743 by TNT MAGAZINE

July/August 2014 Issue 743

TRAVELLING RIGHT Be inspired to see the world in a different way

BIFFY CLYRO The Scottish rockers make their return

R E D N O W W O N S

New Zealand d n a z O in s e e slop ng! We hit th ii k s o g , s rm u snow sto If life gives yo

+ CULTURAL HUBS HOP-ON HOP-OFF TOURS CHINA IN YOUR HAND COMMONWEALTH GAMES

DESIGN 1

TOUR SEARCH For the last 30 years TNT Magazine has brought travel advice and news to a growing audience of travellers. 18 to 35 year olds from Australia, New Zealand, South Africa and Europe have been using TNT as their guide to living and working in the UK and Australia. With a growing audience comes growing demand and over quarter of a million users are now demanding travel offers and information for tours across the globe. Here at TNT we have listened to the demands of our readers and weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re excited to launch TNT Tours. Whether youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re looking for a weekend in Dublin, a group tour across Australia, or a ten day epic adventure in South America, the TNT Tour Search facility is here to meet your travel wishes. With tours being added on a daily basis and reviews to give you peace of mind, TNT Tours will become your primary destination when looking to travel anywhere around the globe and you know the process will be as good as you can get anywhere else, if not better.

t a ki n g y ou w h e re y ou d rea m t o be... tntmagazine.com/toursearch

EDITORIAL Editor Caroline Garnar Online Editor Vicky Anscombe TNT Australia Editorial Ian Armitage ian.armitage@tntmagazine.com Contributors Michael Gadd, Rory Platt, Sofia Levin, Tom Coote 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 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

FROM THE EDITOR Sun, sand and surf are synonymous with Australia, but snow? Na mate. But the storms that have been hitting our shores recently have paved the slopes of Australia’s snowfields with a thick dusting of the white stuff – some 50cm deep in places. Unfortunately for our writer, he visited Thredbo and Perisher pre-snow storm, but managed to entertain himself on the snow-gunned runs and by watching people fall flat on their faces when they hit a dirt patch. See page 40 to read about his experience, or if it’s the more commonly snowy mountains of New Zealand you are heading for, be sure to see our rundown of where to go and for what on page 66. As you are likely aware, both England and the Socceroos are out of the World Cup; although the Aussies are wagging their underdog tails after their impressive performance – and that’s a hell of a lot more than we can say for England. But this month the limelight shifts to the Commonwealth Games where Australia and England can expect to see some shiny gold medals coming their way. See page 30 for our top 14 athletes to watch at the upcoming Glasgow Games. While in Scotland, we had a chat to Scottish rockers Biffy Clyro who, after disappointing fans with their short set at Soundwave, are now fulfilling their promise to return, and with their biggest Australia tour to date (p22). We also catch up with the not-so-serious Axis of Awesome, the comedy band who are putting the world to rights one pizzeria at a time (p26). Elsewhere, we meet ordinary people setting off on extraordinary adventures, from giving up the day job to live a life of travel, to walking the Canning Stock Route for charity, you can’t help but be inspired by these intrepid travellers. And with that in mind, turn to page 38 for our top hop-on hop-off tours around Australia and New Zealand, or for somewhere a bit further afield, our Big Trip from page 82 explores the mystical land of China. If the travel bug is nibbling at your heels, get ready for it to consume you entirely and fly you away. Enjoy the ride!

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.

Try out Tasmania

Road tripping

South African beaches

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THIS MONTH DIARY 6 FOOD 10 DRINK 11 GIGS 12 PUBS

TRAVELLING RIGHT

BIFFY CLYRO

AXIS OF AWESOME

SPORT ROUND-UP 28 COMMONWEALTH GAMES 30 TRAVEL

TRAVEL DIARY 34 HOTSHOTS

ON THE COVER

TRAVEL REVIEW

SNOW WONDER

TOP 5: HOP-ON HOP-OFFS 38 OZ: OZ SNOW ADVENTURES 40 TOP 10: CULTURAL HUBS 44 NZ: SKI RESORTS

BIG TRIP: CHINA

40 & 66

We hit the slopes of Australia and NZ

TRAVELLING RIGHT

See the world in a new way

BIFFY CLYRO

The Scottish rockers make their return

COMM GAMES

Our top 14 athletes to watch

HOP-ON HOP OFFS

The best ways to see this fair land

AUSTRALIA LISTINGS

NEW ZEALAND LISTINGS

CAREERS 90 DESPERATELY SEEKING 4

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CULTURAL HUBS

Yes, Australia does have culture!

CHINA IN YOUR HAND Explore this mystical land

Check out TNT online for the latest news, gossip, gigs, bizarre headlines and awesome features

? T N T E R O M T N WA ! te travel team ri u o v fa r u o from y at’s on offer h w f o te s ta Here’s a

TRAVEL FEATURES & STORIES...

+ NEWS & REVIEWS

NZdiary Trip TRAVEL FEATURES & STORIES...NZ

JOBS, JOBS & MORE JOBS...

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OUR TOP PICKS DARWIN CUP CARNIVAL

SPLENDOUR IN THE GRASS

July 5-Aug 4 Darwin

Jul 25-27 Wooyung

One for all you horse racing fans, and it’s spread over a whole month. The Darwin Cup Carnival kicks off on Saturday July 5 and ends with the running of the Darwin Cup on Monday August 4. Betting, dressing up and booze. Win.

The line-up for this SITG is incredible - Outkast, London Grammar, Two Door Cinema Club and much more (see Travel Diary for details). Get ready to shake it like a polaroid picture and tell Ms. Jackson just how sorry you are...

From 9am Fannie Bay Racecourse darwinturfclub.org.au

11am onwards North Byron Parklands splendourinthegrass.com

$20+

$355

MUST DO MELBOURNE INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL July 31-Aug 17 Melbourne The Melbourne International Film Festival is Australia’s top cinema event. Now in its 28th year it promises to be as big as ever. This year’s festival kicks off with Predestination, a locally shot time travel thriller with Ethan Hawke. $20+

See Ethan Hawke’s latest film

Melbourne

miff.com.au

KANGAROO HOPPET

WALKING WITH SPIRITS

GARMA FESTIVAL

AUSTRALIAN SURF FESTIVAL

July 11-13 Victoria

July 26 Katherine, NT

Aug 1-4 Gove Penninsula

Aug 2-19 Coffs Harbour

Brilliant name. Nothing to do with kangaroos, though, sorry. It is actually a cross country ski event. You can go along and support these dedicated/ crazy people who wear skin-tight Lycra on their travels. You should wrap up!

Malkgulumbu (Beswick Falls) is a hidden treasure on Jawoyn Land in the South Western corner of Arnhem Land. This incredible site is open to the public for one weekend, just once a year. It is an event like no other.

The Garma Festival is well worth checking out. It is announced by the sounds of a didgeridoo no less, and is a great chance to learn more about the real Australia and its ancient culture (see Travel Diary for more details).

Watch as 500 surfers compete to be crowned Australian Champion. It’s the largest gathering of surfers in the country, although the event has moved from its traditional home at Port Macquarie this year.

Daily Nordic Bowl, Falls Creek hoppet.com.au

All day Central Arnhem Road djilpinarts.org.au

Times vary Nhulunbuy, NT garmafestival.com.au

Daily Coffs Harbour, NSW surfingaustralia.com

FREE

Times vary

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$145

$25+

FREE

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HENLEY-ON-TODD REGATTA Aug 16 Alice Springs, NT This is a boat race with an absolutely unique feel to it, because thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s no actual water. In fact in 1993 it had to be called off because of rain. Yes, rain! In the dry, sandy bed of the Todd River, men and women fashion themselves bottomless boats and race one another up and down the course. You might see a few pirates floating around. Entry is just $15. $15

10.30am onwards Northern end of the Todd River henleyontodd.com.au

DARWIN FESTIVAL Aug 7-24 Darwin

Aug 21-31 Melbourne

This festival celebrates Darwinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s revival from the destruction caused by Cyclone Tracy in 1974. Expect lots of fun, outdoor concerts, comedy and more, with free and paid events across Darwin. Take that Tracy!

This celebration of all things wordy returns to Melbourne. The 11-day programme looks awesome, with writers from around the world set to gather for all sorts, including talks, debates, performances, workshops and more.

The Grand Parade is 11.30am Around town darwinfestival.org.au

From `10am daily Fed Square, Melbourne mwf.com.au

FREE

Photos: Getty

MELBOURNE WRITERS FEST

FREE

OZDIARY

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Serie A champs Juve have stars like the beautifully bearded Pirlo

She’s a bit ga-ga but hey, roll with it...

NORTH

WEST

SOUTH

AUSTRALIAN OUTBACK MARATHON JUL 26 / 7.45AM / FREE If you thought the London Marathon was tough, you ain’t seen nothing. Spectating is free and you can see Uluru too (it’s just 10km away).

WWE RAW 2014 AUG 9 / TBC / $50+ WWE Raw is coming back for an action-packed night of wrestling. Boom!

STEVE-O AUSTRALIA TOUR AUG 1 / $66.85 A chance to see Jackass star Steve-O make a tit of himself no doubt...

Perth Arena

The Gov

Uluru National Park Lasseter Highway, Ayers Rock

700 Wellington Street Perth

FIRESIDE FESTIVAL AUG 1-31 / FREE Venues around the Canberra region turn up the heat in August for the capital’s annual celebration of winter, Fireside – a treat if you like the region’s wine and food. Various venues Canberra

LADY GAGA’S ARTRAVE: THE ARTPOP BALL AUG 20 / TBC / $92+ Get ready to rave, Little Monsters, Lady Gaga’s artRave: The ARTPOP ball world tour is coming to town. Perth Arena livenation.com.au

Darwin Convention Centre Darwin

darwinaboriginalartfair.com.au

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steveo.com

KASABIAN AUG 7 / 7PM / $76.80 Quick office poll showed we all love Kasabian. They’re awesome live and return to Australia during August. Thebarton Theatre Adelaide kasabian.co.uk

700 Wellington Street Perth

thepoachersway.com.au

DARWIN ABORIGINAL ART FAIR AUG 8-10 Unique opportunity to get some aboriginal art.

Adelaide

premier.ticketek.com.au

australianoutbackmarathon.com

This Jackass is heading Down Under

NORTH WEST FESTIVAL AUG 22-24 / TIMES VARY / $180 The ultimate Pilbara experience. Port Hedland Turf Club Port Hedland northwestfestival.com.au

KANYE WEST SEPT 7 / 7PM / $99 He’s just got married and celebrated his daughter’s 1st birthday. In September he’s heading Down Under. He might be a prat but he makes good music. Tickets will sell fast. Adelaide Entertainment Centre Adelaide

livenation.com.au

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NEW ZEALAND

THE ROCKS AROMA FESTIVAL 2014 JUL 1-27 / VARIOUS TIMES / FREE The Rocks Aroma Fest is a celebration of all things coffee. This year it has extended its usual one-day gathering to a whole month of coffee with workshops and events throughout July.

DUNEDIN CADBURY CHOCOLATE CARNIVAL JUL 12-18 / FROM NZ$15 Calling all chocolate addicts... New Zealand’s City of the South gets a chocolate coating in July as people of all ages enjoy a week of indulgent, delicious fun. Heaven.

The Rocks Sydney

therocks.com

WATCH THIS

Various venues Dunedin, New Zealand

SOUL OF SYDNEY JUL 20 / 1PM-LATE / $10 A regular feel-good disco jam, usually taking place at a secret location five minutes from the city. Live street art and music from DJs Stephen Allkins, Phil Toke and more. We love da funk. Secret location

FOOTBALL UNITED TOUR 2014 – WELLINGTON DOUBLE HEADER JULY 26 / 10AM-7.30PM / NZ$35 EPL clubs West Ham and Newcastle take on The A-League’s Sydney FC and Wellington Phoenix. Westpac Stadium

soulofsydney.org

15 Main North Road, Christchurch footballaustralia.com.au

ALISON WONDERLAND: BENDIGO AUG 1 / 8PM-5AM / $25 After wrapping up her sold-out Warehouse Project tour, Alison will perform a series of regional shows all over the country. Cnr Pall Mall and Mundy St, Bendigo

THE MAD HATTER’S BALL AUG 9 / 6.30PM-12AM / NZ$115 There is a place, like no place on Earth. A land full of wonder, mystery, and danger. Some say to survive it: You need to be as mad as a hatter... And we agree!

starbarbendigo.com.au

Cardboard Cathedral

Star Bar

Latimer Square, Christchurch

THE BAY RUN 2014 AUG 3 / 8AM A major Sydney running and walking event. The course is a 7km circuit around Iron Cove Bay. Go and cheer them along. Around Balmain Balmain

bayrun.com.au

empire.co.nz

VISA WELLINGTON ON A PLATE AUG 15-31 / VARIOUS TIMES / FREE It’s time to plate up. NZ’s tastiest culinary festival is coming... Nom, nom, nom. Food and wine galore. Various venues

A-LEAGUE ALL STARS VS JUVENTUS AUG 10 / 7.30PM / $59.50 Glamour clash between the A-League All Stars and Juventus, the most successful club in Italy’s history with a massive worldwide fan base. ANZ Stadium Edwin Flack Ave, Sydney Olympic Park footballaustralia.com.au

Wellington wellingtononaplate.com

THE ILLUSIONISTS 2.0 SEP 2-13 / VARIOUS TIMES / NZ$69+ Labelled ‘the next generation of magic’ this is a follow up to the huge hit that was the Illusionists. Exciting!

Photos: Getty

The Civic

BUSHIDO: WAY OF THE SAMURAI UNTIL NOV 4 / 10AM-5PM / FREE We’re absolutely fascinated by Japanese culture; if you are too this is the event for you. Learn about the Samurai and Bushido, their strict code of conduct which honoured virtues of honesty, courage, benevolence, respect, self-sacrifice, self-control, duty and loyalty. NGV International St Kilda

ngv.vic.gov.au

Cnr Queen & Wellesley Streets, Auckland eventfinder.co.nz

THE NORTH FACE FREESKI OPEN AUG 28-SEP 8 / 10AM-7.30PM / NZ$35 The ninth edition of this world-class event, an important one for the freeski community. Westpac Stadium 15 Main North Road, Christchurch

TRANSFORMERS: AGE OF EXTINCTION Those of us who grew up in the ’80s look on Optimus Prime as sorta like a second dad, just one who was the leader of the Autobots and regularly kicked bad guy ass. In more modern times, the Transformers have been rebooted and brought back to life by Hollywood and director Michael Bay in a mass of explosions and action. The films have had mixed reviews and male viewers were left distraught when Megan Fox was booted out after the second installment. Being as Optimus is so important to us, we figured we’d give this fourth film a shot anyways – even if it does ‘star’ Marky Mark. And guess what? It was better than we expected, mostly because they blew a lot of shit up. Age of Extinction is itself a reboot of sorts, trying to give the series a new lease of life – and flog a few toys. Sure, it isnt the best film ever, but it’s an improvement over the last two, even at 165 minutes long.

