Weekend & Short Breaks - Issue 14

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16 24 40

Around & About

4

My Perfect Weekend

6

Summer at Large

16

Coastal Classics

TV’s Free Range Chef and author Annabel Langbein Festival lineup – music, wine, food, arts and more What’s your idea of the perfect summer beach? Our writers share their special places

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Eating Out

34

Sculpture on the Gulf

52

Whale of a Day

Drink, eat, chill – Graham Reid scopes out good bars with tasty food

48

The Hauraki Gulf is a playground for creatures great and small

Ti Point Retreat, near Leigh

24

Just a Perfect Day

44

Golden Moments

Patrick Smith falls for the distinctly French charms of Akaroa

Steamy Weekend Whakatane in the jumping-off point for trips to sulphurous, sensational White Island

Passport Required

30

Privileged Passage

48

Table Manners

Susan Buckland cruises Vanuatu’s untouched outer islands The Atherton Tablelands are a zesty side-dish on the Cairns-Port Douglas holiday menu

Bits & Pieces

58

Been There, Loved That

60

The Bunker

80

Weekend Fridge List

63

Leisure Lounge

Jane Binsley heads north to Tutukaka and the Poor Knights

A few of our favourite things Weekend Reading, Listening and Viewing At-a-loose-end checklist of attractions Lodgings, attractions, destinations and packages ISSUE 8 SEPTEMBER

QUARTER 2008

Karen Goa strikes treasure in the Coromandel goldmining town of Waihi

EXPORT OPPORTUNITIES

THE GUIDE TO NEW ZEALAN D

Destinations Activitie

s

Ltd

Weekend Magazine www.weekendmagazine.co.nz Editor: Patrick Smith, email: patrick@weekendmagazine.co.nz. Design: Samantha Holmes, Brandish, 416 Anglesea St, Hamilton. www.brandish.co.nz Advertising: Travis Field, mob: 021 474 447, email: travis@weekendmagazine.co.nz, PO Box 7070, Wellesley Street, Auckland, New Zealand tel: 09 366 6879, fax: 09 366 6838. Image Co-ordination: Becky McEwan. Publisher: People Publishing Ltd, Ground Floor, 26 Albert Street, PO Box 7070, Wellesley Street, Auckland, New Zealand, tel: 09 366 6879, fax: 09 366 6838, email: publisher@weekendmagazine.co.nz, www.peoplepublishing.co.nz Printed by: PMP (NZ) Limited. www.pmplimited.co.nz Copyright: People Media Group. Audit period July – December 2007: 49,042 – per issue.

ISSUE 25

Information Maps

Happy Daze Insider guide to Tauranga and Mt Maunganui

ON EVERY PAGE

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Main beach – Mt Maunganui Photo: Bay of Plenty Tourism

Point Taken

Drive Time

54

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Belle Ville

ISSUE 25 SPRING 2008

Cover Image

10

Take a wonderful walk of art on Waiheke Island

Just For Two

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Heart Racing

Chill Out Chi

Rate Ra te e thi h s: s

Rate Ra te thiis:

Food & Wine Fo

Out & About O Ou

Rattte tthi Ra his: s:

Ra ate tthi his: s:

Vote ffor your ffavourite things hings to do in this gor gorgeous country of ours and see how they stack up against the rest. Vote for your favourite Must-Do’s across NZ and be in to win $2000 towards your own Ultimate 101 Adventure. Let your voice be heard, get online and start voting for the new 101 Must-Do’s for Kiwis.

www.aatravel.co.nz/101/

MAIN IMAGE: Hollyford Track ck Pyke Py Rive er Sw wing gbrid bridge ridge © Th The T he Ho ollyfo yfo fo ord d Trac rack acckk IMAGES: Fly-fishing, Southland and river vers © V Ven Vent e ture r Sout Southlan outhlan and. a d. Vineyard © Destination Marlborou boro gh. h. Tarawerra a Fal a lss © De al Destin tina in tion tio i Rot otoru ot orua o rua ua a

is back and better than ever


welcome It’s amazing what’s out there in dear old Aotearoa – amazing sights and some

volcanic landscape that is White Island. With summer threatening to

amazing people with amazing imaginations.

arrive we’ve scoped out Tauranga and

This line of thought was inspired by a

Mt Maunganui, Waihi and, for the

recent visit to Akaroa (see page 10) where

romantically inclined, a beautiful country

I visited the Giant’s House. Here artist

retreat near Leigh. We’ve also canvassed

Josie Martin has created a garden peopled

our writers for their favourite beaches and

by fantastical mosaic-clad figures such as

we have a whole swag of upcoming festival

The Magician, on whose lap I’m sitting

dates around the country to inspire you.

in the photo at right. The Giant’s House is one of many

Elsewhere, Susan Buckland has been sailing around Vanuatu’s outer

surprises you’ll find in this Frenchified little

islands and watching young men with

town on Banks Peninsula, 90 minutes’

vines attached to their ankles leap from a

drive from Christchurch.

high, rickety tower, while Wendy Dunlop

In the 3½ years we’ve been publishing this magazine we’ve come across many surprising and delightful

had to sing for her supper in Queensland’s Atherton Tablelands. For some Kiwis, 2010 has been

places and people, exciting activities and

a year of heartbreak and tragedy and

attractions, great food and wine and not a

our thoughts are with them as we head

few unique hideaways.

towards a new decade. To you, dear reader,

This issue is no exception. While I was meeting giants in Akaroa, Jane Binsley

we wish a peaceful holiday season and many happy surprises.

was up at Tutukaka communing with the marine life around the Poor Knights Islands

Patrick Smith, editor.

and Anya Kussler was treading the strange

Email: patrick@weekendmagazine.co.nz

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Photo: Tessa Chrisp THE BEST WEEKENDS & SHORT BREAKS [PAGE 4]

Annabel Langbein, TV One’s The Free Range Cook and best-selling author.


I LOVE GETTING OUT OF TOWN FOR A SPECIAL WEEKEND AT A NICE HOUSE IN THE COUNTRY WITH [HUSBAND] TED AND TWO OR THREE OTHER COUPLES. IT FEELS LIKE SUCH A LUXURY TO HAVE TIME WITH FRIENDS THAT GOES BEYOND A LUNCH OR DINNER.

I love the provenance of relationships

will bring food, too, so we get to have this

seafood will turn itself into a fresh and

that go back years – old friends you may

massive foodathon.

simple three- or four-course meal.

We have something simple to eat

together it’s as if you’ve never been apart.

that people can help themselves to when

Sunday

The old rhythms come back and you just

they arrive – maybe bread and soup or a big

A lazy start to the day, with a good book

understand each other.

platter. People might be tired and it’s nice to

and a cup of tea in bed. Then after breakfast

keep it low-key.

an expedition with a picnic – a big walk

My perfect weekend will be somewhere near the water, as that always feels so relaxing, and with any luck there are natural hot pools nearby, like the ones

in the forest with a lovely view, like the

“Being an optimist I have

at Lake Rotoiti.

my togs and my snorkel,

Friday

wetsuit and fly rod.”

We skive off early on Friday afternoon so

Rob Roy glacier walk. Then back to the house to lentil soup, salad and a platter of cheese – comfort food, the way Sunday tea should be. And maybe not such a late night as there’s that nice kind of tiredness after a day outside.

we can get some dinner going for when

Saturday

everyone else arrives. Being an optimist I

There’s no agenda. You can do what you

Monday

have my togs and my snorkel, wetsuit and

like and get up when you like, but usually

Monday morning rolls around and the

fly rod. And being practical and having

the smell of coffee brewing and bacon

others head off. I have a list of op shops

been away on holiday in New Zealand

cooking gets people out of bed. Whoever is

to rummage around in for old china and

many times, I know to take a woolly

hungriest gets up first and makes brekkie.

kitchen stuff, or even a fabulous vintage

jumper, coat and brolly, even if it’s summer. And nice clothes to put on for dinner.

Then for me and whoever else wants

fur coat. Then a lazy afternoon reading a

to come it’s a trip to the farmers’ market to

book before a romantic dinner for Ted and

get goodies for Saturday dinner. The people

I, either out at a nice restaurant or at the

gorgeous view, supremely comfortable beds,

who might not want to do that can meet us

holiday house. Something elegant, simple

a huge bath, the most amazingly equipped

afterwards for a really good coffee.

and luxurious, with a very special wine.

The house is light and airy, with a

kitchen, a good library and a log fire. There is no internet connection!

Then it’s lunchtime, with a big platter

At this point I feel like the luckiest

of fixings from the market, plus salmon or

person in the world and like I’ve been on

Food is always a big part of our

proscuitto and cheese and bread. After a

holiday for a month – totally revived. I

weekend so I take my chillybin of fixings.

wee siesta, just by chance it’s low tide and

have spent wonderful fun time with people

Whatever we buy in the way of fresh

dead calm, so the hunters and gatherers

I love, had fabulous adventures hunting and

produce, fish and meat, I have a flavour kit

amongst us head out for crayfish and paua

gathering, indulged myself in books and

to whip up something yummy – lemons,

or wet fish.

junk stores, eaten good food, drunk yummy

limes, fish sauce, ginger, good olive oil,

Dinner is late-ish, with cocktails

wines and had some romantic time with the

parmesan. I bake a cake and make a

and nibbles beforehand. (Always pack

man I love. And I’m ready to plan the next

sweet slice to take along. Everyone else

the blender for cocktails!) All that lovely

perfect weekend.

THE BEST WEEKENDS & SHORT BREAKS [PAGE 5]

not see for ages but as soon as you’re


Devonport Food, Wine & Music Festival

Pasifika

Auckland

It’s summer and whether you’re into music, culture, arts, wine, food or laughs, it’s time to have fun. Here’s a sample of some upcoming festivals and celebrations:

Devonport Food, Wine & Music Festival

Auckland Arts Festival 2011

Windsor Reserve, Feb 19-20

Various venues, March 2-20

Now in its 22nd year. A great selection of

The biennial festival celebrates its fifth

food and wine to enjoy, accompanied by an

birthday in 2011 as the first major

interesting lineup of musical entertainment.

arts and culture event of the Auckland

Wine-tasting, wine appreciation seminars

Supercity with theatre, dance, music and

and cooking demonstrations, etc.

visual arts from some of the world’s most

www.devonportwinefestival.co.nz

exciting artists and companies. Confirmed highlights include a musical spectacular from Rajasthan; Vietnamese water

Auckland Fringe Festival 2011

puppetry; theatre from Bolivia’s Teatro

Auckland region, Feb 25-March 13

de los Andes, and baroque music from the Berlin-based Lautten Compagney.

More than 40,000 people attended the

The Famous Spiegeltent will be situated

75 theatre, dance, music and visual arts

in The Festival Garden, a reinvented

events at the inaugural Fringe in 2009,

Festival hub designed to make the most

which was huge success. The 2011 festival

of the new-look Aotea Square precinct.

looks like being even better.

www.aucklandfestival.co.nz

www.aucklandfringe.org.nz

THE BEST WEEKENDS & SHORT BREAKS [PAGE 6]

Pasifika Mission Bay Jazz & Blues Streetfest

Western Springs Park, March 11-12

Tamaki Drive, Feb 26 A colourful celebration of the art, culture Tamaki Drive is closed to traffic during

and lifestyle of Auckland’s Pacific Islands

this annual street festival when thousands

communities. Opening night concert

crowd the seaside strip for a day of music,

(7.30pm-9.30pm) on the Friday,

dining, dancing and festivity.

festival day (10am-5pm) on Saturday.

www.jazzandbluesstreetfest.com

www.aucklandcity.govt.nz/whatson/ events/pasifika/about.asp


Womad

Taranaki Auckland Seafood Festival

WOMAD NZ 2011

Te Wero Wharf, Viaduct Harbour,

Brooklands Park & TSB Bowl,

Jan 29-31

New Plymouth, March 18-20

Delicious seafood and top entertainment

Annual three-day celebration of music,

at a new waterside venue make the

arts and dance with more than 300

Seafood Festival the place to be on

performers from 20 countries. Last year’s

Anniversary Weekend (noon-7pm daily).

event was brilliant and 2011’s lineup

Tickets: $15. The 2010 event raised

looks just as good. Headline acts include

$103,000 for selected charities.

Afro Celt Sound System, Mali’s Amadou

www.aucklandseafoodfestival.co.nz

& Mariam, Cuba’s Creole Choir and, from the UK, DJ Don Letts, Luka Bloom and Nitin Sawhney. A great weekend in the

Jambalaya

sublime setting of Pukekura Park.

Corbans Estate Arts Centre, Henderson,

www.womad.co.nz

March 5-6

www.ticketek.co.nz

Music and dance festival with international and national acts, top international

Hawke’s Bay

dancers, workshops, music, circus

Hawke’s Bay Wine & Food Festival

performers and market stalls in a setting

Roy’s Hill, Gimblett Gravels,

that includes native-bush glades, workshop

Hastings, Jan 29

warehouses, an underground wine cellar and an historic Mexican church.

Wineries, winery restaurants, boutique

Camping onsite.

food producers, workshops and

www.jambalaya.co.nz

entertainment in one venue with panoramic vineyard views. www.hawkesbaywineandfoodfestival.co.nz


Marlborough Wine Festival

Buskers Festival

Wellington Summer City 2011 Various locations, Dec 31-March 27

Nelson

Family and children’s events, concerts,

Luminate 2011

dance, exhibition, fun run, dragon boats,

Canaan Downs, Golden Bay, Jan 27-Feb 1

workshops, food, wine and more.

