749 by TNT MAGAZINE

January 2015 Issue 749

IN W FIVE-DAY

A LA IS ND-HOPPING TRIP IN FIJI!

LIVING ON THE EDGE TOP 12 FOR 2015

Don’t dice with death, box with the f***er

It’s a brand new year, so fill it with fun stuff

! Y A D A I L A R T AUS

oming up c ty r a p y a d all re’s another e th : s r e v li ll Warning to a

+ FRASER ISLAND VICTORIA’S SECRETS EAST COAST TRAIL NZ’S TOP DESTINATION

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- SCORE YOURSELF -

$50 OFF YOUR TRIP AT STA TRAVEL Book in store today or phone 134 782

Terms and conditions apply. Valid on all new confirmed bookings made in conjunction with a minimum of $500 worth of accommodation, touring and/or travel insurance. Not to be used in conjunction with any other offer. Not redeemable for cash. Non refundable if part used. Offer expires 31 December 2015

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EDITORIAL Editor Caroline Garnar caroline.garnar@tntmagazine.com Contributors Andrew Westbrook, Michael Gadd, Rory Platt 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 Spotpress PICTURES Getty Images | iStock | TNT Images | Supplied TNT Magazine online tntdownunder.com

WHERE TO GET TNT

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

FROM THE EDITOR I love the start of a brand new year. It feels a bit like when you’ve bought a new note pad; it’s all blank and crisp, just waiting for you to fill it with all your witty anecdotes and inspirational quotes. Of course by about page five, your painfully neat handwriting has already started to evolve into a scrawl, plus there are crossings-out, doodles and torn paper. Page five, then, is a bit like March, when your resolution to be nicer to people takes a dent when that git pushes in front of you at the bar – talking of which you were supposed to be laying off the booze, oh and the plate of deep-fried carbs you just ordered... oops. The best way to resolve this, I think, is to give up on making holier-than-thou resolutions, and instead use the new year as an opportunity to update your ‘mustdo’ list. For inspiration, turn to page 26 where you will find the top Aussie events happening this year, and for advice on must-sees while you’re travelling around, see our top five Fraser Island activities on page 34, our East Coast traveller’s tick list on page 44, and our ‘behind-the-scenes’ secrets you should seek out when visiting Victoria on page 38. Over on page 66 we re-visit Lake Taupo to find out why it was voted as the best destination in New Zealand at 2015’s Golden Backpack Awards (yep, another one for the list), and on page 82 we go island hopping in the South Pacific for a stopover with a difference (sure beats the airport bar). Of course if you’re really thinking big, turn to page 18 to be inspired by some serious adventurers who live their lives with a side of ‘Oh my God, I think I’m going to die!’. Or to make a big change without risking life and limb, maybe this is the year to find that dream job of yours – even if you’re not quite sure what it is. Turn to page 88 for our expert’s tips. No matter what, let’s make 2015 a good one... at least until March.

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.

Sydney Mardi Gras

Top bungy jumps

Terrific Tassie

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THIS MONTH DIARY 6 FOOD 10 DRINK 11 AUSTRALIA DAY LISTINGS 12 PUBS

LIVING ON THE EDGE

CHATROOM 25 TOP 12 FOR 2015

SPORT ASIAN CUP 2015 28

TRAVEL TRAVEL BITES 32 TOP 5: FRASER ISLAND 34 OZ: STATE SECRETS

TOP 10: EAST COAST 44

ON THE COVER AUSTRALIA DAY!

There’s another all-day party comin’...

LIVING ON THE EDGE

Don’t dice with death, box with it

TOP 12 FOR 2015

NZ: LAKE TAUPO

It’s a new year, so fill it with fun stuff

BIG TRIP: SOUTH PACIFIC

FRASER ISLAND

Hit up this sandy spot’s top five

AUSTRALIA LISTINGS

NEW ZEALAND LISTINGS

VICTORIA’S SECRETS

This state has some gems to uncover

CAREERS 88 DESPERATELY SEEKING Cover image courtesy of Havaianas.

EAST COAST TRAIL

Follow the yellow sandy road

NZ’S TOP DESTINATION 66 Why Lake Taupo is on top

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WIN

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HOW TO ENTER

Go to tntdownunder.com/deals-and-competitions/competitions/ See webpage for terms and conditions. Winners will be selected at random.

Worth

$468

WIN A BULA PASS FOR TWO

AND ISLAND HOP FIJI Awesome Adventures Fiji is offering one lucky winner the chance to WIN a five-day Fiji Bula Pass for two people. With a Bula Pass in hand, the magnificent Yasawa Islands are open for exploration as and when you please! The pass is used for flexible vessel transfers onboard the Yasawa Flyer and is offered as unlimited island hopping for a duration of five to 21 days. You will need to book and pay for your own flights, accommodation and any additional expenses. The passes cannot be redeemed for cash and travel must be redeemed by November 30, 2015. Enter at tntdownunder.com/deals-andcompetitions/competitions/ Visit awesomefiji.com for further information about the Bula Pass and its other Fiji travel packages and passes

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OZDIARY

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OUR TOP PICKS MOONLIGHT CINEMA Until March Nationwide

T20 BIG BASH Until Jan 28 Nationwide

One of our fave events of the year. Based in Adelaide, Brisbane, Melbourne, Perth and Sydney, Moonlight sets up in scenic spots under the stars and shows a mixture of classic films and new releases almost every night.

Australia’s all-action, all-colour annual Twenty20 cricket tournament has eight teams representing six cities. Matches are on practically every evening so there are stacks of chances to see the all-star cast of players, including Kevin Pietersen, Mitchell Johnson and Andrew Flintoff.

Dusk Varies moonlight.com.au

Times vary Nationwide bigbash.com.au

$19+

$20+

MUST DO OZ DAY THONG CHALLENGE

Jan 26 North Bondi (NSW), Torquay (VIC), Glenelg (SA), Mooloolaba (QLD) and Cottesloe (WA) beaches What better way to spend Australia Day than in the sea on a giant inflatable thong? Even better, you’ll be raising money for local SLSC Nippers programmes and potentially breaking a record while you’re at it. Register for the Havaianas challenge, now in its 10th year, at havaianasthongchallenge.com.au. $10 goes to charity and the fee includes the inflatable. For more ideas on how to spend Oz Day weekend, see our listings on page 12.

$30

Join Havaianas’ Thong Challenge

SYDNEY FESTIVAL

AFC ASIAN CUP

Jan 8-26 Sydney

Jan 9-31 Nationwide

TAMWORTH FESTIVAL

Jan 10-Feb 15 Sydney

Jan 16-25 Tamworth

One of Australia’s most varied festivals. There are stacks of shows at venues such as the Opera House – queue in Martin Place early each morning as there are always a few $25 tickets for that day’s shows. Plus, there are huge free concerts in the Domain.

the cup pitting Asia’s top 16 footballing nations against each other. Games will be played in Melbourne, Canberra, Brisbane, Newcastle and Sydney. Australia’s group includes Oman, Kuwait and fellow favourite South Korea.

It’s hard to imagine a cinema with a better view. The screen literally rises from an inflatable on Sydney Harbour each evening, with the Harbour Bridge in the background. Tickets sell fast, but there are some on the gate each night.

43 years and is just about the biggest festival Down Under. It’s a veritable who’s who of the country music world, and even includes the annual Golden Guitars Awards. Acts include Kenny Rogers and Paul Kelly.

Times vary Sydney sydneyfestival.org.au

Times vary Nationwide afcasiancup.com

From 8.30pm Sydney CBD, NSW stgeorgeopenair.com.au

Times vary Tamworth, NSW tcmf.com.au

FREE

$5+ Australia plays host to

ST GEORGE OPEN AIR CINEMA $33+

$5+ It’s been running for

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Look out for the colourful helmets...

SANTOS TOUR DOWN UNDER Jan 17-25 Adelaide, South Australia South Australia goes crazy for the country’s equivalent of the Tour de France. Many of the world’s top road racers, such as Germany’s Marcel Kittel, will be in attendance for the six stages in and around Adelaide. Don’t miss the team presentation and free concert on Jan 17. FREE

Festival opener is from 6pm Adelaide CBD, South Australia

ST JEROMES LANEWAY FEST

AUSTRALIAN OPEN OF SURFING

Jan 31-Feb 8 Nationwide

Feb 7-15 Manly, NSW

A hipster-haven boutique festival that started in Melbourne’s laneways and now also visits Adelaide, Brisbane, Fremantle and Sydney, as well as Auckland. Acts this year include Little Dragon, St Vincent and Jon Hopkins.

This is exactly the sort of supercool event you imagine happening in Australia before you arrive. It’s basically a showcase of some of the world’s top surfers as well as skaters, while there’s also bands and street artists. Sweet.

Times vary Nationwide lanewayfestival.com

Times vary Manly Beach, Sydney australianopenofsurfing.com

$130

Photos: Thinkstock

tourdownunder.com.au

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OZDIARY

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Catch Of Horses And Men at the Travelling Film Festival, Katherine

We hear these guys aren’t yet confirmed for Tequila Sunsets…

The Kiwis are also getting ready for their big celebrations, as Waitangi Day fast approaches

NORTH

WEST

SOUTH

PASSENGER FEB 5 / 8PM / $71 The English folk-rock singer, best known for his chart-topping hit “Let Her Go” is heading to the Top End to play one show.

THE KOOKS JAN 17 / 6.30PM / $69 The Brit-pop revivalists get their new Aussie tour going, no doubt with plenty of tracks from new album Listen. Support from the Griswolds.

JOHNNY MARR FEB 12/ 7.30PM / $71 The iconic British guitarist and singer-songwriter famed for his days in The Smiths makes his way Down Under on a solo tour.

The Playhouse

Belvoir Ampitheatre

The Gov

Darwin Entertainment Centre

Upper Swan, Perth

yourcentre.com.au

belvoir.net.au

thegov.com.au

TRAVELLING FILM FESTIVAL FEB 6-8 / $14 Three jam-packed days of movies representing the highlights of the Sydney Film Festival.

EDDIE IZZARD: FORCE MAJEURE FEB 4 & 5 / 8PM / $91 The absurd and surreal comedian heads to WA as part of his 25-country world tour.

ENGLAND VS INDIA JAN 23 / 2.20PM / $30+ The two nations come together as part of the ODI cricket Tri Series being played with Australia. The final is in Perth on February 1.

Katherine Cinema

Perth Convention & Exhibition Centre

Blundstone Arena

20 First Street, Katherine

21 Mounts Bay Road, Perth

sff.org.au/katherine

ticketek.com.au

ANGUS AND JULIA STONE FEB 7 / 7.30PM / $93 The sibling singers return to their home nation after a sold-out North American tour. The Playhouse Darwin Entertainment Centre yourcentre.com.au

59 Port Rd, Adelaide

Hobart

ROXETTE FEB 14 / 7.30PM / $104+ The legendary power-pop duo from Sweden are returning Down Under. Expect all the classics, like “Joyride” and “It Must Have Been Love”. Perth Arena 700 Wellington St, Perth

ticketmaster.com.au

CRICKET WORLD CUP FEB 14-MAR 29 / $20+ Australia is also playing host to the ICC Cricket World Cup this year, with Adelaide hosting several matches, the first being India vs Pakistan. Adelaide Oval War Memorial Drive, Adelaide

ticketek.com.au

icc-cricket.com

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EAST

NEW ZEALAND

TEQUILA SUNSETS JAN 8, 15, 22 & 29 / 5PM-9PM / $12 This event makes museums interesting. Enjoy after-hours viewing of 200 priceless artefacts borrowed from Mexican museums. Explore the exhibition until late, while enjoying Mexican food, drinks and even the occasional Mariachi band.

NELLY, LUPE FIASCO & B.O.B JAN 14 / 7PM / $89+ A triple-headed tour of hip-hop heavyweights, led by Nelly, making his first trip Down Under in four years.

WATCH THIS

Logan Campbell Centre Auckland, North Island

eventfinder.co.nz

Australian Museum 6 College Street, Sydney CBD australianmuseum.net.au

NAS JAN 20 / 7PM / $90 The New York rapper is on the road playing his debut album Illmatic – often considered one of hip-hop’s greatest – to celebrate the record’s twentieth anniversary. Tivoli Theatre

WORLD BUSKERS FESTIVAL JAN 15-25 / FREE+ Whether you’re into burlesque, magic, acrobats or comics, the world’s top performers are heading to Christchurch for Australasia’s biggest street festival. Many shows have a booking fee and ask for a donation (often around $15). Various Christchurch, South Island worldbuskersfestival.com

52 Costin St, Brisbane thetivoli.net.au

SUMMERSALT OUTDOOR ARTS FESTIVAL JAN 23-FEB 21 / FREE+ Art takes to the streets of Melbourne’s Southbank for five weekends in a row as part of this new festival. There will be interactive theatre, concerts, giant art installations and more to enjoy. Melbourne summersaltfestival.com.au

Eden Park Auckland, North Island

blackcaps.co.nz

MISTY MOUNTAIN HOP MUSIC FESTIVAL JAN 31 / $60+ A day/night festival 25 minutes from Wellington that brings together the decades, from rockers of the 60s to drum & bass.

STATE OF TRANCE FEB 6 & 7 / 10PM-6AM / $120+ Giant dance festival visiting two cities, bringing with it the likes of Armin van Buuren.

Camp Wanui

Hisense Arena & Sydney Olympic Park

WAITANGI DAY FEB 6 / FREE New Zealand’s national day and a public holiday. Northland’s Waitangi, where the 1840 treaty was signed, is the centre of the celebrations, but there will be festivals and BBQs all over.

Melbourne & Sydney astateoftrance.com

Photos: Tourism New Zealand, Tourism Victoria, supplied

BLACK CAPS VS SRI LANKA JAN 17 / 2PM / $40 NZ’s top cricketers take on the visitor as both sides prepare for the World Cup.

MELBOURNE VICTORY VS MELBOURNE CITY FEB 7 / 7.30PM / $33+ It’s one of the fixtures of the A-League season as the two Melbourne teams come head-to-head.

Lower Hutt, North Island eventfinder.co.nz

Nationwide Waitangi, North Island waitangi.org.nz

Etihad Stadium Docklands, Melbourne ticketmaster.com.au

ONE DIRECTION FEB 7 & 8 / 7PM / $101+ Love ‘em or hate ‘em, just be ready for the screaming as the boys kick off their Aussie tour. Allianz Stadium Sydney, NSW

MARLBOROUGH FOOD AND WINE FESTIVAL FEB 14 / 10.30AM / $48+ Offers the chance to sample tipples from 60 wineries. There are also food stalls, celebrity chef cooking demos and live music.

It’s the start of the tennis year and, besides the F1 Grand Prix, is probably just about the biggest international sporting event to take place each year Down Under. And Melbourne goes to town for the Open. The first of 2015’s four Grand Slam events, expect all the top players to be in attendance and raring to go. Andy Murray in particular will be arriving with high hopes – it’s consistently one of his best tournaments having been the losing finalist three times in the last five years. The tournament runs from January 19 to February 1, with each day split into day and night sessions, which often go on into the early hours. Ground tickets start at $29, while the show courts start at $60, with prices rising as the competition progresses. Alternatively, you can catch the action for free on the big screen in Federation Square. If you’ve bought tickets you can take the number 70 tram from the CBD to the action and back for free.

Brancott Vineyard Blenheim, South Island

ticketmaster.com.au

AUSTRALIAN OPEN TENNIS

Melbourne Park, Victoria

marlboroughwinefestival.co.nz

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OZEATS HEALTHY EATS

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THE BEST OF 2014’S FOOD AND DRINK...

Don’t ditch the diet when eating out...

YONG GREEN FOOD – MELBOURNE, VIC This Asian-inspired restaurant is devoted to serving the best wholesome, nourishing and organic food. Yong shows its customers that vegetarian and vegan cuisine doesn’t have to be boring as the menu is packed with fresh ingredients and bouncing with fantastic flavours. Yum. yonggreenfood.com.au

THE RAW KITCHEN – FREMANTLE, PERTH This restaurant brings together a plant-based menu, yoga and a studio space where their guests can ‘relax, explore and connect’. Serving an array of healthy vegan dishes, despite the name, you can order cooked food as well as raw. With such fresh ingredients, though, simple is best. therawkitchen.com.au

PAPER PLANES Contemporary Japanese, Bondi

Purple lighting, skateboards on the ceiling and Tokyo pop kitsch. It’s a little bit of downtown Street Fighter Tokyo on the sunny seaside of Bondi. THE GRUB Get the night started with some edamame with chilli salt ($6) and share a few lettuce cups loaded with roasted duck ($5/each). The stand-out dish has to be the pork belly buns ($6.50) and my hot tip for the next food craze – the humble bao. Cho Cho San may have made Japanese buns cool again, but you had it here first! Of course you can’t go wrong with sushi and the teriyaki chicken ($15) brings it home. If you really love it, grab some friends and share a skateboard-deck’s worth of sushi ($160/50 pieces). The gyoza pan-fried dumplings ($16) with creamy lemon wasabi foam and crushed wasabi peas are also winners in my book. If you’re not already swooning, try the Tokyo pot plant lemon cheesecake ($13), served in a terracotta pot. I love it when kitsch actually tastes delicious. BEHIND THE BAR Take your pick from dizzyingly sweet cocktails: Tokyo Pop ($16) with popping candy for that party-in-your-mouth sensation, or the Chee Chee Mule ($16), a cheeky lychee-based tipple. You can also get your sake matched with your food – just ask the friendly bar staff. Or simply down a few smooth Japanese beers. BILL PLEASE If you’ve got a group of people and you focus on the share plates, you’re looking at around $25 a head, excluding alcohol. VERDICT An experience, as well as a taste bud explosion, with the high notes of drunken karaoke. Alex Harmon THE SCENE

FIREFLY CAFÉ – TOOWOOMBA, QL If an all-vegetarian menu isn’t your thing try The Firefly Café (pictured), where the team strives to make every element of their dishes from scratch. A variety of veggie and non-veggie dishes are available, plus a number of breads made in their wood-fired oven. You are sure to find something you’ll love that’s good for you too. thefireflycafe.com.au

Shop 15, 178 Campbell Parade, Bondi Beach

paperplanesbondi.com

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THE EVERLEIGH Classy cocktails, Melbourne

One of the criticisms regularly levelled at the cocktail bar community is that it is prone to originality-sapping fads. So, it was with trepidation I read that The Everleigh on Gertrude Street, in Melbourne’s Fitzroy, is a Prohibition-themed speakeasy. Oh lore! Another? But originality really is the most overrated virtue, especially in the cocktail world. I don’t care how innovative your new cocktail ingredients are, the resulting concoction doesn’t taste better than a perfect Manhattan does it? And, let me be blunt: everything at The Everleigh is perfect. I could spends sentences effusing over the beautiful surrounds and flawless staff, but it’s the cocktails we need to get down to. BEHIND THE BAR I start with an Old Fashioned, which is comfortably the best I’ve had in this hemisphere. But it is my second drink that provides definitive evidence as to the special talent behind the bar. I ask the waiter for something bitter but fresh, and what arrives is a rye-whiskey masterpiece: it has levels of complexity I’m tempted to compare to a Marcel Proust sentence, but I won’t. THE GRUB If you asked for food here I imagine you’d be asked to leave. BILL PLEASE Cocktails from $20, Champagne from $15. VERDICT The best bar I’ve been to in Australia, so probably the best bar in Australia. Oli Jones THE SCENE

Level 1, 150-156 Gertrude Street, Fitzroy, 3065, Melbourne

3 OF THE BEST ROOFTOP BARS

theeverleigh.com

ROOFTOP BAR & CINEMA, MELBS

SWEETHEARTS, SYDNEY

DANDY’S @ FOX HOTEL, BRISBANE

If you fancy a chilled-out night where you can kick back and relax in a cool urban city setting, then this is the place for you. Grab a drink and a burger from the Burger Shack before settling in for the night to catch a movie under the stars.

The Sweethearts Rooftop Bar offers guests a sophisticated twist on the Aussie barbecue, come rain or shine. It’s a great spot to watch the (hopefully) beautiful sunset sinking behind the sparkling lights of Sydney.

With a bright and colourful design, you will feel as though you are enjoying a day on the beach at this rooftop space. It’s even better though, as you can tuck into mouth-watering food and sip on cocktails while you’re here. thefox.

rooftopcinema.com.au

sweetheartsrooftop.com.au

com.au/fox-dandys-rooftop

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AUSTRALIA DAYLISTINGS

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MIXED EMOTIONS It’s parties galore across Australia come Monday January 26 when the country celebrates its national holiday, commemorating the date when the first fleet of British ships arrived Down Under in 1788. But spare a thought for the people who already happened to be here when the boats turned up. Unsurprisingly, they’re less keen to celebrate the day. Most Aussies, nonetheless, will follow the time-honoured tradition of hitting the beach, kicking back on their Aussie flag towel and listening to the Triple J Hottest 100 on the radio. All while getting smashed, naturally.

