Arrival magazine Issue 38

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 magnicent 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

arrival New Zealand

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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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arrival New Zealand

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

arrival New Zealand

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5

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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arrival New Zealand

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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arrival New Zealand

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

10

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arrival New Zealand

Guarantees a better deal for Third World Producers

arrival New Zealand

â–

11

12

â–

arrival New Zealand

arrival New Zealand

â–

13

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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arrival New Zealand

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

arrival New Zealand

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15

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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17

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).

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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

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24/7 0800 081 025 BOOK NOW CALL backpackercampervans.co.nz

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20

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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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arrival New Zealand

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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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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arrival New Zealand

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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arrival New Zealand

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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arrival New Zealand

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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33

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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arrival New Zealand

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

arrival New Zealand

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37

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

38

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arrival New Zealand

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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39

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

40

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arrival New Zealand

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

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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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arrival New Zealand

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

arrival New Zealand

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47

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

48

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arrival New Zealand

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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arrival New Zealand

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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arrival New Zealand

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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59

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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63

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.

64

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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

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Okere Falls

2 Zorb

5

Whangamarino Hamurana

SCENIC RESERVE

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8 Mokoia Island

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Tourism Information and Bookings

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LAKE ROT SCEN RESER

Lake Rotoehu

5 Raftabout

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3 Rainbow Springs MATAWHAURA

LAKE ROTOITI SCENIC RESERVE

Lake Rotoiti

LAKE ROTOKAKAHI SCENIC RESERVE

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PRESENT THIS VOUCHER FOR

10% DISCOUNT ON DAYTIME ADMISSION

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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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Rotowhero (Green Lake) RAINBOW MTN SCENIC RESERVE

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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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69

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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arrival New Zealand

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

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74

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arrival New Zealand

T H E

G U I D E

T O

N E W

Z E A L A N D

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

arrival New Zealand

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75

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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arrival New Zealand

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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77

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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arrival New Zealand

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,

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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

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District & Family Courts

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Premier how early Maori, Polynesian and European House

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refuges include the Manawatu River

while across the harbour there’s pretty Days Heart Primary School RC

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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.

90

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.

■

79

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

arrival New Zealand

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81

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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arrival New Zealand

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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83

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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arrival New Zealand

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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85

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

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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

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her

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Valid for 2 x Adu any other promo Not valid with

arrival New Zealand

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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

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• 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.

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‘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

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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

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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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arrival New Zealand

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.

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budget.co.nz