Summerdaze

Most events are free.

Returning for its fourth year, Luminate

www.wotzon.com

is an earth- and family-friendly festival of music, art, dance, creativity and

Marlborough

sustainability. World-class musical lineup, workshops, stalls, etc.

Westland

Marlborough Wine Festival

www.luminatefestival.co.nz

Wildfoods Festival

Brancott Estate, Blenheim, Feb 12

Cass Square, Hokitika, March 12-13

New Zealand’s longest-running wine

Canterbury

The annual Hokitika wild foods hoe-down

festival. A unique selection of Marlborough

World Buskers Festival

is now in its 22nd year and still drawing

wines, delicious local produce and gourmet

Around Christchurch, Jan 20-30

big crowds to experience weird grub

cuisine. Wine tutorials with leading

(and grubs) with top bands on several

winemakers and viticulturists, Fashion in

Always a great time to visit Christchurch:

stages and a big party atmosphere.

the Vines competition and entertainment

40 acts, 450 live shows, 550 hours of

www.wildfoods.co.nz

from the likes of Sola Rosa, Opensouls,

mostly free entertainment from some of

The Checks and more.

the world’s top street performers. Book

www.wine-marlborough-festival.co.nz

accommodation early, it’s a popular event!

Queenstown Lakes

www.worldbuskersfestival.com

Summerdaze Queenstown and Wanaka venues,

Havelock Mussel Festival Havelock Domain, March 19

Dec 31-Jan 30

Waipara Valley Wine & Food Festival Glenmark Church, Waipara, March 5

THE BEST WEEKENDS & SHORT BREAKS [PAGE 8]

Non-stop entertainment includes the Topp

Kicking off with a New Year’s Eve celebration, the annual month-long

Twins and The Beat Girls. Celebrity cooks,

Annual summer celebration

festival has music, sports, arts and crafts,

kids’ stuff, mussel-related competitions,

in a lovely rural setting, with live music

kids’ stuff, skateboarding competitions,

on-water displays, food, wine and beer

and wines from 20 wineries to match

outdoor theatre, mountain biking events,

stalls, jewellery and craft stalls.

with food from around 20 stalls.

markets, outdoor cinemas and more.

www.havelockmusselfestival.co.nz

www.visithurunui.co.nz

www.summerdaze.co.nz

Whether it’s food and wine or dancing until you drop, New Zealand is a virtual paradise for festival lovers over the summer months. Be sure to check out our list of the Must-Do events and vote for your faves! www.aatravel.co.nz/101



Urban Flight

Patrick Smith falls for the distinctly French charms of Akaroa.

Photo: Christchurch & Canterbury Tourism

A-Class Sailing

A PERKED-UP CHRISTCHURCH HAD THE WELCOME MAT OUT FOR VISITORS, BUT THE DRIVING RAIN THAT GREETED OUR ARRIVAL ONE RECENT FRIDAY AFTERNOON WAS LIKE A SOGGY HANDSHAKE.

“It’s been gorgeous all week,” we heard

They established a lovely garden, which now includes a small

someone say as we checked in for our rental

private vineyard.

car at the Avis counter. Story of my life. But

door to Wilderness House in Rue Grehan. Yes, Jim agreed, the

slung Falcon XR6 – in the airport parking lot.

weather was appalling, “but it was absolutely beautiful yesterday”.

It rained and blew for the rest of the

THE BEST WEEKENDS & SHORT BREAKS [PAGE 10]

Current owners Jim and Liz Couborough greeted us at the

my spirits rose when I found our car – a low-

Wilderness House is a splendid two-storey home that Jim and

day as we wound our way out of the city and

Liz converted into a boutique B&B 10 years ago. Liz is an interior

through the hills to Akaroa. We passed Lake

designer and Jim, a former Army officer, collects old military prints;

Ellesmere and Lake Forsyth, Little River and

dozens of dashing Hussars gaze down on guests as they climb the

Barry’s Bay and skirted the harbour until, an

wooden staircase to their rooms.

hour and a half after leaving Christchurch,

At six that evening we joined Jim and Liz and four Australian

we arrived in Akaroa, a pretty, characterful

guests in the lounge for drinks and nibbles. Conversation flowed

village built on a volcanic crater that’s now

easily, as did the wine, made from Jim’s own grapes. We didn’t want

Akaroa Harbour. French settlers came here

to leave the cosy gathering but we’d booked dinner at an Akaroa

in 1840 and their heritage lives on in street

institution called Bully Hayes.

names like Rue Lavaud and Rue Jolie. We were staying in a heritage home, this one built by an English couple in 1878.

The restaurant sits right across Beach Road from the harbour; the kind of place where, on a warm evening, you’d grab an outdoor table and take in the view. Not tonight, Josephine.


Photos: Patrick Smith Jim & Liz Couborough

“An exhilarating afternoon, with the bonus of spotting little blue penguins and Hector’s dolphins.” Wilderness House

At one o’clock sharp Ray Shoebridge welcomed us aboard his classic yacht

chowder, Akaroa salmon, pan-seared groper and slow-roasted

Manutara at the main wharf. The 14.4m

pork belly. The menu was long and inventive and the dishes

ocean-going yacht was one of the last A-Class

reasonably priced.

keelers, built in 1962 from Burmese teak and

The next morning, after a gourmet breakfast at Wilderness House, we called A-Class Sailing to see if our harbour sail was still on. The weather was cold and blustery and the trip was postponed

a single NZ kauri tree, “cut down in 1953 and seasoned for eight years”. The sun appeared. We took turns at

until the afternoon. What to do? We made for the i-SITE Visitor

the helm, learnt the difference between

Centre and picked up gear for an audio-tour, which we thought

tacking and jibing, port and starboard, sheets

would be a good introduction to Akaroa.

and boom, mainsail and genoa. It was an

So it proved to be. As we followed the prescribed route

exhilarating afternoon, with the bonus of

through the village we heard stories of Ngai Tahu, Banks

spotting little blue penguins and a couple

Peninsula’s earliest inhabitants, and their decimation by

of Hector’s dolphins.

Te Rauparaha’s warriors in 1831. We heard about Jean Langlois,

Back at the wharf, we crossed the road

captain of a French whaling ship, who negotiated with a local chief

and ducked into the Akaroa Cooking School,

to buy the peninsula – only to find on his return from France a

where Ant and Lou Bentley were clearing up

British warship sitting in the harbour. We heard about the whalers

after one of their day-long classes. We’d hoped

and gazed into huge iron rendering pots. Later we visited the very

to join them in a shorter class the next day

fine little Akaroa Museum, at the back of Langlois-Eteveneaux

but a big catering job had come up, so we were

Cottage, still furnished as the home of a French settler.

making do with a chat over a glass of wine.

THE BEST WEEKENDS & SHORT BREAKS [PAGE 11]

Luckily, the restaurant is also known for its food – especially local seafood – and we dined royally on Bully’s “famous” seafood


Akaroa Harbour

Lou & Ant Bentley – Akaroa Cooking School

Akaroa Golf Course

The school is light and airy, its tall bifold windows and doors taking in the harbour view. The kitchen is behind a long demonstration counter with a mirror overhead so no detail is missed. Ant said the school had really taken off since it opened a year ago. “It’s an indulgent day,” he said, “people just love it.” It sounded like fun. Today’s “Gourmet in a Day” class, for example, had begun at 10am with tea, coffee and freshly baked treats from the kitchen. Then Lou created dishes for an opulent four-course dinner party menu, beginning with canapés. There was a break for a glass of bubbly at 11.30

“It was early and we had the beautiful little Akaroa

THE BEST WEEKENDS & SHORT BREAKS [PAGE 12]

Golf Course to ourselves – along with uninterrupted views of the harbour from several holes..”

and lunch was at 2pm, time to sample Lou’s dishes with matched wines. “People have started to come from all over,” Lou told us. “We get people from Auckland and Wellington who do a class, go out on a boat – they know Akaroa’s a great place to spend a weekend; and the fresh produce around here is fabulous.” We left clutching recipes from the day’s class and vowing to be participants next time. Next morning, after another perfect breakfast, of scrambled eggs, Akaroa smoked salmon and

asparagus, we headed off to Duvauchelle for a round on the challenging 18-hole Akaroa Golf Course. It was early and we had the beautiful little course to ourselves – along with uninterrupted views of the harbour from several holes. “Undulating” is the polite word for the first few holes.


Photos: Patrick Smith

exclusive handmade jewellery

Giant’s House garden

“Heartbreaking” might describe fairways that tip precariously towards the sea and sometimes offer blind shots to postage-stamp greens. But “fun” was the operative word for our morning’s golf. We motored back into Akaroa for lunch at Ma Maison, a restaurant and bar beside the harbour, where we ate fresh pan-fried fish at an outdoor table in the sun (yes, sun!). Artist Josie Martin owns a gracious old home called Linton – better known as the Giant’s House – on Rue Balguerie. She also has an amazing imagination and over many years the Giant’s House and its garden have

“… but the garden is what pulls in the crowds: a wonderland of surreal, whimsical, mosaic-clad figures, tableaux and fantastical objects that are breathtaking in their inventiveness, colour and detail.”

been her canvas. Josie runs a B&B in the house, which is full of original paintings and quirky touches (like a double bed in a boat), but the garden is what pulls in the crowds: a wonderland of surreal, whimsical, mosaic-clad figures, tableaux and fantastical objects that are breathtaking in their inventiveness, colour and detail. Behind the house is a gallery containing Josie’s paintings and drawings. The whole experience left us smiling in wonder. There’s so much to do in and around Akaroa – walks, cycling tours, penguin-watching, horse treks, wildlife cruises and swimming with dolphins, kayaking, art and food trails – but our time was up.

1st Floor, 10 High Street, Auckland, phone 309 5145 www.caratsjewellery.co.nz


Photos: Patrick Smith Robinsons Bay

We had one more stop to make on

Giant’s garden cat

have desks at Christchurch airport.

Links

the way back to Christchurch; and when

Akaroa is about 90 minutes from the

www.avis.co.nz

we reached Barry’s Bay we pulled into

airport via SH75, or longer if you take

www.bullyhayes.co.nz

the carpark of Barry’s Bay Cheese. Our

the scenic tourist loop from Hilltop.

www.aclasssailing.co.nz www.akaroacooking.co.nz

souvenirs of Banks Peninsula would include slabs of mature rinded cheddar, maasdam

Stay

www.akaroagolf.co.nz

and gruyere, fruit pastes, preserves and

Wilderness House, 42 Rue Grehan.

www.mamaison.co.nz

more. What’s the French word for “yum”?

Ph. (03) 304 7517.

www.thegiantshouse.co.nz

www.wildernesshouse.co.nz

www.barrysbaycheese.co.nz

Fact File

More Info

Getting There

Akaroa Visitor Centre, 80 Rue Lavaud.

Auckland-Christchurch flights can be

Ph. (03) 304 8600.

bought online for as little as $39 one way.

www.akaroa.com

Avis and other major car rental companies

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classics

coastal

MANY KIWIS’ EARLIEST MEMORIES OF SUMMER ARE CHARGED WITH SUN, SAND AND THE SALTY TASTE OF THE SEA. Your perfect beach? That might depend on your point of view – whether you’re a surfer, a swimmer, a walker, a birdwatcher, a sunbather (heaven forbid!), a parent … it’s all subjective. We decided to ask some of the folk who write for this magazine – and who all get around a bit – to share their best-loved beaches.

Graham Reid Stanmore Bay, Whangaparaoa Peninsula. Perhaps because I spent every magical childhood summer here, and my Dad’s ashes were scattered in these blue waters, this beach holds a special place in my affections. But it is also a gentle curve of sand, safe for children and looks towards an endless north. Just beautiful.

Vava’u, Samoa. Samoa has more than its share of beautiful, palm-lined beaches. But this one on Upolu is safe, quiet and almost a cliché of prettiness at its western end, where the tide tugs

Emily Bay, Norfolk Island. Emily Bay is exactly the right size for families (kids always in sight but far enough away) and if you just want to do nothing, the white sand and waves pounding against the distant reef will encourage you.

Photo: ©kirklandphotos.com

gently between the coast and the island outcrop.


Emily Bay, Norfolk Island

A strip of sand warmed by the sun, blue water stretching to the horizon – simple pleasures that speak of summer. Where’s your perfect beach? Vava’u, Samoa

Fraser Island, Queensland

a swimmer, a walker, a birdwatcher, a sunbather (heaven forbid!), a parent … it’s all subjective.”

THE BEST WEEKENDS & SHORT BREAKS [PAGE 17]

“… whether you’re a surfer,


Whiritoa, Coromandel

Cheltenham, Devonport

Jane Binsley Tawharanui, North Auckland. The quintessential East Coast beach.

Photo: Patrick Smith

Karekare, Auckland’s west coast

Karekare, Auckland’s west coast. The best of the wild west.

Enclosure Bay, Waiheke Island. A tiny, semi-enclosed bay with fascinating rock pools.

Whiritoa, Coromandel. A golden sweep of ocean sand with a secluded lagoon at the north end that’s lovely for kids.

Vivian Bay, Kawau. One of the country’s few west-facing east-coast beaches – great at sunset.

Karen Goa Cheltenham, Devonport. Easy to get to and there’s lots of space to spread your blankets and picnic. I usually meet somebody I know and I can go for a walk up North Head or to the

“Karekare, Auckland’s west coast.

ice cream shop. Plus, of course, there is no better place from which to view Rangitoto.

The best of the wild west.”