SAT JAN 24 Sugar Mountain Festival $130+ Billed as Melbourne’s most progressive music and arts festival, Sugar Mountain takes over Southbank’s Victorian College of the Arts with five stages of acts. sugarmountainfestival.com

SUN JAN 25 Tailgate Sundays Free Mustang Bar, 46 Lake St, Northbridge, Perth. Celebrate Australia Day’s Eve with Ezra Lee, Johnny Law, DJ Holly Doll and DJ James Mac. 4pm-late. mustangbar.com.au

MON JAN 26 SYDNEY Ferrython Free Iconic Australia Day event when Sydney’s ferries race head-tohead from Circular Quay to Shark Island and back to the Sydney Harbour Bridge finish line. 11am. sydneyfestival.org.au More Boat Shenanigans Free It’s not just the ferries that have all the fun. Events on the water throughout the day include the Tug and Yacht Ballet, the Tall Ships Race and the Australia Day Regatta. It starts with the Wugulora Indigenous Ceremony by the Opera House at 7.30am. australiaday.com.au Harbourside Party & Fireworks Free One of the main Sydney celebrations is in Darling Harbour. There will be circus acts, roving

performers, music stages and then the official ceremony and fireworks display. Noon-9pm. darlingharbour.com

animals that call the College Street museum home, for half the usual price. 9.30am-5pm. australianmuseum.net.au

Australia Day Concert Free (advance ballot) Sydney Opera House forecourt. Day and evening shows. Acts include The Wiggles, Jessica Mauboy and Justice Crew. sydneyoperahouse.com.au

Great Australian Swim Final $50 Join the 1,000 people expected to swim the 2.2km route around Farm Cove, starting at the Sydney Opera House. You need to register online first. 8.30am-10.30am. greataustralianswimseries.com.au

Australia Day BBQ The Paragon, Circular Quay. hotelparagon.com.au CARnivale Free Macquarie Street and College Street. More than 700 classic cars, buses, trucks and fire engines line up. 9am-5pm. australiaday.com.au Vintage Bus Service Gold coin donation Get around the CBD, between Circular Quay and Central Station, onboard the fleet of special vintage buses. 10.30am-5pm. australiaday.com.au Australia Day in The Rocks Free Head to George Street, First Fleet Park and Atherden Street. You’ll find markets, two music stages and even part of George Street covered in AstroTurf to transform the CBD’s busiest thoroughfare into a games lawn. 10am-6pm. therocks.com Summer Playground Free Stacks of family-style entertainment and a public citizenship ceremony in Hyde Park. 9am-5pm. Noon will see the RAAF jets fly past. therocks.com Australian Museum $7.50 (half-price) Discover the dinosaurs and other

Red Berets Parachute Display Free See the soldiers fly into Circular Quay, complete with flares and a giant Aussie flag. 2pm. australiaday.com.au AFC Asian Cup Semi-Final $50+ It’s getting to the business end of Asia’s biggest international football tournament, being hosted by Australia throughout January. Kickoff is at 8pm at the 83,500-capacity Stadium Australia in Olympic Park. afcasiancup.com

VICTORIA Rainbow Serpent Festival $320+ This four-day psytrance festival in Lexton (starting on Friday 23 January) celebrates music and the arts with an eclectic mix of 100plus bands and DJs. rainbowserpent.net Australia Day Party Free Lucky Coq, 179 Chapel St, Windsor, Melbourne. luckycoq.com.au Australian Open Tennis $39+ It’s the start of the fourth round of the year’s first Grand Slam tennis event. Expect massive support for any Aussie survivors. ausopen.com

Australia Day Fireworks Free Details are yet to be announced but expect Melbourne’s main celebrations to go off with a bang from New Quay Promenade, by the Etihad Stadium. visitvictoria.com Federation Vehicle Display Free Kings Domain in Melbourne will be playing host to more than 450 veteran, vintage and classic vehicles throughout the day. australiaday.vic.gov.au

QUEENSLAND Long Weekender Free Brisbane’s South Bank Parklands will be taken over by music stages, culinary delights, market stalls and fireworks from Friday 23 to Monday 26 January. qld.australiaday.org.au Ultimate Party $35 Epic organised club crawl taking in five venues. Includes food, VIP entry and plenty of party games and entertainment. ultimatepartycairns.com Australia Day Celebrations Free Check out the Whitsunday Sailing Club in Airlie Beach for plenty of live music and all-round merriment. whitsundaysailingclub.com.au

CANBERRA Fireworks Spectacular Free Catch the main show from 9pm (but get there earlier). The fireworks go up over Lake Burley Griffin, with the best vantage points being Regatta Point, the lawns of the National Library and Rond Terrace. visitcanberra.com.au

Australia Day in the Park Free Head to Stage 88 in Commonwealth Park for music, rides, markets and plenty of entertainment. visitcanberra.com.au

SOUTH AUSTRALIA Australia Day in the City Free Join crowds of 40,000 in Adelaide’s Elder Park. It evolves from a giant street parade into a concert and then fireworks. qld.australiaday.org.au Tandanya Survival Day Free Australia Day isn’t celebrated by everyone. Many Aboriginal people see it more as Survival Day or Invasion Day. Head to Semaphore, in Adelaide, for this day of music, culture and protest. tandanya.com.au Tunarama Free One of the stranger ways to celebrate Australia’s national holiday. Head to the Port Lincoln foreshore, from Friday 23 to Monday 26 January for events that include the tuna toss. tunarama.net

WESTERN AUSTRALIA Celebration Zone Free Rides, music and entertainment at Sir James Mitchell Park, South Perth Foreshore. The fireworks start at 8pm. 2pm-9pm. southperth.wa.gov.au Indian Ocean Fireworks Free Head to Bathers Beach, Fremantle, for music and plenty more entertainment from 3pm. The fireworks get going at 8pm. fremantle.wa.gov.au

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

Photo: The Shed website

PARTY TIME

THE SHED This multi-award winning venue in the heart of Perth’s Premier Entertainment Precinct hosts live bands and DJs across its various areas: the live music arena, beer garden, veranda, sports bar and restaurant. There are also function rooms you can hire out for a special occassion. There are themed nights every weekend so be sure to check the website so you know how to rock it. 69-71 Aberdeen Street, Northbridge, WA the-shed.com.au

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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

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

NEWCASTLE Albion Hotel 72 Hannell St, Wickham thealbion.com.au Bar Petite 5 King St, CBD barpetite.com.au Burwood Inn Hotel 77 Berner Street, Merewether theburwood.com.au

Cambridge Hotel 789 Hunter St, CBD yourcambridge.com

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

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

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

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

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

Hamilton Station Hotel 2-6 Beaumont St, Islington hamiltonstation.com.au

Sunnyside Tavern 20 Broadmeadow Rd, Broadmeadow sunnysidetavern.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

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

BYRON BAY

Lass O’Gowrie 14 Railway St, Wickham lassogowriehotel.com.au

Beach Hotel Bay St beachhotel.com.au

Mary Ellen Hotel 57 Railway St, Mereweather maryellenhotel.com.au

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

Oriental Hotel 53 Bull St, Cooks Hill facebook.com/theorihotel

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

HOT STUFF

La La Land Level 1/6 Lawson St lalalandbyronbay.com.au The Northern 35-43 Jonson St thenorthern.com.au Treehouse on Belongil 25 Childe St treehouseonbelongil.com Woody’s Surf Shack 90-96 Jonson St woodysbyronbay.com

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

Photo: Facebook

CHERRY BAR

Take a bite of this sexy late-night rock and roll spot in Melbourne. With live music and rock and soul DJs until very late, its bar even became the stage for an impromptu grinding session from Lady Gaga when she decided to have an informal gig after-party wearing nothing but underwear and fishnets, as you do... 103 Flinders Lane, Melbourne cherrybar.com.au

@tnt_downunder Glasshouse Nightclub 90 Crown Street facebook.com/ sucasawollongong Grand Hotel 234 Keira Street wollongongnightlife.com.au Harp Hotel 124 Corrimal Street wollongongnightlife.com.au Ivory Nightclub 77 Crown Street wollongongnightlife.com.au OneFiveOne 150 Keira Street wollongongnightlife.com.au Questions Unit 5 123-125 Corrimal Street wollongongnightlife.com.au

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

PJ O’Reilly’s 52 Alinga St pjoreillys.com.au

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

Transit Bar 7 Akuna St transitbar.com.au

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

WOLLONGONG Alibi 76 Crown Street wollongongnightlife.com.au Castros 5 Victoria Street facebook.com/castros

The Rock Bar 78 Todd St therockbar.com.au Todd Tavern 1 Todd St toddtavern.com.au

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

CHRISTCHURCH

The Zookeeper’s Son 715 Mt Albert Rd zookeepersson.co.nz

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

Three Lamps 1-3 St Marys Rd, St Marys Bay threelamps.co.nz

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

4.20 bar 373 Karangahape Rd 420.co.nz

Becks Southern Alehouse 155 Colombo St beckssouthernalehouse.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

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

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

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

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

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

Hawthorn Lounge 82 Tory St, Te Aro hawthornlounge.co.nz J J Murphy & Co 119 Cuba St, Te Aro jjmurphy.co.nz Mac’s Brewbar 4 Taranaki St thebrewerybar.co.nz Matterhorn 106 Cuba St, Te Aro matterhorn.co.nz MIghty Mighty 104 Cuba St, Te Aro mightymighty.co.nz Molly Malones 134 Courtenay Pl, Te Aro mollymalones.co.nz San Francisco Bath House 171 Cuba St, Te Aro sfbh.co.nz Southern Cross Garden Bar 39 Abel Smith St, Te Aro thecross.co.nz Sprig & Fern 342 Tinakori Rd sprigandferntaverns.co.nz

Garden Hotel Bar 110 Marshland Rd, Shirley

gardenhotel.co.nz Pegasus Arms 14 Oxford Terrace pegasus-arms.com Tequila Mockingbird 98 Victoria St tequilamockingbird.co.nz The Brewery 3 Garlands Rd, Woolston casselsbrewery.co.nz The Twisted Hop Pub 616 Ferry Rd thetwistedhop.co.nz Monteiths Brewery Bar 53 Merrin St mbbmerrinst.co.nz No. 4 Bar 4 Mansfield Ave, St Albans no4bar.co.nz

HAMILTON Axces Bar 28 Alexandra St yellow.co.nz

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

WHANGAREI Dickens Inn 71 Cameron St, Vinetown dickensinn.co.nz Killer Prawn 26-28 Bank St killerprawn.co.nz McCool’s 14 Rust Ave mccools.co.nz pub McMorrisseys Irish Pub 7 Vine St, Vinetown mcmorrisseys.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

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

Bar 101 118 Victoria St bar101.co.nz

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

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

The Green Man 25 Victoria St thegreenmanpub.co.nz

CBD Corner Pub 26 Hood St cbdpub.co.nz

Lonestar Restaurant & Bar 60 The Esplanade, Inner Kaiti lonestar.co.nz

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

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

Soho 2 Crawford Rd, Inner Kaiti sohobar.co.nz

GISBORNE Aladdin Bar/First Light Aikido 63 Peel St firstlighttaikido.net

The Poverty Bay Club 57/65 Customhouse St thepovertybayclub.co.nz The Jolly Stockman 3 Saleyards Rd yellow.co.nz Verve Cafe & Bar 121 Gladstone Rd facebook.com

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

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

EDGE

Some people just aren’t cut out for the ordinary life. They like to ride the bumpy road at full speed, clinging on by their fingernails – even if their mode of transport is on fire... COMPILED BY CAROLINE GARNAR

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ONTHEEDGE

THE EIGHT-YEAR ROAD-TRIPPER “Maybe I have a different perception of what danger is” Sam Manicom has travelled for much of his life. He’s hitchhiked, travelled by bus, train, bicycle and sail. On his latest journey he set off as a novice motorcyclist, aiming to ride the length of Africa. This planned one-year journey turned into eight years and 200,000 miles around the world. “We all travel to have adventures, to learn and to find out more about ourselves don’t we?” says Sam when asked why he is drawn to potentially dangerous situations. “Something going wrong is a combination of all of those, and inevitably there’s a quirky or funny side to things. “Maybe I have a different perception of what danger is. It can be a buzz where every sense in your body is working on full power. Things taste sweeter, smell richer and it’s at times where risk is involved that you find out who you really are. “I’ve been lucky enough to learn that most fears are not based in reality. Many times I’ve been told such things as, ‘The villagers in the next place are all robbers; they will kill you.’ When I’ve ridden that route, I’ve found that the villagers were amazed that I’ve survived the place I’ve just come from. “Treat people and situations with due respect and, though things can go wrong, chances are you won’t die. The chances are far greater that you’ll have had a fascinating time.” Here, Sam shares some of his incredible stories from his eight years on the road...

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ONTHEEDGE

Not your typical roadside cafe

When he narrowly escaped a serious accident in the Outback... As I headed up Australia’s Pacific Highway, pale blue flashed in the left of my helmet visor, and then my bike and I were literally flying sideways through the air. A panel van pulling out of roadside bushes hadn’t seen me, and had hammered into me. Some 300 kilos of bike and luggage landed on top of me in the central reservation of the dual carriageway. My head was trapped right next to the fast lane and I was unable to move. I was stunned and in pain and petrol was spewing out of the bike onto my legs. Even with the slipstream of the speeding traffic by my head, I knew I’d been lucky. But would my luck last? If the first people to get to me were smoking then I’d be in real trouble. Thankfully the first people to arrive weren’t smoking – but they were three Australian Hell’s Angels. The first, a large man with heavily tattooed arms, looked as if he had just rolled off the set of a really bad Hollywood biker movie. He wore filthy jeans, a badged denim waist coat and a German army WWII helmet on his head. His wraparound shades were the darkest I’d ever seen and on his chin he had several days’ stubble, but I wasn’t afraid. How could I be when he had two cow’s horns sticking out from the sides of his helmet? His first words to me were pure Australian. “G’day mate. How’s it goin’?” Being a Brit, I of course replied, “Not too good, actually.” Within moments they’d lifted my bike off me and while they roared away in a triple Harley Davidson blast, I stood contemplating my lucky escape. I’d collected scratches on my bike gear and bruises on my body. My bike was another story…

When he fell critically ill in Thailand (and was rescued by a prostitute) I’d stopped for a while to enjoy exploring one of Thailand’s islands. My temporary home was a small bamboo cabin right 20

on the edge of a white sand beach. The sea was turquoise and the palm trees rustled their unique sound every time the breeze joined us. Life was pretty darned good. Then I fell ill. Within two days I was so weak that I couldn’t get out of bed and was so dehydrated that I was hardly sweating. A very pretty Thai girl was living in the cabin next to mine. She was from a poor mountain family, and had recently become a prostitute; working so she could earn the fees to continue her schooling. We’d sit on her veranda talking. I think that she enjoyed the conversations – in part because I didn’t want to take her to bed. We became friends and it was Kulap that noticed my bike outside my cabin, but no sign of me. She knocked on my door and called out but I was too weak to answer. She came into my cabin and saw the semi-conscious state I was in. Unbeknown to me I had a bad bout of Dengue fever. She knew exactly what it was and over the next week Kulap nursed me back to health. When I had the strength to make it to a doctor, he told me that she’d saved my life.

When he feared for his life (more than once)... I’ve been shot at a couple of times, had a 17-bone fracture accident in the Namib Desert, and my bike caught fire while I was riding it. The worst time was being jailed in Tanzania. I had an accident and was charged with speeding, driving without due care and attention, and attempt to commit grievous bodily harm. (I’d been travelling very slowly on the busy road into a small town; my senses were firing on all cylinders, and I definitely didn’t ride on purpose at the man who stepped out in front of me.) Being thrown into a jail cell with 20 men is the scariest moment of my life. And when I realised that rape was on one of the guy’s minds… Thankfully fate didn’t let this situation head any further in this direction. My first book, Into Africa, starts with this story.

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ONTHEEDGE The people he’s met... There were the orphaned children in Tanzania who set up their own business so they didn’t have to beg; the raggedy woman in the deserts of northern Kenya who insisted on sharing her food with me; there was the blond aboriginal man in the Australian Outback. We sat under the stars with him telling me about his family’s history and their lives today. Australian David, his Filipina wife Emmy and their sevenyear-old daughter Matea are strong candidates for the most interesting people I have met. This family had been travelling the world in their motorcycle side car rig for years. Matea had been born on the road, spoke a series of languages fluently and was as much at home playing with the local kids as she was holding a conversation with adults. This is a mere taste of Sam’s adventures. Indeed, he has written four books about his journey: Into Africa, Under Asian Skies, Distant Suns and Tortillas to Totems. You can buy them from Amazon and all good bookshops. sam-manicom.com. For tips on adventure and motorcycle travel from Sam, see tntmagazine.com/travel-tips-roundthe-world-biker-sam-manicom ››

GETTING SICK ABROAD This is one most of us can relate to. Whether it’s the flu or something more serious, getting sick in a strange country (and, let’s admit it, without your mum around to nurse you) is one of the worst things that can happen while travelling. Here, author, blogger, photographer and seasoned traveller, Macca Sherifi, shares his experience...

THAT TIME I GOT AMOEBIC DYSENTERY “I knew I shouldn’t have eaten the fish. It was stone cold, ever so slightly pink on the inside, and yep, you guessed it, it smelled like rotten fish. I knew it was going to make me ill as soon as I looked at it, but I hadn’t eaten a thing in about 12 hours and I was desperate. I had just arrived in Dhaka, the capital of Bangladesh, and it was an extremely long and tiring journey from the border of India. Whenever I arrive in a new city there are always two things on my mind: find accommodation first, and then find food. However, what I didn’t know was most hotels in Bangladesh don’t have permits to allow foreigners to stay there, so my first impressions of the city was being turned away from hotel after hotel (this is why it’s always a good idea to book your first nights’ accommodation in a new country). Anyway, after eventually finding a hotel to take me in (it involved a little incentive in the form of extra money), dinner was pushed back. This meant I was left over with the one thing no one else wanted – the rotten fish. The next day it hit me like an absolute steam train, and without going into the gory details I couldn’t keep anything down for about two weeks. The only thing my stomach could really handle was naan bread (I still maintain to this day that Bangladesh has the best naan bread in the world).

It was evident I wasn’t going to get better with time – this wasn’t one of those things that would just ‘go away’ – so I turned to my doctor; my dad. After explicitly explaining all my symptoms, he deduced I had amoebic dysentery, which meant I had to go on a course of strong amoebic ides to kill off all the amoebas. Now, buying drugs in India is an absolute dream. You can get most things – both prescription and nonprescription – over the counter, so picking up a course of amoebic ides wasn’t a problem. What was a problem was my dad neglected to tell me that a side effect was nausea, so I didn’t feel any better even after a few days of taking the drugs. By this point, the two guys who I was travelling with were pretty bored of waiting around, and after the arduous nature of Bangladesh, we decided to get ourselves to the beach in Goa. This involved a 45-hour 1,400km train journey across the country. With amoebic dysentery. In India. It’s safe to say it was an experience I don’t ever wish to repeat in my life. Once we arrived in Goa, the amoebic ides eventually kicked in and I started to regain some of my strength. After being on the lowest of lows, all of a sudden I had a surge of energy again, and I was soon on the highest of highs. Being sick with amoebic dysentery really made me appreciate the good times even more, and I had renewed purpose to enjoy my round-the-world-trip. Still, I wish I had gone to the hospital.” Having learnt his lesson the hard way, for Macca’s tips on keeping healthy while travelling, see tntmagazine.com/ how-to-stay-healthy-on-your-travels. Macca’s e-book, Your Round the World Trip Planner: How to Plan the Trip of a Lifetime, is available to download at amazon.com

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ONTHEEDGE rider to circumnavigate the continent on used cooking oil. So I wanted the record for being the fastest as well. Bio diesel as derived from used cooking oil, or any other waste oil, may not be sustainable at the pump, but it is viable for public transport, freight logistics, power generation and so much more. In order to get anywhere near the kind of power we needed, the first thing we did was look for a diesel engine that could work in a bike. We settled on 1.9 turbopower plant that came out of a car. By the time we had reached the speed testing stage the bike was four metres long, a metre wide and weighed half a ton. The next problem was finding a place long and flat enough to get it up to speed. We decided on a dry salt lake...

When he had to ride a four-metre long, one-metre wide bike across a dry salt lake... I thought with all that size and weight, running fast on a dry salt lake would be as easy as slipping into a warm bath full of cheerleaders, but I was very wrong. It was really difficult. There was a 20mph crosswind that literally shunted the bike all the way across the 10-metre-wide track no matter how hard and far I leaned over trying to correct my line. The salt was like a bizarre combination of hard sand and compressed snow; it cracks like crazy paving and after you pass the ‘Dirty Two’ 200mph it’s like flying over a giant belt sander.

When Mother Nature conspired against him....

Paul Carter

THE RECORD BREAKER “You only get one shot, so make it count”

When he was attacked by eagles...

Going 300kph on an untested, experimental motorcycle could be considered a perfect way to kill yourself. But for Paul Carter, attempting to be the fastest man on a biofuelled motorbike and break the land speed record is just something he has to do. And it’s a bumpy ride. During his mission, Paul’s father died, which only inspired him more: “The death of my father only solidified my determination not to sit back and get lazy. Life is all about living it, not just knocking your pan out, paying your taxes, entropy and eventual death. You only get one shot, so make it count,” says the UK-born Aussie-raised army brat-turnedoil rigger-turned-bestselling author. Plagued by cancellations, disastrous thunderstorms, lost keys and broken limbs following a few alcohol-fuelled benders, here he shares some of his close calls while trying to break the world record...

While I was testing out the bike, two eagles decided that would be a great time to fly at head height across the track and they nearly knocked me off – it was close.

When he decided, “I know, I want to break the land speed record for a biodiesel-powered bike”... My last book was all about riding a biodiesel motorcycle around Australia , and I was given the Aussie Record for being the first 22

So much planning, logistics, time and money was wasted twice over. We were ready to race, we had done all the testing, ironed out all the quirks in months of shakedown runs and the whole event had to be cancelled because Mother Nature decided to turn the dry salt lake back into a wet lake the day before kick off. I was like a coiled spring; I had to learn the art of patience.

When he broke his back – in the queue for the record attempt.... My bike fell on me while I was standing next to it, waiting to attempt the world record. That’s half a ton. It broke my back and it took me ages to recover. I’m all good now. Got my core strength back, no invasive surgery, just lots of pilates. Imagine me and several heavily pregnant ladies contacting various parts of our bodies for half an hour.

When he discovered the wonders of riding through Tasmania... You can depart from the east coast of Tasmania and ride all the way to the west coast in a day. You will in one day experience balmy sun and blizzards, and then almost rainforest levels of humidity. There are spectacular vistas and stellar riding conditions: especially the switchback hairpins, of which there are hundreds, snaking up one side and down

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ONTHEEDGE the other of yet another jaw-dropping mountain in to rolling open fields with slow, sweeping turns that skirt the ocean. Every place offers wonderful food and warm hospitality.

When he starred in the adventure series ‘Life on the Edge’... Probably the craziest situation I found myself in was when I was in a ‘tinny’, or very small aluminium boat, with a camera man, sound recordist and director, two miles off a very remote part of the Australian coast with a dead outboard, no floatation devices of any kind and a monster wave about to swamp us. Oh yes, and all this is playing out in the middle of a place called ‘Shark Bay’.

What he’s learnt... Don’t take anything for granted, nothing lasts forever. Family is more important than anything so cherish it, and try to avoid the clap.

Paul’s book following his world record attempt, Ride Like Hell And You’ll Get There, is available now on amazon.com pcarter.com.au

Intrepid journalist Murray Silby

THE WAR ZONE TOURIST “I was able to leave, but many people that are caught up in it cannot escape” Murray Silby is a freelance journalist and blogger. He took an intrepid trip to Israel in the summer of 2014, despite it being embroiled in turmoil. He claims not to be an ‘Indiana Jones’ traveller of conflict zones, but admits, “Fortunately most of the chances I’ve taken have turned out really well. Such occasions could easily go the other way, but taking chances often brings great experiences too.” Despite being warned not to go to Israel at that time, after further research and a long search to find a travel insurance company that would cover any incident arising from the conflict, Murray decided to take his chances and ‘holiday in a war zone’.

When he decided to visit Israel at a time of conflict... My trip to Israel was a chance to see the country and the occupied West Bank in a period of duress and to try to understand it better. I’ve grown up watching the Middle East conflict on the news many nights of my life and now, as a journalist, this holiday gave me the opportunity, under relatively safe circumstances, to experience it. I’m mindful that I was able to leave, but many people that are caught up in it cannot escape. That’s the tricky part. Going to a place to understand it, learn from it and engage with its people, but without treating it like a zoo… ensuring that it’s not something to wonder at and then move on leaving the exhibition behind. Every traveller must decide what they do with the knowledge, insights and experiences they’ve gained, knowing at the same time the people who have hosted them stay behind and could face a tough and uncertain reality.

Prayer time in Israel You have been warned

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ONTHEEDGE

When there were people being killed less than 60km away... Everyday life seemed to be progressing as normal, despite people being killed in their hundreds little more than 60km away from Jerusalem where I spent most of my time. It struck me as a little bit weird that life in Jerusalem and Tel Aviv seemed to be ticking along, seemingly normally. This could be interpreted, I guess, as stoic people determined not to have their lives disrupted by the conflict; people so used to these circumstances that they are capable of living life relatively unchanged, but still affected by it; or people who were mostly unaffected by the killing of hundreds of people nearby, whether they believed that it was justified or not. Most likely it’s a little bit of everything. More signs of a response from the people came later in my stay as an increasing number of Israeli soldiers were killed. Then people were more vocal about the support for the defence forces. The Palestinian shopkeepers in East Jerusalem would happily tell you of their anguish at the events in Gaza if you stopped to have a conversation with them. 24

When there were nearby explosions... I was delayed for two days in Tel Aviv after rockets started landing near the airport and flights were cancelled. Also, while I was stranded in Tel Aviv, the streets emptied when an air siren sounded. A few seconds later there were a couple of explosions in the sky above. I’m told that was the Iron Dome “taking care” of a rocket.

When he spoke to tour operators about how the conflict affected them... Apart from one tour I took where it was their policy to discuss the history of conflict in the Middle East and Israel in particular, there seemed almost a determination not to speak about it unless asked about the conflict. Some reacted cautiously, unsure of your stance, while others openly gave their opinion. Those were the people who were usually strongly in favour of the Israeli operation. You can read Murray’s blog at themouflonproject. wordpress.com where he shares his entertaining journey and everyday trials of adjusting from life as an independent journalist living in Melbourne to being a house-husband and father in Cyprus.

