741 by TNT MAGAZINE

May/June 2014 Issue 741

! IN W K GO SHAR

CAGE DIVING IN SOUTH AFRICA!

TOP 10 AUSSIE ISLANDS ‘Wave’ hello to these beauts (‘sea’ what we did there?)

JUDGE THE NUDE OLYMPICS And other random job ideas...

T I O T JUMP

it... ighbour a vis e n g in k o o -l d r goo you paid you e m ti ’s It ? d n to New Zeala Still not been

+ GOOD BEER WEEK DJ TIGERLILY WHITSUNDAYS SOUTH PACIFIC

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17th - 25th May2014 GOODBEERWEEK.COM.AU 01_741p3-17 UPFRONT.indd 2

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EDITORIAL Editor Caroline Garnar Online Editor Vicky Anscombe TNT Australia Editorial Ian Armitage ian.armitage@tntmagazine.com Contributors Michael Gadd, Francesca Baker, Charlotte Lennon, Alex Harmon, Xav Judd DESIGN AND PRODUCTION Design and production manager Lisa Ferron SALES Sales manager Jaqui Ward jaqui.ward@tntmagazine.com STARTRACK MEDIA LTD CEO Kevin Ellis Chairman Ken Hurst

FROM THE EDITOR

PUBLISHER Startrack Media Ltd PRINTED BY Rural Press PICTURES Getty Images | Thinkstock | TNT Images | Tourism New Zealand | Tourism Fiji TNT Magazine online tntdownunder.com General enquiries ian.armitage@tntmagazine.com jaqui.ward@tntmagazine.com WHERE TO GET TNT

SEE tntdownunder.com/magazine-location.html for pick-up points

Mmm....beer (sound of drooling). I love the frothy stuff. So it’s lucky for me, and I’d imagine the rest of this country’s population, that Melbourne and Victoria are dedicating a whole week to beer, beer, wonderful beer. And it’s not just drinking (although there will be plenty of that), but ‘beer battles’, brewing workshops, live music and comedy. See page 18 for more information and to get your gut growling. If you’re worried about how much all this beer guzzling is going to cost you, then you need to get a new job pronto. We like to keep life interesting here at TNT, so we’ve rounded up the quirkiest jobs on offer that are so far from an office you will forget what a computer looks like. I’m talking pearl diving, jackarooing (or jillarooing if you’re a woman – see what they did there?) and, er, scrotum measuring (p22). Or to handle something else round and plump (and sometimes furry), you could spend the season fruit picking instead (p90), which is arguably more appealing. If you’re doing alright in the wallet department, then you’ll want to spend some of that hard-earned cash on discovering this awesome part of the world you’re calling home for now. You can’t go wrong with a trip around Whitsundays, using Airlie beach as a base (p40), or if you are popping next door for a nose around, be sure to give the Kiwi Experience guys a call. They are good neighbours indeed (and, as we know, everybody needs those, p66). If it’s Bali Ha’i in the South Pacific that’s been calling you, I’m sorry to tell you, it’s made up (damn that tease of a musical!). However Samoa, Tonga, Fiji, Vanuatu and the Solomon islands are all very real and just as magical, so hop on a plane and tell ‘that special island’ to stick it – you’ve found your own thanks very much (p82). Right, I’m off to guzzle some beer, just for y’know, practise...

caroline.garnar@tntmagazine.com

TNT Magazine is printed on paper from sustainable forests. There is no business connection between the proprietors of this magazine and TNT Ltd, the worldwide transportation group. TNT Magazine does not assume responsibility for unsolicited submissions – material is sent at the owner’s risk. TNT Magazine accepts advertising material and other contributions in good faith, and takes no responsibility for claims, errors or omissions. Copyright here and abroad of all original materials is held by TNT Magazine. Reproduction in whole or part is forbidden, except with permission of the publishers.

Quaint Queenstown

World Cup guide

Newcastle Oz style

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THIS MONTH DIARY 6 FOOD 10 DRINK 11

GIGS 12 PUBS

GOOD BEER WEEK

JUDGE NUDE PEOPLE

DJ TIGERLILY

SPORT ROUND-UP 26 PREM LEAGUE RUNDOWN 28 TRAVEL

TRAVEL DIARY 32 HOTSHOTS

TRAVEL REVIEW

ON THE COVER GOOD BEER WEEK

TOP 5: WET ADVENTURES 38

JUDGE NUDE PEOPLE

OZ: AIRLIE BEACH

And other random jobs...

TOP 10: AUSSIE ISLANDS 46 NZ: KIWI EXPERIENCE BIG TRIP: SOUTH PACIFIC

66 82

Seven days of the frothy stuff. Woop

DJ TIGERLILY

We chat to the DJ/part-mermaid

AIRLIE BEACH

Whitsunday’s sandy paradise

TOP 10 OZ ISLANDS

‘Wave’ hello to these beauts

AUSTRALIA LISTINGS

NEW ZEALAND LISTINGS

CAREERS 90 DESPERATELY SEEKING

JUMP TO IT

It’s time you visited your neighbour

SOUTH PACIFIC

Hear its call – it’s closer than you think

TNTDOWNUNDER.COM

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The Legend of

LUKE KELLY by Chris Kavanagh

PLUS SPECIAL GUEST

PADDY

CASEY Fri 11TH July: Sun 13TH July: Fri 18TH July: Sat 19TH July:

RIVERSIDE THEATRE, Perth FORUM THEATRE, Melbourne TIVOLI THEATRE, Brisbane ENMORE THEATRE, Sydney

On sale 15th April. Early Bird Tickets from $60 For more info visit SRnR.COM.AU

> ticketek.com.au > ticketmaster.com.au

> ticketmaster.com.au > ticketek.com.au

OZDIARY

@tntdownunder

THIS MONTH’S TOP PICKS V8 SUPERCARS PERTH 400

VIVID SYDNEY

May 16 Perth

May 23-June 9 Sydney

As Perth’s largest motorsport event, be sure to witness the fight as Ford, Holden, Nissan, Mercedes-Benz AMG and Volvo hit the track and battle it out for the allimportant Championship points. Vroom.

As if there wasn’t already reason enough to visit Sydney, the city will once again be transformed into a spectacular canvas of light, music and ideas when Vivid Sydney takes over after dark from May 23. See its iconic landmarks like never before.

Times vary Barbagallo Raceway, Neerabup WA 6065 v8supercars.com.au

6pm-midnight 88 Cumberland Street, Sydney vividsydney.com

FREE

$78

MUST DO MELBOURNE JAZZ FESTIVAL May 30-June 8 Melbourne Melbourne’s annual festival of jazz is back with stacks of free and ticketed events to see. This year catch stars such as Charles Lloyd Sky Trio, Chick Corea, Gary Burton, Jorge Pardo (pictured) and the Glenn Miller Orchestra. Don’t miss the free jazz at Fed Square on June 1. $0+

Look into my eyes... and you’re under

CAPITAL PUNISHMENT V May 24 Wellington This is the fifth and final Capital Punishment V Festival. In the five years since the first 12-hour metal festival many bands have brutalised the stage. Make sure you’re there to headbang goodbye. $10

3pm Valhalla Bar, 154 Vivian Street eventfinder.co.nz/2014/ capital-punishment-v/wellington

INTERNATIONAL SPANISH PAELLA CHAMPIONSHIPS May 25 Manly Beach

Times vary Across Melbourne melbournejazz.com

NITRO CIRCUS LIVE May 25 Sydney

STEAMPUNK NZ FESTIVAL May 29-June 2 Omaru

Tantalise your tastebuds, transport your senses to Spain and be sure to come hungry when the International Spanish Paella Championships comes to Sydney on May 25. Ready, steady, cook off.

Travis Pastrana’s Nitro Circus Live is an exciting, adrenalin-charged, live action-sports show with BMXing, FMXing and skating. Expect deathdefying stunts via the ‘Wall of Death’ and the ominoussounding ‘Launch and Splat’.

The Steampunk NZ Festival 2014 is New Zealand’s largest and longest-running steampunk event. What is steampunk? Imagine modern technology but powered by steam and set in the 1800s. It’s cool.

10am-4pm The Corso, Manly Beach flavoursofspain.com.au

2pm onwards Allphones Arena nitrocircuslive.com

10am-4pm daily 1 Itchen Street, North Otago steampunknz.co.nz

FREE

$79

$10

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Rhys Darby: Rocking the bear look...

RHYS DARBY: MR ADVENTURE Until May 31 New Zealand The Mr Adventure tour is New Zealand comedy superstar Rhys Darby’s biggest one yet – from the misty mountains of Rwanda to the eerie shores of Loch Ness, he has attempted to see it all... now he’s home to tell you the stories. Expect tales of awe from the summit of Mt Kilimanjaro and hilarious live reenactments of his cryptic discoveries in gun-toting Texas. $42+

Various times Nationwide across New Zealand rhysdarby.com

MERREPEN ARTS FESTIVAL May 31-June 2 Nauiyu

SYDNEY FILM FESTIVAL June 4-15 Sydney

A weekend of music, indigenous art and weaving held in the Daly River community of Nauiyu, around three hours’ drive from Darwin. There’s plenty of accommodation if you want to make a holiday of it.

There will be more than 180 films from roughly 50 different countries at this year’s Sydney Film Festival. While you couldn’t possibly watch them all, it is certainly worth trying... after all if you don’t try you don’t get.

Times vary Daly River NT 0822 merrepenfestival.com.au

Times vary 10 Hickson Road, The Rocks sff.org.au

$10+

Photos: Facebook, Supplied

FREE

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OZDIARY

@tntdownunder

Not you Black Doug! Actor and comedian Mike Epps

Tatts Finke: One for every dirt bike bucket list

See Indigenous Australian community life at Barunga

NORTH

SOUTH

WEST

ASIA PACIFIC OUTGAMES MAY 10-16 / VARIOUS TIMES The first inclusive LGBT sporting Outgames festival was held in Melbourne back in 2008, and this year it is heading to Darwin.

UNCORKED WITH VASSE FELIX MAY 23 / FROM 4.30PM / $20 Vasse Felix was the first vineyard and winery to be established in Margaret River. Head to this wine night for a literal taste of success.

MIKE EPPS: AFTER DARK TOUR MAY 19 / 7.30PM / $69 You might know Mike Epps as Black Doug from The Hangover, but there’s more to him than that. A lot more, and it’s all hilarious.

Various venues

National Wine Centre

Regal Theatre

Darwin, NT

Cnr of Botanic & Hackney Rd, Adelaide

474 Hay Street, Subiaco, Perth

3apog.com.au

wineaustralia.net.au

perthcomedyfest.com.au

BARUNGA FESTIVAL JUNE 6-9 / VARIOUS TIMES / $35 Enjoy music, sport an culture at this fascinating indigenous festival.

ADELAIDE ANTIQUE FAIR 2014 MAY 30-JUNE 1 / VARIOUS TIMES / $7 Enjoy shopping for unique treasures? You’ll find plenty here.

AVON VALLEY GOURMET FOOD AND WINE FESTIVAL MAY 31-JUNE 1 / 10AM-4PM / $12+ Tempt your tastebuds and get blotto. Perfect.

Heritage Park

Burnside Ballroom

Northam Recreation Centre

Central Arnhem Rd, Barunga

Cnr of Greenhill and Portrush Rd, Tusmore

Peel Terrace, Northam

barungafestival.com.au

adelaideantiquefair.com

avoneventsandmarketing.com

TATTS FINKE DESERT RACE JUNE 7-9 / VARIOUS TIMES / FREE Off road, multi-terrain two-day race for bikes, cars, buggies and quads.

SKATESCOOL WORKSHOP AND ROLLER DISCO JUNE 13 / 6.30PM / FROM $15 Get your skates on, this is going to be fun...

A TASTE OF BROOME UNTIL SEPT / 5.30PM-9.30PM / $40 A unique multi-arts performance and cuisine experience. Tickets are limited so be quick.

Finke Desert Race & Drag Strip

Cornerstone College

Goolarri Amphitheatre

LOT 3884 Stuart Hwy, Arumbera

68 Adelaide Road, Mount Barker,

7 Blackman Street, Broome

finkedesertrace.com.au

skatescool.com.au

goolarri.com/atob

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OZDIARY

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EAST

NEW ZEALAND

THE SUTTON’S CIDER FESTIVAL MAY 18 / 11AM-4PM / $90 If you’re in Queensland and love cider you’d be crazy to miss this – the state’s first cider festival. Don’t be put off by the price, it includes food.

BILLY CONNOLLY HORSE TOUR ENDS MAY 14 / $89 By the time this hits the press there will be just a few dates left on the tour, but they’ll include Wellington and Hamilton.

Suttons Farm

Nationwide across New Zealand

10 Halloran Drive, Thulimbah

Various

suttonsfarm.com.au/ciderfestival

billyconnolly.com

SYDNEY WRITERS FESTIVAL MAY 19-25 / 6.30PM / FREE/TICKETED A number of free and ticketed events celebrating the written word. One of the big ticketed events is a chance to see American writer Vince Gilligan, creator of Breaking Bad. Venues across Sydney Sydney, NSW

MISFORTUNE FAVOURS THE DRUNK UNTIL MAY 17 / 7PM / $18 “Who the F%$K are you and why are you in my bed?”. That pretty much says it all. Must-see comedy from Paul Douglas. Q Auckland 305 Queen Street, Auckland pauldouglas.co.nz

swf.org.au

SEMI PERMANENT MAY 22-24 / FROM 9AM DAILY / $195 Speakers at this pretty pricey but seriously cool Sydney event include skaters Tony Hawk and Corbin Harris. There are exhibitions galore and rocking opening and closing parties.

ROCK ‘N BINGO “FLAMING AMAZEBALLS OF AWESOME” MAY 17 / 7PM / FREE Rock and bingo aren’t usually things you would pair together, but these mavericks do and it works. Unleash the inner rock god and prepare for a fantastic night.

Carriageworks

The Pub

245 Wilson St, Eveleigh

101 The Terrace, Wellington

semipermanent.com/sydney-2014

rocknbingo.co.nz

NORTHERN BEACHES EXPO MAY 24-25 / FROM 9AM DAILY / $5 Six expos, one location and one weekend. There will be a variety of amusement rides; oh, and weekend passes are just $5. Warriewood Indoor Sports Centre Jacksons Rd, Warriewood nbexpo.com.au

CHOPPER’S ‘REPEAT OFFENDER’ NZ TOUR UNTIL JUNE 8 / 6.30PM / $42.90 Heath Franklin’s Chopper: Repeat Offender is laugh-out-loud funny and he is taking it on a huge 14-city NZ tour. Nationwide across New Zealand Various laughingstock.co.nz

CASINO BEEF WEEK MAY 24-JUNE 3 / 6.30PM / £28.50 First off, Casino is a town. There is no gambling. But there will be approximately 70 events over 10 days at what is one of the most widely known and popular regional festivals in Australia. Expect plenty of beef. Varies Casino, NSW

BLACKLISTT ALWAYS TOUR JUNE 6 / 8PM -12AM / $40 Hugely popular and one of the country’s most iconic and successful rock/metal bands, expect to hear all this NZ rock band’s classics. Rattle & Hum Bar 141 Bridge Street, Nelson blacklistt.co.uk

casinobeefweek.com.au

ROYAL BLOOD MAY 31 / 6.30PM / £28.50 Part of the British rock duo’s Oz tour.

STARMAKER KARAOKE COMPETITION JUNE 7 / 9PM-11PM / $5 Don’t miss the final of the Starmaker comp.

Corner Hotel

Phoenix Bar

57 Swan St, Richmond

15 Main North Road, Christchurch

frontiertouring.com

facebook.com/phoenixbarandcafe

Oz diary.indd 9

WATCH THIS

THE WORLD CUP This is world football at its best and it kicks off on June 12. Obviously it’s in Brazil. We wouldn’t encourage travelling that far for proceedings, but we do encourage finding a pub to watch it in – if only to laugh along as England crash out in the group stages. Australia’s first game is against Chile in Group B on Friday 13, could that be an unlucky omen? Probably, but if you can’t wait to find out, the Socceroos play a send-off game before departing for Brazil on May 26 against South Africa at Sydney’s Olympic stadium. The match will provide coach Ange Postecoglou with a final opportunity to test his charges – his initial 30-man squad will be trimmed to 23 by June 8. The Aussies aren’t going to win; they find themselves in a tough group. But defending champions Spain and 2010 finalists the Netherlands, both in Group B, have as a good chance as any, as do hosts Brazil, France (who are in the incredibly easy Group E), Italy, Argentina, Belgium and Germany (but they’re in the group of death). See our next issue for our complete World Cup guide.

Photos: Getty. Facebook, Moving Pictures

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NZEATS

@tnt_downunder

BITE SIZE TOTO’S ITALIAN Italian restaurants. The world has plenty, right? Why try another? Well Toto isn’t just any Italian restaurant – oh no. It’s won a host of awards over the years and, best of all, on weekdays from 3pm to 6pm you can enjoy drink specials and free pizza. That’s right, FREE PIZZA. Everything else on the menu is smashing too. You’ll never look down on Italian again. totorestaurant.co.nz

THE FRENCH CAFE We consider ourselves to be an optimistic bunch. Always looking on the bright side and all that. So we’re actually excited about the autumn weather rolling in as it means a delicious change to seasonal menus. Our fave so far is The French Cafe’s, with caramelised pork belly and roasted quail. Yes please. thefrenchcafe.co.nz

EMPORIUM EATERY & BAR Napier, NZ

Over in Napier – the east coast’s Art Deco capital – is Emporium, a stylish, laid-back eatery and bar. Part of the Masonic Hotel, the current building has existed since 1932 – rebuilt and reformed from New Zealand’s devastating 1931 earthquake – and is full of heritage and vintage decor from various periods. Old battered suitcases, well-used bicycles and typewriters line the ceiling, black-and-white photographs adorn the walls, and classic movies are on show. Competition for outdoor tables overlooking the esplanade and Marine Parade is high on sunny days, while inside, the big open space, high ceilings, and dark wood make this an elegant place to stop for lunch, dinner with friends, a quick drink or to relax with a glass of wine and the newspaper. THE GRUB There’s no real style, just a breadth of the best on offer. Open from 7am until 11pm, the menu features everything from poached eggs on wholegrain, local green lip mussels, and prawn, rocket and calabrese pizza, to Eton mess and baklava NZ style: served with Hokey Pokey ice cream. BEHIND THE BAR Manager Shaya has carefully crafted the extensive drinks menu to include craft beers, every spirit imaginable, and of course wines from the Hawke’s Bay region in which it sits. BILL PLEASE Mains range from $23 for a pizza to $30 for steak. A couple can expect to pay around $140 for two courses, with sides, dessert, and a bottle of wine. VERDICT Merging the space between bar and restaurant, it’s a place to just be and watch the world go by. Francesca Baker THE SCENE

Photos: Facebook

THE GRILL

Created by celebrity chef Sean Connolly, this place is a celebration of ‘great food and good company’ and you’ll find a distinctly Kiwi accent to the menu. Most ingredients are locally sourced, as are the wines, and, whether you want a casual lunch with pals or a more sophisticated dinner (perhaps because you’re on a date, set to impress), there’s something to suit every occasion. auckland.co.nz/restaurants/the-grill

Cnr of Tennyson Street & Marine Parade, Napier

emporiumbar.co.nz

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TYLER STREET GARAGE Auckland

An old converted garage on the newly revamped Britomart complex will always exude a knowing too-cool-for-school air. Stripped breeze block walls and steel frames downstairs create an industrial feel, while a small rooftop bar overlooks the docks and wharves. Open everyday from 11.30am until late, with regular DJs and live music, serving decent food and a range of drinks, it’s pretty much all things to all people. BEHIND THE BAR There are 12 bottled beers starting at $8.50 for Steinlager Pure, six beers and ciders on tap at $9 a pint, and a short-but-sweet cocktail menu including a rather elegant G&T containing lavender and rosemary-infused gin, St Germain elderflower, Quina Fina tonic, soda and grapefruit; and a sickly sweet Gingerbread Man, where Amaretto and Frangelico are spun and shaken with gingerbread spice liquor ($16 each). It’s also got an impressive wine list. THE GRUB Usual bar and pub fare of large (oily) cheese and meat-laden pizzas ($23), big steel buckets of thin fries, and hearty burgers weigh down the tables. There are also lighter options, such as calamari and spiced chickpea salad ($16). It’s all decent fare, and filling before a night on the drinks. BILL PLEASE Coming in at around $40 for a main and two drinks per person, it’s not bad given its insouciant air and location. VERDICT Decent, hip and with a broad appeal. Francesca Baker THE SCENE

Photo: Tyler Street Garage/Twitter, Facebook Words: Francesca Baker/Ian Armitage

120 Quay St, Auckland

tylerstreetgarage.co.nz

3 OF THE BEST AUCKLAND ROOFTOP BARS

THE ROXY

LA ZEPPA

FORT ST UNION

The Roxy is part of the everpopular Imperial Building in Auckland’s CBD and takes its name from the centuryold theatre the space was once home to. It is a bar and lounge with a buzzing vibe and its rooftop deck is one of the city’s best, offering stunning views of the midtown skyline.

Situated directly behind Victoria Park Market, La Zeppa has created a unique atmosphere set in an industrial warehouse. It has a large outdoor wooden deck with a view of the Sky Tower on one side and the market’s historic 38-metre high chimney on the other. Known for tapas and DJ sets.

Fort Street Union is another place with a cracking rooftop garden bar. Located in a 100-year-old heritage site, it has a party atmosphere after dark and is perfect for catching up with friends over a drink or two earlier in the evening. Serves up delicious rooftop pizzas and craft beers.

roxy.co.nz

lazeppa.co.nz

fortstreetunion.co.nz

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GIGLISTINGS

@tnt_downunder

WEDS MAY 14 The Jezabels $35 Kings Arms, France St, Auckland dashtickets.co.nz

BOOK NOW!

Hiatus Kaiyote $22 Howler, Melbourne nicheproductions.com.au

THUR MAY 15 The Jezabels $35 Bodega, Wellington dashtickets.co.nz RUFUS $39.60 Palace Theatre, Melbourne facebook.com/rufussounds The Vernons $10. Boney, Melbourne facebook.com/thevernonsband

FRI MAY 16 RUFUS $39.60 The Wool Exchange, Geelong oztix.com.au

SAT MAY 17 Triple j’s One Night Stand FREE Mildura abc.net.au/triplej/events/ onenightstand/14

THE LEGEND OF LUKE KELLY Perth, Melbourne, Brisbane and Sydney. July 11, 13, 18 & 19 Luke Kelly, generally regarded as one of the greatest folk artists of the 20th Century, died 30 years ago. Thirty! How time flies... This July, “The Legend of Luke Kelly” performed by Chris Kavanagh – who bears an uncanny resemblance to Kelly – and the Patriots will pay tribute to this musical legend. They, and special guest Paddy Casey, will tour Perth, Melbourne, Brisbane and Sydney this July. Don’t miss the chance to see a legend brought back to life. ticketmaster.com Funkoars $28.90 Capitol, Perth amplifiercapitol.com.au

SUN MAY 18 Susy Blue $7 The Toff in Town, Melbourne susyblue.net

WEDS MAY 21 Lauryn Hill $99 Palais Theatre, Melbourne nicheproductions.com.au Michael Buble $160 Vector Arena, Auckland daintygroup.com

THUR MAY 22 Michael Buble $99+ Vector Arena, Auckland daintygroup.com

FRI MAY 23

SAT MAY 24 Celtic Thunder $99 Jupiters Hotel, Gold Coast celticthunder.ie/tour

TUES MAY 27 Lauryn Hill $102.60 Sydney Opera House nicheproductions.com.au Gary Numan $86.90 The Tivoli, Brisbane garynuman.com/tour

WEDS MAY 28 Dru Hill $55. Studio, K Rd, Auckland cosmicticketing.co.nz

Vance Joy $25 The Forum, Melbourne vancejoy.com

Lauryn Hill $82.60 Sydney Opera House nicheproductions.com.au

Pixies $69 Sydney Opera House, Sydney pixiesmusic.com

Jurassic 5 $91 Metro City, Perth liveindustry.co.uk

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Ellie Goulding $71.95 Challenge Stadium, Perth frontiertouring.com Hiatus Kaiyote $22. Howler, Melbourne nicheproductions.com.au

THURS MAY 29 Dru Hill $55. James Cabaret, Wellington cosmicticketing.co.nz The English Beat $59 Sammys, Dunedin metropolistouring.com

FRI MAY 30 The Paper Kites $37.50 Enmore Theatre, Sydney thepaperkites.com.au Gary Numan $84.50. The Hi-Fi, Melbourne garynuman.com/tour

SAT MAY 31

Gary Numan $86.90 Metro Theatre, Sydney garynuman.com/tour

SUN JUNE 1 Gabrielle Aplin $33 Oxford Art Factory, Sydney frontiertouring.com Ellie Goulding $71.95 Adelaide, Adelaide frontiertouring.com The Beards $26 Astor Theatre, Perth thebeards.com.au/tour

MON JUNE 2 Classics at Fed Square FREE Federation Sqaure, Melbourne fedsquare.com

TUE JUNE 3

Gabrielle Aplin $33 The Toff in Town, Melbourne frontiertouring.com

Celtic Thunder $99 Bendigo Stadium, Bendigo celticthunder.ie/tour

Ellie Goulding $72.35 Festival Hall, Melbourne frontiertouring.com

Ellie Goulding $72.90 Hordern Pavilion, Sydney frontiertouring.com

WEDS JUNE 4 Ben Ransom FREE Three Wise Monkeys, Sydney ransommusic.com

THUR JUNE 5 Ellie Goulding $73.80 Brisbane Convention Centre, Brisbane frontiertouring.com RUFUS $35.20 The Entrance Leagues Club, Bateau Bay oztix.com.au Dan Sultan $51.55 Eatons Hill Hotel, Brisbane oztix.com.au

FRI JUNE 6 The Beards $25 Wollongong Uni, Wollongong thebeards.com.au/tour

SAT JUNE 7 Ellie Goulding $76 Vector Arena, Auckland frontiertouring.com

Photo: Facebook

Mustered Courage $15 The Vanguard, Sydney thevanguard.com.au

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OZPUBS SYDNEY Anchor Bar 8 Campbell Parade, Bondi Beach anchorbarbondi.com Bar Century 1/640, George St, CBD barcentury.com.au Beach Road Hotel 71 Beach Road, Bondi Beach beachroadbondi.com.au Candy’s Apartment 22 Bayswater Road, Potts Point candys.com.au Coogee Palace Hotel 169 Dolphin St, Coogee beachpalacehotel.com.au DOME Bar 589 Crown Street, Surry Hills domefunctions.com Donny’s Bar 7 Market Ln, Manly donnys.com.au Flinders Hotel 63-65 Flinders St, Surry Hills theflindershotel.com.au Hotel Bondi 178 Campbell Parade, Bondi hotelbondi.com.au Hotel Steyne 75 The Corso, Manly steynehotel.com.au In Situ 1/18 Sydney Rd, Manly insitumanly.com.au Kinselas Hotel 383 Bourke St, Darlinghurst kinselas.com.au

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Oxford Art Factory 38-46 Oxford St, Darlinghurst oxfordartfactory.com Ryan’s Paragon Hotel Loftus St, CBD hotelparagon.com.au Scary Canary 469 Kent St, CBD scarycanarybar.com Scubar 4 Rawson Place, CBD scubar.com.au Side Bar 509 Pitt St, CBD wakeup.com.au/sidebar The Beresford 354 Bourke St, Surry Hills merivale.com.au/ theberesfordhotel The Palace Hotel George St, CBD palacehotelsydney.com.au The Vanguard 42 King St, Newtown thevanguard.com.au The White Horse 381 Crown St, Surry Hills thewhitehorsesurryhills.com.au Trinity Bar 505 Crown St, Surry Hills trinitybar.com.au 3 Wise Monkeys 555 George St, CBD 3wisemonkeys.com.au 4 Pines 29/43-45 East Esplanade, Manly 4pinesbeer.com.au

MELBOURNE

Black Pearl 304 Brunswick St, Fitzroy blackpearlbar.com.au Cherry Bar 103 Flinders Lane, CBD cherrybar.com.au Corner Hotel 57 Swan Street, Richmond cornerhotel.com Eden Bar and Nightclub 1/163 Russell Street, CBD edenbar.com.au Esplanade Hotel 11 The Esplanade, St Kilda espy.com.au Northcote Social Club 301 High Street, Northcote northcotesocialclub.com Palace Theatre 20-30 Bourke St, CBD palace.com.au Shamiana 420 Lonsdale St, CBD shamiana.com.au Star Bar 160 Clarendon Street starbarhotel.com.au

ADELAIDE The Apple Bar 5-9 Synagogue Pl, CBD theapplebar.com.au Earl of Leicester Hotel 85 Leicester Street, Parkside earl.com.au Electric Circus 17 Crippen Place, CBD crippenplace.com

Pig ‘N’ Whistle Riverside 123 Eagle Street, CBD pignwhistle.com.au The Exchange Hotel 131 Edward St, CBD theexchange.com.au The Fringe Bar Cnr Ann St & Constance St, Fortitude Valley fringebar.com.au

Grace Emily Hotel 232 Waymouth St, CBD yourbars.com.au

The Met Nightclub 56a/256 Wickham St, Fortitude Valley themet.com.au

The Promethean 116 Grote St, CBD theprom.com.au

Toro Bar 416 Milton Rd, Auchenflower facebook.com

PERTH The Clink 14-16 South Terrace, Fremantle theclink.com.au Subiaco Hotel 465 Hay Street, Subiaco subiacohotel.com.au The Shed 69-71 Aberdeen St, Northbr. the-shed.com.au

The Gin Mill 173 High St, Prahran theginmillprahran.com

The Windsor 112 Mill Point Rd, thewindsorsouthperth.com.au

The Hi-Fi 125 Swanston Street, CBD thehifi.com.au

Voodoo Lounge 174 James St, Northbridge thevoodoolounge.com.au

The Night Owl 35 Elizabeth Street, CBD facebook.com

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BRISBANE

The Night Cat 137-141 Johnston St, Fitzroy thenightcat.com.au

Canvas Club 16b Logan St, Woolloongabba canvasclub.com.au

Super Whatnot 48 Burnett Lane superwhatnot.com

GOLD COAST Benowa Tavern 117 Ashmore Rd, Benowa benowatavern.com.au Blush Nightclub 21 Orchid Avenue, Surfers Paradise blushnightclub.com.au Coolangatta Sands Hotel Griffith St, Coolangatta coolangattasandshotel.com.au Shooters Superclub Shop 46 The Mark, Orchid Avenue, Surfers Paradise shooterssuperclub.com

CAIRNS

Marlborough Hotel 145 King St, Newtown marlboroughhotel.com.au

Asian Beer Cafe Level 3 Melbourne Central, CBD asianbeercafe.com.au

The Penny Black 420 Sydney Road, Brunswick thepennyblack.com.au

GPO Hotel 740 Anne St, Fortitude Valley gpohotel.com.au

Ba8 Lounge Bar Shangri-La Hotel, The Pier at the Marina, Pier Point ba8.com.au

Mount Batten Hotel 701 George Street, CBD sydneycityhostels.com.au

Bar Humbug 586 Little Bourke St, CBD barhumbug.com.au

The Tote 67-71 Johnston Street, Coll. thetotehotel.com

Hotel LA 68 Petrie Terrace, CBD hotella.com.au

Dunwoody’s Tavern 317 Sheridan St, North Cairns dunwoodys.com.au

New Brighton Hotel 71 The Corso, Manly newbrightonhotel.com.au

Brutale 18 Corrs Lane, CBD brutale.com.au

Turf Bar 131 Queen St, CBD turfbar.com.au

Iceworks 157 Given Terrace, Paddington iceworks.com.au

Salt House 6/2 Pier Point Rd, CBD salthouse.com.au

STAR BAR SUNDAYS If it’s Sunday and you’re in Melbourne there is no better place to go than Star Bar on Clarendon Street. It has bars spread over two levels and a gorgeous roof top terrace with people ready to party even on the day of rest. 160 Clarendon St, Melbourne starbarhotel.com.au

Photo: Star Bar

$6 SCHOONERS

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OZPUBS

The Woolshed 24 Shields Street, CBD thewoolshed.com.au

Cricketers Arms 61 Bruce St, Cooks Hill cricketersarmshotel.com.au

Vibe Bar and Lounge 39-49 Lake St. CBD vibebarcairns.com pub

Hamilton Hotel 442 Kingsford Smith Dve, Ham hamiltonhotel.com.au

HOBART Bar Celona 23 Salamanca Sq, CBD barcelonahobart.com Raincheck Lounge 392-394 Elizabeth St, North Hobart rainchecklounge.com.au Republic Bar & Cafe 299 Elizabeth St, North Hobart republicbar.com Shipwrights Arms 29 Trumpeter St, Battery Point shipwrightarms.com.au The Duke 192 Macquarie Street CBD theduke.com.au

NEWCASTLE

Hamilton Station Hotel 2-6 Beaumont St, Islington hamiltonstation.com.au Hotel Delany 134 Darby St, CBD hoteldelany.com Kent Hotel 59-61 Beaumont St, Hamilton thekenthotel.com.au King Street Hotel 15 Steel St, Newcastle West kingstreethotel.com.au Lass O’Gowrie 14 Railway St, Wickham lassogowriehotel.com.au Mary Ellen Hotel 57 Railway St, Mereweather maryellenhotel.com.au Oriental Hotel 53 Bull St, Cooks Hill facebook.com/theorihotel

Albion Hotel 72 Hannell St, Wickham thealbion.com.au

Premier Hotel 1 Brunker Rd, Broadmeadow hotelpremier.com.au

Bar Petite 5 King St, CBD barpetite.com.au

Royal Inn Hotel Waratah 61/69 Station St, Waratah truelocal.com.au

Burwood Inn Hotel 77 Berner Street, Merewether theburwood.com.au

Silo Restaurant and Lounge 18/1 Honeysuckle Dr, CBD silolounge.com.au

Cambridge Hotel 789 Hunter St, CBD yourcambridge.com

Sunnyside Tavern 20 Broadmeadow Rd, Broadmeadow sunnysidetavern.com.au

The Northern Star 112 Beaumont St, Hamilton northernstarhotel.com.au Wickham Park Hotel 61 Maitland Rd, Islington thewicko.com.au

BYRON BAY Beach Hotel Bay St beachhotel.com.au Byron Bay Brewery 1 Skinners Shoot Road byronbaybrewery.com.au Cheeky Monkey’s 115 Jonson St cheekymonkeys.com.au La La Land Level 1/6 Lawson St lalalandbyronbay.com.au The Northern 35-43 Jonson St thenorthern.com.au

ICBM Bar 50 Northbourne Ave icbmbar.com Mooseheads 105 London Circuit mooseheads.com.au P.J O’Reilly’s 52 Alinga St pjoreillys.com.au Transit Bar 7 Akuna St transitbar.com.au

WOLLONGONG Alibi 76 Crown Street wollongongnightlife.com.au Castros 5 Victoria Street facebook.com/castros Glasshouse Nightclub 90 Crown Street facebook.com/ sucasawollongong

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DARWIN Ducks Nuts 76 Mitchell St, CBD ducksnuts.com.au Squires Tavern 3 Edmunds St, CBD squirestavern.com.au Shenannigans 69 Mitchell St, CBD shenannigans.com.au The Deck Bar 22 Mitchell St, CBD thedeckbar.com.au The Tap Bar 58 Mitchell St, CBD thetap.com.au

ALICE SPRINGS Bojangles Saloon 80 Todd St yourbars.com.au Chifley Alice Springs Resort 34 Stott Tce chifleyhotels.com.au

