OUR NZ - Issue 37

I SSue 3 7 / SPRING 2017

Our New Zealand onboard travel magazine

celebrating 30 years

Yours to take home

AU C K L A N D

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72

festival fever

THE HEART OF NELSON

FEATURES

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Northland’s Kauri Coast 42 The Coromandel 43 Escape to Ruapehu 44 Wonderful Whanganui 49 Spring into Wellington 56 Refreshing Hutt Valley 58 Wairarapa Day Trip

10 TranzAlpine – A Thirty

Year Adventure 18

Kai Time

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NZ Spring

31 Discover Arts & Museums 34 Buy NZ Made 38 Accommodation

REGULARS

NORTH ISLAND

Welcome 5 Onboard Services 6 Our Story 8 Your Journeys 14 Shopping on the Strait 15 Costal Pacific Rebuild 16 Share Your Views 108 Onboard Maps 110 Motive Power 112 Merchandise 114 Puzzles 4

SOUTH ISLAND 60 Marlborough Naturally 68 Destination Wine 81 Kia Ora Kaikoura 85 Relaxing Hanmer 88 Explore Christchurch 91 Breathtaking Akaroa 93 Captivating Mackenzie/Aoraki 94 West Coast Wilderness 102 Freedom in Wanaka 105 Queenstown Fun

Our New Zealand Magazine

#0urnewzealand #findtimeinterislander #nzbytrain

ourne w z ealand . c o . n z cover photo: The TranzAlpine crossing the Waimakariri River.

PUBLISHER

ADVERTISING

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

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

EDITOR

Penny Thompson

Joanna May Joanna@ttmediagroup.co.nz

DESIGN AND PRODUCTION PRINTING Format Print, Wellington

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

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

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AU C K L A N D

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

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

It has been 30 years since the TranzAlpine train first pulled out of Christchurch heading towards Greymouth.

It is one of KiwiRail’s Great Journeys of New Zealand and, as the article on the anniversary in this edition of Our New Zealand sets out, it is recognised as one of the world’s most renowned rail trips. The accolades it has earned – and they are numerous - are well-deserved.

of work to be done to return the line to its pre-quake state, but we hope to have the Coastal Pacific service up and running in 2018.

In this issue we feature a delicious recipe from renowned cookbook author Annabel Langbein. Annabel’s food celebrates New Zealand’s great produce and our evolving cuisine. Here, she gives us her take on fresh Ceviche.

For many it is a journey they have been thinking about taking for years. That is not surprising. I’m never disappointed by the trip.

The scenery is always spectacular, whether it's in the middle of summer with the brown paddocks and burnt mountain ranges or in the winter, with the snow and mountain rivers tumbling down from the Southern Alps and spreading out across the Canterbury Plains.

Finally, make sure you check out the details in this edition on how to get discounts on future travel with us. New Zealand is a country crammed with spectacular sights and exciting things to do, so it is never too early to start planning and booking your next trip.

It is not only the scenery that makes the trip memorable, it is also our people. Like me, they are proud to be able to share this journey and provide the Kiwi hospitality that is as outstanding as the views. Please let our friendly train and ferry staff know if you need anything, as they are always more than happy to assist.

It has been our pleasure to have you on board and we look forward to seeing you again soon.

Please feel free to take this magazine home with you – I hope you enjoy your journey today.

However, it is not only our frontline teams that deliver the KiwiRail experience. In this issue you can read about First Engineering Officer on Interislander, Sean Bryant. Like many in KiwiRail – and in New Zealand – Sean is someone who has come from overseas to make New Zealand home. Like all of our people he is dedicated to making sure everything runs smoothly and safely.

You can also read about the massive efforts that have been made to repair the damage caused by the Kaikoura earthquakes in November last year to the rail line that connects Picton to Christchurch. Just nine months after the quake tore up the line; it is carrying freight again despite some restrictions such as lowspeed and low-frequency services. There still a sizeable amount

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PETER REIDY Chief Executive, KiwiRail

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

SERVICES ON YOUR ferry JOURNEY

CAFE

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

SERVICES ON YOUR TRAIN JOURNEY

TOI LE TS

CAF E

TO ILETS

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

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

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

v iew in g decks

K I DS

VIEWIN G DECK

Kids

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

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

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

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

Kids activity packs are available to purchase from the café. These fun zip-up packs include cards, colouring-in books, origami and other activities. These are all suitable for children aged 3-10.

WHE RE C A N I C ONNECT

POW E R I NG U P

Wi-Fi is available on all sailings!

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

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

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

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

commentary

POWERIN G U P

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

recycle

your crew

YOUR ON -BOARD CREW

SAF ET Y

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

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

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

Your safety is our first priority.

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

SA F E T Y

AVO I D I NJURY

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

feedback

SIT BACK & REL A X

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.

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

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

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AU C K L A N D

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Pelorus Jack – Our Guiding Dolphin

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

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Staff profile

sean Bryant ‘A dream from early on,’ is how Sean Bryant describes what drew him to a career on the sea.

Growing up in Sunderland—on the northeast coast of England, and a place once known as the greatest shipbuilding town in the world—one of Sean’s lasting memories from that childhood is watching the ships heading out to sea with his dad, and the feeling that he wanted to be out there on the waves too.

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

After completing his apprenticeship as a machinist and spending time volunteering with the UK Coastguard, Sean went on to train for a career at sea aboard container vessels and tankers, eventually working on cruise ships based out of Australia. Currently, Sean is First Engineering Officer, occasionally relieving as Chief Engineer, aboard the Aratere, one of our Interislander ferries, with the Kaitaki and Kaiarahi. The Interislander service connects travellers, holidaymakers and tourists between the North and South Islands, a journey which takes in the spectacular Marlborough Sounds.

Jack is not the only legendary dolphin in these parts. According to Maori history, the dolphin Tuhirangi guided Kupe, a Maori voyager, across the ocean to New Zealand, and through the outer Marlborough Sounds to the West Coast of the South Island.

With a team of other engineers and motormen, Sean is responsible for ensuring the safe and continuous operation of the Aratere machinery.

Engineers maintain the equipment aboard the vessel, such as the engine room, sewage systems, electrical supply network, and more besides. From maintenance to operations and environmental compliance, Sean’s role is essentially to deliver safety and reliability.

If that sounds like a job with some serious responsibility, Sean agrees: ‘Without question,’ he laughs. ‘It’s not only the commercial responsibility that comes with managing a twenty-four hour a day, seven days a week operation, but more importantly the moral obligation to every traveller aboard utilising the service.’ And, with Cook Strait widely-known for its somewhat adventurous weather, it can be good to know that ‘quite often, from a passenger perspective, what feels like a rough crossing is quite normal for us.’

The occasional weather-bomb aside, working on the Interislander allows just the right kind of work-life balance. ‘New Zealand is so relaxed and laidback, and the country’s so unspoiled compared with most others around the world.’

Keen on sailing, surfing and tramping, living just out of Tauranga, with both sea and forest parks nearby, suits him down to the ground.

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

He does admit, however, that he would’ve struggled to find New Zealand on a map before he came to see it for himself. So what was it that caught his attention? In a story that’s probably familiar all around the world, Sean met a Kiwi girl overseas and, since then, marriage, a move and a baby have all duly followed.

Having come to New Zealand without knowing what to expect, Sean reckons that now you’d have to move him ‘with a crowbar’. Which, coming from a First Engineering Officer, is probably an expert opinion and a pretty safe bet.

AU C K L A N D

see the best of new zealand

Discover the heart of New Zealand when you travel by train or ferry. There's a spectacular range of scenery waiting for you - rugged coastlines, winding rivers, towering mountains, untouched alpine landscape and the brilliant Marlborough Sounds. Watch it all roll by with The Great Journeys of New Zealand.

We operate 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 per 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.

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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

mina

20 cass

christchurch

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15

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

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BANKS PENINSULA

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AU C K L A N D

AUCKLAND - NATIONAL PARK - WELLINGTON

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

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

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.

AUCKLAND pukekohe waikato river

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

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

huntly

hamilton

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

lake rotorua

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

otorohanga

2

te kuiti

6 Mt Ngauruhoe (2,287 metres), erupted 45 times in the 20th Century, most recently in 1977.

Its Maori name means ‘throwing heated stones’.

4 lake taupo

taumarunui

3

raurimu spiral

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

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national park

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

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5

mt taranaki

mt ruapehu

ohakune

waiouru

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

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

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marton

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

paraparaumu

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.

WELLINGTON 11

picton

COOK STRAIT

seddon

D GE ARRAN A CLARENCE RIVER

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KAIKOURA PICTON - KAIKOURA - CHRISTCHURCH

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

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

WELLINGTON - PICTON

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

13 Rising dramatically from the sea, the Inland Kaikoura

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

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

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G R E AT J O U R N E Y S O F N Z

A Thirty Year Adventure

By Hamish Clayton

The TranzAlpine is more than a scenic trip by rail. The journey traces pathways forged by earlier intrepid travellers, through a region revered the world over for its varied and spectacular scenery.

When we welcome you onto the TranzAlpine, we let you into the special history of the region and into the family of travellers we’ve been adding to for the last thirty years. In November 2017, we celebrate our thirtieth birthday—that’s a chance for us to share more about what it is that makes this service so popular and so unique.

Centuries of Adventurers From Around the World

Like many of the most-loved and sought-out railway routes, the TranzAlpine not only gives train lovers a unique perspective on a diverse and dramatic landscape, but also connects travellers with the rich history of those who have traversed the landscape before them. The TranzAlpine follows paths travelled throughout history, from pre-colonial Māori tribes to colonial surveyors and pioneers, all of whom were drawn, for their own reasons, to traverse and explore this formidable but beautiful landscape. In more recent times, following European settlement and continuing to the present day, this is a landscape that still draws travellers of all kinds.

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The first known crossing of the Southern Alps was made from west to east by the Māori chieftainess, Raureka, around 1700AD, just a little to the south of the route now taken by the TranzAlpine.

According to traditional accounts, Raureka had been driven off by her tribe and forced to escape up the Arahura River, inland from Hokitika. Following the valley high into the mountains, she discovered a pass—later called Browning Pass—which she crossed, eventually descending through the wide valley of the Wilberforce River to the gentle expanse of the Canterbury Plains.

The epic crossing would have been remarkable enough, but to the eastern tribes who found her, Raureka’s journey held extra significance. Stowed among her things she carried a small axe carved from the highly-coveted pounamu stone, now known as greenstone or New Zealand jade. The plentiful supply of the precious stone in the rivers of the West Coast would have been known in the east beforehand, but the appearance of Raureka was proof of direct access to it—miraculously, it seemed, through the

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G R E AT J O U R N E Y S O F N Z

Past and present, the interior of the TranzAlpine train.

apparently impenetrable divide of the massive mountain ranges themselves.

In the years after Raureka’s traverse, more ‘greenstone trails’ would be forged through the mountains. Along these trails the dominant tribe in the east, Ngai Tahu, would cross to the West Coast and return home laden with the stone.

More than a century later, new ‘tribes’ altogether—British, American, European and Chinese—would be drawn to the West Coast in pursuit of their own precious stone—the gold which was discovered there in the 1860s. Europeans—especially British settlers—had already explored most of the North Island interior by the 1850s, but it wasn’t until the discovery of gold that the mountainous south began to be surveyed by the new colonisers.

The height of the West Coast gold rushes lasted from 1865 to 1867, and with them the height of the ‘Wild West Coast’, a time of lawlessness in the region typified by pioneer hotels packed with boozing miners and the occasional goldfield murder. Many of the towns sprang up virtually overnight with the discovery of gold, only to disappear just as quickly when the gold ran out. Today the TranzAlpine takes in the sights of these towns which once bustled with the industries associated with gold mining; wherever gold was struck, a town blossomed in its wake, prompting extensive sawmilling of the surrounding forests to provide timber for houses, shops and hotels.

Although many of the old towns are no more or much diminished, the TranzAlpine offers not only a nostalgia-tinged glimpse of the settlements, but also a unique chance to take in the stunning terrain with which the intrepid travellers of earlier times contended.

As the train winds into the Southern Alps, through precipitous gorges and breath-taking river valleys, it is remarkable to consider those who once traversed the region by foot—from the Māori pounamu gatherers who survived treacherous conditions clad and shod with flaxen garments and footwear, to

the European pioneers who often cut their way by hand through the dense, temperate rainforests to establish their goldrush and sawmill towns.

Their spirit of adventure carries on today, with the area now home to the famous Coast-to-Coast race, a competition which attracts some of the hardiest multisport athletes from around the world. In both one and two-day events, athletes run, cycle and kayak the 243 kilometres from Kumara Beach on the West Coast to Christchurch in the east. The quickest time recorded was in 1994, when Keith Murray of Christchurch darted across in ten hours, thirty-four minutes and thirty-seven seconds.

With a number of major sponsors, we’re proud to support the Coast-to-Coast competition—and you can see some of the Coast-to-Coast course from the train—but our journey services a far wider range of local and international travellers as well.

Not only are there are those who come from far away, drawn by the compelling scenery of one of the most beautiful corners of earth, there are New Zealanders who make the most of the world-class tourism available in their own backyard. Some are dedicated train-aficionados who want to add the TranzAlpine to their list of great international train journeys achieved and others are those who want to explore the glaciers or the southern lakes by setting off from our West Coast destination in Greymouth. All who embark with us, set out on a journey that offers a unique perspective on the landscape, winding a course which often avoids the route traced by roads and highways in the region.

The TranzAlpine Story

As we celebrate thirty years of service, connecting travellers to this part of the world, we can reflect, too, on the historical journey we’ve taken over this time.

Our history is closely connected to the wider history of the region. In the nineteenth century, the economic potential of rail was widely recognised and rail’s development keenly sought after. But developing rail was another matter. Provinces were

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TranzAlpine at Greymouth on 23 January 1992.

Photo / Don Hutton.

often separated by rugged mountain ranges and dense forests.

Broad rivers flowing through deep ravines were another problem and while the weather was often hazardous, in nineteenthcentury New Zealand, the leading cause of accidental death was drowning.

And yet the railways advanced. Lines were laid by provincial governments, and a network began to form. In 1885 the largest political protest in the country’s history occurred in Christchurch, in support of a trans-alpine route across the Southern Alps to link the economies of Canterbury and Westland. Construction began the following year but progress was slow, perilous, and legally protracted. With very little machinery, workers ploughed on over the years, carving tunnels and raising spectacular viaducts, until 1914 when all that was left to complete was the eight and a half kilometre tunnel at Otira. Eventually, in 1923, the tunnel was complete, finally linking the line between east and west as the third longest tunnel in the world. Today, the Otira tunnel is the TranzAlpine’s gateway between the provinces of Canterbury and the West Coast.

In November 1987, the first TranzAlpine train began running the day-return format which continues to this day, replacing the conventional Christchurch-to-Greymouth express trains, and catering to a tourist-centred experience. Carriages were lavishly refurbished, a buffet service and alcove-style seating was introduced, and the viewing experience deeply enhanced with panoramic windows.

The success of the new service was marked, and in 1991 the first open-air observation platform was added, a hugely popular innovation. Since then, the service has grown to become an icon, not only in New Zealand, but internationally. In 1998, it was voted one of the top-ten short train journeys anywhere in the world, a position it maintains on the respected travel-site, The Travel Luxury Expert. The service also regularly garners rave reviews on the popular forum, TripAdvisor.

In the wider KiwiRail family, the TranzAlpine is now one of four similarly iconic journeys which, taken together, connect the 12

country, all the way from Auckland to Greymouth. The Northern Explorer takes travellers from Auckland to Wellington, where they can catch the Interislander ferry across Cook Strait to Picton. Although the Coastal Pacific line is currently suspended due to the recent Kaikoura earthquakes, when normal service resumes, the train will once again connect travellers from Picton to Christchurch, where the TranzAlpine sets off each morning, returning from Greymouth in the afternoon.

A Journey Back in Time

Many TranzAlpine travellers are compelled by the convenience of crossing the South Island in a serene yet stunning four-and-ahalf-hour journey, as part of their New Zealand tour experience, with one of the most scenic train crossings in the world.

The TranzAlpine has something for all those drawn by nature, and is especially compelling for the range of wilderness environments it passes through in a short space of time. To cross the South Island on the TranzAlpine is to embark on a mini trans-continental tour, stretching from the Pacific Ocean in the east to the Tasman Sea in the west.

Over the course of the 231 kilometre journey—the narrowest stretch of the South Island—travellers take in six different landscapes and accompanying climate zones. The train crosses the pastoral Canterbury Plains, the largest area of continuous flat land in New Zealand, covering three thousand square miles.

The Plains were formed over the glacial era—from three million to ten thousand years ago—by overlapping fans of glacier-fed rivers flowing down from the Southern Alps. The Plains’ socalled ‘braided’ rivers—rivers that run as networks of connected channels—are a highly unusual geographical feature anywhere in the world.

Further towards the Southern Alps the TranzAlpine passes through dramatic gorges and river valleys which rise to the tussock lands of the ‘High Country’ sheep stations in the ranges themselves. Higher still, in the Arthur’s Pass National Park, the TranzAlpine passes through beech forests, the dominant forest cover on the eastern side of the main divide. By contrast, the

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G R E AT J O U R N E Y S O F N Z

“ The TranzAlpine has something for all those drawn by nature, and is especially compelling for the range of wilderness environments it passes through in a short space of time.” western side of the divide is dominated by forested mountain valleys in the upper reaches, and forested river valleys in the lowlands, towards Greymouth on the edge of the West Coast.

The varying forest cover east and west owes to differing climatic conditions either side of the divide: warmer and wetter in the west, cooler and dryer in the east. The climate of the Plains is also governed by the ‘rain shadow’ effect of the Southern Alps.

When the prevailing westerly and north-westerly winds strike the western flanks of the Alps, air rises and cools, causing heavy rainfall in the west. With the energy released from the rain clouds, air reaches the eastern side of the divide, sinks, compresses, heats up and accelerates, rushing down the eastern flanks as a notorious gale known as ‘the nor-wester.’

The effects of the nor-wester can be dramatic: the ‘north-west arch’ appears in the sky, a gigantic arch of grey cloud with blue sky beneath, stretching from South to North Canterbury, and temperatures can rise to the mid-30s Celsius (mid-90s Fahrenheit) in a matter of hours. Not least of all, the wind has also cultivated a reputation for driving people crazy.

The TranzAlpine showcases both the dramatic natural forces to have shaped the region and the delicate relationship humans have continually held with it since their earliest inhabitation. Prior to any human settlement the Plains were extensively covered by native podocarp forests, primarily of kahikatea, totara and kanuka. Five thousand years ago the forests were reduced by climatic warming, while the arrival of humans some seven hundred years ago greatly increased the rate of reduction.

The uplift on the Alpine Fault is remarkably swift in geological terms, rising from five to eight millimetres per year. However, erosion takes place at around the same rate, keeping the height of the mountains in check. Without erosion, it is estimated that the Southern Alps would be twelve miles high by now (for reference, the Himalayas are a touch under five and a half miles high.) Not surprisingly then, the Alpine Fault produces major earthquakes at far closer intervals than most faults—as often as every two or three hundred years, as opposed to the more usual interval of thousands of years. In the last thousand years alone the Alpine Fault has triggered four earthquakes of magnitude eight, each time shunting the West Coast region north by a staggering eight metres.

The TranzAlpine offers a unique perspective on a landscape which is one of the most beautiful and dramatic anywhere in the world. The trip is an up close and personal journey through an area remarkable for its highly-active geology.

The Trip of a Lifetime

Over the thirty years that we’ve been bringing this special environment to life for travellers, time and again visitors from all around the world tell us that our service through the region is just as special. We believe that the journey is the destination, and that the TranzAlpine really is the best way to take in the unique natural showcase of the area.

But by far the most impressive and formidable of the changes brought to the face of the region’s environments have been those wrought by nature alone.

In New Zealand, many of us are used to hearing about the natural splendour which surrounds us, and it’s an image which has taken hold in imaginations all around the world, too. We see it on screens in our cinemas and living rooms. Or we see it through photography in lavish coffee-table books and high-end advertising.