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CHATROOM

Oli Broom

This English travel writing cricket fanatic jacked in his job and jumped on his bike, cycling solo for 25,000km, crossing 19 countries in 14 months, to catch the Ashes in Australia. Now that’s dedication to the sport. INTERVIEW ANDREW WESTBROOK What made you want to do it? I’d built a career I thought was okay, but I didn’t love it, plus I’d always wanted to travel a long way by bicycle and I’d always wanted to watch the Ashes. I decided to do both at the same time. Why cycle? For the challenge and the adventure. But very quickly I realised it wasn’t the challenge I enjoyed, it was the proximity to people. The bicycle is wonderful for that, particularly in places where being on one means you’re more like a local. In Sudan, Syria, Turkey even, you’re vulnerable on a bicycle. I don’t mean you’re likely to get robbed. I just mean you’re open to the elements so the potential to engage with those you meet is so much greater. What did your family think of it? I told my parents of the plan via email, because I thought I could express my reasoning better. I got a call five minutes after sending it – mum, in floods of tears. She was worried I was making a big mistake. Three days later she was making calls to potential sponsors, researching what jabs and visas I’d need. It’s a mother’s prerogative to worry and I think her initial reaction was perfectly natural. She and my dad have been very supportive ever since. My friends just rolled their eyes. I’d had similarly grand plans before. Did you ever almost give up? No. The closest was probably when I had dengue fever in Thailand. But really, I was never going to give up. I did catch a couple of planes because my route was a bit of a funny one, but I still cycled about 25,000 kilometres.

Where was the best place to wake up? The Nubian Desert in Sudan wasn’t bad but I’ll

Did you get lonely at all? Yes, occasionally. But if I went on a similar trip again I’d still go alone. There is no choice but to make friends with strangers, eat with them, learn from them. I found that whenever I was joined on the road by a friend, the experience was often more fun but never as satisfying. Where are you keenest to revisit? Turkey, Sudan, India and Australia. The people were incredible in all those countries. My dream

trip is an outback road trip with my wife. She’s not convinced, mainly because of the spiders. How did you feel when you made it? Relieved (because I nearly got run over coming into Brisbane), tired (because my mileage for the last few weeks was much more than during the previous 13 months as I was worried about missing the start of the Ashes), emotional (as my parents, my first ever cricket coach and various other friends were waiting when I arrived), grateful (that I’d been shown so much kindness) and wet (it rained for the last 24 hours of my journey – an English welcome!). And finally, did the England team’s Ashes performance do you proud? Yes! England have been rubbish for the past few years but in 2011 they were magnificent. TNTDOWNUNDER.COM

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Photo: Supplied

What was the scariest moment? Leaving home. I honestly wasn’t truly scared at any point, except for the two days it took me to get to Dover. After my first day I was exhausted, my knee was sore and I simply couldn’t comprehend what I was setting off to do. Things improved when I realised I wasn’t setting off to break any records.

go for the roof of a half-built (and abandoned) house on the banks of the River Jordan. It was silent, cool, exotic and I couldn’t believe that behind the mountains in my view were Jerusalem, Jericho and Lake Galilee. I felt very small and inconsequential.

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Top events for 2015 Got a diary for Christmas? Tell whoever bought it for you that it’s 2015 and you already have one on your phone, then put this lot in it... WORDS RORY PLATT

AFC Asian Cup Australia 2015 JANUARY 9-31 Football has begun to steadily take a hold of Australia. Mind you it’s a long way off the tribal status in which it is revered in the UK, but baby steps are in progress. Kicking off the year with some real whizz-bang, the AFC Asian Cup hits Aussie shores for the first time ever. Matches will be held across the east coast cities: Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Canberra and Newcastle. Tickets for the matches range from $49.96 to $151.91 for games where Australia is playing, and $15.29 to $30.59 for any other teams. See page 30 for our lowdown on the teams. afcasiancup.com 30th Anniversary of Surfest FEBRUARY 1-22 Surfing is an Australian pastime, none can deny that, and this year we’ll see the 30th anniversary of Newcastle-based company Surfest celebrating in style. Across NSW in February there will be stacks of surf competitions – everything from grommet comps to Indigenous pro surf championships. Longboards, shortboards, you name it, you’ll find an event near you with just the kind of surfing you like. If you want a tasty recommendation from us, make sure you check out the Lake Macquarie Long Board Classic at Redhead Beach. It’s held on the 14 and 15 of February, with all your ‘walk the plank’ and ‘hang ten’ goodness in tow. Prices vary. See website for schedule. surfest.com Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras FEBRUARY 15-MARCH 8 There are a few places in the world where Mardis Gras envelops everything in its path, and Sydney is just one such 26

MARDI GRAS place that goes off the chain. Despite being a celebration traditionally for the LGBT community and supporters, everyone in Sydney seems to get involved at Mardis Gras – no matter their sexual orientation. For almost a month, the streets of Sydney swell with gay pride through rainbow flags and various events, and it all climaxes, if you will, in a huge parade on March 7. Groups come from all over the world to join in the big celebration, so needless to say it is a must-see event. Watching the parade is free, but there are also many parties calling your name. mardigras.org.au Melbourne Food & Wine Festival FEBRUARY 27-MARCH 15 Already a foodie capital, Melbourne sure knows how to put on a food and wine festival in style. It doesn’t matter whether you’re into eating, drinking or learning about

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culinary delights – there are a host of events that will tickle your fancy. From wine tasting experiences to cooking classes, many events are free so everything tastes even better! A highly recommended (and free) experience is the ‘open kitchen’ alongside the Yarra River. Wander the banks and get your nose into the pop-up kitchens and bars, food trucks and cooking demonstrations. You’ll be sure to leave with a full tum. melbournefoodandwine.com.au Formula 1 Australian Grand Prix MARCH 12-15 Any motorhead with a penchant for the most ridiculously fast car race in the world (that’s all of them then) will be marking this date in their calendar with red pen. It’s been two decades since the first Australian Grand Prix was held at Albert Park in Melbourne, and there are plenty of on- and off-track events to mark the occasion: from historic demonstrations of the Formula 1 of bygone days to V8 and Porsche races – not to mention the eye-opening speed comparison event. Single day passes vary from $39-$79 (depending on the day), or a four-day pass is $149. grandprix.com.au OzAsia Festival, Adelaide SEPTEMBER 23-OCTOBER 4 The biggest celebration of Australia’s multiculturalism is held in the Adelaide Festival Centre, and this time around it will have a cultural focus on Indonesia. It’s a festival with all the bells and whistles, like contemporary theatre, dance, food and more. The pinnacle of the OzAsia Festival will come on September 27 at the Moon Lantern Festival; a magical event with glowing creatures great and small. The full programme won’t be released until July, but until then you can head to the website to see what happened in previous years. adelaidefestivalcentre.com.au/ozasia-festival Floriade, Canberra SEPTEMBER 12-OCTOBER 11 Head to our nation’s capital and herald the arrival of spring with masses upon masses of flowers. Indeed, it’s how you know that spring has sprung as flowers bloom, birds sing and the sun (usually) shines. For close to 30 years Canberra has been celebrating the change of season. Across 30 days, Commonwealth Park becomes a floral wonderland, attracting visitors from all over the world. If you were looking for an excuse to visit Canberra, then Floriade is the festival worth going for floriadeaustralia.com What else you should look out for... Sydney Festival, Jan 8-26 (sydneyfestival.org.au) Enlighten Canberra, Feb 27-Mar 7 (enlightencanberra.com.au) ICC Cricket World Cup 2015, Feb 27-Mar 26 (icc-cricket.com) Bluesfest – Byron Bay, Apr 2-6 (bluesfest.com.au) Vivid Sydney, May 22-June 8 (vividsydney.com) TNTDOWNUNDER.COM

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SPORTFOCUS

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Words: Michael Gadd. Photos: Getty

Tadanari Lee scored in extra time to win Japan the 2011 Asian Cup final against Australia

Asian invasion Australia was the sole bidder for the 2015 AFC Asian Cup before it was awarded in 2011, but they’ll have competition when it begins on January 9 with all teams hoping to be there come the final on January 31. From 44 nations, 16 teams qualify, Australia automatically as hosts and Japan as winners last time around with a heart-breaking extra-time winner in Qatar against the hosts this time around. With the Socceroos already in, third-placed South Korea get the free ride in reserved for the runner-up, and round out the top three favourites for the tournament. Somehow, the South Koreans are also in the Aussies’ group A. Showing up the FIFA world rankings system’s stupidity, Australia, second favourites for the tournament, is third ranked in its group behind The Reds and Oman. Ange Postecoglou’s barometer of where his side is at could have been the November friendly against Asia’s best side, Japan, which they lost 2-1. The Blue Samurai won the last Asian Cup final over the ‘Roos in extra time. And in Australia’s debut in the tournament in

Australia hosts the Asian Cup this month and is expected to give it a shake. How are they shaping up and who stands in their way?

2007 they lost to the same side in the quarter finals – it was the first time Mark Schwarzer had lost in a penalty shoot-out. The Aussie coach’s main problem is his biggest threat remains beyond his prime, former Everton man Tim Cahill, who has had to bail his side out too many times. Nevertheless, the hosts are well fancied to produce something, and captain Mile Jedinak won’t want to be deserting his relegation-battling Crystal Palace for a damp squib. Here’s what lies ahead and what you need to know about Australia’s group opponents.

AUSTRALIA’S GROUP A SOUTH KOREA Their story: Having qualified for every World Cup since 1986, they’re a force. In Australia, the inaugural winners in 1956 equal the record 13th appearance at the Asian Cup, but it’s amazingly been 54 years since they’ve won it and they’re chasing a third. German Uli Stielke takes over from Korean legend Hong Myungbo after a poor Brazil World Cup which yielded only a draw.

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Watch out for: Swansea City’s Ki Sung-yueng is their biggest name, but it could be time for Ulsan Hyundai striker Kim ShinWook to find form for his country. Fun fact: All-time leading goal scorer’s name is Cha Bum-kun (great player for Eintracht Frankfurt and Bayer Leverkusen, awesome name). OMAN Their story: They’ve come a long way since being Gulf football’s whipping boys. Socceroos won’t forget that Oman gave their World Cup qualification hopes a massive scare in Sydney. Indeed, it took a Tim Cahill header and a Brett Holman screamer to save a 2-2 draw. Watch out for: Captain and keeper Ali Al-Habsi (Wigan, on loan at Brighton) is their only overseas player. Greatest asset is savvy manager Paul Le Guen, the French former PSG player and manager who led Cameroon before moving to The Red Warriors. Fun fact: Oman (which included bits of now UAE) were beaten 21-0 by Libya in 1966. KUWAIT Their story: The lowest-ranked team in the group but a pain in the host’s proverbial. Kuwait’s been a guaranteed tight one through their history against each other and are the Aussies’ bogey team with two wins and a draw in their last three meetings. They were smashed by Oman 5-0 in the Gulf Cup of Nations, and won this tournament back in 1980. Watch out for: Bader Al Mutawa is just 29 but by far their most experienced player with 141 caps and 46 goals. Fun fact: After qualifying for 1982 World Cup, their only one to date, they got a goal disallowed against France by walking off the pitch.

GROUP B

GROUP C

GROUP D

Uzbekistan Saudi Arabia China North Korea

Iran UAE Qatar Bahrain

Japan Jordan Iraq Palestine

SOCCEROOS FIXTURES January 9: Australia v Kuwait, Melbourne Jan 10: South Korea v Oman, Canberra Jan 13: Kuwait v South Korea, Canberra, Oman v Australia, Sydney Jan 17: Australia v South Korea, Brisbane Oman v Kuwait, Newcastle KNOCKOUT STAGE Quarters Jan 22/23 Semis Jan 26/27 FINAL Jan 31

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WIN

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WIN A HOP-ON-HOP-OFF ADVENTURE

ACROSS WESTERN AUSTRALIA TNT Downunder is offering one lucky winner the chance to win a Hop-OnHop-Off Pass across Western Australia with Integrity Coach Lines. Travel between Perth and Broome and stop at some of the best destinations in Oz including Exmouth, Coral Bay, Monkey Mia and Karijini National Park. There are no limits to the amount of stops you make and the pass is valid for 12 months so you can take your time and enjoy everything the West Coast has to offer. (T&C: Pass is valid for travel in one direction only and it is non-transferable.) Enter at tntdownunder.com/deals-andcompetitions/competitions/ integritycoachlines.com.au/BlogSpecials/Special-offers

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TRAVEL NEWS | TOP 5 | OZ TRIP | TOP 10 | LISTINGS

MARCH OF THE PENGUINS / 38 Admittedly, our feature on Victoria is more about the lesser-known activities of the state, as opposed to those such as seeing the Penguin Parade on Phillip Island. But we just couldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t resist giving you a big pic of these little fellas who, even though they are part of the tourist trail, are totally worth joining the crowds for. Cuteness!

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TRAVELBITES Air New Zealand to fly direct to Argentina

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AUSTRALIA LEADING THE WAY ON INSTAGRAM Tourism Australia is smashing the competition when it comes to Instagram followers, having just hit that magic million mark!

Starting December 2015, Air New Zealand will fly directly between Auckland and Buenos Aires about three times a week. This will be the first time the airline has touched down in South America. “South America was once the domain of the intrepid explorer, but the direct service to Buenos Aires, with a flight time of around 12 hours, means a quick and action-packed getaway is now a reality,” says Air New Zealand chief executive officer, Christopher Luxon. “Buenos Aires is the most popular tourist city in South America and is a perfect stepping stone for those who then want to explore the country, or continent, further.” Air New Zealand will be code-sharing the route with Aerolíneas Argentinas, subject to obtaining regulatory approvals. Flights for the new route will go on sale from March 2015. So, bags packed? Ready to fly? South America, here we come!

If you aren’t already, go follow @Australia on Instagram. It’ll pad out the space between posts of selfies and someone’s breakfast (you’ll thank us for that alone), and give you the best photos being snapped across Oz. Compare their achievement to the competition and things get much more impressive. Canadian Tourism Commission has 131 thousand followers, Tourism New Zealand has 30 thousand and VisitBritain with a mere 11 thousand. Crikey, the

Aussies blew them out of the water. It’s not surprising, though, when you consider the sensational natural beauty of this country. Seems like the rest of the world just can’t get enough of our kangaroos either. “Our followers are posting these images because they have a genuine desire to share their many personal and positive Australian holiday experiences and, by doing so, play a part in promoting a country they love,” Tourism Australia managing director, John O’Sullivan says.

Not just that, but research from Tourism Australia suggests that the Instagram account is actually going the distance in tempting overseas visitors to our sunny shores. Of 1,300 overseas Instagram followers surveyed, around 91% said the @Australia account led them to find out more about Australia as a holiday destination, 87% said the account made them more likely to travel to Australia and 43% were currently planning a trip to visit here. Pretty sweet, ey? That’ll show ’em who’s boss!

Photos: supplied, iStock. Words: Rory Platt

Planning flights to South America is usually a huge ball ache, but no more, thanks to Air New Zealand...

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Wellington, now ‘the coolest little city’ As if New Zealand didn’t already have enough titles under its belt, the Kiwis have only gone and muscled their way into the top 10 cities list. Rough Guides declared Wellington among the Top 10 Cities to Visit in 2015, calling the city ‘the urban jewel in the country’s otherwise bucolic crown.’ “There’s a real buzz about the city’s café scene and smart new craft-beer bars are bubbling up across the city,” the write up says about Wellington’s sixth placing on the list. “Built on the edge of a wide harbour and steep surrounding hills, visitors don’t need to travel far from the centre of the city to experience the best of Wellington – with world-class museums and art galleries, nature and wildlife, scrumptious dining and award-winning coffee and cafes right on the doorstep.” Positively Wellington Tourism (PWT) chief executive David Perks beams, “It’s great news to receive. Rough Guides are known for their ‘tell it like it is’ attitude,

so we’re very pleased that from among hundreds of city destinations they’ve rated Wellington so highly.” “With a fantastic events line-up, 2015 is a great time to visit Wellington, and Rough Guides’ recommendation is bound to have more international travellers looking our way,” he adds.

This year alone Wellington has been dubbed ‘Coolest Little City in the World’ by Vogue and was listed on CNN.com’s ‘8 Great Coffee Cities.’ Plus of course, most importantly, TNT loves it too! Have you visited Wellington yet? Better get in quick, before it becomes too mainstream!

Gandalf pushes for Middle-earth theme park As if Hobbiton wasn’t enough, Ian McKellan has given Peter Jackson a prod to create a Middle-earth theme park.

Could we soon be horsing around in a Hobbit theme park?

After the huge success that the Tolkien screen adaptations have had on New Zealand’s tourism industry, it makes sense to immortalise the experience to secure tourists for decades to come… Right? Most of the cast seem to think so, and the idea has us all squirmy with excitement. “Of course the next development I hope is that Peter’s going to devise, not more films, but a situation that you can all go to that is as much theatrical as cinematic,” McKellen told reporters in London. “A living museum where you will actually have the experience – as you sometimes do in the greatest exhibitions of that sort in Hollywood – to go into that and be there.”

Peter Jackson insisted that a holiday was in order before any further projects ensued. The new Hobbit film marks the end of Jackson’s creative endeavours in Middle-earth – cinematically at least. “They come to Hobbiton in their droves so I’m sure there are enough fans of the films that would come to see a Hobbit theme park or a Lord of the Rings theme park,” Martin Freeman, AKA Bilbo Baggins, said. “I loved New Zealand and I loved working and living there. Some of the most beautiful places I’ve ever seen were there.” We think it’s a great idea and if it happens we will be the first in line at Gandalf’s Gondolas, or something hopefully better than that...

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TOPFIVE

Words: Alex Harmon. Photos: Alex Harmon and iStock

FRASER ISLAND

“If you see a dingo, whatever you do, don’t feed them or try to pat them,” says the cab driver in Hervey Bay. “They are wild dogs and they will bite.” We’re making our way to the ferry where we will set sail for Fraser Island, the world’s largest sand island and one of the shining stars on the UNESCO’s World Heritage List. It’s an ominous start to the trip, and one that is synonymous with Fraser Island, with tales told by all whom have ventured there. However, my trepidation is completely washed away once we arrive and take a pew by the pool at the Kingfisher Bay Resort. Turns out the traditional owners of the land, the Butchulla people, called the island ‘K’gari’ meaning ‘paradise’. I couldn’t agree more. But, I’m not here to spend my whole time lounging around (unfortunately), and so instead, I try out Fraser Island’s top five activities...

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TAKING A DIP Eli Creek is freshwater creek that juts out into the ocean. Equipped with some rubber tubes we make our way upstream and dip into the chilly water where we peacefully float down towards groups of people setting up lunch, drinking beers and blaring music from their 4WDs. It feels like the Australian version of Spring Break. Before we get lured in by a wet T-shirt competition, we head off north of Indian Head lookout in search of a more natural Girls Gone Wild experience – the champagne pools. These rock pools are perched by the ocean, and as the waves crash over the rocks a foamy layer of water glazes over the pools. It’s like a natural Jacuzzi, and possibly the most perfect way to spend an afternoon. Combine the Top 5 (apart from the sunset Segway tour) by joining the Cool Dingo Tour cooldingotour.com

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TOPFIVE

AUSSIE SHORT BREAKS

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TAKE TO THE SKIES

CENTRAL STATION

Like most impressive sights, Fraser Island is even more astounding when seen from the air. Six of us are welcomed on board by Air Fraser for a 15-minute joy ride over the island, and up here I am amazed by its sheer size. It’s completely massive, with so many different eco-systems to take in at once, from the broccoli-looking rainforest to the epic sand dunes and the chilling ocean which gives us a rare opportunity to spot stingrays. This is topped off by seeing a double rainbow in the distance. We are all amazed upon landing, our smiles and stories lasting all day long.

Nope, we’re not catching a train out of here; we’re going to explore the rainforest and the remains of an old rail system used by the logging industry. Fraser Island is the only known place to have a rainforest growing out of sand dunes. And what an impressive forestry it is. We see ancient trees that are 40m high, we see rough barked satinay and palms and – oh my god – someone has just spotted a dingo. We all race towards it, cameras in hand, but it’s too late. The dingo has scuttled off into the forest. Instead we have a sip from the so-freshit’s-drinkable water of Wanggoolba Creek and wrap our arms (unsuccessfully) around the gigantic trees.

airfraserisland.com.au

LAKE MACKENZIE

SUNSET SEGWAY TOUR

The stunning Lake Mackenzie is definitely one of Fraser’s crowning jewels. The freshwater lake is postcard perfect with white sandy shores and crystal clear blue waters. We relax by the water’s edge and, even though it’s probably the most visited spot on the island, it’s strangely quiet – but then I am used to Bondi Beach on a summer’s day. The water is crisp and clean, with the advantage of only containing rain water. The sun is out, people are happy and there are children playing with colourful beach balls. If there wasn’t so much skin on show I would think I had been transported back into the glory days of yesteryear.

Once the means of transportation of Chicago police officers and ‘hip’ office workers, Segways have been welcomed onto Fraser Island. Kingfisher Bay Resort has its own spin on the two-wheeled electric vehicles, by letting guests scoot around on the sandy shores. We get given a quick run-down before we’re let loose on the beach. Being my first time, the speeds of 11km/hr feel like lightning speed and I let off a girlish scream as I roll over the wet sand, trying to avoid the natural pot holes made by crabs. It’s a lot of fun and once I have the knack we set off around the island as the sun goes down creating a gorgeous pink sunset. kingfisherbay.com

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Secrets The Great Ocean Road is indeed great, and the penguins of Phillip Island are indeed penguiny (and very cute), but we’re here to tell you the top 30 must-dos you may not have heard about... 38

Ah, Victoria. You little beauty. Small but oh-so-perfectly formed, you’re like a strange grommet of a gremlin – beautiful and playful to start with, but wild, exciting and downright crazy within the blink of an eye. Nowhere else Down Under crams so much into a space so small (small by Aussie standards at least – it’s still about half the size of Spain). Yes, there’s the Great Ocean Road, and yes, there’s Phillip Island’s penguins, but there’s plenty going on behind the headlines. For starters, when it comes to Melbourne, believe the hype, if not the tired clichés (it’s Australia’s most European city, don’t you know. Yawn).

If you want Australia’s best nightlife, most trend-setting shopping and coolest cultural scene, look no further than the Victorian capital. No discussion. This is a place so cool that parts of the city are named after Batman (John, one of its founders, that is). Heard the one about how it always rains in Melbourne (probably from a Sydneysider)? Well, chuck this nugget back at them – Melbourne actually gets far less annual rainfall than Sidders. Indeed, even Manchester does. The reality, though you’ll never hear this uttered out loud, is that most Sydneysiders would happily switch the Harbour City for Melbourne, if only they could live without posing on

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TAKE A WALK AT WILSON’S PROM Walking tracks, abundant wildlife and stunning beaches – it’s not hard to see why the “Prom” is one of the most popular national parks in the country.

Relive the days of Australia’s favourite “crim”, Ned Kelly, around Glenrowan. Visit the gloriously over-the-top Kellyland, or put a bucket on your head and recreate the famous final shoot-out.

LET THEM EAT CAKE

EVERYBODY LOVES ’EM…

A walk along St Kilda’s Acland St is torture for a dieter. There’s a seemingly never-ending stream of bakers and patisseries. Naughty but very nice.

Melbourne has many claims to fame, but one of the biggest is that it’s home to Neighbours. Take a tour to Pin Oak Court, aka Ramsay Street and/or meet Dr Karl at a Neighbours night quiz at the Elephant & Wheelbarrow in St Kilda.

STEAM ACROSS THE MURRAY The Mississippi of the Antipodes, the Murray River winds majestically through NSW, Victoria and South Australia, and there’s no better way to see it than from a paddle steamer.

WORSHIP AT CHAPEL STREET

The Twelve Apostles

Sydney might be bigger, but when it comes to shopping, Melbourne is queen. There are more young and upcoming designers here then you can poke a needle at. Head to Chapel St and give your credit card the shock of its life.