Hahei, Coromandel

Cathedral Cove, Coromandel

Mount Maunganui Beach

Anya Kussler New Chums, Coromandel. Walk over the headland from Whangapoua to this slice of pristine coastline. It’s a long beach and the clean, white sand only has a few shells dotted along it. The crystal-clear water sparkles all day and at night you

“Climb Mauao at Mt Maunganui; walk to Cathedral Cove from Hahei; and over the

can usually swim with a halo of phosphorescence.

hill to Orokawa Bay at

Fraser Island, Queensland.

Waihi Beach.”

There’s a lake beach with a pub nearby. The finest, whitest silica sand in the world and fresh water to swim in.

Monique Balvert-O’Connor Waihi and Hahei, Coromandel, and Mount Maunganui Beach. All three fit my criteria for the perfect beach: 1. Visually stunning. White sand, aquamarine waters and red pohutukawa. Hard to beat. 2. A great walk on the doorstep. Climb Mauao at Mt Maunganui; walk to Cathedral Cove from Hahei; and over the hill to Orokawa Bay at Waihi Beach. 3. Safe. All have waves, though and that’s a must. 4. Great coffee nearby.

Victoria Bartle Tahunanui, Nelson. As a dog-owner, I find the freedom of the southern end all year round. There is also an estuary behind the main beach where dogs are free to sprint and frolic and socialise with other dogs as much as they like. No leads required: council dispensers maintain a good supply of doggy bags.

THE BEST WEEKENDS & SHORT BREAKS [PAGE 19]

of Tahunanui wonderful because it’s a doggy domain,


Whangapoua, Gt Barrier Island

Conway Beach, North Canterbury

Martins Bay, Fiordland

Patrick Smith Matai Bay, Karikari Peninsula. One of several gems on this Far North peninsula. Others include Tokerau, Rangiputa, Karikari and Puheke.

Whangapoua, Gt Barrier Island. Broad and beautiful, with a tiny island at the centre of the bay. You’ll probably be the only person there.

Martins Bay, Fiordland. I walked for 8km along this wild stretch of coast at the top of Lake McKerrow. You’ll see penguins in season, seals all year round – and no one else.

Conway Beach, North Canterbury. Black sand, the occasional seal, the odd fisherman and the Seaward Kaikouras rising in the distance.

Booderee National Park, NSW. Long, startlingly white beaches fringe the southern end of Jervis Bay, about 2½ hours drive south of Sydney.

Aitutaki, Cook Islands. Can the sea really be this blue, the beaches so white? You better believe it. Amazing, gorgeous, etc., etc.

Looking for a perfect place to lounge on sandy shores or have a hidden secret you’d like to share? Get online and vote for your favourite beaches in Aotearoa. www.aatravel.co.nz/101


Aitutaki, Cook Islands

“I walked for 8km along this wild stretch of coast at the top of Lake McKerrow. You’ll see penguins in season, seals all year round – and no one else.�

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Eating Out

k n i r d t a e chill

Good bars with good food – Graham Reid checks out the Auckland scene.

Suite Bar

Basement/2 Hobson St

Down precipitous stairs, it’s a

City

place where time seems to stand still.

Ph. 307 7030

The afternoon sun might be blazing bright but Suite offers a flattering semi-

Few things are more enjoyable than a

THE BEST WEEKENDS & SHORT BREAKS [PAGE 22]

drink with your partner or friends before

twilight at all hours. The cocktails are excellent (they won

so you may want to check in advance if the DJ is in residence. They also whip up excellent thinbase pizzas (among other things). Suite Bar is the place to meet for a drink before moving on, but also a warm-

or after a function, event or sports fixture.

the 2009 Metro award for best cocktails)

down location after a show or some other

Beforehand means you get to chat in

– on a recent visit my wife said the G’n’T

occasion where you can have a drink and

anticipation; afterwards you can dissect at

they mixed was the best she’d had in years

something to eat.

leisure. And sometimes you might want to

– and the staff are knowledgeable, friendly,

arrive early enough, or stay later, to eat.

have something to say but also know when

Suite Bar – within walking distance

to leave you alone.

of Britomart, downtown and the Viaduct

The central bar means the room is

(and a comfortable distance from Queen

naturally divided between standing and

St’s offices if you’re simply dropping in for a

seating areas and the music selection in the

drink) – has all the cool, dark ambience of

post-work hours can be unobtrusive, cool,

a sophisticated bar in Big City America.

low-range dub. But they cater to functions

Sophisticated, friendly and elegant without pretension.


More Good Bars The Dominion

two-minute walk of the Civic, Town Hall

Jimmy Wongs

234 Dominion Rd

and Aotea Centre, this bar-cum-restaurant

5b Lorne St

Mt Eden

offers a number of different atmospheres

City

Ph. 623 2121

(the back bar facing Lorne St is the best),

Ph. 300 6381

so it’s the ideal place to hook up with This comfortable corner bar with a separate

friends before or after a show. And the food

This is a favourite for cocktails and a

dining area will come into its own when

is excellent.

quick bite – which always turns into looking at the menu, not being able to

the World Cup arrives at Eden Park, less than five minutes’ walk away. But before

The Playhouse Pub

decide and ordering one dish too many,

then it consistently delivers for a casual

Aotea Square

but never regretting it. Delicious food,

drink, brunch/lunch (indoors or outdoors)

City

friendly people, elegant ambience – the

or dinner. And a stroll around the

Ph. 302 1118

sort of place you shouldn’t visit before a

will impress you. A tip? Great pizzas.

Many heading to the Town Hall or Aotea Centre pass on by the Playhouse – which

Brooklyn Bar

faces onto the redesigned Aotea Square.

332 Queen St

Yet it’s a welcoming, casual English-style

City

pub (with a bust of the Bard) which doesn’t

Ph. 303 2332

pretend to sophistication, so isn’t for the hip’n’fashionable. But it’s honest, and a

Not quite the American-style establishment

central place to meet for a drink and/or a

the name suggests but located within a

bite before or after a show.

Recommended.

THE BEST WEEKENDS & SHORT BREAKS [PAGE 23]

show because you won’t want to rush away.

perimeter of Eden Park before or afterwards


Drive Time Jane Binsley heads north to Tutukaka and the marine wonderland around the Poor Knights.

perfect just a

day

Perfect Day Ocean Cruise


I CAN SEE IT’S GOING TO BE A PERFECT DAY THE MOMENT I FLICK OPEN THE BEDROOM CURTAINS. The view from our hilltop unit at Tutukaka’s Pacific Rendezvous is stunning – the headland drops away just metres from our window, with little between us and the Poor Knights Islands on the horizon except an expanse of glassy blue ocean. The day is so clear the little group of islands about 24 kilometres offshore look far closer than they really are. We couldn’t have fluked a better day to head out on the water to explore them.

Poor Knights

Just two hours later we’re breakfasted, sunscreened and on board a Perfect Day Ocean Cruise, skimming out of Tutukaka marina. “You’ve got the right day for it, folks,” reports our skipper Luke Howe. “It doesn’t get much better than this. It’s the flattest it’s been since ... yesterday.” Luke and his energetic young crew seem genuinely delighted to be at work and I can see why – there aren’t many jobs where your “office” is a spectacular piece of coastline that has recently been named second equal in National Geographic Traveler’s list of the world’s

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best coastal destinations. The Poor Knights have also recently been named one of the top 10 wildlife destinations in the world by the Guardian newspaper in the UK. As we glide over the mirror-smooth water, Luke keeps up a perfectly pitched commentary about the history and geography of the islands, which were formed about

“The Poor Knights have

100 million years ago from volcanic rock that has since eroded away in parts, leaving fascinating formations

also recently been named

including rock stacks, caves, tunnels and arches. Two main

one of the top 10 wildlife

they’re surrounded by clusters of smaller islets, including

islands make up most of the 200-hectare land area, but the almost-vertical Pinnacles and the guano-encrusted

destinations in the world by the Guardian newspaper in the UK.”

Sugar Loaf. We anchor in the shadow of the second-largest island, Aorangi, and lose no time in getting wetsuited and into the chilly spring water. There’s no pressure to snorkel if it’s not your thing; if you’d rather paddle about in a kayak or

just laze around on board scoffing the chunky sandwiches and nibbling at the fruit platter, you’re most welcome. An underwater video camera is dropped overboard and the live footage beamed onto a screen in the cabin, so those who don’t feel like getting wet can experience the colourful marine life swimming beneath the boat.

And what marine life it is! The Poor Knights are part of a marine reserve and the 120 species of fish, including many subtropical varieties which have surfed the East Australian current down from the Coral Sea, seem to know they’re in safe waters, showing barely a

THE BEST WEEKENDS & SHORT BREAKS [PAGE 26]

flicker of interest as I approach through the swaying kelp forests. Back on board, a quick spin around the rest of the islands takes us into the vast, echoing cathedral of the largest sea cave in the world, through gravity-defying rock arches and past a lone seal basking in the sun at the foot of one of the Pinnacles. With no rats, stoats, weasels or cats to worry them, the land-based inhabitants of the Poor Knights nature reserve live as blessed a life as the fish below. The biggest tuatara in New Zealand makes its home here, as do 30cm-long geckos, giant 25cm-long centipedes and cave wetas that measure 30cm from their antennae to their hind claws.



Schnappa Rock, Tutukaka


Hearing this makes me feel much better about the fact that we’re banned from setting foot on the islands. Safely ashore again at Tutukaka, we scamper back to the Pacific Rendezvous for a quick round of tennis and a dip in the pool and spa before heading down to bustling Schnappa Rock Café for a dinner that includes creamy coconut-infused raw fish salad and tender New Zealand lamb. There’s a band playing for free in the paddock behind the café, so we linger for a couple of songs before tiredness overcomes us and we head back up the hill. As I draw the curtains on the moonlit seascape below, I reflect that this was, indeed, a perfect day.

Fact File Getting There Tutukaka is on the coast northeast of Whangarei, about 2½ hours’ drive from Auckland.

Stay Pacific Rendezvous, 73 Motel Rd, Tutukaka, has charming units with panoramic views and family-friendly facilities. For information and bookings ph. 0800 999 800 or visit www.pacificrendezvous.co.nz

Eat Schnappa Rock, on the marina at Tutukaka, is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner seven days a week. For information and bookings ph. (09) 434 3774 or visit www.schnapparock.co.nz

More Info Perfect Day Ocean Cruises information and bookings: ph. 0800 288 882 or visit www.aperfectday.co.nz. For more information about the region see www.northlandnz.com or www.whangareinz.com


Passport Required

THE BEST WEEKENDS & SHORT BREAKS [PAGE 30]

privileged Susan Buckland finds untouched beaches, jungle pools and fearless land divers on a luxurious small-ship cruise to Vanuatu’s outer islands.


WHAT BETTER WAY TO EXPLORE TROPICAL ISLANDS THAN FROM A BOAT? AND NOT JUST ANY OLD BOAT. ISLAND PASSAGE, THE NEW ZEALAND-OPERATED VESSEL WE BOARDED FOR A WEEK-LONG VOYAGE AMONG VANUATU’S OUTER ISLANDS CARRIES JUST 20 PASSENGERS IN GLORIOUS COMFORT.

“But for now we will help you plant a foot in that powder sand,”

cabin,” explained the purser, showing us to

laughed Paul, as he pointed to a spit of sparkling sand across the

our ensuite cabins. I wondered how movies

water. A tender was lowered over the side, we grabbed flippers and

could compete with the environment

were soon floating over corals teeming with fish.

we had entered. Minutes after departing

By evening passengers were remarking on the pleasing absence

from Espiritu Santo Island it seemed we

of tourists. Yet flights from Auckland to Vanuatu take about the same

had the world to ourselves. There were no

time as those to Fiji. “We have villages on some of our 83 islands

other vessels about – just a solitary turtle,

where foreigners are rarely seen,” Island Passage’s Vanautuan purser

swimming past with his small head above

told us.

the water like a submarine periscope. We sipped tropically infused cocktails

The heavens opened next morning as we climbed into dugout canoes at the mouth of Santo’s Riri River. Rainforest grew thickly to

while the New Zealand captain, Paul

the banks and snaked over the glassy green water. Suddenly, it turned

Mabee, whet our appetites with planned

astonishingly blue. We had reached a deep water hole at the end of

activities. A dugout canoe trip into the

the river and the rain bounced off its surface like millions of crystals.

jungle. Excursions to villages. Snorkelling

Already drenched, we barrelled out of the canoes and burst into song

and fishing. Swimming from coral-sand

in the tingling freshness of the jungle pool.

beaches and in pools fed by waterfalls. And,

The sun was shining when the day of the eagerly anticipated

the icing on the cake: a trip to see

land divers of Pentecost Island finally arrived and we joined villagers,

the famous land divers of Pentecost Island –

dancers and divers from Pangi village as they moved towards a high,

daring men who plunge headlong from high

rickety-looking tower built of poles lashed together with vines.

platforms towards the earth with jungle

The land diving celebrates the yam harvest and manhood.

vines lashed round their ankles.

Wearing no more than penis sheaths, men and boys as young as 12

It’s an activity that inspired AJ Hackett’s

dive from April to June when the vines they lash round their ankles

first bungy jump and subsequent worldwide

are at their strongest. Our small group watched transfixed as they

tourism operation.

hurled themselves off narrow platforms at ever-increasing heights,

Dugout canoe trip

Village dancers

“Rainforest grew thickly to the banks and snaked over the glassy green water. Suddenly, it turned astonishingly blue. We had reached a deep water hole at the end of the river and the rain bounced off its surface like millions of crystals.”