TBC

chocolatecarnival.co.nz

nzfreeskiopen.com

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BITE SIZE BEST BBQ JOINTS BIG BOY BBQ This popular Melbourne joint specialises in barbecued meat. It doesn’t matter whether you order a sandwich or a rack of ribs, the meat at BBB is always rubbed in an intoxicating mixture of spices before being smoked at a low temperature for up to 16 hours. Yum. bigboybbq.com.au

THE SMOKE BBQ There is only one place to go for American BBQ in Brisbane – The Smoke BBQ, which has been offering in-house smoked American BBQ fare to its guests since 1996. Pop in for lunch Tuesday to Thursday between 11.30am to 2pm and receive a $12 meal with any drink purchase. thesmokebbq.com.au

MEATMOTHER American BBQ, Melbourne

‘Eat or be eaten’, warns the blackboard menu at Meatmother, a mustvisit restaurant for any self-proclaimed carnivore. The fit-out focuses on flesh and bones with a feminine flair: industrial light fittings, meat cleavers, light boxes and delicate butcher-meets-anatomy class drawings. Downstairs the casual, backlit bar is stocked with craft beer and bourbon. THE GRUB BBQ is dished up on a first-come-first-served basis. Everything is smoked fresh for up to 12 hours each day, so if Meatmother sells out, you miss out. Go for the meat tray, an enamel dish stacked with the meat of your choosing, a rich side and some thick Texas toast – which is fried in fat and more butter than bread. If you can handle Jurassic-sized portions, opt for the glistening beef short rib; otherwise the peppery wagyu brisket latticed with juicy fat is a best seller, as are the succulent pork spare ribs. In the sides department, chipotle slaw and sprouts with lardons freshen things up, but it’s hard to go past gooey mac cheese and gravy mash. BEHIND THE BAR You can order wine and beer (Brooklyn Lager goes down a treat), but with cocktails such as smoky apple old fashions and bacon sours – complete with candied bacon strip – it would be sacrilegious not to order one. BILL PLEASE You can walk out of Meatmother feeling like a satisfied caveman for around $35 a pop, including a beer. Lunch is a bargain – you can pick up the brisket ‘Texas End’ sandwich with chipotle slaw and hot sauce for a tenner. VERDICT You’ll leave Meatmother craving a head of lettuce and clutching your gut, but it’s worth it for the experience. Keep an eye out for a second, bigger venue in the CBD, due to open in August. Love you tender, Meatmother. Sofia Levin

Photos: Facebook/Fancy Hank’s, Facebook/Meatmother

THE SCENE

FANCY HANK’S Melbourne food truck Fancy Hank’s serves up Texas-style BBQ in a bun. There’s a great BBQ smoky taste to the pulled pork ($10) which is served in fluffy bread with some red cabbage to add crunch. Fancy Hank’s moves about, so visit the website to see just where it is going to be next. fancyhanks.com

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167 Swan Street, Richmond

meatmother.com.au

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TWO ROW BAR Cult beer

Walking in, you’re tempted to order a latte not a beer. The interior fits the trendy north-side café mould with flowers atop a timber communal table, exposed light globes and flawless white walls. But look a little closer and you’ll notice that the flower jars are filled with malted barley. It’s the new home of Melbourne’s craft beer cult, where brew fanatics chat to knowledgeable, friendly staff at the bar and hang out with mates in plush leather chairs upstairs. BEHIND THE BAR The main draw card is the five constantly rotating taps. When we visited there was a kriek lambic Belgian beer made with fermented morello cherries, as well as Mikkelle Brunch Weasel, an American imperial stout-style beer brewed in Denmark. There’s also a permanent list of 14 Australian beers, along with limited-edition seasonal brews and more than 50 cellar beers that range from $12 to $42. And we haven’t even mentioned their bourbon and whiskey collection. THE GRUB A small menu tempts with soft pretzels with beer mustard, charcuterie and cheese platters and ploughman’s boards. Grilled cheese sandwiches are the signature dish. BILL PLEASE There’s something for every wallet size. You’ll pay the same price as anywhere else for more familiar brews, but you can also swap champagne for a special cellar beer to celebrate an occasion, such as the $67, 750ml imperial stout. VERDICT This local haunt has a warm, inviting feel. Brew virgins are more than welcome to join and can expect a free lesson in beer with their drink. Sofia Levin THE SCENE

3 OF THE BEST BEACH BARS

tworowbar.com.au

CAMBUS WALLACE

STUFFED BEAVER

THE ANCHOR

When you’re inside The Cambus Wallace on the Gold Coast it feels like the heart of a cargo ship, stacked with liquor and the joviality you might get on board at night. Indeed, the bar’s name comes from a shipwreck; The Cambus Wallace foundered off the Gold Coast near Stradbroke Island in 1894. We’re glad it’s been revived.

Bondi beach’s fantastically named Stuffed Beaver is a Canadian-themed sports bar – honest, it is not a strip joint. The decor is something to behold; think old framed photographs, music posters, and skateboard decks. Seriously cool. From the moment you arrive you know you’re in for a real treat. One word sums it up really: Dude.

Another Bondi joint, The Anchor has only been around since 2012, but has a bit of a cult following and is known for its cocktails made with love and affection. They taste so good you’ll want more, and then some more. Bondi Backpackers is nextdoor and the place is constantly heaving. Tequila’s their speciality. Margarita anyone?

thecambuswallace.com.au

stuffedbeaver.com.au

anchorbarbondi.com

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Photos: Stuffed Beaver, Facebook, Sofia Levin

351 Smith Street, Fitzroy, Victoria

GIGLISTINGS MUST SEE!

LILY ALLEN

SAT JULY 12 Kina Grannis $42.50 The Wintergarden, Auckland frontiertouring.com Lorde $75 Hordern Pavilion, Sydney frontiertouring.com Remi $20.50 Republic Bar, Hobart nicheproductions.com.au The Beards $25 Port Macquarie Panthers, Port Macquarie thebeards.com.au/tour

SUN JULY 13 The Beards FREE Hoey Moey Hotel, Coffs Harbour thebeards.com.au/tour

WED JULY 16 Kina Grannis $61.50 Athenaeum Theatre, Melbourne frontiertouring.com Lorde $75 Festival Hall, Melbourne frontiertouring.com The Beards $25 Karova Lounge,

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MUSTANG TNT ADS FOR JULY.indd 2

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Ballarat thebeards.com.au/tour

THU JULY 17 Kina Grannis $49.50 The Gov, Adelaide frontiertouring.com The Beards $25 The Barwom Club, Geelong thebeards.com.au/tour Gareth Emery $20 Platinum NIghtclub, Gold Coast totemonelove.com.au Remi $13.30 Solbar, Sunshine Coast nicheproductions.com.au

FRI JULY 18 Remi $20.95 Bowler Bar, Brisbane nicheproductions.com.au Gareth Emery $24.95 The Met, Brisbane totemonelove.com.au The Beards $25 170 Russell, Melbourne thebeards.com.au/tour

Photo: Getty

Melbourne and Sydney. July 24-25 Ahead of her Splendour In The Grass appearance, the UK popstar will play two side-shows â&#x20AC;&#x201C; one in Melbourne (July 24) and one in Sydney (July 25). It is the first time Lily will hit Australian shores in a good few years now (she last performed at Big Day Out Festival in 2010). frontiertouring.com

GIGLISTINGS SAT JULY 19 Kina Grannis $55.50 The Tivoli, Brisbane frontiertouring.com Lorde $75 Newcastle Entertainment Centre, Newcastle frontiertouring.com Remi $20.95 The Brewery, Byron Bay nicheproductions.com.au

SUN JULY 20 Kina Grannis $59.50 City Recital Hall Angel Place, Sydney frontiertouring.com Lorde $75 Brisbane Botanic Gardens, Brisbane frontiertouring.com

WED JULY 23 The Beards $25, Bar on the Hill, Newcastle thebeards.com.au/tour Metronomy $55 Astor Theatre, Perth songkick.com

THU JULY 24 London Grammar $69.50 Hordern Pavilion, Sydney secret-sounds.com.au

SAT JULY 25 The Beards $25 Fitzroy on the Hill, Newcastle thebeards.com.au/tour Metronomy $69.50 Forum Theatre, Melbourne songkick.com

MON JULY 28 Foster The People $18.40 Palais Theatre, Melbourne secret-sounds.com.au

TUE JULY 29 Foster The People $74.90 Enmore Theatre, Sydney secret-sounds.com.au

FRI AUG 1 Coolio $TBC Bottom End, Melbourne bandsintown.com

SUN AUG 3 Coolio $TBC Crown Casino, Perth bandsintown.com

MON AUG 4 Coolio $TBC Transit, Canberra bandsintown.com

TUE AUG 5 Kasabian $79.15 Metro City, Perth tickets.oztix.com.au Hanson $65 The Tivoli, Brisbane hanson.net

WED AUG 6 Hanson $65 The Coolangatta Hotel, The Gold Coast hanson.net

WED AUG 7 Coolio $TBC Republic Bar, Hobart bandsintown.com

FRI AUG 8 Hermanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Hermits $35 Kedron Wavel Services Club, Brisbane kedron-wavell.com.au Hanson $65 Enmore Theatre, Sydney premier.ticketek.com.au

SAT AUG 9 Kasabian $78.75 Festival Hall, Melbourne ticketmaster.com.au Bob Dylan $99 Claudelands Arena, Hamilton chuggentertainment.com Coolio $TBC Oxford Hotel, Darlinghurst, Sydney bandsintown.com Hanson $65 Palais Theatre, Melbourne hanson.net

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

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Mount Batten Hotel 701 George Street, CBD sydneycityhostels.com.au New Brighton Hotel 71 The Corso, Manly newbrightonhotel.com.au 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 Asian Beer Cafe Level 3 Melbourne Central, CBD asianbeercafe.com.au Bar Humbug 586 Little Bourke St, CBD barhumbug.com.au Brutale 18 Corrs Lane, CBD brutale.com.au Black Pearl 304 Brunswick St, Fitzroy blackpearlbar.com.au Cherry Bar 103 Flinders Lane, CBD cherrybar.com.au

The Night Owl 35 Elizabeth Street, CBD facebook.com

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

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

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

The Penny Black 420 Sydney Road, Brunswick thepennyblack.com.au The Tote 67-71 Johnston Street, Coll. thetotehotel.com Turf Bar 131 Queen St, CBD turfbar.com.au

ADELAIDE

Corner Hotel 57 Swan Street, Richmond cornerhotel.com

The Apple Bar 5-9 Synagogue Pl, CBD theapplebar.com.au

Eden Bar and Nightclub 1/163 Russell Street, CBD edenbar.com.au

Earl of Leicester Hotel 85 Leicester Street, Parkside earl.com.au

Esplanade Hotel 11 The Esplanade, St Kilda espy.com.au

Electric Circus 17 Crippen Place, CBD crippenplace.com

Northcote Social Club 301 High Street, Northcote northcotesocialclub.com

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

Palace Theatre 20-30 Bourke St, CBD palace.com.au

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

Shamiana 420 Lonsdale St, CBD shamiana.com.au Star Bar 160 Clarendon Street starbarhotel.com.au The Gin Mill 173 High St, Prahran theginmillprahran.com The Hi-Fi 125 Swanston Street, CBD thehifi.com.au

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PERTH The Clink 14-16 South Terrace, Fremantle theclink.com.au

BRISBANE Canvas Club 16b Logan St, Woolloongabba canvasclub.com.au GPO Hotel 740 Anne St, Fortitude Valley gpohotel.com.au Hotel LA 68 Petrie Terrace, CBD hotella.com.au Iceworks 157 Given Terrace, Paddington iceworks.com.au 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 The Met Nightclub 56a/256 Wickham St, Fortitude Valley themet.com.au

Subiaco Hotel 465 Hay Street, Subiaco subiacohotel.com.au

Toro Bar 416 Milton Rd, Auchenflower facebook.com

The Shed 69-71 Aberdeen St, Northbr. the-shed.com.au

Super Whatnot 48 Burnett Lane superwhatnot.com

SYDNEY’S CBD ISN’T JUST FOR SUITS... If you think the CBD is only for suits, the guys at Merivale want you to think again. The company has opened a brand new bar in the heart of the city with the feel of a pop-up and the energy of a low-slung Surry Hills dive bar, Work In Progress is shaking things up in a good way. 455 Chapel Street, South Yarra, Melbourne facebook.com.au/zhouzhoubar

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HOT NEWBIE

Eat Pizza Win $1000 PIMP MY PIZZA 2014 LAUNCHING JULY 14TH

GO TO WWW.PIMPMYPIZZA.COM.AU FOR ENTRY INSTRUCTIONS

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OZPUBS 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 Ba8 Lounge Bar Shangri-La Hotel, The Pier at the Marina, Pier Point ba8.com.au Dunwoody’s Tavern 317 Sheridan St, North Cairns dunwoodys.com.au Salt House 6/2 Pier Point Rd, CBD salthouse.com.au The Woolshed 24 Shields Street, CBD thewoolshed.com.au Vibe Bar and Lounge 39-49 Lake St. CBD vibebarcairns.com pub

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

follow us on Shipwrights Arms 29 Trumpeter St, Battery Point shipwrightarms.com.au The Duke 192 Macquarie Street CBD theduke.com.au

NEWCASTLE

53 Bull St, Cooks Hill facebook.com/theorihotel Premier Hotel 1 Brunker Rd, Broadmeadow hotelpremier.com.au Royal Inn Hotel Waratah 61/69 Station St, Waratah truelocal.com.au

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

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

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

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

Burwood Inn Hotel 77 Berner Street, Merewether theburwood.com.au Cambridge Hotel 789 Hunter St, CBD yourcambridge.com Cricketers Arms 61 Bruce St, Cooks Hill cricketersarmshotel.com.au Hamilton Hotel 442 Kingsford Smith Dve, Ham hamiltonhotel.com.au 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

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

CANBERRA Academy Club 15 Bunda St academyclub.com.au Cube Nightclub 33 Petrie Plaza cubenightclub.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

Byron Bay Brewery 1 Skinners Shoot Road byronbaybrewery.com.au

Glasshouse Nightclub 90 Crown Street facebook.com/ sucasawollongong

Cheeky Monkey’s 115 Jonson St cheekymonkeys.com.au

Grand Hotel 234 Keira Street wollongongnightlife.com.au

La La Land Level 1/6 Lawson St lalalandbyronbay.com.au

Harp Hotel 124 Corrimal Street wollongongnightlife.com.au

The Northern 35-43 Jonson St thenorthern.com.au

Ivory Nightclub 77 Crown Street wollongongnightlife.com.au

Treehouse on Belongil 25 Childe St treehouseonbelongil.com

OneFiveOne 150 Keira Street wollongongnightlife.com.au

Woody’s Surf Shack 90-96 Jonson St woodysbyronbay.com

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

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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 Firkin & Hound 21 Hartely St yourbars.com.au Monte’s Lounge Corner of Todd St & Stott Tce montes.net.au The Juicy Rump @ Lasseters 93 Barret Dr, Desert Springs lasseters.com.au The Rock Bar 78 Todd St therockbar.com.au Todd Tavern 1 Todd St toddtavern.com.au

THE BEST BAR IN OZ...? PROBABLY The Everleigh on Gertrude Street in Melbourne’s Fitzroy is a Prohibition-themed speakeasy like no other. We could spend sentences effusing over the beautiful surrounds and flawless staff, but this place is all about the cocktails. Go and enjoy. 1/150-156 Gertrude St, Fitzroy theeverleigh.com

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COCKTAILS AND DREAMS

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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 La Zeppa Kitchen 33 Drake St, Freemans Bay lazeppa.co.nz The Lumsden 444/448 Khyber Pass Rd, Newmarket thelumsden.co.nz

BACK IN BLACK

Malt Bar 442 Richmond Rd maltbar.co.nz Normanby Hotel 37 Normandy Rd, Mt Eden thenormanbyhotel.co.nz Parnell Bar & Grill 196 Parnell Rd, Parnell parnellbarandgrill.co.nz Queens Ferry Hotel 12 Vulcan Ln queensferryhotel.co.nz Shakespeare Brewery 61 Albert St shakespearehotel.co.nz Spitting Feathers 16 Wyndham St spittingfeathers.co.nz Sprig & Fern 2 Drake St, Freemans Bay

sprigandferntaverns.co.nz Tainui Tavern 33 Morrin Rd menumania.co.nz The Fox 85/87 Customs St W thefox.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

WELLINGTON Arbitrageur Wine Room 125 Featherston St arbitrageur.co.nz Bangalore Polo Club 63 Courtenay Pl, Te Aro bangalorepoloclub.co.nz Bodega 101 Ghuznee St bodega.co.nz Four Kings Sports Bar 7-11 Dixon St fourkings.co.nz Havana Coffee Works 163 Tory St, Te Aro havana..co.nz Hawthorn Lounge 82 Tory St, Te Aro hawthornlounge.co.nz J J Murphy & Co 119 Cuba St, Te Aro jjmurphy.co.nz

48 Courtenay Pl, Te Aro themalthouse.co.nz The Welsh Dragon Bar 10/12 Cambridge Terrace, Mt Victoria welshdragonbar.co.nz

CHRISTCHURCH Bealey’s Speight’s Ale House 263 Bealey Ave bealeysalehouse.co.nz Bailies Bar 1066 Colombo St, St Albans bailiesbar.co.nz Becks Southern Alehouse 155 Colombo St beckssouthernalehouse.co.nz The Brewers Arms 177 Papanui Rd, Merivale thebrewersarms.co.nz Burgers & Beers Inc 355 Colombo St, Sydenham burgersandbeersinc.co.nz Calendar Girls 196 Hereford St calendargirls.co.nz Darkroom 336 St Asaph St darkroombar.co.nz Empire Hotel Lyttelton 9 London St, Lyttelton empirelyttelton.co.nz Fox & Ferret Palms Palms Shopping Centre, 1 New Brighton Rd, Shirley foxpalms.co.nz Garden Hotel Bar 110 Marshland Rd, Shirley

gardenhotel.co.nz

Mac’s Brewbar 4 Taranaki St thebrewerybar.co.nz

Pegasus Arms 14 Oxford Terrace pegasus-arms.com

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

Tequila Mockingbird 98 Victoria St tequilamockingbird.co.nz

MIghty Mighty 104 Cuba St, Te Aro mightymighty.co.nz Molly Malones 134 Courtenay Pl, Te Aro mollymalones.co.nz

The Brewery 3 Garlands Rd, Woolston casselsbrewery.co.nz The Twisted Hop Pub 616 Ferry Rd thetwistedhop.co.nz