HEAR THE BELLS RING the beach. Instead they make do with endless shopping/ drinking/football weekends away. Biased? Maybe. But if, for example, you like your sport, there’s no alternative. Tennis, Aussie Rules, the MCG, Formula 1, horse racing, the Boxing Day Test, MotoGP – the big events all go down south of the border. And that doesn’t mean it’s just a coffee-drinking, Neighbours-watching, black clothes-wearing, footy-screaming, credit card-battering whirlwind. Not all the time at least. Head to the surf coast to pick up cheap gear at the hometown of labels like Rip Curl and Quiksilver while admiring beaches so bad-ass that Swayze had to pretend he was there in Point Break. Stretch your muscles with endless climbing, hiking and general escaping-the-world activities in ace national parks like the Grampians, Dandenongs and Mornington Peninsula. Then stop, catch your breath and move on to the next of these 30 must-dos...

GIVE NED A NOD

One of the best surfing beaches on the Victorian coast, Bells Beach was famously named but not used in Point Break. Only for the experienced.

CHEER ALONG TO AUSSIE RULES Australian Rules footy is a religion in Melbourne and, most weekends, worshippers go to the MCG church. Go along for the atmosphere and the quintessential Victoria experience. Meat pies compulsory.

WITNESS THE TWELVE APOSTLES One of Victoria’s most famous sights, these rocks jut dramatically out of the ocean. It’s been scientifically proven it’s impossible to take a bad photo of them. Fact(ish).

GO BUSHWALKING The Dandenong Ranges are only 35km east of Melbourne and its national parks, ferns and exotic trees make for a great bush-walking escape.

GET SHIPWRECKED This infamous stretch of rock called Cape Otway isn’t known as the Shipwreck Coast for nothing. For the best views, head to the lighthouse.

FITZROY BAR CRAWL Seek out Melbourne’s alternative crowd with a bar-hop around the lively, cosmopolitan suburb of Fitzroy. Brunswick and Smith Streets are the places to go.

GRAMPIANS, WE LOVE YOU For a taste of the Victorian wilderness, head to the TNTDOWNUNDER.COM

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OZTRIP smile bigger than the one on the giant freaky-looking face.

GET GIGGLING Every autumn, laughter comes to Melbourne in the form of one of the world’s biggest comedy festivals. Comedians from all over tickle your funny bone.

DRINK UP AT YARRA VALLEY Conveniently just an hour east of Melbourne, the Yarra Valley is one of the state’s top wine-producing areas, with dozens of wineries to be visited. Hic.

TAKE A STROLL ALONG NINETY MILE BEACH The endless sandy beach, just by the NSW border, separates the lakes King, Victoria and Wellington from the ocean. It’s backed by dunes and lagoons and is a stunning place to explore.

St Kilda Foreshore

Grampians. There are plenty of opportunities for bush walking, horse riding and rock climbing, plus Aboriginal rock art sites.

A DAY AT THE RACES The Melbourne Cup, known as the “race that stops a nation”, is held on the first Tuesday of November, and Melbourne literally grinds to a halt as everyone takes the day off and blows a week’s wages on a rank outsider. Grab your hat and go.

SNOWY RIVER If you want to get away from it all, head to one of Victoria’s most isolated parks. It also just happens to be the most spectacular. 40

STROLL ALONG ST KILDA FORESHORE

St Kilda’s coaster

Melbourne’s favourite seaside suburb, the foreshore is the place to be seen. Take a stroll and enjoy the city and bay views, while you work off all the beer and cakes that tempted you.

GO WHALE SPOTTING The seaside town of Warrnambool is famous for its whale watching. Head to Logan Beach between June and October.

HIT THE COASTER Say hello to your inner-child as you hurtle along the rollercoaster in this St Kilda icon. You’ll come out with a

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Take a tour Sovereign Hills

FIND GOLD IN SOVEREIGN HILLS

SPEND YOUR CASH AT QUEEN VIC MARKET

Not enough people dressed in Victorian-era clothes in your life? Get to this recreated gold-mining town – a living history museum near Ballarat – full of actors in period costume.

This mega-mental openair market is a source of everything from cheese to fashion. It’s also a great place to pick up a few souvenirs for mum.

HIT THE SLOPES

BLOW YOUR WAD AT CROWN CASINO

Snow bunnies should feel right at home in Victoria in winter, as there’s plenty of skiing, snowboarding and all manner of other ways to break a few limbs. The most popular fields are Mt Buller, Mt Hotham and Falls Creek.

The Aussies love casinos and none come as big and glitzy as Crown (Southbank). Have a meal, dance the night away in a club or lose all your hard-earned dollars on the blackjack table – it’s all possible here.

Melbourne by night

Want to get the inside track on the top spots to visit in Victoria without the hassle? Take a trip with one of these tour providers, winners of the Golden Backpack Awards in 2014 for offering the Best Tour or Activity in Victoria. Winner: Wildlife Tours Wildlife Tours Australia offers an exciting range of Great Ocean Road tours, Phillip Island Penguin Parade tours, Grampians tours, Yarra Valley, Mornington Peninsula and Melbourne to Adelaide tours. The company has a great selection of one-, two- and threeday adventures that offer informative, entertaining and interactive experiences that will leave you with memories to last a lifetime. wildlifetours.com.au Second: Bunyip Tours Bunyip Tours has been offering fun, adventurous tours for more than 10 years and provides a variety of trips in an environmentally responsible way. Its team of energetic and experienced guides will take you on an unforgettable journey to Victoria’s premier destinations. Drop into the office in bustling Melbourne to meet the friendly crew and check out the Neighbours merchandise. Love it. P.S. The Bunyip is a mythical, dream-time creature that is said to inhabit swamps and billabongs and preys upon those who venture where they shouldn’t go. If you get a photo of a Bunyip then you will get the tour for free! bunyiptours.com Third: Groovy Grape Groovy Grape prides itself on providing good-value, all-inclusive Australian adventure tours. Specialists in southern and central Australia, its team of ‘Groovy Guides’ aim to make your outback adventure as fun, flexible and unforgettable as possible. Taste some of the most delicious wine in the Barossa Valley, spot sea lions on Kangaroo Island, hike mountains in the Grampians, watch the sun set over the Twelve Apostles and eat breakfast as the sun rises at Uluru. Groovy Grape Tours caters especially for the youth, adventure traveller and backpacker who want fun, informative, adventurous trips. groovygrape.com.au

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OZTRIP

CHECK OUT A BAND AT “THE ESPY” A St Kilda institution, you can’t say you’ve been to Melbourne unless you’ve checked out a band in the grungy Esplanade Hotel. Long live rock ‘n’ roll.

GET LOCKED UP IN MELBOURNE GAOL

Where to stay

After all these activities you’ll want to rest your weary head on a comfortable pillow in one of these spots, winners of 2014’s Golden Backpack Awards for Best Accommodation in Victoria. Winner: Habitat HQ If you’re looking for an affordable backpackers’ hotel right in the heart of Melbourne’s premier tourist and seaside playground, St Kilda, you can stay ‘guilt free’ in the first carbon-neutral backpacker hostel in Melbs, Habitat HQ. Its laid-back, friendly staff will make sure you feel right at home, welcoming you into the modern and sustainable backpacker accommodation – likely with a tune or two, as this lot love music! Based just 6km south-east of the Melbourne CBD, all the bars, restaurants and shops of this buzzing area are just a short tram ride away. habitathq.com.au

Spend an atmospheric day wandering around this spooky building. Peer into the cells that housed the city’s unsavoury element and see where Ned Kelly stayed.

RIDE THE FREE TRAM You can’t get anything for free nowadays... Not true in Melbourne. Hop on the city-circle tram which loops

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around the heart of the city, stopping at many of the major attractions, and it won’t cost you a cent.

ALL ABOARD PUFFING BILLY If bushwalking isn’t your thing but you still want to explore the Dandenongs, take a ride on this restored steam engine. It makes its way through fern gullies and forested hills, and you can even hang your legs out of the window. Woot-woot!

DIVING IN PORT PHILLIP BAY Don black rubber and jump into the waters of Port Phillip Bay for a close encounter with some of the local wildlife and to explore the new wreck dive.

Take the free tram around Melbs

Second: Base Melbourne Base Backpackers Melbourne hostel is situated in Melbourne’s, if not Australia’s, coolest area, St Kilda. It offers a unique style of hostel living, combining stateof-the-art facilities with a laid-back vibe. The hostel is located only a short tram-ride from Melbourne city centre, and in the heart of St Kilda’s cafes, restaurants, bars and boutiques. The famous Acland and Fitzroy St are only a minute’s walk away. stayatbase.com Third: Space Hotel Space Hotel is located in the heart of the fast-paced and ever changing Melbourne CBD. Modern rooms feature iPod-docking stations, high-quality mattresses and flat screen TVs, plus there are social spaces to play games, watch movies, workout (yep, there’s a gym) and simply lounge around in. The rooftop terrace has a hot tub and there’s an in-house cinema as well as a huge stainless steel kitchen. It’s like your dream apartment for just a few dollars a night. spacehotel.com.au

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TOPTEN

EAST COAST

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Words: Alex Harmon and Caroline Garnar. Photos: iStock and TNT achives.

Hitting the east coast of Australia is quintessential to your backpacking adventure in Oz. If you don’t have a lot of time while you’re here, we recommend hitting these top 10 spots, which are part of the classic tried-andtested journey; kind of like the yellow brick road for travellers. Tour groups such as Contiki (contiki. com) offer a whole host of east coast adventures (see box out to the right for some of its top tours to try). They cram lots in, planning everything for you and providing transport so you don’t have to waste precious time studying guides or maps. You’re going to make a lot of new friends on your adventure, and these are the relationships that last a lifetime, because nothing says friendship like watching out for snakes while your new mate takes a dump in the bush. Or the bonding experience of entering a wet T-shirt competition in Cairns. 44

If you do have more time, then it’s worth stopping in the little coastal towns you find along the way. The people you’ll meet in the small towns are generally friendlier and more typically ‘Aussie’ (in the Crocodile Dundee sense), because Sydney locals think crocs are a type of shoe they wouldn’t be caught dead in, and the price of beers in the small country pubs are circa 1985. Perhaps you’ll get the hang of surfing and experience your own Endless Summer by following the sun north. Maybe you’ll feel at one with the peaceful lifestyle of Rainbow Beach and start selling seashells by the sea shore. We recommend having a backup day job or trust fund if this is the case. Or maybe you’ll just get stuck in Nimbin. You don’t need to tell us why. But, just so you have a good base to start with, here are a few of our favourite experiences we recommend you try when travelling the east coast...

THE WHITSUNDAYS Home to arguably Australia’s most stunning beach, the Whitsundays are a spectacular chain of 74 islands off Queensland party town Airlie Beach. Like Australia’s version of the Greek Islands, spending a few days sailing and diving around these dots of palmfringed jungle is a classic backpacker experience, with main attraction Whitehaven Beach being one of the highlights of the east coast. Of course the islands are also dotted around the Great Barrier Reef, one of the seven natural wonders of the world, and the winner of Best Visitor Attraction at the Golden Backpack Awards 2014. Talking of which, The Whitsundays themselves were voted by backpackers as the best area to visit in the whole of Australia, so there you have it. The best way to explore? Take a blissful sailing trip and just sunbathe, dive or snorkel and enjoy.

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EAST COAST

2 CONTIKI’S TOP EAST COAST TRIPS THREE-DAY SNORKEL OR DIVE TO ADVENTURE Escape into the big blue beyond from Cairns. Go Down Under at the world’s premiere underwater playground, the Great Barrier Reef, and see the flora and fauna that call this natural wonder home across three awesome days. FIVE-DAY TROPICAL WONDER Try some whitewater rafting, a high-speed catamaran cruise to the Great Barrier Reef, or just take in the local wildlife at the various nightclubs around town. Relax and let the sun soak in while you enjoy days of leisure on Long Island. SEVEN-DAY ISLAND AND RAINFOREST Take in the crystal clear waters and the lush tropical settings of the east coast. Ride the Captain Cook Highway with rainforest on one side and the Great Barrier Reef on the other, exploring both as you go. CITY TO SURF Want a taste of the big city but also lots of beachside action? City to Surf gives you a taste of both the buzzing city scene and chilled beach life, Aussie-style. Start off in Sydney, exploring the iconic sites and maybe fit in some shopping before making your way to Coffs Harbour and the Surf Camp experience. Maybe cuddle a koala then take it up a notch in the ultimate Aussie party spot, Surfers Paradise. contiki.com

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DISCOVER NOOSA

FRASER ISLAND (& MORE)

Noosa, from an Aboriginal word meaning ‘place of many trees’, has a sunny climate and warm locals. Some must-dos are the Noosa National Park, shopping along Hastings St, tours around the nearby Fraser Island (see right), surfing, horseback riding, Jet Skiing, kite surfing, kayaking, biking and parachuting. Noosa is also a backpacker’s delight with well-priced resorts, a bustling nightlife and loads of bars and live music.

A perennial fave, nothing quite beats hitting up the world’s largest sand island in a 4WD. The inland lakes are also some of the best swimming spots you’re likely to find in Oz. Another little secret for you: it’s a base for Fraser Island sure, but there’s a fair bit to see and do in Rainbow Beach too. Bizarre multi-coloured cliffs, friendly locals, spectacular coastal scenery, Great Sandy National Park, lovely beaches... it’s a wonderful little escape.

EVERYBODY’S SURFING

A TALE OF TWO TOWNS

Like the feel of a board between your legs? Some of the best surf spots are found on the east coast, starting with Whitehaven Beach, which offers perfect waves as well as scenery. Southern Queensland is, in more ways than one, Surfers Paradise. The reef puts a stop to the waves at Bundaberg, but until then, learning to surf is the most fun you can have with (some of) your clothes on. In Sydney, Manly is the perfect place to give it a try.

The thoroughly lovely twin coastal towns of Agnes Water and Town of 1770 are surrounded by inviting national park, offering delightful beaches, turtle watching and access to reef islands. The area is also a great spot to learn to dive and surf, or even for motorbike tours around town. Plus the towns are bathed in that infectious laidback feel – a taste of old-skool Queensland. It’s also the closest point to access to the Southern Great Barrier Reef. Dive straight in!

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EAST COAST

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DIVING THE GREAT BARRIER REEF

AHHHHH-DRENALIN KICKS

When heading up or down the east coast you’re going to be subjected to some of the most beautiful crystal clear water you’ve ever seen. Oh and a World Heritage-listed reef. So take advantage of both by learning to dive. If you’re further south, you can easily find a scuba school in Sydney, but if you want some Great Barrier action you’re going to have to wait till you get to Queensland. There’s 2,000km of it so don’t worry, you’re not going to miss it. A great variation on reef diving is checking out the Yongala wreck off of Townsville. It’s rated as the best wreck dive in Australia with an abundance of marine life to see.

If you like your travels with a side of ‘Oh my God I’m going to die!’ then the east coast won’t disappoint. The AJ Hackett site near Cairns is one of the only places in Oz where you can bungy. It’s also very pretty. If you don’t fancy being attached to a rubber chord then perhaps skydiving is your thing. Offered at all the main hubs along the east coast, it makes you feel invincible, scares the living shit out of you and offers incredible views in the process. What’s not to like? Want something a bit more surreal? Try Zorbing on the Gold Coast – you’re basically thrown down a hill inside a big ball.

Photos: iStock, AJ HAckett Cairns and Raging Thunder Adventures.

CAPE YORK ROADTRIP

HIT THE WHITE WATER

NEWCASTLE

Beyond Cooktown lies the remote Cape York Peninsula, at the northernmost tip of Australia (only 150km from Papua New Guinea). It is still one of the wildest and least populated parts of Oz. Unsealed roads, river crossings and crocs make the adventure one of the best roadtrips Down Under. Just don’t even think about it without a 4WD, and travel prepared – water, water and more water.

Whitewater rafting is a knucklewhitening ride that’s all for real. The Tully River, accessed from Mission Beach and Cairns, is the most popular place to get wet. Hold on for the ride of your life as you whizz down the rapids. Mission Beach itself is another underrated gem; a great place to detox after (or before) Cairns, with snorkelling, diving, skydiving and rainforest walks all available.

Named after England’s famous coal port, Newcastle was originally the place where the most dangerous convicts were sent to dig in the coal mines as harsh punishment for their crimes. Guess who’s having the last laugh now... Yep, it has great surf spots, offers high-adrenalin among the sand dunes, its art scene is growing and its small bar scene is overflowing. Definitely worth a visit from Sydney.

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OZLISTINGS TOUR FIRMS Adventure Tours Australia-wide tours 1800 068 886, adventuretours.com.au Airliebeach.com Whitsundays packages 1800 677 119, airliebeach.com Autopia Tours Tours around Victoria 03 9391 0261, autopiatours.com.au Awesome Adventures Oz Whitsundays packages 1800 293 7663, awesomeoz.com Tours in Tasmania Tours around Tasmania 1800 777 103, tourstascom.au Bunyip Tours Tours around Victoria 1300 286 947, bunyiptours.com

linking Adelaide, Alice Springs & Melbourne 1800 661 177, groovygrape.com.au

Ocean Rafting Whitsundays tours 07 4946 6848, oceanrafting.com

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

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

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

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

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

The Rock Tour Red centre tours 1800 246 345, therocktour.com.au

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

Topdeck Tours covering all of Oz 1300 886 332, topdeck.travel

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

Cool Dingos Fraser Island Tours 1800 072 555, cooldingotour.com

Whitsundays Sailing Adventures Whitsundays sailing 07 4940 2007 WhitsundaysSailingAdventures. com.au

Explore Whitsundays Whitsundays packages 1800 675 790, explorewhitsundays.com Groovy Grape Getaways Tours

Mojosurf Sydney to Byron surfing tours 1800 113 044, mojosurf.com

RENTAL FIRMS Apollo Motorhomes 1800 777 779, apollocamper.com Mighty Cars and Campers (Formerly Backpacker Campervan Rentals) 1800 809 944 mightycampers.com.au Boomerang Cars 0414 882 559, boomerangrentacar.net Hippie Camper 1800 777 779, hippiecamper.com

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

Spaceships 1300 132 469, spaceshipsrentals.com.au

Western Xposure WA tours 08 9414 8423, westernxposure.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

Kings Cross Car Market For buying and selling vehicles. 110 Bourke St, Woolloomooloo. 02 9358 5000, carmarket.com.au

Standbycars.com 1300 789 059, standbycars.com Travellers Auto Barn 1800 674 374, travellers-autobarn.com.au Wicked Campers 1800 246 869, wickedcampers.com

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

GO WILD

Base Sydney 477 Kent St. CBD.

Westend Backpackers 412 Pitt St. CBD. 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. yha.com.au Lamrock Lodge 19 Lamrock Ave. Bondi. 02 9130 5063, lamrocklodge.com

The Enmore enmoretheatre.com.au

Head to the zoo right in Darling Harbour to meet a huge range of Aussie animals, including giant crocs, plus the slightly more friendly koalas who hang out on the roof. Online tickets cost $28.

Byron Bay YHA 7 Carlyle St.

Blue Mountains YHA 207 Katoomba St, Katoomba. yha.com.au

Skydive the Beach Byron Bay Kingsford Smith Park, Ballina 1800 302 005 skydivethebeachbyronbay.com

CENTRAL COAST

wildlifesydney.com.au Glebe Point YHA 262-264 Glebe Point Road. Glebe. yha.com.au

Sydney Aquarium Darling Harbour. sydneyaquarium.com.au

Boardrider Backpacker Rear 63, The Corso, Manly. 02 9977 6077 boardrider.com.au

Sydney Wildlife World Darling Harbour. sydneywildlifeworld.com.au

The Bunkhouse 35 Pine St, Manly. 1800 657 122, bunkhouse.com.au

Taronga Zoo Mosman. taronga.org.au

Manly Backpackers 24-28 Raglan St. Manly. 02 9977 3411 manlybackpackers.com.au

Waves Surf School wavessurfschool.com.au

Cammeray Gardens 66 Palmer St, North Sydney. 02 9954 9371 sydneyboardinghouse.com

Newcastle Beach YHA 30 Pacific St, Newcastle. yha.com.au

COFFS HARB Coffs Harbour YHA 51 Collingwood St.

Terrigal Beach YHA 9 Ocean View Dr, Terrigal. yha.com.au

Harbour City Holiday Park 123 Pacific Highway

coffsholidaypark.com.au

The Entrance Backpackers 2/56 The Entrance Road, The Entrance, 2261 02 4334 5005 theentrancebackpackers.com

Hoey Moey Backpackers 80 Ocean Pde hoeymoey.com.au Solitary Islands Marine Resort North St, Wooli NSW 1462 1800 003 031 solitaryislandsresort.com.au

Skydive Central Coast Warnervale. skydivethecentralcoast.com.au

IN THE SPOTLIGHT

Wake Up! 509 Pitt St, CBD.

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

Aegean Coogee Lodge 40 Coogee Bay Rd. Coogee. 04 0817 6634, aegeancoogee.com.au

Powerhouse Museum Darling Harbour. powerhousemuseum.com.au

Surfside Backpackers 186 Arden Street. Coogee. 02 9315 7888, surfsidebackpackers.com.au

Nomads Byron Bay Lawson Lane.

BLUE MTNS

WILD LIFE SYDNEY

Oceanworld Manly West Esplanade. oceanworld.com.au

Coogee Beachside 178 Coogee Bay Rd, Coogee. 02 9315 8511, sydneybeachside.com.au

The Arts Factory 1 Skinners Shoot Rd.

The Metro metrotheatre.com.au

Lochner’s Guesthouse 27 Paul St. Bondi. 02 9389 5421

Coogee Beach House 171 Arden St. Coogee. 02 9665 1162, coogeebeachhouse.com

Byron Bay Accom 02 6680 8666, byronbayaccom.net

The Annandale annandalehotel.com

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

Sydney Central YHA 11 Rawson Place. CBD.

Backpackers Inn 29 Shirley St 1800 817 696 backpackersinnbyronbay.com.au

Sydney Opera House sydneyoperahouse.com

Bounce Budget Hotel 28 Chalmers St. CBD.

City Resort Hostel 103-105 Palmer St. Woolloomooloo 02 9357 3333 cityresort.com.au

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

Oxford Art Factory oxfordartfactory.com

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

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

SYDNEY MUSIC Hordern Pavillion playbillvenues.com

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

CLIMBING THE SYDNEY HARBOUR BRIDGE Sure, there’s no denying this is an expensive experience (especially once you throw in the photos sting), but if you can spare the cash, this is one biggy we’d recommend splashing out for. Clambering up the bare metal of the bridge for an unparalleled view of the harbour is something you’re unlikely to forget. Also, imagine how many tourists’ photos you’ll be in. It’s the most expensive time to do it, but go at twilight if you can as you’ll enjoy both daytime and afterdark views. Climbs from $218. bridgeclimb.com

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TASLISTINGS

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

LAUNCESTON DO

CHECK OUT!

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. 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

Those in search of real adventure should make their way to southwest Tassie, one of Australia’s greatest wilderness regions. Some of it still isn’t mapped and if the Tassie tiger still exists, it’ll be here.

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

parks.tas.gov.au

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

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

THE SOUTH-WEST

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

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

@tnt_downunder

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. Freycinet National Park Brewery, Wineglass Bay camping. 03 6256 7000 wineglassbay.com

STRAHAN, Strahan YHA 43 Harvey St.

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: Tasmania Tourism

IN THE SPOTLIGHT

BAY OF FIRES Despite being named as one of the world’s best beaches by Lonely Planet a few years ago, this undeveloped, idyllic corner of north-eastern Tassie, from Binalong Bay to Eddystone Point, is still, just about, hanging onto its off-the-beaten-track status. Kick back and enjoy the turquoise waters, white sands and fiery red granite rocks that give the area its name. bayoffires.com.au

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VICLISTINGS

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MELBOURNE STAY All Nations Nomads 2 Spencer St.

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

DON’T MISS!

Base Melbourne 17 Carlisle St, St. Kilda.

GIPPSLAND Prom Coast YHA Backpackers 0427 875 735

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

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

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.

PHILLIP ISLAND Amaroo Park YHA 97 Church St, Cowes.

