ISSUE 35 AUTUMN 2011
ISSUE 35
T H E
G U I D E
T O
N E W
Z E A L A N D
PEOPLE MEDIA GROUP
HIRE CHEAP CAMPER BREEZER HIRE
$34
Click this QR code for more than $2000 worth of discounts and coupons also available inside!
per day*
Look inside for a $5 taxi disc ount
Auckland’s #1 Taxi co mpany Find our de dicated ra nk at the airp ort
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
10% off
NATIONAL DISCOUNTS
NATIONAL
10% off
NATIONAL
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
NATIONAL
NATIONAL
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
CHEAP HIRE
Free Day
"Quote Arrivals book Free" Call free 0800 567 325
Book 7 and get the 8th day FREE.
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
NATIONAL
25% OFF
10% off Interislander Bookings Enter the promo code Arrival 3 in the promo code box on the payment details when you make a booking on www.interislander.co.nz and present this voucher on check in. Valid until 30 June 2011.
SEE PAGES 14-29
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
NATIONAL
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
free TV
NATIONAL
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
see page 20 for details. Conditions apply.
WE WONT BE BEATEN ON PRICE�
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
Waitomo Glowworm Caves & Ruakuri Caves Combo Pass when you present this voucher & Explore More Key tag ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
NORTHLAND
10% off
free TV
NORTHLAND Book your train journey by calling freephone 0800 872 467 ARRIVAL ARRIVAL MAGAZINE MAGAZINE
NORTHLAND
FREE drink
DISCOUNTS
Free TV for length of hire
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
NORTHLAND
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
NORTHLAND
FREE KEYRING FREE KEYRING
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
NORTHLAND
TWIN TOUR DISCOUNT
Free drink voucher when booking this unique marine mammal experience
Free keyring when booking the Cape Reinga via 90 mile Beach adventure
Present for a free Keyring when booking Tour on Otehei Bay.
Dolphin Discoveries and Dune Rider Combo. Best Discount Guarnteed on presentation of this voucher
Valid until 31/7/2011. Direct Bookings only.
Valid until 31/7/2011. Direct Bookings only.
Valid until 31/7/2011. Direct Bookings only.
Valid until 31/7/2011. Direct Bookings only.
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
AUCKLAND
AUCKLAND
Kauri Museum 10% off applicable rates on admission
SEE PAGES 30-33
Free TV for length of hire
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
AUCKLAND
FREE $25 PHOTO
FREE $25 PHOTO
Free photo souvenir $25 value
Free photo souvenir $25 value
Present this voucher to receive the stated discount.
Present this voucher to receive the stated discount.
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
NORTHLAND
FREE lunch
Free lunch when booking a dive. Freephone: 0800 288 882 ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
AUCKLAND
Terms and Conditions: Not available in conjunction with any other offer. Only while productor service available. Terms and conditions may change without notice. Some offers have expiry dates. Not redeemable for cash. Some offers not available during school holidays or public holidays. Some offers for certain days only. Offers only apply when booked direct. Other specific operator conditions may apply. Some offers are limited to one per voucher holder. ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
AUCKLAND
10% off
10% off
10% off a Family Harbour Cruise ticket or Family rtn trip to Rangitoto Island
10% off adult rtn to Waiheke Island or adult 360 Harbour Discovery Cruise
& WAIHEKE ISLAND DISCOUNTS SEE PAGES 35-45
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
AUCKLAND
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
AUCKLAND
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AUCKLAND
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AUCKLAND
$5 off
10% off
10% off
$5 off entry, conditions apply*
$5 off entry, conditions apply*
Present this voucher to receive the stated discount. Cannot be used in conjunction with any other Ice Bar promotional offer, Not redeemable for cash. Bookings recommended.
Present this voucher to receive the stated discount. Cannot be used in conjunction with any other Ice Bar promotional offer, Not redeemable for cash. Bookings recommended.
10% off for any purchase over $10.00.
10% off for any purchase over $10.00.
Terms & Conditions - one coupon per transaction - accept credit card over $20 transaction value - redeemable at offline retail store only
Terms & Conditions - one coupon per transaction - accept credit card over $20 transaction value - redeemable at offline retail store only
$5 off
GO GET LOST IN NZ
Deals available for car hire bookings and travel between April and June 2011
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AUCKLAND
10% OFF Present for 10% off our sailing and dining cruises in 'The City of Sails' Valid until 31/7/2011. Direct Bookings only.
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
AUCKLAND
FREE LUNCH
Present for a free viaduct restaurant lunch voucher Valid until 31/7/2011. Direct Bookings only.
Book 7 days car hire and get the 8th day
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Waitomo Glowworm Caves and Ruakuri Caves Combo
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The Legendary Black Water Rafting Co Black Abyss or Black Labyrinth
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For more details, check out our website or give us a call.
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
AUCKLAND
FREE LUNCH
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
AUCKLAND
$30 OFF
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
AUCKLAND
2 FOR 1
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
AUCKLAND
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
2 FOR 1
10% off
2 for 1 glass of selected wine or beer in Sky Lounge Café & Bar, Sky Tower
Present for a free viaduct restaurant lunch voucher Valid until 31/7/2011. Direct Bookings only..
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
AUCKLAND
Save $30 off the normal adult price of your SkyJump
2 for 1 Autumn Special
Direct bookings only. Website booking code ARRIVAL.
Direct bookings only. Discount off adult prices. Website booking code ARRIVAL.
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE MAGAZINE ARRIVAL
AUCKLAND
10% off $65 Room 10% off one full paying adult admission. Conditions apply. Direct bookings only. Promo Code: Arrival Magz ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
WAIKATO
In the heart of the City for a super low rate of $65 20 Wyndham St, Auckland City. Ph: (09) 308 9140 Subject to availability. ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
WAIKATO
ARRIVALMAGAZINE MAGAZINE ARRIVAL
AUCKLAND
10% off
WAIKATO
Upon presentation of this coupon. Excludes F&B and sale items. Cannot be used in conjunction with any other special offers. Valid until 30/06/11
WAITOMO
$10 off $10 discount off a scheduled cruise ticket when you present this coupon
WAIKATO
Present this voucher for your free wine tasting valued at $10 Ph 09 372 9050 ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
AUCKLAND
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
$10 off
The Lord of the Rings Tour – Hotel Pickup 8.30am Phone 09 410 6561 ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
WAIHEKE ISLAND
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
10% off at Sky Tower Gift Shop
Offer valid until 30 June 2011, subject to availability. One offer per coupon per person. Only original coupons will be accepted and cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer. R18 for the service of alcohol.
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
AUCKLAND
DISCOUNTS SEE PAGES 48-55
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
WAIKATO
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
WAIKATO
20% off
20% off
20% off
20% off
10% off
10% off
20% off accommodation when you book a tour with us
20% off accommodation when you book a tour with us
10% OFF Triple Cave Combo, Waitomo Glowworm Caves, Ruakuri Cave & Aranui Cave
Must be booked 12 hours prior.See page 52.
20% discount on presentation of coupon
10% Off The Legendary Black Water Rafting Company, Black Labyrinth Tour
Must be booked 12 hours prior. See page 52.
20% discount on presentation of coupon
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
WAITAKO
20% off
Early bird booking special Conditions apply see page 51,53,54 for details.
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
ROTORUA
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
WAIKATO
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
free drink
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
ROTORUA
10% off
10% off deluxe Lake Spa bathing ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
ROTORUA
10% off
10% off admission ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
TAUPO
10% off 10% off per person on Taupo’s most thrilling jet boat ride by nature
$6 OFF the ZORB Experience OR $3 OFF any single person ZORB ride ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
ROTORUA
10% off
DISCOUNTS
Adult,Child & Family Rates on Sheep Show,Farm Tour & Combo
SEE PAGES 56-65
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
ROTORUA
10% off $6/$3 off 10% off 10% off admission to the Living Maori Village experience
ROTORUA
& ROTORUA
Not available with any other offer. 1 coupon per person. House beer or wine only.
ROTORUA
Direct Bookings Only. Conditions apply.
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
BAY OF PLENTY
Buy 1 drink and get 1 free Te Anga Rd, Waitomo Caves
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
Direct Bookings Only. Conditions apply.
Receive 10% discount on admission ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
ROTORUA
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
ROTORUA
10% off 10% off normal admission price (not valid with any other offer valid to 30 June 2011) ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
ROTORUA
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
ROTORUA
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
ROTORUA
10% off FREE GIFT
10% off Gondola and Luge packages ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
ROTORUA
NZONE The Ultimate Jump Free gift to the value of $15 with your Tandem Skydive ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
ROTORUA
20% off 10% off
10% off
10% off
10% off
Buried Village Rotorua 10% off adult entry
Present for 10% discount
10% discount off all trips
10% off a premier evening Maori culture experience
20% off standard rates
Direct bookings only.
Conditions apply.
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
ROTORUA
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
ROTORUA
$10 off
$10 off
$10 off per person NZ Riverjet Thermal Safari
$10 off per person The Squeeze Experience Jetboating and Hot Springs Canyon Walk
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
TAUPO
FREE $25 photo
Get a free $25 Exit Photo with every Silver Jump Package Purchase See page 69 for details. Direct bookings only.
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
TAUPO
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
TAUPO
10% off
SEE PAGES 67-69
10% off Scenic Flights only ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
TAUPO
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
HAWKE'S BAY DISCOUNTS SEE PAGE 71
one voucher per person and valid until Dec 2011
TAUPO
DISCOUNTS
$129 jump FREE drink
Jump before 11am for $129
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
Complimentary tea or coffee to the value of $4 on admission
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
HAWKES BAY
$10 Discount Purchase one guided 2pm Art Deco Walk and receive a $10 discount for a second person. Not to be used with any other offer. Expires Dec 2011
T h e u lt i m at e D V D ’s o f
NZ
DVD
bonu image C s D
South Island: Just $39-90
North Island: Just $39-90
New Zealand: Just $49-90
Discover the South Island of New Zealand – from Picton in the North to Stewart Island in the South. For visitors seeking unspoilt wilderness, awe-inspiring scenery and a chance to get away from it all, the South Island is truly a magnicent destination. Its contrasting landscapes include soaring snowy mountains, dramatic glaciers, deep ords, lush forests, dramatic limestone formations, glacier carved lakes, wild coastline and beautiful remote beaches. Some of the worlds best walking tracks can be found in the 10 national parks.
Discover the North Island of New Zealand – from the northern tip at Cape Reinga to the culture capital of Wellington; it is an island where abundance knows no bounds. An island of sandy beaches, expansive rain forests and culturally diverse towns and cities.
This DVD combines both the South Island and North Island on one great DVD. Hours of great footage to add to you memory of New Zealand.
Explore ancient Kauri forests and volcanic landscapes with colourful terraces, bubbling mud pools and dramatic geysers. Fish for trout in remote rivers or raise adrenalin levels with a bungy jump or jet boat ride. Shop until you drop in Auckland or sail the beautiful Bay of Islands.
All DVD’s are:
Completed in 2009 with more than 90 minutes of footage.
Completed in 2009 with more than 90 minutes of footage.
Completed in 2009 with more than 120 minutes of footage.
Completed in 2009, the latest video to hit the market. Both a souvenir and a guide to the North and South Island of New Zealand. High quality DVD’s fully narrated with background music and natural sounds. Plays on any multi-region DVD player. Fully guaranteed.
Purchase online now at www. thenewzealanddvd .co.nz or freephone 0800 485 584
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
HAWKE'S BAY
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
10% off
10% off 10% Admission Discount on presentation of this coupon
CENTRAL
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
CENTRAL
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
FREE LUNCH
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
WELLINGTON
10% off
CENTRAL NORTH &
WELLINGTON DISCOUNTS
SEE PAGES 70 & 74-76
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
MARLBOROUGH
10% off
10% Off Individual or Family Entry. Ph 0800 369 999 State Highway 1, Waiouru NELSON
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
10% off Interislander Bookings Book and pay for any activity to receive a free lunch Direct Bookings only. Lunch to the value of $15.
NELSON
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
10% off
10% off
10% discount off Kayak Packages Freephone: 0800 2KAYAK
10% discount off Abel Tasman AquaTaxi Freephone: 0800 278 282
Direct bookings only.
Direct bookings only.
Enter the promo code Arrival 3 in the promo code box on the payment details when you make a booking on www.interislander.co.nz and present this voucher on check in. Valid until 30 June 2011.
NELSON
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
FREE PHOTO
MARLBOROUGH &
NELSON TASMAN DISCOUNTS SEE PAGES 77-79
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
10% discount on any merchandise at our Cellar Door, excluding wines ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
WEST COAST
$5 off
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
WEST COAST
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
WEST COAST
Receive your wing camera photos worth $39 FREE with a 16,500ft tandem skydive. Direct bookings only & cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer.
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
WEST COAST
$20 off
10% off
$5 off
Receive $20 off your Franz Josef HeliHike experience
Receive 10% off scenic helicopter flights
$5 discount on old time photo
Direct Bookings only. See page 81 for details.
Direct Bookings only. See page 81 for details.
Limit 1 coupon per customer.
WEST COAST DISCOUNTS SEE PAGES 80-81
Present to receive $5 off admission to Glacier Hotpools ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
WEST COAST
10% off
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
WEST COAST
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
KAIKOURA
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
10% off
$5-$10 off
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
10% off
KAIKOURA &
10% off Hobnail shop products excluding NZ Post ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
KAIKOURA
10% off
$5 off Half Day Hikes $10 off Full Day Hikes Freephone: 0800 GUIDES ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
CANTERBURY
$20 off
CANTERBURY DISCOUNTS SEE PAGES 84-87
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
CANTERBURY
Present this voucher to receive 10% off
10% off all Dolphin tours
Valid for one adult fare. Direct bookings only.
Direct bookings only
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
10% off
Direct bookings only
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
WANAKA
$20 off Grade 5 rafting when you present this coupon. See page 86 for details.
Our 12,000 & 15,000 feet Tandem Skydive Freephone 0800 786 877
DISCOUNTS
Bring coupon in to get 10% off Horse Treks
SEE PAGE 83
Direct Bookings only
See page 86 for details.
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
10% off
QUEENSTOWN
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
QUEENSTOWN
FREE gift
$20 off
Receive a free gift to the value of $15 with your Tandem Skydive
$20off OFFWhite WHITEWATER $20 WaterRAFTING Rafting 0800 723 846 0800 +64 723 3 442 846 9792 Freephone: www.rafting.co.nz www.rafting.co.nz
QUEENSTOWN DISCOUNTS
10% off Adult COMBO admission tickets
SEE PAGES 88-93
Valid for 2x Adult Combo tickets.
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
QUEENSTOWN
10% off 10% off Dart River Safaris
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
QUEENSTOWN
$10 off
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
10% off Combining Queenstown’s leading adventure activities
$10 off any of our cruise options
Direct bookings only.
Conditions apply.
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
DUNEDIN DISCOUNTS SEE PAGES 94-95
QUEENSTOWN
DUNEDIN
$10 off
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
QUEENSTOWN
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
QUEENSTOWN
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
QUEENSTOWN
15% OFF 15% off Scenic & Encounter Cruises* Freephone: 0800 264 536 *Conditions apply.
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
QUEENSTOWN
10% off $5- $10 off 20% OFF 10% off scenic helicopter flights Freephone 0800 807 767 ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
DUNEDIN
10% off
Dunedin in a Day $10 off combination one hour City /sights & Otago Peninsula Wildlife tour
WANAKA
$30 off
WANAKA 10% off all Albatross tours
KAIKOURA
Cadbury World Tours 10% off Factory Tour adult ticket price
$10 off for adults and $5 off for youths on our tours, direct bookings only. ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
DUNEDIN
10% off Taieri Gorge Railway – one of the world’s greatest train trips. Dunedin Railway Station Maximum 2 adults per voucher. Direct bookings only.
20% off all Helitours flights Direct bookings only.
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
DUNEDIN
FREE COFFEE Larnach Castle Tour. one complimentary coffee with admission paid
arrival New Zealand
â–
85
arrival New Zealand
â–
86
Find us outside Auckland Airport
Go straight through the main doors, turn right and look for us behind the shuttles. Just look for the blue bubble on the top of the car.
RK
SKYBRI
DGE
CARPA
IONAL TERNAT ILDING AND IN AUCKL TERMINAL BU RT AIRPO
$5 OFF
AUCKLAND CO-OP TAXIS
$5 OFF
Any fare over $55 to or from Auckland Airport www.cooptaxi.co.nz
$5 OFF
AUCKLAND CO-OP TAXIS
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AUCKLAND CO-OP TAXIS
Any fare over $55 to or from Auckland Airport
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AUCKLAND CO-OP TAXIS
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AUCKLAND CO-OP TAXIS
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AUCKLAND CO-OP TAXIS
Any fare over $55 to or from Auckland Airport
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$5 OFF
AUCKLAND CO-OP TAXIS
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AUCKLAND CO-OP TAXIS
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AUCKLAND CO-OP TAXIS
Any fare over $55 to or from Auckland Airport
Any fare over $55 to or from Auckland Airport
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AUCKLAND CO-OP TAXIS
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Any fare over $55 to or from Auckland Airport
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AUCKLAND CO-OP TAXIS
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Onarrival TR A N S P OR T
M O N EY
ThE aIrPorT IS 21 KILoMETrES (14
cUrrENcY EXchaNGE
MILES) FroM cENTraL aUcKLaND.
The Travelex currency exchange outlets at
a FrEE BUS rUNS BETWEEN ThE
Auckland International Airport are open for
INTErNaTIoNaL aND DoMESTIc
all international arrivals and departures, no
TErMINaLS.
matter what day or time you arrive. There are
airbuses to the city depart from both the international and domestic terminals every 15 minutes (every 30 minutes at night), 24-hours a day, every day. It takes around 45 minutes and costs $16 one-way, $23 return. There’s a
so it pays to shop around.
H E A DING HOME LEaVING aUcKLaND
stop if you’re using a credit card, but you can
Airline counters open for check-in up to
also pay the driver cash. Buses leave from in
three hours before departure. Remember not
front of the terminals.
to carry sharp objects in your hand luggage,
($30 - $40 per person) are found outside the
w w w. a r r i v a l . c o . n z
many currency exchange options in the city,
pre-pay machine at the International Arrivals
Taxis (around $60 - $80) and shuttles
ON a R R IVa l
and follow rules regarding liquids and gels. Getting back to the airport: The same
terminal, and major car rental companies are
services mentioned above are available for
located inside the international terminal, and on
getting back to the international terminal
the ground-floor of the car-park building directly
from the city, and from the domestic terminal.
opposite the domestic terminal. Campervan and
Taxi companies have different rates so do a
rental car companies located nearby offer free
comparison while you’re in the country. We
shuttles – as do airport hotels/motels. Hotels can
recommend Auckland Co-op Taxis.
be called from special phones at either terminal.
Se $5 tax e our Cou i di sc p Cou on o ount pon n th pag e es!
* Free Meet & Greet * Vans * Airport Transfers * City Tours * * Online Bookings * CBD Dedicated Ranks * GE BRID SKY
Don’t worry about taking a shuttle, go driect to your destination in a taxi. Find our dedicated rank at both the International and Domestic Aiports. We are located just behind the shuttles 09-300-3000.
CARPARK
AUCKLAND INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT TERMINAL BUILDING
arrival New Zealand
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1
Easy come ThE aIrBUS EXPrESS IS ThE BEST aNSWEr For aNY TraVELLEr Who WaNTS a DIrEcT, EaSY WaY To GET FroM ThE aIrPorT To ThE cITY aND VIcE VErSa. rUNNING 24-hoUrS a DaY, ThE aIrBUS EXPrESS IS aUcKLaND’S chEaPEST, MoST coNVENIENT aIrPorT TraNSFEr SErVIcE.
easy go
I
t leaves every 15 minutes (or every 30
return. For a child it’s $6 one way, $12 return.
minutes at night), so you’ll never have to
Backpackers and seniors with ID can get a one-
wait too long. Their website www.airbus.
way ticket for $14, return $21.
co.nz has timetables with exact departure
can take bulky luggage too. It’s just an extra
maps with detailed information. You can
$6 per bulky item, and with heaps of internal
book your ticket online, or buy it from the
luggage storage and wheelchair access,
driver. For credit card payment, you must use
there’s room for everyone.
the machine at International Arrivals. A one-way trip takes around 40 to 50
■
arrival New Zealand
Airbus Express goes right downtown to Britomart, so you can take a connecting
minutes, and during the ride you can check out
bus or train from there to your ultimate
various New Zealand attractions and activities
destination. It travels via Queen Street, so
on the on-board video screen. You don’t need a
weary travellers won’t have far to go to get
reservation – just show up and get tickets from
to any central accommodation.
the driver. It’s $16 for an adult one way or $23
2
Surfer, biker, hiker? Never fear – Airbus
times from your closest stop, plus route
TAXI from $120 return SHUTTLE from $50 return
Have more money to
from $21 return
spend on your visit to New Zealand with Airbus Express, the friendly, cost effective and reliable transport option to and from Auckland Airport.
Operating
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about the
front cover...
ISSUE 34
Polynesian Spa, rotorua. Polynesian Spa enjoys a fabulous location overlooking geothermal activity geothermal waters with a luxurious treatment in the secluded Lake Spa,
what’s in this issue...
or simply soak in private pools overlooking the lake. There are also adults-
F E AT U R E S
at Sulphur Bay on Lake Rotorua. Visitors can experience the spa’s healing
only bathing pools, a family-friendly freshwater pool with adjacent mineral spas, and a café and gift shop. See www.polynesianspa.co.nz
Cool NZ iPhone apps Major Event
Southern Discoveries are passionate about sharing the very best of the
Useful Websites
awe-inspiring landscape of Milford Sound, offering authentic, informative,
14
General Overview
and personal nature tours and cruises. Their friendly guides enjoy nothing
19
transport
more than sharing knowledge and local stories of their breathtaking
26
What’s Hot / New
discovering the heart of Milford Sound. Freephone: 0800 264 536. www.southerndiscoveries.co.nz
MAPS
Explore NZ.
29 south Island Map
Whether you want to sail on Auckland Harbour, spot dolphins in the Bay
28 North Island Map
of Islands, or explore the dunes near Cape Reinga in an off-road vehicle,
D E S T I N AT I O N S
Explore NZ has got it covered. This award-winning, environment-focused
30
Northland
company offers an exciting range of tours and cruises in Auckland and
35
auckland
44
Islands of the Gulf
46
Coromandel
the Bay of Islands, including sailing on iconic Kiwi yachts, whale and dolphin cruises, and the chance to participate in an ecological restoration programme. See www.explorenz.co.nz
48
Waikato
Fox Glacier, West coast.
56
Bay of Plenty
At 13 kilometres long, Fox Glacier (Te Moeka o Tuawe) is one of the
58
Whakatane
longest glaciers within Westland Tai Poutini National Park. The Fox Glacier
60
Rotorua
Valley is less than six kilometres from Fox Glacier village, and offers several
67
taupo
Glacier Guiding provides a full range of glacier tours and breathtaking ice
70
Central North Island
adventures to suit all fitness levels. See www.foxguides.co.nz
71
Hawke’s Bay
72
taranaki
74
Wellington
77
Marlborough
78
Nelson tasman
80
West Coast
83
Wanaka
84
Kaikoura
85
Canterbury
88
Queenstown
94
Dunedin
96
southland
walks that afford spectacular glacier views. The experienced team at Fox
arrIVaL MaGaZINE www.arrival.co.nz PEoPLE PUBLIShING www.peoplemediagroup.co.nz NEXT ISSUE: june 2011. aUDITED PrINT: 100,000 copies. PUBLIShED QUarTErLY: Sept/Dec/Mar/june. Design: Martina O’Keeffe, URBAN_i www.urban-i.co.nz Printed by: PMP Print. advertising: Murray Batger, mob: 0274 383 222, email: murray@arrival.co.nz christina Flood, mob: 0211 059 247 email: christina@arrival.co.nz
Editor: Heather Ramsay Publisher: People Media Group, Ground Floor, 26 Albert Street, P O Box 7070, Wellesley Street, Auckland, New Zealand ph: (09) 366 6879, fax: (09) 366 6838, email: peoplemediagroup@arrival.co.nz Copyright: arrival.