THE BEST WEEKENDS & SHORT BREAKS [PAGE 31]

“You have a wide choice of movies in the


Village children greet Island Passage guests

Land diver, Pentecost Island

the vines unravelling behind them like snakes. Finally, the last diver stepped out onto the highest platform, 30 metres above the ground. He dived, the vines snapped taut as his head appeared to skim the ground and he sprang to his feet to acknowledge the cheers. The brave divers of Pentecost Island were the talk of the night as we sailed back towards Luganville, the small port of Santo. And before disembarking Island Passage I bid my cabin and its still-untouched movie selection a fond farewell.

Fact File Getting There Air Vanuatu (www.airvanuatu.com) flies direct from Auckland to Espirito Santo twice a week and three times a week to Port Vila. Both Air New Zealand (www.airnewzealand.co.nz) and Pacific Blue

THE BEST WEEKENDS & SHORT BREAKS [PAGE 32]

fly direct Auckland-Port Vila three or four times a week. More Info Island Passage’s five- and six-night cruises in Vanuatu operate between May and October. See www.islandescape.co.nz for more details. For overnight stays at Aore Island Resort see www.aoreresort.com. For information on Vanuatu and its islands, see http://vanuatu.travel

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Have a day out on Waiheke Island in the New Year and take in one of the country’s top outdoor art spectaculars.

on the WAIHEKE ISLAND HAS BEEN A HAVEN FOR

weeks, is laid out along 2.5 kilometres

ARTISTS, CRAFTSPEOPLE AND WRITERS FOR

of coastal walkway where the large-scale

MANY YEARS – GOOGLE “ARTS WAIHEKE

installations rise up against a backdrop

feature along the walkway are Virginia King,

ISLAND” AND YOU’LL COME UP WITH DOZENS

of sea, sky, the gulf and its islands.

John Edgar, Gregor Kregar, Denis O’Conner,

OF NAMES, GALLERIES AND STUDIOS.

“It’s a very dramatic landscape

all ages; children will love it.” Among the 38 artists whose works will

Paul Radford and Jeff Thomson. For the first

and the works are all site-specific; the

time, two overseas artists – Marcus Tatton

It’s not surprising then, that Waiheke

artists choose where they want to site

from Australia and Mardell Grosse from

should be the site for one of the country’s

their sculptures and design them to suit

Germany – will be in the headland lineup.

top outdoor sculpture events, an exhibition

the site,” says headlands project director

that showcases the works of top national

Juliet Monaghan.

and international artists in a beautiful natural setting.

“We’ve got some very exciting and

Organisers suggest visitors spend about two to three hours walking, browsing and taking in the views. Shuttle buses will

inventive works this year that relate to our

collect passengers from the end of the trail

The headland SCULPTURE ON THE

Kiwi culture. Lots of surprises and some

every 20 minutes and return to Matiata

GULF 2011 exhibition, which runs for 3½

interactive fun. It’s got lots of appeal for

Wharf, making hop-on, hop-off stops at

THE BEST WEEKENDS & SHORT BREAKS [PAGE 34]

Lightfall 2011 by Julie Anna Child and Peter Mrost

High Chair 2011 by Duncan Sargent

Green Car 666 by Roger Thompson


Mud Brick or Cable Bay wineries and the Waiheke Community Art Gallery in Oneroa, where they’ll find seaside cafés, shops and a very pleasant beach. “Most people will come over and make a day of it,” says Juliet, “maybe have lunch at a winery – it’s a wonderful day out.”

Fact File Fullers Ferries leave hourly from the Downtown Ferry Terminal on Quay St. Island shuttle buses for the exhibition cost $5 adults/$2.50 children. See www.fullers.co.nz for details.

More Info headland SCULPTURE ON THE GULF 2011 runs from Jan. 28 to Feb. 20 (9am-6pm daily). Gold-coin donations are invited on entry. See www.sculptureonthegulf.co.nz for details. Flotsam by Paul Radford 2009

Jeff Thomson’s Water Tank

Discover Auckland’s Stunning Marine Playground Waiheke Island 1

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Photo: Geoff Land (March 2010 Gallery)

Getting There


Just For Two

Anya Kussler and friend spend the weekend at Ti Point Retreat, sipping Syrah, breathing fresh country air and perfecting the art of hanging out.

TI POINT RETREAT HAS THE ULTIMATE CRUISE FACTOR. BUT YOU DON’T HAVE TO CRUISE THE

THE BEST WEEKENDS & SHORT BREAKS [PAGE 36]

WORLD TO GET THERE.

Our host, Jan Haslam, is as charming as the vistas. Mrs Kiwi Hospitality personified and a hoot to boot, she takes us on a tiki tour of our generously proportioned weekend home. Our first and lasting impression: “This is one hell of a whare!” We’re shown the super-king master bedroom, the open-plan living area and a

From Auckland, it takes us only an hour by

kitchen better stocked than my own at the best of times. Better still, there are retractable

car – 45 minutes north to Matakana, then 15

glass doors, windows and decks all round, so we can enjoy the luscious 270-degree views

minutes up a windy scenic road towards Leigh

whether we’re inside or out.

and, voilá, there it is! Our very own private

Ti Point is full of authentic touches. One is the curved roof, modelled on the

hideaway sits high on a ridge soaking up

tramcars once used as holiday baches at nearby Tramcar Bay. What’s unusual too is

marvellous 360-degree views of Omaha Beach,

that the grapes at this acclaimed vineyard have been cultivated by three generations

the estuary, hillside vineyards and ocean.

of Haslam women.


Photos: Guy Needham & Anya Kussler

The retreat’s spacious deck overlooks Omaha Bay

Open-plan dining and lounge area

Panoramic views Ti Point vineyard

Already so enamoured with the place that we’re reluctant to go anywhere else,

“Better still, there are

we nevertheless decide to at least head to stunning Goat Island Marine Reserve for a Back at Ti Point we set the scene for this stunning afternoon with a cheese platter (made with goodies from the kitchen, including Jan’s homemade pickles) and a glass of more-ish Ti Point Viognier. We follow this by the obligatory afternoon nap – with such a hectic schedule, it’s easy to run out of steam. Before we know it it’s 6.30pm – spot-on for a stroll past the Merlot vines down to the estuary to watch the sunset. On the way down, we pass the two kayaks guests can use to explore the tidal flats, but Regan opts for a rock oyster hunt while I try to make myself useful behind the camera.

retractable glass doors, windows and decks all round, so we can enjoy the luscious 270-degree views whether we’re inside or out.”

THE BEST WEEKENDS & SHORT BREAKS [PAGE 37]

bout of sea-life spotting and rock-hopping.


Estuary at sunset Ti Point – cocktail hour

One magic sunset and a clamber up the hill later (our exercise for the day), a pasta carbonara cook-up beckons in our Masterchef kitchen.

“… a pasta carbonara

The rest of the evening is spent horizontal in the lounge with a good book, a supple Ti Point Syrah at hand.

cook-up beckons in our

The next morning, over a freshly brewed coffee and egg brekkie on the sunny terrace, I’m already mulling over my bucket list for our next

Masterchef kitchen.”

visit. And next time, I promise myself, I shall be more physically active before getting into cruise mode. I shall tackle those tidal flats in the kayak, take one of Jan’s horses for a trot through the vines or go for a big hike. Yeah, right.

THE BEST WEEKENDS & SHORT BREAKS [PAGE 38]

Stuff to do in the area ~ Explore the marine life at Goat Island. ~ Visit Ti Point Reptile Park (if you can spot a croc, you win the jackpot). ~ On Saturday, go early to the Matakana Farmers’ Market and stock up on fresh produce and deli foods. ~ Explore Matakana Village: pop into The Vintry inside the cinema complex and enjoy a local tipple on the deck overlooking the square; see a film at the groovy cinema; browse the galleries. ~ Visit wineries in and around Matakana, including Ascension, Heron’s Flight, Hyperion, Omaha Bay and Brick Bay. Matakana Farmers’ Market


Hyperion Heights Brick Bay winery tasting room, Matakana

Luxury Country Cottage Matakana

Fact File Ti Point Retreat is at Ti Point, near Leigh, about an hour from Auckland. It can accommodate four people on a self-catering or B&B basis. And if you wish, Jan is only too happy to arrange dinner (think slow-cooked hearty fare in winter and barbies in summer) or prepare a picnic hamper, complete with fresh local goodies and produce from the Ti Point garden. See www.tipointretreat.co.nz for more details.

Luxury . comfort . restful views Treat yourself in Matakana Coast Wine Country 569 Whitmore Road, Matakana Ph: 09 422 9375 www.hyperionheights.co.nz

Make a romantic holiday for two last forever by making memories over a stunning drop of vino. Vineyard tours and tastings are ideal for a couples’ holiday. Get inspired with our 101 Must-do’s Vineyards lists. Vote for, or suggest your own fave!

www.aatravel.co.nz/101


Photos: Guy Needham & Anya Kussler

Urban Flight

THE BEST WEEKENDS & SHORT BREAKS [PAGE 40]

Among its other attractions, Whakatane is the jumping-off point for White Island, New Zealand’s only live marine volcano. Anya Kussler visits a surreal moonscape.


MY PHOTOGRAPHER FRIEND AND I COULDN’T HAVE CHOSEN A BETTER DAY TO FLY IN TO WHAKATANE: FOR THERE BELOW US, RISING OUT OF THE OCEAN AGAINST A PRISTINE SKY, IS THE SMOULDERING CRATER OF WHAKAARI – WHITE ISLAND. Our first move after arriving at Whakatane in the Eastern Bay of Plenty is to check in at White Island Rendezvous, a one-stop shop with spacious self-catering units and a coffee house where we can indulge in a wicked breakfast. The motel is a stone’s throw from Whakatane’s shops and cafés, but more importantly it’s right across the road from where the boat leaves for White Island, 49 kilometres offshore. A 9am next day we gather at the mooring of Pee Jay V, a 22-metre luxury launch purpose-built for tours to White Island. The 90-minute trip takes us past Whale Island, a bird and wildlife sanctuary that’s home to 23 kiwi. We sip hot soup to ward off the wind chill and finally moor off the island. A rubber inflatable is lowered and we head for land. Along the way we see whales and kingfish frolicking in the water, and gannets hunting for food.

White Island visitors in transit from launch to land

Bubbling volcanic mud

Land is a light grey mass with bright yellow specks and from the “beach” we head past old sulphur factory ruins and up to the smouldering crater lake and the highest viewpoint, Overall Mound. Along the way our guide, Allan, fills us in on a few interesting geographical and scientific facts. The first is that this is an explosive volcano, as opposed to one that spews lava and causes lahars. “There are three things that can happen,” he says. “There’s an explosion; an earthquake triggers a landslide; or there’s an avalanche. The trick is to go into hiding up high if anything happens.” The good news, he adds with a smile, “is that after 60 to 90 seconds Allan, who has been to the volcano more than 300 times, explains that the two main gases it emits are carbon dioxide and sulphur dioxide, which means there’s no rotten egg smell (that’s hydrogen sulphide). But we find we need the gas masks we’re handed as we get closer to the crater lake to prevent the sharp sensation the 200ºC steam triggers in our lungs.

THE BEST WEEKENDS & SHORT BREAKS [PAGE 41]

of intense terror it’s all over.”


There are several craters on the island, with names like Yellow Duck and Donald Duck. Vents send steam high into the air and have telltale names such as Noisy Nelly. As for the water bubbling in the spa mound below, Allan tells us the temperature can reach a whopping 800ºC, with an off-the-scale acidic rating. “So it’ll definitely be your last swim should you decide to dive in!” The island is always changing, which makes it of great interest to scientists, who constantly monitor the seismic activity with cameras and markers. Until the last major eruption 10 years ago, for example, you could walk around the island in bare feet. New vents emerge on a regular basis. For many years White Island was mined for sulphur. Inside that old factory we passed you can still see the equipment used to heat the ore and extract the sulphur, which was used for everything from making gunpowder to treating children’s ailments and fumigating houses. Today, it’s used as a hardening agent in rubber and to preserve dried fruits. The first mining venture was launched here in 1885 and eruptions and mining accidents claimed several lives. In one grim incident, in 1914, a landslide pushed a miners’ camp into the sea, killing 10 people. We finish our journey by circumnavigating White Island. The far end is surprisingly green and covered in pohutukawa trees. It’s easy to imagine a few goats chomping on the lush grass, not a gas mask in sight.

A reminder of the island’s mining past

Yellow sulphuric ore

THE BEST WEEKENDS & SHORT BREAKS [PAGE 42]

Fact File Getting There

More Info

Air New Zealand flies daily to Whakatane.

Pee Jay White Island Tours operate

See www.airnewzealand.co.nz for

seven days a week, weather permitting.

internet specials.

See www.whiteisland.co.nz for more details and other information about the island.

Stay White Island Rendezvous, 15 The Strand

Links

East, Whakatane. Ph. (07) 308 9588.

www.whakatane.com www.whakatane.info


Lady Wairaka statue at sunset

While in Whakatane … ~ Walk from famous Ohope Beach to Otarawairere Bay. For magnificent 360-degree views of the area, do the Kohi Point Walk. ~ Go kayaking on Ohiwa Harbour with KG Kayaks, then head off to Ohiwa Oyster Farm to taste the fresh treats. ~ In town, check out the Vertigraph at the Hillcrest Steps, right behind the gym. The idea is that when viewed from a distance, the 43 tiles depicting sea life form a single panorama. ~ Lunch on one of the berry-inspired concoctions at the Berry Farm Café, just outside town. ~ Grab some fish and chips and venture to the heads to check out the fishing boats, explore Muriwai’s Cave and watch the sun set behind the statue of Lady Wairaka, or Lady on the Rock. The statue pays tribute to the brave Maori woman who, 800 years ago, rescued women and children who were swept out to sea while the men were exploring the mainland. ~ For a great dining experience, try Toi Toi, The Wharf Shed or Roquette. ~ Browse the art works at 4 Artsake in Ohope.