MELBOURNE INTERNATIONAL COMEDY FESTIVAL

It’s one of Australia’s best events and it’s now announced its first lot of acts so move fast to get tix. It runs from March 25 to April 19 and so far includes Ruby Wax, Rich Hall, Michael Che and more. comedyfestival.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 Melbourne Oasis YHA 76 Chapman St St Arnaud 99 Park St, South Yarra, starnaudguesthouse.com

Nomads Melbourne 198 A’beckett St.

The Spencer City Central BP 475 Spencer St spencerbackpackers.com.au

Space Hotel 380 Russell St. 1800 670 611, spacehotel.com.au

The Nunnery 116 Nicholson Street, Fitzroy nunnery.com.au

The Spencer 475 Spencer St. 1800 638 108, spencerbackpackers.com.au Back of Chapel 50 Green St, Windsor College Lawn Hotel 36 Greville St, Prahran collegelawnhotel.com.au Claremont Guesthouse 189 Toorak Rd, South Yarra hotelclaremont.com

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

City Centre Budget Hotel 22-30 Little Collins St citycentrebudgethotel.com

Coffee Palace Backpackers 24 Grey St coffeepalacebackpackers.com. au

Elephant Backpackers 250 Flinders St elephantbackpacker.com.au

Habitat HQ 333 St Kilda Rd, thehabitathq.com.au

Elizabeth Hostel 490 Elizabeth St elizabethhostel.com.au

Oslo Hotel 38 Grey St oslohotel.com.au

King St Backpackers 160 King Street kingstreetbackpackers.com.au

The Ritz for Backpackers 109 Barkly St ritzbackpackers.com

St Kilda Beach House 169B Fitzroy St stkildabeachhouse.com.au

MELBOURNE DO

40 Noble St, Anglesea. 03 5263 2664, angleseabackpackers.com.au Apollo Eco Beach YHA 5 Pascoe St.

Anchor Belle Holiday Park 272 Church St, Cowes. 03 5952 2258, anchorbelle.com.au Avenue Apartments 204 Thompson Avenue, Cowes. 03 5952 6718, visitphillipisland.com Beach Park Tourist Caravan Park 2 McKenzie Rd, Cowes. 03 5952 22113, beachpark.com.au

Australian Centre for the Moving Image Federation Square. 03 8663 2200, acmi.net.au

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

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

Melbourne Aquarium Cnr of Flinders St & King St. 03 9923 5999, melbourneaquarium.com.au

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

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

Discovery Melbourne 167 Franklin St. discoverymelbourne.com

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

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

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 Melbourne 1300 798 843 skydivethebeachmelbourne.com Tourism Victoria Backpacking ideas. backpackmelbourne.com Wildlife Tours Australia Specialising in Victorian tours +61 3 9314 2225 wildlifetours.com.au

GREAT OCEAN RD Anglesea Backpackers

MORNINGTON Bayplay Lodge 46 Canterbury Jetty Rd, Blairgowrie. 03 5988 0188, bayplay.com.au Sorrento Foreshore Reserve Nepean Hwy. 1800 850 600, mornpen.vic.gov.au Sorrento YHA 3 Miranda St, Sorrento. Tortoise Head Lodge French Island. 03 5980 1234, tortoisehead.net

DANDENONG Emerald Backpackers 03 5968 4086

MURRAY RIVER Echuca Gardens YHA 103 Av, Mitchell St, Echuca. Mildura City Backpackers 50 Lemon Ave, Mildura. 03 5022 7922, milduracitybackpackers.com.au

Koala Park Resort 1825 Phillip Island Rd, Cowes. 03 5952 2176, koalaparkresort.com.au The Island Accommodation 10-12 Phillip Island Tourist Road. 03 5956 6123 theislandaccommodation.com. au San Remo Holiday Park 4 Mary Grove, San Remo. 03 5678 5024 visitphillipisland.com

GRAMPIANS Grampians YHA Eco Hostel Cnr Grampians & Buckler Rds, Halls Gap. Tim’s Place 44 Grampians Road, Halls Gap. 03 5356 4288, timsplace.com.au

MILDURA Mildura City Backpackers 50 Lemon Avenue milduracitybackpackers.com.au

STRATHMERTON Riviera Backpackers YHA 669 Esplanade

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QLDLISTINGS

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IN THE SPOTLIGHT

BUNDABERG If the beautiful weather, stunning coastline, turtles and coral-fringed beaches don’t seduce you, then the local rum will. Bundy is famous for its cane fields, which produce the country’s most famous tipple – it’s up there with Vegemite and Tim Tams. You’ll also likely to find fruit-picking and farm work here if you decide to stay. bundabergregion.org

BRISBANE STAY Aussie Way Backpackers 34 Cricket St. 07 3369 0711, aussiewaybackpackers.com Banana Bender Backpackers 118 Petrie Terrace. 07 3367 1157, bananabenders.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

Photos: Tourism Queensland/Peter Lik

Balmoral House 33 Amelia St, Fortitude Valley vipbackpackers.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 XXXX Brewery Tours & Ale House Brewery tours. Cnr Black & Paten St, Milton. 07 3361 7597, xxxxalehouse.com. au

Brisbane City YHA 392 Upper Roma St 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

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

Coolangatta YHA Pl, 230 Coolangatta Rd, Bilinga.

Wet ‘n’ Wild Water World wetnwild.myfun.com.au

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

Warner Bros Movie World movieworld.com.au

Islander Backpackers Resort 6 Beach Rd, Surfers. 1800 074 393, islander.com.au Sleeping Inn Surfers 26 Peninsular Dr, Surfers Paradise. 1800 817 832, sleepinginn.com.au

Zorb 07 5547 6300

SUNSHINE CST Mooloolaba Backpackers 75-77 Brisbane Rd, Mooloolaba. 1800 020 120 mooloolababackpackers.com

RAINBOW BEACH

Surfers Paradise Backpackers Resort 2837 Gold Coast Highway, Surfers. 1800 282 800, surfersparadisebackpackers. com.au

Dingos Backpacker Adventure Resort 20 Spectrum St. 1800 111126, dingosresort.com

Surfers Paradise YHA Mariners Cove, 70 Seaworld Drive, Main Beach, Surfers Paradise.

Pippies Beach House 22 Spectrum St. 1800 425 356, pippiesbeachhouse.com

Trekkers Backpackers 22 White St, Southport. 07 5591 5616, trekkersbackpackers.com.au

Skydive Rainbow Beach 0418 218 358, skydiverainbowbeach.com

Nomads Islander Resort 3128 Surfers Paradise Blvd, 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

HERVEY BAY Aussie Woolshed 181 Torquay Rd 07 4124 0677 woolshedbackpackers.com.au Next at Hervey Bay 10 Bideford St. 1800 102 989, nextbackpackers.com Palace Backpackers 184 Torquay, 1800 063 168, palaceadventures.com.au

FRASER ISLAND Eurong Beach Resort 07 4120 1600, eurong.com.au Palace Adventures 184 Torquay St, Hervey Bay, 1800 063 168 palaceadventures.com.au Barefoot Lodge Long Island barefootlodge.com.au Colonial Village YHA 820 Boat Harbour Drive, Urangan, Hervey Bay 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

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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. Backpackers by the Bay 12 Hermitage Dr. 1800 646 994, backpackersbythebay.com Base Airlie Beach Resort 336 Shute Harbour Rd

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

LET THE ADVENTURE BEGIN!

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

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

141 Sheridan St. and fast food joints to help with yourHarbour Gilligan's hangover. 1800 807 055, Magnums Whitsunday Village Resort 13:00: Continuing north of Port Douglas you’ll land in njoy.net.au 366 Shute Harbour Rd. 1800Gorge 624 634 (mossmangorge.com.au). At Daintree Mossman Nomads Beach House magnums.com.au Sheridan St. National Park the gorge is a must-see.239 Once you’ve trekked along the path you’ll be able to give your feet a rest and Northern Greenhouse BOWEN 117that Grafton Street. admire the crystal clear Mossman River cascades over Bowen Backpackers 1800 229 228, Beach end of Herbert St. granite boulders. northerngreenhouse.com.au 07 4786 3433 15:00: Heading back to the car and continuing north bowenbackpackers.net CAIRNS DO you’ll find yourself at Cape Tribulation. Check out Ferntree AJ Hackett Bungy jumping & canyon Rainforest Lodge (ferntreerainforestlodge.com.au) TOWNSVILLE swinging. 1800 622 888 Adventurers Resort with a bar and wooden which has classic huts tables. They cairns.ajhackett.com 79 Palmer St. serve scrumptious After eating 1800 211 522, meals night and day. Go Wild Jungle Tours it’s adventurersresort.com tours a to Croc Daintreecruise Rainforest. time to enjoy the delights of the CapeDaywith 07 4041 9440, Adrenalin Dive (daintreerivercruises.com.au) A onejungletours.com.au hour wildlife cruise 07 4724 0600, that lets you spot wild animals in their habitat. Be adrenalindive.com.au Pronatural Dive 07 4031 5255 warned: Yongala don’t Dive walk too close to any mangroves, you might prodivecairns.com Yongala diving. get an unwanted snap. 07 4783 1519, Raging Thunder Adventures 19:00: Withyongaladive.com.au all that excitement it’s time to head back Whitewater rafting. 07 head 4030 7990, towards Cairns. As the evening settles, straight into the ragingthunder.com.au city centre where there is wide MAGNETIC IS array of restaurants for you Skydive Cairns to pick from along Island the main strip. Base Magnetic POBOX 105N Cairns 1 Nelly Bay Rd. 4052 1822, 19:00: And it wouldn't be true Cairns 07 experience without skydivecairns.com.au Bungalow Bay Backpackers dancing the night away at The Woolshed (thewoolshed. Horseshow Bay. com.au).1800 With themed nights on every night, try your luck 285 577, CAPE TRIB in the wet bungalowbay.com.au T-shirt competitions or seeCrocodylus how you fare in their Village Arcadia games. Either way you'll Lot 5, Buchanan Creek Cairns Rd, Mexican Hotel drinking end your 7 Marine Parade, Arcadia Bay. Cow Bay. trip on a07high. 4778 5177, 07 4098 9166,

hotelaracadia.com.au

. . . E R E H Y L L A IN F E ’R YOU

crocodyluscapetrib.com

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

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

www.prodivecairns.com SHOP: Cnr Shields & Grafton Sts, Cairns FREECALL: 1800 353 213 PHONE: +617 4031 5255 RES: info@prodivecairns.com TNTDOWNUNDER.COM53 55 tntdownunder.com

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QLDLISTINGS 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 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

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

@tnt_downunder Cotton Tree Beachouse 15 the Esplanade cottontreebackpackers.com

AGNES WATER 1770 Beachside Backpacker 12 Captain Cook Drive independentbackpackers.com 1770 Southern Cross Backpackers 2694 Round Hill Rd 1770southerncross.com

ROCKHAMPTON

The Duporth 6 Wharf St, Maroochydore theduporth.com.au

TOWNSVILLE Adventurers Backpackers 79 Palmer St adventurersresort.com

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

SUNSHINE COAST

Civic Guest House Backpackers Hostel 262 Walker St civicguesthousetownsville. com.au Foreign Exchange Accommodation Beachside 19 Eyre St, North Ward foreignx.com.au

Australia Zoo 1638 Steve Irwin Way, Sunshine Coast australiazoo.com

Codge Lodge 63 Rankin St codgelodge.com

The Discovery Group Noosa Everglades thediscoverygroup.com.au

Crown Hostel 25 Ernest St 07 4061 2266

Drop Bear Adventures Fraser Island from Noosa dropbearadventures.com.au

Backpackers Shack 7 Ernest St fbackpakershack.com

Bli Bli House B&B 600 David Low Way, Pacific Paradise. buderimmotorinn.com

Base Magnetic Island 1 Nelly Bay Rd

Kanu Kapers Australia Noosa Everglades kanukapersaustralia.com

Farm work, Innisfail farmwork.tv/farmwork/innisfail

Beach Front Towers 4 Aerodrome Rd, Marochydore beachfronttowers.com.au

Bungalow Bay Koala Village 40 Horseshoe Bay Rd bungalowbay.com.au

Amore on Buderim 27 Earlybird Dr, Buderim amoreonbuderim.com.au

MACKAY Gecko’s Rest 34 Sydney St geckosrest.com.au

Buderim Motor Inn 45 King St, Buderim buderimmotorinn.com

MAGNETIC IS

Photos: Tourism Queensland

IN THE SPOTLIGHT

SURFING THE GOLD COAST You can’t claim to have experienced Australia until you’ve had a go at the national obsession – surfing. And where else to try it but at Surfers Paradise? Well actually, if you’re half-decent on a board, Surfers is one of the worst places on the GC to look for waves. Instead try South Straddie, Snapper Rocks or Burleigh Heads, which are all world class (literally, as some of the planet’s best boardriders often hang out there). However, if it’s your first go, then Surfers is, well, paradise. surfingqueensland.com

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Australiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

Gold Coast

Famous for fun

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DARWIN STAY

DO THIS!

Banyan View Lodge Darwin 119 Mitchell St. 08 8981 8644, banyanviewlodge.com.au Darwin YHA 97 Mitchell St.

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

KAYAKING KATHERINE GORGE Save cash, avoid the crowds and ride the Katherine in your very own kayak. It’s the best way to get a croc’s eye feel for the spectacular gorges of Nitmiluk National Park. Just be careful where you swim.

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

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

BIG4 Katherine Holiday Park 20 Shadforth Road. 1800 501 984, big4.com.au Palm Court Kookaburra Backpackers Third St. 08 8972 2722

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

DARWIN DO

KATHERINE STAY

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

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

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. Haven Resort 3 Larapinta Drive. 1800 794 663, alicehaven.com.au

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Toddy’s Backpackers 41 Gap Rd. Rock & dorm specials. 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

Photos: Tourism NT, Tourism WA/Greg Snell

NTLISTINGS

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PERTH STAY Billabong Backpackers Resort 381 Beaufort St. 08 9328 7720, billabongresort.com.au

Coolibah Lodge 194 Brisbane St coolibahlodge.com.au

CHECK OUT!

One World Backpackers 162 Aberdeen St, Northbridge. 1800 188 100, oneworldbackpackers.com.au Perth City YHA 300 Wellington St. The Old Swan Barracks 2-8 Francis St. 08 9428 0000, theoldswanbarracks.com

Wickham Retreat Backpackers 25-27 Wickham St, East Perth 08 9325 6398

Grand Central Hotel Backpackers 379 Wellington St 08 9421 1123

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

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

Underground Backpackers 268 Newcastle St, undergroundbackpackers. com.au

Easy Perth Backpacker 4 Francis Street, Northbridge easyperthbackpackers.com.au

Britannia on William 253 William St, Northbridge. 08 9227 6000, perthbritannia.com

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

Northbridge shiralee.com.au

YMCA Jewell House 180 Goderich St ymcajewellhouse.com.au

Hay Street Backpackers 266-268 Hay St haystbackpackers.com

Coolibah Lodge 194 Brisbane St coolibahlodge.com.au

Hotel Bambu Backpackers 75 - 77 Aberdeen St, Northbridge bambu.net.au

ROTTNEST ISLAND “Rotto” to the locals is a sandy island with pristine waters and secluded beaches. Just 19km off Fremantle, it got its name, “Rats nest”, from the rat-like quokkas (who’re actually very cute) who inhabit the island. rottnestisland.com Underground Backpackers 268 Newcastle St, Northbridge. 08 9228 3755, underground backpackers.com.au

Backpack City and Surf 41-43 Money St backpacker.com.au

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

Cheviot Lodge 30 Bulwer St cheviotlodge.com

Beatty Lodge 235 Vincent St beattylodge.com.au

PERTH DO

Mountway Holiday Apartments 36 Mount St mountwayapartments.com.au Ocean Beach Backpackers 1 Eric St, Cottesloe oceanbeachbackpackers.com.au Perth Beach YHA 256 West Coast Hwy, Scarbrough Planet Inn Backpackers 496 Newcastle St planetinn.com.au The Shiralee Hostel 107 Brisbane St,

Aquarium of Western Australia 91 Southside Drive, Hillarys. 08 9447 7500, aqwa.com.au Art Gallery of Western Australia Perth Cultural Centre/Roe St, Perth. 08 9492 6600, artgallery.wa.gov.au Aviation Heritage Museum Bull Creek Drive, Air Force Memorial Estate, Perth. 08 9311 4470, raafawa.org.au

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

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.

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WALISTINGS Crown Perth Great Eastern Hwy, Burswood. 08 9362 7777, crownperth.com.au

The Rosemount Hotel rosemounthotel.com.au

CHECK THIS OUT!

The Newport Hotel thenewport.com

Kings Park & Botanic Garden bgpa.wa.gov.au

The Beat Megaclub thebeatmegaclub.com.au

Moonlight Cinema Synergy Parklan, Kings Park, Perth. moonlight.com.au

Universial Bar universalbar.com.au Ya-Ya’s ya-yas.com.au

Perth Mint 310 Hay St. 08 9421 7223, perthmint.com.au

FREO STAY

Perth Zoo 20 Labouchere Road, South Perth. 08 9474 3551, perthzoo.wa.gov.au

Backpackers Inn Freo 11 Pakenham St. 08 9431 7065, backpackersinnfreo.com.au

Penguin Island 153 Arcadia Drive (corner of Penguin Road), Shoalwater, Perth. 08 9591 1333, penguinisland.com.au Perth Concert Hall 5 St George’s Terr., Perth. 08 9231 9900, perthconcerthall.com.au St Mary’s Cathedral 17 Victoria Square,, Perth. 08 9223 1350, perthcatholic.org.au St George’s Cathedral 38 St George’s Terrace, Perth. 08 9325 5766, perthcathedral.org

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NAMBUNG NATIONAL PARK Just a couple of hours north of Perth, often making them the first stop on a west coast roadtrip, the Pinnacles are a surreal collection of hundreds of ancient limestone pillars rising out of the yellow sand. They’re at their most eerie at sunset, or better yet, sunrise, when you’re more likely to avoid the tour groups. parks.dpaw.wa.gov.au/park/nambung

The Perth Mint 310 Hay Street, Perth. 08 9421 7376, perthmint.com.au The WACA Nelson Crescent, East Perth. 08 9265 7222,, waca.com.au Western Australian Museum James St,

08 9212 3700, museum.wa.gov.au

PERTH MUSIC Amplifier Capital amplifiercapitol.com.au Astor liveattheastor.com.au Belgian Beer Cafe

belgianbeer.com.au Perth Arena pertharena.com.au Metro Cityl metroconcertclub.com The Bakery nowbaking.com.au The Ellington Jazz Club ellingtonjazz.com.au

Old Firestation Backpackers 18 Phillimore St. 08 9430 5454, oldfirestation.com.au Sundancer Backpackers Resort 80 High St. 08 9336 6080, sundancerbackpackers.com Pirates Backpackers Resort 11 Essex St. 08 9335 6653, piratesbackpackers.com.au

FREO DO Fremantle Markets Henderson Street Fremantle 08 9335 2515, fremantlemarkets.com.au

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

ROTTNEST ISL Rottnest Island YHA Kingstown Barracks. Rottnest Express 1 Emma Place North Fremantle 1300 Go Rotto rottnestexpress.com.au

MARGARET RIVER Margaret River Lodge YHA 220 Railway Tce. Harmony Forest 248 Sebbes Rd. 08 9757 7055, harmonyforest.com.au Surfpoint 12 Riedle Drive Prevally 08 9757 1777 surfpoint.com.au

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

MONKEY MIA

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

NINGALOO REEF Blue Reef Backpackers 3 Truscott Crescent, Exmouth 1800 621 101, aspenparks.com.au Ningaloo Club Coral Bay 08 9948 5100, ningalooclub.com Excape Backpackers YHA Murat Rd, Exmouth.

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

CORAL BAY Ningaloo Club Robinson St ningalooclub.com

ESPERANCE Blue Waters Lodge YHA 299 Goldfields Rd,

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

IN THE SPOTLIGHT

Photos: Tourism WA

BROOME Historically an old pearling town, Broome is brimming with Asian and Aboriginal culture, fantastic eateries, impressive sunsets and pristine beaches. It’s a stunning hippy-haven for some, and the gateway to a world of wondrous outback adventures in the Kimberley for others. Cable Beach (pictured), on which you can book camel rides for the sunset ride of your life and a fantastic photo opp, is known as one of the world’s most beautiful coastal stretches. Another picture pick is the Staircase to the Moon, a reflective effect from the full moon over the mud flats of Town Beach. Plus, there’s an open-air market to enjoy the view with food. visitbroome.com.au

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IN THE SPOTLIGHT

SANDBOARDING AT LITTLE SAHARA Sandboarding the dunes of Little Sahara is a must-do while you’re on Kangaroo Island. The sand stretches for miles, rising 70m above sea level. As you climb one peak you’re confronted with another, like waves of sand that continue as far as they eye can see. Sure, it’s a poor man’s snowboarding, but it still has the fun, thrills and spills, plus no pricey bill at the end. kiadventuretours.com.au

ADELAIDE STAY Adelaide Backpackers Inn 112 Carrington St. 1800 24 77 25, abpi.com.au Adelaide Central YHA 135 Waymouth St. 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

Adelaide Oval Home to the Donald Bradman collection. War Memorial Drive. 08 8300 3800 adelaideoval.com.au Adelaide Zoo Frome Rd. 08 8267 3255, zoossa.com.au 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

COOBER PEDY 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.

Riverland Backpackers Labour Hire Services 08 8583 0211

Vivonne Bay Lodge 66 Knofel Drive, Vivonne Bay 13 13 01 sealink.com.a

Port Elliot Beach House YHA 13 The Strand, Port Elliot.

Harvest Trail Lodge Loxton. 08 8584 5646, harvesttrail.com.au Nomads on Murray Sturt Highway,

Glenelg Beach Hostel 5-7 Moseley St. Glenelg. 1800 359 181, glenelgbeachhostel.com.au

Photos: SATC

Baird Bay Ocean Eco Experience Sea lion and dolphin swims. 08 8626 5017 bairdbay.com Calypso Star Charters Great white shark cage diving. 08 8682 3939, sharkcagediving.com.au

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

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

EYRE PENINSULA Coodlie Park Farmstay Flinders Highway, Port Kenny. 08 8687 0411 coodliepark.com

Port Lincoln Tourist Park 11 Hindmarsh St. 08 8621 4444, portlincolntouristpark.com.au

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

ADELAIDE DO

FLEURIEU PEN

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

CHECK THIS OUT!

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

Kingston on Murray.

FLINDERS RANGES FLEURIEU PENINSULA Rammed with sweet surf spots and chilled-out beaches, the peninsula is one of the easiest places to escape to from Adelaide. It’s also the area you’ll have to pass through if you’re planning a trip to Kangaroo Island. Get dizzy trying the local wines, strain your eyes for passing whales, or get sweaty climbing up Mt Magnificent for views which are, er, not bad. You can even see a little penguin parade on Granite Island, just off Victor Harbour (pictured). fleurieupeninsula.com.au

Angorichina Tourist Village 08 8648 4842, angorichinavillage.com.au Wilpena Pound Resort Wilpena Rd. 08 8648 0004, wilpenapound.com.au

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TOUR SEARCH 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.

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NZ TRAVEL NZ TRIP | NORTH & SOUTH ISLAND LISTINGS

FEARLESS SAILING ON LAKE TAUPO / 66 “When the wind is in the sails and the sun is setting, with a beer or wine in the hand, it is a pretty magical evening. And at only $35 (for life!) anyone can come back again, as long as they bring a bottle or biscuits. Bargain!”