Grand Hotel 234 Keira Street wollongongnightlife.com.au

Firkin & Hound 21 Hartely St yourbars.com.au

Harp Hotel 124 Corrimal Street wollongongnightlife.com.au

Monte’s Lounge Corner of Todd St & Stott Tce montes.net.au

Ivory Nightclub 77 Crown Street wollongongnightlife.com.au

The Juicy Rump @ Lasseters 93 Barret Dr, Desert Springs lasseters.com.au

Academy Club 15 Bunda St academyclub.com.au

OneFiveOne 150 Keira Street wollongongnightlife.com.au

The Rock Bar 78 Todd St therockbar.com.au

Cube Nightclub 33 Petrie Plaza cubenightclub.com.au

Questions Unit 5 123-125 Corrimal Street wollongongnightlife.com.au

Todd Tavern 1 Todd St toddtavern.com.au

Treehouse on Belongil 25 Childe St treehouseonbelongil.com Woody’s Surf Shack 90-96 Jonson St woodysbyronbay.com

CANBERRA

TRANSIT BAR Transit Bar is one of Canberra’s most popular bars and live entertainment venues open 12pm-10pm (or later) Monday to Saturday and 2pm-8pm on Sundays, when there is free pool all day. Apparently it also has the effect of making its punters pull really odd faces (man on the bottom left wins). 115 Jonson St, Byron Bay transitbar.com.au

Photo: Facebook

ROCKIN’ BEATS

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AUCKLAND Albion Hotel 119 Hobson St albionhotel.co.nz Brew on Quay 102 Quay St brewonquay.co.nz Bluestone Room 9-11 Durham Lan thebluestoneroom.co.za Cassette 9 9 Vulcan Ln cassettenine.com Cavalier Tavern 68 College Hill thecavalier.co.nz Currach Irish Pub 78 Blackwell Dr currachirishpub.co.nz De Fontein 77 Tamaki Dr, Mission Bay defontein.co.nz Doolan Brothers 414 Khyber Pass Rd, Newmarket doolanbrothers.co.nz Father Ted’s 1 Wellesley St W fatherteds.co.nz Fort Street Union 16 Fort St fortstreetunion.co.nz Gables Speights Ale House 248 Jervois Rd, Herne Bay gablesspeightsalehouse.co.nz Galbraith’s Alehouse 2 Mt Eden Rd, Grafton alehouse.co.nz Garrison Public House 61/286 Mt Wellington Hwy, Mt Wellington South garrisonpub.co.nz

Sprig & Fern 2 Drake St, Freemans Bay sprigandferntaverns.co.nz

The Green Man 25 Victoria St thegreenmanpub.co.nz

Cock & Bull 1 Cnr Maui & Church St, Pukete cockandbull.co.nz

Tainui Tavern 33 Morrin Rd menumania.co.nz

The Malt House 48 Courtenay Pl, Te Aro themalthouse.co.nz

CBD Corner Pub 26 Hood St cbdpub.co.nz

The Fox 85/87 Customs St W thefox.co.nz

The Welsh Dragon Bar 10/12 Cambridge Terrace, Mt Victoria welshdragonbar.co.nz

Easy Tiger Cocktail Bar 186 Victoria St easytigerbar.co.nz

The Zookeeper’s Son 715 Mt Albert Rd zookeepersson.co.nz Three Lamps 1-3 St Marys Rd, St Marys Bay threelamps.co.nz 4.20 bar 373 Karangahape Rd 420.co.nz

Bailies Bar 1066 Colombo St, St Albans bailiesbar.co.nz

WELLINGTON Arbitrageur Wine Room 125 Featherston St arbitrageur.co.nz

Becks Southern Alehouse 155 Colombo St beckssouthernalehouse.co.nz The Brewers Arms 177 Papanui Rd, Merivale thebrewersarms.co.nz

The Bank Bar & Brasserie Cnr Victoria St & Hood St thebank.co.nz The Cook 7 Cook St, Hamilton East thecook.net.nz Speights Ale House 30 Liverpool St speights-hamilton.co.nz Wonder Horse 236 Victoria St wonderhorse.co.nz

Bangalore Polo Club 63 Courtenay Pl, Te Aro bangalorepoloclub.co.nz

Burgers & Beers Inc 355 Colombo St, Sydenham burgersandbeersinc.co.nz

Bodega 101 Ghuznee St bodega.co.nz

Calendar Girls 196 Hereford St calendargirls.co.nz

Dickens Inn 71 Cameron St, Vinetown dickensinn.co.nz

Four Kings Sports Bar 7-11 Dixon St fourkings.co.nz

Darkroom 336 St Asaph St darkroombar.co.nz

Killer Prawn 26-28 Bank St killerprawn.co.nz

Havana Coffee Works 163 Tory St, Te Aro havana..co.nz

Empire Hotel Lyttelton 9 London St, Lyttelton empirelyttelton.co.nz

McCool’s 14 Rust Ave mccools.co.nz pub

Hawthorn Lounge 82 Tory St, Te Aro hawthornlounge.co.nz

Fox & Ferret Palms Palms Shopping Centre, 1 New Brighton Rd, Shirley foxpalms.co.nz

McMorrisseys Irish Pub 7 Vine St, Vinetown mcmorrisseys.co.nz

J J Murphy & Co 119 Cuba St, Te Aro jjmurphy.co.nz Mac’s Brewbar 4 Taranaki St thebrewerybar.co.nz

La Zeppa Kitchen 33 Drake St, Freemans Bay lazeppa.co.nz

Matterhorn 106 Cuba St, Te Aro matterhorn.co.nz

The Lumsden 444/448 Khyber Pass Rd, Newmarket thelumsden.co.nz

MIghty Mighty 104 Cuba St, Te Aro mightymighty.co.nz

BACK IN BLACK

CHRISTCHURCH Bealey’s Speight’s Ale House 263 Bealey Ave bealeysalehouse.co.nz

Foundation Bar Maahanga Dr, Te Awa foundationbar.co.nz

Garden Hotel Bar 110 Marshland Rd, Shirley

gardenhotel.co.nz

WHANGAREI

Parua Bay Tavern 1034 Whangarei Heads Rd, Parua Bay paruabaytavern.co.nz

Pegasus Arms 14 Oxford Terrace pegasus-arms.com

Split Bar Rathbone St splitrestaurant.co.nz s

Tequila Mockingbird 98 Victoria St tequilamockingbird.co.nz

The Old Stone Butter Factory 8 Butter Factory Lane butterfactory.co.nz

The Brewery 3 Garlands Rd, Woolston casselsbrewery.co.nz

DUNEDIN

Malt Bar 442 Richmond Rd maltbar.co.nz

Molly Malones 134 Courtenay Pl, Te Aro mollymalones.co.nz

Normanby Hotel 37 Normandy Rd, Mt Eden thenormanbyhotel.co.nz

San Francisco Bath House 171 Cuba St, Te Aro sfbh.co.nz

Parnell Bar & Grill 196 Parnell Rd, Parnell parnellbarandgrill.co.nz

Southern Cross Garden Bar 39 Abel Smith St, Te Aro thecross.co.nz

Queens Ferry Hotel 12 Vulcan Ln queensferryhotel.co.nz

Sprig & Fern 342 Tinakori Rd sprigandferntaverns.co.nz

Shakespeare Brewery 61 Albert St shakespearehotel.co.nz

The Apartment 25 Allen St, Te Aro theapartment.co.nz

Axces Bar 28 Alexandra St yellow.co.nz

Manny’s Level 1/91 St Andrew St mannysbar.co.nz

Spitting Feathers 16 Wyndham St spittingfeathers.co.nz

The Establishment Cnr of Courtenay Pl and Blair St theestablishment.co.nz

Bar 101 118 Victoria St bar101.co.nz

Stilettos Revue Bar 319 Princes St stilettos.co.nz

The Twisted Hop Pub 616 Ferry Rd thetwistedhop.co.nz Monteiths Brewery Bar 53 Merrin St mbbmerrinst.co.nz No. 4 Bar 4 Mansfield Ave, St Albans no4bar.co.nz

HAMILTON

GISBORNE Aladdin Bar/First Light Aikido 63 Peel St firstlighttaikido.net Lonestar Restaurant & Bar 60 The Esplanade, Inner Kaiti lonestar.co.nz Soho 2 Crawford Rd, Inner Kaiti sohobar.co.nz The Poverty Bay Club 57/65 Customhouse St thepovertybayclub.co.nz The Jolly Stockman 3 Saleyards Rd yellow.co.nz Verve Cafe & Bar 121 Gladstone Rd facebook.com

NAPIER Guffle Bar 29A Hastings St, Napier South guffle.co.nz The Bank Sports Lounge 106 Hastings St facebook.com The Dutch at The Bluewater 10 W Quay, Ahuriri thedutch.co.nz The Gintrap Restaurant & Bar 64 W Quay, Ahuriri gintrap.co.nz The Rose Irish Pub 64 Hastings St masonic.co.nz The Thirsty Whale 62 W Quay, Ahuriri thethirstywhale.co.nz

PLYMOUTH Crowded House Bar 93-99 Devon St E crowdedhouse.co.nz Gusto Restaurant, Cafe & Bar Ocean View Parade gustotaranaki.conz Peggy Gordon’s Celtic Bar 58 Egmont St peggygordons.com

Angus Restaurant & Bar 7 St Andrew St angusdunedin.co.nz

The Mayfair 69 Devon St W themayfair.co.nz

Alibi Bar 1 Princes St alibibar.co.nz

West Bar & Cafe 41 Tukapa St, Westown westbar.co.nz

Captain Cook Tavern 354 Great King St, N Dunedin thecaptaincook.co.nz Luna Bar 314 Highgate Roslyn lunaroslyn.co.nz

TAURANGA Imbibe Bar & Restaurant 19 Girven Rd facebook.com Inbargo Bar & Bistro 4 Palmer Pl, Te Puke inbargobarandbistro.co.nz Major Toms Bar 297 Maunganui Rd, Mt Maunganui majortomsbar.com

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The pursuit of hoppyness Good Beer Week is back and ready to tear up Melbourne and Victoria for the fourth time. Get glugging. WORDS IAN ARMITAGE

Can you think of many things better than a festival devoted to beer? An owl that can fire laser beams from its eyes maybe? Okay they aren't real. Beer is. And for that reason beer festivals win. Good Beer Week (May 17-25) is the king of beer fests as it is Australia's leading celebration of the best of the local and international beer world. Spread across Melbourne and Victoria (mainly Melbs), it has more beers and events (more than 200 in fact) than you can shake a tinnie at. Seriously, it'll be a hopping good time (groan). Being the kind folk we are, we thought we'd help you choose the right event for you. You might be a beer virgin, you might be a seasoned pro, or you might want something international. Whatever the case, you'll need to know where to find it, where you'll fit in and where you'll stand out like a sore thumb. As in 2013, the programme has been split into themes, although these have been tweaked slightly for this year's festival.

Beer 101: For the virgins If you've ever had a proper beer – and we don't mean lager, we mean proper beer – and thought it was disgusting, you're not alone. Most beer virgins will take a sip of the first thing they see, turn their noses up and run. Want to start over? With top-notch tipples, Beer 101 is where you go if you're new, keen to learn the basics and want to begin the righteous journey to beer appreciation. It is presented in conjunction with Little Creatures, which is turning its dining hall on Brunswick Street into Good Beer College for the week – amusingly, there's even going to be a graduation ceremony for star students. Other events you'll want to get to include a Beer Safari at South Wharf Promenade, beer-making courses, and Aussie Ale Adventures. Most events in this stream are free – a bid to pull in newbies no doubt.

ale showcases, opportunities to meet brewers, chances to devour delectable beer and cheese, and even beer and tea evenings, which is an unusual mix. Highlights include The Rogue Embassy Beer Delux, which will see a 12-tap takeover (you'll be sure to find a new favourite beer, trust us) and Brooklyn Brewery’s brewmaster Garrett Oliver going head to head with Martin Spedding, owner of five-star Mornington Peninsula winery Ten Minutes By Tractor, in a beer versus wine battle to the death at Melbourne’s iconic Vue de Monde. Fight!

Beer Geek: For the beer-aholic Beer geeks are the lifeblood of every beer festival. You can tell who they are: they use words that you've never heard before (it's almost like code), aren't afraid to judge, and are always on the hunt for something new (they sometimes look like extras from Lord of the Rings too). If, like the classic beer geek, you love to debate which beer is better, there are a number of 'beer offs'. You'll also have the chance to get involved in brewing masterclasses (which are awesome), try some sour beers and spirits and tuck into a banquet based around Russian Imperial Stouts (Lyubov!). Plus there's something called Around The World in eight Beers where, for just $42 ($10 of which goes to a charity of your choice), ›› Beer 101 at Little Creatures

Beer Lover: For the amateur If you're not a beer virgin, have been to Good Beer Week once or twice before, or have otherwise embraced good beer and know what you’re looking for, then you'll want the Beer Lover stream. It's more advanced than Beer 101, a sort of amateur-cum-intermediate level, and has heaps of events to satisfy every beery ambition, including unique cask TNTDOWNUNDER.COM

Photos: Thinkstock, Good Beer Week, The Crafty Pint, Little Creatures, Terminus Hotel, Jess Shaver and The Beer Diva.

you can drink and brew beer using "crazy ingredients" from around the world. That's on May 21 and starts at 7pm. Put it in your diary.

Foodie: For the hungry

rather unfortunate) #PoO14 on Twitter. Organisers have got some crafty surprises lined up so keep your eyes peeled!

Good Times: For the adventurous

We all know that drinking on an empty stomach isn't wise, so it isn't a surprise that the 2014 Good Beer Week's biggest stream is Foodie, where the aim, as they put it, is "to elevate the concept of beer and food pairing and prove that good beer, presented in the right manner, is the match for any beverage in any establishment". Fair dos. It has come a long way – during the first Good Beer Week, there was a running joke that every beer dinner had to feature pork belly – and is now crammed with events, including the return of Mega Deca (a mega feast exploring beer and food in every way imaginable), Belgian Beer Brunch, Grandad's Supper and Beer Pigs, so expect plenty of top nosh. Most of the Foodie events are ticketed, but they'll prove wine isn't the only tipple that can be paired with food, saving you money on future meals out. Check goodbeerweek.com.au for info.

As Good Beer Week has evolved, the entertainment on offer has evolved too. The popularity of events at the 2013 festival – where "entertainment came first" according to organisers – such as a Secret Cinema, Rockstar Brews at Cherry Bar and a boat trip of the harbour, has led to the creation of the Good Times stream. And there are, indeed, plenty of good times to be had. The festival kicks off with a spectacular opening night party featuring live music, awesome beers and star guests. Take in a show at Coopers Malthouse, jump on the Beer Train on Victoria’s iconic Puffing Billy, sip on beer cocktails, tuck into barbecues, listen to live music and comedy, even play board games. And if you want to work off your beer gut, join a workout in Flagstaff Gardens. Entry for the opening night party is free so you have no excuses for not turning up to what will be an epic night of entertainment.

Pint of Origin: Mixing it up

Country Victoria: Rural exploration

The idea behind the Pint of Origin, presented by Australia’s online home of craft beer The Crafty Pint, is simple: venues with multiple taps turn over their bars to each of the six Australian states and pour beers from that state's brewers all week. The concept has been tweaked a little for 2014 and the net has been cast a wider to include international venues from the US, Europe, New Zealand and beyond. Ten different pubs – The Rainbow Hotel, The Great Northern Hotel, The Alehouse Project, The Tramway Hotel, Brother Burger, The Gertrude Hotel, Village Melbourne, Royston Hotel, Two Row and Great Britain Hotel – will be taking part. There is a heck of a lot going on and you can keep tabs on the latest Pint of Origin action using (the

While the majority of events are happening in Melbourne, there's still plenty going on in Country Victoria covering all of the above categories. We particularly recommend the Yarra Valley Tap Takeover (free) and surfing with the brewer ($70), which is exactly what it sounds like. We're also excited by the return of the Mornington Peninsula Brewery for the third year, which will showcase a variety of different beers from around Australia. It'll last for four days and is free, but when the beers are gone, they're gone... so get in there quick! ❚ Good Beer Week runs May 17-25 in various venues with prices ranging from free to $100 goodbeerweek.com.au

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ARE YOU SPOTTED IN THE CIRCLE?

WIN

If that’s you in the circle, send an email with a photo of yourself and the title ‘Spotted’ to jaqui.ward@tntmagazine. com. Boom! You’ve won a $100 bar tab at Scubar. Like us on facebook/ tntdownunder for more party pics from the night

BANGIN’ MONDAYS April 2014

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A job lot Looking for work and hate being stuck in an office? Let TNT Magazine assist you... WORDS XAV JUDD

Just landed on the shores of Australia or New Zealand and wondering how the hell you’re going to earn your beer money? Well in this wide and wonderful part of the world we’re happy to tell you that you don’t have to sell your soul to the office devil. After all you came out here to get away from the rat race, right? With that in mind we’ve rounded up the most quirky, interesting and downright weird professions so you can truly say your stay here has been one like no other... 22

DOGA (DOG YOGA) INSTRUCTOR Back in the day, canines were satisfied with just going for ‘walkies’. However, nowadays these uppity mutts expect A-list treatment – well at least their owners expect it for them. If you don’t mind the kind of crowd who paint their dog’s claws pink and call them ‘Princess’, then you could have the right temperament to be a doga instructor. Of course the downward dog comes naturally to these animals, but the

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owners need to get involved too, as they balance their pet while holding various yogic positions. Let’s hope they’ve got a good sense of humour if their four-legged charges haven’t been properly potty-trained. AVERAGE SALARY: $42,000 (£23,600) QUALIFICATIONS: Proficiency in yoga and being able to put up with the barking-mad owners, k9centre.com.au

OPAL MINER Can you think of one of the most vital things that helped form Australia into a nation? No, I’m not referring to zillions of copulating kangaroos, the plethora of intellectually stimulating soap operas, or comedienne Dame Edna’s splendid lavender-coloured hairdo. Rather, it was mining. Indeed, the 1850s gold rush was pivotal in the country’s threefold population increase in a little more than 20 years. Today the whole industry has so successfully expanded and diversified that more than 97% of the planet’s opals are unearthed in Oz. Usually in towns so small – such as Andamooka, Coober Pedy, Lighting Ridge and White Cliffs – you’d find more people wandering the aisles in a London supermarket. The diggers (prospectors), who perform this physically demanding and often hazardous work, use a variety of techniques to extract gemstones from the ground. These encompass dropping a shaft, open cut mining, and terms that might sound more apt in a Thai massage parlour: noodling, rumbling and puddling. AVERAGE SALARY: $103,000 (£58,000) QUALIFICATIONS: You will need a certificate in Metalliferous Mining Operations at TAFE or a traineeship in Metalliferous Mining Operations (Open Cut/Underground). miningemploymentopportunities.com

Beware of deep shafts in opal mining

JACK OR JILLAROO Making use of the classic nursery rhyme, a Jackaroo or a Jillaroo is a man or woman (respectively) employed on a cattle or sheep station to obtain hands-on experience of the skills required to become an owner or overseer. It used to just be for ‘Jacks’, but the fairer sex were called upon to do it during the Second World War, and they were just as good at it. Shocker. Typically, duties consist of managing livestock, inspecting and maintaining homestead equipment, mustering animals on horseback or motorcycle, crop cultivation and hay making. AVERAGE SALARY: $37,700 (£21,100) QUALIFICATIONS: Not essential, but TAFE offer relevant courses. napco.com.au

Spend your days on horseback as a Jackaroo

A JUDGE AT THE NUDE GAMES Observing other humans romping about naked would generally earn you a spell in jail, but at this shindig it’s encouraged. Held annually on South Australia’s Maslin Beach, about 300 individuals with various physiques participate in the Nude Games. Events include the sack race, Frisbee throwing and a best bum competition. In the latter, the adjudicator is searching for ‘shape and firmness’ – tough life, right? Something that might also raise a few cackles is the buffathon, which is the three-legged dash. Let’s just be

Judge who's best at tugging at the Nude Games

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grateful that the third appendage in question isn’t that one. AVERAGE SALARY: We’re afraid this particular position offers no pay, but you get the best eyeful in town. QUALIFICATIONS: A small todger would come in handy, so no one will notice if you enjoy your role a little bit too much... pilwarren.com

LIFEGUARD Do you have a torso more ripped than Michelangelo’s David, or boobs as bouncy as Pamela’s, and hair as golden as the beaches of Australia? Then you’re the perfect fit to be a lifeguard. Even better, you’ve got the fancy accent going on. Get ready to pull. A lot. We will warn you, though, to consider some of the perils of the ocean that regularly have to be dealt with: box jellyfish, saltwater crocodiles, rip currents – even gigantic southern elephant seal turds. That’s right, watching over the coastline isn’t always as glamorous as it is on Titwatch (sorry – Baywatch). AVERAGE SALARY: $49,000 (£27,500) QUALIFICATIONS: You need to participate in the public safety training package - a part of the Australian Qualifications Framework – and have lifesaving industry certificates lifeguards.com.au; sls.com.au

“

One doesn’t want to bruise or crush a gonad

those of bulls. At cattle stations all over the country, tape measures are in hand and the dimensions of plum-sized crown jewels are noted. Throughout this whole procedure, which occurs in a holding pen, it’s best to keep the fingers very steady: one doesn’t want to bruise or crush a gonad and annoy these half-ton-plus mammals. The results are used primarily to gauge how quickly the coming season’s heifers will enter into cycle, be mated and yield a calf, and probably to make human males feel inadequate. AVERAGE SALARY: $50,000 (£28,100) QUALIFICATIONS: You will need accreditation from the Australian Cattle Veterinarians. ava.com.au/cattle

ROADKILL COLLECTOR

”

PEARL DIVING “How many millions of dazzling pearls and gems are at this moment hidden in the deep recesses of the caves?” once enthused Church of Scotland minister, Robert Murray M'Cheyne. One thing’s guaranteed: the dudes doing this profession are certainly going to try to figure it out, as well as surveying any other suitable locations. Over the years, pearls have been as important to fashion as a Michael Jackson codpiece, partly because they come in almost as large an array of colours as you’d find in a tattooist’s ink tray – pink, champagne, green, blue, and more. If natural, as opposed to cultivated by man, these precious stones take up to a decade to develop. In order to collect them, divers use two main methods: farm, where they are weighted down in order to walk along the seabed; and drift, in which they get dragged by a boat through the water. AVERAGE SALARY: $52,000 (£29,250) QUALIFICATIONS: There are various commercial diving courses. Prior learning is also taken into account. tucf.com.au/pearldivers.html

SCROTUM MEASURER There’s no doubt that in this cold world we live in, the thing you need most to get by is balls. In that case, the guys doing this occupation have hit the jackpot. Why? They spend all day surrounded by hefty, moist, hairy sacks. Yep, we’re talking scrotums. But they’re not carrying out this vocation as a new type of kink, or owing to its being part of some sort of medical analysis; the aforementioned testicles are 24

Roo stew for dinner anyone... anyone?

This may not be the most appealing-sounding job, but it’s an important one. Thousands of animals are unfortunately struck down every year trying to cross Australian thoroughfares. If left, the carcasses could be a danger to other vehicles, or might become a health hazard as they rot. Although some might see this as an opportunity for a hearty meal, in the normal world the remains have to be located, cleaned away and hygienically disposed of. And that’s where roadkill collectors, also known more democratically as waste services crew, come in. Suggested requirements for a fulfilling career? A Teflon-like strong stomach, keen sense of smell, and a knack for not slipping over on flat, bloody surfaces. And, hey, at least you get to work outside... AVERAGE SALARY: $48,600 (£26,300) QUALIFICATIONS: You need a Heavy Rigid driving licence, rms.nsw.gov.au

SHARK CAGE OPERATOR If you’re an adrenalin junkie, this is a (seasonal) gig where the excitement never wavers. Reaching up to six metres, and often weighing in at more than 2,000kg, great whites can be seen in their natural habitat just off the shore. There are numerous operators who offer the unique chance of entering a safety cage to get up-close-and-personal with these man-eaters. Picturesque places to set off from include Port Lincoln and the Neptune Islands (both in South Australia), where you can pretend you’re in a scene from Jaws as the fish bangs into the bars of your metal enclosure. And if you are not experienced in the water, don’t worry; scuba diving certification is not a pre-requisite. If you just want to try it out the once (hopefully not because you've been eaten), turn to page 38 for more info. AVERAGE SALARY: $950 (£530) per week QUALIFICATIONS: A minimum competency in Elements of Shipboard Safety rodneyfox.com.au; sharkcagediving.com.au

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DJ Tigerlily

Half-mermaid, half-DJ, the Australian electronic music scene has fallen in love with Tigerlily. TNT caught up with the lovely, fun-loving lady in Sydney... INTERVIEW IAN ARMITAGE

You’ve just finished touring Australia and New Zealand and you did something like 30 shows. How was that? I loved it. It was so amazing; busy but a lot of fun. It was for Onelove Sonic Boom Box, which is an album I’ve just released with Zoolanda under Onelove Recordings. We toured pretty much everywhere, which is awesome. It was nice to travel with someone else and to have company.

Photo: Facebook

You toured Asia with Tiësto last year, were voted Number 12 DJ in the country in Australia’s renowned ITM top 50 DJ Poll, your single ‘Faith’ with 2Less has had more than 45,000 views on YouTube and you signed as an exclusive resident to Sydney night club Pacha for its 2014 calendar. Wow, right? It is pretty crazy. I’ve only been DJing for coming up to three years now. It is ridiculous to think that I’ve already done so much. I think it comes down to hard work, good luck, good management and a little bit of being in the right place at the right time – as well as being able to mix. So how did you get into DJing? I was classically trained in music since the age of four in piano, guitar and trombone until 18, so that gave me a strong base of wanting to do something with music but I didn’t know what. I started to go clubbing, as you do at 18, and my eyes were opened up to this whole new world of dance music. I think part of my dream had always been to be a performer and I fell in love with DJing because you can make, play and mix music while performing at the same time. It actually started thanks to an ex-partner who was a DJ – they taught me some tricks and tips and I practised in my bedroom for two or three months before trying some local gigs. From there I entered DJ Warehouse’s Your Shot competition, which was where the journey really started. I actually came second in that and it opened my eyes to a new world really. People soon started to take notice and from there it has just been stupid, whirlwind-crazy with things happening that I couldn’t even have dreamed of. It has been pretty cool.

DJ Tigerlily: Probably the world’s hottest mermaid

Lots of hard work too? Yeah, a hell of lot, and sacrifice, but it is worth it if you love it – and I really love it. For those that might not have heard of you, describe your sound and look as well... it’s kind of funky mermaid? I play big room progressive house as well as electro house with the big commercial festivaltune vocal-style kind-of music over the top. That is what I like to play. The way I look? Haha. At the moment my hair is a kind of aquamarine/ turquoise. I think my hair is my feature so I hope it never falls out! It has definitely become my trademark and it changes pretty regularly. It has been blue, purple, pink, green, aqua and all different shades of all of the above, but yeah it is fun and I think for me it represents being out there and crazy and having fun with yourself, which I think not many people do. Who has inspired your music? The inspiration question is so difficult because so many different people have inspired me on so many different levels, whether it is the teachers that I learnt piano off when I was young, classical musicians such as Mozart and Beethoven, the pop singers I used to listen to like Aqua and The Spice Girls and now moving into the electro EDM progressive house genres.

Deadmau5 has been a major influence because his music is flawless – he is the guy that made me fall in love with dance music and he was one of the first DJs and producers that I was introduced to. He has a very soft spot in my heart. And I’m really into some of the stuff these young guns are coming out with like Porter Robinson. They are really pushing the boundaries and taking risks and you can tell that they are musically switched on. What’s the plan for the rest of the year? The plan is to keep releasing more music, smash out some mixes and I’ve got some collaborations lined up with Australian and International artists. And yeah, just trying to keep my tour rotation up because I’m actually still at uni full-time at the moment. I’m in my final year and it’s pretty tricky studying and trying to balance it all. I think this year is just lots of music, mixing, collaborations and touring – I have an Asia tour at the end of the year again, which will be really good. That’ll be up until November and when I’m finished with my studies the world will hopefully be my oyster. Who knows what’ll happen...

Tigerlily’s track ‘Faith’ is available to buy on iTunes, as is Sonic Boom Box 2014 djtigerlily.com

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FLASHBACK... 2005

EAT MY GOAL FOOTBALL

This year’s Uefa Champions League is drawing to a close with the final due to be contested this month. Much to everybody’s surprise, last year’s winners Bayern Munich won’t feature having been thrashed in the semi-finals by Spain’s Real Madrid. Spearheaded by the awesome Cristiano Ronaldo, the Madrid giants are bidding to win a 10th CL crown – it’s become an obsession, as the Bale transfer proved. But it won’t be that easy. They face off against current La Liga table toppers and city rivals Altetico Madrid, managed by the brilliant Diego Simeone who masterminded his side’s semi-final win over Chelsea. All eyes will be focused on Lisbon on May 24 (it’ll be early doors on May 25 for us) and there are a number of fascinating story lines: The first final of a European cup competition to feature teams from the same city; both sides are bidding to make history – Real gunning for ‘La Decima’ – the 10th – and Atletico aiming to win their first ever CL crown; Cristiano Ronaldo is returning to Lisbon; the world’s most expensive player, Gareth Bale, is looking to end his first season in Spain on a high; Real haven’t won the competition since Zidane scored a stunner as they beat Leverkusen 2-1 in 2002; Atletico Madrid could complete a sensational league and European double; Diego Simeone is Europe’s most in-demand manager; and it could be Diego Costa’s last game for Atletico (he’s heavily linked with a move to Chelsea). Although Real are clear favourites, Atletico are more than their equals. They beat Real in last May’s Copa del Rey final at the Bernabeu, and claimed 26

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Remember this? Us neither. Before Queensland began their monotonous domination of State of Origin, NSW were allowed to win occasionally. Here’s Andrew Johns and Braith Anasta with the shield last time it was taken south of the border. a victory and a draw from this season’s two La Liga meetings. We mustn’t forget either that by the time the final rolls around, Atletico could have sealed what at the beginning of the season seemed almost impossible – a La Liga title. They need six points from their next two games against Levante and Malaga to make their final-day trip to Barcelona nothing more than a formality/party. But should they fall short in the league title race, it still isn’t game over – they’re motivated by the fact their only previous final came against Bayern Munich in 1974 when legendary striker Luis Aragones appeared to have won the trophy with a goal six minutes from the end of extra time. Bayern levelled seconds before the final whistle however and won the replay 4-0. It’s a painful memory for them and could prove to be an inspiration between now and the final. uefa.com

BIG MONTH FOR... When the FA Cup final is played at Wembley on May 17 there will be two groups – staunch Arsenal fans and everyone else supporting Hull City. This is the ultimate underdog affair with the high-flying north Londoners against the hard-toiling northerners. It’s by far the biggest game in Hull’s 110-year history and if they win, they’ll land a place in the Europa League. This is a side happy to be safe from relegation! Hull had to come from behind to beat League 1 side Sheffield United, but Arsenal needed penalties to beat Wigan, so it’s anyone’s game.

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SPORTROUND-UP HIGHLIGHTS

New era: The last Heineken Cup

Disaster: Stuart Broad shows his anguish at the World T20

PREVIEW

CAN ENGLAND END HORROR STREAK? CHAMPIONS LEAGUE QUARTER FINALS CRICKET The upcoming limited overs series

between England and Sri Lanka could go one of two ways – some sort of reemergence of a team that was bossing it not long ago (nearly won Champions Trophy), or continued abject misery. Either way, it’ll be a rare occasion for England to be hosting an international series with very little to lose. Their embarrassment at the World T20 in Bangladesh will go down in cricket – sporting in fact – folklore,

with their last dismal appearance being a crushing 45-run loss to minnows the Netherlands. One positive they can take though is their only win of the tournament was against Sri Lanka, in their second group match, courtesy almost entirely of a sensational hundred from Alex Hales. Their first opponents of the summer happen to be Sri Lanka, with a T20 on May 20 and five 50-over games starting with The Oval on May 22 and including Lord’s on May 31. The other games are May 28 in Manchester and June 3 in Birmingham before the Tests begin.

Photos:Getty. Words: Michael Gadd and Ian Armitage

LET’S GET TRIVIAL | Maroons with the Blues? When Laurie Daley’s NSW and Mal Meninga’s Queensland line-up for State of Origin game one on May 28 at Brisbane’s Suncorp Stadium, it’ll be the 32nd time the series has been played. It’s supposed to be state against state, mate against mate, but for the past eight years it’s been whipping boys (NSW) against bullies (QLD), with NSW winless since 2005. During that run the Canetoads overtook the Cockroaches in total series wins, which now stand at 18-12. Despite that dominance, Origin is the best representative sporting fixture in Australia – and among the world’s top gladiatorial contests. It’s also probably the highest quality rugby league there is, given Oz’s dominance of the game in the world. Appropriately, Maroons players have won the Wally Lewis medal for player of the series since 2006, with mercurial captain Cameron Smith (right) taking it an impressive three times.

6 PREM LGE: Crystal Palace v Liverpool 8 PREM LGE: Man City v Aston Villa 8 PREM LGE: Sunderland v West Brom 9 ODI CRICK: Scotland v England 10-12 F1 Spanish Grand Prix 11 PREM RUG: Harlequins v Bath Rugby 11 PREM RUG: London Irish v Sale Sharks 11 SUPER LEAGUE: London Broncos v Giants 12 PREM LGE: Cardiff v Chelsea; Fulham v Crystal Palace; Man City v West Ham; Norwich v Arsenal; Sunderland v Swansea; Spurs v Aston Villa; West Brom v Stoke 11-14 CTY CRICK: Middlesex v Lanc. (Lord’s) 17 T20 BLAST: Middlesex v Ess./Suss. (Lord’s) 17-18 SUPER LEAGUE MAGIC W’END 18 FA CUP FINAL: Arsenal v Hull City 17 SUPER LEAGUE: Lon Broncos v Dragons 17&18 PREM RUGBY SEMI-FINALS 18-20 CTY CRICK: M’sex v Sussex (Lord’s) 22 ODI CRICK: England v Sri Lanka (Oval) 24 AMLIN CHALLENGE CUP FINAL 24-26 F1 Monaco Grand Prix 25 HEINEKEN CUP FINAL 25 CHAMPIONS LEAGUE FINAL 25 T20 BLAST: Middlesex v Hamp.(N’wood) 25 ODI CRICK: England v Sri Lanka 26-29 CTY CRICK: M’sex v Sussex (Nthwood) 28 ODI CRICK: England v Sri Lanka 30 T20 BLAST: Surrey v Middlesex (Oval) 31 ODI CRICK: England v Sri Lanka (Lord’s) 31 PREMIERSHIP RUGBY FINAL JUN 1-4 CTY CRICK: Surrey v Worces. (Oval) JUN 3 ODI CRICK: England v Sri Lanka JUN 6 T20 BLAST: Surrey v Essex (Oval)

Rivals: F1 aces Ricciardo and Hamilon TNTDOWNUNDER.COM

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SPORTFOCUS

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From the ashes

The 2013-14 Premier League season has been all about comebacks

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THE ULTIMATE RESURRECTION Those who wrote the Bible would’ve done well to include a resurrection tale as extreme as Luis Suarez, the peckish Liverpool striker who was banned for 10 matches at the end of last season and ended this one with every conceivable decoration. After missing the first six games of the campaign, he’s broken goalscoring records and claimed the PFA Player of the Year Award, a bit harsh on Yaya Toure perhaps, but still not bad for a bloke who was not so long ago desperate to get out of Anfield and who Liverpool captain (bananafooted) Steven Gerrard wasn’t sure would wear the team’s red again. If he ever wears another colour now it’ll be for a fee that makes Gareth Bale’s £85m move to Real Madrid look like chook feed. This was a guy who bit Branislav

Luis Suarez Ivanovic on the arm – a second such charge of his career. He’s also been suspended for eight games when found guilty by the FA of racially abusing Patrice Evra. But the same guy this season lifted his shirt after scoring a second goal against Sunderland to show a vest adorned with ‘Welcome Benja’ in honour of his new baby, and based his Hulk celebration on his daughter’s fave cartoon. Aw, sweet. In the absence of Gerrard he was even handed the captain’s armband. And who did Evra vote for as PFA Player of the Year? Yep, remarkable.