Audit period July - December 2007: 105000 - per issue
or not?
8 12
backyard, and they truly believe you’ll never forget the time you spent
Achieved
Important Information
10
Southern Discoveries.
John Key:
6
Look out for Explore Australia, Exporter and Weekend magazines also from People Publishing
102 south Pacific
I M M I G R AT I O N / B U S I N E S S 99
Immigration
arrival New Zealand
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5
important inf ormation w w w. a r r i v a l . c o . n z
WEST coast shore
information
Important PHONE NUMBERS Emergency – Fire, police and ambulance dial 111. International operator 0170 International directory assistance 0172 Local operator 010 New Zealand directory assistance 018 Public payphones accept phone cards ($5-$50), credit cards, calling cards and some take coins. Local call flat rate: $1/15min, national call $1 per minute.
WEATHER The weather anywhere in New Zealand can be changeable, with location and weather patterns having a huge influence. Average summer (December-February) maximum temperatures range from 20-30°C and in winter (June-August) the range is 10-16°C. Spring and autumn temperatures generally fall somewhere in between. PASSPORTS Must be valid for three months beyond the intended date of departure. Australians with an e-Passport can use the SmartGates at Auckland and Wellington airports. BANKING Banks hours are generally 9am – 4.30pm, Monday to Friday but in cities some are open on Saturday mornings, late nights and weekends. 24-hour ATMs are widespread.
6
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arrival New Zealand
CURRENCY You can buy NZ dollars at banks and foreign exchange kiosks, and at international airports. Major credit cards are accepted and travellers’ cheques can be used at banks, many hotels, and some stores. You may not be able to change travellers’ cheques in regional areas, especially on weekends. sales tax All goods and services in New Zealand are subject to a 15% goods and services tax. The tax is usually included in the price of an item unless otherwise indicated. There is no GST refund scheme for overseas visitors. INSURANCE IN NEW ZEALAND If you haven’t already got travel insurance, you can purchase it locally for short or long term stays. It can cover medical expenses, evacuation and repatriation, cancellation and changes to your journey, personal accident, personal liability, rental car excess, money and travel documents and optional cover for baggage and personal effects. It can be arranged online at www.scti.co.nz. TIPPING New Zealanders do not expect tips for normal service but it is appreciated for excellent service. DRINKING, SMOKING, DRIVING The minimum age for buying alcohol is 18. Smoking is not allowed in bars, restaurants or other indoor public areas. The blood alcohol limit for fully licensed drivers over twenty years is 0.08. For under twenties, it’s effectively zero.
Safety and security New Zealand is generally a safe place to travel, but sadly crime does happen. Theft from unattended vehicles is on the rise so never leave valuables in the vehicle, put belongings out of sight, and always lock up. For personal safety, common sense and a touch of caution will see you right. The SAFE (7233) text message service can be accessed by police and is available for anyone wishing to record their NZ travel intentions. It stores travel details but isn’t monitored. In emergencies, 111 is still the number to call. STAYING CONNECTED If your mobile phone has roaming, that’s great, but it may be more cost-effective to invest in a local prepaid SIM card. Providers are Vodafone, Telecom, and 2Degrees - drop into any of their shops for advice. Phone cards offer incredibly cheap rates from landlines and some can be used with mobiles. Internet, usually broadband, can be found at cyber cafes, accommodation providers, i-SITE Visitor Information Centres, and public libraries. Many public PCs are coin-operated ($1 & $2) and typical costs are $6 per hour. Libraries are often cheaper, and sometimes free. If you’re travelling with a laptop and your room doesn’t have wi-fi, try the public areas of your hotel, libraries (once again, sometimes free) or cafes with a wireless hotspot. Mobile phone providers also offer prepaid mobile broadband.
Voucher expires 31/07/11. ASB Bank Limited.
special VIP exchange rate.
and take it to any ASB branch for a
Keep this voucher
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special VIP exchange rate.
and take it to any ASB branch for a
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special VIP exchange rate.
and take it to any ASB branch for a
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Voucher expires 31/07/11. ASB Bank Limited.
special VIP exchange rate.
and take it to any ASB branch for a
Keep this voucher
Voucher expires 31/07/11. ASB Bank Limited.
special VIP exchange rate.
and take it to any ASB branch for a
Keep this voucher
Convert your foreign cash or American Express travellers cheques to NZ$ and cut out the commission at ASB branches nationwide.
For more information go to asb.co.nz or call 0800 925 566.
For all other foreign exchange transactions normal fees apply. ASB will only convert foreign cash or American Express travellers cheques in currencies in which it transacts. Foreign Exchange Terms & Conditions apply and are available from any ASB branch. Fees and service charges may also apply. ASB Bank Limited.
COOl NZ IPHONE aPPs w w w. a r r i v a l . c o . n z
tRIPaDVIsOR
tOURIsM aUCKlaND
YEllOW
tM
If you’re looking
View over 100
Let your thumbs
for cheap flights, a
Auckland activities,
do the walking!
hotel, or restaurant
attractions and
Search Yellow’s
nearby, TripAdvisor’s
events. Browse A –
huge directory
new app finds it fast.
Z, use a keyword,
Browse reviews of hotels, restaurants and
or shake the dice to
of businesses and services, wherever you need them in
attractions, ask questions in the forums, or
view random listings. Track down the closest
the country. Once you’ve found it, get
get GPS directions for driving, walking, or
i-SITE Visitor Centre or find out what’s
directions, email it to a friend, or save it to
public transport.
nearby with the “Near me” function.
favourites.
aIR NEW ZEalaND MPass
WHat BIRD NZ?
WEllY WalKs Explore our compact
View up-to-date
Is that a tweet or a
capital with your
flight booking details
twitter? This guide
own expert tour
and download your
to our feathered
guide! Visit heritage
boarding passes.
friends helps you
buildings, museums
If you’ve only got
identify over fifty
and galleries; discover nature, boutique
carry-on baggage, go straight to the boarding
native and exotic birds. You can see and hear
shops, award-winning restaurants, cafes and
gate and scan the mPass. Otherwise scan the
them, and learn facts and interesting trivia in
a whole lot more.
bar code yourself at the check-in kiosk.
a fun format.
aUCKlaND aIRPORt
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fIND! NZ Yes, it’s ours! Get
Never be late (or
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Zealand’s “four
magazine, find our
time departure and
seasons in one day”
favourite operators,
arrival details from
weather. Get the
and discover hundreds of fantastic things to
both international and domestic terminals at
latest forecasts from MetService, including
see and do around the country. A map and
Auckland airport.
marine, coastal and general forecasts, tides,
GPS function will guide you along the way.
and surf and snow reports.
www.gotobednow.com Search & book over 2500 NZ accommodation operators
BEST DEALS BOOK HERE BOOK NOW
8
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arrival New Zealand
T H E
G U I D E
T O
N E W
Z E A L A N D
maj or even t w w w. a r r i v a l . c o . n z
Pool A New Zealand France Tonga Canada Japan
Pool C Australia Ireland Italy Russia USA
Pool B Argentina England Scotland Georgia Romania
Pool D South Africa Wales Fiji Samoa Namibia
All Blacks
The time is
nigh!
Webb Ellis Cup
THE YEARS OF DREAMING, WAITING AND PLANNING ARE NEARLY OVER AND THE ENTIRE COUNTRY IS ANTICIPATING SIX WEEKS OF SPORTING FRENZY
among the world’s biggest sporting
T
participating teams will be hosted at twenty-
events – will bring an unparalleled level
three centres nationwide – sixteen in the
of excitement to this rugby-mad country,
North Island and seven in the South Island,
adding an extra vibrancy to New Zealand’s
involving both big and small communities.
visitor destinations.
Along with the rugby, communities will be
his spring, Rugby World Cup 2011 –
The government and tourism industry
And it’s not just Auckland. The twenty
organising a whole festival of events, and
leaders have been working hard to make
around 5,000 volunteers are being recruited
sure that the six-week sporting shindig
to host the thousands of RWC2011 visitors.
is far bigger than just the tournament.
The first game of the competition kicks
Auckland’s Queens Wharf is in the throes of
off at a revamped 60,000-seat Eden Park in
a makeover to turn it into ‘Party Central’ for
Auckland on September 9, 2011 and the final
visitors and locals in town for the Cup, new
will be played at the same ground on October
accommodation is being built, and transport
23. To see the draw or find out where your
infrastructure and stadiums are being
favourite team will be based, visit
enhanced throughout the country.
www.rugbyworldcup.com/ destinationnewzealand/index.html
10
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arrival New Zealand
arrival New Zealand
â–
11
LaKE MaThESoN
rUaPEhU
NEW ZEalaND must visit websites www.i-site.org.nz As well as essential information, the Visitor Information Network’s website has insider tips on what’s on, what’s new and what’s hot, posted daily by i-SITE staff from around the country.
www.gotobednow.com
www.queenstown-nz.co.nz
BEST DEALS on NZ www.gotobednow.com accommodation DEALS Book Here, Book Now atBEST www.gotobednow.com BOOK HERE 2500 accommodation providers online BOOK NOW
Official site of Queenstown Tourism. Queenstown offers breathtaking scenery and is a popular holiday destination.
Search & book over 2500 NZ accommodation operators
www.bookabach.co.nz
www.trademe.co.nz
www.greatlaketaupo.com
Specialises in NZ holiday accommodation. Listings of baches, vacation homes, beach houses and more.
Buying or selling a car, a surfboard, or camping gear? Need a bed or a job? With 5.5 million auctions a month, New Zealand’s largest auction site has it covered.
Official website for Destination Lake Taupo. Great travel maps, driving routes, adventure activities and accommodation.
www.newzealand.com
www.arrival.co.nz
www.rotoruanz.com
The official site of Tourism New Zealand. Discover new places, experiences and activities plus great deals, driving routes and accommodation.
View hundreds of options for car rentals, accommodation, places to see, things to do & discounts available around New Zealand
Rotorua’s official website, with information on accommodation, activities, geothermal spas and dining.
www.dunedinnz.com
www.nzherald.co.nz
www.doc.govt.nz
Official website of Dunedin Tourism. Visitor information, where to stay, what to see and do and events and festivals around Dunedin.
New Zealand’s largest daily newspaper delivers the latest global news, and gives an insight into issues facing the country.
Discover the hidden treasures managed by the Department of Conservation. Information on conservation areas, walks, tracks, huts, camping grounds, policy and issues.
SIGN UP aND SaVE
Do what the locals do and sign up for alerts on hot daily deals. Specials are on offer throughout the country, ranging from hair cuts to helicopter rides, burgers to bungy jumps, clothing to cameras, and flights to fine dining. Check out our favourite sites:
www.treatme.co.nz, www.1-day.co.nz, www.spreets.co.nz, www.grabone.co.nz, www.seeya.co.nz
12
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arrival New Zealand
STYLE COMFORT SOPHISTICATION SATISFACTION
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arrival New Zealand
■
13
GENERAL OVERVIEW w w w. a r r i v a l . c o . n z
ThisNewisZealand find! NZ
iPhone app
DOWNLOAD NOW FREE from app store
Otago Harbour
Around 180 million years ago
Captain James Cook. In 1840 the Treaty of
Self-contained
New Zealand broke away from
Waitangi confirmed New Zealand as a British
Motels are the most widespread
colony and it became an independent nation
accommodation choice, and units generally
in 1947.
have a fully-equipped kitchen, a bathroom
a giant land-mass called Gondwana and drifted nearly 3,000km south to where it sits today. Polynesians sailed here in the early 1300s, following their ancestor Kupe, who had named
A visit to any of the country’s excellent
and one or two bedrooms. Rates range from
museums will fill you in on everything that’s
$70 to $150 (or more) a night. Apartments,
led us to where we are now – a modern,
holiday homes or even vineyard cottages are
multi-cultural nation enjoying an enviable
good self-catering options for longer stays.
Pacific lifestyle.
the country Aotearoa – “Land of the Long White Cloud”
D ■
New Zealand B&Bs, homestays and farmstays are a good way to meet locals. Some B&Bs
utch explorer Abel Tasman arrived
WHETHER LUXURY OR BUDGET, CITY
provide dinner on request and all provide
in 1642, naming the land “Nieuw
OR COUNTRY, NEW ZEALAND OFFERS
breakfast. Farmstays, where you stay with a
Zeeland”. European settlement began
A WIDE RANGE OF ACCOMMODATION
family on their farm, are an excellent way to
CHOICES
get an insight into this important industry.
in 1769 with the arrival of British navigator
14
Accommodation
Home & Hosted
arrival New Zealand
Luxury Lodgings
innovative cuisine that has led to many New
Marlborough, Canterbury/Waipara and
Throughout the country you’ll find large
Zealand chefs gaining fame offshore.
Central Otago. Each region produces “wine
luxury hotels, boutique hotels, country
Kiwis tend to prefer less formal,
trail” maps showing wineries or you can
lodges, resorts, health retreats and luxury
brasserie-style eating and there are many
devise your own outing, or join an organised
B&Bs providing impeccable service and every
establishments around the country with
wine tour.
conceivable comfort.
smart or homely décor, tasty, inventive cuisine
region has its signature varieties – for
from casual daytime cafés to sophisticated
example, Marlborough is renowned for
evening eateries. Alfresco dining at pavement
Sauvignon Blanc; Gisborne for Chardonnay;
tables, beside the water or among the vines is
Hawke’s Bay for Claret-style reds; Central
popular, especially in summer.
Otago for Pinot Noir, etc. – but there are no
If you enjoy ethnic cuisine you’ll find a veritable United Nations of food on offer, whether it’s Thai, Indian, Chinese, Japanese, Indonesian, Malaysian, Korean, French, Birds Ferry Lodge 2, westport
The Shoestring Thing
Varying climate and terrain means each
and good service. Many such places morph
Italian, and so on. Fast-food outlets range from big-name international chains to tiny kebab stands and gourmet burger bars.
hard-and-fast rules to finding a great wine.
Shopping If you’re looking for a typical Kiwi memento, there’s no shortage of souvenir shops in tourist centres and cities
Backpacker lodges and hostels are great places to meet and share tips and experiences with
For something more individual, check out
other independent travellers. A dorm bed can
art and craft galleries that support local
start from as little as $15, with most averaging
artists and artisans working in glass, wood,
$18 – $20 a night. Most provide a range of
wool, bone, paua (abalone) shell, and other
sleeping options, from dorm beds with shared
indigenous materials.
facilities to double rooms with en suites.
Fashionable clothing and thermal wear
Campers will find scores of holiday parks
made from fine wools such as merino are
and campsites in beautiful locations. As
a good buy, as are New Zealand wines and
well as powered and unpowered sites,
gourmet treats. On the subject of fashion,
many offer basic cabin accommodation and
New Zealand designers have been making a
Conservation) also maintains basic camping
Wine Trails
areas in stunning natural areas.
Most wineries welcome tourists
motel-style tourist flats. DOC (Department of
splash on international runways in recent years as critics rave about their fresh and edgy look.
to their cellar doors to sample
Where to shop
and buy their products. Some
In central Auckland, you’ll find design stores
A TEMPERATE CLIMATE, FERTILE SOIL
have pleasant picnic areas,
and galleries in the heritage buildings near
AND A PRISTINE OCEAN COMBINE TO
restaurants and even vineyard
the waterfront, or for clothing by top New
PROVIDE TALENTED KIWI CHEFS WITH
cottages to rent
Zealand designers visit heritage-listed Vulcan
Dining
Lane and High, O’Connell and Chancery
THE FRESHEST MEAT, SEAFOOD AND
Streets, which are just off the main street,
PRODUCE
Queen Street. To the west, Ponsonby Road has boutique
Add an enthusiasm for incorporating
fashion stores, galleries, trendy shops and
international influences and you’ve got an
HAWKES BAY
New Zealand’s ten recognised wine regions are Northland, Auckland (including Waiheke Island),Waikato/Bay of Plenty, Gisborne, Hawke’s Bay, Wairarapa, Nelson,
Dunedin jewellery shop Lure
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15
Botany Downs auckland
Museums & Galleries New Zealand ’s history and culture is preserved in museums and art galleries that range from modern icons like Wellington’s Te Papa to smalltown celebrations of local craft and industry One of the oldest is the Auckland Museum, founded in 1852. It holds a world-class
“CARBONATED”
collection of Maori and Pacific artefacts,
Varying sizes of both plain and diamond
along with excellent collections of ethnology
set circles placed randomly to create this
and natural history, military and social
ring that is both bubbly and fun to wear. This collection of retro-inspired designs
history, and the decorative arts. Te Papa – the many excellent eateries, while Newmarket’s
country’s national museum – showcases New
features top quality white diamonds,
main shopping areas are Broadway and
Zealand’s history and culturally diverse society
natural coloured diamonds and other top
Nuffield Street.
through smart and interactive interpretations.
coloured gemstones to create bold and eye-catching pieces. Be noticed with this unique and exceptionally eye-catching design. For more and other collections see us at 1st floor,10 High St Auckland city or online at www.caratsjewellery.co.nz
In Downtown Wellington, the Lambton
The Auckland City Art Gallery is the
Quarter is where chain stores rub shoulders
country’s oldest, while Christchurch’s boasts
with unique boutiques; Willis Quarter is a mix of
the striking new gallery Te Puna o Waiwhetu.
lifestyle shops, and several local designers have their flagship stores here. In the funky Cuba Quarter explore James Smith’s Market or head to Courtenay Quarter for a 24/7 experience. In Christchurch, shopping streets radiate out
Outdoors FOX GLACIER.
from Cathedral Square. SoL (South of Lichfield) is an eclectic mix of boutique retailers and trendy cafés. Every weekend the Arts Centre precinct bursts with up to 100 stalls of local arts, crafts and fresh produce.Queenstown has good shopping, especially for high-quality active and leisurewear, sporting goods and souvenirs.
DFS Galleria For fifty years, DFS has been offering international travellers high-end, distinctive luxury products and enticing retail environments. As the journey continues, DFS reflects on its past, celebrates its success and looks forward to continuing as the world’s leading luxury travel retailer. In-store displays marking the 50-year journey, commemorative gifts, exclusive giveaways and presentations will add
Fine quality handmade art, crafts and
NEW ZEALAND’S 14 MAGNIFICENT
souvenirs are sold in galleries throughout
NATIONAL PARKS OFFER AN
New Zealand. Every area has talented
UNSURPASSED OUTDOOR EXPERIENCE
artists and craftspeople, and you are often able to visit them in their home studios
Backcountry huts provide shelter on outings
and watch them at work. Nelson, which is
that may take in rainforests and tundra,
known as the arts capital of New Zealand,
mountain peaks and glaciers, fiords and
has a large concentration of artists, many
waterfalls, deserted beaches and pristine
of whom sell their wares at the busy
lakes, rivers and coastal waters. Tramp,
Saturday morning market.
ski, kayak, jetboat into remote areas – our
The small towns of Cambridge and Tirau
to the celebratory mood. DFS locations
on State Highway 1 south of Hamilton are
include Auckland International Airport
known for unique crafts and antiques.
national parks have it all. The Department of Conservation’s (www. doc.govt.nz) nine “Great Walks” include
Decorative tapa (bark) cloths from the
the Milford, Routeburn, Heaphy and Lake
corner Customs and Albert Streets,
Pacific Islands can be found at Auckland
Waikaremoana tracks, as well as the Abel
Downtown Auckland.
markets, and a few specialist shops like
Tasman Coast Track and Whanganui Journey,
Pauanesia in High St sell quirky Pasificana.
both of which offer canoe/kayak options.
and DFS Customhouse Galleria,
16
Art, Crafts & Collectibles
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arrival New Zealand
Queenstown is a main centre for adventure activities, but you can even taste high-level
JACKS POINT QUEENSTOWN
thrills in the centre of Auckland with the Sky Tower’s 192m Skyjump and knee-trembling SkyWalk. Rotorua and Taupo also have their share of thrills and Waitomo’s caves offer underground excitement in various forms.
HORSE TREKKING
Scenic Highways TOURIST ROUTES THAT TAKE IN AREAS
There are dozens of other fine tramps of
OF SCENIC, HISTORICAL OR CULTURAL
varying lengths, and some guided walks
INTEREST ARE WELL-MARKED BY
include catered overnight lodge stays.
SPECIAL BROWN SIGNS
New Zealand’s waters are a paradise for fresh and saltwater fishers. Hunting,
Driving north from Auckland you meet the Twin
horsetrekking, mountain biking, climbing
Coast Discovery Highway, which follows a long
and, in winter, skiing in all its forms, are other
loop through Northland, including east (Bay of
popular outdoor pursuits.
Islands) and west (giant kauri forests) coasts; the
Remember that the great outdoors can
Pacific Coast Highway takes in the Coromandel,
Health & Wellbeing
be dangerous and unpredictable. Get an
Bay of Plenty and Hawke’s Bay on its way
updated weather report, always tell someone
from Auckland to Napier; while the Thermal
HOT THERMAL WATERS CREATED SOME
your plans including when you’ll be back, and
Explorer opens up Rotorua’s geysers and Maori
OF NEW ZEALAND’S EARLIEST RESORTS
go prepared with extra clothing and food.
culture, Taupo’s volcanoes and hotsprings,
You can hire PLBs (Personal Locator Beacons).
the glowworm caves of Waitomo and the
See www.mountainsafety.org.nz
spectacular scenery of the Central Plateau. There are many other national and local
Adventure/Thrills
scenic routes that are worth watching out for –
COMMERCIAL BUNGY JUMPING WAS
and discovering New Zealand’s rural heartland.
or create your own by leaving the major arteries
INVENTED HERE, SO IT’S NO SURPRISE THAT NEW ZEALAND IS A MAGNET FOR THRILL-SEEKERS
Soaking in a mineral hotpool at Rotorua, Taupo or Hanmer Springs is an experience not to be missed, and there are many other, less-visited hotspots up and down the country. You can even find hot pools in the bush, or by the sea at places like Kawhia or the Coromandel’s Hot Water Beach. Spa treatments – from massages to body
Golf
wraps and facials – are available at several
NEW ZEALAND HAS MORE GOLF
common in main centres. Public swimming
thermal resorts, while day spas are becoming
High-adrenalin activities range from the
COURSES PER HEAD OF population
pools often have spa pools, saunas, gyms and
aforementioned leap from high places to
THAN ANYWHERE ELSE IN THE WORLD
massage facilities.
abseiling down waterfalls and rafting along
– FROM NINE-HOLE COUNTRY TRACKS
underground rivers. Other breathtaking
TO WORLD-CLASS LAYOUTS DESIGNED
activities include jetboating, whitewater rafting, scuba diving, tandem skydiving and paragliding,
BY THE GAME’S GREATEST NAMES
river surfing, off-road 4WD adventures, giant
Crowded fairways are a rarity; in fact on
swings, luge runs and the Zorb – a hollow
weekdays you’ll often have them to yourself,
plastic ball in which you bounce downhill.
and the cost of a round on a rural course can be as little as $15 or $20. The average is $30 – $40, with top courses asking $65 – $150 (non-NZGA-affiliated). A small number of resort courses – like the stunning Kauri Cliffs in the Bay of Islands and rugged Cape Kidnappers in Hawke’s Bay – may demand up to $400 a round for non-resident or nonNZGA-affiliated players, but the experience is one you’re unlikely to forget.