Drive Time

Karen Goa finds hidden treasures in the Coromandel goldmining town of Waihi. BITS OF PLYWOOD ON WONKY WHEELS

A few kilometres out of Paeroa the

HURTLING DOWN WAIHI’S APTLY NAMED

road takes some pleasingly scenic twists

HASZARD ST ARE A CLUE THAT WAIHIANS

and turns through Karangahake Gorge.

TAKE THEIR FUN SERIOUSLY.

We meander past such mining relics as the Victoria Battery and goldmining railway

“Nestled in a bowl of

The whole town stands in the street

lines, now a popular walkway beside the

cheering for their favourites in the

tumble and splash of the Ohinemuri River.

velvety hills, Waihi

Trolley Derby, a highlight of Waihi’s

The Goldfields Railway train chuffing along

Goldfest celebrating the area’s

beside us carries madly waving tourists

goldmining past, present and future.

instead of gold ore from Waikino to Waihi.

lives up to its motto

I fancy the Burger on Wheels, but the

as New Zealand’s

speedy orange Beast takes all. On this perfect Coromandel-blue day we’ve travelled the road to Waihi

with spunk. Nestled in a bowl of velvety hills,

through Paeroa, stopping for a nosey at

Waihi lives up to its motto as

the famous L&P bottle and to fossick

“New Zealand’s Heart of Gold”. After the

among Paeroa’s antique and curio shops.

thrills and spills of the trolley derby (some

THE BEST WEEKENDS & SHORT BREAKS [PAGE 44]

Photos: Ian Laurie

Heart of Gold.”

Soon after, a twin row of majestic palms announces that we’ve reached a town

Museum & Art Gallery

Cornish Pump House


entrants fail to navigate the sharp bend at

Our accommodation for the night,

the end) we pick up an i-SITE Heritage

Manawa Ridge Eco-Retreat, is a short drive

Trail brochure and stroll the streets. The

from Waihi off Golden Valley Rd. From the

handsome town centre reveals more

moment we walk into the sunny Santa Fe-

than its fair share of restored boomtown

inspired courtyard I realise we’ve discovered

buildings: the 1890s Rob Roy Hotel, the

another of Waihi’s treasures. Crafted by

stately brick Post Office, Waihi Courthouse,

owners Willem and Carla van de Veen with

Waihi Gold Mining Museum and Art

lashings of heart and hard work over nearly

Gallery and, that iconic workhorse, the

a decade, Manawa Ridge combines adobe

Martha Mine No.5 Shaft Pumphouse.

brick and plastered straw-bale architecture

The Martha Mine itself, once one

in a synergy of serenity and space.

of the world’s biggest producers of gold

“We couldn’t decide which [material]

and silver, kick-started Waihi in the past

to use,” smiles Carla, “so we used both.”

and sustains it in the present. The scale of

Furnished indoors and out with

this whacking great hole – accessible via a

Carla’s own artworks and distinctive

well-maintained walkway behind the town

drums, rugs and other artefacts collected

– shrinks giant trucks to Dinky toys.

on the couple’s travels, the retreat’s

Burger on Wheels – Trolley Derby


Asian-influenced décor makes me want to kick off my shoes and go “aaaah”. I do

Fact File

just that in the turret, which is fitted out

Getting There

with comfortable cushions and an “I-spy”

Waihi is 145km south-east of Auckland

telescope positioned for admiring the

or about two hours’ drive via SH2

360-degree views to Mt Maunganui and

through Paeroa.

White Island. Our timber-themed suite, the

“After dinner we soak in our private

Stay

Fangorn, is such a calm and lovely oasis

Manawa Ridge, 267 Ngatitangata Rd,

I consider locking the door and never

off Golden Valley Rd. Ph. (07) 863 9400

leaving. Instead we retire to our own

or 021 229 9400; www.manawaridge.co.nz

private courtyard overlooking Mayor Island

river-stone outdoor spa, gazing at several galaxies’

to sample a tasty Riesling from Willem’s

Eat

vast subterranean wine cellar.

Gourmet dinner at Manawa Ridge

Dinner is a sumptuous reminder that

(pre-arranged at additional cost).

Manawa Ridge is a 10-hectare organic farm

Or try Kava Café, 40 Seddon St, Waihi,

and home to chickens, pigs and cattle.

ph. (07) 863 6728; kavacafe@gmail.com

I lick up every drop of my chicken and

worth of stars.”

mushroom soup starter, the pork loin seared

More Info

in Asian spices and a pudding of fragrant

Waihi and the Coromandel Peninsula

caramelised peaches.

are goldmines of summer festivals and

After dinner we soak in our private

activities. Visit www.waihi.org.nz

river-stone outdoor spa, gazing at several

or Waihi i-SITE Information Centre,

galaxies’ worth of stars. In this heavenly

126 Seddon St, ph. (07) 863 6715.

THE BEST WEEKENDS & SHORT BREAKS [PAGE 46]

spot, even the silence is golden.

Manawa Ridge courtyard

Turret, Manawa Ridge


relax, rejuv www.thelo enate...magic stspring.co .nz

When only a truly romantic weekend will do... THE

LOST SPRING THERMAL POOLS I DAY SPA I DINING

07 866 0456 121a Cook Drive Whitianga Children 14 years and over welcome


Passport Required

Crystal Caves

Skybury Coffee Plantation

Photos: Tourism Queensland

THE BEST WEEKENDS & SHORT BREAKS [PAGE 48]

Mossman Gorge


manners THE INLAND JOURNEY FROM CAIRNS COMPLETES A PERFECT CIRCULAR ROUTE AND THE TABLELAND TOWNS OFFER SOME INTERESTING ATTRACTIONS PLUS A FEW THAT ARE DOWNRIGHT QUIRKY. From Mareeba to Malanda, amid World Heritage rainforest, lakes, waterfalls, walks and wildlife, there are historic museums and a food and beverage trail to tempt the most jaded taste buds. En route, Mossman Gorge is home to the indigenous Yalanji people. Here the tribe forged everything it needed from the rainforest: food, shelter, implements, medicine, places for living, leisure, ceremonies and rock art, plus an innate sustainable philosophy to “only take what you need today and you will always have some for tomorrow”. My guided dreamtime walk in the rainforest with Kuku Yalanji becomes one of appreciation and education. Mareeba’s Skybury Coffee Plantation is an award-winning family business combining 48 hectares of Arabica cultivation, the Australian Coffee Centre for tours and tastes and a divine restaurant with views over the hinterland. Nearby Coffee Works is an indulgent “see it, smell it, taste it, buy it” Disneyland for coffee lovers with an absorbing Coffee and Tea History Museum. At the heart of the dairy industry since the 1890s, Atherton still claims the longest milk run in the world: from Malanda to Western Australia! As well as milk, Gallo Dairyland is a family farm renowned for award-winning cheeses and dreamy ice creams that beg to be tried at counter or café. Like an Indiana Jones film set, Atherton’s Crystal Cave houses a lifetime collection of the rarest, largest or oldest rocks and crystals, literally under the main street. Donning a miner’s helmet I’m suddenly inside a mineral masterpiece, then totally mesmerised by The Empress of Uruguay – the world’s largest amethyst geode.

THE BEST WEEKENDS & SHORT BREAKS [PAGE 49]

Tropical Northern Queensland is blessed with a dazzling coastline, but ignore the Atherton Tablelands and you forego a zesty side dish to the Cairns-Port Douglas area. By Wendy Dunlop.


Curtain Fig Tree

Herberton Historic Village replicates the area’s tin-mining past. Private

“I visit the extraordinary

ownership and dedicated volunteers have relocated authentic heritage buildings and memorabilia into a complete turn-of-the century township of nostalgia.

Curtain Fig Tree

But just up the road the real Herberton looks confusingly similar, sporting the delightful Herberton B&B, once the Post Office (circa 1913) and an iconic

and chance seeing

THE BEST WEEKENDS & SHORT BREAKS [PAGE 50]

Aussie pub that’s open for business. Malanda’s perfect climate and soil established the distinctive flavour and

platypuses in the

quality of Nerada, Queensland’s only tea plantation. The 12-step process from pest-free crop to my refreshing cup is delightfully explained as a “5,000-year-old spiritual force to share”, with as many rituals as wine tasting. I leave with a commitment to forego teabags and reinstate my teapot. Eden House Retreat and Mountain Spa, at pretty Yungaburra, is the ideal overnight stay: exquisite Edwardian homestead, wonderful hosts, divine villa comfort, therapeutic treatments to smooth and soothe me and a superb menu featuring “fresh and local”.

wild to Nick’s Swiss Restaurant.”

Photo: Tourism Queensland

Photos: Darryl Cooper

Herberton Historic Village


Quiet, green and restful, with Lakes Barrine and Tinaroo just up the road, I visit the extraordinary Curtain Fig Tree and chance seeing platypuses in the wild on a tranquil river walk to Nick’s Swiss Restaurant. At Nick’s, a 25-year institution in Yungaburra, the menu is eclectic, the welcome uncompromising, but traditionally you have to sing or play for your supper. Tralalaa! I did it – and the ordeal proved well worthwhile.

Fact File

More Info

Getting There

www.athertontablelands.com.au

Air New Zealand flies direct to Cairns

www.tpdd.com.au

three days a week (Wed, Fri, Sun); Pacific Blue has direct flights Tues

Links

and Sat. Rent a car for Atherton

www.yalanji.com.au

Tablelands tour (www.vroomvroom.com).

www.skybury.com.au www.arabicas.com.au

Stay

www.gallodairyland.com.au

Herberton B&B, Herberton,

www.crystalcaves.com.au

www.herbertonheritagecottage.com.au

www.herbertonhistoricvillage.com.au

Eden House Retreat and Mountain Spa,

www.neradatea.com.au

Yungaburra, www.edenhouse.com.au

www.nicksrestaurant.com.au


Drive Time

The Hauraki Gulf is a playground for creatures great and small. Jane Binsley and family go on safari.

“LOOK, MUM – OVER THERE,” SHOUTS MY DAUGHTER, POINTING OUT TO SEA. I SWIVEL SHARPLY, JUST IN TIME TO GLIMPSE THE BREACHING WHALE AS IT SLIPS GRACEFULLY BACK

THE BEST WEEKENDS & SHORT BREAKS [PAGE 52]

UNDER THE WATER.

No, we’re not in Kaikoura or the Bay of

day. Finding them would be like finding

Islands. We’re in the Hauraki Gulf, only

a needle in a haystack if it weren’t for his

an hour or so out of downtown Auckland,

secret weapon – gannets. Where there are

yet we’re surrounded by dozens of cavorting

flocks of gannets there are schools of fish

dolphins and one impressive but elusive

and where there are fish there are dolphins

Bryde’s whale.

and whales.

We’re standing on the deck of

Andy has been chasing whales and

Explore NZ’s comfortably appointed

dolphins for more than 17 years, nine of

20-metre catamaran, out at sea on an

them on this boat, so he has a good idea

afternoon Whale and Dolphin Safari. The

about where to look. He’s seen more whales

trip sets off from downtown Auckland and

than most of us have had tuna sandwiches,

can end up as far afield as Little Barrier or

but you can still hear the excitement in

the top of the Coromandel, depending on

his voice when he spots a plume. “Even

the water currents, tides, wind speed and

after 17 years I’m seeing things I’ve never

direction and other variables.

seen before,” he says. “We’ve had 11 or 12

Our captain for the day is Andy Light, who estimates there are between

whales around the boat some days.” It’s the first fine weekend after a long,

1,000 and 1,500 dolphins within this

wet winter, so the boat is full to capacity

1,000-square-nautical-mile area in any one

with about 100 passengers. We head up


the coast towards Kawau, passing between

crew all have marine biology degrees, and

Whangaparaoa and Tiritiri Matangi before

the safaris give them the opportunity to

we’re treated to a splendid display of

continue their research.

dolphin acrobatics from a troupe of these energetic marine mammals. Andy has a great hit rate: dolphins have been spotted on more than 90 per cent of these trips and whales on about

“We pay their fees, accommodation and a stipend each week,” says Andy. “Rather than let them work at McDonald’s while they study, we give them a job.” To average punters like us, however,

75 per cent of trips. If you’re one of the

it’s just a fun day on the water and an

few who miss out, the Lifetime Dolphin

opportunity for my daughter to see at first

Viewing Guarantee ensures you can go

hand the sea creatures she’s been studying

back for free as many times as it takes

at school. “We’re not here to eco-bash

until you get lucky.

people,” says Andy, “which is why we like

“I love the challenge,” says Andy.

getting the kids on board. If they can get

“We go hunting every day and when

inspiration by coming out on the water

we find them we shoot them – but

that’s a good thing.”

with cameras. “We’re very fortunate. There aren’t many cities that have dolphins and whales

Fact File

swimming in their own backyard. I love

Explore NZ’s Auckland Whale & Dolphin

it when Aucklanders come on the boat

Safari costs $155 adult/$105 child or $399

and we get to show them what’s in their

for a family. For information and bookings

backyard.”

phone 0800 397 567 or visit

Part of Explore NZ’s mission is to educate people about marine animals and

www.explorenz.co.nz Aucklanders can also join Friends

their environment. It’s also a research

of Explore NZ, which gives you a free

boat. The company works closely with the

Whale & Dolphin Safari when you’re

Department of Conservation, recording

hosting visitors. For information

all whale sightings and taking photos of

visit www.friendsofexplorenz.co.nz

THE BEST WEEKENDS & SHORT BREAKS [PAGE 53]

every whale they see. The friendly young


Drive Time

THE BEST WEEKENDS & SHORT BREAKS [PAGE 54]

Blokart Heaven

Monique Balvert-O’Connor introduces her Auckland friends to the pleasures of Tauranga and The Mount.