The TranzAlpine traverses one of the most significant sites of geological interest in the world. When the Dutch explorer, Abel Tasman, approached the West Coast of New Zealand in 1642, he sighted what he called ‘a large land, uplifted high’. What Tasman saw would become known as the Southern Alps. Named in reference to the European Alps, their southern counterparts are now famous as a signature of the intense geological forces which characterise the formation of New Zealand.

But the TranzAlpine is a viewing experience which takes travellers into the heart of that living landscape. From the comfort of the carriages to the open air of the observation deck, and the gentle speed of the train itself, the TranzAlpine is a tour with moving pictures. Seen from the TranzAlpine, the iconic vistas are never held, never static, but continually unfold with the bends and turns of the journey, giving each traveller an experience that is theirs alone.

The Southern Alps are perhaps the most compellingly beautiful effect of the Alpine Fault, the geological fault which runs the length of the South Island. The line of the Fault is so indelibly etched on the landscape that it is visible from space, emphatically marking the boundary between the Australian and Pacific Continental Plates. While the plates are moving intractably towards one another, here, the Pacific Plate is riding over top the Australian one. But whereas the Pacific Plate is moving very slowly, the Australian Plate is moving incredibly quickly, at around the rate your fingernails grow. The colliding ‘car-crash’ effect has been going on for some 25 million years, forming the Southern Alps and the surrounding mountain ranges, with the most intense activity coming in the last five million years.

No two trips on the TranzAlpine are the same; each one is the trip of a lifetime.

Visit greatjourneysofnz.co.nz to book your TranzAlpine experience today.

Keep an eye on our website for information about the events we have planned to celebrate the TranzAlpine 30th birthday.

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s h o p p in g

Shopping on the Strait Need a gift? Something warm to wear or a movie ticket? Whether it’s a puzzle book to pass the time or a souvenir for the grandkids, Interislander’s shops are worth a visit!

The shops have always been a hub on-board, often the first place to stop and book a cabin, check out today’s movie, or grab a newspaper. Whilst keeping the basics you need we’re also looking to the future with new higher quality products that reflect New Zealand.

As with many places around New Zealand, greenstone is a popular item to purchase as a gift or memento, however we were surprised to learn that much of it is in fact Chinese or Canadian jade! Searching for something locally authentic, we discovered Ngāi Tahu Pounamu, who represent and market products from some of New Zealand’s best carvers using West Coast greenstone.

Each piece comes with a unique code which allows you to trace the carver, origin of the stone and other interesting facts – most importantly validating that this is authentic New Zealand pounamu.

A Taste of New Zealand

No matter your age, nothing beats the joy of ice cream.

A case in point – our train and ferry passengers munch through over 75,000 ice creams each year!

Kapiti ice creams are a particular favourite and renowned for being some of New Zealand’s best.

Kapiti was born on the Kapiti Coast in Wellington in 1984, originally with the intention of producing high quality New Zealand cheeses at a time when the market was as plain as a block of supermarket Colby. Cheeses such as Kikorangi (Blue) and Aorangi Brie forged the road for the wide range of excellent product we enjoy today.

As a natural extension of their gourmet dairy product range, ice cream production started in 1997 - initially with a restaurant focus. Then in 2009, luckily for us, Kapiti started producing the delicious ice creams on a stick that you’ll find on-board.

So make sure you check out the ice cream freezer onboard for your favourite flavours, and enjoy an indulgent Kiwi treat.

For something a little different, you can browse official Weta Workshop merchandise – based on the Lord of the Rings and Hobbit films. This is not available in many shops, which has customers asking whether this is the real thing – we can assure you it is! We’re pleased to work directly with Weta Workshop to bring you everything from large models to small Hobbits’ feet magnets (yes, they’re really a thing). And of course if you’re in Wellington, don’t miss a visit to the Weta Cave and associated exhibits in Miramar.

Our latest additions are a few items from New Zealand’s most famous merino clothing company – Icebreaker. We’ve focussed on accessories to keep you warm in the changeable New Zealand weather – socks, beanies, scarves – so check them out in store.

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Final link welded in Coastal Pacific Line rebuild The major damage caused following the 2016 earthquakes.

KiwiRail reached an impressive milestone on 8 August, linking up the Coastal Pacific train line between Picton and Christchurch only nine months after a 7.8 magnitude earthquake devastated the line.

With more than 1500 people involved in the project to repair 60 sites along the rail line, including tunnels, bridges and embankments, many of the dedicated rebuild workers moved away from their homes and families to take part in getting the train route back up and running. Through varying weather conditions the commitment of staff all throughout the country meant that by the start of July, rail crews had only 10 kilometres of track left to repair.

"Our world-class engineers and a team of New Zealanders from all over the country, working for KiwiRail, NZTA and other contractors in the North Canterbury Transport Infrastructure Recovery alliance, have made this happen, and it is all of New Zealand who will benefit,” said KiwiRail Chief Executive Peter Reidy.

"Over the whole project – road and rail – an average of 150,000 person hours are being worked each month.

Bridge 129 near Tirohanga, on the Main North Line railway dropped a massive 2.3 metres and moved up to 5.5m sideways when the quake struck.

"On the rail side 150 kilometres of line has been tamped and made ready for trains.

Five thousand new concrete sleepers have been laid, the formation under 12 km of track has been rebuilt, and 5km of track has been realigned. ou u rr n n ee w w zz ee aa ll aa n n d.c d.c o. o. n n zz o

"The progress we have made to date is also due to the local community and the goodwill they have shown. The support of the people of Kaikoura, and the others up and down the line, for the rebuild has made our work easier.

"This has been a mighty effort, and the reward is that the track should open to freight within a month, well ahead of schedule.

"The initial opening is a restricted one, with low-speed, low-frequency services, and a sizeable amount of work remains to return the line to its pre-quake state.

"Freight services will initially run at night so that work on the rail and road networks can continue during the day.

"The line is an important part of our network, especially for connecting the country for our customers.

"It will also take pressure off the alternate road, which has been the main route to shift freight south since the earthquake.

"Even with the restrictions that will be in place, we still expect that up to 2000 trucks a month could be taken off the roads," Mr Reidy says.

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Get snapping and share your scenic adventures by train

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SHARE YOUR VIEWS One of the greatest things about travelling is sharing your experience with those back home. And with amazing views outside and fun environment inside, your journey with us is sure to bring a smile to their faces – and perhaps a teeny bit of jealousy, too!

Photo: @tsu_puru

And with today’s technology, you can capture the magic of your journey, jump online and share it with friends and family in an instant.

So get snapping and use the hashtags #FindTimeInterislander or #NZbyTrain to show the world your amazing views of New Zealand!

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kai t ime

FROM OCEAN TO PLATE LUNCH WITH ANNABEL LANGBEIN

Leading cookbook author and publisher Annabel Langbein celebrates New Zealand’s quality produce, global palate and adventurous spirit in her new book ESSENTIAL. Like many New Zealanders, Annabel Langbein’s roots are deeply tethered in the earth, in a satisfying cycle of growing, harvesting, cooking and sharing around the table.

Some of her earliest memories are of helping her dad with his inner-city beehives and vegetable garden, and perching on a kitchen stool watching her mum cook and waiting for the beater to lick. Soon she graduated to stirring the bowl, and before long she was cooking multi-course meals for the entire family.

Entering her teens in the 1970s as a fully-fledged hippy and feminist, Annabel railed against domesticity and consumerism, leaving school and home when she was just 16. For several years she hunted and fished for much of her food, cooked over an open fire and made a living trapping possums (New Zealand’s number one pest) and jumping out of helicopters to recover live deer.

A life-changing experience when she was thrown from a horse, damaging her back and being given only a five percent chance of walking again, set her on the path of food writing. “I realised I could share my knowledge of food and cooking to help people live healthier, happier, more connected and sustainable lives,” she says.

Since then she has written and published 26 cookbooks and starred in and co-produced three seasons of her award-winning TV series Annabel Langbein The Free Range Cook.

Her books have won numerous international awards, been translated into multiple languages and sold more than two million copies around the world.

Her TV series has screened in more than 90 countries and inspired countless travellers to visit New Zealand, and especially her hometown of Wanaka, in the beautiful Southern Alps.

“Eating homegrown, home-cooked food connects us to the rhythms of nature,” she says. “Wandering around my garden at the end of a busy day to find something to serve for our evening meal is incredibly satisfying. So, too, is the daily ritual of setting the table, lighting some candles and sitting down together to enjoy simple, freshly cooked food.”

Annabel’s new book ESSENTIAL Annabel Langbein (Annabel Langbein Media, $65), is available at all good bookstores throughout New Zealand. Find out more at annabel-langbein.com or follow Annabel on Facebook or Instagram.

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kai t ime

Annabel Langbein’s Beachside Ceviche

Lots of cultures make a version of raw fish ‘cooked’ in lemon or lime juice or even a good vinegar. In Latin America they don’t use coconut cream, but in the Pacific Islands and New Zealand we do, and it adds a lovely creamy richness. I’ve given both options here, so if you don’t want the coconut flavour you can just leave it out and add a drizzle of boutique extra virgin olive oil instead.

Ready in 15 mins + marinating Serves 8 as a starter DF GF 4 boneless, skinless white fish fillets, cut into bite-size slices or chunks ½ cup lemon or lime juice, or more if needed about 20 cherry tomatoes, halved flesh of 2 large just-ripe avocados, diced 2 spring onions, thinly sliced ½ red onion, very thinly sliced ½-1 long red chilli, deseeded and finely chopped (optional) salt and ground black pepper, to taste ½ cup coconut cream or 2 tbsp boutique extra virgin olive oil a handful of coriander leaves, to serve lemon or lime wedges, to serve Place fish in a bowl with lemon or lime juice and stir to combine (there should be enough liquid to cover the fish – if not add a little more juice). Cover and chill until the fish whitens and appears ‘cooked’ (about 45 minutes).

Drain off and discard juice. Add tomato, avocado, spring onions, red onion and chilli, if using, to the fish, reserving a little of each to garnish, and mix gently to combine. Adjust seasonings to taste.

To serve, drizzle with coconut cream or olive oil and top with coriander and reserved tomato, avocado, spring onions, red onion and chilli, if using. Serve with lemon or lime wedges for squeezing.

This is just one of more than 650 great recipes in Annabel’s new book ESSENTIAL Annabel Langbein (Annabel Langbein Media, $65), available now at all good bookstores. Find out more at annabel-langbein.com or follow Annabel on Facebook or Instagram.

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DISCOVER The Great Journeys of New Zealand brings together KiwiRail’s four iconic passenger journeys – Northern Explorer, Interislander, Coastal Pacific and TranzAlpine. Each of our journeys has a distinctive flavour, but all embody the same unique and authentic Kiwi character. They are globally-recognised and can be enjoyed separately or together to create a quintessential New Zealand experience.

Relax in between the games

Save on future travel Book now on any one of our train or ferry services using the promo code NZBLOOM17 and receive 10% off your next booking.

Terms and Conditions apply.

Book now at greatjourneysofnz.co.nz 20

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NZ SPRING

VIBRANT & UPLIFTING spring in New Zealand lasts from September to the end of November

BY JO MAY

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Spring is our ‘waterfall season’ – the country’s falls multiply with magnificent effect.

It’s the most impressive time of year to take a tour to Milford Sound via the Milford Road.

The fruit-growing areas of South Island’s Central Otago are bedecked with blossom.

Alexandra's annual Blossom Festival is held each year when the town's cherry trees are in full bloom.

Explore Auckland’s Waitakere Ranges on foot – tiny fern fronds dot the lush native bush during this time of year.

Spring is a great time of year to visit the Hobbiton Film Set; the charming bluebells and Middle‑earth gardens are in full flower. Check out www.hobbitontours.com and take a two hour tour past many welcoming-looking Hobbit holes.

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.

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 mouth-watering fritter with a slice of lemon on the side.

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.

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

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NZ SPRING

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!

For adventure and fun whether it’s a laid-back cruise in Milford or Doubtful Sound, paddle into the wilderness in Fiordland or adventure in Queenstown lakes and rivers visit www.GoOrange.nz

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Photo: Julian Apse

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2016 Great Walk Survey winners enjoying walking Lake Waikaremoana.

Photo: Mark Booth

Take a great family adventure 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.

Choose from short walks, day walks, overnight excursions or tackle a full track over several days. Many operators 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. If you’re lucky, you might hear or even catch a glimpse of the Rakiura tokoeka/kiwi 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.

Abel Tasman Coast Track

Rakiura Track. Photo: Jeremy Pearce

If it’s sun and sand you’re looking for, then the Abel Tasman Coast Track has it covered. Set in the idyllic Abel Tasman National Park at the top of the South Island, the track crosses some of New Zealand’s best golden sandy beaches and travels through beautiful coastal forest. The neighbouring crystalclear waters offer a range of activities for the family other than walking, including swimming, snorkelling and kayaking.

Lake Waikaremoana

Find out more about our family-friendly Great Walks: Rakiura Track, Abel Tasman Coast Track and Lake Waikaremoana

Book online at greatwalks.co.nz

A refuge amongst prehistoric rainforest, the Lake Waikaremoana Great Walk offers a unique experience in Te Urewera, on the east coast of the North Island. Home of Nāi Tūhoe people, the children of the mist, and 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.

bird wat c h in g

A Bird Watcher’s Paradise By Jo May Birds are still some of our most colourful inhabitants and New Zealand is a bird-watchers' paradise.

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.

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.

White Heron Sanctuary Tours

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.

Pohatu Penguins

The White Heron (Kotuku) in New Zealand is a very rare and sacred bird. In Maori oratory 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.

Visit New Zealand’s only White Heron nesting colony with White Heron Sanctuary Tours.

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

For more information, www.whiteherontours.co.nz

Pohatu Penguins

Pohatu Penguins offer unique nature tours just 90 minutes from Christchurch in the French settlement of Akaroa in Banks Peninsula.

Pohatu is the largest Australasian Little Penguin colony on mainland New Zealand. This is an amazing story of conservation that a family have achieved because they wanted to and knew, despite was everybody was telling them, that it wasn't too late. Now eco tourism has become a very important part of the management of the property and it has especially helped and will continue to help with the ongoing conservation work at Pohatu. For more information visit, www.pohatu.co.nz Otago Peninsula

Visit the Royal Albatross Centre in Otago and discover the world’s only mainland breeding colony and only a short drive from Dunedin.

The Royal Albatross Centre is owned and operated by the Otago Peninsula Trust, a charitable trust, whose objective is the protection and enhancement of the Otago Peninsula. For more information visit, www.albatross.org.nz

V i s i t i n g D u n e d i n?

Don’t miss...

VISIT NEW ZEALAND’S ONLY WHITE HERON NESTING COLONY

Wildlife Capital -Otago Peninsula

Visit the largest colony of Little Penguin on mainland NZ World’s only mainland Royal Albatross breeding colony

AKAROA / BANKS PENINSULA CHOOSE THE WAY THAT SUITS YOU BEST:

World’s smallest penguin in its natural habitat

Scenic nature safaris and Evening penguin tour.

Sea-kayaking safari exploring Pohatu Marine reserve and its specific wildlife.

Accommodations with our 24 hour Pohatu package.

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

M: 021 246 9556

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

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

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

albatross.org.nz | 03 4780499 25

FESTIVALS & EVENTS

FESTIVAL FEVER

BY JO MAY

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 MÄ ori dance and modern ballet. Enjoy New Zealand’s native culture and thriving art scene.

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.

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F E S T I VA L S & E V E N T S

Cinema Italiano Festival June – November 2017 Movie buffs best get prepared: the Italian Film Festival is coming to town.

Bringing with it an engaging selection of films that celebrate Italian life in all its forms the Cinema Italiano Festival is winding down its six-month tour of the nation in Wellington at the Empire Cinema. The Italian Embassy and Vespa NZ are presenting the Opening Night film on 1 November - the restored classic ‘Roman Holiday’ and ticket holders will be treated to Peroni, San Pellegrino, Italian wine and cicchetti by La Bella Italia.

www.cinemaitalianonz.com

HEADS UP, FILM FANS:

the Cinema Italiano Festival is in Wellington from Nov 1 to 14 screening exclusively at The Empire Cinema, Island Bay.

Auckland Festival of Quilts 3rd Nov – 5th Nov 2017 Over 200 quilts made by Auckland Quilt Guild members will be on display in a judged competition including modern quilts and quilts made from recycled materials.. Also on display will be all of this year's inspirational quilt challenges.

The engaging selection of 20 films celebrate Italian life in all its forms, and range from alltime classics like Roman Holiday to comedy, drama, and thought-provoking documentaries.

40 merchants from around New Zealand will help you with the latest fabrics and quilty things you just need to have, as well as knitting designs, scissors, and other textile treasures.

For more information:

www.cinemaitalianonz.com

@italianfilmsnz

www.aqg.org.nz

ARTWEEK AUCKLAND 2017 7 – 15 OCt Artweek Auckland is an annual week-long festival in October, highlighting Auckland as the visual arts capital of New Zealand.

Artweek Auckland is presented by the New Zealand Contemporary Art Trust established in 2005.

During the week over 1500 artists present work in more than 100 venues, including dealer and public galleries, pop up spaces, installations, street art, artists collectives and studios.

Explore Auckland with a self-guided tour or book on line to secure a spot in a guided tour.

www.artweek.co.nz

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fes t i vals & e v en t s

The New Zealand Cider Festival Saturday 4th November 2017 The New Zealand Cider Festival is a family-friendly celebration of all things Cider, located at Founders Heritage Park in Nelson on Saturday 4th November. Sample over 80 NZ Cider varieties and feast on delectable local artisan foods while relaxing in the sun and listening to live music from talented NZ musicians. Attend talks and demonstrations, explore the park, play with the giant handcrafted games and keep the kiddies entertained with apple science and art. Described by National Geographic as “heaven for Cider seekers”, the Festival is just one of the many great reasons to visit the Nelson/Tasman region. See the website for more information: www.nzciderfestival.com

magazine

OCEAN VINE HOP 25TH NOVEMBER 2017 Enjoy the gastronomic combination of local seafood, wine and beer in beautiful Marlborough, at this brand new R18 festival brought to you by Marlborough’s premier events company, Marlborough 4 Fun. We’ll be serving up a slice of Jax –celebrity chef Jax Hamilton that is! With her high energy and passion for delicious food overflowing – she will be delighting you with her twist on seafood recipes in the New Zealand King Salmon Culinary Marquee.

We will be combining demonstrations and tastings, together with stalls offering beer, wine, seafood along with other delicious Marlborough produce and tasty menus to choose from.

There is a stellar line up of main stage entertainment so bring your taste buds and your dancing shoes! Live Bands include kiwi favourites, Jordan Luck Trio, Jason Kerrison and Shane Cortese and The 8 Track Band For more info visit www.oceanvinhop.co.nz or keep connected via facebook and twitter.

Tickets available at www.ticketek.co.nz or phone 0800 TICKET (0800 842 538)

Churchill Glade, Pollard Park Saturday 25th November 2017

11AM - 6PM

Marlborough’s brand new R18

seafood, wine & beer festival

www.ticketek.co.nz

www.oceanvinehop.co.nz

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NZ WINTER

Unique experiences across four Wellington destinations. Explore the fascinating stories of the Wellington region, an iconic transport system, our oldest house and our southern skies.

3 Jervois Quay, Queens Wharf

1A Upland Road, Kelburn

68 Nairn Street, Mount Cook

40 Salamanca Road, Kelburn

museumswellington.org.nz

REWARDING THE CURIOUS!

MUSEUMS & GALLERIES PHOTO: ALEX ETIMOFF

CABLE CAR 115TH ANNIVERSARY In 1902 the Wellington Cable Car first opened its carriage doors - and since then has transported more than one hundred million passengers from the Wellington CBD up to the Cable Car Museum and the Wellington Botanic Gardens in the picturesque suburb of Kelburn. 115 years later the cable car is still going strong and is now a much loved Wellington treasure, a favourite tourist destination and still an important mode of transport for local Wellington commuters.