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

Monteiths Brewery Bar 53 Merrin St mbbmerrinst.co.nz

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

No. 4 Bar 4 Mansfield Ave, St Albans no4bar.co.nz

Sprig & Fern 342 Tinakori Rd sprigandferntaverns.co.nz The Apartment 25 Allen St, Te Aro theapartment.co.nz The Establishment Cnr of Courtenay Pl and Blair St theestablishment.co.nz The Green Man 25 Victoria St thegreenmanpub.co.nz The Malt House

HAMILTON Axces Bar 28 Alexandra St yellow.co.nz Bar 101 118 Victoria St bar101.co.nz Cock & Bull 1 Cnr Maui & Church St, Pukete cockandbull.co.nz CBD Corner Pub 26 Hood St

cbdpub.co.nz Easy Tiger Cocktail Bar 186 Victoria St easytigerbar.co.nz Foundation Bar Maahanga Dr, Te Awa foundationbar.co.nz

Soho 2 Crawford Rd, Inner Kaiti sohobar.co.nz The Poverty Bay Club 57/65 Customhouse St thepovertybayclub.co.nz

The Bank Bar & Brasserie Cnr Victoria St & Hood St thebank.co.nz

The Jolly Stockman 3 Saleyards Rd yellow.co.nz

The Cook 7 Cook St, Hamilton East thecook.net.nz

Verve Cafe & Bar 121 Gladstone Rd facebook.com

Speights Ale House 30 Liverpool St speights-hamilton.co.nz Wonder Horse 236 Victoria St wonderhorse.co.nz

WHANGAREI Dickens Inn 71 Cameron St, Vinetown dickensinn.co.nz Killer Prawn 26-28 Bank St killerprawn.co.nz

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

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

The Gintrap Restaurant & Bar 64 W Quay, Ahuriri gintrap.co.nz

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

The Rose Irish Pub 64 Hastings St masonic.co.nz

Parua Bay Tavern 1034 Whangarei Heads Rd, Parua Bay paruabaytavern.co.nz Split Bar Rathbone St splitrestaurant.co.nz s The Old Stone Butter Factory 8 Butter Factory Lane butterfactory.co.nz

DUNEDIN Angus Restaurant & Bar 7 St Andrew St angusdunedin.co.nz Alibi Bar 1 Princes St alibibar.co.nz Captain Cook Tavern 354 Great King St, N Dunedin thecaptaincook.co.nz Luna Bar 314 Highgate Roslyn lunaroslyn.co.nz Manny’s Level 1/91 St Andrew St mannysbar.co.nz Stilettos Revue Bar 319 Princes St stilettos.co.nz

GISBORNE Aladdin Bar/First Light Aikido 63 Peel St firstlighttaikido.net Lonestar Restaurant & Bar 60 The Esplanade, Inner Kaiti lonestar.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 The Mayfair 69 Devon St W themayfair.co.nz West Bar & Cafe 41 Tukapa St, Westown westbar.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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Ordinary people, extraordinary adventures Ever thought about giving it all up to dedicate yourself to a life of travel? Or how about doing an extreme physical challenge for charity? These six intrepid sorts didn’t just think it, they’re doing it... COMPILED BY CAROLINE GARNAR

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Clockwise from above; Dave, Susie, Sophie, Elliot and Max, Rose and Mick

Photos: Summit Fever Media,Castleberg Outdoors and Ford Skipton, whatsdavedoing.com, Thinkstock and supplied.

THE GLOBAL NOMAD WHO I’m Dave Dean, originally from New Zealand. WHAT For the last two-and-a-half years I’ve been living and working from the road, but the travel addiction started long before that. If there’s one thing guaranteed to make you want to get out and see the world, growing up in a little town in a little country at the bottom of the world is it. After finishing university and somehow falling into a technology career, I started my wanderings in the same way that many Antipodeans do – packing a few things into a backpack and heading for London. Starting was easy, but stopping has been much harder – although Lord knows I’ve given it a go. Several times I’ve tried to settle down: buying houses, cars, pets and all of the trappings of a more traditional life. Try as I might, though, that never quite worked for me, and after a year or two I’d find myself back travelling once again. After 13 years of juggling a corporate career and a backpack, I eventually figured out what I probably should have known all along –this wasn’t something I could keep doing forever. One or other of those things was going to have to give. It ended up being the career. WHEN In late 2011 I decided to travel full time and work from the road as a writer and tech guy. Since then I’ve spent most of my time in South-East

Asia, Australia and New Zealand, Central and Eastern Europe and North America. I’m not entirely sure where the rest of the year will find me – most likely either Central and South America or back to South East Asia for a while. I have no plans to stop any time soon. HOW I sold everything that wouldn’t fit in a backpack before I left, and had saved hard for several years to build up a buffer. I used to work in IT, but now fund my travels mainly as a writer and website owner. It’s an uncertain income that’s not particularly lucrative, but on average I roughly break even each year. WHY I could go on for hours about the benefits of this lifestyle for me, but it really all boils down to one word: freedom. I’ve realised that the freedom to choose where I base myself, who I spend my time with and how I earn a living is the most important thing in the world to me, and this is the best way for me to achieve it. Of course, beautiful beaches, exciting cultures, great food and never having to deal with winter aren’t exactly downsides either… THE BEST BIT It’s way too hard to pick out a ‘best bit’, but a few of my favourite experiences from the last few years include week-long road trips on a scooter in northern Thailand and the Mekong Delta, chartering a yacht with friends in Turkey and the Greek Islands, and eating my way through Mexico’s incredible street food for several months.

THE WORST BIT There are always low points when you travel – terrible bus rides, dirty dorm rooms, getting sick on the road – but the hardest part for me is being away from friends and family. I don’t see them for more than a few weeks each year, and that’s hard – particularly when my little nephew keeps asking when I’m coming home. It’s not easy. whatsdavedoing.com

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THE TREKKERS WHO Rose and Mick Weber, an Aussie husband and wife team. WHAT We’re walking the whole of the Canning Stock Route, Australia’s longest and toughest 4WD track, unassisted, to raise money for Suicide Awareness Australia. We are carrying backpacks as well as towing hiking trolleys along the 2,100km track. We’ll be eating dehydrated foods and topping up our water at the various wells and water sources along the way. We are starting the trek at Wiluna and Completing at Halls Creek. WHEN We set off on July 1 and we expect to take between six to eight weeks to complete the challenge. HOW We are self-funding our expenses and we have had numerous items donated. Our film crew has had most of the equipment they need donated by sponsors. However they are paying for all their own fuel and none of us will ›› TNTDOWNUNDER.COM

TNTADVENTURE

“

It really all boils down to one word: freedom

have financial income for the two months expected for the trek to be completed. WHY I lost my brother to suicide two years ago. He was a typical bloke who would not admit to anyone that he was depressed. We only found out after going through his belongings that he had numerous scripts for antidepressants and letters to get counselling. In my experience as a clinical nurse I have found that there is still so much stigma attached to mental illness, so people will not ask for help or admit they have a problem for fear of being judged by their peers. They go untreated, when there is a lot of help available out there. No matter how hard this 2,000km trek is going to be, it is still not as hard as what someone who is suicidal is facing every day. We want to show people that no matter how hard the road is in front of you, never give up putting one foot in front of the other. We want anyone who is in a dark place to yell out until someone will listen. We want them to get help without feeling they are labelled or judged. We want to stop the stigma. THE BEST BIT I am looking forward to the silence and peace of such an isolated place; the sheer beauty of the Australian outback; to achieve the challenge will be amazing, and also to have my amazing partner by my side every step of the way. THE WORST BIT I am worried about snakes, bull camels and the dingoes. suicideawareness.simplesite.com

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makingadifference.gofundraise.com.au

”

THE ZERO-BUDGET JET SETTERS WHO Max De Lucia, Sophie English and Elliot Lyte. We are three friends who met while studying at the Trinity Laban Conservatoire of Music and Dance in Greenwich, London. WHAT We went around the world in 14 days (Lisbon-Rio de Janeiro-New York-Sydney) without a budget or any plans on where to stay or what to do on our travels. WHEN We left on February 9 and arrived back in the UK on February 23. HOW We set up the website aroundtheworldin14days.co.uk to see if the power of the web and human kindness could get us around the world! Our trip was also powered by STATravel and Squarespace.com, and we had support from Knomo, Nokia, Black Eyewear and NOAD Suncream. WHY The three of us are all coming towards the end of four years of studying. We saw two free weeks in the calendar as an opportunity to think big and attempt ‘the impossible’ – to get around the world in 14 days. It seemed there was nothing to lose and everything to gain. The response we had was phenomenal. Tens of thousands of people from across the world checked out the project. People from all corners of the globe invited us to stay with them and had a desire to show us the way they live their lives. In return for the hospitality, we brought music straight to the doorsteps of communities and cultures worldwide, putting the people of those places at

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the heart of the music that we make. You can see the results on YouTube (type in “Sing With Me” filmed on the Nokia Lumia 1020). THE BEST BIT Going up to the statue of Christ the Redeemer and looking over Rio as the sun set was unbelievable. THE WORST BIT We had to speak on Australian TV – it was live so the pressure was certainly on. I’d never had my makeup done before so that was probably the worst moment! But in all seriousness, this was a complete once-in-a-lifetime experience and we are humbled by the incredible support we received from tens of thousands of people across the planet. aroundtheworldin14days.co.uk

Susie Stephen

Watching the sunset over Rio

THE RUNNER WHO Susie Stephen. I am a yoga teacher and coach. WHAT Celebrating the 100th anniversary of an expedition that was led by a lady from my home town of Darlington, England – Katherine Routledge. Katherine sailed to Easter Island in 1914 with her husband and a small crew on board a custom-built wooden schooner. I retraced sections of their route from Southampton to Easter Island on foot and by bike – and by plane, custom-built boats are harder to find! I broke the journey into three stages and each part consisted of an endurance challenge: 1. Darlington to Southampton was a 13-day ultra run, 320+ miles across England. 2. For Buenos Aires to Santiago I cycled 1,000 miles, including crossing over the Andes. 3. After my arrival on Easter Island, I ran the Rapa Nui marathon.

WHEN I started stage one on February 14 from Darlington, UK, and arrived in Southampton on February 26. Stage two began on April 12 in Buenos Aires, and stage three began at the end of May when I arrived on Rapa Nui to do the marathon on June 1. In total it took four months to complete. HOW This project was part-funded by sponsorship from Emerald Biogas, and also by a grant from Creative Darlington, whom will both host an exhibition about this project in September. We also ran a small crowd-sourcing campaign on Indiegogo and contributed funds towards the project personally. It was difficult to fit this project into my life, but I was lucky not to have a traditional ‘9-to-5’ job and a fairly flexible schedule. But finding time to fit in training, fundraising and things like blogging while doing everything else was no small task! My husband has been a great tower of strength and I couldn’t have done this without him. WHY The main reason is to recognise the work of Katherine. It was uncommon at that time for women to travel as far as Katherine did, and I think she set an example to others of what can be achieved through curiosity, persistence and hard work. I’ve also fundraised for an environmental project for Easter Island, to assist with fresh water issues on the island. THE BEST BIT It has to be cycling over the Andes, while the highlight of being on Rapa Nui was definitely running up to the highest sea cliffs on the volcanic crater, Rano Kau. THE WORST BIT When the road over the Andes closed due to early snow and we thought it was going to mean the end of the bike leg! longrunergy.com TNTDOWNUNDER.COM

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Scotch on the rock UK rockers Biffy Clyro teased us with a short set at Soundwave, but now they're coming back, as promised... INTERVIEW IAN ARMITAGE

Few UK rock bands have been as successful as Biffy Clyro. After more than 15 years of sweating it out on stage and releasing six albums, they exploded in 2013 with the awesome double-album Opposites before closing out Reading and Leeds in style. They've since become truly global, but this hasn't stopped them from working their arses off. The boys have been touring hard and popped Down Under earlier this year for Soundwave plus a few headline shows, between visits to the US, Russia, South Africa and Israel, where they've been "getting closer to the fans". The three childhood friends from Ayrshire in Scotland were brilliant at Soundwave, but many fans felt slightly ripped off that they were only afforded

L_R James, Simon and Ben

“ We like to try to surprise people ” a short set at the beginning of the day. Leading vocalist/guitarist Simon Neil proclaimed on stage that the band would be back to give fans a bit more of a show. And true to their word, they are. Only days after they left the country, Biffy announced they would return in September, on their biggest run of Australian shows to date. We caught up with bassist James Johnston while he was "taking some downtime" at home ahead of the band's headline gig at the Isle of Wight Festival in the UK and what is a hectic schedule of European gigs in the coming months. While he was looking forward to "rocking out", he seemed particularly excited about coming back to Australia to "finish some business".

"We like to try to surprise people" says James. And it's a welcome one too – the crowds will be bigger for sure. "Well, we never really expect anything; we’re just excited to come down and play a show and, of course, if a lot of people turn up, that’s going to be awesome! We’re not expectant; we’re always with the ‘take what we get’ sort of thing." Togetherness is a central theme with James and the guys, who have been in a band since they were 14 and 15 years old (James and Ben, who plays the drums, are twins, you may have noticed). The band formed in 1995 and they have been heavily influenced by the likes of Metallica, Nirvana, Foo Fighters and other heavy and prog rock acts.

They've released six albums since 2002, but it was their fourth, 2007’s Puzzle, that brought them into the mainstream in the UK, while Opposites has established them internationally (they're working on new album at the moment which "will be fresh". Exciting). TNT chatted to James to find out more... So where are you right now? At home in Scotland, wondering what it’s like for you in Oz, looking forward to some massive gigs over the next few months. And, of course, our trip back to your neck of the woods in September. Glad you brought that up; Simon announced on stage at Soundwave Festival that you’d be returning to do some headline shows... Let me just say Soundwave was great, playing with all those fantastic bands, but yeah we’re looking forward to coming back and playing our biggest run in Australia yet and doing our own shows on bigger sets. We’re looking forward to being on stage a bit longer and to taking people on a bit of a journey. We always put everything TNTDOWNUNDER.COM

we have into a show – always lots of energy, sing-a-longs and that sort of thing – and try to create a connection with the audience: You’re breathing the same air you know and totally in it together, you know? You're no stranger to these shores, although you don't come as regularly as we'd like. Do you like playing here? The audience in any country reflects the general mood of a place I think, a kind of vibe. Australia is such an amazing country and it’s got such a vibe all of its own. So you’ll have fun? Yeah (laughs). Australia is fucking great fun. Even watching the news is fun – they talk to you like you’re all sitting together in the pub (laughs); nothing like we get at home with the BBC! Biffy Clyro have truly become a global band in the last few years, having headlined main stages at festivals through the UK and Europe and with Opposites. How has the band changed since the Screwfish days (the band's original name)? We have grown up together and been through every experience and emotion you can – the joys of growing up and becoming men, having your first pint together, and some of the really sad and difficult moments that you have in life [like the death of Simon's mum in 2004]. I think it has made us really strong. I always think we were strong; we were lucky we started off as friends. You have to be in a band with somebody you like and care about and we are always lucky to have that on our side. It’s almost been 20 years since we started. It really doesn’t feel that long in some ways but in others it feels like two lifetimes. I think we have grown together; the dynamic has stayed pretty similar to be honest. It is simple having only three people. It isn’t like everything has to go to a committee and it takes ages to make a decision – we are all quite likeminded when it comes to how we want to sound, how to perform and that sort of thing. We share the same passions and interests when it comes to how this band should be. You guys in the press might say we are going from strength to strength (laughs) but that’s what’s happening. We still seem to have our 24

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best years. We are slightly puzzled by that but also very excited. Your performance headlining at Reading and Leeds in the UK in 2013 was epic and you all looked really relaxed on stage. Is it more fun to let loose and can we expect that when you tour here? We do still stress and want to get it right; we have that hunger and burning desire to make sure we go out there and fucking represent ourselves. You know, it only takes one chance to fuck it up and so we are always trying hard. With Reading and Leeds, we were up there at the biggest show we’ve done, the most pressure – and it had to be right – but we were able not just to get it right and play well but also really enjoy ourselves and the moment. Sometimes you come off a huge show and you know you played well and that the audience enjoyed it, but it is almost like you were living some sort of dream, or it just flashed past – you were concentrating so hard you barely came up for air. But I think we allow ourselves that moment now to take it in, soak it up and enjoy it. James, like you, I’m a twin. I’d probably kill mine if we worked together – we always finish each other’s sentences. You’re in a band with yours... It’s great (laughs). We don’t know anything different, do we? You know what it’s like with people asking you what it’s like being a twin – we just don’t know fucking know; we’ve never not been twins! You know? (laughs). Ben and I have a bond but I think we have that with Simon too. Anybody you spend time with, you love and care about, you begin to know how their brain works and what makes them tick and you understand each other. Being twins in a band has definitely been a factor in creating the dynamic between the three of us. I think it has gone a long way of creating this atmosphere where we look after and out for each other. We’re on the road a lot so you have to fucking stick together. ❚ Biffy Clyro return to Australia for a national headline tour from September 4-12. biffyclyro.com

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Axis of Awesome See those hot studs below? They’re about to rock your world... INTERVIEW CAROLINE GARNAR

also shooting scripted behind-the-scenes content to go along with it, so there’s a bit of a Spinal Tap element to it. You’re best known for your song ‘Four Chords’. Would you ever release a serious ‘four chord’ song to try to make some genuine hardcore cash. J: Yes. We did ‘Wrecking Ball’ and got Miley Cyrus to sing it. That went well. Did you direct the video too? J: Yeah we just snuck her onto a construction site and let her go crazy. That’s been very successful for us and we’ve funded many a drug addiction through that. B: I’ve got a gambling hobby, too. L: Don’t worry Benny, keep working on it and soon it will be a crippling addiction.

