ISSUE 38 SUMMER 2011/2012
$2000 worth of discounts, coupons &
vouchers
ISSUE 38
T H E
G U I D E
T O
N E W
availa b le ins ide this i s s ue !
PEOPLE MEDIA GROUP
Look i ns $5 tax ide for a i disco unt
* view page 21 for mo re info rma tion
Auckla nd’s # 1T Find o ur ded axi compa ny icated at the airport rank
Z E A L A N D
10c per min
10c
UK
To mobile: 40c
per min
Canada
per min
(inc to mobile)
Japan
To mobile: 35c
10c per min
9c
Germany
To mobile: 50c
10c
per min
China
9c
10c
per min
South Korea
To mobile: 14c
per min
USA
(inc to mobile)
(inc to mobile)
10c per min
Australia
To mobile: 30c
RECHARGEABLE ONLINE AND OVER THE PHONE
CAN BE USED IN OVER 50 COUNTRIES
30c per min
New Zealand To mobile: 55c
NO SURCHARGE ONE TOLL–FREE 24 HOUR FOR TELECOM CUSTOMER ACCESS NUMBER MOBILE PHONES THROUGHOUT CALLING OVERSEAS SERVICE NZ FROM NZ
From
1 November 2011
No surcharge From telecom payphoNes calliNg overseas From New ZealaNd
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
NATIONAL DISCOUNTS SEE PAGES 14-25
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
NATIONAL
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
NATIONAL
$70 off
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
NATIONAL
$70 off
When you rent for 4 days or more
When you rent for 4 days or more
Coupon number MPNV056. See back cover for details. Conditions apply.
Coupon number MPNV056. See back cover for details. Conditions apply.
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
10% off
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
NATIONAL
CHEAP HIRE CHEAP HIRE
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 April 2012.
NATIONAL
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
Free Tee shirt
"Quote Arrivals book Free" Call free 0800 567 325 see page 20 for details. Conditions apply. ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
NATIONAL
Free Tee shirt
Present this coupon and receive a free tee shirt when booking a Magic Bus experience
Present this coupon and receive a free tee shirt when booking a Magic Bus experience
See page23 for details. Conditions apply.
See page23 for details. Conditions apply.
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
NORTHLAND
10% off 0% Commision
NORTHLAND
"Quote Arrivals book Free" Call free 0800 567 325 see page 20 for details. Conditions apply.
NATIONAL
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
DISCOUNTS SEE PAGES 30-35
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
NORTHLAND
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
NORTHLAND
FREE FREE KEYRING FREE lunch WETSUIT HIRE
Valid until 30/04/2012. Direct Bookings only. ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
AUCKLAND
Free lunch when booking a dive. Freephone: 0800 288 882 ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
AUCKLAND
10% off 10% off one full paying adult admission. Conditions apply. Direct bookings only. Promo Code: Arrival Magz
2ND DAY The Lord of the Rings Tour ONLY – Hotel Pickup 8.30am $20 Phone 09 410 6561
AUCKLAND
10% off
10% of adult 360 Harbour Discovery Cruise ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
AUCKLAND
Kauri Museum 10% off applicable rates on admission ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
AUCKLAND
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
NATIONAL
When you rent for 5 days or more
When you rent for 5 days or more
Coupon number TPNA052. See page21 for details. Conditions apply.
ARRIVAL ARRIVALMAGAZINE MAGAZINE
NORTHLAND
Coupon number TPNA052. See page21 for details. Conditions apply.
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE MAGAZINE ARRIVAL
NORTHLAND
FREE KEYRING FREE KEYRING
Free Keyring when booking this unique marine mammal experience
Free keyring when booking the Cape Reinga via 90 mile Beach adventure
Valid until 30/04/2012. Direct Bookings only.
Valid until 30/04/2012. Direct Bookings only. ARRIVAL ARRIVALMAGAZINE MAGAZINE
AUCKLAND DISCOUNTS
AUCKLAND
SEE PAGES 37-51
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
In the heart of the City for a super low rate of $89 20 Wyndham St, Auckland City. Ph: (09) 308 9140
AUCKLAND
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
AUCKLAND
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
AUCKLAND
FREE $25 PHOTO
10% off
10% off
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.
10% off adult return to Rangitoto Island
10% off adult return to Rangitoto Island
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE MAGAZINE ARRIVAL
AUCKLAND
ARRIVAL ARRIVAL MAGAZINE MAGAZINE
AUCKLAND
$5 off $5 off entry, conditions apply*
$5 off entry, conditions apply*
10% of adult 360 Harbour Discovery Cruise
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.
AUCKLAND
$89 Room
Subject to availability.
10% off
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
AUCKLAND
FREE $25 PHOTO
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
AUCKLAND
Free Keyring when booking our sailing and dining cruises in "The City of Sails"
Free Keyring when booking your 2 hour America's Cup sailing Experience.
Free Keyring when booking on our Whale and Dolphin Safari.
Valid until 30/04/2012. Direct Bookings only.
Valid until 30/04/2012. Direct Bookings only.
Valid until 30/04/2012. Direct Bookings only.
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
$5 off
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
AUCKLAND
$20 OFF
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
AUCKLAND
AUCKLAND
10% off
Present this coupon and receive a 10% discount instore
Present this coupon and receive a 10% discount instore
see page 9 for details ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
AUCKLAND
$20 OFF Save $20 off the normal adult price of your SkyWalk
Direct bookings only. Website booking code ARRIVAL.
Direct bookings only. Discount off adult prices. Website booking code ARRIVAL.
WAIKATO
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
10% off
Save $20 off the normal adult price of your SkyJump
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
WAIKATO convert your foriegn cash to $NZ and cut out the commisions
FREE SIM Card valued at $10 when you book before 31 October. Call 0800 447 363 and quote Arrival
FIRST day free
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
Free Wetsuit hire when booking your Perfect Day Ocean Cruise. Freephone: 0800 288 882
FREE KEYRING FREE KEYRING FREE KEYRING
0% Commision
NATIONAL
FREE SIM Card
FIRST day free
& WAIHEKE ISLAND
Free keyring when booking Dolphin Discoveries and Dune Rider Combo
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
NORTHLAND
convert your foriegn cash to $NZ and cut out the commisions ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
NATIONAL
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
WAIKATO
20% off
20% off
20% off accommodation when you book a tour with us
20% off accommodation when you book a tour with us
Must be booked 12 hours prior. See page 53.
Must be booked 12 hours prior.See page 53.
DISCOUNTS SEE PAGES 54-57
see page 9 for details ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
WAIHEKE ISLAND
$10 off Present this voucher for your free wine tasting valued at $10 Ph 09 372 9050 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.
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TRAINS TAXIS AIRPORT SHUTTLE SHOPPING BICYCLE HIRE TOURISM INFO
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
WAIKATO
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
WAIKATO
WAITOMO
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
WAIKATO
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
WAIKATO
20% off
20% off
10% off
10% off
20% discount on presentation of coupon
20% discount on presentation of coupon
10% Off The Legendary Black Water Rafting Company, Black Labyrinth Tour
10% OFF Triple Cave Combo, Waitomo Glowworm Caves, Ruakuri Cave & Aranui Cave
DISCOUNTS SEE PAGES 54-57
WAIKATO
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
free drink
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
WHAKATANE DISCOUNTS
0% Commision convert your foriegn cash to $NZ and cut out the commisions
Direct Bookings Only. Conditions apply.
free SOAP 1x free unique White Island sulphur soap redeemable after you come back from your tour
SEE PAGE 60-61
Buy 1 drink and get 1 free Te Anga Rd, Waitomo Caves
WHAKATANE
Not valid with any other offer. Direct bookings only.
Not available with any other offer. 1 coupon per person. House beer or wine only. ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
ROTORUA
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
ROTORUA
Direct Bookings Only. Conditions apply.
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
ROTORUA
10% off
10% off
10% off
10% off Gondola and Luge packages
10% off Gondola and Luge packages
Adult,Child & Family Rates on Sheep Show,Farm Tour & Combo
ROTORUA DISCOUNTS
SEE PAGES 62-71
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
ROTORUA
10% off 10% off admission to the Living Maori Village experience ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
ROTORUA
10% off
10% off deluxe Lake Spa bathing ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
ROTORUA
$6/$3 off
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
ROTORUA
10% off Receive 10% discount on admission ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
ROTORUA
$10 off $10 off per person NZ Riverjet Thermal Safari ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
ROTORUA
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
ROTORUA
10% off FREE gift 10% off normal admission price (not valid with any other offer valid to 30/4/2012)
ROTORUA
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
$10 off $10 off per person The Squeeze Experience Jetboating and Hot Springs Canyon Walk
Receive a free gift to the value of $15 with your Tandem Skydive ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
5% off
TAUPO
DISCOUNTS
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
TAUPO
10% off Present this voucher to receive 10% off See page 72 for details. Direct bookings only.
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
10% off Scenic Flights only ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
TAUPO
10% off 10% off per person on Taupo’s most thrilling jet boat ride by nature ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
HAWKES BAY DISCOUNTS SEE PAGE 79
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
TAUPO
FREE $25 photo
Get a free $25 Exit Photo with every Silver Jump Package Purchase See page 77 for details. Direct bookings only.
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
HAWKES BAY
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
TAUPO
ROTORUA
10% discount off all trips
10% off a premier evening Maori culture experience
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
ROTORUA
10% off
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
ROTORUA
10% off
Buried Village Rotorua 10% off adult entry 10% off admission TAUPO
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
15% off Tongariro Alpine Crossing Transport
SEE PAGES 73-77
$6 OFF the ZORB Experience OR $3 OFF any single person ZORB ride
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
10% off
see page 69 for details
10% off
TAUPO
ROTORUA
10% off
Receive 5% off Package deals at Agroventures ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
ROTORUA
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
Free phone: 0800 861 861 Plateau Lodge In House Guests Only Valid up to 2 people www.plateaulodge.co.nz ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
TAUPO
10% off Tongariro Alpine Crossing Transport Free Secure Parking for Campervans Direct Bookings Only Valid for 2 people www.tongariroalpinecrossing.net.nz
TAUPO
TAUPO
FREE DVD SAVE $20 FREE drink
Swing before 12.00pm and get a free DVD
one voucher per person & valid until Dec 2012
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
HAWKES BAY
$10 Discount $10 Discount Purchase one guided 2pm Art Deco Walk and receive a $10 discount for a second person.
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 April 2012
Not to be used with any other offer. Expires April 2012
Jump before 11am for $129 one voucher per person and valid until Dec 2012
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
HAWKE'S BAY
10% off 10% Admission Discount on presentation of this coupon
Complimentary tea or coffee to the value of $4 on admission 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.
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
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
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
WELLINGTON
10% off DISCOUNTS SEE PAGES 82-84
MARLBOROUGH
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
Free Coffee Buy one and receive another one free
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 April 2012. ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
MARLBOROUGH
FREE COFFEE
10% off
Free coffee on presentation of this voucher. 10am-4pm 7 days
10% discount on any merchandise at our Cellar Door, excluding wines
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
WELLINGTON
FREE COFFEE FREE COFFEE
CENTRAL NORTH &
WELLINGTON
WELLINGTON
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
NELSON
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
Free Coffee Buy one and receive another one free
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
MARLBOROUGH &
NELSON TASMAN DISCOUNTS SEE PAGES 86-87
NELSON
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
WEST COAST
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
10% OFF
Direct bookings only. ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
WEST COAST
Direct bookings only. ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
WEST COAST
$20 off
10% off
10% off
Receive $20 off your Franz Josef HeliHike experience
Receive 10% off scenic helicopter flights
Direct Bookings only. See page 86 for details.
Direct Bookings only. See page 86 for details.
10% off Hobnail shop products excluding NZ Post
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
WEST COAST DISCOUNTS
Receive 10% off a 16,500ft tandem skydive.
SEE PAGES 88-90
Direct bookings only & cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer. ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
WEST COAST
$5-$10 off
$5 off Half Day Hikes $10 off Full Day Hikes Freephone: 0800 GUIDES ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
KAIKOURA
10% off
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
$5 off Present to receive $5 off admission to Glacier Hotpools ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
WEST COAST
KAIKOURA
$5 off
10% off
KAIKOURA
DISCOUNTS
$5 discount on old time photo
SEE PAGES 91
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
WANAKA
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
Present this voucher to receive 10% off
$20 off
WANAKA
DISCOUNTS
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 96-99
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
QUEENSTOWN
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
10% off
QUEENSTOWN
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
DUNEDIN
FREE
Albatross pin
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
QUEENSTOWN
10% off 10% off scenic helicopter flights Freephone 0800 807 767 ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
DUNEDIN
10% off
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
QUEENSTOWN
DISCOUNTS
Direct bookings only, please refer to page 97 for details.
SEE PAGES 100-101
Present this voucher for a free Albatross Pin Valid 30 April 2012
Cadbury World Tours 10% off Factory Tour adult ticket price
WANAKA
$30 off Our 12,000 & 15,000 feet Tandem Skydive Freephone 0800 786 877 Direct Bookings only
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
QUEENSTOWN
15% OFF 15% off Scenic & Encounter Cruises* Freephone: 0800 264 536 *Conditions apply.
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
QUEENSTOWN
$15 off
15% OFF
$15 off on our tours, direct bookings only.
15% off all Helitours flights Direct bookings only.
See page 97 for details. ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
DUNEDIN
10% off
DUNEDIN 10% off one hour jet boat trip
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
$20 off Deep Canyon day trips. Phone 03 443 7922. www.deepcanyon.co.nz. Direct bookings only
SEE PAGE 94-95
Valid for one adult fare. Direct bookings only.
10% off all Albatross tours Direct bookings only
Limit 1 coupon per customer.
10% off
Direct bookings only
WANAKA
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
KAIKOURA
10% off all Dolphin tours
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
WEST COAST
Taieri Gorge Railway – one of the world’s greatest train trips. Dunedin Railway Station Maximum 2 adults per voucher. Direct bookings only.
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE
DUNEDIN
FREE COFFEE Larnach Castle Tour. one complimentary coffee with admission paid
T H E
G U I D E
T O
N E W
Z E A L A N D
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
$5 OFF
AUCKLAND CO-OP TAXIS
Any fare over $55 to or from Auckland Airport
Any fare over $55 to or from Auckland Airport
Any fare over $55 to or from Auckland Airport
One voucher per taxi fare. Vaild to 30.04.12
One voucher per taxi fare. Vaild to 30.04.12
One voucher per taxi fare. Vaild to 30.04.12
$5 OFF
AUCKLAND CO-OP TAXIS
$5 OFF
AUCKLAND CO-OP TAXIS
$5 OFF
AUCKLAND CO-OP TAXIS
Any fare over $55 to or from Auckland Airport
Any fare over $55 to or from Auckland Airport
Any fare over $55 to or from Auckland Airport
One voucher per taxi fare. Vaild to 30.04.12
One voucher per taxi fare. Vaild to 30.04.12
One voucher per taxi fare. Vaild to 30.04.12
$5 OFF
AUCKLAND CO-OP TAXIS
$5 OFF
AUCKLAND CO-OP TAXIS
$5 OFF
AUCKLAND CO-OP TAXIS
Any fare over $55 to or from Auckland Airport
Any fare over $55 to or from Auckland Airport
Any fare over $55 to or from Auckland Airport
One voucher per taxi fare. Vaild to 30.04.12
One voucher per taxi fare. Vaild to 30.04.12
One voucher per taxi fare. Vaild to 30.04.12
$5 OFF
AUCKLAND CO-OP TAXIS
$5 OFF
AUCKLAND CO-OP TAXIS
$5 OFF
AUCKLAND CO-OP TAXIS
Any fare over $55 to or from Auckland Airport
Any fare over $55 to or from Auckland Airport
Any fare over $55 to or from Auckland Airport
One voucher per taxi fare. Vaild to 30.04.12
One voucher per taxi fare. Vaild to 30.04.12
One voucher per taxi fare. Vaild to 30.04.12
$5 OFF
AUCKLAND CO-OP TAXIS
$5 OFF
AUCKLAND CO-OP TAXIS
$5 OFF
AUCKLAND CO-OP TAXIS
Any fare over $55 to or from Auckland Airport
Any fare over $55 to or from Auckland Airport
Any fare over $55 to or from Auckland Airport
One voucher per taxi fare. Vaild to 30.04.12
One voucher per taxi fare. Vaild to 30.04.12
One voucher per taxi fare. Vaild to 30.04.12
$5 OFF
AUCKLAND CO-OP TAXIS
$5 OFF
AUCKLAND CO-OP TAXIS
$5 OFF
AUCKLAND CO-OP TAXIS
Any fare over $55 to or from Auckland Airport
Any fare over $55 to or from Auckland Airport
Any fare over $55 to or from Auckland Airport
One voucher per taxi fare. Vaild to 30.04.12
One voucher per taxi fare. Vaild to 30.04.12
One voucher per taxi fare. Vaild to 30.04.12
On arrival
on a r r iva l w w w. a r r i v a l . c o . n z
Tr a n s p or t
M o n ey
The airport is 21 kilometres (14
CURRENCY EXCHANGE
miles) from central Auckland. A free bus runs between the international and domestic terminals.
The Travelex currency exchange outlets at Auckland International Airport are open for all international arrivals and departures, no matter what day or time you arrive. There are
Airbuses to the city depart from both the
many currency exchange options in the city,
international and domestic terminal every 10
so it pays to shop around.
minutes, 7am – 7pm, 24-hours a day, every day (see their timetable for the night schedule). It takes around 45 minutes and costs $16 one-way, $26 return. There’s a pre-pay machine at the
h e a ding home LEAVING AUCKLAND
International Arrivals stop if you’re using a credit
Airline counters open for check-in up to
card, but you can also pay the driver cash. Buses
three hours before departure. Remember not
leave from in front of the terminals.
to carry sharp objects in your hand luggage,
Taxis (around $60 - $80) and shuttles ($30 $40 per person, less for multiple passengers) are
and follow rules regarding liquids and gels. Getting back to the airport: The same
found outside the terminal, and major car rental
services mentioned above are available for
companies are located inside the international
getting back to the international terminal
terminal, and on the ground-floor of the car-park
from the city, and from the domestic terminal.
building directly opposite the domestic terminal.
Taxi companies have different rates so do a
Campervan and rental car companies located
comparison while you’re in the country. We
nearby offer free shuttles – as do airport hotels/
recommend Auckland Co-op Taxis.
motels. Hotels can 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
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Easy come
easy go
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.
I
t leaves every 10 minutes, 7am – 7pm
reservation – just show up and get tickets from
so you’ll never have to wait too long
the driver. It’s $16 for an adult one way or $26
(consult timetable for night schedule).
return. For a child it’s $6 one way, $12 return.
Their website www.airbus.co.nz has
can take bulky luggage too. It’s just an
your closest stop, plus route maps with
extra $6 per bulky item, and with heaps of
detailed information. You can book your
internal luggage storage and wheelchair
ticket online, or buy it from the driver. For
access, there’s room for everyone.
credit card payment, you must use the machine at International Arrivals. A one-way trip takes around 40 to 50
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Surfer, biker, hiker? Never fear – Airbus
timetables with exact departure times from
Airbus Express goes right downtown to Britomart, so you can take a connecting bus or train from there to your ultimate
minutes, and during the ride you can check out
destination. It travels via Queen Street, so
various New Zealand attractions and activities
weary travellers won’t have far to go to get
on the on-board video screen. You don’t need a
to any central accommodation.
DIRECT RELIABLE AND CHEAP AS!
Have more money to spend on your visit to New Zealand with Airbus Express, the friendly, cost effective and reliable direct transport option to and from Auckland Airport.
MCKAYMARSH 2092
OPERATING
Book online at www.airbus.co.nz For route and timetable information see www.airbus.co.nz
the party never stops
come and play! skycityauckland.co.nz
about the
front cover...
ISSUE 38
Interislander Interislander’s three ships offer up to eleven daily sailings between the North and South Islands, taking in 92 km of breathtaking scenery on the three-hour cruise. On board you can stroll on deck, catch a movie, enjoy a meal and drink, or simply relax and absorb the stunning views. Taking a vehicle is simple - just drive on and drive off. An added advantage is that
what’s in this issue...
passengers with vehicles don’t have any luggage restrictions.
F EAT U RES
Web: www.interislander.co.nz. Phone 800 802 802
6 Important Information
8 Cool NZ iPhone Apps
SHOTOVER JET If you’re heading to Queenstown then summer is the perfect time to
10 Useful Websites
experience the award-winning Shotover Jet, “The World’s Most Exciting
14
General Overview
Jet Boat Ride”. A New Zealand tourism icon and world famous as the
19
Transport
ultimate jet boat experience, Shotover Jet has thrilled over 3 million
24
What’s Hot / New
people since 1970 and is the only company permitted to operate in the spectacular Shotover River Canyons. For information and bookings call 0800 SHOTOVER (0800 746 868) or visit www.shotoverjet.com
Maps 26 North Island Map 27 South Island Map
Te Puia, New Zealand Maori Arts & Crafts Institute Te Whakarewarewa Thermal Valley, Rotorua, New Zealand Te Puia is the premier Maori cultural centre in New Zealand - a place of gushing waters, steaming vents, boiling mud pools and spectacular
DES T I N AT I O N S 28 Northland
geysers. Maori tradition lives on at Te Whakarewarewa, with guided
33 Auckland
tours and attractions, Maori culture, and National Carving and
46 Islands of the Gulf
Weaving Schools of New Zealand.
48 Coromandel
www.tepuia.com 0800 837842
50 Waikato 56 Bay of Plenty
Southern Discoveries Departing from a new pontoon beside the Discovery Centre &
58 Whakatane
Underwater Observatory in Harrison Cove, Milford Sound, Southern
60 Rotorua
Discoveries new kayaking option is accessible to everyone. Experienced
69
guides lead a maximum of twelve people on this short, gentle paddle
75 Hawke’s Bay
through a majestic setting, where chances of seeing rare wildlife is high.
