to ensure that these famous wee fish continue to thrive.

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The Whitebait Festival The beginning of October marks the start of the 2016 West Coast Whitebait Festival, in which locals and visitors alike get riverside in pursuit of this iconic New Zealand delicacy.

The festival runs in four different locations across the West Coast, spanning October and November. Each region has its own unique take on the festival, with many competitions and home-grown events.

Walk along the river banks and see what the fuss is about, or grab a net and join in with the locals to get the full coastal experience.

Karamea 1-8 October Visit the wonderful Karamea region and enjoy the delicacy of fresh whitebait. During the first week of October, visitors in Karamea will be invited to join the local whitebaiters and have a go at catching whitebait themselves. On Saturday 8 October there will be a big cook off at Karamea Village Hotel.

Haast 8 October Held at the Heartland World Heritage Hotel, the Haast Whitebait Festival will have a celebrity chef cook-off, whitebait racing, lessons on filleting, and of course delicious whitebait ready to eat all day. The kids will be occupied with a whitebait hunt and bouncy castle, while you can put your feet up and enjoy this New Zealand delicacy accompanied by your favourite tipple.

Westport 21 October The Westport Whitebait Festival is a true Kiwi experience providing a family-friendly, relaxed atmosphere with entertainment and culinary delights. Stop in to see The Great Whitebait Cook Off, a competition and display from local chefs, followed by the famous Whitebait Filleting Competition.

Greymouth 12 November Bluff has its oysters, Kaikoura has its seafood, but the West Coast has its whitebait. So go along to Monteith’s Brewery for the Left Coast Whitebait Festival and celebrate the ‘Best of the West’ in terms of hospitality, entertainment, food and beverages, fronted by the white gold that is West Coast whitebait.

To book or to find out more about the TranzAlpine train or any of our other services please visit www.kiwirailscenic.co.nz

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

kai tim e

In the very first instalment of our Kai Time pages we feature the star of the wild West Coast of New Zealand, the not so humble whitebait fritter.

Tony Smith’ s Whitebait Fritters There has always been plenty of discussion on the best recipes for this icon of New Zealand microfish, so here is one more.

This method (pictured) works well to stretch the whitebait out a little; it results in a very light fritter and is my personal favourite. This recipe will serve four as a light lunch or as an appetiser with drinks.

Whitebait has a wonderful delicate flavour, so try not to mask this with over-dominant side dishes or sauces. Fry in a light, neutral tasting oil such as canola. Serve with a beurre blanc sauce, fresh bread (the classic whitebait fritter between slices of bread is hard to beat), and a salad of young leaves simply dressed with lemon juice and salad oil, finished with some finely chopped fresh chervil, chives or Italian parsley.

SERVES 4 WHITEBAIT FRITTERS

Beurre Blanc (Butter Sauce)

200g whitebait 3 eggs 1 tablespoon plain flour ½ teaspoon salt a pinch of white pepper canola oil

The classic butter sauce is great with river fish. While we may not be eating as much butter these days, this sauce is still worth the occasional exception.

Makes 2/3 cup

Put the whitebait into a sieve and rinse under cold water. Drain well. Pat dry with paper towels.

Separate the yolks and whites from 2 of the eggs, placing them in separate bowls. Add the third whole egg to the yolks. Whisk the egg yolks and one egg together with the flour and seasonings.

Add the whitebait.

When ready to cook, whisk the egg whites until they are quite fluffy. Fold well into the whitebait mix.

Heat a little light cooking oil in a frying pan and spoon in good tablespoon amounts of the mixture. Turn when golden brown.

Drain on paper towels.

2 shallots, finely diced 2 tablespoons water 2 tablespoons white wine 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar 2 tablespoons cream 150g unsalted butter, diced, at room temperature a good pinch of salt a pinch of pepper Put the shallots into a stainless-steel pot with the water, wine and vinegar. Bring to the boil and simmer until totally reduced, 6–7 minutes. Add the cream and reduce again until it thickens slightly, around 5 minutes, Turn the heat down to the lowest setting and whisk in the diced butter, piece by piece. Strain if desired, and season a little with salt and pepper. Keep in a warm place until the fish (or fritters) are ready.

Christchurch-based chef Tony Smith is a keen outdoorsman and conservationist with a passion for fishing and small game hunting. You can find these recipes and many more in Tony’s debut cookbook ‘A River Rules my Kitchen' – published by HarperCollins NZ and available online and in all good bookstores.

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Let’s get social Our hub for all things social.

Tag your travel pics with us and we could share it on our social sites (with credit given to you, of course!). Whether it’s rolling along on a KiwiRail Scenic Journey or cruising to the other side with Interislander – capture and share the best moments of your journey, and show the rest of the world the true beauty of train and ferry travel and scenic New Zealand!

Get snapping, tagging and don’t forget to follow us!

Photo: @kirianna_nz

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_ POWERING UP There’s nothing worse than a flat camera or smartphone battery when you’re travelling or on holiday. Make sure you look out for our provided power outlets on-board. Plug in, power-up and don’t let a flat battery get in the way of your Kodak moment! Note for international visitors: New Zealand’s electricity supply runs at 230/240 volts and we use angled two or three pin plugs.

Get snapping, tagging, and don’t forget to follow us!

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#coastalpacific

#northernexplorer

#INTERISLANDERMEMORY

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Shoot, share & win!

We want to see the best of your travel photos, we just might share your photo with the rest of the world! We are looking for photos that capture the true essence of New Zealand and the iconic experiences aboard Interislander and KiwiRail Scenic Journeys.

Whether you are sampling local cuisine in one of our cafes, enjoying the scenery from one of our observation decks or just plain relaxing while you cruise to the other side, make sure to tag your photos #interislandermemory.

Traveling by rail? Tag your photos #NZbyTrain to showcase the breath-taking landscape from the open air viewing decks or from the comfort of your own seat.

Whether it’s by ferry or train, share your travel moments with us and you may just be rewarded!

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Terms & Conditions

+ KiwiRail Scenic may determine, at it’s sole discretion, whether it will use any contributions submitted to it. + Prizes offered for contributions are non-transferrable or redeemable for cash.

Full terms and conditions are outlined on travel vouchers. + By contributing content the contributor(s) agree to allow KiwiRail Scenic to share the content on social channels without notice to the contributor(s).

Photo: @yesi_ig

Photo: @ letitia_quaresimin

WHERE CAN I CONNECT ?

Wi-Fi is available on all sailings! However you will be travelling through some remote parts of the country which means connectivity is patchy and sometimes not available for periods of time.

Photo: @shawicortez

Wi-Fi is not available throughout this journey - You will be travelling through some remote parts of the country – tunnels and all.

Unfortunately this means internet connectivity is patchy and sometimes not available for periods of time, however most stations are located in areas with coverage. So when you find the train slowing down as you approach a station take the opportunity to upload and share your train snaps!

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NZ SPRING

AUCKL AND

SIMPLY STUNNING IN SPRING

BY JO MAY

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o u rn e wz e a l an d.c o. nz Bridge to Nowhere - Whanganui National Park.

NZ SPRING

Spring offers a snapshot of New Zealand’s stunning diversity of landscapes, like no other season. Match that with milder temperatures, longer days and less crowded landscapes and Spring is a good time to visit.

But when does Spring burst into life in New Zealand? In the North Island, it may be when the kowhai trees burst into their golden yellow blooms bringing the nectar-eating native birds out of their nests and the paddocks are populated with baby lambs.

But in the temperate South Island it may be when the mountainfringed fruit bowl of Central Otago covers itself in a chaos of pink and white blossoms — or, when the exquisite white herons or sacred kotuku, in the West Coast hideaway of Whataroa, return to their only New Zealand nesting colony to transform themselves with fine breeding plumage.

Farmers’ markets are a morning highlight in many regions, and many vineyards celebrate the release of the new season’s wine.

The start of Spring coincides with the beginning of the whitebait season on the West Coast. This delicacy is best eaten as a mouthwatering fritter with a slice of lemon on the side.

Mount Cook National Park Photo: David-Swanson

Spring is also considered one of the best times for New Zealand fishing. This is a good season for trout fishing and the central North Island's Lake Tongariro attracts many international anglers.

Lake Rotorua, also in the area, is one of the country's top trout fishing destinations, and one of the best brown trout fisheries in the world.

Festivals of every description are set to flourish from September until the end of November. During this time of year, visitors to New Zealand are spoiled for choice when it comes to garden festivals such as Powerco Taranaki Garden Spectacular or Nelmac Garden Marlborough. For more information, visit

Seafood lovers can tempt their taste buds without having to catch them at the Seafest Festival in Kaikoura. The magnificent seafood for the extravaganza is plucked straight out of the ocean on the South Island town's doorstep. For more information, visit www.

Wine lovers are not forgotten, with the acclaimed Toast Martinborough event bringing together top local wineries just outside of the capital for a celebration of the years vintage.

seafest.co.nz

For more information, visit www.toastmartinborough.co.nz

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PIES

www.gardenfestnz.co.nz or www.gardenmarlborough.co.nz

●

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NZ SPRING

Photo: QueenstownNZ.com

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

If you are wanting to experience talent and beauty of New Zealand people and what they can create including art and beauty, then the World of WearableArt (WOW) show in Wellington is a must do. The only event of its kind in the world, the World of Wearable Arts get more elaborate as the years go by. This annual event celebrates creative designers throughout New Zealand who are given the opportunity to showcase their weird and wacky designs. Enjoy the beauty, glamour and bright colours of an event that will make you go WOW! For more information, visit www. worldofwearableart.com Spring provides clear, settled days for those wanting to explore the outdoors. Crisp Spring weather and less crowds make it a good time to explore some of New Zealand’s walking tracks.

Further adventure can be found on New Zealand’s ski fields.

Spring skiing in New Zealand offers more opportunities for sunny, clear days on the slopes. The ski season continues through until October, giving thrill seekers an extended chance to experience uncrowded fields and the opportunity for off-piste skiing, snowboarding and heli-skiing.

The best of sport and culture, fine food and wine, a million daffodils, kiwi chicks and sweet, snow-white herons in their wedding best: Spring is definitely the time to see New Zealand at its best. Whatever you choose to take part in during your time in this slice of paradise, you are sure to enjoy yourself in New Zealand this Spring!

Ph: 0800 800 398 or visit www.aon.co.nz

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NZ SPRING

Driving Creek Railway & Potteries

New Zealand's only narrow-gauge mountain railway travels through regenerating native forest with pottery sculptures lining the track.

Coromandel Town is home to the wellknown Driving Creek Railway, a favourite with young and old. Founded by local artist, conservationist and rail enthusiast, Barry Brickell, the narrow gauge railway climbs a tortuous route through the bush over viaducts and through tunnels to deposit you at the Eye full Tower, with panoramic views over the Hauraki Gulf.

An onsite gallery showcases paintings and sculpture. Adjacent to Driving Creek Railway is a wildlife sanctuary, established for the preservation and enhancement of local endangered native wildlife species, and surrounded by a vermin-proof fence. www.drivingcreekrailway.co.nz

Driving Creek Railway & Potteries

Mountain Valley Honey

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

Their hives are situated in rural sites where the bees have a wide variety of floral sources. Each year the company enjoys a varied harvest which can include Manuka, Native Bush, Rata, Kamahi, Autumn Gold, Clover, Bakers Honey and Honeydew.

All their honey is able to be purchased online including other products like honey gift packs, honey drizzlers, bee pollen granules and beeswax blocks.

For more information and to order Mountain Valley Honey today visit www.mountainvalleyhoney.co.nz

Va l l e y H o n e y

Natural High

Natural High can take you on adrenalinefilled adventures in beautiful New Zealand. They believe exploring New Zealand by bike is, quite simply, the best way to truly experience this remarkable country.

Whether you are looking for bike rental for a weekend or a cycle tour of the whole country they are simply the best. They specialise in bike rental, cycle touring and bicycle tours, self-guided / independent cycle tours and camper van rentals. Let them talk you through the best options that suit you and your requirements and accessories. They are based in Auckland in the North Island and Christchurch in the South Island. Visit the adrenaline dealers for further information www.naturalhigh.co.nz

ÂŽ

At Natural High we believe exploring New Zealand by bicycle is, quite simply, the best way to truly experience this remarkable country.

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.

Whether you’re looking for bike rental for a weekend or a grand cycle tour of the whole country, someone in our Auckland or Christchurch branches will talk you through all your options, and give you the best possible advice. Contact us for all your bike hire, accessories, touring and group tour needs nationwide.

380 Driving Creek Road, 3km north of Coromandel Town

P: 07 866 8703

CONVENIENTLY LOCATED NEAR THE AIRPORT IN CHRISTCHURCH AND AUCKLAND

690a Harewood Road, Christchurch 10 Uenuku Way, Auckland International Airport

E: bookings@dcrail.nz

0800 444 144

BOOKINGS ADVISABLE

www.drivingcreekrailway.co.nz

E: team@naturalhigh.co.nz www.naturalhigh.co.nz

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10

SPECIAL OFFER

Experience the best of New Zealand by train

WELLINGTON – NATIONAL PARK – AUCKLAND

CHRISTCHURCH – KAIKOURA – PICTON – WELLINGTON

*Discount available online only. Enter the code SPRING2 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 September - 15 December 2016. Our New Zealand magazine advertisement must be presented at station check-in. Terms and conditions apply.

* % OFF

Terms and Conditions apply

CHRISTCHURCH – ARTHURS PASS – GREYMOUTH

Book now at

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AUCKL AND

CULTURE & heritage

REAL EXPERIENCes

BY JO MAY

A taste of local culture. Photo: Chris Williams

New Zealand may be a young country, but has a diverse wealth of Māori culture and heritage.

Culture

New Zealand's Māori culture is an integral part of Kiwi life and adds a unique, dynamic experience for visitors. Māori are the tangata whenua, the indigenous people, of New Zealand.

They came here more than 1000 years ago from their mythical Polynesian homeland of Hawaiki.

As a visitor to New Zealand, you can experience Māori culture by visiting a marae with an organised tour, watching a carving or weaving demonstration or learning about fascinating myths and legends from passionate Māori guides. Whakarewarewa, in Rotorua is a living Māori village and offers guided tours, cultural performances and traditional Māori food. Maata Hikoikoi in Taranaki offers a marae and meeting house experience where you can stay overnight at the Pa. Heritage

Whilst comparatively New Zealand is still a young country, the wealth of accessible heritage attractions will keep history enthusiasts entertained.

Up and down the country there are places where time has stood still. Historic cottages and sprawling mansions, breweries and old hotels, Victorian cities and Art Deco towns - they’ve been preserved and protected to give you a glimpse of the past.

In the far north, the Waitangi Treaty Grounds are a lesson in early New Zealand history - both Māori and European. In Auckland, grand old homes showcase the finer side of colonial life. Napier captures the glamour and architecture freedom of the 1930s, while Wellington invites you to take a look at old Government Buildings, the largest wooden building in the southern hemisphere.

The South Island’s heritage sites encompass the hardship of the gold rush days, the glamour of high society and the day-to-day toil of pioneer farmers. You can visit everything from a pitsawn pioneer cottage to New Zealand’s only castle, built by an eccentric Dunedin banker in the 1870s. One such historic home that offers guided tours is Olveston Historic Home in Dunedin. It was home to the Theomin family and the house and the original contents are open to the public and show how the family lived in the early 1900s.

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c u lt u r e & h e ritag e

S I G H TS E E I N G TO U RS N Z Māori Phrases

A collection of Māori words that you will come across while visiting Aotearoa.

Haere mai Welcome!

Bay of Islands | Auckland | Waitomo Hobbiton | Rotorua | Lake Taupo Christchurch | Queenstown | Milford Sound SPECTACULAR AUCKLAND TOUR Adult $135 / Child (5-14yrs) $67.50 Departs 10am Ends 3pm Tour Code: 01TC

WAITOMO & ROTORUA GEOTHERMAL FULL DAY DELUXE TOUR

Kia ora "Kia ora!" Many New Zealanders welcome visitors with the traditional greeting of the indigenous Māori people. Māori are the tangata whenua (people of the land) of Aotearoa New Zealand, and Māori culture is central to New Zealand's fresh, invigorating and adventurous national identity.

The Māori marae The marae (meeting place) is central to the concept of Māoritanga (Māori culture). It is the place where Māori values and philosophy are reaffirmed. Carvings and decorative panels inside each marae tell the story of ancestors.

Pōwhiri Māori culture has a dynamic nature that is inherent in a lot of what is seen on marae. The pōwhiri is a formal Māori welcome.

The Haka The haka popularised by New Zealand’s premier sporting team the All Blacks, Ka Mate, is not the only haka - there are various forms of haka and many individual forms of haka. However, Ka Mate, the haka of the Ngā ti Toa iwi, is the most renowned.

Adult $335 / Child (5-14yrs) $167.50 Departs 7:30am Ends 8:15pm Tour Code: 7R

HOBBITON, RUAKURI CAVE & KIWI HOUSE DAY DELUXE TOUR Adult $350 / Child (5-14yrs) $175 Departs 7am Ends 7pm Tour Code: HOBRK

AMAZING MILFORD SOUND DAY TOUR Adult $175 / Child $87.50 Departs 7:15am Ends 7pm Alt departure 9:15am Ends 9pm Alt departure Nov - Apr only. Tour Code: 41 & 42

A UNIQUE MAORI EXPERIENCE LIKE NO OTHER Visit Parihaka to share a story of survival against all odds.

A story of heartbreak and tragedy, a story of promise and redemption.

BOOK ONLINE AND SAVE 15% ON ANY GRAY LINE TOUR. Use Promo code: OURNZ15

0800 698 687 grayline.co.nz

Enter into tapu (sacredness) as you experience the powhiri (welcome). Listen to the karanga (the calling) that heralds the entry onto the marae. Listen to the whaikorero (speeches), waiata (music & songs) at one of the three meeting houses. Then listen to the history of Parihaka, the leaders Tohu Kakahi and Te Whiti o Rongomai and their people.

5 0 K M S S O U T H O F N E W P LY M O U T H O V E R N I G H T, F U L L A N D H A L F D AY T O U R S

www.maata.co.nz

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c u lt u r e & h e ritag e

Photo: James Heremaia

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New Zealand Oldest Riverside Tavern ...more than you imagine

The Landing

a la carte restaurant. Bookings essential...

New Zealand’s Oldest Riverside Tavern The Riverhead is New Zealand’s Oldest Riverside Tavern and is fast becoming a ‘must do’ for anyone visiting Auckland. Only 20 minutes by car, it is also assessable by ferry if the tides are right on the day.

The tavern has interesting history…the early Māori used a point just to the south of the tavern’s existing dock to land, then ‘portage’ their waka to the Kumeu River to gain access the Kaipara Harbour and the lands in the Far North. Early immigrants followed the same route, passing though this building built in the late 1860’s, often staying overnight or enjoying a well-deserved meal before proceeding by stage coach across to the Kaipara Harbour.

The Riverhead was a vital stop for these early pioneering travellers as well as a meeting place for the local gum diggers and traders.

The tavern was a vital part of the Riverhead community and was well known for its owner’s wonderful hospitality in the early part of the century. Unfortunately, due to the development of roads and railway routes moving further to the west the tavern began a slow but steady decline.

The Portage Bar

where people meet, play & relax

It developed a reputation…a bad one.

By 2000 the old building was tried and broken, everything needed to be fixed. It wallowed in receivership for several years before attracting new bold owners. They saw potential and set about restoring the original building to her previous glory. They re-wired, re-plumbed, re-roofed, re-piled, re-placed rotten weatherboards and because Riverhead didn’t have reticulated sewerage at the time, created new septic fields.

After extensive research they uncovered newspaper articles dating back to the 1860’s which now adorn the walls and tell about ‘Love and Attempted Murder’, ‘Smuggling’ and ‘Supposed Suicides’. More stories and articles are reproduced on outside cover of their menu.

Because The Riverhead and its three separate venues sit nestled at the top of the Waitemata, it has always been a favourite with ‘excursionists’. In the late 1800’s thousands of people would take day trips to the Riverhead Hotel, as it was called in the day, to get out of the stench of Auckland. They still do today, although for different reasons.

In 2011 after a 9 month renovation, they reopened the old girl with a fresh new look, attracting people from every walk of life with the promise of genuine Kiwi Hospitality and generous gastro pub fare.

The Boat House

FREE Live Music Sunday afternoons Take the scenic route north of Auckland, miss the harbour bridge and experience a little bit of New Zealand’s history at this newly renovated but original tavern.... ...or come by boat. See our website for details.

The Riverhead has an a la carte restaurant, and classic neighbourhood bar and a functions centre ideal for weddings and private functions which is open to the public every Sunday afternoon with free live music on the lawn.

Cnr York & Queen, Riverhead 0820 Phone 09 412 8902, book@theriverhead.co.nz

For driving instructions visit our website & scroll down to ‘come by car’

www.theriverhead.co.nz

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THE ARTS

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Photo: Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki

Immerse yourself

BY JO MAY

With more than 40 million items relating to New Zealand’s history, museums and galleries contribute to our national identity. 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.

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.

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 M-aori 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 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.

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.

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th e arts

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.

New Zealand Maritime Museum

Two Exhibitions One Ocean For people living in New Zealand and the Pacific Islands, the sea is integral to our identity. Two exhibitions opening at the New Zealand Maritime Museum, explore creative endeavours that have strong associations with the sea.

Ko au te wai, ko te wai ko au: I am the Water, the Water is me is a project facilitated by The Roots Creative Entrepreneurs Collective.

Working with members of the Waitematā Youth Group, The Roots aim to raise awareness about the problem of the huge rubbish patches in the Pacific Ocean. After collecting rubbish from a walk along a section of Auckland coastline, participants thought about solutions to this threat. Some of their ideas were translated into objects made from the cleaned litter. These are on display alongside objects from the museum’s collection, which were used as design inspiration.

difference in their community, all visitors to the exhibition are invited to actively engage with the issue.

Meanwhile, Dravuni: Sivia yani na vunilagi - Beyond the Horizon, a collaboration between Ema and Kaliopate Tavola, explores cultural transmission in the digital age, belonging and place-making, legends and storytelling.

The father-daughter duo have been collaborating on a blog about their island of Dravuni for six years. The blog explores the history, legends, social structure and contemporary issues relating to Dravuni from the perspective of a ‘Kaidravuni’, one who is indigenous to the island. This exhibition attempts to illustrate the on and offline connections and conversations the blog has enabled. Ema Tavola notes, "This is a deeply personal project that relates to my relationship with my Dad, our relationship to Dravuni, and the ways that the Internet and the Ocean have become our gateways to the world. We have engaged our village weavers, the children of Dravuni descendants, and invited Leilani Kake, Auckland-based videographer and artist, along to document and respond to the process."

The exhibitions will run at the New Zealand Maritime Museum until October 10.

For more information visit www.maritimemuseum.co.nz

Although the primary aim of the project was to empower the young participants with the confidence that they can make a

SET SAIL ON A VOYAGE OF DISCOVERY At Auckland’s waterfront Maritime Museum Come and discover the seafaring stories that have shaped New Zealand. Try your hand at yacht design, hear the cannon fire and test your sea legs in the rocking cabin. You can even get out on the water with a heritage vessel sailing.

ates Oper ys & a Sund olidays H c i l Pub

11am to m 3 3. 0p

Open 10am-5pm, 7days a week.

Harbour sailings Tue - Sun.

Check out the reviews on www.tripadvisor.com 26

New Zealand Maritime Museum Corner Quay & Hobson Streets, Viaduct Harbour, Auckland.

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

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The Glenbrook Vintage Railway

A nostalgic 15 km return trip back in time through the beautiful rural Franklin countryside, aboard our 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. Last train of the day departs Waiuku at 3.30 pm.