This year the Cable Car Museum is celebrating the 115th anniversary of the Wellington Cable Car by hosting two events –Wellington Cable Car 101 on October 19th – a special event as part of Seniors Week where the Museums Wellington curatorial team along with Cable Car Engineer Gavin Macintyre will guide people on a tour of the Museum and answer all those tricky technical questions. The second event is the festive Cable Car Hoopla an event run by the Cable Car Museum in collaboration with

the Wellington Cable Car and Wellington Botanical Gardens which happens on November 3rd. On that the night the Cable Cars will be transformed into a party zone where you can enjoy food and drink as you ride to the top of the tracks, and at the top you can grab a bite to eat and listen to live music – which include groups The Nudge, Disasteradio and DJs Oonaverse, Mos Locos and Eclectica. These two events are a great o u r n e w z e a l a n d.c o. n z

way to celebrate the important role the Wellington Cable Car has had in shaping the city of Wellington for 115 years. Come along and join the celebrations.

Open: 9.30am to 5.00pm every day Closed: Christmas Day General admission is free. Bookings are essential for all schools and tour groups.

Charges may apply. www.wellingtoncablecar.co.nz

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MUSEUMS & GALLERIES

The Corsini Collection: A Window on Renaissance Florence at Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki An inspiring cultural experience, Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki is New Zealand’s largest visual arts offering.

This year’s warmer months offer an Italian encounter at the Gallery as the art and lives of a Florentine dynasty are revealed in The Corsini Collection: A Window on Renaissance Florence.

Drawn from the extensive private art collection of the eminent Corsini family in Florence, Italy, the exhibition features Renaissance and Baroque painting by artists such as Botticelli, Caravaggio, Andrea del Sarto and Pontormo.

The first time this collection has toured outside Italy, the exhibition also marks the first time a Florentine private collection has been displayed in Aotearoa New Zealand.

that span from the fifteenth to the twentieth centuries’.

From a palazzo on the banks of the river Arno to the world stage, The Corsini Collection reveals a story that is as much about a family and about a city, as it is about art.

Auckland Art Gallery is situated on the corner of Kitchener and Wellesley Streets in central Auckland and is open 10am to 5pm daily except Christmas Day. The Corsini Collection runs until Sunday 21 January 2018. Adult tickets are $19, children 12 and under are free, and concession rates are available.

The Corsini Collection provides a window onto the Corsini family’s continuing passion for art and their ongoing loyalty to the city of Florence, which have prevailed through the devastation of World War II and the inescapable forces of nature during the flood in Florence in 1966.

Auckland Art Gallery Director Rhana Devenport says it is a privilege to exhibit this collection.

Sandro Botticelli and Workshop, Madonna and Child with Six Angels circa 1500, tempera and oil on board, Florence, Galleria Corsini

‘Gallery visitors will experience an immersive encounter with the fascinating history of an extraordinary family who turned their love and passion for art into a true vocation, gathering artworks Florentine painter from Francesco Rosselli The Execution of Savonarola and Two Companions at Piazza della Signoria (detail)16th century, Florence, Galleria Corsini

2 SEP 2017 – 21 JAN 2018

THE

A WINDOW ON RENAISSANCE FLORENCE

COLLECTION Media sponsor

Exhibition organised by the Galleria Corsini, Florence; Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki; Art Gallery of Western Australia, Perth; and MondoMostre, Rome.

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MUSEUMS & GALLERIES

Discover the New Zealand Maritime Museum New Zealand’s geographic isolation has forged our identity as a country and as New Zealanders. Kiwis are a nation of innovators, of dreamers, and of pioneers.

Nowhere is this expression of our New Zealand identity stronger than through the bond with the ocean. From the first discovery

by Kupe, to one of the most courageous migrations by the Polynesian peoples, to Abel Tasman and then Cook. These pioneers forged a spirit of exploration and broke the boundaries of what people thought possible. Many of New Zealand's greatest maritime adventurers and explorers have emerged from this spirit, and the New Zealand Maritime Museum celebrates these people who sailed to the limits of their imagination.

Suitable for all ages, the Maritime Museum aims to provide a rewarding, enjoyable and unique discovery experience for present and future generations through the preservation and presentation of New Zealand’s maritime heritage.

The museum displays and presents items of national, regional, local and general maritime interest in a way that stimulates interest and preserves the items for the benefit of the people of New Zealand.

Guests can learn about the pioneering voyages of discovery, settlement and trade that shaped the country’s early history, meet the early immigrants who braved the ocean to come to

29 September 2017

New Zealand and not only survived. but thrived, in a tough environment. Experience the museum’s 1840s rocking ship cabin and see the tribute to Sir Peter Blake and New Zealand’s yachting successes.

As well as the permanent collection, the museum displays regular temporary art exhibitions with a maritime flair.

The Maritime Museum also has a working fleet of four heritage vessels that form an active and integral part of the collection.

Guests can see and learn about the vessels while they're visiting, and on public sailings days, can enjoy the thrilling experience of sailing the Waitemata Harbour in a heritage vessel.

29 April 2018

The tactile exhibition Knot Touch celebrates the versatility and traditions of knots. Workshops, activities and demonstrations suitable for all ages and abilities throughout the exhibition.

Installation by Jae Kang

Check our website for more details - www.maritimemuseum.co.nz

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BUY NZ MADE

Experiencing New Zealand Made When travelling in New Zealand, there are plenty of opportunities to pick up something special to take home that is unique to an area. The beauty of buying a locally made product is often found in the stories behind them which can be quirky, interesting or simply amazing.

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.

The hives are situated in rural sites where the bees have a wide variety of floral sources. Each year Mountain Valley Honey enjoy a varied harvest which can include Manuka, Native Bush, Clover, Honeydew, Kamahi and Autumn Gold. www.mountainvalleyhoney.co.nz

There are many places in New Zealand where not only you can pick up something special, but can discover the true origins of that product and experience how that product was made or grown. New Zealand offers unique story-telling experiences, including factory tours and specialised stores – sometimes run by the very same people who own them.

New Zealand is a small place with a big heart which is clearly apparent in the locals who are passionate about the products they produce. Don’t be surprised if they fill you on the stories behind their region and their products. New Zealanders are known for their creativity and ingenuity, but also known for their incredible hospitality and friendliness.

CARTERTON, WAIRARAPA

PAUA WORLD

A great place to discover authentic New Zealand Made jewellery and souvenirs is Paua World in Carterton, Wairarapa. Not only a retail store, paua World is a full experience of New Zealand’s unique shell, where you can learn about the life of paua through a short film and witness the factory in action, seeing the paua being shaped and polished.

There is also a playground outside - a bonus if you are travelling with kids.

You’ll learn paua isn’t just a pretty shell for jewellery and souvenirs as Māori used the shell for tools, it’s an important fisheries resource for traditional Kiwi fare such as paua fritters and it’s also used in New Zealand art. Paua remains an important aspect of New Zealand culture.

Opening Hours

8:30-5:00pm Monday - Friday 9:00 -5:00pm Weekends and Public Holidays P: 06 379 4247 www.pauaworld.com

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buy nz made

Va l l e y H o n e y

ÂŽ

The Merino Story The Merino Story is a NZ family owned and operated company. They aim to bring you the best NZ made merino representing the best quality, value and style.

They specialise in New Zealand Made Merino and Merino Possum. Their range stands out as featuring the most gorgeous colours and styles.

You can visit one of The Merino Story stores situated in Huntly, Tirau, Hinds, Timaru, Fairlie, Lake Tekapo, Wanaka, Gore and Milton. www.themerinostory.com

ION MENT AND D A THIS IVE MASS GET A

ff any 15% o ossum oP Merin ment. gar

Specialising in New Zealand Made Merino and Merino Possum.

Gorgeous colours and great selection of styles in store.

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

19 Peters Street Main Road, Hinds 03 303 7621

State Highway 8 Lake Tekapo 03 680 6656

Waimate Knitwear 8 Union Street Milton 03 4174511

72 Main Street Gore, Southland 03 208 0310

Main Street Fairlie 03 685 6292

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

63 Brownston St Wanaka 03 443 5660

www.themerinostory.com

Shop 1, Hilton Highway Washdyke, Timaru 03 688 7329

The Merino Story 29 Main Road, Tirau 07 883 1584

DETERMINATION. PASSION. COMMITMENT. IT TAKES A CERTAIN TYPE OF WORKFORCE TO MAKE THE MOST PREMIUM OF NATURE’S SUPERFOODS. NATURAL PRODUCTS. NATURAL SUPPORT.

T H E WO R L D’S F I N E ST P R E M I U M M A N U K A H O N E

MANUKA 100% NEW ZEALAND. 100% NATURAL. 100% TRACEABLE. MANUKA EXCELLENCE PRODUCED WITHOUT COMPROMISE.

AVAI L AB L E F ROM

ALL GOOD LOCAL PHARMACIES & HEALTH STORES AND ONLINE: SHOP.WATSONANDSON.CO.NZ

ACCOMMODATION

Our Spring Accommodation Picks 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

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.

Y O U R H O S T S L UK E AND SAM

info@mercurybayholidaypark.co.nz

www.mercurybayholidaypark.co.nz

Mount Maunganui

Stay at our Award winning Hostel at the best beach town in NZ. Free assistance with job placements ALL year round!

FREE surf board and bike hire

0800 66 66 22

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

They are only 2.5 hours drive from Auckland, Hamilton and Tauranga.

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

They have a bed for every budget – from camping to glamping! Budget cabins to fully equipped kitchen cabins and self-contained units or 4 star chalets.

Their Qualmark 4 star facilities include a seasonal swimming pool, children’s play area with swings, slides, climbing frames and sandpit. There is also free BBQ’s in their outdoor dining area. They also offer a communal TV room with Freeview channels, DVD player, DVD’s and air hockey table ($2 per game).

Mercury Bay Holiday Park operates in a way to support ongoing sustainability of their unique environment. They actively encourage recycling by providing collection bins on site and all accommodation units have separate recycling bins.

A: 121 Albert Street, Whitianga T: 07 866 5579 E: info@mercurybayholidaypark.co.nz mercurybayholidaypark.co.nz

Pacific Coast Lodge and Backpackers has been voted the BEST hostel in NZ! It is located close to the beautiful shores of Mount Maunganui Beach, offering affordable accommodation suitable for backpackers, families, sport groups, school groups, clubs or societies.

Pacific Coast Lodge - your Mount Maunganui backpackers accommodation - can cater for a one night stays to weekly boarders looking for work, and they are perfectly situated if you're in Mount Maunganui for a sporting event, as they are close to Bay Park Stadium, opposite Blake Park Sports ground, minutes from downtown Mount Maunganui, and only 500m from the beach! They are happy to provide you with free surfboards and free bikes to use so you can enjoy the sunshine and catch a few waves!

The hostel is well established and provides loads of the comforts you crave from a Backpackers. They have a variety of shared facility rooms to enjoy, with a huge communal kitchen (great for large groups!) with free tea/coffee/herbs/ spices, an outdoor courtyard with BBQ's free to use, their very own games and reading room along with a separate TV lounge room upstairs.

Mount Maunganui is New Zealand's summer playground and it sparkles with 100km of white sand beaches and enticing blue ocean. The seaside resort town is a favourite destination to Kiwis with the spectacular surf beach on one side, and the tranquil sheltered harbour on the other, drawing thousands of holiday makers every summer and the international traveller throughout the year.

A: 432 Maunganui Road, Mt Maunganui T: 07 574 9601 E: info@pacificcoastlodge.co.nz pacificcoastlodge.co.nz

pacificcoastlodge.co.nz

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Mount Maunganui Pacific Coast Lodge

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AU C K L A N D

Taranaki Motels The best range of accommodation in New Plymouth.

New Plymouth Brougham Heights Motel

Napier Ballina Motel

Brougham Heights Motel and Apartments, provides you with "the personal alternative" to your accommodation needs in the New Plymouth CBD. Their 35 room New Plymouth motel and apartments complex offers a full range of room options with free parking outside your unit. They offer a range of studio, 1 bedroom and 2 bedroom apartments with a variety of cooking options.

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

If you are wanting dining options then look no further than the Table Restaurant directly across the road, they will even deliver if you wish to have in room service.

Full cooked breakfasts are cooked on site and delivered to your room.

In New Plymouth on business then ask them about one of their conference or meeting rooms. These are ideal for planning sessions or interviews. Their conference centre being so close to the centre of New Plymouth makes an ideal venue for many events.

Enquire direct about their business rates and book direct for more savings.

Brougham Heights Motel and Apartments offers a full loyalty programme for regular guests.

Brougham Heights Motel is situated right in the centre of the city, which allows guests to be able to walk around the city and enjoy what New Plymouth has to offer. Whilst in New Plymouth visit the world famous Len Lye art Gallery. Find out why Taranaki has ranked second in the Lonely Planet's Top 10 regions 2017 and go for a walk along the New Plymouth coast line or wander through the stunning Pukekura Park.

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

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

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

www.taranakimotels.co.nz

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

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

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

A: 393 Gloucester Street, Taradale, Napier T: 06 845 0648 E: info@ballinamotel.co.nz ballinamotel.co.nz

A: 54 Brougham Street, New Plymouth T: 06 757 9954 E: book@broughamheights.co.nz broughamheights.co.nz

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

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AC C O M M O DAT I O N

Taupo Colonial Lodge Motel

The charming and peaceful Colonial Lodge Motel offers spacious studios and apartments in the heart of the North Island. Guests can enjoy relaxing strolls alongside the scenic shores of Lake Taupo.Enjoy the beauty of Taupo and the attractive surroundings and the warm hospitality at Colonial Lodge Motel.

They are situated opposite one of the most popular swimming beaches in Taupo.

With four apartments and eight studio suites containing double spa baths, LCD TV's with Sky TV, free wifi Internet, kitchens you will feel right at home. The studios and apartments are quiet, without any road noises, making them suitable for Corporate or Free Independent Travellers wishing to have a quiet night’s rest and a peaceful stay.

A: 134 Lake Terrace, Taupo T: 07 378 9846 E: reception@colonial.co.nz colonial.co.nz

They have been built to capture the warm sun in winter and to keep cool during the summer months.

Guest laundry is available and complimentary. Continental/ cooked breakfast is available delivered to suites for an additional fee. There is safe storage for bikes and skis during your stay.

The lakefront is just a short stroll as is the main shopping area and restaurants. Colonial Lodge Motel is the place to stay for all seasons and it is all about the location. They are a hidden treasure

by Lake Taupo.

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N O R TH L A N D

The Kauri Coast 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.

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 Northland adventure.

A must visit is 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.

Gallery and Studio and the Dargaville Parkover. Top quality ancient kauri bowls, platters and hollow forms turned from the amazing Ancient Kauri wood.

Visit the Dargaville Museum - walk around the replica gum diggers camp and explore the Maori, maritime and early pioneer displays. The pre maori waka - canoe is a must to see. A fascinating museum suitable for all ages. Wonderful views from the museum of the rural vista.

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.

Consider staying at the Baylys Beach Motor Camp - with accommodation to suit all budgets from tent sites to fully self contained cottages. Hire a quad bike or do a horse trek and explore the vast coastline. Maybe catch a fish for your dinner.

On arrival in Dargaville call in to the Dargaville and Kauri Coast Visitor Information Centre www.kauriinfocentre.co.nz – pick up a town map, ask about what to see, where to stay, tours to do and get information on any special events.

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 walk from the lakes to the coastline of Ripiro Beach

Adjacent to the Visitor Information Centre is the studio of world famous wood turner Rick Taylor and The Woodturners Kauri

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

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

DARGAVILLE MUSEUM

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.

Take time out to absorb the fascinating stories of the Kauri Coast. Maori, Maritime and Pioneer displays. Open every day from 9am (except Christmas Day) Harding Park 32 Mt Wesley Coast Road, Dargaville P: 09 439 7555 E: darg.museum@xtra.co.nz

The Woodturners Studio

Campervan Parking with waste and water

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

follow us on facebook

www.kaurimuseum.com

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

www.dargavillemuseum.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

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

www.thewoodturnersstudio.co.nz

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

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COROMANDEL

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

With its white sand beaches, secluded coves and large tracts of bush-clad mountain landscape, The Coromandel is the place to go for relaxing holiday or weekend escape.

The allure of the 400 km coastline with its off shore islands, draws many to stay in the bach’s and campgrounds in the small seaside towns. Whether its boating, fishing, surfing or diving, everyone has their favourite aquatic pastime and location.

Many visitors arrive on The Coromandel via Thames and head north up the western seaboard where the Pohutukawa-lined coast of the Hauraki Gulf is a burst of festive colour.

From here the coastal road winds north past the mussel farms and Coromandel Town, with the seal ending at Colville, which does rather have the feel of a last outpost. The road hugs the coast, passing an historic stone wharf and shingly deserted bays, Mount Moehau looming in the hinterland, all the way to the tip at Fletcher Bay. Here the road ends and the Coromandel Coastal Walkway begins.

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

bush around the lodges at night, perhaps while laying back in the open air bush spas or by visiting the nearby kiwi viewing platform.

As you re-enter Coromandel Town, you come upon one such creative mecca, Driving Creek Railway, known for its narrowgauge mountain railway but also home to a large collection of ceramic art. The one-hour train ride traverses a series of engineering marvels including viaducts and tunnels, up to a lookout over the bay with panoramic views. The track is lined with pottery sculptures and the station houses a pottery and craft gallery.

The eastern seaboard of The Coromandel is home to well-known surf and white sand beaches, and the sheltered waters of Mercury Bay, with its distinctive protective islands. Whitianga is the largest town, and it is here you can find a range of accommodation, from holiday parks to sophisticated apartments. Marina Park Apartments offers a relaxing getaway, situated right by the water and close to the town centre, ferry wharf and Buffalo Beach.

With almost endless coastline, a myriad sheltered bays, rivers and mountain streams – water based activities are a good way to enjoy the spring time. Combined with the cool natural green interior for tramping and hiking, you will soon see why a visit to The Coromandel really is good for your soul. www.thecoromandel.com

Driving Creek Railway & Potteries

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

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

www.kiwiretreat.co.nz

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

Suitable all ages & weather conditions.

380 Driving Creek Road, 3km north of Coromandel Town

P: 0800 327 245

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

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

www.marinapark.co.nz

E: bookings@dcrail.nz

BO OKINGS ADVIS AB LE

www.dcrail.co.nz

42 photo: Tourism NZ

RUAPEHU

New Zealand’s premier outdoor destination Escape to Ruapehu and you’ll arrive in a living landscape that’s home to ancient rainforests, active volcanoes, sacred mountains, tranquil rivers, and two of New Zealand’s cherished national parks.

Located just south of Lake Taupo in the centre of the North Island Ruapehu is home to NZ’s largest ski areas, Whakapapa and Turoa. Open later than the South Island the Mt Ruapehu fields provide spring skiing, boarding and snow play at its best.

Spring is the most diverse of the seasons, with a wide range of alpine and on-water activities on offer, whether it’s an easy family walk, an epic tramp around the mountain, mountain-biking through the beech forest, Mt Ruapehu skiing & boarding or an inspiring journey down the Whanganui River, it’s packed with ways to connect with nature.

Whatever your needs, taste or budget, Ruapehu has accommodation to suit, spread amongst the towns and villages and sprinkled throughout the beautiful countryside surrounding them. Whether you’d like a high energy social stay or you’d rather fall asleep to the warm glow of a crackling fire, you’ll find the perfect place to rest your head in Ruapehu Whether you visit for a weekend or a week, you’ll leave feeling revitalised and uplifted and wanting to escape here again soon. www.visitruapehu.com

Ruapehu’s Spring top 10 1 Ski, board, snow-play or take a scenic chairlift at Whakapapa or Turoa www.mtruapehu.com 2 Discover NZ’s Military Heritage at the National Army Museum in Waiouru www.armymuseum.co.nz 3 Take a guided hike across the Tongariro Alpine Crossing or sunset walk with Adrift Tongariro www.adriftnz.co.nz 4 Enjoy high tea in timeless elegance at the Chateau Tongariro Hotel www.chateau.co.nz 5 Take a journey back in time along the Forgotten World Railway www.forgottenworldadventures.co.nz

6 Jetboat up the Whanganui River to the Bridge to Nowhere in the heart of the Whanganui National Park www.whanganuiriveradventures.co.nz 7 Enter the historic Peak to Powderkeg alpine triathlon on 14 Oct www.peaktopowderkeg.co.nz 8 Treat yourself to arguably the best chocolate éclair in the world at Johnny Nation’s Chocolate Éclair Shop in Ohakune 9 Hire a bike and ride one of the fantastic mountain bike trails in the region www.tcb.nz 10 Go white water rafting within the Tongariro National Park www.trr.co.nz

Timber Trail Cycle Trail

Skiing Mt Ruapehu

The Chateau Tongariro Hotel

Forgotten World Railway

Powder Keg

National Army Museum, Waiouru

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whanganui

whanganui

all you need

Whanganui is a favourite weekend getaway for people from all over the country. Visitor numbers are increasing as people learn more about a place once the fourth largest city in New Zealand. History and heritage sites fit comfortably next to funky cafés and galleries. A wonderful place to relax and unwind, the beaches are open and uncrowded with the surf and black iron sands encouraging a walk along the wilder west coasts.