[Caption]

For anyone who hasn’t heard of you – curses to them – how would you describe yourselves? B: We are three human beings who sing the funniest songs in the world at audiences, who enjoy them.

So how did you guys meet? L: We actually auditioned separately for the 26

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Benny, you’re classically trained. Lee, could you already play guitar? L: Well... to say that would imply that I can currently play guitar. Err, I’m the guitar owner. Benny will tell me the chords and notes to play and I will say “I can’t play that”, and then I pretend to play, and that’s the compromise we agreed on. Would you say the comedy comes before the music then? L: Not necessarily. Jordan and I have a comedy background but Benny has a musical background, so we complement each other really well in that sense. We try really hard to make songs that the people will enjoy the music of, as well as the comedy. So what are you up to at the minute? J: We’re filming a new web series called ‘Axis all Areas’. It’s a series of music videos, but we’re

Do you know if any of the Game of Thrones cast saw your video? J: Not sure about the cast but a comedian friend interviewed RR Martin and showed him the clip. I believe his response was “Cool”.

Check out youtube.com/user/ axisofawesome for Axis of Awesome’s latest videos. Episode one of ‘Axis all Areas’ is due for release August 24.

Photo: supplied

And how about as individuals? J: I’m the lead singer of the band, and I’m pretty much the best at all things in the world, including Tetris, but also at being in a band. L: Some people say that I am the dumb one of the band. It’s not true, because I make sure I get my recommended daily intake of methylated spirits – I once drank a glow stick. Take that medical science. B: I guess people would say that I’m the downtrodden one of the band. J: The short one. B: Sure, that’s another way to put it. I’m the one who writes the music so I’m the star behind the scenes, but on stage I am the butt of all the jokes. J: He also spends time in mines, mining gold and keeping it away from dragons.

X-Factor but Simon Cowell said we weren’t any good on our own but he suggested we should form a band together. J: That was a master stroke. L: Yeah, he actually owns all of us individually.

Do you write your songs together? For example, for the lyrics to ‘Do They Know it’s Pizza?’ – was that inspired while fighting over the last two slices? B: Yeah, as a group of three we are eternally frustrated by pizzas cut into eight because it just makes meetings and having dinner together very difficult, and we felt like that was an issue that needed to be addressed as it keeps getting overlooked in the world. L: Some fans will often send us pictures of themselves with pizzas cut into 12. J: Another thing the fans do is, in ‘Rage of Thrones’ [their Rage Against the Machine-esque take on GoT] we sing about having a signed copy of A Feast for Crows, so fans bring copies of the book for us to sign them – so take that George RR Martin, we’re signing your books man.

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

CRAB RACING june 2014

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FLASHBACK... 2011

Biting ambition

NO BITEY, NO LIKEY: SUAREZ GIVEN FOURMONTH FOOTBALL BAN

FOOTBALL

It seems like someone needs to sit Luis Suarez down and explain the difference between Chiellini and cannelloni after the Uruguay striker had a nibble on the Italian defender as his side reached the last 16 of the Fifa World Cup. We hope it was worth it because, as a result, football’s world governing body has banned him from any football-related activity for four months, sending him packing from the World Cup. His latest indiscretion was during the Group D decider which Uruguay won 1-0, sending the Italians home. Worst of all, Suarez pretended to have been elbowed after the incident. ”These are just things that happen out on the pitch,” he said defiantly after the match. “It was just two of us inside the area and he bumped into me with his shoulder.” Suarez wasn’t alone. His teammates, the Uruguay camp and indeed the country as a whole was in denial – united by a desire to protect a player key to their ambitions and a clear belief that this was an unfair campaign of hate driven by foreign (and mainly British) media. Even Uruguay’s President was in on the act. “I did not see him bite anyone. But they give each other so many kicks and blows and normally they put up with it,” President Jose Mujica told reporters, describing Suarez as “an excellent player”. Fifa, the television replays, the rest of the world and Chiellini however 28

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This month Aussie Cadel Evans attempts to repeat his miraculous Tour de France-winning feat of 2011. The ride to the Champs-Elysees begins in Yorkshire, of all places, on July 5 with the first of three stages in England leading up to the Paris finish on July 27. all disagreed – and rightly so. Suarez now finds himself out in the cold (his punishment includes a stadium ban). “Such behaviour cannot be tolerated on any football pitch and in particular not at a Fifa World Cup when the eyes of millions of people are on the stars on the field,” Claudio Sulser, chairman of the Fifa Disciplinary Committee, said. The ban, which is the biggest in World Cup history, beats the eight games given to Italy’s Mauro Tassotti for elbowing Spain’s Luis Enrique (the now Barcelona manager) in 1994, and it means Suarez will miss the first nine games of the English Premier League season (nothing new there then). The 27-year-old has now been found guilty of biting three opponents in his career as well as racially abusing Patrice Evra, but this incident is by far the World Cup’s biggest controversy. We wonder if Liverpool will stand by him this time?

IN THE SPOTLIGHT If you’ve been fortunate enough to catch any of Brazil’s games during the World Cup you will have witnessed the brilliance of Neymar. He only turned 22 in February and has been phenomenal (so far) – not only living with the stardom and expectancy placed on his slender little shoulders, but embracing it and thriving on it. He is the poster boy for this World Cup and the hopes of a nation lie with him, but he isn’t fazed. Neymar is burdened by 10 times the expectations faced by the likes of Ronaldo and Messi, yet if he notices it at all, he appears to revel in the responsibility.

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HIGHLIGHTS

PREVIEW

Daniel Ricciardo

Rematch: India captain MS Dhoni returns to face Ian Bell

YOUNG INDIA OUT TO MAKE AMENDS FIVE-TEST SERIES FROM JULY 9 CRICKET

An India side in transition plays a packed Test schedule against England with five Tests jammed into 42 days. Just MS Dhoni, Gautam Gambhir and Ishant Sharma from the 18-man squad have played Tests in England, where the Indians’ form is diabolical. Their last visit here for five-dayers in 2011 ended in a 4-0 whitewash, which helped England to claim the title of No.1 in the world. Dhoni’s side also comes to take on Alastair Cook’s side having lost a history-making series at home.

England are now No.3 in the world, and hardly set the world alight in their series against Sri Lanka in which their best players were 24-year-old Sam Robson (an Australian) and Gary Ballance (from Zimbabwe). India are ‘rebuilding’ in the long form under former England coach Duncan Fletcher and are coming to England early for tour matches against Leicestershire and Derbyshire. Tests kick off at Trent Bridge from July 9 followed by Lord’s in London from July 17, Southampton from July 27, Old Trafford from August 7 and The Oval from August 15. Five ODIs and a Twenty 20 will follow.

Photos:Getty. Words: Michael Gadd and Ian Armitage

LET’S GET TRIVIAL | Commonwealth counting A total of 70 nations will compete for 261 gold medals across 17 sports at the 20th Commonwealth Games in Glasgow. Australia leads the all-time medal tally with 803 golds ahead of England (612), Canada (436), India (141) and New Zealand (130). Great Britain would still trail Australia with countries combined. In 2014, athletics has the most gold medals up for grabs with 50, closely followed by swimming (44). Weightlifting (19), gymnastics (20), boxing (13) and cycling (23) are the other big ones. Some sort of major world event has been held in Scotland’s most populous city every year in the past 10 years in the lead up to the opening ceremony on August 23 at Celtic Park. Unlike greedy Olympic games, there is only one mascot – Clyde the Thistle.

Clyde the Thistle

JUL 5-27 CYCLING: Tour de France JUL 9-13 Test cricket: England v India JUL 14 World Cup: FINAL JUL 17 Test cricket: England v India JUL 18 NRL: Parramatta v South Sydney JUL 18-20 F1: German Grand Prix JUL 21 NRL: St George v Manly JUL 23-AUG 3: Commonwealth Games JUL 24-29 Comm Games: Swimming JUL 25 NRL: Brisbane v Melbourne

D Day: July 13 JUL 25-27 F1: Hungarian Grand Prix JUL 27 Test cricket: England v India JUL 27-AUG 2 Comm Games: Athletics JUL 31 AFL: Fremantle v Carlton JUL 31-AUG 3: World Golf Championships AUG 1 NRL: Roosters v St George-Illawarra AUG 1 NRL: Canterbury v Penrith AUG 1 AFL: Sydney Swans v Essendon AUG 2 RUGBY: Women’s Rugby World Cup, France AUG 7 Test cricket: England v India AUG 1 AFL: Hawthorn v Melbourne AUG 11 FOOT: FA Community Shield AUG 13 FOOT: UEFA Super Cup TNTDOWNUNDER.COM

Fab 14 for Glasgow You think the Commonwealth Games doesn’t have star power? Think again. Here are 14 of the Empire’s finest to watch out for at Glasgow 2014 WORDS MICHAEL GADD

Sally Pearson 1. SALLY PEARSON 100m hurdles

3. TOM DALEY Diving

If her hamstring niggles are sorted, Sally will provide the Aussies with another magic moment from her awesome career. She’s come a long way since her outrageously brilliant celebrations after silver at the Beijing Olympics. Now she’s got gold at the London Olympics, World Indoor and Outdoor Championships and the Delhi 2010 Commonwealth Games to her name.

The Team GB favourite is fourth in the world diving ranking this year, the only diver in the Commonwealth in the top 14. He goes in as hot favourite.

2. JAMES MAGNUSSEN 100m freestyle The dual World Champion and most famous of the Aussie flops at London 2012 has pulled himself together. Will be interesting to see how he handles going down in the trials to Cameron McEvoy, who could light the pool up in Glasgow.

4. KATARINA JOHNSON-THOMPSON Pentathlon Out of the shadow of GB team-mate and Olympic champion Jessica Ennis who’s off having babies, KJT should shine in Glasgow. Her speed and jumping is brilliant and she’s improving in the power events.

5. NICK MATTHEW Squash Both English World Champions, Matthew in the men’s and Laura Massaro in the women’s, go into the Games as favourites. Matthew is defending champion in singles and doubles from Delhi.

6. THE BROWNLEES Triathlon Long the Aussies’ domain, the brothers Alistair and Jonny have dominated recent years – only a time penalty to Jonny in London 2012 kept them from going one-two for GB. Their closest rival, Javier Gomez from Spain, won’t be there.

7. ANNA MEARES Cycling Delhi and London 2012 gold medallist Anna Meares will compete in her fourth Games in Glasgow, equalling Kathy Watt’s record. She has six Games medals and this year could beat Watt’s career haul of seven to be Australia’s most successful cyclist.

Tom Daley

8. KENYA ON THE TRACK Athletics Kenya’s proud-running tradition sees them dominate

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Anna Meares (left)

James Magnussen

Valerie Adams

Mo Farah the track: in Delhi they won all but two golds in events longer than 400m, and in those events they got silver and bronze. In the 3,000m steeple they took all the men’s and women’s medals.

Nicola Adams 12. OZ v NZ Netball

After his marathon experiment, the World and Olympic 5km and 10km Champion will line up again on the track – chalk two golds up for England there.

In four Commonwealth Games there have been four finals with Australia and New Zealand in them – Oz won the first two and the Silver Ferns won the last two. Other nations such as England are catching up, but this remains one of the greatest rivalries in world sport. NZ won the last Comm Games final 66-64 in the third period of extra time!

10. CHAD LE CLOS 200m butterfly

13. NICOLA ADAMS Boxing

The big South African beat Michael Phelps by 0.05 seconds to take gold in the 200m fly at London 2012, which is awesome in itself. The BBC’s interview with his dad was even better!

Britain’s first Olympic gold medalist in women’s boxing goes into Glasgow as the favourite for the first time it’s being held at a Commonwealth Games.

11. VALERIE ADAMS Shot put

14. NEW ZEALAND Sevens

The Kenyans over long distances and Jamaicans over the shorter ones take the limelight at Comm Games, but spare a thought for the awesome New Zealander. A two-time Olympic Champion and four-time World Champion, she’s going for three Commonwealth golds in a row as well.

It will be a fifth consecutive Commonwealth gold for Gordon Tietjens’ side should they win in Glasgow, not far from the Borders where the game was first played 100 or so years ago. They came back from 10 points down to beat Australia in the Delhi final.

9. MO FARAH 5,000m and 10,000m

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MT152 TNT_Full Page Ad_March14.indd 1

27/03/14 2:51 pm

OZ TRAVEL LATE DEALS | TRAVEL DIARY | HOLIDAY SNAPS | TRAVEL LISTINGS BALLOON PLAN FLOATED FOR ULURU

Photos: Getty and Kiwi Experience

Tourists would get a bird’s eye view of Uluru from a tethered helium balloon in a new proposal from Ayers Rock Resort. Called Skyflyer, the balloon would give visitors a unique viewing platform of Uluru and Kata Tjuta as a safe alternative experience to climbing Uluru. Nice. ayersrockresort.com.aug.au

INSIDE

OZ SNOWFIELDS /40

TOP CULTURE HUBS /44

TOP 5 BUS TOURS /38

Australia’s mountains have received a lovely dump of snow, but don’t tell our writer Rory Platt who just left...

If you thought Australia was too young to have any culture, boy are you wrong. We rundown the country’s cultural hubs.

Fancy exploring Australia like a rockstar? (Well on a bus at least.) We find the top five hop-on hop-off tours.

TRAVELDIARY

ASK THE EXPERT

So fresh, so clean: Outkast are back but we’re not sure about the headwear

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xxxx

WINTER IN NZ

Skiing: Skiers and boarders flock to NZ in their thousands during the winter, fulfilling their powder dreams with a trip to one of its 13 “snow sure” ski fields including key areas in the South Island around Christchurch, Mount Cook, Wanaka and Queenstown, all with dramatic scenery and diverse runs. The North Island holds the country’s only skiable volcano at Mount Ruapehu with two commercial fields. See p66 for more info. Chocolate racing: For an extreme chocolate fix, the small South Island city of Dunedin comes up trumps in its annual Chocolate Carnival, held July 12-18. The event culminates in the famous Cadbury Jaffa race, which sees giant Cadbury Jaffas (balls of orange sugar-coated chocolate that have been made in New Zealand since 1931) hurtle their way down Baldwin street – the world’s steepest street with a gradient of 1:2.86. For sports lovers: New Zealand’s year of sport is set to spring into action with major sporting events on the cards this winter including West Ham and Newcastle playing an exhibition match at Wellington’s Westpac Stadium on July 26. See more at newzealand.com

Photos: Getty. Words: Ian Armitage

As the Southern Hemisphere gears up for winter, newzealand.com shares a few of the things you could get up to in God’s Own Country...

SPLENDOUR IN THE GRASS North Byron Parklands, Aus Outkast, Two Door Cinema Club, Lily Allen, London Grammar, Kelis, Metronomy... get ready to shake it like a polaroid picture as 25-27 Australia’s biggest winter music festival returns. Boots are a necessity, with the huge site pretty susceptible to Glastonbury-esque mud. JUL

WHY GO: The line-up for this year is huge, and Byron Bay is the backdrop. Need we say more? Probably not. WHAT ELSE? To get festival-goers in the Splendour mood, and “because three days of arts and music is never enough”, promoters have announced the official Splendour In The

BORYEONG MUD FEST

Boryeong, South Korea

Every year, thousands flock to bask in the mineral-rich 19-25 mud of the usually peaceful town of Boryeong. Slather yourself in the now world-famous mud and revel in the dirt for an experience like no other. Lots of messy fun. JUL

boryeongmudfestival.com

DARWIN FESTIVAL

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splendourinthegrass.com

GARMA FESTIVAL Gove Pennisula, Australia

You can spend a long time in Oz without learning much 1-4 about indigenous culture, so thank God for the Garma Festival – announced by the sounds of a didgeridoo no less. It’s a great chance to learn more about the real Australia. AUG

garmafestival.com.au

SUMMER SONIC

Darwin, Australia

Tokyo & Osaka, Japan

Borne out of the destruction caused by Cyclone Tracy in 7-24 1974, the Darwin Festival is a way of celebrating the city’s revival. Expect outdoor concerts, theatre, dance, comedy and more, with a mix of free and paid events.

Held simultaneously in Tokyo and Osaka, the 16-17 Summer Sonic Festival is one of The Land of the Rising Sun’s best music festivals. The line-up this year is huge with Arctic Monkeys, Little Mix, Queen & Adam Lambert and more.