Train operate Sundays and most public holidays from Labour Weekend (late October) to Queens Birthday weekend (early June). For more information, visit www.gvr.co.nz

Historic exhibition of Māori portraits to open at Auckland Art Gallery Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki is New Zealand’s largest and most inspiring visual arts experience. This spring and summer, a major new exhibition, The Māori Portraits: Gottfried Lindauer’s New Zealand, offers a once-in-alifetime opportunity to see more than 150 oil paintings of Māori and Pākehā (New Zealand Europeans) together at one time. The exhibition is free and is open from Saturday 22 October 2016 to Sunday 19 February 2017.

The exhibition, four years in the making, celebrates the work and life of Gottfried Lindauer (1839 – 1926), one of New Zealand’s most prolific portrait painters of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Alongside sharp-focused portraits of tattooed Māori chiefs in both traditional and western garb and European settlers in their ‘Sunday best’, it includes paintings of everyday Māori life, as well as photographs by the artist Alongside the main show, the Gallery is running a smaller exhibition, Identifying Lindauer: His Materials and Techniques. This reveals forgeries of the artist’s work, which provide insights into Lindauer’s artistic practice by comparing his original artworks with real-life fakes.

As well as fascinating information from the paintings’ molecular and microscopic levels, the story is rounded out with the inclusion of a portrait by New Zealand’s other famous painter of Māori, Charles F Goldie.

Gottfried Lindauer, Women Weaving, 1906, oil on canvas, Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki, Gift of Mr H E Partridge 1915

Auckland Art Gallery is situated on the corner of Kitchener and Wellesley Streets in central Auckland and is open every day from 10am to 5pm except Christmas Day. Entry is free.

The Māori Portraits Gottfried Lindauer’s New Zealand Exquisite. Captivating. Moving.

Over 120 powerful portraits.

Free entry

Exhibition partners

22 Oct 2016 — 19 Feb 2017

TE MĀORI MANAAKI TAONGA TRUST

Gottfried Lindauer Pare Watene 1878 Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki gift of Mr H E Partridge, 1915

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E VENTS WOW – World of Wearable Art Wellington

FASHION & FEASTS New Zealand hosts a diverse mix of events celebrating the Kiwi lifestyle. Local fare, artistic talent, sporting prowess and cultural diversity are showcased in spectacular settings throughout the country, and offer visitors a true insight into Kiwi life.

Beautiful vineyards, lush countryside and everything from majestic mountains to fabulous beaches make perfect settings for all kinds of sporting and cultural events, festivals and concerts.

Art festivals are held all over the country and celebrate people, places, culture and art. Festivals include classical music, jazz, pop, opera, traditional performances from around the world and contemporary New Zealand artists, including Māori dance and modern ballet.

Food and wine festivals are also held around New Zealand and are not to be missed. Experience famous wines, sample fresh delicious seafood and attend culinary events that showcase New Zealand.

Enjoy the outdoors with music festivals set against beautiful backdrops or share a thrill of being in the audience of a sporting event or taking part in a race and around lush countryside and majestic mountains.

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EVENTS THIS SPRING

North Island

South Island

WOW – World of Wearable Art Wellington 22 Sept – 9 Oct 2016 www.worldofwearableart.com

Kaikoura Seafest 1 Oct 2016 www.seafest.co.nz

Rotorua Tulip Festival 1 -9 OcT www.tulipfestrotorua.co.nz Powerco Taranaki Garden Spectacular 28 Oct – 6 Nov 2016 www.gardenfestnz.co.nz Toast Martinborough Wine, Food & Music Festival 20 NoV 2016 www.toastmartinborough.co.nz

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Queenstown JazzFest 21-24 Oct www.queenstownjazzfest.co.nz Nelmac Garden Marlborough 3 – 6 Nov 2016 www.gardenmarlborough.co.nz Christchurch NZ Harness Racing Cup & Show Week 5-12 Nov www.nzcupandshow.co.nz

AUC K LAND

ROTORUA IN COLOUR Rotorua Tulip Festival Oct 1-9

More than 100,000 tulip bulbs will be in full bloom in Rotorua over October as the city celebrates New Zealand’s biggest tulip festival.

The festival will involve a whole host of exciting events. Be inspired by guest presenters, mingle with celebrity speakers, compete to bake the best Dutch apple cake, participate in spring garden talks and tours, organised bike rides, markets, and a plethora of activities for children. There will also be the opportunity to take tulip bus tours to gardens and hothouses and see robots in action at a potting mix plant.

Celebrity speakers who will add to the wonder of the festival include: acclaimed chef Michael Van de Elzen; renowned landscape designer and author Xanthe White*; and designer and contemporary furniture maker David Trubridge.

A Sunday Rotorua Farmers’ Market will be launched during the festival. Michael Van de Elzen will be there!

Premier Art Exhibitions in Rotorua During the Festival

Two art exhibitions with a distinct Dutch flavour are being staged at Rotorua Museum during the festival – right on the doorstep of the tulip beds at Government Gardens.

Digitally remastered Rembrandt works will be exhibited, as will the work of Dutchborn Rotorua artist, the late Walter Bakkenes (1920 – 1986).

Why not come for an extended weekend and include other adventures or spa activities. For further information visit www.tulipfestrotorua.co.nz

*Xanthe is being brought to the festival thanks to the support received from Daltons & Gardeners Landscape Supplies (GLS). o u r n e w z e a l a n d.c o. n z

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German Film Festival 2016

BLOOMIN’ MARVELLOUS

German Film Festival in 2016 the Goethe Institute proudly presents its 8th German Film Festival in New Zealand. You can watch ten feature and documentary films in Auckland, Christchurch, Dunedin, New Plymouth and Wellington.

The Powerco Taranaki Garden Spectacular (formerly the Rhododendron Festival) is New Zealand’s premier garden and events festival, offering a feast of mostly private gardens, open to visit for 10 days. It runs October 28 to November 6, 2016.

Look out for new work from leading directors and actors, and discover some of cinema’s emerging and most exciting talents.

This year’s German Film Festival includes a suspenseful dramatisation of Germany’s postwar history, a haunting exploration of human survival in Fukushima, a refreshing new adaptation of a children’s classic – and much more.

The festival has house and garden tours, Taylor-Chapman tours, celebrity chef demonstrations, guided walks, workshops and garden talks on everything from bees to propagating to bio-intensive gardening.

Admission is free – just turn up early at the venue to secure your seats. Tickets will be available from the box office before the start of each screening: unfortunately, they cannot accept advance bookings, so arrive in plenty of time.

For more information, visit www.goethe.de/nz

The annual feature event of the festival is the Landscape Design Project – this year discovers the Lost Paradise Project in New Plymouth’s beautiful Pukekura Park.

Of the 45 gardens, 40 are private gardens open to the public exclusively for the festival. The 2016 festival will also feature 10 new gardens.

Festival programmes are free and include a map for visitors to plan their garden visits. Please call us on 0800 746 363 or check out their website www.gardenfestnz.co.nz to sign up to get a free programme posted to you.

GERMAN FILM FESTIVAL 2016 WELLINGTON 21-24 September CHRISTCHURCH 28 September & 1 October

New Zealand’s Premier Garden & Events Festival

DUNEDIN 1-2 October NEW PLYMOUTH 4-9 October AUCKLAND 10-16 October Full festival programme:

www.goethe.de/nz

Tired of reading subtitles?

Goethe-Institut German courses in Auckland and Wellington

GET PLANNING NOW! 28 October to 6 November 2016

german@wellington.goethe.org 04 3856924 or 021 829027

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Order your free programme www.gardenfestnz.co.nz 0800 746 363

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walking & hiking

new zealand

walking in paradise

BY JO MAY

Photo: QueenstownNZ.com

Exploring New Zealand’s walking and hiking trails is one of the most rewarding ways of seeing the country’s outstanding natural beauty.

It’s one of the best ways to see beautiful landscapes and explore vast wilderness areas.

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 multi-day hike through national parks, native forests and stunning coastal regions.

longest walking trails. Stretching the entire length of the country, Te Araroa is a scenic public walkway that links New Zealand’s actual and symbolic poles - Cape Reinga, at the northern tip of the North Island, with Bluff, on the South Island’s southernmost coast.

Experience New Zealand's 9 Great Walks which showcase some of our most well-known locations and diverse landscapes.

Energetic hikers (or trampers) can discover glacier-carved valleys and traverse mountain passes, while more sedate daywalkers can explore golden beaches, bush walks and other sites of scenic, historic and cultural interest.

Short hikes or day walks are everywhere and easily fit into travel itineraries. Beautiful nature walks are right on the doorstep of our cities and towns and in just a few hours, you can experience some of the best New Zealand scenery.

Or discover Te Araroa - the long New Zealand trail. When the 3000-kilometre Te Araroa – The Long Pathway was completed in New Zealand in December 2011, it became one of the world's

For more information on Walking and Hiking and the latest safety and track information visit www.doc.govt.nz

Walk any trail independently or simply book walking holidays with a local tour provider to see New Zealand at its best - by foot!

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AUCKL AND

Kaikoura Wilderness Walks Let us introduce you to a unique New Zealand luxury walk, a hidden gem located on the east of the South Island.

Sophisticated Wilderness best describes this adventure into the stunning Seaward Kaikoura mountains, a journey of discovery leading you “into the World of the Gods” under the legendary “Te Ao Whekere”. Puhi Peaks Nature Reserve gives access to a unique wilderness area.

This luxury walk gives an extraordinary insight into the evolution and biodiversity of one of New Zealand’s world famous landscapes. A diverse array of endangered flora and fauna are a feature of this walk. Truly a bird watcher paradise and a photographer’s dream.

Accommodation

Shearwater Lodge provides unsurpassed tranquillity in one of New Zealand’s most remote locations. This purpose built luxury eco-lodge is set in a spectacular alpine valley at an elevation of 1000m (3280ft) surrounded by some of the most magnificent scenery nature has to offer anywhere in the world. This has to be one of New Zealand’s best kept secrets.

Why is it so Special?

You will find many reasons why this walk is so deserving of the acclaim it receives, but the fact that a maximum of 10 visitors share in the walk at any one time is what makes them feel part of a unique ‘wilderness experience’. Escape from the busyness of other tracks and enjoy a remote privately owned New Zealand gem.

As a family run business attention to detail and a commitment to ensure guests are catered for on a very personal level, contributes to the walk being a very different all round experience. Truly a place to rest, relax and rejuvenate whilst gaining a sense of personal achievement in this “World of the Gods”.

For further information, visit www.kaikourawilderness.co.nz

wa l king & hiking

CRUISE & EXPERIENCE THE MARLBOROUGH SOUNDS 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.

Why not try one of their Early Bird Eco-Marine Haven cruise?

Situated in the outer Queen Charlotte Sound, Motuara Island is a reserve island not inhabited by humans. This island has become part of the Department of Conservation’s (DOC) programs for rare and endangered species.

Motuara Island is a bird sanctuary, a safe haven for many rare species, including the South Island Saddleback and Bush Robin.

The Island is predator free and the bird life is relatively unafraid of humans.

You will experience early morning bird songs that greet you as you step ashore. Small blue penguins nest in boxes alongside a well formed track which gradually climbs to a spectacular vantage point built above the forest canopy. You will have approximately 2 hours to explore the island so this is a great trip for birdwatching.

Make it a whole day outing. For no extra cost you can choose to add on a walk on the Queen Charlotte Track. You will be dropped at Resolution Bay and walk 10.5 km to Furneaux Lodge through ancient beech forest. Return to Picton at approx. 4:30pm Lunch in the Sounds

For the less active, Cougar Line offers a cruise and lunch option.

Let them take you on a cruise to a resort and drop you off for brunch or lunch in a dreamy cove. Dine café style on the water’s edge and savour fresh salmon, mussels, and regional specialties matched with Marlborough’s renowned wines.

With plenty of options to choose from with Cougar Line, you are bound to find something that will make your time in the Marlborough Sounds a magical experience. It is essential to book ahead and easily located as the office with 3 purple flags flying on the roof down at the town wharf. Public parking is adjacent to their building. www.cougarline.co.nz

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wa l king & hiking

Spring on the Milford and Routeburn Track

New Zealand’s most famous walk, the Milford Track has been thrilling hikers for more than 150 years. The alpine and fiord scenery is as perfect as ever. The Routeburn Track offers soaring mountain peaks, huge valleys, waterfalls and jewel-like lakes, this track links the Mount Aspiring National Park with Fiordland National Park. One of the best ways to experience these tracks is with a guiding company such as Ultimate Hikes.

Ultimate Hikes also operates guided day walks on the Milford, and Routeburn Tracks. These day walks are specifically designed for those who can't fit the full walks into their holiday.

The company remains the only one permitted to operate multiday guided walks on the Milford, the Routeburn and the Greenstone Tracks (which, combined with the Routeburn Track makes up the Grand Traverse). Ultimate Hikes has put extensive time, effort and investment into upgrading the facilities on the tracks, and we constantly strive to provide a safe and professional guided walk experience with an international reputation, attracting walkers from New Zealand and all over the world.

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Routeburn Track- Miles Holden

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AUCKL AND

EXPLORE NEW ZEALAND WITH THESE GREAT FAMILY WALKS If you’re looking for an authentic Kiwi getaway for the family, one of New Zealand’s family-friendly Great Walks is an excellent way to experience some of the best this country has to offer.

There’s an adventure to suit almost all families and levels of ability.

The Abel Tasman Coast Track, the Rakiura Track on Stewart Island/Rakiura and Lake Waikaremoana in Te Urewera take you through stunning landscapes with easy-going terrain, and water taxi services allow you to drop in and out along the tracks to make a journey as big or small as you like. Choose from short walks, day walks, overnight excursions or tackle a full track over a number of days. Many operators also offer pack transport services, allowing you to experience some of the best scenery in New Zealand without the burden of a heavy pack.

Rakiura Track

Escape the hustle and bustle of the city with an island adventure on the Rakiura Track on Stewart Island/Rakiura. The walk takes you through lush native forest, across isolated beaches and past historic settlement sites. You’ll be accompanied by a cacophony of birdsong as you wander through trees populated with a variety of native birds rarely still seen on the mainland. If you’re lucky, you might hear or even catch a glimpse of the brown kiwi/Rakiura tokoeka in its natural environment. A perfect place to capture some much needed tranquillity, the Rakiura Track is a great family escape any time of year.

Take your family

on a great adventure Get out

&

walk 0800 694 732

greatwalks.co.nz

Abel Tasman Coast Track

If its sun and sand you’re looking for, then the Abel Tasman Coast Track has it covered. Set close to Nelson in the idyllic Abel Tasman National Park, the track crosses some of New Zealand’s best golden sandy beaches and passes through beautiful coastal forest. The neighbouring crystal-clear waters offer a range of activities for the family beyond just walking, including swimming, snorkelling and kayaking.

Lake Waikaremoana

A refuge amongst prehistoric rainforest, the Lake Waikaremoana walk offers a unique experience in Te Urewera, on the East Coast of the North Island. Nestled in dense native bush, the track provides a rare glimpse of New Zealand as it used to be. As you follow the shore of the lake you’ll encounter native birds, giant ancient trees and remote lakeside beaches.

To find out more about these unique journeys, visit greatwalks.co.nz or your local Department of Conservation Visitor Centre.

Maori Beach, Rakiura Track Great Walk.

Photo: Keri Moyle

bird watching

AUC K LAND

Our Unique Birdlife

BY JO MAY

Birds are still some of our most colorful inhabitants and New Zealand is a bird-watchers' paradise.

something special at kiwi north Northland offers so much to her visitors but Kiwi North, in Whangarei, is your ONLY chance for captive kiwi viewing in the entire region.

2 young kiwi from the breeding programme forage happily in the nocturnal house where their natural environment is beautifully replicated. Optimum viewing times are 11am, 1pm and 3pm when kiwi Kapua and Puna are fed and staff are on-hand to tell you all about these unique creatures.

New Zealand’s most famous bird is of course the national emblem, the kiwi. About the size of a domestic hen, it has an extremely long beak and plumage that is more like hair than feathers. Though endangered, the nocturnal kiwi can still be seen in the wild in Northland and on Stewart Island. You can also see kiwi birds at wildlife enclosures throughout the country.

Kiwi North is also home to gecko, a young tuatara, NZ’s living dinosaur, and - taonga and the the Whangarei Museum with beautiful exhibitions and Maori wonderful 1886 Clarke homestead on its original site.

Wander into one of New Zealand’s native forests and you'll hear it ringing with birdsong. The warbling tui, the flittering piwakawaka (fantail) and the large and lumbering kereru (native wood pigeon) are ones to look out for.

The Kiwi House and Museum attractions are all under one roof with full disability access throughout.

There are more than 80 types of seabird that breed along New Zealand’s shores, some that migrate thousands of miles from the other side of the world. At the Royal Albatross Centre at Taiaroa Head you can see the only mainland breeding colony of royal albatross in the world.

A little further south at Nugget Point in Southland, you can see the hoiho (little yellow-eyed penguin) and tītī (sooty shearwater).

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bir d watching

Te Rakau Birding Bird Tours

Bird watching tours are available throughout New Zealand. In the North Island Te Rakau Birding & Cabins offer a personal, customized birding experience. Situated in the beautiful Wairarapa ( 90 minutes’ drive from Wellington) they offer guided half and full day tours plus accommodation.

Another way to get up close and personal with the bird life in New Zealand is with coastal walks. Bream Head Coast Walks offers a three-day package of walking, accommodation and delicious food in the beautiful Whangarei Heads area.

Experience a nature lovers delight as you walk through unspoilt beaches, ancient forest and rocky harbour coves.

Down in the South Island the beautiful French settlement of Akaroa (90 minutes’ drive from Christchurch) you will discover spectacular wildlife. Pohatu Penguins offers unique nature and sea kayak tours to suit your adventure. Pohatu is the largest Australasian Little Penguin colony on mainland New Zealand.

WAIRARAPA’S BI RD I NG TOU R S P ECI A LI STS

Come bird watching with Te Rakau in the most pristine birding environment in New Zealand!

Spectacular scenery, diverse bird population, decades of local knowledge and a total dedication to developing and preserving the habitat – that’s Te Rakau Birding.

Te Rakau Birding offers fully guided half- and full-day bird watching tours for small groups in the Western Lake area of Southern Wairarapa.

Tours can be adapted to suit individual requests but as a guide a half-day tour is approximately 3-4 hours long, will include visits to two sites and a morning or afternoon tea. $100 per person.

Your guides Denise & Dougal MacKenzie have decades worth of local knowledge and a total dedication to preserving this pristine birding environment.

• Taonga Maori – treasured korowai (cloak), jewellry, weapons and tools.

• Changing exhibitions in the Whangarei Museum • Relax and revive in our beautiful grounds.

“ An exceptionally special experience and a privilege for anyone to see”.

Trip Advisor

• Close to quality cafes & only 6ks from city centre.

• Something for everyone in this very special place! Open daily 10am to 4pm, closed 24th & 25th December only.

SEE K I W I H E R E !

Gate 1, 500 SH 14, Maunu, Whangarei, Northland P: 09 4389630

www.kiwinorth.co.nz

www.terakaubirding.co.nz E: info@terakaubirding.co.nz or P: +64 6 3077749

Pohatu Penguins

EXPLORE Northland’s unique natural history and heritage with us.

• Northland’s ONLY captive Kiwi viewing plus Tuatara, Gecko & more.

B O O KIN G S E S S E N TI A L

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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AKAROA / BANKS PENINSULA

Land based Scenic nature safaris including guided walks into the largest Little Penguin colony on mainland New Zealand. The other way to discover Pohatu Marine Reserve. Explore the spectacular coastline on our guided sea kayaking safari. Accommodation options and packages also avaliable.

www.pohatu.co.nz P: 03 304 8542

M: 021 246 9556

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bir d watching

VISIT NEW ZEALAND’S ONLY WHITE HERON NESTING COLONY

How to see them Seasonal, Sept to Feb. White Herons, Royal Spoonbill & an abundance of other birdlife. A unique experience.

Whataroa is the departure point for White Heron Sanctuary Tours. For over 27 years the Arnold Family have been delighting visitors by sharing this world class attraction with them.

Freephone: 0800 523 456 info@whiteherontours.co.nz Accommodation Available

The 2.5 hour tour consists of a short minibus ride to connect with a jet-boat for a gentle 20 minute scenic cruise into the Waitangiroto Nature Reserve (area accessible by boat only).

www.whiteherontours.co.nz

The Mythical White Heron The White Heron (Kotuku) in New Zealand is a very rare and sacred bird. In Māori to see one of these birds just once in a lifetime was considered to be good fortune and to liken someone to a Kotuku was paying them a great compliment.

The only known nesting site for White Herons in New Zealand is on the west coast of the South Island along the banks of the Waitangiroto stream deep within the Waitangiroto Nature Reserve. Access to this area is by guided to tour only. It’s presumed the first White Herons were windblown across the Tasman Sea from Australia. It’s not known why the White Herons have only one nesting site or why it’s in the location it is. This remains a mystery of nature.

The population of White Heron in New Zealand has always been small and limited. The first record of the nesting site was on the 31st of December 1865. Pioneer surveyor Gerhard Mueller came across the colony while exploring the Waitangiroto stream and recorded his findings in a letter home to his wife. He witnessed a population of between 50 and 60 birds.

In the 1930’s and 1940’s White Heron feathers became fashionable in women’s hats. In satisfying a demand for them the colony was almost wiped out. In 1944 just 4 nests were recorded. Following this steps were taken to protect the Herons and the nesting 38

Once in the reserve there is a short walk through ancient Kahikatea rainforest to a purpose built viewing hide to observe the magnificent White Heron (Kotuku) in their natural nesting environment. An exceptional tour with variety, suitable for all age groups.

site and in 1949 the area was declared a Flora and Fauna Nature Reserve. The reserve is now administered by the Department of Conservation.

The White Herons only use the area for breeding so are seen in the reserve over the spring and summer usually mid-September until early March. Over the Autumn and Winter, they disperse widely throughout New Zealand and are generally seen as a single solitary bird. The population of White Heron in New Zealand is around 200, to see one of these birds is a rare and special sight.

To visit their only breeding ground is truly unique.

As the White Herons return to the breeding ground in Spring (September) from their various wintering spots, they transform into their spectacular breeding plumage phase. Long lacy elegant plumes are grown from their back which they display like peacocks. The beak changes colour from yellow to black and around the eyes a bright turquoise blue colour develops. Male and Female look the same, both having plumage. White Herons don’t mate for life.

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n e w z e a l an d ch e e s e

barry's bay cheese

Banks Peninsula is home to Barry’s Bay Cheese, which overlooks pretty Akaroa harbour. They’ve been making cheese using traditional methods and fresh local milk since 1895. Watch cheese making through the viewing window and enjoy samples of their award-winning cheeses. They won Champions of Champions at the NZ Champions of Cheese Awards in 2014 and then won 19 medals at the NZ Champions of Cheese Awards in 2016.

Barry’s Bay Cheese make a range of cheese, primarily rich and creamy traditional English Cheddars and Dutch wheel cheeses, though their silky smooth Danish Havarti is extremely popular, as well as their double-cream Peninsula Blue!

Say CheesE

For further information, please visit www.barrysbaycheese.co.nz

BARRYS BAY CHEESE

Beyond the green pastures, New Zealand's best little cheesemakers will put temptation in your way as you travel the highways and byways discovering how a new generation of artisan food producers are putting old ways back in fashion.

Until the 1920s, New Zealand was dotted with small cheese factories as in the days before refrigeration, the milk could only travel a few kilometres before it spoiled. But, in the past couple of decades that industry has been revived, as a new generation of cheese-makers up and down the country – many of them farmers as well – has started making cheese with all that fabulous milk.

Many of them have farm shops where the welcome is friendly or they are at the local farmer’s markets spread throughout the country. All in all, the cheese is sublime: there may be no better way of touring the country.

GOOD TASTE COMES WITH AGE

From the fertile pastures of Banks Peninsula, we source local milk from grass fed cows to make our handcrafted cheese fresh each day.

Stop in to our factory to watch cheese making and enjoy a complimentary tasting.