Words: Michael Gadd. Photos: Getty

A sleeping giant raised from the ashes this Premier League season as Liverpool defied the apparent law that money rules the sport. In the closing stages of the 201314 season the Reds were in with a shot of claiming the title for the first time since 1989-90, when John Barnes and Ian Rush were big-time, but a home defeat to Chelsea and a draw with Crystal Palace saw their dreams go up in smoke. From the ‘70s to the ‘90s they won for fun – from 1972-73 to 1990-91 they won 11 division one titles and came second seven times. One year spare? Oh, that was 1980-81 when they won the Champions League. Despite falling short Rodgers’ side can be proud of their second placed finish, meaning a Champions League return is assured. While it is probably the start of a Man City dynasty, this year we had a chance to root for the underdog.

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SPORTFOCUS

Tony Pulis at Crystal Palace

Leicester celebrate promotion

WHO’S THE BOSS? NO SERIOUSLY...

UPS AND DOWNS...

A number of EPL clubs gave a boss the flick this season starting with Paolo Di Canio in September. Gus Poyet, who took over from him at Sunderland, kept the Black Cats up but is likely to leave in the summer. Fulham dumped Martin Jol in December and brought in Rene Meulensteen, but only for 75 days, before replacing him with Felix Magath who failed to keep them in the top flight. Another former Fulham boss, Mark Hughes, took Stoke into to top half of the table while the man he replaced, Tony Pulis (pictured), guided Crystal Palace – who axed Ian Holloway in October – to 11th place. Tottenham’s Tim Sherwood is likely to get the chop in the close season as are West Brom’s Pepe Mel and Villa’s Paul Lambert and it isn’t yet clear who’ll replace David Moyes.

ONE CLUB’S TRASH... Club finances really do mean one manager’s trash is another’s treasure, and this year some players left to fester on the bench flourished when picked up from the dump. After struggling with the pre-season sales, David Moyes finally got a big Martinez and Lakaku one, or Juan. Mata that is, the Spanish maestro who came too late to save United or Moyes’ job, but he looks good in red. Spurs couldn’t fit Lewis Holtby into their system but will make a mint on his £1.5m pricetag should they sell after his impressive work at Fulham. Mathieu Flamini might be the buy of the season, the former Arsenal hard man let go to AC Milan and brought back, with every transaction a free transfer. They fell off the top of the pile when he was out injured. Roberto Martinez takes the cake though with Romelu Lukaku and Gareth Barry’s loan deals from Chelsea and Man City. Their class saw Everton enjoy a good season. Nuff said.

The end of the Premier League, Championship and League One and Two seasons aren’t all about winners; the race for those being promoted, relegated and staying put is brilliant. The Premier League is simple – the relegated bottom three of Norwich, Cardiff and Fulhum are all Championship-bound. At the other, sometimes less interesting end, City were crowned champions with Liverpool, Chelsea and fourth-placed Arsenal taking the Champions League spots, while Everton and Tottenham qualified for the Europa League. The Championship’s top two (Leicester and Burnley) are in the Premier League and the final promotion place will go to the winner of the playoffs - which at time of press will be either Derby, QPR or Wigan. Leagues within leagues. Enjoy.

YOU DON’T KNOW WHAT YOU’RE DOING! In honour of a fan-favourite chant, especially at Old Trafford and White Hart Lane where the bosses haven’t exactly proven their competence with the talent at their disposal, we Ricky van Wolfswinkel pay tribute to those operating outside their brief. Tim Sherwood’s defenders at Spurs don’t just concede goals they give them away with more errors leading to goals than any team in Europe’s top five leagues. Fulham’s defenders too are shockers, conceding 85 goals in 38 matches, 11 more than second-worse Cardiff. Norwich’s big signing Ricky van Wolfswinkel (pictured) was bought to score goals for £8.5m but finished the season with just one to his name as his side were relegated. That’s the same as Asmir Begovic, Stoke’s keeper who scored the quickest goal of the season after 13 seconds against Southampton. Cardiff owner Vincent Tan wins this one though, sacking his head of recruitment Iain Moody and replacing him with his son’s mate who’d been painting at the club. Moody’s done wonders at Palace since. TNTDOWNUNDER.COM

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TRAVEL LATE DEALS | TRAVEL DIARY | HOLIDAY SNAPS | TRAVEL LISTINGS

IMAGE OF THE MONTH Photos: Getty, Thinkstock

PRINCE CHARMING Will and Kateâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s tour of Australia and New Zealand got us talking but it was little Prince George who stole our hearts when he met his first bilby.

INSIDE

WET ADVENTURES /38

TOP 10 /46

AIRLIE BEACH /40

There are few better ways to spend your time in the Southern Hemisphere than getting wet. These are the best spots...

Australia is one mo-fo of an island, but did you know that it is surrounded by more than 8,000 smaller ones? Here are the best...

Use the fun and lively Airlie Beach as your base for exploring the amazing Whitsunday Islands by boat and plane...

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TRAVELDIARY

ASK THE EXPERT

@tnt_downunder

Down and dirty: Make the most of Boryeong’s famous mud mayhem

Paul Melinis from Trafalgar’s Be My Guest guided holidays suggests the best dining experience tours: A Mexican fiesta: On the eight-day Treasures of Yucatan guided holiday you’ll be welcomed into the Chaya Maya Mansion kitchen by legendary local Chef Don Miguel, and greeted with a Margarita de Chaya cocktail before rolling up your sleeves and learning how to make traditional Mexican dishes. Take home a few tips to recreate these spicy and flavoursome dishes in your own kitchen. From $2,251pp excl flights. Bigger is better in the Deep South: The southern states of America offer many a foodie occasion. Join the 10-day Tastes & Sounds of the South At Leisure guided holiday to learn how America’s most famous whiskey, Jack Daniels, is created, and discover the secrets of Creole cooking inspired by French, Spanish and Native American influences during an interactive class in New Orleans. From $3,575pp excl flights. Wasabi time: Let the flavours linger beyond the last bite at a traditional Japanese Ryokan where you’ll learn about local customs and be invited to join the land lady and her daughter for a kaiseki lunch of regional cuisine. Sample Japanese sake and witness the cultivation of wasabi at a local farm. The nine-day Splendours of Japan guided holiday costs from $5,313 per person excl flights. trafalgar.com

BORYEONG MUD FESTIVAL South Korea Every year, thousands flock to bask in the mineral-rich mud of the usually peaceful town of Boryeong. Slather yourself in the now 19-25 world-famous mud and revel in the dirt for an experience like no other. It’s not just a week of rolling around in mud, though, with international hip-hop and pop stars, giant raves, fireworks and parades not to be missed. JUL

WHERE: Boryeong, South Korea WHY GO: Go to test the renowned cosmetic benefits of Boryeong mud, ignite your fighting side with a traditional mud wrestle or simply to soak in the sights (as well as the soil) at this unique and filthy festival.

HEIVA FESTIVAL

TAHITI

The Heiva festival brings people together from all 3-19 over Polynesia to celebrate ancient cultural music, dance, sports and singing. Banned until the late 19th century, watch entrancing forbidden dances and ‘secret’ songs. A vibrant celebration of Polynesian culture in stunning, sunny Tahiti. JUL

WHAT ELSE? Take some time to rinse off and visit the stunning scenery Boryeong is known for. Beautiful Daecheon Beach and Oseo Mountain are sightseeing hotspots. HOW MUCH: Free boryeongmudfestival.com

DARWIN FESTIVAL DARWIN, AUSTRALIA

After the destruction of the city from a cyclone in 1974, 7-24 Darwin rose again and now celebrates the revival with music, film, comedy and theatre. AUG

darwinfestival.org.au

VEGETARIAN FESTIVAL PHUKET, THAILAND

tahiti-tourisme.com/discover/heiva-tahiti.asp

INDIA

Throughout India, houses vividly decorated with 7-14 are flower petals and the streets are filled with dancing, sports, games and feasts to honour this ancient harvest festival. onamfestival.org SEP

Foodies may be shocked discover this event 5-13 to isn’t as peaceful as it sounds. True to Taoist tradition, this festival honours the Emporor Gods by carrying out extreme, mindbending and sometimes gruesome physical acts. The parades, psychics and musicians are a tourist favourite. OCT

phuketvegetarian.com

Photos: supplied. Words: Charlotte Lennon

ONAM FESTIVAL

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HOTSHOTS

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WINNER

WINNER ECHO VALLEY RANCH & SPA IN CLINTON, BC, CANADA Kristy Fairchild 31 TELL US MORE The colours coming into autumn are just amazing. It really is a magnificent time of year.

RUNNER-UP RUNNER-UP THE OLD MOSTAR BRIDGE IN BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA Anna Woolaston, 26 TELL US MORE I really loved this view point. It gave a completely different and beautiful perspective of the bridge compared with the view from ground level.

WANT TO SEE YOUR TRAVEL SHOTS IN PRINT? Send high-res (300 dpi) jpegs with name, age, nationality and a description to: lisa.ferron@tntmagazine.com. Photos are judged by the TNT team at their own discretion. Photos will also be placed on TNTâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Facebook page. For terms and conditions, see tntdownunder.com.

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WIN

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HOW TO ENTER

Go to tntdownunder.com and click on the WIN page. See webpage for terms and conditions. Winners will be selected at random.

Total prizes worth over

A ,600 CAGE DIVE IN SOUTH AFRICA $3SHARK TNT and Shark Cage Diving KZN have teamed up to give one lucky reader and three of their friends a cage dive with sharks, which will take place from Rocky Bay, Park Rynie, South Africa. The group will get together at 7am in the morning at the launch site, where you will be briefed about the surf and general information. Once this is done, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll launch off and head to the dive site, which is an 8km ride with lovely views of the coastline. The team will do a talk on sharks and marine life, show you the shark nets, and undertake surface viewing of sharks from the boat. The team will do another briefing on the cage dive and get the sharks to come around

the boat. There are normally anything from five-20 sharks on a dive. The trip lasts about two-and-a-half hours. To win this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, enter at tntmagazine. com/competitions sharkcagedivingkzn.com

worth over

$1000

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TRAVELREVIEW

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Party with King Julian’s rellies

BACK TO BASICS MADAGASCAR

Do you like to ‘move it move it’? Then get stuck into nature on this tropical tour of Madagascar. (If you have a hat with a gecko on it, that’s an added bonus.) We’re sorry to say you may not meet King Julian in person, but you will travel by houseboat to Nosy Be, a small island off the northern coast of the country known as being one of the most biodiverse places on earth. Sleep in rustic, traditional huts and see lemurs, mangroves, coral reefs, ylang-ylang plantations and turtles. Get back to basics and into the wilderness to experience a timeless and secluded island like nowhere else on Earth. Prices start at $746 for six nights. madagascarislandsafaris.co.za

TAKE A WALK ON THE WILD SIDE INDONESIA

Head to the jungle (the mighty jungle) and see some of the most diverse wildlife on Earth in Borneo Adventure’s rivers, rainforests and beaches tour. Step into an authentic Indonesian way of life by shopping at bustling local markets full of tropical fruit, fresh fish and haggling stall holders. Learn to fish in a traditional longboat and explore secluded beaches and dense jungles, teaming with noisy wildlife and rare plants. Highlights of this trip include swimming in the Enseluai waterfall and hanging out with turtles, monkeys and Bornean bearded pigs (who look exactly like their name suggests). Borneo Adventure run this eight-day trip for $1,210. borneoadventure.com 36

Local Living: Get out of the rat race and become a part of the Masai people’s traditional dances, rituals and ceremonies as well as learning how to hunt, craft, camp and cook with them in a life-changing tribal experience. The Kenyan adventure starts at $710 per person and is part of the new Local Living tours from gadventures.co.uk

TIBET YOUR BOTTOM DOLLAR YOU’LL LOVE IT TIBET

Feeling stressed? Find your inner peace in the haven of the Himalayas on this adventurous new tour. Pioneers in off-the-beaten-track travel, Rickshaw Travel has recently added this tranquil spot to its tour portfolio. Remote, unspoilt and steeped in stunning mountainous scenery, Tibet is perfect for holiday-makers seeking an adrenaline rush among the high-altitude Himalayan treks in the land known as ‘the rooftop of the world’. Those seeking a more serene experience will also, of course, be at one with this famously spiritual Buddhist destination. This 10-day tour also includes a trip to neighbouring Nepal and a hike to Everest base camp. rickshawtravel.com.au

SING GOODBYE TO BORING STOPOVERS SINGAPORE

Stopovers, we’ve all done ’em. But rather than spend a few dull hours at the airport, why not take a break and have an adventure instead? Travellers with a brief stopover in Singapore can now get under the skin of the city and experience it ‘like a local’ in just a few hours, thanks to Urban Adventures. On its new Chinatown Food Adventure (3.5 hours, $56), you can tuck into breakfast at Singapore’s largest hawker centre, experiencing mouthwatering specialties such as chwee kueh (water rice cake) and chee cheong fun (rice noodle rolls). You’ll also visit the city’s oldest Chinese temple, last remaining wells and the landing place of early immigrants,

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MAD WORLD STOLEN ART FOUND IN OAP’S KITCHEN ITALY

A painting by Gauguin, stolen in Britain in 1970, has turned up in the kitchen of a retired factory worker in Sicily, according to Italian police. The two works of art by French post-impressionist Gauguin were stolen from a British art collector’s home in 1970. A retired factory worker paid the equivalent of £19 for the paintings and hung them in his home in Sicily for 40 years. Today the paintings are expected to sell for £8.5million. Oh my Gauguin.

DEAD RATS USED AS CURRENCY AT UNIVERSITY

NEW ZEALAND

A true escape: Koh Rong Samloem, Cambodia before savouring a delicious lunch. That beats filling up on aeroplane food any day. urbanadventures.com

GET AWAY FROM IT ALL ON A DESERT ISLAND

Hopefully they won’t make you carry all this on your bike tour

CAMBODIA

Photos: Thinkstock and Getty

You could hear a pin drop on this tranquil island. Well, unless it’s dropped in its golden sand, that is. The secluded and little-known Koh Rong Samloem island lies off the Cambodian coastline and is marooned by sparkling seas. You’ll feel as isolated from the hustle and bustle as Robinson Crusoe on this deserted dream island. The environmentally friendly resort is made up of rustic beach bungalows, each with a magnificent ocean view. With no official roads on the island, guests are encouraged to explore the beaches, mountains, waterfalls and streams by boat or on foot. Prices start at $300 with Rickshaw Travel. rickshawtravel.com.au

GOOD MORNING BICYCLE TOUR! VIETNAM

Swap sofa for saddle and get on your bike for the new two-wheeled tour from Exodus.

New Zealand students have launched an unusual campaign in a bid to rid themselves of the rat infestation plaguing their campus. Fed up of being overrun by rodents, the science society of Victoria University came up with the idea to provide a free drink to anyone presenting a dead rat at the university bar. Science society president, Jonathan Musther says that, although lots of people are in it for the free drinks, he hopes his fellow students will get involved for the sake of the environment and a passion for native flora and fauna. Yeah, good luck with that.

MISSING DOG FOUND 1,000 MILES FROM TEXAS HOME

USA There’s no better way to see Vietnam in all its glory than by bike. Take the preferred local mode of transport through back streets of bustling cities, serene golden beaches, traditional fishing villages and mango plantations. For $1,890 this cycling tour includes 11 nights in hotels, one night on a boat and one night on a train as well as most meals. After some strenuous cycling you’ll need to cool off, so jump into the glittering blue waters of Ha Long Bay. exodus.co.uk/vietnam-holidays/cycling

Corbin the Daschund dug a hole under his garden fence in Texas and ended up in Ohio. Owner Mike Saiz says the story “sounds almost too good to be true” and that he and his wife are baffled as to how Corbin made the thousand mile trek. Staff at an Ohio animal shelter located the owners by using a microchip providing them with Corbin’s doggy data.

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TOPFIVE

WET ADVENTURES

TOP FIVE

WET ADVENTURES

Water. Isn’t it great? Not only is it essential to survival, it’s bloody good fun too. Whether it’s ocean rafting, cage diving with sharks, riding a monster wave or jumping down a great big water-filled hole, there is plenty of water-based fun to be had on this wonderful blue planet of ours – after all about 75% of the surface is covered in the stuff. With that in mind, here are some of the best water-based adventures around...

1. SWIM WITH THE FISHES Is bungee jumping beginning to bore you? Skydiving leaving you high and dry? Then why not try swimming with sharks? It’s an adrenaline rush like no other and an ever-popular holiday past time. The main cage diving spots include South Australia’s Eyre Peninsula and California’s Farallon Islands, but it is South Africa’s Shark Alley that is one of the best places in the world to get close to these stunning creatures in their natural environment. 38

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A two-hour drive from Cape Town to the small fishing village Gansbaai, Shark Alley is a deep channel between Dyer and Geyser islands where great whites come to munch on the islands’ 40,000 fur seal inhabitants. As well as cage diving, most companies offer tours to watch breaching (sharks jumping out of the water), predation (sharks hunting seals) and surface viewing, where you can see the magnificent beasts from the comfort of the boat if you’re too chicken to get into a cage and see Jaws. The peak season runs from April to October, when sharks are particularly active in their feeding behaviour and so are more likely to be spotted. Dolphin and whale swims, manatee hugging and all manner of other fishy tours are becoming extremely popular the world over too, and why not? Not only is it the thrill of a lifetime, but you’ll also come away with a newfound respect for some of nature’s finest work. white-shark-diving.com

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SCUBA DIVING

WAITOMO’S BLACK HOLES

There are many amazing dives all over the world. Barracuda Point in Malaysia, the USS Spiegel Grove shipwreck in Florida and several great dives in Thailand... but the one that stands out is, of course, the Great Barrier Reef. Our favourite dive is Cod Hole on the Ribbon Reefs because of the giant, well, cod. They’re so friendly that they come right up to your face. And they won’t eat you, which is a bonus.

Wet adventures aren’t all about sun and sea. You could dive into Waitomo Caves in New Zealand, which are full of waterfalls and pools. The Legendary Black Water Rafting Company are the ones to go with: what began as a special treat for a brave few has developed into a spectacular tourism attraction that gives visitors the chance to abseil, weave, jump, climb, and float through a subterranean wonderland.

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4 Words: Ian Armitage. Photos: Getty, Thinkstock, South Australia Tourism and Ocean Rafting.

WET ADVENTURES

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TOPFIVE MY EXPERIENCE

STUART SHIRRA ON SHARK CAGE DIVING WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO TRY OUT THIS EXPERIENCE?

Ever since seeing Jaws as a child I was fascinated by sharks, especially the Great White, and the idea of being in the water with them went straight to the top of my ‘bucket list’. It involved setting off early from Cape Town and heading to Gansbaai, having a bit of a briefing and breakfast at the base station, and then we boarded the boat and bounced our way out (take your sea sickness pills). It didn’t take long for the sharks to turn up – although it was technically the off-season, no one told them and we saw 10 sharks that day! WHAT WAS THE BEST BIT?

WINDSURFING/SURFING

SEA RAFTING

Mauritius is one of windsurfing’s best-kept secrets. It has more than 300 days of wind per year and draws in enthusiasts the world over, especially during winter – the best time to go. South Africa is another crowd pleaser. If you crave waves not wind, you are spoilt for choice. For gnarly surf head to either Hawaii’s Honolua Bay, Maverick’s in California or Supertubes in South Africa.

If you prefer to stay above water and relatively dry, but you still want the feel of the fresh ocean air in your hair, then sea rafting is a good option. With Ocean Rafting you’ll speed around the stunning Whitsundays, stopping off for talks about the flora and fauna. It is the only tour operator to have direct access to the stunning and iconic Hill Inlet beach and special snorkel sites at Hook Island and Border Island.

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The whole experience is so incredible, but the first time you see the shadowy outline below the surface takes your breath away. WHAT WAS THE LASTING IMPRESSION?

The power of them. When they swim past you in the cage you can feel the pulses from the water hitting you. They’re the alphas in that environment... white-shark-diving.com

oceanrafting.com.au

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OZTRIP

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Everything’s gonna be Airlie Using Airlie Beach as her base, Alex Harmon explores the Whitsundays by plane, ocean raft, and simply by sinking her toes in the sand... When Oprah was in Australia, she hovered in a helicopter over the Heart Reef in the Whitsundays, hailing it, in her booming voice, as “damn cool!”. At that precise moment, the blue-green coral formation that symbolises eternal love became synonymous across the world with paradise. The problem is now the whole world – admittedly including me – wants a piece of this iconic far north Queensland coral reef. “We get people wanting to land on the reef and walk on it,” says our private charter pilot. Of course this is illegal, as the reef is now protected as part of the Great Barrier Reef World Heritage Area. Later that day a Whitsunday local reiterates, “I’ve seen footage from the ’80s of couples sipping champagne as they walk over the heart reef – it’s truly bizarre. ” But why would you want to destroy this amorous cluster of coral, when the best way to see it, and indeed the rest of the Whitsundays, is from above? That’s exactly what we do that day on a scenic flight with GSL Aviation. The one-hour air journey from Shute Harbour has you up in the sky and, within minutes, you’re cruising along the 74 island wonders, of which only seven are developed. Up here you can appreciate just how remote the Whitsunday Islands are. The azure-blue waters and tree-lined islands look like they belong in the Maldives, but here they are even more untouched. Hamilton is the most developed island and the high-rise hotels look out of place – they truly are eyesores. I wonder if in another 100 years the other islands will follow suit. Hopefully not: the twinkle in the Whitsundays’ eye is its exclusivity. We glide over Whitsunday Island, which is the largest of the group but completely uninhabited, and take in the wonder of Whitehaven Beach – one of the world’s most famous beaches. The white silica sand (said to be the whitest in the world) sparkles in the sunshine and the turquoise water looks as smooth as glass. Our jaws drop and our cameras go into overdrive. But this is just a teaser: it’s tomorrow when we will walk onto this piece of heaven. As we whizz through the 10km of spectacular reef, our pilot tells us to look out for the blue lagoon – because that’s where we will see the Heart Reef. Endorphins run high in the cabin and cameras are perched on the window panes in

tense preparation. Then we see it – for several seconds only. “This isn’t a helicopter,” says our pilot. “I know you want me to hover over it, but I can’t!”. Alas, just a few seconds has to suffice. And while the postcards, tea-towels, tourism commercials and Oprah’s Ultimate Australian Adventure might make you think you know the reef – it’s not until you see it with your own eyes that you can truly fall in love with it. Ocean rafting The next day we get to see the magic up close and personal. The quickest way to get from Airlie Beach and onto the Whitsundays is on a tour with Ocean Rafting. These guys will pick you up in one of their bright yellow inflatable boats and zip you out to the islands in around an hour. (The other cruise ships take a slow and steady two hours.) We take off our shoes and pile into the ex-rescue craft with a bunch of excited travellers from around the world.

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Dive in with Ocean Safari

We’re told to hang on tight as we launch off towards the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park. If you love the thrill of jetboating, then you’re getting your money’s worth with this company. The super-fast craft gets air as we catapult over the waves and bounce off the ocean’s surface. This isn’t for the faint-hearted, so make sure you’ve got your sea legs and you’re holding on tight. Our first stop on the day trip is Mantaray Bay for a spot of snorkelling. We slip into our full body stinger suits (it’s the end of the season but no one is taking any chances with the venomous jelly fish) and jump into the water, which is a tepid bath-like 25°C. There are around 1,600 species of fish in the Whitsundays, meaning everyone is going to come back with unique tales of the underwater life. As for me, I see electric blue parrot fish, swordfish and a whole lot of fish that I couldn’t even attempt to identify. I swear I see a fish with a leopard print coat, like someone’s Russian grandmother at the pub – but no one else seems to know what I’m talking about. Some of the coral I hover above is mesmerising, like gazing into a living piece of art. The coral, quite literally, breathes and exhales, and I could stare at it for hours. Whitehaven Beach The crowning jewel in the Whitsundays has to be Whitehaven Beach, and we are drawn to this stretch of coastline like diamond thieves in the night. Especially as we make our way onto land and reach the top of Tongue Point lookout to see it sparkling in the distance. We also see Hill Inlet, which creates an ocean mosaic of swirling 42

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“

I see a fish with a leopard print coat, like someone’s Russian grandmother at the pub

”

Magnums, is the backpacker’s hangout of choice blues and whites like an artist’s paint palette. From here it’s a quick cruise over to Whitehaven Beach where we anchor the raft and step onto the 98% pure silica sand. Despite the hot sun, there are no scorched feet as one of the unique properties about silica sand is that it doesn’t retain heat. We perch ourselves on the beach and wait for our lunch to be prepared on the boat. After lunch it’s back into the stinger suits (look, it saves on sunscreen) and we lunge ourselves into the ocean for a refreshing dip. The ocean is so salty that I float to the surface, the dense water holding my body afloat like a magic carpet. You don’t have to worry about waves, currents or droves of people. As I lie in the ocean I come to the realisation that, with cool sand and gentle waters that carry you up, the Whitsundays is a place that bends over backwards to accommodate you. Whether you’re Oprah, or just a simple backpacker like me. Where to eat The balmy tropical weather is perfect for light snacking, and there’s no better place to do this than at Denman Cellars. This bottle shop turned tapas joint not only serves the freshest plates of cuisine overlooking Airlie Beach Marina, they also have more than 1,200 beers on their stock list. “Although we can only handle 700 at any given time,” says the barman. Share a few plates of tapas and ask the knowledgeable staff to give you some beer tips. Capers on the Esplanade is attached to the Airlie Beach Hotel and dishes up modern Australian cuisine. Start with a cocktail in the bar and progressively make your way through TNTDOWNUNDER.COM

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the list as you retire onto the al-fresco tables. The meals are huge, fresh and they even have their own brand of wine. Where to drink Magnums is the backpacker hang out of choice. In the centre of town, it lures people of all nationalities keen to take advantage of cheap jugs of beer, sports on the big screen, goldfish racing (your guess is as good as mine) and live music. Shenanigans is the bar where every night feels like a Friday and the live music is epic. If you’re not dancing and singing to ‘I Would Walk 500 Miles’ by the end of the night, then you’ve probably passed out having had too much to drink. This of course, is entirely acceptable too. Where to stay Rest your weary head in Magnums tropical rainforest accommodation in either dorms, camp spots or private cabins. Cheap and cheerful, plus you have access to the best backpacker bar in town. magnums.com.au For something a bit more upmarket but won’t break the bank, the Airlie Beach Hotel has clean and spacious rooms with views of the Coral Sea coastline. This four-star hotel is close to all the action, without being too close – i.e. you wont need earplugs. airliebeachhotel.com.au/accommodation DAMAGE AND DETAILS One-hour scenic flights with GSL Aviation costs $199 whitsundayscenicflights.com.au Full day tour with Ocean Rafting costs $134 oceanrafting.com.au TigerAir flies direct to the Whitsundays from Sydney, standard fares start at $104.95 tigerair.com

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3 Day 2 Night Adventure Sailing Trips offers guests looking for a smaller group size the opportunity to experience the Whitsundays. This tour will visit Whitehaven Beach, along with two or three snorkeling experiences on the fringing coral reefs which extend right from the edge of the islands and we have the best prices!

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a local Whitsundays government accredited operator. Our license is 3001478 and we have been proudly caring for our visitors for almost 20 years. Head to our facebook page (airliebeach.com) for a chance to WIN A TRIP FOR 2 to Whitehaven Beach aboard the sensational Camira.

Kayak over the fringing coral reefs and explore tropical islands. For beginners to experienced we provide all snorkel gear including fruit and cheese platter.

FREE internet with all bookings - FREE bag storage - FREE upgrades to private double cabins on some boats For more recommendations and discount prices of overnight sailing adventures www.sailingwhitsundays.com 259 Shute Harbour Rd, Top end of main street in Airlie, next door to Hog’s Breath Cafe

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TOPTEN

AUSTRALIA ISLANDS

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TOP 10

ISLANDS IN AUSTRALIA

Australia is one mo-fo of an island, but did you know that it is surrounded by more than 8,000 smaller ones? Here are 10 of the best...

ROTTNEST ISLAND A short ferry ride from Perth, Rotto, as it’s called by locals, is home to pictureperfect beaches and turquoise waters. Rotto is much loved by Aussies: hundreds of thousands of people visit every year for snorkelling, swimming and a hefty dose of downtime. With 63 beaches it is easy to see why – finding a secluded spot isn’t exactly hard. That’s not to say you’ll never be swamped by people, it depends where you go – if you want isolation, the west end of the island is less visited by tourists – but you can expect beauty and nature wherever you go. The best way to get around is by bicycle because motorised traffic is all but non-existent (private vehicles are banned). And it’ll go a lot like this: start at the island’s main hub Thomson Bay. Cycle for a bit. Find an irresistible 46

beach. Snorkel. Laze about. Feel happy. Cycle a bit more. Find another irresistible beach. Snorkel. Laze about. Feel happy. Cycle a bit further. Find an even more irresistible beach. Snorkel. Laze about. Feel happy. First stop for most visitors is the Parker Point/Salmon Bay area, which is a popular spot with families and snorkellers, although a little further along, Little Salmon tempts many into dipping in. Those aren’t the only places: Rotto’s surrounding reefs are littered with shipwrecks which are popular with divers, snorkellers, surfers and fishing types. And of course fish themselves. If cycling sounds a bit too much like exercise, there is a jump-on, jump-off bus service that runs clockwise around the island. The best bit? Due to the exclusion of feral pests, this is one of the few areas in the world where the cute and mainly nocturnal quokka (a catsized kangaroo/rat/beaver type thing, pictured) can be found. rottnestisland.com

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XXXX ISLAND

PHILLIP ISLAND

Formerly known as Pumpkin Island this is just a baby, born when Lion, which owns the XXXX Gold brand, leased the 15-acre property, acquired naming rights and started holding competitions for people to visit. The ‘mates only island’ is now the ultimate beer paradise for lucky winners and three buddies, with “everything you could hope for” given free during your stay. Bonza.

Victoria’s Phillip Island is best known for two reasons: its racetrack that plays host to a leg of the international MotoGP every year, and the little penguin parade. While the MotoGP is a big draw, most people come for its bountiful beaches and, of course, the penguins – the daily parade is an adorable sight, watching them waddle up the sand of Summerland Beach to their roost.

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Words: Ian Armitage. Photos: Getty, Thinkstock, XXXX Island

AUSTRALIA ISLANDS

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THE WHITSUNDAYS

FRASER ISLAND

Okay, we’ve cheated a bit here – we couldn’t choose one island above the others, so we’ve included all 74. Famous for Whitheaven Beach (on Whitsunday Island), most of the islands are sandy with tropical rainforest and several accommodation options, ranging from five-star resorts to basic camp grounds. We’ve little space here, so turn to p38 for the lowdown on Airlie, one of the favourites.

If it was not up against such steep competition, the unique Fraser Island would for sure be further up the list. Fifth place doesn’t seem to do this extraordinary island justice, what with it being the world’s largest sand island, with subtropical rainforests stubbornly thriving in a seemingly infertile environment. Fraser is also home to more than 40 freshwater dune lakes – over half the world’s known total – and dingos. fraserisland.net

tourismwhitsundays.com.au

TOPTEN MY EXPERIENCE

JUSTIN STEINLAUF EXPLORES THE WHITSUNDAYS WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO TRY OUT THIS EXPERIENCE? Having heard countless awesome stories from my mates that have visited the beautiful Whitsunday Islands, I thought it was about time that I took advantage of the cheap flights on offer from Tiger Airways and get myself up to the crystal blue waters of the Whitsundays! WHAT DID IT INVOLVE? On the first day I went straight from the runway to Abel Point Marina at Airlie Beach for a four-hour Jet Ski adventure. On day two I boarded a 52ft former Sydney to Hobart racing boat called Iceberg. Despite never being on a proper sailing boat before I was able to assist Sophia the deckhand to set sail. With no more than 12 passengers on board, you really get the space to take it all in and be part of the sailing experience and relax. The awesome thing about a two full-day tour is that you still fit a lot in, snorkelling three of the best island reefs and exploring the postcard Whitehaven Beach. airliebeach.com

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TOPTEN

AUSTRALIA ISLANDS

MAGNETIC ISLAND

KING ISLAND

Despite not actually being magnetic, unlike the island in the TV series Lost (we still don’t know what the polar bear was about), Maggie, as we like to call her, is absolutely great – party prospects married with park-your-arse and chillax opportunities. There’s superlative scenery, beaches, wildlife and activities such as diving and snorkelling. Maggie has great wildlife experiences too, with koalas living in the wild and cute little rock wallabies. Base Hostel throws a pretty fullon Full Moon party on Magnetic Island every month and it’s worth being there just for that.

This small island off the north of Tasmania produces some of the best brie and soft cheeses in Australia and, being anchored in the middle of the Bass Strait, it also has some amazing surf. It’s an island of long, empty beaches and clean, fresh air, offshore reefs, rocky coasts, lighthouses, more than 70 shipwreck sites, award-winning dairy, succulent seafood and some of the world’s best beef (a large percentage of Tasmania’s herd is on the island). Flat, fertile and uncomplicated, we love it here. It is not a huge place, but leaves a lasting impression.

Photos: Cockatoo Island, Thinkstock, Facebook

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kingisland.org.au

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BRUNY ISLAND

COCKATOO ISLAND

THE OTHERS

This is the sort of place you’d go to hide away and write a novel. It’s an hour from Hobart, but it really does feel like you’re at the end of the world and many miles away from civilisation. Windswept, wild and beautiful, Bruny is geologically two islands – North and South Bruny – connected by a long, narrow sandy isthmus called The Neck.

If you’ve been to Sydney you’ll know that Cockatoo Island is the largest island in Sydney Harbour and a cracking place to visit. Its prisons were added to UNESCO’s World Heritage list in 2010 along with 10 other Australian convict sites. They were recognised as the best surviving examples of large-scale convict transportation and colonial expansion. Worth a look.

Don’t worry Game of Thrones fans, we don’t mean them – we mean the islands we haven’t got room for, such as Tangalooma, Lord Howe, Kangaroo and the Tiwis Islands. We also want to squeeze in Heron Island (which has turtles), Lady Elliot (great diving), Lady Musgrave Island (with a massive enclosed lagoon), Fitzroy Island and the Indian Ocean’s Cocos Island. Ah, we feel better now.

brunyisland.net

cockatooisland.gov.au

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ISLANDS, ACTIVITIES & ACCOMMODATION COMBOS Book awesome combos from 3 - 6 days. A choice of combos with self-catering accommodation, transfers, must窶電o activities, Great Barrier Reef Adventures, Reefsleep under the stars, sailing to Whitehaven Beach and Island experiences!