AUG

Snow much fun: The NZ snowfields xxxx

Grass Pre-Party, taking place the night before the festival kicks off – on Thursday July 24 at The Northern in Byron Bay – with a lineup featuring seven artists billed for the event. Sweet! HOW MUCH: $355 for the weekend

darwinfestival.org.au

AUG

summersonic.com

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HOTSHOTS

WINNER

WINNER GIANTS CAUSEWAY, NORTHERN IRELAND Abbie Saunders, 28

TELL US MORE When we arrived at the Giants Causeway the sun was out, but by the time we climbed out to the end here it had suddenly clouded over and gone so dark; but I am thrilled that it did as the shot wouldn’t have been anywhere near as dramatic and moody in the sunshine. It summed up the atmosphere of ancient history here brilliantly.

RUNNER-UP GOLDEN GATE BRIDGE CLIMB, SAN FRANCISCO Tina Sullivan 32

TELL US MORE High noon, on a warm Autumn’s day, from atop the south tower of the Golden Gate Bridge. Long way down!

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 TNT’s Facebook page. For terms and conditions, see tntdownunder.com.

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GET ALONG IN HONG KONG HONG KONG

There is no better way to get to know a city than experiencing it through the eyes of a local (not literally; we’re talking metaphorically of course – don’t go all Hannibal Lecter on us). Enter stage right ‘Hong Kong Pals’, a new free-of-charge programme from the Hong Kong Tourism Board which offers just that. The programme enables you to hook up with a local volunteer, who are from all walks of life, and get an authentic insight into Asia’s World City. It’s brilliant idea if you ask us. Do you think Jackie Chan has signed up? discoverhongkong.com

JAKARTA YOUR (BUS) ENGINES INDONESIA

Visitors to Jakarta have a new way of exploring the city’s many tourist sites – five new air-conditioned double-decker tour buses have been introduced by the City Government. Their new toys enable tourists to enjoy free (that’s right, FREE) hop-on hop-off city tours through the diverse and bustling Indonesian capital. Operating from 7am to 7pm daily, they loop around the city centre and stop at all the major attractions, shopping malls and entertainment hotspots. Further buses will be added and the route expanded to include the Dutch colonial town of Kota Tua as well as the Blok M shopping quarter in the next couple of months, so watch this space. tourism-indonesia.co.uk 36

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Scenic Rim: We defy you not to laugh at that name, but it is indeed scenic, unlike other rims we can think of. Australia’s Green Cauldron – stretching from Byron Bay to the Gold Coast and inland to the Great Dividing Range – features subtropical rainforest and provides a window into the prehistoric past. Go and find yourself in the great expanse. greencauldrontours.com.au

SAY HELLO TO THE BLUES THIS WINTER SYDNEY

There’s no denying it; winter in Australia is pretty dull and dreary if you’re in a capital city. It’s grey, wet and chilly: you can’t go to the beach because it’s cold but it isn’t hat and scarf weather – it’s just ‘meh’. For Sydneysiders wanting to experience the full wrath and glory of winter, head to the Blue Mountains. which is an almost permanently cool, if not downright freezing, winter destination. Just a two-hour train ride away, you can stay at the Blue Mountains YHA which claims to be a ‘home from home’, with a cosy log fire and huge communal room (formerly a Cabaret Club ballroom). The YHA is easy walking distance to

the famous Echo Point and Three Sisters Lookout, or for the more adventurous, ‘High n Wild’ can arrange abseiling and canyoning tours. Who said winter was boring? Not us! yha.com.au

GET INTO GEAR AND RIDE THE RED CENTRE

CENTRAL AUSTRALIA

Get your allen keys ready and be careful not to bust a nut... The Northern Territory Government is launching a new 12-month campaign under the ‘Ride the Red Centre’ banner to promote Central Australia as a mountain biking destination. The announcement follows the opening of the new $150,000 trail network at Alice Springs Telegraph Station, which is already

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MAD WORLD

COW PLAYS MATCH MAKER

NORTHERN IRELAND

Get on your bike and explore the Red Centre proving popular with locals and visitors. Outback Cycling offers tours with experienced riders departing from the Trail Station at the Alice Springs Telegraph Station Historical Reserve. They have also commenced bicycle rental at Uluru. Sir Chris Hoy has a lot of spare time these days, wonder if he fancies an outback ride? Sure beats Scotland. outbackcycling.com

The wonderfully weird Coober Pedy is the opal capital of the world...

MAN AWAKES TO SOVIET MISSILE RUSSIA

PHWOAR WHEEL DRIVE

Words: Ian Armitage. Photos: Thinkstock, Getty

ACROSS AUSTRALIA

There aren’t many things more fun than razzing around remote parts of the NT, WA and South Australia in a 4WD, so it was welcome news that Sacred Earth Safaris has announced two new tours. The first is a 13-day West Coast tour from Broome to Perth or vice versa, and includes must-sees such as the Karijini National Park, Millstream Chichester National Park, Tom Price, Kalbarri National Park, Ningaloo Reef National Park, The Pinnacles and Coral Bay. A 10-day Legendary Outback Tracks 4WD Tour from Adelaide is the second

Katrina Donaldson never thought that a prize-winning cow would play a significant part in finding the love of her life. Newlyweds Steven O’Kane, a farmer, and Katrina Donaldson, a livestock buyer, have Gorgeous the British Blue heifer to thank after meeting each other at a livestock show in Yorkshire. Katrina fell head over heels for Gorgeous and was allowed to purchase her on one condition, a date with the cow’s owner. Steven explained,“Katrina went through with the pretense on the first date, but then she fell in love with me.” The matchmaking cow was even present as the bride and groom exchanged their vows. Udderly lovely that is!

newbie and it visits the South Australian Outback taking in the Flinders Ranges, Arkaroola, Coober Pedy, Lake Eyre, William Creek, Big Red in the Simpson Desert and the Oodnadatta, Strzelecki and Birdsville Tracks. Cars, the outback, wonderful landmarks and heritage all in one go. sacredearthsafaris.com.au

A Siberian traffic policeman was expecting just another regular day. Instead he awoke to find a large Soviet rocket engine floating through his back yard. After heavy flooding in the southern Siberian village of Malougrenevo, the redundant missile had broken through heavy fencing from a neighbouring property, collecting two dogs along the way, now nick-named Belka and Strelka after two canines sent into space in 1960. The item was once used to carry fuel for missiles, however the police assured the item was in no way harmful at present. The owner Tatyana Zhdanova now plans to auction the rocket as an antique.

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TOPFIVE

HOP-ON HOP-OFFS

@tnt_downunder

Fancy touring like a rock star? With these hop-on hop-off bus tours you can(ish). Book a tour specific to an activity – like surfing, 4WD, wine – or just to explore a certain area, and your accommodation, food and equipment is often provided. Even better, many of the companies have flexible deals and allow you to create your own itineraries. Shop around for the one that suits you and kick back, see Australia and NZ in all their glory, and make new friends. Here are our top five to try...

OZ EXPERIENCE If you’re in Australia’s eastern half and looking for a hop-on hop-off tour that’ll take you from Sydney as far as Cairns, or Sydney to Alice and vice versa, the odds are that Oz Experience will have popped up somewhere – in conversation, in a blog, in a flyer in a hostel, a Google search or hopefully our magazine – they’re very popular with TNT readers. Oz Experience combines hop-on hop-off travel with essential tours and

experiences, with trips that include the Whitsundays, Fraser Island, Uluru, Kangaroo island, the Great Ocean Road, Maggie Island, the Great Barrier Reef and much more. Choose from tours such as Strewth, Beaut and Corker – the price range varies, from $395 to $1,739, as does length. Oz Experience has been doing this for years and enable you to chop and change as you go, so if you pre-booked your accommodation but wish you hadn’t after a couple of days, you can change it and stay a bit longer. This flexibility is pretty essential when exploring Oz because if you want to spend your time on as many beaches as you can, you can; if you want culture, you can have it; if you want adventure, you got it; or if you want to take in as much of Australia as possible, you can do that too. It is entirely up to you – it’s your tour. Best of all, you’ll make loads of new mates. Just make sure you wash. Buses are confined spaces you know! ozexperience.com

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TOPFIVE MY EXPERIENCE

Sara Hardman

GREYHOUND AUSTRALIA

KIWI EXPERIENCE

Less of a tour company and more of a coach network, Greyhound offers an extensive selection of routes as well as many day or short trips to the mustsee points across Oz. If you want to cover a whole bunch of stuff you’ll need the Kilometre Pass – several different options are available, ranging in price from $199 to $2,819 – and you can hop on and off and travel anywhere at your leisure.

Kiwi Experience, New Zealand’s original hop-on hop-off adventure bus, is another big hit with TNT readers. It allows you to meet fellow adventurers, guarantees the availability of accommodation and allows you to experience the best of what is a breathtakingly beautiful country. They offer 25 different experience passes so you can discover pretty much all NZ has to offer in one go.

greyhound.com.au/passes

kiwiexperience.com

SYDNEY TO CAIRNS WITH OZ EXPERIENCE WHAT DID IT INVOLVE?

I had 21 days and had three major priorities – lay on as many beaches as possible, make loads of new mates and try almost everything that comes along. I decided to go with Oz Experience because I wanted a ready-made package with like-minded people with the same agenda and, in truth, I didn’t want to be responsible for anything. WHERE DID YOU STOP?

Photos: Supplied, Faebook/Autopia, Facebook/Greyhound and Getty

Sydney, Spot X Surf Camp, Byron Bay, Surfers Paradise, Brisbane, Noosa, Rainbow Beach, Harvey Bay and Fraser Island, 1770, Airlie Beach and the Whitsundays, Katoombit Cattle Ranch, Magnetic Island, Mission Beach and Cairns.

INTEGRITY

AUTOPIA

If it is Western Australia you want to explore, you’ll need to know one name – Integrity. Established in 1998, their knowledge of WA is incredibly hard to beat. Why WA? The state is full of mustsee spots and breathtaking scenery, and with Integrity you can experience the best it has to offer – popular spots like Cervantes, Geraldton and Coral Bay – from as little as $245.

Autopia is another firm that has proven a big hit with TNT readers over the years, offering a number of smaller, goodvalue tours that enable you to explore Victoria and places like the Mornington Peninsular and the Yarra Valley. They have more than 20 years experience and are a name you can trust, picking you up from more than 30 locations throughout Greater Melbourne and the St Kilda area.

integritycoachlines.com.au

WHAT WAS THE HARDEST PART?

After living in Sydney for several months, it was hard to ditch the designer handbags and hundreds of pairs of heels and crawl back onto the rucksack road again, but the promise of drinking our way through 1,600 miles while seeing at least one koala, one ‘kangaroo crossing’ road sign and learning to surf was enough to sway me.

autopiatours.com.au

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If you’re happy and you snow it Thanks to the recent freak weather, Australia’s snowfields have received a healthy does of the white stuff. Get there before it melts! Although watch out for a jealous Rory Platt... WORDS RORY PLATT

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An early season trip down to the Snowy Mountains is a triedand-tested method for voluntary heart failure. I discovered this during the week prior to my visit as I fervently scanned the various weather reports hoping that maybe one of them would predict more than a 10% chance of snow. Each morning I’d wake up to check the snow cams up at Thredbo and Perisher, initially delight in the coverage provided by the multi-million dollar snow gun equipment powering overnight, only to have my hopes dashed on the rocks by mid-afternoon when it had all melted again. It was when I found myself hounding the Thredbo Twitter account that I knew I had gone too far. It won’t come as a surprise to you (I would hope) to hear that Australia is not particularly known for it’s skiing, so when planning a visit just keep your expectations in check. If you’re dreaming of knee-deep powder and long runs without a soul in sight, you’re in for a serious spoonful of disappointment. That’s not to say that I don’t love snowboarding in Australia – keeping in mind that I have visited much bigger and snowier mountains – because there’s something truly unique about the experience. You’ll feel it in the first lift of the day when you’re looking up the mountain, not towards rows of snow-dusted evergreens, but at eucalyptus trees against a backdrop of sheer white. They’re pretty much the same ones you’d see out in The Red Centre – the resilience of these trees is astounding. Also up here, kangaroos bound across snowy fields with barely a flinch at the harsh, cold winds. So I’m telling you that if you’re in New South Wales, Victoria or Tasmania when winter rolls in, you owe it to your future self to get out on those slopes. Remember when you didn’t even know that it snowed in Australia? Look at you now, reading a magazine article about skiing in Australia. You’ve come a long way, kid. There’s nowhere to go but up. To get things started, a trip to the slopes is not cheap, and once you get there you’re going to partake in a sport which requires fairly specialist equipment. Jeans and flip-flops just won’t cut it. Luckily just about everything can be rented once you arrive – skis, boards, boots, jacket, trousers, helmet.

OZTRIP All except gloves. For some reason you have to buy gloves. Of course there is always a budget option to soothe your crippled wallet. One such way is with Oz Snow Adventures, which is how I made my way down to the Snowy Mountains. They’ll grab you from Central Station in Sydney and load you onto one of their coaches – at six hours it’s a long drive, but nothing that a couple of six packs can’t get you through (there’s a quiet bus if that’s more your style). We arrived at the Snowy Valley Resort in Jindabyne just a little after midnight, and sadly we were not allowed to roll straight into bed. Moonlight equipment fittings seem to be a tradition in Jindabyne, as most gear hire places will stay open 24 hours during the middle of the season. It’s the only way to ensure that you’re up and ready to hit the slopes first thing in the morning. As I said earlier, I’d been watching the snow report pretty closely in the week leading up to the trip, so I had a fairly good idea of what to expect. That morning, we were set to hit Thredbo on their first weekend open. The beginner slope, Friday Flat, was open, as were a few runs over in the Cruiser area. I’m no beginner, so the slow pace combined with the rather narrow snow gun run was not gonna cut it. I boarded the chairlift which, unsurprisingly, was snow free until we got near to the top. Looking at the trail map is a terrible tease, because if you visited Thredbo when all the trails were open and the snow was pumping you’d hardly have a negative word to say about it. Early season is a trade-off for sure as prices are much cheaper than during peak times, although if you’re new to the sport you’ll still get plenty out of an early season visit. It was about 9am when we hit the mountain, so conditions were favourable. After getting my snow legs back I was making turns without much trouble – though most maneuvering was done in order to avoid dirt patches. Despite it being early season the handful of runs available were good fun. There weren’t too many people up this high as beginners seemed to avoid this section all together.

Rory (middle) hit the slopes with Oz Snow Adventures

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Great snow conditions (after Rory left, oops) All-in-all I hit the same few runs available for most of the day, and conditions worsened with every skier and boarder that passed over them. By the time the last chair made its way up the mountain there were very few routes left to choose from, as most central lines had been scraped down to the grass. That being said, it was rather entertaining to encounter the occasional rider who failed to avoid the dirt patches, only to ‘flying squirrel’ forwards onto their face. I can highly recommend dedicating some time watching from the bottom of the slope with a beer in hand. We were rounded up again and hauled back to Jindabyne for the night. Everyone had a story of a spectacular bail, either their own or someone else’s, but the word going round Jindabyne that night was that Perisher had the best snow and most runs on offer. Without hesitation I opted to hit their slopes on the Sunday. Hearsay was right, there was definitely more snow and a better selection of runs – but sadly every man and his dog seemed to have heard the news. Despite significantly more snow, and therefore space, the extra people meant that it didn’t really feel less crowded than Thredbo. The major problem is that the way their open runs flowed meant that heading up to even the highest point still eventually funnelled you towards the onslaught of beginners on the main slope. Nothing interrupts a run quite like a row of snowboarders strapping in and clogging everything up. If you’ve been to Perisher before you might be familiar with the fairly daunting slope just before Bullwheel Run. It’s a real catch 22, as you need to get as much speed as you can in order to keep enough momentum to get past the long flat section – a nightmare for snowboarders. But go too fast and you might fall, then have to walk the whole flat section anyway. I’m not ashamed to say that I spent more than a couple of runs either scraping down that slope on my front, or losing momentum and having to unstrap, only to complete the walk of shame under the chairlift. As always there are plenty of expert/fearless skiers under the age of five to make you feel totally inadequate. On my way back towards the main lift, I decided to take a crack at the small terrain park that runs alongside the front 42

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valley. I waited patiently at the top, reading the rules like everyone always does, until a gap opened up. With a push up and a bound, I carved my way towards a small kicker in front of a fun box. The official term for the trick I attempted is a 50-50, but I threw in a variant which I have dubbed the 50-50 arse-plant. In my imagination the kids laughed and pointed at me lying flat on my back, but in reality no one really cared. With my ego slightly bruised and the wind knocked out of me, I retreated to the bar for a final beer before I said goodbye to my snowy weekend. I returned to Sydney feeling satisfied with my trip to the snow. The conditions weren’t perfect but, damn-it-all-to-hell, if I didn’t have a great time anyway. I did, however, break down into horrible metaphorical tears when, out of habit, I checked the snow report and saw that a storm had started the evening I left and finished 48 hours later, leaving behind 50cm of snow. Just my luck.