For more information, visit www.newzealand.com New Zealand Cheese month Set to return this October, New Zealand Cheese Month gives cheese-loving Kiwi’s and visitors to New Zealand a month-long excuse to purchase, eat and enjoy New Zealand specialty cheese.

New Zealand Cheese Month, which runs from October 1 – 31, is about celebrating the country’s delicious and diverse range of cheeses, trying new cheese, using cheese in a vast range of recipes and discovering new cheese and beverage pairings.

Driven by the New Zealand Specialist Cheese Association (NZSCA), New Zealand Cheese Month is marked throughout the country via various regional and national events, instore promotions, tastings, demos and much more.

5807 Christchurch-Akaroa Road Open 7 days - ph 03 304 5809 www.barrysbaycheese.co.nz

Experience a piece of New Zealand’s agricultural history

For more information and activities for the month around New Zealand wide visit www.nzsca.org.nz/cheese-month/ o u r n e w z e a l a n d.c o. n z

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nz ch e e s e

A touch of Deli in Featherston C’est Cheese is an artisan deli in Featherston specialising in terrific New Zealand-made cheeses. Owner Paul Broughton offers something for every set of taste buds: from cumin-flecked gouda to French-style blues. Among the dozens of delicious wedges on offer you'll find Kingsmeade Artisan Cheese from Masterton, and Cwmglyn (pronounced Coom-glin) farmhouse cheese from Eketahuna. Paul also stocks New Zealand salamis and exquisite local olive oils - in fact, every deli delight you could possibly need for a picnic. The location is perfect for anyone heading to the Wairarapa for the weekend and only 1 hour from Wellington. Open 7 days 10am – 6pm.

C’est Cheese is an out of the ordinary deli based in Featherston, South Wairarapa.

We specialise in New Zealand artisanal cheese and associated product, with over 60 different producers represented instore at any one time.

We also carry cheeses from abroad, all of which are on display in a European inspired setting. With well over 100 different cheeses to choose from, you are sure to find what you are looking for and more!!

C’est Cheese also stocks an extensive range of complimentary deli items making it the perfect place to call in to create your own platter, cheese board or picnic hamper.

We are conveniently located 1 hour from Wellington on State Highway 2 and we’re open 7 days.

19 Fitzherbert Street, Featherston (SH2)

P: +64 6 308 6000

10am - 6pm, 7 days 40

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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

Mount Maunganui

Raglan

Mercury Bay Holiday Park

Pacific Coast Lodge & Backpackers

Raglan Sunset Motel

Centrally located on the eastern side of the Coromandel Peninsula the Mercury Bay Holiday Park is the perfect base for families. They offer quality camping and accommodation options and great facilities.

Located by the beautiful shores of Mount Maunganui Beach, offering affordable accommodation for one night stays or weekly boarders looking for work.

Located less than 100 metres from the town centre and harbour.

Only 400m from Whitianga town centre and within easy reach to Hotwater Beach, Cathedral Cove, New Chums Beach and Coromandel town. Park your campervan, caravan or pitch your tent, and book one of their fabulous accommodation options including kitchen units, family units, cabins and chalets.

They're only 2.5 hrs drive from Auckland, Hamilton and Tauranga. www.mercurybayholidaypark.co.nz

The perfect Mt Maunganui and Tauranga backpackers accommodation from where to base yourself.

The motel features 24 units offering a range of accommodation, studio units for singles or couples, family studios for up to 5 people an executive unit and a 2 Bedroom self contained apartment for up to 8 people. All units have bar fridge, microwave, electric fry-pan, toaster and tea / coffee making facilities. The family studios have a well equipped kitchenette with sink, and the self contained apartment has a fully equipped kitchen with fridge freezer. A communal kitchen and BBQ are available to all guests. In addition to accommodation units the motel has a fully equipped conference venue with licensed bar.

www.pacificcoastlodge.co.nz

www.raglansunsetmotel.co.nz

Offering straightforward 4- to 10-person dorms that feature free Wi-Fi and linens, plus bunk beds and shared bathrooms.

Private rooms have sinks and access to separate shared bathrooms.

Parking, bikes and surfboards are complimentary. Guest areas include a communal kitchen, a TV lounge and a game room, plus a coin-operated laundry and a courtyard with a BBQ grill.

No place you’d rather be.

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

We’ve got it all: The beach, the surf & the sun!

FREE surfboards FREE bikes FREE onsite parking Huge common area & games room Weekly Rates Available Bus, ferry & tour bookings Assistance with seasonal work all year round.

432 Maunganui Rd, Mount Maunganui, 3116 Freephone: 0800 66 66 22

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

RAGLAN SUNSET MOTEL, located in downtown Raglan is just a few minutes’ walk from the harbour, retail shops, cafes and restaurants. We offer a range of accommodation from single studio rooms, family kitchenette studios and 2 bedroom apartments.

With complimentary laundry facilities and unlimited FREE Internet. All rooms have a private balcony or direct access to our large communal courtyard which has outdoor furniture and BBQ facilities and Spa Pool. Fully equipped function room suitable for weddings, special events and Conferences.

7 BANKART STREET, RAGLAN P: +64 7 8250050 E: INFO@RAGLANSUNSETMOTEL.CO.NZ

WWW.RAGLANSUNSETMOTEL.CO.NZ

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STAY

Our Spring Accommodation Picks

AC C O M M ODAT I O N P I C K S

Taupo

Ruapehu

Napier

Acapulco Motor Inn

The Park Hotel

Ballina Motel

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

The 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.

One of Hawke's Bay's newest luxury airconditioned motels in Napier.

The affordable and comfortable rooms include a wide range of facilities to make your stay as comfortable as possible.

They have a range of motel accommodation to suit you, your family or friends, from a large two bedroom unit which can sleep up to 7 people, two bedroom family units with spa baths, luxury whirlpool units, and our standard studio units for two.

It is the newest accommodation provider in National Park, and facilities include a fantastic Spiral Railway themed bar, restaurant, self catering kitchen, guest TV lounge, dining area, large open fireplaces, spa pools, wireless internet and much more.

All their spacious rooms are airconditioned 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 which is why they provide FREE unlimited wired or wireless (WIFI) internet.

They offer FREE wireless internet and have Qualmark 4-Star rating.

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.

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. They are within easy walking distance of the cafes, restaurants, bars, and the main shopping centre of Taradale.

www.acapulcotaupo.co.nz

www.the-park.co.nz

www.ballinamotel.co.nz

ON THE DOORSTEP OF MT RUAPEHU

Just minutes walk from Lake Taupo and the town centre, Acapulco Motor

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.

Inn offers a large selection of air-conditioned rooms with free Wi-Fi, LCD TV and a DVD player. Also a hot

16 luxury rooms Airconditioned FREE Unlimited Internet Quiet central location 50+ SKY channels Close to all Hawke’s Bay attractions

tub and BBQ area.

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

www.acapulcotaupo.co.nz 42

Cnr SH4 & Millar St, National Park Village

e: bookings@the-park.co.nz 07 8922748 or 0800 800 491 o u r n e w z e a l a n d.c o. n z

www.ballinamotel.co.nz 393 Gloucester Street Taradale, Napier Reservations: 0508 22 55 42

AC C O M M ODAT I O N P I C K S

Wellington

Christchurch

Grand Mercure Wellington Central City

Arcadia Motel

Chardonnay Motor Lodge

The Grand Mercure Wellington Central City Apartment Hotel in Wellington is where their sole focus is on you!

Arcadia Motel is located just 4km, a 10-minute drive, from the Christchurch City Centre in a spacious park setting in historical Woolston, on the banks of the Heathcote River.

A Christchurch Motel, Chardonnay Motor Lodge is a 4 Star modern motel complex set in spacious grounds with spectacular gardens.

Each of their 54 self contained & serviced rooms offer warmth and personal service and is the ideal location for business and leisure, at an unbeatable address. They offer 24/7 Hotel Reception, providing a safe & secure environment.

They are central to The Terrace business district and handy to Lambton Quay and Willis Street shopping mile. The hotel is close to many restaurants, theatres, Courtenay Place and Wellington's entertainment district.

Grand Mercure Wellington Central City Apartment Hotel offers a continental breakfast to your room or apartment for you to enjoy before starting the day. www.centralcityhotel.co.nz

Situated halfway between the city centre, Cashmere, Lyttelton and Sumner Beach, it doesn't get any more convenient.

They offer studio, 1 and 2-bedroom expansive well appointed rooms in a quiet and relaxed setting. They are childfriendly, pet-friendly and motorcyclefriendly all at very affordable rates and all guests enjoy unlimited wi-fi.

The Arcadia Motel has very spacious grounds with extensive secure parking facilities available. They are able to accommodate a wide range of vehicles including trucks, boats, mobile homes, trailers and caravans. www.arcadiamotel.co.nz

Close to Christchurch airport [8km - 8 mins] and only 15 minutes from Christchurch City Centre. They have nine studio units include free wireless internet in every room and also offer a two-storey, 3 bedroom stand alone townhouse (min 2 night stay).

Their facilities offer guest laundry, guest barbecue, petanque, children’s playground with trampoline and push bikes for all ages. Adjacent to Rosebank Winery & Café which is open 7 days from 9am and dinners Wednesday to Saturday.

Chardonnay Motor Lodge Christchurch is the ultimate accommodation in a rural setting. www.chardonnaymotorlodge.co.nz

CHRISTCHURCH S

TE RA

OM FR

$

110

. On north/south bypass. Airport 8min, city 15min . 13 sunny ground floor studio and 1 brm units

ARCADIA MOTEL

. 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 & Antartic Centre

ARCADIA MOTEL OFFERS YOU: • Spacious and tranquil park setting with ample parking • Units with full kitchens • Units with baths and showers

• Family sized units

. Guest BBQ, children’s playground, trampoline, Petanque . Winner of 2015 Community Pride Garden Award

• Disabled access unit • Free internet available • Pet friendly motel

Loads of Campervan parking

Se

TARIFF FROM $120 as

FREEPHONE 0800 272 2342 visit our website for more information:

www.primehotels.co.nz

564 Ferry Rd, Woolston, ChCh E: info@arcadiamotel.co.nz www.arcadiamotel.co.nz o u r n e w z e a l a n d.c o. n z

on

ly

LOCATED IN THE HEART OF WELLINGTON’S CBD THIS IS QUALITY ACCOMMODATION AT AN AFFORDABLE PRICE

Comfortable, spacious affordable accommodation

. Plus standalone, 3 bedroom, fully equipped townhouse with dishwasher, full size fridge/ freezer, own laundry, 2 toilets (sleeps 8)

p a l ra t e s a

p

170 Johns Road, Christchurch P: 03 323 8224 / Reservations: 0800 468 444 E: chardonnay@xtra.co.nz

www.chardonnaymotorlodge.co.nz 43

acc o mm o dati o n picks

New Yard Bar & Eatery at Adina Apartment Hotel Britomart Adina Apartment Hotel Auckland, Britomart has a new drink and dine offering, Yard Bar & Eatery, just a short stroll from the city’s waterfront and perfect for a pre or post-concert drink and snack at the city’s top entertainment venue, Vector Arena, just opposite.

The hotel opened in November 2015 and has 140 modern apartments. Typical of all Adina Apartment Hotels, the hotel offers spacious apartment living with the benefit of hotel services such as 24-hour reception and room service. Contemporary living and working spaces encourage guests to “live like a local” in studios with kitchenettes or in one and two-bedroom apartments with fully-equipped kitchens and laundries.

This makes it perfect for exploring the city’s star attractions—the sparkling Viaduct, Wynyard Quarter and Britomart – with a glass of wine or cocktail at Yard Bar & Eatery to start the night.

The evening experience is relaxed, welcoming and vibrant, offering a wine bar experience in Britomart with knowledgeable hosts who provide a touch of sophistication. Local craft beers, ciders and wines are offered alongside the best international selections.

Yard Bar & Eatery is an urban café by day and a city bar and bistro by night. While the café experience is relaxed, the coffee culture and commitment to quality produce is strong.

The menu includes plenty of local produce, treated with simplicity and authenticity in mind, including specialty pizzas such as Italian meatball or Cajun chicken and classics such as quality steaks alongside innovative and changing small plates.

Local artisan breads feature in daily rolls, handmade gourmet pies, healthy salad options, fresh juices and smoothies to enjoy in-house or takeaway.

Come in for a delicious buttermilk fried chicken burger, New Zealand snapper and chips, a cheese board or Provedore’s plate with charcuterie.

from

FREE ** $ 119 WiFi per night

Travel to Unravel 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 to receive complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi for the duration of your stay.*

FREE FREE** Wi-Fi WiFi Call now 02 4 499 9911 or email wellington@travelodge.co.nz *Terms and conditions apply. Available on new bookings only.

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Wellington

NORTHL AND

The Kauri Coast

There is so much to experience and enjoy during your stay on the Kauri Coast region of Northland.

The Kauri Museum

Transport yourself back to a time of mighty Kauri forests and hardy pioneers. Experience bygone days in a whole new way at this award winning museum. Alongside vast timber slabs and logs harvested from the ancient forest you will find the largest collection of kauri gum in the world.

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

Ask the experts – we are here to help with all your travel requirements. Free advice, maps, guides and booking service for accommodation, tours, coach, ferries etc. Collect discount vouchers.

4 Murdoch St on SH12, Dargaville P: 09 439 4975 E: kauriinfo@xtra.co.nz

www.kaurimuseum.com

Aratapu Tavern & Hotel

Ideally located only 6 kms south of Dargaville.

Enjoy our warm & cosy fireplace in winter and our Garden Bar in summers. Full service restaurant & Bar. Tuesday to Sunday 12:00noon till late.

TV/DVD lounge room, child friendly DVDS. 6kms south of Dargaville on Pouto Road P: 09 439 5923

Dargaville and Kauri Coast Visitor Centre

Baylys Beach Holiday Park

Explore the west coast. Accommodation to fit all budgets, tent & power sites, ensuite cabins & cottages. Handy to beach, golf course, cafes.

Quad bike hire, fishing, surfing, horse riding.

24 Seaview Rd, Baylys Beach P: 09 439 6349 or 0800 229597 E: motorcamp@baylysbeach.co.nz

www.baylysbeach.co.nz

Travel only 1 ½ hours north-west of Auckland on the Twin Coast Discovery Highway turn left off State Highway 1 at the Brynderwyn junction on to State Highway 12 and you can start your Kauri Coast adventure.

A must visit has to be at the award winning The Kauri Museum at Matakohe – allow at least 2 hours. In the Smith Wing see the real equipment used for felling kauri trees, the blacksmith’s workshop and other displays.

Dargaville is approx. 45 minutes north of Matakohe and enroute you will see the pointed peak of Tokatoka, a 20 minutes climb and the more rounded peak of Maungaraho a 45 minutes more challenging climb.

On arrival in Dargaville make the Dargaville and Kauri Coast Visitor Information Centre your first stop – pick up a town map, ask about what to see, where to stay, tours to do and get information on any special events. Pick up some discount vouchers, free maps, guides etc.

Visit Rick Taylor’s studio and marvel at the stunning Ancient Kauri bowls, platters, hollow pots, pens, clocks and more.

Woodturning tuition, tools, blanks also available. Touch, smell & experience the best Ancient Kauri in New Zealand.

4 Murdoch St on State Highway 12, Dargaville P: 09 439 4975 E: kauri4u@xtra.co.nz

www.kauriinfocentre.co.nz

Kauri Forests, fresh waters lakes, thousands of acres of sand dunes, coastlines both inner and outer harbour, world class artists, stunning scenery, volcanic peaks to climb, adventures to have.

The Woodturners Studio

www.thewoodturnersstudio.co.nz

Kai Iwi Lakes Taharoa Domain

Crystal clear blue water, golden sand, swimming, fishing, boating, sailing. Your dream holiday? You can have it - no expensive airfares, just a beautiful 35 ks drive from Dargaville along Northland’s Kauri Coast.

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

www.kaiiwicamp.nz

Adjacent to the Visitor Information Centre is the studio of world famous wood turner Rick Taylor, The Woodturners Kauri Gallery and Studio and the Dargaville Parkover. Top quality ancient kauri bowls, platters and hollow forms turned from the amazing Ancient Kauri wood.

A great place for a meal is the Aratapu Tavern – just a 10 minute drive from Dargaville down Pouto Road. Try the lamb shanks – we can highly recommend these, or their tasty meat pies. A great place to meet up with the locals. Take a drive out to Glinks Gully which is part of the vast Ripiro Beach coastline.

Consider staying at Baylys Beach Motor Camp – they have accommodation to suit all budgets, from tent sites through to cottages. Hire a quad bike from the motor camp and explore the beach and maybe catch a fish for your dinner.

The crystal clear waters of the Kai Iwi Lakes at Taharoa Domain are very popular both for day trippers and campers. Tent sites and RV motorhome/campervan sites are available year round.

A walking track around the lake – takes approximately 1 ½ hours and you can also walk from the lakes to the coastline of Ripiro Beach.

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

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

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HAMILTON/WAIKATO

H A M I LTO N / WA I K ATO

The Diverse Waikato

BY JO MAY

Hamilton Gardens

Spring is the perfect time to explore the Hamilton & Waikato region of New Zealand. With a large variety of outdoor activities, coupled with inner city comforts and a wealth of great events, this region has plenty to offer.

The region’s main city of Hamilton provides the perfect hub from which to base yourself while exploring the region and wider central North Island. Top dining and entertainment options such as those found at the southern end of the CBD, provide the ideal way to end an eventful day in the great outdoors. Not to mention artisan producers, micro-breweries and farmers markets that can also be found throughout the region, for those foodies among us.

A visit to the Classics Museum situated in Hamilton is definitely a blast from the past. Their collection encompasses a range of interests including cars and an extensive collection of petrol memorabilia, pin ball machines and early toys. There is something Classic for the whole family, including the Jukebox Diner, a 1950’s themed diner.

Walking and hiking trails abound in the Hamilton & Waikato region - from stunning waterfalls to mountain top views and picturesque waterways.

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Take an easy stroll to the spectacular Bridal Veil Falls near Raglan, or opt for a more challenging hike to the Wairere Falls near Matamata. The Blue Spring at the Te Waihou walkway near Putaruru provides around 70% of NZ’s bottled water and is a beautiful walk, while those looking for some peaceful bird watching can check out Sanctuary Mountain Maungatautari. A haven for native wildlife, the southern enclose includes a canopy tower and clearing, providing ample opportunity to catch some of the antics of the friendly Kaka and other birdlife in the specially designed, predator-proofed environment.

With three of the NZ Great Rides in the Hamilton & Waikato region, plus a variety of supporting trails and mountain bike tracks, cycling enthusiasts are spoilt for choice. Enjoy a family ride along the Te Awa – The Great NZ River Ride trail, or add a little more adventure on the varying graded sections of the 100km long Waikato River Trails, both of which provide great views of the mighty Waikato River. Take in some gold mining history along the Hauraki Rail Trail, with the added option of

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

H A M I LTO N / WA I K ATO

a relaxing hot soda mineral spa in Te Aroha to sooth those aching muscles, or follow the bush tramway of the Timber Trail as your ride through ancient native forest south of Waitomo.

Hamilton Gardens

There are also plenty of great attractions to fit in between the outdoor adventures. Visit Hobbiton™ Movie Set with Hobbiton Movie Set and Farm Tours and take a two-hour tour past many welcoming-looking Hobbit holes. These include the famous Bag-end, across the famous party field, past The Mill and over the bridge to The Green Dragon Inn, where exclusive refreshing Hobbiton brews await. Perhaps meandering through the award winning Hamilton Gardens is on the agenda. With over 18 stunningly themed gardens that explore the context, history and meaning of gardens through time, including New Zealand’s first traditional Māori Garden, Te Parapara, it’s easy to while away an afternoon.

Those looking for a more adrenalin-fuelled adventure are spoilt for choice in the Waitomo Caves. Abseil 100m down into the Lost World cave or try black water rafting through the underground passageways with Waitomo Adventures. For an equally enjoyable walking tour, the Waitomo Glowworm Caves provides a spectacular sight as you take a boat ride under thousands of twinkling glowworms, and hear all about the history and geology of the caves in the area.

A geographically and culturally diverse region, Hamilton & Waikato has a range of activities and attractions to suit all ages and tastes.

Waitomo Caves. Photo: Corin Walker Bain

Visit www.hamiltonwaikato.com for more information.

CLASSIC CARS & VINTAGE COLLECTABLES

1950’s

1 1 RA IL S ID E PL H A M IL TO N ( 0 7 )9 5 7 2 2 3 0 O PE N7 D A Y S

on site

www.classicsmuseum.co.nz

Diner

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

M o n F r i 8 3 Sa t + Su n 9 4

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ROTORUA

Rotorua

An all year destination!

Rotorua is known as the birth place of New Zealand tourism. With M-aori culture, pristine lakes, fertile forests and activities and attractions a plenty, come and experience everything that this magical region has to offer. Rotorua offers a holiday destination for people on all budgets and is easily accessible by land and air being conveniently located in the central North Island.

Whether you’re after an adrenaline rush, something more relaxing or looking to discover the marvels of this geothermal utopia, you are sure to have an unforgettable experience in Rotorua. With activities and tours that suit all comers this really is the perfect family, couple or mates getaway destination.

Rotorua's thermal attractions are the perfect place to visit this Spring. As the natural spa capital of New Zealand, there is no better place to come and unwind than Rotorua.

Decreed one of only six gold level ride centres in the world, Rotorua has world-class mountain biking trails and facilities.

Whether you are a first timer looking to enjoy a peaceful ride in nature or a hard core enthusiast, we have the perfect trail waiting for you to discover.

If you love New Zealand’s native forests, then Rotorua is definitely for you. You can hike through untouched, virgin rainforest, get a bird’s eye view up in the canopy, head off-road on a 4WD adventure or zip line through native New Zealand forest.

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Rotorua’s pristine lakes provide your perfect playground. Trout season kicks off from October or for a faster pace experience a jetboat joyride or find a boat and throw out the ski rope. You don’t have to be active though as there are plenty of spots to relax and unwind lakeside with a picnic.

- culture in NZ offering genuine Rotorua is the centre of Maori warmth of welcome and manaakitanga (hospitality), something - have been providing visitors to the that the Te Arawa Maori Rotorua region for well over 150 years. Whether it’s an encounter - guide, a hongi greeting, talking to a carver or weaver, with a Maori experiencing a hangi (food cooked in an earth oven), facing a haka or hearing age old stories, visitors will be enriched by their Maori cultural experience.

We think that it’s the best place to holiday in the country, so whether you’re here for a weekend or have over a week, we know you will love your time in Rotorua, New Zealand’s coolest hot spot.

Visit RotoruaNZ.com to find out more.

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

AUCKL AND

Simply Stunning South Taranaki Sitting between Mount Taranaki’s majestic cone and the Tasman Sea stretches the stunning district that is South Taranaki.

From climbing to the top of Hawera’s historic water tower, ascending Mount Taranaki’s famous peak, surfing on some of the best breaks New Zealand has to offer, or spotting Kiwi at Lake Rotokare Scenic Reserve – South Taranaki offers an experience like no other.

South Taranaki is a district steeped in history. From Turuturu Mokai – the scene of bloody battles and beheadings - to Parihaka Pa, a symbol of peace and passive resistance around the world … South Taranaki has it all. Much of this rich past is vividly brought to life at Tawhiti Museum. Widely acclaimed as the best private museum in New Zealand, Tawhiti offers an impressive visual history of Taranaki’s tumultuous and often bloody past. And when it comes to stories about South Taranaki’s rich culture and history you can’t go past the district museum, Aotea Utanganui in Patea.

With a rugged coastline stretching from Okato in the north to the Waitotara River in the south, the district is made up of a number of thriving communities.

Hawera is the main centre and largest town in South Taranaki.

With a vibrant community of approximately 11,000 it is home to many of the district’s key industries including one of the largest dairy factories in the world.