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OZLISTINGS TRAVEL AGENTS Adventure Travel Bugs 07 3236 3266, adventuretravelbugs.com

Tours in Tasmania Tours around Tasmania 1800 777 103, tourstascom.au Bunyip Tours Tours around Victoria 1300 286 947, bunyiptours.com

Backpackers World Travel 1800 997 325 backpackersworld.com Peter Pans Adventure Travel 1800 669 424, peterpans.com.au Travellers Contact Point 1800 647 640, travellers.com.au Tribal Adventure Travel 1800 984 484, tribaltravel.com.au

Cool Dingos Fraser Island Tours 1800 072 555, cooldingotour.com Explore Whitsundays Whitsundays packages 1800 675 790, explorewhitsundays.com Groovy Grape Getaways Tours linking Adelaide, Alice Springs & Melbourne 1800 661 177, groovygrape.com.au

YHA Travel 02 9261 111, yha.com.au

TOUR FIRMS

Heading Bush Adelaide to Alice Springs outback tours 1800 639 933, headingbush.com

follow us on Whitsundays Sailing Adventures Whitsundays sailing 07 4940 2007 WhitsundaysSailingAdventures. com.au Mojosurf Sydney to Byron surfing tours 1800 113 044, mojosurf.com Nullarbor Traveller Tours from Adelaide and Perth 1800 816 858, the-traveller.com.au

Wilderness 4WD Adventures Top end tours 1800 808 288, wildernessadventures.com.au Wildlife Tours Tours around Victoria 1300 661 730, wildlifetours.com.au

RENTAL FIRMS Apollo Motorhomes 1800 777 779, apollocamper.com

Ocean Rafting Whitsundays tours 07 4946 6848, oceanrafting.com

Mighty Cars and Campers (Formerly Backpacker Campervan Rentals) 1800 809 944 mightycampers.com.au

Oz Experience Hop on-hop off Australia-wide tours 1300 300 028, ozexperience.com

Boomerang Cars 0414 882 559, boomerangrentacar.net

Surfcamp Sydney to Byron surfing tours 1800 888 732, surfcamp.com.au

Hippie Camper 1800 777 779, hippiecamper.com

Adventure Tours Australia-wide tours 1800 068 886, adventuretours.com.au

Jump Tours Tours around Tasmania 0422 130 630, jumptours.com

Airliebeach.com Whitsundays packages 1800 677 119, airliebeach.com

Kakadu Dreams Kakadu tours 1800 813 266, kakadudreams.com.au

Autopia Tours Tours around Victoria 03 9391 0261, autopiatours.com.au

Kangaroo Island Adventure Tours Adelaide to KI tours 13 13 01, sealink.com.au

Under Down Under Tours Tours around Tasmania 1800 064 726, underdownunder.com.au

Awesome Adventures Oz Whitsundays packages 1800 293 7663, awesomeoz.com

Kangaroo Island Wildlife Adventures South Australia 1800 786 386, surfandsun.com.au

Western Xposure WA tours 08 9414 8423, westernxposure.com.au

The Rock Tour Red centre tours 1800 246 345, therocktour.com.au Topdeck Tours covering all of Oz 1300 886 332, topdeck.travel

Kings Cross Car Market For buying and selling vehicles. 110 Bourke St, Woolloomooloo. 02 9358 5000, carmarket.com.au Spaceships 1300 132 469, spaceshipsrentals.com.au Standbycars.com 1300 789 059, standbycars.com Travellers Auto Barn 1800 674 374, travellers-autobarn.com.au

@tnt_downunder Wicked Campers 1800 246 869, wickedcampers.com

TRANSPORT CO Greyhound Australia Buses around Australia. 13 20 30, greyhound.com.au Jetstar Airline. 131 538,

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Premier Transport Group Buses along the east coast. 13 34 10, premierms.com.au Qantas Airline. 13 13 13, qantas.com.au Regional Express Airline. 13 17 13, rex.com.au Spirit of Tasmania Ferries to Tasmania. 03 6336 1446, spiritoftasmania.com Tiger Airways Airline. 03 9999 2888, tigerairways.com Redline Coaches For getting around Tasmania. 03 6336 1446, tasredline.com.au Virgin Australia Airline. 13 67 89, virginaustralia.com

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www.premierms.com.au or phone 13 13 34 34 10 10 www.premierms.com.au or ph 50

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SYDNEY STAY Base Sydney 477 Kent St. CBD. 02 9267 7718 stayatbase.com

Taronga Zoo Mosman. taronga.org.au

CHECK IN

Waves Surf School wavessurfschool.com.au

Big Hostel 212 Elizabeth St. CBD. 02 9281 6030 bighostel.com

SYDNEY MUSIC Hordern Pavillion playbillvenues.com

Bounce Budget Hotel 28 Chalmers St. CBD. 02 9281 2222 bouncehostel.com.au

Oxford Art Factory oxfordartfactory.com Sydney Opera House sydneyoperahouse.com

Easy Go Backpackers 752 George St. CBD. 02 9211 0505, easygobackpackers.com.au

City Resort Hostel 103-105 Palmer St. Woolloomooloo 02 9357 3333 cityresort.com.au Sydney Central YHA 11 Rawson Place. CBD. 02 9218 9000 Sydney Harbour YHA 110 Cumberland Street. The Rocks. 02 8272 0900 yha.com.au Westend Backpackers 412 Pitt St. CBD. 1800 921 4588 nomadshostels.com Boomerang Backpackers 141 William Street, Kings Cross. 02 8354 0488, boomerangbackpackers.com Dlux Hostel 30 Darlinghurst Rd, Kings Cross. 1800 236 213 dluxbudgethotel.com.au Kangaroo Bak Pak 665 South Dowling St. Surry Hills. 02 9318 0902 Avalon Beach Hostel 59 Avalon Pde, Avalon Beach. 02 9918 9709, avalonbeach.com.au Bondi Shores Level 1. 283 Bondi Road, Bondi bondishores.com.au Bondi YHA 63 Fletcher Street. Tamarama. 02 9365 2088, yha.com.au Lamrock Lodge 19 Lamrock Ave. Bondi. 02 9130 5063, lamrocklodge.com Lochner’s Guesthouse 27 Paul St. Bondi. 02 9389 5421 Aegean Coogee Lodge 40 Coogee Bay Rd. Coogee. 04 0817 6634, aegeancoogee.com.au

THE MANLY BUNKHOUSE 35 Pine Street, Manly. Dorms from $38 Located in the heart of Manly, about 250 metres from Manly Beach and a 10-minute walk from the town centre, The Manly Bunkhouse offers decent, budget accommodation in a quiet beachside location.

Manly

The Enmore enmoretheatre.com.au The Metro metrotheatre.com.au

bunkhouse.com.au

Coogee Beach House 171 Arden St. Coogee. 02 9665 1162, coogeebeachhouse.com Coogee Beachside 178 Coogee Bay Rd, Coogee. 02 9315 8511, sydneybeachside.com.au Surfside Backpackers 186 Arden Street. Coogee. 02 9315 7888, surfsidebackpackers.com.au Glebe Point YHA 262-264 Glebe Point Road. Glebe. 02 9692 8418,yha.com.au Boardrider Backpacker Rear 63, The Corso, Manly. 02 9977 6077 boardrider.com.au The Bunkhouse 35 Pine St, Manly. 1800 657 122, bunkhouse.com.au

BLUE MTNS

Powerhouse Museum Darling Harbour. powerhousemuseum.com.au Skydive the Beach Wollongong. skydivethebeach.com Sydney Olympic Park Darling Harbour. sydneyolympicpark.nsw.gov.au Sydney Tower and Skytour 100 Market St, CBD. sydneytowereye.com.au Sydney Harbour Bridge The Rocks. bridgeclimb.com Sydney Aquarium Darling Harbour. sydneyaquarium.com.au Sydney Wildlife World Darling Harbour. sydneywildlifeworld.com.au

Blue Mountains YHA 207 Katoomba St, Katoomba. 02 4782 1416, yha.com.au

CENTRAL COAST Newcastle Beach YHA 30 Pacific St, Newcastle. 02 4925 3544, yha.com.au Terrigal Beach YHA 9 Ocean View Dr, Terrigal. 02 4384 1919, yha.com.au The Entrance Backpackers 2/56 The Entrance Road, The Entrance, 2261 02 4334 5005 theentrancebackpackers.com Skydive Central Coast Warnervale. skydivethecentralcoast.com.au

Backpackers Inn 29 Shirley St 1800 817 696 backpackersinnbyronbay.com.au Byron Bay Accom 02 6680 8666, byronbayaccom.net The Arts Factory 1 Skinners Shoot Rd. 02 6685 7709, nomadsworld.com Nomads Byron Bay Lawson Lane. 1800 6680 7966, nomadsworld.com Byron Bay YHA 7 Carlyle St. 1800 678 195 yha.com.au Skydive the Beach Byron Bay Kingsford Smith Park, Ballina 1800 302 005 skydivethebeachbyronbay.com

COFFS HARB Coffs Harbour YHA 51 Collingwood St. 02 6652 6462, yha.com.au Harbour City Holiday Park 123 Pacific Highway coffsholidaypark.com.au Hoey Moey Backpackers 80 Ocean Pde hoeymoey.com.au Solitary Islands Marine Resort North St, Wooli NSW 1462 1800 003 031 solitaryislandsresort.com.au

IN THE SPOTLIGHT

Manly Backpackers 24-28 Raglan St. Manly. 02 9977 3411 manlybackpackers.com.au Cammeray Gardens 66 Palmer St, North Sydney. 02 9954 9371 sydneyboardinghouse.com Wake Up! 509 Pitt St, CBD. 02 9288 7888, wakeup.com.au

Photos: Getty/Facebook

Eva’s Backpackers 6-8 Orwell Street Kings Cross 02 9358 2185, evasbackpackers.com.au

The Annandale annandalehotel.com

BYRON BAY Backpackers Holiday Village 116 Jonson St 1800 350 388, byronbaybackpackers.com.au

SYDNEY DO Manly Surf School Manly Beach. 02 9977 6977, manlysurfschool.com Maritime Museum Darling Harbour. anmm.gov.au My Sydney Detour Unique city tours. mysydneydetour.com Oceanworld Manly West Esplanade. oceanworld.com.au

SYDNEY HARBOUR BRIDGE The Sydney Harbour Bridge is an international icon for Sydney and Australia and is one of the country’s best-known landmarks. Affectionately called the ‘Coathanger’ by locals, since 1998 you’ve been able to climb it. Top that – literally.

Sydney

bridgeclimb.com

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QLDLISTINGS BRISBANE STAY Aussie Way Backpackers 34 Cricket St. 07 3369 0711, aussiewaybackpackers.com Banana Bender Backpackers 118 Petrie Terrace. 07 3367 1157, bananabenders.com Base Brisbane Embassy 214 Elizabeth St. 07 3166 8000, stayatbase.com Base Brisbane Central 308 Edward St. 07 3211 2433, stayatbase.com Brisbane Backpackers Resort 110 Vulture St, West End. 1800 626 452, brisbanebackpackers.com.au Brisbane City Backpackers 380 Upper Roma St 1800 062 572, citybackpackers.com Bunk Backpackers Cnr Ann & Gipps Sts, 1800 682 865, katarzyna.com.au The Deck 117 Harcourt Street, New Farm. 04 3270 6666, bbmlive.com.au Base Uptown Cnr George & Herschel Sts. 1800 24 2273 stayatbase.com Balmoral House 33 Amelia St, Fortitude Valley vipbackpackers.com Brisbane City YHA 392 Upper Roma St yha.com.au The Elephant Hotel 230 Wickham St elephanthotel.com.au Somewhere to Stay Cnr Brighton Rd & Franklin St somewheretostay.com.au The Palace Backpackers Cnr Anne & Edward St backpackbrisbane.com Tin Billy Travellers 462 George St tinbilly.com

BRISBANE DO Australia Zoo Glasshouse Mountains, Tourist Drive, Beerwah. 07 5436 2000, australiazoo.com.au

Photo: Tourism Queensland

Gallery of Modern Art Australian and international paintings, sculptures and decorative art. 07 3840 7303, qag.qld.gov.au

Riverlife Adventure Centre Kayaking & rock climbing. Lower River Terrace, Kangaroo Point. 07 3891 5766, riverlife.com.au Story Bridge Adventure Climb 170 Main St, Kangaroo Point.

1300 254 627, storybridgeadventureclimb. com.au

1800 020 120 mooloolababackpackers.com

XXXX Brewery Tours & Ale House Brewery tours. Cnr Black & Paten St, Milton. 07 3361 7597, xxxxalehouse.com. au

RAINBOW BEACH

GOLD COAST Aquarius Backpackers 44 Queen St, Surfers Paradise. 1800 22 99 55, aquariusbackpackers.com.au Backpackers in Paradise 40 Peninsula Drive, Surfers Paradise. 1800 268 621, backpackersinparadise.com.au

Dingos Backpacker Adventure Resort 20 Spectrum St. 1800 111126, dingosresort.com Pippies Beach House 22 Spectrum St. 1800 425 356, pippiesbeachhouse.com Skydive Rainbow Beach 0418 218 358, skydiverainbowbeach.com

HERVEY BAY

Coolangatta YHA Pl, 230 Coolangatta Rd, Bilinga. 07 5536 76442, yha.com.au

Aussie Woolshed 181 Torquay Rd 07 4124 0677 woolshedbackpackers.com.au

Gold Coast International BP 28 Hamilton Ave, Surfers. 1800 816 300, goldcoastbackpackers.com.au

Next at Hervey Bay 10 Bideford St. 1800 102 989, nextbackpackers.com

Islander Backpackers Resort 6 Beach Rd, Surfers. 1800 074 393, islander.com.au

Palace Backpackers 184 Torquay, 1800 063 168, palaceadventures.com.au

Sleeping Inn Surfers 26 Peninsular Dr, Surfers Paradise. 1800 817 832, sleepinginn.com.au Surfers Paradise Backpackers Resort 2837 Gold Coast Highway, Surfers. 1800 282 800, surfersparadisebackpackers. com.au Surfers Paradise YHA Mariners Cove, 70 Seaworld Drive, Main Beach, Surfers Paradise. 07 5571 1776, yha.com.au Trekkers Backpackers 22 White St, Southport. 07 5591 5616, trekkersbackpackers.com.au Nomads Islander Resort 3128 Surfers Paradise Blvd, nomadsworld.com Surf & Sun Backpackers 3323 Surfers Paradise Blvd surfnsun-goldcoast.com

GC DO Dreamworld Theme park. dreamworld.com.au Get Wet Surf School 1800 438 938 Seaworld

seaworld.com.au

Wet ‘n’ Wild Water World wetnwild.myfun.com.au Warner Bros Movie World movieworld.com.au Zorb 07 5547 6300

SUNSHINE CST Mooloolaba Backpackers 75-77 Brisbane Rd, Mooloolaba.

FRASER ISLAND Eurong Beach Resort 07 4120 1600, eurong.com.au Palace Adventures 184 Torquay St, Hervey Bay, 1800 063 168 palaceadventures.com.au

Woolshed Backpackers 181 Torquay Road woolshedbackpackers.com.au

BUNDABERG Federal Backpackers 221 Bourbong St. 07 4153 3711 federalbackpackers.com.au Northside Backpackers 12 Queen St. 07 4154 1166 Bundaberg Bondstore Distillery tours. 07 4131 2999 bundabergrum.com.au

TOWN OF 1770 1770 Backpackers 6 Captain Cook Dr. 1800 121 770, the1770backpackers.com 1770 Undersea Adventures 1300 553 889, 1770underseaadventures.com. au

AIRLIE BEACH airliebeach.com 259 Shute Harbour Rd. 1800 677 119 Airlie Beach YHA 394 Shute Harbour Rd. 07 4946 6312, yha.com.au Backpackers by the Bay 12 Hermitage Dr. 1800 646 994, backpackersbythebay.com

Barefoot Lodge Long Island barefootlodge.com.au

Base Airlie Beach Resort 336 Shute Harbour Rd 07 4948 2000, stayatbase.com

Colonial Village YHA 820 Boat Harbour Drive, Urangan, Hervey Bay yha.com.au

Magnums Whitsunday Village Resort 366 Shute Harbour Rd. 1800 624 634 magnums.com.au

Cool Dingo’s Rainbow Beach 20 Spectrum St dingosresort.com Dropbear Adventures Williams Ave, Fraser Island. QLD 61 487 333 606 dropbearadventures.com.au Frasers On Rainbow Beach 195 Torquay Terrace, Torquay, flashpackersherveybay.com Kingfisher Bay Resort River Heads Road, Fraser Island kingfisherbay.com Fraser Coast Top Tourist Park 21 Denmans Camp Road, Scarness, Hervey Bay frasercoasttouristpark.com.au Fraser Island Backpackers Cathedral Beach, Fraser Island fraserislandco.com.au Fraser’s on Rainbow 18 Spectrum Av, Rainbow Beach frasersonrainbow.com The Friendly Hostel 182 Torquay Rd, Hervey Bay friendlyhostel.com.au

BOWEN Bowen Backpackers Beach end of Herbert St. 07 4786 3433 bowenbackpackers.net

TOWNSVILLE Adventurers Resort 79 Palmer St. 1800 211 522, adventurersresort.com Adrenalin Dive. 07 4724 0600, adrenalindive.com.au Yongala Dive Yongala diving. 07 4783 1519, yongaladive.com.au

MAGNETIC IS Base Magnetic Island 1 Nelly Bay Rd. 07 4778 5777, stayatbase.com Bungalow Bay Backpackers Horseshow Bay.

@tnt_downunder 1800 285 577, bungalowbay.com.au Hotel Arcadia 7 Marine Parade, Arcadia Bay. 07 4778 5177, hotelaracadia.com.au Pleasure Divers 07 4778 5788

MISSION BEACH Absolute Backpackers 28 Wongaling Beach Road. 07 4068 8317, absolutebackpackers.com.au Beach Shack 86 Porters Promenade missionbeachshack.com Scotty’s Beach House 167 Reid Rd. 07 4068 8676, scottysbeachhouse.com.au Jackaroo Hostel Mission Beach Frizelle Rd, Bingil Bay jackaroohostel.com Mission Beach Retreat 49 Porters Promenade missionbeachretreat.com.au

CAIRNS STAY Bohemia Central Cairns 100 Sheridan St. 1800 558 589, bhacentral.com.au Bohemia Resort Cairns 231 McLeod St. 1800 155 353 bohemiaresort.com.au Calypso Backpackers 5 Digger St. 1800 815 628, calypsobackpackers.com.au JJ’s Backpackers Hostel 11 Charles St. 07 4051 7642, jjsbackpackers.com NJoy Backpackers Hostel Harbour 141 Sheridan St. 1800 807 055, njoy.net.au Nomads Beach House 239 Sheridan St. 1800 229 228, nomadshostels.com Northern Greenhouse 117 Grafton Street. 1800 229 228, northerngreenhouse.com.au

CAIRNS DO AJ Hackett Bungy jumping & canyon swinging. 1800 622 888 cairns.ajhackett.com Go Wild Jungle Tours Day tours to Daintree Rainforest. 07 4041 9440, jungletours.com.au Pro Dive 07 4031 5255 prodivecairns.com Raging Thunder Adventures Whitewater rafting. 07 4030 7990, ragingthunder.com.au Skydive Cairns POBOX 105N Cairns 07 4052 1822, skydivecairns.com.au

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. . . E R E H Y L L A IN F E YOU’R

LET THE ADVENTURE BEGIN!

Backpackers 40% off ALL economy rail fares* Get more out of your Queensland adventure with these great value fares for overseas backpackers and you can enjoy the journey almost as much as the destination.

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Hughenden

Winton

Great Barrier Reef

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Airlie Beach Mackay

Drummond Range Emerald Alpha

Pacific Ocean

Yeppoon Heron Island

Rockhampton

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Book your backpacker rail fares at queenslandrailtravel.com.au

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Terms and conditions: *To receive the discount international backpackers must hold a current passport with an international address. Discounts of 40% applies to economy, premium economy and business seat fares. These fares exclude Australian resident backpackers who receive up to 10% discounts off the rail fare. For full terms and conditions and other fares available ask your travel agent or visit queenslandrailtravel.com.au. Queensland Rail ABN 68 598 268 528 Travel Agent Lic. No. QLD 327 4957 QR3789.37_87x245_1113

SHOP: Cnr Shields & Grafton Sts, Cairns FREECALL: 1800 353 213 PHONE: +617 4031 5255 RES: info@prodivecairns.com tntdownunder.com

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QLDLISTINGS CAPE TRIB Crocodylus Village Lot 5, Buchanan Creek Rd, Cow Bay. 07 4098 9166, crocodyluscapetrib.com PK’s Jungle Village Cnr Avalon & Cape Trib Rd. 1800 232 333, pksjunglevillage.com.au

INNISFAIL Innisfail Budget Backpackers Worker’s Hostel 125 Edith St. 07 4061 78337 Walkabout Motel & ackpackers 07 4061 2311 walkaboutbackpackers.com

PORT DOUGLAS Parrotfish Backpackers Resort 37 Warner St, Kuranda. 07 4099 5011, parrotfishlodge.com

GULF SAVANNAH Emu Creek Cattle Station 08 9943 0534

DAINTREE Koala Beach Resort Lake St, 07 4051 4933

MORETON ISLAND

Tangalooma Wild Dolphin Resort tangalooma.com

NOOSA STAY Flashpackers Noosa 102 Pacific Avenue, Sunshine Beach flashpackersnoosa.com Nomads Noosa Backpackers 44 Noosa Dr Noosa Inland nomadsworld.com Noosa Backpackers 9-13 William St, Noosaville noosabackpackers.com Halse Lodge YHA 2 Halse Lane, Noosa. 1800 242 567, halselodge.com.au Dolphins Beach House Noosa 14 – 16 Duke Street, Sunshine Beach dolphinsbeachhouse.com

NOOSA DO Australia Zoo 1638 Steve Irwin Way, Sunshine Coast australiazoo.com The Discovery Group Noosa Everglades thediscoverygroup.com.au Drop Bear Adventures Fraser Island from Noosa dropbearadventures.com.au Kanu Kapers Australia Noosa Everglades kanukapersaustralia.com

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Noosa Learn to Surf Noosa Main Beach, Noosa Heads learntosurf.com.au

PORT DOUGLAS Dougies Backpackers Resort 111 Davidson St dougies.com.au Global Port Douglas 38 Macrossan St globalbackpackerscairns.com. au/port-douglas Parrot Fish Lodge 37 Warner St parrotfishlodge.com Port O’Call YHA 7 Craven Close portocall.com.au

INNISFAIL Codge Lodge 63 Rankin St codgelodge.com Crown Hostel 25 Ernest St (07) 4061 2266 Backpackers Shack 7 Ernest St fbackpakershack.com Farm work, Innisfail farmwork.tv/farmwork/innisfail

AGNES WATER 1770 Beachside Backpacker 12 Captain Cook Drive independentbackpackers.com

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1770 Southern Cross Backpackers 2694 Round Hill Rd 1770southerncross.com

ROCKHAMPTON Emu Park Resort 92 Patterson St, Emu Park emusbeachresort.com Rockhampton Backpackers YHA 60 Macfarlane St yha.com.au Childers Eco-Lodge Off the Princess Highway childersecolodge.com.au

SUNSHINE COAST

TOWNSVILLE Adventurers Backpackers 79 Palmer St

adventurersresort.com Civic Guest House Backpackers Hostel 262 Walker St civicguesthousetownsville.

com.au Foreign Exchange Accommodation Beachside 19 Eyre St, North Ward

foreignx.com.au

Amore on Buderim 27 Earlybird Dr, Buderim amoreonbuderim.com.au Buderim Motor Inn 45 King St, Buderim buderimmotorinn.com Bli Bli House B&B 600 David Low Way, Pacific Paradise. buderimmotorinn.com Beach Front Towers 4 Aerodrome Rd, Marochydore beachfronttowers.com.au Cotton Tree Beachouse 15 the Esplanade cottontreebackpackers.com The Duporth 6 Wharf St, Maroochydore theduporth.com.au

MACKAY Gecko’s Rest 34 Sydney St

geckosrest.com.au

MAGNETIC IS Base Magnetic Island 1 Nelly Bay Rd

stayatbase.com Bungalow Bay Koala Village YHA 40 Horseshoe Bay Rd

bungalowbay.com.au

Photo: Skyrail

IN THE SPOTLIGHT

SKYRAIL RAINFOREST CABLEWAY If you’re not much of a daredevil but still like the idea of seeing a rainforest from above, you can smoothly glide over the rainforest and gorges from Caravonica Lakes to Kurand in a glass-bottomed cable car or one of the brand new four-person open-air gondolas. You can pop out at Skyrail’s two mid-stations, where you can explore the rainforest from ground level, on boardwalks and from scenic look-outs, and learn a bit more about the ‘science bits’ at the interpretation centre. A one-way trip costs from $47. skyrail.com.au.

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Australiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

Gold Coast

Famous for fun

AdventureGoldCoast.com 741 OZ LISTINGS.indd 55

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TASLISTINGS

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LAUNCESTON DO

HOBART STAY

CHECK IN

Backpackers Imperial Hobart 138 Collins St. 03 6229 5215, centralbackpackers.com.au

Cataract Gorge launcestoncataractgorge.com.au Centre for Beer Lovers Boag’s Brewery, 39 William St. 03 6332 6300, boags.com.au

Hobart Hostel 41 Barrack St. 1300 252 192, hobarthostel.com

Queen Victoria Museum & Art Gallery 2 Invermay Rd & 2 Wellington St. 03 6323 3777, qvmag.tas.gov.au

Montgomery’s YHA 9 Argyle St. 03 6231 2660, yha.com.au Narrara Backpackers 88 Goulburn St. 03 6234 8801, narrarabackpackers.com

Tasmania Zoo 1166 Ecclestone Rd. 03 6396 6100, tasmaniazoo.com.au

Pickled Frog 281 Liverpool St. 03 6234 7977, thepickledfrog.com

DEVONPORT

Transit Backpackers 251 Liverpool St. 03 6231 2400, transitbackpackers.com

ARTHOUSE BACKPACKER HOSTEL 20 Lindsay Street, Launceston. Dorms from $22 This place caters for those on a bit of a budget but don’t let that fool you, it isn’t naff. Recently renovated and very comfortable.

HOBART DO Cascade Brewery 140 Cascade Rd. 03 6224 1117 cascadebreweryco.com.au Mt Wellington Descent Bike tours. 03 6274 1880 mtwellingtondescent.com.au

Launceston

PORT ARTHUR Port Arthur Historic Ghost Tours 1800 659 101, portarthur.org.au

Salamanca Markets Every Saturday, Salamanca Place. salamanca.com.au Tasmanian Museum & Art Gallery 5 Argyle St. tmag.tas.gov.au

arthousehostel.com.au

LAUNCESTON Arthouse Backpacker Hostel 20 Lindsay St. 1800 041 135, arthousehostel.com.au

Launceston Backpackers 103 Canning St. 03 6334 2327, launcestonbackpackers.com.au Lloyds Hotel 23 George St. 03 6331 9906, backpackersaccommodation.com.au

Tasman Backpackers 114 Tasman St. 03 6423 2335, tasmanbackpackers.com.au

BICHENO Bicheno Backpackers 11 Morrison St. 03 6375 1651, bichenobackpackers.com Bicheno Penguin Tours 03 6375 1333, bichenopenguintours.com.au

CRADLE MTN Discovery Holiday Parks Cradle Mountain Rd. 1800 068 574 discoveryholidayparks.com. au/TAS

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Mt Roland Budget Backpacker Rooms 1447 Claude Rd, Gowrie Park. 03 6491 1385

CRADLE DO Devils @ Cradle Tassie devil sanctuary. 3950 Cradle Mountain Rd. 03 6492 1491. devilsatcradle.com Overland Track Six-day walk parks.tas.gov.au

FREYCINET Big 4 Iluka Reserve Rd. 03 6257 0115, yha.com.au Freycinet National Park Brewery, Wineglass Bay camping. 03 6256 7000 wineglassbay.com

STRAHAN, Strahan YHA 43 Harvey St. 03 6471 7255, yha.com

STRAHAN DO Wild Rivers Jet Jet Boat Cruises. 0364717396 wildriversjet.com.au Water by Nature Extreme multiday whitewater rafting. 1800 111 142, franklinrivertasmania.com

Photo: Thinkstock

IN THE SPOTLIGHT

LAUNCESTON

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Set on the banks of the Tamar River in Tassie’s north, Launceston retains a small-town air despite a population of 100,000. With quaint hillside suburbs lined with Federation-style houses and architectural gems such as the neo-Egyptian synagogue, Launceston is not without its attractions – Tasmania Zoo, Franklin House, Platypus Duck Park, Tamar Island and The Old Umbrella Shop are just a few of them.

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VICLISTINGS

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MELBOURNE STAY

CHECK IN

All Nations Nomads 2 Spencer St. 03 9620 1022, nomadsworld.com.au

Melbourne 1300 798 843 skydivethebeachmelbourne.com Tourism Victoria Backpacking ideas. backpackmelbourne.com

Base Melbourne 17 Carlisle St, St. Kilda. 09 8598 6200, stayatbase.com

Wildlife Tours Australia Specialising in Victorian tours +61 3 9314 2225 wildlifetours.com.au

Central Melbourne Accommodation 21 Bromham Place, Richmond. 03 9427 9826, centralaccommodation.net

Anglesea Backpackers 40 Noble St, Anglesea. 03 5263 2664, angleseabackpackers.com.au

Exford Hotel 199 Russell St. 03 9663 2697, exfordhotel.com.au Flinders Station Hotel 35 Elizabeth St. 03 9620 5100, flindersbackpackers.com.au The Greenhouse Backpacker Level 6, 228 Flinders Lane. 1800 249 207, greenhousebackpacker.com.au Habitat HQ 333 St Kilda Road, St Kilda. 1800 202 500, habitathq.com.au Home at the Mansion 66 Victoria Parade. 03 9663 4212 homemansion.com.au Home Travellers Motel 32 Carlisle St, St Kilda. 1800 008 718, homehostels.com.au Discovery Melbourne 167 Franklin St. 03 9329 7525 discoverymelbourne.com Melbourne Central YHA 562 Flinders St. 03 9621 2523, yha.com.au Nomads Melbourne 198 A’beckett St. 03 9328 4383, nomadshostels.com Space Hotel 380 Russell St. 1800 670 611, spacehotel.com.au The Spencer 475 Spencer St. 1800 638 108, spencerbackpackers.com.au Back of Chapel 50 Green St, Windsor nomadshostels.com College Lawn Hotel 36 Greville St, Prahran collegelawnhotel.com.au Claremont Guesthouse 189 Toorak Rd, South Yarra hotelclaremont.com City Centre Budget Hotel 22-30 Little Collins St citycentrebudgethotel.com Elephant Backpackers 250 Flinders St

10-12 Phillip Island Rd, Cowes. Prices from $39 per person An award-winning eco-friendly accommodation complex which provides a gateway to Phillip Island.

Phillip Island

theislandaccommodation.com.au

elephantbackpacker.com.au Elizabeth Hostel 490 Elizabeth St elizabethhostel.com.au King St Backpackers 160 King Street kingstreetbackpackers.com.au Hotel Discovery 167 Franklin St hoteldiscovery.com.au Lords Lodge Backpackers 204 Punt Rd lordslodge.com.au Melbourne International Backpackers 450 Elizabeth St mibp.com.au Melbourne Metro YHA 78 Howard St yha.com.au Melbourne Oasis YHA 76 Chapman St yha.com.au St Arnaud 99 Park St, South Yarra, starnaudguesthouse.com The Spencer City Central BP 475 Spencer St spencerbackpackers.com.au The Nunnery 116 Nicholson Street, Fitzroy nunnery.com.au Urban Central 334 City Road, Southbank urbancentral.com.au Victoria Hotel Backpackers Victoria Hotel, 380 Victoria St vichotelbrunswick.com.au

ST KILDA Back of Chapel Backpackers 50 Green St backofchapel.com Base St Kilda 17 Carlisle St stayatbase.com

Coffee Palace Backpackers 24 Grey St coffeepalacebackpackers.com.au Habitat HQ 333 St Kilda Rd, thehabitathq.com.au Oslo Hotel 38 Grey St oslohotel.com.au The Ritz for Backpackers 109 Barkly St ritzbackpackers.com St Kilda Beach House 169B Fitzroy St stkildabeachhouse.com.au

MELBOURNE DO Australian Centre for the Moving Image Federation Square. 03 8663 2200, acmi.net.au Melbourne Aquarium Cnr of Flinders St & King St. 03 9923 5999, melbourneaquarium.com.au Discovery Melbourne 167 Franklin St. discoverymelbourne.com Melbourne Cricket Ground Brunton Av. 03 9657 8888 mcg.org.au

Melbourne Museum 11 Nicholson St, Carlton. 13 11 02

melbourne.museum.vic.gov.au National Gallery of Victoria Federation Square. ngv.vic.gov.au Old Melbourne Gaol 377 Russell St. 03 8663 7228, oldmelbournegaol.com.au Official Neighbours Tours 570 Flinders St. neighbourstour.com.au Skydive the Beach

Amaroo Park YHA 97 Church St, Cowes. 03 5952 3620, yha.com.au Anchor Belle Holiday Park 272 Church St, Cowes. 03 5952 2258, anchorbelle.com.au

Apollo Eco Beach YHA 5 Pascoe St. 03 5237 7899, yha.com.au

Avenue Apartments 204 Thompson Avenue, Cowes. 03 5952 6718, visitphillipisland.com

Great Ocean Road Backpackers YHA 10 Erskine Av, Lorne. 03 5289 1070, greatoceanroadcottages.com

Beach Park Tourist Caravan Park 2 McKenzie Rd, Cowes. 03 5952 22113, beachpark.com.au

Port Campbell Hostel 18 Tregea St, Port Campbell. 03 5598 6305, portcampbellhostel.com.au

BIG4 Inverloch Holiday Park 2 Cuttriss St, Inverloch. 03 5674 1447, inverlochholidaypark.com.au

Surfside Backpackers Cnr Great Ocean Rd & Gambier St, Apollo Bay. 1800 357 263, surfsidebackpacker.com

BIG4 Phillip Island Caravan Park 24 Old Bridge Dr, Newhaven. 03 5956 7227, phillipislandcpk.com.au

MORNINGTON

Cowes Caravan Park 164 Church St, Cowes. 03 5952 2211, cowescaravan.com.au

Bayplay Lodge 46 Canterbury Jetty Rd, Blairgowrie. 03 5988 0188, bayplay.com.au

Koala Park Resort 1825 Phillip Island Rd, Cowes. 03 5952 2176, koalaparkresort.com.au

Sorrento Foreshore Reserve Nepean Hwy. 1800 850 600, mornpen.vic.gov.au

The Island Accommodation 10-12 Phillip Island Tourist Road. 03 5956 6123 theislandaccommodation.com. au

Sorrento YHA 3 Miranda St, Sorrento. 03 5984 4323, yha.com.au

San Remo Holiday Park 4 Mary Grove, San Remo. 03 5678 5024 visitphillipisland.com

Tortoise Head Lodge French Island. 03 5980 1234, tortoisehead.net

GRAMPIANS

DANDENONG

Grampians YHA Eco Hostel Cnr Grampians & Buckler Rds, Halls Gap. 03 5356 4544, yha.com.au

Emerald Backpackers 03 5968 4086

MURRAY RIVER Echuca Gardens YHA 103 Av, Mitchell St, Echuca. 03 5480 6522, yha.com.au

Tim’s Place 44 Grampians Road, Halls Gap. 03 5356 4288, timsplace.com.au

Mildura City Backpackers 50 Lemon Ave, Mildura. 03 5022 7922, milduracitybackpackers.com.au

MILDURA

Oasis Backpackers 230 Deakin Av, Mildura. 04 0734 4251, milduraoasisbackpackers.com.au

GIPPSLAND

Cambrai Hostel Maffra 117 Johnson St, Maffra. 1800 101 113 maffra.net.au/hostel

PHILLIP ISLAND

GREAT OCEAN RD

THE ISLAND ACCOMMODATION

Prom Coast YHA Backpackers 0427 875 735

Mildura City Backpackers 50 Lemon Avenue milduracitybackpackers.com.au

STRATHMERTON Riviera Backpackers YHA 669 Esplanade yha.com.au

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WALISTINGS

PERTH STAY

CHECK IN

Billabong Backpackers Resort 381 Beaufort St. 08 9328 7720, billabongresort.com.au Britannia on William 253 William St, Northbridge. 08 9227 6000, perthbritannia.com

Grand Central Hotel Backpackers 379 Wellington St 08 9421 1123 Hay Street Backpackers 266-268 Hay St haystbackpackers.com Hotel Bambu Backpackers 75 - 77 Aberdeen St, Northbridge bambu.net.au

Emperor’s Crown 85 Stirling St, Northbridge. 1800 991 553, emperorscrown.com.au

Mountway Holiday Apartments 36 Mount St mountwayapartments.com.au Ocean Beach Backpackers 1 Eric St, Cottesloe oceanbeachbackpackers.com.au Perth Beach YHA 256 West Coast Hwy, Scarbrough yha.com.au

THE EMPEROR’S CROWN

Ocean Beach Backpackers 1 Eric St, Cottlesloe. 08 9384 5111, oceanbeachbackpackers.com.au

1 Eric Street, Cottesloe. Beds from $24.50 The Emperor’s Crown is really, really close to Perth Railway Station, like 500 metres away, and offers affordable accommodation just five minutes’ walk from the city centre.