The town’s history is obvious – curious and traditional architecture stands out and you’re immediately aware of the old buildings lining a pretty main street. A grand old lady is the Royal Wanganui Opera House located not far from a modernist Whanganui War Memorial Centre. The Durie Hill Underground Elevator and Memorial Tower gives you a glimpse of what’s changed, numerous marae and the taonga (treasures) in the Whanganui Regional Museum hold a unique and spiritual history of the tangata whenua (people of this land). Aspire to the stars at the Ward Observatory or be happily grounded amongst Whanganui’s sense of living history.

The Durie Hill Elevator was built in 1919 to provide residents of the hilly garden suburb an easier way home from the growing city.

A long and slightly spooky pedestrian tunnel takes you to the elevator where you’re welcomed aboard for the 66 metre ride – up, up and away… In the early days it was just a shilling for a child and another shilling for your bicycle as well. As you shake and wobble to the top keep in mind the spectacular panoramic views 44

you and those early residents will share, and a little relief at not having to march up the 355 steps instead.

Looking out over the city, bridge, Whanganui River and out to the sea, you feel on top of the world with Whanganui and more stretched out before you. On a crystal clear day you can see the South Island, Mount Ruapehu and Mount Taranaki and wonder at what early travellers felt! If you’re willing to tackle the task, the Memorial Tower stands adjacent with a spiral of another 176 steps giving an even greater sense of circling in the sky. This tower is a real testament to the builders of the time and is an official Wanganui Memorial to those who died in the First World War. Constructed of cemented marine sandstone containing shell fragments (simply called shellrock) from a nearby quarry it is a solid reminder of the hardships and tragedies experienced for early pioneers. Thirty-three metres high, the rock is estimated to be more than 2 million years old.

Further down the road you won’t regret a tour of the unique and very special St Paul’s Anglican Memorial Church in Putiki.

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w h an g anui

Intricately and beautifully decorated with Māori tukutuku and lattice designs and carving, the adornment speaks of the history of the church, the people’s faith and the sharing of Māori and European spirituality. For an uplifting morning attend the Sunday service. Local residents host guided tours from Thursday to Sunday during the summer.

Artistic and creative in all the arts from an early age, Whanganui still weaves significant ties with artists, art collections, music and performance associations and clubs. In March every year, 300 and more resident artists open over 70 studios to welcome and encourage visitors. Roam, be delighted, amazed, inspired and intrigued by the longest list of eclectic, modern and traditional mediums of painting, drawing, print making, jewellery, glass art, mixed media, sculpture, pottery and ceramics. You won’t miss out at other times of the year as several galleries and studios are always open and nicely within walking distance of the River Traders and Whanganui Farmers Market.

Every weekend our riverbank hums with people visiting the local markets. Chill out and have an easy brunch, pick up some fresh fruit and vegetables and a few of the local delicacies. Hunt for a special memento or discover a unique piece of retro art that you didn’t know you were dying for. Rain or shine the markets are always on and buzzing with local history and stories.

You don’t have to drive far to get here – it’s an easy and pleasant drive within 3 hours for the lower North Island and if you’re coming from up North, a quick hour’s flight from Auckland. Get

to know your way around by calling into the i-SITE Visitor Centre.

Book a guided walking tour or do it yourself to really feel the flavour of Whanganui’s monuments, places and buildings.

There is a story around every corner. Take your time. Relax in the river city. Amble down the boardwalks and say “Kia Ora” as you meet the passers-by. Whanganui is big enough to entertain yet small enough to keep it real. We’re just waiting for you to say hello.

A VISUAL FEAST The Sarjeant Gallery

The Sarjeant Gallery is currently in an exciting temporary home at 38 Taupō Quay. With dynamic regularly changing exhibitions set in a sleek contemporary space within a historic warehouse, Sarjeant on the Quay is a "must see" in your journey of discovery through the Whanganui Region.

The Gallery's shop specialises in exclusive gifts including jewellery, objects and glass.

Across the road at 31 Taupō Quay above the i-Site, is a beautiful light filled gallery space showcasing local and national object based exhibitions.

The Sarjeant is widely recognised for the quality of its permanent collection of over 8000 artworks which include a collection of early 19th & 20th century British and European works and contemporary New Zealand art with photography as a key focus. www.sarjeant.org.nz

Visit the Sarjeant Gallery in its exciting temporary home at 38 Taupo Quay, Whanganui, opposite the i-Site.

With dynamic regularly changing exhibitions set in a sleek contemporary space in a historic warehouse, the Gallery is a “must see” in your journey of discovery through the Whanganui region.

The Gallery shop specialises in exclusive gifts including jewellery, objects and glass by New Zealand artisans.

www.sarjeant.org.nz

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WH A N G A N U I

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

PRIVATE LITTLE OASIS The Flying Fox

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

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

WAIMARIE NZ’S ONLY COAL FIRED PADDLE STEAMER

SEE WHANGANUI BY WATER PS WAIMARIE

Today the stately PS Waimarie runs many river cruises for the enjoyment of adults and children alike. Sailing on New Zealands last coal ‘fired paddle steamer Ps Waimarie offers a unique view of the Whanganui; the experience of shovelling coal for your honorary ‘Stokers Certificate’, wielding the ships mighty wheel and sending a message back to base via a pigeon. She also hosts the monthly “ Çruising on Friday” with local entertainment, weddings, jazz cruises, special Santa cruises, and caters for private charters with two saloons and covered and open decks.

Very unique to Wanganui the boat was once part of the A.C.Hatrick Company fleet that served the River dwellers and tourists for 50 years until 1952 when the PS Waimarie remained sunken abandoned and but not forgotten.

Experience river travel as it used to be on the historic Whanganui River. Enjoy flavoursome food and refreshing beverages as you cruise aboard the unique Waimarie Paddle Steamer.

CRUISES ARE MOST DAYS FROM 11AM FOR 2 HOURS Check out the days and times for sailing on the website

www.waimarie.co.nz 1a Taupo Quay, Wanganui 4500 Phone bookings are accepted: 06 3471863 E: info@waimarie.co.nz

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In 1992 enthusiasts extracted her from her watery resting place; taking seven years to fully restore the PS Waimarie. The restoration became Wanganui’s official Millennium project and at 11.45pm on New Year’s Eve 1969 when the PS Waimarie was blessed with a final karakia, invited guests boarded the paddleboat for the midnight millennium voyage.

Wanganui’s own ‘queen of the river’ has been brought back to life 100 years after her original build.

The success of the project reflects the inherent generosity of Wanganui’s citizens as over 67,000 dedicated volunteer hours, sponsorship, donated materials contributed to the restoration of the PS Waimarie.

Today there are still many volunteers who give their time to the operation and maintenance of Wanganui’s unique icon PS Waimarie.

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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

WA I R A R A PA

To mark the centenary of World War One, Te Papa joined forces with Weta Workshop to create an exhibition like no other.

The ground-breaking exhibition tells the story of eight ordinary New Zealanders who found themselves in extraordinary circumstances at Gallipoli.

Get an early-bird entry and introduction before the museum doors open.

Tickets from tepapa.govt.nz/gallipoliearlybird Limited numbers apply

FREE ENTRY TO THE EXHIBITION FROM 10AM DAILY

WELLINGTON

Springtime in the capital is glorious

BY JO MAY

The Wellington Botanic Garden is in full bloom, beer gardens and courtyards begin to fill up, there’s an abundance of excellent events to be attended and plenty of spots to refresh your wardrobe after a good spring clean. Head to Wellington this spring and get stuck into some blooming good times.

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W E L L I N GTO N

6 of the most stunning views in Wellington

As a city nestled between harbour and hills, you’re never far from a stunning vista in Wellington. To help you pick, we’ve rounded up this ultimate list of Wellington’s scenic splendour to make the most of longer days and warmer weather:

1. ZEALANDIA

4. Mount Kaukau

Set around a picturesque reservoir, ZEALANDIA is home to some of New Zealand’s most rare and extraordinary wildlife. Take a boat trip across the historic dam or get your gradient up and head to the fenceline of Zealandia at the top of the Fuchsia Track for stunning views of the sanctuary and city below.

The summit of Mount Kaukau is the most visible high point in Wellington and provides panoramic views of the city and harbour as well as the Rimutaka and Tararua Ranges to the north. The trek up is only an hour with plenty of seats to rest on and soak it all in.

5. Matiu/Somes Island

2. Wellington Botanic Garden

Over 26 hectares of unique landscape, exotic forests, native bush and colourful floral displays snake up the side of one of the city’s hills facing outwards towards the harbour. Ride Wellington’s historic Cable Car to its Lookout at the top of the Garden and then follow the Sculpture Trail back down to the city.

3. Massey Memorial

Take a drive around the city’s scenic bays and a quick walk up to this slightly lesser-known lookout point in Wellington. Occupying the site of a World War II gun battery, this marble and granite structure commemorates former Prime Minister, William Ferguson Massey.

Views of the harbour are spectacular, especially if you climb up the rough tracks to the southeast of the memorial.

Matiu/Somes Island is a predator-free reserve steeped in a rich multicultural history. Its position in the centre of the harbour makes it the perfect spot for a bit of boat watching as well as views around the entire harbour and nearby Hutt Valley. Take the East by West Ferry to the island and check out the view from the southern lookout in particular, near the island’s lighthouse.

6. Mount Victoria Lookout

No list of Wellington vistas would be complete without a Mount Victoria mention. Sitting above one of the city’s inner suburbs, the Lookout can be easily accessed via a bush walk from the city to summit, or by car or bus. The vantage point is best viewed at the start of any Wellington trip to orient yourself with the city below.

FOXGLOVE Queens Wharf is a beautiful heritage building famously transported by barge from Greta Point to Wellington’s waterfront. It is located in the heart of Wellington’s Queens Wharf precinct and just a stones-throw from Wellington’s CBD, city hotels and public transport.

OPEN 7 DAYS for lunch, dinner or drinks on our deck.

Bookings taken for functions, from small intimate dinners to weddings.

For more information please visit our website, send us an email or give us call.

04 460 9410

info@foxglovebar.co.nz

www.foxglovebarandkicthen.co.nz

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M A R L B O R O U GH

For fashion, beauty and a latte…

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

8 things for kids to do in the capital 1. Catch the historic Wellington Cable Car from Lambton Quay to the Wellington Botanic Garden for great views and photos over the city. At the top, head along to Space Place at Carter Observatory which is a huge hit with families - planetarium shows occur on the hour and the exhibition area is hands on.

2. ZEALANDIA is a world first conservation attraction and home to some of New Zealand’s rarest and most endangered wildlife. Enjoy the nocturnal sights, sounds and smells of the sanctuary valley on a ZEALANDIA by Night tour and you might be lucky enough to spot a kiwi.

3. Explore Wellington waterfront by strolling from Queens Wharf to Oriental Bay, or hire some roller-blades and glide around the harbour. Have a try at indoor rock climbing, or just grab a coffee or gelato and sit back and enjoy beautiful views of the Wellington harbour and city.

4. Te Papa is undoubtedly the most entertaining way to find out about New Zealand’s rich history, and arguably one of the best interactive museums in the world. Kids will love the interactive exhibitions, the 3D colossal squid and uncovering dinosaur bones in Bush City. The awe-inspiring Gallipoli: the scale of our war exhibition is a must-see for all ages.

5. Meet the animals at Wellington Zoo. Try kiwi spotting in the nocturnal house or experience a personal encounter with one of the animals such as the red pandas, lions, giraffes and cheetahs.

6. Head to Capital E’s free creative play space at 4 Queens Wharf. This is the perfect place for young people to ignite their imaginations, with plenty of themed activities, performances and events for children.

Lifestyle de Spa cHocoLatier tHe GoLd excHanGe tHe porceLain LounGe tory & ko WaLLace cotton

Cafés HiGHer taSte reStaurant mojo SmitH tHe Grocer StarbuckS

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

7. Hire a bike from Mud Cycles HQ & Info Centre, Wellington’s leading mountain bike shop. You will find them in the hills above the city at the base of Makara Peak – Wellington’s world class mountain bike park.

8. Visit Southward Car Museum just an hour north of Wellington. With over 500 cars and bikes you will enjoy superb automotive history. Relax afterwards at their on-site café.

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

www.oldbank.co.nz

AU C K L A N D

EVENTS THIS SPRING

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

Rugby Legends: The Spirit of The Black Jersey Until 15 October, Te Papa New Zealand’s black jersey is rugby’s most potent symbol.

Discover some of this country’s rugby legends - teams and players who embody the spirit of the black jersey.

Highlights include the ‘eel-like’ jersey worn by 1905’s ‘Originals’, the first team called All Blacks, and the jersey Richie McCaw pulled on for the quarterfinals of the 2015 Rugby World Cup. Spring Festival 23 September – 1 October, Wellington Botanic Garden Every spring, Wellington Botanic Garden hosts a celebration of the season with a wide range of events. From guided walks and workshops for garden-lovers, it’s the perfect way to explore Wellington.

Most events are free, including Tulip Sunday, which features thousands of tulips and other spring flowers with family entertainment, Dutch-themed stalls and delicious food for sale on Sunday 24 September from 11am-3pm in Wellington Botanic Garden.

Kāpiti Arts Trail 28 October – 5 November Don’t miss an explosion of colour and creativity during the Kāpiti Arts Trail! More than 100 local artists will be displaying art in a huge range of mediums along the length of the district – a great opportunity to have a fun day out with friends, talk to artists about their works and purchase some beautiful Christmas gifts.

The annual Kids’ Day Out takes place on Saturday 30 September, with free activities, music, fun, and games. Unleash your inner explorer and unlock your sense of wonder.

Otari-Wilton’s Bush, New Zealand’s only native botanic garden, opens its gates for free on Saturday 23 September, 10am2pm. The programme includes plants for sale, guided walks, demonstrations and food.

World of WearableArt™ Awards Show 21 September – 8 October, TSB Bank Arena Enter another world, where fashion, art and theatre collide when the World of WearableArt™ Awards Show returns to Wellington. Each spring, the World of WearableArt™ Awards Show (WOW®) takes centre stage at Wellington's TSB Bank Arena.

Over 100 designers from around the world enter garments that are transformed and showcased on stage in a distinctive theatrical extravaganza, with stunning sets, soundscapes, dance, lighting and world-class choreography.

'Traditional Progress' by Tsz Kwan Au (Hong Kong) - PHOTO: WOW

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

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

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

SATURDAYS 10AM - 4PM PLUS SUNDAYS DURING ‘WOW’ Supporting local artists, designers and small businesses International street food and great coffee Undercover on Wellington’s Waterfront

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

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W E L L I N GTO N

Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa

Te Papa is New Zealand's innovative and interactive national museum. Explore the great treasures and stories of this country – its unique natural environment, Māori culture, art heritage, and fascinating history.

‘Te Papa Tongarewa’ literally means ‘container of treasures’. Discover the treasures and stories of New Zealand’s land and people under one roof.

Enjoy six floors of engaging, interactive displays.

Encounter Māori and Pacific cultural treasures, New Zealand’s extraordinary natural life, its most important works of art, and its unique history. Get shaken up in the Earthquake House or come face to face with a colossal squid, then explore its life through 3D animation.

With a combination of the latest technology and classic story-telling, Te Papa educates, entertains, and inspires.

Located in the city centre Wellington, Te Papa is open every day 10am-6pm. Free entry. Charges apply for guided tours, special exhibitions and some activities.

For further details, visit www.tepapa.govt.nz

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

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

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

Late check in is available upon request.

Call us between 7am and 10pm.

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

www.capitalgateway.co.nz 54

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Mud Cycles Experience Wellingtons best adventure activity!

OCEAN MOTEL

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)

A quiet location close to the beach, restaurants & Paraparaumu Beach Golf Club. Your perfect gateway to Kapiti Island and other attractions. Self-contained access units, Childrens playground. Fast, FREE WIFI, SKY Movie Channels. Friendly Service, clean.

BOOK ONLINE AT

www.oceanmotel.co.nz or phone

P: 04 902 6424

E: book@oceanmotel.co.nz 42-44 OCEAN ROAD, PARAPARAUMU BEACH

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

AUTHENTIC WOODFIRED NEAPOLITAN PIZZAS

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.

PICK-UP AND DELIVERY ONLY!

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

E: info@eastbywest.co.nz

P: 04 499 1282

www.eastbywest.co.nz

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

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

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AU C K L A N D

HUTT VALLEY

Refreshingly different

By James Lamb

Cruise over to Lower Hutt and discover a new perspective or three.

Again and again The Dowse Art Museum proves itself to be a world class, free public gallery. The talented team bring you thought provoking contemporary art, craft and design – and recently showed Liu Jinhua’s brilliant gold porcelain works for the first time in the world outside of China.

This Spring the inspiration continues with impressive taonga (treasures), whakapapa (family heritage), toi Māori (Māori art), contemporary jewellery and power struggles. I found The Dowse a friendly space where I quietly tuned in to new ideas and issues in the world. This began with my time visiting exhibitions that opened the door to a Māori perspective on the world – two of these are on show until 5 Nov. First up was Maureen Lander: Flat-Pack Whakapapa. In this exhibition Maureen has created three installations that explore connections between whakapapa (genealogy) and raranga (Māori weaving). Big and bold. I left with ideas of creating my own version in that space at home where we naturally hang a few images of our whanau (family) – and the flatpack element led me to think “why just have those photos in the hallway?”

Fiona Clark’s collection of photographs showed me the nature of a community in Taranaki working hard to protect their taonga (treasures). For over 40 years, her documentary photography has captured the essence of the communities she has been a part of to explain to others what’s important. Her latest exhibition Fiona Clark: Te Iwi o Te Wāhi Kore reflects the activities, concerns and taonga of tangata whenua (indigenous people) of Taranaki and their continuing efforts in raising awareness on environmental challenges faced by iwi (tribe) and the Waitara community since the late 1970s.

The brand new Bellbird Eatery is a perfect pit stop. The feathered walls were the perfect backdrop as I sat and reflected on Māori 56

influences in our lives. After visiting He Taonga Te Reo upstairs at The Dowse I thought about the words I'm now using , and changes in the 30 years since te reo Māori (the Māori langusge) was recognised as one of Aotearoa’s (New Zealand’s) official languages.

Filled with tasty kai (food) I set off for more great creative spaces at Alfred Memelink Art Space and Rona Gallery in Eastbourne. On my way I stopped in at Te Puna Wai Ora (the spring of life). Amidst Petone’s main shopping strip in Jackson Street it is a sculpture created by artist Louise Purvis that’s become a magnet for water purists. Water runs over a series of stacked vessels, standing 7 metres tall like a pou (post or supporter) it signals the site of the puna (spring). Next to this piece of art was a great place to fill up the water bottles in my car. Reading the sign on site I learn that the pure artesian water arrives from metres below my feet and is filtered through sands and rocks for many years before arriving in my bottle.