As you drive around Surf Highway 45 – the coast road from Hawera to New Plymouth – you’ll pass dozens of world class surf breaks, fabulous beaches, cafes, craft shops and other attractions which make this a fantastic scenic drive even if you’re not inclined to paddle out. On Surf Highway 45 the laid-back coastal town of Opunake is a popular hub for surfers and holiday makers seeking a relaxing destination. Other settlements in the district include Eltham, Kaponga, Manaia, Normanby, Patea and Waverley.

In South Taranaki everything is at your doorstep – the mountain and the sea are only a stone’s throw apart. Whether it’s magnificent coastline; the perfect volcanic cone of Mount Taranaki; tramping in Egmont National Park; clean, clear rivers and lakes; or countless sites of historic and cultural interest that you are after, South Taranaki is the perfect destination.

For more information check out www.southtaranaki.com or contact the South Taranaki i-SITE Visitor Centre, 55 High St, Hawera; Phone (06) 278 8599 How to get to South Taranaki South Taranaki (State Highway 3) is centrally located less than an hour away from New Plymouth to the north or Whanganui to the south. Or take a scenic drive just 3½ hours from Wellington or 4½ hours from Auckland and let the stunning Mount Taranaki be your guide once you reach our beautiful region.

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S OU T H TA R A N A K I

Traders & Whalers

It can be quite a mission convincing today’s children that Taranaki has not always been cows, boxthorn hedges and skinny tar-sealed roads. To sell a story of ships, traders and muskets is like the stuff of fiction in their eyes. And yet it is exactly these stories, which Nigel Ogle at the Tawhiti Museum, just outside Hawera, has chosen to tell in a most remarkable and innovative historical presentation.

‘Traders & Whalers’ was two years in the planning and over two years building.

Illuminated only by the twinkling of lanterns and candles, guest are taken by boat through this dark and eerie world, where distant birds call and water drips from mossy banks as burly sailors barter with local Māori for pork, potatoes and flax in return for that most sought after item – the flintlock musket.

With Ogle’s sculpting and modeling skills already well honed in the main museum displays – including one which includes over 800 figures – he now finds a new level of creativity in ‘Traders & Whalers’. His life size figures, beautifully crafted period artifacts and scale models reach a new level in this totally convincing lush bush, rocky coastal and dark river environment.

As museums world wide seek new and original ways of delivering history to their audiences, ‘Traders & Whalers’ has stepped up to the mark and in typically Kiwi style produced an absolutely world class attraction, which punches well above its weight. The attention to detail in this, and all the other displays at Tawhiti, is simply incredible and it is certainly clear that Ogle has a very special affection for his project.

A stunning new attraction at the Tawhiti Museum - Traders & Whalers - an exciting underground boat ride into Taranaki’s past.

Hawera

Traders & Whalers is a great addition to the original museum displays which include hundreds of lifesize and scale figures bringing Taranaki history alive.

Trip Advisor rates Tawhiti Museum as one of New Zealand’s top three museums.

Open every Friday, Saturday, Sunday, Monday 10am – 4pm Summer Season: Open every day from Boxing Day to end of January.

Winter Season: (June, July, August) Open Sundays only. C 401 Ohangai Road, Hawera. Phone (06) 278 6837 museum website: www.tawhitimuseum.co.nz traders & whalers website: www.tradersandwhalers.co.nz email: info@tawhitimuseum.co.nz

afe

on s ite!

51

RUAPEHU

Welcome to Ruapehu

By Jo May

Mt Ruapehu does indeed boast New Zealand's largest ski area with Whakapapa and Turoa ski areas, and the season is well known as the longest in New Zealand, with September and October often providing excellent Spring skiing.

Along with the added bonus of snow activities, there is a wide range of outdoor activities on offer at the foot of the mountain.

The region is home to two National Parks, with dual World Heritage Tongariro National Park to the east and the lush Whanganui National Park to the west. Catch the Northern Explorer train to National Park Village and explore the tussocked plains and volcanic landscapes of Tongariro National Park, with the world's best one day walk - the Tongariro Alpine Crossing - and many other walks and hikes for people of all abilities.

National Park Village is a great base for cycle trails such as the legendary 42 Traverse, or historical Ohakune Old Coach Road.

30 minutes North of National Park Village is Taumarunui, gateway to the Forgotten World Highway, and Timber Trail Cycleway. Keeping the train theme you can choose a railbike or railcar and travel along miles of disused railway, reliving some of the spectacular rail history of the area or visit the local Railway Museum in town. The Timber Trail covers off the timber and forestry history of the region, with a healthy dose of mind-blowing scenery.

Taumarunui is also the starting point for Department of Conservation Great Walk "The Whanganui Journey" - the only one of the nine National walks that involves paddling down a river, rather than hiking on land.

Stay on the train and head South to Ohakune which is a good spot to access the Whanganui River and National Park. Join a tour to the Bridge to Nowhere, a 55 minute jetboat trip to the Mangapurua Landing, followed by a 40 minute easy bush walk to the mysterious concrete structure located quite literally in the middle of nowhere!

The 'Bridge to Nowhere' is the largest and most intact structure relating to the former Mangapurua Valley Soldiers Settlement and has an Historic Places Trust Category I listing.

One of Ohakune's beautiful antiques, the Ohakune Old Coach Road, is an old winding trail travelling through time, and is another important and beloved piece of New Zealand's rail history. www.Visitruapehu.com

Mountains to Sea Cycle Trail, from our National Parks to the Tasman Sea.

Whanganui 0800 92 64 26

info@whanganuinz.com

www.mountainstosea.co.nz 52

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

Ruapehu 06 385 8427

ohakune@i-SITE.org

Whanganui is big enough to entertain and small enough to keep it real.

Enjoy arts, music, the landscape and our rich heritage.

Spend a weekend.

TAKE A

NEW LOOK

AUCKL AND

whanganui

whangan u i

Visit a welcoming Whanganui You may be surprised to know Whanganui was recently rated one of New Zealand’s Top 10 Destinations by Experience Oz & NZ, a leading online travel booking site highlighting the best of regions. For those of us that live and play here this is no real surprise at all.

For decades Whanganui has been one of the North Island’s adventure playgrounds for all sorts of activity given the climate, the beaches (yes, we have 3 and are a coastal city), the wonderful Whanganui River and the Whanganui National Park. Whanganui residents enjoy a temperate climate with mean temperatures of 9.4°C in winter and 18.2°C in summer with an average 2100 hours of sunshine per annum – slightly above the national average.

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 54

Whanganui is also very central and easily accessible for most – within 3 hours drive for the lower North Island from most cities and an hour flight from Auckland. It’s actually quicker to drive from Auckland to Wellington via Ohakune and Whanganui than it is to travel down SH1.

From Pipiriki it is an 87 km ride to the coast and well worth the experience. The road is abundant with history and early Māori and European culture alongside the most navigable river in the country. Don’t pass Jerusalem (Hiruhārama) without stopping – Suzanne Aubert, better known as Mother Mary Joseph, established the congregation of the Sisters of Compassion in 1892 and the Foundling Home in 1886 which housed and cared for abandoned children from around New Zealand at that time. The convent and Sisters of Compassion still reside there and guests are welcome to visit the grounds and church.

Visit the atmospheric and beautiful Ranana marae (always ask permission first) and the Kawana Flour Mill. The mill was constructed in 1854 and now shows the original waterwheel and grinding stones. Matahiwi is the next stop, where a building was transported by riverboat in o u r n e w z e a l a n d.c o. n z

whangan u i

1923 to be used as the local school for many years. Today it is a café and gallery open to visitors and you’ll also see the old riverboat, the “Riverboat Queen” used in the movie of the same name.

Koriniti Marae is off the main road and another stunning marae featuring two traditional wharenui (meeting houses). Further highlights include Ātene, shell rock cliffs that were once sea bed featuring layers of fossilised oyster shells and at the height of the climb before descending to the river once again, is the Aramoana Viewpoint with river valley views. This might be the first of your mountain views as Mount Ruapehu sits on the skyline and the second, Mount Taranaki, you may see at the North Mole located at the edge of the Tasman Sea. So, our Top 10 rating is not surprising to us at all. One of New Zealand’s earliest towns to be established, the first settlers both Māori and European recognised the bounty and accessibility of the area for regular trade and a lifestyle many had never envisioned before.

A cruise aboard the iconic Waimarie Paddle Steamer is undoubtedly one of the most authentic ways to experience Whanganui River’s scenery and history.

Salvaged from the bottom of the Whanganui River where she sat for around 50 years, the Waimarie Paddle Steamer was restored to her former glory and re-launched in 2000 to make her New Zealand’s only authentic coal-fired paddle steamer in operation. Our scheduled and private Waimarie Paddle Steamer cruises, together with our Waimarie Museum, make us an iconic symbol of the River City and a significant attraction for locals and visitors.

Whanganui River Canoes for your next adventure on this majestic river.

We offer a range of trips, from freedom hire to fully catered. We have the best equipment and guides on the Whanganui River.

In conducting the consumer survey, which ran for one month, “Experience Oz” received close to 7000 votes from a mixed audience of New Zealand, Australian and international respondents. Poll participants were asked to consider among other factors, the typical “New Zealand”style nature of the destination, its unique natural highlights, the area’s cultural, historic and architectural features, the variety of activities on offer, whether it was over-commercialised, and if it was simply considered objectively “beautiful”.

So, if you haven’t been to Whanganui, don’t you think it’s time to plan a visit?

Our base is the Raetihi Holiday Park and we would love to welcome you for your stay in the Whanganui/Ruapehu Region.

We are in the perfect spot, halfway between Auckland and Wellington, and close to the train station in Ohakune.

We offer cabin accommodation, powered sites and tent sites, with lovely communal facilities.

Book with us now for your stay in Summer, and at the same time we can book you for you our Whanganui River Canoe trips, jet boating on the Whanganui, Mountain Biking, or stay with us before and after your hike on Tongariro. We offer multiple shuttles to many of the adventures in area - right from our door!

Stay here in Winter: We are right next to the ski fields of Ruapehu and you might even get the chance to make snowmen on site!

BOOKINGS ARE ESSENTIAL.

P. 0800 40 88 88 | E. info@whanganuirivercanoes.co.nz

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THE GIANTS ARE COMING… DINO-PRESSTe Manawa will soon hatch its biggest exhibition yet, with the London Natural History Museum’s Dinosaur Encounter arriving in Palmerston North.

Discover Palmerston North & the Manawatu Discover a real kiwi experience in Palmerston North City & Manawatu.

Whether you like to explore the great outdoors, admire the beauty of artwork, or devour a perfectly brewed coffee, the Manawatu is ready to show what it’s made of. Feel the wind in your hair on the west coast beaches, or take shelter in the stunning ancient native bush of Te Apiti – Manawatu Gorge. You can hit the ground running on one of the many cycling, mountain biking or walking tracks, and even the most avid adrenaline junkie will be satisfied with bungee jumping, white water rafting and kite surfing on offer.

For the cultured among us, the region is dotted with galleries and historical collections waiting to be discovered and explored, while country pubs, boutique shops and farmstays offer a relaxed day of meandering and meeting the locals.

So, what are you waiting for? Come and discover the playground of Manawatu. www.ManawatuNZ.co.nz 56

Featuring nine moving dinosaur models brought to life by state-of-the-art animatronics, Dinosaur Encounter will give visitors a thrilling glimpse into life on earth as it was seventy million years ago.

It is the first time the exhibition has been shown in the Southern Hemisphere.

A massive Tyrannosaurus Rex stands as the 4.5m-tall centrepiece of Dinosaur Encounter, and will be joined by other well-known creatures such as Triceratops, Ankylosaurus and Ornithomimus.

The gallery will be transformed into a familiar ‘urban jungle’ through which these mighty guests will rampage, while reproductions of skeletons, skulls and fossil remains will add breadth to the experience.

The exhibition has been developed by the Natural History Museum in London, where designers and scientists worked closely together to create an unprecedented level of realism.

Te Manawa will be the exclusive North Island venue for Dinosaur Encounter.

Dinosaur Encounter will open on 24 September and runs until 26 February 2017.

Visitor Information

About Te Manawa

Exhibition charges apply, visit www. temanawa.co.nz

Te Manawa – a museum without boundaries

Children must be supervised by an adult. Please note that younger children may find some of the larger models frightening.

At the cultural heart of Palmerston North Te Manawa draws art, science and history together, recognising the uniqueness of each area and reflecting our growing region and its people.

Location Te Manawa, 326 Main Street, Palmerston North Opening times 10am-5pm each day except Thursday which is 10am- 7.30pm.

AUCKL AND

DINE

Capital EATS

BY JO MAY

Muse on Allen. Photo: WellingtonNZ.com

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Discover Wellington’s vibrant food scene this Spring

dine

Follow your nose and your stomach in Wellington and discover the best cuisine New Zealand has to offer.

Wellington is said to have more bars & restaurants per capita than New York and the city has taken many of the county’s cuisine prizes.

The Waterfront

As you’d expect from a city wrapped around a harbour, seafood is a feature and you’ll find world-class quality around the waterfront.

Try The Crab Shack at Shed 5, Queen's Wharf or the Ortega Fish Shack & Bar in Majoribanks Street.

Abuzz with restaurants, cafés and delicatessens, Wellington is a city that takes pride in its gastronomic reputation. Here, you’ll find freshly roasted coffee, acclaimed regional wines, deliciously fresh seafood and cultural cuisine, all with a strong focus on local ingredients. Whether it's cheap eats, authentic Asian cuisine or modern New Zealand you are after, you will find it all here. Here are some places to start your Capital flavor.

Courtenay Place

The theatre and party district of Courtenay Place is always adding to its gastronomic game. Enjoy Ancestral and Dragonfly or classics such as Capitol and The Tasting Room Cuba Street

New Zealand's coolest street also happens to be a culinary hotspot. Must eats include past Cuisine Restaurant of the Year winners Logan Brown and Matterhorn. Cuba is also home to some of Wellington’s best BYOs and ethnic eateries.

Miramar

There are dozens of delectable eateries on the city fringe in Wellington’s film-making hub, Miramar. Head for the hills for a taste of the suburbs and try tongue to tail eating at The Larder.

Head back in time and experience 1930s glamour at Coco at The Roxy, or spice up your life with Mexican flavours at La Boca Loca.

MariLuca Ristoro MariLuca Ristoro Italian restaurant , in the heart of historical Thorndon, offers personalized service in a warm homey atmosphere, where the emphasis is on excellent food.

MariLuca take great pride in creating artisan Italian food using the finest local ingredients. They source out olive oils, olives, pasta, condiments, Gelato and wines to provide the most authentic Italian culinary experience possible. When visiting MariLuca try their signature dish Veal Saltimbocca a'la Romana and Pappardelle con Antara “braised duck pasta” or choose one of their specials like lasagna, whitebait with tagliolini and venison Osso Bucco.

Jeoffrey Bisa, the Head Chef and owner has over 15 years’ culinary experience with Italian cuisine having cooked on Italian cruise lines, Costa Crociere and Maria Pia’s Trattoria. Jeoffrey makes sure each and every dish that goes out of the kitchen must be superior.

Lunch: Tuesday to Friday from 11.30am Dinner: Monday to Saturday from 5.30pm

MariLuca Ristoro will welcome you through their doors and show you a taste of Italy. The restaurant can cater for small private groups and also has a separate function room. Whether it’s a dinner for two, business lunch or celebrating a special occasion MariLuca Ristoro is a great place to dine.

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55-57 Mulgrave Street, Thorndon, Wellington T: 04 499-5590 E: mail@mariluca.co.nz www.mariluca.co.nz

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Coene’s Wellington WATERFRONT

MUNCHEN Wellington WATERFRONT

Coene’s boasts probably the best views on Wellington’s waterfront.

Perched above the Royal Port Nicholson Yacht club, Coene’s is a nautical-chic venue serving creative, amazing international comfort food & craft cocktails.

Munchen, is Wellington’s first and only authentic Bavarian Beer house. located on Queen’s Wharf right in the heart of Wellington’s iconic waterfront.

At just over a year old this refurbished venue is a wonderful place to take in breakfast, lunch or dinner and soak up the spectacular views across Wellington Harbour. Catering for small or large groups Coenes is a great place to witness everything that is special about the Wellington Hospitality scene, great food & service in beautiful surroundings .

With staff dressed in authentic German costumes, Steins of Hofbräu and other German beers on tap. There’s ample space to get together with friends in the beer garden and eat our already famous Pork Knuckles schnitzels, sausages and rotisserie meat. Munchen recreates the German experience like no other venue can. The venue is modern clean and crisp, the service is exceptional and the food is cooked in an open plan kitchen in an authentic Bavarian style. So if you’re looking for a unique venue and fancy a taste of Bavaria, find us at Queens Wharf and drop in for a stein. Prost !

103 Oriental Parade, Wellington T: 04 385 7124 coenes.co.nz

6 Queens Wharf, Wellington T: 04 979 7386 munchen.co.nz

FOXGLOVE BAR & KITCHEN Wellington WATERFRONT

Havana Bar & Restaurant Wellington City

Foxglove Bar & Kitchen is perched in a fantastic spot on Queens Wharf, a stone’s throw from the CBD and a short amble along the scenic waterfront. An expansive building with three unique bars, mouthwatering cocktails and an impressive wine selection. Comfy sofas inside, for when a break from the Wellington wind is needed and for sunny days there’s the famous deck with daybeds. Great casual dining is offered throughout the building, but the real experience is the Modern-Kiwi menu in the 1920’s themed restaurant. Excellent service and desserts to die for, topped off with awesome views across to Eastbourne.

Situated in colourful and cosy historic cottages, Havana is an award winning cocktail bar and restaurant serving a diverse range of Spanish inspired tapas and seasonal plates. The bar supports local and international musicians and DJ's three nights a week for your listening pleasure.

Havana Bar is a unique urban oasis preserved and nestled amongst an array of high rise neighbours. The kitchen is proud to provide the highest quality products sourced from the ‘Best little capital in the world’, including the rest of New Zealand and abroad. Havana Bar encompasses the full experience, from the delights of lunch, dinner, and drinks, finishing with the finest music and dance.

33 Queens Wharf, Wellington T: 04 460 9410 E: info@foxglovebar.co.nz foxglovebar.co.nz

32a Wigan Street, Te Aro, Wellington T: 04 384 7039 E: info@havanabar.co.nz havanabar.co.nz o u r n e w z e a l a n d.c o. n z

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WELLINGTON

Capital SHINES

BY JO MAY

Days are getting longer, flowers are in bloom, and it’s time to ditch the winter wardrobe! There are plenty of things to do and explore in Wellington this season that’ll put a spring in your step.

Wellington Waterfront. Photo: WellingtonNZ.com

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Wellington Botanic Gardens. Photo: WellingtonNZ.com

Wellington Botanic Garden Over 26 hectares of unsurpassed views, unique landscape, exotic forests, native bush, colourful floral displays and gorgeous specialist gardens.

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

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

have boats, trailers or trucks).

www.capitalgateway.co.nz 62

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Embrace nature

When the sun is shining and it's a beautiful Spring day in Wellington, the best thing to do is get out there and enjoy a bit of vitamin D. Wellington is a city made for walking so enjoy the nice weather and explore. Make the most of the extended days and enjoy Wellington’s great outdoors. Jump on a bike and weave your way around the Wellington waterfront.

Days Bay, Eastbourne. Certainly worth a day trip with East By West Ferries

If you’re keen to test the lungs a little more, take on the city’s mountain bike trails that lead to the top of Mount Victoria or Makara Peak. It’s worth it for the views, and you can reward yourself with culinary goodness once you’re at done at a number of Wellington’s bike-friendly cafes such as Nikau, Deluxe and Aro CafÊ. Garage Project couldn’t be better placed for a post-bike brew, swing by for some taste-testing after taking on Makara Peak. Mud Cycles is your mountain bike HQ, whether hiring or just looking for all the local trail info, conditions and maps.

Situated on Karori Road, just minutes from Makara Peak, they offer hire MTB's with all specifications you need for a day of offroad fun.

If biking isn’t your thing, the capital is easily explored on foot.

Wellington came out with a score of 97/100 on Walk Score, making it a walker’s paradise – pretty cool. The Wellington Writers Walk will lead you all around the waterfront, keep an eye out for the poetry cast in concrete as you go.

If you want to go bush, stroll along the town belt towards either Te Ahumairangi, or Mt Victoria Lookout - perfect spots to enjoy the longer days and watch the sun set. Check out the Welly Walks app for more inspiration, with loads of great tracks, maps and images.

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 harbor. 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.

Nothing says spring like flowers in bloom, and the Wellington Botanic Garden sure puts on a good show. Spring heralds the start of tulip season and at the Botanic Garden you’ll discover 24,000 tulips looking blooming lovely. Take your time to wander through and enjoy a gorgeous mix of colourful floral displays, native bush and stunning specialist gardens. Plus, a little fresh air could do no harm! The Botanic Gardens are the best spot for a picnic and, best of all, Wellington’s iconic Cable Car is fresh from a

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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recent upgrade. While you’re there, head to Space Place at Carter Observatory and learn about the magic of the stars.

For more animal encounters, head on a Seal Coast Safari and spy New Zealand fur seals. Something a bit more intimate can be found on a close encounter at Wellington Zoo – we recommend the red pandas.

Just a 10-minute drive from downtown Wellington you'll find Zealandia. Hidden in a suburban valley, this project aims to return a 225 hectare section of bush to its pre-human state. Take a walk and hear the songs of the flourishing native bird population.

Volunteer guides help you make the most, and you can even book a night tour for kiwi spotting.

Spring dining delights

Said to have more bars and cafes per capita than New York, what better way to make the most of Wellington’s late afternoon sun than by perching outside with a bite to eat or a few brews. Enjoy a coffee in the front courtyard at Fidel's, sink into the beanbags and sip on a cold beverage at Rogue and Vagabond, or catch the last of the rays on the deck at Havana.

For a slice of delight visit Pizza Pomodoro and experience authentic woodfired Neapolitan pizzas. They offer a pick up or delivery service and use only the freshest ingredients with homemade pizza dough and baked the traditional way.

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

If it’s a Sunday, make sure you swing by the Harbourside Market, located on the waterfront near Te Papa Tongarewa, for some fresh local produce and food truck treats.

Turn to pages 57-60 of this issue to read our Wellington Dine feature and our picks for dining in the capital.

Whats New & Old

Department store David Jones is new to Wellington, and stocks a variety of luxury brands that are sure to excite shoppers! With a selection of fashion, accessories and beauty brands, as well as local labels, DJs is the spot to go for fashionistas.

The Old Bank Building is one of Wellington's most famous landmarks. 2001 marked the hundred-year anniversary of this magnificent building - a testament as much to the architecture of John Turnbull and the original builders as it was to the incredible restoration work that has seen the Old Bank return to its former glory. The building is classified as a place of 'special or outstanding historical or cultural heritage significance or value' by the New Zealand Historic Places Trust.

Old Bank Arcade has established itself as a fashion enclave, boasting an array of hip fashion boutiques, in addition to stylish beauty parlours and delectable cafes and eateries. A trip to the Old Bank is not just a retail thrill - it's a chance to experience a world of history and style.

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)

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hotelwaterloo.co.nz

AUCKL AND

For fashion, beauty and a latte…

Fashion cLockwork Steampunk i Love pariS i Love uGLy miSSy’S room ricocHet ruby SiLLS + co tayLor boutique viGi workSHop

Lifestyle de Spa cHocoLatier SHaLLa jeweLLerS tHe GoLd excHanGe tory & ko waLLace cotton

Living Wild as Nature Intended ZEALANDIA is the world’s first fully-fenced urban ecosanctuary, with an extraordinary 500-year vision to restore a Wellington valley’s forest and freshwater ecosystems as closely as possible to their pre-human state. The 225 hectare ecosanctuary is a groundbreaking conservation project that has reintroduced 18 species of native wildlife back into the area, 6 of which were previously absent from mainland New Zealand for over 100 years. www.visitzealandia.com

Stay

The Wellington region has a great array of accommodation to suit all budgets and tastes.