Perth

Planet Inn Backpackers 496 Newcastle St planetinn.com.au

emperorscrown.com.au

Perth City YHA 300 Wellington St. 08 9287 3333, yha.com.au

Underground Backpackers 268 Newcastle St, Northbridge. 08 9228 3755, undergroundbackpackers.com.au

The Old Swan Barracks 2-8 Francis St. 08 9428 0000, theoldswanbarracks.com

The Witch’s Hat 148 Palmerston St. 08 9228 4228, Witchs-hat.com

Backpack City and Surf 41-43 Money St backpacker.com.au Beatty Lodge 235 Vincent St beattylodge.com.au Cheviot Lodge 30 Bulwer St cheviotlodge.com

The Shiralee Hostel 107 Brisbane St, Northbridge shiralee.com.au

Coolibah Lodge 194 Brisbane St

coolibahlodge.com.au Easy Perth Backpacker

Underground Backpackers 268 Newcastle St, undergroundbackpackers.com.au Wickham Retreat Backpackers 25-27 Wickham St, East Perth 08 9325 6398

4 Francis Street, Northbridge

easyperthbackpackers.com.au

YMCA Jewell House

Photo: Facebook

Globe Backpackers & City Oasis Resort 561 Wellington St. 08 9321 4080, globebackpackers.com.au

One World Backpackers 162 Aberdeen St, Northbridge. 1800 188 100, oneworldbackpackers.com.au

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Book online at www.integritycoachlines.com.au or call 08 9274 7464 (1800 226 339 free call W.A only)

Coming soon Travel to Karijini with Integrity Coach Lines

in 2014!

THE ONLY COACH SERVICE TO KARIJINI IN AUSTRALIA

HOP ON HOP OFF TICKET $329 valid for 12 months in one direction with unlimited stops!

With unlimited stopovers on all our services and Hop on Hop off ticket now available between Perth, Broome, Monkey Mia, Exmouth, Kalbarri and many more, there is no better way to travel Western Australia than with Integrity Coach Lines! Integrity Coach Lines provide an excellent reliable coach service at a competitive price. Cheap prices for backpackers YHA VIP & Nomad members! Check us out online.

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180 Goderich St ymcajewellhouse.com.au Coolibah Lodge 194 Brisbane St coolibahlodge.com.au

PERTH DO

20 Labouchere Road, South Perth. 08 9474 3551, perthzoo.wa.gov.au Penguin Island 153 Arcadia Drive (corner of Penguin Road), Shoalwater, Perth. 08 9591 1333, penguinisland.com.au

Aquarium of Western Australia 91 Southside Drive, Hillarys. 08 9447 7500, aqwa.com.au

Perth Concert Hall 5 St George’s Terr., Perth. 08 9231 9900, perthconcerthall.com.au

Art Gallery of Western Australia Perth Cultural Centre/Roe St, Perth. 08 9492 6600, artgallery.wa.gov.au

St Mary’s Cathedral 17 Victoria Square,, Perth. 08 9223 1350, perthcatholic.org.au

Aviation Heritage Museum Bull Creek Drive, Air Force Memorial Estate, Perth. 08 9311 4470, raafawa.org.au Crown Perth Great Eastern Hwy, Burswood. 08 9362 7777, crownperth.com.au Kings Park & Botanic Garden bgpa.wa.gov.au Moonlight Cinema Synergy Parklan, Kings Park, Perth. moonlight.com.au Perth Mint 310 Hay St. 08 9421 7223, perthmint.com.au

St George’s Cathedral 38 St George’s Terrace, Perth. 08 9325 5766, perthcathedral.org The Perth Mint 310 Hay Street, Perth. 08 9421 7376, perthmint.com.au The WACA Nelson Crescent, East Perth. 08 9265 7222,, waca.com.au Western Australian Museum James St, 08 9212 3700, museum.wa.gov.au

Perth Zoo

Photo: Facebook

IN THE SPOTLIGHT

MECHANICS’ INSTITUTE Enjoy cocktails on the rooftop terrace overlooking the city. Famed for its mixology, hip bartenders and daily changing drinks menu, the Mechanics Institute is a key player in the small bar scene. Order a burger from the downstairs Flipside and your night is complete.

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WALISTINGS

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Photo: Thinkstock

IN THE SPOTLIGHT

KARIJINI NATIONAL PARK Karijini in the Pilbara region has some of Australia’s most spectacular scenery and oldest rocks in the world. Head to the “Miracle Mile” for the best lookouts, gorges and waterfalls all in one day. We recommend taking a dip in the natural spa pool at Hamersley Gorge, pictured.

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PERTH MUSIC Amplifier Capital amplifiercapitol.com.au Astor liveattheastor.com.au Belgian Beer Cafe belgianbeer.com.au Perth Arena pertharena.com.au Metro Cityl metroconcertclub.com The Bakery nowbaking.com.au The Ellington Jazz Club ellingtonjazz.com.au The Rosemount Hotel rosemounthotel.com.au The Newport Hotel thenewport.com The Beat Megaclub thebeatmegaclub.com.au Universial Bar universalbar.com.au Ya-Ya’s ya-yas.com.au

FREO STAY Backpackers Inn Freo 11 Pakenham St. 08 9431 7065, backpackersinnfreo.com.au Old Firestation Backpackers 18 Phillimore St. 08 9430 5454, oldfirestation.com.au Sundancer Backpackers Resort 80 High St. 08 9336 6080, sundancerbackpackers.com Pirates Backpackers Resort 11 Essex St. 08 9335 6653, piratesbackpackers.com.au

FREO DO Fremantle Markets Henderson Street Fremantle 08 9335 2515, fremantlemarkets.com.au Fremantle Prison 1 The Terrace. 08 9336 9200, backpackersinnfreo.com.au The Shipwreck Galleries Cliff St, 08 9212 3700, museum.wa.gov.au Fremantle Arts Centre 1 Finnerty Street. 08 9432 9555, fac.org.au Spare Parts Puppet Theatre 1-9 Short St. 08 9335 5044, backpackersinnfreo.com.au

ROTTNEST ISL Rottnest Island YHA Kingstown Barracks. 08 9372 9780, yha.com.au

Rottnest Express 1 Emma Place North Fremantle 1300 Go Rotto rottnestexpress.com.au

MARGARET RIVER Margaret River Lodge YHA 220 Railway Tce. 08 9757 9532, yha.com.au Harmony Forest 248 Sebbes Rd. 08 9757 7055, harmonyforest.com.au

$27fully ensuited from

per night

with

FREE breakfast

Surfpoint 12 Riedle Drive Prevally 08 9757 1777 surfpoint.com.au

ALBANY Albany Bayview Backpackers YHA 49 Duke St 08 9842 3388, yha.com.au Cruize-Inn 122 Middleton Rd. 08 9842 9599, cruise-inn.com

alconie s with b All room

MONKEY MIA Monkey Mia Dolphin Lodge Monkey Mia Road Monkey Mia 1800 653 611, monkeymia.com.au

Comfortable

bunks

NINGALOO REEF Blue Reef Backpackers 3 Truscott Crescent, Exmouth 1800 621 101, aspenparks.com.au

Tropic

al pool

area

Ningaloo Club Coral Bay 08 9948 5100, ningalooclub.com Excape Backpackers YHA Murat Rd, Exmouth. 08 9949 1200, yha.com.au

BROOME STAY Cable Beach Backpackers 12 Sanctuary Road. 1800 655 011, cablebeachbackpackers.com Kimberley Club 62 Fredrick St 08 9192 3233, kimberleyklub.com

CORAL BAY Ningaloo Club Robinson St ningalooclub.com

ESPERANCE Blue Waters Lodge YHA 299 Goldfields Rd, yha.com.au

Cafe

& pool

table

• • • • • •

Swimming pool ALL rooms have air conditioning FREE on-site parking FOXTEL Internet café and WIFI Within walking distance of city and Northbridge • All rooms have private bathroom including the dorms

WINNER BEST HOSTEL IN WA 2007 FINALIST 2008-2013

EXMOUTH Pete’s Exmouth Backpackers YHA Cnr Truscott Cres & Murat Rd yha.com.au

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NTLISTINGS

DARWIN STAY Banyan View Lodge Darwin 119 Mitchell St. 08 8981 8644, banyanviewlodge.com.au

KATHERINE STAY

CHECK IN

BIG4 Katherine Holiday Park 20 Shadforth Road. 1800 501 984, big4.com.au

Darwin YHA 97 Mitchell St. 08 8981 5385, yha.com.au

Palm Court Kookaburra Backpackers Third St. 08 8972 2722

Elkes Backpackers 112 Mitchell St. 1800 808 365, elkesbackpackers.com.au

KATHERINE DO

Frogshollow Backpackers 27 Lindsay St. 1800 068 686, frogs-hollow.com.au

Airborne Solutions Scenic helicopter flights. 08 8972 2345 airbornesolutions.com.au

Gecko Lodge 146 Mitchell St. 1800 811 250, geckolodge.com.au Melaleuca on Mitchell 52 Mitchell St. 1300 723 437, momdarwin.com

ALICE LODGE 4 Mueller St, Alice Springs. Dorms $22 This quirky hostel offers superb access to the Red Centre and an outback full of wonder, red earth and giant monoliths just waiting to be explored.

Youth Shack 69 Mitchell St. 1300 793 302, youthshack.com.au

DARWIN DO Crocosaurus Cove Crocodile park and cage of death. 58 Mitchell St. 08 8981 7522, crocosauruscove.com Deckchair Cinema Jervois Rd, Darwin Waterfront. 08 8981 0700, deckchaircinema.com.au

Nitmiluk Tours Gorge cruises and kayak hire. 1300 146 743 nitmiluktours.com.au

Alice Springs

alicelodge.com.au

Fannie Bay Gaol Heritage prison. East Point Road, Fannie Bay. 08 8941 2260, nt.gov.au Museum & Art Gallery of the Northern Territory 19 Conacher St, Bullocky Point. 08 8999 8264, magnt.nt.gov.au

Oz Jet Boating Stokes Hill Wharf. 1300 135 595, ozjetboating.com.au Spectacular Jumping Crocodile Cruise Adelaide River. 08 8978 9077, jumpingcrocodile.com.au Wave Lagoon Waterfront Precinct. waterfront.nt.gov.au

TENNANT CREEK Tourist Rest Leichardt St. 08 8962 2719, touristrest.com.au

ALICE SPRINGS Alice Lodge 4 Mueller St. 08 8953 1975, alicelodge.com.au Alice Springs YHA Cnr Parsons St & Leichhardt Tce. 08 8952 8855, yha.com.au Annie’s Place 4 Traeger Ave. 1800 359 089, anniesplace.com.au

@tnt_downunder

Haven Resort 3 Larapinta Drive. 1800 794 663, alicehaven.com.au Toddy’s Resort 41 Gap Rd. 1800 027 027, toddys.com.au

ALICE DO Alice Springs Desert Park Larapinta Drive. 08 8951 8788, alicespringsdesertpark.com.au Alice Springs Reptile Centre Meet and hold lizards. 9 Stuart Terrace. 08 8952 8900, reptilecentre.com.au Outback Ballooning Hot air balloon rides. 1800 809 790, outbackballooning.com.au Royal Flying Doctor Service Base Museum and operations room. Stuart Terrace. 08 8952 1129, flyingdoctor.net School of the Air Long-distance schooling museum. 80 Head St. 08 8951 6834, assoa.nt.edu.au The Rock Tour Uluru tours. 78 Todd St. 1800 246 345, therocktour.com.au

THE DEVIL’S MARBLES The indigenously named Karlu Karlu Conservations Reserve, found 105km south of Tennant Creek and 393km north of Alice Springs, has been known as the Devil’s Marbles since 1870 when John Ross reported in the Australian Overland Telegraph Line expedition, “This is the Devil’s country; he’s even emptied his bag of marbles around the place!” You can certainly see what he was getting at.

Photo: Facebook

IN THE SPOTLIGHT

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NTLISTINGS

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IN THE SPOTLIGHT

ULURU NATIONAL PARK A rocky beacon of ancient culture meets modern-day tourism magnet. The pitted, weathered face of this grand old stone monolith has seen countless generations of humans come and go and still stands strong and true where it has stood for millennia. Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll never forget the first time you see Uluru up close.

Fly to Alice Springs from SYD/MELB from

$89.95

one way with Tiger Air TNTDOWNUNDER.COM

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r or you f n o i t tures moda accom aland adven e New Z ess acc irect to Book d r savings: e memb 2 191 4 2 0 0 8 .nz 1 yha.co @ k boo z .co.n or yha

With 45+ New Zealand hostels, you can skydive 134 metres in 8 seconds or plummet screaming on a bungy and still sleep soundly! YHA have got your accommodation sorted. Easy as. TNT-OZ-halfpage.pdf 2 25/09/2013 1:17:06 p.m.

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NZ TRAVEL TRAVEL IDEAS | BIG TRIP | NORTH & SOUTH ISLAND LISTINGS ONCE IN A LIFETIME /6 Is it possible to see all of New Zealand in just 29 days? It is. Francesca Baker takes on Kiwi Experience’s fast paced and intense – yet utterly mesmerising – once-in-a-lifetime tour.

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Kiwi Experience Photos: Supplied by Kiwi Experience and Francesca Baker. Thinkstock.

NEW ZEALAND

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NZTRIP

Experience of a lifetime See the whole of New Zealand with Kiwi Experience in just 29 days, and you’ll still remember it 29 years later, says Francesca Baker

Back in 1989, three Kiwi guys got back from travelling, feeling the emotions many do after being away for a while: exhilarated by the experience and full of appreciation for their home country. So they decided to combine the two and create a product that would allow people to discover New Zealand with the guide of locals, but with the freedom that being a ‘traveller’ allows. Kiwi Experience was born. Some 25 years on, those green buses have shown more than 400,000 passengers around this glorious country. Glittering lakes, broad blue skies, spikey mountain ranges, vast green fields, modern and creative cities, and friendly, welcoming people, it’s no wonder that so many visitors to New Zealand leave completely enamoured by the country. So, I thought, why not see what Kiwi Experience can do for my kiwi experience? First, though, I had to pick what suited me best out of the 25 different pass options available. The passes cover different routes around some or all of the 19 main stops across the North and South Islands, with no real time constraints. Many travellers choose to cover the whole country in the minimum

29 days suggested. It’s a fast-paced and intense tour, and so Kiwi drivers (also your guides) know their stuff, sorting accommodation, tours and deals all over, in order to lessen the time planning and increase the time experiencing. If you have more time, the flexibility of the pass means that when you see somewhere you like, you can simply hop off the bus, get out and enjoy it, and hop back on later. This appealed to me and I did it a lot, in Kaikoura, Taupo, Queenstown, Wellington and others, as well as spending time in non-official spots such as Picton, so that I could spend four days tramping the Queen Charlotte Track. I have no doubt that the travel consultants on the end of the phone and email were screaming and baffled as I changed my plans so many times, but they always greeted me with a friendly ‘kia ora’ and said that it was all ‘sweet as!’. It’s the Kiwi way. So anyway, let’s start in Queenstown. Lots of people do. As we drive in, the bus is filled with a cacophony of ‘coos’ and ‘wows’ – it’s bloody beautiful. Lake Wakatipu is deliriously blue, and the glistening Remarkables range behind it is, well, remarkable. It is the ultimate backpacker bus destination, ›› TNTDOWNUNDER.COM

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attracting more than 1.9 million visitors a year, and catering for them with bars, ice cream shops and pizza joints, and the biggest bunch of adventure activities imaginable. For those so inclined, the Kiwi bus stops off at Kawarau Gorge to enable people to hurl themselves off it: this is with AJ Hackett, the king of the bungee. At 134m, the Nevis High Wire is the highest in the country, and not for the faint hearted. An advantage of travelling on a coach is that there are 50-odd ‘friends’ there to support/bully, and so we all crowded around to watch the madder souls ping off the 1880-built suspension bridge. I passed, but agreed it was a gorgeous place to throw yourself off something while attached to a piece of elastic, and the squeals were apparently indicative of enjoyment. They came back alive. And were rewarded with drinks that night.

Bungeeeeeeeee

The other spot famed for thrills is Taupo, and by the time you leave this vast volcanic crater lake (bigger than Singapore) 60% of the bus will be rocking a Skydive Taupo T-shirt. The pink plane is notorious in town, the pumpedup music on board a lot of fun, and the way down almost indescribable (not good for a journalist!) – everyone comes off saying ‘wow’, the fusion of utter terror meets utter thrill a heady mix. I opt to stay a few days in Taupo, and so have time to enjoy what the lake has to offer at a slightly more sedate pace with Big Sky Parasail, a gentle glide in the air offering panoramic views, and aboard Fearless, a beautiful sailing boat which offers super-value 2.5 hour cruises, including a trip to the contemporary Maori carvings, a glass of wine and a Tim Tam. The other must do from Taupo is the Tongariro Crossing. Voted one of the world’s best one-day walks, this is a deceptively tough 19.6km hike across a billowing volcano, red craggy rocks and vast craters. It was unlike any trek I have ever undertaken before. The Emerald Lake, around 10km in, looks as though it has been infused with Kryptonite, but it’s 68

Queenstown

the slippy sliding descent down post Red Rocks that will stay in my mind. Do I stomp, pigeon step, slide on my bottom? I did all three. As my feet fell beneath me for a good 400 minutes, I did consider feigning an emergency. But I made it. The legs are still sore. And again, plenty of beer went down among those who made it. Though, to be honest, even without all these achievements, drinks would still go down. There’s no denying that the reputation Kiwi Experience has of being a party bus is generally pretty well-deserved. With most (but not all) of the crowd leaning towards the 18-21-year-old gap-year trip, the party mentality is present, and Kiwi knows the best places to get your drinks on and your rocks off. Some of the best nights were in the middle of nowhere, staying in holiday parks, bringing some drinks, and cooking together. Take driver Wazza’s brilliant idea to have a barbecue at the Coromondel’s Hot Water Beach Holiday Park. Cooking for 50 is no easy task, but when everyone gets involved, the banter is flowing, and the meat cooking, there’s no better way to get to know the rest of your bus. Next we borrowed a spade and headed down to the beach to dig holes in the sand and bathe in the hot (up to 65°C) water, see the steam rise from the shoreline, and gaze up at the swathes of glittering stars. Maori culture is important, and the guides embrace it, teaching us words and facts. There’s a day trip to tapu (sacred) Cape Reinga, the most northerly point of New Zealand, where the Tasman meets the Pacific, and the spirits of the Maori dead leave this world from the next. Part of the journey from the chilled-out seaside town of Paihia, we also cruise up 90 Mile Beach (90km, but who’s counting) to see the waves hit the shore. Kiwis love their thrills, and so hello sandboarding. Speeds of up to 70km per hour can be achieved on the 150m-high Te Paki dunes – and when we see a bus-load of retirees whizzing down the dunes on their tummies, we have all got to give it a go. Less Maori, still Kiwi, on the way back it’s the best ‘fush and chups’ in NZ – although they all say that. The other spot famed for Maori culture is Rotorua, where we all go to the Te Maki evening, a tourist-focused Maori experience of dance and entertainment. A walk around the village where we play games, some of the guys in our group undertake a huka, and we eat a traditionally prepared hangi – a meal steamed underground in hot rocks. Reminiscent of a roast dinner, it’s a welcome variation from backpacker

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pasta for most of us. Despite Rotorua being the second most common spot for tourists to get tattoos, as far as I know, no one came away with a ‘ta moko’. Perhaps the explanation of how the Maori people literally gouged their skin and filled it with pigment from burnt caterpillar put them off. When travelling New Zealand you are blasted with opportunities to do and see things that you would never normally consider. Like hike a glacier. The Franz Josef Glacier is formidable. Some 35-45m of snow falls upon the glacier every year, causing depths of up to 350m of ice. The area of snow accumulation, called the Neve, is now 30km sq, bigger than the South Island’s second largest city, Christchurch. At 128m-long and 2,800m-high, it dwarfs man-made structures such as the 324m Eiffel Tower. But little old you and me can walk to it from the nearby town, through lush rainforests and a vast rugged galley, or on it, by getting a helicopter to the top. A mix of approaches was taken by the crowd I was with, but everyone had the same response – “Nature bloody rocks”.

Crayfish anyone?

NEED-TO-KNOW INFO WHERE TO STAY: Kiwi guarantee your first night’s accommodation and have good links with the Base chain, so whether it’s sky-high views in Auckland or chilling out in Paihia’s Pipi Patch Base, deals are available. They also know some top spots that are a little bit different, like the Hot Water Beach Top 10 Holiday Park, or River Valley, a family owned farmstead-cum-holiday park where horse riding and rafting are on offer, and many consider to be their NZ highlight. If you are sticking to a spot for a few nights and want something different, I recommend Funky Green in Rotorua for fresh eggs and feel-good vibes, Sequoia Lodge in Picton for nightly gooey hot chocolate cake, and Foley’s in Christchurch for English country garden style. WHAT TO EAT AND DRINK: Grab yourself a glug of L&P – a sort of herbal sherbettasting soft drink – and a pie, and blend in with the locals. In Wellington head to Cuba Street for a taste of the cool little capital with more bars per capita than New York; in Auckland tap up Base’s The Globe for cheap rounds, or head to Ponsonby for some quirky spots, and in Queenstown it’s all about the Kiwi Crawl. Five drinks and a free pizza? I’m in. Best bites include Oriental street food Chow in Wellington, Little Bird breakfasts in Auckland, and ‘fush and chups’ just about anywhere. WHAT TO DO: Jump out of a plane, tramp the world’s best routes, ping off a bit of elastic, raft down a canyon, drink famous wines, bathe in boiling water, paddle on black beaches, cross volcanoes. What can’t you do in New Zealand? It’s all part of the Kiwi Experience.

The natural world is also a huge draw in Kaikoura – which literally means eat (kai) crayfish (koura). I’m getting good at this Maori now. The marine capital of New Zealand, 13 of the world’s whale species are resident or regular visitors in the Pacific waters near here, and dolphins surround the bay. Mainly for the girls, I must be honest, the chance to swim with dolphins proved too much, and amid the squeals and splashes it was hard to tell which were the more intelligent species. Round the bay seals laze languidly on rocks, and as the waves hit the shore and the salty scent overwhelms, it’s easy to believe that you are in Cornwall. Especially when you see a sign for Torquay... Thankfully for a fidget like me, there’s tons of stops and walks en route, which also let you see places that you wouldn’t necessarily want to spend a whole night in, like a wander in the Ruakari Reserve before heading to Waikato and its glow worm-filled caves, the Punakaiki Pancake Rocks near Westport to see pink sheep at the revealingly named Sheep World in Warkworth north of Auckland, or swing by Bushmans Cafe in South Westland, where possom pie is on the menu. Even the travel bit of the trip isn’t bad. The drive down the West Coast is spectacular, from fjords to clear blue sea and white silica sand, to tussock-clad hills. The crystalline lakes through Otago are imposing, grand and marvellous, and the world-famous Tranz Alpine train zooms through 16 tunnels

Franz Joseph glacier

and 223km of the Southern Alps and New Zealand’s highest peak, Mount Cook. Take your trip on the bus with Kiwi Experience and you get the guidance of local people and advice on where to go; the chance to see a whole country in less than a month, or take a year at a more leisurely pace; a ready-made group of mates – and the chance to jump off the bus when those mates prove to be less matey; the option to whizz on round or spend longer in a spot that takes your fancy; and, of course, the knowledge that your big green bus is legendary. To summarise? It’s sweet as. TNTDOWNUNDER.COM

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AUCKLAND

CHECK IN

In Maori language the city’s name is Tamaki Makau Rau, which translates as “the city of 100 lovers”. Auckland is admired for its cosmopolitan flavour, its sunny harbour for the fact that it makes every other city in NZ feel like a small town.

Auckland Zoo See kiwi birds in the nocturnal house and over 900 animals. 09 360 3800, aucklandzoo.co.nz Coast to Coast Walkway A walk between Waitemata Harbour and Manukau Harbour. It takes about four hours and takes in Albert Park, Auckland Uni, Auckland Domain, Mt Eden, and One Tree Hill.

i-SITE Auckland Atrium, skycity, Cnr Federal & Victoria Sts Backpackers World Travel 16-20 Fort St, 09 300 9999, backpackersworld.com i-SITE Visitor Information 287 Queen St, 09 979 2333, aucklandnz.com Ferry Tickets Online (For inter-island ferry services) 39 Beach Rd, 0800 500 660, ferrytickets.co.nz Department of Conservation Auckland Details on tramping, camping grounds, the Gulf Islands and exploring the regional parks. 137 Quay St Cnr, Princes Wharf, open Mon-Fri (9am-5am); SatSun (10am-4pm), 09 379 6476 Airport Transport The airport is 21km from the city and shuttle buses run every half an hour. Airbus Airport is every 20 mins. 0800 247 287, airbus.co.nz City buses Tickets and timetables are available from the 10 central city Star Mart stores. 09 366 6400, maxx.co.nz Auckland InterCity Travel Centre Buses around Auckland and the rest of New Zealand leave from here. Located beside the casino, Hobson St, 09 583 5780, intercity.co.nz Train Intercity trains arrive and depart from Britomart, 12 Queen St, Auckland. 09 366 6400, transdev.co.nz

AUCKLAND STAY Airport Skyway Lodge Backpackers (BBH) 30 Kirkbride Road, Mangere. 09 275 4443, skywaylodge.co.nz Auckland International Backpackers (BBH) 2 Churton St, Parnell. +64358 4584, aucklandinternationalbp.com Base Backpackers Auckland 229 Queen St. 09 358 4877, stayatbase.com Bamber House (BBH) 22 View Rd, Mt Eden. 09 623 4267, bbh.com BK Hostel (BBH) 3 Mercury Ln, Central. 09 307 0052, bkhostel.co.nz

SURF ‘N’ SNOW BACKPACKERS 102 Albert St, Auckland. Dorms from $22 Set just across from Auckland’s Sky Tower, Surf ‘n’ Snow Backpackers offers good accommodation at even better prices.

Auckland

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City Garden Lodge (BBH) 25 St Georges Bay Rd, Parnell. 09 302 0880 citygardenlodge.co.nz City Groove Backpackers (BBH) 6 Constitutional Hill, Parnell. 09 303 4768. Kiwi International Hotel 411 Queen St. 0800 100 411, kiwihotel.co.nz Auckland Airport Kiwi Hotel 150 McKenzie Road, Mangere. 09 256 0046, kiwiairporthotel.co.nz

09 378 8990, uenukulodge.co.nz Surf ‘n’ Snow Backpackers 102 Albert St. 09 363 8889, surfandsnow.co.nz The Brown Kiwi (BBH) 7 Prosford St, Ponsonby. 09 378 0191, brownkiwi.co.nz Verandahs (BBH) 6 Hopetown St. 09 360 4180, verandahs.co.nz

Lantana Lodge (BBH) 60 St Georges Bay Rd, Parnell. 09 373 4546, lantanalodge.co.nz

YHA Auckland City 18 Liverpool St. 09 309 2802, yha.co.nz

The Fat Camel (Nomads) 38 Fort St. 09 307 0181, nomadsworld.com

YHA Auckland International 5 Turner St. 09 302 8200, yha.co.nz

Borders Beyond 8 Nixon St, Grey Lynn. 09 360 9880, bordersbeyond.co.nz Nomads Auckland 16-20 Fort St. 09 300 9999, nomadshostels.com Oaklands Lodge (BBH) 5A Oaklands Rd, Mt Eden. 09 638 6545, oaklands.co.nz Pentlands (BBH) 22 Pentland Ave, Mt Eden. +64 9638 7031 pentlands.co.nz Ponsonby Backpackers (BBH) 2 Franklin Rd, Ponsonby. 09 360 1311, ponsonby-backpackers.co.nz Princeton Backpackers 30 Symonds St. 09 963 8300, princeton.net.nz Queen Street Backpackers 4 Fort St. 09 373 3471, qsb.co.nz Uenuku Lodge (BBH) 217 Ponsonby Rd, Ponsonby.

AUCKLAND DO Explorer Bus Sightseeing around Auckland, 0800 439 756 explorerbus.co.nz Sealink Ferries can take you all over the harbour. Info about timetables and destinations are available online on the Sealink website. 0800 732 546, sealink.co.nz America’s Cup Sailing Experience A unique opportunity to participate as crew on an actual America’s Cup yacht. Take the helm, exert energy on the grinders or simply sit back and enjoy the action as you sail the beautiful Waitemata Harbour. The two hour sails departs daily from the Auckland Viaduct. No experience necessary. 09 359 5987, explorenz.co.nz Auckland Museum See the world’s finest collection of Maori and Pacific Island artefacts. Explore New Zealand’s natural history, discover the largest bird that

Devonport A 15-minute ferry or bus ride across the harbour on the north shore, Devonport is an idyllic setting for a picnic or a stroll along the beach. Kelly Tarlton’s Antarctic Encounter & Underwater World A seawater aquarium with a moving walkway through a transparent underwater cavern. Antarctic Encounter is a recreation of an Antarctic environment where you jump on a snow mobile and tour a penguin colony, get attacked by an orca whale. Orakei Wharf, Tamaki Drive. 0800 80 50 50, kellytarltons.co.nz Mt Eden The highest point in the city, 4km south of the city centre with spectacular views. Get there by bus. NZ National Maritime Museum The museum celebrates NZ’s maritime heritage. 09 373 0800, nzmaritimemuseum.co.nz

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sheltered waters of Auckland’s Waitemata Harbour and is world famous for its sailing and dining cruises. Join them for a coffee, lunch, dinner, Waiheke sailing experience cruise or a full-day sailing adventure and experience the “City of Sails” for what it is known for. 0800 397 567, exploregroup.net Auckland Bridge Climb Up and over the Auckland Harbour Bridge. Westhaven Reserve, Curran St, Herne Bay. 09 360 7748, bungy.co.nz Auckland Harbour Bridge Jump NZ’s only ocean touch bungy, 40m high. Westhaven Reserve, Curran St, Herne Bay. 09 360 7748, bungy.co.nz Canyonz Ltd Explore subtropical canyons and abseil down crashing waterfalls. 0800 422 696, canyonz.co.nz New Zealand Surf Tours Learn to surf on uncrowded, beautiful beaches. 09 828 0426, newzealandsurftours.com Sky Jump Fall from the top of the 192m Sky Tower, 0800 759 586, skyjump.co.nz Sky Walk Walk around the external 1.2m wide platform, 192m up. 0800 759925, skywalk.co.nz Fullers Bay of Islands Tours One, two and three-day tours from Auckland. 09 367 9111, fullers.co.nz

Ponsonby West of the city, explore Victorian architecture and narrow streets with cafés, bars, clothes shops, art galleries and Awesome Adventures Three-day Bay of Islands tours. some lively nightlife. 0800 658 058, awesomenz.com Queen Street Auckland’s main boulevard with Beaches shops, cafés and restaurants. Auckland is surrounded by great beaches, including Judges Bay, Whale & Dolphin Safari Kohimarama, Okahu Bay, St See whales and dolphins from Heliers Bay and popular Mission Auckland’s doorstep. The Hauraki Gulf is considered one Bay. of the most biologically and Aotea Square Markets geographically diverse marine Every Friday and Saturday at parks in the world. See Aotea Square, Queen St. NZ dolphins, whales, sea birds and/ fashion labels, retro gear, foods, or even penguins. Dolphins are Pacific-style crafts, jewellery viewed on over 90% and whales and furniture, on 75% of trips. Departs daily 09 309 2677, from the Auckland Viaduct. the-edge.co.nz Dolphin viewing guaranteed. 09 357 6032, Victoria Park Market exploregroup.co.nz 3km from the CBD, an outdoor market with fruit, veggies, Fullers Cruises books, clothes and handicrafts. Inner harbour cruises and longer cruises to Hauraki Gulf islands, with all-day passes and hop-on, GREAT BARRIER hop-off options. 09 367 9111, This unique island destination is fullers.co.nz dominated by a native forest a network of criss-crossing tracks. Pride of Auckland thebarrier.co.nz The Pride of Auckland operates an impressive fleet of large, Orama Oasis purpose-built yachts on the Karaka Bay Rd,

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09 429 0063, orama.org.nz Stray Possum Lodge (VIP) Stray Possum Lodge is situated on the beautiful Hauraki Gulf 09 429 0109, straypossum.co.nz

BARRIER DO Fullers Cruises Depart from the Ferry Building. 09 367 9111, fullers.co.nz Great Barrier Airlines Fly out of Auckland Airport or Auckland Shore Airfield. 09 275 6612, greatbarrierairlines.co.nz Fullers Great Barrier Explorers Cruise and tours, summer only (October-April). 09 367 9111, fullers.co.nz

WAIHEKE ISLAND A 35-minute ferry ride from Auckland. It is popular for its long sweeping beaches and craft shops. Hekerua Lodge Backpackers (BBH) 11 Hekerua Rd, Oneroa, 09 372 8990, hekerualodge.co.nz Kina Backpackers 421 Seaview Road, Onetangi, 09 372 8971, kinabackpackers.co.nz

HELENSVILLE The hot springs here have indoor and outdoor thermal pools and waterslides. Malolo House (BBH) 110 Commercial Rd, 09 420 7262, helensville.co.nz

HIBISCUS COAST Orewa Beach Hillary Square, Orewa 09 426 2638, orewabeach.co.nz Marco Polo Backpackers Inn (BBH) 2d Hammond Ave, Orewa North, 0800 426 8455, orewabackpackers.co.nz

SAIL ROCK Hen & Chickens Island and Sail Rock These offshore areas offer great sailing and diving. Boat trips leave from the area daily. Waipu Wanderer (BBH) 25 St Marys Rd, 09 432 0532 bbh.co.nz

WHANGAREI Whangarei I-SITE Visitor Centre 92 Otaika Rd, 09 438 1079 whangareinz.com

WHANGAREI STAY Bunkdown Lodge (BBH) 23 Otaika Road, 09 438 8886, bunkdownlodge.co.nz Little Earth Lodge (BBH) 85 Abbey Caves Road, 09 430 6562, littleearthlodge.co.nz Piano Hill Farm (BBH) Piano Hill, Kauri, 09 433 7090, thefarm.co.nz YHA Whangarei Manaakitanga 52 Punga Grove Ave, 09 438 8954, yha.co.nz

WHANGAREI DO Dive! Tutukaka Poor Knights Islands dives, plus tours with kayaking, cave explorations, snorkelling, swimming, sea mammal-spotting.

PAIHIA Paihia is one of the most beautiful towns on the North Island with equal parts love for adventure, nature and a raucous nightlife. AwesomeNZ Tours include Maori mythology, dolphin swimming and fast boats. Maritime Building, on the waterfront, 09 402 7421, awesomenz.com Bay of Islands i-Site The Wharf, Marsden Rd, 09 402 7345, paihia.co.nz

PAIHIA STAY Base Backpackers Bay of Islands 18 Kings Rd 09 402 7111, stayatbase.com Captain Bob’s Beachhouse (BBH) 44 Davis Crescent, 09 402 8668, capnbobs.co.nz Centabay Lodge (BBH) 27 Selwyn Rd, 09 402 7466, centabay.co.nz Admirals View Motel 2 MacMurray Rd, 09 402 6236, admiralviewlodge.co.nz Mousetrap (BBH) 11 Kings Rd, 09 402 8182, mousetrap.co.nz Peppertree Lodge (BBH) 15 Kings Rd, 09 402 6122, peppertree.co.nz Pickled Parrot Backpackers Grey’s Lane, 09 402 6222, pickledparrot.co.nz Saltwater Lodge (BBH) 14 Kings Rd, 09 402 7075, saltwaterlodge.co.nz

PAIHIA DO Haruru Falls Picturesque falls offering swimming, camping and kayaking opportunities – and a pub! Opua Forest The DOC provides a leaflet of forest walks, which features a small stand of Kauri trees. Drive into the forest via Oromahoe Rd or walk from School Rd. Te Rawhiti Cape Brett Walkway Guided tours include experienced local Maori guides, all meals, hut accommodation, transport by boat to hut taking in the famous Hole in the Rock, Maori culture, myths and legends and hangi, capebrettwalks.co.nz Waitangi Treaty Grounds The site where the historic Treaty of Waitangi was signed. Also see carvings that represent all Maori tribes in NZ and one of the largest ceremonial waka (canoe) in the world, launched every Waitangi Day (Feb 6). 09 402 7437, waitangi.net.nz Boat cruises & dolphin watching Cape Brett “Hole in the Rock” Cruise Four-hour cruises, dolphincruises.co.nz Dolphin Discoveries With the warmest water and friendliest dolphins (bottlenoses), this is a great place for swimming with the dolphins (conditions permitting). The high-speed luxury catamaran offers easy access to the water and hot showers. Or do a “Hole in the Rock and Dolphin Viewing Experience” and see dolphins, whales, birds and other wildlife. Visit Otehei Bay on Urupukapuka Island during your island stop and explore this amazing place. 0800 000 784, exploregroup.co.nz Dune Rider Unique Adventure Tour Make your way up to Cape Reinga while traveling to the Gumdiggers Park and drive along the famous Ninety Mile Beach. Climb huge sand dunes and boogie board back down on the way and stop at the world famous Mangonui Fish Shop for fish and chips. Departing daily from Paihia. exploregroup.co.nz Sale Lion New Zealand: “The Ultimate Day Sail in the Bay” Join Lion New Zealand, NZ’s legendary maxi yacht. The friendly crew will show you the ropes and share the stories of the Bay and Legend of Sir Peter Blake. 0800 000 784, exploregroup.co.nz Awesome Cape Reinga Via Ninety Mile Beach – learn Maori myths and legends, navigate the quicksand stream, ride the dunes, visit a thousand year old forest. 0800 653 339, awesomenz.com

RUSSELL

KARIKARI PENIN

Catch a ferry to Russell, originally a sprawling fortified Maori settlement. Information Centre End of the Pier, Russell 09 403 8020, exploregroup.co.nz

KAITAIA

RUSSELL STAY

The ideal starting point for Cape Reinga and Ninety Mile Beach.