Petone locals are proud of their pure artesian water supplied to homes in and around Petone, and I’m impressed to see a constant stream of water collectors - many travelling from around the greater Wellington region to regularly fill up on water for their brewing, household supply or just a refreshing sip. It sure is hard to find something that beats the fresh taste of water from taps at this icon at Te Puna Wai Ora. www.HuttValleyNZ.com

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HAWK’S INN

MOTEL • UPPER HUTT, WELLINGTON

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

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

photo: Martin Warenczuk www.beautifullandscapes.co.nz

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

www.hawksinnm ote l .co.n z 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.

Approximately 20 minutes from the Interislander Ferry.

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

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

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WA I R A R A PA

Open 7 days

Discover Wairarapa’s unique experience

DAY-TRIPPING WAIRARAPA

Quality gifts, NZ Greenstone & Jewellery Souvenirs direct from on site factory Factory tours during workdays Short information DVD

Exploring the Wairarapa from Wellington, the capital of cool, has never been easier with a series of day-trips that take in the region’s dramatic coastline, boutique shops and premium vineyards.

The Wairarapa is a region of spectacular coastlines, big skies, wide valleys and colonial townships … all on the doorstep of Wellington. Located only one hour’s drive or train ride from New Zealand’s capital city, Wairarapa oozes rural sophistication and offers visitors a peaceful retreat. With its colonial townships full of character and surrounded by vineyards, olive groves, orchards and rolling pastures in sheep, beef and dairy farms – there is always a constant reminder why this region is home to some of the country’s top artisan food producers and winemakers.

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

Visitors staying in Wellington can enjoy a variety of day-trips to the region. Whether its boutique shopping, tasting premium wine or exploring the dramatic coastline and seeing New Zealand wildlife, there’s something for everyone.

For more information visit www.wairarapanz.com

Escape to the WAIRARAPA rooms from

$129

per night*

Getting to Wairarapa: Wairarapa is located at the lower righthand corner of New Zealand’s North Island. It is only an hour’s drive or train ride north-east of Wellington and just over an hour’s drive from Palmerston North. There is a wide variety of accommodation available from luxury lodges and 5 star hotels to motels and charming cottages. It also lies at the heart of the Classic New Zealand Wine Trial – an unforgettable, 380km self-drive journey along State Highway 2 that links Wairarapa with the wine growing regions of Hawke’s Bay and Marlborough.

WAIRARAPA EVENTS

Kokomai Creative Festival Wairarapa 13 – 22 Oct A vibrant 10-day arts festival held throughout the Wairarapa featuring dance, theatre, art and music. www.kokomai.co.nz The Wairarapa Garden Tour 11 – 12 Nov An annual fundraiser for Pukaha Mount Bruce National Wildlife Centre’s forest restoration programme. Gardens include the historic Brancepeth Homestead. www.wairarapagardentour.co.nz

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

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Toast Martinborough 19 Nov New Zealand’s premier wine and food festival held in the wine village of Martinborough. www.toastmartinborough.co.nz

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Brereton Blue Pearls The original home of Blue Pearls

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

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

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

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

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

- Pearl farm on Arapawa Island.

Every pearl is unique and identified by it’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

MARLBOROUGH

MARLBOROUGH

BACK TO NATURE

BY JO MAY

Marlborough in spring welcomes crisp mornings and warm, sunny afternoons, perfect for exploring Marlborough’s expansive playground.

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M A R L B O R O U GH

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. An abundance of wildlife can be viewed at this time of year by land or water; from 1500km’s of winding coastline in the Marlborough Sounds, to viewing over 90 species of birds in the Wairau Lagoons.

Getting your bearings

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 Māori 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, restaurants, and specialty shops and boasts an absolutely stunning foreshore.

TIP: Take a photo from the coat hanger pedestrian bridge, or if you’re feeling a bit more active walk to the top of Victoria Domain, or Tirohanga Track.

If you’re visiting the 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, and a bustling high street, complemented by a thriving café and restaurant scene. Renwick is surrounded by vineyards growing Marlborough’s worldfamous wines, with 17 cellar doors within a 5km radius of the township.

If you love a bit of seafood, 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.

Wildlife

Spring is a brilliant time of year to view the abundance of wildlife in Marlborough.

Endangered kiwi and various native birds including the king shag thrive on predatorfree islands in the Marlborough Sounds, as well as tuatara, gecko and native frogs. The winding waterways hold dolphins, stingray, seals, blue penguins and even orca during spring and summer.

Getting to the best spots to view wildlife is an adventure in itself. You could walk the 70km Queen Charlotte Track, kayak to hidden bays or book on a wildlife cruise, mail boat or water taxi.

Open 7 days, 10am - 5pm 79 Aerodrome Rd, Blenheim, NZ PH: 03 579 1305 www.omaka.org.nz o u r n e w z e a l a n d.c o. n z

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Wildlife viewing highlights

Cycling & Mountain Biking

• Five species of dolphin can be viewed in the Marlborough Sounds. The world’s smallest and rarest oceanic dolphins, the Hector's, are usually out and about in boisterous fashion with some impressive leaps of excitement. Other species include blue penguins, eagerly feeding to supply their chicks and many NZ fur seals lazing in the sun on coastal rocks.

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.

• The rare king shag can be seen roosting on Blumine Island and other parts of the Marlborough Sounds, or keep your eyes peeled for the orange fronted parakeet ( or kakariki karaka) on a birdwatching tour.

• Walk to the top of Motuara Island, via penguin nesting boxes, curious robins and glimpses of saddlebacks, tui and karakiki to stunning 360 views from the lookout tower.

• Visit the Kaipupu Wildlife Sanctuary, a mainland island sanctuary just a few minutes boat ride from Picton.

• Spot rare native long-tailed bats at Pelorus Bridge Scenic Reserve.

• Kayak or walk around the historic Wairau Lagoons home to more than 90 bird species. Look out for the royal spoonbill showing off their mating plumage and godwits landing from their 12-day, 12,000km (nearly 7,500 mile) annual migration from the Arctic Circle.

• The National Whale Centre and the Picton Museum host interesting rich stories of whales and future conservation initiatives.

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!

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

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.

BLENHEI M At Blenheim TOP 10 Holiday Park, we have a range of accommodation to suit families, couples, individuals or groups.

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

DEAL #1

DEAL #2

FREE NIGHT

SITE + MOUNTAIN BIKE

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

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

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

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B L ENHEI M

Wine & Dine

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

A number of Marlborough’s 34 cellar doors provide the ultimate in wine and food matching, with restaurants and cafes onsite serving up fresh Marlborough cuisine ranging from gourmet platters to relaxed lunches prepared for and served

by Michelin-rated kitchen and front-ofhouse 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.

For more information check out MarlboroughNZ.com

PHOENIX MOTOR INN

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

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

SERVICING INTERISLANDER PASSENGERS SINCE 2000

www.phoenixmotorinn.co.nz

STAY A WHILE OR TAKE AWAY SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE! AND A PERFECT HARBOUR VIEW WINTER HOURS: 8 A M T I L L L AT E W E D TO S U N SUMMER HOURS: OPEN 7 DAYS FROM LABOUR WEEKEND

Picton TOP 10 Holiday Park Ideally situated to take advantage of all the area has to offer.

YOU’LL FIND US ON THE PICTON WATERFRONT

Motels | Units | Cabins | Sites • BBQ Area • Playground • Summer heated pool & spa • WiFi • Walking distance to town • TV room with SKY TV 0800 521 009 70-78 Waikawa Road, Picton

NOW WORLD FAMOUS IN LONELY PLANET!

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

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Experience the beauty of the

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

THE MUSSEL CAPITAL OF THE WORLD in the heart of Havelock, Marlborough

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

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

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

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

Hike, mountain bike, kayak, stand up paddle board or just kick back and relax with us. Contact us for specials and packages.

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

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

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

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

Mmm...

The ultimate chocolate experience!

Underwater Observatory – guided daily tours and stingray feeding.

VIEWING AND TASTING!

Discover the spirit of the Marlborough Sounds.

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

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

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A visit to the Makana Boutique Chocolate Factory is an experience not to be missed. Come watch us make our tantalising confections and taste a few samples - complimentary, of course.

Makana - the ultimate chocolate experience!

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

www.lochmara.co.nz

Hand-made chocolates and other natural temptations CNR RAPAURA & O’DWYER’S ROADS, BLENHEIM

Opening hours: 9-5.30pm daily Freephone 0800 MAKANA or visit www.makana.co.nz ONLY 3 MINUTES FROM SPRING CREEK ALONG RAPAURA RD

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Luxury accommodation in the heart of wine country

Chateau Marlborough offers luxury 5 star Blenheim hotel accommodation in the heart of one of New Zealand's most famous wine regions. Choose from a range of boutique hotel accommodation options, including a luxurious 2 bedroom Grande Penthouse, 1 bedroom Grande Apartments, Grande Studio Suites, Executive Suites, Superior Suites & Classic Suites, all of which are self-contained.

The only 100% locally owned and operated Qualmark rated hotel in Marlborough, Chateau Marlborough is the only 5 star Hotel in the top of New Zealand's South Island; enjoy the beautiful surroundings overlooking Seymour Square Gardens and it's only an easy 2 minute walk to Blenheim’s town centre. www.marlboroughnz.co.nz

The Chateau is Marlborough’s 5 star luxury property with 80 well appointed studios, suites and apartments offering guests luxury accommodation to provide the highest level of comfort along with modern amenities.

Overlooking beautiful Seymour Square, they are centrally located within a two minute easy walk to the town centre.

The recently refurbished Quench Restaurant and Wine Bar boasts a delicious menu, extensive selection of famous Marlborough wines an attractive outdoor dining area and pool bar. Quench is open for Breakfast and Evening Dining Daily and Lunch by appointment.

The Chateau also offers the latest in executive style Meeting and Function Rooms and offers a fully equipped Fitness Centre. Chateau Marlborough has also just recently added new studio rooms.

The Chateau has been carefully designed to meet the needs of its corporate and travelling guests. Its striking architecture epitomizes the hotels reputation and personalised service.

Chateau Marlborough is excited to announce that the new 36 studio rooms and a brand new bar and restaurant facility have just opened in late October 2016.

Corner Henry & High Streets, Blenheim Reservations call free 0800 75 22 75

P: +64 3 578 0064 E: chateau@marlboroughnz.co.nz

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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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WINE COUNTRY

MARLBOROUGH

DESTINATION Wine

BY JO MAY

It has been said that there is no wine anywhere in the world that tastes like the wine of Marlborough – the balance of extraordinary purity and intensity of flavours set around impressive aroma, distinctive fruit characteristics and appealing balanced acidity is superb.

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W I N E C O U N T RY

As New Zealand’s largest wine region, Marlborough produces 79% of the country’s wine and is the undisputed home of Sauvignon Blanc – world famous for its intense and pure flavours.

Marlborough produces 85.8% of this flagship varietal!

Join a guided tour or hire a bike, and choose from more than 30 cellar doors, tasting award winning wines along the way. Indulge in a leisurely lunch at a vineyard restaurant, and pair the wine with fresh local produce to create the ultimate match made in Marlborough.

Marlborough’s long-ripening season also produces superb Pinot Noir, Methode Traditionelle, Chardonnay and Aromatics.

There is nothing like visiting the home of your favourite wine for a tasting, because just like wine tastes better in a glass it also tastes better from the winery.

For a list of Marlborough cellar doors and wineries visit www. wine-marlborough.co.nz Lawsons Dry Hills

When you combine more than 20 years’ experience with an inquisitive spirit, the result is a perfect balance of knowledge and innovation. These two traits can be found in every bottle of Lawson’s Dry Hills wine – wonderful, top quality fruit from their carefully nurtured vineyards transformed into imminently drinkable wines using modern winemaking techniques.

The company’s wines include Sauvignon Blanc, Riesling, Chardonnay, Pinot Gris, Pinot Noir and their famous Gewurztraminer, all made from fruit grown in Wairau, Waihopai, Omaka and Awatere Valleys. These different regions and carefully selected vineyard sites provide varying characteristics derived from the different soils and microclimates, giving many options when it comes to blending to that much-anticipated Lawson’s style.

The dedicated bunch of people that make up their small team at Lawson’s Dry Hills are very ‘hands on’, living and breathing every part of the viticultural and winemaking process. They do a lot of talking and tasting before pouring their shared inspiration into every bottle.

The resulting wines offer an authentic expression of the place and the grape variety they are made from together with a certain special something that they believe can only come from passion.

It would seem that the combination of elements that go into each of their wines is a winning formula. They have lost count of all their gold medals – the certificates cover the walls in their cellar door while the shelves are buckling with the weight of all their trophies – both local and overseas. www.lawsonsdryhills.co.nz

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Wine Tours by Bike

Hunters

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 hire company, is located in Renwick, the heart of the Marlborough Wine Region, which boasts the greatest concentration of cellar doors in the country. With flat sealed roads, safe 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, a family or a group.

Jane Hunter is known around the world as the First Lady of New Zealand Wine. As owner 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 groundbreaking 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.

Steve and Jo are your friendly and experienced hosts, whose local knowledge will ensure you make the most of your precious holiday time. Come and join them, for a chance to cruise, taste and indulge in some of the best wine and food the region has to offer. You will have the freedom to choose the cellar doors and restaurants “you” want to visit that cater to your individual taste, cycle to them at your own pace without worrying that you have to keep up with others, and know that Steve and Jo are there if you need them for anything at any stage whilst you are out. www.winetoursbybike.co.nz

Hunter’s Wines are recognised as one of the pioneers of the Marlborough wine industry and one of New Zealand’s best known family owned wineries. Jane is the most awarded women in the New Zealand wine industry with an impressive set of accolades, including an O.B.E and was made a Companion to the New Zealand Order of Merit. In 2016, Jane received the Wold Blass AM Award in Australia, and the Wine Marlborough Lifetime Achievement Award. Jane is backed by a great team and three generations of family.

Hunter’s famous Sauvignon Blanc and many more wines are available to taste at their iconic cellar door, open 7 days.

An artist studio graces the property where you can meet the artist, Clarry Neame, and see him painting. Don’t forget to wander through the beautiful native garden that is home to native and endangered plants, as well as New Zealand native birds such as the Tui. www.hunters.co.nz | @hunterswinesnz

“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

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

Cellar Door | Native Garden | Resident Artist

Check out our TripAdvisor page for reviews

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C KULNATNRY D W I N EAU CO

Saint Clair Family Estate

Rock Ferry Wines

Hans Herzog

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.

Rock Ferry 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; to express the pure distinct flavours from their organic estate vineyards.

Nestled in the heart of Marlborough’s famous wine region resides one of New Zealand’s iconic family owned wine estates, where the entire process from vine to wine takes place organically, onsite. This is Hans Herzog.

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. Enjoy a locally sourced and inspired lunch from one of Marlborough’s most awarded wineries.

100% Family owned, 100% New Zealand wine.

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

www.saintclair.co.nz

The estate is the life work of Therese & Hans Herzog, Vigneron’s from Switzerland who found the perfect terroir and climate in beautiful Marlborough to establish their vineyard and artisan boutique winery.

Together with a unique team of individuals who share the same values: a passion for wine and food, commitment to excellence and quality, and a love for the great New Zealand environment they created a wine lover’s paradise with a world-class restaurant, casual Bistro and vineyard cottage.

With some of the countries most treasured wines, delicious food, stunning grounds, a beautiful tasting room, extensive tours, Hans Herzog Estate is a must-visit for food and wine lovers! www.herzog.co.nz

Open wide and say

ahh!

Come and see the recently refurbished Saint Clair Vineyard Kitchen.

HOURS 9AM- 5 P M

Open 7 days a week Selmes Road Rapaura Marlborough

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

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

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NELSON TASMAN

HEART in the centre of New Zealand Immerse yourself into New Zealand’s art capital this spring! Discover the Nelson Tasman region where creativity thrives and blossoms, cradled in the centre of New Zealand.

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N E L S O N TA S M A N

Hudson & Halls Live!

And we’re live! The oven’s caught fire, David is drinking and Peter has bad news.

“ It’s very, very, very funny… Theatre rarely gets much better than this.” METRO MAGAZINE HUDSON & HALLS LIVE! Thu 19 Oct, 8pm; Fri 20 Oct, 1pm & 8pm at Theatre Royal

THAT BLOODY WOMAN

PSS PSS

Wed 11 & Thu 12 Oct, 7.30pm at Theatre Royal

Sat 21 & Sun 22 Oct, 7pm at Theatre Royal

Nelson Arts Festival 11-27 October 2017

The annual Nelson Arts Festival ushers in Spring, featuring a stellar cast of New Zealand characters and stories, such as pioneers and icons Hudson & Halls, Ernest Rutherford and Kate Sheppard, infamous murderers on the Maungatapu, and musical mayhem from The Māori Sidesteps.

A popular fixture on the New Zealand arts and entertainment circuit, Nelson’s 23rd Festival promises a sublime range of acts over its 17-day line up including international and home-grown music, theatre, dance, clowning, comedy, cabaret, writers’ talks and fun community events.

Prepare to have your socks knocked off by That Bloody Woman, as suffragist Kate Sheppard raises hell in a punk-rock-opera, taking on the establishment and changing the lives of women worldwide.

Hudson & Halls Live! recreates the hilarity and chaos of New Zealand’s best loved TV chefs. Join the studio audience of the Hudson & Halls Christmas Special – complete with turkey stuffing and ice cream castles – for a laughter-fuelled homage to these much-loved TV characters.

Don’t miss Maungatapu – Nelson’s notorious true tale of murder brought to life. Last year’s Theatre in Development is this year’s World Premiere; a story of greed, murder, betrayal and remorse, framed by gold rush era Nelson.

All the way from Switzerland is the award-winning family show Pss Pss, a delightful and captivating performance that harks back to the era of silent films.

Musicians from as far afield as South Africa, Germany, Ireland, the USA, Canada and Australia will be sharing their songs and stories with us throughout the Festival.

And the Page & Blackmore Readers and Writers programme brings a host of famous authors to town – watch out for Catherine Chidgey, Nicola Galloway and Colin Hogg, plus the sought-after Thinking Brunches.

In a departure from recent years, this time the Festival finishes rather than begins with the iconic Masked Parade & Carnivale on Friday 27 October.

This year’s theme of ‘We are the World – people and places, cultures and creatures, local and global – who and what make up your world?’ – promises huge scope for interpretations.

As with previous years, the exuberance of the parade participants fuels a joyous, family-centred experience as the musicians, dancers and make-believe characters make their lively way through the city. Street stalls and carnivale games and rides complete the light-hearted scene as a night to remember before the 23rd Nelson Arts Festival wraps up.

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The Spring Cycle

Spring on your bike and explore the Nelson Tasman region on Tasman’s Great Taste Trail.

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 turquoise water and golden sands, while the trail through to Wakefield presents idyllic rural vistas – imagery that will stay with you long after you stop pedalling.

However, the Trail’s popularity also 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.

And of course it wouldn’t be the Tasman region without an art option. There are more than 300 working artists in the NelsonTasman region, including painters, sculptors, ceramic artists, potters, glass blowers, jewellers – many with their galleries on or near the Trail.

One of New Zealand’s ‘Great Rides’, Tasman’s Great Taste Trail is yet to be completed, but the current 110km of easy Grade 1 or 2 track between Kaiteriteri, Nelson and Wakefield gives an excellent sampling of the beauty the completed 175 km loop will afford in future years.

If you finish the Trail and want more, there are many of other cycling options in Nelson-Tasman, including purpose-built single tracks and awesome back-country tracks.

Check out www.heartofbiking.org.nz Mountain biking also gets pretty spectacular in the Nelson Tasman region.

Nelson was recently rated by IMBA (International Mountain Biking Assn) as a Gold Ride Centre - one of only six in the world.

Home to a wide variety of world class mountain bike trails, many of the trails are within riding distance of central Nelson and rise to between 300-800m, making them perfect for evening rides or when you don't have all day to go exploring.

Linking trails mean you can combine two or three trails in a single loop, making up a solid 3-5hr ride. What you can be sure of is that every single one of them will leave you with a huge smile on your face and an appetite for more! Check out https://nelsonmtb.club The combination of a temperate climate, a variety of accommodation options, an airport with 400 flights a week connecting to other parts of New Zealand and hundreds of kilometres of cycle-trails makes a biking holiday in this region an enticing idea.