Where to stay There are a few options in the Snowy Mountains, but budget stuff isn’t easy to come by. As a general rule, it’s always cheaper to visit midweek. It’s also much less crowded on the slopes, so that’s a bonus too! Try your luck at the Snowy Mountains Backpackers in Jindabyne for your cheapest option. In peak season they charge $45 per bed for a six, eight or 10 person dorm during the week and an extra $5 on weekends. If you’d like to be a little closer to the action there’s always Thredbo YHA, located right in Thredbo Village. It’s a bit steep at $104 per bed midweek ($82 for YHA members), but since you’re at the foot of the slopes you can spend more time skiing and less time driving back and forth to Jindabyne. With accommodation you should take into consideration the parks pass fee, which is $27 a day per car. If you’re selfdriving with a car full of buddies it’s not too bad, but for a solo traveller you might consider taking a shuttle. If you stay on the slopes you can avoid the daily $27 if you take a coach in and out. This makes it a better option if you’re staying longer.

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Where to eat If you’re down in Jindabyne there are plenty of places that serve up a filling meal to help you recuperate after a hard slog on the mountains. Some are better than others (naturally), but most are a little pricier than you’re probably used to. For a decent-priced pub meal head to the Lake Jindabyne Hotel – they have a beautiful view over the lake as well. Or, if you’re after something a little different, try Cafe Darya. It’s one of the best restaurants in Jindabyne, serving up some fantastic Persian dishes. If you’re unfamiliar with the stereotypical cuisine on ski mountains it goes a little something like this – overpriced and bland, often served with chips. In spite of that I can recommend Berntis Restaurant & Grill up in Thredbo Village. Incredible food, cheaper beer than many other places on the slopes and decent value for your meals. Alternatively, you can self-cook. You’re a backpacker right? No need to blow all your hardearned fruit-picking cash in a weekend. There’s a Woolworths in Jindabyne, or a FoodWorks up in Thredbo Village. Your wallet will thank me.

Where to party

Photos: Thinkstock, Perisher, Rory Platt

Arguably, the most important component of skiing is the après-ski. In Jindy you’ll probably want to mingle with the backpackers over at Snowy Valley Resort. There’s usually a band on Saturday nights and happy hour between 8pm and 9pm. They pretty much stay open until you leave, which for a lot of people means far too late to hit the slopes the next day. Alternatively the Lake Jindabyne Hotel is a pretty good bet for getting your drink on. Up on the slopes of Thredbo you should pay a visit to the Schuss Bar, where there’s live music aplenty and a mean Canadian whiskey with added cinnamon known as the Fireball. They’re dead set to take back the title of ‘Best Live Music in the Alpine’, so keep an eye and ear out for some semi/demicelebrities gracing the stage. Over at Perisher, The Overflow Bar is the venue of choice for the locals. It’s nice and casual – pool tables, darts and live music too. Enter the pool competition on Tuesdays if you fancy yourself as a balls man/lady. You’ll find it in The Man From Snowy River Hotel in Perisher Valley.

Oz Snow Adventures operate a weekend coach trip starting at $245pp departing from Sydney, Wollongong and Canberra. Price includes two nights at Snowy Valley Resort, daily shuttle to Thredbo or Perisher Ski Tube, national park fees, two breakfasts, one three-course dinner and one lunch at The River Inn at Thredbo. Oz Snow’s discounted lift and gear rental packages in peak season for Threbdo start at $229pp and Perisher at $249pp. ozsnow.com

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TOPTEN

CULTURAL HUBS

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Most people snigger when the words ‘Australia’ and ‘culture’ are used in the same sentence. Okay, the landscape isn’t dotted with Roman aqueducts or majestic medieval or renaissance architecture, but the truth is, depsite the relatively short history of European settlement in Australia, the country has more than its fair share of culture. One could point out that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander societies are a continuance of the oldest surviving human culture in the world, and in places such as Uluru and Kakadu you can see tens of thousands of years of human history etched into the living rock. But you could also forget history entirely and think in terms of modern culture – take Melbourne’s arty laneways, for instance. Here’s our top 10 to prove Australia has got a cultured side...

ALICE SPRINGS

ULURU-KATA TJUTA

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In the remote, arid heart of Australia lies one of the country’s most culturally significant locations and iconic natural landmarks. The Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park covers more than 1,300sq km of rugged desert scrub and, of course, the two monoliths for which the park is named. The indigenous people of the region, the Anangu, have lived in the shadow of Uluru for thousands of years, and many of the locals will, with the help of an interpreter fluent in the local Pitjantjatjara language, conduct guided walks of some of the sites which are of particular importance to their wonderful culture. rooms, great people lovely The -guides tell snippets of local creation stories, which ming Pool SwiM large refer to- formations and areas along the base AKF of Uluru, ast as ort pickup - BRE Airp wifi e well as -anfre ancient race of people known as the Mala ar that who lers Cafe/B tra - fuN inhabited the ky area at vel the ‘beginning of time’. e als lov N the loc While eve the climbing of Uluru is discouraged, the nearby Valley of the Winds walk at Kata Tjuta is a wonderful 4 Traeger Ave, Alice Springs on the 7km walking alternative. A number of lookouts Ph 08-8952 1545 F 08-8952 8280 track provide beautiful views of the mind-boggling Free Call 1800 359 089 sandstone domes that erupt out of the red desert floor. www.anniesplacebackpackers.com

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CULTURAL HUBS

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Aboriginal art

The quirky town of Alice Springs is brimming with unique Australian art. The first stop is to learn about it, and there’s no better place than at Muk Muk Fine Art. While you may not be able to splash your cash on a big artwork, you’ll learn so much here about the origins and hallmarks of Aboriginal and contemporary Australian art – they even have artists working in the studio space, so you can watch the art come to life. Traditionally, all aboriginal storytelling was done in the sand and on the body for ceremony, but the iconography that was painted on the body is now painted onto canvas. It began in the ‘60s when an art teacher was invited to Papunya, a community outside Alice. He saw men drawing in the sand but it would blow away, so he invited them to paint a mural at his school and they enjoyed it so much they started painting on anything. It migrated to canvases and the world stage where Aboriginal artwork now commands big bucks – up to $2 million! mukmuk.com

ALICE SPRINGS

HOBART, TASMANIA

If it’s quintessentially unique cultural experiences you’re after, look no further than Alice Springs. For a town with the word ‘Springs’ in its name, it’s a dry and arid land. Indeed, the community holds a boat race in a dry creek bed (Henley-onTodd Regatta) and moody camels race across the red desert sands of Blatherskite Park in Lasseters Camel Cup. Larrikin culture at its best.

This Tasmanian beaut is Australia’s second oldest city and a wonderful example of colonial architecture blended seamlessly into a modern city. Hobart is one of Australia’s smallest capital cities, and so is best discovered on foot. A wonderful walk will take in the best cultural experiences on offer in the old part of town, including Battery Point, Salamanca and its famous markets. Culture central, people.

alicesprings.nt.gov.au

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THE ROCKS, SYDNEY

DARWIN

Sydney’s historic quarter, The Rocks, was once rife with prostitution, drugs and crime, but a massive facelift just a generation ago means it is now packed with some of the city’s best pubs and most captivating stories. Dominated by the towering metal of Sydney’s historic Harbour Bridge, first stop should be The Rocks Discovery Museum, where you can learn about Sydney before, during and after the infamous Captain Cook landed here.

It’s a real mixture between far-flung outpost and holiday resort, but Darwin also happens to be rich in culture. You can explore its Aboriginal heritage and relive the tragic 1974 cyclone in the Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory, and visit the galleries along palm-lined Mitchell Street. But the tropical climate means most of the cultural action happens outdoors, including the Deckchair Cinema and the Darwin Festival.

therocks.com

discovertasmania.com.au

australia.com/darwin

Words: Ian Armitage, Hugh Radojev and Stephanie Williams. Photos: Thinkstock, Getty, TNT

MUK MUK FINE ART

$365 $495

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CULTURAL HUBS

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ARNHEM LAND

South Australia is known as the Festival State and nowhere is that more apparent than in the picturesque capital of Adelaide. With its wide, tree-lined boulevards and abundance of beautiful parks, Adelaide is one of the more laid-back, easy-going cities in Australia. The Adelaide Fringe Festival, held annually in February and March, is one of the biggest and best known of Adelaide’s events. The festival usually features more than 4,000 local and international artists, singers, actors and comedians, and has become the largest festival of its kind in the Southern Hemisphere.

The beautiful Arnhem Land is one of the Top End’s biggest draws; an area of more than 94,000 sq km that is Aboriginal-owned and home to many different clan groups. It’s a cultural stronghold and also the home of the didgeridoo. Its rugged ranges are fringed with idyllic billabongs, flood plains, paper bark swamps and monsoonal rainforests; an amazingly beautiful wilderness. It’s likely that the first Aborigines, making their way across the Indonesian archipelago some 40-50,000 years ago, arrived here.

ADELAIDE FRINGE FESTIVAL

adelaidefringe.com.au

arnhemland-safaris.com

gua

Photos: getty, thinkstock, supplied and Facebook

MELBS LANEWAYS

CANBERRA

COOBER PEDY

Cultural experiences don’t get much more contemporary than those found in Melbourne’s colourful and lively laneways. You can grab a map of the laneways and wander the graffitiladen trail at your own speed, passing Federation Square, Majorca Building, Royal Arcade and more, while ducking in and out of cafés as and when you need a good hit.

The nation’s capital is one of the most beautiful cities in Australia. It’s also home to the National Art Gallery and the War Memorial Australia’s military history is a source of great pride for veterans and their families and the War Memorial is a poignant tribute well worth seeing. Indeed, it was recently name No.1 landmark in Oz by TripAdvisor. Unusual choice, but still.

Coober Pedy is possibly Australia’s strangest town. The area looks like a cross between Mars and a postapocalyptic wasteland. Indeed, it was the set for films like Mad Max 3 and Red Planet. It’s not only the opal capital of the world and so is riddled with mines, but it also has an underground Serbian Orthodox Church worth a look.

thatsmelbourne.com.au

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awm.gov.au

cooberpedy.sa.gov.au

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

HOEY MOEY BACKPACKERS 84 Ocean Parade, Coffs Harb. Rooms from $69 (including meal) Half way between Sydney and Brisbane, the Hoey Moey Backpackers is a great stopover point for backpackers travelling the east coast. It’s also the only hostel in Coffs Harbour with direct beach access. Winner.

Coffs Harbour

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

hoeymoey.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

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 MTNS 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

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

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

THE HUNTER VALLEY First and foremost the Hunter Valley is a wine region with more than 120 wineries and cellar doors from the areas of Pokolbin and Rothbury, to the heights of sunny Mountainview and the beautiful Wollombi Valley. The region is well known for its Semillon, Chardonnay, Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon and Verdelho wines, so pretty much any taste buds are likely to be satisfied. Drive yourself or take one of the many guided tours on offer with transport ranging from mini bus to chauffeured Pontiacs and limousines, horse-drawn carriages and mountain bikes.

winecountry.com.au

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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 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.

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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

er.

. . . E R E H Y L L A IN F E ’R YOU

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.

LIAʼS N TO DIVE WITH AUSTRA TAKE THE PLUNGE, LEAR VE PROFESSIONALS GREAT BARRIER REEF DI

Spirit of Queensland The Sunlander Tilt Train Spirit of the Outback The Westlander The Inlander Connecting Coach Connecting City Network

Thursday Island

Bamaga

Lizard Island

Cape York Peninsula Green Island

Cairns

QUEENSLAND Mount Isa

Cloncurry

Our 5 Day PADI Open water course is the most popular way to do it.

Townsville

Longreach Barcaldine

Whitsunday Islands

Proserpine

Hughenden

Winton

ree ked d er

Magnetic Island

Charters Towers

Julia Creek

Great Barrier Reef

Tully

Airlie Beach Mackay

Drummond Range Emerald Alpha

Yeppoon Heron Island

Rockhampton

Gladstone

Bundaberg Charleville Quilpie

Mitchell

Cunnamulla

Maryborough West Gympie Toowoomba

Lady Elliot Island Fraser Island

Hervey Bay Sunshine Coast

Brisbane Gold Coast

ree ) ey

se uise Be ght

Pacific Ocean

We also specialise in Liveaboard dive trips and all levels of dive education.

o the you

t ed. uck heir rns

Book your backpacker rail fares at queenslandrailtravel.com.au

www.prodivecairns.com

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

18/03/13 10:13 PM

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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: Thinkstock

IN THE SPOTLIGHT

MORETON BAY Some 30 minutes drive from Brisbane, the nearby Moreten Bay and Island region offers an array of beaches and spectacular blue waters perfect for swimming, surfing, snorkelling and sailing. Moreton is the largest of the bay islands and is great for the wilderness lover – it’s a bit like Fraser Island but without the crowds, a great place for 4WD driving down the beach and giving sandboarding a go. Best of all you can feed the friendly dolphins. visitbrisbane.com.au

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Australiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

Gold Coast

Famous for fun

AdventureGoldCoast.com

facebook.com/AdventureGoldCoast twitter.com/AdventureGoldCoast

TASLISTINGS

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HOBART STAY

LAUNCESTON DO

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

MONTGOMERY’S YHA 9 Argyle Street, Hobart. Dorms from $28 Good central location close to Constitution Dock and Franklin Square. It has also been recently renovated.

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

Hobart

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

montgomerys.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

Photos: Facebook/ Tasmania Parks and Wildlife Service & Montgomery’s

IN THE SPOTLIGHT

MARIA ISLAND NATIONAL PARK Maria Island National Park is a nature lovers’ wonderland where you can spot all types of animal, including forester kangaroos, Cape Barren geese and emus. This peaceful island has spectacular scenery, including fossil-lined sandstone and limestone cliffs. There’s also a semi-ruined village, originally a convict settlement, which adds an air of quiet history to this traffic-free haven. parks.tas.gov.au

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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

197-199 King St, Melbourne. Prices from $27 Budget accommodation smack-bang in the middle of Melbourne. Free breakfasts daily and a free pasta dinner on Wednesdays.

Melbourne kingstreetbackpackers.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

KING STREET BACKPACKERS

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

COOLIBAH LODGE

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

194 Brisbane Stt, Northbridge, WA. Rooms from $29 Northbridge is a historical and exciting area of Perth and this hostel is close enough to party the night away and still get a good night’s sleep.

Perth

coolibahlodge.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

Perth Beach YHA 256 West Coast Hwy, Scarbrough yha.com.au Planet Inn Backpackers 496 Newcastle St planetinn.com.au 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

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

Karijini Experience Travel to Karijini with Integrity Coach Lines THE ONLY COACH SERVICE TO KARIJINI IN AUSTRALIA Always wanted to experience the real Western Australia? Integrity Coach Lines and The Flying Sandgroper have teamed up to bring you an Australian adventure you will never forget. Book online at www.integritycoachlines.com.au

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HOP ON HOP OFF TICKET $365 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, Karijini National Park 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.

Photo: Coolibah Lodge

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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180 Goderich St ymcajewellhouse.com.au

South Perth. 08 9474 3551, perthzoo.wa.gov.au

Coolibah Lodge 194 Brisbane St coolibahlodge.com.au

Penguin Island 153 Arcadia Drive (corner of Penguin Road), Shoalwater, Perth. 08 9591 1333, penguinisland.com.au

PERTH DO 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 Perth Zoo 20 Labouchere Road,

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

Photo:Thinkstock

IN THE SPOTLIGHT

KUNUNURRA One of the last settlements of WA on the map – near the border of the Northern Territory – much of Baz Luhrmann’s film Australia, starring Hugh Jackman and Nicole Kidman, was filmed in Kununurra, a popular stop for backpackers heading to Darwin for fruit-picking work. kununurra.org.au

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WALISTINGS 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

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

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

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

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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

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

BROOME STAY Cable Beach Backpackers 12 Sanctuary Road. 1800 655 011,

cablebeachbackpackers.com Kimberley Club 62 Fredrick St 08 9192 3233,

kimberleyklub.com

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

CORAL BAY Ningaloo Club Robinson St

ningalooclub.com

NINGALOO REEF

Margaret River Lodge YHA 220 Railway Tce. 08 9757 9532, yha.com.au

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

Harmony Forest 248 Sebbes Rd. 08 9757 7055, harmonyforest.com.au

Ningaloo Club Coral Bay 08 9948 5100, ningalooclub.com

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

Excape Backpackers YHA Murat Rd, Exmouth. 08 9949 1200, yha.com.au

ESPERANCE Blue Waters Lodge YHA 299 Goldfields Rd,

yha.com.au

EXMOUTH Pete’s Exmouth Backpackers YHA Cnr Truscott Cres & Murat Rd

yha.com.au

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IN THE SPOTLIGHT

HAHNDORF Australian’s oldest surviving trendy German village is situated in the Adelaide Hills. Get the taste of Europe in this historical town with traditional beer, wine, and food. There are boutique cellars, bakeries, butchers (with German sausages) and small goods outlets lining the streets with fresh produce, and even the option to pick your own strawberries (when in season). There are heritage buildings, homes, galleries and museums to visit, so you can really get the feel of what it was like in the old days. Don’t forget to go a little further out to the wineries that SA is famous for. For the child inside, there is also a German model train farm.