76 Taranaki
See www.southerndiscoveries.co.nz
Taupo
78 Wellington 81 Marlborough 82
ARRIVAL MAGAZINE www.arrival.co.nz PEOPLE PUBLISHING www.peoplemediagroup.co.nz NEXT ISSUE: March 2012. AUDITED PRINT: 100,000 copies. PUBLISHED QUARTERLY: Sept/Dec/Mar/June. Design: Martina O’Keeffe, CCL Communications Group www.cclgroup.co.nz Printed by: PMP Print. Advertising: Murray Batger, mob: 027 438 3222, email: murray@arrival.co.nz Christina Flood, mob: 021 105 9247 email: christina@arrival.co.nz Travis Field, mob: 021 474 447 email: travis@arrival.co.nz
Editor: Heather Ramsay Publisher: People Media Group, Ground Floor, West Plaza Building 1-3 Albert Street, Auckland New Zealand ph: (09) 366 6879, fax: (09) 366 6838, email: info@arrival.co.nz Copyright: arrival.
Nelson Tasman
84 West Coast 87 Kaikoura 88 Canterbury 90 Wanaka 92 Queenstown 98 Dunedin 100 Southland 102 South Pacific
I M M I GRAT I O N / B U S I N ESS 104 Immigration
Audit period July - December 2007: 105000 - per issue
Look out for Explore Australia, Weekend magazines also from People Media Group
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important i n f o rmation w w w. a r r i v a l . c o . n z
Kayaking in Taupo
Taieri Gorge Railway Approaching Hindon
Important
information
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 Passports must be valid for a certain number of months beyond the intended date of departure, depending on your nationality. Australians with e-passports can use the SmartGates at Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch. 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. 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
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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 zero. CONSUMER RIGHTS Visitors are covered under the Fair Trading Act and Consumer Guarantees Act. The former makes it illegal for businesses to mislead consumers, give false information, or use unfair trading practices. It applies to any trader, whether it’s a big hotel chain or a temporary ice-cream stand. After purchase, the Consumer
Guarantees Act demands certain standards of quality, safety and longevity for goods and services. For more information see the back section or visit www.comcom.govt.nz. 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.
Cool NZ apps w w w. a r r i v a l . c o . n z
Tourism Auckland View over 100 Auckland activities, attractions and events. Browse A – Z, use a keyword, or shake the dice to view random listings. Track down the closest i-SITE Visitor Centre or find out what’s nearby with the “Near me” function.
PECKISH
POCKET RANGER Air New Zealand mPass
With around 115
An interactive multi-
restaurants featured,
media experience
View up-to-date
Peckish will help you
that provides
flight booking details
find your perfect
interpretation, maps
and download your
foodie fix in Auckland.
and images of the
boarding passes. If you’ve only got
Filter by cuisine or style, or by neighbourhood,
unique natural features of the Tongariro
or find out what’s close to you now. Mark your
Alpine Crossing, as well as important safety
carry-on baggage, go straight to the boarding
favourites and work your way through the list.
messages. www.tongariro.org.nz/pocketranger
gate and scan the mPass. Otherwise scan the
AUCKLAND TRANSPORT
RANKERS CAMPING
bar code yourself at the check-in kiosk.
Auckland Airport
Get around
Even if you’re offline
Auckland using
or off the beaten
Never be late (or
the MAXX app for
track, this app gives
too early) for flights
public transport. It
you every camping
again. View real-
spot in NZ, whether
time departure and
features a Journey
arrival details from
Planner, Real Time Board giving live departure
it’s freedom camping, government campsites
information for buses and a ‘Find My Stop’
and or commercial holiday parks. See www.
both international and domestic terminals at
function. See www.maxx.co.nz
rankers.co.nz and www.camping.org.nz
Auckland airport.
ROADSIDE STORIES
Welly Walks
WeatherNZ
This audio-visual guide
Don’t get caught
Explore our compact
follows eleven major
out with New
capital with your
road trips and covers
Zealand’s “four
own expert tour
the places you’ll pass
seasons in one day”
guide! Visit heritage
along the way – their
weather. Get the
buildings, museums
people, their history, their cultural and natural
latest forecasts from MetService, including
and galleries; discover nature, boutique
significance. www.mch.govt.nz/roadside/
marine, coastal and general forecasts, tides,
shops, award-winning restaurants, cafes and
and surf and snow reports.
a whole lot more.
Find! NZ
What Bird NZ?
CAMPERMATE Developed in conjunction with
Yes, it’s ours! Get
Is that a tweet or a
the Department of
access to special
twitter? This guide
Conservation, this
offers from Arrival
to our feathered
free app provides
magazine, find our
friends helps you
favourite operators,
identify over fifty
travellers with important local information such as campsites, public toilets, police
and discover hundreds of fantastic things to
native and exotic birds. You can see and hear
stations, hospitals, supermarkets, petrol
see and do around the country. A map and
them, and learn facts and interesting trivia in
stations – even rubbish bins.
GPS function will guide you along the way.
a fun format.
www.campermate.co.nz.
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Manuka Doctor apitherapy collection Naturally healthy products, inspired by nature & originating from the hive.
The Apitherapy collection by Manuka Doctor uses Purified Bee Venom (PBVTM) & Manuka Honey to provide a unique range of products that have both anti-ageing & anti-bacterial benefits
apiclear
apinourish
apirevive
apiwellness
Balance for troubled skin
Protect & moisturise
Restorative natural remedies
Wellbeing boost
For the full range visit www.manukadr.co.nz Or visit the Manuka Doctor Store, Cnr Quay & Lower Albert Sts, Auckland City.
Stewart Island experience
NEW ZEALAND
CAPE REINGA LIGHTHOUSE
must visit websites www.2for1card.co.nz
www.queenstown-nz.co.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.
Save up to $4000 by purchasing a 2for1 Card and receive 2for1 discounts throughout NZ. From movies to Jet boat rides, horse treks to wine tours.
Official site of Queenstown Tourism. Queenstown offers breathtaking scenery and is a popular holiday destination.
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.
www.i-site.org.nz
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, www.yazoom.co.nz, www.livingsocial.com
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Guarantees a better deal for Third World Producers
arrival New Zealand
â–
11
12
â–
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â–
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GENERAL OVERVIEW w w w. a r r i v a l . c o . n z
find! NZ
iPhone app
DOWNLOAD NOW FREE from app store
Owharoa Falls, COROMANDEL
This is
Around 180 million years ago New Zealand broke away from a giant land-mass called Gondwana and drifted nearly 3,000km south
New Zealand
D
utch explorer Abel Tasman arrived in 1642, naming the land “Nieuw Zeeland”. European settlement began in 1769 with
to where it sits today. Polynesians sailed here in the early 1300s, following their ancestor Kupe, who had named the country Aotearoa – “Land of the Long White Cloud”.
Self-contained Motels are the most widespread accommodation choice, and units generally
the arrival of British navigator Captain James
have a fully-equipped kitchen, a bathroom
Cook. In 1840 the Treaty of Waitangi confirmed
and one or two bedrooms. Rates range from
New Zealand as a British colony and it became
$70 to $150 (or more) a night. Apartments,
an independent nation in 1947.
holiday homes or even vineyard cottages are
A visit to any of the country’s excellent
good self-catering options for longer stays.
museums will fill you in on everything that’s led us to where we are now – a modern,
Home & Hosted
multi-cultural nation enjoying an enviable
New Zealand B&Bs, homestays and farmstays
Pacific lifestyle.
are a good way to meet locals. Some B&Bs
Accommodation
provide dinner on request and all provide breakfast. Farmstays, where you stay with a
WHETHER LUXURY OR BUDGET, CITY
family on their farm, are an excellent way to
OR COUNTRY, NEW ZEALAND OFFERS
get an insight into this important industry.
A WIDE RANGE OF ACCOMMODATION
Luxury Lodgings
CHOICES.
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Throughout the country you’ll find large
luxury hotels, boutique hotels, country lodges, resorts, health retreats and luxury B&Bs providing impeccable service and every conceivable comfort.
BACKPACKERS New Zealand has an excellent network of backpacker lodges and hostels, most of which offer a very good standard of accommodation. Most provide a range of sleeping options, from dorm beds with shared facilities to double rooms with en suites. A dorm bed can start from as little as $15, with most averaging $20 – $25 a night. These are great places to meet and share tips and experiences with other travellers, and most offer discounts on everything from food and accommodation to gift items and transport. Well-known backpacker groups
are BBH which has around 300 member hostels around the country, and YHA which has around fifty properties.
CAMPING Campers will find scores of holiday parks and campgrounds in beautiful locations. As well as powered and unpowered sites, many offer basic cabin accommodation and motel-style tourist flats. Prices vary widely depending on the location and the season, but expect to pay $25 – $45 for a site. Campground facilities include bathrooms/toilets and a kitchen (you need your own cookware and utensils), and there’s often a laundry, recreation room, barbecues, playground, onsite shop, and sometimes even a swimming pool and spa. Regional councils and DOC (Department of Conservation) also maintain basic camping areas in stunning natural areas. See Transport section, Mobile Living for more information.
Dining A TEMPERATE CLIMATE, FERTILE SOIL AND A PRISTINE OCEAN COMBINE TO PROVIDE TALENTED KIWI CHEFS WITH THE FRESHEST MEAT, SEAFOOD AND PRODUCE. Add an enthusiasm for incorporating international influences and you’ve got an innovative cuisine that has led to many New Zealand chefs gaining fame offshore. Kiwis tend to prefer less formal, brasserie-style eating and there are many establishments around the country with smart or homely décor, tasty, inventive cuisine and good service. Many such places morph from casual daytime cafés to sophisticated evening eateries. Alfresco dining at pavement tables, beside the water or among the vines is popular, especially in summer.
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, Italian, and so on. Fast-food outlets range from bigname international chains to tiny kebab stands and gourmet burger bars.
Wine Trails
The country has over fifty boutique breweries spread from the north to the very south. These craft/premium beers are batchbrewed in micro- and macro-breweries and brewpubs using the very best ingredients, nurtured along by passionate brewers. Boutique brewers are usually happy to discuss their processes and products, so even if they don’t officially provide tours, ask anyway. Check them out on www.brewersguild.org.nz.
Most wineries welcome tourists to their cellar doors to sample and buy their products. Some
Shopping
have pleasant picnic areas,
If you’re looking for a typical
restaurants and even vineyard
Kiwi memento, there’s no short-
cottages to rent.
age of souvenir shops in tourist centres and cities
New Zealand’s ten recognised wine regions are Northland, Auckland (including Waiheke Island), Waikato, Bay of Plenty, Gisborne, Hawke’s Bay, Wairarapa, Nelson, Marlborough, Canterbury, Waipara and Central Otago. Each region produces “wine trail” maps showing wineries or you can devise your own outing, or join an organised wine tour. Varying climate and terrain means each region has its signature varieties – for example, Marlborough is renowned for Sauvignon Blanc; Gisborne for Chardonnay; Hawke’s Bay for Claret-style reds; Central Otago for Pinot Noir, etc. – but there are no hard-and-fast rules to finding a great wine.
Beer & Breweries There are literally dozens of fine brews waiting to be savoured, including excellent mass-market lagers like Steinlager and NZ PURE. These are produced respectively by Lion Nathan and Independent Liquor, both national breweries. Some of Steinlager’s
For something more individual, check out art and craft galleries that support local artists and artisans working in glass, wood, wool, bone, paua (abalone) shell, and other indigenous materials. Fashionable clothing and thermal wear made from fine wools such as merino are a good buy, as are New Zealand wines and gourmet treats. On the subject of fashion, New Zealand designers have been making a splash on international runways in recent years as critics rave about their fresh and edgy look.
Where to shop In central Auckland, you’ll find design stores and galleries in the heritage buildings near the waterfront, or for clothing by top New Zealand designers visit heritage-listed Vulcan Lane and High, O’Connell and Chancery Streets, which are just off the main street, Queen Street. To the west, Ponsonby Road has boutique fashion stores, galleries, trendy shops and many excellent eateries, while Newmarket’s main shopping areas are Broadway and Nuffield Street.
better-known stable-mates are Mac’s and Speight’s, each of which comes with a bit of a legend and in a variety of styles. The other big player is DB, which among others, includes the Monteith’s brand and Tui. Visiting the iconic Tui Brewery at Mangatainoka is a almost rite of passage for beer devotees, and tours are also available at Speight’s in Dunedin, Monteith’s in Greymouth and Mainland Brewery, Timaru.
Dunedin jewellery shop Lure
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and natural history, military and social history, and the decorative arts. In Wellington, Te Papa – the country’s national museum – showcases New Zealand’s history and culturally diverse society through smart and interactive interpretations. The Auckland City Art Gallery Toi o Tamaki is the country’s largest and oldest, and a fabulous new redevelopment adds a contemporary edge to this world-class facility. City Gallery Wellington has a reputation for innovation and style, with a focus on
“CARBONATED”
“Sapphire”
Varying sizes of both plain and diamond
6.08 carat Ceylonese sapphire in a gorgeous art deco inspired platinum dress ring. This is a beautiful example of the fine rare coloured precious gemstones available at Carats. Deep green Colombian emeralds, pigeon blood red Burmese rubies and electric blue Ceylon and Madagascan sapphires are just some of the beautiful coloured stones
set circles placed randomly to create this ring that is both bubbly and fun to wear. This collection of retro-inspired designs features top quality white diamonds, natural coloured diamonds and other top coloured gemstones to create bold and eye-catching pieces. Be noticed with this unique and exceptionally eye-catching design.
available to view in-store at Carats.
For more and other collections see us
For more and other collections see
at 1st floor,10 High St Auckland city or
us at 1st floor,10 High St Auckland city
online at www.caratsjewellery.co.nz
or online at www.caratsjewellery.co.nz
contemporary visual arts, architecture and design. Christchurch boasts an extensive collection in the striking new gallery Te Puna o Waiwhetu (currently closed but check their website to find out where exhibitions and events are being held around the city).
Maori Tourism The first permanent Maori settlers arrived in Aotearoa New Zealand on huge waka (canoes) in the 13th century, and Maori people of today trace their lineage (whakapapa) to the ancestors who arrived in these canoes.
In Downtown Wellington, the Lambton Quarter is where chain stores rub shoulders with unique boutiques; Willis Quarter is a mix of 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, try Westfield Riccarton and Northlands Mall, as well as Merivale Mall which offers wonderful fashion boutiques. Dressmart at Hornby has a good selection of outlet stores. There’s also the weekend Boulevard Artisans’ market held opposite the Arts Centre, as well as the popular Christchurch Farmers’ Market at Riccarton House and Lyttelton Farmers’ Market - both on Saturdays. The city’s groovy new pop-up container mall in the CBD is proving a hit with locals and visitors.
Art, Crafts & Collectibles Fine quality handmade art, crafts and souvenirs are sold in galleries throughout New Zealand. Every area has talented artists and craftspeople, and you are often able to visit them in their home studios and watch them at work. Nelson, which is known as the arts capital of New Zealand,
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has a large concentration of artists, many of whom sell their wares at the busy Saturday morning market. The small towns of Cambridge and Tirau on State Highway 1 south of Hamilton are known for unique crafts and antiques. Decorative tapa (bark) cloths from the Pacific Islands can be found at Auckland markets, and a few specialist shops like Pauanesia in High St sell quirky Pasificana.
Museums & Galleries
Throughout the country visitors can enjoy diverse experiences that have a distinctive Maori component. It might be watching skilled carvers working with pounamu (jade) and wood, browsing a gallery of fine arts made by Maori craftspeople, or joining a Maori guide to search for kiwi in a Northland forest or sperm whales off the Kaikoura coast. You might partake in a communal meal cooked in an earth oven (hangi) followed by a cultural performance in Rotorua, or stay overnight on a marae in a remote country setting. A very good brochure called Discover Maori has details of over a hundred Maori operators
New Zealand ’s history and
throughout the country, and gives lots of
culture is preserved in museums
fascinating information about Maori history,
and art galleries that range
culture, language and protocols. Pick it up at
from modern icons like
i-SITES or download from www.inz.maori.nz.
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 collection of Maori and Pacific artefacts, along with excellent collections of ethnology
Outdoors NEW ZEALAND’S 14 MAGNIFICENT NATIONAL PARKS OFFER AN UNSURPASSED OUTDOOR EXPERIENCE. Backcountry huts provide shelter on outings that may take in rainforests and tundra,
Adventure/Thrills
MILLBROOK GOLF COURSE
COMMERCIAL BUNGY JUMPING WAS INVENTED HERE, SO IT’S NO SURPRISE THAT NEW ZEALAND IS A MAGNET FOR THRILL-SEEKERS
NELSON LAKES TRAVERS VALLEY
mountain peaks and glaciers, fiords and waterfalls, deserted beaches and pristine lakes, rivers and coastal waters. Tramp, ski, kayak, jetboat into remote areas – our national parks have it all. The Department of Conservation’s (www. doc.govt.nz) nine “Great Walks” include the Milford, Routeburn, Heaphy and Lake Waikaremoana tracks, as well as the Abel Tasman Coast Track and Whanganui Journey, both of which offer canoe/kayak options. There are dozens of other fine tramps of varying lengths, and some guided walks include catered overnight lodge stays. New Zealand’s waters are a paradise for fresh and saltwater fishers. Hunting, horsetrekking, mountain biking, climbing and, in winter, skiing in all its forms, are other popular outdoor pursuits.
!
Remember, the great outdoors can be unpredictable and dangerous. Always tell someone detailed plans, including when you’ll be back. Get an updated weather forecast, ask local advice, and take extra food and clothing. You can also hire Personal Locator Beacons (PLBs). You should complete an Outdoor Intentions form every time you venture into the outdoors. This can be done online, and few minutes spent doing this could be lifesaving. See www.adventuresmart.org.nz and www.mountainsafety.org.nz
High-adrenalin activities range from the aforementioned leap from high places to abseiling down waterfalls and rafting along underground rivers. Other breathtaking activities include jetboating, whitewater rafting, scuba diving, tandem skydiving and paragliding, river surfing, off-road 4WD adventures, giant swings, luge runs and the Zorb – a hollow plastic ball in which you bounce downhill. Queenstown is a main centre for adventure activities, but you can even taste high-level 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.
Scenic Highways TOURIST ROUTES THAT TAKE IN AREAS OF SCENIC, HISTORICAL OR CULTURAL INTEREST ARE WELL-MARKED BY SPECIAL BROWN SIGNS Driving north from Auckland you meet the Twin Coast Discovery Highway, which follows a long loop through Northland, including east (Bay of Islands) and west (giant kauri forests) coasts; the Pacific Coast Highway takes in the Coromandel, Bay of Plenty and Hawke’s Bay on its way from Auckland to Napier; while the Thermal Explorer opens up Rotorua’s geysers and Maori culture, Taupo’s volcanoes and hotsprings, the glowworm caves of Waitomo and the spectacular scenery of the Central Plateau. There are many other national and local scenic routes that are worth watching out for – or create your own by leaving the major arteries and discovering New Zealand’s rural heartland.
Golf NEW ZEALAND HAS MORE GOLF COURSES PER HEAD OF population THAN ANYWHERE ELSE IN THE WORLD – FROM NINE-HOLE COUNTRY TRACKS
Wariakei 9 Hole Golf Course
Crowded fairways are a rarity; in fact on weekdays you’ll often have them to yourself, 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.
Health & Wellbeing HOT THERMAL WATERS CREATED SOME OF NEW ZEALAND’S EARLIEST RESORTS. 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 wraps and facials – are available at several thermal resorts, while day spas are becoming common in main centres. Public swimming pools often have spa pools, saunas, gyms and massage facilities.
TO WORLD-CLASS LAYOUTS DESIGNED BY THE GAME’S GREATEST NAMES.
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New Zealand by train. Simply stunning.
Auckland
Discover some of New Zealand’s most stunning scenery, only accessible by train. Step aboard any of the 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). 18
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arrival New Zealand
Greymouth
Wellington Christchurch
country
Seeing the
tr a n sport w w w. a r r i v a l . c o . n z
NEW ZEALAND IS FAMOUS
FOR ITS SPECTACULAR SCENERY, AND YOU DON’T HAVE TO VENTURE FAR OFF THE BEATEN TRACK TO FIND MOUNTAIN RANGES, VOLCANOES, THERMAL ACTIVITY, PRISTINE LAKES, FIORDS AND MEANDERING RIVERS, AS WELL AS MYRIAD PICTURESQUE BAYS AND BEACHES.
Self-drive
find! NZ
iPhone app
This is a popular option for anyone who likes to do their own thing. New Zealand’s
DOWNLOAD NOW FREE from app store
roading network is excellent. Most roads – even smaller rural thoroughfares – are paved, though small, scenic, back-country roads may
Campervan fun, Bay of Plenty
have unsealed, gravel surfaces, and some are four-wheel-drive territory. motorhomes. The Auckland Regional Council
drive long distances in big, unfamiliar vehicles as
such 4WD vehicles in their range, along with
(ARC), for example, allows camping in several
soon as they step off the plane. Better to spend
every shape and size of car. Some companies
regional parks (see www.arc.govt.nz) and the
the first night near the airport and then get on
specialise in motor homes, from small, budget
Department of Conservation (www.doc.govt.
your way.
vans to luxury self-contained models.
nz) manages some 240 vehicle-accessible
Vehicle rental companies usually have
Major international car-rental companies are represented here and home-grown firms often have very good deals.
camping areas on conservation land. Beware, though: some jet-lagged long-haul visitors have come to grief by attempting to
Several hire companies advertise in the pages of arrival and some offer readers special discounts and privileges – check out the vouchers section at the front of this magazine.
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!
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
CAMPING OUR WAY To help keep New Zealand’s beautiful
contained motor-homes with toilet and
environment clean, tourism groups
waste disposal can use some places. A
have come together in the Responsible
brochure, website, and smartphone app
Camping Forum. They ask that in the spirit
give useful information such as details
of kaitiakitanga (guardianship), visitors
of campgrounds (including freedom
respect the unique flora and fauna, and
camping sites), regional information, and
help keep towns, cities, parks, beaches
safety tips. If in doubt, ask at the local
and bush free from pollution and waste.
i-SITE, DOC office or holiday park. See
Visitors are asked to leave no trace of their
www.camping.org.nz
trip for the collective benefit of current and future generations. Campers must use designated camping
A new Freedom Camping Bill allows for $200 instant fine for illegal camping. A successful prosecution for illegally
spots, whether it’s a Department of
discharging a campervan’s sewage
Conservation site, commercial holiday
will enable courts to impose fines up
park or freedom camping spot. Only self-
to $10,000.