HANDMADE IN NEW ZEALAND

G R A N D M E R C U R E N E L S O N M O N AC O H O T E L

BED & BREAKFAST PAC K AG E

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

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

FOR A CHANGE IN DIRECTION - G E T A W AY TO N E L S O N! The Grand Mercure provides all the comforts you could wish for The Monaco Kitchen, health & beauty spa, hairdresser, pool, gym, boutique jeweller and conference facilities.

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

6 Point Road, Monaco, Nelson I P 03 547 8233 I hotel@monacoresort.co.nz Free parking www.monacoresort.co.nz Free WI-FI

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Nelson is rated by IMBA (International Mountain Biking Assn) as a Gold Ride Centre - one of only six in the world.

PERFECTLY POSITIONED

BOUTIQUE HOTEL ACCOMMODATION & RESTAURANT IN GOLDEN BAY

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.

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

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

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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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AU C K L A N D

Holiday and Wellness Experience Kaiteriteri

Be our guest... ...tucked away amongst the bush with panoramic views of Kaiteriteri beach and estuary and close to the Abel Tasman National Park, Kimi Ora Eco Resort offers a place of peace, seclusion and everything you need to relax and unwind.

Try one of our package deals starting from just $75pp for our Day Stay Massage Package or from $249 for 2 for our Overnight Massage Package to experience all that Kimi Ora Eco Resort has to offer.

Kimi Ora Eco Resort 99 Martin Farm Road, Kaiteriteri P: 0508 KIMIORA (5464672) E: info@kimiora.com www.kimiora.com

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

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EVENTS THIS SPRING in nelson South Island Masters Games 2017 Wednesday 4th-Sunday 8th October 2017 Experience the camaraderie of the South Island Masters Games in Nelson. With 40 sports on offer over five days it's the perfect opportunity to escape to sunny Nelson and meet new friends, connect with old ones, get active and have fun. www.simasters.com 2017 Nelson Arts Festival Masked Parade & Carnivale Friday 27th October 2017 The theme this year is 'We are the World. Peoples and places, cultures and creatures, local and global, who and what make up your world?’ On the website, www.nelsonartsfestival.co.nz there's also a free downloadable booklet about making masks and music. www.nelsonartsfestival.co.nz New Zealand Cider Festival Saturday 4th November 2017 Celebrate the diversity of Cider in NZ at the second New Zealand Cider Festival! Sample both Traditional and New World varieties from around the country in a relaxed and friendly festival environment with gourmet dining and great entertainment. www.nzciderfestival.com

Abel Tasman Cycle Challenge Saturday 18th November 2017 Nelson Tasman cyclists’ favourite roads have been linked together to create the Abel Tasman Cycle Challenge event. We welcome all cyclists to enter the 2017 event and to discover why this region is the true Centre of Cycling in New Zealand.

The course can be ridden on road bikes, mountain bikes and any other bike that meets the safety standards. Riders of Electric Bikes are welcomed and will have a separate starting time. www.atcc.nz

A stunning Destination

Located at the beautiful northern end of Abel Tasman National Park lies Awaroa Lodge; a retreat nestled amongst nature offering peace and tranquillity accessible only by water or air.

Featuring family rooms and architecturally designed suites built to maximise views over a protected wetland area and carefully crafted to complement the environment while placing you amongst it. Our restaurant and bar opens daily with outdoor pizzeria and a sunny conservatory ideal for a sunset dinner after a day spent exploring.

Walkers off the Abel Tasman Coastal Track are welcome.

Awaroa Lodge – rebranded and refurbished in 2017 and now open all year round. www.awaroalodge.co.nz

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ANATOKI SALMON FISHING CATCH IT & EAT IT Do you have a big craving for fish? Then you need to try out Anatoki Salmon fishing in Golden Bay. The best thing about Anatoki Salmon is that you get to catch your own fish and eat it on the spot in the cafe.

What could be more fun than a fishing session with your family or friends?

Additionally, the farm is located next to Anatoki Tame Eels, so there are plenty of activities you can engage in after you've eaten your fish.

The farm is just 7 km from Takaka Township in the captivating Anatoki Valley and on the banks of the Anatoki River which flows through the beautiful New Zealand forest. They don't charge any entry fee, and the fishing gear you need is provided free-of-charge since. Furthermore, you don't need any fishing experience, and you get to spend as much time as you like catching your salmon and enjoying the farm atmosphere.

The way it works is very simple; you only pay per weight of your catch.

Then you get to watch as the team cleans the fish for you at no extra cost.

If you want your fish hot smoked, sashimi style or vacuum packed for take-away, they also provide those services at reasonable fees. Anytime you are in New Zealand or around Takaka, Golden Bay, and you want to eat good fish, just come to the Anatoki Salmon Farm.

Open 7 days from 9am-4.30 pm, and no reservations are required. www.anatokisalmon.co.nz

RELAX & REVIVIVE WITH WILSONS ABEL TASMAN NATIONAL PARK Discounts for Interislander and KiwiRail Scenic readers

Discover how good the Abel Tasman will make you feel Introducing our new Vista II. Now we have two Vista Cruise catamarans so it’s even easier to escape into New Zealand’s finest coastalnational park.

Treat yourself! Pay the same fare as a water taxi to travel with speed and style with the best views and comfortable seating on upper and lower decks. Relax onboard or choose how active you would like to be with walking and guided sea kayaking options.

Departs from Kaiteriteri every day at 9.20 am and returns 4.10 pm, with coach connections from Nelson and Motueka.

From 1 October 2017, three sailings per day allow you to spend a full or half day in The Park.

1. Depart Kaiteriteri 9.20 am, return 12.55 pm 2. Depart Kaiteriteri 10.30 am, return 2.40 pm 3. Depart Kaiteriteri 1.00 pm, return 4.15 pm

New Barbecue Cruise Book the day before to enjoy a classic Kiwi barbecue with free-range rib-eye steak (or vegetarian pattie) cooked to your liking on board. Available on the 9.20 am departure to 30 September, or 10.30 am departure from 1 October.

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, join us for a journey through the National Park, staying overnight at our Beachfront Lodges: Torrent Bay Lodge and Meadowbank Homestead in 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)

From 20 October, a 4th sailing at 4.30 pm returns to Kaiteriteri at 6.00 pm

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

ESCAPE YOUR WORLD TO OURS

Explore Nelson’s wine trail to discover family-owned wineries in one of New Zealand’s small but award-winning regions. 24 cellar doors surrounded by three national parks bring you world class wine in what could only be a Nelson Tasman surrounding. Mountains to beaches, Chardonnay to Pinot, Nelson is a memorable exploration of land, sea, sky and palate. Enjoy your wine with locally caught snapper or freshly shucked oysters and send a box of memories back home.

From our vines to your tables.

Find wonderful. Find Nelson Wine.

Discover more online at winenelson.co.nz

K A I KO U R A

kia ora FROM KAIKOURA Over the past few months as SH1’s rebuild between Blenheim and Kaikoura progresses, the community receives numerous queries about some of our locals, the NZ Fur Seal. Are they still here, are they okay, were any hurt in the earthquake? The short answer is, “Yes, the seal population and seal community is fine, thanks for asking.”

Seals are protected under the Marine Mammals Protection Act 1978 and The Wildlife Act 1953. On 6 August 2014, a new whale sanctuary, fur seal sanctuary and marine reserve was opened.

Kaikoura has the most biologically rich ocean environment in the world at over 500 metres' depth with its deep canyons so close to shore. This extraordinary marine environment needs the recognition and protection of these new reserves, sanctuaries and the tighter fishing limits.

The new protections include the Kaikoura Whale Sanctuary of 4696 square kilometres, from Gore Bay to the Clarence River out to 56 kilometres including both the territorial sea and the Exclusive Economic Zone. The sanctuary provides protection for the sperm, humpback, southern right, blue, killer and other whales that frequent the area. It is fitting that New Zealand's first whale sanctuary is in the area of Whale Watch which up until November 2016, supported a $120 million per year tourism industry.

The Ohau Point Fur Seal Sanctuary is also a New Zealand first.

This sanctuary is needed to enable limits on public access to protect what has become an internationally recognised tourism destination. The seal pups playing in the local waterfall delight tens of thousands of visitors and this measure will help ensure this experience is protected into the future.

The Hikurangi Marine Reserve is the largest and deepest adjacent to either the North or South Islands, covering 10,416 hectares and extended out to 23.4 kilometres. It is the fifth new marine reserve created by the Government this year. No mining, fishing or harvesting of any kind is allowed in this fully protected area covering the deep canyons. (Source: Department of Conservation, August 2014) Destination Kaikoura recently met with the DoC’s Community Ranger and Iwi Advisor, Brett Cowan to ask about changes with seals and the seabed since the November 2016 earthquake. He says, “Since the earthquake (Nov 2016), a totally new landscape has emerged. Despite the hardship many businesses are going through at the moment, from a marine and ecology perspective, there’s a lot of new opportunities to use the earthquake and uplift of the seabed and landscape to create a range of educational tools/programs for school children, University students and scientists. For example, on the drive from the town to the Point Kean Seal Colony (4kms), at the 3km point is a stream where whale bones have been exposed since the earthquake. The bones have always been there but were covered at high tide. Due to the seabed been uplifted, the whale bones are now

exposed. This new environment is a budding archaeologists new learning environment, ‘where science can come alive’ and its neat that kids are getting switched on to science, geology and archaeology.”

Point Kean Seal Colony

Point Kean Seal Colony is one of three colonies in the Kaikoura district. Pre-earthquake, Point Kean was a popular place for seals (about 200-300) because they can swim inshore and settle on and around the rocks to recover after their long trips for food out to sea. Seals are often offshore for 3-5 days at a time and will rest for up to 2 days when they return to land. The tidal waters bring them close to shore and the seals settle/lie on flax bushes and the boardwalk near the carpark (on the left-hand side of carpark as you arrive). Most of these seals are older and they’ve chosen Point Kean as their retirement village. Male seals (bulls) don’t have to fight the younger males for the ladies and just like to lie in peace in the sun. There is a natural appeal for visitors to get up close and personal with seals to take photos when they see them resting so close to the carpark. Brett highly recommends visitors stay 10metres (30ft) from the seals when taking photos as seals can become aggressive to protect their young or their nesting area.

Post-earthquake with rocks and high tide now much further out for the seals, it is anticipated there may be less seals around the carpark area. But on the day we visited, there will still plenty close to the carpark. If you can’t see seals on the left side of the carpark, walk on top of the seabed (rocks) toward the outer right-hand side of Point Kean. Here you’ll see a more active colony that has emerged post-earthquake. This is where

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the young, fit male seals are fighting for territory (teenager years) and who have established a new ‘hang-out or real estate territory’ to impress the ladies. It’s definitely worth a walk across the new 1 kilometre stretch of rocks to get close to the Pacific Ocean and new seal colony. Permanent signs will be erected for visitors to read to ensure preservation of the new colony is maintained and both seals and visitors are protected.

Ohau Point Seal Colony

Ohau Point has always been an iconic spot for visitors to view seals. Pre-earthquake there were approximately 6000 seals.

Readers may recall the wonder of walking to the waterfall and seeing seal pups basking in the waters of the stream or seeing them in numbers playing amongst the water and rocks at the Ohau Point Seal Colony. When Mums are out to sea getting food (kai), seal pups like to venture along the foreshore and when they find the stream, like to explore and play in the waterfall and stream. An unexpected natural visitor attraction in its own right.

In the 1950s there were only a few seals around the Ohau Point area. After roadworks and blasting to improve SH1 occurred, 100-200 seals appeared and seals discovered the waterfall by accident. Ohau Point became a good feeding ground for seals and over the past sixty years, seal numbers have continued to grow.

Good news post-earthquake is that the waterfall is still intact and seals are still around in the area. The pool at the base of

the waterfall is shallower than before but once the rebuild is completed, a pool and stream will be deepened and we anticipate seal pups will return. Most of the seals and pups have moved further north of Ohau Point and once the rebuild or relocate of road and rail is finished, its expected the Ohau Seal Colony will settle back into a natural rhythm again. DoC believes with careful planning, new opportunities can arise with manoeuvring of boulders and rocks to create new rockpools and creating retaining walls which will encourage seals to stay in the area and create new and exciting visitor attractions.

Brett Cowan says, “It’s important we get the planning right as we get used to the new environment. The unique biodiversity of the region is worth taking the time to develop safe attractions and ensure the protection of our marine mammals for years to come.

We plan to develop a community program (with volunteers) to help monitor the Point Kean and Ohau Point colonies in the future. It’s a no brainer to preserve and conserve what’s not only important to the community but also to the visitor economy.”

Some of the best ways to view seals and learn more about them are taking trips with Kaikoura Kayaks, Whale Watch Kaikoura, Encounter Kaikoura and Seal Swim Kaikoura.

State Highway 1 Progress and New Cycle Trail

A Government investment of $231 million will create a new cycleway along State Highway 1 north of Kaikoura and this is

New Zealand’s Ultimate Year Round Marine Experience

Freephone 0800 655 121

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exciting news for the Marlborough and Kaikoura districts.

A 60-kilometre section of the quake-hit highway is set to receive a new separated cycleway, wider shoulders and additional safety barriers under the funding and the features will make the road better than before.

The new separated cycleway and walkway between Okiwi Bay and Mangamaunu will provide a safer and more enjoyable way for people to experience this section of the iconic coastline on foot or by bike.

The improvements will provide for great journeys and enhance visitor experiences to support increased tourism and economic growth in the region. The highway and Main North Rail Line remained on track to open before the end of the year.

Glenn Ormsby, General Manager Destination Kaikoura said, “Since the earthquake the town has seen a significant drop in visitors due to road accessibility issues, which is not unexpected. However, the prospect of new product like cycling and hiking between Marlborough and Kaikoura is exciting and will add to Kaikoura’s profile as a strong visitor destination in its own right. The new trail will complement the existing marine and wildlife offering and we anticipate the uplifted seabed will also attract new scientific and education visitors. It is exciting to see what are new opportunities will unfold in the future.”

Swimming with and watching Kaikoura’s Dusky Dolphins!

Source image: NZTA artists impression of SH1 road with cycle path, 25 July 2017

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

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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.

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

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

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

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

An award winning Museum experience showcasing Kaikoura’s diverse natural, cultural and social history.

OPEN DAILY 10AM – 4PM

Showcasing Kaikoura’s diverse and colourful history

Located in the landmark “craypot” building, in Kaikoura’s West End, the award winning museum offers a modern and relaxed environment with a contemporary and fun approach to telling the stories of Kaikoura’s natural, social and cultural journey. The Museum project recently won an interior architecture and colour award at the Nelson/Marlborough regional architecture awards and also got runner up in a national Museum project excellence award.

Through their impressive collections, exhibitions, events and programmes they bring to life the richness of their unique heritage inspiring visitors to explore and enjoy Kaikoura’s diverse and colourful history.

P. 03 319 7440 Kaikoura Museum Visit our facebook page for news and updates 84

Displays include excellent exhibits of Māori taonga, colonial life, whaling, surfing and memorabilia from Kaikoura's past. They also offer research facilities for historians or those wanting to find out more about their family history. www.kaikoura-museum.co.nz

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Relaxing Hanmer

From soothing indulgence to exciting family fun there’s something for everyone!

Surrounded by mountains and forests with quaint boutiques and giant redwood trees, Hanmer Springs is unlike other small towns in New Zealand – it instantly relaxes you, but don’t be fooled, there is plenty to do in this pretty and quiet alpine village.

Hanmer Springs has long been a favourite holiday destination for South Islanders and it’s not surprising the village is now becoming a must-do on the itineraries of other visitors too, attracting more than half a million people every year.

It’s ideally situated for those travelling between the top of the South Island and Christchurch, has a great range of accommodation and eateries and activities for everyone – from adrenalin junkies to those wanting a little (or a lot of) indulgence. This is also an ideal place to experience the snowcapped mountains that spring brings.

173 years of goodness

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

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

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

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

Where relaxation begins visithanmersprings.co.nz 85

HANMER SPRINGS

New Zealand’s alpine spa village

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

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

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

So much to do!

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

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

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

Families will be delighted to see the farm park, a maze, mini-golf and the village cruiser bikes (which even have baby seats).

The best place to

Relax together

Nelson Kaikoura

Hanmer Springs

Christchurch

Queenstown

HCA.CO.NZ HST1822

South Island

0800 4 HANMER hanmersprings.co.nz Open seven days 86

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Everything you need

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

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

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

Hard to leave

Ask a local what the best thing about Hanmer Springs is and you’ll probably find they’ll say ‘being here’. That’s because with its fresh alpine air, mountains, forests and incredible views just being in Hanmer Springs feels good. The village has an incredibly laidback atmosphere that is hard to describe – it is the ultimate place to relax and unwind.

You can go at your own pace here. There’s no rush, unless you want one!

It is not a place for stress, it’s a place people come to escape. One of the best things about Hanmer Springs is its people. They’re warm, friendly and welcoming. So many came for a holiday, fell in love with the place and never left – perhaps you will too! visithanmersprings.co.nz

ENJOY THE RESORT LIFESTYLE IN HANMER SPRINGS

Experience the best of Hanmer Springs with the landmark Heritage Hotel, and just a short stroll from the famous Thermal Pools.

Call to book on 0800 738 732 or visit heritagehotels.co.nz/hanmersprings

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C H R I S T C H U R C H/C A N T E R B U RY

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perfect coffee?

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Explore Christchurch & Canterbury By Jo May Christchurch is the gateway to New Zealand's South Island. You can ski, bungy jump, hike, mountain bike, raft, surf, swim, golf, see whales, dolphins and seals, visit wineries and gardens, shop, be entertained and awed, and so much more, all within 2 hours of Christchurch.

Christchurch, New Zealand’s oldest city, is now the country’s newest destination story.

After the life-changing earthquakes, the Canterbury city has become one of the most unique urban redevelopments in the world, attracting attention for creativity and innovation.

The constantly-evolving urban landscape is a work in progress but Christchurch is described as having reached its reconstruction peak.

Reasons to visit…..

65A Main North Road, Woodend (Opposite the BP station) w w w .th r e e l l a m a s c o f fe e . c om

There’s so many fantastic activities and experiences in the city to suit all ages. Have a look through what’s on offer and be inspired by the variety of different things to see and do in Christchurch.

• Spend a day marvelling at amazing artworks on display at the Christchurch Art Gallery • Peddle your way around town on a SPARK Bike and see the city up close • Get inspired by huge Street Art murals around the city • See incredible new architecture, both completed and on the rise • Head down the historical New Regent Street for a spot of shopping amongst the Spanish mission style buildings • Take in a show at the beautifully restored Isaac Theatre Royal • Wander around the Botanic Gardens and take in the amazing flora and fauna • Check out the view from the upstairs open air deck at Dux Central, and enjoy a delicious craft beer

Discover Three Llamas On your way towards Christchurch from Hanmer and the Waipara Valley why not indulge in a speciality coffee.

At Three Llamas Gourmet Coffee they are a little bit different. their coffee is proudly Peruvian. In fact their coffee only comes from a small mountainous region in Northern Perú, recognized for its exceptional and distinctive high quality coffee. You will see their coffee selection is so good it doesn’t need to be blended with coffees from other countries.

That’s right, they don’t do blends; no confusion, just the finest Arabica coffee from the best growing region in Perú.

You can come in and enjoy an excellent espresso, grab a bite to eat and buy your choice of freshly roasted specialty coffee beans from their wide selection on offer…..you may even be able to watch them when they are roasting!

Three Llamas Gourmet Coffee is situated on the Main North Road, Woodend and only 25 km from Christchurch.