Travelodge is the perfect oasis right in the centre of the city. Its proximity to the harbour, Wellington Museum and the cafes and restaurants of Lambton Quay mean adventure is never far away.

Cafés HiGHer taSte reStaurant mojo SmitH tHe Grocer StarbuckS

Beauty GeorGie Love Hair Studio L’occitane LuSH SHampoo pLuS Spa expreSS

Quest on Thorndon Apartment Hotel is located right in the CBD and is situated in the heart of the Wellington Government District and close to both Lambton Quay and the Westpac Stadium.

Halswell Lodge is located centrally in Courtenay Place and is easy walking distance to city entertainment and attractions.

Hotel Waterloo & Backpackers is a great place to stay in the heart of Wellington. A 4 star Backpacker accommodation they area an easy walk to bus and train terminals and the Interislander ferry terminal.

Open 7 Days Cnr Willis St & Lambton Quay Log on to join our VIP Quay Club

www.oldbank.co.nz

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Capital Gateway Motor Inn is located seven minutes from Wellington city. They offer a range of accommodation options and also have campervan park.

The Museum Art Hotel is New Zealand's most admired designer hotel. Located on Wellington's waterfront, it boasts a comprehensive collection of contemporary New Zealand art works. Museum Hotel Wellington incorporates 160 classically elegant rooms, spacious studios and suites and award-winning Hippopotamus Restaurant and Bar. Location is perfect with Te Papa ( Museum of New Zealand) and the Wellington weekend markets across the road and close the Wellington nightlife.

WOW! THE WORLD OF WEARABLEART AWARDS IS A MUST SEE

The Museum Hotel is listed on Yahoo's list of Ten of the Best Hotel’s with Magnificent Artwork of the World. The hotel boasts a total of 157 original artworks from 116, mainly local artists.

Wellington is eventful in Spring, with Wellington’s signature spring event, the World of WearableArt™ Awards Show is back for its 28th season and is bigger, bolder and more creative than ever.

They have been thoughtfully selected by the hotel's ambassador, Chris Parkin, and are permanently on display for you to be entertained and inspired. An art map has been designed to help you fully appreciate the hotels collection of unique paintings and sculpture. This thoughtful map allows you the chance to take your own self-guided tour of the artworks.

Catch this visual extravaganza from 22 Sep – 9 Oct 2016 and experience the unique combination of theatre, fashion and art that entices more than 55,000 showgoers from around the world to converge on the capital each spring.

Only 20 minutes north of Wellington is Hawk’s Inn Motel in Upper Hutt. Ideal for Wellington business visitors, families and groups.

Base in Cambridge Terrace has a private camper park close to the ferry terminal and offers a large selection of room types.

Y O U R P E R F E C T T R AV E L C O M P A 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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Photo: WellingtonNZ.com

Photo: WellingtonNZ.com

HAWK’S INN

MOTEL • UPPER HUTT, WELLINGTON

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

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

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

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

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

w ww.hawksinnm ote l .c o. n z

WELLINGTON - MATIU SOMES ISLAND - DAYS BAY

With over 500 cars and bikes. Spend time in the museum or just relax and have a coffee in the café amongst superb automotive history.

Open every day of the year from 9:00am - 4:30pm except for Christmas Day and Good Friday.

Just an hour North of Wellington.

Otaihanga Road, just off State Highway 1.

E: info@eastbywest.co.nz

P: 04 499 1282

www.eastbywest.co.nz

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Stroll along the waterfront Arm yourself with a map or download our 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.

Wellington Waterfront. Photo: WellingtonNZ.com

WELLINGTON CENTRAL

Mud Cycles Experience Wellingtons best adventure activity!

HALSWELL LODGE

Mountain biking & bike hire.

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

MOUNTAIN BIKING & BIKE HIRE KARORI 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)

• • • •

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

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PICK-UP AND DELIVERY ONLY!

Great Neapolitan pizza, cooked with fresh ingredients, on homemade pizza dough and baked the traditional way.

DINNER Mon to Sun 5pm - 9pm LUNCH Wed to Fri 12noon to 2pm delivery to your door or hotel

Hannah Warehouse, 13 Leeds St, Wellington Ph: 04 381 2929 www.pizzapomodoro.co.nz

W ELL I N G TO N

A Must See in Wellington First World War at The Great War Exhibition

Master film-maker, Sir Peter Jackson, with the support of ANZ, has created the global story of the First World War at The Great War Exhibition. A stunning array of movie-like sets depict the war. From the massive 10-tonne tank and 11-tonne gun to the tiny figurines engaged in trench warfare, the artefacts are rare and thought provoking.

time at the capture of Chunuk Bair on 8 August 1915 when the Wellington Battalion took and defended a hilltop on the ridge line – the highest point reached by the Allied forces. The diorama demonstrates the desperate fighting, bravery and leadership on both sides of this crucial battle.

The Great War Exhibition is constantly changing with new exhibits that coincide with what was happening in the War 100 years ago.

It truly is a world-class exhibition, acclaimed by international visitors and New Zealander’s alike, and is “must see” when planning an itinerary for New Zealand’s capital city.

While the Great War is seen in black and white by many, Sir Peter shows it in vivid colour, as the people of the day saw it, through hundreds of photographs from the era which have been painstakingly colourised to melt away the last 100 years.

Step into the Great Hall and be transported back 100 years to a peaceful pre-war Belgian village. You will then be plunged into the conflict and confronted by scenes of trenches, massive guns, planes and tanks giving a glimpse of the reality of the Great War. The history of the war is told year by year, scene by scene, highlighting the challenges and technology changes that emerged. You will experience the desperate horrors and the triumphs of the human spirit that characterised this tragedy.

The “ANZ Room – Gallipoli – New Zealand's Story in Colour” focuses on New Zealand’s story. It contains an enormous diorama featuring over 5000 tiny, hand-painted figurines frozen in

The global story of the First World War told as only Sir Peter Jackson can – with movie-like film sets and in brilliant colour Open daily 9am to 6pm (closed on Christmas Day) Admission: Adults $15 | Children (16 years and under) No Charge Dominion Museum Building | Pukeahu National War Memorial Park, Wellington, New Zealand www.greatwarexhibition.nz info@greatwarexhibition.nz (04) 978 2500 greatwarexhibition PRINCIPAL PARTNER

@GWE100

GREAT SUPPORTERS

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TH E M U S E U M A R T HOT E L ’ S E VO L U T I ON TO Q T M U S E U M W E L L I NGTON Wellington’s beloved Museum Art Hotel is soon to be QT Museum Wellington Hotel. QT Museum Wellington will be the first property outside of QT’s Australian origins. With 6 boutique properties across Australia, Wellington will follow suit and be led by design, quirk and innovation, capturing the heart of Wellington’s creative culture. New Zealand’s most admired art hotel will remain a luxurious experience with an extensive contemporary art collection.

As the evolution of QT merges with the historic Hotel, the essence of Museum Art Hotel will remain with the QT brand elevating its existing charm. It will be a hub of design, architecture, and fashion – and of course, luxury. Immerse yourself in the country’s Creative Capital with its freshest addition, QT Museum Wellington.

Our boutique accommodation is home to 163 rooms ranging from open studios to suites, suited to every decadent traveller. Idyllically located by the city’s waterfront, arts and entertainment district and New Zealand’s National Museum, Te Papa Tongarewa, guests will fall in love with the Wellington’s vibrant offerings on our doorstep. Continue to indulge in the art of fine dining at Hippopotamus Restaurant and Cocktail Bar with an award winning French influenced menu.

90 Cable Street, Wellington T: +64 4 802 8900 E: info@museumhotel.co.nz museumhotel.co.nz QTHotelsandResorts.com

QT Sydney’s ‘Directors of Chaos’

Museum Art Hotel

Hippopotamus Restaurant and Cocktail Bar is suitably in on the third level of the hotel and will remain one of Wellington’s top fine dining restaurants, serving our guests a high level of service. It presents the finest French cuisine with stunning views of Wellington Harbour. Experience the art of fine dining with an award winning French influenced menu. The restaurant’s extensive cellar holds the best of New Zealand and European wine.

90 Cable Street, Wellington T: +64 4 802 8900 E: info@museumhotel.co.nz museumhotel.co.nz

The Capital awaits Early evening Dining

For every occasion High Tea

Wellington is a cosmopolitan city with an active nightlife, entertainment options are endless - Theatre, live music, countless galleries, the list goes on. Begin your creative journey early and make the most of the capital’s offerings with a two course set menu at Hippopotamus Restaurant and Cocktail Bar.

As the most recent winners of the Dilmah Global High Tea Challenge, Hippopotamus creates a world class High Tea experience.

Taking on a British favourite with an indulgent French Twist, guests will not leave disappointed. Live the luxuriously and treat yourself with edible works of art as a lady or lad of leisure.

Evening tables are to be seated by 5.30pm and vacated by 7:30pm.

High Tea is available Wednesday to Sunday, 2pm - 4.30pm.

th o rn d o n

THORNDON WELLINGTON'S LITTLE POCKET OF HISTORY

Spring is the perfect time to step back in time and visit architectural gems in Wellington’s oldest suburb. Thorndon is a great place to start your heritage journey this Spring.

Old St Paul’s is breathtakingly beautiful and is Wellington's iconic and is one of New Zealand's greatest heritage places. It is one of the best examples of timber Gothic Revival architecture in the world.

Visit key areas of the historic Parliament Buildings. Enjoy your free 1 hour guided tour by specially trained staff.

Old St Paul's is a place of living history, a place that tells the stories - not only of the church but the people of Wellington and the historic suburb of Thorndon. Constructed in 1866 entirely from native timbers, the glowing interior is enhanced by stunning stained glass.

The site where Old St Paul’s stands was formerly part of Pipitea Pa. For almost 100 years, Old St Paul’s served as the parish church of Thorndon and the Anglican Cathedral of Wellington.

The tour operates everyday, on the hour, from the Beehive.

Weekdays: 10am-4pm.

Saturdays and most public holidays: 10am-3pm.

Sundays: 11am-3pm. Tour route/times subject to change. Please arrive 15 minutes before the hour.

Gaze at Old St Paul’s unique colonial architecture, admire its exquisite embroidered furnishings and be awed by the colours of its beautiful stained glass windows.

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. Visit the gift shop at Old St Paul's, which features exquisite gifts and New Zealand keepsakes.

Specialising in locally made goods, there is something to suit every taste. Old St Paul’s is also a popular venue for a wide range of cultural events.

Gift shop open Parliament Buildings, Molesworth Street, Wellington P: 04 817 9503 F: 04 817 6743 E: tour.desk@parliament.govt.nz www.parliament.nz

No visit to capital would be complete without a visit to New Zealand’s beautifully refurbished Parliament Buildings.

Also located in Thorndon, the complex is made up of three architecturally distinctive buildings: the Edwardian neo-classical Parliament House, the Victorian Gothic Parliamentary Library and the unique 1970's style Beehive building.

These buildings are part of New Zealand’s national heritage and the centre of the countries democracy. Tours are free and operate on the hour from the Beehive.

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.

KATHERINE MANSFIELD Literary fans will enjoy Katherine Mansfield Birthplace at 25 Tinakori Road. The childhood home of New Zealand’s most famous author reveals background for the enjoyment and understanding of a large part of her writing.

Also be sure to set aside some time for art and antique shopping at Tinakori Road village.

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

Gift shop

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–

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

Exhibition

–

Guided tours

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hutt valley

H U T T VA LLE Y

Wander where wild Kiwi roam BY james lamb

Just 15 minutes up the road from our capital city is the Hutt Valley – full of fresh air and getting up close to nature. Breathe in the crispness of forest walks, earn the satisfaction of hill-top views over to South Island mountains and get up close and personal with seals, horses, Tuatara, and a short real-life Weta cave.

At night wild Kiwi fossicking around can be heard by walkers in the Rimutaka Forest Park and those staying in huts in the Orongorongo Valley. It seems a world away after just an hour or two’s walk along a gentle yet lush Beech and Rata tree forest trail. Over 100 Kiwi live in the park now thanks for the extensive volunteers of the Rimutaka Forest Park Trust who have created an in-land pest-free island. The nesting Kiwis have even moved beyond Wellington’s protected Wainuiomata water catchment and neighbouring recreation area prompting notices among residents living on the fringe of the forest park to be vigilant about their new wandering neighbours.

Visitors can explore dams in the historic Wainuiomata water catchment area and get a real sense of going back in time as the forest gets denser and taller as the track goes deeper and deeper in to what is 1000 year old bush. Keep an eye out for guided walk tours run by the regional council that go deep in to this pristine bush.

The world’s fourth oldest active geocache can be found here too – known as GC46. . Hundreds of hills and trails are perfect for the world-wide following of geocaching – a widespread series of outdoor treasure hunts. After a picnic follow GPS coordinates to zero in on a cache and you’ll soon be telling each other “15 metres away… now 3 metres over that way…!” Enthusiasts even follow a geocaching code so they’re throwing others off potential finds and keeping the treasure hidden. Download the free Geocaching app, select a cache to find near your location and use your phone to find directions and hints to where the treasure lies.

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From here, drive to the end of Coast Road and you’ll be rewarded with a stark and rugged environment with stunning views to over to the South Island, popular with night sky photographers away from the city lights. Turakirae Scenic Reserve is home to the Wellington region's largest New Zealand fur seal colony – numbering up to 500 during Winter until early Spring. The Rimutaka Cycle Trail also starts here and trails over to Wairarapa. Or get into bouldering at Baring Head, the birthplace of the sport in New Zealand. The views are guaranteed to impress. Take in the Pacific Ocean and distant mountains from sea level or get a better view riding in a quad bike tour or sitting on a horse saddle for a trek atop the coast.

Let the city fall away as you explore waterfalls nestled in lush native bush, often just minutes away from urban areas. Moist Spring days make for a great time to go hunting for seven waterfalls – especially after a day of rain when the sun’s out. Shut your eyes and open your ears at local favourites found in Percy’s Scenic Reserve and the historic Korokoro and Birchville Dams - the first two concrete dams built in New Zealand for town water supplies.

If the kids are in tow, there are plenty of wild things left that the kids can touch. Get up close and personal with wildlife in their natural environment at Staglands Wildlife Reserve, located in the beautiful Akatarawa Valley. Freely interact with animals at this unique destination - pack your picnic or stay for the café to make a day of it! Walk through a giant enclosure full of birds, feed some trout and stroll alongside deer – shh… the kids will know them as reindeer!

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

H U T T VA LLE Y

TRANQUILITY HOMESTAY BED AND BREAKFAST

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.

Mt Matthews overlooking Rimutaka Forest Park home of wild kiwi

Approximately 20 minutes from the Interislander Ferry.

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

www.tranquilityhomestay.co.nz

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 itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s wonderful range of boutique shops, restaurants, cafes and bars.

Lord of the Rings film location sites at Kaitoke Regional Park

$135 to $150 per night, includes a buffet style continental breakfast, wifi & laundry facilities.

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

The big sky of the Wainuiomata South Coast

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H U T T VA LLE Y

Rimutaka Cycle Trail Starting on Wellington’s doorstep, this trail winds through the Rimutaka Ranges to the Wairarapa Valley and the mouth of the Orongorongo River.

From the Petone foreshore, the Rimutaka Cycle Trail cuts through the bush-clad Rimutaka Mountain Range, passing through tunnels on an old rail trail, and skirting around the wild southern coast.

onnect

with nature

...visit Staglands Open every day 9.30-5.00

www.staglands.co.nz 2362 Akatarawa Road Upper Hutt, Wellington 74

Take a journey of your own to Middle Earth and relive the cinematic magic of The Lord of the Rings Trilogy. Visit the set locations Helm’s Deep, Isengard, the Great River Anduin and Rivendell in Kaitoke Regional Park which is often a highlight including a pou [totem pole] where you can measure yourself against heights of dwarves, elves and other movie characters.

Search for Wellington’s Wild Things characters located around the region and find lots more animals, bugs and plants to touch – including the kiwi favourite: Weta on Matiu Somes Island. Situated in the middle of Wellington Harbour the island has a weird and wonderful history full of drama as a quarantine station and a war time prison. It’s now a wildlife sanctuary and home of New Zealand's unique reptile, the Tuatara and Little Blue Penguins. Be prepared to clean your shoes, check your bags and declare you’re free of pests when you visit this protected reserve. Getting there is the best part with regular harbour ferry services from Wellington CBD to the island and across to Days Bay, Eastbourne.

Go for a picnic in Williams Park or soak up a sunset at one of several seaside cafes and restaurants. The kids can wander up to the lookout to look back down on the wharf that they arrived on - to catch a city and harbour panorama.

No matter where you go in the Hutt Valley there’s something special waiting for you to see or do – as well as world-class art exhibitions and vibrant theatre productions, adventure parks, nature walks, movie sets, interactive wildlife and historic sites, or any number of activities for the whole family to enjoy.

For more visit HuttValleyNZ.com or the Hutt City i-SITE Visitor Centre at 25 Laings Road, Lower Hutt for more great places to discover this Spring. o u r n e w z e a l a n d.c o. n z

wairarapa

wairarapa

A boutique wine region

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WA I R A R A PA

RIDE THE VINES IN MARTINBOROUGH! Just use the promo code: OURNZ to receive this great discount MARTINBO ROUGH BIKE HIR E

Offer expires 31 Dec 2016.

16 Kitchener Street Martinborough P: 027 BIKEGUY

Above: Toast Martinborough wine and food festival celebrates 25 years in November 2016.

Right: Ata Rangi wine maker Helen Masters (left) with caterer Ruth Pretty will celebrate a 25 year partnership at Toast Martinborough this November.

www.greenjersey.co.nz The champagne corks will be popping in the wine village of Martinborough in the Wairarapa this Spring when one of New Zealand’s most loved wine and food festivals, Toast Martinborough, celebrates its 25th Anniversary.

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

Ope 7 dayns

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

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The one-day festival, being held on November 20th 2016, will see nine of the village’s wineries partner with nine premium restaurants to create a distinctive day out for lovers of great food, wine and music. The festival’s general manager Anna Nielson is excited Toast Martinborough has grown up and reached its dignified Silver Anniversary.

“Back in 1992 when Toast began, the newest tipple was Nouveau Rouge and asparagus rolls and seafood vol-au-vents were on the menu,” she says. “This year we are polishing the sliver and ensuring we create a sophisticated experience for all ticket holders … as we know a 25th anniversary is a rare milestone for a festival to reach. We are very proud of the partnership and support of our award-winning vineyards and are so pleased to have created an enduring premium wine, food and music event.”

The festival has always been a platform to showcase and celebrate the variety of wine styles made in Martinborough and traditionally signals spring time in the Wairarapa, a region only a one hour’s train ride or drive from Wellington and located at the heart of the Classic New Zealand Wine Trail.

However visitors can learn about what makes the region’s wine so special any time of year thanks to the concentrated number of vineyards in close proximity to Martinborough’s town square which is laid out like a Union Jack. In fact, the best way to discover these is by hiring a bike from Green Jersey Cycle Tours, grabbing a wine map from the next door i-SITE Visitor Information Centre and cycling the short distance between the vineyards. Thanks to the flat, scenic, country roads it makes for a relaxing way to experience Martinborough.

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 with each season, beautifully restored Victorian wooden buildings that house a range of stylish and o u r n e w z e a l a n d.c o. n z

WA I R A R A PA

Thousands of Toast fans in New Zealand and around the world are already planning for this ‘must do’ event – a once-a-year opportunity to sample world-class wines, savour delicious cuisine and enjoy some great live entertainment in one of the country’s most picturesque wine-growing villages.

TICKETS General admission ticket sales will be available from 21 September 2016. Platinum and group tickets on sale NOW at Ticketek. www.ticketek.co.nz

“ This year we are polishing the sliver and ensuring we create a sophisticated experience for all ticket holders … as we know a 25th anniversary is a rare milestone for a festival to reach”.

Escape to the WAIRARAPA

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 such as Food Forest Organics and Delicatessen which sells 95 percent organic food; Blackwell & Sons cycling lifestyle merchants who exclusively sell global brand Pashley Cycles in New Zealand and HALL locally made designer clothing.

rooms from

$129

per night*

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 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.

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 more 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

Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll have a brilliant time in Marlborough Protected by mountain ranges, the temperate climate and high sunshine hours make Marlborough a brilliant destination in Spring.

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o u rn e wz e a l an d.c o. nz Photo: MarlboroughNZ.com

mar l b o r o u gh

Marlborough in Spring sees crisp mornings and warm, sunny afternoons. As new buds appear on the region’s fruit trees and vines, spring marks the release of the latest Sauvignon Blanc vintage – the wine that put Marlborough on the world wine stage.

While most holidaymakers are busily planning their Summer holidays to Marlborough, now’s the time to sneak out the back door! Little do they know, you’ve got sunny Marlborough almost all to yourself to explore and unwind.

Now, what should you do with this brilliant opportunity? Well if you’re an avid mountain biker, you probably won’t need much convincing to spend your holiday smashing single track through native bush, and if wine + you = happiness, then you’ll love the idea of relaxing vine side with a glass of world famous Sauvignon Blanc. So, sift through this selection of must do experiences and ask yourself - why would I possibly want to go anywhere else?

Cycling & Mountain Biking

Marlborough has a great choice of on and off road tracks catering to all abilities. Mountain bike the Queen Charlotte Track, cycle the Wither Hills or ride between the many vineyards amid stunning scenery.

including the Nydia Track, Whites Bay Loop, the Wakamarina Track, and Picton’s Victoria Domain Mountain Bike Park.

The 70km Queen Charlotte Track is a New Zealand Great Ride, suitable for intermediate to advanced mountain bikers. The track is open to biking from March to November, and open to walkers all-year round. This ride opens up a unique opportunity to have your packs transferred to your accommodation each day by water taxi; whether it be a campsite, bed for the night, or luxurious resort suite, so all you need to ride with is your essential supplies in a day pack. If you’re not up to challenge of biking the track, you can walk it too!

For a more relaxed experience, hit the wine trails by bike and spend the day hopping between cellar doors along the Marlborough Wine Trail. Enjoy cycling along quiet rural roads through picturesque countryside, stopping to taste the latest wine vintages or relax over a vineyard lunch. Cycle hire and guided tours operate year-round.

Closer to Blenheim, the Wither Hills Farm Park features 1,100 hectares of rolling hill country and is home to numerous tracks for mountain bikers with excellent views of Blenheim and beyond. Or explore some of the many trails around the region

As New Zealand’s largest and most famous wine region, Marlborough produces 75% of the country’s wine and is the undisputed home of Sauvignon Blanc – world famous for its intense and pure flavours.

For more information, visit the bike section on MarlboroughNZ.com Wine & Dine

SIR PETER JACKSON’s

EXHIBITION ONLY AT THE OMAKA AVIATION HERITAGE CENTRE

COMING WINTER 2016

DANGEROUS SKIES WW2 EXHIBITION

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Beachcomber Cruises

Beachcomber Cruises THE MAGIC MAIL RUN

This is their most popular trip and a great way to explore the beautiful Marlborough Sounds. The Beachcomber Mail Boat is the only official licensed New Zealand Post Rural delivery service by water in the Queen Charlotte Sound. Share the excitement of mail day as they deliver the mail and groceries to the families that live in these beautiful remote places. No one day is the same as the route changes daily but they always stop at Ship Cove.

Celebrating 150 years of mail boat delivery service

Ship Cove was named by Captain James Cook on 15 January 1770 when his ship The Endeavour anchored here to replenish supplies of food, water and wood. It became a favourite anchorage of Captain Cook and he returned here a further four times between 1770 and 1777 which has since been commemorated by a memorial. Take the opportunity to go ashore and explore, read the information panels, take pictures or just walk along the beach. Then return to Picton delivering mail and uplifting guests as they go.

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

Tour Highlights

• Motuara Island bird sanctuary

• Delivering mail to the local residents; say hi to the kids waiting for their school work.