FORGET SKY TV, I FOUND MY HAPPY PLACE A LONG TIME AGO – MAYBE EVEN AS A TODDLER WHEN MY DAD FIRST PIGGYBACKED ME UP HERE.

In the 40 or so years since, I’ve lost track of how many times I’ve walked or run up Mauao (Mt Maunganui), but the appeal has never waned. Judging by the expressions on the faces of my Auckland friends, they’re hardly in a sad place right now either. We’re sitting atop Mauao basking in the early-morning sun and soaking up the astounding view. It’s that magical mix which strokes many a Kiwi soul – pohutukawa red, sandy shores and Pacific blue as far as the eye can see. Way, way below, the waters of Mt Maunganui beach await, with one side of the narrow peninsula offering a calm harbour and the other the Mount’s popular surf beach. We’re basing ourselves on the latter for a good chunk of the day. The Auckland teenagers have surf lessons booked, and we have the surf and body boards, umbrellas, spades and all other mandatory beach-day paraphernalia.


Bush Walk

Mauao Summit Track

Great cafés and gourmet ice cream shops are right across the road and we’ve packed a

“There, at

picnic hamper laden mainly with goodies acquired during yesterday’s visit to the Saturdaymorning market in Tauranga, just five minutes away over the harbour bridge.

New Zealand’s only

We need a day to just languish, where the most strenuous activity will be catching a the younger children a stroll around the start of the popular Mauao base track to the rock pools where we will hunt for hermit crabs. Yesterday was hugely active. As we’d hoped, the breeze was up just down the coast in Papamoa. There, at New Zealand’s only purpose-built Blokart track, our adventure junkies morphed into land sailors, having a total blast as they careered around in the three-wheeled, low-to-the-ground carts with sails. Little wonder that Blokart Heaven is among AA Travel’s 101 Regional Must Do’s. It’s a venue the locals are particularly proud of, as Blokarts were created, designed and manufactured in the Bay. Laser tag and clay bird shooting are also available in this zone of fun.

purpose-built Blokart track, our adventure junkies morphed into land sailors …”

THE BEST WEEKENDS & SHORT BREAKS [PAGE 55]

wave or unfurling an arm to toss crusts at ever-hopeful seagulls. I have, however, promised


The Blob

Mt Maunganui’s saltwater hot pools

“… fortunately for the weary amongst us, the day’s grand finale was mere paces away – a soak in Mt Maunganui’s saltwater hot pools.” The adrenalin rush continued throughout the afternoon, which we spent at Tauranga’s Waimarino Adventure Park. There, I suspect, we used up more than our quota of shrieks as

Fact File

we zoomed down the kayak slide and catapulted off The Blob (picture a super-sized, oblong-

Getting There

shaped inflatable beach ball). And our shrieks turned to primal howls to accompany our

Tauranga is around three hours from

efforts on the Tarzan swing.

Auckland via SH1 and SH2.

Quiet time came later on the river, in kayaks and pedal boats. They proved good vantage points from which to watch people of all ages also enjoy the river park’s climbing

More Info

wall, low ropes course and volleyball action.

For accommodation options and other

Foodie friends had recommended the multi-award-winning Mount Bistro as the place

information visit www.bayofplentynz.co.nz

to fortify the famished that night. And, fortunately for the weary amongst us, the day’s grand

THE BEST WEEKENDS & SHORT BREAKS [PAGE 56]

finale was mere paces away – a soak in Mt Maunganui’s saltwater hot pools. We can see the pools glittering below on this beautiful sunny Sunday morn as my friends and I descend Mauao. The beach beckons and we happily acquiesce.

Links www.blokartheaven.co.nz www.waimarino.com www.mountbistro.co.nz

Looking for Must-Do beaches and camp grounds in the Bay of Plenty? Be sure to check out all of the Must-Do’s online at www.aatravel.co.nz/101

Photos: Bay of Plenty Tourism

Great views – Mauao track


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Telecom Yabba Phone Cards can be purchased at Telecom Retail Stores, i-Site Visitor Information Centres and most petrol stations, supermarkets and convenience stores throughout New Zealand. Yabba can also be purchased online, visit www.yabba.co.nz for more information.

Terms and conditions: Advertised rates are for calls originating from NZ landlines, excluding payphones. Calling rates valid at 1st of October 2010. Rates and access numbers are subject to change without notice. Visit www.yabba.co.nz for the latest rates and full terms and conditions. All calls charged on a minute-by-minute basis. Rates apply 24 hours, 7 days a week, are in $NZD and include GST. Any outstanding balance on the card will expire on the date shown on the card if unused, or 12 months after the card is last used. Credit balances are not refundable and cards will not be replaced unless faulty. Calls from mobiles and Telecom New Zealand payphones attract an extra $0.25 per minute charge when using the New Zealand access number (this surcharge does not apply to Telecom Mobiles calling overseas from NZ). Where calls are made within or between overseas destinations, the calling rate applied will be as though the caller ďŹ rst called a New Zealand landline and then called from a New Zealand landline to the applicable overseas destination. Yabba is not liable for any charges imposed on calls made to access Yabba Services such as charges imposed by hotels, motels, mobile carriers, mobile roaming or payphones and cannot guarantee international service. 0900, 0800, 018, 0161, 059 calls and international equivalents cannot be made with Yabba. 24hr Customer Services call 0800 492 222 within NZ, or press 0 in the calling card option menu.

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Fiordland Fantasy

Under the Stars

What

What

The Hollyford Track three-day guided

Earth & Sky Stargazing Tour, a guided trip

wilderness walk, a magical 56km journey

around the heavens from atop Mt John,

through the Fiordland’s Hollyford Valley.

Tekapo, where observatory telescopes probe

Mountains, ancient rainforest, pristine

planets, stars and distant galaxies through

rivers, lakes and waterfalls, rugged beaches

unsullied skies. Two hours of wonder with

– and great catering. The flight out from

help from knowledgeable guides and big

Martins Bay to Milford Sound is stunning.

telescopes. Magic.

Where & When

Where & When

The Hollyford Valley is in Fiordland

Lake Tekapo, Mackenzie District, South

National Park. Trips leave from Queenstown

Island. Every evening after dark, weather

and Te Anau between October and April.

permitting; times depend on time of year.

More Info

More Info

See www.hollyfordtrack.com

See www.earthandsky.co.nz

or ph. 0800 832 226.

or ph. 03 680 6960

Photo: SATC

Adelaide Hills What Rolling hills, picturesque towns and villages, funky shops, country-cottage accommodation, excellent food and some great wineries, including Petaluma (try lunch at their famous Bridgewater Mill restaurant).

Where & When Forty minutes’ drive from Adelaide International Airport (Air New Zealand has direct flights from Auckland) or 20 minutes from the city. Visit all year round, though spring and autumn are probably best times.

More Info www.southaustralia.com

… a few of our favourite things.


Tastes of Central What Small-group tours of Central Otago wineries with Appellation Central Wine Tours. Take the boutique half-day tour or full-day Gourmet affair that includes a platter lunch at a winery. Great scenery, fab wines (especially the Pinots), interesting stories and people.

Where & When Tours depart Queenstown year-round and include pickup from accommodation. Bookings recommended at least two weeks ahead.

More Info See www.appellationcentral.co.nz or ph. 03 442 0246.

Cruise the Bay What Fullers Great Sights overnight cruise through the sheltered waters of the Bay of Islands aboard MV Ipipiri, a 44m catamaran with 30 ocean-view cabins and 70-seat restaurant. Blob out on deck or launch a sea kayak from the stern. Spend the night at anchor in a secluded bay and watch the galaxies turn.

When & Where Coach from Auckland to Paihia or self-drive. Ipipiri departs Opua at

More Info See www.overnightcruise.co.nz or ph. 0800 653 339

THE BEST WEEKENDS & SHORT BREAKS [PAGE 59]

1.30pm. Season: Sept 1-May 31.


Read Hand Me Down World By Lloyd Jones (Penguin, $40) I picked up this book with some trepidation. How could Lloyd Jones possibly match the success of Mr Pip? I shouldn’t have worried: Hand Me Down World is totally different – and totally engrossing. The book chronicles an African woman’s desperate search for her child. Her story is largely revealed through police reports of a disparate group with whom she comes into contact before, during and after her journey from North Africa to Berlin. Through these multiple but limited perspectives, a picture is built up of a woman whose single-minded search and her need for help in achieving her ends sets up some intriguing encounters. In the end, we can only admire the courage of the mother and the skill of the author. – Virginia Williams

The Confession By John Grisham (Century, $55) For a good weekend page-turner, you’ll rarely go wrong with a John Grisham book. This one is a bit different. Though still mainly a courtroom drama, it takes on capital punishment and the Texas version of justice. Opening in a small Texas town, it’s the story of a girl’s brutal rape and murder, for which a young black football star is convicted. The only evidence against Donte Drumm is the confession he makes under duress and soon recants. But despite the unflagging efforts of his flamboyant lawyer he’s found guilty and spends nine years on death row. As the clock ticks down towards the execution, an ex-convict tells his story to a Missouri pastor – and the race is on again to save Donte’s life. – Patrick Smith

THE BEST WEEKENDS & SHORT BREAKS [PAGE 60]

Coasters Peter Young, Fisheye Films, with Al Brown (Random House, $49.99) Wellington chef and Kiwi bloke Al Brown smiles amiably from the cover of this attractive book, which precedes a TV One series due for broadcast in 2011. The book was written by Peter Young, producer of Coasters and Hunger For The Wild, which Brown co-hosted with Steve Logan. Here, Al travels the edges of the country, meeting the locals and hearing their stories. From each area he finds the best fresh ingredients and creates a simple recipe. It’s less a cookbook, though, than an intimate guide to our stunning coastal areas. A good one to take away on the Christmas hols. – P.S.


Listen

Watch

Isbells: Isbells

Crazy Heart

Quite a number of former rock musicians are turning their

Jeff Bridges won an Oscar for his role as washed-up country singer

attention to acoustic guitar and discovering their inner Paul

Bad Blake with a stellar performance that lifts this movie out of

Simon. Gaeten Vandewoude, from Belgium, is one of them.

its hokey plot line. We meet Bad outside a nowhere bowling alley

This album – all in beautifully enunciated English – is one

where he’s due to perform. The disastrous, drunken performance

of quiet delights: reflective songs delivered with a kind of

that follows sets the scene for his continuing descent into oblivion.

immediate intimacy and some heartfelt, optimistic celebrations

His redemption comes in the shape of a local reporter (Maggie

of the simple things. The only misstep is calling himself Isbells,

Gyllenhaal) and her young son, who reminds Bad of his own

which might get him mistaken for Jason Isbell, now a solo artist

abandoned boy. The film avoids a happy ending in favour of a

outside his former band, Drive-By Truckers. Otherwise, right on

hopeful one. Colin Farrell plays the modern face of country and

the money. Quietly. – Graham Reid

Robert Duvall is Bad’s bartender mate. The music’s great, too, with original songs voiced by the likes of Buck Owens, Lucinda

Youn Sun Nah: Same Girl

Williams and Waylon Jennings. – P.S.

Not a familiar name, perhaps, but this Korean singer and longtime resident of Paris delivers a fascinating album that

Shutter Island

crosses easily from jazz (she reinvents My Favourite Things

There’s more than a touch of noir about this Scorsese thriller.

with thumb piano) to a list of her favourite fast foods in a

Set in 1954, the film opens with US marshall Teddy Daniels

swinging style. She also takes on Metallica’s Enter Sandman

(Leonardo DiCaprio) and his partner Chuck (Mark Ruffalo) on a

as a dramatic ballad and has some impressive scat singing

ferry to Shutter Island to investigate the disappearance of a patient

on the exotic Breakfast In Baghdad. The ballads and slower,

from a hospital for the criminally insane. Ominous music suggests

more considered songs work the best, but this is a fascinating

the island is not a place we’d want to visit and this impression

journey and hers is a name you might want to remember. – G.R.

is quickly confirmed when Teddy and Chuck arrive. It would be reality is a movable feast and Teddy’s on the menu! – P.S.

Even more unfamiliar names, but this trumpet, piano and drum

Lemon Tree

trio – on the estimable European label ECM, which specialises

This little-known gem by Israeli director Eran Riklis makes its point

in emotionally cool jazz – deliver an impressive line in medita-

quietly but powerfully. Based on a true story, it tells of a Palestinian

tive mood music that steps lightly between the most refined

widow, Salma (Hiam Abbass), who lives alone on the Israel-West

Miles Davis, contemporary classical and ambient world music.