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• Step back in time and shop at the beautifully restored Tannery arcade in Woolston • Take your bike or explore by foot around the Port Hills tracks, and get stunning views over the city, mountains and sea • Drive to the beautiful French settled town of Akaroa for a day trip and eat cheese along the way at Barry’s Bay • Have a feast for the senses at the Riccarton House farmers market on Saturday mornings • Hire a surf board, or join a learn to surf lesson at Sumner beach – followed by ice cream of course • Tap in to your childhood, and have a play at The Commons. Jump rope, walk the balance beam and build a tower with the building blocks • Shop up a storm at Re:START, and have a bite to eat at one of the many food trucks • Visit the International Antarctic Centre and experience the magic of Antarctica without leaving Christchurch • Take a trip to the stunning Waipara region, and take in some of the country’s best wine and food • Have a traditional Christchurch experience, with a punt down the Avon, a tram around the city, and a double decker city bus tour • Have a night out on the town with dinner, drinks and dancing on St Asaph or Victoria Streets o u r n e w z e a l a n d.c o. n z

C H R I S T C H U R C H/C A N T E R B U RY

Art for Arts Sake

ANTARCTIC CHILL!

The Arts scene in Christchurch is exciting, inspiring and ever evolving. Amazing street art murals, re-opened public art galleries, and quirky events and entertainment are all there to be discovered.

Experience the wonder and magic of Antarctica without leaving Christchurch, at one of New Zealand’s best, award winning tourist attractions.

The Christchurch Art Gallery Te Puna O Waiwhetu is Canterbury’s largest art gallery, with a huge collection of classic and contemporary pieces. Moving through the space, the gallery showcases much loved pieces from local, national and international artists, as well as travelling exhibitions. The way the gallery has curated some of the works has been thought about in a different way, challenging the way art is traditionally displayed and viewed.

• Experience real snow and ice then, brace yourself as wind chill plummets the temperature to -18C in an indoor Antarctic Storm • Encounter rescued Little Blue Penguins • Hear stories and legacies of the great Antarctic explorers • Spend time in the gallery, learn about climate, wildlife, glaciers, and all things Antarctic • Climb aboard for a ride in our amazing all terrain Antarctic vehicles – the Hagglund • Go on an Antarctic voyage of discovery in our 4D theatre – a multisensory experience not to be missed!

Hours of fun for all ages, this is the closest you’ll get to Antarctica without mounting your own expedition!

Open daily from 9am Free Penguin Express Shuttle from Christchurch city.

Several departures daily from Canterbury Museum.

Book now at iceberg.co.nz

Hägglund rides Little Blue Penguins 4D movies Antarctic storm experience and much more...

Free transport from CBD

10% OFF

General Admission Valid until 31 Oct 2017 on adults & child’s passes only.

Mention this advert, limit two per booking.

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C H R I S T C H U R C H/C A N T E R B U RY

. On north/south bypass. Airport 8min, city 15min . 13 sunny ground floor studio and 1 brm units . Plus standalone, 3 bedroom, fully equipped townhouse with dishwasher, full size fridge/ freezer, own laundry, 2 toilets (sleeps 8).

Set in large park like grounds . FREE wireless internet . LCD TVs with Sky Guest Select 50 + channels . Adjacent to Groynes reserve with walkways, picnic areas etc, Rosebank Café and Function Centre . Close to Peppers Clearwater Golf Resort, Orana Park, Willowbank & Antarctic Centre . Guest BBQ, children’s playground, trampoline, Petanque . Winner of 2015 Community Pride Garden Award

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

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CONT.... CoCA, the Centre of Contemporary Art hosts a collection of works, and hosts performances by contemporary artists. The galleries mission is to intrigue and inspire, and start conversations about art and how it is processed by the community.

ARCADIA MOTEL Comfortable, spacious affordable accommodation

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

• Family sized units • Disabled access unit • Free internet available • Pet friendly motel

Loads of Campervan parking

FREEPHONE 0800 272 2342 564 Ferry Rd, Woolston, ChCh E: info@arcadiamotel.co.nz www.arcadiamotel.co.nz 90

Street Art has changed not only the way the city looks, but also people’s perception about large scale graffiti art in public spaces. Large murals have been painted on walls around the inner city, and the scale and skill of the works have to be seen to be believed.

The large murals in the city run as part of the street art festive Spectrum, part of Oi You! Festival creator George Shaw’s project.

Grass roots movement Gap Filler arose after the earthquakes as a way to fill in black inner city spaces and draw people in to the inner city. Although many of the gap filler projects are temporary, some of the favourites have found more permanent spaces, such as the Dance O Mat and The Commons.

New Regent Street is home to The Auricle, a gallery dedicated to sound art. The Auricle has a monthly exhibition and regular performance programme featuring local, national and international sonic artists in its octophonic gallery. The Auricle provides a relaxed space for challenging listening and a regular live venue for performative audio experimentation.

The Physics Room is a space dedicated to contemporary art in Christchurch. This big open loft space above C1 Café hosts a rage of exhibitions from artist talks to new and emerging artists’ shows.

There is no better place for a getaway than Christchurch and Canterbury this spring! www.christchurchnz.com o u r n e w z e a l a n d.c o. n z

AKAROA

The Natural Beauty of Akaroa & Banks Peninsula

BY JO MAY

For breathtaking views over the peninsula's bays and beaches, take a drive along the Summit Road – the crater rim of the old volcano that formed Akaroa Harbour. Or lace up your walking shoes and explore on foot. There's a vast network of walking trails here, offering amazing views, rich displays of native bush and birdlife, and blissful peace and quiet. Spend some time exploring the peninsula's outer bays. You'll find some stunning secluded beaches ripe for a picnic and a swim.

Marine wildlife

A K A ROA MUSEUM

Refreshing the Peninsula’s past Akaroa Museum is opening new, refreshed exhibitions.

The sparkling waters and dramatic coastline of Banks Peninsula are home to a host of marine life including the world's smallest and rarest dolphin - Hector's dolphin. Swim with these playful mammals for an unforgettable wildlife encounter. A trip out on the water – by boat or sea kayak could also reward you with sights of New Zealand fur seals, white-flippered penguins, little blue penguins, and scores of birdlife overhead. And on the shoreline lies the mainland's largest white-flippered penguin colony - the only penguin species endemic to Canterbury.

Akaroa township

The small seaside township of Akaroa simply oozes charm.

Nods to its history as a French settlement are everywhere, with pretty French-named streets, lined with historic cottages cloaked in roses. While away the hours browsing boutique shops and craft galleries, and stop for a pickme-up of fine local food and wine at a café or restaurant overlooking the shimmering waters of Akaroa Harbour.

Relaxation doesn’t get much better than this!

Be intrigued by unique objects and stories from Banks Peninsula’s past.

Open every day 10.30am to 4.00pm Located in the heart of Akaroa, at 71 Rue Lavaud, opposite the 4 Square Store.

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

P: 03 304 1013 E: akaroa.museum@ccc.govt.nz www.akaroamuseum.co.nz

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A K A R OA

Akaroa has all the makings for the perfect romantic getaway. Take your pick of a swath of luxurious accommodation options, enjoy a long lunch or lingering dinner at a cosy café or restaurant, and stroll hand in hand through the town's enchanting streets and shops.

Gallery has a range of beautiful jewellery for you to choose from: New Zealand Blue Pearls, Tahitian Black Pearls, Akoya White Pearls, New Zealand greenstone and whalebone, Baltic amber jewellery & a selection of their handmade diamond rings. www.nzbluepearls.co.nz

A rich & colourful history

Akaroa Museum reflects the varied and colourful history of Banks Peninsula. Three heritage buildings-the Langlois-Eteveneaux cottage (early 1840’s), the Customs House (early 1850’s) and the Court House (1878) are part of the Akaroa Museum complex. ‘The Long Harbour-a 20 minute DVD tells of the volcanic origins of Akaroa and it’s settlement.

The permanent collection includes a complete edition of the Akaroa Mail from 1876, nineteenth and twentieth century costume, photographic and family history archives. Right in the centre of Akaroa. The Museum also has a great gift shop with excellent cards, books and Maori carvings. Open daily 10.30 am until 4.30 pm. www.akaroamuseum.co.nz feast your eyes

The Blue Pearl Gallery is situated at the end of the main wharf in Akaroa. Also home to European Jewellers where unusual handmade pieces are born. Their jewellery is designed and crafted by the two jewellers on the premises. Their Blue Pearl

unique nature ADVENTURES

Only 90 minutes away of Christchurch, Pohatu Penguins/ Plunge NZ Ltd offers unique nature and sea-kayak tours from Akaroa, New Zealand, to Pohatu Marine Reserve on the outer coast of Akaroa volcano.

The tour options all visit Pohatu Marine Reserve situated between dramatic volcanic headlands on Banks Peninsula.

Get up close and personal with the little blue penguin. You are guaranteed to see penguins in their natural habitat during the breeding season from September to mid February.

Pohatu Penguins different activities will allow you to discover the endemic wildlife of this area. Whether it is by sea kayak or 4WD scenic nature tours you will experience spectacular scenery and wildlife. www.pohatu.co.nz

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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Spectacular Air Safaris

To view the beauty and scale of the Aoraki Mount Cook there is nothing better than seeing it from the air. Air Safaris has been flying aircraft in and around the Mount Cook and Westland National Parks since 1970. Air Safaris has grown from a single aircraft operation and now flies 9 aircraft and is one of New Zealand’s largest scenic flight airlines.

photo: Vaughan Brookfield

Nestled in the Southern Alps, Aoraki/Mount Cook Mackenzie region is a magical part of the world. It is one of New Zealand’s most picturesque places and is an essential stop on your trip.

Aoraki Mackenzie is a gold-rated dark sky reserve, in recognition of the quality of the almost light-pollution-free skies of the Mackenzie Basin. The Mackenzie Basin, in the South Island of New Zealand, and includes Aoraki Mt Cook National Park and the villages of Lake Tekapo, Twizel and Mt Cook.

The 4300sq km area is bounded by a spectacular alpine landscape with the Southern Alps in the west, and the Two Thumb Range in the east.

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Experience breathtaking alpine scenery on an exciting scenic flight with Air Safaris from their base at Lake Tekapo on the main highway between Christchurch and Queenstown – a must do South Island attraction. The Grand Traverse flight from Lake Tekapo is their most popular air tour and covers a diverse range of alpine scenery.

Experience a flight of a lifetime with Air Safaris www.airsafaris.co.nz

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MACKENZIE/AORAKI

A CAPTIVATING LANDSCAPE BY JO MAY

west coast

CHILLING ON THE ONE COAST THAT DARES TO DO DIFFERENT

BY CHRIS BIRT

Fly and flop is an old concept in travel, but it’s now been given a new twist in the Untamed Natural Wilderness that is the West Coast.

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Since its inception, Fly and flop has had a focus on beaches. And no wonder it’s popular with legions of holidaymakers. After all who doesn’t like time to reflect, refresh, rejuvenate and soak up the power so graphically reinforced by a surging sea?

With that in mind, finding a destination that offers wild, raging surf while delivering on a range of more benign activities ought to be a priority for those wanting to break free of their pressurecooker, high-tech lifestyle.

In the Land of the Long White Cloud nowhere is the sea more powerful, more dynamic and more inspiring than along the rugged coastline of the West Coast.

Combine that attraction with the chance to soak up heritage, history, adventure - as soft or as hard as one prefers - along with diverse entertainment and those with travel in their hearts have a compelling reason to head to somewhere different for a change.

The West Coast does different with a capital D. While there is no bad time to visit the western extremities of the South Island, springtime certainly provides plenty of good reasons to head into the wilds of this long thin coastal strip. This soft season has lower levels of demand for accommodation, tour activities, restaurants and cafes than the peak summer period.

Spring brings to The Coast subtle changes. The morning chill that is a feature of winter in these parts begins to button off, the heavy frosts found in alpine valleys are less frequent and the snowline recedes further up the steep slopes of the Southern Alps.

It’s a great time to head westward, with a Fly and flop regime now highly recommended for those who have done the golden

sands gig in the more traditional holiday spots. Flying into The Coast can be undertaken via Air New Zealand’s services from Christchurch or with Sounds Air from Wellington. Both involve 45 minutes in the air and on a fine day the bird’s eye view is nothing short of spectacular.

But other modes of transport are available, each providing another perspective this thin sliver of green and blue.

KiwiRail’s TranzAlpine rail journey from Christchurch is regularly cited by travellers as one of the greatest excursions of its type anywhere in the world. The golden grasslands of the Canterbury Plains, narrow twisting river canyons and lush rainforest - all viewed through giant panoramic windows - add to the appeal of a journey deserved of such acclaim.

Self-driving offers a chance to set the pace. Travel can be from the north, following one of two recently-launched touring routes from the ferry terminus at Picton, or from the east over the modern miracle of engineering that is the Otira viaduct and through the picturesque alpine village of Arthur’s Pass.

The major rental agencies operate on The Coast with the Most, but it’s always desirable to book well ahead. Even the spring season experiences periods of high demand for vehicles and fleet numbers fluctuate, as does demand.

Once transport arrangements are settled, the next big question is where to go and what to see. The reality is that travellers are spoilt for choice in a region that stretches for more than 500 kilometres and offers, literally, a veritable goldmine of attractions and activities. And here’s where the fly/drive/ride and flop scenario kicks in.

WEST COAST SOUTH ISLAND

Heli RAFTING Family RAFTING EASYTO EXTREME

Multiday Expeditions Adventure Fishing Hotpool Ra ing

Located just 3 minutes from Hokitika township on the Historical Blue Spur Goldfields, capturing majestic views of the Southern Alps, Tasman Sea and breathtaking sunsets. Stations Inn offers luxury accommodation and an award-winning restaurant.

Luxurious executive studio units, or premiere king suites, each with a balcony, outdoor setting and fabulous view.

NATIONAL BEEF AND LAMB AWARDS 2005-2017 Lunch bookings available for groups by arrangement. Pre-dinner drinks from 5:00pm.

Evening a la carte dining from 6:00pm Tuesday – Saturday. Bookings are advised.

0508 669 675

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

11 Blue Spur Road, Hokitika P. 03 755 5499 E. info@stationsinnhokitika.co.nz www.stationsinnhokitika.co.nz 95

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While it’s true that the length of the West Coast can be driven in just over seven hours of continuous travel, the question has to be asked why anyone would want to? In these parts, most people prefer life in the slow lane and travellers are strongly advised to follow the old adage, when in Rome …

With so much on offer, the task of seeing, feeling, smelling and sampling the superb untamed natural wilderness offered by the West Coast of the Southern Alps is best assigned to a series of bite-size chunks, rather than all or nothing.

A great starting place for such an introductory excursion is in in the heartland. Greymouth, Hokitika and Moana, the latter poised on the edge of Lake Brunner, can be easily combined in a shortbreak, with a host of great facilities and unique features.

Greymouth is the biggest town on the West Coast while Hokitika has the third ranking in population terms. The scheduled air services or the TranzAlpine make getting there effortless.

The heart of the West Coast leaves travellers spoilt for choice. The small township of Blackball is as good a place to start as any. It’s a township that has any number of claims to fame. One is that it is the birthplace of the New Zealand Labour Party. And it was here that in 1908 the right to a 30-minute lunch break for all workers was won. That it took the miners of Blackball three months on strike to achieve this says a lot about the resolve of all those who participated in this important, but bitter campaign.

Resolve of another kind is perpetuated in this historic mining settlement. Hence the local watering hole is now known as ‘Formerly the Blackball Hilton’, testament to the determination of its owners not to let an international hotel chain get its own way entirely. Lunch in this establishment offers a journey into local history and the harsh conditions encountered by pioneers who strived to extract coal and gold from the surrounding hills.

For those who prefer a ploughman’s lunch, the Blackball Salami Company offers up a range of products guaranteed to get anyone salivating.

Standing at the mouth of an impressive waterway, Greymouth was a place of habitation by early Maori who travelled through the twisting alpine passes that link the East Coast of the South Island with its rugged western counterpart. The region’s capital has a rich history of coal and gold mining but today, fishing and forestry provide salvation, as does eco-tourism.

A multitude of visitor experiences can be accessed in and around Greymouth and it’s a great place to join the West Coast Wilderness Trail - a chance to get out of one seat and onto another.

This cycle trail offers an experience like no other, providing stunning coastal vistas, virgin rainforest, diverse nature and untamed natural wilderness. And it’s do-able by anyone who can turn a pedal. Graded a lowly two - that’s the bottom of the

H E R I TAG E PA R K  WEST COAST  NEW ZEALAND

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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difficulty scale not the top - this trail is ideal for people of all ages and abilities, with the trail surface being as smooth as it gets in cycling terms.

Inland, just half an hour’s drive away from Greymouth, is another hidden gem. Lake Brunner is like an oasis of rich deep blue surrounded by the green hues that depict the existence of an ancient rainforest.

Lake Brunner is the largest lake on the West Coast and a mecca for fishing and all manner of water sports. As the locals observe it, the huge trout often get to die of old age, but there are guides attuned to their habits and well versed with bringing them on board.

Moana is worth a few days of rest and relaxation, with the ability to jump aboard, or off, the TranzAlpine as it stops daily in this settlement. To experience the history of Lake Brunner and its pioneering past, walking the Bain Bay Track to the historic logging camp or visiting the Rail Precinct is well worth the effort.

Just over an hour away by car the Coolest Little Town in the world sits on the banks of another wild river. Hokitika also has a long history and is home to many talented arts and crafts exponents, with pounamu among the materials being worked to create stunning pieces. On the Arahura Greenstone Tour, travellers get to not only pick up the hard rock which comes in so many stunning shades and colours, but to work their magic as they create their own treasured works, taonga to the Maori of these parts.

Adventure activities abound at Hokitika, with the steep fall of rivers from the slopes of the Southern Alps to the braided flows near the coastline providing a playground for skilled water sports exponents and novices alike. Upstream lies the Hokitika gorge, its tranquil aqua waters almost too much for the human mind to comprehend.

And let’s not overlook the proud tradition of brewing ale, and consuming it. In Greymouth the Monteith’s Brewing Company maintains its links with a history which kicked off in 1868. At that establishment travellers can learn of the origins and taste profiles of a host of carefully crafted ales - and the chance to sample them too.

The Speights Ale House, also in Greymouth, boasts a proud claim too. Its servings really are generous to a fault - in size and in flavour - and consuming them with one of the ales designated as the Pride of the South takes a lot of beating.

So there it is - bucket loads of incentive to break the mould, throw off the shackles of the every-day grind and head out West. A short break is good, but if time permits, a week or more to discover the hidden secrets of this compact area within the wider West Coast region is even better. www.westcoast.co.nz

ION MENT T TIME Y AD A THIS KING AN O O OF BO E ROOM T T E PRIVA E A FRE V L I E A C RE ENT N I T CON AKFAST BRE Immerse yourself in the spectacular view of mountains and bush scenery of New Zealand’s west coast. Rainforest Retreat offers a unique getaway with options suited to various budgets and needs of the world weary traveller.

Centrally located in the heart of Franz Josef Glacier township on the west coast of NZ’s South Island.

Nestled in six acres of native bush and surrounded by lush punga groves, Rainforest Retreat offers a wide range of accommodation – all built to embrace the natural environment.

Whatever the season, explore New Zealand’s glaciers while staying at Rainforest Retreat. It’s not just accommodation … it’s an experience!

46 Cron Street, Franz Josef, West Coast /

Freecall 0800 873 346 /

Phone: +64 3 752 0220 /

www.rainforestretreat.co.nz

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

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imagine yourself here... and your cares a million miles away private pools massage & beauty treatments main pools

Cron Street Franz Josef Glacier glacierhotpools.co.nz 0800 044 044

EXPLORE THE UNTAMED NATURAL WILDERNESS OF THE WEST COAST

Travelling to New Zealand’s Untamed Natural Wilderness of the West Coast is a scenic wonderland, abundant in native flora and wildlife. From the beaches that line the Coast to the forests that run deep into the valleys, the West Coast has a lot to offer visitors to the region.

Getting to the West Coast is an experience in itself as you step onboard one of the top six train journeys in the world, TranzAlpine, departing from Christchurch daily and arriving into the Heart of the West Coast, Greymouth.

Greymouth, being the largest town and the commercial hub of the region is situated on the mouth of the Grey River.

The town is also famous for the wellknown “barber”, a natural formation of a thick fog that descends down the valley, rolling over the hills and down the river each morning, a popular photo opportunity for locals and visitors.

The Grey District is a great place for activities from those more adventurous like caving and rafting to the 4WD quad bikes and huggland tours. Explore the West Coast with tours to key tourists “hot spots” one such destination is Punakaiki, the internationally recognized “Pancake Rocks” and Blow Holes.