SHOT OVER JET QUEENSTOWN
POLYNESIAN SPA
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18
â–
arrival New Zealand
transport
country
w w w. a r r i v a l . c o . n z
Seeing the
find! NZ
iPhone app
DOWNLOAD NOW FREE from app store
INTERISLANDER
NEW ZEALAND IS FAMOUS FOR
Self-drive
ITS SPECTACULAR SCENERY, AND
This is a popular option for anyone who
YOU DON’T HAVE TO VENTURE FAR
likes to do their own thing. New Zealand’s
OFF THE BEATEN TRACK TO FIND
roading network is excellent. Most roads –
MOUNTAIN RANGES, VOLCANOES,
even smaller rural thoroughfares – are paved,
THERMAL ACTIVITY, PRISTINE LAKES, FIORDS AND MEANDERING RIVERS, AS WELL AS MYRIAD PICTURESQUE BAYS AND BEACHES.
though small, scenic, back-country roads may have unsealed, gravel surfaces, and some are four-wheel-drive territory. Vehicle rental companies usually have such 4WD vehicles in their range, along with every shape and size of car. Some companies
specialise in motor homes, from small, budget vans to luxury self-contained models. Major international car-rental companies are represented here and home-grown firms often have very good deals. Distances between major places of interest are never great, so driving is a leisurely affair. There is plentiful accommodation on routes throughout the country. Remember, New Zealanders drive on the left-hand-side of the road!
arrival New Zealand
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19
MOBILE LIVING More and more motorhomes and campervans are seen on Kiwi roads these days. Little wonder: not only do they provide mobile lodgings, the view from your bedroom window is often nothing less than spectacular. Most hire companies provide maps and detailed information about campgrounds and holiday parks around New Zealand and there are many other less formal (and usually more basic) sites open to self-contained motorhomes. The Auckland Regional Council (ARC), for example, allows camping in several regional parks (see www.arc.govt.nz) and the Department of Conservation (www.doc.govt. nz) manages some 240 vehicle-accessible camping areas on conservation land. Wherever you stop, please dispose of all litter and waste responsibly, and leave the campsite spotless for future campers. Waste (unfortunately including human waste) is a problem in some freedom camping areas, ruining previously pristine spots. Some local councils have been forced to entirely ban freedom camping, and if camping is permitted, only self-contained motorhomes with toilet
oN roaD To LaKE oKaTaINa, roTorUa
LOW COST, QUALITY CAMPERS AND CARS 2 BERTH CAMPER 5+ DAY BOOKINGS
$34
COMPACT CAR
$23 per day*
per day*
*For travel from 1 June 2011 to 10 June 2011. Prices correct at time of print. Subject to availability. Standard terms and conditions apply.
BOOK
NOW FOR
FREE 20
â–
arrival New Zealand
CALL 24/7 0800 081 025 facebook.com/backpackercampervans
backpackercampervans.co.nz
facilities should stop in these sites. Motorhome
Accommodation, most meals and sightseeing
toilets and waste water must only be emptied
are usually included in the price package,
in designated dump stations. Most holiday
and you will receive friendly service and an
parks have dump stations for guests’ use,
informative commentary.
although non-guests can often use them for
Kiwi Experience, Stray Travel and Magic
a fee. Free dump stations are widespread –
Travellers Network offer budget package
download the location brochure from www.
options, and regular scheduled bus services
tourism.govt.nz or ask at the local i-SITE Visitor
operate between towns and cities, and also
Information Centre.
link with inter-island ferry services. Intercity
Beware, too: some jet-lagged long-haul
Coachlines visits more than 600 towns and
visitors have come to grief by attempting to
communities throughout New Zealand every
drive long distances in big, unfamiliar vehicles
day. Even scheduled services usually have a
as soon as they step off the plane. Better to
commentary, so you will still learn about the
spend the first night near the airport and then
country as you travel.
get on your way. Several hire companies advertise in the
Local towns and cities have public transport networks, and several have city sightseeing
pages of arrival and some offer readers
tours and/or convenient hop-on, hop-
special discounts and privileges – check out the
off options that loop around the main
vouchers section at the front of this magazine.
attractions. Try Auckland Explorer, CitySights
COACH
in Wellington, the Tram in Christchurch and Citibus in Dunedin.
For those who like to be driven and prefer a more organised agenda, coach tour companies
WATER
like GreatSights take charter groups or
Water transport ranges from high-thrill jet
individuals, whether for a half-day sightseeing
boats that race over river rapids, to stately
tour, a full day, a week, or even a month.
steamers, ferries, launches and large yachts,
FREE
WHEN YOU RENT FOR 4* AVI 0108 Service AR_HP_02.indd 1
It’s why travelling with us just feels better. Visit avis.co.nz or call 0800 655 111
Y&R_AVI0105_AM
FIRST DAY
*Valid 1 March 2011 to 30 June 2011. Coupon number – TPNA051 to be quoted at time of booking. Further conditions apply. Visit www.avis.co.nz or call 0800 655 111 for full details.
1/04/11 11:28 AM
arrival New Zealand
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21
SEE ThE coUNTrY BY raIL WITh TraNZScENIc
CARS fRom
27
PER DAY*
$
t our k ou re deals c e h . o C page ore M Expl coupon e on th
E HIRE M.nz 08p0lo0remore.co
Car hire rates are based on our 3+ day rates for travel in May. Rates are correct at time of print. Subject to availability. Standard terms and conditions apply.
GO NoW 0800 HIRE mE
BooK
T S O L GET Z
â–
arrival New Zealand
s Cave worm mbo Glow aves Co C omo Wait Ruakuri and
E HIRE M.nz 08p0lo0remore.co
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twitter@exploremorehire for ilable
exploremore.co.nz
22
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ava gs Deals e bookin een ir car h avel betw 2011 and tr nd June a April
g Co aftin ter RLabyrinth k Wa Blac or Black ry a nd ss Lege ck Aby The Bla .nz
facebook.com/exploremorerentals e rehir
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Taupo Floatplane
available either for excursions or charter. Ferries link the North and South islands of New Zealand, crossing Cook Strait daily between Wellington and Picton in the Marlborough Sounds. The Interislander operates three ferries, the Arahura, Kaitaki and Aratere, all of which carry passengers and vehicles. In good weather the trip takes three hours, with up to five return sailings between Wellington and Picton each day, depending on the season. The crossing has been described as “one of the most beautiful ferry rides in the world”. At the bottom of the country, there’s a launch service across the Foveaux Strait to Stewart Island. Local ferries, such as those that service Auckland’s seaside suburbs and Hauraki Gulf islands, are a convenient way to get out on the water. Car/passenger ferries run between Auckland and Waiheke and Great Barrier Islands. In places like the Marlborough Sounds and Abel Tasman National Park, water taxis service otherwise inaccessible areas and most will organise sightseeing agendas.
AIR Air New Zealand services most domestic destinations, with Jetstar providing budget services on a restricted network. Air New Zealand’s Eagle Airways, Mount Cook airlines and Air Nelson fly to regional and tourist centres and small commuter air services link smaller towns. One-way internet fares between Auckland and Christchurch may be as low as $49 (sometimes even less), depending on flight dates and specials. Generally, low-rate Auckland- Christchurch fares range from $75 to $119. If you’re not tied to a schedule, snap up an incredibly cheap deal on Air New Zealand’s Grabaseat – specials are loaded every day. Charter planes and helicopters are available throughout the country for scenic flights.
RAIL Rail travel takes in some of the most beautiful stretches of countryside. The daily Tranzalpine service from Christchurch to Greymouth over Arthur’s Pass in the Southern Alps is a case in point. The train crosses breathtaking
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23
The Overlander links Auckland and
Rail buffs head for Dunedin to catch the
scenery and its service has earned international accolades. You can travel there and back in
Wellington via the Central North Island. The
daily Taieri Gorge scenic rail experience,
the same day.
scenic 12-hour trip passes through some of
travelling across the Taieri plains and over
the North Island’s most inaccessible areas,
the spectacular gorge on a four-hour return
and Picton is another scenic journey, this time
and includes many amazing tunnels, viaducts
journey into the past. The Track & Trail coach/
following the east coast. It connects with the
and bridges. It departs both Auckland and
rail option from Citibus offers a link to and
ferry service to Wellington. (The Tranzcoastal
Wellington at 7.25am daily until May 1 (no
from Queenstown. Around the country,
has been temporarily replaced by coaches
service April 22 – 25 due to track upgrades).
societies of rail enthusiasts operate short
to allow for essential freight services to
From May 6 it departs only on Friday,
excursions on restored engines and tracks.
Christchurch – check for updates on www.
Saturday and Sunday.
The TranzCoastal between Christchurch
tranzscenic.co.nz; phone 0800 872 467)
24
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arrival New Zealand
New Zealand by rail. Simply stunning.
Discover some of New Zealand’s most stunning scenery, only accessible by rail. Step aboard any of the Tranz Scenic journeys and you’ll enjoy full 360-degree views of the most pristine and untouched areas in the country. BOOK NOW at tranzscenic.co.nz or call 0800 TRAINS (872 467). arrival New Zealand
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25
WhaT’S
NEW
hoT
WaIPa DElTa WElCoMES YoU A cruise on the award-winning Waipa Delta is the ideal way to see the beautiful Waitemata Harbour by day or by night. Scheduled lunch, coffee and dinner cruises are available on Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Savour the mouth-watering Hot Stone dining experience, order a drink from two licensed bars on board, and enjoy live entertainment on Friday and Saturday nights. Book online or simply phone free at 0800 472335; www.waipadelta.co.nz
SKY ToWEr FrEE CBD ShUTTlE Visiting Auckland’s iconic Sky Tower has never been easier with the new SKYCITY FREE CBD Shuttle. The shuttle is a complimentary service for all Sky Tower visitors to get you around the city to the doorstep of Sky Tower. It completes a circuit around the CBD every 45 minutes from 9.30am – 5pm daily. Visitors can be picked up from nine convenient locations including selected Auckland hotels, the Maritime Museum at the Viaduct and the Auckland War Memorial Museum. For full circuit details see www.skytower.co.nz.
WaTCh ThE WorlD Go BY Number 1 café is a visitor-friendly café in the handiest location in auckland – 1 Queen Street – right near the ferry building, the bus stops and railway station. It’s got friendly staff and tons of visitor information, and you can charge your mobile phone, laptop or iPad for free. There’s free wi-fi for paying customers and the café’s glass walls and alfresco tables mean you can watch locals go about their business – like work – while you make holiday plans.
26
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arrival New Zealand
MarITIME MUSEUM Voyager Maritime Museum’s European Landfalls gallery has just reopened after a complete overhaul, courtesy of NZ Lottery Grants Board. This exhibition highlights the great journeys of some of Europe’s most famous explorers, like abel Tasman, james cook and jean François Marie de Surville. Discover their stories as they sailed around the world in search of spices, riches and the fabled ‘Great South Land’. Their discoveries would change the face of the world forever!
EXPErIENCE ThE BEST Polynesian Spa in Rotorua has once again been voted amongst the top ten thermal, medical and natural spas in the world by European readers of Conde Nast Travel in their 2011 Readers Choice Spa Awards. In 2004 – 2007 & 2009 Polynesian Spa also featured in the top ten. Every time Polynesian Spa has appeared, it has been the only spa outside Europe to receive this accolade. This time, readers placed it seventh. contact 07 348 1328, www.polynesianspa.co.nz
hoP To IT Explore the beaches, vineyards, cafes and towns of stunning Waiheke Island on the distinctive new Island Hopper buses. the buses are wrapped in artwork by renowned Waiheke artists, and they cover three different hop-on hop-off routes around the island’s key attractions. One-day or two-day hopper passes allow you to hop-on and hop-off as much as you like, as well as transfer between the different loops. One-trip fares are also available, as are combos with the ferry. Island Hoppers currently operate tuesday – sunday. See www.fullers.co.nz
STrIPPED BarE! Whether you’re travelling or just visiting friends and family, Nakedsleep.com – the newcomer in the accommodation market – has the cheapest deal for your stay in New Zealand. You can get a night’s accommodation for just $5 per person (plus booking fee) in sought-after locations like Paihia, Rotorua or Queenstown. The earlier you book, the cheaper it is so jump online and book at www.nakedsleep.com.
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NO Rt H I s l a N D Ma P w w w. a r r i v a l . c o . n z
Cape Reinga
North Cape
find! NZ
iPhone app Kaitaia
DOWNLOAD NOW FREE from app store
6 Polynesian Spa
Bay of Islands
Kerikeri 1 1
WHANGAREI
7 Dargaville
agrodome
2
Wellsford
1
SOUTH PACIFIC OCEAN
Warkworth
Dive Tutukaka, Poor Knights Islands
Helensville 3
AUCKLAND
Whitianga
8
4
Taupo Bungy
Thames Whangamata
Pukekohe
2
o ik at Wa
Kauri Museum
Riv er
TAURANGA
HAMILTON
TASMAN SEA
Cambridge Lake Rotorua
Te Awamutu Tokoroa
5
3
Bay of Plenty
Whakatane
Ruatoria
7 ROTORUA6
Tolaga Bay
Sail NZ
8 TAUPO
North Taranaki Bight
NEW PLYMOUTH
Turangi
Waitara National Park
Cape Egmont
4
GISBORNE
Lake Taupo
Taumarunui
Hawke Bay
Skyjump
NAPIER
Hawera HASTINGS South Taranaki Bight
WANGANUI
Waipukurau
TASMAN SEA
Bulls
5
Feilding
PALMERSTON NORTH
9 Interislander
Waitomo adventures
Levin
SOUTH PACIFIC OCEAN
ST
RA
IT
Masterton
CO
OK
WELLINGTON 9 28
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arrival New Zealand
Cape Palliser
SOUTH Isl a nd m a p w w w. a r r i v a l . c o . n z
TASMAN SEA
Golden Bay
1
4
Kaiteriteri Kayak
Takaka
Encounter Kaikoura
1 2 Tasman Bay
Blenheim
CO OK
NELSON
Westport
5
2
Buller
River
Up Up and Away
Waiau
River
Abel Tasman Aqua Taxi
Hanmer Springs
GREYMOUTH
4
Kaikoura
3
TASMAN SEA
3 Hanmer Springs
A
L
P
S SOUTH PACIFIC OCEAN Rangiora
8
5
S
O
U
T
H
E
Lake Wanaka
R
Lake Pukaki
N
CHRISTCHURCH
Methven
Aoraki/ Mount Cook Lake Tekapo
Ashburton
R ak ai a Ri ver
Canterbury Bight
Temuka Lake Hawea
Omarama
Timaru
find! NZ
Milford Sound
Wanaka
iPhone app QUEENSTOWN 6
Doubtful Sound
7
Lake Wakatipu
Lake Te Anau
ri River
Waimakari
Ranfurly
DOWNLOAD NOW FREE from app store
Oamaru
Alexandra
Te Anau
DUNEDIN
7 Gore
NZONE Skydive
Balclutha
INVERCARGILL FO
VE
Bluff
AU
X
ST
RA
IT
6
SOUTH PACIFIC OCEAN STEWART ISLAND/ RAKIURA
Shotover Jet
8 Helicopter Line
arrival New Zealand
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29
Northland w w w. a r r i v a l . c o . n z
Cape Reinga, destination northland
Powerful past,
peaceful present
THE BAYS, BEACHES AND FORESTS OF
offering cellar-door tastings. There are
“THE BIRTHPLACE OF THE NATION”
good cafés and restaurants, craft shops, art
A left turn takes you around the tip of
ECHO WITH HAUNTING STORIES OF
galleries and potteries. Matakana Village is
the Kaipara Harbour to Dargaville, into kauri
THE PAST.
a “slow food” town and its lively Saturday
country. These giant trees once covered
N
morning Farmers’ Market sells fabulous
Northland, but the mighty forests were
orthland’s stunning scenery
local produce such as oysters, olives, organic
logged in the 19th century for houses and
is enhanced by its Maori and
cheese, breads and much more.
ships’ masts. The excellent Kauri Museum at
European history, with rich stories
On the coast past Matakana, Goat Island
opens up the best of this fascinating region.
Matakohe tells the story of this impressive
and legends that seem to intensify as you
Marine Reserve, the country’s first, has a
proceed further north. The easiest way to
rich, easily accessible underwater ecology. It’s
get there is via the Northern Gateway Toll
close to the vast expanse of Pakiri Beach, and
was once a thriving kauri timber port,
Road on SH1 ($2 one-way for cars), but
Tawharanui Regional Park, which also has a
consider a detour to picturesque Kai Iwi Lakes
the free route between Orewa and Puhoi
marine park. Like Goat Island, it’s ideal for
(white sand, clear water and towering pine
is more picturesque, winding through
snorkelling and diving.
trees), then continue to Trounson Kauri Park
seaside settlements such as Waiwera, with
Back on the main highway, drive to the
tree – and those whose lives it influenced. About 30km north of Dargaville, which
to see some really big trees. Bigger trees
Brynderwyn Hills and either continue towards
wait, though, in the Waipoua Kauri Forest.
Whangarei or turn left on SH12 towards
Waipoua is home to Tane Mahuta (Lord
Matakana Coast, a developing wine region
Dargaville. Either way you’ll be on the Twin
of the Forest), New Zealand’s tallest kauri,
that boasts around a dozen wineries, most
Coast Discovery Highway, a scenic loop that
standing 52 metres tall.
its hot pools. An hour from Auckland CBD is the
30
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arrival New Zealand
NORTHLAND
must-dos
Soak up the autumn rays on an isolated beach Go sandboarding on towering golden dunes Tackle one of the many bush tracks around Whangarei Rock the boat on an overnight cruise Experience the wonders of the Poor Knights Islands Sail Paihia to the Hole in the Rock Watch two oceans collide at Cape Reinga
MaTakoHE (kaUrI) MUSEUM.
From there it’s a 15-minute drive to pretty Omapere and Opononi on the Hokianga Harbour. A lookout above the villages has
skirt Doubtless Bay to Mangonui, a seaside settlement famous for its fresh fish and chips. Follow the shores of pretty Whangaroa
amazing vistas of the harbour and the giant
Harbour, then turn off at Waipapa towards
sandhills on the northern shore. Down the
Kerikeri, a charming historic town boasting
hill, stop at the visitor centre cum museum to
citrus orchards, cafés, galleries and good
learn about Opo, a friendly dolphin that once
accommodation. Before town, stop at
captured the heart of the nation.
Rainbow Falls, then drive to New Zealand’s
Through Opononi, follow the harbour
oldest buildings – Kemp House (1821)
to Rawene and board the car ferry that
and the Stone Store (1832) – which sit in
crosses the Narrows to Kohukohu. Continue
postcard-perfect splendour beside the inlet.
through rolling farmland to Ahipara at the
Both are open to the public.
bottom of the famous 90 Mile Beach, then
Continuing south, Paihia is the place to
on to Kaitaia, the main service town for the
experience the beautiful Bay of Islands. Take
Far North. From here you can drive through
a boat trip to the Hole in the Rock or even
Awanui and Houhora to the very top of New
an overnight cruise (The Rock is a friendly,
Zealand, Cape Reinga, but to really absorb
reasonably priced option), swim with dolphins,
the scenery, leave your car and join a bus
go deep-sea fishing or catch the foot ferry
tour up Ninety Mile Beach.
across to quaint Russell, a one-time whaling
According to Maori legend, Cape Reinga
station – and briefly, in 1840 – New Zealand’s
is where the spirits of the dead depart for
capital. Waitangi is where the nation’s
the ancestral homeland of Hawaiki. There’s
founding document was signed in 1840, and
a lighthouse and splendid views of the
the Treaty House and its elevated grounds
tumultuous meeting of the Pacific Ocean
offer superb views over the bay.
and Tasman Sea; at nearby Te Paki Stream,
FarMErS MarkET, DESTInaTIon norTHlanD
Head south through Opua, and even if
you can slide down giant sandhills. Back
you don’t need to, make a comfort stop in
at the foot of the peninsula, turn east on
Kawakawa’s famous Hundertwasser public
SH10. If there’s no hurry, detour up the
toilet. Next are the Waiomo glowworm caves
beautiful Karikari Peninsula, or otherwise
and you can turn off at Hikurangi for bays,
waITanGI TrEaTY GroUnDS
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THE pOOR KNIGHTS
MaTakoHE (kaUrI) MUSEUM
beaches and dive spots on the Tutukaka Coast, which National Geographic Traveler recently rated second equal in its geo-tourism assessment of coastal destinations worldwide. A final stop before Whangarei will be Zion
R
ecently ranked in the UK’s Guardian newspaper as one of the world’s top ten wildlife destinations, the protected Poor Knights Islands off Tutukaka (about 2½ hours’ drive north of Auckland) display a rare biodiversity created by converging
currents, a micro-climate, and thousands of years of isolation from the mainland. This abundance of unique plant, animal and marine life is augmented by the islands’ Maori
Wildlife Gardens, a park-like environment
history, which is dramatic, turbulent and – considering the inhospitable nature of the
that’s a sanctuary for some of the world’s
craggy isles – astonishing.
rarest big cats. At Whangarei Town Basin,
The Poor Knights are currently being considered for World Heritage status and the pure,
cafés and restaurants front the marina. The
clean waters provide some of the best diving in the country. In fact Jacques Cousteau
city has a great Museum and Heritage Park,
rated the Poor Knights among the top 10 dive sites in the world. Dive! Tutukaka has a
as well as lovely Whangarei Falls. Whangarei’s
brilliant “Dive the Five” package takes in the top 5 dive sites in Northland which includes
attractive town centre is a relaxing place to
the Poor Knights, and non-divers will love their “Perfect Day” trip which encompasses
shop, or for something special, visit The Quarry
sightseeing, kayaking, cave explorations, snorkelling, swimming, fish-cam viewing, sea
Arts Centre, a collective of artists working in a
mammal-spotting – and great food!
bushy haven that was once a quarry. Meander back to Auckland detouring to Waipu, with its Scottish heritage, and the seaside town of Mangawhai.
STonE STorE anD MISSIon HoUSE, kErIkErI
32
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arrival New Zealand
Freephone (in nZ) 0800 288 882; www.diving.co.nz
EXPlorE nZ
Great reasons to visit:
Northland
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AUCKLAND
w w w. a r r i v a l . c o . n z
Cornwall Park
Viewonfrom high W
AUCKLAND’S DISTINCTIVE VOLCANIC CONES ARE GREAT PLACES TO GET A VISUAL OVERVIEW OF THE CITY. ALTERNATIVELY, HEAD UP THE LANDMARK SKYTOWER – AND JUMP OFF IF YOU DARE!
hatever your vantage point, you’ll
get out on the water and the Waitemata in
They head to popular Mission Bay and St
notice that water is a defining
particular is always dotted with craft. There
Heliers; they stroll along Tamaki Drive; they
feature of New Zealand’s largest city,
are plenty of options for visitors to share this
make for eastern beaches or the black sand
which spreads over a narrow isthmus between
passion, whether it’s helping sail a former
surf beaches of the wild west coast; they sit
the Manukau Harbour in the west and the
America’s Cup yacht, taking a luxury cruise,
at cafés, restaurants and bars around Princes
Waitemata Harbour in the east. The latter
going fishing, kayaking, renting a jet ski, or
Wharf and Viaduct Harbour, where you
opens out into the island-studded Hauraki Gulf
simply taking one of the scheduled ferries
can also delve into New Zealand’s maritime
(see Islands of the Gulf), while the former lets
that criss-cross the harbour. For supercharged
history at the National Maritime Museum.
into the unpredictable Tasman Sea.
waterborne thrills, take a wild jetboat ride
Thus, nowhere in Auckland is far from the water and visitors will soon work out why it’s dubbed the “City of Sails”. Locals love to
with Auckland Adventure Jet. Even when they’re not actually on the water, Aucklanders like to get close to it.
Around the waterfront you can even get underwater without getting wet at Kelly Tarlton’s, the underwater world that recently celebrated its 25th birthday. See how it all
arrival New Zealand
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35
AUCKLAND
must-dos
Spin around the harbour in a jetboat Explore Rotoroa Island, now open after 100 years See the city sights via the hop-on, hop-off bus Go wine tasting at Waiheke or Matakana
began and get up close to sharks, stingrays,
a huge range of excellent dining and
New Zealand’s only sub-Antarctic penguins,
accommodation options with choices to suit
and more.
every taste and budget.