• 15 minutes ashore at Ship Cove, a favourite anchorage of Captain Cook’s • View the resident wildlife and marine mammals such as New Zealand Fur Seals and visiting dolphins • Learn the history of the Marlborough Sounds and its residents from your friendly skipper • Complimentary tea and coffee • Departs: 1.30pm, Monday to Saturday all year round Returns: Approximately 5.30-6.00pm

• Transport to Queen CharlotteTrack • One day or multi day walks • Mountain biking • On demand water transport • Holiday home transfers

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

www.beachcombercruises.co.nz 80

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A number of Marlborough’s 33 cellar doors provide the ultimate in wine and food matching, with restaurants and cafes on-site serving up fresh Marlborough cuisine ranging from gourmet platters to fine dining prepared for and served by Michelin-rated kitchen and front-of-house staff.

Along with fine wine, Marlborough is renowned for delicious seafood, with cuisine regularly incorporating local Greenshell™ mussels, King salmon, clams and oysters along with local meats, cheeses, fruit and nuts.

The Towns

Your first point of call will most likely be the vibrant seaport town of Picton which sits at the head of Queen Charlotte Sounds. The town has a rich historic past as a M-aori settlement and fishing village, which can be experienced by visiting the local museums and heritage sites. Picton has evolved into a buzzing community with an eclectic mix of cafes and restaurants, and boasts an absolutely stunning foreshore.

If you’re basing yourself in wine country, then you’ll likely become familiar with Blenheim and Renwick. The compact town centre of Blenheim is easy to explore on foot, featuring historic landmarks, attractive gardens, and a bustling high street, complemented by a thriving café and restaurant scene. Renwick is surrounded by vineyards growing Marlborough’s world-famous wines, with 17 cellar doors within a 5km radius of the town.

If you love mussels (the edible kind), then a visit to the Greenshell™ mussel capital of the world, Havelock, will be well rewarded. Tucked in beside lush wetlands, native bush, and the entrance to the Pelorus, Kenepuru and Mahau Sounds, the township provides access to stunning waterways, walks and places to stay. A short drive along the road and you’re in Hollywood country – the dwarves’ barrel run scene from The Hobbit – The Desolation of Smaug was filmed at nearby Pelorus Bridge – a popular picnic and camping spot.

SERVICING INTERISLANDER PASSENGERS SINCE 2000

B L ENHEI M

RELAX, UNWIND AND ENJOY THE VIEW, AT CAFE CORTADO Reward your tastebuds with our contemporary European and South American influenced menu, local seafood dishes and our unique coffee blend!

PHOENIX MOTOR INN

An experience worth stopping for!

IN A RUSH? Our pizzas are also available for takeaway.

OPEN WED TO SUN - 8AM TILL LATE PICTON WATERFRONT

SHOW US YOUR FERRY OR TRAIN TICKET when you purchase a main meal or large pizza and receive a FREE house beverage, coffee or soft drink.

EXP: 30TH NOV 2016

For top accommodation in Marlborough the number one motel is Phoenix Motel offering the best deal with FREE WIFI. If you’re looking for a 4 star Qualmark rated motel property then the Phoenix Motor Inn is the perfect place.

All our units are away from the traffic noise and are quiet. We offer a range of - studio, one bedroom and 2 bedroom units.

P: 0800 50 60 10

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

174 Middle Renwick Rd, Blenheim E: stay@phoenixmotorinn.co.nz

www.phoenixmotorinn.co.nz 81

mar l b o r o u gh

The Mussel CapiTal of The World EXPERIENCE THE REAL MARLBOROUGH SOUNDS

in the heart of Havelock, Marlborough

MENTION THIS AD AND RECEIVE

MEET THE LOCALS & LOCAL WILDLIFE

Join us as we deliver the mail and supplies to the locals who live in isolated bays in the majestic Pelorus Sound.

See a variety of wildlife, view mussel farms and experience the history and stunning beauty of the real Marlborough Sounds.

E: bookings@themailboat.co.nz P: 03 574 1088

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

THE MAIL RUN IS A FULL DAY CRUISE ON TUES, THURS & FRI. CHECK-IN AT HAVELOCK 9AM

www.themailboat.co.nz LIKE US ON FACEBOOK Pelorus Mail Boat

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

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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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Queen Charlotte Track For the Adventurer at Heart The Queen Charlotte Track is without a doubt one of the jewels in the crown of Marlborough.

It’s a Great Ride and a great walk, in every other way than an official one.

What’s more, it’s a stunning backdrop for sea kayaking as well. Not many trails around New Zealand can boast to offer such a range of ways for the visitor to experience.

The Queen Charlotte Track is accessed by boat from the charming maritime village of Picton, located at the heart of the Marlborough Sounds. Waiting for you is an adventure in one of New Zealand’s best loved marine playgrounds.

Picton-based adventure outfitters Wilderness Guides, run by long time locals Juliet and Steve Gibbons since 1999, offer adventures designed to capture all the activities of the area including guided and independent walks, guided kayak tours and freedom hire of kayaks and bikes.

“We often get visitors to the Sounds asking how they can best experience all three of the area’s most popular activities - hiking and mountain biking the Queen Charlotte Track as well as sea kayaking - over a few days.

Fortunately we have designed a range of trips to offer just that,” says Juliet.

The 70km Queen Charlotte is a welldefined track which crosses a mixture of public and private land and is suitable for most people of moderate fitness, although biking is pretty challenging in parts. The terrain of the track is regarded as undulating with hills ranging from sea level to just over 400 metres.

Although most well-known as a walking trail, the Queen Charlotte Track is also one of the country’s 23 Great Rides and is enjoying a surge in popularity as an exhilarating mountain bike trail.

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The track traverses the spine of the sunken river valleys of the Marlborough Sounds between two bodies of water – the Queen Charlotte and Kenepuru Sounds – taking in both majestic ridgeline views and picturesque coastal scenes along the way. This setting means that kayaking in the Marlborough Sounds is an amazing experience with so many sheltered bays and coves beckoning the paddler to explore – the only trouble is you will be left wanting more! A day just won’t be enough . . .

The accommodation choices while hiking, biking or sea kayaking along the Queen Charlotte Track are many.

You can camp at Department of Conservation campsites or opt for accommodation in backpackers and homestays along the way all while taking advantage of the water transport services which allow your luggage to be transferred each day. All you need is your day pack each day!

And if you really want some pampering at day’s end, stay in one of the retreats or boutique lodges conveniently located a day’s hike, bike or kayak apart.

There is certainly something comforting about knowing someone else is looking out for your welfare and making sure that you will have a hot shower, beautiful meal and comfortable bed at the end of the day – not to mention a glass of Marlborough’s finest Sauvignon Blanc!

Wilderness Guides Picton NZ Corner of London Quay & Wellington St P: +64 3 5735432 F: 0800 266 266 E: info@wildernessguidesnz.com www.wildernessguidesnz.com o u r n e w z e a l a n d.c o. n z

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

mar l b o r o u gh win e

wine LIFE

BY JO MAY

hy Trop er n Wiantions Wine

Six N nge 2015 e Chall lborough r & Ma e Show Win

Open wide and say

ahh!

Come and see the newly refurbished Saint Clair Vineyard Kitchen.

HOURS 9AM- 5 P M

Marlborough is New Zealand’s flagship wine region, with more than 140 wineries producing three quarters of the country’s wine.

Marlborough is New Zealand’s largest wine growing region, specialising in Sauvignon Blanc grapes. Its long-ripening season also produces superb Pinot Noir, Methode Traditionelle, Chardonnay and Aromatics.

Visitors can enjoy more than 30 cellar doors featuring well-known international wine brands as well as small boutique family producers. There are also a number of boutique breweries creating beer to complement Marlborough’s gourmet cuisine.

Exploring these delights can easily be done by car or bike, with a wine trail map from the Blenheim or Picton i-SITEs, or join a guided tour by coach, mini-van, car or bike.

Johanneshof Cellars

Johanneshof Cellars is an artisan boutique winery established in 1991 in Marlborough.

Johanneshof Cellars is renowned worldwide for producing multi award winning wines and some outstanding spirits- with a range which encompasses Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc, aromatic whites, home grown Pinot Noir, classic Methode Traditionnelle and spirits such as Brandy and Grappa. www.johanneshof.co.nz Saint Clair Family Estate

Open 7 days a week Selmes Road Rapaura Marlborough

86

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

Saint Clair Family Estate is proud to be a Marlborough family owned winery. From 1994 when wines from their first vintage all won medals including gold, the name Saint Clair has been synonymous with quality and its award-winning record continues today. Visit the Saint Clair Vineyard Kitchen and enjoy the sunny courtyard which offers outdoor dining with some dining options amongst the vines. On a cooler day an extended veranda section can ensure customers continue to have the vineyard feel while being sheltered from the elements through extensive floor to ceiling glass sliding doors. www.saintclair.co.nz o u r n e w z e a l a n d.c o. n z

mar l b o r o u gh win e

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

80 Hammerichs Road, Blenheim P: 03 579 6431 E: cafe@rockferry.co.nz

rockferry.co.nz Photo: MarlboroughNZ.com

Rockferry Wines

Rockferry Wines are proud producers of world-class certified organic wines from vineyards in Marlborough and Central Otago. Their philosophy is to make real wines which speak of their home and to express the pure distinct flavours from their organic estate vineyards. Visit the cellar door and café and enjoy a seasonal inspired menu along with their range of organic wines in warm spaces next to open fire or on their sunny veranda. www.rockferry.co.nz Whitehaven

Whitehaven Wines was established in 1994, in the heart of the Marlborough.

Whitehaven Wines is the realisation of the White family's vision to create quality, award-winning wine, and a critically acclaimed and respected winery. Whitehaven's distinctive anchor insignia, is the reminder of Sue and Greg White's initial vision to create exceptional wine. After sailing the Pacific, Sue and Greg, with their young daughter, dropped anchor in the Marlborough Sounds, and started the new journey of making their vision a reality. www.whitehaven.co.nz Hunters

Jane Hunter is known around the world as the First Lady of New Zealand Wine. As owner, viticulturist and managing director of Hunter’s Wines since 1987, Jane has lead the company to outstanding local and international success as one of New Zealand’s ground-breaking premium wine labels. Her philosophy has always been quality before quantity, ensuring Hunter’s distinctive wines are always medal winners and in demand by wine lovers around the world. www.hunters.co.nz

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mar l b o r o u gh win e

Experience Marlborough by bike

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

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.

“ Did this about a month ago and had to come back for seconds. A must do for the Marlborough region.”

Susan, Maggie, Corina, Nancy & Amy Corvallis, Oregon, US

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.

The fully inclusive package includes a base in the vineyards (no need to cycle the 20km round trip on the busy State Highway roads from Blenheim), a complimentary pick up and drop off service from your accommodation in Blenheim or Renwick, a detailed briefing on what each of the cellar doors offers, a choice of well-maintained cruiser bicycles (single, tandem and trike), helmets, bottled water, four-bottle wine carriers plus a basket to hold those all-important purchases and a fully supported backup service while you are out. You are in safe and experience hands with Wine Tours by Bike.

Probably the most fun you’ll ever have on a bike…

To find out more, visit www.winetoursbybike.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

        

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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

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NELSON

HeART attack Immerse yourself in a cornucopia of creativity when New Zealand’s arts capital packs October’s long holiday weekend with wonder.

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Art Expo Nelson 22-24 October

This Labour Weekend explore the stunning Nelson region; witness exceptional performances during the Nelson Arts Festival including the extraordinary central city Masked Parade on the Friday night; delight and deliberate over the options at Art Expo Nelson, the South Island’s premier art exhibition and sale; indulge your senses with a cycle along the stunning Tasman’s Great Taste Trail, and be inspired by the unusual and fantastic at the World of WearableArt and Classic Cars Museum!

Art Expo Nelson 22-24 October

The fifth annual Art Expo Nelson is set to once again present a three-day veritable banquet of art at Saxton Stadium over Labour Weekend As the South Island’s premier art event, for the artists it’s a chance to showcase their talents; for the public, a chance to be absorbed by the power of art on a large scale.

The Nelson Tasman region has become known for its disproportionately large number of residing artists so locals instantly gravitated towards Art Expo Nelson from the get-go.

As word has spread, numbers of out of town visitors have also increased over the years.

More than 5,500 visitors ambled the aisles of last year’s Expo, viewing unique and affordable art presented by accomplished painters, ceramists, sculptors, jewellers, photographers and multimedia talent.

debate over choices and coffee. This year some 2,000 pieces are expected to be on display and for sale.

Put together by a hardworking team of Art Expo volunteers, Project Manager Nic Foster says part of the fun – and the reward - is seeing who walks away with what.

“The Art Expo is open to everyone, not just aficionados, and we aim to create an environment where everyone feels comfortable – from the seasoned collector to someone who might only buy one piece in a blue moon.”

“Purchasing art is a very heartfelt, emotive process for an individual – it takes time to look, but just seconds to connect.

While it’s calm, there’s definitely a palpable excitement in the air too.

“We feel quite privileged to be the catalyst for that process for so many people. It really is a very special weekend.” www.artexponelson.co.nz

“ More than 5,500 visitors ambled the aisles of last year’s Expo, viewing unique and affordable art presented by accomplished painters, ceramists, sculptors, jewellers, photographers and multimedia talent”.

Attendees enjoy a general atmosphere of relaxed deliberation, the opportunity to purchase direct from the artist, to chat and 90

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N EL S O N

Tasman’s Great Taste Trail

A feast for the eyes, soul and stomach awaits you on Tasman’s Great Taste Trail.

PUT NELSON WINES ON YOUR ITINERARY.

Suitable for all fitness and age levels, from beginner cyclists and families through to cycle enthusiasts, a key reason this Trail is so popular is the gorgeous and varied scenery. Coastal sections provide expansive Tasman Bay views, Kaiteriteri offers up azure bays water and golden sands, while the trail through to Wakefield presents idyllic rural vistas – imagery you’ll carry in your head long after you stop pedalling.

Golden Bay

Another reason for the Trail’s popularity lies in the taste-bud diversions along the way - vineyards, cafes and charming little cottage businesses offering superb local produce, crafted foods, coffee and wine to taste.

Cable Bay Tasman Bay

And of course it wouldn’t be the Tasman region without an art option.

There are more than 300 working artists in the Nelson-Tasman region, including painters, sculptors, ceramic artists, potters, glass blowers, jewellers – many with their galleries on the Trail.

Motueka

NELSON

You’ll need to be pretty focused not to stop at every enticement you come across!

The combination of a temperate climate, loads of accommodation options, an airport with frequent flights to other main centres in New Zealand and hundreds of kilometres of cycle-trails on offer gives you more than enough reasons to get on your bike in Nelson.

Explore boutique wineries in breath-taking surroundings.

The Nelson region is home to world-class wines across a depth of varieties, so make time to find your favourite. Meet the wine makers at their cellar doors and enjoy lunch at a vineyard café in the glorious Nelson sunshine. Discover more at winenelson.co.nz

HANDMADE IN NEW ZEALAND

Disappear & Relax

Bed & Breakfast package.

Stay in a one bedroom studio for only $189 per night including breakfast.

FREE Wifi*

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

Creators of New Zealand art glass since 1982.

52 Lansdowne Road, Richmond, NELSON Ph. 03 544 6500 1767 Luggate-Cromwell Road, CENTRAL OTAGO Ph. 03 442 7210

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

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

hotel@monacoresort.co.nz

www.monacoresort.co.nz

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

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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.

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

If you finish the Trail and want more, there are many of other cycling options in NelsonTasman, including purpose-built single tracks and awesome back-country tracks. www.heartofbiking.org.nz

Nelson Arts Festival 2016 12-24 October

For those wanting to explore the arty heart of Nelson, Labour weekend is a great time to experience it with the 22nd Nelson Arts Festival in full swing! Music, theatre, books and comedy are all rolled together into a memorable 13 days - with Labour Weekend offering an unbeatable schedule of acts.

The weekend fires up on Friday 21 October, when the city streets will be a-throng with the Masked Parade – where Nelsonians of all ages will be showing off their Flights of Fancy with music, dance, costume and masks and the MORE FM Carnivale in the main street of the city - a brilliant free family night out.

Marahau is a sunny valley located just one hour from Nelson. We have many activities on our doorstep, you can kayak the Abel Tasman National Park, enjoy a leisurely wine trail, take a water taxi cruise into the National Park, or ride horses on the beach. ...the choice is yours!

Cabins, Powered Sites, Tent Sites.

100 acres of bush and farm walks.

Natural swimming holes and camping equipment hire Marahau - Abel Tasman National Park P: 03 527 8288 E: info@oldmacs.co.nz www.oldmacs.co.nz

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For theatre lovers, this year’s Festival reaches new heights with the world premiere of Dust Palace’s The Goblin Market, an international cirque cabaret inspired by a Christina Rossetti poem.

And the weekend rolls on with Kiwi comedian Ben Hurley’s Earth Plant World (a comedic romp through the world’s 195 sovereign states), rapper-turned-actor Scribe’s The White Guitar (a dream of a better life collides with the reality of hardship, racism and loss), and live sets from kiwi legends of the Dunedin Sound, The Chills, and modern day troubadour Delaney Davidson. There’s also free music, the Page & Blackmore Readers and Writers programme plus a number of family-friendly free performances: Saturday has music with Pic’s Granary Gigs at Founders Heritage Park and Sunday features a pantomime Commander Claire & The Pirates of Provence. Join us for a fanciful festival thrill like no other. www.nelsonartsfestival.co.nz

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N EL S O N

Enjoy Spring in Nelson this Labour Weekend - we have a wonderful prize trip for you to win.

GUIDE D CANYONING TRI PS

Interislander Ferry - 1 x travel voucher valued at $500, leaving Wellington for Picton Friday 21 October 2016 and leaving Picton for Wellington Monday 24 October 2016 Quality Inn Nelson 3 x nights’ accommodation (two bedroom, share twin) Art Expo Nelson - 4 x tickets Nelson Arts Festival performance 4 x tickets World of WearableArt™ and Classic Cars Museum - 4 x tickets Cycle part of Tasman’s Great Taste Trail with bike hire for up to four people from Trail Journeys ENTER

To enter, go on line at www.neLsonnz.com/Win-a-Weekend

Some lesser known facts about Nelson Tasman:

Free phone: 0800 86 34 72 www.abeltasmancanyons.co.nz BOUTIQUE HOTEL ACCOMMODATION & RESTAURANT IN GOLDEN BAY

• New Zealand’s first ever rugby game was held in Nelson, in 1870 (14 May) • Nelson is the largest fishing port in Australasia • All of New Zealand’s commercially grown hops (essential for beer brewing) are grown in the Nelson region • More craft breweries per head of population than anywhere else in NZ • New Zealand’s oldest pub is the Moutere Inn, established in 1850 • The internationally acclaimed World of WearableArt™ Awards Show has its origins in the small Tasman community of Wakefield, where it began as a fundraiser for a local gallery in 1987 • Consistently one of the top three regions for annual sunshine hours in New Zealand, at some 2,500 per year • Farewell Spit in Golden Bay is the longest sand-spit in the Southern Hemisphere (around 30km above water) – a spectacular and unique environment which is also a Wetland of International Significance • Nelson has the southern hemisphere’s largest camping ground - Tahuna Beach Holiday Park has over 2,000 camp sites and motel units.

• ‘The One Ring’ - the ring used in the filming of The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit Trilogies - was made in Nelson by Jens Hansen, Gold and Silversmith.

(They actually created 40 different rings to be used in production!). Several filming locations for the movies are around the region • Home to approximately 300 artists’ galleries and studios • Some of the best (brown) trout fishing rivers in the world • Ernest Rutherford grew up in Brightwater and went to college in Nelson before going on to be the first person to split an atom and winning a Nobel Prize 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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Luminate your Life!

Looking for a fun, affordable summer camping holiday week with a difference? How about eight days of music, workshops, circus arts, holistic healing, and healthy food in natureâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most beautiful playground? If you like to relax, re-energise, dance, learn, meet new people, explore and laugh, enjoy world class music, or even seek quiet time in nature, then Luminate Festival 2017 has it all!

Located in a beautiful mountain environment, Luminate welcomes you into ancient beech forest and grassy meadows at Canaan Downs-Pikikirunga, Takaka Hill, Golden Bay. Luminate is a vibrant summer festival of cutting-edge live & electronic music, visual & performing arts, inspirational knowledge sharing, and pioneering environmental initiatives.

There are 5 zones of eclectic and stimulating music from renowned international and New Zealand musicians, live bands, electronic producers and DJs. Discover a myriad of genres such as world grooves, gypsy, mÄ ori-pacifica, celtic, folk, jazz, blues, dub, reggae, psytrance, house, techno, glitch-hop, midtempo, downbeat and lots more.

Luminate also offers a daily schedule of empowering & interactive workshops across 5 zones. The Circus-Space presents sessions for adults and children each day.

Ecological initiatives are fundamental at Luminate. There are composting toilets, solar showers, no rubbish bins or recycling, and no rubbish! BYO plate and cup for the market. Luminate is a family-friendly, non-alcohol event.

Luminate also offers a range of organic and vegetarian cafes, packed with nutritious menus from around the world and also a Village Market of arts, crafts and clothes.

Visit our website for full details on admission pricing and information: www.luminatefestival.co.nz or find us on Facebook for festival news www.facebook.com/LuminateFestival/

New Zealand's Most Scenic Skydive www.skydive.co.nz 94

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

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N EL S O N

Catch Smoke Feast!

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

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

Catch your own prime freshwater Chinook salmon, then watch as it is cleaned and prepared into fillets or steaks. You can also choose to get it

hot-smoked and served to you alongside your choice of delicious accompaniments including zesty coleslaw, hot garlic bread and delicious refreshments.

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

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

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

WILSONS ABEL TASMAN NATIONAL PARK Kayaking - Walking - Boats – Lodges

It’s so easy to create your ideal holiday in New Zealand’s finest coastal-national park.

Treat yourself! Speed and style with the best views and comfortable seating on upper and lower decks aboard our Vista Cruise. Pay the same fare as a water taxi. Stay onboard or choose a beach stop with walking and guided sea kayaking options.

Vista Cruise departs Kaiteriteri every day at 9.20 am. Returns 4.10 pm. Coach connections from Nelson and Motueka.

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

From 20 October 2016, the Vista Cruise has three departures so you can choose to spend the full day or just a morning or afternoon in the stunning National Park.

1. Depart Kaiteriteri 9.20 am, return 12.55 pm 2. Depart Kaiteriteri 1.00 pm, return 4.10 pm 3. Depart Kaiteriteri 4.15 pm, 6.00 pm Check out our website www.abeltasman.co.nz/a-day for our full range of walking and guided sea kayaking options.

For a real treat, take a three or five-day overnight break in the National Park staying at our beachfront lodges (Torrent Bay Lodge and Meadowbank Homestead - Awaroa). Don’t forget the ONBOARD promotion code for your discount.

Book online at www.abeltasman.co.nz or call our friendly reservations team for helpful advice 0800 223 582 (0800 ABELTAS)

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nelson

FASHION ON A DIFFERENT LEVEL

The spectacular World of WearableArt® (WOW®) is one of New Zealand’s most significant cultural success stories from over the past 27 years.

This unique annual event draws an audience of 58,000 people to Wellington and has encouraged an explosion of creative activity, inspiring a wide range of fashion designers, artists, costumemakers and many others to enter the World of WearableArt® Awards.

In the adjoining Classic Cars galleries, motoring enthusiasts can marvel at over 120 beautifully restored and original condition classic cars and motorcycles.

The car collection represents years of passionate sourcing from around the world and New Zealand.

The WOW® competition has resulted in a significant collection of four hundred and fifty award-winning wearable art garments. These works of wearable art are added to every year and at least seventy garments are displayed along with one of Australasia’s largest private car collections at the World of WearableArt® and Classic Cars Museum in Nelson.

Café

Housed in a purpose built, architecturally designed Museum these two exhibitions will take you beyond your imagination into a fantasy land.