Bank border. When the Israeli defence minister builds a house on

In places Jorgensen’s trumpet sounds strangely discordant as it

the other side of the Green Line, his bodyguards decide Salma’s

conjures up a primitive horn (the Baltic folk song Tuuin Tuuin)

lemon grove poses a terrorist threat and must be razed. But Salma’s

and Mikkonen’s piano playing can be oceanic in its surges, but

family has lived there for generations. She finds a lawyer (Ali

the overall impression is of a remote, romantically frosty Europe

Suliman) and despite overwhelming odds they take her case all the

outside the window in some eternal twilight. – G.R.

way to Israel’s Supreme Court. Abbass is riveting in a role that won her numerous awards. Hebrew and Arabic dialogue with subtitles. – P.S.

These movies are available to rent online at www.fatso.co.nz

THE BEST WEEKENDS & SHORT BREAKS [PAGE 61]

criminal to give away the plot from here on in; suffice to say that

Jorgensen, Mikkonen, Ounaskari: Kuara, Psalms And Folk Songs


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SUMMER B AY O F I S L A N D S , D A R G A V I L L E , D O2U0B1 T0 L E S S B AAY, F A R - N O R T H , H O K I A N G A , K A I TA I A , K E R I K E R I , M A N G AW H A I , PA I H I A , R U S S E L L , WA I P U , WA I P U C O V E , W H A N G A R E I , B AY O F I S L A N D S , D A R G A V I L L E , D O U B T L E S S B AY, F A R - N O R T H , H O K I A N G A , K A I TA I A , K E R I K E R I , M A N G AW H A I , PA I H I A , R U S S E L L , WA I P U , W A I P U C O V E , W H A N G A R E I , A U C K L A N D , A U C K L A N D C I T Y, A U C K L A N D E A S T, A U C K L A N D S O U T H , A U C K L A N D W E S T, N O R T H S H O R E , B AY O F P L E N T Y, K AT I K AT I , M O U N T M A U N G A N U I , T A U R A N G A , W A I H I , W A I H I B E A C H , W H A K AT A N E , R O T O R U A , G I S B O R N E , O P O T I K I , WA I R O A , N A P I E R , H A S T I N G S , H AV E L O C K N O RT H , WA I P U K U R A U , W E L L I N G T O N , C A RT E RT O N , G R E Y T O W N , P O R I R U A , U P P E R H U T T, L O W E R H U T T, P A R A P A R A U M U , W A I K A N A E , L E V I N , M A S T E R T O N , M A RT I N B O R O U G H , D A N N E V I R K E , F O X T O N , PA L M E R S T O N N O RT H , TA I H A P E , F E I L D I N G , N E W P LY M O U T H , H A W E R A , S T R AT F O R D , W A N G A N U I , T A U M A R U N U I , T A U P O , T U R A N G I , O H A K U N E , T O N G A R I R O N AT I O N A L P A R K , C A M B R I D G E , H A M I L T O N , Lodgings K A W H I A , | MAttractions AATT A M AATT A ,| ODestinations T O R O H A N G| APackages , T E AWA M U T U , WA I T O M O C AV E S , T E K U I T I , T O K O R O A , A B E L T A S M A N , B L E N H E I M , G O L D E N B AY, M O T U E K A , T, F R A N Z J O S E F G L A C I E R , F O X - G L A C I E R , M U R C H I S O N , P I C T O N , W E S T C O A S T, G R E Y M O U T H , H A A S TT,, H O K I T I K A , K A R A M E A , P U N A K A I K I , R E E F T O N , W E S T P O R T, C A N T E R B U R Y, A K A R O A , A O R A K I / M T C O O K , A S H B U R T O N , C H R I S T C H U R C H , HANMER SPRINGS, KAIKOURA, LAKE TEKAPO, METHVEN, RAKAIA, TIMARU, T W I Z E L , W A I M AT E , S O U T H E R N L A K E S , A R R O W T O W N , Q U E E N S T O W N , T E A N A U , W A N A K A , C E N T R A L O T A G O , A L E X A N D R A , C LY D E , C R O M W E L L , N A S E B Y, Y O M A R A M A , R A N F U R LY, R O X B U R G H , B AY O F I S L A N D S , D A R G A V I L L E , D O U B T L E S S A FA R - N O RT H , H O K I A N G A , K A I TA I A , K E R I K E R I , M A N G AW H A I , PA I H I A , B AY, R U S S E L L , W A I P U , W A I P U C O V E , W H A N G A R E I , B AY O F I S L A N D S , D A R G A V I L L E , D O U B T L E S S B AY, F A R - N O R T H , H O K I A N G A , K A I T A I A , K E R I K E R I , M A N G A W H A I , PA I H I A , R U S S E L L , WA I P U , WA I P U C O V E , W H A N G A R E I , A U C K L A N D , A U C K L A N D C I T Y, A U C K L A N D E A S T, A U C K L A N D S O U T H , A U C K L A N D W E S T, N O R T H S H O R E , B AY O F P L E N T Y, K AT I K AT I , M O U N T M A U N G A N U I , T A U R A N G A , W A I H I , W A I H I B E A C H , W H A K AT A N E , R O T O R U A , G I S B O R N E , O P O T I K I , W A I R O A , N A P I E R , H A S T I N G S , H AV E L O C K N O RT H , WA I P U K U R A U , W E L L I N G T O N , C A RT E RT O N , G R E Y T O W N , P O R I R U A , U P P E R H U T T, L O W E R H U T T, P A R A P A R A U M U , W A I K A N A E , LEVIN, MASTERTON, MARTINBOROUGH, DANNEVIRKE, FOXTON, PALMERSTON AT F O R D , N O R T H , T A I H A P E , F E I L D I N G , N E W P LY M O U T H , H A W E R A , S T R AT W A N G A N U I , T A U M A R U N U I , T A U P O , T U R A N G I , O H A K U N E , T O N G A R I R O N AATT I O N A L A T A M AT ATA , O T O R O H A N G A , T E P A R K , C A M B R I D G E , H A M I L T O N , K A W H I A , M AT AWA M U T U , WA I T O M O C AV E S , T E K U I T I , T O K O R O A , A B E L TA S M A N , B L E N H E I M , A Y , M O T U E K A , M U R C H I S O N , P I C T O N , W E S T C O A S T, F R A N Z J O S E F G O L D E N B AY, G L A C I E R , F O X - G L A C I E R , G R E Y M O U T H , H A A S T, H O K I T I K A , K A R A M E A , P U N A K A I K I , R E E F T O N , W E S T P O R T, C A N T E R B U R Y, A K A R O A , A O R A K I / M T C O O K , A S H B U R T O N , CHRISTCHURCH, HANMER SPRINGS, KAIKOURA, LAKE TEKAPO, METHVEN, R A K A I A , T I M A R U , T W I Z E L , W A I M AT E , S O U T H E R N L A K E S , A R R O W T O W N , Q U E E N S T O W N , T E A N A U , W A N A K A , C E N T R A L O T A G O , A L E X A N D R A , C LY D E , C R O M W E L L , N A S E B Y, O M A R A M A , R A N F U R LY, R O X B U R G H

lounge LEISURE

Come Com e & join jo in us in our VIP VI P sele s selections electi ctions ons


MULTI-DAY WILDERNESS RAFTING EXPERIENCE QUEENSTOWN THE LANDSBOROUGH WILDERNESS EXPERIENCE IS A FULLY GUIDED AND CATERED THREE-DAY RAFTING ADVENTURE ON THE LANDSBOROUGH RIVER OPERATED BY QUEENSTOWN RAFTING, ONE OF THE COUNTRY’S MOST RESPECTED RAFTING AND ADVENTURE ACTIVITY COMPANIES. Paddle your way through the beautiful, World Heritage-listed Landsborough Valley with an experienced guide, gliding past hanging glaciers, magnificent 3,000-metre mountains and dense rainforests. There will be plenty of time to explore the pristine area or simply relax around the campfire with your rafting companions at our well-appointed riverside camps. The Landsborough Wilderness Experience is a great combination of tranquil and white-water rafting, fabulous scenery, hiking and canyoning, delicious four-course gourmet meals and comfortable tented accommodation. All you require is a sense of adventure, a love of the great outdoors – and a willingness to be well cared for. This adventure is open to people of average fitness 15 years and over.

THE BEST WEEKENDS & SHORT BREAKS [PAGE 64]

HIGHLIGHTS: > Departs every Friday during summer > No experience necessary

C O N TA C T D E TA I L S : P

03 442 9792

FREEPHONE

0800 RAFTING

E

info@queenstownrafting.co.nz

W

www.queenstownrafting.co.nz


INTERISLANDER COOK STRAIT FERRIES

INTERISLANDER TRAVELS BETWEEN THE NORTH AND SOUTH ISLANDS AND IS ONE OF THE MOST SPECTACULAR SHORT CRUISES IN THE WORLD.

C O N TA C T D E TA I L S :

With 92km of breathtaking views, the three-hour journey between Wellington and Picton

P

0800 802 802

really is one of New Zealand’s most iconic tourism activities.

W

www.interislander.co.nz

Interislander operates three ships, the Kaitaki, Arahura and Aratere, for you and your vehicle. We have up to 11 sailings a day, so you’ll always have a wide choice of travel times. Apart from the fantastic views, Interislander gives you plenty to see and do on board and our friendly staff are committed to making your journey enjoyable. With a range of cafés and bars onboard, you can enjoy renowned wines and beers, have an award-winning coffee and a light snack or hearty meal. Spectacular scenery and great service: it’s easy to see why the USA’s Wine Spectator

THE BEST WEEKENDS & SHORT BREAKS [PAGE 65]

magazine described Interislander as “one of the most beautiful ferry rides in the world”.


S TA M F O R D PET’S PACKAGE FOR BUSY PET OWNERS, CO-ORDINATING ACCOMMODATION CAN BE A LOGISTICAL NIGHTMARE. NOT ANY MORE, WHEN YOU STAY AT STAMFORD PLAZA AUCKLAND. We’ve teamed up with Pets In The City – Auckland’s only Pet Hotel & Day Spa and made things a whole lot easier for you and your pets! Simply make an advance booking, tell us a little about your pet and on arrival and check-in, we’ll make sure your best friend is comfortable in the “Fetchmobile” and safely on their way to be pampered for the duration of your stay.

C O N TA C T D E TA I L S :

THE BEST WEEKENDS & SHORT BREAKS [PAGE 66]

On check-out, your pet will be waiting for you. So next time you’re staying with us for business or pleasure, don’t stress about your pets, just bring them along

P

09 912 3006

and you can all relax!

W

www.stamford.com.au/spak/


POLYNESIAN SPA ROTORUA

POLYNESIAN SPA, OVERLOOKING LAKE ROTORUA, IS THE PLACE TO RELAX IN A WONDERFUL ARRAY OF HOT MINERAL SPRING POOLS AND INDULGE IN SUMPTUOUS SPA THERAPIES. EXPERIENCE ROTORUA’S FAMOUS

C O N TA C T D E TA I L S :

GEOTHERMAL WATERS WHILE YOU UNWIND AT THIS BEAUTIFUL SPA. Four unique bathing areas are available to suit your requirements – deluxe, adult, private or family.

P

07 348 1328

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www.polynesianspa.co.nz

curative properties. The Lake Spa Retreat comprises 10 spa therapy rooms. Two new dual spa therapy rooms offer a special spa therapy experience with your partner or friend. Indulgent therapies feature Rotorua mud and other natural ingredients. Exfoliations, polishes, replenishments, facials and massages – all delivered at the hands of excellent therapists – make this a truly unforgettable experience. Before your spa therapy you’ll soak your stresses away in the deluxe Lake Spa pools (an integral part of every spa therapy). What a way to spend the day! Conde Naste Traveller has named Polynesian Spa among the top 10 thermal spas in the world for five out of the last seven years.

THE BEST WEEKENDS & SHORT BREAKS [PAGE 67]

The pools are spring-fed with soothing hot alkaline water and hot acidic water, renowned for its


NORFOLK ISLAND HOLIDAY PARADISE WELCOME TO OUR WORLD. A WORLD IN WHICH YOU CAN BE AS LAIDBACK OR BUSY AS YOU WANT. WHERE THE ONLY FAST FOOD IS PULLED FRESH FROM SOIL OR SEA. WHERE THERE ARE NO TRAFFIC LIGHTS. WHERE YOU CAN STILL PARK YOUR CAR WITH THE KEYS IN THE IGNITION.

Ours is an island of unspoiled natural beauty and we are a unique people, descendants of the famous Bounty mutineers. Our World Heritage-listed Georgian buildings are still in daily use. We speak our own special language and will welcome you in our own unique way. A perfect subtropical climate, our summer season is between November and May. Activities include golf, fishing, diving, sea-kayaking, bushwalking,

HIGHLIGHTS: > Our closest overseas neighbour > Steeped in history > Wide choice of accommodation options > Activities for all ages

history and cultural experiences. There are many dining options. Norfolk Island is two hours by Air New Zealand from Auckland.

THE BEST WEEKENDS & SHORT BREAKS [PAGE 68]

C O N TA C T D E TA I L S : P

0800 359 437

E

sales@hoganreps.co.nz

W

www.theworldofnorfolk.co.nz


GLOWWORM CAVES WAITOMO

THE NEW WAITOMO CAVES VISITOR CENTRE OFFERS A VARIETY OF FACILITIES AND EXPERIENCES TO WAITOMO VISITORS: A RESTAURANT ON TWO LEVELS, A 50-SEAT CAFÉ, A EMOTIONALLY CONNECTING JOURNEY OF WAITOMO AND ITS PEOPLE.

C O N TA C T D E TA I L S : The new complex serves as a fabulous access point to the stunning Waitomo Glowworm Caves experience – including the boat ride under a starry sky of glowworms – the

P

0800 456 922

spectacular and unique Ruakuri Cave, with its innovative spiral entrance, and Aranui

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www.waitomo.com

Cave with its stunning cave formations. For the more adventurous, The Legendary Black Water Rafting Company offers the Black Abyss, the ultimate adrenalin-pumping caving adventure, and the original subterranean adventure with Black Labyrinth.