Of Auckland’s 49 volcanic cones, some – try Mount Eden, One Tree Hill or Mt Victoria – are a great place to get a visual overview
CENTRAL AUCKLAND Queen St is the city’s main north-south artery
of the city. Another option is to catch the
and shopping strip. It houses major retail chains,
high-speed lift up the 328-metre SkyTower,
and running off or beside it are smart precincts
which rises above the SKYCITY hotel and
like High St, Vulcan Lane and Chancery,
entertainment complex in the central city.
with their boutique offerings. The recently
The observation deck has 360-degree
redeveloped Aotea Square is a focal point for
Join a dolphin and whale spotting safari
views of the city and surrounds, and if
the city and offers an attractive outdoor space
you dare you can take a frightening (but
for major public events and everyday activity.
Be moved by the view at the Sky Tower’s Orbit restaurant
harnessed) walk around the 1.2m-wide
The square lets on to cinemas, theatres and the
walkway outside the observation deck. You
Auckland Town Hall.
can also take a controlled plunge from the
Walk up Wellesley St East to reach the
192m Sky Jump platform, or just sit back
Auckland Art Gallery and the lovely haven of
and take in the view from the café or the
Albert Park. The Domain, further east, is a much
revolving restaurant, Orbit.
larger park, with bush walks, formal gardens
Auckland offers all the amusements and facilities you’d expect in a large, modern
and glasshouses full of exotic plants. It also contains the excellent Auckland Museum.
metropolis, while retaining a welcoming,
Auckland Zoo is internationally respected
small-town vibe. As you’d expect, there’s
and great entertainment. It’s set at the edge
oTara MarkETS, ManakaU
Open daily from 10am | Infoline: 09 262 2044 | www.rainbowsend.co.nz
36
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arrival New Zealand
of Western Springs Park, which wraps around a picturesque lake. MOTAT – the Museum of
NoRTh ShoRE Starting just over the harbour bridge,
Transport and Technology – is nearby, as is
North Shore is easily reached by road or
Chamberlain Park, a very good 18 hole public
ferry. The region boasts 140 kilometres of
golf course.
pohutukawa-fringed beaches, spacious parks
You’ll find pleasant cafés and restaurants,
and attractive scenery. It’s a busy events
food and wine stores, supermarkets, bookshops
destination, with many sporting venues,
and galleries in inner suburbs like Ponsonby,
shopping malls, boutique shops, modern
Grey Lynn, Mt Eden, Kingsland and Parnell.
cafés and upmarket restaurants, as well as
These inner-city suburbs are within 10 minutes’
an interesting history and thriving artistic
drive of the CBD.
community.
GETTING AROUND The free, bright red City Circuit bus offers a hop-on hop-off service clockwise around the city centre every ten minutes, 8am – 6pm every day. To go a little further try the bright green Link buses ($1.80 or $15 for a 10-ride multi-journey pass,) which run every 15 minutes in both directions, taking in Queen St, funky Karangahape Rd, the restaurant, café and boutique strip on Ponsonby Rd, Victoria Park and its daily markets, out to fashionable Parnell and the shopping hotspot of Newmarket, and back to Queen St. Alternatively, the $10 BusAbout Pass has unlimited rides after 9am ($25 family), while the $14.50 Discovery day pass includes some ferry services. You can also buy a one-day pass for the hop-on, hopoff Auckland Explorer Bus (adults $35, kids $15, family $80) which visits Auckland’s big 14 attractions. Ferries link the city to the North Shore and islands in the Hauraki Gulf.
aUCklanD VIaDUCT
o
1 R t price FOadul alk 2 n theof SkyW
e ric tp p l u m ad yJu e th Sk on of
www.skyjump.co.nz or www.skywalk.co.nz
0800 759 586 Discounts not to be used in conjunction with any other offer. Must only be booked direct with the operator. Website booking discount code: ARRIVAL
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Auckland Harbour Bridge
Having Fun? Why Not? surprising & amazing variety, value & fun. 10A Victoria St East Auckland CBD Ph: 09 302 0109
Devonport has a village-like atmosphere,
away the day. Dedicated mall-goers should
with excellent eateries, galleries, boutiques,
head to Albany, where the country’s largest
and leafy streets lined with elegant villas.
shopping mall – Westfield Albany – offers
Nearby, North Head Historic Reserve has
an exciting mix of fashion, food, and movie
tunnels, gun emplacements and fortifications,
theatres. Albany’s North Harbour stadium
as well as brilliant views over the Gulf.
hosts major sporting fixtures, concerts, and
There’s a fascinating self-guided walk, and
other entertainment. It will be a key venue for
the 1885 stone kitchen is now a theatre
Rugby World Cup 2011.
(open 8.30am-4pm) that shows a film on North Head’s history. The interesting new Navy Museum is in King Edward Parade,
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arrival New Zealand
To the west, still within Greater Auckland,
Torpedo Bay, at the base of North Head. Mt
Waitakere exists against a backdrop of
Victoria, the North Shore’s highest volcanic
bush-covered ranges and a rugged coastline
cone, also provides panoramic views.
of black, volcanic sand surf beaches such as
Northcote Point is another interesting
Karekare, Piha and Bethells (Te Henga). The
heritage area, and the self-guided Northcote
latter looks like a mini Sahara, with rolling
Point heritage walk offers a leisurely stroll past
dunes dropping down to a small inland lake.
lovingly restored villas, and along a beautiful coastline that offers spectacular views. Takapuna is an urban centre with a breezy,
LookSharpStore.co.nz
WAITAKERE
Numerous artists’ studios and galleries welcome visitors, and some of the ten or so vineyards out this way were planted by the
coastal vibe. Beautiful Takapuna Beach
country’s first winemakers. The hilly village of
and Lake Pupuke are great places to while
Titirangi on the Scenic Drive has good cafés
DISCOVER NEW ZEALAND’S O N LY C O LO N Y O F
SUB-ANTARCTIC PENGUINS Fish Market, Westhaven
FREE SHUTTLE
View of Rangitoto
and a very good gallery, Lopdell House.
and its awesome Invader ride is a fantastic
There are 16,000 hectares of temperate
addition. Rated in the top three attractions
rainforest in the Waitakere Ranges Regional
at overseas theme parks, the Invader’s huge
Park, with 250km of walking and tramping
whirling disc will spin you like you’ve never
tracks providing access to beaches, streams,
been spun before, giving you gut-churning
waterfalls, historic homesteads and farms
G Force sensations.
overlooking the wild west coast. At the
Botany Town Centre offers award-winning
Arataki Visitors Centre on the Scenic Drive
shopping and the Grange Golf Club is
you’ll find information about track conditions,
internationally renowned. Rural Manukau
weather and tides and guided walks.
begins on the outskirts of Howick, itself
ONLY 10 MINS DRIVE FROM AUCKLAND CBD
Plus come face-to-face with thousands of other fascinating deep sea creatures!
well worth visiting for its charming specialty
MANUKAU Manukau, 25 minutes south of Auckland city, is a blend of town and country, with
shops. The miniature Howick Historical Village is in nearby Pakuranga. Take a ferry from Auckland, then a short bus ride to Howick.
320km of coastline. The central urban
Around Clevedon and beyond is rolling
area has a vibrant Maori and Pacific culture.
countryside fringed by the sparkling Hauraki
It’s also home to Auckland Botanic Gardens,
Gulf. It’s packed full of low-key things
and Villa Maria Winery and Vineyard Park is
to do and see, including Ayrlies Garden
minutes from the airport.
at Whitford, a stunning country garden
The long-established Rainbow’s End
sculpted from a bare paddock. Succulent
theme park provides thrills without spills,
Clevedon oysters harvested fresh from the
Save 10% by booking at kellytarltons.co.nz 0800 80 50 50 Open 9.30am daily. 23 Tamaki Drive, Orakei, Auckland.
sea are a good enough reason to visit, and
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39
you can continue down the Pohutukawa Coast to the Seabird Coast, with its amazing
and peaceful riverside boardwalk. The district encompasses popular regional
flocks of migratory birds, stopping to visit
parks such as Mahurangi and Wenderholm,
the coastal regional parks of Omana, Duder,
which blend farm, riverine, coastal and forest
Tawhitokino and Tapapakanga on the way.
environments. They offer sheltered picnic
There are numerous charming rural B&Bs,
and play areas, barbecues, camping, walking
and a short ferry ride from either Half Moon
tracks, and of course, aquatic activities. At
Bay or Pine Harbour Marina gets you to
Wenderholm you can visit historic Couldrey
Auckland city.
House, a gracious homestead which has been restored and is now run as a museum,
FURThER NoRTh Just beyond North Shore in the Rodney
(open weekends 1 – 4pm). Historic exotic trees are a feature, with some planted
region, the line between city, coast and
back in the 1860s. Mahurangi has Scott
country blurs. It’s an area of farmland,
Homestead, a Georgian-style house which
vineyards, forest, sandy coves and rocky
dates back to 1877. The restored homestead
shores, where small settlements combine
is only available for private functions but
city sophistication and village charm.
the front garden and exterior are extremely
These include Puhoi, which was settled by
picturesque.
Bohemians in 1863. Stop for a drink at the historic pub, browse galleries and antique shops, and sample Puhoi Valley Cheese. Other towns include Matakana Wine Village, and Warkworth, with its heritage buildings TakaPUna CaFE
Visit Auckland waterfront’s best value attraction – Voyager Maritime Museum Voyager is a family friendly, all weather, must-see attraction only 200 metres from Queen Street. Tickets from $16 adults, $8 children. At Voyager you can discover amazing stories of... Polynesian voyaging across the Pacific European exploration and immigration NZ’s international yachting success Our nations worst maritime disaster Auckland’s stunning harbour Discover more at Voyager. Open 9.00am-5.00pm seven days a week Corner Quay & Hobson Streets Viaduct Harbour, Auckland Only 200 metres from Queen Street Ph: +64 9 373 0800
www.maritimemuseum.co.nz
Fc E
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MARKET DAyS
V
ictoria Park Market is a long-established daily market with stalls and shops selling New Zealand-made and Pacific Island goods and plenty of other stuff, including shoes and sportswear. There’s a food court, café and shops.
The City Market at Britomart Precinct (at the bottom of Queen St) is among a growing number of farmers’ markets at which stallholders sell only their own produce (see www. farmersmarkets.org.nz). It’s a good place to grab breakfast on a Saturday morning – open 8.30am-12.30pm. La Cigale, the French market in St George’s Bay Road, Parnell, is also a treasure trove of goodies. Check it out on Saturday and Sunday mornings. Meanwhile, Otara’s huge Saturday morning market is reputedly the biggest Polynesian market in the world. It’s where South Auckland’s large Maori and Pacific Island population comes to shop and socialise, creating a colourful weekly scene. Enterprising Asian stallholders add to the cultural potpourri. Customers start arriving around 6am and it pays to get there early because the stalls start coming down at noon. There are bargains aplenty, from piles of fresh produce to Maori and Pacific Island arts and crafts, clothes and bric-a-brac. It’s in the centre of Otara, enter from Newbury St.
wEST CoaST VIEw
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Great reasons to visit:
Auckland
$REAMS #AN #OME 4RUE
!MERICAS #UP 3AILING %XPERIENCE
Present this for a FREE viaduct
Present this for a FREE viaduct
RESTAURANT LUNCH VOUCHER
RESTAURANT LUNCH VOUCHER
7HALE $OLPHIN 3AFARI Trip Duration 4.5hrs, departing daily at 1:30pm /VER $OLPHIN 7HALE 3IGHTING 3UCCESS
Our America’s Cup yachts offer a unique opportunity for you to participate in sailing on these grand prix racing machines. No experience required. s !MERICA S #UP HR 3AILING %XPERIENCE s !MERICA S #UP HR -ATCH 2ACE
Conditionsapply. apply. Conditions Valid 2011 Validtoto31 30August April 2011
Conditions Conditions apply. Validto to 30 31 April August 2011 Valid 2011
LIN ING A N E R D A PUMAPCTION
$ISCOVER THE #ITY OF 3AILS PRESENT THIS FOR
0RIDE OF !UCKLAND
Pier 3D wn Downto Ferry inal Term
Sailing and Dining Cruises in the ‘City of Sails’ Departing daily from the Auckland Viaduct. ,UNCH #RUISE \ #OFFEE #RUISE $INNER #RUISE
T
00 AKL JE
Phone 08
auckland’s most stunning park
Conditions Conditions apply. Validto to 30 31 April August 2011 Valid 2011
unt iscoront d r ou at f ine See ucher agaz o v this m of
Discover our secret hiding place just a few minutes from the CBD. Explore One Tree Hill and Auckland’s most picturesque farm park. And when you’re done, relax and savour stylish cuisine at Cornwall Park Restaurant. P
630 2888
Cornwall Park. Greenlane. Auckland www.cornwallparkrestaurant.co.nz
Cruise from $39pp | Lunch cruises 12 noon - 2pm. Dinner cruises from 7pm | Operating Thurs, Fri, Sat & Sun. CPR6499
explore
10% OFF RETAIL PRICE
Bookings essential Ph 0800 4 PADDLE | www.waipadelta.co.nz
see our DISCOUNT VOUCHER at front of magazine
The original Lord of the Rings Tour Company Hobbiton - the “Lord of the Rings” film location in Matamata There and back again in a day • Travel aboard luxurious minicoaches with our experienced and knowledgeable guides • Hotel pick-up (8am) and drop-off (4pm) • Enjoy a light lunch at ‘The Shire’s Rest’ • $245 per person • Reservations essential Phone 09-4106561 • Visit our website: www.redcarpet-tours.com
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ISLANDS OF THE GULF w w w. a r r i v a l . c o . n z
Gulf islands
VISIT SOME OF AUCKLAND’S FINEST JEWELS, NESTLED IN THE GULF
Waiheke The most populous island in the gulf has boomed in recent years, thanks largely to fast ferries (Fullers $33.50 return, child $16.80, family $84) which take 35 minutes from Auckland’s downtown ferry terminal on Quay St. Fullers also offers some great
Mudbrick Vineyard
packages and tours, such as the Wine on Waiheke Tour. Vineyards produce sought-after vintages,
Tiritiri Matangi Managed by the Department of
Kawau Kawau Island’s picturesque Mansion House
cafés and restaurants boast fine menus and
Conservation, this is one of two open wildlife
was the home of New Zealand’s first governor,
wine lists, and accommodation ranges from
sanctuaries in New Zealand. Wander freely
Sir George Grey, who introduced many exotic
backpacker to five-star lodges. The island is a
among a profusion of birds, many rare or
plants and animals. The island still has some
great place for walkers and cyclists (bikes go
endangered. If you take the 75-minute 360
wild Australian creatures such as kookaburras,
free on the ferry, or hire one at Matiatia wharf).
Discovery trip (Wed – Sun, 9am from Pier 4,
possums and wallabies, all regarded as pests.
Waiheke’s main town is Oneroa, a short
Quay St, arrives back 4.50pm) it’s well worth
The Kawau Island Historic Reserve protects
bus ride from the wharf at Matiatia. There
paying $5 extra for a guided walk with a
Mansion House, its gardens and surrounds,
are lovely, accessible beaches at Oneroa,
knowledgeable volunteer.
as well as remnants of the historic copper industry. Water taxis shuttle to the island from
Palm Beach and Onetangi. Buses and taxis serve the island and scenic tours may include
Great Barrier
Sandspit near Warkworth, or you can join
Remote Great Barrier is ninety kilometres
the mail cruise, delivering mail and goods
northeast of Auckland, and boasts bushwalks,
while learning about the island during an
Winter Arts Festival, June 4 – 5, an inspiring
swimming, surfing, kayaking, fishing, diving,
informative three-hour cruise.
festival that offers the rare chance to meet
biking, horse-riding and abseiling. There are
artists in their studios.
natural hot springs and dramatic canyon
wine, olive oil and art trails. Upcoming events include the Waiheke
walks. A climb to the top of Mt Hobson yields
Rotoroa In February 2011 Rotoroa Island opened
Rangitoto
fabulous views over the gulf to Coromandel
to the public for the first time in over 100
The distinctive, almost symmetrical cone of
and Auckland. The waters around the island
years. For decades the island was a Salvation
Rangitoto Island is an Auckland icon. At a mere
are visited by whales, turtles and manta rays.
Army drug and alcohol rehabilitation centre,
600 years old, it’s the youngest volcano in the
Hire a car or take a tour. There’s a wide range
so as well as enjoying beaches and bush
region, and its curious basalt lava landscape
of accommodation and you can camp in
walks, visitors can explore the heart of the
supports the world’s largest pohutukawa forest.
designated campsites.
old treatment centre’s community, including
The island is twenty minutes by ferry from
Fly there in 30 minutes from Auckland airport
the jail, chapel, schoolhouse and cemetery.
downtown, and once there, an hour-long walk
(Great Barrier Airlines, $198-$248 return), or
A state-of-the-art exhibition centre features
to the summit is rewarded with 360-degree
take the Sealink EcoIslander car/passenger ferry
artworks, and an exhibition on Rotoroa’s past
views over the gulf, or take Fullers’ Volcanic
($127 return but check for specials). Departs
and future. 360 Discovery runs ferry services
Explorer 4WD road train.
Jellicoe Street, Freemans Bay (Westhaven).
four times a week.
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WAIHEKE VINEyARDS
T
he first vines were planted on Waiheke Island in the 1950s, but its current status as a wine-trail getaway dates back to 1978, when Kim and Jeanette Goldwater planted the first modern vineyard at Putiki Bay. Today the island boasts around thirty wineries – most of them small producers – and has become well-known for its Claret-style reds, although some award-winning Chardonnay and Syrah is now coming out of Waiheke estates. Notable Waiheke wineries include Goldwater Estate, Cable Bay, Mudbrick, Obsidian, Passage Rock, Stonyridge (which makes some of NZ’s most expensive and sought-after wines), Te Motu and Te Whau. Many wineries have tasting rooms and some have very good restaurants with lovely outlooks. The restaurant at Mudbrick’s Church Bay vineyard, for example, has spectacular Waitemata Harbour views and a well-earned reputation for its food. Its wines received accolades in the recent Bragato wine awards, and the vineyard regularly hosts entertainment and events.
onETanGI bEaCH waIHEkE ISlanD
Great reasons to visit
Waiheke Island
Auckland Cruises Tours Hauraki Gulf Cruises & andIsland Island Tours Great Barrier Island
Waiheke Island
TIRITIRI MATANGI ISLAND
GREAT BARRIER ISLAND GREAT BARRIER ISLAND
N
(seasonal)
Inset at smaller scale
WAIHEKE ISLAND
Rangitoto Island
MOTUTAPU (seasonal)
Devonport
RANGITOTO ISLAND DEVONPORT
MOTUIHE ISLAND FULLERS HARBOUR CRUISE 360 HARBOUR DISCOVERY CRUISE
COROMANDEL
Fullers Harbour Cruise
DOWNTOWN AUCKLAND
PHONE 09 367 9111
COROMANDEL
AUCKLAND CRUISES & ISLAND TOURS
WWW.FULLERS.CO.NZ Ferries to Waiheke Island, Rangitoto Island and Devonport. Wine tasting and sightseeing tours on Waiheke Island and a guided
Inset at smaller scale
Cruise to Paradise & Back! Discover the stunning destinations of the Hauraki Gulf. Enjoy day trips to Tiritiri Matangi Island, Motuihe Island and the Coromandel, or simply sit back and relax on a Harbour Discovery Cruise.
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COROMANDEL w w w. a r r i v a l . c o . n z
Coromandel Arts Tour
Homegrown in
the Coromandel
R
enowned for its beauty, The Coromandel is an outdoor haven where rugged forest-clad hills sweep
down to a magnificent, varied coastline. The environment provides inspiration for the many talented, creative people who have made the region home and visitors
WHILE SOME PLACES START TO WIND DOWN IN AUTUMN, THE COROMANDEL
will discover galleries, studios and unique
KICKS UP ITS HEELS WITH AN EXCITING EVENT SCHEDULE. DURING MAY, VISITORS
attractions hidden around each corner and
CAN ALSO BENEFIT FROM DISCOUNTS AVAILABLE RIGHT AROUND THE PENINSULA.
tucked into every bay.
FESTIVAL MAY 2011
homegrown food, art & music festival www.homegrownfestival.co.nz
46
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arrival New Zealand
THE CORO MA FOR ON SALE NDEL THE OF M MONTH AY
The laid-back lifestyle – known locally as
their studios and invite you in to chat, and
“Coromandel Time” – is complemented by a
to view their original artworks during the
diverse range of events held throughout the
Great Coromandel Arts Tour. This open
year. The entire month of May features the
studio art adventure allows you to discover
annual Homegrown Festival, a fabulous, fun-
hidden pockets of creativity while enjoying
filled festival of food, art and music. It’s a time
the stunning scenery of the northern
when locals dust off their paintings, tune their
Coromandel.
instruments, and get ready to party. A festival highlight will be a performance
An attraction that’s sure to intrigue at any time is the Driving Creek Railway, the
by legendary Kiwi songwriter and musician
vision and life-work of artist, engineer and
Don McGlashan, who has fronted some of
conservationist Barry Brickell. This innovative
the nation’s best-known bands, and whose
narrow-gauge railway negotiates spirals,
perceptive, haunting songs are part of the
tunnels and viaducts as it creeps up through
Kiwi psyche. He’ll be performing in a typical
replanted kauri forest to a mountain-top
Kiwi country venue – the Coromandel Area
terminus, which has panoramic views of the
School Hall, on May 29.
island-studded Hauraki Gulf, forested valleys
Other music events sure to rock your socks
and mountains. Down below, visitors can
off include Music in the Vineyard at Mercury
visit the working potteries, a craft shop and a
Bay Estate, the Homegrown Music Festival,
sculpture garden.
Sunday sessions with Soul Sax and the Ukumania Festival. Food is another feature of the Homegrown
THaMES bEaCH
More art is on offer at the glorious Lost Spring, an upmarket spa facility where trees and ferns combine with crystalline
Festival, and Coromandel’s best eateries will
thermal pools and waterfalls to create a lush
be competing in the Monteith’s Café Crawl.
sanctuary. During the Homegrown Festival,
Thames, Coromandel Town and defending
the complex will be studded with artworks
champion Tairua will host an indulgent food
during “Landscape Art at the Lost Spring.
and wine trail based around their best cafes
If that’s not enough reason to visit and
and restaurants. The competition dishes will
stay a while, the Coromandel is putting itself
be replicated throughout May so if you miss
on sale for the month of May. There’ll be
the Café Crawl, you can still try the dishes at
huge discounts on accommodation, activities
participating restaurants.
and transport. Details are on the website
COROMANDEL
must-dos
Learn the words to Anchor Me by Don McGlashan Try a “homegrown” dish at a participating café Get to the “Eyefull Tower” via the Driving Creek Railway
www.homegrownfestival.co.nz.
Visit an artist in their home studio
isolation. However, for the first three
For more information about the region see
Chill out at a concert held in beautiful surroundings
weekends in May dozens of artists open
www.thecoromandel.com
Coromandel abounds with artists, many of whom usually ply their craft in splendid
Switch your watch to “Coromandel Time”
DRIVING CREEK RAILWAY & POTTERIES A one-hour round trip on a scenic narrow-gauge railway to a mountain top terminus with glorious views. Daily trains suitable for all ages & conditions. Craft and book shop, sculpture garden and wildlife sanctuary (on request), picnic areas and secure parking. Just 3km north of Coromandel Town.
BOOKINGS ADVISABLE. PHONE / FAX: 07 866 8703 E: RAILWAY@DRIVINGCREEK.CO.NZ W: WWW.DRIVINGCREEKRAILWAY.CO.NZ
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WAIKATO
w w w. a r r i v a l . c o . n z
timeless land
Descend into a
In aUTUMn, waIkaTo’S aboVE-GroUnD lanDSCaPE FlaMES wITH rED, brown anD GolD. DEEP UnDErGroUnD, THE SEaSonS nEVEr CHanGE.