Stay over at Hotel Lake Brunner, offering apartments and motel units with views of Lake Brunner surrounded in native

rainforest. Take a lake cruise or try out trout fishing with Brent Beadle’s Moana Trout Fishing Safaris. Venture out on one of the many walking tracks, listening to the native bird song, a bird lover’s paradise! www.golakebrunner.co.nz Another tourist “hot spot” is Hokitika Gorge, a natural formation of vibrant blue water and a short walk. Visit historic sites such as Brunner Mine Site and Woods Creek Track where you can learn more about the mining days and the tragedies of our ancestors and the harsh realities of living in those days.

Ride a section of the Wilderness Trail, a four-day ride from Greymouth to Ross, offering a vast array of scenery and historic sites.

Enjoy a swim at the local Aquatic Centre, let the kids check out the hydro slides while you relax in the spa and sauna! Visit the local Left Bank Art Gallery where local artists are displayed and pop into Shades of Jade for locally carved Greenstone jewellery. Stewart Nimmo Gallery is another popular gallery with beautiful photography artwork and local crafts and the Station Gift Shop is a perfect place to find that souvenir to take back home.

steam train rides, gold panning, plus over 30 buildings full of relics and memorabilia of days gone by. End your day with a brew from the local Brewery Monteith’s, take a brewery tour and learn more about the brewing process then enjoy a selection of hand crafted beer and local produce from their kitchen.

There is a good range of eateries and accommodation to choose from.

The local i-SITE team can help with accommodation, travel and activity bookings, including having local specials available!

Base yourself in the Heart of the West Coast while exploring the Untamed Natural Wilderness that the West Coast region offers as a destination. The West Coast people have many years of hosting international travellers, building a reputation as friendly and welcoming with a passion for sharing their environment.

For more information visit our website www.westcoasttravel.co.nz or contact info@westcoasttravel.co.nz contact us directly on 0800 GREYMOUTH

Step back in time and explore the pioneering days with the historic gold mining town at Shantytown, a replica mining town set in the 1860’s offering o u r n e w z e a l a n d.c o. n z

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WA N A K A

Feel the Freedom in Wanaka

BY JO MAY

Located in the stunning alps of the South Island in New Zealand, visitors from around the world are drawn to the Wanaka region by its outstanding natural beauty. Wanaka’s lakes and mountains and proximity to Mt Aspiring National Park, makes it the ultimate base for outdoor activities.

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photo: Geoff Marks

WA N A K A

But it’s not just the outdoor enthusiasts who have plenty to do, stroll the streets and be inspired by galleries, stylish shops and be spoilt for choice with a great selection of cool cafes and restaurants.

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 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.

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

www.wanakaheightsmotel.co.nz

For visitors 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.

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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. www.lakewanaka.co.nz

L U F I T U A BE ANGER STR OA

URSELF T STRAP YO

SPECTACULAR LAKE AND MOUNTAIN VIEWS ONLY 1 MINUTE WALK TO LAKE AND TOWN CENTRE GUEST KITCHEN, LAUNDRY & FREE WIFI ONSITE CAFE, BAR AND RESTAURANTS

10% OFF! 71 Ardmore Street, Wanaka

P: 0800 473 288

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Book online and use promo code ONBOARD to recieve a 10% discount.

(Cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer)

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

Q U E E N S TOW N

stunning Queenstown

BY JO MAY

Bursting with fresh spring blooms, 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. Spring is a great time to visit Queenstown with excellent snow conditions in the region’s ski areas, longer, warmer days, world class activities and a vibrant nightlife.

Have fun with spring skiing

Spring is one of the best times of year to hit the slopes when longer warmer days mean you can head up the mountain a bit later, and spend the afternoon skiing until last chair. The spring snow conditions mean the atmosphere on the mountains is fun and playful, everyone is having a good time in the sun as they look back on the ski season that was.

When the day is done but the sun is still shining, chill out at many of the ski-field’s outdoor bars in the afternoon, you deserved it!

Tackle your adventure bucket list

Queenstown has a culture of innovation and it’s widely regarded as the birth place of global adventure tourism. Spring is the season to combine some on-mountain fun with a touch of adventure, as the longer days allow you to explore further. If you feel like ticking a few things off your bucket list in adrenalin filled style you can book activities such as bungy jumping, jet boating, skydiving, white water rafting, paragliding or dirt biking.

Hit the Green

Queenstown is home to seven great golf courses where you can find yourself playing amidst rolling green fields, waving tussocks and rocky outcrops with jagged mountains surrounding you, or on plush resort greens where modern luxuries are a short golf-cart drive away.

Mingle with seasoned locals at club courses or hit some practice drives while planes soar overhead. In spring you could find yourself completing the 18th hole in time to head up for few runs at one of Queenstown’s ski areas, or find more adrenalin filled activities to pack more into a day.

Check out the new life on a farm tour

Take a cruise on Lake Wakatipu and visit the working farms at Walter Peak and Mt Nicholas stations, both with farm tours available during the day. You’ll be able to see new born lambs and calves on the farm, and enjoy a cruise on the lake in the same day.

TM

BRING THE WHOLE FAMILY Enquire today about our latest Family offer.

BOOK NOW P: 0800 SHOTOVER E: reservations@shotoverjet.co.nz

SHOTOVERJET.COM

A short drive to Glenorchy will also delight, with new born lambs in road side paddocks, especially on the way to Paradise. o u r n e w z e a l a n d.c o. n z

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See Queenstown from the air

Fixed wing or Heli, a scenic flight over the Wakatipu basin will show you the distinctive shape of Lake Wakatipu the third largest lake in New Zealand, and if it’s a clear day you’ll be able to see across to Mt Cook, New Zealand’s highest mountain. Helicopter companies offer landings at the Remarkables, Cecil ledge, and secluded mountain ranges and glaciers and if you’re planning on flying to Milford Sound, most fixed wing operators have a fly cruise fly product, linking up with a Milford sound cruise at various times of the day.

Hint: Book your scenic flight early on in your trip, if the weather doesn’t play ball, you have a few days up your sleeve to reschedule. The helicopter companies know that weather is out of everyone’s control and you won’t pay again to rebook.

Taste some fresh green produce

Connect with real New Zealand An awe inspiring journey into the Te Wai Pounamu World Heritage Area.

BOOK NOW! 0800 327 853 www.dartriver.co.nz

Locally sourced produce becomes more readily available at Queenstown’s many restaurants and eateries in spring, with fruit, vegetables and herbs grown in local gardens and food caught on our doorstep making its way into tasty dishes around the region.

Some restaurants have their own ‘Chefs’ garden close by or on site, you can’t really get any fresher than that.

Cycle the Vines

Spend an afternoon cycling amongst the vines, sampling Pinot Noir, and nibbling a gourmet platter of local produce al fresco, surrounded by spring blooms. With easy pick up from central accommodation providers, and return transport from Gibbston, you’ll love the well maintained cycle track through the region, and the cellar doors dotted along the ride.

Get Jazzy

The Queenstown Jazzfest returns in 2017 over Labour Weekend, bringing renowned jazz artists from around New Zealand, and luring some international talent for a lazy long weekend of music combined with art, dance, film, theatre and of course, tasty local wine and food. There will be something for all ages with venues including cosy bars tucked away up an alleyway, or in larger venues with room to move.

Get artsy at the Arrowtown Spring Arts Festival

The Arrowtown Spring Arts Festival is a celebration of art in the Wakatipu region. The festival kicks off on mid-September and is usually four days long, filled with workshops, speakers and community events. It’s lots of fun for the whole family, and Arrowtown comes alive with the new signs of spring as gardens bloom with daffodils, tulips and other spring flowers.

Gone Fishin’

Warmer afternoons kick start the appetite of Queenstown’s fish population after winter in preparation for the spring and summer feast. Lake Wakatipu is open all year round 106

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and offers great “trolling” and “jigging” during the day, while casting a fly across one of the many river mouths that line the lake can be very rewarding in the evening.

Lakes Hayes and on to finish close to the heart of Queenstown, the marathon is a tough one not just because of its length, but because of the distracting views!

A Spring in your Step

Take it on in a half marathon, 10km fun run or even the new halfmarathon option that travels along the scenic first section of the track, and finish off sitting back for some al fresco celebratory dining.

In November the Air New Zealand Queenstown International Marathon brings runners from around New Zealand, and the world, to tackle what is one of the most beautiful trails on earth Starting at the leafy Millbrook Resort and winding its way through Arrowtown, along the banks of

For more information on how to fill your days in Queenstown this spring, check out our website at www.QueenstownNZ.nz

Queenstown’s most memorable dining experience A pioneering landmark from the 1860s, Gantleys is a charming stone building set on two acres of landscaped gardens with stunning mountain scenery.

Gantleys offers contemporary New Zealand cuisine using fresh, regional produce and has New Zealand’s most Awarded Wine list. Gantleys is certainly worth a visit. Just 10 minutes from Queenstown.

Complimentary transport from central Queenstown by arrangement.

“ Dining at Gantleys was one of the highlights of my trip to Queenstown. Along with the wonderful service, stunning gardens and the gorgeous wines (and there were certainly plenty to choose from), the food was second to none. Piping hot, cooked to perfection and cutting through my steak, it may as well have been butter. If you’re heading to the region, I encourage you to pop into this little gem of Queenstown – you won’t be disappointed and you’ll most likely find it’ll be your highlight too.”

Bettina Maniatis, Editor, Onboard Magazine

172 Arthurs Point Road, Arthurs Point, Queenstown

|

03 442 8999

|

www.gantleys.co.nz

AU C K L A N D

YOUR ONBOARD MAPS KAITAKI DECK 2 1)

2)

Play area – A play area for kids aged 3-10. Light snacks are available to purchase and parents can enjoy an espresso coffee while supervising their children.

Movie theatres – Relax and enjoy a movie in one of our two movie theatres on Deck 2. Tickets can be purchased from Reception or the shop.

DECK 7

DECK 7

Shop: An on-board shop to purchase magazines, confectionery and souvenirs. Buy your movie and Interislander Plus tickets here. Eftpos facilities are available.

4) Family lounge: A great place for children and parents to relax with a TV on-site.

5) Hector’s Café – A place to relax in a contemporary café style setting.

There is cabinet food and a full range of beverages available.

6) Interislander Plus lounge – An exclusive lounge for 18+. This lounge offers complimentary drinks (beer, wine, tea and coffee), a meal, and newspapers and magazines. Tickets can be purchased from the Reception.

7) Nurseries – Available for families traveling with infants. There are four cabins with cots and a separate toilet provided. A baby changing facility is located in the foyer on Deck 7.

8) Recliner seating – A great place for you to sit back and relax.

9) Cabins – Passenger cabins with an en-suite are available to hire. Please enquire at the shop or Reception.

10) Reception - A place to purchase movie tickets, book cabins or for all general enquiries.

3)

8 10

7

4

9

5

3

8

6 8

DECK 8

DECK 8

Ocean View Eatery – Café style seating with a selection of light snacks and hot meals. Beverages include filter coffee, tea, juice, soft drinks, beer and wine.

12) Local Heroes Café & Bar – A relaxed atmosphere, serving espresso coffee, local wines, beers and spirits. Selections of bar snacks are available at peak times. The bar features wide screen TV’s and there are often local bands performing.

13) Lookout Atrium – The ‘lookout’ offers café style seating with great views.

14) Rembrandt’s lounge – Rembrandt’s lounge offers space for group bookings. If you are a large group this is to be requested in advance.

15) No.1 Truck Stop – A lounge reserved for truck drivers. ID’s are required for this area.

11)

=

=

14 12

13

15 11

DECK 10 16) Main outside viewing deck. Smoking is permitted on Deck 7 portside (or the left-hand side of the vessel).

KAIARAHI DECK 7

DECK 7 Embarking & Disembarking Wellington

1)

2) Embarking & Disembarking Picton

2

1

3)

3

DECK 8

DECK 8

4)

5) 6) 4

5 7

6 7) 8)

8

108

Ocean View Eatery – Café style seating with a selection of light snacks and hot meals. Beverages include filter coffee, tea, juice, soft drinks, beer and wine.

Shop – An onboard shop to purchase magazines, confectionery and souvenirs. Eftpos facilities are available.

Local Heroes Bar/Café - A relaxed atmosphere, serving espresso coffee, local wines, beers and spirits. Selections of bar snacks are available at peak times. The bar features wide screen TV’s.

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

Interislander Plus lounge - An exclusive lounge for 18+. This lounge offers complimentary drinks (beer, wine, tea and coffee), a meal, and newspapers and magazines. Tickets can be purchased from the Shop.

Nurseries – Available for families traveling with infants. Cots and changing facilities provided.

The Lookout Lounge –Enjoy the scenery in the lookout lounge. This area offers recliner seating with great views to relax and enjoy the scenery. Kids play areas and nurseries are also close by for families looking to unwind throughout the journey.

Play area – A great area for kids aged 3-10 to play.

No.1 Truck Stop – A lounge reserved for truck drivers. ID’s are required for this area.

AU C K L A N D

ARATERE DECK 4 1)

2)

3)

4)

5) 6) 7)

Bar – Situated at the bow of the ship this lounge offers great views and a social atmosphere. Includes a bar to satisfy your thirst with local wines and beers and spirits.

A selection of bar snacks is available.

Food Court – A great place to enjoy a selection of snacks, sandwiches, hot and cold meals and a variety of beverages.

Movie Theatre – Relax and enjoy a movie in our movie theatre. Tickets can be purchased from Hector’s Store and Cafe.

Hector's Store & Cafe - Order coffee from our baristas then browse a great range of magazines, confectionery and souvenirs. Hector’s serves quality, café-style cabinet food and a range of beverages.

Play Area – Moby’s play area provides TV cartoons for children, a nursery and family seating.

Passenger lounge – A large space to find a seat and relax throughout the journey

Driver’s Driver’s Mess Room Accommodation

DECK 4

Access to Vehicle Deck MES

7 5

6

4

3

2

1

9

MES

Passenger Entry/Exit

*

Muster Stations

Nurseries – Available for families traveling with infants.

There are four cabins with cots and a separate toilet provided.

DECK 5

DECK 5

Interislander Plus lounge - An exclusive lounge for 18+. This lounge offers complimentary drinks (beer, wine, tea and coffee), a meal, and newspapers and magazines. Tickets can be purchased from Hector's Store & Cafe.

9) Observation decks – A great place to enjoy the magnificent views of Wellington Harbour, Cook Strait and The Marlborough Sounds. Seating is also provided on the deck.

10) Pencarrow Lounge – Relax in the comfort of this lounge.

8)

9

9

7

10

Driver’s Driver’s Mess Room Accommodation

9

Access to Vehicle Deck MES

MES

TRAIN CARRIAGE

Passenger Entry/Exit

Our fleet of AK carriages were designed and constructed in New Zealand. They were purpose-built to maximise the views on offer and provide a comfortable and relaxing environment.

Main carriages • 39 seats configured around shared tables • 24 forward facing seats with fold-down trays • Above seat coat rack with integrated reading lights • Large panoramic side and sky-view roof windows • Toilet

*

Muster Stations

Accessibility • 2 dedicated wheelchair spaces in dining area of café carriage • Accessible toilet with baby change table in café carriage • Inter-carriage vestibules with automatic sliding doors • Hearing Loop throughout seating carriages and dining area Dining and viewing carriages • Licensed café carriage with a wide range of food and drinks • Dining area in café carriage • Outdoor viewing carriage

Entertainment • GPS-activated commentary system at every seat (English or Mandarin) • GPS-activated route map on central overhead screens

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

109

AU LAND AUCCKKLAND

motive power How many, how big, how fast, how heavy?

Interislander has a fleet of 3 ships – Kaitaki, Aratere and Kaiarahi

KAITAKI

ARATERE

KAIARAHI

KAITAKI

MEANING - CHALLENGER BUILT

Holland,1995

FLAG

British

PASSENGER CAPACITY

1400

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

110

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

AUAUC C K KLLAND AND

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

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

111

ONBOARD SOUVENIRS Onboard Souvenirs ONBOARD SOUVENIRS

AU C K L A N D

Make the memories We offer offer aarange rangeofofspecial special souvenirs Make the memoriesofofyour yourtrip triplast lastlonger. longer. We souvenirs to to remind you ofofyour our ships ship and/or years to tocome. come. remind you yourexperience experienceaboard aboard our and/or trains trains for for years Items listed areare inin NZD incl GST and Items listed NZD incl GST andonly are available subject toonboard. availability at shops on Interislander and cafes on all scenic trains.

Scenic trains Floating pen

$9.00

Magnets and badges

$9.00

Model train

TranzAlpine and Northern Explorer keyring

$25.00

$10.00

8GB USB with images and video loaded

$15.00

Kids’ activity pack

(Suitable for ages 3-14 years)

Postcards

One size fits all caps

$10.00

$1.50

$30.00

100% recyclable cups (Available TranzAlpine / Christchurch Station only)

$12.90 112

$12.90

Tote bag

$35.00 o u r n e w z e a l a n d.c o. n z

Playing cards

$5.00

Passport Stamp t-shirt

(Men’s and women’s styles available)

$35.00

Interislander ferries $7.50

Ship keyring

$7.50

$4.00 Pin $4.00

Blue self-wind flashlight

$10.00

Model ship (Aratere, Kaiarahi and Kaitaki available)

$25.00

Large memo clip

(with magnet on reverse)

$5.70

$7.90 $7.90

Water cube

Notebook and pen

$5.00

$6.50

Floating pen

Badges

$9.00

$9.00

8GB USB card

Playing cards

Water cube

Silver teaspoon

$15.00

$7.50

Badge

Patch

$7.00

Magnetic jigsaw puzzle

$7.70 $7.70

Postcards

$1.50

Interislander cap Ship cap

$30.00

Tote bag

$35.00 $35.00

$9.00

Ship t-shirt

$35.00 o u r n e w z e a l a n d.c o. n z

$25.00

Passport Stamp t-shirt (Men’s and women’s styles available)

$35.00

113

AU C K L A N D

ENJOY SOME DOWNTIME

Across

Down

7 To twist suddenly (6) 8 A price demanded (6) 9 In this place (4) 10 To give up (8) 11 Mother or father's father (7) 13 Compound from acid and alcohol (5) 15 Cartoon character; ...Duck (5) 16 A person who assists in ship navigation (7) 18 Charging illegal rates of interest for the use of money (8) 19 Nil (4) 21 Ornamental band worn on the arm (6) 22 To get the job done (6)

1 No charge (4) 2 Finally (4,3,3,3) 3 Any act or program that relieves tension (7) 4 To twist forcibly (5) 5 Certain (13) 6 Building material (8) 12 To state with assurance (8) 14 To make incorrect (7) 17 Usefulness or importance (5) 20 Bird's home (4)

solution

114

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

SuDOKU

CONNECT

Relax in between the games

The Great Journeys of New Zealand brings together KiwiRail’s four iconic passenger journeys – Northern Explorer, Interislander, Coastal Pacific and TranzAlpine. Each of our journeys has a distinctive flavour, but all embody the same unique and authentic Kiwi character. They are globally-recognised and can be enjoyed separately or together to create a quintessential New Zealand experience.

Save on future travel Book now on any one of our train or ferry services using the promo code NZBLOOM17 and receive 10% off your next booking.

Terms and Conditions apply.

Book now at greatjourneysofnz.co.nz

Relax, join our Club and save For over 30 years and in over 45 spectacular locations throughout New Zealand, we have been carefully creating environments to provide you, with your very own unique, quality holiday experience.

We offer a range of accommodation options including everything from motels and self-contained units through to cabins, tent and powered sites.

All our Parks offer you plenty of space, children’s play facilities, BBQ areas plus indoor and outdoor recreational areas.

10% SAVINGS

No holiday memories are complete without experiencing one of our great Parks.

Plus enjoy many other great benefits and savings throughout New Zealand.

on all Interislander Ferry Travel, on-board services and TOP 10 Accommodation when you join our Club.

Join at a TOP 10 Holiday Park reception, or online

MOTELS

UNITS

CABINS

POWERED SITES

TENT SITES