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COACH For those who like to be driven and prefer a more organised agenda, coach tour companies like GreatSights take charter groups or individuals, whether for a half-day sightseeing tour, a full day, a week, or even a month. Accommodation, most meals and sightseeing are usually included in the price package, and you will receive friendly service and an informative commentary. Kiwi Experience, Stray Travel and Magic Travellers Network offer budget package options, and regular scheduled bus services operate between towns and cities, and also link with inter-island ferry services. Intercity Coachlines visits more than 600 towns and communities throughout New Zealand every day. Even scheduled services usually have a commentary, so you will still learn about the country as you travel. Local towns and cities have public transport networks, and several have city sightseeing tours and/or convenient Mountain biking at Craters of the Moon
LOW COST, QUALITY CAMPERS AND CARS 2 BERTH CAMPER 5+ DAY BOOKINGS
$97
COMPACT CAR
$62 per day*
per day*
2 Berth Camper price based on Breezer Campervan, 5+ day rate, for travel 22 – 28 January 2012. Compact Car price based on daily rate, for travel 17-31 January 2012. Rates change weekly so contact our Reservations team for the best daily rate. Minimum hire applies, offer subject to availability and liability reduction cover is additional. For full terms and conditions contact Backpacker Campervan and Car Rentals.
24/7 0800 081 025 BOOK NOW CALL backpackercampervans.co.nz
FOR FREE
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arrival New Zealand
facebook.com/backpackercampervans twitter.com/BackpackerVans
hop-on, hop-off options that loop around
service across the Foveaux Strait to
the main attractions. Try Auckland
Stewart Island.
Explorer, CitySights in Rotorua and Wellington and Citibus in Dunedin.
Local ferries, such as those that service Auckland’s seaside suburbs and Hauraki Gulf islands, are a convenient way to
WATER Water transport ranges from high-thrill jet boats that race over river rapids, to stately steamers, ferries, launches and large yachts, available either for excursions or charter.
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
Ferries link the North and South islands
service otherwise inaccessible areas and
of New Zealand, crossing Cook Strait daily
most will organise sightseeing agendas.
between Wellington and Picton in the Marlborough Sounds. The Interislander
AIR
operates three ferries, the Arahura, Kaitaki
Air New Zealand services most domestic
and Aratere, all of which carry passengers
destinations, with Jetstar providing budget
and vehicles. In good weather the trip takes
services on a restricted network. Air New
three hours, with up to five return sailings
Zealand’s Eagle Airways, Mount Cook
between Wellington and Picton each day,
airlines and Air Nelson fly to regional
depending on the season. The crossing
and tourist centres and small commuter
has been described as “one of the most
air services link smaller towns.
beautiful ferry rides in the world”. At the bottom of the country, there’s a launch
One-way internet fares between Auckland and Christchurch may be as low TAUPOS FLOATPLANE
Book now and get your first day free* when you rent for 5 days or more with Avis. Just one of the many reasons why renting a car with the friendly and dedicated team at Avis will help get your summer holiday off to a fantastic start. Don’t miss out, simply visit avis.co.nz or call 0800 655 111 and see why travelling with us just feels better. *
Valid until 31 March 2012, blackout dates apply between 21 December 2011 to 4 January 2012 and 6 February 2012 to 17 February 2012. Coupon number TPNA052 must be quoted at time of booking, further conditions apply. Visit avis.co.nz or call 0800 655 111 for full details.
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with the ferry service to Wellington.
as $49 (sometimes even less), depending on flight dates and specials. Generally,
The Overlander links Auckland and
low-rate Auckland- Christchurch fares
Wellington via the Central North Island.
range from $75 to $119. If you’re not
The scenic 12-hour trip passes through
tied to a schedule, snap up an incredibly
some of the North Island’s most inaccessible
cheap deal on Air New Zealand’s Grabaseat
areas, and includes many amazing tunnels,
– specials are loaded every day.
viaducts and bridges. It departs both Auckland and Wellington at 7.25am daily
Charter planes and helicopters are available throughout the country for
during peak season, but only on Friday,
scenic flights.
Saturday, and Sunday during off-peak times. For dates see www.tranzscenic.
RAIL
co.nz or phone 0800 872 467. Rail buffs head for Dunedin to catch the
Rail travel takes in some of the most beautiful stretches of countryside. The
daily Taieri Gorge scenic rail experience,
daily Tranzalpine service from Christchurch
travelling across the Taieri plains and over
to Greymouth over Arthur’s Pass in the
the spectacular gorge on a four-hour
Southern Alps is a case in point. The train
return journey into the past. The Track
crosses breathtaking scenery and its service
& Trail coach/rail option from Citibus
has earned international accolades. You
offers a link to and from Queenstown.
can travel there and back in the same day.
Around the country, societies of rail
The Coastal Pacific between Christchurch and Picton is another scenic journey, this
enthusiasts operate short excursions on restored engines and tracks.
time following the east coast. It connects Taieri gorge railway, Wingatui Viaduct
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MENTION THIS ADVERT WHEN MAKING A BOOKING AND GET A FREE MAGIC T-SHIRT TO BOOK PHONE 09 358 5600 OR VISIT www.magicbus.co.nz
arrival New Zealand
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WHAT’S
NEW
HOT FAKE IT in style!
Not everyone can do an actual bungy jump, but plenty of people are keen to fake it. That’s why Taupo Bungy is offering scaredy-cats that can’t pull off the real thing the opportunity to FAKE IT in New Zealand’s first permanent green room. Anyone who doesn’t have the nerve to take the plunge for real can get iconic NZ photos on a fake background. It’s fun, memorable and affordable – so what are you waiting for? FAKE IT!!
SAILING AWAY The Napier Sailing Club hosts around 220 young sailors from fifty countries during the World Championship Optimist regatta, December 30 – January 10. They’ll be competing in the “Opti” - a safe, simple sailing dinghy that has been the first craft of many famous sailors. Optis will be available for the public to have a go, and spectator boats will get close to the action on the water. The Opening Ceremony is on New Year’s Eve where all countries will carry their national flag and will be welcomed in a typical Kiwi way. See www.optiworldsnz.org.nz
THE POI ROOM AT BRITOMART This new retail gallery in the historic Britomart precinct is a stunning showcase for contemporary New Zealand art and design, with a special focus on Maori art. Named for the vibrant Maori poi dance, The Poi Room shows a stable of established and emerging Kiwi artists working in media from paint to bronze to textiles. As well as paintings, photography and sculptural pieces, The Poi Room offers jewellery, greenstone, ceramics, weaving and handmade gifts, cards and homewares. Open seven days. www.britomart.org/poi-room.
Contact 0800 888 408, www.taupobungy.co.nz
CHANGE OF PERSPECTIVE The first thing you notice at Stuart Landsborough’s Puzzling World in Wanaka is the crazy architecture – but that’s merely the beginning. Enter this eccentric world and discover incredible Illusion Rooms that feature holograms, famous faces that follow your every move, a room that distorts normal perspective, and a tilted house that will turn your brain on its side! Get lost in the Great Maze, a modern-style labyrinth that boasts 1.5km of puzzling passages. There’s also a puzzle centre, a café, and gift shop. See www.puzzlingworld.co.nz, phone 03 443 7489
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HEALTH FROM THE HIVE Discover the Manuka Doctor “Apitherapy” Collection – naturally healthy products inspired by nature and originating from the hive. The collection uses Purified Bee Venom (PBVTM) and manuka honey in fabulous products that have antiageing and anti-bacterial benefits. The core ranges are apiclear, which balances troubled skin, apinourish to protect and moisturise, apiwellness which boosts wellbeing, and apirevive – restorative natural remedies. See the full range at www.manukadr.co.nz or visit the Manuka Doctor Store, corner Quay & Albert Sts, Auckland City.
SKY’S THE LIMIT
PICTURE THIS
Whether you’re after a sightseeing
Wanaka-based creative Christopher Thompson has
flight over New Zealand’s stunning
opened The Picture Lounge to promote the work
landscape or a charter to a city, a
of talented New Zealand-based photographers.
festival, an event, or an exclusive,
Exquisite pieces showcase the delights and dramas
remote hideaway, talk to the
of Central Otago, while other works capture the
folks at Izardair. This new luxury
essence of broader New Zealand and beyond the
scenic flight and air charter service
borders. Work can be purchased either framed or as
operates modern King Air C90
loose prints, in open and limited editions, and you
Turbo Prop and Piper Seneca
can order from digital and physical catalogues.
Twin-engine aircraft from Taupo
48 Helwick Street, Wanaka, (03) 443 5033,
Airport, where it offers a luxurious passenger lounge, refreshments,
gallery@thepicturelounge.co.nz
transfers, conference room and a full VIP service. Tour itineraries and sightseeing flights can be customised to suit, and they can fly you direct to nationwide locations, including airstrips where larger aircraft cannot land. T: 07 3787835 E: info@izard.com W: www.izardair.com
MAKING A SPLASH Rainbow Springs Kiwi Wildlife Park in Rotorua is already an icon of New Zealand tourism, and is set to become even more impressive when the “Big Splash” experience opens in early January. This exciting high-tech ride takes boatloads of up to eight people on a fun, educational journey that provides an insight into the ecology, history and culture of New Zealand. It will feature a running commentary, state-ofthe-art animation and an adrenalin boosting plunge at the end. The project also includes construction of an outdoor 384-seat, free-flight bird show auditorium. Web: www.rainbowsprings.co.nz. Phone 0800 724 626
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NORT 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
6 Kaitaia
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
Black Water Rafting
Levin
SOUTH PACIFIC OCEAN
ST RA
IT
Masterton
CO
OK
WELLINGTON 9 26
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Cape Palliser
SOUTH Isl a n d m a p w w w. a r r i v a l . c o . n z
TASMAN SEA
Golden Bay
1 Takaka
Kaiteriteri Kayak
1 2 Tasman Bay
Blenheim
CO OK
NELSON
Westport
2
Buller
River
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
ri River
Waimakari
Ashburton
R ak ai a Ri ver
Canterbury Bight
Temuka Lake Hawea
Omarama
Timaru
Milford Sound
Wanaka
QUEENSTOWN 6
Doubtful Sound
4 7
Lake Wakatipu
Lake Te Anau
Ranfurly
Oamaru
Encounter Kaikoura
Alexandra
Te Anau
DUNEDIN
5 Gore
Up Up and Away
7 NZONE Skydive
Balclutha
INVERCARGILL FO
VE
Bluff
AU
X
ST
RA
IT
6
SOUTH PACIFIC OCEAN STEWART ISLAND/ RAKIURA
Shotover Jet
8 Helicopter Line
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27
NORTHLAND’S SULTRY SUMMER DAYS
Northland
ARE PERFECT FOR EXPLORING ITS LONG SANDY BEACHES, SECLUDED COVES
w w w. a r r i v a l . c o . n z
AND SECRET HARBOURS. MAJESTIC
Soaking up
sunshine
KAURI FORESTS AND INTRIGUING MUSEUMS OFFER COOL RESPITE FROM THE HEAT.
O
ften called the birthplace of the nation, Northland is steeped in both Maori lore and European history.
Its stunning scenery is complemented by rich stories and legends that seem to intensify as you proceed further north. The easiest way to get there is via the Northern Gateway Toll Road on SH1 ($2 one-way for cars), but the free route between Orewa and Puhoi is more picturesque, winding through seaside settlements such as Waiwera, with its hot pools. An hour from Auckland CBD is the Matakana Coast, a developing wine region that boasts around a dozen wineries, most offering cellar-door tastings. There are good cafés and restaurants, craft shops, art galleries and potteries. Matakana Village is a “slow food” town and its lively Saturday morning Farmers’ Market sells fabulous local produce such as oysters, olives, organic cheese, breads and much more. On the coast past Matakana, Goat Island Marine Reserve, the country’s first, has a rich, easily accessible underwater ecology. It’s close to the vast expanse of Pakiri Beach, and Tawharanui Regional Park, which also has a marine park. Like Goat Island, it’s ideal for snorkelling and diving. Back on the main highway, drive to the Brynderwyn Hills and either continue towards Whangarei or turn left on SH12 towards Dargaville. Either way you’ll still be on the Twin Coast Discovery Highway, a scenic route that starts in Auckland and opens up the best of this fascinating region. A left turn takes you around the tip of the expansive Kaipara Harbour to Dargaville. This intriguing area has been the site of many shipwrecks, some of which are still being newly exposed by shifting sand. Many artefacts are kept in Dargaville’s interesting hilltop museum. This coast is kauri country, where you can see awe-inspiring examples of the giant trees
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Cruising in the Bay of Islands
that once covered Northland. The mighty
heart of the nation.
forests were logged in the 19th century for
Through Opononi, follow the harbour
houses and ships’ masts. The excellent Kauri
to Rawene and browse the craft galleries
Museum at Matakohe tells the story of this
while you wait for the car ferry that crosses
impressive tree – and those whose lives it
the Narrows to Kohukohu. Tiny Kohukohu
influenced. About 30km north of Dargaville,
was once a busy timber town and there’s
which was once a thriving kauri timber port,
an interesting walking trail around its lovely
consider a detour to picturesque Kai Iwi
historic buildings. Continue through rolling
Lakes, then continue to Trounson Kauri Park
farmland to Ahipara at the bottom of the
to see some really big trees. Bigger trees wait,
famous 90 Mile Beach, then on to Kaitaia, the
though, in the Waipoua Kauri Forest. Waipoua is
main service town for the Far North. From here
home to Tane Mahuta (Lord of the Forest), New
you can drive through Awanui and Houhora to
Zealand’s tallest kauri, standing 52 metres tall.
the very top of New Zealand, Cape Reinga, but
From there it’s a 15-minute drive to pretty
to really absorb the scenery, leave your car and
Omapere and Opononi on the Hokianga
join a bus tour up Ninety Mile Beach.
Harbour. A lookout above the villages has
According to Maori legend, Cape Reinga
amazing vistas of the harbour and the giant
is where the spirits of the dead depart for
sandhills on the northern shore. Down the hill
the ancestral homeland of Hawaiki. There’s
in the village, stop at the visitor centre cum art
a lighthouse and splendid views of the
gallery, and take a stroll to the statue of Opo,
tumultuous meeting of the Pacific Ocean and
a friendly dolphin that once captured the
Tasman Sea; at nearby Te Paki Stream, you can
Northland
must-dos
Go sandboarding on towering golden dunes Laze the day away on an isolated beach Take a day cruise to the Poor Knights Islands Admire Tane Mahuta and the kauri forests Enjoy stunning scenery while you play a round of golf Take a ride up Ninety Mile Beach to Cape Reinga Sail Paihia to the Hole in the Rock
The Poor Knights Recently 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 history, which is dramatic, turbulent and – considering the inhospitable nature of the craggy isles – astonishing. The Poor Knights are currently being considered for World Heritage status and the pure, clean waters provide some of the best diving in the country. In fact Jacques Cousteau rated the Poor Knights among the top 10 dive sites in the world. Dive! Tutukaka has a brilliant “Dive the Five” package that takes in Northland’s top five dive sites, including the Poor Knights. Nondivers will love their “Perfect Day” trip which offers sightseeing, kayaking, cave explorations, snorkelling, swimming, fish-cam viewing, sea mammal-spotting – and great food! Freephone (in NZ) 0800 288 882; www.diving.co.nz
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slide down giant sandhills. Back at the foot
Zealand’s capital. Waitangi is where the
of the peninsula turn east on SH10. If there’s
nation’s founding document was signed in
no hurry, detour up the beautiful Karikari
1840, and the Treaty House and its elevated
Peninsula, or otherwise skirt Doubtless Bay to
grounds offer superb views over the bay.
Mangonui, a seaside settlement famous for its heritage trail and fresh fish and chips. Follow the shores of pretty Whangaroa
toilet. Next are the Waiomo glowworm caves
game fishing. Turn off at Waipapa towards
and the fortified Maori pa at Raupekapeka,
Kerikeri, a charming historic town boasting
and you can turn off at Hikurangi for bays,
citrus orchards, cafés, galleries and good
beaches and dive spots on the Tutukaka
accommodation. Before town, stop at
Coast, which National Geographic Traveler
Rainbow Falls, then drive to New Zealand’s
recently rated second equal in its geo-tourism
oldest buildings – Kemp House (1821)
assessment of coastal destinations worldwide.
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At Whangarei Town Basin, cafés and
postcard-perfect splendour beside the inlet.
restaurants front the marina. The city has a
Both are open to the public. Kerikeri is known
great Museum and Heritage Park, as well as
for its outstanding fruit, vegetables and
lovely Whangarei Falls. Whangarei’s attractive
wine, and its lively Sunday Farmers’ Market
town centre is a relaxing place to shop, or
is a great place to sample and buy fresh fare
for something special, visit The Quarry Arts
direct from the growers and producers.
Centre, a collective of artists working in a
Continuing south, Paihia is the place to
bushy haven that was once a quarry. If you’re
experience the beautiful Bay of Islands. Take
looking for somewhere to eat and drink, you
a boat trip to the Hole in the Rock or even
can’t go past the Killer Prawn restaurant or
an overnight cruise, swim with dolphins,
lively McMorrissey’s Irish Pub and Eatery.
go deep-sea fishing or catch the foot
THE KAURI MUSEUM MATAKOHE
Kawakawa’s famous Hundertwasser public
Harbour, a fishing hotspot that’s a base for
and the Stone Store (1832) – which sit in
WHALE BAY
Head south through Opua, and even if you don’t need to, make a comfort stop in
Meander back to Auckland detouring to
ferry across to quaint Russell, a one-time
Waipu, with its Scottish heritage, and the
whaling station – and briefly, in 1840 – New
seaside town of Mangawhai.
surfing the giant sand dunes of Te Paki
Great reasons to visit:
Northland Ultimate Cape Reinga Experience PRESENT THIS FOR
FREE KEYRING
Discover the scenic far North on our purposebuilt off-road vehicle. Visit Gumdigger Park, Spiritual Cape Reinga and drive along 90 Mile Beach. • Cape Reinga via 90 Mile Beach Adventure
Conditions apply. Valid to 30 April 2012
Ultimate Bay of Islands Experience PRESENT THIS FOR
FREE KEYRING
Unique marine mammal experiences, including the ‘Hole in the Rock’, or swim with the dolphins. • Discover the Bay ‘Hole in the Rock’ Cruise and Dolphin Watching • Swim with the Dolphins Eco-Cruise Conditions apply. Valid to 30 April 2012
Ultimate Twin Tours Experience PRESENT THIS FOR
FREE KEYRING
Book a Twin Tour for your ultimate Northland Experience! BEST DEAL GUARANTEED! • Dune Rider Cape Reinga via 90 Mile Beach • Discover the Bay/Swim with the Dolphins Conditions apply. Valid to 30 April 2012
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AUCKLAND
w w w. a r r i v a l . c o . n z
Auckland Waterfront
Sizzling
IN SUMMER, AUCKLANDERS REVEL
in the city
N
IN THE VAST, BEAUTIFUL MARITIME PLAYGROUND THAT SURROUNDS THE CITY. WHETHER IT’S ON OR OFF THE WATER, THERE ARE MANY WAYS FOR VISITORS TO JOIN THE FUN
ew Zealand’s largest city (pop. 1.3
Locals love to get out on the water and the
supercharged waterborne thrills, take a wild
million) spreads over a narrow isthmus
Waitemata in particular is always dotted with
jetboat ride with Auckland Adventure Jet.
between the Manukau Harbour in
craft. There are plenty of options for visitors
Even when they’re not actually on the
the west and the Waitemata Harbour in the
to share this passion, whether it’s helping sail
water, Aucklanders like to get close to it.
east, which in turn opens out into the island-
a former America’s Cup yacht, taking a luxury
They head to popular Mission Bay and St
studded Hauraki Gulf. Nowhere in Auckland is
cruise, going fishing, kayaking, renting a jet
Heliers; they stroll along Tamaki Drive; they
far from the water and visitors will soon work
ski, or simply taking one of the scheduled
make for eastern beaches or the black sand
out why it’s dubbed the “City of Sails”.
ferries that criss-cross the harbour. For
surf beaches of the wild west coast; they sit
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at cafés, restaurants and bars around Princes Wharf and Viaduct Harbour, where you can also delve into New Zealand’s maritime history at the National Maritime Museum. The Viaduct is central to new public spaces which are proving popular with both visitors and locals. The Wynyard Quarter is linked by a drawbridge, and offers an interesting combination of eateries, open spaces and playgrounds amid an industrial waterfront landscape. A quaint heritage tram provides transport to the precinct, and signposts guide walkers to Victoria Park Market and beyond. Also at the harbour end of the city is Britomart, a new development that incorporates the city’s transport hub, as well as spanning several blocks of beautifully preserved mercantile warehouses and cutting edge new buildings. It’s home to hip bars, cafes and restaurants, a Saturday Farmers’ Market and some wonderful designer shopping. 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 began and get up close to sharks, stingrays, New Zealand’s only sub-Antarctic penguins, and more. 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 of
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Wynyard tram, photo by Dennis Richardson
Beautifully situated in the heart of Auckland’s Viaduct Harbour, Kermadec offers a uniquely New Zealand dining experience. All dishes are prepared with passion by the talented team of Kermadec Chefs.
AUCKLAND MUSEUM
the city. Another option is to catch the high-
attractive outdoor space for major public
speed lift up the Sky Tower (see box).
events and everyday activity. The square lets
Auckland offers all the amusements and facilities you’d expect in a large, modern
on to cinemas, theatres and the Auckland Town Hall.
metropolis, while retaining a welcoming,
Walk up Wellesley St East to reach the
small-town vibe. As you’d expect, there’s
Auckland Art Gallery and the lovely haven
a huge range of excellent dining and
of Albert Park. The Domain, further east,
accommodation options with choices to suit
is a much larger park, with bush walks,
every taste and budget.
formal gardens and glasshouses full of exotic plants. It also contains the excellent
CENTRAL AUCKLAND Queen St is the city’s main north-south
Auckland Museum. Auckland Zoo is internationally respected
artery and shopping strip. It houses major
and great entertainment. It’s set at the
retail chains, and running off or beside it
edge of Western Springs Park, which wraps
are smart precincts like High St, Vulcan Lane
around a picturesque lake. MOTAT — the
and Chancery, with their boutique offerings.