W
aitomo’s famous limestone cave
attractions are the Waitomo Glowworm Caves
system was formed by millions
with their grand Cathedral cavern and famous
of years of land movement, rain,
Glowworm Grotto. The access point to these
and river erosion, resulting in a dazzling
caves is the striking new Waitomo Glowworm
display of nature’s artwork. Throughout
Caves Visitor Centre, which has already won
the 50km labyrinth, caverns and grottos
awards for its stunning architecture. With a
are decorated with intricate sculptures
gallery, exhibition space, theatre, gift shop,
that hang suspended from the ceiling,
restaurant and café, the Centre is set to
or grow from the cave floor. The scene
become an attraction in itself.
is softly illuminated by millions of native
has been reopened after an 18-year closure
creatures that turn ceilings and walls into
and now hosts the country’s longest guided
mesmerising, star-filled nightscapes.
underground walking tour. The Black Water
In many cases, underground streams and
underground rivers in a truck inner-tube – also
boats or inflatable tubes that glide silently
operates tours through this cave. Aranui Cave
through meandering passages. A guided trip
is the smallest and most delicate of Waitomo’s
through any of the caves will explain how
three main caves. It’s home to a colony of
the spectacular stalactites and stalagmites
cave wetas (large, horned insects) and a
developed over hundreds of millennia, and
stunning collection of stalactites, stalagmites,
guides often intertwine natural history with
flowstones and decorative formations.
Perhaps the best-known subterranean
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Rafting Co. – with whom you float along
rivers allow visitors to view the wonders from
legends of this historic district.
abSEIlInG aT waIToMo CaVES
The mystical Ruakuri (“den of dogs”) Cave
New Zealand glowworms – tiny, twinkling
rUakUrI CaVE
There are subterranean adventures to suit all ages and abilities. For something
sedate, how about walking over suspended walkways where the only sounds are the echoes of hidden waterfalls? If you’re not afraid of the dark or confined spaces, blackwater rafting, invented in Waitomo, could be for you. Wetsuits are provided to keep you warm and hot showers are a welcome end to your underground adventure. You can also abseil into deep caverns and undertake other adrenalininducing underground activities. Several tour companies offer the whole adventure package. Waitomo Adventures, for example, has a menu of guided caving adventures that includes blackwater rafting, abseiling into caves through deep, sunlit shafts, underground flying fox, climbing, jumping, swimming and various combinations of these. Caveworld is a provider of blackwater
loST worlD abSEIlInG
rafting, caving and abseiling fun. Caveworld’s own spectacular cave system
entertainment at Curly’s Bar, right in the
enjoy 360-degree views of the sweeping
incorporates glowworms, stunning
heart of Waitomo Caves Village. Curly’s
valleys. Walks through beautiful native
limestone formations, and even ancient
has a lovely view of the nearby hills
bush lead to natural wonders such as the
moa bones. Caveworld’s special experiences
and is a short walk to the holiday park
plunging Marokopa Falls, or the astonishing
include “The Canyon”, “Black Magic” and
and Kiwi Paka, a top-rated backpackers
17m-long two-tiered limestone arch known
night abseiling.
offering large, sunny decks and a range of
as Mangapohue Natural Bridge.
Whatever you choose, it’s certain to provide a mysterious and truly memorable
accommodation.
At Ruakuri Scenic Reserve, you’ll find a
The caves are the focus of the King
natural tunnel set against a backdrop of
trip through the middle of the earth,
Country sub-region, which also offers
native bush and at Kawhia you can dig
through a treasure that’s been 30 million
plenty to do above the ground. The vivid
your own hot pool in the black sand at
years in the making.
green land offers a placid escape where
Ocean Beach. The remains of the ancestral
you can trek through rugged limestone-
Tainui waka (canoe) are buried on the local
studded hills, explore limestone tunnels and
marae at Kawhia, and the village remains a
Back in the light of day enjoy the excellent range of drinks, food and
Great reasons to visit:
The Waikato Kiwi paka
Restaurant, Bar & Internet Café
WAITOMO
Accommodation • Cafe • Travel Centre PH 07 878 3395 FAX 07 878 3396 waitomobackpackers@xtra.co.nz School Road, PO Box 21, Waitomo, New Zealand 3943
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49
waikato river, hamilton
stronghold of Maori history. There are some
activities such as rowing, kayaking,
gardens attract more than 1.3 million
low-key activities based around the massive
jetboating, scenic boat tours and water-skiing
visitors a year. Hamilton Zoo, with its
harbour and the surrounding hills.
are popular pursuits on this river and on other
rare Sumatran tigers and white rhinos, is
rivers, lakes and dams in the region.
another visitor favourite.
Greater Waikato’s above-ground landscape also offers plenty of variety. The main city
The Waikato River curves alongside the
Outside Hamilton there are many other
is Hamilton, just ninety minutes’ drive from
city’s special treasure, the magnificent
attractions and activities. Forty-five minutes
Auckland, and on the main trunk railway.
Hamilton Gardens. This 58ha public garden
west of Hamilton is Raglan, a town that
The Waikato River, the country’s longest
has a world-class reputation, with its
has long attracted surfers to its curling surf
waterway, slides through the heart of the
pavilions, lakes, terrace café and feature
breaks. These days the town buzzes with
city and excellent walking and cycle-ways
gardens encompassing everything from
funky cafes, restaurants and galleries. There
meander along its banks. Waterborne
herbs to Italian Renaissance themes. The
are plenty of outdoor activities, including a
Glowworm Caverns Walk relaxed pace
Memorable Glowworm experiences A full range of premium activities to suit all levels: Adventure through to our more relaxed walk through tours. CaveWorld - Creating Memorable Glowworm Experiences
Guaranteed!
Freephone 0800 228 338
Next to Waitomo Museum, Waitomo Village info@caveworld.co.nz www.caveworld.co.nz REDSPARK 1009-1581
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Marvel at Glowworms throughout the entire tour. Experience the relaxed atmosphere of our beautiful Te Anaroa Cave - a tour specifically designed to experience a cave in it’s natural state. We have a small team of experienced local guides who look forward to giving you a memorable Glowworm experience. • Small Group Sizes • Photos Allowed • Get Up Close with the Glowworms
night Abseil
high Adventure Full instruction and full control of your decent • Abseil 150 feet, not once but TWICE! • Extraodinary Glowworm Displays • Completely unique experience!
Blackwater rafting
Fun Adventure Raft the longest black water rafting system stream way • Raft through galaxies of Glowworms! • Jump off a waterfall!! • Ride our ultimate cave hydroslide!
surf school. An easy walk meanders around the peaceful harbour, or drive beyond the surf breaks at Manu and Whale Bays to an unpopulated area of rough roads and wild coastline where the slopes of Mt Karioi sweep down to the shore. A walking track leads to the summit of the mountain but if the westerly wind is howling, duck into the shelter of the Te Toto Gorge Track and scramble down the steep, forested sides to the open grassy areas on the cliff tops. Pretty Bridal Veil Falls are just off the unsealed country road that links Raglan and Kawhia, worth the twenty-minute walk. There are also hot springs at Waingaro, west of Ngaruawahia, as well as at Matamata and historic Te Aroha. In Tirau and Cambridge you’ll find shops full of antiques and crafts. Te Awamutu has gorgeous roses and Otorohanga’s famous kiwi house and bird sanctuary are a delight. Otorohanga is also the country’s Kiwiana capital, celebrating everything from pavlovas to buzzy bee toys. The lush Waikato pastures make it the country’s dairy capital, and it’s home to some of our greatest racehorses. You can watch cheese-making and sample and buy cheese near Matamata, or tour a horse stud at Cambridge. You’ll also find horse-trekking adventures, hot-air ballooning, bushwalking, mountain-biking, wine-tasting and golf. Waitomo Glowworm Caves
Waitomo Glowworm Caves Visitor Centre
waIToMo GlowworM CaVES
ACCoMMoDATIoN The region has accommodation to suit every pocket and preference. Fancy staying somewhere unique? Perhaps you’d like to sleep in a plane, a train, a boat – or a Hobbit motel? Take your pick. Waitomo has everything from backpacker hostels, motel units and campgrounds to the historic Waitomo Caves Hotel, homestays and charming B&Bs. The accommodation choice is mirrored elsewhere in the Waikato. Hamilton has a strong café culture centred on the southern end of Victoria Street, and there MokEna SPa baTHS TE aroHa
TURES ADVEN er person G IN V AR CA 49 p CTACUL ll for just $1 E P S a 5 CKAGE!! PA IN ONE
are good cafés and restaurants, and high-
SEE OUR DISCOUNT VOUCHERS AT FRONT OF THIS MAGAZINE
CAVING + ABSEILING + ROCK CLIMBING PLUS!! BACKPACKERS ACCOMMODATION + GLOW WORMS + BLACK WATER RAFTING Twin, Double and Share Rooms available. (allow 5 hours to complete adventure)
95 Waitomo Caves Road, Waitomo. Ph: 0800 228 372 visit: www.caveraft.com
WAIKATO
must-dos
Walk under trees dripping with autumn foliage at Taitua Aboretum Abseil deep into a magical underground world Go kayaking on Lake Karapiro Take a sunset champagne cruise on the Waikato River See the white rhinos at Hamilton Zoo
quality produce throughout the district.
Geyser erupt, visit an interesting museum,
Adjacent to Waikato is the Matamata/Piako
and soak your feet in a warm path-side pool.
district, where Lord of the Rings fans can visit
The revamped Te Aroha Mineral Spa is the
the Hobbiton film set from the movie trilogy.
star attraction, where you can soak in one of
It’s on a working sheep and beef farm, so
eight private soda pools or take a dip in the
visitors can see the remnants of the set as
open-air public pools.
well as enjoying a rural experience. Filming
Visitors to Matamata/Piako can also visit the
of The Hobbit takes place on site this year, so
Firth Tower Museum or the specialty cheese-
check ahead for opening times.
maker, Kaimai Cheese. Another option is a
The region encompasses the historic spa
half-day walk to Wairere Falls in the Kaimai
town of Te Aroha, which boasts the country’s
Ranges, where a bush track leads to platform
only complete Edwardian domain. Within this
offering spectacular views of the 153-metre
peaceful precinct you can drink the curative
waterfall.
waters at a soda spring, watch the Mokena
HISTorIC raGlan HoTEl
Gardens
of the world
G
arden lovers, or those who simply love to linger in a beautiful setting, flock to Hamilton Gardens, a 58-hectare public park at the southern end of Hamilton City. Bounded by the Waikato River, this manicured treasure explores the theme “the story of gardens” through
a series of five wonderful garden collections. A favourite is the Paradise collection with gardens representing significant garden design traditions. The first of the six Paradise gardens was the peaceful Chinese Scholar’s Garden, and the most recent is the striking Indian Char Bagh, with its distinctive Mughul pavilion. Other collections are the Productive Garden, which shows aspects of the relationship between people and plants; forms of garden fantasy are represented in the Fantasy Garden Collection; the Cultivar collection features the story of plants selected and bred for the garden; and the Landscape collection has areas representing the different historic interpretations of an idealised landscape. The gardens have an information centre and a pleasant café. Entry is free and they’re open daily from 7.30am – 8pm in summer, and until 5.30pm in winter. Guided tours can be arranged through the Hamilton Gardens Information Centre (ph. 07 838 6782). See www.hamiltongardens.co.nz or phone (07) 859 1317.
Hamilton Gardens
Experience the magical Waitomo Glowworm Caves
Waitomo Glowworm Caves Visitor Centre
Waitomo Glowworm Caves
Three of the best caves in New Zealand. Discover magical glowworms by boat in the Waitomo Glowworm Caves and see the iconic new Visitor Centre. Combine your experience with Ruakuri Cave, see glowworms up close and it’s spectacular spiral entrance and be mesmerised by ornate cave decorations in Aranui Cave.
Book now on 0800 456 922 or www.waitomo.com
summer
Stretching out
bay of plenty w w w. a r r i v a l . c o . n z
Relaxing at Mount Maunganui
THE BAY OF PLENTY’S MILD, SUNNY CLIMATE MEANS MANY SUMMER ACTIVITIES CAN STILL BE ENJOYED
T
he Bay of Plenty extends along the Pacific
options for beachgoers, boaties, fishermen,
Coast Highway, following the east coast
divers, kayakers, jetskiers, windsurfers, hikers
of the North Island from Waihi Beach
and hunters. Those in search of sun, sand and
to Whakatane. It sits along an active volcanic
surf are spoiled for choice. Mount Maunganui
zone, and the forces beneath have created
and Papamoa are the premier beach and surf
a diverse environment of islands, mountains
destinations, but fine beaches stretch along
and geothermal areas. The main urban area is
the entire coast.
Tauranga, which boasts a vibrant arts, culture
No visit to the Bay is complete without a
EXPLORE ITS DISTINCTIVE TOWNS
and entertainment scene, with many local
stroll around the base, or to the top, of
AND RICH HISTORY.
and touring events on offer. The Tauranga Art
Mauao (Mount Maunganui). The 3.4km
Gallery showcases historical and contemporary
base track offers brilliant ocean and city
art exhibitions and hosts national and
views, making it easy to understand why
internationally-sourced exhibitions.
it’s walked by over a million people each
The city’s enviable location offers myriad
year. At the base of Mauao, New Zealand’s
IN AUTUMN. MAKE THE MOST OF THE BAY’S BEAUTIFUL BEACHES AND DRAMATIC OFFSHORE ISLANDS, BUT ALLOW TIME TO
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arrival New Zealand
BAY OF PLENTY
only saltwater hot pools are a great place
must-dos
to unwind after a busy day in “the Bay”. Adventure lovers can blast on a Blokart (the locally invented land sail-craft) or take a scenic flight over the region – and perhaps skydive
Groove away the night at the National Jazz Festival Tauranga, 21 April - 25 April 2011
in one of the North Island’s most scenic drop zones. Later, take Waimarino’s atmospheric glow-worm kayaking trip on Lake McLaren.
Walk to the summit of Mauao, followed up with a soak in the hot pools and a tasty ice cream
After wine and nibbles on the lake’s edge, at dusk you’ll kayak to a glowworm canyon, where thousands of these tiny, twinkling
Choose exhilaration or relaxation at Waimarino Adventure Park
creatures adorn the walls. Maori culture runs deep in the Bay and there are numerous wahi tapu (sacred places) and
Take in local history with a tour of the Mission Elms
many marae. Coastal Maketu was the landing place of the Te Arawa waka (canoe) following
Eat fish and chips fresh off the fishing boats
the migration of early Maori, which makes it an exceptionally significant cultural and historical site. Visitors can learn about the
TaUranGa arT GallErY
region’s strong Maori heritage on a guided cultural tour or a marae visit. Tauranga is also home to the Elms Mission House, an important historic site linked to European settlement. Smaller towns include Te Puke, the ‘kiwifruit capital of the world’, where you can learn all about kiwifruit at Kiwi360. Te Puke is also home to Comvita, the manufacturers of health and beauty products made from manuka honey. Not far away in Katikati – New Zealand’s mural town – you can follow a mural trail as well as the riverside Haiku Pathway. Bay of Plenty wines and other local fare are on offer at Morton Estate in Katikati or Mills Reef in Tauranga. For nightlife, head to the Strand on the Tauranga waterfront, where numerous restaurants and bars offer something for everyone. The region boasts a variety of accommodation options, ranging from beachfront apartments and holiday parks to motels, hotels, luxury retreats, B&Bs and backpackers. For more information, visit www.bayofplentynz.com. TaUHU kaUrI walk, nEar kaTIkaTI
WHAKATANE w w w. a r r i v a l . c o . n z
beyond the
volcano
wHITE ISlanD, DEnnIS rICHarDSon
THE UnSPoIlED EaSTErn baY oF PlEnTY oFFErS ManY wonDErFUl SIGHTS anD aCTIVITIES. onE oF THEM IS a VISIT To wHITE ISlanD, an aCTIVE MarInE VolCano 48 kIloMETrES oFFSHorE FroM wHakaTanE.
W
hile White Island – Whakaari in
the crowds. It’s around an hour’s drive from
Ohiwa’s calm waters are popular for
Maori – is the region’s undisputed
both Rotorua and Tauranga, and it’s right on
fishing, sailing, water skiing, kayaking and
icon (see box), the Eastern Bay
the Pacific Coast Highway touring route that
windsurfing. The Tarawera, Rangitaiki and
follows the east coast of the North Island.
Whakatane Rivers run through the district,
is a popular destination for Kiwis, who treasure its old-style coastal culture of baches,
Gorgeous beaches fringe the region,
offering walking tracks, trout fishing,
beaches and barbecues. The undeveloped
including the 11-kilometre sweep of Ohope
rafting and jet boating. Add some of the
coastline and forested interior offer myriad
and pretty Otarawairere Bay, a tree-fringed
country’s highest sunshine hours, a strong
nature-based activities such as ocean and
cove that’s only accessible by foot. Both
Maori identity, plenty of good cafes and
river fishing, snorkelling and scuba diving,
beaches are on the Nga Tapuwae o Toi
accommodation options, and you’ve got a
swimming (including swimming with dolphins),
walkway, a 16 kilometre round-trip that
superb destination that’s ever so slightly “off
beachcombing, walking and hunting.
includes significant pa sites, seabird colonies,
the beaten track”.
The main town is Whakatane, a picturesque coastal town tucked under a rocky hill alongside the Whakatane River.
bird-filled native forest and superb coastal, rural and forest vistas. Ohope stretches to the Ohiwa Harbour,
Its size (population 15 000) means it has all
where thousands of seabirds make their
the amenities of a busy metropolis without
home on the mudflats and sandbanks.
For visitor information, see www.walkthevolcano.co.nz or contact 0800 942 528.
WORTH WAITING FOR
A
trip to White Island has been on my wish list for many years, and when I finally got the chance to visit late last year, the experience far exceeded expectations. The island can be accessed via helicopter with Vulcan Helicopters, which gives you an exciting whirl over the island before landing on the crater floor and walking to the edge of the steaming crater lake. White Island Flights offer scenic fixed flights over the island. With plenty of time to spare, we took a boat excursion with White Island Tours, who also run the Rendezvous Motel opposite the wharf where their large, comfortable boats
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are moored. Thus, in the morning we merely had to roll out of bed and wander across to board the boat. We soon eased out through the Whakatane River mouth and as we cruised past humpbacked Whale Island, a large pod of dolphins began frolicking around the boat, holding us spellbound with their playful antics. They stayed with us for quite some time, and before long, we cruised into a sheltered bay where we transferred via inflatable to White Island’s broken jetty. With hard hats on and gas masks at hand, we trekked across the barren moonscape of the crater floor, feeling totally insignificant
beneath a crescent of towering crater walls. Steam vents hissed and roared, emitting swirling clouds that added to the otherworldly atmosphere. At the crater lake, stinging sulphur fumes had us grabbing for gas masks, while amid the stark ruins of the sulphur works, we pondered the fate of men who’d lived, worked and died in this inhospitable environment. It was a truly awe-inspiring experience, and during lunch back on board the boat, everyone seemed strangely subdued. Perhaps like us, they were contemplating the power and majesty of this remarkable island. – Editor
T h e u lt i m at e D V D ’s o f
NZ
DVD
bonu image C s D
South Island: Just $39-90
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Discover the South Island of New Zealand – from Picton in the North to Stewart Island in the South. For visitors seeking unspoilt wilderness, awe-inspiring scenery and a chance to get away from it all, the South Island is truly a magnicent destination. Its contrasting landscapes include soaring snowy mountains, dramatic glaciers, deep ords, lush forests, dramatic limestone formations, glacier carved lakes, wild coastline and beautiful remote beaches. Some of the worlds best walking tracks can be found in the 10 national parks.
Discover the North Island of New Zealand – from the northern tip at Cape Reinga to the culture capital of Wellington; it is an island where abundance knows no bounds. An island of sandy beaches, expansive rain forests and culturally diverse towns and cities.
This DVD combines both the South Island and North Island on one great DVD. Hours of great footage to add to you memory of New Zealand.
Explore ancient Kauri forests and volcanic landscapes with colourful terraces, bubbling mud pools and dramatic geysers. Fish for trout in remote rivers or raise adrenalin levels with a bungy jump or jet boat ride. Shop until you drop in Auckland or sail the beautiful Bay of Islands.
All DVD’s are:
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Completed in 2009, the latest video to hit the market. Both a souvenir and a guide to the North and South Island of New Zealand. High quality DVD’s fully narrated with background music and natural sounds. Plays on any multi-region DVD player. Fully guaranteed.
Purchase online now at www. thenewzealanddvd .co.nz or freephone 0800 485 584 arrival New Zealand
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59
Rotorua
w w w. a r r i v a l . c o . n z
Whakarewarewa Village
Steamy pleasures and hidden treasures ROTORUA IS FAMOUS FOR ITS GEOTHERMAL ACTIVITY, MAORI CULTURE AND SPA TRADITION. SECLUDED, BUSH-FRINGED LAKES AND REMOTE FORESTS ADD TO THE ALLURE.
R
otorua’s lakes, rivers and forest
culture. In the 1880s the healing powers of
provided the first inhabitants, the
Rotorua’s geothermal waters were recognised,
Arawa people, with a rich source of
and it became a popular spa resort.
food, while the geothermal resources gave
Today’s visitors can enjoy similar
an endless supply of hot water and steam
experiences with many places to see
for the hangi (earth ovens). Early tourists
bubbling mud pools, active geysers and
came to view the region’s unique natural
steaming lakes. You can soak in the soothing
wonders and experience its welcoming Maori
waters of a hot spring, unwind with a
Rainbow Springs
Agrodome
therapeutic spa or massage, or ease aches
offering myriad options for short walks,
publicly accessible lakes where you can
and pains with a mud wrap sourced from
hiking, mountain-biking, horse-riding and
fish for trout, swim, kayak, take a cruise or
local geothermal areas.
bird-watching. In Whakarewarewa Forest,
simply stroll on a lakeside beach.
five minutes’ drive from the city centre,
The lakes district – an easy twenty minutes
culture in New Zealand. Just over a third of
stately Californian redwoods stand guard
drive from the city centre – offers plenty of
the region’s population is Maori, with around
over a network of walking and biking tracks
walking options. A 5km track around Blue
35 marae, and various cultural attractions.
suitable for all skill levels. The forest is free to
Lake winds through pine forest and reveals
Visitors can easily experience this living
the public throughout the year. Further out,
several good swimming beaches. Okareka
culture, whether it’s sampling indigenous
Whirinaki Forest and Te Urewera National
Walkway is a 5.5km return walk through
food, learning its fascinating history and
Park offer spectacular hiking and bird-
farmland, beach, lake and wetland scenery.
legends, enjoying a hangi and concert, or
watching in magnificent native rainforest.
A well-formed bush walk in Okere Falls Scenic
trying carving, weaving and traditional games.
Adding to the region’s natural beauty is
Reserve has lookouts over the Okere River
It’s also a good place to see Maori artisans
a network of stunning lakes. Approaching
and its waterfalls. Challenge yourself with a
carving pounamu (jade), bone or wood using
Rotorua from the northwest on State
hike to the summit of Mt Tarawera, which
traditional and modern methods.