The Museum successfully blends classic cars and the WearableArt® concept to provide a truly stunning visitor experience.

For the perfect end to the WOW® Museum experience visit the WOW® Café, treat yourself to freshly baked produce made with love onsite using local fresh ingredients, enjoy exquisite L’affare coffee.

Museum Shop

A visit to the shop offers a creative selection of jewellery, ceramics, books, gifts and local art. There is also an exclusive range of WOW® Merchandise.

We are open every day from 10am – 5pm except 25 December.

The Art of Performance New Exhibition Open Daily 10am-5pm 1 Cadillac Way, Annesbrook, Nelson

FIND OUT MORE GO TO: www.wowcars.co.nz

To Be Or Not To Be, Joanna Peacock, United Kingdom

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AUC K LAND

k aikoura

Coastal Kaikoura

BY JO MAY

Within Kaikoura, you will experience some of the most breathtaking scenery in the country with a stunning coastline, a dramatic peninsula and some of the South Islandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s highest mountains.

Photo: ChristchurchNZ.com

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kaiko u ra

Kaikoura has many land-based activities, visitors can explore the countryside on foot, horseback, hire a bike, take an off-road adventure, visit the farm parks, stroll through the lavender farm or treat themselves at the day spa. Those who enjoy walking and hiking, will find plenty of options - ranging from short strolls to multi-day hikes.

Kaikoura provides an unforgettable location to enjoy New Zealand’s best eco-tourism experiences, fascinating Māori and European histories, tracks and trails to explore, marine and land based activities for young and old.

Kaikoura’s coastal waters are home to an amazing array of marine mammals and birdlife. The famous resident sperm whales share this part of the ocean with the playful dusky dolphins and fur seals. 11 different species of albatross can be spotted amongst many other birdlife. The Hutton shearwater is an endangered seabird endemic to Kaikoura. The only place in the world that this species breeds is high in the Seaward Kaikoura Ranges at elevations between 1200 to 1800 meters. Mt Manakau is the highest mountain in the Seaward Kaikoura range at 2610 metres. To experience some of these encounters contact Whale Watch Kaikoura, Encounter Kaikoura and Kaikoura Kayaks.

Free activities include the spectacular Peninsula Walkway. The Kaikoura Peninsula Walkway an easy day walk at 5.6 km return from Point Kean to South Bay, or alternatively a loop track across the Peninsula farmland, is one of the best easy walks in the South Island. The trail skirts the cliffs over the Pacific Ocean adjacent to rolling farmland with the Kaikoura mountains behind. You can make a day of it, and enjoy a loop walk back through the township to explore the local restoration plantings and Kaikoura’s Trees for Travellers sites. Trees for Travellers is a program that was developed to help offset the carbon produced by visitors and residents to the Kaikoura District. This unique project gives you the opportunity to buy a native New Zealand tree, indigenous to Kaikoura, which is then planted for you on specially set-aside reserve land within the Kaikoura region. Self planting is also available. Trees for Travellers lets you leave a very special memento in Kaikoura.

With so much on offer Kaikoura is the unforgettable year round destination. From a short break to a whole week exploring, make sure you make the time to experience Kaikoura. Call in or contact the Kaikoura i-SITE, Information Centre, info@kaikoura.co.nz or check out www.kaikoura.co.nz come and share our piece of paradise.

New Zealand’s Ultimate Year Round Marine Experience

Freephone 0800 655 121

www.whalewatch.co.nz 98

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kaiko u ra

Kaikoura Kayaks spring marine life encounters Spring 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, halfday, 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 o u r n e w z e a l a n d.c o. n z

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AUCKL AND

NORTH CANTERBURY

FOOD & WINE TRAIL

hurunui

north canterbury

North Canterbury Spoilt for choice

When it comes to the great outdoors visitors to North Canterbury are spoilt for choice.

From miles of pristine, sandy beaches to forests and alpine springs – stunning scenery abounds. And there are activities to suit all tastes and ages from peaceful country walks to jet-boating, horse-riding and wine-tasting.

Walking

One of the best ways to soak up the sunshine, the scenery and the relaxing atmosphere of the region is to head out on some of the many walking tracks.

A bracing walk up to the summit of Mount Thomas will give you a spectacular view of patchwork green stretching all the way to the coastline at Pegasus Bay. This is the nearest forested conservation area to central Christchurch and covers over 10,000 hectares.

The nearby Oxford Conservation Area also offers walking and biking options including the popular Wharfedale Track. This 15km trail was originally formed as a route for livestock with the intention of one day making it a road, this never happened and today this trail provides a wonderful opportunity to immerse yourself in nature as it gently climbs up through beech forests.

Alternatively, head to Ashley Gorge where you’ll find idyllic riverside picnic spots surrounded by lush green forest. And, of course, on a warm day you can cool your toes in the crystal clear waters of the Ashley River. The river is also a popular spot with kayakers.

Further north in the Hurunui district you’ll find the vast, rugged beauty of the St James Conservation Area. Purchased by the government in 2008 in order to preserve its pristine and natural environment, this stunning reserve covers an 78,000 hectares with the Waiau River running through it. Its diverse landscape includes natural features such as glaciated valleys, streams, wetlands, lakes and picturesque tarns.

The spectacular landscape also offers an abundance of recreational activities. There are day long walking trails as well as multi-day trails for the more advanced trampers. Whilst cyclists are well catered for with a good choice of trails to suit most levels

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N O R T H C A N T E R B U RY

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as well as more wild terrain for mountain bikers. Throw in the mix opportunities to go kayaking, horse-riding, fishing and hunting and there really is something for everyone here.

On a smaller scale the Gore Bay Reserve offers a circuit walking track where you’re sure to spot friendly fantails and get a view of "The Cathedrals". These eroded siltstone pillars, are a typical example of what has come to be known as "badlands" landscape, after the famous American example.

Food and Wine Trail

Just 25 minutes from Christchurch, Woodend camp gets you in touch with nature with its 55 acres of park-like grounds full of birds and wildlife. Large camp sites and affordable cabins and motel, bbq area, three playgrounds and only a 5 minute walk to a beautiful sandy beach.

When you’ve worked up an appetite from all the fresh air and activity, you’ll be happy to find that the region is also a treasure trove of artisan food and wine producers many of whom are on the North Canterbury Food and Wine Trail.

The popular wine-growing area of Waipara boasts a host of beautiful vineyards. There are many award-winning wineries in the area that offer wine-tasting, delicious food and other activities. All of which can be found on the North Canterbury Food and Wine Trail (available from i-SITE Visitor Information Centres in the region).

But North Canterbury is also home to fresh flavours and fantastic food created by passionate people. You’ll find everything here from olive groves to picturesque village cafes and specialist bakeries, all creating mouthwatering goods and dishes from our fresh, flavoursome local produce.

And there are some surprises thrown in, drive through Woodend and you might spot Three Llamas Coffee House. This boutique coffee roastery imports ethically sourced coffee from one small corner of Northern Peru. The knowledgeable owners are a wealth of information on all things coffee and roast their beans on site. Perfect for that morning caffeine fix before heading out to discover the beautiful countryside of North Canterbury.

Farmers Markets

14 Woodend Beach Rd, Woodend Beach RD 1, Kaiapoi E: woodendbeachhp@xtra.co.nz P: 03 3127643

www.woodendbeachholidaypark.co.nz

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With such a wealth of food and wine producers, the region’s farmers markets are also a must visit. Friday morning’s Ohoka market is always bustling with locals and shoppers who make the 20-minute drive from Christchurch to stock up on some of the high-quality produce available direct from the sellers. You’ll find an abundance of fresh, seasonal produce from fruit and vegetables to venison and organic meats, local wines, pastries, breads and artisan cheeses. o u r n e w z e a l a n d.c o. n z

N O R T H C A N T E R B U RY

Weekend farmers markets also take place in Kaiapoi on Saturdays and Oxford on Sundays. Whilst, further north, the popular Waipara Valley farmers market takes place on Saturday mornings in the popular rural town of Amberley.

The Hurunui District, just a 45-minute drive from Christchurch, also boasts the popular Hanmer Springs. A beautiful, tree-lined avenue leads into the heart of this charming alpine village where you’ll find plenty to tempt you to stay from boutique shopping to award-winning restaurants and accommodation.

Bustling Towns

It is also home to the world-renowned Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools and Spa which includes more than 15 outdoor thermal, sulphur and freshwater pools as well as the fun of the hydro slide.

The spa also offers the ideal tranquil retreat for a bit of pampering with an extensive list of treatments including massages and facials.

The region’s towns also offer their own rural charms. From the beautiful English village of Oxford nestled in the rolling green foothills of the Southern Alps, to the picturesque charm of riverside Kaiapoi and the bustling town of Rangiora – you’ll find boutique shopping, charming cafes and welcoming people.

FOR A UNIQUE NZ BACK COUNTRY EXPERIENCE

WHITE WATER RAFTING HUNTING & FISHING DINING & RELAXING CORPORATE FUNCTIONS FAMILY RAFT TRIPS STOCKISTS OF HENNESSY HAMMOCKS

0800RAFTNZ www.southernwhitewater.com o u r n e w z e a l a n d.c o. n z

christchurch. nz

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Events

As if all this wasn’t enough the region is also home to a full calendar of exciting events.

From the annual Muscle Car Madness in Rangiora to country charm and crafts at the Culverden Fete one of New Zealand’s biggest and most popular country fetes. Whilst unique events like Art in the Garden display works from talented artists in one of the region’s most beautiful garden.

And, if you’re lucky you might also find that your visit coincides with one of the A & P shows in our rural towns. These quintessentially kiwi events have a long tradition and are billed as being where town meets country. Here you’ll find plenty of stalls selling food, wine and gifts alongside livestock parades, shearing demonstrations and dog trials and much more. The A & P shows are full of surprises and give a real flavour of rural New Zealand.

So, if you’re looking for a genuine slice of New Zealand life – bursting with stunning natural sights, charming rural towns, fine food and wine and plenty of fun, head for North Canterbury. You’ll be sure of a warm welcome.

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Hanmer Springs

New Zealand’s alpine spa village – an absolute must-do Just 90 minutes’ easy drive from Christchurch you’ll find Hanmer Springs, a village quite unlike other small towns in New Zealand.

Surrounded by mountains and forests, with giant redwood trees and boutique shops lining its main street, Hanmer Springs offers everything a visitor expects from a South Island holiday… 100% pure New Zealand scenery, adventure tourism, warm kiwi hospitality and cafes and restaurants serving the country’s best food and wine.

Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools and Spa sits at the heart of the village, an award-winning complex with natural, mineral-rich waters that are warmed by heat from the earth’s core – a process that takes 173 years.

You can sit and soak in the famous waters amid native gardens, have waterfalls and spouts massage your aches and pains away or unleash some energy in the fantastic leisure area (complete with hydroslides and the South Island’s only aquatic thrill ride, the SuperBowl!).

Come visit – you’ll soon see why this is one of the South Island’s best destinations and why this small village (population less than 1,000) attracts more than half a million visitors every year. www.hanmersprings.co.nz

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A K A R OA

Charming Akaroa Nestled at the foot of an ancient crater, the historic seaside village of Akaroa is home to 632 permanent residents. The village itself is a wonderful mix of French culture and New Zealand heritage, dotted with charming old cottages and villas, little galleries and gift shops and lovely cafes, bars and restaurants.

Akaroa has an enormous range of activities which makes it an ideal multi-day destination. If you’re keen to meet our marine and wildlife, then a 4WD guided tour out to Flea Bay is a must – here you’ll be greeted by hundreds of little blue penguins who call this place ‘home’. Akaroa harbour is also a haven to Hectors dolphins, New Zealand’s rarest and smallest marine dolphins.

You can watch them or swim with them with Black Cat Cruises or perhaps kayak alongside them with a kayak company.

There are cruises, sail boats, cycle tours, mail runs and an excellent range of walking tracks catering to all levels of fitness and ability.

By now you’ll have worked up an appetite – and Akaroa is the perfect place to be hungry! The peninsula is a food bowl – boasting some of New Zealand’s finest produce. New Zealand’s best olive oils, Takamatua smoked salmon, Canterbury lamb, Barrys Bay Cheeses, French Farm wine and seafood plucked from the water in the morning and on your plate by dinner time!

Barrys Bay Cheese comes from the fertile pastures of Banks

Peninsula, sourced from local milk from grass fed cows to make handcrafted cheese fresh each day. Cafes and restaurants cater to all tastes and they focus on French cuisine.

Discover Eyris Blue Pearls® which are exclusive to the shores of New Zealand and originate from New Zealand 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.

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.

Akaroa: Home of the Original Blue Pearl

Blue Pearl Gallery Akaroa Harbour Wharf, Akaroa 7520 P: 03 304 7262 E: pearls@nzbluepearls.co.nz www.nzbluepearls.co.nz Blue Pearl Gallery

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M ack e nzi e /Ao raki

AORAKI MOUNT COOK Magical Land

BY JO MAY

Church of the Good Shepherd - Tekapo. Photo: ChristchurchNZ.com

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 snow-capped 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.

Aoraki Mount Cook is truly unforgettable. Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park is part of UNESCO's Te WÄ hipounamu World Heritage region. Australasia's highest mountain Aoraki / Mount Cook (3,724m) is nestled here in the splendid Southern Alps.

Pampering is also available at Tekapo Springs, relax in the hot pools set against a stunning mountainous backdrop or glide around the ice-skating rink. Step it up with an adrenaline filled tube ride. There is something for every member of the family.

According to NgÄ i 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.

Nothing can describe the beauty that awaits you in the Mackenzie region and that beauty doesn't stop when the sun goes down.

After a day of checking out the panoramic vista of Mount John, hiking around the lakeshore of Tekapo and pampering yourself at Tekapo Springs, you will be awe-struck by the vast beauty of New Zealand's night-sky at the Earth and Sky observatory tours.

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.

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. The Hermitage Hotel is the perfect place to stay and base your adventures and discover the region.

You'll be captivated by the stunning scenery and exhilarated by the range of outdoor adventures this spectacular region offers.

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relax, soak & family fun Tekapo Springs

Located at the base of Mt. John and overlooking Lake Tekapo, Tekapo Springs is a yearround attraction that provides recreation and relaxation all in one destination. Have a soak in our five heated pools or watch the kids splash about in our new Kid’s Aqua Play area. To really take advantage of our services, book in for a treatment at our Glacial Day Spa and enjoy a meal or coffee at our fully-licensed café & bar. In the summer we open the TRIPPO; New Zealand’s biggest inflatable waterslide standing at 11 metres high! And winter brings even more excitement with our Snow Tube Park and international-sized skating rink.

Bookings for single passes and combos can be made via our website www.tekaposprings.co.nz

Take to the sky with Air Safaris

If your time in the South is limited or you’re keen for a different view of the area then you need to visit Air Safaris.

Air Safaris have been operating scenic flights in and around the area since 1970 and are now one of New Zealand’s largest scenic flying companies. With their airport situated on the main highway between Christchurch and Queenstown, just 4km to the West of the Tekapo Township it is the ideal place to stop and explore the mountains from.

Air Safaris scenic flight options cater to all needs and group sizes and showcase the very best of

the Mackenzie basin with its turquoise lakes and golden tussocks, the National Parks with their snowy high peaks and glacier wonderland and the lush forests of the West Coast – there is something for everyone.

Flights operate every day of the year, except Christmas day and depending on the weather, flights depart hourly. The airport offers plenty of free parking, toilets, WiFi and coffee facilities along with a comfy area to relax and enjoy the views. Bookings and information can be made at the Air Safaris sales office, located centrally in the Lake Tekapo Township or by visiting their website. www.airsafaris.co.nz Experience the flight of a lifetime with Air Safaris.

LAKE TEKAPO

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!

MT JOHN TWILIGHT AND NIGHT TOURS

Join us for our famous Observatory Tour. We provide transport, equipment and guidance. Navigate your way around the Southern Sky using powerful lasers, while telescopes unlock familiar planets through to rich star clusters.

BOOKING IS ADVISED For more details call 03 680 6960 or email: info@earthandsky co.nz www.earthandsky.co.nz

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WEST COAST

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Unplugging nature’s best-kept secrets CHRIS Birt

It’s often been said that a lot can be learned from history.

Fortunately today’s travellers do not have to go back far to uncover history relevant to their dreams and desires. And if there is one place in New Zealand that delivers history lessons to the max it’s the West Coast of the Southern Alps.

Just over 150 years ago intrepid travellers from all four corners of the globe upped sticks and stampeded their way to this rugged region, at that time virtually unknown and previously visited by just a handful of very hardy European explorers.

It was 1864 when gold fever took hold, with hopes of unimaginable riches in the minds of many as they surged, in wave after incessant wave, to a rugged strip of land hidden by wild river gorges and deep ravines from the rest of the world.

Experience soon taught those who were writing a new chapter in the history of the West Coast that often the glistening specks of golden ore they thirsted for - and nuggets of a more majestic stature - were to be found not on the surface, but below it.

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Those taking a similar journey today have good reason to learn from those early pioneers of travel. In this region, there are many more gems to be found by looking beyond the obvious. Little nuggets, delivered as experiences and adventures, can be readily accessed by delving a little deeper.

The West Coast of the land the indigenous Māori called Aotearoa is indeed a gold mine and not only because of the history and heritage to be found among its many nooks and crannies.

The pancake rocks of Punakaiki - at high tide these layered structure produce water spouts akin to those emitted by whales as they broach the surface - and the giant slowly-creeping walls of ice in Glacier Country are iconic attractions for those visiting the West Coast, and rightly so.

But there are many other attractions, made by human hand as well as by Mother Nature herself, that provide the very best reason to stay a while, and then some.

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W E S T C OA S T

and forgotten valleys all combine to provide unforgettable experiences, no matter which form of transport one opts for.

The Oparara Arches honeycomb caves, contained within the Kahurangi National Park at the northern extremity of The Coast, should be a must-see for any intrepid traveller too. These vast caverns, carved into 35 million year old limestone walls by the incessant movement of water, are a spectacle to behold. The work of the Oparara River can be seen in the intriguing complex of caves, arches and channels, with so many hues of colour, especially around the entrances where unique ferns and algae flourish.

The Oparara Basin is just 20 kilometres north of the small, historical coastal settlement of Karamea and is easily accessed by walkers, cavers and other nature lovers.

One of The Coast’s newest attractions is actually a reinvention of an old one and experiencing it can be done on two wheels, or two feet. Located in the north western sector, the Old Ghost Road follows the paths of long-forgotten gold miner’s routes and can be ridden in part or in full, with its 85 kilometres constituting a multi-day mountainbiking expedition which will linger long after the wheels stop turning.

For those who opt to stay more connected to terra firma, the Old Ghost Road has been designed to cater for walkers as well. The native rainforest, tussock topped slopes, river flats, tight gorges

While the gold rush of the 1860s features so prominently in this region today - so many of its towns and villages were created during what turned out to be a short-lived love affair with the elusive pay dirt - another precious commodity played an equally important role in how the West was won.

Coal mining took place over much of this thin ribbon of land squeezed between the raging waters of the Tasman Sea and the mountains and rainforests on the lower extremities of the Southern Alps. Many relics of an era that lasted infinitely longer are to be seen, but there is nowhere on The Coast that provides a window-look into the lives of those who toiled to extract that

Enjoy a fully guided authentic, interactive and unique journey into Banbury Coal Mine, the first of the historic 1880s Denniston coal mines.

Take a train ride along the old coal transport road high above the Waimangaroa Gorge to the mine portal from where you’ll walk 200 metres into Banbury. See the old drives at the original height, touch the coal seam, get close and personal with the glow worms.

Audio and visuals bring the experience alive with sights and sounds from a working 1880s coal mine.

Tour options are either 40 minutes or 2 hours.

2 Hour Quad Adventure Driver (16 yrs+) $160 Passenger (8 yrs+) $70

Buggy Adventure Passenger $70 SUITABLE FOR CHILDREN 3 YEARS AND OVER

PLEASE INQUIRE ABOUT OUR COMBOS. We offer Helicopter, Plane and Skydive deals!

P: 0800 881 880 E: info@denniston.co.nz

www.denniston.co.nz S H 6 7 , 30 MINS N ORT H O F WESTPO RT

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.

Main Road, State Highway 6, Franz Josef West Coast P: 0800 234 288 w w w. acrosscountr yquadbikes.co.nz

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black ‘gold’ from the ground better than on the Denniston Plateau.

Described by those who lived and worked high above the coastline as a place either loved or loathed - but no matter which it was with passion - the Denniston Plateau hosted one of the richest seams of high quality coal in New Zealand. For decades it was the largest producer of coal in the country.

Standing at the top of the incline - once labelled the eighth wonder of the world and recognised internationally as an engineering feat of epic proportions - provides a real perspective of what man did to get coal out of the ground and on its way to market. The Denniston Incline fell 510 metres over 1.7 kilometres, with the brakes on 12 tonne wagons having to be cooled by water as they accelerated to 80 kilometres an hour on their mad dash for the flat country below.

The Denniston Experience is an attraction that provides visitors with the chance to roll up their sleeves and to get a taste of what life was like for the 1500 tough men, the womenfolk who kept them fed and watered, and the children who grew up in one of the harshest physical environments experienced, from 1867 onward.

A hop, skip and jump away from the small riverside settlement of Westport is another delightful spot - one which provides a magnificent marine environment. Cape Foulwind was originally called Rocky Cape by the Dutch explorer Abel Tasman, the first European to set eyes on New Zealand. His expedition reached this point in 1642. Almost 130 years later, Tasman’s British

ION MENT T TIME Y AD A THIS KING AN O O O T OF B E ROOM T E PRIVA E A FRE V L I RECE INENTA T CON AKFAST R B E 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 /

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Freecall 0800 873 346 /

Phone: +64 3 752 0220 /

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www.rainforestretreat.co.nz

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counterpart, Captain James Cook, gave this prominent headland its current name, occasioned by battling to get back to the coast after his ship Endeavour was blown well offshore - and off course.

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

Cape Foulwind is the starting point for a lovely coastal track that conveys visitors to the Tauranga Bay marine wildlife sanctuary, where fur seals frolic, feed and fraternise in one of the biggest mainland breeding colonies in the country. In late November, the gorgeous furry little seal pups begin to arrive, adding another dimension to this crowded colony, but any time of the year is a good time to visit because the females never leave, apart from making regular expeditions into the Tasman Sea to feed.

Alongside the seals live the endemic Hector’s Dolphins and other species such as orca, known as killer whales. Though small in numbers, other species of the ocean giants, such as Southern Right Whales, are increasingly being seen in the area too. Like every aspect of the marine world, it’s a question of luck in what can be seen, but the one and a half hour return walk to Tauranga Bay is an easy jaunt and well worth the effort.

Just 30 kilometres south of Westport is yet another of The Coast’s magic attractions, the small settlement of Charleston. Founded during the gold rush of the 1860s, it is now an adventure tourism settlement, the base for operators specialising in caving and tube rafting.

The stunning limestone caves of the nearby Nile River valley - glow-worms in their millions populate the vast caverns in

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!

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

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

Open 7 days 8.30am - 5.00pm.

Phone 03 762 6634 shantytown.co.nz

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this area - provide opportunity for a myriad of memories, not to overlook the photo opportunities that abound at every turn.

The Nile River rainforest train, cave rafting and adventure caving, together with glow-worm tours are all operated by Norwest Underwater Adventures, based at the Charleston Adventure Centre and Café. Scratching below the surface is not needed in this case, as this long-established operator provides subterranean experiences that remain indelibly etched in the memory banks of everyone who delves into this stunning hidden world.

Inland, on State Highway 7, sits another settlement with a big history - one that will light up any visit to the West Coast. Like so many of its counterparts up and down The Coast, Reefton wrote itself into the history books - this time by constructing the first municipal electricity supply in the southern hemisphere. Not only did it beat the major cities, such as Auckland and Christchurch, to turn night into day on street corners, but it ‘saw the light’ ahead of the fashionable suburbs of London and New York. The year was 1888, just 12 years after the gold rush brought a huge surge in the population, new-found wealth for many and a technological boom.