Museum of Transport and Technology — is
The recently redeveloped Aotea Square
nearby. Its astounding collection has been
is a focal point for the city and offers an
enhanced by the recent addition of a Arrivals Magazine Dec11 01.indd 1
7/12/11 5:01 PM
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stunning new Aviation Hall, which is already
and leafy streets lined with elegant villas.
receiving accolades for design. Chamberlain
Nearby, North Head Historic Reserve has
Park, a very good 18-hole public golf course,
tunnels, gun emplacements and fortifications,
is also in the vicinity.
as well as brilliant views over the Gulf.
You’ll find pleasant cafés and restaurants,
There’s a fascinating self-guided walk, and
food and wine stores, supermarkets,
the 1885 stone kitchen is now a theatre
bookshops and galleries in inner suburbs like
(open 8.30am-4pm) that shows a film on
Ponsonby, Grey Lynn, Mt Eden, Kingsland and
North Head’s history. The interesting new
Parnell. These inner-city suburbs are within 10
Navy Museum is in King Edward Parade,
minutes’ drive of the CBD.
Torpedo Bay, at the base of North Head. Mt Victoria, the North Shore’s highest volcanic
NORTH SHORE Starting just over the harbour bridge, North
heritage area, and the self-guided Northcote
region boasts 140 kilometres of pohutukawa-
Point heritage walk offers a leisurely stroll past
fringed beaches, spacious parks and attractive
lovingly restored villas, and along a beautiful
scenery. It’s a busy events destination, with
coastline that offers spectacular views.
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Takapuna is an urban centre with a breezy,
boutique shops, modern cafés and upmarket
coastal vibe. Beautiful Takapuna Beach and
restaurants, as well as an interesting history
Lake Pupuke are great places to while away
and thriving artistic community.
the day. Dedicated mall-goers should head to
Devonport has a village-like atmosphere,
36
Northcote Point is another interesting
Shore is easily reached by road or ferry. The
many sporting venues, shopping malls,
View from Devonport to rangitoto
cone, also provides panoramic views.
with excellent eateries, galleries, boutiques,
Albany, where the country’s largest shopping mall – Westfield Albany – offers an exciting
Stop At The Top You can’t miss Auckland’s distinctive 328-metre Sky Tower, but as I discovered on a recent visit, SKYCITY is more than just the tower. However, since the tower is a focal point, our first stop was the main observation deck. As we admired the incredible 360 degree views, a jumper plunged from above, waved as he dangled momentarily in front of surprised onlookers, and continued his rapid descent to the ground below. This is the Sky Jump, an exciting but controlled leap from 192 metres above the ground. Other daredevils teetered around the Sky Walk, a dizzying (but harnessed) walk around the outside of the tower on a narrow walkway. It all looked very exciting, but we were happy to sip coffee and watch from an armchair in the Sky Lounge. This casual café is one of three dining options at the top – the others are Orbit Revolving Restaurant, which offers a superb a la carte menu, and The Observatory, a brasserie-style buffet. Down below, SKYCITY Casino offers a different kind of excitement, with a world-class selection of gaming tables and machines as well as a plethora of bars and restaurants. After a quick meal at Fortuna buffet, we had a few spins at Rapid Roulette then tried our luck at the gaming machines. Sadly, the numbers didn’t spin our way, and we retired to our luxurious room at SKY CITY Grand Hotel. The Grand is one of two hotels in the complex (the other is SKYCITY Hotel) and offers some of Auckland’s best dining experiences. We’d previously lingered over a fabulous meal at dine by Peter Gordon, and this time we had two new options, Depot by TV chef Al Brown, or The Grill by Sean Connelly, the creation of which was documented in the TV series “Under the Grill”. We chose the latter, and enjoyed a superb meal in The Grill’s chic but casual surroundings. Limited time meant we couldn’t try SKYCITY’s other restaurants or indulge at East West Day Spa – but that’s something to look forward to next time.
- Editor
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mix of fashion, food, and movie theatres. Albany’s North Harbour Stadium hosts major sporting fixtures, concerts, and other entertainment.
WAITAKERE To the west, still within Greater Auckland, Waitakere exists against a backdrop of bush-covered ranges and a rugged coastline of black, volcanic sand surf beaches such as Karekare, Piha and Bethells (Te Henga). The latter looks like a mini Sahara, with rolling dunes dropping down to a small inland lake. Numerous artists’ studios and galleries welcome visitors, and some of the ten or so vineyards out this way were planted by the country’s first winemakers. The hilly village of Titirangi on the Scenic Drive has good cafés and a very good gallery, Lopdell House. There are 16,000 hectares of temperate rainforest in the Waitakere Ranges Regional Park, with 250km of walking and tramping tracks providing access to beaches, streams, SAIL NZ
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waterfalls, historic homesteads and farms
overlooking the wild west coast. At the Arataki Visitors Centre on the Scenic Drive you’ll find information about track conditions, weather and tides and guided walks.
MANUKAU Manukau, 25 minutes south of Auckland city, is a blend of town and country, with 320km of coastline. The central urban area has a vibrant Maori and Pacific culture. It’s also home to Auckland Botanic Gardens, and Villa Maria Winery and Vineyard Park is minutes from the airport. The long-established Rainbow’s End theme park provides thrills without spills, and its awesome Invader ride is a fantastic addition. Rated in the top three attractions at overseas theme parks, the Invader’s huge whirling disc will spin you like you’ve never been spun before, giving you gut-churning G Force sensations. Botany Town Centre offers award-winning shopping and the Grange Golf Club is internationally renowned. Rural Manukau begins on the outskirts of Howick, itself well
MURIWAI GANNETS
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AucklAnd MuseuM
Devonport
nAu MAI HAeRe MAI WelcOMe
Getting around The frequent LINK bus services are an easy, inexpensive way to get around. The Red LINK is a free service that
Auckland Museum is one of the finest museums in the Southern Hemisphere, renowned for its unique collection of Māori and Pacific treasures. It is the only place in Auckland where you can experience the warmth of a Māori cultural performance and take a guided tour of Māori treasures every day.
connects the city with the waterfront every ten minutes, while the green Inner Link ($1.80 maximum fare) and amber Outer Link ($1.80 $3.40) connect to places such as funky K-Road, the restaurant, café PENGUINS AT KELLY TARLTONS
and shopping strips of Ponsonby, Parnell and Newmarket, Victoria Park Markets, MOTAT, St Luke’s Mall and more. Alternatively, the $10 BusAbout
Open daily 10am to 5pm. Admission by donation. $10 per adult is suggested, children are free. Charges apply for special exhibitions and events.
Pass has unlimited rides after 9am ($25 family), while the $15 Discovery day pass includes some ferry services. You can also use the hop-on, hopoff Auckland Explorer Bus (one-day adult $40, two-day adult $65; $20 child, $30 group (10 or more) $90 family) which visits Auckland’s big 14 attractions. See www.maxx.co.nz, CLEVEDON OYSTERS
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www.explorerbus.co.nz
DISCOVER NEW ZEALAND’S ONLY COLONY OF
SUB-ANTARCTIC PENGUINS
AUCKLAND ZOO
worth visiting for its charming specialty
vineyards, forest, sandy coves and rocky
shops. The miniature Howick Historical Village
shores, where small settlements combine
is in nearby Pakuranga. Take a ferry from
city sophistication and village charm.
Auckland, then a short bus ride to Howick.
These include Puhoi, which was settled by
Around Clevedon and beyond is rolling
Bohemians in 1863. Stop for a drink at the
countryside fringed by the sparkling Hauraki
historic pub, browse galleries and antique
Gulf. It’s packed full of low-key things to
shops, and sample Puhoi Valley Cheese. Other
do and see, including Ayrlies Garden at
towns include Matakana Wine Village, and
Whitford, a stunning country garden sculpted
Warkworth, with its heritage buildings and
from a bare paddock. Succulent Clevedon
peaceful riverside boardwalk.
oysters harvested fresh from the sea are a
The district encompasses popular regional
good enough reason to visit, and you can
parks such as Mahurangi and Wenderholm,
continue down the Pohutukawa Coast to
which blend farm, riverine, coastal and forest
the Seabird Coast, with its amazing flocks of
environments. They offer sheltered picnic
migratory birds, stopping to visit the coastal
and play areas, barbecues, camping, walking
regional parks of Omana, Duder, Tawhitokino
tracks, and of course, aquatic activities. At
and Tapapakanga on the way.
Wenderholm you can visit historic Couldrey
There are numerous charming rural B&Bs,
restored and is now run as a museum, (open
Bay or Pine Harbour Marina gets you to
weekends 1 – 4pm). Historic exotic trees are a
Auckland city.
feature, with some planted back in the 1860s. Mahurangi has Scott Homestead, a Georgian-
Just beyond North Shore in the Rodney region, the line between city, coast and country blurs. It’s an area of farmland,
S SEAHORO M D K I N G PEN NOW O
ONLY 10 MINS DRIVE FROM AUCKLAND CBD
House, a gracious homestead which has been
and a short ferry ride from either Half Moon
Further north
NEW!E
FREE SHUTTLE
style house which dates back to 1877. The
Plus come face-to-face with thousands of other fascinating deep sea creatures! Save 10% by booking at kellytarltons.co.nz 0800 80 50 50 Open 9.30am daily. 23 Tamaki Drive, Orakei, Auckland.
restored homestead is only available for private functions but the front garden and exterior are extremely picturesque.
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View of Piha beach
Market Days Victoria Park Market is a long-established daily market that is currently undergoing a $20 million renovation. Twenty new shops and restaurants are scheduled to open by midDecember with another 20 opening shortly after, and another forty by March 2012. See www.victoria-park-market.co.nz. 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-abrac. It’s in the centre of Otara, enter from Newbury St. City Farmers’ Market, Britomart
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Great reasons to visit
AUCKLAND
Dreams Can Come True PRESENT THIS FOR
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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
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PRESENT THIS VOUCHER & RECEIVE A 10% DISCOUNT INSTORE Visit Manuka Doctor Store, Cnr Quay & Lower Albert Sts, Auckland City.
ISLANDS OF THE GULF w w w. a r r i v a l . c o . n z
Gulfislands
VISIT SOME OF AUCKLAND’S FINEST JEWELS, NESTLED IN THE GULF
The island is twenty minutes by ferry from
Wynyard Wharf. Fullers seasonal service
downtown, and once there, an hour-long walk
runs December 17 – April 9, with adult fares
to the summit is rewarded with 360-degree
starting at $109, off peak.
views over the gulf, or take Fullers’ Volcanic
Kawau
Explorer 4WD road train.
Kawau Island’s picturesque Mansion
Tiritiri Matangi
House was the home of New Zealand’s first
Managed by the Department of
Waiheke
governor, Sir George Grey, who introduced
Conservation, this is one of two open wildlife
many exotic plants and animals. The island
sanctuaries in New Zealand. Wander freely
still has some wild Australian creatures such
boomed in recent years, thanks largely to
among a profusion of birds, many rare or
as kookaburras, possums and wallabies, all
fast ferries (Fullers $35 return, child $17.50,
endangered. If you take the 75-minute 360
regarded as pests. The Kawau Island Historic
family $89) which take 35 minutes from
Discovery trip (Wed – Sun, 9am from Pier 4,
Reserve protects Mansion House, its gardens
Auckland’s downtown ferry terminal on Quay
Quay St, arrives back 4.50pm) it’s well worth
and surrounds, as well as remnants of the
St. Fullers also offers some great packages
paying $5 extra for a guided walk with a
historic copper industry. Water taxis shuttle to
and tours, such as the Wine on Waiheke Tour.
knowledgeable volunteer.
the island from Sandspit near Warkworth, or
The most populous island in the gulf has
Vineyards produce sought-after vintages, cafés and restaurants boast fine menus and
you can join the mail cruise, delivering mail
Great Barrier
and goods while learning about the island
wine lists, and accommodation ranges from
Remote Great Barrier is ninety kilometres
backpacker to five-star lodges. The island is a
northeast of Auckland, and boasts bushwalks,
great place for walkers and cyclists (bikes go
swimming, surfing, kayaking, fishing, diving,
free on the ferry, or hire one at Matiatia wharf).
biking, horse-riding and abseiling. There are
during an informative three-hour cruise.
Rotoroa In February 2011 Rotoroa Island opened
natural hot springs and dramatic canyon
to the public for the first time in over 100
bus ride from the wharf at Matiatia. There
walks. A climb to the top of Mt Hobson yields
years. For decades the island was a Salvation
are lovely, accessible beaches at Oneroa, Palm
fabulous views over the gulf to Coromandel
Army drug and alcohol rehabilitation centre,
Beach and Onetangi. Buses and taxis serve
and Auckland. The waters around the island
so as well as enjoying beaches and bush
the island and scenic tours may include wine,
are visited by whales, turtles and manta rays.
walks, visitors can explore the heart of the
olive oil and art trails.
Hire a car or take a tour. There’s a wide range
old treatment centre’s community, including
of accommodation and you can camp in
the jail, chapel, schoolhouse and cemetery.
designated campsites.
A state-of-the-art exhibition centre features
Waiheke’s main town is Oneroa, a short
Rangitoto The distinctive, almost symmetrical cone of
Fly there in 30 minutes from Auckland
artworks, and an exhibition on Rotoroa’s past
Rangitoto Island is an Auckland icon. At a mere
airport (Great Barrier Airlines, $198-$248
and future. 360 Discovery runs ferry services
600 years old, it’s the youngest volcano in the
return), or take the Sealink EcoIslander car/
five times a week.
region, and its curious basalt lava landscape
passenger ferry ($85 - $120 return but
supports the world’s largest pohutukawa forest.
check for specials). Departs Brigham Street,
Great reasons to visit: Waiheke Island r e s ta u r a n t • w i n e b a r • c e l l a r d o o r
Enjoy fine food, wine, art and breathtaking harbour views in an award winning venue on a picturesque vineyard estate.
Just a 5 minute drive or short walk from the Waiheke ferry terminal 12 Nick Johnstone Drive, Oneroa, Waiheke Island Phone: 09 372 5889 www.cablebay.co.nz
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Wineries of Waiheke The 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 wellknown 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, Te Motu and
MUDBRICK VINEYARD
Te Whau. Many 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. The Restaurant and Wine Bar at Cable Bay Vineyard overlook a swathe of olive trees to the Hauraki Gulf and Auckland city. Its fabulous wine is complemented by top quality food, and the whole experience is enhanced by an extensive collection of sculptures and paintings by leading New Zealand artists. CABLE BAY
Coromandel - Auckland Ferry ENJOY A SCENIC CRUISE TO THE COROMANDEL WITH 360 DISCOVERY
Cruises depart downtown Auckland. Take a day trip and experience the Coromandel Town Explorer Tour. Or if you have more time, two-day tours are also available. To find out more and book, visit www.360discovery.co.nz or call 0800 360 3472
WAIHEKE
ISLAND WINE & FOOD EXPERIENCES WITH FULLERS Waiheke Island is New Zealand’s island of wine and an Auckland must-do for both locals and visitors alike. Packed with beaches, vineyards, art studios, olive groves, laid-back seaside villages, native bush and spectacular scenery it’s the ideal summer escape. Spend a day making your way around the vineyards, sampling some of New Zealand’s best wine and artisan food. Combine your ferry fare with either the Fullers Taste of Waiheke, Wine on Waiheke, or Waiheke Island Hopper tour to really make the most of your time on the island. If you’re pushed for time, the Explorer Tour will give you a condensed sight-seeing tour in 90 minutes.
Call us to book on (09) 367 9111 or visit www.fullers.co.nz. facebook.com/360discoverycruises
FACEBOOK.COM/FULLERSFERRY
TWITTER.COM/FULLERSFERRY
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COROMANDEL w w w. a r r i v a l . c o . n z
Cathedral Cove, COROMANDEL
Lazy, hazy days
of summer
A LONG, LAZY BEACH HOLIDAY ON THE COROMANDEL IS A TIME-HONOURED KIWI
inspiration for many talented, creative people,
TRADITION. AS WELL AS ENJOYING THE IDYLLIC COASTLINE, VISITORS SHOULD
and visitors will discover galleries, studios and
TAKE A WALK IN THE RAINFOREST, VISIT ARTISTS, AND DISCOVER THE REGION’S GOLD MINING HERITAGE.
R
unique attractions hidden around each corner and tucked into every bay. Small towns linked by the pohutukawafringed Pacific Coast Highway offer myriad
enowned for its beauty, The Coromandel
James Cook in 1769. In the 19th century the
options, whether its exploring the gold
is an outdoor haven where rugged
peninsula bustled with the trade in timber
mining history at Thames or Waihi, browsing
forest-clad hills sweep down to a
and kauri gum, with the discovery of gold
the galleries in and around Coromandel
magnificent, varied coastline. The laid-back
adding to the boom. Eventually the natural
Town, or fishing or surfing at Whangamata.
culture – locally known as ‘Coromandel time’
resources were exhausted, and farming,
Beautiful beaches like New Chums and
– adds a relaxed ambience to a Coromandel
fishing, horticulture and tourism stepped into
Opoutere are waiting to be explored, and
visit and the region is best experienced
the breach.
digging a hot pool in the sand at Hot Water
by meandering slowly around the entire
People who appreciated the beautiful but
Beach is something of a tradition. In the
peninsula.
scarred landscape came to settle in the area,
hinterland, atmospheric forests offer dozens
The area was first discovered by two great
and were instrumental in getting much of the
of walking trails ranging from gentle strolls to
navigators, the legendary Polynesian navigator
peninsula protected by the Department of
serious hikes.
Kupe in 950AD and English explorer Captain
Conservation. Today that environment provides
Two special but completely different
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coromandel
must-dos
Coromandel attractions typify the creativity,
restaurant, and a day spa.
inventiveness and dedication of long-time
To add focus to a Coromandel journey,
residents. One is the Driving Creek Railway
consider taking one of the self-guided trails,
near Coromandel Town, which is the
whether it’s a heritage trail, an art trail or a
vision and life-work of artist, engineer and
food trail. The Coromandel “Homegrown
conservationist Barry Brickell. This innovative
Food Trail” is a year-round trail of the area’s
narrow-gauge railway negotiates spirals,
producers, cuisine businesses and cafés, and
tunnels and viaducts as it creeps up through
includes the region’s famous oysters, mussels
replanted kauri forest to a mountain-top
and scallops, as well as macadamias, organic
terminus, which has panoramic views of the
cheese and much more. An intriguing new
island-studded Hauraki Gulf, forested valleys
trail around the peninsula follows the life and
and mountains. Down below, visitors can
times of Boer War hero Walter Callaway. The
visit the working potteries, a craft shop and a
trail visits many locations and attractions, and
sculpture garden.
encompasses Callaway’s Maori ancestry, his
The other is the glorious Lost Spring at
involvement in gold mining and logging, as
Whitianga, an upmarket spa facility that’s the
well as his war exploits.
culmination of the dream of Alan Hopping.
Coromandel’s landscape and lifestyle
Twenty years ago, Hopping became
encourage a wide variety of events and the
fascinated by tales of a healing hot spring in
summer calendar is jam-packed with fun
Highland Games & Tattoo.
Whitianga’s Taputapuatea Stream and thanks
happenings in beautiful locations. Check out
Whether you arrive by ferry, car or plane The
to his vision, today trees and ferns combine
the Whangamata Summer Festival (December
Coromandel has a range of accommodation
with crystalline thermal pools and waterfalls
28 – January 1) or the Peace Festival
to suit all tastes, ranging from cosy cabins to
to create a lush paradise. The facility even
(December 30 – January 8). The hugely
luxurious lodgings.
boasts a gemstone cavern, an underground
popular Tairua Wine and Food Festival will be
Find out more about events,
grotto and a smoking volcano as well as an
held on January 7, while on February 11, the
activities and accommodation at
historic schoolhouse that houses a stylish
sounds of Scotland reverberate at the Paeroa
www.thecoromandel.com
Swim at postcard-perfect New Chums Beach Go sea kayaking at Cathedral Cove Explore the new Walter Callaway Trail Get high on the spectacular Driving Creek Railway Warm body and soul in the beautiful Lost Spring
Gold MINING Relics, Karangahake
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49
waikato
w w w. a r r i v a l . c o . n z
Whatever
the weather WAITOMO’S EERIE SUBTERRANEAN WORLD OF LOFTY CAVERNS AND INTIMATE GROTTOS BARELY CHANGES WITH THE SEASONS. ABOVE-GROUND, EXPLORE ITS RUGGED COASTLINES, LUSH PASTURES AND WORLD-CLASS GARDENS.
W
Ruakuri Cave
aitomo’s famous limestone cave
through any of the caves will explain how
and now hosts the country’s longest guided
system was formed by millions
the spectacular stalactites and stalagmites
underground walking tour. The Black Water
of years of land movement, rain,
developed over hundreds of millennia, and
Rafting Co. – with whom you float along
and river erosion, resulting in a dazzling
guides often intertwine natural history with
underground rivers in a truck inner-tube – also
display of nature’s artwork. Throughout
legends of this historic district.
operates tours through this cave. Aranui Cave
the 50km labyrinth, caverns and grottos
is the smallest and most delicate of Waitomo’s
Perhaps the best-known subterranean
are decorated with intricate sculptures that
attractions are the Waitomo Glowworm
three main caves. It’s home to a colony of
hang suspended from the ceiling, or grow
Caves with their grand Cathedral cavern
cave wetas (large, horned insects) and a
from the cave floor. The scene is softly
and famous Glowworm Grotto. The access
stunning collection of stalactites, stalagmites,
illuminated by millions of native New Zealand
point to these caves is the striking new
flowstones and decorative formations.
glowworms – tiny, twinkling creatures that
Waitomo Glowworm Caves Visitor Centre,
turn ceilings and walls into mesmerising,
which has already won awards for its stunning
all ages and abilities. For something sedate,
star-filled nightscapes.
architecture. With a gallery, exhibition space,
how about walking over suspended walkways
theatre, gift shop, restaurant and café, the
where the only sounds are the echoes of
Centre is set to become an attraction in itself.
hidden waterfalls? If you’re not afraid of the
The mystical Ruakuri (“den of dogs”) Cave
dark or confined spaces, blackwater rafting,
In many cases, underground streams and rivers allow visitors to view the wonders from boats or inflatable tubes that glide silently through meandering passages. A guided trip
has been reopened after an 18-year closure
There are subterranean adventures to suit
invented in Waitomo, could be for you.