Highway 5, you’ll catch glimpses of Lake
looms moodily over pristine Lake Tarawera
Rotorua from the top of the rugged
or kayak over the calm waters of Lake Rotoiti
Mamaku Ranges. This is one of fourteen
on a new excursion offered by Waimarino. It
Native and exotic forests cloak much of the region (forestry is an important industry),
rotorua
ultimate experiences
Retreat into the private luxury of a world-class lodge. Indulge in sensuous spa therapy and relax in stunning natural surroundings. Mix roaring white water with a rush of adrenalin as your raft plunges over a seven metre waterfall on the wild Kaituna River. Discover bubbling cauldrons of geothermal activity in amazing natural landscapes, cruise on a pristine lake and enjoy the tranquility of native forests. There’s accommodation from backpackers to luxury lodges, including motels and hotels, to suit any style and budget. www.rotoruaNZ.co.nz
DR9065
Rotorua remains the heartland of Maori
combines scenery, a glowworm cave and hot
roTorUa MUSEUM, photo by Dennis richardson
pools with tales of Maori myths and history.. Coming from the northwest you’ll pass attractions such as Off Road New Zealand, Agroventures and Skyline Skyrides, which comprise part of the region’s growing range of adventure activities. Skyline Skyrides is an old favourite with New Zealanders. This all-weather attraction is set on Mt Ngongotaha (487m), and is guaranteed to get the blood pumping. Three exciting luge – three-wheeled carts – tracks snake over five kilometres of the mountainside, so don a safety helmet and feel the wind in your face as you hurtle downhill. Also on site is the exhilarating Skyswing, which sends you skywards at 120kph, providing amazing views of Rotorua city and the lake from the safety of your harness. Atop Mt Ngongotaha is the Cableway Restaurant and Bar, the perfect location to dine while enjoying panoramic views. Open daily, it’s fully licensed with capacity for 499 people. They serve breakfast, café meals, a buffet lunch, and a nine-course buffet dinner. Some of the Agroventures rides, including the quirkily named Zorb and Shweeb, originated in Rotorua and consequently the region has become a popular place to challenge your spirit. Experience thrilling 360-degree spins in a jetboat, raft or sledge down a choice of rivers (trips vary in difficulty), or get your blood pumping with a scree slide into the crater of an active volcano. Other attractions provide plenty for
GUARDIANS OF HISTORy
I
n the late 1800s, the New Zealand government decided to capitalise on the curative powers of Rotorua’s thermal waters and began developing a fashionable Europeanstyle tourism and healing resort that included bathhouses, promenades, a band
rotunda, a tea-house, and natural geothermal features set amid ornamental gardens. Today
all the family. Paradise Valley Springs
Rotorua’s tranquil Government Gardens are still home to the picturesque 1908 Bathhouse,
Nature Park features wild trout, animals
which was once an internationally renowned medical spa. The imposing Bathhouse now
and birdlife in a native bush setting. Lion
houses the excellent Rotorua Museum – a storehouse of treasures featuring permanent
feeding takes place daily at 2.30pm and
galleries and cinema experiences that cover everything from the Mt Tarawera eruption, to
shouldn’t be missed. The Agrodome, a
Maori history and the spa era.
160-hectare working sheep and cattle farm,
The other iconic building in the gardens is the splendid Blue Baths complex, which
gives visitors a hands-on farming experience
opened in 1931. While other Rotorua bathhouses were mainly for medicinal purposes,
and a chance to interact with commercially
the Blue Baths were purely for pleasure. Elegant Spanish-style architecture, white tiles,
farmed animals. The world-renowned sheep
sun balconies and diving towers, submerged lighting and sparkling sapphire pools echoed
show runs three times a day and includes
the movie-star glamour of the era. Not only that, it marked the first time that men and
shearing, lamb feeding and cow-milking
women could bathe together in public, and mixed bathing at the Blue Baths quickly
demonstrations.
became de rigueur.
Rainbow Springs Nature Park is home to
Today the Blue Baths have been stunningly restored inside and out, and are again the
Kiwi Encounter, a working hatchery and
epitome of style and sophistication. The glittering pools are open to the public, and the
nursery. Kiwi are hatched and nurtured
former adult changing rooms are a museum gallery recording the history of the baths.
here, and when mature enough they are released back into the wild in their original
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PolYnESIan SPa
SkYlInE, GonDola
MT TarawEra CraTEr
habitat. Both kids and adults will love the chance to get up close to New Zealand’s iconic, but normally elusive, bird. After an active day, soothe the body and mind with a wellness experience. For a day spa, try Hell’s Gate and Wai Ora Spa where you can feel the earth’s raw power with New Zealand’s only mud bath. The city’s Polynesian Spa was recognized by Conde Nast Traveller as one of the top ten medical/ thermal spas in the world. It also has a family pool. Families will also find gallons of fun at Waikite Valley Thermal Pool. As a premier tourist destination for both domestic and international visitors, Rotorua has a wide range of dining and accommodation options, with choices to suit all budgets and tastes.
Modern • Central Location Recliner Armchairs • Spa Units 16 Victoria Street, Rotorua www.bksrotoruamotel.co.nz
20% OFF STANDARD RATES conditions apply
arrival New Zealand
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63
M or e p ar a St m
ROTORUARotongata REGION mAp Kaharoa
33
36
Okere Falls
5
Whangamarino
LAKE ROTOITI SCENIC RESERVE
Lake Rotoiti
Hamurana
Lake Rotoiti
Mourea
Awahou
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Lake Rotorua
8 Mokoia Island
Hauparu Bay
30
33
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WAIONE BLOCK SCENIC RESERVE
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New Zealand River Jet
12
Agrodome
13
Polynesia Spa Haroharo
14
817 Rotorua Museum
15
WaiOra Lakeside Spa Resort
Tourism Information and Bookings
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WHAKAREWAREWA FOREST PARK
Humphreys Bay
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LAKE TIKITAPU SCENIC RESERVE WHAKAREWAREWA FOREST (The Redwoods)
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LAKE TARAWERA SCENIC RESERVE
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PRESENT THIS VOUCHER FOR
10% DISCOUNT ON DAYTIME ADMISSION
m
uk a
Waiotapu ko ko
Lake Ngapouri
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Waikite Valley
W
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NEW ZEALAND MAORI ARTS AND CRAFTS INSTITUTE
Hemo Road, Rotorua 0800 83 7842 www.tepuia.com
OPEN EVERY DAY
m ea
S tr
ON PRESENTATION OF THIS COUPON RECEIVE 10% OFF ADULT ADMISSION
Rerewhakaaitu am
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Rotowhero (Green Lake) RAINBOW MTN SCENIC RESERVE
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5
S tr e
ko
Maungaongaonga 825
Rainbow Mountain 740
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MAUNGAONGAONGA SCENIC RESERVE
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LAKE REREWHAKAAITU SCENIC RESERVE
Rotomahana
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• At Rotorua’s Buried Village you enter a world from the past. • Tarawera stories come to life in our museum. • Explore the original excavated site and experience the tranquillity of this now peaceful village. www.buriedvillage.co.nz Tarawera Road 07 362 8287
N
Great reasons to visit:
Rotorua 10% discountis SCENIC LAKE ROTOITI, HOT THERMAL POOL & GLOW WORM CAVE KAYAK TOUR, ROTORUA, NZ Glide over the calm waters with NZ’s only scenic lake & glow worm cave kayak tour. Enjoy the myths and legends of the Maori people linked to Lake Rotoiti & relax in the natural thermal hot pools as you reflect on the experience.
present th voucher with direct bookings
FREE PHONE within NZ 0800 GLOW WORM (0800 456 996) email: info@waimarino.com · www.waimarino.com
Present this voucher to receive 10% discount off admission*
To see New Zealand wildlife up close and personal, phone 0800 RAINBOW (724626) or visit www.rainbowsprings.co.nz Open daily 8am until late, Fairy Springs Rd, Rotorua. Not available on combos or other deals.
*
TOUR 2
TOUR 1
Experience
NEW ZEALAND ICONS
$10
RIVERJET THERMAL SAFARI New Zealand’s Best Value
JET BOAT EXPERIENCE!
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al
1 O 0% FF m
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where great stories begin . . . exhibitions guided tours cinema experiences gift shop cafe museum open daily 9am-5pm
Ph: 07 350 1814 www.rotoruamuseum.co.nz
TAUpO
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A great
place to be
MaorI roCk CarVInG bY lakE
lakE TaUPo – nEw ZEalanD’S “GrEaT lakE” – waS ForMED THoUSanDS oF YEarS aGo bY a MaSSIVE ErUPTIon. noT SUrPrISInGlY, ManY oF THE rEGIon’S naTUral aTTraCTIonS arE VolCanIC In orIGIn.
p
icturesque Taupo town hugs the
ranging from jetboating to volcanic air
shores of Lake Taupo (pronounced
safaris, hot pools to skydiving, and lake
Toe-paw), a massive body of water
cruises to trout fishing.
that’s roughly the size of Singapore. It’s
Taupo is the northern gateway to the
a popular holiday spot for both Kiwis
active volcanoes Mt Ruapehu, Mt Tongariro
and visitors, and offers great shopping,
and Mt Ngauruhoe (Mount Doom in the film
restaurants, and many accommodation
The Lord of the Rings), which are part of
options. It’s also the base for a huge
the World Heritage-listed Tongariro National
number of experiences and activities,
Park. A scenic flight provides an impressive
Nature’s Nature’sUltimate Ultimateplayground playground id id a ek a k e k k i i l l livelive
id id a ek a k e k k i i yl yl pla pla
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TAUPO & RUAPEHU
must-dos
Soak in one of the region’s thermal pools Scream as you leap from a plane or bungy platform Take a wild jetboat ride to the base of Huka Falls Take the floatplane to Orakei Korako thermal area
CYClISTS oVErlookInG HUkaFallS
outlook, while at ground level the Volcanic
You can see thundering Huka Falls, 3km
Loop Highway around the lake and mountains
north of Taupo, from above, or from below
is another great way to see the region.
on a launch or jetboat trip. Not far away you
Active people who want to experience a truly volcanic landscape can traverse Mt Tongariro on the spectacular 17km Tongariro
can gorge on freshwater prawns or buy them to take home. The Taupo region is a great place for those
Crossing, generally reckoned to be the
who love the outdoors. Tramping, skydiving,
best one-day hike in New Zealand. Alpine
bungy jumping over the Waikato River,
conditions change rapidly so check weather
jetboating, 4x4 motorbiking, whitewater
forecasts and make sure you’re well-prepared.
rafting, horse-trekking, mountain-biking,
A less arduous way of experiencing Taupos
abseiling and rock-climbing are among the
volcanic heritage is to sink into geothermally-
outdoor pursuits on offer. There are six good
heated water at one of the town’s hot pool
golf courses in the region including the
complexes while the kids enjoy a hot-water
excellent Wairakei International course and
playground. Also try Tokaanu hot springs, at
the Jack Nicklaus designed Kinloch Club.
the southern end of Lake Taupo. Minutes north of Taupo near Wairakei
Lake Taupo and its rivers are a trout fishing wonderland. Hire a guide and explore some
village you’ll find boiling mud pools, thermal
of the region’s pristine streams and rivers.
valleys and steaming geysers, plus brilliantly
Tongariro River is almost legendary among
coloured silica terraces. The man-made
trout fishers, and on its banks you’ll find
Wairakei Terraces are a window into history;
the National Trout Centre, where a new
there’s also a Maori village, an animal park,
underwater viewing room gives a trout’s eye
aviary and the recently reinstated Te Kiri o
view of the fish.
Hinekai (Honeymoon) Pool, known for its healing powers. At Orakei Korako Cave & Thermal Park you
TaUPo FloaTPlanE
In the warmer months Lake Taupo’s beaches are popular with swimmers and sunbathers; you can sail and kayak, waterski or parasail
can wander through a valley of unbelievable
behind a speedboat. A lake cruise to the
colours; a world of bubbling hot springs,
famous Maori rock carvings at Mine Bay is
geysers and great natural beauty. Scenes
another popular activity. Lake Taupo Museum
from the BBC’s Walking with Dinosaurs were
and Art Gallery is a good place to learn about
filmed at Orakei Korako.
the region’s history and culture. TaUPo SkYDIVE
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arrival New Zealand
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CENTRAL NORTH ISLAND
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rivers
Roads and
F
rIVErboaT on THE wHanGanUI rIVEr
wHIlE THE VolCanoES rUaPEHU, TonGarIro anD nGaUrUHoE ProVIDE an UnSUrPaSSED oUTDoor EXPErIEnCE, THE SUrroUnDInG rEGIon alSo oFFErS nUMEroUS aCTIVITIES anD aTTraCTIonS.
rom Taupo the quickest route south
River City, Whanganui. A more adventurous
through the central North Island is SH1,
option is to take the Whanganui River Road,
which encompasses the desolate but
passing through tiny riverside settlements
beautiful Desert Road on the eastern side
of historic importance to both Maori and
of the mountains. However, other central
Pakeha. The river was once an important
routes eventually end up in Wellington, each
transport route, and is now a popular place
offering its own combination of scenery,
for recreational trips such as the jetboat ride
activities, towns and attractions.
to the Bridge to Nowhere, and canoe trips.
The towns of National Park and Ohakune
If you head east from Ohakune, rejoin SH1
are a great base for challenging mountain
at Waiouru, where the imposing QE II Army
hikes but if you prefer a gentle stroll, there
Museum has excellent displays related to New
are plenty both on and off the mountains.
Zealand’s military history. From there, the road
Walks that combine heritage with bush and
winds through a landscape of deep gorges
alpine scenery include Te Porere Redoubt,
carved out by the Rangitikei River –another
a well-preserved fortification site built by
outdoor playground offering many adventure
Maori leader Te Kooti, and the historic Old
options. En route, stop and enjoy typical rural
Coach Road at Ohakune. The latter includes
towns like Taihape and Hunterville where the
viaducts, bridges, and cobbled surfaces and
welcome is warm and genuine.
is part of the new National Cycleway project. Near Ohakune at Raetihi, you can take TrEkkInG nEar brIDGE To nowHErE
SH4 via the scenic Paraparas south to the
Great reasons to visit:
Central North Island
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HAWKE’S bAy
bountiful
harvest
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a HUGE ranGE oF orCHarDS, MarkET GarDEnS, VInEYarDS anD oTHEr FooD ProDUCErS MEanS HawkE’S baY CarrIES THE “FooD baSkET” bannEr wITH PrIDE. PICTUrESQUE arT DECo anD SPanISH MISSIon arCHITECTUrE aDD To THE aMbIEnCE.
I
many lives and destroyed untold buildings
kilometres of dedicated walking and cycle trails,
in Hawke’s Bay. Napier and Hastings were
most of which are flat. Trails meander along the
rebuilt in the Art Deco and Spanish Mission
seaside, through cities, down river valleys, and
styles and today the architecture is a feature of
through picturesque vineyards and orchards.
n 1931, a devastating earthquake claimed
the region.
You can work off the calories on over 40
The walk and cycle-ways run along Napier’s
Hawke’s Bay is also renowned for its superb
Marine Parade, which boasts lovely sunken
food and wine – especially red wine – and
gardens, a soundshell and several statues and
around seventy wineries dot the landscape,
memorials, as well as the National Aquarium
many of which have cellar doors where you
of New Zealand. The facility has a large
can taste and buy wine. Some have picnic areas
oceanarium with an underwater viewing
and several have top-class restaurants housed in
tunnel, and many smaller tanks that hold
magnificent buildings in stunning locations.
aquatic creatures from around the world. Time
The region’s food trail has around eighty-five
your visit to see divers feed the sharks and
stops, with products ranging from olives and
stingrays, or if you’re a certified diver, get in
oils, breads and preserved delicacies to honey,
amongst them yourself.
fresh-roasted coffee, gourmet bacon, hand-
A long-established Hawke’s Bay eco-
made chocolate and famous Rush Munro’s
experience is a trip to the Cape Kidnappers
ice cream. The Hawke’s Bay Farmers’ Market
gannet colony (season ends early May), where
operates a Saturday Urban Market in Napier
thousands of birds breed, nest and raise their
and a Sunday Farmers’ Market at the A&P
young on the rugged headland. You can get
Showgrounds, Hastings.
there by tractor and trailer along the beach, or
Great reasons to visit:
overland across a working farm. A few minutes drive around “the hill” from Napier’s CBD you’ll find Ahuriri, a busy entertainment precinct offering a string of great cafes and bars on the waterfront. Several are housed in revamped heritage buildings, and the suburb is also home to Napier’s most photographed Art Deco building, the National Tobacco Company. The region has a good range of accommodation, including vineyard cottages, hotels and apartments with an Art Deco ambience.
Hawkes Bay
Join the thousands who take guided tours through the stunning city of Napier. Guided Walks / Vintage Car Tours / Deco Bus Tours / Shopping / Events Online booking & shopping available. 163 Tennyson Street, Napier. Phone: 06 835 0022 Open 7 days - except Christmas day! www.artdeconapier.com
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TARANAKI
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New Plymouth Coastal Walkway. Image by Rob Tucker
the western sky C7/VT0178/ARR Photos: Rob Tucker
Fire in
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MAORI LEGEND SAYS THAT MT TARANAKI FLED WEST AFTER A BATTLE WITH MT TONGARIRO, IN THE CENTRAL NORTH ISLAND. WHEN A FIERY WEST COAST SUNSET CLOAKS THE MOUNTAIN’S SLOPES, IT’S SAID HE’S SHOWING HIS CHIEFLY CLOAK TO HIS OLD FOE.
The Home of Legendary Adventures Taranaki is the home of legendary adventure this autumn. The world’s best female surfers are heading to the region’s waves for the New Zealand round of the ASP Dream Tour 25 April – 1 May. There are many more adventures to be had by foot – autumn is a spectacular time to experience the region’s many www.taranaki.info/visit great walks and hikes.
arrival New Zealand
TARANAKI
must-dos
Watch a stunning sunset from a Taranaki beach Cycle or walk along New Plymouth’s coastal walkway Catch a scene from Romeo and Juliet at Stratford’s glockenspiel (daily at 10am, 1pm, 3pm and 7pm sharp) Enjoy the mountain view while you picnic at Lake Mangamahoe Take a whirl in a helicopter over Mt Taranaki
Not to be missed is a walk along New Plymouth’s international award-winning waterfront walkway, where the graceful Wind Wand designed by renowned kinetic artist Len Lye creates a focal point. Lye’s collection is held at the city’s contemporary gallery, the Govett-Brewster. In Hawera, Tawhiti Museum is often touted as the country’s best private museum. Mt Taranaki is surrounded by Egmont National Park, the most accessible of New Zealand’s national parks. It offers more than 300km of walking tracks, whether it’s
MT TaranakI wITH TE rEwa rEwa brIDGE, nEw PlYMoUTH Photo Dennis richardson
T
a short nature walk through the magical
oday the majestic 2518m peak of Mt
from cultural festivals like WOMAD to huge
Taranaki sits at the heart of Taranaki,
concerts and international sporting events.
a relatively undiscovered region that
A good starting point is Puke Ariki, a
offers culture and urban sophistication,
modern, interactive museum that houses
outdoor pursuits, and a beautiful natural
the i-SITE Visitor Centre, the city library,
environment. The region’s main urban area
a café, a restaurant and a museum shop.
is New Plymouth, which was judged New
Puke Ariki’s permanent exhibitions trace the
Zealand’s best city (North & South magazine)
history and events that have formed this
and the world’s best small city (LiveCom
proud, creative region, from the mythical and
awards). The city boasts many visitor
physical birth of Mount Taranaki, through
attractions, and hosts many major events
land wars and pioneering innovation.
‘Goblin Forest’ or the overnight Pouakai Circuit for the more intrepid adventurer. Taranaki’s other dominant landscape feature is the sea, which wraps around it on three sides. The northern coastline features wide river mouths, rugged cliff faces and towering rock formations. Meanwhile, south of New Plymouth world-class surf breaks peel from spots along the 100km Surf Highway 45. The province is renowned for its gardens, including native garden Te Kainga Marire, and the sub-alpine Pukeiti Gardens, known worldwide for its showy rhododendrons. A stroll through New Plymouth’s Pukekura Park will show why voters gave it the coveted Mayfair position on the New Zealand version of Monopoly. The 52-hectare park combines with Brooklands Park to provide a bushy oasis of lakes and streams, display houses, gardens and walking trails.
PUkE arIkI
nEw PlYMoUTH CloCk TowEr - credit rob Tucker
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WELLINGTON
WELLINGTON
must-dos
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Walk with virtual moa at ZEALANDIA: The Exhibition Walk with real kakariki on Matiu-Somes Island Read the “text sculptures” on the Wellington waterfront Visit Te Papa and the Museum of Wellington Head over the Rimutaka Hill to the Wairarapa vineyards See twelve great attractions via the hop on/hop off CitySights bus Study the southern skies at the Carter Observatory Admire the city’s diverse art in public places TE PaPa MUSEUM
Coffee, culture
and conservation
aS wEll aS a SoPHISTICaTED CaFÉ CUlTUrE, bUSY EVEnTS CalEnDar anD MYrIaD CUlTUral aTTraCTIonS, wEllInGTon HaS a STronG CoMMITMEnT To ITS naTUral EnVIronMEnT.
N
ot many capital cities can boast major
from 1000 years ago to the present day.
conservation success stories in the
Another accessible sanctuary is Matiu-
heart of the city, but in Wellington
Somes Island in Wellington Harbour, which
and interactive interpretations of the entire nation’s history, life and culture. If you want to delve further into New
dedicated volunteers have created a special
was once a quarantine station for humans
Zealand history and culture, significant
place to hand down to future generations.
and animals, and an internment camp and
national collections are Archives New
ZEALANDIA: The Karori Sanctuary Experience
defensive position during the World Wars.
Zealand in Mulgrave St and the National
is a scenic oasis covering 225 hectares of a
The island can be reached by ferry but for an
Library (embracing the Turnbull Library) in
forested inner-city valley.
interesting introduction, take a Ship ‘n Chip
Molesworth Street. Free guided tours of
tour offered by the Museum of Wellington
Parliament Buildings run on the hour, starting
that excludes non-native animals and on a
City & Sea. It includes an informative tour of
at the Beehive Visitor Centre.
bushwalk in this “living ark” tui, kereru and
this excellent museum, a fish and chip lunch
kaka will almost certainly be seen, and you
and the ferry ride to the island.
It’s surrounded by a predator-proof fence
might even spot endangered tuatara, little
The Museum of Wellington City & Sea
Wellington is a compact city, so if you stay somewhere central (CityLife in Lambton Quay is a good example) the waterfront and many
spotted kiwi, saddleback, hihi and giant weta.
gives an intriguing insight into Wellington’s
attractions will be within walking distance.
The sanctuary’s evocative ZEALANDIA: The
history, while further along the waterfront
The hotel is close to the lower cable-car
Exhibition uses cutting-edge technology to
Te Papa, the Museum of New Zealand, is
terminal, and a ride in this iconic vehicle to
trace New Zealand’s environmental history
a magnificent showcase of art, artefacts
the Botanic Gardens gives wonderful views
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ZEalanDIa, babY TUaTara
DElUXE CaFE, aaron burgess
There are great beaches for beachcombing
theatres, visit one of the myriad galleries, and sip a hot, strong coffee somewhere like Mojo,
and strolling, or swimming and surfing.
Caffé Italiano, Vivace or Peoples Coffee. The
Oriental Bay is a city favourite, while across the harbour there’s pretty Days Bay. To the
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Circa Theatre
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35
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Lambton Harbour
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Queens Wharf
Events Centre
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office
O ’R E IL Y
YMCA
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Progressive Synagogue
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East by West Ferry Terminal
OFF ICE SQ
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NZ Academy of Fine Arts
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Old Bank Arcade
BNZ Centre
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Art Works of NZ Gallery
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Museum of Wellington City & Sea
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Van Helden Gallery
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GRE
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Brooker Gallery
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Victoria University
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KELBURN PARK
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WelTec
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Kelburn
Observatory to learn about the southern skies
Lambton Square
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Clifton Station
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the Cable Car Museum, drop into Carter
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Salamanca Station
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District & Family Courts
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Wellington Railway Station
Government Buildings Historic Reserve & Victoria University Law Faculty
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Wellington’s culture and coffee can’t be
TO MB LA
National Archives
BA
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BOTANICAL Tranz Scenic GARDENS
bus, which does a sixty minute loop around
to our shores.