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Simply the best Lake Taupo was voted as the best destination in the whole of New Zealand at the Golden Backpack Awards 2014. Hereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s why... WORDS FRANCESCA BAKER

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NZTRIP They call it the Taupo Trap. Not that New Zealand’s largest lake actually sucks you in like some Australasian Bermuda Triangle (although covering an area of 616 sq km, it is capable of subsuming Singapore); but because, once you visit, you probably won’t want to leave. Indeed, many don’t, as I found out on my brief but wonderful stay in and around this North Island gem. Like most things in New Zealand, it’s worth starting with the geology and geography. As part of the volatile chain of volcanoes that lines the Pacific Ring where the Pacific plate slides under its Indo-Australian neighbour, the area has had its fair share of earth moving and shaking, and the lake was originally a volcanic crater. The last major eruption happened 1,800 years ago (making one 1,100 years overdue) and was so violent that it was recorded in Roman and Chinese history – both rather far away. This has resulted in a dramatic location, offering far more than just a pool of water. The 170km of shoreline surrounds a glistening blue-green lake, fed by the Tongariro and Tauranga-Taupo rivers and 32 wandering tributaries, along with the Waikati River Outlet. It’s surrounded by a stunning backdrop of mountains looming over, including the lady-shaped Mount Tauhara and the vast Kaimanawa range, which shimmer in the waking light and glow in the setting sun. Along with access to activities all around as well as a bright town centre, Taupo has become a vibrant hub for people, places, holidays and happiness. Most people in Taupo don’t start on the lake, but above it. Hurtling towards it even. Taupo is the skydive capital of New Zealand, and the bright pink planes of Skydive Taupo can be seen every day over the lake. Taupo is both one of the prettiest (and cheapest) places to leap out of a plane. I jump with Chris, who has done more than 8,000 jumps – the first when he was nine! – but despite the fact that he clearly knows what he is doing, free falling from 12,000 or 15,000 feet is still a little unnerving. It is unnatural – gravity pulling you through the air while you plummet towards the ground, having leapt from a 200km/h plane – but glorious. A thrill and rush during the initial jump, and then a graceful glide once the parachute opens. Watching the world unfold beneath you is a rush that seizes you with fear and excitement. skydivetaupo.co.nz At a lower height, yet with just as beautiful views, try parasailing with Big

Parasail over the lake Sky Parasail. With the sunshine on your shoulders and a breeze in your hair, music pumping and the ridge of the mountains all around, parasailing is one of the nicest and most relaxing ways you can see the lake, while still doing something ‘different’. The multi-coloured swirls unfold behind you while you sit on the back of the boat, the winch starts, and suddenly you are off, legs waving as you gaze around. From here the translucent turquoise water is amazing; patches of shadow from the clouds only highlighting its colour. It looks as though you can touch the bottom – you can certainly dabble your toes as you come back to the boat after your 20-minute sail, just ask. bigskyparasail.co.nz For those preferring to remain on dry land, Taupo is a relatively flat spot in which to amble on a bicycle. Hire one from Rainbow Lodge and take the easy Great Lake Trail down from the harbour to Two Mile, Three Mile, Four Mile (spot a pattern?), all the way to Wharewaka Point lookout. On the way back, paddle in the hot water lapping the beaches – you’ll spot the right places from the steam rising from the shoreline – but be careful, as it can reach over 65°C. Along here numerous rental spots for paddleboards, canoes, and windsurfs dot the banks, and prices start from only a few bucks for half an ›› TNTDOWNUNDER.COM

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Soak in the hot springs

Paddle past Maori carvings

Tramping around the lake 68

hour. Bringing down a picnic and lazing an afternoon away on the lake is an ideal way to spend time. Taupo is also famed for something else other than adventure. Very cold water and abundant food sources mean that it is the home of clean and tasty trout. The only two native species – bully and kaoro – are uninteresting for sport and eating, so in the early 1890s rainbow and brown trout were introduced and since then the sport has thrived. It is illegal to buy and sell trout in New Zealand – the only way to eat it is to catch it yourself. Get out with Richard on White Striker, the boat he has owned for more than 20 years. Reaching up to 180ft deep, there’s plenty up for grabs making it an ideal location to fish for beginners. ‘Chardonnay fishing’, he calls it. Indeed, when he takes me out he treats me to a few glasses of Sauvignon Blanc in the sunshine. Although at only 12lb my catch doesn’t rival the largest brown trout ever caught in 1904 at 52lb, but I am the most popular person in the hostel that night. troutcatching.com On the lake you might spot Dave and his beautiful sailing boat, Fearless. Over two-and-a-half hours he will take you to Acacia Bay, past the ‘sleeping lady’ silhouette forged by the range of Mt Tauhara, out to contemporary Maori carvings. Designed and etched by Matahi Whakataka-Brightwell in the 1970s, the 10m-high carvings depict Ngatoroirangi – the legendary Maori navigator who first led his people to the area – and smaller Celtic-inspired carvings depicting wind and a mermaid. When the wind is in the sails and the sun is setting, with a beer or wine in the hand, it is a pretty magical evening. And at only $35 (for life!) anyone can come back again, as long as they bring a bottle or biscuits. Bargain! sailfearless.co.nz You can’t come to this part of the world without doing a bit of tramping. It’s easy to get from Taupo to the Tongariro Crossing, but I recommend Adventure HQ, mainly because Paul, the owner and driver, gives me lots of Dairy Milk to appease my mood when lost walkers hold us up. Notoriously one of the world’s best walks, and housed in the Tongariro National Park, the 19km track takes you up rocky crags and down sandy slopes, across stony paths and over narrow ridges, over vast dead spaces and dense forest. The variety of landscape is startling, as is the beauty. The Emerald Lake remains one of those travel images etched on my brain, bright and deep from above, and the idea of traversing a live volcano is something that takes a while to accept, and delight in. Billowing smoke, sulphur aroma from the geothermal pools and wafting dust help. The last major eruption was in November 2012, when the Te Maori crater started to gas. No one was hurt, but passing the point, there is still a cloud of gas and steam being emitted from the fumaroles. For something only 19km long, it’s surprisingly tough, as these tectonic beasts tend to be, and a huge achievement. adventurehq.co.nz

Photos: Destination Great Lake Taupo, Sail Fearless & Blackcurrant Backpackers, Big Sky Parasail

NZTRIP

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AUCKLAND 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.

DO THIS

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 ever lived and experience a Maori cultural show. 09 309 0443, aucklandmuseum.com

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 Auckland Airport Kiwi Hotel 150 McKenzie Road, Mangere. 09 256 0046, kiwiairporthotel.co.nz Airport Skyway Lodge Backpackers (BBH) 30 Kirkbride Road, Mangere. 09 275 4443, skywaylodge.co.nz Auckland International Backpackers 2 Churton St, Parnell. +64358 4584, aucklandinternationalbp.com

Auckland Zoo See kiwi birds in the nocturnal house and over 900 animals. 09 360 3800, aucklandzoo.co.nz

WAITANGI DAY February 6 marks Waitangi Day, New Zealand’s national day, to celebrate the signing of the country’s founding document in 1840. There are events all over, but Waitangi itself is the epicentre. waitangi.org.nz

Waitangi, North Island

BK Hostel (BBH) 3 Mercury Ln, Central. 09 307 0052 bkhostel.co.nz

Queen Street Backpackers 4 Fort St. 09 373 3471, qsb.co.nz

Borders Beyond 8 Nixon St, Grey Lynn. 09 360 9880, bordersbeyond.co.nz

Uenuku Lodge (BBH) 217 Ponsonby Rd, Ponsonby. 09 378 8990, uenukulodge.co.nz

City Garden Lodge (BBH) 25 St Georges Bay Rd, Parnell. 09 302 0880 citygardenlodge.co.nz

Surf ‘n’ Snow Backpackers 102 Albert St. 09 363 8889, surfandsnow.co.nz

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

Brown Kiwi (BBH) 7 Prosford St, Ponsonby. 09 378 0191, brownkiwi.co.nz

Freemans Backpackers (BBH) 65 Wellington Street. 09 376 5046 freemanbackpackers.co.nz Freinz Backpackers (BBH) 27-31 Vitoria St. East. 09 307 6437 frienz.com Nomads Auckland 16-20 Fort St. 09 300 9999, nomadshostels.com Jandal Palace (BBH) 38 Glenesk Rd, RD2. 09 812 8381, pihabeachstay.co.nz JJ House (BBH) 4 MacMurray Road. 09 214 9791 jjhouse.co.nz

KR City Travellers (BBH) 146 Karangahape Rd. 09 377 6027, kroadcitytravellers.co.nz Verandahs (BBH) 6 Hopetown St. 09 360 4180, verandahs.co.nz YHA Auckland City 18 Liverpool St. 09 309 2802, yha.co.nz YHA Auckland International 5 Turner St. 09 302 8200, yha.co.nz

AUCKLAND DO

Kiwi International Hotel 411 Queen St. 0800 100 411, kiwihotel.co.nz

Explorer Bus Sightseeing around Auckland, 0800 439 756 explorerbus.co.nz

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

Oaklands Lodge (BBH) 5a Oaklands Rd, Mt Eden. 09 638 6545, oaklands.co.nz

Base Backpackers Auckland 229 Queen St. 09 358 4877, stayatbase.com

Ponsonby Backpackers 2 Franklin Rd, Ponsonby. 09 360 1311, ponsonby-backpackers.co.nz

Bamber House (BBH) 22 View Rd, Mt Eden. 09 623 4267, bamberhouse.co.nz

Princeton Backpackers 30 Symonds St. 09 963 8300, princeton.net.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

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. 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 Ponsonby West of the city, explore Victorian architecture and narrow streets with cafés, bars, clothes shops, art galleries and some lively nightlife.

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cruises to Hauraki Gulf islands, with all-day passes and hop-on, hop-off options. fullers.co.nz 09 367 9111, Pride of Auckland The Pride of Auckland operates an impressive fleet of large, purpose-built yachts on the 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. fullers.co.nz 09 367 9111, Awesome Adventures Three-day Bay of Islands tours. 0800 658 058, awesomenz.com

Beaches Auckland is surrounded by great beaches, including Judges Queen Street Bay, Kohimarama, Okahu Bay, Auckland’s main boulevard with St Heliers Bay and popular shops, cafés and restaurants. Mission Bay. Whale & Dolphin Safari Aotea Square Markets See whales and dolphins from Every Friday and Saturday at Auckland’s doorstep. The Aotea Square, Queen St. NZ Hauraki Gulf is considered one fashion labels, retro gear, foods, of the most biologically and Pacific-style crafts, jewellery geographically diverse marine and furniture, 09 309 2677, parks in the world. See the-edge.co.nz dolphins, whales, sea birds and/ or even penguins. Dolphins are Victoria Park Market viewed on over 90% and whales 3km from the CBD, an outdoor on 75% of trips. Departs daily market with fruit, veggies, from the Auckland Viaduct. books, clothes and handicrafts. Dolphin viewing guaranteed. 09 357 6032, exploregroup.co.nz GREAT BARRIER Fullers Cruises This unique island destination is Inner harbour cruises and longer dominated by a native forest a

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network of criss-crossing tracks. thebarrier.co.nz Orama Oasis Karaka Bay Rd, 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. fullers.co.nz 09 367 9111, 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.

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 Coastal Cow Backpackers (BBH) 299 Molesworth Drive, Mangawai Heads 09 431 5246, mangawhaibackpackers.com Little Earth Lodge (BBH) 85 Abbey Caves Road, 09 430 6562, littleearthlodge.co.nz Whangarei Falls Backpacker (BBH) 12 Ngunguru Rd, Whareora, 09 437 0609, whangareifalls.co.nz YHA Whangarei Manaakitanga 52 Punga Grove Ave, 09 438 8954, yha.co.nz

WHANGAREI DO

Hekerua Lodge Backpackers (BBH) 11 Hekerua Rd, Oneroa, 09 372 8990, hekerualodge.co.nz

Dive! Tutukaka Poor Knights Islands dives, plus tours with kayaking, cave explorations, snorkelling, swimming, sea mammalspotting.

Kina Backpackers 421 Seaview Road, Onetangi, 09 372 8971, kinabackpackers.co.nz

PAIHIA

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

HENDERSON BAY North Wind Lodge Backpackers 88 Otaipango Road, RD4, 09 409 8515 northwind.co.nz

HIBISCUS COAST Orewa Beach Hillary Square, Orewa 09 426 2638, orewabeach.co.nz Pillows Backpackers Lodge (BBH) 412 Hibiscus Coast Highway, 0800 426 6338, pillows.co.nz

SAIL ROCK

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 Cap’n Bob’s Beach House (BBH) 44 Davis Crescent, 09 402 8668, capnbobs.co.nz Centabay Lodge (BBH) 27 Selwyn Rd, 09 402 7466, centabay.co.nz

Hen & Chickens Island and Sail Rock These offshore areas offer great sailing and diving. Boat trips leave from the area daily.

Admirals View Motel 2 MacMurray Rd, 09 402 6236, admiralviewlodge.co.nz

Waipu Wanderer (BBH) 25 St Marys Rd, 09 432 0532 waipu-hostel.co.nz

Mousetrap (BBH) 11 Kings Rd, 09 402 8182, mousetrap.co.nz

Peppertree Lodge 15 Kings Rd, 09 402 6122, peppertree.co.nz Pickled Parrot Backpackers (BBH) Grey’s Lane, 09 402 6222, pickledparrot.co.nz Saltwater Lodge (BBH) 14 Kings Rd, 09 402 7075, saltwaterlodge.co.nz Seabeds (BBH) 46 Davis Cres, 09 402-5567 seabeds.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

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.

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

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

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

Sunseeker Lodge (BBH) 12 Old Hospital Rd, 09 405 0496, sunseekerlodge.co.nz

KARIKARI PENIN The Rusty Anchor 1 Tokerau Beach Rd, 09 406 7141, rustyanchor.hostel.com

RUSSELL STAY

KAITAIA

Wainui Lodge (BBH) 92D Te Wahapu Rd, 09 403 8278, wainuilodge-russell-nz.com

The ideal starting point for Cape Reinga and Ninety Mile Beach. Pukenui Lodge Hotel Cnr SH1 & Pukenui Wharf Rd 09 409 8837, pukenuilodge.co.nz

Ferry Landing (BBH) 395 Aucks Rd, Okiato Point 09 403 7985, ferrylandingrussell.co.nz

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

Pipi Patch Backpackers 18 Kings Road, 09 403 7111.

KERIKERI

KAITAIA DO

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

Ancient Kauri Kingdom Giant kauri tree stumps are fashioned into furniture and other trinkets.

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

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

AHIPARA

Hideaway Lodge Wiroa Rd, 0800 562 746 kerikeri.co.nz

Kahoe Farms Hostel 1266 State Highway 10, 09 405 1804, kahoefarms.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

Relax a Lodge (BBH) 1574 Springbank Rd (SH10) 09 407 6989 relaxalodge.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

The Rainbow Warrior A monument to the noble but doomed Greenpeace ship, Rainbow Warrior, sits on the site of a Maori

Heading south, you’ll hit Hokianga Harbour and the quiet twin towns of Omapere and Opononi. The Koutu Boulders are worth a look. Hokianga Information 09 405 8869, hokianga.co.nz

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HOKIANGA STAY

DON’T MISS

Okopako Lodge (BBH) – Farm Hostel 140 Mountain Rd, Whirinaki, 09 405 8815, homepages.paradise.net.nz/ njandlv/

Te Awamutu District Museum 135 Roche St. 07 872 0085 tamuseum.org.nz

Globetrekkers Lodge (BBH) 281 State Highway 12, Omapere, 09 405 8183, globetrekkerslodge.com

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.

The Tree House Backpackers Lodge (BBH) 168 West Coast Rd, Motukaraka 09 405 5855, treehouse.co.nz

Another insane Kiwi adrenaline invention, don’t leave New Zealand without first getting chucked down a hill inside a massive bouncy ball, preferably accompanied by water. It costs from NZ$39. zorb.com

Rotorua, North Island

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

Corner Caro and Alexandra St, Hamilton, 07 839 3580 visithamilton.co.nz

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

DOC Office 73, Rostrevor St. 07 858 1000

HAMILTON STAY

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

Backpackers Central 846 Victoria Street, 07 839 1928, backpackerscentral.co.nz

Kaihu Farm 334 State Highway 12, Kaihu, 09 439 4004.

Central Green (BBH) 846 Victoria St, 07 839 1928, backpackerscentral.co.nz

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

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

HAMILTON NZ’s largest inland city and is known for its parks and gardens. Hamilton Visitor Centre

OTOROHANGA

ZORBING

DARGAVILLE 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.

Te Awamutu Info Centre 1 Gorst Ave, 07 871 3259, teawamutuinfo.com

CAMBRIDGE This very Olde English town with its town square and abundance of trees is in the heart of Waikato.

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

The region is famous for its horses and jetboating.

Otorohanga Visitor Info Centre 27 Turongo St, 07 873 8951, otorohanga.co.nz

Cambridge Info Centre Cnr Queen and Victoria Sts, 07 823 3456 cambridge.co.nz

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

RAGLAN

WAITOMO

One of New Zealand’s best-known surfing beaches, Raglan is situated 48km west of Hamilton.

Definitely one of the best adventure spots in New Zealand. There are a range of caving adventures here.

Raglan Information Centre 2 Wainui Rd, 07 825 7076, ragland.org.nz

Waitomo Caves Discovery Centre 21 Waitomo Caves Rd, 0800 474 839, waitomocaves.com

RAGLAN STAY Solscape Eco Retreat Backpackers (BBH) 611 Wainui Rd, 07 825 8268, solscape.co.nz Raglan Backpackers & Waterfront Lodge (BBH) 6 Wi Neera St, 07 825 0515, raglanbackpackers.co.nz Karioi Backpacker Lodge (VIP) & 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

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 Kiwi Cave Rafting (BBH) 95 Waitomo Caves Rd, 07 873 9149, caveraft.com

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, Piri Piri Cave, 30 minutes drive from Waitomo.

TE AWAMUTU

Rap Raft ‘n’ Rock Blackwater adventures combining abseiling, rafting, glowworms, caving and rockclimbing all in one five-hour adventure. 0800 228 372, caveraft.com

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.

The Legendary Black Water Rafting Co Cave tubing in the blackness of the Ruakuri Cave river. 585

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Waitomo Caves Rd, 07 878 6219, waitomo.com

TE KUITI Te Kuiti Information Centre Rora St, 07 878 8077. Dept of Conservation 78 Taupiri Street, 07 878 1080. Tiffany’s Cafe, 241 Rora St, 07 878 7640 Coromandel Top 10 Holiday Park 636-732 Rings Rd, 07 866 8830, coromandeltop10.co.nz Tui Lodge (BBH) 60 Whangapoua Rd, 07 866 8237, coromandeltuilodge.co.nz

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

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

COROMANDEL 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.

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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 Kuaotunu, 07 866 2988, black-jack.co.nz Colville Farm (BBH) 2140 Colville Road, Colville, 07 866 6820 Mahamudra Retreat Colville Rd, 07 866 6851 mahamudra.org.nz The Pinnacles Backpackers (BBH) 305 Main Road (SH25), 07 864 8448, pinnaclesbakpak.co.nz Lions Den (BBH) 126 Te Tiki St, 07 866 8157 ionsdenhostel.co.nz Tairua Backpackers (BBH) 200 Main Road, 07 864 8345, tairuabackpackers.com

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 NZ Surf n Stay (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

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 Holiday 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 Apple Tree Backpackers (BBH) 47 Maxwell Rd, 07 576 4001 appletreebackpackers.co.nz Harbourside City Backpackers 105 The Strand, 07 579 4066, backpacktauranga.co.nz Bell Lodge (BBH) 39 Bell St, Judea, 07 578 6344, bell-lodge.co.nz Just The Ducks Nuts Backpackers 6 Vale St, 07 576 1366, justtheducksnuts.co.nz Kingfisher Backpackers Lodge (BBH) 122b Word Road, 07 552 0388, kingfisher-backpack.co.nz Loft 109 (BBH) 8/109 Devonport Rd, 07 579 5638, loft109.co.nz Seagulls Guesthouse (BBH) 12 Hinau Street, 07 574 2099, seagullsguesthouse.co.nz

Baywatch Backpackers (VIP) 22 The Esplanade, 07 866 5481, whitianga.co.nz/baywatch

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

Cathedral Cove Lodge 41 Harsant Ave, Hahei Beach, 07 866 3889, cathedralcove.co.nz

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

TAURANGA DO Butler’s Swim With Dolphins 101 Te Awanui Dr, 0508 288 537 Waimarino Adventure Park 07 576 4233, waimarino.com Coyote Bar and Restaurant 107 The Strand, 07 578 8968.

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

TE PUKE STAY Hairy Berry Backpacker Hostel 2 No One Rd, Te Puke, 07 573 8015, work@hairyberrynz.com Kiwi Corral Backpackers 26 Young Road, 07 573 4530, kiwicorral.co.nz Blue Tide Beachfront Retreat 7 Te Awhe Rd, Maketu Beach, 07 533 2033, bluetides.co.nz

TE PUKE DO Kiwifruit Country Young Rd, 07 573 6340, kiwifruitcountry.co.nz 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 Otapawa Farmstay (BBH) 255 Haunui Road, 06 376 7250 otapawafarmstay.co.nz/ backpackers

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 Astray Motel & Backpackers 1202 Pukuatua St, 07 348 1200, astray.co.nz Base Backpackers Rotorua 1286 Arawa St, 07 348 8636, stayatbase.com Blarney’s Rock Backpackers 1210 Tutanekai St, 07 343 7904, blarneysrock.com Cactus Jack Backpackers 1210 Haupapa St, 0800 122 228 cactusjackbackpackers.com Crash Palace Backpackers 1271 Hinemaru St, 07 348 842, crashpalace.co.nz Funky Green Voyager (BBH) 4 Union St, 07 346-1754, funkygreenvoyager.co.nz Kiwipaka 60 Tarewa Rd, 07 347 0931, kiwipaka.co.nz Planet Nomad Backpackers 1080 Eruera St, 07 350 2550, rotoruaplanetbackpackers.co.nz Oasis Hostel/Backpackers 33A Tarewa Rd, 07 343 6563, oasishostel.co.nz

Whakatane Hotel 79 The Strand, 07 307 1670

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

The Windsor 10 Merritt St, Whakatane, 07 308 8040, windsorlodge-backpackers.co.nz

Rotorua Downtown Backpackers (BBH) 1193 Fenton St, 07 347 1170, rotorua-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

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 Waikite Hot Pools Natural hot spring water bathing. Provides private spas, BBQ area and campground facilities, 20 minutes south of Rotorua. hotpools.co.nz Waimangu Volcanic Valley The location of the Pink and White Terraces which were destroyed in the 1886 volcanic eruption. waimangu.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 Zorb Rotorua Get harnessed inside the perspex Zorb before rolling head-over-heels downhill, 07 357 5100, zorb.com

MAORI CULTURE

Spa Lodge Backpackers (BBH) 1221 Amohau Street, 07 348 3486, spalodge.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.