Great reasons to visit: The Waikato Kiwi paka 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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Wetsuits are provided to keep you warm
to do above the ground. The vivid green
Hamilton Gardens. This 58ha public garden
and hot showers are a welcome end to your
land offers a placid escape where you can
has a world-class reputation, with its
underground adventure. You can also abseil
trek through rugged limestone-studded
pavilions, lakes, terrace café and feature
into deep caverns and undertake other
hills, explore limestone tunnels and enjoy
gardens encompassing everything from herbs
adrenalin-inducing underground activities.
360-degree views of the sweeping valleys.
to Italian Renaissance themes. The gardens
Several tour companies offer the whole
Walks through beautiful native bush lead
attract more than 1.3 million visitors a year.
adventure package.
to natural wonders such as the plunging
Hamilton Zoo, with its rare Sumatran tigers
Marokopa Falls, or the astonishing 17m-long
and white rhinos, is another visitor favourite.
Waitomo Adventures, for example, has a menu of guided caving adventures
two-tiered limestone arch known as
that includes blackwater rafting, abseiling
Mangapohue Natural Bridge. At Ruakuri Scenic Reserve, you’ll find a
into caves through deep, sunlit shafts,
Outside Hamilton there are many other attractions and activities. Forty-five minutes west of Hamilton is Raglan, a town that has
underground flying fox, climbing, jumping,
natural tunnel set against a backdrop of
long attracted surfers to its curling surf breaks.
swimming and various combinations of these.
native bush and at Kawhia you can dig your
These days the town buzzes with funky cafes,
own hot pool in the black sand at Ocean
restaurants and galleries. There are plenty
rafting, caving and abseiling fun. Caveworld’s
Beach. The remains of the ancestral Tainui
of outdoor activities, including a surf school.
own spectacular cave system incorporates
waka (canoe) are buried on the local marae at
An easy walk meanders around the peaceful
glowworms, stunning limestone formations,
Kawhia, and the village remains a stronghold
harbour, or drive beyond the surf breaks at
and even ancient moa bones. Caveworld’s
of Maori history. There are some low-key
special experiences include “The Canyon”,
activities based around the massive harbour
“Black Magic” and night abseiling.
and the surrounding hills.
Caveworld is a provider of blackwater
Greater Waikato’s above-ground landscape
Whatever you choose, it’s certain to provide a mysterious and truly memorable trip through
also offers plenty of variety. The main city
the middle of the earth, through a treasure
is Hamilton, just ninety minutes’ drive from
that’s been 30 million years in the making.
Auckland, and on the main trunk railway.
Back in the light of day enjoy the excellent
The Waikato River, the country’s longest
range of drinks, food and entertainment at
waterway, slides through the heart of the
Curly’s Bar, right in the heart of Waitomo
city and excellent walking and cycle-ways
Caves Village. Curly’s has a lovely view of
meander along its banks. Waterborne
the nearby hills and is a short walk to the
activities such as rowing, kayaking,
holiday park and Kiwi Paka, a top-rated
jetboating, scenic boat tours and water-skiing
backpackers offering large, sunny decks and
are popular pursuits on this river and on other
a range of accommodation.
rivers, lakes and dams in the region. The Waikato River curves alongside the
The caves are the focus of the King Country sub-region, which also offers plenty
city’s special treasure, the magnificent
CAVEWORLD
Waitomo’s 5 Star Eco-Glowworm Experience. This Cave Tour Is unique – Enjoy numerous Glowworm displays, a relaxed atmosphere; take your time & immerse yourself in this truly Memorable Glowworm experience. CaveWorld holds exclusive rights to operate in the Footwhistle Glowworm Cave.
Freephone 0800 228 228 338 Freephone 0800 338
Next to Waitomo Museum, Waitomo Village info@caveworld.co.nz info@caveworld.co.nz www.caveworld.co.nz www.caveworld.co.nz REDSPARK 1107-1871
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51
Mokena Spa Baths Te Aroha
Manu and Whale Bays to an unpopulated area
has everything from backpacker hostels,
of rough roads and wild coastline where the
motel units and campgrounds to the historic
slopes of Mt Karioi sweep down to the shore.
Waitomo Caves Hotel, homestays and
A walking track leads to the summit of the
charming B&Bs. The accommodation choice is
mountain but if the westerly wind is howling,
mirrored elsewhere in the Waikato.
duck into the shelter of the Te Toto Gorge
Hamilton has a strong café culture centred on
Track and scramble down the steep, forested
the southern end of Victoria Street, and there
sides to the open grassy areas on the cliff tops.
are good cafés and restaurants, and high-
Pretty Bridal Veil Falls are just off the unsealed
quality produce throughout the district.
country road that links Raglan and Kawhia,
Adjacent to Waikato is the Matamata/Piako
worth the twenty-minute walk.
district, where Lord of the Rings fans can visit
There are also hot springs at Waingaro,
the Hobbiton film set from the movie trilogy.
west of Ngaruawahia, as well as at Matamata
It’s on a working sheep and beef farm, so
and historic Te Aroha. In Tirau and Cambridge
visitors can see the remnants of the set as well
you’ll find shops full of antiques and crafts.
as enjoying a rural experience. Filming of The
Te Awamutu has gorgeous roses and
Hobbit takes place on site this year, so check
Otorohanga’s famous kiwi house and bird
ahead for opening times.
sanctuary are a delight. Otorohanga is also
The region encompasses the historic spa
the country’s Kiwiana capital, celebrating
town of Te Aroha, which boasts the country’s
everything from pavlovas to buzzy bee toys.
only complete Edwardian domain. Within this
The lush Waikato pastures make it the
peaceful precinct you can drink the curative
country’s dairy capital, and it’s home to some
waters at a soda spring, watch the Mokena
of our greatest racehorses. You can watch
Geyser erupt, visit an interesting museum,
cheese-making and sample and buy cheese
and soak your feet in a warm path-side pool.
near Matamata, or tour a horse stud at
The revamped Te Aroha Mineral Spa is the
Cambridge. You’ll also find horse-trekking
star attraction, where you can soak in one of
adventures, hot-air ballooning, bushwalking,
eight private soda pools or take a dip in the
mountain-biking, wine-tasting and golf.
open-air public pools. Visitors to Matamata/Piako can also visit the
Accommodation
Firth Tower Museum or the specialty cheese-
The region has accommodation to suit
maker, Kaimai Cheese. Another option is a
every pocket and preference. Fancy staying
half-day walk to Wairere Falls in the Kaimai
somewhere unique? Perhaps you’d like
Ranges, where a bush track leads to platform
to sleep in a plane, a train, a boat – or a
offering spectacular views of the 153-metre
Hobbit motel? Take your pick. Waitomo
waterfall.
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Rap, Raft ‘n’ Rock
5
SPECTACULAR CAVING ADVENTURES IN ONE
ABSEILING + CAVING + RAFTING + GLOW WORMS + ROCK CLIMBING
KIWI CAVE RAFTING KIWI CAVE RAFTING
95 Waitomo Caves Road Waitomo, New Zealand Phone: + 64 7 873 9149 www.caveraft.com NZ FREEPHONE: 0800 228 372
HAMILTON GARDENS
Gardens of the world G
arden lovers, or those who simply love
the Fantasy Garden Collection; the Cultivar
to linger in a beautiful setting, flock to
collection features the story of plants
Hamilton Gardens, a 58-hectare public
selected and bred for the garden; and the
park at the southern end of Hamilton City.
Landscape collection has areas representing
Bounded by the Waikato River, this manicured
the different historic interpretations of an
treasure explores the theme “the story of
idealised landscape.
gardens” through a series of five wonderful
The gardens have an information centre
garden collections. A favourite is the
and a pleasant café. Entry is free and they’re
Paradise collection with gardens representing
open daily from 7.30am – 8pm in summer,
significant garden design traditions. The first
and until 5.30pm in winter. Guided tours can
of the six Paradise gardens was the peaceful
be arranged through the Hamilton Gardens
Chinese Scholar’s Garden, and the most
Information Centre (ph. 07 838 6782).
recent is the striking Indian Char Bagh, with its distinctive Mughul pavilion. Other collections are the Productive
The vibrant Hamilton Gardens Arts Festival runs February 17 - March 1, offering a diverse programme of comedy, concerts, theatre,
Garden, which shows aspects of the
visual arts, film, family, and food events. Many
relationship between people and plants;
events are free. See www.hamiltongardens.
forms of garden fantasy are represented in
co.nz or phone (07) 859 1317.
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HAMILTON GARDENS photo by Coomer Family World Adventures
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
arrival New Zealand
â–
55
summer
Slice of
bay of plenty w w w. a r r i v a l . c o . n z
SNORKELLING AT MOUNT Maunganui
A GREAT MIX OF FUN ACTIVITIES, SCENIC ATTRACTIONS, CULTURE AND FOOD EXPERIENCES MEAN THE SUNNY “BAY” HAS LONG BEEN A TOP HOLIDAY DESTINATION FOR BOTH KIWIS AND VISITORS. IN SUMMER, THE REGION’S MANY
T
he Bay of Plenty extends along the Pacific
and hunters. Those in search of sun, sand and
Coast Highway, following the east coast
surf are spoiled for choice. Mount Maunganui
of the North Island from Waihi Beach
and Papamoa are the premier beach and surf
to Whakatane. It sits along an active volcanic
destinations, but fine beaches stretch along
zone, and the forces beneath have created
the entire coast.
a diverse environment of islands, mountains
No visit to the Bay is complete without a
and geothermal areas. The main urban area is
stroll around the base, or to the top, of
Tauranga, which boasts a vibrant arts, culture
Mauao (Mount Maunganui). The 3.4km
STUNNING BEACHES ARE AN
and entertainment scene, with many local
base track offers brilliant ocean and city
IRRESISTIBLE LURE.
and touring events on offer. The Tauranga Art
views, making it easy to understand why
Gallery showcases historical and contemporary
it’s walked by over a million people each
art exhibitions and hosts national and
year. At the base of Mauao, New Zealand’s
internationally-sourced exhibitions.
only saltwater hot pools are a great place
The city’s enviable location offers myriad
to unwind after a busy day in “the Bay”.
options for beachgoers, boaties, fishermen,
Adventure lovers can blast on a Blokart (the
divers, kayakers, jetskiers, windsurfers, hikers
locally invented land sail-craft) or take a scenic
flight over the region – and perhaps skydive
capital of the world’, where you can learn
in one of the North Island’s most scenic drop
all about kiwifruit at Kiwi360. Te Puke is
zones. Later, take Waimarino’s atmospheric
also home to Comvita, the manufacturers
glow-worm kayaking trip on Lake McLaren.
of health and beauty products made from
After wine and nibbles on the lake’s edge,
manuka honey. Not far away in Katikati – New
at dusk you’ll kayak to a glowworm canyon,
Zealand’s mural town – you can follow a mural
where thousands of these tiny, twinkling
trail as well as the riverside Haiku Pathway.
creatures adorn the walls.
Bay of Plenty wines and other local fare
Maori culture runs deep in the Bay and there
are on offer at Morton Estate in Katikati or
are numerous wahi tapu (sacred places) and
Mills Reef in Tauranga. For nightlife, head
many marae. Coastal Maketu was the landing
to the Strand on the Tauranga waterfront,
place of the Te Arawa waka (canoe) following
where numerous restaurants and bars offer
the migration of early Maori, which makes
something for everyone. The region boasts a
it an exceptionally significant cultural and
variety of accommodation options, ranging
historical site. Visitors can learn about the
from beachfront apartments and holiday
region’s strong Maori heritage on a guided
parks to motels, hotels, luxury retreats,
cultural tour or a marae visit. Tauranga is also
B&Bs and backpackers.
home to the Elms Mission House, an important
For more information, visit
historic site linked to European settlement.
www.bayofplentynz.com.
bay of plenty
must-dos
Walk to the top of Mauao, then cool down with a swim at Main Beach Gasp at amazing aerial acrobatics at the Tauranga City Airshow, January 28 & 29 Soak in the Mount Maunganui Hot Salt Water Pools Get to the seaside village of Maketu and grab a famous Maketu pie Absorb the exhibitions at the excellent Tauranga Art Gallery
Smaller towns include Te Puke, the ‘kiwifruit
Waihi Beach
Tauranga art gallery
WHAKATANE w w w. a r r i v a l . c o . n z
WHITE ISLAND
Smoke on the
water
IF YOU STAND ON ONE OF THE EASTERN BAY OF PLENTY’S GORGEOUS BEACHES AND LOOK OUT TO SEA, CHANCES ARE YOU’LL SEE THE STEAM PLUME FROM WHITE ISLAND DRIFTING SKYWARDS.
K
nown as Whakaari in Maori, White
volcano’s steaming crater lake is something
and diving gannets during the voyage.
Island is an active marine volcano 48
you’re not likely to forget. The island’s sheer
Alternatively, take an exciting whirl with Vulcan
kilometres offshore from Whakatane.
physical power and scale is enormous, with the
Helicopters and see the volcanic action from
It’s accessible via guided tours, and stepping
main crater stretching 1.5km across and the
above before landing on the crater floor and
ashore here takes you into a different world – a
perimeter soaring 300m overhead. Trekking in
walking to edge of the crater lake. Fixed wing
stark, rocky, treeless landscape of hissing steam
line as part of a group, you feel as insignificant
scenic flights are also available.
vents, swirling sulphur and volcanic debris.
as a procession of ants.
Learning about its geological features and
The large, comfortable launch operated by
While White Island is the region’s undisputed icon, the Eastern Bay is a popular holiday
human history (including the abandoned
White Island Tours makes the trip in ninety
destination for Kiwis, who treasure its old-
sulphur works) from an experienced guide
minutes, allowing two hours on the island. A
style coastal culture of baches, beaches and
is fascinating and the guided walk up to the
bonus is the chance of seeing playful dolphins
barbecues. The undeveloped coastline, secret
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coves and forested interior offer a wealth of
significant pa sites, seabird colonies, bird-filled
nature-based activities such as ocean and
native forest and superb coastal, rural and
river fishing, snorkelling and scuba diving,
forest vistas.
swimming (including swimming with dolphins), beachcombing, walking and hunting. The main town is Whakatane, a picturesque
Ohope stretches to the Ohiwa Harbour, where thousands of seabirds make their home on the mudflats and sandbanks. Ohiwa’s calm
coastal town tucked under a rocky hill alongside
waters are popular for fishing, sailing, water
the Whakatane River. Its size (population 15
skiing, kayaking and windsurfing – or you
000) means it has all the amenities of a busy
can simply indulge in fresh oysters at the local
metropolis without the crowds. It’s less than an
oyster farm. Not surprisingly, the region is rated
hour’s drive from both Rotorua and Tauranga,
as a top fishing destination for both freshwater
and it’s also right on the Pacific Coast Highway
and saltwater fishing, and an excellent charter
touring route that follows the scenic east coast
boat fleet operates out of town.
of the North Island. Adding to the town’s scenic beauty is Whale
While game fish like tuna and marlin abound in summer, at any time of year you
Island, which looms just off the river mouth. As
can try for tasty snapper, tarakihi and hapuka
well as offering kayak trips to along the coast,
(groper) which lurk around the offshore reefs.
this summer KG Kayaks has added a kayaking
The region’s accessible beaches are ideal for
trip around Whale Island to its programme. It
surfcasting, and the rivers and streams
starts with a boat trip to a sheltered bay on the island where the kayaks are launched. Expert
offer myriad opportunities to fish for trout, whether it’s fly or spinning in the wild waters
guides provide a commentary on the history
of Te Urewera National Park, or boat and
and natural environment, and paddlers can
shore fishing in lakes, rivers and streams. The
expect encounters with fur seals and penguins
The Tarawera, Rangitaiki and Whakatane
– and if conditions are favourable, you may be
Rivers run through the district, offering walking
able to paddle inside sea caves.
tracks, trout fishing, rafting and jet boating.
Gorgeous beaches fringe the region,
Add some of the country’s highest sunshine
including the 11-kilometre sweep of Ohope
hours, a strong Maori identity, plenty of good
and pretty Otarawairere Bay, a tree-fringed
cafes and accommodation options, and you’ve
cove that’s only accessible by foot. Both
got a superb destination that’s ever so slightly
beaches are on the Nga Tapuwae o Toi
“off the beaten track”.
walkway, a 16 kilometre walk that can be
Otarawairere Bay, Whakatane
For visitor information, see
sampled in sections, depending on your level of
www.walkthevolcano.co.nz or contact
fitness. Different parts of the walk encompass
0800 942 528.
Mataatua Wharenui, Troy Baker
WELCOME HOME! Visitors will soon be warmly welcomed to Te Manuka Tutahi Marae, the modern Maori community of the Ngati Awa people. The marae will be a focus for traditional and contemporary practices and at its heart will be Mataatua, a beautiful 1860s meeting house that has travelled the world. Now Mataatua has finally returned home and has been lovingly restored to its original majesty. This summer, its remarkable story will be brought to life with dramatic multi-media technology.
Great reasons to visit: Whakatane
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Rotorua
w w w. a r r i v a l . c o . n z
ROTORUA LAKES
Steaming into
summer
R
otorua’s lakes, rivers and forest provided the first inhabitants, the
POWERFUL FORCES BENEATH ROTORUA HAVE CREATED TURBULENT GEOTHERMAL FIELDS AND CALM CALDERA LAKES SET AMID LUXURIANT FORESTS. A RICH MAORI HISTORY, A LONG-ESTABLISHED SPA TRADITION AND MANY ADVENTURE ACTIVITIES ARE PART OF THE MIX.
became a popular spa resort. Today’s visitors can enjoy similar
culture in New Zealand. Just over a third of the region’s population is Maori, with
experiences with many places to see
around 35 marae, and various cultural
food, while the geothermal resources gave
bubbling mud pools, active geysers and
attractions. Visitors can easily experience
an endless supply of hot water and steam for
steaming lakes. You can soak in the soothing
this living culture, whether it’s sampling
the hangi (earth ovens). Early tourists came
waters of a hot spring, unwind with a
indigenous food, learning its fascinating
to view the region’s unique natural wonders
therapeutic spa or massage, or ease aches
history and legends, enjoying a hangi and
and experience its welcoming Maori culture.
and pains with a mud wrap sourced from
concert, or trying carving, weaving and
In the 1880s the healing powers of Rotorua’s
local geothermal areas.
traditional games. It’s also a good place to
Arawa people, with a rich source of
geothermal waters were recognised, and it
Rotorua remains the heartland of Maori
see Maori artisans carving pounamu (jade),
RAFTABOUT
bone or wood using traditional and
Highway 5, you’ll catch glimpses of Lake
modern methods.
Rotorua from the top of the rugged Mamaku Ranges. This is one of many
the Rotorua region (forestry is an important
accessible lakes where you can fish for trout,
industry), offering myriad options for short
swim, kayak, take a cruise or simply stroll on
walks, hiking, mountain-biking, horse-riding
a lakeside beach.
and bird-watching. In Whakarewarewa Forest,
The lakes district – an easy twenty
five minutes’ drive from the city centre,
minutes drive from the city centre – offers
stately Californian redwoods stand guard
plenty of walking options. A 5km track
over a network of walking and biking tracks
around Blue Lake winds through pine forest
suitable for all skill levels. The forest is free to
and reveals several good swimming beaches.
the public throughout the year. Further out,
Okareka Walkway is a 5.5km return walk
Whirinaki Forest and Te Urewera National Park
through farmland, beach, lake and wetland
offer spectacular hiking and bird-watching in
scenery. A well-formed bush walk in Okere
magnificent native rainforest.
Falls Scenic Reserve has lookouts over the
Adding to the region’s natural beauty is a network of stunning lakes. Approaching Rotorua from the northwest on State
rotorua
ultimate experiences
Okere River and its waterfalls. Kayak over the calm waters of Lake Rotoiti on a new excursion offered by Waimarino.
SKYLINE, LUGE
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
Native and exotic forests cloak much of
TE PUIA
SKYLINE, GONDOLA
It combines scenery, a glowworm cave and
AGRODOME
POLYNESIAN SPA
Some of the Agroventures rides, including
released back into the wild in their original
hot pools with tales of Maori myths and
the quirkily named ZORB and Shweeb,
habitat. Both kids and adults will love the
history.
originated in Rotorua and consequently
chance to get up close to New Zealand’s
the region has become a popular place to
iconic, but normally elusive, bird.
Coming from the northwest you’ll pass
Golfers will revel in the many golfing
attractions such as Off Road New Zealand,
challenge your spirit. Experience thrilling
Agroventures and Skyline Skyrides, which
360-degree spins in a jetboat, raft or sledge
experiences on offer, which include
comprise part of the region’s growing range
down a choice of rivers (trips vary in difficulty),
everything from resort-style golf courses
of adventure activities. Skyline Skyrides
or get your blood pumping with a scree slide
of an international standard, through to
is an old favourite with New Zealanders.
into the crater of an active volcano.
boutique and country courses with some of
This all-weather attraction is set on Mt
Other attractions provide plenty for
the best views in New Zealand. After an active day, soothe the body and
Ngongotaha (487m), and is guaranteed to
all the family. Paradise Valley Springs
get the blood pumping. Three exciting luge
Nature Park features wild trout, animals
mind with a wellness experience. For a day
– three-wheeled carts – tracks snake over
and birdlife in a native bush setting. Lion
spa, try Hell’s Gate and Wai Ora Spa where
five kilometres of the mountainside, so don
feeding takes place daily at 2.30pm and
you can feel the earth’s raw power with
a safety helmet and feel the wind in your
shouldn’t be missed. The Agrodome, a
New Zealand’s only mud bath. The city’s
face as you hurtle downhill.