The Coast Road Farm Coast Rd, Whangaruru, 09 433 6894, thefarm.co.nz Pukeko Cottage 14 Brind Rd, 09 403 8498, pukekocottagebackpackers.co.nz Pipi Patch Backpackers 18 Kings Road, 09 403 7111.

A highlight of the sparsely populated town is the wonderful Maori village. There is also an historic Maori pa (fortress) and the Kerikeri Mission Station. kerikeri.co.nz

KERIKERI STAY

Mainstreet Lodge 235 Commerce St, 09 408 1275 mainstreetlodge.co.nz

Ancient Kauri Kingdom Giant kauri tree stumps are fashioned into furniture and other trinkets. Far North Regional Museum Featuring all kinds of goodies, like the skeleton of a giant moa bird and salvages from local shipwrecks. Pack or Paddle Thoms Landing, 09 4098 445, packorpaddle@hotmail.com

Kerikeri Top 10 Holiday Park & Aranga Backpackers Aranga Drive off Kerikeri Rd, 0800 272 642, kerikeritop10.co.nz

AHIPARA Ahipara Holiday Park 168-170 Takehe St, 09 409 4864, ahiparaholidaypark.co.nz

Hideaway Lodge Wiroa Rd, 0800 562 746 kerikeri.co.nz Hone Heke Lodge (BBH) 65 Hone Heke Rd, 09 407 8170, honeheke.co.nz

Endless Summer Lodge (BBH) 245 Foreshore Rd, 09 409 4181, endlesssummer.co.nz

Kerikeri Farm Hostel (BBH) Springbank Rd, 09 407 6989, kerikeri.co.nz

AHIPARA DO

MATAURI BAY A very well-kept tourist secret, Matauri Bay is Maori land, home to the Ngati Kura people, and has beautiful, quiet beaches. The Welcome Swallow Backpackers 249 Hikuru Rd, Off Matauri Bay Rd, 09 405 1019, welcomeswallow.com

Tuatua Tours Guided quad tours of Ninety Mile Beach sand dunes. 3 Main Road, 0800 494 288, tuatuatours.co.nz

HOKIANGA Heading south, you’ll hit Hokianga Harbour and the quiet twin towns of Omapere and Opononi. The Koutu Boulders are worth a look.

The Rainbow Warrior A monument to the noble but doomed Greenpeace ship, Rainbow Warrior, sits on the site of a Maori pa on the headland at Matauri Bay. Travellers come here to dive the ship’s wreck.

WHANGAROA This area was once well known for its Kauri forests, but these days it’s more about game fishing. The scenery is ruggedly spectacular and sailing cruises are popular.

Sunseeker Lodge (BBH) Old Hospital Rd, 09 405 0496, sunseekerlodge.co.nz

Pukenui Lodge Corner Wharf Rd & State Hwy 1, Houhora, 09 409 8837, pukenuilodge.co.nz

KAITAIA DO

KERIKERI

Tourist info centre Boyd Gallery, 09 405 0230, whangaroa.co.nz

The Rusty Anchor (BBH) 1 Tokerau Beach Rd, 09 406 7141, rustyanchor.hostel.com

Hokianga Information 09 405 8869, hokianga.co.nz

HOKIANGA STAY Okopako Lodge (BBH) 140 Mountain Rd, Whirinaki, 09 405 8815, bbh.co.nz Globetrekkers Lodge (BBH) 281 State Highway 12, Omapere, 09 405 8183, globetrekkerslodge.com The Tree House Backpackers Lodge 168 West Coast Rd, Motukaraka 09 405 5855, treehouse.co.nz

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On the road from Hokianga, the famous “Big Trees”, the native kauri trees of Waipoua Kauri Forest. Once in Dargaville, attractions include the masts from the ill-fated Rainbow Warrior and the fascinating bird sanctuary nearby.

Dargaville Holiday Park 10 Onslow St, 09 439 8296, kauriparks.co.nz

Travellers Lodge (BBH) 64 Jellicoe Rd, Ruawai, 09 439 2283, bbh.co.nz Matakohe House B&B Hotel 24 Church Rd, RD1, 0800 492 452, matakohehouse.co.nz

WAIKATO Waikato District Info Centre 160 Great South Rd, Huntly, 07 828 6406, info@waikatodistrict.govt.nz, waikatodistrict.govt.nz Shekinah (BBH) 122 Pungapunga Rd, Pukekawa, 09 233 4464, shekinahbackpackers.co.nz Raglan Kopua Holiday Park Marine Parade, Raglan, 07 825 8283, stay@raglanholidaypark.co.nz, raglanholidaypark.co.nz

HAMILTON NZ’s largest inland city and is known for its parks and gardens. Hamilton Visitor Centre Corner Caro and Alexandra St, Hamilton, 07 839 3580 visithamilton.co.nz DOC Office 73, Rostrevor St. 07 858 1000

HAMILTON STAY Backpackers Central 846 Victoria Street, 07 839 1928, backpackerscentral.co.nz Forty Winks (BBH) 267 River Rd, Claudelands, 07 855 2033, bbh.co.nz

WAITOMO

FORTY WINKS 267 River Rd, Claudelands. Dorms from $25 Cosy atmosphere, high ceilings and huge rooms are a feature of this cute Hamilton hostel popular with backpackers.

Kaihu Farm (BBH) 334 State Highway 12, Kaihu, 09 439 4004.

MATAKOHE

TE KUITI STAY Casara Mesa Backpackers (BBH) Mangarino Rd, 07 878 6697, bbh.co.nz

Otorohanga kiwi House & Native Bird Park 20 Alex Telfer Drive, 07 873 7391, kiwihouse.org.nz

DARGAVILLE STAY

The Greenhouse Hostel (BBH) 15 Gordon St, 09 439 6342, bbh.co.nz

OTOROHANGA Just 59km south of Hamilton, many travellers use this small farming community as a base for visiting the Waitomo Caves. Otorohanga Visitor Info Centre 27 Turongo St, 07 873 8951, otorohanga.co.nz

Dargaville Info Centre 4 Murdoch St, 09 439 4975, dargaville.co.nz

Hamilton

bbh.co.nz

J’s Backpackers (BBH) 8 Grey Street, 07 856 8934, jsbackpackers.co.nz Eagle’s Nest Backpackers 937 Victoria St, 07 838 2704, eaglesbackpackers.co.nz Microtel YHA 140 Ulster St, 07 957 1848, microtel.co.nz YWCA Hostel Cnr Clarence & Pembroke St, 07 838 2219, hamilton.ywca.org.nz

HAMILTON DO Waikato Museum of Art & History Cnr Victoria and Grantham Sts. More than 3,000 items, with a permanent Maori War canoe. Gold coin donations welcomed.

MATAMATA Rural town famous for being turned into Hobbiton in those films – some of the set still stands. Hobbiton Movie Set Tours 501 Buckland Rd, Hinuera, 07 888 1505, office@hobbitontours.com

CAMBRIDGE This very Olde English town with its town square and abundance of trees is in the heart of Waikato. The region is famous for its horses and jetboating. Cambridge Info Centre Cnr Queen and Victoria Sts, 07 823 3456 cambridge.co.nz

RAGLAN One of New Zealand’s best-known surfing beaches, Raglan is situated 48km west of Hamilton. Raglan Information Centre 2 Wainui Rd,

07 825 7076, ragland.org.nz

RAGLAN STAY Solscape Eco Retreat Backpackers 611 Wainui Rd, 07 825 8268, solscape.co.nz Raglan Backpackers 6 Wi Neera St, 07 825 0515, raglanbackpackers.co.nz Karioi Backpacker Lodge (VIP, BBH) & Raglan Surfing School 5 Whaanga Rd, Whale Bay, 07 825 7873, karioilodge.co.nz Dream View Farmstays 430 Te Hutewai Rd, 07 825 8186 dreamview.co.nz Raglan Kopua Holiday Park 61 Marine Parade, 07 825 8283, raglanholidaypark.co.nz Raglan Farmhouse and Flashpackers 61 Marine Parade, 07 825 8747, raglanfarmstay.com

TE AWAMUTU Given that it calls itself the “Rose Town of New Zealand”, it’s not surprising the 2,000-strong Rose Garden is the town’s major attraction. Te Awamutu Info Centre 1 Gorst Ave, 07 871 3259, teawamutuinfo.com Te Awamutu District Museum 135 Roche St. 07 872 0085 tamuseum.org.nz

KAWHIA The main attraction of this peaceful port town, 55km south of Raglan, is the Maketu Marae where you can experience the rich cultural tapestry of NZ’s indigenous history.

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Definitely one of the best adventure spots in New Zealand. There are a range of caving adventures here. Waitomo Caves Discovery Centre 21 Waitomo Caves Rd, 0800 474 839, waitomocaves.com

WAITOMO STAY Juno Hall (BBH) 600 Waitomo Caves Rd, 07 878 7649 junowaitomo.co.nz Kiwi Paka Hotel Caves 256, Access Rd, 07 878 3395 waitomokiwipaka.co.nz Rap Raft & Rock Backpackers (BBH) 95 Waitomo Caves Rd, 07 873 9149, bbh.co.nz

WAITOMO DO Dundle Hill Walk A two-day walk through native bush; limestone outcrops includes overnight with spectacular views at Kays Cabin. 07 878 7640 dundlehillwalk.com Marakopa Falls, Managapohue Natural Bridge and Piri Piri Cave, 30 minutes drive from Waitomo. Rap Raft ‘n’ Rock Blackwater adventures combining abseiling, rafting, glowworms, caving and rockclimbing all in one five-hour adventure. 0800 228 372, caveraft.com The Legendary Black Water Rafting Co Cave tubing in the blackness of the Ruakuri Cave river. 585 Waitomo Caves Rd, 07 878 6219, waitomo.com

TE KUITI

OTOROHANGA Just 59km south of Hamilton, many travellers use this small farming community as a base for visiting the Waitomo Caves. Otorohanga Visitor Info Centre 27 Turongo St, otorohanga.co.nz

OROMANDEL PEN A series of towns loop around the peninsula, broken by rolling green hills. Highlights include Hot Water Beach, Cathedral Cove and the cosy little Coromandel township.

THAMES A great canyoning spot, with loads of natural pools and waterslides. Information Thames 206 Poland St, 07 868 7284 thamesinfo.co.nz DOC Office Pahau St, 07 867 9180 doc.govt.nz

THAMES STAY Dickson Holiday Park 115 Victoria St, 07 868 7308, Gateway Backpackers (BBH) 209 Mackay St, 07 868 6339, bbh.co.nz Sunkist International Backpackers 506 Brown St, 07 868 8808, sunkistbackpackers.co.nz Te Aroha YHA Hostel Miro Street, Te Aroha (south of Thames), 07 884 8739, yha.co.nz

COROMANDEL Some 55km north of Thames is the town of Coromandel, home to the popular Driving Creek Railway. Coromandel Information Centre 335 Kapanga Rd, 07 866 8598, coromandeltown.co.nz

CORO STAY Anchor Lodge Backpackers (BBH) 448 Wharf Rd, 07 866 7992, anchorlodgecoromandel.co.nz Black Jack Backpackers (BBH) Kuaotunu, 07 866 2988, black-jack.co.nz

Te Kuiti Information Centre Rora St, 07 878 8077.

Colville Farm (BBH) 2140 Colville Road, Colville, 07 866 6820

Dept of Conservation 78 Taupiri Street, 07 878 1080.

Mahamudra Retreat Colville Rd, 07 866 6851 mahamudra.org.nz

Tiffany’s Cafe, 241 Rora St, 07 878 7640

Lions Den (BBH) 126 Te Tiki St, 07 866 8157 ionsdenhostel.co.nz

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Coromandel Top 10 Holiday Park (BBH) 636-732 Rings Rd, 07 866 8830, coromandeltop10.co.nz Tui Lodge (BBH) 60 Whangapoua Rd, 07 866 8237, coromandeltuilodge.co.nz

OPOUTERE This is a good place to go to just chill out. The beach here is glorious and generally empty. Skinny dip anyone? YHA Opoutere 389 Opoutere Rd, 07 865 9072, yha.co.nz

WHANGAMATA A real surfie town, Whangamata has one of the best surf beaches in New Zealand and a laidback atmosphere to match. Whangamata Info Centre 616 Port Rd, 07 865 8340 Southpacific Accommodation 245 Port Rd, 07 865 9580, thesouthpacific.co.nz Whangamata Backpackers Hostel (BBH) 227 Beverley Tce, 07 865 8323 Whangamata-backpackers.co.nz

WHITIANGA Whitianga, perched on pretty Mercury Bay, is the most popular stop-off point for travellers on the Coromandel. You can learn to make your very own bone carving, dive and surf to your heart’s content. Whitianga Information Centre 118 Oceanview Rd, 09 372 1234 whitianga.co.nz Baywatch Backpackers (VIP) 22 The Esplanade, 07 866 5481, whitianga.co.nz/baywatch Cathedral Cove Lodge 41 Harsant Ave, Hahei Beach, 07 866 3889, cathedralcove.co.nz Cat’s Pyjamas Backpackers (BBH) 12 Albert St, 07 866 4663, cats-pyjamas.co.nz Fernbird (BBH) 24 Harsant Ave, Hahei, 07 866 3080, bbh.co.nz On the Beach Backpackers Lodge (BBH, YHA) 46 Buffalo Beach Rd, 07 866 5380, onthebeachbackpackers.co.nz Seabreeze Tourist Park (BBH) 1043 SH25 Tairua-Whitianga Rd, 07 866 3050

Tatahi Lodge (BBH) 9 Grange Rd, Hahei, 07 866 3992, tatahilodge.co.nz

TAURANGA One of the fastest growing places in NZ, Tauranga combines a young population with a harbourside atmosphere. Enjoy diving, sailing, fishing and surfing. Tauranga i-site 95 Willow St, 07 578 8103 bayofplenty.co.nz Department of Conservation 253 Chadwick Rd West, 07 578 7677

TAURANGA STAY Appletree Cottage 47 Maxwell Rd, 07 576 4001 appletreebackpackers.co.nz

Just The Ducks Nuts Backpackers (BBH) 6 Vale St, 07 576 1366, justtheducksnuts.co.nz

TE PUKE STAY Hairy Berry Backpacker Hostel 2 No One Rd, Te Puke, 07 573 8015, work@hairyberrynz.com

Loft 109 (BBH) 8/109 Devonport Rd, 07 579 5638, loft109.co.nz

Kiwi Corral Backpackers 26 Young Road, 07 573 4530, kiwicorral.co.nz

Tauranga Central Backpackers 64 Willow St, 07 571 6222, tgabackpack.co.nz

Blue Tide Beachfront Retreat 7 Te Awhe Rd, Maketu Beach, 07 533 2033, bluetides.co.nz

YHA Tauranga 171 Elizabeth St, 07 578 5064, yha.co.nz

TE PUKE DO Kiwifruit Country Young Rd, 07 573 6340, kiwifruitcountry.co.nz

TAURANGA DO Butler’s Swim With Dolphins 101 Te Awanui Dr, 0508 288 537 Waimarino Adventure Park 07 576 4233, waimarino.com

Harbourside City Backpackers (BBH) 105 The Strand, 07 579 4066, backpacktauranga.co.nz

Coyote Bar and Restaurant 107 The Strand, 07 578 8968.

Bell Lodge (BBH) 39 Bell St, Judea, 07 578 6344, bell-lodge.co.nz

Te Puke Information Centre 130 Jellicoe St, 07 573 9172 tepuke.co.nz

TE PUKE

Gotcha Paintball, 720 State Highway 33, Paengaroa, 022 649 1158

WHAKATANE For a very different adventure, visit White Island, an active volcano where sulphur-lipped fumeroles and roaring steam vents create a stark wonderland. whakatane.com Karibu Backpackers (BBH) 13 Landing Rd, 07 307 8276 Whakatane Hotel 79 The Strand, 07 307 1670

Become part of the legend with New Zealand’s original Black Water Rafting company. Experience the exhilarating world of ancient caves, rivers, waterfalls and breath taking glowworms. Climb, leap and float with the Black Labyrinth or descend into the black, bottomless depths with the ultimate caving tour, the Black Abyss. Or try our newest adventure, the Black Odyssey, a caving and high wire ropes tour, that will push you to the limit.

NEW!

BOOK NOW! 0800 228 464 +64 7 878 6219 www.waitomo.com

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NORTHISLAND Windsor Lodge Backpackers 10 Merritt St, Whakatane, 07 308 8040, windsorlodge-backpackers.co.nz

WHAKATANE DO Dive White 168 The Strand, 0800 348 394, divewhite.co.nz White Island Tours Departs Whakatane daily. 15 The Strand. 07 308 9588 whiteisland.co.nz The Wharf Shed Restaurant 2/2 The Strand E. 07 308 5698 Roquette Restaurant & Bar 23/29 Quay St. 07 307 0722 Wallys on the Wharf 2 The Strand, 07 307 0722, wallysonthewharf.co.nz

ROTORUA Rotorua is a must for three reasons: the abundance of accessible Maori culture, the steaming volcanic scenery and adrenalin thrills. Tourism Rotorua & Visitor Info Centre 1167 Fenton St, 07 348 5179 rotoruanz.com

ROTORUA STAY Base Backpackers Rotorua 1286 Arawa St, 07 348 8636, stayatbase.com Cactus Jack Backpackers 1210 Haupapa St, 0800 122 228 cactusjackbackpackers.com YHA Rotorua 1278 Haupapa St, 07 349 4088, yha.co.nz Astray Motel & Backpackers 1202 Pukuatua St, 07 348 1200, astray.co.nz Blarney’s Rock Backpackers 1210 Tutanekai St, 07 343 7904, blarneysrock.com Crash Palace Backpackers 1271 Hinemaru St, 07 348 842, crashpalace.co.nz Kiwipaka 60 Tarewa Rd, 07 347 0931, kiwipaka.co.nz

Agroventures Five adrenalin activities in one adventure park, including bungy jumping, sprint boats and a wind tunnel. 1335 Paradise Valley Rd. 07 357 4747, agroventures.co.nz Hell’s Gate Mud baths to heal and stimulate your body hellsgate.co.nz Kaitiaki Adventures Extreme whitewater activities. Sledging and rafting trips on the Kaituna and Rangitaiki Rivers, 0800 338 736, kaitiaki.co.nz Off Road NZ Sprint car racing, Monster 4X4, 4WD Bush Safari and more, 07 332 5748, offroadnz.co.nz Polynesian Spa Historical hot mineral water bathing spa on the edge of Lake Rotorua, 07 348 1328, polynesianspa.co.nz Raftabout Whitewater rafting and sledging, 0800 723 822, raftabout.co.nz Skyline Skyrides Spectacular Get the best views and luge down 5km of tracks, or take the 150ft skyswing, 07 347 0027, skylineskyrides.co.nz

Tamaki Maori Village New Zealand’s Most Awarded Cultural Experience! Experience an evening of ceremonial ritual, powerful cultural performance, storytelling & hangi feasting. Hinemaru St, 07 349 2099 tamakimaorivillage.co.nz Whakarewarewa Thermal Village Maori village set amidst a landscape of geothermal wonders. Take a guided tour, see a cultural performance, check out Maori art. 07 349 3463, whakarewarewa.com

LAKE TAUPO Taupo Visitor Centre 30 Tongariro St, 07 376 0027, greatlaketaupo.com

TAUPO STAY Berkenhoff Lodge 75 Scannell St, 07 378 4909, berkenhofflodge.co.nz Riverstone Backpackers 222 Tautahanga Rd, 07 386 7004, riverstonebackpackers.com Rainbow Lodge 99 Titiraupenga St, 07 378 5754, rainbowlodge.co.nz Finns Global Backpackers 8 Tuwharetoa St, 07 377 0044, finnsglobal.co.nz

Waikite Hot Pools Natural hot spring water bathing. Provides private spas, BBQ area and campground facilities, 20 minutes south of Rotorua. hotpools.co.nz

Wairakei Lodge State Highway, 0800 737 678, budgetaccommodationtaupo. co.nz

Waimangu Volcanic Valley The location of the Pink and White Terraces which were destroyed in the 1886 volcanic eruption. waimangu.co.nz

Sportsman Lodge Backpackers Retreat 15 Taupahi Rd, 0800 366 208, sportsmanslodge.co.nz

Wet ‘n’ Wild Rafting Guided rafting options on five different rivers – the Wairoa, Rangitaiki, Kaituna, Motu and Mohaka, 0800 462 7238, wetnwildrafting.co.nz

Base Taupo 7 Tuwharetoa St, 07 377 4464, stayatbase.com

Zorb Rotorua Get harnessed inside the perspex Zorb before rolling head-over-heels downhill, 07 357 5100, zorb.com

MAORI CULTURE

Oasis Hostel/Backpackers 33A Tarewa Rd, 07 343 6563, oasishostel.co.nz

While you’re here, take the opportunity to see how the Maori lived before European settlment. The Maori Arts and Crafts Institute in Whakarewarewa is a good place to begin . nzmaori.co.nz.

Rotorua Central Backpackers 1076 Pukuatua St, 07 349 3285, rotoruacentralbackpackers.co.nz

NZ Maori Arts & Crafts Institute 07 348 9047 tepuia.com

Planet Nomad Backpackers 1080 Eruera St, 07 350 2550, rotoruaplanetbackpackers.co.nz

ROTORUA DO

BOOK NOW!

Taupo Urban Retreat 65 Heu Heu St, 0800 872 261, tur.co.nz Tiki Lodge 104 Tuwharetoa St, 0800 845 456, tikilodge.co.nz YHA Taupo 56 Kaimanawa St, 07 378 3311, yha.co.nz Silver Fern Lodge 118 Tamamutu St, 07 377 4929, silverfernlodge.co.nz Lake Maraetai Lodge 5 Totara Terrace, 07 882 8940, lake-maraetai-lodge.co.nz

TAUPO DO Craters of the Moon One of the most geothermally active areas in the region, full of boiling mud and steaming craters. Wairakei Park. cratersofthemoon.co.nz Huka Falls Take a relaxing walk up to Huka Falls where the water pours over the 35ft drop at up to 62,000 gallons per second. hukafalls.com

@tnt_downunder The Crossing Backpackers Erua Rd East, 07 892 2894, thecrossingbackpackers.co.nz Howards Lodge (BBH) Carroll St, National Park, 07 892 2827, howardslodge.co.nz Skotel Alpine Resort Whakapapa Village, 07 892 3715, skotel.co.nz

Hukafalls Jet Jetboating by the falls, 0800 485 2538, hukafallsjet.com

National Park Backpackers YHA (BBH) 4 Finlay St. The hostel runs transport to the Tongariro Crossing, 07 892 2870, npbp.co.nz

Rock ‘n’ Ropes Ropes Courses including the trapeze and Giant Swing. At Crazy Catz on Highway 5. 0800 244 508, rocknropes.co.nz

Pipers Lodge 18 Millar St, National Park Village, 07 8922 777, piperslodge.co.nz

Taupo Bungy Bungy from a platform 47m above the Waikato River. 202 Spa Rd. 0800 888 408, taupobungy.com

Ski Haus Carroll St, McKenzie St, 07 892 2854, skihaus.co.nz

Tongariro Crossing Transport and National Park Links From Taupo and Turangi during summer months (NovMay). 07 377 0435, thetongarirocrossing.co.nz Taupo Tandem Skydiving Skydive from up to 15,000 feet (over one minute freefall). Free shuttle, DVD and digital photos. Yellow Hangar, Taupo Airport. 0800 275 934, taupotandemskydiving.com

TURANGI On the southern shores of Lake Taupo, Turangi is known as the trout fishing capital of the world. It offers heaps of outdoor adventure activities and is a good base for venturing into the Tongariro National Park. Turangi Visitor Centre Tongariro St, 07 376 0027, turangi.co.nz

TURANGI STAY Turangi Kiwi Holiday Park 13 Te Reiti Tamara Grove, 07 386 8754, turangiholidaypark.co.nz Judges Pool Motel 92 Taupahi Rd, 07 386 7892, judgepoolmotel.co.nz Settlers Motel 24 Arahori St, 07 386 7745, settlersmotelturangi.co.nz Asure Parklands Motorlodge Cnr Arahori St & State Hwy 1, 07 386 7515, parklandsmotorlodge.co.nz

MT RUAPEHU The park’s showcase is Mt Ruapehu, an active volcano towering at 2,796m. Ruapehu Visitors’ Centre 54 Clyde St, 06 385 8427 visitruapehu.com Whakapapa Visitor Centre SH 48, Whakapapa Village, 07 892 3729 visitruapehudc.govt.nz

RANGITIKEI The Rangitikei District is a top destination for adventure sports. Amongst stunning scenery, you can navigate grade five whitewater and take the leap of elasticated faith from an 80m bungy. Rangitikei Farmstay 422 Makuhou Rd, 06 327 4495, rangitikeifarmstay.govt.nz River Valley Dorms Makuhou Rd 06 388 1444, rivervalley.co.nz

RANGITIKEI DO Mokai Gravity Canyon Extreme flying fox, bridge swing and bungy jump. 0800 802 864 River Valley Rafting and horse trekking. 06 388 1444, thelodge@rivervalley.co.nz

OPOTIKI

TONGARIRO

Opotiki Information Centre Cnr St John and Elliot Sts, 07 315 3031 opotikinz.com

Adventure Lodge & Motel (VIP) Carroll Street, National Park, 07 892 2991, adventurenationalpark.co.nz

Central Oasis Backpackers 30 King St, 07 315 5165, centraloasis@hotmail.com

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Fruit Forest Studio 197 Omarumutu Rd, 07 315 8143, fruitforest.co.nz

EAST CAPE As you head around the Cape the towns get tinier and the scenery more dramatic. At Te Araroa, you can thead around to the East Cape Lighthouse. Brians Place (BBH) 21 Potae St, Tokomaru Bay, 06 864 5870, bbh.co.nz Maraehako Bay Retreat (BBH) SH35, Whanarua Bay, 07 325 2648. maraehako.co.nz Wainui Beach Motel 34 Wairere Rd, 06 868 5882, wainuibeachmotel.co.nz

GISBORNE Flying Nun Backpackers (BBH) 147 Roebuck Rd, 06 868 0461, bbh.co.nz YHA Gisborne 32 Harris St, 06 867 3269, yha.co.nz

WAIROA Wairoa Visitor Information Centre Queen St, 06 838 7440 Haere Mai Cottage (BBH) 49 Mitchell Rd, 06 838 6817 DOC office for hut bookings Lake Waikaremoana, 06 837 3900

NAPIER Napier is a beautiful, surprising city. Its “pleasing to the eye” status is actually the result of an enormous earthquake which meant the entire town had to be rebuilt. Visitor Info Centre 100 Marine Parade, 06 834 1911 Depart of Conservation Office Marine Parade, 06 834 3111

NAPIER STAY Aqua Lodge (BBH) 53 Nelson Cres, 06 835 4523, bbh.co.nz Criterion Art Deco Backpackers (VIP, Roamfree) 48 Emerson St, 06 835 2059, criterionartdeco.co.nz Napier Prison Backpackers (BBH) 55 Coote Rd, 06 835 9933, getnicked@napierprison.com Waterfront Lodge & Backpackers (BBH) 217 Marine Pd, 06 835 3429, napierbackpackers.co.nz YHA Napier 277 Marine Parade, 06 835 7039, yha.co.nz

HASTINGS Hastings is 20km south of Napier and most notable for its fertile plains, which have given birth to a multitude of beautiful parks, gardens and farms. A1 Backpackers (BBH) 122 Stortford St, 06 873 4285, bbh.co.nz Glenross Lodge (BBH) Route 52, Rakaunui, 06 376 7288, bbh.co.nz Lochlea Farmstay (BBH) 344 Lake Rd, Wanstead, 06 8554 816 bbh.co.nz The Rotten Apple Backpackers (BBH) 114 Heretaunga St, 06 878 4363, rottenapple.co.nz AJ’s Backpackers Lodge (BBH) 405 Southland Rd, 06 878 2302, bbh.co.nz

TARANAKI Best known for its snow-capped mountain, Mt Taranaki. Peaceful and impressive, Taranaki has skifields, excellent surf beaches, great walking and climbing.

MOKAU Palm House Backpackers (BBH) 06835 7039, taranaki-bakpak.co.nz

NEW PLYMOUTH Taranaki’s major town is New Plymouth. One of NZ’s finest art galleries is here (the GovettBrewster Art Gallery). It hosts a great café. Department of Conservation 55A Rimu Street, 06 759 0350 New Plymouth Info Centre Puke Ariki, 65 St Aubyn Street, 06 759 0897, visitnewplymouth.co.nz

PLYMOUTH STAY Eco Inn (BBH) 671 Kent Rd, between Egmont Village and New Plymouth on SH3. 06 752 2765 bbh.co.nz Egmont Lodge (BBH, YHA) 12 Clawton St, 06 753 5720, yha.co.nz bbh.co.nz Seaspray House (BBH) 13 Weymouth St, 06 759 8934, bbh.co.nz Ducks & Drakes Backpackers (BBH) 48 Lemon St, 06 758 0404 bbh.co.nz Sunflower Lodge (BBH) 33 Timandra St, 06 758, 2842 bbh.co.nz

PLYMOUTH DO Brooklands Zoo Brooklands, New Plymouth, 06 759 6060, info@npdc.govt.nz

MT TARANAKI Stratford Heritage Lodge 103 Miranda St, 06 765 7482, eastern-taranaki.co.nz Taranaki Accommodation Lodge (BBH) 7 Romeo St, Stratford, 06 765 5444, info@mttaranakilodge.co.nz

TARANAKI DO Climbing Mount Taranaki It is possible to climb it and return to civilisation in one day, however the weather is notoriously volatile and you must always notify the DOC.

STRATFORD Stratford Information Centre Broadway Stratford (State Hwy 3), 06 765 6708, stratford.govt.nz Department of Conservation Pembroke Rd, 06 765 5144

SOUTH TARANAKI Information South Taranaki 55 High St, Hawera, 0800 111 323, southtaranaki.com Wheatly Downs Farmstay Backpackers (BBH) 484 Ararata Rd, Hawera, 06 278 6523, bbh.co.nz

WHANGANUI

Department of Conservation Office 717 Tremaine Ave, 06 350 9700

WELLY DO Cable car Walk down Lambton Quay and you will see a sign for the cable car which departs every 10 minutes past Kelburn Park to the Botanic Gardens, 04 472 2199

Grandma’s Place (BBH) 146 Grey St, 06 358 6928, bbh.co.nz Peppertree Hostel (BBH) 121 Grey St, 06 355 4054, bbh.co.nz

Cosmic Corner Funk Store The funkiest store in the universe. Check out the legal highs and chat to the staff, who will happily point you in the right direction for parties, events and scenic spots. 215 Cuba St, 04 801 6970, cosmiccorner.co.nz

WELLINGTON The nation’s capital is to many people, New Zealand’s most interesting city. Wellington Visitor Info Centre Corner of Victoria & Wakefield Sts, 04 802 4860, wellingtonnz.com DOC Information Centre 18 Manners St, 04 384 7770 Ferry to the South Island Boats to Picton on the South Island. Ferries can be booked up well in advance in holiday periods. Ferry Tickets Online 186 Victoria St, 0800 500 660, ferrytickets.co.nz

WELLY STAY Base Wellington 21-23 Cambridge Tce. 04 801 5666 stayatbase.com Cambridge Hotel (BBH) 28 Cambridge Tce. 04 385 8829, cambridgehotel.co.nz Downtown Wellington Backpackers (BBH) 1 Bunny St. 04 473 8482 bbh.co.nz

Zealandia Many of New Zealand’s rarest birds, reptiles and insects are living freely in this awardwinning conservation safe haven. Look for kiwis on a guided tour by torchlight. Times vary and bookings are essential. Waiapu Rd, Karori. 04 920 9200, visitzealandia.com Mount Victoria The views are breathtaking. It’s damn windy so make sure you’re wearing heavy shoes. Walk, drive or bus it. Museum of Wellington City & Sea Queens Wharf, 04 472 8904 Parliament House Free tours. Visit the Beehive, a uniquely designed centre of government with a distinct style of architecture, 04 471 9503 Te Papa – The National Museum Experience the earthquake simulation room, find out what the early settlers went through and visit Te Marae, Te Papa’s living modern marae. Free entry, Cable St, 04 381 7000, tepapa.govt.nz

YHA Whanganui 2 Plymouth St, 06 348 2301, yha.co.nz

Lodge in the City (VIP) 152 Taranaki St. 04 385 8560 lodgeinthecity.co.nz

Tamara Backpackers Lodge (BBH) 24 Somme Pde, 06 347 6300, tamaralodge.com

Wellywood Backpackers 58 Tory St, 04 381 3899, wellywoodbackpackers.co.nz

Wellington Zoo Located in Newtown and home to a wide variety of weird and wonderful animal and bird life, 04 381 6755

Nomads Capital 118/120 Wakefield St. 0508 666 237, nomadscapital.com

Harbour cruises The harbour is a handsome thing and the best way to fully appreciate its beauty is by boat.

Rosemere Backpackers (BBH) 6 McDonald Cres. 04 384 3041, backpackerswellington.co.nz

Wellington Rover Tours Small group day tours exploring Wellington, its stunning rugged coastline and the Lord of the Rings locations. 021 426 211, wellingtonrover.co.nz

Whanganui National Park The major attraction is the Whanganui River, snaking through picturesque scenery. Explore with a kayak or riverboat tour. Wanganui Information Centre 31 Taupo Quay, Whanganui, 06 349 0508, wanganui.com Department of Conservation Office 74 Ingestre St, 06 348 8475

PALMERSTON NTH Palmerston North Visitor Centre The Square, 06 350 1922, manawatunz.co.nz

Rowena’s Lodge 115 Brougham St. 04 385 7872, wellingtonbackpackers.co.nz Worldwide Backpackers (BBH) 291 The Terrace. 04 802 5590, worldwidenz.co.nz YHA Wellington City 292 Wakefield St. 04 801 7280 yha.co.nz

Beaches Wellington’s waterfront has cafés, restaurants and parks. Oriental Bay is good for a dip, but the water is cold and not always clean. It’s also good for a walk along the foreshore. If you are desperate for a swim, Scorching Bay is good or head up the coast towards Otaki where the best beaches in the region are found.

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SOUTHISLAND ABEL TASMAN The Abel Tasman National Park has great tramping with 56,000 acres to explore. The Coastal Track is one of the most popular walks in New Zealand, especially in summer when you can cool down at the stunning beaches. Nelson, Motueka and Marahau are all good bases for visiting the park. Sea kayaking is excellent here too.