The Cenotaph
ITM
SL
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Victoria Bureau de change University
Polynesian and European settlers navigated
The Beehive
LAMBTON SQUARE
Pres
ST
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B 3 The Interislaner Ferry Terminal 8
option is to hop on and off the CitySights
multimedia exhibits show how early Maori,
High Court Buses only
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100
Turnbull House
ET
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Begonia House
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Lady Norwood Rose Gardens
through its new planetarium show. The show
Reserve Bank
ST
Court of Appeal
BU
ANDERSON PARK
MUSEUM
BOLTON ST MEMORIAL PARK
passing by.
Parliament House
STR EE T
E
WELLINGTON
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After browsing the gardens and visiting
Parliamentary Library
T
SYDN
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twelve great attractions.
B AL L A N T R AE
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N ME IA
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Millwood Gallery
W
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Gateway Retail Centre
2 fur seals or watch the inter-island ferries A IT K E N
STREET
PA
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B
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National Library
WELLINGTON cITY mAp
of the city and harbour. Another car-free
related to astronomical history, and excellent
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is complemented by an interesting collection
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Te Papa is New Zealand’s bold, innovative and interactive national museum. Explore the great treasures and stories of this country – its unique natural environment, Mäori culture and taonga (treasures), dynamic art heritage, and its fascinating history. Open every day from 10am to 6pm and until 9pm on Thursdays. General admission is free.
Cave in Miramar.
TH
WINGFIEL D Red Rocks you can see the southAlexander at rugged Capital Turnbull,
QU AY
G U IL DF O
2
23
RO AD
HILL fan, head to the mini-museum at the Weta
TE PaPa
St Pauls
E
House
Heart Primary School RC
CL E S T O N H IL L
Paramount, and if you’re a Lord of the Rings Premier MEMORIAL PARK
M
city has iconic cinemas like the Embassy and
S TR E E T
■
STR E
Cl
Gate
HE R D
75 ET
12
1
ST
RE
ET
ORIEN 80
Check out our 10% off voucher in the front of Arrival Magazine!
Linking the North & South islands Interislander travels between the North and South Islands of New Zealand and is one of the most spectacular three hour cruises in the world. Taking a vehicle with Interislander is as easy as parking in a car park building - just drive on and drive off. As you travel on Interislander, take a stroll on the decks, enjoy a meal, a drink or even catch the latest movie releases. Or of course, you could just take in the breathtaking view.
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MARLbOROUGH
After the
harvest
w w w. a r r i v a l . c o . n z
aUTUMn IS a TIME oF PlEnTY In MarlboroUGH. VInES DrIPPInG
wITH lUSCIoUS GraPES waIT For HarVEST, rEaDY For THE nEXT VInTaGE oF THE rEGIon’S worlDFaMoUS SaUVIGnon blanC.
S
MarlboroUGH SoUnDS
ince Marlborough’s first commercial
up other delicious delights: succulent seafood
71km trail passes lush forest, historic bays and
vineyard was planted in 1973, the region
from crystal-clear waterways includes scallops,
skyline ridges.
has gained a reputation for producing
crayfish, famed greenshell mussels, salmon or
some of the finest wines in the world. As well as the flagship sauvignon blanc variety, the
freshly caught snapper. There are many places crafting superb
Accommodation along the track ranges from backpackers to high-end, and with transfers and luggage undertaken by water-
region also produces chardonnay, pinot noir,
dishes, whether it’s among the vines at one of
taxi, it means easy access and a relaxed
pinot gris and methode traditionnelle.
the many award-winning winery restaurants, a
experience. To make it even easier, local
Of more than 100 wineries, around fifty
stylish urban eatery, or a country café. If you’re
operators provide packages combining water
have ‘cellar doors’ ranging from well-known
self-catering, pick up seasonal specialties at the
transfers, accommodation, walking, mountain
international brands to small boutique family
farm gate or at the Sunday Farmer’s Market.
biking and sea kayaking.
producers. Several local wine trail operators
But Marlborough is more than just fabulous
Marlborough has a number of cultural
provide popular ways to see and sample
wine and food. The region boasts magnificent
attractions, among them the Omaka Aviation
what Marlborough has to offer, be it by
scenery, including the intricate network of
Heritage Centre, which brings to life the
coach or bicycle.
waterways and headlands of the Marlborough
heroes of WWI aviation. There’s a full range of
Sounds. A great way to see some of the
accommodation, including several delightful
ripen, but the region’s culinary fare doesn’t
Sounds 1500km coastline is by walking all or
boutique properties, some of which are nestled
stop at wine. The unspoiled environment gives
part of the Queen Charlotte Track. This iconic
amongst the vineyards.
Record sunshine hours help the grapes
Great reasons to visit:
Marlborough
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NELSON TASMAN
NELSON
must-dos
w w w. a r r i v a l . c o . n z
Enjoy a leisurely lunch among the grapevines Hike the Heaphy Track in Kahurangi National Park Skydive over, or walk and kayak the Abel Tasman National Park Discover Nelson’s fabulous Saturday market See the mountains reflected in a bush-fringed alpine lake Get inspired by the creative ingenuity on show at the WOW Museum kaITErITErI kaYakS
Top of
the south
USE nElSon’S SUn-FIllED aUTUMn DaYS To EXPErIEnCE ITS lakES,
bEaCHES, MoUnTaInS anD ForESTS.
N
elson/Tasman boasts three diverse
lifestyle. From here you can take guided safaris
national parks that can be explored
to Farewell Spit, the northernmost tip of the
in a variety of ways. Beyond Motueka
South Island. The sandy 35km spit – Onetahua
is Kahurangi, the country’s second-largest
or “heaped up sand” to Maori – is a protected
kaYak In a PEaCEFUl baY, or TakE
national park and home to the Heaphy Track,
bird sanctuary that harbours a variety of
a waTEr TaXI To an ISolaTED CoVE.
a five-day walk to Karamea on the West Coast.
resident and migratory seabirds. Guided safaris
Abel Tasman National Park is renowned for
also take in the historic lighthouse.
SkYDIVE InTo a SCEnIC DroP ZonE,
beautiful beaches and crystal-clear waters, and
With over 350 artists and artisans in the
offers a stunning escape for trampers and sea
region, it’s no wonder that Nelson is often
kayakers. Inland, the Nelson Lakes National Park
referred to as the arts capital of the country.
is a paradise of bird-filled beech forest, jagged
Many ply their craft from homes, galleries and
mountains, clear streams and tranquil lakes.
colourful markets in attractive Nelson city,
Plenty of operators are keen to get you
but others are found throughout the wider
out and into it, and if you want to see it
region. Studios, galleries and workshops can
from above Skydive Abel Tasman will happily
be visited, but a Nelson art experience doesn’t
oblige. After a twenty-minute scenic flight
have to be passive. Fun, interactive classes are
over stunning scenery you leap (attached to
available on anything from bone carving to
an experienced instructor of course!) into a glorious drop zone of mountains, forests, rivers, lakes and beaches. For land-based thrills, drop into Happy Valley Adventures, a one-stop shop for thrillseekers where you can ride a horse or a quad bike, ride the Skywire flying fox, play paintball, take a safari tour or even have a ride in the amphibious Argo. Golden Bay, over the steep Takaka Hill in the nElSon lakES, TraVErS VallEY
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northwest, is a scenic jewel with a laid-back
kaITErITErI kaYak Kaiteriteri Kayak is the only kayak company to operate from Kaiteriteri beach. Come and enjoy good times, great people, personality-plus guides and interactive trips! Go for a big day out, big lunch, lots of laughs. Join a trip with Kaiteriteri Kayak – great little kayak trips. Phone 03 527 8082 or Freephone 0800 252 925). www.seakayak.co.nz
DownTown nElSon
bead making, and painting to pottery.
abEl TaSMan naTIonal Park
the region produces hops, olives and many abEl TaSMan aQUa TaXI
Nelson is home to the inspirational WOW
kinds of fruit. There’s a well-mapped trail of
– the World of Wearable Art and Classic Cars
28 wineries, and locally grown hops supply
Museum – which is just two minutes from
boutique breweries. Seafood is a regional
the National Park, year-round, with
the airport. The mind-blowing collection in
speciality and the many rivers that lace the
additional early and late departure times.
the WearableArt™ Gallery is a tribute to the
area provide freshwater fishing. Great cafes,
Aqua Taxi has two departure bases:
creativity and ingenuity of artists working
bars and restaurants abound.
Marahau and Kaiteriteri. The drivers will
with a range of materials. Meanwhile the
Festivals are a recurring theme in this region,
classic car gallery showcases an eclectic mix
with celebrations for everything from jazz to
of some of the most sought-after makes and
kite flying, seafood, busking and music. But if
models ever produced.
you can’t visit during a festival, don’t worry –
Nelson’s Mediterranean climate and fertile
Services run the entire length of
show you a good time and share some of their stories on your journey. Phone 03 527 8083 or Freephone 0800 278 282. www.aquataxi.co.nz
being here is a celebration in itself
soils mean superb growing conditions, and
Great reasons to visit:
Nelson 10%
D isc o u nt 0800 2 KAYAK www.seakayak.co.nz Maximum of two people per coupon. Direct bookings only.
www.seakayak.co.nz
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WEST COAST w w w. a r r i v a l . c o . n z
WEST COAST
must-dos
Get up close to the glaciers on a guided trip Rejuvenate in the hot pools at Franz Josef Pan for gold at Shantytown Watch pounamu (jade) carvers create fine jewellery Try to spot kotuku, the graceful white heron Listen to birdsong in a remote rainforest See the Punakaiki Pancake Rocks & Blowholes
lakE MaTHESon
Go wild
in the west
wEDGED bETwEEn THE SoUTHErn alPS anD THE TaSMan SEa, THE wEST CoaST IS a rEGIon oF TowErInG MoUnTaInS, rUSHInG rIVErS, anD wIlD CoaSTlInES. ITS FaMoUS, EaSIlY aCCESSIblE GlaCIErS arE THE ICInG on THE CakE.
O
ften called Glacier Country, the West
can choose from three invitingly warm main
Coast has more than sixty glaciers in
pools, or bush-fringed private pools.
the Westland/Tai Poutini National Park
The region’s five diverse national parks –
alone; among them are the twin jewels of the
Kahurangi, Paparoa, Arthur’s Pass, Westland
Fox and Franz Josef Glaciers, two of the most
and Mt Aspiring – make it a paradise for
accessible glaciers in the world.
nature lovers. Scenic flights, climbing, caving,
To fully appreciate the grandeur and
quad-biking, rafting, canoeing, kayaking and
geology of these remarkable ice-flows, it’s best
jetboating are all on offer, as are mountain-
to take a guided trip with experienced local
biking, fishing and gold panning. Countless
operators. Fox Glacier Guides and Franz Josef
walks and hikes range from gentle rambles
Glacier Guides offer several options on the
to challenging adventures: try the Heaphy
respective glaciers, and whether you choose
Track (but book well in advance), or take an
a half or full-day walk, a heli-hike, or ice-
easy stroll to serene Lake Matheson near Fox
climbing you’ll be well looked after by friendly,
Glacier, where New Zealand’s highest peak,
professional guides. After an exhilarating day
Aoraki/Mt Cook, and Mt Tasman are reflected
on the ice, soothe your aching muscles in the
in the glassy waters.
Glacier Hot Pools at Franz Josef, where you
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HaaST rIVEr
The scenic, pristine wetland and lagoon at coastal Okarito is a birdwatcher’s paradise. As well as being home to more than 45 wetland species, it’s the breeding ground of the graceful kotuku, the white heron. Another coastal must-see is Punakaiki, with its spectacular blowholes and soaring limestone stacks called the Pancake Rocks. Interesting historic sites and attractions trace the region’s settlement, which began when Maori came in search of sacred pounamu (greenstone). In the 1860s gold fever drew Europeans to the West Coast, many of whom stayed when the gold ran out and established farms, forestry and commerce. Near Greymouth you can experience this history at Shantytown, a cultural and heritage attraction inspired by the PanCakE roCkS PUnakaIkI.
West Coast Experience an all weather working heritage attraction and legendary West Coast stories… Clip this ad to receive discount
Great reasons to visit:
HANTY OWN DISCOUNT ON OLD TIME PHOTO
H ERITAGE PAR K Rutherglen Road Paroa. 10km south of Greymouth – well signposted from SH 6 Ph: 03 763 6634 Freephone 0800 742 689 www.shantytown.co.nz
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gold rushes. Around thirty historic buildings recreate a 19th-century pioneer town, and the attraction offers interactive experiences such as gold-panning, steam train rides and a bush sawmill experience. The descendants of those early pioneers – today’s “Coasters” – are independent, hospitable people, and warmly welcome visitors to this special part of the country. Museums and galleries, craft shops, cafés and good restaurants are found throughout the region, and accommodation options include luxury lodges, hotels and motels, camping, cottages and backpackers. A scenically brilliant way to get to the Coast is via the TranzAlpine train from Christchurch to Greymouth.
ICE ClIMbInG
$5 discount voucher* Glacier Hot Pools, Cron Street, Franz Josef Glacier, New Zealand Freephone: 0800 044 044 | www.glacierhotpools.co.nz *Public and private pool entry only. CC: Arrival
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$5 off $10off
half day hike full day hike
FREEPHONE 0800 GUIDES LOCATED ON THE MAIN ST OF FRANZ JOSEF TOWNSHIP. CC: Arrival
WANAKA
w w w. a r r i v a l . c o . n z
An enviable lifestyle
GEnUInE HoSPITalITY IS a kEY ValUE oF wanaka’S “lIFESTYlE rESErVE” ConCEPT, So VISITorS wIll rECEIVE a warM wElCoME To THIS rEGIon oF TowErInG PEakS, GlEaMInG lakES anD bEaUTIFUl rIVEr VallEYS wanaka SkYDIVE
W
anaka is the gateway to Mount Aspiring National Park, which is
native forest of the Matukituki valley. Wanaka has an excellent selection of
with 1.5 kilometres of passages will intrigue visitors of all ages, as will its crazy leaning
restaurants, cafés and shops as well as a
tower and tilted house. Even the toilets will
that make up Te Wahipounamu World Heritage
thriving arts and crafts community. It’s within
get you thinking!
Area. The area is especially loved by hikers, day
easy reach of the world-class Central Otago
walkers and climbers, who revel in this pristine
vineyards, so hopping on the wine trail is easy
Zealand Fighter Pilots’ Museum, which
alpine wilderness. A favourite with local hikers
— just 55km away in Cromwell there’s Quartz
features aircraft, stories and exhibits related
and runners alike is Mt Roy (between Wanaka
Reef, Nevis Bluff, Carrick and Bald Hills, to
to fighter pilots and the World Wars.
and Glendhu Bay), which affords great views
name a few. However, locals recommend
Meanwhile the National Transport and Toy
from a height of 1578 metres.
grabbing a picnic or some nibbles and
Museum is an incredible private collection
walking to Rippon Vineyard to taste wines
boasting over 600 vehicles (including 30 fire
biking, sky-diving, jetboating, paragliding,
in what must surely be one of the world’s
engines!), twelve aircraft, 30,000 toys and
lake cruising and kayaking. Fly-fishers can’t
most picturesque vineyards. Beer lovers can
thousands of miscellaneous items. In keeping
resist the lakes and rivers, and the chances of
visit and tour Beerworks, a boutique brewery
with the offbeat theme, Paradiso Cinema is a
landing a plump rainbow trout are high. In
producing handcrafted, chemical-free brews.
great spot for a flick with seating consisting
part of the sacred peaks and valleys
Other outdoor activities include mountain
the warmer months, Lake Wanaka is popular
A unique Wanaka attraction is the
Other Wanaka attractions are the New
of old couches and a car. With daily flights from Christchurch and
for wakeboarding, waterskiing and sailing.
bewildering but fascinating Puzzling World,
Another way to appreciate the region’s beauty
which has been voted in the world’s top ten
just an hour’s drive from Queenstown, Lake
is on Deep Canyon’s canyoning trips through
“weird attractions”. Its puzzling eccentricities
Wanaka is easy to get to by air or road.
the spectacular crystal cascades, pools, and
of holograms, optical illusions, and a labyrinth
Great reasons to visit:
Wanaka
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Kaikoura w w w. a r r i v a l . c o . n z
Nature’s playground
GIANT SPERM WHALES ARE YEAR-ROUND RESIDENTS IN THE DEEP TRENCHES OFF THE KAIKOURA COAST. SEABIRDS, OTHER WHALE SPECIES, DOLPHINS AND SEALS OFTEN ENCHANT WITH THEIR ENTERTAINING ANTICS.
Whale Watch, Kaikoura
O
21st century. The whales feed on rich marine life in the deep Kaikoura Canyon, which
attracted by the area’s abundance of fish. Other Kaikoura activities include fishing,
verlooked by a range of snow-capped
runs along the coast quite close to shore.
four-wheel drive adventures, walking and
mountains, the Kaikoura region in
These giants of the sea can be seen from a
horse trekking. There’s also a picturesque
North Canterbury first attracted Maori,
Whale Watch boat or small plane as they rise
golf course just south of the town. There are
who came to harvest its abundant seafood
to replenish their air supply then return to
many places to sample Kaikoura’s famous
(kai = food, koura = crayfish). European
the depths in an awesome display of grace.
seafood – try the crayfish (lobster), scallops,
whalers and sealers followed, and Kaikoura
Dusky dolphins, rare Hector’s dolphins and
mussels, blue cod or butterfish. If you like
town is built on the site of a whaling station
fur seals also entertain visitors at sea, and
wine, visit the Kaikoura Winery which boasts
that was established in 1843.
seals can be seen on rocks south of town
limestone cellars and spectacular views.
Ironically, the sperm whale, once hunted for its oil, has helped Kaikoura prosper in the
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and out on the peninsula. Seabirds too – including the rare wandering albatross – are
Accommodation ranges from coastal campsites to a unique lodge with luxurious tree houses.
CANTERbURy w w w. a r r i v a l . c o . n z
CANTERBURY
must-dos
Soak up the French ambience at Akaroa Indulge in a spa treatment at Hanmer Springs Take a horse trek in peaceful Peel Forest Raft or kayak the Rangitata River
akaroa waTErFronT
Canterbury welcomes EarTHQUakE UPDaTE Our thoughts are with the people of Christchurch, who suffered a destructive earthquake on February 22. The quake resulted in loss of life and major damage to buildings and infrastructure. At the time of writing, part of Christchurch’s CBD is still cordoned off, but the wider Christchurch and Canterbury region continues to welcome visitors. The airport is operating normally, although some flights have been rescheduled. Main roads in and out of the region are unaffected. The famous TranzAlpine rail service over the Southern Alps to Greymouth is running daily, while the TranzCoastal from Picton has temporarily been replaced by coaches to allow for important freight movement on the line. Most Christchurch-based rental car companies, shuttles and tour operators are
Savour the North Canterbury Food and Wine Trail
you
bUIlDInGS MaY HaVE bUCklED UnDEr THE ForCE oF naTUrE, bUT THE ProUD CanTabrIan SPIrIT rEMaInS STronG. VISITorS Can STIll EnJoY a wEalTH oF FabUloUS EXPErIEnCES, alonG wITH a warMEr THan EVEr wElCoME.
W
hile the heart of New Zealand’s beautiful Garden City is currently off limits, dozens of the city’s
tourism attractions have already rolled out the
functioning as usual, although their location may have changed. Check ahead for
post-earthquake welcome mat. Meanwhile,
instructions. Most tourism attractions, including many in Christchurch itself, are open
business continues as usual in the unaffected
for business. This includes Up Up & Away Ballooning, the International Antarctic Centre,
regional tourism hubs, which offer everything
Willowbank Wildlife Reserve, Orana Park Wildlife & Shuttle, Tanks For Everything and
from sumptuous wine and food to hot pools
many more.
and alpine experiences; from horse trekking
Accommodation in the city is in high demand so book in advance, and advise providers
and rafting, to whale watching and swimming
of any change in plans.
with dolphins.
Status updates are available on the official tourism source www.christchurchnz.com
sparkling harbour surrounded by rugged
Akaroa, on Banks Peninsula, is set on a hills. The waters are home to a variety of sea life, and wildlife cruises offer the chance to see fur seals, penguins and other birdlife –
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85
and if you’re lucky, rare Hector’s dolphins. The
streams. It’s the home of New Zealand’s
Planetarium and Museum as well as the
quaint village has a French ambience, and the
highest mountain, Aoraki Mount Cook
Hillary Gallery, which traces Sir Ed’s ties to the
audio tour (available from the information
(3754m), where you can experience anything
region, and celebrates a lifetime of physical
centre) around its charming historic buildings
from a short walk to a multi-day hike,
and humanitarian achievements.
will reveal the reasons why.
boating on a glacier lake or even a scenic
The Alpine Pacific Triangle (see boxed
The Mackenzie District is also renowned for its clear, star-filled night skies – in
flight with a snow landing.
fact, it’s hoped that the region will soon
text) offers another assortment of pleasures,
Aoraki Mount Cook is where the late
while the breathtaking scenery of the fabled
Sir Edmund Hillary (a much-loved, iconic
be designated a UNESCO World Heritage
Mackenzie District – just 2.5 hours southwest
New Zealander, that’s him on the $5 note)
Starlight Reserve. A tour to Mt John
of Christchurch – will stop you in your tracks.
practised before he became the first to
Observatory will leave you starry-eyed, and
This is a land of lofty tussock-covered high
conquer Mt Everest. Be sure to visit the Sir
this research observatory is also an interesting
country, snowy mountains, glacial lakes,
Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre at Mount
place to visit in the daytime.
orderly canals and meandering mountain
Cook Village, which features a 3D movie,
An alternative route south from
ALpINE pACIFIC TRIANGLE
T
his scenic touring route forms a triangle
the waterslides.
between the Waipara Valley wine region,
Other activities include forest walks, horse-
the spa town of Hanmer Springs and the
trekking, mountain biking, jetboating, golf,
whale-watching hotspot of Kaikoura – with plenty
fishing and skiing at nearby Mt Lyford. The town
of scenic panoramas along the way.
has plenty of good accommodation and eateries.
Kaikoura sits half way between Picton and
At the bottom of the triangle, 45 minutes north
Christchurch, overlooked by towering mountains.
of Christchurch, is the Waipara Valley, an up-
Here you can go whale watching by boat or small
and-coming wine region producing some fine
plane, or encounter playful dusky dolphins and
wine, especially Pinot Noir, Riesling, chardonnay
colonies of fur seals (see Kaikoura story).
and sauvignon blanc. Several wineries have
From Kaikoura, drive inland on State Highway
restaurants offering local cuisine and some have
70 and follow the signs to Hanmer Springs. The
vineyard accommodation.
main drawcard for decades has been Hanmer’s
A vintage train runs between Waipara and
thermal pools complex, today a regular winner
Waikiri through scenic Weka Pass on the first
of tourism awards. Soak in hot water or relax in
and third Sundays of each month, and most
the newly revamped spa while the kids play on
public holidays.
Great reasons to visit:
Canterbury
Peel Forest Horse Treks
NZs Ultimate One Day Rafting Trip
- to suit all ages and abilities, one hour to overnight treks available.
10O%UNT www.peelforesthorsetrekking.co.nz
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$2tin0g ogradffe exci ! 5 rafting
Direct bookings apply
DIRECT BOOKINGS APPLY
DISC
Rangitata Rafts, South Island
FREEPHONE 0800 251 251
www.rafts.co.nz
Freephone 0800 251 251
Tasman Bay
Christchurch is the inland scenic highway,
cANTERBURY REGION map Westport
which passes through the pretty rural town of Geraldine. An ideal detour en route is Peel Forest, a stunning, bird-filled remnant of
Buller
Blenheim
CO O
K
NELSON
River
the magnificent podocarp forest that once covered much of the region. This peaceful area sits at the base of the Southern Alps, Waiau
River
and offers walks of varying difficulty, kayaking and rafting on the spectacular Rangitata River
Hanmer Springs
(also a renowned trout and salmon fishery),
GREYMOUTH
and horse trekking through rivers, forests and
Kaikoura
high country. There are mountain biking and
TASMAN SEAand it’s also the gateway to the 4WD options, famous backcountry farms Mt Peel Station, with its historic Church of Holy Innocents, and Mesopotamia Station at the head of the Rangitata Gorge.