ADELAIDE STAY Adelaide Backpackers Inn 112 Carrington St. 1800 24 77 25, abpi.com.au Adelaide Central YHA 135 Waymouth St. 08 8414 3010, yha.com.au Adelaide Travellers Inn 220 Hutt St. 08 8224 0753, adelaidebackpackers.com.au Annie’s Place 239 Franklin St. 1800 818 011, anniesplace.com.au Backpack Oz 144 Wakefield St. 1800 633 307, backpackoz.com.au Blue Galah Backpackers Lvl 1, 52-62, King William St. 08) 8231 9295, bluegalah.com.au Glenelg Beach Hostel 5-7 Moseley St. Glenelg. 1800 359 181, glenelgbeachhostel.com.au

Adelaide Zoo Frome Rd. 08 8267 3255, zoossa.com.au

COOBER PEDY

Haigh’s Chocolates Factory tours. 153 Greenhill Rd, Parkside 1800 819 757, haighschocolates.com.au Temptation Sailing Dolphin swimming, Glenelg. 04 1281 1838 dolphinboat.com.au

BAROSSA VAL Barossa Backpackers 9 Basedow Road, Tanunda. 08 8563 0198, barossa backpackers.com.au

Opal Cave Coober Pedy Hutchinson St. 08 8672 5028, opalcavecooberpedy.com.au Radeka Down Under 1 Oliver St. 1800 633 891, radekadownunder.com.au Riba’s Underground 1811 William Creek Rd. 08 8672 5614, camp-underground.com.au

KANGAROO IS Kangaroo Island YHA 33 Middle Terrace, Penneshaw. 08 8553 1344 yha.com.au Vivonne Bay Lodge 66 Knofel Drive, Vivonne Bay 13 13 01 sealink.com.au

RIVERLAND

Coodlie Park Farmstay

Harvest Trail Lodge Loxton. 08 8584 5646, harvesttrail.com.au

08 8687 0411

Nomads on Murray Sturt Highway, Kingston on Murray. 1800 665 166, nomadsworld.com

Baird Bay Ocean Eco Experience

Riverland Backpackers Labour Hire Services 08 8583 0211

Port Elliot Beach House YHA 13 The Strand, Port Elliot. 08 8554 2785 yha.com.au

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Photo:Thinkstock and Facebook/Hostel 109

Port Kenny.

coodliepark.com

Sea lion and dolphin swims. 08 8626 5017

bairdbay.com Calypso Star Charters Great white shark cage diving.

sharkcagediving.com.au Nullarbor Traveller Tours across to Perth. 1800 816 858

the-traveller.com.au Port Lincoln Tourist Park 11 Hindmarsh St. 08 8621 4444,

portlincolntouristpark.com.au Rodney Fox Shark Expeditions Great white shark cage diving. 08 8363 1788

My Place 257 Waymouth St. 1800 221 529, adelaidehostel.com.au

rodneyfox.com.au

FLINDERS RANGES

Shakespeare Hostel 123 Waymouth St. 1800 556 889, shakeys.com.au

Adelaide Oval Home to the Donald Bradman collection. War Memorial Drive. 08 8300 3800 adelaideoval.com.au

Flinders Highway,

08 8682 3939,

FLEURIEU PEN

Hostel 109 109 Carrington St. 1800 099 318, hostel109.com

ADELAIDE DO

EYRE PENINSULA

Berri Backpackers Sturt Highway, Berri. 08 8582 3144, berribackpackers.com.au

Angorichina Tourist Village

HOSTEL 109 109 Carrington St, Adelaide. Dorms from $34 Small, modern hostel in the heart of Adelaide. Everyone we know that has stayed here has nothing but good things to say – excellent facilities and friendly staff. Do you need anything more?

Adelaide

hostel109.com

08 8648 4842,

angorichinavillage.com.au Wilpena Pound Resort Wilpena Rd. 08 8648 0004,

wilpenapound.com.au

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NTLISTINGS

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

KATHERINE STAY

MUST SEE

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

CROCOSAURUS COVE Saltwater crocs are the most famous of the NT’s creatures, and if the idea of being face-to-face with one is appealing to you then you should visit Crocosaurus Cove park in Darwin. The ‘Cage of Death’ (reassuring) costs $160 for a single cage.

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

Darwin

crocosauruscove.com

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

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

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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

DECKCHAIR CINEMA Darwin’s Deckchair Cinema is an outdoor cinema that runs throughout the dry season (April to November). It features alternative and Aussie movies, with booze on sale. Bring a picnic and enjoy some cinema under the skies. deckchaircinema.com.au

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Photos: Facebook/ Deckchair Cinema and Getty

IN THE SPOTLIGHT

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Photo: Thinkstock

IN THE SPOTLIGHT

MACDONNELL RANGES The scenery around Alice Springs is dramatic. To the east, the Eastern MacDonnell Ranges are easily accessible by car and have some good walking trails and picnic areas. The Western MacDonnells have an array of spectacular gorges and ancient landforms. They can be explored by hiking the Larapinta Trail, by bicycle on a specially developed cycle track or by road.

Fly to Alice Springs from SYD/MELB from

$89.95

one way with Tiger Air TNTDOWNUNDER.COM

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NZ TRAVEL TRAVEL IDEAS | BIG TRIP | NORTH & SOUTH ISLAND LISTINGS

POWDER POWER /66 Strap in, goggle up and check out New Zealand’s best snowfields and ski resorts this winter...

Photos: Thinkstock, Getty, TNT

Carving it up

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NZTRIP Charge it: A full-day lift pass will set you back $85 or you can get an afternoon pass for $55. skiporters.co.nz

Best for intermediate: Treble Cone

Strap in, goggle-up and check out New Zealand’s best snowfields and ski resorts this winter WORDS ADELE ROGERS + IAN ARMITAGE

Woohoo! New Zealand’s ski season (June to October) is now under way. NZ offers some of the best skiing in the Southern Hemisphere and its resorts offer premier snow, the longest season in Australasia, and a variety of terrain. With our help, discover the best places to hit the slopes this winter...

Best for beginners: Porters The basics: The closest ski area to Christchurch – it’s some 89km away from the city – Porters (aka Porter Heights) has a complete range of ski and snowboard terrain to suit all abilities. Here you’ll find groomed runs, park terrain and scenery that will stop you in your tracks. There is something charming about Porters, where the atmosphere is contagiously friendly and welcoming. The relatively small ski

field is a great choice for beginners, however even expert riders won’t be disappointed, with the vertical drop offering long black runs such as Bluff Face and Big Mama. Good for a group of various skill levels. Where to stay: A comfortable day trip from Christchurch, which has something for everyone from hostels to 5-star hotels. Not for you? Look near Castlehill or Springfield. Where to party: Don’t expect London-style super clubs in Chirstchurch, but there’s something for everyone – and it’s a whole lot friendlier than the British capital. If you’re after a good feed and decent watering hole, you can’t go past ‘The Strip’ (Oxford Terrace). Packed with good restaurants-cum-bars, once the sun goes down, this is where the party’s at.

The basics: It’s not unusual to see blue skies above and a foot-and-a half of snow beneath your toes at Treble Cone – perfect conditions to fall all over the place as you try to find your mountain legs again. TC to the cool kids, this mountain, close to Wanaka in New Zealand’s Southern Alps, has excellent terrain, especially off-piste action. Be prepared to have your lungs explode from the crisp yet almost non-existent air. There are runs for all levels of snow lovers, with a quaint chalet for the hot chocolate afterwards. There’s even a Jazz Fun Park full of rails and jumps. Where to stay: There’s no accommodation on the slopes but Wanaka is your nearest town, only 40 minutes away. Punching above its weight for fun, this town has a few sweet hostels, a cinema and a good pub by the lake. National Geographic Magazine recently named Wanaka as one of the world’s top 25 ski towns, the only Southern Hemisphere inclusion to make the list. Where to party: Shooters is a lovely looking Lakefront bar where you can party into the small hours. Charge it: Lift passes are $99 for a full day on the slopes. treblecone.co.nz Best for experienced: Craigieburn The basics: Some of New Zealand’s most challenging patrolled terrain is found at this ski field. One you would not refer to as a ‘resort’, Craigieburn is reserved for adrenalin-seeking, hardcore ski enthusiasts, and it certainly lives up to its label as an expert rider’s ‘holy grail’. The steep narrow trails and natural powder bowls are reminiscent of terrain you would only find heliskiing. For an expert rider Craigieburn is unparalleled as the place to unleash your prowess on the difficult terrain of the Craigieburn Valley. Where to stay: The cosy slopeside ›› TNTDOWNUNDER.COM

NZTRIP Best for amazing views: Mount Hutt The basics: Famous for its deep, dry snow and for having a long season, Mt Hutt sits at the foot of the Southern Alps in Canterbury and the fields look back over the lush green Canterbury Plains and out to the Pacific Ocean. There’s a huge range of terrain, with plenty of space for novices to eat snow. Where to stay: Methven is a small town just down the hill with a couple of good backpackers; otherwise, Christchurch is a popular option. Where to party: A night out in Christchurch is merely a matter of deciding what you fancy. Charge it: A one day lift pass is $95. nzski.com/mthutt Mount Hutt is a popular for its deep snow accommodation is the seasonal home to a community of snow addicts from all over the globe who collectively share their stories at the aprés ski lounge and over dinner after a day on the slopes. Failing that, you can find off-mountain accommodation nearby or the town of Springfield is only 45km away. Where to party: Chuters bar at the main lodge (Koroheke) provides the perfect spot for a post-skiing drink. Charge it: $72 for a full day pass. craigieburn.co.nz

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Best for freestyling: Cardrona The basics: This is a great mountain for the average skier or boarder but it’s especially good for those who want to try their hand at freestyle stuff, with two halfpipes, a Big Air and gravity-cross course, and four terrain parks full of jumps and rails. Cardrona’s technical courses have a smooth learning curve. With wide open spaces, there are also plenty of lines to be had on a powder day. Where to stay: Cardrona is closer to Wanaka than to Queenstown, but if you’re looking for good nightlife stay

in Queenstown (it’s about 60 minutes away). There’s a wide range of hostels and lodges to choose from and shuttles to the ski field are available. It is possible, though, to stay in Cardrona Valley itself. Where to party: Those staying on-mountain will need to BYO supplies and nightlife, but a big day on the slopes can be thirsty work and with more bars and pubs than you can shake a stick at, Queenstown has no shortage of options. Searle Lane (searlelane.co.nz) is ideal for winding down and sampling beers from the local Arrow Brewery. Charge it: $99 will have you on the slopes all day. cardrona.com

Best for a bit of everything: The Remarkables The basics: The Remarkables are deserving of their name, rising from Queenstown and its surrounds like a wall of ice. It looks like you could fall from top to bottom with one leap. This all-round resort offers plenty of space to roam both in-bounds and off-piste. It has some steep and deep snow as well as the groomed corduroy. Slink down the hill after last runs and find yourself in aprés mode by a fire in one of Queenstown’s top bars. Where to stay: Queenstown is directly below Remarks. Once you get down the windy road it’s just a five-minute drive. Back to the hostel, take off your trousers and jacket, shower, jacket back on, happy hour. Where to party: Fans of alternative rock try Zephyr (Searle Lane), one of Queenstown’s newer bars, fitted out with crates of Speight’s beer and materials from Christchurch buildings demolished after the 2011 earthquake. Charge it: A day pass is $95, half day is $65 and the learner lift is $27. nzski.com/remarkables 70

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Best for night skiing: Coronet Peak The basics: Coronet Peak has a wide range of runs with a little something for everyone. This year 110 new lights have been installed to give riders and skiers more than 4km’s of accessible terrain after sunset, along with live entertainment. Where to stay: With Queenstown a short drive away, again that’s your best bet. Where to party: Mulled wine next to a fire awaits at Heidi’s Hut, a mountain chalet at the base of the Rocky Gully T-bar. Charge it: To spend the full day there is $98, while a half-day is $67. Night skiing is $51. nzski.com/coronetpeak Best for night affordability: Mount Cheeseman The basics: Duly renowned for being a tame ski field, great for a safe, beginners experience and also very affordable Mount Cheeseman is settled within an alpine basin the ski area is a serene wonderland of relaxed groomed runs, steeper trails and park features including jumps. Experienced riders can drop over the back to more adventurous off piste tracks leaving Mount Cheeseman practically devoid of intimidating speed-demons, so if you’re a beginner this place is your ultimate savior! Easy to maneuver T-Bars make accessing the mountain a breeze. Where to stay: Castle Hill Village is only a couple of kilometers from the base of the access road offering houses and lodges, alternatively Methven is a one hour drive away. Charge it: $79 will buy you the whole day, or $59 for a half day pass, but hold onto your hats! - it is only $10 for the beginners lift or $62 for a beginners lift, lesson and hire package. mtcheeseman.com

NEVIS UmeNtrGesY B 134 G IN W S NthEe woVIS rld’s biggest swing

Photos: Tourism New Zealand, Winter Festival

www.bungy.co.nz

TNTDOWNUNDER.COM 71 TNTDOWNUNDER.COM 71 738 FINAL NZList.indd 71

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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 Corner Victoria St & Albert St, Auckland. Dorm from $22 One of Auckland’s most centrally located backpackers hostel, just across from the spectacular Sky Tower.

Auckland

surfandsnow.co.nz

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.

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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,

Photo: Thinkstock

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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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DARGAVILLE

OTOROHANGA

TE KUITI STAY

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.

Just 59km south of Hamilton, many travellers use this small farming community as a base for visiting the Waitomo Caves.

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

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

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

MATAKOHE 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

SOLSCAPE ECO RETREAT 611 Wainui Rd, Raglan. Dorms from $24 Budget accommodation for the travelling surfer and mega close to the world-famous surf break, Manu Bay.

Kaihu Farm (BBH) 334 State Highway 12, Kaihu, 09 439 4004. The Greenhouse Hostel (BBH) 15 Gordon St, 09 439 6342, bbh.co.nz

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

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DARGAVILLE STAY

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Raglan

solscape.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,

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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.

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

Photo: Getty

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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

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

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

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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

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

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

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

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.

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.

Kiwiana (BBH) 73 Motuipipi St. 03 525 7676

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

Motueka i-SITE Visitors Centre 20 Wallace St, 03 528 6543, motuekaisite.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

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Golden Bay Barefoot Backpackers (BBH) 114 Commercial St. 03 525 7005, bare-foot.co.nz

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Airport shuttle bus 03 573 7125

PICTON STAY

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,

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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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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.