160-hectare working sheep and cattle farm,
Polynesian Spa was recognized by Conde
gives visitors a hands-on farming experience
Nast Traveller as one of the top ten medical/
which sends you skywards at 120kph,
and a chance to interact with commercially
thermal spas in the world. It also has a
providing amazing views of Rotorua city and
farmed animals. The world-renowned sheep
family pool. Families will also find gallons of
the lake from the safety of your harness.
show runs three times a day and includes
fun at Waikite Valley Thermal Pool.
Atop Mt Ngongotaha is the Cableway
shearing, lamb feeding and cow-milking
Restaurant and Bar, the perfect location to
demonstrations.
Also on site is the exhilarating Skyswing,
dine while enjoying panoramic views. Open
Rainbow Springs Nature Park is home to
As a premier tourist destination for both domestic and international visitors, Rotorua has a wide range of dining and
daily, it’s fully licensed with capacity for 499
Kiwi Encounter, a working hatchery and
accommodation options, with choices to
people. They serve breakfast, café meals, a
nursery. Kiwi are hatched and nurtured
suit all budgets and tastes.
buffet lunch, and a nine-course buffet dinner.
here, and when mature enough they are
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Stars Of History In the late 1800s, the New Zealand government decided to capitalise on the curative powers of Rotorua’s thermal waters and began developing a fashionable European-style tourism and healing resort that included bathhouses, promenades, a band rotunda, a tea-house, and natural geothermal features set amid ornamental gardens. Today Rotorua’s tranquil Government Gardens are still home to the picturesque 1908 Bathhouse, which was once an internationally renowned medical spa. The imposing Bathhouse now houses the excellent Rotorua Museum – a storehouse of treasures featuring permanent galleries and cinema experiences that cover everything from the Mt Tarawera eruption, to Maori history and the spa era. The other iconic building in the gardens is the splendid Blue Baths complex, which opened in 1931. While other Rotorua bathhouses were mainly for medicinal purposes, the Blue Baths were purely for pleasure. Elegant Spanish-style architecture, white tiles, sun balconies and diving towers, submerged lighting and sparkling sapphire pools echoed the movie-star glamour of the era. Not only that, it marked the first time that men and women could bathe together in public, and mixed bathing at the Blue Baths quickly became de production that marks the 80th anniversary of the opening of the juvenile pool in December 1931. This glamorous celebration of the swing era and is all about chic, when cats were cool, dames were peaches, and music was a way to forget Great Depression worries for a few hours. 1931 runs Thursdays and Fridays throughout
5
PACKAGE DEALS
rigueur. This atmospheric venue is the setting for 1931: The Show, a musical theatre
%
OF F
(nott applicable li bl ffor groups of 10 or more passengers, Agropass package or in conjunction with any other special offers)
December, then Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays during January and February. See www.historic-venues.co.nz
Paradise Valley Road, Ngongotaha, Rotorua, New Zealand Freephone 0800 949 888
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Tarawera
Night Of Fire On May 31 1886, it was business as usual at Te Wairoa village near Lake Tarawera. Local Maori were busy paddling early tourists across the lake, where the brooding hulk of Mt Tarawera loomed on the opposite shore. Their destination was the spectacular Pink and White Terraces of Rotomahana, which tumbled like wide silica waterfalls through tangled BURIED VILLAGE
rainforest to the lake, with hot blue waters overflowing through scalloped bathing pools. On that day, both locals and tourists noticed the lake level suddenly fall and rise, and many saw a ghostly Maori war canoe slip silently out of the mist. No such canoe was known in the area, and frightened Maori called it a waka wairua - a spirit canoe that meant impending disaster. Ten days later in the early hours of June 10, 1886, the three peaks of Mt Tarawera erupted violently and beneath Lake Rotomahana, a deadly mixture of water, gases and magma exploded, burying the Pink & White Terraces beneath the lake and smothering the surrounding land – including Te Wairoa and other villages – with ash and mud. The final death toll will never be known, but at least 120 people perished in what remains the largest eruption since European settlement. Rotorua Museum has an excellent gallery dedicated to this cataclysmic event and at Lake Tarawera, the Buried Village of Te Wairoa gives an intriguing insight into the events of that fateful night. As well as excavated archaeological sites, there’s a museum, a Maori whare, a pioneer cottage, and a cafe – all in a pretty bush setting that boasts good walking trails. Lake Tarawera is a peaceful place that offers swimming and bush walks, boating and fantastic trout fishing. There are scenic cruises and fishing trips or you can hire a kayak or take a water taxi to places around the shore. Natural hot pools fringe the lake, and at Hot Water Beach you can dig a hole in the steaming sand to cook your trout (or melt chocolate for a fondue!). The scenic drive to Lake Tarawera passes Lake Tikitapu and Lake Rotokakahi (the Blue and Green Lakes) and a short detour leads to Lake Okareka. Mt Tarawera can only be accessed on organised helicopter or 4WD tours from Rotorua.
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New Zealand’s premier Māori cultural centre and home of the world famous Pohutu geyser
Te Puia Highlights
Te Wānanga Whakairo Rākau The National Carving School The prestigious art of carving is passed on to young trainees under the skilled guidance of graduate and master carvers.
Our guided tours Experience our great guiding tradition in the variety of tours we offer. The stories they relay have been handed down for generations.
Te Rito - The National Weaving School Our weaving school trains students in the art and skills of traditional weaving.
Ngā Manu Ahurei - Kiwi House A rare opportunity to view New Zealand’s national bird, the endangered kiwi here on site at Te Puia.
Ngā Mōkai a Koko Mud Pool This large pool of boiling mud (kaolin clay) is one of the features of the geothermal activity in Te Whakarewarewa valley.
Te Pō Te Pō is an indigenous evening experience. It is a feast of cultural storytelling, entertainment and Māori cuisine.
Daytime Cultural Performance Experience the very best of Māori performing arts including the graceful poi and the powerful haka.
Opening Hours Summer: 8am - 6pm | Winter: 8am - 5pm Guided Tours: Hourly from 9am (last tour departs 5pm Summer, 4pm Winter) Daytime Cultural Performances: 10:15am, 12:15pm, 3.15pm Te Po: 6pm - 9pm
OPEN 365 DAYS
NEW ZEALAND MAORI ARTS AND CRAFTS INSTITUTE
Hemo Road (southern end of Fenton St), Rotorua, New Zealand | Telephone +64-7-348 9047 | Freephone 0800 83 7842arrival | www.tepuia.com New Zealand 65 ■
Rotorua region map
M or e p ar a St m
Rotongata
Kaharoa
33
1 Off Road NZ 36
Okere Falls
2 Zorb
5
Whangamarino Hamurana
SCENIC RESERVE
4 Skyline Skyrides
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Waiteti
8 Mokoia Island
Tikitere
13 Polynesia Spa Haroharo
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Great reasons to visit: Rotorua 5
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MAKATITI DOME SCENIC RESERVE
LAKE OKAREKA SCENIC RESERVE
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Tourism Information and Bookings
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15 WaiOra Lakeside Spa Resort
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Hannahs Bay
Lake Rotoma 30
12 Agrodome WAIONE BLOCK SCENIC RESERVE
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4
Lake Rotoma
11 New Zealand River Jet
Lake Rotokawau
Te Ngae
RO
3
Ruato
Rotoiti The Buried Village Gisborne 9 Point 10 NZONE Skydive
St re
2 12
8 Hells Gate
a ll s
Ngongotaha
1
Lake Rotorua
30
Hauparu Bay
30
33
Rotoehu
6 Te Puia Hinehopu 7 Whakarewarewa
anne l Ch
LAKE ROT SCEN RESER
Lake Rotoehu
5 Raftabout
Lake Rotoiti
Mourea
Awahou
3 Rainbow Springs MATAWHAURA
LAKE ROTOITI SCENIC RESERVE
Lake Rotoiti
LAKE ROTOKAKAHI SCENIC RESERVE
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Kapenga Wa
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Hot Water Beach
Tumunui
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WAIMANGU SCENIC RESERVE
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PRESENT THIS VOUCHER FOR
10% DISCOUNT ON DAYTIME ADMISSION
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Waikite Valley
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NEW ZEALAND MAORI ARTS AND CRAFTS INSTITUTE
Hemo Road, Rotorua 0800 83 7842 www.tepuia.com
OPEN EVERY DAY
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Rerewhakaaitu ON am
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Maungaongaonga 825
Rainbow Mountain 740
Rotowhero (Green Lake) RAINBOW MTN SCENIC RESERVE
S tr e
ma ko
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MAUNGAONGAONGA SCENIC RESERVE
LAKE REREWHAKAAITU SCENIC RESERVE
Rotomahana
k in
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Lake Rerewhakaaitu
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St r O ta
Waimangu
Aw a r
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5
Ma
Ka
Mount Tarawera 1111
Te Rata Bay
PRESENTATION OF THIS COUPON RECEIVE 10% OFF ADULT ADMISSION
• 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 We provide a great introduction to Rotorua, its history and its people.
City&LakesTours
A FU ADVENTNU ALL AGE RE S WILL ENJOY
www.rotoruaducktours.co.nz Bookings Essential Ph 07 345 6522
Discover Rotorua on a unique sightseeing adventure - amazing amphibious tours!
DuckTOursArrival_Landscape.indd 1
Present this voucher to receive 10% off* admission. Open daily 8am-late Fairy Springs Rd, Phone 0800 724 626 www.rainbowsprings.co.nz
*Not available with special deals or combos.
TOUR 2
TOUR 1
Experience
NEW ZEALAND ICONS
$10
RIVERJET THERMAL SAFARI New Zealand’s Best Value
JET BOAT EXPERIENCE! OFF PER PERSON BOOK DIRECT*
NATURAL HOT SPRINGS 260 - 400
2.5 Hr Trip - Hot Springs Canyon Walk Over 1 Hr Jetboating
2.5 Hr Trip - Free Thermal Park Included Over 1 Hr Jetboating
BOOKINGS ESSENTIAL: TRIPS DEPART DAILY 11.00AM AND 2.00PM ON DEMAND - DURATION 2.5 - 3 HOURS
0800 RIVERJET (0800 748 375) www.riverjet.co.nz
4/07/11 12:36 PM
Summer’s great at the
taupo
“ Great Lake”
w w w. a r r i v a l . c o . n z
LAKE TAUPO
JUST 3½ HOURS DRIVE FROM AUCKLAND LIES MAGNIFICENT LAKE TAUPO – NEW ZEALAND’S “GREAT LAKE”. ITS EXPANSIVE WATERS OFFER A MYRIAD OF WATER-BASED ACTIVITIES, BUT THERE’S ALSO PLENTY TO DO ON LAND.
L
ake Taupo (pronounced toe-paw)
experiences and activities, ranging from
and Sanctuary, which offers an excellent
covers an area roughly the same size as
jetboating to volcanic air safaris, hot pools to
international 18-hole golf course with an
Singapore, and was formed thousands of
skydiving, and lake cruises to trout fishing.
ecological edge. The course/sanctuary now
years ago by a massive eruption.
Tramping, bungy jumping over the Waikato
has a five-kilometre predator proof fence
Taupo town hugs the northern shore of the
River, 4x4 motorbiking, whitewater rafting,
around the perimeter, meaning that the
great lake, and is the main population base for
horse trekking, mountain biking, abseiling
native plants and bird life are protected and
the region. It’s a popular holiday spot for both
and rock climbing are all on offer, and the
flourishing.
Kiwis and visitors, and offers great shopping,
region has several very good golf courses.
In the warmer months (or in winter if you
restaurants, and many accommodation options.
Among these are the Jack Nicklaus designed
dare!) Lake Taupo’s beaches are popular
It’s also the base for a huge number of
Kinloch Club, and the Wairakei Golf Course
with swimmers and sunbathers; you can
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taupo & ruapehu
must-dos
Swim, waterski or jetski in the Great Lake Indulge in a luxurious spa treatment at DeBretts Living Waters Spa 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 Take a brunch cruise on the Great Lake Go rafting or fish for trout in a wild river Soak in one of the region’s thermal pools
Taupo Tandem skydive
sail and kayak, waterski or parasail behind
place to soak in silica-rich, thermally heated
national park and was gifted to the nation in
a speedboat. A lake cruise to the famous
waters that are famous in Maori folklore for
1887 by Te Heuheu Tukino IV, paramount chief
Maori rock carvings at Mine Bay is a popular
their healing properties for skin ailments.
of Ngati Tuwharetoa. The park’s dual World
activity at any time of year, as is a visit to the
More geothermal wonders await at Orakei
Heritage status recognises these cultural links
Lake Taupo Museum and Art Gallery, where
Korako Cave & Thermal Park, where you
as well as its superb natural attributes.
you can learn about the region’s history and
can wander through a valley of unbelievable
A scenic flight provides an impressive outlook,
culture.
colours; a world of bubbling hot springs,
while at ground level the Volcanic Loop
The region’s volcanic past means there are
geysers and great natural beauty. Scenes
Highway around the lake and mountains
many geothermal attractions, including
from the BBC’s Walking with Dinosaurs were
is another great way to see the region. En
secluded natural spas and expansive hot
filmed at Orakei Korako.
route stop (or stay a night or two) at Turangi,
pool complexes right in town. A long-
Thundering Huka Falls, 3km north of Taupo,
a small town at the southern end of Lake
established geothermal resort is Taupo
can be viewed from above, but to really
Taupo. Turangi is just forty minutes from the
DeBretts Spa Resort, which draws hot
appreciate the power of the falls, take an
ski slopes so in winter and spring it buzzes
natural mineral waters from the Onekeneke
exciting jet boat trip to the base. A quieter
with the feel of an alpine village.
Stream. Its family pools offer lots of fun for
option is a launch cruise that covers the
It’s situated where the fast-flowing Tongariro
kids; there are private hot pools as well as
Waikato River from Aratiatia to Huka Falls.
River feeds into the lake, a river that is
the Living Waters Spa, a beautiful day spa
Not surprisingly, many of the region’s natural
almost legendary among trout fishers. There
providing heavenly treatments.
attractions are volcanic in origin. Even the
you’ll also find the National Trout Centre,
Minutes north of Taupo near Wairakei
main ski areas are on the active volcano Mt
which gives an interesting overview of trout
village you’ll find boiling mud pools, thermal
Ruapehu, which offers world-class skiing
fishing in New Zealand, and boasts a new
valleys and steaming geysers, plus brilliantly
and snowboarding facilities at Whakapapa
underwater viewing room that gives a trout’s
coloured silica terraces. The man-made
and Turoa Skifields. Mt Ruapehu is part of
eye view of the fish. As well as fishing, the
Wairakei Terraces are a window into history;
Tongariro National Park, which includes
Tongariro and other rivers in the area provide
there’s also a Maori village, an animal park,
two other volcanoes - Mt Tongariro and Mt
brilliant rafting opportunities, ranging from
aviary and the recently reinstated Te Kiri o
Ngauruhoe (Mount Doom in the film The
fun, family trips to exhilarating adventures
Hinekai (Honeymoon) Pool. It’s a fabulous
Lord of the Rings). It was New Zealand’s first
on remote, hidden gems. After all this
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The Hub, The Heart
He art Sto ppi ng
Bre ath tak ing
Auckland
GREAT LAKE TAUPÖ
Great Lake Taupo the Centre of it All Experience Great Lake Taupö -
the Central North Island’s ultimate playground. Phone 0800 LAKE TAUPO or 0800 2 TURANGI for information and bookings, or visit GreatLakeTaupo.com
Wellington
invigorating outdoor activity, soak your aching bones in the hot springs at nearby Tokaanu. Active people who want to experience a truly volcanic landscape can traverse Mt Tongariro on the spectacular 17-kilometre Tongariro Crossing, generally reckoned to be the best one-day hike in New Zealand. Alpine conditions change rapidly so check weather forecasts and make sure you’re well-prepared. In winter and spring you’ll need specialised equipment and hiring an experienced guide is highly recommended. Northwest of Taupo town, the laid-back village of Mangakino is centred on Lake Maraetai, one of a series of hydro-dams on the Waikato River. There are many picturesque walkways and cycle-ways in the area, including the fantastic Waikato River Trails. It’s also close to the wilderness of Pureora Forest Park, where you can view New Zealand’s largest totara tree and stand on the true centre of the North Island. You can also explore Lake Maraetai and its tributaries on the paddleboat Otunui, which has more than mt Ngauruhoe
100 years of history in New Zealand.
“NZ’s Best One Day Hike” Shuttles depart from National Park Village @ 7am & 8am Return 3.30pm & 4.30pm We also provide transport for the Northern Circuit and to Whakapapa Village.
National Park Village shuttle@plateaulodge.co.nz www.tongariroalpinecrossing.net.nz
See discount coupons for more deals
07 378 7500
ENJOY A SPECTACULAR SCENIC FLIGHT IN OUR HIGH WING CESSNA FLOATPLANE WITH VIEWS OF THE BEAUTIFUL GREAT LAKE TAUPO REGION Website: www.tauposfloatplane.co.nz Email: info@tauposfloatplane.co.nz
hoto FREE Exit P 5 with
valued at $2 Package* 15,000ft Silver Tandem Jump, *Silver Package includes T-Shirt. Freefall Video & Photos and
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T H E
G U I D E
T O
N E W
Z E A L A N D
Bountiful
harvest
HAWKE’S BAY
w w w. a r r i v a l . c o . n z
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
CRAGGY RANGE VINEYARD
A long-established Hawke’s Bay eco-
n 1931, a devastating earthquake
Farmers’ Market operates a Saturday Urban
claimed many lives and destroyed
Market in Napier and a Sunday Farmers’
experience is a trip to the Cape Kidnappers
untold buildings in Hawke’s Bay. Napier
Market at the A&P Showgrounds, Hastings.
gannet colony (season ends early May),
and Hastings were rebuilt in the Art Deco
You can work off the calories on over 40
where thousands of birds breed, nest and
and Spanish Mission styles and today the
kilometres of dedicated walking and cycle
raise their young on the rugged headland.
architecture is a feature of the region.
trails, most of which are flat. Trails meander
You can get there by tractor and trailer
along the seaside, through cities, down river
along the beach, or overland across a
superb food and wine – especially red
valleys, and through picturesque vineyards
working farm.
wine – and around seventy wineries dot the
and orchards.
Hawke’s Bay is also renowned for its
landscape, many of which have cellar doors
The walk and cycle-ways run along Napier’s
A few minutes drive around “the hill” from Napier’s CBD you’ll find Ahuriri,
where you can taste and buy wine. Some
Marine Parade, which boasts lovely sunken
a busy entertainment precinct offering
have picnic areas and several have top-class
gardens, a soundshell and several statues and
a string of great cafes and bars on the
restaurants housed in magnificent buildings
memorials, as well as the National Aquarium
waterfront. Several are housed in revamped
in stunning locations.
of New Zealand. The facility has a large
heritage buildings, and the suburb is also
oceanarium with an underwater viewing
home to Napier’s most photographed
five stops, with products ranging from olives
tunnel, and many smaller tanks that hold
Art Deco building, the National Tobacco
and oils, breads and preserved delicacies
aquatic creatures from around the world.
Company. The region has a good range
to honey, fresh-roasted coffee, gourmet
Time your visit to see divers feed the sharks
of accommodation, including vineyard
bacon, hand-made chocolate and famous
and stingrays, or if you’re a certified diver, get
cottages, hotels and apartments with an
Rush Munro’s ice cream. The Hawke’s Bay
in amongst them yourself.
Art Deco ambience.
The region’s food trail has around eighty-
Great reasons to visit: 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
w w w. a r r i v a l . c o . n z
Mountain
of many colours Mt Taranaki with Te Rewa Rewa bridge, New Plymouth Photo Dennis Richardson
GRACEFUL MT TARANAKI IS AT ITS MOST SPECTACULAR AT SUNSET, WHEN THE SUN’S DYING RAYS WRAP IT IN A MANTLE OF PINK AND GOLD.
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M
aori legend says that Mt Taranaki
environment. The region’s main urban area
fled west after a battle with Mt
is New Plymouth, which was judged New
Tongariro, in the central North
Zealand’s best city (North & South magazine)
Island. Today the majestic 2518m peak of
and the world’s best small city (LiveCom
Mt Taranaki sits at the heart of Taranaki,
awards). The city boasts many visitor
a relatively undiscovered region that
attractions, and hosts many major events
offers culture and urban sophistication,
from cultural festivals like WOMAD to huge
outdoor pursuits, and a beautiful natural
concerts and international sporting events.
Taranaki
must-dos
Watch a stunning sunset from a Taranaki beach Stay overnight in a cosy mountain lodge Cycle or walk along New Plymouth’s coastal walkway Groove to global beats at WOMAD, March 16 – 18 Learn to surf at a black sand beach
New Plymouth Coastal Walkway, PHOTO Rob Tucker
A good starting point is Puke Ariki, a
a short nature walk through the magical
modern, interactive museum that houses
‘Goblin Forest’ or the overnight Pouakai
the i-SITE Visitor Centre, the city library,
Circuit for the more intrepid adventurer.
a café, a restaurant and a museum shop.
Taranaki’s other dominant landscape
Puke Ariki’s permanent exhibitions trace
feature is the sea, which wraps around it on
the history and events that have formed
three sides. The northern coastline features
this proud, creative region, from the
wide river mouths, rugged cliff faces and
mythical and physical birth of Mount
towering rock formations. Meanwhile,
Taranaki, through land wars and pioneering
south of New Plymouth world-class surf
innovation.
breaks peel from spots along the 100km
Not to be missed is a walk along New Plymouth’s international award-winning
Surf Highway 45. The province is renowned for its gardens,
waterfront walkway, where the graceful
including native garden Te Kainga Marire,
Wind Wand designed by renowned kinetic
and the sub-alpine Pukeiti Gardens, known
artist Len Lye creates a focal point. Lye’s
worldwide for its showy rhododendrons.
collection is held at the city’s contemporary
A stroll through New Plymouth’s Pukekura
gallery, the Govett-Brewster. In Hawera,
Park will show why voters gave it the
Tawhiti Museum is often touted as the
coveted Mayfair position on the New
country’s best private museum.