YHA Rotorua 1278 Haupapa St, 07 349 4088, yha.co.nz

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

ROTORUA DO 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

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

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NORTHISLAND 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 Blackcurrant Backpackers (BBH) 20 Taniwha St, 07 378 9292, blackcurrantbp.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, budgetaccommodation taupo.co.nz Sportsman Lodge Backpackers Retreat 15 Taupahi Rd, 0800 366 208, sportsmanslodge.co.nz Base Taupo 7 Tuwharetoa St, 07 377 4464, stayatbase.com 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 Hukafalls Jet Jetboating by the falls, 0800 485 2538, hukafallsjet.com Rock ‘n’ Ropes Ropes Courses including the trapeze and Giant Swing. At Crazy Catz on Highway 5. 0800 244 508, rocknropes.co.nz Taupo Bungy Bungy from a platform 47m above the Waikato River. 202 Spa Rd. 0800 888 408, taupobungy.com 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 A Plus Samurai Lodge 41 Iwiheke Place, 07 386 8979, tongariro-hostel.co.nz Asure Parklands Motorlodge Cnr Arahori St & State Hwy 1, 07 386 7515, parklandsmotorlodge.co.nz Extreme Backpackers 26 Ngawaka Place, 07 386 8949, extremebackpackers.co.nz Judges Pool Motel 92 Taupahi Rd, 07 386 7892, judgepoolmotel.co.nz

BOOK NOW! Turangi Kiwi Holiday Park 13 Te Reiti Tamara Grove, 07 386 8754, turangiholidaypark.co.nz

TONGARIRO Adventure Lodge & Motel (VIP) Carroll Street, National Park, 07 892 2991, adventurenationalpark.co.nz The Crossing Backpackers Erua Rd East, 07 892 2894, thecrossingbackpackers.co.nz daKune Lodge (BBH) 42 Park Ave, Ohakune 06 385 8448, dakunelodge.co.nz Howards Mountain Lodge (BBH) 43 Carroll St, National Park, 07 892 2827, howardslodge.co.nz Skotel Alpine Resort Whakapapa Village, 07 892 3715, skotel.co.nz National Park Backpackers YHA (BBH) 4 Findlay St. The hostel runs transport to the Tongariro Crossing, 07 892 2870, npbp.co.nz Pipers Lodge 18 Millar St, National Park Village, 07 8922 777, piperslodge.co.nz Plateau Lodge 17 Caroll St, National Park Village, 07 8922 993, plateaulodge.co.nz Ski Haus (BBH) Carroll St, McKenzie St, 07 892 2854, skihaus.co.nz Station Lodge (BBH) 60 Thames Street, The Junction, Ohakune, 06 385 8797, stationlodge.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.

The Lazy Dog 3 Rangipoia Place, 07 386 0317, lazydogbackpackers.co.nz

Rangitikei Farmstay 422 Makuhou Rd, 06 327 4495, rangitikeifarmstay.govt.nz

Settlers Motel 24 Arahori St, 07 386 7745, settlersmotelturangi.co.nz

River Valley Dorms Makuhou Rd 06 388 1444, rivervalley.co.nz

RANGITIKEI DO

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NAPIER STAY

Mokai Gravity Canyon Extreme flying fox, bridge swing and bungy jump. 0800 802 864

Aqua Lodge (BBH) 53 Nelson Cres, 06 835 4523, bbh.co.nz

River Valley Rafting and horse trekking. 06 388 1444, thelodge@rivervalley.co.nz

Archie’s Bunker (BBH) 15 Herschell Street, 06 833 7990, archiesbunker.co.nz

OPOTIKI Opotiki Information Centre Cnr St John and Elliot Sts, 07 315 3031 opotikinz.com Central Oasis Backpackers 30 King St, 07 315 5165, centraloasis@hotmail.com Fruit Forest Studio 197 Omarumutu Rd, 07 315 8143, fruitforest.co.nz Opotiki Beach House (BBH) 7 Appleton Road, 07 315 5117 opotikibeachhouse.co.nz

EAST CAPE

The Art House (BBH) 259 Marine Parade, 06 835 5575, arthousenapier.co.nz Blue Water Lodge (BBH) 471 Marine Parade, 06 835 8593, arthousenapier.co.nz Criterion Art Deco Backpackers (VIP, Roamfree) 48 Emerson St, 06 835 2059, criterionartdeco.co.nz Stable Lodge Backpackers (BBH) 370 Hastings Street, 06 835 6242, bluewaterlodge.co.nz Toad Hall Backpackers (BBH) 11 Shakespeare Road, 06 835 5555, toadhall.co.nz

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.

Waterfront Lodge & Backpackers 217 Marine Pd, 06 835 3429, napierbackpackers.co.nz

Maraehako Bay Retreat SH35, Whanarua Bay, 07 325 2648. maraehako.co.nz

YHA Napier 277 Marine Parade, 06 835 7039, yha.co.nz

Stranded in Paradise (BBH) 21 Potae Street, 06 864 5870, stranded-in-paradise.net Wainui Beach Motel 34 Wairere Rd, 06 868 5882, wainuibeachmotel.co.nz

GISBORNE Flying Nun Backpackers (BBH) 147 Roebuck Rd, 06 868 0461, flynun.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

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, a1backpackers.co.nz Glenross Lodge (BBH) Route 52, Rakaunui, 06 376 7288, tararua.net/glenross Lochlea Farmstay 344 Lake Rd, Wanstead, +6468554816 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, ajs.backpackerslodge.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 taranaki-bakpak.co.nz

NEW PLYMOUTH

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people, New Zealand’s most interesting city.

FASCINATING

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

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

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

WELLY STAY Barnacles Seaside Inn (BBH) 3 Marine Parade. 04 902 5856 seasideyha.co.nz

MUSEUM OF NEW ZEALAND Known locally as Te Papa Tongarewa, which broadly translates as “the place of treasures of this land”, this museum in Wellington contains just that. Using a ‘bicultural’ approach to its organisation and curating, it responds to and represents the two world views of the Tangata Whenua (the first people of the land) and Tangata Tiriti (people living in New Zealand by right of the treaty). Filled with artefacts and exhibitions that demonstrate the fascinating history, geology and culture of the country, it truly is one of the highlights for many of the country’s visitors. tepapa.govt.nz 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 EcoInn (BBH) 671 Kent Rd, between Egmont Village and New Plymouth on SH3. 06 752 2765 ecoinnovation. co.nz/t-Accommodation.aspx 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, seasprayhouse.co.nz

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

1 Mount View Road, 06 343 333 stayplace.co.nz YHA Whanganui 2 Plymouth St, 06 348 2301, yha.co.nz Tamara Backpackers Lodge (BBH) 24 Somme Pde, 06 347 6300, tamaralodge.com Whanganui National Park The major attraction is the Whanganui River, snaking through picturesque scenery. Explore with a kayak or riverboat tour.

PALMERSTON NTH

Sunflower Lodge (BBH) 33 Timandra St, 06 758, 2842 sunflowerlodge.co.nz

Wheatly Downs Farmstay Backpackers (BBH) 484 Ararata Rd, Hawera, 06 278 6523, mttaranaki.co.nz/retreat/ wheatly_downs_farmstay/

MT TARANAKI Stratford Heritage Lodge 103 Miranda St,

WHANGANUI College House 42b Campbell Street, 021 852 100 42b.co.nz Hikurangi Stay Place

Moana Lodge (BBH) 49 Moana Road. 04 233 2010 lmoana-lodge-accommodation. co.nz Wellywood Backpackers 58 Tory St, 04 381 3899, wellywoodbackpackers.co.nz

Rowena’s Lodge 115 Brougham St. 04 385 7872, wellingtonbackpackers.co.nz

Palmerston North Visitor Centre The Square, 06 350 1922, manawatunz.co.nz Department of Conservation Office 717 Tremaine Ave, 06 350 9700 Grandma’s Place (BBH) 146 Grey St, 06 358 6928, grandmas-place.com Pepper Tree Hostel (BBH) 121 Grey St, 06 355 4054, peppertreehostel.co.nz

WELLINGTON The nation’s capital is to many

Museum of Wellington City & Sea Queens Wharf, 04 472 8904

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

Rosemere Backpackers (BBH) 6 MacDonald Crescent. 04 384 3041, backpackerswellington.co.nz

SOUTH TARANAKI

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

Hotel Waterloo & Backpackers (BBH) 1 Bunny St. 04 473 8482 hotelwaterloo.co.nz

Department of Conservation Office 74 Ingestre St, 06 348 8475

Information South Taranaki 55 High St, Hawera, 0800 111 323, southtaranaki.com

Mount Victoria The views are breathtaking. It’s damn windy so make sure you’re wearing heavy shoes. Walk, drive or bus it.

Cambridge Hotel (BBH) 28 Cambridge Tce. 04 385 8829, cambridgehotel.co.nz

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

Ducks & Drakes Backpackers (BBH) 48 Lemon St, 06 758 0404 ducksanddrakes.co.nz

PLYMOUTH DO

Base Wellington 21-23 Cambridge Tce. 04 801 5666 stayatbase.com

Wanganui Information Centre 31 Taupo Quay, Whanganui, 06 349 0508, wanganui.com

Worldwide Backpackers (BBH) 291 The Terrace. 04 802 5590, worldwidenz.co.nz YHA Wellington City 292 Wakefield St. 04 801 7280 yha.co.nz

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 Wellington Zoo Located in Newtown and home to a wide variety of weird and wonderful animal and bird life, 04 381 6755 Harbour cruises The harbour is a handsome thing and the best way to fully appreciate its beauty is by boat.

The Setup (BBH) Level 3/15, Dixon Street, Te Aro 04 802 4779 setupdixon.co.nz Wild Zebra Backpackers (BBH) 58 Tory Street. wellingtonbackpacker.com

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 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 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 Abba Lodge (BBH) 11 Awaroa Bay, 03 528 8758, abbalodge.co.nz 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 Aurora Backpackers 161-163 Trafalger Square. 03 929 5553, aurorabackpackers.co.nz

Tramways Hotel Nelson 66 Trafalgar St, 03 548 7049, tramwayshotel.co.nz Honey Suckle House (BBH) 125 Tasman St. 03 548 7576 honeysucklehouse. weebly.com/ 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 The Prince Albert Backpackers (BBH) 113 Nile St. 03 548 8477 theprincealbert.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 Shortbread Cottage (BBH) 33 Trafalgar St. 03 546 6681 shortbreadcottage.co.nz Tasman Bay Backpacker Hostel 10 Weka St. 03 548 7950, tasmanbaybackpackers.co.nz Trampers Rest (BBH) 31 Alton St. 03 545 7477 Idesia B&B 14 Idesia Grove, Richmond, 03 544 0409 YHA Nelson 59 Rutherford St, 03 545 9988, yha.co.nz

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

Beach Hostel (BBH) 25 Muritai St. 03 548 6817, nelsonbeachhostel.50megs.com The Bug (BBH) 226 Vanguard St. 03 539 4227 thebug.co.nz Villa by the Sea (BBH) 252 Haven Rd. 03 545 8365, villabythesea.co.nz Footprints by the Sea 31 Beach Rd, Tahuna Beach. 03 546 5441, footprints.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

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

MOTUEKA 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, edensedge.co.nz Motueka Garden Motel 71 King Edward St, 0800 101 911, motmotel.co.nz Hat Trick Lodge Backpackers 25 Wallace St. 03 528 5353, hattricklodge.co.nz Laughing Kiwi (BBH) 310 High St. 03 528 9229, laughingkiwi.co.nz Old Macdonald’s Farm Holiday Park 03 527 8288, oldmacs.co.nz The White Elephant (BBH) 55 Whakarewa St. 03 528 6208, whiteelephant.co.nz Equestrian Lodge Motel 2 Avalon Ct, 03 528 9369

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 Annie’s Nirvana Lodge (BBH, YHA) 25 Motupipi St. 03 525 8766, nirvanalodge.co.nz Aquapackers Anchorage Bay, Marahau, Abel Tasman National

follow us on Park. 0800 430 744, aquapackers.co.nz Golden Bay Barefoot Backpackers (BBH) 114 Commercial St. 03 525 7005, bare-foot.co.nz Kiwiana (BBH) 73 Motuipipi St. 03 525 7676 kiwianabackpackers.co.nz Kanuka Ridge (BBH) 21 Moss Rd, Marahau, Abel Tasman National Park. 03 527 8435, abeltasmanbackpackers.co.nz The Rocks chalets 2086 Takaka Valley Hwy, 03 525 8096, travelbug.co.nz River Inn Golden Bay. 03 525 9425 riverinn.co.nz Shambhala (BBH) 1234 Takaka-Collingwood Highway. 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, theinnlet.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 401 (BBH) 401 Anakiwa Rd. 03 574 1388, anakiwabackpackers.co.nz Copperbeech (BBH) 73 Maxwell Rd. 03 579 2246, copperbeechbackpackers@hotmail. com Hopewell (BBH) Kenepuru Rd. 03 573 4341, hopewell.co.nz The Partage Resort Hotel Kenepuru Sound. 0800 275 373, portage.co.nz

@tnt_downunder Watson Way Backpackers 56 High Street 03 572 8228 watsonswaylodge.com

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

PICTON STAY Atlantis Backpackers (BBH) 42 London Quay, 03 573 7390, atlantishostel.co.nz The Buccaneer Lodge 314 Waikawa Rd, 03 573 5002, buccaneerlodge.co.nz The Jugglers Rest (BBH) 8 Canterbury St. 03 573 5570, jugglersrest.com Fat Cod Backpackers 9 Auckland St, 03 573 7788, fatcodbackpackers.co.nz Sequoia Lodge (BBH, VIP) 3 Nelson Sq. 03 573 8399, sequoialodge.co.nz Atlantis Backpackers 42 London Quay, 03 573 7390, atlantisbackpackers.co.nz The Villa (BBH) 34 Auckland St. 03 573 6598, thevilla.co.nz Tombstone Backpackers (BBH) 16 Gravesend Place. 03 573 7116, tombstonebp.co.nz Parklands Marina Holiday Park 10 Beach Rd, 03 573 6343, parktostay.co.nz

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

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

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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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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 Koanui Lodge & Backpackers (BBH) 33 Main St. 03 578 7487, koanui.co.nz The Grapevine (BBH) 29 Park Terrace, 03 578 6062, thegrapevine.co.nz Arrow Backpackers (BBH) 107 Budge St, 03 577 9857, bbh.co.nz Leeways Backpackers (BBH) 33 Lansdowne St, 03 579 2213, leeways.byethost22.com

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 Albatross Backpacker Inn (BBH) 1 Torquay St. 03 319 6090, albatross-kaikoura.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

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 Dorset House (BBH) 1 Dorset St, 03 366 8268, dorset.co.nz Celtic Backpackers (BBH) 12 Dublin St, 03 377 4417, celticbackpackers.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 (BBH) 26 Nayland St. 03 326 6609 jackinthegreen.co.nz# Point Break Backpackers 6 Union Street. 03 388 2050 pointbreakbackpackers.co.nz The Old Countryhouse (BBH) 437 Gloucester St. 03 381 5504 oldcountryhousenz.com Tranquil Lodge 440 Manchester St. 03 366 6500 tranquil-lodge.co.nz Rucksacker Backpacker Hostel (BBH) 70 Bealey Ave. 03 377 7931, rucksacker.com The Sanctuary (BBH) 126 Main Road, Arther’s Pass National Park 03 942 2230, thesanctuary.co.nz Vagabond Backpackers (BBH) 232 Worcester St. 03 379 9677 vagabondhostel.com

C’CHURCH DO Black Cat Cruises Wildlife Cruises on Lyttelton Harbour. Free shuttle bus from Christchurch, 03 328 9078. blackcat.co.nz Skydivingnz.com Skydiving and training courses, 0800 697 593

03 304 1013

skydivingnz.com

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

Aoraki Balloon Safaris Hot air ballooning, 03 302 8172, nzballooning.com

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

LEWIS PASS

BANKS PENINSULA Banks Peninsula is a beautiful region with a stunning coastline chock full of mountains and wildlife. The two harbours of Akaroa and Lyttelton are craters of a once majestic volcano.

LYTTELTON

HANMER STAY

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

Akaroa French Connection Tours and shuttle bus, 0800 800 575

AKAROA STAY Bon Accord Backpackers (BBH) 57 Rue Lavaud. 03 304 7782, bon-accord.co.nz Chez La Mer (BBH) 50 Rue Lavaud. 03 304 7024, chezlamer.co.nz Double Dutch (BBH) 32 Chorlton Road, Okains Bay. 03 304 7229, doubledutch.co.nz Halfmoon Cottage (BBH) SH25 Barrys Bay. 03 304 5050, halfmoon.co.nz Onuku Farm Hostel (BBH) 03 304 7066, onuku.co.nz

AKAROA DO Akaroa Museum 71 Rue Lavard,

HANMER SPRINGS Hanmer Springs boasts the Hanmer 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.

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

Lyttelton Information Centre 20 Oxford St, 03 328 9093

Akaroa Shuttle Christchurch to Akaroa buses. 0800 500 929

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

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.

Akaroa Information Centre 80 Rue Lavaud, 03 304 8600

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

Hanmer Backpackers 41 Conical Hill Rd. 03 315 7196, www.hanmerbackpackers.co.nz Kakapo Lodge (YHA) 14 Amuri Avenue. 03 315 7472, kakapolodge.co.nz Jack in the Green 3 Devon St. 03 315 5111, jackinthegreen.co.nz Waipara Sleepers (BBH) 12 Glenmark Dr, Waipara. 03 314 6003, waiparasleepers.co.nz

CASTLE HILL Gateway to the Craigieburn Range. Chill Adventures Multi-mountain snow passes. chillout.co.nz Springfield Hotel State Highway 73, Springfield. 03 318 4812, springfieldhotel.co.nz

ARTHUR’S PASS This township is the HQ for the magnificent national park which offers tramping expeditions to skiing. National Park Visitor Centre 03 318 9211 Mountain House (BBH) Main Road, Arthur’s Pass National Park. 03 318 9258 trampers.co.nz Rata Lodge Backpackers (BBH) State Highway 73, Otira Arthur’s Pass National Park, 03 738 2822 rata-lodge.co.nz

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

Rawhiti House (BBH) 27 Hewlings St. 03 693 8252 rawhitibackpackers.co.nz

METHVEN 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. Methven i-SITE Visitor Centre 160 Main St, Methven, 03 302 8955, NZ Ski.com Info on Coronet Peak, the Remarkables and Mt Hutt. nzski.com

METHVEN STAY Brinkley Resort 43 Barkers Rd, Mt Hutt, 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 11 Alford St. 0800 638 483, pinedalelodge.co.nz Redwood Lodge (BBH) 3 Wayne Place. 03 302 8964, snowboardnz.com Skiwi House 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. 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

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

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 YHA Lake Tekapo 3 Simpson Lane. 03 680 6857, yha.co.nz

MT COOK Mt Cook National Park is part of a World Heritage area that forms one of the most amazing sights in NZ. The showcase is Mt Cook (Aoraki). NZ’s greatest climber Sir Edmund Hillary used it for practice before conquering Mt Everest, but Mt Cook has claimed the lives of more than 160 people. Discuss climbing plans with 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

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.

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.

Buller Gorge Swingbridge Adventure and Heritage Park 03 523 9809, bullergorge.co.nz

Visitor Information Herbert and Mackay Sts, 03 768 5101

The Lazy Cow Accommodation (BBH) 37 Waller St. 03 523 9451, thelazycownz.wordpress.com

REEFTON The centrepiece of the town is Victoria Forest Park, the largest forest park in New Zealand. Reefton Visitor Centre 67 Broadway, 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 Bazil’s Hostel (VIP) 54/56 Russell St. 03 789 6410, bazils.co.nz Beaconstone Eco Lodge Birds Ferry Road Charleston 027 431 0491 beconstoneecolodge.co.nz The Old Slaughterhouse (BBH) Dean Creek, RD1, Highway 67, Hector 03 782 8333 oldslaughterhouse.co.nz TripInn (BBH) 72 Queen St. 03 789 7367 tripinn.co.nz

WEST COAST

PAPAROA NP

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.

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.

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.

Peel Forest Horse Trekking Wilderness adventures trekking through some gorgeous country, 03 696 3703, peelforesthorsetrekking.co.nz

Rongo Backpackers 03 782 6667, rongobackpackers.com

Rangitata Rafts Peel Forest, 0800 251 251 rafts.co.nz

With crazy terrain skewed by mining and earthquakes, one of the major attractions of Murchison is its

MURCHISON

BOOK NOW!

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

@tnt_downunder 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

TranzAlpine Scenic railway from Christchurch to Greymouth, travelling through Canterbury Plains and the Alps. Departs 9am every morning. 0800 872 467 tranzscenic.co.nz

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.

GREYMOUTH STAY

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.

Duke Hostel (BBH) 27 Guiness St. 03 768 9470 duke.co.nz Global Village (BBH) 42-54 Cowper St, 03 768 7272, globalvillagebackpackers.co.nz Noahs Ark Backpackers (BBH) 16 Chapel St, 03 768 4868, noahs.co.nz Greymouth KIWI Holiday Park & Motel 318 Main South Rd, 03 762 6768, southbeach.co.nz Kainga-RA YHA 15 Alexander St, Ph: (03) 768 4951, yha.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 Birdsong (BBH) 124 SH6, 03 755 7179 birdsong.co.nz Drifting Sands Backpackers (BBH) 197 Revell St, driftingsands.kiwi Mountain Jade Backpackers (BBH) 41 Weld St, 03 755 5185, mountainjadebackpackers.co.nz Riverview Cottage & Cabins (BBH) 154 Kaniere Rd, 03 755 7440 riverviewcottageandcabins.co.nz Stumpers Accommodation 2 Weld St, 03 755 6154, stumpers.co.nz

HOKITIKA DO Whitewater Kayaking hokitika.org

OKARITO

Okarito Nature Tours 03 753 4014, okarito.co.nz Okarito Beach House Close to Franz Josef Glacier, 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: Sir Cendrics (VIP, BBH) 8-10 Cron St, 0800 728 372, sircedrics.co.nz Glow Worm Cottages (BBH) 27 Cron St, 0800 151 027, glowwormcottages@xtra.co.nz Montrose Lodge (BBH) 9 Cron St, 03 752 0188, montroselodge.co.nz Rainforest Retreat (VIP) Cron St, 0800 873 346 rainforestretreat.co.nz YHA Franz Josef 2-4 Cron St, 03 752 0754, yha.co.nz

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

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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. DOC Visitor Centre State Hwy 6, 03 752 0796

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

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

Holly’s Backpackers (BBH) 71 Upton St, 03 443 8187, hollys-backpacker.co.nz

LAKE HAWEA

Fox Glacier Inn 03 751 0088 foxglacierinn.co.nz

LHH (BBH) 1 Capell Ave, 03 443 1224, lakehawea.co.nz

Thirty-five kilometres long and more than 400m deep, Lake Hawea is a great source of salmon and rainbow trout.