ABEL DO Wilsons Abel Tasman Sea kayaking, water taxis and lodge accommodation. 03 528 2027, abeltasman.co.nz Abel Tasman Kayaks Ltd 0800 527 8022 abeltasmankayaks.co.nz

NELSON Nelson is seen as the “sunshine capital” of NZ. Home to a string of attractive beaches, Nelson is only a short drive away from the famous Abel Tasman National Park. The town boasts great cafés and a strong artistic subculture. Nelson’s great climate is conducive to fruit growing and travellers can find plenty of work in the area. Nelson Visitor Centre Cnr Trafalgar & Halifax St, 03 548 2304, nelsonnz.com Airport Shuttle supershuttles.co.nz Nelson City Taxis 03 548 8225

NELSON STAY Amber House B&B 46 Weka St, 021 202 4961, amberhouse.co.nz Accents on the Park (BBH/VIP) 335 Trafalgar Square. 03 548 4335, accentsonthepark.com Almond House (BBH) 63 Grove St. 03 545 6455, almondbackpackers.co.nz Alpine Lodge St Arnaud. 03 521 1869, alpinelodge.co.nz Beach Hostel (BBH) 25 Muritai St. 03 548 6817, nelsonbeachhostel.50megs.com The Bug (BBH) 226 Vanguard St. 03 539 4227 thebug.co.nz The Customhouse (BBH) 252 Haven Rd. 03 545 8365, customhousenelson.co.nz Footprints by the Sea (BBH) 31 Beach Rd, Tahuna Beach. 03 546 5441, footprints.co.nz Tramways Hotel Nelson 66 Trafalgar St, 03 548 7049, tramwayshotel.co.nz Honey Suckle House (BBH) 125 Tasman St. 03 548 7576 bbh.co.nz

Hu Ha Bikerpackers (BBH) State Highway 6, Glenhope. 03 548 2707, bbh.co.nz The Palace Backpackers (BBH) 114 Rutherford St. 03 548 4691, thepalace.co.nz Paradiso (BBH) 42 Weka St. 0800 269 667, backpackernelson.co.nz Courtesy Court Motel 26/30 Gold Rd, 03 548 5114, courtesycourt.co.nz The Honesy Lawyer Country Pub 1 Point Rd, Monaco, 03 547 4070, honestlawyer.co.nz

BOOK NOW! MOTUEKA STAY Happy Apple 500 High St, 03 528 8652, happyapplebackpackers.co.nz Avalon Manor Motels 314/316 High St, 0800 282 566 avalonmotels.co.nz Eden’s Edge Backpackers (BBH) 137 Lodder Lane, Riwaka. 03 528 4242, motuekabackpackers.co.nz Motueka Garden Motel 71 King Edward St, 0800 101 911, motmotel.co.nz

Shortbread Cottage (BBH) 33 Trafalgar St. 03 546 6681

Hat Trick Lodge Backpackers 25 Wallace St. 03 528 5353, hattricklodge.co.nz

Tasman Bay Backpacker Hostel 10 Weka St. 03 548 7950, tasmanbaybackpackers.co.nz

Laughing Kiwi (BBH) 310 High St. 03 528 9229, laughingkiwi.co.nz

Trampers Rest (BBH) 31 Alton St. 03 545 7477

Old Macdonald’s Farm Holiday Park 03 527 8288, oldmacs.co.nz

Idesia B&B 14 Idesia Grove, Richmond, 03 544 0409

The White Elephant (BBH) 55 Whakarewa St. 03 528 6208, whiteelephant.co.nz

YHA Nelson 59 Rutherford St, 03 545 9988, yha.co.nz

Equestrian Lodge Motel 2 Avalon Ct, 03 528 9369

NELSON DO Abel Tasman Kayaks Ltd 0800 527 8022 abeltasmankayaks.co.nz Happy Valley 4x4 Motorbike Adventures Tours around spectacular private farm on chunky fourwheel motorbikes. 03 545 0304, happyvalleyadventures.co.nz Kaiteriteri kayaks Transport from Nelson. 03 527 8383, seakayak.co.nz Skydive Abel Tasman Tandem jumps from 13,000ft over Abel Tasman. 0800 422 899, skydive.co.nz

NELSON LAKES Located 118km south-west of Nelson, the park comprises Lake Rotoroa and Lake Rotoiti, and is surrounded by forests and mountains. Apart from tramping and skiing at Rainbow Valley and Mt Robert in winter, the lakes offer fishing and other water activities.

MOTUEKA This is an alternative hang-out for creative types and those seeking to veer off life’s fast lane. Most people use Motueka as a base to launch an assault on Abel Tasman National Park, but if you take the time to look around your efforts will be well rewarded. Try Marahau Beach and Cobb Valley. Motueka i-SITE Visitors Centre 20 Wallace St, 03 528 6543, motuekaisite.co.nz

MOTUEKA DO Wilsons Abel Tasman 265 High St, 03 528 2027, abeltasman.co.nz Abel Tasman Kayaks Ltd 0800 527 8022 abeltasmankayaks.co.nz

TAKAKA Known as the “Heart of the Parks”, the much underrated Golden Bay region is a place of considerable natural beauty. If you venture slightly out of Takaka you will see the Te Waikoropupu (Pupu Springs), one of the largest freshwater springs in the world. Information Centre Willow St, 03 525 9136 Dept of Conservation Office 62 Commercial St, 03 525 8026

TAKAKA STAY Nirvana Lodge (BBH, YHA) 25 Motupipi St. 03 525 8766, nirvanalodge.co.nz Aquapackers (BBH) Anchorage Bay, Marahau, Abel Tasman National Park. 0800 430 744, aquapackers.co.nz Golden Bay Barefoot Backpackers (BBH) 114 Commercial St. 03 525 7005, bare-foot.co.nz

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The Rocks chalets 2086 Takaka Valley Hwy, 03 525 8096, travelbug.co.nz

The Jugglers Rest (BBH) 8 Canterbury St. 03 573 5570, bbh.co.nz

River Inn (BBH) Golden Bay. 03 525 9425 riverinn.co.nz

Fat Cod Backpackers 9 Auckland St, 03 573 7788, fatcodbackpackers.co.nz

Shambhala Retreat Hwy 60, Onekaka. 03 525 8463, shambhala.co.nz

KAHURANGI NP The second-largest national park in NZ, Kahurangi includes the Heaphy Track. There are more than 100 bird species and an impressive cave system to be seen here. For info see the Nelson DOC office.

COLLINGWOOD North-west of Takaka is the tiny community of Collingwood (the people aren’t particularly small, their numbers are), a good base for expeditions to Farewell Spit. The Innlet (BBH) 839 Pakawau Main Rd, 03 524 8040, bbh.co.nz Somerset House (BBH) 10 Gibbs Rd. 03 524 8624, backpackerscollingwood.co.nz

FAREWELL SPIT Arching east from the top of Golden Bay, this is a sand bar of epic proportions, home to some of the largest sanddunes in the world and some amazing birdlife. Golden Bay Visitor Centre 03 524 8454

MARLBOROUGH The Marlborough Sounds are a beautiful labyrinth of islands and bays, serving as an impressive gateway to the South Island. Hire a kayak to paddle the coves in style, or go swimming with the dolphins. Anakiwa Backpackers (BBH) 410 Anakiwa Rd. 03 574 1388, anakiwabackpackers.co.nz Hopewell (BBH) Kenepuru Rd. 03 573 4341, hopewell.co.nz The Partage Resort Hotel Kenepuru Sound. 0800 275 373, portage.co.nz

PICTON This pretty town is the opening to the South Island, where the North Island ferry comes in, a centre for the many activities in Queen Charlotte Sound. Airport shuttle bus 03 573 7125

PICTON STAY

Kiwiana (BBH) 73 Motuipipi St. 03 525 7676

Atlantis Backpackers (BBH) 42 London Quay, 03 573 7390, atlantishostel.co.nz

Kanuka Ridge (BBH) 21 Moss Rd, Marahau, Abel Tasman National Park. 03 527 8435, abeltasmanbackpackers.co.nz

The Buccaneer Lodge 314 Waikawa Rd, 03 573 5002, buccaneerlodge.co.nz

Sequoia Lodge (BBH, VIP) 3 Nelson Sq. 03 573 8399, sequoialodge.co.nz Atlantis Backpackers 42 London Quay, 03 573 7390, atlantisbackpackers.co.nz The Villa (BBH) 34 Auckland St. 03 573 6598, thevilla.co.nz Tombstone Backpackers (BBH) 16 Gravesend Place. 03 573 7116, tombstonebp.co.nz Parklands Marina Holiday Park 10 Beach Rd, 03 573 6343, parktostay.co.nz

PICTON DO Dolphin Watch Encounters Picton Foreshore, 03 573 8040, naturetours.co.nz Marlborough Sounds Adventure Company 03 573 6078, malboroughsounds.co.nz Southern Wilderness NZ Guided walk, wine trek and sea kayaking specialists. 0800 666 044, southernwilderness.com EcoWorld Aquaium Discover the animals that make NZ unique. 03 573 6030 ecoworldnz.com

QUEEN CHARLOTTE On the road-free outer Queen Charlotte Sound, everyone and everything travels by boat. The Queen Charlotte Track covers 71km and passes through magnificent forest, at times allowing spectacular views over the Marlborough Sounds. The whole track can be walked in four days, though you can also ride it by mountain bike. Endeavour Express Water Taxi Day-trips, round-trips and luggage transfers. 03 573 5456

HAVELOCK Nestled at the head of Pelorus Sound, Havelock is the best place from which to explore the Marlborough Sounds. For trampers and mountain bikers there’s the beautiful Nydia Track. DOC Office Mahakipawa Rd, 03 574 2019 Explore Pelorus Sea Kayaks 03 576 5251

HAVELOCK STAY Bluemoon Lodge (BBH) 48 Main Rd. 03 574 2212, bluemoonhavelock.co.nz

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Linkwater Motel 1594 Queen Charlotte Dr, 03 574 2600 linkwatermotel.co.nz

Sunrise Lodge (BBH) 74 Beach Rd, 03 319 7444, bbh.co.nz

Okiwa Bay Lodge 169 Anakiwa Rd, 03 574 2527, okiwabaylodge.co.nz

The Fairways at Ocean Ridge 1 Kersage Drive, 03 319 3055

PELORUS SOUND The largest waterway within the Marlborough Sounds, it can be accessed from Havelock, Linkwater or Rai Valley.

BLENHEIM The largest town in Marlborough, and considered (ahem, also) the“sunshine capital of New Zealand”. Whitewater rafting on the Buller and Gowan Rivers is great fun. Blenheim I-Site 8 Sinclair Street Railway Station 03 577 8080 Honi-B-Backpackers (BBH) 18 Parker St. 03 577 8441, honi-b.com Koanui Backpackers (BBH) 33 Main St. 03 578 7487, koanui.co.nz The Grapevine 29 Park Terrace, 03 578 6062, thegrapevine.co.nz Arrow Backpackers 107 Budge St, 03 577 9857, bbh.co.nz Leway Backpackers 33 Lansdowne St, 03 579 2213, bbh.co.nz

KAIKOURA Kaikoura is famous for its large sperm whale population and picturesque mountain range. You can also snorkel with dolphins or swim with the inquisitive NZ fur seals (Sept-May). Kaikoura Visitor Info Centre, West End, 03 319 5641

KAIKOURA STAY Adelphi Lodge (BBH, VIP) 26 West End. 0800 423 574, adelphilodge.co.nz Albatross Backpacker Inn (BBH) 1 Torquay St. 03 319 6090, albatross-kaikoura.co.nz Bad Jelly Backpackers (BBH) 11 Churchill St. 03 319 5538, bbh.co.nz Dolphin Lodge (BBH) 15 Deal St. 03 319 5842, dolphinlodge.co.nz Dusky Lodge (BBH) 67 Beach Rd. 03 319 5959 duskylodge.co.nz The Lazy Shag (BBH) 37 Beach St. 03 319 6662 lazy-shag.co.nz Lyell Creek Lodge (BBH) 193 Beach Rd. 03 319 6277, lyellcreeklodge.co.nz

YHA Kaikoura 270 Esplanade. 03 319 5931, yha.co.nz

KAIKOURA DO Kaikoura is famous for its large sperm whale population and picturesque mountain r Albatross Encounter Enjoy the sight of the magnificent albatross so close to the boat you can almost touch them. 96 Esplanade, 0800 733 365 albatrossencounter.co.nz Dolphin Encounter Swim with the acrobatic dusky dolphins or if you prefer, join the tour to view them from the boat. 96 Esplanade, 0800 733 365, dolphin.co.nz Fyffe House 62 Avoca St, Kaikoura’s oldest building, 03 319 5835. Kaikoura Kayaks Paddle with the playful fur seals, dusky dolphins and marine life of Kaikoura. Seal kayaking, kayak school, hire, retail and kayak fishing. 19 Killarney St, 0800 452 456, kaikourakayaks.co.nz Seal Swim Kaikoura Swim with wild NZ Fur Seals. 58 West End, 0800 732 579, sealswimkaikoura.co.nz

Dorset House (BBH) 1 Dorset St, 03 366 8268, dorset.co.nz Chester Street Backpackers (BBH) 148 Chester St East. 03 377 1897, chesterst.co.nz Foley Towers (BBH) 208 Kilmore St. 03 366 9720, backpack.co.nz/foley Haka Lodge 518 Linwood Ave. 03 980 4252 hakalodge.com Jailhouse Accommodation (BBH) 338 Lincoln Rd. 0800 524 546 jail.co.nz Kiwi Basecamp (BBH) 69 Bealey Ave. 03 366 6770 kiwibasecamp.com Kiwi House 3 Devon St, Hanmer Springs. 03 315 5111, kiwihouse.co.nz Jack in the Green 26 Nayland St. 03 326 6609 bbh.co.nz Point Break Backpackers (BBH) 99 Seaview Road. 03 388 2050 pointbreakbackpackers.co.nz The Old Countryhouse (BBH) 437 Gloucester St. 03 381 5504 oldcountryhousenz.com Tranquil Lodge (BBH) 440 Manchester St. 03 366 6500 tranquil-lodge.co.nz Rucksacker Backpacker Hostel (BBH) 70 Bealey Ave. 03 377 7931, rucksacker.com Vagabond Backpackers (BBH) 232 Worcester St. 03 379 9677 vagabondhostel.com

CHRISTCHURCH Christchurch is the South Island’s major city and a lively, pretty base with a distinctly English feel to it. Throw in Mount Cook and Mount Hutt with their skifields (early June to late October) and the Canterbury area is well worth spending some time discovering. Christchurch & Canterbury i-Site Visitor Centre Rolleston Avenue (Next to the Canterbury Museum) Christchurch 8011 03 379 9629 christchurchnz.com Department of Conservation 7 Rolleston Ave, 09 526 9743

C’CHURCH STAY Around the World Backpackers 314 Barbadoes Street. 03 365 4363 aroundtheworld.co.nz At The Right Place 85 Bealey Street. 03 366 1633 atrp.co.nz Avon City Backpackers Worcester Street. 03 389 6876, avoncitybackpackers.com

C’CHURCH DO

chock full of mountains and wildlife. The two harbours of Akaroa and Lyttelton are craters of a once majestic volcano.

LYTTELTON

AKAROA

Akaroa Information Centre 80 Rue Lavaud, 03 304 8600 Akaroa Shuttle Christchurch to Akaroa buses. 0800 500 929

Christchurch Backpackers Haka Lodge 518 Linwood Av, Woolston,. 03 980 4252, hakalodge.co.nz

BANKS PENINSULA Banks Peninsula is a beautiful region with a stunning coastline

Jack in the Green 3 Devon St. 03 315 5111, jackinthegreen.co.nz

CASTLE HILL Gateway to the Craigieburn Range.

AKAROA STAY

Chill Adventures Multi-mountain snow passes. chillout.co.nz

Bon Accord Backpackers (BBH) 57 Rue Lavaud. 03 304 7782, bon-accord.co.nz

Springfield Hotel State Highway 73, Springfield. 03 318 4812, springfieldhotel.co.nz

Chez La Mer (BBH) 50 Rue Lavaud. 03 304 7024, chezlamer.co.nz

ARTHUR’S PASS

Double Dutch (BBH) 32 Chorlton Road, Okains Bay. 03 304 7229, doubledutch.co.nz

This township is the HQ for the magnificent national park which offers tramping expeditions to skiing.

Halfmoon Cottage (BBH) SH25 Barrys Bay. 03 304 5050, halfmoon.co.nz

National Park Visitor Centre 03 318 9211 Rata Lodge Backpackers (BBH) State Highway 73, Otira Arthur’s Pass National Park, 03 738 2822 rata-lodge.co.nz

AKAROA DO

Smylies Accommodation (YHA) 03 318 9258, yha.co.nz

METHVEN

Black Cat Cruises Offer a number of cruises in Akaroa. See Akaroa Harbour or swim with dolphins. blackcat.co.nz

Methven is a small, friendly town popular with fishermen, hunters and backpackers. The area provides a variety of adrenalin thrills, including hot air ballooning, bungy jumping and skydiving. Mt Hutt also has the longest ski run in Australasia.

Dolphin Experience Swim with dolphins in Akaroa Harbour. 61 Beach Rd, 0508 365 744, dolphinsakaroa.co.nz

Methven i-SITE Visitor Centre 160 Main St, Methven, 03 302 8955,

LEWIS PASS About 200km north of Christchurch, the Lewis Pass connects the west and east coasts on the SH7, with stunning surrounding scenery.

HANMER SPRINGS Hanmer Springs boasts the Hanmer

Kakapo Lodge (YHA) 14 Amuri Avenue. 03 315 7472, kakapolodge.co.nz

Waipara Sleepers (BBH) 12 Glenmark Dr, Waipara. 03 314 6003, waiparasleepers.co.nz

Akaroa French Connection Tours and shuttle bus, 0800 800 575

Akaroa Museum 71 Rue Lavard, 03 304 1013

SUMNER

HANMER STAY Hanmer Backpackers 41 Conical Hill Rd. 03 315 7196, www.hanmerbackpackers.co.nz

Swim with dolphins, horse-ride and paraglide. If your tastes are a little more sedate, the foreshore is lined with cafes, galleries and boutiques.

Skydivingnz.com Skydiving and training courses, 0800 697 593 skydivingnz.com

This surf beach is also a great place to chill for a while. If you’re feeling adventurous, mountain biking, paragliding and surfing are just some of the activities you can try.

The Hanmer Connection Christchurch to Hanmer Springs buses. hanmerconnection.co.nz

Lyttelton Information Centre 20 Oxford St, 03 328 9093

Onuku Farm Hostel (BBH) 03 304 7066, onuku.co.nz

Aoraki Balloon Safaris Hot air ballooning, 03 302 8172, nzballooning.com

Department of Conservation 115 Ludstone Rd, Kaikoura 03 319 5714

Lyttelton is a quaint township with a beautiful scenic harbour and historic buildings. The harbour is a great place for boating, while the surrounding hills are good for mountain biking and walking.

Black Cat Cruises Wildlife Cruises on Lyttelton Harbour. Free shuttle bus from Christchurch, 03 328 9078. blackcat.co.nz

Springs Thermal Reserve, where the water can reach 40°C (03 315 7511, hotfun.co.nz). Mt Lyford offers good winter skiing and is a cheaper option to the South Island resorts.

NZ Ski.com Info on Coronet Peak, the Remarkables and Mt Hutt. nzski.com

METHVEN STAY Brinkley Resort 43 Barkers Rd, Mt Hutt,

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SOUTHISLAND 03 302 8885, brinkleyresort.co.nz Big Tree Lodge 25 S Belt, 03 302 9575, bigtreelodge.co.nz Mt Hutt Bunkhouse (BBH) 8 Lampard St. 03 302 8894, mthuttbunkhouse.co.nz Pinedale Backpacker Lodge (BBH) 11 Alford St. 0800 638 483, pinedalelodge.co.nz Redwood Lodge (BBH) 3 Wayne Place. 03 302 8964, bbh.co.nz Skiwi House (BBH) 30 Chapman St. 03 302 8772, skiwihouse.com Breckenridge Lodge 49 S Belt, 03 302 8902, breckenridgelodge.co.nz

TIMARU Despite being industrial, it’s picturesque with views of the Southern Alps, plains and sea.

anywhere in New Zealand. The showcase is the majestic Mt Cook (Aoraki). NZ’s greatest climber Sir Edmund Hillary used it as a practice ground before conquering Mt Everest, but Mt Cook has claimed the lives of more than 160 people. Discuss climbing plans with park rangers before you go. Department of Conservation Visitor Information Centre Aoraki/Mt Cook Alpine Village, 03 435 1819 The Cook Connection Day trips to Mt Cook from Tekapo. Ph: 021 583 211, cookconnect.co.nz

MT COOK STAY YHA Franz Josef Glacier 2 Cron St, Franz Josef, 03 752 0754, mt.chalets@xtra.co.nz YHA Mt Cook Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park. 03 435 1820, yha.co.nz

1873 Wanderer Backpackers (BBH) 24 Evans St. 03 688 8795 Timaru Top 10 Holiday Park 154A Selwyn St, Waimataitai 0800 242 121 Anchor Motel 44 Evans St, 03 684 5067 anchormotel.co.nz

WEST COAST Rugged is the word often used when it comes to the South Island’s west coast. It’s quite an amazing place, sparsely inhabited, untouched in many areas and studded with geographical wonders. Don’t miss the two mighty glaciers, Fox and Franz Josef, or the Pancake Rocks.

GERALDINE As well as a wonderful old movie theatre and whitewater rafting on the Rangitata River, visiting the mighty Emily Falls is recommended. Geraldine Information Centre Talbot Street, 03 693 1006 Peel Forest Horse Trekking Wilderness adventures trekking through some gorgeous country, 03 696 3703, peelforesthorsetrekking.co.nz

KARAMEA Karamea contains pleasant walks, interesting caves and the Oparara River, a great trout fishing spot. Walk along the wonderful Fernian Track or, try the more challenging hike up Mt Stormy. Karamea Information Centre 106 Bridge St, 03 782 6652. Rongo Backpackers 03 782 6667, rongobackpackers.com

Rangitata Rafts Peel Forest, 0800 251 251 rafts.co.nz Rawhiti Backpackers (BBH) 27 Hewlings St. 03 693 8252 rawhitibackpackers.co.nz

LAKE TEKAPO A stunning turquoise-coloured lake, 100km west of Timaru. The tiny Church of the Good Shepherd, built in 1935, frames the view beautifully. Activities include walking, watersports, fishing and skiing. Tailor-Made-Tekapo Backpackers (BBH) 10/11 Aorangi Cres. 03 680 6700 tailor-made-backpackers.co.nz

MURCHISON With crazy terrain skewed by mining and earthquakes, one of the major attractions of Murchison is its proximity to Buller Gorge, a wonderfully scenic cluster of cliffs and trees. Activities include rafting on the Gowan River and mountain biking on the Matakitaki. Buller Gorge Swingbridge Adventure and Heritage Park 03 523 9809, bullergorge.co.nz The Lazy Cow Accommodation (BBH) 37 Waller St. 03 523 9451, thelazycownz.wordpress.com

YHA Lake Tekapo 3 Simpson Lane. 03 680 6857, yha.co.nz

MT COOK Mount Cook National Park is part of a World Heritage area that forms one of the most amazing sights

REEFTON The centrepiece of the town is Victoria Forest Park, the largest forest park in New Zealand. Reefton Visitor Centre 67 Broadway,

BOOK NOW! 03 732 8391 Reefton Old Bread Shop 155 Buller Rd, 03 732 8420, reeftonbackpackers.co.nz The Old Nurses Home 104 Shiel St, 03 789 8881

WESTPORT Visitor Information Westport 1 Brougham St, 03 789 6658

Global Village (BBH) 42-54 Cowper St, 03 768 7272, globalvillagebackpackers.co.nz Neptunes International Backpackers (BBH) 43 Gresson St, 0800 003 768, neptunesbackpackers.co.nz Noahs Ark Backpackers (BBH) 16 Chapel St, 03 768 4868, noahs.co.nz

Bazil’s Hostel (VIP) 54/56 Russell St. 03 789 6410, bazils.co.nz

Greymouth KIWI Holiday Park & Motel 318 Main South Rd, 03 762 6768, southbeach.co.nz

Beaconstone Eco Lodge Birds Ferry Road Charleston 027 431 0491 beconstoneecolodge.co.nz

Kainga-RA YHA 15 Alexander St, Ph: (03) 768 4951, yha.co.nz

TripInn (BBH) 72 Queen St. 03 789 7367 tripinn.co.nz

PAPAROA NP This park is home to the amazing Pancake Rocks at Punakaiki. These are a series of eroded limestone rocks moulded into what appears to be a giant stack of pancakes. Visitor Information Punakaiki 03 731 1895 punakaiki.co.nz Barrytown Knife Making 2662 Coast Road, Barrytown, 03 731 1053, barrytownknifemaking.com

PAPAROA STAY Punakaiki Beach Hostel (BBH) 4 Webb St. 03 731 1852, punakaikibeachhostel.co.nz Te Nikau Retreat (BBH, YHA) 03 731 1111, tenikauretreat.co.nz Punakaiki Beach Camp Owen Street, 03 731 1894, punakaiki.co.nz

GREYMOUTH The west coast’s largest town is dominated by the Grey River. Highlights include the Monteith’s brewery tour, as well as aquatic activities like rafting and canyoning. Visitor Information Herbert and Mackay Sts, 03 768 5101 TranzAlpine Scenic railway from Christchurch to Greymouth, travelling through Canterbury Plains and the Alps. Departs 9am every morning. 0800 872 467 tranzscenic.co.nz

GREYMOUTH STAY The west coast’s largest town is dominated by the Duke Hostel (BBH) 27 Guiness St. 03 768 9470 bbh.co.nz

HOKITIKA Greenstone, a form of practically indestructible rock that was used by the Maori to make weapons and ornaments, is the main attraction here. There’s also the Westland Water World for all things wet, the Glowworm Dell and some excellent whitewater rafting. Hokitika Visitor Info Centre Carnegie Building, corner of Hamilton & Tancred Street, 03 755 6166

HOKITIKA STAY Hokitika Holiday Park 242 Strafford St, 03 755 8172

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OKARITO The tiny beach settlement of Okarito, near Franz Josef Glacier, sits at the mouth of New Zealand’s largest unmodified wetland – the Okarito Lagoon. Hike up to the Okarito Trig for excellent views. Okarito Nature Tours 03 753 4014, okarito.co.nz Royal Hostel (BBH) The Strand, 03 753 4080, okaritohostel.com

FRANZ JOSEF The glacier is about 12km long and offers a wide variety of challenging activities. To get the ultimate perspective on the magnitude of Franz Josef, head for Sentinel Rock, which gives a sweeping view over both the Waiho Valley and the mighty glacier. DOC Visitors Information Centre Westland National Park, Hwy 6, 03 752 0796

FRANZ STAY Chateau Franz (VIP, BBH) 8-10 Cron St, 0800 728 372, chateaufranz.co.nz Glow Worm Cottages (BBH) 27 Cron St, 0800 151 027, budgetaccommodation.co.nz Montrose (BBH) 9 Cron St, 03 752 0188, bbh.co.nz

Birdsong (BBH) 124 SH6, 03 755 7179 birdsong.co.nz

Rainforest Retreat (VIP) Cron St, 0800 873 346 rainforestretreat.co.nz

Drifting Sands Backpackers (BBH) 197 Revell St, 03 755 7624,

YHA Franz Josef 2-4 Cron St, 03 752 0754, yha.co.nz

Mountain Jade Backpackers (BBH) 41 Weld St, 03 755 5185, mountainjadebackpackers.co.nz Riverview Cottage & Cabins (BBH) 154 Kaniere Rd, 03 755 7440 bbh.co.nz Stumpers Accommodation 2 Weld St, 03 755 6154, stumpers.co.nz

HOKITIKA DO Whitewater Kayaking hokitika.org Hokitika Gorge Sometimes you see photos of a tourist spot and think yeah right, it can’t look as good as that in real life. Hokitika Gorge is one of those places. hokitika.org

WHATAROA About 35km south of Harihari and one of the South Island’s prime fishing spots. Also the magnificent white heron (Kotuku) colony which thrillseekers can reach by jet boat.

FRANZ DO Alpine Adventure Centre Footage on a helimax screen, 03 752 0793 scenic-flights.co.nz Franz Josef Glacier Guides Guided walks and heli-hikes on the Franz Josef Glacier 0800 484 337, franzjosefglacier.com Glacier Country Kayaks Explore the glaciers from the water 03 752 0230, glacierkayaks.com Skydive Franz At 18,000ft, they currently offer NZ’s highest skydive. 0800 458 677, skydivefranz.co.nz

FOX GLACIER Similiar activities to Franz Josef only with fewer crowds. The best walk is up to the Welcome Flat Hot Springs. For stunning views, head up the wonderfully scenic Chalet Lookout Walk. Look out for the beautiful kea (grey-green mountain parrot). Nearby is Lake Matheson, with its stunning twin mountain reflection.

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SOUTHISLAND

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DOC Visitor Centre State Hwy 6, 03 752 0796

FOX STAY Fox Glacier Inn 03 751 0088 foxglacierinn.co.nz Ivory Towers (BBH) 03 751 0838, ivorytowerslodge.co.nz

FOX DO Fox Glacier Guiding Guided walks and heli-hikes on the FoxGlacier. 0800 111 600, foxguides.co.nz Glacier Country Kayaks 20 Cron St, 0800 423 262, glacierkayaks.com Skydive NZ: Fox Glacier 0800 751 0080, skydivingnz.co.nz

HAAST PASS Running through Mt Aspiring National Park, this stretch of road is among the most scenic that you’ll come across in New Zealand, showing off pristine lakes, magnificent forests and waterfalls. DOC Centre Cnr SH 6 and Jackson Bay Rd, 03 750 0809 Wilderness Backpackers (BBH) Marks Rd, 03 750 029, bbh.co.nz

SOUTHLAND The top of your chest will quickly get sore as the South Island’s jaw-dropping scenery becomes more prevalent. From the adrenalin thrills of Queenstown to the achingly beautiful Milford Sound, there’s never a dull moment down south. Stop frequently, take deep breaths and enjoy one of the most beautiful places on Earth. Mt Aspiring National Park Visitor Info Centre Mt Earnslaw, 03 443 7660

LAKE WANAKA The cosy town and its crystal-clear waters which reflect the dramatic landscape is the gateway to Mount Aspiring Park. The World Heritage area has magnificent tramping and mountaineering. Lake Wanaka boasts almost as many adrenalintastic activities as neighbouring Queenstown, such as mountain biking, jet-boating, canyoning, and whitewater sledging. It’s a favourite with snowboarders in winter, and has lively nightlife year-round. Boasting the most sceneray from those films with wizards and hairyfooted hobbits, there are great Lord of the Rings tours, too. Lake Wanaka Visitors Centre The Log Cabin, Lakefront, 100 Ardmore Street. 03 4431 1233

WANAKA STAY

LAKE HAWEA

Albert Town Lodge (BBH) Cnr SH6 and Kingston St, Albert Town, 03 443 9487, alberttownlodge.co.nz

Thirty-five kilometres long and more than 400m deep, Lake Hawea is a great source of salmon and rainbow trout.

Holly’s Backpackers (BBH) 71 Upton St, 03 443 8187, hollys-backpacker.co.nz Mountain View Backpackers (BBH) 7 Russell St, 0800 112 201, wanakabackpackers.co.nz The Purple Cow (BBH) 94 Brownston St, 03 443 1880, purplecow.co.nz Wanaka Bakpaka (BBH) 117 Lakeside Rd, 03 443 7837, wanakabakpaka.co.nz YHA Wanaka 181 Upton St, 03 443 7405, yha.co.nz

WANAKA DO

QUEENSTOWN Paradise for the energetic traveller, Queenstown is one of the world’s most action-packed towns. The town, which is surprisingly small compared to its big reputation, is located on Lake Wakatipu and rises up to the peaks of the aptly-named Remarkables (which you can ski in winter). In winter, the town is a centre for nearby skifields and in summer adventure activities and tramping take over. There’s also a hectic social scene which extends well into the wee small hours. Info & Track Guided Walks 37 Shotover St, 03 442 9708 Peterpans Adventure Travel 27 Shotover St Queenstown. peterpans.com.au

Adventure Consultants Mountaineering instruction courses and guided ascents, 03 443 8711, adventure.co.nz

Queenstown Travel & Visitor Centre Corner of Shotover & Camp Sts, 03 442 4100

Aspiring Guides Guided mountain climbing and ice climbing instruction courses, 03 443 9422, aspiringguides.com

Alpine Lodge (BBH) 13 Gorge Rd. 03 442 7220, bbh.co.nz

Classic Flights Vintage Tiger Moth flights over Lake Wanaka. 03 443 4043, classicflights.co.nz Deep Canyon Canyoning in the Matukituki Valley. Adventure Wanaka, 23 Dunmore St, Wanaka. 03 443 7922, deepcanyon.co.nz Frogz Have More Fun Sledge down either the Clutha, Hawea or Kawarau Rivers. 0800 437 649, frogz.co.nz The Silver Demon Aerobatic flights. 03 443 4043, silverdemon.co.nz Skydive Lake Wanaka Freefall from 12,000 or 15,000ft with views of NZ’s highest mountains. 0800 786 877, skydivenz.com Treble Cone Ski Field 03 443 7443, treblecone.co.nz Wanaka Rock Climbing One, three and five-day rock climbing courses for everyone. 03 443 6411, wanakarock.co.nz Wanaka Flightseeing Milford Sound flight and cruise from Wanaka, 03 443-8787, flightseeing.co.nz Wanaka Sightseeing Includes Lord of the Rings tours, 2 Anderson Rd, 03 338 0982, wanakasightseeing.co.nz

Q’TOWN STAY

Aspen Lodge (BBH) 11 Gorge Rd. 03 442 9671, aspenlodge.co.nz Base Discovery Lodge Queenstown 49 Shotover St. 03 441 1185, stayatbase.com Black Sheep Lodge (BBH/VIP) 13 Frankton Rd. 03 442 7289, blacksheepbackpackers.co.nz Bungi Backpackers (VIP, BBH) 15 Sydney St. 0800 728 286, bungibackpackers.co.nz Butterfli Lodge (BBH) 62 Thompson St. 03 442 6367, butterfli.co.nz Cardrona Alpine Resort Between Queenstown and Wanaka. 03 443 7341, cardrona.com Deco Backpackers (VIP, BBH) 52 Man St. 03 442 7384, decobackpackers.co.nz

rooms, dorm beds and selfcontained family cabins. 48 Hamilton Rd. 0800 746 396, 03 442 8273, pinewood.co.nz

NZ Ski.com Info on Coronet Peak, the Remarkables and Mt Hutt, nzski.com

Southern Laughter (BBH, VIP) 4 Isle St. 0800 728 448, southernlaughter.co.nz

Queenstown Rafting Raft the Shotiver, Kawarau and Landsborough rivers. 35 Shotover St. 03 442 9792 rafting.co.nz

Hippo Lodge 4 Anderson Heights. 03 442 5785, hippolodge.co.nz

Real Journeys Visitor Centre Doubtful Sound & Milford Sound daytime and overnight cruises. Te Anau glow-worm cave excursions. TSS Earnslaw vintage steamship cruises and Walter Peak High Country Farm. 0800 65 65 01, realjourneys.co.nz

Flaming Kiwi Backpackers 39 Robins Rd, 03 442 5494 YHA Queenstown Central 48A Shotover Street. 03 442 7400, yha.co.nz YHA Queenstown Lakefront 88-90 Lake Esplanade. 03 442 8413, yha.co.nz

Q’TOWN DO There are hundreds of activities to keep you occupied in Queenstown. Bungy, jetboating and rafting are all experiences not to be missed, and in winter, skiing the Remarkables is a must. To really appreciate the beauty of the region, take a scenic flight, or even jump out the plane. AJ Hackett Bungy Queenstown Jump off one or all of New Zealand’s most well-known sites. Nevis Highwire Bungy, the highest in New Zealand – 134m above the Nevis River. The Kawarau Bridge, the world’s first bungy – 43m above the Kawarau River. The 47m Ledge, 400m above the town which you can jump day or night. Access is by Skyline Gondola. 0800 286 4958 bungy.co.nz Awesome Foursome Bungy (Nevis – 134m), jetboat, helicopter, whitewater rafting, combos.co.nz Dart River Safaris Jetboating wilderness tours, 0800 327 8538, dartriver.co.nz Fat Tyre Adventure Mountain biking/heli biking, 0800 328 897, fat-tyre.co.nz Fergburger Best burgers in NZ. Shotover St, fergburger.com

Flaming Kiwi Backpackers (BBH) 39 Robins Rd. 03 442 5494, flamingkiwi@xtra.co.nz

Flight Park Tandem Paragliding Operates from Coronet Peak 0800 467 325, tandemparagliding.com

Hippo Lodge (BBH) 4 Anderson Hts. 03 442 5785, hippolodge.co.nz

Haka Adventure Snow Tours 03 980 4250, hakatours.com

Nomads Queenstown 5-11 Church St. 03 441 3922, nomadshostels.com

Mad Dog River Boarding River sledging & other actionpacked water activities, 03 442 7797, riverboarding.co.nz

Pinewood Lodge (VIP) Queenstown’s best value accommodation. We offer an excellent variety of accommodation, everything from deluxe en-suite rooms with private bathroom amenities, inexpensive double and twin

Shotover St, 03 442 5867, nzone.biz

Milford Sound Flightseeing Scenic flights to Milford Sound, 0800 65 65 01, realjourneys.co.nz NZONE Skydive Skydive from 15,000ft. 35

Shotover Canyon Swing Jump or be released 109m off the world’s highest cliff jump. 0800 279 464, canyonswing.co.nz Shotover Jet Jetboat ride. 0800 746 868 shotoverjet.com Sky Trek Hang Gliding 03 442 9551, skytrek.co.nz Vertigo Mountain Biking Heli-bike and gondola downhill. 0800 837 8446, vertigobikes.co.nz

GLENORCHY Just out of Queenstown is Glenorchy (or “Isengard”) which has some of the best walks in the area, including the Greenstone and Caples tracks. Department of Conservation Beech St, 03 442 7933 Glenorchy Backpackers Retreat (VIP) Cnr Mull and Argyle Streets, Glenorchy, glenorchynz.com Kinloch Lodge (BBH) 862 Kinloch Rd, 03 442 4900, kinlochlodge.co.nz

ARROWTOWN Poplar Lodge (BBH) 4 Merioneth St, 03 442 1466, spoplarlodge.co.nz Arrowtown Holiday Park 12 Centennial Ave, 03 442 1876

TE ANAU Home to the second largest lake in NZ, Te Anau is a beautiful little town, a good jumping off point for the World Heritage Fiordland National Park. The park is the largest in New Zealand and offers some spectacular sightseeing. The Milford Track is one of the most famous in the world, but often booked out. The Routeburn, ReesDart and Kepler are ace alternatives. doc.govt.nz Fiordland I-site Visitor Centre Lakefront Drive, Te Anau, 03 249 8900

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SOUTHISLAND Department of Conservation 03 249 8514 Te Anau Glowworm Caves realjourneys.co.nz Air Fiordland Flights to Queenstown, Milford and Mt Cook, 03 249 7505, airfiordland.co.nz Real Journeys Coaches to Milford Sound, 0800 656 503 realjourneys.co.nz Scenic Shuttle Daily between Te Anau and Invercargill in summer months, twice weekly in winter. Connects with the Catlins Coaster from Invercargill to Dunedin 0800 277 483 Top Line Tours Coach to and from Te Anau and Queenstown, 03 249 8059

TE ANAU STAY Barnyard Backpackers (BBH) 80 Mt York Rd, Rainbow Downs, 03 249 8006, barnyard.moonfruit.com

ANAU TO MILFORD The distance between Te Anau and Milford Sound may be 119km but the breathtaking scenery along the way makes the journey extremely enjoyable. Along the road watch out for the Mirror Lakes and the disappearing mountain. Another highlight is the 1.2km rough-hewn Homer Tunnel. It’s pitch black, having no lighting plus it’s pretty darn steep – a thrilling experience for those afraid of the dark.