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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

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 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 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

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.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT LAKE WANAKA Wild mountains, rugged scenery, transparent shimmering turquoise lakes and spiralling trees make Lake Wanaka on South Island, like many of the ranges in the region, a hub for sports and activities. The hiking, skiing and cycling are regularly voted some of the world’s best. Sheltered by the Mount Aspiring range from the wet winds of the west, and the well-named ‘The Remarkables’ mountain range in the east, the clear, natural light, awesome defined hills and craggy rocks make for an inspiring environment. Yet,as much as the adventure activities thrive here and in nearby Queenstown, Wanaka has a lot more to offer too. Be sure to try the wine. lakewanaka.co.nz

Billy Browns (BBH)

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China in your hand Travelling the ancient trade route of the Silk Road, Tom Coote takes you on a journey of scenic parks, Chinese tea houses and temples with a neighbouring teacup ride When travelling the length of China along the ancient trade routes of the Silk Road, the only real way to do it is by train. Up until the 16th century, when new maritime routes opened up, the Silk Road had acted as the bridge between all the major civilisations – Egypt, China, India, Persia, Arabia, Byzantium and Rome – for more than a thousand years. Around 30% of the trade was made up of silk, but these routes would also carry fruit, plants, paper, art, compasses, jewels, gold, gunpowder – and the Black Death. More importantly, they carried ideas, skills and DNA. The best-known start and end points of the Silk Road are Chang’an (Xian), the old capital of China, and Byzantium 84

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(Constantinople/Istanbul), but many Silk Road trips bypass those cities all together. I began my journey along these ancient trade routes by travelling up from Luang Prebang in Laos by sleeper bus to Jinghong, before spending another night in a cramped bunk on a bumpy bus to arrive at Kunming. From then on, however, it is possible to travel all the way across China, to Kazakhstan and beyond through Central Asia, using the far more comfortable sleeper trains. They may cost a little more than the night buses but are reliable, far cleaner than they used to be, great value for money by European standards, provide you with a plentiful supply of hot water for instant noodles and tea, and will

BIGTRIP BIGTRIP

save you the cost of a night’s accommodation in a hostel or hotel. I’ve also always found that I sleep very well on trains, so unlike with the night buses – whose narrow bunk beds are often just a little too short for many Westerners – you don’t waste half the next day shuffling around like a sleepdeprived zombie. Kunming Kunming, the capital of Yunnan province, is home to more than five million people. It was once a gateway to the Silk Road and acted as a crossroads for trade between India, Myanmar and Tibet. According to the tourist brochures,

Kunming is also ‘the city of Eternal Spring’. On exiting the night bus from Jinghong on a chilly March morning, wearing only the shorts and T-shirts I’d been getting away with for months on South-East Asia, I was shivering so hard that I couldn’t even hold up my badly photocopied map of the sprawling metropolis. THINGS TO DO The large parks in all major Chinese cities are always popular with the locals who are often forced to live in large, grey tower blocks. As in many of these mega parks, Green Lake Park in Kunming features a large boating lake surrounded with pedal boats, scenic tea houses, giant chess sets, brightly painted outdoor gym equipment, and TNTDOWNUNDER.COM

Yuantong Temple, Kunming Cloudland International Hostel, Kunming

Teahouse, Chengdu

several groups of enthusiastic line dancers. All over China you find groups of all ages and abilities doing their own kind of choreographed dance routines. It seems similar to US-style country dancing but, like most cultural imports, it has been transposed and modified into a uniquely Chinese form of expression. There is none of the inhibition that you find among amateur dancers in the West and neither the dancers themselves nor the crowds that gather to watch them seem particularly concerned about just how good or bad the dancing actually is. It’s just a bit of fun and exercise. Not far from Green Lake Park is Yuantong Si, a Chan (Zen) Buddhist temple that was first built in the late eighth or ninth century. Over the years it has been restored and rebuilt a number of times. More recently it was expanded with money from Thailand. Unusually, it lies in a natural depression and you go down steps to the temple, rather than ascending. It is very popular among the huge numbers of domestic Chinese tourists (as is almost anything scenic that you can take your picture in front of). As the only Western tourist in the temple complex, I edged between the incense-lighting worshippers and tried to avoid walking into too many holiday snaps. I tried not to make a nuisance of myself and nobody seemed to mind me wandering around their holy place. Not all Western visitors have been so well tolerated. At the beginning of the 20th century, one of the French engineers who was working on the Kunming to Vietnam railway project set up house in the temple’s main building. There weren’t many nice places for foreigners to stay in Kunming at the time, so he selected the Yuantong Treasury hall as his place of residence. This didn’t go down too well with the locals who still wanted to be able to get into the temple to pray and burn incense sticks. It took a few months but they eventually managed to chuck him out. It would be difficult to imagine a Chinese engineer coming over to England and setting up house in the nearest cathedral because he couldn’t find anywhere else that was up to his standards. GOING OUT The most popular hangout that I found in Kunming is a trendy-looking café called Just Fruit. It’s full of teenagers playing cards, drinking fruit shakes and smoking. Unlike nearly everywhere else in Kunming, they have some English on their menu (among these youngsters, speaking English was considered to be very ‘cool’). The ice cream sundaes on the menu are particularly appealingly named. I was extremely tempted by ‘The Heaven of Ice Snow’ and ‘Heart Deeply Drank in a Romantic Feeling’ but eventually opted for ‘Love to get Occulty with Black Forest’. WHERE TO STAY I had meant to stay at the popular Cloudland International Hostel but got lost and ended up at another YHA instead (it wasn’t one of those ‘posh’ Chinese hostels with doors on the toilet cubicles). Chengdu

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Pictures: Getty, Thinkstock

As the the state capital of Sichuan (known for its spicy cuisine), Chengdu now has more than 15 million residents. On arriving at the train station in the early morning, it appeared that most of them were in the queue for the taxis. Having given up on that particular mode of transport, I then

BIGTRIP spend more than 15 minutes attempting to cross the road, so as to get out of the station. Having failed to even make it across one lane of traffic I was eventually propositioned by an old man on a moped. After a quick glance at the map he assured me that he knew where I wanted to go, before zooming out in between the oncoming cars, trucks and buses. Some 40 minutes later he gave up, abandoning me at the side of the road, without even a landmark in view to try and establish my whereabouts. Thankfully, although Chengdu as a whole is huge and sprawling, most of the main tourist attractions are actually located within quite a small area (and soon after getting lost I was offered a lift to my hostel by a friendly local family who had noticed me struggling with my map). Once oriented, it is possible to walk to most of the main sites, and most tourist hotels will offer affordable day trips to see the giant pandas. THINGS TO DO Not far from the Jinjiang River is a pedestrianised tourist complex revolving around the Wenshu Temple. Hordes of Chinese tourists gather around the souvenir shops and stalls selling the Chinese equivalent of sticks of rock and ‘kiss me quick’ hats. The Buddhist Temple – the biggest and best preserved in Chengdu – is more than 1,000 years old, attracting crowds from all around the country to burn incense and sacrificial paper money in return for blessings (around AD960 Chengdu became the first place to widely use paper money). Inside the Scriptures Hall is a white-jade statue of Buddha from Myanmar, incantations in Sanskrit from India, and gold-plated scripture from Japan. Chengdu is famous for its teahouses. The Chinese will sit around for hours while waiters wander around topping up their large white bowls of what appears to be a selection of twigs and garden clippings, with thermos flasks of boiling water. Tourists are usually directed to the ‘superior’ sections of the tea houses, which can cost up to 10 times more than the standard seating areas (although it will still cost you less than a cappuccino in any Western High Street). Undoubtedly, the biggest attraction for most foreign visitors is the Chengdu Panda Bear Breeding and Research Centre. It is usually visited on a day trip that includes minibus transportation, a video presentation, and a tour of the visitor centre, as well as the obligatory photo opportunities. Less well known, and also there to see, are the red pandas – they’re somewhere between a cat and a dog in size and look more like raccoons with a long bushy tail. Some scientists claim that they’re closely related to giant pandas, while others quite confidently state that they’re a completely different species. The fact that they look like totally different animals would seem to lend credence to the latter view. GOING OUT A popular night out is a visit to the Shefengyayun Sichuan Opera House. Most Sichuan Opera repertoires are adapted from the Chinese classical novels, mythologies, legends and folk tales. The performances are highly stylised and often acrobatic. WHERE TO STAY Highly recommended is Sim’s Cozy Garden Hostel. It offers a wide range of affordable accommodation including unusually attractive dorm rooms, good-value tours to the Panda Centre and Sichuan Opera, and will even book your onward train tickets for a small fee.

Wenshu Temple, Chengdu

Giant panda, Chengdu

Water wheel, Lanzhou TNTDOWNUNDER.COM

THINGS TO DO If Lanzhou is famous for anything, then it is for its water wheels. Until the 1950s around 250 enormous water wheels were still being used for irrigation along the Yellow River that runs through Lanzhou (the invention of the irrigation water wheel had travelled up the Silk Road from Roman Syria). Not many have survived the Cultural Revolution but some working reproductions have been built for the Water Wheel Garden as a tourist attraction. The park extends for a kilometre or so along the Yellow River and, as well as a line of scenic water wheels, it also features an amphitheatre for public performances, a rock museum (yep, rock) and a set of bronze statues depicting Chinese workers. Sometimes in the summer tourists are allowed to float across the river on traditional rafts made from inflated sheepskins. You probably wouldn’t drown if you fell out as they make you wear life jackets, but I wouldn’t fancy your chances if you accidentally swallowed anything. Like many other hillside parks in China, Five Springs Park is a mixture of ancient temples, elegant gardens and gaudily painted amusement rides. A hike up steep rockcut stairways will lead you to yet more temples, cut high up into the hillside, with views stretching out over the smog-ridden city, as far as the Yellow River. GOING OUT Although all large cities will have the usual selection of restaurants, nightclubs and karaoke bars, there is little in Lanzhou that is aimed specifically at tourists. If you get bored, you can always head over to one of the large internet cafés and be surrounded by dozens of Chinese teenagers, all blowing up mythical monsters and evil foreign invaders as loudly as possible. The speed of any internet connection is extremely variable and most social media and many news sites are blocked. There is also a strong likelihood that online email accounts will be infected with the many unblocked viruses. On no account should you use Chinese internet café’s to make any financial transactions! WHERE TO STAY There is apparently a hostel on the other side of town to the train station, but just two minutes right of the station I managed to find a nice budget hotel with a decent bathroom and satellite TV for less than the price of a private room in a hostel. Dunhuang The Dunhuang train station is surprisingly grand and modern, but around 12km out of town. It looks like an alien spaceship that has been abandoned in the desert. Having caught a minibus into the central market area of Dunhuang, I was struck by just how untypically Chinese both the city and the people look: there seem to be more mosques than Buddhist temples, many of the residents look more Central Asian than Han Chinese, and the whole atmosphere is very different to the large cities further east. Dunhuang, in Gansu province, used to be one of the most important cities in ancient China. The city was founded by Emperor Wudi of the Han dynasty in 111BC at the crossroads of two trading routes of the Silk Road. 88

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Temple at Crescent Lake, Dunhuang

Today, it is a highly popular holiday destination among China’s large numbers of camera-happy domestic tourists. THINGS TO DO Minibuses can easily be caught from the centre of town to the hugely popular Thousand Buddha Caves of Magao. According to local legend, the temple caves were first dug out in AD366 by a Buddhist monk called Le Zen who had a vision of a thousand Buddhas. The number of the temples eventually rose to more than a thousand, many of which were painted with elaborate murals by pilgrims passing along the Silk Road. These murals were intended as aids to meditation and as mnemonic devices but, perhaps more importantly, they had acted as teaching tools to inform illiterate Chinese of the ideas and philosophy of the Buddhism that had spread into China along the Silk Road. The price of the admission ticket includes the services of an English-speaking guide. The other major attraction at Dunhuang is the Mingsha Shan National Park, situated in one of the most scenic regions of the vast Gobi Desert. Most visitors opt to ascend the Echoing Sand Mountains on the back of a Bactrian camel, stopping only at the peak to slide down the sand on a sled, before snaking back around the epically proportioned dunes to the Crescent Moon Lake – formed in the shape of a half moon by a natural spring in the desert. The story goes that these dunes got their name after an army that was resting at this oasis was taken by surprise by a massive sand storm that completely submerged them, and that the sound you can sometimes hear echoing from the dunes is the screams of the still-buried soldiers. Others think that the sound has something to do with the wind and the shifting sand dunes but I prefer the first explanation.

BIGTRIP Urumqi

GOING OUT As a major domestic tourist attraction, the city centre features the usual entertainments for Chinese holidaymakers but little is aimed at foreign visitors. WHERE TO STAY Most independent travellers opt to stay at Charlie Jhong’s Guest House. It is situated a few kilometres out of town, right next to the sand dunes, but it is easy enough to catch a local minibus there or even to get a free lift from Charlie Jhong’s Café (run by the friendly owner’s wife) or Shirley’s Café (run by Charlie’s brother in law).

The Uyghur people from around Urumqi in Xianjiang province are really more Central Asian, in both appearance and culture, than they are Han Chinese. Like Tibet, it is a highly contested region of China. The recent rise in Uyghur nationalism and the demand for an independent state of Uyghurstan, or East Turkistan, is considered a great threat to the Chinese state. Apart from anything else, Xinxiang is rich in natural resources such as oil and natural gas that have yet to be anything like fully exploited by the national government. Strangely, there isn’t yet a direct connecting train from Dunhuang’s ultra modern new station to Urumqi, so you have to get a bus or shared taxi to Liuyan, around an hour’s drive from Dunhuang City. If you wish to carry on further along the Silk Road from Urumqi, then you can either catch a 24-hour bus to Kashgar, in the direction of Pakistan, before crossing over into Kyrgyzstan, or take the night train or bus to Almaty in Kazakhstan. THINGS TO DO Most of Urumqi’s attractions are found on Red Hill. As with most of the scenic temple and pagoda sites in China, a selection of rickety-looking fairground rides have been planted into the hillside. If all the reverence and spirituality become a bit tiresome you can always cheer yourself up with a ride on a big wheel or get spun around in a revolving teacup. It’s difficult to imagine this happening in other parts of the world – perhaps a a ghost train should run through Canterbury Cathedral? Or a big dipper could be bolted onto the roof of the Blue Mosque? GOING OUT Try one of the plentiful Uyghur restaurants, whose cuisine is closer in style to Turkish than to traditional Chinese. There is also a good food court at the shopping mall just along from Peoples’ Park. WHERE TO STAY I would recommend the White Birch YHA, just across the road from the Regional Museum, and backing on to another large park which is particularly popular with the enthusiastic fliers of large and colourful Chinese kites. You can read more in Tom’s book, Tearing up the Silk Road, tomcoote.net/tearing-up-the-silk-road.html

View from Red Hill, Urumqi TNTDOWNUNDER.COM

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Oooh Matron! Fantastic job prospects, decent pay and conditions, rewarding work... look no further. Nursing’s what you need WORDS BY IAN ARMITAGE

If you’ve got the caring touch (and the right qualifications) then you are in luck as Australia is crying out for nurses. It is one of the many jobs listed on the Skilled Occupation List – when a profession is on that list, migrants need not apply for permanent visas with the aid of employers – you can get a temporary work (skilled) 457 visa instead. It effectively means the Australian government wants you. Badly. And it is good news because it means fantastic job prospects, decent pay and conditions, and rewarding work awaits... you could say nurses in Australia have it pretty good, all in all. There’s such a shortage of qualified health workers that it’s very much a worker’s market. And, okay, you’re unlikely to go into nursing for the cash, but it’s good to be rewarded,

right? Rates of pay vary depending on experience but you are looking at a monthly salary of up to AU$7,500 (that’s approx £4,192.31). But there are criteria you’ll have to meet including your age, English language skills, qualifications and the country in which you obtained them (they’ll also have to be assessed by the relevant authority in Australia). These are subject to change so it is always best to double check (the Department of Immigration is a good starting point). Most important, though, is registering. It’s easy to do, and you’ll need to do it with the Australian Nursing & Midwifery Board (NMBA) which implemented a new model to assess qualifications of international nurses and midwives in February (your skills and qualifications will be assessed by the Australian Nursing and Midwifery Council). A full assessment will set you back AU$900 (around £500) and getting hold of a reference (such as MIMS) is advisable, as is getting your head around Australian drug brand names as soon as you can – they’re often different to the UK and other places around the world. Then it’s all about deciding where and what you want to do. You can go permanently, you can go temporarily (up to four years) and improve your skills, or you can even take a working holiday (ideal for registered nurses between 18 and 30 years old). Nursing is one of those jobs you can take anywhere in the world and you’d be crazy not to think about Australia, where demand for nurses will be strong for at least the next 10 years according to most experts. Good luck.

HELPFUL LINKS HCA Healthcare Australia Ph: 1300 422 247 healthcareaustralia.com.au Australian Nursing and Midwifery Board Ph: 1300 419 495 nursingmidwiferyboard.gov.au Allied Medistaff Nursing Agency Ph: (02) 9368 1501 www.medistaffnursing.com.au. Australian Nursing and Midwifery Council Ph: (02) 6257 7960 anmc.org.au 90

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Are you desperately seeking someone or something? Email ian.armitage@tntmagazine.com with your message Wedding belles: Massive congrats, Kevin and Emma! We hope that you have the best day. With love from V & S xx High fidelity: I admit to being an incessant list maker and saboteur of relationships, but am now ready for commitment. Rob Gordon Pug drug: To the gorgeous lady in the coral dress walking Betty the pug by through the park every day – you look so charming! Drink?

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THINGS TONY ABBOTT SHOULD DO, JUST BECAUSE...

SAY WHAT?! does it take 18 months for twins to be born? Or 9? i’m expecting and really worried it’s twins.

never try to cremate your dead pet in your oven. they do not turn to ashes...!

I mistook an owl for my alarm the other day. what a hoot.

By my calculations if i save $38 each week, I can have a million within three years! Sounds like a plan to me.

my mate told me that if you want to stop sneezing, you have to say ‘Mind the spider’ in a whisper.

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Hungry for love: I am a young female FBI agent taking a holiday and looking for some fun after hunting a serial killer. Clarice x Crabs in Syndey: Men of Pitt Street – don’t go home with a redhead backpacker called Petunia that you meet in Grandma’s Bar! I’ve got an STD from her! Not-so clever Dick (Richard) Huge surprise: Wendy, when you come home on July 11, make sure that you look under your bed. I might have left you a little something! Miss you already! Soph Public enemy: I’m handsome, charming and an infamous bank robber who is looking for a special gal to escape with after this one last job that will keep us rich. Let’s

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my work have organised a fun day. i’m not going. i’d rather sit at home, feeling sour.

someone tried to convince me the sun is a star. the sun is a sun you dipShiT!!!

here’s an idea - stop talking, finish your sandwich and come back to me. there. that’s better.

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