The Town of Light museum, located at Black’s Point, offers a memorable experience, even for those who don’t consider themselves history buffs. It’s fascinating. School records, accounts of cemeteries - and their permanent residents - town directories, historical photos and all kinds of mining memorabilia combine to leave travellers enlightened and entertained. The water-driven stamper battery used in the 1870s to smash quartz and release its golden contents is yet another working example of how things were back in the day.

Up and down the West Coast of the South Island, off-the-track, out-of-the-way experiences and adventures abound. The region just oozes opportunity for intrepid travellers who want to break the mould, do more, see more and experience more.

Scheduling a visit to this rugged region, jammed packed with history and heritage, along with the wild and the wonderful, is a necessary first step. Leaving enough time is the key to getting the Most from the Coast. No visit to these parts should ever be rushed because there is so much to see and do in such a relatively small area.

The main message is clear - there are good reasons to delve below the surface. The opportunities to create great memories are to be found lurking in such places and after all, discovering the secret gems of a destination is a big part of any travel experience.

AUCKL AND

imagine yourself here and your cares a million miles away GLACIER HOT POOLS

The Glacier Hot Pools are six hours drive from Christchurch.

Located at Franz Josef Glacier, with 3 invitingly warm public pools, 3 secluded private pools, and onsite massage all nestled amidst the rugged West Coast rainforest.

Franz Josef Glacier | West Coast | Freephone: 0800 044 044 | www.glacierhotpools.co.nz A true NZ experience fromâ&#x20AC;Ś

AUCKL AND

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…

L AKE WANAK A

AUC K LAND

Delightful Wanaka

BY JO MAY

Lake Wanaka. Photo by Geoff Marks

Where else in the world can you ski all morning, bike down the mountain and head to the lake for a waterski in the afternoon? Only in the Lake Wanaka region where the magic of spring offers visitors the most diverse season of the year.

Skiing in the sunshine, stopping to take snap pictures of new born lambs on the way up to the ski areas, it all feels a little surreal, but it’s one of my favourite times to ski. There’s still plenty of snow and the conditions are typically fantastic. Bluebird days are the norm and the odd fresh dump brings soft powder to a well-packed base. Local ski areas Treble Cone and Snow Farm are open throughout September and into early October as is Cardrona Alpine Resort. Perfectly coinciding with the September school holidays means more family skiing before the season ends and the good weather means that off-mountain days can be spent biking, hiking, kayaking, boating, or simply soaking up the spring sunshine on the beach with scrumptious local wines, beers and tasty takeaways.

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.

Discover Mt Aspiring National Park, home to some of the best day and half day walks in the country. Trails like Roy’s Peak, Rocky Mountain, and the Rob Roy Glacier Track, vary in degrees of difficulty and boast iconic views, globally recognised for their breath-taking beauty.

Getting back to nature has never been easier in this region of soaring mountains. For the keen hiker there are several

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L A K E WA N A K A

Situated on the spectacular Crown Range Road between Queenstown and Wanaka, the Cardrona Hotel is one of New Zealandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s oldest and most iconic hotels. Its rustic charm, stunning mountain setting and rich history make it a must see while in Central Otago.

Cardrona Hotel - Geoff Marks

Wanaka Heights Wanaka Heights Motel is situated on a highrise with panoramic views overlooking the town, lake & mountains and only a 3-4 min walk to the restaurants, cafes, bars and lake walks. The main ski-fields are a 35 minute drive and a 1hour drive over the scenic Crown Range road to Queenstown.

Their accommodation has stunning alpine views to Lake Wanaka and the mountains, each with their own balcony or patio with outside furniture. They also have 2 studio motel units and 8 family motel units each with kitchen facilities, ensuite bathrooms, telephone and wireless internet access. Each motel has flatscreen SKY TV and wall heating. They have a guest barbecue area and a pathway through their garden leads to the main road down into Lake Wanaka township.

www.wanakaheightsmotel.co.nz

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.

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.

FREE WIFI Reservations toll free 0800194452 E: info@wanakaheightsmotel.co.nz

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

For those of the two wheeled persuasion Wanaka boasts 750km of bike tracks and trails, with everything from gentle lakeside cycling, flowing single track, through to New Zealand’s highest downhill heli-biking experience.

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.

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.

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 After all that activity a wine tour is great way to wind down and experience a taste of Central Otago. Take a personalised wine tour with owner operators who are passionate about wine and food. Their comprehensive knowledge of the region, the wines and, most importantly, the people who make this one of the world’s greatest wine regions, mean their tours are imbued with passion and a deeply personal touch.

For further information, visit lakewanaka.co.nz

THIS IS life SPECTACULAR LAKE AND MOUNTAIN VIEWS ONLY 1 MINUTE WALK TO LAKE AND TOWN CENTRE GUEST KITCHEN, LAUNDRY & FREE WIFI ONSITE CAFE, BAR AND RESTAURANTS

$30 off camera work

71 Ardmore Street, Wanaka

P: 0800 473 288

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

Book online and use promo code LIFEGOALS to receive $30 OFF Camera Work.

(Cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer)

skydivewanaka.com

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Queenstown adventure town

BY JO MAY

BRING THE WHOLE FAMILY Enquire today about our family offer.

BOOK NOW

Phone: 0800 802 804 www.shotoverjet.com Paragliding from Bobs Peak courtesy of QueenstownNZ.com

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Bursting with fresh Spring buds, surrounded by snow-capped peaks and nestled by the crystal waters of Lake Wakatipu, Queenstown is where you can soak up the best of Spring.

Longer days bring warmer temperatures ranging between 8 – 22 degrees celsius, meaning springtime visitors can pack more into every day. Enjoy the region’s bright Spring colours with a round of golf or a cycle tour or make the most of the snow with fun Spring skiing and riding at any of the region’s four diverse ski areas through until early October.

Queenstown’s cycling and walking tracks offer incredible vantage points to welcome the arrival of spring to the landscape across the region. The Queenstown Trail covers over 110km of terrain suitable for cycling or walking. Most of the trail is undulating and suitable for beginner to intermediate level bike riders.

The pioneering spirit of the people who call Queenstown home has fostered a culture of innovation and adventure, making it the birthplace of many world-first adventure activities. It’s a great place to tick a few things off your adventure bucket list in majestic style like bungy-jumping, jet boating, skydiving, white water rafting, paragliding, dirt biking and four-wheel driving.

Queenstown’s sophisticated CBD is compact and easy to navigate with a combination of international chain stores, locally run boutiques, art galleries and gift shops.

If all the wine tasting and shopping has you thinking about food there’s over 150 eateries in Queenstown and nearby Arrowtown.

The warmer days also mean dining alfresco is an ideal way to enjoy the spring sunshine. You can treat your taste buds to a world of flavours from local Kiwi fare to Malaysian, Indian, Italian and South American. Finz Seafood & Grill offers a glorious view with great food and wine to match. Or why not try the new and exciting Coalfire Barbeque Bar will be offering food that’s flavoured by fire!

Go with the flow, leave with the memories

In downtown Queenstown, nightlife is fun, vibrant and eclectic.

Around one corner there are stylish bars and sophisticated clubs, while around the next you’ll find pubs and late night hot spots with DJs and busy dance floors.

An awe inspiring journey into the Te Wai Pounamu World Heritage Area.

For a taste of award-winning wine, a short drive from the centre of town will take you to Gibbston, a sub-region of Central Otago, and the southernmost wine growing region in the world, with more than 200 vineyards.

BOOK NOW!

The area is known in particular for its Pinot Noir variety and top growing conditions mean the area has more than its fair share of award-winning vintages. Wine tours are a great way to discover the wineries and vineyards. Spend an afternoon soaking up the scenery, sampling a Pinot Noir, and nibbling a gourmet platter of local produce al fresco, surrounded by spring blooms.

0800 327853 www.dartriver.co.nz

There’s plenty to explore in Queenstown’s surrounds too. A short 20 minute drive from Queenstown is the beautiful old goldmining village of Arrowtown - a trip worth its weight in gold. o u r n e w z e a l a n d.c o. n z

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Not your usual walk in the park

The old wharf, Steamer Wharf Queenstown converted into an area for restaurants and bars. With a bustling evening atmosphere both in and around the wharf, this is the place to come in search of restaurants.

In 1862 the cry of “gold” brought thousands of miners to the Arrow River, one of the world’s richest sources of alluvial gold. At the height of the rush, the population swelled to 7,000 and a settlement sprang up on the banks of the river.

Located in the spectacular Fiordland National Park the Hollyford Track is one of the greatest guided walks in New Zealand.

In three days you will transect the Hollyford Valley by foot, jetboat and helicopter. Your expert guide will bring to life the diversity of landscape, wildlife and stories of early Māori and Pioneering families and you’ll enjoy first rate cuisine, personal service and comfortable private lodges in New Zealand’s most beautiful valley.

Freephone 0800 832 226 www.hollyfordtrack.com

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Through careful preservation the legacy of the early settlers has been retained and created a fascinating, picturesque town where the past and present seamlessly blend.

Arrowtown is now a treasure in its own right with quaint tree-lined streets, old miners’ cottages, a restored Chinese Village and the Lakes District Museum, which is the focal point for the rich history of the town and surrounding areas.

Sophisticated in its appeal, the cobbled main street, fine clothing stores, art studios and galleries, discerning accommodation, outstanding café and restaurant culture, traditional pubs and boutique bars create a unique ambience that captivates visitors and residents alike.

Taking a walk along the surrounding streets will reveal lovingly tended gardens blooming with spring bulbs and blossoming trees from October.

Head in the other direction out of Queenstown and a true slice of paradise sits a spectacular 45-minute drive west at the end of Lake Wakatipu. Bordered by Te Wahipounamu, the South West New Zealand World Heritage Area, the frontier town of Glenorchy is the gateway to some of New Zealand’s most incredible scenery and its towering mountains, ancient beech forests and glacial fed rivers have provided inspirational backdrops in many films including the Lord of the Rings trilogy.

The drive from Queenstown to Glenorchy offers breathtaking views of hanging valleys, glaciers, islands and sheer mountains. Once there, the village offers several dining and accommodation options, a visitor centre, garage and general store. Glenorchy is also a hub for adventures like wilderness jetboating, horse riding, fishing, and kayaking and is the jump-off point for some of New Zealand’s multi-day Great Walks such as the Milford, Routeburn and the popular Caples and Greenstone tracks, which can also be sampled on a day trip.

At the southernmost end of Lake Wakatipu is the pretty township of Kingston. The 47km lakeside drive from Queenstown is a stunning, winding road that follows Lake Wakatipu and The Remarkables mountain range toward Te Anau. Kingston’s lakeside setting and relaxed vibe also offers activities like walking tracks, boating and fishing, golf and bowling. o u r n e w z e a l a n d.c o. n z

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Photo: QueenstownNZ.com

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

@coalfireqt

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 If golf is your thing book a round at Jack's Point Golf. One of the most spectacular in the world.

platter, a hearty steak or enjoy classic Kiwi fish and chips.

Finding a spot to rest easy after a day of fun activities is easy in Queenstown.

Accommodation ranges from budget to five-star, with international chains of hotels and motels alongside backpacker properties, B&Bs, and luxury lodges. No matter if you choose to stay within walking distance of Queenstown or venture further out, you’ll find friendly hosts and spectacular views.

So if you have an appetite for adventure or are more at home tracking down a delicious meal and fine wine, this vibrant, welcoming and energetic resort town is big enough to offer a wide range of accommodation, activities, events, eateries and bars, yet small enough to make you feel like you belong.

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

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

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motive power How many, how big, how fast, how heavy?

Interislander has a fleet of 3 ships â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Kaitaki, Aratere and Kaiarahi

KAITAKI

ARATERE

KAIARAHI

KAITAKI

MEANING - CHALLENGER BUILT

Holland,1995

FLAG

British

PASSENGER CAPACITY

1650

GROSS TONNAGE

22,365 tonnes

LENGTH

181.6m

BREADTH

23.4m

SPEED

20.5 knots

MAIN ENGINES

4x Sulzer type: 8 ZAL 40S 5760kw each at 510rpm

ARATERE

MEANing - quickpath BUILT

Spain, 1998

FLAG

New Zealand

PASSENGER CAPACITY

600

GROSS TONNAGE

17,816 tonnes

LENGTH

183.7m

BREADTH

20.3m

SPEED

19.5 knots

ENGINES

Four Wartsila 8L32 od 3680KW Each coupled to ABB alternators Of 3,300 volts at 50Hz Plus tow Wartsila 8L20 of 1600 KW Each

KAIARAHI

MEANING - LEADER / GUARDIAN BUILT

Seville, Spain 1998

FLAG

United Kingdom

PASSENGER CAPACITY

550

GROSS TONNAGE

22,152 tonnes

LENGTH

180m

breadth

25m

SPEED

19 knots

ENGINES

Four Diesel Engines, Wartsilla 9L38, four-stroke, of 5,940kW each at 600rpm, burning 380 cSt fuel at 50 degrees celcius with twin c/p screw arrangement. Two pairs of engines connected through De Schelde Rduction Gear with Vulkan Couplings to a Wartsila Wichmann Controllable Pitch Propeller, type PR130 4H with diameter 4,850mm and 138 rpm

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AUCKL AND

How many, how big, how fast, how heavy?

A variety of different locomotives will be the driving force for your Scenic Journey, depending on a number of factors including which journey you are on and the size of the train.

DC LOCOMOTIVE

DIESEL ELECTRIC MAINLINE PASSENGER & FREIGHT LOCOMOTIVE NUMBER IN SERVICE

71

ENGINE TYPE

EMD 12/645E

POWER OUTPUT

1500HP traction / 1650HP gross

GEAR RATIO

63.14

DRIVING WHEEL DIAMETER

1022mm

MAX TRACTIVE EFFORT

145kN

MAXIMUM SPEED

100kph

WEIGHT IN SERVICE

82 tonnes

DFT LOCOMOTIVE

DIESEL ELECTRIC MAINLINE PASSENGER & FREIGHT LOCOMOTIVE NUMBER IN SERVICE

30

ENGINE TYPE

GM 12/645E3C

POWER OUTPUT

2250HP traction / 2450HP gross

GEAR RATIO

57.16

DRIVING WHEEL DIAMETER

940mm

MAX TRACTIVE EFFORT

270kN

MAXIMUM SPEED

113kph

WEIGHT IN SERVICE

87.6 tonnes

DX LOCOMOTIVE

DIESEL ELECTRIC MAINLINE PASSENGER & FREIGHT LOCOMOTIVE NUMBER IN SERVICE

46

ENGINE TYPE

GE 7FDL12

POWER OUTPUT

3150HP traction / 3300HP gross

GEAR RATIO

93.18

DRIVING WHEEL DIAMETER

940mm

MAX TRACTIVE EFFORT

370kN

MAXIMUM SPEED

106kph

WEIGHT IN SERVICE

99.9 tonnes

EF LOCOMOTIVE

MAINLINE ELECTRIC LOCOMOTIVE NUMBER IN SERVICE

17

POWER OUTPUT

3MW

GEAR RATIO

74.17

DRIVING WHEEL DIAMETER

1100 - 1000mm

MAX TRACTIVE EFFORT

300kN

MAXIMUM SPEED

110kph

WEIGHT IN SERVICE

108 tonnes

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your onboard maps KAITAKI Deck 2

deck 7

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 the shop.

1) 6 5

7 7

Food Court – Mouth-watering selection

of light snacks and hot meals.4Hot breakfast served up to 10.30am. Hot meals available from 10.45am, includes a dish of the day, fish & chips, curry and roast meal. Beverages include filter coffee, tea, juice, soft drinks, beer and wine.

8

2)

2

1 9

Lookout Atrium – The “Lookout” offers café style seating with great views.

10

Luggage Lockers

33

6

Deck 7 Shop: An on-board shop to purchase phone cards, magazines, confectionery and souvenirs. Buy your movie and Premium 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) Premium 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 to sit back and relax.

9) Cabins – Passenger cabins with an en-suite are available to hire. Please enquire at the shop.

10) Reception 3) 6

Karori Rip Bar – Relaxed atmosphere, serving espresso coffee & local wines, beers, and spirits.

A selection of foods is available at peak times.

The Karori Rip Bar features wide screen plasma TVs and there are often local bands performing.

Deck 8 deck 8

11

98

9 10

No. 1 Truck Stop

878

10 6

Deck 8 11) 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 plasma 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 – The 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

Deck 10

Main outside viewing deck. Smoking is permitted on Deck 7 portside.

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 the shop.

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 the cartoon channel, a nursery and family seating.

Passenger lounge – A large space to find a seat and relax throughout the journey

Deck 5

Driver’s Driver’s Mess Room Accommodation

Pencarrow lounge

deck 4 Access to Vehicle Deck MES

6

4

5

3

MES

Passenger Entry/Exit

*

Muster Stations

deck 5

Premium 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.

8) Observation deck (4,5,&6) – A great place to enjoy the magnificent views of Wellington Harbour, Cook Strait and The Marlborough Sounds. Seating is also provided on the deck.

9) Pencarrow Lounge – Relax in the comfort of this lounge.

7)

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8

8

7

9

Driver’s Driver’s Mess Room Accommodation

Pencarrow lounge

89

Access to Vehicle Deck MES

o uorn u renwz e wezaelaan l ad.c n d.c o. o. nzn z

MES

Passenger Entry/Exit

*

Muster Stations

2

1

8

OUR N EW Z E AL AN D AUC K LAND

KAIARAHI Deck 7

deck 7

Hector’s Store and Café – 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.

2) Nurseries – Available for families traveling with infants. Cots and changing facilities provided.

3) 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.

4) Play area – A great area for kids aged 3-10 to play.

5) No.1 Truck Stop – a lounge reserved for truck drivers. ID’s are required for this area.

6) 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. The Please enquire at the shop.

1)

8

7

9 6

6

4

6

5

Deck 8

deck 8

7) Embarking & Disembarking Wellington

8) 1

9)

2

Embarking & Disembarking Picton

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 on-board shop to purchase phone cards, 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 plasma TV’s and there are often local bands performing.

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 with a focus on maximising the spectacular views on offer.

Main carriages A • 39 seats configured around shared tables B• 28 airline-style seats with fold-down trays

Accessibility • 2 dedicated wheelchair spaces in dining area of café carriage • Accessible toilet with baby change table in café carriage C • 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

• Above seat coat rack with integrated reading lights • Large panoramic and sky-view windows E• Toilet

C

A

B

A

C

WATCH YOUR STEP

WATCH YOUR STE P

Entertainment • GPS-activated commentary system at every seat. (English or Mandarin) • GPS-activated route map on central screens

E

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AUCKL AND

Handy travel apps for your New Zealand tour 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

Kids’ activity packs

Our exciting new kids’ activity packs are now available! The packs are fun and educational, and are recommended for children aged between 3 to 14 years of age. Not only will they keep the family entertained during the journey, thanks to the sturdy zip-up case they also make a perfect take-home memento of your travel with KiwiRail Scenic.

The packs include: -- Playing cards

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.

3. Navfree GPS

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.

4. AirBnB

1. Essential New Zealand App

5. Viber

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

6. TRAVEL 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.

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

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.

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.

Interislander Travel guide app is sponsored

by Tourism Radio and is packed with over 800 interesting local and nationwide facets. It holds information about your location and places of interest as you approach your destination throughout New Zealand. The guide also highlights places to stay and eat, as well as places of cultural and historical significance.

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

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-- Colouring-in activities and pencils -- An activity book including puzzles and quizzes -- Origami -- Stickers -- Sturdy zip-up case Activity packs are available to purchase from the café and are subject to availability, please enquire with your on-board crew.

$1399

AUC K LAND

10

SPECIAL OFFER

* % OFF

Terms and Conditions apply

*Discount available online only. Enter the code SPRING1 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 September - 15 December 2016. Our New Zealand magazine must be presented at terminal check-in. Terms and conditions apply.

Book now at Interislander.co.nz o u r n e w z e a l a n d.c o. n z

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AUCKL AND

ENJOY SOME DOWNTIME CROSSWORD

Working to ensure a safe and comfortable journey From time to time during your Scenic Journey, the train may need to slow down or stop completely. Our on board staff will keep you informed of why this is happening but this article provides some more detail on why these delays may occur.

Every day, KiwiRail’s Infrastructure and Engineering (I&E) teams are working on improving the 4,000km network on which our trains operate.

The infrastructure itself is made up of not only the physical track but also signalling systems, traction (the overhead power lines), land formation like cuttings and embankments, along with the physical structures – like bridges, viaducts and tunnels. This entire infrastructure is owned, managed, repaired and upgraded by KiwiRail.

As part of our continued focus on ensuring you enjoy a safe and comfortable journey, our I&E teams work on various worksites to improve the overall travel times and performance for both our passenger and freight trains and networks.

Across 6 Adoration, devotion (7) 7 Spouse’s parent (2-3) 9 Horizontal timber block (4) 10 Something designed for rough or casual use (10) 11 Well produced (8) 13 Hip, cool (6) 15 To swallow loudly (4) 17 To unfasten (5) 18 Honk (4) 19 To make up, to make... (6) 20 Overturn (8) 23 Labour union of related crafts (5,5) 26 Desperate (4) 27 A response to something funny (5) 28 On edge, aware (2,5)

solution

130

Down 1 A cooking device used to flatten (7,3) 2 Genuine, authentic (6) 3 An exercise of right (4) 4 Microprogram stored in ROM (8) 5 Fatty flesh (4) 6 Pertaining to, or situated near (5) 8 Pretending to be (5-2) 12 To provide food or service (5) 14 Art of working in threads (10) 16 Neither moral nor immoral (7) 17 Unwanted (8) 21 Number of printed lines in an article (6) 22 Creepy (5) 24 To beat with a stick (4) 25 Cooled by means of ice (4)

Occasionally our KiwiRail Scenic Journeys services will pass through these active worksites and there are special protocols to follow to before the train is authorised to pass through these areas safely. One of these safety processes is a special indication board which verifies that all of the track maintenance staff is clear of the work area. Each worker has a personalised padlock which must be removed from the indication board - this proves that they have reported to the foreman and the padlocks’ absence from the board shows that all workers and their equipment are clear of the worksite and in a safe space. Once the board is totally empty, the foreman can be assured that the worksite is clear and safe and give clearance to the oncoming train that it is safe to proceed.

There are also very specific words and phrases that must be used over radio communications between the Locomotive Engineer (commonly known as a Train Driver) and the Worksite Safety Protector, in a very similar way that pilots communicate with air traffic controllers. Our service may stop while the Locomotive Engineer receives this authorisation and confirmation that the worksite is safe to pass through.

These stops present you with a perfect opportunity to pop down to the on-board café or perhaps catch a glimpse of the action from the outdoor viewing deck.

Interestingly, even the tracks themselves receive regular maintenance via the use of a rail grinding machine. The RR24M-30A rail grinder is 51 metres in length and works the track at 5km/h, reshaping the rail head for optimal ride quality. Over time, the effect of steel wheels on steel track causes minute changes to the shape of the rail - if the rail isn’t the correct shape this increases fuel use and degrades the overall ride quality. When in use, the rail grinder produces a shower of sparks – and therefore needs to spray water in advance and after every pass from its 16000 litre tanks to mitigate the risk of trackside fire. There’s also a second rail vehicle which follows behind with an additional 4000 litres of water to extinguish any smouldering sleepers or vegetation. A giant vacuum removes and stores the dust from the grinding process for safe disposal back at the depot.

KiwiRail is committed to safe rail operations throughout New Zealand and our maintenance teams work around the clock to continually improve our network. For more information about our Infrastructure and Engineering projects, please visit our website www.kiwirail.co.nz/infrastructure

o u rn e wz e a l an d.c o. nz

Looking for Wheel Value?

www.thrifty.co.nz/ournz 0800 73 70 70 #

Terms and conditions apply