THE BEST WEEKENDS & SHORT BREAKS [PAGE 69]

GIFT SHOP FEATURING LOCAL ARTISTS AND A THEATRE WHERE VIEWERS ARE TAKEN ON AN


H2-OHH! CENTRAL NORTH ISLAND

LIKE

ADVENTURE?

DON’T

MIND

GETTING WET (WELL, SOAKED)? THIS JET-BOATING AND RAFTING COMBO IS WHITEWATER ADVENTURE THAT’S SPLASHTASTIC! DASH TO THE BASE OF THE SPECTACULAR HUKA FALLS ONBOARD A TWIN-ENGINED V6 JETBOAT. PLAY IN THE TAIL OF THE MIGHTY HUKA FALLS AND SLIDE PAST CLIFFS AND TREES AT AN AMAZING 80KM/H. THEN GET READY FOR HUKAFALLS JET’S TRADEMARK 360-DEGREE SPINS, LEAVING YOU WITH A BEAMING SMILE AND A RACING HEART.

We’ll then transfer you so you can continue your whitewater adventure by paddling and splashing your way along the Tongariro River with Tongariro River Rafting, enjoying a rafting experience that combines the heart-pumping action of more than 60 rapids but with sufficient lower-grade water so that you can enjoy the splendid scenery and wildlife. The total trip time is around seven hours, but you can complete it over two consecutive days if you prefer. We’ll also pick you up and drop you back to your

THE BEST WEEKENDS & SHORT BREAKS [PAGE 70]

accommodation.

C O N TA C T D E TA I L S : P W

0800 10 10 24 www.hukafallsjet.com www.trr.co.nz


OFF ROAD NZ ROTORUA

IT’S THE BEST KART-RACING EXPERIENCE IN AUSTRALASIA. Off Road NZ’s “Driven By Adventure” tagline certainly applies to the company’s newest thrill ride, Raceline Karting, which was officially launched in August. Drivers will be amazed at the speed of the karts. The anticipation of suiting up and pulling on a helmet is soon followed by the squeal of tyres, G-forces in the numerous hairpin bends and the sensation of ground rush at speeds up to 100km/h on the 1.2km track. It all makes Raceline Karting an adrenalin buzz like no other. The state-of-the-art karts were especially imported from France and, as far as we know, no one else in Australasia offers a hire-karting experience of this quality. The 390cc 4-stroke Sodi karts, combined with New Zealand’s newest and longest A-rated kart track, the Rotorua International KartSport Raceway, ensures that this is an experience

C O N TA C T D E TA I L S : P

07 332 5748

E

sandra@offroadnz.co.nz

W

www.offroadnz.co.nz

THE BEST WEEKENDS & SHORT BREAKS [PAGE 71]

not to be missed.


GLACIER GUIDES FRANZ JOSEF, WESTLAND

THE BEST WEEKENDS & SHORT BREAKS [PAGE 72]

THIS IS YOUR OPPORTUNITY TO VISIT OUR WORLD-RENOWNED GLACIER BEFORE IT DISAPPEARS. We invite you to experience one of the most unique activities New Zealand has to offer: a guided trip onto the majestic Franz Josef Glacier. Franz Josef Glacier Guides is an internationally recognised guiding operation that prides itself on providing the most incredible glacier experience. We make a clear commitment to our visitors that our trip is the most spectacular and rewarding available. Walking up into the glacier terrain with your experienced guide is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. We have a range of trips to suit every ability, from a valley walk to half and full-day options, a heli-hike and, for the more adventurous, ice climbing. There’s a trip for almost everyone. After a day’s adventure on the Franz Josef Glacier, there is no better reward than to revive body, soul and mind at the Glacier Hot Pools, also located in the township of Franz Josef.

C O N TA C T D E TA I L S : P

0800 484 337

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www.franzjosefglacier.com


GLACIER HOT POOLS FRANZ JOSEF, WESTLAND

NESTLED IN LUSH RAINFOREST, GLACIER HOT POOLS INVITES YOU TO LEAVE YOUR DAY-TO-DAY

WORRIES

BEHIND

AND

SUBMERGE YOURSELF IN DELICIOUSLY WARM WATER. Glacier Hot Pools is a haven of natural tranquility and the perfect way to relax after exploring the rugged West Coast of the South Island. Three invitingly warm main pools await, or you can opt for one of three secluded private pools; perfect for families or couples. Massage facilities enhance the experience. Each pool is surrounded by native bush and fed with pure local glacier water. Captivating birds, flora and fauna surround you and the distinct call of the kereru (wood pigeon) is never far away. As day gives way to night, an evening under the stars at Glacier Hot Pools, sheltered by nature’s leafy canopy and lulled by the sound of gently cascading water, is a truly enchanting, reviving, unforgettable experience.

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0800 044 044

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www.glacierhotpools.co.nz THE BEST WEEKENDS & SHORT BREAKS [PAGE 73]

C O N TA C T D E TA I L S :


C L E A RV I E W L O D G E CHRISTCHURCH PERFECT FOR AN INTIMATE WEEKEND OR SHORT BREAK, AT CLEARVIEW LODGE YOU’LL WAKE TO THE PEACEFUL SONG OF OUR BELLBIRDS.

READER SPECIAL: See Christchurch by day and then enjoy a romantic spa under the stars, or nestle by a cosy fire with a glass of our estate Pinot Noir or port at the lodge. Later, adjourn to a candlelit bubble bath in the privacy of your ensuite bathroom. If you prefer, sip our Pinot Noir as you tour the vineyard or gardens. Perhaps you’d just like to relax under the sun umbrella and nibble delicious

Stay two nights and enjoy a complimentary round of golf at Clearwater. Or stay three nights and enjoy a complimentary guided tour of the Waipara Valley vineyards.

home-grown treats? If you enjoy golf, the excellent Clearwater course is right next door. If wine-tasting appeals, we can have you picked up from the lodge and taken to the Waipara Valley for cellar-door tastings before returning to Clearview Lodge to enjoy our own Clements Estate wines. As lodge hosts with only three guest rooms, we assure you of personal

THE BEST WEEKENDS & SHORT BREAKS [PAGE 74]

service and privacy.

C O N TA C T D E TA I L S : P

03 539 5797

W

www.clearviewlodge.com


do it all!” here’s time to “T it k ea br nce lled weekend joy the abunda en ked, nature-fi d ac ay an -p B e ity ck th tiv ba t in ac st si For an ernight cruise cks and ely you can ju tter than this ov observation de t; Alternativ be s h oa k’ uc eb oc m us R t e ho ge t t th doesn’ land’s bigges viewed from ock is New Zea for of nature R t en he sunset. T nm s. ro nd vi la of Is in the glorious stable en k d in dr an a y y el jo m en warm, ho enough for es she offers a 36, she’s big r fo us and includ ty ci pa a ca area is spacio g sense of in a liv t irs ge ta cruising. With gh ns fir w enou open e. The Rock’s do e, piano and ps but small bl ou ta gr ol d po an , ge families area, loun r onboard a bar, dining eal platform fo experience. id e e th th is om fr ck y intimac open de all cabins have Outside, the ng). Upstairs hi fis g, tin oo t sh per deck. activities (targe ing onto the up en op s or do d sea views an ok up your d affairs – co xe la re e ar t kfas rbie and share ner and brea one!) on the ba e Bay’s 144 Din t th go of ve er u’ rg yo la p, as the day (if elling in a grou oring one of esh catch of the pl fr av tr ex er er th as th ga l he el to w W . ts As e opportunity e moment ith other gues , you’ll have th el at home th snorkel stories w d fe ll an u’ s ef yo re n, e islands on foot , to kayak th or on your ow e buffet dinner game of a family a in rt pa seafood for th ke rd. aps to ta you step aboa aters, or perh the pristine w beach cricket.

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classifieds Promote your weekend accommodation… to an audience of 49 042* influential Auckland households Contact Travis Field on 09 366 6879, 021 47 4447 or email travis@weekendmagazine.co.nz *New Zealand Audit Bureau of Circulation figures for Weekend Magazine circulation

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ocean of fun! Saturday 19th March, 2011 Havelock Domain, 10am – 6pm Kowhai Glen, our luxurious accommodation for two. Crafted from natural materials and offering an ecofriendly environment, Kowhai Glen is a place for rest, relaxation and rejuvenation.

Topp Twins The Beat Girls NIWA Kidzone King Salmon Cooking marquee - demos with Brett McGregor

5 Duck Creek Rd, Warkwoth | Ph +64 9 425 7970 www.kowhaiglen.co.nz | info@kowhaiglen.co.nz

THE BEST WEEKENDS & SHORT BREAKS [PAGE 76]

To book: 0800 224 224 or www.tdtasman.co.nz www.havelockmusselfestival.co.nz

Quest on Cintra Lane serviced apartments property is designed to offer quality accommodation in Auckland’s CBD – ideal for corporate or leisure. Just minutes from all major landmarks and attractions and venues. Make a booking now on www.questcintra.co.nz Contact us at: 0064 9 3796288 or email to: host@questcintra.co.nz


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THE BEST WEEKENDS & SHORT BREAKS [PAGE 77]

ph: 07 825 8838 mob: 027 340 9577

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Kiwi Ki i i Retreat R

LAUNCHES, EVENTS AND AMBIENT MARKETING 1 Queen Street, opposite the ferry building, Auckland waterfront email: mike@nztc.co.nz phone: 021 912 455

Come taste our Award winning wines

Join us for the Port Charles Paua Festival! 23 Oct 2010

Cellar door open 7 days 10am – 5pm

Relax & Unwind

1829 Maraekakho Road Bridge Pa, Hastings

Accommodation \ Café \ Bar \ Restaurant \ Venue 1299 Port Charles Road, RD 4 Coromandel

FREEPHONE within NZ: 0800 TANGIARO

www.kiwiretreat.co.nz

Haunted Attraction Scream Park

Ph +64 6 879 6752


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Hyperion Heights Luxury Country Cottage Matakana

Luxury . comfort . restful views Treat yourself in Matakana Coast Wine Country 569 Whitmore Road, Matakana Ph: 09 422 9375 www.hyperionheights.co.nz

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fridge list At a loose end? Consult this handy checklist of things to do and see around Auckland‌ 360 Discovery to Motuihe

Explore NZ

Lilliput

SeaLink

Island or Coromandel

www.sailnz.co.nz

www.lilliput-farm-park.co.nz

www.sealink.co.nz

www.360discovery.co.nz

Ph 359 5987

Ph 07 378 2114

Ph 0800 732 546

Ph 0800 360 3472

Extreme 4WD Adventures

Mini Golf

Sky Jump

Auckland Art Gallery

www.extreme4wd.co.nz

www.adventuregolf.co.nz

www.skyjump.co.nz

www.aucklandartgallery.govt.nz

Ph 0800 493238

Ph 275 7531

Ph 0800 759 586

Ph 379 1349

Fullers Ferry to Devonport

MOTAT

Sky Tower

Auckland Bridge Climb

www.devonporttours.co.nz

www.motat.org.nz

www.skycityauckland.co.nz

www.aucklandbridgeclimb.co.nz

Ph 367 9111

Ph 0800 668 286

Ph 363 6000

Ph 0800 462 5462

Fullers to Motutapu

Mt Albert Aquatic Centre

Sky Walk

Auckland Luge

& Rangitoto Islands

www.clmnz.co.nz/mtalbert/

www.skywalk.co.nz

www.aucklandluge.co.nz

www.fullers.co.nz

Ph 815 7001

Ph 0800 75 9925

Ph 0800 773 366

Ph 367 9111

Paradice Ice-skating

Snow Planet

Auckland Museum

Fullers to Waiheke Island

www.paradice.co.nz

www.snowplanet.co.nz

Ph 309 0443

www.fullers.co.nz

Botany: 273 2999

Ph 427 0044

www.aucklandmuseum.com

Ph 367 9111

Avondale: 828 38 00

Auckland Regional Council

Glenbrook Vintage Railway

Parakai Springs Aquatic Park

www.stardome.org.nz

Botanical Gardens

www.railfan.org.nz

www.parakaisprings.com

Ph 624 1246

www.aucklandbotanic

Ph 09 625 4058

Ph 09 420 8998

Helilink

Parnell Pools and Baths

www.adventuregolf.co.nz

www.helilink.co.nz

Ph 373 3561

Ph 275 7531

Ph 0800 435 454

www.clmnz.co.nz/parnellbaths/

Howick Historical Village

Rainbows End

treeadventures.co.nz

www.fencible.org.nz

www.rainbowsend.co.nz

Ph 0800 827 926

Ph 576 9506

Ph 262 2030

Stardome Observatory

Treasure Island Adventure Golf

gardens.co.nz

Ph 267 1457

Butterfly Creek

Tree Adventures

www.butterflycreek.co.nz

Ph 09 275 8880

Clip n Climb

Ph 422 6021

www.clipnclimb.co.nz

THE BEST WEEKENDS & SHORT BREAKS [PAGE 80]

Ph 630 6040

Eden Garden www.edengarden.co.nz

Ph 688395

Kelly Tarltons

Waiwera Hot Pools www.waiwera.co.nz

www.kellytarltons.co.nz

Rock Climbing

Ph 09 528 0603

www.extremeedge.co.nz

Ph 574 5677

Ph 0800 924 9372


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