A
L
P
S SOUTH PACIFIC OCEAN Rangiora iri River
Waimakar
S
O
U
T
Lake Wanaka
H
E
R
Lake Pukaki
N
CHRISTCHURCH
Methven
Aoraki/ Mount Cook Lake Tekapo
Ashburton
R ak ai a Ri ver
Canterbury Bight
Temuka Lake Hawea
Omarama
Timaru
Wanaka Waipara Valley
WN
Ranfurly
ke atipu
Oamaru
Alexandra
DUNEDIN Gore Balclutha
luff arrival New Zealand
â–
87
queenstown w w w. a r r i v a l . c o . n z
the south
Queen of Dining out in the Mall, Destination Queenstown
AUTUMN’S CALM, SUNNY DAYS
accommodation. The town continues to claim
ARE TEMPERED BY AN EVENING
the “adventure capital” tag with around 150
a 45-minute drive from Queenstown, you can
CHILL, AND THE MOUNTAIN TOPS
exciting activities on offer.
escape into the glorious wilderness region of
MAY SOON BE DUSTED WITH
With both extreme and leisurely pursuits
At Glenorchy, at the top of Lake Wakatipu,
Mount Aspiring National Park with Dart River
SNOW. IT’S A PERFECT TIME TO
available, there’s something for everyone. For
Jet Safaris. Their exhilarating jetboat safaris
ENJOY QUEENSTOWN’S MYRIAD
example, several boat companies ply beautiful
carry you deep into the south’s wild heart via
ATTRACTIONS DURING THE DAY, AND
Milford Sound, the Shotover Jet rockets
the Dart River. They also operate inflatable
through river canyons on a breathtaking
Funyaks: you go upriver by jetboat and paddle
thrill ride, or you can sail peacefully up Lake
gently back, exploring the Rockburn Chasm on
Wakatipu on an America’s Cup yacht.
the way. Drive from Queenstown or be
CURL UP BY A BLAZING FIRE AT NIGHT.
T
ucked under The Remarkables mountain range at the edge of pristine Lake Wakatipu, Queenstown’s natural beauty
The rushing waters are ideal for high-
collected from your hotel – it’s a great
energy rafting, and companies like
trip. You can also take a scenic flight to
attracts visitors all year round. Its extensive
Queenstown Rafting offer rafting experiences
Glenorchy and get a bird’s-eye view of
range of amenities and attractions includes
in the Shotover River, the Kawarau River and
the Alps.
adventure tourism, fishing, golf, wine and
the Landsborough River, as well as a variety of
food, shopping, nightlife, and world-class
“action combos”.
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To sustain all that activity, you’ll need a good bed and great food, and whatever
QUEENSTOWN
must-dos
See what lies beneath at Milford Deep Underwater Observatory Face the fear on a tandem skydive Hold on tight during a thrilling jetboat ride Cruise, sail or speed up Lake Wakatipu Play 18 holes at stunning Jack’s Point Watch the sunset from a lakeside bar Catch a movie at Arrowtown’s hip cinema
lakE HaYES, QUEEnSTown
Encounter & discover Milford Sound
With our popular Nature and Scenic Cruises, and the NEW interactive Milford Discovery Centre & Underwater Observatory we can deliver the entire Milford Sound experience.
• Hop onboard a cruise from just $63 • Popular small boat Encounter Nature Cruise • Modern, newly refurbished fleet of boats • Local, experienced guides • Travel options from Queenstown & Te Anau
www.southerndiscoveries.co.nz Queenstown, 30 Shotover St • Te Anau, Lakefront Drive
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STEaMErS wHarF
your budget and preferences, Queenstown’s got it sorted. A bed in a backpackers’ lodge can cost as little as $18; there are pretty B&Bs, homestays, apartments, motels, hotels and some fabulously exclusive high-end properties. With more than 150 great eateries staffed by chefs from around the world, Queenstown also offers adventures of the culinary kind. There are tantalising menus to satisfy every taste and budget, be it a mouth-watering gourmet burger QUEEnSTown aErIal VIEw
enjoyed by the lake or an indulgent degustation dinner in a discreet, intimate venue. Team your meal with a fabulous Central Otago wine, or dine at one of the celebrated wineries just outside town. Coffee culture flourishes in downtown and lakeside areas. In the warmer months the streets buzz with alfresco diners basking in late sunsets, drinking locally-crafted, awardwinning beers and wine; in winter, hearty fare is served in front of roaring fires. Queenstown
nZonE SkYDIVE
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has good shopping too, with quality stores
EMBRACE THE FEAR TM
Tandem Skydive from 15,000ft
World famous as the ultimate jet boat experience, shotover Jet has thrilled over 2.5 million people since 1970, and now it’s your turn! take a unique breathtaking ride through dramatic and narrow canyons, and hold on tight for Queenstown’s only exhilarating full 360˚ spins. ‘Can you handle the canyons?’ with award winning shotover Jet, the World’s Most exciting Jet Boat Ride, and the only company permitted to operate in the spectacular shotover River Canyons. RESERVATIONS ESSENTIAL shotover River Base, arthurs Pt, Queenstown Phone: 0800 sHotoveR email: reservations@shotoverjet.co.nz Web: www.shotoverjet.com
Exhilaration
Discovery
Free $15 Gift with your Tandem Skydive 0800 DROPZONE (376 796) Rotorua & Queenstown www.nzone.biz OPERATING SINCE 1990
Adventure
Queenstown’s Dart River Jet Safaris experiences are unique combinations of breathtaking ‘World Heritage’ scenery, exhilarating wilderness Jet Boating, Maori heritage and inspiring adventure – truly authentic discoveries of everything that makes New Zealand an exceptional destination. RESERVATIONS ESSENTIAL Queenstown Info Centre: Cnr Camp & Shotover Sts , Queenstown - or - Dart Visitor Centre: Mull St, Glenorchy Free phone: 0800 327 853 Email: reservations@dartriverjetsafaris.co.nz Web: www.dartriverjetsafaris.com
NEY E + SAVNE’SMLEOAD SAVE TIM ING QUEENSTOW COMBINE
S ADVENTURE ACTIVITIE
COME AND SEE US AT THE STATION BUILDING CORNER OF SHOTOVER + CAMP STREETS, QUEENSTOWN
CALL FREE: 0800 423 836
www.combos.co.nz
MILFORD SOUND
waTErFronT aT lakE wakaTIPU
selling everything from fashion and adventure clothing, to classy souvenirs, ski gear, Tahitian black pearls and Australian opals. If you like a flutter, Queenstown has two
N
ature took millions of years to create the towering mountains, glaciers and deep fiords of Milford Sound and Fiordland National Park, but it will only take you a few hours to enjoy them. Several sightseeing options are available from Queenstown and Te Anau.
You can fly in by plane or helicopter, drive yourself through the Homer Tunnel, or sit back in
small casinos, The Wharf, on Steamer Wharf,
a luxury coach. Whatever your choice, you’ll be moved by the powerful, pristine landscape of
and Sky City Casino on Beach Road. Roulette,
snow-capped peaks, crystal-clear lakes, spectacular waterfalls and ancient lush rainforest.
blackjack and baccarat tables operate
From the air you’ll see impressive glaciers and hanging valleys, while by road there’s a
alongside the ubiquitous gaming machines.
dramatic vista of mirror lakes, rustling beech forest, the Homer Tunnel, and debris from
As well as the driving range and 9-hole short
past avalanches. Once there, cruise up the fiord of Milford Sound to the Tasman Sea,
course at Frankton, golfers will find several
stopping to view cascading waterfalls, towering cliffs, rugged peaks, verdant rainforest,
top-notch 18-hole courses, all dominated by
and seal and penguin colonies. Should gentle dolphins be at play, there’s always time to
the region’s magnificent scenery.
observe their exuberance.
If you’re tired, stressed, jet-lagged, action-
Several operators will make your Milford Sound visit a memorable one. Make sure you
ed out, or just in need of pampering, soak in
consider Kiwi Discovery, Mitre Peak Cruises, Southern Discoveries and Real Journeys – all are
a spa pool, or head to one of Queenstown’s
ready to share their passion for, and knowledge of, this remote, special part of the world.
day spas for a range of beauty and therapeutic treatments.
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GlEnorCHY VIEw
Great reasons to visit:
Queenstown 15% OFF
WHITEWATER RAFTING
CRUISES MILFORD SOUND
*
Cruises start from $63
*Conditions apply
www.southerndiscoveries.co.nz gs only
ly. Direct bookin
Conditions app
20% OFF! Phone: 03 451 0515 Toll Free: 0800 435 486 Email: info@helitours.co.nz
www.helitours.co.nz
DUNEDIN
w w w. a r r i v a l . c o . n z
oTaGo HarboUr FroM PorTobEllo
TaIErI GorGE TraIn, CroSSInG HInDon VIaDUCT
Graceful yet wild
larnaCH CaSTlE.
DUnEDIn IS FUll oF bEaUTIFUl GarDEnS, ElEGanT HoMES anD STaTElY HISTorIC bUIlDInGS. IT HaS EXCEllEnT MUSEUMS anD GallErIES, anD oFFErS ManY UnForGETTablE ECo-ToUrISM EXPErIEnCES
DUNEDIN
must-dos
Dunedin (population 120,000), the South
any time of year. You can also tour Speight’s
1848 by Scottish Presbyterian immigrants, and
brewery, and the Cadbury chocolate factory,
retains a distinct Gaelic charm. It boasts many
where as well as learning about chocolate-
fine Victorian and Edwardian buildings, and
making you can sample the goodies.
Take a double-decker bus ride around the city’s heritage sites
a bronze statue of poet Robbie Burns stands at the heart of the city in The Octagon. These
of the Otago Peninsula, Dunedin is the
Step back in time at Larnach Castle
days he looks down on forty or more lively
gateway to a land and seascape that hosts a
cafés, bars and bistros.
wealth of sub-Antarctic wildlife, including rare
Get your taste buds tingling at Cadbury World
Dunedin is also a culturally rich city. The
yellow-eyed penguins and sea lions. The stars
Take one of Otago Museum’s fascinating guided walks
of the show however, are the majestic royal
the country and the world-class collections at
albatrosses, which arrive at Taiaroa Head in
the Otago Museum attract more than 300,000
September to begin their breeding cycle.
Explore the leafy dells in the Botanic Gardens
visitors annually. Meanwhile, the Otago Settlers
arrival New Zealand
It’s the world’s only mainland breeding colony
Museum celebrates early British settlers and
and during autumn, the Royal Albatross Centre
others, including the Maori and Chinese who
is a busy place as adult birds glide in with
worked the goldfields and made Dunedin rich.
food for their rapidly growing chicks, which
Garden is fabulous in spring and summer,
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Situated at the bottom of the long finger
Dunedin Public Art Gallery is among the best in
The rhododendron dell at Dunedin Botanic
94
and the gardens are a serene place to visit at
Island’s second largest city, was founded in
are preparing to leave the nest in the coming months. Alternatively, take a wildlife cruise
and watch the birds from below as they soar
A popular Dunedin experience is the Taieri
overhead - chances are you’ll also encounter
Gorge Scenic Rail Experience, which departs
some of the region’s other wild creatures.
every afternoon on a 78km journey that takes
On the way to the royal albatross colony,
in the Taieri Plains and the deep Taieri River
you’ll pass Portobello and its Marine Studies
Gorge, where it rumbles across wrought iron
Centre (visitors welcome) and New Zealand’s
viaducts and through tunnels carved by hand
only authentic castle, Larnach Castle, with
more than 100 years ago. It’s a scenic way
its fine gardens and stunning views. The
to get to the start of the Otago Central Rail
castle has an exciting, sometimes scandalous,
Trail, a popular 150km cycle/walk trail through
history, and boasts some magnificent
heartland Otago. Citibus operates a Track &
architecture. It’s home to the Barker family,
Trail tour that combines the rail trip with a
who’ve spent more than 40 years restoring
coach link to Queenstown.
it and its grounds. Another historic gem
North of Dunedin lie the strange Moeraki
is Olveston House, an elegant mansion
Boulders, huge round rocks scattered randomly
preserved to give a glimpse into the lives of a
along Koekohe Beach. Dunedin is also the start
privileged Edwardian family. It can be visited
(or finish) of the Southern Scenic Route, which
as part of the heritage double-decker bus tour
takes in some of the deep south’s least visited
around the city.
regions.
Great reasons to visit:
Dunedin Discover • • • •
LARNACH CASTLE New Zealand’s only Castle
Award Winning Attraction Garden of International Significance Excellent collection of NZ antiques Café and Gift Shop
~ ONE COMPLIMENTARY COFFEE ~
This voucher entitles you to a 2 for 1 deal on our double deck bus sightseeing tour when purchased in combination with our Otago Peninsula Wildlife Tour. Bookings can be made online at www.newtons.co.nz or by phone on 03 477 5577 Valid until 31 August 2011, conditions apply.
*Max 2 adults per voucher
*
with this advertisement
Phone 03 476 1616 larnach@larnachcastle.co.nz www.larnachcastle.co.nz
SOUTHLAND w w w. a r r i v a l . c o . n z
CYCLISTS TAKING IN THESouthland landscape
be your oyster
Let Southland
Southland landscape
AUTUMN IS A SPLENDID TIME TO EXPLORE SOUTHLAND’S PRISTINE OUTDOOR ENVIRONMENT. IT’S ALSO HARVEST TIME FOR SUCCULENT BLUFF OYSTERS – A PRIZED LOCAL DELICACY
I
nvercargill is Southland’s main hub,
make sure you order a Speight’s beer and try
and within a day’s drive you’ll find everything
and the rich history of New Zealand’s
local seasonal delicacies like Stewart Island
from towering rainforests and alpine tussock
southernmost city has a shaped a
salmon and famed Bluff oysters.
to rolling farmland and golden beaches.
distinctive culture and spirit. Its natural and
Walks criss-cross the city, from gentle
In Southland’s southeastern corner The
cultural heritage can be explored in the
inner-city heritage strolls to more strenuous
Catlins are a place of hidden lakes, tumbling
Southland Museum and Art Gallery, itself
coastal routes. The wider region is home
waterfalls and ancient native forests fringed
housed in a distinctive pyramid. The facility is
to some of the country’s most celebrated
by clay cliffs and wild, beautiful beaches.
the world’s leading captive centre for tuatara,
Great Walks, including the Tuatapere
Bird and marine life includes yellow-eyed
giving visitors an excellent opportunity to view
Humpridge Track. The three-day walk covers
penguins and Hector’s dolphins.
these ancient reptiles.
coastal, bush and sub-alpine landscapes,
Stewart Island, a 20-minute flight or one-
and includes the Waitutu Forest and the
hour ferry trip off the mainland’s southern
Queen’s Park, a beautiful inner-city oasis that
Percy Burn Viaduct, said to be the largest
tip, is a wonderland for trampers, wildlife
boasts gardens, native flora and fauna, and even
remaining wooden viaduct in the world.
enthusiasts, fishers and divers. The emerald
The museum and gallery is on the edge of
a golf course. Invercargill’s modern, attractive
Invercargill is the gateway to some of
CBD has good cafés, restaurants and pubs –
New Zealand’s most beautiful destinations,
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forests and white sandy shores of this ecological treasure harbour the country’s
SOUTHLAND
must-dos
Take a twilight walk on a deserted beach At low tide, see the fossilised remnants of a forest at Curio Bay Look for kiwi on Stewart Island Experience southern hospitality in a country pub Tackle one of the region’s acclaimed Great Walks Cruise on a lake, the sea, or a sound
most diverse bird population. Penguins, albatrosses and other seabirds, kaka, parakeets, tui and bellbird can be seen and heard, and the island is perhaps the best place in the country to spot kiwis in the wild. Much of the island is part of Rakiura National Park, and the three-day Rakiura Track is one of the country’s Great Walks. Day trips to neighbouring Ulva Island, a pest-free “open sanctuary” are easily arranged. Another major Southland attraction is World Heritage-listed Fiordland National Park, home to the dramatic scenery of Milford and Doubtful Sounds and the Milford, Kepler and Routeburn walking tracks.
Southland
The New Zealand we all dream of.
Porpoise Bay, The Catlins
InvercargIll i-SITe vISITor cenTre located in the Southland Museum & art gallery, gala Street, Invercargill Tel: 03 211 0895 ∞ email: visit@southlandnz.com ∞ www.southlandnz.com
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find! NZ
iPhone app
Find! NZ is a FREE New Zealand local search engine based on location awareness. Find anything from cafes to restaurants, ATMs, carparks and even public toilets. One of the most popular apps in NZ.
DOWNLOAD NOW FREE from app store
Hundreds of discounts available.
IM MIG R ATION w w w. a r r i v a l . c o . n z
THE BEEHIVE.
Working Holiday Scheme
W
ant to see as much of the country
As a rule, you must have a return ticket and
as you can, fund an extended
available funds of at least $4200 to meet
stay and really get to know a few
your living costs while you’re in the country.
might enable you to extend your stay. If you
Kiwis by working with them? If you’re aged
Health and character requirements must be
can show you’ve worked in the horticulture
18 – 30, you might be eligible to work under
met, and you should have comprehensive
or viticulture industries for at least three
New Zealand’s Working Holiday Scheme. The
medical and hospitalisation insurance that
months, you might be eligible for a three-
scheme allows citizens of over thirty countries
covers the entire length of your stay.
month extension permit.
to work in New Zealand for up to 12 months
or permit under the Working Holiday Scheme
must be coming to New Zealand mainly to
before, and you should apply for the visa before
holiday, with work or study as the secondary
you arrive (you can usually do it online). If you
reason for your visit.
apply from within New Zealand, you must
You must meet several other criteria,
Better still, working in these industries
You must not have been approved a visa
(23 months in the case of UK visitors). You
which vary slightly from country to country.
shiny sun-ripened apples in Hawke’s Bay.
HiFX
have a valid temporary visa and you will need a medical check at an approved practitioner. There are short-term work opportunities in many industries. Hospitality and tourism are big employers of casual staff, and visitors on working holiday permits are especially encouraged to consider working in agriculture, horticulture and viticulture (grape-growing). There are many seasonal opportunities, and you could find yourself picking grapes for famous Sauvignon Blanc in Marlborough, picking or sorting furry
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kiwifruit in the Bay of Plenty, or plucking
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SILVER FERN POLICIES
In April 2010, two new immigration policies came into effect — the Silver Fern Job Search policy and the Silver Fern Practical Experience policy. These policies are designed to bring skilled people aged 20 – 35 years, into New Zealand. The Silver Fern Job Search policy allows you to enter New Zealand for nine months to search for skilled employment. There’s a limit of 300 places per year, and you must apply online from outside the country. You must hold a recognised qualification, meet English language requirements, and have enough funds to support yourself during your stay. Once you find skilled employment in New Zealand, you can apply for a Silver Fern Practical Experience Visa/Permit, which will allow you to work in that employment for up to two years. For full information on these and other immigration policies, visit www.immigration.govt.nz
w w w. a r r i v a l . c o . n z
Settlement Support New Zealand (SSNZ) is a government-funded service that helps new migrants feel at home in New Zealand by connecting them with the local information that they need to feel welcome, stay and settle well in New Zealand. In each of the 18 locations around the country, SSNZ works closely with councils and non-government organisations to ensure newcomers can find the information and services they need, and to help local organisations understand the changing needs of new migrant communities. SSNZ provides information about employment, housing, language, health, education, community groups, recreation, lifestyle and much more. The website, www.ssnz.govt.nz, has more information of what to expect from SSNZ and links you to regional websites and contact details for your new community. Information is also available by calling 0800 SSNZ 4U. SSNZ is free to new migrants, so if that’s you, don’t hesitate to contact them.
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IMPORT NZ PRODUCTS
INTERNATIONAL VISITORS WELCOME TRADE EXPO ON NOW-FREE ADMISSION
Visit our Auckland Showroom today Opening hours 9am-5pm Mon-Fri 26 Albert Street Auckland City Central (Corner of Albert and Swanson Streets)
Phone 09 281 40 30
www.newzealandtradecentre.com
FURTHER AFIELD w w w. a r r i v a l . c o . n z
SUNSET DINING - SANCTUARY RAROTONGA
neighbours
Meet the
NEW ZEALANDERS HAVE A STRONG CONNECTION TO THE PACIFIC ISLANDS, MAKING IT THE NATURAL GATEWAY FOR A VISIT TO THESE SPARKLING TROPICAL ISLANDS – AND OF COURSE, AUSTRALIA IS JUST ACROSS “THE DITCH”
I
t’s a long haul from the northern
of 15 islands, of which Rarotonga is the
Beachcomber, Tavarua, Treasure and
hemisphere to the South Pacific, but
capital. The Rarotongan Beach Resort & Spa,
Castaway are all great value. And for
once you’re in New Zealand, some of the
situated beside the clear waters and white
something a little different to your average
world’s most sought-after locations are close
sand of Aroa Beach, is a favourite with New
tropical holiday, you can’t go past laid-back
at hand. Several idyllic South Pacific nations
Zealanders. There’s also a sister property on
and historic Norfolk Island, less than two
with their unique culture and laid-back
stunning Aitutaki island, a luxury locale where
hours’ flying time from New Zealand.
lifestyle are just a short flight away, or you
the landscape is truly exceptional.
can hop across the Tasman to Australia.
Australia is just a 3½ hour flight across the
Vanuatu, Fiji, Tahiti and New Caledonia
Tasman and is a big tourist destination. Visit
are also popular for their scenery and great
Brisbane or Cairns, the main cities in sunny
budget holidays, the South Pacific’s balmy
activities. Vanuatu consists of 83 mountainous,
Queensland, and be sure to include the reef
temperatures, palm-fringed beaches, crystal
tropical islands in the southwest Pacific. Port
islands off the coast. Alternatively, enjoy the
lagoons and lush jungle landscapes are in
Vila the capital is popular, where the island
sophistication of the cities of Melbourne,
reach of everyone.
resort of Iririki is located.
Sydney or Adelaide, all accessible via a direct
With a choice of resort-style and
The Cook Islands are a favourite, consisting
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Fiji’s resorts such as Mana, Plantation,
flight from Auckland.
T H E R A R O T O N G A N B E A C H R E S O R T & S PA
Rarotonga Calling J
ourney to the heart of the South Pacific, Rarotonga. Stay at the iconic Rarotongan Beach Resort & Spa, right on the island’s best beach. Enjoy the island’s best snorkelling in crystal clear Aroa Lagoon Marine Reserve. Extensive FREE Activities include ‘try scuba’ in the pool, kayaking, tennis, coconut tree climbing show, learn to dance the hula, play the ukulele, make a fresh flower lei, husk a coconut + much more. The simple pleasures of a dream South Seas holiday await you at The Rarotongan!
NEW DIRECT FLIGHT SYDNEY - RAROTONGA!! Aroa Beach + Lagoon Marine Reserve Rarotonga l COOK ISLANDS P (+682) 25800 l F 25799 info@rarotongan.co.ck www.TheRarotongan.com
SISTER RESORTS: www.SanctuaryRarotonga.com (adults only) + www.AitutakiLagoonResort.com
last minute accommodation deals
NEW TO NEW ZEALAND? YOU’LL FEEL AT HOME FASTER WITH OUR HELP
Settlement Support New Zealand (SSNZ) understands it can be overwhelming to settle in a new country. Our free services open doors for newcomers and provide assistance on a variety of settlement topics.
rapport DOLSD - 029c Arrival
Find information on employment, housing or even directions to your local grocery store. With eighteen offices throughout New Zealand, you can find us as easily as answers to your questions.
VISIT: www.ssnz.govt.nz/arrival CALL: 0800 SSNZ 4U SNAP: A picture of this code on your Smartphone