Ivory Towers (BBH) 03 751 0838, ivorytowerslodge.co.nz

Mountain View Backpackers (BBH) 7 Russell St, 0800 112 201, wanakabackpackers.co.nz

FOX STAY

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, wildernessaccommodation.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

Matterhorn South (BBH) 56 Brownston St, 03 443 1119, matterhornsouth.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 Adventure Consultants Mountaineering instruction courses and guided ascents, 03 443 8711, adventure.co.nz Aspiring Guides Guided mountain climbing and ice climbing instruction courses, 03 443 9422, aspiringguides.com 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

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 Queenstown Travel & Visitor Centre Corner of Shotover & Camp Sts, 03 442 4100

Q’TOWN STAY Alpine Lodge (BBH) 13 Gorge Rd. 03 442 7220, alpinelodgebackpackers.co.nz 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 (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

The Silver Demon Aerobatic flights. 03 443 4043, silverdemon.co.nz

Cardrona Alpine Resort Between Queenstown and Wanaka. 03 443 7341, cardrona.com

Skydive Lake Wanaka Freefall from 12,000 or 15,000ft with views of NZ’s highest mountains. 0800 786 877, skydivenz.com

Deco Backpackers (VIP, BBH) 52 Man St. 03 442 7384, decobackpackers.co.nz Flaming Kiwi Backpackers (BBH)

39 Robins Rd. 03 442 5494, flamingkiwi.co.nz

fergburger.com

Hippo Lodge (BBH) 4 Anderson Hts. 03 442 5785, hippolodge.co.nz

Flight Park Tandem Paragliding Operates from Coronet Peak 0800 467 325, tandemparagliding.com

The Last Resort Queenstown (BBH) 6 Memorial St. 03 442 4320, tlrqtn.com

Haka Adventure Snow Tours 03 980 4250, hakatours.com Mad Dog River Boarding River sledging & other actionpacked water activities, 03 442 7797, riverboarding.co.nz

Nomads Queenstown 5-11 Church St. 03 441 3922, nomadshostels.com 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 rooms, dorm beds and selfcontained family cabins. 48 Hamilton Rd. 0800 746 396, 03 442 8273, pinewood.co.nz Southern Laughter: Sir Cedrics (BBH, VIP) 4 Isle St. 0800 441 8828, sircedrics.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

Fat Tyre Adventure Mountain biking/heli biking, 0800 328 897, fat-tyre.co.nz Fergburger Best burgers in NZ. Shotover St,

NZ Ski.com Info on Coronet Peak, the Remarkables and Mt Hutt, nzski.com

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

YHA Queenstown Central 48A Shotover Street. 03 442 7400, yha.co.nz

Dart River Safaris Jetboating wilderness tours, 0800 327 8538, dartriver.co.nz

NZONE Skydive Skydive from 15,000ft. 35 Shotover St, 03 442 5867, nzone.biz

Queenstown Rafting Raft the Shotiver, Kawarau and Landsborough rivers. 35 Shotover St. 03 442 9792 rafting.co.nz

Scallywags Travellers’ Guesthouse (BBH) 27 Lomond Crescent. 03 442 7083, bbh.co.nz

Awesome Foursome Bungy (Nevis – 134m), jetboat, helicopter, whitewater rafting, combos.co.nz

Milford Sound Flightseeing Scenic flights to Milford Sound, 0800 65 65 01, realjourneys.co.nz

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 862 Kinloch Rd, 03 442 4900, kinlochlodge.co.nz

ARROWTOWN Poplar Lodge 4 Merioneth St, 03 442 1466,

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SOUTHISLAND poplarlodge.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 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 Bob & Maxine’s (BBH) 20 Paton Place, 03 931 3161, bbh.co.za Rosie’s Backpacker Homestay (BBH) 23 Tom Plato Drive, Lake Te Anau, 03 249 8431, rosiesbackpackers.co.nz Te Anau Lakefront Backpackers 48/50 Lakefront Dr, 03 249 7713, teanaubackpackers.co.za Steamers Beach Backpackers 77 Manapouri- Te Anau Hwy, 03 249 7737, smarturl.it/steamersbeach 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, tawakidive.co.nz

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 DO Real Journeys 0800 656 501, realjourneys.co.nz Great Sights On and under the water, 03 442 9445 greatsights.co.nz Milford Sound Underwater Observatory Discover a coral reef beneath Milford Sound, 03 249 9442 Milford Sound Cruise & Observatory Visit 0800 656 501

BOOK NOW! 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. 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, freestone.co.nz Manapouri Lakeview Motor Inn 68 Cathedral Drive, 03 249 6652, manapouri.co.nz Possum Lodge 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

Milford Wanderer Cruises Day and overnight options with kayaking, etc. Coach connections, 0800 656 501, realjourneys.co.nz

The southernmost city in New Zealand, Invercargill is a farmingorientated community with a pleasant collection of parks and museums to keep you busy.

Tawaki Dive See Fiordland’s unique marine life on a day-trip with two guided dives in Milford Sound. Rental gear available, max four

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 Bunkers Backpackers (BBH) 13 Argyle St, Halfmoon Bay, Stweart Island, 027 738 1796 bunkersbackpackers.co.nz 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 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. 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,

@tnt_downunder 0800 356 563, elmwildlifetours.co.nz

CATLINS STAY Wrights Mill Lodge 865 Tahakopa Valley, 03 204 8424 Lazy Dolphin 529 Curio Bay Rd, 03 246 8579. lazydolphinlodge.co.nz Cedar Tree Lodge 36 Hosptial Road, 027 611 7932. goldbox.catering@gmail.com Happy Inn Backpackers 11 Shakespeare St, 03 417 4161. happyinn@clear.net.nz Fernlea Backpackers (VIP) Moana St, Kaka Point, 03 412 8834 The Split Level (BBH) 9 Waikawa Rd, Owaka, 03 415 8304, thesplitlevel.co.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, catlins-surf.co.nz/736.html Thomas Catlins Lodge & Holiday Park, 8 Clark St, Owaka 03 415 8333, thomascatlins.co.nz Wright’s Mill Lodge 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 Chalet Backpackers (BBH) 296 High St, 03 479 2075 chaletbackpackers.co.nz Dunedin Central Backpackers (BBH) 243 Moray Pl, 03 477 9985, centralbackpackers.co.nz Pavlova Palace (BBH)

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74 Elm Row, 03 477 34728 pavlovapalace.co.nz Hogwartz (BBH) 277 Rattray St, 03 474 1487, hogwartz.co.nz Kiwis Nest (BBH) 597 George St, 03 471 9540, kiwisnest.co.nz Leviathan Hotel 27 Queens Gardens, 0800 773 773, dunedinhotel.co.nz Manor House 28 Manor Place, 03 477 0484, manorhousebackpackers.co.nz On Top Backpackers (BBH) 12 Filleul St, cnr Moray Pl, 03 477 6121, ontopbackpackers.co.nz Pennys Backpackers (BBH) 6 Stafford St, 03 477 6027, pennys.co.nz Next Stop Backpackers 2 View St, 03 477 0477, nextstop.co.nz YHA Dunedin, Stafford Gables 71 Stafford St, 03 474 1919, yha.co.nz

DUNEDIN DO

Baldwin Street In the Guinness Book of Records as the steepest street in the world. Cadbury World 280 Cumberland St, 0800 223 2879, cadbury.co.nz Cosmic Corner Funk Store Check out the legal highs and chat to the staff about where to go for parties, events and the beautiful parts of New Zealand. 355 George St, 03 479 2949 Dunedin Public Art Gallery 30 The Octagon, 03 474 3240, dpagmail@dcc.govt.nz Oamaru Blue Penguin Colony View blue penguins just metres away every evening at dusk. Waterfront Rd, 1-1/2 hrs north of Dunedin, 03 433 1195, penguins.co.nz Parachute Experience Skydiving from a great height 03 489 4113, dropzone.com Sinclair Wetlands and Educational Centre

Freedom or conducted walks over 5km of walkways. Backpacker and camping facilities. Rapid no 854 Clarendon/Berwick Rd (signposted on SH1 30km south of Dunedin), 03 486 2654 Speights Brewery Heritage Tours 03 477 7697 speights.co.nz Royal Albatross Centre 03 478 0499, albatross.org.nz

OTAGO PENINSULA The Otago Peninsula is a beautiful stretch of rugged coast, home to a fascinating collection of rare and native birds such as the albatross and yellow-eyed penguin. Billy Browns (BBH) 423 Aramoana Rd, Port Chalmers, 03 472 8323, billybrowns.co.nz McFarmers Backpackers 774 Portobello Rd, Portobello, 02 5206 0640, mcfarmers@xtra.co.nz Pinot Lodge 102 Barry Avenue, Cromwell, Fiordland 03 445 1260, pinotlodgenz.com

southernmost vineyards, situated on the Earnscleugh Rd. grasshopperrock.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

ROXBURGH Villa Rose Backpackers 79 Scotland St, 03 446 8761, villarose.co.nz

OAMARU

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.

A charming little place noted for both its interesting collection of white granular limestone buildings and its large penguin population.

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

Oamaru Blue Penguin Colony View blue penguins at dusk. Waterfront Rd, 03 433 1195, penguins.co.nz

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

IN THE SPOTLIGHT

Visitor Information Centre Thames St, 03 434 1656

Ahuriri Backpackers 5 Clay Cliffs Lane 03 438 9451 ahuririmotels.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 Lodge (BBH) 468 Beach Rd, 03 434 8115, 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, swaggersbackpackers.co.nz

Photo: Tourism New Zealand

MOERAKI DUNEDIN New Zealand’s oldest city Dunedin, located in the South Island’s south-east, has strong connections to Scotland, thanks to early settlers turning up in the area after finding the Australian climate too humid for their liking. The cooler coastal weather reminded them of home and even today this town is full of shops and reminders of the Scottish culture. Even the name ‘Dunedin’ comes from the Gaelic word for Edinburgh. These days the city is a big student town and has an abundance of fresh seafood and local wildlife, with sea lions, fur seals and penguins all being easily spotted along the Otago coastline. It’s also home to one of New Zealand’s most famous beers – Speights, which is an icon of the South Island. Visitors can tour the brewery – which is still standing on the original 1876 site – and enjoy one (or many) of the award-winning varieties of beers being produced. dunedinnz.com South Island

Just 30km south of Oamaru lies a remarkable collection of eerie giant boulders. Olive Grove Lodge (BBH) 2328 SH1, Waianakarua, 03 439 5830, olivebranch.co.nz The Dubliner 105 Tiverton St, Palmerston, 03 465 8123

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Pacific win

Breaking up a flight home with sandy beaches, gushing waterfalls and lagoons sure beats the airport bar, so schedule in a stopover on the islands of the South Pacific...

ig trips don’t come much bigger than this. We’re talking about the South Pacific – the vast ocean that seems to cover pretty much half the globe, dotted with islands. Because of its vastness, it is almost impossible to summarise it in just a few words other than to say it’s on almost every bucket list, conjuring up images of smiling hula girls swaying their hips in the sunshine, and barefoot islanders living a carefree lifestyle. Fiji and The Cook Islands have long been popular stopovers on the way to or from Australia and New Zealand, but travellers haven’t explored much further for one reason:

the price tag. But, while exploring this vast expanse may have previously been out of the reach of mere mortals, now you can afford it. A quick web search will throw up hundreds of deals; you simply have to choose the right destination and right resort. And, as always, we’re here to help... The Cook Islands The Cook Islands are definitely the most affordable destination in the South Pacific. A heavily New Zealandinfluenced culture and an inviting array of natural wonders including coral lagoons, caves, volcanic mountains and lush forests, make it a must-do. There are 15 Cook Islands, all

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BIGTRIP

halfway between New Zealand and Hawaii, and they are each very distinct from one another, with your typical luxury resort experiences, forest hiking, and even some deserted islands on offer. What to do: Rarotonga’s Muri Lagoon is a must, as is snorkelling on the Aitutaki (One Foot Island) atoll – which has had a human presence since AD900. For a taste of the islands’ village life, tour the pretty Mauke. A raised coral atoll, its central area lies only about 30 metres above sea level and is full of rich, tropical vegetation. We also recommend exploring the caves of Mangaia, including the burial chamber of the ruler Te Rua Rere.

Food and drink: There are three main ethnic groups in the South Pacific – Polynesian, Melanesian and Micronesian – so the type of cuisine you get depends on which island you visit. Some 90% of Cook Islanders are of either full or partial descent of the native Polynesian people, so for a taste of Polynesian cuisine enjoy one of the islands’ classic pork-based Umukai feasts (which involves baking food in an underground oven) along with a performance of local traditional dance. Matu rori (sea cucumber, served with lemon and cooked green banana) is another speciality – a sort of spaghetti from the sea. Where to party: When it comes to partying it has to be TNTDOWNUNDER.COM

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Spend your time on and in the crystal-clear waters Rarotonga. Friday is the big night on the island when the clubs and bars can stay open until 2am. But one of the most fun ways of exploring is to take an organised nightlife tour, stopping off at many of the venues around the island. It is a fun party on wheels that gets you mixing with locals and fellow tourists over a drink or on the dance floor. And no one has to be the designated driver because you get dropped off at your accommodation at the end of the night. Nice. (enjoycookislands.com) Where to stay: There are a number of cheap hostels on Rarotonga including Backpackers International Hostel (backpackersinternational.com), which is only a minute’s walk from the beach with dorms from NZ$18 per person for six nights or more. They have a complimentary international airport pick up, too. Fiji What Fiji has going for it is that it’s an exciting place wrapped up in a peaceful package. And when we say package, we’re not referring to the all-inclusive honeymoon and my-first-family-holiday packages that Fiji has been known for in the past. Sure it’s got the lagoons, the beaches and the laid-back vibe, but the adventurous side of this South Pacific beauty is emerging like a curious puppy. Today, it combines a reasonable price tag with extreme sights, flavours and experiences unlike anything you’ll find anywhere else. What to do: Plant yourself in Nadi and you’ll be greeted by traditional Fijian dancers, ukulele players and adorned with leis – cliché sure, but still awesome. You’ll also be immersed in heady city experiences, including Indian cuisine and a bustling street life. Sign on for a jungle cruise and you’ll experience an entirely different Fiji, including some of the 84

South Pacific is ripe with snorkelling and diving opps

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world’s most colourful and entertaining bird-watching. Food and drink: Fiji is home to two distinct cuisines – Fijian (obviously) and Indian. Traditional Fijian dishes include kakoda, a marinated and steamed local fish, and rourou, a dish made from local taro leaf. One of the most popular traditional meals is lovo, the collective name for a feast of fish, meat, vegetables and fruit cooked in covered pits. Seafood also plays a massive part on Fijian menus, thanks to the surrounding South Pacific waters packed with marine life. Whole grilled snapper and tender tuna steaks are good value, delicious and sure to be as fresh as a daisy. When it comes to drink, Fijians aren’t big on booze, but one beverage they savour is kava, made from the pulverised root of a pepper shrub mixed with water. To first-time drinkers, it tastes a little like muddy water and can make your tongue and the back of your throat numb. It is usually consumed at a special kava ceremony, where a traditional dish (sometimes a turtle shell) is filled with the brew and passed around the circle of drinkers. Pssst, it won’t give you crazy visions, despite what you may have read. Where to stay: With so much to explore, Fiji is perfect for backpackers and there is plenty of budget accommodation on offer from Rendezvous Fiji (rendezvousfiji.com), which will set you back about $16 a night, and Bamboo Beach Hostel (bamboobackpackers.hostel.com) which is just $9 per night.

BIGTRIP

FANCY A SURF? We have the low down on Fiji’s best waves Fiji has a variety of waves on offer that cater to all surfing levels so that no one misses out. “It’s game on and any and all should come to Fiji and get a piece,” says Adam Yared, founder of Malolo Surf Company. With the passing of the Fijian surf decree, surfers can now have access to all the breaks throughout Fiji. The surf in Fiji is split up into the areas of Malolo, Coral Coast, Southern Lau and Kadavu, plus the Northern Lau and Great Sea Reef. Peak season for surfing is in the dry season months from May to October, with typical Southern Hemisphere swells. However, great waves can be surfed all year round. Here are some particularly good surf breaks that you might not have heard of: FRIGATE’S PASSAGE: Located on the Coral Coast, Frigate’s hugs the south-western corner of Viti Levu’s coastline. It’s a fun wave for mal riders (long boarders) and shortboarders in 2-4 feet, and really turns on in 4-6 feet with heavy barrels that are equal in power and speed to Cloudbreak over 6 feet. SIGATOKA RIVERMOUTH: South of Nadi, this is the only beach break in the Fijian island chain. Sigatoka is a fun left and right beach break that, with the right sand bank, can create an epic lefthander. It’s a great beach break for learners up to advanced surfers. DAKU: In the southern Lau area, this is a fun and playful wave and is best in east and north winds and any south and east swells. The wave has many sections and can barrel on a good day. To find out more about all of what Fiji’s surf has to offer, walk into a local surf shop or check out one of the several informative print and online surf guides available. Better yet, just go to Fiji and have a go!

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Vanuatu Vanuatu was colonised by the French but most residents speak English (they also colonised bits of it) as well as Bislama, a Creole mixture of English, French and various dialects of Vanuatu. Efate is the main island, but there are other more remote ones to explore. One of the most popular trips from Efate is Tanna, where volcano enthusiasts can get up close to Yasur, the live volcano. It’s a 40-minute flight from Efate that can be done as a day-trip, but a stay-over is recommended as the volcano is spectacular at nightfall. What to do: The town of Port Vila is basic but the markets are fabulous and full of luscious organic produce as well as the obligatory sarongs and souvenirs, and racks and racks of ‘designer bags’ in a variety of colours. But be warned: the local goods may not pass customs inspection and you’ll have to kiss your grass skirt and coconut shell bikini ensemble goodbye at the airport. Head to the very pretty Mele Cascades, where for a small fee a guide will take you up a hill through the rainforest to the famous waterfall. Also check out the Botanical Gardens. Food and drink: Worryingly, cannibalism was once practised in Vanuatu, with the last case of it reported as recently as the 1960s. Thankfully the food’s improved since then. Imagine if you will the best of French cuisine, prepared with fresh organic produce, with a bit of a Pacific Island twist (coconut, yams and sweet potato for example). But it comes at a price. The big resorts have expensive restaurants, but it’s worth splurging on a fabulous meal every now and then. Cheaper restaurants can be found in the main town. Where to stay: At certain times of the year you can get affordable package deals in one of the big ritzy resorts that include airfares, accommodation and some meals. Check well-known travel sites. Samoa Home to chiefs, churches and spectacular sights, Samoa encapsulates the beauty of simple living and family values. It has it all. Postcard-perfect beaches, vibrant culture and cheap prices. But we think it’s fair to say that, keen rugby fans aside, most people know almost nothing about the 10 islands that comprise Samoa. For years now, Fiji, with its desert island beaches and cheap prices, has been the go-to destination for travellers looking for an idyllic, budget-friendly South Pacific getaway. But times, they are a-changing and the Samoans are going all out to attract backpackers to their fair shores. Historically more aligned with the US, the powersthat-be have decided it’s time to make a seismic shift and buddy up with their culturally and geographically closer neighbours, Australia and New Zealand. It started a few years back when drivers woke up one day to suddenly discover they had to drive on the left, rather than righthand side of the road. The next major step happened when Samoa redrew the International Date Line, placing themselves on the Aussie, rather than American, side. The impact of this for people wanting a short break is huge, as Samoa is no longer a disorienting 21 hours behind Sydney, 86

Volcanic rocks of Samoa but now a much simpler three hours ahead. What to do: The best place to start a Samoan adventure is on the main island of Upolu, home to the capital Apia, which is more an amalgamation of sprawling villages than a bustling metropolis. Jump on the ferry to its bigger but quieter neighbour Savai’I, a rainforest-clad isle where beaches sparkle on one side and volcanic peaks rise in the distance on the other. We recommend a visit to Lotofaga village where you will find the massive natural swimming pool, To Sua Trench. Climb the ladder and dive into the turquoise waters below. Also be sure to stop by the Alofaaga Blowholes where, on a good day, the water powers through the lava tubes, bursting more than 10 metres into the air. Like everything in Samoa, they come with a good story, with the blowholes symbolising an old Tongan princess who died in Samoa when the country was a Tongan colony. Now, whenever the blowholes, er, blow, it is said to be a sign of her king sending his love. Aww. Food and drink: Apia provides the island’s biggest spread of restaurants, bars and nightclubs. In terms of food, you’ll be munching on plenty of taro leaves, cooked green bananas and raw fish. You’ll also probably have lu’au, one of Samoa’s best-known dishes made from every-present taro leaves, onion and coconut cream, cooked in an umu, which is a traditional Samoan oven. In terms of drink, coconut juice and other freshly squeezed fruits are cheap and common in Samoa. We advise drinking bottled water too so don’t get tempted by the tap. Where to stay: For a budget night in Samoa, you can stay in what they call beach fales, which are small huts on the beach with a ceiling but no walls. They sound bad right? They’re not. Trust us. Plenty can be booked online including Jane’s Beach Fales (samoa.travel/accommodation/a29/Janes-BeachFales), which cost 80 Samoan Tala, about AU$36.

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! a l u B

PaRadise tHat dOesnt COst tHe eaRtH! Small and with a friendly atmosphere, the Funky Fish offers you that tropical Fiji island vacation you will never forget. A small and friendly island resort with something for everyone! Situated on the majestic Fiji island of Malolo in the heart of the Mamanuca group just 22 kms from Fiji’s international airport. The resort offers dramatic sunsets, is close to Fiji’s great surf breaks, and delivers a very special experience swimming and snorkeling in crystal clear waters on the surrounding coral reefs, unforgettable! Accommodation to suit everyone! The Funky Fish Beach Resort has several different accommodation options: Premium beachfront 1 bedroom and 2 bedroom bure’s. Dormitory accommodation and private bedrooms. ALL MEALS, LOCAL BEERS & WINE IS INCLUDED IN THE ACCOMODATION RATES. Great food can be enjoyed at our fully licensed restaurant. We serve fresh seafood, Fijian and European dishes. Our bar restaurant offers breathtaking views over this spectacular tropical playground. The resort delivers a very special experience and is ideal for surfers,kite surfers and divers. We also offer an extensive mix of activities. We are located 5 minutes from the world class surf breaks Wilkes, Cloud Break restaurants, swimming pools, Namotu left to name a few.

Surf! Dive! Kite Surf! Hike! Fish! Snorkel! Swim! Fish Feed or simply stay and play.

www.funkyfishresort.com Funky Fish Beach Resort - Malolo Island, Fiji Ph:00 679 6282333 Email enquiries@funkyfishresort.com

Views, Vistas and Hideaways... Experience the magic of Beachcomber Island just once and you’ll want to come back year after glorious year; it does that to people. Come and join us on this “dream island” and share memories that will stay with you forever. Situated on a picturesque marine sanctuary in the heart of the Mamanuca Islands, Beachcomber Island Resort is just 19km from Nadi International, Fiji’s National airport. It’s an island that’s easy to get to yet so very hard to leave! Our resort is unique, spectacular and fun – there’s nowhere else quite like it in Fiji. We look forward to welcoming you into our Beachcomber family to share the experience of a lifetime!

www.beachcomberfiji.com Beachcomber Island Resort.Vuda Rd Vuda, Fiji Islands Ph: 00 679 666 1500 Email info@beachcomberfiji.com.fj

TNTDOWNUNDER.COM Contact the australian sales Office for more information on these properties: email – info@travreps.com.au or call (07) 3415 3970. REVISEDBEACHCOMBER.indd 1 01_749p 88pp.indd 87

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OZCAREERS

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You can work it out It’s a new year, and many of us are thinking about freshening up our careers and finding a job we really love – but where to start? There are some people who seem to have been clear about what their career was going to be almost from the moment they left their mother’s womb – and they somehow miraculously achieve it. Then there are others – the vast majority of us – who have to work it out as they go along. This process can be very stressful, with pressure from family, friends and even the media to find a “proper job”. Here, business coach Patrick Donoghugh (inheritancecoaching.com) shares his tips for working out what you want:

Don’t worry Don’t worry if your dream job isn’t immediately obvious to you. As a starting point, write down things that you enjoy in life, then write down things that you think you’re good at. You’ll probably find there’s a fair bit of overlap. Now try to think how you might get paid do some of those things.

What do you want out of it? What is this job going to give to you? Think about how much you need to get paid, but don’t dismiss a job on the basis of money, just be aware of the figure that you need to get to. Also, beyond the financial, determine what else you’d like from your new career, e.g. flexible working hours etc.

Be selfish Remember, this is about establishing what you want to do, not what other people think you should do. The two can get confused at times.

It doesn’t have to be forever Don’t stress about the long-term prospects of your chosen career: the age of the golden watch for 25 years’ service are over. Just look at this as a 88

process of exploration, about yourself and what is in the outside world.

Create a list of companies When you’ve arrived at an idea for a career, draw up a list of who you’d want to work for; are there companies in that sector that you really admire? If you’re going to work for yourself, draw up a list of potential clients; who might buy your product or service?

Exploit your network You’ll know more people than you realise, and they’ll know more people than you realise. Unashamedly lean on friends, family, former colleagues; anyone who might think remotely well of you to gain introductions in the area you want to work in. If that doesn’t turn anything up, approach people from your list of companies directly to see if they’ll meet for coffee to give you some advice. Even strangers will be more willing to help than you might think.

Build a good online presence Google your name and see what comes up. This’ll be the first stop for most prospective employers/customers. Create a LinkedIn account, if you don’t have one already. If you do have one, update it and populate it fully.

Don’t be put off If you get a few knock-backs or rejections, it can be easy to get a little despondent. Try not to take a rebuff personally; treat it as some information that you didn’t have before. With that information in mind, would that alter your approach next time round?

Have a deadline To avoid drifting, set yourself a reasonable deadline to get your job. If the deadline arrives and you haven’t got there, don’t feel you’ve failed. Use your deadline as a bearing to think about what you might do next. Don’t be concerned about changing your objective based on what you’ve learnt.

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