Zealand version of Monopoly. The
Mt Taranaki is surrounded by Egmont
New Plymouth Coastal Walkway
52-hectare park combines with Brooklands
National Park, the most accessible of New
Park to provide a bushy oasis of lakes
Zealand’s national parks. It offers more
and streams, display houses, gardens and
than 300km of walking tracks, whether it’s
walking trails.
Surfer on Taranaki Beach, PHOTO Rob Tucker
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WELLINGTON w w w. a r r i v a l . c o . n z
WELLINGTON BOAT SHEDS
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)
forested inner-city valley.
interesting introduction, take a Ship ‘n Chip
in Molesworth Street. Free guided tours
tour offered by the Museum of Wellington
of Parliament Buildings run on the hour,
that excludes non-native animals and on a
City & Sea. It includes an informative tour of
starting 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
spotted kiwi, saddleback, hihi and giant weta.
gives an intriguing insight into Wellington’s
and many attractions will be within walking
The sanctuary’s evocative ZEALANDIA: The
history, while further along the waterfront
distance. The hotel is close to the lower
Exhibition uses cutting-edge technology to
Te Papa, the Museum of New Zealand, is
cable-car terminal, and a ride in this iconic
trace New Zealand’s environmental history
a magnificent showcase of art, artefacts
vehicle to the Botanic Gardens gives
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At One With Nature State Highway One to the capital passes through Horowhenua/Kapiti, a region bounded by the Tararua Range in the east, and long, sandy beaches in the west. The hulking form of Kapiti Island looms just off Paraparaumu, which is the starting
WRITERS WALK WELLINGTON
point for island visits. The island is theatres, visit one of the myriad galleries,
Another car-free option is to hop on and
and sip a hot, strong coffee somewhere
off the CitySights bus, which does a sixty
like Mojo, Caffé Italiano, Vivace or Peoples
minute loop around twelve great attractions.
Coffee. The city has iconic cinemas like the
warrior chief Te Rauparaha, then a
the Cable Car Museum, drop into Carter
Lord of the Rings fan, head to the mini-
Observatory to learn about the southern
museum at the Weta Cave in Miramar.
endangered bird species have been successfully reintroduced.
There are great beaches for
On the mainland significant wildlife
beachcombing and strolling, or swimming
collection related to astronomical history,
and surfing. Oriental Bay is a city favourite,
M ULGRAVE
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option. Try Beach Getaway at
FRANK KITTS PARK
Wellington Central
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Paraparaumu, a two-bedroom, selfcontained apartment nestled in a leafy Clyde Quay Wharf
garden near the beach. See www.
Taranaki St Wharf
The Civic Centre Town Hall Michael Fowler LD Centre
naturecoast.co.nz
Chaffers Marina
Overseas Passenger Terminal
BAR D
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ice-cream, handmade chocolate and
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Hoyts 5 Cinemas
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speciality cheeses, creamy local
Queens Wharf
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110
ST
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harf
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Kings W
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Athena Montessori College Ang
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Progressive Synagogue
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vegetables direct from growers,
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in many different media. Visitors
East by West Ferry Terminal
City S T Gallery Capital E
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Hoyts Mid City Cinemas
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can pick up garden-fresh fruit and
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or a working windmill. It’s also a y
F e rry to P i c to n
Events Centre
QUAY
Council office
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vintage car museum, a doll museum
Customhouse Quay
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Old Bank Arcade
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The region is full of quirky private museums, whether it’s a renowned
Wharf
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Antrium House
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challenging multi-day tramps.
JERVOIS
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Art Works of NZ Gallery
NZ Academy of Fine Arts
Museum of Wellington City & Sea
HUN TER
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Boyd Wilson Field
Y
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AD
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GRE
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STREET
Victoria University
CO
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Van Helden Gallery
A
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Ferry Terminal
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areas offer cycling trails as well as
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Adam Art Gallery
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boating. Both the coast and inland
harf
TC E BO
KELBURN PARK
BR
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and W
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Kelburn
Victoria University
WelTec
R
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Wellin
Car
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Clifton Station
IT Y
T AY
PARK JO HN S
PAN
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Talavera Station
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Brooker Gallery
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walks that range from easy strolls to
Waterloo Wha
Kiwibank ATM
Salamanca Station
ble Car useum
G
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DAL
Clifton Terrace Model School
Bureau de change NZ Met Service
SHELL
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Victoria University LA DS TO NE
Lambton Square
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swimming, surfing, canoeing and
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Thorndon Container Terminal
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and wetland trails, the rivers, beaches and estuarine areas provide fishing,
2
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BOTANICAL 2 Tranz Scenic Travel Centre
UT
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District & Family Courts
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Wellington Intercity Terminal
Wellington Railway Station
Government Buildings Historic Reserve & Victoria University Law Faculty
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Begonia House
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LAMBTON SQUARE
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Turnbull House
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Lady Norwood Rose Gardens
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High Court Buses only
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Reserve Bank
Wellington City Map ANDERSON PARK
16
BU
BOLTON ST MEMORIAL PARK
WELLINGTON
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Millwood Gallery
island ferriesof Court passing by. Appeal
water birds. Besides birdwatching
Pipitea
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National Archives
minal
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wetland habitat for thousands of
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National Library
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Estuary, which provides a coastal
TH
WINGFIEL D Bay.Alexander To the south at rugged Capital Red Rocks you Turnbull,
STREET Parliamentary Library
St Pauls
E
PA
HILL
CL E S T O N H IL L
Premier how early Maori, Polynesian and European House
E VI
refuges include the Manawatu River
while across the harbour there’s pretty Days Heart Primary School RC
M
and excellent multimedia exhibits show settlers navigated to our shores.
cleared for farming but these days it’s a predator-free sanctuary where many
The show is complemented by an interesting
MEMORIAL PARK
shore station for whalers. Later it was
Embassy and Paramount, and if you’re a
skies through its new planetarium show.
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it was once the stronghold of famous
YA
After browsing the gardens and visiting
1
steeped in Maori and pioneer history –
wonderful views of the city and harbour.
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Look for 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 a movie.Or of course, you could just take in the breathtaking view.
MARLBOROUGH w w w. a r r i v a l . c o . n z
Marlborough vineyard
perfection
Baked to
S
IN SUMMER, MARLBOROUGH’S RECORD SUNSHINE HOURS BAKE THE LAND TO A RICH GOLDEN BROWN – PERFECT RIPENING CONDITIONS FOR THE REGION’S WORLD-FAMOUS SAUVIGNON BLANC GRAPES.
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 freshly caught snapper.
some of the finest wines in the world. As well
There are many places crafting superb
as the flagship sauvignon blanc variety, the
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.
But Marlborough is more than just fabulous
producers. Several local wine trail operators
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
From the heart of Marlborough comes a truly exceptional wine A stunning selection of wines to taste and buy, or come and enjoy a cheese platter - picnic rugs provided!
OPEN from September until May 7 days 10am - 4.30pm 12 Rapaura Road Tel: 03 572 6008 www.nautilusestate.com
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nelson
must-dos
NELSON TASMAN w w w. a r r i v a l . c o . n z
Enjoy a leisurely lunch among the grapevines 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 ABEL TASMAN AQUA TAXI
Simply
stunning
MAKE THE MOST OF SUNNY Summer DAYS AND EXPLORE NELSON’S STUNNING LAKES, BEACHES,
N
Walk the golden sands of Farewell Spit
elson/Tasman boasts three diverse
to Farewell Spit, the northernmost tip of the
national parks that can be explored
South Island. The sandy 35km spit – Onetahua
in a variety of ways. Beyond Motueka
or “heaped up sand” to Maori – is a protected
is Kahurangi, the country’s second-largest
bird sanctuary that harbours a variety of
INTO A SCENIC DROP ZONE, KAYAK IN
national park and home to the Heaphy Track,
resident and migratory seabirds. Guided safaris
A PEACEFUL BAY, OR TAKE A WATER
a five-day walk to Karamea on the West Coast.
also take in the historic lighthouse.
TAXI TO AN ISOLATED COVE.
Abel Tasman National Park is renowned for
MOUNTAINS AND FORESTS. SKYDIVE
With over 350 artists and artisans in the
beautiful beaches and crystal-clear waters, and
region, it’s no wonder that Nelson is often
offers a stunning escape for trampers and sea
referred to as the arts capital of the country.
kayakers. Inland, the Nelson Lakes National Park
Many ply their craft from homes, galleries and
is a paradise of bird-filled beech forest, jagged
colourful markets in attractive Nelson city,
mountains, clear streams and tranquil lakes.
but others are found throughout the wider
Plenty of operators are keen to get you
region. Studios, galleries and workshops can
out and into it, and if you want to see it
be visited, but a Nelson art experience doesn’t
from above Skydive Abel Tasman will happily
have to be passive. Fun, interactive classes are
oblige. After a twenty-minute scenic flight
available on anything from bone carving to
over stunning scenery you leap (attached to
bead making, and painting to pottery.
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 northwest, is a scenic jewel with a laid-back Nelson COAST
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lifestyle. From here you can take guided safaris
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
Kayaking, abel tasman
DOWNTOWN NELSON
Nelson is home to the inspirational WOW
the region produces hops, olives and many
– the World of Wearable Art and Classic Cars
kinds of fruit. There’s a well-mapped trail of
Museum – which is just two minutes from
28 wineries, and locally grown hops supply
the airport. The mind-blowing collection in
boutique breweries. Seafood is a regional
the National Park, year-round, with
the WearableArt™ Gallery is a tribute to the
speciality and the many rivers that lace the
additional early and late departure times.
creativity and ingenuity of artists working
area provide freshwater fishing. Great cafes,
Aqua Taxi has two departure bases:
with a range of materials. Meanwhile the
bars and restaurants abound.
Marahau and Kaiteriteri. The drivers will
Festivals are a recurring theme in this region,
classic car gallery showcases an eclectic mix of some of the most sought-after makes and
with celebrations for everything from jazz to
models ever produced.
kite flying, seafood, busking and music. But if
Nelson’s Mediterranean climate and fertile soils mean superb growing conditions, and
you can’t visit during a festival, don’t worry –
Abel Tasman Aqua Taxi 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
Great reasons to visit:
Nelson
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WEST COAST w w w. a r r i v a l . c o . n z
WEST COAST SHORE
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
on the respective glaciers, and whether you
Coast has more than sixty glaciers in
choose a half or full-day walk, a heli-hike,
the Westland/Tai Poutini National Park
or ice-climbing you’ll be well looked after
alone; among them are the twin jewels of
by friendly, professional guides. After an
the Fox and Franz Josef Glaciers, two of the
exhilarating day on the ice, soothe your
most accessible glaciers in the world.
aching muscles in the Glacier Hot Pools at
To fully appreciate the grandeur and
three invitingly warm main pools, or bush-
best to take a guided trip with experienced
fringed private pools.
local operators. Fox Glacier Guides and Franz FOX GLACIER GUIDING
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Franz Josef, where you can choose from
geology of these remarkable ice-flows, it’s
Josef Glacier Guides offer several options
The region’s five diverse national parks – Kahurangi, Paparoa, Arthur’s Pass,
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
FOX GLACIER GUIDING, Helihike
$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
$5 off $10off
half day hike full day hike
FREEPHONE 0800 GUIDES LOCATED ON THE MAIN ST OF FRANZ JOSEF TOWNSHIP. CC: Arrival
arrival New Zealand
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Westland and Mt Aspiring – make it a
pounamu (greenstone). In the 1860s gold
paradise for nature lovers. Scenic flights,
fever drew Europeans to the West Coast,
climbing, caving, quad-biking, rafting,
many of whom stayed when the gold
canoeing, kayaking and jetboating are all on
ran out and established farms, forestry
offer, as are mountain-biking, fishing and
and commerce. Near Greymouth you can
gold panning. Countless walks and hikes
experience this history at Shantytown, a
range from gentle rambles to challenging
cultural and heritage attraction inspired
adventures: try the Heaphy Track (but book
by the gold rushes. Around thirty historic
well in advance), or take an easy stroll to
buildings recreate a 19th-century pioneer
serene Lake Matheson near Fox Glacier,
town, and the attraction offers interactive
where New Zealand’s highest peak, Aoraki/
experiences such as gold-panning, steam
Mt Cook, and Mt Tasman are reflected in
train rides and a bush sawmill experience. The descendants of those early pioneers
the glassy waters.
– today’s “Coasters” – are independent,
The scenic, pristine wetland and lagoon at coastal Okarito is a birdwatcher’s paradise.
hospitable people, and warmly welcome
As well as being home to more than 45
visitors to this special part of the country.
wetland species, it’s the breeding ground
Museums and galleries, craft shops, cafés
of the graceful kotuku, the white heron.
and good restaurants are found throughout
Another coastal must-see is Punakaiki,
the region, and accommodation options
with its spectacular blowholes and soaring
include luxury lodges, hotels and motels,
limestone stacks called the Pancake Rocks.
camping, cottages and backpackers. A
Interesting historic sites and attractions
scenically brilliant way to get to the Coast is
trace the region’s settlement, which began
via the TranzAlpine train from Christchurch
when Maori came in search of sacred
to Greymouth.
Great reasons to visit:
West Coast Clip this ad to receive discount
H E R I TAG E PA R K WEST COAST NEW ZEALAND
5
$
Take a steam train ride, pan for gold
30
and watch the holographic theatre show. shops & buildings to explore.
DISCOUNT ON Rutherglen Road Paroa. OLD TIME PHOTO Ph: 03 7626 634 Freephone 0800 742 689 www.shantytown.co.nz
SHANTYTOWN EXPRESS BUS Return transport & entry. Two times per day. Book online or at the West Coast Travel Centre
Franz JoseF & Fox Glaciers
call free
0800 807 767 Main South Road, SH6, Franz Josef.
*Valid on direct bookings only, Offer not valid in conjunction with other offers.
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10% OFF
scenic helicopter flights
Nature’s
playground
Kaikoura w w w. a r r i v a l . c o . n z
GIANT SPERM WHALES ARE YEARROUND RESIDENTS IN THE DEEP TRENCHES OFF THE KAIKOURA COAST. SEABIRDS, OTHER WHALE SPECIES, DOLPHINS AND SEALS OFTEN ENCHANT WITH THEIR ENTERTAINING ANTICS.
O
WHALE DIVING, KAIKOURA
verlooked by a range of snow-capped mountains, the Kaikoura region in
runs along the coast quite close to shore.
North Canterbury first attracted Maori,
These giants of the sea can be seen from a
four-wheel drive adventures, walking and
who came to harvest its abundant seafood
Whale Watch boat or small plane as they rise
horse trekking. There’s also a picturesque
(kai = food, koura = crayfish). European
to replenish their air supply then return to
golf course just south of the town. There are
whalers and sealers followed, and Kaikoura
the depths in an awesome display of grace.
many places to sample Kaikoura’s famous
town is built on the site of a whaling station that was established in 1843.
Dusky dolphins, rare Hector’s dolphins and
Other Kaikoura activities include fishing,
seafood – try the crayfish (lobster), scallops,
fur seals also entertain visitors at sea, and
mussels, blue cod or butterfish. If you like
Ironically, the sperm whale, once hunted
seals can be seen on rocks south of town
wine, visit the Kaikoura Winery which boasts
for its oil, has helped Kaikoura prosper in the
and out on the peninsula. Seabirds too –
limestone cellars and spectacular views.
21st century. The whales feed on rich marine
including the rare wandering albatross – are
life in the deep Kaikoura Canyon, which
attracted by the area’s abundance of fish.
Accommodation ranges from coastal campsites to a unique lodge with luxurious tree houses.
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canterbury
must-dos
canterbury w w w. a r r i v a l . c o . n z
Laugh till your stomach hurts at the World Buskers’ Festival, January 19 – 29. 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 Savour the North Canterbury Food and Wine Trail AKAROA WATERFRONT
A city on
the rise
C
EXCITING NEW INITIATIVES ARE BRINGING THE SOUL BACK INTO CENTRAL CHRISTCHURCH, MEANING NEW ZEALAND’S LOVELY GARDEN CITY IS DEFINITELY BACK ON THE TOURIST MAP
hristchurch’s CBD was extensively
an attractive gathering place for visitors
hills. The waters are home to a variety of sea
damaged in the earthquake of
and locals. It sits alongside Christchurch’s
life, and wildlife cruises offer the chance to
February 22, 2011 and while parts
elegant, iconic department store
see fur seals, penguins and other birdlife –
of it remain cordoned off, new initiatives
Ballantynes, which has re-opened its doors
and if you’re lucky, rare Hector’s dolphins.
are breathing energy into the inner city. The
after an extensive refurbishment.
The quaint village has a French ambience,
attractive green expanses of Hagley Park are
Many of Christchurch tourism operators
and the audio tour (available from the
home to the Hagley Park Events Village, a
and visitor attractions were up and running
information centre) around its charming
collection of temporary indoor and outdoor
soon after the earthquake. These include
historic buildings will reveal the reasons why.
venues that allow the city to continue with
Punting on the Avon, Up Up & Away
its busy events schedule.
Ballooning, the International Antarctic
text) offers another assortment of pleasures,
The Alpine Pacific Triangle (see boxed
Centre (check out the brilliant new 4D
while the breathtaking scenery of the
Buskers Festival, which features some of
experience), Willowbank Wildlife Reserve,
fabled Mackenzie District – just 2.5 hours
the world’s best street performers, all of
Orana Park Wildlife & Shuttle, Tanks For
southwest of Christchurch – will stop you in
whom have one goal in mind - to get
Everything and many more. For a full list see
your tracks. This is a land of lofty tussock-
Christchurch laughing. With over 500
www.christchurchnz.co.nz. Accommodation
covered high country, snowy mountains,
performances featuring acts from twelve
in the city is in high demand so book
glacial lakes, orderly canals and meandering
different countries, there’ll be something
in advance, and advise providers of any
mountain streams. It’s the home of New
for everyone – whether it’s family-friendly
change in plans.
Zealand’s highest mountain, Aoraki Mount
Top of the list over summer is the World
acrobat and magic shows, or downright
Meanwhile, in Canterbury’s regional hubs,
Cook (3754m), where you can experience
saucy burlesque revues which are strictly
business has continued as usual and visitors
anything from a short walk to a multi-day
for adults. Find out more at www.
can enjoy everything from sumptuous wine
hike, boating on a glacier lake or even a
worldbuskersfestival.com.
and food to hot pools and alpine experiences;
scenic flight with a snow landing.
A funky temporary “pop-up mall” made of brightly coloured shipping containers recently opened in Cashel Street, creating a unique shopping experience and providing
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from horse trekking and rafting, to whale watching and swimming with dolphins. Akaroa, on Banks Peninsula, is set on a sparkling harbour surrounded by rugged
Aoraki Mount Cook is where the late Sir Edmund Hillary (a much-loved, iconic New Zealander, that’s him on the $5 note) practised before he became the first to
POP-UP MALL
Alpine Pacific Triangle conquer Mt Everest. Be sure to visit the Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre at Mount Cook Village, which features a 3D movie, Planetarium and Museum as well as the Hillary Gallery, which traces Sir Ed’s ties to the region, and celebrates a lifetime of physical and humanitarian achievements. The Mackenzie District is also renowned for its clear, star-filled night skies – in fact, it’s hoped that the region will soon be designated a UNESCO World Heritage
POP-UP MALL
Starlight Reserve. A tour to Mt John Observatory will leave you starry-eyed, and this research observatory is also an interesting place to visit in the daytime. An alternative route south from Christchurch is the inland scenic highway, which passes through the pretty rural town of Geraldine. An ideal detour en route is Peel Forest, a stunning, bird-filled remnant of the magnificent podocarp forest that once covered much of the region. This peaceful area sits at the base of the Southern Alps, and offers walks of varying difficulty, kayaking and rafting on the spectacular Rangitata River (also a renowned trout and salmon fishery), and horse trekking through rivers, forests and high country. There are mountain biking and 4WD options, and it’s also the gateway to the famous backcountry farms Mt Peel Station, with its historic Church of Holy Innocents, and Mesopotamia Station at the head of the Rangitata Gorge.
CHRISTCHURCH WORLD BUSKERS FESTIVAL
This scenic touring route forms a triangle between the Waipara Valley wine region, the spa town of Hanmer Springs and the whale-watching hotspot of Kaikoura – with plenty of scenic panoramas along the way. Kaikoura sits half way between Picton and Christchurch, overlooked by towering mountains. Here you can go whale watching by boat or small plane, or encounter playful dusky dolphins and colonies of fur seals (see Kaikoura story). From Kaikoura, drive inland on State Highway 70 and follow the signs to Hanmer Springs. The main drawcard for decades has been Hanmer’s thermal pools complex, today a regular winner of tourism awards. Soak in hot water or relax in the newly revamped spa while the kids play on the waterslides. Other activities include forest walks, horse-trekking, mountain biking, jetboating, golf, fishing and skiing at nearby Mt Lyford. The town has plenty of good accommodation and eateries. At the bottom of the triangle, 45 minutes north of Christchurch, is the Waipara Valley, an up-and-coming wine region producing some fine wine, especially Pinot Noir, Riesling, chardonnay and sauvignon blanc. Several wineries have restaurants offering local cuisine and some have vineyard accommodation. A vintage train runs between Waipara and Waikiri through scenic Weka Pass on the first and third Sundays of each month, and most public holidays.
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Wanaka
w w w. a r r i v a l . c o . n z
Warm welcome
inWanaka
LAKE WANAKA, PHOTO HECKTOR GRACIA
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 .