MILFORD SOUND Green, wet and breathtakingly beautiful, Milford Sound is one of the most picturesque sights in the world. Much of the action in the Milford Sound takes place on the water and the best way to appreciate the beauty on show is on a cruise or kayak. Bottlenose dolphins, New Zealand fur seals and Fiordland crested penguins all hang out there. Milford Sound Lodge (BBH) 03 249 8071, milfordlodge.co.nz

Bob & Maxine’s (BBH) 20 Paton Place, 03 931 3161, bbh.co.za

Real Journeys 0800 656 501, realjourneys.co.nz

Te Anau Lakefront Backpackers 48/50 Lakefront Dr, 03 249 7713, teanaubackpackers.co.za

Great Sights On and under the water, 03 442 9445 greatsights.co.nz

Te Anau Lakeview Kiwi Holiday Park & Motel 77 Manapouri, 03 249 7457, teanauholidaypark.co.nz

Milford Sound Underwater Observatory Discover a coral reef beneath Milford Sound, 03 249 9442

YHA Te Anau 29 Mokonui St, 03 249 7847, yha.co.nz

TE ANAU DO Adventure Fiordland 72 Town Centre, 03 249 8500 fiordlandaventure.co.nz High Ride Adventures Quad riding and scenic horse trekking. 03 249 8591, highride.co.nz Luxmore Jet Jetboating on the Waiau River, 0800 253 826, luxmorejet.co.nz Real Journeys Doubtful Sound daytime wilderness, small boat and overnight cruises. Milford Sound daytime, overnight scenic, nature and small boat cruises. 0800 656 501, realjourneys.co.nz Milford Track Day Walk Lake cruise and guided walk, 0800 656 501 milfordlodge.co.nz Rosco’s Milford Sound Sea Kayaks 0800 476 726, roscosmilfordkayaks.com Skydive Fiordland Dive 44 Caswell Rd, Te Anau, 0800 829254,

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MILFORD DO

Milford Sound Cruise & Observatory Visit 0800 656 501 Milford Wanderer Cruises Day and overnight options with kayaking, etc. Coach connections, 0800 656 501, realjourneys.co.nz Tawaki Dive See Fiordland’s unique marine life on a day-trip with two guided dives in Milford Sound. Rental gear available, max four divers. 0800 829254, tawakidive.co.nz TSS Earnslaw & Walter Peak Farm tours, barbecue lunches, horse treks and cycling. realjourneys.co.nz Wanaka Flightseeing Milford Sound flight and cruise, 0800 105 105, flightseeing.co.nz 

MANAPOURI Manapouri is the proud owner of arguably New Zealand’s most beautiful stretch of water. This is where the boat trip on Doubtful Sound leaves from – most start the trip in Queenstown or Te Anau. From the boat you may see seals and possibly dolphins and penguins.

BOOK NOW! Adventure Charters and Hires fiordlandadventure.co.nz Real Journeys 03 249 6602 realjourneys.co.nz

MANAPOURI STAY Freestone Backpackers (BBH) 270 Hillside Rd, 03 249 6893, bbh.co.nz Manapouri Lakeview Motor Inn 68 Cathedral Drive, 03 249 6652, manapouri.co.nz Possum Lodge (BBH) 13 Murrel Ave, 03 249 6623, possumlodge.co.nz

DOUBT SOUND If you’re not one for crowds, an alternative Fiordland option is Doubtful Sound – the deepest of the fiords, made up of 100km of waterways. Where Milford is all pointy peaks and endless cascading falls, Doubtful is rounded mountains – a serene sanctuary, inhabited by loads of interesting critters. Real Journeys Daytime wilderness, small boat and overnight cruises. 0800 656 502 realjourneys.co.nz Fiordland Navigator Pearl Harbour, Manapouri 03 249 6602, doubtfulsound.co.nz Deep Cove Hostel Doubtful Sound, 03 249 7713, deepcovehostel.co.nz

INVERCARGILL The southernmost city in New Zealand, Invercargill is a farmingorientated community with a pleasant collection of parks and museums to keep you busy. Invercargill I-site Visitors Centre 108 Gala St, 03 214 6243 Dept of Conservation Office Don St, 03 214 4589 Catlins Coaster Invercargill to Dunedin via the Catlins with many stops to the main natural attractions and wildlife encounters. Farmstay options are available, 0800 304333, catlinscoaster.co.nz Stewart Island Flights Flights to Stewart Island, 03 218 9129, stewartislandflights.co.nz

INVERCARG STAY Southern Comfort (BBH) 30 Thompson St, 03 218 3838 bbh.co.nz

Tuatara Backpacker Lodge 30 Dee St, 03 214 0956, tuataralodge.co.nz

SOUTH SCENIC The beautiful road west of Invercargill towards Fiordland is known as the Southern Scenic Route. Pepper Tree Hostel 121 Grey St, Palmerston, 06 335 4054, peppertreehostel.co.nz Grandma’s Place 146 Grey St, Palmerston North, 06 358 6928, grandmas-place.co.nz The Globe Backpackers (VIP) 144 Palmerston St, Riverton, 03 234 8527, globebackpackers@xtra.co.nz Harbison Backpackers (BBH) 5 Harbison St, Otautau, 03 225 8715, michdale@xtra.co.nz Shooters Backpackers 73 Main St, Tuatapere, 03 226 6250

GORE Gore spans the Mataura river and boasts some lovely scenery in the Hokonui Hills and the Country and Western festival each June. Old Fire Station Backpackers (BBH) 19 Hokonui Dr, 03 208 1925, thefirestation.co.nz Oakleight Motels 70 Hokonui Dr, 03 208 4863, oakleighmotel.co.za

THE CATLINS The beautiful Catlins is a sprawling mass of bush, forest and rivers, stretching all the way from Waipapa Point in Southland to Nugget Point in Otago. The best bit about the Catlins is the abundance of wildlife. Catlins Community Info Centre 3 Main Rd, Owaka, South Otago, 03 415 8371, catlins.org.nz Elm Lodge Wildlife Tours Two-day camping trips, 0800 356 563, elmwildlifetours.co.nz

CATLINS STAY Wrights Mill Lodge (BBH) 865 Tahakopa Valley, 03 204 8424, bbh.co.nz Lazy Dolphin 529 Curio Bay Rd, 03 246 8579. bbh.co.nz Fernlea Backpackers (VIP) Moana St, Kaka Point, 03 412 8834 The Split Level (BBH)

@tnt_downunder 9 Waikawa Rd, Owaka, 03 415 8304, brianwayne@clear.net.nz Surat Bay Lodge (BBH) Surat Bay Rd, New Haven, 03 415 8099, suratbay.co.nz Penguin Paradise Holiday Lodge (BBH) 612 Waikawa-Niagara Rd, Waikawa Village South Catlins, 03 2468 552, dolphinsurf@xtra.co.nz Thomas Catlins Lodge & Holiday Park, 8 Clark St, Owaka 03 415 8333, thomascatlins.co.nz Wright’s Mill Lodge (BBH) 865 Tahakopa Valley Rd, 03 204 8424 catlinsaccommodation.co.nz

DUNEDIN Dunedin is Celtic for “Edinburgh” and many Scottish principles endure here. One thing the locals do much better than their Scots ancestors is play rugby, so if there’s a game on at Carisbrook (the “House of Pain”) while you’re in town, beg, borrow or steal to get yourself there. Dunedin Visitor Centre 48 The Octagon, 03 474 3300 Dept of Conservation Office 77 Stuart St, 03 477 0677 Penguin Patch 9 the Octagon, 03 471 8571, Email: penguinpatch@xtra.co.nz

DUNEDIN STAY The Asylum Lodge (BBH) 36 Russell Rd, Seacliff, 03 465 8123, bbh.co.nz Bus Stop backpackers (BBH) 252 Harrington Point Rd, Portobello, 03 478 0330, bbh.co.nz Chalet Backpackers (BBH) 296 High St, 03 479 2075 bbh.co.nz Dunedin Central Backpackers (BBH) 243 Moray Pl, 03 477 9985, bbh.co.nz The Jolly Poacher (BBH) 74 Elm Row, 03 477 3384 bbh.co.nz Hogwartz (BBH) 277 Rattray St, 03 474 1487, bbh.co.nz The Jolly Poacher (BBH) 54 Arthur St, 03 477 3384, bbh.co.nz Kiwis Nest (BBH) 597 George St, 03 471 9540, bbh.co.nz

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Leviathan Hotel 27 Queens Gardens, 0800 773 773, dunedinhotel.co.nz Manor House (BBH) 28 Manor Place, 03 477 0484, manorhousebackpackers.co.nz On Top Backpackers (BBH) 12 Filleul St, cnr Moray Pl, 03 477 6121, bbh.co.nz Pennys Backpackers (BBH) 6 Stafford St, 03 477 6027, bbh.co.nz Next Stop Backpackers 2 View St, 03 477 0477, nextstop.co.nz Ramsay Lodge (BBH) 60 Stafford St, 03 477 6313, bbh.co.nz YHA Dunedin, Stafford Gables 71 Stafford St, 03 474 1919, yha.co.nz

DUNEDIN DO Baldwin Street In the Guinness Book of Records as the steepest street in the world. Cadbury World 280 Cumberland St, 0800 223 2879, cadbury.co.nz Cosmic Corner Funk Store Check out the legal highs and chat to the staff about where to go for parties, events and the beautiful parts of New Zealand. 355 George St, 03 479 2949 Dunedin Public Art Gallery 30 The Octagon, 03 474 3240, dpagmail@dcc.govt.nz Oamaru Blue Penguin Colony View blue penguins just metres away every evening at dusk. Waterfront Rd, 1-1/2 hrs north of Dunedin, 03 433 1195, penguins.co.nz Parachute Experience Skydiving from a great height 03 489 4113, dropzone.com Sinclair Wetlands and Educational Centre Freedom or conducted walks over 5km of walkways. Backpacker and camping facilities. Rapid no 854 Clarendon/ Berwick Rd (signposted on SH1 30km south of Dunedin), 03 486 2654 Speights Brewery Heritage Tours 03 477 7697, speights.co.nz Royal Albatross Centre 03 478 0499, albatross.org.nz

OTAGO PENINSULA The Otago Peninsula is a beautiful stretch of rugged coast, home to a fascinating collection of rare and native birds such as the albatross and yellow-eyed penguin. Billy Browns (BBH)

423 Aramoana Rd, Port Chalmers, 03 472 8323, billybrowns.co.nz McFarmers Backpackers (BBH) 774 Portobello Rd, Portobello, 02 5206 0640, bbh.co.nz

OTAGO DO Historic Fort Taiaroa An underground complex built in the 1880s, this fortified stronghold has been inhabited since earliest Maori settlement of the area. Tours available at the Visitor Centre. Fletcher House, Broad Bay, 03 478 0180 Larnach Castle Australasia’s only castle. The architecture is amazing and the intricate details (including a foyer ceiling that took nearly seven years to build) are breathtaking. NZ Marine Studies Centre and Aquarium Run by the University of Otago, the Portobello Aquarium and Marine Biology Centre (near Quarantine Point) is a refuge for a diverse collection of fish and reptile life. 03 479 5826

Buscot Station (BBH) 732 Omarama, 03 438 9646, buscotstn@xtra.co.nz Empire Hotel (BBH) 13 Thames St, 03 434 3446, empirehotel@hotmail.com Old Bones Backpackers (BBH) Rapid Number 468 Beach Rd, Kakanui, 03 434 8115, simon@oldbones.co.nz YHA Oamaru, Red Kettle Seasonal (open September/October to May/June only). Corner of Reed and Cross Sts, 03 434 5008, yha.co.nz

Swaggers Backpackers (BBH) 25 Wansbeck St, 03 434 9999, swaggers@es.co.nz

MOERAKI Just 30km south of Oamaru lies a remarkable collection of eerie giant boulders. Olive Grove Lodge (BBH) 2328 SH1, Waianakarua, 03 439 5830, info@olivebranch.co.nz The Dubliner 105 Tiverton St, Palmerston, 03 465 8123

IN THE SPOTLIGHT

Elm Wildlife Tours 0800 356 563, elmwildlifetours.co.nz

TAIAROA HEAD Taiaroa Head is the place to see the albatross colony, the only mainland colony in the world inside the bounds of a city.

ALEXANDRA Alexandra and Roxburgh are the two main towns for fruit-picking work in the Central Otago region. Grasshopper Rock One of the world’s southernmost vineyards, situated on the Earnscleugh Rd. grasshopperrock.co.nz

ROXBURGH Villa Rose Backpackers (BBH) 79 Scotland St, 03 446 8761, remarkableorchards@xtra.co.nz

OAMARU A charming little place noted for both its interesting collection of white granular limestone buildings and its large penguin population. Visitor Information Centre Thames St, 03 434 1656 Oamaru Blue Penguin Colony View blue penguins at dusk. Waterfront Rd, 03 433 1195, penguins.co.nz Chillawhile Backpackers (BBH) & Art Gallery 1 Frome St, Roberts Park, 03 437 0168, chillawhile.co.nz Coastal Backpackers (BBH) The Hall, Waianakarua Rd, All Day Bay, 03 439 5411, coastalbackpackers.co.nz

SHOTOVER CANYON SWING Nestled in the bush just out of Queenstown, is the world’s highest cliff jump. At 109m high with 60m of that being freefall, it proves to be the adventurous travellers ‘Must do’. There are 70+ different jump styles to choose from, including sliding into the canyon from a mini slippery dip, or being pushed backwards over the edge on a plastic chair! After you’ve fallen, take in the breathtaking Shotover River and await the return to reality. As soon as you’ve done it once you have an option to do it again at half price, so there is always the chance to get the thrill of a lifetime once more before you leave. If that adrenaline is not enough, check out the packages available to do the swing, plus jet boat/ skydiving or rafting.

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BIGTRIP

Beach huts on Aitutaki

Didn’t think you could afford the South Pacific? Well you’re wrong, and many of its islands are great stopovers on the way to or from Australia and New Zealand. TNT brings you the lowdown... Photos: Thinkstock, Getty, Samoan Tourism, ©Kirklandphotos.com All rights reserved and Volcano Discovery

WORDS IAN ARMITAGE

Big trips don’t come much bigger than this. We’re talking about the South Pacific – the vast ocean that seems to cover pretty much half the globe, dotted with islands. Because of its vastness, it is almost impossible to summarise it in just a few words other than to say it’s on almost every bucket list, conjuring up images of smiling hula girls swaying their hips in the sunshine, and barefoot islanders living a carefree lifestyle. Fiji and The Cook Islands have long been popular stopovers on the way to or from Australia and New Zealand, but travellers haven’t explored much further for one reason: the price tag. But, while exploring this vast expanse may have previously been out of the reach of mere mortals, now you can afford it. A quick web search will throw up hundreds of deals, you simply have to choose the right destination and right resort. And, as always, we’re here to help... The Cook Islands The Cook Islands are definitely the most affordable destination in the South Pacific. A heavily New Zealandinfluenced culture and an inviting array of natural wonders including coral lagoons, caves, volcanic mountains and lush TNTDOWNUNDER.COM

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The Cook Islands are perfect for snorkelling forests, make it a must-do. There are 15 Cook Islands, all halfway between New Zealand and Hawaii, and they are each very distinct from one another, with your typical luxury resort experiences, forest hiking, and even some deserted islands on offer. What to do: Rarotonga’s Muri Lagoon is a must, as is snorkelling on the Aitutaki (One Foot Island) atoll – which has had a human presence since AD900. For a taste of the islands’ village life, tour the pretty Mauke. A raised coral atoll, its central area lies only about 30 metres above sea level and is full of rich, tropical vegetation. We also recommend exploring the caves of Mangaia, including the burial chamber of the ruler Te Rua Rere. Food and drink: There are three main ethnic groups in the South Pacific – Polynesian, Melanesian and Micronesian – so the type of cuisine you get depends on which island you visit. Some 90% of Cook Islanders are of either full or partial descent of the native Polynesian people, so for a taste of Polynesian cuisine, enjoy one of the islands’ classic pork-based Umukai feasts (which involves baking food in an underground oven) along with a performance of local traditional dance. Matu rori (sea cucumber, served with lemon and cooked green banana) is another speciality – a sort of spaghetti from the sea. Where to party: When it comes to partying it has to be Rarotonga. Friday is the big night on the island when the clubs and bars can stay open until 2am. But one of the most fun ways of exploring is to take an organised nightlife tour, stopping off at many of the venues around the island. It is 84

Jumping ship Fijian style

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BIGTRIP a fun party on wheels that gets you mixing with locals and fellow tourists over a drink or on the dance floor. And no one has to be the designated driver because you get dropped off at your accommodation at the end of the night. Nice (enjoycookislands.com). Where to stay: There are a number of cheap hostels on Rarotonga including Backpackers International Hostel (backpackersinternational.com), which is only a minute’s walk from the beach with dorms from NZ$18 per person for six nights or more. They have a complimentary international airport pick up, too.

Fiji Right now is the best time to go to Fiji. Sure it’s got the lagoons, the beaches and the laid-back vibe, but the adventurous side of this South Pacific beauty is emerging like a curious puppy. What Fiji has going for it is that it’s an exciting place wrapped up in a peaceful package. And when we say package, we’re not referring to the all-inclusive honeymoon and my-first-family-holiday packages that Fiji has been known for in the past. Today, it combines a reasonable price tag with extreme sights, flavours and experiences unlike anything you’ll find anywhere else. What to do: Plant yourself in Nadi and you’ll be greeted by traditional Fijian dancers, ukulele players and adorned with leis – cliché sure, but still awesome. You’ll also be immersed in heady city experiences, including Indian cuisine and a bustling street life. Sign on for a jungle cruise and you’ll experience an entirely different Fiji, including some of the world’s most colourful and entertaining bird-watching. Food and drink: Fiji is home to two distinct cuisines – Fijian (obviously) and Indian. Traditional Fijian dishes include kakoda, a marinated and steamed local fish, and rourou, a dish made from local taro leaf. One of the most popular traditional meals is lovo, the collective name for a feast of fish, meat, vegetables and fruit cooked in covered pits. Seafood also plays a massive part on Fijian menus, thanks to the surrounding South Pacific waters packed with marine life. Whole grilled snapper and tender tuna steaks are good value, delicious and sure to be as fresh as a daisy.

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BIGTRIP When it comes to drink, Fijians aren’t big on booze, but one beverage they savour is kava, made from the pulverised root of a pepper shrub mixed with water. To first-time drinkers, it tastes a little like muddy water and can make your tongue and the back of your throat numb. It is usually consumed at a special kava ceremony, where a traditional dish (sometimes a turtle shell) is filled with the brew and passed around the circle of drinkers. Pssst, it won’t give you crazy visions, despite what you may have read. Where to stay: With so much to explore, Fiji is perfect for backpackers and there is plenty of budget accommodation on offer from Rendezvous Fiji (rendezvousfiji.com), which will set you back about $16 a night, and Bamboo Beach Hostel (bamboobackpackers.hostel.com) which is just $9 per night. Vanuatu Vanuatu was colonised by the French but most residents speak English (they also colonised bits of it) as well as Bislama, a Creole mixture of English, French and various dialects of Vanuatu. Efate is the main island, but there are other more remote ones to explore. One of the most popular trips from Efate is Tanna, where volcano enthusiasts can get up close to Yasur, the live volcano. It’s a 40-minute flight from Efate that can be done as a day-trip, but a stay-over is recommended as the volcano is spectacular at nightfall. What to do: The town of Port Vila is basic but the markets are fabulous and full of luscious organic produce as well as the obligatory sarongs and souvenirs, and racks and racks of ‘designer bags’ in a variety of colours. But be warned: the local goods may not pass customs inspection and you’ll have to kiss your grass skirt and coconut shell bikini ensemble goodbye at the airport. Head to the very pretty Mele Cascades, where for a small fee a guide will take you up a hill through the rainforest to the famous waterfall. Also check out the Botanical Gardens. Food and drink: Worryingly, cannibalism was once practised in Vanuatu, with the last case of it reported as recently as the

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1960s. Thankfully the food’s improved since then. Imagine if you will the best of French cuisine, prepared with fresh organic produce, with a bit of a Pacific Island twist (coconut, yams and sweet potato for example). But it comes at a price. The big resorts have expensive restaurants, but it’s worth splurging on a fabulous meal every now and then. Cheaper restaurants can be found in the main town. Where to stay: At certain times of the year you can get affordable package deals in one of the big ritzy resorts that include airfares, accommodation and some meals. Check well-known travel sites. Samoa Home to chiefs, churches and spectacular sights, Samoa encapsulates the beauty of simple living and family values. It has it all. Postcard-perfect beaches, vibrant culture and cheap prices. But we think it’s fair to say that, keen rugby fans aside, most people know almost nothing about the 10 islands that comprise Samoa. For years now, Fiji, with its desert island beaches and cheap prices, has been the go-to destination for travellers looking for an idyllic,

Yasur volcano by night

budget-friendly South Pacific getaway. But times, they are a-changing and the Samoans are going all out to attract backpackers to their fair shores. Historically more aligned with the US, the powers-that-be have decided it’s time to make a seismic shift and buddy up with their culturally and geographically closer neighbours, Australia and New Zealand. It started a few years back when drivers woke up one day to suddenly discover they had to drive on the left, rather than right-hand side of the road. The next major step happened when Samoa redrew the International Date Line, placing themselves on the Aussie, rather than American, side. The impact of this for

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THE YASAWAS

FIJI ISLANDS ISLAND HOPPING

Independent travellers can free-style it or go the whole way with packages, island escapes and island hopping passes in Fijiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s stunning Yasawa Islands. Packages range from 5 to 12 days and include island accommodation, transfers, meals and activities. Island Hopping passes from only $234* (5 day) All inclusive packages from $518* (5 day 4 night) Island Stayputs from $186* (3 day 2 night) * Terms & conditions apply

For info and bookings see your Travel Centre or contact us.

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Alofaaga Blowholes people wanting a short break is huge, as Samoa is no longer a disorienting 21 hours behind Sydney, but now a much simpler three hours ahead. What to do: The best place to start a Samoan adventure is on the main island of Upolu, which is home to the capital Apia, which is more an amalgamation of sprawling villages than a bustling metropolis. Jump on the ferry to its bigger but quieter neighbour Savai’I, a rainforest-clad isle where beaches sparkle on one side and volcanic peaks rise in the distance on the other. There are 366 villages in Samoa, each boasting its own

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chief and at least two spectacular churches. Religion is extremely important and for this reason Sundays are a state of complete shutdown. We recommend a visit to the Alofaaga Blowholes where, on a good day, the water powers through the lava tubes, bursting more than 10 metres into the air. Like everything in Samoa, they come with a good story, with the blowholes symbolising an old Tongan princess who died in Samoa when the country was a Tongan colony. Now, whenever the blowholes, er, blow, it is said to be a sign of her king sending his love. Aww. Food and drink: Apia provides the island’s biggest spread of restaurants, bars and nightclubs. In terms of food, you’ll be munching on plenty of taro leaves, cooked green bananas and raw fish. You’ll also probably have lu’au, one of Samoa’s best-known dishes made from every-present taro leaves, onion and coconut cream, cooked in an umu, which is a traditional Samoan oven. In terms of drink, coconut juice and other freshly squeezed fruits are cheap and common in Samoa. We advise drinking bottled water too so don’t get tempted by the tap. Where to stay: For a budget night in Samoa, you can stay in what they call beach fales, which are small huts on the beach with a ceiling but no walls. They sound bad right? They’re not. Trust us. Plenty can be booked online including Jane’s Beach Fales (samoa.travel/accommodation/a29/Janes-BeachFales), which cost 80 Samoan Tala, about AU$36.

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SAMOA. FLY HIGH BENEATH THE GROUND. In Samoa you’ll find experiences to take your breath away. Stunning natural beauty and 3,000 year-old traditions you won’t find anywhere else. Adventures off the beaten track and off the diving platform. www.samoa.travel

SAMOA: FLY/DRIVE p *p 9 1 ,8 1 $ M O R F S T H 7 NIG Return economy class airfares with Virgin Samoa including all pre payable airport taxes and checked in baggage allowance 2 nights at Tanoa Tusitala Hotel in a Deluxe Room, located in Apia on Upolu 2 nights at Savaii Lagoon Resort Studio Beachfront, Savaii 3 nights at Le Vasa Resort in a Superior Oceanfront Fale, Upolu 3 days car hire – Getz or similar (excludes licence, petrol and insurance)

To Sua Giant Swimming Hole

All transfers and return ferry to Savaii with car BONUS: Breakfast daily at Savaii Lagoon Resort & Le Vasa Resort UPGRADE YOUR STAY: Add on extra nights at Tanoa Hotel for $115*per person per night or Savaii Lagoon Resort for $85*pp per night

EX SYDNEY FROM $1,819* PP · EX BRISBANE FROM $1,829* PP · EX MELBOURNE FROM $1,839* PP · EX ADELAIDE FROM $2,049* PP

Call 1300 358 382 Visit coralseas.com.au or see your local travel agent

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*CONDITIONS - ALL PRICES ARE QUOTED IN AUD, PER PERSON, TWIN SHARE AND ARE CORRECT AS AT 30/4/14. OFFERS ARE SUBJECT TO AVAILABILITY & CAN CHANGE WITHOUT NOTIFICATION DUE TO FLUCTUATIONS IN CHARGES AND CURRENCY. VALID FOR SALE AND TRAVEL FROM NOW - 31 MAR 15. FLIGHTS ARE WITH VIRGIN SAMOA BASED ON WHOLESALE AIRFARES AND ARE SUBJECT TO AVAILABILITY AT TIME OF BOOKING. TICKETS ARE INSTANT PURCHASE AND ARE TO BE PAID IN FULL UPON BOOKING. SURCHARGES MAY APPLY OVER SCHOOL HOLIDAY, CHRISTMAS & NEW YEAR PERIODS DUE TO AVAILABILITY. CREDIT CARD SURCHARGES APPLY. FOR FULL TERMS AND CONDITIONS PLEASE VIEWWWW.CORALSEAS.COM.AU/TERMS-AND-CONDITIONS. CORAL SEAS TRAVEL IS A DIVISION OF ADVENTURE WORLD TRAVEL PTY LTD. LIC 2TA5870. CODE: AW2091/AU010594

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OZCAREERS

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Fruity little number Get pruning and picking in Australia’s fruitiest regions WORDS IAN ARMITAGE

If you’re looking to get a 12-month extension on your Working Holiday Visa then you are in luck, the Australian government wants you to stay. But in return you must complete 88 days of work in what it calls a “specific industry in regional Australia”. Fruit picking is a great way of meeting that requirement and on assignment you’ll be housed, fed and watered for free. Here’s where to go...

Shepparton – Victoria Shepparton is the hub of the thriving Goulbourn Valley and there are not only plenty of employment options in the town, but you’ll find work in surrounding regions including Congupna, Grahamvale, Kyabram, Lemnos and Mooroopna. Crops produce tomatoes and stone fruits such as pears, peaches, cherries

and apricots, allowing for harvest work ranging from fruit picking to tree pruning depending on the time of year. January-March: Stonefruits January-May: Tomatoes March-May: Apples April-October: Tree pruning November-December: Cherries December: Apricots

The Riverland – South Australia Riverland, located on the mighty Murray River, is a large agricultural region well known for its orchards and vineyards. In its many towns you’ll find an abundance of varied fruit picking jobs at any time of year. January-April: Apples, pears and grapes May-February: Citrus fruits May-August: Vine pruning October-March: Oranges and stone fruits

Huonville – Tasmania Almost a fifth of Australia’s apples are grown and harvested in Tasmania. While sometimes overlooked, the lone state is arguably the most serene and picturesque of all. Huonville, 38km south of Hobart, is the premier apple region producing more than half of all Tasmania’s apples. The town also produces cherries, pears, mushrooms, apricots and plums. January-February: Apricots March-April: Grapes March-May: Apples December-February: Cherries December-May: Strawberries

Margaret River region – Western Australia This region is well known for its wine production and is home to more than 130 wineries, so you’ll never be short of finding vineyard employment (or a glass of local vino), with jobs ranging from grape picking to vine pruning, depending on the time of year. February-April: Grape picking June-August: Vine pruning Check out jobsearch.gov.au/harvesttrail or fruitpickingjobs. com.au for fruit-picking job listings across Australia.

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DESPERATELYSEEKING

Are you desperately seeking someone or something? Email ian.armitage@tntmagazine.com with your message Beloved aunt: Jim, I thought your reference to Curb your Enthusiasm in that meeting was brilliant, even if the rest of the marketing department didn’t. Let’s go out and offend people accidentally somewhere. Sofa, so good: This is a message for my housemate. Saffron, your cousin is SO fit – can we move him from the sofa in the lounge to my room? Please? Let’s be

Dear Anuska and Paul, I have taken the very expensive orchid from your room and I will not return it until you stop copulating in the bathroom before work. You both sound like chickens dying of cholera. Fishface: You were on the T1 enjoying a fish finger sandwich. It smelled so good. You did, too. May I take you out for a fish and chip dinner? The Codfather

THINGS TONY ABBOT SHOULD DO, JUST BECAUSE

Get in the fields to work as a fruit picker. How do you like those apples?

friends: Laura, I am so sorry I bailed and left you in that bar – I really like you, I just don’t fancy you. And I’m gay. So please can you forgive me, and still take me on that Mauritian cruise later on this year? Love George The root cause:

Lager, lager, lager: I saw a man trying to get everyone on the NightRider bus to sing along to Underworld’s ‘Born Slippy’ a few weeks ago – nobody joined in apart from me. Paul, if that is your name, please get in touch! You’re a fox!

Motherload: Ciaran, I’ve told my dad about your outrageous flirting with my mum. He’s looking for you, and he’s quite cross. Tim Pun Lovin’ Criminal: I’m looking for someone who enjoys puns. I would have included one in this message but I couldn’t think of any. I work in finance and I read a lot. Gemma Bondi babe: I got off with you at around 2am last weekend at Bucket List. You were wearing a green leotard and some kind of mechanical helmet. Coffee? Pete Baby on board: To my wife Cass, I’m so pleased number 3 is on the way. I love you so much! Ben x Brotherly love: I am looking for a good-hearted woman that will love me for me. The last one left me for my brother. We aren’t talking. Family functions are awkward, especially for our kids. Dean Bikini thrill: If anyone is looking for a purple leopard-spotted bikini that was left on Bondi last week, I’ve got it. Happy to post it back but I’ve worn it a few times. Greg Waity Katy: Katy, I’ve heard of making a man wait for an answer, but this is ridiculous. I need to have a ‘yes’ or ‘no’ answer by the end of the week. Have you hidden the Sky remote, or not? Ted Salad days: You’re always in the office canteen with a salad and a book. I like your eyes. May I join you one of these days? Shy man Size matters: To the girls in the lift in the office just off Bishopsgate – your comments were laughable. Six inches is normal, we men do what we can with girth – and it’s highly unlikely we’d want to bang you lot, anyway! You were gross! H’andrew: Andy, you left your mittens at my house, along with your self-esteem and a crate of Bud. Love Julia x Ride on time: I don’t care that you love Black Box, Claire. If you play that song one more time at one of our parties I will see that you are evicted at once. I’m not kidding! Vicky x

SAY WHAT?! i found a note tied to the tree - he claimed to be edmund from the lion, the witch and the wardrobe.

whenever i hear my flatmate having sex, i leave the house until nightfall.

i’m scared about where the moon is. don’t try to pretend you’re not. i wrote something on my facebook that she didn’t like and now i can’t get out of going to her wedding. i will probably just get drunk then leave. it’s for the best.

apparently kurt cobain was killed by his twin brother. there are two of them. identical.

did you ever play ‘it’ at school? What? No, it’s definitely not based on a book by stephen king.

is it called billabong? the dried meat that looks like hard bacon? billatong?

i can’t stop fiddling with my fly. but it’s not my fault - the zip is broken. i’m not some kind of perv.

TNTDOWNUNDER.COM

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