W
anaka is the gateway to Mount
restaurants, cafés and shops as well as a
visitors of all ages, as will its crazy leaning
Aspiring National Park, which
thriving arts and crafts community. It’s within
tower and tilted house. Even the toilets will
is part of the sacred peaks and
easy reach of the world-class Central Otago
get you thinking! Other Wanaka attractions are the New
valleys that make up Te Wahipounamu World
vineyards, so hopping on the wine trail is easy
Heritage Area. The area is especially loved by
— just 55km away in Cromwell there’s Quartz
Zealand Fighter Pilots’ Museum, which
hikers, day walkers and climbers, who revel in
Reef, Nevis Bluff, Carrick and Bald Hills, to
features aircraft, stories and exhibits related
this pristine alpine wilderness.
name a few. However, locals recommend
to fighter pilots and the World Wars.
grabbing a picnic or some nibbles and
Meanwhile the National Transport and Toy
biking, sky-diving, jetboating, paragliding,
walking to Rippon Vineyard to taste wines
Museum is an incredible private collection
lake cruising and kayaking. Fly-fishers can’t
in what must surely be one of the world’s
boasting over 600 vehicles (including 30 fire
resist the lakes and rivers, and the chances of
most picturesque vineyards. Beer lovers can
engines!), twelve aircraft, 30,000 toys and
landing a plump rainbow trout are high. In
visit and tour Beerworks, a boutique brewery
thousands of miscellaneous items. In keeping
the warmer months, Lake Wanaka is popular
producing handcrafted, chemical-free brews.
with the offbeat theme, Paradiso Cinema is a
Outdoor activities include mountain
for wakeboarding, waterskiing and sailing.
A unique Wanaka attraction is the
great spot for a flick with seating consisting of old couches and a car.
Another way to appreciate the region’s beauty
bewildering but fascinating Puzzling World,
is on Deep Canyon’s canyoning trips through
which has been voted in the world’s top ten
the spectacular crystal cascades, pools, and
“weird attractions”. Its puzzling eccentricities
just an hour’s drive from Queenstown, Lake
native forest of the Matukituki valley.
of holograms, optical illusions, and a labyrinth
Wanaka is easy to get to by air or road.
Wanaka has an excellent selection of
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with 1.5 kilometres of passages will intrigue
With daily flights from Christchurch and
WANAKA
must-dos
Slide down wet, polished rocks on a canyoning adventure Exercise your brain at Puzzling World Take a scenic flight, or skydive if you dare
DEEP CANYON
PICK ‘N MIX
WANAKA IS A GREAT PLACE TO GET THE ADRENALIN PUMPING, AND LOCAL EXPERTS SUGGEST YOU DESIGN AN ACTION-PACKED DAY FROM THE FOLLOWING ACTIVITIES.
Morning: • Jet boat down the Makarora,
Try the tasty sausages at the Mediterranean Market Cook up a storm on the free lakefront BBQs
• Eat at the Cardrona Hotel after having fun at the Adventure Park
Matukituki or Clutha Rivers • Mountain bike up in Sticky Forest or around the lake
Afternoon:
• Skydive or paraglide over our stunning scenery • Walk to Rob Roy Glacier in Mt Aspiring National Park • Have some fun at Cardrona Adventure Park • Grab some mates and have a go at Paintball
• • • •
ppreciate the Matukituki Valley with Deep Canyon A White-water Sledging down the Kawarau River Kayak down the Clutha River Take an acrobatic plane ride
• Heli-bike down New Zealand’s highest track
Evening: • Twilight in the Tussocks tour • C inema Paradiso for a movie (and the
Lunch: • Try lunch at Lonestar while having a go at
homemade cookies and ice-cream at intermission!)
the Clip ‘n Climb
RIPPON VINEYARD
Great reasons to visit:
Wanaka nderful Wanaka’s weoirdness world of w, rooms of illusion gs Bizarre buildin s maze will baffle your and our famoulenge your perceptions brain and chal of reality.
RLD PUZZLING WO Wanaka 9382 gate Hwy 84, z 188 Wanaka Lug lingworld.co.n 9 E: info@puzz P: 03 443 748
gworld.co.nz
www.puzzlin
%offn 1co0 mbo admissio
\
her
with this vouc
ons. lt Combo admissi tion. Valid for 2 x Adu any other promo Not valid with
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91
queenstown w w w. a r r i v a l . c o . n z
summer
Blazing into
QUEENSTOWN
IT’S SUMMERTIME, AND AS WELL AS THE TEMPERATURE, ADRENALIN LEVELS ARE RISING IN NEW ZEALAND’S
T
ucked under The Remarkables mountain
Milford Sound, the Shotover Jet rockets through
range at the edge of pristine Lake
river canyons on a breathtaking thrill ride.
Wakatipu, Queenstown’s natural beauty
The rushing waters are ideal for high-
ADVENTURE CAPITAL. THOSE WHO
attracts visitors all year round. The town
energy rafting, and companies like
PREFER A MORE SEDATE PACE WILL
continues to claim the “adventure capital”
Queenstown Rafting offer rafting experiences
ALSO FIND PLENTY OF OPTIONS.
tag with around 150 exciting activities
in the Shotover River, the Kawarau River and
operating year round, and other amenities,
the Landsborough River, as well as a variety of
attractions and activities include fishing, golf,
“action combos”.
fantastic wine and food, shopping, nightlife, and world-class accommodation. With both extreme and leisurely pursuits
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You can also take a scenic flight to Glenorchy and get a bird’s-eye view of the Alps, or for a real aerial thrill, try a
available, there’s something for everyone. For
tandem skydive with NZONE. This award-
example, several boat companies ply beautiful
winning company has just celebrated its 21st
queenstown
must-dos
Hold on tight during a thrilling jetboat ride Soak in a spa pool surrounded by alpine splendour Watch the sunset from a lakeside bar Catch a movie at Arrowtown’s hip cinema Cruise, sail or speed up Lake Wakatipu
QUEENSTOWN RAFTING
Encounter and discover our Milford Sound
www.southerndiscoveries.co.nz 30 Shotover St, Queenstown. Lakefront Drive, Te Anau.
arrival New Zealand
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93
Milford Sound Nature 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 a luxury coach. Whatever your choice, you’ll be moved by the powerful, pristine landscape of snow-capped peaks, crystal-clear lakes, spectacular waterfalls and ancient lush rainforest. From the air you’ll see impressive glaciers and hanging valleys, while by road there’s a dramatic vista of mirror lakes, rustling beech forest, the Homer Tunnel, and debris from past avalanches. Once there, cruise up the fiord of Milford Sound to the Tasman Sea, stopping to view cascading waterfalls, towering cliffs, rugged peaks, verdant rainforest, and seal and penguin colonies. Should gentle dolphins be at play, there’s always time to observe their exuberance. Several operators are ready to share their passion for, and knowledge of, this remote, special part of the world. Make your visit a memorable one with Kiwi Discovery, Mitre Peak Cruises, Real Journeys and Southern Discoveries. The latter have recently introduced a one-hour kayak tour, allowing visitors to paddle across the clear, glassy waters of the Sound and get close to wildlife such as Fiordland Crested Penguins.
birthday and will continue to provide thrills in one of the world’s most amazing drop zones. Their new plane can carry up to six tandem jumpers so groups can stay together during their once-in-a-lifetime experience. To sustain all that activity, you’ll need a good bed and great food, and whatever 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 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
MILLBROOK
MILFORD SOUND COACH OR CRUISE*
SAVE $10
• Two uniquely New Zealand • experiences exploring the ‘World Heritage’ wilderness of the Mt Aspiring National Park
• The Wilderness Safari - a half day • trip combining an exhilarating jet boat journey with an informative guided walk through ancient native forest and a back-country 4WD safari trip
• The Funyak Safari - a full day trip • offering the speed of a wilderness jet boat ride up the Dart River then paddle back downstream in our Funyak canoes exploring hidden side-streams, full wilderness buffet lunch included.
• Complimentary return shuttles • operate ex Queenstown or selfdrive to Glenorchy
Queenstown Info Centre: Cnr Camp & Shotover Sts , Queenstown Dart Visitor Centre: Mull St, Glenorchy Free phone: 0800 327 853 Email: reservations@dartriverjetsafaris.co.nz Web: www.dartriverjetsafaris.com
Present this advert to Mitre Peak Cruises when making a booking on any of our cruise or coach excursions and receive a $10.00 discount.* *Cannot be used in conjunction with any other special offer or discount.
BOOKINGS FREEPHONE 0800 744 633
TM
World famous as the ultimate jet boat experience, shotover Jet has thrilled over 3 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
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
Pedal Power QUEENSTOWN IS ONE OF THE COUNTRY’S HOTTEST CYCLING DESTINATIONS, AND WHETHER YOU’RE A BEGINNER OR AN EXTREME BIKER, THERE ARE TRAILS TO SPIN EVERYONE’S WHEELS. A popular pastime is exploring some of Central Otago’s vineyards by bike. Take a leisurely pedal down scenic back roads and join the new 8.5km River Trail through the spectacular Gibbston Valley, stopping off at award-winning wineries along the way. Another leisurely option is the new Manse Road trail, an easy way to explore picturesque Arrowtown and its historic Chinese Village. Specially developed for families, Jardine Park connects to stunning lakeside trails around Kelvin Heights Peninsula and meanders out to Jacks Point. New Zealand’s first gondola-assisted “bike lift” utilises the iconic Skyline Gondola, taking riders and their bikes high above Queenstown to a new bike park where 30km of tracks offer panoramic lake and mountain views. Meanwhile, back road cycling at Walter Peak begins with a cruise across Lake Wakatipu aboard the historic TSS Earnslaw steamer. Riders then cycle all of, or part of, the spectacular 55km trail from Walter Peak high country farm to Mavora Lakes. With more than 400km of trails across five mountain ranges, Queenstown offers amazing heli-bike options where riders can experience breathtaking descents and epic scenery on a trip tailored to their ability. Experienced bike operators and rental providers offer hire packages and guided tour options, whether it’s for an hour or a multi-day Earnslaw cycle trail image courtesy of Real Journeys and Around The Mountain Cycle Tours
trip. There are also regular bike-related events – check with the i-SITE for dates and details.
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 has good shopping too, with quality stores 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 small casinos, The Wharf, on Steamer Wharf, and Sky City Casino on Beach Road. Roulette, blackjack and baccarat tables operate alongside the ubiquitous gaming machines. As well as the driving range and 9-hole short course at Frankton, golfers will find several top-notch 18-hole courses, all dominated by the region’s magnificent scenery. If you’re tired, stressed, jet-lagged, actioned out, or just in need of pampering, soak in a spa pool, or head to one of Queenstown’s day spas for a range of beauty and therapeutic treatments.
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Wine Tasting Gibbston Valley Cave
Great reasons to visit
QUEENSTOWN
EMBRACE THE FEAR
Tandem Skydive from 15,000ft Free $15 Gift with your Tandem Skydive OPERATING SINCE 1990
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WHITEWATER RAFTING
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OFF! For more information Freephone: 0800 832 226
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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
TUNNEL BEACH DUNEDIN
Summer in the south DUNEDIN’S ATTRACTIVE LOCATION IS COMPLEMENTED BY ITS ELEGANT ARCHITECTURE, RICH SCOTTISH HERITAGE AND CULTURAL SOPHISTICATION. EASY ACCESS TO A WEALTH OF SUB-ANTARCTIC WILDLIFE IS ANOTHER BONUS
dunedin
must-dos
■
and Chinese who worked the goldfields and made Dunedin rich.
Take a double-decker bus ride around the city’s heritage sites
1848 by Scottish Presbyterian immigrants, and retains a distinct Gaelic charm. It
Garden is fabulous in spring and summer,
Step back in time at Larnach Castle
boasts many fine Victorian and Edwardian
and the gardens are a serene place to visit at
buildings, and a bronze statue of poet Robbie
any time of year. You can also tour Speight’s
Burns stands at the heart of the city in The
brewery, and the Cadbury chocolate factory,
Octagon. These days he looks down on forty
where as well as learning about chocolate-
Take one of Otago Museum’s fascinating guided walks
or more lively cafés, bars and bistros.
making you can sample the goodies.
Explore the leafy dells in the Botanic Gardens
Dunedin Public Art Gallery is among the best
of the Otago Peninsula, Dunedin is the
in the country and the world-class collections
gateway to a land and seascape that hosts
Watch amazing scenery roll by as you relax on the historic Taieri Gorge Railway
at the Otago Museum attract more than
a wealth of sub-Antarctic wildlife, including
300,000 visitors annually. Meanwhile, the
rare yellow-eyed penguins and sea lions. The
Otago Settlers Museum celebrates early
stars of the show however, are the majestic
British settlers and others, including the Maori
royal albatrosses, which arrive at Taiaroa Head
Get your taste buds tingling at Cadbury World
98
Dunedin (population 120,000), the South Island’s second largest city, was founded in
arrival New Zealand
Dunedin is also a culturally rich city. The
The rhododendron dell at Dunedin Botanic
Situated at the bottom of the long finger
in September to begin their breeding cycle.
Edwardian family. It can be visited as part of
It’s the world’s only mainland breeding
the heritage double-decker bus tour around
colony, and during summer, the Royal Albatross Centre is a busy place as adult
the city. A popular Dunedin experience is the
birds incubate eggs or glide in with food for
Taieri Gorge Scenic Rail Experience, which
chicks, while other adults guard the nests.
departs every afternoon on a 78km journey
Alternatively, take a wildlife cruise and watch
that takes in the Taieri Plains and the deep
the birds from below as they soar overhead
Taieri River Gorge, where it rumbles across
- chances are you’ll also encounter some
wrought iron viaducts and through tunnels
of the region’s other wild creatures. On the
carved by hand more than 100 years ago. It’s
way to the royal albatross colony, you’ll pass
a scenic way to get to the start of the Otago
Portobello and its Marine Studies Centre
Central Rail Trail, a popular 150km cycle/
(visitors welcome) and New Zealand’s only
walk trail through heartland Otago. Citibus
authentic castle, Larnach Castle, with its fine
operates a Track & Trail tour that combines
gardens and stunning views. The castle has
the rail trip with a coach link to Queenstown.
an exciting, sometimes scandalous, history,
North of Dunedin lie the strange Moeraki
and boasts some magnificent architecture.
Boulders, huge round rocks scattered
It’s home to the Barker family, who’ve spent
randomly along Koekohe Beach. Dunedin
more than 40 years restoring it and its
is also the start (or finish) of the Southern
grounds. Another historic gem is Olveston
Scenic Route, which takes in some of the
House, an elegant mansion preserved to
deep south’s least visited regions.
Monarch, through heads of Otago Harbour
give a glimpse into the lives of a privileged
Great reasons to visit: Albatross, Seals, Penguins and up to 20 species of marine life. Experience Taiaroa Head, Otago Harbour and the Peninsula at its best. One hour cruises, half and full day tours. Ph: +64 3 477 4276 0800 MONARC (666 272) www.wildlife.co.nz
Dunedin Discover
Present this voucher for your FREE Albatross Pin Direct bookings only. Conditions apply
• • • •
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 ~
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
twilight zone
In the
TORS and Tarn, Humpridge track
IN SUMMER, DAYLIGHT SEEMS TO
Walks criss-cross the city, from gentle
LAST FOREVER IN THE DEEP SOUTH.
inner-city heritage strolls to more strenuous
THAT MEANS MORE TIME TO EXPLORE
coastal routes. The wider region is home
THE REGION’S STUNNING WILD PLACES
to some of the country’s most celebrated
AND MEET THE FRIENDLY LOCALS
Great Walks, including the Tuatapere Humpridge Track. The three-day walk covers
I
coastal, bush and sub-alpine landscapes, nvercargill Southland’s main hub,
and includes the Waitutu Forest and the
and the rich history of New Zealand’s
Percy Burn Viaduct, said to be the largest
southernmost city has a shaped a
remaining wooden viaduct in the world.
distinctive culture and spirit. Its natural
Invercargill is the gateway to some of
and cultural heritage can be explored in
New Zealand’s most beautiful destinations,
the Southland Museum and Art Gallery,
and within a day’s drive you’ll find
itself housed in a distinctive pyramid. The
everything from towering rainforests
facility is the world’s leading captive centre
and alpine tussock to rolling farmland
for tuatara, giving visitors an excellent
and golden beaches. In Southland’s
opportunity to view these ancient reptiles.
southeastern corner The Catlins are a
The museum and gallery is on the edge of Queen’s Park, a beautiful inner-city
and ancient native forests fringed by clay
oasis that boasts gardens, native flora and
cliffs and wild, beautiful beaches. Bird and
fauna, and even a golf course. Invercargill’s
marine life includes yellow-eyed penguins
modern, attractive CBD has good cafés,
and Hector’s dolphins.
restaurants and pubs – make sure you
Southland Boat Sheds
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place of hidden lakes, tumbling waterfalls
Stewart Island, a 20-minute flight or one-
order a Speight’s beer and try local seasonal
hour ferry trip off the mainland’s southern
delicacies like Stewart Island salmon and
tip, is a wonderland for trampers, wildlife
famed Bluff oysters.
enthusiasts, fishers and divers. The emerald
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
forests and white sandy shores of this
Track is one of the country’s Great Walks.
ecological treasure harbour the country’s
Day trips to neighbouring Ulva Island,
most diverse bird population. Penguins,
a pest-free “open sanctuary” are easily
albatrosses and other seabirds, kaka,
arranged. Another major Southland
parakeets, tui and bellbird can be seen and
attraction is World Heritage-listed Fiordland
heard, and the island is perhaps the best
National Park, home to the dramatic
place in the country to spot kiwis in the wild.
scenery of Milford and Doubtful Sounds
Much of the island is part of Rakiura National Park, and the three-day Rakiura
and the Milford, Kepler and Routeburn walking tracks.
Bluff oysters
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
arrival New Zealand
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FURTHER AFIELD w w w. a r r i v a l . c o . n z
The folks
next door
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”
Sunset Dining - Sanctuary Rarotonga
I
t’s a long haul from the northern
Rarotonga is the capital. The Rarotongan
Beachcomber, Tavarua, Treasure and Castaway
hemisphere to the South Pacific, but
Beach Resort & Spa, situated beside the clear
are all great value. And for something a little
once you’re in New Zealand, some of the
waters and white sand of Aroa Beach, is
different to your average tropical holiday, you
world’s most sought-after locations are close
popular with New Zealanders. There’s also a
can’t go past laid-back and historic Norfolk
at hand. Several idyllic South Pacific nations
sister property on stunning Aitutaki island,
Island, less than two hours’ flying time from
with their unique culture and laid-back
a luxury locale where the landscape is truly
New Zealand.
lifestyle are just a short flight away, or you can
exceptional.
hop across the Tasman to Australia.
Vanuatu, Fiji, Tahiti and New Caledonia are
Australia is just a 3½ hour flight across the Tasman and is a big tourist destination. Visit
also renowned 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. The Cook Islands are a
resort of Iririki is located.
Sydney or Adelaide, all accessible via a direct
With a choice of resort-style and
favourite, consisting of 15 islands, of which
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arrival New Zealand
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
imMIGRATION
Buying Kiwi dollars?
w w w. a r r i v a l . c o . n z
Make sure you get the best exchange rate
Don’t let the banks cash in! If you are moving to NZ and need to transfer your currency from overseas, let the specialists at HiFX Foreign Exchange, make sure your money goes as far as you do! Simple online platform
THE BEEHIVE
Making the move
- options for living and working in New Zealand
I
f you want to spend an extended amount
as a temporary work visa, or apply to live and
of time in New Zealand or even move
work here permanently under the
here for good, there are several options
Skilled Migrant Category (SMC). The
available. Many young people aged 18 – 30
government maintains lists of industries
Dedicated dealers
years can enter under the Working Holiday
where there are skill shortages, and those
Highly competitive rates
Scheme, which allows eligible citizens from
who work in these areas have an increased
over thirty countries to work for up to
chance of making a successful application.
No hidden fees
twelve months (23 months for UK visitors).
At present, there is also a special Canterbury
You must be coming to New Zealand
Skills Shortage List, with many people
Highly secure
mainly to holiday, with work or study as
required to help in the post-earthquake
the secondary reason for your visit. Other
rebuild. Other immigration categories
criteria also apply – these differ depending
include students, refugees, seasonal work,
on which country you come from.
and business and investment. For full
Tel: 0800 394 439 or visit www.hifx.co.nz
Longer term options are the Silver
information on New Zealand’s immigration
Fern Job Search and Silver Fern Practical
policies including the skills lists, visit www.
Experience categories. These policies aim to
immigration.govt.nz.
bring skilled people aged 20 – 35 years into New Zealand. After applying from outside the country, the Silver Fern Job Search visa allows successful applicants to enter New Zealand for nine months to search for skilled employment. Once appropriate employment has been found, they can apply for a Silver
currency services eXpertly done HiFX Limited holds an Australian Financial Services Licence (AFSL) No. 240914 and is regluated by the Australian Securities and Investments Commission.
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arrival New Zealand
Fern Practical Experience visa, which allows them to work in that employment for up to two years. Those who don’t meet the criteria for these policies could investigate options such
HiFX HiFX provides unrivalled foreign exchange services to businesses and individuals around the globe. Recognised as a leader in foreign exchange, whatever your plans HiFX can help you transfer your funds via our simple online system or via a dedicated dealer for larger transactions. HiFX will ensure every aspect of your transaction is as simple, cost effective and stress-free as possible.
Your New Zealand discovery starts right here. Auckland’s i-SITE Visitor Centres can help you book your holiday in Auckland and New Zealand. See our teams for bookings and information about attractions, activities, accommodation, rental cars, motorhomes, buses and ferries. Open seven days.
Ph:
+64 9 367 6009 or 0800 282 552 (0800 AUCKLAND) Email: reservations@aucklandnz.com Web: www.aucklandnz.com Visit our friendly staff at any of the following locations: Auckland International Airport Auckland Domestic Airport SkyCity Princes Wharf Devonport Takapuna
Orewa Franklin Pukekohe Waiheke Island Great Barrier Island Warkworth
70
$
OFF
WHEN YOU RENT FOR 4 DAYS OR MORE*
The best spots this summer are just a road trip away. Grab your favourite CDs and some snacks then hit the road. With such a great offer you can drive even further and find some exciting new places to explore.
0800 Budget (0800 283 438)
*Offers apply to rentals commencing between 01 October 2011 and 31 March 2012. Relevant coupon number MPNZ056 must be quoted at time of booking. Blackout periods apply from 21 December 2011 - 04 January 2012 and 06 February 2012 - 17 February 2012. Further terms and conditions apply. Visit budget.co.nz or call 0800 Budget for details.
2COMM12438
budget.co.nz